bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Choices in Nuclear Warfighting
Authors: Schofield Julian
Published: September 2012

Two classroom simulations—SUPERPOWER CONFRONTATION and MULTIPOLAR ASIAN SIMULATION—are used to teach and test various aspects of the Borden versus Brodie debate on the Schelling versus Lanchester approach to nuclear conflict modeling and resolution. The author applies a Schelling test to segregate high from low empathic students, and assigns them to hard case positions in three simulations to test whether high empathy students can engage in tactic bargaining and whether low empathetic students are necessarily as escalation prone. He has a bipolar nuclear simulation that is an easy case for the Brodie set of assumptions about nuclear war, avoidance, and Schelling-esque tacit bargaining. He expects the system structure and high empathy leader selection to contain escalation, despite the temptation of relying on accelerated Single Integrated Operational Plan solutions and the counterincentive of diminished tacit bargaining through decapitation attacks. The second simulation is a multipolar nuclear simulation set in the near future of Asia, and emulates the Borden-esque logic of nuclear war as artillery exchanges, with a Lanchester square law logic encouraging rapid escalation, coupled with a selection for the most autistic leadership. The author expects rapid nuclear escalation under these structural and decision-making conditions. His conclusions are anecdotal, but seem to indicate, from student feedback during class discussions, that the failure to model fear may be a factor in undermining successful tacit bargaining by players, suggesting that Borden rather than Brodie better conceptualized nuclear conflict. Therefore, peace is about restraining war initiation, as there are great pressures for escalation once war is initiated.
Use of Specialty OB Consults During High-Risk Pregnancies in a Medicaid-Covered Population
Authors: Bronstein Janet M. , Ounpraseuth Songthip , Jonkman Jeffrey , Fletcher David , Nugent Richard R. , McGhee Judith , Lowery Curtis L.
Published: September 2012

This study examines the impact of a Medicaid-supported intervention (Antenatal and Neonatal Guidelines, Education and Learning System) to expand a high-risk obstetrics consulting service on the use of specialty consults between 2001 and 2006. Using a Medicaid claims-birth certificate data set, we find a decline over time in use of specialty consults for lower risk diagnoses and a shift to remote modalities for contact. Local physician participation in grand rounds via teleconference was associated both with specialty contact and use of remote modalities. Local physician use of a Call Center service was also associated with patient specialty contact. Expansion of telemedicine remote sites did not increase the likelihood of contact but was associated with the shift toward remote modalities. Specialty consult use and modality were influenced by the care context of the patient, particularly level of pregnancy risk, the specialty of the primary prenatal care provider, the timing of her prenatal care, and her ethnicity and education level.
Black Weekend
Authors: Bodroghkozy Aniko
Published: September 2012

This article reconstructs how Americans processed their experience of the assassination, mourning period, and funeral of John F. Kennedy over a four-day period in November 1963 as fundamentally a “television trauma.” Using viewer mail sent to NBC news anchors in the midst of the “Black Weekend,” as well as some surveys and interviews conducted at the time by social scientists, the article argues for the centrality of television to the experience. It also explores how the relative “newness” of the television phenomenon required Americans to grapple with the “uncanniness,” as well as the anguish, of what they were going through. The letters show viewers highly conscious of the medium and of television news personnel as workers in an era before television news had become so routinized and conventionalized as to be taken for granted and invisible as a medium.
Effects of TGF-β1 and VEGF-A transgenes on the osteogenic potential of bone marrow stromal cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Kuroda Shinji , Sumner Dale R , Virdi Amarjit S
Published: September 2012

An exogenous supply of growth factors and bioreplaceable scaffolds may help bone regeneration. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of TGF-β1 and VEGF-A transgenes on the osteogenic potential of bone marrow stromal cells. Rat bone marrow stromal cells were transfected with plasmids encoding mouse TGF-β1 and/or VEGF-A complementary DNAs and cultured for up to 28 days. Furthermore, collagen scaffolds carrying combinations of the plasmids-transfected cells were implanted subcutaneously in rats. The transgenes increased alkaline phosphatase activity, enhanced mineralized nodule formation, and elevated osteogenic gene expressions in vitro. In vivo, messenger RNA expression of osteogenic genes such as BMPs and Runx2 elevated higher by the transgenes. The data indicate that exogenous TGF-β1 and VEGF-A acted synergistically and could induce osteoblastic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells in both cell culture and an animal model. The results may provide valuable information to optimize protocols for transgene-and-cell-based tissue engineering.
Targeting JAK1/2 and mTOR in murine xenograft models of Ph-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Maude Shannon L. , Tasian Sarah K. , Vincent Tiffaney , Hall Junior W. , Sheen Cecilia , Roberts Kathryn G. , Seif Alix E. , Barrett David M. , Chen I-Ming , Collins J. Racquel , Mullighan Charles G. , Hunger Stephen P. , Harvey Richard C. , Willman Cheryl L. , Fridman Jordan S. , Loh Mignon L. , Grupp Stephan A. , Teachey David T.
Published: September 2012

CRLF2 rearrangements, JAK1/2 point mutations, and JAK2 fusion genes have been identified in Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)–like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a recently described subtype of pediatric high-risk B-precursor ALL (B-ALL) which exhibits a gene expression profile similar to Ph-positive ALL and has a poor prognosis. Hyperactive JAK/STAT and PI3K/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling is common in this high-risk subset. We, therefore, investigated the efficacy of the JAK inhibitor ruxolitinib and the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin in xenograft models of 8 pediatric B-ALL cases with and without CRLF2 and JAK genomic lesions. Ruxolitinib treatment yielded significantly lower peripheral blast counts compared with vehicle (P < .05) in 6 of 8 human leukemia xenografts and lower splenic blast counts (P < .05) in 8 of 8 samples. Enhanced responses to ruxolitinib were observed in samples harboring JAK-activating lesions and higher levels of STAT5 phosphorylation. Rapamycin controlled leukemia burden in all 8 B-ALL samples. Survival analysis of 2 representative B-ALL xenografts demonstrated prolonged survival with rapamycin treatment compared with vehicle (P < .01). These data demonstrate preclinical in vivo efficacy of ruxolitinib and rapamycin in this high-risk B-ALL subtype, for which novel treatments are urgently needed, and highlight the therapeutic potential of targeted kinase inhibition in Ph-like ALL.
HLA-haploidentical bone marrow transplantation with posttransplant cyclophosphamide expands the donor pool for patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Bolaños-Meade Javier , Fuchs Ephraim J. , Luznik Leo , Lanzkron Sophie M. , Gamper Christopher J. , Jones Richard J. , Brodsky Robert A.
Published: September 2012

Allogeneic marrow transplantation can cure sickle cell disease; however, HLA-matched donors are difficult to find, and the toxicities of myeloablative conditioning are prohibitive for most adults with this disease. We developed a nonmyeloablative bone marrow transplantation platform using related, including HLA-haploidentical, donors for patients with sickle cell disease. The regimen consisted of antithymocyte globulin, fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and total body irradiation, and graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis with posttransplantation high-dose cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil, and tacrolimus or sirolimus. After screening 19 patients, we transplanted 17, 14 from HLA-haploidentical and 3 from HLA-matched related donors. Eleven patients engrafted durably. With a median follow-up of 711 days (minimal follow up 224 days), 10 patients are asymptomatic, and 6 patients are off immunosupression. Only 1 patient developed skin-only acute graft-versus-host disease that resolved without any therapy; no mortality was seen. Nonmyeloablative conditioning with posttransplantation high-dose cyclophosphamide expands the donor pool, making marrow transplantation feasible for most patients with sickle cell disease, and is associated with a low risk of complications, even with haploidentical related donors. Graft failure, 43% in haploidentical pairs, remains a major obstacle but may be acceptable in a fraction of patients if the majority can be cured without serious toxicities.
Low tidal volume protects pulmonary vasomotor function from “second-hit” injury in acute lung injury rats
Authors: Pan Chun , Wang Jianqiang , Liu Wei , Liu Ling , Jing Liang , Yang Yi , Qiu Haibo
Published: September 2012

Background

Sepsis could induce indirect acute lung injury(ALI), and pulmonary vasomotor dysfunction. While low tidal volume is advocated for treatment of ALI patients. However, there is no evidence for low tidal volume that it could mitigate pulmonary vasomotor dysfunction in indirect ALI. Our study is to evaluate whether low tidal volume ventilation could protect the pulmonary vascular function in indirect lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced acute lung injury rats.

Methods

An indirect ALI rat model was induced by intravenous infusion of LPS. Thirty rats (n = 6 in each group) were randomly divided into (1)Control group; (2) ALI group; (3) LV group (tidal volume of 6mL/kg); (4) MV group (tidal volume of 12mL/kg); (5)VLV group (tidal volume of 3mL/kg). Mean arterial pressure and blood gas analysis were monitored every 2 hours throughout the experiment. Lung tissues and pulmonary artery rings were immediately harvested after the rats were bled to be killed to detect the contents of endothelin-1 (ET-1), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and TNF-α. Acetylcholine (Ache)-induced endothelium-dependent and sodium nitroprusside (SNP)-induced endothelium-independent relaxation of isolated pulmonary artery rings were measured by tensiometry.

Results

There was no difference within groups concerning blood pressure, PaCO2 and SNP-induced endothelium-independent relaxation of pulmonary artery rings. Compared with MV group, LV group significantly reduced LPS-induced expression of ET-1 level (113.79 ± 7.33pg/mL vs. 152.52 ± 12.75pg/mL, P < 0.05) and TNF-α (3305.09 ± 334.29pg/mL vs.4144.07 ± 608.21pg/mL, P < 0.05), increased the expression of eNOS (IOD: 15032.05 ± 5925.07 vs. 11454.32 ± 6035.47, P < 0.05). While Ache (10-7mol/L-10-4mol/L)-induced vasodilatation was ameliorated 30% more in LV group than in MV group.

Conclusions

Low tidal volume could protect the pulmonary vasodilative function during indirect ALI by decreasing vasoconstrictor factors, increasing expressions of vasodilator factors in pulmonary endothelial cells, and inhibiting inflammation injuries.
Common inversion polymorphism at 17q21.31 affects expression of multiple genes in tissue-specific manner
Authors: de Jong Simone , Chepelev Iouri , Janson Esther , Strengman Eric , van den Berg Leonard H , Veldink Jan H , Ophoff Roel A
Published: September 2012

Background

Chromosome 17q21.31 contains a common inversion polymorphism of approximately 900 kb in populations with European ancestry. Two divergentMAPThaplotypes, H1 and H2 are described with distinct linkage disequilibrium patterns across the region reflecting the inversion status at this locus. TheMAPTH1 haplotype has been associated with progressive supranuclear palsy, corticobasal degeneration, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, while the H2 is linked to recurrent deletion events associated with the 17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome, a disease characterized by developmental delay and learning disability.

Results

In this study, we investigate the effect of the inversion on the expression of genes in the 17q21.31 region. We find the expression of several genes in and at the borders of the inversion to be affected; specific either to whole blood or different regions of the human brain. The H1 haplotype was found to be associated with an increased expression ofLRRC37A4,PLEKH1MandMAPT. In contrast, a decreased expression ofMGC57346,LRRC37AandCRHR1was associated with H1.

Conclusions

Studies thus far have focused on the expression ofMAPTin the inversion region. However, our results show that the inversion status affects expression of other genes in the 17q21.31 region as well. Given the link between the inversion status and different neurological diseases, these genes may also be involved in disease pathology, possibly in a tissue-specific manner.
TMEM45A is essential for hypoxia-induced chemoresistance in breast and liver cancer cells
Authors: Flamant Lionel , Roegiers Edith , Pierre Michael , Hayez Aurélie , Sterpin Christiane , De Backer Olivier , Arnould Thierry , Poumay Yves , Michiels Carine
Published: September 2012

Background

Hypoxia is a common characteristic of solid tumors associated with reduced response to radio- and chemotherapy, therefore increasing the probability of tumor recurrence. The aim of this study was to identify new mechanisms responsible for hypoxia-induced resistance in breast cancer cells.

Methods

MDA-MB-231 and HepG2 cells were incubated in the presence of taxol or etoposide respectively under normoxia and hypoxia and apoptosis was analysed. A whole transcriptome analysis was performed in order to identify genes whose expression profile was correlated with apoptosis. The effect of gene invalidation using siRNA was studied on drug-induced apoptosis.

Results

MDA-MB-231 cells incubated in the presence of taxol were protected from apoptosis and cell death by hypoxia. We demonstrated that TMEM45A expression was associated with taxol resistance. TMEM45A expression was increased both in MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells and in HepG2 human hepatoma cells in conditions where protection of cells against apoptosis induced by chemotherapeutic agents was observed, i.e. under hypoxia in the presence of taxol or etoposide. Moreover, this resistance was suppressed by siRNA-mediated silencing of TMEM45A. Kaplan Meier curve showed an association between high TMEM45A expression and poor prognostic in breast cancer patients. Finally, TMEM45 is highly expressed in normal differentiated keratinocytes both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that this protein is involved in epithelial functions.

Conclusion

Altogether, our results unravel a new mechanism for taxol and etoposide resistance mediated by TMEM45A. High levels of TMEM45A expression in tumors may be indicative of potential resistance to cancer therapy, making TMEM45A an interesting biomarker for resistance.
In vivo functional expression of a screened P. aeruginosa chaperone-dependent lipase in E. coli
Authors: Wu Xiangping , You Pengyong , Su Erzheng , Xu Jingjing , Gao Bei , Wei Dongzhi
Published: September 2012

Background

Microbial lipases particularly Pseudomonas lipases are widely used for biotechnological applications. It is a meaningful work to design experiments to obtain high-level active lipase. There is a limiting factor for functional overexpression of the Pseudomonas lipase that a chaperone is necessary for effective folding. As previously reported, several methods had been used to resolve the problem. In this work, the lipase (LipA) and its chaperone (LipB) from a screened strain named AB which belongs to Pseudomonas aeruginosa were overexpressed in E. coli with two dual expression plasmid systems to enhance the production of the active lipase LipA without in vitro refolding process.

Results

In this work, we screened a lipase-produced strain named AB through the screening procedure, which was identified as P. aeruginosa on the basis of 16S rDNA. Genomic DNA obtained from the strain was used to isolate the gene lipA (936 bp) and lipase specific foldase gene lipB (1023 bp). One single expression plasmid system E. coli BL21/pET28a-lipAB and two dual expression plasmid systems E. coli BL21/pETDuet-lipA-lipB and E. coli BL21/pACYCDuet-lipA-lipB were successfully constructed. The lipase activities of the three expression systems were compared to choose the optimal expression method. Under the same cultured condition, the activities of the lipases expressed by E. coli BL21/pET28a-lipAB and E. coli BL21/pETDuet-lipA-lipB were 1300 U/L and 3200 U/L, respectively, while the activity of the lipase expressed by E. coli BL21/pACYCDuet-lipA-lipB was up to 8500 U/L. The lipase LipA had an optimal temperature of 30°C and an optimal pH of 9 with a strong pH tolerance. The active LipA could catalyze the reaction between fatty alcohols and fatty acids to generate fatty acid alkyl esters, which meant that LipA was able to catalyze esterification reaction. The most suitable fatty acid and alcohol substrates for esterification were octylic acid and hexanol, respectively.

Conclusions

The effect of different plasmid system on the active LipA expression was significantly different. pACYCDuet-lipA-lipB was more suitable for the expression of active LipA than pET28a-lipAB and pETDuet-lipA-lipB. The LipA showed obvious esterification activity and thus had potential biocatalytic applications. The expression method reported here can give reference for the expression of those enzymes that require chaperones.
Developing open source, self-contained disease surveillance software applications for use in resource-limited settings
Authors: Campbell Timothy C , Hodanics Charles J , Babin Steven M , Poku Adjoa M , Wojcik Richard A , Skora Joseph F , Coberly Jacqueline S , Mistry Zarna S , Lewis Sheri H
Published: September 2012

Background

Emerging public health threats often originate in resource-limited countries. In recognition of this fact, the World Health Organization issued revised International Health Regulations in 2005, which call for significantly increased reporting and response capabilities for all signatory nations. Electronic biosurveillance systems can improve the timeliness of public health data collection, aid in the early detection of and response to disease outbreaks, and enhance situational awareness.

Methods

As components of itsSuite for Automated Global bioSurveillance(SAGES) program, The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory developed two open-source, electronic biosurveillance systems for use in resource-limited settings. OpenESSENCE provides web-based data entry, analysis, and reporting. ESSENCE Desktop Edition provides similar capabilities for settings without internet access. Both systems may be configured to collect data using locally available cell phone technologies.

Results

ESSENCE Desktop Edition has been deployed for two years in the Republic of the Philippines. Local health clinics have rapidly adopted the new technology to provide daily reporting, thus eliminating the two-to-three week data lag of the previous paper-based system.

Conclusions

OpenESSENCE and ESSENCE Desktop Edition are two open-source software products with the capability of significantly improving disease surveillance in a wide range of resource-limited settings. These products, and other emerging surveillance technologies, can assist resource-limited countries compliance with the revised International Health Regulations.
Synthetic metabolic engineering-a novel, simple technology for designing a chimeric metabolic pathway
Authors: Ye Xiaoting , Honda Kohsuke , Sakai Takaaki , Okano Kenji , Omasa Takeshi , Hirota Ryuichi , Kuroda Akio , Ohtake Hisao
Published: September 2012

Background

The integration of biotechnology into chemical manufacturing has been recognized as a key technology to build a sustainable society. However, the practical applications of biocatalytic chemical conversions are often restricted due to their complexities involving the unpredictability of product yield and the troublesome controls in fermentation processes. One of the possible strategies to overcome these limitations is to eliminate the use of living microorganisms and to use only enzymes involved in the metabolic pathway. Use of recombinant mesophiles producing thermophilic enzymes at high temperature results in denaturation of indigenous proteins and elimination of undesired side reactions; consequently, highly selective and stable biocatalytic modules can be readily prepared. By rationally combining those modules together, artificial synthetic pathways specialized for chemical manufacturing could be designed and constructed.

Results

A chimeric Embden-Meyerhof (EM) pathway with balanced consumption and regeneration of ATP and ADP was constructed by using nine recombinantE. colistrains overproducing either one of the seven glycolytic enzymes ofThermus thermophilus, the cofactor-independent phosphoglycerate mutase ofPyrococcus horikoshii, or the non-phosphorylating glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase ofThermococcus kodakarensis. By coupling this pathway with theThermusmalate/lactate dehydrogenase, a stoichiometric amount of lactate was produced from glucose with an overall ATP turnover number of 31.

Conclusions

In this study, a novel and simple technology for flexible design of a bespoke metabolic pathway was developed. The concept has been testified via a non-ATP-forming chimeric EM pathway. We designated this technology as “synthetic metabolic engineering”. Our technology is, in principle, applicable to all thermophilic enzymes as long as they can be functionally expressed in the host, and thus would be potentially applicable to the biocatalytic manufacture of any chemicals or materials on demand.
Seismic processing, inversion, and AVO for gold exploration — Case study from Western Australia
Authors: Harrison Christopher B. , Urosevic Milovan
Published: September 2012

We investigate the potential of using high-resolution seismic methods for rock characterization and for targeting of gold deposits at the St. Ives gold camp. The application of seismic methods in hard-rock environments is challenged by complex structures, intrinsically low signal-to-noise ratio, regolith distortions, and access restrictions. If these issues can be addressed, then the unparalleled resolving power of reflection seismic can be used for mineral exploration. Appropriate spatial sampling of the wavefield combined with a survey geometry design and rigorous data processing to incorporate high fold and long offsets are necessary for creation of high-quality seismic images. In the hard-rock environment of Western Australia, accurate static corrections and multiphase velocity analysis are essential processing steps. This is followed by a rigorous quality control following each processing step. In such a case, we show that the role of reflection seismic could be lifted from mere identification of first-order structures to refined lithological analyses. Five deep boreholes with sonic logs and core sample test data were used to calibrate 2D seismic images. Despite seismic images were produced with relatively robust scaling it was possible to achieve reasonably high seismic-log correlation across three of the tightly spaced boreholes using a single composite wavelet. Amplitude-versus-offset (AVO) analysis indicated that gold-bearing structures may be related to elevated AVO effect and increased reflectivity. Consequently, partial stack analysis and acoustic and elastic inversions were conducted. These results and impedance crossplots were then evaluated against known gold occurrences. While still in the preliminary stages, hard-rock seismic imaging, inversion, and the application of AVO techniques indicated significant potential for targeting mineral reserves.
Targeting nickel sulfide deposits from 3D seismicreflection data at Kambalda, Australia
Authors: Urosevic Milovan , Bhat Ganesh , Grochau Marcos Hexsel
Published: September 2012

The greenstone belts of the Yilgarn Craton, Western Australia, host numerous Archaean gold, nickel, and iron ore deposits. These deposits typically are found in complex geologic structures hidden by a deep, heterogeneous, and often conductive regolith profile. This added complexity limits the depth of penetration for the potential field methods, but at the same time opens new revenue possibilities through the application of seismic methods. To explore this opportunity, we acquired high-resolution, experimental, 3D seismic data over Lake Lefroy in Kambalda, Western Australia. The main objective was to map exceptionally complex, deep structures associated with Kambalda dome. Survey design used 3D ray tracing to improve the distribution of the common reflection points across ultramafic-basalt contacts which host numerous small, high-grade nickel sulfide deposits. A combination of small explosive sources, high-shot/receiver density, and exceptionally good coupling over the ultrasalty lake surface produced seismic data of very high quality. Processing focused on computation of accurate static and dynamic corrections, whereas imaging was helped by the existing geologic model. Advanced volumetric interpretation supported by seismic forward modeling was used to guide mapping of the main lithological interfaces and structures. Forward modeling was carried out using rock properties obtained from ultrasonic measurements and one borehole, drilled in the proximity of the 3D seismic volume. Using this information, geometric constraints based on the typical size of ore bodies found in this mine and a simple window-based seismic attribute, several new targets were proposed. Three of these targets subsequently have been drilled and new zones of mineralization were intercepted. The case study presented demonstrates that high-quality, high-resolution, 3D seismic data combined with volumetric seismic interpretation could become a primary methodology for exploration of deep, small, massive sulfide deposits distributed across the Kambalda area.
An Approach to the Patient with Hirsutism
Authors: Loriaux D. Lynn
Published: September 2012

Hirsutism is a common endocrinological complaint. The causes of this complaint can vary from dissatisfaction with a normal pattern of hair growth on the one hand, to the first clinical manifestation of androgen overproduction by an adrenal adenocarcinoma on the other. The purpose of this short review is to reexamine the physiology of hair growth in normal women, identify the common abnormal patterns, and explore the differential diagnosis associated with each. An approach to working through the differential diagnosis will be described, and the commonly available treatment modalities for the various forms of hirsutism will be examined in terms of risk and benefit. The review is written from the point of view of the physician and the most efficient, cost effective, and safe clinical approach to the patient with the problem.
Tail Behavior of Randomly Weighted Sums
Authors: Hazra Rajat Subhra , Maulik Krishanu
Published: September 2012

Let {Xt, t ≥ 1} be a sequence of identically distributed and pairwise asymptotically independent random variables with regularly varying tails, and let {Θt, t ≥ 1} be a sequence of positive random variables independent of the sequence {Xt, t ≥ 1}. We will discuss the tail probabilities and almost-sure convergence of X(∞) = ∑t=1∞ΘtXt+ (where X+ = max{0, X}) and max1≤k<∞∑t=1kΘtXt, and provide some sufficient conditions motivated by Denisov and Zwart (2007) as alternatives to the usual moment conditions. In particular, we illustrate how the conditions on the slowly varying function involved in the tail probability of X1 help to control the tail behavior of the randomly weighted sums. Note that, the above results allow us to choose X1, X2,… as independent and identically distributed positive random variables. If X1 has a regularly varying tail of index -α, where α > 0, and if {Θt, t ≥ 1} is a positive sequence of random variables independent of {Xt}, then it is known – which can also be obtained from the sufficient conditions in this article – that, under some appropriate moment conditions on {Θt, t ≥ 1}, X(∞) = ∑t=1∞ΘtXt converges with probability 1 and has a regularly varying tail of index -α. Motivated by the converse problems in Jacobsen, Mikosch, Rosiński and Samorodnitsky (2009) we ask the question: if X(∞) has a regularly varying tail then does X1 have a regularly varying tail under some appropriate conditions? We obtain appropriate sufficient moment conditions, including the nonvanishing Mellin transform of ∑t=1∞Θt along some vertical line in the complex plane, so that the above is true. We also show that the condition on the Mellin transform cannot be dropped.
The Convergence Rate and Asymptotic Distribution of the Bootstrap Quantile Variance Estimator for Importance Sampling
Authors: Liu Jingchen , Yang Xuan
Published: September 2012

Importance sampling is a widely used variance reduction technique to compute sample quantiles such as value at risk. The variance of the weighted sample quantile estimator is usually a difficult quantity to compute. In this paper we present the exact convergence rate and asymptotic distributions of the bootstrap variance estimators for quantiles of weighted empirical distributions. Under regularity conditions, we show that the bootstrap variance estimator is asymptotically normal and has relative standard deviation of orderO(n−1/4).
First Passage Time of Skew Brownian Motion
Authors: Appuhamillage Thilanka , Sheldon Daniel
Published: September 2012

Nearly fifty years after the introduction of skew Brownian motion by Itô and McKean (1963), the first passage time distribution remains unknown. In this paper we first generalize results of Pitman and Yor (2011) and Csáki and Hu (2004) to derive formulae for the distribution of ranked excursion heights of skew Brownian motion, and then use these results to derive the first passage time distribution.
Exit Problems for Reflected Markov-Modulated Brownian Motion
Authors: Breuer Lothar
Published: September 2012

Let (X, J) denote a Markov-modulated Brownian motion (MMBM) and denote its supremum process by S. For some a > 0, let σ(a) denote the time when the reflected process Y := S - X first surpasses the level a. Furthermore, let σ−(a) denote the last time before σ(a) when X attains its current supremum. In this paper we shall derive the joint distribution of Sσ(a), σ−(a), and σ(a), where the latter two will be given in terms of their Laplace transforms. We also provide some remarks on scale matrices for MMBMs with strictly positive variation parameters. This extends recent results for spectrally negative Lévy processes to MMBMs. Due to well-known fluid embedding and state-dependent killing techniques, the analysis applies to Markov additive processes with phase-type jumps as well. The result is of interest to applications such as the dividend problem in insurance mathematics and the buffer overflow problem in queueing theory. Examples will be given for the former.
Distribution of Minimal Path Lengths when Edge Lengths are Independent Heterogeneous Exponential Random Variables
Authors: Ross Sheldon M.
Published: September 2012

We find the joint distribution of the lengths of the shortest paths from a specified node to all other nodes in a network in which the edge lengths are assumed to be independent heterogeneous exponential random variables. We also give an efficient way to simulate these lengths that requires only one generated exponential per node, as well as efficient procedures to use the simulated data to estimate quantities of the joint distribution.
Can we use medicolegal experience to improve management of patients with subarachnoid haemorrhage?
Authors: Buchanan I , Weatherby M , Weatherby S
Published: September 2012

Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) causes high mortality and morbidity. Learning lessons from litigation are a standard aspect of risk management in many industries. This study, therefore, examined data from the NHS Litigation Authority (NHSLA) on SAH to determine its usefulness in informing clinical risk management.

Under the Freedom of Information Act, the NHSLA database was interrogated for cases of SAH. Data were retrieved from 1995 to 2008.

Over this period, 126 cases relating to SAH were reported, 102 of which were closed. Damages were awarded in 64 cases, totalling £13.5 million. Seven claimants, associated with a high cost of continuing care, were awarded more than £0.5 million. Mean damages awarded were circa £211k. The majority of successful claims related to failure/delay to diagnose or treat.

On average, 10 cases of SAH were reported annually to the NHSLA. The rate of successful litigation was circa 1:769 presenting cases of SAH. Using lessons learned from litigation to manage risk requires good quality-supporting data. Information in the NHSLA database is limited and precludes detailed root-cause analysis. The initial concept of the NHSLA database as a claims management tool perhaps represents a lost opportunity.
Two-Variable Logic with Two Order Relations
Authors: Schwentick Thomas , Zeume Thomas
Published: September 2012

It is shown that the finite satisfiability problem for two-variable logic
over structures with one total preorder relation, its induced successor
relation, one linear order relation and some further unary relations is
EXPSPACE-complete. Actually, EXPSPACE-completeness already holds for structures
that do not include the induced successor relation. As a special case, the
EXPSPACE upper bound applies to two-variable logic over structures with two
linear orders. A further consequence is that satisfiability of two-variable
logic over data words with a linear order on positions and a linear order and
successor relation on the data is decidable in EXPSPACE. As a complementing
result, it is shown that over structures with two total preorder relations as
well as over structures with one total preorder and two linear order relations,
the finite satisfiability problem for two-variable logic is undecidable.
Deciding Kleene Algebras in Coq
Authors: Braibant Thomas , Pous Damien
Published: September 2012

We present a reflexive tactic for deciding the equational theory of Kleene
algebras in the Coq proof assistant. This tactic relies on a careful
implementation of efficient finite automata algorithms, so that it solves
casual equations instantaneously and properly scales to larger expressions. The
decision procedure is proved correct and complete: correctness is established
w.r.t. any model by formalising Kozen's initiality theorem; a counter-example
is returned when the given equation does not hold. The correctness proof is
challenging: it involves both a precise analysis of the underlying automata
algorithms and a lot of algebraic reasoning. In particular, we have to
formalise the theory of matrices over a Kleene algebra. We build on the recent
addition of firstorder typeclasses in Coq in order to work efficiently with the
involved algebraic structures.
On Global Types and Multi-Party Session
Authors: Castagna Giuseppe , Dezani-Ciancaglini Mariangiola , Padovani Luca
Published: September 2012

Global types are formal specifications that describe communication protocols
in terms of their global interactions. We present a new, streamlined language
of global types equipped with a trace-based semantics and whose features and
restrictions are semantically justified. The multi-party sessions obtained
projecting our global types enjoy a liveness property in addition to the
traditional progress and are shown to be sound and complete with respect to the
set of traces of the originating global type. Our notion of completeness is
less demanding than the classical ones, allowing a multi-party session to leave
out redundant traces from an underspecified global type. In addition to the
technical content, we discuss some limitations of our language of global types
and provide an extensive comparison with related specification languages
adopted in different communities.
Formal Theories for Linear Algebra
Authors: Cook Stephen A , Fontes Lila A
Published: September 2012

We introduce two-sorted theories in the style of [CN10] for the complexity
classes \oplusL and DET, whose complete problems include determinants over Z2
and Z, respectively. We then describe interpretations of Soltys' linear algebra
theory LAp over arbitrary integral domains, into each of our new theories. The
result shows equivalences of standard theorems of linear algebra over Z2 and Z
can be proved in the corresponding theory, but leaves open the interesting
question of whether the theorems themselves can be proved.
Preservation of Strong Normalisation modulo permutations for the structural lambda-calculus
Authors: Accattoli Beniamino , Kesner Delia
Published: September 2012

Inspired by a recent graphical formalism for lambda-calculus based on linear logic technology, we introduce an untyped structural lambda-calculus, called lambda j, which combines actions at a distance with exponential rules decomposing the substitution by means of weakening, contraction and derelicition. First, we prove some fundamental properties of lambda j such as confluence and preservation of beta-strong normalisation. Second, we add a strong bisimulation to lambda j by means of an equational theory which captures in particular Regnier's sigma-equivalence. We then complete this bisimulation with two more equations for (de)composition of substitutions and we prove that the resulting calculus still preserves beta-strong normalization. Finally, we discuss some consequences of our results.
Ground interpolation for the theory of equality
Authors: Fuchs Alexander , Goel Amit , Grundy Jim , Krstić Sava , Tinelli Cesare
Published: September 2012

Theory interpolation has found several successful applications in model
checking. We present a novel method for computing interpolants for ground
formulas in the theory of equality. The method produces interpolants from
colored congruence graphs representing derivations in that theory. These graphs
can be produced by conventional congruence closure algorithms in a
straightforward manner. By working with graphs, rather than at the level of
individual proof steps, we are able to derive interpolants that are pleasingly
simple (conjunctions of Horn clauses) and smaller than those generated by other
tools. Our interpolation method can be seen as a theory-specific implementation
of a cooperative interpolation game between two provers. We present a generic
version of the interpolation game, parametrized by the theory T, and define a
general method to extract runs of the game from proofs in T and then generate
interpolants from these runs.
Absorbing Subalgebras, Cyclic Terms, and the Constraint Satisfaction Problem
Authors: Barto Libor , Kozik Marcin
Published: September 2012

The Algebraic Dichotomy Conjecture states that the Constraint Satisfaction
Problem over a fixed template is solvable in polynomial time if the algebra of
polymorphisms associated to the template lies in a Taylor variety, and is
NP-complete otherwise. This paper provides two new characterizations of
finitely generated Taylor varieties. The first characterization is using
absorbing subalgebras and the second one cyclic terms. These new conditions
allow us to reprove the conjecture of Bang-Jensen and Hell (proved by the
authors) and the characterization of locally finite Taylor varieties using weak
near-unanimity terms (proved by McKenzie and Mar\'oti) in an elementary and
self-contained way.
The Effect on Implant Fixation of Soaking Tricalcium Phosphate Granules in Bisphosphonate
Authors: Jakobsen Thomas , Baas Jørgen , Bechtold Joan E , Elmengaard Brian , Søballe Kjeld
Published: September 2012

The use of bone grafting is a well-established way to enhance initial implant fixation in situations with reduced bone stock. Ceramic bone substitutes are inferior alternatives to autogenous or allogeneic bone graft. Improvement of bone graft substitutes is needed. We investigated whether biomechanical implant fixation and osseointegration of experimental implant grafted with β-TCP granules (Conduit) could be improved by soaking the β-TCP granules in bisphosphonate (zoledronate).

In 10 dogs, a pair of titanium coated implants surrounded by a 2.5 mm gap was inserted into the proximal part of each tibia. The gap was grafted with β-TCP granules either soaked with zoledronate or saline. At 12 weeks, the implants were evaluated with biomechanical push-out test and histomorphometrical analysis.

We found that bisphosphonate increased one of the three biomechanical parameters, but found no difference in the amount of new bone or β-TCP granules between the two treatment groups.

This study indicates that local treatment of β-TCP granules with zoledronate not only has the potential to increase implant fixation but also calls for further experimental research in order to optimize the dose of zoledronate.
Tartrate-Resistant Acid Phosphatase 5b is a Useful Serum Marker for Diagnosis and Recurrence Detection of Giant Cell Tumor of Bone
Authors: Shinozaki Tetsuya , Saito Kenichi , Kobayashi Tsutomu , Yanagawa Takashi , Takagishi Kenji
Published: September 2012

Serum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP) 5b was investigated for use as a marker for diagnosis of giant cell tumor (GCT) of bone and for detection of its recurrence.

Four patients with GCT of bone who were initially referred to our hospital were classified as a primary group. Three patients who had local recurrence following curettage were classified as a local recurrence group. Five with no recurrence were classified as a no-recurrence group. Eighteen patients with primary and metastatic malignant bone tumors were also enrolled in the study as a control group. Serum TRACP 5b was measured before the biopsy in all patients and was measured periodically after the operation in patients with GCT of bone. Studentt-tests were used for statistical analyses.

TRACP 5b was greater than 1500 Um/dL in all primary group patients. Mean TRACP 5b values decreased gradually with post-operative time, showing lower values until local recurrence. The mean value of TRACP 5b of the local recurrence group (753 ± 68.7 mU/dL) was significantly higher than that of the no-recurrence group (340.6 ± 78.3 mU/dL). The mean value of TRACP 5b of the control group (466.9 ± 130.3 mU/dL) was much lower than that of the primary group and markedly lower than that of the local recurrence group. However, no significant difference was found between the no-recurrence group and the control group.

Serum TRACP 5b is a useful and convenient marker for diagnosing GCT of bone and for predicting its recurrence.
Genotypic specificity of some winter wheat traits and their effect on grain yield
Authors: Deletic Nebojsa , Stojkovic Slavisa , Gudzic Slavisa , Djuric Vladan , Aksic Miroljub
Published: September 2012

This paper presents the two year results of a study dealing with genotypic
specificity of some nitrogen accumulation parameters and yield components, as
well as their individual and joint influence on grain yield per plant, in
twenty Serbian winter wheat cultivars. There were significant differences
among the investigated cultivars regarding the all studied traits.
Coefficient of variation ranged from 6.81% for 1000 grain mass to 12.91% for
total nitrogen accumulation. Cluster analysis showed the studied genotypes
divided into two clusters, where larger one was further divided into several
smaller clusters. Good definition of clusters is a sign that these traits?
pattern is a distinctive property of a genotype. Multiple regression analysis
showed that the all four studied traits, as well as intercept value, had
significant effect on grain yield. The greatest effect was expressed by
number of grain per spike, where standardized regression coefficient (?) was
0.535. Adjusted R2 value (0.984) showed that 98.4% of the observed variation
in grain yield was explained by the studied four traits. When biological
yield is regarded, only total nitrogen accumulation and intercept value were
significant. ? value for total NA was 0.713, and adjusted R2 was 0.787.
A new experimental hybrid of cabbage suitable for early production
Authors: Cervenski Janko , Gvozdanovic-Varga Jelica , Bugarski Dusanka , Takac Adam , Glogovac Svetlana
Published: September 2012

The paper analyzes experimental hybrids of early cabbage developed at the
Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops in the previous period. The hybrids
were tested together for two years and then one (H17) was chosen and
submitted to the Variety Commission of the Republic of Serbia. In 2011, the
experimental hybrid H17 was officially released as an early cabbage hybrid
and registered under the name of NS Mendo F1. The hybrid had been developed
by crossing two early lines, one of which was sterile. It is characterized by
a short growing season - 65 days from transplanting to harvest. The head
weight ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 kg depending on the cultural practice applied.
The head is light green in color, sweet-tasting, and suitable for fresh
consumption. The hybrid?s traits that contributed significantly to the
formation of the first principal component were in fact those that the
breeders attach most importance to in their breeding programs. These are the
traits that directly influence the market value of a new hybrid and make a
given hybrid recognizable on the market. Most notable among such traits are
head weight and the weight of the useful part of the head.
The productive traits of different potato genotypes in mountainous region of Montenegro
Authors: Jovovic Zoran , Dolijanovic Zeljko , Kovacevic Dusan , Velimirovic Ana , Biberdzic Milan
Published: September 2012

The results of three-year study of productivity for the five leading potato
varieties in Montenegro: Riviera and Tresor (early), Kennebec (medium-early),
Aladin and Agria (medium-late) are presented. The research was conducted
during 2009, 2010 and 2011, on three highly diverse, related to the
pedological and climatic conditions, locations in mountainous region of
Montenegro: Niksic (800 m.a.s.l.), Kolasin (900 m.a.s.l.) and Zabljak (1450
m.a.s.l.). Field experiments were set up using standard methodology in random
block design in four repetitions. The analysis of variance suggested that
there were highly significant differences among genotypes (G), investigated
years (Y) and locations (L) for potato yield. Apart from individual influence
of the factors, their interactions (G x Y, G x L, Y x L, G x Y x L) were also
highly significant for investigated trait. In average the highest yield (28.9
t/ha) was established at Kolasin locality. The highest yield of all
investigated varieties and localities was measured at variety Agria
(30.0tha-1), while the lowest at Riviera (24.6 t ha-1). In this investigation
Agria variety was favourable for yield of potato tuber.
African American Leisure Space in Santa Monica: The Beach Sometimes Known As the "Inkwell," 1900s-1960s
Authors: Jefferson Alison Rose
Published: September 2012

A section of the Ocean Park beach in Santa Monica, Califoirnia, served as an African American leisure space during the era of segregation. This article identifies the discrimination that African Americans endured, but also celebrates both the local black community formation and the sociable relaxation that Los Angeles African Americans enjoyed at this site.
Josefina Fierro and the Sleepy Lagoon Crusade, 1942-1945
Authors: Larralde Carlos
Published: September 2012

Carlos Larralde depicts Josefina Fierro de Bright (1913-1998) as a colorful individual who was indispensable to the Sleepy Lagoon Defense Committee for her influential contacts, promotion, and fund-raising. Other scholars have accorded less prominence to Fierro and more to the late Alice McGrath (1917-2009). Larralde bases his account heavily on his notes of oral interviews with key figures, notes that are of limited accessibility to other researchers (though currently under discussion with the Huntington Library). In an Afterword, Dr. Larralde challenges the McGrath school and its sources. We hope, in publishing this article, to initiate a dialogue on the relative historiographical value of various categories of sources, (merry. ovnick@csun.edu)