bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of overactive bladder and C‐reactive protein levels. Results from the Boston Area Community Health (BACH) Survey
Authors: Kupelian Varant , Rosen Raymond C. , Roehrborn Claus G. , Tyagi Pradeep , Chancellor Michael B. , McKinlay John B.
Published: December 2011

Study Type – Aetiology (cohort)

Level of Evidence 3a

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Evidence of chronic inflammation in benign prostatic hyperplasia suggests a role of inflammation in the development of lower urinary tract symptoms. However, few studies have investigated the association of inflammation and overactive bladder in both men and women. Results of this population‐based study show a consistent association of increased C‐reactive protein levels with overactive bladder in both men and women. These results support the hypothesized role of inflammation in the development of overactive bladder.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between overactive bladder (OAB) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) in a population‐based sample of men and women.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Epidemiological survey of urological symptoms among men and women aged 30–79 years. A multi‐stage stratified cluster design was used to randomly sample 5503 adults from the city of Boston. Analyses were conducted on 1898 men and 1854 women with available CRP levels.

The International Continence Society defines OAB as ‘Urgency with or without urge incontinence, usually with frequency and nocturia.’ OAB was defined as: (1) urgency, (2) urgency with frequency, and (3) urgency with frequency and nocturia.

Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of the CRP and OAB association were estimated using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Prevalence of OAB increased with CRP levels in both men and women.

In men, adjusted ORs (95% CI) per log10(CRP) levels were 1.90 (1.26–2.86) with OAB defined as urgency, 1.65 (1.06–2.58) with OAB defined as urgency and frequency, and 1.92 (1.13–3.28) with OAB defined as urgency, frequency and nocturia.

The association was more modest in women with ORs (95% CI) of 1.53 (1.07–2.18) for OAB as defined urgency, 1.51 (1.02–2.23) for OAB defined as urgency and frequency, and 1.34 (0.85–2.12) for OAB defined as urgency, frequency and nocturia.

CONCLUSIONS

Results show a consistent association of increasing CRP levels and OAB among both men and women.

These results support our hypothesis for the role of inflammation in the development of OAB and a possible role for anti‐inflammatory agents in its treatment.
Sexual dysfunction in women with ketamine cystitis: a case‐control study
Authors: Jang Mei‐Yu , Long Cheng‐Yu , Chuang Shu‐Mien , Huang Chun‐Hsiung , Lin Hung‐Yu , Wu Wen‐Jen , Juan Yung‐Shun
Published: December 2011

Study Type – Prevalence (case control)

Level of Evidence 3a

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Extreme ketamine abuse not only damages the bladder and results in bladder wall fibrosis, but also causes bladder mucosa ulcers. Women with the presence of LUTs and chronic pelvic pain appear to show an impact on sexual functions.

Increasing problems of ketamine‐associated cystitis are being seen in daily clinical practice. The present case–control study investigated clinical symptom severity and sexual dysfunction in women with KC. The present study showed, with the exception of the sexual desire domain of the female sexual function index, that patients with KC scored lower on all domains compared to controls. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was high in patients with KC.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a case–control study evaluating clinical symptom severity and sexual dysfunction in women with ketamine cystitis (KC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In total, 29 patients with KC and 27 controls completed the symptoms survey.

Participants completed a visual pelvic pain analogue scale, an O'Leary‐Sant Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index and Problem Index questionnaire, a Female Sexual Function Index, and a short form of the Chinese Health Questionnaire‐12.

RESULTS

Both the Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index and Interstitial Cystitis Problem Index scores were significantly higher in patients with KC compared to controls (P < 0.001).

The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was high in patients with KC.

There was a difference in total adjusted Female Sexual Function Index scores between the patients with KC and controls: mean (sd) total Female Sexual Function Index score 17.65 (6.15) for KC cases vs 25.87 (4.16) for controls (P < 0.001).

Except for the sexual desire domain of female sexual dysfunction, patients with KC scored lower on all domains compared to controls.

There was no significant difference between patients with KC and controls with respect to mental health as evaluated by the Chinese Health Questionnaire‐12.

CONCLUSIONS

Sexual dysfunction and KC symptoms severely impacted on quality of life.

Mental health had no significant difference between patients with KC and controls.
The Principled Case for Employing Private Military and Security Companies in Interventions for Human Rights Purposes
Authors: BAKER DEANE‐PETER , PATTISON JAMES
Published: December 2011

abstract

The possibility of using private military and security companies to bolster the capacity to undertake intervention for human rights purposes (humanitarian intervention and peacekeeping) has been increasingly debated. The focus of such discussions has, however, largely been on practical issues and the contingent problems posed by private force. By contrast, this article considers the principled case for privatising humanitarian intervention. It focuses on two central issues. First, does outsourcing humanitarian intervention to private military and security companies pose some fundamental, deeper problems in this context, such as an abdication of a state's duties? Second, on the other hand, is there a case for preferring these firms to other, state‐based agents of humanitarian intervention? For instance, given a state's duties to their own military personnel, should the use of private military and security contractors be preferred to regular soldiers for humanitarian intervention?
Understanding selection for long necks in different taxa
Authors: Wilkinson David M. , Ruxton Graeme D.
Published: December 2011

There has been recent discussion about the evolutionary pressures underlying the long necks of extant giraffes and extinct sauropod dinosaurs. Here we summarise these debates and place them in a wider taxonomic context. We consider the evolution of long necks across a wide range of (both living and extinct) taxa and ask whether there has been a common selective factor or whether each case has a separate explanation. We conclude that in most cases long necks can be explained in terms of foraging requirements, and that alternative explanations in terms of sexual selection, thermoregulation and predation pressure are not as well supported. Specifically, in giraffe, tortoises, and perhaps sauropods there is likely to have been selection for high browsing. It the last case there may also have been selection for reaching otherwise inaccessible aquatic plants or for increasing the energetic efficiency of low browsing. For camels, wading birds and ratites, original selection was likely for increased leg length, with correlated selection for a longer neck to allow feeding and drinking at or near substrate level. For fish‐eating long‐necked birds and plesiosaurs a small head at the end of a long neck allows fast acceleration of the mouth to allow capture of elusive prey. A swan's long neck allows access to benthic vegetation, for vultures the long neck allows reaching deep into a carcass. Geese may be an unusual case where anti‐predator vigilance is important, but so may be energetically efficient low browsing. The one group for which we feel unable to draw firm conclusions are the pterosaurs, this is in keeping with the current uncertainty about the biology of this group. Despite foraging emerging as a dominant theme in selection for long necks, for almost every taxonomic group we have identified useful empirical work that would increase understanding of the selective costs and benefits of a long neck.
Maturation of prepulse inhibition (PPI) in childhood
Authors: Gebhardt J. , Schulz‐Juergensen S. , Eggert P.
Published: December 2011

It is known that sensorimotor gating measured by the prepulse inhibition of the startle reflex (PPI) matures during childhood. Since certain disorders in children, for example, enuresis, show a significant loss in PPI, the PPI as a tool for investigating brainstem reflex control mechanism gains in importance. Therefore, it is crucial to know the natural course of PPI maturation in childhood. A total of 122 healthy children aged from 3–10 years and 10 healthy adults were examined. PPI was initiated by a 120 ms and a 60 ms prepulse and was measured by the EMG of M. orbicularis oculi. For the respective prepulse intervals, the PPI level in each age group increased from 3 to 9 or 10 years and showed a similar course. The findings confirm and extend knowledge about the maturation of PPI during childhood and emphasize the importance of age‐dependent standard values when investigating PPI in children.
Spatiotemporal and frequency domain analysis of auditory paired stimuli processing in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder with psychosis
Authors: Hamm Jordan P. , Ethridge Lauren E. , Shapiro John R. , Stevens Michael C. , Boutros Nashaat N. , Summerfelt Ann T. , Keshavan Matcheri S. , Sweeney John A. , Pearlson Godfrey , Tamminga Carol A. , Thaker Gunvant , Clementz Brett A.
Published: December 2011

Individuals with schizophrenia (SZ) or bipolar disorder with psychosis (BPP) may share neurophysiological abnormalities as measured in auditory paired‐stimuli paradigms with electroencephalography (EEG). Such investigations have been limited, however, by quantifying only event‐related potential peaks and/or broad frequency bands at limited scalp locations without considering possible mediating factors (e.g., baseline differences). Results from 64‐sensor EEG collected in 180 age‐ and gender‐matched participants reveal (i) accentuated prestimulus gamma oscillations and (ii) reduced P2 amplitudes and theta/alpha oscillations to S1 among participants with both SZ and BPP. Conversely, (iii) N1s in those with SZ to S1 were reduced compared to healthy volunteers and those with BPP, whereas (iv) beta range oscillations 200–300 ms following S2 were accentuated in those with BPP but not those with SZ. Results reveal a pattern of both unique and shared neurophysiological phenotypes occurring within major psychotic diagnoses.
FROM RAW IRON TO SEMI‐PRODUCT: QUALITY AND CIRCULATION OF MATERIALS DURING THE IRON AGE IN FRANCE*
Authors: BERRANGER M. , FLUZIN P.
Published: December 2011

Iron raw materials provide a privileged source of information for the reconstruction of metallurgical techniques and the circulation of iron products. An interdisciplinary approach, combining archaeological and archaeometrical studies of the exemplars known from the French Iron Age, has been undertaken. This enables a new typological classification to be produced that demonstrates a correlation between morphological and structural properties. Through comparison with chronological data, it is possible to propose a reconstruction of the organization of production according to three main periods, which are characterized by the circulation of different qualities of iron and by diverse levels of artisanal specialization.
Effective Foreign Aid Following Civil War: The Nonstrategic‐Desperation Hypothesis
Authors: Girod Desha M.
Published: December 2011

When does aid foster development after civil war? A testable model is needed to account for the uneven outcomes in postconflict development. This article proposes and empirically tests the novel nonstrategic‐desperation hypothesis, an explanation based on the varied incentives that fragile postconflict governments face when confronted with donor development goals. Paradoxically, incentives to meet development goals only exist when donors have little strategic interest in the recipients and when recipients lack income from resource rents and are therefore desperate for income. Ten‐year data on infant mortality changes following civil wars ending 1970–96 and a variety of robustness checks support the hypothesis. By focusing on how income sources constrain the choices of aid recipients, and how these constraints can provide incentives to meet donor development goals, the nonstrategic‐desperation hypothesis explains how the good use of aid can take place following civil war, when institutions are weak.
Mitral Valve Restoration in a Case of Destructive Caseous Annular Calcification Using a MitroFix Hybrid Prosthesis
Authors: Khoshbin Espeed , Patrick Mark , Hooper Timothy L.
Published: December 2011

The MitroFix device is a novel prosthesis consisting of an annuloplasty ring incorporating a rigid, porcine pericardium‐lined posterior leafl et in the “closed” position. This device was used in a case of caseous mitral annular calcifi cation masquerading as an intracardiac tumor and was associated with severe valvular regurgitation due to loss of leafl et coaptation. Threedimensional transesophageal echocardiography gives an accurate and comprehensive assessment of the postoperative hybrid repair. The repair involved resection of the posterior leafl et masquerading as an intracardiac tumor but preserving the posterior mitral valve. This prosthesis restored the coaptation and competence of the mitral valve.
Relation between serum bilirubin levels ≥450 μmol/L and bilirubin encephalopathy; a Danish population‐based study
Authors: Ebbesen Finn , Bjerre Jesper V , Vandborg Pernille K
Published: December 2011

Aim:  Describe the relation between levels of total serum bilirubin (TsB) ≥450 μmol/L and acute intermediate, acute advanced and chronic bilirubin encephalopathy.

Material and methods:  All infants born at gestational age ≥35 weeks in Denmark between 2000 and 2007 with a TsB ≥450 μmol/L according to the national laboratory information system. Infants diagnosed with bilirubin encephalopathy were found in the Danish National Registry of Patients.

Results:  502 766 infants at gestational age ≥35 weeks were identified. Two hundred twenty‐four developed a TsB ≥450 μmol/L, equivalent to an incidence of 45/100 000/year, and it increased during the period. Incidence of infants with peak TsB of 450–499, 500–599 and 600–1000 μmol/L were 29.6, 12.7 and 2.2 per 100 000, respectively. Three infants had acute advanced bilirubin encephalopathy and got severe sequelae, whereas the two infants with acute intermediate encephalopathy developed normally. Their peak TsB was ≥544 μmol/L. Having a peak TsB 600–1000 μmol/L, the risk of acute advanced and chronic bilirubin encephalopathy was 27% (95% CI 6;61), and the incidence of these conditions was 0.6 (95% CI 0.1;1.7) per 100 000.

Conclusion:  The incidence of infants with TsB ≥450 μmol/L was 45/100 000/year. Infants with a TsB ≥600 μmol/L had a substantial risk of developing acute advanced and chronic bilirubin encephalopathy, and the incidence of these conditions was 0.6 per 100 000.
World Health Organization (WHO) infant and young child feeding indicators: associations with growth measures in 14 low‐income countries
Authors: Marriott Bernadette P. , White Alan , Hadden Louise , Davies Jayne C. , Wallingford John C.
Published: December 2011

Eight World Health Organization (WHO) feeding indicators (FIs) and Demographic and Health Survey data for children <24 months were used to assess the relationship of child feeding with stunting and underweight in 14 poor countries. Also assessed were the correlations of FI with country gross national income (GNI). Prevalence of underweight and stunting increased with age and ≥50% of 12–23‐month children were stunted. About 66% of babies received solids by sixth to eighth months; 91% were still breastfeeding through months 12–15. Approximately half of the children were fed with complementary foods at the recommended daily frequency, but <25% met food diversity recommendations. GNI was negatively correlated with a breastfeeding index (P < 0.01) but not with other age‐appropriate FI. Regression modelling indicated a significant association between early initiation of breastfeeding and a reduction in risk of underweight (P < 0.05), but a higher risk of underweight for continued breastfeeding at 12–15 months (P < 0.001). For infants 6–8 months, consumption of solid foods was associated with significantly lower risk of both stunting and underweight (P < 0.001), as was meeting WHO guidance for minimum acceptable diet, iron‐rich foods (IRF) and dietary diversity (P < 0.001); desired feeding frequency was only associated with lower risk of underweight (P < 0.05). Timely solid food introduction, dietary diversity and IRF were associated with reduced probability of underweight and stunting that was further associated with maternal education (P < 0.001). These results identify FI associated with growth and reinforce maternal education as a variable to reduce risk of underweight and stunting in poor countries.
The Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Group Therapy for Depression: A Meta‐Analysis 2000–2010
Authors: Feng Chiueng‐Yi , Chu Hsin , Chen Chiung‐Hua , Chang Yu‐Shiun , Chen Tsai‐Hwei , Chou Yuan‐Hwa , Chang Yue‐Cune , Chou Kuei‐Ru
Published: December 2011

Objective: The goals of the meta‐analysis were to investigate the overall effectiveness of cognitive behavioral group therapy (CBGT) for depression and relapse prevention in depression from 2000 to 2010, and to investigate how the variables (episode, residual symptoms, group size, control group, group manual, therapist experience, therapy frequency, session length, and take‐home assignment) of a CBGT study could affect the effect size.

Method: This study collected actual study designs sought of CBGT for depression published from 2000 to 2010. These studies were then cross‐referenced using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) with the following keywords: group therapy, cognitive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral group therapy, psychotherapy, depression, relapse, and recurrence. The quality of the studies was evaluated using Cochrane Collaboration Guidelines. The effect size of CBGT on depression and relapse prevention in depression used the formula devised by Hedges and Olkin (1985).

Results: The study investigated the results of 32 studies on the effect of CBGT for depression. The CBGT had an immediate (g=−0.40) and continuous effect over 6 months (g=−0.38), but no continuous effect after 6 months (g=−0.06). The CBGT lowered the relapse rate of depression (RD = 0.16). Variables significantly different from each other in terms of immediate effect were: CBGT versus usual care, therapy sessions lasting longer than 1 hour, and take‐home assignments. Preintervention severity of depression and patient turnover rate were found to be significantly related to the size of the immediate effect. The relapse rate after 6 months was significantly related only to “participants have no residual symptoms/participants did not mention residual symptoms.”

Conclusions: Researchers and clinicians should take note that CBGT had a moderate effect on the level of depression and a small effect on the relapse rate of depression. The results of this study suggest that the patient should receive a course of therapy at least every 6 months.
A Modeling Study for Structure Features of β‐N‐acetyl‐D‐hexosaminidase from Ostrinia furnacalis and its Novel Inhibitor Allosamidin: Species Selectivity and Multi‐Target Characteristics
Authors: Wang Yanli , Liu Tian , Yang Qing , Li Zhong , Qian Xuhong
Published: December 2011

Insect β‐N‐acetyl‐D‐hexosaminidase, a chitin degrading enzyme, is physiologically important during the unique life cycle of the insect. OfHex1, a β‐N‐acetyl‐D‐hexosaminidase from the insect, Ostrinia furna, which was obtained by our laboratory (Gen Bank No.: ABI81756.1), was studied by molecular modeling as well as by molecular docking with its inhibitor, allosamidin. 3D model of OfHex1 was built through the ligand‐supported homology modeling approach. The binding modes of its substrate and inhibitor were proposed through docking and cluster analysis. The pocket’s size and shape of OfHex1 differ from that of human β‐N‐acetyl‐D‐hexosaminidase, which determined that allosamidin can selectively inhibit OfHex1 instead of human β‐N‐acetyl‐D‐hexosaminidase. Moreover, the multi‐target characteristics of allosamidin that inhibit enzymes from different families, OfHex1 (EC 3.2.1.52; GH20) and chitinase (EC 3.2.1.14; GH18), were compared. The common −1/+1 sugar‐binding site of chitinase and OfHex1, and the −2/−3 sugar‐binding site in chitinase contribute to the binding of allosamidin. This work, at molecular level, proved that OfHex1 could be a potential species‐specific target for novel green pesticide design and also provide the possibility to develop allosamidin or its derivatives as a new type of insecticide to ‘hit two birds with one stone’, which maybe become a novel strategy in pest control.
The clinical significance of drug craving
Authors: Tiffany Stephen T. , Wray Jennifer M.
Published: December 2011

Although drug craving has received considerable research attention over the past several decades, to date there has been no systematic review of the general clinical significance of craving. This paper presents an overview of measurement issues of particular relevance to a consideration of use of craving in clinical settings. The paper then considers the relevance of craving across a broad array of clinical domains, including diagnosis, prognostic utility, craving as an outcome measure, and the potential value of craving as a direct target of intervention. The paper is both descriptive and prescriptive, informed by the current state of the science on craving with recommendations for the definition of craving, assessment practices, future research, and clinical applications. We conclude that craving has considerable utility for diagnosis and as a clinical outcome, and that findings from future research will likely expand the clinical potential of the craving construct in the domains of prognosis and craving as a treatment target.
Early panretinal photocoagulation for ERG‐verified ischaemic central retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Kjeka Ole , Jansson Ragnhild W. , Bredrup Cecilie , Krohn Jørgen
Published: December 2011

Purpose:  We have previously shown that photopic cone b‐wave implicit time ≥35.0 ms in 30 Hz flicker electroretinography (ERG) predicts ocular neovascularization (NV) in central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Here, we evaluate the effects of early panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) in patients with ERG‐verified ischaemic CRVO.

Methods:  Patients with CRVO, admitted to our department between 2000 and 2008, were classified as having ischaemic or non‐ischaemic CRVO based on the ERG‐results. In a first group of 71 patients, 18 patients had ischaemic CRVO and were assigned to standard treatment that is regular examinations and PRP as soon as NV was found. In a consecutive group of 65 patients, 18 patients with ischaemic CRVO received early PRP. In this group, ERG was performed on average 6 weeks after the first symptoms of CRVO. The patients underwent PRP as soon as possible after the ERG‐examination, and the treatment was completed within one to three sessions.

Results:  Twelve patients in the standard treatment group developed neovascular glaucoma during a mean period of 5 months after the CRVO. In the early treatment group, one patient developed subtle iris rubeosis 7 months after PRP. Otherwise, none of the patients showed any signs of ocular NV, and the intraocular pressure remained within normal range, without the necessity of supplementary medication, during a mean follow‐up of 41 months.

Conclusions:  This study indicates that ocular NV in patients with CRVO can be predicted by photopic 30 Hz flicker ERG and that early PRP in ERG‐verified ischaemic CRVO could be suggested as standard treatment.
Comparative study of cisplatin‐iodized oil suspension and emulsion for transcatheter arterial chemoembolization of rabbit VX2 liver tumors
Authors: Mine Takahiko , Murata Satoru , Ueda Tatsuo , Onozawa Shiro , Onda Munehiko , Naito Zenya , Kumita Shinichiro
Published: December 2011

Aim:  To evaluate the antitumor effects and hepatotoxicity of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) with cisplatin‐iodized oil suspension and emulsion in a rabbit tumor model.

Methods:  Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization was performed on 12 rabbits with hepatic VX2 tumors using a cisplatin suspension (1 mg/kg cisplatin and 0.1 mL/kg iodized oil, n = 6) or emulsion (1 mg/kg cisplatin, 0.1 mL/kg of iodized oil, and 0.1 mL/kg saline solution, n = 6). Time series changes in plasma platinum concentration were compared over 24 h. All rabbits were killed at 7 days after TACE, and the growth ratio and residual viable proportion of tumors were calculated on the basis of ultrasonographic and histopathological findings. Hepatotoxicity was also evaluated. Differences between the two groups were statistically assessed with the Mann–Whitney U‐test. The animal care committee of our institute approved this study.

Results:  Plasma platinum concentrations were significantly higher in the suspension group than in the emulsion group at 0.5–24 h after TACE (P < 0.05). Growth ratios (−24.6 ± 9.98% vs. 21.4 ± 8.87%, respectively; P = 0.004) and residual viable proportions of tumors (25.8 ± 5.02% vs. 51.1 ± 11.4%, respectively; P = 0.009) were significantly lower in the suspension group than in the emulsion group. Hepatotoxicity was transient in all rabbits.

Conclusion:  Cisplatin‐iodized oil suspensions facilitated the slow release of cisplatin at the tumor border. A suspension is preferable to an emulsion for drug delivery and the antitumor effect during the treatment of VX2 liver tumors with TACE.
Geology and impact features of Vargeão Dome, southern Brazil
Authors: CRÓSTA Alvaro P. , KAZZUO‐VIEIRA César , PITARELLO Lidia , KOEBERL Christian , KENKMANN Thomas
Published: December 2011

Abstract– Vargeão Dome (southern Brazil) is a circular feature formed in lava flows of the Lower Cretaceous Serra Geral Formation and in sandstones of the Paraná Basin. Even though its impact origin was already proposed in the 1980s, little information about its geological and impact features is available in the literature. The structure has a rim‐rim diameter of approximately 12 km and comprises several ring‐like concentric features with multiple concentric lineaments. The presence of a central uplift is suggested by the occurrence of deformed sandstone strata of the Botucatu and Pirambóia formations. We present the morphological/structural characteristics of Vargeão Dome, characterize the different rock types that occur in its interior, mainly brecciated volcanic rocks (BVR) of the Serra Geral Formation, and discuss the deformation and shock features in the volcanic rocks and in sandstones. These features comprise shatter cones in sandstone and basalt, as well as planar microstructures in quartz. A geochemical comparison of the target rock equivalents from outside the structure with the shocked rocks from its interior shows that both the BVRs and the brecciated sandstone have a composition largely similar to that of the corresponding unshocked lithologies. No traces of meteoritic material have been found so far. The results confirm the impact origin of Vargeão Dome, making it one of the largest among the rare impact craters in basaltic targets known on Earth.
Development of a Statistical Methodology for Gas Turbine Prognostics
Authors: Puggina Nicola , Venturini Mauro
Published: December 2011

To optimize both production and maintenance, from both a technical and an economical point of view, it would be advisable to predict the future health condition of a system and of its components, starting from field measurements taken in the past. For this purpose, this paper presents a methodology, based on the Monte Carlo statistical method, which aims to determine the future operating state of a gas turbine. The methodology allows the system future availability to be estimated, to support a prognostic process based on past historical data trends. One of the most innovative features is that the prognostic methodology can be applied to both global and local performance parameters, as, for instance, machine specific fuel consumption or local temperatures. First, the theoretical background for developing the prognostic methodology is outlined. Then, the procedure for implementing the methodology is developed and a simulation model is set up. Finally, different degradation-over-time scenarios for a gas turbine are simulated and a sensitivity analysis on methodology response is carried out, to assess the capability and the reliability of the prognostic methodology. The methodology proves robust and reliable, with a prediction error lower than 2%, for the availability associated with the next future data trend.
Fine-grained pitch processing of music and speech in congenital amusia
Authors: Tillmann Barbara , Rusconi Elena , Traube Caroline , Butterworth Brian , Umiltà Carlo , Peretz Isabelle
Published: December 2011

Congenital amusia is a lifelong disorder of music processing that has been ascribed to impaired pitch perception and memory. The present study tested a large group of amusics (n = 17) and provided evidence that their pitch deficit affects pitch processing in speech to a lesser extent: Fine-grained pitch discrimination was better in spoken syllables than in acoustically matched tones. Unlike amusics, control participants performed fine-grained pitch discrimination better for musical material than for verbal material. These findings suggest that pitch extraction can be influenced by the nature of the material (music vs speech), and that amusics’ pitch deficit is not restricted to musical material, but extends to segmented speech events.
The effect of nearby bubbles on array gain
Authors: Culver R. Lee , Park J. Daniel , Leighton Timothy G. , Coles David G. H.
Published: December 2011

The coherent processing of signals from multiple hydrophones in an array offers improvements in angular resolution and signal-to-noise ratio. When the array is steered in a particular direction, the signals arriving from that direction are added in phase, and any signals arriving from other directions are not. Array gain (AG) is a measure of how much the signal arriving from the steering direction is amplified relative to signals arriving from all other directions. The subject of this paper is the manner in which the AG of an acoustic array operating in water that contains air bubbles is affected by scattering from nearby bubbles. The effects of bubbles on acoustic attenuation and dispersion are considered separately from their effects on AG. Acoustic measurements made in bubbly water using the AB Wood tank at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research, University of Southampton, in June 2008 show that as bubble density increases, relative phase shifts in individual hydrophone signals increase and signal correlation among the hydrophones is reduced. A theory and numerical simulation linking bubble density at the hydrophone to the AG is in good agreement with the measurements up to the point where multiple scattering becomes important.
The Southern Ocean’s Role in Carbon Exchange During the Last Deglaciation
Authors: Burke Andrea , Robinson Laura F.
Published: December 2011

A Drop in the Ocean

The concentration of atmospheric CO
2
rose by ∼80 parts per million (ppm), from ∼190 to 270 ppm, during the last deglaciation. It is widely believed that the primary source of that CO
2
was the deep Southern Ocean.
Burke and Robinson
(p.
557
, published online 15 December) present a 25,000-year-long record of the radiocarbon content of deep-sea corals collected from the Southern Ocean, which shows evidence of the
14
C-depletion that must have accompanied CO
2
sequestration.
14
C depletion and ocean stratification ended between 15,000 and 14,000 years ago, in a manner consistent with the transfer of large amounts of CO
2
from the deep Southern Ocean to the atmosphere. The observed
14
C drop can explain the atmospheric CO
2
rise between 17,500 and 14,500 years ago, adding support to the existing model of deglacial CO
2
dynamics.
Forefront in the Elucidation of the Mechanism of High-Temperature Superconductivity
Authors: Uchida Shin-ichi
Published: December 2011

The mechanism underlying the high-temperature (T
c) superconductivity of copper oxides has remained unelucidated and is one of the most difficult challenges of physics remaining in the 21st century. Various types of advanced spectroscopy have been employed to clarify the mechanism, resulting in the advancement of these techniques. Although the mechanism has not yet been completely clarified, the pseudogap phase, which always accompanies a superconducting phase, is now being considered as an electron state that plays a key role in the clarification of superconductivity.
Soft X-ray Detection Performance of Superconducting Tunnel Junction Arrays with Asymmetric Tunnel Junction Layer Structure
Authors: Ukibe Masahiro , Shiki Shigetomo , Kitajima Yoshinori , Ohkubo Masataka
Published: December 2011

Superconducting tunnel junction (STJ) array detectors with an asymmetric tunnel junction layer structure have been fabricated for the soft X-ray region between 100 eV and 1 keV. The asymmetric layer design was effective in solving the problem of double peak response to monochromatic X-rays, which is commonly observed in STJ detectors. The sensitive area was patterned by a lift-off technique that ensured no contamination on the top Nb electrode surface. The performance of a 100-pixel STJ array detector was investigated through fluorescent X-ray analysis of oxides and nitrides for the energy region of the K-lines of oxygen, nitrogen, and boron. The STJ array detector exhibited a high energy resolution of <15 eV, which cannot be achieved by semiconductor detectors, and an energy nonlinearity of <1%. It was demonstrated that the performance is suitable for fluorescence-yield X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy for light trace elements.
Effect of High-Temperature Pregrowth Treatment on the Surface Morphology of GaInP Epilayers on Ge Grown by Metal–Organic Vapor-Phase Epitaxy
Authors: He Wei , Lu Shulong , Dong Jianrong , Zhao Yongming , Yang Hui
Published: December 2011

Surface morphologies of GaInP films grown on germanium (Ge) by metal–organic vapor-phase epitaxy (MOVPE) have been investigated for different pre-growth treatments. A high temperature pre-annealing to the Ge substrate results in a smooth surface of GaInP, while a surface degradation in the case of a low temperature annealing is obtained, which might come from an incomplete carbon and/or oxide desorption. An improved surface morphology of GaInP with silicon doping and with increasing Ge substrate misoriented angle was also observed, which indicates that the highly disordered GaInP film and the neat interface between Ge and GaInP were formed with the assistance of a high temperature pre-growth treatment.
Improvement of Electromagnetic Wave Absorption Ability by Reducing Impedance Oscillation Characteristics
Authors: Itoh Masahiro , Terada Masao , Sasada Masaaki , Machida Ken-ichi
Published: December 2011

Improvement of the electromagnetic wave absorption ability was examined from the electromagnetic point of view. The oscillation behavior in relation to incident impedance derived from a hyperbolic tangent function can be reduced by increasing the imaginary part, i.e., loss value, of permeability and/or permittivity owing to its mathematical characteristics. It was demonstrated that the electromagnetic wave absorption ability was obviously enhanced by inserting the lossy magnetic layer between the electromagnetic wave absorber and a reflector. The absorption ability was improved further by pilling the polyurethane foam plate having lower permittivity to provide -9.6 dB (ca. 89% absorption) for the frequency range above 0.75 GHz with a total absorber thickness of 15.15 mm.
Dielectric SiO2 Planarization Using MnO2 Slurry
Authors: Kishii Sadahiro , Nakamura Ko , Hanawa Kenzo , Watanabe Satoru , Arimoto Yoshihiro , Kurokawa Syuhei , Doi Toshiro K.
Published: December 2011

MnO2 slurry can polish SiO2 film faster and planarize wide feature steps (2 ×2 mm2) to a lower height than conventional silica slurry. A comparison of Gibbs free energies indicates that the MnO2 abrasive directly reacts on the SiO2 film. In post-Chemical mechanical polishing (CMP), the MnO2 abrasive can be completely removed by dipping it in mixed solutions of inorganic acids and H2O2 followed by scrubbing and dipping in HF solution. A comparison of Gibbs free energies clarifies that the MnO2 abrasive on the wafer is easily dissolved in a mixed solution of an inorganic acid and H2O2.
Spin Polarimetry and Magnetic Dichroism on a Buried Magnetic Layer Using Hard X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Stryganyuk Gregory , Kozina Xeniya , Fecher Gerhard H. , Ouardi Siham , Chadov Stanislav , Felser Claudia , Schönhense Gerd , Lushchyk Pavel , Oelsner Andreas , Bernhard Pasqual , Ikenaga Eiji , Sugiyama Takeharu , Sukegawa Hiroaki , Wen Zhenchao , Inomata Koichiro , Kobayashi Keisuke
Published: December 2011

The spin-resolved electronic structure of buried magnetic layers is studied by hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES) using a spin polarimeter in combination with a high-energy hemispherical electron analyzer at the high-brilliance BL47XU beamline (SPring-8, Japan). Spin-resolved photoelectron spectra are analyzed in comparison with the results of magnetic linear and circular dichroism in photoelectron emission in the case of buried Co2FeAl0.5Si0.5 layers. The relatively large inelastic mean free path (up to 20 nm) of fast photoelectrons enables us to extend the HAXPES technique with electron-spin polarimetry and to develop spin analysis techniques for buried magnetic multilayers and interfaces.
Activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ by rosiglitazone improves lipid homeostasis at the adipose tissue-liver axis in ethanol-fed mice
Authors: Sun Xiuhua , Tang Yunan , Tan Xiaobing , Li Qiong , Zhong Wei , Sun Xinguo , Jia Wei , McClain Craig J. , Zhou Zhanxiang
Published: December 2011

The development of alcohol-induced fatty liver is associated with a reduction of white adipose tissue (WAT). Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ prominently distributes in the WAT and plays a crucial role in maintaining adiposity. The present study investigated the effects of PPAR-γ activation by rosiglitazone on lipid homeostasis at the adipose tissue-liver axis. Adult C57BL/6 male mice were pair fed liquid diet containing ethanol or isocaloric maltose dextrin for 8 wk with or without rosiglitazone supplementation to ethanol-fed mice for the last 3 wk. Ethanol exposure downregulated adipose PPAR-γ gene and reduced the WAT mass in association with induction of inflammation, which was attenuated by rosiglitazone. Ethanol exposure stimulated lipolysis but reduced fatty acid uptake capacity in association with dysregulation of lipid metabolism genes. Rosiglitazone normalized adipose gene expression and corrected ethanol-induced lipid dyshomeostasis. Ethanol exposure induced steatosis and upregulated inflammatory genes in the liver, which were attenuated by rosiglitazone. Hepatic peroxisomal fatty acid β-oxidation was suppressed by ethanol in associated with inhibition of acyl-coenzyme A oxidase 1. Rosiglitazone elevated plasma adiponectin level and normalized peroxisomal fatty acid β-oxidation rate. However, rosiglitazone did not affect ethanol-reduced very low-density lipoprotein secretion from the liver. These results demonstrated that activation of PPAR-γ by rosiglitazone reverses ethanol-induced adipose dysfunction and lipid dyshomeostasis at the WAT-liver axis, thereby abrogating alcoholic fatty liver.
A novel pattern of longitudinal muscle contraction with subthreshold pharyngeal stimulus: a possible mechanism of lower esophageal sphincter relaxation
Authors: Leslie Eric , Bhargava Valmik , Mittal Ravinder K.
Published: December 2011

A subthreshold pharyngeal stimulus induces lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation and inhibits progression of ongoing peristaltic contraction in the esophagus. Recent studies show that longitudinal muscle contraction of the esophagus may play a role in LES relaxation. Our goal was to determine whether a subthreshold pharyngeal stimulus induces contraction of the longitudinal muscle of the esophagus and to determine the nature of this contraction. Studies were conducted in 16 healthy subjects. High resolution manometry (HRM) recorded pressures, and high frequency intraluminal ultrasound (HFIUS) images recorded longitudinal muscle contraction at various locations in the esophagus. Subthreshold pharyngeal stimulation was induced by injection of minute amounts of water in the pharynx. A subthreshold pharyngeal stimulus induced strong contraction and caudal descent of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) along with relaxation of the LES. HFIUS identified longitudinal muscle contraction of the proximal (3–5 cm below the UES) but not the distal esophagus. Pharyngeal stimulus, following a dry swallow, blocked the progression of dry swallow-induced peristalsis; this was also associated with UES contraction and descent along with the contraction of longitudinal muscle of the proximal esophagus. We identify a unique pattern of longitudinal muscle contraction of the proximal esophagus in response to subthreshold pharyngeal stimulus, which we propose may be responsible for relaxation of the distal esophagus and LES through the stretch sensitive activation of myenteric inhibitory motor neurons.
Right place, right time: the evolving role of herpesvirus infection as a “second hit” in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Kropski Jonathan A. , Lawson William E. , Blackwell Timothy S.
Published: December 2011

Over the course of the past decade, increasing evidence has implicated alveolar epithelial cell injury and dysfunction in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Genetic factors, cigarette smoking, and other environmental exposures have been identified as potential factors leading to a population of vulnerable alveolar epithelial cells. In addition, molecular techniques have demonstrated herpesviruses are commonly detectable in the lungs of patients with IPF, raising suspicion that, in the setting of a vulnerable alveolar epithelium, lytic (or latent) herpesvirus infection may act as a “second hit” leading to the development of pulmonary fibrosis. Intriguingly, in vivo modeling has shown that herpesvirus infection induces or worsens lung fibrosis when combined with immunodeficiency or other injurious stimuli. Here, we discuss potential mechanisms through which herpesvirus infection may contribute to the pathogenesis of IPF. Ultimately, antiviral therapy may hold promise for halting the progression of this deadly disease.
Supraspinal fatigue impedes recovery from a low-intensity sustained contraction in old adults
Authors: Yoon Tejin , Schlinder-Delap Bonnie , Keller Manda L. , Hunter Sandra K.
Published: December 2011

This study determined the contribution of supraspinal fatigue and contractile properties to the age difference in neuromuscular fatigue during and recovery from a low-intensity sustained contraction. Cortical stimulation was used to evoke measures of voluntary activation and muscle relaxation during and after a contraction sustained at 20% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) until task failure with elbow flexor muscles in 14 young adults (20.9 ± 3.6 yr, 7 men) and 14 old adults (71.6 ± 5.4 yr, 7 men). Old adults exhibited a longer time to task failure than the young adults (23.8 ± 9.0 vs. 11.5 ± 3.9 min, respectively, P < 0.001). The time to failure was associated with initial peak rates of relaxation of muscle fibers and pressor response ( P < 0.05). Increments in torque (superimposed twitch; SIT) generated by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) during brief MVCs, increased during the fatiguing contraction ( P < 0.001) and then decreased during recovery ( P = 0.02). The increase in the SIT was greater for the old adults than the young adults during the fatiguing contraction and recovery ( P < 0.05). Recovery of MVC torque was less for old than young adults at 10 min post-fatiguing contraction (75.1 ± 8.7 vs. 83.6 ± 7.8% of control MVC, respectively, P = 0.01) and was associated with the recovery of the SIT ( r = −0.59, r2= 0.35, P < 0.001). Motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitude and the silent period elicited during the fatiguing contraction increased less for old adults than young adults ( P < 0.05). The greater fatigue resistance with age during a low-intensity sustained contraction was attributable to mechanisms located within the muscle. Recovery of maximal strength after the low-intensity fatiguing contraction however, was impeded more for old adults than young because of greater supraspinal fatigue. Recovery of strength could be an important variable to consider in exercise prescription of old populations.
Simulated resistance training, but not alendronate, increases cortical bone formation and suppresses sclerostin during disuse
Authors: Macias B. R. , Swift J. M. , Nilsson M. I. , Hogan H. A. , Bouse S. D. , Bloomfield S. A.
Published: December 2011

Mechanical loading modulates the osteocyte-derived protein sclerostin, a potent inhibitor of bone formation. We hypothesized that simulated resistance training (SRT), combined with alendronate (ALEN) treatment, during hindlimb unloading (HU) would most effectively mitigate disuse-induced decrements in cortical bone geometry and formation rate (BFR). Sixty male, Sprague-Dawley rats (6-mo-old) were randomly assigned to either cage control (CC), HU, HU plus either ALEN (HU+ALEN), or SRT (HU+SRT), or combined ALEN and SRT (HU+SRT/ALEN) for 28 days. Computed tomography scans on days − 1 and 28 were taken at the middiaphyseal tibia. HU+SRT and HU+SRT/ALEN rats were subjected to muscle contractions once every 3 days during HU (4 sets of 5 repetitions; 1,000 ms isometric + 1,000 ms eccentric). The HU+ALEN and HU+SRT/ALEN rats received 10 μg/kg ALEN 3 times/wk. Compared with the CC animals, HU suppressed the normal slow growth-induced increases of cortical bone mineral content, cortical bone area, and polar cross-sectional moment of inertia; however, SRT during HU restored cortical bone growth. HU suppressed middiaphyseal tibia periosteal BFR by 56% vs. CC ( P < 0.05). However, SRT during HU restored BFR at both periosteal (to 2.6-fold higher than CC) and endocortical (14-fold higher than CC) surfaces ( P < 0.01). ALEN attenuated the SRT-induced BFR gains during HU. The proportion of sclerostin-positive osteocytes in cortical bone was significantly higher (+121% vs. CC) in the HU group; SRT during HU effectively suppressed the higher proportion of sclerostin-positive osteocytes. In conclusion, a minimum number of high-intensity muscle contractions, performed during disuse, restores cortical BFR and suppress unloading-induced increases in sclerostin-positive osteocytes.