bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semi‐Markov Models with Phase‐Type Sojourn Distributions
Authors: Titman Andrew C. , Sharples Linda D.
Published: November 2009

Summary Continuous‐time multistate models are widely used for categorical response data, particularly in the modeling of chronic diseases. However, inference is difficult when the process is only observed at discrete time points, with no information about the times or types of events between observation times, unless a Markov assumption is made. This assumption can be limiting as rates of transition between disease states might instead depend on the time since entry into the current state. Such a formulation results in a semi‐Markov model. We show that the computational problems associated with fitting semi‐Markov models to panel‐observed data can be alleviated by considering a class of semi‐Markov models with phase‐type sojourn distributions. This allows methods for hidden Markov models to be applied. In addition, extensions to models where observed states are subject to classification error are given. The methodology is demonstrated on a dataset relating to development of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome in post‐lung‐transplantation patients.
Pairwise Variable Selection for High‐Dimensional Model‐Based Clustering
Authors: Guo Jian , Levina Elizaveta , Michailidis George , Zhu Ji
Published: November 2009

Summary Variable selection for clustering is an important and challenging problem in high‐dimensional data analysis. Existing variable selection methods for model‐based clustering select informative variables in a “one‐in‐all‐out” manner; that is, a variable is selected if at least one pair of clusters is separable by this variable and removed if it cannot separate any of the clusters. In many applications, however, it is of interest to further establish exactly which clusters are separable by each informative variable. To address this question, we propose a pairwise variable selection method for high‐dimensional model‐based clustering. The method is based on a new pairwise penalty. Results on simulated and real data show that the new method performs better than alternative approaches that use ℓ1 and ℓ∞ penalties and offers better interpretation.
Association Tests for a Censored Quantitative Trait and Candidate Genes in Structured Populations with Multilevel Genetic Relatedness
Authors: Li Meijuan , Reilly Cavan , Hanson Tim
Published: November 2009

SummarySeveral statistical methods for detecting associations between quantitative traits and candidate genes in structured populations have been developed for fully observed phenotypes. However, many experiments are concerned with failure‐time phenotypes, which are usually subject to censoring. In this article, we propose statistical methods for detecting associations between a censored quantitative trait and candidate genes in structured populations with complex multiple levels of genetic relatedness among sampled individuals. The proposed methods correct for continuous population stratification using both population structure variables as covariates and the frailty terms attributable to kinship. The relationship between the time‐at‐onset data and genotypic scores at a candidate marker is modeled via a parametric Weibull frailty accelerated failure time (AFT) model as well as a semiparametric frailty AFT model, where the baseline survival function is flexibly modeled as a mixture of Polya trees centered around a family of Weibull distributions. For both parametric and semiparametric models, the frailties are modeled via an intrinsic Gaussian conditional autoregressive prior distribution with the kinship matrix being the adjacency matrix connecting subjects. Simulation studies and applications to the Arabidopsis thaliana line flowering time data sets demonstrated the advantage of the new proposals over existing approaches.
Modeling the Spatial and Temporal Dependence in fMRI Data
Authors: Derado Gordana , Bowman F. DuBois , Kilts Clinton D.
Published: November 2009

Summary Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data sets are large and characterized by complex dependence structures driven by highly sophisticated neurophysiology and aspects of the experimental designs. Typical analyses investigating task‐related changes in measured brain activity use a two‐stage procedure in which the first stage involves subject‐specific models and the second‐stage specifies group (or population) level parameters. Customarily, the first‐level accounts for temporal correlations between the serial scans acquired during one scanning session. Despite accounting for these correlations, fMRI studies often include multiple sessions and temporal dependencies may persist between the corresponding estimates of mean neural activity. Further, spatial correlations between brain activity measurements in different locations are often unaccounted for in statistical modeling and estimation. We propose a two‐stage, spatio‐temporal, autoregressive model that simultaneously accounts for spatial dependencies between voxels within the same anatomical region and for temporal dependencies between a subject's estimates from multiple sessions. We develop an algorithm that leverages the special structure of our covariance model, enabling relatively fast and efficient estimation. Using our proposed method, we analyze fMRI data from a study of inhibitory control in cocaine addicts.
A Combined Power M‐mode and Single Gate Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound Microemboli Signal Criteria for Improving Emboli Detection and Reliability
Authors: Choi Youngbin , Saqqur Maher , Asil Talip , Jin Albert , Stewart Eileen , Stephenson Caroline , Ibrahim Mohamad , Roy Jayanta , Boulanger Jean‐Martin , Coutts Shelagh , Khan Firosh , Demchuk Andrew M
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Single gate transcranial Doppler spectrogram (sgTCD) has a high variability in the detection of microembolic signals (MES), Adding Power M‐mode Doppler (PMD) information may improve MES detection. Our study's aim is to derive combined PMD/sgTCD microemboli criteria to overcome this limitation.

METHODS

Patients with symptomatic carotid disease were prospectively enrolled within 24 h of symptom onset underwent 1 hour TCD emboli monitoring. We reviewed disparity between PMD MES criteria and sgTCD MES criteria. We compared combined PMD/sgTCD criteria to sgTCD alone criteria by measuring the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

RESULTS

Of 92 patients, 28 patients had evidence of MES on sgTCD or PMD. Total MES count was 269 based on sgTCD criteria, and 326 based on combined PMD/sgTCD criteria (P= 0.005). Combined PMD/sgTCD criteria revealed 17 MESs (4.8%) based on sgTCD criteria to represent artifacts and 57 MESs (17.5%) not to be detected by sgTCD criteria. Overall ICC based on sgTCD criteria was 0.67 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.58–0.74]; however, introducing combined PMD/sgTCD criteria resulted in a significant increase in the ICC, 0.91 (95% CI: 0.88–0.93).

CONCLUSION

Our combined PMD/sgTCD criteria for MES appeared to improve the yield of MES detection. Reliability in MES detection interpretation was improved when combined PMD/sgTCD criteria was applied.
Factors influencing ridge alterations following immediate implant placement into extraction sockets
Authors: Ferrus Jorge , Cecchinato Denis , Pjetursson E. Bjarni , Lang Niklaus P. , Sanz Mariano , Lindhe Jan
Published: November 2009

Aim: To identify factors that may influence ridge alterations occurring at the buccal aspect of the extraction site following immediate implant placement.

Material and methods: In 93 subjects, single‐tooth implants were placed immediately into extraction sockets in the maxilla (tooth locations 15–25). A series of measurements describing the extraction site were made immediately after implant installation and at re‐entry, 16 weeks later. The implant sites were stratified according to four factors: (i) implant location (anterior/posterior), (ii) cause of tooth extraction (periodontitis/non‐periodontitis), (iii) thickness of the buccal bone walls (≤1/>1 mm) and (iv) the dimension of the horizontal buccal gap (≤1/>1 mm).

Results: (i) The location where the implant was placed (anterior/posterior) as well as (ii) the thickness of the buccal bone crest and (iii) the size of the horizontal buccal gap significantly influenced the amount of hard tissue alteration that occurred during a 4‐month period of healing. At implant sites in the premolar segment, the fill of the horizontal gap was more pronounced than in the incisor–canine segment, while the vertical crest reduction was significantly smaller. Furthermore, at sites where the buccal bone wall was thick (>1 mm) and where the horizontal gap was large (>1 mm), the degree of gap fill was substantial.

Conclusions: The thickness of the buccal bone wall as well as the dimension of the horizontal gap influenced the hard tissue alterations that occur following immediate implant placement into extraction sockets.

To cite this article:
 Ferrus J, Cecchinato D, Pjetursson EB, Lang NP, Sanz M, Lindhe J. Factors influencing ridge alterations following immediate implant placement into extraction sockets. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2009; 22–29.
The Vitality of Music in Mann and Joyce. Wagner in “Fullness of Harmony” and “Sirens”
Authors: Von Rohr Scaff Susan
Published: November 2009

Thomas Mann and James Joyce make music central to The Magic Mountain and Ulysses, and each devotes an episode to music, Mann in “Fullness of Harmony” and Joyce in “Sirens.” Both novelists portray music as a medium of healing from isolation, yet music may also lull the listener into listlessness and induce an unhealthy withdrawal from relationships and community. Though Richard Wagner’s music is absent from the scenes, both authors write in the shadow of Wagner, making their stories epic and mythical, and the Wagnerian theme of redemption through art stands behind their portrayal of music. Joyce and Mann mistrust Wagnerian grandeur, however, Joyce from distaste and Mann from his association of Wagner with decadence and immorality. Yet neither author allows Wagner’s sin of excess to destroy the restorative power of music, and song stimulates recovery from detachment for Hans Castorp and Leopold Bloom. Written just after the First World War in cognizance of the danger of nationalist movements, both novels mark a path between isolation and immoderate group identification, showing that music may instill desire for an appropriate sense of relationship, the basis for the characters’ love of life and redemption.
Grimmelshausen und Kafka. Zwei Modelle autobiographischer Inszenierung in Günter Grass’Beim Häuten der Zwiebel und Imre Kertész’Dossier K.
Authors: Gebauer Mirjam
Published: November 2009

Günter Grass’Beim Häuten der Zwiebel und Imre Kertész’Dossier K. (beide 2006) nehmen eine Sonderstellung im Werk der beiden Autoren ein; nicht weil diese autobiographischen Texte „direkten“ Bezug auf vergangenes Leben nehmen (könnten), sondern weil sie poetologische Praxis und Theorie in besonderer Weise vereinen: Der Rückblick auf das vergangene Leben kann nicht im Modus der Referentialität eingelöst werden, sondern ist nur unter den Bedingungen der Fiktionalität realisierbar. Ebenso fördert der Blick auf frühere Texte kein „unverstelltes“ Ich zu Tage, auch wenn deutlich wird, in welch großem Ausmaß die Fiktionen auf der jeweiligen Biographie des Schriftstellers fußen. Das Autobiographische ist also immer anwesend und abwesend zugleich, „unmöglich und gleichzeitig unvermeidbar“ (Finck 1999). Die Diskussion der bei Grass und Kertész verwendeten fiktionalen Modelle (nach den Vorbildern von Grimmelshausen und Kafka) im Lichte der Diskussion zur neuen Autobiographie zeigt, dass beide Texte im kritischen Spannungsverhältnis zur klassischen Autobiographie‐Gattung stehen, wobei sich aber bei Kertész das autobiographische Problem radikalisiert.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Predictors of Inflammatory Breast Diseases During Lactation – Results of a Cohort Study
Authors: Wöckel Achim , Beggel Anna , Rücke Miriam , Abou‐Dakn Michael , Arck Petra
Published: November 2009

Problem  Inflammatory breast diseases during lactation are major reasons for early weaning.

Method of study  A prospective cohort study was performed to examine the association between stress and inflammatory breast diseases. Psychometric data, cytokine levels in breast milk and blood samples were analysed postpartum (T1). Psychometric data and course of breast feeding were evaluated twelve weeks later (T2). Patients were divided into case‐ and control‐groups (according to the presence of breast diseases).

Results  Mothers of the case group (n = 23) were significantly older and showed significantly increased stress levels between T1 and T2 compared with the control group (n = 43). Leucocytes in the postpartum blood count were significantly decreased in the case group. There were no significant differences between groups in the concentrations of Th‐1‐ and Th‐2‐cytokines in breast milk postpartum.

Conclusion  Higher maternal age, postpartum increase in stress perception and low number of leucocytes are associated with a higher incidence of inflammatory breast diseases. Further studies must examine the causality of this effect.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Pregnancy Does not Deter the Development of a Potent Maternal Protective CD8+ T‐Cell Acquired Immune Response Against Listeria Monocytogenes Despite Preferential Placental Colonization
Authors: Krishnan Lakshmi , Pejcic‐Karapetrovic Branka , Gurnani Komal , Zafer Ahmed , Sad Subash
Published: November 2009

Problem

Listeria monocytogenes (LM) preferentially colonizes the placenta and causes fetal loss and systemic disease during pregnancy. As systemic CD8+ T‐cell memory is critical in controlling LM infection, we addressed the issue as to whether it is modulated during pregnancy.

Method of study

Pregnant mice were infected with LM and their immune response was quantified relative to the non‐pregnant cohort using advanced immunological techniques.

Results

Pregnant mice exhibited progressive and massive placental LM infection leading to fetal resorptions. In contrast, they harbored significantly lower bacteria in spleen and liver relative to non‐pregnant controls, and rapidly cleared systemic infection. Both pregnant and non‐pregnant mice exhibited similar activation of systemic innate immunity. Moreover, LM infection in pregnant and non‐pregnant hosts evoked strong antigen‐specific cytolytic CD8+ T cells that produced IFN‐γ. Consequently, LM infection initiated during pregnancy afforded long‐term protective memory to secondary infection.

Conclusion

Maternal hosts generate a normal Listeria‐specific adaptive immunity in particular CD8+ T‐cell memory response suggesting that systemic listeriosis during pregnancy may be an immunopathology associated with placental infection.
Epidermal growth factor in clinical practice – a review of its biological actions, clinical indications and safety implications
Authors: Berlanga‐Acosta Jorge , Gavilondo‐Cowley Jorge , López‐Saura Pedro , González‐López Tania , Castro‐Santana María D , López‐Mola Ernesto , Guillén‐Nieto Gerardo , Herrera‐Martinez Luis
Published: November 2009

Chemotaxis, mitogenesis, motogenesis and cytoprotection are common cellular events involved in both tumourigenesis and tissue repair, which appear amplified upon growth factors exposure. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) promotes these events in epithelial and mesenchymal cells through the binding to a specific tyrosine kinase receptor. In experimental oncology settings, EGF does not initiate malignant transformation but exhibits ‘tumour promotion’. These observations have raised doubts on the clinical use of EGF despite solid demonstrations of efficacy in experimental conditions and clinical trials. The results of a Pubmed and Bioline investigation on EGF clinical uses and preclinical safety data are presented here. EGF topical administration has been used since 1989 to enhance the healing process of a variety of peripheral tissues wounds (16 clinical reports), as well as its intravenous, oral and rectal administration for gastrointestinal damages (11 clinical reports). EGF therapeutic efficacy and excellent tolerability seem demonstrated. Lack of long‐term adverse effects is highlighted in those studies with 6, 12 and 24 months of patients follow‐up. Although post‐treatment follow‐up may fall short for malignant growth, there are no reports on evidences linking EGF clinical use with cancer. A multicentre, nationwide survey in Cuba, 15 years after randomly using silver sulphadiazine with EGF or not in burn victims yielded that cancer incidence was comparable between EGF‐treated and control subjects and that such incidence rate does not differ from the age‐matched national incidence for those 15‐year period. All the animal species subjected to long‐term EGF systemic administration exhibit dose‐dependent and reversible epithelial organs hyperplasia with no changes in cells phenotypic differentiation. Histotypic pre‐malignant markers were not identified. The results emerged from co‐carcinogenesis studies and from transgenic mice over‐expressing EGF are conflicting and indicate that EGF overexposure, either innate or postnatal, may not be sufficient to transform cells. The ability of EGF to heal injured tissues in life‐threatening scenarios or to assist in preventing physical and social disability advocates for its clinical use under a rational medical risk/benefit balance.
A prospective evaluation of lower extremity ulcers in a Zimbabwean population
Authors: Sibanda Martin , Sibanda Ellopy , Jönsson Kent
Published: November 2009

Aetiological factors and their frequencies, causes, level and impact of immunosuppression on outcome of lower extremity ulcers were prospectively recorded. A total of 100 patients were evaluated. Consent for HIV testing was given by 68 patients and 31 (46%) of these were HIV infected. Thirty patients were diabetic. CD 4+ T‐lymphocyte count was assessed in 41 patients. Eleven were HIV infected with a mean CD 4+ count of 229 ± 137 cells/µl. Six had non insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) with a mean CD 4+ count 430 ± 308 cells/µl. Five had both HIV infection and NIDDM with a mean CD 4+ count of 299 ± 120 cells/µl. All three groups differed from the normal 707 ± 285 cells/µl found in 17 non HIV‐infected non diabetic patients (P < 0· 05). The main aetiologies were bacterial infection, arterial disease, trauma and neuropathy. Ulcer healing and limb salvage were noted in 71%. Mortality was 10%; seven in HIV‐infected and three in non HIV‐infected non diabetic patients (P = 0· 06). Amputation rate was 9%. Persisting ulcers were noted in 8% and 2% were lost to follow‐up. Our evaluation shows that wound aetiologies in Zimbabwe differ from those in the West. Immunosuppression because of HIV infection and NIDDM was noted in more than half of the patients. HIV infection may increase mortality in this group of patients.
Topical silver‐impregnated dressings and the importance of the dressing technology
Authors: Cutting Keith , White Richard , Hoekstra Hans
Published: November 2009

A wide variety of silver‐impregnated wound dressings has become available in recent years. This has given the practitioner choice but little evidence by which an appropriate dressing may be selected. In many instances, the ancillary function(s) of the dressing will become differentiating factors that influence choice. For example, the dressing capacity to manage exudate, maintain an optimum moist environment, reduce or avoid maceration, maintain an intimate contact with the wound bed, promote autolytic debridement, sequester bacteria and bind matrix metallo proteases (MMPs) are some of those functions that are of clinical significance and may dictate choice. In this article we present the evidence for these functions, thereby enabling practitioners to evaluate comparative dressing attributes, and so make an informed choice of which silver dressing best suits the needs of the wound under differing circumstances.
The Relationship of Testosterone to Prostate-Specific Antigen in Men with Sexual Dysfunction
Authors: Corona Giovanni , Boddi Valentina , Lotti Francesco , Gacci Mauro , Carini Marco , De Vita Giulia , Sforza Alessandra , Forti Gianni , Mannucci Edoardo , Maggi Mario
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Concern about a testosterone (T)-induced prostate-specific antigen (PSA) increase is often perceived as one of the main limitations in treating hypogonadism even when it is symptomatic, such as in subjects with sexual dysfunction (SD).

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between T and PSA levels in subjects with SD.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated the relationship between T and PSA in 2,291 subjects seeking medical care at our outpatient clinic for SD (sample A). The analysis was then repeated in a selected subpopulation of 1,421 subjects apparently free from prostatic diseases (sample B).

Main Outcome Measures

The specific association between PSA levels, circulating androgens, and different clinical signs and symptoms of hypogonadism, as assessed by ANDROTEST structured interview, was evaluated.

Results

In both samples A and B, subjects with higher PSA levels reported a lower prevalence of hypogonadism-related symptoms and signs, as well as higher total testosterone (TT), and analogue and calculated free T. However, when the association between PSA and T was evaluated as a function of T deciles, the upper nine groups had similar PSA values, with the lowest demonstrated a significantly reduced PSA (the lowest vs. the rest of the sample: 0.61[0.38–1.23] ng/mL vs. 0.86[0.57–1.44] ng/mL, and 0.51[0.30–0.94] ng/mL vs. 0.73[0.52–1.10] ng/mL, respectively, for samples A and B; both P <0.0001). Furthermore, when the relationship between hypogonadism (TT<8 nmol/L) and PSA levels was evaluated according to age, it was significant only in younger subjects, but not in the older ones.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrated that PSA is unrelated to T concentration across most of the T range, except for the most severely T deficient, and that a significant relationship between T and PSA is seen in younger but not in older men.
Restless Genital Syndrome Before and After Clitoridectomy for Spontaneous Orgasms: A Case Report
Authors: Waldinger Marcel D. , Venema Pieter L. , Van Gils Ad P.G. , Schutter Eltjo M.J. , Schweitzer Dave H.
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Females despairing of restless genital syndrome (ReGS) may request clitoridectomy for treatment of unwanted genital sensations.

Aim

The aim of this study was to report persistence of ReGS despite clitoridectomy.

Methods

Following a clitoridectomy for spontaneous orgasms, a 77-year-old woman was referred to our clinic for persistent unwanted genital sensations and feelings of imminent orgasm. An in-depth interview, routine and hormonal investigations, electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and pelvis were performed. The localizations of genital sensations were investigated by manual examination of the ramus inferior of the pubic bone (RIPB) and by sensory testing of the skin of the genital area with a cotton swab.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures included sensitivity of dorsal nerve of the clitoris in RIPB and MRI-pelvis.

Results

Genital dysesthesias, paresthesias, intolerance (allodynia) for tight clothes, aggravation of symptoms during sitting, restless legs, and overactive bladder were diagnosed. Laboratory assessments, and EEG and MRI of the brain were in agreement with aging, but all results were within the normal range. MRI of the pelvis disclosed varices of the uterus and of the left ovarian vein, and a visible scar in the region of the clitoris. Sensory testing of the genital area showed various points of static mechanical hyperesthesia at the left dermatome of the pudendal nerve. Manual examination of the RIPB also elicited the genital sensations at the left side of the vagina at about the 3 o’clock position.

Conclusions

This patient fulfilled all clinical criteria of ReGS that is believed to be caused by neuropathy of the left pudendal nerve. Clitoridectomy abolished spontaneous orgasms for a great part but not completely, and it did not diminish the typical dysesthesias, paresthesias, and feelings of imminent orgasms that typically belong to ReGS. Clitoridectomy is no optional treatment of ReGS. There is a need for publications of ReGS in general medical journals.
Erectile Dysfunction as a Predictor for Subsequent Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Events: Findings from a Linked-Data Study
Authors: Chew Kew-Kim , Finn Judith , Stuckey Bronwyn , Gibson Nicholas , Sanfilippo Frank , Bremner Alexandra , Thompson Peter , Hobbs Michael , Jamrozik Konrad
Published: November 2009

Introduction

In spite of the mounting interest in the nexus between erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular (CV) diseases, there is little published information on the role of ED as a predictor for subsequent CV events.

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the role of ED as a predictor for atherosclerotic CV events subsequent to the manifestation of ED.

Method

The investigation involved the retrospective study of data on a cohort of men with ED linked to hospital morbidity data and death registrations. By using the linked data, the incidence rates of atherosclerotic CV events subsequent to the manifestation of ED were estimated in men with ED and no atherosclerotic CV disease reported prior to the manifestation of ED. The risk of subsequent atherosclerotic CV events in men with ED was assessed by comparing these incidence rates with those in the general male population.

Main Outcome Measure

Standardized incidence rate ratio (SIRR), comparing the incidence of atherosclerotic CV events subsequent to the manifestation of ED in a cohort of 1,660 men with ED to the incidence in the general male population.

Results

On the basis of hospital admissions and death registrations, men with ED had a statistically significantly higher incidence of atherosclerotic CV events (SIRR 2.2; 95% confidence interval 1.9, 2.4). There were significantly increased incidence rate ratios in all age groups younger than 70 years, with a statistically highly significant downward trend with increase of age (P <0.0001) across these age groups. Younger age at first manifestation of ED, cigarette smoking, presence of comorbidities and socioeconomic disadvantage were all associated with higher hazard ratios for subsequent atherosclerotic CV events.

Conclusions

The findings show that ED is not only significantly associated with but is also strongly predictive of subsequent atherosclerotic CV events. This is even more striking when ED presents at a younger age.
Cerebral oxygenation decreases but does not impair performance during self‐paced, strenuous exercise
Authors: Billaut F. , Davis J. M. , Smith K. J. , Marino F. E. , Noakes T. D.
Published: November 2009

Aim:  The reduction in cerebral oxygenation (Cox) is associated with the cessation of exercise during constant work rate and incremental tests to exhaustion. Yet in exercises of this nature, ecological validity is limited due to work rate being either fully or partly dictated by the protocol, and it is unknown whether cerebral deoxygenation also occurs during self‐paced exercise. Here, we investigated the cerebral haemodynamics during a 5‐km running time trial in trained runners.

Methods:  Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and surface electromyogram (EMG) of lower limb muscles were recorded every 0.5 km. Changes in Cox (prefrontal lobe) were monitored via near‐infrared spectroscopy through concentration changes in oxy‐ and deoxyhaemoglobin (Δ[O2Hb], Δ[HHb]). Changes in total Hb were calculated (Δ[THb] = Δ[O2Hb] + Δ[HHb]) and used as an index of change in regional blood volume.

Results:  During the trial, RPE increased from 6.6 ± 0.6 to 19.1 ± 0.7 indicating maximal exertion. Cox rose from baseline to 2.5 km (↑Δ[O2Hb], ↑Δ[HHb], ↑Δ[THb]), remained constant between 2.5 and 4.5 km, and fell from 4.5 to 5 km (↓Δ[O2Hb], ↑Δ[HHb], ↔Δ[THb]). Interestingly, the drop in Cox at the end of the trial coincided with a final end spurt in treadmill speed and concomitant increase in skeletal muscle recruitment (as revealed by higher lower limb EMG).

Conclusion:  Results confirm the large tolerance for change in Cox during exercise at sea level, yet further indicate that, in conditions of self‐selected work rate, cerebral deoxygenation remains within a range that does not hinder strenuous exercise performance.
Impact of the Global Financial Crisis on China: Empirical Evidence and Policy Implications
Authors: Liu Ligang
Published: November 2009

This paper applies a structural vector autoregression analysis to quantify the impact of the global financial crisis on China. It is found that the impact is indeed sizeable: a 1‐percent decline in economic growth in the USA, the EU and Japan is likely to lead to a 0.73‐percent decline in growth in China. The article discusses whether the current measures of fiscal stimulus are adequate to offset the sharp decline in external demand. Although there is little doubt that the massive fiscal stimulus will largely offset the significant shortfalls in external demand, the current growth pattern in China will be increasingly unsustainable in the long term. China's reform cycles suggest that external shocks are often opportunities for structural reforms. Therefore, the crisis could also be a catalyst for rebalancing China's economic structure so as to return the economy to a sustainable path.
China: Unscathed through the Global Financial Tsunami
Authors: Sun Mingchun
Published: November 2009

This paper investigates the reasons behind the resilience of China's economy to the global financial tsunami. China's economy is lowly leveraged in its banking, household, public and external sectors and, therefore, is less plagued by the global deleveraging than most developed economies. Chinese domestic sectors have improved significantly over the past decade, giving them larger capacity to cope with external shocks than during the Asian financial crisis a decade ago. Contrary to the conventional wisdom that China's economic growth is highly dependent on exports, we find that the main growth engine for China is domestic demand. Destocking, rather than falling exports, was the main cause of the sharp economic slowdown in China in late 2008 and early 2009. Therefore, the global economic slowdown should have limited impact on China's economy. We forecast a sustained economic recovery in China in 2009–2011, with real GDP growth exceeding 10 percent in 2010.
Is the Chinese Economy Moving in the Direction of Tertiarization?
Authors: Cheng Dazhong , Blanchard Jean‐Marc
Published: November 2009

Drawing upon output, employment, consumption and trade data, this article examines whether there is an economic tertiarization trend in China 's economy and evaluates the common factors driving current trends. It shows that the tertiarization trend is evident for the overall economy and most regions in terms of the service nominal value‐added ratio and service employment and consumption. However, the tertiarization trend is not significant in terms of the service real value‐added ratio, and there is even some concurrent “detertiarization” because of the decreasing proportion of services in imports and exports. Indeed, China's tertiarization trend is far behind its industrialization trend. The rise in the relative prices of services explains the rising proportion of household service consumption expenditure and further illuminates why the service real value‐added ratio has not grown. The main cause for the growing percentage of service employment is the lag in service labor productivity growth in interaction with the price inelasticity of service demand. “Cost disease” has appeared in service consumption.
Phenolic Composition and Antioxidant Activities of 11 Celery Cultivars
Authors: Yao Yang , Sang Wei , Zhou Mengjie , Ren Guixing
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  Eleven cultivars of celery, belonging to 2 species, were collected and analyzed for their phenolic compound composition and antioxidant activities. Major phenolic acids identified in the extracts of these celeries were caffeic acid, p‐coumaric acid, and ferulic acid, while the identified flavonoids were apigenin, luteolin, and kaempferol. The contents of total phenolics were measured using a Folin–Ciocalteu assay and the total antioxidant capacity was estimated by the 1, 1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and 2, 2′‐azino‐bis (3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) (ABTS·+) methods. Apigenin was the major flavonoid in these samples and the most abundant phenolic acid was p‐coumaric acid. Many of the investigated cultivars had high levels of phenolics and exhibited high antioxidant capacity. Among these 11 cultivars, Shengjie celery had the highest antioxidant activity whereas Tropica had the lowest. An extremely significant positive correlation between the antioxidant activity and the contents of total flavonoids, total phenolic acids, or total phenolics was observed in this study.
Analysis of Free‐Radical Scavenging of Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguriensis) using Electron Spin Resonance and Radical‐Induced DNA Damage
Authors: Leonard Stephen S. , Hogans Vallie J. , Coppes‐Petricorena Zulema , Peer Cody J. , Vining Timothy A. , Fleming David W. , Harris Gabriel K.
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  Mate (MT) is a popular South American beverage that has been used as a traditional medicine for centuries, spurring recent interest in its nutraceutical properties. MT is prepared as an infusion of leaves from the Yerba Mate (llex paraguriensis) tree. MT has been reported to have antioxidant properties in vitro and in vivo, but these have not been fully characterized in terms of effects against specific radicals. Accordingly, we examined the antioxidant effects of an MT infusion against hydroxyl and superoxide radicals in both chemical and cell culture assays. MT infusions were prepared at 3.10 g/L in boiling water and diluted to experimental dilutions from this stock. Electron spin resonance (ESR) experiments indicated that MT scavenged hydroxyl radicals (produced via the Fenton reaction) and superoxide radicals (produced via the xanthine/xanthine oxidase enzymatic reaction) at all concentrations tested (P < 0.05). Further controls indicated that superoxide radical scavenging was not due to xanthine oxidase inhibition. MT scavenged hydroxyl radicals and decreased cellular oxygen consumption in a dose‐dependent manner in Cr(VI)‐stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, based on ESR and oxygraph measurements (P < 0.05). Similarly, MT also inhibited hydroxyl‐radical‐induced lipid peroxidation and DNA damage in a dose‐dependent manner in RAW 264.7 cells, based on malondialdehyde and Comet assay data (P < 0.05). This study indicates that MT possesses potent antioxidant effects against hydroxyl and superoxide radicals in both chemical and cell culture systems, as well as DNA‐protective properties. These data further clarify the reported antioxidant effects of Yerba Mate infusions.
Investigation of a Q Fever Outbreak in a Scottish Co‐Located Slaughterhouse and Cutting Plant
Authors: Wilson L. E. , Couper S. , Prempeh H. , Young D. , Pollock K. G. J. , Stewart W. C. , Browning L. M. , Donaghy M.
Published: November 2009

Outbreaks of Q fever are rare in the UK. In 2006, the largest outbreak of Q fever in Scotland occurred at a co‐located slaughterhouse and cutting plant with 110 cases. Preliminary investigations pointed to the sheep lairage being the potential source of exposure to the infective agent. A retrospective cohort study was carried out among workers along with environmental sampling to guide public health interventions. A total of 179 individuals were interviewed of whom 66 (37%) were migrant workers. Seventy‐five (41.9%) were serologically confirmed cases. Passing through a walkway situated next to the sheep lairage, a nearby stores area, and being male were independently associated with being serologically positive for Q fever. The large proportion of migrant workers infected presented a significant logistical problem during outbreak investigation and follow up. The topic of vaccination against Q fever for slaughterhouse workers is contentious out with Australasia, but this outbreak highlights important occupational health issues.
Methods for Genotyping Verotoxin‐Producing Escherichia coli
Authors: Karama M. , Gyles C. L.
Published: November 2009

Verotoxin‐producing Escherichia coli (VTEC) is annually incriminated in more than 100 000 cases of enteric foodborne human disease and in losses amounting to $US 2.5 billion every year. A number of genotyping methods have been developed to track VTEC infections and determine diversity and evolutionary relationships among these microorganisms. These methods have facilitated monitoring and surveillance of foodborne VTEC outbreaks and early identification of outbreaks or clusters of outbreaks. Pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) has been used extensively to track and differentiate VTEC because of its high discriminatory power, reproducibility and ease of standardization. Multiple‐locus variable‐number tandem‐repeats analysis (MLVA) and microarrays are the latest genotyping methods that have been applied to discriminate VTEC. MLVA, a simpler and less expensive method, is proving to have a discriminatory power comparable to that of PFGE. Microarrays are successfully being applied to differentiate VTEC and make inferences on genome diversification. Novel methods that are being evaluated for subtyping VTEC include the detection of single nucleotide polymorphisms and optical mapping. This review discusses the principles, applications, advantages and disadvantages of genotyping methods that have been used to differentiate VTEC strains. These methods have been mainly used to differentiate strains of O157:H7 VTEC and to a lesser extent non‐O157 VTEC.
Epidemiological Survey on EquineCryptosporidiumandGiardiaInfections in Italy and Molecular Characterization of Isolates
Authors: Veronesi F. , Passamonti F. , Cacciò S. , Diaferia M. , Piergili Fioretti D.
Published: November 2009

CryptosporidiumandGiardiaare two of the most common enteric pathogens of domestic and wild animals and humans. However, little is known on the prevalence, clinical manifestations and economic and zoonotic significance of these infections in horses. This study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence, excretion patterns and risk factors related to the faecal shedding ofCryptosporidiumoocysts andGiardiacysts in horses and the zoonotic potential of species/genotypes isolated. The survey was performed on 120 foals and 30 broodmares reared in five Italian farms. Foals were divided in four homogeneous groups of 30 animals each (age classes: 0–2, 2–4, 4–8, >8 weeks). Three sequential faecal samples were collected from each animal and analysed by three techniques: direct fluorescent antibody test (DFA), faecal flotation (FF) and stained faecal smears (SFS). The DFA results showed a prevalence of 8% forCryptosporidiumand of 13.33% forGiardia; the prevalence values obtained by FF and SFS were lower and in poor agreement with DFA results.GiardiaandCryptosporidiuminfections were more common in foals (23.33% and 26.66% respectively) and higher excretions were observed in the youngest foals. Distribution ofCryptosporidiumprevalence was statistically related to farms (P < 0.01), age of animals (P < 0.01), but was unrelated to the presence of diarrhoea. In the case ofGiardia, the prevalence was only related to age (P < 0.01). Pattern sheddings were related to intestinal diseases and horse age (P < 0.01). Risk factors for shedding included residence farms and age older than 8 weeks for both parasites. All DFA‐positive faecal samples were submitted to DNA extraction and PCR to determineGiardiaandCryptosporidiumspecies/genotypes. Sequence analysis of the COWP gene ofCryptosporidiumand of the SSU‐rRNA gene ofGiardiarevealed that they were identical to each other and identifiedCryptosporidium parvumandGiardia duodenalisassemblage E. The potential role of infected horses in zoonotic transmission ofCryptosporidiumwas supported by the findings of this study.
Inter‐relationships ofSalmonellaStatus of Flock and Grow‐Out Environment at Sequential Segments in Broiler Production and Processing
Authors: Volkova V. V. , Bailey R. H. , Rybolt M. L. , Dazo‐Galarneau K. , Hubbard S. A. , Magee D. , Byrd J. A. , Wills R. W.
Published: November 2009

In this study, we investigated how the likelihoods ofSalmonellapresence in various samples from broilers and their grow‐out environment throughout one production cycle were related. Sixty‐four broiler flocks from 10 complexes of two companies in the southern United States were included in the study. Samples from the gastrointestinal tracts of chicks, transport tray pads and litter and drag swabs from the house were collected on the day of placement of each flock. Approximately, 1 week before harvest, whole bird carcass rinses, caecum and crop samples were collected from birds from these same flocks. On the day of harvest, litter and drag swab samples were also taken from the house after the birds were removed. Upon arrival of the flocks at the processing plant, whole carcass rinses, caecum and crop samples were collected. As the flocks were processed, carcass rinses were collected just before the carcasses entered the immersion chill tank and as they exited the chill tank. Logistic regression was used to model the relationships between the likelihood ofSalmonellain samples of each type collected at each sampling point andSalmonellafrequencies in all the samples taken from the flock and grow‐out environment at preceding production stages. The analysis demonstrated that increased likelihood ofSalmonellacontaminated carcasses entering the immersion chill tank was associated with higher contamination of the exteriors and crops of birds at arrival for processing as well as house environmental samples at the time of harvest and prior to placement. The best predictors of post‐chill broiler carcassSalmonellastatus were the frequencies ofSalmonellain the litter on the day of harvest and prior to placement. The immersion chilling appeared to disrupt some of the relationships between the processing plant and pre‐harvest samples.
A Serosurvey of Crimean‐Congo Haemorrhagic Fever Virus in Dairy Cattle in Iran
Authors: Lotfollahzadeh S. , Nikbakht Boroujeni Gh. R. , Mokhber Dezfouli M. R. , Bokaei S.
Published: November 2009

A seroepidemiological survey to determine the prevalence of Crimean‐Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) virus among dairy cattle in Iran was carried out during 2006 and 2008. Blood samples were collected from 876 animals in five different provinces of the country. Sera were tested by a sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for quantitative determination of antibodies to CCHF virus. Serological evidence of infection was noted in 52 (5.9%) of 876 dairy cattle. Antibody prevalence increased with age; 78.8% seroprevalence in cattle older than 3 years versus 21.2% in animals less than 2 years old. There was a difference between provinces representing north‐east (11.7%) and east (2%) of Iran.
Images, Intentionality and Inexistence1
Authors: BLUMSON BEN
Published: November 2009

The possibilities of depicting non‐existents, depicting non‐particulars and depictive misrepresentation are frequently cited as grounds for denying the platitude that depiction is mediated by resemblance. I first argue that these problems are really a manifestation of the more general problem of intentionality. I then show how there is a plausible solution to the general problem of intentionality which is consonant with the platitude.
Know how to be Gettiered?
Authors: POSTON TED
Published: November 2009

Jason Stanley and Timothy Williamson’s influential article “Knowing How” argues that knowledge‐how is a species of knowledge‐that. One objection to their view is that knowledge‐how is significantly different than knowledge‐that because Gettier cases afflict the latter but not the former. Stanley and Williamson argue that this objection fails. Their response, however, is not adequate. Moreover, I sketch a plausible argument that knowledge‐how is not susceptible to Gettier cases. This suggests a significant distinction between knowledge‐that and knowledge‐how.
What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You1
Authors: BENNETT KAREN
Published: November 2009

This boy is Ignorance. This girl is Want. Beware them both, and all of their degree, but most of all beware this boy, for on his brow I see that written which is Doom... —Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol
Fluid Film Dynamic Coefficients in Mechanical Face Seals
Authors: Green I. , Etsion I.
Published: November 2009

The stiffness and damping coefficients of the fluid film in mechanical face seals are calculated for the three major degrees of freedom of the primary seal ring. The calculation is based on small perturbation of the ring from its equilibrium position. Analytical expressions are presented for the various coefficients and a comparison is made with results of accurate but more complex analyses to establish the range of applicability.
Effects of dopant ion and Mn valence state in the La1−xAxMnO3 (A=Sr,Ba) colossal magnetoresistance films
Authors: Choi Sun Gyu , Wang Seok-Joo , Park Hyung-Ho , Hong MunPyo , Kwon Kwang-Ho
Published: November 2009

The structural and electrical properties of Mn-based colossal magnetoresistance (CMR) thin films with controlled tolerance factor and Mn ion valance ratio were studied using crystal structure and chemical bonding character analyses. La0.7Sr0.3MnO3, La0.7Ba0.3MnO3, and La0.82Ba0.18MnO3 thin films with different contents of divalent cations and Mn3+/Mn4+ ratios were deposited on amorphous SiO2/Si substrate by rf magnetron sputtering at a substrate temperature of 350 °C. The films showed the same crystalline structure as the pseudocubic structure. The change in the sheet resistance of films was analyzed according to strain state of the unit cell, chemical bonding character of Mn–O, and Mn3+/Mn4+ ratio controlling the Mn3+–O2−–Mn4+ conducting path. Mn L-edge x-ray absorption spectra revealed that the Mn3+/Mn4+ ratio changed according to different compositions of Sr or Ba and the Mn 2p core level x-ray photoelectron spectra showed that the Mn 2p binding energy was affected by the covalence of the Mn–O bond and Mn3+/Mn4+ ratio. In addition, O K-edge x-ray absorption spectra showed covalently mixed Mn 3d and O 2p states and matched well with the resistivity changes of CMR films. Temperature coefficient of resistance values were obtained at approximately −2.16%/K to −2.46%/K of the CMR films and were correct for infrared sensor applications.
Etching characteristics and mechanism of indium tin oxide films in an inductively coupled HBr∕Ar plasma
Authors: Kwon Kwang-Ho , Efremov Alexander , Ham Yong-Hyun , Min Nam Ki , Lee Hyun Woo , Hong Mun Pyo , Kim Kwangsoo
Published: November 2009

The investigations of etch characteristics and mechanisms for indium tin oxide (In2O3)0.9:(SnO2)0.1 (ITO) thin films using HBr∕Ar inductively coupled plasma were carried out. The ITO etch rate was measured in the range of 0%–100% Ar in the HBr∕Ar mixture at fixed gas pressure (6mTorr), input power (700W), and bias power (200W). Plasma parameters and composition were examined with a combination of plasma diagnostics by double Langmuir probe and global (zero-dimensional) plasma model. It was found that the ITO etch rate follows the behavior of Br atom flux but contradicts with that for H atoms and positive ions. This suggests that the ITO etch process is not limited by the ion-surface interaction kinetics and appears in the reaction-rate-limited etch regime with the Br atoms as the main chemically active species.