bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensorimotor Mapping for Anticipatory Grip Force Modulation
Authors: Crevecoeur Frédéric , Thonnard Jean-Louis , Lefèvre Philippe
Published: June 2010

During object manipulation, predictive grip force modulation allows compensation for inertial forces induced by the object's acceleration. This coupling between grip force (GF) and load force (LF) during voluntary movements has demonstrated high levels of complexity, adaptability, and flexibility under many loading conditions in a broad range of experimental studies. The association between GF and LF indicates the presence of internal models underlying predictive GF control. The present experiment sought to identify the variables taken into account during GF modulation at the initiation of a movement. Twenty subjects performed discrete point-to-point movements under normal and hypergravity conditions induced by parabolic flights. Two control experiments performed under normal gravitational conditions compared the observed effect of the increase in gravity with the effects of a change in movement kinematics and a change in mass. In hypergravity, subjects responded accurately to the increase in weight during stationary holding but overestimated inertial loads. During dynamic phases, the relationship between GF and LF under hypergravity varied in a manner similar to the control test in which object mass was increased, whereas a change in movement kinematics could not reproduce this result. We suggest that the subjects' strategy for anticipatory GF modulation is based on sensorimotor mapping that combines the perception of the weight encoded during stationary holding with an internal representation of the movement kinematics. In particular, such a combination reflects a prior knowledge of the unequivocal relationship linking mass, weight, and loads under the invariant gravitational context experienced on Earth.
Dual Spinal Lesion Paradigm in the Cat: Evolution of the Kinematic Locomotor Pattern
Authors: Barrière Grégory , Frigon Alain , Leblond Hugues , Provencher Janyne , Rossignol Serge
Published: June 2010

The recovery of voluntary quadrupedal locomotion after an incomplete spinal cord injury can involve different levels of the CNS, including the spinal locomotor circuitry. The latter conclusion was reached using a dual spinal lesion paradigm in which a low thoracic partial spinal lesion is followed, several weeks later, by a complete spinal transection (i.e., spinalization). In this dual spinal lesion paradigm, cats can express hindlimb walking 1 day after spinalization, a process that normally takes several weeks, suggesting that the locomotor circuitry within the lumbosacral spinal cord had been modified after the partial lesion. Here we detail the evolution of the kinematic locomotor pattern throughout the dual spinal lesion paradigm in five cats to gain further insight into putative neurophysiological mechanisms involved in locomotor recovery after a partial spinal lesion. All cats recovered voluntary quadrupedal locomotion with treadmill training (3–5 days/wk) over several weeks. After the partial lesion, the locomotor pattern was characterized by several left/right asymmetries in various kinematic parameters, such as homolateral and homologous interlimb coupling, cycle duration, and swing/stance durations. When no further locomotor improvement was observed, cats were spinalized. After spinalization, the hindlimb locomotor pattern rapidly reappeared, but left/right asymmetries in swing/stance durations observed after the partial lesion could disappear or reverse. It is concluded that, after a partial spinal lesion, the hindlimb locomotor pattern was actively maintained by new dynamic interactions between spinal and supraspinal levels but also by intrinsic changes within the spinal cord.
Detection of Minute Temperature Transients by Thermosensitive Neurons in Ants
Authors: Ruchty Markus , Roces Flavio , Kleineidam Christoph Johannes
Published: June 2010

The antennae of leaf-cutting ants are equipped with sensilla coeloconica that house three receptor neurons, one of which is thermosensitive. Using convective heat (air at different temperatures), we investigated the physiological characteristics of the thermosensitive neuron associated with the sensilla coeloconica in the leaf-cutting ant Atta vollenweideri. The thermosensitive neuron very quickly responds to a drop in temperature with a brief phasic increase (50 ms) in spike rate and thus classifies as cold receptor (ambient temperature = 24°C). The short latency and the brief phasic response enable the thermosensitive neuron to follow temperature transients up to an estimated frequency of around 5 Hz. Although the neuron responds as a cold receptor, it is extremely sensitive to warm stimuli. A temperature increase of only 0.005°C already leads to a pronounced decrease in the resting activity of the thermosensitive neuron. Through sensory adaptation, the sensitivity to temperature transients is maintained over a wide range of ambient temperatures (18–30°C). We conclude that the thermosensitive neuron of the sensilla coeloconica is adapted to detect minute temperature transients, providing the ants with thermal information of their microenvironment, which they may use for orientation.
Sensory Learning Differentially Affects GABAergic Tonic Currents in Excitatory Neurons and Fast Spiking Interneurons in Layer 4 of Mouse Barrel Cortex
Authors: Urban-Ciecko Joanna , Kossut Małgorzata , Mozrzymas Jerzy W.
Published: June 2010

Pairing tactile stimulation of whiskers with a tail shock is known to result in expansion of cortical representation of stimulated vibrissae and in the increase in synaptic GABAergic transmission. However, the impact of such sensory learning in classical conditioning paradigm on GABAergic tonic currents has not been addressed. To this end, we performed whole cell patch-clamp slice recordings of tonic currents from neurons (excitatory regular spiking, regular spiking nonpyramidal, and fast spiking interneurons) of layer 4 of the barrel cortex from naive and trained mice. Interestingly, endogenous tonic GABAergic currents measured from the excitatory neurons in the cortical representation of “trained” vibrissae were larger than in the “naïve” or pseudoconditioned ones. On the contrary, sensory learning markedly reduced tonic currents in the fast spiking interneurons but not in regular spiking nonpyramidal neurons. Changes of tonic currents were accompanied by changes in the input resistances—decrease in regular spiking and increase in fast spiking neurons, respectively. Applications of nipecotic acid, a GABA uptake blocker, enhanced the tonic currents, but the impact of the sensory learning remained qualitatively the same as in the case of the tonic currents. Similar to endogenous tonic currents, sensory learning enhanced currents induced by THIP (superagonist for δ subunit–containing GABAAreceptors) in regular spiking neurons, whereas the opposite was observed for the fast spiking interneurons. In conclusion, our data show that the sensory learning strongly affects the GABAergic tonic currents in a cell-specific manner and suggest that the underlying mechanism involves regulation of expression of δ subunit–containing GABAAreceptors.
Blowup Properties for a Semilinear Reaction‐Diffusion System with Nonlinear Nonlocal Boundary Conditions
Authors: Liu Dengming , Mu Chunlai
Published: June 2010

We investigate the blowup properties of the positive solutions for a semilinear
reaction‐diffusion system with nonlinear nonlocal boundary condition. We obtain some sufficient conditions for global existence and blowup by utilizing the method of subsolution and supersolution.
Infrared Optical Response of Metallic Graphene Nanoribbons
Authors: Duan Zigang , Liao Wenhu , Zhou Guanghui
Published: June 2010

We investigate theoretically the infrared optical response characteristics of metallic armchair/zigzag-edge graphene nanoribbons (A/ZGNRs) to an external longitudinally polarized electromagnetic field at low temperatures. Within the framework of linear response theory at the perturbation regime, we examine the optical infrared absorption threshold energy, absorption power, dielectric function, and electron energy loss spectra near the neutrality points of the systems. It is demonstrated that, by some numerical examples, the photon-assisted direct interband absorptions for AGNR exist with different selection rules from those for ZGNR and single-walled carbon nanotube at infrared regime. This infrared optical property dependence of GNRs on field frequency may be used to design graphene-based nanoscale optoelectronic devices for the detection of infrared electromagnetic irradiations.
A Class of Fan‐Browder Type Fixed‐Point Theorem and Its Applications In Topological Space
Authors: Chen Yi-An , Zhang Yi-Ping
Published: June 2010

A fixed‐point theorem is proved under noncompact setting of general topological spaces. By applying the fixed‐point theorem, several new existence theorems of solutions for equilibrium problems are proved under noncompact setting of topological spaces. These theorems improve and generalize the corresponding results in related literature.
Sclerosing Variant of the Bronchioloalveolar Carcinoma: Imaging Findings in an Atypical Case
Authors: Constantino Carolina Lamas , Marchiori Edson , Zanetti Gláucia , Muccillo Antonio , Pereira Mariana Leite , Abdalla Guilherme , Martins Pedro , Ventura Nina , Canellas Rodrigo , Brandão Viviane , Varella de Oliveira Romulo
Published: June 2010

Bronchioloalveolar carcinoma remains one of the most enigmatic lung cancers, demonstrating varied growth patterns, mixed histological features, and confusing clinical manifestations. This paper reports a case of an unusual form of presentation: a sclerosing type associated with desmoplastic reaction and cicatrization. A 75-year-old woman was admitted with persistent dry cough and progressive dyspnea. Physical examination showed bilateral inspiratory crackles. A chest radiograph and high-resolution computed tomography demonstrated confluent airspace nodules, forming areas of consolidation in both lungs, with signs of architectural distortion. The lung biopsy revealed a nonmucinous sclerosing bronchioloalveolar carcinoma.
Existence and Multiplicity of Solutions to Discrete Conjugate Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Zheng Bo
Published: June 2010

We consider the existence and multiplicity of solutions to discrete conjugate boundary value problems. A generalized asymptotically linear condition on the nonlinearity is proposed, which includes the asymptotically linear as a special case. By classifying the linear systems, we define index functions and obtain some properties and the concrete computation formulae of index functions. Then, some new conditions on the existence and multiplicity of solutions are obtained by combining some nonlinear analysis methods, such as Leray‐Schauder principle and Morse theory. Our results are new even for the case of asymptotically linear.
Analysis of Tire Contact Parameters Using Visual Processing
Authors: Ivanov Valentin
Published: June 2010

This paper discusses the application of noncontact methods to analyze the tire-surface contact interaction. This approach uses the tire test bench with the set of contact patch monitoring based on image processing procedures. The first part of this paper presents the results of experimental estimation of the contact patch area depending on the normal wheel load and inflation pressure for different car tires. The data were obtained for test bench conditions on the basis of the visual processing of tread footprint. Further, the contact length in the cohesion area during wheel rolling for single points on the tire profile has been chosen as a benchmark criterion. This paper has analyzed the influence of the wheel normal load and tire inflation pressure on the contact length with small rolling velocities. The results of the investigations are given for winter and racing tires with different grades of wear.
Full-Band GSM Fingerprints for Indoor Localization Using a Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Ahriz Iness , Oussar Yacine , Denby Bruce , Dreyfus Gérard
Published: June 2010

Indoor handset localization in an urban apartment setting is studied using GSM trace mobile measurements. Nearest-neighbor, Support Vector Machine, Multilayer Perceptron, and Gaussian Process classifiers are compared. The linear Support Vector Machine provides mean room classification accuracy of almost 98% when all GSM carriers are used. To our knowledge, ours is the first study to use fingerprints containing all GSM carriers, as well as the first to suggest that GSM can be useful for localization of very high performance.
Chromatography-Olfactometry Study of the Aroma of Fino Sherry Wines
Authors: Zea L. , Moyano L. , Ruiz M. J. , Medina M.
Published: June 2010

The aroma of Fino sherry wines produced by industrial biological aging for 0, 1.5, 2.5, 4.5, and 6 years in the Montilla-Moriles region (southern Spain) was studied by gas chromatography-olfactometry. The aroma sensations detected by 3 trained sniffers were classified according to their odor descriptors into 8 odorant series (fruity, empyreumatic, chemical, fatty, balsamic, vegetable, floral, and spicy), describing the aroma profile of the studied wines. The results showed 47 detected odors in the unaged wines, 50 in the 1.5-years-old wines and 59, 61 and 69 in the wines aged 2.5, 4.5, and 6 years, respectively. According to the frequency of the perceived aromas, the fruity and empyreumatic series were the most characteristic odorant series. By exception of chemical, floral and balsamic series without changes during aging of the wines, the remainder series increased their participation during the aging, mainly the fruity, empyreumatic, and fatty series.
Complete Convergence for Maximal Sums of Negatively Associated Random Variables
Authors: Kruglov Victor M.
Published: June 2010

Necessary and sufficient conditions are given for the complete convergence of maximal sums of identically distributed negatively associated random variables. The conditions are expressed in terms of integrability of random variables. Proofs are based on new maximal inequalities for sums of bounded negatively associated random variables.
The Catalytic Function of Nonheme Iron (III) Complex for Hydrocarbon Oxidation
Authors: Bilis Giorgos , Louloudi Maria
Published: June 2010

A detailed catalytic study of LFeIIICl (where L = 3‐{2‐[2‐(3‐hydroxy‐1,3‐diphenyl‐allylideneamino)‐ethylamino]‐ethylimino}‐1,3‐diphenyl‐propen‐1‐ol) for hydrocarbon oxidation was carried out, focusing on the role of solvent, atmospheric dioxygen, and oxidant on catalytic efficiency. The data showed that LFeIIICl catalyst was efficient in homogeneous hydrocarbon oxidations providing significant yields. Moreover, tert‐BuOOH provided comparable oxidation yields with H2O2, slightly favoring the formation of alcohols and ketones versus epoxides. Dioxygen intervened in the catalytic reaction, influencing the nature of oxidation products. The polarity of solvent strongly influenced the reaction rates and the nature of oxidation products. A mechanistic model is postulated assuming that LFeIIICl functions via the formation of iron‐hydroperoxo‐species, followed by a radical‐based mechanistic path.
Risk Factors of the First Febrile Seizures in Iranian Children
Authors: Mahyar Abolfazl , Ayazi Parviz , Fallahi Mazdak , Javadi Amir
Published: June 2010

Objective. Febrile seizures are the most common type of convulsion in children. The identification of influencing factors on incidence of the first febrile seizures is of prime priority. The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors of the first febrile seizures in Iranian children.Methods. In this case-control study 80 children aged 9 month to 5 years with their first febrile seizures were compared with 80 children with fever without seizure based on different risk factors in 2007.Results. There was significant difference between two groups regarding the gender, family history of febrile seizures, breast-feeding duration, and the body temperature (P<.05).Conclusion. Our study showed that factors including the gender, family history of febrile seizures, breast-feeding duration, and the body temperature are among the risk factors in occurrence of the first febrile seizure. Preventive measures to remove such risk factors could lead to lower the incidence of febrile seizures.
On the Existence of Infinite Size Costas Arrays Configurations of Nonattacking Queens on the Chessboard
Authors: Drakakis Konstantinos
Published: June 2010

A procedure for the construction of Costas arrays of infinite size representing configurations on non‐attacking
queens on the chessboard is presented.
An Intelligent Packet Loss Control Heuristic for Connectionless Real‐Time Voice Communication
Authors: Şensoy Murat , Yılmaz Burcu , Yılmaz Erdoğan
Published: June 2010

Time critical nature of the real‐time communication usually makes connection‐oriented protocols such as TCP useless, because retransmission of old and probably expired packets is not desired. However, connectionless protocols such as UDP do not provide such packet loss control and suitable for real‐time communication such as voice or video communication. In this paper, we present an adaptive approach for the intelligent packet loss control for connectionless real‐time voice communication. Instead of detecting and resending lost voice packets, this heuristic estimates the packet loss rate adaptively using a modified version of reinforcement learning and resends the most critical packets before they are expired. Our simulations indicate that this approach is promising for a remarkable improvement in QoS of real‐time voice communication.
Psychosocial Factors, Psychiatric Illness and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Van Oudenhove Lukas , Vandenberghe Joris , Demyttenaere Koen , Tack Jan
Published: June 2010

A new classification of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) became available recently, based on consensus in expert committees (‘Rome III process’). It is widely accepted that these frequent disorders, although their pathophysiology remains incompletely understood, result from a complex reciprocal interaction between biological, psychological and social factors that can be predisposing, precipitating and/or perpetuating. Comorbidity with psychiatric disorders, especially mood and anxiety disorders, is high. Modern epidemiologic, psychophysiological and functional neuroimaging studies have partially elucidated the mechanisms underlying the relation between cognitive-affective processes on the one hand and GI function and symptom reporting on the other. The aim of this article is to provide a noncomprehensive historical review of the literature on FGID up to the mid-20th century, with special emphasis on the role of psychosocial factors and psychiatric comorbidity. We can conclude from this review that a lot of the knowledge that became available recently through modern research methodology can also be found in the historical psychosomatic and neuroscience literature, though obviously less empirically grounded. This provides further support for an integrative, multidisciplinary biopsychosocial approach to FGID.
Efficacy, Safety and Outcomes of ‘Inject and Cut’ Endoscopic Mucosal Resection for Large Sessile and Flat Colorectal Polyps
Authors: Ferrara Francesco , Luigiano Carmelo , Ghersi Stefania , Fabbri Carlo , Bassi Marco , Landi Patrizia , Polifemo Anna Maria , Billi Paola , Cennamo Vincenzo , Consolo Pierluigi , Alibrandi Angela , D’Imperio Nicola
Published: June 2010

Background and Study Aims: The study examines the outcomes of the ‘inject and cut’ endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), for large sessile and flat colorectal polyps. Patients and Methods: Between January 2006 and December 2008 all patients referred to our institution for EMR of large polyps were prospectively evaluated. The accuracy of lifting sign and the rate of en bloc and piecemeal resection, complications and recurrence were analyzed. Results: A total of 157 patients with 182 lesions (median size 24.7 ± 10.2 mm) were included in the study. The most frequent location was the sigmoid colon in 30.2%. Because of non-lifting sign, 5/182 lesions were referred to surgical resection and 177 (43 flat and 134 sessile) were resected, 79 (44.6%) en bloc and 98 (55.4%) piecemeal. There were 20 procedural (11.3%) and 2 late (1.1%) bleeding, 4 post-polypectomy syndrome (2.2%) and 2 perforations (1.1%). Bleeding was related to malignancy (p = 0.01). Intramucosal cancer was observed in 5 cases (2.8%) while invasive cancer was seen in 8 (4.5%). Malignancy was related to polyp size ≧30 mm (p = 0.002). Follow-up colonoscopy was performed in 147 patients with 172 EMR for a mean of 19.8 months. Recurrence was observed in 12/172 (6.9%) polyps. Conclusion: Inject and cut EMR is practical and effective with a low risk of complication and local recurrence.
Acute Complications of Crohn’s Disease: Comparison of Multidetector-Row Computed Tomographic Enterography with Magnetic Resonance Enterography
Authors: Schmidt Sabine , Guibal Aymeric , Meuwly Jean-Yves , Michetti Pierre , Felley Christian , Meuli Reto , Schnyder Pierre , Denys Alban
Published: June 2010

Objective: To compare multidetector-row computed tomographic (MDCT) enterography with magnetic resonance (MR) enterography performed upon acute exacerbation of Crohn’s disease. Subjects and Methods: Fifty-seven patients (mean age 33.5) with proven Crohn’s disease and symptoms suggesting acute exacerbation were prospectively included. After oral administration of 1–2 liters of 5% methylcellulose, MDCT and MR enterography were performed on each patient (mean delay <24 h). Three radiologists blindly and independently evaluated each examination for technical quality and in terms of 8 pathological features of Crohn’s disease. Observers’ agreement, sensitivity and specificity resulted from comparison with the reference standard [surgery (n = 24), endoscopy (n = 17) and long-term follow-up (n = 16)]. Results: MDCT enterography demonstrated fewer artifacts than MR enterography (p < 0.0001). In 48 MDCT/MR enterography examinations, active disease was demonstrated: abscesses (n = 11), fistulas (n = 13), stenoses (n = 23) and/or intestinal inflammation (n = 38). Observers’ agreement (range 0.56–0.87) was not significantly different between MDCT and MR enterography, neither in terms of sensitivity (range 58–95%) nor specificity (range 67–100%) for each of the 8 pathological features. Conclusion: Statistically, MR enterography is of similar diagnostic value as MDCT enterography for acute complications of Crohn’s disease. Since the typical Crohn’s disease patient is young and will very likely undergo life-long imaging, and given concerns about radiation exposure with MDCT, MR enterography should be the preferred modality.
Development of an in vitro Modified Skin Absorption Test for the Investigation of the Follicular Penetration Pathway of Caffeine
Authors: Trauer S. , Lademann J. , Knorr F. , Richter H. , Liebsch M. , Rozycki C. , Balizs G. , Büttemeyer R. , Linscheid M. , Patzelt A.
Published: June 2010

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) recommends caffeine as a reference substance for in vitro skin absorption tests using Franz diffusion cells (FDC). However, it has not been possible to investigate the follicular penetration pathway using this method until now. The aim of this study was to develop a technique to allow the examination of the follicular penetration pathway of a substance penetrating into the skin. The OECD standard method was therefore combined with the follicle closing technique (FCT), an established in vivo method. By using test skin of varying follicular densities, different penetration values were obtained for the test substance caffeine. The follicular penetration rate was determined by an indirect calculation after modifying the in vivo FCT for use in the in vitro FDC. This method is the first to allow the differentiation of penetration pathways by combining the OECD standard method (using the FDC) and the FCT. Caffeine showed a surprisingly high rate of penetration through the follicular shunts in vitro.
Modeled Dalbavancin Transmembrane Clearance during Intermittent and Continuous Renal Replacement Therapies
Authors: Vilay A. Mary , Shah Krishna H. , Churchwell Mariann D. , Patel Jignesh H. , DePestel Daryl D. , Mueller Bruce A.
Published: June 2010

Background/Aims: Knowledge of dalbavancin renal replacement therapy (RRT) disposition is vital to ensure appropriate dosing. In vitro models of continuous RRT and intermittent hemodialysis (IHD) were used to determine dalbavancin transmembrane clearance (CLtm). Methods: Dalbavancin saturation and sieving coefficients (SCs) were determined for hemodialysis and hemofiltration therapies, respectively, using various hemodiafilter and effluent rate combinations. Dalbavancin CLtm estimates were calculated from observed saturation and SCs. Results: Saturation and SCs for both modalities of continuous dialysis and hemofiltration and IHD with high permeability hemodiafilters were small. Nonetheless, during continuous RRT with high dialysate and ultrafiltration rates, dalbavancin CLtm (0.20–1.26 ml/min) matched and often exceeded literature-derived dalbavancin renal clearances. Dalbavancin CLtm was undetectable during IHD with low-permeability hemodialyzers, but with high-permeability hemodialyzers, substantial CLtm (1.90–2.43 ml/min) was noted. Conclusion: Dalbavancin CLtm is dependent on RRT modality, hemodiafilter, and effluent flow. Dalbavancin doses may need to be adjusted depending on RRT parameters.
Knockdown of Cyclophilin D Gene by RNAi Protects Rat from Ischemia/ Reperfusion-Induced Renal Injury
Authors: Hu Wei , Chen Zhiqiang , Ye Zhangqun , Xia Ding , Xia Zhongyu , Ma Jiefeng , Zhu Min , Chen Gang
Published: June 2010

Background/Aims: Mitochondrial permeability transition has a critical role in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced kidney injury. It is thought that mitochondrial permeability transition occurs after the opening of the permeability transition pore, a channel which putatively consists of a voltage-dependent anion channel, adenine nucleotide translocator and cyclophilin D (CypD). Much evidence shows that CypD plays an important role in I/R-induced injury. Methods: To evaluate the role of CypD following I/R renal injury, we tested the hypothesis that knockdown of CypD gene by RNA interference (RNAi) protects rat from I/R-induced renal injury. Results: Our data show that knockdown of CypD by RNAi protects normal rat kidney cell line from hypoxia-induced necrotic death. Infection of lentivirus expressing CypD RNAi sequence produces a significant reduction of CypD at both mRNA and protein levels. Both pathologic and biochemical analyses show that knockdown of CypD by RNAi protects rat kidney from I/R-induced renal injury. Conclusion: Our study provides the evidence that CypD may be a potential target for protecting I/R-induced renal injury.
Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Antagonism Attenuates Abnormalities in Dynamic Renal Blood Flow Autoregulation in Rats with Endotoxin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Nitescu Nicoletta , DiBona Gerald F. , Grimberg Elisabeth , Guron Gregor
Published: June 2010

Background: The aim was to examine the role of angiotensin II type 1 receptors in dynamic autoregulation of renal blood flow (RBF) in endotoxemia. Methods: Experiments were performed on anesthetized rats 16 h after intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or vehicle administration. After baseline measurements, groups Sham-Saline, LPS-Saline and LPS-Candesartan received isotonic saline or candesartan (10 µg kg–1 i.v.). Data were collected during eight consecutive 20-min clearance periods (C1–8). Transfer function (TF) analysis in the frequency domain was used to examine dynamic autoregulation of RBF. Results: Endotoxemic rats showed an approximate 50% reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and RBF (p < 0.05 vs. Sham-Saline). Candesartan significantly increased RBF (+40 ± 6% vs. baseline; p < 0.05) but did not significantly influence GFR. Endotoxemic animals showed a normal myogenic response but had elevated TF gain values in the frequency range of the tubuloglomerular feedback mechanism (TGF; 0.01–0.03 Hz) reflecting impaired autoregulation (periods C3–4, 2.2 ± 1.6 vs. –2.6 ± 0.6 dB, p < 0.05, and C7–8, –0.4 ± 1.3 vs. –4.0 ± 0.8 dB, p < 0.05; in groups LPS-Saline and Sham-Saline, respectively). Candesartan normalized TF gain in this frequency range (periods C7–8, –6.1 ± 2.3 dB in group LPS-Candesartan, p < 0.05 vs. LPS-Saline). Conclusion: Candesartan ameliorates the adverse effect of endotoxin on the TGF component of dynamic autoregulation of RBF.
Renoprotective Effects of Various Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers in Patients with Early-Stage Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Nakamura Tsukasa , Fujiwara Nobuharu , Sato Eiichi , Ueda Yoshihiko , Sugaya Takeshi , Koide Hikaru
Published: June 2010

Background: There is increasing evidence that inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system provides renoprotection independent of blood pressure lowering. The aim of the present study was to determine whether various angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) affect urinary albumin excretion (UAE), urinary liver-type fatty acid-binding protein (L-FABP) and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels in early-stage diabetic nephropathy patients with microalbuminuria. Methods: Sixty-eight diabetic nephropathy patients with microalbuminuria were randomly allocated to 1 of 4 treatment groups: losartan 100 mg/day (group A), candesartan 12 mg/day (group B), olmesartan 40 mg/day (group C), or telmisartan 80 mg/day (group D). Treatment was continued for 12 months. UAE, L-FABP and 8-OHdG excretion, serum creatinine, and 24-hour creatinine clearance (Ccr) were measured. Results: The serum creatinine and 24-hour Ccr were not affected during the experimental period in any of the groups. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures, UAE, urinary L-FABP and 8-OHdG excretion were significantly reduced after 6 and 12 months compared with baseline in any of the groups. ΔL-FABP and Δ8-OHdG were significantly greater in group D than in the other 3 groups after 12 months. Conclusions: ARBs have renoprotection and this effect of telmisartan appears to be more potent than that of losartan, candesartan, or olmesartan in early-stage diabetic nephropathy patients.
Treatment of Hemodialysis-Associated Adynamic Bone Disease with Teriparatide (PTH1–34): A Pilot Study
Authors: Cejka Daniel , Kodras Katharina , Bader Till , Haas Martin
Published: June 2010

Background: Adynamic bone disease (ABD) is caused by a relative or absolute parathyroid hormone (PTH) deficiency. Teriparatide (PTH1–34) is an osteoanabolic agent in clinical use. Here, it was hypothesized that treatment with teriparatide improves bone mineral density (BMD) of ABD patients. Patients and Methods: Seven hemodialysis patients with ABD and a median iPTH level of 22 pg/ml were evaluated in this open-label, prospective, 6-month observational pilot-study. All patients received 20 µg teriparatide/day subcutaneously. Serologic bone markers, BMD and coronary artery calcification (CAC) were measured at baseline and after 6 months. Results: Teriparatide therapy led to a significant increase in lumbar spine (0.885 ± 0.08 vs. 0.914 ± 0.09 g/cm2, p < 0.02), but not femoral neck (0.666 ± 0.170 vs. 0.710 ± 0.189 g/cm2, p = 0.18) BMD. Compared to pretreatment values, calculated monthly changes in BMD improved significantly in both the lumbar spine and femoral neck (p < 0.02). Changes in serologic markers of bone turnover and CAC scores were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Teriparatide therapy might improve low BMD in hemodialysis patients with ABD. Further clinical studies are needed to establish teriparatide as a therapeutic option for dialysis patients with ABD.
Trigeminal Nucleus Caudalis Anatomy: Guidance for Radiofrequency Dorsal Root Entry Zone Lesioning
Authors: Sandwell Stephen E. , El-Naggar Amr O. , Nettleton G. Stephen , Acland Robert D.
Published: June 2010

Object: This study seeks to improve the accuracy of trigeminal nucleus caudalis dorsal root entry zone (DREZ) radiofrequency lesioning by quantifying the size and orientation of the nucleus caudalis. Methods: Using serial axial photographs of 6 formalin-fixed cadaver brainstems, digital nucleus caudalis measurements were taken at 1-mm intervals from the level of the obex to the C2 dorsal nerve roots. Results: From the obex to the C2 dorsal nerve roots, the nucleus caudalis decreases in width (from 2.6 ± 0.2 to 1.0 ± 0.3 mm) and, excluding superficial tract thickness, decreases in axial nucleus depth (from 2.4 ± 0.3 to 1.7 ± 0.2 mm). At levels between the obex and 10 mm caudal to the obex, the accessory nerve rootlets exit the brainstem at the junction of the spinal trigeminal tract and the dorsal spinocerebellar tract. Conclusion: This study details the anatomic dimensions and orientation of the nucleus caudalis for surgeons who perform DREZ lesioning.
Long-Term Benefit Sustained after Bilateral Pallidal Deep Brain Stimulation in Patients with Refractory Tardive Dystonia
Authors: Chang Edward F. , Schrock Lauren E. , Starr Philip A. , Ostrem Jill L.
Published: June 2010

Background/Aims: Tardive dystonia (TD) can be a highly disabling, permanent condition related to the use of dopamine-receptor-blocking medications. Our aim was to evaluate the long-term effect of bilateral pallidal deep brain stimulation (DBS) for TD. Methods: Five consecutive patients with disabling TD who underwent stereotactic placement of bilateral globus pallidus internus DBS leads were included. All patients had a history of mood disorder or schizophrenia previously treated with neuroleptic medication, with a mean duration of motor symptoms of 10.2 years. Dystonia severity was measured using the Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale (BFMDRS) movement score by a blinded neurologist reviewing pre- and postoperative videotaped examinations. Results: The mean baseline movement BFMDRS score was 49.7 (range 20–88). Overall, we observed a mean reduction of 62% in the BFMDRS movement score within the first year after surgery. Persistent improvement in dystonia (71%) was seen at the last follow-up ranging from 2 to 8 years after surgery. Conclusion: Our experience suggests that pallidal DBS can be an effective therapy with long-term benefits for patients with TD.
Regulation of Circulating Progenitor Cells in Left Ventricular Dysfunction
Authors: Boilson Barry A. , Larsen Katarina , Harbuzariu Adriana , Delacroix Sinny , Korinek Josef , Froehlich Harald , Bailey Kent R. , Scott Christopher G. , Shapiro Brian P. , Boerrigter Guido , Chen Horng H. , Redfield Margaret M. , Burnett John C. , Simari Robert D.
Published: June 2010

Background—

Reductions in numbers of circulating progenitor cells (CD34+ cell subsets) have been demonstrated in patients at risk for, or in the presence of, cardiovascular disease. The mediators of these reductions remain undefined. To determine whether neurohumoral factors might regulate circulating CD34+ cell subsets in vivo, we studied complementary canine models of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction.

Methods and Results—

A pacing model of severe LV dysfunction and a hypertensive renal wrap model in which dogs were randomized to receive deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) were studied. Circulating CD34+ cell subsets including hematopoietic precursor cells (HPCs: CD34+/CD45
dim
/VEGFR2−) and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs: CD34+/CD45−/VEGFR2+) were quantified. Additionally, the effect of mineralocorticoid excess on circulating progenitor cells in normal dogs was studied. The majority of circulating CD34+ cells expressed CD45dimly and did not express VEGFR2, consistent with an HPC phenotype. HPCs were decreased in response to pacing, and this decrease correlated with plasma aldosterone levels (Spearman rank correlation=−0.67,
P
=0.03). In the hypertensive renal wrap model, administration of DOCA resulted in decreased HPCs. No changes were seen in EPCs in either model. Normal dogs treated with DOCA exhibited a decrease in HPCs in peripheral blood but not bone marrow associated with decreased telomerase activity.

Conclusions—

This is the first study to demonstrate that mineralocorticoid excess, either endogenous or exogenous, results in reduction in HPCs. These data suggest that mineralocorticoids may induce accelerated senescence of progenitor cells, leading to their reduced survival and decline in numbers.
BNP Levels Predict Outcome in Pediatric Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Auerbach Scott R. , Richmond Marc E. , Lamour Jacqueline M. , Blume Elizabeth D. , Addonizio Linda J. , Shaddy Robert E. , Mahony Lynn , Pahl Elfriede , Hsu Daphne T.
Published: June 2010

Background—

The ability of serum B-type natriuretic peptide levels (BNP) to predict outcomes in children with heart failure (HF) has not been well demonstrated. This study was designed to determine whether BNP levels predict outcomes in patients with moderate symptomatic HF.

Methods and Results—

We investigated whether enrollment BNP levels for the Pediatric Carvedilol Trial were associated with baseline characteristics. Freedom from a composite end point of HF hospitalization, death, or transplantation at 9 months was compared using a threshold BNP level identified using receiver operating curve analysis. Median BNP level was 110 pg/mL (interquartile range, 22.4 to 342.0 pg/mL) in 138 subjects. Median age was 3.4 years (interquartile range, 1.1 to 11.0 years). Diagnoses were cardiomyopathy (60%) and congenital heart disease (40%); 73% had a systemic left ventricle. BNP levels correlated moderately with left ventricular ejection fraction (
R
=0.39,
P
<0.001) but did not differ by HF class, age, diagnosis, sex, ventricular morphology, or left ventricular end-diastolic dimension
Z
-score (
R
=0.19). Outcome events included 25 HF hospitalizations, 4 deaths, and 2 transplants. Sensitivity was 71% and specificity 63%, for a BNP cutoff value of 140 pg/mL. BNP ≥140 pg/mL (hazard ratio, 3.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.62 to 8.4;
P
=0.002) and age >2 years (hazard ratio, 4.45; 95% confidence interval, 1.68 to 12.04;
P
=0.003) were independently associated with worse outcomes.

Conclusions—

In children with moderately symptomatic HF, BNP ≥140 pg/mL and age >2 years identified subjects at higher risk for worse outcome. Further validation is needed to determine the BNP levels necessary to stratify risk in other pediatric cohorts.
Using a Discriminant Analysis to Classify Urban and Rural Climate Stations Based on Diurnal Range of Temperature and Dewpoint Depression
Authors: Brown Paula J. , DeGaetano Arthur T.
Published: June 2010

Most climatological datasets are beset with urban temperature influences that distort long-term trends. Using an hourly dataset of 41 urban and rural stations from the United States, discriminant functions were developed using diurnal temperature range indices based on temperature, dewpoint, and dewpoint depression that capture the differences between the two environments. Based on data for 1997–2006, diurnal temperature range and nighttime dewpoint depression range indices provide the best classification variables to statistically discriminate between urban and rural climates. Of the 41 stations, 93% were correctly classified by this technique in a cross-validation analysis. An additional discriminant analysis specific to coastal stations was needed because coastal climates were noted to be aberrant. Here, all stations tested were correctly classified by the procedure. Temporal trends in discriminant scores indicate periods of time during which urbanization was occurring or increasing. Instrumental and location changes were noted to affect both temperature and dewpoint series and therefore the classification. However, such discontinuities can potentially be adjusted and the homogenized data used with the classification technique. The use of this data-driven approach complements existing methods used to classify the urban character of stations, because it is objective, is applicable in the presatellite era, and can infer changes at higher temporal resolution.
Interactions among ENSO, the Monsoon, and Diurnal Cycle in Rainfall Variability over Java, Indonesia
Authors: Qian Jian-Hua , Robertson Andrew W. , Moron Vincent
Published: June 2010

Using a high-resolution regional climate model—the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics Regional Climate Model version 3 (RegCM3)—and station and satellite observations, the authors have studied the spatial heterogeneity of climate variability over Java Island, Indonesia. Besides the well-known anomalous dry conditions that characterize the dry and transition seasons during an El Niño year, analysis of regional model output reveals a wet mountainous south versus dry northern plains in precipitation anomalies associated with El Niño over Java during the peak rainy season. Modeling experiments indicate that this mountains/plains contrast is caused by the interaction of the El Niño–induced monsoonal wind anomalies and the island/mountain-induced local diurnal cycle of winds and precipitation. During the wet season of El Niño years, anomalous southeasterly winds over the Indonesian region oppose the climatological northwesterly monsoon, thus reducing the strength of the monsoon winds over Java. This weakening is found to amplify the local diurnal cycle of land–sea breezes and mountain–valley winds, producing more rainfall over the mountains, which are located closer to the southern coast than to the northern coast. Therefore, the variability of the diurnal cycle associated with this local spatial asymmetry of topography is the underlying cause for the heterogeneous pattern of wet south/dry north rainfall anomalies during El Niño years. It is further shown that the mean southeasterly wind anomalies during December–February of El Niño years result from more frequent occurrence of a quiescent monsoon weather type, during which the strengthened sea-breeze and valley-breeze convergence leads to above normal rainfall over the mountains.
Genesis of Typhoon Chanchu (2006) from a Westerly Wind Burst Associated with the MJO. Part I: Evolution of a Vertically Tilted Precursor Vortex
Authors: Hogsett Wallace , Zhang Da-Lin
Published: June 2010

Although previous studies have shown the relationship between the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) and tropical cyclogenesis (TCG), many scale-interactive processes leading to TCG still remain mysterious. In this study, the larger-scale flow structures and evolution during the pregenesis, genesis, and intensification of Typhoon Chanchu (2006) near the equator are analyzed using NCEP’s final analysis, satellite observations, and 11-day nested numerical simulations with the Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecast model (ARW-WRF). Results show that the model could reproduce the structures and evolution of a synoptic westerly wind burst (WWB) associated with the MJO during the genesis of Chanchu, including the eastward progression of a WWB from the Indian Ocean into the Pacific Ocean, the modulation of the associated quasi-symmetric vortices, the initial slow spinup of a northern (pre-Chanchu) disturbance at the northeastern periphery of the WWB, and its general track and intensification.

It is found that the MJO, likely together with a convectively coupled Kelvin wave, provides the necessary low-level convergence and rotation for the development of the pre-Chanchu disturbance, particularly through the eastward-propagating WWB. The incipient vortex evolves slowly westward, like a mixed Rossby–gravity wave, on the northern flank of the WWB, exhibits a vertically westward-tilted circulation structure, and eventually moves northward off of the equator. Results show that the interaction of the tilted vortex with moist easterly flows assists in the downtilt-right (i.e., to the right of the upward tilt) organization of deep convection, which in turn forces the tilted vortex to move toward the area of ongoing deep convection, thereby helping to partly decrease the vertical tilt with time. It is shown that despite several days of continuous convective overturning, sustained surface intensification does not commence until the vortex becomes upright in the vertical. A conceptual model is finally presented, relating the decreasing vortex tilt to convective development, storm movement, TCG, and surface intensification.
Dyadic ties among employees: Empirical analysis of creative performance and efficiency
Authors: Fliaster Alexander , Schloderer Florian
Published: June 2010

Our article makes three contributions to the literature. First, while previous research on creativity and innovation has focused on individuals and teams, we investigate creative dyads. Second, we consider not only benefits that knowledge workers gain from resourceful partners but also tie-related costs that both partners incur. As a result we develop a research framework in which a dyad’s creative performance is explained by the amount of knowledge that the tie partners exchange, the level of responsiveness among them, and the efficiency of knowledge-related collaboration. We test empirically hypotheses drawn from this framework, collecting data on 1128 possible non-directed ties among employees directly involved in the new product development of a medium-sized German aerospace company and analyzing these data using the Multiple Regression Quadratic Assignment Procedure (MRQAP). In the final sections we discuss managerial consequences, limitations of our study, and directions of future research.
Determination of In-plane Shear Strength of Unidirectional Composite Materials Using the Off-axis Three-point Flexure and Off-axis Tensile Tests
Authors: Vargas G. , Mujika F.
Published: June 2010

The aim of this work is to compare from an experimental point of view the determination of in-plane shear strength of unidirectional composite materials by means of two off-axis tests: three-point flexure and tensile. In the case of the off-axis three-point flexure test, the condition of small displacements and the condition of lift-off between the specimen and the fixture supports have been taken into account. Some considerations regarding stress and displacement fields are presented. The in-plane shear characterization has been performed on a carbon fiber reinforced unidirectional laminate with several fiber orientation angles: 10°, 20°, 30°, and 45°. Test conditions for both off-axis experimental methods, in order to ensure their applicability, are presented. Off-axis flexure test is considered more suitable than off-axis tensile test for the determination of in-plane shear strength.
Effects of an Open Hole on the Biaxial Strengths of Composite Laminates
Authors: Yuanchen Huang  , Ha Sung K. , Koyanagi Jun , Melo Jose Daniel D. , Kumazawa Hisashi , Susuki Ippei
Published: June 2010

Experimental biaxial data are essential to validate failure criteria for composite laminates. In this study an optimized design of cruciform specimen used for in-plane biaxial loading was proposed. The uniformity of strain field in the gauge region of the smooth specimen under biaxial loadings was confirmed via finite element analysis. Both smooth and open-hole specimens fabricated by π/4 quasi-isotropic carbon epoxy laminates were tested under three different biaxial stress schemes, where stresses {σx, σy} are expressed in normalized forms as {1, 0}, {1, 1}, and {1, -1}, respectively. The relations between far-field stresses and global biaxial loadings were established based on test data, and the strengths of both smooth and open-hole specimens under different biaxial loading schemes were acquired. Digital image correlation (DIC) technique was employed to measure strain field in the neighborhood of the central hole of the open-hole specimens during test, and the measurements were compared with strain distribution obtained from numerical simulations. Good agreement between DIC images and FEA results was achieved. First-ply-failure (FPF) envelopes based on micro-mechanics of failure (MMF) for both smooth and open-hole cases were drawn and compared with test data.