bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Femtosecond Laser System for Attosecond Pulse Generation
Authors: Zhu Jianqiang , Xie Xinglong , Sun Meizhi , Bi Qunyu , Kang Jun
Published: January 2012

We report a novel ultrabroadband high-energy femtosecond laser to be built in our laboratory. A 7-femtosecond pulse is firstly stretched by an eight-pass offner stretcher with a chirp rate 15 ps/nm, and then energy-amplified by a two-stage optical parametric chirped pulse amplification (OPCPA). The first stage as preamplification with three pieces of BBO crystals provides the majority of the energy gain. At the second stage, a YCOB crystal with the aperture of ~50 mm is used instead of the KDP crystal as the gain medium to ensure the shortest pulse. After the completion, the laser will deliver about 8 J with pulse duration of about 10 femtoseconds, which should be beneficial to the attosecond pulse generation and other ultrafast experiments.
Surface Chemistry of Aluminium Alloy Slid against Steel Lubricated by Organic Friction Modifier in Hydrocarbon Oil
Authors: Minami Ichiro , Sugibuchi Ayumi
Published: January 2012

The lubrication mechanism of aluminium alloy slid against steel was investigated from the standpoint of surface chemistry. Low friction and low wear were observed using glycerol mono-olate in a hydrocarbon as lubricant. Increase in the silicon content in the aluminium alloy during rubbing was observed by surface analyses using (1) Auger electron spectroscopy, (2) scanning electron microscopy along with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and (3) X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Mild removal of the passive state (aluminium oxide) from the uppermost surface by the additive during the running-in process was proposed as the lubrication mechanism. The importance of additive chemistry that improves the running-in process was pointed out.
Full-Wave Analysis of Traveling-Wave Field-Effect Transistors Using Finite-Difference Time-Domain Method
Authors: Narahara Koichi
Published: January 2012

Nonlinear transmission lines, which define transmission lines periodically loaded with nonlinear devices such as varactors, diodes, and transistors, are modeled in the framework of finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. Originally, some root-finding routine is needed to evaluate the contributions of nonlinear device currents appropriately to the temporally advanced electrical fields. Arbitrary nonlinear transmission lines contain large amount of nonlinear devices; therefore, it costs too much time to complete calculations. To reduce the calculation time, we recently developed a simple model of diodes to eliminate root-finding routines in an FDTD solver. Approximating the diode current-voltage relation by a piecewise-linear function, an extended Ampere's law is solved in a closed form for the time-advanced electrical fields. In this paper, we newly develop an FDTD model of field-effect transistors (FETs), together with several numerical examples that demonstrate pulse-shortening phenomena in a traveling-wave FET.
Utility of Surgeon-Performed Ultrasound Assessment of the Lateral Neck for Metastatic Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Lee Cortney Y. , Snyder Samuel K. , Lairmore Terry C. , Dupont Sean C. , Jupiter Daniel C.
Published: January 2012

Ultrasound is the recommended staging modality for papillary thyroid cancer. Surgeons proficient in US assessment of the neck and experienced in the management of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) appear uniquely qualified to assess the lateral cervical lymph nodes for metastatic disease. Of 310 patients treated for PTC between 2000 and 2008, 109 underwent surgeon-performed ultrasound (SUS) of the lateral neck preoperatively. Fine needle aspiration was performed on suspicious lateral lymph nodes. SUS findings were compared with FNA cytology and results of postoperative imaging studies. The sensitivity and negative predictive value of SUS were 88% and 97%, respectively. Four patients were found to have missed metastatic disease within 6 months. No patient underwent a nontherapeutic neck dissection. SUS combined with US-guided FNA of suspicious lymph nodes can accurately stage PTC to reliably direct surgical management.
Infraeyebrow Blepharoplasty for Blepharochalasis of the Upper Eyelid: Its Indication and Priority
Authors: Sugamata Akira
Published: January 2012

Eyelid bags and blepharochalasis are the result of relaxation of lid structures like the skin, the orbicularis oculi, and mainly the orbital septum. Therefore, this aged appearance cannot be improved sufficiently with only a skin and orbicularis oculi resection. To improve this appearance, we use a very effective method of tucking of the orbital septum with infraeyebrow excision of the skin and the orbicularis oculi. Between January 2005 and April 2011, 103 patients (206 lids) were treated. There were 89 female and 14 male patients whose ages ranged from 43 to 75 years (mean = 65.2 years). After infraeyebrow excision, blepharoplasty with tucking of the orbital septum, the concealed lid crease becomes apparent and a good rejuvenation effect is obtained in all patients.
Upregulation of miR-196a andHOTAIRDrive Malignant Character in Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Niinuma Takeshi , Suzuki Hiromu , Nojima Masanori , Nosho Katsuhiko , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Takamaru Hiroyuki , Yamamoto Eiichiro , Maruyama Reo , Nobuoka Takayuki , Miyazaki Yasuaki , Nishida Toshirou , Bamba Takeo , Kanda Tatsuo , Ajioka Yoichi , Taguchi Takahiro , Okahara Satoshi , Takahashi Hiroaki , Nishida Yasunori , Hosokawa Masao , Hasegawa Tadashi , Tokino Takashi , Hirata Koichi , Imai Kohzoh , Toyota Minoru , Shinomura Yasuhisa
Published: January 2012

Large intergenic noncoding RNAs (lincRNA) have been less studied than miRNAs in cancer, although both offer considerable theranostic potential. In this study, we identified frequent upregulation of miR-196a and lincRNA HOTAIR in high-risk gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). Overexpression of miR-196a was associated with high-risk grade, metastasis and poor survival among GIST specimens. miR-196a genes are located within the HOX gene clusters and microarray expression analysis revealed that the HOXC and HOTAIR gene were also coordinately upregulated in GISTs which overexpress miR-196a. In like manner, overexpression of HOTAIR was also strongly associated with high-risk grade and metastasis among GIST specimens. RNA interference–mediated knockdown of HOTAIR altered the expression of reported HOTAIR target genes and suppressed GIST cell invasiveness. These findings reveal concurrent overexpression of HOX genes with noncoding RNAs in human cancer in this setting, revealing miR-196a and HOTAIR as potentially useful biomarkers and therapeutic targets in malignant GISTs. Cancer Res; 72(5); 1126–36. ©2012 AACR.
Microsatellite Instability and DNA Mismatch Repair Protein Deficiency in Lynch Syndrome Colorectal Polyps
Authors: Yurgelun Matthew B. , Goel Ajay , Hornick Jason L. , Sen Ananda , Turgeon Danielle Kim , Ruffin Mack T. , Marcon Norman E. , Baron John A. , Bresalier Robert S. , Syngal Sapna , Brenner Dean E. , Boland C. Richard , Stoffel Elena M.
Published: January 2012

Colorectal cancers associated with Lynch syndrome are characterized by deficient DNA mismatch repair (MMR) function. Our aim was to evaluate the prevalence of microsatellite instability (MSI) and loss of MMR protein expression in Lynch syndrome–associated polyps. Sixty-two colorectal polyps—37 adenomatous polyps, 23 hyperplastic polyps, and 2 sessile serrated polyps (SSP)—from 34 subjects with germline MMR gene mutations were tested for MSI using a single pentaplex PCR for five mononucleotide repeat microsatellite markers, and also for expression of MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 proteins by immunohistochemistry. High-level MSI (MSI-H) was seen in 15 of 37 (41%) adenomatous polyps, one of 23 (4%) hyperplastic polyps, and one of two (50%) SSPs. Loss of MMR protein expression was seen in 18 of 36 (50%) adenomatous polyps, zero of 21 hyperplastic polyps, and zero of two SSPs. Adenomatous polyps 8 mm or larger in size were significantly more likely to show MSI-H [OR, 9.98; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.52–65.65; P = 0.02] and deficient MMR protein expression (OR, 3.17; 95% CI, 1.20–8.37; P = 0.02) compared with those less than 8 mm in size. All (six of six) adenomatous polyps 10 mm or larger in size showed both MSI-H and loss of MMR protein expression by immunohistochemistry. Our finding that the prevalence of MMR deficiency increases with the size of adenomatous polyps suggests that loss of MMR function is a late event in Lynch syndrome–associated colorectal neoplasia. Although testing large adenomatous polyps may be of value in the diagnostic evaluation of patients with suspected Lynch syndrome, the absence of an MMR-deficient phenotype in an adenoma cannot be considered as a strong evidence against Lynch syndrome, as it is with colorectal carcinomas. Cancer Prev Res; 5(4); 574–82. ©2012 AACR.
The Antimicrobial Peptide hLF1–11 Drives Monocyte-Dendritic Cell Differentiation toward Dendritic Cells That Promote Antifungal Responses and Enhance Th17 Polarization
Authors: van der Does Anne M. , Joosten Simone A. , Vroomans Evy , Bogaards Sylvia J.P. , van Meijgaarden Krista E. , Ottenhoff Tom H.M. , van Dissel Jaap T. , Nibbering Peter H.
Published: January 2012

The hLF1–11 peptide comprising the first 11 N-terminal residues of human lactoferrin exerts antimicrobial activity in vivo, enhances the inflammatory response of monocytes and directs monocyte-macrophage differentiation toward cells with enhanced antimicrobial properties. In this study, we investigated the effects of hLF1–11 on human monocyte-dendritic cell (DC) differentiation and subsequent T cell activation. Results revealed that – compared to control (peptide-incubated) DCs – hLF1–11-differentiated DCs displayed enhanced expression of HLA class II antigens and dectin-1, and increased phagocytosis of Candida albicans. In addition, hLF1–11-differentiated DCs produced enhanced amounts of reactive oxygen species, IL-6 and IL-10, but not IL-12p40 and TNF-α, upon stimulation with C. albicans. Moreover, 6-day-cultured hLF1–11-differentiated DCs and control (peptide-incubated) DCs that had been stimulated with a Th17-inducing mix of antigens (including C. albicans) for 24 h were cocultured with autologous CD4+ T cells for 72 h and then the levels of IL-10, IL-17 and IFN-γ production and the percentage of cytokine-producing T cells were assessed. The results revealed that the hLF1–11-differentiated DCs induced an enhanced IL-17, but reduced IFN-γ, production by T cells as compared to control (peptide-incubated) DCs. Collectively, the hLF1–11 peptide drives monocyte-DC differentiation toward DCs that promote antifungal responses and enhance Th17 polarization.
Structural MRI in Normal Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease: White and Black Spots
Authors: Cavalieri Margherita , Schmidt Helena , Schmidt Reinhold
Published: January 2012

Background: White matter changes (WMC) and microbleeds (MBs) are common in the elderly and in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Objective: To describe the prevalence, anatomical distribution and longitudinal changes of WMC and MBs in normal aging subjects compared to AD patients and to describe current evidence of their effects on the clinical course of AD. Methods: Short literature review. Results: WMC and MBs are more frequent and progress more rapidly in AD patients than in cognitively normal elderly. New MBs occur in up to one quarter of AD cases without any therapeutic intervention. WMC and MBs influence the clinical course of AD. Conclusion: WMC and MBs might represent treatment targets in clinical trials on AD.
A New Approach: Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection Using the Clutch Cutter® for Early Stage Digestive Tract Tumors
Authors: Akahoshi Kazuya , Akahane Hidefumi , Motomura Yasuaki , Kubokawa Masaru , Itaba Syouichi , Komori Keishi , Nakama Naotaka , Oya Masafumi , Nakamura Kazuhiko
Published: January 2012

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is accepted as minimally invasive therapy for early stage digestive tract tumors. It has allowed the achievement of histologically curative en-bloc resection of early stage digestive tract tumors regardless of size, including the resection of previously non-resectable tumors. Although numerous electrosurgical knives have been developed for ESD, technical difficulties and high complication rates (bleeding and perforation) have limited their use worldwide. Furthermore, conventional ESD usually needs several devices for each session. We developed the Clutch Cutter® (CC), which can grasp and incise the targeted tissue using electrosurgical current, to resolve such ESD-related problems. The ESD procedure using the CC is as follows: after marking using the CC and the injection of a solution into the submucosa, the lesion is separated from the surrounding normal mucosa by complete incision around the lesion using the CC. A piece of submucosal tissue is grasped and cut with the CC using electrosurgical current to achieve submucosal exfoliation. Intraoperative bleeding is also treated by the CC. Reported clinical studies showed that ESD using the CC is a safe, simple, easy-to-learn, technically efficient (en-bloc resection rate 100%), and a single-device method for the dissection of early stage digestive tract tumors. This new approach is promising to become the worldwide method of choice for early stage digestive tract tumors because it is technically simple and safe to perform.
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Undifferentiated Early Gastric Cancer as the Expanded Indication Lesion
Authors: Kamada Kazuhiro , Tomatsuri Naoya , Yoshida Norimasa
Published: January 2012

Background: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has become the standard endoscopic treatment for early gastric cancer without lymph node metastasis. At present, undifferentiated type intramucosal cancers without ulcer findings <20 mm in size are often chosen as endoscopic treatment lesions for expanded indication. The purpose of this study was to examine the outcome of ESD treatment in undifferentiated carcinomas. Method: Forty-six patients who had undergone ESD from July 2002 until July 2010, where the final pathological diagnosis was undifferentiated carcinoma, were assessed for the en-bloc resection ratio, the accuracy rate of depth or extent of diagnosis and survival. Results: In endoscopic ultrasonography studies, the accuracy rate of mucosal lesions was 86%. The rate of en-bloc resection was 91% (42/46) and 5 cases had a positive margin. Four cases had a positive margin in cases of piecemeal resection. Five cases underwent additional surgery, and residual cancer was found in 1 case. There were 2 cases of perforation, 2 of delayed hemorrhage, and no cases of delayed perforation. One case died of multiple liver metastases and 1 died of hepatocellular carcinoma. After a maximum of 8 years, an average of 3.8 years of observation, including 7 cases who had undergone additional surgery, recurrence occurred in only 1 case of liver metastasis. Conclusion: In this study the lesions of undifferentiated adenocarcinoma, which were limited to the mucosa, <20 mm in diameter and had been completely resected, showed no recurrence and were indicated for endoscopic treatment.
Endoscopic and Histopathological Evaluation of Collagenous Colitis
Authors: Narabayashi Ken , Murano Mitsuyuki , Egashira Yutaro , Noda Sadaharu , Kawakami Ken , Ishida Kumi , Kuramoto Takanori , Abe Yosuke , Inoue Takuya , Murano Naoko , Tokioka Satoshi , Takii Michiaki , Umegaki Eiji , Higuchi Kazuhide
Published: January 2012

Collagenous colitis (CC) is a well-known cause of chronic non-bloody diarrhea, especially in elderly women. CC is characterized histopathologically by an increase in the thickness of the subepithelial collagen layer to at least 10 µm, epithelial damage, and chronic inflammation of the lamina propria. Generally, the colonic mucosa in CC is macroscopically normal, although minor, non-specific abnormalities may be found. Due to the recent advancement of endoscopic and diagnostic technologies, however, microscopic mucosal abnormalities and specific longitudinal linear lacerations of the mucosa characteristic of CC have been identified. The association of CC with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and proton pump inhibitors has also been reported. Since definitive diagnosis of CC has to rely on pathologically documented collagen bands and mononuclear infiltration, the efficiency and precision of colonic biopsy need to be improved. Of the 29 CC patients that we have encountered at our institution, it was in 15 of 29 cases that the endoscopic finding that we performed a biopsy on was apparent. Our comparison of the endoscopic and histopathological findings of CC in the 15 patients showed that the mucosa frequently appeared coarse and nodular on the surface of the mucosa, which was also significantly thicker in collagen bands, demonstrating a strong correlation between collagen band formation and CC. Also, the coarse and nodular surface of the mucosa was most frequently seen affecting the proximal colon. The results suggest that endoscopic observation and biopsy of the proximal colon, where a coarse and nodular surface of the mucosa is often found, may be useful for confirmation of the diagnosis in patients with suspected CC.
Serum Vitamin D Deficiency as a Predictor of Incident Non-Alzheimer Dementias: A 7-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Annweiler C. , Rolland Y. , Schott A.M. , Blain H. , Vellas B. , Beauchet O.
Published: January 2012

Background: Hypovitaminosis D has been cross-sectionally associated with dementia and stroke. The objective of this longitudinal study was to determine whether serum vitamin D deficiency at baseline could predict the onset of non-Alzheimer dementias (NAD) within 7 years among older women. Methods: Forty high-functioning older women (78.4 years, 76.4/82.0; median, 25th/75th percentile) from the EPIDOS Toulouse study were divided into two groups based on vitamin D deficiency (i.e., serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D <10 ng/ml) at baseline. At the end of the 7-year follow-up period, women matching the DSM-IV but not the NINCDS-ADRDA criteria were diagnosed with NAD while those matching the NINCDS-ADRDA criteria were considered to have Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Subtle cognitive impairments at baseline, cardiovascular risk factors and Parkinson’s disease were used as potential confounders. Results: NAD was reported in 6 women (82.8 years, 80.6/86.0) after 7 years of follow-up. More NAD were observed in women with vitamin D deficiency (p = 0.023). There was no between-group difference regarding the onset of AD (p = 0.332). We found an association between vitamin D deficiency at baseline and the onset of NAD (adjusted odds ratio = 19.57, p = 0.042). Conversely, vitamin D deficiency was not associated with AD (p = 0.222). Conclusion: Baseline vitamin D deficiency predicted the onset of NAD within 7 years among older women.
Development, Maturation, and Transdifferentiation of Cardiac Sympathetic Nerves
Authors: Kimura Kensuke , Ieda Masaki , Fukuda Keiichi
Published: January 2012

The heart is electrically and mechanically controlled as a syncytium by the autonomic nervous system. The cardiac nervous system comprises the sympathetic, parasympathetic, and sensory nervous systems that together regulate heart function on demand. Sympathetic electric activation was initially considered the main regulator of cardiac function; however, modern molecular biotechnological approaches have provided a new dimension to our understanding of the mechanisms controlling the cardiac nervous system. The heart is extensively innervated, although the innervation density is not uniform within the heart, being high in the subepicardium and the special conduction system. We and others showed previously that the balance between neural chemoattractants and chemorepellents determine cardiac nervous development, with both factors expressed in heart. Nerve growth factor is a potent chemoattractant synthesized by cardiomyocytes, whereas Sema3a is a neural chemorepellent expressed specifically in the subendocardium. Disruption of this well-organized molecular balance and innervation density can induce sudden cardiac death due to lethal arrhythmias. In diseased hearts, various causes and mechanisms underlie cardiac sympathetic abnormalities, although their detailed pathology and significance remain contentious. We reported that cardiac sympathetic rejuvenation occurs in cardiac hypertrophy and, moreover, interleukin-6 cytokines secreted from the failing myocardium induce cholinergic transdifferentiation of the cardiac sympathetic system via a gp130 signaling pathway, affecting cardiac performance and prognosis. In this review, we summarize the molecular mechanisms involved in sympathetic development, maturation, and transdifferentiation, and propose their investigation as new therapeutic targets for heart disease.
Angiogenic Factors and the Risk of Adverse Outcomes in Women With Suspected Preeclampsia
Authors: Rana Sarosh , Powe Camille E. , Salahuddin Saira , Verlohren Stefan , Perschel Frank H. , Levine Richard J. , Lim Kee-Hak , Wenger Julia B. , Thadhani Ravi , Karumanchi S. Ananth
Published: January 2012

Background—

An imbalance in circulating angiogenic factors plays a central role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.

Methods and Results—

We prospectively studied 616 women who were evaluated for suspected preeclampsia. We measured plasma levels of antiangiogenic soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1) and proangiogenic placental growth factor (PlGF) at presentation and examined for an association between the sFlt1/PlGF ratio and subsequent adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes within 2 weeks. The median sFlt1/PlGF ratio at presentation was elevated in participants who experienced any adverse outcome compared with those who did not (47.0 [25th–75th percentile, 15.5–112.2] versus 10.8 [25th–75th percentile, 4.1–28.6];
P
<0.0001). Among those presenting at <34 weeks (n=167), the results were more striking (226.6 [25th–75th percentile, 50.4–547.3] versus 4.5 [25th–75th percentile, 2.0–13.5];
P
<0.0001), and the risk was markedly elevated when the highest sFlt1/PlGF ratio tertile was compared with the lowest (odds ratio, 47.8; 95% confidence interval, 14.6–156.6). Among participants presenting at <34 weeks, the addition of sFlt1/PlGF ratio to hypertension and proteinuria significantly improved the prediction for subsequent adverse outcomes (area under the curve, 0.93 for hypertension, proteinuria, and sFlt1/PlGF versus 0.84 for hypertension and proteinuria alone;
P
=0.001). Delivery occurred within 2 weeks of presentation in 86.0% of women with an sFlt1/PlGF ratio ≥85 compared with 15.8% of women with an sFlt1/PlGF ratio <85 (hazard ratio, 15.2; 95% confidence interval, 8.0–28.7).

Conclusions—

In women with suspected preeclampsia presenting at <34 weeks, circulating sFlt1/PlGF ratio predicts adverse outcomes occurring within 2 weeks. The accuracy of this test is substantially better than that of current approaches and may be useful in risk stratification and management. Additional studies are warranted to validate these findings.
Gene Inactivation of Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 Reduces Atherosclerosis in Mice
Authors: Denis Maxime , Marcinkiewicz Jadwiga , Zaid Ahmed , Gauthier Dany , Poirier Steve , Lazure Claude , Seidah Nabil G. , Prat Annik
Published: January 2012

Background—

The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) promotes independently of its enzymatic activity the degradation of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor. PCSK9 gain of function in humans leads to autosomal dominant hypercholesterolemia, whereas the absence of functional PCSK9 results in ≈7-fold lower levels of LDL cholesterol. This suggests that lowering PCSK9 may protect against atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

We investigated the role of PCSK9 in atherosclerosis in C57BL/6 wild-type (WT), apolipoprotein E–deficient, and LDL receptor–deficient mouse models. Circulating cholesterol levels, fast protein liquid chromatography profiles, aortic cholesteryl esters (CE), and plaque sizes were determined. Intima-media thicknesses were measured by ultrasound biomicroscopy. First, mice expressing null (knockout [KO]), normal (WT), or high (transgenic [Tg]) levels of PCSK9 were fed a 12-month Western diet. KO mice accumulated 4-fold less aortic CE than WT mice, whereas Tg mice exhibited high CE and severe aortic lesions. Next we generated apolipoprotein E–deficient mice, known to spontaneously develop lesions, that expressed null (KO/e), normal (WT/e), or high (Tg/e) levels of PCSK9. After a 6-month regular diet, KO/e mice showed a 39% reduction compared with WT/e mice in aortic CE accumulation, whereas Tg/e mice showed a 137% increase. Finally, LDL receptor–deficient mice expressing no (KO/L), normal (WT/L), or high (Tg/L) levels of PCSK9 were fed a Western diet for 3 months. KO/L and Tg/L mice exhibited levels of plasma cholesterol and CE accumulation similar to those of WT/L mice, suggesting that PCSK9 modulates atherosclerosis mainly via the LDL receptor.

Conclusions—

Altogether, our results show a direct relationship between PCSK9 and atherosclerosis. PCSK9 overexpression is proatherogenic, whereas its absence is protective.
Eddy Diffusivity/Mass Flux and Shallow Cumulus Boundary Layer: An Updraft PDF Multiple Mass Flux Scheme
Authors: Sušelj Kay , Teixeira João , Matheou Georgios
Published: January 2012

In this study, the eddy diffusivity/mass flux (EDMF) approach is used to combine parameterizations of nonprecipitating moist convection and boundary layer turbulence. The novel aspect of this EDMF version is the use of a probability density function (PDF) to describe the moist updraft characteristics. A single bulk dry updraft is initialized at the surface and integrated vertically. At each model level, the possibility of condensation within the updraft is considered based on the PDF of updraft moist conserved variables. If the updraft partially condenses, it is split into moist and dry updrafts, which are henceforth integrated separately. The procedure is repeated at each of the model levels above. The single bulk updraft ends up branching into numerous moist and dry updrafts. With this new approach, the need to define a cloud-base closure is circumvented. This new version of EDMF is implemented in a single-column model (SCM) and evaluated using large-eddy simulation (LES) results for the Barbados Oceanographic and Meteorological Experiment (BOMEX) representing steady-state convection over ocean and the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) case representing time-varying convection over land. The new EDMF scheme is able to represent the properties of shallow cumulus and turbulent fluxes in cumulus-topped boundary layers realistically. The parameterized updraft properties partly account for the behavior of the tail of the PDF of moist conserved variables. It is shown that the scheme is not particularly sensitive to the vertical resolution of the SCM or the main model parameters.
The Spillover Effects of Participatory Governance
Authors: Altschuler Daniel , Corrales Javier
Published: January 2012

In contrast to more pessimistic studies, the authors find evidence that civic participation in one domain of public life can lead to more participation elsewhere, what they call spillover effects. The authors’ findings are based on a large survey—among the broadest in its class—of participants in community-managed schools throughout rural Honduras and Alta Verapaz, Guatemala. Despite various obstacles to spillovers, once initiated, participation can engender further participation. Many participants acquire and apply new skills, and some join new organizations. These spillover effects are stronger if participants receive state support and perceive the participatory arena to be democratic. The authors’ optimism, however, remains guarded: Even where spillovers abound, new groups’ autonomy and scope of action remain limited. In short, participatory governance is not a dead-end affair, but its capacity to strengthen civil society locally is not guaranteed.
How Existing Business Management Concepts Become School Leadership Fashions
Authors: Peck Craig , Reitzug Ulrich C.
Published: January 2012

Purpose: This article examines the history of three management concepts that originated in the business sector and progressed to the K-12 education sector. Framework: We propose a new conceptual model intended to help illuminate how ideas and strategies originally created for business leadership gain influence in the realm of K-12 school leadership. We build upon existing research into the history of educational reform and relevant studies of organizational management fads and fashions. Methods: We focused on three business management concepts that emerged in the past four decades as school leadership fashions: Management by Objectives, Total Quality Management, and Turnaround. We analyzed relevant data by mapping lines of business management influence on school leadership, tabulating fashion-related document appearances in the Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) database, and charting the appearance of business-inspired fashions in consecutive editions of prominent educational leadership textbooks. Findings: An existing business management concept, after a time lag, crosses borders from business to education. Various stakeholders serve as fashion setters who help the incipient innovation become an influential, attention-grabbing school management fashion that receives broad but fleeting attention in K-12 education before fading away as a discarded reform. Over the last four decades, this cyclical process has served as an accumulating fashion trend in which existing (and possibly outdated) business management techniques are routinely positioned as promising, innovative K-12 educational solutions. Implications: We conclude by offering thoughts on implications and suggestions for future study, including asking whether “locally sourced” management innovation can and should exist in K-12 school leadership.
The experiences of professional hospice workers attending creative arts workshops in Gauteng
Authors: van Westrhenena Nadine , Fritz Elzette
Published: January 2012

Object:

This article explores the experiences of professional hospice workers using a creative process for debriefing them in order to facilitate the expression and communication of complex thoughts and feelings. The creative arts workshops were developed with the understanding in mind that caring for terminally ill patients can be challenging and stressful and professional hospice workers are subsequently at risk of developing compassion fatigue. The workshops focussed on skills transfers as well as self-healing by experiencing and teaching a diverse range of creative arts like music, drama, art, touch therapy, storytelling and movement.

Design:

Case study design.

Setting:

Gauteng, South Africa.

Methods:

Data collection included individual interviews with 19 trainees at nine different hospices, focus group interviews, observations during the workshops as well as a researcher journal. Themes were generated through thematic analysis to describe the experiences of the caregivers.

Results:

We found that the expressive arts facilitated communication and self-care and improved the wellbeing of the professional hospice workers.

Conclusion:

These findings add to understanding of the healing effects of the creative arts and especially the benefits in the hospice setting.
Industrial Design and the Czechoslovak Pavilion at EXPO ’58: Artistic Autonomy, Party Control and Cold War Common Ground
Authors: Giustino Cathleen M.
Published: January 2012

The socialist industrial designs displayed in Czechoslovakia’s EXPO ’58 pavilion spoke a visual language understood on both sides of the Iron Curtain, making the pavilion a site of common ground between East and West. The showcase was also a point of convergence between Czechoslovak visual artists and Communist Party authorities who engaged in complex political negotiations in the years after Stalin’s death. Visual artists vied for liberation from socialist realism’s constraints, although they kept their demands within limits to avoid risking Party backlash. Communist Party leaders wanted domestic stability and saw improving the living standard as a tactic for insuring popular support. They increasingly perceived industrial design to be a visual-arts activity with special promise. Well-designed furniture, textiles, glass, ceramics and other consumer goods could generate state income useful for raising the living standard at home and earning hard currency abroad. The Party needed the designers’ cooperation to achieve efficient, attractive production within the command economy. In the Brussels showcase communist authorities compromised with visual artists helping to insure the latter’s support and success, demonstrating that culture in postwar Czechoslovakia was not merely imposed ‘from above’ by omnipotent authorities but could be the outcome of multidirectional negotiations between various competing interests.
Teaching, Rather Than Teachers, As a Path Toward Improving Classroom Instruction
Authors: Hiebert James , Morris Anne K.
Published: January 2012

For several historical and cultural reasons, the United States has long pursued a strategy of improving teaching by improving teachers. The rarely questioned logic underlying this choice says that by improving the right characteristics of teachers, they will teach more effectively. The authors expose the assumptions on which this logic is built, propose an alternative approach to improving teaching that engages teachers (and researchers) directly in the work of improving teaching, present some indirect evidence to support this approach, and examine the cultural traditions and beliefs that have kept the conventional approach in place for so long.
Designing for the Future
Authors: Jurow A. Susan , Tracy Rita , Hotchkiss Jacqueline S. , Kirshner Ben
Published: January 2012

In this article, the authors discuss how they redesigned an educational psychology course for preservice teachers using insights from the burgeoning, interdisciplinary field of the Learning Sciences. Research on the situated nature of learning and the value of out-of-school contexts for supporting children’s development informed their decisions to require preservice teachers to work with children in community-based settings, frame their interactions with children as “service” rather than as explicit preparation for teaching, and conduct research on the social, cultural, and cognitive nature of these experiences. Two case studies illuminate preservice teachers’ learning trajectories in relation to course practices. Analyses suggest that the course created opportunities for preservice teachers to develop views of learning as inherently cultural and not limited to the acquisition of academic content. Emerging findings point to the potential of using Learning Sciences research as a touchstone for reorganizing educational psychology courses for preservice teachers.
Practice-Based Professional Development for Self-Regulated Strategies Development in Writing
Authors: Harris Karen R. , Lane Kathleen Lynne , Graham Steve , Driscoll Steven A. , Sandmel Karin , Brindle Mary , Schatschneider Christopher
Published: January 2012

In this randomized controlled study, 20 second- and third-grade teachers participated in practice-based professional development in strategies instruction in either story or opinion essay writing, using the Self-Regulated Strategies Development (SRSD) instructional model. These teachers worked in schools collaborating with a local university to implement an evidence-based, three-tiered model of prevention and supports targeting academic, behavioral, and social goals. The authors examined the effects of intensive practice-based professional development and follow-up support on the writing of second- and third-grade students in terms of quality, length, and inclusion of basic genre elements; integrity of SRSD instruction; and teacher and student judgments of the social validity of SRSD. Whole-class (Tier 1), teacher-implemented SRSD instruction resulted in significant and meaningful changes in student writing outcomes for story and opinion essay writing. Teachers implemented SRSD with fidelity, and SRSD was viewed as socially valid by teachers and students. Limitations of this study and directions for future research are discussed.
Development of a process chain for the realization of multilayer weft knitted fabrics showing complex 2D/3D geometries for composite applications
Authors: Cherif Chokri , Krzywinski Sybille , Diestel Olaf , Schulz Christian , Lin Huangmei , Klug Peter , Trümper Wolfgang
Published: January 2012

The use of thermoplastic components with a complex three-dimensional (3D) shape, manufactured efficiently with thermo-presses, has been increased steadily. Flat knitting technology using reinforcing hybrid yarns in the horizontal and vertical direction is especially suited for producing near-net-shape or fully-fashion multilayer weft knitted fabrics – MLGs (abbreviated from the German word Mehrlagengestrick, meaning multilayer weft knitted fabric). The other advantages of manufacturing such MLGs, using flat knitting technology, are reduced waste and desired reinforcing fibre alignment to obtain improved mechanical properties for high-performance applications. Before knitting 3D shaped MLGs, it is necessary to transfer the 3D component geometry into a suitable two-dimensional (2D) pattern cut by implementing parting lines. The use of computer-aided design (CAD) programs enables an effective development of complex components preforms. The generated 2D pattern cuts are analyzed with the consideration of net-shape preforming processes on V-bed flat knitting machines. The development of a segmented take-down system for effective production of 3D MLG preforms is also discussed.
Impact compressive behavior of warp-knitted spacer fabrics for protective applications
Authors: Liu Yanping , Hu Hong , Long Hairu , Zhao Li
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a study of the impact compressive behavior of warp-knitted spacer fabrics developed for human body protections. A series of warp-knitted spacer fabrics was produced on a double-needle bar Raschel warp knitting machine by varying their structural parameters, including spacer monofilament inclination and fineness, fabric thickness, and surface layer structure. A drop-weight impact tester was used to test these fabrics with predefined impact energy. The impact process of a typical spacer fabric was analyzed based on its impact contact force-displacement curve, energy absorbed-contact force curve and transmitted force-time curve. The effects of the structural parameters on the impact compressive behavior of the warp-knitted spacer fabrics were also discussed. The relationship between the peak transmitted force and peak contact force was established for these fabrics. The study shows that the warp-knitted spacer fabrics can be used as a type of effective material for human body protection due to their high energy absorption capacity and reduction of the contact peak force. The study also shows that all the structural parameters significantly affect the impact compressive behavior of the warp-knitted spacer fabrics in terms of peak contact force, peak transmitted force, and energy absorbed at different impact compressive stages. According to the results obtained, the warp-knitted spacer fabrics studied can reduce about 33.16% of the peak contact force.
Living Two Lives
Authors: Jones Ken
Published: January 2012

This brief study centres on how some young women in two teacher education programmes in Delhi, India are negotiating their sense of gender identity in a very patriarchal society. It provides first-hand descriptions of what it means to be coming-of-age in this transitional society and offers an analysis of the tensions resulting from the conflicting expectations, restrictions, and opportunities for young women in modern-day India. The author positions the struggles of young women in India as not separate, but part of a universal struggle for human rights.
Transoral Robotic Glossectomy for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea‐Hypopnea Syndrome
Authors: Friedman Michael , Hamilton Craig , Samuelson Christian G. , Kelley Kanwar , Taylor David , Pearson‐Chauhan Kristine , Maley Alexander , Taylor Renwick , Venkatesan T. K.
Published: January 2012

Objective

In previous reports of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), patients underwent routine tracheotomy. We aim to assess the feasibility of performing robotically assisted partial glossectomy without tracheotomy and to assess efficacy by comparing OSAHS outcomes with those of established techniques.

Study Design

Historical cohort study with planned data collection.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Subjects and Methods

Forty consecutive patients underwent TORS for OSAHS between October 2010 and June 2011 and were followed up with regard to complications, morbidity, and subjective and objective outcomes. Data from 27 of these patients who underwent concomitant z‐palatoplasty with 6‐month follow‐up were compared with those of 2 matched cohorts of patients, who underwent either radiofrequency (radiofrequency base‐of‐tongue reduction [RFBOT]) or coblation (submucosal minimally invasive lingual excision [SMILE]) reduction of the tongue base and z‐palatoplasty.

Results

No major bleeding or airway complications were observed. Postoperative pain and length of admission were similar between groups. All groups saw Epworth score and snore score improvement. Patients undergoing robot‐assisted surgery took longer than their SMILE and RFBOT counterparts to tolerate normal diet and longer than RFBOT patients to resume normal activity. Apnea hypopnea index (AHI) reduction averaged 60.5% ± 24.9% for TORS versus 37.0% ± 51.6% (P =. 042) and 32.0% ± 43.3% (P =. 012) for SMILE and RFBOT, respectively. Only the robotic group achieved statistically significant improvement in minimum oxygen saturation. Surgical cure rate for TORS (66.7%) was significant compared with RFBOT (20.8%, P =. 001) but not compared with SMILE (45.5%, P =. 135).

Conclusion

Robotically assisted partial glossectomy feasibly can be performed without the need for tracheotomy. This technique resulted in greater AHI reduction but increased morbidity compared with the other techniques studied.
Postural Control in Older Patients with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Authors: Kasse Cristiane Akemi , Santana Graziela Gaspar , Branco‐Barreiro Fátima Cristina Alves , Scharlach Renata Coelho , Gazzola Juliana Maria , Ganança Fernando Freitas , Doná Flávia
Published: January 2012

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of a canalith‐repositioning procedure in postural control of older patients with idiopathic benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

Study Design

Prospective clinical trial.

Setting

A tertiary referral center.

Methods

A 9‐month follow‐up survey with a prospective design was conducted among 33 older patients with BPPV. Patients underwent static posturography (Balance Rehabilitation Unit [BRU]) and were administered the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) before and after the maneuver. After the treatment, they were compared with 33 healthy older subjects. The posturography parameters were the limit of stability (LOS), the center of body‐pressure area (COP), and the velocity of oscillation (VOS) under conditions of visual, somatosensory, and visual‐vestibular conflict.

Results

One canalith‐repositioning procedure relieved most patients’ complaints (54.5%), and 100% were relieved with 1 to 3 maneuvers. Total DHI score and all subscales improved after treatment (P <. 01). The LOS values pretreatment (mean [SD] 134.27 [55.32] cm2) and posttreatment (181.03 [47.79] cm2) were significantly different (P <. 01). Comparative analysis of COP values showed a relevant statistical difference in 8 of 10 postmaneuver conditions (P <. 01). The postmaneuver VOS showed a significant difference under 7 conflict conditions. There were no differences between the healthy older subjects and treated patients for all VOS values under all conditions and for COP values under 9 conditions.

Conclusion

The canalith‐repositioning procedure promotes remission of symptoms, an increase in LOS, and improvement in postural control under conditions of somatosensory and visual conflict and visual‐vestibular interaction.
Knowing, having, doing: The battles of childhood speech impairment
Authors: McCormack Jane , McAllister Lindy , McLeod Sharynne , Harrison Linda
Published: January 2012

This study describes the experience of childhood speech impairment (speech sound disorder) from the perspective of two young men and their mothers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the four participants, with questions framed around the International classification of functioning, disability and health (ICF; WHO, 2001 ) to gain a holistic understanding of life with speech impairment. Phenomenological analysis of the interviews revealed that the experience of speech impairment was associated with three key themes: (1) knowing, (2) having, and (3) doing. A core theme of ‘battles’ was common to all three themes (i.e. the battle for knowledge, the battle of having speech and associated difficulties, and the battle to do something to minimize the impact of the difficulties); however, the nature of the battles was different for participants, and was related to other life factors. This qualitative research provides valuable insights into the experiences of those living with speech impairment, and shows the importance of considering such information alongside quantitative research when making decisions in clinical practice.
A systematic review of case-mix adjustment models for stroke
Authors: Teale Elizabeth A , Forster Anne , Munyombwe Theresa , Young John B
Published: January 2012

Objective:

To identify any externally validated prognostic model for predicting outcome in unselected populations following acute stroke comprising variables feasible for collection in routine care.

Data sources:

Searches were run in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycInfo, AMED and ISI Web of Science with no limits on publication date or language.

Review methods:

Any study describing the development or external validation of a discernible prognostic model to predict any valid outcome following acute stroke was included. Papers were retained if they met pre-specified inclusion criteria identified from previous reviews and pertinent discussion papers. Data extraction focused on methodological quality of model development, generalizability and feasibility of variable collection. Model performance was examined through consideration of external validation studies.

Results:

Seventeen externally validated models were identified from 43 papers fulfilling inclusion criteria. Quality of studies describing model development was variable and model performance in external validation studies was generally poor. Models were generally constructed through secondary use of randomized trial or stroke database data. Prognostic variables broadly encompassed markers of stroke severity, pre-stroke function and comorbidities. One model that fulfilled the review criteria and had extensive external validation in a range of post-stroke populations was identified (the Six Simple Variables model).

Conclusion:

The Six Simple Variables model performed well in six external validation studies, although prediction of outcome in patients with milder strokes was less reliable. Other models identified in this review have been developed using robust methodology but comprise more complex clinical variables which may limit their utility in routine stroke care.