bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fish Injury and Mortality During Passage Through Pumping Stations
Authors: van Esch B. P. M.
Published: June 2012

An unwanted side effect of pumping stations is that fish suffer from injury and mortality when passing through the pumps and that fish migration is hampered. In recent years, the development of so-called fish-friendly pumping stations has received increasing attention from European governmental institutions and pump manufacturers. In the Netherlands, many field studies have been conducted over the last decade to assess the chances of survival for fish passing through pumps. A clear correlation between observed injury or mortality and, for example, flow rate, shaft speed, or pump type could not be established. This paper presents a new analysis of these field studies. It uses American studies on the biological criteria for fish injury, the most important of which are pressure changes, shear forces, and mechanical injury. A blade strike model is adapted to fish passing through centrifugal pumps of radial, mixed-flow, and axial type. It reveals the relation between fish injury and the type of pump, its size, shaft speed, and pressure head. The results correlate fairly well with experiments. The flow through a typical mixed-flow pump is calculated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The results show that pressure fluctuations and shear forces are not likely to add much to fish mortality. Guidelines for the design and selection of fish-friendly pumps are given with the introduction of two new dimensionless numbers: the blade strike probability factor and the blade strike velocity factor. It shows that fish-friendliness of pumps decreases with increasing specific speed value.
Linear Stability Analysis of an Electrified Viscoelastic Liquid Jet
Authors: Yang Li-jun , Liu Yu-xin , Fu Qing-fei
Published: June 2012

A linear instability analysis method has been used to investigate the breakup of an electrified viscoelastic liquid jet. The liquid is assumed to be a dilute polymer solution modeled by the linear viscoelastic constitutive equation. As for its electric properties, the liquid is assumed to be of perfect electrical conductivity. The axisymmetric and nonaxisymmetric disturbance wave growth rate has been worked out by solving the dispersion equation of an electrified viscoelastic liquid jet, which was obtained by combining the linear instability model of an electrified Newtonian liquid jet with the linear viscoelastic model. The maximum growth rate and corresponding dominant wavenumbers have been observed. The electrical Euler number, non-Newtonian rheological parameters and some flow parameters have been tested for their influence on the instability of the electrified viscoelastic liquid jet. The results show that the disturbance growth rate of electrified viscoelastic liquid jets is higher than that of Newtonian ones for axisymmetric mode disturbance and almost the same for the nonaxisymmetric mode. The growth rate of the axisymmetric mode is greater than that of the nonaxisymmetric mode for large wavenumbers, and the trend is opposite in the small wavenumber range. The ratio of gas to liquid density, electrical Euler number, and elasticity number can accelerate the breakup of the electrified viscoelastic liquid jet for both modes. The increase of the time constant ratio, zero shear viscosity, and jet radius can decrease the growth rate of the axisymmetric mode; however, their effects on the nonaxisymmetric mode are different. As for the effect of surface tension and jet velocity, there is a critical value. The variation trend is opposite when the surface tension or jet velocity is larger or smaller than the critical value.
PI4P and PI(4,5)P
2
Are Essential But Independent Lipid Determinants of Membrane Identity
Authors: Hammond Gerald R. V. , Fischer Michael J. , Anderson Karen E. , Holdich Jon , Koteci Ardita , Balla Tamas , Irvine Robin F.
Published: June 2012

Phosphoinositide Contributions

To study the roles of phosphoinositides in the plasma membrane of mammalian cells,

Hammond
et al.

(p.
727
, published online 21 June; see the Perspective by

Fairn and Grinstein

) engineered phosphatase molecules that could be targeted to the membrane on demand, where they would alter the concentrations of the phospholipids phosphatidylinositol (4,5)-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P
2
] and phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PI4P). PI4P was thought to provide a major source for the synthesis of PI(4,5)P
2
, but depletion of PI4P did not have much affect on synthesis of PI(4,5)P
2
. Instead, PI4P appears to help to establish the negative charge at the membrane and thus promote electrostatic interactions with positively charged amino acids in membrane-associated proteins and influencing function of ion channels.
The Late Cretaceous fold-thrust belt in the Peña de Bernal— Tamazunchale area and its possible relationship to the accretion of the Guerrero Terrane
Authors: Martini Michelangelo , Fitz Elisa , Solari Luigi , Camprubi Antoni , Hudleston Peter J. , Lawton Timothy F. , Tolson Gustavo , Centeno-García Elena
Published: June 2012

The continental interior of Mexico is characterized by a Late Cretaceous prominent fold-thrust belt that shows characteristics of an eastward-tapering orogenic wedge. According to structural data and geothermometry of the deformation, this wedge is the result of horizontal stresses directed from the west (Pacific domain). The orogenic wedge is bounded to the west by the Guerrero Terrane, which is the second largest juvenile terrane accreted to the North American Cordillera. The possible linkage between the accretion of the Guerrero Terrane and the regional shortening in the Mexican interior is examined in detail in the region comprised between the Sierra de Guanajuato and the Peña de Bernal—Tamazunchale areas. In order to test the accretion hypothesis, we present key stratigraphic, structural, and geochronologic data from the Mexican Cordillera in central Mexico, and discuss the problems that exist in connecting the accretion of the Guerrero Terrane to the orogenic deformation of the Mexican continental interior.
A lesson in clinical findings, diagnosis, reassessment and outcome: Boerhaave's syndrome
Authors: Keane Melanie , Gowripalann T , Brodbeck A , Bothma P
Published: June 2012

A man in his 30s presented with a brief episode of vomiting, acute abdominal pain and subsequent development of shortness of breath. On initial examination and investigation, the clinical impression was of a right-sided pneumothorax, pneumonia and pleural effusion. Early antibiotic treatment and management showed a clinical improvement, with the patient reporting resolution of his symptoms. This episode was short lived, with a further deterioration in his condition and worsening of symptoms. Ensuing examination, imaging and investigations demonstrated an oesophageal leak into the right pleural cavity. Following urgent stabilisation measures and insertion of a chest drain, he underwent successful surgical repair. Boerhaave's syndrome is an emergency situation, requiring quick recognition, diagnosis, aggressive treatment and management to optimise a good outcome.
Suspected adverse events, 2011
Authors: Dyer F. , Diesel G. , Cooles S. , Tait A.
Published: June 2012

Increase in injection site reactions after vaccination in horses

Decrease in injection site sarcomas in cats

Increase in human adverse reaction reports

These are some of the results from the Suspected Adverse Reaction Surveillance Scheme in 2011, as discussed by Fabia Dyer and colleagues from the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD)
Synthesis and structure of expanded pyriporphyrins containing a dipyrrylpyridine unit
Authors: Setsune Jun-ichiro , Watanabe Keigo
Published: June 2012

Expanded pyriporphyrins with five and ten nitrogens were prepared in 67% and 6.5% yield, respectively, by the reactions of bis(azafulvene) and dipyrrylpyridine. The minimum 17-membered non-aromatic macrocycle made of four pyrroles and one pyridine is highly non-planar in comparison with orangarin that contains a tripyrrole unit instead of a dipyrrylpyridine unit. This highly non-planar ring structure is basically unchanged in the complex with trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) where carboxylate anions are bound on both sides of the macrocyle plane by multiple hydrogen bondings. This monopyridine-tetrapyrrole hybrid macrocycle was able to act as a dianionic ligand for various metal ions including lanthanide ions. In contrast to the reported figure eight type X-ray structure of turcasarin that is a double sized macrocycle of orangarin, the pyridine-containing macrocycle analog of the same 34-membered ring size isolated in this study was found not to take a figure eight type conformation as evidenced by X-ray crystallography of the tetracation with TFA anions.
Synthesis and physico-chemical properties of porphycenes
Authors: Brenner Wolfgang , Malig Jenny , Oelsner Christian , Guldi Dirk M. , Jux Norbert
Published: June 2012

A new and improved synthesis for porphycenes is presented. In particular, treating pyrroles with iodine monochloride results in quantitative yields and easier work up. This key step was employed for the synthesis of different 2,7,12,17-substituted porphycenes (TPrPc, TPPc, TtBPPc). The synthetic part of this project is followed by a global analysis of the physico-chemical properties of three exemplary porphycenes, including absorption, emission, and electrochemistry. In-situ UV-vis/nIR spectroelectrochemistry was used to determine the spectral signatures of the radical anion and cation species. Temperature-dependent fluorescence lifetimes were determined under air as well as under inert atmosphere.
Robots for Use in Autism Research
Authors: Scassellati Brian , Henny Admoni  , Matarić Maja
Published: June 2012

Autism spectrum disorders are a group of lifelong disabilities that affect people's ability to communicate and to understand social cues. Research into applying robots as therapy tools has shown that robots seem to improve engagement and elicit novel social behaviors from people (particularly children and teenagers) with autism. Robot therapy for autism has been explored as one of the first application domains in the field of socially assistive robotics (SAR), which aims to develop robots that assist people with special needs through social interactions. In this review, we discuss the past decade's work in SAR systems designed for autism therapy by analyzing robot design decisions, human-robot interactions, and system evaluations. We conclude by discussing challenges and future trends for this young but rapidly developing research area.
Bio-Inspired Antifouling Strategies
Authors: Kirschner Chelsea M. , Brennan Anthony B.
Published: June 2012

Biofouling is a complex, dynamic problem that globally impacts both the economy and environment. Interdisciplinary research in marine biology, polymer science, and engineering has led to the implementation of bio-inspired strategies for the development of the next generation of antifouling marine coatings. Natural fouling defense mechanisms have been mimicked through chemical, physical, and/or stimuli-responsive strategies. This review outlines the detrimental effects associated with biofouling, describes the theoretical basis for antifouling coating design, and highlights prominent advances in bio-inspired antifouling technologies.
Optical Sectioning and Confocal Imaging and Analysis in the Transmission Electron Microscope
Authors: Nellist Peter D. , Wang Peng
Published: June 2012

Aberration correction in the transmission electron microscope has led to a reduction in the depth of focus for imaging. The depth of focus in a state-of-the-art scanning transmission electron microscope system, which is currently just a few nanometers, creates an opportunity to explore the three-dimensional structure of a sample by focusing on specific layers, an approach known as optical sectioning. In this article, we review the performance of optical sectioning in the scanning transmission electron microscope. Limitations in the simple optical sectioning approach are used to motivate discussion of confocal electron microscopy. Three imaging modes in scanning confocal electron microscopy have been investigated both theoretically and experimentally, and are reviewed here. The method of implementing a confocal arrangement in a microscope is discussed, along with its comparative performance with other methods for three-dimensional imaging and analysis. Finally, current and future potential applications are discussed.
Type 2 Diabetes in Asians: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Effectiveness of Behavioral Intervention at Individual and Population Levels
Authors: Weber Mary Beth , Oza-Frank Reena , Staimez Lisa R. , Ali Mohammed K. , Venkat Narayan K.M.
Published: June 2012

This review summarizes the current data on diabetes risk factors, prevalence, and prevention efforts in Asia and Asian migrant populations. Studies indicate that type 2 diabetes mellitus is a large and growing threat to public health in Asian populations. Furthermore, Asian subgroups (e.g., South Asians/Asian Indians, Chinese) have unique risk factor profiles for developing diabetes, which differ from other populations and between Asian ethnic groups. Lifestyle intervention programs are effective in preventing diabetes in Asians, as with other ethnicities. The strength of these findings is lessened by the lack of systematically collected data using objective measurements. Large epidemiologic studies of diabetes prevalence and risk factor profiles and translational trials identifying sustainable and culturally acceptable lifestyle programs for Asian subgroups are needed.
Pruriceptive spinothalamic tract neurons: physiological properties and projection targets in the primate
Authors: Davidson Steve , Zhang Xijing , Khasabov Sergey G. , Moser Hannah R. , Honda Christopher N. , Simone Donald A. , Giesler Glenn J.
Published: June 2012

Itch of peripheral origin requires information transfer from the spinal cord to the brain for perception. Here, primate spinothalamic tract (STT) neurons from lumbar spinal cord were functionally characterized by in vivo electrophysiology to determine the role of these cells in the transmission of pruriceptive information. One hundred eleven STT neurons were identified by antidromic stimulation and then recorded while histamine and cowhage (a nonhistaminergic pruritogen) were sequentially applied to the cutaneous receptive field of each cell. Twenty percent of STT neurons responded to histamine, 13% responded to cowhage, and 2% responded to both. All pruriceptive STT neurons were mechanically sensitive and additionally responded to heat, intradermal capsaicin, or both. STT neurons located in the superficial dorsal horn responded with greater discharge and longer duration to pruritogens than STT neurons located in the deep dorsal horn. Pruriceptive STT neurons discharged in a bursting pattern in response to the activating pruritogen and to capsaicin. Microantidromic mapping was used to determine the zone of termination for pruriceptive STT axons within the thalamus. Axons from histamine-responsive and cowhage-responsive STT neurons terminated in several thalamic nuclei including the ventral posterior lateral, ventral posterior inferior, and posterior nuclei. Axons from cowhage-responsive neurons were additionally found to terminate in the suprageniculate and medial geniculate nuclei. Histamine-responsive STT neurons were sensitized to gentle stroking of the receptive field after the response to histamine, suggesting a spinal mechanism for alloknesis. The results show that pruriceptive information is encoded by polymodal STT neurons in histaminergic or nonhistaminergic pathways and transmitted to the ventrobasal complex and posterior thalamus in primates.
Does visually induced self-motion affect grip force when holding an object?
Authors: Bringoux Lionel , Lepecq Jean-Claude , Danion Frédéric
Published: June 2012

Accurate control of grip force during object manipulation is necessary to prevent the object from slipping, especially to compensate for the action of gravitational and inertial forces resulting from hand/object motion. The goal of the current study was to assess whether the control of grip force was influenced by visually induced self-motion (i.e., vection), which would normally be accompanied by changes in object load. The main task involved holding a 400-g object between the thumb and the index finger while being seated within a virtual immersive environment that simulated the vertical motion of an elevator across floors. Different visual motions were tested, including oscillatory (0.21 Hz) and constant-speed displacements of the virtual scene. Different arm-loading conditions were also tested: with or without the hand-held object and with or without oscillatory arm motion (0.9 Hz). At the perceptual level, ratings from participants showed that both oscillatory and constant-speed motion of the elevator rapidly induced a long-lasting sensation of self-motion. At the sensorimotor level, vection compellingness altered arm movement control. Spectral analyses revealed that arm motion was entrained by the oscillatory motion of the elevator. However, we found no evidence that grip force used to hold the object was visually affected. Specifically, spectral analyses revealed no component in grip force that would mirror the virtual change in object load associated with the oscillatory motion of the elevator, thereby allowing the grip-to-load force coupling to remain unaffected. Altogether, our findings show that the neural mechanisms underlying vection interfere with arm movement control but do not interfere with the delicate modulation of grip force. More generally, those results provide evidence that the strength of the coupling between the sensorimotor system and the perceptual level can be modulated depending on the effector.
Rapid fluctuations in extracellular brain glucose levels induced by natural arousing stimuli and intravenous cocaine: fueling the brain during neural activation
Authors: Kiyatkin Eugene A. , Lenoir Magalie
Published: June 2012

Glucose, a primary energetic substrate for neural activity, is continuously influenced by two opposing forces that tend to either decrease its extracellular levels due to enhanced utilization in neural cells or increase its levels due to entry from peripheral circulation via enhanced cerebral blood flow. How this balance is maintained under physiological conditions and changed during neural activation remains unclear. To clarify this issue, enzyme-based glucose sensors coupled with high-speed amperometry were used in freely moving rats to evaluate fluctuations in extracellular glucose levels induced by brief audio stimulus, tail pinch (TP), social interaction with another rat (SI), and intravenous cocaine (1 mg/kg). Measurements were performed in nucleus accumbens (NAcc) and substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr), which drastically differ in neuronal activity. In NAcc, where most cells are powerfully excited after salient stimulation, glucose levels rapidly (latency 2–6 s) increased (30–70 μM or 6–14% over baseline) by all stimuli; the increase differed in magnitude and duration for each stimulus. In SNr, where most cells are transiently inhibited by salient stimuli, TP, SI, and cocaine induced a biphasic glucose response, with the initial decrease (−20–40 μM or 5–10% below baseline) followed by a reboundlike increase. The critical role of neuronal activity in mediating the initial glucose response was confirmed by monitoring glucose currents after local microinjections of glutamate (GLU) or procaine (PRO). While intra-NAcc injection of GLU transiently increased glucose levels in this structure, intra-SNr PRO injection resulted in rapid, transient decreases in SNr glucose. Therefore, extracellular glucose levels in the brain change very rapidly after physiological and pharmacological stimulation, the response is structure specific, and the pattern of neuronal activity appears to be a critical factor determining direction and magnitude of physiological fluctuations in glucose levels.
Beliefs about the Causes of Racial Inequality: The Persisting Impact of Urban and Suburban Locations?
Authors: Carter J. Scott , Corra Mamadi
Published: June 2012

The purpose of this paper is to assess the classical theoretical propositions of Wirth and Stouffer regarding the independent impact of urban and suburban residency on beliefs about racial inequality. This paper further assesses the impacts of these social locations over a three-decade period. While scholars pose that city size positively impacts behavior, there is debate regarding the impact of these locations over time. Using the General Social Survey, findings demonstrate that while urbanism continues to have an independent impact on beliefs, the impact of suburban residency is much weaker and inconsistent. Analyses of over time trends reveal that the gap between urban and rural residents appears to have increased, with rural residents expressing more intolerant beliefs about the causes of racial inequality over time. These findings are further discussed in a broader theoretical context.
A Qualitative Exploration of the Economic and Social Effects of Microcredit among People Living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda
Authors: Wagner Glenn , Rana Yashodhara , Linnemayr Sebastian , Balya James , Buzaalirwa Lydia
Published: June 2012

HIV medical care, including antiretroviral therapy (ART), is often successful in restoring physical health and functioning. But in developing countries, HIV medical care is often insufficient to achieve social and economic health, and hence innovative economic support programs are much needed. We conducted semistructured interviews with 30 adults receiving ART and microcredit loans operated by Uganda Cares. Using content analysis, we explored the impact of the microcredit loans on the economic, social, and psychological well-being of respondents. Most respondents indicated that the microcredit loans played a positive role in their lives, helped them to keep their children in school and sustain their families, and improved their self-esteem and status in the community. In addition, we also found significant positive knowledge spill-over and network effects in the program with regard to business management and support. However, more than half of the participants indicated experiencing repayment problems either personally or with other group members due to unexpected emergencies and sickness. These findings highlight that microcredit programs have the potential of being an economic support system for HIV clients trying to reestablish their livelihoods, especially in resource-constrained settings, though more research is needed to determine the overall economic viability of such programs.
On a Dual Model with Barrier Strategy
Authors: Wen Yuzhen , Yin Chuancun
Published: June 2012

We consider the dual of the generalized Erlang(n) risk model with a barrier dividend strategy. We derive integro‐differential equations with boundary conditions satisfied by the expectation of the sum of discounted dividends until ruin and the moment‐generating function of the discounted dividend payments until ruin, respectively. The results are illustrated by several examples.
More Benefits of Adding Sparse Random Links to Wireless Networks: Yet Another Case for Hybrid Networks
Authors: Ercal Gunes
Published: June 2012

We theoretically and experimentally analyze the process of adding sparse random links to random wireless networks modeled as a random geometric graph. While this process has been previously proposed, we are the first to prove theoretical bounds on the improvement to the graph diameter and random walk properties of the resulting graph as a function of the frequency of wires used, where this frequency is diminishingly small. In particular, given a parameter k controlling sparsity, any node has a probability of [Formula: see text] for being a wired link station. Amongst the wired link stations, we consider creating a random 3-regular graph superimposed upon the random wireless network to create model [Formula: see text], and alternatively we consider a sparser model [Formula: see text] as well, which is a random 1-out graph of the wired links superimposed upon the random wireless network. We prove that the diameter for [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text] with high probability and the diameter for [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text] with high probability, both of which exponentially improve the [Formula: see text] diameter of the random geometric graph around the connectivity threshold, thus also inducing small-world characteristics as the high clustering remains unchanged. Further, we theoretically demonstrate that as long as k is polylogarithmic in the network size, [Formula: see text] has rapidly mixing random walks with high probability, which also exponentially improves upon the mixing time of the purely wireless random geometric graph, which yields direct improvement to the performance of distributed gossip algorithms as well as normalized edge connectivity. Finally, we experimentally confirm that the algebraic connectivities of both [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] exhibit significant asymptotic improvement over that of the underlying random geometric graph. These results further motivate future hybrid networks and advances in the use of directional antennas.
The First Case(s) of Botulism in Vienna in 21 Years: A Case Report
Authors: Vossen Matthias Gerhard , Gattringer Klaus-Bernhard , Wenisch Judith , Khalifeh Neda , Koreny Maria , Spertini Verena , Allerberger Franz , Graninger Wolfgang , Kornschober Christian , Lagler Heimo , Reitner Andreas , Sycha Thomas , Thalhammer Florian
Published: June 2012

We describe two linked cases of botulinum toxin intoxication to provide the clinician with a better idea about how botulism cases may present since early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in botulism. Botulinum toxin is the strongest neurotoxin known.Methods:We review the available literature, the compiled clinical data, and observations.Results:After a slow onset of clinical signs a married couple living in Vienna presented with dysphagia, difficulties in accommodation, inability to sweat, urinary and stool retention, dizziness, and nausea. They suffered intoxication with botulinum toxin type B. Botulism is a rarely occurring disease in Austria. In the last 21 years there were only twelve reported cases.Conclusion:Both patients went to a general practitioner as well as several specialists before they were sent to and correctly diagnosed at our outpatient department. To avoid long delays between intoxication and diagnosis we think it is crucial to advert to the complex symptoms a nonsevere intoxication with botulinum toxin can produce, especially since intoxications have become rare occurrences in the industrialized societies due to the high quality of industrial food production.
Clinical and Economic Outcomes of Thyroid Surgery in Elderly Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sullivan Michael C. , Roman Sanziana A. , Sosa Julie A.
Published: June 2012

The U.S. population is undergoing a dramatic shift in demographics, with a rise in the proportion of elderly Americans. Given an increased prevalence of thyroid disease and malignancy with age, understanding the safety of thyroid surgery in this age group is increasingly pertinent. There remains disagreement regarding the clinical outcomes of elderly patients after thyroidectomy and the applicability of single-institution cohorts to the population at large. This paper reviews the epidemiology of thyroid disease in the elderly, current surgical indications and practice patterns, and the clinical and economic outcomes of elderly patients with thyroid disease after surgical intervention.
Laser Welding and Syncristallization Techniques Comparison:In VitroStudy
Authors: Fornaini C. , Merigo E. , Vescovi P. , Meleti M. , Nammour S.
Published: June 2012

Background. Laser welding was first reported in 1967 and for many years it has been used in dental laboratories with several advantages versus the conventional technique. Authors described, in previous works, the possibility of using also chair-side Nd : YAG laser device (Fotona Fidelis III,λ=1064 nm) for welding metallic parts of prosthetic appliances directly in the dental office, extra- and also intra-orally. Syncristallisation is a soldering technique based on the creation of an electric arc between two electrodes and used to connect implants to bars intra-orally.Aim. The aim of this study was to compare two different laser welding devices with a soldering machine, all of these used in prosthetic dentistry.Material and Methods. In-lab Nd : YAG laser welding (group A = 12 samples), chair-side Nd : YAG laser welding (group B = 12 samples), and electrowelder (group C = 12 samples) were used. The tests were performed on 36 CrCoMo plates and the analysis consisted in evaluation, by microscopic observation, of the number of fissures in welded areas of groups A and B and in measurement of the welding strength in all the groups. The results were statistically analysed by means of one-way ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer multiple comparison tests.Results. The means and standard deviations for the number of fissures in welded areas were8.12±2.59for group A and5.20±1.38for group B. The difference was statistical significant (P=0.0023at the level 95%). On the other hand, the means and standard deviations for the traction tests were1185.50±288.56 N for group A,896.41±120.84 N for group B, and283.58±84.98 N for group C. The difference was statistical significant (P=0.01at the level 95%).Conclusion. The joint obtained by welding devices had a significant higher strength compared with that obtained by the electrowelder, and the comparison between the two laser devices used demonstrated that the chair-side Nd : YAG, even giving a lower strength to the joints, produced the lowest number of fissures in the welded area.
A Pilot Survey of Clergy Regarding Mental Health Care for Children
Authors: Blalock Leigh , Dew Rachel E.
Published: June 2012

Collaborations between healthcare and faith-based organizations have emerged in the drive to improve access to care. Little research has examined clergy views on collaborations in the provision of mental healthcare, particularly to children. The current paper reports survey responses of 25 clergy from diverse religious traditions concerning mental health care in children. Subjects queried include clergy referral habits, specific knowledge of childhood conditions such as depression and anxiety, past experiences with behavioral health workers, and resources available through their home institutions. Overall, surveyed clergy support collaborations to improve childhood mental health. However, they vary considerably in their confidence with recognizing mental illness in children and perceive significant barriers to collaborating with mental health providers.
TiO2and N-Doped TiO2Induced Photocatalytic Inactivation ofStaphylococcus aureusunder 405 nm LED Blue Light Irradiation
Authors: Chen Hongfei , Xie Zhong , Jin Xiujuan , Luo Chao , You Chao , Tang Ying , Chen Di , Li Zhengjia , Fan Xiaohong
Published: June 2012

Irradiation source has been a serious impediment to induce photocatalytic bacterial inactivation which was taken as an advanced indoor air purification technique. Here we reported the synergistic effects of 405 nm LED light and TiO2photocatalyst in inactivation process ofStaphylococcus aureus(S. aureus). In this work, TiO2and N-doped TiO2particles were, respectively, suspended into the nutrient broth suspension withS. aureus. Then, the mixed system was exposed to a 405 nm LED light source with energy density of about 0.2 W/cm2for 3 hours. Irradiated suspension was then scanned by UV-vis spectrophotometer for bacteria survive/death rate statistics. Subsequently, the inactivation efficiency was calculated based on the difference of the absorption optical density between experimental and controlled suspensions. Results showed that both TiO2and N-doped TiO2particles exhibit potential bacterial inactivation effects under similar experimental conditions. Specifically, N-doped TiO2with the concentration of 5 g/L displayed enhanced inactivation efficiency againstS. aureusunder 405 nm LED light irradiation. Thus, it is a promising indoor air purification technique by using N-doped TiO2particles under the LED light irradiation.
Comparison of Constitutive Relationships for Dilute Granular Flow in a Vibrofluidized Cell
Authors: Sheikh Nadeem Ahmed
Published: June 2012

We present comparison of two closure models for dissipative flow of granular gas. Initial validation of the models is achieved using MD simulations for a vibrated cell with elastic side walls. With the dissipation at the side walls, convective rolling in the cell is observed. We show that dense inelastic granular gas model exhibits deviations from near elastic model even at low dissipation and dilute conditions. The flow physics shows that the strength of convective roll can be related with the differential dissipations on the side walls. The discrepancy between the two models is significant as we reevaluate the scope of near elastic model in the presence of dissipative boundary conditions.
EWS/FLI1 Regulates EYA3 in Ewing Sarcoma via Modulation of miRNA-708, Resulting in Increased Cell Survival and Chemoresistance
Authors: Robin Tyler P. , Smith Anna , McKinsey Erin , Reaves Lisa , Jedlicka Paul , Ford Heide L.
Published: June 2012

Ewing sarcoma is an aggressive pediatric cancer of the bone and soft tissue, in which patients whose tumors have a poor histologic response to initial chemotherapy have a poor overall prognosis. Therefore, it is important to identify molecules involved in resistance to chemotherapy. Herein, we show that the DNA repair protein and transcriptional cofactor, EYA3, is highly expressed in Ewing sarcoma tumor samples and cell lines compared with mesenchymal stem cells, the presumed cell-of-origin of Ewing sarcoma, and that it is regulated by the EWS/FLI1 fusion protein transcription factor. We further show that EWS/FLI1 mediates upregulation of EYA3 via repression of miR-708, a miRNA that targets the EYA3 3′-untranslated region, rather than by binding the EYA3 promoter directly. Importantly, we show that high levels of EYA3 significantly correlate with low levels of miR-708 in Ewing sarcoma samples, suggesting that this miR-mediated mechanism of EYA3 regulation holds true in human cancers. Because EYA proteins are important for cell survival during development, we examine, and show, that loss of EYA3 decreases survival of Ewing sarcoma cells. Most importantly, knockdown of EYA3 in Ewing sarcoma cells leads to sensitization to DNA-damaging chemotherapeutics used in the treatment of Ewing sarcoma, and as expected, after chemotherapeutic treatment, EYA3 knockdown cells repair DNA damage less effectively than their control counterparts. These studies identify EYA3 as a novel mediator of chemoresistance in Ewing sarcoma and define the molecular mechanisms of both EYA3 overexpression and of EYA3-mediated chemoresistance. Mol Cancer Res; 10(8); 1098–108. ©2012 AACR.
Insulin Activation of Plasma Nonesterified Fatty Acid Uptake in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Ramos-Roman Maria A. , Lapidot Smadar A. , Phair Robert D. , Parks Elizabeth J.
Published: June 2012

Objective—

Insulin control of fatty acid metabolism has long been deemed dominated by suppression of adipose lipolysis. The goal of the present study was to test the hypothesis that this single role of insulin is insufficient to explain observed fatty acid dynamics.

Methods and Results—

Fatty acid kinetics were measured during a meal tolerance test and insulin sensitivity assessed by intravenous glucose tolerance test in overweight human subjects (n=15; body mass index, 35.8±7.1 kg/m
2
). Non–steady state tracer kinetic models were formulated and tested using ProcessDB software. Suppression of adipose fatty acid release, by itself, could not account for postprandial nonesterified fatty acid concentration changes, but adipose suppression combined with insulin activation of fatty acid uptake was consistent with the measured data. The observed insulin
K

m

for nonesterified fatty acid uptake was inversely correlated with both insulin sensitivity of glucose uptake (intravenous glucose tolerance test insulin sensitivity;
r
=−0.626;
P
=0.01) and whole body fat oxidation after the meal (
r
=−0.538;
P
=0.05).

Conclusion—

These results support insulin regulation of fatty acid turnover by both release and uptake mechanisms. Activation of fatty acid uptake is consistent with the human data, has mechanistic precedent in cell culture, and highlights a new potential target for therapies aimed at improving the control of fatty acid metabolism in insulin–resistant disease states.
An Unexpected Role of Semaphorin3A–Neuropilin-1 Signaling in Lymphatic Vessel Maturation and Valve Formation
Authors: Jurisic Giorgia , Maby-El Hajjami Hélène , Karaman Sinem , Ochsenbein Alexandra M. , Alitalo Annamari , Siddiqui Shoib S. , Ochoa Pereira Carlos , Petrova Tatiana V. , Detmar Michael
Published: June 2012

Rationale:

Lymphatic vasculature plays important roles in tissue fluid homeostasis maintenance and in the pathology of human diseases. Yet, the molecular mechanisms that control lymphatic vessel maturation remain largely unknown.

Objective:

We analyzed the gene expression profiles of ex vivo isolated lymphatic endothelial cells to identify novel lymphatic vessel expressed genes and we investigated the role of semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) and neuropilin-1 (Nrp-1) in lymphatic vessel maturation and function.

Methods and Results:

Lymphatic and blood vascular endothelial cells from mouse intestine were isolated using fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and transcriptional profiling was performed. We found that the axonal guidance molecules Sema3A and Sema3D were highly expressed by lymphatic vessels. Importantly, we found that the semaphorin receptor Nrp-1 is expressed on the perivascular cells of the collecting lymphatic vessels. Treatment of mice in utero (E12.5-E16.5) with an antibody that blocks Sema3A binding to Nrp-1 but not with an antibody that blocks VEGF-A binding to Nrp-1 resulted in a complex phenotype of impaired lymphatic vessel function, enhanced perivascular cell coverage, and abnormal lymphatic vessel and valve morphology.

Conclusions:

Together, these results reveal an unanticipated role of Sema3A–Nrp-1 signaling in the maturation of the lymphatic vascular network likely via regulating the perivascular cell coverage of the vessels thus affecting lymphatic vessel function and lymphatic valve development.
Thin-Slice Reconstructions of Nonenhanced CT Images Allow for Detection of Thrombus in Acute Stroke
Authors: Riedel Christian H. , Zoubie Julia , Ulmer Stephan , Gierthmuehlen Janne , Jansen Olav
Published: June 2012

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether thin-slice image reconstructions of cranial nonenhanced CT scans could be used to significantly increase sensitivity for detecting intraluminal thrombus in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to proximal occlusion of the middle cerebral artery.

Methods—

In a prospective case series, the raw data of nonenhanced CT scans from 54 patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke and proven vascular obliteration of the middle cerebral artery were collected along with the same data from patients not having a stroke but the same sex and age. All raw data were reconstructed with a slice thickness of 5 mm and as thin slices with a thickness of 0.625 mm. Three observers independently evaluated the 5-mm nonenhanced CT reconstructions and 5-mm maximum intensity projections of the thin slices and rated the likelihood of a clot obliterating the middle cerebral artery trunk or first-order branches using a 5-point scale. The results were evaluated in comparison with base data using receiver operating curve analysis. Interobserver agreement was measured using Cohen κ for every pair of observers.

Results—

The area under the curve for the receiver operating curve analysis for the thick slices ranged from 0.63 to 0.67, whereas for the maximum intensity projection images of the thin slice reconstructions, receiver operating curve analysis revealed areas under the curve between 0.94 and 0.97. Interobserver agreement was higher for thin-slice (κ, 0.69–0.83) versus thick-slice nonenhanced CT reconstructions (κ, 0.38–0.45).

Conclusions—

Thin-slice reconstructions of standard cranial nonenhanced CT raw data allow for more sensitive and reliable detection of clots occluding the proximal middle cerebral artery.
Impact of Indo-Pacific Feedback Interactions on ENSO Dynamics Diagnosed Using Ensemble Climate Simulations
Authors: Santoso A. , England M. H. , Cai W.
Published: June 2012

The impact of Indo-Pacific climate feedback on the dynamics of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is investigated using an ensemble set of Indian Ocean decoupling experiments (DCPL), utilizing a millennial integration of a coupled climate model. It is found that eliminating air–sea interactions over the Indian Ocean results in various degrees of ENSO amplification across DCPL simulations, with a shift in the underlying dynamics toward a more prominent thermocline mode. The DCPL experiments reveal that the net effect of the Indian Ocean in the control runs (CTRL) is a damping of ENSO. The extent of this damping appears to be negatively correlated to the coherence between ENSO and the Indian Ocean dipole (IOD). This type of relationship can arise from the long-lasting ENSO events that the model simulates, such that developing ENSO often coincides with Indian Ocean basin-wide mode (IOBM) anomalies during non-IOD years. As demonstrated via AGCM experiments, the IOBM enhances western Pacific wind anomalies that counteract the ENSO-enhancing winds farther east. In the recharge oscillator framework, this weakens the equatorial Pacific air–sea coupling that governs the ENSO thermocline feedback. Relative to the IOBM, the IOD is more conducive for ENSO growth. The net damping by the Indian Ocean in CTRL is thus dominated by the IOBM effect which is weaker with stronger ENSO–IOD coherence. The stronger ENSO thermocline mode in DCPL is consistent with the absence of any IOBM anomalies. This study supports the notion that the Indian Ocean should be viewed as an integral part of ENSO dynamics.
Influences of ENSO Teleconnection on the Persistence of Sea Surface Temperature in the Tropical Indian Ocean
Authors: Ding Ruiqiang , Li Jianping
Published: June 2012

This study confirms a weak spring persistence barrier (SPB) of sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTAs) in the western tropical Indian Ocean (WIO), a strong fall persistence barrier (FPB) in the South China Sea (SCS), and the strongest winter persistence barrier (WPB) in the southeastern tropical Indian Ocean (SEIO). During El Niño events, a less abrupt sign reversal of SSTAs occurs in the WIO during spring, an abrupt reversal occurs in the SCS during fall, and the most abrupt reversal occurs in the SEIO during winter. The sign reversal of SSTA implies a rapid decrease in SSTA persistence, which is favorable for the occurrence of a persistence barrier. The present results indicate that a more abrupt reversal of SSTA sign generally corresponds to a more prominent persistence barrier. El Niño–induced changes in atmospheric circulation result in reduced evaporation and suppressed convection. This in turn leads to the warming over much of the TIO basin, which is an important mechanism for the abrupt switch in SSTA, from negative to positive, in the northern SCS and SEIO. The seasonal cycle of the prevailing surface winds has a strong influence on the timing of the persistence barriers in the TIO.

The Indian Ocean dipole (IOD) alone can cause a weak WPB in the SEIO. El Niño events co-occurring with positive IOD further strengthen the SEIO WPB. The SEIO WPB appears to be more strongly influenced by ENSO than by the IOD. In contrast, the WIO SPB and the SCS FPB are relatively independent of the IOD.
Does Net E − P Set a Preference for North Atlantic Sinking?
Authors: Huisman Selma E. , Dijkstra Henk A. , von der Heydt A. S. , de Ruijter W. P. M.
Published: June 2012

The present-day global meridional overturning circulation (MOC) with formation of North Atlantic Deep Water (NADW) and the absence of a deep-water formation in the North Pacific is often considered to be caused by the fact that the North Pacific basin is a net precipitative, while the North Atlantic is a net evaporative basin. In this paper, the authors study the effect of asymmetries in continent geometry and freshwater fluxes on the MOC both in an idealized two-dimensional model and in a global ocean model. This study approaches the problem from a multiple equilibria perspective, where asymmetries in external factors constrain the existence of steady MOC patterns. Both this multiple equilibria perspective and the fact that a realistic global geometry is used add new aspects to the problem. In the global model, it is shown that the Atlantic forced by net precipitation can have a meridional overturning circulation with northern sinking and a sea surface salinity that resembles the present-day salinity field. The model results are suggestive of the importance of factors other than the freshwater flux asymmetries, in particular continental asymmetries, in producing the meridional overturning asymmetry.
Velocity Imprecision in Finite-Beamwidth Shipboard Doppler Sonar: A First-Generation Correction Algorithm
Authors: Pinkel Robert
Published: June 2012

The finite angular width of Doppler sonar beams introduces errors into the measurement of ocean velocity from moving ships. These errors are exacerbated as ship speed increases and as the acoustic scatter field becomes more inhomogeneous in space. Zooplanktonic scatters often reside in distinct quasi-isopycnal scattering layers. When measured from a moving ship, such layers appear to have a distinct velocity signature, even if the ocean is quiescent. Here, this effect is explored in a simple analytic model and a least squares algorithm is presented for remediating its signature. The algorithm corrects the measured velocity at any given depth, with the correction being a weighted sum of the depth gradient of log acoustic intensity at surrounding depths. The correction weights are a property of the specific sonar beam pattern. Once determined, they can be considered constant. The algorithm, when applied to a 50-kHz sonar on the Research Vessel (R/V) Roger Revelle, is found to remove roughly 90% of the error in vertical wavenumber spectra of shear. More sophisticated algorithms can be developed as experience with the present approach is gained.
Displaying Economic Value
Authors: Marzban Caren
Published: June 2012

The distinction between forecast quality and economic value in a cost–loss formulation is well known. Also well known is their complex relationship, even with some instances of a reversal between the two, where higher quality is associated with lower economic value, and vice versa. It is reasonable to expect such counterintuitive results when forecast quality and economic value—both, multifaceted quantities—are summarized by single scalar measures. Diagrams are often used to display forecast quality in order to better represent the multidimensional nature of forecast quality. Here, it is proposed that economic value be displayed as a region on a plot of hit rate versus false-alarm rate. Such a display obviates any need to summarize economic value by a scalar measure. The choice of the axes is motivated by the relative operating characteristic (ROC) diagram, and, so, this manner of displaying economic value is useful for deterministic as well as probabilistic forecasts.