bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Hybrid FETD-FDTD Method with Nonconforming Meshes
Authors: Zhu Bao , Chen Jiefu , Zhong Wanxie , Liu Qing Huo
Published: September 2010

A quasi non-overlapping hybrid scheme that combines the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method and the finite-element time-domain (FETD) method with nonconforming meshes is developed for time-domain solutions of Maxwell’s equations. The FETD method uses mixed-order basis functions for electric and magnetic fields, while the FDTD method uses the traditional Yee’s grid; the two methods are joined by a buffer zone with the FETD method and the discontinuous Galerkin method is used for the domain decomposition in the FETD subdomains. The main features of this technique is that it allows non-conforming meshes and an arbitrary numbers of FETD and FDTD subdomains. The hybrid method is completely stable for the time steps up to the stability limit for the FDTD method and FETD method. Numerical results demonstrate the validity of this technique.
On the Order of Accuracy and Numerical Performance of Two Classes of Finite Volume WENO Schemes
Authors: Zhang Rui , Zhang Mengping , Shu Chi-Wang
Published: September 2010

In this paper we consider two commonly used classes of finite volume weighted essentially non-oscillatory (WENO) schemes in two dimensional Cartesian meshes. We compare them in terms of accuracy, performance for smooth and shocked solutions, and efficiency in CPU timing. For linear systems both schemes are high order accurate, however for nonlinear systems, analysis and numerical simulation results verify that one of them (Class A) is only second order accurate, while the other (Class B) is high order accurate. The WENO scheme in Class A is easier to implement and costs less than that in Class B. Numerical experiments indicate that the resolution for shocked problems is often comparable for schemes in both classes for the same building blocks and meshes, despite of the difference in their formal order of accuracy. The results in this paper may give some guidance in the application of high order finite volume schemes for simulating shocked flows.
A Pressure-Correction Scheme for Rotational Navier-Stokes Equations and Its Application to Rotating Turbulent Flows
Authors: Shetty Dinesh A. , Shen Jie , Chandy Abhilash J. , Frankel Steven H.
Published: September 2010

The rotational incremental pressure-correction (RIPC) scheme, described in Timmermans et al. [Int. J. Numer. Methods. Fluids., 22 (1996)] and Shen et al. [Math. Comput., 73 (2003)] for non-rotational Navier-Stokes equations, is extended to rotating incompressible flows. The method is implemented in the context of a pseudo Fourier-spectral code and applied to several rotating laminar and turbulent flows. The performance of the scheme and the computational results are compared to the so-called diagonalization method (DM) developed by Morinishi et al. [Int. J. Heat. Fluid. Flow., 22 (2001)]. The RIPC predictions are in excellent agreement with the DM predictions, while being simpler to implement and computationally more efficient. The RIPC scheme is not in anyway limited to implementation in a pseudo-spectral code or periodic boundary conditions, and can be used in complex geometries and with other suitable boundary conditions.
Discounting for Climate Change
Authors: Anthoff David , Tol Richard S.J. , Yohe Gary W.
Published: September 2010

It is well-known that the discount rate is crucially important for estimating the social cost of carbon, a standard indicator for the seriousness of climate change and desirable level of climate policy. The Ramsey equation for the discount rate has three components: the pure rate of time preference, a measure of relative risk aversion, and the rate of growth of per capita consumption. Much of the attention on the appropriate discount rate for long-term environmental problems has focussed on the role played by the pure rate of time preference in this formulation. We show that the other two elements are numerically just as important in considerations of anthropogenic climate change. The elasticity of the marginal utility with respect to consumption is particularly important because it assumes three roles: consumption smoothing over time, risk aversion, and inequity aversion. Given the large uncertainties about climate change and widely asymmetric impacts, the assumed rates of risk and inequity aversion can be expected to play significant roles. The consumption growth rate plays multiple roles, as well. It is one of the determinants of the discount rate, and one of the drivers of emissions and hence climate change. We also find that the impacts of climate change grow slower than income, so the effective discount rate is higher than the real discount rate. Moreover, the differential growth rate between rich and poor countries determines the time evolution of the size of the equity weights. As there are a number of crucial but uncertain parameters, it is no surprise that one can obtain almost any estimate of the social cost of carbon. We even show that, for a low pure rate of time preference, the estimate of the social cost of carbon is indeed arbitrary—as one can exclude neither large positive nor large negative impacts in the very long run. However, if we probabilistically constrain the parameters to values that are implied by observed behaviour, we find that the expected social cost of carbon, corrected for uncertainty and inequity, is approximate 60 US dollar per metric tonne of carbon (or roughly $17 per tonne of CO2) under the assumption that catastrophic risk is zero.

Data material available at http://www.fnu.zmaw.de/FUND.5679.0.html
Observations of OH and HO2 radicals over West Africa
Authors: Commane R. , Floquet C. F. A. , Ingham T. , Stone D. , Evans M. J. , Heard D. E.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. The hydroxyl radical (OH) plays a key role in the oxidation of trace gases in the troposphere. However, observations of OH and the closely related hydroperoxy radical (HO2) have been sparse, especially in the tropics. Based on a low-pressure laser-induced fluorescence technique (FAGE – Fluorescence Assay by Gas Expansion), an instrument has been developed to measure OH and HO2 aboard the Facility for Airborne Atmospheric Measurement (FAAM) BAe-146 research aircraft. During the African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analyses (AMMA) campaign, observations of OH and HO2 (HOx) were made in the boundary layer and free troposphere over West Africa on 13 flights during July and August 2006. Mixing ratios of both OH and HO2 were found to be highly variable, but followed a diurnal cycle: OH varied from 1.3 pptv to below the instrumental limit of detection, with a median mixing ratio of 0.17 pptv. HO2 varied from 42.7 pptv to below the limit of detection, with a median mixing ratio of 8.0 pptv. A median HO2/OH ratio of 95 was observed. Daytime OH observations were compared with the primary production rate of OH from ozone photolysis in the presence of water vapour. Daytime HO2 observations were generally reproduced by a simple steady-state HOx calculation, where HOx was assumed to be formed from the primary production of OH and lost through HO2 self-reaction. Deviations between the observations and this simple model were found to be grouped into a number of specific cases: (a) within cloud, (b) in the presence of high levels of isoprene in the boundary layer and (c) within a biomass burning plume. HO2 was sampled in and around cloud, with significant short-lived reductions of HO2 observed. Up to 9 pptv of HO2 was observed at night, with HO2 above 6 pptv observed at altitudes above 6 km. In the forested boundary layer, HO2 was underestimated by a steady state calculation at altitudes below 500 m but overestimated between 500 m and 2 km. In a biomass burning plume, observed HO2 concentrations were significantly below those calculated.
Climate change between the mid and late Holocene in northern high latitudes – Part 2: Model-data comparisons
Authors: Zhang Q. , Sundqvist H. S. , Moberg A. , Körnich H. , Nilsson J. , Holmgren K.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. The climate response over northern high latitudes to the mid-Holocene orbital forcing has been investigated in three types of PMIP (Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project) simulations with different complexity of the modelled climate system. By first undertaking model-data comparison, an objective selection method has been applied to evaluate the capability of the climate models to reproduce the spatial response pattern seen in proxy data. The possible feedback mechanisms behind the climate response have been explored based on the selected model simulations. Subsequent model-model comparisons indicate the importance of including the different physical feedbacks in the climate models. The comparisons between the proxy-based reconstructions and the best fit selected simulations show that over the northern high latitudes, summer temperature change follows closely the insolation change and shows a common feature with strong warming over land and relatively weak warming over ocean at 6 ka compared to 0 ka. Furthermore, the sea-ice-albedo positive feedback enhances this response. The reconstructions of temperature show a stronger response to enhanced insolation in the annual mean temperature than winter and summer temperature. This is verified in the model simulations and the behaviour is attributed to the larger contribution from the large response in autumn. Despite a smaller insolation during winter at 6 ka, a pronounced warming centre is found over Barents Sea in winter in the simulations, which is also supported by the nearby northern Eurasian continental and Fennoscandian reconstructions. This indicates that in the Arctic region, the response of the ocean and the sea ice to the enhanced summer insolation is more important for the winter temperature than the synchronous decrease of the insolation.
Effects of Hurricane Katrina on Nursing Facility Resident Mortality, Hospitalization, and Functional Decline
Authors: Dosa David , Feng Zhanlian , Hyer Kathy , Brown Lisa M. , Thomas Kali , Mor Vincent
Published: September 2010

Background: The study was designed to examine the 30- and 90-day mortality and hospitalization rates among nursing facility (NF) residents in the affected areas of Louisiana and Mississippi following Hurricane Katrina and to assess the rate of significant posthurricane functional decline.

Methods: A secondary data analysis was conducted using Medicare claims merged with NF resident data from the Minimum Data Set. Thirty- and 90-day mortality and hospitalization rates for long-stay (>90 days) residents residing in 141 at-risk NFs during Hurricane Katrina were compared to rates for residents residing at the same facilities during the same time period in prior nonhurricane years (2003 and 2004). Functional decline was assessed as a 4+ drop in function using a 28-point Minimum Data Set Activities of Daily Living Scale.

Results: There were statistically significant differences (all P < .0001) in mortality, hospitalization, and functional decline among residents exposed to Hurricane Katrina. At 30 days, the mortality rate was 3.88% among the exposed cohort compared with 2.10% and 2.28% for residents in 2003 and 2004, respectively. The 90-day mortality rate was 9.27% compared with 6.71% and 6.31%, respectively. These mortality differences translated into an additional 148 deaths at 30 days and 230 deaths at 90 days. The 30-day hospitalization rate was 9.87% compared with 7.21% and 7.53%, respectively. The 90-day hospitalization rate was 20.39% compared with 18.61% and 17.82%, respectively. Finally, the rate of significant functional decline among survivors was 6.77% compared with 5.81% in 2003 and 5.10% in 2004.

Conclusions: NF residents experienced a significant increase in mortality, hospitalization, and functional decline during Hurricane Katrina.

(Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2010;4:S28-S32)
Measuring Individual Disaster Recovery: A Socioecological Framework
Authors: Abramson David M. , Stehling-Ariza Tasha , Park Yoon Soo , Walsh Lauren , Culp Derrin
Published: September 2010

Background: Disaster recovery is a complex phenomenon. Too often, recovery is measured in singular fashion, such as quantifying rebuilt infrastructure or lifelines, without taking in to account the affected population's individual and community recovery. A comprehensive framework is needed that encompasses a much broader and far-reaching construct with multiple underlying dimensions and numerous causal pathways; without the consideration of a comprehensive framework that investigates relationships between these factors, an accurate measurement of recovery may not be valid. This study proposes a model that encapsulates these ideas into a single framework, the Socio-Ecological Model of Recovery.

Methods: Using confirmatory factor analysis, an operational measure of recovery was developed and validated using the five measures of housing stability, economic stability, physical health, mental health, and social role adaptation. The data were drawn from a sample of displaced households following Hurricane Katrina. Measures of psychological strength, risk, disaster exposure, neighborhood contextual effects, and formal and informal help were modeled to examine their direct and indirect effects on recovery using a structural equation model.

Findings: All five elements of the recovery measure were positively correlated with a latent measure of recovery, although mental health and social role adaptation displayed the strongest associations. An individual's psychological strength had the greatest association with positive recovery, followed by having a household income greater than $20 000 and having informal social support. Those factors most strongly associated with an absence of recovery included the time displaced since the hurricane, being disabled, and living in a community with substantial social disorder.

Discussion: The socio-ecological framework provides a robust means for measuring recovery, and for testing those factors associated with the presence or absence of recovery.

(Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2010;4:S46-S54)
Isolation of Chromaffin Granules
Authors: Creutz Carl E.
Published: September 2010

Adrenal medullary chromaffin granules (dense core secretory vesicles) have been a valuable model system for the study of the proteins and membrane components involved in the process of exocytosis. Because of the abundance of chromaffin granules in a readily available tissue source, bovine adrenal medullae, and their unique sedimentation properties, it is possible to obtain large quantities of highly purified granules and granule membranes in a short period of time. Two protocols are presented here for the isolation of chromaffin granules: a basic protocol based on differential centrifugation in an iso‐osmotic medium that yields intact chromaffin granules, and an alternate protocol based on sedimentation through a density step gradient that provides a greater yield of more highly purified chromaffin granules. Since in the latter case the granules cannot be returned to a medium of physiological osmolarity without lysis after purification on the step gradient, the alternate protocol is more useful to obtain the granule membranes or contents for further study. Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 48:3.39.1‐3.39.10. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Dynamic Proliferation Assessment in Flow Cytometry
Authors: Diermeier‐Daucher Simone , Brockhoff Gero
Published: September 2010

Dynamic proliferation assessment via flow cytometry is legitimately supposed to be the most powerful tool for recording cell cycle kinetics in‐vitro. The preeminent feature is a single cell–based multi‐informative analysis by temporal high‐resolution. Flow cytometric approaches are based on labeling of proliferating cells via thymidine substitution by a base analog (e.g., 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine, BrdU) that is added to cell cultures either for a short period of time (pulse labeling) or continuously until cell harvesting. This unit describes the alternative use of the thymidine analog 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) in place of BrdU for three different applications: (1) dynamic proliferation assessment by EdU pulse cell labeling; (2) the same approach as (1) but in combination with live/dead cell discrimination; and (3) dynamic cell cycle analysis based on continuous cell labeling with EdU and Hoechst fluorochrome quenching. In contrast to the detection of BrdU incorporation, EdU‐positive cells can be identified by taking advantage of click chemistry, which facilitates a simplified and fast cell preparation. Further analysis options but also limitations of the utilization of EdU are discussed. Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 48:8.6.1‐8.6.23. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Analysis of Arf GTP‐Binding Protein Function in Cells
Authors: Cohen Lee Ann , Donaldson Julie G.
Published: September 2010

This unit describes techniques and approaches that can be used to study the functions of the ADP‐ribosylation factor (Arf) GTP‐binding proteins in cells. There are six mammalian Arfs and many more Arf‐like proteins (Arls), and these proteins are conserved in eukaryotes from yeast to humans. Like all GTPases, Arfs cycle between GDP‐bound, inactive and GTP‐bound active conformations, facilitated by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) and GTPase‐activating proteins (GAPs) that catalyze GTP binding and hydrolysis, respectively. This unit describes approaches that can be taken to examine the localization and function of Arf and Arl proteins in cells. A simple protocol for measuring activation (GTP‐binding) of specific Arf proteins in cells using a pull‐down assay is also described. Approaches that can be taken to assess function of GEFs and GAPs in cells is described. Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 48:14.12.1‐14.12.17. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Cyanamides
Authors: Cameron William
Published: September 2010

Cyanamide has been commercially available, as calcium salt, since the beginning of the twentieth century. A commercial process for manufacturing a pure grade of cyanamide was introduced in 1964. Cyanamide was widely used as a nitrogen fertilizer and later as a raw material for dicyanamide and melamine. The use of cyanamide as fertilizer has been replaced by ammonia and urea. Melamine is made by a petrochemical process using natural gas. Cyanamide is used in the manufacture of dicyanamide and calcium cyanide. Cyanamide‐based chemicals have also been used in special applications for defoliants, fungicides, and herbicides.

Calcium cyanamide is produced by both batch oven and continuous kiln processes. This article deals with the chemistry, manufacture, specifications, health and safety factors, and the use of cyanamide and its homologues, Melamine is used almost exclusively in the manufacture of melamine‐formaldehyde resins.
Phosgene
Authors: Dunlap Kenneth L.
Published: September 2010

Phosgene is a colorless, low boiling liquid which is manufactured by the reaction of carbon monoxide and chlorine over activated carbon. It is a very toxic substance and extensive safety procedures and equipment have been developed to help ensure safety of handling. Because of its low boiling point and high toxicity, measures must be taken to prevent the entrance of phosgene into sewers and drains. Phosgene is a widely used intermediates. Practically all phosgene is captive, ie, used in the manufacture of other chemicals within the plant boundary. The major portion of phosgene produced goes into the production of isocyanates. It is also used in the production of polycarbonates and fine chemicals. The possiblity of phosgene–free technology may impact the market for phosgene.
Post‐identification feedback effects: Investigators and evaluators
Authors: MacLean Carla. L. , Brimacombe C.A. Elizabeth , Allison Meredith , Dahl Leora C. , Kadlec Helena
Published: September 2010

We investigated the effects of post‐identification feedback and viewing conditions on beliefs and interviewing tactics of participant‐investigators, crime reports of participant‐witnesses and participant‐evaluators' credibility judgments of the witnesses. Study 1 participants assumed the roles of witness and investigator (N = 167 pairs). Witnesses' view of a simulated crime video was manipulated by distance from viewing monitor: 2 or 9 ft. Participants made a line‐up identification and received either positive feedback or no feedback. Significant effects for witnesses and investigators were associated with viewing condition and post‐identification feedback. Interviews between investigator‐witness pairs were videotaped. Investigators asked more positive, leading questions when they were led to believe that the witness had identified the suspect. In Study 2 evaluators (N = 302) viewed the witness‐investigator interviews. Viewing condition had no effect on judgments of witness credibility but positive post‐identification feedback led evaluators to judge witnesses as more credible than witnesses who received no feedback. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bone marrow reticulin and collagen content in patients with adult chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura: A Danish nationwide study
Authors: Ettrup Marianne Schmidt , Jensen Annette Østergaard , Engebjerg Malene Cramer , Farkas Dóra Körmendiné , Nørgaard Mette , Cha Steven , Zhao Sean , Johansen Preben , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: September 2010

We quantified and differentiated reticulin and collagen content in bone marrow specimens from chronic immune thrombocytopenic (ITP) patients and examined the correlation between some clinical characteristics and the fibrosis grading. Through the Danish National Patient Registry, we identified 378 patients with chronic ITP from 1997 until 2007. Of these, 253 (67%) had undergone at least one bone marrow biopsy, and we retrieved the bone marrow specimens from 187 (74%). We graded the bone marrow content of reticulin and collagen according to the Thiele scale (Grade 0–3). We also retrieved information on patients' clinical characteristics. We examined the prevalence of bone marrow fibrosis grading >0 by patients' age (≤75 years and >75 years), sex, platelet count at baseline (<30 × 109/L, and ≥30 × 109/L), splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and medications. In total 75 chronic ITP patients (40%) had a bone marrow grading >0. Of these, 72 (39%) had Grade 1 reticulin fibers present. Only three patients (<2%) had collagen fibers present: two had Grade 2 and one had Grade 3. The prevalence of bone marrow grading >0 was lower in patients aged >75 years than ≤75 years (prevalence ratio = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.36–1.15) and lower in men than women (prevalence ratio = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.45–1.09), while a baseline platelet count ≥30 × 109/L was associated with a higher prevalence of grading >0 (prevalence ratio = 1.24, 95% CI: 0.81–1.86). Thus, bone marrow reticulin and collagen content in chronic ITP patients may be associated with some clinical characteristics. Am. J. Hematol., 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differences between the normal vaginal bacterial community of baboons and that of humans
Authors: Rivera Angel J. , Frank Jeremy A. , Stumpf Rebecca , Salyers Abigail A. , Wilson Brenda A. , Olsen Gary J. , Leigh Steven
Published: September 2010

Humans and baboons (Papiospp.) share considerable anatomical and physiological similarities in their reproductive tracts. Given the similarities, it is reasonable to expect that the normal vaginal microbial composition (microbiota) of baboons would be similar to that of humans. We have used a 16S rRNA phylogenetic approach to assess the composition of the baboon vaginal microbiota in a set of nine animals from a captive facility and six from the wild. Results show that although Gram‐positive bacteria dominate in baboons as they do in humans, there are major differences between the vaginal microbiota of baboons and that of humans. In contrast to humans, the species of Gram‐positive bacteria (Firmicutes) were taxa other thanLactobacillusspecies. In addition, some groups of Gram‐negative bacteria that are not normally abundant in humans were found in the baboon samples. A further level of difference was also seen even within the same bacterial phylogenetic group, as baboon strains tended to be more phylogenetically distinct from human strains than human strains were with each other. Finally, results of our analysis suggests that co‐evolution of microbes and their hosts cannot account for the major differences between the microbiota of baboons and that of humans because divergences between the major bacterial genera were too ancient to have occurred since primates evolved. Instead, the primate vaginal tracts appear to have acquired discrete subsets of bacteria from the vast diversity of bacteria available in the environment and established a community responsive to and compatible with host species physiology. Am. J. Primatol. 73:119–126, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Measuring infant attachment security in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta): adaptation of the attachment Q‐set
Authors: Warfield James J. , Kondo‐Ikemura Kiyomi , Waters Everett
Published: September 2010

John Bowlby defined offspring–parent attachment as a relationship in which an infant or child uses one or a few preferred adults as a secure base from which to explore and as a haven of safety. He defined attachment security in terms of confidence in the adult's availability and responsiveness and the smooth organization of exploration and proximity seeking. Developmental psychologists have found this perspective productive in both observational and laboratory research. At the same time, they emphasize that such a construct cannot be operationalized in terms of one or a few behaviors. Instead, naturalistic observations of human infant attachment typically employ the Q‐sort method to develop the Attachment q‐set (AQS), 90 behaviorally descriptive items sorted in terms of how characteristic each item is of the infant's typical behavior. Meta‐analyses of research using the AQS attest to its reliability and validity. This article reports an adaptation of the AQS to the task of assessing infant attachment security in nonhuman primates and illustrates its use. The availability of comparable measures of attachment security will contribute to an expanded understanding of patterns of attachment behavior in nonhuman primate societies and will facilitate interaction between comparative and developmental psychologists. Am. J. Primatol. 73:109–118, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Estrous asynchrony causes low birth rates in wild female chimpanzees
Authors: Matsumoto‐Oda Akiko , Ihara Yasuo
Published: September 2010

Estrous cycle asynchrony likely functions to elevate individual females' sexual attractiveness during female mate choice. Female chimpanzees show physiological estrus as anogenital swelling. Copulations are concentrated during the period of maximal tumescence, which is called the estrous period. A group of female chimpanzees in Mahale Mountains National Park, Tanzania, was shown to display asynchrony in both maximal tumescence and periovulatory periods. We tested the hypothesis that females establish asynchronous maximal tumescence or periovulatory periods with respect to other females to increase copulation frequency and birth opportunities (Hypothesis 1). We analyzed differences in birth rates between four asynchronous years and five nonasynchronous years. Counter toHypothesis 1, females in periovulatory periods during asynchronous years showed significantly lower birth rates than those in nonasynchronous years. In addition, periovulatory females copulated more frequently on days on which no other female in a periovulatory period was present. These results suggest that birth rates tend to decrease when females experience nonoverlapping ovulation cycles, although copulation frequency is high. Such a decrease in the birth rate may have resulted from the cost associated with multiple copulations. We tested two other hypotheses: paternity confusion (Hypothesis 2) and sperm competition (Hypothesis 3). Both of these hypotheses were partially supported. The highest‐ranking male most effectively monopolized access to receptive females when relatively few other males and receptive females from the party (or subgroup) were present. The viability ofHypotheses 2and3requires that dominant males are able to hinder a female from mating with other males. Given that the male‐biased operational sex ratio created by female asynchrony is likely to reduce the efficiency of mate guarding by dominant males, an asynchronous female may gain a fitness benefit by increasing the probability of mating with at least one male who produces superior sperm. Am. J. Primatol. 73:180–188, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Defective FA2H leads to a novel form of neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation (NBIA)
Authors: Kruer Michael C. , Paisán‐Ruiz Coro , Boddaert Nathalie , Yoon Moon Y. , Hama Hiroko , Gregory Allison , Malandrini Alessandro , Woltjer Randall L. , Munnich Arnold , Gobin Stephanie , Polster Brenda J. , Palmeri Silvia , Edvardson Simon , Hardy John , Houlden Henry , Hayflick Susan J.
Published: September 2010

Objective

Neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation (NBIA) represents a distinctive phenotype of neurodegenerative disease for which several causative genes have been identified. The spectrum of neurologic disease associated with mutations in NBIA genes is broad, with phenotypes that range from infantile neurodegeneration and death in childhood to adult‐onset parkinsonism‐dystonia. Here we report the discovery of a novel gene that leads to a distinct form of NBIA.

Methods

Using autozygosity mapping and candidate gene sequencing, we identified mutations in the fatty acid hydroxylase gene FA2H, newly implicating abnormalities of ceramide metabolism in the pathogenesis of NBIA.

Results

Neuroimaging demonstrated T2 hypointensity in the globus pallidus, confluent T2 white matter hyperintensities, and profound pontocerebellar atrophy in affected members of two families. Phenotypically, affected family members exhibited spastic quadriparesis, ataxia, and dystonia with onset in childhood and episodic neurological decline. Analogous to what has been reported previously for PLA2G6, the phenotypic spectrum of FA2H mutations is diverse based on our findings and those of prior investigators, because FA2H mutations have been identified in both a form of hereditary spastic paraplegia (SPG35) and a progressive familial leukodystrophy.

Interpretation

These findings link white matter degeneration and NBIA for the first time and implicate new signaling pathways in the genesis of NBIA. ANN NEUROL 2010
A categorical framework for quantum theory
Authors: Filk T. , von Müller A.
Published: September 2010

Underlying any physical theory is a layer of conceptual frames. They connect the mathematical structures used in theoretical models with the phenomena, but they also constitute our fundamental assumptions about reality. Many of the discrepancies between quantum physics and classical physics (including Maxwell's electrodynamics and relativity) can be traced back to these categorical foundations. We argue that classical physics corresponds to the factual aspects of reality and requires a categorical framework which consists of four interdependent components: boolean logic, the linear‐sequential notion of time, the principle of sufficient reason, and the dichotomy between observer and observed. None of these can be dropped without affecting the others. However, quantum theory also addresses the “status nascendi” of facts, i.e., their coming into being. Therefore, quantum physics requires a different conceptual framework which will be elaborated in this article. It is shown that many of its components are already present in the standard formalisms of quantum physics, but in most cases they are highlighted not so much from a conceptual perspective but more from their mathematical structures. The categorical frame underlying quantum physics includes a profoundly different notion of time which encompasses a crucial role for the present. The article introduces the concept of a categorical apparatus (a framework of interdependent categories), explores the appropriate apparatus for classical and quantum theory, and elaborates in particular on the category of non‐sequential time and an extended present which seems to be relevant for a quantum theory of (space)‐time.
Three‐dimensional organotin–hexacyanoferrate polymers as effective oxidizing reagents towards phenols
Authors: Etaiw Safaa El‐din H. , Werida Amal H.
Published: September 2010

Three‐dimensional organotin–hexacyanoferrate polymers of the type ∞3[(R3Sn)3FeIII(CN)6] where R = Me (I), n‐butyl (II) and phenyl (III), represent members of the family of supramolecular coordination polymers (SCPs) which have zeolitic‐like structure containing micropores. The structures of I–III contain wide channels capable of encapsulating resorcinol, which undergoes in situ oxidation to 1,3,4‐trihydroxy benzene (THB) or p‐nitrophenol (PNP), which converts to 1,4‐benzoquinone (BQ) and 2‐hydroxybenzoquinone (2‐HBQ). The oxidation products were investigated by spectroscopic methods and by HPLC. The SCP III was found to be a more effective oxidizing reagent than I and II due to the presence of terminal Sn‐OH2 groups hydrogen bonded to one‐sixth of the terminal CN groups, causing more wide expandable channels. In addition, mechanisms of the oxidation processes of resorcinol and PNP have been proposed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
1,4‐Diiodo‐1,3‐dienes: Versatile Reagents in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Ananikov Valentine P. , Hazipov Oleg V. , Beletskaya Irina P.
Published: September 2010

1,4‐Diiodo‐1,3‐dienes are unique reagents in organic synthesis and have been employed in several well‐known and recently developed areas of application. Furthermore, these dienes are easily accessible, starting from the alkynes and iodine, and they have demonstrated high reactivity in cross‐coupling reactions, organometallic synthesis, in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds, and several other transformations. The high reactivity of the 1,4‐diiodo‐1,3‐dienes allows for the development of synthetic procedures that use mild conditions (room temperature). The key advantages in assembling complex organic molecules, natural products, and compounds for material science using 1,4‐diiodo‐1,3‐dienes as building blocks include high yields, excellent selectivity, and diverse reactivity in carboncarbon and carbonheteroatom bond formation. This Focus Review describes the scope and application of the 1,4‐diiodo‐1,3‐dienes in organic synthesis as well as summarizes the methods for preparation of the dienes.
Might dimming the sun change atmospheric ENSO teleconnections as we know them?
Authors: Braesicke Peter , Morgenstern Olaf , Pyle John
Published: September 2010

We use a troposphere–stratosphere chemistry‐climate model to investigate the impact of a 10% reduction in solar irradiance. Starting from the changes in global mean surface temperature modelled, we study changes of forced atmospheric variability. Large increases in ozone interacting with the meteorology are modelled, exemplified by changes in El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO)‐related teleconnection patterns. The observed Northern Hemisphere centre of action at 50 hPa, modelled in our base integration, disappears in the run with reduced solar irradiance. This change in forced stratospheric variability highlights the point that the assessment of geoengineering schemes need to consider many possible feedbacks. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Dual vascular access for critical limb ischemia: Immediate and follow‐up results
Authors: Yeh Kuan‐Hung , Tsai Yueh‐Ju , Huang Hsuan‐Li , Chou Hsin‐Hua , Chang Hern‐Jia , Ko Yu‐Lin
Published: September 2010

Purpose: To describe a procedural technique involving a combined antegrade femoral and retrograde tibial approach for treatment of complex popliteal and infrapopliteal occlusions, and to determine the safety and efficacy of this technique. Materials and Methods: From May 2008 to March 2010, seven patients presenting with critical limb ischemia received dual vascular access intervention in this institution. Five legs were treated via the retrograde tibial approach after failure of antegrade intervention. A dual access approach was planned and adopted in another two legs. The target vessels were located at popliteal or infrapopliteal arteries. Results: We successfully gained all retrograde tibial access sites and achieved 100% procedural success and immediate hemodynamic improvement. Five legs required stent implantation to optimize the procedural results. No major complication occurred at the tibial access site. During the follow‐up period (11.3 ± 7.2, range 3–23 months), no patients required any major amputation; only one patient underwent a mid‐foot amputation. The target vessel revascularization rate at 3 and 6 months was 0 and 28.6%, respectively. Conclusion: Dual vascular access was successfully used in a small number of selected patients and this technique may hold promise in improving the success rates in the treatment of complex popliteal and infrapopliteal occlusions. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In‐stent restenotic lesions can rupture—A case against plaque sealing
Authors: Hoole Stephen P. , Starovoytov Andrew , Hamburger Jaap N.
Published: September 2010

We present a case of plaque rupture located inside a restenotic stent. Intravascular ultrasound defined a lesion with a minimal lumen area (MLA) of 3.59 cm2, plaque burden of 72%, and reference vessel luminal diameter of 4.0 mm with an external elastic membrane lumen cross‐section area of 12.6 mm2. There was a clearly identified plaque rupture, with a flap‐like dissection within the stented segment. Virtual histology intravascular ultrasound confirmed that the adjacent plaque had necrotic core with a thin overlying fibrous cap. The remaining tissue next to the dissection plane was fibrotic. This case illustrates that neointimal hyperplasia may organize into an unstable plaque, with a thin fibrous cap overlying a lipid‐rich necrotic core—a so‐called virtual histology thin‐capped fibroatheroma. As defined in the PROSPECT trial, the in‐stent stenotic lesion in our case conformed to the definition of a high‐risk plaque—it had an MLA <4 mm2, plaque burden was ≥70%, and there was >10% necrotic core. It became unstable and ruptured. The demonstrated findings of this case may sway physicians against sealing hemodynamically nonsignificant unstable plaques. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Amplatzer vascular plug closure of a subclavian arteriovenous fistula associated with implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator implantation
Authors: Hess Connie Ng , Ohman E. Magnus , Patel Manesh R.
Published: September 2010

Subclavian arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a rare complication of implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) implantation. This report illustrates the case of a subclavian AVF after ICD implantation in a patient with nonischemic cardiomyopathy and the successful closure of this AVF using an Amplatzer vascular occlusion plug. Given the increasing number of ICD implantations, physicians should be made aware of this uncommon complication. In addition, as more percutaneous endovascular techniques are developed to treat peripheral vascular and structural heart disease, iatrogenic AVFs may occur more frequently. The Amplatzer vascular plug should be considered as a potential treatment strategy for AVFs alongside other endovascular and surgical techniques. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acute myocardial infarction and the five‐chambered heart
Authors: Lardizabal Joel A. , Javed Usman , Ambrose John A.
Published: September 2010

The case of a patient presenting with acute inferior ST‐elevation myocardial infarction is described. Emergent coronary angiography of the right coronary artery revealed what appeared to be the abrupt drainage of contrast into a large, peculiar cavity or chamber. Echocardiography and cardiac computed tomography demonstrated a giant right coronary aneurysm in the right coronary artery that gave the impression of a “fifth heart chamber.” The patient underwent successful surgical resection of the aneurysm. Diagnostic and treatment approaches to giant coronary aneurysms are discussed. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
One‐year clinical outcome in an unselected patient population treated with the Genous™ endothelial progenitor cell capturing stent
Authors: Klomp Margo , Beijk Marcel A.M. , Tijssen Jan G.P. , de Winter Robbert J.
Published: September 2010

Objective: We assessed the 1‐year clinical outcome in a large cohort of unselected patients treated with an endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) capturing coronary stent. Background: The novel EPC capturing stent is coated with CD34+ antibodies that bind circulating EPCs to the stent surface, thereby accelerating endothelialization of the stent struts; it is hypothesized that this may prevent restenosis and stent thrombosis. Methods: A total of 405 unselected patients were treated percutaneously with the EPC capturing stent. The majority of patients had complex lesions with an estimated high risk of restenosis. Results: The primary endpoint defined as the composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction (MI), and target lesion revascularization (TLR) at 1‐year was 13.3%, mainly attributable to TLR which was 10.9%. The occurrence of definite and probable ST was low, 0.5 and 0.7%, respectively. Based on the risk of restenosis, in patients with an estimated high risk of restenosis (n = 249), the composite primary endpoint was 16.1% versus 9.0% in patients with an estimated low risk (n = 155). Moreover, the 1 year clinical outcomes in diabetic patient compared well with the nondiabetic patients. Conclusion: In this single‐center study, the 1‐year clinical follow‐up in a “real‐world” population treated with the EPC capturing stent showed good results. Currently, large randomized studies are conducted to evaluate the long‐term safety and efficacy of this stent. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Retrograde approach to recanalization of complex tibial disease
Authors: Rogers R. Kevin , Dattilo Philip B. , Garcia Joel A. , Tsai Thomas , Casserly Ivan P.
Published: September 2010

A significant proportion (∼20%) of patients with complex tibial artery occlusions cannot be treated using a conventional antegrade approach. We report our experience using the retrograde approach for the treatment of complex tibial artery occlusive disease using retrograde pedal/tibial access in 13 limbs from 12 patients. Retrograde pedal/tibial access was achieved in all cases (facilitated by surgical cutdown in one case), and procedural success was achieved in 11 of 13 limbs (85%). Based on this experience, a discussion of clinical and technical aspects of the retrograde pedal/tibial approach is provided, and a new classification for tibial artery occlusive disease is proposed. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rescue treatment by percutaneous closure of interatrial septal defect or PFO in infants with Berlin heart
Authors: Gagliardi Maria Giulia , Papavasileiou Lida , Pongiglione Giacomo
Published: September 2010

During the past two decades, important progress has been achieved in the treatment of end‐stage congestive heart failure in newborns and infants. The use of ventricular assist devices (VAD) in these patients is now available as a bridge to heart transplantation. The use of a VAD may reveal the presence of a silent interatrial septal defect or a patent foramen ovale (PFO), inducing a right to left shunt resulting in systemic desaturation and hemodynamic instability. We present two cases of low weight infants on circulatory support with VADs and right to left shunt through interatrial septum that were successfully treated by percutaneous intervention with an occlusion device.© 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Safety and efficacy of dual‐axis rotational coronary angiography vs. standard coronary angiography
Authors: Klein Andrew J. , Garcia Joel A. , Hudson Paul A. , Kim Michael S. , Messenger John C. , Casserly Ivan P. , Wink Onno , Hattler Brack , Tsai Thomas T. , Chen S.Y. James , Hansgen Adam , Carroll John D.
Published: September 2010

Objective: To determine the safety and efficacy of dual‐axis rotational coronary angiography (DARCA) by directly comparing it to standard coronary angiography (SA). Background: Standard coronary angiography (SA) requires numerous fixed static images of the coronary tree and has multiple well‐documented limitations. Dual‐axis rotational coronary angiography (DARCA) is a new rotational acquisition technique that entails simultaneous LAO/RAO and cranial/caudal gantry movement. This technological advancement obtains numerous unique images of the left or right coronary tree with a single coronary injection. We sought to assess the safety and efficacy of DARCA as well as determine DARCA's adequacy for CAD screening and assessment. Methods: Thirty patients underwent SA following by DARCA. Contrast volume, radiation dose (DAP) and procedural time were recorded for each method to assess safety. For DARCA acquisitions, blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), symptoms and any arrhythmias were recorded. All angiograms were reviewed for CAD screening adequacy by two independent invasive cardiologists. Results: Compared to SA, use of DARCA was associated with a 51% reduction in contrast, 35% less radiation exposure, and 18% shorter procedural time. Both independent reviewers noted DARCA to be at least equivalent to SA with respect to the ability to screen for CAD. Conclusion: DARCA represents a new angiographic technique which is equivalent in terms of image quality and is associated with less contrast use, radiation exposure, and procedural time than SA. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Usage patterns and 1‐year outcomes with the TAXUS Liberté stent: Results of the TAXUS OLYMPIA registry
Authors: Ahmed Waqar H. , Mendiz Oscar A. , Thomas Martyn R. ,   for the TAXUS OLYMPIA Participating Physicians
Published: September 2010

Objectives: The TAXUS OLYMPIA registry is a prospective, global, post‐approval program designed to collect clinical outcome data through 1 year from patients receiving the TAXUS Liberté paclitaxel‐eluting stent in routine interventional cardiology practice. Background: The thin‐strut TAXUS Liberté stent has been studied in ongoing clinical trials with specific inclusion/exclusion criteria. Methods: Between September 2005 and April 2007, a total of 21,954 patients from 365 sites in 57 countries eligible to receive a TAXUS Liberté stent were enrolled in the TAXUS OLYMPIA registry. Baseline characteristics and procedure patterns were collected and clinical follow‐up is available for 1 year. The primary endpoint was the composite cardiac event (cardiac death, MI, and reintervention of the target vessel) rate related to the TAXUS Liberté stent at 1 year. All cardiac events were monitored and all endpoints were independently adjudicated. Results: Complex patients and lesions were prevalent, including: 27% medically‐treated diabetes, 58% ACC/AHA type B2/C lesions, 32% multiple stenting, 13% long lesions (>28 mm), and 10% small vessels (<2.5 mm). At 1 year, the composite cardiac event rate was 4.4%, including 1.4% cardiac death, 1.0% MI, and 3.2% TVR. Stent thrombosis (ST, angiographically confirmed) occurred in 0.8% of patients, with 0.4% ST occurring >30 days postprocedure. The composite cardiac event rate related to the TAXUS Liberté stent was 3.8% at 1 year. Conclusions: Low 1‐year cardiac event rates were reported with TAXUS Liberté in a broad spectrum of patients, thereby confirming the technical and clinical performance of this stent in a “real‐world” setting. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.