bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Low Levels of Mechanical Stress in Aortic Atherosclerotic Lesions From Apolipoprotein E
−/−
Mice—Brief Report
Authors: Broisat Alexis , Toczek Jakub , Mesnier Nicolas , Tracqui Philippe , Ghezzi Catherine , Ohayon Jacques , Riou Laurent M.
Published: March 2011

Objective—

Despite the fact that mechanical stresses are well recognized as key determinants for atherosclerotic plaque rupture, very little is known about stress amplitude and distribution in atherosclerotic lesions, even in the standard apolipoprotein E (apoE)
−/−
mouse model of atherosclerosis. Our objectives were to combine immunohistology, atomic force microscopy measurements, and finite element computational analysis for the accurate quantification of stress amplitude and distribution in apoE
−/−
mouse aortic atherosclerotic lesions.

Methods and Results—

Residual stresses and strains were released by radially cutting aortic arch segments from 7- to 30-week-old pathological apoE
−/−
(n=25) and healthy control mice (n=20). Immunohistology, atomic force microscopy, and biomechanical modeling taking into account regional residual stresses and strains were performed. Maximum stress values were observed in the normal arterial wall (276±71 kPa), whereas low values (<20 kPa) were observed in all plaque areas. Stress distribution was not correlated to macrophage infiltration.

Conclusion—

Low mechanical stress amplitude was observed in apoE
−/−
mouse aortic atherosclerotic lesions. This original study provides a basis for further investigations aimed at determining whether low stress levels are responsible for the apparently higher stability of murine aortic atherosclerotic lesions.
In Vivo Fluorescence Imaging of Large-Vessel Thrombosis in Mice
Authors: Cooley Brian C.
Published: March 2011

Objective—

Experimental studies of large-vessel thrombosis have been adapted for applications in mice, but they proffer limited quantifiable information in outcome measures. This study presents a novel approach for evaluating large-vessel thrombogenesis with temporally/spatially quantifiable measures and normalization methods for interanimal comparisons.

Methods and Results—

Shuttered, beam-expanded lasers provided uniform narrow-wavelength illumination of a ×100 microsurgical field with a large depth of focus. Thrombosis was generated in murine carotid arteries and femoral veins by brief vascular surface electrolytic injury. Thrombus-targeting fluorophores were injected systemically and subsequently localized at the site of thrombus induction. A low-light digital video camera with filter wheel provided target-specific image acquisition over a 60-minute interval. Platelets accumulated with a subsequent fibrin border emerging to stabilize the clot in both arteries and veins. Coagulation enzyme complexes colocalized with fibrin deposition. Large arteries underwent cyclic massive thromboembolization, whereas veins showed gradual shedding of microemboli and clot contraction. Systemic administration of fibrin- and platelet-inhibiting compounds reduced their respective targets but also often inhibited their clotting counterparts (platelets and fibrin, respectively) in both arteries and veins.

Conclusion—

Intermediate-level magnified image capture represents a novel approach for analysis of fluorescence-based in vivo imaging, with quantitative application to the study of large-vessel thrombosis.
Intravascular Ultrasound Results From the NEVO ResElution-I Trial
Authors: Otake Hiromasa , Honda Yasuhiro , Courtney Brian K. , Shimohama Takao , Ako Junya , Waseda Katsuhisa , Macours Nathalie , Rogers Campbell , Popma Jeffrey J. , Abizaid Alexandre , Ormiston John A. , Spaulding Christian , Cohen Sidney A. , Fitzgerald Peter J.
Published: March 2011

Background—

The NEVO sirolimus-eluting stent (NEVO SES) is a novel cobalt-chromium stent combining sirolimus release from reservoirs with bioabsorbable polymer to reduce spatial and temporal polymer exposure. The aim of this study was to assess the arterial response to the NEVO SES in a randomized, blinded comparison versus the surface-coated TAXUS Liberte paclitaxel-eluting stent (TAXUS Liberté PES) in human native coronary lesions using intravascular ultrasound (IVUS).

Methods and Results—

The NEVO ResElution-I IVUS substudy enrolled 100 patients (1:1 randomization). In addition to standard IVUS variables, uniformity of neointimal distribution within stents was evaluated in 3 dimensions by computing mean neointimal thickness within 12 equally spaced radial sectors on every 1-mm cross section along the stented segment. The NEVO SES showed significantly less neointimal proliferation (neointimal obstruction: 5.5±11.0% versus 11.5±9.7%,
P
=0.02), resulting in less late lumen area loss and smaller maximum cross-sectional narrowing at 6 months. The absolute variability of neointima distribution, assessed by the standard deviation of neointimal thickness within each stent, was significantly reduced with the NEVO SES compared with the TAXUS Liberté PES(0.04±0.04 mm versus 0.10±0.07 mm,
P
<0.0001). TAXUS Liberté PES showed significantly greater positive vessel remodeling than the NEVO SES (Δvessel volume index: 1.30±1.36 mm
3
/mm versus 0.36±0.63 mm
3
/mm, respectively,
P
=0.003).

Conclusions—

The NEVO SES with focal release of sirolimus from reservoirs achieved significantly greater and more consistent suppression of neointimal hyperplasia than the surface-coated TAXUS Liberté PES. This was associated with less positive remodeling and no increased morphological or morphometric abnormalities surrounding the stent or at the stent margins.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00714883.
Widespread Increase in Myeloid Calcifying Cells Contributes to Ectopic Vascular Calcification in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Fadini Gian Paolo , Albiero Mattia , Menegazzo Lisa , Boscaro Elisa , Vigili de Kreutzenberg Saula , Agostini Carlo , Cabrelle Anna , Binotto Gianni , Rattazzi Marcello , Bertacco Elisa , Bertorelle Roberta , Biasini Lorena , Mion Monica , Plebani Mario , Ceolotto Giulio , Angelini Annalisa , Castellani Chiara , Menegolo Mirko , Grego Franco , Dimmeler Stefanie , Seeger Florian , Zeiher Andreas , Tiengo Antonio , Avogaro Angelo
Published: March 2011

Rationale:

Acquisition of a procalcific phenotype by resident or circulating cells is important for calcification of atherosclerotic plaques, which is common in diabetes.

Objective:

We aim to identify and characterize circulating calcifying cells, and to delineate a pathophysiological role for these cells in type 2 diabetes.

Methods and Results:

We demonstrate for the first time that a distinct subpopulation of circulating cells expressing osteocalcin and bone alkaline phosphatase (OC
+
BAP
+
) has procalcific activity in vitro and in vivo. The study of naïve patients with chronic myeloid leukemia indicated that OC
+
BAP
+
cells have a myeloid origin. Myeloid calcifying OC
+
BAP
+
cells (MCCs) could be differentiated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and generation of MCCs was closely associated with expression of the osteogenic transcription factor Runx2. In gender-mismatched bone marrow–transplanted humans, circulating MCCs had a much longer half-life compared with OC
−
BAP
−
cells, suggesting they belong to a stable cell repertoire. The percentage of MCCs was higher in peripheral blood and bone marrow of type 2 diabetic patients compared with controls but was lowered toward normal levels by optimization of glycemic control. Furthermore, diabetic carotid endoarterectomy specimens showed higher degree of calcification and amounts of cells expressing OC and BAP in the α-smooth muscle actin–negative areas surrounding calcified nodules, where CD68
+
macrophages colocalize. High glucose increased calcification by MCCs in vitro, and hypoxia may regulate MCC generation in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions:

These data identify a novel type of blood-derived procalcific cells potentially involved in atherosclerotic calcification of diabetic patients.
Incidence of Stroke and Socioeconomic Neighborhood Characteristics
Authors: Grimaud Olivier , Béjot Yannick , Heritage Zoe , Vallée Julie , Durier Jerôme , Cadot Emmanuelle , Giroud Maurice , Chauvin Pierre
Published: March 2011

Background and Purpose—

Studies have shown higher stroke incidence in areas with higher levels of deprivation. We aimed to determine the pattern of association between various area socioeconomic status (SES) indicators and stroke incidence in specific sex and age groups.

Methods—

Data are from the Dijon stroke registry for the period 1995 to 2003. The analyses included 1255 cases aged older than 40 (median age, 76.8). Poisson regression was used to model stroke incidence according to the SES level of 61 small areas.

Results—

Among women, stroke incidence was higher in neighborhoods with large income inequality (incidence rate ratio, 1.34;
P
=0.003), higher proportions of unemployed (1.24;
P
=0.02), of non-French nationals (1.21,
P
=0.02), and of rented housing (1.31;
P
=0.03). Areas with a higher proportion of people aged older than 60 were associated with lower stroke incidence (incidence rate ratio, 0.72;
P
=0.01). Analysis by specific age-groups showed stronger effects among the 60- to 74-year-olds. Among men, no associations between SES and stroke incidence were identified overall but analysis by age groups showed significant effect among the 40- to 59-year-olds. In this age group, incidence rate ratios were 1.47 for unemployment (
P
=0.01), 1.86 for no car ownership (
P
=0.02), and 1.56 for income inequality (
P
=0.01). Among stroke cases, no trend in vascular risk factors prevalence according to area SES was identified.

Conclusions—

Variations of stroke incidence were more marked for the SES indicators of wealth and of income inequality. They were apparent at an earlier age in men and showed a stronger gradient among women.
Promoting Thrombolysis in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Dirks Maaike , Niessen Louis W. , van Wijngaarden Jeroen D.H. , Koudstaal Peter J. , Franke Cees L. , van Oostenbrugge Robert J. , Huijsman Robbert , Lingsma Hester F. , Minkman Mirella M.N. , Dippel Diederik W.J. ,   for the PRomoting ACute Thrombolysis in Ischemic StrokE (PRACTISE) Investigators
Published: March 2011

Background and Purpose—

Thrombolysis with intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator is an effective treatment for acute ischemic stroke, but the number of treatable patients is limited. The PRomoting ACute Thrombolysis in Ischemic StrokE (PRACTISE) trial evaluated the effectiveness of a multidimensional implementation strategy for thrombolysis with intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator in acute ischemic stroke.

Methods—

The PRACTISE trial was a national multicenter cluster-randomized controlled trial with randomization after pairwise matching. Twelve hospitals, both urban and community, academic and nonacademic, in the Netherlands participated. All patients admitted with stroke within 24 hours from onset of symptoms were registered. The intervention included 5 implementation meetings based on the Breakthrough Series model. The primary outcome was treatment with thrombolysis. Secondary outcomes were admission within 4 hours after onset of symptoms, death or disability at 3 months, and quality of life.

Results—

Overall 5515 patients were included in the study' 308 patients (12.2%) in the control centers and 393 patients (13.1%) in the intervention centers were treated with thrombolysis (adjusted OR, 1.25; 95% CI, 0.93 to 1.68). Among the 1657 patients with ischemic stroke admitted within 4 hours from onset, 391 (44.5%) of 880 in the intervention centers were treated with thrombolysis and 305 (39.3%) of 777 in the control centers; the adjusted OR for treatment with thrombolysis was 1.58 (95% CI, 1.11 to 2.27).

Conclusions—

An intensive implementation strategy increases the proportion of patients with acute stroke treated with thrombolysis in real-life settings. An apparently pivotal factor in the improvement of the treatment rate is better application of contraindications for thrombolysis.
Knowledge of Ischemic Stroke Risk Factors and Warning Signs After a Health Education Program by Medical Students
Authors: Gutiérrez-Jiménez Eugenio , Góngora-Rivera Fernando , Martínez Héctor R. , Escamilla-Garza Juan M. , Villarreal Héctor Jorge
Published: March 2011

Background and Purpose—

A delay in recognizing early warning signs (WS) and risk factors (RF) of ischemic stroke causes a delay in treatment. We evaluated knowledge of RF and WS and the impact of an educational program by medical students.

Methods—

We first surveyed individuals to determine knowledge of WS and RF. Then, after a 6-month education program, knowledge was reassessed. The questionnaire included sociodemographic and comorbidity data. A χ
2
and Mann-Whitney
U
test, as well as a multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine variables associated with knowledge, were used.

Results—

We performed 329 baseline and 355 posteducation surveys. Initially, 57.1% mentioned at least 1 RF; this later increased to 65.9%. Mentions of obesity, dyslipidemias, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus increased significantly. With regard to WS, 37.6% mentioned at least 1, which increased to 48.1% who mentioned weakness in 1 limb, in half the body, severe headache, and altered vision. Educational level (OR, 2.53; 95% CI, 1.42–4.53;
P
=0.001), employment (OR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.08–2.74;
P
=0.021), a family history of brain infarction (OR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.35–4.11;
P
=0.02), obesity (OR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.026–2.6;
P
=0.038), and having received information in the last 6 months (OR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.51–4.83;
P
=0.001) were associated with a better understanding of RF and WS.

Conclusions—

The educational program was cost-effective and had a positive impact on knowledge of RF and WS of ischemic stroke. More education programs are required to improve knowledge of ischemic stroke.
Silent Brain Infarcts
Authors: Zhu Yi-Cheng , Dufouil Carole , Tzourio Christophe , Chabriat Hugues
Published: March 2011

Background and Purpose—

Silent brain infarcts (SBIs) have been recognized as common lesions in elderly subjects and their diagnosis relies on brain imaging. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the different MRI parameters and criteria used for their evaluation in the literature to better understand the variation across studies and related limitations.

Method—

Original MRI studies of SBI performed in human populations and reported in the English literature were reviewed. Analyses were restricted to population-based studies or studies in which at least 50 subjects with SBI were detected. The MRI parameters as well as the MRI criteria of SBI (size, signal characteristics, and criteria for differentiation of dilated Virchow-Robin spaces) were described and analyzed.

Result—

Magnetic field strength, slice thickness, and gap between slices greatly varied among the 45 articles included in this review. The MRI definition of SBI was inconsistent across studies. In half of them, SBI was defined as hypointense on T1 and hyperintense on T2-weighted images. Exclusion criteria for dilated Virchow-Robin spaces were used only in 7 studies.

Conclusions—

The variation in MRI characteristics and diagnostic criteria for SBI represent a major limitation for interpretation and comparison of data between studies. Efforts are needed to reach unified imaging criteria for SBI.
Autonomic Shift and Increased Susceptibility to Infections After Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Sykora Marek , Diedler Jennifer , Poli Sven , Rizos Timolaos , Turcani Peter , Veltkamp Roland , Steiner Thorsten
Published: March 2011

Background and Purpose—

High infection rate after severe stroke may partly relate to brain-induced immunodepression syndrome. However, the underlying pathophysiology remains unclear. The aim of the current study was to investigate the role of autonomic shift in increased susceptibility to infection after acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods—

We retrospectively analyzed 62 selected patients with acute ICH from our prospective database. Autonomic shift was assessed using the cross-correlational baroreflex sensitivity (BRS). The occurrence and cause of in-hospital infections were assessed based on the clinical and laboratory courses. Demographic and clinical data including initial stroke severity, hemorrhage volume, intraventricular blood extension, history of aspiration, and invasive procedures such as mechanical ventilation, surgical hematoma evacuation, external ventricular drainage, central venous and urinary catheters, and nasogastric feeding were recorded and included in the analysis.

Results—

We identified 36 (58%) patients with infection during the first 5 days of hospital stay. Patients with infections had significantly lower BRS, higher initial NIHSS scores, larger hemorrhages, and more frequently had intraventricular blood extension and underwent invasive procedures. In the multivariate regression model, decreased BRS (OR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.32–0.91;
P
=0.02) and invasive procedures (OR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.5–3.6;
P
<0.001) remained independent predictors for an infection after ICH.

Conclusions—

Decreased BRS was independently associated with infections after ICH. Autonomic shift may play an important role in increased susceptibility to infections after acute brain injury including ICH. The possible therapeutic relevance of autonomic modulation warrants further studies.
CT and MRI Early Vessel Signs Reflect Clot Composition in Acute Stroke
Authors: Liebeskind David S. , Sanossian Nerses , Yong William H. , Starkman Sidney , Tsang Michael P. , Moya Antonio L. , Zheng David D. , Abolian Anna M. , Kim Doojin , Ali Latisha K. , Shah Samir H. , Towfighi Amytis , Ovbiagele Bruce , Kidwell Chelsea S. , Tateshima Satoshi , Jahan Reza , Duckwiler Gary R. , Viñuela Fernando , Salamon Noriko , Villablanca J. Pablo , Vinters Harry V. , Marder Victor J. , Saver Jeffrey L.
Published: March 2011

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of this study was to provide the first correlative study of the hyperdense middle cerebral artery sign (HMCAS) and gradient-echo MRI blooming artifact (BA) with pathology of retrieved thrombi in acute ischemic stroke.

Methods—

Noncontrast CT and gradient-echo MRI studies before mechanical thrombectomy in 50 consecutive cases of acute middle cerebral artery ischemic stroke were reviewed blinded to clinical and pathology data. Occlusions retrieved by thrombectomy underwent histopathologic analysis, including automated quantitative and qualitative rating of proportion composed of red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells, and fibrin on microscopy of sectioned thrombi.

Results—

Among 50 patients, mean age was 66 years and 48% were female. Mean (SD) proportion was 61% (±21) fibrin, 34% (±21) RBCs, and 4% (±2) white blood cells. Of retrieved clots, 22 (44%) were fibrin-dominant, 13 (26%) RBC-dominant, and 15 (30%) mixed. HMCAS was identified in 10 of 20 middle cerebral artery stroke cases with CT with mean Hounsfield Unit density of 61 (±8 SD). BA occurred in 17 of 32 with gradient-echo MRI. HMCAS was more commonly seen with RBC-dominant and mixed than fibrin-dominant clots (100% versus 67% versus 20%,
P
=0.016). Mean percent RBC composition was higher in clots associated with HMCAS (47% versus 22%,
P
=0.016). BA was more common in RBC-dominant and mixed clots compared with fibrin-dominant clots (100% versus 63% versus 25%,
P
=0.002). Mean percent RBC was greater with BA (42% versus 23%,
P
=0.011).

Conclusions—

CT HMCAS and gradient-echo MRI BA reflect pathology of occlusive thrombus. RBC content determines appearance of HMCAS and BA, whereas absence of HMCAS or BA may indicate fibrin-predominant occlusive thrombi.
Cerebral Microembolism During Coronary Angiography
Authors: Jurga Juliane , Nyman Jesper , Tornvall Per , Mannila Maria Nastase , Svenarud Peter , van der Linden Jan , Sarkar Nondita
Published: March 2011

Background and Purpose—

Microemboli observed during coronary angiography can cause silent ischemic cerebral lesions. The aim of this study was to investigate if the number of particulate cerebral microemboli during coronary angiography is influenced by access site used.

Methods—

Fifty-one patients with stable angina pectoris referred for coronary angiography were randomized to right radial or right femoral arterial access. The number of particulate microemboli passing the middle cerebral arteries was continuously registered with transcranial Doppler.

Results—

The median (minimum–maximum range) numbers of particulate emboli were significantly higher with radial 10 (1–120) than with femoral 6 (1–19) access. More particulate microemboli passed the right middle cerebral artery with the radial access.

Conclusions—

This study indicates that the radial access used for coronary angiography generates more particulate cerebral microemboli than the femoral access and thus may influence the occurrence of silent cerebral injuries.
Interannual Variations of Summer Monsoons: Sensitivity to Cloud Radiative Forcing
Authors: Sharma O. P. , Le Treut H. , Sèze G. , Fairhead L. , Sadourny R.
Published: March 2011

The sensitivity of the interannual variations of the summer monsoons to imposed cloudiness has been studied with a general circulation model using the initial conditions prepared from the European Centre for Medium-Range Forecasts analyses of 1 May 1987 and 1988. The cloud optical properties in this global model are calculated from prognostically computed cloud liquid water. The model successfully simulates the contrasting behavior of these two successive monsoons. However, when the optical properties of the observed clouds are specified in the model runs, the simulations show some degradation over India and its vicinity. The main cause of this degradation is the reduced land–sea temperature contrast resulting from the radiative effects of the observed clouds imposed in such simulations. It is argued that the high concentration of condensed water content of clouds over the Indian land areas will serve to limit heating of the land, thereby reducing the thermal contrast that gives rise to a weak Somali jet. A countermonsoon circulation is, therefore, simulated in the vector difference field of 850-hPa winds from the model runs with externally specified clouds. This countermonsoon circulation is associated with an equatorial heat source that is the response of the model to the radiative effects of the imposed clouds. Indeed, there are at least two clear points that can be made: 1) the cloud–SST patterns, together, affect the interannual variability; and 2) with both clouds and SST imposed, the model simulation is less sensitive to initial conditions. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of dynamically consistent clouds developing in response to the dynamical, thermal, and moist state of the atmosphere during model integrations.
High-Resolution Satellite Analysis and Model Evaluation of Clouds and Radiation over the Mackenzie Basin Using AVHRR Data
Authors: Garand Louis , Nadon Serge
Published: March 2011

Both the issues of high-resolution satellite analysis and model evaluation for a region centered on the Arctic Circle (60°–75°N) are addressed. Model cloud fraction, cloud height, and outgoing radiation are compared to corresponding satellite observations using a model-to-satellite approach (calculated radiances from model state). The dataset consists of forecasts run at 15-km resolution up to 30 h and nearly coincident Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) imagery during the Beaufort and Arctic Storm Experiment over the Mackenzie Basin for a monthly period in the fall of 1994. A cloud detection algorithm is designed for day and night application using the 11-μ channel of AVHRR along with available information on atmospheric and ground temperatures. The satellite and model estimates of cloud fraction are also compared to observations at 20 ground stations.

A significant result of the validation is that the model has a higher frequency of low cloud tops and a lower frequency of midlevel cloud tops than the observations. On a monthly basis, the model 11-μ outgoing brightness temperature (TB) is consequently higher than observed by about 4.4 K at all forecast times, which corresponds to a deficit of 760 m in mean cloud-top height and about 10 W m−2 in outgoing flux at the top of the atmosphere. Possible errors in the parameterization of ice or water cloud emissivity are evaluated but ruled out as the dominant cause for the warm TB bias in the model. Rather, the problem is attributed to low clouds being trapped in the boundary layer, whereas high clouds appear to be reasonably well modeled.

The role of thin ice clouds is further evaluated by comparing distributions of observed and modeled 11-μ minus 12-μ TB differences, DIF45 (channel 4 minus channel 5). The relationship between the true height of the clouds and the effective height observed by satellite is modeled from forecast outputs as a function of DIF45. The quality of daily estimates is evaluated from time series at various locations. The time series shows that there was a marked drop in DIF45 during the month, which is attributed to a decrease in the occurrence of cirrus clouds. Finally, the diurnal cycle of TB and cloud fraction is found to be relatively large with average monthly 0600–1800 UTC TB differences of both signs of the order of 4–8 K in broad sectors and cloud fraction differences of 10%–30%. Where low clouds prevail, the cloud fraction tends to decrease at night and TB increases. Overall, model–observation differences are dominated by differences in the vertical distribution of clouds. A reduction of this effect implies a modification of the “preferred” model climatology in terms of its vertical distribution of humidity and cloud water.
Analysis of the Merging Procedure for the MSU Daily Temperature Time Series
Authors: Christy John R. , Spencer Roy W. , Lobl Elena S.
Published: March 2011

The merging procedure utilized to generate homogeneous time series of three deep-layer atmospheric temperature products from the nine microwave sounding units (MSUs) is described. A critically important aspect in the process is determining and removing the bias each instrument possesses relative to a common base (here being NOAA-6). Special attention is given to the lower-tropospheric layer and the calculation of the bias of the NOAA-9 MSU and its rather considerable impact on the trend of the overall time series. We show that the bias is best calculated by a direct comparison between NOAA-6 and NOAA-9, though there other possible methods available, and is determined to be +0.50°C. Spurious variations of individual MSUs due to orbital drift and/or cyclic variations tied to the annual cycle are also identified and eliminated. In general, intersatellite biases for the three instruments that form the backbone of the time series (MSUs on NOAA-6, -10 and -12) are known to within 0.01°C.

After slight modifications in the treatment of the bias, drift-error, and cyclic fluctuations, the authors produced a time series in which the decadal trend is +0.03°C warmer than previously reported for the lower troposphere. Because they are of much higher precision, the midtropospheric and lower-stratospheric products are only slightly affected by alterations to procedures applied in this study.

Recent suggestions that spurious jumps were present in the lower-tropospheric time series of earlier versions of the MSU data based on SST comparisons are addressed. Using independent comparisons of different satellites, radiosondes, and night marine air temperatures, no indication is found of the presence of these “spurious” jumps.
The Bloomsburg Weather Viewer: A Resource for Integrating Webcam and Local Weather station Data into the Introductory Meteorology Classroom
Authors: Brunskill Jeff , Jones Curt
Published: March 2011

No abstract available.
Assimilating Satellite Observations of Clouds and Precipitation into NWP Models
Authors: Bauer Peter , Ohring George , Kummerow Chris , Auligne Tom
Published: March 2011

No Abstract available.
Emergence of Wind-Driven Near-Inertial Waves in the Deep Ocean Triggered by Small-Scale Eddy Vorticity Structures
Authors: Danioux Eric , Klein Patrice , Hecht Matthew W. , Komori Nobumasa , Roullet Guillaume , Le Gentil Sylvie
Published: March 2011

Using numerical simulations forced by a uniform realistic wind time series, the authors show that the presence of a mesoscale eddy field at midlatitudes accelerates the vertical propagation of the wind-forced near-inertial waves (NIW) and produces the emergence of a maximum of vertical velocity into the deep ocean (around 2500 m) characterized by a mean amplitude of 25 m day−1, a dominant 2f frequency, and scales as small as O(30 km). These results differ from previous studies that reported a smaller depth and larger scales. The authors show that the larger depth observed in the present study (2500 m instead of 1700 m) is due to the wind forcing duration that allows the first five baroclinic modes to disperse and to impact the deep NIW maximum (instead of the first two modes as reported before). The smaller scales (30 km instead of 90 km) are explained by a resonance mechanism (described in previous studies) that affects the high NIW baroclinic modes, but only when small-scale relative vorticity structures (related to the mesoscale eddy field) have an amplitude that is large enough. These results, which point out the importance of the wind forcing duration and the resolution, indicate that the emergence of a deep NIW maximum with a 2f frequency reported before is a robust feature that is enhanced with more realistic conditions. Such 2f frequency in the deep interior raises the question of the mechanisms, still unresolved, that may ultimately transfer this superinertial energy into mixing at these depths.
Diagnosing Lateral Mixing in the Upper Ocean with Virtual Tracers: Spatial and Temporal Resolution Dependence
Authors: Keating Shane R. , Smith K. Shafer , Kramer Peter R.
Published: March 2011

Several recent studies diagnose lateral stirring and mixing in the upper ocean using altimetry-derived velocity fields to advect “virtual” particles and fields offline. However, the limited spatiotemporal resolution of altimetric maps leads to errors in the inferred diagnostics, because unresolved scales are necessarily imperfectly modeled. The authors examine a range of tracer diagnostics in two models of baroclinic turbulence: the standard Phillips model, in which dispersion is controlled by large-scale eddies, and the Eady model, where dispersion is determined by local scales of motion. These models serve as a useful best- and worst-case comparison and a valuable test of the resolution sensitivity of tracer diagnostics.

The effect of unresolved scales is studied by advecting tracers using model velocity fields subsampled in space and time and comparing the derived tracer diagnostics with their “true” value obtained from the fully resolved flow. The authors find that eddy diffusivity and absolute dispersion, which are governed by large-scale dynamics, are insensitive to spatial sampling error in either flow. Measures that depend strongly on small scales, such as relative dispersion and finite-time Lyapunov exponents, are highly sensitive to spatial sampling in the Eady model. Temporal sampling error is found to have a more complicated behavior because of the onset of particle overshoot leading to scrambling of Lagrangian diagnostics. This leads to a potential restriction on the utility of raw altimetry maps for studying mixing in the upper ocean. The authors conclude that offline diagnostics of mixing in ocean flows with an energized submesoscale should be viewed with some caution.
Sensitivity of Dynamical Intraseasonal Prediction Skills to Different Initial Conditions
Authors: Fu Xiouhua , Wang Bin , Lee June-Yi , Wang Wanqiu , Gao Li
Published: March 2011

Predictability of intraseasonal oscillation (ISO) relies on both initial conditions and lower boundary conditions (or atmosphere–ocean interaction). The atmospheric reanalysis datasets are commonly used as initial conditions. Here, the biases of three reanalysis datasets [the NCEP reanalysis 1 and 2 (NCEP-R1 and -R2) and the ECMWF Re-Analysis Interim (ERA-Interim)] in describing ISO were briefly revealed and the impacts of these biases as initial conditions on ISO prediction skills were assessed. A signal-recovery method is proposed to improve ISO prediction.

Although all three reanalyses underestimate the intensity of the equatorial eastward-propagating ISO, the overall quality of the ERA-Interim is better than the NCEP-R1 and -R2. When these reanalyses are used as initial conditions in the ECHAM4-University of Hawaii hybrid coupled model (UH-HCM), skillful ISO prediction reaches only about 1 week for both the 850-hPa zonal winds (U850) and rainfall over Southeast Asia and the global tropics. An enhanced nudging of the divergence field is shown to significantly improve the initial conditions, resulting in an extension of the skillful rainfall prediction by 2–4 days and U850 prediction by 5–10 days.

After recovering the ISO signals in the original reanalyses, the resultant initial conditions contain ISO strength closer to the observed, whereas the rainfall spatial pattern correlation in the ERA-Interim reanalysis drops. The resultant ISO prediction skills, however, are consistently extended for all the NCEP and ERA-Interim reanalyses. Using these signal-recovered reanalyses as initial conditions, the boreal summer ISO prediction skill measured with the Wheeler–Hendon index reaches 14 days. The U850 and rainfall prediction skills, respectively, reach 23 and 18 days over Southeast Asia. It is also found that small-scale synoptic weather disturbances in initial conditions generally increase ISO prediction skills. Both the UH-HCM and NCEP Climate Forecast System (CFS) suffer the prediction barrier over the Maritime Continent.
Objective Debiasing for Improved Forecasting of Tropical Cyclone Intensity with a Global Circulation Model
Authors: Goswami P. , Mallick S. , Gouda K. C.
Published: March 2011

The damage potential of a tropical cyclone is proportional to a power (generally greater than one) of intensity, which demands high accuracy in forecasting intensity for managing this natural disaster. However, the current skill in forecasting cyclone intensity is rather limited, especially over the north Indian Ocean, with very little improvement over the years. A methodology is presented here for objective nonlinear debiasing to generate intensity forecasts with enhanced reliability from raw forecasts. The intensity forecast is generated using an optimized configuration of a variable resolution global circulation model (VR-GCM) that combines the advantages of a limited area model and a global model. The hindcasts were carried out in a completely operational setting, that is, without assuming any observed information beyond the day of the initial condition. The VR-GCM and a nonlinear debiasing were found to provide skill (skill score ~0.5) in forecasting tropical cyclone intensity 2–7 days (variable depending on event) in advance for the 30 cases including storms and cyclones representing different locations, seasons, and years (1990–2005) over the Bay of Bengal. Two types of debiasing are considered: nonlinear debiasing with all observations (potential skill) and nonlinear debiasing for realizable skill (training without in-sample data). It is shown that while skill scores without debiasing are only marginally better than a climatological forecast (null hypothesis), the skill score with a nonlinear debiasing is appreciable. The climatological forecast has zero skill score, a mean absolute error of 12.9 m s−1, and 20% of the cases are in the error bin −5 to +5 m s−1; the corresponding numbers for debiased forecasts for realizable skill are 0.65, 6.4 m s−1, and 57%. It is further shown that the nonlinear debiasing is also effective in improving forecast of (3-hourly) intensity change. While a strict comparison of skill with other methods requires experiments to be carried out for the same events, a comparison of the skill of other methods and over different ocean basins based on available data shows the present method to have comparable skill. However, it may be noted that the present conclusions are based on a relatively small (30 events) sample size; evaluation with a much large sample size is desirable for actual application.
Cultural Globalization as the Emergence of a Transnational Cultural Field: Transnational Television and National Media Landscapes in Four European Countries
Authors: Kuipers Giselinde
Published: March 2011

This article analyzes cultural globalization as the emergence of a transnational cultural field, integrating Bourdieusian field theory with globalization theory. Drawing on interview materials and secondary data analysis, it compares the “opening up” of national television fields in France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Poland and the formation of a transnational TV field with (partly) its own standards, practices, and cultural geography. Cultural intermediaries, such as television buyers, are crucial to this transnational field, mediating and maintaining relations between the national and transnational arenas. These transnational professional create transnational practices and quality standards and diffuse them into national cultural fields.
The Effect of Physician—Parent Discussions and a Brief Intervention on Caregivers’ Plan to Discipline: Is it Time for a New Approach?
Authors: Scholer Seth J. , Hudnut-Beumler Julia , Dietrich Mary S.
Published: March 2011

Consecutive English- or Spanish-speaking caregivers of 1- to 5-year-old children were randomized to view a multimedia program (approximately 5-10 minutes) in a pediatric primary care clinic. After the clinic visit, 258/259 caregivers participated in a brief personal interview. In the multivariate logistic model, caregivers were more likely to have been assisted in their plans to discipline if they had had a discussion about discipline with their physician (odds ratio [OR] = 4.93; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08-22.46), viewed the multimedia program (OR = 259.29; 95% CI = 56.56-1188.61), or viewed the multimedia program and had had a discussion with their physician (OR = 507.05; 95% CI = 86.81-2961.45) than if they had had no discussion and had not viewed the multimedia program. In addition to face-to-face discussions, routinely viewed educational material may help teach caregivers about discipline. The results have implications for improving primary care services, child abuse prevention, and violence prevention.
LPS Sensitizes TRPV1 via Activation of TLR4 in Trigeminal Sensory Neurons
Authors: Diogenes A. , Ferraz C.C.R. , Akopian A.N. , Henry M.A. , Hargreaves K.M.
Published: March 2011

Recent studies have demonstrated that the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) receptor (TLR4) is expressed in TRPV1 containing trigeminal sensory neurons. In this study, we evaluated whether LPS activates trigeminal neurons, and sensitizes TRPV1 responses via TLR4. To test this novel hypothesis, we first demonstrated that LPS binds to receptors in trigeminal neurons using competitive binding. Second, we demonstrated that LPS evoked aconcentration-dependent increase in intracellular calcium accumulation (Ca2+)i and inward currents. Third, LPS significantly sensitized TRPV1 to capsaicin measured by (Ca2+)i, release of calcitonin gene-related peptide, and inward currents. Importantly, a selective TLR4 antagonist blocked these effects. Analysis of these data, collectively, demonstrates that LPS is capable of directly activating trigeminal neurons, and sensitizing TRPV1 via a TLR4-mediated mechanism. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that trigeminal neurons are capable of detecting pathogenic bacterial components leading to sensitization of TRPV1, possibly contributing to the inflammatory pain often observed in bacterial infections.
Hyperocclusion Stimulates Osteoclastogenesis via CCL2 Expression
Authors: Goto K.T. , Kajiya H. , Nemoto T. , Tsutsumi T. , Tsuzuki T. , Sato H. , Okabe K.
Published: March 2011

Excessive mechanical stress (MS) during hyperocclusion is known to result in disappearance of the alveolar hard line, enlargement of the periodontal ligament (PDL) space, and destruction of alveolar bone, leading to occlusal traumatism. We hypothesized that MS induces expression of osteoclastogenesis-associated chemokines in PDL tissue, resulting in chemotaxis and osteoclastogenesis during occlusal traumatism. We examined the effect of MS on relationships between chemokine expression and osteoclastogenesis using in vivo and in vitro hyperocclusion models. In an in vitro model, intermittent stretching-induced MS was shown to up-regulate the expression of CC chemokine ligand (CCL)2, CCL3, and CCL5 in PDL cells. The expression levels of CCL2 in PDL tissues, its receptor CCR2 in pre-osteoclasts, and tartrate-resistant acid-phosphatase-positive cells in alveolar bone were significantly up-regulated 4-7 days after excessive MS during hyperocclusion in in vivo rodent models. Hyperocclusion predominantly induced CCL2 expression in PDL tissues and promoted chemotaxis and osteoclastogenesis, leading to MS-dependent alveolar bone destruction during occlusal traumatism. Abbreviations: MS, mechanical stress; PDL, periodontal ligament; CCL2, CC chemokine ligand 2; MCP-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1; CCR2, CC chemokine receptor 2; CCL3, CC chemokine ligand 3 (MIP-1α); CCL5, CC chemokine ligand 5 (RANTES); CXCL12, CXC chemokine ligand 12 (SDF-1).
Insights from Studies with Oral Cleft Genes Suggest Associations between WNT-pathway Genes and Risk of Oral Cancer
Authors: Andrade Filho P.A. , Letra A. , Cramer A. , Prasad J.L. , Garlet G.P. , Vieira A.R. , Ferris R.L. , Menezes R.
Published: March 2011

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) accounts for more than 90% of the malignant neoplasms that arise in the mucosa of the upper aerodigestive tract. Recent studies of cleft lip/palate have shown the association of genes involved in cancer. WNT pathway genes have been associated with several types of cancer and recently with cleft lip/palate. To investigate if genes associated with cleft lip/palate were also associated with oral cancer, we genotyped 188 individuals with OSCC and 225 control individuals for markers in AXIN2, AXIN1, GSK3β, WNT3A, WNT5A, WNT8A, WNT11, WNT3, and WNT9B. Statistical analysis was performed with PLINK 1.06 software to test for differences in allele frequencies of each polymorphism between cases and controls. We found association of SNPs in GSK3B (p = 0.0008) and WNT11 (p = 0.03) with OSCC. We also found overtransmission of GSK3B haplotypes in OSCC cases. Expression analyses showed up-regulation of WNT3A, GSK3B, and AXIN1 and down-regulation of WNT11 in OSCC in comparison with control tissues (P < 0.001). Additional studies should focus on the identification of potentially functional variants in these genes as contributors to human clefting and oral cancer.
Competitiveness and Social Cohesion in Western European Cities
Authors: Ranci Costanzo
Published: March 2011

European cities are historically characterised by a strong association between social cohesion and competitiveness. However, in recent years, this stability has been affected by strains induced by rising new inequalities and increasing competition among cities. These facts have raised the need for a new understanding of the relationship between cohesion and competitiveness. This paper draws on a selection of social and economic indicators to explore this multifaceted relationship in 50 European cities, selected on the basis of their size and international role. The aims of the analysis are to assess the position of each European city, to identify clusters of cities and to suggest an interpretative hypothesis in order to characterise the particularities of this relationship in European cities.
Troublesome Leisure Travel
Authors: Holden Erling , Linnerud Kristin
Published: March 2011

Sustainable passenger transport policies are most often directed towards everyday travel and ignore the large and expanding amount of leisure travel. The paper examines whether policies aimed at reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions for everyday travel may have the opposite effect on leisure travel by reviewing studies of three sustainable passenger transport policies: developing more compact cities, building pro-environment awareness and attitudes, and promoting the growth of information and communication technologies. We found that the policies may indeed have unintended effects and suggest several mechanisms that could explain why this opposite effect occurs. Consideration is also given to the implications for developing more comprehensive sustainable transport policies.
Understanding the ‘Village in the City’ in Guangzhou
Authors: Lin Yanliu , de Meulder Bruno , Wang Shifu
Published: March 2011

As with many cities in China experiencing rapid urbanisation, Guangzhou is undergoing a specific form of urban development characterised by the engulfing of rural settlements: a process resulting in the so-called village in the city. This paper uses three modes of economic integration (redistribution, market exchange and reciprocity) as a framework to examine the interrelationship of various development issues and conditions of these villages. It shows that the poor integration in the spheres of state redistribution and formal market exchange pushes migrants to focus on survival strategies that relate to the self-organisation of housing, employment and education. It also makes a critical review of several (re)development projects, each relating to one or more of the different modes of economic integration. This paper concludes that new project approaches that organise a productive interplay between market exchange, redistribution and reciprocity are needed.
Urban Alchemy
Authors: Müller Floris
Published: March 2011

According to certain scholars, the multicultural (global) city may constitute the ultimate site for the development of cosmopolitan sensibilities. Taken to the extreme, the assumed properties of urban life amount to a veritable ‘urban alchemy’: the belief that diverse and divided populations of urban dwellers may potentially be transformed into one harmonious community of cosmopolitan citizens. This paper presents an analysis of the meaning of urban cosmopolitanism to urban dwellers themselves. Heeding the calls for a more grounded, empirical approach to the phenomenon of ‘ordinary’ cosmopolitanisms, urban cosmopolitanism is defined as those discursive social practices in which people manage to supersede the parochialisms of their own national, ethnic and religious identities through an identification with the city. Data from 16 focus groups in London and Amsterdam demonstrate that the performance of urban cosmopolitanism was unequally accessible to people positioned differently in terms of race, class and residential status, suggesting that conceptualising cosmopolitanism as either a set of skills and attitudes or an abstract philosophy of world citizenship potentially ignores the exigencies of actual, extant cosmopolitan social practices.
Gun Focus Effect Revisited
Authors: Yegiyan Narine S.
Published: March 2011

This study attempts to clarify the relationship between message emotional tone and memory vividness, specifically gun focus effect. Based on findings in neuroimaging research, it is claimed here that positive and negative messages trigger different processing mechanisms in the brain and therefore later detail retrieval is dependent on the degree to which the same processing paths are activated. Overall, data support an assumption that visual recognition aids negative arousing content detail memory more than positive. In contrast, cued recall procedure is more helpful for recalling positive detail. For central detail the matching cues work together with the arousing content to boost memory specificity. Yet for peripheral detail, the matching cues help overcome the harmful effects of arousing content by reducing forgetting. Thus visual recognition minimizes gun focus effect for negative visual content and enhances it for positive. At the same time, a cued recall task minimizes gun focus effect for positive visual content and enhances it for negative.