bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teladorsagia circumcincta resistance to moxidectin and multiple anthelmintic groups in ewes following use of the persistent drug before lambing
Authors: Sargison N. D. , Scott P. R. , Wilson D. J. , Macrae A. I. , Penny C. D.
Published: October 2010

This paper describes the nematode control strategy adopted by a Scottish hill sheep farmer. It provides an example of the limited use of anthelmintic drugs, targeted towards control of the periparturient rise in faecal nematode egg output in ewes and exploitation of grazing management, resulting in limited exposure of naive sheep to infective larvae on pasture. Resistance to benzimidazole, imidazothiazole and macrocyclic lactone anthelmintics, and to a combination of a macrocyclic lactone and imidazothiazole anthelmintic drugs was diagnosed. The targeted use of a persistent anthelmintic drug to control a periparturient rise in faecal nematode egg output in ewes may be unnecessary and selects strongly for resistance when the reservoir of anthelmintic‐susceptible nematodes in refugia is small at the time of treatment. However, the use of a persistent anthelmintic drug in a selective proportion of ewes can be important and probably does not select strongly for resistance when the reservoir of anthelmintic‐susceptible nematodes in refugia is large at the time of treatment. The former circumstances might arise on many Scottish hill sheep farms, whereas the latter may occur on upland and lowground farms, depending on previous grazing management, anthelmintic use and winter weather conditions. These factors must be taken into account when preparing sustainable health plans for nematode parasite control in individual sheep flocks.
Descriptive epidemiological features of cases of bovine spongiform encephalopathy born after July 31, 1996 in Great Britain
Authors: Wilesmith J. W. , Ryan J. B. M. , Arnold M. E. , Stevenson M. A. , Burke P. J.
Published: October 2010

This paper describes the results of analyses of the epidemiological features of the 164 cases of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in Great Britain that were born after the introduction of the reinforced legislation introduced on August 1, 1996 (BARB cases) and that were detected before December 31, 2008. This additional control measure prohibited the use of mammalian meat and bone meal (MMBM) in feed for farm animals to prevent further exposure of cattle to the BSE agent. There was a pronounced reduction in the risk of infection, by three orders of magnitude, for cattle born after July 31, 1996 compared with that for cattle born earlier, and a statistically significant exponential reduction in the estimated prevalence between successive annual birth cohorts after this date. There was no evidence that a significant number of these cases occurred as a result of a maternally associated risk factor, infection from environmental contamination (other than from feedstuffs) or as a result of a genetically based aetiology. The epidemiological features were consistent with an exogenous feedborne source as a result of a reliance on imported feedstuffs in Great Britain and the later introduction of a ban on the use of MMBM in other EU member states on January 1, 2001.
Catalysing action against rabies
Authors: Cleaveland Sarah , Costa Peter , Lembo Tiziana , Briggs Deborah
Published: October 2010

As World Rabies Day approaches, Sarah Cleaveland and colleagues at the Alliance for Rabies Control highlight the role of this annual event in stimulating interest and argue that elimination of the disease in both humans and dogs is feasible through mass dog vaccination
Location of radiological lesions of the thoracolumbar column in French trotters with and without signs of back pain
Authors: Cousty M. , Retureau C. , Tricaud C. , Geffroy O. , Caure S.
Published: October 2010

The radiographs of 102 French trotters presented with signs of back pain were reviewed retrospectively, and a control group of 16 French trotters without back pain was analysed. The age, sex, type of race, number of starts, earnings and index of performance were recorded. Radiological evaluation was performed from the 14th thoracic (T14) to the third lumbar (L3) vertebra. Impingement of the spinous processes (ISP), periarticular proliferation of synovial intervertebral articulations (PP‐SIA) and sclerosis of SIA (S‐SIA) were located and graded. Radiological lesions were identified in 10 (62 per cent) of horses in the control group and 98 (96 per cent) of horses in the clinical group. The number of affected horses, the number of radiological lesions per horse and the mean number of affected intervertebral spaces were significantly higher in the clinical group. For ISP, the number of affected horses was not significantly different between the groups, but the number of affected interspinous spaces and the grade of lesions were significantly higher in the clinical group. For PP‐SIA, the number of affected horses, the number of affected SIA and the grade of lesions were significantly higher in the clinical group. For S‐SIA, the number of affected horses and the number of affected SIA were not significantly different between the groups but the grade of lesions was significantly higher in the clinical group. In both groups, ISP was most commonly encountered between T15‐T18 and PP‐SIA and S‐SIA were most commonly encountered between T17‐L2. Radiographic lesions of the back were less severe and more localised in horses without back pain than in those with back pain.
FINE AND WILF'S THEOREM FOR PARTIAL WORDS WITH ARBITRARILY MANY WEAK PERIODS
Authors: BLANCHET-SADRI F. , OEY TAKTIN , RANKIN TIMOTHY D.
Published: October 2010

Fine and Wilf's well-known theorem states that any word having periods p,q and length at least p+q- gcd (p,q) also has gcd (p,q) as a period. Moreover, the length p+q- gcd (p,q) is critical since counterexamples can be provided for shorter words. This result has since been extended to partial words, or finite sequences that may contain some "holes." More precisely, any partial word u with H holes having weak periods p,q and length at least the so-denoted lH(p,q) also has strong period gcd (p,q) provided u is not (H,(p,q))-special. This extension was done for one hole by Berstel and Boasson (where the class of (1,(p,q))-special partial words is empty), and for an arbitrary number of holes by Blanchet-Sadri. In this paper, we further extend these results, allowing an arbitrary number of weak periods. In addition to speciality, the concepts of intractable period sets and interference between periods play a role.
BOOLEAN GRAMMARS AND GSM MAPPINGS
Authors: LEHTINEN TOMMI , OKHOTIN ALEXANDER
Published: October 2010

It is proved that the language family generated by Boolean grammars is effectively closed under injective gsm mappings and inverse gsm mappings (where gsm stands for a generalized sequential machine). The same results hold for conjunctive grammars, unambiguous Boolean grammars and unambiguous conjunctive grammars.
Liquid Crystal Addressing by Graphene Electrodes Made from Graphene Oxide
Authors: Nordendorf Gaby , Kasdorf Olga , Kitzerow Heinz-S. , Liang Yanyu , Feng Xinliang , Müllen Klaus
Published: October 2010

The electrooptic characteristics of the field-induced reorientation of a nematic liquid crystal are studied using graphene layers as transparent conductive electrodes. The covering of a large area with highly conductive graphene was achieved by the thermal reduction of a graphene oxide film. The conductivity of the graphene electrode provides electrooptic properties that are comparable to those of liquid crystal cells with two conventional indium tin oxide electrodes. This result confirms earlier studies and suggestions concerning graphene-based liquid crystal devices. It demonstrates that the fabrication of graphene layers via the deposition and subsequent reduction of graphene oxide is suitable for liquid crystal applications.
Pd–Cu–Ni Ternary Alloy Membrane with High Temperature Durability for Hydrogen Separation and Purification
Authors: Kim Dong-Won , Park Yong-Joon , Kang Seung-Min , An Hyo-Sun , Park Jong-Soo
Published: October 2010

For successful commercialization, Pd-based membranes used for hydrogen purification and separation need stable thermal durability at high temperatures. In order to meet this requirement, Pd–Cu–Ni ternary alloy hydrogen membranes with a saturated surface concentration were fabricated on a 1-in. porous nickel support using high temperature sputtering and Cu-reflow processes. These membranes had considerably enhanced thermal durability because of their thermally stable surface concentration and morphology.
Reverse Propagation of Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jets
Authors: Ito Tsuyohito , Raddenzati Aurélien , Shams Artabaze , Hamaguchi Satoshi
Published: October 2010

Bullet-like propagation of individual bright spots has been observed using photomultiplier tubes in helium atmospheric pressure plasma jets with dielectric barrier discharges. Under typical discharge conditions, such optical-emission spots in plasma jets (also known as “plasma bullets”) are known to propagate in the direction of the applied electric field. Results of this study show that similar optical-emission spots can also propagate in the reverse direction under certain conditions. The direction and velocity of such a reverse propagating “plasma bullet” are found to resemble those of the electron drift velocity.
Plasma Absorption Effects on the Momentum Transfer in Dusty Plasmas
Authors: Ki Dae-Han , Jung Young-Dae
Published: October 2010

The plasma absorption effects on the ion–dust momentum transfer process are investigated in collisional dusty plasmas. The result shows that the momentum transfer cross section decreases with an increase of the electron to ion temperature ratio. In addition, it is found that the plasma absorption effects suppress the ion–dust momentum transfer cross section. The plasma absorption effect increases with size of the dust grain, on the other hand, it decreases with an increase of the electron to ion temperature ratio.
Imprinting Bias Stress in Functional Composites
Authors: Khovaylo Vladimir , Lebedev Gor , Zakharov Dmitry , Koledov Victor , Perov Evgeniy , Shavrov Vladimir , Ohtsuka Makoto , Pushin Vladimir , Miki Hiroyuki , Takagi Toshiyuki
Published: October 2010

We propose a simple yet effective method which allows one to attain large reversible shape changes in shape memory bimetallic composites without training procedure. It is based on the conservation of strongly anisotropic martensite microstructure artificially created in the shape memory layer. This procedure results in appearance of stress field when the shape memory layer is transformed to the austenitic state which brings about two-way shape memory effect. Utilization of this method for preparation of TiNi-based composite with a thickness of 60 µm allowed us to achieve 0.9% reversible bending deformation. It is also suggested that the implementation of this method during preparation of piezoelectric or magnetostrictive composites permits to imprint bias stress and thus to improve their characteristics without use of an external load.
ArcheoTUI—Driving virtual reassemblies with tangible 3D interaction
Authors: Reuter Patrick , Riviere Guillaume , Couture Nadine , Mahut Stephanie , Espinasse Loic
Published: October 2010

ArcheoTUI is a new tangible user interface for the efficient assembly of the 3D scanned fragments of fractured archeological objects. An efficient user interaction for the complex task to orientate or position two 3D objects relative to each other is essential, eventually in addition to automatic matching techniques.

Our key idea is to use tangible props for the manipulation of the virtual fragments. In each hand, the user manipulates an electromagnetically tracked prop, and the translations and rotations are directly mapped to the corresponding virtual fragments on the display.

For each hand, a corresponding foot pedal is used to clutch the movements of the hands. Hence, the user's hands can be repositioned, or the user can be switched. The software of ArcheoTUI is designed to easily change assembly hypotheses, beyond classical undo/redo, by using a scene graph.

We designed ArcheoTUI on the demand of archeaologists and in a direct collaboration with them, and we conducted two user studies on site at their workplace. The first user study revealed that the interface, and especially the foot pedal, was accepted, and that all the users managed to solve simple assembly tasks. In a second user study, we compare a different clutching mechanism with buttons on the props to the foot pedal mechanism. This second user study revealed that the movement of the hands is more similar to real-world assembly scenarios when using the foot pedals, and that the users can keep on concentrating on the actual assembly task.

Finally, we show how the virtual assembly is used for a fractured archeological finding.
Dynamic shading enhancement for reflectance transformation imaging
Authors: Palma Gianpaolo , Corsini Massimiliano , Cignoni Paolo , Scopigno Roberto , Mudge Mark
Published: October 2010

We propose a set of dynamic shading enhancement techniques for improving the perception of details, features, and overall shape characteristics from images created with Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) techniques. Selection of these perceptual enhancement filters can significantly improve the user's ability to interactively inspect the content of 2D RTI media by zooming, panning, and changing the illumination direction. In particular, we present two groups of strategies for RTI image enhancement based on two main ideas: exploiting the unsharp masking methodology in the RTI-specific context; and locally optimizing the incident light direction for improved RTI image sharpness and illumination of surface features. The Result section will present a number of datasets and compare them with existing techniques.
Learning Deterministic Regular Expressions for the Inference of Schemas from XML Data
Authors: Bex Geert Jan , Gelade Wouter , Neven Frank , Vansummeren Stijn
Published: October 2010

Inferring an appropriate DTD or XML Schema Definition (XSD) for a given collection of XML documents essentially reduces to learning
deterministic
regular expressions from sets of positive example words. Unfortunately, there is no algorithm capable of learning the complete class of deterministic regular expressions from positive examples only, as we will show. The regular expressions occurring in practical DTDs and XSDs, however, are such that every alphabet symbol occurs only a small number of times. As such, in practice it suffices to learn the subclass of deterministic regular expressions in which each alphabet symbol occurs at most
k
times, for some small
k
. We refer to such expressions as
k
-occurrence regular expressions (
k
-OREs for short). Motivated by this observation, we provide a probabilistic algorithm that learns
k
-OREs for increasing values of k, and selects the deterministic one that best describes the sample based on a Minimum Description Length argument. The effectiveness of the method is empirically validated both on real world and synthetic data. Furthermore, the method is shown to be conservative over the simpler classes of expressions considered in previous work.
Performance of folded variance estimators for simulation
Authors: Alexopoulos Christos , Antonini Claudia , Goldsman David , Meterelliyoz Melike
Published: October 2010

We extend and analyze a new class of estimators for the variance parameter of a steady-state simulation output process. These estimators are based on “folded” versions of the standardized time series (STS) of the process, and are analogous to the area and Cramér--von Mises estimators calculated from the original STS. In fact, one can apply the folding mechanism more than once to produce an entire class of estimators, all of which reuse the same underlying data stream. We show that these folded estimators share many of the same properties as their nonfolded counterparts, with the added bonus that they are often nearly independent of the nonfolded versions. In particular, we derive the asymptotic distributional properties of the various estimators as the run length increases, as well as their bias, variance, and mean squared error. We also study linear combinations of these estimators, and we show that such combinations yield estimators with lower variance than their constituents. Finally, we consider the consequences of batching, and we see that the batched versions of the new estimators compare favorably to benchmark estimators such as the nonoverlapping batch means estimator.
A stochastic approximation method with max-norm projections and its applications to the Q-learning algorithm
Authors: Kunnumkal Sumit , Topaloglu Huseyin
Published: October 2010

In this article, we develop a stochastic approximation method to solve a monotone estimation problem and use this method to enhance the empirical performance of the Q-learning algorithm when applied to Markov decision problems with monotone value functions. We begin by considering a monotone estimation problem where we want to estimate the expectation of a random vector, η. We assume that the components of E {η} are known to be in increasing order. The stochastic approximation method that we propose is designed to exploit this information by projecting its iterates onto the set of vectors with increasing components. The novel aspect of the method is that it uses projections with respect to the max norm. We show the almost sure convergence of the stochastic approximation method. After this result, we consider the Q-learning algorithm when applied to Markov decision problems with monotone value functions. We study a variant of the Q-learning algorithm that uses projections to ensure that the value function approximation obtained at each iteration is also monotone. Computational results indicate that the performance of the Q-learning algorithm can be improved significantly by exploiting the monotonicity property of the value functions.
Finding feasible systems in the presence of constraints on multiple performance measures
Authors: Batur Demet , Kim Seong-Hee
Published: October 2010

We consider the problem of finding a set of feasible or near-feasible systems among a finite number of simulated systems in the presence of constraints on secondary performance measures. We first present a generic procedure that detects the feasibility of one system in the presence of one constraint and extend it to the case of two or more systems and constraints. To accelerate the elimination of infeasible systems, a method that reuses collected observations and its variance-updating version are discussed. Experimental results are presented to compare the performance of the proposed procedures.
A survey of customization support in agent-based business process simulation tools
Authors: Robinson William N. , Ding Yi
Published: October 2010

Agent-based business process simulation has grown in popularity, in part because of its analysis capabilities. The analyses depend on the kinds of simulations that can be built, adapted, and extended, which in turn depend on the underlying simulation framework. We report the results of our analysis of 19 agent-based process simulation tools and their simulation frameworks. We conclude that a growing number of simulation tools are using component-based software techniques. Nevertheless, most simulation tools do not directly support requirements models, their transformation into executable simulations, or the management of model variants over time. Such practices are becoming more widely applied in software engineering under the term
software product line engineering
(SPLE). Based on our analysis, agent-based process simulation tools may improve their customization capacity by: (1) supporting object modeling more completely and (2) supporting software product line engineering issues.
Effects of oral and intravenous fat load on blood pressure, endothelial function, sympathetic activity, and oxidative stress in obese healthy subjects
Authors: Gosmanov Aidar R. , Smiley Dawn D. , Robalino Gonzalo , Siquiera Joselita , Khan Bobby , Le Ngoc-Anh , Patel Riyaz S. , Quyyumi Arshed A. , Peng Limin , Kitabchi Abbas E. , Umpierrez Guillermo E.
Published: October 2010

We compared the effects of high and low oral and intravenous (iv) fat load on blood pressure (BP), endothelial function, autonomic nervous system, and oxidative stress in obese healthy subjects. Thirteen obese subjects randomly received five 8-h infusions of iv saline, 20 (32 g, low iv fat) or 40 ml/h intralipid (64 g, high iv fat), and oral fat load at 32 (low oral) or 64 g (high oral). Systolic BP increased by 14 ± 10 ( P = 0.007) and 12 ± 9 mmHg ( P = 0.007) after low and high iv lipid infusions and by 13 ± 17 ( P = 0.045) and 11 ± 11 mmHg ( P = 0.040) after low and high oral fat loads, respectively. The baseline flow-mediated dilation was 9.4%, and it decreased by 3.8 ± 2.1 ( P = 0.002) and 4.1 ± 3.1% ( P < 0.001) after low and high iv lipid infusion and by 3.8 ± 1.8 ( P = 0.002) and 5.0 ± 2.5% ( P < 0.001) after low and high oral fat load, respectively. Oral and iv fat load stimulated oxidative stress, increased heart rate, and decreased R-R interval variability. Acute iv fat load decreased blood glucose by 6–10 mg/dl ( P < 0.05) without changes in insulin concentration, whereas oral fat increased plasma insulin by 3.7–4.0 μU/ml ( P < 0.01) without glycemic variations. Intravenous saline and both oral and iv fat load reduced leptin concentration from baseline ( P < 0.01). In conclusion, acute fat load administered orally or intravenously significantly increased blood pressure, altered endothelial function, and activated sympathetic nervous system by mechanisms not likely depending on changes in leptin, glucose, and insulin levels in obese healthy subjects. Thus, fat load, independent of its source, has deleterious hemodynamic effects in obese subjects.
Characterization of LiCoO2 Nanopowders Produced by Sol‐Gel Processing
Authors: Soltanmohammad Sina , Asgari Sirous
Published: October 2010

LiCoO2 nanopowders, one of the most important cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries, were synthesized via a modified sol‐gel process assisted with triethanolamine (TEA) as a complexing agent. The influence of three different chelating agents including acrylic acid, citric acid, and oxalic acid on the size and morphology of particles was investigated. Structure and morphology of the synthesized powders were characterized by thermogravimetric/differential thermal analyses (TG/DTA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results indicate that the powder processed with TEA and calcinated at 800 ∘C had an excellent hexagonal ordering of α‐NaFeO2‐type (space group Rm). Also, the other three complexing agents had a decisive influence on the particle size, shape, morphology, and degree of agglomeration of the resulting oxides. Based on the data presented in this work, it is proposed that the optimized size and distribution of LiCoO2 powders may be achieved through sol‐gel processing using TEA as a chelating agent.
Biosynthesis and Role of N-Linked Glycosylation in Cell Surface Structures of Archaea with a Focus on Flagella and S Layers
Authors: Jarrell Ken F. , Jones Gareth M. , Nair Divya B.
Published: October 2010

The genetics and biochemistry of the N-linked glycosylation system of Archaea have been investigated over the past 5 years using flagellins and S layers as reporter proteins in the model organisms,Methanococcus voltae, Methanococcus maripaludis,andHaloferax volcanii. Structures of archaeal N-linked glycans have indicated a variety of linking sugars as well as unique sugar components. InM. voltae, M. maripaludis,andH. volcanii, a number of archaeal glycosylation genes (agl) have been identified by deletion and complementation studies. These include many of the glycosyltransferases and the oligosaccharyltransferase needed to assemble the glycans as well as some of the genes encoding enzymes required for the biosynthesis of the sugars themselves. The N-linked glycosylation system is not essential for any ofM. voltae, M. maripaludis,orH. volcanii, as demonstrated by the successful isolation of mutants carrying deletions in the oligosaccharyltransferase geneaglB(a homologue of the eukaryotic Stt3 subunit of the oligosaccharyltransferase complex). However, mutations that affect the glycan structure have serious effects on both flagellation and S layer function.
Burkitt Lymphoma: Pathogenesis and Immune Evasion
Authors: God Jason M. , Haque Azizul
Published: October 2010

B-cell lymphomas arise at distinct stages of cellular development and maturation, potentially influencing antigen (Ag) presentation and T-cell recognition. Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is a highly malignant B-cell tumor associated with Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection. Although BL can be effectively treated in adults and children, leading to high survival rates, its ability to mask itself from the immune system makes BL an intriguing disease to study. In this paper, we will provide an overview of BL and its association with EBV and thec-myconcogene. The contributions of EBV andc-mycto B-cell transformation, proliferation, or attenuation of cellular network and immune recognition or evasion will be summarized. We will also discuss the various pathways by which BL escapes immune detection by inhibiting both HLA class I- and II-mediated Ag presentation to T cells. Finally, we will provide an overview of recent developments suggesting the existence of BL-associated inhibitory molecules that may block HLA class II-mediated Ag presentation to CD4+ T cells, facilitating immune escape of BL.
Penile involvement in Systemic Sclerosis: New Diagnostic and Therapeutic Aspects
Authors: Aversa Antonio , Bruzziches Roberto , Francomano Davide , Rosato Edoardo , Salsano Felice , Spera Giovanni
Published: October 2010

Systemic Sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disorder featuring vascular alterations and an immunological activation leading to a progressive and widespread fibrosis of several organs such as the skin, lung, gastrointestinal tract, heart, and kidney. Men with SSc are at increased risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED) because of the evolution of early microvascular tissutal damage into corporeal fibrosis. The entity of penile vascular damage in SSc patients has been demonstrated by using Duplex ultrasonography and functional infra-red imaging and it is now clear that this is a true clinical entity invariably occurring irrespective of age and disease duration and constituting the ‘‘sclerodermic penis’’. Once-daily phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) inhibitors improve both sexual function and vascular measures of cavernous arteries by improving surrogate markers of endothelial dysfunction, that is, plasma endothelin-1 and adrenomedullin levels, which may play a potential role in preventing progression of penile fibrosis and ED. Also, the beneficial effect of long-term PDE5i add-on therapy to SSc therapy in the treatment of Raynaud's phenomenon is described.
Visual Performance of Tecnis ZM900 Diffractive Multifocal IOL after 2500 Implants: A 3-Year Followup
Authors: Akaishi Leonardo , Vaz Rodrigo , Vilella Graziela , Garcez Rodrigo C. , Tzelikis Patrick F.
Published: October 2010

Purpose. To evaluate visual performance for near, intermediate, and distant vision; complaints of photic phenomena, and patient satisfaction with the new diffractive multifocal IOL used in eyes which underwent phacoemulsification.Methods. Two thousand and five hundred consecutive eyes undergoing Tecnis ZM900 multifocal IOL implantation were included in this retrospective analysis. The minimum followup of 3 months was required after the surgery. Patients were assessed for uncorrected near visual acuity (UNVA) at a fixed distance (33 cm), uncorrected intermediate visual acuity (UIVA) at 60 cm, and uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA). Using a subjective questionnaire, patients satisfaction, their independence from using glasses, and the perception of glare and halo phenomena were also evaluated at the last follow-up.Results. Two thousand and five hundred eyes of 1558 patients underwent cataract surgery and Tecnis ZM900 multifocal IOL implantation. Four hundred and eighty seven patients (31.3%) were men, and 1071 (68.7%) were women. The mean age of the patients was 66.17 years. A UDVA of 20/30 or better was achieved by 85% of eyes. A UNVA of J1 was achieved by 93.7% of eyes and that of J2 or better was achieved by 98%. A UIVA of J4 or better was achieved by 65% and J5 or better was achived by more than 82.8% of the eyes in the study. Glare and halos were reported as severe by only 6.1% and 2.12% of patients, respectively. Ninety seven percent reported complete spectacle independence and 88% stated that they are totally satisfied with their quality of vision and would choose to have the same lens implanted again after the first implant. Five percent of the eyes in the study needed a second procedure (enhancement) to achieve a better visual result. No patient underwent lens exchange.Conclusion. Excellent near, intermediate, and distant vision was observed in patients implanted with the Tecnis ZM900 diffractive multifocal IOL. Spectacle independence and a minimum occurrence of photic phenomena make this IOL an excellent option in patients with cataract.
A Comparative Study of VaR Estimation for Structured Products
Authors: Chen Fen-Ying
Published: October 2010

The previous literature commonly concluded that GARCH models provide better volatility forecasts in financial markets. This paper adopts the backtesting criteria, the multivariate extension of the Diebold and Mariano (1995) test, RMSE (root mean squared errors), and MAE (mean absolute errors) to compare the performances of selected conditional heteroscedastic models for structured products in the low oil price and high oil price periods. The results illustrate that, in general, the performance of GARCH type seems to be better in the whole periods whereas it is not in the low period and the high oil price period.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells and the Origin of Ewing's Sarcoma
Authors: Lin Patrick P. , Wang Yongxing , Lozano Guillermina
Published: October 2010

The origin of Ewing's sarcoma is a subject of much debate. Once thought to be derived from primitive neuroectodermal cells, many now believe it to arise from a mesenchymal stem cell (MSC). Expression of theEWS-FLI1fusion gene in MSCs changes cell morphology to resemble Ewing's sarcoma and induces expression of neuroectodermal markers. In murine cells, transformation to sarcomas can occur. In knockdown experiments, Ewing's sarcoma cells develop characteristics of MSCs and the ability to differentiate into mesodermal lineages. However, it cannot be concluded that MSCs are the cell of origin. The concept of an MSC still needs to be rigorously defined, and there may be different subpopulations of mesenchymal pluripotential cells. Furthermore,EWS-FLI1by itself does not transform human cells, and cooperating mutations appear to be necessary. Therefore, while it is possible that Ewing's sarcoma may originate from a primitive mesenchymal cell, the idea needs to be refined further.
Combination of Temsirolimus (CCI-779) with Chemoradiation in Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) (NCCTG trial N027D) Is Associated with Increased Infectious Risks
Authors: Sarkaria Jann N. , Galanis Eva , Wu Wenting , Dietz Allan B. , Kaufmann Timothy J. , Gustafson Michael P. , Brown Paul D. , Uhm Joon H. , Rao Ravi D. , Doyle Laurence , Giannini Caterina , Jaeckle Kurt A. , Buckner Jan C.
Published: October 2010

Purpose: The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) functions within the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt signaling pathway as a critical modulator of cell survival.

Methods: The mTOR inhibitor temsirolimus (CCI-779) was combined with chemoradiotherapy in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) patients in a dose-escalation phase I trial. The first 12 patients were treated with CCI-779 combined with radiation/temozolomide and adjuvant temozolomide. A second cohort of 13 patients was treated with concurrent CCI-779/radiation/temozolomide followed by adjuvant temozolomide monotherapy.

Results: Concomitant and adjuvant CCI-779 was associated with a high rate (3 of 12 patients) of grade 4/5 infections. By limiting CCI-779 treatment to the radiation/temozolomide phase and using antibiotic prophylaxis, the rate of infections was reduced, although 2 of 13 patients developed exacerbation of pre-existing fungal or viral infections. Dose-limiting toxicities were observed in 2 of 13 patients with this modified schedule. Weekly CCI-779 (50 mg/week) combined with radiation/temozolomide is the recommended phase II dose and schedule. The immune profile of patients in the second cohort was assessed before, during, and after CCI-779 therapy. There was robust suppression of helper and cytotoxic T cells, B cells, natural killer, cells and elevation of regulatory T cells during CCI-779/radiation/temozolomide therapy with recovery to baseline levels during adjuvant temozolomide of cytotoxic T cells, natural killer cells, and regulatory T cells.

Conclusions: The increased infection rate observed with CCI-779 combined with chemoradiotherapy in GBM was reduced with antibiotic prophylaxis and by limiting the duration of CCI-779 therapy. The combined suppressive effects of CCI-779 and temozolomide therapy on discrete immune compartments likely contributed to the increased infectious risks observed. Clin Cancer Res; 16(22); 5573–80. ©2010 AACR.
Height at Start, First-Year Growth Response and Cause of Shortness at Birth Are Major Determinants of Adult Height Outcomes of Short Children Born Small for Gestational Age and Silver-Russell Syndrome Treated with Growth Hormone: Analysis of Data from KIGS
Authors: Ranke Michael B. , Lindberg Anders ,   on behalf of the KIGS International Board
Published: October 2010

Background/Aims: There is limited information about adult height (AH) outcomes and the factors influencing outcomes of growth hormone (GH) therapy in short children born small for gestational age (SGA). Methods: AH (SDS) and Δheight (SDS) from GH start to AH were analyzed in 161 SGA children who had reached AH (55 with Silver-Russell syndrome, SRS). Results: SGA patients treated to AH were started on GH (median) 0.25 mg/kg/week at an age of 7.8 years with a height of –3.8 SDS. AH after 7.7 years was –2.2 SDS and –1.1 SDS below mid-parental height (MPH). AH (SDS) was explained by: height (SDS) at GH start (+), Δheight (SDS) 1st year on GH (+), years on GH (+), maternal height (SDS) (+), length (SDS) at birth (+), and the diagnosis of SRS (–) (explained variability 70%; error 0.6 SD). Gain in height (SDS) was explained by: Δheight (SDS) 1st year on GH (+), years on GH (+), height – MPH (SDS) at GH start (–) (explained variability 60%; error 0.7 SD). Conclusions: Algorithms for AH outcomes provides useful information about the potential of long-term growth on GH in short children born SGA.
The Clinical and Molecular Heterogeneity of 17βHSD-3 Enzyme Deficiency
Authors: George Minu M. , New Maria I. , Ten Svetlana , Sultan Charles , Bhangoo Amrit
Published: October 2010

17-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 (17βHSD-3) deficiency is a rare, but frequently misdiagnosed autosomal recessive cause of 46,XY disorder of sex development (DSD). 17βHSD-3 enzyme is present almost exclusively in the testes and converts Δ4-androstenedione (Δ4) to testosterone (T). The diagnosis can be easily missed in early childhood as the clinical presentation may be subtle. Any young girl with an inguinal hernia, mild clitoromegaly, single urethral opening or urogenital sinus should raise suspicion. If not diagnosed early, patients present with severe virilization and primary amenorrhea in adolescence and may undergo a change from a female to male gender role. A low T/Δ4 ratio on baseline or hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin)-stimulated testing is suggestive of 17βHSD-3 deficiency. The diagnosis can be confirmed with molecular genetic studies. This review summarizes the clinical presentations, reported mutations, diagnosis, treatment and clinical course of this disorder. The Arg80 site in exon 3 is the most common location of repeated mutations and can be considered a hot spot in certain Arab populations.
Coronary Microcirculation Changes during Myocardial Stunning in Dogs
Authors: Luo Yi , Cha Dao-Gang , Liu Yi-Li , Zhou Shu-Feng
Published: October 2010

Objective: To investigate changes in the coronary microcirculation during myocardial stunning in dogs. Methods: Male mongrel dogs underwent a 15- or 60-min occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery, followed by a 120-min reperfusion. Myocardial contrast echocardiography was performed before and after treatment with acetylcholine (ACH) or nitroglycerin (NG). Peak videointensity (PVI) in the myocardial zone was measured, and myocardial samples were examined using transmission electron microscopy. Results: In the 15-min group, the ratio of the PVI between the stunned and intact myocardial zone (PVIR) before and after treatment with NG (NG-PVIR) or ACH (ACH-PVIR) declined markedly in the early period of reperfusion and then returned to preligation levels. In the 60-min group, NG-PVIR was reduced in the early period of reperfusion and then returned to its preligation level. A low level of ACH-PVIR lasted during the entire 120-min reperfusion. Similar changes in the ratio of the PVIR before and after treatment with NG or ACH were observed. In the 60-min group, capillary endothelial edema and widening of intercellular linking gaps were observed. Conclusions: We observed microvascular endothelial damage and endothelium-dependent dilatation impairments in stunned myocardium, and their severity and recovery rate are affected by the duration of ischemia.
Chemokine Receptor 7 Knockout Attenuates Atherosclerotic Plaque Development
Authors: Luchtefeld Maren , Grothusen Christina , Gagalick Andreas , Jagavelu Kumaravelu , Schuett Harald , Tietge Uwe J.F. , Pabst Oliver , Grote Karsten , Drexler Helmut , Förster Reinhold , Schieffer Bernhard
Published: October 2010

Background—

Atherosclerosis is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Both innate immunity and adaptive immunity contribute to atherogenesis, but the mode of interaction is poorly understood. Chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) is critically involved in the transition from innate to adaptive immune activation by coordinating the migration to and positioning of antigen-presenting dendritic cells and T cells in secondary lymphoid organs. More recently, it was shown that CCR7 is also responsible for T-cell migration into inflamed tissues and T-cell egress from these tissues via the afferent lymph. Thus, we investigated the influence of a systemic CCR7 deficiency on atherogenesis in atherosclerosis-prone low-density lipoprotein receptor (
ldlr
) knockout mice.

Methods and Results—

CCR7 deficiency resulted in reduced atherosclerotic plaque development. CCR7
−/−
T cells showed impaired entry and exit behavior from atherosclerotic lesions. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein, a key molecule for atherogenesis with antigenic features, was used to pulse dendritic cells and to expand T cells ex vivo. Adoptive transfer of C57BL/6 wild-type T cells but not
ccr7
−/−
-derived T cells primed with oxidized low-density lipoprotein–pulsed dendritic cells resulted in a reconstitution of atherogenesis in
ccr7
−/−
/
ldlr
−/−
mice.

Conclusion—

These results demonstrate that both CCR7-dependent T-cell priming in secondary lymphoid organs and CCR7-dependent recirculation of T cells between secondary lymphoid organs and inflamed tissue are crucially involved in atherosclerotic plaque development.
Management of High Blood Pressure in Blacks
Authors: Flack John M. , Sica Domenic A. , Bakris George , Brown Angela L. , Ferdinand Keith C. , Grimm Richard H. , Hall W. Dallas , Jones Wendell E. , Kountz David S. , Lea Janice P. , Nasser Samar , Nesbitt Shawna D. , Saunders Elijah , Scisney-Matlock Margaret , Jamerson Kenneth A.
Published: October 2010

Since the first International Society on Hypertension in Blacks consensus statement on the “Management of High Blood Pressure in African American” in 2003, data from additional clinical trials have become available. We reviewed hypertension and cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment guidelines, pharmacological hypertension clinical end point trials, and blood pressure–lowering trials in blacks. Selected trials without significant black representation were considered. In this update, blacks with hypertension are divided into 2 risk strata, primary prevention, where elevated blood pressure without target organ damage, preclinical cardiovascular disease, or overt cardiovascular disease for whom blood pressure consistently <135/85 mm Hg is recommended, and secondary prevention, where elevated blood pressure with target organ damage, preclinical cardiovascular disease, and/or a history of cardiovascular disease, for whom blood pressure consistently <130/80 mm Hg is recommended. If blood pressure is ≤10 mm Hg above target levels, monotherapy with a diuretic or calcium channel blocker is preferred. When blood pressure is >15/10 mm Hg above target, 2-drug therapy is recommended, with either a calcium channel blocker plus a renin-angiotensin system blocker or, alternatively, in edematous and/or volume-overload states, with a thiazide diuretic plus a renin-angiotensin system blocker. Effective multidrug therapeutic combinations through 4 drugs are described. Comprehensive lifestyle modifications should be initiated in blacks when blood pressure is ≥115/75 mm Hg. The updated International Society on Hypertension in Blacks consensus statement on hypertension management in blacks lowers the minimum target blood pressure level for the lowest-risk blacks, emphasizes effective multidrug regimens, and de-emphasizes monotherapy.
Does the South American Monsoon Influence African Rainfall?
Authors: Grimm Alice M. , Reason Chris J. C.
Published: October 2010

Teleconnections between the South American monsoon and southern African rainfall are investigated for years with Benguela Niño or Niña events in the South Atlantic. During these events, it is found that substantial rainfall anomalies also occur over South America in addition to those previously known for southern Africa. The appearance of large rainfall anomalies in the South American monsoon region prior to the onset of the Benguela Niño proper suggests that anomalous convection over South America may influence the evolution of both the SST anomalies and the African rainfall anomalies associated with Benguela Niño events. This teleconnection between South America and southern African rainfall may occur directly, via atmospheric circulation anomalies induced by convection over South America, or indirectly, via the effect of induced circulation anomalies on regional SST.

To investigate these teleconnections, a vorticity equation model, which is linearized about a realistic basic state and which includes the divergence in this state and the advection of vorticity by the divergent wind, is applied to the events. The model is forced with anomalous divergence patterns observed during the events, and the steady-state solutions show that anomalies of convection during the South American monsoon produce the main circulation anomalies observed during the Benguela Niño events and hence influence rainfall and circulation patterns over Angola and other southern African countries. An influence function analysis confirms this result, indicating that South America is the most efficient source region to produce the observed anomalies, and also shows that there is no influence of convection over Africa on the South American monsoon. Based on these linear model and observational results, it is concluded that the South American monsoon can influence the evolution of Benguela Niños and associated rainfall anomalies in southern Africa.
Using the TRIP Model to Disseminate an IT-Based Pressure Ulcer Intervention
Authors: Tschannen Dana , Talsma AkkeNeel , Gombert Jan , Mowry Jole' L.
Published: October 2010

Pressure ulcers (PUs) are among the most common harms experienced by patients in health care facilities. Despite the existence of evidence-based guidelines and protocols for PU prevention and treatment, the sustained success in reducing the development of PUs is elusive. The purpose of this article is to describe how the Translating Research Into Practice (TRIP) model was used to support implementation of a care management solution (i.e., the Daily Project) aimed at preventing PUs. Using a case study approach, the development and implementation of the Daily Project is described in relation to the TRIP model. Initial success was evidenced by a 34% reduction in PU rates and an 86% reduction in missed patient turns 3 months postimplementation of the Daily intervention. Based on our experiences, the TRIP model successfully can assist with the implementation and diffusion of a tool that addresses a complex clinical issue such as PU prevention and treatment.
Comparison of an intermittent high-intensity vs continuous low-intensity physiotherapy service over 12 months in community-dwelling people with stroke: a randomized trial
Authors: Hesse S. , Welz A. , Werner C. , Quentin B. , Wissel J.
Published: October 2010

Objective: This study compared two modes of physiotherapy service over 12 months in community-dwelling people with stroke, either following a train—wait train paradigm by providing bouts of intense physiotherapy, or a continuous less intense programme.

Design: Randomized trial.

Setting: Community-dwelling people with stroke.

Interventions: Fifty patients, first-time stroke, discharged home, following inpatient rehabilitation, allocated to two groups, A and B. Over 12 months, Group A (n = 25) received three two-month blocks of therapy at home, each block contained four 30 to 45 minute sessions per week, totalling 96 sessions. Group B (n = 25) continuously received two 30 to 45 minute sessions per week, totalling 104 sessions.

Main outcome measures: Primary Rivermead Mobility Index (0—15), secondary upper- and lower-limb motor functions, Activities of Daily Living competence, tone and number of falls.

Results: Both groups were comparable at onset, the mean age in Group A (B) was 62.4 (61.9) years. A and B patients equally improved functions over time, between group differences did not occur. The initial (terminal) Rivermead Mobility Index was 9.4 ± 2.8 (12.2 ± 2.1) in Group A, and 8.5 ± 3.5 (11.2 ± 2.7) in Group B. More Group B patients fell seriously (7 versus 1).

Conclusions: The intermittent high-intensity and continuous low-intensity therapy protocols were equally effective, the sheer intensity seems more important than the time-mode of application. The relatively young patients functionally improved in the first year after stroke, the reduced risk of serious falls in the intermittent high-intensity group should be validated.