bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroendocrine Assessment of Serotonergic, Dopaminergic, and Noradrenergic Functions in Alcohol‐Dependent Individuals
Authors: Fahlke Claudia , Berggren Ulf , Berglund Kristina J. , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Engel Jörgen A. , Balldin Jan
Published: July 2011

Background:  Alcohol dependence has been associated with reduced function of serotonin, dopamine as well as noradrenaline activities in several neuroendocrine studies. To our knowledge, there is, however, no study investigating all these 3 systems with the use of neuroendocrine methods in one and the same alcohol‐dependent individual.

Methods:  Alcohol‐dependent individuals (n = 42) and controls (n = 28) participated in the neuroendocrine test series. Central serotonergic neurotransmission was assessed by the prolactin (PRL) response to citalopram (CIT). The postsynaptic DRD2 function was measured by the growth hormone (GH) response to apomorphine (APO) and the postsynaptic α2‐adrenoceptor function by GH response to clonidine (CLON).

Results:  In the alcohol‐dependent individuals, the PRL concentrations were significantly lower at the time points 240 minutes and 300 minutes after CIT administration and mean delta PRL value was significantly reduced by 45% in comparison with controls. There were no significant differences in APO‐GH and CLON‐GH concentrations at any time points or in mean delta GH values between the groups. An impaired monoaminergic profile, including all 3 systems, was significantly more frequent in alcohol‐dependent individuals than controls (43% vs. 6% respectively).

Conclusions:  The monoaminergic dysfunction was restricted to an impairment of the serotonergic system, suggesting that this system is especially vulnerable to long‐term and excessive alcohol consumption. Moreover, impaired monoaminergic profiles, including low responses in 2 or 3 systems, were more frequently observed in alcohol‐dependent individuals than in controls. Such impaired profiles may be of clinical importance, but further studies are needed.
Rehabilitation of Older Adults with Hip Fracture: Cognitive Function and Walking Abilities
Authors: Morghen Sara , Gentile Simona , Ricci Eleonora , Guerini Fabio , Bellelli Giuseppe , Trabucchi Marco
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the association between baseline cognitive function and the achievement of walking independence and its maintenance at 1 year in a population of older adults who underwent post‐hip fracture (HF) surgery rehabilitation.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Department of rehabilitation and aged care.

PARTICIPANTS: Three hundred six older adults admitted for post‐HF surgery rehabilitation.

MEASUREMENTS: All participants aged 65 and older who were completely unable to walk on admission but able to walk before fracture were stratified according to Mini‐Mental State Examination score (0–15=moderately severe or severe cognitive impairment (CI), 16–23=mild to moderate CI, ≥24=no CI). Walking ability was defined according to the corresponding Barthel Index subitem, with walking independence at discharge being defined as a score of 12 or more out of 15. Walking ability 1 year after discharge was ascertained by telephone interviews with participants or proxies.

RESULTS: At discharge, 29.6% of participants with moderately severe or severe CI (n=24), 51.9% with mild to moderate CI (n=56) and 78.6% of participants without CI (n=92) were able to walk independently. Among those who achieved walking independence and were alive at 1 year, 12 participants with moderately severe or severe CI (57.1%), 31 with mild to moderate CI (57.7%) and 73 without CI (78.9%) were still capable of walking independently.

CONCLUSION: Although less frequently than in individuals with better cognitive function, walking independence is achievable after HF surgery rehabilitation, and can be maintained at 1 year also in those with moderately severe or severe CI.
Comparison of Prescribing Criteria to Evaluate the Appropriateness of Drug Treatment in Individuals Aged 65 and Older: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dimitrow Maarit S. , Airaksinen Marja S. A. , Kivelä Sirkka‐Liisa , Lyles Alan , Leikola Saija N. S.
Published: July 2011

Because inappropriate prescribing is prevalent in individuals aged 65 and older, various criteria to assess it have been developed. This study's aim was to systematically review articles that describe criteria for assessing inappropriate prescribing in individuals aged 65 and older and to define the circumstances of their use (explicit/implicit), origins, development processes, and content. A systematic search was conducted on MEDLINE and PubMed (1990–2010) and augmented with a manual search. Original articles written in English were included if they described the development of the criteria and were aimed at people aged 65 and older. Articles that described criteria applicable only in hospital settings, specific drugs, or a particular disease or condition were excluded. Sixteen of 535 articles met the inclusion criteria. They described 14 criteria, half originating in the United States. The English‐language restriction limited the search results. Most criteria were explicit, consensus validated, based totally or partly on Beers criteria, and focused on pharmacological appropriateness of prescribing and some were old. Drug‐ and disease‐oriented explicit criteria require regular updating and are country specific. Implicit, person‐specific criteria are universal and do not need updating, although their use requires up‐to‐date professional skills. Unlike explicit criteria, implicit criteria have been validated in people. Some of the 14 criteria were noncomprehensive, mainly because of the intended purpose. To conclude, different criteria exist for optimizing prescribing for individuals aged 65 and older. Possible deficiencies must be recognized and trade‐offs made when selecting criteria for use. In the future, more‐comprehensive and ‐timely criteria are needed.
Number of Teeth and Fatigue in Older Adults
Authors: Avlund Kirsten , Schultz‐Larsen Kirsten , Christiansen Niels , Holm‐Pedersen Poul
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVES: To examine whether tooth loss at age 70 is associated with fatigue in a nondisabled community‐dwelling population cross‐sectionally at age 70 and with onset of fatigue longitudinally at 5‐, 10‐, and 15‐year follow‐ups.

SETTING: Community‐based population in Copenhagen.

PARTICIPANTS: Five hundred seventy‐three nondisabled 70‐year‐old individuals in 1984.

MEASUREMENTS: Data from interviews and a medical and oral examination. Oral health was measured according to number of teeth (0, 1–9, 10–19, ≥20). Fatigue was measured using the Avlund Mobility‐Tiredness Scale on six mobility activities. Covariates, all measured at baseline, were sex, education, income, comorbidity, and smoking.

RESULTS: Bivariate logistic regression analyses showed significant cross‐sectional and longitudinal associations between number of teeth at age 70 and onset of fatigue at 5‐ and 10‐ but not 15‐year follow‐up. The associations between having no teeth and fatigue were attenuated when adjusted for socioeconomic position and smoking.

CONCLUSION: Tooth loss is associated with onset of fatigue in old age, but the estimates are attenuated when adjusting for socioeconomic position and smoking. Tooth loss may be an early indicator of frailty.
Does Hospice Improve Quality of Care for Persons Dying from Dementia?
Authors: Teno Joan M. , Gozalo Pedro L. , Lee Ian C. , Kuo Sylvia , Spence Carol , Connor Stephen R. , Casarett David J.
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVES: To examine the effectiveness of hospice services for persons dying from dementia from the perspective of bereaved family members.

DESIGN: Mortality follow‐back survey.

SETTING: Death certificates were drawn from five states (AL, FL, TX, MA, and MN).

PARTICIPANTS: Bereaved family members listed as the next of kin on death certificates when dementia was listed as the cause of death.

MEASUREMENTS: Ratings of the quality of end‐of‐life care, perceptions of unmet needs, and opportunities to improve end‐of‐life care. Two questions were also asked about the peacefulness of dying and quality of dying.

RESULTS: Of 538 respondents, 260 (48.3%) received hospice services. Family members of decedents who received hospice services reported fewer unmet needs and concerns with quality of care (adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=0.49, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.33–0.74) and a higher rating of the quality of care (AOR=2.0, 95% CI=1.53–2.72). They also noted better quality of dying than those without hospice services.

CONCLUSION: Bereaved family members of people with dementia who received hospice reported higher perceptions of the quality of care and quality of dying.
Increasing Walking and Bright Light Exposure to Improve Sleep in Community‐Dwelling Persons with Alzheimer's Disease: Results of a Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: McCurry Susan M. , Pike Kenneth C. , Vitiello Michael V. , Logsdon Rebecca G. , Larson Eric B. , Teri Linda
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVES: To test the effects of walking, light exposure, and a combination intervention (walking, light, and sleep education) on the sleep of persons with Alzheimer's disease (AD).

DESIGN: Randomized, controlled trial with blinded assessors.

SETTING: Independent community living.

PARTICIPANTS: One hundred thirty‐two people with AD and their in‐home caregivers.

INTERVENTIONS: Participants were randomly assigned to one of three active treatments (walking, light, combination treatment) or contact control and received three or six in‐home visits.

MEASUREMENTS: Primary outcomes were participant total wake time based on wrist actigraphy and caregiver ratings of participant sleep quality on the Sleep Disorders Inventory (SDI). Secondary sleep outcomes included additional actigraphic measurements of sleep percentage, number of awakenings, and total sleep time.

RESULTS: Participants in walking (P=.05), light (P=.04), and combination treatment (P=.01) had significantly greater improvements in total wake time at posttest (effect size 0.51–0.63) than controls but no significant improvement on the SDI. Moderate effect size improvements in actigraphic sleep percentage were also observed in active treatment participants. There were no significant differences between the active treatment groups and no group differences for any sleep outcomes at 6 months. Participants with better adherence (4 d/wk) to walking and light exposure recommendations had significantly less total wake time (P=.006) and better sleep efficiency (P=.005) at posttest than those with poorer adherence.

CONCLUSION: Walking, light exposure, and their combination are potentially effective treatments for improving sleep in community‐dwelling persons with AD, but consistent adherence to treatment recommendations is required.
Breakthrough Scanning, Supplier Knowledge Exchange, and New Product Development Performance
Authors: Cousins Paul D. , Lawson Benn , Petersen Kenneth J. , Handfield Robert B.
Published: July 2011

The ability of a firm to scan its environment for breakthrough innovations and develop new products is increasingly central to business success. However, many firms struggle to develop breakthrough innovations alone, and rely increasingly on their supply base to provide input in processing uncertain and ambiguous technological knowledge. This paper develops a theoretical framework, based in information processing theory, to investigate the effects of breakthrough search behaviors by the buyer firm on their technical proficiency, reliance on supplementary processing capacity with suppliers, and subsequent new product development and financial performance. Using data provided by 111 procurement executives from the United Kingdom, we find support for our hypotheses. Increased breakthrough scanning results in higher firm‐level technical proficiency, and also an increase in knowledge sharing with the firm's suppliers. A combination of a firm's technical capabilities and knowledge exchange with suppliers was found to result in improved new product development performance and financial performance. This study extends the supply relationship management and new product development literatures, and suggests implications for both research and practice.
The Risk for Syncope and Presyncope During Surgery in Surgeons and Nurses
Authors: RUDNICKI JERZY , ZYŚKO DOROTA , GAJEK JACEK , KULICZKOWSKI WIKTOR , ROSIŃCZUK‐TONDERYS JOANNA , ZIELIŃSKA DOMINIKA , TERPIŁOWSKI ŁUKASZ , AGRAWAL ANIL KUMAR
Published: July 2011

Background:
 Surgeons and nurses are exposed to orthostatic stress.

Aims:
 To assess the lifetime incidence of syncopal and presyncopal events during surgery in operation room staff and reveal the predicting factors.

Methods and Results:
 The study included 317 subjects (161 F, 156 M) aged 43.9 ± 9.6; 216 surgeons and 101 instrumenters. The study included filling of an anonymous questionnaire on the syncope and presyncope history.

Results:
 At least one syncopal event during operation was reported by 4.7% and presyncope by 14.8% of the studied population. All but one subject reported prodromal symptoms before syncope. In the medical history, syncope outside the operating room was reported by 11% of the studied group. Syncope and presyncope during operation was related to syncope in the medical history outside the operation room, respectively: odds ratio (OR) 20.2 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.0–70.5 and OR 10.8; CI: 5.0–23.4 and to presyncope in the medical history, respectively: OR 23.5; CI: 7.4–74.4 OR 8.9; CI: 3.6–11.2 (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:
 (1) Syncope and presyncope may occur during surgery in the staff of the operating room. (2) Syncope in the operating room is usually preceded by prodromal symptoms and has vasovagal origin. (3) Both lower then expected occurrence of syncope in the operating room staff and absence of any difference between genders in this regard indicate preselection in the process of choosing profession and specialization. (4) Syncope and presyncope outside the operating room in medical history increases the risk of syncope and presyncope inside the operation room. (PACE 2011; 34:1486–1491)
The Efficiency of 10‐Second Resting Heart Rate for the Evaluation of Short‐Term Heart Rate Variability Indices
Authors: NUSSINOVITCH UDI , ELISHKEVITZ KEREN POLITI , KAMINER KEREN , NUSSINOVITCH MOSHE , SEGEV SHLOMO , VOLOVITZ BENJAMIN , NUSSINOVITCH NAOMI
Published: July 2011

Background:
 High values of resting heart rate were found to be correlated with adverse outcomes in various patient groups. Heart rate variability (HRV) is a reliable technique in determining autonomic nervous system function. Our aim was to evaluate whether a 10‐second resting heart rate obtained from a resting electrocardiogram (ECG), could be used as a reliable evaluation of short‐term HRV.

Methods:
 Seventy‐nine healthy volunteers were included in the study. All participants underwent a 10‐second ECG, and 5‐minute HRV measurement under strict criteria.

Results:
 A significantly negative correlation was found between resting heart rate and 5‐minute max‐RR, min‐RR, standard deviation of normal RR intervals (SDNN), root mean square of successive differences of RR intervals (RMSSD), HRV triangular index, number of intervals differing by 50 milliseconds from the preceding interval (NN50), pNN50, standard deviation of the points perpendicular to the line of identity (SD1), standard deviation along the line of identity (SD2), and high frequency spectral component (HF). A significant positive correlation was found between resting heart rate and a 5‐minute low frequency spectral component (LF) and LF/HF ratio. Specifically, max‐RR and min‐RR were found to have the best correlation with resting heart rate.

Conclusions:
 Resting heart rate obtained from a 10‐second ECG can be used for crude estimation of all HRV results in healthy individuals who do not take medications, with variable efficacy depending on the measured parameter. Resting heart rate was especially efficient in predicting max‐RR and min‐RR. Further research should focus on assessing the reliability of a resting heart rate for HRV evaluation, in patients with autonomic dysfunction and high‐risk cardiac patients. (PACE 2011; 34:1498–1502)
Impact of endometriosis on in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer cycles in young women: a stage‐dependent interference
Authors: COCCIA MARIA ELISABETTA , RIZZELLO FRANCESCA , MARIANI GIULIA , BULLETTI CARLO , PALAGIANO ANTONIO , SCARSELLI GIANFRANCO
Published: July 2011

Objective. Endometriosis is a frequent indication for in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF‐ET). Its influence on IVF‐ET cycles remains controversial. We evaluated the impact of the severity of endometriosis on IVF‐ET cycles in young women. Design. Retrospective cohort study. Setting. Academic tertiary referral centre. Sample and Methods. In a retrospective cohort analysis, 164 IVF‐ET cycles in 148 women with endometriosis‐associated infertility were analyzed. Eighty cycles performed during the same period on 72 consecutive women with tubal infertility were considered as controls. All patients were younger than 35 years old. Main Outcome Measures. Response to controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH), number of oocytes retrieved, fertilization, implantation and pregnancy rate (PR). Results. Clinical PR was lower in the group with endometriosis (all stages) in comparison with the tubal factor group. Higher total gonadotropin requirements, lower response to COH and lower oocyte yield were also found in the endometriosis group. Stage‐stratified analysis showed a lower fertilization rate in stage I–II (52.6% stage I–II, 70.5% stage III–IV and 71.9% tubal factor). In stage III–IV endometriosis there was a higher cycle cancellation rate, a reduced response to COH and a lower PR compared with both the stage I–II and the tubal infertility groups (PR 9.7, 25 and 26.1%, respectively). Conclusions. Stage III–IV was strongly associated with poor IVF outcome. A decreased fertilization rate in stage I–II might be a cause of subfertility in these women, owing to a hostile environment caused by the disease.
Grand‐grand multiparity (more than 10 deliveries) does not convey a risk for osteoporosis
Authors: Turan Volkan
Published: July 2011

Objective. To examine whether multiparity is a risk factor for osteoporosis. Design. A retrospective evaluation. Population. 16 grand‐grand multiparous women and women who gave birth a maximum of three times (n= 15), aged 55–60 years. Methods. X‐ray absorptiometry was used to examine lumbar spine (L1–L4) and femoral bone mineral densities. The relation between parity and osteoporosis was investigated by separating the bone mineral density into three categories according to the score from the absorptiometry. Results. The women had a similar body mass index and post‐menopausal status, lumbar spine (L1–L4) and femoral bone mineral densities. There was no relation between multiparity and osteoporosis development in the lumbar spine (r=−0.02; p=0.992) or total femoral (r=0.20; p=0.916) regions. Conclusions. Many pregnancies and childbirths along with long total lactation times do not appear to play a role in increasing the risk of osteoporosis at a more advanced age.
Expression of MMP‐2, 9 and 13 in newly formed bone after sinus augmentation using inorganic bovine bone in human
Authors: Bassil J. , Senni K. , Changotade S. , Baroukh B. , Kassis C. , Naaman N. , Godeau G.
Published: July 2011

Bassil J, Senni K, Changotade S, Baroukh B, Kassis C, Naaman N, Godeau G. Expression of MMP‐2, 9 and 13 in newly formed bone after sinus augmentation using inorganic bovine bone in human. J Periodont Res 2011; 46: 756–762. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  The aim of the present study was to analyse the expression of MMP‐2, MMP‐9 and MMP‐13 in newly formed bone following maxillary sinus augmentation using inorganic bovine bone substitute, because these MMPs play a major role in bone remodeling and bone resorption.

Material and Methods:  Deproteinized bovine bone (Bio‐Oss®) was used to fill cavities after elevating the sinus mucosa. Twenty patients with edentulous posterior maxilla were treated with 20 sinus‐augmentation procedures using a two‐stage technique. Forty‐nine Straumann® endosseous implants were used to complete the implant‐prosthetic rehabilitation. One cylinder‐shaped bone biopsy from each patient was taken from the augmented maxillary region using trephine burs at the second stage of surgery, 8 months after grafting. A biopsy was also taken as a control from the upper molar region from six different patients who did not undergo the sinus procedure. All biopsies were subjected to biochemical analysis and staining for TRAP.

Results:  No implant losses or failures occurred. The large number of TRAP‐positive multinucleated osteoclasts in resorption lacunae indicated that the resorption was very active in all grafts, in contrast with the control group. Zymography and western blot analysis demonstrated a significantly increased expression of MMP‐2, MMP‐9 and MMP‐13 in the newly formed bone compared with controls (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:  The quantity of osteoclastic cells and the increased expression of proteolytic enzymes suggest that 8 months after grafting, inorganic bovine bone is slowly resorbing and is the site of important remodeling of the newly formed bone by means of resorption and synthesis.
Development of a Computerised Antithrombotic Risk Assessment Tool (CARAT) to optimise therapy in older persons with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Bajorek Beata V , Masood Noman , Krass Ines
Published: July 2011

Aim:  To develop and evaluate a novel Computerised Antithrombotic Risk Assessment Tool (CARAT) to aid clinicians' decision making regarding the risk–benefit of antithrombotic therapy in older patients.

Methods:  CARAT was developed in an iterative process involving multidisciplinary feedback and computerisation of previously trialled algorithms. Hospital‐based clinicians then applied the tool to patient cases, to evaluate its usability.

Results:  Overall, 94% of clinicians (n= 27 yielding 216 responses) were satisfied with CARAT's format. Most (72%) clinician responses agreed with CARAT recommendations; over two‐thirds agreed with estimates of stroke and bleeding risk. However, geriatricians were 3.5 times more likely to disagree with CARAT recommendations than cardiologists, particularly in cases of high fall risk. Overall, 63% responded that CARAT was at least ‘somewhat useful’ for clinical practice; 22% indicating it was ‘very useful’.

Conclusion:  CARAT has potential as a useful decision‐support tool to assist clinicians in decision making regarding appropriate antithrombotic therapy in older patients.
Using Existing Data to Estimate Aquifer Properties, Great Lakes Region, USA
Authors: Darner Robert A. , Sheets Rodney A.
Published: July 2011

To determine specific storage and porosity, areally limited and time‐consuming aquifer tests are frequently done. Hydrogeologic studies often do not have the resources to collect such data and rely on existing data sources for aquifer properties. An alternative tool for determining these aquifer properties is the analysis of earth tides. The objective of this study was to determine whether existing water‐level and barometric‐pressure data could be used to determine aquifer properties, such as porosity and specific storage, on a regional scale. In this study, national databases from the Great Lakes Region were queried for continuous records of groundwater‐level and barometric‐pressure data. Records from 37 selected wells were then analyzed for barometric efficiency and earth‐tide responses. Specific‐storage (Ss) and porosity values were determined, and the quality of the results were assessed with a measure of the “goodness of fit” (percent variance) of reconstruction of the response.

Records from wells completed in several aquifer systems were analyzed with varying degrees of success. Aquifer Ss values ranging from 5.9 × 10−8 to 3.8 × 10−6/m were derived, with percent variance of reconstruction ranging from 1% to 78%. Comparisons with aquifer and laboratory testing of Ss and porosity are favorable if the percent variance of reconstruction is above about 30%. Although the earth‐tide‐analysis method is not suitable for every situation, the Ss and porosity of aquifers can, in many places, be estimated with existing water‐level and barometric‐pressure data or with data that are relatively inexpensive to collect.
White Infant Mortality in Appalachian States, 1976–1980 and 1996–2000: Changing Patterns and Persistent Disparities
Authors: Yao Nengliang , Matthews Stephen A. , Hillemeier Marianne M.
Published: July 2011

Purpose: Appalachian counties have historically had elevated infant mortality rates. Changes in infant mortality disparities over time in Appalachia are not well‐understood. This study explores spatial inequalities in white infant mortality rates over time in the 13 Appalachian states, comparing counties in Appalachia with non‐Appalachian counties.

Methods: Data are analyzed for 1,100 counties in 13 Appalachian states that include 420 counties designated as Appalachian by the Appalachian Regional Commission. Area Resource File data for 1976‐1980 and 1996‐2000 provide county‐ and city‐level infant mortality rates, poverty rates, rural‐urban continuum codes, and numbers of physicians per 1,000 residents. Multiple regression analyses evaluate whether Appalachian counties are significantly associated with elevated white infant mortality in each time period, accounting for covariates.

Findings: White infant mortality rates decreased substantially in all sub‐regions over the last 2 decades; however, disparities in infant mortality did not diminish in Appalachian counties compared to non‐Appalachian counties. After accounting for poverty, rural/urban status, and health care resources, Appalachian counties were significantly associated with comparatively higher infant mortality during the late 1970s but not in the late 1990s. At the more recent time point, higher poverty rates, residence in more rural areas, and lower physician density were associated with greater infant mortality risk.

Conclusion: Appalachian counties continue to experience relatively elevated infant mortality rates. Poverty and rurality remain important dimensions of health service need in Appalachia.
Creating water robust urban environments in the Netherlands: linking spatial planning, design and asset management using a three‐step approach
Authors: van de Ven F.H.M. , Gersonius B. , de Graaf R. , Luijendijk E. , Zevenbergen C.
Published: July 2011

Changes in climate will likely have major implications for the layout of cities, buildings and residents. A three‐step approach is presented to respond to these changes. The approach is applied to steer expansion and redevelopment towards water robust urban environments through integrated planning and action at local level. The three steps are (1) vulnerability analysis, (2) selection of a strategy to reduce vulnerability and (3) selection of an appropriate set of measures. This approach leaves much freedom to parties involved in specific urban (re)development projects. Local conditions to a large extent determine what can be done. It is up to these stakeholders to select a vulnerability reduction strategy that fits local conditions and preferences. An appropriate set of measures provides a level of robustness that is acceptable for all stakeholders and that stakeholders are willing to pay for. Creating a water robust urban environment requires continuous attention of many individuals and organisations, often including the residents. The three‐step approach is to be applied three times during an urban development or rehabilitation project; during (1) the planning phase, (2) the development and design phase and (3) at the occasion of the transfer from building phase to maintenance phase.
Numerical Analysis of Heat Loss From a Parabolic Trough Absorber Tube With Active Vacuum System
Authors: Roesle Matthew , Coskun Volkan , Steinfeld Aldo
Published: July 2011

In current designs of parabolic trough collectors for concentrating solar power plants, the absorber tube is manufactured in segments that are individually insulated with glass vacuum jackets. During the lifetime of a power plant, some segments lose vacuum and thereafter suffer from significant convective heat loss. An alternative to this design is to use a vacuum pump to actively maintain low pressure in a long section of absorber with a continuous vacuum jacket. A detailed thermal model of such a configuration is needed to inform design efforts for such a receiver. This paper describes a combined conduction, convection, and radiation heat transfer model for a receiver that includes the effects of nonuniform solar flux on the absorber tube and vacuum jacket as well as detailed analysis of conduction through the rarefied gas in the annular gap inside the vacuum jacket. The model is implemented in commercial CFD software coupled to a Monte Carlo ray-tracing code. The results of simulations performed for a two-dimensional cross-section of a receiver are reported for various conditions. The parameters for the model are chosen to match the current generation of parabolic trough receivers, and the simulation results correspond well with experimental measurements.
Modeling of Fabric Impact With High Speed Imaging and Nickel-Chromium Wires Validation
Authors: Chocron Sidney , Kirchdoerfer Trenton , King Nikki , Freitas Christopher J.
Published: July 2011

Ballistic tests were performed on single-yarn, single-layer and ten-layer targets of Kevlar® KM2 (600 and 850 denier), Dyneema® SK-65 and PBO® (500 denier). The objective was to develop data for validation of numerical models so, multiple diagnostic techniques were used: (1) ultra-high speed photography, (2) high-speed video and (3) nickel-chromium wire technique. These techniques allowed thorough validation of the numerical models through five different paths. The first validation set was at the yarn level, where the transverse wave propagation obtained with analytical and numerical simulations was compared to that obtained in the experiments. The second validation path was at the single-layer level: the propagation of the pyramidal wave observed with the high speed camera was compared to the numerical simulations. The third validation consisted of comparing, for the targets with ten layers, the pyramid apex and diagonal positions from tests and simulations. The fourth validation, which is probably the most relevant, consisted of comparing the numerical and experimental ballistic limits. Finally for the fifth validation set, nickel-chromium wires were used to record electronically the waves propagating in the fabrics. It is shown that for the three materials the waves recorded during the tests match well the waves predicted by the numerical model.
An Experimental Technique to Characterize the Dynamic Response of Materials, or Material Combinations, to Explosive Blast
Authors: Mostert Frederik J. , Snyman Izak M. , Olivier Marius
Published: July 2011

An experimental technique is demonstrated whereby the dynamic deflection of a thin plate or combination of plates, impulsively loaded by the blast of an explosive charge, can be characterized. A blast pendulum measures the resulting impulse simultaneously. The technique utilizes a cylindrical adapter that is fixed onto the blast pendulum into which a helical array of laser diode and receiver pairs are fitted. The output of the receivers is electronically coupled and a cascade voltage plot is obtained as the deforming plate interrupts the aligned light beams. It is found that the technique yields good results of the dynamic motion of the plates as long as the deformation of the specimen is symmetrical.
Annual Yield Analysis of Solar Tower Power Plants With GREENIUS
Authors: Dersch Jürgen , Schwarzbözl Peter , Richert Timo
Published: July 2011

An existing software tool for annual performance calculation of concentrating solar power and other renewable energy plants has been extended to enable the simulation of solar tower power plants. The methodology used is shown and a demonstrative example of a 50 MWe tower plant in southern Spain is given. The influence of design power and latitude on solar field layout is discussed. Furthermore, a comparison of the tower plant with a 50 MWe parabolic trough and a Linear Fresnel plant at the same site is given.
Hydrogen effects in hydrofluorocarbon plasma etching of silicon nitride: Beam study with CF+, CF2+, CHF2+, and CH2F+ ions
Authors: Ito Tomoko , Karahashi Kazuhiro , Fukasawa Masanaga , Tatsumi Tetsuya , Hamaguchi Satoshi
Published: July 2011

Hydrogen in hydrofluorocarbon plasmas plays an important role in silicon nitride (Si3N4) reactive ion etching. This study focuses on the elementary reactions of energetic CHF2+ and CH2F+ ions with Si3N4 surfaces. In the experiments, Si3N4 surfaces were irradiated by monoenergetic (500–1500 eV) beams of CHF2+ and CH2F+ ions as well as hydrogen-free CF2+ and CF+ ions generated by a mass-selected ion beam system and their etching yields and surface properties were examined. It has been found that, when etching takes place, the etching rates of Si3N4 by hydrofluorocarbon ions, i.e., CHF2+ and CH2F+, are higher than those by the corresponding fluorocarbon ions, i.e., CF2+ and CF+, respectively. When carbon film deposition takes place, it has been found that hydrogen of incident hydrofluorocarbon ions tends to scavenge fluorine of the deposited film, reducing its fluorine content.
Promoting Convergence in Biomedical Science
Authors: Sharp Phillip A. , Langer Robert
Published: July 2011

Multidisciplinary thinking and analysis will permit the emergence of new scientific principles and opportunities.
Impaired Respiratory and Body Temperature Control Upon Acute Serotonergic Neuron Inhibition
Authors: Ray Russell S. , Corcoran Andrea E. , Brust Rachael D. , Kim Jun Chul , Richerson George B. , Nattie Eugene , Dymecki Susan M.
Published: July 2011

Inducible neuron inhibition reveals essential roles for serotonergic neurons in respiratory and body temperature homeostasis.
A Single Molecule of Water Encapsulated in Fullerene C
60
Authors: Kurotobi Kei , Murata Yasujiro
Published: July 2011

An open-cage derivative of C
60
was filled with one water molecule and then restored to its original closed framework.
India’s Demographic Change: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: James K. S.
Published: July 2011

This paper discusses emerging demographic patterns and its opportunities and challenges for India. It investigates the specificities in the demographic transition in terms of various demographic parameters and the lack of homogeneity in the transition across states in the country. It presents some opportunities that can arise from having demographic changes, particularly the demographic dividend and interstate migration to overcome labor shortage in some parts. At the same time, there are serious challenges in the form of enhancing human capital development, addressing the issue of skewed sex ratio, and the possible rise in social and political unrest and conflict.
History Strikes Back
The Origins of Political Order
From Prehuman Times to the French Revolution

by Francis Fukuyama

Farrar, Straus and Giroux, New York, 2011. 601 pp. $35. ISBN 9780374227340.
Authors: Robinson James A.
Published: July 2011

In this synthesis, Fukuyama draws on history, archaeology, economics, and evolutionary biology to explain the course from the emergence of tribal societies to the development of political accountability in 18th-century Europe.
The Mutational Landscape of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Stransky Nicolas , Egloff Ann Marie , Tward Aaron D. , Kostic Aleksandar D. , Cibulskis Kristian , Sivachenko Andrey , Kryukov Gregory V. , Lawrence Michael S. , Sougnez Carrie , McKenna Aaron , Shefler Erica , Ramos Alex H. , Stojanov Petar , Carter Scott L. , Voet Douglas , Cortés Maria L. , Auclair Daniel , Berger Michael F. , Saksena Gordon , Guiducci Candace , Onofrio Robert C. , Parkin Melissa , Romkes Marjorie , Weissfeld Joel L. , Seethala Raja R. , Wang Lin , Rangel-Escareño Claudia , Fernandez-Lopez Juan Carlos , Hidalgo-Miranda Alfredo , Melendez-Zajgla Jorge , Winckler Wendy , Ardlie Kristin , Gabriel Stacey B. , Meyerson Matthew , Lander Eric S. , Getz Gad , Golub Todd R. , Garraway Levi A. , Grandis Jennifer R.
Published: July 2011

The mutational profile of head and neck cancer is complex and may pose challenges to the development of targeted therapies.
The Outlook for Population Growth
Authors: Lee Ronald
Published: July 2011

Projections of population size, growth rates, and age distribution, although extending to distant horizons, shape policies today for the economy, environment, and government programs such as public pensions and health care. The projections can lead to costly policy adjustments, which in turn can cause political and economic turmoil. The United Nations projects global population to grow from about 7 billion today to 9.3 billion in 2050 and 10.1 billion in 2100, while the Old Age Dependency Ratio doubles by 2050 and triples by 2100. How are such population projections made, and how certain can we be about the trends they foresee?
Cities, Productivity, and Quality of Life
Authors: Glaeser Edward
Published: July 2011

Technological changes and improved electronic communications seem, paradoxically, to be making cities more, rather than less, important. There is a strong correlation between urbanization and economic development across countries, and within-country evidence suggests that productivity rises in dense agglomerations. But urban economic advantages are often offset by the perennial urban curses of crime, congestion and contagious disease. The past history of the developed world suggests that these problems require more capable governments that use a combination of economic and engineering solutions. Though the scope of urban challenges can make remaining rural seem attractive, agrarian poverty has typically also been quite costly.
A Darwinian Approach
Adapt
Why Success Always Starts with Failure

by Tim Harford

Farrar, Straus and Giroux, New York, 2011. 320 pp. $27. ISBN 9780374100964.
Authors: Rankin Daniel J.
Published: July 2011

Harford presents examples from economics, behavior, and evolutionary biology to argue for the crucial roles that trial-and-error approaches and failures play in adapting to our complex world.
H
2
O in a Desert of Carbon Atoms
Authors: Balch Alan L.
Published: July 2011

A chemical process has been developed to trap a single water molecule within a cage of carbon atoms.
Population and Development
Authors: Osotimehin Babatunde
Published: July 2011

As the world's population reaches 7 billion this year, we should reflect on the many ways in which population dynamics matter to the planet's future. Population growth patterns are linked to nearly every challenge confronting humanity, including poverty reduction, urban pollution, energy production, food and water scarcity, and health. With world population projected to surpass 9 billion by 2050, these issues and the desire to raise living standards at the same time will create a huge challenge. What immediate actions can be taken to deal with growth while ensuring a sustainable future for all of the world's inhabitants?
One Year On, LHC Sees Hints Of Higgs—And Nothing Else
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: July 2011

Experimenters working with Europe's Large Hadron Collider may be closing in on the elusive Higgs boson, but they have seen no signs of new particles beyond those in the standard model.
Healing the Brain, Healing the Mind
Authors: Miller Greg
Published: July 2011

At a new clinic for troops, doctors tackle a complex interplay between head injuries and posttraumatic stress.
Predicting the Psychological Risks of War
Authors: Miller Greg
Published: July 2011

Can predeployment tests identify—and possibly help—the soldiers most susceptible to posttraumatic stress disorder and depression?
The Upside of Downsizing
Authors: Normile Dennis
Published: July 2011

Increasing numbers of countries are facing population shrinkage, and that could be good for both humanity and the planet.
How to Engineer a Baby Boom
Authors: Hvistendahl Mara
Published: July 2011

East Asia's "tigers" are striving to boost falling birth rates. But will their pronatalist policies work?
Young and Restless Can Be a Volatile Mix
Authors: Hvistendahl Mara
Published: July 2011

A new theory proposes that swelling groups of young people, or "youth bulges," lead to conflict
Novel Epitopic Region of Glucosyltransferase B from Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Hoshino Tomonori , Kondo Yoshio , Saito Kan , Terao Yutaka , Okahashi Nobuo , Kawabata Shigetada , Fujiwara Taku
Published: July 2011

In the development of a component vaccine against caries, the catalytic region (CAT) and glucan-binding domain (GBD) of glucosyltransferase B (GtfB) fromStreptococcus mutanshave been employed as target antigens. These regions were adopted as primary targets because they theoretically include epitopes associated with enzyme function. However, their antigenicities have not been fully evaluated. Although there are many reports about successful vaccination using these components, the principle has not yet been put to practical use. For these reasons, we came to doubt the effectiveness of the epitopes in vaccine production and reevaluated the antigenic region of GtfB by usingin silicoanalyses combined within vitroandin vivoexperiments. The results suggested that the ca. 360-amino-acid variable region (VR) in the N terminus of GtfB is more reactive than CAT and GBD. This region isS. mutansand/or GtfB specific, nonconserved among other streptococcal Gtfs, and of unknown function. Immunization using an adenovirus vector-borne DNA vaccine confirmed that VR is an epitope that shows promise for the development of a caries vaccine.
Evaluation of the Bio-Rad BioPlex Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella-Zoster Virus IgG Multiplex Bead Immunoassay
Authors: Binnicker Matthew J. , Jespersen Deborah J. , Rollins Leonard O.
Published: July 2011

The goal of this study was to compare the BioPlex 2200 measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella-zoster virus (MMRV) IgG multiplex assays (Bio-Rad Laboratories, Hercules, CA) to routine testing by enzyme immunoassay (EIA). Serum specimens (n= 500) submitted to our reference laboratory for routine MMRV IgG testing by EIA were also tested by the BioPlex assays. Following testing, the BioPlex measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella-zoster virus assays demonstrated agreements of 91.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 88.8% to 93.7%), 94.2% (95% CI, 91.7% to 95.7%), 94.4% (95% CI, 92.0% to 96.1%), and 91.8% (95% CI, 89.0% to 93.9%), respectively, compared to the results of EIA. Timing studies showed that the BioPlex MMRV assay could provide complete analysis of 100 serum specimens in 1.7 h, compared to 5.5 h by EIA. These data indicate that the BioPlex MMRV IgG assays exhibit comparable performance (93% overall agreement [1,860/2,000 results]; κ = 0.67) to routine testing by EIA. The BioPlex assays allow for the simultaneous detection of all four analytes, thereby eliminating potential aliquot errors and reducing turnaround time.
Using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry To Detect Carbapenem Resistance within 1 to 2.5 Hours
Authors: Burckhardt Irene , Zimmermann Stefan
Published: July 2011

In recent years, the percentage of carbapenem-resistant bacteria has increased at an alarming pace and become a major threat for patient survival. Carbapenemase-induced carbapenem resistance can be confirmed through the detection of carbapenem degradation using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). This method works for strains carrying NDM-1, VIM-1, VIM-2, KPC-2, and different IMP enzymes.
Assessment of Two New Molecular Methods for Identification of Candida parapsilosis Sensu Lato Species
Authors: Garcia-Effron Guillermo , Canton Emilia , Pemán Javier , Dilger Amanda , Romá Eva , Perlin David S.
Published: July 2011

Candida parapsilosis
sensu stricto,
C. orthopsilosis
, and
C. metapsilosis
replaced
C. parapsilosis
groups I, II, and III in 2005. Since then, an increased interest in studying their epidemiology has arisen based on the observed differences in antifungal susceptibilities and virulence the three species. A strict differentiation of these species cannot be achieved by phenotypic methods. We evaluate two new molecular methodologies to differentiate among these species by the use of a collection of 293 bloodstream infection isolates of
C. parapsilosis
sensu lato. For the first method, the isolates were studied using PCR amplification of a fragment of the
C. parapsilosis
sensu lato
FKS1
gene and a universal primer pair followed by EcoRI enzyme digestion. The other method used the allele discrimination ability of molecular beacons in a multiplex real-time PCR format. Both methods of identification showed 100% concordance with internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1)/ITS2 sequencing and proved to be effective for clinical applications, even with mixed-species DNAs.
Sensitivity and Specificity of Immunocytochemical Staining of Mycobacterial Antigens in the Cytoplasm of Cerebrospinal Fluid Macrophages for Diagnosing Tuberculous Meningitis
Authors: Shao YuQuan , Xia Ping , Zhu Tao , Zhou Jiong , Yuan Yuan , Zhang Hao , Chen JianJun , Hu XingYue
Published: July 2011

The sensitivity and specificity of immunocytochemical staining of mycobacterial antigens in the cytoplasm of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) macrophages for diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) was prospectively compared with Ahuja criteria from 393 consecutive CSF specimens. The assay can play an important role for the diagnosis of TBM, with sensitivity of 73.5% and specificity of 90.7%.
Galectin-1 Binds to Influenza Virus and Ameliorates Influenza Virus Pathogenesis
Authors: Yang Mei-Lin , Chen Yu-Hung , Wang Shainn-Wei , Huang Yen-Jang , Leu Chia-Hsing , Yeh Nai-Chi , Chu Chun-Yen , Lin Chia-Cheng , Shieh Gia-Shing , Chen Yuh-Ling , Wang Jen-Ren , Wang Ching-Ho , Wu Chao-Liang , Shiau Ai-Li
Published: July 2011

Innate immune response is important for viral clearance during influenza virus infection. Galectin-1, which belongs to S-type lectins, contains a conserved carbohydrate recognition domain that recognizes galactose-containing oligosaccharides. Since the envelope proteins of influenza virus are highly glycosylated, we studied the role of galectin-1 in influenza virus infection
in vitro
and in mice. We found that galectin-1 was upregulated in the lungs of mice during influenza virus infection. There was a positive correlation between galectin-1 levels and viral loads during the acute phase of viral infection. Cells treated with recombinant human galectin-1 generated lower viral yields after influenza virus infection. Galectin-1 could directly bind to the envelope glycoproteins of influenza A/WSN/33 virus and inhibit its hemagglutination activity and infectivity. It also bound to different subtypes of influenza A virus with micromolar dissociation constant (

K
d

) values and protected cells against influenza virus-induced cell death. We used nanoparticle, surface plasmon resonance analysis and transmission electron microscopy to further demonstrate the direct binding of galectin-1 to influenza virus. More importantly, we show for the first time that intranasal treatment of galectin-1 could enhance survival of mice against lethal challenge with influenza virus by reducing viral load, inflammation, and apoptosis in the lung. Furthermore, galectin-1 knockout mice were more susceptible to influenza virus infection than wild-type mice. Collectively, our results indicate that galectin-1 has anti-influenza virus activity by binding to viral surface and inhibiting its infectivity. Thus, galectin-1 may be further explored as a novel therapeutic agent for influenza.