bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparisons of Urodynamic Findings and Voiding Habits in Patients with Concomitant Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Detrusor Overactivity Presenting with or without the Symptom of Urgency
Authors: Tong Yat-Ching
Published: March 2007

Aims: The urodynamic findings and voiding habits in patients with concomitant clinical benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and detrusor overactivity (DO) presenting with or without the symptom of urgency were compared. Materials and Methods: 84 BPH patients with an urodynamic diagnosis of DO by conventional cystometry were included in the study. The patients were grouped according to the presence or absence of the symptom of urgency. The urodynamic findings, urinary diary and clinical information were analyzed. Results: Among the 84 BPH-DO patients, 52 reported the symptom of urgency while 32 did not. There were no significant differences in mean age, International Prostate Symptom Score and flow rate between the two groups. Patients without urgency had a higher incidence of terminal DO and abnormal bladder sensation. The occurrence of unfelt phasic DO was also significantly higher in this group. Sphincter electromyography showed conscious and subconscious sphincter contractions associated with DO. The urinary diary showed lower 24-hour urinary output, smaller bladder functional capacity and average voided volume in the BPH-DO patients without urgency. Conclusions: BPH patients with DO may neglect the symptom of urgency due to abnormal bladder sensation, or negate the symptom by subconscious sphincter contraction to abort the overactivity. Some may avoid the symptom by drinking less fluid and emptying the bladder at a smaller volume.
Healing of the Urethral Plate after Deep Incision: Does Catheterization Change the Course of This Process?
Authors: Horasanli Kaya , Perk Cem , Yesildere Tahsin , Gumus Eyup , Miroglu Cengiz
Published: March 2007

Background: We aimed to evaluate the sequence of healing process as well as possible effects of stent placement on the healing process after deep urethral plate incision. Methods: A deep urethral plate incision was done at the 12 o’clock position. After that, in the first group (n = 14) the anterior urethra was stented with a silicon catheter. Animals in the second group (n = 14) underwent the same incision procedure, however no stent was placed after this operation. All animals in both groups were again divided into three groups with respect to the follow-up period (7–14 and 21 days). Partial penectomy was performed in all subgroups and histopathologic evaluation performed. Results: In the first group after 7 days, limited neovascularization and granulation tissue formation could be noted far away from the epithelial lumen. Evaluation of these specimens during the long-term follow-up (21 days) demonstrated an almost completely healed tissue with a remarkable neovascularization and well-developed granulation tissue. In the second group during 14–21 days, evaluation progression of tissue healing along with increasing vessel formation and re-epithelialization were demonstrated. Although the incision edges did show evident approximation, no sign of fibrosis could be demonstrated in these specimens. Conclusion: We may say that tissue healing with a desired and complete re-epithelialization could be achieved without inserting a catheter. Prevention of re-approximation along with the limited urinary extravasations to the subepithelial area might be responsible for tissue protection that will limit the long-term aforementioned adverse effects of the procedure.
The Novel mTOR Inhibitor RAD001 (Everolimus) Induces Antiproliferative Effects in Human Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor Cells
Authors: Zitzmann Kathrin , De Toni Enrico N. , Brand Stephan , Göke Burkhard , Meinecke Jennifer , Spöttl Gerald , Meyer Heinrich H.D. , Auernhammer Christoph J.
Published: March 2007

Background/Aim: Tumors exhibiting constitutively activated PI(3)K/Akt/mTOR signaling are hypersensitive to mTOR inhibitors such as RAD001 (everolimus) which is presently being investigated in clinical phase II trials in various tumor entities, including neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). However, no preclinical data about the effects of RAD001 on NET cells have been published. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of RAD001 on BON cells, a human pancreatic NET cell line that exhibits constitutively activated PI(3)K/Akt/mTOR signaling. Methods: BON cells were treated with different concentrations of RAD001 to analyze its effect on cell growth using proliferation assays. Apoptosis was examined by Western blot analysis of caspase-3/PARP cleavage and by FACS analysis of DNA fragmentation. Results: RAD001 potently inhibited BON cell growth in a dose-dependent manner which was dependent on the serum concentration in the medium. RAD001-induced growth inhibition involved G0/G1-phase arrest as well as induction of apoptosis. Conclusion: In summary, our data demonstrate antiproliferative and apoptotic effects of RAD001 in NET cells in vitro supporting its clinical use in current phase II trials in NET patients.
Risk of Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Neonate in Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome
Authors: Delsing Bas , Lopriore Enrico , Blom Nico , Te Pas Arjan B. , Vandenbussche Frank P. , Walther Frans J.
Published: March 2007

Background: Chronic twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is a complication of monochorionic twin gestations and is associated with high perinatal mortality and increased neurological, cardiovascular and renal morbidity. Objective: To report the risk of severe persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) in TTTS and discuss the possible association between severe PPHN and TTTS. Methods: All cases of monochorionic twins with severe PPHN at birth admitted to our nursery between June 2002 and July 2006 were reviewed retrospectively. We compared the incidence of severe PPHN in monochorionic twins with and without TTTS. Severe PPHN was diagnosed according to clinical and ultrasound criteria when an infant with a structurally normal heart had (1) severe hypoxemia and (2) evidence of a right-to-left shunt on persistent ductus arteriosus or foramen ovale, requiring treatment with inhaled nitric oxide (iNO). Results: In a consecutive series of 73 twin pregnancies with TTTS, 4 of the 135 live-born twins (3%) were affected by severe PPHN. All reacted promptly to treatment with iNO. The incidence of severe PPHN in monochorionic twins without TTTS was 0% (0/161). Conclusion: In view of the severe clinical course in PPHN and need for adequate and prompt treatment with iNO, perinatologists should be aware of the increased risk of severe PPHN in TTTS.
Small Poly-L-Lysines Improve Cationic Lipid-Mediated Gene Transfer in Vascular Cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Golda Adam , Pelisek Jaroslav , Klocke Rainer , Engelmann Markus G. , Rolland Pierre-Henri , Mekkaoui Choukri , Nikol Sigrid
Published: March 2007

The potential of two small poly-L-lysines (sPLLs), low molecular weight sPLL (LMW-L) containing 7–30 lysine residues and L18 with 18 lysine repeats, to enhance the efficiency of liposome-mediated gene transfer (GT) with cationic lipid DOCSPER [1,3-dioleoyloxy-2-(N5-carbamoyl-spermine)-propane] in vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) was investigated. Dynamic light scattering was used for determination of particle size. Confocal microscopy was applied for colocalization studies of sPLLs and plasmid DNA inside cells. GT was performed in proliferating and quiescent primary porcine SMCs in vitro and in vivo in porcine femoral arteries. At low ionic strength, sPLLs formed small complexes with DNA (50–100 nm). At high ionic strength, large complexes (>1 µm) were observed without any significant differences in particle size between lipoplexes (DOCSPER/DNA) and lipopolyplexes (DOCSPER/sPLL/DNA). Both sPLLs were colocalized with DNA inside cells 24 h after transfection, protecting DNA against degradation. DOCSPER/sPLL/DNA formulations enhanced GT in vitro up to 5-fold, in a porcine model using local periadventitial application up to 1.5-fold. Both sPLLs significantly increased liposome-mediated GT. Poly-L-lysine L18 was superior to LMW-L since it enabled maximal GT at a 10-fold lower concentration. Thus, sPLLs may serve as enhancers for GT applications in SMCs in vitro and in vivo using local delivery.
Subtle Attentional Deficits in the Absence of Dementia Are Associated with an Increased Risk of Post-Operative Delirium
Authors: Lowery David P. , Wesnes Keith , Ballard Clive G.
Published: March 2007

Background: Previously, key studies of the risk profile for post-surgical delirium have focused on general medical and non-elective patients, few have examined elective cohorts. Accurate prediction is imperative for clinical trials and prevention strategies. Aims/Hypothesis: Our hypothesis was that subtle pre-operative impairments of attention will be associated with risk of post-operative delirium. Method: A prospective study evaluating pre- and post-operative neuropsychological performance in older (≧70) consecutive elective admissions for orthopaedic surgery, and free of dementia (n = 100) was initiated in a general medical hospital. Results: Pre-operative attentional deficits were closely associated with delirium. Patients who developed post-surgical delirium had significantly slower mean reaction times (p ≤ 0.011) and greater variability of reaction time (p = 0.017). A 4- to 5-fold increased risk of delirium was observed for people one standard deviation above the sample means on these variables. Conclusions: The present study describes a measurement of attentional performance which could form the basis of a neuropsychological marker of delirium.
Adverse Drug Events in Cognitively Impaired Elderly Patients
Authors: Ganjavi Hooman , Herrmann Nathan , Rochon Paula A. , Sharma Papita , Lee Monica , Cassel Daniel , Freedman Morris , Black Sandra E. , Lanctôt Krista L.
Published: March 2007

Background/Aims: Adverse drug events (ADEs) are a frequent problem encountered in the elderly. The aim of this study was to elucidate the factors that influence ADEs in an elderly population with cognitive impairment. Methods: 242 patients were recruited from dementia clinics and assessed after 6 months for ADEs. The use of natural health products (NHPs) was also documented. Results: Backward logistic regression found that higher age (OR = 1.06; 95% CI 1.01–1.12), and greater cognitive impairment (OR = 0.94; 95% CI 0.90–0.98) were associated with an increased risk of developing an ADE while the use of NHPs (OR = 0.32; 95% CI 0.13–0.79) was associated with a decreased risk (χ2 = 27.6, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Risk of ADEs increased with greater age and cognitive impairment but decreased with the use of NHPs.
Cognitive Predictors of Improvements in Adults’ Spoken Word Recognition Six Months after Cochlear Implant Activation
Authors: Heydebrand Gitry , Hale Sandra , Potts Lisa , Gotter Brenda , Skinner Margaret
Published: March 2007

This study investigated whether cognitive measures obtained prior to cochlear implant surgery activation could predict improvements in spoken word recognition in adult cochlear implant recipients 6 months after activation. In addition to noncognitive factors identified by previous studies (i.e. younger age, shorter duration of hearing loss), the present results indicated that improvement in spoken word recognition was associated with higher verbal learning scores and better verbal working memory. Contrary to expectation, neither general cognitive ability nor processing speed was significantly correlated with outcome at 6 months. Multiple regression analyses revealed that a combination of verbal learning scores and lip-reading skill accounted for nearly 72% of the individual differences in improvement in spoken word recognition (i.e. the variance in spoken word recognition scores at 6 months that remained unexplained after controlling for baseline spoken word recognition scores). These findings have relevance for research on auditory processing with cochlear implants as well as implications for clinical interventions.
Different Profiles of IL-10+IFN-γ–IL-4–CD4+ T Cells in the Peripheral Blood in Atopic and Non-Atopic Asthmatics
Authors: Matsumoto K. , Inoue H. , Tsuda M. , Nakano T. , Komori M. , Fukuyama S. , Nakanishi Y.
Published: March 2007

Background: The impaired production of interleukin (IL) 10 from regulatory T cells has been proposed as a causal mechanism of asthma. Although IL-10-producing (IL-10+) T cells are detectable in the peripheral blood, their significance in the pathophysiology of asthma remains uncertain. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the profile of circulating IL-10+CD4+ T cells in atopic and non-atopic asthma. Methods: Atopic and non-atopic asthmatics were divided into a mild and severe group. Their peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were stimulated with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies and then processed for triple cytokine flow cytometry directed to IL-10, interferon (IFN) γ and IL-4. Results: IL-10+CD4+ cells were exclusively detected in the IFN-γ–IL-4– population. In atopic asthma, the frequency of IL-10+IFN-γ–IL-4–CD4+ cells in the severe group was significantly lower than that in the mild group. The frequency of IL-10+IFN-γ–IL-4–CD4+ cells in the severe group was not significantly different from that in the mild group of those with non-atopic asthma. The frequency of IL-4+IFN-γ–IL-10–CD4+ cells (Th2) was significantly higher in the group with mild atopic asthma than in that with mild non-atopic asthma. IFN-γ+IL-4–IL-10–CD4+ cells (Th1) did not differ between groups, irrespective whether the subjects suffered from atopic or non-atopic asthma. Conclusions: IL-10+CD4+ cells in PBMCs may be distinct from Th1 or Th2 and likely have the profile of regulatory T cells. The differential association of IL-10+IFN-γ–IL-4–CD4+ cells with clinical severity between atopic and non-atopic asthma implies that its pathophysiological significance may differ among asthma phenotypes.
Creation of a Biological Pacemaker by Cell Fusion
Authors: Cho Hee Cheol , Kashiwakura Yuji , Marbán Eduardo
Published: March 2007

As an alternative to electronic pacemakers, we explored the feasibility of converting ventricular myocytes into pacemakers by somatic cell fusion. The idea is to create chemically induced fusion between myocytes and syngeneic fibroblasts engineered to express HCN1 pacemaker channels (HCN1-fibroblasts). HCN1-fibroblasts were fused with freshly isolated guinea pig ventricular myocytes using polyethylene-glycol 1500. In vivo fused myocyte-HCN1-fibroblast cells exhibited spontaneously oscillating action potentials; the firing frequency increased with β-adrenergic stimulation. The heterokaryons created ectopic ventricular pacemaker activity in vivo at the site of cell injection. Coculture of nonfused HCN1-fibroblasts and myocytes without polyethylene-glycol 1500 revealed no evidence of dye transfer, demonstrating that the
I
f
-mediated pacemaker activity arises from heterokaryons rather than electrotonic coupling. This nonviral, non-stem cell approach enables autologous, adult somatic cell therapy to create biopacemakers.
Peripheral Inflammation Exacerbates Damage After Global Ischemia Independently of Temperature and Acute Brain Inflammation
Authors: Spencer Sarah J. , Mouihate Abdeslam , Pittman Quentin J.
Published: March 2007

Background and Purpose—

Concomitant infection can exacerbate damage caused by cerebral ischemia. However, the interaction between and relative importance of the febrile and inflammatory components of the immune response is still unknown.

Methods—

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to a 2-vessel occlusion with hypotension, immediately followed by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide or pyrogen-free saline.

Results—

Inflammation immediately after 2-vessel occlusion exacerbated hippocampal cell loss at 3 days and enhanced anxiety-related behaviors in the elevated plus maze and open field. These effects were not associated with differences in body temperature changes or with hippocampal pro-inflammatory cytokine production or hippocampal microglial activation.

Conclusion—

We show a previously undocumented dissociation between lipopolysaccharide-exacerbated damage after global ischemia in the rat and the temperature and acute brain immune response, indicating that the mechanism for enhanced lipopolysaccharide damage is hippocampal cytokine and temperature independent in this case.
Serum Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein Is Related to Focal Brain Injury and Outcome After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Nylén Karin , Csajbok Ludwig Z. , Öst Martin , Rashid Anas , Blennow Kaj , Nellgård Bengt , Rosengren Lars
Published: March 2007

Background and Purpose—

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) stands out from other subtypes of stroke because of the high early mortality and the risk of complications. Serum glial fibrillary acidic protein (s-GFAP) concentrations are increased after stroke. The aim of this study was to investigate whether s-GFAP could be used as a marker of brain damage and outcome after aSAH.

Methods—

Serum samples were obtained on a regular basis from 116 adults during a 2-week period after aSAH and analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The World Federation of Neurological Surgeons scale was used for neurological evaluation. Outcome was assessed after 1 year and categorized according to the Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale.

Results—

Increased s-GFAP levels were seen in 81 of the 116 patients. Maximum s-GFAP correlated with World Federation of Neurological Surgeons scale on arrival and on days 10 to 15 (
r
=0.37,
P
<0.001 and
r
=0.47,
P
<0.001, respectively). Furthermore, maximum s-GFAP levels were increased in the patient group with radiological signs of focal lesions acute or at 1 year, compared with the group without focal lesions (
P
<0.001 in both comparisons). Patients with secondary events (re-bleeding or ischemia) reached maximum levels later in the series and both maximum and final s-GFAP levels increased compared with the levels in patients without secondary events (
P
<0.001 in all 3 comparisons). Finally, maximum s-GFAP correlated with outcome (
r
=−0.48,
P
<0.001) and s-GFAP was an independent predictor of dichotomized outcome.

Conclusions—

s-GFAP provides information about brain injury severity and outcome after aSAH, which can be useful as a complement to clinical data.
Src Kinase Inhibition Improves Acute Outcomes After Experimental Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Ardizzone Timothy D. , Zhan Xinhua , Ander Brad P. , Sharp Frank R.
Published: March 2007

Background and Purpose—

The mechanisms by which intracerebral hemorrhages produce changes of blood flow and metabolism, cell death, and behavioral abnormalities are complex. In this study, we begin to test the hypothesis that intracerebral hemorrhage activates Src kinases that phosphorylate other molecules to produce cell injury and behavioral deficits after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods—

ICH was produced in adult Sprague Dawley rats by direct injection of autologous blood (50 μL) into striatum. Src kinase activity, glucose hypermetabolic areas around the ICH, TUNEL-stained cells, and apomorphine-induced rotational behaviors were assessed in animals with ICH pretreated with the Src kinase inhibitor, PP1, or with vehicle.

Results—

PP1 (3 mg/kg) blocked increases of Src kinase activity (5-fold) at 3 hours after ICH. PP1 also blocked the areas of glucose hypermetabolism and decreased the numbers of TUNEL-stained cells surrounding the ICH at 24 hours. Finally, apomorphine-induced (1 mg/kg) rotation at 24 hours after ICH was markedly attenuated by previous treatment with PP1 (3 mg/kg intraperitoneal).

Conclusions—

PP1 decreases Src kinase activation, glucose metabolic activation, cell death, and behavioral abnormalities after ICH in striatum of adult rats. It is hypothesized that intracerebral hemorrhage, possibly via thrombin activation of protease-activated receptors, activates Src that phosphorylates NMDA receptors, matrix metalloproteinases, and other proteins that mediate injury after ICH.
Multiple Precipitation Mechanisms over Mountains Observed by Airborne Doppler Radar during MAP IOP5
Authors: Yu Cheng-Ku , Jorgensen David P. , Roux Frank
Published: March 2007

This study uses airborne Doppler radar measurements from the Special Observing Period of the Mesoscale Alpine Programme (MAP) to document the detailed airflow and precipitation structure over the mountainous regions near the border of northeastern Italy and Slovenia as a cold frontal system moved eastward and encountered the eastern Alps on 4 October 1999, during MAP IOP5. In contrast to previously documented MAP cases, the environmental conditions associated with this case are characterized by a deep layer of strong convective instability in the lower troposphere and by a cold, northeasterly continental flow coming down from the mountains (the so-called bora wind) along the southeastern Alps. Over the study region, there are two primary mountain barriers: the Julian Alps, oriented roughly west–east with a peak mountain height of ∼2500 m and a significant variation in terrain height along its length, and the other, the Dinaric Alps, a relatively lower mountain range oriented northwest–southeast, immediately adjacent to the south of the Julian Alps. How these two mountain barriers and the northeasterly continental flow influence the precipitation, and the nature of orographic precipitation developing in a potentially unstable environment, are explicitly addressed. Comprehensive analyses of airborne Doppler radar measurements reveal significant variations of precipitation in terms of its location, intensity, and type over the mountainous region. Particularly, five distinct forcing types of precipitation are evident for this case: slope convergence triggering, upslope triggering, weak slope convergence triggering, gap exit convergence triggering, and slope convergence forced stratiform. These precipitation characteristics are found to be closely related to the environmental thermodynamics, orographic features, and the complicated interactions between the southerly/southwesterly flow, northerly continental flow, and the orography. Details of these important observational aspects are elaborated upon in this paper.
Multiresolution Ensemble Forecasts of an Observed Tornadic Thunderstorm System. Part II: Storm-Scale Experiments
Authors: Kong Fanyou , Droegemeier Kelvin K. , Hickmon Nicki L.
Published: March 2007

In Part I, the authors used a full physics, nonhydrostatic numerical model with horizontal grid spacing of 24 km and nested grids of 6- and 3-km spacing to generate the ensemble forecasts of an observed tornadic thunderstorm complex. The principal goal was to quantify the value added by fine grid spacing, as well as the assimilation of Doppler radar data, in both probabilistic and deterministic frameworks. The present paper focuses exclusively on 3-km horizontal grid spacing ensembles and the associated impacts on the forecast quality of temporal forecast sequencing, the construction of initial perturbations, and data assimilation. As in Part I, the authors employ a modified form of the scaled lagged average forecasting technique and use Stage IV accumulated precipitation estimates for verification. The ensemble mean and spread of accumulated precipitation are found to be similar in structure, mimicking their behavior in global models. Both the assimilation of Doppler radar data and the use of shorter (1–2 versus 3–5 h) forecast lead times improve ensemble precipitation forecasts. However, even at longer lead times and in certain situations without assimilated radar data, the ensembles are able to capture storm-scale features when the associated control forecast in a deterministic framework fails to do so. This indicates the potential value added by ensembles although this single case is not sufficient for drawing general conclusions. The creation of initial perturbations using forecasts of the same grid spacing shows no significant improvement over simply extracting perturbations from forecasts made at coarser spacing and interpolating them to finer grids. However, forecast quality is somewhat dependent upon perturbation amplitude, with smaller scaling values leading to significant underdispersion. Traditional forecast skill scores show somewhat contradictory results for accumulated precipitation, with the equitable threat score most consistent with qualitative performance.
Radial Wind Super-Obs from the WSR-88D Radars in the NCEP Operational Assimilation System
Authors: Alpert Jordan C. , Kumar V. Krishna
Published: March 2007

The spatial and temporal densities of Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) raw radar radial wind represent a rich source of high-resolution observations for initializing numerical weather prediction models. A characteristic of these observations is the presence of a significant degree of redundant information imposing a burden on an operational assimilation system. Potential improvement in data assimilation efficiency can be achieved by constructing averages, called super-obs. In the past, transmission of the radar radial wind from each radar site to a central site was confined to data feeds that filter the resolution and degrade the precision. At the central site, super-obs were constructed from this data feed and called level-3 super-obs. However, the precision and information content of the radial wind can be improved if data at each radar site are directly utilized at the highest resolution and precision found at the WSR-88D radar and then transmitted to a central site for processing in assimilation systems. In addition, with data compression from using super-obs, the volume of data is reduced, allowing quality control information to be included in the data transmission. The super-ob product from each WSR-88D radar site is called level-2.5 super-obs. Parallel, operational runs and case studies of the impact of the level-2.5 radar radial wind super-ob on the NCEP operational 12-km Eta Data Assimilation System (EDAS) and forecast system are compared with Next-Generation Weather Radar level-3 radial wind super-obs, which are spatially filtered and delivered at reduced precision. From the cases studied, it is shown that the level-3 super-obs make little or no impact on the Eta data analysis and subsequent forecasts. The assimilation of the level-2.5 super-ob product in the EDAS and forecast system shows improved precipitation threat scores as well as reduction in RMS and bias height errors, particularly in the upper troposphere. In the few cases studied, the predicted mesoscale precipitation patterns benefit from the level-2.5 super-obs, and more so when greater weight is given to these high-resolution/precision observations. Direct transmission of raw (designated as level 2) radar data to a central site and its use are now imminent, but this study shows that the level-2.5 super-ob product can be used as an operational benchmark to compare with new quality control and assimilation schemes.
A Cautionary Note on the Use of the Kolmogorov–Smirnov Test for Normality
Authors: Steinskog Dag J. , Tjøstheim Dag B. , Kvamstø Nils G.
Published: March 2007

The Kolmogorov–Smirnov goodness-of-fit test is used in many applications for testing normality in climate research. This note shows that the test usually leads to systematic and drastic errors. When the mean and the standard deviation are estimated, it is much too conservative in the sense that its p values are strongly biased upward. One may think that this is a small sample problem, but it is not. There is a correction of the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test by Lilliefors, which is in fact sometimes confused with the original Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Both the Jarque–Bera and the Shapiro–Wilk tests for normality are good alternatives to the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. A power comparison of eight different tests has been undertaken, favoring the Jarque–Bera and the Shapiro–Wilk tests. The Jarque–Bera and the Kolmogorov–Smirnov tests are also applied to a monthly mean dataset of geopotential height at 500 hPa. The two tests give very different results and illustrate the danger of using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test.
Power, Risk, and the Status Quo
Authors: Maner Jon K. , Gailliot Matthew T. , Butz David A. , Peruche B. Michelle
Published: March 2007

Two experiments suggest that the experience of power can interact with a person's level of power motivation to produce effects on risky decision making. In Study 1, assignment to a position of power increased risk taking among participants with low levels of power motivation but reduced risk taking among participants with high levels of power motivation. In Study 2, participants high in power motivation again made more conservative decisions, but only under circumstances in which the dominance hierarchy was unstable and there was potential for losing their power. When power was irrevocable and participants' choices had no bearing on their ability to retain power, both high and low power-motivated participants responded by making riskier decisions. Findings suggest that although power may generally lead to riskier decisions, power may lead to more conservative decisions among power-motivated individuals, especially when the status quo is perceived to be in jeopardy.
The Use of Intra-articular Hylan G-F 20 in the Treatment of Symptomatic Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder
Authors: Silverstein Eric , Leger Robin , Shea Kevin P.
Published: March 2007

Background

While hylan G-F 20 is an approved therapy for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis, there are few reports of its use in shoulder osteoarthritis.

Hypothesis

Hylan G-F 20 can reduce pain and improve function in patients with glenohumeral osteoarthritis.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Thirty consecutive patients with idiopathic glenohumeral osteoarthritis who failed to respond to standard conservative measures were enrolled. Patients received 3 weekly intra-articular hylan G-F 20 injections in their affected shoulder and completed a visual analog scale for pain, the UCLA score, and the Simple Shoulder Test at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months after the third injection.

Results

Of the 30 patients, 3 withdrew during the washout period before treatment; the remaining patients (17 men and 10 women) had an average age of 62 years. The mean baseline visual analog scale score was 54, UCLA score was 15.7, and Simple Shoulder Test score was 5.7 (of 12 possible “yes” responses). At the 6-month follow-up, hylan G-F 20 significantly improved visual analog scale (mean 30, P < .001), UCLA (mean 24, P < .001), and Simple Shoulder Test (7.6 “yes” responses, P < .001) scores. More patients slept comfortably after treatment (56%) versus before treatment (15%). Nine patients had a visual analog scale improvement >40 points after 6 months. No device-related adverse events were observed.

Conclusion

Hylan G-F 20 may have a beneficial therapeutic effect on some symptomatic patients with glenohumeral osteoarthritis.
Measurement and Prediction of the Thermomechanical Response of Shape Memory Alloy Hybrid Composite Beams
Authors: Davis Brian , Turner Travis L. , Seelecke Stefan
Published: March 2007

An experimental and numerical investigation into the static and dynamic responses of shape memory alloy hybrid composite (SMAHC) beams is performed to provide quantitative validation of a recently commercialized numerical analysis/design tool for SMAHC structures. The SMAHC beam specimens consist of a composite matrix with embedded pre-strained SMA actuators, which act against the mechanical boundaries of the structure when thermally activated to adaptively stiffen the structure. Numerical results are produced from the numerical model as implemented into the commercial finite element code ABAQUS. A rigorous experimental investigation is undertaken to acquire high fidelity measurements including infrared thermography and projection moiré interferometry for full-field temperature and displacement measurements, respectively. High fidelity numerical results are also obtained from the numerical model and include measured parameters, such as geometric imperfection and thermal load. Excellent agreement is achieved between the predicted and measured results of the static and dynamic thermomechanical response, thereby providing quantitative validation of the numerical tool.
Rate-dependent Thermo-mechanical Modelling of Superelastic Shape-memory Alloys for Seismic Applications
Authors: Auricchio Ferdinando , Fugazza Davide , Desroches Reginald
Published: March 2007

Experimental tests performed on superelastic shape-memory alloys (SMAs) show a significant dependence of the stress—strain relationship on the loading—unloading rate, coupled with a not negligible oscillation of the material temperature. This feature is of particular importance in view of the use of such materials in earthquake engineering, where the loading rate affects the structural response. Motivated by this observation and by the limited number of available works on the modelling of SMAs for seismic applications, the present article addresses a uniaxial constitutive model for representing the system rate-dependent thermo-mechanical behavior of superelastic SMAs. The model is based on a single internal scalar variable, the martensite fraction, for which different rate-independent evolutionary equations in rate form are proposed. Moreover, it takes into account the different elastic properties between austenite and martensite. The whole model is then thermo-mechanically coupled with a thermal balance equation. Hence, it considers mechanical dissipation as well as latent heat and includes temperature as a primary independent variable, which is responsible for the dynamic effects. The article also provides a description for the integration, in time, of the constitutive equation and presents the solution algorithm of the corresponding time-discrete problem. Finally, results from numerical analyses are reported and the ability of the model to simulate experimental data obtained from uniaxial tests performed on superelastic SMA wires and bars at frequency levels of excitation typical of earthquake engineering is assessed.
Structural Health Monitoring of Composite Structures using Artificial Intelligence Protocols
Authors: Kesavan Ajay , John Sabu , Herszberg Israel
Published: March 2007

This study discusses a structural health monitoring (SHM) system developed to detect the presence of delamination, and predict its location and size in a composite structure. Two structures are considered in this study: a composite beam and a T-joint structure used in ships. Finite element (FE) models of these structures are created, embedded with delaminations, and the strain distribution along the bond-line and surface of the structures is used as a damage characteristic, to get information about the structures' condition. Experimental tests are then conducted to verify the FE model, an excellent corroboration is achieved between the two. Artificial neural networks is then used in tandem with a pre-processing program developed, called the damage relativity assessment technique (DRAT), to determine the presence of the damage and then predict its size and location. This SHM system developed is completely independent of the structures' loading condition and it detected the presence, and predicted the size and location of delaminations with an acceptable level of accuracy.
Active Vibration Confinement of Flexible Structures Using Piezoceramic Patch Actuators
Authors: Yoon Hwan-Sik , Washington Gregory
Published: March 2007

A new full state feedback control strategy is proposed to confine the vibratory motion of flexible structures. The purpose of active vibration confinement is to prohibit structural vibration initiated at some part of a structure from being transferred into a vibration sensitive portion of the structure. It allows more effective vibration suppression especially when control authority is limited. The distributed system is discretized using the finite element method and the control force is calculated such that the closed-loop mode shapes have reduced amplitudes in the concerned area. The derived control algorithm is based on the assumption that all the state variables are known in real time. To obtain this information, a full-state observer, using small segments of piezoelectric film as sensors, is utilized. The proposed approach is demonstrated by an experiment where two PZT patch actuators confine the vibration of a pinned-pinned beam using two PVDF patches as sensors. Both simulation and experiment results verify the effectiveness of the algorithm.
The Total Economic Value of Sporting Events Theory and Practice
Authors: Barget Eric , Gouguet Jean-Jacques
Published: March 2007

The production and consumption of the sporting event generates not only positive externalities (social peace and social links, etc.), butalso negative ones (hooliganism and doping, etc.). Therefore, it is necessary to try to internalize these external effects and determine the total economic value of the sporting event, which would measure the real net social utility created. On this basis, it would be possible to decide whether sporting events deserve to be subsidised—and at whatlevel. More than the general principle that the economic calculation can provide to make a decision, such a determination of the total economic value of a sporting event poses formidable methodological problems. In the case study presented, the authors believe they have reduced many of the biases attached to the travel costs method and contingent valuation method. However, faced with the shortcomings of the cost/benefit method (even when expanded), it is nowadays recommended to resort to a deliberative approach with a view to providing some help in making a decision.
Sports League Expansion and Consumer Welfare
Authors: Kahn Lawrence M.
Published: March 2007

This article studies sports league expansion and consumer welfare. The author assumes that as a sports league expands, the average quality of playing talent falls, and each fan sees superstars fewer times per season. Expansion thus imposes a negative externality on existing fans. If all revenues come from local sources, such as gate receipts and local media, then the optimal league size (which maximizes total fan utility net of team opportunity costs) is the same as the monopoly league size that maximizes total league profits, but the competitive (free entry) league size is too large. If all revenues are national, split evenly, and where a broadcast network charges a uniform national price to viewers, the optimal league size is between the larger competitive size and the smaller monopoly league size. The more elastic the supply of talent is, the closer the competitive size is to the optimum.
Mixed Methods in Intervention Research: Theory to Adaptation
Authors: Nastasi Bonnie K. , Hitchcock John , Sarkar Sreeroopa , Burkholder Gary , Varjas Kristen , Jayasena Asoka
Published: March 2007

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the application of mixed methods research designs to multiyear programmatic research and development projects whose goals include integration of cultural specificity when generating or translating evidence-based practices. The authors propose a set of five mixed methods designs related to different phases of program development research: (a) formative research, Qual →/+ Quan; (b) theory development or modification and testing, Qual → Quan →/+ Qual → Quan ... Qual → Quan; (c) instrument development and validation, Qual → Quan; (d) program development and evaluation, Qual →/+ Quan →/+ Qual →/+ Quan ... Qual →/+ Quan, or Qual →← Quan; and (e) evaluation research, Qual + Quan. We illustrate the application of these designs to creating and validating ethnographically informed psychological assessment measures and developing and evaluating culturally specific intervention programs within a multiyear research program conducted in the country of Sri Lanka.
Toward a Definition of Mixed Methods Research
Authors: Johnson R. Burke , Onwuegbuzie Anthony J. , Turner Lisa A.
Published: March 2007

The purpose of this article is to examine how the field of mixed methods currently is being defined. The authors asked many of the current leaders in mixed methods research how they define mixed methods research. The authors provide the leaders' definitions and discuss the content found as they searched for the criteria of demarcation. The authors provide a current answer to the question, What is mixed methods research? They also briefly summarize the recent history of mixed methods and list several issues that need additional work as the field continues to advance. They argue that mixed methods research is one of the three major “research paradigms” (quantitative research, qualitative research, and mixed methods research). The authors hope this article will contribute to the ongoing dialogue about how mixed methods research is defined and conceptualized by its practitioners.
Integration and Publications as Indicators of "Yield" From Mixed Methods Studies
Authors: O'Cathain Alicia , Murphy Elizabeth , Nicholl Jon
Published: March 2007

A mixed methods study has the potential to produce knowledge that is unavailable to a qualitative study and a quantitative study undertaken independently. Any unique insight or ``yield'' from a mixed methods study may be difficult to assess in practice. However, given that integration of data or findings from different components of a study is a core characteristic of mixed methods research, two possible indicators of yield can be used: first, the extent to which researchers exploit the potential for integration in mixed methods studies; and second, the way in which this integration is communicated in peer-reviewed journal articles. Here, the authors apply these indicators to mixed methods studies in health services research in the United Kingdom.
Media Review: Using Narrative in Social Research Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches
Authors: Cumming Jim
Published: March 2007

This book is different from the majority of books on methodology in two respects. First, it does not focus exclusively on either quantitative or qualitative approaches to research, but instead aims to discuss recent developments in social research methods across the quantitative/qualitative divide. Second, while it aims to give practical guidance on the techniques for carrying out research, and therefore focuses on methods, it also explores current theoretical, methodological, and epistemological debates that (should) underlie the practice of research.
Expression of Tyk2 in dendritic cells is required for IL-12, IL-23, and IFN-γ production and the induction of Th1 cell differentiation
Authors: Tokumasa Naoki , Suto Akira , Kagami Shin-ichiro , Furuta Shunsuke , Hirose Koichi , Watanabe Norihiko , Saito Yasushi , Shimoda Kazuya , Iwamoto Itsuo , Nakajima Hiroshi
Published: March 2007

It is well documented that dendritic cells (DCs), representative antigen-presenting cells, are important sources of Th1-promoting cytokines and are actively involved in the regulation of T-helper–cell differentiation. However, the intracellular event that regulates this process is still largely unknown. In this study, we examined the role of Tyk2, a JAK kinase that is involved in the signaling pathway under IL-12 and IL-23, in DC functions. While the differentiation and maturation of DCs was normal in Tyk2-deficient (Tyk2−/−) mice, IL-12–induced Stat4 phosphorylation was diminished in Tyk2−/− DCs. IL-12–induced IFN-γ production was also significantly diminished in Tyk2−/− DCs to levels similar to those in Stat4−/− DCs. Interestingly, Tyk2−/− DCs were defective in IL-12 and IL-23 production upon stimulation with CpG ODN. Furthermore, Tyk2−/− DCs were impaired in their ability to induce Th1-cell differentiation but not Th2-cell differentiation. Taken together, these results indicate that the expression of Tyk2 in DCs is crucial for the production of Th1-promoting cytokines such as IL-12 and IFN-γ from DCs and thereby for the induction of antigen-specific Th1-cell differentiation.
Lysosome-associated small Rab GTPase Rab7b negatively regulates TLR4 signaling in macrophages by promoting lysosomal degradation of TLR4
Authors: Wang Yuzhen , Chen Taoyong , Han Chaofeng , He Donghua , Liu Haibo , An Huazhang , Cai Zhen , Cao Xuetao
Published: March 2007

Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) initiates both myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88)-dependent and Toll/interleukin (IL)-1R domain–containing adapter, inducing interferon (IFN)-β–dependent signaling, leading to production of proinflammatory mediators and type I interferon (IFN) to eliminate pathogens. However, uncontrolled TLR4 activation may contribute to pathogenesis of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. TLR4 is transported from the plasma membrane to the endosome for ubiqutination and to the lysosome for degradation, and downregulation of TLR4 expression or promotion of TLR4 degradation are important ways for negative regulation of TLR4 signaling. We previously identified a lysosome-associated small guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) Rab7b that may be involved in lysosomal trafficking and degradation of proteins. Here we demonstrate that Rab7b can negatively regulate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-6, nitric oxide, and IFN-β, and potentiate LPS-induced activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase, nuclear factor κB, and IFN regulatory factor 3 signaling pathways in macrophages by promoting the degradation of TLR4. Rab7b is localized in LAMP-1–positive subcellular compartments and colocalized with TLR4 after LPS treatment and can decrease the protein level of TLR4. Our findings suggest that Rab7b is a negative regulator of TLR4 signaling, potentially by promoting the translocation of TLR4 into lysosomes for degradation.
Tumor-derived hyaluronan induces formation of immunosuppressive macrophages through transient early activation of monocytes
Authors: Kuang Dong-Ming , Wu Yan , Chen Nini , Cheng Jiasen , Zhuang Shi-Mei , Zheng Limin
Published: March 2007

Macrophages (Mφ) in most solid tumors exhibit a distinct immunosuppressive phenotype, but the mechanisms that allow tumor microenvironments to “educate” Mφ are incompletely understood. Here, we report that culture supernatants (TSNs) from several types of tumor cell lines can drive monocytes to become immunosuppressive Mφ. Kinetic experiments revealed that soon after exposure to these TSNs, monocytes began to provoke transient proinflammatory responses and then became refractory to subsequent stimulation. Other TSNs that failed to cause such temporary preactivation did not alter Mφ polarization. Consistent with these results, we observed that the monocytes/Mφ in different areas of human tumor samples exhibited distinct activation patterns. Moreover, we found that hyaluronan fragments constitute a common factor produced by various tumors to induce the formation of immunosuppressive Mφ, and also that upregulation of hyaluronan synthase-2 in tumor cells is correlated with the ability of the cells to cause Mφ dysfunction. These results indicate that soluble factors derived from tumor cells, including hyaluronan fragments, co-opt the normal development of Mφ to dynamically educate the recruited blood monocytes in different niches of a tumor. The malignant cells can thereby avoid initiation of potentially dangerous Mφ functions and create favorable conditions for tumor progression.