bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PASSIVELY DETECTING THERMAL EVANESCENT WAVES FROM ROOM TEMPERATURE OBJECTS
Authors: KAJIHARA YUSUKE , KOSAKA KEISHI , KOMIYAMA SUSUMU
Published: February 2011

We have developed a scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscope in long-wavelength infrared region (wavelength: λ ~ 14.5 μm) with a highly sensitive detector, named charge sensitive infrared phototransistor. A tungsten near-field probe was fabricated via electrochemical etching and the sample-probe distance was precisely controlled in shear-force mode. By vertically modulating the probe independently of lateral oscillation for shear-force mode, we successfully detected thermal evanescent waves from a 3 μm-pitch Au/GaAs grating without any external illumination. The spatial resolution was experimentally estimated to be better than 150 nm (λ/100) and the signal-to-noise ratio was around 4 with an averaging time of 300 ms. The strong near-field signal from Au was suggested to be ascribed to thermally excited surface plasmons generating evanescent waves at the surface.
NANOPOROUS SILICON METAL-SEMICONDUCTOR-METAL PHOTODETECTOR
Authors: ATIWONGSANGTHONG N. , NIEMCHAROEN S. , TITIROONGRUANG W.
Published: February 2011

In this paper we present a study on the application of nanoporous silicon to an optoelectronic device called a nanoporous silicon metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) visible light photodetector. This device was fabricated on a nanoporous silicon layer which was formed by electrochemical etching of a silicon wafer in a hydrofluoric acid solution under various anodization conditions such as the resistivity of the silicon wafer, current density, concentration of the hydrofluoric acid solution and anodization time. The structure of this device has two square Al /nanoporous silicon Schottky-barrier junctions on the silicon substrate and the electrode spacing is 500 μm. The experiment will study photoresponse and the response time of a nanoporous silicon MSM photodetector which was fabricated on the various porosity of a nanoporous silicon layer. It is found that when devices are fabricated on a higher porosity nanoporous silicon layer, the photoresponse of the device will expand toward the short-wavelength and the bandwidth of the spectrum response will cover visible light. In addition, it is found that the response time of the device in terms of rise time will decrease.
SELF-REPORTED JOINT AND BACK PAIN AMONG HISPANIC CONSTRUCTION WORKERS: A PILOT WORKPLACE MUSCULOSKELETAL ASSESSMENT
Authors: Caban-Martinez Alberto J. , Lee David J. , Clarke Tainya C. , Davila Evelyn P. , Clark John D. , Ocasio Manuel A. , Fleming Lora E.
Published: February 2011

Construction workers are frequently exposed to awkward work postures and physical demands that can lead to work-related musculoskeletal disorders. There has been limited development of assessment and outreach strategies targeting this highly mobile workforce in general and especially among Hispanic construction workers. We report the prevalence of joint pain from a convenience sample of Hispanic construction workers. A workplace musculoskeletal disorder assessment was undertaken coinciding with construction-site lunch truck visits among 54 workers employed at two large South Florida construction sites. A 45-item questionnaire preloaded onto handheld devices was utilized to record field data. Forty-seven percent of Hispanic workers reported joint pain 30 days prior to interview date, of whom 87% indicated these joint problems interfered with work activities. Over 63% reported experiencing low back pain that lasted at least a whole day during the past 3 months. Right and left knees were the most frequently reported painful joints (both 34%). Musculoskeletal disorders as evident by joint pain, appears to be prevalent among Hispanic construction workers. Workplace ergonomic prevention strategies that reduce musculoskeletal disorders using innovative recruitment and engagement methods (such as during lunch truck construction-site visits) may improve opportunities to reduce joint pain and damage.
BONE-PRESERVING HIP ARTHROPLASTIES AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO CONVENTIONAL HIP REPLACEMENT FOR YOUNG PATIENTS — A REVIEW ARTICLE
Authors: Fenichel Itay , Velkes Steven
Published: February 2011

Hip replacement is one of the most successful orthopedics' procedures in terms of restoring quality of life. In the past, indications for hip replacement were restricted to elderly people, but nowadays advances in bioengineering technology have driven development of hip implants with less wear and loosening and therefore with longer longevity. Early wear and loosening as well as stress shielding and bone preservation are considered as major issues especially when dealing with young patients. The main reason for this is the fact that younger patients might require one or more hip revision procedures during the course of their life due to their age and high activity level.

Especially in young patients it could be an advantage to use primary implants that are more bone preserving and allow more physiological load transfer which cause no or minimal stress shielding at the proximal femur. The two options which exist today are hip resurfacing which preserves the femoral head and various short stem prostheses which transfer the forces in the femur more proximally and more physiologically.

This review looks at the options which are available today in bone preserving hip arthroplasties.
VARIANCE BOUNDING MARKOV CHAINS, L2-UNIFORM MEAN ERGODICITY AND THE CLT
Authors: DERRIENNIC YVES , LIN MICHAEL
Published: February 2011

We prove that variance bounding Markov chains, as defined by Roberts and Rosenthal [31], are uniformly mean ergodic in L2 of the invariant probability. For such chains, without any additional mixing, reversibility, or Harris recurrence assumptions, the central limit theorem and the invariance principle hold for every centered additive functional with finite variance.

We also show that L2-geometric ergodicity is equivalent to L2-uniform geometric ergodicity. We then specialize the results to random walks on compact Abelian groups, and construct a probability on the unit circle such that the random walk it generates is L2-uniformly geometrically ergodic, but is not Harris recurrent.
LIMIT LAW FOR SOME MODIFIED ERGODIC SUMS
Authors: CONZE JEAN-PIERRE , LE BORGNE STÉPHANE
Published: February 2011

An example due to Erdős and Fortet shows that, for a lacunary sequence of integers (qn) and a trigonometric polynomial φ, the asymptotic distribution of [Formula: see text] can be a mixture of Gaussian laws. Here we give a generalization of their example interpreted as the limiting behavior of some modified ergodic sums in the framework of dynamical systems.
MULTIPLE CONCURRENCE OF MULTI-PARTITE QUANTUM SYSTEM
Authors: WU HUA , ZHAO XIN , LI YAN-SONG , LONG GUI-LU
Published: February 2011

We propose a new way of description of the global entanglement property of a multi-partite pure state quantum system. Based on the idea of bipartite concurrence, by dividing the multi-partite quantum system into two subsystems, a combination of all the bipartite concurrences of a multi-partite quantum system is used to describe the entanglement property of the multi-partite system. We derive the analytical results for GHZ-state, W-state with arbitrary number of qubits, and cluster state with the number of particles no greater than 6.
TWO MOVING ATOMS INTERACTING WITH TWO-MODE THERMAL FIELD
Authors: ZIDAN NOUR A.
Published: February 2011

In this paper, we have presented some results of entanglement between two moving atoms, when the multi-photon transition occurs. We obtain the general solution of the system using the unitary operator approach. It is shown that the center-of-mass motion plays an important role on the entanglement dynamics. It is also shown that the initial state settings have an impact on the evaluation.
Synthesis and spectral study of tetra(2,3-thianaphtheno)-porphyrazine, its tetra-tert-butyl derivative and their Mg(II), Al(III), Ga(III) and In(III) complexes
Authors: Taraymovich Ekaterina S. , Korzhenevskii Andrey B. , Mitasova Yulia V. , Kumeev Roman S. , Koifman Oscar I. , Stuzhin Pavel A.
Published: February 2011

Starting from easily available thiophenols (PhSH (1a), 4-tert-butyl-PhSH (1b)) and oxalylchloride we have prepared 2,3-thianaphtenequinones 2a,b which were then successively converted to thianaphthene-2,3-dicarboxylic acids 4a,b their imides 10a,b, diamides 9a,b and finally to thianaphthene-2,3-dicarbonitriles 11a,b — the key precursors for the series of novel porphyrazines bearing four 2,3-annulated thianaphthene moieties. The free-bases 12a,b were obtained by cyclotetramerization of the dinitrile 11a,b in the presence of lithium in n-pentanol, while the reaction with magnesium(II) butoxide in n-butanol leads to the Mg(II) complex 13a. Complexes with Al(III) (14a,b), Ga(III) (14a,b) and In(III) (14a,b) were obtained by the template cyclotetramerization of the dinitriles 11a,b in a melt with the corresponding (hydroxy)acetates. Tetra(2,3-thianaphtheno)porphyrazine 12a and its metal complexes 13a–15a are only sparingly soluble in common organic solvents, the solubility is enhanced for their tert-butyl substituted derivatives 12b, 14b–16b. The study of the electronic absorbtion spectra has revealed that the extension of the porphyrazine π-chromophore by fusion of four thianaphthene fragments due to the angular type of their annulation (similar to that found in 1,2-naphthalocyanines) and negative inductive effect of the sulfur atoms has an effect on its spectral properties which is less than in the case of the isoelectronic naphthalene rings fusion and is comparable with the influence of four benzene rings in phthalocyanines.
Deletion of Dlx1 results in reduced glutamatergic input to hippocampal interneurons
Authors: Jones Daniel L. , Howard MacKenzie A. , Stanco Amelia , Rubenstein John L. R. , Baraban Scott C.
Published: February 2011

Dlx transcription factors are important in the differentiation of GABAergic interneurons. In mice lacking Dlx1, early steps in interneuron development appear normal. Beginning at ∼1 mo of age, primarily dendrite-innervating interneuron subtypes begin to undergo apoptosis in Dlx1−/− mice; this is accompanied by a reduction in GABAergic transmission and late-onset epilepsy. The reported reduction of synaptic inhibition is greater than might be expected given that interneuron loss is relatively modest in Dlx1−/− mice. Here we report that voltage-clamp recordings of CA1 interneurons in hippocampal slices prepared from Dlx1−/− animals older than postnatal day 30 (>P30) revealed a significant reduction in excitatory postsynaptic current (EPSC) amplitude. No changes in EPSCs onto interneurons were observed in cells recorded from younger animals (P9–12). Current-clamp recordings from interneurons at these early postnatal ages showed that interneurons in Dlx1−/− mutants were immature and more excitable, although membrane properties normalized by P30. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP-mediated nick-end labeling, caspase-3, and NeuN staining did not reveal frank cell damage or loss in area CA3 of hippocampal sections from adult Dlx1−/− mice. Delayed interneuron maturation may lead to interneuron hyperexcitability, followed by a compensatory reduction in the strength of excitatory transmission onto interneurons. This reduced excitation onto surviving interneurons, coupled with the loss of a significant fraction of GABAergic inputs to excitatory neurons starting at P30, may underlie cortical dysrhythmia and seizures previously observed in adult Dlx1−/− mice.
Contributors to excess antagonist activity during movement in children with secondary dystonia due to cerebral palsy
Authors: Kukke Sahana N. , Sanger Terence D.
Published: February 2011

Children with secondary dystonia due to cerebral palsy exhibit abnormal upper extremity postures and slow voluntary movement. However, the interaction between abnormal postures and abnormal movement in dystonia is still unclear. Some mechanisms by which postures are maintained in dystonia include stretch reflexes, overflow of muscle activation to other muscles, and direct coactivation of antagonist muscles. This study explored the independent contributions of each of these postural mechanisms to abnormal biceps brachii (antagonist) activity during elbow extension, which slows movement. A linear model of biceps activation as a function of velocity-dependent reflexes, triceps-dependent overflow, and direct drive to the biceps was fitted to experimental data from 11 children and young adults with secondary dystonia due to cerebral palsy and 11 age-matched control subjects. Subjects performed elbow extension movements against each of four levels of resistance without perturbations or in each of two perturbation conditions. Results show that biceps activity in children with dystonia consists of significant contributions of reflex activation, overflow from triceps, and direct muscular drive. Additionally, stretch reflexes during movement are shown to be elevated at three latencies after stretch. These findings suggest that there are postural mechanisms involved in stabilizing the elbow along its slow trajectory during movement and provide a quantitative basis for the selection of treatments targeting specific impairments in children with secondary dystonia due to cerebral palsy.
Peripheral 5-HT1Aand 5-HT7Serotonergic Receptors Modulate Parasympathetic Neurotransmission in Long-Term Diabetic Rats
Authors: Restrepo Beatriz , Martín María Luisa , San Román Luis , Morán Asunción
Published: February 2011

We analyzed the modulation of serotonin on the bradycardia inducedin vivoby vagal electrical stimulation in alloxan-induced long-term diabetic rats. Bolus intravenous administration of serotonin had a dual effect on the bradycardia induced either by vagal stimulation or exogenous Ach, increasing it at low doses and decreasing it at high doses of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), effect reproduced by 5-carboxamidotryptamine maleate (5-CT), a 5-HT1/7agonist. The enhancement of the bradycardia at low doses of 5-CT was reproduced by 5-HT1Aagonist 8-hydroxy-2-dipropylaminotetralin hydrobromide (8-OH-DPAT) and abolished by WAY-100,635, 5-HT1Aantagonist. Pretreatment with 5-HT1antagonist methiothepin blocked the stimulatory and inhibitory effect of 5-CT, whereas pimozide, 5-HT7antagonist, only abolished 5-CT inhibitory action. In conclusion, long-term diabetes elicits changes in the subtype of the 5-HT receptor involved in modulation of vagally induced bradycardia. Activation of the 5-HT1Areceptors induces enhancement, whereas attenuation is due to 5-HT7receptor activation. This 5-HT dual effect occurs at pre- and postjunctional levels.
Changes in Lung Tissue Perfusion in the Prediction of Survival in Fetuses with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Treated with Fetal Endoscopic Tracheal Occlusion
Authors: Cruz-Martínez Rogelio , Moreno-Alvarez Oscar , Hernández-Andrade Edgar , Castañón Montserrat , Martínez Josep Maria , Done Elisa , Deprest Jan , Gratacós Eduard
Published: February 2011

Objective: To assess the impact of lung perfusion by fractional moving blood volume (FMBV) for the prediction of survival in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) treated with fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO). Study Design: Lung perfusion by FMBV (%) and the observed/expected lung-to-head ratio (o/e LHR) were evaluated 1 day before and 7–14 days after FETO in a cohort of 62 CDH fetuses, and their isolated and combined values to predict survival was assessed. Results: Preoperative lung perfusion did not show association with survival. However, after FETO, an increase in 30% of the preoperative lung FMBV and an increase in 50% of the LHR was significantly associated with the probability of survival. A model combining the changes in FMBV and o/e LHR after therapy allowed discrimination of cases with poor (10% survival), moderate (40–70% survival) and very good prognosis (100% survival). Conclusion:Changes in lung tissue perfusion, evaluated by FMBV after FETO, improved the prediction of survival in fetuses with CDH.
Fetoscopic Endotracheal Occlusion for Severe Isolated Diaphragmatic Hernia: Initial Experience from a Single Clinic in Brazil
Authors: Peralta Cleisson Fábio Andrioli , Sbragia Lourenço , Bennini João Renato , de Fátima Assunção Braga Angélica , Sampaio Rousselet Monique , Machado Rosa Izilda Rodrigues , Barini Ricardo
Published: February 2011

Objective: To report on the initial experience in a single Brazilian university clinic of the use of fetoscopic endotracheal occlusion (FETO) to treat severe isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Methods: The inclusion criteria for FETO for this prospective study were isolated CDH and intrathoracic herniation of the liver, as well as the lung area to head circumference ratio (LHR) <1.0. The main variables evaluated were LHR and observed to expected (o/e) LHR before and after FETO, gestational age (GA) at FETO, reversal of tracheal occlusion (TO), and birth and discharge of a living child from the hospital. Results: Among 8 isolated left-sided CDH cases with normal karyotypes, the median LHR and o/e LHR before FETO were 0.7 (range: 0.6–0.9) and 0.27 (range: 0.22–0.32), respectively. The median LHR and o/e LHR after FETO were 1.2 (range: 0.9–1.8) and 0.45 (0.31–0.67), respectively. The median GA at FETO, reversal of TO and birth were 26.8 (range: 26–29), 32.5 (range: 31.0–34.0) and 37 weeks (range: 35–37), respectively. Neonatal survival at the time of hospital discharge was 50% (4/8). Conclusion: FETO is feasible at our institution and may help to improve postnatal survival of children with severe CDH in developing countries.
Prognostic Value of Pulmonary Doppler to Predict Response to Tracheal Occlusion in Fetuses with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Cruz-Martinez Rogelio , Hernandez-Andrade Edgar , Moreno-Alvarez Oscar , Done Elisa , Deprest Jan , Gratacós Eduard
Published: February 2011

Pulmonary Doppler may play an important role in the prediction of survival and postnatal morbidity in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia treated with fetoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO). Spectral Doppler indexes such as pulsatility index and peak early diastolic reversed flow could help to refine the selection of fetuses that might benefit from fetal therapy. When combined with lung-to-head ratio (LHR), these Doppler indices allow to discriminate cases with moderate-to-high survival rates from fetuses with extremely low chances to survive after FETO. In addition, they discriminate groups with a high or low risk of serious neonatal morbidity in surviving fetuses. After therapy, the combined evaluation of the relative increase of LHR with the increase in lung tissue perfusion by power Doppler seems to improve the prediction of fetal survival. In conclusion, while LHR remains the strongest predictive index, Doppler measurements allow to substantially improve the accuracy in the prediction of the chances of survival of fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia treated with FETO.
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology in Lesions of the Nose, Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinuses
Authors: Gupta Nalini , Kaur Jasleen , Srinivasan Radhika , Das Ashim , Mohindra Satyawati , Rajwanshi Arvind , Nijhawan Raje
Published: February 2011

Objective: To assess the spectrum of lesions in the sinonasal region diagnosed on FNAC. Study Design: This is a retrospective audit of sinonasal lesions diagnosed on FNAC over a period of 12 years (1998–2009). Results: Out of a total of 79,851 FNACs, 158 (0.2%) were from the sinonasal region. FNAC was non-diagnostic in 20 (12.6%) cases. Infective/inflammatory lesions comprised of 30 (19%) cases including non-specific inflammation (19), fungal infection (7), tuberculosis (2), actinomycosis (1) and filariasis (1). Benign cysts (24; 15.2%) included epidermal inclusion cysts, mucocele and aneurysmal bone cyst. Benign bone tumors (4) comprised of giant cell tumor, fibrous dysplasia, chondroma, and osteoblastoma. Other benign tumors included lipoma (6), hemangioma (5), schwannoma (2), meningioma (1), pleomorphic adenoma (1), sebaceous adenoma (1) and other skin adnexal tumors (3). Malignant epithelial tumors (24; 15.2%) included squamous cell carcinoma (10), basal cell carcinoma (5), poorly differentiated carcinoma (4) and metastatic carcinoma (5). Two cases of chordoma and one case each of dermatofibrosarcoma pertuberance and hemangiopericytoma were seen. Sarcomas included sarcoma, not otherwise specified (4), rhabdomyosarcoma (3), osteosarcoma (2), chondrosarcoma (2), leiomyosarcoma (1), malignant fibrous histiocytoma (1), fibrosarcoma (1) and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (1). There were cases of malignant small round cell tumor (11), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (3), plasmacytoma (2) and malignant melanoma (2). Conclusion: A variety of non-neoplastic and neoplastic conditions can involve the sinonasal region. FNAC is a reliable diagnostic procedure in a good number of cases, especially in the light of clinico-radiological data.
Human Lens Transmission of Blue Light: A Comparison of Autofluorescence-Based and Direct Spectral Transmission Determination
Authors: Broendsted Adam Elias , Stormly Hansen Michael , Lund-Andersen Henrik , Sander Birgit , Kessel Line
Published: February 2011

Purpose: Direct measurement of the transmission of light through the human lens is not possible in vivo unless invasive techniques are used. In the current study, a reliable in vivo estimate of the transmission of blue light through the lens was assessed by comparing an indirect and noninvasive method based on autofluorescence measurements with a direct method. Methods: Total transmission of blue light was measured in human donor lenses using a direct method applicable only in vitro and compared with transmittance estimates made by an in vivo applicable autofluorescence technique. Results: Human lens transmission of blue light decreases with age by 0.7–0.8% per year at 480 nm. The comparison of methods showed that the autofluorescence-based method correlated significantly with the direct measurements (R = 0.83, p < 0.001) and acceptable agreement between the two methods was found. Discussion: In conclusion, the human lens transmittance of blue light can be measured reliably in vivo. This enables the possibility to correct for retinal light intensities when studying the mechanisms of the circadian rhythm in clinical studies and related disorders and in addition when working with clinical and experimental methods affected by retinal blue light intensities.
Sex Differences in the Cerebellum and Frontal Cortex: Roles of Estrogen Receptor Alpha and Sex Chromosome Genes
Authors: Abel Jean M. , Witt Diane M. , Rissman Emilie F.
Published: February 2011

Most neurobehavioral diseases are sexually dimorphic in their incidence, and sex differences in the brain may be key for understanding and treating these diseases. Calbindin (Calb) D28K is used as a biomarker for the well-studied sexually dimorphic nucleus, a hypothalamic structure that is larger in males than in females. In the current study weanling C56BL/6J mice were used to examine sex differences in the Calb protein and message focusing on regions outside of the hypothalamus. A robust sex difference was found in Calb in the frontal cortex (FC) and cerebellum (CB; specifically in Purkinje cells); mRNA and protein were higher in females than in males. Using 2 mouse lines, i.e. one with a complete deletion of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and the other with uncoupled gonads and sex chromosomes, we probed the mechanisms that underlie sexual dimorphisms. In the FC, deletion of ERα reduced Calb1 mRNA in females compared to males. In addition, females with XY sex chromosomes had levels of Calb1 equal to those of males. Thus, both ERα and the sex chromosome complement regulate Calb1 in the FC. In the CB, ERα knockout mice of both sexes had reduced Calb1 mRNA, yet sex differences were retained. However, the sex chromosome complement, regardless of gonadal sex, dictated Calb1 mRNA levels. Mice with XX chromosomes had significantly greater Calb1 than did XY mice. This is the first study demonstrating that sex chromosome genes are a driving force producing sex differences in the CB and FC, which are neuoranatomical regions involved in many normal functions and in neurobehavioral diseases.
“Whimsical Contrasts”: Love and Marriage in The Minister's Wooing and Our Nig
Authors: Chakkalakal Tess
Published: February 2011

Harriet Wilson's Our Nig (1859), which has been taken to be a response to Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin (1852), has more in common with Stowe's The Minister's Wooing (1859). A reimagining of the lines of influence demonstrates the strengths and weaknesses of Stowe's appreciation of the free black experience in New England.
Mixing in the Transition Layer during Two Storm Events
Authors: Dohan Kathleen , Davis Russ E.
Published: February 2011

Upper-ocean dynamics analyzed from mooring-array observations are contrasted between two storms of comparable magnitude. Particular emphasis is put on the role of the transition layer, the strongly stratified layer between the well-mixed upper layer, and the deeper more weakly stratified region. The midlatitude autumn storms occurred within 20 days of each other and were measured at five moorings. In the first storm, the mixed layer follows a classical slab-layer response, with a steady deepening during the course of the storm and little mixing of the thermocline beneath. In the second storm, rather than deepening, the mixed layer shoals while intense near-inertial waves are resonantly excited within the mixed layer. These create a large shear throughout the transition layer, generating turbulence that broadens the transition layer.

Details of the space–time structure of the frequencies in both short waves and near-inertial waves are presented. Small-scale waves are excited within the transition layer. Their frequencies change with time and there are no clear peaks at harmonics of inertial or tidal frequencies. Wavelet transforms of the inertial oscillations show the evolution as a spreading in frequency, a deepening of the core into the transition layer, and a shift off the inertial frequency. A second near-inertial energy core appears below the transition layer at all moorings coincident with a rapid decay of mixed layer currents.

An overall result is that direct wind-generated motions extend to the depth of the transition layer. The transition layer is a location of enhanced wave activity and enhanced shear-driven mixing.
Observations of the Cross-Lake Cloud and Snow Evolution in a Lake-Effect Snow Event
Authors: Barthold Faye E. , Kristovich David A. R.
Published: February 2011

While the total snowfall produced in lake-effect storms can be considerable, little is known about how clouds and snow evolve within lake-effect boundary layers. Data collected over Lake Michigan on 10 January 1998 during the Lake-Induced Convection Experiment (Lake-ICE) are analyzed to better understand and quantify the evolution of clouds and snow. On this date, relatively cold air flowed from west to east across Lake Michigan, creating a quasi-steady-state boundary layer that increased from ≈675 to ≈910 m in depth over a distance of 80 km. Once a cloud deck formed 14–18 km from the upwind shoreline, maximum cloud particle concentrations and liquid water content increased from west to east across the lake. Correspondingly, maximum ice water contents, snowfall rates, and maximum snow particle diameters also increased across the lake. Maximum particle concentrations were found below the mean top of the boundary layer and above the cloud base for both cloud and snow particles.

Surprisingly, snow particles were observed 3–7 km upwind of the upwind edge of the lake-effect cloud deck. These snow particles were observed to be rather spatially uniform throughout the boundary layer. Based on available observations, it is hypothesized that of the mechanisms that could produce this snow, the majority of it originated from transient clouds located near the upwind shore. In addition, maximum snow particle concentrations peaked near the middle of the lake before decreasing toward the downwind shore, indicating the location after which aggregation became an important snow growth mechanism. These results show that the evolution of clouds and snow within lake-effect boundary layers may not occur in the uniform manner often depicted in conceptual models.
A Large-Eddy Simulation Study of Moist Convection Initiation over Heterogeneous Surface Fluxes
Authors: Kang Song-Lak , Bryan George H.
Published: February 2011

This study uses large-eddy simulations to investigate processes of moist convection initiation (CI) over heterogeneous surface fluxes. Surface energy balance is imposed via a 180° phase lag of the surface moisture flux (relative to the sensible heat flux), such that the relatively warm surface is relatively dry (and the relatively cool surface is relatively wet). As shown in previous simulations, a mesoscale circulation forms in the presence of surface-flux heterogeneity, which coexists with turbulent fluctuations. The mesoscale convergence zone of this circulation develops over the relatively warm surface, and this is where clouds first form. Convection initiation occurs sooner as the amplitude of the heterogeneity increases, and as the surface moisture increases (i.e., Bowen ratio decreases). Shallow clouds initiate when boundary layer heights (zi) become greater than the lifting condensation level (LCL). Deep precipitating clouds initiate when the LCL and level of free convection (LFC) are roughly the same when averaged over the relatively warm surface, which is equivalent to the mean convective inhibition (CIN) becoming nearly zero. From the perspective of the entire (mesoscale) domain, cases with strongly heterogeneous surfaces have a wider distribution of both ziand LCL. Thus, a comparison of ziwith LCL over a mesoscale area (i.e., within one mesoscale model grid box) may lead to misleading conclusions about CI and cloud-base height. It is also shown that as the amplitude of the surface-flux heterogeneity increases the mesoscale convergence zone becomes narrower and stronger. Furthermore, CI occurs earlier over relatively wet surfaces partly because turbulent eddies are more vigorous owing to slightly greater buoyancy.
Classifying ecommerce information sharing behaviour by youths on social networking sites
Authors: Jansen Bernard J. , Sobel Kate , Cook Geoff
Published: February 2011

Teenagers and young adults form an economically critical demographic group and are confronted with an array of internet social networking services just as they are forming online information seeking and sharing habits. Using a survey of 34,514 respondents from myYearbook.com, the research reported in this paper is an inferential analysis of information seeking and sharing behaviours in the ecommerce domain on four social networking sites (Facebook, MySpace, myYearbook and Twitter). Using k-means clustering analysis, we find clusters within this demographic based on levels of being connected on and being engaged with social networking services. Research results show that the majority of this demographic have accounts on multiple social networking sites, with more than 40% having profiles on three social networking sites and an additional 20% having four social networking accounts. We also investigate the motivations for using different social media sites, showing that the reasons for engaging differ among sites. Companies and organizations interested in marketing to this demographic cannot cluster social networking users for more personalized targeting of advertisements and other information.
Yoni, Yoginīs and Mahāvidyās
Authors: Shin Jae-Eun
Published: February 2011

Focusing on one of the most prominent sacred sites of goddess(es) worship in India, the Nīlācala (blue hill) of Guwahati in Assam, this article delineates the historical evolution of a local goddess cult and its association with the groups of multiple feminine deities. Based on literary, inscriptional, archeological and oral sources, it demonstrates three phases of transition amidst political changes: (i) worship of yoni, the local sacred geography, by autochthonous people, (ii) the reorganized Tantric yoginī cult associated with a new regional goddess, who was worshipped by the ruling family of the Mlecchas and the Pālas and ( iii) the magical and comprehensive Mahāvidyās and the restored goddess Kāmākhyā cult by the Koches. Here the transition does not mean a sudden change, but a steady process by which a former tradition not only altered but also continued and acquired new connotation in a different socio-religious context. Instead of applying the analytical distinction which often simplifies the multi-sided and prevalent traditions in the form of binary opposition such as ‘tribal/Hindu’ or ‘local/universal’ or ‘Tantric/Puranic’, this article shows how the divergent strands of incompatible religious traditions became mutually dependent.
Housing Shortage and Communal Politics in European Cities around 1900
Authors: Mišković Nataša
Published: February 2011

In the second half of the nineteenth century, European cities faced a problem well known in postindependence India: the population escalated due to immigration from the rural areas causing rapid and considerable housing shortage. This forced large parts of the poorer classes into miserable living conditions. Lack of space, money and hygiene facilitated the epidemic spread of diseases such as tuberculosis and diarrhoea. The town authorities were called upon to stop speculation and to launch state financed housing projects. However, in reality the situation was very different depending on the place, political aims and financial possibilities arising out of the particular crisis. This article discusses the issue in two continental European cities of around 100,000 inhabitants. The Swiss town of Basel was a hub of trade in Central Europe, while Belgrade was the capital of the Southeastern European kingdom of Serbia.
Cerebellar ataxia: pathophysiology and rehabilitation
Authors: Marsden Jon , Harris Chris
Published: February 2011

This series of articles for rehabilitation in practice aims to cover a knowledge element of the rehabilitation medicine curriculum. Nevertheless they are intended to be of interest to a multidisciplinary audience. The competency addressed in this article is ‘The trainee consistently demonstrates a knowledge of management approaches for specific impairments including spasticity, ataxia.’
Numerical study on the combustion and emission characteristics in a direct-injection diesel engine with preheated biodiesel fuel
Authors: Ren Y , Li X-G
Published: February 2011

The effect of the biodiesel fuel injection temperature on the combustion and emissions characteristics is investigated numerically in a direct-injection diesel engine. In this three-dimensional simulation study, methyl butanoate (MB) is applied as the surrogate of biodiesel fuel, and a detailed chemical kinetic mechanism of MB containing 41 species and 150 reactions is implemented. The results indicate that preheating the biodiesel fuel plays an important role in the spray and atomization processes, especially when the engine operates under the low-temperature condition. Furthermore, the in-cylinder flow turbulence kinetic energy increases and the flame lift-off length shortens with an increase in the fuel injection temperature. The increase in the fuel injection temperature results in a decrease in the equivalence ratio in the fuel-rich area. The results also reveal that both soot and nitrogen oxide emissions are reduced by preheating the biodiesel fuel.
Visual/verbal-analytic reasoning bias as a function of self-reported autistic-like traits
Authors: Fugard Andrew J.B. , Stewart Mary E. , Stenning Keith
Published: February 2011

People with autism spectrum condition (ASC) perform well on Raven’s matrices, a test which loads highly on the general factor in intelligence. However, the mechanisms supporting enhanced performance on the test are poorly understood. Evidence is accumulating that milder variants of the ASC phenotype are present in typically developing individuals, and that those who are further along the autistic-like trait spectrum show similar patterns of abilities and impairments as people with clinically diagnosed ASC. We investigated whether self-reported autistic-like traits in a university student sample, assessed using the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ; Baron-Cohen, Wheelwright, Skinner, et al., 2001), predict performance on Raven’s Advanced Progressive Matrices. We found that reporting poorer social skills but better attention switching predicted a higher Advanced matrices score overall. DeShon, Chan, and Weissbein (1995) classified Advanced matrices items as requiring a visuospatial, or a verbal-analytic strategy. We hypothesised that higher AQ scores would predict better performance on visuospatial items than on verbal-analytic items. This prediction was confirmed. These results are consistent with the continuum view and can be explained by the enhanced perceptual functioning theory of performance peaks in ASC. The results also confirm a new prediction about Raven’s Advanced Progressive Matrices performance in people with ASC.
Tightened intake oxygen control for improving diesel low-temperature combustion
Authors: Asad U , Zheng M
Published: February 2011

The low-temperature combustion (LTC) operation in diesel engines is challenged by the higher cycle-to-cycle variation with heavy exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and high unburnt hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions. Small variations in the intake charge dilution can further decrease the combustion efficiency, which in turn escalates the successive fluctuations of the cylinder charge, adversely affecting the stability and efficiency of the LTC operation. In this work, improvements in the promptness and accuracy of combustion control as well as tightened control on the intake oxygen concentration have been combined to enhance the robustness and efficiency of the LTC operation in diesel engines. The empirical set-up consisted of a set of field programmable gate array (FPGA) modules that were coded and interlaced to execute on-the-fly combustion event modulations on either a cycle-by-cycle or within-the-same-cycle basis. The cylinder pressure traces were analysed to provide the necessary feedback for the combustion control algorithms. A methodology for estimating the indicated mean effective pressure for the current engine cycle helped to stabilize the LTC cycles. Engine dynamometer tests demonstrated that such systematic and prompt control algorithms were effective to optimize the LTC cycles for improved fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions. Moreover, a strategy for enabling load transients within narrow LTC operating corridors was implemented and shown to improve the load management of the LTC cycles. The reported techniques were in part to establish a model-based control strategy for robust diesel LTC operations.
Identification and functional characterization of small non-coding RNAs in Xanthomonas oryzae pathovar oryzae
Authors: Liang Hong , Zhao Ying-Tao , Zhang Jie-Qiong , Wang Xiu-Jie , Fang Rong-Xiang , Jia Yan-Tao
Published: February 2011

Background

Small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs) are regarded as important regulators in prokaryotes and play essential roles in diverse cellular processes. Xanthomonas oryzae pathovar oryzae (Xoo) is an important plant pathogenic bacterium which causes serious bacterial blight of rice. However, little is known about the number, genomic distribution and biological functions of sRNAs in Xoo.

Results

Here, we performed a systematic screen to identify sRNAs in the Xoo strain PXO99. A total of 850 putative non-coding RNA sequences originated from intergenic and gene antisense regions were identified by cloning, of which 63 were also identified as sRNA candidates by computational prediction, thus were considered as Xoo sRNA candidates. Northern blot hybridization confirmed the size and expression of 6 sRNA candidates and other 2 cloned small RNA sequences, which were then added to the sRNA candidate list. We further examined the expression profiles of the eight sRNAs in an hfq deletion mutant and found that two of them showed drastically decreased expression levels, and another exhibited an Hfq-dependent transcript processing pattern. Deletion mutants were obtained for seven of the Northern confirmed sRNAs, but none of them exhibited obvious phenotypes. Comparison of the proteomic differences between three of the ΔsRNA mutants and the wild-type strain by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) analysis showed that these sRNAs are involved in multiple physiological and biochemical processes.

Conclusions

We experimentally verified eight sRNAs in a genome-wide screen and uncovered three Hfq-dependent sRNAs in Xoo. Proteomics analysis revealed Xoo sRNAs may take part in various metabolic processes. Taken together, this work represents the first comprehensive screen and functional analysis of sRNAs in rice pathogenic bacteria and facilitates future studies on sRNA-mediated regulatory networks in this important phytopathogen.
In vivo imaging of pancreatic tumours and liver metastases using 7 Tesla MRI in a murine orthotopic pancreatic cancer model and a liver metastases model
Authors: Partecke Ivo L , Kaeding André , Sendler Matthias , Albers Nele , Kühn Jens-P , Speerforck Sven , Roese Sebastian , Seubert Florian , Diedrich Stephan , Kuehn Sandra , Weiss Ulrich F , Mayerle Julia , Lerch Markus M , Hadlich Stefan , Hosten Norbert , Heidecke Claus-D , Puls Ralf , von Bernstorff Wolfram
Published: February 2011

Background

Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of tumour death in the western world. However, appropriate tumour models are scarce. Here we present a syngeneic murine pancreatic cancer model using 7 Tesla MRI and evaluate its clinical relevance and applicability.

Methods

6606PDA murine pancreatic cancer cells were orthotopically injected into the pancreatic head. Liver metastases were induced through splenic injection. Animals were analyzed by MRI three and five weeks following injection. Tumours were detected using T2-weighted high resolution sequences. Tumour volumes were determined by callipers and MRI. Liver metastases were analyzed using gadolinium-EOB-DTPA and T1-weighted 3D-Flash sequences. Tumour blood flow was measured using low molecular gadobutrol and high molecular gadolinium-DTPA.

Results

MRI handling and applicability was similar to human systems, resolution as low as 0.1 mm. After 5 weeks tumour volumes differed significantly (p < 0.01) when comparing calliper measurments (n = 5, mean 1065 mm3+/-243 mm3) with MRI (mean 918 mm3+/-193 mm3) with MRI being more precise. Histology (n = 5) confirmed MRI tumour measurements (mean size MRI 38.5 mm2+/-22.8 mm2 versus 32.6 mm2+/-22.6 mm2 (histology), p < 0,0004) with differences due to fixation and processing of specimens. After splenic injection all mice developed liver metastases with a mean of 8 metastases and a mean volume of 173.8 mm3+/-56.7 mm3 after 5 weeks. Lymphnodes were also easily identified. Tumour accumulation of gadobutrol was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than gadolinium-DTPA. All imaging experiments could be done repeatedly to comply with the 3R-principle thus reducing the number of experimental animals.

Conclusions

This model permits monitoring of tumour growth and metastasis formation in longitudinal non-invasive high-resolution MR studies including using contrast agents comparable to human pancreatic cancer. This multidisciplinary environment enables radiologists, surgeons and physicians to further improve translational research and therapies of pancreatic cancer.
Effects on quality of life of weekly docetaxel-based chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer: results of a single-centre randomized phase 3 trial
Authors: Nuzzo Francesco , Morabito Alessandro , Gravina Adriano , Di Rella Francesca , Landi Gabriella , Pacilio Carmen , Labonia Vincenzo , Rossi Emanuela , De Maio Ermelinda , Piccirillo Maria Carmela , D'Aiuto Giuseppe , Thomas Renato , Rinaldo Massimo , Botti Gerardo , Di Bonito Maurizio , Di Maio Massimo , Gallo Ciro , Perrone Francesco , de Matteis Andrea
Published: February 2011

Background

To evaluate whether weekly schedules of docetaxel-based chemotherapy were superior to 3-weekly ones in terms of quality of life in locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer.

Methods

Patients with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer, aged ≤ 70 years, performance status 0-2, chemotherapy-naive for metastatic disease, were eligible. They were randomized to weekly or 3-weekly combination of docetaxel and epirubicin, if they were not treated with adjuvant anthracyclines, or docetaxel and capecitabine, if treated with adjuvant anthracyclines. Primary end-point was global quality of life change at 6-weeks, measured by EORTC QLQ-C30. With two-sided alpha 0.05 and 80% power for 35% effect size, 130 patients per arm were needed.

Results

From February 2004 to March 2008, 139 patients were randomized, 70 to weekly and 69 to 3-weekly arm; 129 and 89 patients filled baseline and 6-week questionnaires, respectively. Global quality of life was better in the 3-weekly arm (p = 0.03); patients treated with weekly schedules presented a significantly worsening in role functioning and financial scores (p = 0.02 and p < 0.001). Neutropenia and stomatitis were worse in the 3-weekly arm, where two toxic deaths were observed. Overall response rate was 39.1% and 33.3% in 3-weekly and weekly arms; hazard ratio of progression was 1.29 (95% CI: 0.84-1.97) and hazard ratio of death was 1.38 (95% CI: 0.82-2.30) in the weekly arm.

Conclusions

In this trial, the weekly schedules of docetaxel-based chemotherapy appear to be inferior to the 3-weekly one in terms of quality of life in patients with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00540800.
CREB3 subfamily transcription factors are not created equal: Recent insights from global analyses and animal models
Authors: Chan Chi-Ping , Kok Kin-Hang , Jin Dong-Yan
Published: February 2011

The CREB3 subfamily of membrane-bound bZIP transcription factors has five members in mammals known as CREB3 and CREB3L1-L4. One current model suggests that CREB3 subfamily transcription factors are similar to ATF6 in regulated intramembrane proteolysis and transcriptional activation. Particularly, they were all thought to be proteolytically activated in response to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress to stimulate genes that are involved in unfolded protein response (UPR). Although the physiological inducers of their proteolytic activation remain to be identified, recent findings from microarray analyses, RNAi screens and gene knockouts not only demonstrated their critical roles in regulating development, metabolism, secretion, survival and tumorigenesis, but also revealed cell type-specific patterns in the activation of their target genes. Members of the CREB3 subfamily show differential activity despite their structural similarity. The spectrum of their biological function expands beyond ER stress and UPR. Further analyses are required to elucidate the mechanism of their proteolytic activation and the molecular basis of their target recognition.