bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Minimum Error Linear Coding with Sensory and Neural Noise
Authors: Doi Eizaburo , Lewicki Michael S.
Published: July 2011

Robust coding has been proposed as a solution to the problem of minimizing decoding error in the presence of neural noise. Many real-world problems, however, have degradation in the input signal, not just in neural representations. This generalized problem is more relevant to biological sensory coding where internal noise arises from limited neural precision and external noise from distortion of sensory signal such as blurring and phototransduction noise. In this note, we show that the optimal linear encoder for this problem can be decomposed exactly into two serial processes that can be optimized separately. One is Wiener filtering, which optimally compensates for input degradation. The other is robust coding, which best uses the available representational capacity for signal transmission with a noisy population of linear neurons. We also present spectral analysis of the decomposition that characterizes how the reconstruction error is minimized under different input signal spectra, types and amounts of degradation, degrees of neural precision, and neural population sizes.
Clouds Associated with the Madden–Julian Oscillation: A New Perspective from CloudSat
Authors: Riley Emily M. , Mapes Brian E. , Tulich Stefan N.
Published: July 2011

The evolution of total cloud cover and cloud types is composited across the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) using CloudSat data for June 2006–May 2010. Two approaches are used to define MJO phases: 1) the local phase is determined at each longitude and time from filtered outgoing longwave radiation, and 2) the global phase is defined using a popular real-time multivariate MJO (RMM) index, which assigns the tropics to an MJO phase each day.

In terms of local phase, CloudSat results show a familiar evolution of cloud type predominance: in the growing stages shallow clouds coexist with deep, intense, but narrow convective systems. Widespread cloud coverage and rainfall appear during the active phases, becoming more anvil dominated with time, and finally suppressed conditions return. Results are compared to the convectively coupled Kelvin wave, which has a similar life cycle to the MJO. Convection in the MJO tends to be modulated more by moisture variations compared to the Kelvin wave.

In terms of global phases, wide deep precipitating, anvil, cumulus congestus, and altocumulus types exhibit similar eastward propagation from the Indian Ocean to the central Pacific, while the narrow deep precipitating type only propagates to the Maritime Continent. These propagating types also show coherent Western Hemisphere signals. Generally, negative Western Hemisphere anomalies occur when anomalies are positive over the Indian Ocean.

In both approaches, sampling leads to pictorial renderings of actual clouds across MJO phases. These mosaics provide an objective representation of the cloud field that was unavailable before CloudSat and serve as a reminder to the complex nature of the MJO’s multiscale features.
A Mechanisms-Based Approach to Detecting Recent Anthropogenic Hydroclimate Change*
Authors: Seager Richard , Naik Naomi
Published: July 2011

Both naturally occurring La Niña events and model-projected anthropogenic-driven global warming are associated with widespread drying in the subtropics to midlatitudes. Models suggest anthropogenic drying should already be underway but climate variability on interannual to multidecadal time scales can easily obscure any emerging trend, making it hard to assess the validity of the simulated forced change. Here, the authors address this problem by using model simulations and the twentieth-century reanalysis to distinguish between natural variability of, and radiatively forced change in, hydroclimate on the basis of the mechanisms of variations in the three-dimensional moisture budget that drive variations in precipitation minus evaporation (P − E). Natural variability of P − E is dominated by the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle and is “dynamics dominated” in that the associated global P − E anomalies are primarily driven by changes in circulation. This is quite well reproduced in the multimodel mean of 15 models used in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fourth Assessment Report (IPCC AR4)/Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 3 (CMIP3). In contrast, radiatively forced P − E change is “thermodynamics mediated” in that the rise in specific humidity leads to intensified patterns of moisture transport and P − E. But, as for ENSO, the poleward shift of the storm tracks and mean meridional circulation cells also contribute to changes in P − E. However, La Niña and radiatively forced changes in the zonal mean flow are distinct in the tropics. These distinctions are applied to the post-1979 record of P − E in the twentieth-century reanalysis. ENSO-related variations strongly influence the observed P − E trend since 1979, but removal of this influence leaves an emerging pattern of P − E change consistent with the predictions of the IPCC AR4/CMIP3 models over this period together with, to some extent, consistent contributions from dynamical and thermodynamical mechanisms and consistent changes in the zonal mean circulation. The forced trends are currently weak compared to those caused by internal variability.
Shelf Impact on Buoyant Coastal Current Instabilities
Authors: Pennel Romain , Stegner Alexandre , Béranger Karine
Published: July 2011

The impact of shelf slope on the linear stability of buoyant coastal currents and on the nonlinear formation of coastal meanders and eddies is investigated. The authors consider a simplified two-layer stratification in cylindrical geometry where a buoyant surface current flows along the coast above a denser water, with a flat bottom or steep shelves. Simulations were performed using the Nucleus for European Modelling of the Ocean (NEMO) ocean global circulation model. The initial state of these simulations was defined according to laboratory experiments performed in the same configuration. Comparisons between laboratory and numerical results highlight the role of momentum diffusion and of the initial perturbations amplitude. The authors’ results confirm that the topographic parameter To (ratio between the shelf slope and the isopycnal slope of the current) is the relevant parameter to quantify the shelf impact on the linear and nonlinear dynamics of the surface current. When the evolution of the buoyant coastal current is controlled by the baroclinic instability, the increase of To yields a selection of smaller unstable wavelengths and a decrease of the unstable growth rates. For finite values of To, a complete stabilization of the surface current can be reached. The typical radius of the first eddies generated by the coastal current is set by the linear stage of the baroclinic instability. However, secondary nonlinear processes may lead to larger or smaller structures. The authors exhibit a new dynamical sequence, leading to the formation of submesoscale cyclonic eddies over a steep shelf by splitting of mesoscale eddies. These cyclonic eddies trap and transport water masses and may play an important role in the cross-shelf exchanges.
Subkilometer Simulation of a Torrential-Rain-Producing Mesoscale Convective System in East China. Part I: Model Verification and Convective Organization
Authors: Zhang Man , Zhang Da-Lin
Published: July 2011

A nocturnal torrential-rain-producing mesoscale convective system (MCS) occurring during the mei-yu season of July 2003 in east China is studied using conventional observations, surface mesoanalysis, satellite and radar data, and a 24-h multinested model simulation with the finest grid spacing of 444 m. Observational analyses reveal the presence of several larger-scale conditions that were favorable for the development of the MCS, including mei-yu frontal lifting, moderate cold advection aloft and a moist monsoonal flow below, and an elongated old cold dome left behind by a previously dissipated MCS.

Results show that the model could reproduce the evolution of the dissipating MCS and its associated cold outflows, the triggering of three separate convective storms over the remnant cold dome and the subsequent organization into a large MCS, and the convective generation of an intense surface meso-high and meso-β-scale radar reflectivity morphologies. In particular, the model reproduces the passage of several heavy-rain-producing convective bands at the leading convective line and the trailing stratiform region, leading to the torrential rainfall at nearly the right location. However, many of the above features are poorly simulated or missed when the finest model grid uses either 1.33- or 4-km grid spacing. Results indicate the important roles of isentropic lifting of moist monsoonal air over the cold dome in triggering deep convection, a low-level jet within an elevated moist layer in maintaining conditional instability, and the repeated formation and movement of convective cells along the same path in producing the torrential rainfall.
Updating Short-Term Probabilistic Weather Forecasts of Continuous Variables Using Recent Observations
Authors: Nipen Thomas N. , West Greg , Stull Roland B.
Published: July 2011

A statistical postprocessing method for improving probabilistic forecasts of continuous weather variables, given recent observations, is presented. The method updates an existing probabilistic forecast by incorporating observations reported in the intermediary time since model initialization. As such, this method provides updated short-range probabilistic forecasts at an extremely low computational cost. The method models the time sequence of cumulative distribution function (CDF) values corresponding to the observation as a first-order Markov process. Verifying CDF values are highly correlated in time, and their changes in time are modeled probabilistically by a transition function. The effect of the method is that the spread of the probabilistic forecasts for the first few hours after an observation has been made is considerably narrower than the original forecast. The updated probability distributions widen back toward the original forecast for forecast times far in the future as the effect of the recent observation diminishes. The method is tested on probabilistic forecasts produced by an operational ensemble forecasting system. The method improves the ignorance score and the continuous ranked probability score of the probabilistic forecasts significantly for the first few hours after an observation has been made. The mean absolute error of the median of the probability distribution is also shown to be improved.
Frailty Across the Spectrum of Ankle-Brachial Index
Authors: Singh Siddharth , Bailey Kent R. , Noheria Amit , Kullo Iftikhar J.
Published: July 2011

We investigated the burden of frailty across the spectrum of ankle-brachial index (ABI < 0.9, 0.9 ≤ ABI < 1.1, 1.1 ≤ ABI < 1.4 and ≥1.4) using data from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) in respondents aged >50 years. Criteria used to identify frailty status included weight loss, slow walking speed, weakness, exhaustion, and low physical activity. Participants meeting 1 to 2 criteria were classified as prefrail, and those meeting ≥3 criteria were classified as frail. Prevalence of frailty in respondents with ABI < 0.9 (17.5%) and 0.9 ≤ ABI < 1.1 (6.7%) was higher than in participants with normal ABI-1.1 ≤ ABI < 1.4 (4.7%). In multivariable multinomial logistic regression models, ABI < 0.9 predicted frailty (odds ratio [OR] = 2.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08-4.94) and prefrailty (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 0.90-2.07). Higher prevalence of frailty was seen in participants with ABI ≥ 1.4 (7.3%), P = .39. Frailty predicted general and cardiovascular mortality in participants with ABI < 0.9. Frailty mediates increased morbidity and mortality seen in peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
Religiosity, Family Orientation, and Life Satisfaction of Adolescents in Four Countries
Authors: Sabatier Colette , Mayer Boris , Friedlmeier Mihaela , Lubiewska Katarzyna , Trommsdorff Gisela
Published: July 2011

This study examined the rarely investigated interplay between religiosity, family orientation, and life satisfaction of adolescents across four countries with a Christian tradition and different religious contexts. A mediation relationship between religiosity and life satisfaction through family orientation moderated by the country context of religiosity was examined. In a sample of 1,077 adolescents from France ( n = 172), Germany ( n = 270), Poland ( n = 348), and the United States ( n = 287), we found that in all cultures, religiosity had a positive impact on adolescents’ family orientation, which was in turn related to a higher life satisfaction. This link was stronger in cultures with a high overall religiosity (Poland and the United States) as compared to one of the two cultures with the lowest importance of religion (Germany).
Are all identity commitments created equally? The importance of motives for commitment for late adolescents’ personal adjustment
Authors: Soenens Bart , Berzonsky Michael D. , Dunkel Curtis S. , Papini Dennis R. , Vansteenkiste Maarten
Published: July 2011

On the basis of self-determination theory it is proposed that adolescents’ motives for forming and maintaining identity-relevant commitments can be either autonomous or controlled in nature. This study examined whether motives for identity commitments would add to the prediction of late adolescents’ adjustment beyond the effect of strength of commitment per se. In addition, it was examined how late adolescents’ identity-processing styles would relate to motives for commitment and whether motives for commitment would mediate between identity styles and adjustment. In a sample of 431 late adolescents it was found that autonomous and controlled motives were, respectively, positively and negatively related to adjustment even after taking into account the role of strength of commitment. Each of the three identity styles showed a specific pattern of associations with the motives for commitment, with an information-oriented style relating to the most autonomous and internalized motivational profile. Mediation analyses showed that at least part of the associations between identity styles and adjustment are mediated by motives for commitment. Directions for future research are discussed.
Education, cognitive skills and earnings in comparative perspective
Authors: Barone Carlo , van de Werfhorst Herman G
Published: July 2011

This article investigates to what extent education is rewarded on the labour market because of the cognitive skills it indicates, using IALS data for the US, the UK, Germany and the Netherlands. By empirically distinguishing between general cognitive ability and work-specific cognitive ability, the article shows that the cognitive component of schooling is larger than anticipated by Bowles and Gintis. Instead of around 20 percent of the education effect being cognitive, the results indicate that between 32 and 63 percent of the education effect is cognitive, depending on the country and operationalization of cognitive skills. Moreover, it was shown that the relative importance of general vs work-specific cognitive abilities varies systematically between countries, with a larger fraction of the schooling effect being captured by the work-specific component in Germany and the Netherlands than in the US and the UK. This is explained by the different role of schooling between countries. Importantly, controlling for allocative processes related to the industry, organization and occupation of employment was particularly relevant in Germany, which supports the notion that this country is most credentialized.
Casting, taping or stretching after botulinum toxin type A for spastic equinus foot: a single-blind randomized trial on adult stroke patients
Authors: Carda Stefano , Invernizzi Marco , Baricich Alessio , Cisari Carlo
Published: July 2011

Objective: To investigate the effect of different adjunctive treatments after botulinum toxin type A.

Design: Single-blind, randomized trial, with three-month follow-up.

Setting: Secondary rehabilitative care.

Subjects: Convenience sample of 69 chronic hemiplegic adult patients with spastic equinus foot.

Interventions: Following botulinum toxin type A injection at the plantar flexors, patients were randomly assigned to three groups and treated with either taping, casting or stretching for one week, and with stretching and gait training for the next week.

Outcome measures: Modified Ashworth Scale at plantar flexors, passive range of motion at the ankle, six-minute walking test, 10-metre walking test, Functional Ambulation Categories, ankle dorsiflexor strength were evaluated before treatment ( t0) at 20 days ( t1) and 90 days ( t2) after treatment.

Results: At t1 only the taping and casting groups showed significant improvements in Modified Ashworth Scale, six-minute walking test, 10-metre walking test and passive range of motion ( P < 0.02). At t2, while the results were maintained in the casting group, only six-minute walking test and Modified Ashworth Scale were still significantly improved in the taping group. Ankle dorsiflexor strength and Functional Ambulation Categories did not change in any of the groups at any time. At t2 the casting group performed better than the taping and stretching groups at Modified Ashworth Scale and passive range of motion, and better than the stretching group at six-minute walking test ( P < 0.02).

Conclusions: Combining botulinum toxin type A to the ankle plantar flexors with casting or taping gives better and longer lasting results than with stretching alone.
The Impact of Population Heterogeneity and Income Inequality on Homicide Rates
Authors: Chon Don Soo
Published: July 2011

The current research produces regression models with sample sizes from 127 to 131 by initially employing a data set of 170 nations. The current study finds that ethnic heterogeneity and linguistic heterogeneity lead to higher homicide rates. However, religious heterogeneity has no impact on homicide rates. The present article also tests an interaction effect between population heterogeneity and income inequality. Unlike J. R. Blau and Blau (1982) and Avision and Loring (1986) proposition, the interaction term is not related to national homicide rates. The current study also discusses the theoretical implications of those findings.
Corn baked by burning coal triggered overexpression of osteopontin in hepatocytes of rats following fluorosis
Authors: Zhou Yi-Xia , Mo Sui-Lin , Wang Rui Hua , Liu Wei-Feng , Liu Ji-Chan , Wang Jia-Qi , He Jiang , Zhang Hua , Guan Zhi-Zhong , Zhou Shu-Feng , Yu Yan-Ni
Published: July 2011

Objective: To observe the expression of osteopontin (OPN) in hepatocytes of rats fed with corn baked by burning coal from fluorosis areas and a deficiency of calcium/protein intake following fluorosis. Methods: A total of 48 Wistar rats as objects were randomly assorted into four groups: dose-free fluorine group, which were mainly fed with fluorine-free corn (56% structurally), dose-free fluorine with biased dietary group, which were fed with lower contents of protein (119.41 g/kg) and calcium (0.68 g/kg), high-dose fluorine group (fluorine contents: 104.2 mg/kg), and high-dose fluorine with biased dietary group. After 180 days of cultivation, the contents of fluorine in the bones of rats were tested for the assessment of construction of fluorosis animal model. And the expression of OPN in hepatocytes of rats in different groups was detected with immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Results: The present study validated the result that OPN was overexpressed in hepatocytes following fluorosis after oral intake of burning coal-baked corn. OPN was expressed most significantly in high fluorine with biased dietary group, and the high-fluorine group ranked the second most; and dose-free fluorine with biased dietary group ranked the third. The dose-free fluorine group expressed the least OPN. Conclusion: Overexpression of OPN in hepatocytes following fluorosis after excess fluorine intake was involved in liver damage process, which was enhanced by deficiency of calcium and protein intake. The results also demonstrated that the development of fluorosis in Guizhou province was correlated with local baking staple corn as a way of excess intake of fluorine and deficiency of calcium/protein intake.
Inflammatory response in rat lungs with recurrent exposure to welding fumes
Authors: Oh Jung-Hwa , Yang Mi-Jin , Heo Jeong-Doo , Yang Young-Su , Park Han-Jin , Park Se-Myo , Kwon Myung-Sang , Song Chang-Woo , Yoon Seokjoo , Yu Il Je
Published: July 2011

As chronic exposure to welding fumes causes pulmonary diseases, such as pneumoconiosis, public concern has increased regarding continued exposure to these hazardous gases in the workplace. In a previous study, the inflammatory response to welding fume exposure was analysed in rat lungs in the case of recurrent exposure and recovery periods. Thus using lung samples, well-annotated by histological observation and biochemical analysis, this study examines the gene expression profiles to identify phenotype-anchored genes corresponding to lung inflammation and the repair phenomenon after recurrent welding fume exposure. Seven genes ( Mmp12, Cd5l, LOC50101, LOC69183, Spp1, and Slc26a4) were found to be significantly up-regulated according to the severity of the lung injury. In addition, the transcription and translation of Trem2, which was up-regulated in response to the repair process, were validated using a real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. The differentially expressed genes in the exposure and recovery groups were also classified using k-means and hierarchical clustering, plus their toxicological function and canonical pathways were further analysed using Ingenuity Pathways Analysis Software. As a result, this comprehensive and integrative analysis of the transcriptional changes that occur during repeated exposure provides important information on the inflammation and repair processes after welding-fume-induced lung injury.
Mainstreaming Technological Change in the Study of Public Management
Authors: Pollitt Christopher
Published: July 2011

Several scholars have commented on the marginalization of information technology within the field of academic public administration – how it has tended to become the preserve of a minority of e-government specialists. This paper extends the point to the larger issue of technological change as a whole. In response to this, the paper develops a conceptual framework for the analysis of technological change, which relates it to some of the mainstream concerns of the field. To this end the framework incorporates effects on citizen users of public services, on service providers, suppliers/contractors, politicians and on wider cultural norms and beliefs. Each of these is illustrated and referenced, demonstrating not only the flexibility of the framework but also the pervasiveness of technological change. This approach can be adapted for use with a wide range of theoretical approaches.
Flow control effectiveness of synthetic jet on a stalled airfoil
Authors: Luo D H , Sun X J , Huang D G , Wu G Q
Published: July 2011

Synthetic jet has attracted much attention for its use as an effective active flow control technique. With the aim of achieving a deeper understanding of the mechanisms and the critical fluid flow phenomena associated with synthetic jet, 2D simulations are conducted, in which a synthetic jet is placed on a NACA 0012 airfoil’s upper surface near the leading edge simulating the periodic blowing and suction control at Re = 5 × 105 and an angle of attack of 18°. Important control parameters, such as jet amplitude and frequency are investigated over a wide range and the jet width is also considered. Numerical results show that the recirculation region on the airfoil is decreased with a maximum increase in the lift by about 40 per cent and a reduced drag. The synthetic jet is found to be particularly effective at high forcing levels when the forcing frequency fe is close to the natural shedding frequency of the airfoil, and however become ineffective at low forcing levels. Use of higher forcing frequencies further decreases the drag of the airfoil but also reduces the lift.
Mammary adenoma with sebaceous differentiation in a dog
Authors: Yasuno Kyohei , Takagi Yoshiichi , Kobayashi Ryosuke , Ohmuro Tamio , Kamiie Junichi , Sahara Hiroeki , Shirota Kinji
Published: July 2011

The current report describes a complex canine mammary adenoma with a rare histological feature characterized by sebaceous differentiation of tumor cells. A 13-year-old, mixed-breed, intact female dog had mammary tumors on the right mammary chain. Histologically, one of the masses was composed of bilayered ductal structures with luminal epithelial cells together with basaloid or myoepithelial cell components. Within the tumor, there were a number of lobules and nests of large foamy cells associated with basaloid reserve–like cells similar to sebaceous gland. Squamous metaplasia was also seen within the tumor. Immunohistochemical staining indicated that the tumor cells with sebaceous differentiation were positive for cytokeratin (CK)14 and that the associated basaloid reserve–like cells were positive for p63. In contrast, other luminal epithelial tumor cells were positive for CK18 and CK19, but not for CK14 and p63. The myoepithelial cells were positive for α-smooth muscle actin and p63. The expression of p63 in both sebaceous basaloid reserve–like cells and myoepithelial cells, and their structural continuity within the tumor tissue, suggested a common origin of these 2 components.
Molecular characterization and epidemiological investigation of Pigeon circovirus isolated in eastern China
Authors: Zhang Zhicheng , Lu Chengping , Wang Yang , Wang Shaohui , Dai Dingzhen , Chen Zhongming , Fan Hongjie
Published: July 2011

To investigate the prevalence and genetic characterization of Pigeon circovirus (PiCV) circulating in Chinese flocks, the genomic DNA of 144 samples collected from pigeons in 6 different geographic regions of eastern China between 2009 and 2010 were amplified using previously published PiCV primers. The PiCV sequence was detected in 83 of 104 unhealthy pigeons (79.8%) and 25 of 40 healthy pigeons (62.5%). The overall positive rate was 75% for all samples. An inverse primer polymerase chain reaction (IP-PCR) assay was performed to amplify the full-length sequence from a random sample of each region, and 6 specific DNA fragments were gel-purified and sequenced. The 6 full-length sequences were designated as SHWH-AB4 (2,031 bp), NJPK-21 (2,035 bp), HBLF-E2 (2,031 bp), JSJN (2,039 bp), SDDZ (2,037 bp), and AHBZ (2,035 bp) after BLAST analyses. The phylogenic tree and amino acid comparison indicated that all the strains examined were derived from a common strain, but had undergone genetic mutations through time. Pairwise comparisons revealed 93.4%–100% amino acid identity for the putative replication-associated proteins and 67.5%–100% for the putative capsid proteins.
Clostridium difficile in retail meat and processing plants in Texas
Authors: Harvey Roger B. , Norman Keri N. , Andrews Kathleen , Norby Bo , Hume Michael E. , Scanlan Charles M. , Hardin Margaret D. , Scott Harvey M.
Published: July 2011

The incidence and severity of disease associated with toxigenic Clostridium difficile have increased in hospitals in North America from the emergence of newer, more virulent strains. Toxigenic C. difficile has been isolated from food animals and retail meat with potential implications of transfer to human beings. The objective of the present study was to determine the prevalence of C. difficile in pork from sausage manufacturing plants and retail meat in Texas. Twenty-three C. difficile isolates were detected from 243 meat samples (9.5%) from 3 sausage-manufacturing plants and 5 retail meat outlets from 2004 to 2009. Twenty-two isolates were positive for toxins A, B, and binary toxin, and were characterized as toxinotype V, PFGE type-NAP7, or “NAP7-variant.” Susceptibilities to 11 antimicrobial agents in the current study were similar to those reported previously for toxinotype V isolates, although the results suggested somewhat reduced resistance than reported for other meat, animal, or human clinical toxinotype V isolates.
Comparison of three typing assays for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide–independent Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: Maldonado Jaime , Blanco Mónica , Martínez Eva , Navas Jesús
Published: July 2011

Three tests for typing clinical isolates of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae biovar 2 were compared: 1) standard coagglutination with type-specific antisera against serovars 1–12 of biovar 1 of A. pleuropneumoniae; 2) a previously described polymerase chain reaction system for detecting the apx genes encoding the ApxI, ApxII, and ApxIII toxins in A. pleuropneumoniae; and 3) a restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of the transferrin-binding protein B gene. The panel of strains tested included 112 field isolates of biovar 2 recovered from pigs between 1979 and 2007 in Italy and Spain, and reference strains for all described serovars of both biovars. The values of Simpson index of diversity obtained for the 3 methods were 0.68, 0.20, and 0.60, respectively. Coagglutination assays identified the field isolates as belonging to serovars 2 (9 strains), 4 (13 strains), 7 (61 strains), 9 (17 strains), and 11 (1 strain). Eleven strains were not typeable, and cross-reactivity was observed between serovars 2 and 4, 4 and 7, and 9 and 11. Isolates of A. pleuropneumoniae biovar 2 displayed 2 apx patterns: ApxII+ (94 strains) and ApxI+/ ApxII+ (18 strains). The restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis assigned the strains tested to 3 different patterns. This method distinguished between biovar 2 reference strains and field strains that could not be identified by other methods, thus constituting a useful complementary test for the typing of A. pleuropneumoniae biovar 2.
Effects of Antiphospholipid Antibodies on In Vitro Platelet Aggregation
Authors: Palatinus Anita A. , Ahuja Kiran D. K. , Adams Murray J.
Published: July 2011

Antiphospholipid antibodies contribute to the development of thrombosis, although precise mechanisms remain to be elucidated. We determined the effects of affinity-purified anti-beta2-glycoprotein 1 (anti-β2GP1) and anti-prothrombin (anti-PT) antibodies on in vitro platelet aggregation. Adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and collagen-induced platelet aggregation were performed using platelet-rich plasma ([PRP] 250 × 109/L). Antiphospholipid antibodies (1.25-10 μg/mL) were preincubated with PRP for 10 minutes at 37°C prior to the addition of agonist. Anti-β2GP1 antibodies significantly reduced platelet aggregation (percentage area under the curve; %AUC) in a concentration-dependent manner using both 5 μmol/L ( P < .001) and 2.5 μmol/L ( P = .038) ADP but did not significantly affect the rate of aggregation. Anti-PT antibodies significantly enhanced 5 µg/mL collagen-induced platelet aggregation (%AUC; P = .034) but did not affect ADP-induced platelet aggregation. These results suggest (1) interactions and effects of antiphospholipid antibodies on platelets are agonist and concentration dependent and (2) anti-β2GP1 antibodies may inhibit dense granule release and/or inhibition of the arachidonic acid pathway.
Defibrotide Blunts the Prothrombotic Effect of Thalidomide on Endothelial Cells
Authors: Echart C. L. , Somaini S. , Distaso M. , Palumbo A. , Richardson P. G. , Fareed J. , Iacobelli M.
Published: July 2011

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) are at relatively high risk of developing thromboembolic events such deep venous thrombosis (DVT) where thalidomide therapy has been identified to increase this risk. Defibrotide (DF), a polydisperse oligonucleotide, showed previously to counteract the alterations in endothelial cells (ECs) induced by lipopolysaccharide. It prompts us to investigate the impact of thalidomide on ECs and whether DF modulates changes in fibrinolysis induced by thalidomide. In this in vitro study, MM by itself alters the profibrinolytic potential of ECs decreasing the tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and increasing the plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) levels which is potentiated by thalidomide. Defibrotide was able to counteract these effects. Additionally, DF upregulated the t-PA and downregulated PAI-1 gene expression modulated by thalidomide. Defibrotide also protects ECs from thalidomide-mediated cell death without interfering with its antitumor effects. These findings support DF clinical use for the prevention of DVT induced by immunomodulatory drugs.
A Fourier series solution for the transverse vibration of a clamped beam with a torsional damper at the boundary
Authors: Jovanovic Vojin
Published: July 2011

In this paper we present the generalized Fourier series solution for the transverse vibration of a beam subjected to a viscous end condition in the form of a torsional damper. The model of the system produces a nonself-adjoint eigenvalue-like problem that does not yield orthogonal eigenfunctions; therefore, such functions cannot be used to calculate the coefficients of expansion in the Fourier series. Furthermore, the eigenfunctions and eigenvalues are complex valued. Nevertheless, the eigenfunctions can be utilized if the space of the operator is extended and a suitable inner product is defined. The methodology presented in the paper utilizes Hilbert space methods and is applicable in general to other problems of this type. As an adjunct to the theoretical discussion, the results from numerical simulations are presented.
Experiments on chaotic vibrations of a post-buckled cantilevered beam connected by a string to an axial spring
Authors: Maruyama Shinichi , Nagai Ken-ichi , Sogamoto Daichi , Yamaguchi Takao
Published: July 2011

Experimental results are presented on chaotic vibrations of a post-buckled cantilevered beam constrained by a string. The string is stretched between the top end of the beam and an axial spring. The axial spring consists of a leaf spring with an attached mass and is fixed on a base frame close to the clamped end of the beam. The length of the string is less than that of the beam. The beam is excited by lateral periodic acceleration. By increasing the attached mass on the axial spring, nonlinear responses of the beam are examined. Nonperiodic response is observed in a typical frequency region. The response is examined by the Fourier spectrum, maximum Lyapunov exponents, Poincaré projection, and principal component analysis. Predominant chaotic response is generated by the internal resonance with a frequency ratio of one-to-three. The fundamental mode and the second mode of vibration are strongly coupled in the chaotic response. When the attached mass of the axial spring is increased, the natural frequency of the axial spring approaches the region of chaotic response. Therefore, the number of vibration modes that contribute to the chaos increases. Furthermore, the Poincaré projection of the chaotic response shows more scattered figures.
Contact dermatitis induced by glatiramer acetate
Authors: Haltmeier S , Yildiz M , Müller S , Anliker MD , Heinzerling L
Published: July 2011

Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone®) is an immunomodulatory polypeptide used in patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis. It represents a safe treatment option with mild side effects. In this study, we look at a 39-year-old woman who received glatiramer acetate as subcutaneous injections for two months and developed contact dermatitis. The drug had to be stopped, and treatment with topical prednisone was initiated. Prick/scratch testing was negative but the lymphocyte transformation test was highly positive for glatiramer acetate. This is the first report on contact dermatitis induced by glatiramer acetate injections. The treatment consisted of local topical steroids and cessation of the drug.
The paradox of public health genomics: Definition and diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolaemia in three European countries
Authors: Aarden Erik , Van Hoyweghen Ine , Horstman Klasien
Published: July 2011

Aims: Considerable progress in public health is expected to occur from the application of genomic knowledge and technologies. This is the subject of a newly emerging field of public health genomics. In this paper we analyze differences in how public health genomics is developing in the Netherlands, the UK and Germany through the definition and diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH), an inherited predisposition for coronary heart disease. Methods: We analyzed the emergence of public health genomics within the framework of a project on the incorporation of genetics in western European healthcare schemes. Our analysis is based on document analysis and in-depth interviews. Results: In the Netherlands, public health genomics takes shape through a genetic screening programme for FH, looking for mutations on two specific genes; in the UK it emerges through a strategy of ‘‘mainstreaming’’ genetics in health care that aims to identify hereditary predispositions by means of phenotypic diagnosis; and in Germany public health genomics is elaborated at a conceptual level, leaving a diagnosis of FH to individual physicians who occasionally prescribe genetic testing. Conclusions: Our analysis shows how public health genomics gets constituted differently in different countries and, moreover, produces particular patterns of inclusion and exclusion from care. These patterns indicate a paradox in public health genomics, which consists of an inverse relationship between the use of advanced molecular genetic testing technologies and the number and variety of individuals at risk included in the target population. This paradox presents a challenge for professionals and policy makers in public health genomics.
Physiological regulation of extracellular matrix collagen and elastin in the arterial wall of rats by noradrenergic tone and angiotensin II
Authors: Dab Houcine , Kacem Kamel , Hachani Rafik , Dhaouadi Nadra , Hodroj Wassim , Sakly Mohsen , Randon Jacques , Bricca Giampiero
Published: July 2011

The interactions between the effects of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and angiotensin II (ANG II) on vascular extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis were determined in rats.

The mRNA and protein content of collagen I, collagen III and elastin in the abdominal aorta (AA) and femoral artery (FA) was investigated in Wistar–Kyoto rats treated for 5 weeks with guanethidine, a sympathoplegic, losartan, an ANG II AT1 receptor (AT1R) blocker, or both. The effects of noradrenaline (NE) and ANG II on collagen III and elastin mRNA, and the receptor involved, were tested in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in vitro.

Guanethidine increased collagen types I and III and decreased elastin, while losartan had an opposite effect, although without effect on collagen III. The combination of treatments abrogated changes induced by simple treatment with collagen I and elastin, but increased collagen III mRNA in AA and not in FA. NE stimulated collagen III mRNA via β receptors and elastin via α1 and α2 receptors. ANG II stimulated collagen III but inhibited elastin mRNA via AT1R.

Overall, SNS and ANG II exert opposite and antagonistic effects on major components of ECM in the vascular wall. This may be of relevance for the choice of a therapeutic strategy in vascular diseases.
Improvement of Heart Rate Variability by Eurythmy Therapy After a 6-Week Eurythmy Therapy Training
Authors: Seifert Georg , Kanitz Jenny-Lena , Pretzer Kim , Henze Günter , Witt Katharina , Reulecke Sina , Voss Andreas
Published: July 2011

Background. Eurythmy therapy (EYT) is a mind–body therapy used in anthroposophic medicine. Recently, the authors were able to show that at comparable workloads, EYT stimulated heart rate variability (HRV) whereas conventional ergometer training attenuated HRV. Furthermore, a long-term improvement of quality of life (QoL) and stress coping strategies by EYT could be shown. Objective. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term effects of EYT training on HRV. Design: A total of 23 healthy women (mean age = 44.57 ± 8.04 years) performed 10 hours of EYT over a period of 6 weeks. Electrocardiograms were recorded before and after the EYT trial. HRV was quantified by the extent of high (HF), low (LF), very low (VLF), and ultra low frequency (ULF) oscillations of heart rate. Results. Autonomic regulation was significantly changed following the EYT training compared with baseline. Especially the proportion referring to the total power (P) of HF/P and LF/P increased, whereas ULF/P and (ULF+VLF)/P decreased after the training period. Conclusion. EYT shifted the autonomic regulation proportionally referring to the total power mainly caused by changes of ULF and VLF components of HRV. The LF and HF spectral components were also decreased following EYT while their proportion in relation to the total variance of the power spectrum was increased. The proportional enhancement of the higher frequency and the decrease of the ULF and VLF components are probably an indicator of an improvement of autonomic regulation processes by more relaxed physical activity after the EYT training, thus supporting the plausibility of the improved QoL and better stress coping strategies.
Listening to the heart-brain talk: persistent depressive symptoms are associated with hsCRP in apparently healthy individuals at high risk for coronary artery disease
Authors: Azar Rima , Nolan Robert P , Stewart Donna E
Published: July 2011

Background: This study examined whether mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms are associated with increased high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels in apparently healthy individuals at high risk for coronary artery disease. We investigated in individuals whether: (1) current depressive symptoms were associated with increased hsCRP and IL-6 levels; (2) persistent depressive symptoms at two time points 6 months apart were associated with hsCRP and IL-6; and (3), sex-based differences in inflammation were a function of depressive symptoms.

Methods: We measured depressive symptoms (twice), hsCRP, and IL-6 (follow-up time point) in 84 apparently healthy individuals (52% women) at high cardiac risk.

Results: Patients with persistent depressive symptoms had higher hsCRP, compared to participants without persistent symptoms (5.55 vs. 1.70 mg/l, p < 0.05, 95% CI 0.11 to 1.09, d = 0.67). Participants with current depressive symptoms had higher hsCRP (3.99 vs. 1.70 mg/l, p = 0.059) than those without symptoms. Findings remained unchanged after controlling for covariates. Women had higher adjusted hsCRP than men (2.91 vs. 1.87 mg/l, p < 0.001). When we entered depressive symptoms, the model remained significant, with a significant interaction between sex and symptoms: women with depressive symptoms had higher hsCRP than men with depressive symptoms and than women without symptoms (6.75 vs. 1.11 mg/l). The hypothesized differences were not observed with respect to IL-6, after controlling for body mass index (95% CI−0.77 to 0.73).

Conclusions: Before a first ischaemic coronary event, persistent mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms were associated with increased hsCRP. Women with depressive symptoms had higher hsCRP than men with symptoms.
Experimental approaches in the treatment of multiple myeloma
Authors: Khan Saad A. , Cohen Adam D.
Published: July 2011

Myeloma therapy has undergone significant advances in recent years resulting in a marked improvement in survival. Knowledge of the active pathways involved in myeloma pathogenesis has led to the discovery of novel agents and greatly expanded the potential armamentarium available for treatment. This better understanding of the disease and resistance mechanisms has resulted in new agent classes that are being evaluated in preclinical and early clinical studies. In addition, dosing for existing agents is being optimized, and they are being given in new combinations. In this article, we review experimental agents that are showing promise in multiple myeloma treatment. New biological agents in clinical trials hold the promise of efficacy through novel mechanisms of action, with a significant reduction of dose-limiting toxicities compared with classic cytotoxic chemotherapeutics. Second-generation proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulatory agents are furthest along in clinical development, and histone deacetylase inhibitors, heat shock protein 90 inhibitors, Akt inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies are some of the other agents entering later-phase clinical trials. We also review developments in targeting the myeloma stem cell as an exciting new treatment direction.
Proximal Tibia and Fibula Fragility Fracture Complicated by Anticoagulation and Demand-Mediated Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Mendelson Daniel , Kates Stephen , Pacos Jason , Clark Nathan , Wu Joanne
Published: July 2011

We present for discussion a case of a right displaced proximal metaphyseal tibial fracture with intraarticular extension and a same-level proximal fibula fracture with severe degenerative arthritis in a medically complex 89 year old community dwelling woman with a history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, right lower extremity deep venous thrombosis 1 month prior to this admission on warfarin, obesity, peripheral vascular disease, and previous stroke. Her course is complicated by demand-mediated myocardial infarction. This case demonstrates that comanagement can lead to minimal delays and a satisfactory outcome in a complex, high-risk patient.
Prolonged self-renewal activity unmasks telomerase control of telomere homeostasis and function of mouse hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Sekulovic Sanja , Gylfadottir Vala , Vulto Irma , Gasparetto Maura , Even Yasmine , Brookes Christy , Smith Clayton , Eaves Connie J. , Lansdorp Peter M. , Rossi Fabio M. , Humphries R. Keith
Published: July 2011

Strategies for expanding hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) could have significant utility for transplantation-based therapies. However, deleterious consequences of such manipulations remain unknown. Here we examined the impact of HSC self-renewal divisions in vitro and in vivo on their subsequent regenerative and continuing ability to sustain blood cell production in the absence of telomerase. HSC expansion in vitro was obtained using a NUP98-HOXA10hd transduction strategy and, in vivo, using a serial transplant protocol. We observed ∼ 10kb telomere loss in leukocytes produced in secondary mice transplanted with HSCs regenerated in primary recipients of NUP98-HOXA10hd-transduced and in vitro-expanded Tert−/− HSCs 6 months before. The second generation leukocytes also showed elevated expression of γH2AX (relative to control) indicative of greater accumulating DNA damage. In contrast, significant telomere shortening was not detected in leukocytes produced from freshly isolated, serially transplanted wild-type (WT) or Tert−/− HSCs, suggesting that HSC replication posttransplant is not limited by telomere shortening in the mouse. These findings document a role of telomerase in telomere homeostasis, and in preserving HSC functional integrity on prolonged self-renewal stimulation.