bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A survey on UML-based aspect-oriented design modeling
Authors: Wimmer Manuel , Schauerhuber Andrea , Kappel Gerti , Retschitzegger Werner , Schwinger Wieland , Kapsammer Elizabeth
Published: October 2011

Aspect-orientation provides a new way of modularization by clearly separating crosscutting concerns from noncrosscutting ones. While aspect-orientation originally has emerged at the programming level, it now stretches also over other development phases. There are, for example, already several proposals for Aspect-Oriented Modeling (AOM), most of them pursuing distinguished goals, providing different concepts as well as notations, and showing various levels of maturity. Consequently, there is an urgent need to provide an in-depth survey, clearly identifying commonalities and differences between current AOM approaches. Existing surveys in this area focus more on comprehensibility with respect to development phases or evaluated approaches rather than on comparability on bases of a detailed evaluation framework.

This article tries to fill this gap focusing on aspect-oriented design modeling. As a prerequisite for an in-depth evaluation, a conceptual reference model is presented as the article's first contribution, centrally capturing the basic design concepts of AOM and their interrelationships in terms of a UML class diagram. Based on this conceptual reference model, an evaluation framework has been designed, resembling the second contribution, by deriving a detailed and well-defined catalogue of evaluation criteria, thereby operationalizing the conceptual reference model. This criteria catalogue is employed together with a running example in order to evaluate a carefully selected set of eight design-level AOM approaches representing the third contribution of the article. This per approach evaluation is complemented with an extensive report on lessons learned, summarizing the approaches' strengths and shortcomings.
Constraint programming systems for modeling music theories and composition
Authors: Anders Torsten , Miranda Eduardo R.
Published: October 2011

Constraint programming is well suited for the computational modeling of music theories and composition: its declarative and modular approach shares similarities with the way music theory is traditionally expressed, namely by a set of rules which describe the intended result. Various music theory disciplines have been modeled, including counterpoint, harmony, rhythm, form, and instrumentation. Because modeling music theories “from scratch” is a complex task, generic music constraint programming systems have been proposed that predefine the required building blocks for modeling a range of music theories. After introducing the field and its problems in general, this survey compares these generic systems according to a number of criteria such as the range of music theories these systems support.
A survey of hard real-time scheduling for multiprocessor systems
Authors: Davis Robert I. , Burns Alan
Published: October 2011

This survey covers hard real-time scheduling algorithms and schedulability analysis techniques for homogeneous multiprocessor systems. It reviews the key results in this field from its origins in the late 1960s to the latest research published in late 2009. The survey outlines fundamental results about multiprocessor real-time scheduling that hold independent of the scheduling algorithms employed. It provides a taxonomy of the different scheduling methods, and considers the various performance metrics that can be used for comparison purposes. A detailed review is provided covering partitioned, global, and hybrid scheduling algorithms, approaches to resource sharing, and the latest results from empirical investigations. The survey identifies open issues, key research challenges, and likely productive research directions.
Managing SMT resource usage through speculative instruction window weighting
Authors: Vandierendonck Hans , Seznec André
Published: October 2011

Simultaneous multithreading processors dynamically share processor resources between multiple threads. In general, shared SMT resources may be managed explicitly, for instance, by dynamically setting queue occupation bounds for each thread as in the DCRA and Hill-Climbing policies. Alternatively, resources may be managed implicitly; that is, resource usage is controlled by placing the desired instruction mix in the resources. In this case, the main resource management tool is the instruction fetch policy which must predict the behavior of each thread (branch mispredictions, long-latency loads, etc.) as it fetches instructions.

In this article, we present the use of Speculative Instruction Window Weighting (SIWW) to bridge the gap between implicit and explicit SMT fetch policies. SIWW estimates for each thread the amount of outstanding work in the processor pipeline. Fetch proceeds for the thread with the least amount of work left. SIWW policies are implicit as fetch proceeds for the thread with the least amount of work left. They are also explicit as maximum resource allocation can also be set. SIWW can use and combine virtually any of the indicators that were previously proposed for guiding the instruction fetch policy (number of in-flight instructions, number of low confidence branches, number of predicted cache misses, etc.). Therefore, SIWW is an approach to designing SMT fetch policies, rather than a particular fetch policy.

Targeting fairness or throughput is often contradictory and a SMT scheduling policy often optimizes only one performance metric at the sacrifice of the other metric. Our simulations show that the SIWW fetch policy can achieve at the same time state-of-the-art throughput, state-of-the-art fairness and state-of-the-art harmonic performance mean.
Maintaining performance on power gating of microprocessor functional units by using a predictive pre-wakeup strategy
Authors: Yeh Chang-Ching , Chang Kuei-Chung , Chen Tien-Fu , Yeh Chingwei
Published: October 2011

Power gating is an effective technique for reducing leakage power in deep submicron CMOS technology. Microarchitectural techniques for power gating of functional units have been developed by detecting suitable idle regions and turning them off to reduce leakage energy consumption; however, wakeup of functional units is needed when instructions are ready for execution such that wakeup overhead is naturally incurred. This study presents time-based power gating with reference pre-wakeup (PGRP), a novel predictive strategy that detects suitable idle periods for power gating and then enables pre-wakeup of needed functional units for avoiding wakeup overhead. The key insight is that most wakeups are repeated due to program locality. Thus, the pre-wakeup predictor learns the wakeup events and selects which prior branch instruction can provide early wakeup (wakeup patterns are visible); these information are then used to adequately prepare available functional units for instruction execution. Simulation results with benchmarks from SPEC2000 applications show that substantial leakage energy reduction with negligible performance degradation (0.38% on average) is worthwhile.
DEFCAM
Authors: Lee Hyunjin , Cho Sangyeun , Childers Bruce R.
Published: October 2011

Advances in deep submicron technology call for a careful review of existing cache designs and design practices in terms of yield, area, and performance. This article presents a Design and Evaluation Framework for defect-tolerant Cache Memories (DEFCAM), which enables processor architects to consider yield, area, and performance together in a unified framework. Since there is a complex, changing trade-off among these metrics depending on the technology, the cache organization, and the yield enhancement scheme employed, such a design flow is invaluable to processor architects when they assess a design and explore the design space quickly at an early stage. We develop a complete framework supporting the proposed DEFCAM design flow, from injecting defects into a wafer to evaluating program performance of individual processors on the wafer. Using DEFCAM, interesting interactions between architectural, organizational, and layout/defect related parameters can be easily evaluated. Moreover, we propose practical set remapping schemes to contain hard faults in cache memory. In a set remapping scheme, accesses that would go to an unusable faulty set are directed to a sound set. Case studies are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design flow and developed tools. Experimental results show that a set remapping is the most efficient fault covering method among prevailing strategies.
Peripheral oxytocin suppresses food intake and causes weight loss in diet-induced obese rats
Authors: Morton Gregory J. , Thatcher Brendan S. , Reidelberger Roger D. , Ogimoto Kayoko , Wolden-Hanson Tami , Baskin Denis G. , Schwartz Michael W. , Blevins James E.
Published: October 2011

Growing evidence suggests that oxytocin plays an important role in the regulation of energy balance and that central oxytocin administration induces weight loss in diet-induced obese (DIO) animals. To gain a better understanding of how oxytocin mediates these effects, we examined feeding and neuronal responses to oxytocin in animals rendered obese following exposure to either a high-fat (HFD) or low-fat diet (LFD). Our findings demonstrate that peripheral administration of oxytocin dose-dependently reduces food intake and body weight to a similar extent in rats maintained on either diet. Moreover, the effect of oxytocin to induce weight loss remained intact in leptin receptor-deficient Koletsky ( fa k/ fa k) rats relative to their lean littermates. To determine whether systemically administered oxytocin activates hindbrain areas that regulate meal size, we measured neuronal c-Fos induction in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) and area postrema (AP). We observed a robust neuronal response to oxytocin in these hindbrain areas that was unexpectedly increased in rats rendered obese on a HFD relative to lean, LFD-fed controls. Finally, we report that repeated daily peripheral administration of oxytocin in DIO animals elicited a sustained reduction of food intake and body weight while preventing the reduction of energy expenditure characteristic of weight-reduced animals. These findings extend recent evidence suggesting that oxytocin circumvents leptin resistance and induces weight-loss in DIO animals through a mechanism involving activation of neurons in the NTS and AP, key hindbrain areas for processing satiety-related inputs.
Infrared and Raman Spectroscopic Study of Carbon‐Cobalt Composites
Authors: Tembre André , Hénocque Jacques , Clin Martial
Published: October 2011

Analysis of carbon‐cobalt thin films using infrared spectroscopy has shown existence of carbon‐cobalt stretching mode and great porosity. The Raman spectroscopy and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy have been used in order to investigate the microstructure of the films. These films exhibit complex Raman spectra suggesting the presence of amorphous and crystallized phases. The different fractions of phases and the correlation between the atomic bond structures and the Raman features depend on the cobalt content.
Hypophosphatemic Rickets: Presenting Features of Fanconi—Bickel Syndrome
Authors: Roy Mahua , Bose K. , Paul D. K. , Anand Puja
Published: October 2011

Fanconi-Bickel Syndrome (FBS) is a rare variety of glycogen storage disease (GSD). Characterized by massive hepatomegaly due to glycogen accumulation, severe hypophosphatemic rickets, and marked growth retardation due to proximal renal tubular dysfunction. We report a young boy presented as hypophosphatemic rickets with hepatomegaly and subsequently diagnosed as FBS.
Bimolecular Complementation to Visualize Filovirus VP40-Host Complexes in Live Mammalian Cells: Toward the Identification of Budding Inhibitors
Authors: Liu Yuliang , Lee Michael S. , Olson Mark A. , Harty Ronald N.
Published: October 2011

Virus-host interactions play key roles in promoting efficient egress of many RNA viruses, including Ebola virus (EBOV or “e”) andMarburg virus(MARV or “m”). Late- (L-) domains conserved in viral matrix proteins recruit specific host proteins, such as Tsg101 and Nedd4, to facilitate the budding process. These interactions serve as attractive targets for the development of broad-spectrum budding inhibitors. A major gap still exists in our understanding of the mechanism of filovirus budding due to the difficulty in detecting virus-host complexes and mapping their trafficking patterns in the natural environment of the cell. To address this gap, we used a bimolecular complementation (BiMC) approach to detect, localize, and follow the trafficking patterns of eVP40-Tsg101 complexes in live mammalian cells. In addition, we used the BiMC approach along with a VLP budding assay to test small molecule inhibitors identified byin silicoscreening for their ability to block eVP40 PTAP-mediated interactions with Tsg101 and subsequent budding of eVP40 VLPs. We demonstrated the potential broad spectrum activity of a lead candidate inhibitor by demonstrating its ability to block PTAP-dependent binding of HIV-1 Gag to Tsg101 and subsequent egress of HIV-1 Gag VLPs.
Simulation of Methane Recovery from Gas Hydrates Combined with Storing Carbon Dioxide as Hydrates
Authors: Janicki Georg , Schlüter Stefan , Hennig Torsten , Lyko Hildegard , Deerberg Görge
Published: October 2011

In the medium term, gas hydrate reservoirs in the subsea sediment are intended as deposits for carbon dioxide (CO2) from fossil fuel consumption. This idea is supported by the thermodynamics of CO2 and methane (CH4) hydrates and the fact that CO2 hydrates are more stable than CH4 hydrates in a certain P-T range. The potential of producing methane by depressurization and/or by injecting CO2 is numerically studied in the frame of the SUGAR project. Simulations are performed with the commercial code STARS from CMG and the newly developed code HyReS (hydrate reservoir simulator) especially designed for hydrate processing in the subsea sediment. HyReS is a nonisothermal multiphase Darcy flow model combined with thermodynamics and rate kinetics suitable for gas hydrate calculations. Two scenarios are considered: the depressurization of an area 1,000 m in diameter and a one/two-well scenario with CO2 injection. Realistic rates for injection and production are estimated, and limitations of these processes are discussed.
Equivariance and Generalized Inference in Two‐Sample Location‐Scale Families
Authors: Nkurunziza Sévérien , Chen Fuqi
Published: October 2011

We are interested in‐typical Behrens‐Fisher problem in general location‐scale families. We present a method of constructing generalized pivotal quantity (GPQ) and generalized P value (GPV) for the difference between two location parameters. The suggested method is based on the minimum risk equivariant estimators (MREs), and thus, it is an extension of the methods based on maximum likelihood estimators and conditional inference, which have been, so far, applied to some specific distributions. The efficiency of the procedure is illustrated by Monte Carlo simulation studies. Finally, we apply the proposed method to two real datasets.
On Degenerate Parabolic Equations
Authors: Kbiri Alaoui Mohammed
Published: October 2011

The paper deals with the existence of solutions of some generalized Stefan‐type equation in the framework of Orlicz spaces.
The Sarcomeric Z‐Disc and Z‐Discopathies
Authors: Knöll Ralph , Buyandelger Byambajav , Lab Max
Published: October 2011

The sarcomeric Z‐disc defines the lateral borders of the sarcomere and has primarily been seen as a structure important for mechanical stability. This view has changed dramatically within the last one or two decades. A multitude of novel Z‐disc proteins and their interacting partners have been identified, which has led to the identification of additional functions and which have now been assigned to this structure. This includes its importance for intracellular signalling, for mechanosensation and mechanotransduction in particular, an emerging importance for protein turnover and autophagy, as well as its molecular links to the t‐tubular system and the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Moreover, the discovery of mutations in a wide variety of Z‐disc proteins, which lead to perturbations of several of the above‐mentioned systems, gives rise to a diverse group of diseases which can be termed Z‐discopathies. This paper provides a brief overview of these novel aspects as well as points to future research directions.
Prematurity and Related Biochemical Outcomes: Study of Bone Mineralization and Renal Function Parameters in Preterm Infants
Authors: Chauhan Sarika Singh , Sarkar Purnima Dey , Bhimte Bhawna
Published: October 2011

Preterm is defined as a baby with a gestation of less than 37 completed weeks. In this study, serum calcium, phosphorus, ALP, creatinine, and electrolytes were measured in preterm babies. The present study comprised of 75 preterm babies of which 25 were of 28–30 weeks, 25 were of 30–32 weeks, and remaining 25 were of 34–36 weeks (controls) of gestational age. Serum calcium and phosphorus levels were found to be significantly decreased, and serum ALP, creatinine, and electrolytes were found to be significantly increased () at 28–30 weeks as compared to controls, but serum calcium and phosphorous levels were found to be insignificantly decreased, whereas serum ALP activities were found to be insignificantly increased at 28–30 weeks as compared to 30–32 weeks of gestational age in preterm babies. It can be concluded that high serum ALP activity and low serum calcium and phosphorus levels are associated with preterm babies. A significant difference in the mean values of these renal function parameters was also obtained, except for serum sodium and potassium.
A Contrast of U.S. Metropolitan Demographic Poverty: Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York
Authors: Mogull Robert G.
Published: October 2011

This paper examines and compares U.S. poverty rates on two levels, with data obtained from the decennial censuses of 1960 through 2000. First, rates of poverty for five demographic groups are contrasted within each of the three most populous metropolises of the nation—Chicago, Los Angeles/Long Beach, and New York. Second, rates for each demographic group are contrasted among the three metropolises. The statistical evidence reveals both large differences among the individual demographic groups and also in the trends among the three most populous American cities.
Small Bowel Cocoon: A Distinct Disease with a New Developmental Etiology
Authors: Bassiouny Ibrahim E. , Abbas Tariq O.
Published: October 2011

We have treated two patients with small bowel (abdominal) cocoon who presented with acute and partial small bowel obstruction associated with an abdominal mass. Neither had a history of previous surgery, peritonitis, or prolonged drug therapy. The distinct features of this disease are illustrated. A developmental etiology and a new nomenclature for this disease are proposed, along with a review of the literature.
Reduced Chemical Kinetic Model for Titan Entries
Authors: Savajano Romain , Sobbia Raffaello , Gaffuri Michele , Leyland Pénélope
Published: October 2011

A reduced chemical kinetic model for Titan′s atmosphere has been developed. This new model with 18 species and 28 reactions includes the mainfeatures of a more complete scheme, respecting the radiative fluxes. It has been verified against three key elements: a sensitivity analysis, the equilibrium chemical composition using shock tube simulations in CHEMKIN, and the results of computational fluid dynamics (CFDs) simulations.
Histopathological Evaluation of Behçet's Disease and Identification of New Skin Lesions
Authors: Gündüz Özgür
Published: October 2011

Behçet's disease (BD) is a multisystemic, relapsing inflammatory disorder with an obscure etiology and pathogenesis. Diagnosis depends on the clinician's ability to identify a group of nonspecific mucocutaneous lesions, which also manifest in a number of other diseases. In recent years, there has been an increase in the studies focusing on the histopathological aspects of Behçet's disease diagnostic mucocutaneous lesions. Their results emphasize the value of histopathology and direct immunofluorescence (DIF) in the differential diagnosis of Behçet's disease.
CYP2E1 Sensitizes the Liver to LPS- and TNFα-Induced Toxicity via Elevated Oxidative and Nitrosative Stress and Activation of ASK-1 and JNK Mitogen-Activated Kinases
Authors: Cederbaum Arthur I. , Yang Lili , Wang Xiaodong , Wu Defeng
Published: October 2011

The mechanisms by which alcohol causes cell injury are not clear. A major mechanism is the role of lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in alcohol toxicity. Many pathways have been suggested to play a role in how alcohol induces oxidative stress. Considerable attention has been given to alcohol elevated production of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and TNFαand to alcohol induction of CYP2E1. These two pathways are not exclusive of each other; however, interactions between them, have not been extensively evaluated. Increased oxidative stress from induction of CYP2E1 sensitizes hepatocytes to LPS and TNFαtoxicity and oxidants, activation of inducible nitric oxide synthase and p38 and JNK MAP kinases, and mitochondrial dysfunction are downstream mediators of this CYP2E1-LPS/TNFα-potentiated hepatotoxicity. This paper will summarize studies showing potentiated interactions between these two risk factors in promoting liver injury and the mechanisms involved including activation of the mitogen-activated kinase kinase kinase ASK-1. Decreasing either cytosolic or mitochondrial thioredoxin in HepG2 cells expressing CYP2E1 causes loss of cell viability and elevated oxidative stress via an ASK-1/JNK-dependent mechanism. We hypothesize that similar interactions occur as a result of ethanol induction of CYP2E1 and TNFα.
Ion-6: A Positionless Self-Deploying Method for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Huang Shih-Chang
Published: October 2011

Sensor networks are deployed to monitor the interested area. Maximizing the sensing coverage depends on effectively determining the locations of sensors. In this paper, a self-deploying method named as Ion-6 is proposed. Sensors are modeled as ions, and the links between them are treated as ionic bonds. When the number of ionic bonds of a sensor is full, the sensor will expel others out of its field. Sensors organize themselves as the hexagonal format to maximize the network's coverage area, retain the network connectivity, and prevent from introducing the coverage holes. The sensors in the proposed method can compute their moving directions and distances independently without priori position information. Simulation results show that Ion-6 can organize sensors as the hexagonal format to maximize the coverage area. The deploying time of Ion-6 is less than the molecule model and efficiently eliminates the unnecessary movements of the virtual force (V-force) method.
Lactoferrin–Endothelin-1 Axis Contributes to the Development and Invasiveness of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Phenotypes
Authors: Ha Ngoc-Han , Nair Vasudha S. , Reddy Divijendra Natha Sirigiri , Mudvari Prakriti , Ohshiro Kazufumi , Ghanta Krishna Sumanth , Pakala Suresh B. , Li Da-Qiang , Costa Luis , Lipton Allan , Badwe Rajendra A. , Fuqua Suzanne , Wallon Margaretha , Prendergast George C. , Kumar Rakesh
Published: October 2011

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by the lack of expression of estrogen receptor-α (ER-α), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER-2). However, pathways responsible for downregulation of therapeutic receptors, as well as subsequent aggressiveness, remain unknown. In this study, we discovered that lactoferrin (Lf) efficiently downregulates levels of ER-α, PR, and HER-2 in a proteasome-dependent manner in breast cancer cells, and it accounts for the loss of responsiveness to ER- or HER-2–targeted therapies. Furthermore, we found that lactoferrin increases migration and invasiveness of both non-TNBC and TNBC cell lines. We discovered that lactoferrin directly stimulates the transcription of endothelin-1 (ET-1), a secreted proinvasive polypeptide that acts through a specific receptor, ET(A)R, leading to secretion of the bioactive ET-1 peptide. Interestingly, a therapeutic ET-1 receptor-antagonist blocked lactoferrin-dependent motility and invasiveness of breast cancer cells. The physiologic significance of this newly discovered Lf–ET-1 axis in the manifestation of TNBC phenotypes is revealed by elevated plasma and tissue lactoferrin and ET-1 levels in patients with TNBC compared with those in ER+ cases. These findings describe the first physiologically relevant polypeptide as a functional determinant in downregulating all three therapeutic receptors in breast cancer, which uses another secreted ET-1 system to confer invasiveness. Results presented in this article provide proof-of-principle evidence in support of the therapeutic effectiveness of ET-1 receptor antagonist to completely block the lactoferrin-induced motility and invasiveness of the TNBC as well as non-TNBC cells, and thus, open a remarkable opportunity to treat TNBC by targeting the Lf–ET-1 axis using an approved developmental drug. Cancer Res; 71(23); 7259–69. ©2011 AACR.
Androgen Receptor and Nutrient Signaling Pathways Coordinate the Demand for Increased Amino Acid Transport during Prostate Cancer Progression
Authors: Wang Qian , Bailey Charles G. , Ng Cynthia , Tiffen Jessamy , Thoeng Annora , Minhas Vineet , Lehman Melanie L. , Hendy Stephen C. , Buchanan Grant , Nelson Colleen C. , Rasko John E.J. , Holst Jeff
Published: October 2011

l-Type amino acid transporters such as LAT1 and LAT3 mediate the uptake of essential amino acids. Here, we report that prostate cancer cells coordinate the expression of LAT1 and LAT3 to maintain sufficient levels of leucine needed for mTORC1 signaling and cell growth. Inhibiting LAT function was sufficient to decrease cell growth and mTORC1 signaling in prostate cancer cells. These cells maintained levels of amino acid influx through androgen receptor–mediated regulation of LAT3 expression and ATF4 regulation of LAT1 expression after amino acid deprivation. These responses remained intact in primary prostate cancer, as indicated by high levels of LAT3 in primary disease, and by increased levels of LAT1 after hormone ablation and in metastatic lesions. Taken together, our results show how prostate cancer cells respond to demands for increased essential amino acids by coordinately activating amino acid transporter pathways vital for tumor outgrowth. Cancer Res; 71(24); 7525–36. ©2011 AACR.
CSF Shunt Complications in Infants – An Experience from Pakistan
Authors: Bakhsh Ahmed
Published: October 2011

Aims and Objective: The main aim of the study was to find out the postoperative complications and long-term outcome of cerebrospinal fluid-shunted patients in an infantile age group with a poor socioeconomic background. Material and Methods: A prospective study of 100 cases of infantile hydrocephalus was conducted at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan. All selected patients suffering from congenital and post-meningitic hydrocephalus were operated on for ventriculoperitoneal shunt. However, cases of hydrocephalus secondary to myelomeningocele were not included. Patients were followed postoperatively for 2 years. Prior consent for surgery was taken from all parents and the study was approved by the hospital’s academic and ethical council. Results: The majority of patients were brought quite late to the medical facilities because of social taboos and socioeconomic conditions. Early signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus were either ignored or misunderstood. Shunt infection and shunt failure rates remained at 14 and 10%, respectively. 50% of shunt blocks occurred in the first postoperative year and another 50% within 2 years. The highest percentage (40–45%) of death occurred in patients suffering from congenital hydrocephalus, in the first postoperative year. Conclusions: This study concluded that the outcome and prognosis of shunted infantile hydrocephalus in developing countries is suboptimal due to different socioeconomic conditions. However, under such circumstances, careful selection of patients, timely intervention and adherence to meticulous aseptic surgical techniques can alter the prognosis of cerebrospinal fluid-shunted infants.
The Effects of Corneal Endothelium on Graft Survival in a Murine Model of Lamellar Keratoplasty
Authors: Huang Ting , Lee Ellen J. , Planck Stephen R. , Rosenbaum James T.
Published: October 2011

Purpose: Here we investigate the role of donor endothelium on allograft rejection in a lamellar keratoplasty (LK) model using grafts with or without donor endothelium. Methods: Corneal buttons of donor C57BL/6 mice (2.0 mm) were transplanted to lamellar recipient beds (1.5 mm) in BALB/c mice. Two variations of the LK procedure were performed: (1) standard LK (SLK) (n = 13) without donor endothelium and (2) modified LK (MLK) (n = 14) with retained donor endothelium. The graft status was assessed by slit lamp biomicroscopy and scored for stromal opacity, corneal edema, neovascularization, and anterior chamber reaction up to 46 days post-transplantation. Corneas were also observed histologically. Results: The presence of a grafted corneal endothelium promoted graft rejection; 92.9% (13/14) of grafts were rejected in MLK after an average of 8.3 days, while 69.2% (9/13) of grafts were rejected in SLK on average 10.8 days after transplantation. The former’s stromal opacity was significantly greater at all time points after day 14 except for day 21 (p = 0.77) and day 32 (p = 0.25). Corneal edema was significantly greater in the former at all time points after day 10 except for day 21 (p = 0.16). Neovascularization was significantly greater in the former at all time points after day 10 except for day 25 (p = 0.22). Conclusion: Variations of this model of LK may be useful for studies of immunological mechanisms in corneal transplantation. The donor corneal endothelium may serve as a target of the immune response which promotes inflammation, neovascularization, and graft rejection.
Laser Lead Extraction in the Octogenarian Patient
Authors: Rodriguez Yasser , Garisto Juan D. , Carrillo Roger G.
Published: October 2011

Background—

In the United States, patients aged >75 years are the most rapidly growing segment in the population, with an expected increase of 126% by 2050. These patients account for >70% of the pacemakers and up to two thirds of the implantable cardioverter-defibrillators implanted annually. Our aim was to explore the clinical outcomes of device complications in the octogenarian population.

Methods and Results—

We performed a retrospective chart review of 506 patients undergoing laser lead extraction from January 2004 to September 2009. This population was divided into the following 2 groups based solely on age: octogenarians and nonoctogenarians. These 2 groups were compared on the basis of several characteristics and clinical outcomes. There were 118 patients in the octogenarian group (78 men) and 388 in the nonoctogenarians group (301 men) aged 85±3.8 and 64.2±12.4 years, respectively. A total of 253 leads (atrial, 99; ventricular, 145; coronary sinus, 9) were removed from the patients in the octogenarian group, and 814 leads (atrial, 295; ventricular, 442; coronary sinus, 77) were removed from the patients in the nonoctogenarian group. The main indication for extraction for both groups was infection. The lead implant duration was 59.6±52.8 and 38.6±43.9 months for octogenarians and nonoctogenarians, respectively. There was no significant difference with respect to the proportion of minor (
P
=0.65), major (
P
=0.56), and total (
P
=0.50) complications.

Conclusions—

Laser lead extraction is demonstrated to be a safe and effective treatment method in octogenarian patients with multiple comorbidities.
Antithrombotic Therapy in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Coronary Stenting
Authors: Faxon David P. , Eikelboom John W. , Berger Peter B. , Holmes David R. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Moliterno David J. , Becker Richard C. , Angiolillo Dominick J.
Published: October 2011

The optimal regimen of the anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies in patients with atrial fibrillation who have had a coronary stent is unclear. It is well recognized that “triple therapy” with aspirin, clopidogrel, and warfarin is associated with an increased risk of bleeding. National guidelines have not made specific recommendations, given the lack of adequate data. In choosing the best antithrombotic options for a patient, consideration needs to be given to the risks of stroke, stent thrombosis, and major bleeding. This executive summary describes these risks, provides specific recommendations concerning vascular access, stent choice, concomitant use of proton pump inhibitors, and the use and duration of triple therapy after stent placement, based on the risk assessment.
Long-Term Dipeptidyl-Peptidase 4 Inhibition Reduces Atherosclerosis and Inflammation via Effects on Monocyte Recruitment and Chemotaxis
Authors: Shah Zubair , Kampfrath Thomas , Deiuliis Jeffrey A. , Zhong Jixin , Pineda Colleen , Ying Zhekang , Xu Xiaohua , Lu Bo , Moffatt-Bruce Susan , Durairaj Rekha , Sun Qinghua , Mihai Georgeta , Maiseyeu Andrei , Rajagopalan Sanjay
Published: October 2011

Background—

Dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors are increasingly used to accomplish glycemic targets in patients with type II diabetes mellitus. Because DPP-4 is expressed in inflammatory cells, we hypothesized that its inhibition will exert favorable effects in atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

Male LDLR
−/−
mice (6 weeks) were fed a high-fat diet or normal chow diet for 4 weeks and then randomized to vehicle or alogliptin, a high-affinity DPP-4 inhibitor (40 mg · kg
−1
· d
−1
), for 12 weeks. Metabolic parameters, blood pressure, vascular function, atherosclerosis burden, and indexes of inflammation were obtained in target tissues, including the vasculature, adipose, and bone marrow, with assessment of global and cell-specific inflammatory pathways. In vitro and in vivo assays of DPP-4 inhibition (DPP-4i) on monocyte activation/migration were conducted in both human and murine cells and in a short-term ApoE
−/−
mouse model. DPP-4i improved markers of insulin resistance and reduced blood pressure. DPP-4i reduced visceral adipose tissue macrophage content (adipose tissue macrophages; CD11b
+
, CD11c
+
, Ly6C
hi
) concomitant with upregulation of CD163. DPP-4 was highly expressed in bone marrow–derived CD11b
+
cells, with DPP-4i downregulating proinflammatory genes in these cells. DPP-4i decreased aortic plaque with a striking reduction in plaque macrophages. DPP-4i prevented monocyte migration and actin polymerization in in vitro assays via Rac-dependent mechanisms and prevented in vivo migration of labeled monocytes to the aorta in response to exogenous tumor necrosis factor-α and DPP-4.

Conclusion—

DPP-4i exerts antiatherosclerotic effects and reduces inflammation via inhibition of monocyte activation/chemotaxis. These findings have important implications for the use of this class of drugs in atherosclerosis.
Forest Tenure and Multi-level Governance in Avoiding Deforestation under REDD+
Authors: Doherty Emma , Schroeder Heike
Published: October 2011

This paper investigates the role of forest tenure in creating a sustainable and effective mechanism on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+). It draws together existing knowledge and experience of forest tenure issues as they play out in real contexts, and evaluates their implications for REDD+. In particular, it challenges the argument that simply harmonising different tenure systems will lead to improved tenure security and ensure that REDD+ does not disenfranchise local communities. By bringing to light the ways in which local tenure could shape the implementation of REDD+, this paper provides insights that can contribute to the design of a sustainable, effective and equitable REDD+ agreement. The findings suggest that a more nuanced and locally specific understanding of tenure security and ownership are required in order to create favourable grounds for REDD+ implementation.
Interaction Management by Partnerships: The Case of Biodiversity and Climate Change
Authors: Visseren-Hamakers Ingrid J. , Arts Bas , Glasbergen Pieter
Published: October 2011

This article examines the contributions that partnerships make to interaction management. Our conceptualization of interaction management builds on earlier contributions to the literature on regimes and governance. The article focuses on the interactions among the biodiversity and climate change governance systems, since these systems interact intensively on the issues of biofuels and forests (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation—REDD+). The article shows that seven partnerships actively manage the interactions by fulfilling several critical interaction management functions. Their main contributions include creating markets for sustainable biofuels through the development of certification standards and creating markets for “multiple benefit” REDD+. Although the partnerships improve interactions on case-by-case bases, they fail to fundamentally improve existing interactions between the biodiversity and climate change governance systems. Improved meta-governance and public-private interplay are necessary for more effective interaction management and, more generally, the effective governance of sustainable development.
Local Actions, Global Impacts: International Cooperation and the CDM
Authors: Dinar Ariel , Rahman Shaikh Mahfuzur , Larson Donald F. , Ambrosi Philippe
Published: October 2011

We examine the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) market as form of cooperative involvement between developing-host and developed-investor countries, likely to evolve into a form of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) with opportunities for further collaboration. We use three variables to measure the level of cooperation, namely number of joint CDM projects, volume of CO2 abatement realized from the CDM projects, and volume of investment in the CDM projects. We rely on international economics and international relations literature to suggest that the levels of economic development and institutional development, energy structures of the economies, country vulnerability to various climate change effects, political constraints, trade, and historic relations between the host and investor countries are good predictors of the level of cooperation in CDM projects. The main policy relevant conclusions include the importance of simplifying the CDM project regulation/clearance cycle as an essential policy option for further growth of joint CDM projects; improving governance structures in the host and investor countries that would lead to higher political stability and trust between the countries for business, including CDM; and strengthening trade or other long-term economic activities that connect the countries for fostering CDM cooperation.
Long-Term Impact of Multifactorial Treatment on New-Onset Diabetes and Related Cardiovascular Events in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Athyros Vassilios G. , Elisaf Moses S. , Alexandrides Theodore , Achimastos Apostolos , Ganotakis Emmanouel , Bilianou Eleni , Karagiannis Asterios , Liberopoulos Evangelos N. , Tziomalos Konstantinos , Mikhailidis Dimitri P. ,   for the Assessing the Treatment Effect in Metabolic Syndrome Without Perceptible Diabetes (ATTEMPT) Collaborative Group
Published: October 2011

This post hoc analysis of the Assessing The Treatment Effect in Metabolic Syndrome Without Perceptible diabeTes (ATTEMPT) study assesses the 3½ year incidence of new-onset diabetes (NOD) and related cardiovascular disease (CVD) events in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS), after multifactorial (lifestyle and drug, including atorvastatin) intervention. Patients were randomized to group A (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C] target <100 mg/dL) and group B (<130 mg/dL). The incidence of NOD during the 42-month follow-up was very low, 0.83 to 1.00/100 patient-years in patients with MetS and MetS with impaired fasting glucose, respectively. Older age, increased waist circumference, and persistent MetS were determinants of NOD. One CVD nonfatal event occurred in the 28 patients with NOD. Our findings suggest that treating the characteristics of MetS is achievable and beneficial. New-onset diabetes incidence and CVD events were negligible and not different from what is expected in the general population.
Serum Uric Acid
Authors: Zhang Zhengyun , Bian Luqin , Choi Yoonho
Published: October 2011

Serum uric acid (SUA) is a potential risk factor for atherosclerosis. We assessed the relationship between SUA and subclinical atherosclerosis in Korean men (n = 3010). Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) and ultrasonographic measurements of coronary artery calcification (CAC) and carotid intima–media thickness (cIMT), respectively, are markers of subclinical atherosclerosis. Odds ratios (ORs) of CAC score and cIMT across SUA levels were 1.101 ( P = .046) and 1.266 ( P = .002), respectively, after adjustment for several variables. The independent association between CAC and cIMT was observed (OR = 1.231, P < .001). Serum uric acid was independently associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS) with an OR of 1.415 ( P < .001). Metabolic syndrome was only independently associated with cIMT, with an OR of 2.103 ( P = .003). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein was positively correlated with SUA ( r = .125, P < .001). Serum uric acid level is independently associated with CAC, cIMT, and MetS in Korean men.
High School Soccer Players With Concussion Education Are More Likely to Notify Their Coach of a Suspected Concussion
Authors: Bramley Harry , Patrick Katherine , Lehman Erik , Silvis Matthew
Published: October 2011

Previously published studies have found that concussion symptoms are underreported in youth athletics. This study evaluated the likelihood high school soccer players would identify themselves as having concussion related symptoms during game situations. A questionnaire inquiring about past concussion education and the likelihood of notifying their coach of concussion symptoms was administered to 183 high school soccer players. Of the 60 (33%) who completed the survey, 18 (72%) athletes who had acknowledged receiving concussion training responded that they would always notify their coach of concussion symptoms, as compared with 12 (36%) of the players who reported having no such training ( P = .01). The results of this study suggest that athletes with past concussion training are more likely to notify their coach of concussion symptoms, potentially reducing their risk for further injury. Concussion education should be considered for all high school soccer players.
Demographic and behavioral determinants of self-reported history of sexually-transmitted diseases (STDs) among young migrant men who have sex with men (MSM) in Beijing, China
Authors: Song Yan , Li Xiaoming , Zhang Liying , Liu Yingjie , Jiang Shulin , Stanton Bonita
Published: October 2011

Background:

Sexually-transmitted disease (STD) is a facilitating cofactor that contributes to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission. Previous studies indicated a high prevalence of STDs among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. To date, limited data are available for correlates of STD infection among young migrant MSM in China. The current study intends to examine the association between demographic and behavioral factors and STD infection.

Methods:

Data were collected from a sample of 307 migrant MSM aged 18–29 years in Beijing in 2009. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to examine the factors associated with a history of STDs.

Results:

Results showed that about 13% of MSM reported a history of STDs. The average number of lifetime sexual partners was 15.0. About 56.7% of MSM did not use a condom at the first sexual encounter. The percentage of MSM who used a condom consistently was 47.4%. Multivariate logistic regression results showed that STD history was positively associated with education, income, the number of lifetime male sexual partners, and negatively associated with the frequency of properly using a condom.

Conclusion:

STD history was associated with socioeconomic status and sexual risk behaviors. The results suggested that HIV prevention intervention programs need to educate MSM to reduce the number of sexual partners and to use a condom properly. Furthermore, HIV prevention intervention programs among MSM need to be tailored to meet the needs of different socioeconomic groups of MSM.
Polyvinylbutyral-assisted synthesis and characterization of mesoporous silica nanofibers by electrospinning route
Authors: Chuang Yu-Ju , Liao Jiunn-Der , Chen Lin-Jer
Published: October 2011

In this study, mesoporous silica nanofibers were synthesized from tetraethylorthosilicate in a mixture of ethanol, hydrochloric acid, water and polyvinylbutyral PVB as precursor, via a simple sol–gel and electrospinning route. Hexagonal silica nanofibers were obtained by annealing treatment at 850°C for 12 h. The morphology, crystal structure, and particle size of fibers have been characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analyzer, energy-dispersive spectrometer, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform–infrared spectrometer. The pore structures were characterized by the N2 absorption–desorption isotherm.
Design and performance of multifunctional structural composite capacitors
Authors: O'Brien D. J. , Baechle D. M. , Wetzel E. D.
Published: October 2011

Dielectric capacitors with mechanical load-bearing capability have been constructed by laminating glass-epoxy prepregs with metalized film electrodes. Mechanical characterization and high-voltage testing are used to quantify the elastic modulus, mechanical strength, and dielectric energy density of these structural devices. An approach for predicting mass savings in systems utilizing multifunctional material structures is also presented. The experimental results show that, in spite of increases in void content with fiber volume fraction, overall structural capacitor performance is greatest at maximum fiber volume fraction. At these high-fiber volume fractions, the overall multifunctional performance of the structural capacitors is predicted to provide mass and volume savings over conventional designs.
Metal mesh heating element size effect in resistance welding of thermoplastic composites
Authors: Dubé Martine , Hubert Pascal , Gallet Jan NAH , Stavrov Darko , Bersee Harald EN , Yousefpour Ali
Published: October 2011

The objective of this work is to determine the effects of metal mesh heating element size on resistance welding of thermoplastic composites. The materials to be resistance-welded consisted of carbon fiber/poly-ether-ketone-ketone (CF/PEKK), carbon fiber/poly-ether-imide (CF/PEI) and glass fiber/PEI (GF/PEI). Four different metal mesh sizes were used as heating elements. The samples were welded in a lap shear joint configuration and mechanically tested. Maximum Lap Shear Strengths of 52, 47 and 33 MPa were obtained for the CF/PEKK, CF/PEI and GF/PEI specimens, respectively. The ratio of the heating element’s fraction of open area and wire diameter was shown to be the most important parameter to be considered when selecting an appropriate heating element size.