bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship of Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in First Second (FEV1)and FEV1/FVC% with Plasma Progesterone Level during Different Phases of Normal Menstrual Cycle
Authors: Mannan Sultana Rokeya , Begum Noorzahan , Begum Shelina , Ferdousi Sultana , Ali Taskina
Published: January 2009

The present study was carried out to observe the correlation of some lung function parameters with the endogenous plasma progesterone level during different phases of menstrual cycle. The study was conducted on 30 healthy young female volunteers with age range of 20-25 years in the department of Physiology of BSMMU, Dhaka, during July 2005- June 2006. All the subjects were studied in 3 phases of menstrual cycle for 2 consecutive cycles. FVC, FEV1 , FEV1/FVC% for assessing lung function and plasma Progesterone level during each phase of menstrual cycle were measured by a portable spirometer and by ELIZA method in auto analyzer respectively. Comparison of the values between different phases were done by paired ât' test considering menstrual phase data as baseline due to negligible amount of progesterone detected in this phase. Correlation of FVC , FEV1 and FEV1/FVC%with Progesterone level in each 3 phases were analyzed by Pearson's correlation- coefficient test. Plasma progesterone level was much higher during luteal phase compared to those of follicular phases of both cycles (24.54ng/ml vs1.41 ng/ml; 26.56 ng/ml vs. 1.48 ng/ml). Both FVC and FEV1 were significantly higher (p<0.001) during luteal phase than those of follicular phases in both the cycles. FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC%were positively correlated with plasma progesterone level but these relationships had failed to show any statistical significance. Similar to others, this study also observed increased ventilation and high endogenous progesterone level during luteal phase. Therefore increased ventilation might be related to high progesterone level during luteal phase owing to increased inspiratory muscle endurance and bronchial relaxation effect. Key words: Plasma Progesterone; Forced Vital Capacity; Forced Expiratory Volume; Menstrual cycle. DOI:10.3329/jbsp.v2i0.976 J Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2007 Dec;(2): 7-12.
Uniform Requirements for Manuscripts Submitted to Biomedical Journals: Writing and Editing for Biomedical Publication Updated October 2007
Authors: ICMJE The
Published: January 2009

Bangladesh Society of Physiologist (BSP) publishing this Uniform Requirements for Manuscripts Submitted to Biomedical Journals: Writing and Editing for Biomedical Publication - Updated October 2007 as a special article on good faith; as the ICMJE welcomes any organizations to reprint this document for non-profit educational purposes only.   DOI:10.3329/jbsp.v2i0.987 J Bangladesh Soc Physiol. 2007 Dec;(2): 60-88.
Formulation Development and In Vitro Evaluation of Metformin Hydrochloride Matrix Tablets Based on Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose
Authors: Kabir Abul Kalam Lutful , Jeseem Tasbira , Jahangir Rumana , Rahman DM Mizanur , Rouf Abu Shara Shamsur
Published: January 2009

An attempt was to formulate the oral sustained release Metformin hydrochloride matrix tablets by using hydroxyl methyl cellulose polymer (HPMC) as rate controlling factor and to evaluate drug release parameters as per various release kinetic models. The tablets were prepared by direct compression method. The granules were evaluated for angle of repose, loose bulk density, tapped bulk density, compressibility index, total porosity, drug content etc. and showed satisfactory results. The tablets were subjected to thickness, weight variation test, drug content, hardness, friability and in vitro release studies. The in vitro dissolution study was carried out for 8 hours using United States Pharmacopoeia USP 2 (paddle-type dissolution apparatus) in phosphate buffer (pH 7.4) as dissolution media. All the tablet formulations showed acceptable pharmacotechnical properties and complied with pharmacopoeial specifications. The release mechanisms were explored and explained with zero order, first order, Higuchi, Korsmeyer and Hixson-Crowell equations. The results indicated that a decrease in release kinetics of the drug was observed by increasing the polymer concentration. Kinetic modeling of in vitro dissolution profiles revealed the drug release mechanism ranges from diffusion controlled or Fickian transport to anomalous type or non-Fickian transport, which was only dependent on the type and amount of polymer used. The drug release followed both diffusion and erosion mechanism in all cases. Besides, this study explored both of the optimum concentration and the effect of polymer on drug release pattern from the tablet matrix for 8 hours period. Key Words: Metformin HCl, Sustained release, Hydrophilic matrix, HPMC, Direct compression Â  doi:10.3329/sjps.v1i1.1808 S. J. Pharm. Sci. 1(1&2): 51-56
Events that have become central to identity: Gender differences in the centrality of events scale for positive and negative events
Authors: Boals Adriel
Published: January 2009

Past research has demonstrated that the extent to which a negative event has become central to one's identity using the centrality of events scale (CES) is associated with depression, dissociation and PTSD symptoms. The combined results from two studies that collectively examined nominated negative and positive personal events and the 2004 Presidential election found that females are more likely than males to construct a negative event as central to their identity. In addition, higher CES scores for a negative event were associated with higher ratings of vividness, emotional intensity, visceral emotional reactions, depression, dissociation, PTSD symptoms and worse physical health outcomes. In contrast, CES scores for positive events were not related to the measures of mental or physical health, although this finding was ambiguous in Study 2. The tendency for females to construct a negative event as central to their identity may help explain gender differences in mental health outcomes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of a cell sheet–polymer film complex with temperature sensitivity for increased mechanical strength and cell alignment capability
Authors: Fujita Hideaki , Shimizu Kazunori , Nagamori Eiji
Published: January 2009

We have succeeded in fabricating a cell sheet–polymer film complex involving a temperature‐sensitive polymer that has enough mechanical strength that can be manipulated even by forceps. The polymer film can be removed by lowering the temperature after transplantation, demonstrating its potential use in regenerative medicine. Recently, tissue engineering involving cell sheets was developed, tissues being fabricated by layering of these cell sheets. This technique promises high density cell packing, which is important for native cell functions, and successful heart therapy using cardiac cell sheets has been reported. On the other hand, the fabrication of a large tissue using cell sheets is difficult because of fragility of the cell sheets. Here, we have developed a novel method in which cells are attached to a temperature‐sensitive poly‐N‐isopropylacrylamide film mixed with laminin and collagen IV, and report that the cell sheet–polymer film complex can be manipulated with forceps. A cell sheet can be removed from the polymer film by lowering the temperature after the manipulation. We have utilized this technique for the primary myocardium and fabricated a physiologically active multi‐layered cardiac cell sheet. By applying a micropattern to this polymer film, we have succeeded in making a skeletal muscle cell sheet in which myotubes are oriented in the desired direction. Overall, we showed that this method is useful for cell sheet manipulation, morphogenesis, and transplantation. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;103: 370–377. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The use of benzodiazpines and related drugs amongst older people in Sweden: Associated factors and concomitant use of other psychotropics
Authors: Johnell Kristina , Fastbom Johan
Published: January 2009

Objective

To determine the factors associated with use of benzodiazepines and benzodiazepine related drugs (BZDs/BZDRDs) in a nationwide population of older people.

Methods

We analyzed data on age, sex, type of residential area (urban/rural), and dispensed drugs for people aged ≥ 75 years registered in the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register from October to December 2005 (n = 731 105; corresponds to 91% of the domain population). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used for analyzing whether age, sex, type of residential area, number of other drugs, and concomitant psychotropic drug use was associated with use of BZDs/BZDRDs.

Results

≥1 BZDs/BZDRDs and ≥2 BZDs/BZDRDs were used by 25% and 5% of the study population, respectively. The most commonly used BZDs/BZDRDs were zopiclone, zolpidem, oxazepam, flunitrazepam, and diazepam. The probability of use BZDs/BZDRDs increased with age, female gender, living in an urban area, use of many other drugs, and concomitant use of other psychotropics, particularly antidepressants. In the comparisons of different BZDs/BZDRDs (n = 179 632), the medium‐acting BZDs were associated with higher age, female gender, and use of other psychotropics, whereas BZDRDs showed the opposite pattern. Also, the two BZDRDs zopiclone and zolpidem showed different patterns regarding age, sex, and use of other drugs.

Conclusions

One in four of the elderly used one or more BZD/BZDRD, which should be prescribed cautiously and with the recognition of the potentially negative effects. There were differences in patterns of use for different BZDs/BZDRDs, even within the same drug class. Hence, large study populations are needed for future research of individual BZDs/BZDRDs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parkinson's disease and suicide: a profile of suicide victims with Parkinson's disease in a population‐based study during the years 1988–2002 in Northern Finland
Authors: Mainio Arja , Karvonen Kaisa , Hakko Helinä , Särkioja Terttu , Räsänen Pirkko
Published: January 2009

Objective

We studied the prevalence of hospital‐treated Parkinson's disease (PD) among suicide victims and the profile of these persons, taking into account suicide attempts, timing of depression and comorbid somatic diseases.

Methods

The database of this study consisted of suicide victims aged 50 years of age or older (n = 555) during a fourteen‐year period in the province of Oulu in Northern Finland.

Results

Hospital‐treated Parkinson's disease occurred in 1.6% of the subjects, indicating a rather low prevalence of suicide in this group of patients. The persons with PD had attempted suicide earlier in 44% of the cases, while the corresponding percentage for other victims in older age was 9.9% (p = 0.009 Fischer exact test).

Conclusions

Based on the case characteristics of our study the profile of PD person who completed suicide was as follows: male subject with recently diagnosed disease, living in rural area, having multiple physical illnesses, and having attempted suicide earlier. Psychiatric consultation is thus highly recommended for the PD patients with this disease profile. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lyophilisation improves the extraction of PCR‐quality community DNA from pig faecal samples
Authors: Ruiz Raquel , Rubio Luis A
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND: Faeces are increasingly used as sources of DNA for genetic and ecological studies. Although multiple methods to preserve faecal samples prior to DNA extraction have been used (e.g., 70% or absolute ethanol, freezing at −20 °C or in liquid nitrogen) no information is at present available in the literature on the use of lyophilised faeces. Accordingly, the yield and quality of the community DNA obtained by using four different commercial DNA extraction kits (QIAamp DNA Stool Mini Kit, REALPURE Spin Kit, SPEEDTOOLS Tissue DNA Extraction Kit, and JETQUICK Tissue DNA Spin Kit) from fresh and lyophilised samples of faeces were studied here.

RESULTS: The use of lyophilised faeces resulted in a 1.5‐ to 2‐fold increase in DNA recovery relative to the use of fresh faeces regardless of the kit used. Among the four kits tested, the best results were obtained with the QIAamp DNA Stool Mini Kit. Community DNA obtained from lyophilised faeces also provided the best restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) profiles, which should guarantee a better representation of the microbial diversity present in faecal samples.

CONCLUSION: As compared with using fresh faecal samples for pig faecal microbiota studies, lyophilisation improved both DNA yield and quality of the information arising from the PCR–RFLP method of analysis. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of salting processes on chemical composition, textural properties and microstructure of duck egg
Authors: Kaewmanee Thammarat , Benjakul Soottawat , Visessanguan Wonnop
Published: January 2009

BACKGROUND: Salted eggs have been produced in Thailand and consumed nationwide. Salted egg can be made by brining eggs in saturated saline or by coating the egg with soil paste mixed with salt. The achievement of salting is generally indicated by the textural development of egg yolk. Yolk property is therefore a prime factor governing consumer acceptability and market demand. The objective of this study was to determine chemical composition, textural properties and microstructure of duck egg obtained from the coating and immersing methods at different salting times.

RESULTS: Decreases in moisture content with coincidental increases in salt content in both egg white and yolk were observed during salting, regardless of salting process. However, no difference in salt content was noticeable in yolks (P > 0.05). The paste coating method tended to yield greater oil exudation of egg yolk than the immersing method. Maximum transition temperature (Tmax) of egg proteins and thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substance (TBARS) value in yolk increased with increasing salting time. A similar hardening ratio of yolk was observed in both processes. Higher hardness and adhesiveness were found in yolk with the paste coating method, whereas greater fracturability, springiness, gumminess and chewiness were observed with the immersing method. Nevertheless, both processes rendered the yolk with similar cohesiveness. Yolk granules were aligned closely when salting proceeded, irrespective of salting process.

CONCLUSION: Dehydration and release of lipids in egg yolk increased with increasing salting time and were more pronounced with the paste coating method. Therefore salting processes affected the properties of salted eggs. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
A dual‐sequence framework for B2C relationship formation: Moderating effects of employee communication style in online group chat
Authors: Dabholkar Pratibha A. , van Dolen Willemijn M. , de Ruyter Ko
Published: January 2009

Past research on B2C relationships has typically focused on unidimensional constructs of satisfaction, trust, and commitment, ignoring underlying psychological dimensions. Although some studies have examined cognitive and affective dimensions of these relational constructs, dual sequential effects in relationship formation have not been investigated. This study proposes and finds (in the context of online group chat) that parallel cognitive and affective sequences of relationship formation take place, thus expanding scholarly understanding of underlying psychological processes and offering marketing practitioners two different ways to build relationships with consumers. The proposed dual‐sequence relational framework further advances theory by shedding light on counterintuitive findings in past research. The study also supports the proposed moderating effects of employee communication style, such that sequential effects of cognitive (affective) relational constructs are stronger with a task‐oriented (socially oriented) employee, thus offering insights to practitioners in hiring and training employees to match specific organizational goals for building relationships with consumers. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effectiveness of promotional premiums: The moderating role of affective state in different contexts
Authors: Chang Chingching
Published: January 2009

This research explores the influence of affective state on ad and product judgments for advertising that features promotional offers of high and low price value. Consistent with expectations, Study 1 found that for happy participants, high‐price value premiums generated higher ad believability ratings, which in turn enhanced ad and brand attitudes. For sad participants, however, the positive effects of high‐price value premiums were attenuated due to message believability discounting. It is proposed that the moderating influence of affective state on responses to ads featuring premiums should be more likely to emerge when attention to premiums is high, as in situations where ads feature less important product attributes or when consumers plan to purchase a product. Study 2 found that the interaction between affective state and premium value was significant when ads featured less important product attributes, but not when they featured important product attributes. Study 3 found that the interaction was significant for participants who intended to purchase the product in the near future, but not for those who did not have purchase intentions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Toward an “omic” physiopathology of reactive chemicals: Thirty years of mass spectrometric study of the protein adducts with endogenous and xenobiotic compounds
Authors: Rubino Federico Maria , Pitton Marco , Di Fabio Daniela , Colombi Antonio
Published: January 2009

Cancer and degenerative diseases are major causes of morbidity and death, derived from the permanent modification of key biopolymers such as DNA and regulatory proteins by usually smaller, reactive molecules, present in the environment or generated from endogenous and xenobiotic components by the body's own biochemical mechanisms (molecular adducts). In particular, protein adducts with organic electrophiles have been studied for more than 30 [see, e.g., Calleman et al., 1978] years essentially for three purposes: (a) as passive monitors of the mean level of individual exposure to specific chemicals, either endogenously present in the human body or to which the subject is exposed through food or environmental contamination; (b) as quantitative indicators of the mean extent of the individual metabolic processing which converts a non‐reactive chemical substance into its toxic products able to damage DNA (en route to cancer induction through genotoxic mechanisms) or key proteins (as in the case of several drugs, pesticides or otherwise biologically active substances); (c) to relate the extent of protein modification to that of biological function impairment (such as enzyme inhibition) finally causing the specific health damage. This review describes the role that contemporary mass spectrometry‐based approaches employed in the qualitative and quantitative study of protein–electrophile adducts play in the discovery of the (bio)chemical mechanisms of toxic substances and highlights the future directions of research in this field. A particular emphasis is given to the measurement of often high levels of the protein adducts of several industrial and environmental pollutants in unexposed human populations, a phenomenon which highlights the possibility that a number of small organic molecules are generated in the human organism through minor metabolic processes, the imbalance of which may be the cause of “spontaneous” cases of cancer and of other degenerative diseases of still uncharacterized etiology. With all this in mind, it is foreseen that a holistic description of cellular functions will take advantage of new analytical methods based on time‐integrated metabolomic measurements of a new biological compartment, the “adductome,” aimed at better understanding integrated organism response to environmental and endogenous stressors. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 28:725–784, 2009
Conformational analysis and stereochemical dependences of 31P–1H spin–spin coupling constants of bis(2‐phenethyl)vinylphosphine and related phosphine chalcogenides
Authors: Fedorov Sergey V. , Krivdin Leonid B. , Rusakov Yury Yu. , Ushakov Igor A. , Istomina Natalia V. , Belogorlova Natalia A. , Malysheva Svetlana F. , Gusarova Nina K. , Trofimov Boris A.
Published: January 2009

Theoretical energy‐based conformational analysis of bis(2‐phenethyl)vinylphosphine and related phosphine oxide, sulfide and selenide synthesized from available secondary phosphine chalcogenides and vinyl sulfoxides is performed at the MP2/6‐311G** level to study stereochemical behavior of their 31P–1H spin–spin coupling constants measured experimentally and calculated at different levels of theory. All four title compounds are shown to exist in the equilibrium mixture of two conformers: major planar s‐cis and minor orthogonal ones, while 31P–1 H spin–spin coupling constants under study are found to demonstrate marked stereochemical dependences with respect to the geometry of the coupling pathways, and to the internal rotation of the vinyl group around the P(X)‐C bonds (X = LP, O, S and Se), opening a new guide in the conformational studies of unsaturated phosphines and phosphine chalcogenides. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Formation of Toxic α,β‐Unsaturated 4‐Hydroxy‐Aldehydes in Thermally Oxidized Fatty Acid Methyl Esters
Authors: Han In Hwa , Csallany A. Saari
Published: January 2009

To investigate the heat induced formation of α,β‐unsaturated 4‐hydroxy‐aldehydes (4‐hydroxy‐2‐trans‐hexenal (HHE), 4‐hydroxy‐2‐trans‐octenal (HOE), 4‐hydroxy‐2‐trans‐nonenal (HNE) and 4‐hydroxy‐2‐trans‐decenal (HDE)) fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) of stearic, oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids were heated separately at 185°C for 0 to 6 hrs. The formation of 2,4‐decadienal, a suspected intermediate in HNE formation, was also measured in these FAMEs. As expected methyl stearate (MS) and methyl oleate (MO) did not produce any of the α,β‐unsaturated 4‐hydroxy‐aldehydes as a consequence of thermally induced lipid peroxidation. The formation of HHE was detected in both methyl linoleate (ML) and methyl linolenate (MLN), with concentration higher in MLN than in ML. The maximum HHE concentration was 3.99 μg HHE/g ML after 2 h and 50.78 μg HHE/g MLN after 4 h of heat treatment. HOE was detected in both ML and MLN, and the maximum concentration was 102.50 μg HOE/g ML after 6 h and 90.56 μg HOE/g MLN after 2 h of heating. HNE was found only in ML and its highest concentration was 84.82 μg HNE/g ML after 3 h of heating. HDE was not detected in any of the four heat treated FAMEs. 2,4‐Decadienal was not found to be an intermediate in the formation of HNE in thermally induced oxidation of FAMEs.
Identifying patient-relevant endpoints among individuals with schizophrenia: An application of patient-centered health technology assessment
Authors: Kinter Elizabeth T. , Schmeding Annette , Rudolph Ina , dosReis Susan , Bridges John F. P.
Published: January 2009

Objectives:Schizophrenia imposes a great burden on society, and while evaluation should play an important role in informing society's efforts to alleviate these burdens, it is unclear what “endpoints” should be chosen as the objective of such analyses. The objectives of the study were to elicit endpoints directly from patients with schizophrenia, to ascertain whether patients are sufficiently cognoscente to express what endpoints are and are not important to them and to rank the relevant endpoints.

Methods:We applied principles of patient-centered health technology assessment to identify and value endpoints from the patient's perspective. Focus groups were conducted to elicit endpoints, using interpretive phenomalogical analysis (IPA) to guide the collection, analysis and interpretation of data. Patient interviews were subsequently used to elicit patient preference over endpoints. Respondents were presented with cards outlining the endpoints and asked to remove irrelevant cards. They where then asked to identify and rank their five most relevant endpoints in order of importance. Interviews were recorded for the purposed of triangulation, and data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Patients were recruited from five geographically diverse cities in Germany. Eligibility required a diagnosis of schizophrenia by a physician and treatment with an antipsychotic medication for at least one year. Respondents were excluded if they were experiencing an acute episode.

Results:Thirteen endpoints emerged as important from the focus groups spanning side-effects, functional status, processes of care and clinical outcomes. Respondents could clearly identify relevant and irrelevant endpoints, and rank which factors were important to them. Triangulation between field notes of the ranking exercise and recordings confirmed that rankings were not arbitrary, but justified from the respondents' point of view.

Conclusions:Patients with schizophrenia can express preferences over endpoints. Our results show that qualitative methods such as IPA can be used to identify factors, but ranking exercises provide a more robust method for ranking the importance of endpoints. Future research involving patients with schizophrenia ranking outcomes is needed to identify variations across patients and methods such as conjoint analysis could prove beneficial in identifying acceptable tradeoffs across endpoints.
Finding legitimacy for the role of budget impact in drug reimbursement decisions
Authors: Niezen Maartje G. H. , de Bont Antoinette , Busschbach Jan J. V. , Cohen Joshua P. , Stolk Elly A.
Published: January 2009

Objectives:Research has shown that effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and severity of illness each play a role in drug reimbursement decisions. However, the role of budget impact in such decisions is less obvious. Policy makers almost always demand a budget impact estimate yet seem reluctant to formally include budget impact as a rationing criterion. Health economists even reject budget impact as a legitimate criterion. For these reasons, it is important to examine its use in rationing decisions, and rationales underlying its use.

Methods:We trace several rationales supporting the use of budget impact through a literature review, supplemented by semistructured interviews with eleven key stakeholders involved in drug reimbursement decisions in the Netherlands.

Results:Budget impact arguments are used in certain instances, although policy makers appear uncomfortable with its use because well described rationales still are lacking. In addition, we identify the following rationales to support budget impact as a rationing criterion: opportunity costs, loss aversion, uncertainty and equal opportunity.

Conclusions:Budget impact plays a role in drug reimbursement decisions and has rationales to support its use. However, policy makers do not easily admit that they consider budget impact and are even reluctant to explicitly use budget impact as a formal criterion. A debate would strengthen the theoretical foundation of budget impact as a legitimate criterion in the context of drug reimbursement decisions. Such discussion of budget impact's role will also enhance policy-makers' accountability.
Evaluating the status of “translating research into practice” at a major academic healthcare system
Authors: Rajab M. Hasan , Villamaria Frank J. , Rohack J. James
Published: January 2009

Objectives:The aim of this study was to assess the status of translating research findings into practice at a major academic healthcare system in Central Texas.

Methods:We conducted a cross-sectional survey addressing knowledge of and participation in translational research of physicians, residents, nurses and third- and fourth-year medical students in a major academic healthcare system in Central Texas.

Results:Out of 508 respondents, 428 (84.3 percent) completed all questions. A total of 68.9 percent of faculty reported having sufficient education and training to conduct research versus 44.4 percent of residents and 35.6 percent of nurses. Fifty-eight percent of faculty, 53 percent of residents and 9 percent of nurses reported current involvement in research activity. A total of 55.6 percent of residents reported that their departments provide them with protected time for research versus 18.4 percent of faculty and 10.3 percent of nurses. In addition, 33.9 percent of nurses reported interest in participating in research but do not know how to start. There were 86.4 percent of faculty, 77.8 percent of residents, and 58 percent of nurses who indicated they were familiar with translational research. However, only 42.7 percent of faculty, 46.7 percent of residents and 35.6 percent of nurses indicated they were aware of any changes in the delivery of care that resulted from research projects.

Conclusions:The study results suggested failure to leverage members of the healthcare team in a systematic process to ensure translation of research findings into practice. Results highlighted the need to merge culture of safety and quality improvement with research while dealing with the daily pressures of patient care.
Perception du contraste de nasalité vocalique en français
Authors: DELVAUX VÉRONIQUE
Published: January 2009

Cette étude examine la perception du contraste de nasalité vocalique en français standard, et vise, plus globalement, à contribuer à une meilleure compréhension des mécanismes présidant à la covariation phonétique dans les langues du monde. Nous présentons les résultats de deux expériences perceptuelles menées sur des auditeurs francophones et anglophones, l'une d'identification, l'autre de discrimination. L'expérience d'identification montre que la combinaison d'une réduction de la proéminence spectrale en F1/F3 et d'un abaissement de la fréquence de F2 est à la fois nécessaire et suffisante à l'identification des nasales du français standard, tous timbres et tous contextes confondus; le recours à la dimension secondaire (F2) est renforcé en contexte nasal. L'expérience de discrimination montre que la combinaison effectuée par les auditeurs entre les deux dimensions covariantes est d'origine sensorielle, et non décisionnelle.
Le PS: cher disparu de la rubrique nécrologique?
Authors: LABEAU EMMANUELLE
Published: January 2009

Le passé simple (PS) français, en tant que passé perfectif, semble fait pour l'article nécrologique qui relate les points forts d'une existence dans l'ordre chronologique. Cependant, des linguistes ont affirmé au cours du 20ème siècle que le PS était mourant. Il vaut donc la peine de voir si le PS est utilisé dans les articles nécrologiques et si son usage décline dans le temps.

Cette étude se penche sur un corpus synchronique (Le Monde,Le Figaro,L'Humanité,La Croix,Le Parisien) et un corpus diachronique (Le Monde,Le Figaro). Elle s'intéresse à l'évolution des formes et des fonctions du PS au cours du temps et dans les différents journaux. Elle évalue également la capacité des passé composé, imparfait, présent, plus-que-parfait et futur simple à jouer un rôle narratif dans l'article nécrologique.
Wild ramification and the characteristic cycle of an ℓ-adic sheaf
Authors: Saito Takeshi
Published: January 2009

We propose a geometric method to measure the wild ramification of a smooth étale sheaf along the boundary. Using the method, we study the graded quotients of the logarithmic ramification groups of a local field of characteristic p > 0 with arbitrary residue field. We also define the characteristic cycle of an ℓ-adic sheaf, satisfying certain conditions, as a cycle on the logarithmic cotangent bundle and prove that the intersection with the 0-section computes the characteristic class, and hence the Euler number.
Greenland ice sheet motion coupled with daily melting in late summer
Authors: Shepherd Andrew , Hubbard Alun , Nienow Peter , King Matt , McMillan Malcolm , Joughin Ian
Published: January 2009

We use ground‐based and satellite observations to detect large diurnal and longer‐period variations in the flow of the Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) during late summer that are strongly coupled with changes in its surface hydrology. The diurnal signals are associated with periodic changes in surface melting, and the longer‐period signals are associated with the episodic drainage of supra‐glacial lakes. Ice velocity doubles around 2 hours after peak daily melting and returns approximately to wintertime levels around 12 hours afterwards, demonstrating an intimate link between the surface and basal hydrology. During late summer, the ice sheet accelerates by 35% per positive degree‐day of melting. The observed link between surface melting and enhanced flow is typical of Alpine glaciers, which may provide an appropriate analogue for the evolution of the GrIS in a warming climate.
Predicting the geodetic signature of MW≥ 8 slow slip events
Authors: Meade Brendan J. , Loveless John P.
Published: January 2009

Elastic dislocation models of geodetic measurements above subduction zones have led to the identification of MW≈ 6.0–7.2 slow slip events (SSEs) that release elastic strain over periods of days to months, but great (MW≥ 8) SSEs have remained unidentified. We extrapolate observations of SSE duration and slip magnitude to show that slip velocity decreases with event magnitude and predict that the slip velocity of MW≥ 8 SSEs is ≤50 mm/yr. The slip velocity for great SSEs may never exceed the plate convergence rate and thus never produce a reversal in trench perpendicular motion. Instead, geodetically constrained estimates of apparent partial elastic coupling on subduction zone interfaces worldwide may be direct observations of ongoing MW≥ 8 silent earthquakes with durations of decades to centuries.
Contributions of regional transport and local sources to ozone exceedances in Houston and Dallas: Comparison of results from a photochemical grid model to aircraft and surface measurements
Authors: Kemball‐Cook Susan , Parrish David , Ryerson Thomas , Nopmongcol Uarporn , Johnson Jeremiah , Tai Edward , Yarwood Greg
Published: January 2009

During the 2000 Texas Air Quality Study (TexAQS) and 2006 Texas Air Quality Study (TexAQS II) field experiments, aircraft measured ozone concentrations upwind, across, and downwind of the Houston and Dallas urban areas. Background ozone transported into Houston contributed, on average, approximately 50% and 66% of the total ozone on 8‐h ozone exceedance days investigated by aircraft flights during TexAQS and TexAQS II, respectively. Analysis of a flight over Dallas on one exceedance day showed that transported ozone constituted 72% of the total ozone concentration. The aircraft measurements show that these two major metropolitan areas can be brought close to exceeding the 1997 8‐h National Ambient Air Quality Standard for ozone of 0.08 ppm solely by the ozone contribution of regional transport before additional contribution from local sources. Large local contributions were also observed, particularly in Houston. Transport contributions to Dallas area ozone were quantified using the Comprehensive Air Quality Model with Extensions (CAMx) photochemical grid model and source apportionment methods. Model‐predicted ozone concentrations were compared to ozone measurements from the aircraft and the surface monitoring network, and showed agreement on the importance of regional transport and local ozone formation. These results emphasize the benefits of regional control strategies, and suggest that local controls alone may not be sufficient to ensure attainment of the 8‐h ozone standard in Houston and Dallas.
Product‐error‐driven generator of probable rainfall conditioned on WSR‐88D precipitation estimates
Authors: Villarini Gabriele , Krajewski Witold F. , Ciach Grzegorz J. , Zimmerman Dale L.
Published: January 2009

The existence of large errors in precipitation products delivered by the network of Weather Surveillance Radar, 1988 Doppler (WSR‐88D) radars is broadly recognized. However, their quantitative characteristics remain poorly understood. Recently, the authors developed a functional‐statistical model that quantifies the relation between radar rainfall and the corresponding true rainfall in a way that is applicable to the probabilistic quantitative precipitation estimation planned for future use by the U.S. National Weather Service. The model consists of a deterministic distortion function and a random uncertainty factor, both conditioned on given radar rainfall values. It also accounts for the spatiotemporal correlations in the random uncertainty factor. The model components were estimated on the basis of a 6‐year‐long data sample that considers the effects of seasons, range from radar, and time scales. In this study, the authors present two different applications of the aforementioned uncertainty model: (1) the estimation of rainfall probability maps and (2) the generation of radar rainfall ensembles. In the former, maps of the rainfall exceedance probability for any threshold are produced, given a radar rainfall map. We also present the analytical derivation of the exceedance probability maps at coarser spatial scales. In the latter, the users can generate ensembles of probable true rainfall fields that are consistent with the observed radar rainfall and its error structure. Simulation of the random component is based on the Cholesky decomposition method. Finally, the authors discuss possible uses of these applications in hydrology and hydroclimatology.
Effects of (15S)‐hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid and (15S)‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid on the acute‐ lymphoblastic‐leukaemia cell line Jurkat: activation of the Fas‐mediated death pathway
Authors: Kumar Kotha Anil , Arunasree Kalle M. , Roy Karnati R. , Reddy Nishanth P. , Aparna Ankireddy , Reddy Gorla Venkateswara , Reddanna Pallu
Published: January 2009

The antiproliferative effects of 15‐LOX (15‐lipoxygenase) metabolites of arachidonic acid {(15S)‐HPETE [(15S)‐hydroperoxyeicosatetraenoic acid] and (15S)‐HETE [(15S)‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid]} and the mechanism(s) involved were studied in the human T‐cell leukaemia cell line Jurkat. (15S)‐HPETE, the hydroperoxy metabolite of 15‐LOX, inhibited the growth of Jurkat cells 3 h after exposure and with an IC50 value of 10 μM. The hydroxy metabolite of 15‐LOX, (15S)‐HETE, on the other hand, inhibited the growth of Jurkat cells after 6 h of exposure and with an IC50 value of 40 μM. The cells exposed to 10 μM (15S)‐HPETE for 3 h or to 40 μM (15S)‐HETE for 6 h showed increased expression of Fas ligand and FADD (Fas‐associated death domain), caspase 8 activation, Bid (BH3‐interacting domain death agonist) cleavage, decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, cytochrome c release, caspase 3 activation, PARP‐1 [poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase‐1] cleavage and DNA fragmentation, suggesting the involvement of both extrinsic and intrinsic death pathways. Further studies on ROS (reactive oxygen species) generation revealed the involvement of NADPH oxidase. In conclusion, the present study indicates that NADPH oxidase‐induced ROS generation activates the Fas‐mediated death pathway.
Generation of an affinity matrix useful in the purification of natural inhibitors of plasmepsin II, an antimalarial‐drug target
Authors: Ramírez Angel R. , Guerra Yasel , Otero Anabel , García Beatriz , Berry Colin , Mendiola Judith , Hernández‐Zanui Aida , Chávez María de los A.
Published: January 2009

An affinity matrix containing the antimalarial drug target Plm II (plasmepsin II) as ligand was generated. This enzyme belongs to the family of Plasmodium (malarial parasite) aspartic proteinases, known as Plms (plasmepsins). The procedure established to obtain the support has two steps: the immobilization of the recombinant proenzyme of Plm II to NHS (N‐hydroxysuccinimide)‐activated Sepharose and the activation of the immobilized enzyme by incubation at pH 4.4 and 37 °C. The coupling reaction resulted in a high percentage immobilization (95.5%), and the matrices obtained had an average of 4.3 mg of protein/ml of gel. The activated matrices, but not the inactive ones, were able to hydrolyse two different chromogenic peptide substrates and haemoglobin. This ability was completely blocked by the addition of the general aspartic‐proteinase inhibitor, pepstatin A, to the reaction mixture. The matrices were useful in the affinity purification of the Plm II inhibitory activity detected in marine invertebrates, such as Xestospongia muta (giant barrel sponge) and the gorgonian (sea‐fan coral) Plexaura homomalla (black sea rod), with increases of 10.2‐ and 5.9‐fold in the specific inhibitory activity respectively. The preliminary Ki values obtained, 46.4 nM (X. muta) and 1.9 nM (P. homomalla), and the concave shapes of the inhibition curves reveal that molecules are reversible tight‐binding inhibitors of Plm II. These results validated the use of the affinity matrix for the purification of Plm II inhibitors from complex mixtures and established the presence of Plm II inhibitors in some marine invertebrates.
Solving quantum field theories via curved spacetimes
Authors: Klebanov Igor R. , Maldacena Juan M.
Published: January 2009

Strongly interacting quantum field theories are notoriously difficult to work with, but new information about some of them is emerging from their surprising correspondence with gravitational theories.
Estimating fine root longevity in a temperate Norway spruce forest using three independent methods
Authors: Gaul Dirk , Hertel Dietrich , Leuschner Christoph
Published: January 2009

The importance of root systems for C cycling depends crucially on fine root longevity. We investigated mean values for fine root longevity with root diameter, root C/N ratio and soil depth using radiocarbon (14C) analyses in a temperate Norway spruce [Picea abies (L.) Karst.] forest. In addition, we applied sequential soil coring and minirhizotron observations to estimate fine root longevity in the organic layer of the same stand. The mean radiocarbon age of C in fine roots increased with depth from 5 years in the organic layer to 13 years in 40–60 cm mineral soil depth. Similarly, the C/N ratios of fine root samples were lowest in the organic layer with a mean value of 24 and increased with soil depth. Roots >0.5 mm in diameter tended to live longer than those being <0.5 mm in diameter. By far the strongest variability in fine root longevity estimates was due to the chosen method of investigation, with radiocarbon analyses yielding much higher estimates (5.4 years) than sequential soil coring (0.9 years) and minirhizotron observations (0.7 years). We conclude that sequential soil coring and minirhizotron observations are likely to underestimate mean fine root longevity, and radiocarbon analyses may lead to an overestimation of mean root longevity.
Forecasting United States mortality using cohort smoking histories
Authors: Wang Haidong , Preston Samuel H.
Published: January 2009

In this paper, we introduce a recently established relationship between cohort smoking patterns and adult mortality into mortality projections for the United States. In particular, we incorporate a variable representing the intensity of smoking within a cohort into the original Lee–Carter projection model. The introduction of this variable accounts for important anomalies in the recent age/sex pattern of mortality change and enables the use of a common temporal trend of mortality change for the 2 sexes. We project age-specific mortality rates for men and women at ages 50–84 between 2004 and 2034 in the United States. Because of reductions in smoking that have already occurred or can be reliably projected, mortality is projected to decline much faster when smoking is introduced into the model.
Htm1 protein generates the N-glycan signal for glycoprotein degradation in the endoplasmic reticulum
Authors: Clerc Simone , Hirsch Christian , Oggier Daniela Maria , Deprez Paola , Jakob Claude , Sommer Thomas , Aebi Markus
Published: January 2009

To maintain protein homeostasis in secretory compartments, eukaryotic cells harbor a quality control system that monitors protein folding and protein complex assembly in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Proteins that do not fold properly or integrate into cognate complexes are degraded by ER-associated degradation (ERAD) involving retrotranslocation to the cytoplasm and proteasomal peptide hydrolysis. N-linked glycans are essential in glycoprotein ERAD; the covalent oligosaccharide structure is used as a signal to display the folding status of the host protein. In this study, we define the function of the Htm1 protein as an α1,2-specific exomannosidase that generates the Man7GlcNAc2 oligosaccharide with a terminal α1,6-linked mannosyl residue on degradation substrates. This oligosaccharide signal is decoded by the ER-localized lectin Yos9p that in conjunction with Hrd3p triggers the ubiquitin-proteasome–dependent hydrolysis of these glycoproteins. The Htm1p exomannosidase activity requires processing of the N-glycan by glucosidase I, glucosidase II, and mannosidase I, resulting in a sequential order of specific N-glycan structures that reflect the folding status of the glycoprotein.
Multipronged Intervention Strategy to Control an Outbreak of Clostridium difficile Infection (CDI) and Its Impact on the Rates of CDI from 2002 to 2007
Authors: Weiss Karl , Boisvert Annie , Chagnon Miguel , Duchesne Caroline , Habash Sylvie , Lepage Yves , Letourneau Julie , Raty Johanna , Savoie Michel
Published: January 2009

Objective.

At the end of 2002, a new, more virulent strain of Clostridium difficile, designated BI/NAP1, was the cause of a massive outbreak of infection in the province of Quebec. This particular strain was associated with a dramatic increase in morbidity and mortality among affected patients in 2003–2004. We tested and implemented a multipronged infection control approach to curtail the rate of C. difficile infection (CDI).

Design.

Five-year observational study.

Setting.

A 554-bed, acute care tertiary hospital, the largest single medical center in Quebec, Canada.

Methods.

To curtail the magnitude of the outbreak, we implemented a global strategy consisting of rapid C. difficile testing for all hospitalized patients who had at least 1 occurrence of liquid stool, the rapid isolation of patients infected with C. difficile in a dedicated ward with a specially trained housekeeping team, a global hand hygiene program, and the hiring of infection control practitioners. Antibiotic consumption at the institutional level was also monitored during the 5-year surveillance period. Cases of hospital-acquired CDI per 1,000 admissions were continuously monitored on a monthly basis during the entire surveillance period.

Results.

The highest recorded CDI rate was 42 cases per 1,000 admissions in January 2004. Once additional infection control resources were put in place, the rate descreased significantly during the period from April 2005 to March 2007. During the 2003–2004 period, there were 762 cases of CDI (mean annual rate, 37.28 cases per 1,000 admissions) recorded in our study, compared with 292 cases of CDI (14.48 cases per 1,000 admissions) during the 2006–2007 period (OR, 0.379 [95% CI, 0.331–0.435]; P < .001 ), a 61% reduction. In March 2007, the equivalent of 4 full-time equivalent infection control practitioners were in place, which gave a ratio of 0.96 infection control practitioners per 133 beds in use, compared with the ratio of 0.24 infection control practitioners per 133 beds in use in 2003, and the total number of hours dedicated to cleaning and housekeeping increased by 26.2%. The total amount of antibiotics used in the hospital did not vary significantly from 2002 to 2007, although there were changes in the classes antibiotic used.

Conclusion.

The implementation of a multipronged intervention strategy to control the outbreak of CDI significantly improved the overall situation at the hospital and underlined the importance of investing in stringent infection control practices.