bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of colesevelam on glucose absorption and hepatic/peripheral insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Henry R. R. , Aroda V. R. , Mudaliar S. , Garvey W. T. , Chou H. S. , Jones M. R.
Published: August 2011

Aim: Colesevelam lowers glucose and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study examined the mechanisms by which colesevelam might affect glucose control.

Methods: In this 12‐week, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study, subjects with type 2 diabetes and haemoglobin A1c(HbA1c) ≥7.5% on either stable diet and exercise or sulphonylurea therapy were randomized to colesevelam 3.75 g/day (n = 16) or placebo (n = 14). Hepatic/peripheral insulin sensitivity was evaluated at baseline and at week 12 by infusion of 3H‐labelled glucose followed by a 2‐step hyperinsulinemic–euglycemic clamp. Two 75‐g oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) were conducted at baseline, one with and one without co‐administration of colesevelam. A final OGTT was conducted at week 12. HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels were evaluated pre‐ and post‐treatment.

Results: Treatment with colesevelam, compared to placebo, had no significant effects on basal endogenous glucose output, response to insulin or on maximal steady‐state glucose disposal rate. At baseline, co‐administration of colesevelam with oral glucose reduced total area under the glucose curve (AUCg) but not incremental AUCg. At week 12, neither total AUCg nor incremental AUCg were changed from pre‐treatment values in either group. Post‐load insulin levels increased with colesevelam at 30 and 120 min, but these changes in total area under the insulin curve (AUCi) and incremental AUCi did not differ between groups. Both HbA1c and FPG improved with colesevelam, but treatment differences were not significant.

Conclusions: Colesevelam does not affect hepatic or peripheral insulin sensitivity and does not directly affect glucose absorption.
Mechanisms linking obesity to hypertension
Authors: Dorresteijn J. A. N. , Visseren F. L. J. , Spiering W.
Published: August 2011

Obesity‐related hypertension is increasingly recognized as a distinct hypertensive phenotype requiring a modified approach to diagnosis and management. In this review rapidly evolving insights into the complex and interdependent mechanisms linking obesity to hypertension are discussed. Overweight and obesity are associated with adipose tissue dysfunction, characterized by enlarged hypertrophied adipocytes, increased infiltration by macrophages and marked changes in secretion of adipokines and free fatty acids. This results in chronic vascular inflammation, oxidative stress, activation of the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system and sympathetic overdrive, eventually leading to hypertension. These mechanisms may provide novel targets for anti‐hypertensive drug treatment. Recognition of obesity‐related hypertension as a distinct diagnosis enables tailored therapy in clinical practice. This includes lifestyle modification and accommodated choice of blood pressure‐lowering drugs.
PRESCRIPTIONS FOR REGIONAL ECONOMIC DILEMMAS: UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF THINK TANKS IN THE GOVERNANCE OF REGIONAL POLICY
Authors: WELLS PETER
Published: August 2011

The aim of this paper is to contribute to the understanding of the role of think tanks in the governance of regional policy. The paper critically reviews a series of reports by United Kingdom (UK) based think tanks, published between 2002 and 2008, a period of interest on the part of national government in the most appropriate configuration of subnational governance. Policy transfer and the role of ideas in regional policy provide the framework for analysis. The interpretation of the findings suggests that the think tanks considered are largely products of national policy debate and party politics in the United Kingdom, despite efforts to devolve power. This is surprising given debates about the influence of European Union regional funding on UK regional policy, seen as a prime example of multi‐level governance.
Long‐term outcome of primary non‐responders to tenofovir therapy in HIV/HBV‐co‐infected patients: impact of HBV genotype G
Authors: Lada Olivier , Gervais Anne , Branger Michel , Peytavin Gilles , Roquebert Benedicte , Collin Gilles , Fraqueiro Gil , Moucari Rami , Hamet Gwen , Martinot‐Peignoux Michelle , Matheron Sophie , Marcellin Patrick
Published: August 2011

Aim

To evaluate the early virological response (EVR) to combined tenofovir‐lamivudine or emtricitabine regimen in HBV/HIV‐co‐infected patients and the long‐term efficacy of tenofovir.

Methods

In this retrospective monocentric study, among the 166 HIV/HBV‐co‐infected patients regularly followed from 2003 to 2008 at Bichat Claude Bernard Hospital, 61 patients had received, either de novo combination therapy with tenofovir and lamivudine or emtricitabine (group I, n = 15) or add‐on tenofovir to lamivudine therapy (group II, n = 46). The HBV polymerase region was sequenced and analysed for all patients with available samples.

Results

All 15 group I patients achieved EVR vs 32 (82%) of group II patients (P = 0.15). Seven adherent group II patients met criteria for primary non‐response, but achieved delayed response (DR) to therapy. In these seven patients, when compared with the 39 group II patients, there was a trend to longer duration of lamivudine pre‐treatment and to higher rate of lamivudine‐resistant mutants; and HBV genotype‐G proportion was higher (P = 0.026). No virological breakthrough occurred after a median of 46 months follow up.

Conclusion

In these HBV/HIV‐co‐infected patients, first‐line HBV therapy with tenofovir and emtricitabine or lamivudine was associated with EVR. However, DR to tenofovir was observed in 15% of patients who added tenofovir to lamivudine therapy, of whom four of seven (57%) had genotype G‐HBV infection. No resistance was evidenced after 46 months of therapy even in patients with DR to tenofovir. At last, a good renal safety profile of TDF was observed after a median follow‐up of 4 years of therapy.
Comparative Effectiveness of Different Chemotherapeutic Regimens on Survival of People Aged 66 and Older with Stage III Colon Cancer: A “Real World” Analysis Using Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results–Medicare Data
Authors: Hsiao Fei‐Yuan , Mullins C. Daniel , Onukwugha Ebere , Pandya Naimish , Hanna Nader
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVES: To compare the effectiveness and utilization trends of irinotecan (IRI)‐based and oxaliplatin (OX)‐based regimens with those of 5‐fluorouracil and leucovorin (5FU/LV) alone in people aged 66 and older with Stage III colon cancer.

DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING: Data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)–Medicare data.

PARTICIPANTS: People with Stage III surgically resected colon cancer who received adjuvant chemotherapy were categorized into 5FU/LV‐alone (n=3,581), OX‐based regimen (n=814), and IRI‐based regimen (n=219) subgroups.

MEASUREMENTS: Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models examined the effect of chemotherapies on overall survival, colon cancer–specific survival, and non‐colon cancer–specific survival.

RESULTS: Use of the OX‐based regimen increased, and use of the 5FU/LV‐alone and IRI‐based regimens decreased over time. OX was statistically significantly associated with longer overall survival (hazard ratio (HR)=0.73, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.62–0.86, P<.001) and colorectal cancer–specific survival (HR=0.39, 95% CI, 0.28–0.55, P<.001) than 5FU/LV alone. There was a greater risk of overall mortality (HR=1.38, 95% CI=1.14–1.67, P<.001) and cancer‐specific mortality (HR=1.92, 95% CI=1.49–2.47, P<.001) associated with IRI than with 5FU/LV. The superiority of OX on survival was found in participants aged 66 to 79 but not in those aged 80 and older.

CONCLUSION: This “real world” comparative effectiveness research extends randomized controlled trial results by documenting the relative survival benefit of OX in older adults with Stage III colon cancer. The associated shift in treatment away from 5FU/LV alone or IRI toward OX is consistent with evidence‐based medicine from real‐world outcomes research.
Exposure to Potentially Harmful Drug–Disease Interactions in Older Community‐Dwelling Veterans Based on the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set Quality Measure: Who Is at Risk?
Authors: Pugh Mary Jo V. , Starner Catherine I. , Amuan Megan E. , Berlowitz Dan R. , Horton Monica , Marcum Zachary A. , Hanlon Joseph T.
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVES: To identify prevalence and risk factors for exposure to drug–disease interactions included in the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) Drug–Disease Interaction (Rx‐DIS) measure.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional retrospective database analysis.

SETTING: Outpatient clinics within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

PARTICIPANTS: Individuals aged 65 and older who received VA outpatient care between October 1, 2003, and September 30, 2006.

MEASUREMENTS: Rx‐DIS exposure based on the HEDIS measure was identified in VA patients with dementia, falls, and chronic renal failure using VA pharmacy and administrative databases. Factors associated with Rx‐DIS exposure were examined, including demographic, health status, and access‐to‐care factors, including VA outpatient health services use and copayment status.

RESULTS: Of the 305,041 older veterans who met criteria for inclusion, the 1‐year prevalence of Rx‐DIS exposure was 15.2%; prevalence was 20.2% for dementia, 16.2% for falls, and 8.5% for chronic renal failure. Patients with high disease burden (physical, psychiatric, number of medications) were significantly more likely to have Rx‐DIS exposure, regardless of condition. Hispanics and individuals with no copayments were more likely to have Rx‐DIS exposure than whites or those with required copayments. There was variation in other predictors based on the type of Rx‐DIS.

CONCLUSION: The prevalence of Rx‐DIS was common in older VA outpatients. Future studies should examine the risk of Rx‐DIS exposure on health outcomes using separate analyses for each type of Rx‐DIS separately before combining all Rx‐DIS into a single measure of exposure. Studies that examine the effectiveness of interventions to reduce Rx‐DIS exposure will also be helpful in improving the quality of care for older adults.
Physiological and performance adaptations to an in‐season soccer camp in the heat: Associations with heart rate and heart rate variability
Authors: Buchheit M. , Voss S. C. , Nybo L. , Mohr M. , Racinais S.
Published: August 2011

The aim of the present study was to examine the associations between adaptive responses to an in‐season soccer training camp in the heat and changes in submaximal exercising heart rate (HRex, 5‐min run at 9 km/h), postexercise HR recovery (HRR) and HR variability (HRV). Fifteen well‐trained but non‐heat‐acclimatized male adult players performed a training week in Qatar (34.6 ± 1.9°C wet bulb globe temperature). HRex, HRR, HRV (i.e. the standard deviation of instantaneous beat‐to‐beat R–R interval variability measured from Poincaré plots SD1, a vagal‐related index), creatine kinase (CK) activity, plasma volume (PV) changes, and post‐5‐min run rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were collected at six occasions in temperate environmental conditions (22°C). Players also performed the yo‐yo intermittent recovery test level 1 (Yo‐Yo IR1) in the same environmental conditions (22°C), both at the beginning and at the end of the training week. Throughout the intervention, HRex and HRV showed decreasing (P < 0.001) and increasing (P < 0.001) trends, respectively, while HRR remained unaffected (P = 0.84). Changes in HRex [−0.52, 90% confidence limits (−0.64; −0.38), P < 0.001] and SD1 [0.35 (0.19; 0.49), P < 0.001] were correlated with those in PV. There was no change in RPE (P = 0.92), while CK varied according to training contents (P < 0.001), without association with HR‐derived measures. Yo‐Yo IR1 performance increased by 7 ± 9% (P = 0.009), which was correlated with changes in HRex [−0.64 (−0.84; −0.28), P = 0.01]. In conclusion, we found that an in‐season soccer training camp in the heat can significantly improve PV and soccer‐specific physical performance; both of which are associated with changes in HRex during a 5‐min submaximal run.
THE VALUE OF RADIOGRAPHIC SCREENING FOR METALLIC PARTICLES IN THE EQUINE FOOT AND SIZE OF RELATED ARTIFACTS ON LOW‐FIELD MRI
Authors: URRACA DEL JUNCO CAROLINA I. , SHAW DARREN J. , WEAVER MARTIN P. , SCHWARZ TOBIAS
Published: August 2011

Magnetic susceptibility artifacts as a result of metal debris from shoeing are a common problem in magnetic resonance imaging of the equine foot. Our purpose was to determine the suitability of radiography as a screening tool for the presence and location of metallic particles in the equine foot and to predict the size of the resultant magnetic susceptibility artifact. Radiography had 100% sensitivity for detection of metal particles ≥1 mm diameter. Metal particles of known diameter were placed within the hoof wall of 22 cadaver feet and scanned with a low‐field strength MR imaging unit (0.21 T). Magnetic resonance images were characterized by a signal void with a hyperintense rim and adjacent image distortion at the level of the known metal location. T2* weighted sequences were the most and fast spin echo (FSE) sequences the least affected. For all four sequences (T1 gradient echo [GRE]; T2*W GRE; T2 FSE; and short tau inversion recovery FSE), linear relationships were observed between particle and resultant artifact size. Magnetic susceptibility artifact size, location and superimposition on clinically relevant anatomic structures can be predicted radiographically for particles larger than 1 mm. If metal debris cannot be removed, the least artifact‐prone FSE sequences should be selected.
GONe: Software for estimating effective population size in species with generational overlap
Authors: COOMBS J. A. , LETCHER B. H. , NISLOW K. H.
Published: August 2011

GONe is a user‐friendly, Windows‐based program for estimating effective size (Ne) in populations with overlapping generations. It uses the Jorde–Ryman modification to the temporal method to account for age structure in populations. This method requires estimates of age‐specific survival and birth rate and allele frequencies measured in two or more consecutive cohorts. Allele frequencies are acquired by reading in genotypic data from files formatted for either GENEPOP or TEMPOFS. For each interval between consecutive cohorts, Ne is estimated at each locus and over all loci. Furthermore, Ne estimates are output for three different genetic drift estimators (Fs, Fc and Fk). Confidence intervals are derived from a chi‐square distribution with degrees of freedom equal to the number of independent alleles. GONe has been validated over a wide range of Ne values, and for scenarios where survival and birth rates differ between sexes, sex ratios are unequal and reproductive variances differ. GONe is freely available for download at https://bcrc.bio.umass.edu/pedigreesoftware/.
Anatomical reinvestigation of Archaeopteris macilenta from the Upper Devonian (Frasnian) of South China
Authors: GUO Yun , WANG De‐Ming
Published: August 2011

Abstract  Archaeopteris macilenta is one of the most widespread plants in the Late Devonian. Based on fossils from the Frasnian Huangjiadeng Formation, Yichang District of Hubei Province, for the first time we study in detail the anatomy of this progymnosperm plant in South China. Ultimate axes are protostelic with three xylem sympodia and lack secondary tissue. Penultimate axes are eustelic, bearing eight sympodia and a thin band of secondary xylem. Radially symmetrical sympodia of mesarch primary xylem produce traces of appendages in a spiral arrangement. Archaeopteris macilenta and A. halliana (A. roemeriana) are dominant in the Frasnian and Famennian, respectively. Comparisons with these two species from other tectonic plates indicate consistent stelar architectures. Global spread, continuous occurrence, and identical anatomy during the Late Devonian indicate that Archaeopteris survived the Frasnian–Famennian extinction event. In this time, endemic genera and cosmopolitan taxa, including Archaeopteris, suggest the palaeogeographic isolation of South China and certain associations with other plates.
Infants’ perception of object–surface interplays
Authors: Morgante James D. , Johnson Scott P.
Published: August 2011

Twelve‐ and 18‐month‐old infants participated in a study designed to investigate the quality of their manual action when relating an object to the surface on which it is explored. Specifically, infants’ perception‐action routines were observed when they were presented with multiple objects (wooden scoop, Velcro block, and crayon) on surfaces of varying properties (paper, sand, and Velcro) to determine if sensory feedback or perceptual awareness steered their exploration of the available materials. Infants were observed to selectively tailor their manual actions across conditions, apparently guided by a perceived awareness of the fit between their manual dexterity and the environmental arrangement.
Self-Motions of TSSM Manipulators With Two Parallel Rotary Axes
Authors: Nawratil Georg
Published: August 2011

In this paper, we determine all nontrivial self-motions of triangular symmetric simplified manipulators (TSSMs) with two parallel rotary axes which equal the determination of all flexible octahedra where one vertex is an ideal point. This study also closes the classification of these motions for the whole set of parallel manipulators of TSSM type. Our approach is based on Kokotsakis meshes and the reducible compositions of spherical coupler motions with a spherical coupler component.
Heat Transfer of Supercritical Carbon Dioxide in Printed Circuit Heat Exchanger Geometries
Authors: Kruizenga Alan , Anderson Mark , Fatima Roma , Corradini Michael , Towne Aaron , Ranjan Devesh
Published: August 2011

The increasing importance of improving efficiency and reducing capital costs has led to significant work studying advanced Brayton cycles for high temperature energy conversion. Using compact, highly efficient, diffusion-bonded heat exchangers for the recuperators has been a noteworthy improvement in the design of advanced carbon dioxide Brayton cycles. These heat exchangers will operate near the pseudocritical point of carbon dioxide, making use of the drastic variation of the thermophysical properties. This paper focuses on the experimental measurements of heat transfer under cooling conditions, as well as pressure drop characteristics within a prototypic printed circuit heat exchanger. Studies utilize type-316 stainless steel, nine channel, semi-circular test section, and supercritical carbon dioxide serves as the working fluid throughout all experiments. The test section channels have a hydraulic diameter of 1.16 mm and a length of 0.5 m. The mini-channels are fabricated using current chemical etching technology, emulating techniques used in current diffusion-bonded printed circuit heat exchanger manufacturing. Local heat transfer values were determined using measured wall temperatures and heat fluxes over a large set of experimental parameters that varied system pressure, inlet temperature, and mass flux. Experimentally determined heat transfer coefficients and pressure drop data are compared to correlations and earlier data available in literature. Modeling predictions using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) package FLUENT are included to supplement experimental data. All nine channels were modeled using known inlet conditions and measured wall temperatures as boundary conditions. The CFD results show excellent agreement in total heat removal for the near pseudocritical region, as well as regions where carbon dioxide is a high or low density fluid.
Transverse Impact Response of a Linear Elastic Ballistic Fiber Yarn
Authors: Song Bo , Park Hwun , Lu Wei-Yang , Chen Weinong
Published: August 2011

Transverse impact response of a linear elastic Kevlar® KM2 fiber yarn was determined at various striking speeds from Hopkinson bar and gas gun experiments incorporated with high-speed photography techniques. Upon transverse impact, a triangle shape was formed in the fiber yarn. Both longitudinal and transverse waves were produced and propagated outwards the fiber yarn. Both the angle of the triangle and Euler transverse wave speed vary with striking speeds. The relationship between the Euler transverse wave speed and the striking speed was determined. The transverse impact response of the fiber yarn was also analyzed with a model, which agrees well with the experimental results. The model shows that the longitudinal wave speed is critical in the ballistic performance of the fiber yarn. At a certain striking speed, a higher longitudinal wave speed produces a higher Euler transverse wave speed, enabling us to spread the load and dissipate the impact energy faster, such that the ballistic performance of the fiber yarn is improved.
An Introduction to Multilayer Lamina Emergent Mechanisms
Authors: Gollnick Paul S. , Magleby Spencer P. , Howell Larry L.
Published: August 2011

Multiple-layer lamina emergent mechanisms (MLEMs) are the mechanisms made from multiple sheets (lamina) of material with motion that emerges out of the fabrication plane. Understanding how layers are used in existing products and in nature provides insight into how MLEMs can also use layers to achieve certain tasks. The multilayered nature of MLEMs and the interactions between these layers show how the capabilities of MLEMs are enhanced and allow them to meet specific design objectives. Layer separation is one objective for which MLEMs are well-suited. Layer separation can have a variety of applications and there are a number of different ways to design a MLEM to achieve this objective.
Curaxins: Anticancer Compounds That Simultaneously Suppress NF-κB and Activate p53 by Targeting FACT
Authors: Gasparian Alexander V. , Burkhart Catherine A. , Purmal Andrei A. , Brodsky Leonid , Pal Mahadeb , Saranadasa Madhi , Bosykh Dmitry A. , Commane Mairead , Guryanova Olga A. , Pal Srabani , Safina Alfiya , Sviridov Sergey , Koman Igor E. , Veith Jean , Komar Anton A. , Gudkov Andrei V. , Gurova Katerina V.
Published: August 2011

The quinacrine-related compounds curaxins target multiple procancer pathways through FACT complex.
Cancer Drug Discovery Faces the FACT
Authors: Draetta Giulio F. , DePinho Ronald A.
Published: August 2011

A second chromatin-remodeling factor—after the histone deacetylases—may serve as a versatile therapeutic target for cancer.
Finding a Needle in a Haystack
Authors: Farrell Ruth M.
Published: August 2011

A new microarray-based prenatal test identifies DNA microdeletions that may be missed by standard cytogenetics analyses.
Type 1 Interferon Induction of Natural Killer Cell Gamma Interferon Production for Defense during Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus Infection
Authors: Mack Ethan A. , Kallal Lara E. , Demers Delia A. , Biron Christine A.
Published: August 2011

Natural killer (NK) cells are equipped to innately produce the cytokine gamma interferon (IFN-γ) in part because they basally express high levels of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 4 (STAT4). Type 1 interferons (IFNs) have the potential to activate STAT4 and promote IFN-γ expression, but concurrent induction of elevated STAT1 negatively regulates access to the pathway. As a consequence, it has been difficult to detect type 1 IFN stimulation of NK cell IFN-γ during viral infections in the presence of STAT1 and to understand the evolutionary advantage for maintaining the pathway. The studies reported here evaluated NK cell responses following infections with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) in the compartment handling the earliest events after infection, the peritoneal cavity. The production of type 1 IFNs, both IFN-α and IFN-β, was shown to be early and of short duration, peaking at 30 h after challenge. NK cell IFN-γ expression was detected with overlapping kinetics and required activating signals delivered through type 1 IFN receptors and STAT4. It took place under conditions of high STAT4 levels but preceded elevated STAT1 expression in NK cells. The IFN-γ response reduced viral burdens. Interestingly, increases in STAT1 were delayed in NK cells compared to other peritoneal exudate cell (PEC) populations. Taken together, the studies demonstrate a novel mechanism for stimulating IFN-γ production and elucidate a biological role for type 1 IFN access to STAT4 in NK cells.

IMPORTANCEPathways regulating the complex and sometimes paradoxical effects of cytokines are poorly understood. Accumulating evidence indicates that the biological consequences of type 1 interferon (IFN) exposure are shaped by modifying the concentrations of particular STATs to change access to the different signaling molecules. The results of the experiments presented conclusively demonstrate that NK cell IFN-γ can be induced through type 1 IFN and STAT4 at the first site of infection during a period with high STAT4 but prior to induction of elevated STAT1 in the cells. The response mediates a role in viral defense. Thus, a very early pathway to and source of IFN-γ in evolving immune responses to infections are identified by this work. The information obtained helps resolve long-standing controversies and advances the understanding of mechanisms regulating key type 1 IFN functions, in different cells and compartments and at different times of infection, for accessing biologically important functions.
A multicentre RCT on community occupational therapy in Alzheimer's disease: 10 sessions are not better than one consultation
Authors: Voigt-Radloff Sebastian , Graff Maud , Leonhart Rainer , Schornstein Katrin , Jessen Frank , Bohlken Jens , Metz Brigitte , Fellgiebel Andreas , Dodel Richard , Eschweiler Gerhard , Vernooij-Dassen Myrra , Olde Rikkert Marcel , Hüll Michael
Published: August 2011

Objective

To compare the benefits and harms of a Dutch 10-session Community Occupational Therapy programme for patients with Alzheimer's disease with the impact of a one session consultation at home in German routine healthcare.

Design

A seven-centre, parallel group, active controlled randomised controlled trial. Patients and carers were not masked. Assessors were fully blind for treatment allocation for one of two primary-outcome measurements.

Setting

Patients' homes.

Participants

Patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease (Mini-Mental State Examination 14–24), living in the community with primary carer available and without severe depression or behavioural symptoms, were eligible.

Interventions

Experimental 10 home visits within 5 weeks by an occupational therapist, educating patients in the performance of simplified daily activities and in the use of aids to compensate for cognitive decline; and educating carers in coping with behaviour of the patient and in giving supervision to the patient. Control one home visit including individual counselling of patient and carer and explanation of a leaflet on coping with dementia in daily life.

Outcome measures

The primary outcome was the patient's daily functioning measured with the Interview of Deterioration in Daily activities in Dementia and the Perceive, Recall, Plan and Perform System of Task Analysis. Assessments were at baseline, 6, 16 and 26 weeks, with a postal assessment at 52 weeks.

Results

141 patients were 1:1 randomised to the experimental (N=71) and control group (N=70). Data for 54 and 50 participants were analysed. Patients' daily functioning did not differ significantly between the experimental and control group at week 6, 16, 26 or 52 and remained stable over 26 weeks in both groups. No adverse events were associated with the interventions.

Conclusions

In German healthcare, a Dutch 10-session community occupational therapy was not better than a one-session consultation for the daily functioning of patients with Alzheimer's disease. Further research on the transfer of complex psychosocial is needed.

International Clinical Trials Registry Platform

DRKS00000053; Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Health.
Genes differentially expressed under naphthoquinone-producing conditions in the entomopathogenic fungus Ophiocordyceps unilateralis
Authors: Amnuaykanjanasin Alongkorn , Panchanawaporn Sarocha , Chutrakul Chanikul , Tanticharoen Morakot
Published: August 2011

The ant-pathogenic fungus Ophiocordyceps unilateralis BCC1869 produces six naphthoquinone (NQ) derivatives. These NQs can be found in fungal-infected ants or produced in culture. Also, the NQs have antibacterial, anticancer, and antimalarial activities and are red pigments with potential for use as natural colorants. Suppressive subtractive hybridization identified genes that were expressed under NQ–producing conditions but not under nonproducing conditions. On potato dextrose agar, the mycelia produced red pigments and secreted them into the medium and as droplets on top of the colony. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis indicated that the red pigment was predominantly erythrostominone with small amounts of its derivatives. For suppressive subtractive hybridization, the cDNA from O. unilateralis cultures on complete medium agar cultures (lacking NQs) were subtracted from those on potato dextrose agar (which produce and secrete NQs). Sixty-six unique expressed sequence tags (ESTs) were identified and include five transporter genes, two transcriptional regulator genes, and several genes in secondary metabolism and biodegradation. The transporter genes include an ATP-binding cassette transporter gene OuAtr1 and a major facilitator superfamily transporter gene OuMfs1. Expression of selected ESTs was further validated using quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Gene expression result indicates that OuAtr1 and OuMfs1 were dramatically upregulated (136- and 29-fold increase, respectively) during the NQ–producing stage compared with the NQ–nonproducing stage. Upregulation of other genes was also detected. This EST collection represents the first group of genes identified from this potential biocontrol agent and includes candidate genes for production and secretion of the red NQs. Roles of these genes could be further determined using a functional analysis.
VERTEX VULNERABILITY PARAMETER OF GEAR GRAPHS
Authors: AYTAC AYSUN , TURACI TUFAN
Published: August 2011

For a vertex v of a graph G = (V,E), the independent domination number (also called the lower independence number) iv(G) of G relative to v is the minimum cardinality of a maximal independent set in G that contains v. The average lower independence number of G is [Formula: see text]. In this paper, this parameter is defined and examined, also the average lower independence number of gear graphs is considered. Then, an algorithm for the average lower independence number of any graph is offered.
AN ALTERNATIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF T-PARITY IN FERMION SECTOR AND THE CHANNEL $VV\to h\to\tau\bar{\tau}$ AT LHC
Authors: HAN XIAO-FANG , WANG LEI , ZHANG FENG
Published: August 2011

We modify the implementation of T-parity in the fermion sector (called LHT-III), where the mixing of top quark and T-even partner can be absent, and the Higgs mass quadratic divergence contributed by the top quark and a T-odd partner cancel each other. Besides, the Yukawa couplings of down-type quarks and leptons can be enhanced in this model, while these couplings are suppressed in other little Higgs models. Finally, we study the channel [Formula: see text] at LHC in several typical little Higgs models, and find that the rate in all these little Higgs models can have a sizable deviation from the SM prediction, especially for that the rate can only be enhanced in LHT-III, but suppressed in other little Higgs models. Therefore, the Higgs production process [Formula: see text] at LHC can provide a powerful way to probe these little Higgs models, especially for distinguishing the LHT-III from other little Higgs models.
PHYSICS POTENTIAL OF A 2540 km BASELINE SUPERBEAM EXPERIMENT
Authors: JOGLEKAR ANIKET , PRAKASH SUPRABH , RAUT SUSHANT K. , UMA SANKAR S.
Published: August 2011

We study the physics potential of a neutrino superbeam experiment with a 2540 km baseline. We assume a neutrino beam similar to the NuMI beam in medium energy configuration. We consider a 100 kton totally active scintillator detector at a 7 mr off-axis location. We find that such a configuration has outstanding hierarchy discriminating capability. In conjunction with the data from the present reactor neutrino experiments, it can determine the neutrino mass hierarchy at 3σ level in less than 5 years, if sin22θ13≥0.01, running in the neutrino mode alone. As a stand alone experiment, with a five-year neutrino run and a five-year anti-neutrino run, it can determine nonzero θ13 at 3σ level if sin22θ13≥7×10-3 and hierarchy at 3σ level if sin22θ13≥8×10-3. This data can also distinguish δ CP = π/2 from the CP conserving values of 0 and π, for sin22θ13≥0.02.
ESTIMATES FOR THE SOLUTION TO STOCHASTIC DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS DRIVEN BY A FRACTIONAL BROWNIAN MOTION WITH HURST PARAMETER H ∈ (⅓, ½)
Authors: BESALÚ MIREIA , NUALART DAVID
Published: August 2011

In this paper we establish precise estimates for the supremum norm for the solution of a dynamical system driven by a Hölder continuous function of order between ⅓ and ½ using the techniques of fractional calculus. As an application we deduce the existence of moments for the solutions to stochastic differential equations driven by a fractional Brownian motion with Hurst parameter H ∈(⅓, ½) and we obtain an estimate for the supremum norm of the Malliavin derivative.
ENTROPIC RISK MEASURES: COHERENCE VS. CONVEXITY, MODEL AMBIGUITY AND ROBUST LARGE DEVIATIONS
Authors: FÖLLMER HANS , KNISPEL THOMAS
Published: August 2011

We study a coherent version of the entropic risk measure, both in the law-invariant case and in a situation of model ambiguity. In particular, we discuss its behavior under the pooling of independent risks and its connection with a classical and a robust large deviations bound.
AN AVERAGING PRINCIPLE FOR TWO-SCALE STOCHASTIC PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
Authors: FU HONGBO , DUAN JINQIAO
Published: August 2011

Multiscale stochastic partial differential equations arise as models for various complex systems. An averaging principle for a class of stochastic partial differential equations with slow and fast time scales is established. Under suitable conditions, it is shown that the slow component converges to an effective dynamical system in the mean-square uniform sense.
INITIAL ENLARGEMENT IN A MARKOV CHAIN MARKET MODEL
Authors: GASBARRA DARIO , MORLANES JOSÉ IGOR , VALKEILA ESKO
Published: August 2011

Enlargement of filtrations is a classical topic in the general theory of stochastic processes. This theory has been applied to stochastic finance in order to analyze models with insider information. In this paper we study initial enlargement in a Markov chain market model, introduced by Norberg. In the enlarged filtration, several things can happen: some of the jumps times can be accessible or predictable, but in the original filtration all the jumps times are totally inaccessible. But even if the jumps times change to accessible or predictable, the insider does not necessarily have arbitrage possibilities.
MODELING OF FINANCIAL MARKETS WITH INSIDE INFORMATION IN CONTINUOUS TIME
Authors: KOHATSU-HIGA ARTURO , ORTIZ-LATORRE SALVADOR
Published: August 2011

We give a survey about the different approaches to model financial markets with inside information in continuous time. In particular, we consider the Karatzas–Pikovsky, Kyle–Back and the weak Kyle–Back approach. These three types of modeling are based on the enlargement of filtration problem, which we explain with some examples and use it for these three modeling approaches.
INVARIANT MANIFOLDS FOR STOCHASTIC MODELS IN FLUID DYNAMICS
Authors: MOHAMMED SALAH-ELDIN A.
Published: August 2011

This paper is a survey of recent results on the dynamics of Stochastic Burgers equation (SBE) and two-dimensional Stochastic Navier–Stokes Equations (SNSE) driven by affine linear noise. Both classes of stochastic partial differential equations are commonly used in modeling fluid dynamics phenomena. For both the SBE and the SNSE, we establish the local stable manifold theorem for hyperbolic stationary solutions, the local invariant manifold theorem and the global invariant flag theorem for ergodic stationary solutions. The analysis is based on infinite-dimensional multiplicative ergodic theory techniques developed by D. Ruelle [22] (cf. [20, 21]). The results in this paper are based on joint work of the author with T. S. Zhang and H. Zhao ([17–19]).
HOMOGENIZATION OF A PERIODIC DEGENERATE SEMILINEAR ELLIPTIC PDE
Authors: PARDOUX ÉTIENNE , SOW AHMADOU BAMBA
Published: August 2011

In this paper, a semilinear elliptic PDE with rapidly oscillating coefficients is homogenized. The novelty of our result lies in the fact that we allow the second order part of the differential operator to be degenerate in some portion of ℝd.

Our fully probabilistic method is based on the connection between PDEs and BSDEs with random terminal time and the weak convergence of a class of diffusion processes.
Economic rationale of high cost and slow delivery in software development
Authors: Wang Yifan , Wolf James R.
Published: August 2011

Software development process management has been widely recognized as a critical domain for project success, both within and outside of the IT profession. Unfortunately, this process has been anything but smooth in practice. Many software projects are delivered with extremely high costs and painful delivery delays. Although IT professionals are now equipped with better development tools and management knowledge. Still, many challenges associated with software development have yet to be overcome. There are still an unacceptably high number of software project failures. In this paper, we investigate the case where software project development is contracted to outside professionals. We find that, by leveraging delivery pace or cost performance measure, software client can improve its payoff while upholding software developer's payoff unchanged. In other words, high cost and slow delivery represent management control mechanism in the software development process.
Why Latino High School Students Select Computer Science as a Major
Authors: Zimmerman Thomas G. , Johnson David , Wambsgans Cynthia , Fuentes Antonio
Published: August 2011

This article reports on a public school that is succeeding in encouraging Latino high school students to select Computer Science (CS) as a major. The students attend a charter high school designed to encourage low-income Latino students to attend college and attain proficiency in English, Spanish, and computers. Using data from surveys and by analyzing test scores, the authors quantify the characteristics of students who are likely to choose CS as a major. A survey of 139 tenth- through twelfth-grade Latino students is used to determine factors that influence CS major selection. The survey includes questions from a previous study (836 high school math students from 9 public and private schools) as a control. Additional questions measure student interest in 20 STEM, business, and humanities subjects. Standardized test scores are correlated with factors affecting choice of CS as a major. Environment and intervention programs in, after, and outside of school are examined to consider their impact on student development. The article provides a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the relationship among academic environment and performance, subject interests, gender, and teaching methods that influence the interest of Latino high school students in choosing CS as a major.
Exploring Computer Science
Authors: Goode Joanna , Margolis Jane
Published: August 2011

This article will detail efforts to broaden participation in computing in urban schools through a comprehensive reform effort of curricular development, teacher professional development, and policy changes. Beginning with an account of the curricular development of
Exploring Computer Science
, we will describe the inquiry-based research that underlies these learning materials. Next, we argue that accompanying professional development that supports the curriculum is essential for supporting this inquiry-based approach to computer science instruction. We then explain the policy strategies used to designate this course as a college-preparatory elective and place it in 17 Los Angeles high schools. Finally, we share the initial results of how students experience this course and ongoing challenges encountered when working in the public school system. The article concludes with a discussion of how longitudinal reform effort requires a strong foundation and deep roots to successfully democratize computer science education.
Can the Utility of Anonymized Data be Used for Privacy Breaches?
Authors: Wong Raymond Chi-Wing , Fu Ada Wai-Chee , Wang Ke , Yu Philip S. , Pei Jian
Published: August 2011

Group based anonymization is the most widely studied approach for privacy-preserving data publishing. Privacy models/definitions using group based anonymization includes
k
-anonymity,
l
-diversity, and
t
-closeness, to name a few. The goal of this article is to raise a fundamental issue regarding the privacy exposure of the approaches using group based anonymization. This has been overlooked in the past. The group based anonymization approach by bucketization basically hides each individual record behind a group to preserve data privacy. If not properly anonymized, patterns can actually be derived from the published data and be used by an adversary to breach individual privacy. For example, from the medical records released, if patterns such as that people from certain countries rarely suffer from some disease can be derived, then the information can be used to imply linkage of other people in an anonymized group with this disease with higher likelihood. We call the derived patterns from the published data the foreground knowledge. This is in contrast to the background knowledge that the adversary may obtain from other channels, as studied in some previous work. Finally, our experimental results show such an attack is realistic in the privacy benchmark dataset under the traditional group based anonymization approach.
Liquid interface
Authors: Koh Jeffrey Tzu Kwan Valino , Karunanayaka Kasun , Sepulveda Jose , Tharakan Mili John , Krishnan Manoj , Cheok Adrian David
Published: August 2011

We present a new methodology based on ferromagnetic fluids in which the user can have direct interaction (input/output) through a tangible and malleable interface. Liquid Interfaces uses the physical qualities of ferromagnetic fluids in combination with capacitive, multi-touch technology, to produce a 3D, multi-touch interface where actuation, representation, and self-configuration occur through the malleable liquid, ferromagnetic fluid. This, combined with the ability to produce sound, enables users to create musical sculptures that can be morphed in real time by interacting directly with the ferromagnetic fluid.
On experimental algorithmics
Authors: Snodgrass Richard T.
Published: August 2011

Computer science is often divided into two camps, systems and theory, but of course the reality is more complicated and more interesting than that. One example is the area of "experimental algorithmics," also termed "empirical algorithmics." This fascinating discipline marries algorithm analysis, which is often done with mathematical proofs, with experimentation with real programs running on real machines.
New approaches to boolean quantifier elimination
Authors: Zengler Christoph , Kübler Andreas , Küchlin Wolfgang
Published: August 2011

We present four different approaches for existential Boolean quantifier elimination, based on model enumeration, resolution, knowledge compilation with projection, and substitution. We point out possible applications in the area of verification and we present preliminary benchmark results of the different approaches.
Candidate genes for panhypopituitarism identified by gene expression profiling
Authors: Mortensen Amanda H. , MacDonald James W. , Ghosh Debashis , Camper Sally A.
Published: August 2011

Mutations in the transcription factors PROP1 and PIT1 (POU1F1) lead to pituitary hormone deficiency and hypopituitarism in mice and humans. The dysmorphology of developing Prop1 mutant pituitaries readily distinguishes them from those of Pit1 mutants and normal mice. This and other features suggest that Prop1 controls the expression of genes besides Pit1 that are important for pituitary cell migration, survival, and differentiation. To identify genes involved in these processes we used microarray analysis of gene expression to compare pituitary RNA from newborn Prop1 and Pit1 mutants and wild-type littermates. Significant differences in gene expression were noted between each mutant and their normal littermates, as well as between Prop1 and Pit1 mutants. Otx2, a gene critical for normal eye and pituitary development in humans and mice, exhibited elevated expression specifically in Prop1 mutant pituitaries. We report the spatial and temporal regulation of Otx2 in normal mice and Prop1 mutants, and the results suggest Otx2 could influence pituitary development by affecting signaling from the ventral diencephalon and regulation of gene expression in Rathke's pouch. The discovery that Otx2 expression is affected by Prop1 deficiency provides support for our hypothesis that identifying molecular differences in mutants will contribute to understanding the molecular mechanisms that control pituitary organogenesis and lead to human pituitary disease.
Provider Discussion, Education, and Question-Asking about Control Medications during Pediatric Asthma Visits
Authors: Sleath Betsy , Carpenter Delesha M. , Ayala Guadalupe X. , Williams Dennis , Davis Stephanie , Tudor Gail , Yeatts Karin , Gillette Chris
Published: August 2011

Background. Few studies have explored how providers communicate about control medications during pediatric asthma visits.Objectives. The purpose of this study was to: (a) describe the extent to which providers discuss, educate, and ask children and their caregivers questions about control medications and (b) examine how child, caregiver, and provider characteristics are associated with provider communication about control medications during pediatric asthma visits.Methods. Children ages 8 through 16 with mild, moderate, or severe persistent asthma and their caregivers were recruited at five pediatric practices in nonurban areas of North Carolina. After audio-tape recording medical visits, caregivers completed questionnaires and children were interviewed. Generalized estimating equations were used to analyze the data.Results. Providers educated families about control medications during 61% of the visits, and they asked questions about control medications during 67% of visits. Providers were significantly more likely to discuss control medications if a child was taking a control medication, if the child had moderate to severe persistent asthma, and if the child was present for an asthma-related visit.Conclusion. Providers need to educate and ask more questions of families about side effects and how well control medications are working.