bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Esophageal Subepithelial Fibrosis in Children With Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Authors: Chehade Mirna , Sampson Hugh A , Morotti Raffaella A , Magid Margret S
Published: March 2009

Objectives:

Esophageal subepithelial fibrosis has been reported in adults with eosinophilic esophagitis (EE). Our goal was to determine the prevalence of esophageal fibrosis in children with EE, to determine whether it is specific for EE, and to correlate it with clinical and pathological features.

Patients and Methods:

Twenty‐one children with EE, 7 with eosinophilic gastroenteritis, 6 with gastroesophageal reflux disease, and 17 control children were studied. Distal esophageal biopsy specimens containing lamina propria were evaluated for extent of subepithelial collagen deposition by use of trichrome staining. Fibrosis was defined as abnormally increased collagen deposition, determined after the establishment of normal patterns on sections of esophagus from pediatric autopsies. Maximum numbers of intraepithelial and lamina propria eosinophils per high‐power field by hematoxylin and eosin staining and mast cells per high‐power field by immunohistochemical staining for tryptase were determined. Eosinophil and mast cell degranulation in epithelium and lamina propria was determined by use of immunohistochemical staining for major basic protein and tryptase, respectively. The patients' records were reviewed.

Results:

Esophageal subepithelial fibrosis was present in 12 (57%) patients with EE, 1 with eosinophilic gastroenteritis, 0 with gastroesophageal reflux disease, and 1 control patient. Forty‐two percent of those with fibrosis had dysphagia, 80% of whom had food impactions; these symptoms were present only in patients with fibrosis. Within the EE group, fibrosis was not associated with duration of symptoms or with increasing numbers of infiltrating eosinophils/mast cells, but it was associated with eosinophil degranulation.

Conclusions:

Esophageal subepithelial fibrosis is prevalent in EE and is specific for the disease in children. It is associated with dysphagia, and it may explain and predict future esophageal dysmotility. Fibrosis is related to the extent of esophageal eosinophil activation, as evidenced by eosinophil degranulation.
Re-evaluation of formulae for X-ray stress analysis in polycrystalline specimens with fibre texture
Authors: Yokoyama Ryouichi , Harada Jimpei
Published: March 2009

The stress–strain relation presented by Tanaka, Akiniwa, Ito & Inoue [Jpn Soc. Mech. Eng. Int. J. Ser. A, (1999),42, 224–234] for X-ray stress analysis for polycrystalline specimens with fibre texture is re-examined. By introducing the symmetry of reciprocal lattices for constituent crystallites, the physical meaning of taking an average of the strains observed by X-ray diffraction and the validity of the approximation used are made clear. By applying the present treatment to a cubic specimen in the m{\overline 3}m point group,hklBragg reflections withh≠k≠lsplit into doublets owing to the existence of crystallites with two different orientations. The formulae derived for cubic polycrystalline specimens with 〈111〉 fibre texture in the biaxial state in the Reuss model are in good agreement with those given previously. This technique is applicable to polycrystalline specimens of any symmetry with fibre texture.
MDASH: a multi-core-enabled program for structure solution from powder diffraction data
Authors: Griffin Thomas A. N. , Shankland Kenneth , van de Streek Jacco , Cole Jason
Published: March 2009

The simulated annealing approach to structure solution from powder diffraction data, as implemented in theDASHprogram, is easily amenable to parallelization at the individual run level. Modest increases in speed of execution can therefore be achieved by executing individualDASHruns on the individual cores of CPUs.
The context of tetanus toxoid application influences the outcome of antigen‐specific and self‐directed humoral immune response
Authors: Stojanović Marijana , Živković Irena , Inić‐Kanada Aleksandra , Petrušić Vladimir , Mićić Mileva , Dimitrijević Ljiljana
Published: March 2009

Results are presented concerning our attempts to create a suitable model system for studying the connection between microbial antigen (micAg), autoimmunity and autoimmune disease on the basis of hyper‐immunization and application of micAg in different contexts. Our research was focused on tetanus toxoid (TTd) as a model micAg. Non‐pretreated and complete Freund's adjuvant pretreated BALB/c mice were immunized with high doses of TTd mixed with glycerol or aluminum hydroxide as adjuvants. The main aims of the experiments were to evaluate the properties of induced humoral immune responses, evaluate the pathological potential of induced immune responses and determine possible correlations between the properties of a humoral immune response and its pathological potential. The production of TTd‐specific and self‐reactive β2‐glycoprotein I (β2‐GP I)‐specific antibodies (Abs) was detected in all groups but with specific, context‐related properties. Analysis of pregnancy‐related pathology (anti‐β2‐GP I Abs‐associated) showed differences in the pathological potential of the induced immune response. It was demonstrated that severity of pathology is positively correlated to the abundance of IgG that recognizes β2‐GP I adsorbed onto phosphatidylserine, and to IgG affinity. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that molecular mimicry, which results in generation of anti‐β2‐GP I Abs upon TTd immunization, is necessary but not sufficient for the development of pregnancy‐related pathology.
Pathogen profile update: Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: MICHIELSE CAROLINE B. , REP MARTIJN
Published: March 2009

Taxonomy: Kingdom Fungi; Phylum Ascomycota; Class Sordariomycetes; Order Hypocreales; Family Nectriaceae; genus Fusarium.

Host range: Very broad at the species level. More than 120 different formae speciales have been identified based on specificity to host species belonging to a wide range of plant families.

Disease symptoms: Initial symptoms of vascular wilt include vein clearing and leaf epinasty, followed by stunting, yellowing of the lower leaves, progressive wilting, defoliation and, finally, death of the plant. On fungal colonization, the vascular tissue turns brown, which is clearly visible in cross‐sections of the stem. Some formae speciales are not primarily vascular pathogens, but cause foot and root rot or bulb rot.

Economic importance: Can cause severe losses in many vegetables and flowers, field crops, such as cotton, and plantation crops, such as banana, date palm and oil palm.

Control: Use of resistant varieties is the only practical measure for controlling the disease in the field. In glasshouses, soil sterilization can be performed.

Useful websites: http://www.broad.mit.edu/annotation/genome/fusarium_group/MultiHome.html; http://www.fgsc.net/Fusarium/fushome.htm; http://www.phi‐base.org/query.php
Current approaches in haemophilic arthropathy of the hip
Authors: MANN H. A. , CHOUDHURY M. Z. B. , ALLEN D. J. , LEE C. A. , GODDARD N. J.
Published: March 2009

Summary.  The hip is considered to be one of the main load bearing joints of the body. In the haemophilic patient joint bleeds can be catastrophic, leading to long‐term joint degeneration and accompanying arthritis. In this review we explore the mechanisms of joint destruction, with particular consideration of the anatomy of the hip and how it may influence disease progression. We also review current strategies for treatment including hip replacement in the haemophilic patient and describe our experiences as a unit. Finally we evaluate future prospects in the management of hip disease in haemophilia.
Inhibitor development: patient‐determined risk factors
Authors: ASTERMARK J.
Published: March 2009

Summary.  The reasons that inhibitory factor VIII antibodies develop in only a fraction of patients with haemophilia A remain unclear, but studies of genetically related subjects have indicated that the immunological outcome of replacement therapy is to a large extent determined by patient‐related risk factors. Non‐genetic factors will also influence the inhibitor risk, since events challenging the immune system will elicit and stimulate immune regulatory processes with the potential of modifying the immune response. Further insight into the immunological pathways and risk factors involved will be important in order to better predict and prevent this complication. This review will briefly summarize the data obtained to date in unrelated and related subjects in the Malmö International Brother Study (MIBS) regarding genetic factors and discuss how these factors might interact with non‐genetically determined factors and events.
Experience with a third generation recombinant factor VIII concentrate (Advate®) for immune tolerance induction in patients with haemophilia A
Authors: VALENTINO L. A. , RECHT M. , DIPAOLA J. , SHAPIRO A. D. , PIPE S. W. , EWING N. , URGO J. , BULLOCK T. , SIMMONS M. , DEGUZMAN C.
Published: March 2009

Summary.  The development of an inhibitor represents one of the most challenging complications in patients with haemophilia A. Optimal management is immune tolerance induction (ITI), typically through the administration of high doses of factor VIII (FVIII) concentrate. Among 12 patients who underwent ITI using Advate, a third‐generation recombinant FVIII product that is free of animal and human protein additives, tolerance was achieved in nine (75%), including seven of 10 patients (70%) with high‐titre inhibitors. ITI is ongoing in two patients and not yet successful; immune tolerance failed in the third patient. The median time to success was 4.0 months for group as a whole and for patients with high‐titre inhibitors. Treatment was well tolerated, and no adverse events were observed. Advate was found to be equivalent to other FVIII products with regard to both ITI success rates and the incidence of adverse effects when used in these immune tolerance regimens.
The nature of Staphylococcus aureus MurA and MurZ and approaches for detection of peptidoglycan biosynthesis inhibitors
Authors: Blake Katy L. , O'Neill Alex J. , Mengin‐Lecreulx Dominique , Henderson Peter J. F. , Bostock Julieanne M. , Dunsmore Colin J. , Simmons Katie J. , Fishwick Colin W. G. , Leeds Jennifer A. , Chopra Ian
Published: March 2009

Staphylococcus aureus and a number of other Gram‐positive organisms harbour two genes (murA and murZ) encoding UDP‐N‐acetylglucosamine enolpyruvyl transferase activity for catalysing the first committed step of peptidoglycan biosynthesis. We independently inactivated murA and murZ in S. aureus and established that either can sustain viability. Purification and characterization of the MurA and MurZ enzymes indicated that they are biochemically similar in vitro, consistent with similar overall structures predicted for the isozymes by molecular modelling. Nevertheless, MurA appears to be the primary enzyme utilized in the staphylococcal cell. Accordingly, murA expression was approximately five times greater than murZ expression during exponential growth, and the peptidoglycan content of S. aureus was reduced by approximately 25% following inactivation of murA, but remained almost unchanged following inactivation of murZ. Despite low level expression during normal growth, murZ expression was strongly induced (up to sixfold) following exposure to inhibitors of peptidoglycan biosynthesis, which was not observed for murA. Strains generated in this study were validated as potential tools for identifying novel anti‐staphylococcal agents targeting peptidoglycan biosynthesis using known inhibitors of the pathway.
Dynamics of thromboxane level changes during early phase of allograft reperfusion
Authors: Dołęgowska Barbara , Błogowski Wojciech , Domański Leszek
Published: March 2009

Abstract: Background: Thromboxane (Tx) is a metabolite of arachidonic acid, which exerts a significant influence on kidney homeostasis, and may be involved in the pathogenesis of allograft rejection. The aim of this study was to: examine the dynamics of TxB2 changes during early phase of kidney allograft reperfusion, and analyze whether the observed changes in the concentrations and direction of TxB2 changes, are associated with post‐transplant graft function.

Methods: Sixty‐nine transplant recipients were divided into early, slow and delayed graft function group. Blood samples were collected directly before and during first the five minutes of allograft reperfusion. TxB2 concentrations were measured using ELISA. Creatinine and GFR levels were measured on the first, fifth, and 10th post‐transplant day.

Results: The results demonstrated that during reperfusion significant differences in TxB2 concentrations occur in all groups. Moreover, significant differences in the concentrations, as well as in the dynamics of TxB2 changes between patients with immediate graft function, and individuals with allograft activation problems, were noticed. These differences were associated with post‐transplant graft function.

Conclusions: Human renal transplantations are accompanied by changes in TxB2 concentrations, and the dynamics of TxB2 changes is associated with early post‐transplant graft function. Our results also highlight TxB2 as a potential pre‐transplant marker of post‐transplant allograft function.
RAS‐ING THE TRANSACTIONS OR THE COEFFICIENTS: IT MAKES NO DIFFERENCE*
Authors: Dietzenbacher Erik , Miller Ronald E.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT The biproportional RAS technique has become one of the most important tools to update, regionalize, or balance input–output tables. In this note, we rigorously prove that the estimation of the intermediate transactions matrix yields the same results as the estimation of the input coefficients matrix or the output coefficients matrix. We also show that this does not hold for any of the other updating procedures that have been commonly proposed as an alternative to RAS.
THE OPTIMAL DISTANCE TO PORT FOR EXPORTING FIRMS*
Authors: Gries Thomas , Naudé Wim , Matthee Marianne
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT Success in international trade depends, among other things, on distance from markets. Most new economic geography models focus on the distance between countries. In contrast, much less theorizing and empirical analysis have focused on how distances within a country—for instance, due to the location behavior of exporting firms—matter to international trade. In this paper, we contribute to the literature on the latter by offering a theoretical model to explain the optimal distance that an export‐oriented firm would locate from a port. We present empirical evidence in support of the model.
REGIONAL LABOR PRODUCTIVITY IN THE NETHERLANDS: EVIDENCE OF AGGLOMERATION AND CONGESTION EFFECTS*
Authors: Broersma Lourens , Oosterhaven Jan
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT This paper studies the impact of localization, urbanization, and diversification on regional labor productivity levels and growth. We find substantial effects, accounting for roughly half of the explained variation in the labor productivity differences within the Netherlands in the 1990s. Diversification, urbanization, and localization effects are significant and positive for productivity levels. These levels appear cointegrated. The error correction specification of productivity growth surprisingly reflects negative agglomeration effects. From the theoretical model it follows that congestion effects must have taken precedence over agglomeration effects during this period. Both agglomeration and congestion effects are dampened by job density in neighboring regions. Finally, policy simulations with the estimated model show that spatial concentration is more harmful to national productivity growth than spatial dispersion.
THE EFFECTS OF TRADE WITH DEVELOPING COUNTRIES ON THE REGIONAL DEMAND FOR SKILL IN THE U.S.: EVIDENCE FROM COUNTY DATA*
Authors: Kandilov Ivan T.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT Using county‐level data from the 1980s and 1990s and a county‐level trade measure that incorporates the county's industrial mix and patterns of international trade across industries, I provide new evidence that trade with developing countries raises the demand for skill and the skill premium in the U.S. Consistent with Heckscher–Ohlin, I find that trade driven by differences in factor endowments has an economically significant impact on local labor markets. The evidence suggests that when trade with developing countries rises, counties with higher skill endowment and greater employment in industries with larger trade shares experience greater relative demand for high‐skilled labor.
‘Views of professionals on aims and outcomes of transition for young people with learning disabilities’
Authors: Kaehne Axel , Beyer Stephen
Published: March 2009

Accessible summary

Leaving school can be difficult for many young people with learning disabilities. We wanted to know how teachers and support workers work together to make leaving school easier for young people with learning disabilities. Also, what do teachers think should be the next step for young people? Many young people want a job but when we asked teachers and support workers they said most people go to college and do not get a job. We asked teachers why this happens.

The paper reports the findings of a study of professionals in strategic and operational positions who were involved in transition planning for young people with learning disabilities. Respondents were asked to comment on what they regarded as the optimal aim and outcome of transition from school to post‐school placements. The results illustrate the problems and advantages of inter‐agency partnerships in delivering meaningful post‐school destinations for young people leaving school.
Masked repetition and translation priming in second language learners: A window on the time‐course of form and meaning activation using ERPs
Authors: Midgley Katherine J. , Holcomb Phillip J. , Grainger Jonathan
Published: March 2009

Event‐related potentials (ERPs) and masked translation priming served to examine the time‐course of form and meaning activation during word recognition in second language learners. Targets were repetitions of, translations of, or were unrelated to the immediately preceding prime. In Experiment 1 all targets were in the participants' L2. In Experiment 2 all targets were in the participants' L1. In Exp 1 both within‐language repetition and L1‐L2 translation priming produced effects on the N250 component and the N400 component. In Experiment 2 only within‐language repetition produced N250 effects, while both types of priming produced N400 effects. These results suggest rapid involvement of semantic representations during on‐going form‐level processing of printed words, and an absence of facilitatory connections between the form representations of non‐cognate translation equivalents in L2 learners. The implications for bilingual theories of word processing are discussed.
Association between longitudinal changes in depressive symptoms and plasma fibrinogen levels in school teachers
Authors: Von Känel Roland , Bellingrath Silja , Kudielka Brigitte M.
Published: March 2009

Depression and anxiety previously predicted coronary artery disease (CAD) risk. Inflammation contributes to CAD and shows an association with depression. We followed 57 teachers (mean 49±8 years) over 21 months and investigated whether changes in depressive and anxiety symptoms relate to those in the CAD risk and inflammation marker fibrinogen and vice versa. Increase in depressive symptoms and in fibrinogen levels were significantly correlated. While controlling for baseline depression rendered the association between changes in depression and fibrinogen nonsignificant, taking into account baseline fibrinogen levels maintained the predictive value of fibrinogen change for depression change. Anxiety and fibrinogen changes were not significantly correlated. This dynamic relationship between depression and the inflammatory biomarker fibrinogen might advance our knowledge about psychobiological mechanisms underlying both CAD and sickness behavior.
Molecular basis for amino acid sensing by family C G‐protein‐coupled receptors
Authors: Wellendorph P , Bräuner‐Osborne H
Published: March 2009

Family C of human G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) is constituted by eight metabotropic glutamate receptors, two γ‐aminobutyric acid type B (GABAB1–2) subunits forming the heterodimeric GABABreceptor, the calcium‐sensing receptor, three taste1 receptors (T1R1–3), a promiscuous L‐α‐amino acid receptor G‐protein‐coupled receptor family C, group 6, subtype A (GPRC6A) and seven orphan receptors. Aside from the orphan receptors, the family C GPCRs are dimeric receptors characterized by a large extracellular Venus flytrap domain which bind the endogenous agonists. Except from the GABAB1–2and T1R2–3 receptor, all receptors are either activated or positively modulated by amino acids. In this review, we outline mutational, biophysical and structural studies which have elucidated the interaction of the amino acids with the Venus flytrap domains, molecular mechanisms of receptor selectivity and the initial steps in receptor activation.
Transport of interleukin‐1 across cerebromicrovascular endothelial cells
Authors: Skinner RA , Gibson RM , Rothwell NJ , Pinteaux E , Penny JI
Published: March 2009

Background and purpose: The inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) has profound actions in the brain, causing neuronal cell death and exacerbating brain damage. While circulating levels are normally low, IL‐1 can be produced on the vascular side of the brain endothelium, and within the brain. The naturally occurring IL‐1 receptor antagonist has been administered peripherally in a Phase II trial in acute stroke patients; understanding how IL‐1 and IL‐1 receptor antagonist penetrate the brain is, therefore, of considerable importance.

Experimental approach: Anin vitroblood–brain barrier model was generated by co‐culture of porcine brain microvascular endothelial cells with astrocytes. The mechanisms of transcellular transport of IL‐1β and IL‐1 receptor antagonist were characterized in this model, using endocytosis inhibitors and IL‐1 receptor‐blocking antibodies.

Key results: Transcellular IL‐1β and IL‐1 receptor antagonist transport was temperature‐dependent and IL‐1β was transported with higher affinity than IL‐1 receptor antagonist. IL‐1β inhibited IL‐1 receptor antagonist transport more potently than IL‐1 receptor antagonist inhibited IL‐1β transport. Transport of IL‐1β and IL‐1 receptor antagonist was not via adsorptive‐mediated endocytosis, although inhibition of microtubule assembly significantly attenuated transport of both cytokines. An antibody directed to the type II IL‐1 receptor significantly reduced IL‐1β transport.

Conclusions and implications: These results are consistent with IL‐1 and IL‐1 receptor antagonist being transported across cultured cerebromicrovascular endothelial cells and suggest that IL‐1β transport may occur via a type II IL‐1 receptor‐dependent mechanism. Understanding IL‐1 transport into the brain may have benefits, particularly in enhancing penetration of IL‐1 receptor antagonist into the brain.
Epileptiform synchronization in the cingulate cortex
Authors: Panuccio Gabriella , Curia Giulia , Colosimo Alfredo , Cruccu Giorgio , Avoli Massimo
Published: March 2009

Purpose: The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC)—which plays a role in pain, emotions and behavior—can generate epileptic seizures. To date, little is known on the neuronal mechanisms leading to epileptiform synchronization in this structure. Therefore, we investigated the role of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission in epileptiform activity in this cortical area. In addition, since the ACC presents with a high density of opioid receptors, we studied the effect of opioid agonism on epileptiform synchronization in this brain region.

Methods: We used field and intracellular recordings in conjunction with pharmacological manipulations to characterize the epileptiform activity generated by the rat ACC in a brain slice preparation.

Results: Bath‐application of the convulsant 4‐aminopyridine (4AP, 50 μM) induced both brief and prolonged periods of epileptiform synchronization resembling interictal‐ and ictal‐like discharges, respectively. Interictal events could occur more frequently before the onset of ictal activity that was contributed byN‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Mu‐opioid receptor activation abolished 4AP‐induced ictal events and markedly reduced the occurrence of the pharmacologically isolated GABAergic synchronous potentials. Ictal discharges were replaced by interictal events during GABAergic antagonism; this GABA‐independent activity was influenced by subsequent mu‐opioid agonist application.

Conclusions: Our results indicate that both glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling contribute to epileptiform synchronization leading to the generation of electrographic ictal events in the ACC. In addition, mu‐opioid receptors appear to modulate both excitatory and inhibitory mechanisms, thus influencing epileptiform synchronization in the ACC.
Mazes, Conflict, and Paradox: Tools for Understanding Chronic Pain
Authors: Brown Cary A.
Published: March 2009

This article presents an argument for framing chronic pain within a complex adaptive systems (CAS) paradigm. The first aim of this article is to demonstrate how chronic pain can be framed as a CAS and how paradox, one of the core characteristics of a CAS, exists within the chronic pain experience. The second aim is to illustrate how paradox exists at multiple levels within the health care encounter and ongoing experience of chronic pain. Finally, the article will use the example of interactions at the patient/clinician level to illustrate how health care workers' efforts to deal with issues emergent from the range of paradoxes have for the most part been ineffective, and at times harmful, to persons experiencing chronic pain.

This article uses the example of chronic pain to explore how the manner in which health care providers and patients recognize and deal with paradoxes can either worsen the pain experience or help generate creative new ways to manage the chronic pain condition. The CAS principles discussed in this article hold application across a range of chronic conditions for which a traditional biomedical paradigm proves insufficient.
The Pracademic: An Agenda for Re‐Engaging Practitioners and Academics
Authors: POSNER PAUL L.
Published: March 2009

The synergy between theory and practice is a much sought after, but sometimes elusive, touchstone for the development of public administration programs in the United States. A healthy relationship is vital to the success of both practitioners and academics alike. While the field of public administration was in no small part premised on sustaining a healthy academic‐practitioner connection, there has been a retreat from engagement due to deeply rooted trends in both academic and practitioner environments. This article reviews these trends and suggests an agenda for reconnection of these vital linkages.
Diversifying Municipal Government Revenue Structures: Fiscal Illusion or Instability?
Authors: CARROLL DEBORAH A.
Published: March 2009

This paper examines (1) whether revenue diversification leads to greater instability as represented by revenue volatility, and (2) whether revenue complexity produces fiscal illusion as represented by increased public expenditures. These questions are answered by analyzing panel data on municipal governments between 1970 and 2002. The findings suggest that fiscal illusion does not occur among municipal governments, but revenue diversification does influence levels of volatility. However, the way in which municipalities diversify is important for achieving revenue stability. When diversification is considered in isolation, both tax and nontax diversification reduce revenue volatility. When diversification and complexity are considered simultaneously, the statistical effect of nontax diversification disappears. But, when a tax revenue structure is both diversified and complex, the likely outcome is greater revenue volatility rather than stability.
Accounting for Natural Disasters: The Impact of Earthquake Risk on California Municipal Bond Pricing
Authors: FOWLES JACOB , LIU GAO , MAMARIL CEZAR BRIAN
Published: March 2009

While Katrina has raised awareness of the potential impact of hurricanes on municipalities along the Gulf Coast, it remains unclear if the municipal bond market considers other types of natural disaster risk in other areas. We attempt to fill this gap by conducting an analysis to determine if underlying geologic earthquake risk affects interest costs for municipal bond issuers in California. We find that earthquake risk does matter in determining the interest costs for municipalities issuing debt, but not universally—only for municipal bonds issued after Hurricane Katrina and only in relation to underlying geologic earthquake risk.
Personality traits as prospective predictors of suicide attempts
Authors: Yen S. , Shea M. T. , Sanislow C. A. , Skodol A. E. , Grilo C. M. , Edelen M. O. , Stout R. L. , Morey L. C. , Zanarini M. C. , Markowitz J. C. , McGlashan T. H. , Daversa M. T. , Gunderson J. G.
Published: March 2009

Objective:  To examine higher order personality factors of negative affectivity (NA) and disinhibition (DIS), as well as lower order facets of impulsivity, as prospective predictors of suicide attempts in a predominantly personality disordered sample.

Method:  Data were analyzed from 701 participants of the Collaborative Longitudinal Personality Disorders Study with available follow‐up data for up to 7 years. Cox proportional hazards regression analyses was used to examine NA and DIS, and facets of impulsivity (e.g. urgency, lack of perseverance, lack of premeditation and sensation seeking), as prospective predictors of suicide attempts.

Results:  NA, DIS and all facets of impulsivity except for sensation seeking were significant in univariate analyses. In multivariate models which included sex, childhood sexual abuse, course of major depressive disorder and substance use disorders, only NA and lack of premeditation remained significant in predicting suicide attempts. DIS and the remaining impulsivity facets were not significant.

Conclusion:  NA emerged as a stronger and more robust predictor of suicide attempts than DIS and impulsivity, and warrants greater attention in suicide risk assessment. Distinguishing between facets of impulsivity is important for clinical risk assessment.
Use of antifungal agents for oral candidiasis: results of a national survey
Authors: Martínez‐Beneyto Y , López‐Jornet P , Velandrino‐Nicolás A , Jornet‐García V
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Background:  Candida albicans is an opportunistic agent that colonizes the oral mucosa.

Objectives:  To determine the attitude of Spanish dentists toward the oral treatment of candidiasis.

Method:  Between May and November 2006, a questionnaire was circulated to a random selection of 1134 dentists obtained from the General Dental Council’s main list. The survey consisted of a block of socio‐demographic items followed by another block related to the diagnosis and treatment of oral candidiasis. Replies to the questionnaire were received from 840 (74%) dentists.

Results:  50.4% of respondents were men, and 48.1% were female with a mean age of 38 and 12.2 years of professional experience. Miconazole was the most popular choice of antifungal agent prescribed (59.3%), followed by nystatin (57.7%) for topical use. Systemic antifungal agents were used by 30.20% of dentists, with a strong association between their use and the number of years in practice, gender and professional qualifications (P < 0.005).

Conclusion:  Most Spanish dentists make clinical diagnosis and treat oral infections by C. albicans themselves with topical drugs (miconazole and nystatin) as a first choice. Systemic treatments are more commonly chosen by male dentists with long professional experience, especially by stomatologists.
Lithium Restores Neurogenesis in the Subventricular Zone of the Ts65Dn Mouse, a Model for Down Syndrome
Authors: Bianchi Patrizia , Ciani Elisabetta , Contestabile Andrea , Guidi Sandra , Bartesaghi Renata
Published: March 2009

Down syndrome (DS), a high‐incidence genetic pathology, involves brain hypoplasia and mental retardation. Emerging evidence suggests that reduced neurogenesis may be a major determinant of brain underdevelopment in DS. To establish whether it is possible to improve neurogenesis in DS, Ts65Dn mice—the most widely used model for DS—and euploid mice were treated with control or lithium chow for 1 month. During the last 3 days animals received one daily injection of 5‐bromo‐2‐deoxyuridine (BrdU)—a marker of proliferating cells—and were sacrificed 24 h after the last injection. Neurogenesis was examined in the subventricular zone (SVZ), a region that retains a neurogenic potential across life. We found that Ts65Dn mice had less (−40%) BrdU+ cells than euploid mice, indicating severe proliferation impairment. Treatment with lithium increased the number of Brdu+ cells in both euploid and Ts65Dn mice. In the latter the number of Brdu+ cells became similar to that of untreated euploid mice. Our study shows that lithium is able to restore cell proliferation in the SVZ of the Ts65Dn mouse and point at treatments with mood stabilizers as a potential tool to improve neurogenesis in patients with DS.
Mid‐Range Streamflow Forecasts Based on Climate Modeling – Statistical Correction and Evaluation1
Authors: Ryu Jae H. , Palmer Richard N. , Wiley Matthew W. , Jeong Sangman
Published: March 2009

Abstract: Mid‐range streamflow predictions are extremely important for managing water resources. The ability to provide mid‐range (three to six months) streamflow forecasts enables considerable improvements in water resources system operations. The skill and economic value of such forecasts are of great interest. In this research, output from a general circulation model (GCM) is used to generate hydrologic input for mid‐range streamflow forecasts. Statistical procedures including: (1) transformation, (2) correction, (3) observation of ensemble average, (4) improvement of forecast, and (5) forecast skill test are conducted to minimize the error associated with different spatial resolution between the large‐scale GCM and the finer‐scale hydrologic model and to improve forecast skills. The accuracy of a streamflow forecast generated using a hydrologic model forced with GCM output for the basin was evaluated by forecast skill scores associated with the set of streamflow forecast values in a categorical forecast. Despite the generally low forecast skill score exhibited by the climate forecasting approach, precipitation forecast skill clearly improves when a conditional forecast is performed during the East Asia summer monsoon, June through August.
A Transactions Cost Approach to the Theoretical Foundations of Water Markets1
Authors: Slaughter Richard A.
Published: March 2009

Abstract: Water marketing is often cited as a means of alleviating the stresses attached to allocation of water use. Frequently, marketing is suggested in a context that implies substitution of competitive markets for the allocation based on the prior appropriation doctrine. This study examines water marketing from the perspective of a transactions cost approach to the private and broad social agreements (contracts) that support water allocation. It examines the major behavioral challenges faced by any contract, and the alternative approaches to those challenges, with respect to water allocation. It also examines the impact of market design on the existence of externalities, costs imposed by transactions on society and individuals not party to the transaction. It finds that the most robust water market designs will be found in systems with sufficient property rights protection to support investment, sufficient hydrologic information to provide accurate analysis of third party effects, conjunctive management of surface and groundwater, and a governance structure capable of administering the rules while not determining outcomes.
Evaluating and Extending CLIGEN Precipitation Generation for the Loess Plateau of China1
Authors: Chen Jie , Zhang Xun‐chang , Liu Wen‐zhao , Li Zhi
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Climate generator (CLIGEN) is widely used in the United States to generate long‐term climate scenarios for use with agricultural systems models. Its applicability needs to be evaluated for use in a new region or climate. The objectives were to: (1) evaluate the reproducibility of the latest version of CLIGEN v5.22564 in generating daily, monthly, and yearly precipitation depths at 12 stations, as well as storm patterns including storm duration (D), relative peak intensity (ip), and peak intensity (rp) at 10 stations dispersed across the Loess Plateau and (2) test whether an exponential distribution for generating D and a distribution‐free approach for inducing desired rank correlation between precipitation depth and D can improve storm pattern generations. Mean absolute relative errors (MAREs) for simulating daily, monthly, annual, and annual maximum daily precipitation depth across all 12 stations were 3.5, 1.7, 1.7, and 5.0% for the mean and 5.0, 4.5, 13.0, and 13.6% for the standard deviations (SD), respectively. The model reproduced the distributions of monthly and annual precipitation depths well (p > 0.3), but the distribution of daily precipitation depth was less well produced. The first‐order, two‐state Markov chain algorithm was adequate for generating precipitation occurrence for the Loess Plateau of China; however, it underpredicted the longest dry periods. The CLIGEN‐generated storm patterns poorly. It underpredicted mean and SD of D for storms ≥10 mm by −60.4 and −72.6%, respectively. Compared with D, ip, and rp were slightly better reproduced. The MAREs of mean and SD were 21.0 and 52.1% for ip, and 31.2 and 55.2% for rp, respectively. When an exponential distribution was used to generate D, MAREs were reduced to 2.6% for the mean and 7.8% for the SD. However, ip estimation became much worse with MAREs being 128.9% for the mean and 241.1% for the SD. Overall, storm pattern generation needs improvement. For better storm pattern generation for the region, precipitation depth, D, and rp may be generated correlatively using Copula methods.
Environmental, genomic and taxonomic perspectives on methanotrophic Verrucomicrobia
Authors: Op den Camp Huub J. M. , Islam Tajul , Stott Matthew B. , Harhangi Harry R. , Hynes Alexander , Schouten Stefan , Jetten Mike S. M. , Birkeland Nils‐Kåre , Pol Arjan , Dunfield Peter F.
Published: March 2009

Aerobic methanotrophic bacteria are capable of utilizing methane as their sole energy source. They are commonly found at the oxic/anoxic interfaces of environments such as wetlands, aquatic sediments, and landfills, where they feed on methane produced in anoxic zones of these environments. Until recently, all known species of aerobic methanotrophs belonged to the phylum Proteobacteria, in the classes Gammaproteobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria. However, in 2007–2008 three research groups independently described the isolation of thermoacidophilic methanotrophs that represented a distinct lineage within the bacterial phylum Verrucomicrobia. Isolates were obtained from geothermal areas in Italy, New Zealand and Russia. They are by far the most acidophilic methanotrophs known, with a lower growth limit below pH 1. Here we summarize the properties of these novel methanotrophic Verrucomicrobia, compare them with the proteobacterial methanotrophs, propose a unified taxonomic framework for them and speculate on their potential environmental significance. New genomic and physiological data are combined with existing information to allow detailed comparison of the three strains. We propose the new genus Methylacidiphilum to encompass all three newly discovered bacteria.
Heat Transfer Augmentation of Aqueous Suspensions of Nanodiamonds in Turbulent Pipe Flow
Authors: Torii Shuichi , Yang Wen-Jei
Published: March 2009

This paper aims to study the convective heat transfer behavior of aqueous suspensions of nanodiamond particles flowing through a horizontal tube heated under a constant heat flux condition. Consideration is given to the effects of particle concentration and Reynolds number on heat transfer enhancement. It is found that (i) significant enhancement of heat transfer performance due to suspension of nanodiamond particles in the circular tube flow is observed in comparison with pure water as the working fluid, (ii) the enhancement is intensified with an increase in the Reynolds number and the nanodiamond concentration, and (iii) substantial amplification of heat transfer performance is not attributed purely to the enhancement of thermal conductivity due to suspension of nanodiamond particles.
Prediction of Pressure Pulses Induced by Propeller
Authors: Koushan Kourosh
Published: March 2009

A method is presented for prediction of pressure pulses induced by propeller that requires a minimum number of inputs compared to similar theoretical models. The method is based on database of model-scale measurements carried out at MARINTEK since 1980. This database is analyzed with the help of artificial neural networks both for single screw and twin screw vessels for non-cavitating as well as cavitating case. An user-friendly Windows software is developed integrating the method. A short description of artificial neural network is presented. Model scale verification of the method shows good agreement between measured and predicted values.
Numerical Investigation of Bubble Cloud Dynamics in Shock Wave Lithotripsy
Authors: Tanguay Michel , Colonius Tim
Published: March 2009

To provide greater understanding of some of the phenomena in Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL), we implemented a two-phase continuum model for cavitating flow and applied it to the simulation of bubble cloud dynamics in an electro-hydraulic lithotripter. Through the combination of a WENO shock capturing scheme, curvilinear coordinates system and ensemble averaged mixture model, we computed the evolution of the lithotripsy shock wave and the concomitant cavitation field. In this paper, we present the results for three different configurations: a single-pulse lithotripter (free field), a single-pulse lithotripter with rigid artificial kidney stone at the focal point, and a dual-pulse lithotripter. Qualitative and quantitative comparisons of the numerical results to experimental observations are also included.
Supercavitation for High Speed Motion in Water: Prediction and Drag Reduction Problems
Authors: Serebryakov Vladimir V.
Published: March 2009

The investigation results of the supercavitation for high speed motion of prolate axisymmetric bodies in water are presented. The cavitation drag forming and drag reduction problems are considered on base studying of the peculiarities of the supercavitation flows for cavities with given pressure and with gas injections. The most attention is directed to the advancing of the understanding level of the problem as whole with account of influence of the key physical effects. Investigations are developed on the ground of the simple heuristic models, integral conservation laws, Slender Body Theory and another ordinary here approximations.
A Description of the Pressure Swirl Atomizer Internal Flow
Authors: Donjat D. , Estivalezes J. L. , Michau M.
Published: March 2009

The context of the present work is an investigation of the influence of geometry on the structure of the pressure swirl atomizer internal flow. Vizualisations and measurements techniques (LDA and PIV) are used on a large-scale pressure swirl atomizer. The behaviour of inlets jets and the development of the swirling flow are studied. Measurements of the aircore/liquid interface instabilities revealed the fundamental influence of inlet slots and exit orifice. Finally, a comparison between experimental results and a 2D numerical simulation is presented.
Devolatilization of Molten Polymers During Multiphase Flow in a Double Screw Extruder
Authors: Gestring Ingo , Mewes Dieter
Published: March 2009

Devolatilization is a thermal separation process in order to remove low molecular solvents from mixtures of polymers. Extruders with partly filled devolatilization zones are often used for this process. The two-phase flow of the polymer and the evaporating monomers and solvents is complex due to free surfaces. In film flow and two-phase bubbly flow the polymer is heated by dissipation and cooled by evaporation of the low molecular solvent. Temperature and concentration fields are difficult to predict in extruders because of the complex flow field. Therefore the experimental investigations are carried out in special designed apparatus with a flow field similar to that in extruders and in a transparent double-screw extruder to investigate the different flow mechanisms. In order to nucleate bubbles of the volatile component the polymers must be supersaturated and some kind of deformation must exist. The bubble nucleation is shear induced. The changes in concentration during two-phase bubbly flow result in decreasing temperatures. The mass transfer rates are increased due to the large inner surfaces of the bubbles in the foam and so is the cooling by evaporation. The higher the foam expansion the better is the mass transfer.
Effects of Bounce on Particle Transport, Deposition and Removal in Turbulent Channel Flow
Authors: Mazaheri Ali Reza , Ahmadi Goodarz , Zhang Haifeng
Published: March 2009

Effects of bounce on particle transport, deposition and removal in turbulent channel flow are studied. The pseudo-spectral method is used to generate the instantaneous turbulent fluid velocity field by Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) procedure. The particle equation of motion includes all the relevant hydrodynamic forces. In addition, simulation accounts for particle adhesion, resuspension and rebound processes. For particle bounce from the surface, the critical velocity is evaluated and is used in the analysis. Effects of bounce during particle-wall collisions on the deposition rate are also studied.
Oblique Evaporating Sprays in Gas-Solid Suspensions
Authors: Zhu Chao , Liu Guangliang , Wang Xiaohua
Published: March 2009

Evaporating sprays in gas-solid flows are constantly encountered in many industry processes, such as Fluid Catalytic Cracking in petroleum industry and condensed mode operation of polyethylene polymerization in polymer industry. The rapid evaporation of droplets in a gas-solid suspension flow can have significant effects on the gas-solid mixing near the spray nozzle regions. Typical effects of evaporating jets on gas-solid dynamics include the change of velocity of gas and solids phases, dilution effect on solids concentration, temperature reduction of all phases. On the other hand, the particle loading in the gas-solid flow can also significantly change the spray structures such as spray evaporation region, evaporation rate, and collision frequency among droplets and solids. In this paper, experimental as well as theoretical studies on evaporating liquid nitrogen spray into an air-particulate suspension flow are performed. Using laser enhanced visualization system and thermocouple profile probes, we obtain the spray trajectory and temperature distribution in the test section. A comprehensive analytic model has been developed to study the parametric effects of phase interactions with phase changes in all three phases. The study shows that the particle loading can considerably affect the spray structure. Inversely, the sprays also significantly change the velocity, concentration and temperature fields of the gas-solid flow. Both qualitative and quantitative comparisons give a good agreement between experimental results and modeling simulations.