bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Underwater Environment SDAP Method Using Multi Single-Beam Sonars
Authors: Yan Zheping , Chi Dongnan , Hou Shuping , Zheng Yalin
Published: November 2013

A new autopilot system for unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) using multi-single-beam sonars is proposed for environmental exploration. The proposed autopilot system is known as simultaneous detection and patrolling (SDAP), which addresses two fundamental challenges: autonomous guidance and control. Autonomous guidance, autonomous path planning, and target tracking are based on the desired reference path which is reconstructed from the sonar data collected from the environmental contour with the predefined safety distance. The reference path is first estimated by using a support vector clustering inertia method and then refined by Bézier curves in order to satisfy the inertia property of the UUV. Differential geometry feedback linearization method is used to guide the vehicle entering into the predefined path while finite predictive stable inversion control algorithm is employed for autonomous target approaching. The experimental results from sea trials have demonstrated that the proposed system can provide satisfactory performance implying its great potential for future underwater exploration tasks.
Still's Disease in a Pediatric Patient after Liver Transplantation
Authors: Meza Juan-Carlos , Muñoz-Buitrón Evelyn , Bonilla-Abadía Fabio , Cañas Carlos Alberto , Tobón Gabriel J.
Published: November 2013

Still's disease (SD) is a multisystemic inflammatory disease characterized by persistent arthritis and in many cases with fever of unknown origin. Diagnosis of SD is challenging because of nonspecific characteristics and especially in the case of a patient with solid organ transplantation and immunosuppressive therapy where multiple causes of fever are possible. There is no diagnostic test for SD, even though some useful diagnostic criteria or laboratory findings, such as serum ferritin levels, have been proposed, and useful imaging studies for the diagnosis or followup of SD have not been developed. We report the case of a 9-year-old child who presented with high grade fever associated with joint pain after a history of liver transplantation and immunosuppressive therapy. Laboratory tests showed increased acute phase reactants, elevated ferritin, and leukocytosis. An 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET) was performed identifying abnormal hypermetabolic areas localized in spleen, transplanted liver, and bone marrow secondary to inflammatory process. All infectious, autoimmune, and malignant causes were ruled out. A diagnosis of SD was performed and a steroid-based regimen was initiated with adequate response and no evidence of recurrence. To our knowledge this is the first case of SD following a solid organ transplant.
Sustainable Approach to Regenerating Residential Form and Density: Case in Dhaka
Authors: Zaman Quazi M. Mahtab-Uz , Laing Richard
Published: November 2013

This paper presents principles and praxis of sustainable approach to maintaining targeted “residential regeneration by density” yet achieving innovations in urban form in a contextual scenario of Dhaka City, the capital of Bangladesh. It is evident from the context that Dhaka is experiencing a dramatic transformation in residential density due to demographic changes during the past two decades due the concentration of social, administrative, institutional, recreational, small-scale industries, and associated housing facilities. The transformation is visible in residential built footprint, significantly due to the demand-driven and density-led market, originated from low rise and low density and transforming to high density high rise. This transformation has been consistently threatening social and environmental realm indicated by depletion of garden houses; reduction of public parks; shrinking walkways; deletion of setback for ventilation and sun shade from trees; slowing down mobility; and obstruction of physical and visual permeability. The paper discussed a pragmatic approach that professionals have adopted to control the density and to introduce scopes for innovative urban forms by way of applying floor area ratio (FAR) methods and further discusses the merits of the methodological process of exercising morphology with a set of new building rules without undermining the market demand.
Prostatic Carcinosarcoma with Lung Metastases
Authors: Furlan Stefanie R. , Kang David J. , Armas Armando
Published: November 2013

Carcinosarcoma of the prostate is an uncommon malignancy with poor long-term prognosis. The cancer is typically discovered at an advanced stage, and with less than 100 reported cases, there is limited literature concerning treatment options. Our patient presented with a history of benign prostatic hypertrophy, erectile dysfunction, and nocturia. Biopsy of his prostate indicated that the patient had prostatic adenocarcinoma, but histopathology after prostatectomy revealed carcinosarcoma. It has been over six years since this patient’s diagnosis of carcinosarcoma. Over this span of time, he has received a radical prostatectomy, radiotherapy, and androgen ablative therapy. The patient also developed multiple lung metastases that have been treated with video-assisted thoracic surgery and stereotactic body radiosurgery. Overall, he has remained unimpaired and in good condition despite his aggressive form of cancer.
Effects of Process Parameters on Microstructure of A2017 Alloy Strip Produced by a Novel Semisolid Rolling
Authors: Zhao Zhan-yong , Guan Ren-guo , Wang Xiang , Zhang Jian , Liu Chun-ming , Xu Guang-ming
Published: November 2013

In order to produce A2017 alloy strip, a novel semisolid rolling process was studied. The effects of process parameters on microstructure were investigated. The experimental results show that the grain size and roundness of A2017 alloy strip increase with the increment of casting temperature. The grain size of strip decreases firstly and then increases with the increment of vibration frequency. When the sloping plate length was between 500 mm and 600 mm, the casting temperature was between 650 ∘C and 680 ∘C, the roll speed was 0.087 [Formula: see text], and the vibration frequency was 50 Hz, A2017 alloy strip with a cross-sectional size of 4 × 160 mm was produced. The microstructure of strip is mainly composed of fine spherical or rosette grains with a certain elongation along rolling direction, and the average grain size is 36.4 μm.
Application of the Characteristic Time Expansion Method for Estimating Nonlinear Restoring Forces
Authors: Chen Yung-Wei
Published: November 2013

This paper proposes a characteristic time expansion method (CTEM) for estimating nonlinear restoring forces. Because noisy data and numerical instability are the main causes of numerical developing problems in an inverse field, a polynomial to identify restoring forces is usually adopted to eliminate these problems. However, results of the way doing are undesirable for a high order of polynomial. To overcome this difficulty, the characteristic length (CL) is introduced into the power series, and a natural regularization technique is applied to ensure numerical stability and determine the existence of a solution. As compared to previous solutions presented in other researches, the proposed method is a desirable and accurate solver for the problem of restoring the force in the inverse vibration problems.
Aesthetic Rehabilitation of Oligodontia in Primary Dentition with Adhesive Partial Denture
Authors: Correia Marília Ferreira , Nogueira Marianne Nicole , Bedran Telma Blanca , Palomari Spolidorio Denise Madalena
Published: November 2013

The primary teeth are essential for bone development and establishment of the arches on occlusion. Thus, the congenitally absence of teeth may trigger a shift in the balance of the occlusion, promoting disharmony in the structures of the maxilla-mandibular system. However, some interventions are possible to be performed in these cases even in pediatric patients, to redirect growth, preventing growth deviations and reestablishing the aesthetic. The aim of this paper is to report the treatment of a 4-year-old child presenting congenitally absence of mandibular central and lateral incisors and maxilla lateral incisors, which consequently compromises aesthetics, occlusal function, and the development and the functional growth of the bones. The oral rehabilitation was performed with an adhesive partial denture, which was able to restore the aesthetic and the occlusal function, therefore being a viable alternative in the treatment of this patient of little age.
Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes Expressing the Tissue Resident Memory Marker CD103 Are Associated with Increased Survival in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Webb John R. , Milne Katy , Watson Peter , deLeeuw Ronald J. , Nelson Brad H.
Published: November 2013

Background: The presence of CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) is associated with prolonged survival in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC) and other epithelial cancers. Survival is most strongly associated with intraepithelial versus intrastromal CD8+ TILs; however, the mechanisms that promote the intraepithelial localization of TILs remain poorly understood. We hypothesized that intraepithelial CD8+ TILs, like normal mucosal intraepithelial lymphocytes, might express CD103, a subunit of αE/β7 integrin, which binds E-cadherin on epithelial cells.

Methods: A large collection of primary ovarian tumors (HGSC, endometrioid, mucinous, and clear cell) was analyzed by immunohistochemistry for the presence of TIL-expressing CD103. The activation and differentiation status of CD103+ TILs were assessed by flow cytometry. The prognostic significance of TIL subsets was evaluated by Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Results: CD103+ TILs were present in all major ovarian cancer subtypes and were most abundant in HGSC. CD103+ TILs were preferentially localized to epithelial regions of tumors and were comprised predominantly of CD8+ T cells expressing activation (HLA-DR, Ki-67, PD-1) and cytolytic (TIA-1) markers, as well as CD56+ NK cells. Tumor infiltration by CD103+ TILs was strongly associated with patient survival in HGSC. Tumors containing CD8+ TILs that were CD103− showed poor prognosis equivalent to tumors lacking CD8+ TILs altogether.

Conclusions: CD103+ TILs comprise intraepithelial, activated CD8+ T cells, and NK cells and are strongly associated with patient survival in HGSC. CD103 may serve as a useful marker for enriching the most beneficial subsets of TILs for immunotherapy. Clin Cancer Res; 20(2); 434–44. ©2013 AACR.
Increasing the Antitumor Effect of an EpCAM-Targeting Fusion Toxin by Facile Click PEGylation
Authors: Simon Manuel , Stefan Nikolas , Borsig Lubor , Plückthun Andreas , Zangemeister-Wittke Uwe
Published: November 2013

Fusion toxins used for cancer-related therapy have demonstrated short circulation half-lives, which impairs tumor localization and, hence, efficacy. Here, we demonstrate that the pharmacokinetics of a fusion toxin composed of a designed ankyrin repeat protein (DARPin) and domain I–truncated Pseudomonas Exotoxin A (PE40/ETA″) can be significantly improved by facile bioorthogonal conjugation with a polyethylene glycol (PEG) polymer at a unique position. Fusion of the anti-EpCAM DARPin Ec1 to ETA″ and expression in methionine-auxotrophic E. coli enabled introduction of the nonnatural amino acid azidohomoalanine (Aha) at position 1 for strain-promoted click PEGylation. PEGylated Ec1-ETA″ was characterized by detailed biochemical analysis, and its potential for tumor targeting was assessed using carcinoma cell lines of various histotypes in vitro, and subcutaneous and orthotopic tumor xenografts in vivo. The mild click reaction resulted in a well-defined mono-PEGylated product, which could be readily purified to homogeneity. Despite an increased hydrodynamic radius resulting from the polymer, the fusion toxin demonstrated high EpCAM-binding activity and retained cytotoxicity in the femtomolar range. Pharmacologic analysis in mice unveiled an almost 6-fold increase in the elimination half-life (14 vs. 82 minutes) and a more than 7-fold increase in the area under the curve (AUC) compared with non-PEGylated Ec1-ETA″, which directly translated in increased and longer-lasting effects on established tumor xenografts. Our data underline the great potential of combining the inherent advantages of the DARPin format with bioorthogonal click chemistry to overcome the limitations of engineering fusion toxins with enhanced efficacy for cancer-related therapy. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(2); 375–85. ©2013 AACR.
Spaceflight and Ageing: Reflecting on Caenorhabditis elegans in Space
Authors: Honda Yoko , Honda Shuji , Narici Marco , Szewczyk Nathaniel J.
Published: November 2013

The prospect of space travel continues to capture the imagination. Several competing companies are now promising flights for the general population. Previously, it was recognized that many of the physiological changes that occur with spaceflight are similar to those seen with normal ageing. This led to the notion that spaceflight can be used as a model of accelerated ageing and raised concerns about the safety of individuals engaging in space travel. Paradoxically, however, space travel has been recently shown to be beneficial to some aspects of muscle health in the tiny worm Caenorhabditis elegans. C. elegans is a commonly used laboratory animal for studying ageing. C. elegans displays age-related decline of some biological processes observed in ageing humans, and about 35% of C. elegans' genes have human homologs. Space flown worms were found to have decreased expression of a number of genes that increase lifespan when expressed at lower levels. These changes were accompanied by decreased accumulation of toxic protein aggregates in ageing worms' muscles. Thus, in addition to spaceflight producing physiological changes that are similar to accelerated ageing, it also appears to produce some changes similar to delayed ageing. Here, we put forward the hypothesis that in addition to the previously well-appreciated mechanotransduction changes, neural and endocrine signals are altered in response to spaceflight and that these may have both negative (e.g. less muscle protein) and some positive consequences (e.g. healthier muscles), at least for invertebrates, with respect to health in space. Given that changes in circulating hormones are well documented with age and in astronauts, our view is that further research into the relationship between metabolic control, ageing, and adaptation to the environment should be productive in advancing our understanding of the physiology of both spaceflight and ageing.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Review
Authors: Romeo Pietro , Lavanga Vito , Pagani Davide , Sansone Valerio
Published: November 2013

Regenerative therapy is one of the most challenging and intriguing branches of modern medicine. Basic research has demonstrated the effectiveness of extracorporeal shockwaves (ESWT) in stimulating biological activities that involve intra-cell and cell-matrix interactions. These interactions are at the basis of the current clinical applications, and open the horizons to new applications in tissue regeneration. It is also feasible that shock waves could be used to treat various orthopaedic pathologies, removing the need for surgery. However, suitable translational studies need to be performed before ESWT can become a valid alternative to surgery.
Cross-Cultural Application of the Korean Version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire for Patients with Prostate Cancer - EORTC QLQ-PR25
Authors: Park Jinsung , Shin Dong Wook , Yun Seok Joong , Park Sung-Woo , Jeon Seong Soo , Kwak Cheol , Kwon Tae Gyun , Kim Hyung Jin , Ahn Hanjong
Published: November 2013

Objective: We evaluated the psychometric properties of the Korean version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-PR25 when applied to Korean prostate cancer (PC) patients. Methods: A total of 172 patients who underwent curative radical prostatectomy (RP) with or without adjuvant androgen deprivation therapy were asked to complete the Korean version of the EORTC QLQ-C30 and PR25 questionnaires 3 times (before and 3 and 6 months after RP). Psychometric evaluation of the questionnaire was conducted. Results: Multitrait scaling analysis showed satisfactory construct validity in most scales except for bowel symptoms and hormonal treatment-related symptoms. Internal consistency tested by Cronbach's α coefficient met the 0.70 criterion for the urinary symptom, sexual activity and sexual functioning scales at the all 3 time points. Known-group comparison analyses showed better quality-of-life (QOL) scores in patients with higher performance status, and higher hormonal treatment-related symptom scores in patients on hormonal treatment. Responsiveness to changes was in line with clinical implications over time after RP. Conclusions: Our results show that the EORTC QLQ-PR25 questionnaire has adequate levels in cross-cultural validity. The Korean version of the EORTC QLQ-PR25 is a generally reliable and robust instrument for the assessment of various QOL aspects that can be self-administered to Korean PC patients undergoing RP.
Effect of Parity on First-Trimester Uterine Artery Doppler Indices and Their Predictive Value for Pregnancy Complications
Authors: Dane Banu , Batmaz Gonca , Ozkal Fulya , Bakar Zehra , Dane Cem
Published: November 2013

Aim: To investigate the relationship between parity and first-trimester uterine artery Doppler indices and determine their predictive value for pregnancy complications. Methods: In 679 singleton pregnancies (388 parous and 291 nulliparous) attending for routine care at 11-14 weeks of gestation, we recorded maternal characteristics, medical and obstetric history, the presence of protodiastolic notching and measured uterine artery resistance index (RI). Results: Parous women had a lower prevalence of bilateral notches (64 vs. 77.6%; p = 0.0002), median level of RI did not show any significant difference. In parous cases complicated with pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) (0.78 vs. 0.70; p = 0.0003) or miscarriage (0.86 vs. 0.71; p = 0.0003) mean levels of RI were significantly higher than in the nulliparous cases. By using mean RI we could predict the cases with PIH (area under curve (AUC) 0.63; p = 0.012), early PIH (AUC 0.84; p < 0.0001) and miscarriage (AUC 0.87; p < 0.0001) in the group of parous women. Conclusion: Parity has a significant effect on uterine artery Doppler findings in the first trimester of pregnancy. In the group of parous women the mean level of RI had a higher predictive value for miscarriage, early PIH and PIH.
Using Benefit-Based Tailored Treatment to Improve the Use of Antihypertensive Medications
Authors: Sussman Jeremy , Vijan Sandeep , Hayward Rod
Published: November 2013

Background—

Current guidelines for prescribing antihypertensive medications focus on reaching specific blood pressure targets. We sought to determine whether antihypertensive medications could be used more effectively by a treatment strategy based on tailored estimates of cardiovascular disease events prevented.

Methods and Results—

We developed a nationally representative sample of American adults aged 30 to 85 years with no history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or severe congestive heart failure using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III. We then created a simulation model to estimate the effects of 5 years of treatment with treat-to-target (treatment to specific blood pressure goals) and benefit-based tailored treatment (treatment based on estimated cardiovascular disease event reduction) approaches to antihypertensive medication management. All effect size estimates were derived directly from meta-analyses of randomized trials. We found that 55% of the overall population of 176 million Americans would be treated identically under the 2 treatment approaches. Benefit-based tailored treatment would prevent 900 000 more cardiovascular disease events and save 2.8 million more quality-adjusted life-years, despite using 6% fewer medications over 5 years. In the 45% of the population treated differently by the strategies, benefit-based tailored treatment would save 159 quality-adjusted life-years per 1000 treated versus 74 quality-adjusted life-years per 1000 treated by the treat-to-target approach. The findings were robust to sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions—

We found that benefit-based tailored treatment was both more effective and required less antihypertensive medication than current guidelines based on treating to specific blood pressure goals.
Enhanced Expression of β3-Adrenoceptors in Cardiac Myocytes Attenuates Neurohormone-Induced Hypertrophic Remodeling Through Nitric Oxide Synthase
Authors: Belge Catharina , Hammond Joanna , Dubois-Deruy Emilie , Manoury Boris , Hamelet Julien , Beauloye Christophe , Markl Andreas , Pouleur Anne-Catherine , Bertrand Luc , Esfahani Hrag , Jnaoui Karima , Götz Konrad R. , Nikolaev Viacheslav O. , Vanderper Annelies , Herijgers Paul , Lobysheva Irina , Iaccarino Guido , Hilfiker-Kleiner Denise , Tavernier Geneviève , Langin Dominique , Dessy Chantal , Balligand Jean-Luc
Published: November 2013

Background—

β1-2-adrenergic receptors (AR) are key regulators of cardiac contractility and remodeling in response to catecholamines. β3-AR expression is enhanced in diseased human myocardium, but its impact on remodeling is unknown.

Methods and Results—

Mice with cardiac myocyte-specific expression of human β3-AR (β3-TG) and wild-type (WT) littermates were used to compare myocardial remodeling in response to isoproterenol (Iso) or Angiotensin II (Ang II). β3-TG and WT had similar morphometric and hemodynamic parameters at baseline. β3-AR colocalized with caveolin-3, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and neuronal NOS in adult transgenic myocytes, which constitutively produced more cyclic GMP, detected with a new transgenic FRET sensor. Iso and Ang II produced hypertrophy and fibrosis in WT mice, but not in β3-TG mice, which also had less re-expression of fetal genes and transforming growth factor β1. Protection from Iso-induced hypertrophy was reversed by nonspecific NOS inhibition at low dose Iso, and by preferential neuronal NOS inhibition at high-dose Iso. Adenoviral overexpression of β3-AR in isolated cardiac myocytes also increased NO production and attenuated hypertrophy to Iso and phenylephrine. Hypertrophy was restored on NOS or protein kinase G inhibition. Mechanistically, β3-AR overexpression inhibited phenylephrine-induced nuclear factor of activated T-cell activation.

Conclusions—

Cardiac-specific overexpression of β3-AR does not affect cardiac morphology at baseline but inhibits the hypertrophic response to neurohormonal stimulation in vivo and in vitro, through a NOS-mediated mechanism. Activation of the cardiac β3-AR pathway may provide future therapeutic avenues for the modulation of hypertrophic remodeling.
New Noctuidae (s.l.) species from the Korean fauna with description of a new species of Bryophila Treitschke, 1825 (Lepidoptera: Erebidae and Noctuidae)
Authors: AN JEONG-SEOP , CHOI SEI-WOONG , RONKAY LÁSZLÓ
Published: November 2013

Eight Erebidae and Noctuidae species are reported for the first time from Korea. The taxonomic positions of another two formerly misidentified species, Abrostola korbi and Diachrysia witti, are discussed. The Korean species of the Bryoleuca granitalis species-group are characterised and a new species of the group, Bryoleuca volodia sp. n. from Vietnam, is described and illustrated.
Neighbourhood attachment and city identity in ethnically mixed areas: Comparison of natives and migrants in four European cities
Authors: Toruńczyk-Ruiz Sabina
Published: November 2013

The micro-report presents a comparison of the level of place attachment and city identity for natives and migrants living in areas with relatively high shares of foreign migrants in four European cities: Bilbao, Lisbon, Thessalonica and Warsaw. The analyses are based on an international survey conducted in 2009/2010, and include a sample of 2,497 persons. The findings demonstrate that in most of the analysed areas, migrants tended to be more strongly attached to their neighbourhood than did natives. An opposite pattern was found only in Bilbao (Spain). However, compared to natives, migrants identified less with their city of residence. While future research is required to examine possible determinants of the differences in the level of neighbourhood attachment and city identity among native and migrant residents, the analyses suggest that natives living in diverse areas define themselves more strongly in relation to the whole city, while migrants do so in relation to their neighbourhood.
El afecto más allá de los muros y portones: el apego a los micro-barrios en la ciudad de Natal
Authors: Farias Tadeu M. , Pinheiro José Q.
Published: November 2013

El apego a los lugares es un vínculo afectivo positivo entre las personas y los ambientes cuya principal característica es la necesidad de permanecer en contacto con el lugar de apego. Frente a una situación de debilitación de las relaciones de vecindad y de su importancia para la comprensión del contexto socio-ambiental de las ciudades, este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar el apego a los micro-barrios en la ciudad de Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil. A través de un panel de expertos, fueron seleccionados dos micro-barrios del barrio Alecrim, caracterizados por un gran apego, y 11 residentes entrevistados. Las entrevistas muestran que el apego a los micro-barrios estudiados se fundamenta en las redes de apoyo y cooperación entre los residentes, la satisfacción con la proximidad de servicios, y el vínculo a los aspectos locales simbólicos y tradicionales. Las relaciones en esos micro-barrios son promovidas por una intención de establecer este tipo de vínculo.
Diferencias en el desarrollo del apego y la identidad con el lugar en residentes no nativos de ciudades de Israel y ciudades de Tenerife
Authors: Casakin Hernan , Ruiz Cristina , Hernández Bernardo
Published: November 2013

El estudio del apego y la identidad con el lugar ha dado lugar a numerosas definiciones y posicionamientos teóricos sobre la relación entre ambos. Una línea de investigación que permite clarificar el campo tiene que ver con la comparación de territorios culturalmente diferentes. El propósito de este artículo es comprobar si existen diferencias en el apego y la identidad de lugar en función del tiempo de residencia y del territorio elegido para inmigrar. Se administró un cuestionario con las escalas de apego e identidad con la ciudad a 138 residentes no nativos en la isla de Tenerife y 141 residentes no nativos en el estado de Israel. Los análisis muestran diferencias entre ambos lugares en el desarrollo de ambos vínculos en función del tiempo de residencia. Los resultados se discuten en base a la influencia de la cultura en el desarrollo de los vínculos con el lugar.
The town in my mind: How place attachment and identification are linked to place perception
Authors: Rollero Chiara
Published: November 2013

The relationship between individuals and environment implies an affective and a cognitive dimension, i.e. place attachment and place identification. While predictors of these two constructs have been extensively studied, their relationship with place perception has received less attention. The research here presented aimed to explore the subjective perceptions of the locality where one lives. Such perceptions were considered in relation to the degree of place attachment and social identification with inhabitants, and taking into account: sex, place of birth, length of residence, and location of meaningful relationships. 403 Italian undergraduates participated in the research. Results showed that semantic contents related to place perception are described in accordance to different levels of attachment and identification. Moreover, those who have experienced a relocation show a more stereotypical perception of the town than individuals who are studying in the place where they were born.
Validation of a Pattern Scaling Approach for Determining the Maximum Available Renewable Freshwater Resource
Authors: Ishizaki Yasuhiro , Yokohata Tokuta , Emori Seita , Shiogama Hideo , Takahashi Kiyoshi , Hanasaki Naota , Nozawa Toru , Ogura Tomoo , Nakaegawa Toshiyuki , Yoshimori Masakazu , Yoshida Ai , Watanabe Shigeru
Published: November 2013

A pattern scaling approach allows projection of regional climate changes under a wide range of emission scenarios. A basic assumption of this approach is that the spatial response pattern to global warming (scaling pattern) is the same for all emission scenarios. Precipitation minus evapotranspiration (PME) over land can be considered to be a measure of the maximum available renewable freshwater resource, and estimation of PME is fundamentally important for the assessment of water resources. The authors assessed the basic assumption of pattern scaling for PME by the use of five global climate models. A significant scenario dependency (SD) of the scaling pattern of PME was found over some regions. This SD of the scaling pattern of PME was mainly due to the SD and the nonlinear response of large-scale atmospheric and oceanic changes. When the SD of the scaling pattern of PME is significant in a target area, projections of the impact of climate change need to carefully take into consideration the SD. Although the SD of the anthropogenic aerosol scaling patterns tended to induce SDs of precipitation and evapotranspiration scaling patterns, the SDs of precipitation and evapotranspiration tended to cancel each other out. As a result, the SD of the PME scaling pattern tended to be insignificant over most regions where the SD of anthropogenic aerosol scaling patterns were significant. The authors could not find large impacts of land use change on PME scaling pattern, but the former may influence the latter on different time scales or spatial scales.
Alliances and Perception Profiles in the Iranian Reform Movement, 1997 to 2005
Authors: Kadivar Mohammad Ali
Published: November 2013

What accounts for the formation and disintegration of social movement alliances? The dominant approach in social movement studies stresses the role of political opportunities and threats in facilitating or undermining alliances between oppositional groups. This article argues, by contrast, that the convergence and divergence of contenders’ perceptions mediate between political opportunities and shifting alliances. Whereas previous studies conceptualize perceptions as global assessments of actors’ environments, I disaggregate three dimensions of the concept: optimism about state elites, optimism about state institutions, and optimism about contentious collective action. The Iranian Reform Movement of 1997 to 2005 offers a nearly ideal case for the study of perceptions and alliances, because it encompasses a variety of opposition groups whose alliances formed and disintegrated over the course of the movement’s rise and decline. This article examines shifting perceptions of opportunity among these groups and documents how these perceptions affected alliances, independent of state repression and groups’ ultimate goals.
A Practical Solution to Optimizing the Reliability of Teaching Observation Measures Under Budget Constraints
Authors: Meyer J. Patrick , Liu Xiang , Mashburn Andrew J.
Published: November 2013

Researchers often use generalizability theory to estimate relative error variance and reliability in teaching observation measures. They also use it to plan future studies and design the best possible measurement procedures. However, designing the best possible measurement procedure comes at a cost, and researchers must stay within their budget when designing a study. In this study, we applied the LaGrange multiplier method to obtain facet sample size equations that minimize relative error variance (hence maximize reliability) under budget constraints. We did this for a crossed design and three nested designs that are more typical of data collection in teaching observation studies. Using an example budget and variance components similar to those found in practice, we demonstrate the use of these equations. We also show the way variance components from fully crossed designs can be combined to use our equations for a nested design.
Cooperative Effects of FGF-2 and VEGF-A in Periodontal Ligament Cells
Authors: Yanagita M. , Kojima Y. , Kubota M. , Mori K. , Yamashita M. , Yamada S. , Kitamura M. , Murakami S.
Published: November 2013

We previously demonstrated that topical application of fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2 enhanced periodontal tissue regeneration. Although angiogenesis is a crucial event for tissue regeneration, the mechanism(s) by which topically applied FGF-2 induces angiogenesis in periodontal tissues has not been fully clarified. In this study, we investigated whether FGF-2 could induce vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A expression in periodontal ligament (PDL) cells and whether cell-to-cell interactions between PDL cells and endothelial cells could stimulate angiogenesis. FGF-2 induced VEGF-A secretion from MPDL22 cells (mouse periodontal ligament cell line) in a dose-dependent manner. Transwell and wound-healing assays revealed that co-stimulation with FGF-2 plus VEGF-A synergistically stimulated the migration of MPDL22 cells. Interestingly, co-culture of MPDL22 cells with bEnd5 cells (mouse endothelial cell line) also stimulated VEGF-A production from MPDL22 cells and tube formation by bEnd5 cells. Furthermore, time-lapse analysis revealed that MPDL22 cells migrated close to the tube-forming bEnd5 cells, mimicking pericytes. Thus, FGF-2 induces VEGF-A expression in PDL cells and induces angiogenesis in combination with VEGF-A. Cell-to-cell interactions with PDL cells also facilitate angiogenesis.
Adhesion Forces and Composition of Planktonic and Adhering Oral Microbiomes
Authors: Wessel S.W. , Chen Y. , Maitra A. , van den Heuvel E.R. , Slomp A.M. , Busscher H.J. , van der Mei H.C.
Published: November 2013

The oral microbiome consists of a planktonic microbiome residing in saliva and an adhering microbiome (the biofilm adhering to oral hard and soft tissues). Here we hypothesized that possible differences in microbial composition of the planktonic and adhering oral microbiome on teeth can be related to the forces by which different bacterial species are attracted to the tooth surface. The relative presence of 7 oral bacterial species in saliva and biofilm collected from 10 healthy human volunteers was determined twice in each volunteer by denaturing-gradient-gel electrophoresis. Analysis of both microbiomes showed complete separation of the planktonic from the adhering oral microbiome. Next, adhesion forces of corresponding bacterial strains with saliva-coated enamel surfaces were measured by atomic force microscopy. Species that were found predominantly in the adhering microbiome had significantly higher adhesion forces to saliva-coated enamel (-0.60 to -1.05 nN) than did species mostly present in the planktonic microbiome (-0.40 to -0.55 nN). It is concluded that differences in composition of the planktonic and the adhering oral microbiome are due to small differences in the forces by which strains adhere to saliva-coated enamel, providing an important step in understanding site- and material-specific differences in the composition of biofilms in the oral cavity.
Can Intangible Investment Explain the UK Productivity Puzzle? A Response and Comment
Authors: Martin Bill , Rowthorn Robert
Published: November 2013

This note responds to the recent critique by Goodridge, Haskel and Wallis (GHW) of our 2012 study of Britain's productivity puzzle. We show that a correct reworking of the latest official data on changes in labour composition overturns GHW's main criticism. We also question the strength of the empirical evidence offered by GHW in support of their alternative explanations of the productivity puzzle.
What Is Managerialism?
Authors: Klikauer Thomas
Published: November 2013

The term ‘managerialism’ has been widely used but theoretical publications on managerialism remain rare while theory development continues to be insufficient. This article is a contribution to the current discussion on managerialism. Managerialism is a deeply ideological project transcending its traditional position when entering into society. The following theoretical rather than empirical article sets out to present a short overview of the current debate on managerialism, seeking to deliver some preliminary approximations on a possible definition of managerialism and its ideological project. The second part highlights what distinguishes managerialism from neo-liberalism. It is followed by a brief discussion on ideology. Clarifications on managerialism and ideology set the scene for a few preliminary introductory thoughts in ‘Early Signposts for a Future Critical Theory of Managerialism’. The conclusion provides a brief emancipatory note on what lies beyond managerialism.
Reconfigurable fixture locating layout for compliant sheet metal welded assemblies subjected to welding force variations
Authors: Faraz Zahid , Waheed ul Haq Syed , Baqai Aamer Ahmed , Tarar Waseem Akram , Ali Liaqat
Published: November 2013

Reconfigurable sheet metal fixtures are used to assemble sheet metal product families of similar locating layouts. These have to maintain locating and clamping layout fidelity for the entire range of a product family. Locating and clamping regions of a sheet metal part tend to dislocate and distort once subjected to nonequalized resistance spot welding guns. The resulted working regions are different in location and size from the original ones. In this article, Monte Carlo simulations are used by the authors to investigate the expected size and location of the working regions of parts in a sheet metal family subjected to random resistance spot welding forces. In the case study, proposed methodology is applied to an available automobile underbody floor panel family. Resulted working regions after the probabilistic deflection analysis are different from the initial ones both in size and location. The results show that by incorporating the random nonequalized clamping forces, the size of the working regions for fixturing elements is increased. Also, the possibility of designing a fixture that cannot assemble the full range of parts is reduced.
An experimental investigation on micro-milling of polymethyl methacrylate components with nanometric surface roughness
Authors: Jiao Feifei , Cheng Kai
Published: November 2013

Micro-optical components made from polymethyl methacrylate are increasingly in demand. This article presents an experimental investigation into diamond micro-milling of polymethyl methacrylate components with nanometric surface roughness and its application perspectives. The experimental micro-milling trials with a chemical vapour deposition diamond ball endmill are conducted on a self-developed ultra-precision micro-milling machine (UltraMill) featuring high precision and high dynamic performance. Surface roughness of micro-milled slots using different micro-milling strategies is measured with white light interferometer. Results show that when feed and cutting orientations are perpendicular, smaller surface roughness can be obtained. Micro-milling is carried out on 2 × 2 mm2 areas by applying different micro-milling strategies and process parameters. The results demonstrate that the micro-milling strategy which can generate good surface roughness in slot micro-milling cannot produce expected surface roughness on such a large area (2 × 2 mm2), and machining dynamics plays an important role. By applying two-way joint micro-milling strategy and adjusting process parameters, an optical surface is obtained with roughness of 8.717 nm.
Thermal behavior of integral Al2O3-based ceramic molds for fabricating gas turbine blades
Authors: ZL Lu , L Zhao , YN Li , HH Wu , DC Li
Published: November 2013

Integrating ceramic shell and ceramic core for the fabrication of gas turbine blade is a promising method based on stereolithography and gelcasting technologies. But the cracking in the integral Al2O3-based ceramic mold takes place readily during casting process. The effect of hydrostatic pressure and thermal shock resulting from high-temperature liquid metal on the stress in Al2O3-based ceramic mold was respectively investigated, and the thickness of ceramic shell was also studied. The results show that the thermal stress is the main reason for the cracking in Al2O3-based ceramic mold, and the thickness of ceramic shell has a significant effect on thermal shock of liquid metal. The optimal value of Al2O3-based ceramic shell thickness is 9 mm so as to decrease its thermal stress effectively. Compared with micron-sized Y2O3 powders, nano-Y2O3 powders are more beneficial to improve high-temperature fracture strength of Al2O3 ceramic mold. Finally, a gas turbine blade is successfully fabricated.
Nonconscious Learning From Crowded Sequences
Authors: Atas Anne , Faivre Nathan , Timmermans Bert , Cleeremans Axel , Kouider Sid
Published: November 2013

Can people learn complex information without conscious awareness? Implicit learning—learning without awareness of what has been learned—has been the focus of intense investigation over the last 50 years. However, it remains controversial whether complex knowledge can be learned implicitly. In the research reported here, we addressed this challenge by asking participants to differentiate between sequences of symbols they could not perceive consciously. Using an operant-conditioning task, we showed that participants learned to associate distinct sequences of crowded (nondiscriminable) symbols with their respective monetary outcomes (reward or punishment). Overall, our study demonstrates that sensitivity to sequential regularities can arise through the nonconscious temporal integration of perceptual information.
The Relationship Between Executive Functions and Quality of Life in Adults With ADHD
Authors: Stern Adi , Pollak Yehuda , Bonne Omer , Malik Elad , Maeir Adina
Published: November 2013

Objective: Adult ADHD is associated with impaired quality of life (QoL) and deficient executive function (EF). Given the absence of studies examining the relationship between EF and health-related quality of life (HRQL) in this population, the purpose of the present study was to do so, by the use of rating scales and tests. Method: Adults with ADHD ( n = 81) completed ADHD and EF questionnaires and a neuropsychological battery. Results: Small to large significant correlations were found between EF ratings and HRQL for most of the variables. No significant correlations were found between all but one EF test and HRQL. Both ADHD symptoms and EF rating, but not the EF test, were found to have a unique contribution to the HRQL. Conclusion: These results strengthen the ecological validity of the EF rating scales and their utility in identifying EF deficits with real-world implications for adults with ADHD.
Modeling probability of additional cases of natalizumab-associated JCV sero-negative progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Carruthers Robert L , Chitnis Tanuja , Healy Brian C
Published: November 2013

JCV serologic status is used to determine PML risk in natalizumab-treated patients. Given two cases of natalizumab-associated PML in JCV sero-negative patients and two publications that question the false negative rate of the JCV serologic test, clinicians may question whether our understanding of PML risk is adequate. Given that there is no gold standard for diagnosing previous JCV exposure, the test characteristics of the JCV serologic test are unknowable. We propose a model of PML risk in JCV sero-negative natalizumab patients. Using the numbers of JCV sero-positive and -negative patients from a study of PML risk by JCV serologic status (sero-positive: 13,950 and sero-negative: 11,414), we apply a range of sensitivities and specificities in order calculate the number of JCV-exposed but JCV sero-negative patients (false negatives). We then apply a range of rates of developing PML in sero-negative patients to calculate the expected number of PML cases. By using the binomial function, we calculate the probability of a given number of JCV sero-negative PML cases. With this model, one has a means to establish a threshold number of JCV sero-negative natalizumab-associated PML cases at which it is improbable that our understanding of PML risk in JCV sero-negative patients is adequate.
Paradoxical expressions of natriuretic peptide receptor-C and neutral endopeptidase account for C-type natriuretic peptide decline during the progression of experimental obstructive nephropathy
Authors: Hu Peng , Zhao Xue Qi , Wang Jing , Kong Hai Bo , Hu Bo , Lu Ling , Qin Yuan Han
Published: November 2013

Introduction:

C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) selectively binds to the guanylyl cyclase coupled natriuretic peptide receptor (NPR)-B and exerts more potent antihypertrophic and antifibrotic properties. Elimination of CNP occurs mainly by neutral endopeptidase (NEP) and NPR-C.

Methods:

We established a rat model of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) to examine the continuous change of the CNP expression and to assess the correlations of NPR-B, NPR-C, NEP with CNP in the obstructed kidneys.

Results:

The expressions of CNP mRNA and protein in the obstructed kidneys tended to be higher immediately after ligation and declined at later time points compared to sham-operated rats, measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and western blot analysis. Subsequent correlation analysis indicated that CNP mRNA was positively correlated with NPR-B mRNA ( r=+0.673, p<0.05). In addition, the increased expression of NPR-C ( r=−0.943 and −0.837 for mRNA and protein respectively, p<0.05) and NEP ( r=−0.687 and −0.823 for mRNA and protein respectively, p<0.05) were accompanied by a signiﬁcant decline in CNP.

Conclusions:

A high level of CNP may contribute to the elevated expression of NPR-B in the early phase of UUO. More interestingly, paradoxical expressions of NPR-C and NEP may account for the decline of CNP in the obstructed kidneys.
Increasing patients’ ability to identify their physicians with a photo album: a prospective study
Authors: Hu Ping-An , Zhu Shai-Hong , Fan Zhi-Li , Wang Lian , Gao Chang-Qing
Published: November 2013

Objectives

Patients in teaching hospitals often encounter difficulty in correctly identifying their physicians. We hypothesized that a photo album of physicians might increase the ability of patients to correctly identify their physicians and hence conducted this study to test the hypothesis.

Design

A prospective study was conducted.

Setting

Department of Surgery, The Third XiangYa Hospital.

Participants

The patients were divided into two groups on admission: group A as intervention group ( n = 75) and group B as control group ( n = 94). All the patients were verbally informed of their medical team but only the patients in group A (the intervention group) were also shown the photos of their medical team.

Main outcome measures

One day before being discharged, the patients in group A (the intervention group) were asked to return the photo albums, and all the patients from both groups were asked to give the names of their caring physicians prior to departure from the hospital.

Results

Only 53% of the patients (50 out of 94) in group B (the control group) could give at least one of their physicians’ name, while 85% of the patients (64 out of 75) in group A (the intervention group) could tell at least one of their physicians’ name; there is a significant difference ( p < 0.005, 95% CI, 17.4–44.7%).

Conclusion

Patients’ ability to identify their physicians can be significantly increased with a photo album.