bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sedentary behaviour interventions in young people: a meta-analysis
Authors: Biddle Stuart JH , O'Connell Sophie , Braithwaite Rock E
Published: August 2011

Background

There is increasing concern about the time young people spend in sedentary behaviour (‘sitting time’), especially with the development of attractive home-based electronic entertainment. This may have deleterious health effects.

Purpose

To ascertain, through a meta-analytic review, whether interventions targeted at reducing sedentary behaviours in young people are successful.

Method

ERIC, MedLine, PsychInfo, SportDiscus and the Cochrane Library databases were searched up to 2010. Titles and abstracts of identified papers were examined against inclusion criteria. Included papers were coded by three researchers.

Results

17 papers, including 17 independent samples (N=4976), met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. There was a small but significant effect in favour of sedentary behaviour reduction for intervention groups (Hedges' g = − 0.192; SE = 0.056; 95% CI = −0.303 to −0.082; p = 0.001). Moderator analyses produced no significant between-moderator results for any of the intervention or study characteristics, although trends were evident.

Conclusion

Behaviour change interventions targeting reductions in sedentary behaviour have been shown to be successful, although effects are small. More needs to be known about how best to optimise intervention effects.
Preclinical acute ischemic stroke modeling
Authors: Mehra Manik , Henninger Nils , Hirsch Joshua A , Chueh Juyu , Wakhloo Ajay K , Gounis Matthew J
Published: August 2011

Preclinical ischemic stroke is at the crossroads in search of reliable and robust simulation models as past experiences with their translation from the laboratory to the standard of clinical care have often been disappointing. The efficacy of neuroprotective agents is still elusive, and the use of thrombolytics alone is limited to the narrow time window of presentation from the onset of the deficit. Hence, the focus has shifted to interventional revascularization to salvage the parenchyma at the risk of infarction. As the burden of disease morbidity and mortality is so enormous, neurointerventionalists have adopted a more aggressive approach to mechanical revascularization with the limited approved tools available—the Penumbra and the MERCI retrieval system, and the recently incorporated stent retrievers. In fact, the interventional space is among the fastest growing fields in stroke research today. Assessing treatment efficacy in these scenarios is infinitely complex as the heterogeneity of the cerebrovasculature, physical and mechanical nature of the occlusive embolus and the time of presentation are all confounders in assessing treatment outcomes. As no single thromboembolic model is apt to address all of these questions, an integrated methodology with a combination of both in vitro and in vivo assessment needs to be adopted. This involves clinically relevant thromboembolic analogs in device evaluation in vascular replicas, thromboembolic stroke induction in large animal gyrencephalic ischemic stroke models for thrombolytic, imaging and neuroprotection research and a native cerebrovascular target for evaluation of the safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy devices.
SEMANTIC COMPUTING AND PRIVACY: A CASE STUDY USING INFERRED GEO-LOCATION
Authors: FRIEDLAND GERALD , CHOI JAEYOUNG
Published: August 2011

This paper presents an experiment that allows the inference over data published in social networks, resulting in a potentially severe privacy leak, more specifically the inference of geo-location resulting in the potential of cybercasing attacks. We present an algorithm that allows the inference of the geo-location of YouTube and Flickr videos based on the tag descriptions. Using the locations, we find people where we can infer both the home address as well as the fact that they are currently on vacation, which makes them potential targets for burglary. By doing so we repeat an experiment from the literature that was originally meant to show the potential dangers of geo-tagging but replacing the geo-tags with Semantic Computing methods. We conclude that the only way to tackle potential threats like this is for researchers to develop an enhanced notion of privacy for Semantic Computing.
Laparoscopic Drainage of a Hepatic Echinococcal Cyst: A Case Report
Authors: Goldin Steven B. , Mateka James J. L. , Schnaus Michael J. , Dahal Sujat
Published: August 2011

The Echinococcus granulosus tapeworm causes hepatic echinococcosis. It is endemic in the Mediterranean region, Middle East, and South America. Human infection is secondary to accidental consumption of ova in feces. Absorption through the bowel wall and entrance into the portal circulation leads to liver infection. This case involves a 34 y/o Moroccan male with an echinococcal liver cyst. His chief complaint was RUQ pain. The patient was treated with albendazole and praziquantel. His PMH and PSH was noncontributory. Patient was not on any other medications. ROS was otherwise unremarkable. The patient was AF VSS. He was tender to palpation in RUQ. Liver function tests were normal. Echinococcal titers were positive. CT demonstrated a large cystic lesion in the right lobe of the liver measuring 13.5 cm in diameter. The patient underwent successful laparoscopic drainage and excision of echinococcal cyst. Final pathology demonstrated degenerating parasites (E. granulosus) of echinococcal cyst.
Laparoscopic-Assisted Recipient Nephrectomy and Recipient Kidney Procurement during Orthotopic Living-Related Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Mikhalski Dimitri , Wissing Karl Martin , Bollens Renaud , Abramowicz Daniel , Donckier Vincent , Hoang Anh-Dung
Published: August 2011

Advanced atherosclerosis or thrombosis of iliac vessels can constitute an absolute contraindication for heterotopic kidney transplantation. We report the case of a 42-year-old women with end-stage renal disease due to lupus nephritis and a history of bilateral thrombosis of iliac arteries caused by antiphospholipid antibodies. Occlusion had been treated by the bilateral placement of wall stents which precluded vascular anastomosis. The patient was transplanted with a right kidney procured by laparoscopic nephrectomy from her HLA semi-identical sister. The recipient had left nephrectomy after laparoscopical transperitoneal dissection. The donor kidney was orthotopically transplanted with end-to-end anastomosis of graft vessels to native renal vessels and of the graft and native ureter. Although, the patient received full anticoagulation because of a cardiac valve and antiphospholipid antibodies, she had no postoperative complication in spite of a short period of delayed graft function. Serum creatinine levels three months after transplantation were at 1.0 mg/dl. Our case documents that orthotopical transplantation of laparoscopically procured living donor kidneys at the site of recipient nephrectomy is a feasible procedure in patients with surgical contraindication of standard heterotopic kidney transplantation.
Light-Emitting Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Gipson Kyle , Ellerbrock Brett , Stevens Kathryn , Brown Phil , Ballato John
Published: August 2011

Inorganic nanoparticles doped with optically active rare-earth ions and coated with organic ligands were synthesized in order to create fluorescent polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) nanocomposites. Two different aromatic ligands (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA and 2-picolinic acid, PA) were utilized in order to functionalize the surface of Tb3+ : LaF3nanocrystals. The selected aromatic ligand systems were characterized using infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis, rheological measurements, and optical spectroscopy. Nanoparticles producedin situwith the PMMA contained on average 10 wt% loading of Tb3+ : LaF3at a 6 : 1 La : Tb molar ratio and ~7 wt% loading of 4 : 1 La : Tb molar ratio for the PA and ASA systems, respectively. Measured diameters ranged from457±176 nm to150±105 nm which is indicative that agglomerates formed during the synthesis process. Both nanocomposites exhibited the characteristic Tb3+emission peaks upon direct ion excitation (350 nm) and ligand excitation (PA : 265 nm and ASA : 275 nm).
The Role of GABAergic Inhibition in Ocular Dominance Plasticity
Authors: Heimel J. Alexander , van Versendaal Daniëlle , Levelt Christiaan N.
Published: August 2011

During the last decade, we have gained much insight into the mechanisms that open and close a sensitive period of plasticity in the visual cortex. This brings the hope that novel treatments can be developed for brain injuries requiring renewed plasticity potential and neurodevelopmental brain disorders caused by defective synaptic plasticity. One of the central mechanisms responsible for opening the sensitive period is the maturation of inhibitory innervation. Many molecular and cellular events have been identified that drive this developmental process, including signaling through BDNF and IGF-1, transcriptional control by OTX2, maturation of the extracellular matrix, and GABA-regulated inhibitory synapse formation. The mechanisms through which the development of inhibitory innervation triggers and potentially closes the sensitive period may involve plasticity of inhibitory inputs or permissive regulation of excitatory synapse plasticity. Here, we discuss the current state of knowledge in the field and open questions to be addressed.
Biodegradable Polymers Induce CD54 on THP-1 Cells in Skin Sensitization Test
Authors: Jung Yeon Suk , Kato Reiko , Tsuchiya Toshie
Published: August 2011

Currently, nonanimal methods of skin sensitization testing for various chemicals, biodegradable polymers, and biomaterials are being developed in the hope of eliminating the use of animals. The human cell line activation test (h-CLAT) is a skin sensitization assessment that mimics the functions of dendritic cells (DCs). DCs are specialized antigen-presenting cells, and they interact with T cells and B cells to initiate immune responses. Phenotypic changes in DCs, such as the production of CD86 and CD54 and internalization of MHC class II molecules, have become focal points of the skin sensitization test. In this study, we used h-CLAT to assess the effects of biodegradable polymers. The results showed that several biodegradable polymers increased the expression of CD54, and the relative skin sensitizing abilities of biodegradable polymers were PLLG (75 : 25) < PLLC (40 : 60) < PLGA (50 : 50) < PCG (50 : 50). These results may contribute to the creation of new guidelines for the use of biodegradable polymers in scaffolds or allergenic hazards.
Left Subclavian Artery Pseudoaneurysm after a Traffic Accident: A Case Report
Authors: Enamorado-Enamorado J. , Egea-Guerrero J. J. , Revuelto-Rey J. , Gordillo-Escobar E. , Herrera-Melero C.
Published: August 2011

The left subclavian artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare entity with few cases reported in the literature. Most injuries were related to iatrogenic manipulation with catheters for canalization of central lines. In rare cases, this injury has been described secondary to a blunt trauma. We present an unusual case of pseudoaneurysm that includes the origin of left subclavian artery in the context of severe multiple injuries after a traffic accident. There were not clavicular or rib fractures, or another type of chest trauma to justify such a vascular injury. Once the injuries that were life threatening for the patient were stabilized, it proceeded to the treatment of the pseudoaneurysm by placing an endovascular prosthesis successfully with a favorable clinical evolution.
Comment on “Simulation of Surface Ozone Pollution in the Central Gulf Coast Region Using WRF/Chem Model: Sensitivity to PBL and Land Surface Physics”
Authors: Pleim Jonathan E.
Published: August 2011

A recently published meteorology and air quality modeling study has several serious deficiencies deserving comment. The study uses the weather research and forecasting/chemistry (WRF/Chem) model to compare and evaluate boundary layer and land surface modeling options. The most serious of the study's deficiencies is reporting WRF/Chem results for both meteorological and chemical quantities using the asymmetric convective model version 2 (ACM2). While the ACM2 is a valid model option for WRF, it has not yet been implemented for the chemical portion of the WRF/Chem model. Hence, the reported air quality modeling results using ACM2 are invalid. Furthermore, publication of these results gives the erroneous impression that the ACM2 model is not well suited for air quality applications when, in fact, it is the default boundary layer model in the community multiscale air quality (CMAQ) model.
Cystic Lymphangioma as a Cause of Massive Abdominal Hemorrhage
Authors: Llapur E. Consuegra , Alvarez J. M. López , Quevedo O. Pérez , Lemaur M. Valerón , Nesic S. Pavlovic , Urgellés X. García
Published: August 2011

We report the case of two-year-old girl with hypovolemic shock caused by bleeding from an abdominal cystic lymphangioma. The whole blood was contained within a large omental bag that could be completely removed. There were no associated anomalies. The child progressed satisfactorily.
Embolisation of Posttraumatic Superior Mesenteric Artery Pseudoaneurysm in a Patient with Short Bowel Syndrome Preceding Bowel Transplantation
Authors: Vidjak Vinko , Novacic Karlo , Slavica Marko
Published: August 2011

Penetrating abdominal trauma often causes bowel injuries which may lead to “short bowel syndrome” which is a potential indication for bowel transplantation. Posttraumatic pseudoaneurysms of abdominal arteries are often a result of penetrating abdominal trauma. We report a successful embolisation of posttraumatic superior mesenteric artery (SMA) branch pseudoaneurysm using microcoil, in a patient with short bowel syndrome who was successfully transplanted three months after embolisation.
Quadricuspid Aortic Valve Diagnosed by Cardiac CT
Authors: D'Mello Nisha , Tandon Vikas , Chow Benjamin J. W.
Published: August 2011

Quadricuspid aortic valves are rare congenital anomalies which can be diagnosed by various imaging modalities. Described is the case of a 77 year old female with a quadricuspid aortic valve diagnosed by cardiac CT.
An Unusual Case of Asystole following Penetrating Neck Trauma and Anoxic Brain Injury
Authors: Nayor Matthew , Berliner Alissa J. , Chow Grant V. , Spragg David D.
Published: August 2011

Bradycardia and transient asystole are well-described sequelae of a myriad of neurologic insults, ranging from focal to generalized injuries. Increased vagal tone also predisposes many individuals, particularly adolescents, to transient neurally mediated bradyarrhythmia. However, prolonged periods of sinus arrest without junctional or ventricular escape are quite rare, even after significant neurologic injury. We describe the case of a 17-year-old man who presented with anoxic brain injury secondary to hemorrhagic shock from a stab wound to the neck. His recovery was complicated by prolonged periods of sinus arrest and asystole, lasting over 60 seconds per episode. This case illustrates that sustained asystolic episodes may occur following significant neurologic injury, and may continue to recur even months after an initial insult. Pacemaker implantation for such patients should be strongly considered.
Clear Cell Carcinoma of the Endometrium Causing Paraneoplastic Retinopathy: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Cybulska Paulina , Navajas Eduardo V. , Altomare Filiberto , Bernardini Marcus Q.
Published: August 2011

We reviewed the literature for cases in which gynecologic malignancies caused paraneoplastic retinopathy and ultimately led to blindness. Twenty-eight cases were derived from the literature, and one unique case is described from our institution. Of these 28 cases, 14 patients were diagnosed with endometrial cancer, 7 with ovarian cancer, 5 with cervical cancer, 1 fallopian tube cancer and 1 with concomitant endometrial and ovarian cancers. The average age of patients at the time of diagnosis was 64 years (range, 35–89 years). Typically, ocular manifestations antedate symptoms of the underlying carcinoma by 3–12 months. Information regarding the interval from visual symptoms to time of death is limited, but ranges from several months to several years. Our report is the first to document a clear cell carcinoma of the endometrium causing paraneoplastic retinopathy and is the first to review all gynecologic malignancies associated with visual paraneoplastic syndromes.
Inner Ear Disease and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: A Critical Review of Incidence, Clinical Characteristics, and Management
Authors: Riga M. , Bibas A. , Xenellis J. , Korres S.
Published: August 2011

Background. This study is a review of the incidence, clinical characteristics, and management of secondary BPPV. The different subtypes of secondary BPPV are compared to each other, as well as idiopathic BPPV. Furthermore, the study highlights the coexistence of BPPV with other inner ear pathologies.Methods. A comprehensive search for articles including in the abstract information on incidence, clinical characteristics, and management of secondary BPPV was conducted within the PubMed library.Results. Different referral patterns, different diagnostic criteria used for inner ear diseases, and different patient populations have led to greatly variable incidence results. The differences regarding clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes may support the hypothesis that idiopathic BPPV and the various subtypes of secondary BPPV do not share the exact same pathophysiological mechanisms.Conclusions. Secondary BPPV is often under-diagnosed, because dizziness may be atypical and attributed to the primary inner ear pathology. Reversely, a limited number of BPPV patients may not be subjected to a full examination and characterized as idiopathic, while other inner ear diseases are underdiagnosed. A higher suspicion index for the coexistence of BPPV with other inner ear pathologies, may lead to a more integrated diagnosis and consequently to a more efficient treatment of these patients.
Correlations between Hippocampal Neurogenesis and Metabolic Indices in Adult Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Perera Tarique D. , Lu Dunyue , Thirumangalakudi Lakshmi , Smith Eric L. P. , Yaretskiy Arkadiy , Rosenblum Leonard A. , Kral John G. , Coplan Jeremy D.
Published: August 2011

Increased neurogenesis in feeding centers of the murine hypothalamus is associated with weight loss in diet-induced obese rodents (Kokoeva et al., 2005 and Matrisciano et al., 2010), but this relationship has not been examined in other species. Postmortem hippocampal neurogenesis rates and premortem metabolic parameters were statistically analyzed in 8 chow-fed colony-reared adult bonnet macaques. Dentate gyrus neurogenesis, reflected by the immature neuronal marker, doublecortin (DCX), and expression of the antiapoptotic gene factor, B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2), but not the precursor proliferation mitotic marker, Ki67, was inversely correlated with body weight and crown-rump length. DCX and BCL-2 each correlated positively with blood glucose level and lipid ratio (total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein). This study demonstrates that markers of dentate gyrus neuroplasticity correlate with metabolic parameters in primates.
Tuberculous Otitis Media with Facial Paralysis: A Clinical and Microbiological Diagnosis—A Case Report
Authors: Quaranta Nicola , Petrone Paolo , Michailidou Alexandra , Miragliotta Luisa , Santantonio Marilina , Del Prete Raffaele , Mosca Adriana , Miragliotta Giuseppe
Published: August 2011

The tuberculosis of the ear is rare, and in most cases the clinical picture resembles that of a chronic otitis media. The diagnosis is often delayed, and this can lead to irreversible complications such as hearing loss and/or facial paralysis. In view of its rare occurrence, we report a case of primary tuberculous otitis media in a 87-year-old female patient. The diagnosis was made on the basis of both histological and microbiological findings. In particular, gene amplification techniques such as real-time polymerase chain reaction are useful method for rapid diagnosis and detecting tuberculous bacilli usually present at very low number. Early diagnosis is essential for the prompt institution of antituberculous therapy.
Generalized Synchronization between Two Complex Dynamical Networks with Time‐Varying Delay and Nonlinear Coupling
Authors: Bian Qiuxiang , Yao Hongxing
Published: August 2011

The generalized synchronization between two complex networks with nonlinear coupling and time‐varying delay is investigated in this paper. The novel adaptive schemes of constructing controller response network are proposed to realize generalized synchronization with the drive network to a given mapping. Two specific examples show and verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Myrrh Inhibits LPS-Induced Inflammatory Response and Protects from Cecal Ligation and Puncture-Induced Sepsis
Authors: Kim Min-Sun , Bae Gi-Sang , Park Kyoung-Chel , Koo Bon Soon , Kim Byung-Jin , Lee Hye-Jin , Seo Sang-Wan , Shin Yong Kook , Jung Won-Seok , Cho Jung-Hee , Kim Youn-Chul , Kim Tae-Hyeon , Song Ho-Joon , Park Sung-Joo
Published: August 2011

Myrrh has been used as an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent. However, effect of myrrh on peritoneal macrophages and clinically relevant models of septic shock, such as cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), is not well understood. Here, we investigated the inhibitory effect and mechanism(s) of myrrh on inflammatory responses. Myrrh inhibited LPS-induced productions of inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, and tumor necrosis factor-αbut not of interleukin (IL)-1βand IL-6 in peritoneal macrophages. In addition, Myrrh inhibited LPS-induced activation of c-jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) but not of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38, and nuclear factor-κB. Administration of Myrrh reduced the CLP-induced mortality and bacterial counts and inhibited inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, administration of Myrrh attenuated CLP-induced liver damages, which were mainly evidenced by decreased infiltration of leukocytes and aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase level. Taken together, these results provide the evidence for the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial potential of Myrrh in sepsis.
Automated Volumetric Growth Plate Measurement Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Monitoring Skeletal Toxicity in Children Treated on Investigational Drug Trials
Authors: Kim AeRang , Dombi Eva , Solomon Jeffrey , Fox Elizabeth , Balis Frank M. , Widemann Brigitte C.
Published: August 2011

Purpose: Targeted anticancer agents have been reported to have side effects on the skeletal system such as thickening of the epiphyseal growth plate in preclinical models of juvenile, but not mature, animals. Careful evaluation of skeletal toxicity in the clinical development of targeted therapies for children is required. We validated a novel method to measure the growth plate volume using MRI.

Experimental Design: A semiautomated method of volumetric growth plate measurement was developed on the basis of the differences of pixel intensity of the growth plate from surrounding bone on T1 sagittal MRI. Two observers measured the femoral growth plate volume and thickness on three different days using 20 pediatric knee MRIs obtained at the NIH. Five subjects had two knee MRIs obtained on the same day to evaluate intrasubject reproducibility.

Results: Volumetric analysis showed low intraobserver variability, with the coefficient of variation for the two observers ranging from 0.2% to 6.1%. Interobserver correlation was 0.99, and good concordance was shown with a mean volume difference of −1.8 mm3. One-dimensional measurements had poorer intra and interobserver consistency. No statistically significant differences in volumetric measurements were observed between the two scans done on the same day in five subjects (P = 0.5).

Conclusions: MRI volumetric growth plate measurement is a reproducible and sensitive method to evaluate meaningful growth plate volume changes over time. This tool, along with close monitoring of height and laboratory evaluations for bone metabolism, may be used to evaluate potential bone and growth toxicities of children enrolled in trials of investigational drugs. Clin Cancer Res; 17(18); 5982–90. ©2011 AACR.
A Polymorphic −844T/C in FasL Promoter Predicts Survival and Relapse in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Sung Wen-Wei , Wang Yao-Chen , Cheng Ya-Wen , Lee Ming-Ching , Yeh Kun-Tu , Wang Lee , Wang John , Chen Chih-Yi , Lee Huei
Published: August 2011

Purpose: Fas ligand (FasL) −844T/C polymorphism (rs763110) has a demonstrated association with lung cancer risk. FasL −844CC with higher FasL expression has been suggested to contribute to tumor progression via immune escape. However, the impact of FasL −844T/C polymorphism on the clinical outcome of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains to be identified.

Experimental Design: A total of 385 adjacent normal lung tissues from patients with NSCLC were collected to determine FasL −844T/C polymorphism by PCR-based restriction fragment length polymorphism. FasL mRNA and protein expression in lung tumors were evaluated by real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. The prognostic value of FasL −844T/C polymorphism on survival and relapse was determined by Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards models.

Results: The FasL −844CC genotype had higher prevalence in those with advanced tumors than in those with early tumors (P = 0.008). In addition, patients with the FasL −844CC genotype were more prone to tumor relapse than those with the FasL −844TT+TC genotype (62.1% vs. 37.9%, P = 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that patients with the FasL −844CC genotype had poorer survival in terms of overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) than those with the FasL −844TT+TC genotype (24.1 vs. 42.8 months for OS, HR = 1.455, P = 0.004; 15.4 vs. 31.4 months for RFS, HR = 1.710, P < 0.001).

Conclusions: FasL −844T/C polymorphism may predict survival and relapse in NSCLC. We suggest that FasL may be a molecular target for immunotherapeutic interventions to improve the clinical outcome of patients with NSCLC. This finding should be validated by another investigative group. Clin Cancer Res; 17(18); 5991–9. ©2011 AACR.
Dose Response Between Physical Activity and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Sattelmair Jacob , Pertman Jeremy , Ding Eric L. , Kohl Harold W. , Haskell William , Lee I-Min
Published: August 2011

Background

No reviews have quantified the specific amounts of physical activity required for lower risks of coronary heart disease when assessing the dose-response relation. Instead, previous reviews have used qualitative estimates such as low, moderate, and high physical activity.

Methods and Results

We performed an aggregate data meta-analysis of epidemiological studies investigating physical activity and primary prevention of CHD. We included prospective cohort studies published in English since 1995. After reviewing 3194 abstracts, we included 33 studies. We used random-effects generalized least squares spline models for trend estimation to derive pooled dose-response estimates. Among the 33 studies, 9 allowed quantitative estimates of leisure-time physical activity. Individuals who engaged in the equivalent of 150 min/wk of moderate-intensity leisure-time physical activity (minimum amount, 2008 US federal guidelines) had a 14% lower coronary heart disease risk (relative risk, 0.86; 95% confidence interval, 0.77 to 0.96) compared with those reporting no leisure-time physical activity. Those engaging in the equivalent of 300 min/wk of moderate-intensity leisure-time physical activity (2008 US federal guidelines for additional benefits) had a 20% (relative risk, 0.80; 95% confidence interval, 0.74 to 0.88) lower risk. At higher levels of physical activity, relative risks were modestly lower. People who were physically active at levels lower than the minimum recommended amount also had significantly lower risk of coronary heart disease. There was a significant interaction by sex (
P
=0.03); the association was stronger among women than men.

Conclusions

These findings provide quantitative data supporting US physical activity guidelines that stipulate that “some physical activity is better than none” and “additional benefits occur with more physical activity.”
Critical Role for Stromal Interaction Molecule 1 in Cardiac Hypertrophy
Authors: Hulot Jean-Sébastien , Fauconnier Jérémy , Ramanujam Deepak , Chaanine Antoine , Aubart Fleur , Sassi Yassine , Merkle Sabine , Cazorla Olivier , Ouillé Aude , Dupuis Morgan , Hadri Lahouaria , Jeong Dongtak , Mühlstedt Silke , Schmitt Joachim , Braun Attila , Bénard Ludovic , Saliba Youakim , Laggerbauer Bernhard , Nieswandt Bernhard , Lacampagne Alain , Hajjar Roger J. , Lompré Anne-Marie , Engelhardt Stefan
Published: August 2011

Background—

Cardiomyocytes use Ca
2+
not only in excitation-contraction coupling but also as a signaling molecule promoting, for example, cardiac hypertrophy. It is largely unclear how Ca
2+
triggers signaling in cardiomyocytes in the presence of the rapid and large Ca
2+
fluctuations that occur during excitation-contraction coupling. A potential route is store-operated Ca
2+
entry, a drug-inducible mechanism for Ca
2+
signaling that requires stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1). Store-operated Ca
2+
entry can also be induced in cardiomyocytes, which prompted us to study STIM1-dependent Ca
2+
entry with respect to cardiac hypertrophy in vitro and in vivo.

Methods and Results—

Consistent with earlier reports, we found drug-inducible store-operated Ca
2+
entry in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes, which was dependent on STIM1. Although this STIM1-dependent, drug-inducible store-operated Ca
2+
entry was only marginal in adult cardiomyocytes isolated from control hearts, it increased significantly in cardiomyocytes isolated from adult rats that had developed compensated cardiac hypertrophy after abdominal aortic banding. Moreover, we detected an inwardly rectifying current in hypertrophic cardiomyocytes that occurs under native conditions (ie, in the absence of drug-induced store depletion) and is dependent on STIM1. By manipulating its expression, we found STIM1 to be both sufficient and necessary for cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in vitro and in the adult heart in vivo.
Stim1
silencing by adeno-associated viruses of serotype 9–mediated gene transfer protected rats from pressure overload–induced cardiac hypertrophy.

Conclusion—

By controlling a previously unrecognized sarcolemmal current, STIM1 promotes cardiac hypertrophy.
Pilot Study of Extracorporeal Removal of Soluble Fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase 1 in Preeclampsia
Authors: Thadhani Ravi , Kisner Tuelay , Hagmann Henning , Bossung Verena , Noack Stefanie , Schaarschmidt Wiebke , Jank Alexander , Kribs Angela , Cornely Oliver A. , Kreyssig Claudia , Hemphill Linda , Rigby Alan C. , Khedkar Santosh , Lindner Tom H. , Mallmann Peter , Stepan Holger , Karumanchi S. Ananth , Benzing Thomas
Published: August 2011

Background—

Targeted therapies to stabilize the clinical manifestations and prolong pregnancy in preeclampsia do not exist. Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1), an alternatively spliced variant of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1, induces a preeclampsia-like phenotype in experimental models and circulates at elevated levels in human preeclampsia. Removing sFlt-1 may benefit women with very preterm (<32 weeks) preeclampsia.

Methods and Results—

We first show that negatively charged dextran sulfate cellulose columns adsorb sFlt-1 in vitro. In 5 women with very preterm preeclampsia and elevated circulating sFlt-1 levels, we next demonstrate that a single dextran sulfate cellulose apheresis treatment reduces circulating sFlt-1 levels in a dose-dependent fashion. Finally, we performed multiple apheresis treatments in 3 additional women with very preterm (gestational age at admission 28, 30, and 27+4 weeks) preeclampsia and elevated circulating sFlt-1 levels. Dextran sulfate apheresis lowered circulating sFlt-1, reduced proteinuria, and stabilized blood pressure without apparent adverse events to mother and fetus. Pregnancy lasted for 15 and 19 days in women treated twice and 23 days in a woman treated 4 times. In each, there was evidence of fetal growth.

Conclusions—

This pilot study supports the hypothesis that extracorporeal apheresis can lower circulating sFlt-1 in very preterm preeclampsia. Further studies are warranted to determine whether this intervention safely and effectively prolongs pregnancy and improves maternal and fetal outcomes in this setting.
Resonant and Near-Resonant Internal Wave Interactions
Authors: Lvov Yuri V. , Polzin Kurt L. , Yokoyama Naoto
Published: August 2011

The spectral energy density of the internal waves in the open ocean is considered. The Garrett and Munk spectrum and the resonant kinetic equation are used as the main tools of the study. Evaluations of a resonant kinetic equation that suggest the slow time evolution of the Garrett and Munk spectrum is not in fact slow are reported. Instead, nonlinear transfers lead to evolution time scales that are smaller than one wave period at high vertical wavenumber. Such values of the transfer rates are inconsistent with the viewpoint expressed in papers by C. H. McComas and P. Müller, and by P. Müller et al., which regards the Garrett and Munk spectrum as an approximate stationary state of the resonant kinetic equation. It also puts the self-consistency of a resonant kinetic equation at a serious risk. The possible reasons for and resolutions of this paradox are explored. Inclusion of near-resonant interactions decreases the rate at which the spectrum evolves. Consequently, this inclusion shows a tendency of improving of self-consistency of the kinetic equation approach.
Validation of Backscatter Measurements from the Advanced Scatterometer on MetOp-A
Authors: Anderson C. , Figa J. , Bonekamp H. , Wilson J. J. W. , Verspeek J. , Stoffelen A. , Portabella M.
Published: August 2011

The Advanced Scatterometer (ASCAT) on the Meteorological Operational (MetOp) series of satellites is designed to provide data for the retrieval of ocean wind fields. Three transponders were used to give an absolute calibration and the worst-case calibration error is estimated to be 0.15–0.25 dB.

In this paper the calibrated data are validated by comparing the backscatter from a range of naturally distributed targets against models developed from European Remote Sensing Satellite (ERS) scatterometer data.

For the Amazon rainforest it is found that the isotropic backscatter decreases from −6.2 to −6.8 dB over the incidence angle range. The ERS value is around −6.5 dB. All ASCAT beams are within 0.1 dB of each other. Rainforest backscatter over a 3-yr period is found to be very stable with annual changes of approximately 0.02 dB.

ASCAT ocean backscatter is compared against values from the C-band geophysical model function (CMOD-5) using ECMWF wind fields. A difference of approximately 0.2 dB below 55° incidence is found. Differences of over 1 dB above 55° are likely due to inaccuracies in CMOD-5, which has not been fully validated at large incidence angles. All beams are within 0.1 dB of each other.

Backscatter from regions of stable Antarctic sea ice is found to be consistent with model backscatter except at large incidence angles where the model has not been validated. The noise in the ice backscatter indicates that the normalized standard deviation of the backscatter values Kp is around 4.5%, which is consistent with the expected value.

These results agree well with the expected calibration accuracy and give confidence that the calibration has been successful and that ASCAT products are of high quality.
Effects of Sea Level Data Assimilation by Ensemble Optimal Interpolation and 3D Variational Data Assimilation on the Simulation of Variability in a Tropical Pacific Model
Authors: Fu Weiwei , Zhu Jiang
Published: August 2011

Sea level anomalies (SLA) from the Ocean Topography Experiment (TOPEX)/Poseidon are assimilated with three-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVAR) and ensemble optimal interpolation (EnOI) for the period of 1997–2001. When sea level data are assimilated, one major concern is how to project the surface information downward. In 3DVAR, downward projection is usually achieved by minimizing a cost function that computes the relations among temperature, salinity, and sea level. In EnOI, the surface information is propagated to other variables through a stationary ensemble. Their effects on the simulated variability are evaluated in a tropical Pacific Ocean model. When compared with different datasets, it is found that effects of 3DVAR and EnOI are different in several aspects. For sea level, the standard deviation is improved by both methods, but EnOI is more effective in the central/eastern Pacific. The SLA evolution is better reproduced with EnOI than with 3DVAR. For temperature, the model–reanalysis correlations are increased by 0.1–0.2 in the top 200 m with both methods, but EnOI is more effective, especially along the thermocline depth. When compared with the Tropical Atmosphere–Ocean array (TAO) profiles, evolution of the temperature reveals that 3DVAR tends to cause more errors during ENSO events. The correlations with TAO profile are increased by 0.1–0.3 with EnOI and are generally decreased by 0.1–0.3 with 3DVAR. For salinity, both methods have weak impact on the model–reanalysis correlations above the thermocline. Relative to 3DVAR, EnOI can increase the correlation by 0.2 below the thermocline. When compared with the TAO profiles, the differences are reduced to some extent with both methods, but 3DVAR is very negative on the simulated variability.
An Explicit Time-Difference Scheme with an Adams–Bashforth Predictor and a Trapezoidal Corrector
Authors: Kar Sajal K.
Published: August 2011

A new predictor-corrector time-difference scheme that employs a second-order Adams–Bashforth scheme for the predictor and a trapezoidal scheme for the corrector is introduced. The von Neumann stability properties of the proposed Adams–Bashforth trapezoidal scheme are determined for the oscillation and friction equations. Effectiveness of the scheme is demonstrated through a number of time integrations using finite-difference numerical models of varying complexities in one and two spatial dimensions. The proposed scheme has useful implications for the fully implicit schemes currently employed in some semi-Lagrangian models of the atmosphere.
Melting and nonisothermal crystallization behavior of polypropylene/hemp fiber composites
Authors: Pengfei Niu , Xiaojun Wang , Baoying Liu , Shengru Long , Jie Yang
Published: August 2011

Melting and nonisothermal crystallization behaviors of polypropylene (PP) and PP/hemp fibers (HFs) composites was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) technique. The results show that the incorporation of HFs increases both the melting temperature ( Tm) and crystallization temperature ( Tc) of PP. Moreover, in comparison with PP/HF(70/30) composite, the addition of maleic anhydride-grafted PP (PP-MAH) results in a slight decrease in Tm but a significant increase in Tc of PP. The higher Tc of PP in the composites implies that HFs could act as nucleating agents for the crystallization of PP. Nonisothermal crystallization kinetics analysis was performed using Avrami and Mo models. The values of half-time ( t1/2) and rate constant indicate that the crystallization rate increases with the increasing of cooling rate for all the specimens. However, the crystallization rate of PP/HF(70/30) composite is found to be lower than that of PP at a certain cooling rate. Additionally, the composite containing PP-MAH has the lowest crystallization rate. Lower overall crystallization rate of PP/HF composites compared to PP is probably due to sufficiently high density of nuclei, which hinders the transport of PP molecular chains to crystal surface during nonisothermal crystallization. The crystallization activation energies (Δ E) determined by Kissinger method are 207.4 KJ/m2, 218.5 KJ/m2, and 220.4 kJ/m2 for PP, PP/HF(70/30), and PP/HF/PP-MAH(70/30/5), respectively.
Exclusion of Class III Malocclusion Candidate Loci in Brazilian Families
Authors: Cruz R.M. , Hartsfield J.K. , Falcão-Alencar G. , Koller D.L. , Pereira R.W. , Mah J. , Ferrari I. , Oliveira S.F.
Published: August 2011

The role played by genetic components in the etiology of the Class III phenotype, a class of dental malocclusion, is not yet understood. Regions that may be related to the development of Class III malocclusion have been suggested previously. The aim of this study was to search for genetic linkage with 6 microsatellite markers (D1S234, D4S3038, D6S1689, D7S503, D10S1483, and D19S566), near previously proposed candidate regions for Class III. We performed a two-point parametric linkage analysis for 42 affected individuals from 10 Brazilian families with a positive Class III malocclusion segregation. Analysis of our data indicated that there was no evidence for linkage of any of the 6 microsatellite markers to a Class III locus at θ = zero, with data supporting exclusion for 5 of the 6 markers evaluated. The present work reinforces that Class III is likely to demonstrate locus heterogeneity, and there is a dependency of the genetic background of the population in linkage studies.
Ultimate Masticatory Force as a Criterion in Implant Selection
Authors: Demenko V. , Linetskiy I. , Nesvit K. , Shevchenko A.
Published: August 2011

Osseointegrated implants often fail because of excessive masticatory forces that cause extremely large stresses in bone tissue. We hypothesized that a proper dental implant could be selected by comparing the ultimate masticatory forces of a wide range of commercially available implants. We determined ultimate oblique masticatory forces for different cylindrical implants, taking into consideration the biomechanical correlation between implant dimensions and stresses in supporting bone. For this purpose, we used the finite element (FE) method and studied von Mises stresses in implant-bone interface areas to evaluate the influence of implant dimensions on stress concentration and on the value of an implant’s ultimate masticatory load. Geometric models of a mandibular segment were generated from computed tomography (CT) images and were analyzed with osseointegrated cylindrical implants. Masticatory forces were applied in their natural direction. All materials were assumed to be linearly elastic and isotropic. Critical point in the peri-implant area of bone was determined. The ultimate value of the masticatory load, which generates ultimate stresses at the critical point, was calculated for each implant. These findings provide correct selection of implant dimensions in clinical cases, because corresponding ultimate values of masticatory force were used as a criterion for assessment of their load-carrying capacity and applicability.
Modelling the Sovereign Debt Crisis in Europe
Authors: Holland Dawn , Kirby Simon , Orazgani Ali
Published: August 2011

This note examines the impact of rising bond yields in certain Euro Area countries on debt sustainability. It concludes that without the financial assistance of the bailout packages, government debt in Greece would clearly have been unsustainable, while Ireland and Portugal would have been extremely vulnerable. We also examine the case of vulnerable countries which have not received bailouts — Italy, Spain and Belgium. We conclude that while they can absorb some temporary rise, as has been seen in recent weeks, a significant further sustained rise — more than 100–200 basis points — would call their solvency into question in the absence of financial assistance.
New insight into doctrine via simulation interoperation of heterogeneous levels of models in battle experimentation
Authors: Kim JeongHoon , Moon Il-Chul , Kim Tag Gon
Published: August 2011

As the complexity of military operations increases, defense modeling and simulation (DM&S) has contributed in analytically improving doctrines at various levels. To date, defense modelers concentrate on the best representation model of their targeted system at their targeted level with their targeted doctrine. However, insights into the doctrine from the battle experiment using such models are limited by the represented world of the model, and the modelers are missing potential insights into the doctrine that they might have gained if they had included more features in the models. Hence, this paper illustrates a battle experiment framework via the simulation interoperation of the heterogeneous levels of models. Our application is developing a mission-level doctrine for naval air defense scenarios, but a mission-level model alone does not represent the whole picture of the scenarios, and the model only represents the command and control (C2) procedures in detail, not the mechanical- and the engagement level features. On the other hand, an engagement-level model depicts some of the missing parts of the scenarios in the mission-level model. Our finding is that we can gain new insights, that is, an optimal decision-making timing of C2, into the mission-level doctrine from performing battle experiments by interoperating two such models at the mission and the engagement levels. We expect that this work will provide a new methodology for battle experiments by extending the limitation of single-model representation of the real world.
Investors’ Perceptions of Auditors’ Economic Dependence on the Client
Authors: Hollingsworth Carl , Li Chan
Published: August 2011

The authors revisit the client importance and auditor independence debate, and investigate whether investors’ perceptions of the auditor’s economic dependence has changed since the passage of the Sarbanes–Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX). Client importance is measured as the proportion of client nonaudit service fees, audit fees, or total fees to the total audit office revenue. Consistent with their hypothesis, they find a significant decrease in the association between both nonaudit services (NAS) and total fees, and the cost of equity from the pre- to the post-SOX period, indicating that investors’ concerns over auditor independence have changed in the post-SOX period. In addition, the authors find some evidence of a positive and significant association between both audit fees (2003) and total fees (2004), and cost of equity in the post-SOX period. Overall, these results indicate that the independence requirements in SOX and/or the heightened litigation environment post-SOX have, to some extent, mitigated but not completely eliminated investors’ concerns over the threat of economic fee dependence.
Accounting Properties of Chinese Family Firms
Authors: Ding Shujun , Qu Baozhi , Zhuang Zili
Published: August 2011

We posit that family firms in China exhibit accounting properties consistent with the prevalence of Type II agency problems. In contrast to the owners of non-family firms, the owners of family firms have more incentives to seek private benefits of control at the expense of minority shareholders and provide lower-quality earnings for self-interested purposes. The empirical evidence presented in this study suggests that the accounting earnings of listed Chinese family firms are less informative, and family firms employ less conservative accounting practices than their non-family counterparts. We also find that Chinese family firms have higher discretionary accruals compared to non-family firms, which is consistent with the view that family firms engage in more opportunistic reporting behavior. Overall, our study suggests that family ownership in China is associated with lower earnings quality, which is in sharp contrast to the findings of prior studies that examine such ownership in the U.S.