bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of Advanced Pancreatic Carcinoma with 90Y-Clivatuzumab Tetraxetan: A Phase I Single-Dose Escalation Trial
Authors: Gulec Seza A. , Cohen Steven J. , Pennington Kenneth L. , Zuckier Lionel S. , Hauke Ralph J. , Horne Heather , Wegener William A. , Teoh Nick , Gold David V. , Sharkey Robert M. , Goldenberg David M.
Published: April 2011

Purpose: Humanized antibody hPAM4 specifically binds a mucin glycoprotein expressed in pancreatic adenocarcinomas. This phase I study evaluated a single dose of 90Y-clivatuzumab tetraxetan (90Y-labeled hPAM4) in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.

Experimental Design: Twenty-one patients (4 stage III; 17 stage IV) received 111In-hPAM4 for imaging and serum sampling before 90Y-hPAM4. Study procedures evaluated adverse events, safety laboratories, computed tomography (CT) scans, biomarkers, pharmacokinetics, radiation dosimetry, and immunogenicity (HAHA).

Results: 111In-hPAM4 showed normal biodistribution with radiation dose estimates to red marrow and solid organs acceptable for radioimmunotherapy and with tumor targeting in 12 patients. One patient withdrew before 90Y-hPAM4; otherwise, 20 patients received 90Y doses of 15 (n = 7), 20 (n = 9), and 25 mCi/m2 (n = 4). Treatment was well tolerated; the only significant drug-related toxicities were (NCI CTC v.3) grade 3 to 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia increasing with 90Y dose. There were no bleeding events or serious infections, and most cytopenias recovered to grade 1 within 12 weeks. Three patients at 25 mCi/m2 encountered dose-limiting toxicity with grade 4 cytopenias more than 7 days, establishing 20 mCi/m2 as the maximal tolerated 90Y dose. Two patients developed HAHA of uncertain clinical significance. Most patients progressed rapidly and with CA19-9 levels increasing within 1 month of therapy, but 7 remained progression-free by CT for 1.5 to 5.6 months, including 3 achieving transient partial responses (32%–52% tumor diameter shrinkage).

Conclusion: 90Y-Clivatuzumab tetraxetan was well tolerated with manageable hematologic toxicity at the maximal tolerated 90Y dose, and is a potential new therapeutic for advanced pancreatic cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 17(12); 4091–100. ©2011 AACR.
Treatment of Akata EBV-Positive Cells with Doxorubicin Causes More EBV Reactivation than Treatment with Etoposide
Authors: Lima Raquel T. , Seca Hugo , Brás Susana , Nascimento Maria S.J. , Vasconcelos M. Helena
Published: April 2011

Background/Aims: EBV has been associated with Burkitt lymphoma (BL). It establishes a latent infection but its reactivation has been observed in patients receiving long-term chemotherapy. The effect of doxorubicin on virus reactivation has been described previously, but the effect of etoposide or cytarabine on EBV reactivation has not been reported in the literature. The aim of this work was to carry out such a study. Methods: Akata EBV-positive cell lines were treated with etoposide, doxorubicin or cytarabine. Viable cells were analyzed by trypan blue, programmed cell death by TUNEL assay, mRNA levels by RT-PCR and cellular or viral proteins by Western blot. Viruses were visualized by electron microscopy. Results: All of the studied drugs caused cell death by apoptosis. Comparing the effect of etoposide and doxorubicin (at their IC50) in the EBV-positive cells, etoposide caused less EBV reactivation than doxorubicin. Cytarabine apparently did not reactivate EBV. Conclusion: When treating Akata EBV-positive cells with the respective IC50 of the following drugs, etoposide induced less EBV reactivation than doxorubicin, and cytarabine apparently did not induce EBV reactivation.
From Mesohepatectomy to Mini-Mesohepatectomy: Evolving the Concept of Resectability of Hepatic Tumors at the Hepatocaval Confluence
Authors: Donadon Matteo , Torzilli Guido
Published: April 2011

In the case of tumors in contact with or invading the middle hepatic vein (MHV) at the hepatocaval confluence, extended right hepatectomy or mesohepatectomy is usually recommended. Major or extended hepatectomy is associated with significant rates of morbidity and mortality, and a more conservative approach would be desirable. Thus, we developed a new conservative operation, the so-called mini-mesohepatectomy that, in some specific circumstances, allowed the en-bloc resection of segment 8, segment 4-sup and the MHV at the hepatocaval confluence and at the same time preservation of the remaining parenchyma of the right anterior section and left median section drained by the MHV. The present work describes the rationale, indications, as well as the surgical technique of this new operation which we believe should be part of the armamentarium of the modern hepatic surgeon, and will probably limit the need for a formal mesohepatectomy.
Extent of Liver Resection for Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma (Klatskin Tumor): How Much Is Enough?
Authors: van Gulik Thomas M. , Ruys Anthony T. , Busch Oliver R.C. , Rauws Erik A.J. , Gouma Dirk J.
Published: April 2011

Background: Hilar resection in combination with extended liver resections has resulted in a higher rate of R0 resections and increased survival in patients with hilar cholangiocarcinoma (HCCA). This aggressive surgical approach is, however, associated with high rates of operative morbidity and mortality, largely due to postresectional liver failure. We previously reported a series after resection of HCCA in which R0 resection rate was 59% with a mortality rate of 10%. In this study, we assessed mortality of extended liver resections after optimizing liver functional reserve and application of parenchyma-sparing techniques. Methods: From 2008 until June 2010, 41 consecutive patients underwent resection on the suspicion of HCCA. Preoperative workup included staging laparoscopy, preoperative biliary drainage, assessment of volume/function of future remnant liver and radiation therapy to prevent seeding metastases. Modified right and left extended hemihepatectomies were performed preserving parts of segments 4 and 8, respectively, while pursuing complete excision of the tumor. Outcomes of resection were evaluated. Results: The majority of resections (78%) were performed for Bismuth type III–IV tumors. Preoperative biliary drainage was undertaken in 37 (90%) patients. Hilar resection in combination with liver resection was performed in 35 (85%) patients. Of these resections, 61% were modified extended resections including central liver resections. The R0 resection rate was 92%. Postoperative morbidity and mortality rates were 54 and 7%, respectively. Conclusion: Strategies to optimize liver function and to reduce removal of functional liver parenchyma were associated with a decrease in mortality (7%) while undertaking extended resection for HCCA with an R0 resection rate of 92%.
Relationship between N-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Plasma Levels and Renal Function Evaluated with Different Formulae in Older Adult Subjects Admitted because of Dyspnea
Authors: Fabbian Fabio , De Giorgi Alfredo , Portaluppi Francesco , Zuliani Giovanni
Published: April 2011

Background: N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) plasma levels are associated with congestive heart failure severity, and are an important diagnostic tool for assessing patients with acute dyspnea. Reduced renal function increases NT-proBNP concentrations, and therefore it might be a confounding factor in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Objective: The aim of the present study was to relate NT-proBNP plasma levels to different stages of renal function assessed with different methods in older adult subjects admitted because of dyspnea. Methods: NT-proBNP plasma levels (Roche Diagnostic, Mannheim, Germany) were measured in 134 older adult patients (age: 80 ± 6 years) admitted to hospital because of dyspnea. Anthropometrics, anamnesis, and biochemical data were collected. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was evaluated with different equations, the 4 variables MDRD equations (GFRMDRD186, GFRMDRD175), Mayo Clinic Quadratic formula (GFRMAYO), and the new CKD-EPI formula (GFRCKD-EPI). Patients were classified into the five K/DOQI stages of CKD and median NT-proBNP values were calculated evaluating their relationship with GFR. Results: Median NT-proBNP values were better stratified into the five K/DOQI stages by GFRMAYO (stage 1 (n = 10) 1,640 pg/ml vs. stage 2 (n = 61) 2,371 pg/ml vs. stage 3 (n = 42) 3,815 pg/ml vs. stage 4 (n = 18) 6,320 pg/ml vs. stage 5 (n = 3) 7,256 pg/ml, p = 0.017). However, similar results were obtained with the other formulae. NT-proBNP was negatively correlated with GFR as evaluated with all the different formulae (r –0.25 to –0.29; all p < 0.01). Multiple regression analysis confirmed the independent association between LnNT-proBNP and GFR. Conclusion: NT-proBNP plasma levels progressively increase with worsening of renal function, and appear to be related to the five K/DOQI stages of CKD. For this purpose, GFR assessed with the GFRMAYO formula appears to better stratify NT-proBNP in older adult subjects. Renal function should be considered when interpreting NT-proBNP levels in older adult patients admitted for dyspnoea.
Pancreatoduodenectomy with Subtotal Stomach-Preserving and Uncut Roux Reconstruction
Authors: Post M. , Wrzesinski M. , Klek R. , Lubikowski J. , Wojcicki M.
Published: April 2011

Background/Purpose: Pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) has become the therapy of choice for resectable tumors located in the head of the pancreas and periampullary region. In addition, a distal gastrectomy may still be required for tumors located in the dorsal part of the pancreatic head or when there is evidence of proximal duodenal invasion. This may lead to postoperative complications, including gastric dumping, marginal ulceration, and bile reflux gastritis. This study reports on the postoperative course following subtotal stomach-preserving PD with the uncut Roux reconstruction diverting biliary and pancreatic secretions from the gastric remnant. Methods: A technique combining subtotal stomach-preserving PD with the uncut Roux reconstruction was applied in 10 patients. The postoperative clinical follow-up data are reviewed, and clinical criteria of biliary gastric reflux and gastritis were evaluated. Results: The postoperative course was uneventful in 4 patients and complicated in 6 patients. Delayed gastric emptying occurred in 3 patients. No deaths occurred in the postoperative period. One patient suffered from occasional nausea with abdominal discomfort for which endoscopy and cholescintigraphy were performed. Endoscopy confirmed complete occlusion of the afferent jejunal limb and showed marginal ulceration within the gastrojejunal anastomosis. Cholescintigraphy showed signs of enterogastric reflux. The check-up endoscopy following typical antisecretory therapy revealed complete ulcer healing. Four patients died of tumor recurrence 6, 7, 8, and 12 months following surgery. Conclusion: This pilot study suggests that the uncut Roux reconstruction may represent a good alternative to gastrointestinal reconstruction following PD. Further studies including the determination of intragastric bile acid concentration and radionuclide isotope scanning in a larger number of patients are warranted.
A Combination of (ω–3) Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids, Polyphenols and L-Carnitine Reduces the Plasma Lipid Levels and Increases the Expression of Genes Involved in Fatty Acid Oxidation in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells and HepG2 Cells
Authors: Radler Ulla , Stangl Herbert , Lechner Sigrid , Lienbacher Gerhard , Krepp Rainer , Zeller Eduard , Brachinger Martin , Eller-Berndl Doris , Fischer Andreas , Anzur Christian , Schoerg Gerhard , Mascher Daniel , Laschan Claudia , Anderwald Christian , Lohninger Alfred
Published: April 2011

Background: Hyperlipidemia and obesity are associated with metabolic syndrome and increased risk in developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Nutritional supplements, e.g. L-carnitine and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), exert lipid-lowering effects. Hence, the hypothesis that dietetic intervention reduces plasma lipid levels and metabolic enzymes in overweight hyperlipidemic subjects was tested. Subjects and Methods: In a prospective placebo-controlled double-blind study in 22 moderately hyperlipidemic obese humans consuming low-fat yoghurt enriched with a combination of low-dose PUFAs, polyphenols and L-carnitine (PPC) twice a day for 12 weeks were compared to 20 matching participants ingesting low-fat yoghurt. The effects on plasma lipids and expression of enzymes involved in regulation of fatty acid oxidation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and HepG2 cells were evaluated. Results: PPC consumption led to significantly reduced plasma free fatty acid (–29%) and triglyceride (–24%) concentrations (each p < 0.05). PPC application increased significantly peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) mRNA abundances and those of PPARα target genes (carnitine palmitoyltransferases-1, CPT1A and CPT1B, carnitine acetyltransferase and organic cation transporter 2; each p < 0.05) in PBMCs. In controls, plasma lipid levels and PBMC gene expression did not change. These findings were substantiated by the results of cell culture experiments in HepG2 cells. Conclusion: Supplementation of PPC had marked lipid-lowering effects and PBMC gene expression profiles seemed to reflect nutrition-related metabolic changes.
Intake of Medication and Vitamin Status in the Elderly
Authors: Fabian Elisabeth , Bogner Michaela , Kickinger Andrea , Wagner Karl-Heinz , Elmadfa Ibrahim
Published: April 2011

Background/Aims: An inadequate vitamin status is associated with higher morbidity and frailty in the elderly and might be due to medication. This study aimed to evaluate the status of several vitamins in relation to regular intake of medication in this population. Methods: A total of102 non-institutionalized subjects aged 70–90 years were recruited. Plasma levels of vitamins A, D, E, K and C were determined by HPLC. The functional parameters of vitamins B1, B2 and B6, i.e. the activities of the erythrocyte enzymes transketolase, glutathione reductase and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase were analyzed photometrically; plasma folate and vitamin B12 were determined by RIA. Results: The status of vitamins A, E and C was generally satisfactory. Eighty-eight percent and 42% of participants were deficient in vitamins D and K, respectively, as were 29% in B6; up to 10% were deficient in vitamins B1, B2, B12 and folate. A considerable percentage of participants was, however, at risk for vitamin deficiencies (vitamins B1, B6, B12 and folate: 20–30%; vitamin B2: 60%). Regular intake of maximally 2 drugs per day was not adversely related to the status of several vitamins; intake of ≧3 drugs per day was significantly negatively associated with the status of vitamins D, K, B6 and folate. Conclusion: Daily intake of ≧3 drugs was found to be adversely associated with the status of some vitamins in the elderly. Hence, the medication schedule and nutritional status of these subjects should be monitored closely to ensure that the daily micronutrient requirement is fulfilled.
Joint Effects of Obesity and Body Height on the Risk of Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Borch Knut H. , Nyegaard Cecilie , Hansen John-Bjarne , Mathiesen Ellisiv B. , Njølstad Inger , Wilsgaard Tom , Brækkan Sigrid K.
Published: April 2011

Objective—

The goal of this study was to investigate the combined effect of obesity and body height on the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in a prospective population-based study.

Methods and Results—

Personal characteristics, including measures of obesity and body height, were collected in 26 714 men and women, aged 25 to 97 years, who participated in the Tromsø Study in 1994 to 1995. Incident VTE events were registered through September 1, 2007. There were 461 incident VTE events during a median of 12.5 years of follow-up. A tall stature was associated with increased risk of VTE in normal-weight (body mass index <25 kg/m
2
) and obese (body mass index ≥30 kg/m
2
) men, but not in women. The combination of obesity and tall stature synergistically increased the risk of VTE in both sexes. Tall (≥182 cm), obese men had a 5-fold (multivariable hazard ratio 5.16; 95% CI 2.39 to 11.14) increased risk of VTE compared with normal-weight men with short (≤172 cm) stature. Tall (≥168 cm), obese women had an almost 3-fold (multivariable hazard ratio 2.89; 95% CI 1.31 to 6.35) increased risk of VTE compared with normal-weight, short (≤159 cm) women.

Conclusion—

The combination of obesity and a tall stature was associated with a substantially increased risk of VTE, especially in men, suggesting synergistic effects of obesity and height on risk of VTE in both sexes.
Disruption of Hexokinase II–Mitochondrial Binding Blocks Ischemic Preconditioning and Causes Rapid Cardiac Necrosis
Authors: Smeele Kirsten M.A. , Southworth Richard , Wu Rongxue , Xie Chaoqin , Nederlof Rianne , Warley Alice , Nelson Jessica K. , van Horssen Pepijn , van den Wijngaard Jeroen P. , Heikkinen Sami , Laakso Markku , Koeman Anneke , Siebes Maria , Eerbeek Otto , Akar Fadi G. , Ardehali Hossein , Hollmann Markus W. , Zuurbier Coert J.
Published: April 2011

Rationale:

Isoforms I and II of the glycolytic enzyme hexokinase (HKI and HKII) are known to associate with mitochondria. It is unknown whether mitochondria-bound hexokinase is mandatory for ischemic preconditioning and normal functioning of the intact, beating heart.

Objective:

We hypothesized that reducing mitochondrial hexokinase would abrogate ischemic preconditioning and disrupt myocardial function.

Methods and Results:

Ex vivo perfused HKII
+/−
hearts exhibited increased cell death after ischemia and reperfusion injury compared with wild-type hearts; however, ischemic preconditioning was unaffected. To investigate acute reductions in mitochondrial HKII levels, wild-type hearts were treated with a TAT control peptide or a TAT-HK peptide that contained the binding motif of HKII to mitochondria, thereby disrupting the mitochondrial HKII association. Mitochondrial hexokinase was determined by HKI and HKII immunogold labeling and electron microscopy analysis. Low-dose (200 nmol/L) TAT-HK treatment significantly decreased mitochondrial HKII levels without affecting baseline cardiac function but dramatically increased ischemia-reperfusion injury and prevented the protective effects of ischemic preconditioning. Treatment for 15 minutes with high-dose (10 μmol/L) TAT-HK resulted in acute mitochondrial depolarization, mitochondrial swelling, profound contractile impairment, and severe cardiac disintegration. The detrimental effects of TAT-HK treatment were mimicked by mitochondrial membrane depolarization after mild mitochondrial uncoupling that did not cause direct mitochondrial permeability transition opening.

Conclusions:

Acute low-dose dissociation of HKII from mitochondria in heart prevented ischemic preconditioning, whereas high-dose HKII dissociation caused cessation of cardiac contraction and tissue disruption, likely through an acute mitochondrial membrane depolarization mechanism. The results suggest that the association of HKII with mitochondria is essential for the protective effects of ischemic preconditioning and normal cardiac function through maintenance of mitochondrial potential.
Frequency of Increased Blood Pressure Levels During Systemic Thrombolysis and Risk of Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Kellert Lars , Rocco Andrea , Sykora Marek , Hacke Werner , Ringleb Peter A.
Published: April 2011

Background and Purpose—

Significantly increased blood pressure (BP) is common in patients receiving intravenous thrombolysis (IVT). We aimed to investigate frequency of pre- and post-treatment elevated BP and its relation to intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and symptomatic ICH (sICH), respectively.

Methods—

Data for patients treated with intravenous thrombolysis in the years 2007 to 2009 were retrospectively extracted from our prospectively conducted local stroke database. All documented BP levels from admission to follow-up imaging scan were analyzed. BP protocol violations were defined as systolic BP >185mm Hg and/or diastolic BP >110 mm Hg. sICH was defined as ICH plus worsening of the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale ≥4 points.

Results—

BP protocol violation before IVT emerged in 12.6% and during the course of IVT in 40.1% of 427 patients. sICH occurred in 10 (2.3%) and ICH in general occurred in 51 (11.9%) of 427 patients. Proportions of BP protocol violations were similar in patients without ICH, with any ICH, and with sICH (3.1% versus 2.8% versus 3.2%). Systolic BP levels and mean arterial pressure did not differ between patients without ICH, patients with any ICH, and patients with sICH. In the multivariate analysis, only early CT findings independently predicted ICH (OR, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.25–4.61;
P
=0.009).

Conclusions—

BP protocol violations are common before and during the course of IVT, but neither the frequency of BP protocol violations nor the BP levels predicted ICH or sICH in univariate or multivariate analyses.
COSP: Satellite simulation software for model assessment
Authors: Bodas-Salcedo A. , Webb M. J. , Bony S. , Chepfer H. , Dufresne J.-L. , Klein S. A. , Zhang Y. , Marchand R. , Haynes J. M. , Pincus R. , John V. O.
Published: April 2011

Errors in the simulation of clouds in general circulation models (GCMs) remain a long-standing issue in climate projections, as discussed in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Report. This highlights the need for developing new analysis techniques to improve our knowledge of the physical processes at the root of these errors. The Cloud Feedback Model Intercomparison Project (CFMIP) pursues this objective, and under that framework the CFMIP Observation Simulator Package (COSP) has been developed. COSP is a flexible software tool that enables the simulation of several satellite-borne active and passive sensor observations from model variables. The flexibility of COSP and a common interface for all sensors facilitates its use in any type of numerical model, from high-resolution cloud-resolving models to the coarser-resolution GCMs assessed by the IPCC, and the scales in between used in weather forecast and regional models. The diversity of model parameterization techniques makes the comparison between model and observations difficult, as some parameterized variables (e.g., cloud fraction) do not have the same meaning in all models. The approach followed in COSP permits models to be evaluated against observations and compared against each other in a more consistent manner. This permits a more detailed diagnosis of the physical processes that govern the behavior of clouds and precipitation in numerical models. The World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) Working Group on Coupled Modelling has recommended the use of COSP in a subset of climate experiments that will be assessed by the next IPCC report. In this article we describe COSP, present some results from its application to numerical models, and discuss future work that will expand its capabilities.
A Comparison among Four Different Retrieval Methods for Ice-Cloud Properties Using Data from CloudSat, CALIPSO, and MODIS
Authors: Stein Thorwald H. M. , Delanoë Julien , Hogan Robin J.
Published: April 2011

The A-Train constellation of satellites provides a new capability to measure vertical cloud profiles that leads to more detailed information on ice-cloud microphysical properties than has been possible up to now. A variational radar–lidar ice-cloud retrieval algorithm (VarCloud) takes advantage of the complementary nature of the CloudSat radar and Cloud–Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) lidar to provide a seamless retrieval of ice water content, effective radius, and extinction coefficient from the thinnest cirrus (seen only by the lidar) to the thickest ice cloud (penetrated only by the radar). In this paper, several versions of the VarCloud retrieval are compared with the CloudSat standard ice-only retrieval of ice water content, two empirical formulas that derive ice water content from radar reflectivity and temperature, and retrievals of vertically integrated properties from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) radiometer. The retrieved variables typically agree to within a factor of 2, on average, and most of the differences can be explained by the different microphysical assumptions. For example, the ice water content comparison illustrates the sensitivity of the retrievals to assumed ice particle shape. If ice particles are modeled as oblate spheroids rather than spheres for radar scattering then the retrieved ice water content is reduced by on average 50% in clouds with a reflectivity factor larger than 0 dBZ. VarCloud retrieves optical depths that are on average a factor-of-2 lower than those from MODIS, which can be explained by the different assumptions on particle mass and area; if VarCloud mimics the MODIS assumptions then better agreement is found in effective radius and optical depth is overestimated. MODIS predicts the mean vertically integrated ice water content to be around a factor-of-3 lower than that from VarCloud for the same retrievals, however, because the MODIS algorithm assumes that its retrieved effective radius (which is mostly representative of cloud top) is constant throughout the depth of the cloud. These comparisons highlight the need to refine microphysical assumptions in all retrieval algorithms and also for future studies to compare not only the mean values but also the full probability density function.
Large-Eddy Simulation of the Stable Boundary Layer with Explicit Filtering and Reconstruction Turbulence Modeling
Authors: Zhou Bowen , Chow Fotini Katopodes
Published: April 2011

Large-eddy simulation (LES) of the stably stratified atmospheric boundary layer is performed using an explicit filtering and reconstruction approach with a finite difference method. Turbulent stresses are split into the resolvable subfilter-scale and subgrid-scale stresses. The former are recovered from a reconstruction approach, and the latter are represented by a dynamic eddy-viscosity model. The resulting dynamic reconstruction model (DRM) can sustain resolved turbulence with less stringent resolution requirements than conventional closure models, even under strong atmospheric stability. This is achieved by proper representation of subfilter-scale (SFS) backscatter of turbulent kinetic energy (TKE). The flow structure and turbulence statistics for the moderately stable boundary layer (SBL) are analyzed with high-resolution simulations. The DRM simulations show good agreement with established empirical formulations such as flux and gradient-based surface similarity, even at relatively coarse resolution. Similar results can be obtained with traditional closure models at the cost of higher resolution. SBL turbulence under strong stability is also explored. Simulations show an intermittent presence of elevated TKE below the low-level jet. Overall, the explicit filtering and reconstruction approach is advantageous for simulations of the SBL. At coarse resolution, it can extend the working range of LES to stronger stability, while maintaining agreement to similarity theory; at fine resolution, good agreement with theoretical formulations provides confidence in the results and allows for detailed investigation of the flow structure under moderate to strong stability conditions.
How Different Calculations of the Refractive Index Affect Estimates of the Radiative Forcing Efficiency of Ammonium Sulfate Aerosols
Authors: Erlick Carynelisa , Abbatt Jonathan P. D. , Rudich Yinon
Published: April 2011

Calculations of the radiative properties of hydrated ammonium sulfate (AS) aerosols often employ the conventional volume mixing rule, in which the refractive indices of AS and water are linearly averaged, weighted by their respective volume fractions in solution, and the real part of the refractive index of pure AS is taken to be 1.52–1.55, based on measurements of dry crystalline AS. However, there are significant differences between the refractive indices of AS–water solutions calculated using the conventional volume mixing rule and empirically derived refractive indices. The authors use a simple model for calculating the direct solar radiative forcing efficiency (RFE; radiative forcing divided by optical depth) of an optically thin layer of aerosols to investigate the magnitude of these differences. The difference between the conventional volume mixing rule and empirically derived refractive indices amounts to a modest difference in the direct solar RFE of AS aerosols at the top of the atmosphere at 0.550-μm wavelength and at relative humidities of 37%–99.9%. Without black carbon, the difference in RFE is up to −0.42 W m−2 for relative humidities less than around 66% and up to 0.25 W m−2 for relative humidities greater than 66%, whereas with 2% black carbon by volume, the range of difference in RFE is up to −0.59 W m−2 for relative humidities less than 66% and up to 0.30 W m−2 for relative humidities greater than 66%. Although modest, this difference in RFE may become important when investigating regional aerosol forcing in areas with a high concentration of urban and industrial pollution.
Air–Sea Interaction over the Subtropical North Pacific during the ENSO Transition Phase
Authors: Wu Wei , Wen Zhiping , Wu Renguang , Wang Tongmei
Published: April 2011

In the present study, monthly mean objectively analyzed air–sea fluxes (OAFlux) and NCEP–Department of Energy (DOE) reanalysis datasets are employed to investigate air–sea interaction over the subtropical North Pacific during the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) transition phase. A coupled low-frequency mode is identified, for which surface net heat flux and atmospheric circulation changes are strongly coupled during the ENSO transition phase. This mode features anomalous cooling (warming) and low-level anomalous cyclonic (anticyclonic) circulation over the subtropical North Pacific. When this mode is prominent, the atmospheric circulation anomalies lead to SST cooling (warming) through surface heat flux anomalies associated with increases (decreases) in the sea–air temperature and humidity differences induced by anomalous cold (warm) advection. In turn, positive heat flux anomalies induce more surface heating, and the SST cooling (warming) causes less (more) deep convective heating. The anomalous surface heating and deep convective heating contribute significantly to anomalous circulation through the thermal adaptation mechanism (adaptation of atmospheric circulation to vertical differential heating). This positive feedback favors the maintenance of these anomalous winds over the subtropical North Pacific.
Rossby Waves and the Variability of the North Pacific Current during 2002–03
Authors: Donohue Shawn M. , Stacey Michael W.
Published: April 2011

A numerical model, the Parallel Ocean Program (POP), with 0.25° horizontal spatial resolution and 28 vertical levels is used to simulate the circulation of the North Pacific Ocean for the time period 1960–2006. Spectral nudging is used so that model drift of the mean state over the 46-yr time period of the simulation is prevented while allowing for the prognostic evolution of the circulation at time scales that are not nudged. The simulation successfully reproduces a southward shift in the North Pacific Current in 2002–03 as calculated from scalar observations. It is suggested that this calculated shift may not be solely due to meridional current drift but also a consequence of the shifting intensity of two eastward-moving current bands separated by 300–500 km, a distance consistent with the Rhines scale (the scale at which the 2D turbulence cascade tends to be arrested), which implies an influence from Rossby waves that are heavily affected by nonlinearities. The simulation suggests that the North Pacific Current may indeed have been influenced by a Rossby wave–like disturbance. This disturbance could have been forced to a significant extent by the local winds, but there is also evidence in the model for a coastally generated Rossby wave–like disturbance. This coastal disturbance was generated during the 1997/98 ENSO and traveled westward from the coast at about 1 cm s−1, taking 3–5 yr to travel into the region of the North Pacific Current. The noncoastal portion of the disturbance, which was generated by the local winds away from the coast, propagated westward at about 1 cm s−1 as well.
Estimating Continuous-Coverage Instantaneous Precipitation Rates Using Remotely Sensed and Ground-Based Measurements
Authors: Grim Joseph A. , Pinto James O.
Published: April 2011

This study demonstrates a method of temporally and spatially scaling precipitation rates at low probability of precipitation-rate exceedance levels (e.g., 0.1%) from coarser-resolution global datasets to near-instantaneous localized rain gauge precipitation rates. In particular, the 8-km-, 1-h-resolution Climate Prediction Center Morphing (CMORPH) dataset was scaled to 1-min localized rates using the Automated Surface Observing Station (ASOS) rain gauge data. Maps of these scaled precipitation rates show overall patterns and magnitudes that are nearly identical to the lower-spatial-resolution rain gauge maps yet retain the much higher resolution of the original remotely sensed global dataset, which is particularly important over regions of complex geography and sparse surface observing stations. To scale the CMORPH data, temporal and spatial conversion factor arrays were calculated by comparing precipitation rates at different temporal (ASOS 1-min and 1-h) and spatial (ASOS 1-h and CMORPH 1-h) resolutions. These temporal and spatial conversion factors were found to vary by probability level, season, and climatological region. Meteorological implications of these variations are discussed.
Cross-Cultural Differences in Spatial Abilities and Solution Strategies— An Investigation in Cambodia and Germany
Authors: Janssen Anne B. , Geiser Christian
Published: April 2011

Cultural differences in performance and solution strategies on the Mental Rotations Test (MRT; Peters et al., 1995; Vandenberg & Kuse, 1978) and the Cube Comparison Test (CCT; Amthauer, Brocke, Liepmann, & Beauducel, 2001) were studied in 656 Cambodian and German students. Germans outperformed Cambodians on both the MRT ( d = 1.57) and CCT ( d = 0.99). The large differences could be explained by Cambodian participants being more prone to analytic strategies, whereas most Germans preferred a holistic strategy. Sex differences on the MRT in favor of males were found in both Cambodia ( d = 0.37) and Germany ( d = 0.87). On the CCT, sex differences with males outperforming females were only found for the German sample ( d = 0.43). In both samples, more females preferred an analytic solution strategy, whereas more males tended to use a holistic strategy. We argue that the huge differences between nations can partly be attributed to differences in the mathematics curriculum.
Using Mental Representations of Space When Words Are Unavailable: Studies of Enumeration and Arithmetic in Indigenous Australia
Authors: Butterworth Brian , Reeve Robert , Reynolds Fiona
Published: April 2011

Here the authors describe the nature and use of spatial strategies in a standard nonverbal addition task in two groups of children who speak only languages in which counting words are not available, as compared with children who were raised speaking English. They tested speakers of Warlpiri and Anindilyakwa aged between 4 and 7 years at two remote sites in the Northern Territory of Australia. These children used spatial strategies extensively and were significantly more accurate when they did so. English-speaking children used spatial strategies very infrequently but relied on an enumeration strategy supported by counting words to do the addition task. The main spatial strategy exploited the known visual memory strengths of Aboriginals and involved matching the spatial patterns of the augend and addend sets. These findings suggest that counting words, far from being necessary for exact arithmetic, offer one strategy among others. They also suggest that spatial models for numbers do not need to be one-dimensional vectors, as in a mental number line (MNL), but can be at least two-dimensional.
Finger Counting Habits in Middle Eastern and Western Individuals: An Online Survey
Authors: Lindemann Oliver , Alipour Ahmad , Fischer Martin H.
Published: April 2011

The current study documents the presence of cultural differences in the development of finger counting strategies. About 900 Middle Eastern (i.e., Iranian) and Western (i.e., European and American) individuals reported in an online survey how they map numbers onto their fingers when counting from 1 to 10. The analysis of these bimanual counting patterns revealed clear cross-cultural differences in the hand and finger starting preferences: While most Western individuals started counting with the left hand and associated the number 1 with their thumb, most Middle Eastern respondents preferred to start counting with the right hand and preferred to map the number 1 onto their little finger. The transition between the two hands during counting showed equal proportions of symmetry-based and spatial continuity-based patterns in the two cultures. Implications of these findings for numerical cognition and for the origin of the well-known association between numbers and space are discussed.
A constructive approach toward a parametric pattern-making model
Authors: Yi Xiu  , Wan Zhen-Kai , Wen Cao
Published: April 2011

The made-to-measure technique is created to accommodate the requirement of mass customization. A parametric design in various made-to-measure techniques is considered as a significant solution, however, variant programming as a parametric design has its limitation in principle, scope and operation. This paper proposes a novel approach based on variable and geometric constraint to generate a parametric pattern-making model. In an interactive and graphical environment, at the same time that geometric entities are created, geometric constraints between entities are identified, constructed and added into a constraint graph which represents the sequence of construction and constraints, thus it also holds a set of rules and knowledge in pattern-making. To reduce the cost of time and space, the reversible graph of a constraint graph is introduced to represent a dimension-driven process. Parametric modeling of a pattern is illustrated with the rear panel of a women’s jacket in this paper. First of all, a constraint graph and reversible graph are expressed using an adjacent constraint list and an adjacent dimension-driven list respectively, then pattern-making process is stored in an adjacent constraint list, when a set of specific values of variables or the properties of an entity is altered, the properties of the relatively constrained entities are recalculated and updated by using an adjacent dimension-driven list and constraint solving algorithm. The experiments show that the approach has the advantage of the interactive construction of a pattern and convenient operation similar to conventional garment CAD, and the implementation of the dimension-driven process and entity-edited function of parametric pattern model.
Dialect and Register Hybridity: A Case from Schools
Authors: West Brown David
Published: April 2011

This case study explores the academic writing practices of some African American English-speaking high school students, focusing in particular on interactions of dialect and register. In some instances, students appear to draw from a range of dialect and register resources and to deploy them in hybridized forms in their compositions. One implication of this hybridity is that it suggests the need to include register analysis as part of linguistically informed approaches to writing instruction (i.e., approaches that apply variationist research and methods to educational settings). Additionally, this case study examines some of the reasons that motivate the production of hybridity, analyzing how the linguistic tasks in which students are asked to engage and students’ metalinguistic understandings play a role in the creation of hybridized texts. Finally, this study presents analytic methods that, while not new, are applied in a mixed way that attempts to systematically examine both dialect and register in texts.
Matrix-Associated Implantation of Predifferentiated Mesenchymal Stem Cells Versus Articular Chondrocytes
Authors: Marquass Bastian , Schulz Ronny , Hepp Pierre , Zscharnack Matthias , Aigner Thomas , Schmidt Stefanie , Stein Frank , Richter Robert , Osterhoff Georg , Aust Gabriele , Josten Christoph , Bader Augustinus
Published: April 2011

Background: The use of predifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) leads to better histological results compared with undifferentiated MSC in sheep. This raises the need for a longer term follow-up study and comparison with a clinically established method.

Hypothesis: We hypothesized that chondrogenic in vitro predifferentiation of autologous MSC embedded in a collagen I hydrogel leads to better structural repair of a chronic osteochondral defect in an ovine stifle joint after 1 year. We further hypothesized that resulting histological results would be comparable with those of chondrocyte-seeded matrix-associated autologous chondrocyte transplantation (MACT).

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: Predifferentiation period of ovine MSC within collagen gel in vitro was defined by assessment of several cellular and molecular biological parameters. For the animal study, 2 osteochondral lesions (7-mm diameter) were created at the medial femoral condyles of the hind legs in 9 sheep. Implantation of MSC gels was performed 6 weeks after defect creation. Thirty-six defects were divided into 4 treatment groups: (1) chondrogenically predifferentiated MSC gels (pre-MSC gels), (2) undifferentiated MSC gels (un-MSC gels), (3) MACT gels, and (4) untreated controls (UC). Histological, immunohistochemical, and radiological evaluations followed after 12 months.

Results: After 12 months in vivo, pre-MSC gels showed significantly better histological outcome compared with un-MSC gels and UC. Compared with MACT gels, the overall scores were higher for O’Driscoll and International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS). The repair tissue of the pre-MSC group showed immunohistochemical detection of interzonal collagen type II staining. Radiological evaluation supported superior bonding of pre-MSC gels to perilesional native cartilage. Compared with previous work by our group, no degradation of the repair tissue between 6 and 12 months in vivo, particularly in pre-MSC gels, was observed.

Conclusion: Repair of chronic osteochondral defects with collagen hydrogels composed of chondrogenically predifferentiated MSC shows no signs of degradation after 1 year in vivo. In addition, pre-MSC gels lead to partially superior histological results compared with articular chondrocytes.

Clinical Relevance: The results suggest an encouraging method for future treatment of focal osteochondral defects without donor site morbidity by harvesting articular chondrocytes.
Analysis of MECP2 Gene Copy Number in Boys With Autism
Authors: Xi Chun-Yan , Lu Yao , Tan Ying-Hua , Hua Tian-Yi , Zhao Yun-Jing , Liu Xiao-Mei , Gao Hong
Published: April 2011

Autism is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder with a strong genetic basis.The methyl-CpG binding protein 2 gene (MECP2) is a dosage-sensitive gene in brain development and has been implicated as a candidate gene for autism. Duplication of the MECP2 gene has been reported in a few boys with autistic features. To further investigate the association of MECP2 duplication with autism, the authors performed real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect copy number variations of the MECP2 gene in 82 autistic boys. No copy number variation was found in these patients, indicating that duplication of the MECP2 gene is not frequent in autistic patients. The authors consider that duplication of the MECP2 gene has no major effect on the susceptibility to autism. Replication of studies in a large-sized sample and a well-characterized subgroup of autism are warranted to further identify the association of MECP2 gene duplication with autism.
Reversible Brainstem Edema due to Hypertensive Encephalopathy in an 8-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Moosa Ahsan N. V. , Eagam Mamata , Moodley Manikum
Published: April 2011

The authors report an 8-year-old girl with refractory status epilepticus due to hypertensive encephalopathy, secondary to end-stage renal disease. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the acute phase showed striking hyperintensities in the brain stem and medial thalamus along with subtle cortical lesions. After successful control of hypertensive crisis and status epilepticus, the patient recovered to her baseline. Near total resolution of the lesions was noted on follow-up imaging performed 9 days later. Predominant brainstem involvement as a feature of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome due to hypertensive crisis is extremely rare in children and has not been well documented.
The Assessment of Intimate Partner Violence in Spanish Women
Authors: Plazaola-Castaño Juncal , Ruiz-Pérez Isabel , Escribà-Agüir Vicenta , Montero-Piñar Isabel , Vives-Cases Carmen
Published: April 2011

We aimed to analyze the internal consistency and construct validity of the Spanish version of the Index of Spouse Abuse (ISA) in a representative sample of 8,995 women attending general practice in Spain in 2006-2007. The factor structure analysis shows that the ISA measures four intimate partner violence (IPV) dimensions: emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, and controlling behavior. Cronbach alpha ranges from .82 (sexual factor) to .94 (emotional). Construct validity analysis shows that IPV is associated with poorer self-perceived health, higher psychological distress, and lower tangible social support. The ISA can help make more visible forms of gender violence in the intimate relationship that sometimes are not recognized as such, like sexual violence or controlling behavior. This can contribute to the development of specific interventions for women experiencing IPV, considering the specificities of the violent acts experienced.
A Poetic Representation: Women in Medicine Are “Able to”
Authors: Isaac Carol A.
Published: April 2011

The purpose of letters of recommendation is to accentuate the positive attributes of candidates. An archival study examined 291 medical students’ performance evaluations (MSPEs) for male and female medical students written by male and female associate deans of medicine for a highly competitive radiology residency in the Northeast United States. This poetic representation illustrates the author’s emotion to the audience after grappling with disturbing results from the data analysis (Richardson, 2003). Interpretations of the data through a poststructural feminist lens draw on the complexity of the language that remains a constitutive force illustrating reality. “Competent,” part of the Merriam-Webster’s definition of “able,” has a gendered masculine nuance. Even though women physicians represent almost 50% of medical school graduates, there remains questions of what they are “able to” do.
Making My Narrative Mine: Unconventional Articulations of a Female Soldier
Authors: Hicks Manda V.
Published: April 2011

I use fragments from my own military service to build a narrative of the self and weave this perspective together with the experiences of other female soldiers in prose poetry. This text addresses the complexity of the interview process and demonstrates that a full articulation of experience may include unconventional moments of sense making. These unconventional articulations generally lack a beginning, middle, and end, resist attempts at simple summary, and often elevate the narrative to an abstract level. I argue that articulations of experience are potentially contrary and intraoppositional and that they should be free of any impositions of order that are not the product of the teller.