bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intracardiac teratoma in a newborn
Authors: Farooki Z. Q. , Chang C. H. , Jackson W. L. , Clapp S. K. , Hakimi M. , Arciniegas E. , Pinsky W. W.
Published: July 2009

Primary tumors of the heart are infrequent at all ages. We present a newborn with hypoxia and a heart murmur, in whom an echocardiogram revealed a large tumor filling the right ventricle and the pulmonary annulus. To maintain pulmonary blood flow, the patency of the ductus arteriosus was achieved by infusion of prostaglandin E1. Successful surgical resection was accomplished. The pathological examination was characteristic of a benign teratoma. The patient remains asymptomatic and has shown no evidence of recurrence of the tumor during a follow‐up period of 34 months. This represents the eleventh case of intracardiac teratoma and only the fourth case to undergo successful surgical resection.
Vector u loop in patients with old myocardial infarction
Authors: Yang Q. , Kiyoshige K. , Fujimoto T. , Katayama M. , Fujino K. , Saito K. , Nakaya Y. , Mori H.
Published: July 2009

The U loop of the vectorcardiogram was examined qualitatively and quantitatively in 100 normal subjects and 67 patients with old myocardial infarction, using a direct‐writing vectorcardiograph with memory function. In the control group, the U loop was directed to the left, anteriorly and inferiorly, and it was inscribed counterclockwise in the horizontal plane. In patients with anterior myocardial infarction, the U loop tended to be displaced to the right, and in patients with inferior myocardial infarction to the right and superiorly. The shape of the U loop in patients was also different from that of normal subjects. The maximum U vector was significantly smaller in magnitude both in patients with anterior and inferior myocardial infarction than that of normal subjects (p>0.01). In patients with ventricular aneurysm, the magnitude of the maximum U vector was significantly smaller and its direction was displaced more to the right and posteriorly than those without aneurysm (p>0.01). In standard 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG), observation of the U wave in patients with old myocardial infarction was difficult, especially in the limb lead, because of the small size of the U wave. Therefore, vectorcardiographic observation may be more useful than electrocardiographic observation for the analysis of the U wave in patients with old myocardial infarction.
Influence of risk factors on long‐term survival following acute myocardial infarction: A follow‐up study in central japan
Authors: Enomoto N. , Yamauchi K. , Hayashi H. , Saito H. , Hamajima N. , Sasaki R. , Sotobata I. , Tanimura H.
Published: July 2009

The long‐term survival rate following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) was studied in 358 patients in central Japan who were monitored for 8 to 20 years after discharge from hospital for AMI. Fifteen‐year cardiac survival rates were 65% in males and 72% in females. In both sexes, the survival rate decreased with increasing age at the time of AMI. The survival rate was significantly lower in recurrent MI than in first MI patients. Those who had smoked cigarettes before AMI or had hyperlipidemia during hospitalization did not show any significant decrease in cardiac survival rate, which may be due to cessation of smoking or control of hyperlipidemia after AMI. The 15‐year survival rate was significantly lower in patients with a past history of angina pectoris or hypertension. Patients with a large infarct had a lower survival rate, as did those with a large cardiothoracic ratio on chest x‐ray, and those who received digitalis during hospitalization. On the other hand, patients who were administered anticoagulants during hospitalization had a higher survival rate. Multiple regression analysis gave similar results. In conclusion, factors that reduced long‐term survival rate after AMI were older age at time of the first attack, reduced cardiac function, and a history of angina pectoris or hypertension. Anticoagulant therapy appeared to improve the long‐term survival rate.
Prediction of mortality after myocardial infarction by simple clinical variables recorded during hospitalization
Authors: Plérard L. A. , Dubois C. , Albert A. , Smeets J.‐P. , Kulbertus H. E.
Published: July 2009

Simple clinical variables obtainable in any coronary care unit and in any patient were recorded in 769 consecutive patients who were admitted with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and who were discharged from the hospital and followed for up to 3 years. To identify the patients at highest and lowest risk of posthospital mortality, a prognostic index was established from a stepwise logistic discriminant analysis of variables obtained in a consecutive series of 418 patients discharged alive from one of two coronary care units admitting new patients on alternate days. This prognostic index was validated by applying it to a comparison group of 351 consecutive control patients discharged from the other coronary care unit. In the training group, 59 of the 418 patients (14%) died during the first year after hospital discharge and 34 (8%) died during the second or third year. The stepwise logistic discriminant analysis made it possible to distinguish between 1‐year survivors and nonsurvivors, but not between the patients who died during the second and third years and the 3‐year survivors. Four variables were selected for obtaining a 1‐year prognostic index: the maximum grade of left ventricular function during hospitalization (0 to 4), history of previous AMI (1 or 0), predischarge cardiothoracic ratio (0 to 0.99), and complete bundle branch block (1 or 0). Prognostic index = 7.0196‐0.6515 function ‐1.6623 previous AMI ‐0.0729 cardiothoracic ratio ‐1.0813 bundle branch block. This index was validated in the comparison group. Patients were allocated into three classes with increasing values of the index associated with decreasing risk of 1‐year mortality: patients at high risk (index ≤ 1; mortality 30%), patients at intermediate risk (1 < index ≤ 3; mortality 9%) and those at low risk (index > 3; mortality 3%). Easily obtainable variables may identify patients at risk of dying during the first year after hospital discharge, but not those at risk of dying during the second or third year.
Effect of isosorbide dinitrate on cardiac output in severe cardiac failure: Relation to initial hemodynamics, ventricular volume, and the preload reserve mechanism
Authors: Lewis B. S. , Hardoff R. , Halon D. A.
Published: July 2009

Isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) improves the clinical and hemodynamic state of patients with heart failure, but may cause dizziness and syncope. To characterize patients in whom cardiac output falls with high‐dose nitrate therapy and to examine further the pathophysiology of the fall in cardiac output in these patients, we studies the effect of sublingual ISDN on forward cardiac output in 14 patients with severe cardiac failure (New York Heart Association grades 3–4). We examined systolic and diastolic left ventricular (LV) function from pressure and volume analyses of LV function. After administration of 15 mg ISDN, cardiac output was either unaltered or increased in 7 patients (Group 1) (11±12%, mean±SD), and decreased in 7 (Group 2) (‐13±10%) (Group 1 vs. 2, p<0.002). Initial systemic arterial pressure, LV ejection fraction, wedge and LV transmural filling pressures were similar in both groups, but Group 2 patients had a lower systemic vascular resistance (p=0.07) and tended to have a larger initial LV end‐diastolic volume and increased end‐diastolic compliance; following ISDN the decrease in LV filling pressure and end‐diastolic volume was larger and the product of the changes greater (p<0.02). Thus ISDN decreases filling pressure and improves forward cardiac output in some patients with congestive heart failure, but large doses may decrease cardiac output in a subset of patients who have a lower systemic vascular resistance and a larger more compliant ventricle, maintaining forward blood flow predominantly by a preload reserve mechanism. As a simple clinical guide, cardiac output is likely to fall when the wedge pressure is reduced to < 10 mmHg.
Mitral leaflet motion: Age and implications for the diagnosis of mitral valve prolapse
Authors: Froom P. , Kriwisky M. , Ribak J. , Shochat I. , Tamir A. , Lewis B. S.
Published: July 2009

The extent of posterior mitral leaflet motion (PMLM) during systole in relation to age was studied in 300 asymptomatic men aged 18–42 years. PMLM of 4 mm or more on two‐dimensional directed M‐mode echocardiography was found in 8% (16/200) of subjects under age 35 years, but in only 2% (2/100) of those aged 35 years or more (p<0.05). On two‐dimensional echocardiography, 16% (31/200) of men under 35 years old had PMLM ≥0.40 mm2 compared with 1% (1/100) of those 35 years or more (p<0.001). The findings were not related to differences in left ventricular cavity dimensions or in the extent of systolic ventricular contraction. Body mass index (BMI) increased with age, but there was a significant and independent negative correlation of age with PMLM after controlling for BMI. The data are compatible with the hypothesis that the aging process is associated with decreased mobility of the mitral valve or annulus with lesser degrees of backward bowing or billowing of the leaflets during systole. Age should be taken into account in determining “normal” values for mitral leaflet motion.
Two‐dimensional and pulsed doppler echocardiographic diagnosis of an acquired aortic right ventricular fistula
Authors: Chow W.‐H. , Lee P.‐K. , Cheung K.‐L. , Mok C.‐K.
Published: July 2009

A patient with an asymptomatic aortic right ventricular fistula acquired after aortic valve and mitral valve replacement is presented. This was diagnosed by two‐dimensional and pulsed Doppler echocardiography, and confirmed at cardiac catheterization.
Effects of intracoronary injection of ergonovine on angiographic normal coronary arteries: Study of 108 consecutive patients
Authors: Fournier J. A. , Cortacero J. A. P. , Turáa A. , Hernáanez‐Aparicio C. , Granado C. , Vallejo J.
Published: July 2009

To assess the local and systemic intracoronary (IC) ergonovine maleate (EM), single or repeated 25 m̈g bolus injections were administered to 108 consecutive patients with chest pain and normal coronary arteriograms. Coronary artery spasm (CAS) was induced in 17 (15.7%) patients. None of these patients developed ST‐segment depression, and ST‐segment elevation appeared in only 6 (35.3%). In 59 of the 91 patients without CAS, both the IC and the intravenous (IV) EM arteriographic and hemodynamic effects were compared. The mean diameter of the vessels was reduced by 15% (p < 0.001) after two single 25 m̈g ICEM injections. Only insignificant changes were induced in the heart rate (baseline 80±15; after ICEM 79 ± 15 beats/min; p=NS) and systolic aortic pressure (baseline 147 ± 27; after ICEM 149±28 mmHG; p=NS). Following 350 m̈g of cumulative IVEM, the mean coronary diameter decreased by 20% (p<0.01 vs. ICEM dose) and the heart rate diminished slightly (76 ± 12 beats/min, p<0.01). However, the systolic aortic pressures did increase by 16% (171±28 mmHg; p<0.001). No major complications were observed. Thus, to induce CAS the IC delivery route appears to be safe, allows for more accurate titration, and adverse systemic effects, such as hypertension, are avoided.
Cardiovascular reactivity and silent ischemia in response to mental stress in symptomatic and asymptomatic coronary artery disease patients: Results of a pilot study
Authors: Norvell N. , Roth D. L. , Franco E. , Pepine C. J.
Published: July 2009

The current study was designed to examine cardiovascular reactivity to psychological tasks and its relationship to provocation of ischemia in asymptomatic coronary artery disease (CAD) patients with documented silent ischemia and those with painful ischemia. ECG, heart rate, and blood pressure responses to mental stress were collected for 13 patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and for 6 healthy control subjects. Six of the CAD patients were asymptomatic (documented silent ischemia and no history of angina), while the remaining 7 were symptomatic (history of angina). Three types of mental stress were employed: white noise (a passive stressor), digits repeated backwards (an active stressor), and a math task plus white noise (active +passive stressor). Results indicate that significant increases in heart rate and blood pressure, but not silent ischemic episodes, were in‐ duced by the mental stress tasks. In addition, patients with documented exercise‐induced and ambulant silent ischemia showed trends of blunted autonomic responsiveness to the stressors. On the digits backwards task, the CAD patients with silent ischemia showed significantly lower diastolic blood pressure responses compared with controls or angina patients. Findings suggest that ischemic episodes are not easily induced by brief mental stress. However, results indicate that asymptomatic CAD patients with silent ischemia may be lacking in autonomic responsiveness, particularly in terms of peripheral resistance, to mental stress in comparison with health controls and symptomatic ischemic patients. Further investigation is needed to explore how patients with silent ischemia typically respond autonomically to mental stress and how blunted reactivity may relate to the provocation of unrecognized ischemic episodes.
Elevated pain threshold in patients with effort‐induced angina pectoris and asymptomatic myocardial ischemia during exercise test
Authors: Pedersen F. , Pietersen A. , Madsen J. K. , Ballegaard S. , Meyer C. , Trojaborg W.
Published: July 2009

The purpose of the present study was to analyze the prevalence of asymptomatic (silent) myocardial ischemia during exercise testing among patients with effort‐induced angina pectoris, and further, to compare the pain threshold of patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic myocardial ischemia. A group of 26 patients comprised the study. In half of the patients myocardial ischemia during the exercise testing was silent and in one half it was symptomatic. Asymptomatic myocardial ischemia was defined as an asymptomatic ST‐segment depression ≥0.1 mV, lasting longer than 60 s during an exercise test. In patients with asymptomatic ischemia the pain thresholds both on toe and finger were significantly higher than in patients with symptomatic ischemia: mean values were 10.1 versus 4.9 mA on the toes, p <0.025, and 8.4 versus 2.5 mA on the fingers, p <0.01. We conclude that asymptomatic myocardial ischemia during exercise test is seen often in patients with angina pectoris and that this may be due to an increased pain threshold.
Native valve infective endocarditis in the 1970s versus the 1980s: Underlying cardiac lesions and infecting organisms
Authors: Weinberger I. , Rotenberg Z. , Zacharovitch D. , Fuchs J. , Davidson E. , Agmon J.
Published: July 2009

A retrospective review of the records of 135 patients with proven or suspected endocarditis, seen between January 1970 and December 1987, is presented. Among the findings: (1) Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) as an underlying lesion was more common in the 1980s group of patients (22%) than in the 1970s group (6%, p < 0.01); (2) no significant difference was found in the occurrence of pathogens between the 1970s and the 1980s groups of patients; (3) in most patients (17 of 19) with MVP, the organisms isolated were Streptococci viridans; (4) most patients (15 of 17) with MVP had undergone a dental procedure without prior antibiotic treatment in the two months prior to admission. Prophylactic antibiotic treatment is suggested in patients with MVP undergoing dental procedure, especially in a subset of patients with flail or redundant valve leaflet as 16 of our MVP patients (out of 17) had this pathology on echocardiogram.
Prophylactic treatment after electroconversion of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Karlson B. W. , Herlitz J. , Edvardsson N. , Olsson S. B.
Published: July 2009

Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia. Sinus rhythm can often be restored by electroconversion, but the relapse rate is high. Various antiarrhythmic drugs have been used to maintain sinus rhythm after electroconversion. This article reviews the experience with these drugs and suggests a treatment strategy.
Unrecognized left ventricular dysfunction in an apparently healthy cocaine abuse population
Authors: Bertolet B. D. , Freund G. , Perchalski D. L. , Pepine C. J. , Martin C. A. , Williams C. M.
Published: July 2009

To determine the frequency and severity of clinically unrecognized left ventricular (LV) dysfunction related to cocaine use, 84 asymptomatic cocaine abusers underwent cardiac evaluation which included chest x‐ray, electrocardiography (ECG), and radionuclide angiography after a two‐week abstinence from cocaine use. LV dysfunction was discovered in 6/84 (7%). Regional wall motion abnormalities suggesting a localized myocardial abnormality were found in 2, whereas an ejection fraction <50% suggesting a more global process was noted in 4. An abnormal chest x‐ray was found in only 1 subject and none had abnormal ECGs. in each of these cases, repeated and protracted use of cocaine was documented and the suggestion of cardiac dysfunction was supported by at least one other independent abnormal finding. in these 6 cases, the dysfunction was clinically unrecognized and unsuspected after routine evaluation. The significance of subclinical LV dysfunction in this population has not been determined and requires long‐term study.
Lidocaine in the early phase of acute myocardial infarction: The controversy over prophylactic or selective use
Authors: Zehender M. , Kasper W. , Just H.
Published: July 2009

In acute myocardial infarction, lidocaine is considered the drug of choice for the treatment of malignant ventricular arrhythmias. While initially a so‐called “selective” treatment strategy prevailed, in which lidocaine was administered only after the onset of certain “warning arrhythmias,” the prophylactic use of lidocaine in acute myocardial infarction has been gaining wider usage in intravenous and intramuscular application in recent years. Both therapeutic applications have been found to be problematic of late, which has led to increasingly restrictive use of lidocaine. While in selective treatment forms, the definition and prompt recognition of the so‐called warning arrhythmias created especially acute problems, the prophylactic therapeutic use is problematic due to the occurrence of sometimes serious side effects, which is to be expected as the size of the collective being treated increases. Both treatment forms also appear limited by the narrow preventive efficacy of lidocaine against malignant ventricular arrhythmias, especially against ventricular fibrillation. The current therapeutic recommendation for lidocaine in acute myocardial infarction should be limited to patients presenting with very frequent and complex ventricular arrhythmias, especially when these are elicited by an R‐on‐T phenomenon. Side effects and other therapeutic problems encountered when me therapeutic modality is switched or adjusted can be greatly reduced by careful dosing and selection of the optimal combination substances.
Myocardial infarction during a football game: Empiric estimation of the contribution of skeletal muscle damage to the serum creatine kinase activity
Authors: Studer P. P. , Bachmann C. , Gertsch M. , Peheim E. , Stäubli M.
Published: July 2009

A 40‐year‐old untrained participant of a competitive football game experienced chest pain after 20 minutes of playing time. An acute anterior myocardial infarction was diagnosed by electrocardiographic criteria and the creatine kinase rose to its maximum of 3900 U/l (normal range < 125 U/I) by 24 h with a CK‐MB fraction of 6.1% In order to estimate the contribution of skeletal muscular work to CK activity, the course of CK activity was prospectively measured in 11 untrained participants of a competitive football game, who had normal electrocardiographic findings on exercise testing. Individual peak values of CK correlated positively (p < 0.01) with the time spent in play. Based on this observation we could estimate that, at most, 14% of the total CK was contributed by skeletal muscle damage in our patient. When total CK was elevated above 125 U/I, the percentage of CK‐MB activity did not exceed 6% of total CK in any case. 3‐methylhistidine, an indicator of contractile protein turnover and creatinine were prospectively determined in spot urine samples before the game and for up to 48 h after the game. 3‐methylhistidine/creatinine ratios did not change from baseline after the game and no correlation with CK was found. Urine 3‐methylhistidine/creatinine, measured within 48 h after a football game, does not contribute to the quantification of skeletal muscle damage.
Treatment with diltiazem preoperatively in open heart surgery for myocardial protection: Experimental studies in dogs with chronic healed myocardial infarction
Authors: BrÄutigamd P. , Just H. , Freudenberg N.
Published: July 2009

Calcium antagonists have become important in open heart surgery because of their effects on myocardial protection and cardioplegia. We evaluated the effect of pretreatment with the calcium antagonist diltiazem for myocardial protection in dogs with experimentally induced, chronic, healed myocardial infarction in a double‐blind randomized study. One group consisted of 5 dogs treated with diltiazem (10 mg/kg body weight) for 7 days preoperatively, while a second group of 4 dogs were treated with placebo. All animals then underwent hypothermic, ischemic cardiac arrest (90 min) with extracorporeal circulation (ECC), followed by 30 min of reperfusion. Hemodynamic parameters were measured before and after ECC. An EKG was recorded during the entire procedure. The myocardium was studied by light microscopy for fresh necroses. The old, experimentally induced infarction scars were quantified by a new method that was developed for planimetry of the histological specimens. The diltiazem group compared with the placebo group showed myocardial cell necroses to a smaller extent. The hemodynamic studies supported the contention that diltiazem given preoperatively has a myocardial protective effect. These results encourage further studies on the use of diltiazem preoperatively for myocardial protection.
Relation of angiographically defined coronary artery disease to serum lipoprotein levels
Authors: O'Sullivan J. J. , Matthew A. , Conroy R. M. , Erwin R. J. , Duggan P. F.
Published: July 2009

The relationship of coronary artery disease to plasma lipoproteins was examined in 43 men admitted to our unit with suspected ischemic heart disease. Coronary arteriography was performed, and a score reflecting the severity of disease was assigned to the angiogram. Plasma, obtained after a 12‐h overnight fast, was assayed for triglycerides, total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and HDL‐3 cholesterol. HDL‐2 cholesterol was found by subtraction. The cholesterol contents of very low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL) and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) were quantitated by the Freid‐wald equation. Men with high coronary scores tended to be older, and subjects with moderate coronary disease had significantly higher total and LDL cholesterol values than those with minimal disease. Age was the only factor to be significantly associated with coronary score and there was no significant association between coronary score and total LDL and HDL cholesterol or its subfractions when the age factor was taken into account.
Sensitive and fast identification of urinary human, synthetic and animal insulin by means of nano‐UPLC coupled with high‐resolution/high‐accuracy mass spectrometry
Authors: Thomas Andreas , Schänzer Wilhelm , Delahaut Phillipe , Thevis Mario
Published: July 2009

The double‐chain polypeptide insulin and its synthetic (Insulin Glulisine, Insulin Aspart, Insulin Glargine, or Insulin Lispro) or animal analogues (porcine insulin or bovine insulin) are potential performance‐enhancing agents in elite sports or potentially effective toxins in forensic science.

The present study demonstrates an analytical method to purify the insulins simultaneously from urine specimens with an approach based on immunoaffinity isolation, using coated magnetic beads (anti‐mouse) and a primary anti‐insulin antibody (IgG, monoclonal). The extracts were purified sufficiently for separation by means of nano‐flow liquid chromatography coupled with nano‐scale high‐resolution, high‐accuracy ESI‐MS/MS. Elucidation of collision‐induced dissociations with product ion experiments using the fivefold protonated precursor ion of each target analyte enabled all synthetic and animal insulins to be differentiated from their human counterpart, which was particularly important for Lispro, possessing the same molecular mass as human insulin.

The method was fully validated for specificity, limit of detection (LOD, 0.5 fmol/mL), precision (<20%), recovery (approximately 30%) and linearity (2–40 fmol/mL) for all target analytes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitation of tetrahydrocannabinol in hair using immunoassay and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometric detection
Authors: Coulter Cynthia , Taruc Margaux , Tuyay James , Moore Christine
Published: July 2009

A quantitative analytical procedure for the determination of Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in hair has been developed and validated using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectral detection (LC‐MS/MS). Specimens that were determined as containing cannabinoids following immunoassay testing were quantified using solid‐phase extraction followed by liquid chromatographic separation and tandem mass spectral detection in positive electrospray ionization mode. For confirmation, two transitions were monitored and one ratio determined. Samples being reported as positive were required to have both transitions present, the ratio of quantifying transition to qualifying transition being within 20% of that determined from known calibration standards. The limit of quantitation and the limit of detection was 10 pg/mg. The percentage recovery of the THC from hair at 20 pg/mg was 56% and a matrix effect of the hair showed an ion suppression percentage of −51%. The immunochemical screening method was performed following a rapid aqueous extraction, requiring only 10 mg of hair; the confirmatory procedure required 20 mg of hair. The methods were applied to proficiency specimens from the Society of Hair Testing, which had been received in August 2008. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence and neuropsychiatric comorbidities of alcohol use disorders in an elderly Korean population
Authors: Kim Ki Woong , Choi Eun Ae , Lee Seok Bum , Park Joon Hyuk , Lee Jung Jae , Huh Yoonseok , Youn Jong Choul , Jhoo Jin Hyeong , Choo Il Han , Kim Myoung‐Hee , Lee Dong Young , Woo Jong Inn
Published: July 2009

Objectives

We investigated the prevalence and comorbidities of problem drinking in community‐dwelling elders living in Korea.

Methods

Structured face‐to‐face diagnostic interviews were administered to the 714 Korean elders randomly sampled from Seongnam, Korea. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM‐IV) criteria and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores, the participants were categorized into one of six diagnostic groups: lifetime abstainer, ex‐drinker, social drinking, at‐risk drinking, alcohol abuse, and alcohol dependence.

Results

Prevalence rates of social drinking, at‐risk drinking, alcohol abuse, and alcohol dependence were estimated to be 13.60%, 5.42%, 2.28%, and 2.92%, respectively. Problem drinking was associated with increased risks of smoking (OR = 3.52), whereas social drinking was associated with decreased risks of stroke (OR = 0.27) and depression (OR = 0.49).

Conclusions

Problem drinking was common particularly in men and associated with smoking. Social drinking was associated with the lower risks of stroke and depression. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Early 20th century Arctic warming in retrospect
Authors: Wood Kevin R. , Overland James E.
Published: July 2009

The major early 20th century climatic fluctuation (∼1920–1940) has been the subject of scientific enquiry from the time it was detected in the 1920s. The papers of scientists who studied the event first‐hand have faded into obscurity but their insights are relevant today. We review this event through a rediscovery of early research and new assessments of the instrumental record. Much of the inter‐annual to decadal scale variability in surface air temperature (SAT) anomaly patterns and related ecosystem effects in the Arctic and elsewhere can be attributed to the superposition of leading modes of variability in the atmospheric circulation. Meridional circulation patterns were an important factor in the high latitudes of the North Atlantic during the early climatic fluctuation. Sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies that appeared during this period were congruent with low‐frequency variability in the climate system but were themselves most likely the result of anomalous forcing by the atmosphere. The high‐resolution data necessary to verify this hypothesis are lacking, but the consistency of multiple lines of evidence provides strong support. Our findings indicate that early climatic fluctuation is best interpreted as a large but random climate excursion imposed on top of the steadily rising global mean temperature associated with anthropogenic forcing. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Sensory properties of some synthetic high‐intensity sweeteners in water solutions
Authors: Świa̧der Katarzyna , Waszkiewicz‐Robak Bożena , Świderski Franciszek , Kostyra Eliza
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND: When sucrose is eliminated from products to meet consumers' demand for calorie‐free products and substitutes are used, sweetness becomes an important characteristic. The objective of this study was to compare sensory properties of four sucrose substitutes: aspartame, acesulfame K, sodium saccharin and sodium cyclamate in water solutions.

RESULTS: The lowest concentrations of sweeteners such as 0.35 g kg−1 for aspartame and acesulfame K showed an equi‐sweet level relative to approx. 55 g kg−1 aqueous sucrose solution, whereas 2.3 g kg−1 sodium cyclamate and 0.4 g kg−1 sodium saccharin relative to approx. 65 g kg−1. Aspartame had almost the same sweetness potency as acesulfame K, whereas the remaining sweeteners differed completely. The four sweeteners showed their specific sensory profiles. Besides the characteristics of sweetness and bitterness, metallic and astringent attributes plus warming and cooling effects were found.

CONCLUSIONS: Of the four sweeteners, aspartame and sodium cyclamate can be considered as the best sucrose substitutes due to their similar sensory profiles to the sucrose. The data showing the interdependence between sweetness intensity of the sweeteners and sucrose are useful as a quick and easy indicator of the sweetener amount having equi‐sweet levels relative to sucrose. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Global well‐posedness for two modified‐Leray‐α‐MHD models with partial viscous terms
Authors: Zhou Yong , Fan Jishan
Published: July 2009

In this paper, we will prove global well‐posedness for the Cauchy problems of two modified‐Leray‐α‐MHD models with partial viscous terms. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimization‐based dynamic human walking prediction: One step formulation
Authors: Xiang Yujiang , Arora Jasbir S. , Rahmatalla Salam , Abdel‐Malek Karim
Published: July 2009

A new methodology is introduced in this work to simulate normal walking using a spatial digital human model. The proposed methodology is based on an optimization formulation that minimizes the dynamic effort of people during walking while considering associated physical and kinematical constraints. Normal walking is formulated as a symmetric and cyclic motion. Recursive Lagrangian dynamics with analytical gradients for all the constraints and objective function are incorporated in the optimization process. Dynamic balance of the model is enforced by direct use of the equations of motion. In addition, the ground reaction forces are calculated using a new algorithm that enforces overall equilibrium of the human skeletal model. External loads on the human body, such as backpacks, are also included in the formulation. Simulation results with the present methodology show good correlation with the experimental data obtained from human subjects and the existing literature. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Randomization for clinical research: An easy‐to‐use spreadsheet method
Authors: Padhye Nikhil S. , Cron Stanley G. , Gusick Gary M. , Hamlin Shannan K. , Hanneman Sandra K.
Published: July 2009

In this article, we illustrate a new method for random selection and random assignment that we developed in a pilot study for a randomized clinical trial. The randomization database is supported by a commonly available spreadsheet. Formulas were written for randomizing participants and for creating a “shadow” system to verify integrity of the randomization. Advantages of this method are that it is easy to use, effective, and portable, allowing it to be shared among multiple investigators at multiple study sites. Clinical researchers may find the method useful for research projects that are pilot studies or conducted with limited funding. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 32:561–566, 2009
Within‐ and between‐orchard variability in the sensitivity of Venturia inaequalis to myclobutanil, a DMI fungicide, in the UK
Authors: Gao Liqiang , Berrie Angela , Yang Jiarong , Xu Xiangming
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND: Myclobutanil, a demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicide, is an important fungicide for controlling apple scab and powdery mildew. Overuse of this fungicide has led to establishment of scab isolates with reduced sensitivity to this fungicide in several countries. Experiments were conducted to determine the sensitivity of the causal agent of apple scab, Venturia inaequalis (Cooke) Winter, to myclobutanil in the UK, in order to assess whether there is a relationship between fungal insensitivity and the number of DMI applications, and establishing whether fungal sensitivity varied greatly within an orchard.

RESULTS: Reduced sensitivity of V. inaequalis to myclobutanil was positively related linearly to the number of DMI applications. ED50 values ranged from 0.028 to 1.017 mg L−1 (average = 0.292) for the baseline population, whereas isolates from two other orchards had much greater ED50 values, ranging from 0.085 to 5.213 mg L−1 (average = 1.852). There was significant variation in fungal sensitivity to myclobutanil among fungal isolates from different locations within a single orchard.

CONCLUSIONS: Spatial spread of insensitive isolates of V. inaequalis to myclobutanil is likely to be limited in distance. Conidia may be an important source of primary inoculum. Myclobutanil should still be effective for most field isolates, but its use should be strategically integrated with other groups of fungicides. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Electronic structure of superconducting gallium‐doped germanium from ab‐initio calculations
Authors: Lebègue S.
Published: July 2009

Using ab‐initio calculations, we study the electronic structure of gallium‐doped germanium, which was found recently to be a superconductor, with a critical temperature of 0.5 K, and a particularly low density of Cooper pairs. The calculations of the electronic properties reveal that no sign of an impurity band is observed, and that the Fermi level lies in the valence band of Ge. Moreover, the calculation of the phonon frequencies shows that a new mode associated to the Ga atom is appearing, around 175 cm–1. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Optimal WiMax planning with security considerations
Authors: El‐Hajj Wassim , Hajj Hazem M. , Barka Ezedin , Dawy Zaher , El Hmaissy Omar , Ghaddar Dima , Aitour Youssef
Published: July 2009

In the communication sector, the optimal objective is to equate quality and cost. The technologies that best serve these objectives are Wireless Access Technologies since they are easily deployed and capable of reaching and serving customers everywhere in a cost effective way. In this paper, we examine the communication options, and account for a country's geography to propose optimal WiMax planning keeping in mind the security concerns that are inherent in wireless communication. To perform WiMax radio network planning, we use a network simulation tool from ATDI called ICS Telecom. Our approach offers all users a minimum bandwidth of 1.4 Mbps as well as a coverage that exceeds 90% for all indoor users in the area under study. We optimize the network by iteratively minimizing the number of base stations required, and equivalently minimizing the cost, while maximizing the coverage for the subscribers. We also analyze the impact of security on the performance of WiMax. More specifically, we use well‐known simulation software called Qualnet to simulate a WiMax environment under different security protocols and encryption scenarios. We then analyze the results to determine the impact of the added security features on the data rates between the base station(s) subscribers. The results of our proposed WiMax planning approach and the conducted security experiments showed that efficient deployment and coverage plans could be achieved for big cities as well as for rural areas. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radio access technology recognition by classification of low temporal resolution power spectrum measurements
Authors: Gueguen L. , Sayrac B.
Published: July 2009

In this paper, a machine learning approach is proposed for automatic recognition of the radio access technology (RAT) based on supervised classification of spectrum power measurements in a cognitive radio context. Recognition of the active local RATs allows the cognitive terminal to make informed decisions on which wireless technology to camp, and to adapt its transmission to the wireless environment. To this end, supervised classification of signals obtained from wide band spectrum power measurements with low temporal resolution is carried out. As a first step, generic features are extracted from the power spectrum measurements. Then several supervised classification algorithms, namely the support vector machines (SVMs),k‐nearest neighbors (kNN) and C4.5 are tested. The effects of reducing the number of features on classification accuracy is also tested through feature selection methods. Finally, the impact of the signal duration on classification accuracy is investigated. The obtained results demonstrate that the tested supervised classification algorithms, combined with simple feature extraction and selection methods, are good candidates for RAT recognition from low temporal resolution spectrum power measurements. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cross‐level PRC transmitter for TH‐PAM UWB systems
Authors: Wen Wenkun , Zhou Yuanping , Xia Minghua
Published: July 2009

A cross‐level pre‐RAKE combining (PRC) scheme for time hopping pulse amplitude modulation ultra wideband (TH‐PAM UWB) transmitter is studied in this paper. A two‐stage cross‐level PRC (CL‐PRC) scheme is proposed. The conventional PRC schemes suppress all the chip‐wise interference. However, the proposed scheme suppresses only the specific frame‐wise inter‐symbol interference (ISI) by exploiting the characteristic that the information bits are transmitted only at ultra short time slots. This results in a low complexity pre‐equalizer without bit error rate (BER) performance degradation. Furthermore, an order selection rule is presented to achieve the tradeoff between signal‐to‐interference ratio (SIR) and computational complexity. Simulation results illustrate the superior SIR and BER performance of our proposal. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A frequency‐aware data‐centric mechanism for wireless sensor networks
Authors: Chang Chih‐Yung , Sheu Jang‐Ping , Chang Sheng‐Wen , Chen Yu‐Chieh
Published: July 2009

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are characterized by their low bandwidth, limited energy, and largely distributed deployment. To reduce the flooding overhead raised by transmitting query and data information, several data‐centric storage (DCS) mechanisms are proposed. However, the locations of these data‐centric nodes significantly impact the power consumption and efficiency for information queries and storage capabilities, especially in a multi‐sink environment. This paper proposes a novel dissemination approach, which is namely the dynamic data‐centric routing and storage mechanism (DDCRS), to dynamically determine locations of data‐centric nodes according to sink nodes' location and data collecting rate and automatically construct shared paths from data‐centric nodes to multiple sinks. To save the power consumption, the data‐centric node is changed when new sink nodes participate when the WSNs or some queries change their frequencies. The simulation results reveal that the proposed protocol outperforms existing protocols in terms of power conservation and power balancing. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thorough protocol extensions for integrating DSR‐based MobileAd HocNetworks with the Internet
Authors: Ding Shuo
Published: July 2009

The integration of the MobileAd HocNetworks (MANETs) into 4G systems will help to increase the networking flexibility and coverage of existing infrastructure networks. One of the crucial challenges is modifying existing reactivead hocrouting protocols to support external routing operations. This paper contributes thorough protocol extensions for connecting DSR‐based MANETs with the Internet (DSR‐IE). DSR routing protocol is extended to effectively support External Route Discovery and External Route Maintenance functions. In particular, a novel External Route Discovery scheme,Comprehensive External Route Judgment, (CERJ) is proposed. Mobile IP is utilized to manage seamless data services. Finally, OPNET simulation models are developed to demonstrate the implementability and effectiveness of the proposed schemes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Potential allelopathic effect of Eucalyptusgrandis across a range of plantation ages
Authors: Zhang Dan‐ju , Zhang Jian , Yang Wan‐qin , Wu Fu‐zhong
Published: July 2009

Allelopathy of the eucalypt has been considered as an important mechanism for the biodiversity reduction in the eucalypt plantation. To understand the allelopathic potential of the eucalypt (Eucalyptus grandis) roots and rhizosphere soil along a chronosequence (2, 4, 6, 8, 10 years), the germination and growth characteristics of three plant species (Raphanus sativus, Phaseolus aureus, and Lolium perenne) growing nearby or beneath the eucalypt plantations were measured. The results showed that aqueous extract of E. grandis root suppressed the germination and early seedling growth of the target plants. The younger E. grandis exhibited a comparatively stronger allelopathic potential. The highest dose root extracts from 4 years old E. grandis showed the strongest inhibitory effects on the germination rates of the target species, the inhibitory rates were about 48, 51.2, and 56.56% for R. sativus, P. aureus, and L. perenne, respectively. However, present biotests of rhizosphere soils from 6, 8, and 10‐year‐old plantations exhibited a remarkable stimulative effect on L. perenne, which indicated that the soil might neutralize or dilute allelopathic agents with the increase of plantation age. In addition, according to GC–MS analysis, more allelopathic potential compounds were found in the rhizosphere soil and roots of younger E. grandis plantation. Moreover, more allelochemicals were obtained from soil than from roots. The allelopathic compounds in roots and rhizosphere soil may play important roles in allelopathy of E. grandis plantation. More attention should be paid to the younger E. grandis plantations for the relative higher allelopathic effects.
Multi-Layered Films Containing a Biomimetic Stimuli-Responsive Recombinant Protein
Authors: Barbosa J. S. , Costa R. R. , Testera A. M. , Alonso M. , Rodríguez-Cabello J. C. , Mano J. F.
Published: July 2009

Electrostatic self-assembly was used to fabricate new smart multi-layer coatings, using a recombinant elastin-like polymer (ELP) and chitosan as the counterion macromolecule. The ELP was bioproduced, purified and its purity and expected molecular weight were assessed. Aggregate size measurements, obtained by light scattering of dissolved ELP, were performed as a function of temperature and pH to assess the smart properties of the polymer. The build-up of multi-layered films containing ELP and chitosan, using a layer-by-layer methodology, was followed by quartz-crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring. Atomic force microscopy analysis permitted to demonstrate that the topography of the multi-layered films could respond to temperature. This work opens new possibilities for the use of ELPs in the fabrication of biodegradable smart coatings and films, offering new platforms in biotechnology and in the biomedical area.
Vegetational response to human colonisation of the coastal and volcanic environments of Ketilsstaðir, southern Iceland
Authors: Erlendsson Egill , Edwards Kevin J. , Buckland Paul C.
Published: July 2009

Tephra-dated, high-resolution pollen profiles from Ketilsstaðir, southern Iceland, indicate a largely unwooded pre-settlement environment, a probable consequence of the exposed coastal location. The degree of change associated with the Norselandnámis more limited than in many Icelandic pollen diagrams. There are three main periods of change in the post-settlement vegetational development of the area. Firstly, Norse settlement affected the hydrology of the bog, resulting in the near-disappearance ofSphagnumand agricultural activity led to a reduction of some species (e.g.Angelicaspp. andSalix). Secondly, the establishment of probable permanent settlement in the mid-11th century AD initiated expansion of such apophytic taxa asPlantagospp. Lactuceae,Ranunculusspp. and Pteridophytes. Thirdly, the ≥ 10 cm thick Katla tephra, deposited in AD 1357, enhanced drainage of the bog surface, favouring dryland taxa (e.g. Poaceae,Galiumand Lactuceae). The tephra deposit and the associated drainage probably caused or contributed to the local extinction of the wetland beetleHydraena britteni. The study has enabled a series of natural and humanly-related issues to be addressed including tephra-vegetation relationships, the anthropogenic reduction in plant diversity, and comparisons between historical and environmental settlement records.
Diffuse Abdominal Uptake Mimicking Peritonitis in Gallium Inflammatory Scan: An Unusual Feature of Acute Q Fever
Authors: Chang Ko , Ko Wen‐Chien , Li Bi‐Fang , Liu Ping‐Yen , Chiu Nan‐Tsing
Published: July 2009

The clinical features in patients with acute Q fever are variable. We present a patient with fever, abdominal distension, pericardial effusion, and diffuse gallium uptake in the abdominal cavity, mimicking peritonitis or peritoneum carcinomatosis. Serologic surveys revealed acute infection by Coxiella burnetii. The patient responded poorly to doxycycline and improved with oral levofloxacin. During the afebrile period, gallium inflammatory scan showed resolution of previous diffuse uptake in the abdomen, and cardiac echo resolution of pericardial effusion, which was suggestive of peritoneal inflammation related to acute C. burnetii infection. Therefore, clinicians in Taiwan should be alert to the possibility of acute Q fever in patients with fever of unknown cause, especially with clinical evidence of peritoneal and/or pericardial inflammation.