bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cobenefits of Replacing Car Trips with Alternative Transportation: A Review of Evidence and Methodological Issues
Authors: Xia Ting , Zhang Ying , Crabb Shona , Shah Pushan
Published: July 2013

It has been reported that motor vehicle emissions contribute nearly a quarter of world energy-related greenhouse gases and cause nonnegligible air pollution primarily in urban areas. Reducing car use and increasing ecofriendly alternative transport, such as public and active transport, are efficient approaches to mitigate harmful environmental impacts caused by a large amount of vehicle use. Besides the environmental benefits of promoting alternative transport, it can also induce other health and economic benefits. At present, a number of studies have been conducted to evaluate cobenefits from greenhouse gas mitigation policies. However, relatively few have focused specifically on the transport sector. A comprehensive understanding of the multiple benefits of alternative transport could assist with policy making in the areas of transport, health, and environment. However, there is no straightforward method which could estimate cobenefits effect at one time. In this paper, the links between vehicle emissions and air quality, as well as the health and economic benefits from alternative transport use, are considered, and methodological issues relating to the modelling of these cobenefits are discussed.
Ion-Acoustic Instabilities in a Multi-Ion Plasma
Authors: Abraham Noble P. , Sebastian Sijo , Sreekala G. , Jayapal R. , Anilkumar C. P. , Chandu Venugopal
Published: July 2013

We have, in this paper, studied the stability of the ion-acoustic wave in a plasma composed of hydrogen, positively and negatively charged oxygen ions, and electrons, which approximates very well the plasma environment around a comet. Modelling each cometary component (H+, O+, and O−) by a ring distribution, we find that ion-acoustic waves can be generated at frequencies comparable to the hydrogen ion plasma frequency. The dispersion relation has been solved both analytically and numerically. We find that the ratio of the ring speed (u⊥s) to the thermal spread (vts) modifies the dispersion characteristics of the ion-acoustic wave. The contrasting behaviour of the phase velocity of the ion-acoustic wave in the presence of O− ions for u⊥s>vts (and vice versa) can be used to detect the presence of negatively charged oxygen ions and also their thermalization.
Dynamic Model of Contact Interface between Stator and Rotor
Authors: Zhao ZengHui , Wang YuPing , Yuan YiKun , Zhao XiangDong
Published: July 2013

Based on the equivalent principle, a linear spring contact model was established for the friction layer between stator and rotor. Different contact conditions were described by a distance index δ. Detailed analysis of the nonlinear contact behavior especially the static and dynamic slipping was carried on using a space-time equation. A contact deflection angle was proposed to quantitatively express the influence of friction force on the output performance. A more precision simulation model was established based on the theoretical analysis, and influences of different preload pressures and elastic modulus E m of friction layer on output performance were analyzed. The results showed the simulation results had very good consistency with experimental results, and the model could well reflect the output characteristics of contact interface.
Distributions of Usage and the Costs of Conventional Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine for Lung Cancer Patients in Taiwan
Authors: Liao Yueh-Hsiang , Lin Jaung-Geng , Lin Cheng-Chieh , Li Tsai-Chung
Published: July 2013

Background. This study aims to analyze the utilization patterns of patients with lung cancer stratified by surgery status.Methods. A retrospective cohort study was conducted from 1996 to 2010 by using the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2005.Results. Among the 7,677 lung cancer patients, 230 (31.17%) and 1,826 (26.32%) who have and have not undergone surgery have used TCM outpatient services, respectively. For lung cancer patients who have not undergone surgery, patients who are aged 70 years and older, males, occupational members, and farmers and fishermen are less likely to avail of TCM services. For lung cancer patients who have undergone surgery, the likelihood of TCM users is higher in residents who used TCM one year prior to lung cancer diagnosis and in patients with insurance amounts ranging from ≥NT$60,000. The total amount paid per visit for WM is higher than that for one year of TCM outpatient care before and after lung cancer diagnosis.Conclusion. The factors associated with TCM use varied according to surgery status. The costs of insurance covering TCM were consistently lower than those covering WM for lung cancer patients. These findings would be useful for health policy makers who are considering TCM and WM integration.
miR-205 Targets PTEN and PHLPP2 to Augment AKT Signaling and Drive Malignant Phenotypes in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Cai Junchao , Fang Lishan , Huang Yongbo , Li Rong , Yuan Jie , Yang Yi , Zhu Xun , Chen Baixue , Wu Jueheng , Li Mengfeng
Published: July 2013

AKT signaling is constitutively activated in various cancers, due in large part to loss-of-function in the PTEN and PHLPP phosphatases that act as tumor suppressor genes. However, AKT signaling is activated widely in non–small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) where genetic alterations in PTEN or PHLPP genes are rare, suggesting an undefined mechanism(s) for their suppression. In this study, we report upregulation of the oncomir microRNA (miR)-205 in multiple subtypes of NSCLC, which directly represses PTEN and PHLPP2 expression and activates both the AKT/FOXO3a and AKT/mTOR signaling pathways. miR-205 overexpression in NSCLC cells accelerated tumor cell proliferation and promoted blood vessel formation in vitro and in vivo. Conversely, RNA interference–mediated silencing of endogenous miR-205 abrogated these effects. The malignant properties induced by miR-205 in NSCLC cells were reversed by AKT inhibitors, FOXO3a overexpression, rapamycin treatment, or restoring PHLPP2 or PTEN expression. Mechanistic investigations revealed that miR-205 overexpression was a result of NF-κB–mediated transactivation of the miR-205 gene. Taken together, our results define a major epigenetic mechanism for suppression of PTEN and PHLPP2 in NSCLC, identifying a pivotal role for miR-205 in development and progression of this widespread disease. Cancer Res; 73(17); 5402–15. ©2013 AACR.
Fusion-Derived Epithelial Cancer Cells Express Hematopoietic Markers and Contribute to Stem Cell and Migratory Phenotype in Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Ramakrishnan Mallika , Mathur Sandeep R. , Mukhopadhyay Asok
Published: July 2013

For a long time, the external milieu of cancer cells was considered to be of secondary importance when compared with its intrinsic properties. That has changed now as the microenvironment is considered to be a major contributing factor toward the progression of tumor. In this study, we show that in human and mouse epithelial ovarian carcinoma and mouse lung carcinoma, the interaction between tumor-infiltrating hematopoietic cells and epithelial cancer cells results in their fusion. Intriguingly, even after the fusion event, cancer cells retain the expression of the pan-hematopoietic marker (CD45) and various markers of hematopoietic lineage, including those of hematopoietic stem cells, indicating that the hematopoietic genome is not completely reprogrammed. This observation may have implications on the bone marrow contribution to the cancer stem cell population. Interestingly, it was seen that in both cancer models, the expression of chemokine receptor CXCR4 was largely contributed to by the fused compartment of cancer cells. We hypothesize that the superior migratory potential gained by the cancer cells due to the fusion helps in its dissemination to various secondary organs upon activation of the CXCR4/CXCL12 axis. We are the first to report the presence of a hemato-epithelial cancer compartment, which contributes to stem cell markers and CXCR4 in epithelial carcinoma. This finding has repercussions on CXCR4-based therapeutics and opens new avenues in discovering novel molecular targets against fusion and metastasis. Cancer Res; 73(17); 5360–70. ©2013 AACR.
Construction of an Immunotoxin, D2C7-(scdsFv)-PE38KDEL, Targeting EGFRwt and EGFRvIII for Brain Tumor Therapy
Authors: Chandramohan Vidyalakshmi , Bao Xuhui , Keir Stephen T. , Pegram Charles N. , Szafranski Scott E. , Piao Hailan , Wikstrand Carol J. , McLendon Roger E. , Kuan Chien-Tsun , Pastan Ira H. , Bigner Darell D.
Published: July 2013

Purpose: The EGF receptor gene (EGFR) is most frequently amplified and overexpressed, along with its deletion mutant, EGFRvIII, in glioblastoma. We tested the preclinical efficacy of the recombinant immunotoxin, D2C7-(scdsFv)-PE38KDEL, which is reactive with a 55-amino acid (AA) region present in the extracellular domain of both EGFRwt (583-637 AAs) and EGFRvIII (292-346 AAs) proteins.

Experimental Design: The binding affinity and specificity of D2C7-(scdsFv)-PE38KDEL for EGFRwt and EGFRvIII were measured by surface-plasmon resonance and flow cytometry. In vitro cytotoxicity of D2C7-(scdsFv)-PE38KDEL was measured by inhibition of protein synthesis in human EGFRwt-transfected NR6 (NR6W), human EGFRvIII-transfected NR6 (NR6M), EGFRwt-overexpressing A431-epidermoid-carcinoma, and glioblastoma xenograft cells (43, D08-0493MG, D2159MG, and D270MG). In vivo antitumor efficacy of D2C7-(scdsFv)-PE38KDEL was evaluated using 43, NR6M, and D270MG orthotopic tumor models.

Results: The KD of D2C7-(scdsFv)-PE38KDEL for EGFRwt and EGFRvIII was 1.6 × 10−9 mol/L and 1.3 × 10−9 mol/L, respectively. Flow cytometry with NR6W and NR6M cells confirmed the specificity of D2C7-(scdsFv)-PE38KDEL for EGFRwt and EGFRvIII. The D2C7-(scdsFv)-PE38KDEL IC50 was 0.18 to 2.5 ng/mL on cells expressing EGFRwt (NR6W, A431, 43, and D08-0493MG). The D2C7-(scdsFv)-PE38KDEL IC50 was approximately 0.25 ng/mL on EGFRvIII-expressing cells (NR6M) and on EGFRwt- and EGFRvIII-expressing glioblastoma xenograft cells (D2159MG and D270MG). Significantly, in intracranial tumor models of 43, NR6M, and D270MG, treatment with D2C7-(scdsFv)-PE38KDEL by convection-enhanced delivery prolonged survival by 310% (P = 0.006), 28% (P = 0.002), and 166% (P = 0.001), respectively.

Conclusions: In preclinical studies, the D2C7-(scdsFv)-PE38KDEL immunotoxin exhibited significant potential for treating brain tumors expressing EGFRwt, EGFRvIII, or both. Clin Cancer Res; 19(17); 4717–27. ©2013 AACR.
NF1 Deletion Generates Multiple Subtypes of Soft-Tissue Sarcoma That Respond to MEK Inhibition
Authors: Dodd Rebecca D. , Mito Jeffrey K. , Eward William C. , Chitalia Rhea , Sachdeva Mohit , Ma Yan , Barretina Jordi , Dodd Leslie , Kirsch David G.
Published: July 2013

Soft-tissue sarcomas are a heterogeneous group of tumors arising from connective tissue. Recently, mutations in the neurofibromin 1 (NF1) tumor suppressor gene were identified in multiple subtypes of human soft-tissue sarcomas. To study the effect of NF1 inactivation in the initiation and progression of distinct sarcoma subtypes, we have developed a novel mouse model of temporally and spatially restricted NF1-deleted sarcoma. To generate primary sarcomas, we inject adenovirus containing Cre recombinase into NF1flox/flox; Ink4a/Arfflox/flox mice at two distinct orthotopic sites: intramuscularly or in the sciatic nerve. The mice develop either high-grade myogenic sarcomas or malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST)-like tumors, respectively. These tumors reflect the histologic properties and spectrum of sarcomas found in patients. To explore the use of this model for preclinical studies, we conducted a study of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway inhibition with the MEK inhibitor PD325901. Treatment with PD325901 delays tumor growth through decreased cyclin D1 mRNA and cell proliferation. We also examined the effects of MEK inhibition on the native tumor stroma and find that PD325901 decreases VEGFα expression in tumor cells with a corresponding decrease in microvessel density. Taken together, our results use a primary tumor model to show that sarcomas can be generated by loss of NF1 and Ink4a/Arf, and that these tumors are sensitive to MEK inhibition by direct effects on tumor cells and the surrounding microenvironment. These studies suggest that MEK inhibitors should be further explored as potential sarcoma therapies in patients with tumors containing NF1 deletion. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(9); 1906–17. ©2013 AACR.
Intra-Arterial Chemotherapy Is Not Superior to Intravenous Chemotherapy for Malignant Gliomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Weifeng , Wu Qianlan , Mo Ligen , Nassi Manfred
Published: July 2013

The efficacy and safety of intra-arterial (IA) chemotherapy versus intravenous (IV) chemotherapy for malignant gliomas were studied. We searched eight electronic databases to identify relevant randomized controlled trials that compared IA chemotherapy with IV chemotherapy in patients with malignant gliomas. This study was conducted in compliance with the Quality of Reporting of Meta-analysis (QUORUM) guidelines. The quality of data was assessed using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Four eligible randomized controlled trials including 460 patients were retrieved. Comparing IA chemotherapy and IV chemotherapy for malignant gliomas, disease control rate, efficacy rate, 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year overall survival as well as grade 3/4 leukocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia were not statistically different. In conclusion, IA chemotherapy is not superior to IV chemotherapy in terms of efficacy and overall survival as a treatment for malignant gliomas.
Chronic Hepatitis E Infection: Risks and Controls
Authors: Parvez Mohammad Khalid
Published: July 2013

Very recently, an unusual clinical presentation with an altered natural history associated with hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection has emerged in high-income industrialized nations. Although HEV infection does not develop into chronicity in general, viremia can persist for long periods of time in immunocompromised solid organ, bone marrow and stem cell transplant patients. Conceivably, the atypical clinical and virological outcomes in these cases could be related to immunosuppressive chemotherapy, resulting in suboptimal HEV-specific immune responses. In the absence of travel to endemic regions, foodborne autochthonous HEV infection due to viral genotypes 3 and 4 has been implicated in the chronic cases. Presently, pegIFN-α-2a and ribavirin, the commonly used drugs to treat chronic viral hepatitis, are proving very promising in hepatitis E patients. Nevertheless, the most-awaited HEV vaccine could be protective in naïve travelers or high-risk group populations. The mechanisms of establishing chronic HEV infection and the disease severity have hitherto not been clearly understood. Therefore, a comprehensive clinical, virological and molecular study is needed to understand and control the disease.
Surfactant Protein D, Soluble Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 and High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein as Biomarkers of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: El-Deek Sahar E. , Makhlouf Hoda A. , Saleem Tahia H. , Mandour Manal A. , Mohamed Nahed A.
Published: July 2013

Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate the serum levels of surfactant protein D (SP-D), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and to assess the correlation of these indices with COPD severity. Subjects and Methods: This analytic cross-sectional study was carried out on 64 COPD male patients, and 26 apparently healthy age-matched males as a control. Chest X-ray, spirometry and arterial blood gases were done for only COPD patients. Serum levels of SP-D, sICAM-1 and hs-CRP were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in both patient and control groups. Results: The serum levels of SP-D, sICAM-1 and hs-CRP were significantly higher in COPD patients than controls (p < 0.001 for each). Also, these biomarkers were significantly higher in stages III and IV compared to either stage I or II (p < 0.01 for each). SP-D was significantly positively correlated with sICAM-1 and hs-CRP (r = 515, p < 0.001; r = 501, p < 0.001, respectively) and negatively correlated with PaO2 (r = -0.651, p < 0.001) and all parameters of spirometry.Conclusion: SP-D, sICAM and hs-CRP were significantly higher in COPD patients in comparison with controls. Moreover, SP-D, sICAM-1, and hs-CRP were significantly negatively correlated with FEV1%. Accordingly, estimation of these biochemical indices may be used as biomarkers for assessment of COPD severity.
HDAC Inhibition Suppresses Cardiac Hypertrophy and Fibrosis in DOCA-Salt Hypertensive Rats via Regulation of HDAC6/HDAC8 Enzyme Activity
Authors: Kee Hae Jin , Bae Eun Hui , Park Sangha , Lee Ko Eun , Suh Sang Heon , Kim Soo Wan , Jeong Myung Ho
Published: July 2013

Background: Inhibition of histone deacetylase (HDAC) was reported to suppress cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in various hypertrophic animal models. However, the HDAC expression profile and HDAC enzyme activity have not yet been investigated in DOCA-salt hypertensive rats. Methods: Unilaterally nephrectomized rats were implanted with DOCA strips. DOCA-salt rats then received a control diet with vehicle or valproate. We measured the expression of cardiac hypertrophic markers, class I HDACs, class II HDACs, fibrosis, and HDAC enzyme activity. Results: Here we report that sodium valproate inhibits the cardiac hypertrophy accompanied by fibrosis in the heart of chronic hypertensive rats. We show that expression of GATA6 and HDAC6 is upregulated in DOCA-salt hypertension. In addition, HDAC6 and HDAC8 enzyme activity is attenuated by sodium valproate. Conclusion: These results suggest that a novel HDAC6- and HDAC8-selective inhibitor is needed to treat or prevent pathological cardiac hypertrophy.
Plasmapheresis as an Alternative to High-Dose Intravenous Immunoglobulin in the Prevention of Gestational Alloimmune Liver Disease
Authors: Hutchings Graham , Williams Olivia , Sokal Etienne , Wittington Peter F.
Published: July 2013

Gestational alloimmune liver disease occurs due to trans-placental passage of maternal antibodies to a fetal hepatocyte antigen that produces complement-mediated hepatocyte injury. High-dose intravenous immunoglobulin therapy during gestation is highly effective at decreasing the risk to the neonate but treatment is expensive. This case presents for the first time the use of plasmapheresis as a potential cheaper alternative when treatment with immunoglobulins is unavailable.
Serum microRNA-21 and microRNA-221 as Potential Biomarkers for Cerebrovascular Disease
Authors: Tsai Pei-Chien , Liao Yi-Chu , Wang Yung-Song , Lin Hsiu-Fen , Lin Ruey-Tay , Juo Suh-Hang Hank
Published: July 2013

Background/Aims: MicroRNA miR-21, miR-221 and miR-145 have been implicated in the cardiovascular system. We aimed to compare the serum levels of the three microRNAs (miRNAs) in different severities of cerebrovascular diseases and evaluate the feasibility of using these miRNAs as biomarkers for stroke. Methods: We enrolled 167 subjects with ischemic stroke, 66 atherosclerosis subjects with any carotid plaque score and 157 healthy controls. These three types of subjects represent three levels of severity in cerebrovascular diseases. Analysis of covariance was used to evaluate the relationship between miRNAs and disease severity with adjustment for conventional risk factors. To test the prediction for stroke, we built regression models containing the serum miRNA levels and risk factors. Prediction capabilities were compared by the receiver operating characteristic curves. Results: Stroke patients and atherosclerosis subjects had significantly higher miR-21 and lower miR-221 serum levels than healthy controls, while the miR-145 expression was too low to provide useful information in this regard. The best model showed that miR-21 and miR-221 were independent predictors. There was a 6.2-fold increase for stroke risk when miR-21 levels increase by log102-ΔCt = 1, while a 10.4-fold increase was observed as miR-221 decreases by log102-ΔCt = 1. Conclusions: Serum miR-145 was not detected in over 50% of the patients and it may not be an ideal marker to predict stroke. MiR-21 and miR-221 are novel biomarkers for atherosclerosis and stroke.
Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis: Review of a Rare and Treatable Disease of the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Mori Amit , Enweluzo Chijioke , Grier David , Badireddy Madhu
Published: July 2013

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is a rare disease of the gastrointestinal tract characterized by crampy abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gastrointestinal bleeding, and weight loss associated with peripheral eosinophilia leading to eosinophilic infiltrates in stomach and intestine, usually in a patient with a prior history of atopy. In this article, we describe our encounter with a 59-year-old female presenting with severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss with an extensive evaluation including an upper endoscopy with biopsies resulting in a diagnosis of eosinophilic gastroenteritis. The patient was eventually treated with oral prednisone for three weeks with complete resolution of her symptoms.
Development of Risk Taking: Contributions from Adolescent Testosterone and the Orbito-frontal Cortex
Authors: Peper Jiska S. , Koolschijn P. Cédric M. P. , Crone Eveline A.
Published: July 2013

The role of puberty in the development of risk taking remains poorly understood. Here, in a normative sample of 268 participants between 8 and 25 years old, we applied a psycho-endocrine neuroimaging approach to investigate the contribution of testosterone levels and OFC morphology to individual differences in risk taking. Risk taking was measured with the balloon analogue risk-taking task. We found that, corrected for age, higher endogenous testosterone level was related to increased risk taking in boys (more explosions) and girls (more money earned). In addition, a smaller medial OFC volume in boys and larger OFC surface area in girls related to more risk taking. A mediation analysis indicated that OFC morphology partly mediates the association between testosterone level and risk taking, independent of age. Mediation was found in such a way that a smaller medial OFC in boys potentiates the association between testosterone and risk taking but suppresses the association in girls. This study provides insights into endocrinological and neural underpinnings of normative development of risk taking, by indicating that OFC morphology, at least partly, mediates the association between testosterone and risk-taking behavior.
What Evidence Supports Special Processing for Faces? A Cautionary Tale for fMRI Interpretation
Authors: Cowell Rosemary A. , Cottrell Garrison W.
Published: July 2013

We trained a neurocomputational model on six categories of photographic images that were used in a previous fMRI study of object and face processing. Multivariate pattern analyses of the activations elicited in the object-encoding layer of the model yielded results consistent with two previous, contradictory fMRI studies. Findings from one of the studies [Haxby, J. V., Gobbini, M. I., Furey, M. L., Ishai, A., Schouten, J. L., & Pietrini, P. Distributed and overlapping representations of faces and objects in ventral temporal cortex. Science, 293, 2425–2430, 2001] were interpreted as evidence for the object-form topography model. Findings from the other study [Spiridon, M., & Kanwisher, N. How distributed is visual category information in human occipito-temporal cortex? An fMRI study. Neuron, 35, 1157–1165, 2002] were interpreted as evidence for neural processing mechanisms in the fusiform face area that are specialized for faces. Because the model contains no special processing mechanism or specialized architecture for faces and yet it can reproduce the fMRI findings used to support the claim that there are specialized face-processing neurons, we argue that these fMRI results do not actually support that claim. Results from our neurocomputational model therefore constitute a cautionary tale for the interpretation of fMRI data.
Ten new Gammarus species (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Gammaridae) from Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, China
Authors: HOU ZHONGE , LI JUNBO , LI SHUQIANG
Published: July 2013

Ten new species of the genus Gammarus are described from Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, Southwest China, including Gam­marus amabilis sp. nov., G. citatus sp. nov., G. echinatus sp. nov., G. egregius sp. nov., G. eliquatus sp. nov., G. hirtellussp. nov., G. margcomosus sp. nov., G. rivalis sp. nov., G. silendus sp. nov. and G. tranquillus sp. nov. Four of them are stygobite and with no eyes. Detailed illustrations and comparisons with related species are presented. A key to all species from Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau are given.
Lagrangian Detection of Wind Shear for Landing Aircraft
Authors: Kafiabad Hossein Amini , Chan Pak Wai , Haller George
Published: July 2013

Recent studies have shown that aerial disturbances affecting landing aircraft have a coherent signature in the Lagrangian aerial particle dynamics inferred from ground-based lidar scans. Specifically, attracting Lagrangian coherent structures (LCSs) mark the intersection of localized material upwelling within the cone of the lidar scan. This study tests the detection power of LCSs on historical landing data and corresponding pilot reports of disturbances from Hong Kong International Airport. The results show that a specific LCS indicator, the gradient of the finite-time Lyapunov exponent (FTLE) field along the landing path, is a highly efficient marker of turbulent upwellings. In particular, in the spring season, projected FTLE gradients closely approach the efficiency of the wind shear alert system currently in operation at the airport, even though the latter system relies on multiple sources of data beyond those used in this study. This shows significant potential for the operational use of FTLE gradients in the real-time detection of aerial disturbances over airports.
Four Current Meter Models Compared in Strong Currents in Drake Passage
Authors: Watts D. Randolph , Kennelly Maureen A. , Donohue Kathleen A. , Tracey Karen L. , Chereskin Teresa K. , Weller Robert A. , Victoria Ivan
Published: July 2013

Seven current meters representing four models on a stiffly buoyed mooring were placed for an 11-month deployment to intercompare their velocity measurements: two vector-measuring current meters (VMCMs), two Aanderaa recording current meter (RCM) 11s, two Aanderaa SEAGUARDs, and a Nortek Aquadopp. The current meters were placed 6-m apart from each other at about 4000-m depth in an area of Drake Passage expected to have strong currents, nearly independent of depth near the bottom. Two high-current events occurred in bursts of semidiurnal pulses lasting several days, one with peak speeds up to 67 cm s−1 and the other above 35 cm s−1. The current-speed measurements all agreed within 7% of the median value when vector averaged over simultaneous time intervals. The VMCMs, chosen as the reference measurements, were found to measure the median of the mean-current magnitudes. The RCM11 and SEAGUARD current speeds agreed within 2% of the median at higher speeds (35–67 cm s−1), whereas in lower speed ranges (0–35 cm s−1) the vector-averaged speeds for the RCM11 and SEAGUARD were 4%–5% lower and 3%–5% higher than the median, respectively. The shorter-record Aquadopp current speeds were about 6% higher than the VMCMs over the range (0–40 cm s−1) encountered.
Airborne Measurements of Coastal Jet Transition around Point Conception, California
Authors: Rahn David A. , Parish Thomas R. , Leon David
Published: July 2013

Low-level winds along the Californian coast during spring and early summer are typically strong and contained within the cool, well-mixed marine boundary layer (MBL). A temperature inversion separates the MBL from the warmer free troposphere. This setup is often represented by a two-layer shallow-water system with a lateral boundary. Near a prominent point such as Point Conception, California, the fast-moving MBL flow is supercritical and can exhibit distinct features including a compression bulge and an expansion fan. Measurements from the University of Wyoming King Air research aircraft on 19 May 2012 during the Precision Atmospheric MBL Experiment (PreAMBLE) captured wind in excess of 14 m s−1 off of Point Conception under clear skies and wind ~2 m s−1 east of San Miguel in the California Bight. A compression bulge was identified upwind of Point Conception. When the flow rounds the point, the MBL undergoes a near collapse and there is a spike in MBL height embedded in the general decrease of MBL height with greater turbulence just downwind that is associated with greater mixing through the inversion layer. Lidar and in situ measurements reveal that transport of continental aerosol is present near the pronounced MBL height change and that there is a complex vertical structure within the Santa Barbara Channel. Horizontal pressure gradients are obtained by measuring the slope of an isobaric surface. Observations of wind and pressure perturbations are able to be linked through a simple Bernoulli relationship. Variation of MBL depth explains most, but not all of the variation of the isobaric surface.
Immunological detection of large oxidized lipoproteins in hypertriglyceridemic serum
Authors: Sakurai Toshihiro , Wada Norio , Takahashi Yuji , Ichikawa Ayako , Ikuta Akiko , Furumaki Hiroaki , Hui Shu-Ping , Jin Shigeki , Takeda Seiji , Fuda Hirotoshi , Fujikawa Masato , Shimizu Chikara , Nagasaka Hironori , Furukawa Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Seiichi , Chiba Hitoshi
Published: July 2013

Background

Triglyceride-rich, low-density lipoproteins (TG-rich LDL) have been reported as an oxidized lipoprotein species in patients with severe liver disease. Using TG-rich LDL as an immunogen, we obtained a monoclonal antibody (G11-6) that reacted with TG-rich LDL from patients with liver disease and with metal-oxidized LDL only in the early process of the oxidation reaction. This study determined the G11-6-reactive lipoproteins in hypertriglyceridemic serum.

Methods

Serum samples from healthy volunteers ( n = 12) and hypertriglyceridemic patients ( n = 9) were fractionated by gel filtration and subjected to a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using G11-6 and polyclonal anti-apolipoprotein B antibodies.

Results

Small LDL and larger lipoproteins reacted with G11-6. G11-6-reactive small LDL was identified in both the healthy subjects and hypertriglyceridemic patients, whereas G11-6-reactive larger lipoproteins were found only in the hypertriglyceridemic patients.

Conclusions

G11-6 is a useful tool for detecting increased large oxidized lipoproteins in hypertriglyceridemic patients.
Developing Socially Just Teachers
Authors: Whipp Joan L.
Published: July 2013

This interpretive study investigated how 12 graduates from a justice-oriented teacher preparation program described their teaching goals, practices, and influences on those practices after their 1st year of teaching in an urban school. Relationships among these teachers’ orientations toward socially just teaching, self-reported socially just teaching practices, and self-reported preprogram, program, and postprogram influences were explored. Teachers who were individually and structurally oriented exhibited a sociocultural consciousness and described socially just teaching in various combinations of culturally responsive pedagogies, consciousness-raising, and advocacy; whereas individually oriented teachers focused primarily on “color-blind” caring relationships with their students. Factors that seemed to influence a more structural orientation to socially just teaching included (a) cross-cultural experiences before and during teacher preparation, (b) program course content and field experiences that challenged previous thinking, and (c) administrative and collegial support during the 1st year of teaching. Implications for teacher education practice and research are discussed.
Morphology and tensile properties of bast fibers extracted from cotton stalks
Authors: Yzombard Alban , Gordon Stuart G , Miao Menghe
Published: July 2013

Bast fiber contained in cotton stalk, a residue from the growth of cotton fiber, is available in very large quantities, estimated at more than 15 million tonnes annually. The stalk is currently burnt or buried into soil. In this study, bast fibers were extracted from cotton stalk using a mechanical decortication method. The morphology of single bast fibers, also known as ultimates or ultimate fibers, were characterized by an effective diameter and a cell wall thickening factor (maturity) derived from a concentric circle model reconstructed using an image analysis technique. Fiber cells within the same plant are quite consistent in diameter but can vary considerably in maturity depending on their position in the plant. Eighty percent of the bast fibers were contained in the lower half of the stalk where the fiber maturity was high. Cotton bast fibers are as strong as other bast fibers, such as jute and hemp, and can be used as reinforcement for polymer composite materials.
Design of the nozzle of a yarn suction gun for fully drawn yarn
Authors: Li Yonggui , Wei Man , Zhang Lingfang , Chen Dongsheng
Published: July 2013

The yarn suction gun is a kind of fluid machinery using compressed air as power. Airflow geometry in the gun has a significant influence on the airflow distribution, which decides the yarn suction performance. To clarify the effect of the nozzle structure on the yarn suction performance, we designed 16 nozzles, determined yarn suction force F, mass flow rate of compressed air G and analyzed yarn suction efficiency η, which is defined as the ratio of F to G. The rational geometrical parameters are obtained as follows: the number of jet orifices N = 3, jet orifice diameter d = 1.6 mm, jet orifice angle Φ = 75° and passage diverging angle of the nozzle θ = 60°. A smaller N reduces the conflict between jet streams and then increases η. Decreasing d contributes to greater η but smaller F. In the range of Φ ≤ 75, increasing Φ causes both F and η to increase. An appropriate θ promotes the yarn suction performance by helping the injected air to go forward smoothly and reducing backflow. It is more rational to use η to evaluate the yarn suction performance.
The Hybrid Spatialities of Transition: Capitalism, Legacy and Uneven Urban Economic Restructuring
Authors: Golubchikov Oleg , Badyina Anna , Makhrova Alla
Published: July 2013

This paper conceptualises post-socialist urban economic geographies through the notion of hybrid spatialities that emerge from the mutual embeddedness of neoliberalism and socialist legacies. While the dismantling of state socialism was a massive moment towards the exacerbation of uneven development, ironically it is the socialist-era spatial legacy that has become the single major differentiating factor for the economic status of cities. This superficial overdetermination, however, masks the root causes of uneven development that must be seen in the logic of capitalism and its attendant practices which subsume legacy, recode its meaning, and recast the formerly equalitarian spaces as an uneven spatial order. The authors argue that the socialist legacy, rather than being an independent carrier of history, has been alienated from its history to become an infrastructure of neoliberalisation, conducive to capitalist process. The paper draws specifically on the experiences of Russia, although its reflections should reverberate much more broadly.
“Somebody Who Was on My Side”
Authors: Spencer Renée , Tugenberg Toni , Ocean Mia , Schwartz Sarah E. O. , Rhodes Jean E.
Published: July 2013

Youth initiated mentoring (YIM) is an innovative approach to mentoring being implemented by the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program in which youth identify and select their mentors. There is great interest in this approach; however, there has been little study of YIM or its implementation in ChalleNGe. Retrospective in-depth qualitative interviews with former ChalleNGe participants ( n = 30) were conducted to gain a descriptive understanding of the mentor selection process, the role these relationships played in participants’ experiences of the ChalleNGe program and in their lives more generally, and the nature and strength of these connections. Findings indicate that youth were able to successfully enlist the participation of mentors and YIM yielded enduring and emotionally supportive relationships. That the adults came from within their communities was viewed by these participants as having expedited the development of feelings of trust and contributed to the relevancy and meaningfulness of the guidance and advice offered.
Dynamic Nature of Destination Image and Influence of Tourist Overall Satisfaction on Image Modification
Authors: Lee BongKoo , Lee Choong-Ki , Lee Jaeseok
Published: July 2013

The objective of this study is to examine the dynamic nature of tourist destination image and the influence of tourists’ overall satisfaction on image modification. The empirical data were collected in Seoul, a major tourism destination in South Korea. A total of 520 usable survey data were analyzed using paired t-test and analysis of variance. The results supported the proposed research hypotheses: (1) there were statistically significant differences with respect to all image dimensions between their pretrip and posttrip images at the α = .01 level, and (2) tourists’ satisfaction was statistically related to the extent of destination image modification. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed based on the study findings, and recommendations for future research were presented.
The Effects of Exposure to Violence on Inmate Maladjustment
Authors: Meade Benjamin , Steiner Benjamin
Published: July 2013

Offenders are exposed to violence at higher rates than the general population. Yet little is known about whether exposure to violence affects offenders’ adjustment to incarceration. Using a nationally representative sample of inmates housed in secure confinement facilities, we examine the relative effects of exposure to different types of violence prior to incarceration (e.g., physical assault, sexual assault, child abuse) on inmate maladjustment. Results indicate that exposure to violence prior to incarceration influences individuals’ odds of maladjustment during imprisonment, and that abuse as a child and physical victimization by a nonstranger as an adult are particularly robust predictors of maladjustment. Implications of these findings for future research and correctional practice are discussed.
Why Entrepreneurs Often Experience Low, Not High, Levels of Stress
Authors: Baron Robert A. , Franklin Rebecca J. , Hmieleski Keith M.
Published: July 2013

While creating and running new ventures, entrepreneurs are exposed to conditions known to generate high levels of stress (e.g., rapid change, unpredictable environments, work overload, personal responsibility for others). Thus, it has been assumed that they often experience intense stress. A markedly different possibility, however, is suggested by Attraction-Selection-Attrition (ASA) theory. This perspective suggests that persons who are attracted by, selected into, and persist in entrepreneurship may be relatively high in the capacity to tolerate or effectively manage stress. In contrast, persons who are relatively low in this capacity tend to exit from entrepreneurship either voluntarily or involuntarily. As a result, founding entrepreneurs as a group are predicted to experience low rather than high levels of stress while running new ventures. Results supported this reasoning: Founding entrepreneurs reported lower levels of stress when compared to participants in a large national survey of perceived stress. Additional findings indicate that entrepreneurs’ relatively low levels of stress derive, at least in part, from high levels of psychological capital (a combination of self-efficacy, optimism, hope, and resilience). Psychological capital was negatively related to stress, and stress, in turn, was negatively related to entrepreneurs’ subjective well-being. Furthermore, and also consistent with ASA theory, the stress-reducing effects of psychological capital were stronger for older than younger entrepreneurs.
Are Founder Directors Detrimental to New Ventures at Initial Public Offering?
Authors: Wang Tang , Song Michael
Published: July 2013

New ventures often form a formal board of directors for the first time at the initial public offering (IPO). The tumult of external changes places a premium on rapid decision making within a resource-constrained venture. According to the social psychological theory, group consensus and decision alternatives serve as two key drivers for making rapid decisions. Therefore, based on signaling theory, the valuation from investors at the IPO depends on the observable signals that can imply the group consensus and decision alternatives in a board. We argue and test the hypothesis that, when group consensus and decision alternative signals are jointly considered, the relationship between the ratio of founders on the board and the IPO price premium will have an inversed U shape. In addition, we analyze how three contextual factors (original chief executive officer [CEO], founders’ ownership, and venture capitalist [VC] on the board) can influence their signal consistency with founder directors on group consensus and decision alternatives, which ultimately changes the pattern of the inverted U shape. Based on a unique sample of 274 Chinese new venture IPOs over the period from 2004 to 2009, our results show that if the firm is managed by a nonoriginal CEO, the relationship between the founder–board ratio and the IPO price premium is an inverse U shape. Furthermore, if a VC sits on the board, the presence of founder directors has a linear positive effect on IPO premium; otherwise, the inverse U-shaped relationship still holds.
Chronic venous disease: Correlation between ultrasound findings and the clinical, etiologic, anatomic and pathophysiologic classification
Authors: Matić Predrag A , Vlajinac Hristina D , Marinković Jelena M , Maksimović Miloš Ž , Radak Đorđe J
Published: July 2013

Objective

The aim of the study was to investigate association between clinical manifestation of chronic venous disease and the presence and severity of functional venous disease.

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 14 towns in Serbia. All men and women aged >18 years, consecutively coming to venous specialists (47 specialists) were included in the study. Patients who were previously treated for chronic venous disease were excluded. Patients were classified according to the clinical category of clinical, etiologic, anatomic and pathophysiologic classification for chronic venous disease. Reflux and/or obstruction were determined by using a color duplex ultrasound.

Results

The study included 1679 chronic venous disease patients. Color duplex ultrasound was performed in 1029 (61.3%) of them who formed the final study group. Reflux was found in 76.8% of patients – 53.1% had reflux in superficial, 7.2% in deep and 16.1% in perforator veins. Obstruction was found in 31.9% of patients – superficial in 14.8% of patients and deep in 16.9%. Deep obstruction was even found in clinical, etiologic, anatomic and pathophysiologic C0s-C1 categories. Reflux and obstruction combined were revealed in 19.1% of patients. Reflux in deep and perforator veins and reflux and obstruction combined were significantly associated with clinical, etiologic, anatomic and pathophysiologic clinical categories being the most frequent in patients with venous ulcers.

Conclusion

Clinical, etiologic, anatomic and pathophysiologic clinical categories of chronic venous disease are strongly correlated with functional disease especially with reflux in deep and perforator veins, and reflux and obstruction combined. The presence of deep obstruction in patients with chronic venous disease belonging to clinical, etiologic, anatomic and pathophysiologic C0s-C1 category could justify recommendation for color duplex ultrasonography in all patients with symptoms of chronic venous disease but without clear clinical signs.
Intrathecal baclofen in multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury: complications and long-term dosage evolution
Authors: Draulans Nathalie , Vermeersch Kristof , Degraeuwe Bart , Meurrens Tom , Peers Koen , Nuttin Bart , Kiekens Carlotte
Published: July 2013

Objective:

To investigate the long-term dosage evolution and complication rate of intrathecal baclofen use in multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury patients, based on a large population with a long follow-up.

Design:

Retrospective data analysis

Setting:

Academic hospital

Subjects:

Patients with multiple sclerosis ( n = 81) or spinal cord injury ( n = 49) having an intrathecal baclofen pump implanted at the University Hospitals Leuven between 1988 and 2009.

Intervention:

Medical records review of included patients in August 2010.

Main measures:

Complications linked to intrathecal baclofen therapy. Daily baclofen dosage after 3 and 6 months, and yearly thereafter. Data on dosage evolution were analysed using a mixed-effect linear model.

Results:

In 130 patients with a mean follow-up of 63 months, comprising 797 pump years, 104 complications were recorded. This corresponds to a complication rate of 0.011 per month, equally divided among both groups. Seventy-eight of these complications were catheter related. The mean dosage of baclofen stabilizes two years after implantation at 323 µg/day in the multiple sclerosis population. In spinal cord injury patients the daily dose only stabilizes after five years at a significantly higher dosage (504 µg/day). No significant increase in dosage is seen in the long term.

Conclusions:

In multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury patients, intrathecal baclofen therapy has a complication rate of 1% per month. Complications are mainly due to catheter-related problems (74%). The intrathecal baclofen dosage stabilizes in the long term, indicating that long-term tolerance, defined as progressive diminution of the susceptibility to the effects of a drug, is not present.