bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Piston Pressure Carryover for Dynamic Analysis and Designs of the Axial Piston Pump
Authors: Wang Shu
Published: December 2012

The timing definition of valve plates is one of the most complex topics in the piston pump designs because it affects many pump characteristics (such as efficiency, swashplate stroking, stabilities, noise, etc.). In the study, the pressure carryover is introduced and defined as the average angular positions to locate piston pressure transitions from the top dead center (TDC) or bottom dead center (BDC) in the piston pump. Pressure carryover presents the overall outcome of the pressure transitions within piston bores. The new pressure carryover definition is derived by the timing angles and other geometrics of valve plates that is an approximation of the practical pressure transitions. The pressure carryover also determines the containment forces and moments on the swashplate produced by the pumping pistons. The relationship between the pressure carryover angle and the containment moment has been developed and analyzed in the study. The amplitudes and frequencies of the forces and moments can be changed by varying the pressure carryover angle that produce different tonalities and control efforts for the swashplate type axial-piston pumps. Therefore, the pressure carryover is the most important and straightforward connection between pump dynamics and valve plate designs. In order to optimize the pump performance, the piston pressure carryover might be investigated thoroughly for the pump and its controller designs.
Imbedded Dual-Number Automatic Differentiation for Computational Fluid Dynamics Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Spall Robert E. , Yu Wenbin
Published: December 2012

Dual number automatic differentiation was applied to two computational fluid dynamics codes, one written specifically for this purpose and one “legacy” fortran code. Results for the simple case of a fully developed laminar flow in a channel validated the approach in computing derivatives with respect to both a fluid property and a geometric dimension. DNAD was also implemented into the JET fortran program which is available with a popular turbulence modeling textbook. Mean centerline velocity derivatives for a self-similar round jet with respect to all applicable turbulence model closure coefficients for k-ω and k-ε models were obtained.
Characterization of carbon nanotube field emitters in pulsed operation mode
Authors: Leberl Daniela , Ummethala Raghunandan , Leonhardt Albrecht , Hensel Bernhard , Tedde Sandro F. , Schmidt Oliver , Hayden Oliver
Published: December 2012

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are promising candidates as electron sources for novel x-ray tubes. Short pulses, high emission currents, and long-term stability are prerequisites for practical applications in medical x-ray imaging. Here, the authors present field emission from CNTs in pulsed operation mode exhibiting very high stability for 200 cumulative hours and a maximum current of 126 mA corresponding to 202 mA/cm2 at an applied field of 9.3 V/μm. They investigated the correlation of classical emitter characteristics such as threshold field and field enhancement factor to the long-term stability and maximum emission current. This correlation was found to be rather poor. Instead, they observed a steady voltage increase for a fixed current during lifetime experiments. This observation allowed to derive a degradation parameter which determines the emitter quality for pulsed applications. Detailed investigations of the degradation in dependency of pressure, duty cycle, and pulse-on time were performed to predict the stability and lifetime of CNT-based field emitters.
Cellular Pharmacology and Potency of HIV-1 Nucleoside Analogs in Primary Human Macrophages
Authors: Gavegnano Christina , Detorio Mervi A. , Bassit Leda , Hurwitz Selwyn J. , North Thomas W. , Schinazi Raymond F.
Published: December 2012

Understanding the cellular pharmacology of antiretroviral agents in macrophages and subsequent correlation with antiviral potency provides a sentinel foundation for definition of the dynamics between antiretroviral agents and viral reservoirs across multiple cell types, with the goal of eradication of HIV-1 from these cells. Various clinically relevant nucleoside antiviral agents, and the integrase inhibitor raltegravir, were selected for this study. The intracellular concentrations of the active metabolites of the nucleoside analogs were found to be 5- to 140-fold lower in macrophages than in lymphocytes, and their antiviral potency was significantly lower in macrophages constitutively activated with macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) during acute infection than in resting macrophages (EC
50
, 0.4 to 9.42 μM versus 0.03 to 0.4 μM, respectively). Although tenofovir-treated cells displayed significantly lower intracellular drug levels than cells treated with its prodrug, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, the levels of tenofovir-diphosphate for tenofovir-treated cells were similar in lymphocytes and macrophages. Raltegravir also displayed significantly lower intracellular concentrations in macrophages than in lymphocytes, independent of the activation state, but had similar potencies in resting and activated macrophages. These data underscore the importance of delivering adequate levels of drug to macrophages to reduce and eradicate HIV-1 infection.
Ecological Divergence of a Novel Group of Chloroflexus Strains along a Geothermal Gradient
Authors: Weltzer Michael L. , Miller Scott R.
Published: December 2012

Environmental gradients are expected to promote the diversification and coexistence of ecological specialists adapted to local conditions. Consistent with this view, genera of phototrophic microorganisms in alkaline geothermal systems generally appear to consist of anciently divergent populations which have specialized on different temperature habitats. At White Creek (Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park), however, a novel, 16S rRNA-defined lineage of the filamentous anoxygenic phototroph
Chloroflexus
(OTU 10, phylum
Chloroflexi
) occupies a much wider thermal niche than other 16S rRNA-defined groups of phototrophic bacteria. This suggests that
Chloroflexus
OTU 10 is either an ecological generalist or, alternatively, a group of cryptic thermal specialists which have recently diverged. To distinguish between these alternatives, we first isolated laboratory strains of
Chloroflexus
OTU 10 from along the White Creek temperature gradient. These strains are identical for partial gene sequences encoding the 16S rRNA and malonyl coenzyme A (CoA) reductase. However, strains isolated from upstream and downstream samples could be distinguished based on sequence variation at
pcs
, which encodes the propionyl-CoA synthase of the 3-hydroxypropionate pathway of carbon fixation used by the genus
Chloroflexus
. We next demonstrated that strains have diverged in temperature range for growth. Specifically, we obtained evidence for a positive correlation between thermal niche breadth and temperature optimum, with strains isolated from lower temperatures exhibiting greater thermal specialization than the most thermotolerant strain. The study has implications for our understanding of both the process of niche diversification of microorganisms and how diversity is organized in these hot spring communities.
Soft-X-Ray-Enhanced Electrostatic Precipitation for Protection against Inhalable Allergens, Ultrafine Particles, and Microbial Infections
Authors: Kettleson Eric M. , Schriewer Jill M. , Buller R. Mark L. , Biswas Pratim
Published: December 2012

Protection of the human lung from infectious agents, allergens, and ultrafine particles is difficult with current technologies. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters remove airborne particles of >0.3 μm with 99.97% efficiency, but they are expensive to maintain. Electrostatic precipitation has been used as an inexpensive approach to remove large particles from airflows, but it has a collection efficiency minimum in the submicrometer size range, allowing for a penetration window for some allergens and ultrafine particles. Incorporating soft X-ray irradiation as an
in situ
component of the electrostatic precipitation process greatly improves capture efficiency of ultrafine particles. Here we demonstrate the removal and inactivation capabilities of soft-X-ray-enhanced electrostatic precipitation technology targeting infectious agents (
Bacillus anthracis
,
Mycobacterium bovis
BCG, and poxviruses), allergens, and ultrafine particles. Incorporation of
in situ
soft X-ray irradiation at low-intensity corona conditions resulted in (i) 2-fold to 9-fold increase in capture efficiency of 200- to 600-nm particles and (ii) a considerable delay in the mean day of death as well as lower overall mortality rates in ectromelia virus (ECTV) cohorts. At the high-intensity corona conditions, nearly complete protection from viral and bacterial respiratory infection was afforded to the murine models for all biological agents tested. When optimized for combined efficient particle removal with limited ozone production, this technology could be incorporated into stand-alone indoor air cleaners or scaled for installation in aircraft cabin, office, and residential heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems.
Genotypic and Phenotypic Characterization of Staphylococcus aureus Isolates from Wild Boars
Authors: Meemken Diana , Blaha Thomas , Hotzel Helmut , Strommenger Birgit , Klein Guenter , Ehricht Ralf , Monecke Stefan , Kehrenberg Corinna
Published: December 2012

Eight
Staphylococcus aureus
isolates collected from 117 wild boars were characterized and compared to livestock isolates. They belonged to sequence types ST133, ST425, and the new type ST1643. The
spa
types were t1181, t6782, and the new types t6384, t6385, and t6386. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and microarray-based genotyping confirmed the absence of important virulence/resistance genes.
Phylogenetic Distribution of Potential Cellulases in Bacteria
Authors: Berlemont Renaud , Martiny Adam C.
Published: December 2012

Many microorganisms contain cellulases that are important for plant cell wall degradation and overall soil ecosystem functioning. At present, we have extensive biochemical knowledge of cellulases but little is known about the phylogenetic distribution of these enzymes. To address this, we analyzed the distribution of 21,985 genes encoding proteins related to cellulose utilization in 5,123 sequenced bacterial genomes. First, we identified the distribution of glycoside hydrolases involved in cellulose utilization and synthesis at different taxonomic levels, from the phylum to the strain. Cellulose degradation/utilization capabilities appeared in nearly all major groups and resulted in strains displaying various enzyme gene combinations. Potential cellulose degraders, having both cellulases and β-glucosidases, constituted 24% of all genomes whereas potential opportunistic strains, having β-glucosidases only, accounted for 56%. Finally, 20% of the bacteria have no relevant enzymes and do not rely on cellulose utilization. The latter group was primarily connected to specific bacterial lifestyles like autotrophy and parasitism. Cellulose degraders, as well as opportunists, have multiple enzymes with similar functions. However, the potential degraders systematically harbor about twice more β-glucosidases than their potential opportunistic relatives. Although scattered, the distribution of functional types, in bacterial lineages, is not random but mostly follows a Brownian motion evolution model. Degraders form clusters of relatives at the species level, whereas opportunists are clustered at the genus level. This information can form a mechanistic basis for the linking of changes in microbial community composition to soil ecosystem processes.
Evidence for Recycling of Invariant Surface Transmembrane Domain Proteins in African Trypanosomes
Authors: Koumandou V. Lila , Boehm Cordula , Horder Katy A. , Field Mark C.
Published: December 2012

Intracellular trafficking is a vital component of both virulence mechanisms and drug interactions in
Trypanosoma brucei
, the causative agent of human African trypanosomiasis and n'agana of cattle. Both maintaining the surface proteome composition within a life stage and remodeling the composition when progressing between life stages are important features of immune evasion and development for trypanosomes. Our recent work implicates the abundant transmembrane invariant surface glycoproteins (ISGs) in the uptake of first-line therapeutic suramin, suggesting a potential therapeutic route into the cell. RME-8 is a mediator of recycling pathways in higher eukaryotes and is one of a small cohort of intracellular transport gene products upregulated in mammal-infective trypanosomes, suggesting a role in controlling the copy number of surface proteins in trypanosomes. Here we investigate RME-8 function and its contribution to intracellular trafficking and stability of ISGs. RME-8 is a highly conserved protein and is broadly distributed across multiple endocytic compartments. By knockdown we find that RME-8 is essential and mediates delivery of endocytic probes to late endosomal compartments. Further, we find ISG accumulation within endosomes, but that RME-8 knockdown also increases ISG turnover; combined with previous data, this suggests that it is most probable that ISGs are recycled, and that RME-8 is required to support recycling.
Microbes without frontiers: severe haemolytic-uraemic syndrome due toE coliO104:H4
Authors: Binks Sophie , Regan Kate , Richenberg Jonathan , Chevassut Tim
Published: December 2012

Antibiotic use in infection with Shiga-toxin-producing strains ofEscherichia coli(E coli) is thought to increase the risk of developing haemolytic-uraemic syndrome (HUS). One paediatric study concluded thatE coliO157:H7-infected patients who had received antibiotic therapy were 17 times more likely to progress to HUS than those who had not. Quinolones are among those incriminated. In vitro experiments suggest toxin induction of 80-fold with ciprofloxacin andE coliO104:H4. We report here the case of a 44-year-old man returning from Hamburg who presented with a 5 day history of bloody diarrhoea which had worsened after starting ciprofloxacin. A severe illness of overlapping HUS and thrombotic thrombocytopaenic purpura (TTP) ensued, with neurological complications requiring ventilation and intensive care admission. Stool sample eventually confirmedE coliO104:H4. Although the patient made a good recovery following treatment with haemofiltration and plasma exchange with fresh frozen plasma (FFP), ciprofloxacin may have exacerbated his clinical course.
The ethics of unlinked anonymous testing of blood: views from in-depth interviews with key informants in four countries
Authors: Kessel Anthony S , Datta Jessica , Wellings Kaye , Perman Sarah
Published: December 2012

Objectives

In this study we explore the ethical issues around unlinked anonymous testing (UAT) of blood, a method of seroprevalence surveillance for infectious diseases. Our study focused on UAT for HIV, although UAT can be used for other infectious diseases. The objectives of the research were to gain a better understanding of the views of key informants in countries adopting different UAT testing strategies, and to use the findings of the research to inform health policy.

Design

Qualitative study using in-depth interviews and ethical analysis.

Setting

Four countries using different strategies around UAT of blood for HIV (the UK, the USA, the Netherlands and Norway).

Participants

Twenty-three key informants in the four countries.

Results

Participants from the four countries have different views on UAT of blood, and the approaches and policies on UAT adopted by different countries have been historically and culturally determined. We use our findings to explore the relationship between public health policy and ethics, framing our discussion in relation to two important contemporary debates: informed consent for participation in medical and public health research; and the balance between the individual good and the public good.

Conclusions

Qualitative research and ethical analysis of UAT of blood in different countries has yielded important findings for consideration by policy makers. The policy of UAT of blood for HIV and other diseases in the UK needs reconsideration in the light of these findings.
The effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions in smokers with cerebrovascular disease: a systematic review
Authors: Edjoc Rojiemiahd K , Reid Robert D , Sharma Mukul
Published: December 2012

Objective

The main objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions (SCIs) for increasing cessation rates in smokers with cerebrovascular disease.

Design

Systematic review. Two independent reviewers searched information sources and assessed studies for inclusion/exclusion criteria.

Eligibility criteria for included studies

Randomised control trials, conducted prior to the 22 May 2012 investigating SCIs in smokers with cerebrovascular disease, were included. No age or ethnicity limitations were applied in order to be as inclusive as possible.

Methods

We followed the PRISMA statement approach to identify relevant randomised control studies. Due to the variability of interventions used in the reported studies, a meta-analysis was not conducted.

Results

Of 852 identified articles, 4 articles fit the inclusion criteria describing the outcome in 354 patients. The overall cessation rate with an SCI was 23.9% (42 of 176) while without one was 20.8% (37 of 178).

Conclusions

There are a limited number of reported intervention studies that explore this area of secondary stroke prevention. Furthermore, of those intervention studies that were found, only two implemented evidence-based approaches to smoking cessation. A meta-analysis was not conducted because of the variability of interventions in the reported studies. Larger studies with homogeneous interventions are needed to determine how effective SCIs are in increasing cessation in smokers with established cerebrovascular disease.
The feasibility of civilian prehospital trauma teams carrying and administering packed red blood cells
Authors: Bodnar Daniel , Rashford Stephen , Williams Sue , Enraght-Moony Emma , Parker Lachlan , Clarke Benjamin
Published: December 2012

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility, limitations and costs involved in providing prehospital trauma teams with packed red blood cells (pRBCs) for use in the prehospital setting.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study, examining 18 months of historical data collated by the Queensland Ambulance Service Trauma Response Team (TRT) and the Pathology Queensland Central Transfusion Laboratory was undertaken.

Results

Over an 18-month period (1 January 2011–30 June 2012), of 500 pRBC units provided to the TRT, 130 (26%) were administered to patients in the prehospital environment. Of the non-transfused units, 97.8% were returned to a hospital blood bank and were available for reissue. No instances of equipment failure directly contributed to wastage of pRBCs. The cost of providing pRBCs for prehospital use was $A551 (£361) for each unit transfused.

Conclusions

It is feasible and practical to provide prehospital trauma teams with pRBCs for use in the field. Use of pRBCs in the prehospital setting is associated with similar rates of pRBC wastage to that reported in emergency departments.
An assessment of oxidant/antioxidant status in patients with snake envenomation
Authors: Zengin Suat , Al Behcet , Yarbil Pinar , Guzel Remzi , Orkmez Mustafa , Yildirim Cuma , Taysi Seyithan
Published: December 2012

Objective

The aim of this study is to investigate the antioxidant status (TAS), oxidant status (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) in patients with snake envenomation and to learn more about the pathophysiology of snake envenomation.

Method

Between May 2009 and October 2010, 47 patients were admitted to our emergency department with snake bites, and as a control group 20 healthy volunteers were enrolled in this study. Serum, plasma, and erythrocyte components were prepared for all patients on admission and at the control after 1 month. Serum TOS/TAS levels were measured.

Results

No correlation was observed among age, gender and the levels of TAS, TOS and OSI. TAS, TOS and OSI levels were higher in snake envenomation patients upon arrival at the emergency department than in the healthy control group. Upon admission, all levels of patients with snake envenomation were higher than the control levels taken after 1 month.

Conclusions

Serum TAS, TOS and OSI levels increase in snake envenomation patients. The results obtained in this study indicate that the snake bite was associated with a shift to an oxidative state, and oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathophysiology of snake envenomation.
Defibrillation and external pacing in flight: incidence and implications
Authors: Daly Stuart , Milne Helen J , Holmes Dan P , Corfield Alasdair R
Published: December 2012

Introduction

Emergency electrical intervention for patients in the form of defibrillation, cardioversion and external cardiac pacing can be life saving. Advances in medical technology have enabled electrical intervention to be delivered from small, portable devices. With the rising use of air transport for patients, electrical intervention during aeromedical transfer has an increasing incidence. Our aim was to describe the incidence of electrical intervention in a cohort of critically ill patients undergoing aeromedical transfer and review the risks associated with electrical intervention.

Methods

All secondary retrievals undertaken by a national aeromedical critical care retrieval service were reviewed over a 48-month period.

Results

In a mixed medical and trauma critical care population, 11 of 967 (1.1%) secondary retrievals required electrical intervention during aeromedical critical care retrieval. The median age of these patients was 77 years (range 32–86) and the median transport time was 70 min (range 40–100 min). All of these patients had an underlying primary cardiac condition and had been identified as high risk for developing an arrhythmia.

Conclusions

Electrical intervention in a transport environment brings unique challenges, particularly during aeromedical transport. Our study in a European model shows that there is a small but significant incidence of electrical intervention required during aeromedical flight for critically ill patients. There are potential safety issues with electrical intervention in aeromedical flight; therefore, any service involved in the transport of critically ill patients needs to have a robust procedure in place to deliver this safely.
Three cases of Parafilaria bovicola infection in Belgium, and a few recent epidemiological observations on this emergent disease
Authors: Caron Y. , Groignet S. , Saegerman C. , Losson B. J.
Published: December 2012

Parafilariosis is a vectorborne parasitic disease caused by the development of the nematode Parafilaria bovicola in the subcutaneous and intermuscular connective tissues of cattle. On February 28, 2012, the so‐called bleeding spots were observed in two heifers and one bull in a cattle herd close to Namur (Belgium). The animals had been treated in December with an injectable ivermectin/closantel solution (Closamectin pour‐on, Norbrook Lab) at the recommended dosage. Samples of serohaemorrhagic exudate and blood, as well as skin biopsies, were collected. Embryonated eggs of P bovicola in the serohaemorrhagic exudate and high levels of creatine phosphokinase were detected. Clinically affected animals were treated with injectable ivermectin (Ivomec, Merial) at 200 μg/kg. Two epidemiological phone surveys were carried out in the south of Belgium (Wallonia) in order to estimate the geographical distribution of this condition since it was first described and published in 2009. A standardised questionnaire was used and the results were analysed. Most outbreaks were recorded in the provinces of Liege and Luxembourg. The initial source of infection is still unknown, but this parasitic infection is clearly spreading from the initial Belgian outbreak site.
A NEW ADJACENT PAIR 2D GRAPHICAL REPRESENTATION OF DNA SEQUENCES
Authors: GUPTA MANOJ KUMAR , NIYOGI RAJDEEP , MISRA MANOJ
Published: December 2012

We suggest a new 2D graphical representation of DNA sequences using adjacent nucleotide pairs. The representation is more informative and sensitive as it is based on the chemical properties of nucleotides. We have implemented and tested our method on two different real sequence sets. The results obtained are consistent with those in the literature. We also present a new way to compare alignment-free methods on simulated sequences with known true history. The proposed method is compared with two other recently proposed alignment-free methods. Satisfactory results have been found for sets having large number of sequences.
The role of autoimmunity in obliterative bronchiolitis after lung transplantation
Authors: Weber Daniel J. , Wilkes David S.
Published: December 2012

First performed in the 1960s with long-term successes achieved in the 1980s, lung transplantation remains the only definitive treatment option for end-stage lung disease. Chronic lung rejection, pathologically classified as obliterative bronchiolitis (OB) with its clinical correlate referred to as bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, is the limiting factor than keeps 5-yr survival rates for lung transplant significantly worse than for other solid organ transplants. Initially, OB was largely attributed to immune responses to donor antigens, alloimmunity. However, more recent work has demonstrated the role of autoimmunity in the process of lung transplant rejection. IL-17 and autoantigens such as collagen type V and K-α1 tubulin have been implicated in the development of chronic rejection. Ultimately, this translational review discusses the role that autoimmunity plays in the development of OB and lung transplant rejection and then discusses options for therapeutic intervention.
Six weeks of a polarized training-intensity distribution leads to greater physiological and performance adaptations than a threshold model in trained cyclists
Authors: Neal Craig M. , Hunter Angus M. , Brennan Lorraine , O'Sullivan Aifric , Hamilton D. Lee , DeVito Giuseppe , Galloway Stuart D. R.
Published: December 2012

This study was undertaken to investigate physiological adaptation with two endurance-training periods differing in intensity distribution. In a randomized crossover fashion, separated by 4 wk of detraining, 12 male cyclists completed two 6-wk training periods: 1) a polarized model [6.4 (±1.4 SD) h/wk; 80%, 0%, and 20% of training time in low-, moderate-, and high-intensity zones, respectively]; and 2) a threshold model [7.5 (±2.0 SD) h/wk; 57%, 43%, and 0% training-intensity distribution]. Before and after each training period, following 2 days of diet and exercise control, fasted skeletal muscle biopsies were obtained for mitochondrial enzyme activity and monocarboxylate transporter (MCT) 1 and 4 expression, and morning first-void urine samples were collected for NMR spectroscopy-based metabolomics analysis. Endurance performance (40-km time trial), incremental exercise, peak power output (PPO), and high-intensity exercise capacity (95% maximal work rate to exhaustion) were also assessed. Endurance performance, PPOs, lactate threshold (LT), MCT4, and high-intensity exercise capacity all increased over both training periods. Improvements were greater following polarized rather than threshold for PPO [mean (±SE) change of 8 (±2)% vs. 3 (±1)%, P < 0.05], LT [9 (±3)% vs. 2 (±4)%, P < 0.05], and high-intensity exercise capacity [85 (±14)% vs. 37 (±14)%, P < 0.05]. No changes in mitochondrial enzyme activities or MCT1 were observed following training. A significant multilevel, partial least squares-discriminant analysis model was obtained for the threshold model but not the polarized model in the metabolomics analysis. A polarized training distribution results in greater systemic adaptation over 6 wk in already well-trained cyclists. Markers of muscle metabolic adaptation are largely unchanged, but metabolomics markers suggest different cellular metabolic stress that requires further investigation.
COPD elicits remodeling of the diaphragm and vastus lateralis muscles in humans
Authors: Levine Sanford , Bashir Muhammad H. , Clanton Thomas L. , Powers Scott K. , Singhal Sunil
Published: December 2012

A profound remodeling of the diaphragm and vastus lateralis (VL) occurs in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In this mini-review, we discuss the following costal diaphragm remodeling features noted in patients with moderate-to-severe COPD: 1) deletion of serial sarcomeres, 2) increased proportion of slow-twitch fibers, 3) fast-to-slow isoform shift in sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase, 4) increased capacity of oxidative metabolism, 5) oxidative stress, and 6) myofiber atrophy. We then present the sole feature of diaphragm remodeling noted in mild-to-moderate COPD under the heading “ MyHC and contractile remodeling noted in mild-to-moderate COPD.” The importance of VL remodeling in COPD patients as a prognostic indicator as well as a major determinant of the ability to carry out activities of daily living is well accepted. We present the remodeling of the VL noted in COPD patients under the following headings: 1) Decrease in proportion of slow-twitch fibers, 2) Decreased activity of oxidative pathways, 3) Oxidative and nitrosative stress, and 4) Myofiber atrophy. For each of the remodeling features noted in both the VL and costal diaphragm of COPD patients, we present mechanisms that are currently thought to mediate these changes as well as the pathophysiology of each remodeling feature. We hope that our mechanistic presentation stimulates research in this area that focuses on improving the ability of COPD patients to carry out increased activities of daily living.
Differential effects of targeted tongue exercise and treadmill running on aging tongue muscle structure and contractile properties
Authors: Kletzien Heidi , Russell John A. , Leverson Glen E. , Connor Nadine P.
Published: December 2012

Age-associated changes in tongue muscle structure and strength may contribute to dysphagia in elderly people. Tongue exercise is a current treatment option. We hypothesized that targeted tongue exercise and nontargeted exercise that activates tongue muscles as a consequence of increased respiratory drive, such as treadmill running, are associated with different patterns of tongue muscle contraction and genioglossus (GG) muscle biochemistry. Thirty-one young adult, 34 middle-aged, and 37 old Fischer 344/Brown Norway rats received either targeted tongue exercise, treadmill running, or no exercise (5 days/wk for 8 wk). Protrusive tongue muscle contractile properties and myosin heavy chain (MHC) composition in the GG were examined at the end of 8 wk across groups. Significant age effects were found for maximal twitch and tetanic tension (greatest in young adult rats), MHCIIb (highest proportion in young adult rats), MHCIIx (highest proportion in middle-aged and old rats), and MHCI (highest proportion in old rats). The targeted tongue exercise group had the greatest maximal twitch tension and the highest proportion of MHCI. The treadmill running group had the shortest half-decay time, the lowest proportion of MHCIIa, and the highest proportion of MHCIIb. Fatigue was significantly less in the young adult treadmill running group and the old targeted tongue exercise group than in other groups. Thus, tongue muscle structure and contractile properties were affected by both targeted tongue exercise and treadmill running, but in different ways. Studies geared toward optimizing dose and manner of providing targeted and generalized tongue exercise may lead to alternative tongue exercise delivery strategies.
Dyspnea and Wheezing: Still a Challenge for Pulmonologists
Authors: Castro Ana Sofia , Barroso Ana , Conde Sara , Parente Bárbara
Published: December 2012

Schwannoma is a neurogenic tumor originating from the nerve sheath Schwann cells. Intrathoracic location is rare, and the endobronchial location is exceptional. Schwannoma is a rare tumor; the majority of lesions are benign and usually asymptomatic. The authors present a case report of a 83-year-old woman, nonsmoker, observed in the emergency department for wheezing and cough lasting for 2 months. Chest tomography showed a right hilar pulmonary mass, ill defined, with thick and irregular walls, centered on the upper lobe bronchus, which was obliterated. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy showed a necrotic mass obstructing the right upper lobe bronchus whose biopsy allowed the diagnosis of benign schwannoma. Subsequently, the patient carried tumor ablation by laser bronchoscopy, with the resolution of the respiratory symptoms. This case stands out for its rarity but also because it is an excellent example of the importance of endoscopic techniques for therapeutic purposes. Schwannoma is a benign tumor in which surgical or endoscopic intervention generally prevents local recurrence and associated clinical manifestations.
A New GLLD Operator for Mass Detection in Digital Mammograms
Authors: Gargouri N. , Dammak Masmoudi A. , Sellami Masmoudi D. , Abid R.
Published: December 2012

During the last decade, several works have dealt with computer automatic diagnosis (CAD) of masses in digital mammograms. Generally, the main difficulty remains the detection of masses. This work proposes an efficient methodology for mass detection based on a new local feature extraction. Local binary pattern (LBP) operator and its variants proposed by Ojala are a powerful tool for textures classification. However, it has been proved that such operators are not able to model at their own texture masses. We propose in this paper a new local pattern model named gray level and local difference (GLLD) where we take into consideration absolute gray level values as well as local difference as local binary features. Artificial neural networks (ANNs), support vector machine (SVM), and k-nearest neighbors (kNNs) are, then, used for classifying masses from nonmasses, illustrating better performance of ANN classifier. We have used 1000 regions of interest (ROIs) obtained from the Digital Database for Screening Mammography (DDSM). The area under the curve of the corresponding approach has been found to beAz=0.95for the mass detection step. A comparative study with previous approaches proves that our approach offers the best performances.
Selective Involvement of Serum Response Factor in Pressure-Induced Myogenic Tone in Resistance Arteries
Authors: Retailleau Kevin , Toutain Bertrand , Galmiche Guillaume , Fassot Céline , Sharif-Naeini Reza , Kauffenstein Gilles , Mericskay Mathias , Duprat Fabrice , Grimaud Linda , Merot Jean , Lardeux Aurelie , Pizard Anne , Baudrie Véronique , Jeunemaitre Xavier , Feil Robert , Göthert Joachim R. , Lacolley Patrick , Henrion Daniel , Li Zhenlin , Loufrani Laurent
Published: December 2012

Objective—

In resistance arteries, diameter adjustment in response to pressure changes depends on the vascular cytoskeleton integrity. Serum response factor (SRF) is a dispensable transcription factor for cellular growth, but its role remains unknown in resistance arteries. We hypothesized that SRF is required for appropriate microvascular contraction.

Methods and Results—

We used mice in which SRF was specifically deleted in smooth muscle or endothelial cells, and their control. Myogenic tone and pharmacological contraction was determined in resistance arteries. mRNA and protein expression were assessed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot. Actin polymerization was determined by confocal microscopy. Stress-activated channel activity was measured by patch clamp. Myogenic tone developing in response to pressure was dramatically decreased by SRF deletion (5.9±2.3%) compared with control (16.3±3.2%). This defect was accompanied by decreases in actin polymerization, filamin A, myosin light chain kinase and myosin light chain expression level, and stress-activated channel activity and sensitivity in response to pressure. Contractions induced by phenylephrine or U46619 were not modified, despite a higher sensitivity to p38 blockade; this highlights a compensatory pathway, allowing normal receptor-dependent contraction.

Conclusion—

This study shows for the first time that SRF has a major part to play in the control of local blood flow via its central role in pressure-induced myogenic tone in resistance arteries.
Risk-Benefit Profile of Warfarin Versus Aspirin in Patients With Heart Failure and Sinus Rhythm
Authors: Lee Meng , Saver Jeffrey L. , Hong Keun-Sik , Wu Hsiu-Chuan , Ovbiagele Bruce
Published: December 2012

Background—

The risk-benefit profile of warfarin versus aspirin for patients with heart failure in normal sinus rhythm has not been definitively established. Our objective was to evaluate the overall comparative effects of warfarin and aspirin in patients with heart failure and normal sinus rhythm.

Methods and Results—

Pubmed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Clinicaltrials.gov from January 1966 to June 2012 were searched to identify relevant studies. We included randomized controlled trials that included comparison of warfarin versus aspirin, and composite end point of death or stroke separately for active treatment and control groups. Summary incidence rates, relative risks (RRs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects models. The search identified 4 randomized controlled trials of warfarin versus aspirin therapy, enrolling 3663 patients. There was no significant difference between the 2 treatments for the primary end point (warfarin versus aspirin: RR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.84–1.06;
P
=0.31). Warfarin (versus aspirin) was associated with lower risk of any stroke (RR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.38–0.82;
P
=0.003) and ischemic stroke (RR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.24–0.86;
P
=0.02) but had a neutral effect on death (RR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.89–1.14;
P
=0.89) and a higher risk of major bleeding (RR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.37–2.76;
P
=0.0002).

Conclusions—

Compared with aspirin, warfarin does not provide benefit in the prevention of stroke and death among patients with heart failure in sinus rhythm, but raises the risk of major bleeding; and therefore its use in these patients is not justified.
Family, Duty and Expectation: A Case for the Joint Performance of Pindar’s Isthmian 2 and Pythian 6
Authors: Clear Robert
Published: December 2012

Abstract

This paper argues that Pythian 6 was reperformed at the premier of Isthmian 2. The audience’s reception of the two performances is explored, as well as the social and performative agenda of Isthmian 2. It is argued that this joint performance had a specific social utility: to direct the audience to construe Thrasyboulos as the heir to his father’s status and honour.
Culture, Reform Politics, and Future Directions: A Review of China’s Animal Protection Challenge
Authors: Li Peter J. , Davey Gareth
Published: December 2012

Abstract

Incidents of animal abuse in China attract worldwide media attention. Is China culturally inclined to animal cruelty, or is the country’s development strategy a better explanation? This article addresses the subject of animal protection in China, a topic that has been ignored for too long by Western China specialists. A review of ancient Chinese thought asks whether China lacks a legacy of compassion for animals. The article then considers how China’s reform politics underlie the animal welfare crisis. Through its discussion of the welfare crisis impacting nonhuman animals in China, this paper sheds light on the enormity of the country’s animal protection challenge. It concludes with an optimistic prediction for the future, despite the obstacles that remain in the way of animal protection policy change.
Cat Person, Dog Person, Gay, or Heterosexual: The Effect of Labels on a Man’s Perceived Masculinity, Femininity, and Likability
Authors: Mitchell Robert W. , Ellis Alan L.
Published: December 2012

Abstract

American undergraduates (192 male, 521 female) rated masculinity, femininity, and likability of two men (one highly masculine and unfeminine, one normally masculine with low femininity) from a videotaped interaction. Participants were informed that both men were cat persons, dog persons, heterosexual, adopted, or gay, or were unlabeled. Participants rated the men less masculine when cat persons than when dog persons or unlabeled, and less masculine and more feminine when gay than when anything else or unlabeled. The more masculine man received lower feminine ratings when a dog person than when a heterosexual, and higher masculine ratings when a dog person than when unlabeled. Labels did not affect likability. Overall, the gay label consistently promoted cross-gender attributions, the dog person label encouraged somewhat heightened gender-appropriate attributions, and the cat person label allowed for normative attributions.
“Support Your Local Invasive Species”: Animal Protection Rhetoric and Nonnative Species
Authors: Seymour Mona
Published: December 2012

Abstract

This article explores protection efforts that have arisen in the New York City metropolitan area around the monk parakeet, a nonnative bird that has achieved a broad distribution outside its native habitat range. In some urban regions in which populations are established, controversy has developed around the parakeets’ use of utility infrastructure and potential impacts on native species and agricultural crops. This case provides an opportunity to explore animal protection rhetoric about nonnative species, an understudied topic, considering the great extent to which species have become established in ecosystems outside their natural ranges and the persistence of public affinity for nonnative plants and wildlife. This article identifies four major frames through which advocates have delivered the birds to public and legal audiences and considers how they have mobilized and handled notions of “nonnative-ness” in their advocacy work.
Looking for New Forms of Legitimacy in Asia
Authors: Castelló Itziar , Galang Roberto Martin N.
Published: December 2012

Through a rhetoric analysis of 776 projects from firms located in 22 Asian countries, the authors argue that companies are looking for new forms of legitimacy that cannot be completely explained using traditional management theories. The authors introduce political theory into the debate. First, this study proposes a three-approach model of legitimation: The first approach is based on the strategic rhetoric as a mechanism for achieving pragmatic legitimacy, the second one uses the institutional rhetoric for gaining cognitive legitimacy, and the third, the political approach, is one through which firms seek to obtain moral legitimacy. The political strategy is aimed at improving the discursive quality between corporations and their stakeholders. Second, since the motivation for differing legitimacy strategies should be understood within their institutional environment, the authors look for patterns within each strategy dependent on national, industry, and firm-specific characteristics.
Assessing the Cost of Electronically Monitoring High-Risk Sex Offenders
Authors: Omori Marisa K. , Turner Susan F.
Published: December 2012

In addition to housing, employment, and registration restrictions, sex offenders have been subjected to electronic monitoring with the idea that they may be either surveilled or deterred from committing additional crime. This study evaluated the supervision costs of placing high-risk sex offender parolees on Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) monitoring as part of a pilot program by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Using a quasiexperimental design, the study tracked parolees’ costs of supervision and their parole violations for 1 year. GPS was not cost-effective; the overall cost of parolees on GPS was greater than parolees not on the monitoring, the two groups committed similar parole violations, and parolees on GPS were retained on parole longer.
Stopping Decisions
Authors: Yu Michael , Gonzalez Cleotilde
Published: December 2012

Objective:

We investigated how the order in which information is presented affects when a person decides to stop performing a task.

Background:

A stopping decision is a decision to stop performing a task on the basis of a sequence of cues. Previous order-effects models do not account for how these contexts limit available working memory for making such decisions.

Method:

Participants decided how long to perform a task known as the Work Hazard Game that began by rewarding points but later cost points if work continued after an unannounced “emergency.” An additive sequence of cues indicated the probability of an emergency. Study 1 involved a three-group design with cue sequences that indicated the same risk at each decision point but whose final cue presented a high, medium, or low probability. Study 2 had a 2 × 2 design with high or low final cues and an easy or a challenging task.

Results:

In Study 1, participants stopped sooner when the most recent cue presented a high rather than low probability ( p = .09), despite the same emergency risk. In Study 2, participants stopped sooner when the most recent cue presented a high rather than low probability for the challenging task but not for the easy task ( p = .08).

Conclusion:

Stopping decisions appear sensitive to the most recent cue observed while experiencing task load. Participants responded to the same risks differently only on the basis of a change in presentation.

Application:

Findings may be relevant for research and training for hazardous jobs, such as subsurface coal mining, fishing, and trucking.
Making Change Happen
Authors: Ghitulescu Brenda E.
Published: December 2012

The success of organizational change increasingly depends on employees taking personal responsibility for change through effective adaptation to changing conditions and proactive anticipation of new challenges. In this study, we examined how work context features influence the change-oriented behaviors of adaptivity and proactivity in the workplace. We proposed several direct and moderating effects of job context variables on adaptive and proactive behaviors. We used a multilevel design and a unique data set with 621 special education teachers embedded in 157 urban public schools to test our hypotheses. Our analyses show that adaptive and proactive behaviors are distinct aspects of job performance during organizational change and that different job features have distinct direct and moderating effects on these behaviors. Our results provide insights into how leaders of change efforts can create a work context that encourages employees to actively participate in the change process.
Inter-Religious Violence and its Aftermath: Insights from Indian and Nigerian Cities
Authors: Rakodi Carole
Published: December 2012

Azar’s framework for analysing protracted social conflict is used to examine the roles played by religious and other actors in episodes of inter-religious violence and their aftermath in two cities in India (Ahmedabad and Mumbai) and two in Nigeria (Jos and Kano). Although the violence was apparently related to differences in beliefs and/or religious expansionism, explanations were more complicated. Religious organizations provided relief to victims from their own tradition, but played only limited roles in the longer term aftermath. Several features of the violent episodes and their aftermath help to explain why the inter-religious conflicts studied have become protracted.