bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Familial Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease with a V180I Mutation: Comparative Analysis with Pathological Findings and Diffusion-Weighted Images
Authors: Mutsukura Kazuo , Satoh Katsuya , Shirabe Susumu , Tomita Itsuro , Fukutome Takayasu , Morikawa Minoru , Iseki Masachika , Sasaki Kensuke , Shiaga Yusei , Kitamoto Tetsuyuki , Eguchi Katsumi
Published: December 2009

Background: Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) has been reported to be a useful technique for diagnosing Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). The present study reported DWI results in cases of familial CJD with a V180I mutation (CJD180) in the prion protein gene as well as neurological findings. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 3 patients with V180I was performed. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, brain MRI, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) were included. CSF was analyzed for biochemical markers, and each patient underwent brain MRI, SPECT, and MRS analysis. A brain biopsy from the frontal cortex, which corresponded to the area of increased DWI signals, was utilized for neuropathological analysis. Results: CSF analysis results revealed elevated total tau protein and the absence of 14-3-3 protein, as well as decreased concentrations of neuron-specific enolase, S100 protein, and prostaglandin E2. All patients presented with unique MRI features. Brain biopsy showed severe spongiform morphology, but comparatively preserved neurons and mild astrocytic gliosis. Accumulations of PrPSc were not detected using the 3F4 antibody, and microglial activation was subtle. SPECT revealed hypoperfusion throughout both hemispheres. MRS revealed a reduced N-acetyl aspartate/creatine ratio. Conclusion: Results from this study suggested that increased DWI signals could reflect severe spongiform changes in CJD180 patients.
Sealants in Dentistry: Outcomes of the ORCA Saturday Afternoon Symposium 2007
Authors: Splieth C.H. , Ekstrand K.R. , Alkilzy M. , Clarkson J. , Meyer-Lueckel H. , Martignon S. , Paris S. , Pitts N.B. , Ricketts D.N. , van Loveren C.
Published: December 2009

Sealants are a successful tool in caries prevention, but their role in preventive strategies after the caries decline has to be discussed. A survey of paediatric departments across Europe revealed that indications for pit and fissure sealants vary considerably, both nationally and internationally. Evidence for effectiveness of sealants in controlling caries in posterior teeth implies that sealants should be an integrated part of management of pit and fissure caries. Still, the indication for occlusal sealants seems to be shifting from primary prevention to a therapeutic decision for caries management of lesions in enamel and the outer part of the dentine. Sealants are also an interesting concept for caries management in approximal surfaces. Clinical trials suggest that novel techniques of sealing or infiltrating approximal lesions show promise. However, approximal sealing techniques are as complex to apply and time-consuming as approximal fillings. The article proposes guidelines for teaching on the use of sealants.
Risk Indicators for Tooth Wear in Sri Lankan Adolescents
Authors: Ratnayake N. , Ekanayake L.
Published: December 2009

The aim of the study was to determine the risk indicators for tooth wear in Sri Lankan adolescents. A total of 1,200 17-year-olds were selected using a two-stage cluster sampling technique from schools in the Colombo district. The data were collected by means of a self-administered questionnaire and a clinical examination. A modified version of Smith and Knight’s index of tooth wear was used to record tooth wear on occlusal/incisal, buccal and lingual/palatal surfaces of teeth excluding the third molars. Tooth wear was present in 22% of the adolescents, while nearly 9% had at least 1 wear lesion extending up to the dentine. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the consumption of Coca Cola® (OR: 2.60; 95% CI: 1.41–4.78), apples (OR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.04–2.58), the father’s occupation (OR: 2.20; 95% CI: 1.29–3.74) and chewing vitamin C tablets (OR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.03–2.75) were significantly associated with dentinal wear, while tooth wear was associated with the consumption of oranges (OR: 1.60; 95% CI: 1.09–2.37) and apples (OR: 1.38; 95% CI: 1.06–1.80), the father’s occupation (OR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.22–2.68) and chewing vitamin C tablets (OR: 1.44; 95% CI: 1.04–2.00). As the father’s occupation could be considered as a proxy measure of socioeconomic status, the findings suggest that tooth wear in Sri Lankan adolescents is a disorder of affluence.
Fluid Temperature at the Corneal Endothelium during Phacoemulsification: Comparison of an Ophthalmic Viscosurgical Device and Balanced Salt Solution Using the Finite Element Method
Authors: Reepolmaha Somporn , Limtrakarn Wiroj , Uthaisang-Tanechpongtamb Wanlaya , Dechaumphai Pramote
Published: December 2009

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to estimate and compare the temperatures of two different anterior chamber solutions at the corneal endothelial level during phacoemulsification. An ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) and balanced salt solution (BSS) were compared using the finite element method (FEM). Materials and Methods: The thermal properties of an OVD (IAL-F) and BSS were studied in an experimental setting. A computer-aided design model of ocular anatomy was created in two dimensions. The phaco needle was considered to be the only source of heat generation. Then, the FEM was used to demonstrate the transient temperature distribution in the two ocular models at 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 s. In these models, the anterior chamber was filled with IAL-F (IAL-F model) or BSS (BSS model). Results: The heat generation rate of the phaco needle was 0.0004 cal/s/mm2. The maximum corneal endothelial temperatures for the two models at 60 s were 52.67 and 41.57°C, respectively. The experimental IAL-F model showed fewer changes in temperature for any given time and location. At larger distances from the heat source, less temperature variation was detected. Conclusion: Phacoemulsification is a potential heat-generating procedure performed between the delicate anterior chamber structures. During this procedure, IAL-F protects the endothelium against heat better than BSS.
Is the Insertional Anatomy of Rectus Extraocular Muscles Binocularly Symmetrical?
Authors: Cho Hyun Kyung , Shin Sun Young
Published: December 2009

Purpose: This study was performed to examine the location, width, and insertional shape of rectus extraocular muscles (EOMs), and to elucidate the symmetry of the insertional anatomy of rectus EOMs in the left and right eyes. Methods: EOMs were dissected from their origin to the insertion point in 100 intact orbits of 50 cadavers. The width, location, and shape of 4 rectus EOMs insertions were measured. The insertional shapes were classified into 6 categories: straight, oblique, convex, oblique-convex, concave, and nonspecific types. Results: The most common types of insertional shapes were superior rectus muscle, oblique type (34%); inferior rectus muscle, oblique type (7%); lateral rectus muscle, concave type (41%); and medial rectus muscle, straight type (37%). The distance from the limbus to insertion and the width of rectus EOMs were almost symmetrical between the left and right eyes of the paired specimens. However, the insertional shapes were different in 46% of the superior rectus, 56% of the inferior rectus, 58% of the lateral rectus, and 46% of the medial rectus muscles. In a given individual, 49 individuals demonstrated asymmetric insertional shapes in at least 1 rectus EOM in both eyes. Conclusions: Ocular surgeons should consider the possibility of differences in the insertional shape of rectus EOMs between the left and right eyes, especially when performing rectus EOM recession.
Evaluation of Plasma Glutamate Levels in Normal Tension Glaucoma
Authors: Bunting H. , Still R. , Williams D.R. , Gravenor M. , Austin M.W.
Published: December 2009

Aim/Background: Abnormal metabolism of the neurotransmitter glutamate is implicated in a number of neurodegenerative conditions. Patients with migraine have been shown to have elevated plasma glutamate levels. Migraine is a risk factor both in terms of prevalence and progression in normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). The aim of this study was to determine whether or not plasma glutamate levels are also elevated in NTG. Methods: Patients were recruited into 2 groups, NTG and control, according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients with migraine were excluded from both groups. Fasting blood samples were collected in lithium heparin tubes, transported on ice, and centrifuged for storage at –21°C. Plasma glutamate levels were measured by an amino acid analyser. Data for each group were compared by applying the Mann-Whitney test. Ethical approval and independent statistical advice for the study was obtained. Results: A total of 27 subjects were recruited: 14 to the NTG group and 13 to the control group. No significant difference was found between the plasma glutamate levels in the 2 groups (p = 0.67). Conclusion: Although an association between normal tension and migraine is recognized, unlike studies in migraine sufferers, this study finds no evidence that patients with NTG have elevated plasma glutamate.
The in vitro Study of Pressure Change Effect on Corneal Birefringence
Authors: Xiao Zhen , Wang Chong , Hao Yan-sheng
Published: December 2009

Purpose: To study the change of corneal birefringence at different pressures in vitro to determine whether corneal birefringence changes along with pressure. Methods: The pattern of corneal birefringence was recorded at different intraocular pressures. The pressure differences were 0.10, 0.50 and 1.00 mm Hg, respectively. To compare the pattern sequence at two pressure values, a nonpaired t test was performed. Results: Statistical analysis indicates that the difference of the corneal birefringence is significant when the pressure difference was more than 0.50 mm Hg in polarized light. Conclusion: The results of corneal photoelasticity in vitro demonstrate that the change in pressure on the cornea leads to a change in corneal birefringence.
Management of Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak following Retrosigmoid Posterior Cranial Fossa Surgery
Authors: Bayazit Yıldırım A. , Celenk Fatih , Duzlu Mehmet , Goksu Nebil
Published: December 2009

Objective: To detail our experience in the management of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak following posterior cranial fossa surgery by the retrosigmoid approach. Patients and Methods: 412 patients who underwent posterior cranial fossa surgery by the retrosigmoid approach for a variety of diseases were included in the study. Results: There were 32 CSF leaks (7.7%) in the 412 patients. Of these, 16 were leaks from the incision site (50%) and 16 (50%) were CSF rhinorrheas. The CSF leaks were documented in 22 of the vestibular schwannoma surgeries (68.7%) and 10 of the vestibular nerve sectioning surgeries (31.3%). No CSF leak was seen following microvascular decompression and auditory brain stem implantation surgeries. Ten patients could be treated conservatively. Twelve patients needed the placement of a lumbar drainage. Surgical reexploration was performed in 10 patients. Conclusions: Initially, a conservative treatment should be instituted in the case of a CSF leak. If the conservative treatment fails, the placement of a lumbar drainage should be considered. Patients that do not respond to lumbar drainage require surgical reexploration. The abovementioned algorithm represents the safest and best option in the presence of a CSF leak, as confirmed by the absence of recurrences or multiple revisions in this study.
Effect of Chronic Kidney Disease and Comorbid Conditions on Health Care Costs: A 10-Year Observational Study in a General Population
Authors: Baumeister Sebastian E. , Böger Carsten A. , Krämer Bernhard K. , Döring Angela , Eheberg Dirk , Fischer Beate , John Jürgen , Koenig Wolfgang , Meisinger Christa
Published: December 2009

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common, but the longitudinal effects of CKD and associated comorbidities on health care costs in the general population are unknown. Methods: Population-based cohort study of 2,988 subjects in Germany, aged 25–74 years at baseline, who participated both in the baseline and 10-year follow-up examination (1994/95–2004/05). Presence of CKD was based on serum creatinine and defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate of <60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Self-reported health services utilization was used to estimate costs. Results: Health care costs at baseline and follow-up were higher for subjects with CKD. Controlling for socio-economics, lifestyle factors and comorbid conditions, subjects with baseline CKD, in comparison to those without, exhibited 65% higher total costs 10 years after baseline examination, corresponding to a difference in adjusted costs of EUR 743. Incident CKD was related to 38% higher total costs. Costs for inpatient treatment and drug costs were the major costs components, while CKD revealed no effect on outpatient costs. The effect of CKD was strongly modified by angina, myocardial infarction, diabetes, and anemia. Conclusions: The direct effect of CKD on costs is modified by comorbid conditions. Therefore, early treatment of CKD and its precipitous factors may save future health care costs.
Tracheobronchitis Caused by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus as a Cause of Chronic Wheezing in a Non-Ventilated Adult Patient with Tracheobronchomalacia
Authors: Kelesidis Theodoros , Osman Sara , Trayner Edward , Worthington Michael , Celli Bartolome
Published: December 2009

Bacterial tracheobronchitis is an extremely rare entity, which was long considered to be a pediatric disease. We report the case of a 65-year-old woman who presented with persistent wheezing, worsening productive cough and sore throat. Computed tomography of the chest revealed the presence of tracheomalacia, confirmed at bronchoscopy. The presence of purulent exudate, coating the trachea and main bronchi, was consistent with bacterial tracheobronchitis. Culture of the tracheal aspirates grew methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). As the patient was afebrile and not systemically ill, the clinical picture was consistent with exudative tracheobronchitis. To our knowledge, this is the first case of MRSA exudative tracheobronchitis and tracheomalacia in a non-ventilated adult. Other adult cases of bacterial tracheobronchitis and MRSA tracheobronchitis in mechanically ventilated patients reported in the literature are also reviewed.Physicians should be aware of the diagnosis of tracheomalacia in adults, which can masquerade as persistent asthma and may be associated with the development of serious infections including MRSA tracheobronchitis.
Association of Median Household Income With Burden of Coronary Artery Disease Among Individuals With Diabetes
Authors: Rabi Doreen M. , Edwards Alun L. , Svenson Lawrence W. , Graham Michelle M. , Knudtson Merril L. , Ghali William A.
Published: December 2009

Background—

Low income is associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Diabetes is more prevalent among low income groups, and low income patients with diabetes have been shown to have a greater burden of cardiovascular risk factors and worse cardiovascular outcomes. The objective of this study was to determine whether income status was associated with burden of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with diabetes.

Methods and Results—

All patients with diabetes presenting for cardiac catheterization between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2002, in Calgary, Canada, were identified through the use of the Alberta Provincial Project for Assessing Outcomes in Coronary Heart Disease (APPROACH) database. This clinical database was merged with Canadian 2001 Census data on median household income per dissemination area using patient postal code data, and income quintiles were derived. Clinical profiles, severity of coronary atherosclerosis, and myocardial jeopardy were compared across income quintiles. Mean scores for severity and jeopardy were compared across income quintiles using analysis of variance. Multivariate linear regression was used to control for baseline differences across income groups.

A total of 4596 patients were eligible for inclusion in this study. Clinical profiles differed significantly across income quintiles, with the highest income quintile being younger (
P
<0.0005), more likely to be male (
P
=0.029), and having a lower prevalence of smoking (
P
=0. 039). Low income groups were more likely to report a history of myocardial infarction (
P
<0.0005) or congestive heart failure (
P
<0.0005). The highest income groups has significantly less coronary atherosclerosis as measured by the weighted Duke index (6.67 versus 7.38,
P
<0.002), but there were no differences in lesion severity as measured by the Duke severity scale (2.31 versus 2.41,
P
=0.334). High income patients has significantly less myocardial jeopardy compared with the lowest income group as measured by the Duke and APPROACH scores (36.44 versus 46.23,
P
=0.0187, and 39.96 versus 45.36,
P
=0.0182, respectively). These differences remained significant even after controlling for baseline clinical differences in cardiovascular risk factor burden.

Conclusions—

Low income is associated with a greater degree of atherosclerosis and greater myocardial jeopardy in patients with diabetes. More needs to be done to reduce cardiovascular risk factor burden in this vulnerable population.
Evaluation of High-Resolution Satellite Precipitation Products over Very Complex Terrain in Ethiopia
Authors: Hirpa Feyera A. , Gebremichael Mekonnen , Hopson Thomas
Published: December 2009

This study focuses on the evaluation of 3-hourly, 0.25° × 0.25°, satellite-based precipitation products: the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) 3B42RT, the NOAA/Climate Prediction Center morphing technique (CMORPH), and Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks (PERSIANN). CMORPH is primarily microwave based, 3B42RT is primarily microwave based when microwave data are available and infrared based when microwave data are not available, and PERSIANN is primarily infrared based. The results show that 1) 3B42RT and CMORPH give similar rainfall fields (in terms of bias, spatial structure, elevation-dependent trend, and distribution function), which are different from PERSIANN rainfall fields; 2) PERSIANN does not show the elevation-dependent trend observed in rain gauge values, 3B42RT, and CMORPH; and 3) PERSIANN considerably underestimates rainfall in high-elevation areas.
Transport and Mixing in the Extratropical Tropopause Region in a High-Vertical-Resolution GCM. Part I: Potential Vorticity and Heat Budget Analysis
Authors: Miyazaki Kazuyuki , Watanabe Shingo , Kawatani Yoshio , Tomikawa Yoshihiro , Takahashi Masaaki , Sato Kaoru
Published: December 2009

A high-vertical-resolution general circulation model (GCM) output has been analyzed to clarify transport and mixing processes in the extratropical tropopause region. The high-resolution GCM, with a vertical resolution of about 300 m above the extratropical upper troposphere, allows simulation of fine atmospheric structures near the tropopause, such as the extratropical tropopause transition layer (ExTL) and the tropopause inversion layer (TIL). The high-resolution GCM realistically simulates fine thermal and dynamic structures in the extratropical tropopause region. The thickness and maximum stability of the simulated TIL are consistent with observations. The high-resolution output was analyzed using a zonal mean potential vorticity (PV) equation to identify dominant transport processes in the extratropical tropopause region. In the Northern Hemisphere extratropics during winter, mean downward advection sharpens the PV gradient between the tropopause and 20 K below it, whereas latitudinal variation in isentropic mixing sharpens the vertical PV gradient between the tropopause and 10 K above it. During summer, vertical mixing substantially sharpens the vertical PV gradient at 10–25 K above the tropopause. These sharpening effects may be strongly related to the formation mechanisms of strong concentration gradients of chemical tracers around the ExTL. Mechanisms of evolution of the TIL are also discussed by analyzing a thermodynamic equation. Downward heat advection and radiation processes primarily determine the seasonality of the TIL. The analysis results suggest that the locations of the TIL and the ExTL can be similar because of common dynamic processes and interactions between constituent distributions and thermal structure.
Jet Alignment in a Two-Layer Quasigeostrophic Channel Using One-Dimensional Grid Warping
Authors: Beechler Brad E. , Weiss Jeffrey B. , Duane Gregory S. , Tribbia Joseph
Published: December 2009

Because of position errors traditional methods of data assimilation can broaden and weaken jets or other flow structures leading to reduced forecast skill. Here a technique to assimilate properties of coherent structures is developed and tested. Focusing on jets, the technique identifies jets in both the modeled and observed fields and warps the model grid so that the jet positions are better aligned prior to further assimilation of observations. The technique is tested using optimal interpolation on the flow in a two-layer quasigeostrophic channel. The results show that a simple and fast jet position correction algorithm can significantly improve the skill of a 12-h forecast. Furthermore, the results indicate that this method of position correction maintains its utility when observations become sparse.
An Attempt to Derive the ɛ Equation from a Two-Point Closure
Authors: Canuto V. M. , Cheng Y. , Howard A. M.
Published: December 2009

The goal of this paper is to derive the equation for the turbulence dissipation rate ɛ for a shear-driven flow. In 1961, Davydov used a one-point closure model to derive the ɛ equation from first principles but the final result contained undetermined terms and thus lacked predictive power. Both in 1987 (Schiestel) and in 2001 (Rubinstein and Zhou), attempts were made to derive the ɛ equation from first principles using a two-point closure, but their methods relied on a phenomenological assumption. The standard practice has thus been to employ a heuristic form of the ɛ equation that contains three empirical ingredients: two constants, c1,ɛ and c2,ɛ, and a diffusion term Dɛ. In this work, a two-point closure is employed, yielding the following results: 1) the empirical constants get replaced by c1, c2, which are now functions of K and ɛ; 2) c1 and c2 are not independent because a general relation between the two that are valid for any K and ɛ are derived; 3) c1, c2 become constant with values close to the empirical values c1,ɛ, c2,ɛ (i.e., homogenous flows); and 4) the empirical form of the diffusion term Dɛ is no longer needed because it gets substituted by the K–ɛ dependence of c1, c2, which plays the role of the diffusion, together with the diffusion of the turbulent kinetic energy DK, which now enters the new ɛ equation (i.e., inhomogeneous flows). Thus, the three empirical ingredients c1,ɛ, c2,ɛ, Dɛ are replaced by a single function c1(K, ɛ) or c2(K, ɛ), plus a DK term. Three tests of the new equation for ɛ are presented: one concerning channel flow and two concerning the shear-driven planetary boundary layer (PBL).
Transport and Mixing in the Extratropical Tropopause Region in a High-Vertical-Resolution GCM. Part II: Relative Importance of Large-Scale and Small-Scale Dynamics
Authors: Miyazaki Kazuyuki , Watanabe Shingo , Kawatani Yoshio , Sato Kaoru , Tomikawa Yoshihiro , Takahashi Masaaki
Published: December 2009

The relative roles of atmospheric motions on various scales, from mesoscale to planetary scale, in transport and mixing in the extratropical tropopause region are investigated using a high-vertical-resolution general circulation model (GCM). The GCM with a vertical resolution of about 300 m explicitly represents the propagation and breaking of gravity waves and the induced transport and mixing. A downward control calculation shows that the Eliassen–Palm (E-P) flux of the gravity waves diverges and induces a mean equatorward flow in the extratropical tropopause region, which differs from the mean poleward flow induced by the convergence of large-scale E-P fluxes. The diffusion coefficients estimated from the eddy potential vorticity flux in tropopause-based coordinates reveal that isentropic motions diffuse air between 20 K below and 10 K above the tropopause from late autumn to early spring, while vertical mixing is strongly suppressed at around 10–15 K above the tropopause throughout the year. The isentropic mixing is mainly caused by planetary- and synoptic-scale motions, while small-scale motions with a horizontal scale of less than a few thousand kilometers largely affect the three-dimensional mixing just above the tropopause. Analysis of the gravity wave energy and atmospheric instability implies that the small-scale dynamics associated with the dissipation and saturation of gravity waves is a significant cause of the three-dimensional mixing just above the tropopause. A rapid increase in the static stability in the tropopause inversion layer is considered to play an important role in controlling the gravity wave activity around the tropopause.
The Role of Ocean Dynamics in the Optimal Growth of Tropical SST Anomalies
Authors: Zanna Laure , Heimbach Patrick , Moore Andrew M. , Tziperman Eli
Published: December 2009

The role of ocean dynamics in optimally exciting interannual variability of tropical sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies is investigated using an idealized-geometry ocean general circulation model. Initial temperature and salinity perturbations leading to an optimal growth of tropical SST anomalies, typically arising from the nonnormal dynamics, are evaluated. The structure of the optimal perturbations is characterized by relatively strong deep salinity anomalies near the western boundary generating a transient amplification of equatorial SST anomalies in less than four years.

The associated growth mechanism is linked to the excitation of coastal and equatorial Kelvin waves near the western boundary following a rapid geostrophic adjustment owing to the optimal initial temperature and salinity perturbations. The results suggest that the nonnormality of the ocean dynamics may efficiently create large tropical SST variability on interannual time scales in the Atlantic without the participation of air–sea processes or the meridional overturning circulation. An optimal deep initial salinity perturbation of 0.1 ppt located near the western boundary can result in a tropical SST anomaly of approximately 0.45°C after nearly four years, assuming the dynamics are linear. Possible mechanisms for exciting such deep perturbations are discussed. While this study is motivated by tropical Atlantic SST variability, its relevance to other basins is not excluded.

The optimal initial conditions leading to the tropical SST anomalies’ growth are obtained by solving a generalized eigenvalue problem. The evaluation of the optimals is achieved by using the Massachusetts Institute of Technology general circulation model (MITgcm) tangent linear and adjoint models as well the the Arnoldi Package (ARPACK) software for solving large-scale eigenvalue problems.
A Trigger Mechanism for Loop Current Ring Separations
Authors: Sturges Wilton , Hoffmann Nicholas G. , Leben Robert R.
Published: December 2009

The Loop Current in the Gulf of Mexico sheds large anticyclonic rings on an irregular basis. The authors attempt to show what actually triggers the ring separations. Pulses of increased transport through the Florida Straits, as observed by the cable data, are observed prior to each ring separation. This finding is consistent over all separation events observed in the satellite altimetry record. The pulses of transport occur approximately two to four weeks before the rings separate. The increase in transport is usually accompanied by a corresponding increase in offshore sea level, suggesting forcing from the open ocean. The delay times between the pulses of increased transport and ring separations can be shown to be significantly correlated with the length of the Loop Current. Mean sea levels over the Caribbean and Gulf also peak before the separations, on average.
The New York Bight Jet: Climatology and Dynamical Evolution
Authors: Colle Brian A. , Novak David R.
Published: December 2009

This paper describes the southerly New York Bight (NYB) jet (11–17 m s−1) that develops primarily during the warm season just above the surface offshore (east) of the northern New Jersey coast and south of Long Island (the NYB). Observations from two offshore buoys are used to develop a 9-yr climatology of 134 jet events from 1997 to 2006. There is a seasonal maximum (2.5 events per month) during June and July, with a skew toward the spring months. The wind directions for the jet trace out a nearly elliptical orbit for the 24-h period around the time of jet maximum at ~2300 UTC [1900 eastern daylight time (EDT)] on average. Composites reveal that the NYB jet occurs on days with southwesterly synoptic flow, and the jet is part of a larger-scale (200–300 km) wind enhancement offshore of the mid-Atlantic and northeast U.S. coasts during the early evening hours.

High-resolution observations (surface mesonet, aircraft soundings, and a terminal Doppler weather radar) and Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model simulations down to 1.33-km grid spacing are used to diagnose the evolution of the NYB jet on 2 June 2007. The NYB jet at ~150 m MSL occurs within the sloping marine inversion near the coast. Low-level trajectories illustrate low-level diffluence and weak subsidence within the jet. A WRF momentum budget highlights the evolving pressure gradient and accelerations during jet formation. The maximum jet winds occur 1–2 h after the peak meridional pressure gradient is established through a geostrophic adjustment process. Sensitivity experiments show that jet occurrence is dependent on diurnal heating and that the concave bend in the southern New Jersey coast limits the southern extent of the jet.
Developmental Changes in Processing Speed: Influence of Accelerated Education for Gifted Children
Authors: Xiaoju Duan  , Jiannong Shi  , Dan Zhou
Published: December 2009

There are two major hypotheses concerning the developmental trends of processing speeds. These hypotheses explore both local and global trends. The study presented here investigates the effects of people’s different knowledge on the speed with which they are able to process information. The participants in this study are gifted children aged 9, 11, and 13 years. A total of 94 of the participants were members of gifted programs, whereas the other 93 children received standard education. They were required to finish two information-processing tasks: a Choice Reaction Time task and an Abstract Matching task. The results show that the reaction time of gifted children who received accelerated education in gifted programs was significantly faster than that of the children who received standard education at every age. These results seem to imply that the educational atmosphere in which a child is placed plays a significant role in the development of gifted children’s speed of information processing.

Putting the Research to Use

This study serves to demonstrate that experience and knowledge may influence the development of information processing speed. It appears that specialized education for gifted children can actually accelerate development, suggesting that selection of educational system is of particular significance, especially for gifted children. Gifted children can study more quickly than average children because they have a higher speed of information processing. The efficacy of their study results in greater transmission of knowledge, and this in turn accelerates gifted children’s information processing speed. Accelerated education can not only satisfy the cognitive need of gifted children but also serve to enhance their cognitive development. Teachers and parents have to recognize that education is very important to children’s development and address the importance of experience in gifted children’s learning. The results of the present study also suggest a need for a special education system designed for gifted children, which can be viewed as a great investment in the future.
Exploring the Relationship of College Freshmen Honors Students’ Effort and Ability Attribution, Interest, and Implicit Theory of Intelligence With Perceived Ability
Authors: Siegle Del , Rubenstein Lisa Da Via , Pollard Elizabeth , Romey Elizabeth
Published: December 2009

Although there are several explanations for why one succeeds or fails, effort and ability are the major causes that students report. The purpose of the present study was to measure the perceptions of 149 college freshmen enrolled in a university honors program about their skills in 15 talent areas. In addition, this study explored the relationship of interests and ability and effort attributions with self-efficacy and investigated gender differences in these perceptions. There was a positive relationship between students’ interest in a talent area and their assessment of their skill in that area. The strongest relationships tended to be in nonacademic areas. For some talents, males placed stronger attributions on the role that natural ability played, whereas females indicated that personal effort contributed to high levels of performance. Participants’ implicit theory of intelligence did not appear to influence their perceptions of the importance of ability in academic performance.

Putting the Research to Use

Educators and parents must recognize the important role interest plays in student achievement. Interest is one of the single best predictors of high performance in a variety of talent areas. For gifted students to sustain the effort necessary to reach high levels of academic rigor, they must either be interested in the topic or find the task meaningful. Educators may need to modify their instruction and curriculum to capitalize on student interests. Gifted students appear to be aware of their high ability and view it as contributing to their success. Although some researchers have cautioned against recognizing student ability at the peril of diminishing the importance of effort, educators and parents should not be fearful of discussing the role ability plays in gifted students’ performances, while also emphasizing the importance of hard work and perseverance.
Effects of Rehydration on Dentin Strengthened by Heating or UV Irradiation
Authors: Hayashi M. , Okamura K. , Koychev E.V. , Furuya Y. , Sugeta A. , Ota T. , Ebisu S.
Published: December 2009

Type I collagen, the major organic component of human dentin, plays an important role in regulating the mechanical strength of dentin. Collagen in dentin can be strengthened by heating. We hypothesized that UV irradiation could produce similar strengthening effects and might maintain the strength of dentin after rehydration. Beam-shaped dentin specimens from the crowns of human third molars were subjected to flexural testing. Flexural strengths were two and three times greater than those in the control group after 5 minutes’ UV irradiation and heating to 140°C, respectively. After 30 days of rehydration, the heated specimens reverted to their original strength, whereas the UV specimens were 69% stronger than the original. Raman spectra of dental collagen were unchanged after heating, whereas several peaks, including a C-C bond in a proline ring, were amplified by UV irradiation. It is concluded that dentin strengthened by UV irradiation retains strength after rehydration because of chemical changes in collagen.
Seeing the Bigger Picture: Troubling Movements to End Teacher Education
Authors: Kumashiro Kevin K.
Published: December 2009

Movements to end teacher education by framing it as irrelevant have deep historical roots and, in recent years, have become quite commonsensical, so much so that even teacher educators struggle to reframe the debate and to make the case for their role in improving public education. This article examines three ways that social movements have worked to stratify public education over the past century, with each movement experiencing an ideological shift in response to the civil rights movements of the mid-1900s. The case of Chicago is presented as a starting point. Three theoretical lenses help to differentiate what are really overlapping movements—namely, neoliberalism, Christian fundamentalism, and neoconservatism—that make attacks on public education and teacher education seem like “common sense.” Implications for reframing teacher education conclude the article.
Rethinking the Connections Between Campus Courses and Field Experiences in College- and University-Based Teacher Education
Authors: Zeichner Ken
Published: December 2009

This article examines a variety of work currently going on across the country in newly created hybrid spaces to more closely connect campus courses and field experiences in university-based preservice teacher education. It is argued that the old paradigm of university-based teacher education where academic knowledge is viewed as the authoritative source of knowledge about teaching needs to change to one where there is a nonhierarchical interplay between academic, practitioner, and community expertise. It is argued that this new epistemology for teacher education will create expanded learning opportunities for prospective teachers that will better prepare them to be successful in enacting complex teaching practices.
Teacher Education and the American Future
Authors: Darling-Hammond Linda
Published: December 2009

For teacher education, this is perhaps the best of times and the worst of times. It may be the best of times because so much hard work has been done by many teacher educators over the past two decades to develop more successful program models and because voters have just elected a president of the United States who has a strong commitment to the improvement of teaching. It may be the worst of times because there are so many forces in the environment that conspire to undermine these efforts. In this article, the author discusses the U.S. context for teacher education, the power of teacher preparation for transforming teaching and learning, and the current challenges for this enterprise in the United States.
The Public Expression of Citizen Teachers
Authors: Grumet Madeleine R.
Published: December 2009

The imposition of the audit culture on schooling has severely limited teachers’ freedom and dignity, exacerbating traditions of teacher education and employment that are infantilizing. If teachers are to participate in the politics that determine curriculum and pedagogy, education programs must provide differentiated credentials that welcome adults into teaching and offer insight into the processes of political organizing and public speech.
From Ideal to Practice and Back Again: Beginning Teachers Teaching for Social Justice
Authors: Agarwal Ruchi , Epstein Shira , Oppenheim Rachel , Oyler Celia , Sonu Debbie
Published: December 2009

The five authors of this article designed a multicase study to follow recent graduates of an elementary preservice teacher education program into their beginning teaching placements and explore the ways in which they enacted social justice curricula. The authors highlight the stories of three beginning teachers, honoring the plurality of their conceptions of social justice teaching and the resiliency they exhibited in translating social justice ideals into viable pedagogy. They also discuss the struggles the teachers faced when enacting social justice curricula and the tenuous connection they perceived between their conceptions and their practices. The authors emphasize that such struggles are inevitable and end the article with recommendations for ways in which teacher educators can prepare beginning teachers for the uncertain journey of teaching for social justice.
Reconceptualizing Prison Adjustment: A Multidimensional Approach Exploring Female Offenders’ Adjustment to Prison Life
Authors: Van Tongeren Daryl R. , Klebe Kelli J.
Published: December 2009

Prison adjustment research has often relied on unidimensional measurement approaches. However, examining immediate adjustment to the prison environment without considering longer term reintegration back into society is theoretically and pragmatically limited. The purpose of this study was to broaden the definition of adjustment to prison, suggesting that it is a multidimensional construct. Furthermore, different types of adjusters were expected based on the multifaceted nature of the adjustment process. The identification of distinct adjuster types supports the conceptualization of adjustment as a multidimensional concept.
Prisons and Rural Pennsylvania Communities: Exploring the Health of the Relationship and the Possibility of Improvement
Authors: Courtright Kevin E. , Packard Susan H. , Hannan Michael J. , Brennan Edward T.
Published: December 2009

This article is part of a larger study that sought to measure community satisfaction with and perceptions about the economic impact of state correctional facilities located within four rural communities in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.The project culminated in the development of recommendations for policies that could benefit rural communities presently hosting, or considering hosting, a correctional institution. This article briefly discusses the relevant literature and the methodology used in the study and then presents and discusses policy recommendations in a rank ordering based on their relative importance. The goal of this research is to recommend policies that may improve the sometimes strained relationships between correctional institutions and their host communities.
Integrating Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Depression Treatment Among African Americans
Authors: Bogner Hillary R. , de Vries Heather F.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine whether integrating depression treatment into care for type 2 diabetes mellitus among older African Americans improved medication adherence, glycemic control, and depression outcomes.

Methods

Older African Americans prescribed pharmacotherapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus and depression from physicians at a large primary care practice in west Philadelphia were randomly assigned to an integrated care intervention or usual care. Adherence was assessed at baseline, 2, 4, and 6 weeks using the Medication Event Monitoring System to assess adherence. Outcomes assessed at baseline and 12 weeks included standard laboratory tests to measure glycemic control and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) to assess depression.

Results

In all, 58 participants aged 50 to 80 years participated. The proportion of participants who had 80% or greater adherence to an oral hypoglycemic (intervention 62.1% vs usual care 24.1%) and an antidepressant (intervention 62.1% vs usual care 10.3%) was greater in the intervention group in comparison with the usual care group at 6 weeks. Participants in the integrated care intervention had lower levels of glycosylated hemoglobin (intervention 6.7% vs usual care 7.9%) and fewer depressive symptoms (CES-D mean scores: intervention 9.6 vs usual care 16.6) compared with participants in the usual care group at 12 weeks.

Conclusion

A pilot randomized controlled trial integrating type 2 diabetes mellitus treatment and depression was successful in improving outcomes among older African Americans. Integrated interventions may be more feasible and effective in real-world practices with competing demands for limited resources.
A Review and Synthesis of Situational Strength in the Organizational Sciences
Authors: Meyer Rustin D. , Dalal Reeshad S. , Hermida Richard
Published: December 2009

Situational strength pertains to the idea that various characteristics of situations have the ability to restrict the expression and, therefore, the criterion-related validity of individual differences. Despite situational strength’s intuitive appeal, however, little information exists regarding its construct space. This review (a) categorizes extant operationalizations into four facets (constraints, consequences, clarity, and consistency), (b) examines the empirical literature on situational strength—relevant hypotheses, and, on the basis of the proposed taxonomy and literature review, (c) provides several avenues for future theoretical and empirical research. It is the authors’ hope that these efforts will encourage additional research and theorizing on this potentially important psychological construct.
The Resource-Based View: A Review and Assessment of Its Critiques
Authors: Kraaijenbrink Jeroen , Spender J.-C. , Groen Aard J.
Published: December 2009

The resource-based view (RBV) of the firm has been around for over 20 years—during which time it has been both widely taken up and subjected to considerable criticism. The authors review and assess the principal critiques evident in the literature, arguing they fall into eight categories. They conclude the RBV’s core message can withstand criticism from five of these quite well provided the RBV’s variables, boundaries, and applicability are adequately specified. Three critiques that cannot be readily dismissed call for further theorizing and research. They arise from the indeterminate nature of two of the RBV’s basic concepts—resource and value—and the narrow conceptualization of a firm’s competitive advantage. As their suggestions for this work indicate, the authors feel the RBV community has clung to an inappropriately narrow neoclassical economic rationality, thereby diminishing its opportunities for progress. The authors’ suggestions may assist with developing the RBV into a more viable theory of competitive advantage, especially if it is moved into a genuinely dynamic framework.
Suicidal Ideation in Adolescents: An Explanatory Model Using LISREL
Authors: Park Young-Joo , Ryu Hosihn , Han KuemSun , Jung Hye Kwon  , Han Kyeom Kim  , Hyun Cheol Kang  , Yoon Ji-Won , Cheon Suk-Hee , Shin Hyunjeong
Published: December 2009

Suicidal ideation has been reported to be a major factor in attempted and completed suicides. The purpose of this study is to test a structural model to explain adolescent suicidal ideation. Specifically tested is the relationship between the predictor variables of trait anger, anger suppression, entrapment, psychosomatic symptoms, depression, and resilience and the dependent variable of suicidal ideation. Data are collected from a convenience sample of 11,393 students from 36 middle schools and 23 high schools in Korea. Trait anger, entrapment, psychosomatic symptoms, depression, and resilience have a direct effect on suicidal ideation whereas anger suppression shows a significant indirect effect on adolescent suicidal ideation. The predictor variables account for 39% of the variance in suicidal ideation. The study findings suggest that future programs for prevention or alleviation of adolescents’ suicidal ideation need to use interventions that facilitate their resilience and reduce their anger, entrapment feeling, psychosomatic symptoms, and depression.
Quality of Life and Sugar and Fiber Intake in Women With Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Hyo Jung Park  , Jarrett Monica , Heitkemper Margaret
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this study is to examine quality of life (QOL) and dietary constituents in three subgroups of women with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) based on the severity of their bloating symptoms. A secondary analysis of data from two studies of women with IBS ( n = 183), ages 18 to 48, is performed. Measures include the Modified Flanagan Quality of Life Scale and a 3-day food record ( n = 95) and a daily symptom diary completed over a month. There are no differences in QOL and few differences in dietary intake, although women with the most severe bloating report less dietary intake of fructose ( p = .035) as compared with the women with less severe bloating symptoms. The findings suggest that women with IBS who experience moderate to severe bloating symptoms may not reduce their dietary intake except fructose.