bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
South Australian Branch Office Opens
Authors: Lammersma Johanna
Published: November 2008

A cocktail party on 15 August 1997 marked the official opening of the Branch Office for the Sod Australian Branch of the College. many Fellow and college Many from other Colleges gathered to inspect the premises, enjoy each other's company and meet with the Executive of the College. The opening had been arranged to coincide with a visit by College president, Dr Janice Wilson, Honorary Secretary, Associate Professor Fiona Judd and Executive Director, Dr Robert Broadbent. It was a wonderful occasion and a great opportunity to meet and discuss issues with the Executive.
Social reproduction, situated politics, and The Will to Improve
Authors: Li Tania Murray
Published: November 2008

In this essay I briefly explore three themes I find important for an engaged anthropology of development. First, social reproduction: Anthropologists have a long track record of examining processes of social reproduction—how it is that particular patterns of inequality are actively sustained through practices and relations at multiple scales (Smith 1999).
International policy, development expertise, and anthropology
Authors: Mosse David
Published: November 2008

This forum article has two parts. In the first, I make some observations about policy knowledge in international development and the ways in which it has become the subject of anthropological study. In the second, I reflect on the relationship between anthropological knowledge and the development world that it describes, asking, “what’s the use of anthropology to inter- national development?”
Seed quality assessment of three photo-insensitive cultivars of lablab bean influenced by date of sowing
Authors: Alam KM Kabir , Bhuiyan MKR , Halim GMA , Zakaria M , Hossain MJ
Published: November 2008

Quality of seeds of three cultivars (IPSA Seem-2, BU Seem-3 and IPSA Seem-5) of lablab bean (Lablab purpureus L. Sweet) collected from crops planted in three different dates (15 May, 15 July, and 15 September 2003) was assessed in respect of different parameters. The maximum percentage of seeds of cv. IPSA Seem-2 was germinated (95.67) whereas, BU Seem-3 had the maximum electrical conductivity (EC) (316.06 Î¼s/cm) followed by IPSA Seem-5 (261.53 Î¼s/cm). The cv. IPSA Seem-2 also had the highest vigour index (VI) (65.04) and coefficient of germination (CG) (58.90). The maximum length of root and shoot was 13.73 cm and 12.98 cm in IPSA Seem-5 and IPSA Seem-2, respectively. The percentage of dry matter of root and shoot was the highest for BU Seem-3 (23.68 and 12.15, respectively), whereas, the composite sample of root and shoot of IPSA Seem-2 had the highest value of dry matter (14.54%). Seeds of September planted crops had better germination percentage (95.67), VI (50.07), CG (47.65), length of root (13.63 cm), dry matter of root (24.79%), shoot (13.34%) and composite sample (15.14%). Whereas, seeds of May planted crops had the maximum EC (388.23 Î¼s/cm) and length of shoot (15.29 cm). Seeds of cv. IPSA Seem-2 collected from September planted crops had the maximum germination percentage (97.75), VI (70.96), CG (64.13), length of shoot (11.41 cm) and dry matter percentage of composite sample of root and shoot (16.58). BU Seem-3 of May planted crops had the maximum EC (469.78 Î¼s/cm). But BU Seem-3 of September planting had the highest dry matter of root of seedling (25.19%). Seedlings of cv. IPSA Seem-5 planted in September had the highest length of roots (14.63 cm) and dry matter of shoot (13.79%). Key Words: Seed quality, photo-insensitive, dates of planting and lablab bean. doi:10.3329/bjar.v33i3.1597 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 33(3) : 381-389, September 2008
Returns to investment on research and development of soil borne disease management strategy for brinjal in Bangladesh
Authors: Akter Mahmuda , Miah MA Monayem , Hossain MI
Published: November 2008

The study estimated the economic returns to the past investment on the development of two 1PM practices for controlling soil borne diseases in brinjal cultivation in Bangladesh. Economic surplus model with ex-post analysis was used to estimate returns to investment. The study showed that about 20.10% more brinjal production was made available due to adoption of IPM practices (i.e. use of poultry refuse and mustard oilcake) during 2002-2003. The yields of brinjal under IPM practices were 33% and 34% higher, respectively, over the non-IPM practices. Internal rate of return (IRR), net present value (NPV) and benefit cost ratio (BCR) of the past investments were estimated at 26%, Tk. 436.21 million and 3.0, respectively. Under various assumptions on cost and return, the IRR ranged from 20 to 32% and BCR ranged from 2 to 5. The investment in research and development of 1PM practices for managing soil born diseases in brinjal cultivation was found to be very efficient. Key Words: Brinjal, soil borne disease, producer surplus, consumer surplus, ex-post analysis, returns to investment, internal rate of return, net present value doi:10.3329/bjar.v33i3.1605 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 33(3) : 459-468, September 2008
ANALYSIS OF REPAIRED GAS TURBINE AND COMPRESSOR BLADES
Authors: Tishkunov Alexander , Gluhihs Sergejs , Korjakins Aleksandrs , Popovs Andris
Published: November 2008

In order to reach desired levels of efficiency and power output of jet engines, advanced gas turbine and compressor blades made from Ti‐6AL‐4V alloy operate at very high temperatures (up to 600°C) and speeds (up to 10000 rpm) [3–4]. Pressure of springing streams and inertial forces are main reasons of stress appearance in the blades. Besides that, blade usually could be out of action after one's edges had become damaged under temperature or foreign object hit negative influence. High cycle fatigue (HCF) accounts for 56 % of major aircraft engine failures and ultimately limits the service life of most critical rotating components. Extensive inspection and maintenance programs have been developed to detect, renew and replace defected blades, to avoid catastrophic engine failure. Various modern technologies including laser cladding (filling layers of sprayed material) allow prolongation of blades’ life by damaged part's renovation with alternate material. The general aim of the present work concludes of blades’ mechanical bahavour comparison before and after renewal.

Santrauka

Šiame darbe aprašoma, kaip buvo atliekama suremontuotų turbinos ir kompresoriaus menčių atsparumo analizė. Svarbiausia buvo palyginti ekvivalentinių įtampų rezultatus iki ir po menčių renovavimo alternatyvia medžiaga. Modelių, kurie buvo suprojektuoti kompiuterine programa SolidWorks, medžiaga buvo keičiama tose darbinės mentės briaunos vietose, kur buvo galimi eksploataciniai defektai.
On the Effect of Tether Composition on cis/trans Selectivity in Intramolecular Diels–Alder Reactions
Authors: Paddon‐Row Michael N. , Longshaw Alistair I. , Willis Anthony C. , Sherburn Michael S.
Published: November 2008

Intramolecular Diels–Alder (IMDA) transition structures (TSs) and energies have been computed at the B3LYP/6‐31+G(d) and CBS‐QB3 levels of theory for a series of 1,3,8‐nonatrienes, H2CCHCHCHCH2XZCHCH2 [XZ=CH2CH2 (1); OC(O) (2); CH2C(O) (3); OCH2 (4); NHC(O) (5); SC(O) (6); OC(S) (7); NHC(S) (8); SC(S) (9)]. For each system studied (1–9), cis‐ and trans‐TS isomers, corresponding, respectively, to endo‐ and exo‐positioning of the CXZ tether with respect to the diene, have been located and their relative energies (ErelTS) employed to predict the cis/trans IMDA product ratio. Although the ErelTS values are modest (typically <3 kJ mol−1), they follow a clear and systematic trend. Specifically, as the electronegativity of the tether group X is reduced (XO→NH or S), the IMDA cis stereoselectivity diminishes. The predicted stereochemical reaction preferences are explained in terms of two opposing effects operating in the cis‐TS, namely (1) unfavorable torsional (eclipsing) strain about the C4C5 bond, that is caused by the CXC(Y) group’s strong tendency to maintain local planarity; and (2) attractive electrostatic and secondary orbital interactions between the endo‐(thio)carbonyl group, CY, and the diene. The former interaction predominates when X is weakly electronegative (XN, S), while the latter is dominant when X is more strongly electronegative (XO), or a methylene group (XCH2) which increases tether flexibility. These predictions hold up to experimental scrutiny, with synthetic IMDA reactions of 1, 2, 3, and 4 (published work) and 5, 6, and 8 (this work) delivering ratios close to those calculated. The reactions of thiolacrylate 5 and thioamide 8 represent the first examples of IMDA reactions with tethers of these types. Our results point to strategies for designing tethers, which lead to improved cis/trans‐selectivities in IMDAs that are normally only weakly selective. Experimental verification of the validity of this claim comes in the form of fumaramide 14, which undergoes a more trans‐selective IMDA reaction than the corresponding ester tethered precursor 13.
Secondary motoneurons in juvenile and adult zebrafish: Axonal pathfinding errors caused by embryonic nicotine exposure
Authors: Menelaou Evdokia , Svoboda Kurt R.
Published: November 2008

Nicotine is a drug of abuse that has been reported to have many adverse effects on the developing nervous system. We previously demonstrated that embryonic exposure to nicotine alters axonal pathfinding of spinal secondary motoneurons in zebrafish. We hypothesize that these changes will persist into adulthood. TheTg(isl1:GFP) line of zebrafish, which expresses green fluorescent protein (GFP) in a subtype of spinal secondary motoneurons, was used to investigate potential long‐term consequences of nicotine exposure on motoneuron development. Anatomical characterization ofTg(isl1:GFP) zebrafish ranging between 3 and 30 days postfertilization (dpf) was initially performed in fixed tissue to characterize axonal trajectories in larval and juvenile fish.Tg(isl1:GFP) embryos were transiently exposed to 5–30 μM nicotine. They were then rescued from nicotine and raised into later stages of life (3–30 dpf) and fixed for microscopic examination. Morphological analysis revealed that nicotine‐induced abnormalities in secondary motoneuron anatomy were still evident in juvenile fish. Live imaging ofTg(isl1:GFP) zebrafish using fluorescent stereomicroscopy revealed that the nicotine‐induced changes in motoneuron axonal pathfinding persisted into adulthood. We detected abnormalities in 37‐dpf fish that were transiently exposed to nicotine as embryos. These fish were subsequently imaged over a 7‐week period of time until they were ≈3 months of age. These pathfinding errors of spinal secondary motoneuron axons detected at 37 dpf persisted within the same fish until 86 dpf, the latest age analyzed. These findings indicate that exposure to nicotine during embryonic development can have permanent consequences for motoneuron anatomy in zebrafish. J. Comp. Neurol. 512:305–322, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrasensitive Voltammetric Detection of Trace Lead(II) and Cadmium(II) Using MWCNTs‐Nafion/Bismuth Composite Electrodes
Authors: Xu He , Zeng Liping , Xing Sujie , Xian Yuezhong , Shi Guoyue , Jin Litong
Published: November 2008

Multiwall carbon nanotubes were dispersed in Nafion (MWCNTs‐NA) solution and used in combination with bismuth (MWCNTs‐NA/Bi) for fabricating composite sensors to determine trace Pb(II) and Cd(II) by differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV). The electrochemical properties of the MWCNTs‐NA/Bi composites film modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) were evaluated. The synergistic effect of MWCNTs and bismuth composite film was obtained for Pb(II) and Cd(II) detection with improved sensitivity and reproducibility. Linear calibration curves ranged from 0.05 to 100 μg/L for Pb(II) and 0.08 to 100 μg/L for Cd(II). The determination limits (S/N=3) were 25 ng/L for Pb and 40 ng/L for Cd, which compared favorably with previously reported methods in the area of electrochemical Pb(II) and Cd(II) detection. The MWCNTs‐NA/Bi composite film electrodes were successfully applied to determine Pb(II) and Cd(II) in real sample, and the results of the present method agreed well with those of atomic absorption spectroscopy.
Sm3+ Potentiometric Membrane Sensor as a Probe for Determination of Some Pharmaceutics
Authors: Ganjali Mohammad Reza , Memari Zahra , Faridbod Farnoush , Dinarvand Rassoul , Norouzi Parviz
Published: November 2008

The increase use of ion sensors in the fields of environmental, agricultural, and medical analysis is stimulating analytical chemists to develop new sensors for fast, accurate, reproducible, and selective determination of various ions. In this study a new samarium membrane sensor was constructed and for the first time, it was applied as a probe in indirect determination of hyoscine, homatropine, and tramadol drugs in their pharmaceutical formulation. The proposed membrane sensor was constructed based on a membrane containing 2% sodium tetraphenyl borate (NaTPB) as an anionic additive, 63% dibutyl phthalate (DBP) as solvent mediator, 5% ionophore, and 30% poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). The proposed Sm(III) electrode exhibits a Nernstian response of 19.35±0.2 mV per decade of samarium concentration, and has a lower detection limit of 1.0×10−7 M. The linear range of the sensors was 1.0×10−7–1.0×10−1 M. It works well in the pH range of 3.0–8.0.
c‐Jun blocks cell differentiation but not growth inhibition or apoptosis of chronic myelogenous leukemia cells induced by STI571 and by histone deacetylase inhibitors
Authors: Huang Huei‐Mei , Liu Juo‐Chuan
Published: November 2008

The constitutively active Bcr‐Abl tyrosine kinase plays a crucial role in chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) pathogenesis. The Bcr‐Abl protein induces the upregulation of proto‐oncogene c‐Jun, which is involved in Bcr‐Abl transforming activity in Bcr‐Abl positive cells. Recent studies reported that c‐Jun inhibited hemoglobin synthesis in human CML cell line K562. However, c‐Jun also plays a critical role in cell proliferation and apoptosis. In this study, we investigated the physiological roles of c‐Jun in cell proliferation, apoptosis and erythroid differentiation of K562 cells. Firstly, we generated K562 cell lines stably overexpressing c‐Jun. These clones have the same proliferation rate as the parental cell line in general culture medium. Endogenous c‐Jun expression was analyzed to determine the effective concentration of STI571 for inhibiting Bcr‐Abl signaling. Western blots show that STI571 inhibited c‐Jun expression in a dose‐dependent manner, reaching a maximum inhibition at 1 µM. STI571 could inhibit c‐Jun expression in K562 cells, but not in c‐Jun‐overexpression cells. c‐Jun did not alter growth inhibition and apoptotic induction by STI571 treatment, but inhibited STI571‐induced erythroid differentiation. Moreover, c‐Jun did not alter growth inhibition and apoptotic induction by histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors (apicidin, sodium butyrate, and MS275) treatment, but inhibited HDAC inhibitors‐induced erythroid differentiation. These results suggest that c‐Jun may modulate anticancer drugs‐induced cell differentiation but not growth inhibition and apoptosis in CML cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 218: 568–574, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Human embryonic stem cells and cardiac cell fate
Authors: Nury David , Neri Tui , Pucéat Michel
Published: November 2008

Human embryonic stem (HES) cells are pluripotent and give rise to any cell lineage. More specifically, how the first embryonic lineage (i.e., cardiac lineage) is acquired remains in many aspects questionable. Herein, we summarize the protocols that have been used to direct the fate of HES cells toward the cardiomyocytic lineage. We further discuss the regulation of transcriptional pathways underlying this process of differentiation. Finally, we propose perspectives of this research in the near future. J. Cell. Physiol. 218: 455–459, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CRF1 receptor splicing in epidermal keratinocytes: Potential biological role and environmental regulations
Authors: Zmijewski Michal A. , Slominski Andrzej T.
Published: November 2008

Corticotropin releasing factor receptor type 1 (CRF1), a coordinator of the body responses to stress, is also expressed in human skin, where it undergoes alternative splicing. Since the epidermis is continuously exposed to the environmental stress, human keratinocytes were chosen to study the biological role of CRF1 alternative splicing. The expression pattern of CRF1 isoforms depended on cell density, presence or absence of serum, and exposure to ultraviolet irradiation (UVR). Only two isoforms α and c were predominantly localized to the cell membrane, with only CRF1α being efficient in stimulating cAMP responding element (CRE). CRF1d, f and g had intracellular localization, showing no or very low (g) activation of CRE. The co‐expression of CRF1α with d, f or g resulted in intracellular retention of both isoforms suggesting dimerization confirmed by detection of high molecular weight complexes. The soluble isoforms e and h were diffusely distributed in the cytoplasm or localized to the ER, respectively, and additionally found in culture medium. These findings suggest that alternatively spliced CRF1 isoforms can interact and modify CRF1α subcellular localization, thus affecting its activity. We suggest that alternative splicing of CRF1 may play an important role in the regulation of skin cell phenotype with potential implications in pathology. J. Cell. Physiol. 218: 593–602, 2009. Published 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Imparting Ultra‐Low Friction and Wear Rate to Epoxy by the Incorporation of Microencapsulated Lubricant?
Authors: Guo Qing Bing , Lau Kin Tak , Zheng Bing Fa , Rong Min Zhi , Zhang Ming Qiu
Published: November 2008

The incorporation of microcapsules containing lubricant oil into epoxy composites leads to materials with ultra‐low friction and wear performance. During sliding wear tests, the capsules are damaged by the asperities of the counterface, releasing the oil to the contact area. The lubrication effect of the released oil and the entrapment of wear particles in the cavities left by the ruptured capsules leads to a significant reduction of both the frictional coefficient and the specific wear rate. The approach provides the merits of fluid lubrication but excludes the drawbacks of external lubrication. A minute amount of lubricant oil is sufficient to improve the tribological properties significantly.

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Modeling the Interactions between Membranes and Inclusions: Designing Self‐Cleaning Films and Resealing Pores
Authors: Balazs Anna C. , Kuksenok Olga , Alexeev Alexander
Published: November 2008

The design of responsive membranes whose interactions with inclusions can be controlled through the application of an external stimulus is reviewed with the aim to establish guidelines for introducing functionality into the materials. For a photo‐reactive AB membrane, we find that a gradient in light intensity can be harnessed to clean the system of any C “impurities”, or target the delivery of C to specific locations. By modeling the interactions between a lipid bilayer and Janus nanoparticles, we design a synthetic membrane with stable pores that can be controllably opened and closed. This leads to design rules for creating nanoparticle‐bilayer assemblies where the pores open and the cargo is released only when local environmental conditions reach a critical value.

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An update on products and mechanisms of lipid peroxidation
Authors: Schneider Claus
Published: November 2008

The free radical reaction of polyunsaturated fatty acids with molecular oxygen leads to hydroperoxides as the first stable products. From linoleic acid the two conjugated diene hydroperoxides at carbons 9 and 13 were considered the only primary products until the recent discovery of the bis‐allylic 11‐hydroperoxide. The 11‐carbon is the site of the initial hydrogen abstraction, and the 11‐hydroperoxide is formed without isomerization of the 9,10 and 12,13 cis double bonds. In the autoxidation reaction, bis‐allylic hydroperoxides are obtained only in the presence of an efficient antioxidant, for example, α‐tocopherol. The antioxidant functions as a hydrogen atom donor, necessary to trap the fleeting bis‐allylic peroxyl radical intermediate as the hydroperoxide. Understanding of the mechanism of formation of bis‐allylic hydroperoxides has led to increased appreciation of the central role of the intermediate peroxyl radical in determining the outcome of lipid peroxidation.
First trimester intact hCG as an early marker of trisomy 21: a promise unrecognised?
Authors: Spencer Kevin , Cowans Nicholas J. , Uldbjerg Niels , Vereecken Annie , Tørring Niels
Published: November 2008

Background

An initial study of trisomy 21 cases showed that prior to 10 weeks, maternal serum levels of intact hCG in the early first trimester are lower than normal. Here we further study the levels prior to and after 10 weeks of gestation to further establish whether or not the intact hCG is effective as a very early screening marker.

Methods

Fifty‐nine samples from pregnancies with trisomy 21 were identified, 31 were collected between the sixth and ninth weeks of gestation and 28 after the tenth week. A series of 629 gestational age‐matched samples collected during the same period formed the control group. Intact hCG was measured by a DELFIA assay.

Results

The multiples of the median (MoM) in cases (n = 31) collected prior to 10 weeks were 0.79 (CI 0.62–0.98) at a median gestation of 9.1 weeks. Prior to 9 weeks (n = 14) the median was 0.774 (CI 0.54–1.09) at a median gestation of 8.5 weeks. Modelling the detection rate for a 3 or 5% false‐positive rate when screening using intact hCG, free β‐hCG and PAPP‐A at 8–10 weeks of gestation indicated that 71 or 77% of cases would be detected.

Conclusion

More data are needed to establish a secure MoM for intact hCG in pregnancies prior to 10 weeks, before it could be considered a suitable screening marker. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessing non‐normally distributed processes by interval estimation of the incapability index Cpp
Authors: Ke J.‐C. , Chu Y.‐K. , Chung Y.‐T. , Lin P. C.
Published: November 2008

Process capability indices have been widely used in the manufacturing industry. While most studies consider estimation of capability indices for normal processes, comparatively little is known about their behavior in non‐normal settings. Greenwich and Jahr‐Schaffrath (Int. J. Qual. Reliab. Manage. 1995; 12:58–71) introduced the incapability index Cpp to evaluate processes. In this paper, we explore the interval estimation of the incapability index Cpp for non‐normally distributed processes by utilizing seven feasible methods. We further develop an efficient criterion, which is relative coverage, to evaluate the performance of the seven methods. Detailed discussion of simulation results for six non‐normally distributed processes is presented. The results display that the bootstrap pivotal method developed by Wasserman (All of Statistics: A Concise Course in Statistical Inference. Springer Science, Business Media, Inc., 2004) is the best feasible method to estimate Cpp. An example is also demonstrated to illustrate how the method may be used in practice. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lipid and Phospholipid Profiling of Biological Samples Using MALDI Fourier Transform Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Batoy S. Mariccor A. B. , Borgmann Sabine , Flick Karin , Griffith Josephine , Jones Jeffrey J. , Saraswathi Viswanathan , Hasty Alyssa H. , Kaiser Peter , Wilkins Charles L.
Published: November 2008

Here we describe a study of the feasibility of lipid and phospholipid (PL) profiling using matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) Fourier transform mass spectrometry (FTMS) for two different applications. In this work PL profiles of different mammalian tissues as well as those of whole cell organisms were examined. In particular, comparative analysis of lipid and PL profiles of tissues from mice fed different diets was done and, in another application, MALDI FTMS was used to analyze PL profiles of genetically modified Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Computational sorting of the observed ions was done in order to group the lipid and PL ions from complex MALDI spectra. The PL profiles of liver tissues from mice fed different diets showed a cross correlation coefficient of 0.2580, indicating significant dissimilarity, and revealed more than 30 significantly different peaks at the 99.9% confidence level. Histogram plots derived from the spectra of wild type and genetically modified yeast resulted in a cross correlation coefficient 0.8941 showing greater similarity, but still revealing a number of significantly different peaks. Based on these results, it appears possible to use MALDI FTMS to identify PLs as potential biomarkers for metabolic processes in whole cells and tissues.
Error estimates on homogenization of free boundary velocities in periodic media
Authors: Kim Inwon C.
Published: November 2008

In this paper we consider a free boundary problem which describes contact angle dynamics on inhomogeneous surface. We obtain an estimate on convergence rate of the free boundaries to the homogenization limit in periodic media. The method presented here also applies to more general class of free boundary problems with oscillating boundary velocities.
Pharmacotherapy according to treatment guidelines is associated with lower mortality in a community‐based sample of patients with chronic heart failure A prospective cohort study
Authors: Störk Stefan , Hense Hans Werner , Zentgraf Claudia , Uebelacker Iris , Jahns Roland , Ertl Georg , Angermann Christiane E.
Published: November 2008

Background:

The effectiveness of chronic heart failure (CHF) pharmacotherapy in unselected cohorts is unknown.

Aims:

To estimate the association between quality of CHF pharmacotherapy and all‐cause mortality risk.

Methods and results:

In a prospective cohort study, 1054 unselected patients with CHF (61% with reduced and 39% with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)) were consecutively enrolled. Quality of pharmacotherapy was assessed by calculating a guideline adherence indicator (GAI‐3, range 0–100%) based on prescription of beta blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor II type‐1 blockers, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists. Median follow‐up in survivors was 595 days (100% complete). In patients with reduced LVEF the median GAI‐3 was 67%, and inversely associated with age, CHF severity, and important comorbidities. Mortality rates in GAI‐3 categories low/medium/high were 79/30/11 per 100 person‐years. In multivariable Cox regression, high GAI‐3 was independently predictive of lower mortality risk: hazard ratio (HR) 0.50 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.32–0.74; P<0.001) vs low GAI‐3. This association was also observed in subgroups of high age (HR 0.42, 95%CI 0.27–0.66; P<0.001) and women (HR 0.42, 95%CI 0.23–0.79; P=0.007).

Conclusions:

In this community‐based cohort with CHF, better implementation of pharmacotherapy was associated with better prognosis in patients with reduced LVEF, irrespective of age and sex.
Influence of coronary artery disease and coronary revascularization status on outcomes in patients with acute heart failure syndromes: A report from OPTIMIZE‐HF (Organized Program to Initiate Lifesaving Treatment in Hospitalized Patients with Heart Failure)*
Authors: Rossi Joseph S. , Flaherty James D. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Nunez Eduardo , Gattis Stough Wendy , Abraham William T. , Albert Nancy M. , Greenberg Barry H. , O'Connor Christopher M. , Yancy Clyde W. , Young James B. , Davidson Charles J. , Gheorghiade Mihai
Published: November 2008

Background:

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is frequent among patients hospitalized with acute heart failure syndromes (AHFS).

Aims:

To describe the influence of coronary revascularization status on survival in patients with AHFS.

Methods and results:

OPTIMIZE‐HF enrolled 48,612 patients with AHFS from 259 U.S. hospitals. In‐hospital data were obtained for all patients and post‐discharge 60–90 day follow‐up in a pre‐specified 10% sample. CAD was associated with higher in‐hospital (3.7% vs. 2.9%, OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.00–1.31) and post‐discharge mortality (9.2% vs. 6.9%, HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.03–1.81) compared to no CAD. Post‐discharge, patients with CAD who were not revascularized had higher mortality compared to patients without CAD (10.6% vs. 6.9%, HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.15–2.11). This association was similar in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction (EF <40%, adjusted HR 1.52, 95% CI 0.98–2.35) and preserved systolic function (EF ≥40%, adjusted HR1.58, 95% CI 1.05–2.39). Patients with CAD who were revascularized had similar mortality to patients without CAD (HR 1.06, 95% CI 0.62–1.80 for PSF, HR 1.13, 95% CI 0.71–1.80 for LVSD).

Conclusions:

In AHFS, patients with CAD have a higher 60–90 day post‐discharge mortality compared to no‐CAD patients. However, patients with CAD who are revascularized appear to have similar post‐discharge mortality when compared to the no‐CAD group. This suggests that revascularization status may confer a survival advantage in this high risk population.
A 3D‐investigation shows that angiogenesis in primate cerebral cortex mainly occurs at capillary level
Authors: Risser Laurent , Plouraboué Franck , Cloetens Peter , Fonta Caroline
Published: November 2008

This paper describes the use of a new 3D high‐resolution imaging technique dedicated to functional vessels for a systematic quantitative study of angiogenesis in the primate cortex. We present a new method which permits, using synchrotron X‐ray micro‐tomography imaging, the identification of micro‐vascular components as well as their automatic numerical digitalization and extraction from very large 3D image analysis and post‐treatments. This method is used to analyze various levels of micro‐vascular organization and their postnatal modifications. Comparing newborn‐ and adult marmosets, we found an increase in vascular volume (270%), exchange surface (260%) and vessel length (290%) associated to a decrease in distances between vessel and tissue (32%). The increase in relative vascular volumes between the two ages, examined through the whole cortical depth, has been found to be mainly sustained by events occurring at the capillary level, and only marginally at the perforating vessel level. This work shows that the postnatal cortical maturation classically described in terms of synaptogenesis, gliogenesis and connectivity plasticity is accompanied by an intensive remodeling of micro‐vascular patterns.
Cerebral DARPP‐32 expression after methylphenidate administration in young and adult rats
Authors: Souza Renan P. , Soares Eliane C. , Rosa Daniela V.F. , Souza Bruno R. , Gomes Karin M. , Valvassori Samira S. , Réus Gislaine Z. , Inácio Cecília G. , Martins Márcio R. , Gomez Marcus V. , Quevedo João , Romano‐Silva Marco A.
Published: November 2008

Dopamine may alter the phosphorylation state of DARPP‐32 that plays a central role in the dopaminergic neurons biology. Studies have shown that DARPP‐32/protein phosphatase 1 cascade is a major target for psychostimulants drugs. Methylphenidate is a psychostimulant that acts blocking the dopamine transporter has been used as an effective treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. We investigated if methylphenidate could alter DARPP‐32 expression in five brain regions (striatum, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, cortex and cerebellum) in young and adult rats.

Our results showed that methylphenidate treatment is able to alter DARPP‐32 expression in rat brain. Acute methylphenidate treatment has reduced hippocampal DARPP‐32 protein levels in old rats, while chronic methylphenidate treatment has decreased them in old rat hippocampus and young rat cerebellum. It was found an increased cortical expression after chronic methylphenidate administration in old rats. Our results provide the first experimental demonstration that methylphenidate induces changes in total DARPP‐32 expression that are posology‐ and age‐related in some rat brain areas, although further studies are needed to shed more light on the mechanisms behind these findings.
To breed or not to breed? Empirical evaluation of drug effects in adolescent rats
Authors: Wiley Jenny L. , Evans Rhys L.
Published: November 2008

The recent upsurge of research on adolescent rats raises the issue of the extent to which different methods of rodent procurement might affect results. Here, we examined the effects of acute and repeated dosing with two antipsychotics, haloperidol and clozapine, and Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol [Experiments 1 and 2, respectively] in adolescent rats of both sexes that differed in shipping status (i.e., shipped from a commercial breeder at weaning or bred in‐house). In each experiment, test drugs produced effects that were characteristic for their respective classes in previous studies with adult rodents. Both haloperidol and clozapine produced catalepsy and haloperidol decreased locomotion in shipped and bred rats of both sexes, with sensitization to haloperidol‐induced catalepsy developing with repeated dosing. The most prominent between‐status difference in this experiment was greater sensitivity of the shipped rats to haloperidol‐induced changes in locomotor activity over a wider dose range, an effect that was especially evident in females. In Experiment 2, vehicle levels of motor activity were decreased in bred rats (which did not occur in Experiment 1), resulting in flattening of the Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol dose–effect curve for this measure in bred rats of each sex. Acutely, Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol produced antinociception, hypothermia and catalepsy in both groups of rats, with tolerance developing after repeated dosing. Status‐related differences were sex‐dependent. Whereas bred female rats were more sensitive to Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol's antinociceptive effects, shipped male rats were more sensitive to its antinociceptive effects as well as to its hypothermic and cataleptic effects. Together, the results of these descriptive experiments suggest that between‐status differences tend to be quantitative rather than qualitative. Further, these results suggest that careful attention to issues related to rodent procurement during adolescence is warranted and may help to account for divergent findings in different labs.
Thyroid tubercle of Zuckerkandl: anatomical and surgical experience from 79 thyroidectomies
Authors: Page C , Cuvelier P , Biet A , Boute P , Laude M , Strunski V
Published: November 2008

Objective:

To highlight a poorly known anatomical variation of the lateral lobe of the thyroid gland, which can be useful in identifying the recurrent laryngeal nerve during thyroid surgery.

Materials and methods:

We performed a three-year prospective study of 79 thyroid surgery patients. Great attention was paid to anatomical variations of the thyroid gland (i.e. the presence or absence of a distinct tubercle of Zuckerkandl), the recurrent laryngeal nerve and the location of the parathyroid glands.

Results:

A total of 71 right lobectomies and 74 left lobectomies were performed. Five tubercles of Zuckerkandl were identified (7.04 per cent of cases) and were useful in detecting the recurrent laryngeal nerve (but only on the right side).

Conclusion:

The tubercle of Zuckerkandl is a poorly known and variable anatomical feature of the thyroid gland which may not, in fact, be so rare. It arises for embryological reasons, and it can be a reliable anatomical landmark for identifying the recurrent laryngeal nerve during thyroid surgery. It should be included in the Nomina Anatomica as the ‘processus posterior glandulae thyroideae’ described by Zuckerkandl.
Pragmatic differentiation in early trilingual development
Authors: MONTANARI SIMONA
Published: November 2008

This study examines pragmatic differentiation in early trilingual development through a longitudinal analysis of language choice in a developing Tagalog–Spanish–English trilingual child. The child's patterns of language choice with different language users are analyzed at age 1 ; 10 and 2 ; 4 to examine: (1) whether evidence for pragmatic differentiation can be found even before age two and in simultaneous interactions with distinct language users; (2) whether lexical gaps determine the child's choice of one language over another; and (3) whether her patterns of language choice are affected by the interlocutors language use and their responses to mixing. The results indicate that the child was capable of selecting the appropriate language according to the interlocutors' language from the earliest sessions. However, switches to inappropriate languages were common due to vocabulary gaps, the interlocutors' acceptance of mixing and the possibilities determined by the existence of multiple lexical resources and multiple language users.
Associations between lexicon and grammar at the end of the second year in Finnish children
Authors: STOLT SUVI , HAATAJA LEENA , LAPINLEIMU HELENA , LEHTONEN LIISA
Published: November 2008

The emergence of grammar in relation to lexical growth was analyzed in a sample of Finnish children (N=181) at 2 ; 0. The Finnish version of the Communicative Development Inventory was used to gather information on both language domains. The onset of grammar occurred in close association with vocabulary growth. The acquisition of the nominal and verbal inflections of Finnish differed when analyzed in relation to the lexicon in which they are used: the strongest growth in the acquisition of case form types occurred when the nominal lexicon size was roughly between 50 and 250 words, whereas verb inflectional types were acquired actively from the beginning of the verb lexicon acquisition. The findings extend the previous findings of the close association between lexicon and grammar (e.g. Bates & Goodman, 1999). The results suggest that different grammatical structures display different degrees and types of lexical dependency.
Bernoulli free-boundary problems in strip-like domains and a property of permanent waves on water of finite depth
Authors: Varvaruca Eugen
Published: November 2008

We study weak solutions for a class of free-boundary problems which includes as a special case the classical problem of travelling gravity waves on water of finite depth. We show that such problems are equivalent to problems in fixed domains and study the regularity of their solutions. We also prove that in very general situations the free boundary is necessarily the graph of a function.
The gradual path to cluster simplification
Authors: McCarthy John J.
Published: November 2008

When a medial consonant cluster is simplified by deletion or place assimilation, the first consonant is affected, but never the second one: /patka/ becomes [paka] and not *[pata]; /panpa/ becomes [pampa] and not [panta]. This article accounts for that observation within a derivational version of Optimality Theory called Harmonic Serialism. In Harmonic Serialism, the final output is reached by a series of derivational steps that gradually improve harmony. If there is no gradual, harmonically improving path from a given underlying representation to a given surface representation, this mapping is impossible in Harmonic Serialism, even if it would be allowed in classic Optimality Theory. In cluster simplification, deletion or Place assimilation is the second step in a derivation that begins with deleting Place features, and deleting Place features improves harmony only in coda position.
Examining angler behavior using contingent behavior modeling: A case study of water quality change at a Wisconsin lake
Authors: Eiswerth Mark E. , Kashian Russell D. , Skidmore Mark
Published: November 2008

We use contingent behavior (CB) analysis to examine the potential impacts of a hypothetical change in the clarity of a lake. We collect and use both CB and revealed preference data to estimate a pooled negative binomial count data travel cost model. From this analysis we calculate the consumer surplus per angling party day for our case study lake to be about $104, or a total annual consumer surplus of $1.4 million. Using this consumer surplus measure and changes in the intended number of visits obtained from the CB survey, we estimate the loss in consumer surplus associated with a decline in water clarity from 10 to 3 feet (1 foot = 0.3048 m) to be about $522,000 annually (a 38% decrease). Since this is the first such application of CB analysis to estimate the effects of a water clarity change, the study may illustrate a method well suited to analyzing changes in water quality attributes that are easily observable and well understood by recreators.
Identification and tectonic implications of a tear in the South American plate at the southern end of the Lesser Antilles
Authors: Clark S. A. , Sobiesiak M. , Zelt C. A. , Magnani M. B. , Miller M. S. , Bezada M. J. , Levander A.
Published: November 2008

In the southeast corner of the Caribbean, westward subduction of (Atlantic) oceanic South America beneath the Lesser Antilles transitions to east‐west transform motion between continental South America and the Caribbean plate. This geometry requires negatively buoyant, subducting, oceanic South American lithosphere to progressively detach from positively buoyant, continental South American lithosphere. The most widely accepted model is slab break‐off, with oblique arc‐continent collision and northwest dipping, continental subduction precipitating narrow rifting in the subducting slab. In contrast, the subduction‐transform edge propagator (STEP) model conceptualizes progressive detachment along a vertical, dip‐slip tear through the lithosphere, with stress focused at the edge of the propagating transform boundary. We present four types of seismic data to resolve the ongoing lithospheric detachment: local seismicity, receiver functions, wide‐angle seismic velocity inversion, and a regional, balanced cross section constrained by petroleum industry data. These four data sets image a near‐vertical tear extending through the entire lithosphere, revealing a key mechanism for the structural evolution of Venezuela.
Statistical distribution of the fractional area affected by rain
Authors: Jeannin Nicolas , Féral Laurent , Sauvageot Henri , Castanet Laurent , Lemorton Joël
Published: November 2008

The knowledge of the fraction of an area that is affected by rain (or fractional area) is of prime interest for hydrologic studies or for rainfall field modeling. Up to now, the statistical distribution of this parameter has been poorly studied. In the present paper, a model of the statistical distribution of the fraction of an area affected by rain over a given rainfall rate is proposed. It takes into account at the same time the size of the area and the local climatology. The analytic formulation of the distribution is established, considering that rainfall fields can be obtained from a nonlinear filtering of a Gaussian random field. As the analytic derivation of the distribution lies on some assumptions, the model accuracy is first evaluated from numerical simulations. It is then shown that the model reproduces accurately the distribution of fractional areas derived from radar observations of rain fields for various rain thresholds, sizes of area, and climatologies. A generic parameterization is then proposed for areas ranging from 100 × 100 to 300 × 300 km2.
Active site substitutions delineate distinct classes of eubacterial flap endonuclease
Authors: Allen Lee M. , Hodskinson Michael R. G. , Sayers Jon R.
Published: November 2008

FENs (flap endonucleases) play essential roles in DNA replication, pivotally in the resolution of Okazaki fragments. In eubacteria, DNA PolI (polymerase I) contains a flap processing domain, the N-terminal 5′→3′ exonuclease. We present evidence of paralogous FEN-encoding genes present in many eubacteria. Two distinct classes of these independent FEN-encoding genes exist with four groups of eubacteria, being identified based on the number and type of FEN gene encoded. The respective proteins possess distinct motifs hallmarking their differentiation. Crucially, based on primary sequence and predicted secondary structural motifs, we reveal key differences at their active sites. These results are supported by biochemical characterization of two family members - ExoIX (exonuclease IX) from Escherichia coli and SaFEN (Staphylococcus aureus FEN). These proteins displayed marked differences in their ability to process a range of branched and linear DNA structures. On bifurcated substrates, SaFEN exhibited similar substrate specificity to previously characterized FENs. In quantitative exonuclease assays, SaFEN maintained a comparable activity with that reported for PolI. However, ExoIX showed no observable enzymatic activity. A threaded model is presented for SaFEN, demonstrating the probable interaction of this newly identified class of FEN with divalent metal ions and a branched DNA substrate. The results from the present study provide an intriguing model for the cellular role of these FEN sub-classes and illustrate the evolutionary importance of processing aberrant DNA, which has led to their maintenance alongside DNA PolI in many eubacteria.
Drag and wakes of freely falling 60° cones at intermediate Reynolds numbers
Authors: Yaginuma Takayuki , Itō Hidesato
Published: November 2008

The drag coefficient for freely falling cones with a vertex angle of 60° was determined experimentally in the Reynolds number range from 90 to 8×103 and described by empirical equations. The drag was determined by measurement of the terminal velocity of the cones falling through water. Flow-visualization experiments showed the different regimes of the wake structure for a wide range of the Reynolds numbers covering the successive destabilizations of the wake on the way to turbulence. Especially, a very regular staggered array of two rows of ring-shaped hairpin vortices appeared behind the cones in the Reynolds number range from 170 to 235. The Strouhal number was determined in the Reynolds number range from 170 to 1.2×103. The arrangement of the double row of vortex rings and the oscillatory motion of the cones were given in some detail.
Dynamical analysis of an intermittency in an open cavity flow
Authors: Lusseyran François , Pastur Luc , Letellier Christophe
Published: November 2008

When open flows pass an open cavity, it is known that for medium or large Reynolds numbers, self-sustained oscillations generally appear. When more than one mode is excited, some nonlinear competition between modes may occur. In the configuration investigated here, the underlying dynamics are mainly driven by two dominant modes. The interplay between these two modes is investigated using phase portraits, Poincaré sections, and return maps. The toroidal structure of the phase portrait is then investigated using a symbolic dynamics built from an angular return map. Each symbol can be associated with a specific mode and the interplay described in terms of symbolic sequences, leading to exhibit a switching mode process.