bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flow Simulations Using Two Dimensional Thermal Lattice Boltzmann Method
Authors: Almalowi Saeed J. , Oztekin Alparslan
Published: June 2012

Lattice Boltzmann method is implemented to study hydrodynamically and thermally developing steady laminar flows in a channel. Numerical simulation of two‐dimensional convective heat transfer problem is conducted using two‐dimensional, nine directional D2Q9 thermal lattice Boltzmann arrangements. The velocity and temperature profiles in the developing region predicted by Lattice Boltzmann method are compared against those obtained by ANSYS‐FLUENT. Velocity and temperature profiles as well as the skin friction and the Nusselt numbers agree very well with those predicted by the self‐similar solutions of fully developed flows. It is clearly shown here that thermal lattice Boltzmann method is an effective computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tool to study nonisothermal flow problems.
Fabrication of Bi-DopedTiO2Spheres with Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis and Investigation of Their Visible-Light Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Huang Jianhui , Cheuk Wahkit , Wu Yifan , Lee Frank S. C. , Ho Wingkei
Published: June 2012

Bismuth-doped TiO2submicrospheres were synthesized by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis. The prepared bismuth-doped titania was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Aqueous photocatalytic activity was evaluated by the decomposition of methyl orange under visible-light irradiation. The results indicate that doping of bismuth remarkably affects the phase composition, crystal structure, and the photocatalytic activity. The sample with 2% Bi exhibits the optimum photocatalytic activity.
Assessment of the Immune Responses Induced in Cattle after Inoculation of aMycobacterium bovisStrain Deleted in Twomce2Genes
Authors: Blanco Federico Carlos , Soria Marcelo , Gravisaco María José , Bianco María Verónica , Meikle Virginia , Garbaccio Sergio , Vagnoni Lucas , Cataldi Angel Adrián , Bigi Fabiana
Published: June 2012

The generation of efficient candidate vaccines against bovine tuberculosis will contribute to the control of this zoonotic disease. Rationally attenuatedMycobacterium bovisstrains generated by knockout of virulence genes are promising candidate vaccines. However, to be effective, these candidate vaccines should at least maintain the immunological properties of their virulent parentalM. bovisstrains. Therefore, the aim of this study was to obtain anM. bovisstrain deleted in themce2genes and evaluate the effect of the mutation on the immunological profile elicited by the bacteria in cattle. We showed that the activation of CD4+ T cells in cattle inoculated with the mutant strain was equivalent to that in animals inoculated with the parental strain. Moreover, after in vitro stimulation, peripheral blood mononuclear cells from animals inoculated with the mutant produced higher levels of mRNA Th-1 cytokines than the parental strain. Therefore, these results indicate that themce2mutant is a promising candidate vaccine against bovine tuberculosis.
Effect of Growth Medium pH ofAeropyrum pernixon Structural Properties and Fluidity of Archaeosomes
Authors: Ota Ajda , Gmajner Dejan , Šentjurc Marjeta , Ulrih Nataša Poklar
Published: June 2012

The influence of pH (6.0; 7.0; 8.0) of the growth medium ofAeropyrum pernixK1 on the structural organization and fluidity of archaeosomes prepared from a polar-lipid methanol fraction (PLMF) was investigated using fluorescence anisotropy and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Fluorescence anisotropy of the lipophilic fluorofore 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene and empirical correlation time of the spin probe methylester of 5-doxylpalmitate revealed gradual changes with increasing temperature for the pH. A similar effect has been observed by using the trimethylammonium-6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene, although the temperature changes were much smaller. As the fluorescence steady-state anisotropy and the empirical correlation time obtained directly from the EPR spectra alone did not provide detailed structural information, the EPR spectra were analysed by computer simulation. This analysis showed that the archaeosome membranes are heterogeneous and composed of several regions with different modes of spin-probe motion at temperatures below 70°C. At higher temperatures, these membranes become more homogeneous and can be described by only one spectral component. Both methods indicate that the pH of the growth medium ofA. pernixdoes not significantly influence its average membrane fluidity. These results are in accordance with TLC analysis of isolated lipids, which show no significant differences between PLMF isolated fromA. pernixgrown in medium with different pH.
Comparison of Two Entry Methods for Laparoscopic Port Entry: Technical Point of VIEW
Authors: Toro Adriana , Mannino Maurizio , Cappello Giovanni , Di Stefano Andrea , Di Carlo Isidoro
Published: June 2012

Laparoscopic entry is a blind procedure and it often represents a problem for all the related complications. In the last three decades, rapid advances in laparoscopic surgery have made it an invaluable part of general surgery, but there remains no clear consensus on an optimal method of entry into the peritoneal cavity. The aim of this paper is to focus on the evolution of two used methods of entry into the peritoneal cavity in laparoscopic surgery.
Multiagent-Based Data Fusion in Environmental Monitoring Networks
Authors: Dauwe Samuel , Van Renterghem Timothy , Botteldooren Dick , Dhoedt Bart
Published: June 2012

Advances in embedded systems and mobile communication have led to the emergence of smaller, cheaper, and more intelligent sensing units. As of today, these devices have been used in many sensor network applications focused at monitoring environmental parameters in areas with relative large geographical extent. However, in many of these applications, management is often centralized and hierarchical. This approach imposes some major challenges in the context of large-scale and highly distributed sensor networks. In this paper, we present a multilayered, middleware platform for sensor networks offering transparent data aggregation, control, and management mechanisms to the application developer. Furthermore, we propose the use of multiagent systems (MASs) to create a computing environment capable of managing and optimizing tasks autonomously. In order to ensure the scalability of the distributed data fusion, we propose a three-step procedure to balance the workload among machines using mobile agent technology.
Iteration and Iterative Roots of Fractional Polynomial Function
Authors: Liu Xiao-hua
Published: June 2012

Iteration is involved in the fields of dynamical systems and numerical computation and so forth. The computation of iteration is difficult for general functions (even for some simple functions such as linear fractional functions). In this paper, we discuss fractional polynomial function and use the method of conjugate similitude to obtain its expression of general iterate of ordernunder two different conditions. Furthermore, we also give iterative roots of ordernfor the function under two different conditions.
Effect of Size, Shape, and Surface Modification on Cytotoxicity of Gold Nanoparticles to Human HEp‐2 and Canine MDCK Cells
Authors: Zhang Yinan , Xu Dan , Li Wenqin , Yu Jun , Chen Yu
Published: June 2012

There have been increasing interests in applying gold nanoparticles in biological research, drug delivery, and therapy. As the interaction of gold nanoparticles with cells relies on properties of nanoparticles, the cytotoxicity is complex and still under debating. In this work, we investigate the cytotoxicity of gold nanoparticles of different encapsulations, surface charge states, sizes and shapes to both human HEp‐2 and canine MDCK cells. We found that cetyltrimethylammonium‐bromide‐ (CTAB‐) encapsulated gold nanorods (GNRs) were relatively higher cytotoxic than GNRs undergone further polymer coating and citrate stabilized gold nanospheres (GNSs). The toxicity of CTAB‐encapsulated GNRs was mainly caused by CTAB on GNRs′ surface but not free CTAB in the solution. No obvious difference was found among GNRs of different aspect ratios. Time‐lapse study revealed that cell death caused by GNRs occurred predominately within one hour through apoptosis, whereas cell death by free CTAB was in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. Both positively and negatively surface‐charged polymer‐coated GNRs (PSS‐GNRs and PAH‐PSS‐GNRs) showed similar levels of cytotoxic, suggesting the significance of surface functionality rather than surface charge in this case.
Mini-Implants in the Anchorage Armamentarium: New Paradigms in the Orthodontics
Authors: Yamaguchi Masaru , Inami Toshihiro , Ito Ko , Kasai Kazutaka , Tanimoto Yasuhiro
Published: June 2012

Paradigms have started to shift in the orthodontic world since the introduction of mini-implants in the anchorage armamentarium. Various forms of skeletal anchorage, including miniscrews and miniplates, have been reported in the literature. Recently, great emphasis has been placed on the miniscrew type of temporary anchorage device (TAD). These devices are small, are implanted with a relatively simple surgical procedure, and increase the potential for better orthodontic results. Therefore, miniscrews not only free orthodontists from anchorage-demanding cases, but they also enable clinicians to have good control over tooth movement in 3 dimensions. The miniplate type also produces significant improvements in treatment outcomes and has widened the spectrum of orthodontics. The purpose of this paper is to update clinicians on the current concepts and versatile uses and clinical applications of skeletal anchorage in orthodontics.
Large Pore Ion and Metabolite-Permeable Channel Regulation of Postnatal Ventricular Zone Neural Stem and Progenitor Cells: Interplay between Aquaporins, Connexins, and Pannexins?
Authors: Wicki-Stordeur Leigh E. , Swayne Leigh Anne
Published: June 2012

The birth of new neurons from unspecialized neural stem and progenitor cells surrounding the lateral ventricles occurs throughout postnatal life. This process, termed neurogenesis, is complex and multistepped, encompassing several types of cellular behaviours, such as proliferation, differentiation, and migration. These behaviours are influenced by numerous factors present in the unique, permissive microenvironment. A major cellular mechanism for sensing the plethora of environmental cues directing this process is the presence of different channel forming proteins spanning the plasma membrane. So-called large pore membrane channels, which are selective for the passage of specific types of small molecules and ions, are emerging as an important subgroup of channel proteins. Here, we focus on the roles of three such large pore channels, aquaporin 4, connexin 43, and pannexin 1. We highlight both their independent functions as well as the accumulating evidence for crosstalk between them.
Wii-Fit for Improving Gait and Balance in an Assisted Living Facility: A Pilot Study
Authors: Padala Kalpana P. , Padala Prasad R. , Malloy Timothy R. , Geske Jenenne A. , Dubbert Patricia M. , Dennis Richard A. , Garner Kimberly K. , Bopp Melinda M. , Burke William J. , Sullivan Dennis H.
Published: June 2012

Objectives. To determine the effects on balance and gait of a Wii-Fit program compared to a walking program in subjects with mild Alzheimer’s dementia (AD).Methods. A prospective randomized (1 : 1) pilot study with two intervention arms was conducted in an assisted living facility with twenty-two mild AD subjects. In both groups the intervention occurred under supervision for 30 minutes daily, five times a week for eight weeks. Repeated measures ANOVA and pairedt-tests were used to analyze changes.Results. Both groups showed improvement in Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Tinetti Test (TT) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) over 8 weeks. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups over time. Intragroup analysis in the Wii-Fit group showed significant improvement on BBS (P=0.003), and TT (P=0.013). The walking group showed a trend towards improvement on BBS (P=0.06) and TUG (P=0.07) and significant improvement in TT (P=0.006).Conclusion. This pilot study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of Wii-Fit in an assisted living facility in subjects with mild AD. Use of Wii-Fit resulted in significant improvements in balance and gait comparable to those in the robust monitored walking program. These results need to be confirmed in a larger, methodologically sound study.
Influence of Alkaline Treatment with Ammonia Water on the Properties of PEDOT: PSS Films
Authors: Li Jiao , Zhang Hua , Liu Juncheng , Qi Hui
Published: June 2012

A study on the influence of alkaline treatment on the properties of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT: PSS) film is presented in this paper. The treatment is carried out using ammonia water (AW) solutions with various volumes. We have also examined the performance of organic solar cells (OSCs) with the undoped and AW-doped PEDOT:PSS layers. Results show that the acidity of PEDOT:PSS solution can be significantly reduced by adding the AW solution with the optimized volume ratio ≤9%, v/v, while the AW-doped PEDOT:PSS film shows an improved optical transmission and stabilized conductivity. However, compared to the pristine OSC without adding AW to the whole-extraction layer, the AW-doped OSC shows a slight degradation in the power conversion efficiency (from 2.12% to 2.02%), which has been attributed to the decreasedVocand FF of devices after the addition of AW.
The Neurological Complications of Nutritional Deficiency following Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Becker Danielle A. , Balcer Laura J. , Galetta Steven L.
Published: June 2012

Neurologic complications of bariatric surgery have become increasingly recognized with the rising numbers of procedures and the increasing prevalence of obesity in the US. Deficits are most commonly seen with thiamine, vitamin B12, folate, vitamin D, vitamin E, and copper deficiencies. The neurological findings observed with these nutritional deficiencies are variable and include encephalopathy, optic neuropathy, myelopathy, polyradiculoneuropathy, and polyneuropathy. We review the neurological complications of bariatric surgery and emphasize that these findings may vary based on the specific type of bariatric surgery and time elapsed from the procedure.
Can Social Functioning in Schizophrenia Be Improved through Targeted Social Cognitive Intervention?
Authors: Roberts David L. , Velligan Dawn I.
Published: June 2012

Efforts to use cognitive remediation in psychosocial intervention for schizophrenia have increasingly incorporated social cognition as a treatment target. A distinction can be made in this work between “broad-based” interventions, which integrate social cognitive training within a multicomponent suite of intervention techniques and “targeted” interventions; which aim to enhance social cognition alone. Targeted interventions have the potential advantage of being more efficient than broad-based interventions; however, they also face difficult challenges. In particular, targeted interventions may be less likely to achieve maintenance and generalization of gains made in treatment. A novel potential solution to this problem is described which draws on the social psychological literature on social cognition.
An Adaptive Amplifier System for Wireless Sensor Network Applications
Authors: Lovay Mónica , Peretti Gabriela , Romero Eduardo , Marqués Carlos
Published: June 2012

This paper presents an adaptive amplifier that is part of a sensor node in a wireless sensor network. The system presents a target gain that has to be maintained without direct human intervention despite the presence of faults. In addition, its bandwidth must be as large as possible. The system is composed of a software‐based built‐in self‐test scheme implemented in the node that checks all the available gains in the amplifiers, a reconfigurable amplifier, and a genetic algorithm (GA) for reconfiguring the node resources that runs on a host computer. We adopt a PSoC device from Cypress for the node implementation. The performance evaluation of the scheme presented is made by adopting four different types of fault models in the amplifier gains. The fault simulation results show that GA finds the target gain with low error, maintains the bandwidth above the minimum tolerable bandwidth, and presents a runtime lower than exhaustive search method.
Getting Real: A Naturalistic Methodology for Using Smartphones to Collect Mediated Communications
Authors: Tossell Chad C. , Kortum Philip , Shepard Clayton W. , Rahmati Ahmad , Zhong Lin
Published: June 2012

This paper contributes an intentionally naturalistic methodology using smartphone logging technology to study communications in the wild. Smartphone logging can provide tremendous access to communications data from real environments. However, researchers must consider how it is employed to preserve naturalistic behaviors. Nine considerations are presented to this end. We also provide a description of a naturalistic logging approach that has been applied successfully to collecting mediated communications from iPhones. The methodology was designed to intentionally decrease reactivity and resulted in data that were more accurate than self-reports. Example analyses are also provided to show how data collected can be analyzed to establish empirical patterns and identify user differences. Smartphone logging technologies offer flexible capabilities to enhance access to real communications data, but methodologies employing these techniques must be designed appropriately to avoid provoking naturally occurring behaviors. Functionally, this methodology can be applied to establish empirical patterns and test specific hypotheses within the field of HCI research. Topically, this methodology can be applied to domains interested in understanding mediated communications such as mobile content and systems design, teamwork, and social networks.
The Improvement of Reliability of High-k/Metal Gate pMOSFET Device with Various PMA Conditions
Authors: Yang Yi-Lin , Zhang Wenqi , Cheng Chi-Yun , Yeh Wen-kuan
Published: June 2012

The oxygen and nitrogen were shown to diffuse through the TiN layer in the high-k/metal gate devices during PMA. Both the oxygen and nitrogen annealing will reduce the gate leakage current without increasing oxide thickness. The threshold voltages of the devices changed with various PMA conditions. The reliability of the devices, especially for the oxygen annealed devices, was improved after PMA treatments.
Joint Angles and Mutual Coupling Estimation Algorithm for Bistatic MIMO Radar
Authors: Li Jianfeng , Zhang Xiaofei
Published: June 2012

We study the problem of angle estimation for a bistatic multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar with unknown mutual coupling and proposed a joint algorithm for angles and mutual coupling estimation with the characteristics of uniform linear arrays and subspaces exploitation. We primarily obtain an initial estimate of DOA and DOD, then employ the local one-dimensional searching to estimate exactly DOA and DOD, and finally evaluate the parameters of mutual coupling coefficients via the estimated angles. Exploiting twice of the one-dimensional local searching, our method has much lower computational cost than the algorithm in (Liu and Liao (2012)), and automatically obtains the paired two-dimensional angle estimation. Slightly better performance for angle estimation has been achieved via our scheme in contrast to (Liu and Liao (2012)), while the two methods indicate very close performance of mutual coupling estimation. The simulation results verify the algorithmic effectiveness of our scheme.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activities of Some New Synthesized Imide and Schiff′s Base Derivatives
Authors: Sabry Nermien M. , Flefel Eman M. , Al-Omar Mohamed A. , Amr Abd El-Galil E.
Published: June 2012

A series of 2,6‐bis(substituted thiazolopyrimi‐dinyl) pyridine (2a,b) and corresponding Schiff′s bases (3a–j) were synthesized from 2,6‐bis‐(3‐amino‐2‐methyl‐4‐oxo‐9‐substituted‐3,4‐dihydropyrido‐[30,20 : 4,5]‐thieno[3,2‐d]pyrimidin‐7‐yl)pyridines (1a,b) as starting materials. The compounds 1a,b were reacted with 2,3,4,5‐tetrachlorophthalic anhydride in glacial acetic acid to give the corresponding bis‐imides (2a,b). But they are treated with aromatic aldehydes in refluxing ethanol to afford the Schiff’s base derivatives (3a–j). The antimicrobial screening showed that many of these newly synthesized compounds had good antimicrobial activities comparable to streptomycin and fusidic acid as positive controls. The detailed synthesis, spectroscopic data, and antimicrobial activities of the synthesized compounds were reported.
Resistance of Glioblastoma-Initiating Cells to Radiation Mediated by the Tumor Microenvironment Can Be Abolished by Inhibiting Transforming Growth Factor-β
Authors: Hardee Matthew E. , Marciscano Ariel E. , Medina-Ramirez Christina M. , Zagzag David , Narayana Ashwatha , Lonning Scott M. , Barcellos-Hoff Mary Helen
Published: June 2012

The poor prognosis of glioblastoma (GBM) routinely treated with ionizing radiation (IR) has been attributed to the relative radioresistance of glioma-initiating cells (GIC). Other studies indicate that although GIC are sensitive, the response is mediated by undefined factors in the microenvironment. GBM produce abundant transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), a pleotropic cytokine that promotes effective DNA damage response. Consistent with this, radiation sensitivity, as measured by clonogenic assay of cultured murine (GL261) and human (U251, U87MG) glioma cell lines, increased by approximately 25% when treated with LY364947, a small-molecule inhibitor of TGF-β type I receptor kinase, before irradiation. Mice bearing GL261 flank tumors treated with 1D11, a pan-isoform TGF-β neutralizing antibody, exhibited significantly increased tumor growth delay following IR. GL261 neurosphere cultures were used to evaluate GIC. LY364947 had no effect on the primary or secondary neurosphere-forming capacity. IR decreased primary neurosphere formation by 28%, but did not reduce secondary neurosphere formation. In contrast, LY364947 treatment before IR decreased primary neurosphere formation by 75% and secondary neurosphere formation by 68%. Notably, GL261 neurospheres produced 3.7-fold more TGF-β per cell compared with conventional culture, suggesting that TGF-β production by GIC promotes effective DNA damage response and self-renewal, which creates microenvironment-mediated resistance. Consistent with this, LY364947 treatment in irradiated GL261 neurosphere-derived cells decreased DNA damage responses, H2AX and p53 phosphorylation, and induction of self-renewal signals, Notch1 and CXCR4. These data motivate the use of TGF-β inhibitors with radiation to improve therapeutic response in patients with GBM. Cancer Res; 72(16); 4119–29. ©2012 AACR.
Functional Interaction of Tumor Suppressor DLC1 and Caveolin-1 in Cancer Cells
Authors: Du Xiaoli , Qian Xiaolan , Papageorge Alex , Schetter Aaron J. , Vass William C. , Liu Xi , Braverman Richard , Robles Ana I. , Lowy Douglas R.
Published: June 2012

Deleted in liver cancer 1 (DLC1), a tumor suppressor gene frequently inactivated in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and other malignancies, encodes a multidomain protein with a RhoGTPase-activating (RhoGAP) domain and a StAR-related lipid transfer (START) domain. However, no interacting macromolecule has been mapped to the DLC1 START domain. Caveolin-1 (CAV-1) functions as a tumor suppressor in most contexts and forms a complex with DLC1. Here, we have mapped the region of DLC1 required for interaction with CAV-1 to the DLC1 START domain. Mutation of the DLC1 START domain disrupted the interaction and colocalization with CAV-1. Moreover, DLC1 with a START domain mutation failed to suppress neoplastic growth, although it negatively regulated active Rho. CAV-1 and DLC1 expression levels were correlated in two public datasets of NSCLC lines and in two independent publicly available mRNA expression datasets of NSCLC tumors. Clinically, low DLC1 expression predicted a poor clinical outcome in patients with lung cancer. Together, our findings indicate that complex formation between the DLC1 START domain and CAV-1 contributes to DLC1 tumor suppression via a RhoGAP-independent mechanism, and suggest that DLC1 inactivation probably contributes to cancer progression. Cancer Res; 72(17); 4405–16. ©2012 AACR.
Metronomic Activity of CD44-Targeted Hyaluronic Acid-Paclitaxel in Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Lee Sun Joo , Ghosh Sukhen C. , Han Hee Dong , Stone Rebecca L. , Bottsford-Miller Justin , Shen De Yue , Auzenne Edmond J. , Lopez-Araujo Alejandro , Lu Chunhua , Nishimura Masato , Pecot Chad V. , Zand Behrouz , Thanapprapasr Duangmani , Jennings Nicholas B , Kang Yu , Huang Jie , Hu Wei , Klostergaard Jim , Sood Anil K.
Published: June 2012

Purpose: Most primary human ovarian tumors and peritoneal implants, as well as tumor vascular endothelial cells, express the CD44 family of cell surface proteoglycans, the natural ligand for which is hyaluronic acid. Metronomic dosing, the frequent administration of chemotherapeutics at substantially lower than maximum tolerated doses (MTD), has been shown to result in reduced normal tissue toxicity and to minimize “off-treatment” exposure resulting in an improved therapeutic ratio.

Experimental Design: We tested the hypothesis that hyaluronic acid (HA) conjugates of paclitaxel (TXL; HA-TXL) would exert strong antitumor effects with metronomic (MET) dosing and induce antiangiogenic effects superior to those achieved with MTD administration or with free TXL. Female nude mice bearing SKOV3ip1 or HeyA8 ovarian cancer cells were treated intraperitoneally (i.p.) with MET HA-TXL regimens (or MTD administration) to determine therapeutic and biologic effects.

Results: All MET HA-TXL–treated mice and the MTD group revealed significantly reduced tumor weights and nodules compared with controls (all P values < 0.05) in the chemotherapy-sensitive models. However, the MTD HA-TXL–treated mice showed significant weight loss compared with control mice, whereas body weights were not affected in the metronomic groups in HeyA8-MDR model, reflecting reduced toxicity. In the taxane-resistant HeyA8-MDR model, significant reduction in tumor weight and nodule counts was noted in the metronomic groups whereas the response of the MTD group did not achieve significance. While both MTD and metronomic regimens reduced proliferation (Ki-67) and increased apoptosis (TUNEL, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated dUTP nick end labeling), only metronomic treatment resulted in significant reductions in angiogenesis (CD31, microvessel density). Moreover, metronomic treatment resulted in substantial increases in thrombospondin-1 (Tsp-1), an inhibitor of angiogenesis.

Conclusions: This study showed that MET HA-TXL regimens have substantial antitumor activity in ovarian carcinoma, likely via a predominant antiangiogenic mechanism. Clin Cancer Res; 18(15); 4114–21. ©2012 AACR.
A Pragmatic Approach Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Treat Ischemic Strokes of Unknown Onset Time in a Thrombolytic Trial
Authors: Song Shlee S. , Latour Lawrence L. , Ritter Carsten H. , Wu Ona , Tighiouart Mourad , Hernandez Daymara A. , Ku Katherine D. , Luby Marie , Warach Steven
Published: June 2012

Background and Purpose—

Toward the goal of designing a clinical trial using imaging parameters to treat stroke patients with unknown onset time, we investigated the timing of changes on MRI in patients with well-defined stroke onset.

Methods—

Hypothesis-generating (n=85) and confirmatory (n=111) samples were scored by blinded readers for fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) hyperintensity in diffusion-positive regions. Reader-measured signal intensity ratio (SIR) of the lesion to contralateral tissue was compared with SIR measured by coregistration.

Results—

Lesion conspicuity increased with time on FLAIR (
P
=0.006). Qualitative assessment of FLAIR-negative vs FLAIR hyperintensity (k=0.7091; 95% CI, 0.61–0.81) showed good interrater agreement. Subtle hyperintensity was less reliably categorized (k=0.59; 95% CI, 0.47–0.71). Reader-measured SIR <1.15 can identify patients within the treatable time window of 4.5 hours (positive predictive value=0.90). The SIR was greater for right hemisphere lesions (
P
=0.04) for a given reported time from stroke symptom onset.

Conclusion—

The SIR on FLAIR provides a quantitative tool to identify early ischemic strokes. In developing SIR thresholds, right hemisphere lesions may confound the accurate estimate of stroke onset time. Image coregistration for thrombolytic trial enrollment is not necessary. A SIR <1.15 on FLAIR yields a practical estimate of stroke onset within 4.5 hours.
Moyamoya Disease-Related Versus Primary Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Nah Hyun-Wook , Kwon Sun U. , Kang Dong-Wha , Ahn Jae-Sung , Kwun Byung-Duk , Kim Jong S.
Published: June 2012

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of our study was to compare lesion location between moyamoya disease-related intracerebral hemorrhage (MMD-ICH) and primary intracerebral hemorrhage (P-ICH).

Methods—

Ninety-three patients each with MMD-ICH and P-ICH were compared. In patients with MMD-ICH, angiographic findings were assessed with special attention to the prominent anterior choroidal artery. Follow-up data were obtained through clinical visit and telephone interview.

Results—

The location of hemorrhage was different between MMD-ICH and P-ICH, the most frequent one being intraventricular region (37.6%) in the former and putaminal region (46.2%) in the latter (
P
<0.001). Intraventricular hemorrhage was more frequent in MMD-ICH than P-ICH (80.6% versus 20.4%,
P
<0.001). In MMD-ICH, primary intraventricular hemorrhage was more closely associated with prominent ipsilateral anterior choroidal artery than ICHs without intraventricular hemorrhage (75.0% versus 16.7%,
P
<0.001). Higher rates of rebleeding and infarction were observed in MMD-ICH than in age- and sex-matched patients with P-ICH.

Conclusions—

MMD-ICH may differ from P-ICH in hemorrhage location, generally presenting with intraventricular hemorrhage with or without ICH, which may be due to a prominent anterior choroidal artery. Patients with MMD may be more likely to experience recurrent bleeding and infarction.
Telestroke Ambulances in Prehospital Stroke Management
Authors: Liman Thomas G. , Winter Benjamin , Waldschmidt Carolin , Zerbe Norman , Hufnagl Peter , Audebert Heinrich J. , Endres Matthias
Published: June 2012

Background and Purpose—

Pre- and intrahospital time delays are major concerns in acute stroke care. Telemedicine-equipped ambulances may improve time management and identify patients with stroke eligible for thrombolysis by an early prehospital stroke diagnosis. The aims of this study were (1) to develop a telestroke ambulance prototype; (2) to test the reliability of stroke severity assessment; and (3) to evaluate its feasibility in the prehospital emergency setting.

Methods—

Mobil, real-time audio–video streaming telemedicine devices were implemented into advanced life support ambulances. Feasibility of telestroke ambulances and reliability of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale assessment were tested using current wireless cellular communication technology (third generation) in a prehospital stroke scenario. Two stroke actors were trained in simulation of differing right and left middle cerebral artery stroke syndromes. National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale assessment was performed by a hospital-based stroke physician by telemedicine, by an emergency physician guided by telemedicine, and “a posteriori” on the basis of video documentation.

Results—

In 18 of 30 scenarios, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale assessment could not be performed due to absence or loss of audio–video signal. In the remaining 12 completed scenarios, interrater agreement of National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale examination between ambulance and hospital and ambulance and “a posteriori” video evaluation was moderate to good with weighted κ values of 0.69 (95% CI, 0.51–0.87) and 0.79 (95% CI, 0.59–0.98), respectively.

Conclusion—

Prehospital telestroke examination was not at an acceptable level for clinical use, at least on the basis of the used technology. Further technical development is needed before telestroke is applicable for prehospital stroke management during patient transport.
Cavitation of Deep Lacunar Infarcts in Patients With First-Ever Lacunar Stroke
Authors: Loos Caroline M.J. , Staals Julie , Wardlaw Joanna M. , van Oostenbrugge Robert J.
Published: June 2012

Background and Purpose—

Studies in patients with lacunar stroke often assess the number of lacunes. However, data on how many symptomatic lacunar infarcts cavitate into a lacune are limited. We assessed the evolution of symptomatic lacunar infarcts over 2-year follow-up.

Methods—

In 82 patients with first-ever lacunar stroke with a lacunar infarct in the deep brain regions (excluding the centrum semiovale), we performed a brain MR at presentation and 2 years later. We classified cavitation of lacunar infarcts at baseline and on follow-up MR as absent, incomplete, or complete. We recorded time to imaging, infarct size, and vascular risk factors.

Results—

On baseline MR, 38 (46%) index infarcts showed complete or incomplete cavitation. Median time to imaging was 8 (0–73) days in noncavitated and 63 (1–184) days in cavitated lesions (
P
<0.05). On follow-up imaging, 94% of the lacunar infarcts were completely or incompletely cavitated, most had reduced in diameter, and 5 (6%) had disappeared. Vascular risk factors were not associated with cavitation.

Conclusion—

Cavitation and lesion shrinkage were seen in almost all symptomatic lacunar infarcts in the deep brain regions over 2-year follow-up. Counting lacunes in these specific regions at a random moment might slightly, however not substantially, underestimate the burden of deep lacunar infarction.
Analysis of mechanical properties of hemp fibre reinforced unsaturated polyester composites
Authors: Sawpan Moyeenuddin A , Pickering Kim L , Fernyhough Alan
Published: June 2012

Different chemically treated hemp fibre reinforced unsaturated polyester composites were investigated over a range of fibre content (0–60 wt%). Although Young’s modulus of all the short fibre reinforced unsaturated polyester composites was found to be higher than that of unreinforced unsaturated polyester; however, tensile strength of the composites exceeded that of the unsaturated polyester matrix only for the combined alkali- and silane-treated fibre composites at 40 wt% fibre content. The decrease in tensile strength of the composites could be attributed to stress concentrations caused by the fibres in conjunction with the brittle matrix. Impact strength of all the treated fibre composites was higher than that of the untreated fibre composites at all fibre contents. KIc and GIc of the composites decreased initially and then increased as the fibre content increased because more and more fibres being available to pull-out. The mechanical properties of the composites were increased further due to the alignment of long fibres.
Interlaminar stresses analysis and the limit state function approximating methods for composite structure reliability assessment: A selected review and some perspectives
Authors: Chen Weidong , Jia Ping
Published: June 2012

In composite structure reliability analysis, the limit state function is implicit. Accurate but complicated laminated composite plate theories are almost impractical to be applied to calculate interlaminar stresses. So delamination failure mode is seldom considered in composite structure reliability analysis. A review is made on laminated composite plate theories to get relative concise interlaminar stresses. Then surrogate methods especially the support vector machine are reviewed to approximate the true implicit limit state function. Based on the selected review, a new perspective about composite structure reliability assessment is proposed. It is recommended innovatively that accurate interlaminar stresses can be calculated by the global–local higher order shear deformation theory, and the support vector machine is utilized to solve the implicit limit state function problems in composite reliability analysis. Thus, considering delamination failure mode in reliability analysis may become possible.
Effect of nanoclay on ballistic behavior of woven fabric composites: Experimental investigation
Authors: Pol M Hossein , Liaghat GH , Hajiarazi F
Published: June 2012

In this article, the influence of nanoclay Closite 30B on E-glass/epoxy laminated composites behavior has been investigated by ballistic impact, X-ray diffraction and tensile tests. The fiber glass used is a plain weave of 200 g/m2, whereas nanoclay is an organically modified montmorillonite nanoclay (Closite 30B). The epoxy resin system is made up of epon 828 as the epoxy prepolymer and Jeffamine D-400 as the curing agent. The nanoclay particles are dispersed into the epoxy system in 0, 1, 2, 3, 5 and 7% in weight with respect to the matrix. Ballistic tests were performed by considering three impact velocities, 130, 142 and 155 m/s by a flat-ended projectile. The results show that not only have the mechanical properties increased, but also have the energy-absorbing capability and the damage area due to addition of nanoclay particles, especially in impact velocities near to ballistic limit. For the impact velocities of 130 and 142 m/s, the maximum increase of the energy-absorbing capability is observed in 5 wt% nanoclay, whereas for the impact velocity of 155 m/s, the energy-absorbing capability is increased beyond 7 wt% nanoclay.
Electrospinning fabrication of polyvinyl alcohol and polyvinyl pyrrolidone/Sm(NO3)3-Sm2O3 composites nanofibers
Authors: Frontera P , Busacca C , Faro M Lo , Antonucci PL
Published: June 2012

Polyvinyl pyrrolidone and polyvinyl alcohol thickeners and Sm(NO3)3 have been directly processed by electrospinning method to obtain composite nanofibers. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs indicated that the surface of the prepared composite fibers was smooth. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the composite nanofibers were amorphous in structure. Sm2O3 nanoparticles and nanofibers were fabricated by calcination of the composite fibers.
Fabrication and mechanical properties of porous Al2O3-based multiphase composite through surface charge
Authors: Kim Eun-Hee , Lee Je-Hyun , Jung Yeon-Gil
Published: June 2012

The bi-reinforcement phases of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and TiC have been incorporated into Al2O3 matrix prepared with Al(OH)3, to improve the mechanical properties of porous Al2O3 matrix. The reinforcement phases were mixed using their surface charges for the uniform dispersion into the Al2O3 matrix, with the content of reinforcement phase and the variation of potential hydrogen in a suspension. MWCNTs were purified and modified by an acid to enhance their dispersibility in an aqueous solution. The modified MWCNTs were added in the TiC suspension with potential hydrogen of 7. The TiC-coated MWCNTs solution was filtered, dried, and heat-treated at 500℃. The prepared TiC-coated MWCNTs were mixed with the Al(OH)3 solution with potential hydrogen of 2 and filtered at room temperature. The prepared multiphase composites show higher mechanical properties than porous Al2O3 matrix because of the reinforcing effect of TiC particle.
Effect of jute fibre loading on the mechanical and thermal properties of oil palm–epoxy composites
Authors: Jawaid M , Khalil HPS Abdul , Bakar A Abu , Hassan Azman , Dungani Rudi
Published: June 2012

Bilayer hybrid composites fabricated by hand lay-up technique by impregnating oil palm empty fruit bunch and jute fibre mats with epoxy resin and cured at 100℃ for 1 h followed by post curing at 105℃. Bilayer hybrid composites were prepared by varying the relative weight fraction of the two fibres. The mechanical, morphological and thermal properties of oil palm/jute bilayer hybrid composites were carried out. When the jute fibre loading is increased in the bilayer hybrid composites, flexural strength and modulus of the hybrid composites will be higher. The hybridization of the jute fibres with oil palm composite decreased the impact strength of the bilayer hybrid composites. Analysis of variance statistical of flexural and impact properties were also carried out; there is a statistically significant difference between the mean flexural strength, flexural modulus and impact strength from one level of composite to another at the 95.0% confidence level. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that thermal stability of oil palm composites increased with development of bilayer hybrid composites. Scanning electron micrographs of impact fracture samples are taken to study the failure mechanism, and fibre/matrix interface adhesion.
Detecting and locating damage initiation and progression in full-scale sandwich composite fuselage panels using acoustic emission
Authors: Leone Frank A , Ozevin Didem , Awerbuch Jonathan , Tan Tein-Min
Published: June 2012

In this study, acoustic emission was evaluated as a supplementary nondestructive testing method for detecting damage initiation and progression, identifying the site of damage, and anticipating ultimate fracture in notched full-scale honeycomb sandwich composite fuselage panels using redundant arrays of different acoustic emission sensor models. Each panel contained different damage scenarios and was subjected to combinations of quasi-static hoop and longitudinal loads. Damage progression and location were characterized with various inspection techniques, and the acoustic emission results were correlated with photogrammetric strain fields. Applying post-test signal processing, acoustic emission accurately detected notch tip damage initiation and tracked its progression to ultimate failure.
Whither Utility and Duty? A Case for Virtue in Community College Administration
Authors: Propheter Geoffrey , Jez Su Jin
Published: June 2012

Recent improprieties by community college administrators have scarred the public trust. Efforts to secure against maladministration are firmly rooted in utilitarian and deontological ethics. In this article, the authors argue that these common approaches cannot remedy maladministration in the community college because utilitarianism and deontology are part of the problem and, therefore, cannot be part of the solution. Instead, the authors make the case that virtue ethics provides the best framework for moral community college administration while also being the best means of restoring public trust.
Regulatory Forum Opinion Piece*
Authors: Bucher John R.
Published: June 2012

Tox21 is a transformative effort on the part of several U.S. Federal agencies (the National Toxicology Program/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences [NTP], the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Chemical Genomics Center/National Human Genome Research Institute [NCGC; now called the NIH Center for Translational Therapeutics, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences] the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) National Center for Computational Toxicology, and recently the Food and Drug Administration) that are partnering to fundamentally change the science of safety toxicology. These agencies bring a comprehensive suite of capabilities and are working diligently together to develop, evaluate, and ultimately implement a new safety assessment paradigm. Toxicologic pathology has an important ongoing role in establishing the validity of this transformation, and may ultimately benefit as a discipline through an enhanced understanding of chemically induced disease mechanisms.
Management of Hyoid Bone Fractures
Authors: Ramchand Tekchand , Choudhry Osamah J. , Shukla Pratik A. , Tomovic Senja , Kuperan Arjuna B. , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: June 2012

Objective

Fractures of the hyoid bone are rare occurrences. They are mainly caused by strangulation/asphyxiation injuries, trauma to the neck, and motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). As a result of their rarity, proper treatment guidelines are not in place for dealing with these injuries. In this study, a systematic literature review was conducted with the goal of identifying optimal management for patients with fracture of the hyoid bone.

Data Sources

MEDLINE and PubMed databases.

Review Methods

The MEDLINE and PubMed databases were searched for patients diagnosed with hyoid bone fracture. Further cases were obtained from the bibliographies of relevant articles. Full‐text articles were obtained. Patient presentation, method of diagnosis, treatment regimen, and outcomes are discussed.

Results

Forty‐six cases were collected from 36 articles. No randomized controlled trials regarding treatment of hyoid fractures were found. The most common etiologies were MVA, assault, and neck trauma during athletic activities. Most common presenting symptoms included dysphagia, odynophagia, and pain upon neck rotation. Most frequent presenting signs included anterior neck tenderness and swelling. Five cases out of 46 had surgical repair of the fractured hyoid bone. In the remaining 41 cases, 26 were treated with conservative management, which included rest/observation, diet changes, and analgesia, while the other 15 cases required tracheotomy or surgical treatment for related injuries. All patients survived and had excellent outcomes with resolution of symptoms.

Conclusion

This review shows that direct surgical treatment of hyoid fractures was performed in only 10.9% of cases. Both conservative and surgical management yielded positive outcomes.
Paternalizing mothers: Feminist repertoires in contemporary Dutch civilizing offensives
Authors: Van Den Berg Marguerite , Duyvendak Jan Willem
Published: June 2012

The stress in Dutch policy texts and policy practices on the emancipation of migrant women from their family and spouses goes hand in hand with a focus on precisely women’s role within the family: that of the mother. In this paper, we ask the question how this is possible. We aim to shed light on this question by understanding contemporary policy texts and policy practices in the context of 1) a strong domestic motherhood ideology and 2) a Dutch tradition of paternalism. These tensions between notions of autonomy and emancipation from the family and marriage on the one hand, and motherhood on the other hand, lead to paradoxical practices of teaching migrant women to become emancipated within their role as mothers. Feminist discursive repertoires are put to work in paternalist policy practices that focus on autonomy in particular ways. In this article, we analyse these notions in policy discourses and in practices that we recorded in ethnographic research in parenting courses in Rotterdam.
Devolution, social democratic visions and policy reality in Scotland
Authors: Scott Gill , Wright Sharon
Published: June 2012

The Scottish National Party’s election win in 2011 produced the first overall majority for any party since the Scottish Parliament’s inception in 1999, despite the proportional representation system that was supposed to prevent single party governments. This historic election has been followed by much discussion of how much further the powers of the Scottish Parliament could be extended and whether devolution would allow Scotland to have a superior welfare settlement. In this context policy divergence has been the major focus of the developing devolution debate but discussions about greater powers or even independence for the Parliament have increased significantly. They are often presented as a means to achieve a ‘better’ or more ‘fair’ society. This article argues that shortcomings in the steps towards fairness achieved under the current arrangements of devolution highlight the need for a far-reaching and innovative approach to social justice to be carried out alongside any further discussions of independence. Such an approach cannot be taken for granted.