bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desferrioxamine Reduces Oxidative Stress in the Lung Contusion
Authors: Basaran Umit Nusret , Ayvaz Suleyman , Aksu Burhan , Karaca Turan , Cemek Mustafa , Karaboga Ihsan , Inan Mustafa , Aksu Feyza , Pul Mehmet
Published: August 2013

Our hypothesis in this study is that desferrioxamine (DFX) has therapeutic effects on experimental lung contusions in rats. The rats were divided into four groups (n = 8): control, control+DFX, contusion, and contusion+DFX. In the control+DFX and contusion+DFX groups, 100 mg/kg DFX was given intraperitoneally once a day just after the contusion and the day after the contusion. Contusions led to a meaningful rise in the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in lung tissue. MDA levels in the contusion+DFX group experienced a significant decline. Glutathione levels were significantly lower in the contusion group than in the control group and significantly higher in the contusion+DFX group. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in the contusion group were significantly lower than those in the control group. In the contusion+DFX group, SOD and GPx levels were significantly higher than those in the contusion group. In light microscopic evaluation, the contusion and contusion+DFX groups showed edema, hemorrhage, alveolar destruction, and leukocyte infiltration. However, histological scoring of the contusion+DFX group was significantly more positive than that of the contusion group. The iNOS staining in the contusion group was significantly more intensive than that in all other groups. DFX reduced iNOS staining significantly in comparison to the contusion group. This study showed that DFX reduced oxidative stress in lung contusions in rats and histopathologically ensured the recovery of the lung tissue.
EasiND: Neighbor Discovery in Duty-Cycled Asynchronous Multichannel Mobile WSNs
Authors: Huang Tingpei , Chen Haiming , Cui Li , Zhang Yuqing
Published: August 2013

Neighbor discovery is one of the first steps to establish communication links between sensor nodes; thus it becomes a fundamental building block for wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Traditional neighbor discovery protocols mainly focus on static wireless networks or networks where all nodes operate on the same frequency. However, the proliferation of mobile devices and multichannel communications post new challenges to neighbor discovery problem. In this paper, we present a neighbor discovery protocol named EasiND for asynchronous duty-cycled multichannel mobile WSNs. First, we propose a neighbor discovery system based on quorum system, which can bound the discovery latency in multichannel scenarios with low power consumptions. Second, we design an optimal asynchronous neighbor discovery system for multichannel mobile WSNs based on cyclic difference set. It is optimal in the sense that it minimizes the power consumption with bounded discovery latency under desired duty cycles. Finally, we validate the performance of EasiND through both theoretical analysis and test-bed evaluations. EasiND provides a 33.3% reduction in power-latency product in theory compared to U-Connect. Meanwhile, test-bed evaluation results show that EasiND decreases average discovery latency by up to 86% compared to U-Connect and achieves at least 93.5% average fraction of discoveries in a predefined time limitation under various network conditions.
An Algebraic Method on the Eigenvalues and Stability of Delayed Reaction-Diffusion Systems
Authors: Ma Jian , Zheng Baodong
Published: August 2013

The eigenvalues and stability of the delayed reaction-diffusion systems are considered using the algebraic methods. Firstly, new algebraic criteria to determine the pure imaginary eigenvalues are derived by applying the matrix pencil and the linear operator methods. Secondly, a practical checkable criteria for the asymptotic stability are introduced.
Cartilage Protective and Chondrogenic Capacity of WIN-34B, a New Herbal Agent, in the Collagenase-Induced Osteoarthritis Rabbit Model and in Progenitor Cells from Subchondral Bone
Authors: Huh Jeong-Eun , Park Yeon-Cheol , Seo Byung-Kwan , Lee Jae-Dong , Baek Yong-Hyeon , Choi Do-Young , Park Dong-Suk
Published: August 2013

We sought to determine the cartilage repair capacity of WIN-34B in the collagenase-induced osteoarthritis rabbit model and in progenitor cells from subchondral bone. The cartilage protective effect of WIN-34B was measured by clinical and histological scores, cartilage area, and proteoglycan and collagen contents in the collagenase-induced osteoarthritis rabbit model. The efficacy of chondrogenic differentiation of WIN-34B was assessed by expression of CD105, CD73, type II collagen, and aggrecanin vivoand was analyzed by the surface markers of progenitor cells, the mRNA levels of chondrogenic marker genes, and the level of proteoglycan, GAG, and type II collagenin vitro. Oral administration of WIN-34B significantly increased cartilage area, and this was associated with the recovery of proteoglycan and collagen content. Moreover, WIN-34B at 200 mg/kg significantly increased the expression of CD105, CD73, type II collagen, and aggrecan compared to the vehicle group. WIN-34B markedly enhanced the chondrogenic differentiation of CD105 and type II collagen in the progenitor cells from subchondral bone. Also, we confirmed that treatment with WIN-34B strongly increased the number of SH-2(CD105) cells and expression type II collagen in subchondral progenitor cells. Moreover, WIN-34B significantly increased proteoglycan, as measured by alcian blue staining; the mRNA level of type IIα1 collagen, cartilage link protein, and aggrecan; and the inhibition of cartilage matrix molecules, such as GAG and type II collagen, in IL-1β-treated progenitor cells. These findings suggest that WIN-34B could be a potential candidate for effective anti-osteoarthritic therapy with cartilage repair as well as cartilage protection via enhancement of chondrogenic differentiation in the collagenase-induced osteoarthritis rabbit model and progenitor cells from subchondral bone.
Research on Vehicle Automatically Tracking Mechanism in VANET
Authors: Wang Lin , Zhang Shukui , Wang Xiaoning , Zhang Yang
Published: August 2013

The intelligent vehicle is a complex system equipped with advanced technologies such as the artificial intelligence, automatic control, and computer, communication. It is a combination of multiple academic subjects and the latest technologies representing the developing tendency of future automobile technology and attracts more and more attention. In this paper, we made some useful explorations in the fields of intelligent vehicle control technology and obstacle avoidance, and a deep research is carried out about the distance of vehicle, vehicle tracking, vehicle lane changing and intersections obstacle avoidance and communication protocols, and some innovative ideas are proposed during the research. By using VANET, some predictable status of tracing and tracking of intelligent vehicle technology was researched, and the communication protocols between two vehicles, the safe spacing algorithm, the method of computing the actual distance at corners and straights, and the trajectory of lane change were designed. In addition, a series of vehicle tracing and tracking technologies, such as without knowing the road conditions, homeostatic mechanism, keeping a safe spacing to the target vehicle, and adjusting its own speed to track the target vehicle smoothly to the destination by comparing the actual distance and safe spacing between vehicles, were discussed here.
Modelling the Effects of Radioactive Effluent onThunnus orientalisandOncorhynchus gorbuscha
Authors: Chen Zhixiong , Ding Yi , Laracuenti Rusty , Lipat Bernard
Published: August 2013

The contamination of the Pacific Ocean by the radioactive pollutants released from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant has raised legitimate concerns over the viability of marine wildlife. We develop a modified Crank-Nicholson method to approximate a solution to the diffusion-advection-decay equation in time and three spatial dimensions to explore the extent of the effects of the radioactive effluent on two marine species: the Pacific Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus orientalis) and the Pacific Pink Salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha).
Expression of the Metastasis Suppressor KAI1 in Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Maloney Shawn C. , Fernandes Bruno F. , Penteado Rafaella Cleto , Antecka Emilia , Bravo-Filho Vasco , Sanft Debra Meghan , Burnier Miguel N.
Published: August 2013

Introduction. Uveal melanoma (UM) is an intraocular tumor that leads to metastatic disease in approximately 50% of afflicted patients. There is no efficacious treatment for metastatic disease in this cancer. Identification of markers that can offer prognostic and therapeutic value is a major focus in this field at present. KAI1 is a metastasis suppressor gene that has been reported to play a role in various human malignancies, although it has not previously been evaluated in UM.Purpose. To investigate the expression of KAI1 in UM and its potential value as a prognostic marker.Materials and Methods. 18 cases of human primary UM were collected and immunostained for KAI1 expression. A pathologist evaluated staining intensity and distribution semiquantitatively. Each case was categorized as group 1 (low staining) or group 2 (high staining).Results. In group 2, two of the 12 cases presented with metastasis. Conversely, in group 1, five out of 6 cases had metastasis. The mean follow-up of patients who did not develop metastasis was 81.81 months (median: 75 months) versus 42.14 months (median: 44 months) for patients with metastasis.Conclusions. KAI1 is a promising candidate marker that may offer prognostic value in UM; it may also represent a therapeutic target in metastatic disease.
First-Order Light Deflection by Einstein-Strauss Vacuole Method
Authors: Saha Debasish , Tamang Amarjit , Izmailov Ramil , Cattani Carlo , Nandi Kamal K.
Published: August 2013

We resolve here an outstanding problem plaguing conformal gravity in its
role in making consistent astrophysical predictions. Though its static
spherically symmetric solution incorporates all the successes of
Schwarzschild gravity, the fit to observed galactic rotation curves requires
γ>0, while the observed increase in the Schwarzschild light
deflection by galaxies appears to demand γ<0. Here we show that,
contrary to common knowledge, there is an increase in the
Schwarzschild deflection angle in the vicinity of galaxies due purely to the
effect of γ>0, when the idea of the Einstein-Strauss vacuole model
is employed. With the inconsistency now out of the way, conformal gravity should be
regarded as a good theory explaining light deflection by galaxies.
Dynamic Beamforming for Three-Dimensional MIMO Technique in LTE-Advanced Networks
Authors: Li Yan , Ji Xiaodong , Liang Dong , Li Yuan
Published: August 2013

MIMO system with large number of antennas, referred to as large MIMO or massive MIMO, has drawn increased attention as they enable significant throughput and coverage improvement in LTE-Advanced networks. However, deploying huge number of antennas in both transmitters and receivers was a great challenge in the past few years. Three-dimensional MIMO (3D MIMO) is introduced as a promising technique in massive MIMO networks to enhance the cellular performance by deploying antenna elements in both horizontal and vertical dimensions. Radio propagation of user equipments (UE) is considered only in horizontal domain by applying 2D beamforming. In this paper, a dynamic beamforming algorithm is proposed where vertical domain of antenna is fully considered and beamforming vector can be obtained according to UEs’ horizontal and vertical directions. Compared with the conventional 2D beamforming algorithm, throughput of cell edge UEs and cell center UEs can be improved by the proposed algorithm. System level simulation is performed to evaluate the proposed algorithm. In addition, the impacts of downtilt and intersite distance (ISD) on spectral efficiency and cell coverage are explored.
Invertibility of Nonlinear Differential-Algebraic-Equation Subsystems with Application to Power Systems
Authors: Zang Qiang , Zhang Kaifeng , Dai Xianzhong , Zhou Ying
Published: August 2013

For nonlinear differential-algebraic-equation subsystems, whose index is one and interconnection input is locally measurable, the problem of invertibility is discussed and the results are applied to the power systems component decentralized control. The inverse systems’ definitions for such a class of differential-algebraic-equation subsystems are put forward. A recursive algorithm is proposed to judge whether the controlled systems are invertible. Then physically feasibleα-order integral right inverse systems are constructed, with which the composite systems are linearizaed and decoupled. Finally, decentralized excitation and valve coordinative control for one synchronous generator within multimachine power systems are studied and the simulation results based on MATLAB demonstrate the effectiveness of the control scheme proposed in this paper.
A Game Theoretic Model for Wireless Sensor Networks with Hidden-Action Attacks
Authors: Mao Yuxin , Zhu Ping , Wei Guiyi
Published: August 2013

The unattended nature of wireless sensor networks makes them very vulnerable to an adversary's malicious attack. In this paper, we propose to apply game theory into solving the network security problem of wireless network. We explore game theory algorithms to model situation for wireless network with malicious nodes and investigate the attack and detection problem by modeling it as pairwise simultaneous game and spatial structured game. We consider the relationship between the nodes in a wireless sensor network to formulate the game and give the game theory algorithms in detail. We also evaluate the approach with a simulation experiment and analyze the simulation results in detail. We argue that the approach is able to support secure end-to-end communication in wireless sensor networks.
Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis: A Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Mimica Mladen , Pravdic Danijel , Nakas-Icindic Emina , Karin Maja , Babic Emil , Tomic Monika , Bevanda Milenko
Published: August 2013

Introduction. Multiple symmetric lipomatosis, or Madelung's disease, is a rare condition which is characterized with large symmetrical accumulation of noncapsulated fat tissue in upper arms, neck, and shoulder areas. The disease etiology is unknown, with the highest incidence in the Mediterranean region.Case Presentation. Here, we present the case of Madelung's disease with symmetric fat distribution throughout the neck and history of alcoholism. The patient was treated from several diseases associated with alcoholism and hospitalized several times, but the diagnosis of Madelung's disease was omitted. The thyroid gland disease was excluded, while enlargement of the neck adipose tissue was attributed to obesity.Conclusions. This study points out possible diagnostic mistakes when a physician is not aware of a differentiation diagnosis of symmetrically enlarged neck masses, especially in geographic regions with high incidence of this disease.
The Natural Filtration of Finite Dimensional Modular Lie Superalgebras of Special Type
Authors: Zheng Keli , Zhang Yongzheng
Published: August 2013

This paper is concerned with the natural filtration of Lie superalgebraS(n,m)of special type over a field of prime characteristic. We first construct the modular Lie superalgebraS(n,m). Then we prove that the natural filtration ofS(n,m)is invariant under its automorphisms.
Brazilian Green Propolis Suppresses the Hypoxia-Induced Neuroinflammatory Responses by Inhibiting NF-κB Activation in Microglia
Authors: Wu Zhou , Zhu Aiqin , Takayama Fumiko , Okada Ryo , Liu Yicong , Harada Yuka , Wu Shizheng , Nakanishi Hiroshi
Published: August 2013

Hypoxia has been recently proposed as a neuroinflammatogen, which drives microglia to produce proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1β(IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), and IL-6. Considering the fact that propolis has hepatoprotective, antitumor, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory effects, propolis may have protective effects against the hypoxia-induced neuroinflammatory responses. In this study, propolis (50 μg/mL) was found to significantly inhibit the hypoxia-induced cytotoxicity and the release of proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, by MG6 microglia following hypoxic exposure (1% O2, 24 h). Furthermore, propolis significantly inhibited the hypoxia-induced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from mitochondria and the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in microglia. Moreover, systemic treatment with propolis (8.33 mg/kg, 2 times/day, i.p.) for 7 days significantly suppressed the microglial expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and 8-oxo-deoxyguanosine, a biomarker for oxidative damaged DNA, in the somatosensory cortex of mice subjected to hypoxia exposure (10% O2, 4 h). These observations indicate that propolis suppresses the hypoxia-induced neuroinflammatory responses through inhibition of the NF-κB activation in microglia. Furthermore, increased generation of ROS from the mitochondria is responsible for the NF-κB activation. Therefore, propolis may be beneficial in preventing hypoxia-induced neuroinflammation.
Robotic-Assisted Transperitoneal Aortic Lymphadenectomy as Part of Staging Procedure for Gynaecological Malignancies: Single Institution Experience
Authors: Zanagnolo V. , Rollo D. , Tomaselli T. , Rosenberg P. G. , Bocciolone L. , Landoni F. , Aletti G. , Peiretti M. , Sanguineti F. , Maggioni A.
Published: August 2013

Introduction. This study was designed to confirm the feasibility and safety of robotic-assisted transperitoneal aortic lymphadenectomy as part of staging procedure for gynecologic malignancies.Methods. Chart review of 51 patients who had undergone robotic staging with aortic lymphadenectomy for different gynaecologic malignancies was performed.Results. The primary diagnosis was as follows: 6 cases of endometrial cancer, 31 epithelial ovarian cancer, 9 nonepithelial ovarian cancer, 4 tubal cancer, and 1 cervical cancer. Median BMI was 23 kg/m2. Except for a single case of aortic lymphadenectomy only, both aortic and pelvic lymphadenectomies were performed at the time of the staging procedure. All the para-aortic lymphadenectomies were carried out to the level of the renal veinl but 6 cases were carried out to the level of the inferior mesenteric artery. Hysterectomy was performed in 24 patiens (47%). There was no conversion to LPT. The median console time was 285 (range 195–402) with a significant difference between patients who underwent hysterectomy and those who did not. The median estimated blood loss was 50 mL (range 20–200). The mean number of removed nodes was29±9.6. The mean number of pelvic nodes was15±7.6, whereas the mean number of para-aortic nodes was14±6.6.Conclusions. Robotic transperitoneal infrarenal aortic lymphadenectomy as part of staging procedure is feasible and can be safely performed. Additional trocars are needed when pelvic surgery is also performed.
A Hybrid Distance Estimation for Wireless Body Sensor Networks
Authors: Hur Kyeong , Sohn Won-Sung , Kim Jae-Kyung
Published: August 2013

Wireless body area networks become a new research issue in recent years. In this paper, we propose hibernation and distance estimation schemes for wireless USB (WUSB) over wireless body area networks (WBAN) hierarchical protocol for body sensor networks (BSNs). The proposed middleware platform is composed of hibernation and optimal short distance estimation solution. Firstly, this paper provides WUSB private channel allocation scheme at the m-periodic allocation hibernation of a WBAN superframe. Secondly, three typical location estimation schemes of time difference of arrival (TDoA), frequency difference of arrival (FDoA), and angle of arrival (AoA) are analyzed through comparison of experiment results to propose optimal short distance estimation solution which is executed at each body sensor node on the basis of WUSB over WBAN protocol. And the WBAN host interprets status and motion of the body-sensor objects. The hybrid TDoA/FDoA/AoA algorithm based on UWB ranging shows best performances among the other hybrid schemes for wireless BSNs.
Secular Trends in Cardiovascular Disease and Its Risk Factors in Japanese
Authors: Hata Jun , Ninomiya Toshiharu , Hirakawa Yoichiro , Nagata Masaharu , Mukai Naoko , Gotoh Seiji , Fukuhara Masayo , Ikeda Fumie , Shikata Kentaro , Yoshida Daigo , Yonemoto Koji , Kamouchi Masahiro , Kitazono Takanari , Kiyohara Yutaka
Published: August 2013

Background—

Changes in lifestyle and advances in medical technology during the past half century are likely to have affected the incidence and mortality of cardiovascular disease and the prevalence of its risk factors in Japan.

Methods and Results—

We established 5 cohorts consisting of residents aged ≥40 years in a Japanese community, in 1961 (n=1618), 1974 (n=2038), 1983 (n=2459), 1993 (n=1983), and 2002 (n=3108), and followed up each cohort for 7 years. The age-adjusted incidence of stroke decreased greatly, by 51% in men and by 43% in women, from the 1960s to the 1970s, but this decreasing trend slowed from the 1970s to the 2000s. Among the stroke subtypes, ischemic stroke in both sexes and intracerebral hemorrhage in men showed a similar pattern. Stroke mortality decreased as a result of the decline in incidence and a significant improvement in survival rate. Although the incidence of acute myocardial infarction did not change in either sex, disease mortality declined slightly in women. From the 1960s to the 2000s, blood pressure control among hypertensive individuals improved significantly and the smoking rate decreased, but the prevalence of glucose intolerance, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity increased steeply.

Conclusions—

Our findings suggest that in Japanese, the decreasing trends in the incidence of ischemic stroke have recently slowed down, and there has been no clear change in the incidence of acute myocardial infarction, probably because the benefits of hypertension control and smoking cessation have been negated by increasing metabolic risk factors.
Endangered: A Study of Morphological Drawing in Zoological Taxonomy
Authors: Anderson Gemma
Published: August 2013

Drawing has long been the backbone of zoological taxonomy. Recently, however, morphological drawing has quietly fallen into a critical decline and is now an endangered practice. The author discusses the reasons for this decline and why morphological drawing is worth saving.
Modes of Address in Pictorial Art: An Eye Movement Study of Manet's Bar at the Folies-Bergère
Authors: Harland Beth , Gillett John , Mann Carl M. , Kass Jason , Godwin Hayward J. , Liversedge Simon P. , Donnelly Nick
Published: August 2013

Art-historical accounts of the last 200 years identify developments in the types, or “modes,” of address that a picture can present to a viewer as critical to the experience and evaluation of paintings. The authors focus on “anti-theatrical” theories of pictorial address and the complex and innovative “double relation” of absorption and acknowledgment introduced by the painter Edouard Manet. They report a case study of Manet's A Bar at the Folies-Bergère investigating expert and novice spectators' eye movements and utterances in response to the painting to find evidence that viewers seek resolution of the complex “double relation” that the theories describe.
Two new species of stoneflies (Plecoptera: Nemouridae) from Northeastern India, with a checklist of the family in the Indian Subcontinent
Authors: MURÁNYI DÁVID , LI WEIHAI
Published: August 2013

A new species of the genus Amphinemura (Plecoptera: Nemouridae: Amphinemurinae), A. baumanni sp. n. is described on the basis of five males collected in the Darjeeling District of West Bengal, India. A new species of the genus Sphaeronemoura (Amphinemurinae), S. siveci sp. n. is described on the basis of a single male collected in the West Garo Hills District of Meghalaya, India. A checklist of the family Nemouridae from the Indian Subcontinent is given with zoogeographical comments.
Low-Level ZDR Signatures in Supercell Forward Flanks: The Role of Size Sorting and Melting of Hail
Authors: Dawson Daniel T. , Mansell Edward R. , Jung Youngsun , Wicker Louis J. , Kumjian Matthew R. , Xue Ming
Published: August 2013

The low levels of supercell forward flanks commonly exhibit distinct differential reflectivity (ZDR) signatures, including the low-ZDR hail signature and the high-ZDR “arc.” The ZDR arc has been previously associated with size sorting of raindrops in the presence of vertical wind shear; here this model is extended to include size sorting of hail. Idealized simulations of a supercell storm observed by the Norman, Oklahoma (KOUN), polarimetric radar on 1 June 2008 are performed using a multimoment bulk microphysics scheme, in which size sorting is allowed or disallowed for hydrometeor species. Several velocity–diameter relationships for the hail fall speed are considered, as well as fixed or variable bulk densities that span the graupel-to-hail spectrum. A T-matrix-based emulator is used to derive polarimetric fields from the hydrometeor state variables.

Size sorting of hail is found to have a dominant impact on ZDR and can result in a ZDR arc from melting hail even when size sorting is disallowed in the rain field. The low-ZDR hail core only appears when size sorting is allowed for hail. The mean storm-relative wind in a deep layer is found to align closely with the gradient in mean mass diameter of both rain and hail, with a slight shift toward the storm-relative mean wind below the melting level in the case of rain. The best comparison with the observed 1 June 2008 supercell is obtained when both rain and hail are allowed to sort, and the bulk density and associated fall-speed curve for hail are predicted by the model microphysics.
Comparison of Short-Term and Long-Term Radiative Feedbacks and Variability in Twentieth-Century Global Climate Model Simulations
Authors: Dalton Meghan M. , Shell Karen M.
Published: August 2013

The climate sensitivity uncertainty of global climate models (GCMs) is partly due to the spread of individual feedbacks. One approach to constrain long-term climate sensitivity is to use the relatively short observational record, assuming there exists some relationship in feedbacks between short and long records. The present work tests this assumption by regressing short-term feedback metrics, characterized by the 20-yr feedback as well as interannual and intra-annual metrics, against long-term longwave water vapor, longwave atmospheric temperature, and shortwave surface albedo feedbacks calculated from 13 twentieth-century GCM simulations. Estimates of long-term feedbacks derived from reanalysis observations and statistically significant regressions are consistent with but no more constrained than earlier estimates.

For the interannual metric, natural variability contributes to the feedback uncertainty, reducing the ability to estimate the interannual behavior from one 20-yr time slice. For both the interannual and intra-annual metrics, uncertainty in the intermodel relationships between 20-yr metrics and 100-yr feedbacks also contributes to the feedback uncertainty. Because of differences in time scales of feedback processes, relationships between the 20-yr interannual metric and 100-yr water vapor and atmospheric temperature feedbacks are significant for only one feedback calculation method. The intra-annual and surface albedo relationships show more complex behavior, though positive correspondence between Northern Hemisphere surface albedo intra-annual metrics and 100-yr feedbacks is consistent with previous studies. Many relationships between 20-yr metrics and 100-yr feedbacks are sensitive to the specific GCMs included, highlighting that care should be taken when inferring long-term feedbacks from short-term observations.
Trend Analysis with a New Global Record of Tropical Cyclone Intensity
Authors: Kossin James P. , Olander Timothy L. , Knapp Kenneth R.
Published: August 2013

The historical global “best track” records of tropical cyclones extend back to the mid-nineteenth century in some regions, but formal analysis of these records is encumbered by temporal heterogeneities in the data. This is particularly problematic when attempting to detect trends in tropical cyclone metrics that may be attributable to climate change. Here the authors apply a state-of-the-art automated algorithm to a globally homogenized satellite data record to create a more temporally consistent record of tropical cyclone intensity within the period 1982–2009, and utilize this record to investigate the robustness of trends found in the best-track data. In particular, the lifetime maximum intensity (LMI) achieved by each reported storm is calculated and the frequency distribution of LMI is tested for changes over this period.

To address the unique issues in regions around the Indian Ocean, which result from a discontinuity introduced into the satellite data in 1998, a direct homogenization procedure is applied in which post-1998 data are degraded to pre-1998 standards. This additional homogenization step is found to measurably reduce LMI trends, but the global trends in the LMI of the strongest storms remain positive, with amplitudes of around +1 m s−1 decade−1 and p value = 0.1. Regional trends, in m s−1 decade−1, vary from −2 (p = 0.03) in the western North Pacific, +1.7 (p = 0.06) in the south Indian Ocean, +2.5 (p = 0.09) in the South Pacific, to +8 (p < 0.001) in the North Atlantic.
Electrical acupoint stimulation of the affected arm in acute stroke: a placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial
Authors: Au-Yeung Stephanie SY , Hui-Chan Christina WY
Published: August 2013

Objectives:

To determine whether adding electrical stimulation of upper limb acupoints to conventional rehabilitation during acute stroke could produce greater and longer lasting motor improvements of the arm.

Design:

Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

Setting:

Acute stroke wards, followed by rehabilitation hospitals and subjects’ residences.

Participants:

Seventy-three patients ≤ 46 hours post stroke onset with moderate to severe weakness in the arm contralateral to the side of stroke.

Intervention:

All subjects received conventional rehabilitation. Twenty-nine received additional electrical stimulation, 21 received additional placebo-electrical stimulation and 23 received conventional rehabilitation only, as control. Electrical stimulation or placebo-electrical stimulation was applied to acupoints GB20, LI15, LI11, LI10 and LI4, 60 minutes a day, five days a week, for four weeks.

Measurements:

Primary outcome measures were hand grip and pinch strength, with Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) as secondary outcome measure. These were assessed on the affected arm at recruitment, then 4 (W4), 12 (W12) and 24 weeks (W24) afterwards.

Results:

Post-hoc analysis showed that the electrical stimulation group had greater improvements than the control group in hand grip ( P = 0.015) and pinch strength ( P = 0.007) at W4, with the gains maintained at W12 and W24. In contrast, the placebo-electrical stimulation group did not differ from either the control or the electrical stimulation group. Between-group improvements in ARAT scores from baseline to W24 (by 16.8 in control, 27.6 in placebo-electrical stimulation group and 26.3 in electrical stimulation group) were not significant.

Conclusions:

Adding four weeks of electrical stimulation during acute stroke appears to produce greater and longer lasting hand grip and pinch strength improvements than administering conventional rehabilitation alone.
The role of mineralocorticoid receptor function in treatment-resistant depression
Authors: Juruena Mario F , Pariante Carmine M , Papadopoulos Andrew S , Poon Lucia , Lightman Stafford , Cleare Anthony J
Published: August 2013

Background:

Treatment-resistant depression patients show both reduced glucocorticoid receptor function and a hyperactive hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. However, few studies have examined the role of the mineralocorticoid receptor. This study aimed to evaluate the functional activity of the mineralocorticoid receptor system in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in well-defined treatment-resistant depression patients.

Material and method:

We recruited 24 subjects divided into: (a) treatment-resistant depression; (b) healthy controls. We evaluated: (a) the effect of combined glucocorticoid receptor/mineralocorticoid receptor stimulation with prednisolone; (b) the effect of prednisolone with the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist spironolactone; and (c) the effect of spironolactone alone. The response of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis was measured using salivary cortisol and plasma levels of drugs were also measured.

Results:

Treatment-resistant depression patients had higher cortisol compared with controls after all challenges. In controls, spironolactone increased cortisol compared to placebo. The co-administration of spironolactone with prednisolone in controls decreases the suppressive effects of prednisolone. In contrast, in treatment-resistant depression, spironolactone did not increase cortisol compared to placebo and spironolactone with prednisolone had no effect on the suppressive effects of prednisolone. Patients with treatment-resistant depression had a reduction in the conversation of spironolactone to the active metabolite canrenone.

Conclusion:

Our data confirmed that treatment-resistant depression is associated with hypercortisolism and these patients no longer show an hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal response to the administration of a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, suggesting that there is a mineralocorticoid receptor malfunctioning, such as a down regulation, however, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in these subjects could also have had an effect on the lack of mineralocorticoid receptor response.
Tryptophan: The key to boosting brain serotonin synthesis in depressive illness
Authors: Badawy Abdulla A-B
Published: August 2013

It has been proposed that focusing on brain serotonin synthesis can advance antidepressant drug development. Biochemical aspects of the serotonin deficiency in major depressive disorder (MDD) are discussed here in detail. The deficiency is caused by a decreased availability of the serotonin precursor tryptophan (Trp) to the brain. This decrease is caused by accelerated Trp degradation, most likely induced by enhancement of the hepatic enzyme tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) by glucocorticoids and/or catecholamines. Induction of the extrahepatic Trp-degrading enzyme indolylamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) by the modest immune activation in MDD has not been demonstrated and, if it occurs, is unlikely to make a significant contribution. Liver TDO appears to be a target of many antidepressants, the mood stabilisers Li+ and carbamazepine and possibly other adjuncts to antidepressant therapy. The poor, variable and modest antidepressant efficacy of Trp is due to accelerated hepatic Trp degradation, and efficacy can be restored or enhanced by combination with antidepressants or other existing or new TDO inhibitors. Enhancing Trp availability to the brain is thus the key to normalisation of serotonin synthesis and could form the basis for future antidepressant drug development.
Endovascular embolization strategy for renal arteriovenous malformations
Authors: Murata Satoru , Onozawa Shiro , Nakazawa Ken , Akiba Ayako , Mine Takahiko , Ueda Tatsuo , Yasui Daisuke , Sugihara Fumie , Kondoh Yukihiro , Kumita Shin-ichiro
Published: August 2013

Background

Renal arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are rare vascular malformations that cause hematuria. Treatment for renal AVMs has evolved from open nephrectomy to transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE).

Purpose

To retrospectively evaluate efficacy and adverse events of TAE for renal AVMs.

Material and Methods

We examined 12 patients (three men, nine women; mean age, 56 years) with renal AVM with gross hematuria, who underwent 14 sessions of treatment, using various embolization materials (liquid embolization agents, gelatin sponge, and coils). Among the 12 patients, 10 had cirsoid AVMs, eight of which were high-flow lesions. The remaining two patients had aneurismal AVMs. We assessed technical and clinical success, and also complications. All patients were followed for 7–92 months (mean, 48 months).

Results

Technical success was obtained in all patients. Primary clinical success was obtained in all patients; however, recurrence was observed in two patients who were treated with coils alone. A second session of TAE led to the sustained relief of symptoms. Clinical success rate was significant better ( P = 0.045) when coils combined with other agents or liquid agents were used, than when only coils were used. No major complications occurred in any of patients; post-embolization syndrome and deterioration of renal function were not observed.

Conclusion

TAE treatment was safe, effective, and provided a good outcome, except when only coils were used as the embolization agent.
Outcome and predictive factors of successful transarterial embolization for the treatment of acute gastrointestinal hemorrhage
Authors: Hongsakul Keerati , Pakdeejit Songklod , Tanutit Pramot
Published: August 2013

Background

Transarterial embolization (TAE) is an effective procedure for the treatment of acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). Factors associated with clinical success have not been well delineated.

Purpose

To evaluate the technical and clinical successes of TAE for acute GIB in order to identify factors influencing clinical success and in-hospital mortality.

Material and Methods

This was a retrospective study of 70 consecutive patients with GIB who underwent angiography and embolization between January 2004 and December 2011. The technical success rate, clinical success rate, and in-hospital mortality were calculated by percentage. Clinical parameters, angiographic, and embolization data were assessed for factors influencing clinical success and in-hospital survival using univariate and multivariate analysis. Statistical significance was set at P value <0.05.

Results

The technical success rate was 98.6%. The primary clinical success rate was 71.4% and the secondary clinical success rate after repeat embolization was 78.6%. Bowel infarction was the most serious complication of three (4.3%) patients. Failure to achieve 30-day hemostasis can be predicted in patients who have one or more of the following factors: hemoglobin concentration <8 g/dL ( P = 0.004), coagulopathy ( P = 0.005), upper GIB ( P = 0.02), contrast extravasation ( P = 0.012), and more than one embolized vessel ( P = 0.005). In-hospital survival is affected by the amount of transfused packed red blood cells before embolization ( P = 0.008) and post-embolization bowel infarction ( P = 0.005).

Conclusion

TAE is a feasible and effective management of acute GIB with high technical and clinical success rates. The factors influencing clinical success include hemoglobin concentration, coagulopathy, upper GIB, contrast extravasation, and more than one embolized vessel. The number of units of transfused packed red blood cells and post-embolization bowel infarction are important factors associated with in-hospital mortality.
Detection of circulating tumour cells in gastric and hepatocellular carcinoma: A systematic review
Authors: Gao Ping , Jiao Shun-Chang , Bai Li , Wang Huan , Jing Fang-Fang , Yang Jun-Lan
Published: August 2013

Objective

This systematic review was conducted to summarize the use of circulating tumour cell (CTC) detection as a prognostic indicator in gastric cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Databases (MEDLINE®, EMBASE®, SCOPUS, Web of Science, Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov) were searched to identify studies that reported the detection of CTCs in patients with gastric cancer or HCC.

Results

Fifteen studies in patients with gastric cancer and 10 studies in patients with HCC, with a total of 793 and 577 patients, respectively, met the specific inclusion criteria for further analysis. Heterogeneity and potential bias among the studies prevented any statistical analysis.

Conclusion

Several methodological techniques have allowed the detection of CTCs in patients with gastric cancer or HCC, but the studies identified in this report generally reported on small cohorts and there was heterogeneity and potential bias in the studies. This highlights the need for large systematic multicentre clinical trials to confirm the potential prognostic benefit of detecting CTCs in patients with cancer.
Frightened by the stage or by the public? Exploring the multidimensionality of music performance anxiety
Authors: Sârbescu Paul , Dorgo Mǎdǎlina
Published: August 2013

The multidimensionality of Music Performance Anxiety (MPA) was examined in this study. Three related dimensions were identified: Somatic and Cognitive Features, Performance Context and Performance Evaluation. Although MPA has been widely studied in the last 20 years, it has been regarded mainly as unidimensional. A sample of 134 high school music students was tested using the Music Performance Anxiety Inventory for Adolescents (Osborne & Kenny, 2005), and The International Personality Item Pool (Goldberg, 1992). Confirmatory factor analysis supported the existence of three correlated MPA factors. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that both the pattern of predictors and the variance explained was different in the three MPA dimensions. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) revealed that girls scored higher only on Somatic and Cognitive Features. Overall, our results support the multidimensionality of MPA, pointing out that our understanding of this disorder could be enhanced by treating it as multi-, rather than unidimensional.
Performance anxiety in adolescent musicians
Authors: Thomas Jason P. , Nettelbeck Ted
Published: August 2013

Ninety secondary school music students (49 females, 41 males aged 12–18 years) from four Adelaide metropolitan schools with selective music programmes completed the Music Performance Anxiety Inventory for Adolescents (MPAI-A), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Junior Eysenck Personality Questionnaire Revised Short Form, and Adolescent Coping Scale Short Form. Females reported significantly more music performance anxiety (MPA) than males. Trait anxiety and neuroticism were significantly positively correlated with MPA and extraversion was significantly negatively correlated with MPA. Unproductive coping strategies were significantly positively correlated with MPA, but no significant association was found between MPA and productive coping strategies. Hierarchical regression analysis found that, after controlling for intercorrelations among variables, trait anxiety was the strongest significant predictor of MPA. Correlations between MPA with neuroticism and with extraversion were significantly accounted for by trait anxiety. The MPAI-A may hold promise as a screening tool for the early identification of potential MPA.
Contemporary Meaning of European Landscape
Authors: Milani Raffaele
Published: August 2013

Landscape is analyzed here principally in terms of its aesthetic value and function. As an expression of a sentimental response it is concerned not only with natural beauty but also the world of human beings, since it has always been integral to the creativity of our visionary sensibility. In it we find ethical truth since we celebrate not only the wildness of nature but also the life-space that unifies human beings and the site of the contingent and the possible, that which Aristotle referred to as endekhomenon. Modern history serves as a starting point for an examination of the present significance of the landscape in Europe. The image of its countless particulars and nature’s “spiritual physiognomy” seem to respond to the full spectrum of our most intimate emotions; we are convinced that something that transcends the vast panorama of discrete elements must exist, namely the landscape. It is more than the sum of the parts, the individual fragments of our perception scattered along the continuum of our sensibility or the attraction of mental processes. It is the spirit of an infinite and magical connectedness of forms. The notion of landscape and beautiful landscape develops both in history and in individuals, bound up with the rhythm of lines and surfaces that human beings invent almost instinctively. It is the outcome of the art of culture, the poesis of individuals and communities.
Moms and Dads Count in a Prevention Program for Kindergarten Children With Behavior Problems
Authors: Besnard Thérèse , Verlaan Pierrette , Vitaro Frank , Capuano France , Poulin Francois
Published: August 2013

The study measured the added effect of father participation in the parent-training component of a violence and school dropout prevention program on quality of parenting practices (from self-report and direct observation) and level of kindergarten child behavior problem (CBP; from teacher and mother report). Pre- and post-test evaluations were conducted with three groups (a) MF: both mother and father participating ( n = 37); (b) M: mother only participating ( n = 13); and (c) C: control group ( n = 18 mother–father pairs). Maternal parenting practices improved in the MF group but deteriorated in the M and C groups, whereas paternal parenting practices remained unchanged in the MF group but deteriorated in the C group. Overall, father participation had no short-term effect on CBPs; the children in all three groups improved their behavior. Results confirm the importance of stepping up efforts to implicate both parents in prevention programs for disruptive children.
The Opinions of Experts
Authors: Brown Duncan
Published: August 2013

Rather than just sitting and wringing our hands over the effects of widening income inequality, what if anything can governments and individuals actually do about it? Using data and examples from the United Kingdom, the author describes how restricting high pay inflation, increasing low pay and even pay redistribution are all possible strategies to help resolve this damaging social and economic phenomenon.1
Can multiple streams predict the territorial cohesion debate in the EU?
Authors: Sarmiento-Mirwaldt Katja
Published: August 2013

This article contributes to the debate over the fashionable but contested concept of ‘territorial cohesion’ in the European Union. Scholars have long recognised and traced discursive shifts in EU territorial development policies, but theoretical accounts of the drivers and parameters of such shifts are rare. This article applies the multiple streams model of agenda-setting to the territorial cohesion debate in order to explore how useful this model is in analysing and predicting the outcome of a debate. The article is structured according to the three ‘streams’ that are relevant to agenda-setting: problems, policies and politics. The analysis relies on the responses to the 2008 Green Paper on Territorial Cohesion in order to determine how politically feasible different policy solutions are. More recent developments such as the Territorial Agenda 2020 and the European Commission’s proposals for Cohesion Policy for 2014–2020 are then used to assess the predictive power of multiple streams. It is shown that the model successfully predicts the endurance of solidarity-based cohesion goals, the emergence of territorial capital as a key policy solution, and the rejection of geographical criteria for the allocation of EU Structural Funds. At the same time, the multiple streams model fails to predict the introduction of spatial planning tools into EU cohesion policy. This shows that explaining a substantial redefinition of existing policy terms requires some reference to key actors’ broader discursive strategies. The article concludes that the multiple streams model has some predictive and explanatory power; criticisms of the model as overly descriptive are exaggerated.