bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responses of the Rat Olfactory Epithelium to Retronasal Air Flow
Authors: Scott John W. , Acevedo Humberto P. , Sherrill Lisa , Phan Maggie
Published: January 2007

Responses of the rat olfactory epithelium were assessed with the electroolfactogram while odorants were presented to the external nares with an artificial sniff or to the internal nares by positive pressure. A series of seven odorants that varied from very polar, hydrophilic odorants to very nonpolar, hydrophobic odorants were used. Although the polar odorants activated the dorsal olfactory epithelium when presented by the external nares (orthonasal presentation), they were not effective when forced through the nasal cavity from the internal nares (retronasal presentation). However, the nonpolar odorants were effective in both stimulus modes. These results were independent of stimulus concentration or of humidity of the carrier air. Similar results were obtained with multiunit recordings from olfactory bulb. These results help to explain why human investigations often report differences in the sensation or ability to discriminate odorants presented orthonasally versus retronasally. The results also strongly support the importance of odorant sorption in normal olfactory processes.
Evidence for Electrical Coupling in the SubCoeruleus (SubC) Nucleus
Authors: Heister David S. , Hayar Abdallah , Charlesworth Amanda , Yates Charlotte , Zhou Yi-Hong , Garcia-Rill Edgar
Published: January 2007

SubCoeruleus (SubC) neurons, which are thought to modulate rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep, were recorded in brain stem slices from 7- to 20-day rats and found to manifest spikelets, indicative of electrical coupling. Spikelets occurred spontaneously or could be induced by superfusion of the cholinergic agonist carbachol. Whole cell recordings revealed that carbachol induced membrane oscillations and spikelets in the theta frequency range in SubC neurons in the presence of fast synaptic blockers. Electrical coupling in neurons is mediated by the gap junction protein connexin 36 (Cx 36). We found that Cx 36 gene expression and protein in the mesopontine tegmentum decreased during development. Cx 36 protein levels specifically in the SubC decreased in concert with the developmental decrease in REM sleep. The presence of electrical coupling in the SubC introduces a novel potential mechanism of action for the regulation of sleep-wake states.
Robust Multipoint Simultaneous Identical-by-Descent Mapping for Two Linked Loci
Authors: Lin Wan-Yu , Schaid Daniel J.
Published: January 2007

A challenging issue in genetic mapping of complex human diseases is localizing disease susceptibility genes when the genetic effects are small to moderate. There are greater complexities when multiple loci are linked to a chromosomal region. Liang et al. [Hum Hered 2001;51:64–78] proposed a robust multipoint method that can simultaneously estimate both the position of a trait locus and its effect on disease status by using affected sib pairs (ASPs). Based on the framework of generalized estimating equations (GEEs), the estimate and standard error of the position of a trait locus are robust to different genetic models. To utilize other relative pairs collected in pedigree data, Schaid et al. [Am J Hum Genet 2005;76:128–138] extended Liang’s method to various types of affected relative pairs (ARPs) by two approaches: unconstrained and constrained methods. However, the above methods are limited to situations in which only one trait locus exists on the chromosome of interest. The mean functions are no longer correctly specified when there are multiple causative loci linked to a chromosomal region. To overcome this, Biernacka et al. [Genet Epidemiol 2005;28:33–47] considered the multipoint methods for ASPs to allow for two linked disease genes. We further generalize the approach to cover other types of ARPs. To reflect realistic situations for complex human diseases, we set modest sizes of genetic effects in our simulation. Our results suggest that several hundred independent pedigrees are needed, and markers with high information, to provide reliable estimates of trait locus positions and their confidence intervals. Bootstrap resampling can correct the downward bias of the robust variance for location estimates. These methods are applied to a prostate cancer linkage study on chromosome 20 and compared with the results for the one-locus model [Am J Hum Genet 2005;76:128–138]. We have implemented the multipoint IBD mapping for one and two linked loci in our software GEEARP, which allows analyses for five general types of ARPs.
Marcel Proust’s Lifelong Tour of the Parisian Neurological Intelligentsia: From Brissaud and Dejerine to Sollier and Babinski
Authors: Bogousslavsky Julien
Published: January 2007

In Search of Lost Time, the main novel of Marcel Proust (1871–1922) gives prominence to medicine, especially to neurology. Proust possessed excellent medical knowledge and maintained lifelong contact with neurologists. From 1881 onward, he experienced recurrent attacks of asthma, a condition which, at the time, was considered belonging to ‘neurasthenia’. Marcel’s father, Adrien Proust, was a famous physician who had written papers on stroke, aphasia, hysteria and neurasthenia, and who introduced his son to Charcot’s pupil, Edouard Brissaud, the founder of the Revue Neurologique. Three years later, Brissaud published a landmark book on asthma with a preface by Adrien Proust. In 1905, when Proust intended to undergo a ‘cure’ in order to improve his asthma and other symptoms, he first considered treatment by Jules Dejerine, who was to become Charcot’s second successor. He also considered two Swiss physicians who had studied with Charcot and Vulpian: Henry Auguste Widmer, founder of the Clinique Valmont above Montreux, and Paul Dubois, a schoolmate of Dejerine, who practiced in Berne. Brissaud recommended Paul Sollier, under whose care Proust followed a 6-week ‘isolation cure’; Sollier, along with Babinski, was considered the cleverest of Charcot’s followers. He had studied memory extensively, in particular affective memory, which caused him to reject Bergson’s theories and now makes his work a major precursor. Sollier attempted to trigger ‘emotional revivals’ (reviviscences), ‘reproducing the entire state of the personality of the subject at the time of the initial experience’. This concept was integrated by Proust into his novel, with emphasis on ‘involuntary memory’. Proust’s last neurologist was Joseph Babinski, whom he consulted repeatedly because he feared becoming aphasic, like his mother. Proust’s unusual life journey with the most celebrated neurologists of his time highlights aspects of his literary work and also provides a unique perspective on the neurological intelligentsia at the turn of the 19th century.
Dementia and Art: Neuronal Intermediate Filament Inclusion Disease and Dissolution of Artistic Creativity
Authors: Budrys Valmantas , Skullerud Kari , Petroska Donatas , Lengveniene Jurate , Kaubrys Gintaras
Published: January 2007

The paper presents a new case of neuronal intermediate filament inclusion disease (NIFID), a recently described new variant of early-onset frontotemporal dementia. Documented with repetitive brain images, morphologically proven cases additionally endorse evolving the clinical and pathological phenotype of NIFID. For the first time the paper describes the probable influence of NIFID on the artistic creativity of an accomplished artist showing rapid dissolution of artistic talent.
Arterial Hypertension in Patients with Left Primary Hemifacial Spasm Is Associated with Neurovascular Compression of the Left Rostral Ventrolateral Medulla
Authors: Nakamura Tomomi , Osawa Mikio , Uchiyama Shinichiro , Iwata Makoto
Published: January 2007

The aim of the study was to clarify the relationship between neurovascular compression of the rostral ventrolateral medulla and arterial hypertension in patients with primary hemifacial spasm. We enrolled 82 patients with primary hemifacial spasm and 82 age- and sex-matched magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) controls of the posterior cranial fossa. Neurovascular compression of the rostral ventrolateral medulla was assessed by MRI, and its association with arterial hypertension was investigated. No significant differences were found in prevalence of arterial hypertension between patients with primary hemifacial spasm and control subjects (39.0 vs. 29.3%, p = 0.19). Thirty-two percent of the patients with left primary hemifacial spasm (n = 44) and 47% of the patients with right primary hemifacial spasm (n = 38) were hypertensive. Neurovascular compression of the left rostral ventrolateral medulla was observed in 86% of those with left (ipsilateral) primary hemifacial spasm with arterial hypertension (n = 14) and 33% of those with left (ipsilateral) primary hemifacial spasm without (n = 30). The association between neurovascular compression of the left rostral ventrolateral medulla and arterial hypertension was significant in patients with left (ipsilateral) primary hemifacial spasm (p = 0.0012), but not in patients with right (contralateral) primary hemifacial spasm (p = 0.18). Neurovascular compression of the left rostral ventrolateral medulla was more frequently observed in hypertensive patients with left primary hemifacial spasm, and neurovascular compression of the left rostral ventrolateral medulla correlated with arterial hypertension in these patients. These results are of potential clinical importance for the treatment of primary hemifacial spasm with arterial hypertension.
Utility of Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy for Retrieval of Aspirated Headscarf Pins
Authors: Al-Ali Musa A.K. , Khassawneh Basheer , Alzoubi Firas
Published: January 2007

Background: Headscarf pin aspiration is a common and unique form of foreign body aspiration among young Moslem women. Rigid bronchoscopy (RB) is considered the standard procedure for retrieval. There are little data on the role of flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) in the retrieval of aspirated headscarf pins. Objectives: The aim of this study is to prospectively evaluate the utility of FOB for the retrieval of aspirated headscarf pins. Methods: Patients with the diagnosis of headscarf pin aspiration admitted to King Abdullah University Hospital from December 2002 to December 2005 were included in the study. Standard FOB procedure under local anesthesia and conscious sedation was performed as the primary tool for retrieval. Results: A total of 16 cases was admitted during the study period. The mean age was 19 years. The aspirated pin was successfully retrieved in 9/16 cases (56%) during the first attempt of FOB. In another 3 cases, although the pin was successfully retrieved from the bronchial tree, it was lost in the throat and swallowed, and then recovered by esophagogastroduodenoscopy. However, FOB was not successful in 4/16 cases. In 3 cases, the aspirated pins were successfully retrieved by RB under general anesthesia and the fourth case required thoracotomy. Conclusions: Headscarf pin aspiration is a relatively common form of foreign body aspiration among young Moslem Jordanian women. FOB under local anesthesia can be a useful first-step tool in retrieval, provided facilities for esophagogastroduodenoscopy and RB are readily available.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1, Leptin, Body Composition, and Clinical Status Interactions in Children with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Boguszewski Margaret C.S. , Kamoi Tsukiyo Obu , Bento Radominski Rosana , Boguszewski Cesar Luiz , Rosberg Sten , Filho Nelson Augusto Rosário , Sandrini Neto Romolo , Albertsson-Wikland Kerstin
Published: January 2007

Background/Aims: Children with cystic fibrosis (CF) are of increased risk of reduced fat body mass (FBM) and lean body mass (LBM). Serum concentrations of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1)and leptin could be markers of LBM and/or FBM depletion. To evaluate the relationships between disease activity, body composition, IGF-1and leptin concentrations in CF children. Methods: A cross-sectional study with 26 CF children aged 5.0–15.5 years and 33 healthy controls, mean age 9.4 years. Body composition was evaluated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Fasting blood samples were analyzed for leptin, IGF-1and IGFBP-3. Results: FBM standard deviation score (SDS; CF boys –0.02 ± 0.88 vs. 0.78 ± 0.65, p < 0.01; CF girls –0.37 ± 1.15 vs. 0.70 ± 0.97, p < 0.05), leptin concentration (CF boys 2.07 ± 0.79 vs. 3.07 ± 1.28 ng/ml, p < 0.05; CF girls 2.71 ± 0.86 vs. 5.00 ± 2.95 ng/ml, p < 0.05) and IGF-1SDS (CF boys –1.43 ± 1.50 vs. –0.32 ± 0.88, p < 0.05; CF girls –0.66 ± 1.66 vs. 0.64 ± 0.57, p < 0.01) were lower in CF children compared to controls. Shwachman score was the strongest predictor of lean body mass (R = 0.63). Leptin levels explain 60% of the variability in FBM. Conclusion: Serum concentrations of IGF-1 and leptin are decreased in children with CF and are associated with clinical conditions and body composition.
Effect of Dietary Chromium on Resistance Artery Function and Nitric Oxide Signaling in the Sucrose-Fed Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat
Authors: Kopilas Melanie A. , Dang Lam N.T. , Anderson Hope D.I.
Published: January 2007

Background: Consumption of high-glycemic index foods contributes to the development of hypertension in some patients. Likewise, in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), high sucrose promotes a secondary rise in systolic blood pressure (SBP). Chromium (III) (Cr3+) prevents sucrose-induced hypertension, but leaves the basal hypertension that characterizes SHR intact. Methods: Since hypertension entails increased peripheral resistance, we compared effects of Cr3+ on resistance arteries from SHR fed low-glycemic (starch) versus high-glycemic (sucrose) index diets. Subgroups of SHR also received Cr3+. Structure, stiffness, and vasodilation of mesenteric resistance arteries were studied using pressurized myography. Results: Sucrose increased SBP in SHR and, exclusively in sucrose-fed SHR, Cr3+ reduced SBP and augmented acetylcholine or nitroprusside-dependent vasodilation. Neither sucrose nor Cr3+ affected artery structure or stiffness. Since Cr3+ enhanced vasodilation, we assessed endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), guanylate cyclase, cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG-1α and 1β), and PKG activity by immunoblotting. Sucrose reduced eNOS, PKG-1β, and PKG activity. Cr3+ prevented the effects of sucrose on NO signaling. Conclusion: In hypertension exacerbated by high-glycemic index diet, Cr3+ reduces SBP. The BP-lowering effect of Cr3+, selectively on sucrose-induced but not basal hypertension in SHR, involves at least in part, improving vasodilatory function vis-à-vis restoration of NO signaling in resistance arteries.
Lifelong Course of Positive and Negative Symptoms in Chronically Institutionalized Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Mancevski Branislav , Keilp John , Kurzon Matthew , Berman Robert M. , Ortakov Vladimir , Harkavy-Friedman Jill , Rosoklija Gorazd , Dwork Andrew J.
Published: January 2007

Background: Despite widespread policies of deinstitutionalization, a substantial number of patients with schizophrenia require continuous custodial care. The hospital records of such patients provide contemporaneous documentation of symptoms throughout the illness, permitting a longitudinal study of the course of symptoms. We sought to describe this course, and to determine the influences of sex, age of onset, and treatment on its evolution. Methods: Using the modified Diagnostic Evaluation After Death, we performed standardized chart reviews of 99 chronic inpatients who remained in state institutions through the 1960’s and 1970’s and subsequently died in those institutions. Data were available from the onset of illness until death. Results: We found significant decreases in positive symptoms and increases in negative symptoms over the course of the illness. Symptom patterns were analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA. Onset before age 25 was associated with greater numbers of negative symptoms at a given age (p = 0.05). Female sex was associated with greater numbers of positive symptoms (p = 0.04). The widespread introduction of neuroleptic drugs in the mid-1950’s did not affect the trends in symptom patterns. Conclusions: The lifetime course of schizophrenia in chronically institutionalized individuals is characterized by a decrease in positive symptoms and an increase in negative symptoms. Schizophrenia with earlier onset is associated with greater numbers of negative symptoms throughout life. In this sample of patients, chronically hospitalized until death, neuroleptic drugs failed to effect a persistent decrease in positive symptoms.
A Psychometric Evaluation of the German Version of the ‘Health of the Nation Outcome Scales, HoNOS-D’: On the Feasibility and Reliability of Clinician-Performed Measurements of Severity in Patients with Mental Disorders
Authors: Andreas Sylke , Harfst Timo , Dirmaier Jörg , Kawski Stephan , Koch Uwe , Schulz Holger
Published: January 2007

Background: The assessment of the severity of a mental illness is a central component in the treatment of patients with mental disorders in both the in- and outpatient settings. In Great Britain, the ‘Health of the Nation Outcome Scales, HoNOS’ were developed to assess the health and social functioning of patients with mental disorders. Aims: To examine the psychometric properties, especially the feasibility and reliability, of a German version of the HoNOS (HoNOS-D) and to thus provide international data for the comparison of different mental health services. Sampling and Methods: The HoNOS was translated into German (HoNOS-D) in an extensive and multilayered consensus procedure. The HoNOS-D was then reviewed within the framework of a pilot study on quality assurance measures implemented by the German statutory health insurance institutes in 11 hospitals. Assessments were made of the psychometric qualities of feasibility and reliability using a representative sample of patients with mental and behavioral disorders. Results: An analysis of the feasibility of the HoNOS-D showed a range of missing values between 1.3 and 4.5% for 11 of the 12 items. An item analysis showed that three items of the HoNOS-D are particularly positively skewed. In most instances, the individual items of the rating scale exhibited only slight correlations to each other. With regard to retest reliability, satisfactory intraclass correlations between 0.80 and 0.91 were seen for 9 of the 12 items. Conclusions: The authors of the original version of the HoNOS [Wing et al.:Br J Psychiatry 1998;172:11–18] primarily emphasized the feasibility of the instrument and the independence of the individual items and dimensions. The analysis of the missing values showed satisfactory results for feasibility. The intercorrelation matrix of the individual items also exhibited only few correlations >0.30. The retest reliability also proves to be satisfactory for the majority of the items. The narrow distribution of some of the items must be critically discussed in comparison to analyses of results in other countries (e.g. Great Britain) and other settings (e.g. inpatient psychiatric hospitals or outpatient psychotherapy).
Psychometric Properties of the Borderline Symptom List (BSL)
Authors: Bohus Martin , Limberger Matthias F. , Frank Ulrike , Chapman Alexander L. , Kühler Thomas , Stieglitz Rolf-Dieter
Published: January 2007

Background: The Borderline Symptom List (BSL) was developed as a self-rating instrument to specifically quantify borderline-typical symptomatology. The items are based on the criteria of the DSM-IV, the Diagnostic Interview for Borderline Personality Disorder – revised version, the opinions of clinical experts and borderline patients. The psychometric properties and validity of the BSL have been investigated in several studies. Sampling and Methods: A total of 380 borderline patients and 204 healthy controls scored the items. A factor analysis of the BSL items suggests the following subscales: ‘self-perception’, ‘affect regulation’, ‘self-destruction’, ‘dysphoria’, ‘loneliness’, ‘intrusions’ and ‘hostility’. Results: Theinternal reliability as well as the test-retest reliability within 1 week are high. Different aspects of validity (e.g. comparison between groups) provide favorable results. Pre-post comparisons after 3 months of dialectical behavioral treatment reveal a significant reduction of the total score and of 5 of the 7 subscales. Conclusions: This indicates that the BSL is sensitive to therapeutically induced change of borderline-typical impairment.
Predictive Value of 6-Month Decline in ADAS-cog for Survival without Severe Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Helmer Catherine , Andrieu Sandrine , Pérès Karine , Orgogozo Jean-Marc , Vellas Bruno , Dartigues Jean-François
Published: January 2007

Background/Aims: To determine the predictive value of the 6-month evolution of the ADAS-cog score in initially mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients on the risk of death or severe dementia (MMSE <10) within 2 years. Methods: Cognition was assessed every 6 months using the ADAS-cog scale in the Real.fr study, a cohort of AD patients. Six classes of ADAS-cog evolution were distinguished, from the severest deterioration (decline ≧7 points) to the greatest cognitive improvement (gain ≧4 points). Results: Among 536 AD patients, 53 (9.9%) had a 6-month decline of 7 points or more. This group with the severest deterioration was significantly associated with the risk of severe dementia or death at 2 years (relative risk, RR = 3.8, 95% confidence interval, CI = 2.1–6.8), even after adjustment for baseline MMSE, disability and ADAS-cog score (RR = 2.6, 95% CI = 1.4–5.0). In addition, subjects with a decline by at least 4 points were also at greater risk of severe dementia. Conclusion: These results confirm the value of the ADAS-cog scale as a judgement criterion in clinical trials since it is a good surrogate marker of long-term prognosis. The proportion of fast decliners on the ADAS-cog could be a helpful judgement criterion for future trials in AD.
Simplified Electrodiagnostic Criteria of Diabetic Polyneuropathy in Field Study (KCIS No. 14)
Authors: Hsu Wei-Chih , Chiu Yueh-Hsia , Chen Wei-Hung , Chiu Hou-Chang , Liou Horng-Huei , Chen Tony Hsiu-Hsi
Published: January 2007

This study sought to determine the sensitivity of sural sensory action amplitude (SAP) and peroneal motor conduction velocity (MCV) for differentiating the status of other nerve conduction velocities and identifying important correlates of diabetic polyneuropathy. Subjects (n = 708) with type 2 diabetes from one community completed a preliminary questionnaire. Among the 298 subjects with positive questionnaire results, 272 completed nerve conduction tests. The means of 6 nerve conduction velocities of subjects with both SAP and MCV abnormalities were compared to those of normal controls. The mean conduction velocities of all motor and sensory nerves were slower (p < 0.05) in subjects with polyneuropathy than without polyneuropathy. Important known correlates of diabetic polyneuropathy can also be identified by this electrophysiological definition. The sural SAP and peroneal MCV together serve as a good diagnostic for diabetic polyneuropathy and can be used as a simplified criterion in field studies.
Reactive Oxygen Metabolites: A Link between Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Patients on Hemodialysis
Authors: Samouilidou E. , Grapsa E. , Karpouza A. , Lagouranis A.
Published: January 2007

Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the development of inflammation in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). This study intends to evaluate the relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP) and the newly established marker of lipid peroxidation, d-ROMs (reactive oxygen metabolites), in comparison with different indicators of oxidative stress. Plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC), lipid peroxidation products malonaldehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxyalkenals, as well as d-ROMs, were determined in 24 patients before HD and in 21 normal controls (NC). It was found that HD patients had higher levels of d-ROMs than NC (p = 0.033). A highly significant positive correlation was observed between logCRP and d-ROMs concentrations (p < 0.0001, r = 0.85) in patients, but not in NC. The concentrations of TAC and MDA were not associated with CRP in HD or in NC individuals. It is concluded that d-ROMs concentration is a potent marker of oxidative injury that is strongly indicative of the inflammatory status in HD patients.
Hepcidin in Anemia and Inflammation in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Malyszko Jolanta , Mysliwiec Michal
Published: January 2007

Maintaining the correct iron balance is crucial for health. Our understanding of the molecular control of iron metabolism has increased dramatically over the past 5 years due to the discovery of hepcidin. This is a circulating antimicrobial peptide mainly synthesized in the liver, which has been recently proposed as a factor regulating the uptake of dietary iron and its mobilization from macrophages and hepatic stores. Inflammation causes an increase of production of hepcidin, which is a potent mediator of anemia of chronic diseases. Anemia in chronic kidney disease is mainly due to erythropoietin deficiency but these patients often have a chronic inflammatory state. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge dealing with a possible role of hepcidin in iron metabolism and its regulation, particularly in kidney disease. In addition, current methods of determination of hepcidin are reviewed.
Impact of Ergocalciferol Treatment of Vitamin D Deficiency on Serum Parathyroid Hormone Concentrations in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zisman Anna L. , Hristova Marta , Ho L. Tammy , Sprague Stuart M.
Published: January 2007

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent and associated with secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/DOQI) guidelines recommend treatment of vitamin D deficiency starting with CKD stage 3, though no data are available showing an impact on serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentrations. The goal of this analysis, therefore, was to determine the effect of ergocalciferol treatment on plasma PTH concentrations in vitamin D-deficient patients with stage 3 and stage 4 CKD. Methods: A prospective, nonrandomized observational analysis was conducted in an academic community hospital CKD clinic. Fifty-two patients with stage 3 or stage 4 CKD with vitamin D deficiency and elevated PTH concentrations received ergocalciferol dosed per a modified K/DOQI guidelines protocol and adjusted every 3 months. Serum PTH, 25-vitamin D, 1,25-vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, and albumin levels were drawn at initiation of therapy and repeated every 3 months. Results: The mean 25-vitamin D levels normalized in patients with stage 3 and 4 CKD, with values of 31.6 ± 2.2 ng/ml (78.8 ± 5.49 nmol/l) and 35.4 ± 1.9 ng/ml (88.4 ± 4.74 nmol/l), respectively (p < 0.0001). A median decrease in PTH concentrations of 13.1 and 2.0% was noted in patients with stage 3 and stage 4 CKD, respectively (p = 0.041, p = nonsignificant). Conclusions: Ergocalciferol therapy is a reasonable initial therapy for vitamin D deficiency associated with elevated PTH levels in stage 3 CKD. It does not appear to have equivalent benefits in stage 4 CKD.
Characterizing Land–Atmosphere Coupling and the Implications for Subsurface Thermodynamics
Authors: Stieglitz Marc , Smerdon Jason E.
Published: January 2007

The objective of this work is to develop a Simple Land-Interface Model (SLIM) that captures the seasonal and interannual behavior of land–atmosphere coupling, as well as the subsequent subsurface temperature evolution. The model employs the one-dimensional thermal diffusion equation driven by a surface flux boundary condition. While the underlying physics is straightforward, the SLIM framework allows a qualitative understanding of the first-order controls that govern the seasonal coupling between the land and atmosphere by implicitly representing the dominant processes at the land surface. The model is used to perform a suite of experiments that demonstrate how changes in surface air temperature and coupling conditions control subsurface temperature evolution. The work presented here suggests that a collective approach employing both complex and simple models, when joined with analyses of observational data, has the potential to increase understanding of land–atmosphere coupling and the subsequent evolution of subsurface temperatures.
The Seasonal Development of an SST Anomaly in the Indian Ocean and Its Relationship to ENSO
Authors: Nagura Motoki , Konda Masanori
Published: January 2007

The seasonal development of the sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly in the Indian Ocean is investigated in relation to El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), using NOAA optimally interpolated SST and NCEP reanalysis data. The result shows that the onset season of El Niño affects the seasonal development of surface wind anomalies over the equatorial eastern Indian Ocean (EEIO); these surface wind anomalies, in turn, determine whether the SST anomaly in the EEIO evolves into the eastern pole of the dipole pattern. In years when the dipole pattern develops, surface zonal wind anomalies over the EEIO switch from westerly to easterly in spring as La Niña switches to El Niño. The seasonal zonal wind over the EEIO also switches from westerly to easterly in spring, and the anomalous wind strengthens seasonal wind from winter to summer. Stronger winds and resultant thermal forcings produce the negative SST anomaly in the EEIO in winter, and its amplitude increases in summer. The SST anomaly becomes the eastern pole of the dipole pattern in fall. In contrast, if the change from La Niña to El Niño is delayed until late summer/fall or if La Niña persists throughout the year, a westerly anomaly persists from winter to summer over the EEIO. The persistent westerly anomaly strengthens the wintertime climatological westerlies and weakens the summertime easterlies. Therefore, negative SST anomalies are produced in the EEIO in winter, but the amplitude decreases in summer, and the eastern pole is not present in fall. The above explanation also applies to onset years of La Niña if the signs of the anomalies are reversed.
Global Vegetation and Climate Change due to Future Increases in CO2 as Projected by a Fully Coupled Model with Dynamic Vegetation*
Authors: Notaro Michael , Vavrus Steve , Liu Zhengyu
Published: January 2007

Transient simulations are presented of future climate and vegetation associated with continued rising levels of CO2. The model is a fully coupled atmosphere–ocean–land–ice model with dynamic vegetation. The impacts of the radiative and physiological forcing of CO2 are diagnosed, along with the role of vegetation feedbacks. While the radiative effect of rising CO2 produces most of the warming, the physiological effect contributes additional warming by weakening the hydrologic cycle through reduced evapotranspiration. Both effects cause drying over tropical rain forests, while the radiative effect enhances Arctic and Indonesian precipitation.

A global greening trend is simulated primarily due to the physiological effect, with an increase in photosynthesis and total tree cover associated with enhanced water-use efficiency. In particular, tree cover is enhanced by the physiological effect over moisture-limited regions. Over Amazonia, South Africa, and Australia, the radiative forcing produces soil drying and reduced forest cover. A poleward shift of the boreal forest is simulated as both the radiative and physiological effects enhance vegetation growth in the northern tundra and the radiative effect induces drying and summertime heat stress on the central and southern boreal forest. Vegetation feedbacks substantially impact local temperature trends through changes in albedo and evapotranspiration. The physiological effect increases net biomass across most land areas, while the radiative effect results in an increase over the tundra and decrease over tropical forests and portions of the boreal forest.
Convective Precipitation Variability as a Tool for General Circulation Model Analysis
Authors: DeMott Charlotte A. , Randall David A. , Khairoutdinov Marat
Published: January 2007

Precipitation variability is analyzed in two versions of the Community Atmospheric Model (CAM), the standard model, CAM, and a “multiscale modeling framework” (MMF), in which the cumulus parameterization has been replaced with a cloud-resolving model. Probability distribution functions (PDFs) of daily mean rainfall in three geographic locations [the Amazon Basin and western Pacific in December–February (DJF) and the North American Great Plains in June–August (JJA)] indicate that the CAM produces too much light–moderate rainfall (10 ∼ 20 mm day−1), and not enough heavy rainfall, compared to observations. The MMF underestimates rain contributions from the lightest rainfall rates but correctly simulates more intense rainfall events. These differences are not always apparent in seasonal mean rainfall totals.

Analysis of 3–6-hourly rainfall and sounding data in the same locations reveals that the CAM produces moderately intense rainfall as soon as the boundary layer energizes. Precipitation is also concurrent with tropospheric relative humidity and lifted parcel buoyancy increases. In contrast, the MMF and observations are characterized by a lag of several hours between boundary layer energy buildup and precipitation, and a gradual increase in the depth of low-level relative humidity maximum prior to rainfall.

The environmental entrainment rate selection in the CAM cumulus parameterization influences CAM precipitation timing and intensity, and may contribute to the midlevel dry bias in that model. The resulting low-intensity rainfall in the CAM leads to rainfall–canopy vegetation interactions that are different from those simulated by the MMF. The authors present evidence suggesting that this interaction may artificially inflate North American Great Plains summertime rainfall totals in the CAM.
Imperial policy, provincial practices
Authors: Mir Farina
Published: January 2007

This article explores three interrelated themes in the history of British colonialism in nineteenth-century India by examining colonial language policy. These themes are: the tensions between imperial and provincial imperatives of colonial rule; the relationship between language and colonial governance; and the limits of colonial power. I argue in particular that the transformation in colonial language policy in the 1830s, from using Persian to using regional vernacular languages in provincial administration, was grounded in an ideology of efficient, just and legitimate rule. This shift to regional vernacular languages was implemented in all Company territories, and became a principle of the Company's rule in India. However, when the Punjab was annexed to the Company in 1849, the regional vernacular (Punjabi) was not adopted as the official language of provincial government. This article examines why language policy in the Punjab was different, arguing that the local contingencies of rule in the region trumped imperial ideology, and then examines the implications of language policy in colonial Punjab. Language policy had a profound impact on indigenous literary practices in colonial Punjab, yet this impact was in no way absolute. In marking out the arenas where colonial language policy reached its limits, this article also considers the limits of colonial power.
From Rajayak s(h)ma (‘Disease of kings’) to ‘Blackman's Plague’
Authors: Rao B. Eswara
Published: January 2007

This article attempts to conceptualise tuberculosis from a socio-historical perspective by looking into its prevalence and aetiology in the Madras Presidency. Since the last decade of the nineteenth century, the indifference of the British contributed to the tardy identification of the disease, leading to its widespread prevalence and attendant high mortality rate. Various perceptions of the disease evolved in a distinctive ‘formative process’ wherein different medical systems, institutions, political and socio-cultural realities played a vital role. Tuberculosis acquired its real meaning in a process of complex negotiation with various professions, including policymakers and the general population. It was particularly after the advent of the germ theory (discovered by Robert Koch in 1882) that the colonial state negotiated the disease primarily as a social phenomena by locating it in socio-cultural practices like early marriage, childhood, purdah, habits of the people, urban space and overcrowding. On the other hand, the economic aspects of malnutrition, poverty, poor housing conditions, etc., were explained away through an aetiological rationalisation of the disease attached with discursive meanings. This was, however, countered by indigenous medical practitioners who considered tuberculosis as an outcome of modern civilisation.
Contested claims
Authors: Sharma Mahesh
Published: January 2007

The article grapples with the period of transition from ‘native’ to colonial rule. It comprehends the crisis of political-economy in transition by contextualising certain civil cases and petitions to understand how people exploited the ambiguity between power and authority—between the ideology of ‘tradition’ and the ‘method’ of colonial institutions—to elevate their social and economic status. While the colonial institutions could empower individuals and groups economically, only ‘traditional’ authority could legitimise their revision in social status. The strategy employed by the Jogis of Chamba in Himachal Pradesh, who petitioned the Raja while simultaneously exploring the legal framework and the land settlement regime of their British masters, indicates their comprehension of the system in transition. The institutional framework of the latter empowered them, while the nominal authority of the Raja was invoked to claim social status. This strategy, of social mobility and empowerment, undergirds the transformation in the agrarianscape, and contextualises the ascendance of religious orders/leaders who cut across caste and sectarian boundaries at the time when the state was in the process of transition.
Structural Differences among Fibers from Six Cultivars of Harakeke (Phormium tenax, New Zealand flax)
Authors: Cruthers Natasha M. , Carr Debra J. , Laing Raechel M. , Niven Brian E.
Published: January 2007

The microscopic structure of muka (fiber aggregate extracted from harakeke) (observed using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy) from six selected cultivars of harakeke varied, and this may explain the differences perceived by weavers, and that different end uses are preferred for various cultivars. The dimensions of ultimate fibers ranged from 10.1 μm (Takaiapu) to 12.8 μm (Paretaniwha) in average-transverse-width and 3735 μm (Takirikau) to 4751 μm (Makaweroa) in length. The cultivars prized for muka (e.g. Arawa, Makaweroa) had the longest and finest ultimate fibers. The transverse-section shapes of fiber aggregate bundles varied among the cultivars. Tapamangu and Takaiapu had fiber bundles that were more uniformly shaped than the other cultivars studied, and Takirikau had a high yield of fiber aggregate bundles. Paretaniwha differed from the other five cultivars studied having an average number of narrow, non-uniformly shaped fiber aggregate bundles per unit width.
Individual Pattern Making Using Computerized Draping Method for Clothing
Authors: Cho Youngsook , Komatsu Takuya , Inui Shigeru , Takatera Masayuki , Shimizu Yoshio , Park Hyejun
Published: January 2007

The consumer is demanding more variety and personalization in apparel products. Personalization includes creating clothing that not only takes into account of variations in size, but also variations of the body shape itself. The traditional grading method is the current standard sizing system in the apparel industry. It starts with a base size which is then proportionally graded to create a multiple set of sizes. Although it caters for a limited number of sizes, this method does not include variations in body shape. In our research, we have developed a method of individual pattern making by modifying a traditional draping system so that it can be used in conjunction with modern three-dimensional modeling techniques. Individualized pattern making means customized pattern making for individuals. This method uses a five-step draping process. The steps are: (1) defining the surface shape; (2) setting grainlines; (3) fitting the fabric to the surface shape; (4) cutting of the three-dimensional surfaces; and (5) developing the three-dimensionally fitted fabric into a two-dimensional pattern. Our fitting process prevents or controls buckling when the limit angle of a fabric’s ability to conform to a surface is exceeded. We do this entire process using computed geometrical models, rather than physically. Therefore we believe it has the potential to be more efficient and simple than other techniques. When we used this method to make a pattern for a tight skirt, we easily created complex curved lines automatically using this development method. When test subjects compared our skirt with a traditionally designed skirt, approximately 80% of the subjects indicated a preference for our skirt. Although this paper focuses on patterns made for dummies, our future research will focus on fitting to real human body shapes.
Cotton Fiber Properties and Moisture: Influence of Variety, Area of Growth, and Crop Year
Authors: Rousselle Marie-Alice , Thibodeaux Devron P.
Published: January 2007

Southern Regional Research Center (SRRC) is participating in a multi-year area-of-growth study of selected cotton cultivars. We report here the moisture data (water of imbibition and moisture regain) on cottons from the 2001 and 2002 crop years, and compare them in terms of maturity properties and micronaire.
The Tensile Properties of Cocoon Silk of the SpiderAraneus diadematus
Authors: Van Nimmen Els , Gellynck Kris , Van Langenhove Lieva , Mertens Johan
Published: January 2007

Spider silk has attracted considerable interest in the last 10 years, because it shows a unique combination of high strength, high elongation and extreme fineness. After a general overview about known tensile properties of the different types of spider silk, the tensile properties of Araneus diadematus cocoon silk are characterized based on experimental data of five different cocoons. It is shown that A. diadematus cocoon silk has a completely different stress-strain behavior in comparison with dragline silk of the same spider species. In the second part of the study, the elastic modulus, yield strength and visco-elastic hardening were examined to determine whether they can be controlled independently of each other. It is proved that the experimental stress-strain curves can be represented effectively by just four independent parameters. Moreover, the yield region is not independent of the hardening zone. Further research on the morphology and structure of cocoon and dragline threads will be required to understand the different stress-strain behavior of both fibers.
Friction and Wear Behavior of Vinylester Resin Matrix Composites Filled with Fly Ash Particles
Authors: Ray Dipa , Gnanamoorthy R.
Published: January 2007

Fly ash filled vinylester resin matrix composites were prepared with a filler loading of 40 and 50 wt%. The friction and wear behavior of neat resin and fly ash filled composites were studied with the help of a pin-on-disc wear tester with the composite pin sliding over an abrasive sheet under three different normal loads. Wear behavior was quantified in terms of weight loss, linear wear, and coefficient of friction of the test samples; these were much higher in neat resin compared to composites. Among the composites, a better wear resistance was shown by the 40% filled composites with a lower wear loss, lesser linear wear, and a minimum value of the coefficient of friction. It was evident that the linear wear increased steadily in the case of vinylester resin with increase in sliding distance, whereas linear wear was much less and was almost constant in the composites with the increase in sliding distance under all three different normal loads. It was also observed that the difference between the coefficients of friction of the 40% and 50% filled composites decreased with the increase in the normal load. The fly ash filled vinylester resin matrix composites were thus found to be much more wear resistant than for neat resin and this behavior can be exploited for various newer applications.
Tensile Property and Heat Resistance of Polyurethane Prepolymer Reinforced Phenoxy Resin
Authors: Liang Xu , Yubin Zheng , Rongrong Chen , Jie Du , Shujuan Yu
Published: January 2007

Phenoxy resin reacted with a toluene diisocynate-terminated polyurethane prepolymer forming a reinforced thermosetting plastic by static casting. We investigated the effects of the process conditions including crosslinking time, crosslinking temperature, and isocyanate index (I)on the mechanical property and heat resistance of the crosslinked product. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), and a material testing machine were used to characterize and test the reinforced phenoxy resin. The results show that the maximum tensile strength is 71.8, 63, 41.9 MPa and breaking extension is 6.3%, 325%, 418.8% in I of 0.04, 0.16, 0.28, respectively, under the conditions of optimal crosslinking temperature of 100%C and appropriate crosslinking time of 0.5-2 h. The heat resistance of crosslinked phenoxy resin deteriorates with the increase of I. The all-round properties are optimum in I of 0.16 and isocyanate index decides the reinforced product property.
Influence of Volume Fraction, Voltage and Temperature on the Volume Resistivity and Break Down Voltage of Carbon Black Filled SBR Composites
Authors: Renukappa N. M. , Samuel R. D. Sudhaker , Siddaramaiah
Published: January 2007

A series of carbon black (CB) filled styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) composites have been prepared with different dosage of CB content, viz. 10, 20, 30, 50, 70, and 90 phr. The prepared composites have been characterized for electrical properties such as volume resistivity and breakdown voltage. The effect of volume fraction of conducting filler, temperature, and voltage on these properties were established. The normalized capacitance and breakdown voltage have been calculated theoretically using mathematical models and the results are correlated with the experimental results.
The Effect of Curing Conditions on the Properties of Silica Modified Glass Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composite
Authors: Cao Y. , Cameron J.
Published: January 2007

The effects of curing conditions on the mechanical properties of glass fiber reinforced epoxy composites under different fiber prestressing levels were quantitatively studied. The composite samples were prepared with silica particle modified continuous E-glass fibers, epoxy resin matrix, fiber prestressing and step curing processing. Room temperature cured and isothermal high temperature cured composite samples, with the same content and structure, were made to study the difference of three curing conditions on a quantitative level. Based on the test results of flexural, shear, and impact properties of the composite samples, it was found that the step curing procedure generates composite samples with up to 47% and 14% increased properties than room temperature cured and isothermal high temperature cured samples, respectively, when manufactured under the same fiber prestressing level. The possibility of generating an optimum residual stress within the samples during processing is proposed and discussed to explain the contribution of the step curing process to the composite properties.