bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selection of Conserved Epitopes from Hepatitis C Virus for Pan-Populational Stimulation of T-Cell Responses
Authors: Molero-Abraham Magdalena , Lafuente Esther M. , Flower Darren R. , Reche Pedro A.
Published: November 2013

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is able to persist as a chronic infection, which can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. There is evidence that clearance of HCV is linked to strong responses by CD8 cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), suggesting that eliciting CTL responses against HCV through an epitope-based vaccine could prove an effective means of immunization. However, HCV genomic plasticity as well as the polymorphisms of HLA I molecules restricting CD8 T-cell responses challenges the selection of epitopes for a widely protective vaccine. Here, we devised an approach to overcome these limitations. From available databases, we first collected a set of 245 HCV-specific CD8 T-cell epitopes, all known to be targeted in the course of a natural infection in humans. After a sequence variability analysis, we next identified 17 highly invariant epitopes. Subsequently, we predicted the epitope HLA I binding profiles that determine their potential presentation and recognition. Finally, using the relevant HLA I-genetic frequencies, we identified various epitope subsets encompassing 6 conserved HCV-specific CTL epitopes each predicted to elicit an effective T-cell response in any individual regardless of their HLA I background. We implemented this epitope selection approach for free public use at the EPISOPT web server.
Enterovesical Fistulae: Aetiology, Imaging, and Management
Authors: Golabek Tomasz , Szymanska Anna , Szopinski Tomasz , Bukowczan Jakub , Furmanek Mariusz , Powroznik Jan , Chlosta Piotr
Published: November 2013

Background and Study Objectives. Enterovesical fistula (EVF) is a devastating complication of a variety of inflammatory and neoplastic diseases. Radiological imaging plays a vital role in the diagnosis of EVF and is indispensable to gastroenterologists and surgeons for choosing the correct therapeutic option. This paper provides an overview of the diagnosis of enterovesical fistulae. The treatment of fistulae is also briefly discussed.Material and Methods. We performed a literature review by searching the Medline database for articles published from its inception until September 2013 based on clinical relevance. Electronic searches were limited to the keywords: “enterovesical fistula,” “colovesical fistula” (CVF), “pelvic fistula”, and “urinary fistula”.Results. EVF is a rare pathology. Diverticulitis is the commonest aetiology. Over two-thirds of affected patients describe pathognomonic features of pneumaturia, fecaluria, and recurrent urinary tract infections. Computed tomography is the modality of choice for the diagnosis of enterovesical fistulae as not only does it detect a fistula, but it also provides information about the surrounding anatomical structures.Conclusions. In the vast majority of cases, this condition is diagnosed because of unremitting urinary symptoms after gastroenterologist follow-up procedures for a diverticulitis or bowel inflammatory disease. Computed tomography is the most sensitive test for enterovesical fistula.
Modulation of LPS-Induced CD4+ T-Cell Activation and Apoptosis by Antioxidants in Untreated Asymptomatic HIV Infected Participants: AnIn VitroStudy
Authors: Mburu S. , Marnewick J. L. , Abayomi A. , Ipp H.
Published: November 2013

Persistent immune activation characterises HIV infection and is associated with depletion of CD4+ T-cells and increased risk of disease progression. Early loss of gut mucosal integrity results in the translocation of microbial products such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) into the systemic circulation. This is an important source of on-going immune stimulation. The purpose of this study was to determine levels of CD4+ T-cell activation (%CD25 expression) and apoptosis (% annexin V/7-AAD) in asymptomatic, untreated HIV infection at baseline and after stimulation with LPS and incubation with or without vitamin C and N-acetylcysteine. LPS induced a significant (P<0.03) increase in %CD25 expression, annexin V, and 7-AAD in HIV positive individuals. NAC in combination with vitamin C, significantly (P=0.0018) reduced activation and early apoptosis of CD4+ T-cells to a greater degree than with either antioxidant alone. Certain combinations of antioxidants could be important in reducing the harmful effects of chronic immune activation and thereby limit CD4+ T-cell depletion. Importantly, we showed that CD4+ T-cells of the HIV positive group responded better to a combination of the antioxidants at this stage than those of the controls. Therefore, appropriate intervention at this asymptomatic stage could rescue the cells before repetitive activation results in the death of CD4+ T-cells.
Dominant Fecal Microbiota in Newly Diagnosed Untreated Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients
Authors: Thorkildsen Lill Therese , Nwosu Felix Chinweije , Avershina Ekaterina , Ricanek Petr , Perminow Gøri , Brackmann Stephan , Vatn Morten H. , Rudi Knut
Published: November 2013

Our knowledge about the microbiota associated with the onset of IBD is limited. The aim of our study was to investigate the correlation between IBD and the fecal microbiota for early diagnosed untreated patients. The fecal samples used were a part of the Inflammatory Bowel South-Eastern Norway II (IBSEN II) study and were collected from CD patients (n=30), UC patients (n=33), unclassified IBD (IBDU) patients (n=3), and from a control group (n=34). The bacteria associated with the fecal samples were analyzed using a direct 16S rRNA gene-sequencing approach combined with a multivariate curve resolution (MCR) analysis. In addition, a 16S rRNA gene clone library was prepared for the construction of bacteria-specific gene-targeted single nucleotide primer extension (SNuPE) probes. The MCR analysis resulted in the recovery of five pure components of the dominant bacteria present:Escherichia/Shigella,Faecalibacterium,Bacteroides, and two components of unclassified Clostridiales.Escherichia/Shigellawas found to be significantly increased in CD patients compared to control subjects, andFaecalibacteriumwas found to be significantly reduced in CD patients compared to both UC patients and control subjects. Furthermore, a SNuPE probe specific forEscherichia/Shigellashowed a significant overrepresentation ofEscherichia/Shigellain CD patients compared to control subjects. In conclusion, samples from CD patients exhibited an increase inEscherichia/Shigellaand a decrease inFaecalibacteriumindicating that the onset of the disease is associated with an increase in proinflammatory and a decrease in anti-inflammatory bacteria.
Investigation of the Three-Dimensional Hinge Moment Characteristics Generated by the ONERA-M6 Wing with an Aileron
Authors: Zhang G. Q. , Yu S. C. M. , Chien A.
Published: November 2013

The hinge moment characteristics for ONERA-M6 wing with aileron configuration have been investigated numerically based on the different gaps and deflecting angles. The results show that the effects on the wing made by the deflecting aileron are notable. Comparing with the nonaileron case, the chordwise pressure coefficient distribution for the wing with aileron has shown the totally different trends. The small gap can force the air flow through and form the extremely strong spraying flow. It can directly destroy the previously formed leading edge vortex (LEV). Due to the presence of the positive deflecting angle, the trailing edge vortex (TEV) will begin to generate at the trailing edge of the aileron. The induced secondary LEV will be mixed with the developing TEVs and form the stronger TEVs at the downstream position. Comparing with the subsonic flow, the curve for the supersonic flow has shown a good linear. The corresponding hinge moments are also extremely sensitive to the changing angle of attack, and the slope of curves is also bigger than that of the subsonic flow. The bigger gap and deflecting angle can result in the curve of hinge moment bending upward at high angle of attack. The corresponding pressure cloud and streamlines have also been obtained computationally and analyzed in detail.
BMCloud: Minimizing Repair Bandwidth and Maintenance Cost in Cloud Storage
Authors: Yin Chao , Xie Changsheng , Wan Jiguang , Hung Chih-Cheng , Liu Jinjiang , Lan Yihua
Published: November 2013

To protect data in cloud storage, fault tolerance and efficient recovery become very important. Recent studies have developed numerous solutions based on erasure code techniques to solve this problem using functional repairs. However, there are two limitations to address. The first one is consistency since the Encoding Matrix (EM) is different among clouds. The other one is repairing bandwidth, which is a concern for most of us. We addressed these two problems from both theoretical and practical perspectives. We developed BMCloud, a new low repair bandwidth, low maintenance cost cloud storage system, which aims to reduce repair bandwidth and maintenance cost. The system employs both functional repair and exact repair while it inherits advantages from the both. We propose the JUDGE_STYLE algorithm, which can judge whether the system should adopt exact repair or functional repair. We implemented a networked storage system prototype and demonstrated our findings. Compared with existing solutions, BMCloud can be used in engineering to save repair bandwidth and degrade maintenance significantly.
Tenon’s Cyst Presenting as a Long-Term Complication following Incision Cataract Surgery
Authors: Krishnacharya Prabhakar Srinivasapuram
Published: November 2013

Context.Tenon’s cyst or conjunctival cyst formation is not uncommon late complication of traditional extracapsular cataract surgery; however, few reports are available in the literature.Aims.Large cystic swellings were clinically diagnosed as filtering blebs at the cataract incision site in two patients. The purpose of the case presentation is to discuss the factors leading to cyst formation, visual loss and cyst recurrence after its excision.Patients and Methods. Case 1.Sixty-one-year-old male patient presented with a bleb at superior limbal region in the right eye, two years after cataract surgery.Case 2.A giant bleb was found at the same region in the right eye of a 65-year-old male patient, eight years after cataract surgery.Results.Complete excision of the cyst was performed with conjunctival autograft in the first patient and followed up for two years. No recurrence of the cyst was observed. Internal wound gaping was seen on gonioscopy in the second patient.Conclusions.Unstable scleral tunnel could explain bleb formation in both the patients. Complete bleb excision with conjunctival auto-graft resulted in closure of the defect with no bleb recurrence during two-year follow-up. Over-filtration causing hypotonic maculopathy was the reason for decreased vision in the second case.
Modeling the Impacts of Urbanization on Regional Climate Change: A Case Study in the Beijing-Tianjin-Tangshan Metropolitan Area
Authors: Zhan Jinyan , Huang Juan , Zhao Tao , Geng Xiaoli , Xiong Yihui
Published: November 2013

China has experienced rapid urbanization since 1978, and the dramatic change in land cover is expected to have significant impacts on the climate change. Some models have been used to simulate the relationship between land use and land cover change and climate change; however, there is still no sufficient evidence for the impacts of urbanization on the regional climate. This study aims to identify the impact of urban land use change on regional temperature and precipitation in summer in the Beijing-Tianjin-Tangshan Metropolitan area during 2030–2040 based on the analysis of the simulation results of WRF model. Firstly, we analyzed the land use change and climate change during 1995–2005 in the study area. The impacts of future urbanization on regional climate change were then simulated. The results indicate that urbanization in this area has affected the regional climate and has the potential to increase temperature and precipitation in the summer of 2030–2040. These research results can offer decision-making support information related to future planning strategies in urban environments in consideration of regional climate change.
Comparison of User-Directed and Automatic Mapping of the Planned Isocenter to Treatment Space for Prostate IGRT
Authors: Xu Zijie , Chen Ronald , Wang Andrew , Kress Andrea , Foskey Mark , Qin An , Cullip Timothy , Tracton Gregg , Chang Sha , Tepper Joel , Yan Di , Chaney Edward
Published: November 2013

Image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT), adaptive radiotherapy (ART), and online reoptimization rely on accurate mapping of the radiation beam isocenter(s) from planning to treatment space. This mapping involves rigid and/or nonrigid registration of planning (pCT) and intratreatment (tCT) CT images. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively compare a fully automatic approach, including a non-rigid step, against a user-directed rigid method implemented in a clinical IGRT protocol for prostate cancer. Isocenters resulting from automatic and clinical mappings were compared to reference isocenters carefully determined in each tCT. Comparison was based on displacements from the reference isocenters and prostate dose-volume histograms (DVHs). Ten patients with a total of 243 tCTs were investigated. Fully automatic registration was found to be as accurate as the clinical protocol but more precise for all patients. The average of the unsignedx, y,andzoffsets and the standard deviations (σ) of the signed offsets computed over all images were (avg. ±  σ (mm)): 1.1 ± 1.4, 1.8 ± 2.3, 2.5 ± 3.5 for the clinical protocol and 0.6 ± 0.8, 1.1 ± 1.5 and 1.1 ± 1.4 for the automatic method. No failures or outliers from automatic mapping were observed, while 8 outliers occurred for the clinical protocol.
The Study of Reinforcement Learning for Traffic Self-Adaptive Control under Multiagent Markov Game Environment
Authors: Xu Lun-Hui , Xia Xin-Hai , Luo Qiang
Published: November 2013

Urban traffic self-adaptive control problem is dynamic and uncertain, so the states of traffic environment are hard to be observed. Efficient agent which controls a single intersection can be discovered automatically via multiagent reinforcement learning. However, in the majority of the previous works on this approach, each agent needed perfect observed information when interacting with the environment and learned individually with less efficient coordination. This study casts traffic self-adaptive control as a multiagent Markov game problem. The design employs traffic signal control agent (TSCA) for each signalized intersection that coordinates with neighboring TSCAs. A mathematical model for TSCAs’ interaction is built based on nonzero-sum markov game which has been applied to let TSCAs learn how to cooperate. A multiagent Markov game reinforcement learning approach is constructed on the basis of single-agentQ-learning. This method lets each TSCA learn to update itsQ-values under the joint actions and imperfect information. The convergence of the proposed algorithm is analyzed theoretically. The simulation results show that the proposed method is convergent and effective in realistic traffic self-adaptive control setting.
The Perturbed Dual Risk Model with Constant Interest and a Threshold Dividend Strategy
Authors: Zeng Fanzi , Xu Jisheng
Published: November 2013

We consider the perturbed dual risk model with constant interest and a threshold dividend strategy. Firstly, we investigate the moment-generation function of the present value of total dividends until ruin. Integrodifferential equations with certain boundary conditions are derived for the present value of total dividends. Furthermore, using techniques of sinc numerical methods, we obtain the approximation results to the expected present value of total dividends. Finally, numerical examples are presented to show the impact of interest on the expected present value of total dividends and the absolute ruin probability.
An Innovative Direct-Interaction-Enabled Augmented-Reality 3D System
Authors: Chang Sheng-Hsiung , Liang Tsair-Chun
Published: November 2013

Previous augmented-reality (AR) applications have required users to observe the integration of real and virtual images on a display. This study proposes a novel concept regarding AR applications. By integrating AR techniques with marker identification, virtual-image output, imaging, and image-interaction processes, this study rendered virtual images that can interact with predefined markers in a real three-dimensional (3D) environment.
Preparation of Graphene Oxide Stabilized Nickel Nanoparticles with Thermal Effusivity Properties by Laser Ablation Method
Authors: Sadrolhosseini Amir Reza , Noor A. S. M. , Shameli Kamyar , Kharazmi Alireza , Huang N. M. , Mahdi M. A.
Published: November 2013

Nickel nanoparticles were dispersed uniformly in a graphene oxide solution, using a laser ablation technique with different ablation times that ranged from 5 to 20 minutes. The results indicate that the nickel nanoparticle sizes inside the graphene oxide decreased, and the volume fraction for the nickel nanoparticles in the graphene oxide increased with an increasing ablation time. Further, using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, the nickel nanoparticles in the graphene oxide demonstrate greater stability from possible agglomeration when the nanoparticle was capped with oxygen from the carboxyl group of the graphene oxide. The thermal effusivity of the graphene oxide and nickel nanoparticle graphene oxide composite was measured using a photoacoustic technique. The concentration of graphene oxide shifted from 0.05 mg/L to 2 mg/L, and the thermal effusivity increased from 0.153 W·s1/2·cm−2·K−1 to 0.326 W·s1/2·cm−2·K−1. In addition, the thermal effusivity of the nickel nanoparticles graphene oxide composite increased with an increase in the volume fraction of nickel nanoparticles from 0.1612 W·s1/2·cm−2·K−1 to 0.228 W·s1/2·cm−2·K−1.
Is Wilms Tumor a Candidate Neoplasia for Treatment with WNT/β-Catenin Pathway Modulators?—A Report from the Renal Tumors Biology-Driven Drug Development Workshop
Authors: Perotti Daniela , Hohenstein Peter , Bongarzone Italia , Maschietto Mariana , Weeks Mark , Radice Paolo , Pritchard-Jones Kathy
Published: November 2013

The European Network for Cancer Research in Children and Adolescents consortium organized a workshop in Rome, in June 2012, on “Biology-Driven Drug Development Renal Tumors Workshop” to discuss the current knowledge in pediatric renal cancers and to recommend directions for further research. Wilms tumor is the most common renal tumor of childhood and represents a success of pediatric oncology, with cure rates of more than 85% of cases. However, a substantial minority (∼25%) responds poorly to current therapies and requires “high-risk” treatment or relapse. Moreover, the successfully treated majority are vulnerable to the late effects of treatment, with nearly one quarter reporting severe chronic health conditions by 25 years of follow-up. Main purposes of this meeting were to advance our understanding on the molecular drivers in Wilms tumor, their heterogeneity and interdependencies; to provide updates on the clinical–pathologic associations with biomarkers; to identify eligible populations for targeted drugs; and to model opportunities to use preclinical model systems and prioritize targeted agents for early phase clinical trials. At least three different pathways are involved in Wilms tumor; this review represents the outcome of the workshop discussion on the WNT/β-catenin pathway in Wilms tumorigenesis. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(12); 2619–27. ©2013 AACR.
Complete Response of Primary Bladder Adenocarcinoma with the FOLFOX4 Regimen
Authors: Tatli A.M. , Uysal M. , Goksu S.S. , Gunduz S. , Arslan D. , Ozdogan M.
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Primary adenocarcinoma of the bladder is a very rare disease that is difficult to treat. In this paper, we report the second case in the literature with primary mucinous adenocarcinoma of the bladder which showed complete response to FOLFOX4 (fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin) chemotherapy regimen. Case Report: A 41-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with a diagnosis of primary adenocarcinoma of the bladder. Due to the similarity in histology with colon carcinoma, a FOLFOX4 regimen was started. Complete response was achieved at the end of this treatment. Today the patient is free of local or systemic disease. Conclusion: FOLFOX4 regimen may be a treatment option for primary adenocarcinoma of the bladder.
Application of the Defect Area in Transcatheter Closure of Atrial Septal Defect
Authors: Song Jinyoung , Kang I-Seok , Chang Sung-A , Huh June , Park Seung Woo
Published: November 2013

Objectives: It was our aim to evaluate whether the defect area plays a crucial role in successful device closure of atrial septal defects (ASDs). Methods: The long and short diameters of the defect were measured on en-face images. The defect area was then measured by planimetry. The device size compared to the defect length and defect area was analyzed in each group. Results: There were 22 patients in the circular group and 45 patients in the noncircular group. The defect area did not differ between the groups (201.6 ± 107.1 vs. 245.6 ± 127.6 mm2). Although the length between the device size and the long diameter differed between the groups (3.4 ± 2.0 vs. 0.8 ± 3.7 mm; p = 0.003), there was no difference in the ratio of the device area compared to the defect area, which was constant even in the noncircular defect (1.73 ± 0.41 vs. 1.72 ± 0.53 mm2; p = 0.947). The device size was positively correlated with the defect area (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The defect area measured by planimetry on en-face images might be useful in selecting the device size for transcatheter closure of ASDs.
Down-Regulation of the Na+-Coupled Phosphate Transporter NaPi-IIa by AMP-Activated Protein Kinase
Authors: Dërmaku-Sopjani Miribane , Almilaji Ahmad , Pakladok Tatsiana , Munoz Carlos , Hosseinzadeh Zohreh , Blecua María , Sopjani Mentor , Lang Florian
Published: November 2013

Background/Aims: The Na+-coupled phosphate transporter NaPi-IIa is the main carrier accomplishing renal tubular phosphate reabsorption. It is driven by the electrochemical Na+ gradient across the apical cell membrane, which is maintained by Na+ extrusion across the basolateral cell membrane through the Na+/K+ ATPase. The operation of NaPi-IIa thus requires energy in order to avoid cellular Na+ accumulation and K+ loss with eventual decrease of cell membrane potential, Cl- entry and cell swelling. Upon energy depletion, early inhibition of Na+-coupled transport processes may delay cell swelling and thus foster cell survival. Energy depletion is sensed by the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a serine/threonine kinase stimulating several cellular mechanisms increasing energy production and limiting energy utilization. The present study explored whether AMPK influences the activity of NAPi-IIa. Methods: cRNA encoding NAPi-IIa was injected into Xenopus oocytes with or without additional expression of wild-type AMPK (AMPKα1-HA+AMPKβ1-Flag+AMPKγ1-HA), of inactive AMPKαK45R (AMPKα1K45R+AMPKβ1-Flag+AMPKγ1-HA) or of constitutively active AMPKγR70Q (AMPKα1-HA+AMPKβ1-Flag+AMPKγ1R70Q). NaPi-IIa activity was estimated from phosphate-induced current in dual electrode voltage clamp experiments. Results: In NaPi-IIa-expressing, but not in water-injected Xenopus oocytes, the addition of phosphate (1 mM) to the extracellular bath solution generated a current (Ip), which was significantly decreased by coexpression of wild-type AMPK and of AMPKγR70Q but not of AMPKαK45R. The phosphate-induced current in NaPi-IIa- and AMPK-expressing Xenopus ooocytes was significantly increased by AMPK inhibitor Compound C (20 µM). Kinetic analysis revealed that AMPK significantly decreased the maximal transport rate. Conclusion: The AMP-activated protein kinase AMPK is a powerful regulator of NaPi-IIa and thus of renal tubular phosphate transport.
Traumatic Injury to the Immature Frontal Lobe: A New Murine Model of Long-Term Motor Impairment in the Absence of Psychosocial or Cognitive Deficits
Authors: Chen Chien-Yi , Noble-Haeusslein Linda J. , Ferriero Donna , Semple Bridgette D.
Published: November 2013

Traumatic brain injury in children commonly involves the frontal lobes and is associated with distinct structural and behavioral changes. Despite the clinical significance of injuries localized to this region during brain development, the mechanisms underlying secondary damage and long-term recovery are poorly understood. Here, we have characterized the first model of unilateral focal traumatic injury to the developing frontal lobe. Male C57Bl/6J mice at postnatal day (p)21, an age approximating a toddler-aged child, received a controlled cortical impact or sham surgery to the left frontal lobe and were euthanized 1 or 7 days later. A necrotic cavity and local inflammatory response were largely confined to the unilateral frontal lobe, dorsal corpus callosum and striatum anterior to the bregma. While cell death and accumulated β-amyloid precursor protein were characteristic features of the pericontusional motor cortex, corpus callosum, cingulum and dorsal striatum, underlying structures including the hippocampus showed no overt pathology. To determine the long-term functional consequences of injury at p21, two additional cohorts were subjected to a battery of behavioral tests in adolescence (p35-45) or adulthood (p70-80). In both cohorts, brain-injured mice showed normal levels of anxiety, sociability, spatial learning and memory. The signature phenotypic features were deficits in motor function and motor learning, coincident with a reduction in ipsilateral cortical brain volumes. Together, these findings demonstrate classic morphological features of a focal traumatic injury, including early cell death and axonal injury, and long-term volumetric loss of cortical volumes. The presence of deficits in sensorimotor function and coordination in the absence of abnormal findings related to anxiety, sociability and memory likely reflects several variables, including the unique location of the injury and the emergence of favorable compensatory mechanisms during subsequent brain development.
The Protective Effect of Hesperidin on Methotrexate-Induced Intestinal Epithelial Damage in Rats: An Experimental Study
Authors: Acipayam Can , Bayram Ibrahim , Daglioglu Kenan , Doran Figen , Yilmaz Sema , Sezgin Gülay , Totan Ateş Berna , Ozkan Ayşe , Tanyeli Atila
Published: November 2013

Objective: The purpose of this experimental study was to evaluate the efficacy of hesperidin (HES) in protecting against methotrexate (MTX)-induced intestinal damage using histopathological and immunohistochemical techniques. Materials and Methods: Seventy-eight male Wistar albino rats were divided into 4 groups that received (a) saline only (control group), n = 19; (b) HES only, n = 19; (c) MTX only, n = 19, and (d) MTX plus HES, n = 21. On the first day of the study, a single dose of MTX (20 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally to group 3 and 4 rats. The HES (200 mg/kg) was administered by gavage for 5 days. For the MTX plus HES group, HES (200 mg/kg) was administered by gavage for 5 days after MTX treatment. Rats were sacrificed on the 2nd, 4th and 6th day of the study. Tissue samples from the jejunum were taken for histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis. Results: On the 4th day, crypt injury in the MTX plus HES group (1.00 ± 0.00) was less than that in the MTX group (2.00 ± 0.89; p < 0.05). The small intestinal damage score was lower in the MTX plus HES group (6.33 ± 0.82) as compared to the MTX group (8.00 ± 2.37). Inducible nitric oxide synthase and interleukin-8 levels were lower in the MTX plus HES group (65 and 25%, respectively) as compared to the corresponding values of the MTX group (80 and 52.5%, respectively). On the 6th day, the Ki-67 proliferation index in the MTX group (45%) was lower than that in the MTX plus HES group (76.67%) and the control group (p < 0.05). The small intestinal damage score was high in the HES group on the 4th day due to increased cellular infiltration. On the 6th day, the Ki-67 proliferation index rose in parallel with the decrease in cellular infiltration and therefore histopathological scoring. The proliferation-enhancing effect of HES also appeared in healthy rats. Conclusion: HES seemed to have a protective effect against MTX-induced intestinal injury.
Effects of Acute Transmural Pressure Elevation on Endothelium-Dependent Vasodilation in Isolated Rat Mesenteric Veins
Authors: Enouri Saad , Monteith Gabrielle , Johnson Ron
Published: November 2013

Background/Aims: The vascular regulatory function of the endothelium can be impaired by increases in transmural pressure (TMP). We tested the hypothesis that increasing TMP impairs the endothelial dilator function of rat mesenteric small veins (MSVs). Methods: In PGF2α-preconstricted MSVs, bradykinin (BK), sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and S-Nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) concentration-response curves were generated at intermediate (6 mm Hg) and high (12 mm Hg) pressures. BK-induced vasodilation was examined in the absence and presence of nitric oxide synthase inhibitor [Nω-nitro-L-arginine (L-NNA), 100 µM], cyclooxygenase inhibitor (indomethacin, 1 µM), and large (BKCa, paxilline, 500 nM) and small (SKCa, apamin, 300 nM) conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel blockers. Results: BK, SNP and SNAP responses were not altered by TMP increases. BK-induced vasodilation was significantly reduced by L-NNA, indomethacin, apamin and paxilline at 6 mm Hg and L-NNA at 12 mm Hg, and was further reduced by coapplication of apamin and/or paxilline with L-NNA compared with responses obtained with either blocker. Endothelium removal completely abolished BK-induced vasodilation. Conclusion: Venous endothelial dilator function is not affected by TMP elevation. BK-induced vasodilation is completely dependent on the presence of functional endothelial cells and mediated in part by nitric oxide, BKCa and SKCa channels, while the participation of prostacyclin may be important at intermediate pressures.
The Evolution of Hurricane Humberto (2001)
Authors: Dolling Klaus , Barnes Gary M.
Published: November 2013

In 2001, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Aeronautical and Space Administration marshaled their resources to sample Hurricane Humberto for 3 successive days during the fourth Convection and Moisture Experiment (CAMEX-4). Humberto developed from a tropical storm into a category-2 hurricane despite the deep-layer vertical shear of the environmental horizontal wind (VWS) increasing markedly on the second and third days of sampling. As exhibited in earlier studies, the eyewall convection developed an azimuthal wavenumber-1 (n = 1) asymmetry as the VWS increased. Horizontal divergence and vertical stability within 100 km of the eye exhibited persistent relationships to the VWS vector.

The warm core evolved in an unexpected way. The warm anomaly was initially located in the lower troposphere and built upward as the storm intensified. The maximum temperature anomaly remained in the lower troposphere on all 3 days while the development of the upper-tropospheric warm anomaly appeared to be inhibited by the increasing VWS and the entrainment of dry environmental air into the core at midlevels.

The warm core of this higher-latitude (33°N) storm displayed large differences when compared to most numerical simulations, wind-induced surface heat exchange theory, and observations of tropical cyclones in the deep tropics acquired nearly 50 years ago. The results were similar to some recent numerical simulations.
Effective Diffusivity in Baroclinic Flow
Authors: Leibensperger Eric M. , Plumb R. Alan
Published: November 2013

Large-scale chaotic stirring stretches tracer contours into filaments containing fine spatial scales until small-scale diffusive processes dissipate tracer variance. Quantification of tracer transport in such circumstances is possible through the use of Nakamura’s “effective diffusivity” diagnostics, which make clear the controlling role of stirring, rather than small-scale dissipation, in large-scale transport. Existing theory of effective diffusivity is based on a layerwise approach, in which tracer variance is presumed to cascade via horizontal (or isentropic) stirring to small-scale horizontal (or isentropic) diffusion. In most geophysical flows of interest, however, baroclinic shear will tilt stirred filamentary structures into almost-horizontal sheets, in which case the thinnest dimension is vertical; accordingly, it will be vertical (or diabatic) diffusion that provides the ultimate dissipation of variance. Here new theoretical developments define effective diffusivity in such flows. In the frequently relevant case of isentropic stirring, it is shown that the theory is, in most respects, unchanged from the case of isentropic diffusion: effective isentropic diffusivity is controlled by the isentropic stirring and, it is argued, largely independent of the nature of the ultimate dissipation. Diabatic diffusion is not amplified by the stirring, although it can be modestly enhanced through eddy modulation of static stability. These characteristics are illustrated in numerical simulations of a stratospheric flow; in regions of strong stirring, the theoretical predictions are well supported, but agreement is less good where stirring is weaker.
Impact of East Asian Winter and Australian Summer Monsoons on the Enhanced Surface Westerlies over the Western Tropical Pacific Ocean Preceding the El Niño Onset
Authors: Zheng Yangxing , Zhang Renhe , Bourassa Mark A.
Published: November 2013

Composite analysis from NCEP–NCAR reanalysis datasets over the period 1948–2007 indicates that stronger East Asian winter monsoons (EAWM) and stronger Australian summer monsoons (ASM) generally coexist in boreal winters preceding the onset of El Niño, although the EAWM tend to be weak after 1990, probably because of the decadal shift of EAWM and the change in El Niño events from cold-tongue type to warm-pool type. The anomalous EAWM and ASM enhance surface westerlies over the western tropical Pacific Ocean (WTP). It is proposed that the enhanced surface westerlies over the WTP prior to El Niño onset are generally associated with the concurrent anomalous EAWM and ASM. A simple analytical atmospheric model is constructed to test the hypothesis that the emergence of enhanced surface westerlies over the WTP can be linked to concurrent EAWM and ASM anomalies. Model results indicate that, when anomalous northerlies from the EAWM converge with anomalous southerlies from the ASM, westerly anomalies over the WTP are enhanced. This result provides a possible explanation of the co-impact of the EAWM and the ASM on the onset of El Niño through enhancing the surface westerly over the WTP.
Some Nonlinear, Equatorially Trapped, Nonhydrostatic Internal Geophysical Waves
Authors: Constantin Adrian
Published: November 2013

The author presents an explicit exact solution to the governing equations for geophysical equatorial waves in the β-plane setting. The solution describes equatorially trapped waves propagating eastward above the thermocline and beneath the near-surface layer where wind effects are confined. At great depths the water is still, while the transition toward the large-amplitude oscillation of the thermocline is accommodated by an eastward-flowing current. Above the thermocline a flow reversal occurs, with the underlying current flowing westward close to the layer where wind effects are confined.
Computation of Geostrophic Streamfunction, Its Derivatives, and Error Estimates from an Array of CPIES in Drake Passage
Authors: Firing Y. L. , Chereskin T. K. , Watts D. R. , Tracey K. L. , Provost C.
Published: November 2013

Current and pressure-recording inverted echo sounders (CPIES) were deployed in an eddy-resolving local dynamics array (LDA) in the eddy-rich polar frontal zone (PFZ) in Drake Passage as part of the cDrake experiment. Methods are described for calculating barotropic and baroclinic geostrophic streamfunction and its first, second, and third derivatives by objective mapping of current, pressure, or geopotential height anomaly data from a two-dimensional array of CPIES like the cDrake LDA.

Modifications to previous methods result in improved dimensional error estimates on velocity and higher streamfunction derivatives. Simulations are used to test the reproduction of higher derivatives of streamfunction and to verify mapping error estimates. Three-day low-pass-filtered velocity in and around the cDrake LDA can be mapped with errors of 0.04 m s−1 at 4000 dbar, increasing to 0.13 m s−1 at the sea surface; these errors are small compared to typical speeds observed at these levels, 0.2 and 0.65 m s−1, respectively. Errors on vorticity are 9 × 10−6 s−1 near the surface, decreasing with depth to 3 × 10−6 s−1 at 4000 dbar, whereas vorticities in the PFZ eddy field are 4 × 10−5 s−1 (surface) to 1.3 × 10−5 s−1 (4000 dbar). Vorticity gradient errors range from 4 × 10−10 to 2 × 10−10 m −1 s−1, just under half the size of typical PFZ vorticity gradients. Comparisons between cDrake mapped temperature and velocity fields and independent observations (moored current and temperature, lowered acoustic Doppler current profiler velocity, and satellite-derived surface currents) help validate the cDrake method and results.
The Hybrid Local Ensemble Transform Kalman Filter
Authors: Penny Stephen G.
Published: November 2013

Hybrid data assimilation methods combine elements of ensemble Kalman filters (EnKF) and variational methods. While most approaches have focused on augmenting an operational variational system with dynamic error covariance information from an ensemble, this study takes the opposite perspective of augmenting an operational EnKF with information from a simple 3D variational data assimilation (3D-Var) method. A class of hybrid methods is introduced that combines the gain matrices of the ensemble and variational methods, rather than linearly combining the respective background error covariances. A hybrid local ensemble transform Kalman filter (Hybrid-LETKF) is presented in two forms: 1) a traditionally motivated Hybrid/Covariance-LETKF that combines the background error covariance matrices of LETKF and 3D-Var, and 2) a simple-to-implement algorithm called the Hybrid/Mean-LETKF that falls into the new class of hybrid gain methods. Both forms improve analysis errors when using small ensemble sizes and low observation coverage versus either LETKF or 3D-Var used alone. The results imply that for small ensemble sizes, allowing a solution to be found outside of the space spanned by ensemble members provides robustness in both hybrid methods compared to LETKF alone. Finally, the simplicity of the Hybrid/Mean-LETKF design implies that this algorithm can be applied operationally while requiring only minor modifications to an existing operational 3D-Var system.
The Micro Foundations of Policy Diffusion Toward Complex Global Governance
Authors: Paterson Matthew , Hoffmann Matthew , Betsill Michele , Bernstein Steven
Published: November 2013

Greenhouse gas emissions trading (ET) systems have become the centerpiece of climate change policy at multiple scales, unexpectedly largely outside of the UN climate governance process. The diffusion of ET is best described as a case of polycentric diffusion, where ET systems diffused to multiple loci of governance, but where they all serve similar goals under a broad policy framework guided loosely by the UN-based climate regime. Using network analysis combined with qualitative data, we explain how this polycentric pattern of policy development emerged, who carried and spread it and how, and how the idea has spread into a polycentric governance system. We contribute to the policy diffusion literature in a novel way to explain diffusion toward polycentric governance, show the limits of the existing literature to explain the diffusion of ET, and show the utility of network analysis in understanding the process and mechanism of polycentric diffusion.
Gang Participation
Authors: Yiu Ho Lam (Eva) , Gottfredson Gary D.
Published: November 2013

Schools that require the most help are often those that have difficulty staffing qualified teachers. Data suggest that many teachers who leave their schools or the profession cite student misbehavior and an unsafe work environment as reasons. Although public attention is not at present focused on problems of gang delinquency in schools—focusing instead on educational funding, teacher quality, and achievement levels—there is every reason to anticipate that gangs, school disorder, and teaching quality are closely linked. This research involves a large probability sample of secondary schools surveyed in 1998 merged with U.S. census data on community characteristics. Multilevel models imply that community demographic influences on individual gang involvement (GI) are largely mediated by school and personal variables. School safety and students’ personal sense of safety emerged as important variables that predicted GI.
An early effort in cultural diplomacy: The Canadian Co-operation Project and Canadian tourism
Authors: MacKenzie David
Published: November 2013

The Canadian Co-operation Project (CCP) was one of the more unusual episodes in the economic and cultural relationship of Canada and the United States. Conceived between the federal government and the Hollywood film industry, the 1948 agreement called on Hollywood to produce more films in Canada and to make efforts to promote American tourism in Canada. The paper argues that the CCP was less the surrender to Hollywood than is generally understood and more an early example of cultural diplomacy in which the Canadian government used cultural relations with the United States for its own ends, primarily the promotion of tourism in Canada.
Progressive failure analysis on two parallel pinned joint glass/epoxy composite plates under the effect of seawater
Authors: Örçen Gurbet , Gür Mustafa , Turan Kadir
Published: November 2013

This study investigates failure behaviors of woven glass fiber-reinforced epoxy resin composite plates with two parallel pins jointed and under the effect of seawater. The effects of joint geometry and immersion time in seawater were analyzed by experimental and numerical methods. In order to observe the effects of seawater, the samples were kept in seawater for periods of zero, three, and six months. For the observation of the joint geometry effect on the failure behaviour, the edge distance-to-upper hole diameter (E/D), the two hole-to-hole centre diameter (K/D), the distance from the upper or the lower edge of the specimen to the center of the hole-to-hole diameter (M/D), and the width of the specimen-to-hole diameter (W/D) ratios were selected as geometrical parameters. The numerical study where the progressive failure analysis was employed was carried out through a sub-program running in ANSYS 11.0 finite elements program. In order to predict the failure loads and failure types in the numerical analysis, the Tsai-Wu failure criterion was used along with material degradation rules. At the end of the study, it was determined that increase of the immersion time in seawater caused weaker mechanical properties and decrease in failure loads of samples. It was also found that the results of progressive failure analysis were consistent with the experimental results.
“When You Got Friends in Low Places, You Stay Low”
Authors: Woodall Denise , Boeri Miriam
Published: November 2013

To examine access to needed resources among low-income methamphetamine-using females, we conducted interviews with 30 women living in poor suburban communities of a large southeastern metropolis. As an invisible population in the suburbs, underserved by social services, the women remain geographically and socially anchored to their poor suburban enclaves as transit, treatment, and education remain out of reach. The longitudinal study included three interviews over a two-year period. Resources needed by the women were identified in the first interview and a list of available services was provided to them. In subsequent interviews, we asked how they accessed the services or barriers encountered and discussed these further in focus groups. Using a social capital framework in our qualitative analysis, we identified three processes for accessing needed resources: formal, informal, and mediated. Implications for policymakers and social service providers are suggested, and models for future development proposed.
Successful transition to elementary school and the implementation of facilitative practices specified in the Reggio-Emilia philosophy
Authors: Schneider Barry H. , Manetti Mara , Frattini Laura , Rania Nadia , Santo Jonathan Bruce , Coplan Robert J. , Cwinn Eli
Published: November 2013

Systematic, mandated facilitation of school transitions is an important but understudied aspect of the Reggio-Emilia approach to early childhood education admired internationally as best practice. We studied the links between Northern Italian transition practices and academic achievement, school liking, cooperativeness, and problem behaviors. We followed 288 students across a transition from preschool to elementary school. Schools varied in their implementation of transition practices. High implementation of Reggio-type transition practices was related to significantly more school liking and significantly fewer problem behaviors after the transition. At follow-up at the end of the post-transition year, high-implementation schools were still characterized by lower levels of problem behavior. These data indicate that the facilitation of school transitions in the Reggio-Emilia tradition is associated with successful post-transition adjustment.
Practical Guide to Conducting an Item Response Theory Analysis
Authors: Toland Michael D.
Published: November 2013

Item response theory (IRT) is a psychometric technique used in the development, evaluation, improvement, and scoring of multi-item scales. This pedagogical article provides the necessary information needed to understand how to conduct, interpret, and report results from two commonly used ordered polytomous IRT models (Samejima’s graded response [GR] model and reduced GR model). Throughout this article, simulated data from a multi-item scale is used to illustrate IRT analyses. The simulated data and IRTPRO version 2.1 point-and-click commands needed to reproduce all analyses in this article are available as supplemental online materials at http://jea.sagepub.com/maint . The intent of this article is to provide an overview of essential components of an IRT analysis to enable increased access to this powerful tool for applied early adolescence researchers.