bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CAN ANTS PREDICT BANKRUPTCY? A COMPARISON OF ANT COLONY SYSTEMS TO OTHER STATE-OF-THE-ART COMPUTATIONAL METHODS
Authors: GOLETSIS YORGOS , EXARCHOS THEMIS P. , KATSIS CHRISTOS D.
Published: September 2009

In the current work, we consider the applicability of Ant Colony Systems (ACS) to the bankruptcy prediction problem. ACS are nature-based algorithms that mimic the functions of live organisms to find the best performing solution. In our work, ACS are used for the extraction of classification rules for bankruptcy prediction. An experimental study was conducted in order to evaluate the performance of the system and identify well performing parameters. Results were compared to the performance obtained by state-of-the-art methods for classification, namely the Artificial Neural Networks, the Support Vector Machines, the Partial Decision Trees and the Fuzzy Lattice Reasoning. Comparison indicates the high performance of the ACS which is further supported by their ability to extract classification rules, thus offering interpretation of the prediction results. The latter is of great importance in the field of corporate distress where no unified theory on distress prediction exists. Most studies with distress prediction have focused on increasing the accuracy of the model and have not always paid attention to the model interpretation.
Maternal low-protein diet alters pancreatic islet mitochondrial function in a sex-specific manner in the adult rat
Authors: Theys Nicolas , Bouckenooghe Thomas , Ahn Marie-Thérèse , Remacle Claude , Reusens Brigitte
Published: September 2009

Mitochondrial dysfunction may be a long-term consequence of a poor nutritional environment during early life. Our aim was to investigate whether a maternal low-protein (LP) diet may program mitochondrial dysfunction in islets of adult progeny before glucose intolerance ensues. To address this, pregnant Wistar rats were fed isocaloric diets containing either 20% protein (control) or 8% protein (LP diet) throughout gestation. From birth, offspring received the control diet. The mitochondrial function was analyzed in islets of 3-mo-old offspring. Related to their basal insulin release, cultured islets from both male and female LP offspring presented a lower response to glucose challenge and a blunted ATP production compared with control offspring. The expression of malate dehydrogenase as well as the subunit 6 of the ATP synthase encoded by mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) was lower in these islets, reducing the capacity of ATP production through the Krebs cycle and oxidative phosphorylation. However, mtDNA content was unchanged in LP islets compared with control. Several consequences of protein restriction during fetal life were more marked in male offspring. Only LP males showed an increased reactive oxygen species production associated with a higher expression of mitochondrial subunits of the electron transport chain NADH-ubiquinone oxireductase subunit 4L, an overexpression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ and uncoupling protein-2, and a strongly reduced beta-cell mass. In conclusion, mitochondrial function is clearly altered in islets from LP adult offspring in a sex-specific manner. That may provide a cellular explanation for the earlier development of glucose intolerance in male than in female offspring of dams fed an LP diet.
A Splice Variant of ASC Regulates IL-1βRelease and Aggregates Differently from Intact ASC
Authors: Matsushita Kazuhiko , Takeoka Michiko , Sagara Junji , Itano Naoki , Kurose Yuka , Nakamura Akihiro , Taniguchi Shun'ichiro
Published: September 2009

The apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruit domain (ASC) is involved in apoptosis and innate immunity and is a major adaptor molecule responsible for procaspase-1 activation. ASC mRNA is encoded by three exons: exons 1 and 3 encode a pyrin domain (PYD) and caspase recruit domain (CARD), respectively, and exon 2 encodes a proline and glycine-rich (PGR) domain. Here, we identified a variant ASC protein (vASC) lacking the PGR domain that was smaller than full length ASC (fASC) derived from fully transcribed mRNA and searched for differences in biochemical and biological nature. Both fASC and vASC were found to activate procaspase-1 to a similar degree, but the efficiency of IL-1βexcretion was significantly higher for vASC. There was also a marked structural difference observed in the fibrous aggregates formed by fASC and vASC. These results suggest that although the PGR domain is dispensable for procaspase-1 activation, it plays an important role in the regulation of the molecular structure and activity of ASC.
Membrane Omega-3 Fatty Acid Deficiency as a Preventable Risk Factor for Comorbid Coronary Heart Disease in Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: McNamara Robert K.
Published: September 2009

Major depression disorder (MDD) significantly increases the risk for coronary heart disease (CHD) which is a leading cause of mortality in patients with MDD. Moreover, depression is frequently observed in a subset of patients following acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and increases risk for mortality. Here evidence implicating omega-3 (n-3) fatty acid deficiency in the pathoaetiology of CHD and MDD is reviewed, and the hypothesis that n-3 fatty acid deficiency is a preventable risk factor for CHD comorbidity in MDD patients is evaluated. This hypothesis is supported by cross-national and cross-sectional epidemiological surveys finding an inverse correlation between n-3 fatty acid status and prevalence rates of both CHD and MDD, prospective studies finding that lower dietary or membrane EPA+DHA levels increase risk for both MDD and CHD, case-control studies finding that the n-3 fatty acid status of MDD patients places them at high risk for emergent CHD morbidity and mortality, meta-analyses of controlled n-3 fatty acid intervention studies finding significant advantage over placebo for reducing depression symptom severity in MDD patients, and for secondary prevention of cardiac events in CHD patients, findings that n-3 fatty acid status is inversely correlated with other documented CHD risk factors, and patients diagnosed with MDD after ACS exhibit significantly lower n-3 fatty acid status compared with nondepressed ACS patients. This body of evidence provides strong support for future studies to evaluate the effects of increasing dietary n-3 fatty acid status on CHD comorbidity and mortality in MDD patients.
Variable Increased Expression of Program Death‐1 and Program Death‐1 Ligands on Peripheral Mononuclear Cells Is Not Impaired in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Liu Ming-Fei , Weng Chia-Tse , Weng Meng-Yu
Published: September 2009

Programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) was shown to deliver an inhibitory signal after binding to its ligands, PD‐L1 (B7‐H1) or PD‐L2 (B7‐DC). Recently, up‐regulated expression of PD‐1 molecule and/or its ligands was demonstrated in human diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory colitis. The study aimed to investigate the expression and function of PD‐1 and PD‐1 ligands on circulating T cells, B cells and monocytes from patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The results showed that patients with SLE had significantly increased percentages of PD‐1‐expressing CD3+T cells and CD19+B cells, PD‐L1‐expressing CD19+B cells and PD‐L2‐expressing CD14+B monocytes. In selected SLE patients and normal subjects, functional study of PD‐1/ PD‐1 ligands pathway on the production of cytokines by stimulated PBMC was examined. Blockages of PD‐1 or PD‐1 ligands substantially increased the production of IL‐2, IFN‐γ and IL‐10, the amplitude of increase roughly ranged from one to three times. There were no significant differences of the enhancing effects on cytokine production by blockage of PD‐1/PDL pathway between SLE patients and normal subjects. The study indicates that there are no intrinsically defective expression and function of PD‐1 and PD‐1 ligands on PBMC in patients with SLE.
Molecular Typing ofNeisseria gonorrhoeaeIsolates by Opa-Typing and Ribotyping in New Delhi, India
Authors: Khaki Pejvak , Bhalla Preena , Fayaz Ahmad Mir , Moradi Bidhendi Sohiela , Esmailzadeh Majid , Sharma Pawan
Published: September 2009

Control and preventive measures for gonococcal infections are based on precise epidemiological characteristics ofN. gonorrhoeaeisolates. In the present study the potential utility of opa-typing and ribotyping for molecular epidemiological study of consecutive gonococcal strains was determined. Sixty gonococcal isolates were subjected to ribotyping with two restriction enzymes,AvaII andHincII, and opa-typing withTaqI andHpaII for epidemiological characterization of gonococcal population. Ribotyping withAvaII yielded 6 ribotype patterns while twelve RFLP patterns were observed withHincII. Opa-typing of the 60 isolates revealed a total 54 opa-types, which 48 were unique and 6 formed clusters. Fifty-two opa-types were observed withTaqI-digested PCR product while opa-typing withHpaII demonstrated 54 opa-types. The opa-types from isolates that were epidemiologically unrelated were distinct, whereas those from the sexual contacts were identical. The results showed that opa-typing is highly useful for characterizing gonococcal strains from sexual contacts and has more discriminatory than ribotyping that could differentiate between gonococci of the same ribotype. The technique even with a single restriction enzyme has a high level of discrimination (99.9%) between epidemiologically unrelated isolates. In conclusion, the molecular methods such as opa-typing and ribotyping can be used for epidemiological characterization of gonococcal strains.
IDH1 Mutations as Molecular Signature and Predictive Factor of Secondary Glioblastomas
Authors: Nobusawa Sumihito , Watanabe Takuya , Kleihues Paul , Ohgaki Hiroko
Published: September 2009

Purpose: To establish the frequency of IDH1 mutations in glioblastomas at a population level, and to assess whether they allow reliable discrimination between primary (de novo) glioblastomas and secondary glioblastomas that progressed from low-grade or anaplastic astrocytoma.

Experimental Design: We screened glioblastomas from a population-based study for IDH1 mutations and correlated them with clinical data and other genetic alterations.

Results: IDH1 mutations were detected in 36 of 407 glioblastomas (8.8%). Glioblastoma patients with IDH1 mutations were younger (mean, 47.9 years) than those with EGFR amplification (60.9 years) and were associated with significantly longer survival (mean, 27.1 versus 11.3 months; P < 0.0001). IDH1 mutations were frequent in glioblastomas diagnosed as secondary (22 of 30; 73%), but rare in primary glioblastomas (14 of 377; 3.7%: P < 0.0001). IDH1 mutations as genetic marker of secondary glioblastoma corresponded to the respective clinical diagnosis in 95% of cases. Glioblastomas with IDH1 mutation diagnosed as primary had clinical and genetic profiles similar to those of secondary glioblastomas, suggesting that they may have rapidly progressed from a less malignant precursor lesion that escaped clinical diagnosis and were thus misclassified as primary. Conversely, glioblastomas without IDH1 mutations clinically diagnosed as secondary typically developed from anaplastic rather than low-grade gliomas, suggesting that at least some were actually primary glioblastomas, that may have been misclassified, possibly due to histologic sampling error.

Conclusion: IDH1 mutations are a strong predictor of a more favorable prognosis and a highly selective molecular marker of secondary glioblastomas that complements clinical criteria for distinguishing them from primary glioblastomas. (Clin Cancer Res 2009;15(19):6002–7)
Clinical Outcomes of Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Early Gastric Cancer by Indication Criteria
Authors: Yamaguchi Naoyuki , Isomoto Hajime , Fukuda Eiichiro , Ikeda Kohki , Nishiyama Hitoshi , Akiyama Motohisa , Ozawa Eisuke , Ohnita Ken , Hayashi Tomayoshi , Nakao Kazuhiko , Kohno Shigeru , Shikuwa Saburo
Published: September 2009

Background and Study Aims: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) can remove early gastric cancer (EGC) en bloc. We sought to assess the feasibility and efficacy of ESD and the clinical outcomes based on the indication criteria. Patients and Methods: 551 patients with 589 EGC lesions were divided into the guideline criteria group (elevated lesion ≤20 mm in diameter and depressed lesion ≤10 mm without ulceration) and the expanded criteria group (mucosal cancer without ulcer findings irrespective of tumor size; mucosal cancer with ulcer findings ≤3 cm in diameter; and minute submucosal invasive cancer ≤3 cm in size). Results: En bloc, complete and curative resection were achieved in 98.6 and 93.0, 95.1 and 88.5, and 97.1 and 91.1%, for the guideline and expanded criteria lesions, respectively; the differences between the 2 groups were significant for each. The expanded criteria lesions were at significantly higher risk of ESD-associated bleeding and perforation. Overall survival was adequate irrespective of the indications, and the disease-specific survival rates were 100% in both. Conclusion: ESD for EGCs that met the expanded criteria was acceptable, though the resection rates and safety were decreased compared to those for the guideline criteria lesions.
Comparison of the Effects of Low Intra-Abdominal Pressure and Pentoxifylline on Oxidative Stress during CO2 Pneumoperitoneum in Rabbits
Authors: Nesek-Adam V. , Vnuk D. , Rašić Ž. , Rumenjak V. , Kos J. , Krstonijević Z.
Published: September 2009

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of low-pressure pneumoperitoneum and pentoxifylline, a methylxanthine derivative, in the prevention of injury caused by free oxygen radicals generated during CO2 pneumoperitoneum. Methods: Twenty-eight rabbits were allocated randomly to 4 groups. Control group rabbits (group 1) were subjected to anesthesia for 60 min; group 2 and 3 animals were subjected to a CO2 pneumoperitoneum (15 or 7 mm Hg); and group 4 rabbits received 50 mg/kg pentoxifylline, followed by a 15-mm-Hg pneumoperitoneum. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), lipid hydroperoxide, glutathione reductase and total antioxidant status were measured. Results: Compared with group 1, a significant increase in lipid hydroperoxide levels at the end of the pneumoperitoneum and 30 min after deflation and a significant decrease in total antioxidant status 24 h after deflation were recorded in group 2. In addition, a significant increase was observed in ALT, AST and LDH levels. These changes were attenuated by low-pressure pneumoperitoneum, whereas pentoxifylline pretreatment appeared to attenuate only transaminase levels. Conclusion: Low-pressure pneumoperitoneum could attenuate ischemia/reperfusion injury induced by CO2 pneumoperitoneum in a rabbit model whereas pentoxifylline pretreatment appeared to attenuate only transaminase levels. Pentoxifylline did not prevent the development of oxidative stress.
Regulation of the Migration and Survival of Monocyte Subsets by Chemokine Receptors and Its Relevance to Atherosclerosis
Authors: Gautier Emmanuel L. , Jakubzick Claudia , Randolph Gwendalyn J.
Published: September 2009

Monocytes are central mediators in the advance of atherosclerotic plaque, making them a natural therapeutic target for reducing disease burden. Here, we highlight recent advances in our current understanding of monocyte heterogeneity and its relevance to regulation of monocyte accumulation and function within atherosclerotic plaques. Differences that distinguish monocyte subsets include differential expression of chemokine receptors, especially CCR2 and CX3CR1. Ablation of expression of these 2 receptors (or their ligands) in mice has an additive inhibition on monocyte recruitment to atherosclerotic plaques. Moreover, simultaneously interfering with 3 key pathways—CCR2, CX3CR1, and CCR5—essentially abolishes atherosclerosis in mice. Here, we discuss how these chemokine receptors act at multiple points on at least 1 monocyte subset, regulating their mobilization from bone marrow, survival, or recruitment to plaques. Finally, we discuss how this knowledge may be useful clinically, emphasizing that CX3CR1 may in particular be a viable target for therapeutic manipulation of monocyte-derived cell fate in cardiovascular disease.
Impact of Thrombus Aspiration on Myocardial Tissue Reperfusion and Left Ventricular Functional Recovery and Remodeling After Primary Angioplasty
Authors: Liistro Francesco , Grotti Simone , Angioli Paolo , Falsini Giovanni , Ducci Kenneth , Baldassarre Silvia , Sabini Alessandra , Brandini Rossella , Capati Eugenia , Bolognese Leonardo
Published: September 2009

Background—

Failure to achieve myocardial reperfusion often occurs during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation. We hypothesized that manual thrombus aspiration during primary PCI would favorably influence tissue-level myocardial perfusion and left ventricular (LV) functional recovery and remodeling.

Methods and Results—

We prospectively randomized 111 patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction to either standard or thrombus-aspiration PCI. Primary end point of the study was postprocedural incidence of ST-segment resolution ≥70%. Secondary end points included Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) myocardial perfusion grade ≥2, the combination of TIMI myocardial perfusion grade ≥2 and ST-segment resolution ≥70%, post-PCI TIMI grade 3 flow, corrected TIMI frame count, myocardial contrast echocardiography score index, the absence of persistent ST-segment deviation, and time course of wall-motion score index, LV ejection fraction, and LV volume in the 2 groups. The incidence of ST-segment resolution ≥70% was 71% and 39% in the thrombus-aspiration and standard PCI groups, respectively (odds ratio, 3.7; 95% CI, 1.7 to 8.3;
P
=0.001). TIMI myocardial perfusion grade ≥2 was attained in 93% in the thrombus-aspiration group compared with 71% in the standard PCI group (
P
=0.006). The percentage of patients with ST-segment resolution ≥70% and TIMI myocardial perfusion grade ≥2 was significantly greater in the thrombus-aspiration group compared with the standard PCI group (69% versus 36%,
P
=0.0006). Myocardial contrast echocardiography score index was significantly higher in the thrombus-aspiration group compared with the standard PCI group (0.86�0.20 versus 0.65�0.31;
P
<0.0001). A significantly greater improvement in LV ejection fraction and in wall-motion score index from baseline to 6-month follow-up was observed in the thrombus-aspiration group compared with the standard PCI group (LV ejection fraction from 48�6% to 55�6% versus 48.7�7% to 49�8%,
P
<0.0001; wall-motion score index from 1.59�0.13 to 1.31�0.19 versus 1.64�0.20 to 1.51�0.26,
P
=0.008). Twelve patients (11%) developed LV remodeling at 6 months, 2 (4%) in the thrombus-aspiration group and 10 (18%) in the standard PCI group (
P
=0.02).

Conclusions—

Manual thrombus aspiration in the setting of primary PCI improves myocardial tissue-level perfusion as well as LV functional recovery and remodeling.
Effect of Family History on the Incidence of Varicose Veins: A Population-Based Follow-Up Study in Finland
Authors: Ahti Tiina M. , Mäkivaara Liisa A. , Luukkaala Tiina , Hakama Matti , Laurikka Jari O.
Published: September 2009

In the literature, the estimates of high risk of family history for varicose veins are based on prevalence rates from cross-sectional studies. The purpose of this study was to compare such prevalence rates with incidence rates from our longitudinal follow-up study to find out whether there is a difference due to the methodology. A validated questionnaire was used in 3 middle-aged cohorts (n = 6874) in Tampere, Finland. Positive family history was more common both in men (prevalence odds ratio 6.6; 95% confidence interval, 4.7–9.3) and women (4.9; 95% confidence interval, 4.0–6.0) with varicose veins compared to those without. However, positive family history was linked much less with the incidence of varicose veins than the prevalence of varicose veins in women (incidence odds ratio 1.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.1–2.8) and men 1.4 (95% confidence interval, 0.7–2.6). There is likely to be a hereditary component of varicose veins, but it is substantially less than usually proposed in literature.
Race, Pre- and Postdetention, and Juvenile Justice Decision Making
Authors: Leiber Michael J.
Published: September 2009

A detailed examination was conducted of the factors associated with pre- and postadjudication secure detention, including secure detention as a dispositional sentence and the effects of secure detention on decision making that further contribute to cumulative disadvantage for African Americans. The research was based on interpretations of the symbolic threat thesis, with emphasis on the stereotyping of African Americans as threatening, delinquent, and/or in need of confinement, to study decision making in one juvenile court jurisdiction. The results reveal that legal factors were most often predictors of each type of secure detention and decision making at other stages, but so too was race individually and in combination with legal and extralegal considerations and indirectly through secure detention. The relationships, however, did not always result in disadvantageous outcomes.
A Naturalistic Observational Study of Informal Segregation: Seating Patterns in Lectures
Authors: Koen Jennifer , Durrheim Kevin
Published: September 2009

In spite of the removal of legislated racial segregation, a number of observational studies in South Africa and elsewhere have shown that “informal,” nonlegislated segregation persists in spaces of everyday interaction. Most of these have been case studies of segregation at single sites. The authors seek to quantify segregation in a sample of sites, in order to develop models of the factors that predict segregation. To this end, the authors use photographs of 67 first-year university classes, taken during the first 2 weeks of the semester, and then again during the last 2 weeks of the semester. Segregation is analyzed using Campbell and colleagues’ measure of seating adjacencies. Across the classrooms, segregation correlates with class size, venue size, and class density, and results show higher levels of segregation in the second observation in comparison with the first. The authors conclude that interracial contact at university does not lead to the formation of cross-race friendships and consider a number of ergonomic factors that affect segregation.
Effects of Random Particle Dispersion and Particle Volume Fraction on the Indentation Behavior of SiC Particle-Reinforced Metal-Matrix Composites
Authors: Apalak M. Kemal , Ekici Recep , Yildirim Mustafa , Nair Fehmi
Published: September 2009

The present composite structure models assume that reinforcement particles are located in a repeated arrayed order through metal matrix. This study investigates the effect of both random particle distribution and particle volume fraction on the indentation behavior of Al 1080/SiC particle reinforced metal—matrix composites under a spherical indenter. The ceramic particles were distributed randomly in a certain particle volume fraction through aluminum matrix in order to achieve a similar structure to a real particulate composite structure as possible. The particle volume fraction strongly affects permanent indentation surface profiles and indentation depths. The indentation profile becomes smoother, and the peak indentation depth increases as the particle volume fraction decreases. The random particle distribution has a small effect on the peak indentation depth but affects strongly the permanent indentation profiles as well as the residual stress and strain fields in the indentation region. A small increase appears in the local particle concentration in the indentation region and is affected considerably by the random particle distribution. The hardness tests as well as the scanning electron microscopy micrographs of the indentation regions of specimens with different particle volume fractions are in good agreement with theoretical analysis.
γ-Radiation Assisted Fabrication of Hydroxyapatite-Polyacrylamide Nanocomposites with Possible Application in Bone Implantology
Authors: Bajpai A.K. , Bundela Hemlata
Published: September 2009

Hydroxyapatite (HA) impregnated poly-(acrylamide) nanocomposites were synthesized using γ-radiations and the prepared composites were characterized by different instrumental techniques. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies revealed the presence of carbonated HA, while the X-ray diffraction analysis showed the mean particle size of HA to be nearly 6.53 nm and width 1.278 nm. The nanosize of the hydroxyapatite crystals were also confirmed by Transmission electron microscopy analysis. The crystallinity of material was found to be 76.10% with interchain separation between 0.1998 and 0.1933 nm for native HA and HA nanocomposites, respectively. Thermogravimetric analysis studies resulted in the thermogram that resembled with that of the natural bone. Scanning electron microscope results revealed the pore size of prepared composite ranging between 50 and 100 µm. The modulus and compressive strength of prepared materials were found to be 726.40 and 39.55 MPa, respectively. Water uptake capacity of the prepared nanocomposites was quantified in terms of swelling ratio and the data were used to calculate network parameters of HA-PAm composites. The in vitro - blood compatibility results confirmed a fair level of blood compatibility of the prepared composites.
Private Equity in Australia
Authors: Westcott Mark
Published: September 2009

Private equity investment in Australia has changed in both extent and nature over the last few years. In particular, transactions where a private equity fund buys out a mature publicly listed company have increased. The targeting of ‘iconic’ companies such as Qantas by private equity heightened the concerns held in some quarters of the possible impact of private equity ownership on corporate stability and employment conditions in these companies. This article provides an overview of private equity transactions in Australia. It also reviews the major concerns with the private equity business model, which were presented by various parties to a senate enquiry in 2007. It argues that a window of opportunity was open during 2006 and 2007 for private equity owners to extract returns on their investment by reducing employment costs using the Work Choices legislation. That such an approach was not pursued suggests that private equity funds realize returns through a number of avenues, not just by reducing running costs or rationalizing productive assets.
Zeta Potential and Surface Physico-chemical Properties of Atmospheric Air-plasma-treated Polyester Fabrics
Authors: Guo Lamei , Campagne Christine , Perwuelz Anne , Leroux F.
Published: September 2009

The effects of atmospheric air-plasma treatments on woven polyester (PET) textile structures were studied by surface analysis methods: zeta potential, X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), wettability and capillarity methods. The zeta potential of the fabrics was based on the established principles of streaming potential. The zeta potential measurements showed that plasma-treated fabrics indicated an acidic surface character. The water contact angle on plasma-treated PET decreased from 80° to 40°, indicating an increase in the surface energy of PET fibers due to a change in the fiber surface chemical nature, which was confirmed by an increase of the oxygen content in the surface detected by XPS. The capillary weight increased from 12 to 200 mg. Both capillary and zeta measurements showed 700 W as the optimum plasma treatment power.
Unsteady-state Liquid Transport in Engineered Nonwoven Fabrics having Patterned Structure
Authors: Mao Ningtao
Published: September 2009

The initial stage of liquid absorption in unsaturated nonwoven fabrics (e.g. dry wipes, absorbent materials and hygiene products) is an unsteady-state fluid flow. For the purpose of the engineering design of these nonwoven products, there is a need to predict the unsteady-state fluid flow in both homogeneous anisotropic nonwoven structures and heterogeneous patterned nonwoven fabrics having a dual-scale porosity structure. In this paper, the unsteady-state liquid wicking in homogeneous anisotropic nonwoven fabric structure has been modeled, and the relationship between unsteady-state liquid absorption in patterned nonwoven fabrics and its structural parameters has been established based on the fabric structural parameters.
Acute Hemodynamic Effects of Single‐Dose Sildenafil When Added to Established Bosentan Therapy in Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Results of the COMPASS‐1 Study
Authors: Gruenig Ekkehard , Michelakis Evangelos , Vachiéry Jean‐Luc , Vizza Carmine Dario , Meyer F. Joachim , Doelberg Martin , Bach Doris , Dingemanse Jasper , Galiè Nazzareno
Published: September 2009

This study investigated the acute pharmacodynamic effects of sildenafil in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and concomitant bosentan treatment, in view of a mutual pharmacokinetic interaction between the 2 drugs. This prospective, open‐label, noncomparative, multicenter, phase II study enrolled 45 patients (≥18 years) with stable PAH (idiopathic, familial, or related to corrected congenital systemic‐to‐pulmonary shunts, drugs, or toxins) and on bosentan treatment for at least 3 months. Patients underwent right heart catheterization to evaluate the acute hemodynamic effects of (a) inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) and (b) a single oral dose of sildenafil (25 mg). Mean pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) decreased from baseline following iNO (−15%; 95% confidence limits: −21%, −8%; P = .0001). A statistically significant decrease from baseline in mean PVR was also observed 60 minutes following sildenafil administration (−15%; 95% confidence limits: −21%, −10%; P < .0001). The reduction in PVR following sildenafil was comparable to that resulting from iNO. There were no unexpected safety findings. The pharmacodynamic effect suggests that addition of sildenafil to bosentan treatment can elicit additional hemodynamic benefits. These data represent a rationale for long‐term combination studies with the 2 compounds.
Case control study of gastrointestinal complications after cardiopulmonary bypass heart surgery
Authors: Zhang Guowei , Wu Naishi , Liu Hongyu , Lv Hang , Yao Zhifa , Li Junquan
Published: September 2009

Background: Gastrointestinal complications (GIC) after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery are rare, but, nevertheless, extremely dangerous.The identification of risks for GIC may be helpful in planning appropriate perioperative management strategies. The aim of the present study was to analyze perioperative factors of GIC in patients undergoing CPB surgery. Methods: We retrospectively analysed 206 patients who underwent GIC after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery from 2000 to 2007 and compared them with 206 matched control patients (matched for surgery, temperature, hemodilution and date). Univariate analysis and multiple logistic regression analysis were performed on 12 risk factors. Result: Sex and types of cardioplegia perfusate did not significantly influence the GIC after CPB surgery. Multiple logistic regression revealed that CPB time, preoperative serum creatinine (PSC) ≥ 179 mg/dL, emergency surgery, perfusion pressure ≤40mmHg, low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS), age ≥ 61, mechanical ventilation ≥96 h, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III and IV were predictors of the occurrence of GIC after CPB surgery. Perfusion pressure and aprotinin administration were protective factors. Conclusion: Gastrointestinal complications after CPB surgery could be predictive in the presence of the above risk factors. This study suggests that GIC can be reduced by maintenance of higher perfusion pressure and shortening the time on CPB and ventilation.
Bloodless aortic valve and ascending aorta replacement surgery requiring circulatory arrest: two case studies
Authors: Schill David M.
Published: September 2009

Blood and/or blood product transfusions are common during and after complicated cardiac procedures. Replacement of the aortic valve, ascending aorta, and coronary implantation requiring circulatory arrest are high-risk procedures. Blood product transfusions only add to the morbidity and mortality rates associated with these types of procedures. Perfusion strategies must be incorporated to decrease the effects of hemodiluton due to cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), and preserve platelets and clotting factors needed for hemostasis, post-operatively. We are reporting two consecutive cases where the patients presented with aortic valve stenosis accompanying an ascending aortic aneurysm requiring surgical correction using circulatory arrest. Neither patient required any blood or blood product donation throughout their hospital stay. Our strategies included minimizing our bypass circuit, utilization vacuum-assisted venous drainage, plasma sequestration, total circuit retrograde autologous priming (RAP), and cell salvage.
Toxicological implications of aqueous extract of Bambusa vulgaris leaves in pregnant Dutch rabbits
Authors: Yakubu MT , Bukoye BB , Oladiji AT , Akanji MA
Published: September 2009

Aqueous extract of Bambusa vulgaris L. leaves at 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight was investigated for toxic effects in pregnant rabbits. Apparently healthy, female rabbits (Dutch) weighing between 1.62 and 1.70 kg as previously used in our abortifacient study were paired overnight with male rabbits in ratio 2:1 and those that became pregnant were completely randomized into three groups (A-C). Group A (the control), received orally 1.85 mL/kg body weight (3 mL) of distilled water thrice daily on days 1-9 of pregnancy while groups B and C were treated orally with the same volume corresponding to 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight of the extract. Clinical signs of toxicity were not observed in all the animals during the study. The extract did not significantly alter (p > .05) the serum follicle stimulating hormone and total protein content of the pregnant rabbits throughout the exposure period whereas, the concentrations of luteinizing hormone, progesterone, albumin, globulin, urea and calcium decreased in the serum of the rabbits. At 250 mg/kg body weight, the extract increased kidney alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity whereas at 500 mg/kg body weight of the extract, the ALP level was similar to the control group. Liver ALP at all doses, as well as the activity of gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) at 500 mg/kg body weight was reduced. This reduction was accompanied by an increase in serum ALP and GGT at these doses. At 250 mg/kg, the extract increased kidney GGT. Conversely, at 500 mg/ kg, kidney GGT activity decreased. Liver and serum GGT were not altered by the 250 mg/kg. The extract also increased the serum levels of creatinine, uric acid, sodium, potassium and bicarbonate ions as well as total and conjugated bilirubin. In the hepatocytes of extract-treated animals, there was no evidence of necrosis, inflammation, fibrosis and degenerative changes in the central vein and radiating hepatic cords, while the glomerulus and the tubules of the nephrons also remained intact. The alterations in biochemical parameters by the aqueous extract of B. vulgaris leaves suggests adverse effect on the synthetic, secretory, reabsorptive and excretory functions of liver and kidney of the animals. Therefore, the absence of histopathological lesions in the hepatocytes and nephrons implies that histopathological changes are not a sensitive assay for the assessment of tissue damage by the extract.
My Nine Lives as an Academic
Authors: Charlés Laurie L.
Published: September 2009

In this article, I describe my experiences 72 hours after I was told I had a life-threatening medical condition. My experience as an autoethnographer and my interest in embodied knowing put a unique spin on the narrative that developed in those three days. What I present here is an autoethnographic story of my experience, which culminated in a “miraculous” life-saving procedure that probably saved my life—but left me with multiple questions about what it means to live it. As I interacted with professional health providers, friends, and loved ones, I became vividly cognizant of the many character roles I play and narratives I participate in my life as an academic. In this essay, I present nine role-changing moments, illustrating how my various constructed personal and professional identities emerged and changed during my brief, clarifying, brush with death.
Service Performance—Loyalty Intentions Link in a Business-to-Business Context: The Role of Relational Exchange Outcomes and Customer Characteristics
Authors: Briggs Elten , Grisaffe Douglas
Published: September 2009

This study evaluates the relationship between service performance and customer loyalty intentions in a business-to-business context. Specifically, the third-party logistics industry is used as a contextual setting for the research. A conceptual model is developed based on literature in social exchange theory and business buying behavior. The model suggests that service performance directly influences both social (i.e., trust) and economic (i.e., value) relationship outcomes and that these outcomes positively influence customer loyalty intentions. However, in contrast to existing business-to-consumer research, mediation analysis supports the hypothesis that the relationship between service performance and customer loyalty intention is fully mediated by relationship outcomes. Further analyses indicate that characteristics specific to business customers— organizational relationship norms and industry competitive intensity—have important moderating influences. Collectively, the findings imply that business-to-business service managers should move beyond simply tracking the performance of their services. Customer perceptions of relationship trust and perceived facilitation of economic outcomes also should be measured, since these are more proximal to loyalty outcomes. Further, service managers should leverage customer knowledge to optimize service delivery. Different service strategies should be implemented based on customers’ relational orientation and industry competitive dynamics. The article concludes with logical directions for future research.
Working Appreciatively to Improve Services for Children and Families
Authors: Onyett Steve
Published: September 2009

Service improvement approaches are described that specifically focus on appreciating the positive that individuals bring to contexts related to children and family services. This includes application of Solution-Focused approaches, Appreciative Inquiry and other approaches that promote a positive emotional climate and focus on what works. Their conceptual foundations are explored and particularly their value in supporting working well with complex adaptive systems. Specific applications described include leadership and management practice, work in school settings, engaging clinicians in healthcare improvement, establishing clinical networks, work with homeless youth, child protection and approaches to drawing out best practice and community development. The theme that unites is a focus on developing effective relationships at all levels and a pragmatic focus on what works so that we can find opportunities to do more of it.
A Qualitative Exploration of Children’s Understanding of Indiscriminate Friendliness
Authors: Bennett Julie , Espie Colin , Duncan Barbara , Minnis Helen
Published: September 2009

Eight young people (aged 9—14) were interviewed about indiscriminately friendly behaviour. The majority of the sample had a history of maltreatment and placements within foster and care settings. These young people were described as indiscriminately friendly by clinicians, guardians and via the Relationships Problems Questionnaire. Interview transcripts were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, a qualitative methodology. Emergent themes were drawn from interview data which highlighted the young people’s experiences of rejection and feelings of insecurity within their social interactions. While being aware of the risks associated with speaking to strangers and the efforts of adults attempting to protect them from the potential danger associated with indiscriminate friendliness, this group of young people demonstrated a trust of new people and a craving for kindness from others. Evidence was also collected which showed that these children attempted to exert control over others during social contact. These findings offer clinicians an insight into the social interactions of this vulnerable group of children and offer considerations for clinical practice.
Set-shifting in children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Yerys Benjamin E. , Wallace Gregory L. , Harrison Bryan , Celano Mark J. , Giedd Jay N. , Kenworthy Lauren E.
Published: September 2009

Research examining set-shifting has revealed significant difficulties for adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). However, research with high-functioning children with ASDs has yielded mixed results. The current study tested 6- to 13-year-old high-functioning children with ASD and typically developing controls matched on age, gender, and IQ using the Intradimensional/Extradimensional (ID/ED) Shift Test from the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery. Children with ASDs completed as many ED shifts and reversal ED shifts as controls; however, they made significantly more errors than controls while completing the ED reversal shifts. Analyses on a subset of cases revealed a significant positive correlation between ED reversal errors and the number of repetitive behavior symptoms in the ASD group. These findings suggest that high-functioning children with ASDs require additional feedback to shift successfully. In addition, the relationship between set-shifting and non-social symptoms suggests its utility as a potentially informative intermediate phenotype in ASDs.
Compressed dimensions in digital media occupations
Authors: Schmitz Weiss Amy , Higgins Joyce Vanessa de Macedo
Published: September 2009

This study explores how much the concept of globalization via the internet is transforming the occupation of journalists. This research relied on the expertise of online journalists from Latin America, North America and Europe through their participation in three sets of online focus groups. Our findings pointed to a perception by these specific online journalists of a compressed social distance between themselves and the audience, as well as a more compact time dimension impacting the news cycle. This study supports similar findings of the roles, responsibilities and resources of media workers in other digital occupations, where requirements of multitasking and adaptability are necessary. This exploratory study aims to serve as a foundation to explain how this online medium is evolving and how online journalists perform and operate within it.
Structure, agency, and change in an American newsroom
Authors: Ryfe David M.
Published: September 2009

Building on a prior ethnographic study conducted in the same newsroom, this essay offers a conceptual framework for understanding current efforts to transform metropolitan daily newspapers. At the time of the study, Calvin Thomas, a new editor and executive-vice president of the newspaper, mandated that his reporters produce more enterprise and less daily news. Yet, after a year, not only did reporters’ production of enterprise news decrease, their production of daily news actually increased. I explain this consequence as a result of the deep structure of daily newsgathering, coupled with the inability and/or unwillingness of reporters and editors to bear the costs of altering this structure. I argue that while the particulars of this case study may be peculiar to this newsroom, this conceptual framework is helpful for understanding the general process of transformation in American newspaper newsrooms that is currently under way.
Watchdog or witness? The emerging forms and practices of videojournalism
Authors: Wallace Sue
Published: September 2009

The introduction of new technology into news operations can affect working practices and often raises concerns about the impact on quality of output. Such is the case with videojournalism, an example of multiskilling enabled by new technology, where a solo newsgatherer acts as both reporter and camera operator. This article reports on a study into the introduction of videojournalism into three UK regional television newsrooms. It argues that ‘quality’ is a contested concept, influenced by professional and commercial imperatives. The notion of professional competence is also seen as a site of tension, critical to the discourse of professionalism, affecting negotiations around the values and identities of journalists. New technology is seen to contain the potential to improve as well as diminish quality of journalism and affect interpretations of journalists’ traditional role as watchdogs of society.
The shaping of an online feature journalist
Authors: Steensen Steen
Published: September 2009

This article explores the professional role and normative demands of online feature journalists. Through a longitudinal ethnographic case study of the work practices of feature journalists in the Norwegian online newspaper dagbladet.no, the article uncovers how the normative demands of a new professional role are negotiated within the online newsroom of a newspaper. It further reveals how the role of journalists is shaped by two axes: a historical axis of factors that have shaped the role of journalists throughout history, and a contemporary axis of the particulars of labour in modern society at large. The findings suggest that online feature journalists practise a more audience-driven and source-detached kind of journalism than their print counterparts. They further suggest that the remediation of feature journalism online yields increased status to the role of online journalists at large.
Can Peace Journalism Make Progress?
Authors: Shinar Dov
Published: September 2009

Johan Galtung’s criticisms in the 1970s of media representations that glamorize war evolved as the peace journalism alternative approach. Since then, peace journalism has developed into a philosophical framework and an arsenal of framing techniques, but has been criticized for conceptual and practical weaknesses, and the need to strengthen its methodology, conceptual framework and empirical validation. This study of the 2006 Lebanon War press coverage in Canada and Israel aims at contributing to the empirical dimension. Stories published on and during the war by the Canadian Toronto Sun and the Israeli Yediot Aharonot were content analysed according to criteria adapted from the literature. General findings demonstrate an expected tendency towards ‘war journalism’. Comparative findings for each newspaper, however, show that peace journalism is not entirely disregarded. While the study indicates both the salience and the resilience of war journalism, it also concludes that there are opportunities for the advancement of peace journalism and professional practices that could be adopted to achieve this.
Diversity in Foreign News in US Newspapers Before and After the Invasion of Iraq
Authors: Choi Jihyang
Published: September 2009

The objective of this study is to explore how the Iraq War affected the patterns of newspapers’ foreign news coverage, specifically how the war affected the quality of foreign news in three prominent US newspapers, the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times and the Miami Herald in 2001, 2003, and 2005. Diversity was adopted as a criterion to measure the quality of foreign news coverage, employing the Herfindahl Index to calculate the level of diversity. The study reveals that, in general, the diversity of sources, geographic origins and topics significantly decreased after the start of the war. This was due to the pattern of concentration on a few categories. After the invasion of Iraq, newspapers’ preferences for government sources, Middle East origins, military/defence related stories and news about international politics increased.