bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversal of Fortune
Authors: Goldberg Steven P.
Published: July 2011

The development of operations for transposition of the great arteries (TGA) culminating in the eventual success of the arterial switch operation (ASO) remains one of the most intriguing demonstrations of ingenuity in the history of cardiac surgery. Very early attempts at switching the great arteries were daring but unsuccessful. This early lack of success with the ASO proved daunting, and yielded to “venous” switches, with increasing success. These venous switches evolved into the atrial baffle procedures, which began in the first golden age of TGA surgery of the 1960s and 1970s. The continued quest for an anatomic correction resulted in other clever operations before the modern era of the ASO.
T cell–independent restimulation of FVIII-specific murine memory B cells is facilitated by dendritic cells together with toll-like receptor 7 agonist
Authors: Pordes Aniko G. , Baumgartner Christina K. , Allacher Peter , Ahmad Rafi U. , Weiller Markus , Schiviz Alexandra N. , Schwarz Hans Peter , Reipert Birgit M.
Published: July 2011

Memory B cells are involved in long-term maintenance of antibody-dependent immunologic disorders. Therefore, it is essential to understand how the restimulation of FVIII-specific memory B cells in hemophilia A with FVIII inhibitors is regulated. We asked whether concurrent activation of the innate immune system by an agonist for toll-like receptor (TLR) 7 is able to facilitate the differentiation of FVIII-specific memory B cells in the absence of T-cell help. TLR7 recognizes single-stranded RNA as contained in RNA viruses such as influenza, Sendai, and Coxsackie B viruses. Our results indicate that highly purified murine memory B cells do not differentiate into FVIII-specific antibody-secreting cells in the presence of FVIII and the TLR7 agonist when cultured in the absence of CD4+ T cells. However, CD11c+ dendritic cells facilitate the T cell–independent differentiation of FVIII-specific memory B cells but only in the presence of FVIII and the TLR7 agonist. In contrast to T cell–dependent restimulation, the antibody response after T cell–independent restimulation of FVIII-specific memory B cells is skewed toward IgG2a, an antibody subclass that is efficient in activating the complement system and in inducing Fc-receptor–mediated effector functions, both are required for effective immune responses against pathogens.
Campylobacter jejuni dsb gene expression is regulated by iron in a Fur-dependent manner and by a translational coupling mechanism
Authors: Grabowska Anna D , Wandel Michał P , Łasica Anna M , Nesteruk Monika , Roszczenko Paula , Wyszyńska Agnieszka , Godlewska Renata , Jagusztyn-Krynicka Elzbieta K
Published: July 2011

Background

Many bacterial extracytoplasmic proteins are stabilized by intramolecular disulfide bridges that are formed post-translationally between their cysteine residues. This protein modification plays an important role in bacterial pathogenesis, and is facilitated by the Dsb (disulfide bond) family of the redox proteins. These proteins function in two parallel pathways in the periplasmic space: an oxidation pathway and an isomerization pathway. The Dsb oxidative pathway in Campylobacter jejuni is more complex than the one in the laboratory E. coli K-12 strain.

Results

In the C. jejuni 81-176 genome, the dsb genes of the oxidative pathway are arranged in three transcriptional units: dsbA2-dsbB-astA, dsbA1 and dba-dsbI. Their transcription responds to an environmental stimulus - iron availability - and is regulated in a Fur-dependent manner. Fur involvement in dsb gene regulation was proven by a reporter gene study in a C. jejuni wild type strain and its isogenic fur mutant. An electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) confirmed that analyzed genes are members of the Fur regulon but each of them is regulated by a disparate mechanism, and both the iron-free and the iron-complexed Fur are able to bind in vitro to the C. jejuni promoter regions. This study led to identification of a new iron- and Fur-regulated promoter that drives dsbA1 gene expression in an indirect way. Moreover, the present work documents that synthesis of DsbI oxidoreductase is controlled by the mechanism of translational coupling. The importance of a secondary dba-dsbI mRNA structure for dsbI mRNA translation was verified by estimating individual dsbI gene expression from its own promoter.

Conclusions

The present work shows that iron concentration is a significant factor in dsb gene transcription. These results support the concept that iron concentration - also through its influence on dsb gene expression - might control the abundance of extracytoplasmic proteins during different stages of infection. Our work further shows that synthesis of the DsbI membrane oxidoreductase is controlled by a translational coupling mechanism. The dba expression is not only essential for the translation of the downstream dsbI gene, but also Dba protein that is produced might regulate the activity and/or stability of DsbI.
Cost-Effectiveness of Universal Hepatitis B Virus Screening in Patients Beginning Chemotherapy for Solid Tumors
Authors: Day Fiona L. , Karnon Jonathan , Rischin Danny
Published: July 2011

Purpose

Universal screening for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection before chemotherapy has been recommended. We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of HBV screening before chemotherapy given for nonhematopoietic solid tumors (STs).

Methods

A decision-analytic model was used to compare the cost-effectiveness of universal screening conducted per professional guidelines versus no screening in hypothetical patient cohorts beginning adjuvant chemotherapy for early breast cancer or palliative chemotherapy for advanced non–small-cell lung cancer. Survival times were extrapolated using Markov models. Probabilities were derived from published studies and costs estimated from the perspective of the Australian health care system. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed, including with the application of an alternative HBV screening strategy.

Results

Using an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio threshold of $50,000 (Australian dollars) per life-year (LY) saved, universal HBV screening was not cost-effective for adjuvant patients ($88,224/LY, 13% probability of being cost-effective), palliative patients ($1,344,251/LY, 0%), or pooled (all) patients ($149,857/LY, 1%). Sensitivity analyses found that screening approached cost-effectiveness among adjuvant patients with the highest reported rates of undiagnosed chronic HBV (65%, $59,445/LY) or HBV reactivation with chemotherapy (41%, $56,537/LY). Cost- effectiveness was also significantly influenced by HBV population prevalence. An alternative screening strategy using hepatitis B surface antigen testing only produced the most economically favorable results, with $30,126/LY (80% probability) for adjuvant patients and $51,201/LY (43%) for the pooled cohort.

Conclusion

Universal HBV screening conducted per current guidelines is not cost-effective in patients with STs. Screening may be economically favorable in selected patient subpopulations and/or with simplification of the screening strategy.
Deliberation as Inquiry: Aristotle's Alternative to the Presumption of Open Alternatives
Authors: Nielsen Karen Margrethe
Published: July 2011

This article examines Aristotle's model of deliberation as inquiry (zêtêsis), arguing that Aristotle does not treat the presumption of open alternatives as a precondition for rational deliberation. Deliberation aims to uncover acts that are up to us and conducive to our ends; it essentially consists in causal mapping. Unlike the comparative model presupposed in the literature on deliberation, Aristotle's model can account for the virtuous agent's deliberation, as well as deliberation with a view to “satisficing” desires and deliberation that fails to uncover any expedient course of action. Aristotle's account of the constraints governing rational deliberation is furthermore not incompatibilist—for all Aristotle says, we may deliberate rationally despite being committed to the truth of determinism.
Capture of Radioactive Nuclear Wastes from Sea Water by Use of Clay Minerals
Authors: Morimoto Kazuya , Tamura Kenji , Umemura Yasushi , Sato Hisako , Yamagishi Akihiko
Published: July 2011

The use of smectite-type clay minerals is proposed for capturing radioactive nuclear wastes from sea water. Iodine molecules dissolved in a 3 wt % aqueous NaCl solution were completely taken up by a column packed with Ag-modified synthetic saponite. Cs+ and Sr2+ ions in a 3 wt % aqueous NaCl solution were adsorbed efficiently on a column packed with magnesium vermiculite under appropriate conditions.
Risk, Delay, and Convex Self-Control Costs
Authors: Fudenberg Drew , Levine David K
Published: July 2011

We develop a dual-self model of self-control that is compatible with modern dynamic macroeconomic theory and evidence. We show that a convex cost of self-control explains a wide range of behavioral anomalies concerning risk, including the Allais paradox, and also explains the observed interaction between risk and delay. We calibrate the model to obtain a quantitative fit. We find that most of the data can be explained with subjective interest rates in the range of 1–7 percent, short-run relative risk aversion of about two, and a time horizon of one day for the short-run self. (JEL D11, D44, D81)
The effects of a plant proteinase inhibitor from Enterolobium contortisiliquum on human tumor cell lines
Authors: Nakahata Adriana Miti , Mayer Barbara , Ries Christian , de Paula Cláudia Alessandra Andrade , Karow Marisa , Neth Peter , Sampaio Misako U. , Jochum Marianne , Oliva Maria Luiza V.
Published: July 2011

Supplementary to the efficient inhibition of trypsin, chymotrypsin, plasma kallikrein, and plasmin already described by the EcTI inhibitor fromEnterolobium contortisiliquum, it also blocks human neutrophil elastase (Kiapp=4.3 nm) and prevents phorbol ester (PMA)-stimulated activation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 probably via interference with membrane-type 1 (MT1)-MMP. Moreover, plasminogen-induced activation of proMMP-9 and processing of active MMP-2 was also inhibited. Furthermore, the effect of EcTI on the human cancer cell lines HCT116 and HT29 (colorectal), SkBr-3 and MCF-7 (breast), K562 and THP-1 (leukemia), as well as on human primary fibroblasts and human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) was studied. EcTI inhibited in a concentration range of 1.0–2.5 μmrather specifically tumor cell viability without targeting primary fibroblasts and hMSCs. Taken together, our data indicate that the polyspecific proteinase inhibitor EcTI prevents proMMP activation and is cytotoxic against tumor cells without affecting normal tissue remodeling fibroblasts or regenerative hMSCs being an important tool in the studies of tumor cell development and dissemination.
Humor in the collectivist Arab Middle East: The case of Lebanon
Authors: Kazarian Shahe S.
Published: July 2011

The Lebanese people are lovers of the social and the humorous, and the soul of their humor is manifest in their social gatherings, tales, civil and religious celebrations, songs, jokes, literature, theatre, cartoons, and spontaneous wit. In the present article, humor, Arabic
Static and Dynamic Behavior of Hydro-Collapsible Soils
Authors: Elkady Tamer Y. , Houston Sandra L. , Houston William N.
Published: July 2011

Collapsible soils, whether engineered or naturally occurring, may exist in seismic zones. This study focuses on the evaluation of the shear strength and volume change of collapsible soils subjected to static and dynamic shear loading under a range of confining pressures and wetting conditions which ranged from “as-prepared” to soaked to backpressure saturated. Tests are conducted on reconstituted samples simulating compacted engineered fill and natural density samples. Prior to shear loading (whether static or dynamic), triaxial response-to-wetting tests are performed under soaked or backpressure saturated conditions. Volumetric strains are measured using an image processing technique and the results are compared with those obtained from a one-dimensional test. A series of consolidated-undrained triaxial tests are performed to evaluate undrained shear strength after wetting, and correlations between undrained shear strength and degree of saturation are obtained. A series of stress-controlled cyclic triaxial tests are performed to evaluate the dynamic shear strength after wetting. Trends for the development of axial strain with the progression of loading cycles are dependent on wetting conditions (degree of saturation/matric suction). Furthermore, the cyclic stress ratio at failure is correlated with degree of saturation and charts for the evaluation of dynamic settlement of the test soils are developed. Finally, post-cyclic static shear strengths are determined by conducting a series of undrained static shear triaxial tests on selected samples following the application of cyclic load.
Non-isothermal moisture movement in unsaturated kaolin: An experimental and theoretical investigation
Authors: Cleall Peter J , Martand Singh Rao , Thomas Hywel R
Published: July 2011

Non isothermal moisture movement in unsaturated kaolin is investigated in a series of experiments. Vapour transfer is then empirically quantified, and its theoretical representation considered. A thermo-hydraulic cell is used to apply thermal and hydraulic gradients to confined specimens in a number of thermal gradient, thermal-hydraulic gradient, and isothermal-hydraulic tests. Transient measurements of the thermal regime are made, and end of test measurement of moisture content, porosity, and chemical composition from a number of identical tests run for different durations allow pseudo transient variations of these parameters to be established. In each of the tests, where a thermal gradient is applied, the accumulation of chloride ions in the hottest regions indicates a cyclic movement of vapour and liquid moisture. Estimated vapour fluxes are determined by consideration of overall moisture and conservative ion movements in the sealed thermal gradient tests. These vapour fluxes are then compared to those predicted by an established vapour flow theory, and a modification to this theory is proposed based on a variable enhancement factor.
Thyroxine-induced expression of pyroglutamyl peptidase II and inhibition of TSH release precedes suppression of TRH mRNA and requires type 2 deiodinase
Authors: Marsili Alessandro , Sanchez Edith , Singru Praful , Harney John W , Zavacki Ann Marie , Lechan Ronald M , Larsen P R
Published: July 2011

Suppression of TSH release from the hypothyroid thyrotrophs is one of the most rapid effects of 3,3′,5′-triiodothyronine (T3) or thyroxine (T4). It is initiated within an hour, precedes the decrease in TSHβ mRNA inhibition and is blocked by inhibitors of mRNA or protein synthesis. TSH elevation in primary hypothyroidism requires both the loss of feedback inhibition by thyroid hormone in the thyrotrophs and the positive effects of TRH. Another event in this feedback regulation may be the thyroid hormone-mediated induction of the TRH-inactivating pyroglutamyl peptidase II (PPII) in the hypothalamic tanycytes. This study compared the chronology of the acute effects of T3 or T4 on TSH suppression, TRH mRNA in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN), and the induction of tanycyte PPII. In wild-type mice, T3 or T4 caused a 50% decrease in serum TSH in hypothyroid mice by 5 h. There was no change in TRH mRNA in PVN over this interval, but there was a significant increase in PPII mRNA in the tanycytes. In mice with genetic inactivation of the type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase, T3 decreased serum TSH and increased PPII mRNA levels, while T4-treatment was ineffective. We conclude that the rapid suppression of TSH in the hypothyroid mouse by T3 occurs prior to a decrease in TRH mRNA though TRH inactivation may be occurring in the median eminence through the rapid induction of tanycyte PPII. The effect of T4, but not T3, requires the type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase.
Outcome and Prognostic Features in Opsoclonus-Myoclonus Syndrome From Infancy to Adult Life
Authors: Brunklaus Andreas , Pohl Keith , Zuberi Sameer M. , de Sousa Carlos
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVE:

Opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome (OMS) is a serious and often chronically disabling neurologic illness with onset in early childhood. Our aim was to identify long-term neurologic sequelae of OMS and predictors for disease outcome.

METHODS:

We retrospectively assessed the case records of 101 patients diagnosed with OMS over a 53-year period. Clinical data were obtained from medical record review; we documented age at onset, severity of symptoms, response to treatment, and neurocognitive sequelae.

RESULTS:

Overall, 21% of the patients had a neuroblastoma detected; however, in those born after 1990, this figure rose to 40%. Sixty-one percent of the patients had a chronic-relapsing course, 32% experienced several acute exacerbations, and 7% had a monophasic course. At the most recent review, 60% had residual motor problems, 66% speech abnormalities, 51% learning disability, and 46% behavior problems. One-third of the patients had normal intellectual outcome and cessation of symptoms. A severe initial presentation predicted a chronic disease course (odds ratio [OR]: 2.77 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.47–5.23]; P = .002) and later learning disability (OR: 2.03 [95% CI: 1.08–3.79]; P = .026). Those with cognitive impairment were younger at disease onset (15.0 vs 19.5 months; P = .029). A chronic-relapsing disease course was associated with motor (P < .001), speech (P = .001), cognitive (P < .001), and behavior (P = .006) problems.

CONCLUSIONS:

OMS is a chronic and debilitating illness; those with severe initial symptoms and those who are very young at disease onset are at increased risk of developing long-term sequelae. It is important for affected children to be identified early, because they might benefit from targeted immunomodulating therapy in specialist centers.
Spectroscopic Characterization of Ultra-thin Al2O3/SiO2/Si Films by SR-XPS
Authors: Lay Thithi , Imamura Motoyasu , Matsubayashi Nobuyuki
Published: July 2011

Al2O3 films (2-5nm) deposited on SiO2/Si (100) n-type substrate with thickness 500μm were characterized by Synchrotron Radiation- X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (SR-XPS). Excitation energy 730eV show surface sensitive results compare to 1000eV. Using excitation energy 730eV, Al, Si, O core-level elements and their excited species were analyzed. Plasmon loss peak with energy separation (18.8-19.1eV) for Al2p main peak and (14.7-15.3eV) for Al2s main peak is likely due to bulk plasmon. XPS spectra of O1s peak showed different onset and energy seperation for each sample. Energy seperation between O1s peak and onset of plasmon is 8.4eV for 5nm lead to band gap of Al2O3 layer. But and in case of 2nm this value is 9.2eV, hence, it is likely corresponds to SiO2 interfacial layer.The reason for this might consider as top Al2O3 form island rather than homogenous oxide layer.
The Impact of Summer Research Experience for Science Teachers on Classroom Instruction
Authors: Sen T. , Baker D. R. , Culbertson R. J.
Published: July 2011

More than 100 science and mathematics teachers have participated in the ASU Math and Science Teaching Fellows program for summers in 2007-2010 at Arizona State University. The goal of the program was to expose the teachers to the real world of science and help them transfer the experience into the classroom. The teachers spend the mornings in small groups in assigned research laboratories and afternoons in whole group interactive sessions. During the afternoon sessions the teachers worked on a poster presentation and a classroom unit integrating the research experience. The present study focuses on the impact of the research experiences on the teachers’ classrooms and the differences between a larger and longer program (37 teachers for 5 weeks in 2009) and a smaller and shorter program (8 teachers for 4 weeks in 2010). The lesson plans were coded based on a rubric. The posters were coded using qualitative analysis software. The scores on the lesson plans and the frequency of codes on transfer to classroom were higher in 2010 compared to those in 2009. The results indicate that the research experience program had a better impact on transfer to school curriculum with a smaller cohort of teachers. This implies that future research experience programs should be designed for smaller groups of teachers.
Underrepresented Minority Diversity in Materials Science and Engineering
Authors: Bowman Keith J
Published: July 2011

During the decade 2000 to 2009, the diversity trends for bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees and faculty underwent very different changes in the number and fraction of women represented compared to men in the field of materials science and engineering (MSE). Although the number and fraction of women increased substantially in graduate programs and within faculties, the fraction of women receiving bachelor’s of science degrees in engineering (BSE) in this field was significantly lower in 2009 than in 2000. In contrast with gender, the outcomes for diversity in terms of underrepresented minorities (URMs) across the decade are more disappointing. The potential implications are discussed with respect to ongoing limited degree attainment of URMs in many engineering and science disciplines
Research Experiences for Undergraduates in Renewable Energy
Authors: Stone Chuck
Published: July 2011

During summers 2009 and 2010, the Renewable Energy Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (REMRSEC) at the Colorado School of Mines (CSM) successfully piloted a 10-week Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program that addressed fundamental materials issues related to the science and technology of renewable energy. In January 2011, the National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded CSM a three-year grant to establish an REU Site that will strengthen our recruiting of women, underrepresented minorities, and persons with disabilities in research. This paper describes the features of these pilot programs and outlines the nature of our 2011 REU.
Stress Distribution Around Maxillary Anterior Implants as a Factor of Labial Bone Thickness and Occlusal Load Angles: A 3-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Alikhasi Marzieh , Siadat Hakimeh , Geramy Allahyar , Hassan-Ahangari Ahmad
Published: July 2011

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of the stress/strain distribution in buccal bone of an anterior maxillary implant using 3 bone thicknesses under 5 different loading angles. Different testing conditions incorporating 3 buccal bone thicknesses, 3 bone compositions, and 5 loading angles of an anterior maxillary implant were applied in order to investigate the resultant stress/strain distribution with finite element analysis. The maximum equivalent stress/strain increased with the decreasing of loading angle relative to the long axis. In addition to loading angle, bone quality and quantity also influenced resultant stress distribution. Dental practitioners should consider combinations of bone composition, diameter, and load angulations to predict success or failure for a given implant length and diameter.
Cumulative Victimization, Psychological Distress, and High-Risk Behavior Among Substance-Involved Women
Authors: Golder Seana , Logan TK
Published: July 2011

This research addressed two questions: (a) What is the relationship between different patterns of cumulative victimization and psychological distress? And (b) How does the pattern of cumulative victimization and psychological distress influence women’s engagement in substance- and sex-related risk behavior? Data were analyzed from interviews with 149 sexually active, crack-using women who completed a follow-up interview after participating in the Kentucky National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) AIDS Cooperative Agreement. Findings from the multivariate analyses indicated that victimization accounted for 5% and 39% of the variance in psychological distress and high-risk behavior, respectively; cumulative victimization and psychological distress accounted for 6% to 11% of the variance in the high-risk behaviors. Results highlight the affects of childhood and adult victimization on psychological distress and the associations between different types of psychological distress and risk behavior.
Application of Commercial Software to the Classification of Suicide Cases: A Brief Report
Authors: Rezaeian Mohsen , Dunn Graham , St. Leger Selwyn , Appleby Louis
Published: July 2011

Mosaic Profiler software was used to classify suicide and open verdict cases during 1996 to 1998 in England and within England, for the London and the North West regions. The classification system was based on the socioeconomic characteristics of the last place of residence of the cases at the level of postcode. The results highlighted that deprived areas and areas that contain elderly population or those areas that suffer from lack of social cohesion are overrepresented, whereas affluent areas are underrepresented. All of these, although in the larger scale, seem to support the results of other studies. Nevertheless, more studies would be required before one can fully evaluate the application of the Mosaic Profiler in the field of spatial epidemiology.
Cognitive Therapy of Religious Depressed Patients: Common Concepts Between Christianity and Islam
Authors: Vasegh Sasan
Published: July 2011

The two most prevalent religions in the world are Christianity and Islam, each having more than one billion followers. It is well known that religious beliefs, including Christian and Islamic thoughts and beliefs, affect the feelings and behaviors of religious people. Many times, the psychopathological thoughts have religious contents. On the other hand, some studies have reported faster recovery of religious anxious and depressed patients by adding religious techniques, cognitions, and behaviors to the usual psychotherapy. This article discusses several religious thoughts and beliefs common to Christianity and Islam that the author has found useful in cognitive therapy of religious depressed patients and offers three case examples to illustrate how to use them. A set of such religious thoughts and concepts has important potential implications: more effective psychotherapy of religious Christian or Muslim patients, decreasing biases towards the patients from the other religion, and designing questionnaires and manuals for assessing the role of these thoughts in treatment or prevention of psychiatric disorders.
Adsorption Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Chlorimuron‐Ethyl in Two Typical Chinese Soils
Authors: Ren Wenjie , Wang Meie , Zhou Qixing
Published: July 2011

The adsorption of chlorimuron‐ethyl in two typical northeastern Chinese soils before and after removal of organic matter and removal of organic matter plus iron/aluminum oxides was investigated using batch equilibrium methods, and the effect of pH on the adsorption was also evaluated. The adsorption kinetics were fitted well with the Elovich and pseudo‐second‐order kinetic models (R2 = 0.973–0.985) and the adsorption isotherms conformed to the Linear, Freundlich, and Langmuir models (R2 > 0.963). The mineral fraction appeared to dominate adsorption of chlorimuron‐ethyl in brown earth (BE; Alfisols), while organic matter was the major component for the adsorption in black soil (BS; Mollisols). The adsorption of chlorimuron‐ethyl in the original and treated soils all decreased with increasing pH. Moreover, the effect of pH on the adsorption of chlorimuron‐ethyl in soil minerals was stronger than that in organic matter at acidic conditions.
Episodic Soil Succession on Basaltic Lava Fields in a Cool, Dry Environment
Authors: Vaughan Karen L. , McDaniel Paul A. , Phillips William M.
Published: July 2011

Holocene‐ to late Pleistocene‐aged lava flows at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve provide an ideal setting to examine the early stages of soil formation under cool, dry conditions. Transects were used to characterize the amount and nature of soil cover on across basaltic lava flows ranging in age from 2.1 to 18.4 ka. Results indicate that on flows <13 ka, very shallow organic soils (Folists in Soil Taxonomy) are the dominant soil type, providing an areal coverage of up to ∼25%. On flows ≥13.9 ka, deeper mineral soils including Entisols, Aridisols, and Mollisols become dominant and the areal extent increases to ≥95% on flows older than 18.4 ka. These data suggest there are two distinct pedogenic pathways associated with lava flows of the region. The first pathway is illustrated by the younger flows, where Folists dominate. In the absence of a major source of loess, relatively little mineral material accumulates and soils provide only minor coverage of the lava flows. Our results indicate that this pathway of soil development has not changed appreciably over the past ∼10 ka. The second pedogenic pathway is illustrated by the flows older than 13.9 ka. These flows have been subject to deposition of large quantities of loess during and after the last regional glaciation, resulting in almost complete coverage. Subsequent pedogenesis has given rise to Aridisols and Mollisols with calcic and cambic horizons and mollic epipedons. This research highlights the importance of regional climate change on the evolution of Craters of the Moon soilscapes.
Selenium Partitioning and Stable Isotope Ratios in Urban Topsoils
Authors: Schilling Kathrin , Johnson Thomas M. , Wilcke Wolfgang
Published: July 2011

A combination of sequential extraction with stable isotope ratio measurements of Se might offer new insights into biogeochemical processes governing Se turnover in soils. Therefore, we determined the Se partitioning among three operationally defined sequential extracts (0.1 mol L−1 K2HPO4–KH2PO4 at pH 7, 0.05 mol L−1 NaOH, conc. HNO3) and the stable isotope ratios of total Se (δ82/76Se values) in 10 topsoils under 5 different land uses (alluvial grasslands, forests, house gardens, parks, and roadside grassland) from the city of Bayreuth (ca. 73,000 inhabitants) in Germany. Furthermore, we determined S and SO42− concentrations and stable isotope ratios of total S (δ34S values) to support our interpretation of the Se concentrations and isotope ratios because of the chemical similarity of Se and S. All topsoils had low total Se concentrations (0.09–0.52 mg kg−1). The largest contribution to total Se was extracted with NaOH comprising up to 42%,which is thought to be associated with organic matter and metal oxides. The δ82/76Se values of total Se in the topsoils were close to the bulk Earth composition with an average δ82/76Se value of −0.03 ± SD 0.38‰ suggesting that there was no or little Se isotope fractionation in soil. We attribute the small isotope fractionation to the low bioavailability of Se as a consequence of the presence of Fe oxides (adsorbing the dominating Se(IV) forms strongly), organic matter, and SO42− (prevents biouptake of the Se(IV) forms) in the study soils. Small Se isotope fractionations of −0.59 to −0.35‰ in mainly forest soils and of 0.26 to 0.45‰ in mainly alluvial soils were presumably caused by soil/plant‐recycling and Se contamination by river water, respectively. In spite of the similarities in the assimilation of S and Se by organisms, the total S and Se isotope ratios in soil were not correlated. Our results demonstrate that Se in urban soils developed from Se‐poor substrates is minimally cycled through the biosphere likely because of low bioavailability and competition with SO42−.
Solid‐State NMR Analysis of Soil Organic Matter Fractions from Integrated Physical–Chemical Extraction
Authors: Cao Xiaoyan , Olk Daniel C. , Chappell Mark , Cambardella Cynthia A. , Miller Lesley F. , Mao Jingdong
Published: July 2011

Fractions of soil organic matter (SOM) were extracted by an integrated physical–chemical procedure and their chemical natures were characterized through 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. For the 0‐ to 5‐cm depth of a corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean [Glycine max. (L.) Merr.] soil in Iowa, we extracted in sequence the light fraction, two size fractions of particulate organic matter (POM), and two NaOH‐extractable humic acid fractions based on their binding to soil Ca2+: the unbound mobile humic acid fraction and the calcium humate fraction. Whole SOM was obtained by dissolving the soil mineral component through HF washes. All samples were analyzed by advanced 13C NMR techniques, including quantitative direct polarization/magic angle spinning, spectral‐editing techniques, and two‐dimensional 1H–13C heteronuclear correlation NMR. The NMR spectra were comparable for the light fraction and two POM fractions and were dominated by carbohydrates and to a lesser extent lignins or their residues, with appreciable proteins or peptides. By contrast, spectra of the two humic fractions were dominated by aromatic C and COO/N–C=O groups, with smaller proportions of carbohydrates and NCH/OCH3 groups, indicative of more humified material. This trend was yet more pronounced in the calcium humate fraction. The spectrum for whole SOM had signals intermediate between these two groups of SOM fractions, suggesting contributions from both groups. Our results for this soil suggest that either chemical or physical fractions alone will partially represent whole SOM, and their integrated use is likely to provide greater insight into SOM structure and possibly function, depending on the research issue.
Can Soil Carbonate Dissolution Lead to Overestimation of Soil Respiration?
Authors: Tamir Guy , Shenker Moshe , Heller Hadar , Bloom Paul R. , Fine Pinchas , Bar-Tal Asher
Published: July 2011

Root and microbial respiration is considered to be the main source of CO2 production in soil; however, calcite dissolution in calcareous soils may contribute to the emitted CO2. The major aim of this research was to quantify the contribution of CaCO3 dissolution to CO2 emission from a soil with and without the addition of an organic residue. Emissions of CO2 and its δ13C from incubated noncalcareous (Golan Heights [GH], −26.23‰) and calcareous (Bet She'an [BS], −11.47‰) soils with and without the addition of a pasteurized chicken manure (PCM, −23.2‰) were determined. During 56 d of incubation, 445 and 1804 mg kg−1 CO2–C emitted from BS and GH soils, and PCM application caused additional emission of 2430 and 1884 mg kg−1 CO2–C, respectively. The NO3−–N concentrations in the control BS and GH soils were 46 and 133 mg kg−1 and PCM application increased it to 508 and 577 mg kg−1, respectively. The emitted CO2–δ13C from BS and GH soils were −20.0 ± 0.2‰ and −27.2 ± 0.09‰ and application of PCM changed it to −20.6 ± 0.42‰ and −23.7 ± 0.16‰, respectively. Consequently, the contributions of the inorganic source to CO2–C emission from BS without and with PCM and from GH with PCM were 113.4, 417.5, and 176 mg kg−1 (26.5, 14.5, and 5% of the total), respectively. We suggest that oxidation of organic matter, mineralization of organic N, NH4 nitrification, oxidation of organic S, and production of organic acids caused chemical dissolution of calcite and CO2 emission. Ignoring this process will result in overestimation of the respired C.
Generalized Density‐Corrected Model for Gas Diffusivity in Variably Saturated Soils
Authors: Deepagoda T.K.K. Chamindu , Moldrup Per , Schjønning Per , Kawamoto Ken , Komatsu Toshiko , de Jonge Lis Wollesen
Published: July 2011

Accurate predictions of the soil‐gas diffusivity (Dp/Do, where Dp is the soil‐gas diffusion coefficient and Do is the diffusion coefficient in free air) from easily measureable parameters like air‐filled porosity (ε) and soil total porosity (ϕ) are valuable when predicting soil aeration and the emission of greenhouse gases and gaseous‐phase contaminants from soils. Soil type (texture) and soil density (compaction) are two key factors controlling gas diffusivity in soils. We extended a recently presented density‐corrected Dp(ε)/Do model by letting both model parameters (α and β) be interdependent and also functions of ϕ. The extension was based on literature measurements on Dutch and Danish soils ranging from sand to peat. The parameter α showed a promising linear relation to total porosity, while β also varied with α following a weak linear relation. The thus generalized density‐corrected (GDC) model gave improved predictions of diffusivity across a wide range of soil types and density levels when tested against two independent data sets (total of 280 undisturbed soils or soil layers) representing Danish soil profile data (0–8 m below the ground surface) and performed better than existing models. The GDC model was further extended to describe two‐region (bimodal) soils and could describe and predict Dp/Do well for both different soil aggregate size fractions and variably compacted volcanic ash soils. A possible use of the new GDC model is engineering applications such as the design of highly compacted landfill site caps.
Distinguishing Boron Desorption from Mineral Dissolution in Arid‐Zone Soils
Authors: Goldberg Sabine , Suarez Donald L.
Published: July 2011

Boron release from six arid‐zone soil samples from the San Joaquin Valley of California was investigated as a function of reaction time, solution pH, and suspension density. A multiple batch extraction experiment was performed for 362 d to distinguish B desorption from B released from mineral dissolution. Amounts of B released decreased rapidly and reached a low constant value after about 6 mo of reaction time. Slopes of the B release curves for the last eight extractions approached zero (constant release rate), indicating that this B release was from mineral dissolution. We also did a shorter term experiment that contained added Mg and silicate in solution. These experiments were conducted to evaluate the contribution of B release from dissolution of B‐containing Mg silicate minerals. We determined that most of the B released from the soils can be attributed to release from sorption sites rather than resulting from dissolution of B‐containing Mg silicates. Various B soil tests were evaluated for their ability to measure native extractable adsorbed B. The diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA)–sorbitol extract was the best measure of available adsorbed B but still only extracted 48% of the amount of B released in the long‐term experiment. The greatest amount of B was extracted at the lowest suspension density for DTPA–sorbitol (92%) and phosphate buffer pH 6.6 (95%). These extractants are recommended for quantifying native extractable adsorbed B, which must be considered in application of chemical speciation transport models to describe B movement in soils. Incorporation of our results will allow improved predictions of soil solution B concentrations under diverse agricultural and environmental conditions.
Integral-balance solution to the Stokes’ first problem of a viscoelastic generalized second grade fluid
Authors: Hristov Jordan
Published: July 2011

Integral balance solution employing entire domain approximation and the
penetration dept concept to the Stokes? first problem of a viscoelastic
generalized second grade fluid has been developed. The solution has been
performed by a parabolic profile with an unspecified exponent allowing
optimization through minimization of the norm over the domain of the
penetration depth. The closed form solution explicitly defines two
dimensionless similarity variables and , responsible for the viscous and the
elastic responses of the fluid to the step jump at the boundary. The solution
was developed with three forms of the governing equation through its two
dimensional forms (the main solution and example 1) and the dimensionless
version showing various sides of the flow field and how the dimensionless
groups control it: mainly the effect of the Deborah number. Numerical
simulations demonstrating the effect of the various operating parameter and
fluid properties on the developed flow filed have been performed.
The Dirihlet problem for the fractional Poisson’s equation with Caputo derivatives: A finite difference approximation and a numerical solution
Authors: Beibalaev V.D. , Meilanov R.P.
Published: July 2011

A finite difference approximation for the Caputo fractional derivative of the
4-?, 1 < ? ? 2 order has been developed. A difference schemes for solving the
Dirihlet?s problem of the Poisson?s equation with fractional derivatives has
been applied and solved. Both the stability of difference problem in its
right-side part and the convergence have been proved. A numerical example was
developed by applying both the Liebman and the Monte-Carlo methods.
Role of Parenting Style in Achieving Metabolic Control in Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Shorer Maayan , David Ravit , Schoenberg-Taz Michal , Levavi-Lavi Ifat , Phillip Moshe , Meyerovitch Joseph
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVE

To examine the role of parenting style in achieving metabolic control and treatment adherence in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Parents of 100 adolescents with type 1 diabetes completed assessments of their parenting style and sense of helplessness. Parents and patients rated patient adherence to the treatment regimen. Glycemic control was evaluated by HbA1c values.

RESULTS

An authoritative paternal parenting style predicted better glycemic control and adherence in the child; a permissive maternal parenting style predicted poor adherence. A higher sense of helplessness in both parents predicted worse glycemic control and lesser adherence to treatment. Parental sense of helplessness was a significant predictor of diabetes control after correcting for other confounders (patient age, sex, and treatment method).

CONCLUSIONS

An authoritative nonhelpless parenting style is associated with better diabetes control in adolescents. Paternal involvement is important in adolescent diabetes management. These results have implications for psychological interventions.
Hemoglobin A1c, Fasting Glucose, and Cardiovascular Risk in a Population With High Prevalence of Diabetes
Authors: Wang Hong , Shara Nawar M. , Lee Elisa T. , Devereux Richard , Calhoun Darren , de Simone Giovanni , Umans Jason G. , Howard Barbara V.
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVE

We compared A1C and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) in predicting cardiovascular disease (CVD) in a population with widespread obesity and diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 4,549 American Indian adults underwent the Strong Heart Study (SHS) baseline examination (1989–1991). Data from 3,850 individuals (60% women) with baseline measurements of FPG and A1C and no prevalent CVD were analyzed; 1,386 had known diabetes. CVD events were ascertained over a median of 15 years.

RESULTS

A1C ≥6.5% had a 44.3% sensitivity and 98.9% specificity to identify participants with FPG ≥126 mg/dL. Increases in A1C were associated with adverse CVD risk factor profiles; individuals with known diabetes had worse profiles. For A1C <5, 5 to <5.5, 5.5 to <6, 6–6.5, or ≥6.5% or known diabetes, the multivariate-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) [95% CI] for coronary heart disease (CHD) was significant only for individuals with known diabetes (2.76 [2.17–3.51]). Similarly, the adjusted HRs for total CVD were significant only for individuals with A1C ≥6.5% or known diabetes (1.50 [1.10–2.04] and 2.52 [2.06–3.08], respectively). Similar results were observed for FPG.

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals with known or newly diagnosed diabetes had increased risk for CVD. Although A1C is more convenient than FPG in diagnosing diabetes, neither test adds to conventional CVD risk factors in predicting CHD or total CVD.
Walled In: Ordinary East Germans' Responses to 13 August 1961
Authors: Major Patrick
Published: July 2011

The building of the Berlin Wall on 13 August 1961 had repercussions not only on the international scene, but also for the power relationship between state and society in the German Democratic Republic. This article considers the short-, medium- and long-term reactions of the East German population to the border closure from a personal and political perspective, examining key groups such as educated elites, workers, and young people. The closed society elicited a new deference in the short term, but the author argues for considerable continuities of low-level disruptive behavior before and after 13 August. In the longer term, there was a generation born behind the Wall which by simple habituation rather than a conscious decision was forced to accept the new contours of the geopolitical landscape created by the Wall.
The Berlin Wall and its Resurrection as a Site of Memory
Authors: Harrison Hope M.
Published: July 2011

Initially after the fall of the Berlin Wall on 9 November 1989 and its state-sponsored demolition over the following year, only a handful of sites remained with pieces of the Berlin Wall still standing. These were magnets for foreign tourists, but Germans themselves, including German officials, were far more interested in creating a united future than in preserving parts of the divided past. With the passage of time, however, the Germans have increasingly come to believe in the importance of explaining the history of the Wall, commemorating its victims, and preserving its few authentic remains in Berlin. This article examines several key moments and debates in the process of the Germans coming-to-terms with the history of the Wall. It charts the process whereby the public and political leaders have devoted greater attention to the Wall in recent years, particularly on the occasions of the fifteenth and twentieth anniversaries of the fall of the Wall in 2004 and 2009 and the fiftieth anniversary of the erection of the Wall in 2011. Finally, the article analyzes lessons German politicians are drawing from the history of the Berlin Wall.
Synthesis of New Peptidyl- and Glycosylpyrimidine Derivatives
Authors: Aly Aly A. , Behalo Mohamed S.
Published: July 2011

A new series of 2- N-(phthalyl- or tosylamino acid)pyrimidines have been synthesised from the coupling of pyrimidine derivatives with phthalyl- or tosylamino acids. Hydrazinolysis of 2- N-phthalyl derivatives afforded unprotected amino acid derivatives. New derivatives of peptidylpyrimidines have been synthesised from the reaction of pyrimidine derivatives with α-amino acids methyl ester hydrochloride viz different routes. Also, new glycosides have been prepared from the reaction of pyrimidine derivatives with α-D-glucopyranosyl bromide. Most of the synthesised compounds showed a significant antimicrobial activity.