bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Mycobacterium sp. strain Spyr1 biomass and its biosorption behavior towards Cr(III) and Cr(VI) in single, binary and multi‐ion aqueous systems
Authors: Aryal Mahendra , Liakopoulou‐Kyriakides Maria
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND

Mycobacterium sp. biomass was used for removal of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) species from aqueous systems. Experimental results were processed with different kinetic, isotherm and thermodynamic models. Studies of the effect of co‐ions, biomass characterization and desorption were also undertaken.

RESULTS

Cr(III) and Cr(VI) sorption on Mycobacterium sp. biomass followed Ho pseudo‐second‐order kinetics. The Langmuir isotherm model described the biosorption of both chromium species, whereas the Temkin isotherm model for Cr(III) and Hill‐der Boer isotherm model for Cr(VI), respectively. Selectivity for Cr(III) and Cr(VI) biosorption was observed in binary mixtures with As(V), Mg+2, Ca+2, Cl−, SO4−2, CO3−2 and PO4−3 ions from 5 to 200 mg L−1 and with Cu+2, Ni+2, Co+2, Cd+2, Mn+2 and Zn+2 ions up to 20 and 50 mg L−1 for Cr(III) and Cr(VI) respectively. In multi‐ions systems, selectivity of both chromium species was achieved at a concentration of co‐ions up to 10 mg L−1. The thermodynamic parameters indicated the spontaneous and feasible nature of biosorption processes. Amine and carboxylic groups are mainly responsible in both chromium species binding, and the phosphate group is also involved in Cr(VI) sorption. Mycobacterium biomass exhibited almost the same removal efficiency up to five subsequent biosorption–desorption cycles for the two chromium species.

CONCLUSION

Mycobacterium sp. biomass can be used as efficient and economic biomass for removal of both chromium species from contaminated water. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Analysis of wet and dry periods in Serbia
Authors: Tošić Ivana , Unkašević Miroslava
Published: June 2013

ABSTRACT

In this study, wet and dry periods were analysed using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) on timescales of 1, 3, 6 and 12 months (SPI1, SPI3, SPI6 and SPI12) at ten stations in Serbia during the period 1949–2011. The onset of severe wetness and drought during the period 1999–2001 was presented. The distributions of the monthly precipitation amounts for each station were modelled by a gamma distribution. The severity and duration of the wet and dry periods were calculated. The generalized Pareto distribution (GPD) was applied to the SPI values for the timescales of 1 and 12 months during the period 1936–2011 in Belgrade. Furthermore, the severity and duration of the wet and dry periods for timescales of 1 and 12 months were analysed using the extreme value theory. Using the time series of the SPI, it was found that the frequency of droughts in the southern part of Serbia was higher than in the other parts of the country. The obtained results indicated that the GPD could be an appropriate distribution for SPI values less than −1 at the 1‐ and 12‐month timescales, and for the severity of the wet and dry periods at the 1‐month timescale.
Associations between circulation pattern frequencies and sea ice minima in the western Arctic
Authors: Ballinger Thomas J. , Sheridan Scott C.
Published: June 2013

In this study, a synoptic climatological approach is employed to assess the relationship between the frequency of circulation patterns (CPs) and the latitude of mid‐September sea ice minima in the western Arctic. Fifteen CPs are created via principal component analysis and cluster analysis from daily NCEP/NCAR reanalysis sea‐level pressure (SLP) fields across a grid from 50 to 90°N and 150°E–100°W from 1979 to 2011. The frequency of these CPs are statistically compared with the latitude of the sea ice minimum from passive microwave data for each of 11 equally‐spaced longitudes (176°W to 126°W) extending into the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas. Monthly frequencies for each of the 15 CPs from March to September, signifying the melt season, for each year are correlated with the ice minimum for that September. These monthly frequencies are then entered into a stepwise multiple linear regression (SMLR) and collectively, CP frequencies explain 40–79% of the total ice retreat variance across the longitudes. The frequency of one cluster, CP 11, representing a broad high pressure area over the Beaufort Sea, is highly correlated with the latitude of the sea ice minima; June and August frequencies of this pattern are the initial predictors at 8 of the 11 longitudes and explain 22–32% of the variance. This pattern has occurred more frequently from 2007 onwards; compared with a June mean occurrence of 9 days during 1979–2006, CP 11 occurred 16 times in June 2007, and on average more than 17 days per month during June 2008–2011. The Arctic Dipole (AD), Arctic Oscillation (AO), and Pacific‐North American (PNA) pattern indices are significantly correlated with CPs 11–13 frequencies throughout certain summer months, further indicating strong relationships between summer circulation and sea ice minima in the region.
Round window membrane permeability to golimumab in guinea pigs: A pilot study
Authors: Ghossaini Soha N. , Liu Jenny P. , Phillips Brett
Published: June 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Autoimmune inner ear disorder is one of a few types of sensorineural hearing loss that is treatable and potentially reversible. Treatment involves oral steroids and methotrexate. Other treatment modalities have been tried with variable success. All such treatments are systemic, with inherent side effects limiting their effectiveness. Recently, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α blockers have been suggested as a modality of treatment. The objective of this study was to assess the round window membrane permeability to golimumab, a TNF‐α blocker. This study is the first to look at the feasibility of local golimumab delivery into the inner ear, which may allow for targeted immune modulation of autoimmune inner ear disorders without the consequences of systemic treatment.

Study Design

This is a single‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, pilot study using guinea pigs to assess round window membrane permeability to golimumab.

Methods

Golimumab was instilled into the guinea pigs' middle ear. Inner ear fluid was sampled through the round window membrane after approximately 30 minutes of drug exposure. Golimumab presence in the inner ear was assessed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in both drug‐treated and control ears.

Results

Higher concentrations of golimumab were detected in the inner ear fluid samples of golimumab‐exposed ears than in the control ears. The difference was statistically significant (P < .001).

Conclusions

Golimumab crosses the round window membrane and is detected in measurable concentrations in the inner ear fluid after 30 minutes of exposure to the membrane. Further studies are needed to learn its pharmacokinetics and the time needed to reach optimal concentration in the inner ear.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 123:2840–2844, 2013
Transoral partial epiglottidectomy to treat dysphagia in post‐treatment head and neck cancer patients: A preliminary report
Authors: Jamal Nausheen , Erman Andrew , Chhetri Dinesh K.
Published: June 2013

Objectives

To determine symptoms and findings in patients with dysphagia related to epiglottic dysfunction. To analyze outcomes in patients who underwent partial epiglottidectomy due to dysphagia related to epiglottic dysfunction.

Study Design

Review and analysis of clinical data obtained as part of the diagnosis and treatment of patients with dysphagia related to epiglottic dysfunction.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all post‐treatment head and neck cancer patients who underwent epiglottidectomy at a single tertiary care referral center. Objective pre‐ and postprocedure swallow findings, endoscopic evaluation, and subjective improvement based on patient self‐reports were reviewed.

Results

Seven patients were identified based on endoscopic evaluation and modified barium swallow study (MBSS) as having epiglottic pathology leading to dysphagia. Specific anatomic and functional findings included thickening of the epiglottis, absence of epiglottic deflection, vallecular bolus retention during and after the swallow, and bolus backflow from the pharynx to the oral or nasal cavity. Partial epiglottidectomy was performed in these patients. Postoperative MBSS was analyzed for changes in swallow efficiency and safety. Nearly all patients demonstrated improved pharyngeal bolus passage with little to no added swallowing morbidity.

Conclusions

Preliminary findings suggest a role for partial epiglottidectomy in post‐treatment head and neck cancer patients with swallowing disorders. Ideal candidates have intact tongue base contraction and poor retroflexion of the epiglottis, which results in bolus obstruction at the level of the valleculae. Partial epiglottic resection enables improved bolus passage in the pharyngeal phase. Minimal postoperative morbidity occurs in the appropriately selected patient.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 124:665–671, 2014
Structure and blood compatibility of highly oriented poly(lactic acid)/thermoplastic polyurethane blends produced by solid hot stretching
Authors: Zhao Xiaowen , Ye Lin , Coates Phil , Caton‐Rose Fin , Martyn Michasel
Published: June 2013

Highly oriented poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) blends were fabricated through solid hot stretching technology in an effort to improve the mechanical properties and blood biocompatibility of PLA as blood‐contacting medical devices. It was found that the tensile strength and modulus of the blends can be improved dramatically by stretching. With the increase of draw ratio, the cold crystallization peak became smaller, and the glass transition and the melting peak moved to high temperature, while the crystallinity increased, and the grain size of PLA decreased, indicating of the stress‐induced crystallization during drawing. The oriented blends exhibited structures with longitudinal striations which indicate the presence of micro‐fibers. TPU phase was finely and homogeneously dispersed in the PLA, and after drawing, TPU domains were elongated to ellipsoid. The introduction of TPU and orientation could enhance the blood compatibility of PLA by prolonging kinetic clotting time, and decreasing hemolysis ratio and platelet activation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of poly(3‐hexylthiophene)‐block‐poly(ethylene)‐block‐poly(3‐hexylthiophene) via a combination of ring‐opening olefin metathesis polymerization and grignard metathesis polymerization
Authors: Kang Songsu , Ono Robert J. , Bielawski Christopher W.
Published: June 2013

Novel rod–coil–rod ABA triblock copolymers, poly(3‐hexylthiophene)‐block‐poly(ethylene)‐block‐poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT‐b‐PE‐b‐P3HT) were synthesized by using a combination of a Ru‐catalyzed ring‐opening metathesis polymerization of 1,4‐cyclooctadiene in the presence of a suitable chain transfer agent (CTA) and a Ni‐catalyzed Grignard metathesis polymerization of 5‐chloromagnesio‐2‐bromo‐3‐hexylthiophene followed by hydrogenation. Using this methodology, the molecular weights of the poly(butadiene) (PBD) or the P3HT blocks were controlled by adjusting the initial monomer/CTA or the initial monomer/macroinitiator ratio, respectively. In addition, the triblock structure was confirmed by selective oxidative degradation of the PBD block found in the intermediate P3HT‐b‐PBD‐b‐P3HT copolymer produced in the aforementioned method, followed by analysis of the degradation products. Thermal analysis and atomic force microscopy of P3HT‐b‐PE‐b‐P3HT revealed that the material underwent phase separation in the solid state, a feature which may prove useful for improving charge mobilities within electronic devices. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2013, 51, 3810–3817
Phosphoric acid‐doped imidazolium ionomers with enhanced stability for anhydrous proton‐exchange membrane applications
Authors: Si Zhihong , Gu Fenglou , Guo Jiangna , Yan Feng
Published: June 2013

Phosphoric acid‐doped crosslinked proton‐conducting membranes with high anhydrous proton conductivity, and good chemical stability in phosphoric acid were synthesized and characterized. The synthetic procedure of the acid‐doped composite membranes mainly involves the in situ crosslinking of polymerizable monomer oils (styrene and acrylonitrile) and vinylimidazole, and followed by the sulfonation of pendant imidazole groups with butanesultone, and further doped with phosphoric acid. The resultant phosphoric acid‐doped composite electrolyte membranes are flexible and show high thermal stability and high‐proton conductivity up to the order of 10−2 S cm−1 at 160 °C under anhydrous conditions. The phosphoric acid uptake, swelling degree, and proton conductivity of the composite membranes increase with the vinylimidazole content. The resultant composite membranes also show good oxidative stability in Fenton's reagent (at 70 °C), and quite good chemical stability in phosphoric acid (at 160 °C). The properties of the prepared electrolyte membranes indicate their promising prospects in anhydrous proton‐exchange membrane applications. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2013, 51, 1311–1317
Silicene on hydrogen‐passivated Si(111) and Ge(111) substrates
Authors: Kokott Sebastian , Matthes Lars , Bechstedt Friedhelm
Published: June 2013

By means of first‐principles calculations we predict the stability of silicene as buckled honeycomb lattice on passivated substrates of group‐IV(111)1 × 1 surfaces. The weak van‐der‐Waals interaction between silicene and substrates does not destroy its linear bands forming Dirac cones at the Brillouin zone corners. Only very small fundamental gaps are opened around the Fermi level.

magnified image

Silicene adsorbed on a hydrogen‐passivated Si(111)1 × 1 surface (H: red, Si: blue).

(© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Subject‐level matching for imbalance in cluster randomized trials with a small number of clusters
Authors: Leon Andrew C. , Demirtas Hakan , Li Chunshan , Hedeker Donald
Published: June 2013

In a cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT), the number of randomized units is typically considerably smaller than in trials where the unit of randomization is the patient. If the number of randomized clusters is small, there is a reasonable chance of baseline imbalance between the experimental and control groups. This imbalance threatens the validity of inferences regarding post‐treatment intervention effects unless an appropriate statistical adjustment is used. Here, we consider application of the propensity score adjustment for cluster RCTs. For the purpose of illustration, we apply the propensity adjustment to a cluster RCT that evaluated an intervention to reduce suicidal ideation and depression. This approach to adjusting imbalance had considerable bearing on the interpretation of results. A simulation study demonstrates that the propensity adjustment reduced well over 90% of the bias seen in unadjusted models for the specifications examined. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A study of intense ionospheric scintillation observed during a quiet day in the East African low‐latitude region
Authors: Ngwira Chigomezyo M. , Klenzing Jeff , Olwendo Joseph , D'ujanga Florence M. , Stoneback Russell , Baki Paul
Published: June 2013

Ionospheric plasma density irregularities are a common feature of the equatorial and low‐latitude ionosphere. These irregularities are known to cause fading and phase fluctuation (scintillation) of L‐band radio navigation signals such as those used by Global Navigation Satellite Systems. This study investigates the occurrence of intense ionospheric scintillation in the postsunset period during a geomagnetically quiet day on 8 April 2011. In particular, we use Global Positioning System (GPS) derived observations, i.e., total electron content (TEC) and amplitude scintillation intensity index, S4, to examine the occurrence of intense scintillations at two low‐latitude stations in the East African sector. Deep TEC depletions, in some cases roughly 40 TECU, are observed consistently with the occurrence of intense scintillations. In addition, we compare the GPS‐based observations to the Communication/Navigation Outage Forecasting System (C/NOFS) satellite plasma data. The intense scintillation events also correspond well with plasma depletion structures present on the C/NOFS observations and can be attributed to strong plasma bubble activity. The C/NOFS data also provide evidence of strong upward drift velocities (> 60 m/s) associated with the depletions, which may have contributed to the generation of the strong irregularities.
Linear parameter varying control of a doubly fed induction generator based wind turbine with primary grid frequency support
Authors: Wang Chen , Weiss George
Published: June 2013

This paper proposes a control method for a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) driven by a wind turbine, whose rotor is connected to the power grid via two back‐to‐back pulse‐width modulation power converters. First, we design a rotor current controller for this system using the linear matrix inequality based approach to linear parameter varying systems, which takes into account the nonlinear dynamics of the system. We propose a two‐loop hierarchical control structure. The inner‐loop current controller, which considers the synchronous speed and the generator rotor speed as the components of the parameter vector, achieves tracking of the rotor current reference signals. The outer‐loop electrical torque controller aims for wind energy capture maximization and also grid frequency support, and it generates the reference rotor current. We perform a controller reduction for the inner‐loop linear parameter varying controller, which is not doable by conventional model‐reduction techniques, because the controller is parameter dependent. In simulation, the reduced‐order controller has been tested on a nonlinear fourth‐order DFIG model with a two‐mass model for the drive train. Stability and high performance have been achieved over the entire operating range of the DFIG in the wind turbine. Simulation results have demonstrated the capability of the proposed two‐loop control system to implement also grid frequency support. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Re: Intra‐ and interobserver reproducibility of assessment of Doppler ultrasound findings in adnexal masses. L. Zannoni , L. Savelli , L. Jokubkiene , A. Di Legge , G. Condous , A. C. Testa , P. Sladkevicius and L. Valentin . Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013; 42: 93–101
Authors: Alcazar J. L.
Published: June 2013

Linked Comment: Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013:42:93–101
Re: Fetal cardiac catheterization using a percutaneous transhepatic access technique: preliminary experience in a lamb model. A. Edwards, S. Menahem, A. Veldman, D. Schranz, Y. Chan, I. Nitsos and F. Wong. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013; 42: 58–63
Authors: Mallmann M. R. , Berg C.
Published: June 2013

Linked Comment: Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013:42:58–63
Use of spatiotemporal image correlation at 11–14 weeks' gestation
Authors: Votino C. , Cos T. , Abu‐Rustum R. , Dahman Saidi S. , Gallo V. , Dobrescu O. , Dessy H. , Jani J.
Published: June 2013

Objective

To assess prospectively the use of four‐dimensional (4D) spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC) in the evaluation of the fetal heart at 11–14 weeks' gestation.

Methods

The study involved offline analysis of 4D‐STIC volumes of the fetal heart acquired at 11–14 weeks' gestation in a population at high risk for congenital heart disease (CHD). Regression analysis was used to investigate the effect of gestational age, maternal body mass index, quality of the 4D‐STIC volume, use of a transvaginal vs transabdominal probe and use of color Doppler ultrasonography on the ability to visualize separately different heart structures. The accuracy in diagnosing CHD based on early fetal echocardiography (EFE) using 4D‐STIC vs conventional two‐dimensional (2D) ultrasound was also evaluated.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐nine fetuses with a total of 243 STIC volumes were included in this study. Regression analysis showed that the ability to visualize different heart structures was correlated with the quality of the acquired 4D‐STIC volumes. Independently, the use of a transvaginal approach improved visualization of the four‐chamber view, and the use of Doppler improved visualization of the outflow tracts, aortic arch and interventricular septum. Follow‐up was available in 121 of the 139 fetuses, of which 27 had a confirmed CHD. A diagnosis based on EFE using 4D‐STIC was possible in 130 (93.5%) of the 139 fetuses. Accuracy in diagnosing CHD using 4D‐STIC was 88.7%, and the results of 45% of the cases were fully concordant with those of 2D ultrasound or the final follow‐up diagnosis. EFE using 2D ultrasound was possible in all fetuses, and accuracy in diagnosing CHD was 94.2%. Five of the seven false‐positive or false‐negative cases were minor CHD.

Conclusions

In fetuses at 11–14 weeks' gestation, the heart can be evaluated offline using 4D‐STIC in a large number of cases, and this evaluation is more successful the higher the quality of the acquired volume. 2D ultrasound remains superior to 4D‐STIC at 11–14 weeks, unless volumes of good to high quality can be obtained. Copyright © 2013 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Microdeletions/duplications involving TBX1 gene in fetuses with conotruncal heart defects which are negative for 22q11.2 deletion on fluorescence in‐situ hybridization
Authors: Chen M. , Yang Y.‐S. , Shih J.‐C. , Lin W.‐H. , Lee D.‐J. , Lin Y.‐S. , Chou C.‐H. , Cameron A. D. , Ginsberg N. A. , Chen C.‐A. , Lee M.‐L. , Ma G.‐C.
Published: June 2013

Objectives

Conotruncal heart defects (CTD) are associated with del22q11.2 syndrome, which is often diagnosed by fluorescence in‐situ hybridization (FISH). However, in those negative for del22q11.2 on FISH, the etiology is usually obscure. We aimed to use high‐resolution array comparative genomic hybridization (array CGH) to clarify the underlying genetic causes in these cases.

Methods

In this retrospective study, fetal samples of amniocytes or fibroblasts, taken either for prenatal diagnosis by amniocentesis or for postnatal survey after termination of pregnancy, were obtained from 45 fetuses with CTD and were investigated by cytogenetic analysis including karyotyping and FISH for del22q11.2 syndrome. Eight fetuses with no findings on karyotyping and FISH were investigated further by array CGH, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Sanger sequencing of TBX1.

Results

Array CGH revealed that three of the eight fetuses carried submicroscopic genomic imbalances. Of these, two cases showed similar small microdeletions/duplications in 22q11.2 (one 0.85 kb microdeletion and one 8.51 kb microduplication). The minimal shared region spanned exon 2 of TBX1, a candidate gene responsible for cardiovascular defects in del22q11.2 syndrome. In all eight cases, the array CGH results were confirmed by qPCR, and Sanger sequencing did not detect other molecular pathologies.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate an association between TBX1 variations and fetal CTD. The results also demonstrate the power of array CGH to further scrutinize the critical gene(s) of del22q11.2 syndrome responsible for heart defects. Array CGH apparently has diagnostic sensitivity superior to that of FISH in fetuses with CTD associated with del22q11.2 (and dup22q11.2) syndrome. Copyright © 2013 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Evaluation and linking of effective parameters in particle‐based models and continuum models for mixing‐limited bimolecular reactions
Authors: Zhang Yong , Papelis Charalambos , Sun Pengtao , Yu Zhongbo
Published: June 2013

Particle‐based models and continuum models have been developed to quantify mixing‐limited bimolecular reactions for decades. Effective model parameters control reaction kinetics, but the relationship between the particle‐based model parameter (such as the interaction radius R) and the continuum model parameter (i.e., the effective rate coefficient Kf) remains obscure. This study attempts to evaluate and link R and Kf for the second‐order bimolecular reaction in both the bulk and the sharp‐concentration‐gradient (SCG) systems. First, in the bulk system, the agent‐based method reveals that R remains constant for irreversible reactions and decreases nonlinearly in time for a reversible reaction, while mathematical analysis shows that Kf transitions from an exponential to a power‐law function. Qualitative link between R and Kf can then be built for the irreversible reaction with equal initial reactant concentrations. Second, in the SCG system with a reaction interface, numerical experiments show that when R and Kf decline as t−1/2 (for example, to account for the reactant front expansion), the two models capture the transient power‐law growth of product mass, and their effective parameters have the same functional form. Finally, revisiting of laboratory experiments further shows that the best fit factor in R and Kf is on the same order, and both models can efficiently describe chemical kinetics observed in the SCG system. Effective model parameters used to describe reaction kinetics therefore may be linked directly, where the exact linkage may depend on the chemical and physical properties of the system.
Integrated modeling of flow and residence times at the catchment scale with multiple interacting pathways
Authors: Davies J. , Beven K. , Rodhe A. , Nyberg L. , Bishop K.
Published: June 2013

There is still a need for catchment hydrological and transport models that properly integrate the effects of preferential flows while accounting for differences in velocities and celerities. A modeling methodology is presented here which uses particle tracking methods to simulate both flow and transport in multiple pathways in a single consistent solution. Water fluxes and storages are determined by the volume and density of particles and transport is attained by labeling the particles with information that may be tracked throughout the lifetime of that particle in the catchment. The methodology allows representation of preferential flows through the use of particle velocity distributions, and mixing between pathways can be achieved with pathway transition probabilities. A transferable 3‐D modeling methodology is presented for the first time and applied to a unique step‐shift isotope experiment that was carried out at the 0.63 ha G1 catchment in Gårdsjön, Sweden. This application highlights the importance of combining flow and transport in hydrological representations, and the importance of pathway velocity distributions and interactions in obtaining a satisfactory representation of the observations.
Moduli stabilization and the holographic RG for AdS and dS
Authors: Dong Xi , Horn Bart , Silverstein Eva , Torroba Gonzalo
Published: June 2013

Abstract

We relate moduli stabilization (V
′ = 0) in the bulk of AdS
D
or dS
D
to basic properties of the Wilsonian effective action in the holographic dual theory on dSD−1: the single-trace terms in the action have vanishing beta functions, and higher-trace couplings are determined purely from lower-trace ones. In the de Sitter case, this encodes the maximal symmetry of the bulk spacetime in a quantity which is accessible within an observer patch. Along the way, we clarify the role of counterterms, constraints, and operator redundancy in the Wilsonian holographic RG prescription, reproducing the expected behavior of the trace of the stress-energy tensor in the dual for both AdSD and dSD . We further show that metastability of the gravity-side potential energy corresponds to a nonperturbatively small imaginary contribution to the Wilsonian action of pure de Sitter, a result consistent with the need for additional degrees of freedom in the holographic description of its ultimate decay.
Flower production of Aster tripolium is affected by behavioral differences in livestock species and stocking densities: the role of activity and selectivity
Authors: Nolte Stefanie , Esselink Peter , Bakker Jan P.
Published: June 2013

Semi‐natural grasslands are an important habitat for endangered plant and animal species. In grasslands, low‐intensity livestock grazing is frequently applied as a tool for nature conservation. We aim to investigate how different livestock species in various densities influence the state and flower production of a single plant species by selective defoliation and/or trampling. We hypothesized that (1) moderate stocking densities would cause more damage than low, and that (2) horses would cause more damage than cattle due to their higher activity. The experiment took place in a salt marsh in the Netherlands where grazing treatments with horses and cattle in two stocking densities were installed. Damage to individual Aster tripolium plants and number of flower heads were recorded at the end of the grazing season in late September. We found (1) more damage and fewer flower heads in moderate stocking densities compared to low densities. However, a reduction of flower heads by higher stocking densities was less clear with cattle. No clear difference (2) between livestock species was found, due to opposite trends in moderate and low densities. At low stocking densities, cattle caused more damage by selective defoliation. At moderate densities, horses caused more damage, because of their higher mobility, which led to damage by trampling. We conclude that the response of Aster to grazing is strongly affected by behavioral differences between livestock species. Grazing experiments and management schemes for semi‐natural grasslands should therefore not only consider stocking densities, but also livestock species to reach desired conservation goals.
Clinical Issues‐July 2013
Authors: Denholm Bonnie
Published: June 2013

This Month

Disposal of unused medications

Key words: pharmaceutical waste, medication, disposal, drug take‐back programs.

Debris in sterile pack

Key words: event‐related sterilization, debris, sterile technique, breaks in sterile technique.

Time‐out checklist

Key words: documentation, Universal Protocol, time out, surgical checklist.

Count sheets

Key words: count sheets, documentation, standardized count procedures.
Implementing AORN Recommended Practices for Sterile Technique
Authors: Kennedy Lynne
Published: June 2013

Using sterile technique helps prevent the surgical environment from becoming contaminated and thus can help reduce the incidence of surgical site infection. The AORN “Recommended practices for sterile technique” provides guidance for setting up, maintaining, and monitoring a sterile field. Topics include the use of surgical attire and personal protective equipment; appropriate selection and evaluation of surgical gowns, gloves, and drape products for each procedure; use of sterile technique to don sterile gowns and gloves; appropriate methods for establishing and monitoring a sterile field; and techniques to ensure that items such as surgical instruments that may be contaminated are not used. Breaks in sterile technique should be corrected immediately unless the actions necessary would endanger the patient. If remedial actions must be delayed, they should be undertaken as soon as possible. Adhering to best practices for sterile technique requires remaining up to date with new approaches and incorporating these into quality initiatives.
Establishing catalytic activity on an artificial (βα)8‐barrel protein designed from identical half‐barrels
Authors: Sperl Josef M. , Rohweder Bettina , Rajendran Chitra , Sterner Reinhard
Published: June 2013

It has been postulated that the ubiquitous (βα)8‐barrel enzyme fold has evolved by duplication and fusion of an ancestral (βα)4‐half‐barrel. We have previously reconstructed this process in the laboratory by fusing two copies of the C‐terminal half‐barrel HisF‐C of imidazole glycerol phosphate synthase (HisF). The resulting construct HisF‐CC was stepwise stabilized to Sym1 and Sym2, which are extremely robust but catalytically inert proteins. Here, we report on the generation of a circular permutant of Sym2 and the establishment of a sugar isomerization reaction on its scaffold. Our results demonstrate that duplication and mutagenesis of (βα)4‐half‐barrels can readily lead to a stable and catalytically active (βα)8‐barrel enzyme.
Use of second‐line therapies for management of massive primary postpartum hemorrhage
Authors: Chan Lai‐Ling , Lo Tsz‐Kin , Lau Wai‐Lam , Lau Samuel , Law Bassanio , Tsang Hin‐Hung , Leung Wing‐Cheong
Published: June 2013

Objective

To determine rates of use and success of second‐line therapies for massive primary postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted among 91 women who gave birth at Kwong Wah Hospital, Hong Kong, between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2011. Inclusion criteria were gestational age of at least 24 weeks and massive PPH (defined as blood loss ≥ 1500 mL within 24 hours after birth). Second‐line therapies assessed were uterine compression sutures, uterine artery embolization, and balloon tamponade after failure of uterine massage and uterotonic agents to stop bleeding.

Results

The rate of massive PPH was 2.65 per 1000 births. Second‐line therapies were used among 42 women with PPH, equivalent to a rate of 1.23 per 1000 births. Only 21.4% of the women who received second‐line therapies required rescue hysterectomy. A rising trend was observed for the use of second‐line therapies, whereas the incidence of rescue hysterectomy and estimated blood loss were found to concomitantly decrease.

Conclusion

Increasing use of second‐line therapies among women with massive PPH was associated with a decreasing trend for rescue hysterectomy. Obstetricians should, therefore, consider all available interventions to stop PPH, including early use of second‐line options.
Dual process theory and the context of choice: Comments on Dhar and Gorlin
Authors: Stanovich Keith E.
Published: June 2013

Dhar and Gorlin show that default‐interventionist dual‐process theory differentially classifies several effects in the consumer choice literature and makes differential predictions across a variety of manipulations. One of the most startling differential classifications in their model is that it drives a wedge between the attraction and enhancement effects, because they arise from System 1 and System 2, respectively. System‐2 bias effects explain why sometimes less complex organisms (nonhumans, human children) can display more normative behavior than human adults. Such a finding does not at all undermine the heuristics and biases research tradition, as is sometimes argued.
Estimating phytolith influx in lake sediments
Authors: Aleman Julie C. , Saint-Jean Audrey , Leys Bérangère , Carcaillet Christopher , Favier Charly , Bremond Laurent
Published: June 2013

So far, no phytolith extraction protocols have been tested for accuracy and repeatability. Here we aim to display a phytolith extraction method combining the strengths of two widely used protocols, supplemented with silica microspheres as exogenous markers for quantifying phytolith concentrations. Phytolith concentrations were estimated for samples from two sedimentary sequences in which numerical age–depth models make it possible to calculate phytolith influxes (phytolith numbers per cm2per yr). Analysis of replicates confirmed the statistical robustness, the repeatability and the very few biases of our extraction technique for small phytoliths, since the relationship between grass silica short cells and microspheres was kept stable. Furthermore, we demonstrated that silica microspheres are robust exogenous markers for estimating phytolith concentrations. The minimum number of items (i.e., phytoliths plus silica microspheres) that must be counted to estimate phytolith concentrations and thus influxes depends on the ratio of phytoliths to microspheres (R) and is minimized when R = 1. Nevertheless, we recommend using ratios R ≤ 1 in order to avoid having the counting process become excessively time-consuming, because microspheres are easier to identify and count than phytoliths.
Cyberbullying and its effects on young adolescents: a community-based survey
Authors: Healy S. , Lynch F.
Published: June 2013

Objectives

To conduct a study looking at the prevalence and nature of Internet and mobile phone use in young people, focusing particularly on cyberbullying and its potential effects on young people's mental health.

Method

Three secondary schools in an area of North Dublin were randomly selected, which included one all boys school, one all girls school and one co-educational school. Written information about the study was given to each school principal and to parents/carers of all first and second year students. First and second year students in each school from whom consent had been received were asked to complete two questionnaires, which included a questionnaire on cyberbullying and a self-report version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). A total of 130 students completed the study.

Results

A total of 24 (18.46%) pupils were cyberbullied. Of these, 13 (65% of those cyberbullied) pupils who were cyberbullied said that it had a negative effect on their mood, and 9 (45% of those cyberbullied) said that cyberbullying had a negative effect on their overall mental health. A statistically significant higher proportion of pupils who were cyberbullied scored in the Abnormal/Borderline range of the SDQ, compared with those who were not cyberbullied.

Conclusion

This is the first study in Ireland, which looks at the potential mental health difficulties associated with cyberbullying. It is hoped that the information from this study will help to increase awareness of the effects of cyberbullying and help look at ways of managing cyberbullying.
Spanish Adaptation of the Structural Empowerment Scale
Authors: Jáimez Román María J. , Bretones Francisco D.
Published: June 2013

The present study’s objective is to create a Spanish adaptation of theConditions of Work Effectiveness Questionnaire II(CWEQ-II) by Laschinger, Finegan, Shamian, and Wilk (2004) in order to measure structural empowerment in an organizational context. To do so, this study was conducted in two distinct phases. In the first, a group of experts carried out a back-translation of the questionnaire and in the second phase, we analyzed the questionnaire’s internal structure (through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis) and external validity. The resulting Spanish version of the questionnaire (CWEQ-S) demonstrated/exhibited good factor structure and good psychometric properties as far as reliability and validity are concerned.
Contextual Variables Associated with Psychosocial Adjustment of Adolescents
Authors: Sbicigo Juliana Burges , Dell’Aglio Débora Dalbosco
Published: June 2013

This study investigated associations of contextual variables of risk (stressful events and exposure to community violence), variables of protection (family environment, connectivity to the school and community perceptions) and demographic variables (gender and age) with indicators of psychosocial adjustment (self-esteem, involvement in illegal activities and alcohol use in past month) among adolescents. The participants were 685 students (61.5% girls) aged between 12 and 18 years (M= 15.10,SD= 1.52) of public schools in southern Brazil. They answered a questionnaire with 77 questions and an inventory for assessment of family relationships. Logistic regression analyses indicated that the negative perception of family environment, poor connectivity to the school and exposure to community violence were associated with low self-esteem. Involvement in illegal activities was associated with low connectivity to school, stressful events, exposure to community violence and male sex. Finally, alcohol use/month was associated with negative perception of the community, community violence, stressful events, and particularly at the ages of 15–16 years.
Psychoticism and Disruptive Behavior can be also Good Predictors of School Achievement
Authors: Flores-Mendoza Carmen , Widaman Keith , Mansur-Alves Marcela , Bacelar Tatiane Dias , Saldanha Renata
Published: June 2013

The relations of Gf(Standard Progressive Matrices Raven), Gc(verbal scale of Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Third Version), personality dimensions (Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Junior Version), and disruptive behavior (TDAH scale) with school achievement (measured by TDE test and PISA test) were investigated. Two samples of students (totalN= 534) representing a broad range of socioeconomic status (SES) participated in this study. Path models were conducted. The results demonstrated that (1) in both samples no sex differences related to school achievement were found; (2) in the first sample, after controlling for age and SES differences, Gfand psychoticism predicted (.38 and −.13, respectively) school achievement (measured by TDE test); (3) in the second sample, after controlling for SES differences to which additional measures were administered, Gfand Gcpositively predicted (.22 and .40, respectively) school achievement (measured by PISA test). In addition, psychoticism and disruptive behavior also predicted school performance (−.14 and −.28, respectively). Some theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Temperament and Behavior Problems in Toddlers Born Preterm and Very Low Birth Weight
Authors: Klein Vivian Caroline , Rocha Luciana Cosentino , Martinez Francisco Eulógio , Putnam Samuel P. , Linhares Maria Beatriz Martins
Published: June 2013

The purpose of the present study was to examine the temperament and behavior problems of 32 toddlers born preterm and very low birth weight and 25 toddlers born full-term without medical problems. Mothers completed the Early Childhood Behavior Questionnaire and the Child Behavior Checklist-1.5–5 for assessing toddler`s temperament and behavior problems, respectively. The results showed that, regarding temperament, toddlers born preterm exhibited higher scores on the temperament dimensions Motor Activation, Perceptual Sensitivity, and High Intensity Pleasure, and lower scores on the temperament dimension Cuddliness than toddlers born full-term. In regard to behavior problems, toddlers born preterm showed higher attention problems scores than the comparison group. These findings indicated that children born preterm presented developmental vulnerabilities in temperament dimensions related to behavior problems at toddlerhood. Early intervention programs for preventing psychological problems in at-risk children, especially those born preterm, could focus on children’s temperament dispositions.
Learning of Facial Responses to Faces Associated with Positive or Negative Emotional Expressions
Authors: Aguado Luis , Román Francisco J. , Rodríguez Sonia , Diéguez-Risco Teresa , Romero-Ferreiro Verónica , Fernández-Cahill María
Published: June 2013

The possibility that facial expressions of emotion change the affective valence of faces through associative learning was explored using facial electromyography (EMG). In Experiment 1, EMG activity was registered while the participants (N = 57) viewed sequences of neutral faces (Stimulus 1 or S1) changing to either a happy or an angry expression (Stimulus 2 or S2). As a consequence of learning, participants who showed patterning of facial responses in the presence of angry and happy faces, that is, higher Corrugator Supercilii (CS) activity in the presence of angry faces and higher Zygomaticus Major (ZM) activity in the presence of happy faces, showed also a similar pattern when viewing the corresponding S1 faces. Explicit evaluations made by an independent sample of participants (Experiment 2) showed that evaluation of S1 faces was changed according to the emotional expression with which they had been associated. These results are consistent with an interpretation of rapid facial reactions to faces as affective responses that reflect the valence of the stimulus and that are sensitive to learned changes in the affective meaning of faces.
Measurement Invariance Study of the Training Satisfaction Questionnaire (TSQ)
Authors: Sanduvete-Chaves Susana , Holgado-Tello F. Pablo , Chacón-Moscoso Salvador , Barbero-García M. Isabel
Published: June 2013

This article presents an empirical measurement invariance study in the substantive area of satisfaction evaluation in training programs. Specifically, it (I) provides an empirical solution to the lack of explicit measurement models of satisfaction scales, offering a way of analyzing and operationalizing the substantive theoretical dimensions; (II) outlines and discusses the analytical consequences of considering the effects of categorizing supposedly continuous variables, which are not usually taken into account; (III) presents empirical results from a measurement invariance study based on 5,272 participants’ responses to a training satisfaction questionnaire in three different organizations and in two different training methods, taking into account the factor structure of the measured construct and the ordinal nature of the recorded data; and (IV) describes the substantive implications in the area of training satisfaction evaluation, such as the usefulness of the training satisfaction questionnaire to measure satisfaction in different organizations and different training methods. It also discusses further research based on these findings.
Working Memory as Separable Subsystems: a Study with Portuguese Primary School Children
Authors: Campos Isabel S. , Almeida Leandro S. , Ferreira Aristides I. , Martinez Luis F.
Published: June 2013

Although much research has been done to study the working memory structure in children in their first school years, the relation of cognitive constructs involved in this process remains uncertain. In particular, it is unclear whether working memory is a domain general construct that coordinates separate codes of verbal and visuospatial storage or whether it is a domain-specific construct with distinct resources of verbal and visuospatial information. This paper investigates the structure of working memory, by using the Working Memory Test Battery for Children (WMTB-C) and by doing confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) on a sample of Portuguese children (n= 103) between 8 and 9 years of age. The results of the confirmatory factor analyses that provide the best fit of the data correspond to the model that includes Central Executive and Visuospatial Sketchpad in the same factor, co-varying with a Phonological Loop factor. Moreover, the traditional working memory tripartite structure – based on the Baddeley and Hitch Model – revealed good fit to the data.
Evidenzbasierte Therapie des Hämorrhoidalleidens
Authors: Grandel Markus , Hetzer Franc H.
Published: June 2013

Hämorrhoiden gehören zu den häufigsten gutartigen Erkrankungen des unteren Gastrointestinaltraktes. Ihr häufigstes und zugleich frühestes Symptom sind schmerzlose Blutungen in Zusammenhang mit der Defäkation. Zur Behandlung steht dem Arzt ein breites Spektrum an konservativen und operativen Möglichkeiten zur Verfügung. Ziel der Arbeit ist es unter Berücksichtigung der aktuellen Erkenntnisse und der eigenen Erfahrung dem Leser eine Entscheidungshilfe zur stadiengerechten und befundorientierten Therapie der Erkrankung zu geben.