bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential treatment within sports teams, leader–member (coach–player) exchange quality, team atmosphere, and team performance
Authors: van Breukelen Wim , van der Leeden Rien , Wesselius Wendy , Hoes Madelien
Published: December 2010

Using the leader–member exchange (LMX) theory as a theoretical framework, the present study focused on the occurrence of differential treatment by leaders on social and task‐related issues within teams. It was investigated whether team members' perceptions of the frequency and degree of social and task‐related differential treatment by the leader were associated with their evaluation of team atmosphere and team performance, in addition to the effects of the quality of their own working relationship with the leader (LMX quality). The context of this study consisted of interdependent sports teams. The participants were 605 players belonging to 69 amateur sports teams playing various team sports such as soccer, hockey, and basketball. Social differential treatment was negatively associated with team atmosphere and unrelated to team performance. In addition, it was found that the two forms of task‐related differential treatment included in this study were unrelated to team atmosphere and were differently associated with team performance. The results are discussed with reference to the existing leadership literature. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Noninvasive detection of brainstem and spinal cord axonal degeneration in an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis mouse model
Authors: Kim Joong Hee , Wu Tzy‐Haw , Budde Matthew D. , Lee Jin‐Moo , Song Sheng‐Kwei
Published: December 2010

Degeneration of motor neurons and their associated axons is a hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, but reliable noninvasive lesion detection is lacking. In vivo diffusion tensor imaging was performed to evaluate neurodegeneration in the brainstem and cervical spinal cord of wild‐type and G93A‐SOD1 transgenic mice, an animal model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. A statistically significant reduction in the apparent diffusion coefficient was observed in the motor nuclei VII and XII of G93A‐SOD1 transgenic mice relative to wild‐type mice. No significant difference in diffusion anisotropy was observed in dorsal white or gray matter in cervical and lumbar segments of the spinal cord. In contrast, statistically significant decreases in axial diffusivity (diffusivity parallel to the axis of the spinal cord) and apparent diffusion coefficient were found in the ventrolateral white matter of G93A‐SOD1 mice in both the cervical and lumbar spinal cord. The reduction in axial diffusivity, suggestive of axonal injury, in the white matter of the spinal cord of G93A‐SOD1 mice was verified by immunostaining with nonphosphorylated neurofilament. The present study demonstrates that in vivo diffusion tensor imaging‐derived axial diffusivity may be used to accurately evaluate axonal degeneration in an animal model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk factors for treatment related mortality in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Lund Bendik , Åsberg Ann , Heyman Mats , Kanerva Jukka , Harila‐Saari Arja , Hasle Henrik , Söderhäll Stefan , Jónsson Ólafur Gisli , Lydersen Stian , Schmiegelow Kjeld ,   On behalf of the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (NOPHO)
Published: December 2010

Background

In spite of major improvements in the cure rate of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), 2–4% of patients still die from treatment related complications.

Procedure

We investigated the pattern of treatment related deaths (TRDs) and possible risk factors in the NOPHO ALL‐92 and ALL‐2000 protocols. Fifty‐five TRDs were identified among the 1,645 ALL‐92 patients and 33 among the 1,090 ALL‐2000 patients.

Results

There was no significant difference in the incidence of TRDs between the two protocols (3.4% vs. 3.2%). Five patients died before initiation of therapy (0.2%), and the overall subsequent risk of induction death and death in first complete remission (CR1) was 1.2% and 1.8%, respectively. Infections were the major cause of death comprising 72% of all cases including 9 deaths from Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 11 deaths from fungal infections. Other causes of death included bleeding or thrombosis (eight patients), tumour burden related toxicities (seven patients) and organ toxicity (seven patients). Female gender (hazard ratio (HR): 2.2, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.4–3.4), high white blood cell count (≥200 × 109/L) at diagnosis (HR: 3.5, 95% CI: 1.7–7.1), T‐cell disease (HR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.01–3.7), Down syndrome (HR: 7.3, 95% CI: 3.6–14.9) and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in CR1 (HR: 8.0, 95% CI: 3.3–19.5) were identified as independent risk factors for TRD.

Conclusion

Several TRDs were potentially preventable and future efforts should be directed towards patients at risk. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011;56:551–559. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reaction of bicyclo[2.2.1]hept‐5‐ene‐endo‐2‐ylmethylamine and nitrophenyl glycidyl ethers
Authors: Kasyan Liliya I. , Prid'ma Stanislav A. , Palchikov Vitaliy A. , Karat Leonid D. , Turov Alexandr V. , Isayev Olexandr
Published: December 2010

Reactions of 2‐nitro‐, 4‐nitro‐ and 2,4‐dinitrophenylglycidyl ethers with bicyclo[2.2.1]hept‐5‐ene‐endo‐2‐ylmethylamine in isopropanol have been studied. The mixtures of products were chromatographed on silica gel and eluted with ether or ether/2‐propanol (1:1), the structures of individual products have been confirmed by IR spectra, NMR 1H, 13C spectra, using experiments that involve homonuclear and heteronuclear scalar coupling interactions (COSY, TOCSY, HMQC, HMBC), and mass spectrometry. Amino alcohols as the major products of regioselective aminolysis of epoxides (according to the Krasusky rule) have been obtained. The minor products were the compounds with two hydroxyalkyl fragments at the nitrogen atom. In case of dinitrophenylglycidyl ether, it was the minor product of aryl nucleophilic substitution (SNAr). The abnormal course of aminolysis has been confirmed by the results of quantum‐chemical calculations of activation barries and Free Gibbs energies of the competitive reactions of epoxides (at the B3LYP/6‐311 + G(d,p) level of theory). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and characterization of new copolyacrylates containing porphyrin units as pendant groups and their use as sensors
Authors: Dattilo S. , Mineo P. , Scamporrino E. , Spina E. , Vitalini D.
Published: December 2010

Novel copolyacrylates containing various molar ratios of 5,10,15‐tri[p‐(9‐methoxy‐triethylenoxy)phenyl]‐20‐(p‐acryloxyphenyl)porphyrin units in the chains have been synthesized, and their chemical structure was determined by NMR and MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry. Sensing response of the synthesized copolymers has been tested for trifluoroacetic and hydrochloric acids and nitrogen dioxide analytes. The reported sensing data indicate that porphyrin units are interacting with analytes in a reversible fashion. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Self‐assembly of di‐ and triblock PEG‐pentavaline amphiphiles
Authors: Hwang Elizabeth E. , Wilson‐Hill Taylor R. , Ahn Ji Won , Platt Andrew P. , Rutledge Katherine E. , Goh Sarah L.
Published: December 2010

Nanoparticles formed from amphiphilic block copolymers can be used as drug delivery vehicles for hydrophilic therapeutics. Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)‐peptide copolymers were investigated for their self‐assembling properties and as consequent potential delivery systems. Mono‐ and dihydroxy PEGs were functionalized with a pentavaline sequence bearing Fmoc end groups. The molecular weight of the PEG component was varied to evaluate copolymer size and block number. These di‐ and tri‐block copolymers readily self‐assemble in aqueous solution with critical aggregation concentrations (CACs) of 0.46–16.29 μM. At concentrations above the CAC, copolymer solutions form spherical assemblies. Dynamic light scattering studies indicate these aggregates have a broad size distribution, with average diameters between 33 and 127 nm. The copolymers are comprised β‐conformations that are stable up to 80 °C, as observed by circular dichroism. This peptide secondary structure is retained in solutions up to 50% MeOH as well. The triblock copolymers proved to be the most stable, with copolymers synthesized from 10 kDa PEG having the most stable particles. Loading of carboxyfluorescein at 2–5 mol % shows that these copolymers have the potential to encapsulate hydrophilic drugs for delivery applications. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Block‐brush copolymers via ROMP and sequential double click reaction strategy
Authors: Dag Aydan , Sahin Hatice , Durmaz Hakan , Hizal Gurkan , Tunca Umit
Published: December 2010

We report an efficient way, sequential double click reactions, for the preparation of brush copolymers with AB block‐brush architectures containing polyoxanorbornene (poly (ONB)) backbone and poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) or poly(tert‐butyl acrylate) (PtBA) side chains: poly(ONB‐g‐PMMA)‐b‐poly(ONB‐g‐PCL) and poly(ONB‐g‐PtBA)‐b‐poly(ONB‐g‐PCL). The living ROMP of ONB affords the synthesis of well‐defined poly(ONB‐anthracene)20‐b‐poly (ONB‐azide)5 block copolymer with anthryl and azide pendant groups. Subsequently, well‐defined linear alkyne end‐functionalized PCL (PCL‐alkyne), maleimide end‐functionalized PMMA (PMMA‐MI) and PtBA‐MI were introduced onto the block copolymer via sequential azide‐alkyne and Diels‐Alder click reactions, thus yielding block‐brush copolymers. The molecular weight of block‐brush copolymers was measured via triple detection GPC (TD‐GPC) introducing the experimentally calculated dn/dc values to the software. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Structural determinants of ligand imprinting: A molecular dynamics simulation study of subtilisin in aqueous and apolar solvents
Authors: Lousa Diana , Baptista António M. , Soares Cláudio M.
Published: December 2010

The phenomenon known as “ligand imprinting” or “ligand‐induced enzyme memory” was first reported in 1988, when Russell and Klibanov observed that lyophilizing subtilisin in the presence of competitive inhibitors (that were subsequently removed) could significantly enhance its activity in an apolar solvent. (Russell and Klibanov, J Biol Chem 1988;263:11624‐11626). They further observed that this enhancement did not occur when similar assays were carried out in water. Herein, we shed light on the molecular determinants of ligand imprinting using a molecular dynamics (MD) approach. To simulate the effect of placing an enzyme in the presence of a ligand before its lyophilization, an inhibitor was docked in the active site of subtilisin and 20 ns MD simulations in water were performed. The ligand was then removed and the resulting structure was used for subsequent MD runs using hexane and water as solvents. As a control, the same simulation setup was applied using the structure of subtilisin in the absence of the inhibitor. We observed that the ligand maintains the active site in an open conformation and that this configuration is retained after the removal of the inhibitor, when the simulations are carried out in hexane. In agreement with experimental findings, the structural configuration induced by the ligand is lost when the simulations take place in water. Our analysis of fluctuations indicates that this behavior is a result of the decreased flexibility displayed by enzymes in an apolar solvent, relatively to the aqueous situation.
Conserved core of amyloid fibrils of wild type and A30P mutant α‐synuclein
Authors: Cho Min‐Kyu , Kim Hai‐Young , Fernandez Claudio O. , Becker Stefan , Zweckstetter Markus
Published: December 2010

The major component of neural inclusions that are the pathological hallmark of Parkinson's disease are amyloid fibrils of the protein α‐synuclein (aS). Here we investigated if the disease‐related mutation A30P not only modulates the kinetics of aS aggregation, but also alters the structure of amyloid fibrils. To this end we optimized the method of quenched hydrogen/deuterium exchange coupled to NMR spectroscopy and performed two‐dimensional proton‐detected high‐resolution magic angle spinning experiments. The combined data indicate that the A30P mutation does not cause changes in the number, location and overall arrangement of β‐strands in amyloid fibrils of aS. At the same time, several residues within the fibrillar core retain nano‐second dynamics. We conclude that the increased pathogenicity related to the familial A30P mutation is unlikely to be caused by a mutation‐induced change in the conformation of aS aggregates.
Structures of domains I and IV from YbbR are representative of a widely distributed protein family
Authors: Barb Adam W. , Cort John R. , Seetharaman Jayaraman , Lew Scott , Lee Hsiau‐Wei , Acton Thomas , Xiao Rong , Kennedy Michael A. , Tong Liang , Montelione Gaetano T. , Prestegard James H.
Published: December 2010

YbbR domains are widespread throughout Eubacteria and are expressed as monomeric units, linked in tandem repeats or cotranslated with other domains. Although the precise role of these domains remains undefined, the location of the multiple YbbR domain‐encoding ybbR gene in the Bacillus subtilis glmM operon and its previous identification as a substrate for a surfactin‐type phosphopantetheinyl transferase suggests a role in cell growth, division, and virulence. To further characterize the YbbR domains, structures of two of the four domains (I and IV) from the YbbR‐like protein of Desulfitobacterium hafniense Y51 were solved by solution nuclear magnetic resonance and X‐ray crystallography. The structures show the domains to have nearly identical topologies despite a low amino acid identity (23%). The topology is dominated by β‐strands, roughly following a “figure 8” pattern with some strands coiling around the domain perimeter and others crossing the center. A similar topology is found in the C‐terminal domain of two stress‐responsive bacterial ribosomal proteins, TL5 and L25. Based on these models, a structurally guided amino acid alignment identifies features of the YbbR domains that are not evident from naïve amino acid sequence alignments. A structurally conserved cis‐proline (cis‐Pro) residue was identified in both domains, though the local structure in the immediate vicinities surrounding this residue differed between the two models. The conservation and location of this cis‐Pro, plus anchoring Val residues, suggest this motif may be significant to protein function.
A new approach for structure analysis of two‐dimensional membrane protein crystals using X‐ray powder diffraction data
Authors: Dilanian R. A. , Darmanin C. , Varghese J. N. , Wilkins S. W. , Oka T. , Yagi N. , Quiney H. M. , Nugent K. A.
Published: December 2010

The application of powder diffraction methods to problems in structural biology is generally regarded as intractable because of the large number of unresolved, overlapping X‐ray reflections. Here, we use information about unit cell lattice parameters, space group transformations, and chemical composition as a priori information in a bootstrap process that resolves the ambiguities associated with overlapping reflections. The measured ratios of reflections that can be resolved experimentally are used to refine the position, the shape, and the orientation of low‐resolution molecular structures within the unit cell, in leading to the resolution of the overlapping reflections. The molecular model is then made progressively more sophisticated as additional diffraction information is included in the analysis. We apply our method to the recovery of the structure of the bacteriorhodopsin molecule (bR) to a resolution of 7 Å using experimental data obtained from two‐dimensional purple membrane crystals. The approach can be used to determine the structure factors directly or to provide reliable low‐resolution phase information that can be refined further by the conventional methods of protein crystallography.
Ultrafast excited state dynamics of monomeric bacteriochlorophyll a
Authors: Kosumi Daisuke , Maruta Satoshi , Fujii Ritsuko , Kanemoto Katsuichi , Sugisaki Mitsuru , Hashimoto Hideki
Published: December 2010

Ultrafast excited state dynamics of the photosynthetic pigment bacteriochlorophyll a in solution have been investigated by means of steady‐state and time‐resolved spectroscopic techniques. Photo‐induced absorption spectra were observed upon excitation of bacteriochlorophyll a into its Qy or Qx absorption band. We show an incorporation of the Qx state in the ultrafast excited state dynamics of Bchl a in solution based on a comparison of transient absorption, beaching, and stimulated emission kinetics after excitation to the Qx or Qy band. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Rabi splitting in CuCl microcavity with DBR consisting of PbCl2/NaF multilayers
Authors: Yoshino S. , Oohata G. , Shim Y. , Ishihara H. , Mizoguchi K.
Published: December 2010

We have investigated exciton‐photon coupling phenomena in bulk CuCl microcavities with distributed Bragg reflectors consisting of PbCl2 and NaF multilayers. The CuCl microcavities, which have the cavity‐length of half‐integer multiples of Z3 exciton wavelength, were fabricated by the vacuum deposition in the consistent process. From angle‐resolved reflectance spectra, the cavity polaritons originating from Z3, Z1,2 excitons and cavity photon were clearly obtained in each sample. We assumed the three polariton modes derived from 3×3 phenomenological Hamiltonian with two vacuum Rabi splitting energies. From the analysis, the obtained Rabi splitting energies for λ‐cavity are 110 and 195 meV for Z3 and Z1,2 excitons, respectively. On the other hand, we have determined the complex refractive indices of PbCl2/NaF layers by spectral ellipsometry. Using these optical constants, the reflectance spectrum of the sample was calculated by nonlocal theory with spatial structures of wavefunction of excitons. The spectrum and Rabi splitting energies estimated by the calculations agree well with the experimental results (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Exciton emission in tetrahedral carbon self‐organized and ring‐shaped quantum dots
Authors: Mashchenko V. E. , Puzikov V. M. , Semenov A. V. , Yaminsky I. V.
Published: December 2010

AFM topography, TEM data, spectra of radiative annihilation of excitons in tetrahedral nano carbon quantum dots (QDs) and quantum rings (QRs) were studied in detail. Anti‐Stokes exciton emission (ASEE) spectra in 6.3–4.7 eV energy interval at 4.2–200 K were induced via cascade Urbach tail states transitions under femtosecond laser radiation (λ=266 nm) pumping. Near diamond in composition nano carbon layers (nt‐C) on cleaved KCl and polished Si substrates with high density of self‐organized surface QDs, isolated, aggregated QRs and fractal bulk networks were grown using carbon ion beam of low energy and fluence. Regular networks of QDs 3–20 nm in diameter less than 1 nm in height and up to 3×1011 cm‐2density were obtained. In ASEE spectra fine–structured via 5–6 meV narrow and week 6.0596 eV, 6.0557 eV and 6.0032 eV lines have been resolved at low level of excitation.

The strong, fine‐structured via 3.0–4.5 meV lines and bands above and below the energy of indirect exciton transition in diamond have been found in two types of nt‐C layers as well. The parameter dependences of lines and bands upon the level of laser pumping were studied. We suppose that above mentioned components of ASEE spectra are originated from radiative annihilation of excitons in surface and bulk QDs and ring‐like quantum networks. At strong excitation level fine‐structured with 3.5–4.0 meV energy period new 4.8394 eV and 4.7925 eV exciton lines were induced and dominated in emission spectra. These lines are result of exciton annihilation in bulk quantum confined fractal features. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Factors structuring macroinvertebrate communities in a headwater stream and its springs in the Upper Austrian Limestone Alps
Authors: Pokorny Nella , Fesl Christian , Schagerl Michael , Waringer Johann
Published: December 2010

The Almbach, a headwater stream in the Upper Austrian foothills of the Alps bordered by mountain pastures was studied to gain insight into the benthic macroinvertebrate community and its habitat. Two springs, one of them fenced in to prevent livestock access, and two more sites of the headwater section were investigated. A discriminant analysis (DA) based on hydrochemistry and phytobenthos revealed three functions with 86% of all samples correctly classified to the four sites. The first function clearly separated the two springs with phosphorus and oxygen as the most important discriminating factors. Spring sites and headwater sites were split up by the second function mainly due to nitrate concentration, but no differences could be detected for the two stream sites. With the exception of the fenced spring, indicator taxa could be assigned to all sites by means of an Indicator Species Analysis (ISA). Polyvalent taxa groups such as Gastropoda and Ostracoda were indicators for the unfenced spring site. This is in accordance to observed low abundances of sensitive plecopteran taxa and suggests a negative impact of livestock trampling on the invertebrate community. Redundancy Analysis explained 99% of the macroinvertebrate‐environment relation. The first axis separated springs from stream sites and was correlated with nitrate, pH, water temperature and phytobenthos eveness. Phosphorus was responsible for splitting the unfenced spring and the downstream station from the fenced spring and the upstream location along the second axis. Ephemeropteran taxa likeHabrophlebiasp. were related to elevated pH, increased water temperature and low nitrate concentrations. In accordance to the ISA, nitrate played an important role for tolerant Gastropoda and Ostracoda at the unfenced spring. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ecologically sustainable economic development in aquatic ecosystems: from theory to environmental policy
Authors: Mavromati Georgia , Bithas Kostas
Published: December 2010

Ecologically sustainable economic development (ESED) is considered to be a priority axis for policies designed for the preservation of ecosystems. In this context, the ESED concept has been operationally defined through several distinct approaches. Nevertheless, no consensus has been reached between and among approaches as to an operational interpretation and practical application of ESED. The present paper examines and evaluates the operational appeal of certain ESED approaches within the current policy framework regarding aquatic ecosystems. To this purpose, the paper investigates the relationship between representative approaches to ESED and the current policies for aquatic ecosystems in the European Union and the United States of America. These relatively mature policies offer operational grounds on which the operational dimensions of ESED approaches may be evaluated. Analysis focuses on the crucial question of to what extent the current major policies for aquatic ecosystems reflect the rationale and conditions of the prevailing ESED scientific approaches. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Fabrication of the smallest organic nanocolloids by a top‐down method based on laser ablation
Authors: Sugiyama Teruki , Asahi Tsuyoshi
Published: December 2010

Stable aqueous colloids of 10‐nm sized organic nanoparticles were tailored by laser ablation of microcrystalline quinacridone in water. The nanocolloids were flaky in shape and had the dimension of a width of 13 (±5) nm and a height of 1.4 (±0.5) nm. The formation mechanism is discussed in terms of laser‐induced fragmentation of organic solids and the potential application of aqueous organic nanocolloids free from any additives and chemicals is considered.
Empowering reflective ethical engagement in field settings
Authors: Cohen Perrin
Published: December 2010

Students often face ethical challenges in experiential education. This chapter describes how teachers, supervisors, and administrators can help students circumvent “ethical bypassing” by strengthening practices of reflective ethical engagement and inquiry.
Bringing the outside in: Assessing experiential education
Authors: Qualters Donna M.
Published: December 2010

Assessment is often seen as punitive, difficult, or irrelevant to real learning. But viewed differently, assessment can be a valuable tool to foster growth in experiential learning.
Growing and funding experiential learning programs: A recipe for success
Authors: Cowart Monica R.
Published: December 2010

This chapter describes ways in which institutions can develop thriving experiential learning programs despite challenging economic times. Stage‐specific challenges and cost‐effective solutions are outlined.
Campus stories: Three case studies
Authors: Fleming Nancy P. , Schantz Mark S.
Published: December 2010

Campus implementation of experiential education can seem daunting. This chapter shares three case studies of successful implementation at very different types of institutions.
Campus stories: Three case studies
Authors: Johnson James R. , Kovach Ronald J. , Roberson Patricia N.
Published: December 2010

Campus implementation of experiential education can seem daunting. This chapter shares three case studies of successful implementation at very different types of institutions.
Antiapoptotic efficacy of folic acid and vitamin B12 against arsenic‐induced toxicity
Authors: Majumdar Sangita , Maiti Anasuya , Karmakar Subhra , Sekhar Das Asankur , Mukherjee Sandip , Das Dolan , Mitra Chandan
Published: December 2010

Earlier, we proposed that the ability of folic acid and vitamin B12 to preserve systemic and mitochondrial function after short‐term exposure to arsenic may prevent further progression to more permanent injury and pathological changes leading to cell death. To elucidate its mechanism, the present study examined the antiapoptotic efficacy of folic acid and vitamin B12 against short‐term arsenic exposure‐induced hepatic mitochondria oxidative stress and dysfunction. Sixteen to eighteen weeks old male albino rats weighing 140–150 × g were divided into five groups: Control (A), Arsenic‐treated (B), Arsenic + folic acid (C), Arsenic +vitamin B12 (D), and Arsenic + folic acid + vitamin B12 (E). Data generated indicated that folic acid and vitamin B12 separately or in combination can give significant protection against alterations in oxidative stress and apoptotic marker parameters and downstream changes in mitochondria, namely pro‐oxidative (NO, TBARS, OH−) and antioxidative defense (SOD, CAT, GSH) markers, iNOS protein expression, mitochondrial swelling, cytochrome c oxidase and Ca2+‐ATPase activity, Ca2+ content, caspase‐3 activity. Additionally, results of hepatic cell DNA fragmentation, arsenic load of blood, hepatic tissue and urine, and histological observations, all strongly support that both these supplements have efficacy in preventing apoptotic changes and cellular damage. As the mechanisms of actions of both of these supplements are methylation related, a combined application was more effective. Results further reveal new molecular targets through which folic acid and vitamin B12 separately or in combination work to alleviate one critical component of arsenic‐induced liver injury: mitochondria dysfunction. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2012.
Biochemical and genotoxic effect of triclosan on earthworms (Eisenia fetida) using contact and soil tests
Authors: Lin Dasong , Xie Xiujie , Zhou Qixing , Liu Yao
Published: December 2010

Triclosan (TCS) is a broad‐spectrum bactericide that is used for a variety of antimicrobial functions. TCS is frequently detected in the terrestrial environment due to application of sewage sludge to agricultural land. In the present study, 48‐h paper contact and 28‐day spiked soil tests were conducted to examine the toxic effects of TCS on the antioxidative and genetic indices of earthworms (Eisenia fetida). The activity of antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase, SOD; catalase, CAT) and the content of the lipid peroxidation product (malondialdehyde, MDA) were determined as biomarkers of oxidative stress in E. fetida. Moreover, single cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) was used as a biomarker of genotoxicity. The results showed that triclosan induced a significant increase (P < 0.05) in antioxidative enzyme activities and MDA content. Of all of the biomarkers examined, CAT activity was most sensitive to TCS, and the CAT activity increased significantly (P < 0.05) at bactericidal concentrations of 7.86 ng cm−2 in the contact test and 10 mg kg−1 in the spiked soil test. The comet assay showed that TCS treatments significantly induced (P < 0.05) DNA damage in E. fetida, and that 78.6 ng cm−2 caused significant genotoxic effects in the acute test (48 h). Clear dose‐dependent DNA damage to E. fetida was observed both in contact and spiked soil tests. These results imply that TCS may have potential biochemical and genetic toxicity toward earthworms (E. fetida). A battery of biomarkers covering multiple molecular targets of acute toxicity can be combined to better understand the impacts of TCS on E. fetida. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2012.
Competition between Specialized Candidates
Authors: KRASA STEFAN , POLBORN MATTIAS
Published: December 2010

Opposing candidates for a political office often differ in their professional backgrounds and previous political experience, leading to both real and perceived differences in political capabilities. We analyze a formal model in which candidates with different productivities in two policy areas compete for voters by choosing how much money or effort they would allocate to each area if elected. The model has a unique equilibrium that differs substantially from the standard median voter model. Although candidates compete for the support of a moderate voter type, this cutoff voter differs from the expected median voter. Moreover, no voter type except the cutoff voter is indifferent between the candidates in equilibrium. The model also predicts that candidates respond to changes in the preferences of voters in a very rigid way. From a welfare perspective, candidates are “excessively moderate”: almost certainly, a majority of voters would prefer that the winning candidate focus more on his or her strength.
ASYMPTOTIC INTEGRATION OF SECOND-ORDER NONLINEAR DIFFERENCE EQUATIONS
Authors: EHRNSTRÖM MATS , TISDELL CHRISTOPHER C. , WAHLÉN ERIK
Published: December 2010

In this work we analyse a nonlinear, second-order difference equation on an unbounded interval. We present new conditions under which the problem admits a unique solution that is of a particular linear asymptotic form. The results concern the general behaviour of solutions to the initial-value problem, as well as solutions with a given asymptote. Our methods involve establishing suitable complete metric spaces and an application of Banach's fixed-point theorem. For the solutions found in our two main theorems—fixed initial data and fixed asymptote, respectively—we establish exact convergence rates to solutions of the differential equation related to our difference equation. It turns out that for the asymptotic case there is uniform convergence for both the solution and its derivative, while in the other case the convergence is somewhat weaker. Two different techniques are utilized, and for each one has to employ ad-hoc methods for the unbounded interval. Of particular importance is the exact form of the operators and metric spaces formulated in the earlier sections.
SYMMETRY BREAKING FOR GROUND-STATE SOLUTIONS OF HÉNON SYSTEMS IN A BALL
Authors: HE HAIYANG
Published: December 2010

We consider in this paper the problem
(1)
where Ω is the unit ball in ℝN centred at the origin, 0 ≤ α < pN,β > 0, N ≥ 3. Suppose qϵ → q as ϵ → 0+ and qϵ, q satisfy, respectively,

we investigate the asymptotic estimates of the ground-state solutions (uϵ, vϵ) of (1) as β → + ∞ with p, qϵ fixed. We also show the symmetry-breaking phenomenon with α, β fixed and qϵ → q as ϵ → 0+. In addition, the ground-state solution is non-radial provided that ϵ > 0 is small or β is large enough.
RATIONAL REPRESENTATIONS OF GL2
Authors: MIEMIETZ VANESSA , TURNER WILL
Published: December 2010

Let F be an algebraically closed field of characteristic p. We fashion an infinite dimensional basic algebra ←p(F), with a transparent combinatorial structure, which controls the rational representation theory of GL2(F).
DERIVED EQUIVALENCE CLASSIFICATION OF SYMMETRIC ALGEBRAS OF POLYNOMIAL GROWTH
Authors: HOLM THORSTEN , SKOWROŃSKI ANDRZEJ
Published: December 2010

We complete the derived equivalence classification of all symmetric algebras of polynomial growth, by solving the subtle problem of distinguishing the standard and nonstandard nondomestic symmetric algebras of polynomial growth up to derived equivalence.
Geometric invariants and principal configurations on spacelike surfaces immersed in ℝ3,1
Authors: Bayard Pierre , Sánchez-Bringas Federico
Published: December 2010

We describe the numerical invariants and the curvature ellipse attached to the second fundamental form of a spacelike surface in a four-dimensional Minkowski space. We then study the configuration of the V-principal curvature lines on a spacelike surface when the normal field V is lightlike (the lightcone configuration). We end with some observations on the mean directionally curved lines and on the asymptotic lines on spacelike surfaces.
An audit of rubella IgG antibody status in antenatal women in a NHS Trust over 5 years (2005–2009)
Authors: MATTHEWS L. A. , LAWRANCE L. M. , GRAY D. , GRAY S.
Published: December 2010

Rubella, a vaccine-preventable infection. This study examined the antibody status of 11 987 pregnant women during 2005–2009. Results showed a non-significant decrease in those with antibody levels of <4·0 IU/ml from 29/2312 (1·3%) in 2005 to 21/2447 (0·9%) in 2009 (χ2for linear trend=0·279,P=0·56) but a significant increase in those with levels of <10 IU/ml from 88/2312 (3·8%) in 2005 to 124/2447 (5·1%) in 2009 (χ2for linear trend=10·27,P=0·001). In women born before 1983 (pre-pubertal vaccination) the proportion of first pregnancies with titres <4 IU was 1·1% (21/2002) compared to 3·4% (69/2022) in those born after 1983 (χ2=25·176,P<0·0001) and 2·2% (44/2002) for titres <10 IU compared to 14·0% (282/2022) for those born after 1983 (χ2=171·43,P<0·0001). The potential impact of the increase is difficult to determine, requiring further monitoring. This paper discusses the effect of changing immunization programmes on rubella susceptibility in pregnant women.
Detection rates of congenital heart disease in Guatemala
Authors: Trucco Sara M. , Barnoya Joaquin , Larrazabal Luis Alesandro , Castañeda Aldo , Teitel David F.
Published: December 2010

Objectives

In developing countries, congenital heart disease is often unrecognised, leading to serious morbidity and mortality. Guatemala is one of the few developing countries where expert paediatric cardiac treatment is available and affordable, and therefore early detection could significantly improve outcome. We assessed regional congenital heart disease detection rates in Guatemala, and determined whether they correlated with the regional human development index.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all new cardiac referrals made in 2006 to the Unidad de Cirugia Cardiovascular Pediatrica, the only paediatric cardiac centre in Guatemala. We calculated regional detection rates by comparing the number of congenital heart disease referrals with the expected incidence using the National Ministry of Health birth data. We then compared the regional detection rates with the human development index data published in the United Nations 2006 Development Program Report using Spearman’s rank correlation.

Results

An estimated 3935 infants with cardiac defects were born in Guatemala in 2006, an expected 1380 (35%) of whom had severe forms. Overall, only 533 children (14%) with cardiac defects were referred. Of these, 62% had simple shunt lesions, 13% had cyanotic lesions, and 10% had left-sided obstructive lesions. Only 11.5% of referred patients were neonates. Regional detection rates, ranged 3.2–34%, correlated with the regional human development index (r = 0.75, p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Current detection of congenital heart disease in Guatemala is low and correlates with the regional human development index. Those detected are older and have less severe forms, suggesting a high mortality rate among Guatemalan neonates with complex cardiac defects.
Extended applications of the Amplatzer vascular plug IV in infants
Authors: Adelmann Roland , Windfuhr Alfred , Bennink Gerardus , Emmel Mathias , Sreeram Narayanswami
Published: December 2010

Objective

A variety of devices are available for transcatheter closure of unwanted shunts. We describe our experience with the use of the Amplatzer vascular plug IV in a consecutive series of infants.

Methods

A total of eight consecutive infants – all born preterm at gestational ages ranging from 24 to 35 weeks – undergoing transcatheter closure of unwanted shunts – persistently patent arterial duct in five patients, an aorta to right atrium fistula in one, multiple aortopulmonary collateral vessels in one, and an azygos vein to left atrium connection in one – are described. Their age, from birth, ranged between 3 and 11 months, and weight between 2.6 and 11.3 kilograms. All devices were delivered using percutaneous arterial or venous vascular access via a large lumen (0.038 inch) 4-French delivery catheter.

Results

All lesions could be successfully occluded using one or more devices. Device diameters ranged between 4 and 8 millimetres, and exceeded the minimum diameter of the target vessel by 1 to 2 millimetres. Successful occlusion was confirmed either directly at angiography or on follow-up echocardiography. Of the infants who were mechanically ventilated prior to the procedure, three could be successfully weaned following closure of the shunt. There were no procedure-related complications.

Conclusions

The new vascular plug IV is cheap and efficacious in closing a variety of shunts in young infants, and warrants further extended clinical application.
A workplace feasibility study of the effect of a minimal fruit intervention on fruit intake
Authors: Alinia Sevil , Lassen Anne D , Krogholm Kirstine S , Christensen Tue , Hels Ole H , Tetens Inge
Published: December 2010

Objective

The main purpose of the study was to investigate the feasibility of using workplaces to increase the fruit consumption of participants by increasing fruit availability and accessibility by a minimal fruit programme. Furthermore, it was investigated whether a potential increase in fruit intake would affect vegetable, total energy and nutrient intake.

Design

A 5-month, controlled, workplace study where workplaces were divided into an intervention group (IG) and a control group (CG). At least one piece of free fruit was available per person per day in the IG. Total fruit and dietary intake was assessed, using two 24 h dietary recalls at baseline and at endpoint.

Setting

Eight Danish workplaces were enrolled in the study. Five workplaces were in the IG and three were in the CG.

Subjects

One hundred and twenty-four (IG, n 68; CG, n 56) healthy, mainly normal-weight participants were recruited.

Results

Mean daily fruit intake increased significantly from baseline to endpoint only in the IG by 112(se 35) g. In the IG, mean daily intake of added sugar decreased significantly by 10·7(se 4·4) g, whereas mean daily intake of dietary fibre increased significantly by 3·0(se 1·1) g. Vegetable, total energy and macronutrient intake remained unchanged through the intervention period for both groups.

Conclusions

The present study showed that it is feasible to increase the average fruit intake at workplaces by simply increasing fruit availability and accessibility. Increased fruit intake possibly substituted intake of foods containing added sugar. In this study population the increased fruit intake did not affect total energy intake.
High prevalence of metabolic syndrome in an elderly Croatian population – a multicentre study
Authors: Pašalić Daria , Dodig Slavica , Čorović Naima , Pizent Alica , Jurasović Jasna , Pavlović Mladen
Published: December 2010

Objective

To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in a healthy elderly Croatian population.

Design

Cross-sectional study consisting of a health check including anthropometric measures and food questionnaires as well as analysis of biochemical parameters related to MetS. The diagnostic criteria of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) were used for diagnosis of MetS.

Setting

Four centres in continental (Virovitica and Zagreb) and Adriatic coast (Split and Omiš) regions of Croatia.

Subjects

Free-living elderly persons aged 70–90 years (n320).

Results

Significantly lower MetS prevalence was found among participants from small urban centres compared with those from large urban centres (59·1 %v. 69·6 %;P= 0·051). Participants without MetS consumed wine more frequently (P= 0·05) than those with MetS. Compared with their peers with HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) <1·03 mmol/l, more male participants with HDL-C ≥1·03 mmol/l consumed wine (P= 0·04) or pelagic fish (P= 0·03). The prevalence of participants with TAG ≥1·7 mmol/l was higher in wine non-consumers (P= 0·05) than in wine consumers. Multivariate analysis with age and gender as covariates showed a significant inverse association of wine consumption with total cholesterol (P< 0·001), a positive association with HDL-C (P< 0·001) and a marginally inverse association with TAG (P= 0·06). In the male population, alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyl transferase activities were higher in participants with MetS (P< 0·05).

Conclusions

High MetS prevalence was observed in an elderly Croatian population. Data showed that moderate consumption of wine and/or pelagic fish has a protective role against MetS in the population studied.
Adverbial Morphology: How Dutch and German are Moving Away from English
Authors: Diepeveen Janneke , Van de Velde Freek
Published: December 2010

English marks the distinction between adjectives and adverbs with an adverbial suffix, whereas Dutch and German allow adjectives to be used adverbially without extra morphology. This may give rise to the idea that English, like Latin, is more specific in its classification of various types of modifiers. We propose an alternative analysis: Dutch and German draw a different dividing line, between attributive modifiers (NP-level) on the one hand, and predicative and adverbial modifiers (clause-level) on the other. To this end, they use adjectival inflection instead of derivational morphology. We describe how the adverbial systems in these three West-Germanic languages have developed and try to explain the changes that have occurred.
When Free and Easy Isn't an Option: Intranet 2.0 at the Bar Council of Ireland Law Library
Authors: Duffy John
Published: December 2010

At the BIALL Conference in June 2010 John Duffy presented a paper recounting his experiences of installing a bespoke desktop library interface for all the barristers, with customisation available and utilising Web 2.0 tools.
Electronic Resource Management Systems: Manage Online Library Spend and Increase the Value of the Library
Authors: Kingan Rory
Published: December 2010

This paper, originally presented at the BIALL Conference in June 2010 by Rory Kingan, introduces the concept of Electronic Resource Management systems and how they can help law libraries deliver better value from online services. The goals and functions of these systems are presented, benefits that firms are achieving with them are described and several advanced uses are discussed.
Making the Right Investment – Recruitment and Selection
Authors: Wheatley Suzanne
Published: December 2010

This article is based on the presentation given by Suzanne Wheatley at the BIALL Conference in June 2010 giving advice to prospective interviewers on how to make the best recruitment decisions.
Legal Services Act: What it Means for Legal and Information Professionals
Authors: McKenzie Amanda
Published: December 2010

Amanda McKenzie from Olswangs presented a paper at the BIALL Annual Conference 2010 on the potential impact of the reforms contained in the Legal Services Act 2007.
Personal Budgets and the Workforce Implications for Social Care Providers: Expectations and Early Experiences
Authors: Baxter Kate , Wilberforce Mark , Glendinning Caroline
Published: December 2010

Drawing on two studies in England, this paper explores the workforce-related impacts that social care providers envisage, and have so far experienced, from an increase in the number of people using personal budgets. It presents findings in relation to financial and workforce planning, recruitment and retention, workforce training and service user/provider relations. The discussion considers the implications not only for providers but also care workers, service users and local authorities.
Review Article: Human Rights Based Social Policies – Challenges for China
Authors: Fisher Karen R. , Shang Xiaoyuan , Blaxland Megan
Published: December 2010

This review article discusses findings from current Chinese social policy literature about the dilemmas facing the Chinese government to reform China's residual social policies, from historic, socio-economic and political perspectives. It explores how human rights based policies and transparent management are beginning to be reflected in recent literature as the policy changes emerge from current social and political development in China. China is emerging as a new important international force, both economically and socially. Its social policies are at a turning point as it shifts to a middle developed country and as the world witnesses the emergence of a new welfare state.
Missing Elements of a Child Protection System in China: The Case of LX
Authors: Katz Ilan , Shang Xiaoyuan , Zhang Yahua
Published: December 2010

Many of the systems which had protected vulnerable children in China have broken down, but China has not developed a modern child protection system. We present initial findings from a project which investigates responses to child abuse and the potential for developing a comprehensive protection process. The research found that physical chastisement is commonly practised. Other forms of maltreatment tend to be denied. There are no mechanisms to report abuse and no organisation taking a lead in child protection. Furthermore, there is great reluctance by professionals and the public to identify or report child abuse and neglect.
Some Useful Sources on Chinese Social Policy
Authors: Shang Xiaoyuan , Gleeson Ryan
Published: December 2010

The contributors to this special issue have listed a number of important references in the main articles presented. China's social policy transformation is a burgeoning research area and available literature becomes outdated quickly. The sources in this section identify the most relevant current and past information relating to social policy and human rights in China. Some publications in this section are in Chinese as noted.