bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incorporating frailty in a multi-state model: application to disease natural history modelling of adenoma-carcinoma in the large bowel
Authors: Yen Amy MF , Chen Tony HH , Duffy Stephen W , Chen Chih-Dao
Published: May 2010

Homogeneous multi-state models of disease progression have been widely used for designing and evaluating cancer screening programs. However, in screening for premalignant conditions of the cervix or large bowel, it is unlikely that all premalignant lesions have the same underlying propensity for progression. Incorporating frailty into multi-state models raises practical difficulties as it precludes the derivation of finite transition probabilities by matrix solution of the Kolmogorov equations. We address this problem by formulating a heterogeneous process as a series of homogeneous processes linked by transitions which are subject to heterogeneity (frailty). Continuous frailty and discrete mover—stayer models were developed. We applied these to the example of progression of adenoma to colorectal cancer in a three-state model and to a five-state model including consideration of adenoma size. Results were compared with those of purely homogeneous models in a previous study in terms of cumulative risk of malignant transformation from adenoma to invasive colorectal cancer.
Production Options at Prime Safety Limited
Authors: Ali Chatha Kamran , Ayaz Muhammad
Published: May 2010

Prime Safety Limited (PSL) is a manufacturer of corporate and industrial clothing, catering to mostly European customers. A majority of its customers had order sizes below 500 pieces. To improve the flexibility and operational efficiency of its production process, PSL had plans to implement modular (also known as cellular) manufacturing in the sewing department. The organization experimented by designing a cell to assess the potential improvements and obstacles in implementing the modular concept. This case provides an opportunity to learn the changes in operations and to evaluate whether the conversion to modular manufacturing is appropriate for PSL.
Electrical Maintenance of IIT Bombay Hostels
Authors: Choudhari Sanjay , Gajjar Hasmukh
Published: May 2010

The Electrical Maintenance Department (EMD) of the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) is responsible for the electrical maintenance of all hostels on campus. At present, EMD activity is outsourced to Chintamani Electrical on an annual contract. The latter puts up its resources to operate EMD. The EMD supervisor Vijay Bhogale is concerned about the productivity of the electricians because his boss, the owner of Chintamani Electrical, has pushed him several times to improve it.

This case on electrical maintenance of IIT Bombay hostels explains the functioning of EMD along with relevant data to apply operations management techniques such as simulation and capacity analysis. The first step for using these techniques is to understand the situation by mapping its processes; hence, the initial part of the case throws light on this. The latter part of the case emphasizes relevant and precise data collection to apply the appropriate operations management technique. This case creates a stimulating environment for class discussion on key data, the underlying notion in the application of simulation and/or queuing model for a given situation.
Evaluation Field Building in South Asia: Reflections, Anecdotes, and Questions
Authors: Hay Katherine
Published: May 2010

This article examines evaluation field building in South Asia and the role of international collaboration in this field building. The article explores aspects of the supply and demand of development evaluation and the political, historical, and systemic factors that bridge or block evaluation use. The article calls for and suggests elements to include in constructing a framework for evaluation field building, including the role of civil society, evaluation leadership, the formation and reformation of evaluation communities of practice and professional associations, formal evaluation curriculum and training, iterative applied approaches to capacity building, and fostering a culture of evaluation quality and use. Although the focus of the article is on development evaluation in South Asia, the questions explored are pertinent to other evaluation sectors and regions. The article flags the absence of literature on the state of evaluation in South Asia, and, given the limited evidence, develops hypothesis and questions for further probing and debate.
Simvastatin treatment in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis receiving interferon beta 1a: a double-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Togha Mansoureh , Karvigh Sanaz Ahmadi , Nabavi Masoud , Moghadam Nahid Beladi , Harirchian Mohammad Hossein , Sahraian Mohammad Ali , Enzevaei Anahita , Nourian Alireza , Ghanaati Hossein , Firouznia Kavous , Jannati Ali , Shekiba Majid
Published: May 2010

Objectives: This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of simvastatin (40 mg/day) as an adjuvant therapy to interferon beta (IFNb 1a, 30 µg once weekly) in relapsing—remitting multiple sclerosis patients, compared with placebo.

Methods: We enrolled 85 patients with relapsing—remitting multiple sclerosis (71% female) who were already receiving IFNb 1a (Avonex), with Expanded Disability Status Scale score of less than 5.0. The patients were assigned (in random and double-blinded fashion) into the two groups of simvastatin and placebo. All patients continued to receive their current IFNb treatment. The outcome measures were total relapse rate, Expanded Disability Status Scale score, and the number of gadolinium-enhanced (Gd+) and new T2 lesions in magnetic resonance imaging after a 1-year follow-up. We used Mann—Whitney and one-way multivariate analysis of variances to analyze the data.

Results: Four patients in the placebo and two in the simvastatin group prematurely withdrew from the study due to experiencing two attacks. The total attack number in the simvastatin group was significantly lower than placebo group (moderate effect size r = 0.29) ( p = 0.01). The final Expanded Disability Status Scale scores were lower in the simvastatin group (1.01 ± 1.40, mean ± SD) than in the placebo group (1.73 ± 1.49, mean ± SD), but this difference was not significant after controlling the baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale score ( p = 0.07). In the simvastatin group, the mean ± SD of gadolinium-enhanced and new T2 lesions were 0.66 ± 1.18 and 3.39 ± 3.55, respectively, (compared with 0.74 ± 1.21 and 3.39 ± 3.55 in the placebo group). Although there was a decreasing trend in lesions on magnetic resonance imaging, this difference was not statistically significant ( p = 0.62). The combination therapy was safe and well tolerated, and no serious adverse effect was noted.

Conclusion: Our study supports the safety and efficacy of simvastatin as an add-on therapy to INFb 1a in patients with relapsing—remitting multiple sclerosis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00668343.

This interventional study provides Class I evidence stating that adding simvastatin 40 mg/day to IFNb 1a 30 µg a week in patients with relapsing—remitting multiple sclerosis may reduce the relapse rate (moderate effect size r = 0.29) ( p = 0.01) compared with treatment with IFNb 1a alone.
balancing the readiness equation in early childhood education reform
Authors: Brown Christopher P.
Published: May 2010

As policy-makers continue to implement early childhood education reforms that frame the field as a mechanism that is to ready children for elementary school success, questions arise as to how the multiple variables in the readiness equation, such as the child, family, and program, are affected by these policies. The instrumental case study presented in this article looks at this dilemma by examining how a collection of prekindergarten stakeholders in the United States aligned their academic performance expectations for students with their district’s standards-based kindergarten through grade 12 education system. Such an analysis highlights the issues that arise for early educators who are asked to define the ready student within a standards-based education environment. Through this case study, the author makes suggestions for early childhood advocates and educators that can assist them in working with policy-makers and administrators to develop a balanced vision of the readiness equation that takes into account not only children’s academic skills and knowledge but also the capacity of the family, the school, and the community to prepare these children for school success.
child development and childcare in Japan
Authors: Anme Tokie , Segal Uma A.
Published: May 2010

With increasing numbers of women joining the workforce, there is a need for quality childcare. This project, conducted in Japan and using a large number of participants, sought to standardize an evaluation scale to measure the development of children. The development of children under six years of age (N = 22,819) who are enrolled in childcare programs was evaluated by childcare professionals. Percentiles were calculated (10th, 50th, and 90th percentile points) for each item (total 192) of six developmental subscales (gross motor, fine motor, social competence, communication, vocabulary, and intelligence development). The results supported the validity of this scale in measuring child development in Japan.
Sampling to Reduce Respondent Burden in Personal Network Studies and Its Effect on Estimates of Structural Measures
Authors: Golinelli Daniela , Ryan Gery , Green Harold D. , Kennedy David P. , Tucker Joan S. , Wenzel Suzanne L.
Published: May 2010

Recently, researchers have been increasingly interested in collecting personal network data. Collecting this type of data is particularly burdensome on the respondents, who need to elicit the names of alters, answer questions about each alter (network composition), and evaluate the strength of possible relationships among the named alters (network structure). In line with the research of McCarty et al., the authors propose reducing respondent burden by randomly sampling a smaller set of alters from those originally elicited. Via simulation, the authors assess the estimation error they incur when measures of the network structure are computed on a random sample of alters and illustrate the trade-offs between reduction in respondent burden (measured with the amount of interview time saved) and total estimation error incurred. Researchers can use the provided trade-offs figure to make an informed decision regarding the number of alters to sample when they need to reduce respondent burden.
Predictors of Health-Related Quality of Life in Asthmatic Children
Authors: Swartz Martha K.
Published: May 2010

For children with asthma, their perceived health-related quality of life (HRQL) is viewed as a valid outcome measure with which to evaluate care and guide clinical interventions. Numerous clinical variables have been associated with HRQL, but few studies have addressed the role of family functioning in relationship to this outcome. The current study extends the findings of an earlier meta-analysis that indicated that family functioning and illness severity were significant predictors of health-related quality of life in children with asthma. Sixty children and 60 parents or guardians participated in this study of school-age asthmatic children who, over the preceding year, received regular care at a pediatric respiratory clinic for their asthma symptoms. Demographic information was obtained from the adults, who also completed standard measures assessing family stress, adaptation, and cohesion. The children were interviewed by the investigator and completed scales to assess HRQL. The major outcome of interest was the child’s HRQL. The child’s level of control over symptoms and the accumulation of family demands, particularly those related to loss, transition, and illness/family care, negatively affected the child’s quality of life. Multiple regression analysis further revealed that level of control and transitions within the family accounted for 23% of the variance of scores measuring HRQL. Family cohesion emerged as a potential mediating factor that may buffer the negative effects of family stress and the lack of control that an asthmatic child may experience in symptom management. An appreciation of the relationships between family stress, cohesion, and HRQL for children with asthma will directly inform clinical practice. Additional family-centered clinical research that fully incorporates HRQL into a theoretical model of health outcomes will continue to refine effective clinical interventions for asthmatic children.
XIAP deficiency: a unique primary immunodeficiency best classified as X-linked familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and not as X-linked lymphoproliferative disease
Authors: Marsh Rebecca A. , Madden Lisa , Kitchen Brenda J. , Mody Rajen , McClimon Brad , Jordan Michael B. , Bleesing Jack J. , Zhang Kejian , Filipovich Alexandra H.
Published: May 2010

X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis (XIAP) deficiency, caused by BIRC4 mutations, is described to cause X-linked lymphoproliferative disease (XLP) phenotypes. However, compared with XLP caused by SLAM-Associated Protein deficiency (SH2D1A mutation), XIAP deficiency was originally observed to be associated with a high incidence of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and a lack of lymphoma, suggesting that classification of XIAP deficiency as a cause of XLP may not be entirely accurate. To further characterize XIAP deficiency, we reviewed our experience with 10 patients from 8 unrelated families with BIRC4 mutations. Nine of 10 patients developed HLH by 8 years of age. Most patients presented in infancy, and recurrent HLH was common. There were no cases of lymphoma. Lymphocyte defects thought to contribute to HLH development in SLAM-Associated Protein deficiency were not observed in XIAP deficiency. We conclude that XIAP deficiency is a unique primary immunodeficiency that is more appropriately classified as X-linked familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis.
Paucity and preferential suppression of transgenes in late replication domains of the D. melanogaster genome
Authors: Babenko Vladimir N , Makunin Igor V , Brusentsova Irina V , Belyaeva Elena S , Maksimov Daniil A , Belyakin Stepan N , Maroy Peter , Vasil'eva Lyubov A , Zhimulev Igor F
Published: May 2010

Background

Eukaryotic genomes are organized in extended domains with distinct features intimately linking genome structure, replication pattern and chromatin state. Recently we identified a set of long late replicating euchromatic regions that are underreplicated in salivary gland polytene chromosomes of D. melanogaster.

Results

Here we demonstrate that these underreplicated regions (URs) have a low density of P-element and piggyBac insertions compared to the genome average or neighboring regions. In contrast, Minos-based transposons show no paucity in URs but have a strong bias to testis-specific genes. We estimated the suppression level in 2,852 stocks carrying a single P-element by analysis of eye color determined by the mini-white marker gene and demonstrate that the proportion of suppressed transgenes in URs is more than three times higher than in the flanking regions or the genomic average. The suppressed transgenes reside in intergenic, genic or promoter regions of the annotated genes. We speculate that the low insertion frequency of P-elemen ts and piggyBac s in URs partially results from suppression of transgenes that potentially could prevent identification of transgenes due to complete suppression of the marker gene. In a similar manner, the proportion of suppressed transgenes is higher in loci replicating late or very late in Kc cells and these loci have a lower density of P-elements and piggyBac insertions. In transgenes with two marker genes suppression of mini-white gene in eye coincides with suppression of yellow gene in bristles.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the late replication domains have a high inactivation potential apparently linked to the silenced or closed chromatin state in these regions, and that such inactivation potential is largely maintained in different tissues.
Association between EGF +61 G/A and glioma risk in a Chinese population
Authors: Wang Shujie , Zhao Yao , Ruan Zhenchao , Chen Hongyan , Fan Weiwei , Chen Juxiang , Wu Qihan , Qian Ji , Zhang Tianbao , Huang Yan , Lu Daru
Published: May 2010

Background

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is critical in cancer process. EGF and EGF receptor (EGFR) interaction plays a pivotal role in cell proliferation, differentiation, and tumorigenesis of epithelial tissues. Variations of the EGF +61G/A (rs4444903) may lead to an alteration in EGF production and/or activity, which can result in individual susceptibility to brain glioma. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential association between EGF +61G/A and brain glioma in a Chinese population.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed single nucleotide polymorphism of EGF +61G/A in 677 patients with glioma and 698 gender- and age-matched controls. Genotyping was performed by polymerase chain reaction-ligation detection reaction (PCR-LDR) method.

Results

The A allele (minor Allele) was 33.0% in cases and 27.3% in controls. The additive model was more powerful to reveal the association in our study than that of recessive and dominant model. Our data showed the genotype G/A and A/A was associated with increased risk for glioma (adjusted OR = 1.48, 95%CI: 1.17-1.87, p = 0.001 for G/A, adjusted OR = 1.81, 95%CI: 1.20-2.72, p = 0.005 for A/A, respectively), and for glioblastoma (adjusted OR = 1.51, 95%CI: 1.06-2.17, p = 0.024 and adjusted OR = 2.35, 95%CI: 1.34-4.15, p = 0.003, respectively). The A allele significantly increased glioma risk (OR = 1.31, 95%CI: 1.11-1.55, p = 0.001). The additive model (G/G vs G/A vs A/A) showed that both G/A and A/A genotype increased glioma risk (adjusted OR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.17-1.66, p = 0.0002).G/A and A/A genotypes or EGF +61 A allele increased risk in both low and high WHO grade glioma. Non-smokers with G/A and A/A genotype showed increased glioma risk compared with G/G genotype (adjusted OR = 1.72, 95%CI: 1.29-2.30, p = 0.0002 and adjusted OR = 1.81, 95%CI: 1.10-2.99, p = 0.020, respectively). This association was not found in ever- or current-smokers.

Conclusions

Our study indicated that G/A and A/A genotypes or EGF +61 A allele were associated with higher glioma risk in Chinese. This is in contrast with previous studies which reported G allele as a risk factor of glioma in Caucasian. The role of EGF +61 A/G polymorphism in glioma susceptibility needs further investigation.
Use of ER/PR/HER2 subtypes in conjunction with the 2007 St Gallen Consensus Statement for early breast cancer
Authors: Bauer Katrina , Parise Carol , Caggiano Vincent
Published: May 2010

Background

The 2007 St Gallen international expert consensus statement describes three risk categories and provides recommendations for treatment of early breast cancer. The set of recommendations on how to best treat primary breast cancer is recognized and used by clinicians worldwide. We now examine the variability of five-year survival of the 2007 St Gallen Risk Classifications utilizing the ER/PR/HER2 subtypes.

Methods

Using the population-based California Cancer Registry, 114,786 incident cases of Stages 1-3 invasive breast cancer diagnosed between 2000 and 2006 were identified. Cases were assigned to Low, Intermediate, or High Risk categories. Five-year-relative survival was computed for the three St Gallen risk categories and for the ER/PR/HER2 subtypes for further differentiation.

Results and Discussion

There were 9,124 (13%) cases classified as Low Risk, 44,234 (65%) cases as Intermediate Risk, and 14,340 (21%) as High Risk. Within the Intermediate Risk group, 33,735 (76%) were node-negative (Intermediate Risk 2) and 10,499 (24%) were node-positive (Intermediate Risk 3). For the High Risk group, 6,149 (43%) had 1 to 3 positive axillary lymph nodes (High Risk 4) and 8,191 (57%) had four or more positive lymph nodes (High Risk 5).

Using five-year relative survival as the principal criterion, we found the following: a) There was very little difference between the Low Risk and Intermediate Risk categories; b) Use of the ER/PR/HER2 subtypes within the Intermediate and High Risk categories separated each into a group with better five-year survival (ER-positive) and a group with worse survival (ER-negative), irrespective of HER2-status; c) The heterogeneity of the High Risk category was most evident when one examined the ER/PR/HER2 subtypes with four or more positive axillary lymph nodes; (d) HER2-positivity did not always translate to worse survival, as noted when one compared the triple positive subtype (ER+/PR+/HER2+) to the triple negative subtype (ER-/PR-/HER2-); and (e) ER-negativity appeared to be a stronger predictor of poor survival than HER2-positivity.

Conclusion

The use of ER/PR/HER2 subtype highlights the marked heterogeneity of the Intermediate and High Risk categories of the 2007 St Gallen statements. The use of ER/PR/HER2 subtypes and correlation with molecular classification of breast cancer is recommended.
High yield expression of an AHL-lactonase from Bacillus sp. B546 in Pichia pastoris and its application to reduce Aeromonas hydrophila mortality in aquaculture
Authors: Chen Ruidong , Zhou Zhigang , Cao Yanan , Bai Yingguo , Yao Bin
Published: May 2010

Background

Aeromonas hydrophila is a serious pathogen and can cause hemorrhagic septicemia in fish. To control this disease, antibiotics and chemicals are widely used which can consequently result in "superbugs" and chemical accumulation in the food chain. Though vaccine against A. hydrophila is available, its use is limited due to multiple serotypes of this pathogen and problems of safety and efficacy. Another problem with vaccination is the ability to apply it to small fish especially in high numbers. In this study, we tried a new way to attenuate the A. hydrophila infection by using a quorum quenching strategy with a recombinant AHL-lactonase expressed in Pichia pastoris.

Results

The AHL-lactonase (AiiAB546) from Bacillus sp. B546 was produced extracellularly in P. pastoris with a yield of 3,558.4 ± 81.3 U/mL in a 3.7-L fermenter when using 3-oxo-C8-HSL as the substrate. After purification with a HiTrap Q Sepharose column, the recombinant homogenous protein showed a band of 33.6 kDa on SDS-PAGE, higher than the calculated molecular mass (28.14 kDa). Deglycosylation of AiiAB546 with Endo H confirmed the occurrence of N-glycosylation. The purified recombinant AiiAB546 showed optimal activity at pH 8.0 and 20°C, exhibited excellent stability at pH 8.0-12.0 and thermal stability at 70°C, was firstly confirmed to be significantly protease-resistant, and had wide substrate specificity. In application test, when co-injected with A. hydrophila in common carp, recombinant AiiAB546 decreased the mortality rate and delayed the mortality time of fish.

Conclusions

Our results not only indicate the possibility of mass-production of AHL-lactonase at low cost, but also open up a promising foreground of application of AHL-lactonase in fish to control A. hydrophila disease by regulating its virulence. To our knowledge, this is the first report on heterologous expression of AHL-lactonase in P. pastoris and attenuating A. hydrophila virulence by co-injection with AHL-lactonase.
Characterization of a naturally-occurring p27 mutation predisposing to multiple endocrine tumors
Authors: Molatore Sara , Kiermaier Eva , Jung Christian B , Lee Misu , Pulz Elke , Höfler Heinz , Atkinson Michael J , Pellegata Natalia S
Published: May 2010

Background

p27Kip1 (p27) is an important negative regulator of the cell cycle and a putative tumor suppressor. The finding that a spontaneous germline frameshift mutation in Cdkn1b (encoding p27) causes the MENX multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome in the rat provided the first evidence that Cdkn1b is a tumor susceptibility gene for endocrine tumors. Noteworthy, germline p27 mutations were also identified in human patients presenting with endocrine tumors. At present, it is not clear which features of p27 are crucial for this tissue-specific tumor predisposition in both rats and humans. It was shown that the MENX-associated Cdkn1b mutation causes reduced expression of the encoded protein, but the molecular mechanisms are unknown. To better understand the role of p27 in tumor predisposition and to characterize the MENX animal model at the molecular level, a prerequisite for future preclinical studies, we set out to assess the functional properties of the MENX-associated p27 mutant protein (named p27fs177) in vitro and in vivo.

Results

In vitro, p27fs177 retains some properties of the wild-type p27 (p27wt) protein: it localizes to the nucleus; it interacts with cyclin-dependent kinases and, to lower extent, with cyclins. In contrast to p27wt, p27fs177 is highly unstable and rapidly degraded in every phase of the cell-cycle, including quiescence. It is in part degraded by Skp2-dependent proteasomal proteolysis, similarly to p27wt. Photobleaching studies showed reduced motility of p27fs177 in the nucleus compared to p27wt, suggesting that in this compartment p27fs177 is part of a multi-protein complex, likely together with the degradation machinery. Studies of primary rat newborn fibroblasts (RNF) established from normal and MENX-affected littermates confirmed the rapid degradation of p27fs177 in vivo which can be rescued by Bortezomib (proteasome inhibitor drug). Overexpression of the negative regulators microRNA-221/222 plays no role in regulating the amount of p27fs177 in RNFs and rat tissues.

Conclusion

Our findings show that reduced p27 levels, not newly acquired properties, trigger tumor formation in rats, similarly to what has been observed in mice. The molecular characteristics of p27fs177 establish MENX as a useful preclinical model to evaluate compounds that inhibit p27 degradation for their efficacy against endocrine tumors.
Noble Passions: Aristocracy and the Novel
Authors: Quint David
Published: May 2010

In its retrospect on the history of the European novel, Tomasi di Lampedusa's Il Gattopardo identifies the figure of the aristocratic male libertine as a particular novelistic object of erotic attraction and repulsion. The nobleman's sexual dominance and whip-wielding brutality is a measure of the social dominance of his class, but the turning of his own power against himself in self-flagellation likewise indicates how the aristocracy, in the historical long run, may destroy itself from within. Taking its cue from Lampedusa and beginning with Don Quixote, this essay looks at social fantasies that the novel, a genre associated with the ascendancy of the bourgeoisie and its values, weaves around the eroticized figure of the aristocrat. It documents, in Madame Bovary, the gradual replacement of the nobleman-rake in Emma Bovary's fantasies and love-affairs with substitutes produced by a money-ridden bourgeois society. It shows, in À la recherche du temps perdu, how the Baron du Charlus's masochistic desires are thwarted by working classes too sentimental about their social superiors to imitate the model of the Russian revolution: aristocracy will endure in France. In the visions of both Flaubert and Proust, the sexual allure of the declining aristocracy is tied to a sense of the aesthetic itself and to the question of what of aesthetic value can survive in modern mass culture and in the novel, which is that culture's dominant literary form.
On Portraits, Painters, and Women: Balzac'sLa Maison Du Chat-Qui-Peloteand James's “Glasses”
Authors: Ginsburg Michal Peled
Published: May 2010

This essay explores the function of the portrait in two texts, Balzac's La Maison du chat-qui-pelote and James's “Glasses.” I argue that in both texts the portrait plays a crucial role and that taking the portrait into account allows us to see differently the social dramas these works depict. In both texts the portrait raises the issue of the relation between identity and representation. Since in both stories the portrait is that of a woman and the painter is a man, they also deal with the way the power to represent (and thus determine or construct identity) relates to gender difference. As portrait stories that demonstrate the social function and power of the portrait as representation and show the painters' artistic production to be inseparable from their interests and desires, these texts also show the ways in which, and the conditions under which, the power to represent is gained and kept (or not).
“Noseological” Parody, Gender Discourse, and Yugoslav Feminisms: Following Gogol′'s “Nose” To Ugrešić's “Hot Dog on a Warm Bun”
Authors: Lydic Lauren
Published: May 2010

Dubravka Ugrešić's 1983 short story “Hrenovka u vrućem pecivu” (“Hot Dog on a Warm Bun”) self-consciously parodies N.V. Gogol′'s 1836 “Nos” (“The Nose”). Building on the tradition of “noseology,” a literary sub-genre in 1820s and 1830s Russia, Ugrešić parodies the highly symbolic interpretations of “The Nose” that dominated both Formalist and psychoanalytic literary criticism in early-twentieth-century Russia. Copying and revising Freudian interpretations of “The Nose,” wherein the nose symbolizes the phallus, Ugrešić substitutes Nada Matić—the female plastic surgeon who finds Mato Kovalić's penis on her hot dog bun—for Gogol′'s Ivan Iakovlevich—the barber who discovers Kovalev's nose in his bread. Through the postmodern misadventures of Matić's “hot dog,” Ugrešić humorously reproduces and undermines the Lacanian assertion that the penis is merely the image of the phallus. As Ugrešić dismantles the phallus's imaginary “veils,” she also unmasks persistant gender inequality and a virulent socio-political backlash during the immediate post-Tito years. Ugrešić embeds in her psychoanalytic parody an incisive reading of gender discourse and local feminisms in 1980s Yugoslavia.
Phosphoramidite-rhodium complexes as catalysts for the asymmetric [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition of alkenyl isocyanates and alkynes
Authors: Friedman Rebecca Keller , Oberg Kevin M. , Dalton Derek M. , Rovis Tomislav
Published: May 2010

The discovery and development of the asymmetric rhodium-catalyzed [2 + 2 + 2] cycloaddition of alkenyl isocyanates and exogenous alkynes to form indolizinone and quinolizinone scaffolds is described. This methodology has been expanded to include substituted alkenes and dienes, a variety of sterically and electronically diverse alkynes, and carbodiimides in place of the isocyanate. Through X-ray analysis of Rh(cod)/phosphoramidite complexes additives that modify the enantio-determining step, and other experimental data, a mechanism has been proposed that explains lactam, vinylogous amide, and pyridone products and the factors governing their formation. Finally, we have applied this methodology to the synthesis of (+)-lasubine II and (–)-209D.
Evaluation of the Stress-Energy Methodology to Predict Transmitted Shock through Expanded Foam Cushions
Authors: Singh J. , Ignatova L. , Olsen E. , Singh P.
Published: May 2010

Mechanical stresses experienced by packages in the distribution environment include shock and vibration amongst several others. The destructive effects of these hazards can typically be restricted by using cushioning materials to help protect fragile goods during distribution. ASTM D1596 is the conventional standard used to determine shock absorbing performance of a cushioning material for a given combination of static loading, thickness, and drop height. This industry-accepted standard, however, requires significant amounts of transmitted shock data and can be expensive with respect to costs associated with testing and materials amongst others. Alternate stress-energy-based methodologies, developed in the past decade, recommending a considerable reduction in the number of drop tests while providing the ability to predict transmitted shock for any drop height, static loading as well as cushion thickness, are evaluated in this study for their stated accuracy. Based upon an in-depth evaluation of dynamic cushion curves for closed cell moldable foams generated using ASTM D1596, this research evaluates the accuracy of the proposed methodology in relation to the prediction of transmitted shock. Results show that the stress-energy methods while saving time in predicting transmitted shock, produce higher degrees of error than the ±5 % previously stated. In addition, they cannot predict behavior of cushions, and transmitted shock at high drop heights and static loadings with thin cushions, where only the measured values are accurate.
Multispecies Coastal Shelf Recovery Plan: A Collaborative, Ecosystem-Based Approach
Authors: Ames Ted
Published: May 2010

This article explains the integration of an ecosystem into a collaborative management plan to restore New England's depleted multispecies groundfish stocks and decimated coastal fishery. Applying lessons learned from Maine's successful fishery for lobsters Homarus americanus, the Downeast Groundfish Initiative (an eclectic group of fishermen, scientists, and concerned individuals) created a new groundfish management approach designed to nest seamlessly within existing federal and state management systems and be compatible with a total allowable catch (TAC) approach, though it does not require TAC as the primary management tool. The plan resolves fine-scale issues affecting the fishery's biological productivity and addresses the economic, social, and cultural factors confronting fishing communities. The inadequacy of systemwide assessments in detecting local changes in marine ecosystems led to the creation of smaller, contiguous coastal shelf management units each of which encompasses the subpopulation of a key species such as Atlantic cod Gadus morhua. Each unit would have an inshore core layer encompassing the species' spawning grounds and nursery habitats while providing a limited, small-scale fishery for local fishermen using selective, habitat-friendly gear. A buffer layer outside the core area that brackets coastal shelf migration routes would also support a fishery using all legal gear types but with constraints, and an outer layer would provide a fishery operating under current federal regulations. The core and buffer areas would be collaboratively managed to enhance local stock recovery by local advisory councils of fishermen functioning under state administration and regional council oversight. The coastal shelf plan synchronizes the needs of coastal ecosystems and fishermen by restoring species diversity and protecting critical habitats while rebuilding commercial stocks. The approach can create robust, sustainable fisheries for all user groups, resolve equity issues among fishermen, and revitalize the economies of fishing communities of all sizes.
Methylation profiles of endometrioid and serous endometrial cancers
Authors: Seeber Laura M S , Zweemer Ronald P , Marchionni Luigi , Massuger Leon F A G , Smit Vincent T H B M , van Baal W Marchien , Verheijen René H M , van Diest Paul J
Published: May 2010

Promoter methylation is a gene- and cancer type-specific epigenetic event that plays an important role in tumour development. As endometrioid (endometrioid endometrial carcinoma, EEC) and serous endometrial cancers (uterine papillary serous carcinoma, UPSC) exhibit different clinical, histological and molecular genetic characteristics, we hypothesized that these differences may be reflected in epigenetic phenomena as well. Identification of a panel of methylation biomarkers could be helpful in a correct histological classification of these two subtypes, which solely on the basis of morphology is not always easy. Methylation-specific multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification was used to assess the extent of promoter methylation of different tumour suppressor genes in EEC and UPSC. Methylation results were correlated with histology and survival. The median cumulative methylation index of all genes was significantly higher in EEC (124) than in UPSC (93) (P<0.001). Promoter methylation of CDH13 and MLH1 was more frequently present in EEC, while CDKN2B and TP73 were more frequently methylated in UPSC. Almost 90% of EEC and 70% of UPSC could be predicted by CDH13 and TP73. In EEC, methylation of MLH1 was associated with a shorter disease-free survival (DFS; P<0.0001) and overall survival (OS; P=0.005). In a multivariate model, MLH1 methylation emerged as an additional prognostic factor to stage for DFS (P=0.002). In conclusion, promoter methylation is more common in EEC than UPSC. A panel of methylation biomarkers could be useful to distinguish between the two histological subtypes of endometrial cancer. Furthermore, methylation of MLH1 may have prognostic value in EEC.
Experimental studies and modeling on concentration polarization in forward osmosis
Authors: Qin Jian-Jun , Chen Sijie , Oo Maung Htun , Kekre Kiran A , Cornelissen Emile R. , Ruiken Chris J.
Published: May 2010

Concentration polarization (CP) is an important issue in forward osmosis (FO) processes and it is believed that the coupled effect of dilutive internal CP (DICP) and concentrative external CP (CECP) limits FO flux. The objective of this study was to distinguish individual contribution of different types of DICP and CECP via modeling and to validate it by pilot studies. The influence of DICP/CECP on FO flux has been investigated in this study. The CP model presented in this work was derived from a previous study and evaluated by bench-scale FO experiments. Experiments were conducted with drinking water as the feed and NaCl/MgSO4 as draw solutions at different concentrations and velocities. Modeling results indicated that DICP contributed to a flux reduction by 99.9% for 0.5 M NaCl as a draw solution although the flow pattern of both feed and draw solutions was turbulent. DICP could be improved via selection of the draw solution. The modeling results were well fit with the experimental data. It was concluded that the model could be used for selection of the draw solution and prediction of water flux under similar situation. A draw solution with greater diffusion coefficient or a thinner substrate of an asymmetric FO membrane resulted in a higher flux.
Effects of earthworms on surface clogging characteristics of intermittent sand filters
Authors: Wang Dong-bo , Zhang Zi-yun , Li Xiao-ming , Zheng Wei , Ding Yan , Yang Bo , Yang Qi , Zeng Tian-jing , Cao Jian-bin , Yue Xiu , Shen Ting-ting , Zeng Guang-ming , Deng Jiu-hua , He Xun
Published: May 2010

Intermittent sand filters (ISFs) are effective and economical in treating wastewater, but they are easy to clog up. To explore a feasible and simple method to alleviate clogging, two pilot-scale ISFs were constructed, one of which contained earthworms and the other did not. During the operation, the effects of earthworms on the hydraulic behaviour of ISFs were investigated. The results showed that both ISFs exhibited good performance in wastewater treatment. However, they showed different hydraulic characteristics although operated at the same organic loading rate (approximately 300 g m−2 d−1). The ISF without earthworms clogged only after 53 d operation, and was partially recovered after 7 d resting, but after that, clogging occurred again, and more rapidly than the initial clogging event (40 d). However, water on the medium surface of the ISF with earthworms was not observed during the whole experiments. In addition, 11–13% of effective porosity and 0.015–0.026 cm s−1 of infiltration rate were measured in the upper 20 cm of the ISF at the end of the experiments. The facts demonstrated that earthworms played a positive role in alleviating clogging and earthworms fed filter could alleviate surface clogging effectively.
Distributed modelling of urban runoff using a meta-channel concept
Authors: Kim H. , Pak G. , Jun H. , Kim S. , Yoon J.
Published: May 2010

Hydraulic flood routing is advantageous for computational accuracy; however, it requires individual calculations of an extensive pipe network in the case of a two-dimensional analysis. In this study, a method for considering the characteristics of a two-dimensional pipe network has been developed using the meta-channel concept to simplify the detailed calculations involved in the estimation of runoff from urban catchments. In essence, the meta-channel concept turns a two-dimensional pipe network into a one-dimensional pipe with an effective hydraulic geometry. Once such geometry has been identified, the flood routing can then be performed for an urban drainage system. A nonlinear diffusion wave equation, derived from the Saint-Venant equation, was used for flood routing, with an explicit method used for the numerical solution. The celerity and diffusion coefficients, which are two parameters of the diffusion wave equation, were estimated for the Goonja drainage from a two-dimensional pipe network using the meta-channel concept. A comparison of the results of the meta-channel-based pipe routing with the distributed SWMM simulation and observed data, showed close similarities, and identified the applicability of the meta-channel concept in an urban drainage setting.
Effects of TiO2 nanotube array dimension and annealing temperature on the Acid Red 4 degradation in aqueous solution by photocatalytic process
Authors: Ku Young , Fan Zhan-Rong , Chou Yiang-Chen , Wang Wen-Yu
Published: May 2010

Degradation of Acid Red 4 (AR4) by photocatalytic processes with TiO2 nanotube arrays (TNTs) of various dimensions was carried out in this study. TNTs was fabricated by the anodization of titanium foil in electrolyte containing fluoride. The dimension and the induced photocurrent of TNTs were determined by a field-emission scanning electron microscopy and a potentialstat/galvanostat, respectively. The well-defined and highly-ordered TNTs were formed at the anodization voltage ranging from 10 to 40 V in water/glycerol solution (20:80 wt.%) containing 0.5 wt.% NH4F. TNTs annealed at 600°C was found to induce the highest photocurrent and to exhibit the preeminent performance of AR4 degradation. The apparent first-ordered reaction rate constant for AR4 degradation was roughly linearly dependent on the induced photocurrent of TNTs, despite the dimension of nanotubes. The depths of incident UV light penetration through the nanotubes and of AR4 diffusion inside nanotubes restricted the degradation of AR4.
Three-dimensional excitation emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy and gel-permeating chromatography to characterize extracellular polymeric substances in aerobic granulation
Authors: Xu Huacheng , He Pinjing , Wang Guanzhao , Shao Liming
Published: May 2010

Three-dimensional excitation emission matrix (EEM) fluorescence spectroscopy and gel-permeating chromatography (GPC) were employed to characterize the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in aerobic granulation. EPS matrix in this study was stratified into four fractions: (1) supernatant, (2) slime, (3) loosely bound EPS (LB-EPS), and (4) tightly bound EPS (TB-EPS). The results showed that the dissolved organic carbon was mainly distributed in TB-EPS fraction, and increased with increasing the operating time. The supernatant, slime, and LB-EPS fractions exhibited four fluorescence peaks, an autochthonous signature, unimodal MW distribution and lower molecular weight (MW) (3 < log [MW]<5), whereas the TB-EPS fraction only had two peaks, an allochthonous signature, multiple peaks and higher MW (5 < log [MW]<7). It was deemed that the formation of aerobic granules was correlated with the accumulation of proteins in the TB-EPS fraction. EEM spectroscopy and GPC profiles could be used as appropriate and effective methods to characterize the EPS in aerobic granulation from a micro-view level.
Polyaniline thin films in sensors for detection of toxic welding vapors
Authors: Radojkovic Bojana , Hribsek Marija , Ristic Slavica,S.
Published: May 2010

In this paper the possibilities of applying sensors based on filters with surface acoustic waves (SAW) for the detection of harmful products in welding processes are analyzed. This review discusses the sensing mechanism and configurations of the sensors. The principles of SAW sensors are considered with special emphasis on the application of conducting polyaniline nanocomposites as sensitive thin layers in sensors for the detection of CO, NO2, and COCl2. The literature suggests the use of In2O3 as a dopant for CO and NO2 detection sensors, and ethylenediamine and phenylenediamine in COCl2 sensors. The paper presents original results of modeling of sensors that are designed for detection of CO and NO2 for which there are experimental data in the literature. The results obtained based on this model are in excellent agreement with results from the literature, which shows the validity of modeling. Based on the developed modeling methods, calculations were done for sensors for the detection of these gases in which the structure was the surface of quartz. From these modeling results it can be concluded that the use of the quartz substrate provides better sensitivity. In addition, the quartz sensors are thermally stable.
Antimicrobial activity of hybrid hydrogels based on poly(vinylpyrrolidone) containing silver
Authors: Jovasevic Jovana , Micic Maja , Suljovrujic Edin , Filipovic Jovanka , Dimitrijevic Suzana , Tomic Simonida
Published: May 2010

In this work new hybrid hydrogels were prepared by radical copolymerization of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, itaconic acid, poly(vinylpyrrolidone) and silver particles. FTIR spectroscopy has confirmed binding of silver particels in hydrogels. Swelling studies performed in in vitro conditions showed dependence on PVP content and temperature. It can be seen that the antimicrobial activity of the Ag/P(HEMA/IA)PVP hybrid hydrogels depends on the PVP moiety and with the increase of PVP content the microbial contamination is more efficiently reduced. The best sensitivity was obtained for the polymers tested for antimicrobial activity against the yeast C. albicans, one of the most commonly encountered human pathogens, causing a wide variety of infections ranging from mucosal infections in generally healthy persons to life-threatening systemic infections in individuals with impaired immunity. A slightly less susceptible to antimicrobial effect of hydrogels was obtained for the Gram-positive bacteria S. aureus, where the reduction of cells was about 70 % after two hours of exposure, for the sample with the highest PVP content. The least susceptible to the antimicrobial activity of hydrogels examined was the Gram-negative bacteria E. coli, where the percent of cell reduction was below 20 %. Bearing in mind the influence of the time of exposure of microbes to the Ag/P(HEMA/IA)/PVP hybrid hydrogels, it was observed that the reduction of the number of cells depends on time, microbial culture and type of hybrid hydrogel sample. Due to their swelling and antimicrobial properties, silver/poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate/itaconic acid)/poly(vinylpyrrolidone) hybrid hydrogles show potential to use in the field of biomedicine, especially for treatment of skin and burns in dermocosmetics.