bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducing Drinking Water Supply Chemical Contamination: Risks from Underground Storage Tanks
Authors: Enander Richard T. , Hanumara R. Choudary , Kobayashi Hisanori , Gagnon Ronald N. , Park Eugene , Vallot Christopher , Genovesi Richard
Published: May 2012

Drinking water supplies are at risk of contamination from a variety of physical, chemical, and biological sources. Ranked among these threats are hazardous material releases from leaking or improperly managed underground storage tanks located at municipal, commercial, and industrial facilities. To reduce human health and environmental risks associated with the subsurface storage of hazardous materials, government agencies have taken a variety of legislative and regulatory actions—which date back more than 25 years and include the establishment of rigorous equipment/technology/operational requirements and facility‐by‐facility inspection and enforcement programs. Given a history of more than 470,000 underground storage tank releases nationwide, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency continues to report that 7,300 new leaks were found in federal fiscal year 2008, while nearly 103,000 old leaks remain to be cleaned up. In this article, we report on an alternate evidence‐based intervention approach for reducing potential releases from the storage of petroleum products (gasoline, diesel, kerosene, heating/fuel oil, and waste oil) in underground tanks at commercial facilities located in Rhode Island. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether a new regulatory model can be used as a cost‐effective alternative to traditional facility‐by‐facility inspection and enforcement programs for underground storage tanks. We conclude that the alternative model, using an emphasis on technical assistance tools, can produce measurable improvements in compliance performance, is a cost‐effective adjunct to traditional facility‐by‐facility inspection and enforcement programs, and has the potential to allow regulatory agencies to decrease their frequency of inspections among low risk facilities without sacrificing compliance performance or increasing public health risks.
A Quantitative Risk Assessment for Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy in Japan
Authors: Kadohira M. , Stevenson M. A. , Høgåsen H. R. , de Koeijer A.
Published: May 2012

A predictive case‐cohort model was applied to Japanese data to analyze the interaction between challenge and stability factors for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) for the period 1985–2020. BSE risk in cattle was estimated as the expected number of detectable cases per year. The model was comprised of a stochastic spreadsheet calculation model with the following inputs: (1) the origin and quantity of live cattle and meat and bone meal imported into Japan, (2) the age distribution of native cattle, and (3) the estimated annual basic reproduction ratio (R0) for BSE. The estimated probability of having zero detectable cases in Japan in 2015 was 0.90 (95% CI 0.83–0.95). The corresponding value for 2020 was 0.99 (95% CI 0.98–0.99). The model predicted that detectable cases may occur in Japan beyond 2015 because of the assumption that continued transmission was permitted to occur (albeit at a very low level) after the 2001 ban on the importation and domestic use of all processed animal proteins for the production of animal feed and for fertilizer. These results reinforce the need for animal health authorities to monitor the efficacy of control measures so that the future course of the BSE epidemic in Japan can be predicted with greater certainty.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Structural Disadvantage and Crime: White, Black, and Hispanic Comparisons*
Authors: Ulmer Jeffery T. , Harris Casey T. , Steffensmeier Darrell
Published: May 2012

Objectives

The objective of this study is to advance knowledge on racial/ethnic disparities in violence and the structural sources of those disparities. We do so by extending scarce and limited research exploring the relationship between race/ethnic gaps in disadvantage and differences in violent crime across groups.

Methods

Using census place‐level data from California and New York, we construct white, black, and Hispanic “gap” measures that take as a given the existence of disparities across race/ethnic groups in structural disadvantage and crime and subsequently utilize seemingly unrelated regression models to assess the extent to which gaps in disadvantage are predictive of gaps in homicide and index violence.

Results

Our results suggest that (1) there is considerable heterogeneity in the size of white–black, white–Hispanic, and black–Hispanic gaps in structural disadvantage and crime and (2) that race/ethnic disparities in structural disadvantage, particularly poverty and female headship, are positively associated with race/ethnic gaps in homicide and index violence.

Conclusion

In light of recent scholarship on the racial invariance hypothesis and on the relationship between structural inequality and crime, the current study demonstrates that disparities in disadvantage, particularly family structure and poverty, are important in driving racial and ethnic disparities in crime.
Mediajourneys: Looking at People, Looking for People
Authors: Behar Ruth , Brink‐Danan Marcy
Published: May 2012

Ruth Behar's oeuvre consistently deals with the issue of looking as an anthropological concern. This interview explores the way anthropology in general, and Behar in particular, looks at and for people. The conversation explores topics of primary interest to this journal's readers, including the advantages and disadvantages of different representational strategies, the relationships of various media to anthropological subjects and to each other, and issues of pedagogy, authorship, and artistic choices.
Reframing a Visual Ethnography of a Japanese Preschool Classroom
Authors: Hayashi Akiko , Tobin Joseph
Published: May 2012

This article presents a reanalysis of a scene we early filmed and edited in a Japanese preschool classroom. We use a variety of visual and narrative strategies to reframe the video, shifting attention from those we had in earlier editing and analyses decided were peripheral to the action. The article uses this example to address larger questions about who in an ethnographic film are considered to be the key protagonists deemed worthy of representation and of other culture‐bound assumptions in visual storytelling.
Powder Synthesis and Hot‐Pressing of a LiTaO3 Ceramic
Authors: Chen Ching‐Fong , Llobet Anna , Brennecka Geoff L. , Forsyth Robert T. , Guidry Dennis R. , Papin Pallas A. , McCabe Rodney J.
Published: May 2012

The LiTaO3 powders with uniformly sized primary particles have been successfully synthesized using a solid state reaction method. The calcined powders were hot‐pressed at 1250°C to form the densest ceramics yet reported of undoped LiTaO3. Neutron and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis confirmed a random distribution of grain orientations in the hot‐pressed body. Neutron, X‐ray, and EBSD studies all indicated the presence of significant residual stresses in the dense ceramic, likely resulting from the large crystallographic anisotropy in thermal expansion of LiTaO3. In addition, EBSD images revealed several unusual microstructural features, presumably related to exaggerated grain growth.
Ferroelectric Transition of Sr5SmTi3Nb7O30 Tungsten Bronze Ceramics Investigated Using Differential Scanning Calorimetry and Raman Scattering
Authors: Zhu Xiao Li , Chen Xiang Ming
Published: May 2012

Ferroelectric transition of Sr5SmTi3Nb7O30 tetragonal tungsten bronze ceramics was investigated using dielectric characterization, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and the in situ Raman scattering. The first‐order ferroelectric transition was indicated around 200°C by the dielectric peak and the endothermic DSC peak on heating. The ferroelectric transition exhibited large thermal hysteresis and severe depression of the Curie–Weiss temperature (T0), where the transition peak did not show up on cooling in both the permittivity and DSC curves. The thermal hysteresis was attributed to the complex nature of the tungsten bronze structure. According to the DSC results, gradual recovery of the endothermic peak occurred after aging at 20°C, indicating the gradual stability of the ferroelectric phase after cooling from the high temperature paraelectric phase. Meanwhile, anomalies in the Raman spectra were also observed around 200°C, corresponding to the ferroelectric transition. Mechanism of the ferroelectric transition in Sr5SmTi3Nb7O30 ceramics was discussed according to the variation of the external and internal Raman modes with increasing temperature.
La qualité de l'emploi salarié au Québec et au Royaume‐Uni entre 1998 et 2008: évolution selon le genre et la situation familiale
Authors: CLOUTIER‐VILLENEUVE Luc
Published: May 2012

A partir d'une typologie combinant rémunération, heures de travail, qualification et stabilité de l'emploi, l'auteur compare l'évolution, au Québec (Canada) et au Royaume‐Uni, de la qualité de l'emploi des femmes et des hommes, avec ou sans enfants. Il observe une réduction appréciable de l'écart entre les genres chez les personnes ayant de jeunes enfants entre 1998 et 2008. Toutefois, la situation des mères par rapport aux pères demeure nettement meilleure au Québec qu'au Royaume‐Uni et s'explique notamment par un meilleur contexte économique, des politiques sociales plus favorables aux femmes et des heures de travail nettement moins élevées chez les pères québécois.
Differentiation in parasitism among ecotypes of whitefish segregating along depth gradients
Authors: Karvonen Anssi , Lundsgaard‐Hansen Bänz , Jokela Jukka , Seehausen Ole
Published: May 2012

Parasitism is a potential mechanism initiating or facilitating ecotypic differentiation and speciation in freshwater fish. While recent studies have begun to explore this question, there are no empirical studies of parasitism in evolutionary replicates of ecotype‐pairs at variable stages of speciation. Such comparative studies of parasitism along continuums of host differentiation are needed as a first step towards testing the role of parasites in ecological speciation. We explored parasitism of whitefish Coregonus lavaretus in four pre‐alpine lakes in Switzerland that hold replicate species radiations of whitefish. We sampled shallow and deep‐spawning ecotypes on their breeding grounds. We found significant and consistent differences in infection between the ecotypes so that the shallow‐spawning fish had more trematode infections, whereas the deepspawning fish had more cestodes. The magnitude of these differences correlated positively with the degree of the genetic differentiation among the ecotypes and negatively with the extent of eutrophication of the lakes. Although the overall diversity of infections was low, some parasite species with potential effects on fish showed marked differences in infection between the ecotypes, suggesting that parasitism may have a role in maintaining ecotype differentiation in this system. Our results also indicate previously unknown habitat segregation of the better differentiated ecotypes, i.e. species, along the depth gradient outside the breeding season. Moreover, oligotrophic lakes tended to have higher parasite species richness and higher abundances of infection, than mesotrophic and eutrophic lakes, suggesting that the history of eutrophication affects parasite diversity.
Legacy of Lionel McKenzie, 2
Authors: Jones Ronald W. , Nishimura Kazuo , Yano Makoto
Published: May 2012

This article discusses Lionel McKenzie’s work and influence on economics by highlighting his work on stability, comparative statics, and international trade.
Pareto‐improving price regulation when the asset market is incomplete: An example
Authors: Herings P. J. J. , Polemarchakis H.
Published: May 2012

In a robust example of an economy with an incomplete asset market, price regulation, that operates anonymously, on market variables, can be Pareto‐improving.
Therapeutic Effect of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells and BDNF-immobilized PLGA Membrane in a Rat Model of Cavernous Nerve Injury
Authors: Piao Shuyu , Kim In Gul , Lee Ji Young , Hong Sung Hoo , Kim Sae Woong , Hwang Tae-Kon , Oh Se Heang , Lee Jin Ho , Ra Jeong Chan , Lee Ji Youl
Published: May 2012

Introduction

Cavernous nerve injury is the main reason for post-prostatectomy erectile dysfunction (ED). Stem cell and neuroprotection therapy are promising therapeutic strategy for ED.

Aim

To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) immobilized Poly-Lactic-Co-Glycolic (PLGA) membrane on the cavernous nerve in a rat model of post-prostatectomy ED.

Methods

Rats were randomly divided into five groups: normal group, bilateral cavernous nerve crush injury (BCNI) group, ADSC (BCNI group with ADSCs on cavernous nerve) group, BDNF-membrane (BCNI group with BDNF/PLGA membrane on cavernous nerve) group, and ADSC/BDNF-membrane (BCNI group with ADSCs covered with BDNF/PLGA membrane on cavernous nerve) group. BDNF was controlled-released for a period of 4 weeks in a BDNF/PLGA porous membrane system.

Main Outcome Measures

Four weeks after the operation, erectile function was assessed by detecting the ratio of intra-cavernous pressure (ICP)/mean arterial pressure (MAP). Smooth muscle and collagen content were determined by Masson’s trichrome staining. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) expression in the dorsal penile nerve was detected by immunostaining. Phospho-endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) protein expression and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) level of the corpus cavernosum were quantified by Western blotting and cGMP assay, respectively.

Results

In the ADSC/BDNF-membrane group, erectile function was significantly elevated, compared with the BCNI and other treated groups. ADSC/BDNF-membrane treatment significantly increased smooth muscle/collagen ratio, nNOS content, phospho-eNOS protein expression, and cGMP level, compared with the BCNI and other treated groups.

Conclusions

ADSCs with BDNF-membrane on the cavernous nerve can improve erectile function in a rat model of post-prostatectomy ED, which may be used as a novel therapy for post-prostatectomy ED.
Movement Patterns and Spatial Relationships Among African Forest Elephants
Authors: Schuttler Stephanie G. , Blake Stephen , Eggert Lori S.
Published: May 2012

African forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis) are of immediate conservation concern, yet are understudied due to inaccessible habitats. We analyzed the home range size and overlap of six adult females. Home ranges were among the smallest for all elephant species and individuals were positioned adjacent to one another with minimal overlap.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Oral Prodrugs Based on the Structure of Gemcitabine
Authors: Zhao Cuirong , Xue Xiaoxia , Li Gang , Sun Cuicui , Sun Changjun , Qu Xianjun , Li Wenbao
Published: May 2012

A series of oral prodrugs based on the structure of gemcitabine (2′,2′‐difluorodeoxycytidine) were synthesised by introducing an amide group at the N4‐position of the cytidine ring. A total of 16 compounds were obtained, and their chemical and biological characteristics were evaluated. The half‐maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) for most of these compounds were higher than that of gemcitabine in vitro. Compounds 5d and 5m, the representative compounds, were examined in terms of their physiological stabilities and pharmacokinetics. Compound 5d showed good stability in PBS and simulated intestinal fluid, and an analysis of its pharmacokinetics in mice suggested that the introduction of an amide group to gemcitabine could greatly improve its bioavailability. Further evaluation of compound 5din vivo showed that this compound possesses higher activity than gemcitabine against the growth of HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma cells and HCT‐116 colon adenocarcinoma cells with less toxicity to animals. These results suggest that compound 5d could be further developed as a potential oral anticancer agent for clinical applications in which gemcitabine is currently used.
Picturing German: Teaching Language and Literature through Visual Art
Authors: Knapp Thyra E.
Published: May 2012

This article examines the importance of visual culture with regard to its pedagogical applications in the German language classroom. I begin by outlining the benefits and concerns associated with making visual art a part of the curriculum. Next, practical ideas are presented for using paintings in beginning, intermediate, and advanced courses. From the acquisition of basic vocabulary, to a springboard for descriptive writing, to the illustration of literary and cultural movements such as Classicism, Romanticism, or Expressionism, visual art can be employed on all levels of instruction to enrich both language acquisition and cultural competency. Perhaps most significantly, visual art can be used to inspire students to take a closer look at literature, providing access to verbal art ranging from prose to drama to poetry. The immediacy of images engages interest in a way that encourages critical thinking and an understanding of how language, literature, and culture are inextricably connected.
European pet travel: Misleading information from veterinarians and government agencies
Authors: Davidson R. K. , Robertson L. J.
Published: May 2012

Inter‐country travel of companion animals provides an opportunity for introduction of zoonotic pathogens, such as rabies virus and Echinococcus spp. Regulations are in place to control this threat, but Schengen Agreements mean that border controls between some European countries are minimal, and animals may enter countries without any checks that they have been appropriately treated. Veterinarians provide an important source of information for people intending to travel with their pets. We conducted a telephone survey to investigate provision of correct advice to someone intending to travel with their dog to Norway. Mainland Norway is considered free of both rabies and E. multilocularis and is a signatory to the Schengen Agreement. Ten randomly selected veterinary clinics were surveyed in Austria, Belgium (Wallonia), Finland, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom. The information provided was scored as correct, incorrect or incomplete. The information provided by secondary information sources (website or government agency), which the clinic had referred the caller to, was also assessed (correct, incorrect, incomplete). Whilst the majority of clinics provided appropriate information regarding rabies, many clinics did not provide correct information regarding treatment for E. multilocularis. Less than one in 10 clinics provided the correct information regarding both pathogens directly at the time of calling. The correct information was obtained, once taking into account secondary sources, just 62% of the time. Countrywise, most clinics in Finland provided correct advice, either directly or indirectly via referring the caller to another source, whilst the majority in Belgium, Germany and France did not. The apparent paucity of readily accessible, correct advice for owners intending to travel with their dogs is concerning. The compulsory treatment regulations are only as good as the checks that ensure compliance, and this is also lacking in some countries.
War and Poverty
Authors: Justino Patricia
Published: May 2012

The main objective of this paper is to systematically identify potential channels of transmission linking civil war and poverty that may lead to the persistence of cycles of poverty and war. A particular focus of the paper is the notion of individual (and group) agency during civil wars, as well as agency constraints faced by populations affected by violence. Although the outbreak and impact of war is known to depend on several financial and political factors, the onset, duration and magnitude of the impact of civil wars are also closely related to what happens to people during violent conflicts and to what people do in areas of violence to secure livelihoods, economic survival, physical security and their social networks. The nature and extent of these choices depends in turn on how individuals and households relate to changes in social norms and forms of institutional organisation during civil wars. The paper explores the economic channels through which war may simultaneously affect and be affected by the economic status and responses of individuals and their immediate relations in areas of violent conflict to cope with and adapt to changes to livelihoods and economic status during civil wars. This analysis focuses in particular on the important but under‐researched role of social and political institutional transformation during civil war on individual and household poverty.
Diagnostic utility of computed tomography imaging in foals: 10 cases (2008–2010)
Authors: Barba M. , Lepage O. M.
Published: May 2012

Despite an increasing number of case reports published using computed tomography (CT) in foals only limited data on its diagnostic utility are available. Medical and imaging records of 10 foals that had a CT examination between May 2008 and December 2010 were retrieved and studied. Three out of 10 cases were examined for orthopaedic problems, 3 were referred for medical disorders, 3 for both orthopaedic and medical problems, and one case was presented for a follow‐up of an abdominal mass. In this series CT was an accurate diagnostic tool in identifying abscesses, osteomyelitis, arthritis, physitis and fractures, bone ossification defects, intracranial haematomas and sinusitis. An indication for the best medical and/or surgical approach was obtained.
Rapid dopaminergic and GABAergic modulation of calcium and voltage transients in dendrites of prefrontal cortex pyramidal neurons
Authors: Zhou Wen‐Liang , Antic Srdjan D.
Published: May 2012

Key points

Dopamine‐releasing axons make direct synaptic contacts with the dendrites of cortical pyramidal neurons. It is not known if and how dendritic physiology changes upon dopamine release at these synapses.

We attempted to mimic synaptically released dopamine by ejecting dopamine from a micropipette. Action potential‐induced voltage transients and corresponding calcium influx were both measured in thin dendritic branches using voltage‐sensitive and calcium‐sensitive dyes, before and after local application of dopamine or GABA.

GABA blocked calcium influx in dendrites by blocking AP backpropagation. Dopamine, on the other hand, reduced dendritic calcium influx only at the site of dopamine release. APs successfully propagated through the dopamine application site.

Dopamine blocked dendritic voltage‐gated calcium channels in the presence of protein kinase blockers, suggesting a membrane delimited mechanism.

Spatially restricted dopamine‐mediated suppression of dendritic calcium is expected to occur during phasic dopaminergic signalling, when midbrain dopaminergic neurons respond to a salient event.

Abstract  The physiological responses of dendrites to dopaminergic inputs are poorly understood and controversial. We applied dopamine on one dendritic branch while simultaneously monitoring action potentials (APs) from multiple dendrites using either calcium‐sensitive dye, voltage‐sensitive dye or both. Dopaminergic suppression of dendritic calcium transients was rapid (<0.5 s) and restricted to the site of dopamine application. Voltage waveforms of backpropagating APs were minimally altered in the same dendrites where dopamine was confirmed to cause large suppression of calcium signals, as determined by dual voltage and calcium imaging. The dopamine effects on dendritic calcium transients were fully mimicked by D1 agonists, partially reduced by D1 antagonist and completely insensitive to protein kinase blockade; consistent with a membrane delimited mechanism. This dopamine effect was unaltered in the presence of L‐, R‐ and T‐type calcium channel blockers. The somatic excitability (i.e. AP firing) was not affected by strong dopaminergic stimulation of dendrites. Dopamine and GABA were then sequentially applied on the same dendrite. In contrast to dopamine, the pulses of GABA prohibited AP backpropagation distally from the application site, even in neurons with natural Cl− concentration (patch pipette removed). Thus, the neocortex employs at least two distinct mechanisms (dopamine and GABA) for rapid modulation of dendritic calcium influx. The spatio‐temporal pattern of dendritic calcium suppression described in this paper is expected to occur during phasic dopaminergic signalling, when midbrain dopaminergic neurons generate a transient (0.5 s) burst of APs in response to a salient event.
STIM/Orai signalling complexes in vascular smooth muscle
Authors: Trebak Mohamed
Published: May 2012

Abstract  Stromal interaction molecules (STIM1 and STIM2) are single pass transmembrane proteins located mainly in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). STIM proteins contain an EF‐hand in their N‐termini that faces the lumen side of the ER allowing them to act as ER calcium (Ca2+) sensors. STIM1 has been recognized as central to the activation of the highly Ca2+ selective store‐operated Ca2+ (SOC) entry current mediated by the Ca2+ release‐activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channel; CRAC channels are formed by tetramers of the plasma membrane (PM) protein Orai1. Physiologically, the production of inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate (IP3) upon stimulation of phospholipase C‐coupled receptors and the subsequent emptying of IP3‐sensitive ER Ca2+ stores are sensed by STIM1 molecules which aggregate and move closer to the PM to interact physically with Orai1 channels and activate Ca2+ entry. Orai1 has two homologous proteins encoded by separate genes, Orai2 and Orai3. Other modes of receptor‐regulated Ca2+ entry into cells are store‐independent; for example, arachidonic acid activates a highly Ca2+ selective store‐independent channel formed by heteropentamers of Orai1 and Orai3 and regulated by the PM pool of STIM1. Here, I will discuss results pertaining to the roles of STIM and Orai proteins in smooth muscle Ca2+ entry pathways and their role in vascular remodelling.
Transcompartmental reversal of single fibre hyperexcitability in juxtaparanodal Kv1.1‐deficient vagus nerve axons by activation of nodal KCNQ channels
Authors: Glasscock Edward , Qian Jing , Kole Matthew J. , Noebels Jeffrey L.
Published: May 2012

Key points

Voltage‐gated Kv1.1 potassium channels cluster at juxtaparanodes of myelinated axons in the vagus nerve, which provides parasympathetic innervation to the heart.

Kcna1 knockout mice lacking Kv1.1 channels exhibit frequent atrioventricular cardiac conduction blocks that are abolished by atropine, suggestive of a vagal mechanism.

Electrophysiological analysis of single myelinated axons from wild‐type and Kv1.1‐deficient mouse vagus nerves revealed that the absence of Kv1.1 channels rendered large myelinated vagal axons far more susceptible to spontaneous ectopic firing in the presence of 4‐aminopyridine.

KCNQ2 potassium channels are present within vagal nodes of Ranvier and their activation with flupirtine rescued single axon hyperexcitability mediated by juxtaparanodal Kv1.1‐deficiency.

These results demonstrate a functional synergy between nodal and extranodal K+ channels and implicate KCNQ channels as potential targets for Kv1‐related peripheral nerve hyperexcitability.

Abstract  Kv1.1 channels cluster at juxtaparanodes of myelinated axons in the vagus nerve, the primary conduit for parasympathetic innervation of the heart. Kcna1‐null mice lacking these channels exhibit neurocardiac dysfunction manifested by atropine‐sensitive atrioventricular conduction blocks and bradycardia that may culminate in sudden death. To evaluate whether loss of Kv1.1 channels alters electrogenic properties within the nerve, we compared the intrinsic excitability of single myelinated A‐ and Aδ‐axons from excised cervical vagus nerves of young adult Kcna1‐null mice and age‐matched, wild‐type littermate controls. Although action potential shapes and relative refractory periods varied little between genotypes, Kv1.1‐deficient large myelinated A‐axons showed a fivefold increase in susceptibility to 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP)‐induced spontaneous ectopic firing. Since the repolarizing currents of juxtaparanodal Kv1 channels and nodal KCNQ potassium channels both act to dampen repetitive activity, we examined whether augmenting nodal KCNQ activation could compensate for Kv1.1 loss and reverse the spontaneous hyperexcitability in Kv1.1‐deficient A‐axons. Application of the selective KCNQ opener flupirtine raised A‐axon firing threshold while profoundly suppressing 4‐AP‐induced spontaneous firing, demonstrating a functional synergy between the two compartments. We conclude that juxtaparanodal Kv1.1‐deficiency causes intrinsic hyperexcitability in large myelinated axons in vagus nerve which could contribute to autonomic dysfunction in Kcna1‐null mice, and that KCNQ openers reveal a transcompartmental synergy between Kv1 and KCNQ channels in regulating axonal excitability.
Comparison of topogram‐based body size indices for CT dose consideration and scan protocol optimization
Authors: Li Baojun , Behrman Richard H. , Norbash Alexander M.
Published: May 2012

Purpose:

To retrospectively compare different topogram‐based patient body size indices and to determine the optimal topogram‐based body size index as a basis for body computed tomography (CT) dose consideration and scan protocol optimization.

Methods:

Forty‐three routine thorax and abdomen CT scans are studied retrospectively, with patient ages ranging from 18 to 67 yr. The individual patient's water‐equivalent diameter (Dw) of the scanned body region is computed from CT DICOM images as the “gold standard,” after first converting from Hounsfield units values to μa values, where μ is the normalized tissue attenuation coefficient and a is the area per pixel. Four topogram‐based body size indices [average diameter , girth (G), topogram projection area (Etopo), and improved topogram projection area ] are computed and correlated with Dw using linear regression analysis. Specifically, is calculated by averaging the coronal and sagittal diameters; G is computed by modeling the patient's cross‐section as an ellipse; Etopo is the product of the mean topogram pixel value and the width of the scanned body region; and incorporates Etopo with correction of patient miscentering and water attenuation coefficient. The accuracy of these four approaches for estimation of Dw is assessed using linear regression models. Results are given in terms of 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results:

Regression analysis results in four different linear models. The standard error (95% CI) for estimation ofDw from and G was ±2.8 and ±3.1 cm, respectively (p = 0.297). The standard error for estimation of Dw from Etopo was significantly less than that from (±2.1 cm, p < 0.01). The standard error for estimation of Dw from was ±1.3 cm, significantly less than that from Etopo (p < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Among the four topogram‐based patient body indices, is the most accurate for estimation of individual x‐ray attenuation of the scanned body region. Thus, is an optimal topogram‐based patient body size index that is relevant for determining the proper CT dose level for individual patients.
Spring Into Flower
Authors: Hines Pamela J.
Published: May 2012

A plant protein sensitive to blue light links longer afternoons to more flowering.
A BAD Metabolic Choice
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: May 2012

Preventing the phosphorylation of BAD switches the primary fuel source of neurons from glucose to ketone bodies.
Socio-demographic and other patient characteristics associated with time between colonoscopy and surgery, and choice of treatment centre for colorectal cancer: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Goldsbury David , Harris Mark Fort , Pascoe Shane , Olver Ian , Barton Michael , Spigelman Allan , O'Connell Dianne
Published: May 2012

Objectives

To investigate key patient clinical and demographic characteristics associated with time between colonoscopy and surgery, and choice of treatment centre for colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. This will add to the little published research examining the pathway following CRC diagnosis and prior to surgery.

Design

Retrospective cohort analysis of linked data.

Setting

A population-based sample of people diagnosed August 2004 to December 2007 in New South Wales, Australia.

Participants

569 CRC patients, of whom 407 (72%, 95% CI 68% to 75%) had colonoscopy followed by surgery.

Primary outcome measures

Time between colonoscopy and surgery, and whether the surgery took place in a specialist cancer centre.

Results

Among the 407 eligible patients analysed, the median time from colonoscopy to surgery was 19 days (IQR 12–29 days). After adjusting for key demographic and clinical characteristics such as age and disease stage, the time was longer for rectal cancer patients and those reporting fair/poor health, although differences in medians were <5 days. 24% (95% CI 20% to 28%) had surgery in a specialist cancer centre, which was more common among people resident in metropolitan areas (37% vs 14% for others, adjusted p=0.001) and those without private health insurance (30% vs 21% for others, adjusted p=0.03).

Conclusions

There do not appear to be systemic issues affecting time from colonoscopy to surgery related to patients' socio-demographic characteristics. However, patients with private insurance and those living in rural areas may be less likely to receive optimal specialist treatment. A more systematic approach might be needed to ensure cancer patients are treated in specialist cancer centres, particularly patients requiring more specialised treatment.
A qualitative approach using the integrative model of behaviour change to identify intervention strategies to increase optimal child restraint practices among culturally and linguistically diverse families in New South Wales
Authors: Brown Julie , Burton Danielle , Nikolin Stevan , Crooks Philippa Jane , Hatfield Julie , Bilston Lynne E
Published: May 2012

Objectives

To qualitatively explore barriers to optimal child restraint use using the integrative behaviour change model in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities in New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

Methods

A semi-structured discussion was used to conduct 11 language specific focus groups in Arabic, Assyrian, Cantonese, Mandarin, Vietnamese and Turkish. Translated transcriptions were analysed using the major concepts of the integrative behaviour change model.

Results

Restraint use intent among CALD community carers is related to perceived safety of their children and complying with the law. While most participants appreciated the safety benefits of correct and appropriate use, a minority did not. Child restraint legislation may positively influence social norms, and enforcement appears to increase parental self-efficacy. However, concerns over child comfort may negatively influence both norms and self-efficacy. There are clear deficits in knowledge that may act as barriers as well as confusion over best practice in safely transporting children. Large family size, vehicle size and cost appear to be real environmental constraints in CALD communities.

Conclusion

Determinants of intent and deficits in knowledge in this diverse range of CALD communities in NSW Australia are similar to those reported in other qualitative studies regardless of the population studied. This indicates that key messages should be the same regardless of the target population. However, for CALD communities there is a specific need to ensure access to detailed information through appropriate delivery strategies and languages. Furthermore, practical constraints such as cost of restraints and family size may be particularly important in CALD communities.
Differences in incidence of injury between rural and urban children in Canada and the USA: a systematic review
Authors: Kim Kyungsu , Ozegovic Dejan , Voaklander Donald C
Published: May 2012

Objective

The goal of the study was to systematically review available evidence regarding differences in injury incidence between rural and urban paediatric populations in Canada and the USA.

Data source

Eight electronic databases, institutional websites and reference lists of relevant studies including published and unpublished reports.

Selection criteria

Population-based observational studies or surveys published from 1970 to February 2011 that compared injury incidence or injury-related healthcare outcomes between rural and urban children (<18) living in Canada or the USA.

Data collection and analysis

Two reviewers independently applied selection criteria and assessed methodological quality of studies. Data were extracted by one author and independently verified by the second author. Injury rate ratios for rural and urban children were extracted or calculated. Data were synthesised descriptively due to substantial heterogeneity among studies.

Results

A total of 41 studies were included for this review (seven surveys and 34 studies using administrative health databases). Internal validity of included studies was moderate. Rural children were at higher risk of overall injury, motor vehicle crash injury and suicide, whereas urban children in the USA experienced higher rates of firearm-related homicides. Greater rural–urban injury disparities were likely to be found between more extreme rural and urban areas. In particular, children in remote rural areas are at increased risk of severe injuries than urban counterparts. Overall, healthcare costs per child for injury were higher for rural children.

Conclusion

These findings indicate the need of developing geographic area-specific injury-prevention strategies. Future research is required to investigate rural–urban disparity for less-studied injuries and related health outcomes (eg, disability).

Systematic review registration number

CRD42011001244 (PROSPERO 2011).
VECTOR BOSON SCATTERING AND BOUNDARY CONDITIONS IN KALUZA–KLEIN TOY MODEL
Authors: MORÁVEK PETR , HOŘEJŠÍ JIŘÍ
Published: May 2012

We study a simple higher-dimensional toy model of electroweak symmetry breaking, in particular a pure gauge 5D theory on flat background with one extra finite space dimension. The principle of least action and the requirement of gauge independence of scattering amplitudes are used to determine the possible choices of boundary conditions. We demonstrate that for any of these choices the scattering amplitudes of vector bosons do not exhibit power-like growth in the high energy limit. Our analysis is an extension and generalization of the results obtained previously by other authors.
SIMULATION OF THE ACOUSTIC FIELD OF A HORN LOUDSPEAKER BY THE BOUNDARY ELEMENT–RAYLEIGH INTEGRAL METHOD
Authors: KIRKUP S. M. , THOMPSON A. , KOLBREK BJØRN , YAZDANI J.
Published: May 2012

The boundary element–Rayleigh integral method (BERIM) is developed for the solution of acoustic problems consisting of a cavity with a single opening. The method is a hybrid of the interior boundary element method (BEM) and the Rayleigh integral method for the solution of the Helmholtz equation. FORTRAN codes for expressing the method for axisymmetric problems and general three-dimensional problems are developed. Both methods are applied to the problem of simulating the acoustic field produced by horn loudspeakers. The results are compared with measured data and the traditional exterior BEM. It is shown that the method can have significant computational advantages over the traditional BEM for problems consisting of an open cavity.
Introduction to Topological Insulators
Authors: Weng Hongming , Dai Xi , Fang Zhong
Published: May 2012

In this article, we will give a brief introduction to the topological insulators. We will briefly review some of the recent progresses from both theoretical and experimental sides. In particular, we will emphasize the recent progresses achieved in China.
A Comprehensive Review of Hypertension in Pregnancy
Authors: Mustafa Reem , Ahmed Sana , Gupta Anu , Venuto Rocco C.
Published: May 2012

Hypertension is the most common medical disorder encountered during pregnancy. Hypertensive disorders are one of the major causes of pregnancy-related maternal deaths in the United States. We will present a comprehensive update of the literature pertinent to hypertension in pregnancy. The paper begins by defining and classifying hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. The normal vascular and renal physiological changes which occur during pregnancy are detailed. We will summarize the intriguing aspects of pathophysiology of preeclampsia, emphasizing on recent advances in this field. The existing diagnostic tools and the tests which have been proposed for screening preeclampsia are comprehensively described. We also highlight the short- and long-term implications of preeclampsia. Finally, we review the current management guidelines, goals of treatment and describe the potential risks and benefits associated with various antihypertensive drug classes. Preeclampsia still remains an enigma, and the present management focuses on monitoring and treatment of its manifestations. We are hopeful that this in depth critique will stimulate the blossoming research in the field and assist practitioners to identify women at risk and more effectively treat affected individuals.
Sarcopenia and Age-Related Endocrine Function
Authors: Sakuma Kunihiro , Yamaguchi Akihiko
Published: May 2012

Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of skeletal muscle, is characterized by a deterioration of muscle quantity and quality leading to a gradual slowing of movement, a decline in strength and power, and an increased risk of fall-related injuries. Since sarcopenia is largely attributed to various molecular mediators affecting fiber size, mitochondrial homeostasis, and apoptosis, numerous targets exist for drug discovery. In this paper, we summarize the current understanding of the endocrine contribution to sarcopenia and provide an update on hormonal intervention to try to improve endocrine defects. Myostatin inhibition seems to be the most interesting strategy for attenuating sarcopenia other than resistance training with amino acid supplementation. Testosterone supplementation in large amounts and at low frequency improves muscle defects with aging but has several side effects. Although IGF-I is a potent regulator of muscle mass, its therapeutic use has not had a positive effect probably due to local IGF-I resistance. Treatment with ghrelin may ameliorate the muscle atrophy elicited by age-dependent decreases in growth hormone. Ghrelin is an interesting candidate because it is orally active, avoiding the need for injections. A more comprehensive knowledge of vitamin-D-related mechanisms is needed to utilize this nutrient to prevent sarcopenia.
Mechanical and Thermal Characteristics of Bio-Nanocomposites Consisting of Poly-L-lactic Acid and Self-Assembling Siloxane Nanoparticles with Three Phases
Authors: Iji Masatoshi , Morishita Naoki
Published: May 2012

Biopolymer nanocomposites (bio-nanocomposite) consisting of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and siloxane nanoparticles with three phases, a high-density siloxane phase (plural cores), an elastomeric silicone phase, and a caprolactone oligomer phase, were developed to increase the mechanical properties of PLLA. The nanoparticles, average size of 13 nm, were self-assembled by aggregation and condensation of an organosiloxane with three units: isocyanatepropyltrimethoxysilane (IPTS), polymethylpropyloxysiloxane (PMPS), and a caprolactone oligomer (CLO), which form each phase. The bio-nanocomposite was produced using PLLA and the nanoparticles. Bending and tensile testing showed that the use of these nanoparticles (5 wt% in PLLA) greatly increases the tenacity (breaking strain) of PLLA while maintaining its relatively high breaking (maximum) strength. The elongation of the nanocomposite was more than twice that of PLLA while the elasticity modulus and breaking (maximum) strength were comparable to those of PLLA. The nanoparticles also increased the impact strength of PLLA. The use of the nanoparticles almost did not show adverse affect on the thermal resistance of PLLA. The nanocomposite’s heat resistance indicated by the glass transition temperature and heat distortion temperature was fairly kept. The decomposition temperature of the nanocomposite somewhat increased.
Fournier's Gangrene due to Masturbation in an Otherwise Healthy Male
Authors: Heiner Jason D. , Eng Katisha D. , Bialowas Todd A. , Devita Diane
Published: May 2012

Fournier's gangrene is a rare and often fulminant necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum and genital region frequently due to a synergistic polymicrobial infection. This truly emergent condition is typically seen in elderly, diabetic, or otherwise immune-compromised individuals. Here, we report an unusual case of Fournier's gangrene due to excessive masturbation in an otherwise healthy 29-year-old male who presented to the emergency department complaining of two days of fever, vomiting, and diffuse myalgias. Upon further questioning, he also endorsed severe scrotal pain and swelling and frequent masturbation with soap as a lubricant resulting in recurrent penile erythema and minor skin abrasions. Examination of the patient's perineum was consistent with Fournier's gangrene and included significant erythema, edema, and calor of the penis and scrotum with a large malodorous eschar. He was given intravenous antibiotics and immunoglobulin and promptly underwent three surgical debridements of the scrotum and penis with split-thickness skin grafting. Complications from excessive masturbation are exceedingly rare, but as this case illustrates, they can be life threatening.
Stability and Stabilization of Impulsive Stochastic Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Wu Kaining , Ding Xiaohua
Published: May 2012

We consider the stability and stabilization of impulsive stochastic delay differential equations (ISDDEs). Using the Lyapunov‐Razumikhin method, we obtain the sufficient conditions to guarantee the pth moment exponential stability of ISDDEs. Then the almost sure exponential stability is considered and the sufficient conditions of the almost sure exponential stability are obtained. Moreover, the stabilization problem of ISDDEs is studied and the criterion on impulsive stabilization of ISDDEs is established. At last, examples are presented to illustrate the correctness of our results.
Disrupted Signaling through the Fanconi Anemia Pathway Leads to Dysfunctional Hematopoietic Stem Cell Biology: Underlying Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Geiselhart Anja , Lier Amelie , Walter Dagmar , Milsom Michael D.
Published: May 2012

Fanconi anemia (FA) is the most common inherited bone marrow failure syndrome. FA patients suffer to varying degrees from a heterogeneous range of developmental defects and, in addition, have an increased likelihood of developing cancer. Almost all FA patients develop a severe, progressive bone marrow failure syndrome, which impacts upon the production of all hematopoietic lineages and, hence, is thought to be driven by a defect at the level of the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC). This hypothesis would also correlate with the very high incidence of MDS and AML that is observed in FA patients. In this paper, we discuss the evidence that supports the role of dysfunctional HSC biology in driving the etiology of the disease. Furthermore, we consider the different model systems currently available to study the biology of cells defective in the FA signaling pathway and how they are informative in terms of identifying the physiologic mediators of HSC depletion and dissecting their putative mechanism of action. Finally, we ask whether the insights gained using such disease models can be translated into potential novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of the hematologic disorders in FA patients.