bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Debate on the Baltic Crusades and the Making of Europe
Authors: Bombi Barbara
Published: September 2013

The Baltic Crusades represent a long‐term phenomenon that lasted for about 300 years (1147–1525). The nature of these crusades has been controversial from the very beginning, as they aimed at conquering new land, expanding and consolidating the borders of Christendom, as well as at converting the local pagan population. Along with the ethical issues that are linked to conversion by means of crusading, the debate on the Baltic Crusades has also been heavily influenced by the political situation in the Baltic region and the making of Europe in the 20th century, from German domination and the rise of National Socialism, to the Cold War and finally the independence of the Baltic republics. Two historiographical approaches are mainly addressed in this essay: on the one hand, some works have focused on the religious aspects of mission, conversion and crusading, taking into account the role of the papacy, preaching and ecclesiastical institutions; on the other hand, historians have been interested in conversion and crusading in the Baltic region as means of economic, social and political expansion that contributed to the formation of political unity in Europe during the High Middle Ages, foreshadowing to some extent the well‐known events of the 20th century.
Comparative ecology of diurnal geckos (Lygodactylus) in Kafue flats, Zambia*
Authors: SIMBOTWE M. P.
Published: September 2013

Two species of Lygodactylus were observed during their natural period of diurnal activity under sympatric and allopatric conditions. Observations included daily activity patterns, habitat and microhabitat requirements, morphological growth, diet, survivorship and reproduction. Emphasis was placed upon ecological differences that may reduce competition under sympatric conditions.

Only slight differences in temporal patterns of activity occurred. Lygodactylus chobiensis was found to use live trees more than dead trees. The opposite was true for L. capensis. Both species are largely arboreal. Females were slightly longer than males in L. chobiensis (100.6%) and in L. capensis (100.1%). Males of both species weighed more than females. Both species fed largely on termites. Survivorship was low and reproduction occurred throughout the year. Females attained sexual maturity at an earlier age than males. In general under sympatric condition both species were found widely dispersed over a large area and occurred in low numbers.

Deux espèces de Lygodactylus ont été observés durant leur période naturelle d'activité diurne, en conditions sympatriques et allopatriques. Les observations comprennent l'actogramme, les exigences pour l'habitat et le microhabitat, la croissance morphologique, le régime alimentaire, la survie et la reproduction. L'accent est mis sur les différences écologiques qui peuvent réduire la compétition en conditions sympatriques.

Seules sont apparues de légères différences dans la structure temporelle des activités. On a vu que Lygodactylus chobiensis utilise davantage les arbres vivants que les arbres morts, alors que c'est le contraire chez Lygodactylus capensis. Les deux espèces sont principalement arboricoles.

Les femelles sont légérement plus longues que les mâles tant chez L. chobiensis que chez L. capensis. Les mâles des deux espèces sont plus lourds que les femelles. Toutes deux se nourrissent largement de termites. Le taux de survie est faible et la reproduction survient tout au long de l'année. Les femelles atteignent la maturité sexuelle à un âge plus précoce que les mâles. De manière générale, en condition sympatrique, les deux espèces sont dispersées sur une grande surface et vivent en petits nombres.
Haematological observations on the Zambian snakes in the genera Dispholidus, Naja and Psammophylax*
Authors: SIMBOTWE M. P. , GHOSH T. , GRIMM H.
Published: September 2013

Haematological studies of the snakes in the genera Dispholidus, Naja and Psammophylax were carried out. In Dispholidus typus, the majority of the red blood cells were oval. All cells contained central nuclei with moderately open chromatin and many were pynotic. Cells of different sizes and stages of development were present. Naja haje had red blood cells of various shapes ranging from circular to oval. Elongated poikilocytes (helmet cells) were present and these constituted 3–4% of total cells. Structure of the nuclei was similar to that found in D. typus. Cells were larger in larger specimens of the same species. Psammophylax tritaeniatus red blood cells were nearly all round. In all species, cell sizes, surface areas and shapes varied within individuals and between species. In D. typus and Naja haje, leucocytes showed degenerative changes and neutrophils showed pale basophilic cytoplasm. Some lymphocytes were seen. Haemoglobin and haematocrit results confirm earlier work on reptiles.

Des études hématologiques de serpents des genres Dispholidus, Naja et Psammophylax ont été entreprises. Chez Dispholidus typus, la majorité des globules rouges sont ovales. Toutes les cellules contiennent un noyau central avec chromatine et beaucoup sont pynotiques. On constate des cellules de différentes tailles et différents stades de développement. Naja haje a des globules rouges de formes variées allant du cercle à l'ovale. On observe que des poikilocytes forment 3 à 4% du total des cellules. La structure des noyaux est similaire à celle de D. typus. Les cellules sont plus grandes chez les plus grands spécimens de la même espèce.

Les globules rouges de Psammophylax tritaeniatus sont presque tous ronds. Chez toutes les espèces, la taille des cellules, leur surface et leur forme varient selon les individus et selon les espèces. Chez D. typus et Naja haje, les leucocytes présentent une évolution dégénérescente et les nucléophiles un pâle cytoplasme basophilique.

Certains lymphocytes ont été observés. Les résultats d'analyse sur l'hémoglobine et l'hématocrite confirment les travaux antérieurs sur les reptiles.
Observations on the Nile monitor lizard (Varanus niloticus, L.) in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Authors: EDROMA E. L. , SSALI W.
Published: September 2013

The daily activity, feeding habits and intra‐ and interspecific relationships of the monitor lizard Varanus niloticus (L.) were studied from 07.00 to 17.00 h. The lizards basked in the mornings (07.00–09.30) and afternoons (14.30–15.10). They are scavengers and predators.

L'activité journalière, les habitudes alimentaires et les relations inter‐ et intraspé cifiques du varan du Nil, Varanus niloticus L. ont étéétudiées de 7 à 17 heures. Les varans prennent le soleil le matin (7.00–10.30) et l'après‐midi (14.30–15.10). Ils sont charognards et prédateurs.
Foreign Debt Usage in Non‐Financial Firms: a Horse Race between Operating and Accounting Exposure Hedging
Authors: Aabo Tom , Hansen Marianna Andryeyeva , Muradoglu Yaz Gulnur
Published: September 2013

Previous studies show that foreign exchange exposure from international sales can be hedged by foreign debt. We go beyond the foreign sales measure by using a unique database with detailed exposure information on Danish non‐financial firms with international operations. Our results indicate that foreign debt is used to hedge foreign assets and subsidiaries (accounting exposure) as opposed to foreign sales (operating exposure). The paper adds to the literature on corporate hedging by highlighting the importance of accounting exposure in the hedging behavior of corporate managers and the perceived need to reduce risks due to currency mismatches between assets and liabilities.
Contrasting effects of different landscape characteristics on population growth of a perennial forest herb
Authors: Valdés Alicia , García Daniel , García María B. , Ehrlén Johan
Published: September 2013

Anthropogenic changes in landscape structure, such as habitat loss, habitat subdivision and edge increase, can strongly affect the performance of plants, leading to population declines and extinctions. Many studies to date have focused on single characteristics of landscape structure or single life‐cycle phases, but they poorly discern the different pathways through which landscape change influences plant population dynamics via different vital rates. In this study, we evaluated the effect of two structural characteristics (habitat quantity and edge length) on vital rates and population growth rates of a perennial forest plant (Primula vulgaris) in a historically managed landscape. Areas with higher amounts of forest habitat had higher population growth rates due to higher recruitment, survival and growth of seedlings, while increased forest edge length was positively associated with population growth rates primarily due to a higher survival of reproductive individuals. Effects were stronger during the first of the two transition intervals studied. The results demonstrate that changes in different landscape structural characteristics may result in opposing effects acting via different vital rates, and highlight the need for integrative analyses to evaluate the effects of rapid landscape transformation on the current and long term plant population dynamics.
Effects of the Number and Age of Siblings on Educational Transitions in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Kravdal Øystein , Kodzi Ivy , Sigle‐Rushton Wendy
Published: September 2013

Studies examining the link between number of siblings and level of education attained by children in Africa have produced mixed results. This study draws on Demographic and Health Survey data from 26 sub‐Saharan African countries and employs a multilevel multiprocess model that controls for time‐invariant unobserved mother‐level characteristics. We find indications that having younger siblings increases the likelihood of entering primary school; however, once a child is enrolled, having pre‐school aged siblings is negatively associated with educational progression. Having a greater number of siblings older than age 15 increases the likelihood of primary‐school entry and completion but has no effect on subsequent educational transitions. Some positive effects of having a greater number of siblings who are aged 6–15 are also observed. Girls are more adversely affected by having young siblings than are boys, but they benefit more than do boys from having siblings who are older than age 15. On the whole, the effects are not very strong, however.
Levels, Trends, and Determinants of Unintended Pregnancy in Iran: The Role of Contraceptive Failures
Authors: Erfani Amir
Published: September 2013

The rate of contraceptive use in Iran is high, but because abortion is illegal, many unintended pregnancies among married women are likely to be terminated by clandestine and often unsafe procedures, resulting in adverse health outcomes. Drawing upon data from the 2009 Tehran Survey of Fertility, this study estimates the levels and trends of unintended pregnancy and examines determinants of pregnancy intentions for the most recent birth, using multinomial logistic regression analysis. The level of unintended pregnancy decreased from 32 percent in 2000 to 21 percent in 2009, while contraceptive use increased. Unintended pregnancies in the five years preceding the 2009 survey resulted from failures of withdrawal (48 percent) and of modern contraceptive use (20 percent), together with contraceptive discontinuation (26 percent) and nonuse (6 percent). Multivariate findings show that, compared with women experiencing withdrawal failures, the risk of unintended pregnancy was higher among women reporting modern contraceptive failure and lower among those reporting contraceptive discontinuation and nonuse. The high risk of unwanted pregnancy among women experiencing failures in practicing withdrawal or using modern contraceptive methods points to an unmet need for family planning counseling and education rather than to a shortage of contraceptive methods.
A Novel Magnetodielectric Solid Solution Ceramic 0.4LiFe5O8–0.6Li2MgTi3O8 with Excellent Microwave Dielectric Properties
Authors: He Li , Zhou Di , Xiang Feng , Chang Panpan , Li Yong , Wang Hong
Published: September 2013

In this study, a novel spinel solid solution ceramic of 0.4LiFe5O8–0.6Li2MgTi3O8 (0.4LFO–0.6LMT) has been developed and investigated. It is found that the 40 mol% LiFe5O8 and 60 mol% Li2MgTi3O8 are fully soluble in each other and a disordered spinel phase is formed. The ceramic sample sintered at 1050°C/2 h exhibits both good magnetic and dielectric properties in the frequency range 1–10 MHz, with a permeability between 29.9~14.1 and magnetic loss tangent between 0.12~0.67, permittivity between 16.92~16.94 and dielectric loss tangent between 5.9 × 10−3–2.3 × 10−2. The sample also has good microwave dielectric properties with a relative permittivity of 16.1, a high quality factor (Q × f) ~28 500 GHz (at 7.8 GHz). Furthermore, 3 wt% H3BO3–CuO (BCu) addition can effectively lower the sintering temperature to 925°C and does not degrade the magnetodielectric properties. The chemical compatibility with silver electrode indicates that this kind of ceramics is a good candidate for the low‐temperature cofired ceramic (LTCC) application.
Phase Equilibrium Studies of “Cu2O”–SiO2–Al2O3 System in Equilibrium with Metallic Copper
Authors: Chen Mao , Zhao Baojun
Published: September 2013

Phase equilibria of the “Cu2O”–Al2O3–SiO2 system have been experimentally investigated at metallic copper saturation. High‐temperature equilibration, rapid quenching, and electron probe X‐ray microanalysis (EPMA) techniques have been used. Containerless equilibration technique has been developed to enable the phase equilibrium of this chemically reactive system to be investigated. The microstructures and compositions of all phases present in the quenched sample were measured accurately using EPMA. The isothermals between 1150°C and 1300°C have been determined in the “Cu2O”–Al2O3–SiO2 system at metallic copper saturation. The following primary phase fields were identified in the system: SiO2 (tridymite), Cu2O (cuprite), Cu2O.Al2O3 (delafossite), Al2O3 (corundum), and 3Al2O3·2SiO2 (mullite). The implications of the phase diagram on making of the copper aluminosilicate glass have been demonstrated.
Fabrication of Transparent Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 Based Ceramics by Conventional Sintering
Authors: Fujii Ichiro , Yoshida Ryoichi , Imai Takahito , Yamazoe Seiji , Wada Takahiro
Published: September 2013

Transparent 0.9Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.1PbTiO3 (PMN‐PT) based ceramics were prepared by a conventional solid‐state synthesis without using a hot‐press method. The ceramics became transparent when they were sintered in an O2 atmosphere. The optical transmission increased with decreasing diameter of the calcined powder, which was controlled by the size of zirconia ball‐milling media. Substitution of 3 mol% La for Pb in PMN‐PT further increased the optical transmission to 68% at the wavelength of 2000 nm, which was comparable to that of hot‐pressed Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐PbTiO3 based transparent ceramics.
Monitored and Modeled Correlations of Sediment and Nutrients with Chesapeake Bay Water Clarity
Authors: Wang Ping , Linker Lewis C. , Batiuk Richard A.
Published: September 2013

This article analyzes the correlations of the observed and modeled light attenuation coefficient, Kd, with in situ total suspended solids (TSS) and chlorophyll‐a concentrations in Chesapeake Bay (CB) tidal waters, and with sediment and nutrient loads from the Chesapeake watershed. Light attenuation is closely related to in situ TSS and chlorophyll‐a concentrations, however, the strength of the correlation differs among the CB segments. There are distinct differences between saline and tidal fresh segments in the main Bay, but less distinction among saline and tidal fresh segments in the tidal tributaries. The correlation between Kd with sediment and nutrient loads is complicated by the lag times of TSS and the chlorophyll‐a responses to reductions in nutrient and sediment loads from the watershed, and also due to the diverse load sources. Three sets of model sensitivity scenarios were performed with: (1) differential sediment and nutrient loads; (2) selective sediment source types; and (3) geographically isolated inputs. The model results yield similar findings as those based on observed data and provide information regarding the effect of sediment on specific water bodies. Based on the model results a method was developed to determine sediment and nutrient load reductions needed to achieve the water clarity standards of the CB segments.
The Shallow‐Water Component of the Chesapeake Bay Environmental Model Package
Authors: Cerco Carl F. , Noel Mark R. , Wang Ping
Published: September 2013

The shallow‐water component of the Chesapeake Bay Environmental Model Package emphasizes the regions of the system inside the 2‐m depth contour. The model of these regions is unified with the system‐wide model but places emphasis on locally significant components and processes, notably submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV), sediment resuspension, and their interaction with light attenuation (Ke). The SAV model is found to be most suited for computing the equilibrium distribution of perennial species. Addition of plant structure and propagation are recommended to improve representation of observed trends in SAV area. Two approaches are taken to examining shallow‐water Ke. The first compares observed and computed differences between deep‐ and shallow‐water Ke. No consistent difference in observations is noted. In the preponderance of regions examined, computed shallow‐water Ke exceeds computed deep‐water Ke. The second approach directly compares Ke measured in shallow water with modeled results. Model values are primarily lower than observed, in contrast to results in deep water where model values exceed observed. The shortfall in computed Ke mirrors a similar shortfall in computed suspended solids. Improved model representation of Ke requires process‐based investigations into suspended solids dynamics as well as increased model resolution in shallow‐water regions.
Twenty‐One‐Year Simulation of Chesapeake Bay Water Quality Using the CE‐QUAL‐ICM Eutrophication Model
Authors: Cerco Carl F. , Noel Mark R.
Published: September 2013

The CE‐QUAL‐ICM (Corps of Engineers Integrated Compartment Water Quality Model) eutrophication model was applied in a 21‐year simulation of Chesapeake Bay water quality, 1985‐2005. The eutrophication model is part of a larger model package and is forced, in part, by models of atmospheric deposition, watershed flows and loads, and hydrodynamics. Results from the model are compared with observations in multiple formats including time series plots, cumulative distribution plots, and statistical summaries. The model indicates only one long‐term trend in computed water quality: light attenuation deteriorates circa 1993 through the end of the simulation. The most significant result is the influence of physical processes, notably stratification and associated effects (e.g., anoxic volume), on computed water quality. Within the application period, physical effects are more important determinants of year‐to‐year variability in computed water quality than external loads.
Effects of adalimumab therapy in adult subjects with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis on Th17 pathway
Authors: Balato A. , Schiattarella M. , Di Caprio R. , Lembo S. , Mattii M. , Balato N. , Ayala F.
Published: September 2013

Background

Until relatively recently, psoriasis has been considered to be a mainly T helper (Th)1‐driven inflammatory disease; however, several findings have now assessed a major role for Th17 cells in its pathogenesis. Adalimumab is a biological agent that inhibits TNF‐α, a pro‐inflammatory cytokine with a pivotal role in the mechanisms of the disease.

Objective

To elucidate the in vivo effects of adalimumab therapy on Th17 pathway.

Methods

Quantitative real‐time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was used to analyse levels of expression of Th17 polarizing cytokines (IL‐23A, TGF‐β, IL‐1β, IL‐6), Th17 cytokines (IL‐17, IL‐22) as well as TNF‐α, Th1 polarizing cytokine (IFN‐α) and Th17 downstream effector mediators, such as chemokines (IL‐8, CCL‐20) in skin and peripheral blood mononuclear cells before and after 16 weeks of adalimumab therapy. Similarly, gene expression of Th17 induced mediators by keratinocytes (antimicrobial peptides: HBD‐2, S100A7) was investigated at skin level. In addition, cutaneous and plasma IL‐17 was examined by immunohistochemistry and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay respectively. Efficacy of the treatment was assessed by several clinical index scores as well as epidermal thickness reduction.

Results

Adalimumab therapy led to improvement in skin disease scores in all patients. Moreover, adalimumab treatment down‐modulated Th17 pathway at skin level. Plasma IL‐17 levels and IL‐17‐positive cells in psoriatic lesional skin were decreased by adalimumab treatment.

Conclusions

Our data highlight that the immunomodulatory activity of adalimumab is associated with considerable clinical improvements as well as a potent shut down of Th17 response in patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis.
Audiological abnormalities in patients with alopecia areata
Authors: Ucak H. , Soylu E. , Ozturk S. , Demir B. , Cicek D. , Erden I. , Akyigit A.
Published: September 2013

Background

Audiological abnormalities seen in various autoimmune disorders raises the question of whether such abnormalities also exist in alopecia areata.

Objective

This study was performed to detect possible audiological abnormalities in Alopecia areata (AA) patients.

Methods

The study population consisted of 51 patients with AA and 51 healthy controls. Autoscopic and audiometric examinations of both ears were performed in patients and controls. Audiometric examinations were performed using a pure tone audiometer in a silent cabin. Pure tone thresholds were determined for each ear at frequencies of 250–16000 Hz for air conduction.

Results

Sensorineural hypoacusis was found in 28 patients with AA (54.9%). Six of these 28 patients showed unilateral minimal hearing loss (>30 dB) at high frequencies only (4000–16 000 Hz), while 22 showed bilateral minimal hearing loss (>30 dB) at high frequencies only (4000–16 000 Hz). Hypoacusis was observed in 13 control subjects (25.4%). Sensorineural hypoacusis was significantly more frequent in AA patients than controls (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Follicular melanocytes may be an important target in the autoimmune process of AA and AA may have an effect on hearing function by affecting the melanocytes in the inner ear. Therefore, there may be a relationship between sensorineural hearing loss and the autoimmune disease, AA.
Clonal seborrheic keratosis: dermoscopic and confocal microscopy characterization
Authors: Longo C. , Zalaudek I. , Moscarella E. , Lallas A. , Piana S. , Pellacani G. , Argenziano G.
Published: September 2013

Background

The diagnosis of clonal seborrheic keratosis may be challenging clinically and histologically.

Objective

In our study, we describe the common aspects of this benign entity that show peculiar dermoscopic and confocal findings.

Methods

A total of nine clonal seborrheic keratosis were analyzed.

Results

Upon dermoscopy, it reveals the presence of globular‐like structures and sharply demarcated borders whereas confocal microscopy displays the typical intraepidermal nesting of pigmented keratinocytes that permits to have a reliable in vivo diagnosis.

Conclusions

Dermoscopy and confocal microscopy permit to in vivo diagnose this variant of seborrheic keratosis.
To what extent does g impact on conceptual, practical and social adaptive functioning in clinically referred children?
Authors: Murray A. , McKenzie K. , Murray G.
Published: September 2013

Background

Previous analyses have found variable results when evaluating the size of the association between intellectual ability and adaptive functioning in individuals with impaired function.

Methods

We assessed the association between intellectual ability measured as a latent higher‐order g and three different areas of adaptive functioning in a sample of clinically referred individuals with low IQ.

Results

Regressing g on conceptual, practical and social adaptive functioning yielded standardised regression coefficients of 0.65, 0.60 and 0.51 respectively.

Conclusions

Results suggests that even at low levels of ability, increments in g still have important consequences for human functioning. Further, the influence of g may not be equally strong across different areas of human functioning.
Computed tomographic measurements with and without myelography to characterise thoracolumbar extruded disc herniation
Authors: Buttin P. , Millet M. , Cousin S. , Carozzo C. , Cachon T. , Fau D. , Chuzel T. , Viguier E.
Published: September 2013

OBJECTIVE

To determine association between computed tomography measurements of spinal cord compression and postoperative outcome.

METHODS

A retrospective review of medical records of dogs presenting with intervertebral disease. Data were collected with a minimum of 2 years follow‐up period. Computed tomography morphometric indices, particularly the ratio of spinal cord or herniated disc to vertebral canal dimensions, were obtained from survey and myelogram computed tomographic images. The pattern of disc disease was scored as single or continuous (multiple herniated discs), and was compared to postoperative outcome.

RESULTS

Fifty‐two dogs were included. There was no significant correlation between the degree of spinal cord compression and postoperative outcome. However, postoperative outcome differed significantly between dogs with single or continuous patterns of disc disease (P=0·001). Of those with single patterns, 75% had a postoperative outcome score greater than 75% while 75% of continuous pattern cases had scores lower than 83%.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Simple observation of the pattern of disc disease as revealed by computed tomography could be used as a prognostic indicator. The outcome tends to be better for single patterns of disc disease, whereas the outcome was poor for most cases with continuous patterns.
Representations of Religious Words: Insights for Religious Priming Research
Authors: Ritter Ryan S. , Preston Jesse Lee
Published: September 2013

Researchers often expose participants to a series of words (e.g., religion, God, faith) to activate religious concepts and observe their subsequent effects on people's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This research has revealed many important effects of experimentally manipulated religious cognition in domains ranging from prosocial behavior to prejudice. However, it is not exactly clear what constitutes a “religious cognition,” and no research has yet investigated conceptual distinctions between different kinds of religious prime words. In the present research we used a card‐sorting task to examine laypeople's subjective understanding of religious prime words, and the central categories or dimensions of these religious concepts. Using multidimensional scaling, property fitting, and cluster analysis methods to analyze the proximities among the words, we find evidence for the mental representation of three relatively distinct kinds of religious concepts: agents (e.g., God, angel), spiritual/abstract (e.g., faith, belief), and institutional/concrete (e.g., shrine, scripture). Theoretical and methodological impli‐cations for religious priming research are discussed.
Religious Context and Prosociality: An Experimental Study from Valparaíso, Chile
Authors: Ahmed Ali , Salas Osvaldo
Published: September 2013

Are people more prosocial in a religious context? We addressed this question through an experiment. We randomly placed participants in the control group in a neutral location (a lecture hall), and we placed participants in the experimental group in a religious location (a chapel). The participants then took part in a one‐shot three‐person public goods game, which measured participants’ degree of cooperativeness. The results showed that participants in the experimental group cooperated significantly more than did participants in the control group. Furthermore, participants’ beliefs about other participants’ cooperativeness were more positive in the experimental group than they were in the control group. Improved expectations of others partially explained the enhanced cooperation in the religious context. We found no main or interaction effect of self‐reported religiosity in the experiment.
Novel partial 5HT3 agonist pumosetrag reduces acid reflux events in uninvestigated GERD patients after a standard refluxogenic meal: a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled pharmacodynamic study
Authors: Choung R. S. , Locke G. R. , Francis D. D. , Katzka D. , Winkle P. J. , Orr W. C. , Crowell M. D. , DeVault K. , Harmsen W. S. , Zinsmeister A. R. , Talley N. J.
Published: September 2013

Background

Low basal lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure and transient LES relaxations are major causes of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Pumosetrag, a novel selective partial 5HT3 receptor agonist, showed a promising effect on reducing reflux events in health. We aimed to evaluate the effect of pumosetrag on changes in reflux episodes, lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP), and specific symptoms in patients with GERD receiving a refluxogenic meal.

Methods

Patients with GERD, who developed heartburn and/or regurgitation after ingestion of a refluxogenic meal, were randomized to 1 of 3 dose levels of pumosetrag (0.2, 0.5, or 0.8 mg) or placebo. Before and after 7 days of treatment, patients underwent manometry, intraesophageal multichannel, intraluminal impedance and pH after a standard refluxogenic meal.

Key Results

A total of 223 patients with GERD [125 (56%) women, mean (SD) age = 36 (12) years] were enrolled. No overall treatment effects were detected for the total number of reflux episodes (acidic and weakly acidic) (p > 0.5); however, significant treatment effects (p < 0.05) on the number of acid reflux episodes were observed with lower values on pumosetrag 0.2 mg (10.8 ± 1.1), 0.5 mg (9.5 ± 1.1), and 0.8 mg (9.9 ± 1.1) compared with placebo (13.3 ± 1.1). Significant treatment effects (p < 0.05) were also observed for the percentage of time pH was <4, with less time for pumosetrag at 0.5 mg (10%) and 0.8 mg (10%) compared with placebo (16%).

Conclusions & Inferences

In GERD, the partial 5HT3 agonist pumosetrag significantly reduced the rate of acid reflux events but did not result in a significant change in LESP or symptomatic improvement over a 1‐week treatment period.
Drivers of radial growth and carbon isotope discrimination of bur oak (Quercus macrocarpa Michx.) across continental gradients in precipitation, vapour pressure deficit and irradiance
Authors: VOELKER STEVEN L. , MEINZER FREDERICK C. , LACHENBRUCH BARBARA , BROOKS J. RENÉE , GUYETTE RICHARD P.
Published: September 2013

Tree‐ring characteristics are commonly used to reconstruct climate variables, but divergence from the assumption of a single biophysical control may reduce the accuracy of these reconstructions. Here, we present data from bur oaks (Quercus macrocarpa Michx.) sampled within and beyond the current species bioclimatic envelope to identify the primary environmental controls on ring‐width indices (RWIs) and carbon stable isotope discrimination (Δ13C) in tree‐ring cellulose. Variation in Δ13C and RWI was more strongly related to leaf‐to‐air vapour pressure deficit (VPD) at the centre and western edge of the range compared with the northern and wettest regions. Among regions, Δ13C of tree‐ring cellulose was closely predicted by VPD and light responses of canopy‐level Δ13C estimated using a model driven by eddy flux and meteorological measurements (R2 = 0.96, P = 0.003). RWI and Δ13C were positively correlated in the drier regions, while they were negatively correlated in the wettest region. The strength and direction of the correlations scaled with regional VPD or the ratio of precipitation to evapotranspiration. Therefore, the correlation strength between RWI and Δ13C may be used to infer past wetness or aridity from paleo wood by determining the degree to which carbon gain and growth have been more limited by moisture or light.
Making Basic Health Care Accessible to Rural Communities: A Case Study of Kiang West District in Rural Gambia
Authors: Sanneh Edward Saja , Hu Allen H. , Njai Modou , Ceesay Omar Malleh , Manjang Buba
Published: September 2013

This study focuses on lack of access to basic health care, which is one of the hindrances to the development of the poor, and subjects them to the poverty penalty. It also focuses on contributing to the Bottom of the Pyramid in a general sense, in addition to meeting the health needs of communities where people live on less than $1 a day. Strengthened multistakeholder responses and better‐targeted, low‐cost prevention, and care strategies within health systems are suggested to address the health burdens of poverty‐stricken communities. In this study, a multistakeholder model which includes the government, World Health Organization, United Nations Children Emergency Fund, and the Medical Research Council was created to highlight the collaborative approach in rural Gambia. The result shows infant immunization and antenatal care coverage were greatly improved which contributes to the reduction in mortality. This case study also finds that strategies addressing health problems in rural communities are required to achieve ‘Millennium Development Goals’. In particular, actual community visits to satellite villages within a district (area of study) are extremely vital to making health care accessible.
UVB‐protective properties of contact lenses with intended use in photoresponsive eyelid dermatoses
Authors: DePry Jennifer , Golding Robert , Szczotka‐Flynn Loretta , Dao Harry , Baron Elma , Cooper Kevin
Published: September 2013

Background

UV‐blocking contact lenses were evaluated to determine if they could provide adequate ocular protection during narrowband UVB phototherapy treatment. Theoretical safe exposure durations for the crystalline lens, cornea and conjunctiva were determined.

Methods

A Cary 500 spectrophometer generated transmittance data for six UV‐blocking and two non‐UV‐blocking contact lenses. An IL‐1700 radiometer measured the lenses' radiation transmittance within the NB‐UVB phototherapy unit. The lenses were exposed to a 1500‐mJ/cm2 dose of radiation from a 308‐nm excimer laser to determine if the radiation would alter their protective properties. Theoretical safe exposure durations for eye structures were calculated using previous human and animal study data.

Results

All UV‐blocking contact lenses showed less than 1E‐7 W/cm2 of radiation transmittance within the narrowband phototherapy unit. The excimer laser did not significantly alter the lenses' UV‐blocking capabilities. The safe exposure durations for the cornea and crystalline lens were greater than 11 min with UV‐blocking lenses, and that for the unprotected conjunctiva was approximately 11 s.

Conclusion

Some UV‐blocking contact lenses potentially provide sufficient ocular protection during narrowband UVB phototherapy treatment, as the crystalline lens and cornea are adequately protected should a patient open his or her eyes for a short time.
The Design and Introduction of Product Lines When Consumer Valuations are Uncertain
Authors: Biyalogorsky Eyal , Koenigsberg Oded
Published: September 2013

This article presents a model of the design and introduction of a product line when the firm is uncertain about consumer valuations for the products. We find that product line introduction strategy depends on this uncertainty. Specifically, under low levels of uncertainty the firm introduces both models during the first period; under higher levels of uncertainty, the firm prefers sequential introduction and delays design of the second product until the second period. Under intermediate levels of uncertainty the firm's first product should be of lower quality than one produced by a myopic firm that does not take product line effects into consideration. We find that when the firm introduces a product sequentially, the strategy might depend on realized demand. For example, if realized demand is high, the firm's second product should be a higher‐end model; if demand turns out to be low, the firm's second product should be a lower‐end model or replace the first product with a lower‐end model.
Spatiotemporal characterization of citrus postbloom fruit drop inBrazil and its relationship to pathogen dispersal
Authors: Silva‐Junior G. J. , Spósito M. B. , Marin D. R. , Ribeiro‐Junior P. J. , Amorim L.
Published: September 2013

Citrus postbloom fruit drop (PFD) is caused byColletotrichum acutatumandC. gloeosporioides. These pathogens attack the flowers and cause premature fruit drop and the retention of fruit calyces. This study was designed to characterize the spatial and temporal dynamics ofPFDin commercial citrus‐growing areas to better understand the disease spread. Experiments were carried out in three young orchards (500 trees each) in two municipalities in Sao Paulo State,Brazil. Symptoms ofPFDon the flowers and presence of persistent calyces were assessed in each of three orchards for three years. Logistic, Gompertz and monomolecular models were fitted to the incidence data over time from the trees with symptoms. The spatial pattern of diseased trees was characterized by a dispersion index and by Taylor′s power law. An autologistic model was used for the spatiotemporal analysis. The logistic model provided the best fit to the disease incidence data, which had a fast progress rate of 0·53 per day. During the early epidemic ofPFD, the spatial pattern of diseased trees was random, which suggested that inoculum spread was due to mechanisms other than rain splash. As the disease incidence increased (up to 12·6%), the spatial pattern of diseased trees became aggregated. The rapid rate of disease progress and the distribution ofPFDsuggest that dispersal of the pathogen is possibly related to a mechanism other than splash dispersal, which is more typical of other fruit diseases caused byColletotrichumspp.
Buddhist Visual Worlds I: The Eyes and Ways of Seeing
Authors: Hatchell Chris
Published: September 2013

Buddhist literature contains a number of interrelated discussions of seeing, beginning with the “four sights” that inspired Siddhartha's renunciation, and including a variety of epistemological traditions that investigate the act of seeing, along with meditative practices of looking and visualization, ritual uses of visual arts, and literary metaphorical references to light. As a basis for understanding Buddhist visual worlds, this article provides a basic typology of Buddhist “eyes,” and presents some major Buddhist discussions about (1) the function of the ordinary eyes, (2) ethical dimensions of the eyes, (3) the attainment of supernatural eyes, and (4) types of eyes that are involved in Buddhist soteriology.
Educational Inheritance and the Distribution of Occupations: Evidence from South Africa
Authors: Keswell Malcolm , Girdwood Sarah , Leibbrandt Murray
Published: September 2013

We analyze the role of educational opportunity in shaping inequality in the distribution of occupations in the long run. We use the timing of political events in the history of the struggle to end Apartheid to devise an identification strategy that permits a causal interpretation of the role of educational opportunity. We find evidence that educational opportunity has a strong conditioning effect on the distribution of occupations in steady state. In particular, African female children who inherit the same level of educational opportunity as their parents are 6 percentage points more likely to be in the bottom of the occupation distribution than if they were exposed to better educational opportunities. An alternative identification strategy based on matching on the probability of educational persistence suggests that this figure is approximately 10 percent for younger cohorts of African female children.
Association between birth weight and neuromotor performance: A twin study
Authors: Lopes A. A. T. , Tani G. , Katzmarzyk P. T. , Thomis M. A. , Maia J. A. R.
Published: September 2013

Studies have shown important associations between low birth weight (BW), a variety of morbidities, and reduced motor performance. Using a twin sample, this study aimed to verify (a) the magnitude of the association between BW and neuromotor performance (NMP); (b) if the NMP of twins is within the normal range; and (c) if monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins' intra‐pair similarities in NMP are of equal magnitude. We sampled 191 twins (78 MZ; 113 DZ distinguished through their DNA), aged 8.9 ± 3.1 years with an average BW of 2246.3 ± 485.4 g; gestational characteristics and sports practices were also assessed. The Zurich Neuromotor test battery, comprising five main tasks, was used; Twins NMP assessments were highly reliable (intra‐rater reliability: 0.76–0.99). BW accounted for up to 11% of the total variance of NMP across the zygosity groups. Between 32.7% and 76.9% of children were below the 10th percentile for tasks requiring timing of performance (purely motor task, adaptive fine motor task, dynamic, and static balance), while less than 6.4% of children were below the 10th percentile for associated movements. MZ twins NMP intraclass correlations showed greater similarity than DZ twins in three of the five tasks, suggesting the importance of genetic factors in NMP.
Standardization of skin cleansing in vivo: part II. Validation of a newly developed Automated Cleansing Device (ACiD)
Authors: Sonsmann F. K. , Strunk M. , Gediga K. , Schliemann S. , Seyfarth F. , Elsner P. , Diepgen T. L. , Kutz G. , John S. M.
Published: September 2013

Background

Skin cleansers for occupational use are manufactured for different types and degrees of soiling without common, legally binding requirements for product testing. This leads to different, manufacturer‐specific test methods and a lack of comparable information on skin cleansing products.

Objectives

The aim of this investigation was to validate a newly developed standardized automated cleansing device (ACiD) for in vivo evaluation of industrial skin cleansers.

Methods

Two ACiD were tested regarding the intra‐ and inter‐device specific reproducibility of test results.

Results

Skin cleansing process carried out by the three independent washing modules which constitute an ACiD‐unit and two separate ACiD‐units led to highly comparable results. There was no significant difference between the washing modules or between the two separate ACiD‐units detected. Only different parameter settings resulted in significantly different detergency.

Conclusions

Intra‐ and inter‐device specific test results of an in vivo model of skin cleansing using the automated cleansing device (ACiD) were reproducible. The long‐term aim is a standardized classification of occupational skin cleansing products comparing their skin cleansing effectiveness in relation to their skin irritancy. This might then provide the basis for a rational specific product selection by consumers and may be used as a tool for future product development by manufacturers.
The Arabidopsis calmodulin‐like protein, CML39, functions during early seedling establishment
Authors: Bender Kyle W. , Rosenbaum Daniel M. , Vanderbeld Barbara , Ubaid Midhat , Snedden Wayne A.
Published: September 2013

During Ca2+ signal transduction, Ca2+‐binding proteins known as Ca2+ sensors function to decode stimulus‐specific Ca2+ signals into downstream responses. Plants possess extended families of unique Ca2+ sensors termed calmodulin‐like proteins (CMLs) whose cellular roles are not well understood. CML39 encodes a predicted Ca2+ sensor whose expression is strongly increased in response to diverse external stimuli. In the present study, we explored the biochemical properties of recombinant CML39, and used a reverse genetics approach to investigate its physiological role. Our data indicate that Ca2+ binding by CML39 induces a conformational change in the protein that results in an increase in exposed‐surface hydrophobicity, a property that is consistent with its predicted function as a Ca2+ sensor. Loss‐of‐function cml39 mutants resemble wild‐type plants under normal growth conditions but exhibit persistent arrest at the seedling stage if grown in the absence of sucrose or other metabolizable carbon sources. Under short‐day conditions, cml39 mutants display increased sucrose‐induced hypocotyl elongation. When grown in the dark, cml39 mutants show impaired hypocotyl elongation in the absence of sucrose. Promoter–reporter data indicate that CML39 expression is prominent in the apical hook in dark‐grown seedlings. Collectively, our data suggest that CML39 functions in Arabidopsis as a Ca2+ sensor that plays an important role in the transduction of light signals that promote seedling establishment.
Impact of Bolus Dosing versus Continuous Infusion of Piperacillin and Tazobactam on the Development of Antimicrobial Resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Felton T. W. , Goodwin J. , O'Connor L. , Sharp A. , Gregson L. , Livermore J. , Howard S. J. , Neely M. N. , Hope W. W.
Published: September 2013

Management of nosocomial pneumonia is frequently complicated by bacterial resistance. Extended infusions of beta-lactams are increasingly being used to improve clinical outcomes. However, the impact of this strategy on the emergence of antimicrobial resistance is not known. A hollow-fiber infection model with
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(PAO1) was used. Pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles of piperacillin-tazobactam similar to those in humans were simulated over 5 days. Three dosages of piperacillin-tazobactam were administered over 0.5 h or 4 h, with redosing every 8 h. Two initial bacterial densities were investigated (∼10
4
CFU/ml and ∼10
7
CFU/ml). The time courses of the total bacterial population and the resistant subpopulation were determined. All data were described using a mathematical model, which was then used to define the relationship between drug concentrations, bacterial killing, and emergence of piperacillin resistance. There was logarithmic growth in controls in the initial 24 h, reaching a plateau of ∼9 log
10
CFU/ml. Bacterial killing following administration of piperacillin via bolus dosing and that after extended infusions were similar. For the lower initial bacterial density, trough total plasma piperacillin concentration/MIC ratios of 3.4 and 10.4 for bolus and extended-infusion regimens, respectively, were able to suppress the emergence of piperacillin resistance. For the higher initial bacterial density, all regimens were associated with progressive growth of a resistant subpopulation. A stratified approach, according to bacterial density, is required to treat patients with nosocomial pneumonia. Antimicrobial monotherapy may be sufficient for some patients. However, for patients with a high bacterial burden, alternative therapeutic strategies are required to maximize bacterial killing and prevent antimicrobial resistance.
Novel Organization of the Arginine Catabolic Mobile Element and Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome
mec
Composite Island and Its Horizontal Transfer between Distinct Staphylococcus aureus Genotypes
Authors: Sabat Artur J. , Köck Robin , Akkerboom Viktoria , Hendrix Ron , Skov Robert L. , Becker Karsten , Friedrich Alexander W.
Published: September 2013

In this study, 425 methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) isolates recovered in the Dutch-German Euregio were investigated for the presence of the arginine catabolic mobile element (ACME). Sequence analysis by whole-genome sequencing revealed an entirely new organization of the ACME-staphylococcal cassette chromosome
mec
composite island (SCC
mec
-CI), with truncated ACME type II located downstream of SCC
mec
. An identical nucleotide sequence of ACME-SCC
mec
-CI was found in two distinct MRSA lineages (t064-ST8 and t002-ST5), which has not been reported previously in
S. aureus
.