bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Awareness and attitudes towards eye donation among medical and allied health students in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Showail Mahmood , AlAmoudi Turki A. , Basalem Esraa , Alshebl Khalid , Almalki Nawaf Meshal , Al Matrafi Abdullah , Ashour Mohammed
Published: May 2024

Background

Many national studies in Saudi Arabia have revealed a lack of knowledge about eye donation. The current study assessed awareness and attitudes towards eye donation among health faculty students in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It aims to increase their awareness as future healthcare providers are expected to raise general awareness to attain more local corneal donations.

Methods

A cross-sectional study including 1,060 health faculty students was conducted at King Abdulaziz University. Data were collected through an online questionnaire that covered participants’ demographics, academic year, knowledge, and attitudes regarding eye donation.

Results

Thirty-five percent of students had heard about eye donation, with the most common sources of information being social media (29%) and health workers (24%). Most respondents, 61% (n = 643), indicated willingness to donate their eyes after death. Of these respondents, 93% (n = 986), 6.8% (n = 72), and 0.2% (n = 2) had poor, fair, and good knowledge levels, respectively. A total of 66% (n = 696) and 34% (n = 364) had negative and positive attitudes, respectively.

Conclusion

Students in this study showed low levels of knowledge and negative attitudes about eye donation. Students should be adequately educated about the significance of eye donation.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of the AP2/ERF gene family in loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.)
Authors: Ye Peiqi , Che Xiaoliang , Liu Yang , Zeng Ming , Guo Wenbing , Long Yongbin , Liu Tianyi , Wang Zhe
Published: May 2024

The loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) is one of the most profitable forest species worldwide owing to its quick growth, high wood yields, and strong adaptability. The AP2/ERF gene family plays a widespread role in the physiological processes of plant defense responses and the biosynthesis of metabolites. Nevertheless, there are no reports on this gene family in loblolly pine (P. taeda). In this study, a total of 303 members of the AP2/ERF gene family were identified. Through multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis, they were classified into four subfamilies, including AP2 (34), RAV (17), ERF (251), and Soloist (1). An analysis of the conservation domains, conserved motifs, and gene structure revealed that every PtAP2/ERF transcription factor (TF) had at least one AP2 domain. While evolutionary conservation was displayed within the same subfamilies, the distribution of conserved domains, conserved motifs, and gene architectures varied between subfamilies. Cis-element analysis revealed abundant light-responsive elements, phytohormone-responsive elements, and stress-responsive elements in the promoter of the PtAP2/ERF genes. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses of potential target genes showed that the AP2/ERF gene family might play a critical role in plant growth and development, the response to environmental stresses, and metabolite biosynthesis. Utilizing quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), we examined the expression patterns of 10 randomly selected genes from Group IX after 6 h of treatments with mechanical injury, ethephon (Eth), and methyl jasmonate (MeJA). The AP2/ERF gene family in the loblolly pine was systematically analyzed for the first time in this study, offering a theoretical basis for exploring the functions and applications of AP2/ERF genes.
Improving plant miRNA-target prediction with self-supervised k-mer embedding and spectral graph convolutional neural network
Authors: Zhang Weihan , Zhang Ping , Sun Weicheng , Xu Jinsheng , Liao Liao , Cao Yunpeng , Han Yuepeng
Published: May 2024

Deciphering the targets of microRNAs (miRNAs) in plants is crucial for comprehending their function and the variation in phenotype that they cause. As the highly cell-specific nature of miRNA regulation, recent computational approaches usually utilize expression data to identify the most physiologically relevant targets. Although these methods are effective, they typically require a large sample size and high-depth sequencing to detect potential miRNA-target pairs, thereby limiting their applicability in improving plant breeding. In this study, we propose a novel miRNA-target prediction framework named kmerPMTF (k-mer-based prediction framework for plant miRNA-target). Our framework effectively extracts the latent semantic embeddings of sequences by utilizing k-mer splitting and a deep self-supervised neural network. We construct multiple similarity networks based on k-mer embeddings and employ graph convolutional networks to derive deep representations of miRNAs and targets and calculate the probabilities of potential associations. We evaluated the performance of kmerPMTF on four typical plant datasets: Arabidopsis thaliana, Oryza sativa, Solanum lycopersicum, and Prunus persica. The results demonstrate its ability to achieve AUPRC values of 84.9%, 91.0%, 80.1%, and 82.1% in 5-fold cross-validation, respectively. Compared with several state-of-the-art existing methods, our framework achieves better performance on threshold-independent evaluation metrics. Overall, our study provides an efficient and simplified methodology for identifying plant miRNA-target associations, which will contribute to a deeper comprehension of miRNA regulatory mechanisms in plants.
Unveiling the Veil of Silence: Culture, Secrecy, and Pastoral Care in Botswana's Naomi/Laban Showers
Authors: Madigele Tshenolo
Published: May 2024

Botswana's cherished cultural tradition, the Naomi/Laban showers, conceals a pervasive culture of silence concerning family matters, secrecy, and gender roles. Employing qualitative research methods like interviews, participant observations, and document analysis, this study explores the multifaceted impact of this culture of silence. It delves into the cultural and symbolic significance of draping a white shawl or blanket during these showers, signifying a vow of silence. Additionally, it investigates how this culture of silence shapes family dynamics, communication, and gender roles within Botswana's socio-cultural context. The role of pastoral caregivers and the Christian church in navigating this silence and providing support is also examined. Balancing the preservation of cultural traditions with addressing contemporary challenges is a central theme. This research aims to uncover pastoral care strategies that encourage healthy communication, gender equality, and family unity while respecting cultural norms. It seeks to deepen our understanding of the intricate relationship between culture, secrecy, and pastoral care during Naomi/Laban showers. Keywords: Culture of Silence, Naomi/Laban Showers, Pastoral Care, Gender Roles, Family Communication
Estimates and predictors of alcohol-related harm to intimate partners in Australia An analysis of a nationally representative survey
Authors: Tanyos Amany , Jiang Jason (Heng) , Jenkinson Rebecca , Laslett Anne-Marie
Published: May 2024

Aims:  This study explores the prevalence and predictors reported in 2019 by men and women of alcohol-related intimate partner violence (ARIPV), that is, verbal abuse, physical abuse, and being put in fear by intimate partners, when partners were under the influence of alcohol.
Methods: Secondary data analysis of the 2019 Australia’s cross-sectional National Drug Strategy Household Survey included 22,015 respondents aged 14 years or older (9,804 men, and 12,211 women). The prevalence of ARIPV and each type of ARIPV (verbal abuse, physical abuse, and being put in fear) in the past year is described, and the predictors of all are analysed using chi-square tests and logistic regressions, overall and separately for men and women.
Results: An estimated 3.4% of the Australian adult population (4.7% women, 2.1% men) reported ARIPV in 2019. The prevalence of ARIPV was higher among the participants who were women, middle-aged (35-44 years), had a certificate or diploma, were less advantaged, were divorced, separated, or widowed, single with dependents, living in more regional, and remote areas, and undertook heavy episodic drinking (HED) weekly or less often. Age, marital status, household composition, and weekly, monthly, or ever HED predicted ARIPV for women, while higher education levels and weekly or monthly HED were significant for men.
Discussion and conclusions: Women were twice as likely to report intimate partner violence (IPV) from their male partner when they were under the influence of alcohol, as were men. The findings underline that interventions are needed to address IPV from intoxicated partners.
Studies on Creation of Operational Range of Soil Fertility to Evolve Fertilizer Prescription Equations under Soil Test Crop Response Correlation Studies on Rainfed Bt Cotton
Authors: Rajammal, T Sherene Jenita , Maragatham S. , Santhi R.
Published: May 2024

To derive fertilizer prescription equations for rainfed Bt cotton within the framework of Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) studies, a meticulously designed gradient experiment was executed at the esteemed Cotton Research Station located in Perambalur district, Tamil Nadu, India. Employing a targeted yield methodology, the investigation centered on the cultivation of fodder sorghum as the exhaustive crop during the kharif season.
Adhering to an inductive-cum-yield target approach, the experimental plot was meticulously partitioned into three equitably-sized strips, each delineating a distinct fertility gradient. These gradients were meticulously established through the application of varying fertilizer regimes: N0P0K0, N1P1K1, and N2P2K2. Notably, the recommended fertilizer regimen (N1P1K1) encompassed precise quantities of essential nutrients, specifically 60 kg ha-1 of nitrogen (N), 345 kg ha-1 of phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5), and 96 kg ha-1 of potassium oxide (K2O).
Fodder sorghum emerged as the strategic choice for the exhaustive crop, strategically cultivated to expedite the transformation of applied fertilizers within the soil matrix, leveraging both plant and microbial processes. The overarching objective of this methodological approach was to establish a discernible operational range of soil fertility across the designated fertility strips. This was meticulously evaluated through meticulous analyses of variations in fodder yield uptake and pertinent soil test values.
Exploring the Role of Religious Studies in Developing Moral Values among Secondary Schools Learners in the Northern Region of Lesotho
Authors: Kurata Lehlohonolo
Published: May 2024

Similar to many other countries, Lesotho has experienced growing concerns regarding moral decay among youth in recent years. This concern could be attributed to various factors, such as rapid socio-economic changes, advancements in technology, and shifting societal norms. Consequently, negative consequences have arisen, including drug abuse, disrespect for constituted authority, and disengagement from academics among learners. The study therefore intents to explore the efficacy of religious studies in addressing moral erosion and developing ethical behaviour to ensure its effective implementation and impact. This study adopts the Cognitive Dissonance Theory as a framework to investigate the potential of religious studies in secondary schools as a means to develop ethical behaviour and address the increase in moral decay among learners. Through purposive sampling, six teachers from six member schools of the religious studies association in the northern region of Lesotho were selected to participate in semi-structured interviews. The findings of the study indicate that moral decay among learners is primarily influenced by factors such as poverty, lack of parental guidance, limited access to education, and dysfunctional family structures. Furthermore, the study reveals that religious studies content and various teaching approaches have the potential to cultivate moral values and counteract moral decadence among learners. The study recommends that teachers receive continuous professional development and support to enhance their pedagogical skills in effectively delivering moral education through religious studies. Moral instruction curriculum rather than religious studies curriculum should be introduced. The curriculum should accommodate all religions’ moral precepts.
Local Management in the Varietal Diversity of Rainfed Rice (Oryza glaberrima) from Goh-Djiboua and Mountains Districts in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Aurèle Aka Boigny Ange , Ysidor Konan N’Guessan , Marius Biego Godi Henri
Published: May 2024

The awareness of farming practices regarding the varietal diversity management of cultivated crops is essential for setting up an in-situ preservation strategy. The objective of the current work was to probe the varietal diversity status of the rainfed rice and its management design in farming conditions. The study was implemented from Goh-Djiboua and Mountain Districts as significant locations for rainfed rice production in Côte d’Ivoire, through descriptive investigation at field led from 450 local farmers of traditional rainfed rice varieties. Data on the anthropological, production, and post-harvest preservation of the traditional rice varieties were collected.
The investigation evidenced the rice production as a gender activity accounting 58.5% men against 41.5% women. The most produced traditional rice varieties are spelled Danané (20.22%) and Danané fowl (17.80%). The rice seeds mainly result from self-production by the farmers investigated (91.3%), especially deriving from traditional varieties (96.6%). The cultivated lands are below 1 ha acreage for most farmers (63.1%) and are worked for auto-consumption needs (99.8%). Besides the survey exhibited four storage structures, most significant of which are the granaries (79.4%). Further attempts focusing nutritional and technological advantages of the traditional rice varieties could enhance their spreading in local culture of rainfed rice.
Effect of Longterm Fertilization and Manuring on Nutritional Quality of Maize Grain
Authors: Mamatha Bommireddy , Kadalli G. G , Manjunath Raghuveer , Mudigiri Chandana , Vilakar Kayitha
Published: May 2024

A study on Effect of long term fertilization and manuring on soil quality and nutritional quality of maize (Zea mays L.) under finger millet-maize cropping system was carried out in LTFE plots which has been in progress since 1986 at UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru. Eleven treatments were laid in randomized block design with three replications. The hybrid maize was grown in LTFE plots during Rabi 2021-2022 (35th crop cycle) and qualities of grain were assessed. Application of 100 per cent NPK+ FYM+ lime recorded significantly higher grain quality viz., geometric mean diameter (7.63 mm), bulk density (791 kg m-3), 1000 grain mass (444.10 g), colour (L*72.91, a*4.68, b*27.48), crude protein (10.35%), ash (1.73%), moisture (8.19%) and crude fibre (1.85%). Inorganic fertilization alone, 100% N, 100% NP and control treatments recorded poor quality grain of maize. The conjoint use of organic manures along with chemical fertilizers in balanced form is essential to maintain good soil quality and for quality maize production.
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in a Rural Community of Nigeria
Authors: Stephen Abebe E. , Flourish Obaseki I. , Naomi Dongo E. , Perpetual Idialu. O. , David Uhomoibhi O. , Endurance Omokaro J. , Ehis Ehizuelen G. , Meshach Osejele I. , Cyril Uangbaoje A. , Albert Ugwoke O. , Jeremiah Okpu U. , Osazuwa Ighodaro T. , Idemudia Ogedegbe S. , Joshua Jerhovwen , Caleb Okolo C. , Precious Akhaine J.
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Vaccine hesitancy is a major challenge to public health, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This research was aimed at examining COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in the Idumebo Community, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria, to understand the factors influencing vaccine acceptance and refusal.
Objective: The primary objective of this research was to determine the level of knowledge, uptake, and reasons for vaccine hesitancy among residents of Idumebo, Irrua Edo State. By exploring these factors, the study aimed to provide insights that can inform targeted interventions to improve vaccine acceptance rates in the community.
Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done among residents of age 18-60 years in Idumebo, utilizing structured questionnaires to gather data on socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of COVID-19, and attitudes towards vaccination. Ethical considerations were prioritized, with institutional and community consent obtained before data collection.
Results: The findings showed a high degree of awareness of COVID-19 among participants, with a majority acknowledging the contagious nature of the disease. However, vaccine hesitancy was observed among a subset of respondents, with reasons ranging from concerns about safety and efficacy to misinformation and mistrust. These results underscore the need for targeted educational campaigns and community engagement to address vaccine hesitancy effectively.
Conclusion: It was concluded that the study brought to light the complex dynamics of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in the Idumebo Community, revealing the necessity of tailored interventions to address barriers to vaccine acceptance. By fostering a better understanding of community attitudes and concerns, public health authorities can develop strategies to enhance vaccine uptake and combat the spread of COVID-19 in the region.
Application of Nanotechnology in Sericulture: A Review
Authors: G. Dukare Pradip , M. R. Pavithra, , D. Thrilekha , S Ashrith. , Mala P. Harshita , A. S Bagde
Published: May 2024

Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as promising tools for enhancing mulberry cultivation and the performance of silkworms, crucial for silk production. Mulberry, a vital plant for silk production, demands proper nutrient management for optimal growth and leaf production. Application of NPs, particularly zinc oxide and iron oxide, has shown significant improvements in mulberry growth parameters. Furthermore, NPs have demonstrated positive effects on silkworm larvae, enhancing feed efficiency and growth parameters, leading to better cocoon traits. Silkworms fed with NPs-treated mulberry leaves exhibited increased body weight, cocoon weight, and silk filament characteristics. Additionally, NPs have shown promise in enhancing silkworm reproduction and fecundity while conferring resistance against diseases like BmNPV. Various NPs, including TiO2, silver and chitosan, have exhibited antibacterial properties against silkworm pathogens, thereby contributing to disease prevention. Overall, NPs offer a sustainable and effective approach to enhance mulberry cultivation, improve silkworm performance and mitigate disease risks, thus potentially revolutionizing silk production practices.
A Case Report on Plasma Cell Leukemia Presenting as a Chest Wall Mass
Authors: Zaghba Nahid , Benmerzouq Zineb , Benjelloun Hanane , Chaanoun Khadija , Yassine Najiba
Published: May 2024

Plasma cell leukemia (PCL) is an uncommon neoplasm of plasma cells with an aggressive clinical course and a poor outcome, even with the current standard of care. It can occur either de novo (primary PCL) or as a progression of multiple myeloma (MM). This disease has unique diagnostic criteria, but certain genetic markers and clinical features may overlap with multiple myeloma (MM). Due to the low prevalence of PCL, guidelines on its management are extrapolated from the management of MM and are based on small retrospective studies and case reports/series. We report the case of a sixty-nine-year-old man referred to the hematology department for the diagnosis of pPCL, revealed by thoracic plasmacytomas mimicking a thoracic neoplasm. The diagnostic approach, management, and outcomes of PCL are discussed.
Integrated Nutrient Management in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.): An Overview
Authors: Mohan Jag , Negi Neha , Bharti Babita
Published: May 2024

Wheat is one of the major staple crops in the country in terms of both production and consumption. It is the nation's second-most significant food, after maize, in terms of calories consumed. Nutritious characteristics of wheat farming have been extensively researched and extensively recorded. Research being conducted in several parts of Ethiopia has shown that applying chemical fertilisers to achieve all the necessary nutrients has a detrimental effect on soil health, resulting in yields that are not sustainable. Therefore; there is a need to improve nutrient supply system in terms of integrated nutrient management involving the use of chemical fertilizers in conjunction with organic manures coupled with input through biological processes. However, the impact of important nutrients on crop physiology and their function on growth, quality, yield, and yield components of cereal crops—particularly wheat—are hardly in this level. Above all, the administration of essential nutrients to plants in the right amount and light ratio for a particular soil crop condition plays a crucial role in balanced fertilizer's ability to improve wheat production's yield, quality, and other characteristics. In association with this, research on integrated nutrient management in wheat and its effect on growth, yield, yield components and quality parameters are significance.
Long Memory Time-series Model (ARFIMA) Based Modelling of Jute Prices in the Samsi Market of Malda District, West Bengal
Authors: Sahu Chowa Ram , Basak Satyananda , Gupta Deb Sankar
Published: May 2024

The objective of this paper is modeling and forecasting the weekly jute prices of Samsi market in the Malda district of West Bengal in the presence of long memory process. The long memory behavior of series is investigated by the ACF plot and Hurst R/S analysis. A fractionally integrated autoregressive moving-average (ARssFIMA) model is fitted using 668 weekly data (January 2009-November 2022). This study shows the efficiencies of the Hurst exponent, GPH, Smoothed periodogram, Local Whittle, and Wavelet methods used to estimate the fractional difference parameter in the ARFIMA model. Furthermore, we compared the forecasting abilities of the ARFIMA and ARIMA models. The results show that long memory is present in the jute price series. The models selected according to each method are ARFIMA (3,0.348,0), ARFIMA (3,0.291,1), ARFIMA (2,0.487,0), ARFIMA (3,0.461,0), ARFIMA (2,0.311,0), and ARIMA (2,1,1) on the basis of minimum AIC and BIC using 534 in-sample data. Finally, the wavelet method based ARFIMA (2,0.311,0) model is found to be the best optimal model in terms of MAE, RMSE, and MAPE criteria using 134 out-of-sample data. A comparative study indicates that the forecasting performance of the ARFIMA model is strongly better than that of the ARIMA model in this regard.
Trends in cervical cancer screening in the state of Mato Grosso from 2014 to 2021 / Tendência do Rastreamento do câncer de colo uterino em Mato Grosso, período de 2014 a 2021
Authors: Oliveira Jânia Cristiane de Souza , Almeida Débora Morais , de Mattos Magda , Da Silva Michele Salles , Andrade Amanda Cristina de Souza
Published: May 2024

Objetivo: analisar a tendência do rastreamento do câncer de colo uterino em Mato Grosso, entre 2014 a 2021. Método: estudo descritivo, quantitativo, realizado a partir do DATASUS, com mulheres que realizaram o exame citopatológico em Mato Grosso, no período de 2014 a 2021, por meio de análise de regressão linear. Resultados: a partir da análise dos dados foi observado tendência de estabilidade no período para as variáveis analisadas. A faixa etária que mais realizou o exame foi a de 25 a 64 anos, o principal motivo do exame foi o rastreamento do câncer de colo uterino, a maioria das amostras foram adequadas, a maior parte dos exames apresentou representação de zona de transformação e a maior parte dos exames foi entregue com mais de 30 dias. Conclusão: devido a esta estabilidade observada, necessita-se rever a política de atenção oncológica para as mulheres no estado quanto ao câncer de colo uterino.
Alternatives to Black– Scholes Formulation in Finance
Authors: Kijima Masaaki , Tanaka Keiichi
Published: November 2010

This chapter provides various alternatives to the Black–Scholes model for the pricing of derivative securities. The purpose of such extensions is to make pricing models more realistic in order to incorporate the so‐called smile effect and volatility clustering. Stochastic volatility and interest‐rate models as well as models with Levy processes are explained in detail.
Methods of Risks Estimation and Analysis of Business Processes
Authors: Balakrishnan N. , Naumov A. , Morgunov D.
Published: November 2010

In the paper the model of business processes of a data‐flow type and operations above them are entered into reviewing. The methods of the analysis of business processes on effectiveness are offered. The methods of an risk estimation and analysis of business processes are considered also. The task of risk estimation and using it on practice in managing economic systems with using processing approach is investigated. Conditional‐internal and conditional‐external risks are considered and proved their properties. Metrics of risks estimation are given as highest comparative and absolute losses, average losses etc. Inefficiency of using risk estimation procedures by dispersion and quantiles is shown. Approaches to the business‐processes indicators optimization proposed and investigated in the area “risk‐profit” (“risk‐indicator”). This optimization is realized by using utility function as multicriterion problem. Functional, stochastic dependences between risks are shown, that do not allow to optimize risks only (separate from indicators). The task of risk managing in economic systems is work out in complex with the tasks of it's analysis, modeling and optimization. The problem of factor analysis in deterministic form is investigated too.
Models for Bid Arrivals and Bidder Arrivals in Online Auctions
Authors: Russo Ralph P. , Shyamalkumar Nariankadu D. , Shmueli Galit , Jank Wolfgang
Published: November 2010

The arrival process of bidders and bids in online auctions is important for studying and modeling supply and demand in the online marketplace. Whereas bid arrivals are observable in online auction data, bidder behavior is typically not. A popular assumption in the online auction literature is that a homogeneous Poisson bidder arrival process is a reasonable approximation. This approximation underlies theoretical derivations, statistical models and simulations used in field studies. However, empirical research has shown that the process of bid arrivals is far from homogeneous, as it features early and last‐moment bidding, as well as a self‐similar structure. In this chapter we discuss two types of models: Descriptive models for bid arrivals that were derived based on features of real bid data in online auctions, and models for bidder arrivals that lead to the bid arrival process. The model for the bid arrival process, calledthe BARISTA process, can generate different intensities at different stages of the auctions. We discuss its properties, show how to simulate bid arrivals from it, and how to estimate its parameters. We then describe two bidder behavior models that lead to versions of the BARISTA process. Model adequacy and performance are illustrated via simulation and real data from eBay.
Pricing Foreign Exchange Options with Stochastic Volatility
Authors: Ahlip Rehez
Published: November 2010

An exhaustive survey of research on pricing foreign exchange options with stochastic volatility and stochastic interest rates is presented in this article. The article also includes contributions to pricing of currency options with fixed volatility and deterministic interest rates, domestic and foreign, and in a systematic way extend to results obtained for cases which include stochastic volatility and stochastic interest rates. Since the literature in pricing foreign exchange currency option is quite extensive, the article considers some of the more important contributions.
MOF Processing by Electrospinning for Functional Textiles
Authors: Rose Marcus , Böhringer Bertram , Jolly Marc , Fischer Roland , Kaskel Stefan
Published: November 2010

We present the use of electrospinning for the immobilization of metal‐organic framework particles in fibers and the production of homogeneous textile‐like layers. HKUST‐1 and MIL‐100(Fe) are stable during the electrospinning process from a suspension. Excellent high loadings of up to 80 wt% of MOF in the polymeric fibers are achieved. The total accessibility of the inner surface is guaranteed for adsorption processes due to very small fiber diameters in comparison to the particle size. This method provides the know‐how for the immobilization of MOFs on flexible, textile‐like substrates. Applications such as gas purification or removal of toxic compounds in protective clothing are conceivable.
Clinical evaluation of a bioresorbable implant for medialization of the middle turbinate in sinus surgery
Authors: Grisel Jedidiah J. , Atkins James H. , Fleming Daniel J. , Kuppersmith Ronald B.
Published: November 2010

Background

During endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), postoperative lateralization of the middle turbinate can lead to scarring and obstruction of key drainage pathways, including the osteomeatal complex. The technique of suturing the middle turbinate to the nasal septum to enhance exposure can be difficult and time consuming. This study presents the first clinical results using the Middle Turbinate Implant (MTI), a device composed of absorbable copolymer polylactide‐co‐glycolide and intended to medialize the middle turbinate during surgical procedures such as ESS.

Methods

The trial included 22 implantations (21 successful implantations) on 14 subjects (6 unilateral and 8 bilateral implantations). The primary outcome measure was the position of the middle turbinate at 1, 2, and 4 weeks postoperatively. The extent of tissue reaction at the site of implantation was also evaluated.

Results

At 1, 2, and 4 weeks postoperatively, 100% of the middle turbinates were held medially or in the neutral position with no significant synechiae present. At 1, 2, and 4 weeks postoperatively, there was either no (95%, 90%, and 95%) or mild (5%, 10%, and 5%) tissue reaction at the site of implantation. No complications were noted during implantation.

Conclusion

The use of the bioresorbable MTI appears to be a safe and effective method of medializing the middle turbinate during ESS. © 2011 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.
Irrigation penetration of nasal delivery systems: A cadaver study
Authors: Abadie Wesley M. , McMains Kevin C. , Weitzel Erik Kent
Published: November 2010

Background

To determine the sinus penetration potential of several commercially available irrigation systems in maximally operated sinus cavities; cadaveric study in a tertiary care center.

Methods

Seven fresh cadaver heads with brains removed were maximally dissected to include a Draf III frontal sinusotomy, wide maxillary antrostomy, and complete sphenoethmoidectomy. Drill‐holes (4 mm) were created to allow visualization of the irrigations from within the respective sinus cavity. Seven commercially available irrigation systems were then tested according to manufacturer recommendation, and the data recorded using an ordinal scale for comparison.

Results

Among the 3 atomized particle delivery systems tested, the squeeze atomizer took 1.15 attempts, the pump atomizer took 1.85 attempts, and the mechanized atomizer required 30 seconds of continuous application for intrasinus delivery of aerosol (p = 0.009). Penetration with 4 heavy irrigators showed significant variability depending on the sinus cavity being tested. The NeilMed irrigator showed more consistent penetration than any other tested device (p < 0.01). The other systems tested had varying degrees of efficacy, dependent on sinus cavity irrigated.

Conclusion

Delivery of irrigant to maximally operated sinus cavities is variable and highly dependent on the method of nasal delivery. Use of these systems should be tailored appropriately for the desired effect. © 2011 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.
Interleukin‐2/interleukin‐2 antibody therapy induces target organ natural killer cells that inhibit central nervous system inflammation
Authors: Hao Junwei , Campagnolo Denise , Liu Ruolan , Piao Wenhua , Shi Samuel , Hu Baoyang , Xiang Rong , Zhou Qinghua , Vollmer Timothy , Van Kaer Luc , La Cava Antonio , Shi Fu‐Dong
Published: November 2010

Objective:

The role of natural killer (NK) cells in regulating multiple sclerosis (MS) is not well understood. Additional studies with NK cells might provide insight into the mechanism of action of MS therapies such as daclizumab, an antibody against the interleukin (IL)‐2R α‐chain, which induces expansion of CD56bright NK cells.

Methods:

In a relapsing–remitting form of the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of MS induced in SJL mice, we expanded NK cells with IL‐2 coupled with an anti–IL‐2 monoclonal antibody (mAb) and evaluated the effects of these NK cells on EAE. Further, we investigated the effect of the human version of IL‐2/IL‐2 mAb on NK cells from MS patients and its effect on central nervous system (CNS) inflammation and pathology in a human–mouse chimera model and assessed the underlying mechanisms.

Results:

IL‐2/IL‐2 mAb dramatically expands NK cells both in the peripheral lymphoid organs and in the CNS, and attenuates CNS inflammation and neurological deficits. Disease protection is conferred by CNS‐resident NK cells. Importantly, the human version of IL‐2/IL‐2 mAb restored the defective CD56+ NK cells from MS patients in a human–mouse chimera model. Both the CD56bright and CD56dim subpopulations were required to attenuate disease in this model.

Interpretation:

These findings unveil the immunotherapeutic potential of NK cells, which can act as critical suppressor cells in target organs of autoimmunity. These results also have implications to better understand the mechanism of action of daclizumab in MS. Ann Neurol 2011;
UBV‐Beobachtungen und Periodenbestimmung für den Delta Scuti Stern HD 177392
Authors: Schöneich W. , Zelwanowa E.
Published: November 2010

UBV observations of the Delta Scuti type star HD 177392 were carried out in 7 neights. The three periods o41215, o411091, and o4109414 were found. These periods can not be explaine by radial pulsation.
Alfred Wegener und die Physik der Hochatmosphäre
Authors: Schröder W.
Published: November 2010

Alfred Wegener's Beiträge zur Physik der Leuchtenden Nachtwolken, des Polarlichtes sowie anderer atmosphärischer Erscheinungen werden behandelt. Die Bedeutung dieser Forschungen für heutige Fragestellungen wird aufgezeigt.
Outcome after vascular trauma in a deployed military trauma system
Authors: Stannard A , Brown K , Benson C , Clasper J , Midwinter M , Tai N R
Published: November 2010

Background

Military injuries to named blood vessels are complex limb- and life-threatening wounds that pose significant difficulties in prehospital and surgical management. The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive description of the epidemiology, treatment and outcome of vascular injury among service personnel deployed on operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Methods

Data from the British Joint Theatre Trauma Registry were combined with hospital records to review all cases of vascular trauma in deployed service personnel over a 5-year interval ending in January 2008.

Results

Of 1203 injured service personnel, 110 sustained injuries to named vessels; 66 of them died before any surgical intervention. All 25 patients who sustained an injury to a named vessel in the abdomen or thorax died; 24 did not survive to undergo surgery and one casualty in extremis underwent a thoracotomy, but died. Six of 17 patients with cervical vascular injuries survived to surgical intervention; two died after surgery. Of 76 patients with extremity vascular injuries, 37 survived to surgery with one postoperative death. Interventions on 38 limbs included 19 damage control procedures (15 primary amputations, 4 vessel ligations) and 19 definitive limb revascularization procedures (11 interposition vein grafts, 8 direct repairs), four of which failed necessitating three amputations.

Conclusion

In operable patients with extremity injury, amputation or ligation is often required for damage control and preservation of life. Favourable limb salvage rates are achievable in casualties able to withstand revascularization. Despite marked progress in contemporary battlefield trauma care, torso vascular injury is usually not amenable to surgical intervention.
A New Entry into Aluminum Chemistry: [L1AlMe]⋅THF, a Versatile Building Block for Bimetallic and Polymetallic Complexes
Authors: Sarish Sankaranarayana Pillai , Nekoueishahraki Bijan , Jana Anukul , Roesky Herbert W. , Schulz Thomas , Stalke Dietmar
Published: November 2010

[L1AlMe]⋅THF (1; L1=CH[C(CH2)](CMe)(2,6‐iPr2C6H3N)2) is prepared by a new method to test its reactivity towards metal complexes to give heterobimetallic or polymetallic complexes. The treatment of 1 with germanium chloride ([LGeCl]), tin chloride ([LSnCl]; L=CH(CMe2,6‐iPr2C6H3N)2), bismuth amide ([1,8‐C10H6(NSiMe3)2BiNMe2]), and dimethyl zinc (ZnMe2) gave the desired compounds with different functional groups on the aluminum center. All compounds have been thoroughly characterized by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, EI mass spectrometry, X‐ray crystallography (2, 3, and 5), and elemental analysis.
Breakthrough Curves of Methane at High Pressures for H2 Purification Processes
Authors: Bastos‐Neto Moises , Möller Andreas , Böhm Jürgen , Gläser Roger , Staudt Reiner
Published: November 2010

This work provides a series of methane adsorption isotherms and breakthrough curves on one 5A zeolite and one activated carbon. Breakthrough curves of CH4 were obtained from dynamic column measurements at different temperature and pressure conditions for concentrations of 4.4 – 17.3 mol.‐% in H2/CH4 mixtures. A simple model was developed to simulate the curves using measured and calculated data inputs. The results show that the model predictions agree very well with the experiments.
A fourth‐order Cartesian local mesh refinement method for the computational fluid dynamics of physiological flow in multi‐generation branched vessels
Authors: Miki Takahito , Imai Yohsuke , Ishikawa Takuji , Wada Shigeo , Aoki Takayuki , Yamaguchi Takami
Published: November 2010

Since abnormal fluid states in our body cause critical diseases, patient‐specific computational fluid dynamics (CFD) probably become a standard diagnosis tool in the near future. The vessels in our body are multiple‐branched tubes, which makes it difficult to obtain accurate solutions from conventional CFD methods. In this report, we propose a fourth‐order local mesh refinement (LMR) method based on an interpolated differential operator scheme for simulating flow in multi‐generation branched vessels. The proposed LMR method has the accuracy of fourth‐order for three‐dimensional advection and diffusion equations, respectively. We describe how to apply the LMR method to patient‐specific pulmonary airflow simulations. In our method, the computational mesh size is determined locally by geometrical parameters: the diameter of airways and the distance from the airway wall. To demonstrate our method, an LMR model and a fine mesh model were compared for flow in the central airway, and there was no significant difference between results. We also show the applicability of the method to a maximum eleventh‐generation airway model, where the number of computational nodes was reduced by 85% compared with the case using uniform fine meshes. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Innovative Measurement Techniques in Surface Science
Authors: Freund Hans‐Joachim , Nilius Niklas , Risse Thomas , Schauermann Swetlana , Schmidt Thomas
Published: November 2010

We describe four new experimental techniques advanced during the last decade in the authors’ laboratory. The techniques include photon scanning tunneling microscopy; aberration‐corrected low‐energy electron microscopy in combination with photoelectron emission microscopy, microcalorimetry, and electron‐spin resonance spectroscopy. It is demonstrated how those techniques may be applied to solve fundamental problems in surface science with growing demands to tackle complex nanoscopic systems, and, in particular in catalysis science, which, without the availability of those techniques, would be difficult if not impossible to address.
Critical role of the calpain/calpastatin balance in acute allograft rejection
Authors: Letavernier Emmanuel , Dansou Boris , Lochner Matthias , Perez Joëlle , Bellocq Agnès , Lindenmeyer Maja T. , Cohen Clemens D. , Haymann Jean‐Philippe , Eberl Gérard , Baud Laurent
Published: November 2010

Rejection of solid organ allograft involves alloreactive T‐cell expansion. The importance of NF‐κB and NFAT in this process is underscored by the therapeutic efficacy of immunosuppressive agents, which target the two transcription factors. Since calpains, calcium‐activated proteases, are involved in the activation of NF‐κB and NFAT, we investigated the role of calpains in allograft rejection. In human transplant kidneys undergoing acute or chronic rejection, we show an increased expression of CAPN 1 gene encoding μ‐calpain, associated with a marked expression of μ‐calpain, mainly in infiltrating T cells. To address the role of calpain in rejection, we used a skin transplant model in transgenic mice expressing high levels of calpastatin, a calpain‐specific inhibitor. We show that calpain inhibition extended skin allograft survival, from 11 to 20 days. This delay was associated with a limitation in allograft infiltration by T cells. In vitro, calpain inhibition by calpastatin transgene expression limited dramatically T‐cell migration but, unexpectedly, increased slightly T‐cell proliferation. Amplification of IL‐2 signaling via the stabilization of IL‐2R common γ‐chain provided an explanation for the proliferation response. This is the first study establishing that calpain inhibition delays allograft rejection by slowing down T‐cell migration rather than proliferation.
Estrogen receptor‐β ligand treatment modulates dendritic cells in the target organ during autoimmune demyelinating disease
Authors: Du Sienmi , Sandoval Francisco , Trinh Pauline , Umeda Elizabeth , Voskuhl Rhonda
Published: November 2010

Estrogens act upon nuclear estrogen receptors (ER) to ameliorate cell‐mediated autoimmune disease. As most immunomodulatory effects of estrogens in EAE have been attributed to the function of ER‐α, we previously demonstrated that ER‐β ligand treatment reduced disease severity without affecting peripheral cytokine production or levels of CNS inflammation, suggesting a direct neuroprotective effect; however, the effect of ER‐β treatment on the function of immune cells within the target organ remained unknown. Here, we used adoptive transfer studies to show that ER‐β ligand treatment was protective in the effector, but not the induction phase of EAE, as shown by decreased clinical disease severity with the preservation of axons and myelin in spinal cords. The analysis of the immune cell infiltrates in the CNS revealed that while ER‐β ligand treatment did not reduce overall levels of CNS inflammation, there was a decrease in the DC percentage, and these CNS DC had decreased TNF‐α production. Finally, experiments using DC deficient in ER‐β revealed that the expression of ER‐β on DC was essential for protective effects of ER‐β ligand treatment in EAE. Our results demonstrate for the first time an effect of ER‐β ligand treatment in vivo on DC in the target organ of a prototypic cell‐mediated autoimmune disease.
Selection of escape mutant by HLA‐C‐restricted HIV‐1 Pol‐specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes carrying strong ability to suppress HIV‐1 replication
Authors: Honda Kazutaka , Zheng Nan , Murakoshi Hayato , Hashimoto Masao , Sakai Keiko , Borghan Mohamed Ali , Chikata Takayuki , Koyanagi Madoka , Tamura Yoshiko , Gatanaga Hiroyuki , Oka Shinichi , Takiguchi Masafumi
Published: November 2010

HIV‐1 mutants escaping from HLA‐A‐ or HLA‐B‐restricted CTL have been well studied, but those from HLA‐C‐restricted CTL have not. Therefore we investigated the ability of HLA‐C‐restricted CTL to select HIV‐1 escape mutants. In the present study, we identified two novel HLA‐Cw*1202‐restricted Pol‐specific CTL epitopes (Pol328‐9 and Pol463‐10). CTL specific for these epitopes were detected in 25–40% of chronically HIV‐1‐infected HLA‐Cw*1202+ individuals and had strong abilities to kill HIV‐1‐infected cells and to suppress HIV‐1 replication in vitro, suggesting that these CTL may have the ability to effectively control HIV‐1 in some HLA‐Cw*1202+ individuals. Sequence analysis of these epitopes showed that a V‐to‐A substitution at the 9th position (V9A) of Pol 463‐10 was significantly associated with the HLA‐Cw*1202 allele and that the V9A mutant was slowly selected in the HLA‐Cw*1202+ individuals. Pol 463‐10‐specific CTL failed both to kill the V9A virus‐infected cells and to suppress replication of the V9A mutant. These results indicate that the V9A mutation was selected as an escape mutant by the Pol463‐10‐specific CTL. The present study strongly suggests that some HLA‐C‐restricted CTL have a strong ability to suppress HIV‐1 replication so that they can select HIV escape mutants as in the case of HLA‐A‐restricted or HLA‐B‐restricted CTL.
The dependence of Ig class‐switching on the nuclear export sequence of AID likely reflects interaction with factors additional to Crm1 exportin
Authors: Ellyard Julia I. , Benk Amelie S. , Taylor Benjamin , Rada Cristina , Neuberger Michael S.
Published: November 2010

Activation‐induced deaminase (AID) is a B lymphocyte‐specific DNA deaminase that triggers Ig class‐switch recombination (CSR) and somatic hypermutation. It shuttles between cytoplasm and nucleus, containing a nuclear export sequence (NES) at its carboxyterminus. Intriguingly, the precise nature of this NES is critical to AID's function in CSR, though not in somatic hypermutation. Many alterations to the NES, while preserving its nuclear export function, destroy CSR ability. We have previously speculated that AID's ability to potentiate CSR may critically depend on the affinity of interaction between its NES and Crm1 exportin. Here, however, by comparing multiple AID NES mutants, we find that – beyond a requirement for threshold Crm1 binding – there is little correlation between CSR and Crm1 binding affinity. The results suggest that CSR, as well as the stabilisation of AID, depend on an interaction between the AID C‐terminal decapeptide and factor(s) additional to Crm1.
Optimal, heuristic and Q‐learning based DSA policies for cellular networks with coordinated access band
Authors: Kamal Hany , Coupechoux Marceau , Godlewski Philippe , Kelif Jean‐Marc
Published: November 2010

Due to the increasing demands for higher data rate applications, also due to the actual spectrum crowd situation, Dynamic Spectrum Access (DSA) turned into an active research topic. In this paper, we analyse DSA in cellular networks context, where a Coordinated Access Band (CAB) is shared between Radio Access Networks (RANs). We propose a Semi‐Markov Decision Process (SMDP) approach to derive the optimal DSA policies in terms of operator reward. In order to overcome the limitations induced by optimal policy implementation, we also propose two simple, though sub‐optimal, DSA algorithms: a Q‐learning (QL) based algorithm and a heuristic algorithm. The achieved reward using the latter is shown to be very close to the optimal case and thus to significantly exceed the reward obtained with Fixed Spectrum Access (FSA). The rewards achieved by using the QL‐based algorithm are shown to exceed those obtained by using FSA. Higher rewards and better spectrum utilisation with DSA optimal and heuristic methods are, however, obtained at the price of a reduced average user throughput. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.