bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptual analysis of gray and color scale measurements
Authors: Lee Don‐Gyou , Shin Hongseop , Park Sunhee , Lim Kyongho , Kim Jaehong , Park JongJin , Lim Moojong
Published: September 2013

Recently, the gamma subcommittee of the International Committee for Display Metrology has adopted various gamma measurement methods in Information Display Measurements Standard. This article describes further tests including perceptual verification of the suggested measurement methods. In order to verify the suggested measurement method, visual assessment has been carried out. The results of visual assessment can be applied to provide gamma distortion threshold values of the suggested metrology in Information Display Measurements Standard.
A Multi‐Structural Model for Prediction of Effective Gas Permeability in Mixed‐Matrix Membranes
Authors: Sabzevari Sadegh Ahmadi , Sadeghi Morteza , Mehrabani‐Zeinabad Arjomand
Published: September 2013

A new model for prediction of the effective permeability of gases in mixed matrix membranes (MMMs), considering the effects of particle shape and the interfacial layer, is presented. The proposed model treats core filler particles and interfacial shell layers as complex particles. Moreover, the Bruggman mathematical procedure is used to improve the accuracy of the presented model for high concentrations of fillers in MMMs. Also, an appropriate uniform criterion is established to make efficient use of the new model for various experimental data to avoid the need for curve‐fitting procedures. Finally, the proposed model is examined for several sets of experimental data.

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Poly(ester urethane) with Varying Polyester Chain Length: Polymorphism and Shape‐Memory Behavior
Authors: Bothe Martin , Emmerling Franziska , Pretsch Thorsten
Published: September 2013

The swelling, viscoelastic, and mechanical behavior of phase‐segregated poly(ester urethane) (PEU) block copolymers, composed of 4,4′‐methylenediphenyl diisocyanate, 1,4‐butanediol as a chain extender, and crystallizable poly(1,4‐butylene adipate) (PBA) with molecular weights between 1330 and 4120 g mol−1, are investigated. Wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (WAXS) is employed to study the overall PEU crystallinity, which increases from 8.6 to 13.6% at higher PBA contents. The existence of two crystalline, polymorphic PBA phases, a thermodynamically stable α phase and a metastable β phase, is confirmed by further WAXS measurements. Calorimetric and thermomechanical investigations give evidence for controllable PBA polymorphic behavior. The crystallization conditions, like the cooling rate, affect the emerging polymorphic mixture, whereas the storage conditions either promote or inhibit the polymorphic (β to α) transition. The introduced concepts represent a new approach for gaining control over programmable thermo­responsiveness, which may be transferable to other shape‐memory polymers with polymorphic switching segments.

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Facile Preparation of Cobaltocenium‐Containing Polyelectrolyte via Click Chemistry and RAFT Polymerization
Authors: Yan Yi , Zhang Jiuyang , Qiao Yali , Tang Chuanbing
Published: September 2013

A facile method to prepare cationic cobaltocenium‐containing polyelectrolyte is reported. Cobaltocenium monomer with methacrylate is synthesized by copper‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction between 2‐azidoethyl methacrylate and ethynylcobaltocenium hexafluorophosphate. Further controlled polymerization is achieved by reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT) by using cumyl dithiobenzoate (CDB) as a chain transfer agent. Kinetic study demonstrates the controlled/living process of polymerization. The obtained side‐chain cobaltocenium‐containing polymer is a metal‐containing polyelectrolyte that shows characteristic redox behavior of cobaltocenium.

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Screening symptoms of reactive attachment disorder: evidence for measurement invariance and convergent validity
Authors: Vervoort Eleonora , De Schipper J. Clasien , Bosmans Guy , Verschueren Karine
Published: September 2013

The Relationship Problems Questionnaire (RPQ) was developed to screen symptoms of the inhibited and disinhibited subtype of reactive attachment disorder (RAD). This study further examines the psychometric properties of the RPQ in children with severe emotional and behavioural problems by testing its measurement invariance across informants and its convergent validity. Parents and teachers of 152 children [mean age (Mage) = 7.92] from 20 schools for special education filled out the RPQ and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). During a home visit in a subsample of 77 children the Disturbances of Attachment Interview (DAI) was administered to the caregiver and the child was observed using an observational schedule for RAD. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses revealed the expected two‐factor structure for both parent and teacher RPQ. Configural and metric invariance, but no scalar invariance, were obtained across informants. Both RPQ‐subscales had acceptable to good internal consistencies and correlated as expected with similar DAI‐subscales. Furthermore, the disinhibited RPQ‐scale related with observations of the child's approach to a stranger. Finally, significant associations were found between the RPQ and the SDQ. Overall, the RPQ has good psychometric qualities as a multi‐informant instrument for RAD‐symptoms in children with severe emotional and behavioural problems. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multidimensionale Analysedaten
Authors: Haschke Michael
Published: September 2013

Verschiedene Analysemethoden, insbesondere spektroskopische Methoden, können ortsempfindliche Informationen liefern. Das ermöglicht nicht nur die Untersuchung kleiner Probenvolumina, sondern auch die Bestimmung von Verteilungen auf größeren Flächen. Damit entstehen mehrdimensionale Datenstrukturen, die neben den Ortskoordinaten auch die Analysedaten enthalten. Diese werden häufig in Form von Verteilungsbildern dargestellt. Dieser Beitrag diskutiert den Einfluss verschiedener Messparameter auf die Qualität der Analysedaten. Der zweite Teil soll dann die Möglichkeiten für eine Objektivierung und Komprimierung der Daten beschreiben (Optik & Photonik 1/2014).
High‐throughput sequencing of T‐cell receptors reveals a homogeneous repertoire of tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes in ovarian cancer
Authors: Emerson Ryan O , Sherwood Anna M , Rieder Mark J , Guenthoer Jamie , Williamson David W , Carlson Christopher S , Drescher Charles W , Tewari Muneesh , Bielas Jason H , Robins Harlan S
Published: September 2013

The cellular adaptive immune system mounts a response to many solid tumours mediated by tumour‐infiltrating T lymphocytes (TILs). Basic measurements of these TILs, including total count, show promise as prognostic markers for a variety of cancers, including ovarian and colorectal. In addition, recent therapeutic advances are thought to exploit this immune response to effectively fight melanoma, with promising studies showing efficacy in additional cancers. However, many of the basic properties of TILs are poorly understood, including specificity, clonality, and spatial heterogeneity of the T‐cell response. We utilize deep sequencing of rearranged T‐cell receptor beta (TCRB) genes to characterize the basic properties of TILs in ovarian carcinoma. Due to somatic rearrangement during T‐cell development, the TCR beta chain sequence serves as a molecular tag for each T‐cell clone. Using these sequence tags, we assess similarities and differences between infiltrating T cells in discretely sampled sections of large tumours and compare to T cells from peripheral blood. Within the limits of sensitivity of our assay, the TIL repertoires show strong similarity throughout each tumour and are distinct from the circulating T‐cell repertoire. We conclude that the cellular adaptive immune response within ovarian carcinomas is spatially homogeneous and distinct from the T‐cell compartment of peripheral blood. Copyright © 2013 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CONNECTING YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS TO COMMUNITY LIFE
Authors: Carter Erik W. , Harvey Michelle N. , Taylor Julie Lounds , Gotham Katherine
Published: September 2013

Equipping youth with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to flourish during and after high school is central to the purpose and practice of special education. However, many students with ASD are leaving high school without the preparation and connections needed to engage meaningfully in their communities. This article reviews research‐based approaches for connecting adolescents with ASD to life beyond the classroom by describing promising practices for fostering inclusion in postsecondary education and community activities. Recognizing that relationships are at the core of community life, emphasis is placed on fostering social connections as an essential aspect of helping young people with ASD thrive in these settings. We conclude with suggestions for school staff to support the successful transitions of young people with ASD.
Synthesis, Morphological Structures, and Material Characterization of Electrospun PLA:PCL/Magnetic Nanoparticle Composites for Drug Delivery
Authors: Haroosh Hazim J. , Dong Yu , Ingram Gordon D.
Published: September 2013

The effects of pure and impure magnetic nanoparticles (MPs) with three different concentrations (0.01, 0.1, and 1 wt %/v) on the morphological structure, crystallinity level, thermal properties and constituent interactions of electrospun poly(lactic acid) (PLA): poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL)‐based composites were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and drug release tests using UV–vis spectrophotometry. Tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH), as a typical therapeutic compound, was loaded into these composite fibrous structures to study their application for drug delivery. The infrared spectra of composite nanofibers confirm the successful embedding of MPs into the fibrous networks. The addition of pure MPs increased the solution viscosity and thus promoted the MP dispersion inside the electrospun composite fiber mats. Impure MPs led to considerably lower average fiber diameters, and could generate unique cell structures that were reported for the first time in this study. The accelerated release of TCH was found by adding pure MPs to PLA:PCL blends. This characteristic was reflected in the parameters of Ritger‐Peppas and Zeng models, which were well fitted to our experimental drug release data. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1607–1617
Nanofilms Produced by Magnetron Enhanced Plasma Polymerization from Methane and Oxygen for Coating of Rigid Contact Lenses
Authors: Bergmann Michael , Ledernez Loic , Dame Gregory , Lickert Sebastian , Widmer Frank , Gier Yvonne , Urban Gerald
Published: September 2013

Although soft contact lenses are more widespread, rigid contact lenses have been around for decades and their materials have been greatly improved, especially in terms of oxygen permeability. Protein adsorption and wettability are, however, complex challenges still faced by both soft and rigid contact lenses (CLs). This study aims at improving these two major attributes by means of a low‐pressure magnetron enhanced 15 kHz plasma polymerization process. The wide parameter range of the process allowed the tailoring of the surface properties and delivered stable, reproducible plasma coatings. The XPS, FT‐IR, WCA, and QCM surface analysis methods were used to study the nanofilms. A contact angle of down to 18° and a protein (lysozyme) adsorption of only 0.2 µg cm−2 were achieved. Some correlations with the more commonly used “PEO‐like” coatings helped to explain the measurement results.
“Negative” diamagnetism of three‐dimensional arrays of semiconductor nano‐rings
Authors: Thu L. M. , Chiu W. T. , Voskoboynikov O.
Published: September 2013

We theoretically study the orbital diamagnetic response of three‐dimensional arrays of embedded InAs/GaAs wobbled nano‐rings. To simulate the rings' magnetic characteristics, we use the effective one band Hamiltonian (energy and position‐dependent electron effective mass and Landé factor) and smooth three‐dimensional confinement potential that is mapping the actual strain and material content inside the rings. First, we obtain the magnetic susceptibility of an individual nano‐ring. Once it is achieved, using the Claussius–Mossotti relation we estimate the effective susceptibility of three‐dimensional arrays of the rings. We show that conventionally diamagnetic InAs/GaAs ring structures under certain conditions can demonstrate the positive peak of the effective magnetic susceptibility of the arrays, that we call “negative”‐diamagnetic response. The “negative”‐diamagnetic (positive susceptibility) peak remains Lorentz‐like shaped and gradually disappears when the rings' concentration in the arrays decreases.
Tests of polyurethane foams with negative Poisson's ratio
Authors: Lisiecki J. , Błażejewicz T. , Kłysz S. , Gmurczyk G. , Reymer P. , Mikułowski G.
Published: September 2013

Auxetic materials exhibit counterintuitive and interesting properties, which can be utilized to develop new families of products, which can meet sophisticated needs. Study presented within this paper is focused on manufacturing and testing auxetic polyurethane foams for potential introduction for seats in military helicopters. Firstly, a manufacturing process was developed which benefits from the well‐known methods of processing conventional foams and allows preparing necessary test specimens for further tests. Secondly, a series of static and dynamic tests was performed during which the market available conventional foams used in transport are compared with processed auxetic foams.
Adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vectors in gene therapy: immune challenges and strategies to circumvent them
Authors: Hareendran Sangeetha , Balakrishnan Balaji , Sen Dwaipayan , Kumar Sanjay , Srivastava Alok , Jayandharan Giridhara R.
Published: September 2013

AAV‐based gene transfer protocols have shown remarkable success when directed to immune‐privileged sites such as for retinal disorders like Lebers congenital amaurosis. In contrast, AAV‐mediated gene transfer into liver or muscle tissue for diseases such as hemophilia B, α1 anti‐trypsin deficiency and muscular dystrophy has demonstrated a decline in gene transfer efficacy over time. It is now known that in humans, AAV triggers specific pathways that recruit immune sensors. These factors initiate an immediate reaction against either the viral capsid or the vector encoded protein as part of innate immune response or to produce a more specific adaptive response that generates immunological memory. The vector‐transduced cells are then rapidly destroyed due to this immune activation. However, unlike other viral vectors, AAV is not immunogenic in murine models. Its immunogenicity becomes apparent only in large animal models and human subjects. Moreover, humans are natural hosts to AAV and exhibit a high seroprevalence against AAV vectors. This limits the widespread application of AAV vectors into patients with pre‐existing neutralising antibodies or memory T cells. To address these issues, various strategies are being tested. Alternate serotype vectors (AAV1‐10), efficient expression cassettes, specific tissue targeting, immune‐suppression and engineered capsid variants are some approaches proposed to minimise this immune stimulation. In this review, we have summarised the nature of the immune response documented against AAV in various pre‐clinical and clinical settings and have further discussed the strategies to evade them. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Bayesian adaptive dose selection procedure with an overdispersed count endpoint
Authors: Pozzi L. , Schmidli H. , Gasparini M. , Racine‐Poon A.
Published: September 2013

Adaptive trial designs can considerably improve upon traditional designs, by modifying design aspects of the ongoing trial, like early stopping, adding, or dropping doses, or changing the sample size. In the present work, we propose a two‐stage Bayesian adaptive design for a Phase IIb study aimed at selecting the lowest effective dose for Phase III. In this setting, efficacy has been proved for a high dose in a Phase IIa proof‐of‐concept study, but the existence of a lower but still effective dose is investigated before the scheduled Phase III starts. In the first stage, we randomize patients to placebo, maximal tolerated dose, and one or more additional doses within the dose range. Based on an interim analysis, we either stop the study for futility or success or continue the study to the second stage, where newly recruited patients are allocated to placebo, some fairly high dose, and one additional dose chosen based on interim data. At the interim analysis, we use the criteria based on the predictive probability of success to decide on whether to stop or to continue the trial and, in the latter case, which dose to select for the second stage. Finally, we will select a dose as lowest effective dose for Phase III either at the end of the first stage or at the end of the second stage. We evaluate the operating characteristics of the procedure via simulations and present the results for several scenarios, comparing the performance of the proposed procedure to those of the non‐adaptive design. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrostatic Control of Structure in Self‐Assembled Membranes
Authors: Bitton Ronit , Chow Lesley W. , Zha R. Helen , Velichko Yuri S. , Pashuck E. Thomas , Stupp Samuel I.
Published: September 2013

Self‐assembling peptide amphiphiles (PAs) can form hierarchically ordered membranes when brought in contact with aqueous polyelectrolytes of the opposite charge by rapidly creating a diffusion barrier composed of filamentous nanostructures parallel to the plane of the incipient membrane. Following this event, osmotic forces and charge complexation template nanofiber growth perpendicular to the plane of the membrane in a dynamic self‐assembly process. In this work, we show that this hierarchical structure requires massive interfacial aggregation of PA molecules, suggesting the importance of rapid diffusion barrier formation. Strong PA aggregation is induced here through the use of heparin‐binding PAs with heparin and also with polyelectrolytes of varying charge density. Small angle X‐ray scattering shows that in the case of weak PA‐polyelectrolyte interaction, membranes formed display a cubic phase ordering on the nanoscale that likely results from clusters of PA nanostructures surrounded by polyelectrolyte chains.
Expression of Podocalyxin Separates the Hematopoietic and Vascular Potentials of Mouse Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Mesoderm
Authors: Zhang Hailan , Nieves Johnathan L. , Fraser Stuart T. , Isern Joan , Douvaras Panagiotis , Papatsenko Dmitri , D'Souza Sunita L. , Lemischka Ihor R. , Dyer Michael A. , Baron Margaret H.
Published: September 2013

In the mouse embryo and differentiating embryonic stem cells, the hematopoietic, endothelial, and cardiomyocyte lineages are derived from Flk1+ mesodermal progenitors. Here, we report that surface expression of Podocalyxin (Podxl), a member of the CD34 family of sialomucins, can be used to subdivide the Flk1+ cells in differentiating embryoid bodies at day 4.75 into populations that develop into distinct mesodermal lineages. Definitive hematopoietic potential was restricted to the Flk1+Podxl+ population, while the Flk1-negative Podxl+ population displayed only primitive erythroid potential. The Flk1+Podxl-negative population contained endothelial cells and cardiomyocyte potential. Podxl expression distinguishes Flk1+ mesoderm populations in mouse embryos at days 7.5, 8.5, and 9.5 and is a marker of progenitor stage primitive erythroblasts. These findings identify Podxl as a useful tool for separating distinct mesodermal lineages. Stem Cells  2014;32:191–203
Priming with Ligands Secreted by Human Stromal Progenitor Cells Promotes Grafts of Cardiac Stem/Progenitor Cells After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Iso Yoshitaka , Rao Krithika S. , Poole Charla N. , Zaman A. K. M. Tarikuz , Curril Ingrid , Sobel Burton E. , Kajstura Jan , Anversa Piero , Spees Jeffrey L.
Published: September 2013

Transplantation of culture-expanded adult stem/progenitor cells often results in poor cellular engraftment, survival, and migration into sites of tissue injury. Mesenchymal cells including fibroblasts and stromal cells secrete factors that protect injured tissues, promote tissue repair, and support many types of stem/progenitor cells in culture. We hypothesized that secreted factors in conditioned medium (CdM) from adult bone marrow-derived multipotent stromal cells (MSCs) could be used to prime adult cardiac stem/progenitor cells (CSCs/CPCs) and improve graft success after myocardial infarction (MI). Incubation of adult rat CPCs in CdM from human MSCs isolated by plastic adherence or by magnetic sorting against CD271 (a.k.a., p75 low-affinity nerve growth factor receptor; p75MSCs) induced phosphorylation of STAT3 and Akt in CPCs, supporting their proliferation under normoxic conditions and survival under hypoxic conditions (1% oxygen). Priming CSCs with 30× p75MSC CdM for 30 minutes prior to transplantation into subepicardial tissue 1 day after MI markedly increased engraftment compared with vehicle priming. Screening CdM with neutralizing/blocking antibodies identified connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and Insulin as key factors in p75MSC CdM that protected CPCs. Human CTGF peptide (CTGF-D4) and Insulin synergistically promoted CPC survival during hypoxia in culture. Similar to CdM priming, priming of CSCs with CTGF-D4 and Insulin for 30 minutes prior to transplantation promoted robust engraftment, survival, and migration of CSC derivatives at 1 week and 1 month after MI. Our results indicate that short-term priming of human CSCs with CTGF-D4 and Insulin may improve graft success and cardiac regeneration in patients with MI. Stem Cells  2014;32:674–683
Smad1 and 5 but Not Smad8 Establish Stem Cell Quiescence Which Is Critical to Transform the Premature Hair Follicle During Morphogenesis Toward the Postnatal State
Authors: Kandyba Eve , Hazen Virginia M. , Kobielak Agnieszka , Butler Samantha J. , Kobielak Krzysztof
Published: September 2013

Hair follicles (HFs) are regenerative miniorgans that offer a highly informative model system to study the regulatory mechanisms of hair follicle stem cells (hfSCs) homeostasis and differentiation. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling is key in both of these processes, governing hfSCs quiescence in the bulge and differentiation of matrix progenitors. However, whether canonical or noncanonical pathways of BMP signaling are responsible for these processes remains unresolved. Here, we conditionally ablated two canonical effectors of BMP signaling, Smad1 and Smad5 during hair morphogenesis and postnatal cycling in mouse skin. Deletion of Smad1 and Smad5 (dKO) in the epidermis during morphogenesis resulted in neonatal lethality with lack of visible whiskers. Interestingly, distinct patterns of phospho-Smads (pSmads) activation were detected with pSmad8 restricted to epidermis and pSmad1 and pSmad5 exclusively activated in HFs. Engraftment of dKO skin revealed retarded hair morphogenesis and failure to differentiate into visible hair. The formation of the prebulge and bulge reservoir for quiescent hfSCs was precluded in dKO HFs which remained in prolonged anagen. Surprisingly, in postnatal telogen HFs, pSmad8 expression was no longer limited to epidermis and was also present in dKO bulge hfSCs and matrix progenitors. Although pSmad8 activity alone could not prevent dKO hfSCs precocious anagen activation, it sustained efficient postnatal differentiation and regeneration of visible hairs. Together, our data suggest a pivotal role for canonical BMP signaling demonstrating distinguished nonoverlapping function of pSmad8 with pSmad1 and pSmad5 in hfSCs regulation and hair morphogenesis but a redundant role in adult hair progenitors differentiation. Stem Cells  2014;32:534–547
The Diammine Silver(I) Acetate [Ag(NH3)2]OAc
Authors: Woidy Patrick , Kraus Florian
Published: September 2013

Silver acetate AgOAc reacts with dry liquid ammonia under the formation of colorless needle‐shaped crystals of diammine silver(I) acetate [Ag(NH3)2]OAc (1). The compound crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with a = 8.0205(2), b = 12.4161(3), c = 6.0938(2) Å, β = 107.741(4)°, and V = 577.98(3) Å3 at 123 K with Z = 4. The crystal structure shows the presence of almost linear [Ag(NH3)2]+ cations, which are arranged in a corrugated chain of equidistant silver atoms. The Ag–Ag distance is 3.1089(11) Å, which falls in the range of “argentophilic” interactions. After warming to room temperature and removal of the solvent, compound 1 was found unchanged as evidenced by powder X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric and mass‐spectrometric analysis, as well as IR and Raman spectroscopy.
THD Doppler procedure for hemorrhoids: the surgical technique
Authors: Ratto C.
Published: September 2013

Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD) is an effective treatment for hemorrhoidal disease. The ligation of hemorrhoidal arteries (called “dearterialization”) can provide a significant reduction of the arterial overflow to the hemorrhoidal piles. Plication of the redundant rectal mucosa/submucosa (called “mucopexy”) can provide a repositioning of prolapsing tissue to the anatomical site. In this paper, the surgical technique and perioperative patient management are illustrated. Following adequate clinical assessment, patients undergo THD under general or spinal anesthesia, in either the lithotomy or the prone position. In all patients, distal Doppler-guided dearterialization is performed, providing the selective ligation of hemorrhoidal arteries identified by Doppler. In patients with hemorrhoidal/muco-hemorrhoidal prolapse, the mucopexy is performed with a continuous suture including the redundant and prolapsing mucosa and submucosa. The description of the surgical procedure is complemented by an accompanying video (see supplementary material). In long-term follow-up, there is resolution of symptoms in the vast majority of patients. The most common complication is transient tenesmus, which sometimes can result in rectal discomfort or pain. Rectal bleeding occurs in a very limited number of patients. Neither fecal incontinence nor chronic pain should occur. Anorectal physiology parameters should be unaltered, and anal sphincters should not be injured by following this procedure. When accurately performed and for the correct indications, THD is a safe procedure and one of the most effective treatments for hemorrhoidal disease.
Analysis of productive binding modes in the human chitotriosidase
Authors: Eide Kristine Bistrup , Lindbom Anne Rita , Eijsink Vincent G.H. , Norberg Anne Line , Sørlie Morten
Published: September 2013

Human chitotriosidase (HCHT) is a family 18 chitinase that is an innate part of the immune system. We have mapped preferred productive binding modes of chito‐oligosaccharide substrates to HCHT and the data show that HCHT has strong binding affinity in the +3 subsite. Moreover, HCHT shows anomer‐specific binding affinities in subsites +2 and +3. These features could endorse HCHT with higher endo‐activity and a higher transglycosylation potential.
Revisiting the Role of Bureaucrats in Pension Policy-making: The Case of South Korea
Authors: Kim Won Sub , Choi Young Jun
Published: September 2013

This article aims to provide an understanding of the dynamics of pension politics in South Korea with a particular focus on the role of bureaucrats. In order to explain the reforms, this research will closely examine how the expertise and legitimacy of civil servants, together with their institutional positioning, have affected their power and role in the policy-making process. This article will argue that bureaucrats, particularly the welfare bureaucracy, attained their major reform goals by associating and competing with other political actors in two major reforms.
Populist Radical Right Parties in Central and Eastern Europe: The Different Context and Issues of the Prophets of the Patria
Authors: Pirro Andrea L.P.
Published: September 2013

The recent electoral performances of the Bulgarian Ataka, Hungarian Jobbik, and the Slovak National Party seem to confirm the pervasive appeal of the populist radical right in Central and Eastern Europe. Unlike their Western counterparts, these parties do not stem from a ‘silent counter-revolution’. Populist radical right parties in the region retain featuressui generis, partly in relation to their historical legacies and the idiosyncrasies of the post-communist context. After distinguishing between pre-communist, communist and post-communist issues, this article discerns commonalities and differences in the ideology of the three parties by a content analysis of the party literatures. The analysis shows that populist radical right parties in Central and Eastern Europe are fairly ‘like minded’, yet they do not constitute an entirely homogeneous group. While a minimum combination of ideological features reveals that only clericalism and opposition to ethnic minorities are shared by all three parties, a maximum combination would extend this to irredentism, anti-corruption and Euroscepticism.
Mental Health and Students with Disabilities: A Review of Literature
Authors: McMillan Julie M. , Jarvis Jane M.
Published: September 2013

Students with disabilities are at increased risk of experiencing mental health difficulties, but may not be recognised as an at-risk population in the design of school-based prevention and intervention efforts. Understanding the link between disability and mental health is important for school psychologists and guidance counsellors, teachers, and special education personnel who are in a position to provide targeted opportunities for social and emotional learning and to ameliorate the potential for marginalisation and isolation. This article reviews research related to mental health in students with disabilities, with a focus on understanding potential pathways between disability and mental health difficulties and examining the evidence for effective universal and targeted interventions. The research reviewed highlights the need for mental health promotion in schools to incorporate targeted approaches for at-risk students within the context of universal, whole-school approaches, and in particular to consider the mental health needs of students with disabilities.
Prenatal programming in an obese swine model: sex-related effects of maternal energy restriction on morphology, metabolism and hypothalamic gene expression
Authors: Óvilo Cristina , González-Bulnes Antonio , Benítez Rita , Ayuso Miriam , Barbero Alicia , Pérez-Solana Maria L. , Barragán Carmen , Astiz Susana , Fernández Almudena , López-Bote Clemente
Published: September 2013

Maternal energy restriction during pregnancy predisposes to metabolic alterations in the offspring. The present study was designed to evaluate phenotypic and metabolic consequences following maternal undernutrition in an obese pig model and to define the potential role of hypothalamic gene expression in programming effects. Iberian sows were fed a control or a 50 % restricted diet for the last two-thirds of gestation. Newborns were assessed for body and organ weights, hormonal and metabolic status, and hypothalamic expression of genes implicated in energy homeostasis, glucocorticoid function and methylation. Weight and adiposity were measured in adult littermates. Newborns of the restricted sows were lighter (P <0·01), but brain growth was spared. The plasma concentration of TAG was lower in the restricted newborns than in the control newborns of both the sexes (P <0·01), while the concentration of cortisol was higher in females born to the restricted sows (P <0·04), reflecting a situation of metabolic stress by nutrient insufficiency. A lower hypothalamic expression of anorexigenic peptides (LEPR and POMC, P <0·01 and P <0·04, respectively) was observed in females born to the restricted sows, but no effect was observed in the males. The expression of HSD11B1 gene was down-regulated in the restricted animals (P <0·05), suggesting an adaptive mechanism for reducing the harmful effects of elevated concentrations of cortisol. At 4 and 7 months of age, the restricted females were heavier and fatter than the controls (P< 0·01). Maternal feed restriction induces asymmetrical growth retardation and metabolic alterations in the offspring. Differences in gene expression at birth and higher growth and adiposity in adulthood suggest a female-specific programming effect for a positive energy balance, possibly due to overexposure to endogenous stress-induced glucocorticoids.
The Complexity of the Lie Module
Authors: Erdmann Karin , Lim Kay Jin , Tan Kai Meng
Published: September 2013

We show that the complexity of the Lie module Lie(n) in characteristicpis bounded above bym, wherepmis the largestp-power dividingn, and, ifnis not ap-power, is equal to the maximum of the complexities of Lie(pi) for 1≤i≤m.
Vitamin D and bone health outcomes in older age
Authors: Hill Tom R. , Aspray Terence J. , Francis Roger M.
Published: September 2013

The aim of this review is to summarise the evidence linking vitamin D to bone health outcomes in older adults. A plethora of scientific evidence globally suggests that large proportions of people have vitamin D deficiency and are not meeting recommended intakes. Older adults are at particular risk of the consequences of vitamin D deficiency owing to a combination of physiological and behavioural factors. Epidemiological studies show that low vitamin D status is associated with a variety of negative skeletal consequences in older adults including osteomalacia, reduced bone mineral density, impaired Ca absorption and secondary hyperparathyroidism. There seems to be inconsistent evidence for a protective role of vitamin D supplementation alone on bone mass. However, it is generally accepted that vitamin D (17·5 μg/d) in combination with Ca (1200 mg/d) reduces bone loss among older white subjects. Evidence for a benefit of vitamin D supplementation alone on reducing fracture risk is varied. According to a recent Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality review in the USA the evidence base shows mixed results for a beneficial effect of vitamin D on decreasing overall fracture risk. Limitations such as poor compliance with treatment, incomplete assessment of vitamin D status and large drop-out rates however, have been highlighted within some studies. In conclusion, it is generally accepted that vitamin D in combination with Ca reduces the risk of non-vertebral fractures particularly those in institutional care. The lack of data on vitamin D and bone health outcomes in certain population groups such as diverse racial groups warrants attention.
The impact of voluntary food fortification on micronutrient intakes and status in European countries: a review
Authors: Hennessy Áine , Walton Janette , Flynn Albert
Published: September 2013

This review aims to assess the efficacy and safety of voluntary fortification as an option to address the occurrence of inadequate micronutrient intakes in population subgroups in Europe. Although legislation is harmonised across the European Union, fortification practices and patterns of consumption of fortified foods vary considerably between countries. While the proportion of children consuming fortified foods is greater than adults, the proportion of dietary energy obtained from fortified foods is generally low (<10% in Ireland, where fortified foods are widely consumed). There are a few systematic studies on the overall nutritional impact of voluntary fortification, but there are several studies on the impact of fortified ready-to-eat breakfast cereals. The available evidence indicates that voluntary fortification can reduce the risk of sub-optimal intakes of a range of micronutrients at a population level and can also improve status for selected micronutrients (e.g. folate, vitamin D and riboflavin) in children and adults. Although concerns have been raised regarding the potential of food fortification to lead to unacceptably high micronutrient intakes, particularly for those consuming higher amounts of fortified foods, data from national surveys on total micronutrient intakes (including fortified foods) in Europe show that small proportions of the population, particularly children, may exceed the upper intake level (UL) for some micronutrients. The risk of adverse effects occurring in these individuals exceeding the UL by modest amounts is low. In conclusion, voluntary fortification practices have been shown to improve intake and status of key micronutrients in European Union population groups and do not contribute appreciably to risk of adverse effects.
An examination of generalized anxiety disorder and dysthymic disorder by latent class analysis
Authors: Rhebergen D. , van der Steenstraten I. M. , Sunderland M. , de Graaf R. , ten Have M. , Lamers F. , Penninx B. W. J. H. , Andrews G.
Published: September 2013

Background

The nosological status of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) versus dysthymic disorder (DD) has been questioned. The aim of this study was to examine qualitative differences within (co-morbid) GAD and DD symptomatology.

Method

Latent class analysis was applied to anxious and depressive symptomatology of respondents from three population-based studies (2007 Australian National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing; National Comorbidity Survey Replication; and Netherlands Mental Health Survey and Incidence Study-2; together known as the Triple study) and respondents from a multi-site naturalistic cohort [Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety (NESDA)]. Sociodemographics and clinical characteristics of each class were examined.

Results

A three-class (Triple study) and two-class (NESDA) model best fitted the data, reflecting mainly different levels of severity of symptoms. In the Triple study, no division into a predominantly GAD or DD co-morbidity subtype emerged. Likewise, in spite of the presence of pure GAD and DD cases in the NESDA sample, latent class analysis did not identify specific anxiety or depressive profiles in the NESDA study. Next, sociodemographics and clinical characteristics of each class were examined. Classes only differed in levels of severity.

Conclusions

The absence of qualitative differences in anxious or depressive symptomatology in empirically derived classes questions the differentiation between GAD and DD.
The Sepik River (Papua New Guinea) is not a dispersal barrier for lowland rain-forest frogs
Authors: Dahl Chris , Richards Stephen J. , Novotny Vojtech
Published: September 2013

Major tropical rivers have been suggested to be important dispersal barriers that increase the beta diversity of animal communities in lowland rain forests. We tested this hypothesis using assemblages of frogs in the floodplains of the Sepik River, a major river system in Papua New Guinea. We surveyed frogs at five sites within a continuous 150 × 500-km area of lowland rain forest bisected by the Sepik, using standardized visual and auditory survey techniques. We documented 769 frogs from 44 species. The similarity in species composition decreased with logarithm of geographical distance between the sites, which ranged from 82 to 465 km. The similarity decay did not depend on whether or not the compared sites were separated by the Sepik River or whether the species were aquatic or terrestrial breeders. Likewise, a DCA ordination of frog assemblages did not show separation of sites by the river as a significant factor explaining their composition. Our results suggest that even major rivers, such as the Sepik, may not act as dispersal barriers. Rivers may not limit the distribution of frogs and therefore have a limited effect on determining frog species abundance and assemblage structure in rain forests.
Lexical and phrasal prominence patterns in school-aged children's speech
Authors: SHPORT IRINA A. , REDFORD MELISSA A.
Published: September 2013

This study investigated the integration of word- and phrase-level prominences in speech produced by twenty-five school-aged children (6;2 to 7;3) and twenty-five adults. Participants produced disyllabic number words in a straight count condition and in two phrasal conditions, namely, a stress clash and non-clash phrasal context. Duration and amplitude measures of syllable rhymes were used to assess the realization of lexical stress, and fundamental frequency (F0) measures were used to assess the realization of phrasal pitch accents across conditions. Results showed that the duration and F0 correlates varied independently of each other as a function of condition in child speech, but much less so in adult speech. The group differences were taken to indicate that six-year-old children have yet to develop prosodic structures with integrated prominence. Structural and pragmatic interpretations of the results are discussed.
Ulrich ideals and modules
Authors: GOTO SHIRO , OZEKI KAZUHO , TAKAHASHI RYO , WATANABE KEI-ICHI , YOSHIDA KEN-ICHI
Published: September 2013

In this paper we study Ulrich ideals of and Ulrich modules over Cohen--Macaulay local rings from various points of view. We determine the structure of minimal free resolutions of Ulrich modules and their associated graded modules, and classify Ulrich ideals of numerical semigroup rings and rings of finite CM-representation type.
The Story of Sāvitrī in theMahābhārata: a Lineal Interpretation
Authors: BRODBECK SIMON
Published: September 2013

This paper presents a new interpretation of the story of Sāvitrī as presented in theMahābhārata. Sāvitrī is viewed as an intendedputrikā, or lineal daughter, for her father, and the death of her husband and the misfortunes of her father-in-law are explained as corollaries of this circumstance; but at the last minute Sāvitrī switches her allegiance to her husband and his line, becoming apativratārather than aputrikā. Following a prompt in theMahābhāratatext, the paper concludes with an exploration, on the Sāvitrī model, of Draupadī's relationship to the Pāṇḍava line. The death of the Draupadeyas and the resuscitation of Parikṣit are viewed in terms of a symbolic switch from theputrikāto thepativratāmode of operation.
BMI and sociodemographic correlates of body image perception and attitudes in school-aged children
Authors: Duchin Ofra , Mora-Plazas Mercedes , Marin Constanza , de Leon Carlos Mendes , Lee Joyce M , Baylin Ana , Villamor Eduardo
Published: September 2013

Objective

The aim of the present study was to identify correlates of body image perception and dissatisfaction among school-aged children from Colombia, a country undergoing the nutrition transition.

Design

Cross-sectional study. Using child-adapted Stunkard scales, children were asked to indicate the silhouette that most closely represented their current and desired body shapes. Body image dissatisfaction (BID) score was estimated as current minus desired silhouette. Height and weight were measured in all children. Sociodemographic data were collected through questionnaires completed by the children's mothers.

Setting

Public primary schools in Bogotá, Colombia.

Subjects

Children aged 5–12 years (n629) and their mothers.

Results

Mean BID score was 0·1 (sd1·7). The strongest predictor of BID was actual BMI-for-ageZ-score (BAZ). Compared with children with BAZ ≥ −1 and <1, those with BAZ ≥ 2 had a 1·9 units higher BID score (Pfor trend <0·0001). BID tended to be higher in girls than boys at any level of BAZ. Other correlates of BID included child's height-for-ageZ-score, maternal BMI and dissatisfaction with the child's body, and home ownership.

Conclusions

Among school-aged children from a country experiencing the nutrition transition, body image perception was associated with the child's weight and height, and with maternal BMI, dissatisfaction with the child's body and socio-economic level.
Association of breakfast consumption with objectively measured and self-reported physical activity, sedentary time and physical fitness in European adolescents: the HELENA (Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence) Study
Authors: Cuenca-García Magdalena , Ruiz Jonatan R , Ortega Francisco B , Labayen Idoia , González-Gross Marcela , Moreno Luis A , Gomez-Martinez Sonia , Ciarapica Donatella , Hallström Lena , Wästlund Acki , Molnar Dénes , Gottrand Frederic , Manios Yannis , Widhalm Kurt , Kafatos Anthony , De Henauw Stefaan , Sjöström Michael , Castillo Manuel J
Published: September 2013

Objective

To examine the association of breakfast consumption with objectively measured and self-reported physical activity, sedentary time and physical fitness.

Design

The HELENA (Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence) Cross-Sectional Study. Breakfast consumption was assessed by two non-consecutive 24 h recalls and by a ‘Food Choices and Preferences’ questionnaire. Physical activity, sedentary time and physical fitness components (cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness and speed/agility) were measured and self-reported. Socio-economic status was assessed by questionnaire.

Setting

Ten European cities.

Subjects

Adolescents (n2148; aged 12·5–17·5 years).

Results

Breakfast consumption was not associated with measured or self-reported physical activity. However, 24 h recall breakfast consumption was related to measured sedentary time in males and females; although results were not confirmed when using other methods to assess breakfast patterns or sedentary time. Breakfast consumption was not related to muscular fitness and speed/agility in males and females. However, male breakfast consumers had higher cardiorespiratory fitness compared with occasional breakfast consumers and breakfast skippers, while no differences were observed in females. Overall, results were consistent using different methods to assess breakfast consumption or cardiorespiratory fitness (allP≤ 0·005). In addition, both male and female breakfast skippers (assessed by 24 h recall) were less likely to have high measured cardiorespiratory fitness compared with breakfast consumers (OR = 0·33; 95 % CI 0·18, 0·59 and OR = 0·56; 95 %CI 0·32, 0·98, respectively). Results persisted across methods.

Conclusions

Skipping breakfast does not seem to be related to physical activity, sedentary time or muscular fitness and speed/agility as physical fitness components in European adolescents; yet it is associated with both measured and self-reported cardiorespiratory fitness, which extends previous findings.
State Secularization and Religious Resurgence: Diverging Fates of Secularism in Turkey and Iran
Authors: Baskan Birol
Published: September 2013

The recent Arab revolutions/rebellions/protests have raised once again an old question: what features should the Arab political systems ideally have? Inescapably, perhaps, the case of Turkey frequently appears as a model to be emulated in the Arab world. A variety of actors, from George W. Bush to Barack Obama, from Rashid Ganouchi to Hillary Clinton has in fact viewed Turkey in that role. Even though, many intellectuals and academics usually raise doubts about the suitability of Turkish model for the Arab world (see, for example, Mamedov and Makarov 2011), it may still prove fruitful to consider the case of Turkey more seriously.