bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decay of a long-term monitored glacier: the Careser glacier (Ortles-Cevedale, European Alps)
Authors: Carturan L. , Baroni C. , Becker M. , Bellin A. , Cainelli O. , Carton A. , Casarotto C. , Dalla Fontana G. , Godio A. , Martinelli T. , Salvatore M. C. , Seppi R.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. The continuation of valuable, long-term glacier observation series is threatened by the accelerated mass loss which currently affects a large portion of so-called "benchmark" glaciers. In this work we present the evolution of the Careser glacier, from the beginning of systematic observation at the end of the nineteenth century to its current condition in 2012. In addition to having one of the longest and richest observation record among the Italian glaciers, Careser is unique in the Italian Alps for its 45 yr mass balance series started in 1967. In the present study, variations in the length, area and volume of the glacier since 1897 are examined, updating the series of direct mass balance observations and extending it into the past using the geodetic method. The glacier is currently strongly out of balance and in rapid decay; its average mass loss rate over the last three decades was −1.5 m water equivalent per year, increasing to −2.0 m water equivalent per year in the last decade. If mass loss continues at this pace, the glacier will disappear within a few decades, putting an end to this unique observation series.
Customer perspectives on water quality, safety, and service failure risks
Authors: Chalak Ali , Reid Scott , Silcock Martin , Abiad Mohamad G.
Published: July 2013

Mixed logit models offer a useful framework for understanding variations in customers' attitudes toward service failure risks. However, assumptions of normality could be unrealistic in cases in which attitudes are bounded by zero and risk indifference is common among customers. This article presents findings from a choice experiment that gauged customers' attitudes toward risks associated with water quality, safety, and service failures. The preferred model was specified with bounded and flexible distributions of parameters to accommodate plausible distributional patterns. Results suggest that whereas customers are relatively indifferent to lower‐risk occurrences such as boil‐water notices, higher‐risk situations such as “don't use” notices cause a shift to “risk‐dislike.” Moreover, results indicated that indifference is more pronounced among customers who have previously experienced water safety failures. As study results highlight, communication and messaging strategies that mimic experiences of distress caused by water service failures can serve as effective tools for intervention and mitigation.
Role of the water main in lead service line replacement: A utility case study
Authors: Camara Eliman , Montreuil Krysta R. , Knowles Alisha K. , Gagnon Graham A.
Published: July 2013

To understand the role of water mains in lead and iron release following lead service line (LSL) replacement, samples were collected from the tap water of 28 homes in Halifax, N.S., after a minimum 6‐h stagnation. In full replacements, average lead concentrations in service lines connected to cast‐iron mains with three different maintenance conditions—pigged, pigged and lined, and not pigged or lined—were 31.5±11.0, 3.3±2.3, and 3.7±2.7 μg/L, respectively, compared with 0.58±0.2 μg/L for ductile‐iron mains. In partial replacements, average lead concentrations were 63.09±30.9, 14.60±2.9, and 6.82±3.3 μg/L, respectively, for the three cast‐iron main conditions, compared with 8.5±3.1 μg/L for ductile‐iron mains. Adsorption of lead on iron corrosion scales dissolved or dislodged from tuberculated mains could account for the higher lead release observed. In this study, full replacement LSLs connected to ductile‐iron mains had the lowest lead concentrations.
Large Utilities' Use of the Microbial Toolbox for LT2ESWTR Compliance
Authors: McTigue Nancy E. , Cornwell David A.
Published: July 2013

Public water systems were surveyed to determine how they chose to achieve compliance with the Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT2ESWTR). This rule, promulgated in 2006, was intended to increase protection from the risks of Cryptosporidium contamination by encouraging utilities to adopt a multibarrier approach to drinking water treatment. The rule allowed the use of a number of treatment options, or tools, for compliance. Large treatment facilities were required to demonstrate compliance with the rule by 2012. This survey determined which tools large utilities used for compliance and why they chose these particular options. This article discusses the tools chosen, outlines the requirements for obtaining credits for Cryptosporidium inactivation or removal, and reviews the scientific basis for the US Environmental Protection Agency's decision to grant these credits.
The Cause for Heart Disease and Strokes
Authors: Kummerow Fred A.
Published: July 2013

There has been no solution to heart disease to date. I obtained discarded veins from bypass (CABG) surgeries and subjected them to phospholipid analysis. We also obtained arterial cells from human umbilical cords and cultured them with a decreasing concentration of either cholesterol or oxidized cholesterol. Patients undergoing CABG surgery and aging swine had significantly higher levels of sphingomyelin in their arterial cells than arterial cells from human umbilical cords. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OxLDL) and oxysterols further contribute to atherosclerosis by increasing the synthesis of thromboxane in platelets, a clotting factor. When we incubated arterial cells with cholesterol that had not been oxidized, even at twelve times the concentration of the oxidized cholesterols we used, there was no effect on sphingomyelin content, this shows that cholesterol itself is not the reason for heart disease, and has to be oxidized in order to cause harm. My study indicated that atherosclerosis is due to a diet that contains a high level of oxysterols. Normal levels of oxysterols in the plasma will not increase sphingomyelin levels. Removing oxidized fat from the diet should be considered as a therapeutic measure for atherosclerosis. Ancel Keys, who some consider the father of the cholesterol-heart disease hypothesis said in 1997: "There's no connection whatsoever between the cholesterol in food and cholesterol in the blood."
Poursuite de la vie active selon le genre au Québec : l’effet de la qualité de l’emploi et de la situation personnelle
Authors: Cloutier-Villeneuve Luc
Published: July 2013

Le discours actuel au sujet des nombreux départs à la retraite prévisibles traite essentiellement du prolongement de la vie active. Or, rien n’indique que cette solution se produira identiquement chez les travailleuses et les travailleurs québécois. Dans cet article, nous montrons que les trajectoires professionnelles des femmes et des hommes âgés de 50 ans et plus sont très différentes. Ainsi, les travailleuses ont l’intention de quitter beaucoup plus tôt le marché du travail que leurs confrères et de moins y revenir par la suite même si leurs conditions financières demeurent moins bonnes. La qualité de leur emploi (conditions psychologiques et physiques de travail) de même que leur situation personnelle (état de santé) expliquent en grande partie ces différences de genre. Chez les hommes, le revenu semble être le facteur le plus déterminant dans leurs intentions à l’égard de la retraite et la poursuite de la vie active.
Sommes-nous égaux devant l’« injonction » à participer ?
Authors: Gaudet Stéphanie , Turcotte Martin
Published: July 2013

Dans cet article, nous analysons les facteurs qui peuvent influencer inégalement l’accès à la participation, notamment les relations sociales et les contextes sociaux qui évoluent avec l’âge. Nous définissons la participation sociale comme pratique quotidienne que l’on mesure en fonction du temps que les citoyens consacrent au bénévolat, à l’action militante, politique ou délibérative au sein d’organisations et à la participation informelle qui prend la forme d’entraide au sein des réseaux personnels. À l’aide d’analyses transversales des données de l’Enquête sociale générale (ESG) sur l’emploi du temps (1992, 1998, 2005, 2010), nous analysons dans un premier temps le déclin du nombre de Canadiens qui consacrent du temps à la participation sociale formelle et informelle selon les périodes de vie. Dans un deuxième temps, nous utilisons le cycle 18 de l’ESG sur l’engagement social pour analyser les facteurs qui influencent inégalement la participation sociale et les chances d’être inclus dans des activités de participation sociale. Nous démontrons comment les personnes avec pour caractéristiques d’être jeunes, faiblement scolarisées, immigrantes ou possédant des réseaux peu diversifiés n’ont pas les mêmes chances de participer au sein de la société canadienne que les autres.
La politique sociale, l’amélioration des capabilités et la perspective du parcours de vie
Authors: Grey Alex
Published: July 2013

Le présent document se penche sur les liens possibles entre l’approche par les capabilités et la perspective du parcours de vie, dans le domaine de la politique sociale, dans l’optique des concepts clés qui sont au centre des deux cadres d’intervention, à savoir l’action individuelle, la multidimensionnalité et la longitudinalité. Il explore ensuite comment la perspective du parcours de vie peut permettre d’aborder deux des principaux défis analytiques qui sont associés à l’introduction de l’approche par les capabilités dans la politique sociale : la multidimensionnalité et la longitudinalité. Pour ce faire, on procède à trois niveaux clés de la politique sociale : le niveau conceptuel, la gestion des données probantes et l’évaluation de l’efficacité des programmes et des politiques. Le document met en lumière la contribution potentielle de la perspective du parcours de vie à la détermination de la causalité en utilisant le cadre élaboré par Bernard (1993), en particulier sa contribution quand on aborde la causalité dans le contexte de la multidimensionnalité et de la longitudinalité.
Risk terminology in biobanking and genetic research: What's in a name?
Authors: Quinn Gwendolyn P. , Castañeda Heide , Pal Tuya , Rice Janique L. , Meade Cathy D. , Gwede Clement K.
Published: July 2013

It is well established that the general public has varying interpretations of the term “risk” and the qualifiers associated with it, such as low, moderate, or high. What is less well known is how definition and application of this term impacts recruitment of individuals, particularly for biomedical and behavioral research designed to improve knowledge of and access to innovations in cancer genetics. This Commentary discusses the nomenclature used in bio‐behavioral research and the potential for confusion due to divergent meanings of risk and its associated categorizations. We discuss both our experience with recruitment of familial cancer families for a study on perceptions of biobanking as well as lessons learned from published examples where divergent understanding of risk levels, genetic research processes, and interpretation of results between community members and researchers result in misunderstandings for both parties. Ultimately, a critical challenge remains to ensure that accurate and mutually relevant risk terms are used in recruiting research participants and providing genetic results. Achieving this goal requires that regulations, policy, education, and practice change in step with rapid discoveries in genetic research to reduce misinterpretations resulting from lack of common understanding and specificity in risk terminology. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predictors of hemoglobin variability in a population of weaning age (3‐ to 4‐month old) rhesus monkeys
Authors: Golub Mari S. , Hogrefe Casey E.
Published: July 2013

Sources of variability in hemoglobin concentration in blood were examined in over 600 rhesus infants at the California National Primate Research Center who had complete blood counts (CBCs) conducted at 3–4 months of age. These infants were born and raised in outdoor social housing. Hemoglobin values ranged from 8.5 to 15.3 µg/dl with a mean and standard deviation of 12.2 ± 0.8 µg/dl. As expected, hemoglobin was strongly associated with the number of red blood cells (RBCs). Plasma protein concentration, an indicator of blood volume, was not a predictor. Associations with infant age, weight and sex, infant serum cortisol, dam's reproductive history, and birth year, month and location were evaluated in regression analyses. Cage of origin, maternal age at delivery and infant weight were associated with hemoglobin concentrations. Unexpectedly, serum cortisol, determined at the same time as CBC samples were taken, was the strongest predictor of hemoglobin concentration. The basis, as well as the functional significance, of the variation in infant hemoglobin and its association with serum cortisol in this population of rhesus fed a nutritionally optimized diet and housed under standard conditions is relevant to the development of both nonhuman and human primate infants. Am. J. Primatol. 75:1139–1146, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of the extractant on the hydrophilicity and performance of high‐density polyethylene/polyethylene‐b‐poly(ethylene glycol) blend membranes prepared via a thermally induced phase separation process
Authors: Shi Jun‐Li , Fang Li‐Feng , Zhang Hong , Liang Zhi‐Ying , Zhu Bao‐Ku , Zhu Li‐Ping
Published: July 2013

The blending of a block copolymer into the membrane matrix is a convenient and efficient way to modify membranes. In this study, high‐density polyethylene/polyethylene‐b‐poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) membranes were prepared via a thermally induced phase separation process, and the extractant effect was investigated. An interesting finding was that the nonpolar extractant (n‐hexane) was more conducive to the surface enrichment of the PEG chains than the polar solvent (ethanol). The reason was deemed to be the combined effect of the entropy drive, interfacial energy, and swelling behavior. In addition, the membrane performance related to the surface chemical properties was studied. The results suggest that the prepared blend membranes extracted by n‐hexane showed enhanced the hydrophilicity, antifouling properties, and water flux. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 3816–3824, 2013
Selective adsorption of Au3+ from aqueous solutions using persimmon powder‐formaldehyde resin
Authors: Xie Feng , Fan Zaijun , Zhang Qinglin , Luo Zhengrong
Published: July 2013

A new adsorption resin has been developed by immobilizing persimmon powder with formaldehyde, and its adsorption properties to Au3+ were investigated in detail. The resin exhibited outstanding selective adsorption capacity towards Au3+ from acidic aqueous solutions (pH 2.0), which the equilibrium adsorption capacity was high up to 3025.20 mg g−1 at 323 K. The resin exhibited 100% adsorption of Au3+ within 8 h, and the experimental data were well fitted with the pseudo‐first/second‐order rate model. The adsorption isotherms could be well described by Freundlich equation. The column studies suggested that the resin was effective for the adsorption of Au3+ from aqueous solutions, and the loaded Au3+ could be easily desorbed by acidic thiourea solution. The adsorption of Au3+ was an endothermic reductive adsorption process. This suggested that the resin can be used as an active biosorbent for the recovery of Au3+ from aqueous environment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 3937–3946, 2013
Y, Lu, and Gd Complexes of NCO/NCS Pincer Ligands: Synthesis, Characterization, and Catalysis in the cis‐1,4‐Selective Polymerization of Isoprene
Authors: Zhang Jingshun , Hao Zhiqiang , Gao Wei , Xin Lan , Zhang Lei , Mu Ying
Published: July 2013

A series of NCO/NCS pincer precursors, 3‐(Ar2OCH2)‐2‐Br‐(Ar1NCH)C6H3 ((Ar1NCOAr2)Br, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) and 3‐(2,6‐Me2C6H3SCH2)‐2‐Br‐(Ar1NCH)C6H3 ((Ar1NCSMe)Br, 4a and 4b) were synthesized and characterized. The reactions of [Ar1NCOAr2]Br/ [Ar1NCSMe]Br with nBuLi and the subsequent addition of the rare‐earth‐metal chlorides afforded their corresponding rare‐earth‐metal–pincer complexes, that is, [(Ar1NCOAr2)YCl2(thf)2] (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d), [(Ar1NCOAr2)LuCl2(thf)2] (6a, 6d), [(Ar1NCOAr2)GdCl2(thf)2] (7), [{(Ar1NCSMe)Y(μ‐Cl)}2{(μ‐Cl)Li(thf)2(μ‐Cl)}2] (8, 9), and [{(Ar1NCSMe)Gd(μ‐Cl)}2{(μ‐Cl)Li(thf)2(μ‐Cl)}2] (10, 11). These diamagnetic complexes were characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy and the molecular structures of compounds 5a, 6a, 7, and 10 were well‐established by X‐ray diffraction analysis. In compounds 5a, 6a, and 7, all of the metal centers adopted distorted pentagonal bipyramidal geometries with the NCO donors and two oxygen atoms from the coordinated THF molecules in equatorial positions and the two chlorine atoms in apical positions. Complex 10 is a dimer in which the two equal moieties are linked by two chlorine atoms and two ClLiCl bridges. In each part, the gadolinium atom adopts a distorted pentagonal bipyramidal geometry. Activated with alkylaluminum and borate, the gadolinium and yttrium complexes showed various activities towards the polymerization of isoprene, thereby affording highly cis‐1,4‐selective polyisoprene, whilst the NCOlutetium complexes were inert under the same conditions.
Individual differences in consumer value for mass customized products
Authors: Hunt David M. , Radford Scott K. , Evans Kenneth R.
Published: July 2013

Mass customized products, compared with mass marketed alternatives, offer advantages for optimizing performance outcomes, improving aesthetic appeal, and matching products' symbolic meanings with consumers' expressive desires. Despite having identified these value drivers for mass customized products, extant research has not connected those value drivers to individual differences among consumers. As a result, researchers' and practitioners' abilities to predict consumer value for mass customized products remain limited. This study advances and tests a model of individual differences associated with the perceived value of a customized product and mediated by involvement and perceived risk. A field survey administered to a sample of 240 participants provided data to test the model. Path analysis using structural equations modeling suggests that consumer value for mass customized products differs according to individual differences in need for uniqueness, need for optimization, and centrality of visual product aesthetics. Results also suggest that product category involvement and perceived risk are informative theoretical perspectives from which to study consumer value for mass customized products. The findings hold implications for how firms should approach the design of mass customization toolkits and how they should structure marketing communications promoting mass customized products. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alterations in circulating angiogenic and anti‐angiogenic factors in type 2 diabetic patients with neuropathy
Authors: Motawi Tarek Kamal , Rizk Sherine Maher , Ibrahim Ihab Abdel‐Rahman , El‐Emady Yasmin Farid
Published: July 2013

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is one of the most common diabetic chronic complications. There is an increased attention directed towards the role of angiogenic factors including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and anti‐angiogenic factors including soluble endoglin (sEng) as contributors to diabetic microvascular complications including neuropathy. The purposes of this study were to determine the role of these angiogenesis regulators in the prognosis of DPN.

The study group included 60 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and 20 clinically healthy individuals. The patients were divided into two groups. Group I included 20 T2DM patients without peripheral neuropathy, and Group II consisted of 40 T2DM patients with DPN. In all groups, plasma VEGF, sEng and endothelin‐1 (ET‐1), nitric oxide and ET‐1 mRNA were estimated.

Plasma levels of VEGF, sEng, ET‐1 and nitric oxide were significantly elevated in diabetic patients (Groups I and II) compared with healthy control subjects, with a higher increase in their levels in patients with DPN compared with diabetic patients without peripheral neuropathy.

Measurement of plasma levels of angiogenesis‐related biomarkers in high‐risk diabetic patients might identify who later develop DPN, thus providing opportunities for early detection and targets for novel treatments. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative effectiveness of drug‐eluting stents on long‐term outcomes in elderly patients treated for in‐stent restenosis: A report from the National Cardiovascular Data Registry
Authors: Kutcher Michael A. , Brennan J. Matthew , Rao Sunil V. , Dai David , Anstrom Kevin J. , Mustafa Nowwar , Sedrakyan Art , Booth Michael E. , Douglas Pamela S. , Messenger John C.
Published: July 2013

Objective

We assessed the long‐term outcomes of elderly patients who had in‐stent restenosis (ISR) treated with drug‐eluting stents (DES) compared with other treatment strategies.

Background

Elderly patients with ISR represent a vulnerable group of which little is known regarding the safety and efficacy of repeat percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

We analyzed patients ≥65 years of age who underwent PCI for ISR in the National Cardiovascular Data Registry® from 2004 to 2008. Death, myocardial infarction (MI), revascularization, stroke, and bleeding were assessed for up to 30 months by a linkage with Medicare rehospitalization claims.

Results

Of 43,679 linked patients, 30,012 were treated with DES, 8,277 with balloon angioplasty (BA), and 4,917 with bare metal stents (BMS). Compared with BMS, DES use was associated with a lower propensity score‐matched (PM) risk of death (hazard ratio [HR] 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.66–0.80, P < 0.001), MI (HR 0.81; 95% CI 0.70–0.93, P = 0.003), and revascularization (HR 0.90; 95% CI 0.82–1.00, P = 0.055). Compared with BA, DES use was associated with a lower PM risk of death (HR 0.82; 95% CI 0.76–0.89, P < 0.001) and revascularization (HR 0.86; 95% CI 0.80‐0.93, P < 0.001), but no statistically significant difference across other endpoints. There were no significant differences in long‐term outcomes for BA compared with BMS.

Conclusions

There was lower mortality and reduced risk for MI, revascularization, and stroke, but a similar rate of bleeding with DES compared with other modalities. Our results indicate that DES use is a comparatively effective strategy to treat elderly patients with ISR. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A simple preprocedural score for risk of contrast‐induced acute kidney injury after percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Chen Yong‐Li , Fu Nai‐Kuan , Xu Jing , Yang Shi‐Cheng , Li Shanshan , Liu Yuan‐Yuan , Cong Hong‐Liang
Published: July 2013

Objective

To develop a simple scoring system based on preprocedural clinical features that is capable of predicting contrast‐induced acute kidney injury (CI‐AKI) before percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

CI‐AKI is associated with increased in‐hospital morbidity and mortality, prolonged hospitalization, and long‐term renal impairment. Although several scoring methods have been developed to determine risk of CI‐AKI, no simple scoring method based on PCI preprocedural clinical features yet exists for Chinese patients.

Methods

A total of 2,500 Chinese patients were randomly and retrospectively assigned in a 3:2 manner to create a training and validation dataset, respectively. CI‐AKI was defined as an increase of ≥25% or ≥0.5 mg/dL serum creatinine within 5 days after PCI. Preprocedural clinical variables showing independent correlation to CI‐AKI were used to derive the risk score from the training dataset and then subsequently tested in the validation dataset. The odds ratios from multivariate logistic regression were used to assign a weighted integer to age ≥70 years = 4, history of myocardial infarction = 5, diabetes mellitus = 4, hypotension = 6, left ventricular ejection fraction ≤45% = 4, anemia = 3, creatinine clearance rate <60 mL/min = 7, decreased high‐density lipoprotein <1 mmol/L= 3, and urgent PCI = 3. Summation of the integers represented the total risk score.

Results

The overall incidence of CI‐AKI in the training dataset was 16.4% [246/1500; 5.4% for low (≤7) and 61.3% for very high (≥17) risk scores]. The rates of CI‐AKI, 1‐year dialysis, and 1‐year mortality increased significantly with each group (Cochran‐Armitage test of trend, P < 0.001). The risk score facilitated appropriate classification of patients with low and high risk for CI‐AKI after PCI in the validation dataset (c‐statistic = 0.82).

Conclusion

Risk classification based on the most significantly correlated parameters is useful for predicting CI‐AKI before contrast exposure. The simple preprocedural score showed excellent predictive ability for identifying patients at high risk of nephropathy and those with deteriorative prognosis after PCI. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improved laboratory resource utilization and patient care with the use of rapid on‐site evaluation for endobronchial ultrasound fine‐needle aspiration biopsy
Authors: Collins Brian T. , Chen Alexander C. , Wang Jeff F. , Bernadt Cory T. , Sanati Souzan
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

Endobronchial ultrasound guided (EBUS) fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy has become widely used to evaluate patients with thoracic abnormalities. Rapid on‐site evaluation (ROSE) can provide the bronchoscopist with immediate evaluation findings during the procedure. This study examines EBUS FNA biopsy procedures with and without ROSE, and investigates the impact of ROSE service on the EBUS procedure and laboratory resource utilization.

METHODS

The cytopathology database at Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, Missouri, was searched for EBUS FNA biopsy cases before and after introduction of ROSE service, and a matched cohort was collected. Reports were reviewed and pertinent data was collected, such as sites biopsied, ROSE performance, slide smears, cell blocks, and diagnostic categories. Statistical analysis of the results was performed.

RESULTS

A matched case‐controlled EBUS FNA cohort of 340 patients (680 total) for each category of non‐ROSE and ROSE service were identified. There was a 33% reduction in the number of sites biopsied with ROSE. A total of 68% of patients with ROSE had just one biopsy site compared to only 36% of non‐ROSE patients. There was a 30% decrease in total slides (mean, 5.27 slides) after the introduction of ROSE. All of these improvements were statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

EBUS FNA biopsy ROSE service benefits patients by contributing to significantly fewer biopsies and improved utilization of health care resources. ROSE service results in substantially fewer total slides, which has a significant impact on the cytopathology laboratory work effort. The use of ROSE for EBUS FNA biopsy provides significant improvements in patient care and laboratory resource utilization. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2013;121:544–551. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Synergistic Modification of Electronic and Photocatalytic Properties of TiO2 Nanotubes by Implantation of Au and N Atoms
Authors: Zhu Yingtao , Dai Ying , Lai Kangrong , Huang Baibiao
Published: July 2013

The structural and electronic properties of N‐doped, Au‐adsorbed, and Au/N co‐implanted TiO2 nanotubes (NTs) were investigated by performing first‐principle density functional theory (DFT) calculations. For all the possible implanted configurations, the radius and bond length do not change significantly relative to the clean NTs. Our results indicate that the introduction of N into NTs is in favor of implantation of Au, and Au pre‐adsorption on the NTs can also enhance the N concentration in NTs. The synergistic stability can be mainly attributed to charge transfer between Au and N atoms. In co‐implanted configurations, the empty N 2p states in the band gap are occupied by one electron; denoted by Au 5s states. Thus, the associated electron transition among the valence band, the conduction band and the gap states results in redshift of the light absorption. In addition, the disappearance of N 2p empty states can effectively decrease the photogenerated carrier combination. Therefore, the Au/N implanted NTs should be regarded as a promising photocatalytic material under the visible light region.
Amperometric Measurements at Cells Support a Role for Dynamin in the Dilation of the Fusion Pore during Exocytosis
Authors: Trouillon Raphaël , Ewing Andrew G.
Published: July 2013

Dynamin is a GTPase mechanochemical enzyme involved in the late steps of endocytosis, where it separates the endocytotic vesicle from the cell membrane. However, recent reports have emphasized its role in exocytosis. In this case, dynamin may contribute to the control of the exocytotic pore, thus suggesting a direct control on the efflux of neurotransmitters. Dynasore, a selective inhibitor of the GTPase activity of dynamin, was used to investigate the role of dynamin in exocytosis. Exocytosis was analyzed by amperometry, thus revealing that dynasore inhibits exocytosis in a dose‐dependent manner. Analysis of the exocytotic peaks shows that the inhibition of the GTPase activity of dynamin leads to shorter, smaller events. This observation, together with the rapid effect of dynasore, suggests that the blocking of the GTPase induces the formation of a more narrow and short‐lived fusion pore. These results suggest that the GTPase properties of dynamin are involved in the duration and kinetics of exocytotic release. Interestingly, and in strong contrast with its role in endocytosis, the mechanochemical properties of dynamin appear to contribute to the dilation and stability of the pore during exocytosis.
Theoretical Design of Strong Neutral Radical–Boron Adducts: Trisubstituted Boranes as Potential Radical Scavengers
Authors: Braïda Benoît , Derat Etienne , Chaquin Patrick
Published: July 2013

The conditions of formation of strong two‐center one‐electron bonds in neutral compounds are discussed. Both molecular orbital and valence bond analyses show that good candidates are adducts of radicals .AR3 (A=C, Si, Ge) of low ionization energy (IE) with boranes BX3 of high electron affinity (EA). This is confirmed by ab initio calculations. The bond energy of adducts of B(CF3)3 with various radicals ranges from 18 kcal mol−1 for .CH3 to approximately 40 kcal mol−1 for Me3Si., and a clear correlation with IE–EA difference is found. This allows one to expect B(CF3)3, among other fluoroboranes, to be an efficient radical scavenger.
Phylogenetic and morphometric analyses reveal ecophenotypic plasticity in freshwater musselsObovaria jacksonianaandVillosa arkansasensis(Bivalvia:Unionidae)
Authors: Inoue Kentaro , Hayes David M. , Harris John L. , Christian Alan D.
Published: July 2013

Freshwater mollusk shell morphology exhibits clinal variation along a stream continuum that has been termed the Law of Stream Distribution. We analyzed phylogenetic relationships and morphological similarity of two freshwater mussels (Bivalvia:Unionidae),Obovaria jacksonianaandVillosa arkansasensis, throughout their ranges. The objectives were to investigate phylogenetic structure and evolutionary divergence ofO. jacksonianaandV. arkansasensisand morphological similarity between the two species. Our analyses were the first explicit tests of phenotypic plasticity in shell morphologies using a combination of genetics and morphometrics. We conducted phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrialDNA(1416 bp; two genes) and morphometric analyses for 135 individuals ofO. jacksonianaandV. arkansasensisfrom 12 streams. We examined correlations among genetic, morphological, and spatial distances using Mantel tests. Molecular phylogenetic analyses revealed a monophyletic relationship betweenO. jacksonianaandV. arkansasensis. Within thisO. jacksoniana/V. arkansasensiscomplex, five distinct clades corresponding to drainage patterns showed high genetic divergence. Morphometric analysis revealed relative differences in shell morphologies between the two currently recognized species. We conclude that morphological differences between the two species are caused by ecophenotypic plasticity. A series of Mantel tests showed regional and local genetic isolation by distance. We observed clear positive correlations between morphological and geographic distances within a single drainage. We did not observe correlations between genetic and morphological distances. Phylogenetic analyses suggestO. jacksonianaandV. arkansasensisare synonomous and most closely related to a clade composed ofO. retusa,O. subrotunda, andO. unicolor. Therefore, the synonomousO. jacksonianaandV. arkansasensisshould be recognized asObovaria arkansasensis(Lea 1862) n. comb. Phylogenetic analyses also showed relative genetic isolation among drainages, suggesting no current gene flow. Further investigation of in‐progress speciation and/or cryptic species withinO. arkansasensisis warranted followed by appropriate revision of conservation management designations.
The effects of oasis ecosystem hydrological processes on soil salinization in the lower reaches of the Tarim River, China
Authors: Zhou Honghua , Li Weihong
Published: July 2013

On the basis of the characteristics of the oasis hydrological recycling processes in the lower reaches of the Tarim River, the impacts of surface water and groundwater on soil salt content were analyzed to determine how these processes affect soil salinization. The results showed that the relationship between surface water quality and soil salt content in the 0–50 cm layer of soil was significantly positive, with soil salt content declining as groundwater depths increased. However, there was no clear correlation between surface water and salt content in the 50–100 cm layer of soil. When the groundwater depth was <6 m, the soil salt content showed a high‐surface concentration, exhibiting a ‘T’ distribution and decreased with increasing soil depth in the order of 0–20 cm > 20–50 cm > 50–100 cm. However, with increasing groundwater depth (>6 m), soil salt loads were reduced and showed a ‘rhombus’ distribution, mainly accumulating in the middle layer in the order of 20–50 cm > 0–20 cm > 50–100 cm. When groundwater depth was greater than 6 m, the hardness, total dissolved solids (TDS), and conductance of the groundwater underwent a radical change. Thus, the critical threshold groundwater depth for condensing salt content in groundwater and changing soil salt load distributions was deemed to be 6 m. Salt accumulation in the 0–50 cm layer of soil was determined by the TDS volume in the groundwater when groundwater depth was shallow, which accounted for more than 90% of salt accumulation. However, salt accumulation was determined by the volume of TDS in irrigation water when groundwater depth increased. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Landscape‐scale carbon storage associated with beaver dams
Authors: Wohl Ellen
Published: July 2013

Beaver meadows form when beaver dams promote prolonged overbank flooding and floodplain retention of sediment and organic matter. Extensive beaver meadows form in broad, low‐gradient valley segments upstream from glacial terminal moraines. Surveyed sediment volume and total organic carbon content in beaver meadows on the eastern side of Rocky Mountain National Park are extrapolated to create a first‐order approximation of landscape‐scale carbon storage in these meadows relative to adjacent uplands. Differences in total organic carbon between abandoned and active beaver meadows suggest that valley‐bottom carbon storage has declined substantially as beaver have disappeared and meadows have dried. Relict beaver meadows represent ~8% of total carbon storage within the landscape, but the value was closer to 23% when beaver actively maintained wet meadows. These changes reflect the general magnitude of cumulative effects in heterotrophic respiration and organic matter oxidation associated with historical declines in beaver populations across the continent.
Four perspectives on climate feedbacks
Authors: Feldl N. , Roe G. H.
Published: July 2013

The spatial pattern of climate feedbacks depends on how the feedbacks are defined. We employ an idealized aquaplanet simulation with radiative kernels diagnosed for the precise model setup and characterize the meridional structure of feedbacks under four different definitions: local feedbacks, global feedbacks, nondimensional feedback factors, and relative humidity feedbacks. First, the spatial pattern of the reference response (i.e., the Planck feedback) is found to vary with definition, largely as a consequence of polar‐amplified warming, which affects other high‐latitude feedbacks as well. Second, locally defined feedbacks allow for decomposition of the surface temperature response as a function of feedbacks, forcing, and heat transport. Third, different insights into the dynamical and thermodynamical underpinnings of the subtropical moisture response are gained by comparing different versions of humidity feedbacks. Thus, alternative approaches to the conventional, global definition of feedbacks offer several advantages for understanding patterns of warming and, ultimately, regional climate predictability.
CYP2B6*6 is associated with increased breast cancer risk
Authors: Justenhoven Christina , Pentimalli Daniela , Rabstein Sylvia , Harth Volker , Lotz Anne , Pesch Beate , Brüning Thomas , Dörk Thilo , Schürmann Peter , Bogdanova Natalia , Park‐Simon Tjoung‐Won , Couch Fergus J. , Olson Janet E. , Fasching Peter A. , Beckmann Matthias W. , Häberle Lothar , Ekici Arif , Hall Per , Czene Kamilla , Liu Janjun , Li Jingmei , Baisch Christian , Hamann Ute , Ko Yon‐Dschun , Brauch Hiltrud
Published: July 2013

The cytochrome P450 2B6 (CYP2B6) is involved in the metabolism of testosterone. Functional changes in this enzyme may influence endogenous hormone exposure, which has been associated with risk of breast cancer. To assess potential associations between two functional polymorphisms CYP2B6_516_G>T (rs3745274) and CYP2B6_785_A>G (rs2279343) and breast cancer risk, we established a specific matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry assay. The GENICA breast cancer case–control study showed associations between the variant genotypes CYP2B6_516_TT and CYP2B6_785_GG and breast cancer risk with odds ratios (ORs) of 1.34 (p = 0.001) and 1.31 (p = 0.002), respectively. A similar effect was observed for carriers of the CYP2B6_516_T allele in a validation study including four independent studies from Germany, Sweden and USA. In a pooled analysis of all five studies involving 4,638 breast cancer cases and 3,594 controls of European ancestry, carriers of the CYP2B6_516_G and the CYP2B6_785_G variant had an increased breast cancer risk with ORs of 1.10 (p = 0.027) and 1.10 (p = 0.031), respectively. We conclude that the genetic variants CYP2B6_516_G and CYP2B6_785_G (designated CYP2B6*6), which are known to decrease activity of the CYP2B6 enzyme, contribute to an increased breast cancer risk.
miR‐134 induces oncogenicity and metastasis in head and neck carcinoma through targeting WWOX gene
Authors: Liu Chung‐Ji , Shen Wilma Grace , Peng Shih‐Yuan , Cheng Hui‐Wen , Kao Shou‐Yen , Lin Shu‐Chun , Chang Kuo‐Wei
Published: July 2013

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a prevalent disease worldwide, and the survival of HNSCC has not improved significantly over the last few decades. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have an important regulatory role during carcinogenesis. Our study investigated the pathogenic implications of miR‐134 in head and neck carcinogenesis. The clinicopathologic implications of miR‐134 in HNSCC were investigated using expression assays and the functional role of miR‐134 in HNSCC pathogenesis was determined using ectopic expression, knockdown and reporter assay experiments. Xenographic tumorigenesis and orthotopic nodal metastasis were assayed in mouse models. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of miR‐134 and the WWOX gene in human HNSCC. The results indicated that miR‐134 was upregulated in HNSCC tissues relative to control mucosa. High expression of miR‐134 was associated with nodal metastasis and mortality of patients. Decreased plasma miR‐134 levels after tumor ablation indicated a better prognosis for patients. Multivariate analysis showed that high miR‐134 expression in HNSCC was an independent predictor of poor survival. Ectopic miR‐134 expression significantly enhanced in vitro oncogenic phenotypes and the orthotopic growth and metastasis of HNSCC cells. miR‐134 targeted WW domain‐containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) gene and cell invasion enhanced by miR‐134 expression was abrogated by ectopic WWOX expression in HNSCC cells. miR‐134 expression was reversely associated with the WWOX expression in HNSCC tissues. Evidences from our study substantiated that miR‐134 expression contributes to head and neck carcinogenesis by targeting the WWOX.
Attachment Security in Three‐Year‐Olds who Entered Substitute Care in Infancy
Authors: Altenhofen Shannon , Clyman Robert , Little Christina , Baker Megan , Biringen Zeynep
Published: July 2013

This study assessed relations among number of out‐of‐home placement changes, time in caregivers’ care, caregiver type (i.e., foster parent, adoptive parent, kinship relation, and biological parent), child gender, and caregiver–child emotional availability (EA) as predictive of child attachment security when children were 3 years old in a sample of 104 caregivers and children. Children entered court‐ordered care by 6 months of age. On average, children at the age of 3 years spent 30 months with their caregivers, and nearly half of them were adopted by that time. Child attachment was assessed using the Attachment Q‐Set (E.E. Waters & K. Deane, 1985), and caregiver–child EA was assessed using the Emotional Availability Scales, fourth edition (Z. Biringen, 2008). Sixty‐six percent of children at age 3 years showed secure attachments with caregivers, and EA subscale scores also were relatively high on average. The study predictor variables of EA caregiver sensitivity, child responsiveness, and child involvement predicted attachment security, with girls more likely to be securely attached to their substitute caregivers at age 3 years than were boys. Study limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
Nociceptive phenotype of dorsal root ganglia neurons innervating the subchondral bone in rat knee joints
Authors: Aso K. , Ikeuchi M. , Izumi M. , Sugimura N. , Kato T. , Ushida T. , Tani T.
Published: July 2013

Background

The subchondral bone of the distal femur is a source of pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA) or spontaneous osteonecrosis of the knee. However, nociceptive phenotype of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons innervating the subchondral bone in rat knee joints has not been clarified.

Methods

Retrograde labelling was used to identify afferents innervating the subchondral bone of the distal femur and the knee joint in rats. The nociceptive phenotype markers [calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP), tyrosine receptor kinase A (TrkA), neurofilament 200 (NF200) and isolectin B4 (IB4)], segmental distribution and the soma size of backlabelled DRG neurons were examined. Furthermore, we evaluated the differences in nociceptive phenotype between the subchondral bone and the knee joint afferents.

Results

The majority (60%) of the subchondral bone afferents were localized in L3 DRGs and fewer in L4 and L5, while the knee joint afferents were localized mainly in L3 and L4. The percentage of CGRP immunoreactive (IR), TrkA‐IR, NF200‐IR and IB4‐binding neurons in the subchondral bone afferents were 50%, 65%, 35% and 0%, respectively. The percentage of CGRP‐IR and TrkA‐IR neurons in the subchondral bone afferents was significantly higher than that in the knee joint afferents, respectively (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The majority of sensory DRG neurons innervating the subchondral bone of the distal femur were CGRP‐IR and TrkA‐IR. It is expected that therapeutic approaches targeting CGRP and TrkA could be effective in attenuating pain from the subchondral bone in knee joints.
Predictors of Obligatory Exercise Among Undergraduates: Differential Implications for Counseling College Men and Women
Authors: Chalk Holly M. , Miller Sarah E. , Roach Megan E. , Schultheis Kara S.
Published: July 2013

This study examined predictors of obligatory exercise in college undergraduates (N= 172). Regression models indicated that internalization of Western attitudes toward appearance predicted exercise fixation and commitment in women, whereas perceived pressure from dating partners predicted exercise commitment in men. Findings suggest that men may respond more to peer pressure, whereas women may be more susceptible to internalized sociocultural pressure. Implications for differential assessment and treatment of college men and women are discussed.
An Interpersonal Psychotherapy Approach to Counseling Student Athletes: Clinical Implications of Athletic Identity
Authors: Heird Emily Benton , Steinfeldt Jesse A.
Published: July 2013

Research has shown that disruptive circumstances in an athlete's career (temporary injury, permanent injury, retirement) can pose significant difficulties, especially if the athlete has developed a salient athletic identity at the expense of a multidimensional self‐concept. The authors present an interpersonal psychotherapy approach to case conceptualization with student athletes that can be effective because of its brief nature and focus on grief, role transitions, interpersonal deficits, and interpersonal disputes.
Sex differences in cyclosporine pharmacokinetics and ABCB1 gene expression in mononuclear blood cells in African American and Caucasian renal transplant recipients
Authors: Tornatore Kathleen M. , Brazeau Daniel , Dole Kiran , Danison Ryan , Wilding Gregory , Leca Nicolae , Gundroo Aijaz , Gillis Kathryn , Zack Julia , DiFrancesco Robin , Venuto Rocco C.
Published: July 2013

Cyclosporine exhibits pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic variability in renal transplant recipients (RTR) attributed to P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp), an ABCB1 efflux transporter that influences bioavailability and intracellular distribution. Data on race and sex influences on P‐gp in RTR are lacking. We investigated sex and race influences on cyclosporine pharmacokinetics and ABCB1 gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Fifty‐four female and male African American and Caucasian stable RTR receiving cyclosporine and mycophenolic acid completed a 12‐hour study. ABCB1 gene expression was assessed in PBMCs pre‐dose and 4 hours after cyclosporine. Statistical analysis used mixed effects models on transformed, normalized ABCB1 expression and cyclosporine pharmacokinetics. Sex and race differences were observed for the dose‐normalized area under the concentration curve (AUC0–12/Dose) [P = .0004], apparent clearance [P = .0004] and clearance/body mass index (CL/BMI) [P = .027] with slowest clearance and greatest drug exposure in females. Sex and race differences were found pre‐dose and 4 hours for ABCB1 [P < .0001] with females having less expression than males. ABCB1 differences were observed between pre‐dose and 4 hours [P = .0009]. Female RTR had slower cyclosporine clearance and lower ABCB1 gene expression in PBMC suggesting reduced efflux activity and greater intracellular drug exposure.