bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Integrated Framework for Web Services Orchestration
Authors: Saab C. Boutrous , Coulibaly D. , Haddad S. , Melliti T. , Moreaux P. , Rampacek S.
Published: November 2013

Currently, Web services give place to active research and this is due both to industrial and theoretical factors. On one hand, Web services are essential as the design model of applications dedicated to the electronic business. On the other hand, this model aims to become one of the major formalisms for the design of distributed and cooperative applications in an open environment (the Internet). In this article, the authors will focus on two features of Web services. The first one concerns the interaction problem: given the interaction protocol of a Web service described in BPEL, how to generate the appropriate client? Their approach is based on a formal semantics for BPEL via process algebra and yields an algorithm which decides whether such a client exists and synthetize the description of this client as a (timed) automaton. The second one concerns the design process of a service. They propose a method which proceeds by two successive refinements: first the service is described via UML, then refined in a BPEL model and finally enlarged with JAVA code using JCSWL, a new language that we introduce here. Their solutions are integrated in a service development framework that will be presented in a synthetic way.
An Efficient Service Discovery Method and its Application
Authors: Deng Shuiguang , Wu Zhaohui , Wu Jian
Published: November 2013

To discover services efficiently has been regarded as one of important issues in the area of Service Oriented Computing (SOC). This article carries out a survey on the issue and points out the problems for the current semantic-based service discovery approaches. After that, an information model for registered services is proposed. Based on the model, it brings forward a two-phase semantic-based service discovery method which supports both the operation matchmaking and operation-composition matchmaking. Th authors import the bipartite graph matching to improve the efficiency of matchmaking. An implementation of the proposed method is presented. A series of experiments show that the method gains better performance on both discovery recall rate and precision than a traditional matchmaker and it also scales well with the number of services being accessed.
A Survey on Feature Based Image Retrieval Techniques
Authors: Shao Ling
Published: November 2013

In this chapter, we review classical and state of the art Content-Based Image Retrieval algorithms. Techniques on representing and extracting visual features, such as color, shape, and texture, are first presented. Several well-known image retrieval systems using those features are also summarized. Then, two recent trends on image retrieval, namely semantic based methods and local invariant regions based methods, are discussed. We analyze the drawbacks of current approaches and propose directions for future work.
Towards a Unified Multimedia Metadata Management Solution
Authors: Amir Samir , Bilasco Ioan Marius , Sharif Md. Haidar , Djeraba Chabane
Published: November 2013

With increasing use of multimedia in various domains, several metadata standards appeared these last decades in order to facilitate the manipulation of multimedia contents. These standards help consumers to search content they desire and to adapt the retrieved content according to consumers’ profiles and preferences. However, in order to extract information from a given standard, a user must have a pre-knowledge about this latest. This condition is not easy to satisfy due to the increasing number of available standards. In this chapter, we introduce some of the main de facto multimedia standards that cover the description, by means of metadata, of the content and of the use context (profiles, devices, networks…). We discuss then the benefits of proposing an integrated vision of multimedia metadata standards through the usage of a generic multimedia metadata integration system, and we expose the challenges of its implementation.
Personal Smart Cards
Authors: Taniguchi Gustavo , Duarte Fábio
Published: November 2013

An effective information management is one of the most valuable assets of any organization, including public administration. Database integration from various municipal Information Systems is an essential tool for urban and strategic planning. The city of Curitiba, Brazil, has implemented several Information Systems to enhance its public services, from education to health care—most of these systems use several non-integrated personal smart cards to provide access to services. In this chapter we analyze some public Information Systems in use in Curitiba, and their inputs and outputs. We also advocate that the personal smart card already used in the metropolitan transportation system only as a fare collection card, is, among all others, the best option, from a technological and administrative standpoint, to integrate all municipal Information Systems, improving the effectiveness of public services and assisting for a comprehensive planning process.
Die voorsienigheidsleer vanuit die gereformeerde belydenisskrifte teenoor Adrio König se voorsienigheidsleer – ’n Dogma-historiese beoordeling
Authors: Diedericks Morné , Coetzee Carel F.C.
Published: November 2013

König is ’n aktuele en invloedryke teoloog en sy standpunte kan nie geïgnoreer word nie (Strauss 2004:123). König (2002:13) beskou homself as ’n gereformeerde teoloog alhoewel sy voorsienigheidsleer van die klassieke gereformeerde siening verskil. In sommige gevalle word König se teologie as reformatories gesien (bv. sy leer oor die regverdigmaking) en in ander gevalle weer nie, byvoorbeeld die leer oor die voorsienigheid (Strauss 2004:139). Volgens König (2002:33) is die klassieke gereformeerde verstaan van die voorsienigheid nie werklik vertroostend nie. Die klassieke gereformeerde siening van die voorsienigheid maak volgens König van God ’n bose God wat die kwaad beskik en dan net toekyk as die kwaad gebeur. König (2002:237) se oplossing vir die probleem van die klassieke gereformeerde siening is dat God nie ten volle in beheer is nie, maar dat Hy eendag eers in beheer sal kom. Hierdie siening van König is in stryd met die gereformeerde belydenis waarin bely word dat God deur sy voorsienige hand alle dinge onderhou en regeer. Die gevolgtrekking is dat König se voorsienigheidsleer in die lig van die gereformeerde belydenis nie vertroostend is of kan wees nie en net meer verwarring en wanhoop veroorsaak.König is a contemporary and influential theologian and his views can not be ignored (Strauss 2004:123). König (2002:13) regards himself as a reformed theologian, but his doctrine on providence differs from the classic reformed view. In some cases, König’s theology is viewed as reformed (eg. his doctrine on justification) but not in all cases, as is the case with the doctrine on providence (Strauss 2004:139). According to König (2002:33) the classic reformed understanding of providence is not comforting. Also, according to König, the classic reformed view of providence indicates God as an evil God who ordains evil, and then sits back and watches as it unfolds. König’s (2002:237) solution for the problem of the classic reformed view is that God is not fully in control, but that He only will be in control one day. This view of König is in conflict with the reformed confession which confesses that God through his providential hand maintains and governs all things. The conclusion is that König’s doctrine of providence is not comforting in the light of the reformed confession, and that it only causes more confusion and despair.
Slope Failure Hazard in the Atlantic Provinces: A Review
Authors: Spooner Ian , Batterson Martin , Catto Norm , Liverman David , Broster Bruce , Kearns Kim , Isenor Fenton , MacAskill Wayne
Published: November 2013

Slope failures present a common hazard throughout the world and have considerable impact on transportation, forestry, coastal and urban development, and other human activities. Although little recognized in much of Atlantic Canada, mass movements have resulted in as many as 71 fatalities in Newfoundland. Due to the high relief of Newfoundland, rockfalls have caused several fatalities and damage to property is frequent. In the Ferryland disaster of ca. 1823, 42 fishermen were reportedly killed when a cave roof collapsed onto them. Debris torrents and flows are widespread particularly in areas of higher relief in Newfoundland and Cape Breton Island, and tend to be most hazardous for highway engineering and community development. Typically, a thin cover of till or colluvium overlies a steeply sloping and polished bedrock substrate. Failure is generally triggered by rainfall events. Rotational slumps of glaciomarine clays are particularly evident along the major river valleys of Labrador and are an important consideration for hydroelectric development such as along the lower Churchill River. Numerous sackungs have been identified, notably in the ultramafic rocks of western Newfoundland. In other areas of Atlantic Canada, earthflows frequently affect transportation routes and commonly involve movement of saturated sediment during spring thaw. Along the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Northumberland Strait and the Bay of Fundy coastlines, the combination of friable Carboniferous and Permian sediments, glaciotectonic activity, frost wedging, and coastal erosion has resulted in numerous small failures, along with incremental retreat of coastal cliffs. Ongoing climate change will have an impact on slope failure activity. The pattern of increasing summer frequency and intensity of thunderstorms and hurricane events, increased winter precipitation in some locations, and more erratic freeze-thaw events during late winter and spring, will result in an increase in debris torrents triggered by precipitation, and rockfalls triggered by freeze-thaw. Human utilization of coastal areas for recreation and residential construction is also increasing both the frequency and hazard of slope failures across Atlantic Canada.
Discrepancies of surface temperature trends in the CMIP5 simulations and observations on the global and regional scales
Authors: Zhao L. , Xu J. , Powell Jr. A. M.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Using the fifth Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) model simulations and two observational datasets, the surface temperature trends and their discrepancies have been examined. The temporal-spatial characteristics for the surface temperature trends are discussed. Different from a constant estimated linear trend for the entire simulation period of 1850–2012, a dynamical trend using running linear least squares fitting with the moving 10 yr time windows are calculated. The results show that the CMIP5 model simulations are generally in good agreement with the observational measurements for the global scale warming, but the temperature trends depend on the temporal change and the regional differences. Generally, contrary to the small discrepancies on the global scale, the large discrepancies are observed in the south- and north-polar regions and other sub-regions.
Implications of accounting for land use in simulations of ecosystem carbon cycling in Africa
Authors: Lindeskog M. , Arneth A. , Bondeau A. , Waha K. , Seaquist J. , Olin S. , Smith B.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Dynamic global vegetation models (DGVMs) are important tools for modelling impacts of global change on ecosystem services. However, most models do not take full account of human land management and land use and land cover changes (LULCCs). We integrated croplands and pasture and their management and natural vegetation recovery and succession following cropland abandonment into the LPJ-GUESS DGVM. The revised model was applied to Africa as a case study to investigate the implications of accounting for land use on net ecosystem carbon balance (NECB) and the skill of the model in describing agricultural production and reproducing trends and patterns in vegetation structure and function. The seasonality of modelled monthly fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (FPAR) was shown to agree well with satellite-inferred normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI). In regions with a large proportion of cropland, the managed land addition improved the FPAR vs. NDVI fit significantly. Modelled 1991–1995 average yields for the seven most important African crops, representing potential optimal yields limited only by climate forcings, were generally higher than reported FAO yields by a factor of 2–6, similar to previous yield gap estimates. Modelled inter-annual yield variations during 1971–2005 generally agreed well with FAO statistics, especially in regions with pronounced climate seasonality. Modelled land–atmosphere carbon fluxes for Africa associated with land use change (0.07 PgC yr−1 release to the atmosphere for the 1980s) agreed well with previous estimates. Cropland management options (residue removal, grass as cover crop) were shown to be important to the land–atmosphere carbon flux for the 20th century.
Early forest fire detection using low-energy hydrogen sensors
Authors: Nörthemann K. , Bienge J.-E. , Müller J. , Moritz W.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Most huge forest fires start in partial combustion. In the beginning of a smouldering fire, emission of hydrogen in low concentration occurs. Therefore, hydrogen can be used to detect forest fires before open flames are visible and high temperatures are generated. We have developed a hydrogen sensor comprising of a metal/solid electrolyte/insulator/semiconductor (MEIS) structure which allows an economical production. Due to the low energy consumption, an autarkic working unit in the forest was established. In this contribution, first experiments are shown demonstrating the possibility to detect forest fires at a very early stage using the hydrogen sensor.
The role of water on postcombustion CO2 capture by vacuum swing adsorption: Bed layering and purge to feed ratio
Authors: Li Gang , Xiao Penny , Zhang Jun , Webley Paul A. , Xu Dong
Published: November 2013

The influence of water vapor on the adsorption of CO2 in carbon capture by vacuum swing adsorption (VSA) was described. VSA experiments with single and multilayered columns using alumina and zeolite 13X were conducted to understand the migration of water. The penetration depth of water in the column could be controlled by maintaining the purge‐to‐feed ratio above a critical value. At high water content in the feed (>4%), employment of a water adsorbing prelayer was essential to prevent failure of the carbon capture process. A simple axial working capacity model predicts the penetration depth of water in the column for a given feed temperature and adsorption isotherm, and the layering ratio can be selected accordingly. Although water is detrimental to CO2 capture with polar adsorbents, long‐term recovery of CO2 is still possible by appropriate layering and ensuring an adequate purge‐to‐feed ratio. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J 60: 673–689, 2014
Structural, optical, and conductive properties of a poly(styrene)‐b‐poly(thiophene) copolymer doped with fullerenes under different conditions
Authors: Politakos Nikolaos , Grana Eftychia , Zalakain Iñaki , Katsigiannopoulos Dimitrios , Eceiza Arantxa , Kortaberria Galder , Avgeropoulos Apostolos
Published: November 2013

In this manuscript mixtures of a poly(styrene)‐b‐poly(thiophene) (PS‐b‐PT) copolymer with fullerenes (C60) as a dopant were prepared in order to evaluate their optical/surface properties through optical microscopy (OM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements respectively, as well as their conductivity through the four probe technique under variable conditions such as: temperature (room temperature and 150°C), solvent (toluene and chlorobenzene) and dopant concentration (2 and 5 wt %). The results exhibited that thermal treatment; solvent polarity and dopant concentration influence significantly the optical absorbance values. Ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy (UV‐Vis) was also adopted to examine the optical absorbance of the mixtures and how it can be affected by the structures obtained in each case. The results for the variables involved in this study were very interesting and led to significant conclusions concerning the potential application of the proposed mixture for improved organic solar cells. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40084.
A GHF7 CELLULASE FROM THE PROTIST SYMBIONT COMMUNITY OF Reticulitermes flavipes ENABLES MORE EFFICIENT LIGNOCELLULOSE PROCESSING BY HOST ENZYMES
Authors: Sethi Amit , Kovaleva Elena S. , Slack Jeffrey M. , Brown Susan , Buchman George W. , Scharf Michael E.
Published: November 2013

Termites and their gut microbial symbionts efficiently degrade lignocellulose into fermentable monosaccharides. This study examined three glycosyl hydrolase family 7 (GHF7) cellulases from protist symbionts of the termite Reticulitermes flavipes. We tested the hypotheses that three GHF7 cellulases (GHF7‐3, GHF7‐5, and GHF7‐6) can function synergistically with three host digestive enzymes and a fungal cellulase preparation. Full‐length cDNA sequences of the three GHF7s were assembled and their protist origins confirmed through a combination of quantitative PCR and cellobiohydrolase (CBH) activity assays. Recombinant versions of the three GHF7s were generated using a baculovirus‐insect expression system and their activity toward several model substrates compared with and without metallic cofactors. GHF7‐3 was the most active of the three cellulases; it exhibited a combination of CBH, endoglucanase (EGase), and β‐glucosidase activities that were optimal around pH 7 and 30°C, and enhanced by calcium chloride and zinc sulfate. Lignocellulose saccharification assays were then done using various combinations of the three GHF7s along with a host EGase (Cell‐1), beta‐glucosidase (β‐glu), and laccase (LacA). GHF7‐3 was the only GHF7 to enhance glucose release by Cell‐1 and β‐glu. Finally, GHF7‐3, Cell‐1, and β‐glu were individually tested with a commercial fungal cellulase preparation in lignocellulose saccharification assays, but only β‐glu appreciably enhanced glucose release. Our hypothesis that protist GHF7 cellulases are capable of synergistic interactions with host termite digestive enzymes is supported only in the case of GHF7‐3. These findings suggest that not all protist cellulases will enhance saccharification by cocktails of other termite or fungal lignocellulases.
What Happened to the Liberal Arts?
Authors: Hanson Chad
Published: November 2013

This chapter describes some of the forces that worked to move the 2‐year college away from the liberal arts and toward vocational programs. The analysis centers on agencies that made job training a priority.
Discovering History at the Community College
Authors: Tai Emily Sohmer
Published: November 2013

Many of the history courses community college students take are fairly broad and ostensibly generic surveys of world, Western European, or American history. This chapter discusses an array of innovative practices that enable students to better appreciate how studying history can help them master the challenges—and reap the benefits—of a liberal arts education.
Sources on Liberal Arts in the Community College
Authors: Kanny M. Allison
Published: November 2013

This chapter provides an annotated bibliography of articles about liberal arts education in the contemporary community college. It also provides links to websites featuring related information.
Turbidimetry for the stability evaluation of emulsions used in machining industry
Authors: Glasse Benjamin , Assenhaimer Cristhiane , Guardani Roberto , Fritsching Udo
Published: November 2013

Emulsified fluids are used in many industrial and consumer areas, for instance as products in the food or health industry as well as technical fluids in the machining industry. Metalworking fluids (MWF) are used as coolants and lubricants in metalworking processes. During their usage MWF emulsions may change their physical and chemical properties, which influences their performance and decrease the physical stability and therefore their lifetime. This article discusses results of turbidimetric spectra measurement of MWF emulsions to be used for process control, MWF quality monitoring and formulation purposes. Therefore, laboratory experiments have been carried out investigating the physical stability. Metal working emulsions have been treated and destabilised by different concentrations of salts. The destabilisation process was monitored by undiluted turbidity measurements and evaluated by the temporal change of the wavelength exponent. Thus, it was possible to determine specific conditions, for example a specific critical salt concentration for maintaining, stability of the MWF formulations.
The insular auditory field receives input from the lemniscal subdivision of the auditory thalamus in mice
Authors: Takemoto Makoto , Hasegawa Kayoko , Nishimura Masataka , Song Wen‐Jie
Published: November 2013

The insular cortex plays important roles in vocal communication, but the origin of auditory input to the insular cortex has not been fully clarified. Here we studied the auditory thalamic input to the insular cortex using mice as a model system. An insular auditory field (IAF) has recently been identified in mice. By using retrograde neuronal tracing, we identified auditory thalamic neurons projecting to the IAF, primary auditory cortex (AI), and anterior auditory field (AAF). After mapping the IAF, AAF, and AI by using optical imaging, we injected a distinct fluorescent tracer into each of the three fields at frequency‐matched locations. Tracer injection into the IAF resulted in retrogradely labeled cells localized ventromedially in the lemniscal division, i.e., the ventral subdivision of the medial geniculate body (MGv). Cells retrogradely labeled by injections into the AAF were primarily found in the medial half of the MGv, whereas those from AI injections were located in the lateral half, although some of these two subsets were intermingled within the MGv. Interestingly, retrogradely labeled cells projecting to the IAF showed virtually no overlap with those projecting to the AAF or the AI. Dual tracer injections into two sites responding to low‐ and high‐frequency tones within each of the three auditory fields demonstrated topographic organizations in all three thalamocortical projections. These results indicate that the IAF receives thalamic input from the MGv in a topographic manner, and that the MGv–IAF projection is parallel to the MGv–AAF and MGv–AI projections. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:1373–1389, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
C. elegans nuclear receptor NHR‐6 functionally interacts with the jun‐1 transcription factor during spermatheca development
Authors: Gissendanner Chris R. , Cardin Derrick , DuBose Chris J. , El Sayed Moustafa , Harmson Jeremy S. , Praslicka Brandon , Rowan Brian G.
Published: November 2013

The NR4A nuclear receptor NHR‐6 is an essential regulator of spermatheca organogenesis in C. elegans. In this study, we perform a focused, RNAi‐based screen to identify modifiers of partial nhr‐6 loss of function. Ninety‐eight genes that encode signaling proteins expressed in the spermatheca were screened for enhancement of the nhr‐6 RNAi phenotype. We identify the C. elegans gene jun‐1, which encodes the homolog of the Jun transcription factor, as a strong enhancer of nhr‐6 partial loss of function. We show that nhr‐6 and jun‐1 function together to regulate development of the spermatheca and are necessary for generating an organ with the normal number of cells. jun‐1 is expressed in all cells of the developing spermatheca. We also provide evidence that NHR‐6 and JUN‐1 can physically interact in a yeast two‐hybrid assay. Our results provide in vivo evidence that NR4A nuclear receptor and Jun transcription factor interactions are essential in regulating developmental processes in metazoans. genesis 52:29–38, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Establishing a case for improved food phenolic analysis
Authors: Lee Jungmin
Published: November 2013

Future phenolic research findings using a multidisciplinary approach will ensure profitability and sustainability of specialty crop industries, while also improving the nutritional and economic choices available to increasingly health‐ and environmentally conscious consumers. Recent examples of phenolics used in commercial and research scenarios, and new phenolic research discoveries are discussed. Despite being a heavily researched topic, there remains a need to identify, develop, and define analyses targeted for specific quality‐related plant metabolites.
Matrix metalloproteinase‐7 and matrix metalloproteinase‐25 in oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Mäkinen Laura K. , Häyry Valtteri , Hagström Jaana , Sorsa Timo , Passador–Santos Fabricio , Keski–Säntti Harri , Haukka Jari , Mäkitie Antti A. , Haglund Caj , Atula Timo
Published: November 2013

Background

Predicting the clinical course of early‐stage oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is challenging. As matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes associated with invasion, metastasis, and poor survival in many cancers, we examined MMP‐7 and MMP‐25 in oral tongue SCC.

Methods

We used tissue microarray (TMA) technique and immunohistochemistry to study the expression of MMP‐7 and MMP‐25 in 73 patients with stage I to II oral tongue SCC and compared their immunoexpressions with clinical data.

Results

Immunohistochemistry revealed MMP‐7 and MMP‐25 expression in 90% (n = 63 of 70) and 90% (n = 64 of 71) of the tumors, respectively. MMP‐7 protein expression was associated with presence of occult cervical metastases (odds ratio [OR], 3.67; p = .013), increased invasion depth (OR, 4.60; p = .005), and higher tumor grade (OR, 3.30; p = .007). MMP‐7 expression was predictive for poor outcome (p = .021). Immunostaining of MMP‐25 did not correlate with any clinical parameters.

Conclusion

We conclude that MMP‐7, but not MMP‐25, expression may have prognostic significance in early‐stage oral tongue SCC. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 1783–1788, 2014
Mesenchymal stem cell response to conformal sputter deposited calcium phosphate thin films on nanostructured titanium surfaces
Authors: McCafferty Mura M. , Burke George A. , Meenan Brian J.
Published: November 2013

Biomaterial surfaces that can directly induce the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) present an exciting strategy for bone tissue engineering and offers significant benefits for improving the repair or replacement of damaged or lost bone tissue. In this study, titanium nanostructures with distinctive topographical features were produced by radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The response of MSCs to the nanostructured titanium (Ti) surfaces before and after augmentation by a sputter deposited calcium phosphate (CaP) coating has been investigated. The sputtered CaP has the characteristics of a calcium enriched hydroxyapatite surface layer, as determined by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction studies. The sputter deposited Ti has a polycrystalline surface morphology, as confirmed by atomic force microscopy, and CaP layers deposited thereon (TiCaP) conform to this topography. The effects of these surfaces on MSC focal adhesion formation, actin cytoskeleton organization and Runx2 gene expression were examined. The Ti and TiCaP surfaces were found to promote changes in MSC morphology and adhesion known to be associated with subsequent downstream osteogenic differentiation; however, the equivalent events were not as pronounced on the CaP surface. A significant increase in Runx2 expression was observed for CaP compared to Ti, but no such difference was seen between either Ti and TiCaP, nor CaP and TiCaP. Importantly, the Ti surface engendered the expected contribution of nanoscale features to the MSC response; moreover, the CaP layer when used in combination with this topography has been found to cause no adverse effects in respect of MSC behavior. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 3585–3597, 2014.
Heparin modification of a biomimetic bone matrix for controlled release of VEGF
Authors: Knaack Sven , Lode Anja , Hoyer Birgit , Rösen‐Wolff Angela , Gabrielyan Anastasia , Roeder Ingo , Gelinsky Michael
Published: November 2013

Bone regeneration using tissue engineered constructs requires strategies to effectively stimulate vascularization within such a construct that is crucial for its supply and integration with the host tissue. In this work, porous scaffolds of a collagen/hydroxyapatite nanocomposite were modified with heparin to generate biomimetic bone matrices which are able to release angiogenic factors in a controlled manner. Heparin was either integrated during material synthesis (in situ) or added to the scaffolds after their fabrication (post). Both approaches resulted in stable incorporation of heparin into the matrix of mineralized collagen. Investigations of binding and release of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF‐A165) loaded onto the scaffolds revealed an enhanced binding capacity as well as a sustained and nearly constant delivery of VEGF as result of both heparin modification methods. The release rate could be controlled by varying the quantity of incorporated heparin and the modification method. Although the biological activity of VEGF released after 7 days from the unmodified scaffolds was reduced in comparison to control VEGF, it was maintained after release from post or even enhanced after release from in situ modified scaffolds. In conclusion, the heparin‐modified scaffolds of mineralized collagen exhibited favorable growth factor binding and release properties and may be beneficial to stimulate vascularization. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 3500–3511, 2014.
Titania nanotubes dimensions‐dependent protein adsorption and its effect on the growth of osteoblasts
Authors: Yang Weihu , Xi Xingfeng , Shen Xinkun , Liu Peng , Hu Yan , Cai Kaiyong
Published: November 2013

In this study, we report the influence of titania nanotubes (TiNTs) dimensions on the adsorption of collagen (COL) and fibronectin (FN), and its subsequent effect on the growth of osteoblasts. TiNTs with different diameters of around 30 and 100 nm were prepared with anodization. The adsorption profiles of proteins and cell behaviors were evaluated using spectrophotometric measurement, immunofluorescence staining, cell viability, and cytoskeleton morphology, respectively. The results showed that although the growth of osteoblasts was highly sensitive to the dimensions TiNTs, the preadsorbed COL and FN could reduce the difference. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation results confirmed that the main driving force for protein adsorption was the physical adsorption. The TiNTs with bigger dimensions had higher interaction energies, and thus leading to higher proteins (COL and FN) adsorption and obvious influences on cell behaviors. MD simulation revealed that the orientation and conformation of proteins adsorbed onto surfaces of TiNTs was critical for cell integrins to recognize specific sites. When FN molecules adsorbed onto the surfaces of TiNTs, their RGD (Arg‐Gly‐Asp) sites were easily exposed to outside and more likely to bond with the fibronectin receptors, in turn regulating the cellular behaviors. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 3598–3608, 2014.
Lactobacillus plantarumCECT 7527, 7528 and 7529: probiotic candidates to reduce cholesterol levels
Authors: Bosch Montserrat , Fuentes Mari C , Audivert Sergi , Bonachera Miquel A , Peiró Sara , Cuñé Jordi
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND

Hypercholesterolaemia plays a key role in the development and progression of coronary artery disease. There are numerous drugs available to treat this condition but they are often expensive and can have unwanted side effects. Therefore, a screening of lactic acid bacteria to select candidate probiotic strains to reduce cholesterol levels was carried out. Three Lactobacillus plantarum strains (CECT 7527, 7528 and 7529) were selected as potential probiotics to reduce cholesterol levels after conducting several in vitro tests for demonstrating the functionalities of the strains according to international guidelines.

RESULTS

The three strains showed a high ability to survive under gastrointestinal tract conditions and to adhere to intestinal cells. Regarding lipid metabolism, the strains showed a great production of bile salt hydrolase, especially when combined. Moreover, the strains assimilated cholesterol directly from the medium. Part of the cholesterol present in the medium was removed via binding onto the bacterial cellular surface. Finally, the three strains, especially CECT 7529, produce large quantities of propionic and butyric acids.

CONCLUSION

Combined, these characteristics suggest that these strains could be excellent candidates for reducing high blood cholesterol levels. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Perceived vocal fatigue and effort in relation to laryngeal functional measures in paresis patients
Authors: Stager Sheila V. , Bielamowicz Steven A.
Published: November 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine if differences in objective measures of laryngeal function can meaningfully explain different levels of self‐perceptions of effort or fatigue in patients with vocal fold paresis.

Study Design

A retrospective chart review of 72 patients with vocal fold paresis diagnosed using laryngeal electromyography, who had either been observed (n = 21), treated only by injection (n = 24), or treated only by surgery (n = 27).

Methods

Before and after treatment/observation, patients' subjective ratings of severity of vocal effort and fatigue were assessed using the Glottal Function Index. Laryngeal function was assessed using maximum phonation time and translaryngeal flow.

Results

None of the variables demonstrated a significant linear change across time. Post hoc Tukey analyses following analysis of variance (ANOVA) found significant differences in flow among three groups, those rating symptoms of effort as no problem, moderate problem, or severe problem. Post hoc Tukey analyses following ANOVA found significant differences in the amount that flow changed among three groups, those demonstrating no difference, minor differences, or major differences in ratings of effort before and after treatment.

Conclusions

Changes in reported symptom severity of effort were related to changes in translaryngeal midvowel flow that were not explained by passage of time.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:1631–1637, 2014
Identification of carotenoids using mass spectrometry
Authors: Rivera Sol M. , Christou Paul , Canela‐Garayoa Ramon
Published: November 2013

The present review compiles positive MS fragmentation data of selected carotenoids obtained using various ionization techniques and matrices. In addition, new experimental data from the analysis of carotenoids in transgenic maize and rice callus are provided. Several carotenes and oxygen‐functionalized carotenoids containing epoxy, hydroxyl, and ketone groups were ionized by atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI)‐tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) in positive ion mode. Thus, on the basis of the information obtained from the literature and our own experiments, we identified characteristic carotenoid ions that can be associated to functional groups in the structures of these compounds. In addition, pigments with a very similar structure were differentiated through comparison of the intensities of their fragments. The data provide a basis for the structural elucidation of carotenoids by mass spectrometry (MS). © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 33: 353–372, 2014
Strategic Involuntary Teacher Transfers and Teacher Performance: Examining Equity and Efficiency
Authors: Grissom Jason A. , Loeb Susanna , Nakashima Nathaniel A.
Published: November 2013

Despite claims that school districts need flexibility in teacher assignment to allocate teachers more equitably across schools and improve district performance, the power to involuntarily transfer teachers across schools remains hotly contested. Little research has examined involuntary teacher transfer policies or their effects on schools, teachers, or students. This article uses administrative data from Miami‐Dade County Public Schools to investigate the implementation and effects of the district's involuntary transfer policy, including which schools transferred and received teachers, which teachers were transferred, what kinds of teachers replaced them in their former schools, and how their performance—as measured by their work absences and value‐added in math and reading—compared before and after the transfer. We find that, under the policy, principals in the lowest performing schools identified relatively low‐performing teachers for transfer who, based on observable characteristics, would have been unlikely to leave on their own. Consistent with an equity improvement, we find that involuntarily transferred teachers were systematically moved to higher performing schools and generally were outperformed by the teachers who replaced them. Efficiency impacts are mixed; although transferred teachers had nearly two fewer absences per year in their new positions, transferred teachers continued to have low value‐added in their new schools.
Analysis of serum insulin growth factor‐1 concentrations in localized osteosarcoma: A children's oncology group study
Authors: Borinstein Scott C. , Barkauskas Donald A. , Bernstein Mark , Goorin Allen , Gorlick Richard , Krailo Mark , Schwartz Cindy L. , Wexler Leonard H. , Toretsky Jeffrey A.
Published: November 2013

To investigate the role of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1), in localized osteosarcoma, serum levels of IGF‐1, IGFBP‐2, and IGFBP‐3 were measured in 224 similarly treated, newly diagnosed patients. We demonstrated that younger patients had lower concentrations of IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 compared to older (P < 0.001) along with lower IGFBP‐3:IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐2:IGF‐1 ratios (P < 0.001). IGFBP‐2 did not correlate with age (P = 0.16), yet IGFBP‐2:IGF‐1 ratios were higher in the younger population (P < 0.001). These findings show that older patients have higher concentrations of free IGF‐1. None of IGF‐1, IGFBP‐2, nor IGFBP‐3 concentrations were associated with event‐free nor overall survival. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:749–752. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Concordance between the chang and the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) ototoxicity grading scales in patients treated with cisplatin for medulloblastoma
Authors: Bass Johnnie K. , Huang Jie , Onar‐Thomas Arzu , Chang Kay W. , Bhagat Shaum P. , Chintagumpala Murali , Bartels Ute , Gururangan Sridharan , Hassall Tim , Heath John A. , McCowage Geoffrey , Cohn Richard J. , Fisher Michael J. , Robinson Giles , Broniscer Alberto , Gajjar Amar , Gurney James G.
Published: November 2013

Background

Reporting ototoxicity is frequently complicated by use of various ototoxicity criteria. The International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) ototoxicity grading scale was recently proposed for standardized use in reporting hearing loss outcomes across institutions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the concordance between the Chang and SIOP ototoxicity grading scales. Differences between the two scales were identified and the implications these differences may have in the clinical setting were discussed.

Procedures

Audiological evaluations were reviewed for 379 patients with newly diagnosed medulloblastoma (ages 3–21 years). Each patient was enrolled on one of two St. Jude clinical protocols that included craniospinal radiation therapy and four courses of 75 mg/m2 cisplatin chemotherapy. The latest audiogram conducted 5.5–24.5 months post‐protocol treatment initiation was graded using the Chang and SIOP ototoxicity criteria. Clinically significant hearing loss was defined as Chang grade ≥2a and SIOP ≥2. Hearing loss was considered serious (requiring a hearing aid) at the level of Chang grade ≥2b and SIOP ≥3.

Results

A strong concordance was observed between the Chang and SIOP ototoxicity scales (Stuart's tau‐c statistic = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.86, 0.91). Among those patients diagnosed with serious hearing loss, the two scales were in good agreement. However, the scales deviated from one another in classifying patients with less serious or no hearing loss.

Conclusions

Although discrepancies between the Chang and SIOP ototoxicity scales exist primarily for patients with no or minimal hearing loss, the scales share a strong concordance overall. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:601–605. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Review of Inhaled Nitric Oxide and Aerosolized Epoprostenol in Acute Lung Injury or Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Dzierba Amy L. , Abel Erik E. , Buckley Mitchell S. , Lat Ishaq
Published: November 2013

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and acute lung injury (ALI) are conditions associated with an estimated mortality of 40–50%. The use of inhaled vasodilators can help to improve oxygenation without hemodynamic effects. This article reviews relevant studies addressing the safety and efficacy of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) and aerosolized epoprostenol (aEPO) in the treatment of life‐threatening hypoxemia associated with ARDS and ALI. In addition, the article also provides a practicable guide to the clinical application of these therapies. Nine prospective randomized controlled trials were included for iNO reporting on changes in oxygenation or clinical outcomes. Seven reports of aEPO were examined for changes in oxygenation. Based on currently available data, the use of either iNO or aEPO is safe to use in patients with ALI or ARDS to transiently improve oxygenation. No differences have been observed in survival, ventilator‐free days, or attenuation in disease severity. Further studies with consistent end points using standard delivery devices and standard modes of mechanical ventilation are needed to determine the overall benefit with iNO or aEPO.
Correlation analysis of ductus venosus velocity indices and fetal cardiac function
Authors: Sanapo L. , Turan O. M. , Turan S. , Ton J. , Atlas M. , Baschat A. A.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To examine the relationships between the ductus venosus (DV) pulsatility index for veins (PIV), individual DV velocity ratios and diastolic and global myocardial cardiac function.

Methods

Doppler measurements of the DV, atrioventricular (AV) valves and ventricular in‐ and outflow were analyzed. The DV‐PIV and velocity ratios for individual phases (systole (S), end‐systolic relaxation (v), early diastole (D), atrial systole (a), and S/v, S/D, S/a, v/D, v/a and D/a ratios) were calculated. The ratio of early and late diastolic peak velocities across AV valves was calculated (E/A ratio). Left modified myocardial performance index (MPI) was calculated from time intervals between valve clicks defining isovolumetric contraction/relaxation and ejection times. All values were transformed to Z‐scores. The distributions of DV velocity ratios and DV‐PIV were correlated with cardiac Doppler parameters.

Results

A total of 1163 examinations from 213 fetuses, most of which were at risk for cardiac dysfunction, were included in the study. In 742 the PIV was normal and in 421 PIV was elevated > 2 SD above the normal mean. The DV‐PIV correlated with velocity ratios (P < 0.0001) but not with E/A ratios and the MPI. S/v and v/D ratios were related to tricuspid and mitral E/A ratios and left ventricular MPI. The S/D ratio was only related to both E/A ratios. There was no relationship between a‐wave‐related velocity ratios and cardiac function.

Conclusions

Velocity ratios of the DV show relationships with cardiac function that are not reflected by the PIV alone. In cases of suspected fetal cardiac dysfunction based on elevated DV‐PIV, analysis of velocity ratios or direct cardiac evaluation is suggested to determine the underlying pathophysiology. Copyright © 2013 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
The effect of frequency of telemetry locations on movement‐rate calculations in arctic caribou
Authors: Prichard Alexander K. , Yokel David A. , Rea Caryn L. , Person Brian T. , Parrett Lincoln S.
Published: November 2013

There is a trade‐off between the frequency of telemetry locations (fix interval) and battery life when using Global Positioning System (GPS) collars. In general, decreasing the fix interval lowers the effective battery life of the collar. However, the strong relationship between fix interval and movement metrics is often underappreciated. Mean movement rates, maximum movement rates, total distance estimates, and some screening algorithms change dramatically with different fix intervals, particularly for highly mobile animals such as caribou (Rangifer tarandus), and must be interpreted in relation to the fix interval used to collect the data. We used a multi‐year, high‐resolution data set from GPS collars with 2‐hr fix intervals deployed on female caribou of the Teshekpuk Caribou Herd, Alaska, USA, 2006–2011, to examine the effect of fix interval on estimates of movement metrics. By calculating straight‐line distances between locations taken at different fix intervals, we examined the rate of change in various metrics of caribou movement as a function of fix interval. We also calculated correction factors for different fix intervals, and examined how they changed seasonally. We fit an equation to the maximum rate of movement of caribou as a function of fix interval and used this equation in a modification of one screening algorithm to assess how it is affected by fix interval. We demonstrate how the maximum speed equation could potentially be used to derive a modified filter for telemetry data from highly mobile animals. Our results highlight the importance of incorporating fix‐interval information into comparisons of movement metrics from different herds and time periods. © 2013 The Wildlife Society.
NNLOPS simulation of Higgs boson production
Authors: Hamilton Keith , Nason Paolo , Re Emanuele , Zanderighi Giulia
Published: November 2013

Abstract

We detail a simulation of Higgs boson production via gluon fusion, accurate at next-to-next-to-leading order in the strong coupling, including matching to a parton shower, yielding a fully exclusive, hadron-level description of the final-state. The approach relies on the Powheg method for merging the NLO Higgs plus jet cross-section with the parton shower, and on the Minlo method to simultaneously achieve NLO accuracy for inclusive Higgs boson production. The NNLO accuracy is reached by a reweighting procedure making use of the Hnnlo program.
Gender, Turning Points, and Boomerangs: Returning Home in Young Adulthood in Great Britain
Authors: Stone Juliet , Berrington Ann , Falkingham Jane
Published: November 2013

The idea of a generation of young adults “boomeranging” back to the parental home has gained widespread currency in the British popular press. However, there is little empirical research identifying either increasing rates of returning home or the factors associated with this trend. This article addresses this gap in the literature using data from a long-running household panel survey to examine the occurrence and determinants of returning to the parental home. We take advantage of the longitudinal design of the British Household Panel Survey (1991–2008) and situate returning home in the context of other life-course transitions. We demonstrate how turning points in an individual’s life course—such as leaving full-time education, unemployment, or partnership dissolution—are key determinants of returning home. An increasingly unpredictable labor market means that employment cannot be taken for granted following university graduation, and returning home upon completion of higher education is becoming normative. We also find that gender moderates the relationship among partnership dissolution, parenthood, and returning to the parental home, reflecting the differential welfare support in Great Britain for single parents compared with nonresident fathers and childless young adults.