bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymmetrical distribution of antennal sensilla in the female Anastatus japonicus Ashmead (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae)
Authors: Meng Zhao Jun , Yan Shan Chun , Yang Chuan Ping , Ruan Chang Chun
Published: April 2012

Anastatus japonicus Ashmead (Hymenoptera: Eupelmidae) is an important egg parasitoid of several major insect pests. To better understand its host finding mechanisms, the antennal sensilla of female wasp were investigated by scanning electron microscopy. Sensilla chaetica were found mainly on radicle and pedicel segments of the antennae. i‐Type sensilla, s. campaniformia, and corneous sensilla were detected on the leeward side, while s. coeloconica and lance sensilla were presented on the windward side of the antennae. S. trichodea and s. basiconica were more abundant on the leeward side than on the windward side of the antennae. More s. placodea were found on the windward side than on the leeward side of the right antenna, while the opposite results were observed on the left antenna. Overall, more s. placodea were found on the right antenna than that on the left antenna. The numbers of s. trichodea and s. basiconica on the clava or the third flagellum antennomere of the right antenna were more than those of the left antenna, whereas their distribution patterns on the other corresponding antennomeres were reverse. Our results showed that there is a strong asymmetrical antennal sensilla distribution quantitatively and spatially between the left and right antennae. Placoid sensilla are present more on the right antenna than on the left antenna. S. campaniformia, corneous sensilla, and i‐type sensilla were found only on the leeward side of the antennal clava, while their external morphology and potential functions were described and discussed in detail for the first time. Microsc. Res. Tech. 75:1066–1075, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Partition coefficients for gadolinium chelates in the normal myocardium: Comparison of gadopentetate dimeglumine and gadobenate dimeglumine
Authors: Kawel Nadine , Nacif Marcelo , Santini Francesco , Liu Songtao , Bremerich Jens , Arai Andrew E. , Bluemke David A.
Published: April 2012

Purpose:

To evaluate the influence of contrast agents with different relaxivity on the partition coefficient (λ) and timing of equilibration using a modified Look‐Locker inversion recovery (MOLLI) sequence in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Materials and Methods:

MOLLI was acquired in 20 healthy subjects (1.5T) at the mid‐ventricular short axis precontrast and 5, 10, 20, 25, and 30 minutes after administration of a bolus of 0.15 mmol/kg gadobenate dimeglumine (Gd‐BOPTA) (n = 10) or gadopentetate dimeglumine (Gd‐DTPA) (n = 10). T1 times were measured in myocardium and blood pool. λ was approximated by ΔR1myocardium/ΔR1blood. Values for Gd‐BOPTA and Gd‐DTPA were compared. Interobserver agreement was evaluated (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]).

Results:

T1 times of myocardium and blood pool (P < 0.001) and λ (0.42 ± 0.03 and 0.47 ± 0.04, respectively, P < 0.001; excluding 5 minutes for Gd‐BOPTA) were significantly lower for Gd‐BOPTA than Gd‐DTPA. The λ(Gd‐DTPA) showed no significant variation between 5 and 30 minutes. The λ(Gd‐BOPTA) values were significantly lower at 5 minutes compared to other times (0.38 vs. 0.42; P < 0.05). Interobserver agreement for λ values was excellent with Gd‐BOPTA (ICC = 0.818) and good for Gd‐DTPA (ICC = 0.631).

Conclusion:

The λ(Gd‐BOPTA) values were significantly lower compared to λ(Gd‐DTPA) at the same administered dose. Using Gd‐BOPTA, the equilibrium between myocardium and blood pool was not achieved at 5 minutes postcontrast. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;36:733–737. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Methylmalonate impairs mitochondrial respiration supported by NADH‐linked substrates: Involvement of mitochondrial glutamate metabolism
Authors: Melo Daniela R. , Mirandola Sandra R. , Assunção Nilson A. , Castilho Roger F.
Published: April 2012

The neurodegeneration that occurs in methylmalonic acidemia is proposed to be associated with impairment of mitochondrial oxidative metabolism resulting from methylmalonate (MMA) accumulation. The present study evaluated the effects of MMA on oxygen consumption by isolated rat brain mitochondria in the presence of NADH‐linked substrates (α‐ketoglutarate, citrate, isocitrate, glutamate, malate, and pyruvate). Respiration supported either by glutamate or glutamate plus malate was significantly inhibited by MMA (1–10 mM), whereas no inhibition was observed when a cocktail of NADH‐linked substrates was used. Measurements of glutamate transport revealed that the inhibitory effect of MMA on respiration maintained by this substrate is not due to inhibition of its mitochondrial uptake. In light of this result, the effect of MMA on the activity of relevant enzymes involved in mitochondrial glutamate metabolism was investigated. MMA had minor inhibitory effects on glutamate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase, whereas α‐ketoglutarate dehydrogenase was significantly inhibited by this metabolite (Ki = 3.65 mM). Moreover, measurements of α‐ketoglutarate transport and mitochondrial MMA accumulation indicated that MMA/α‐ketoglutarate exchange depletes mitochondria from this substrate, which may further contribute to the inhibition of glutamate‐sustained respiration. To study the effect of chronic in vivo MMA treatment on mitochondrial function, young rats were intraperitoneally injected with MMA. No significant difference was observed in respiration between isolated brain mitochondria from control and MMA‐treated rats, indicating that in vivo MMA treatment did not lead to permanent mitochondrial respiratory defects. Taken together, these findings indicate that the inhibitory effect of MMA on mitochondrial oxidative metabolism can be ascribed to concurrent inhibition of specific enzymes and lower availability of respiratory substrates. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of rainfall and temperature trends in northeast India
Authors: Jain S. K. , Kumar Vijay , Saharia M.
Published: April 2012

The northeast region (NER) of India covers an area of 0.26 million km2. This region is one of the highest rainfall‐receiving regions on the planet. Consequently, it has huge water and hydropower potential and analysis of rainfall and temperature trends would be of interest to water and energy planners. Trends in monthly, seasonal, and annual rainfall and temperature on the subdivision and regional scale for the NER were examined in this study. Trend analysis of rainfall data series for 1871–2008 did not show any clear trend for the region as a whole, although there are seasonal trends for some seasons and for some hydro‐meteorological subdivisions. Similar analysis for temperature data showed that all the four temperature variables (maximum, minimum, and mean temperatures and temperature range) had rising trend. Notably for the post‐monsoon season, the Sen's estimator of slope ( °C/year) was 0.019, 0.011, and 0.015 for the maximum, minimum, and mean temperature, respectively. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Is double inactivation of the Nf1 gene responsible for the development of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia associated with NF1?
Authors: Lee Sang Min , Choi In Ho , Lee Dong Yeon , Lee Hye Ran , Park Moon Seok , Yoo Won Joon , Chung Chin Youb , Cho Tae‐Joon
Published: April 2012

The pathogenic mechanism responsible for congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) is not well understood although the possibility of double inactivation of the neurofibromatosis type 1 (Nf1) gene has been suggested. In the present study, loss of heterozygosity was investigated in fibrous hamartoma tissues harvested from 16 patients with CPT associated with NF1 using four genetic markers that span the Nf1 gene. Based on the assumption that a single cell with double inactivation of Nf1 would undergo clonal growth and cause fibrous hamartoma, we investigated clonality in fibrous hamartoma tissues by analyzing X‐chromosome inactivation patterns in 11 female patients. Loss of Nf1 heterozygosity in fibrous hamartoma tissues was observed at one or two genetic markers in 4 out of the 16 patients tested. In clonality assays, 3 of 11 patients showed a clonal growth pattern, 5 a non‐clonal pattern, and 3 were non‐informative. These findings support that double inactivation of the Nf1 gene and subsequent clonal growth could be a pathogenic feature of the fibrous hamartoma tissue at least in some of the CPT but might not be essential requirements of CPT development. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1535–1540, 2012
Healthy food from organic wheat: choice of genotypes for production and breeding
Authors: Hussain Abrar , Larsson Hans , Kuktaite Ramune , Johansson Eva
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: In the present study, 40 wheat genotypes were grown in the same soil in organic farming system trials in Alnarp, Sweden. The purpose was to evaluate opportunities for production and breeding of organic wheat of high nutritious value.

RESULTS: The results showed a large variation in content of minerals, total tocochromanols and heavy metals in the grain of 40 organically produced wheat genotypes. Principal component and cluster analysis were used as tools for selection of the most suitable genotypes for production and breeding of organic wheat of high nutritious value. No single genotype group was found particularly superior from the studied material to produce this specific type of wheat. However, certain genotypes from different groups were found with promising nutritional characters. The most promising genotypes as related to nutritionally relevant compounds were 6356 spelt, Triticum monococcum, Ölands 17 borst spelt, Lv Dal 16 brun borst and Fylgia.

CONCLUSION: By choosing these genotypes for organic production and future wheat breeding, nutritionally improved organic wheat products might be developed. However, for future breeding, nutritional components such as protein, fibre, glycaemic index and B‐group vitamins should also be considered. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of habitat features and hunter behavior on white‐tailed deer harvest
Authors: Lebel François , Dussault Christian , Massé Ariane , Côté Steeve D.
Published: April 2012

Sport hunting may help in controlling cervid populations over large areas. As with natural predators, several environmental factors can influence sport harvest. A better understanding of the environmental variables that limit the efficiency of sport hunting could provide guidelines for more efficient wildlife management using hunting. We studied white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) hunting on a high deer density island where hunting was the sole form of predation. Our objective was to study the behavior of sport hunters and determine the habitat characteristics (e.g., abundance of deer forage, visibility of the deer from the hunter's point of view, and accessibility of the territory to hunters) that are associated with a successful harvest. We collected movements and harvest site location data from 477 hunters equipped with handheld Global Positioning System (GPS) units. Harvest sites were visited and characterized, along with a paired random site, to determine the environmental conditions associated with a successful hunt. We also developed a model to predict the daily number of deer seen by hunters considering weather conditions, hunter characteristics (e.g., age, experience), and date of hunting. We used the mean number of deer seen per hunter per day as a relative index of local density in each hunted territory. At both the site and landscape scales, the combination of visibility and access had a positive effect on the distribution of harvested deer. Habitat types with less visual obstruction from vegetation enabled hunters to see more deer in a given day. At the site scale, harvested deer were located in areas with a lower density of access routes compared to areas where hunters travelled throughout the day. Using an innovative approach of studying hunter behavior with GPS technology, digital maps, and questionnaires, we highlighted the factors associated with hunter success. Our study suggests that habitat characteristics could be modified to increase harvest by improving accessibility and visibility near roads. Creating openings in mature and regenerating forest near access roads could make sport hunting a more efficient management tool, but the potential impact of increased forage availability in forest openings should not be overlooked. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
A comparison of methods for estimating raccoon abundance: Implications for disease vaccination programs
Authors: Beasley James C. , Beatty William S. , Atwood Todd C. , Johnson Shylo R. , Rhodes Olin E.
Published: April 2012

Accurate estimates of demographic parameters are critical to the management of wildlife populations, including management programs focused on controlling the spread of zoonotic diseases. Rabies managers in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) have applied a simple raccoon (Procyon lotor) abundance index (RAI) based on cumulative catch of unique raccoons per unit area to determine vaccine‐bait distribution densities. This approach was designed to allow for both the collection of biological samples and to index raccoon abundance to determine bait densities for oral rabies programs. However, post‐baiting surveillance data indicate that, on average, only 30% of raccoons sampled have vaccine induced rabies antibody titers, suggesting that bait densities may not be well calibrated to raccoon densities. We trapped raccoons using both capture‐mark‐recapture (CMR) and the standard RAI to evaluate the accuracy of the current index‐based methodology for estimating raccoon density. We then developed a resource selection function from spatial data collected from radio‐collared raccoons to standardize trap placement within the existing RAI protocol, and evaluated the performance of this modified RAI approach relative to CMR for estimating raccoon population size. Both abundance and density estimates derived using the RAI consistently underestimated raccoon population sizes compared with CMR methods. Similarly, although the use of resource selection models to inform trap placement appeared to improve the accuracy of the RAI, the effectiveness of this method was inconsistent because of an inability to account for variance in detection probabilities. Despite the logistical advantages of using indices to estimate population parameters to determine vaccine bait distribution densities, our results suggest that adjustments may be necessary to more accurately quantify raccoon abundance, which should improve the effectiveness of rabies management in the United States. In particular, estimates of detection probabilities are needed to more precisely quantify abundance estimates and ensure appropriate vaccine coverage rates. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Wound botulism presenting as a deep neck space infection
Authors: Gouveia Christopher , Mookherjee Somnath , Russell Matthew S.
Published: April 2012

Otolaryngologists commonly evaluate patients with findings suspicious for deep space soft tissue infections of the neck. In this case, a woman with a history of injection drug use (IDU) presented with dysphagia, odynophagia, and neck pain. Multiple neck abscesses, too small to drain, were seen on imaging. Despite broad‐spectrum intravenous antibiotics, she unexpectedly and rapidly developed respiratory failure requiring intubation. Further work‐up diagnosed wound botulism (WB). To our knowledge, this is the first report of WB presenting as a deep neck space infection, and illustrates the importance of considering this deadly diagnosis in patients with IDU history and bulbar symptoms.
Prevertebral tendinitis: How to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions
Authors: Hammer Georg Philipp , Vollmann Robert , Tomazic Peter Valentin , Simbrunner Josef , Friedrich Gerhard
Published: April 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Prevertebral tendinitis is an inflammatory process that affects the cervicothoracic prevertebral muscles. Because of its clinical presentation and imaging features in computed tomography scans, prevertebral tendinitis can easily be mistaken for deep cervical abscess formation. Totally different therapy regimens require clinical and diagnostic pathways for sufficient differentiation between those two pathologic entities.

Study Design:

Case series with comparison.

Methods:

In 10 patients with prevertebral tendinitis, we evaluated the symptoms, laboratory reports, and radiological imaging findings. We compared these data to 65 patients with a deep cervical abscess formation. The basic radiologic imaging procedure was contrast‐enhanced computed tomography. For detection of prevertebral tendinitis, we performed magnetic resonance imaging with diffusion‐weighted images and calculated the apparent diffusion coefficient map.

Results:

Patients with prevertebral tendinitis complained of severe neck pain, globus sensation, and neck stiffness. Diffusion‐weighted images showed a typical benign prevertebral effusion. Computed tomography scans showed amorphous calcifications in the tendon of the prevertebral muscles. The C‐reactive protein values were slightly increased in patients with prevertebral tendinitis, and white blood cell count remained normal. In comparison to patients with deep cervical abscess formation, the C‐reactive protein and white blood cell count was significantly lower (P < .05) in the prevertebral tendinitis cases.

Conclusions:

Prevertebral tendinitis should be considered when patients suffer from neck pain, neck stiffness, and globus sensations despite low signs of inflammation in the laboratory report. To confirm the diagnosis, the best imaging feature is magnetic resonance imaging with diffusion‐weighted images and apparent diffusion coefficient map. Laryngoscope, 2012
Temporal patterns of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma recurrence with positron‐emission tomography/computed tomography monitoring
Authors: Beswick Daniel M. , Gooding William E. , Johnson Jonas T. , Branstetter Barton F.
Published: April 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To estimate the distribution of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) recurrence after definitive chemoradiation therapy (CRT) among patients who underwent 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron‐emission tomography and computed tomography (PET/CT) surveillance.

Study Design:

Retrospective review.

Methods:

HNSCC patients who underwent definitive CRT from 2001 to 2008 were evaluated for recurrence with serial PET/CT. Patients were excluded if they were previously treated for recurrent disease, were treated with surgery as the primary therapeutic modality, or had inadequate clinical follow‐up. Recurrence was defined by histopathologic evidence of tumor.

Results:

Three hundred eighty‐eight patients were studied. Patients in whom recurrence was not detected were followed clinically and radiographically for a median of 27 months. Tumor recurrence was detected in 110 patients. For 37 patients, recurrence was heralded by clinical signs. Among the 73 asymptomatic patients who had a confirmed recurrence, disease was detected by PET/CT between 2 and 43 months, median of 6 months. Forty‐five percent of observed asymptomatic recurrences were detected during the first 6 months of surveillance (95% confidence interval [CI], 34%‐57%), 79% within the first 12 months (95% CI, 68%‐88%), 95% within the first 24 months (95% CI, 87%‐98%), and 100% within the first 48 months (95% CI, 95%‐100%).

Conclusions:

Among HNSCC patients followed with PET/CT surveillance, 95% of observed asymptomatic recurrences were detected within 24 months after completing CRT. For patients without clinical signs of recurrence, routine PET/CT surveillance beyond the first 24 months may be of limited value and may not be cost effective. Laryngoscope, 2012
What is “Success” following surgery for obstructive sleep apnea? The effect of different polysomnographic scoring systems
Authors: Hobson Jonathan C. , Robinson Sam , Antic Nick A. , McEvoy R. Doug , Windler Samantha , MacKay Stuart , Carney A. Simon
Published: April 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To illustrate that the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is dependent on the polysomnographic scoring criteria used, and the success rates of treatments for OSA are dependent on the defined outcome measures.

Study Design:

Retrospective case series with prospective reanalysis of polysomnographic data.

Methods:

Consecutively treated adult patients (N = 40) with moderate to severe OSA having multilevel pharyngeal surgery in 2007 were studied. All patients underwent submucosal lingualplasty and concurrent or previous uvulopalatopharyngoplasty ± palatal advancement. Full polysomnography (PSG) was performed preoperatively and at a mean of 145 days postoperatively. Pre‐ and postoperative PSG data were analyzed by two different but widely used scoring systems for the apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI): The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) 1999 Chicago criteria and the AASM 2007 recommended criteria.

Results:

Follow‐up PSG data were available in 31 of 40 patients. Successful surgery was defined as a reduction in AHIRec <20 with a 50% reduction from the patient's baseline, and in this group the surgical intervention was associated with a 72.2% success rate. If, however, differing AHI metrics are used or the absolute or percent reduction used to define a successful outcome is changed, then the rate of surgical success is shown to range from 39% to 92%.

Conclusions:

Different criteria for measuring AHI and defining success following OSA surgery can produce widely conflicting outcome data. Reported results following OSA surgery should be interpreted with this in mind. Using acceptable criteria, multilevel sleep surgery can be demonstrated to be of benefit to the majority of carefully selected patients. Laryngoscope, 2012
Low‐intensity laser irradiation at 660 nm stimulates cytochrome c oxidase in stressed fibroblast cells
Authors: Houreld Nicolette N. , Masha Roland T. , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: April 2012

Background and Objective

Low‐intensity laser irradiation (LILI) has been used to modulate a variety of biological processes, including diabetic wound healing. The mechanism of action is thought to exist primarily with the mitochondria. This study aimed to determine the effect of irradiation on normal, diabetic, and ischemic mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) complexes.

Materials and Methods

Normal, diabetic and ischemic human skin fibroblast mitochondria were irradiated in vitro at a wavelength of 660 nm and a fluence of either 5 or 15 J/cm2. Non‐irradiated mitochondria served as controls. Enzyme activities of mitochondrial complexes I, II, III, and IV were determined immediately post‐irradiation. Normal, diabetic, and ischemic cells were irradiated and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and active mitochondria were determined by luminescence and fluorescent microscopy, respectively.

Results

Irradiated diabetic mitochondria at a fluence of 15 J/cm2 showed a significant decrease in complex III activity (P < 0.05). Normal (P < 0.01) and diabetic (P < 0.05) mitochondria irradiated at either 5 or 15 J/cm2 showed a significant increase in complex IV activity. ATP results showed a significant increase in irradiated normal cells (5 J/cm2; P < 0.05) and diabetic cells (15 J/cm2; P < 0.01). There was a higher accumulation of active mitochondria in irradiated cells than non‐irradiated cells.

Conclusion

Irradiation at 660 nm has the ability to influence mitochondrial enzyme activity, in particular cytochrome c oxidase. This leads to increased mitochondrial activity and ATP synthesis. Lasers Surg. Med. 44: 429–434, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantification of venous vessel size in human brain in response to hypercapnia and hyperoxia using magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Shen Yuji , Pu Ida M. , Ahearn Trevor , Clemence Matthew , Schwarzbauer Christian
Published: April 2012

Hypercapnia and hyperoxia give rise to vasodilation and vasoconstriction, respectively. This study investigates the influence of hypercapnia and hyperoxia on venous vessel size in the human brain. Venous vessel radii were measured in response to hypercapnia and hyperoxia. The venous vessel radii were determined by calculation of the changes in R2* and R2 that are induced by breathing 6% CO2 or pure oxygen. The experimental paradigm consisted of two 3‐min intervals of inhaling 6% CO2 or 100% O2 interleaved with three 2‐min intervals of breathing air. Hypercapnic and hyperoxic experiments were performed on eight subjects on a 3T scanner. Parametric maps of mean venous vessel radius were calculated from the changes in R2* and R2, which were measured by simultaneous acquisition of gradient‐echo and spin‐echo signals. The mean venous vessel radii in hypercapnia were 7.3 ± 0.3 μm in gray matter and 6.6 ± 0.5 μm in white matter. The corresponding vessel radii in hyperoxia were 5.6 ± 0.2 μm in gray matter and 5.4 ± 0.2 μm in white matter. These results show that the venous vessel radius was larger in hypercapnia than that in hyperoxia in both gray matter and white matter (P < 0.005), which agrees with the hypothesis that hypercapnia causes vasodilation and hyperoxia induces vasoconstriction. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ε‐Caprolactone polymerization under air by the biocatalyst: Magnesium 2,6‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐methylphenoxide
Authors: Fang Hsin‐Jou , Lai Ping‐Shan , Chen Jia‐Yun , Hsu Sodio C. N. , Peng Wei‐De , Ou Siou‐Wei , Lai Yi‐Chun , Chen Yen‐Jen , Chung Hsuan , Chen Yun , Huang Ta‐Chou , Wu Bo‐Sheng , Chen Hsuan‐Ying
Published: April 2012

This study investigated the synthesis of the biocatalyst, magnesium 2,6‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐methylphenoxide (Mg(BHT)2) complex, and the ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of ε‐caprolactone (CL). The complex demonstrates high catalytic activity and controllable of molecular weight for the ROP of CL in tetrahydrofuran at room temperature, even when polymerization was performed under air. Before this study, the polymerization of CL had never been performed using a magnesium catalyst under air at room temperature. Various forms of alcohols with different purposes were also used as initiators with Mg(BHT)2. The results show that the magnesium complex acts as a perfect catalyst because of its high catalytic activity and control ability without any cytotoxicity in the polymerization of CL, making it suitable for biomedical applications. In addition, nanoparticle formation, cytotoxicity, and phototoxicity of tri‐2‐hydroxyethyl ester [Ce6‐(CH2CH2OPCL)3] were also studied in this article and Ce6‐(CH2CH2OPCL)3 formed nanoparticle can act as a nanophotosensitizer for photodynamic therapy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Hollow nanoparticles prepared from pH‐responsive template polymer micelles
Authors: Inoue Masamichi , Noda Kyohei , Yusa Shin‐ichi
Published: April 2012

Water‐soluble crosslinked hollow nanoparticles were prepared using pH‐responsive anionic polymer micelles as templates. The template micelles were formed from pH‐responsive diblock copolymers (PAMPS‐PAaH) composed of the poly(sodium 2‐(acrylamido)‐2‐methylpropanesulfonate) and poly(6‐(acrylamido)hexanoic acid) blocks in an aqueous acidic solution. The PAMPS and PAaH blocks form a hydrophilic anionic shell and hydrophobic core of the core‐shell polymer micelle, respectively. A cationic diblock copolymer (PEG‐P(APTAC/CEA)) with the poly(ethylene glycol) block and random copolymer block composed of poly((3‐acrylamidopropyl)trimethylammonium chloride) containing a small amount of the 2‐(cinnamoyl)ethylacrylate photo‐crosslinkable unit can be adsorbed to the anionic shell of the template micelle due to electrostatic interaction, which form a core‐shell‐corona three‐layered micelle. The shell of the core‐shell‐corona micelle is formed from a polyion complex with anionic PAMPS and cationic P(APTAC/CEA) chains. The P(APTAC/CEA) chains in the shell of the core‐shell‐corona micelle can be photo‐crosslinked with UV irradiation. The template micelle can be dissociated using NaOH, because the PAaH blocks are ionized. Furthermore, electrostatic interactions between PAMPS and PAPTAC in the shell are screened by adding excess NaCl in water. The template micelles can be completely removed by dialysis against water containing NaOH and NaCl to prepare the crosslinked hollow nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy observations confirmed the hollow structure. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Twin liquid crystals and segmented thermotropic polyesters containing azobenzene—effect of spacer length on LC properties
Authors: Nardele Chinmay G. , Asha S. K.
Published: April 2012

We report systematic studies on a homologous series of twin liquid crystalline (LC) molecules based on phenyl and naphthyl azobenzene (PnP and NpnNp) as well as segmented copolyesters based on them. The twin series had the structure azobenzene–oligooxyethylene–azobenzene, where the ethyleneoxy length was varied from 2 to 6 units. The LC properties of the twin series depended on the chemical structure of the azochromophore and also the length of the central oligooxyethylene segment. The PnP series exhibited smectic LC properties for n > three oligooxyethylene units. Conversely, NpnNp series exhibited spherulitic phases only for the shortest member –Np2Np. One non‐LC short spacer twin (P2P) and one LC long spacer twin (P6P) were incorporated as part of a main chain polyester composed of fully aliphatic segments of sebacate and di or tetraethylene glycol (DEG/TEG) units by melt polycondensation. Non‐LC P2P formed LC polymers even at low (5 mol %) incorporation in DEG‐based copolymers, whereas the LC‐P6P could do so only at 30 mol % incorporation. The LC properties of the twin molecules as well as copolymers were studied using differential scanning calorimetry, polarized light microscopy (PLM) along with variable temperature wide angle X‐ray diffraction. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Gamma irradiation of electrospun poly(ε‐caprolactone) fibers affects material properties but not cell response
Authors: Bosworth L. A. , Gibb A. , Downes S.
Published: April 2012

Fabrication of electrospun fibrous scaffolds as future medical devices is being widely researched, with particular emphasis given to their material properties and effect on cell response and differentiation. However, the vast majority of these scaffolds are sterilized via nonmedically approved methods, including submersion in ethanol and exposure to UV light. Although these techniques are adequate for laboratory‐based research, they are not sufficient for human implantation. In this case, regulatory approved, medical grade sterilization is required. In this study, we report the effects of gamma irradiation, a regulatory approved technique, on electrospun poly(ε‐caprolactone) fibers. Fabricated fibers were separately subjected to different dosages of irradiation ranging from 0 to 45 kGy and then assessed for their physicochemical properties. Gamma irradiation affected fiber properties irrespective of dosage. A dose‐dependent decrease in polymer molecular weight was observed and an increase in melting point and crystallinity reported. Similarly, irradiation had a significant effect on mechanical properties with greatest decrease in tensile strength (68%) for fibers exposed to 40 kGy. The method of sterilization had no effect on cell response. Seeded tenocytes attached to all fibers and elongated parallel to the underlying fiber direction. The results demonstrate the importance of incorporating medical grade sterilization procedures early in the research projects time line to assist translation from bench to clinic. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2012
Thin macroporous silicon heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Ernst Marco , Brendel Rolf , Ferré Rafel , Harder Nils‐Peter
Published: April 2012

We demonstrate the processing of a heterojunction solar cell from a purely macroporous silicon (MacPSi) absorber that is generated and separated from a monocrystalline n‐type Cz silicon wafer by means of electrochemical etching. The etching procedure results in straight pores with a diameter of (4.7 ± 0.2) µm and a distance of 8.3 µm. An intrinsic amorphous Si (a‐Si)/p+‐type a‐Si/indium tin oxide (ITO) layer stack is on the front side and an intrinsic a‐Si/n+‐type a‐Si/ITO layer stack is on the rear side. The pores are open when depositing the layers onto the 3.92 cm2‐sized cell. The conductive layers do not cause shunting through the pores. A silicon oxide layer passivates the pore walls. The energy‐conversion efficiency of the (33 ± 2) µm thick cell is 7.2%. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A critical assessment of surface cloud observations and their use for verifying cloud forecasts
Authors: Mittermaier Marion
Published: April 2012

Total cloud amount and cloud‐base height are two quantities diagnosed from the vertical distribution of cloud in a model grid column. Together they form the basis of many cloud‐based forecast products. Forecasts from four Met Office Unified Model (MetUM) horizontal resolution configurations are compared against manual and automated conventional synoptic (SYNOP) observations. The analysis shows that observation‐type‐dependent characteristics feed through to model forecast biases and skill scores, where manual and automated cloud observations produce biases of opposite kind. The mixing of observation types is therefore not recommended, as the ability to interpret results is compromised. This is especially relevant when tuning model physics. The effect of horizontal grid resolution is mixed on both bias and skill. Copyright © 2012 British Crown copyright, the Met Office Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Super‐Clausius–Clapeyron scaling of rainfall in a model squall line
Authors: Singleton Andrew , Toumi Ralf
Published: April 2012

The sensitivity of squall rainfall to changes in atmospheric temperature is investigated. For instantaneous rainrates and accumulations up to one hour, extreme rainfall scales with Clausius‐Clapeyron (CC) for temperatures below 24°C and at up to twice CC above 24°C. For longer accumulation periods and higher temperatures the scaling breaks down due to increased propagation of the squall line. For all periods, the storm average rainfall is found to scale at approximately 1.5 times CC over the entire range of temperatures. These results have implications for design parameters for infrastructure that is vulnerable to flooding and for climate change projections. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Assessing the performance of computational methods for the prediction of the ground state structure of a cyclic decapeptide
Authors: Doemer Manuel , Guglielmi Matteo , Athri Prashanth , Nagornova Natalia S. , Rizzo Thomas R. , Boyarkin Oleg V. , Tavernelli Ivano , Rothlisberger Ursula
Published: April 2012

We benchmark the performance of various computational approaches, ranging from the classical nonpolarizable force fields AMBER FF96 and FF99SB, the polarizable force fields AMBER FF02polEP and AMOEBAbio09 to the semiempirical DFT method SCC‐DFTB. The test set consists of nine conformations of gas‐phase protonated gramicidin S, a cyclic decapeptide. We discuss their structural features in relation to the intrinsic lowest energy structure, which has been solved recently by a combination of cold ion spectroscopy and high level theoretical methods (Nagornova et al., Angew Chem Int Ed 2011, 50, 5383). As a reference, we use the energetics at the M05‐2X level of theory. The latter has been validated as a suitable reference method in predicting the correct ground state structure of gas‐phase protonated bare and microsolvated tryptophan as well as gas‐phase protonated gramicidin S by comparison to experiment. We discuss the performance of the different more approximate methods in relation to their potential use as efficient and reliable tools to explore conformational space for the generation of candidate structures before refinement at the DFT level. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Selection of prophylactic antibiotics according to the microorganisms isolated from surgical site infections (SSIs) in a previous series of surgeries reduces SSI incidence after pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Kondo Kazuhiro , Chijiiwa Kazuo , Ohuchida Jiro , Kai Masahiro , Fujii Yoshiro , Otani Kazuhiro , Hiyoshi Masahide , Nagano Motoaki , Imamura Naoya
Published: April 2012

Background

The incidence of surgical site infections (SSIs) is high after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD).

Methods

We divided 116 consecutive patients who underwent PD into an early group (n = 58) and a later group (n = 58) according to time of surgery. In both groups, endoscopic retrograde biliary drainage was mainly employed for the patients with obstructive jaundice. In the later group, prophylactic antibiotics were selected according to the susceptibility of microorganisms isolated from SSIs in the early group. The incidence of SSIs was compared between the groups.

Results

The background characteristics (including methods of preoperative biliary drainage and microorganisms in the bile obtained before or during operation) of the patients were not significantly different between the groups, except for the serum albumin level, which was lower in the later group than in the early group (P = 0.0026). The incidence of SSIs was significantly lower in the later group (24.1 %) than in the early group (46.6 %) (P = 0.0116). Belonging to the later group was one independent negative risk factor for SSI.

Conclusions

Selection of prophylactic antibiotics on the basis of microorganisms isolated from SSIs in the early group contributed to the reduced incidence of SSIs in the later group after PD.
Disturbed apoptosis and cell proliferation in developing neuroepithelium of lumbo‐sacral neural tubes in retinoic acid‐induced spina bifida aperta in rat
Authors: Wei Xiaowei , Li Hui , Miao Jianing , Zhou Fenghua , Liu Bo , Wu Di , Li Shujing , Wang Lili , Fan Yang , Wang Weilin , Yuan Zhengwei
Published: April 2012

Spina bifida is a complex congenital malformation resulting from failure of fusion in the spinal neural tube during embryogenesis. However, the cellular mechanism underlying spina bifida is not fully understood. Here, we investigated cell apoptosis in whole embryos and proliferation of neural progenitor cells in the spinal neural tube during neurulation in all‐trans retinoic acid (atRA)‐induced spina bifida in fetal rats. Cell apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL assay on whole‐mount and serially sectioned samples of rat embryos with spina bifida. Cell proliferation of lumbo‐sacral neural progenitor cells was assessed by staining for the mitotic marker Ki67 and pH3. We found an excess of apoptosis in the neuroepithelium of embryos with spina bifida, which became more marked as embryos progress from E11 to E13. Conversely, there was a reduction in cell proliferation in spina bifida embryos, with a progressively greater difference from controls with stage from E11 to 13. Thus, atRA‐induced spina bifida in rat shows perturbed apoptosis and proliferation of neural progenitors in the lumbo‐sacral spinal cord during embryonic development, which might contribute to the pathogenesis of spina bifida.
Altindische Syntax
Authors: Delbrück Berthold
Published: April 2012

The famous scholar of Indo-European syntax Berthold Delbrück (1842–1922) published this study of Sanskrit syntax in 1888. It focuses on the stage of the language that was termed 'Vedic' by the Indian grammarian Panini (c. 400 BCE). Delbrück's intention was to describe that material as clearly and thoroughly as possible in order to facilitate future comparative or in-depth studies. The book begins with chapters devoted to basic sentence structure and word order, before moving on to number, gender, case, declension of nouns, and then adjectives, adverbs, pronouns and verbs with their tenses, moods and conjugations. Prepositions and particles follow, and the book ends with discussion of subordinate clauses and other complex structures. The grammatical points are illustrated by numerous text examples, with references and translations into German, and there are thorough indexes of words and of textual passages cited.
Voyage au Tapajoz
Authors: Coudreau Henri Anatole
Published: April 2012

In the first of three exploratory missions into the Amazon basin, the French explorer, geologist, and scholar Henri Coudreau spent nearly seven months on the Tapajoz river, from 28 July 1895 to 7 January 1896. Coudreau was working as a teacher and scientist in French Guyana when he was commissioned by the governor of Brazil's Pará state to explore the Amazon's tributaries. His 1897 Voyage au Tapajoz carefully records the villages, towns, peoples, and environs encountered throughout his journey. Illustrations, meteorological tables, and vocabularies of indigenous languages demonstrate Coudreau's wide-ranging interests and observations and his rigorous approach to data collection. He also includes poetic detail, describing, for instance, 'un ciel du matin d'une douceur exquise'. This allows the reader to enter into Coudreau's sensory and affective experiences, and makes the book an enjoyable travelogue as well as a thorough scientific report.
Notes upon Russia
Authors: Herberstein Sigismund von
Published: April 2012

The publications of the Hakluyt Society (founded in 1846) made available edited (and sometimes translated) early accounts of exploration. The first series, which ran from 1847 to 1899, consists of 100 books containing published or previously unpublished works by authors from Christopher Columbus to Sir Francis Drake, and covering voyages to the New World, to China and Japan, to Russia and to Africa and India. This volume, first published in 1852, contains an English translation of the second part of the account by Sigismund von Herberstein (1486–1566) of his visits to Russia in 1517 and 1526 as Ambassador of the Holy Roman Emperor. He published his Rerum Moscoviticarum Commentarii in Latin in 1549, and it is the earliest detailed Western description of the land and people of Russia. Here Herberstein describes the geography and history of the country, with more fascinating details about the people and their customs.
The Works of John Ruskin
Authors: Ruskin John
Published: April 2012

The influence of John Ruskin (1819–1900), both on his own time and on artistic and social developments in the twentieth century, cannot be over-stated. He changed Victorian perceptions of art, and was the main influence behind 'Gothic revival' architecture. As a social critic, he argued for the improvement of the condition of the poor, and against the increasing mechanisation of work in factories, which he believed was dull and soul-destroying. The thirty-nine volumes of the Library Edition of his works, published between 1903 and 1912, are themselves a remarkable achievement, in which his books and essays - almost all highly illustrated - are given a biographical and critical context in extended introductory essays and in the 'Minor Ruskiniana' - extracts from letters, articles and reminiscences both by and about Ruskin. This twenty-fourth volume contains writings on Italian art, including 'St Mark's Rest' and 'St Mark's, Venice'.
Paper and Paper Making, Ancient and Modern
Authors: Herring Richard , Croly George
Published: April 2012

This short history of paper-making is based on lectures delivered at the London Institute, and was first published in book form in 1855. The young Richard Herring (b. 1829) covers a great deal of ground in just three chapters. His book begins with the origins of writing itself, the first materials upon which people wrote, and the mastery of Egyptian papyrus. He then describes more recent developments such as the paper-making techniques developed in the eighteenth century by James Whatman, watermarks, and an especially captivating section on how the close analysis of paper was used to expose an Irish forgery of Shakespearean manuscripts. The introduction by the Reverend George Croly stresses the importance of paper-making and printing to Christian history. Herring writes enthusiastically, punctuating his account with anecdotes, and patriotically emphasises the unrivalled brilliance of printing in England.
A History of the Arabs in the Sudan
Authors: MacMichael H. A.
Published: April 2012

H. A. MacMichael was a member of the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan government between 1905 and 1933. This two-volume work, first published in 1922, is the culmination of almost twenty years' ethnological research conducted while MacMichael was stationed in various parts of Sudan. It provides detailed histories of the origins, movements and degrees of relation between indigenous groups in Sudan, based on oral histories gained from interviews with local people, and on Sudanese genealogical records known as 'nisbas'. These records provide a valuable insight into the construction and fluidity of ethnic identity at a local and regional level, and have been widely used as a basis for subsequent investigations concerning identity in Sudan. Volume 1 discusses pre-Islamic and contemporary indigenous groups. This book contains opinions on ethnicity which were acceptable at the time it was first published.
Ethnology of A-Kamba and Other East African Tribes
Authors: Hobley C. W.
Published: April 2012

C. W. Hobley (1867–1947) was a colonial administrator who was stationed in Kenya between 1894 and 1921. Following the implementation of Indirect Rule in Kenya, indigenous law and custom were followed in political and judicial proceedings, with the colonial administration requiring a working knowledge of traditional customs. This book contains information collected by C. W. Hobley during his tenure as administrator of Nyanza Province and was first published in 1910 as part of the Cambridge Archaeological and Ethnological Series. This detailed ethnography was the first systematic survey of the Kamba people, and provides a comprehensive description of their traditional society, cultural practices and political and economic life. A description of the social organization of the Masai people is also provided. This volume contains views on ethnicity which were acceptable at the time it was first published.
The Veddas
Authors: Seligmann Charles Gabriel , Seligmann Brenda Zara
Published: April 2012

Dr C. G. Seligmann (1873–1940) was a renowned anthropologist who was President of the Royal Anthropological Institute between 1923 and 1925. After joining the Cambridge Anthropological Expedition to the Torres Strait in Melanesia in 1898, he changed his career from medicine to anthropology and began his career as a distinguished field anthropologist. This book contains his pioneering ethnology of the indigenous Vedda people of Sri Lanka. The social, political, religious and economic life of the Veddas is systematically examined in this detailed study, first published as part of the Cambridge Archaeological and Ethnological Series in 1911. This ethnology remains the standard reference work for the social structure and material culture of the Vedda people, as they have ceased to exist as a separate community in Sri Lanka. This volume contains views on ethnicity which were acceptable at the time it was published.
Kleine Schriften
Authors: Usener Hermann
Published: April 2012

The German scholar Hermann Usener (1834–1905) made an important contribution to nineteenth-century scholarship in the fields of philology and comparative religion. In order to recreate a picture of the religions of the Greco-Roman world he drew on elements from the fields of ethnology, phenomenology and hermeneutics. This four-volume collection of essays and reviews was published posthumously in 1912–1914. Volume 1 (1912) focuses on Greek philosophy and rhetoric, addressing such diverse topics as Theophrastus' books on the law, Epicurean sayings and ancient verse. It also includes contributions on Greek grammar and textual criticism, as well as reviews by Usener of publications by his contemporaries which provide fascinating insights into the lively intellectual debates of his time.