bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory investigation of triple marking the parasitoid Gonatocerus ashmeadi with a fluorescent dye and two animal proteins
Authors: Irvin N. A. , Hagler J. R. , Hoddle M. S.
Published: February 2012

Gonatocerus ashmeadi Girault (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae), a parasitoid of Homalodisca vitripennis (Germar) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) (glassy‐winged sharpshooter), was used as a model insect to investigate triple marking a minute hymenopteran for potential use for monitoring dispersal patterns of natural enemies in the field. The triple mark contained egg albumin in chicken eggs, casein in bovine milk, and SARDI yellow fluorescent dye. Three application treatments of the triple mark were investigated: (1) a wet topical treatment, (2) a dry residue treatment, and (3) untreated control. The presence of albumin and casein protein marks were detected by an anti‐albumin and anti‐casein enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) using both ‘soaked’ and ‘crushed’ specimens. Of the topically treated parasitoids, yellow dye, casein, and albumin were detected on 88, 69, and 21% of the crushed samples, respectively. The yellow dye and casein (tested with crush ELISA) were the most efficient marking methods, detecting up to 29% more marked G. ashmeadi. Yellow dye resulted in zero false positives in the untreated control. The percentage of false positives for casein (tested with crush ELISA) was 1.3; however, this was reduced to 0% when a double‐marking system using any two of the three marks (yellow dye, casein, and albumin) were used to mark parasitoids. This double‐mark system resulted in 65% of parasitoids being successfully marked in the topical treatment over the duration of the study. For casein, crush ELISA was 26% more sensitive and 24% more accurate than soak ELISA for detecting this mark. Yellow dye, albumin, and casein (tested with crush ELISA) were retained on marked parasitoids for the entire duration of the 11‐day study. Parasitoids self‐marked with yellow dye, albumin (tested with soak ELISA), casein (tested with crush ELISA), and the double‐mark (tested with crush ELISA) by walking over dried residue of the triple mark. This resulted in up to 17% more marked parasitoids in the residue treatment compared with the untreated control. A topical application of the triple mark had no effect on survival of G. ashmeadi compared with the control. The residue treatment resulted in significantly lower mortality than the untreated control, indicating that G. ashmeadi may have fed on the protein in the residue of the triple‐mark, which enhanced longevity.
Virtual implant planning in the edentulous maxilla: criteria for decision making of prosthesis design
Authors: Avrampou Marianna , Mericske‐Stern Regina , Blatz Markus B. , Katsoulis Joannis
Published: February 2012

Objectives

To evaluate prosthetic parameters in the edentulous anterior maxilla for decision making between fixed and removable implant prosthesis using virtual planning software.

Material and methods

CT‐ or DVT‐scans of 43 patients (mean age 62 ± 8 years) with an edentulous maxilla were analyzed with the NobelGuide™ software. Implants (≥3.5 mm diameter, ≥10 mm length) were virtually placed in the optimal three‐dimensional prosthetic position of all maxillary front teeth. Anatomical and prosthetic landmarks, including the cervical crown point (C‐Point), the acrylic flange border (F‐Point), and the implant‐platform buccal‐end (I‐Point) were defined in each middle section to determine four measuring parameters: (1) acrylic flange height (FLHeight), (2) mucosal coverage (MucCov), (3) crown‐Implant distance (CID) and (4) buccal prosthesis profile (ProsthProfile). Based on these parameters, all patients were assigned to one of three classes: (A) MucCov ≤ 0 mm and ProsthProfile≥450 allowing for fixed prosthesis, (B) MucCov = 0–5 mm and/or ProsthProfile = 300–450 probably allowing for fixed prosthesis, and (C) MucCov ≥ 5 mm and/or ProsthProfile ≤ 300 where removable prosthesis is favorable. Statistical analyses included descriptive methods and non‐parametric tests.

Results

Mean values were for FLHeight 10.0 mm, MucCov 5.6 mm, CID 7.4 mm, and ProsthProfile 39.10. Seventy percent of patients fulfilled class C criteria (removable), 21% class B (probably fixed), and 2% class A (fixed), while in 7% (three patients) bone volume was insufficient for implant planning.

Conclusions

The proposed classification and virtual planning procedure simplify the decision‐making process regarding type of prosthesis and increase predictability of esthetic treatment outcomes. It was demonstrated that in the majority of cases, the space between the prosthetic crown and implant platform had to be filled with prosthetic materials.
Histological results after maxillary sinus augmentation with Straumann® BoneCeramic, Bio‐Oss®, Puros®, and autologous bone. A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Schmitt Christian Martin , Doering Hendrik , Schmidt Thomas , Lutz Rainer , Neukam Friedrich Wilhelm , Schlegel Karl Andreas
Published: February 2012

Objective

This investigation focused on a comparison of clinical and histological characteristics after sinus floor augmentation with biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP, Straumann BoneCeramic®), anorganic bovine bone (ABB, Geistlich Bio‐Oss®), mineralized cancellous bone allograft (MCBA, Zimmer Puros®), or autologous bone (AB).

Materials and methods

Thirty consecutive patients with a posterior edentulous maxillary situation and a vertical bone height less than or equal to 4 mm were included in this study. A two‐stage procedure was carried out. After augmentation of the maxillary sinus with ABB, BCP, MCBA, or AB followed by a healing period of 5 months, biopsies were taken with simultaneous implant placement. The samples were analyzed using microradiography and histology.

Results

Ninety‐four implants were placed in the augmented positions and 53 bone biopsies were taken and evaluated. The bone volume fraction of newly formed bone was measured as 30.28 ± 2.16% for BCP, 24.9 ± 5.67% for ABB, 41.74 ± 2.1% for AB, and 35.41 ± 2.78% for MCBA with significant increases in bone volume of AB vs. BCP and ABB, and MCBA vs. ABB samples. Significantly different residual bone substitute material was measured as 15.8 ± 2.1% in the BCP group and 21.36 ± 4.83% in the ABB group.

Conclusion

As it provides the highest rate of de novo bone formation, AB can be considered to remain the gold standard in sinus floor augmentation. All tested control materials showed comparable results and are suitable for maxillary sinus augmentation.
Open reduction by vestibular approach in the treatment of segmental alveolar fracture
Authors: Li Zhi , Hu Tu‐Qiang , Li Zu‐Bing
Published: February 2012

Abstract –  Fracture of the alveolar process is a common injury; the majority of alveolar fractures may be managed by closed reduction. However, some cases with severe segmental alveolar fracture cannot be reduced by close reduction, usually resulting in occlusion disturbance. This article describes open reduction by vestibular approach in the treatment of severe segmental alveolar fractures, with the aim of evaluating the prognosis. Fifteen patients with severe segmental alveolar fractures that could not be reduced by closed method were included in our case series. Open reduction by vestibular approach was performed on these patients, and the fractures were stabilized with dental arch bars or dental wires. Postoperatively, all patients achieved uneventful healing; consolidation of the fracture was confirmed clinically after 4 weeks. The technique presented is an effective treatment approach proposed for cases of severe segmental alveolar fracture that cannot be managed by closed reduction.
Joining in the Dance: Catholic Social Teaching and Ecology
Authors: Deane-Drummond Celia
Published: February 2012

This paper charts the emergence of environmental themes in Roman Catholic Social Teaching (CST). I argue that not only has this strand not been adequately acknowledged, but also that the theological basis for these ideas are rooted in core Roman Catholic teachings on creation, Christology and anthropology. In other words, concern for environmental issues is not an optional extra for Christian practice, but expresses in a fundamental way deep incarnation and human image-bearing as responsible stewardship. I argue that a particular concern with issues of social justice shapes the way environmental problems are addressed, so terms such as human ecology, ecological conversion, solidarity, the common good and world peace all take up ecological threads that are then woven into the account. While Pope John Paul II arguably laid the foundation for the theological bases for these ideas, Pope Benedict XVI applies these ideas more explicitly to current concerns. Yet while the former gave witness to the power of contemplation of the natural world, the latter is more concerned with distortions in philosophical reasoning in the Western world, including dangers he perceived in naturalism and pantheism. Both pontiffs show a lack of specific understanding of ecological systems and tend to idealise both nature in terms of harmonious relationships and humans in terms of mastery.
Oral rehabilitation of severely worn dentition using an overlay for immediate re‐establishment of occlusal vertical dimension
Authors: Freitas Amilcar Chagas , Silva Antônio Materson , Lima Verde Marcus Aurélio Rabelo , Jorge de Aguiar Juliana Ribeiro Pala
Published: February 2012

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2010.00372.x

Oral rehabilitation of severely worn dentition using an overlay for immediate re‐establishment of occlusal vertical dimension

The aim of this study was to describe the treatment used in an elderly patient presenting with bruxism and dental erosion, with good gingival health and bone support, but with decreased occlusal vertical dimension (OVD). The oral rehabilitation of elderly patients presenting with bruxism in association with tooth erosion has been a great challenge for dentists. The loss of OVD, the presence of occlusal instability and the absence of an effective anterior guide due excessive dental wear, can damage stomatognathic system (SS) biology, the function and the aesthetics. In the first treatment stage, an overlay removable partial denture (ORPD) was fabricated for the immediate re‐establishment of function and aesthetics. After a 2‐month follow up, with the patient presenting no symptoms, a second rehabilitation stage was accomplished, with fixed and removable prostheses. Oral rehabilitation with an ORPD was able to re‐establish the SS biology, but a correct diagnosis and treatment plan are essential for success. The ORPD is a non‐invasive and reversible restoring modality for general dentists that allow the re‐establishment of the patient’s immediate aesthetics and function at low cost.
Last three days of life in the hospital: a comparison of symptoms, signs and treatments in the young old and the oldest old patients using the Resident Assessment Instrument for Palliative Care
Authors: Steindal Simen A. , Ranhoff Anette H. , Bredal Inger S. , Sørbye Liv W. , Lerdal Anners
Published: February 2012

Background.  Knowledge concerning the provision of end of life care to the oldest old hospitalised patients is deficient.

Aims and objectives.  To analyse whether there were differences in registered nurses’ documentation of the young old vs. the oldest old patients according to symptoms, clinical signs and treatment in the last 3 days of life.

Design.  Data were collected retrospectively in a cross‐sectional comparative study at a hospital between autumn 2007 and spring 2009.

Methods.  The study included 190 patients: 101 (65–84 years) and 89 (85+). Data were extracted from the patients’ electronic records using the Resident Assessment Instrument for Palliative Care (RAI‐PC).

Results.  Falls (OR = 4.01, 95% CI 1.47–10.90) and peripheral oedema (OR = 2.74, 95% CI 1.06–7.11) were significantly more frequent documented in the oldest old patients compared with the young old patients. Delirium was recorded in 15.3% of all patients.

Conclusion.  With the exception of more falls and peripheral oedema in the oldest old patients, this study showed no differences in symptoms and treatment between the young old and the oldest old patients. Delirium was poorly documented compared to other studies.

Implications for practice.  The oldest old patients have a higher risk of falls in the final phase of life, and fall prevention should be considered.
Thoracoscopic foreign body removal and right middle lung lobectomy to treat pyothorax in a dog
Authors: Peláez M. Jiménez , Jolliffe C.
Published: February 2012

A three‐year‐old, 30‐kg, spayed female German wirehaired pointer was presented for coughing, pyrexia and lethargy. Thoracic radiographs showed mild right‐sided pleural effusion, moderate pneumothorax and a pulmonary lesion in the right middle or caudal lung lobe. A diagnosis of pyothorax was established by fine needle aspiration of the pleural effusion. Thoracoscopic exploration was performed using one‐lung ventilation. A vegetal foreign body (grass awn) and an abscess were observed in the distal part of the right middle lung lobe. The foreign body was removed and a right middle lung lobectomy was performed, both thoracoscopically. No complications were noted. The dog was discharged 48 hours after surgery, and no recurrence of the clinical signs was observed during the follow‐up time period (three years and three months). Thoracoscopy is a minimally invasive alternative to thoracotomy to explore and successfully treat some non‐chronic pyothoraces in dogs, including lesions affecting the right middle lung lobe.
Climate change and the ecology and evolution of Arctic vertebrates
Authors: Gilg Olivier , Kovacs Kit M. , Aars Jon , Fort Jérôme , Gauthier Gilles , Grémillet David , Ims Rolf A. , Meltofte Hans , Moreau Jérôme , Post Eric , Schmidt Niels Martin , Yannic Glenn , Bollache Loïc
Published: February 2012

Climate change is taking place more rapidly and severely in the Arctic than anywhere on the globe, exposing Arctic vertebrates to a host of impacts. Changes in the cryosphere dominate the physical changes that already affect these animals, but increasing air temperatures, changes in precipitation, and ocean acidification will also affect Arctic ecosystems in the future. Adaptation via natural selection is problematic in such a rapidly changing environment. Adjustment via phenotypic plasticity is therefore likely to dominate Arctic vertebrate responses in the short term, and many such adjustments have already been documented. Changes in phenology and range will occur for most species but will only partly mitigate climate change impacts, which are particularly difficult to forecast due to the many interactions within and between trophic levels. Even though Arctic species richness is increasing via immigration from the South, many Arctic vertebrates are expected to become increasingly threatened during this century.
Cumulative incidence of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 by a community‐based serological cohort study in Selenghe Province, Mongolia
Authors: Burmaa Alexanderyn , Tsatsral Sosorbaramyn , Odagiri Takashi , Suzuki Akira , Oshitani Hitoshi , Nymadawa Pagbajabyn
Published: February 2012

Please cite this paper as: Burmaa et al. (2012) Cumulative incidence of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 by a community‐based serological cohort study in Selenghe Province, Mongolia. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 6(601), e97–e104.

Background  Large community outbreaks of pandemic A (H1N1) 2009 occurred between October and December 2009 in Mongolia. A serological study was conducted among the general population by testing paired sera collected before and after the first wave of pandemic in Selenghe province, Mongolia. None of the study participants had been vaccinated for pandemic A (H1N1) 2009 before the second samples were collected.

Objective  The objective of this study was to estimate cumulative incidence of pandemic A (H1N1) 2009 in different age‐groups of Selenghe province residents.

Methods  After informed consent was obtained from apparently healthy volunteers, the paired sera and background information were collected. Antibody titers were measured using hemagglutinin inhibition (HI) and microneutralization (MN) assays for A/California/07/2009pdm. A fourfold rise in antibody titers was regarded as the evidence of infection.

Results  The overall cumulative incidences in the study group for all ages were 28·8% (76/264) by HI, 35·2% (93/264) by MN, and 25·0% (66/264) by both HI and MN. Cumulative incidences of infection varied among age‐groups, with children aged 2–4 and 5–9 years having high cumulative incidence of infection. Overall cumulative incidences of infection in the whole population were estimated to be 23·0% (4946/21 460) by HI, 30·2% (6473/21 460) by MN, and 18·8% (4036/21 460) by both HI and MN.

Conclusions  This study indicates that about one‐fourth of the total population in Selenghe province was infected with pandemic A (H1N1) 2009 virus during the first wave of the pandemic.
Discrimination of influenza A subtype by antibodies recognizing host‐specific amino acids in the viral nucleoprotein
Authors: Miyoshi‐Akiyama Tohru , Yamashiro Tetsu , Mai Le Quynh , Narahara Kenji , Miyamoto Akitomo , Shinagawa Shingo , Mori Sunao , Kitajima Hirotake , Kirikae Teruo
Published: February 2012

Please cite this paper as: Miyoshi‐Akiyama et al. (2012) Discrimination of influenza A subtype by antibodies recognizing host‐specific amino acids in the viral nucleoprotein. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 6(6), 434–441.

Background  Nucleoprotein (NP) of influenza viruses is utilized to differentiate between the A, B, and C viral serotypes. The availability of influenza genome sequence data has allowed us to identify specific amino acids at particular positions in viral proteins, including NP, known as “signature residues,” which can be used to discriminate human influenza A viruses from H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza in human cases (HPAI) and pandemic H1N1(2009) (H1N1/2009) viruses.

Methods  Screening and epitope mapping of monoclonal antibodies (mAb) against NP of influenza A, which reacted differently with NP from human influenza A virus from HPAI and H1N1/2009 A virus. To identify the epitope(s) responsible for the discrimination of viral NP by mAbs, we prepared mutant NP proteins in the 293 cell expression system because some of the mAbs reacted with non‐linear epitopes.

Results and Conclusions  In the present study, we identified 3 mAbs. The results of epitope mapping showed that the epitopes were located at the signature residues. These results indicated that signature residues of NP could discriminate influenza A viruses from different origin.
Enhanced Antimicrobial Activity of Nisin‐Loaded Liposomal Nanoparticles against Foodborne Pathogens
Authors: Zou Yunyun , Lee Hyeon‐Yong , Seo Yong‐Chang , Ahn Juhee
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  This study was designed to evaluate the prolonged antimicrobial stability of nisin‐loaded liposome (LipoN) nanoparticles against Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus. The sizes of bare liposomes and LipoN were uniformly distributed between 114 and 125 nm. The nanoparticles were homogeneously dispersed in water with less than 0.2 of polydispersity index. The zeta potential value of LipoN was +17.1 mV due to the positive charged nisin, attaining 70% of loading efficiency. The minimum inhibitory concentration of LipoN against L. monocytogenes and S. aureus was 320 international unit/mL. The LipoN significantly enhanced the antimicrobial stability in brain heart infusion agar compared to free nisin. The numbers of L. monocytogenes and S. aureus exposed to LipoN were effectively reduced by more than 6 log colony‐forming unit/mL after 48 and 72 h of incubation, respectively. These results provide useful information for the development of antimicrobial delivery system to improve food safety.
Glycoalkaloids (α‐Chaconine and α‐Solanine) Contents of Selected Pakistani Potato Cultivars and Their Dietary Intake Assessment
Authors: Aziz Abdul , Randhawa Muhammad Atif , Butt Masood Sadiq , Asghar Ali , Yasin Muhammad , Shibamoto Takayuki
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Glycoalkaloids (α‐solanine and α‐chaconine) are naturally occurring toxic compounds in potato tuber (Solanum tuberosum L.) that cause acute intoxication in humans after their consumption. Present research was conducted to evaluate α‐chaconine, α‐solanine, and total glycoalkaloids (TGAs) contents in the peel and flesh portions by high‐performance liquid chromatography method in selected Pakistani potato cultivars. The α‐solanine content varies 45.98 ± 1.63 to 2742.60 ± 92.97 mg/100 g of dry weight (DW) in peel and from 4.01 ± 0.14 to 2466.56 ± 87.21 mg/100 g of DW in flesh. Similarly, α‐chaconine content varied from 4.42 ± 0.16 to 6818.40 ± 211.07 mg/100 g of DW in potato peel and from 3.94 ± 0.14 to 475.33 ± 16.81 mg/100 g DW in flesh portion. The TGA concentration varied from 177.20 ± 6.26 to 5449.90 ± 192.68 mg/100 g of DW in peel and from 3.08 ± 0.11 to 14.69 ± 0.52 mg/100 g of DW in flesh portion of all the potato cultivars tested. All the potato cultivars contained lower concentration of TGA than the limits recommended as safe, except 2 cultivars, that is FD8‐3 (2539.18 ± 89.77 mg/100 g of DW) and Cardinal (506.16 ± 17.90 mg/kg). The dietary intake assessment of potato cultivars revealed that Cardinal, FD 35‐36, FD 8‐3, and FD 3‐9 contained higher amount of TGA in whole potato, although FD 8‐3 only possessed higher content of TGA (154.93 ± 7.75) in its flesh portion rendering it unfit for human consumption.

Practical Application:  This paper was based on the research conducted on toxic compounds present in all possible potato cultivars in Pakistan. Actually, we quantify the toxic compounds (glycoalkaloids) of potato cultivars through HPLC and their dietary assessment. This paper revealed safety assessment and their application in food industries especially potato processing.
Comparison of Stream Invertebrate Response Models for Bioassessment Metrics1
Authors: Waite Ian R. , Kennen Jonathan G. , May Jason T. , Brown Larry R. , Cuffney Thomas F. , Jones Kimberly A. , Orlando James L.
Published: February 2012

Waite, Ian R., Jonathan G. Kennen, Jason T. May, Larry R. Brown, Thomas F. Cuffney, Kimberly A. Jones, and James L. Orlando, 2012. Comparison of Stream Invertebrate Response Models for Bioassessment Metrics. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 48(3): 570‐583. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2011.00632.x

Abstract:  We aggregated invertebrate data from various sources to assemble data for modeling in two ecoregions in Oregon and one in California. Our goal was to compare the performance of models developed using multiple linear regression (MLR) techniques with models developed using three relatively new techniques: classification and regression trees (CART), random forest (RF), and boosted regression trees (BRT). We used tolerance of taxa based on richness (RICHTOL) and ratio of observed to expected taxa (O/E) as response variables and land use/land cover as explanatory variables. Responses were generally linear; therefore, there was little improvement to the MLR models when compared to models using CART and RF. In general, the four modeling techniques (MLR, CART, RF, and BRT) consistently selected the same primary explanatory variables for each region. However, results from the BRT models showed significant improvement over the MLR models for each region; increases in R2 from 0.09 to 0.20. The O/E metric that was derived from models specifically calibrated for Oregon consistently had lower R2 values than RICHTOL for the two regions tested. Modeled O/E R2 values were between 0.06 and 0.10 lower for each of the four modeling methods applied in the Willamette Valley and were between 0.19 and 0.36 points lower for the Blue Mountains. As a result, BRT models may indeed represent a good alternative to MLR for modeling species distribution relative to environmental variables.
Dissolved Organic Carbon and Estrogen Transport in Surface Runoff From Agricultural Land Receiving Poultry Litter1
Authors: Dutta Sudarshan , Inamdar Shreeram , Tso Jerry , Aga Diana S. , Sims J. Tom
Published: February 2012

Dutta, Sudarshan, Shreeram Inamdar, Jerry Tso, Diana S. Aga, and J. Tom Sims, 2012. Dissolved Organic Carbon and Estrogen Transport in Surface Runoff from Agricultural Land Receiving Poultry Litter. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 48(3): 558‐569. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2011.00634.x

Abstract:  Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) provides a reactive substrate for the transport of organic contaminants with runoff. Very few studies have investigated the export of DOC from agricultural land, especially those receiving manure applications. We investigated exports of DOC in surface runoff from agricultural fields receiving various treatments of poultry litter (raw vs. pelletized). In addition, we also investigated how estrogens in runoff were associated with DOC. Different forms of estrogens studied were: estrone, 17β‐estradiol, estriol, and their conjugates. Experimental agricultural plots were 12 m × 5 m long and had reduced tillage and no‐till management practices. The aromatic content of DOC was characterized using specific ultraviolet absorbance (SUVA). Flow‐weighted concentrations of DOC and SUVA in surface runoff from plots with poultry litter were significantly (p ≤ 0.10) greater than the control (no litter) plots. Compared to pelletized poultry litter, reduced‐tillage plots with raw litter yielded higher DOC concentrations and SUVA values. No significant differences (p ≥ 0.10) in DOC and SUVA were observed between litter treatments for plots with no‐till. Total estrogen concentrations (including all forms) were positively and significantly (p ≤ 0.10) correlated with DOC. These results can help select and guide agricultural management practices that can reduce the exports of DOC and associated contaminant from agricultural land receiving manure applications.
Distributed Hydrologic Modeling in the Suburban Landscape: Assessing Parameter Transferability from Gauged Reference Catchments1
Authors: Mittman Tamara , Band Lawrence E. , Hwang Taehee , Smith Monica Lipscomb
Published: February 2012

Mittman, Tamara, Lawrence E. Band, Taehee Hwang, and Monica Lipscomb Smith, 2012. Distributed Hydrologic Modeling in the Suburban Landscape: Assessing Parameter Transferability from Gauged Reference Catchments. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 48(3): 546‐557. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2011.00636.x

Abstract:  Distributed, process‐based models of catchment hydrologic response are potentially useful tools for the assessment of Low Impact Development (LID) techniques in urbanized catchments. Their application is often limited, however, by the lack of continuous streamflow records to calibrate poorly constrained parameters. This article examines the transferability of soil and groundwater parameters from a forested reference catchment to a nearby suburban catchment. We use the Regional Hydro‐Ecologic Simulation System (RHESSys) to develop hydrologic models of one gauged forested and one ungauged suburban catchment within the Baltimore Ecosystem Study (BES) study area. We use a parameter uncertainty framework to calibrate soil and groundwater parameters for the forested catchment, and discrete measurements of streamflow from the suburban catchment to assess parameter transferability. Results indicate that the transfer of soil and groundwater parameters from forested reference to nearby suburban catchments is viable, with performance measures for the suburban catchment often exceeding those for the forested catchment. We propose that the simplification of hydrologic processes in urbanized catchments may account for the increase in model performance in the suburban catchment.
Lack of adverse effect of anti‐tumor necrosis factor‐α biologics in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: 5 years follow‐up
Authors: Dewedar Ahmed M. , Shalaby Medhat A. , Al‐Homaid Sulaiman , Mahfouz Ahmed M. , Shams Osama A. , Fathy Ahmed
Published: February 2012

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic inflammatory disorder affecting synovial joints and many other organs. Most patients seen in clinical settings have a progressive chronic disease, with radiographic damage, frequent work disability, incremental functional declines and increased mortality rates. The introduction of the biological drugs in treatment of RA has played an important role in prevention of destructive effects of the disease but may have serious adverse effects due to their powerful inhibition of the immune system.

Objectives

To study the adverse effects (ADEs) of three different tumor necrosis factor α inhibitor (TNFi) drugs (infliximab, adalimumab and etanercept) in RA patients for 5 years in the south‐west area of Saudi Arabia.

Methods

Two groups of RA patients were included in this study: The first group included 112 patients, representing the biologics group. These patients received biological therapy plus disease modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (DMARDs): 56 patients received infliximab (IFX), 36 patients received adalimumab (ADL) and 20 patients received etanercept (ETN). The second group also included 112 patients, representing the control group: RA patients treated only with the traditional DMARDs. ADEs were classified into mild and severe.

Results

The mild ADEs which had been recorded during 5 years of follow‐up in patients receiving TNFi, were onycholysis (1.8%), positive tuberculin test (1.8%) and small vessel vasculitis (1.8%). Statistically, there were insignificant differences in the mild ADEs except for upper respiratory tract infection that was significantly higher in the control group. Severe ADEs included pneumonia (1.8%) and solid tumor (1.8%) and there were no significant differences between the biologics and control groups. Also there were no significant statistical differences for the ADEs, mild or severe, between the three biologics, infliximab, adalimumab and etanercept. Occurrence of ADEs did not correlate to methotrexate dose, steroid dose or rheumatoid factor positivity.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that the use of TNFi therapy appeared to be as safe as traditional DMARDs in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis patients and long‐term follow‐up with careful examination is essential to pick up any abnormal ADEs.
Urine sVCAM‐1 and sICAM‐1 levels are elevated in lupus nephritis
Authors: Howe Hwee Siew , Kong Kok Ooi , Thong Bernard YH , Law Weng Giap , Chia Faith L. A. , Lian Tsui Yee , Lau Tang Ching , Chng Hiok Hee , Leung Bernard P. L.
Published: February 2012

Aim

We sought to evaluate the relationship of urine levels of soluble cellular adhesion molecules sVCAM‐1 (vascular) and sICAM‐1 (intercellular) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with or without lupus nephritis, and to explore their correlation with renal disease activity.

Methods

Paired serum and urine samples of 121 Asian SLE patients, and urine samples of 19 normal healthy controls were collected. Demographic data, disease activity and damage scores, and selected laboratory parameters, including levels of anti‐double stranded DNA antibody, complements C3, C4, and creatinine were captured. Renal disease activity was scored with renal SLE Activity Measure revised (rSLAM‐R). Serum and urine sVCAM‐1 and sICAM‐1 levels were assayed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Urinary sVCAM‐1 and sICAM‐1 were elevated in SLE patients compared to controls. Significantly higher levels of urine sVCAM‐1 found in patients with active lupus nephritis correlated with rSLAM‐R. In addtion, significantly more patients with active lupus nephritis had detectable levels of urine sICAM‐1, but no correlation with renal activity was observed.

Conclusion

Urinary sVCAM‐1 may serve as a potential biomarker for early diagnosis of lupus nephritis as levels correlated with even mild abnormalities of urine sediment. In addition, both urine sVCAM‐1 and sICAM‐1 levels may be useful in identifying patients at risk of lupus nephritis.
Brainstem Stroke and Increased Anal Tone
Authors: TATENO Fuyuki , SAKAKIBARA Ryuji , KISHI Masahiko , TSUYUSAKI Yohei , FURUKAWA Ryuichi , YOSHIMATSU Yasushi , SUZUKI Yasuo
Published: February 2012

After suffering a brainstem stroke, a 62‐year‐old man developed locked‐in syndrome including loss of horizontal eye movement and increased anal tone. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the patient revealed a massive stroke in the pons and right cerebellum, which seemed to involve the pontine micturition/defecation center (Barrington's nucleus) and the rostral pontine reticular formation (RPRF). As his increased anal tone was intractable to medical treatment, he required intermittent catheterization with an anal bougie tube. In light of the reported cases, our patient developed increased anal tone presumably due to pontine defecation center and RPRF lesion.
Present status of insulin therapy for type 2 diabetes treated by general practitioners and diabetes specialists in Japan: Third report of a cross‐sectional survey of 15,652 patients
Authors: Arai Keiko , Takai Masahiko , Hirao Koichi , Matsuba Ikuro , Matoba Kiyokazu , Takeda Hiroshi , Kanamori Akira , Yamauchi Mikio , Mori Hisao , Terauchi Yasuo
Published: February 2012

Aims/Introduction:  Insulin therapy is often required to achieve good glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, some providers, particularly general practitioners (GPs), are reluctant to prescribe insulin to their patients. The aim of the present study was to clarify any differences in, as well as any problems associated with, insulin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes being treated by either a GP or a diabetes specialist in Japan.

Materials and Methods:  Of 15,652 patients across 721 clinics and hospitals, 15,350 were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (14,312 by GPs and 1038 by specialists). Data regarding glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, age, height, bodyweight and treatment modality were collected for each patient.

Results:  Of the patients with type 2 diabetes, 9.1 and 22.9% had been prescribed insulin monotherapy, and 38.8 and 37.0% were also receiving insulin with an oral antidiabetic (OAD) by GPs or specialists, respectively. Diabetes specialists prescribed analog insulin more frequently than did GPs. GPs chose premixed insulin more frequently than did specialists, and this factor correlated with higher HbA1c levels. A younger age and daily insulin dose in groups being treated by both providers were correlated with high HbA1c levels on insulin monotherapy. Neither type of insulin nor OAD was correlated with HbA1c on insulin plus OAD therapy.

Conclusions:  To achieve better glycemic control with insulin therapy, sufficient insulin dose and intensive treatment regimen, in addition to lifestyle interventions, might be necessary. (J Diabetes Invest, doi: 10.1111/j.2040‐1124.2012.00198.x, 2012)
Reduced Order Thermal Modeling of Data Centers via Distributed Sensor Data
Authors: Samadiani Emad , Joshi Yogendra , Hamann Hendrik , Iyengar Madhusudan K. , Kamalsy Steven , Lacey James
Published: February 2012

In this paper, an effective and computationally efficient proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) based reduced order modeling approach is presented, which utilizes selected sets of observed thermal sensor data inside the data centers to help predict the data center temperature field as a function of the air flow rates of computer room air conditioning (CRAC) units. The approach is demonstrated through application to an operational data center of 102.2 m2 (1100 square feet) with a hot and cold aisle arrangement of racks cooled by one CRAC unit. While the thermal data throughout the facility can be collected in about 30 min using a 3D temperature mapping tool, the POD method is able to generate temperature field throughout the data center in less than 2 s on a high end desktop personal computer (PC). Comparing the obtained POD temperature fields with the experimentally measured data for two different values of CRAC flow rates shows that the method can predict the temperature field with the average error of 0.68 °C or 3.2%. The maximum local error is around 8 °C, but the total number of points where the local error is larger than 1 °C, is only ∼6% of the total domain points.
Prediction of the Thermal Conductivity of ZnO Nanostructures
Authors: Chantrenne P. , Ould-Lahoucine C.
Published: February 2012

The kinetic theory of gas is used to predict the specific heat and thermal conductivity of ZnO nanostructures. In this model, phonons are considered as a gas whose basic properties are given by phonon dispersion curves. The model also requires knowledge of the boundary relaxation time parameter (F), the defect relaxation time parameter D, and the relaxation time parameters which take into account lattice anisotropy. These parameters can be determined independently from experimental measurements. Excellent agreements were found when comparing both the estimated specific heat and thermal conductivity to bulk sample measurement data. Comparison with previous results obtained with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations leads to the conclusion that for ultra narrow nanobelts, thermal conductivity depends on their length. Behavior of the thermal conductivity of nanofilms is also studied. The results are consistent with previous works on 1D and 2 D systems. Finally, the thermal conductivity of nanobelts is presented as are the influences of boundary and defect parameters.
Heat Transfer Across Metal-Dielectric Interfaces During Ultrafast-Laser Heating
Authors: Guo Liang , Hodson Stephen L. , Fisher Timothy S. , Xu Xianfan
Published: February 2012

Heat transfer across metal-dielectric interfaces involves transport of electrons and phonons accomplished either by coupling between phonons in metal and dielectric or by coupling between electrons in metal and phonons in dielectric. In this work, we investigate heat transfer across metal-dielectric interfaces during ultrafast-laser heating of thin metal films coated on dielectric substrates. By employing ultrafast-laser heating that creates strong thermal nonequilibrium between electrons and phonons in metal, it is possible to isolate the effect of the direct electron–phonon coupling across the interface and thus facilitate its study. Transient thermo-reflectance measurements using femtosecond laser pulses are performed on Au–Si samples while the simulation results based on a two-temperature model are compared with the measured data. A contact resistance between electrons in Au and phonons in Si represents the coupling strength of the direct electron–phonon interactions at the interface. Our results reveal that this contact resistance can be sufficiently small to indicate strong direct coupling between electrons in metal and phonons in dielectric.
Evolution of Acoustically Vaporized Microdroplets in Gas Embolotherapy
Authors: Qamar Adnan , Wong Zheng Z. , Fowlkes J. Brian , Bull Joseph L.
Published: February 2012

Acoustic vaporization dynamics of a superheated dodecafluoropentane (DDFP) microdroplet inside a microtube and the resulting bubble evolution is investigated in the present work. This work is motivated by a developmental gas embolotherapy technique that is intended to treat cancers by infarcting tumors using gas bubbles. A combined theoretical and computational approach is utilized and compared with the experiments to understand the evolution process and to estimate the resulting stress distribution associated with vaporization event. The transient bubble growth is first studied by ultra-high speed imaging and then theoretical and computational modeling is used to predict the entire bubble evolution process. The evolution process consists of three regimes: an initial linear rapid spherical growth followed by a linear compressed oval shaped growth and finally a slow asymptotic nonlinear spherical bubble growth. Although the droplets are small compared to the tube diameter, the bubble evolution is influenced by the tube wall. The final bubble radius is found to scale linearly with the initial droplet radius and is approximately five times the initial droplet radius. A short pressure pulse with amplitude almost twice as that of ambient conditions is observed. The width of this pressure pulse increases with increasing droplet size whereas the amplitude is weakly dependent. Although the rise in shear stress along the tube wall is found to be under peak physiological limits, the shear stress amplitude is found to be more prominently influenced by the initial droplet size. The role of viscous dissipation along the tube wall and ambient bulk fluid pressure is found to be significant in bubble evolution dynamics.
Effect of Frozen Storage on Dynamic Tensile Properties of Human Placenta
Authors: Klinich Kathleen D. , Miller Carl S. , Hu Jingwen , Nazmi Giseli M. , Pearlman Mark D. , Schneider Lawrence W. , Rupp Jonathan D.
Published: February 2012

Dynamic mechanical properties of placenta tissue are needed to develop computational models of pregnant occupants for use in designing restraint systems that protect the fetus and mother. Tests were performed on 21 samples obtained from five human placentas at a rate of 1200 %/s using a set of custom designed thermoelectrically cooled clamps. Approximately half of the samples from all five subjects were tested within 48 h of delivery. The remaining samples were frozen for 5–7 days and then thawed before testing. True failure stresses and strains were not significantly different between fresh and frozen samples (p-value = 0.858 and 0.551, respectively), suggesting that soft tissue may be stored frozen up to a week without adversely affecting dynamic material response.
Transient flow of rarefied gas through an orifice
Authors: Sharipov Felix
Published: February 2012

A transient rarefied gas flow through a thin orifice is studied on the basis of the direct simulation Monte Carlo method. The mass flow rate and flow field are calculated as a function of the time in the transitional and hydrodynamic regimes with respect to the gas rarefaction. Two values of the pressure ratio, i.e., 0.1 and 0.5, are considered. A characteristic time equal to that needed to cross the orifice radius with the most probable molecular speed is introduced. It is found that it takes about ten characteristic times in order the flow rate to reach its steady value. The flow field past the orifice reaches the steady state during the same time in the transitional regime and it takes a longer time in the hydrodynamic regime.
Delta-doping of boron atoms by photoexcited chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Akazawa Housei
Published: February 2012

Boron delta-doped structures in Si crystals were fabricated by means of photoexcited chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Core electronic excitation with high-energy photons ranging from vacuum ultraviolet to soft x rays decomposes B2H6 molecules into fragments. Combined with in situ monitoring by spectroscopic ellipsometry, limited number of boron hydrides can be delivered onto a Si(100) surface by using the incubation period before the formation of a solid boron film. The boron-covered surface is subsequently embedded in a Si cap layer by Si2H6 photo-excited CVD. The crystallinity of the Si cap layer depended on its thickness and the substrate temperature. The evaluation of the boron depth profile by secondary ion mass spectroscopy revealed that boron atoms were confined within the delta-doped layer at a concentration of 2.5 × 1020 cm−3 with a full width at half maximum of less than 9 nm, while the epitaxial growth of a 130-nm-thick Si cap layer was sustained at 420 °C.
Scanning tunneling microscope-based local electroluminescence spectroscopy of p-AlGaAs/i-GaAs/n-AlGaAs double heterostructure
Authors: Watanabe Kentaro , Ichikawa Masakazu , Nakamura Yoshiaki , Kuboya Shigeyuki , Katayama Ryuji , Onabe Kentaro
Published: February 2012

Local characterization of electroluminescence (EL) from working light-emitting devices is a key to developing and improving their EL properties. The authors developed a scanning tunneling microscope- (STM-) EL technique based on conductive optical fiber probe STM with homemade bipolar sample holder and we demonstrated spatially resolved STM-EL nanospectroscopy of p-AlGaAs/i-GaAs/n-AlGaAs double heterostructure (110) cross-sections. The lateral spatial resolution of the STM-EL measurement was evaluated to be about 0.9 μm, whose origin was attributed to far-field EL collection by the tapered core of the optical fiber probe. This lateral spatial resolution agrees with the estimated spatial resolution of 1.1 μm in lateral and 1.2 μm in depth.
Laying your cards on the consulting table
Authors: Everitt Sally
Published: February 2012

Consultations are central to veterinary practice. They allow the veterinary surgeon to discuss options with the client to establish what is in the best interests of the animal patient. This requires effective communication through openness, transparency and an evidence‐based approach. In this article, Sally Everitt describes some of the techniques that can be used during consultations to achieve the best results for all involved.
Branching out: a guide to practice expansion
Authors: Terry Jane
Published: February 2012

The extension of practice services through the development of a branch network can boost practice profits significantly. Conversely, it can also be a considerable drain on the resources of an otherwise profitable business. Getting it right requires a strategic approach that is planned and executed carefully to minimise loss and to optimise profitability. Jane Terry describes some factors to consider.
A modern approach to equine dentistry 2. Identifying lesions
Authors: Tremaine Henry , Casey Miriam
Published: February 2012

This article, the second in a series of four to review recent developments equine dentistry, describes the common dental and oral lesions that may be seen during a routine dental examination in horses, the procedure for which was published in the January issue of In Practice (volume 34, pages 2 to 10). Part 3, to be published in the March issue, will consider how these lesions may be investigated further using appropriate imaging techniques, while Part 4, to be published in the April issue, will consider the techniques available for the prevention and treatment of equine dental disease.
An SSR-based linkage map of yardlong bean (Vigna unguiculata(L.) Walp. subsp.unguiculataSesquipedalis Group) and QTL analysis of pod length
Authors: Kongjaimun Alisa , Kaga Akito , Tomooka Norihiko , Somta Prakit , Shimizu Takehiko , Shu Yujian , Isemura Takehisa , Vaughan Duncan A. , Srinives Peerasak
Published: February 2012

Yardlong bean (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. unguiculata Sesquipedalis Group) (2n = 2x = 22) is one of the most important vegetable legumes of Asia. The objectives of this study were to develop a genetic linkage map of yardlong bean using SSR makers from related Vigna species and to identify QTLs for pod length. The map was constructed from 226 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers from cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. subsp. unguiculata Unguiculata Group), azuki bean (Vigna angularis (Willd.) Ohwi & Ohashi), and mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek) in a BC1F1((JP81610 × TVnu457) × JP81610) population derived from the cross between yardlong bean accession JP81610 and wild cowpea (Vigna unguiculata subsp. unguiculata var. spontanea) accession TVnu457. The markers were clustered into 11 linkage groups (LGs) spanning 852.4 cM in total length with a mean distance between adjacent markers of 3.96 cM. All markers on LG11 showed segregation distortion towards the homozygous yardlong bean JP81610 genotype. The markers on LG11 were also distorted in the rice bean (Vigna umbellata (Thunb.) Ohwi & Ohashi) map, suggesting the presence of common segregation distortion factors in Vigna species on this LG. One major and six minor QTLs were identified for pod length variation between yardlong bean and wild cowpea. Using flanking markers, six of the seven QTLs were confirmed in an F2population of JP81610 × TVnu457. The molecular linkage map developed and markers linked to pod length QTLs would be potentially useful for yardlong bean and cowpea breeding.