bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Query Optimization
Authors: Joshi Mukul , Srivastava Praveen Ranjan
Published: March 2013

Query optimization is an important aspect in designing database management systems, aimed to find an optimal query execution plan so that overall time of query execution is minimized. Multi join query ordering (MJQO) is an integral part of query optimizer. This paper aims to propose a solution for MJQO problem, which is an NP complete problem. This paper proposes a heuristic based algorithm as a solution of MJQO problem. The proposed algorithm is a combination of two basic search algorithms, cuckoo and tabu search. Simulation shows some exciting results in favour of the proposed algorithm and concludes that proposed algorithm can solve MJQO problem in less amount of time than the existing methods.
Foreign Market Entry Strategies in the North-Adriatic Area
Authors: Pauluzzo Rubens
Published: March 2013

The consolidation of economic and political relations in the North-Adriatic area and their formalization encouraged by the new institutional structures of Euro-regions are phenomena of central relevance to the actual European economic environment. These conditions have a significant influence on the strategic choices of local firms. In spite of the geographical proximity between Italy, Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia, cultural differences still act as important determinants in leading foreign investment strategies. The current study aims at analyzing the role played by cultural distance between the examined countries in affecting entry mode strategies followed by companies of the Italian region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. In particular, the analysis suggests that a larger cultural distance, together with specific market characteristics, may force companies to choose entry forms with a lower degree of control, while specific firm characteristics may have an opposite impact on the internationalization strategies.
Effect of Hofstede’s Cultural Differences in Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure
Authors: Romero Silvia , Fernandez-Feijoo Belen
Published: March 2013

This paper looks at culture differences in sustainability reporting among countries. The authors use data from the survey conducted by KPMG in 2008 within 22 countries, applying Hofstede’s framework. The authors find an effect of culture on the interest in highlighting the credibility of sustainability reports in different countries. Level of corporate social responsibility disclosure, on the other hand, does not change with cultural differences, but with the levels of enforcement of the regulations. The results are revealing, given that assurance statements are not mandatory. Companies in countries with collectivistic characteristics and low power distance do not need to increase their credibility in terms of the disclosure levels of corporate social responsibility; they are democratic and careful of their inner group. On the contrary, companies in countries with individualistic characteristics and high power distance need to run the extra mile to show their commitment and guarantee that their reporting on social responsibility is transparent.
Incorporating Maritime Stakeholder Perspectives for Implementing an ‘Inland-Depots-for-Empty-Containers’ System Using an Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Mittal Neha , Boilé Maria , Baveja Alok , Theofanis Sotiris
Published: March 2013

Container movement involves several stakeholders where each group is focused on achieving its own objectives. By actively considering the perspective of different maritime stakeholders, this paper identifies a set of implementation strategies and prioritizes them to successfully implement an ‘Inland-Depots-for-Empty-Containers’ (IDEC) system in a region. It builds on the authors’ earlier work that developed and evaluated an IDEC system to minimize the overall system costs associated with regional repositioning of empty containers. Based on the benefits, costs and risks perceived by the involved maritime stakeholders on IDEC implementation, the authors identify strategies that may facilitate the building process and establish the system sustainably. They judge and prioritize the strategies in an Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) framework and present results based on their analysis. The authors believe that this research will benefit authorities considering an IDEC implementation strategy and also AHP practitioners.
A Service-Oriented Approach for the Optimal Product/Service Design Business Process
Authors: Tsafarakis Stelios , Delias Pavlos , Matsatsinis Nikolaos
Published: March 2013

The optimal product design is an NP-hard marketing optimization problem, in which a firm aims at the maximization of its market share or profit. A manager that deals with the problem has to decide on a number of issues, such as how to simulate the consumer choice process, which optimization algorithm to apply, and how to model the competitors’ retaliatory moves. The existing information systems fail to provide the decision maker with the unique blend of techniques and resources required by the problem. In order to follow the way that marketing managers comprehend the optimal product process, in this paper the problem is broken down into distinct services, each one of them maps into a basic feature (simulation, optimization, competition analysis, etc.). All services are aggregated to a marketing decision support system by a service oriented architecture, achieving this way a decision-makers friendly environment, since the marketing managers are able to get a solution without the need to transfer data and parameters from one software to another, and without the need to coordinate manually the whole process.
Implications of Cultural Differences in International Projects
Authors: Jewels Tony , Albon Rozz
Published: March 2013

This research sets out to identify cultural factors that may need to be addressed in order to increase the chances of international IT project success. The management of projects across national boundaries and cultures is becoming an increasingly important topic as organizations throughout the world expand their globalization efforts. Using a case study example of a failed IT project conducted in Taiwan by an Australian project team, the issue of how national cultural differences contributed to this failure is used as the foundation for identifying how cultural differences might affect other international IT projects. Feedback from local students in a United Arab Emirates national university MIS project management course is analyzed and interpreted in an attempt to identify what cultural differences are likely to affect the management of projects in the Middle East region in particular and across national boundaries generally.
New species records for butterflies (Lepidoptera) on Herschel Island, Yukon, Canada, with notes on natural history
Authors: Leung Maria C. , Reid Donald G.
Published: March 2013

Comparisons of past and current butterfly species distributions are being used to gauge the effects of climatic change in various parts of the world. Historic butterfly records from Herschel Island, Yukon, Canada, presented an opportunity to do such a comparison in an Arctic tundra region known to have a diverse butterfly fauna. We compared historic species records (1916–1983) with newly collected ones (2007–2009) to assess possible changes in species distributions. Of the 21 species documented for Herschel Island, six were newly found and two were not reconfirmed. We postulate that warmer temperatures facilitated the apparent northerly range expansions of several species by making butterfly flight and dispersal possible. This is supported by interannual comparisons on a smaller time scale, 2007–2009. During this period, we observed accelerated butterfly phenology and higher relative abundance of butterflies associated with earlier snowmelt and with earlier and more intense early summer heating.
Pattern of Congenital Anomalies in Newborn: A Hospital-Based Study
Authors: El Koumi Mohamed A. , Al Banna Ehab A. , Lebda Ibrahim
Published: March 2013

Birth defects, encountered frequently by pediatricians, are important causes of childhood morbidity and mortality. Birth defects can be classified according to their severity, pathogenic mechanism, or whether they are involving a single system or multiple systems. This hospital-based prospective descriptive study highlights the prevalence of Congenital Anomalies (CAs) in one year among live born neonates delivered in Zagazig University Hospital (Egypt). All women giving birth to viable babies were included. Demographic details, associated risk factors and the type of CAs in all babies were recorded. Diagnosis of CAs was based on clinical evaluation, radiographic examination, ultrasonography, echocardiography and chromosomal analysis of the newborn whenever recommended. The overall incidence of CAs among live born neonates was 2.5%, as most of the cases were referred to Zagazig University Hospital (Egypt) for delivery. The musculoskeletal system (23%) was the most commonly involved followed by the central nervous system (20.3%). Involvement of more than one system was observed in (28.6%) cases. Among maternal and fetal risk factors; parental consanguinity, maternal under nutrition and obesity, positive history of an anomaly in the family, low birth weight, and prematurity were significantly associated with higher frequency of CAs (P<0.05), with non-significant differences for maternal age and the sex of the neonates. The current study highlights the prevalence of congenital anomalies in one year in Zagazig University Hospital. It revealed a high prevalence of congenital anomalies in our locality and stressed the importance of carrying out a thorough clinical examination of all neonates at birth.
Factors influencing the uptake of contraception services by Vatsonga adolescents in rural communities of Vhembe District in Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Lebese Rachel T. , Maputle Sonto M. , Ramathuba Dorah U. , Khoza Lunic B.
Published: March 2013

The aim of the study was to determine the factors that influence the uptake of contraception services by adolescents in the Vhembe district of Limpopo Province, South Africa. A qualitative research method which is explorative, descriptive and contextual in nature was used to investigate the phenomenon from the adolescents’ perspective. The target population comprised of adolescents residing in one of the six villages of Vhembe District. Data was collected through six focus group discussions until data saturation was achieved. Data was analysed using an open coding method. The findings revealed that adolescents are aware of the availability of contraceptive services. However, they lack a comprehensive knowledge about contraception and contraceptives, which led to negative attitudes towards using the services. Cultural health beliefs and attitudes were also identified as a barrier to the uptake and use of contraceptives. Recommendations were made on interventions to increase the uptake of contraception services amongst adolescents.Die doel met die studie was om te bepaal watter faktore beïnvloed adolessente in die Vembe distrik van Limpopo Provinsie, Suid Afrika se besluit om voorbehoedmiddels te gebruik. ’n Kwalitatiewe navorsingsmetode wat eksploratief, beskrywend en kontekstueel van aard is, is gebruik om die fenomeen vanuit die perspektief van die adolessent te ondersoek. Data is ingewin deur ses fokusgroepbesprekings todat ’n punt van dataversadiging bereik is. Data is met behulp van oop kodeering geanaliseer. Bevindinge het getoon dat die adolessente wel bewus is van die beskikbaarheid van voorbehoeddienste, alhoewel hulle kennis van voorbehoeding en voorbehoedmiddels gebrekkig is, en dit het tot ’n negatiewe houding jeens die gebruik van die dienste gelei. Kulturele en kulturele gesondheidsgelowe gelowe en houdings is ook geidentifiseer as ’n hindernis tot die gebruik van voorbehoedmiddels. Aanbevelings is gemaak ten opsigte van intervensies om die gebruik van voorbehoeddienste onder adolessente te bevorder.
Can symbols be ‘promoted’ or ‘demoted’?: Symbols as religious phenomena
Authors: Beyers Jaco
Published: March 2013

Religious symbols are part of our world, relating to another world. In order to understand the process by which symbols grow and develop, the particular context of a symbol is important. In this article a particular theory as to what symbols are, is presented. Religion presupposes the existence of two worlds: this-worldly (profane) and the other-worldly (sacred). The means of communication and reference between these two worlds are symbols. Two examples are investigated so as to indicate how symbols can over time either be demoted or promoted. In the case of the Asherah and asherah as related in the Old Testament a demotion of a symbol is illustrated. The growth of ancient Egyptian religion is an example of a possible promotion of symbols. The conditions under which these processes can occur are investigated.
Changes in Lipid Profiles and Other Biochemical Parameters in HIV-1 Infected Patients Newly Commenced on HAART Regimen
Authors: Denue Ballah Akawu , Alkali Mohammed Bashir , Abjah Ali Usman , Kida Ibrahim Musa , Ajayi Babajide , Fate Bala Zira
Published: March 2013

Abnormalities of lipid metabolism are common in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients and tend to be accentuated in those receiving antiretroviral therapy, particularly with protease inhibitors (PIs). However, there is a dearth of information on serum lipid profiles and biochemical parameters among treatment-naive HIV-positive patients in our environment. We found that after 24 months of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), there was a significant increase in serum lipids. After 24 months of HAART, renal impairment was associated with a low increase in mean HDL and a high increase in triglycerides (TG). In conclusion, abnormality of serum lipid is common and showed female preponderance among treatment-naive HIV patients in our environment. Patients with HIV infection on HAART should be screened for lipid disorders given their high prevalence as observed in this study, because of its potential for morbidity and mortality in patients on HAART.
A Case-Control Study of Esomeprazole plus Rebamipide vs. Omeprazole plus Rebamipide on Post-ESD Gastric Ulcers
Authors: Bunno Maki , Gouda Kyosuke , Yamahara Kunihiro , Kawaguchi Masanori
Published: March 2013

Objectives

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is useful for treating gastric tumors. Several trials have shown the efficacy of 4 or 8 weeks of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) administration for post-ESD ulcers. However, if the size of the post-ESD ulcer is larger than predicted, PPI administration alone might not be sufficient for the ulcer to heal within 4 weeks. There is no report about the efficacy of post-ESD gastric ulcers by esomeprazole. We examined retrospectively the efficacy of a combination therapy of esomeprazole plus rebamipide, a mucosal-protective antiulcer drug, on the acceleration of post-ESD ulcer healing comparing with omeprazole plus rebamipide.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent ESD for gastric neoplasia. We conducted a case-control study to compare the healing rates within 4 weeks effected by esomeprazole plus rebamipide (group E) and omeprazole plus rebamipide (group O). The sizes of the artificial ulcers were divided into normal-sized or large-sized.

Results

The baseline characteristics did not differ significantly between the two groups except age and sex. Stage S1 disease was observed in 27.6% and 38.7% of patients after 4 weeks of treatment in the group E and O, respectively. In large-sized artificial ulcers, the healing rate of stage S1 in group E is significantly higher than that in group O in 4 weeks.(25% VS 0%: P = 0.02)

Conclusions

The safety and efficacy profiles of esomeprazole plus rebamipide and omeprazole and rebamipide are similar for the treatment of ESD-induced ulcers. In large-sized ulcers, esomeprazole plus rebamipide promotes ulcer healing.
Does the Group Leader Affect Repayment Performance Differently?
Authors: Al-Azzam Moh'd , Heracleous Maria , Sarangi Sudipta
Published: March 2013

Theoretical models of group lending assume that all group members are identical in terms of their effect on repayment performance. In practice, however, this may not be true. We use a unique data set obtained from a survey of 160 borrowing groups in Jordan to investigate the impact of joint liability, screening and monitoring activities, and social ties of the group leader and other group members on repayment performance as measured by the intensity of default using a negative binomial II model. Our results suggest that the joint liability and screening activities of the leader are more strongly related to repayment performance than the same variables for the rest of the group members. Social ties of all members have a significant effect on repayment, while monitoring activities have no effect.
Re-evaluation of the lifetimes of the major CFCs and CH3CCl3 using atmospheric trends
Authors: Rigby M. , Prinn R. G. , O'Doherty S. , Montzka S. A. , McCulloch A. , Harth C. M. , Mühle J. , Salameh P. K. , Weiss R. F. , Young D. , Simmonds P. G. , Hall B. D. , Dutton G. S. , Nance D. , Mondeel D. J. , Elkins J. W. , Krummel P. B. , Steele L. P. , Fraser P. J.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. Since the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer and its amendments came into effect, growth rates of the major ozone depleting substances (ODS), particularly CFC-11, -12 and -113 and CH3CCl3, have declined markedly, paving the way for global stratospheric ozone recovery. Emissions have now fallen to relatively low levels, therefore the rate at which this recovery occurs will depend largely on the atmospheric lifetime of these compounds. The first ODS measurements began in the early 1970s along with the first lifetime estimates calculated by considering their atmospheric trends. We now have global mole fraction records spanning multiple decades, prompting this lifetime re-evaluation. Using surface measurements from the Advanced Global Atmospheric Gases Experiment (AGAGE) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Global Monitoring Division (NOAA GMD) from 1978 to 2011, we estimated the lifetime of CFC-11, CFC-12, CFC-113 and CH3CCl3 using a multi-species inverse method. A steady-state lifetime of 45 yr for CFC-11, currently recommended in the most recent World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) Scientific Assessments of Ozone Depletion, lies towards the lower uncertainty bound of our estimates, which are 544861 yr (1-sigma uncertainty) when AGAGE data were used and 524561 yr when the NOAA network data were used. Our derived lifetime for CFC-113 is significantly higher than the WMO estimates of 85 yr, being 10999121 (AGAGE) and 10997124 (NOAA). New estimates of the steady-state lifetimes of CFC-12 and CH3CCl3 are consistent with the current WMO recommendations, being 11195132 and 11295136 yr (CFC-12, AGAGE and NOAA respectively) and 5.044.925.20 and 5.044.875.23 yr (CH3CCl3, AGAGE and NOAA respectively).
MU head echo observations of the 2010 Geminids: radiant, orbit, and meteor flux observing biases
Authors: Kero J. , Szasz C. , Nakamura T.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. We report Geminid meteor head echo observations with the high-power large-aperture (HPLA) Shigaraki middle and upper atmosphere (MU) radar in Japan (34.85° N, 136.10° E). The MU radar observation campaign was conducted from 13 December 2010, 08:00 UTC to 15 December, 20:00 UTC and resulted in 48 h of radar data. A total of ~ 270 Geminids were observed among ~ 8800 meteor head echoes with precisely determined orbits. The Geminid head echo activity is consistent with an earlier peak than the visual Geminid activity determined by the International Meteor Organization (IMO). The observed flux of Geminids is a factor of ~ 3 lower than the previously reported flux of the 2009 Orionids measured with an identical MU~radar setup. We use the observed flux ratio to discuss the relation between the head echo mass–velocity selection effect, the mass distribution indices of meteor showers and the mass threshold of the MU radar.
Growth increment periodicity in the shell of the razor clam Ensis directus using stable isotopes as a method to validate age
Authors: Cardoso J. F. M. F. , Nieuwland G. , Witbaard R. , van der Veer H. W. , Machado J. P.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. To evaluate the role of the razor clam Ensis directus in Dutch coastal waters, assessment and understanding its population dynamics is important. As such, the age structure of the population forms a key parameter. Accurate age determination in bivalve shells is not always straightforward due to the difficulty of interpreting externally visible growth lines. In the present paper, we aimed at validating the seasonality in growth line formation using visual techniques in combination with stable oxygen and carbon isotope analyses (δ18O and δ13C). High δ18O values in the shell coincided with growth marks on the external surface of the valve and in acetate peels of the shell's cross section. Most shell δ18O samples were assigned to the months June to September. From November to March no samples were retrieved indicating that the shell did not grow. The lowest reconstructed temperature (6.1 °C) suggests that ~6 °C may be the threshold temperature for growth. Nevertheless, most of the reconstructed values fell above 14.5 °C indicating growth occurred mainly in the summer at relatively high temperatures. Shell δ13C profiles followed a more or less seasonal cycle but no direct relationship could be made between δ13C values and annual growth lines. Although counting external annual growth lines led to a correct estimation of age and consequently of growth rates, we recommend analysing acetate peels of cross-sections to support the distinction between annual lines and disturbance lines.
A particle based simulation model for glacier dynamics
Authors: Åström J. A. , Riikilä T. I. , Tallinen T. , Zwinger T. , Benn D. , Moore J. C. , Timonen J.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. A particle-based computer simulation model was developed for investigating the dynamics of glaciers. In the current model, large ice bodies are made of discrete elastic particles which are bound together by massless and elastic beams. The beams can break which induces brittle behaviour. At loads below fracture, beams may also break and reform with small probabilities in order to incorporate slowly deforming viscous behaviour in the model. This model has the advantage that it can simulate important physical processes such as ice calving and fracturing in a more realistic way than traditional continuum models. Two simulations were performed: (1) calving of an ice block partially supported in water, which could represent a grounded marine glacier terminus, and (2) fracturing of an ice block on an inclined plane of varying basal friction, which could represent transition to fast flow or surging. For benchmarking purposes the deformation of an ice block on a slip-free surface was compared to that of a similar block simulated with a Finite Element full-Stokes continuum model. In spite of several simplifications, which include restriction to two-dimenions and simplified rheology for water, the model introduced was able to reproduce the size distributions of the icebergs and the debris observed in calving. The size distributions we produce may be approximated by universal scaling laws. On a moderate slope, a large ice block was stable as long as there was enough of friction against the substrate. This was a quiescent state. For a critical length of frictional contact global sliding began, and the model block disintegrated in a manner suggestive of a surging glacier. In this case the fragment size distribution produced was typical of a grinding process.
Looking after the left-behind families of overseas Filipino workers: The Philippine experience
Authors: Asis Maruja M.B.
Published: March 2013

Article 16.3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that “[t]he family is the
natural and fundamental group unit of society and is entitled to protection by society and the
State.” This task has become a lot more challenging in the age of migration, particularly under a
migration regime wherein only workers are allowed admission to another country under specific
terms while their family members are left in the countries of origin. To date, the protection
and promotion of the welfare of left-behind families is assumed to be the sole responsibility of
countries of origin. Based on the experience of the Philippines as an origin country, this paper
outlines the impact of international migration on the families of migrants; describes institutions,
programs and services developed by the government and other stakeholders to promote their
protection and welfare; and concludes with recommendations for transnational cooperation to
ensure that the families of migrant workers are not left behind as participants in policy, research
and advocacy.
Destination Choices of Individual International Travellers
Authors: Belenkiy Maksim , Riker David
Published: March 2013

The authors use a set of econometric models to analyse the destination choices of international travellers who responded to the 2009 Survey of International Air Travelers of the US Department of Commerce. The models take into account the demographic characteristics of the individual travellers. The authors estimate that the elasticity of the number of travellers to a country with respect to airfares ranges from –0.953 to –0.810, and the elasticity with respect to the level of consumer prices in the destination country ranges from –0.273 to –0.204.
The Impact of Hurricane Strikes on Tourist Arrivals in the Caribbean
Authors: Granvorka Charley , Strobl Eric
Published: March 2013

The authors quantify the impact of hurricane strikes on the tourism industry in the Caribbean. To this end they first derive a hurricane destruction index that allows them to calculate the actual wind speed experienced at any locality relative to the hurricane eye of a passing or land falling hurricane. They then employ this hurricane index in a cross-country panel data context to estimate its impact on country-level tourist numbers. The results suggest that an average hurricane strike causes tourism arrivals to be about 2% lower than they would have been had no strike occurred.
The Idea of Labyrinth (Migong) in Chinese Building Tradition
Authors: Zou Hui
Published: March 2013

The concept of labyrinth as a design idea is prevalent throughout the history of Western architecture. In the late-eighteenth century when the Western Jesuits built a labyrinth as a part of a "Western-like" garden within the Chinese imperial garden Yuanming Yuan, the labyrinth appeared exotic and enjoyable for the Chinese. This essay explores the idea of labyrinth in Chinese building tradition through analyzing the historical literature of imperial buildings, imperial mausoleums, and gardens. The analyzed cases of labyrinth include the Perplexing Multistoried Buildings (Milou), the thirteen Ming imperial mausoleums, the imperial gardens imitating fairylands, and the rockery hill in a literati garden. The essay relates the discovered idea of labyrinth to Confucian and Chinese cosmological aesthetics. The revealed perception of labyrinth facilitates the understanding of the encounter between Western and Chinese concepts of labyrinth in early modernity. In addition, it aids in the development of a comparative perspective on the meaning of labyrinth in the art of building.
Long-term Effect of Aesthetic Education on Visual Awareness
Authors: Funch Bjarne Sode , Krøyer Louise Lidang , Roald Tone , Wildt Elisabeth
Published: March 2013

A class of fourth-graders (nine-to-ten-year-olds) was taught art appreciation one day a week during an entire school year. Three years later their performance in visual awareness was tested and compared to the performance of pupils of the same age from another class who had not received any particular education in art appreciation. The results show that the young people who participated in the educational program performed notably better in visual awareness than those who did not.
Development and Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Non‐Violent and Violent Offending Behavior Scale (NVOBS)
Authors: Thornton Abigail J.V. , Graham‐Kevan Nicola , Archer John
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this research was to develop a psychometrically sound measure of violent and non‐violent offending, suitable for both male and female participants in general (non‐forensic) samples. Potential items were selected from existing measures. A sample of 653 British university students completed all items, and their responses were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis and validated with confirmatory factor analysis. There were five separate factors (general violence, drug‐related offenses, partner violence, theft, and criminal damage), which were confirmed with acceptable fit indices. The five‐factor model applied to both males and females. Each subscale demonstrated good internal consistency, with alphas for each factor ranging from moderate to good. This new measure is a potentially valuable research tool for investigating people's involvement in violent and non‐violent offending. The importance of examining the psychometric properties of scales, and confirming the category groupings using CFA of the items is outlined. Aggr. Behav. 39 :171‐181, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Soft Iron/Silicon Composite Tubes for Magnetic Peristaltic Pumping: Frequency‐Dependent Pressure and Volume Flow
Authors: Fuhrer Roland , Schumacher Christoph M. , Zeltner Martin , Stark Wendelin J.
Published: March 2013

The combination of force and flexibility enables controlled and soft movements. In sharp contrast, presently used machines are solid and mostly based on stiff driveshafts or cog wheels. Magnetic elastomers are realized through dispersion of small particles in polymer matrices and have attracted significant interest as soft actuators for controlled movement or conveying and are particularly attractive candidates for magnetic pump applications. At present, low magnetic particle loading and thus limited actuator strength have restricted the application of such materials. Here, the direct incorporation of metal microparticles into a very soft and flexible silicone and its application as an ultra‐flexible, yet strong magnetic tube, is described. Because metals have a far higher saturation magnetization and higher density than oxides, the resulting increased force/volume ratio afforded significantly stronger magnetic actuators with high mechanical stability, flexibility, and shape memory. Elliptical inner diameter shape of the tubing allowed a very efficient contraction of the tube by applying an external magnetic field. The combination of magnetic silicone tubes and a magnetic field generating device results in a magnetic peristaltic pump.
Buckling‐Based Strong Dry Adhesives Via Interlocking
Authors: Chen Chi‐Mon , Chiang Chang‐Lung , Lai Chien‐Lin , Xie Tao , Yang Shu
Published: March 2013

High‐aspect‐ratio shape‐memory polymer (SMP) pillar arrays are investigated as a new type of dry adhesive based on buckling and interlocking mechanism. When two identical SMP pillar arrays are engaged at 80 °C, above the glass transition temperature at a preload larger than the critical buckling threshold, the pillars are deformed and become interweaved and/or indented with each other. After cooling to room temperature, strong pull‐off forces are observed in the normal and shear directions, both of which are much larger than those from pillar‐to‐flat surface and flat‐to‐flat surface contact. From finite element anaylsis (FEA) and comparison of measured and calculated adhesion values using different contact mechanics models, it is shown that interweaved pillars are the main source that contributes to the pillar‐to‐pillar adhesion and the indented pillars set the lower limit, whereas the probability of interdigitation is very low. Further, it is found that interweaved pillars are primarily responsible for the decreased adhesion strength and increased anisotropy when the pillar spacing became larger. Finally, it is shown that the bonded pillars can be easily separated after reheating to 80 °C due to significant drop of modulus of SMPs.
Interstitial Duplication of 2q32.1–q33.3 in a Patient With Epilepsy, Developmental Delay, and Autistic Behavior
Authors: Usui Daisuke , Shimada Shino , Shimojima Keiko , Sugawara Midori , Kawasaki Hajime , Shigematu Hideo , Takahashi Yukitoshi , Inoue Yushi , Imai Katsumi , Yamamoto Toshiyuki
Published: March 2013

Duplications of the 2q33 region are rare; to date, only 13 patients have been reported to have this chromosomal abnormality. The reported duplications are of varying size, and the patients shared developmental delay and minor dysmorphic findings. In this study, we identified a duplication of 2q32.1–q33.3 in a patient with psychomotor developmental delay, epilepsy, and autistic behavior. The duplicated region of this patient was reciprocal to the 2q32–q33 deletion syndrome. Chromosomal microarray testing confirmed the 19.5 Mb of duplication that includes over 100 genes, some of which could have functional relevance to the neurological features of this patient. The SATB homeobox 2 gene (SATB2)—the primary gene responsible for the 2q32–q33 deletion syndrome—may be one of them, because of its expression in the cortical projection neurons of the developing brain. The duplication of the potassium channel tetramerisation domain‐containing 18 gene (KCTD18) and the ADAM metallopeptidase domain 23 gene (ADAM23) may also contribute to the phenotype. FISH analysis confirmed a tandem configuration of the duplicated segments. This result is in agreement with our previous study, in which we observed that duplicated segments as interstitial duplications are generally inserted in the tandem configuration. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simpson–Golabi–Behmel Syndrome Type 1 and Hepatoblastoma in a Patient With a Novel Exon 2–4 Duplication of the GPC3 Gene
Authors: Mateos María Elena , Beyer Katrin , López‐Laso Eduardo , Siles Juan López , Pérez‐Navero Juan Luis , Peña María José , Guzmán Juana , Matas Juliana
Published: March 2013

Mutations in the gene encoding glypican (GPC) 3 appear to be responsible for most cases of Simpson–Golabi–Behmel syndrome type 1. Duplication of the GPC4 gene has also been associated to this syndrome; however, no duplications involving GPC3 have been related. We describe a family that harbors a novel exon 2–4 duplication event leading to a truncating germline mutation of the GPC3 gene that, to our knowledge, has not been previously reported. GPC3 transcripts that carry this duplication bear non‐functional proteins making its pathogenic role highly probable. The absence of a functional GPC3 may alter the normal differentiation of embryonal mesodermal tissues predisposing to the development of embryonal tumors, as the index case studied who developed a hepatoblastoma at age 9 months. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Trilateral Retinoblastoma in a Patient With Peutz–Jeghers Syndrome
Authors: Raizis Anthony M. , Van Mater David , Aaltonen Lauri A. , Lohmann Dietmar , Cheale Michelle S. , Bickley Vivienne M. , George Peter M. , Zhou Yaolin , Rosoff Philip M.
Published: March 2013

Germline loss of function mutations in tumor suppressor genes RB1 and LKB1/STK11 are associated with the autosomal dominant cancer predisposing syndromes familial retinoblastoma and Peutz–Jeghers syndrome (PJS), respectively. We present a rare case of a young woman with trilateral retinoblastoma diagnosed as an infant who survived and was then diagnosed with PJS as a teenager. There was no family history of either disorder. Analysis of the LKB1/STK11 gene sequence identified a germline frameshift mutation (c.107del) leading to a nonsense mutation near the N‐terminus of the protein, confirming a clinical diagnosis of Peutz–Jeghers syndrome. Extensive RB1 gene analysis failed to detect germline mutations or deletions, and immunohistochemical analysis of her ocular tumors demonstrated nuclear staining of immunoreactive pRB. This result suggests that the RB1 gene is intact. We estimate the chance of trilateral retinoblastoma and PJS occurring in the same individual at approximately 1 in 134 billion live births, and we discuss the possibility that this case could be explained by a putative modifier of pRB action that is associated with the LKB1/STK11 pathway. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Replication of Genome Wide Association Identified Candidate Genes Confirm the Role of Common and Rare Variants inPAX7andVAX1in the Etiology of Nonsyndromic CL(P)
Authors: Butali Azeez , Suzuki Satoshi , Cooper Margaret E. , Mansilla Adela M. , Cuenco Karen , Leslie Elizabeth J. , Suzuki Yasushi , Niimi Teruyuki , Yamamoto Masahiko , Ayanga Gongorjav , Erkhembaatar Tudevdorj , Furukawa Hiroo , Fujiwawa Kumiko , Imura Hideto , Petrin Aline L. , Natsume Nagato , Beaty Terri H. , Marazita Mary L. , Murray Jeffery C.
Published: March 2013

Following recent genome wide association studies (GWAS), significant genetic associations have been identified for several genes with nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL(P)). To replicate two of these GWAS signals, we investigated the role of common and rare variants in thePAX7andVAX1genes. TaqMan genotyping was carried out for SNPs inVAX1andPAX7and transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) was performed to test for linkage and association in each population. Direct sequencing in and around thePAX7andVAX1genes in 1,326 individuals of European and Asian ancestry was done. The TDT analysis showed strong associations with markers inVAX1(rs7078160,P = 2.7E−06 and rs475202,P = 0.0002) in a combined sample of Mongolian and Japanese CL(P) case–parent triads. Analyses using parent‐of‐origin effects showed significant excess transmission of the minor allele from both parents with the effect in the mothers (P = 6.5E−05, OR (transmission) = 1.91) more striking than in the fathers (P = 0.004, OR (transmission) = 1.67) forVAX1marker rs7078160 in the combined Mongolian and Japanese samples when all cleft types were combined. The rs6659735 trinucleotide marker inPAX7was significantly associated with all the US cleft groups combined (P = 0.007 in all clefts andP = 0.02 in CL(P)). Eight rare missense mutations found inPAX7and two rare missense mutations inVAX1. Our study replicated previous GWAS findings for markers inVAX1in the Asian population, and identified rare variants inPAX7andVAX1that may contribute to the etiology of CL(P). Determining the role of rare variants clearly warrants further investigation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of Tibial Osteopathy Occurrence in Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Italian Patients
Authors: Morcaldi Guido , Clementi Maurizio , Lama Giuliana , Gabrielli Orazio , Vannelli Silvia , Virdis Raffaele , Vivarelli Rossella , Boero Silvio , Bonioli Eugenio
Published: March 2013

Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is a common autosomal dominant disorder characterized by high penetrance, widely variable expressivity and occurrence of specific skeletal changes such as tibial osteopathy (TO). We collected data on patients referred to the Italian Neurofibromatosis Study Group in order to compare clinical features between 49 NF1 patients with TO, and 98 age‐matched NF1 patients without TO, and to determine whether the presence of TO is associated with a different risk of developing the typical NF1 complications. We assessed both groups for: age at diagnosis of NF1, gender distribution, family history, gender inheritance, presence of scoliosis, sphenoid wing osteopathy, other skeletal abnormalities, macrocrania, hydrocephalus, plexiform neurofibromas, tumors, optic pathway gliomas, T2H (high‐signal intensity areas on T2 weighted brain MRI), epilepsy, headache, mental retardation, cardiovascular malformations, and Noonan phenotype. Patients of both groups were subdivided by gender and re‐evaluated for these items. Statistical comparison was carried out between the two groups of patients for each feature. We collected data on type of treatment and on the clinical conditions of NF1‐TO patients after follow‐up. Patient's age at NF1 diagnosis was significantly younger in NF1‐TO subjects compared with NF1 subjects without TO, and the incidence of T2H was significantly reduced in NF1‐TO males compared with NF1 males without TO. The presence of TO does not imply that there is an increased risk of developing typical complications of NF1 (e.g., optic pathway glioma, plexiform neurofibroma, etc.), however, it does allow us to make an earlier diagnosis of NF1. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel low‐energy hybrid process for the removal of organic contaminants in ultrapure water systems
Authors: Sun T. , Chen K.
Published: March 2013

To achieve the goal of implementation of low‐energy and low‐chemical usage for trace organic compound removal, the hybrid oxidation/adsorption purification system using nitrogen‐doped titanium dioxide catalytic oxidation followed by activated carbon adsorption was proposed in this paper. When isopropyl alcohol, ethylene glycol, and urea were selected as model components, superior oxidation effects were achieved by combination of nitrogen‐doped titanium dioxide with 254 nm UV unit than by traditional high‐energy‐consumed 185 nm UV unit, which indicated such configuration would be an ideal candidate to replace the current high‐energy‐consumed UV unit. By incorporating this new configuration into the semiconductor wastewater recycling system, the granule‐activated carbon bed adsorption efficiency for total organic carbon was compared with the granule‐activated carbon adsorption efficiency for total organic carbon in traditional purification system, where the 185 nm UV lamp was used as oxidation unit. The experimental results showed that the hybrid low energy consumption catalytic oxidation/adsorption system had higher efficiency than the traditional high‐energy‐consumed oxidation/adsorption system for trace organic compound removal. This was because the radicals formed in the UV oxidation process reacted with the organic compounds adsorbed on the activated carbon and regenerated the adsorption sites. This self‐cleaning mechanism effectively extended the lifetime of activated carbon bed and increased its adsorption capability. © 2013 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and multiplexing of microsatellite loci for the near threatened freshwater mussel Potomida littoralis (Cuvier, 1798) using 454 sequencing
Authors: Froufe E. , Sobral C. , Teixeira A. , Lopes A. , Sousa R. , Varandas S. , Lopes‐Lima M.
Published: March 2013

The Unionidae are among the most endangered fauna in the world and globally in decline. They are particularly vulnerable to habitat loss and fragmentation, susceptible to flow, pollution and climatic disturbances and introduction of invasive species. Despite their well‐recognized ecological and conservation importance, there is a surprising lack of genomic resources currently available for European species.

The aim of this study was to develop and characterize microsatellites for the near threatened freshwater mussel,Potomida littoralisusing 454 sequencing.

In order to improve genotyping throughput as well as cost‐effectiveness, two multiplex‐PCR reactions were designed to amplify 16 new loci. All the new 16 microsatellites were successfully combined in two multiplexed PCR with the number of alleles ranging from 2 to 25 per locus (with a mean of 10), confirming the utility of the new markers.

The new genetic markers can therefore be used for studying the population genetic structure and evolution of this species, e.g. to examine current levels of genetic variability within and between populations and thus to contribute to conservation and management. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding phenotypic responses to global change
Authors: Gangoso Laura , Márquez‐Ferrando Rocío , Ramírez Francisco , Gomez‐Mestre Ivan , Figuerola Jordi
Published: March 2013

Editor's suggested further reading in BioEssays: Evolution in response to climate change: In pursuit of the missing evidence Abstract

How will fish that evolved at constant sub‐zero temperatures cope with global warming? Notothenioids as a case study Abstract
Dual‐color‐emitting green fluorescent protein from the sea cactus Cavernularia obesa and its use as a pH indicator for fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Ogoh Katsunori , Kinebuchi Takashi , Murai Mariko , Takahashi Takeo , Ohmiya Yoshihiro , Suzuki Hirobumi
Published: March 2013

We isolated and characterized a green fluorescent protein (GFP) from the sea cactus Cavernularia obesa. This GFP exists as a dimer and has absorption maxima at 388 and 498 nm. Excitation at 388 nm leads to blue fluorescence (456 nm maximum) at pH 5 and below, and green fluorescence (507 nm maximum) at pH 7 and above, and the GFP is remarkably stable at pH 4. Excitation at 498 nm leads to green fluorescence (507 nm maximum) from pH 5 to pH 9. We introduced five amino acid substitutions so that this GFP formed monomers rather than dimers and then used this monomeric form to visualize intracellular pH change during the phagocytosis of living cells by use of fluorescence microscopy. The intracellular pH change is visualized by use of a simple long‐pass emission filter with single‐wavelength excitation, which is technically easier to use than dual‐emission fluorescent proteins that require dual‐wavelength excitation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bacterial biofilms and capsular contracture in patients with breast implants
Authors: Rieger U M , Mesina J , Kalbermatten D F , Haug M , Frey H P , Pico R , Frei R , Pierer G , Lüscher N J , Trampuz A
Published: March 2013

Background

It has been hypothesized that bacterial biofilms on breast implants may cause chronic inflammation leading to capsular contracture. The association between bacterial biofilms of removed implants and capsular contracture was investigated.

Methods

Breast implants explanted between 2006 and 2010 at five participating centres for plastic and reconstructive surgery were investigated by sonication. Bacterial cultures derived from sonication were correlated with patient, surgical and implant characteristics, and the degree of capsular contracture.

Results

The study included 121 breast implants from 84 patients, of which 119 originated from women and two from men undergoing gender reassignment. Some 50 breast prostheses were implanted for reconstruction, 48 for aesthetic reasons and 23 implants were used as temporary expander devices. The median indwelling time was 4·0 (range 0·1–32) years for permanent implants and 3 (range 1–6) months for temporary devices. Excluding nine implants with clinical signs of infection, sonication cultures were positive in 40 (45 per cent) of 89 permanent implants and in 12 (52 per cent) of 23 temporary devices. Analysis of permanent implants showed that a positive bacterial culture after sonication correlated with the degree of capsular contracture: Baker I, two of 11 implants; Baker II, two of ten; Baker III, nine of 23; and Baker IV, 27 of 45 (P < 0·001). The most frequent organisms were Propionibacterium acnes (25 implants) and coagulase-negative staphylococci (21).

Conclusion

Sonication cultures correlated with the degree of capsular contracture, indicating the potential causative role of bacterial biofilms in the pathogenesis of capsular contracture. Registration number: NCT01138891 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).