bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Media Constructions of Responsibility for the Production and Mitigation of Environmental Harms: The Case of Mercury-Contaminated Fish
Authors: Fitzgerald Amy , Baralt Lori B.
Published: June 2010

Within the literature examining media depictions of crime and the criminal justice system, very little attention has been paid to the ways in which harms to the environment and human health have been constructed. This is not entirely surprising, given that the discipline of criminology has been reticent in addressing environmental harm more generally. This gap in the criminological imagination is beginning to be addressed within the growing field of green criminology, which seeks to focus attention on environmental harms as an important area of criminological investigation. Using a green criminological lens, this paper examines the case of mercury-contaminated fish as depicted in the Globe and Mail and New York Times from 2003 through 2008. Through qualitative content analysis, we examine the construction of responsibility for mercury contamination and for mitigating the attendant risks. We find that, in explaining the contamination of fish, both newspapers problematize the regulation of mercury-releasing industries by the state and pay a great deal of attention to the responsibility the state has to inform the public about the risks. However, little attention is paid to the responsibility of the mercury-releasing industries, the commercial fish industry, and restaurants and supermarkets to protect consumers. Furthermore, media attention is mainly directed at the responsibility of individual consumers – particularly those deemed most at risk of being harmed by mercury contamination – to limit the amount of mercury-rich fish they consume. These media depictions simultaneously foster a sense of individualized responsibility and normalize the risks posed by this environmental hazard, which is made to appear virtually inevitable, something that requires management, partly by the state, but mostly by vulnerable consumers.
(2E)-3-(3,5-Dimethyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-1-(2,5-dimethyl-3-furanyl)prop-2-en-1-one
Authors: Asiri Abdullah Mohamed , Khan Salman A.
Published: June 2010

The title compound, (2E)-3-(3,5-dimethyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-1-(2,5-dimethyl-3-furanyl)prop-2-en-1-one (3) was synthesized in high yield by an aldol condensation between 3-acetyl-2,5-dimethylfuran and 3,5-dimethyl-1-phenylpyrazole-4-carboxaldehyde in ethanolic NaOH at room temperature. Its structure was fully characterized by elemental analysis, IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and EI-MS spectral analysis.
Processing of Polymer Nanocomposites Reinforced with Polysaccharide Nanocrystals
Authors: Dufresne Alain
Published: June 2010

Aqueous suspensions of polysaccharide (cellulose, chitin or starch) nanocrystals can be prepared by acid hydrolysis of biomass. The main problem with their practical use is related to the homogeneous dispersion of these nanoparticles within a polymeric matrix. Water is the preferred processing medium. A new and interesting way for the processing of polysaccharide nanocrystals-based nanocomposites is their transformation into a co-continuous material through long chain surface chemical modification. It involves the surface chemical modification of the nanoparticles based on the use of grafting agents bearing a reactive end group and a long compatibilizing tail.
Label Free Detection of CD4+ and CD8+ T Cells Using the Optofluidic Ring Resonator
Authors: Gohring John T. , Fan Xudong
Published: June 2010

We have demonstrated label free detection of CD4+ and CD8+ T-Lymphocyte whole cells and CD4+ T-Lymphocyte cell lysis using the optofluidic ring resonator (OFRR) sensor. The OFRR sensing platform incorporates microfluidics and photonics in a setup that utilizes small sample volume and achieves a fast detection time. In this work, white blood cells were isolated from healthy blood and the concentrations were adjusted to match T-Lymphocyte levels of individuals infected with HIV. Detection was accomplished by immobilizing CD4 and CD8 antibodies on the inner surface of the OFRR. Sensing results show excellent detection of CD4+ and CD8+ T-Lymphocyte cells at medically significant concentrations with a detection time of approximately 30 minutes. This work will lead to a rapid and low-cost sensing device that can provide a CD4 and CD8 count as a measure of HIV progression.
Power Consumption Analysis of Operating Systems for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Lajara Rafael , Pelegrí-Sebastiá José , Solano Juan J. Perez
Published: June 2010

In this paper four wireless sensor network operating systems are compared in terms of power consumption. The analysis takes into account the most common operating systems—TinyOS v1.0, TinyOS v2.0, Mantis and Contiki—running on Tmote Sky and MICAz devices. With the objective of ensuring a fair evaluation, a benchmark composed of four applications has been developed, covering the most typical tasks that a Wireless Sensor Network performs. The results show the instant and average current consumption of the devices during the execution of these applications. The experimental measurements provide a good insight into the power mode in which the device components are running at every moment, and they can be used to compare the performance of different operating systems executing the same tasks.
An Evaluation of the Role of Properdin in Alternative Pathway Activation on Neisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Agarwal Sarika , Ferreira Viviana P. , Cortes Claudio , Pangburn Michael K. , Rice Peter A. , Ram Sanjay
Published: June 2010

Properdin, a positive regulator of the alternative pathway (AP) of complement is important in innate immune defenses against invasive Neisserial infections. Recently, commercially available unfractionated properdin was shown to bind to certain biological surfaces, including Neisseria gonorrhoeae, which facilitated C3 deposition. Unfractionated properdin contains aggregates or high-order oligomers, in addition to its physiological “native” (dimeric, trimeric, and tetrameric) forms. We examined the role of properdin in AP activation on diverse strains of Neisseria meningitidis and N. gonorrhoeae specifically using native versus unfractionated properdin. C3 deposition on Neisseria decreased markedly when properdin function was blocked using an anti-properdin mAb or when properdin was depleted from serum. Maximal AP-mediated C3 deposition on Neisseriae even at high (80%) serum concentrations required properdin. Consistent with prior observations, preincubation of bacteria with unfractionated properdin, followed by the addition of properdin-depleted serum resulted in higher C3 deposition than when bacteria were incubated with properdin-depleted serum alone. Unexpectedly, none of 10 Neisserial strains tested bound native properdin. Consistent with its inability to bind to Neisseriae, preincubating bacteria with native properdin followed by the addition of properdin-depleted serum did not cause detectable increases in C3 deposition. However, reconstituting properdin-depleted serum with native properdin a priori enhanced C3 deposition on all strains of Neisseria tested. In conclusion, the physiological forms of properdin do not bind directly to either N. meningitidis or N. gonorrhoeae but play a crucial role in augmenting AP-dependent C3 deposition on the bacteria through the “conventional” mechanism of stabilizing AP C3 convertases.
Fluctuation of Peripheral Blood T, B, and NK Cells during a Menstrual Cycle of Normal Healthy Women
Authors: Lee Sungki , Kim Jeeyun , Jang Byungwoo , Hur Sungeun , Jung Unsuk , Kil Kihyun , Na Baegju , Lee Millina , Choi Youngmin , Fukui Atsushi , Gilman-Sachs Alice , Kwak-Kim Joanne Y.
Published: June 2010

Cyclical hormonal changes during an ovarian cycle may affect immune responses, which is crucial for the embryonic implantation. We aim to investigate whether the levels and activity of T, B, and NK cells change during a menstrual cycle. Twenty-two normally cycling women were enrolled and peripheral blood was drawn serially during a menstrual cycle. Intracellular cytokine expression of CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ cells, and Th1/Th2 cytokine-producing T cell ratios were determined using flow cytometric analysis. NK cell cytotoxicity was measured by flow cytometric analysis at E:T ratios of 50:1, 25:1, and 12.5:1 and also using LU at 20%. Proportions (percentage) of CD3+ (p = 0.046) and CD3+CD4+ (p = 0.002) T cells were increased in the follicular phase compared with the luteal phase. The levels of CD3−CD56+ (p = 0.010) and CD3−CD56dim (p = 0.012) NK cells and NK cytotoxicity at E:T ratio of 50:1, 25:1, and 12.5:1 and LU at 20% were significantly increased in the luteal phase compared with the follicular phase. Even though IL-10–producing CD3+CD4+ T cells were significantly lower in the midluteal phase as compared with the early follicular phase, proportions of CD19+ B cells, CD3+CD56+ NKT cells, Th1 cytokine-producing T cell subsets, and ratios of Th1/Th2 cytokine-producing T cells were not significantly changed during a menstrual cycle. We conclude that peripheral blood NK and T cell levels as well as NK cytotoxicity are changed during a menstrual cycle. Neuroendocrine regulation on immune responses is suggested during an ovarian cycle, which may be critical for embryonic implantation and pregnancy.
CD8+ T Cells Specific for ImmunodominantTrans-Sialidase Epitopes Contribute to Control ofTrypanosoma cruziInfection but Are Not Required for Resistance
Authors: Rosenberg Charles S. , Martin Diana L. , Tarleton Rick L.
Published: June 2010

CD8+ T cells are essential for controlling Trypanosoma cruzi infection. During Brazil strain infection, C57BL/6 mice expand parasite-specific CD8+ T cells recognizing the dominant TSKB20 (ANYKFTLV) and subdominant TSKB74 (VNYDFTLV) trans-sialidase gene (TS)-encoded epitopes with up to 40% of all CD8+ T cells specific for these epitopes. Although this is one of the largest immunodominant T cell responses described for any infection, most mice fail to clear T. cruzi and subsequently develop chronic disease. To determine if immunodominant TS-specific CD8+ T cells are necessary for resistance to infection, we epitope-tolerized mice by high-dose i.v. injections of TSKB20 or TSKB74 peptides. Tolerance induction led to deletion of TS-specific CD8+ T cells but did not prevent the expansion of other effector CD8+ T cell populations. Mice tolerized against either TSKB20 or TSKB74, or both epitopes simultaneously, exhibited transient increases in parasite loads, although ultimately they controlled the acute infection. Furthermore, BALB/c mice tolerized against the TSKD14 peptide effectively controlled acute T. cruzi infection. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that development of high-frequency CD8+ T cell populations focused on TS-derived epitopes contributes to optimal control of acute infection but is not required for the development of immune resistance.
Prevalence of Bovine Tuberculosis in Abattoirs of the Littoral and Western Highland Regions of Cameroon: A Cause for Public Health Concern
Authors: Awah Ndukum J. , Kudi A. Caleb , Bradley G. , Ane-Anyangwe I. N. , Fon-Tebug S. , Tchoumboue J.
Published: June 2010

Bovine tuberculosis (BTB) is widespread but poorly controlled in Africa andM. bovisis posing threats to human health. The risk of cattle handlers toM. bovisprevalence and public health significance of BTB in Cameroon were assessed. Slaughter inspection records from major cities revealed that BTB detection rates in cattle from 0.18% to 4.25% and BTB lesions were most common. Analyses of tissues and sera confirmed BTB in 31% (Ziehl-Neelsen), 51% (culture), and 60% (antibody detection) of test cattle. Among cattle handlers, 81.9% were aware of BTB, 67.9% knew that BTB is zoonotic, and 53.8% knew one mode of transmission but over 27% consumed raw meat and/or drank unpasteurized milk. Respondents who had encountered tuberculosis cases were more informed about zoonotic BTB(P<.05). Tuberculosis is prevalent in cattle destined for human consumption in Cameroon with serious public health implications. Targeted monitoring of infected animal populations and concerted veterinary/medical efforts are essential for control.
Quality of life in Swedish children with congenital ichthyosis
Authors: Gånemo Agneta
Published: June 2010

Congenital ichthyosis encompasses a large group of keratinizing disorders with widespread scaling and a variable degree of erythema. Little is known about the quality of life in children with congenital ichthyosis and the impact of the disease on their family. Fifteen children aged 5-16 years with lamellar ichthyosis, Netherton’s syndrome, epidermolytic hyperkeratosis or Harlequin ichthyosis, were investigated concerning the effect of their ichthyosis on their quality of life. This was measured with the established Children’s Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI), and the Dermatitis Family Impact questionnaire (DFI) modified by substituting the word ichthyosis for eczema. The questionnaires covered the preceding seven days and each had a maximum score of 30: the higher the score, the greater the Quality of Life impairment. The median score was 9.0 (range 2-19) for the CDLQI and 9.0 (range 3-21) for DFI. There was a significant correlation between the DFI and the CDLQI scores. The item in the CDLQI questionnaire that showed the highest score was “itchy, scratchy, sore or painful skin” and the most highly scored item in the DFI questionnaire was effect on “housework, e.g. washing, cleaning”; both items related to the children’s symptoms. The results of the study clearly establish that congenital ichthyosis impairs the quality of life of the affected children and their families.
Growth dynamics and cyclin expression in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma cell lines
Authors: Biskup Edyta , Manfé Valentina , Kamstrup Maria , Gniadecki Robert
Published: June 2010

We have investigated cell growth dynamics and cyclins B1 and E expression in cell lines derived from mycosis fungoides (MyLa), Sézary syndrome (SeAx), and CD30+ lympho-proliferative diseases (Mac1, Mac2a, JK). Mac1 and Mac2a had the highest growth rate (doubling time 18-28 h, >90% cycling cells) whereas SeAx was proliferating slowly (doub-ling time 55 h, approximately 35% cycling cells). Expression of cyclin B1 correlated positively with doubling time whereas expression of cyclin E was unscheduled and constant across the investigated cell lines. All cell lines exhibited high expression of PCNA. Thus, we concluded that cyclin B1 could be used for rapid screening of cell proliferation in malignant lymphocytes derived from cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.
Aerobic exercise in children with oxidative phosphorylation defects
Authors: Schreuder Luuk , Peters Gera , Nijhuis-van der Sanden Ria , Morava Eva
Published: June 2010

Fatigue and exercise intolerance are symptoms in children with metabolic myopathy. Frequently this is combined with muscle pain in children with mitochondrial myopathy. Offering therapeutic advice remains challenging in this patient group. Here we describe five children above the age of four years, with normal intelligence, myopathy, exercise intolerance, motor developmental delay, and fatigue, who were diagnosed with a mitochondrial dysfunction. Based on the positive experience of condition training in adults with mitochondrial disease and inactivity, aerobic exercise training was advised for all the children. Because of the lack of clear protocols for individualized mitochondrial myopathies, regular training was initiated. The Movement Assessment Battery of Children, the Jamar dynamometer for grip force, and the Bruce protocol treadmill test were applied for evaluation. No patient showed significant disease progression on a weekly scheme of strength training or on aerobic training during periods varying between 6 and 18 months. Only one out of the five patients has shown an improvement after a period of structured, aerobic training, demonstrating good compliance and motivation over the course of 18 months. Some patients developed severe muscle pain after explosive exercise. Even in a relatively homogenous, intelligent group of patients and motivated parents, we could not reach full compliance. With our case studies, we would like to draw attention to the importance and pitfalls of movement therapy in children with mitochondrial disease.
Transient phonemic paraphasia by bilateral hippocampus lesion in a case of limbic encephalitis
Authors: Kishi Masahiko , Sakakibara Ryuji , Ogata Takeshi , Ogawa Emina
Published: June 2010

Although the hippocampus has not typically been identified as part of the language and aphasia circuit, recent evidence suggests that the hippocampus is closely related to naming, word priming, and anomic aphasia. A 59-year old woman with limbic encephalitis of possible autoimmune etiology, after recovery of consciousness, presented with severe memory impairment in both anterograde and retrograde modalities, episodes of fear, hallucination and convulsion, and transient fluent, phonemic paraphasia, together with small sharp waves diffusely by EEG. Brain MRI revealed bilateral symmetric, discrete lesions in the body to the infundibulum of the hippocampus. The transient phonemic paraphasia noted in our patient may have been a result of primary damage in the hippocampus and its fiber connection to the Wernicke’s area or secondary partial status epilepticus that might have originated in the hippocampus.
Pulmonary Hypertension is Prevalent in Catheter and Arterio-Venous Access Hemodialysis
Authors: Hemnes Anna R. , Chittineni Devi , Astor Brad C. , Hassoun Paul M. , Atta Mohamed G.
Published: June 2010

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) has been described in patients undergoing hemodialysis and proposed to arise from overflow in arterio-venous grafts or fistulae. Whether PH is prevalent in patients undergoing catheter-based dialysis is unknown. Patients undergoing hemodialysis with an echocardiogram in two urban dialysis centers over a four-year period were included. Demographic data, comorbidities, dialysis access, laboratory and echocardiographic data were collected. A right ventricular systolic pressure of ≥45 mmHg defined PH. Forty out of ninety-one (44%) patients met the criteria for PH. The prevalence of catheter-based hemodialysis was similar in the two groups (30% in the PH vs. 33% in the no-PH group). PH patients were more likely to have extended hemodialysis vintage (52.6∓58.2 vs. 31.0∓33.7 months, P<0.05). Advanced left heart disease was not more prevalent in patients with PH although they were more likely to have right atrial and right ventricular enlargement (P<0.05). Mean serum phosphate was lower in the PH group (4.7∓1.4 vs. 5.5∓1.8 mg/dL, P<0.05). On multivariate analysis, lower phosphate levels were associated with higher risk of PH. We concluded that PH is prevalent in hemodialysis regardless of access type and may be because of disordered calcium and phosphate metabolism.
Outcome of Renal Transplantation in Indian Children with Primary Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis - A Single Center Experience
Authors: Vasudevan Anil , Iyengar Arpana , Phadke Kishore
Published: June 2010

Recurrence of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) following renal transplantation is associated with decreased allograft function and/or graft loss. The optimal specific management of recurrence during the post-transplant period is not yet clear. Plasmapheresis peri-operatively or following transplantation and other supportive measures such as higher doses of cyclosporine have been used in the clinical management of recurrence. We performed a retrospective analysis of ten children with FSGS who had renal transplants at our center between 1999 and 2008. Following transplantation, four (40%) patients developed recurrence of nephrotic syndrome (NS). We observed heterogeneity in the age at onset of NS, time to reach end-stage renal disease, and age at the time of transplant between those who had and did not have recurrences, but our small sample size precluded any definitive conclusions. All of the four patients were treated with plasmapheresis but the high cost limited the duration of therapy. In addition, they received cyclophosphamide instead of azathioprine or mycophenolate for three months. One patient lost his graft owing to recurrence while two (50%) of the four treated patients recovered completely and one remained proteinuric at the last follow-up. We concluded that recurrence of FSGS after renal transplantation remains an important cause of decreased graft survival and also that the cost of therapy is a limiting factor in providing optimal treatment for recurrence.
Similar Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate And C-Reactive Protein Sensitivities at the Onset of Septic Arthritis, Osteomyelitis, Acute Rheumatic Fever
Authors: Reitzenstein Jonathan E. , Yamamoto Loren G. , Mavoori Hareesh
Published: June 2010

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) are employed in the evaluation of patients with suspected septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, and acute rheumatic fever. The purpose of this study is to determine if one test has greater sensitivity (rises earlier) than the other. Laboratory data were retrieved for pediatric patients hospitalized with one of the above three conditions, who had both ESR and CRP tests done on or shortly prior to admission. Sensitivity calculations were performed for mild, moderate, and severe degrees of ESR and CRP elevation. Microcytic erythrocytes, as defined by mean corpuscular volume (MCV) less than 80 μL, were identified to see if this affects the ESR. ESR or CRP sensitivities depend on the cutoff value (threshold) chosen as a positive test. The sensitivities were similar for similar degrees of elevation. ESR and CRP discordance was not significantly related to MCV. We concluded that the CRP does not rise earlier than the ESR (their sensitivities are similar). Previously published conclusions are dependent on arbitrary thresholds. We could not find any evidence that MCV affects the ESR.
Isolated Short Stature As a Presentation of Celiac Disease in Saudi Children
Authors: Assiri Asaad Mohamed Abdullah
Published: June 2010

The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of isolated short stature as a clinical presentation of celiac disease in Saudi Arab children and whether some of the routine labora-tory tests performed to determine the cause of short stature could suggest the diagnosis of celiac disease. A total of 91 children with short stature were included in the study. Extensive endocrine and biochemical assessments, including total protein, serum albumin, calcium phosphate and alkaline phosphatase assays; renal function tests; coagulation profile; anti-endomysial antibodies and anti-tissue transglutaminase antibody, growth hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone, free-thyroxin (FT4) assays; stool tests for giardiasis; bone age; and endoscopic intestinal biopsies, were done for all children. Ten of the 91 children had positive intestinal biopsies in the form of total villous atrophy, an increase in crypt height, and an increase in intra-epithelial lymphocyte (IEL) numbers up to >40 IEL/100 EC (Type 3C) according to the Oberhuber classification, confirming the diagnosis of celiac disease. Five children had mild villous atrophy according to this classification (Type 3A), and they were considered to have potential celiac disease. Seventy-six children had normal intestinal biopsies. Therefore, the prevalence of celiac disease among Saudi children with short stature was 10.9%, and 4.3% of the children were diagnosed as having potential celiac disease. After confirming the diagnosis of celiac disease, all children were kept on a gluten-free diet and all of them showed improvement in their growth rate. We concluded that celiac disease is a very important cause of short stature in children without gastrointestinal complaints in Saudi Arabia. We highly recommend anti-tissue transglutaminase and anti-endomysial antibody screening tests, and a small bowel biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of celiac disease irrespective of the results of the antibody assays, in children with short stature in Saudi Arabia. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, children should be kept on a gluten-free diet so they can catch up their growth early before they develop permanent short stature.
Intraneural synovial sarcoma of the median nerve
Authors: Lipira Angelo B , Kasukurthi Rahul , Ray Wilson Z , Pruzansky Mark E , Mackinnon Susan E
Published: June 2010

Synovial sarcomas are soft-tissue malignancies with a poor prognosis and propensity for distant metastases. Although originally believed to arise from the synovium, these tumors have been found to occur anywhere in the body. We report a rare case of synovial sarcoma arising from the median nerve. To our knowledge, this is the twelfth reported case of intraneural synovial sarcoma, and only the fourth arising from the median nerve. Because the diagnosis may not be apparent until after pathological examination of the surgical specimen, synovial sarcoma should be kept in mind when dealing with what may seem like a benign nerve tumor.
ROLE OF COMORBIDITIES IN OPTIMIZING DECISION-MAKING FOR ALLOGENEIC HEMATOPOIETIC CELL TRANSPLANTATION
Authors: Sorror Mohamed L. , Storb Rainer F.
Published: June 2010

Allogeneic conventional hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) following high-dose, myeloablative conditioning regimens has been used since the 1970’s as potentially curative treatment for patients with malignant, hematological disorders. The toxicities of conditioning regimens have limited conventional HCT to relatively young patients in otherwise good medical condition. With the development of less toxic nonmyeloablative regimens and improvements in supportive care, increasing numbers of older and medically infirm patients have been treated by allogeneic HCT. Until recently, there has been almost no effort to evaluate the prevalence of comorbidities among HCT recipients and their impact on outcomes. We first evaluated the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) developed for patients with solid malignancies, for this purpose. While useful, it lacked sensitivity and specificity for the HCT setting. We next introduced the HCT-specific comorbidity index (HCT-CI) which was based on objective laboratory data to better define comorbidities. Here, we describe this development and illustrate the usefulness of the HCT-CI in predicting HCT outcomes in patients with myeloid and lymphoid malignancies undergoing allogeneic transplantation
The lived experiences of late-adolescent female suicide survivors: ‘A part of me died’
Authors: Hoffmann Willem A. , Myburgh Chris , Poggenpoel Marie
Published: June 2010

People’s thoughts often focus on the suicide victim immediately after a completed suicide. Yet, the real victims of such an event are those individuals who are left behind to cope with the aftermath of the suicide. This phenomenological psychological study explored the lived experiences of late-adolescent suicide survivors, particularly those negative experiences that seemed to worsen in the weeks and months after a significant other’s completed suicide. The research participants were five female late-adolescents (aged 17–22 years) who were recruited by means of purposive sampling at a South African tertiary institution and at youth camps. Data collection consisted of collage-facilitated, face-to-face phenomenological interviews. In addition, some participants provided documentary material in the form of personal diaries, letters and poems. The data analysis was conducted according to Giorgi’s phenomenological method. The following salient experiences emerged during the data analysis: guilt, self-blame, blaming others or God, anger, loss or restriction of ‘self’, depression, suboptimal behavioural coping patterns, changes in relationship dynamics, and suicidality. The results of this study can be used by mental health professionals and caregivers to support adolescent suicide survivors effectively, in the midst of their mourning.OpsommingMense se gedagtes fokus meestal op die selfmoordslagoffer onmiddellik na ’n voltooide selfmoord. Tog is die werklike slagoffers die persone wat agterbly om die lewe na die selfmoord te hanteer. Hierdie fenomenologies-sielkundige studie het die geleefde belewenisse van laat-adolessente oorlewendes ondersoek, spesifiek daardie negatiewe belewenisse wat skynbaar erger word in die weke en maande na ’n betekenisvolle ander se voltooide selfmoord. Die navorsingsdeelnemers was vyf vroulike laat-adolessente (17–22 jaar oud) wat gewerf is deur middel van doelgerigte selektering by ’n Suid-Afrikaanse tersiêre instelling en jeugkampe. Data-insameling het geskied aan die hand van collage-gefasiliteerde, aangesig-tot-aangesig fenomenologiese onderhoude. Sommige deelnemers het addisionele dokumente in die vorm van persoonlike dagboeke, briewe en gedigte beskikbaar gestel vir data-analise. Die data is geanaliseer volgens Giorgi se fenomenologiese metode. Die volgende belewenisse het na vore getree tydens die data-analise: skuldgevoelens, self-blaam/spyt, blameer ander/God, woede, verlies/inperking van ‘self’, depressie, sub-optimale gedragshanteringspatrone, veranderinge in verhoudingsdinamika, en selfmoordneigings. Die resultate van hierdie studie kan deur geestesgesondheidwerkers en versorgers aangewend word om adolessente selfmoordagtergeblewenes effektief te ondersteun in die rouproses.
The Stratification of Foods on the Basis of Overall Nutritional Quality: The Overall Nutritional Quality Index
Authors: Katz David L. , Njike Valentine Y. , Faridi Zubaida , Rhee Lauren Q. , Reeves Rebecca S. , Jenkins David J. A. , Ayoob Keith T.
Published: June 2010

Purpose.

Consumer understanding of nutrition information is key to making dietary choices consistent with guidelines. The development of an objective, science-based, and universally applicable system of nutrition guidance would be of considerable potential value to the public health.

Design.

A multidisciplinary expert panel was convened to develop the Overall Nutritional Quality Index (ONQI). Dietary guidelines, existing nutritional scoring systems, and other pertinent scientific literature were reviewed. An algorithm based on the overall nutritional quality of food was developed and subjected to consumer research and validation testing.

Results.

The ONQI algorithm incorporates over 30 entries representing both micronutrient and macronutrient properties of foods, as well as weighting coefficients representing epidemiologic associations between nutrients and health outcomes. The basic entry in the algorithm is a weighted trajectory score, which compares nutrient concentration in a food to the recommended concentration of a given nutrient in a healthful diet. In content validity testing, ONQI rankings and expert panel rankings correlated highly (R = .92; p < .001). In regression analysis, aggregated ONQI scores for total diet corresponded well with the Healthy Eating Index (p < .001) in the National Health and Nutrient Examination Survey 2003–2006 cohort (n = 15,900). Consumer research indicated strong appeal to consumers of the ONQI system in general, and the scores on a 1 to 100 scale specifically. A system for acquiring nutrient data, meeting U.S. Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture standards, has been established so that virtually any food, beverage, meal, or recipe can be scored.

Conclusions.

The ONQI is a sophisticated nutrition guidance system developed by a multidisciplinary group independently of all food industry interests with excellent initial performance in both consumer research and validation testing. Combined with a consumer education program, the ONQI has considerable potential to improve dietary patterns, and consequently the public health. Prospective study of effects on dietary patterns and health outcomes is warranted.
Size distributions of elemental carbon and its contribution to light extinction in urban and rural locations in the pearl river delta region, China
Authors: Yu H. , Wu C. , Wu D. , Yu J. Z.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. Elemental carbon (EC) in size-segregated aerosol samples were determined at five urban, one suburban, and one rural locations in the Pearl River Delta region in South China during 2006–2008 period. The size modal characteristics of EC were different at the urban and suburban/rural locations. The urban EC had a dominant condensation mode with a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) in the 0.36–0.43 μm range and a slightly less abundant mode in the droplet mode size (MMAD: 0.8–1.1 μm), while the suburban/rural EC had a prominent mode in the droplet mode size (MMAD: 0.7–1.1 μm) and a minor condensation mode (MMAD: 0.22–0.33 μm). Calculations using Mie theory and the measured size distributions of EC, organic carbon, and major inorganic ions indicate that EC-containing particles contributed 76±20% of the observed light extinction at the urban sites. Among the EC-containing particles, EC mass alone contributed 21±11% of the observed light extinction while non-EC materials on the EC particles (i.e., organic matter, ammonium sulfate, and water) contributed 55±15%. At the suburban/rural locations, EC-containing particles contributed 37–48% of the measured light extinction, with EC mass contributing 4–10% and non-EC coating materials contributing the remaining light extinction. Our results suggest that EC-containing particles were important to the overall light extinction in the urban atmospheres due to their more abundant presence from vehicular emissions. The EC-containing particles in the suburban/rural locations had a reduced but still significant contribution to light extinction budget.
On arc-polarized structures in the solar wind
Authors: Sonnerup B. U. Ö. , Haaland S. E. , Paschmann G.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. A theoretical model is proposed to account for some of the behavior of arc-polarized magnetic structures seen in the solar wind. To this end, an exact analytical solution is developed that describes infinite plane wave trains of arbitrary amplitude in a plasma governed by ideal Hall MHD. The main focus is on intermediate-mode wave trains, which display double-branched magnetic hodogram signatures similar to those seen in the solar wind. The theoretically derived hodograms have field rotation in the ion-polarized sense at a slightly depressed field magnitude on one branch and an electron-polarized rotation at a slightly enhanced field magnitude on the other branch. The two branches are joined at the two "turning points", at which the normal flow is exactly Alfvénic. The behavior is accounted for in terms of the opposite dispersive properties of ion and electron whistlers. The hodograms derived from the theory are shown to compare favorably with those of one event, observed by the Cluster spacecraft near the ecliptic plane, and one event at high heliographic latitude observed by the Ulysses spacecraft. However, these two observed structures comprise only a single full wave period, approximately from one turning point to the other and then back again. The theory can be used to predict propagation direction (away from, or towards, the sun) from magnetic data alone, provided the sign of the magnetic field component along the wave normal can be reliably determined. Under the same condition, it also predicts whether the ion-polarized branch should precede or follow the electron-polarized branch. Both behaviors are seen in the solar wind. The major shortcoming of the theory is that it fails to reproduce the observed saw-tooth like time series for the magnetic field, in which the field rotation is rapid in the ion sense and slow in the electron sense. Instead, the theory gives about the same rotation rates. Possible explanations for this discrepancy are discussed. Also discussed is the fact that the magnetic field measurements by Cluster, while giving high quality determinations of normal direction and normal field component for each of the four spacecraft, indicate a reversal of the normal field component and the predicted propagation sense during the event, as well as a wide spread in the four normal vector orientations.
Global variability of phytoplankton functional types from space: assessment via the particle size distribution
Authors: Kostadinov T. S. , Siegel D. A. , Maritorena S.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. A new method of retrieving the parameters of a power-law particle size distribution (PSD) from ocean color remote sensing data was used to assess the global distribution and dynamics of phytoplankton functional types (PFT's). The method retrieves the power-law slope, ξ, and the abundance at a reference diameter, N0, based upon the shape and magnitude of the particulate backscattering coefficient spectrum. Relating the PSD to PFT's on global scales assumes that the open ocean particulate assemblage is biogenic. The retrieved PSD's can be integrated to define three size-based PFT's by the percent volume concentration contribution of three phytoplankton size classes – picoplankton (0.5–2 μm in equivalent spherical diameter), nanoplankton (2–20 μm) and microplankton (20–50 μm). Validation with in-situ HPLC diagnostic pigments results in satisfactory match-ups for the pico- and micro-phytoplankton size classes. Global climatologies derived from SeaWiFS monthly data reveal PFT and particle abundance spatial patterns that are consistent with current understanding. Oligotrophic gyres are characterized by lower particle abundance and higher contribution by picoplankton-sized particles than transitional or eutrophic regions. Seasonal succession patterns for size-based PFT's reveal good correspondence between increasing chl and percent contribution by microplankton, as well as increasing particle abundance. Long-term trends in particle abundances are generally inconclusive yet are well correlated with the MEI index indicating increased oligotrophy (i.e. lower particle abundance and increased contribution of picoplankton-sized particles) during the warm phase of an El Niño event. This work demonstrates the utility and future potential of assessing phytoplankton functional types using remote characterization of the particle size distribution.
Aerodynamic roughness length estimation from very high-resolution imaging LIDAR observations over the Heihe basin in China
Authors: Colin J. , Faivre R. , Menenti M.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. Roughness length of land surfaces is an essential variable for the parameterisation of momentum and heat exchanges. The growing interest about the estimation of the surface turbulent flux parameterisation from passive remote sensing lead to an increasing development of models, and the common use of simple semi-empirical formulations to estimate surface roughness. Over complex surface land cover, these approaches would benefit from the combined use of passive remote sensing and land surface structure measurements from Light Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) techniques. Following early studies based on LIDAR profile data, this paper explores the use of imaging LIDAR measurements for the estimation of the aerodynamic roughness length over a heterogeneous landscape of the Heihe river basin, a typical inland river basin in the northwest of China. LIDAR points were used to extract a Digital Surface Model (DSM) and a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) from a single flight pass over an irrigated area covered by field crops, small trees arrays and tree hedges, with a ground resolution of 1 m and a total surface of 7.2 km2. As a first step, the DSM is used to estimate the plan surface density and frontal surface density of obstacles to wind flow and compute a displacement height and roughness length following strictly geometrical approaches. In a second step, both the DSM and DEM are introduced in a Computational Fluid Dynamics model (CFD) to calculate wind fields from the surface to the top of the Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL), and invert wind profiles for each calculation grid and compute a roughness length. Examples of the use of these three approaches are presented for various wind direction together with a cross-comparison of results on heterogeneous land cover and complex roughness element structures.
Mechanical Characterization of Particulate Aluminum Foams—Strain‐Rate, Density and Matrix Alloy versus Adhesive Effects
Authors: Lehmhus Dirk , Baumeister Joachim , Stutz Lennart , Schneider Eduard , Stöbener Karsten , Avalle Massimiliano , Peroni Lorenzo , Peroni Marco
Published: June 2010

The study evaluates mechanical properties of APM particulate aluminum foams built up from adhesively bonded Al foam spheres. Foams of matrix alloy AlSi10 are compared, with PM AlSi7 foams used as reference. The influence of density is studied both for quasi‐static and dynamic compressive loading in a range from ∼0.35 to 0.71 g cm−3. The effect of varying the bonding agent is evaluated for a single density and both strain rate levels by replacing the standard, high‐strength epoxy‐based adhesive with a polyamide of greatly increased ductility. The result is a clear shift of fracture events to higher strain levels, as well as the introduction of a strain‐rate dependency of strength.
Lateral Inhomogeneity in the Electronic Structure of a Conjugated Poly(3‐hexylthiophene) Thin Film
Authors: Kanai Kaname , Miyazaki Takahiro , Wakita Takanori , Akaike Kouki , Yokoya Takayoshi , Ouchi Yukio , Seki Kazuhiko
Published: June 2010

How annealing influences the morphology of a highly regioregular poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (RR‐P3HT) film at the substrate interface as well as the lateral inhomogeneity in the electronic structure of the film are elucidated. Whereas previous studies have reported that high‐molecular‐weight (MW) RR‐P3HT films tend to show low crystallinity even after annealing, it is found that high‐MW RR‐P3HT does show high crystallinity after annealing at high temperature for a long time. Photoemission electron microscopy (PEEM), X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy, and ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy results clearly resolve a considerable lateral inhomogeneity in the morphology of RR‐P3HT film, which results in a variation of the electronic structure depending on the local crystallinity. The PEEM results show how annealing facilitates crystal growth in a high‐MW RR‐P3HT film.
Self‐Assembled Heteroepitaxial Oxide Nanocomposite Thin Film Structures: Designing Interface‐Induced Functionality in Electronic Materials
Authors: MacManus‐Driscoll Judith L.
Published: June 2010

Achieving self‐assembling/self‐organizing systems is the holy grail of nanotechnology. Spontaneous organization is not unique to the physical sciences since nature has been producing such systems for millions of years. In biological systems global patterns emerge from numerous interactions among lower‐level components of the system. The same is true for physical systems. In this review, the self‐assembly mechanisms of oxide nanocomposite films, as well as the advantageous functionalities that arise from such ordered structures, are explored.
Synthesis of Aryl‐Substituted Pyrimidines by Site‐Selective Suzuki–Miyura Cross‐Coupling Reactions of 2,4,5,6‐Tetrachloropyrimidine
Authors: Hussain Munawar , Hung Nguyen Thai , Khera Rasheed Ahmad , Malik Imran , Zinad Dhafer Saber , Langer Peter
Published: June 2010

Suzuki–Miyaura reactions of 2,4,5,6‐tetrachloropyrimidine allow a convenient synthesis of mono‐, di‐, tri‐ and tetraarylpyrimidines which are not readily available by other methods. All reactions proceed with excellent site‐selectivity.
Low charge polyvinylamine nanogels offer sustained, low‐level gene expression
Authors: Khondee Supang , Yakovleva Tatyana , Berkland Cory
Published: June 2010

Cationic polymer charge and polymer degradability each play a crucial role for packaging and delivering plasmid DNA. High density cationic charge has been shown to enhance transfection efficiency but may give rise to undesirable toxicity. Polyvinylamine (PVAm) nanogels bearing discrete amounts of surface charge were used to systematically examine the balance between transfection efficiency and cytotoxicity. Poly(N‐vinylformamide) (PNVF) nanogels were prepared via an inverse emulsion polymerization reaction and crosslinked with a nondegradable or acid‐labile crosslinker. The nanogels were then hydrolyzed to yield varying degrees of primary amines. The degree of conversion from PNVF to PVAm was controlled using different concentrations of NaOH and hydrolysis times. PVAm nanogel size and charge ranged from 150 to 310 nm, and +3.5 to +18 mV, respectively. These cationic particles were then complexed with pDNA encoding for luciferase. The cytotoxicity of PVAm nanogels and the transfection efficiency of PVAm/DNA complexes were evaluated in carcinomic human alveolar basal epithelial cells (A549). The cytotoxicity of PVAm nanogels increased with increasing accessible charge as expected. Transfection efficiency increased with increasing amounts of amine groups for nondegradable nanogels. Interestingly, acid‐labile nanogels bearing low charge demonstrated more sustained gene transfection when compared with the more highly charged nanogels. These observations suggested that the use of degradable particles with less charge may reduce cytotoxicity without compromising overall transfection efficiency. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Enhancement of intervertebral disc cell senescence by WNT/β‐catenin signaling–induced matrix metalloproteinase expression
Authors: Hiyama Akihiko , Sakai Daisuke , Risbud Makarand V. , Tanaka Masahiro , Arai Fumiyuki , Abe Koichiro , Mochida Joji
Published: June 2010

Objective

To determine whether intervertebral disc (IVD) cells express β‐catenin and to assess the role of the WNT/β‐catenin signaling pathway in cellular senescence and aggrecan synthesis.

Methods

The expression of β‐catenin messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein in rat IVD cells was assessed by using several real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, immunohistochemical, and immunofluorescence analyses. The effect of WNT/β‐catenin on nucleus pulposus (NP) cells was examined by transfection experiments, an MTT assay, senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase staining, a cell cycle analysis, and a transforming growth factor (TGFβ)/bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) pathway–focused microarray analysis.

Results

We found that β‐catenin mRNA and protein were expressed in discs in vivo and that rat NP cells exhibited increased β‐catenin mRNA and protein upon stimulation with lithium chloride, a known activator of WNT signaling. LiCl treatment inhibited the proliferation of NP cells in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. In addition, there was an increased level of cellular senescence in LiCl‐treated cells. Long‐term treatment with LiCl induced cell cycle arrest and promoted subsequent apoptosis in NP cells. Activation of WNT/β‐catenin signaling also regulated the expression of aggrecan. We also demonstrated that WNT/β‐catenin signaling induced the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and TGFβ in NP cells.

Conclusion

The activation of WNT/β‐catenin signaling promotes cellular senescence and may modulate MMP and TGFβ signaling in NP cells. We hypothesize that the activation of WNT/β‐catenin signaling may lead to an increased breakdown of the matrix, thereby promoting IVD degeneration.