bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Problem-Solving Skills Training for Adults With Mild Intellectual Disability: A Multiple Case Study
Authors: Anderson Gillian , Kazantzis Nikolaos
Published: September 2008

Social problem-solving training has been successful in improving maladaptive behaviour and problem-solving skills for individuals with intellectual disability. However, in contrast to individuals without intellectual disability there has been only one study that has examined whether social problem-solving training can improve psychological distress in individuals with intellectual disability and a psychiatric diagnosis. Three participants from a vocational community centre with mild intellectual disability, comorbid mental illness, and challenging behaviour, participated in 15 individually delivered sessions of social problem-solving training. Social problem-solving skill, behaviour, and psychological distress measures were used to assess outcome. All three participants showed improvement in social problem-solving skills, and two participants showed improvement in depression. Improvement was maintained at 4-week follow-up. The results provide preliminary evidence that social problem-solving training could be an effective intervention tool for the treatment of psychological distress in individuals with mild intellectual disability.
Extraction of galactoglucomannan from spruce wood with pressurised hot water
Authors: Song Tao , Pranovich Andrey , Sumerskiy Ivan , Holmbom Bjarne
Published: September 2008

Sapwood chips and ground wood of spruce have been extracted with pressurised pure water in an accelerated solvent extractor at temperatures from 100 to 180°C. The water extracts were freeze-dried, weighed, and analysed for carbohydrates by acid methanolysis followed by GC determination of monomeric sugars. Lignin was determined by measuring UV absorption and acetyl groups by HPLC after alkaline hydrolysis. Average molar masses of hemicelluloses in water extracts were determined by HPSEC-MALLS after filtration. Typically, approximately 70% of the total weighed extracts were composed of carbohydrates derived from hemicelluloses. Approximately 75% of the extracted carbohydrates were from galactoglucomannan (GGM). Other extracted substances were xylans, arabinogalactans, lignin and acetic acid. As much as 80–90% of the GGM in the wood, i.e., approximately 15% based on the original wood, was extracted from ground wood at 170–180°C for an extraction time of 1 h. The yields from chips were lower: approximately 60% from that of ground wood. The hemicelluloses were partly hydrolysed during the extractions at 160–180°C. Xylans and arabinogalactans were hydrolysed to a higher extent than GGM. Acetyl groups in GGM were also partly hydrolysed, which resulted in lower GGM solubility. A key factor for achieving a high yield of high-molar mass GGM is an optimised pH profile in order to minimise hydrolysis of acetyl groups and hydrolytic cleavage of GGM chains.
Simultaneous identification of independent parameters in elliptic equations — numerical studies
Authors: Hein T. , Meyer M.
Published: September 2008

In a model situation the problem of parallel identification of two parameters in an elliptic equation was examined. Here, coefficients were considered which are piecewise constant. In a numerical study we deal with various questions. The main focal point is on additional ill-posedness phenomena and numerical effects which are caused by the simultaneous determination of more than one coefficients in differential equations. Different known approaches for solving the underlying problem are investigated with respect to their efficiency and reliability. Moreover, the effect of noise in the given data is analyzed as well as the influence of the specific choice of the boundary conditions on the unique solvability of the identification problem.
Modulus of continuity of Nemytskii operators with application to the problem of option pricing
Authors: Krämer R. , Mathé P.
Published: September 2008

We introduce and analyze moduli of continuity for specific classes of Nemytskii operators on spaces of continuous functions, which are given by kernels, strictly monotone in their second argument. Such operators occur as non-linear (outer) mappings for certain problems of option pricing within the Black–Scholes model for time-dependent volatility. This nonlinear mapping can be seen to be continuous, however its convergence properties are poor. Our general results allow to bound the related moduli of continuity, both for the forward and backward non-linear mappings. In particular we explain the observed ill-conditioning of the nonlinear backward problem. The analysis uses some abstract local analysis of index functions, which may be of independent interest.
Regularization of linear ill-posed problems with noisy right hand side and noisy operator
Authors: Tautenhahn U.
Published: September 2008

For solving linear ill-posed problems regularization methods are required when the right hand side and the operator is with some noise. In the present paper regularized approximations are obtained by Tikhonov regularization, by regularized total least squares (RTLS) and by dual regularized total least squares (DRTLS). We discuss computational aspects and provide order optimal error bounds under two assumptions characterizing the smoothness of the unknown solution and the smoothing properties of the forward operator. The derived error bounds extend results from [S. Lu, S.V. Pereverzev, and U. Tautenhahn, Regularized total least squares: computational aspects and error bounds, Johann Radon Institute for Computational and Applied Mathematics, Report no. 2007-30, 2007.] where the above regularization methods are studied for finitely smoothing forward operators. We illustrate our theory by a special inverse heat conduction problem.
Focal Distance and the Pinhole Effect: Clues to the Mystery of the Apparent Size of Things
Authors: Roscoe Stanley N. , Corl Louis
Published: September 2008

This article traces an ergonomics research odyssey that spanned more than half a century. It started in 1950 with an airplane equipped with a periscope that projected a forward-looking view on a screen above the instrument panel and ended with a partial explanation for the illusion of a shrinking moon as it rises from the horizon. The connecting links along the way are not easy to follow and fly in the face of current theory, but the experimental findings tie the apparent size of visible objects to the focal distance of the eyes. The findings also have practical applications to the design of imaging displays and virtual reality systems.
The Pill: Time for a New Look
Authors: Spillinger Avishag , Auerbach-Shpak Yael , Bitterman Noemi
Published: September 2008

Based on the popularity of the birth control pill (“The Pill”), its economic importance, and its role as a daily component of the modern woman's environment and lifestyle, we decided to study pill usage habits and the cognitive and behavioral causes of noncompliance. Our findings led us to suggest design solutions to promote consistency of use and improve attitudes toward the pill. We conducted a field study of birth control pill dispensers, performed a task analysis of pill taking, and distributed a detailed questionnaire among 380 Israeli women. Our suggestions for improving compliance include incorporating memory aids, creating better packaging design, and reducing the medical stigma of the pill by positioning it as a designed, daily lifestyle item.
A case of X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets: complications and the therapeutic use of cinacalcet
Authors: Ræder Helge , Shaw Nick , Netelenbos Coen , Bjerknes Robert
Published: September 2008

In hypophosphatemic rickets, there are both inherited and acquired forms, where X-linked dominant hypophosphatemic rickets (XLH) is the most prevalent genetic form and caused by mutations in the phosphate-regulating endopeptidase (PHEX) gene. XLH is associated with growth retardation and bone deformities. The renal tubular cells have an important role in calcium and phosphate metabolism, where the 1α-hydroxylase enzyme metabolizes the conversion of 25 (OH)-vitamin D to potent 1,25 (OH)2-vitamin D, whereas the sodium–phosphate transporter controls tubular phosphate reabsorption. The pathophysiological defect in XLH is speculated to cause an increase in a circulating phosphate regulating hormone termed phosphatonin (fibroblast growth factor 23 is the primary phosphatonin candidate), which leads to inhibition of 1α-hydroxylase, and simultaneously to inhibition of the sodium–phosphate transporter domain NPT2c leading to parathyroid hormone-independent phosphaturia. Hence, current treatment of XLH is 1,25 (OH)2-vitamin D or the vitamin D analog alfacalcidol and elementary phosphorus. Unfortunately, patients with XLH may develop nephrocalcinosis, secondary or tertiary hyperparathyroidism, and in some situations also hypertension and cardiovascular abnormalities. We describe a patient with XLH caused by a novel missense mutation in the PHEX gene, who on treatment with alfacalcidol and oral phosphate had normal growth and minimal bone deformities, but who subsequently developed moderate nephrocalcinosis, significant hyperparathyroidism, hypercalcemia, renal failure, and hypertension. We also report the use of the calcimimetic drug cinacalcet in the successful treatment of hypercalcemia and hyperparathyroidism.
‘Do no harm’: management of craniopharyngioma
Authors: Gleeson Helena , Amin Rakesh , Maghnie Mohamad
Published: September 2008

Craniopharyngioma management is challenging. Although histology is benign, the tumour can be clinically aggressive with local invasion and frequent recurrences. Extensive morbidity may be present at diagnosis and furthermore, occurs as a consequence of neurosurgery and radiotherapy. Hypothalamic symptoms can have a devastating effect on quality of life and may reduce life expectancy. This case highlights both the challenge of managing hyperphagia and morbid obesity and the importance of initial treatment preserving existing hypothalamic function and the need to avoid tumour recurrence and further surgery.

A 11-year old boy presented with hydrocephalus secondary to a craniopharyngioma (he had visual failure and hypopituitarism but few hypothalamic symptoms). He underwent radical resection followed by radiotherapy. Following this treatment, he developed psychological and behavioural problems and hyperphagia. Weight gain in the first year (an increase from +1.4 to +3.7 s.d.) resulted in poor mobility and a fall which caused a slipped femoral epiphysis. In the next year, there was a 6-month period of unexpected weight loss (+4.2 to +3.8 s.d.) that culminated in emergency treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis secondary to severe insulin resistance. He developed a left hemiplegia, and a subsequent cerebral angiogram identified multiple stenoses of the Circle of Willis with a Moyamoya appearance secondary to radiotherapy. Weight gain has continued (+3.8 to +5.5 s.d.) so that bariatric surgery is a management option.
Three out of four: a case discussion on ambiguous genitalia
Authors: van Mil Edgar G A H , Hiort Olaf
Published: September 2008

Disorders of sex development (DSD) include a heterogeneous group of heritable disorders of sex determination and differentiation. This includes chromosomal as well as monogenic disorders, which inhibit or change primarily genetic or endocrine pathways of normal sex development. However, in many patients affected, no definitive cause for the disorder can be found. Therefore, the birth of a child with ambiguous genitalia still represents an enormous challenge. For the structuring of diagnostic procedures, decision making and also therapeutic interventions, a highly specialised team of physicians of different subspecialties and experts for psychosocial care is needed to counsel parents and patients accordingly. This article presents a case with 46,XX DSD and androgen excess. After making the diagnosis on clinical and biochemical grounds, the family refused further genetic testing. The outcome of subsequent pregnancies confirmed the working diagnosis of an autosomal form of 46,XX DSD. However, the family still refused prenatal testing and treatment on religious grounds. The case discussion further illuminates the possible influence of religion in prenatal testing and concludes with the approach to the parents for comprehensive counselling in decision making for their child.
β-Defensin 22 is a major component of the mouse sperm glycocalyx
Authors: Yudin Ashley I , Tollner Theodore L , Treece Cathy A , Kays Robert , Cherr Gary N , Overstreet James W , Bevins Charles L
Published: September 2008

Surface components of sperm isolated from the cauda epididymides were stabilized by whole sperm fixation for immunization of rabbits. The resulting immunoglobulins (Igs) recognized a single protein of 130 kDa (non-reduced) or 54–57 kDa (reduced) on western blots of cauda sperm. Igs recognized the same 54–57 kDa protein band on whole tissue blots of the corpus and cauda epididymidis and vas deferens. No immunoreactive bands were detected on blots of the prostate, seminal vesicles, testes, caput epididymis, or any of various non-reproductive tissues. Removal of sperm from the vas deferens prior to blotting eliminated the detection of the sperm antigen. Antibodies raised to synthetic peptides, identical in amino acid sequence to two unique spans of DEFB22, recognized the same 130/54–57 kDa antigen on western blots of both caudal sperm and the purified antigen isolated with the anti-sperm Ig. From indirect immunofluorescence, both the anti-sperm and anti-peptide Igs appeared to localize to the entire sperm surface, a pattern confirmed at the ultrastructural level. Real-time PCR identified the corpus epididymides as the major site of expression of DEFB22, with negligible expression in the testes, caput epididymides, and vas deferens. Immunostaining of epididymal sections showed DEFB22 being released into the lumen at the distal caput/proximal corpus, with sperm becoming intensely coated with DEFB22 as they reached the distal corpus. Most uterine sperm recovered from mice 4 h following copulation exhibited DEFB22 coating the entire sperm surface. By contrast, some sperm recovered from the oviduct and cumulus extracellular matrix showed loss of DEFB22 from the sperm head.
BAM Receptors Regulate Stem Cell Specification and Organ Development Through Complex Interactions With CLAVATA Signaling
Authors: DeYoung Brody J , Clark Steven E
Published: September 2008

The CLAVATA1 (CLV1) receptor kinase regulates stem cell specification at shoot and flower meristems of Arabidopsis. Most clv1 alleles are dominant negative, and clv1 null alleles are weak in phenotype, suggesting additional receptors functioning in parallel. We have identified two such parallel receptors, BAM1 and BAM2. We show that the weak nature of the phenotype of clv1 null alleles is dependent on BAM activity, with bam clv mutants exhibiting severe defects in stem cell specification. Furthermore, BAM activity in the meristem depends on CLV2, which is required in part for CLV1 function. In addition, clv1 mutants enhance many of the Bam− organ phenotypes, indicating that, contrary to current understanding, CLV1 function is not specific to the meristem. CLV3 encodes a small, secreted peptide that acts as the ligand for CLV1. Mutations in clv3 lead to increased stem cell accumulation. Surprisingly, bam1 and bam2 mutants suppress the phenotype of clv3 mutants. We speculate that in addition to redundant function in the meristem center, BAM1 and BAM2 act to sequester CLV3-like ligands in the meristem flanks.
22q11 Deletion Syndrome and Limb Anomalies: Report on Two Brazilian Patients
Authors: Mizue Kokitsu-Nakata Nancy , Leine Guion-Almeida Maria , Richieri-Costa Antonio
Published: September 2008

Objective:

To report on two Brazilian patients with chromosome 22q11 deletion who presented with velopharyngeal insufficiency, congenital heart anomalies, developmental delay, and limb anomalies. The pattern of limb anomalies in these patients, which range from ectrodactyly to limb synostosis, is very uncommon in 22q11 deletion syndrome.

Conclusion:

These patients widen the spectrum of clinical signs of the 22q11 deletion syndrome and alert researchers to conduct additional investigation in patients with limb involvement with velopharyngeal insufficiency and/or cardiac anomalies, along with developmental delay.
A Study of Speech, Language, Hearing, and Dentition in Children with Cleft Lip Only
Authors: Vallino Linda D. , Zuker Ronald , Napoli Joseph A.
Published: September 2008

Objective:

To examine the prevalence of speech, language, hearing, and dental problems in children with an initial diagnosis of isolated cleft lip only (CL), for which evidence-based practice can be developed.

Design:

Retrospective chart review of 95 patients with cleft lip (age range, 2.8 to 3.7 years; mean, 3.1 years).

Results:

Speech and language impairment was documented in 13% and 18% of the patients, respectively. Thirty-three percent of the children presented with middle ear effusion. Thirteen percent had abnormal hearing. With one exception, the type and degree of hearing loss was a mild conductive loss most often attributed to the presence of effusion. Dental and/or occlusal anomalies were documented in 62% of the patients. A supernumerary tooth was the most frequently occurring dental anomaly and crossbite the most frequently occurring occlusal anomaly. Two children had a submucous cleft palate. Resonance was abnormal in 5% of the children.

Conclusion:

Children with an initial diagnosis of CL need to be monitored by the interdisciplinary team for speech, language, ear disease, hearing, and dentition beginning in infancy and followed until all management needs are met.
Comparative Osseous and Soft Tissue Morphology following Cleft Lip Repair
Authors: Seidenstricker-Kink Lynn M. , Becker Devra B. , Govier Daniel P. , DeLeon Valerie B. , Lo Lun-Jou , Kane Alex A.
Published: September 2008

Objective:

To quantify comparative improvement between osseous and soft tissue asymmetry following primary lip repair.

Design:

Retrospective analysis of preoperative and postoperative computed tomography scans of infants with unilateral cleft lip and palate. Sixteen soft tissue landmarks were placed using an exploratory two-/three-dimensional image processing system and compared for asymmetry.

Patients:

Computed tomography scans were obtained on 26 patients (13 boys, 13 girls) of Chinese ethnicity (mean age  =  0.25 years) prior to Millard lip repair. Nineteen of these contributed to follow-up comparative studies prior to palatoplasty at a mean age of 0.92 years. There were 18 left-sided and eight right-sided clefts.

Main Outcome Measure:

Euclidean distance matrix asymmetry analysis was used to determine the amount of soft tissue asymmetry pre- and postlip repair. Similar analyses of the same scans were performed for 41 osseous landmarks.

Results:

Soft tissue landmarks had 36/39 (92%) preoperative and 13/39 (33%) postoperative asymmetric pairs. Osseous distances demonstrated 77/125 (61%) asymmetric pairs preoperatively and 60/125 (48%) postoperatively. Soft tissue and osseous distances of the lip region demonstrated 32% and 39% postoperative asymmetry, respectively. Soft tissue and osseous distances of the nasal region demonstrated 52% and 72% postoperative asymmetry, respectively. Soft tissue and osseous distances of the facial landmarks demonstrated 24% and 34% postoperative asymmetry, respectively.

Conclusions:

Primary lip repair appears to effect gains in symmetry in soft tissue and provides sufficient molding forces to cause correlating symmetry changes in underlying osseous structures.
Anatomical Basis for Apparent Subepithelial Cleft Lip: A Histological and Ultrasonographic Survey of the Orbicularis Oris Muscle
Authors: Rogers Carolyn R. , Weinberg Seth M. , Smith Timothy D. , Deleyiannis Frederic W. B. , Phil M. , Mooney Mark P. , Marazita Mary L.
Published: September 2008

Objective:

To determine if there is an anatomic basis for subepithelial orbicularis oris muscle defects by directly comparing ultrasonographic images of the upper lip with corresponding histological sections obtained from cadavers.

Methods:

Ultrasound was performed on the upper lips of previously frozen, unpreserved cadaver heads (n  =  32), followed by dissection and sectioning of the upper lips. The ultrasound sequences were scored by a panel of raters, classifying the orbicularis oris muscle as negative, positive, or unknown for the presence of an orbicularis oris discontinuity (subepithelial defect). Based on ultrasound, six lip specimens were chosen for histological sectioning, were stained with hematoxylin-eosin and Gomori trichrome stain, and were evaluated with light microscopy at low (8×) and intermediate (100×) magnification.

Results:

One cadaver was scored positive for an orbicularis oris muscle discontinuity based on ultrasound; whereas, the remaining cadavers were scored negative. Of the cadavers with negative ultrasound scores, two were noted to have orbicularis oris muscles with “irregular” features (e.g., excessive localized thinning or asymmetry). From histology, the area of discontinuity as visualized on the positively scored ultrasound was characterized by both disorganized orbicularis oris muscle fibers and excess connective tissue within the muscle belly. In contrast, the localized thinning observed on some of the negatively scored ultrasounds was not confirmed by histology.

Conclusions:

Abnormalities of the orbicularis oris muscle visualized by ultrasound have an anatomic basis as revealed through histology. Ultrasound is a useful tool for noninvasively identifying discontinuities of the orbicularis oris muscle.
DNA Methylation Changes during Cleft Palate Formation Induced by Retinoic Acid in Mice
Authors: Kuriyama Motone , Udagawa Akikazu , Yoshimoto Shinya , Ichinose Masaharu , Sato Koji , Yamazaki Koji , Matsuno Yoshiharu , Shiota Kunio , Mori Chisato
Published: September 2008

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to analyze epigenetic (specifically, DNA methylation) participation in the mechanisms of cleft palate only induced by maternal exposure to all-trans retinoic acid in mice.

Design:

Cleft palate only was induced in fetuses by maternal exposure to all-trans retinoic acid. Their secondary palates were excised for analysis. Cytosine extension assay and restriction landmark genomic scanning were performed to analyze DNA methylation status. The expression levels of the DNA methyltransferases were examined by real-time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Using cytosine extension assay, on gestation day 14.5, the status of DNA methylation within CpG islands and in global DNA was decreased significantly in all-trans retinoic acid–treated groups compared with the controls (p < .01 and p < .05). In the controls, the status within CpG islands on gestation day 14.5 was significantly increased compared with gestation days 13.5 and 18.5 (p < .01). Using real-time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction, there was no significant change in the expression of DNA methyltransferases, except on gestation day 18.5. Using restriction landmark genomic scanning on gestation day 18.5, five spots (0.49%) in the controls and one spot (0.1%) in all-trans retinoic acid–treated groups were specifically detected.

Conclusions:

These results indicate that changes in DNA methylation may play an important role in the manifestation of cleft palate only caused by environmental factors such as maternal exposure to all-trans retinoic acid.
Liverwort (Marchantia polymorpha) Response to Quinoclamine in a Pine Bark Substrate
Authors: Altland James E. , Wehtje Glenn , Mckee Michael L. , Gilliam Charles H.
Published: September 2008

Quinoclamine is an herbicide under development for control of liverwort, a weed common in nursery crops. With respect to liverwort control, quinoclamine has been considered to primarily have POST activity. However, some PRE activity has been reported. Growth media sorption studies with14C-quinoclamine indicate that only 0.64% of the quinoclamine amount that enters the media remains unadsorbed and thus available to be taken up by established plants or propagules. Computer modeling revealed that a large portion of the surface of the quinoclamine molecule is positively charged, which likely is the reason for its high adsorptivity. In a simulation of PRE activity, hydroponically grown liverwort and germinating gemmae were exposed to increasing quinoclamine concentrations. Phytotoxicity to both plants and gemmae was obtained with a minimal concentration of 4 to 6 mg L−1. Based upon the projected use rate, and assuming minimal vertical infiltration depth, the theoretical concentration of quinoclamine within the aqueous phase of a pine bark substrate would be approximately 8 mg L−1. In toto, results indicate that the projected use rate will result in sufficient quinoclamine in the aqueous phase of a pine bark substrate to provide PRE control of gemmae propagules as well as to contribute to the efficacy of POST applications to established liverwort.
Characterization of Selected Common Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album) Biotypes with Tolerance to Glyphosate
Authors: Westhoven Andrew M. , Kruger Greg R. , Gerber Corey K. , Stachler Jeff M. , Loux Mark M. , Johnson William G.
Published: September 2008

Biotypes of common lambsquarters with tolerance to glyphosate have been identified in a number of states, but little is known about their fitness characteristics. Field and greenhouse studies were conducted to characterize the response of selected glyphosate-tolerant common lambsquarters biotypes to glyphosate, and also their biological and reproductive characteristics. In a greenhouse dose-response study, GR50and GR90values for four tolerant biotypes ranged from 1.48 to 3.22 and 8.73 to 18.7 kg ae ha−1, respectively, compared to 0.57 and 2.39 kg ae ha−1, respectively, for a glyphosate-sensitive biotype. In a field dose-response study, the GR50and GR90values were 0.06 and 0.48 kg ae ha−1, respectively, for a tolerant biotype, compared to 0.036 and 0.19 kg ae ha−1, respectively, for the sensitive biotype. The growth rate, time until flowering, and seed production of eight tolerant and two sensitive biotypes was evaluated in a field study. The tolerant biotypes grew taller, amassed more leaf area and dry weight, and advanced through growth stages more rapidly than sensitive biotypes during the early portion of the growing season. The tolerant biotypes were taller than sensitive biotypes at 6 and 10 wk after transplanting, but had lower dry weight at maturity. Tolerant biotypes initiated flower primordia approximately 6 to 8 wk after transplanting, whereas sensitive biotypes required 12 wk. However, no apparent fitness penalties were observed in glyphosate-tolerant biotypes based on seed-production estimates.
Factors Affecting the Presence and Persistence of Plant DNA in the Soil Environment in Corn and Soybean Rotations
Authors: Gulden Robert H. , Lerat Sylvain , Blackshaw Robert E. , Powell Jeff R. , Levy-Booth David J. , Dunfield Kari E. , Trevors Jack T. , Pauls K. Peter , Klironomos John N. , Swanton Clarence J.
Published: September 2008

This study investigated factors that influence occurrence and persistence of plant DNA in the soil environment in three crop rotations. In each rotation, soil was sampled in May before planting, in July and August while crops were growing, and in October after harvest. Total DNA was recovered from soil samples taken at two different depths in the soil profile and quantified. Three target plant genes (cornCP4 epsps, corn10-kD Zein, and soybeanCP4 epsps) also were quantified in these DNA extracts using species-specific quantitative real-time PCR assays. In general, total plant DNA content in the soil environment was greatest when the crop was growing in the field and decreased rapidly after harvest. Nevertheless, low levels of target plant DNA were often still detectable the following spring. Age of rotation did not influence target DNA quantities found in the soil environment. Data were collected for a combination of 10 location-years, which allowed for estimation of the variance components for six factors including time of sampling, year, location, crop, sampling depth, and herbicide to total and target DNA content in the soil samples. Mean target recombinant DNA content in soil was influenced most strongly by time of sampling and year (85 and 6%, respectively), whereas total soil DNA content was less dynamic and was most strongly influenced by location and year (49 and 25%, respectively). Over the duration of this study, no accumulation of transgenic plant DNA in the soil environment was observed.
Managing Reed Canarygrass (Phalaris Arundinacea) to Aid in Revegetation of Riparian Buffers
Authors: Miller Timothy W. , Martin Laura Potash , Macconnell Craig B.
Published: September 2008

An experiment compared 2 yr of mowing, mulching, spot treatment with glyphosate, or no maintenance for reed canarygrass control and measured their effect on the establishment of red alder and arroyo willow. At one site, pretransplant control of reed canarygrass was poor, and mulching or no maintenance gave 9 and 14% control, respectively, at 5 mo after planting (MAP), but glyphosate spot treatment and mowing resulted in 89% and 72% control, respectively. The highest leafiness percentage by 24 MAP for arroyo willow and red alder at that site occurred in spot-treated plots (59 and 6%, respectively). Tree protection resulted in 30% more arroyo willow saplings with leaves at 24 MAP, at an average height of 68 cm at 17 MAP. Over the 2-yr trial at that site, mowing required far more time (30.6 min/plot) than either mulching or spot spraying (18.6 and 13.5 min/plot, respectively). At a second site, pretransplant weed control was excellent and maintenance programs controlled reed canarygrass from 88 to 98% by 5 MAP. Tree leafiness of red alder was improved 20% at 24 MAP by tree protection, with protected trees being 107 cm tall compared with 64 cm when left bare. Over the 2-yr trial at that site, mulching required 14.8 min/plot, compared with 12.9 and 7.6 min/plot for mowing and spot treatment. Annual spot treatment of reed canarygrass regrowth with glyphosate may be the most cost-effective means of achieving successful reestablishment of native broadleaf trees in northwestern riparian systems.
The Weed Tunnel: Building an Experimental Wind Tunnel
Authors: Baker Dirk V. , George K. Beck
Published: September 2008

Dispersal is a key component of plant population and community dynamics and the spread of weeds. Although many species of economic concern disperse via tumbleweed mechanisms, our ability to estimate relevant dispersal parameters can be hindered by the lack of a controlled environment that can be provided by a wind tunnel. Established wind tunnels are typically closed-circuit, clean systems and are therefore unsuitable for biological or ecological research. We designed and constructed a wind tunnel to estimate dispersal parameters for diffuse knapweed. Our design was a tunnel that utilizes the Venturi effect to obtain maximum flow velocity while pulling, rather than pushing, air through the test section. Flow velocity was continuously variable from 0 to 8 m/s, and the tunnel was equipped with instrumentation for measuring the force exerted on plants by wind. Our modular design provided a way to effectively estimate key parameters that govern the dispersal of tumbleweeds, and was readily constructed and stored in research facilities.
Transplanted Onion Response to Previously Applied Residual Herbicides
Authors: Grey Timothy L. , MacRae Andrew , Culpepper A. Stanley
Published: September 2008

Field trials were conducted in 2003/2004 and 2005/2006 at Reidsville, Georgia, to evaluate the effects of previously applied residual herbicides on onion growth and bulb production. Before transplanting onion, preplant applications of imazapic at 18 and 36 g ai/ha, diclosulam at 7 and 14 g ai/ha, pyrithiobac at 27 and 54 g ai/ha, trifloxysulfuron at 6.6 and 13.2 g ai/ha, diuron at 224 and 448 g ai/ha, and cloransulam at 22 g ai/ha were made. An untreated control was included for comparison. Trifloxysulfuron at 13.2 g/ha, diclosulam at 14 g/ha, pyrithiobac at 54 g/ha, and cloransulam at 22 g/ha injured onion 26, 73, 86, and 86% in 2003/2004, respectively, and 13 to 44% injury in 2005/2006. These same herbicides also reduced yield. Imazapic and diuron injured transplanted onion 6% during both seasons but did not reduce yield. This research suggests imazapic and diuron restrictions could possibly be reduced. However, the onion rotational restrictions for diclosulam, pyrithiobac, trifloxysulfuron, and cloransulam are accurate.
CD138/Syndecan-1 and SSEA-1 Mark Distinct Populations of Developing Ciliary Epithelium That Are Regulated Differentially by Wnt Signal
Authors: Koso Hideto , Iida Atsumi , Tabata Yoko , Baba Yukihiro , Satoh Shinya , Taketo Mark M. , Watanabe Sumiko
Published: September 2008

Ciliary epithelium (CE), which consists of nonpigmented and pigmented layers, develops from the optic vesicle. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying CE development have not been closely examined, in part because cell-surface markers suitable for specific labeling of subregions of the retina were unknown. Here, we identified CD138/syndecan-1 and stage specific embryonic antigen-1 (SSEA-1) CD15 as cell-surface antigens marking nonpigmented and pigmented CE, respectively. During retinal development, both CD138 and SSEA-1 were expressed in the early stage, and segregation of these markers in the tissue began at around embryonic day (E) 10. As a result, CD138-positive (CD138+) cells were found at the most distal tip of the retina, and SSEA-1+ cells were found in the periphery adjacent to the area of CD138 expression. In vitro characterization of isolated CD138+ or SSEA-1+ cell subpopulations revealed that CD138+ cells lose their retinal progenitor characteristics between E13 and E16, suggesting that they commit to becoming nonpigmented CE cells within this period. By in vivo mouse models, we found that stabilized β-catenin expanded the area of CD138+ nonpigmented CE and that elimination of β-catenin inhibited development of nonpigmented CE cells. These findings are the first to use cell-surface markers to ascertain the spatial and temporal transitions that occur in developing CE.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Herpes Simplex Virus-Mediated Expression of Pax3 and MyoD in Embryoid Bodies Results in Lineage-Related Alterations in Gene Expression Profiles
Authors: Craft April M. , Krisky David M. , Wechuck James B. , Lobenhofer Edward K. , Jiang Ying , Wolfe Darren P. , Glorioso Joseph C.
Published: September 2008

The ability of embryonic stem cells to develop into multiple cell lineages provides a powerful resource for tissue repair and regeneration. Gene transfer offers a means to dissect the complex events in lineage determination but is limited by current delivery systems. We designed a high-efficiency replication-defective herpes simplex virus gene transfer vector (JDββ) for robust and transient expression of the transcription factors Pax3 and MyoD, which are known to be involved in skeletal muscle differentiation. JDββ-mediated expression of each gene in day 4 embryoid bodies (early-stage mesoderm) resulted in the induction of unique alterations in gene expression profiles, including the upregulation of known target genes relevant to muscle and neural crest development, whereas a control enhanced green fluorescent protein expression vector was relatively inert. This vector delivery system holds great promise for the use of gene transfer to analyze the impact of specific genes on both regulatory genetic events and commitment of stem cells to particular lineages.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Health-Related Quality of Life Impact of Bevacizumab When Combined with Irinotecan, 5-Fluorouracil, and Leucovorin or 5-Fluorouracil and Leucovorin for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kabbinavar Fairooz F. , Wallace Joel F. , Holmgren Eric , Yi Jing , Cella David , Yost Kathleen J. , Hurwitz Herbert I.
Published: September 2008

Purpose.

To compare the time to deterioration in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with previously untreated metastatic colorectal cancer receiving a 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemotherapy regimen with or without the addition of bevacizumab (BV) in two randomized, placebo-controlled studies.

Patients and Methods.

Prespecified HRQoL endpoints in the phase II (Study 2192) and phase III (Study 2107) studies were time to deterioration in HRQoL, measured by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Colorectal (FACT-C) Colorectal Cancer Subscale (CCS), Trial Outcome Index (TOI-C), and FACT-C total score. Time to deterioration in HRQoL was evaluated for patients with baseline and postbaseline assessments, using the stratified log-rank test.

Results.

In the pivotal phase III trial, HRQoL baseline and postbaseline CCS scores were available for 127 patients receiving irinotecan, 5-FU, and leucovorin (LV) (IFL) and 122 patients receiving IFL plus BV. The time to deterioration in HRQoL did not differ significantly between treatment groups as measured by the CCS, TOI-C, or FACT-C total score. In the phase II study, baseline and postbaseline CCS scores were available for 77 and 89 patients receiving 5-FU and LV and 5-FU and LV plus BV, respectively. In that study, the time to deterioration in HRQoL was similar between groups as measured by the CCS and TOI-C scores, but was significantly longer in the 5-FU and LV plus BV arm than in the 5-FU and LV plus placebo arm for the FACT-C total score.

Conclusions.

When added to 5-FU chemotherapy, BV significantly prolonged overall survival and progression-free survival without compromising HRQoL.
Neoplastic Meningitis
Authors: Chamberlain Marc C.
Published: September 2008

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader should be able to: Describe the epidemiology of leptomeningeal metastasis.Participate in the diagnosis of leptomeningeal metastasis.Engage in the treatment of leptomeningeal metastasis.

CME This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com

Background.

Neoplastic meningitis (NM) is a common problem in neuro-oncology, occurring in approximately 5% of all patients with cancer.

Methods.

Notwithstanding frequent focal signs and symptoms, NM is a disease affecting the entire neuraxis, and therefore staging and treatment need encompass all cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) compartments.

Results.

Central nervous system staging of NM includes contrast-enhanced cranial computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging (MR-Gd), contrast-enhanced spine magnetic resonance imaging or computerized tomographic myelography and radionuclide CSF flow study. Treatment of NM incorporates involved-field radiotherapy of bulky or symptomatic disease sites and intra-CSF drug therapy. The inclusion of concomitant systemic therapy may benefit patients with NM and may obviate the need for intra-CSF chemotherapy. At present, intra-CSF drug therapy is confined to three chemotherapeutic agents (i.e., methotrexate, cytosine, arabinoside, and thio-TEPA) administered by a variety of schedules either by intralumbar or intraventricular drug delivery.

Conclusions.

Although treatment of NM is palliative with an expected median patient survival of 2 to 6 months, it often affords stabilization and protection from further neurologic deterioration in patients with NM.
Spatial variation in physio-chemistry in a small river estuary
Authors: Chanson H. , Ramsay I.
Published: September 2008

Understanding of riverine and estuarine mixing processes remains limited, and predictions are highly sensitive to specific features of natural systems. One reason for this is the very complex variations of hydrodynamic and physio-chemical properties with the tidal phase. This study presents the results of two field works during which a range of flow and chemical parameters were recorded simultaneously at several locations along a small sub-tropical estuary. The studies were conducted in contrasting (wet and dry) conditions. Field measurements indicated that the hydrodynamics and water conductivity were dominated by tidal forcing and, to a lesser extent, by freshwater inputs. There were generally significantly greater differences between longitudinal sites than between vertical depths, although some marked differences were observed between the upper and lower estuarine zones. The comparative results between wet and dry field studies illustrated some marked stratification in wet weather along the whole of the estuary, implying that the surface samples were not representative of the average water column properties. Overall, the complexity of the hydrodynamics and water quality has some impact on water quality modelling of the system.
Effects of Temperatures on Rheological Behavior of Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus sp.) Juice
Authors: Chuah Teong Guan , Ling Hwei Lin , Chin Nyuk Ling , Choong Thomas S.Y. , A. Fakhru'l-Razi
Published: September 2008

In Malaysia, the dragon fruit is widely commercialized. It is extensively used in the food industry. Their use as constituents of juices, jellies, marmalades, jams, wine, beverages, etc. generates a consumer market with an increasing demand. This work aims to obtain rheological data of dragon fruit juice which is essential in optimizing equipment design, process control, and consumer acceptability of a product. In the present study, dragon fruit juice with concentrates of (10 and 12oBrix) was prepared. The rheological behavior of these concentrates was studied in the temperature range of 5, 10, 15, and 40oC. Dragon fruit juice was found to exhibit non-Newtonian, pseudoplastic behavior. Samples on both concentrations were adequately described by the rheological model. The effect of temperature on dragon fruit juice is best described by the applicability of the Arrhenius model related to apparent viscosity, ?a.
Prediction of Physicochemical Properties of Pummelo Juice Concentrates as a Function of Temperature and Concentration
Authors: Chin Nyuk L , Chan Suit M , Yusof Yus Aniza , Chuah Teong Guan , Talib Rosnita A
Published: September 2008

The properties of pummelo juice were studied by measuring its chemical and physical composition. Pummelo fruit juice was freeze-concentrated to a concentration varying from 10 to 50 °Brix for investigation at temperature ranging from 6 to 75 °C. The fresh pummelo juice compositions in terms of moisture content, ash, fat, protein, fibre, carbohydrates, and vitamin C are comparable to existing literature. The water activity, pH and acidity were predictable linearly by its concentration measured in °Brix. The density of pummelo juice was well-predicted using linear regressions with a single parameter (i.e., concentration), giving R2>0.983 and with a temperature at R2>0.921. The density of pummelo juice showed stronger dependence on its concentration than on the temperature. With multiple linear regressions, the density could be predicted by the equation, with an R2 of 0.9877. As such, these predictions are useful in the juice processing industry as densities variant by concentration and temperature are important during the pasteurization process.
Correlation of Activity Coefficients in Aqueous Solutions of Ammonium Salts Using Local Composition Models and Stochastic Optimization Methods
Authors: Jaime-Leal José Enrique , Bonilla-Petriciolet Adrián
Published: September 2008

In this study, several local composition models and stochastic optimization methods have been used and compared in data fitting of activity coefficients in aqueous electrolytes. We have utilized the electrolyte-NRTL model of Chen et al. and the modified Wilson models proposed by Xu and Macedo, and Zhao et al. to fit the activity coefficients of several quaternary ammonium salts in water at 25°C. These electrolytes have interesting properties for their application as ionic liquids. However, the modeling of their thermodynamic behavior using local composition models is a global optimization problem. In this study, several stochastic optimization methods have been used to solve this optimization problem and their numerical performances have been compared. Specifically, we have tested the classical Simulated Annealing and the hybrid methods: Direct Search Simulated Annealing, Simplex Coding Genetic Algorithm, Simulated Annealing Heuristic Pattern Search, and Directed Tabu Search. Our results show that Simulated Annealing is a suitable tool for data fitting of the activity coefficients of aqueous electrolytes. Finally, the tested models can satisfactorily correlate the mean activity coefficients of electrolytes treated in this study, and are suitable for process design.
Novel Macrokinetic Model for Industrial Hydrogenation Purifying of Terephthalic Acid
Authors: Hu Chunping , Yan Xuefeng
Published: September 2008

A novel macrokinetic model is proposed for the hydrogenation purifying of terephthalic acid (HPTA), which is catalyzed by Pd/C in an industrial trickle-bed reactor (TBR). First, the reaction orders of HPTA are estimated by the mass transfer-free experiment data in the laboratory stirred batch reactor (SBR). The hydrogenation reaction kinetics is assumed to be first-order with respect to 4-carboxybenzaldehyde (4-CBA), which is the most important contamination of terephthalic acid and hydrogenated to produce p-toluic acid. Second, due to the fact that the reaction factors of HPTA have a high-nonlinear and complex effect on the reaction rate constant of HPTA, the nonlinear partial least squares regression method was used to model the influence of the reaction factors on the rate constant based on the transfer-free experiment data of HPTA in the laboratory SBR. Thus, the macrokinetic model of HPTA in the laboratory SBR is developed. Third, to indicate the difference between HPTA in the industrial TBR and that in the laboratory SBR, the correction coefficients were proposed and introduced into the obtained rate constant model to describe the influence of the reaction factors on HPTA in the industrial TBR. Based on the macrokinetic model with the unknown correction coefficients and the data obtained in the industrial TBR, differential evolution (DE) algorithm was used to obtain the optimum correction coefficients according to the fitting performance of the macrokinetic model, and the macrokinetic model for HPTA in the industrial TBR was developed. Further, the reliability of the model was investigated and satisfactory results were obtained.
THE EFFECT OF EMOTIONAL STATE ON WAITING IN DECISION MAKING
Authors: Sun Ya-Chung , Wu Shih-Chia
Published: September 2008

Previous research has indicated that many people often take extra time to consider existing information. They do so possibly in order to acquire more information, or even to “wait” in the hope that new information may be forthcoming before they make a decision. However,
recent studies have provided scant information about how waiting affects a person's choice given different emotional states. In this paper, an experimental study was carried out to demonstrate and explain the relationship between waiting and a person's choice. Results show that when
conditions are certain, more people choose to wait – when they are in a positive emotional state – in order to maintain their current mood. However, under either certain or uncertain conditions, when people are in a negative emotional state they prefer to take immediate action
rather than wait. The causes and implications of this phenomenon are discussed in relation to the existing literature on emotions and choice.