bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Housing and management of broiler breeders and turkey breeders.
Authors: Jong I. C. de , Swalander M.
Published: March 2012

This chapter describes the housing and management of broiler breeders and turkey breeders in Europe. The majority of broiler breeders in Europe are the standard, fast growing genotype, but 18-20% of the broiler breeders are dwarf parental females that produce standard and alternative (medium or slow growing) broilers. Broiler breeder housing systems are very similar in rearing and production; a low percentage of birds are in cages, and alternative systems are not used. Broiler breeders are generally housed in climate-controlled houses with litter floors during the rearing period and partially slatted floors during the production period. Males and females are reared separately until 18-21 weeks of age and then transferred to the production farm where they are housed together until 60-65 weeks of age. The restricted feeding regime during rearing is generally seen as one of the major welfare issues in broiler breeders as it leads to chronic hunger and frustration of the feeding motivation. The majority (>95%) of turkey breeders in Europe are of either heavy or heavy medium genotype with white plumage. The remainder of the turkey market consists of small strain white or coloured birds for whole bird seasonal production. Both conventional large strain turkeys and small strain traditional turkeys are used for outdoor/alternative production systems. Rearing of breeding turkeys is floor based on deep litter, and predominantly in environmentally controlled housing. Males and females are reared separately until 29 weeks of age and then transferred to laying facilities. Male parent stock is selected at 16-18 weeks paying attention to health, fitness, plumage and conformation. Laying facilities are either open-sided houses or controlled environment for breeder females, and typically controlled environment housing for breeder males. Breeding turkeys are kept in production until 56-60 weeks of age (i.e. 24-28 weeks lay). Quantitative feed restriction is applied in breeder males from selection age (16-18 weeks) to end of production, to maximize fitness and reproduction. Breeder females are fed unrestricted throughout rearing but on a lower-protein diet to avoid fatness of the hens. Injurious pecking is generally seen as the most important welfare issue in flocks where beak trimming is not applied.
Alternative systems for meat chickens and turkeys: production, health and welfare.
Authors: Jones T. A. , Berk J.
Published: March 2012

Legislative and assurance scheme requirements for standard and alternative indoor and outdoor broiler and turkey production systems are described. Generally, health and welfare are protected to various extents by a series of input requirements, largely related to stocking density, light, environmental control parameters, environmental enrichment, mutilations and growth rate. Outcome measures (usually related to physical well-being) highlight flocks that perform poorly, and success depends on the effectiveness of the input and output measures, the reporting structure and any remedial action taken. Alternative systems represent a low market share of broiler and turkey production in the European Union (approximately 10 and 30%, respectively) and generally production costs more. Free range and organic systems are largely considered to have the potential to provide good living conditions and reduce environmental pollution. However, concerns have been raised over bird health (Campylobacter infection), welfare (higher foot lesions and breast blisters, lack of outdoor ranging), product quality and consumers' willingness to pay. Research shows that breed suitability is one of the largest factors in determining welfare in alternative systems, particularly for broiler chickens. More robust, hardy breeds with lower growth rates should be used; these birds are better suited to a wide range of environmental parameters and diets with lower energy density. The quality of the diet (particularly in relation to indispensable amino acids and protein balance) and the free range environment (particularly in relation to the provision of natural cover outdoors) are also highly important for both broilers and turkeys. The meat from slow growth broiler breeds is more suited to the whole bird market (as opposed to portioned or further processed) and generally contains less fat and more protein than from conventional breeds. Consumers tend to be unable to differentiate chicken products from alternative systems by odour and taste, but can differentiate by appearance and texture.
Geometrical features in longitudinal sputtering hollow cathode discharges for laser applications
Authors: Mihailova D , Dijk J van , Hagelaar G J M , Karatodorov S , Zahariev P , Grozeva M , van der Mullen J J A M
Published: March 2012

Longitudinal sputtering hollow cathode discharge (HCD) used as active medium for lasing is studied by means of numerical modelling. Due to the longitudinal non-uniformities of the discharge, the laser operation could be strongly affected. The non-uniformity of the discharge is mainly influenced by the dimensions of the hollow cathode, in particular by the aspect ratio length/radius. To study the geometrical features, a simulation model for HCDs has been constructed using the Plasimo modelling platform. The model allows in-depth studies of the plasma mechanisms and enables finding the optimum under the working conditions of the HCDs. The model is validated by comparing the results with the experimental observations. The spatial distribution of the plasma density and potential as well as an in-depth discussion of the results and the trends revealed by the model are presented. The proper understanding of the essential geometrical features allowed defining the optimal aspect ratio length/diameter for stable and uniform discharge with high excitation efficiency.
A Versatile Protocol for mRNA Electroporation of Xenopus laevis Embryos
Authors: Chernet Brook T. , Levin Michael
Published: April 2012

Xenopus laevis is an ideal model system for investigating the mechanisms of pattern formation. The ability to express exogenous mRNA or introduce morpholinos into cleavage-stage Xenopus embryos has allowed gain- and loss-of-function experiments that reveal molecular-genetic control of development and regeneration. However, injection of mRNAs into cleavage-stage embryos provides limited spatio-temporal control: It is difficult to limit targeting to small regions (e.g., inducing foci of expression) and the fate map does not facilitate targeting some tissues, such as those of the tail. Likewise, early injection can result in unwanted developmental defects because mRNA can be translated long before the desired time point. These are especially important limitations when studying developmental and regenerative processes during the gastrula to tailbud stages. Although transgenic techniques allow precise control over spatio-temporal expression of genes when the appropriate promoter is available, the process of creating stable transgenic animals is time-consuming. Electroporation provides an alternative method for delivering mRNA and other nucleic acids, enabling the targeting of single cells or groups of cells at any stage of development. This protocol describes detailed electroporation parameters for the transfection of mRNA into a wide range of tissues in embryos at gastrula to tailbud stages, with high efficiency and expression as early as 4 h post electroporation.
Optimization of the thickness of a ZnS/6LiF scintillator for a high-resolution detector installed on a focusing small-angle neutron scattering spectrometer (SANS-U)
Authors: Iwase Hiroki , Katagiri Masaki , Shibayama Mitsuhiro
Published: March 2012

This study involves the upgrade of a high-resolution position-sensitive detector (HR-PSD) installed on the small-angle neutron scattering spectrometer (SANS-U) at the Japan Atomic Energy Agency. By using both neutron lenses and the HR-PSD, the accessible low-Qlimit can be extended to the order of 10−4 Å−1[Qis the magnitude of the scattering vector defined byQ= (4π/λ)sinθ, where λ and 2θ are the wavelength and the scattering angle, respectively]. The HR-PSD consists of a cross-wired position-sensitive photomultiplier tube (PSPMT) and a commercial ZnS/6LiF scintillator. To improve the experimental efficiency of focusing small-angle neutron scattering (FSANS) experiments, a high-performance ZnS/6LiF scintillator developed at the Japan Atomic Energy Agency has been utilized. For the PSPMT and data-acquisition system installed on SANS-U, the thickness of the ZnS/6LiF scintillator was optimized by measuring the thickness dependence of the pulse-height spectra. Under the experimental conditions of SANS-U, the optimum thickness of the ZnS/6LiF scintillator (ZnS:6LiF = 2:1) was determined to be 0.433 mm by measuring the total counts and peak positions of the pulse-height spectra. Installation of the optimized ZnS/6LiF scintillator improved detection efficiency by 1.39 times over that of a commercial scintillator at the same level of background counts andQresolution in FSANS experiments.
Retraction of articles
Authors: IUCr Editorial Office
Published: March 2012

This article reports the retraction of articles published inActa Crystallographica Section Ebetween 2007 and 2009.
Diaquabis(pyrazine-2-carboxamide-κ2N1,O)cobalt(II) dinitrate
Authors: Pannu Ajay Pal Singh , Lee Seona , Lee Yongjae
Published: March 2012

The asymmetric unit of the title complex, [Co(C5H5N3O)2(H2O)2](NO3)2, contains one half of a CoIIcationic unit and a nitrate anion. The entire [Co(C5H5N3O)2(H2O)2]2+cationic unit is completed by the application of inversion symmetry at the CoIIsite, generating a six-coordinate distorted octahedral environment for the metal ion. The chelating pyrazine-2-carboxamide molecules are bound to cobaltviaN and O atoms, forming a square plane, while the remaining twotranspositions in the octahedron are occupied by two coordinated water molecules.
(E)-1-{4-[Bis(4-methoxyphenyl)methyl]piperazin-1-yl}-3-(4-ethoxy-3-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one
Authors: Zhong Yan , Zhang Xiao-Ping , Wu Bin
Published: March 2012

In the molecule of the title compound, C31H36N2O5, the piperazine ring displays a chair conformation. The dihedral angle between the benzene rings of the bis(4-methoxyphenyl)methyl group is 83.42 (15)°. In the crystal, centrosymmetrically related molecules are linked through pairs of C—H...O hydrogen bonds into dimers, generating anR22(10) ring motif. The dimers are further connected into chains parallel to [2-10] by C—H...O hydrogen bonds involving the methoxy groups.
2,7-Bis(2-nitrophenyl)-9-octyl-9H-carbazole
Authors: Wrobel Norma , Schollmeyer Dieter , Detert Heiner
Published: March 2012

The title compound, C32H31N3O4, was obtained in a Suzuki coupling of carbazole diboronic acid and bromonitrobenzene. In the crystal, the molecule adopts a non-symmetric conformation. The carbazole ring system is approximately planar [maximum deviation from the least-squares plane = 0.039 (2) Å]. The planes of the carbazole unit and the benzene rings subtend dihedral angles of 48.42 (7) and 41.81 (6)°. The dihedral angles between the planes of the nitrophenyl rings and the nitro groups are 44.34 (19) and 61.64 (15)°. The crystal is built from two strands of parallel molecules with interdigitated octyl chains. These strands are symmetry related by a twofold screw axis.
4-[(2′-Cyanobiphenyl-4-yl)methyl]morpholin-4-ium perchlorate
Authors: Ou-Yang Hua-Yong
Published: March 2012

In the title salt, C18H19N2O+·ClO4−, the morpholinium ring adopts a chair conformation, while the two benzene rings make a dihedral angle of 62.65 (17)°. Intermolecular N—H...N hydrogen bonds and weak C—H...O interactions occur in the crystal structure.
3,6-Diiodo-9H-carbazole
Authors: Xie Yu-Zhong , Jin Jing-Yi , Jin Guang-De
Published: March 2012

In the title compound, C12H7I2N, the tricyclic aromatic ring system is essentially planar, with an r.m.s. deviation of 0.0272 Å. The two I atoms are marginally out of plane, with the C—I bonds angled at 3.9 (2) and 1.1 (2)° with respect to the planes of their respective benzene rings, above and below the plane of the carbazole ring system. No classical hydrogen bonds are observed in the crystal structure.
Aqua(2,2′-bipyridine-κ2N,N′){(E)-[(5-chloro-2-oxidobenzylidene)amino-κ2N,O]methanesulfonato-κO}zinc
Authors: Deng Yi-Fang , Nie Xue , Zhang Chun-Hua
Published: March 2012

In the title compound, [Zn(C8H6ClNO4S)(C10H8N2)(H2O)], the ZnIIatom is six-coordinated by two O atoms and one N atom from a tridentate Schiff base ligand and two N atoms from a chelating 2,2′-bipyridine ligand and one water molecule, forming a slightly distorted octahedral geometry. In the crystal, O—H...O hydrogen bonds link pairs of complex molecules into dimers. An intramolecular O—H...O hydrogen bond is also present.
(2S,4S)-2-[(S,E)-2-Bromo-1-nitromethyl-3-phenylallyl]-4-methylcyclohexanone
Authors: Zhao Long , Wu Chao , Weng Wen-Zeng , Yan Chu-Xia , Xia Ai-Bao
Published: March 2012

The crystal structure of the title compoud, C17H20BrNO3, contains three chiral centers, which all exhibit anSconfiguration. The C=C double bond has anEconformation. The cyclohexane ring is in a chair conformation. In the crystal, molecules are linked by weak N—O...Br interactions [O...Br = 3.136 (4) Å].
5-({3-[(5-Amino-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)sulfanylmethyl]benzyl}sulfanyl)-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine
Authors: Kang Sung Kwon , Cho Nam Sook , Jang Siyoung
Published: March 2012

In the title compound, C12H12N6S4, the two terminal thiadiazole rings are twisted with respect to the central benzene ring, making dihedral angles of 54.28 (4) and 76.56 (3)°. The dihedral angle between the two thiadiazole rings is 27.77 (4)°. Intermolecular N—H...N hydrogen bonds stabilize the crystal packing, linking the molecules into a tape along thebaxis.
5-Nitro-1-(prop-2-yn-1-yl)-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,3-benzodiazol-2-one
Authors: Ouzidan Younes , Kandri Rodi Youssef , Zouihri Hafid , Essassi El Mokhtar , Ng Seik Weng
Published: March 2012

In the two independent molecules of the title compound, C10H7N3O3, the nitro substitutent is twisted slightly with respect to the benzodiazol fused-ring system [dihedral angles = 4.9 (3) and 8.5 (1)°]. The two independent molecules are disposed about a pseudo inversion center and are held together by N—H...O hydrogen bonds. The supramolecular dimer is essentially planar [dihedral angle between the fused rings = 2.0 (1)°]. Adjacent dimers are linked by acetylene–nitro C—H...O interactions, generating a ribbon motif along (110).
cis-(Acetato-κ2O,O′)(5,5,7,12,12,14-hexamethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane-κ4N,N′,N′′,N′′′)nickel(II) perchlorate monohydrate
Authors: Roy Tapashi G. , Palit Debashis , Nath Babul Chandra , Ng Seik Weng , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: March 2012

The complete cation in the title hydrated molecular salt, [Ni(CH3CO2)(C16H36N4)]ClO4·H2O, is generated by the application of crystallographic twofold symmetry; the perchlorate anion and water molecule are each disordered around a twofold axis. The NiIIatom exists within acis-N4O2donor set based on a strongly distorted octahedron and defined by the four N atoms of the macrocyclic ligand and two O atoms of a symmetrically coordinating acetate ligand. In the crystal, hydrogen bonding (water–acetate/perchlorate O—H...O and amine–perchlorate N—H...O) leads to layers in theabplane. The layers stack along thecaxis, being connected by C—H...O(water) interactions. The crystal studied was found to be a non-merohedral twin; the minor component refined to 15.9 (6)%.
Staying in nursing: what factors determine whether nurses intend to remain employed?
Authors: Carter Matthew R. , Tourangeau Ann E.
Published: March 2012

carter m.r. & tourangeau a.e. (2012) Staying in nursing: what factors determine whether nurses intend to remain employed?. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(7), 1589–1600.

Aim.  To test a model of eight thematic determinants of whether nurses intend to remain in nursing roles.

Background.  Despite the dramatic increase in the supply of nurses in England over the past decade, a combination of the economic downturn, funding constraints and more generally an ageing nursing population means that healthcare organizations are likely to encounter long‐term problems in the recruitment and retention of nursing staff.

Design.  Survey.

Method.  Data were collected from a large staff survey conducted in the National Health Service in England between September–December 2009. A multi‐level model was tested using MPlus statistical software on a sub‐sample of 16,707 nurses drawn from 167 healthcare organizations.

Results.  Findings were generally supportive of the proposed model. Nurses who reported being psychologically engaged with their jobs reported a lower intention to leave their current job. The perceived availability of developmental opportunities, being able to achieve a good work‐life balance and whether nurses’ encountered work pressures were also influencing factors on their turnover intentions. However, relationships formed with colleagues and patients displayed comparatively small relationships with turnover intentions.

Conclusion.  The focus at the local level needs to be on promoting employee engagement by equipping staff with the resources (physical and monetary) and control to enable them to perform their tasks to standards they aspire to and creating a work environment where staff are fully involved in the wider running of their organizations, communicating to staff that patient care is important and the top priority of the organization.
Fathers’ emotional involvement with the neonate: impact of the umbilical cord cutting experience
Authors: Brandão Sónia , Figueiredo Bárbara
Published: March 2012

Aims.  This paper is a report on a study analysing the effect of the umbilical cord cutting experience on fathers’ emotional involvement with their infants.

Background.  Participation in childbirth offers an opportunity for father and mother to share the childbirth experience, so it is vital that midwives improve the fathers’ participation in this event.

Design.  A quasi‐experimental study with a quantitative methodology was implemented.

Methods.  One hundred and five fathers were recruited as part of a convenience sample in a Maternity Public Hospital in a Metropolitan City in Portugal, between January and May of 2008. The Bonding Scale, the Portuguese version of the ‘Mother‐to‐Infant Bonding Scale’ was used to evaluate the fathers’ emotional involvement with the neonate at different moments: before childbirth, first day after childbirth and first month after childbirth. After childbirth, the fathers were divided into three separate groups depending on their umbilical cord cutting experience.

Results.  The results demonstrate that the emotional involvement between father and child tends to increase during the first days after childbirth and to decrease when evaluated 1 month after birth, for fathers who did not cut the umbilical cord. However, fathers who cut the umbilical cord demonstrate an improvement in emotional involvement 1 month later.

Conclusion.  Results suggest that the umbilical cord cutting experience benefits the father’s emotional involvement with the neonate, supporting the benefits of his participation and empowerment in childbirth.
Social exclusion and people with intellectual disabilities: a rural–urban comparison
Authors: Nicholson L. , Cooper S.‐A.
Published: March 2012

Background  Research suggests that social exclusion is a problem both for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) and for people living in rural areas. This may give rise to a double disadvantage for people with ID living in rural areas. Conversely, aspects of rural life such as community spirit and social support may protect against social exclusion in this population. This study was designed to compare a number of measures of social exclusion in adults with ID living in rural and urban areas, with the aim of identifying whether a double disadvantage exists.

Method  Adults with ID were recruited from a rural and an urban area in Scotland. Participants participated in a face‐to‐face interview and their medical notes were accessed. Social exclusion was investigated using a number of measures comprising: daytime opportunities and physical access to community facilities (using part of the British Institute of Learning Disabilities questionnaire), recent contact with others and the quality of personal relationships (using a modified Interview Measure of Social Relationships questionnaire) and area deprivation by postcode (using the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation). The data were analysed using a series of binary logistic regression models that adjusted for variables including age, gender, level of ID, mental illhealth and common physical co‐morbidities.

Results  A representative sample of adults with ID from rural (n = 39) and urban (n = 633) areas participated. Participants from rural areas were significantly more likely to have any regular daytime opportunity [odds ratio (OR) = 10.8, 95% CI = 2.3–51.5] including employment (OR = 22.1, 95% CI = 5.7–85.5) and attending resource centres (OR = 6.7, 95% CI = 2.6–17.2) than were participants from urban areas. They were also more likely to have been on holiday (OR = 17.8, 95% CI = 4.9–60.1); however, were less likely to use community facilities on a regular basis. Participants from urban and rural areas had a similar number of contacts with other people in a wide range of situations, but the quality of relationships may have been less close in rural areas. Finally, participants lived in significantly less deprived areas when in rural compared with urban areas (Mann–Whitney U = 7826, Z = −3.675, P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions  These results suggest that adults with ID living in rural areas have better opportunities and live in less deprived areas than adults with ID living in urban areas. However, they may not hold such positive or close relationships, and this may be important when considering the subjective experience of social exclusion.
In‐car countermeasures open window and music revisited on the real road: popular but hardly effective against driver sleepiness
Authors: SCHWARZ JOHANNA F. A. , INGRE MICHAEL , FORS CARINA , ANUND ANNA , KECKLUND GÖRAN , TAILLARD JACQUES , PHILIP PIERRE , ÅKERSTEDT TORBJÖRN
Published: March 2012

This study investigated the effects of two very commonly used countermeasures against driver sleepiness, opening the window and listening to music, on subjective and physiological sleepiness measures during real road driving. In total, 24 individuals participated in the study. Sixteen participants received intermittent 10‐min intervals of: (i) open window (2 cm opened); and (ii) listening to music, during both day and night driving on an open motorway. Both subjective sleepiness and physiological sleepiness (blink duration) was estimated to be significantly reduced when subjects listened to music, but the effect was only minor compared with the pronounced effects of night driving and driving duration. Open window had no attenuating effect on either sleepiness measure. No significant long‐term effects beyond the actual countermeasure application intervals occurred, as shown by comparison to the control group (n = 8). Thus, despite their popularity, opening the window and listening to music cannot be recommended as sole countermeasures against driver sleepiness.
Increased Th17 cells contribute to disease progression in patients with HBV‐associated liver cirrhosis
Authors: Sun H. Q. , Zhang J. Y. , Zhang H. , Zou Z. S. , Wang F. S. , Jia J. H.
Published: March 2012

Summary.  T helper (Th) 17 cells have been demonstrated to participate in the pathogenesis of HBV‐associated liver damage. However, little is known regarding the immunopathogenic role of liver fibrosis in patients with HBV‐associated liver cirrhosis. The aims of this study were to evaluate whether Th17 cells are related to disease progression in patients and to explore the possible mechanisms. The frequencies of circulating Th17 cells were analysed in 78 patients with hepatitis B and cirrhosis (Child A: 34; Child B: 22; Child C 22) and matched controls. Liver samples were collected from 13 patients with HBV‐associated cirrhosis, 23 patients with chronic hepatitis B and 12 healthy controls for immunohistochemical analysis. IL‐17 receptor expression was studied on liver biopsies and in human hepatic stellate cells as well as their response to recombinant IL‐17 by flow cytometry. Patients with hepatitis B‐associated cirrhosis with more severe disease displayed significant increases in peripheral numbers of Th17 cells as well as in IL‐17 plasma levels. The increased intrahepatic IL‐17+ cells correlated positively with fibrotic staging scores and clinical progression from CHB to cirrhosis. Moreover, many IL‐17+ cells were located in fibrotic areas in the liver of patients with cirrhosis. In vitro, IL‐17 together with IL‐17‐activated monocytes, could promote the activation of stellate cells, which, in turn, aggravated liver fibrosis and the inflammatory response. In summary, increased peripheral and intrahepatic Th17 cells are enriched in patients with hepatitis B and cirrhosis and contribute further to the severity of disease progression through induction of stellate cell activation.
Effects of Incubation Temperature and Semen Pooling on the Viability of Fresh, Chilled and Freeze‐Thawed Canine Semen Samples
Authors: Batista M , Santana M , Alamo D , González F , Niño T , Cabrera F , Gracia A
Published: March 2012

Contents

This study assessed the effects of different incubation temperatures on semen viability and the influence of pooling on semen longevity. In experiment 1, semen samples were collected from five dogs, individually processed (individual semen: IS) and then aliquots from each male were pooled (pooled semen: PS). Semen samples (IS and PS) were diluted in a Tris‐glucose‐yolk extender and preserved as fresh (37 and 25°C) and chilled semen (4°C). Sperm motility and the percentages of sperm abnormalities and acrosome membrane integrity were assessed for 24 h. Storage at 25 or 4°C for the first 24 h yielded similar semen quality, but incubation at 37°C caused drastic reduction in sperm motility from 8 h of incubation onwards. In experiment 2, the semen was processed in the same way to that of experiment 1 and then preserved at 25 or 4°C until semen inactivation. Semen that was incubated at 25°C became completely inactive after 3–4 days of storage, while semen that was preserved at 4°C presented with more gradually decreased sperm motility (mean values of 40–60% for the first 8 days). In addition, the mixing of semen was only observed to influence the sperm quality of the samples stored at 4°C. In experiment 3, semen was collected from five dogs, pooled and frozen in liquid nitrogen; after thawing, it was preserved at 37, 25, 15 and 4°C, and the sperm quality was defined. The motility of the freeze‐thawed semen samples decreased quickly in the first 4 h after thawing, regardless of the preservation temperature of the thawed semen. This study confirmed that semen preserved at 37°C should be used within a maximum of 12 h, while the semen stored at 25°C shows acceptable quality for 24 h. Chilled semen presented highest most sustainable quality, especially when semen is processed as pooled semen.
Expression of O6‐methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) and immunohistochemical analysis of 12 pineal parenchymal tumors
Authors: Kanno Hiromi , Nishihara Hiroshi , Oikawa Mitsuteru , Ozaki Yoshimaru , Murata Junichi , Sawamura Yutaka , Kato Masahito , Kubota Kanako , Tanino Mishie , Kimura Taichi , Nagashima Kazuo , Itoh Tamio , Tanaka Shinya
Published: March 2012

Pineal parenchymal tumors (PPTs) are rare neoplasms which occupy less than 1% of primary CNS tumors. Because of their rare incidence, previous reports on PPTs are limited in number and the useful molecular markers for deciding histological grading and even selecting chemotherapy are undetermined. In this study, we conducted immunohistochemical analysis of 12 PPT specimens, especially for expression of O6‐methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) to assess whether temozolomide (TMZ) could serve as a possible alternative therapy for PPTs. We analyzed 12 PPTs, consisting of three pineocytomas, six PPTs of intermediate differentiation (PPTIDs), and three pineoblastomas. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed using antibodies against MGMT, synaptophysin, neurofilament protein (NF), p53, and neuronal nuclear antigen (NeuN). Immunohistochemically, 11 out of 12 cases were positive for MGMT. The mean MIB‐1 labeling index was less than 1% in pineocytoma, 3.5% in PPTID, and 10.5% in pineoblastoma. All 12 cases were positive for synaptophysin and 11 cases, except one PPTID case, showed positive for NF. Nuclear staining of NeuN was negative in all cases although cytoplasmic staining of NeuN was observed in five cases. No case was positive for p53. Eleven out of 12 cases of PPTs demonstrated MGMT expression, suggesting chemoresistancy to TMZ treatment. This is the first report showing MGMT expression in PPTs. In addition, MIB‐1 labeling index correlated with WHO grade, although the immunoreactivity of synaptophysin, NF, NeuN and p53 did not correlate with the histological grade.
Clomiphene citrate is safe and effective for long‐term management of hypogonadism
Authors: Moskovic Daniel J. , Katz Darren J. , Akhavan Ardavan , Park Kelly , Mulhall John P.
Published: March 2012

Study Type – Therapy (population cohort)

Level of Evidence 2a

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Clomiphene citrate (CC) has previously been documented to be efficacious in the treatment of hypogonadism. However little is known about the long term efficacy and safety of CC. Our study demonstrates that CC is efficacious after 3 years of therapy. Testosterone levels and bone mineral density measurement improved significantly and were sustained over this prolonged period. Subjective improvements were also demonstrated. No adverse events were reported.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy and safety of long‐term clomiphene citrate (CC) therapy in symptomatic patients with hypogonadism (HG).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Serum T, oestradiol and luteinizing hormone (LH) were measured in patients who were treated with CC for over 12 months.

Additionally, bone densitometry (BD) results were collected for all patients. Demographic, comorbidity, treatment and Androgen Deficiency in Aging Men (ADAM) score data were also recorded.

Comparison was made between baseline and post‐treatment variables, and multivariable analysis was conducted to define predictors of successful response to CC.

The main outcome measures were predictors of response and long‐term results with long‐term CC therapy in hypogonadal patients.

RESULTS

The 46 patients (mean age 44 years) had baseline serum testosterone (T) levels of 228 ng/dL.

Follow‐up T levels were 612 ng/dL at 1 year, 562 ng/dL at 2 years, and 582 ng/dL at 3 years (P < 0.001).

Mean femoral neck and lumbar spine BD scores improved significantly.

ADAM scores (and responses) fell from a baseline of 7 to a nadir of 3 after 1 year.

No adverse events were reported by any patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Clomiphene citrate is an effective long‐term therapy for HG in appropriate patients.

The drug raises T levels substantially in addition to improving other manifestations of HG such as osteopenia/osteoporosis and ADAM symptoms.
BIDS AND COSTS IN COMBINATORIAL AND NONCOMBINATORIAL PROCUREMENT AUCTIONS—EVIDENCE FROM PROCUREMENT OF PUBLIC CLEANING CONTRACTS
Authors: LUNANDER ANDERS , LUNDBERG SOFIA
Published: March 2012

Combinatorial procurement auctions enable suppliers to pass their potential cost synergies on to the procuring entity and may therefore lead to lower costs and enhance efficiency. However, bidders might find it profitable to inflate their stand‐alone bids in order to favor their package bids. Using data from standard and combinatorial procurement auctions, we find that bids on individual contracts in simultaneous standard auctions without the option to submit package bids are significantly lower than the corresponding stand‐alone bids in combinatorial auctions. Further, no significant difference in procurer's cost as explained by auction format is found. (JEL D44, H57, L15)
Exclusionary Pricing When Scale Matters
Authors: Karlinger Liliane , Motta Massimo
Published: March 2012

We consider an incumbent firm and a more efficient entrant, both offering a network good to several asymmetric buyers, and both being able to price discriminate. The good has positive value to buyers only if the network size exceeds a certain threshold. The incumbent's installed base guarantees this critical size to the incumbent, while the entrant needs to attract enough ‘new’ buyers to meet this threshold. We show that price discrimination (in the various forms it may take) reduces the set of achievable socially efficient entry equilibria, and discuss the policy implications of this result.
Pawns or Pioneers? The Logic of User Participation in Anti‐poverty Policy‐making in Public Policy Units in Belgium
Authors: Roets Griet , Roose Rudi , De Bie Maria , Claes Lien , van Hove Geert
Published: March 2012

Since anti‐poverty policy‐making in Belgium is embedded in a logic of user participation, social policy has shown interest in employing users with experience of poverty as experts in public policy units in order to implement and monitor anti‐poverty policies. In this article, we discuss this recent development as a relevant case for contemporary public service delivery in the European context. In the light of the ambiguous practices of user participation in Belgium, the enacted logic of involving service users in public service delivery is discussed, and potential risks and opportunities identified: do these individuals function as pawns or as pioneers? In search of opportunities for the implementation of anti‐poverty policies, we explore different ways in which public policy units can act upon the participation of employed service users in public service delivery. On the level of public service delivery, we argue that the participation of expert users risks their use as a mere blind, de‐responsibilizing those who work in public policy units in providing high‐quality services and being responsive to all service users including those living in poverty. On the level of these individual experts, we argue that the employed service users risk becoming pawns, acquiring a tragic‐optimistic outlook on life.

We conclude that enabling service users to participate as pioneers requires the joint and mutual responsibility of the employed service users and those who work in public policy units for implementing and monitoring anti‐poverty strategies rather than exclusive responsibility assigned to individual service users.
Regional variations in human patellar trabecular architecture and the structure of the quadriceps enthesis: a cadaveric study
Authors: Toumi Hechmi , Larguech Gaith , Filaire Edith , Pinti Antonio , Lespessailles Eric
Published: March 2012

We investigated whether there were regional differences in the quadriceps enthesis and the patella bone structure that could suggest unequal force transmission to the patella. Quadriceps tendon enthesis was removed by cutting the patellae transversally in the middle and the quadriceps tendon approximately 1 cm from the bone. Tissues were post‐fixed, decalcified, dehydrated through and embedded in paraffin wax. Serial longitudinal sections were cut, mounted on glass slides at 1‐mm intervals and slides were stained. Trabecular architecture was analysed from digital images taken from the histological slides, and regional differences at the enthesis in the thickness of the uncalcified fibrocartilage and the cortical zone of calcified tissue (calcified cartilage and lamellar bone) were evaluated. At the quadriceps enthesis, the thickness of the cortical zone of calcified tissue was significantly greater in the central part of the enthesis than medially and laterally. The trabeculae were thicker in the central and lateral parts compared with the medial region. Similarly, the zone of uncalcified fibrocartilage was thicker laterally and centrally than medially. Bone structure and the thickness of uncalcified fibrocartilage presented a similarity between the centre and the lateral parts; however, the medial side was different. We suggest that the mechanical stress at the proximal quadriceps tendon enthesis is higher laterally and centrally compared with medially. This could induce a lateral patellar translation, which is potentially a risk factor for knee osteoarthritis.
Characteristics of clinical and electrophysiological pattern of Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth 4C
Authors: Yger Marion , Stojkovic Tanya , Tardieu Sandrine , Maisonobe Thierry , Brice Alexis , Echaniz‐Laguna Andoni , Alembik Yves , Girard Samantha , Cazeneuve Cécile , LeGuern Eric , Dubourg Odile
Published: March 2012

To describe the clinical and electrophysiological features evoking CMT4C, an autosomal recessive (AR) form of Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease (CMT) due to mutations in the SH3TC2 gene, we screened the coding sequence of SH3TC2 gene in 102 unrelated patients with a demyelinating or intermediate CMT and a family history compatible with an AR transmission. We identified among this cohort 16 patients carrying two mutations in the SH3TC2 gene, but medical records finally analyzed 14 patients. We report clinical, electrophysiological, and molecular data of 14 patients (9 men, 5 women) with CMT4C. Mean age at examination was 43.6 years (median = 42.5). Among the 14 studied cases 6 had scoliosis as the presenting sign. Cranial nerve involvement affecting either the VIIIth, VIIth, XIIth or a combination of the IXth and Xth nerves was noted in 10 patients. Remarkably, 50% of the patients had proximal limb involvement at the time of examination. The hallmark of the electrophysiological study was the presence of probable conduction block and temporal dispersion. Thus the clinical and paraclinical spectrum of CMT4C can guide the clinician to perform analysis of the SH3TC2 gene.
Nurturing Entrepreneurs’ Work–Family Balance: A Gendered Perspective
Authors: Eddleston Kimberly A. , Powell Gary N.
Published: March 2012

A survey of 258 entrepreneurs examined how positive facets of their family experiences, family–to–business enrichment, and support, nurture their satisfaction with work–family balance. Satisfaction with work–family balance was nurtured by instrumental family–to–business enrichment to the advantage of women as a group and by instrumental support from the family at home to the advantage of men as a group. Overall, results supported feminist theories that depict entrepreneurship as a gendered process. Female entrepreneurs tend to nurture satisfaction with work–family balance by creating work–family synergies, whereas male entrepreneurs tend to nurture satisfaction with work–family balance by obtaining family support at home.
Entrepreneurial Perceptions and Intentions: The Role of Gender and Culture
Authors: Shinnar Rachel S. , Giacomin Olivier , Janssen Frank
Published: March 2012

This paper examines how culture and gender shape entrepreneurial perceptions and intentions within Hofstede's cultural dimensions framework and gender role theory. We test whether gender differences exist in the way university students in three nations perceive barriers to entrepreneurship and whether gender has a moderating effect on the relationship between perceived barriers and entrepreneurial intentions across nations. Findings indicate significant gender differences in barrier perceptions. However, this gap is not consistent across cultures. Also, a moderating effect of gender on the relationship between barriers and entrepreneurial intentions is identified. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Biofunctionalization of the implant surface with different concentrations of a synthetic peptide (P‐15)
Authors: Lutz R. , Prechtl C. , Nonhoff J. , Weisel T. , Damien C. J. , Schlegel K. A.
Published: March 2012

Objective

This study aimed at identifying the ideal concentration of a biofunctional surface coating of dental implants with a synthetic peptide (P‐15). In a previous study, P‐15 was shown to enhance osseointegration parameters.

Material and methods

Implants (modified ANKYLOS® A8; FRIADENT Plus® surface) with five different concentrations (0–400 μg/ml) of a P‐15 coating as well as uncoated controls were inserted in the frontal bone of 45 adult domestic pigs. The histomorphometric and microradiographic findings for the coated implants were compared to those for the uncoated ones after 7, 14, and 30 days.

Results

No significant differences were observed comparing the peri‐implant bone density between the coated and uncoated implants The bone‐to‐implant contact, as the primary histological parameter for osseointegration, showed high rates for all surfaces investigated (between 73.3 ± 17.9% for the control and 81.9 ± 15.2% for P15 20 μg/ml after 30 days).

Conclusions

No significant benefit on osseointegration of a biofunctional P‐15 coating of dental implants could be displayed in the present study.
Implicit leadership theories in Japan and the US
Authors: Kono Tomoe , Ehrhart Karen Holcombe , Ehrhart Mark G , Schultze Tressa
Published: March 2012

Research on implicit leadership theories (ILTs) has shown that cultural values play a role in individuals' images or prototypes regarding leaders' behavior and attributes. We examined individuals' ILTs in Japan and the United States with regard to potential cultural differences in the variability and mean levels of ILT dimensions. We collected data from 133 participants in the US and 164 participants in Japan and examined the standard deviations and means of 15 dimensions of ILTs. There was some support for our hypothesis that Japanese participants would have lower variability in their ILTs. With regard to mean levels of ILTs, US participants had higher mean scores than Japanese participants for 11 of the 12 ILT dimensions that showed significant mean differences. We interpret our findings in light of the two countries' levels of individualism/collectivism, uncertainty avoidance, and cultural tightness, and we provide research and practical implications regarding leadership in global companies.
Effect of Sample Storage on Blood Crossmatching in Horses
Authors: Harris M. , Nolen‐Walston R. , Ashton W. , May M. , Jackson K. , Boston R.
Published: March 2012

Background

Blood samples banked for up to 1 month are typically used to perform pretransfusion testing in humans and small animals, but this has not been validated using blood from horses.

Hypothesis

Compatibility of equine blood samples is repeatable using fresh samples, and reproducible using donor blood samples stored for up to 4 weeks.

Animals

Six healthy adult horses.

Methods

Randomized, blinded experimental study. Immunologic compatibility of the blood of all horses was assessed using a major and minor saline agglutination and hemolysin crossmatch using blood samples refrigerated for 0–4 weeks and fresh blood from the same horses. Crossmatch results were scored and then compared to identify changes of compatibility in each of the 4 tests. In addition, repeatability of the crossmatch technique itself was assessed by performing 6 iterations of this procedure in immediate succession with fresh blood from 3 horses.

Results

No significant difference in crossmatch results was found using fresh blood (P = .39–1.00). Reproducibility was poor using blood stored for 1–4 weeks, especially in tests using stored erythrocytes (major antigen crossmatches), with significant differences from baseline at all weeks (P < .05); 13 of these differences were positive, indicating poorer compatibility.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Equine blood crossmatching is repeatable using fresh blood, although decreased apparent compatibility after storage makes exclusion of compatible donors more likely than mistaken administration of incompatible blood. These data suggest that fresh samples should be collected from potential donors before crossmatching equine blood.
Basaltic fragments in lunar feldspathic meteorites: Connecting sample analyses to orbital remote sensing
Authors: ROBINSON Katharine L. , TREIMAN Allan H. , JOY Katherine H.
Published: March 2012

Abstract– The feldspathic lunar meteorites contain rare fragments of crystalline basalts. We analyzed 16 basalt fragments from four feldspathic lunar meteorites (Allan Hills [ALHA] 81005, MacAlpine Hills [MAC] 88104/88105, Queen Alexandra Range [QUE] 93069, Miller Range [MIL] 07006) and utilized literature data for another (Dhofar [Dho] 1180). We compositionally classify basalt fragments according to their magma’s estimated TiO2 contents, which we derive for crystalline basalts from pyroxene TiO2 and the mineral‐melt Ti distribution coefficient. Overall, most of the basalt fragments are low‐Ti basalts (1–6% TiO2), with a significant proportion of very‐low‐Ti basalts (<1% TiO2). Only a few basalt clasts were high‐Ti or intermediate Ti types (>10% TiO2 and 6–10% TiO2, respectively). This distribution of basalt TiO2 abundances is nearly identical to that obtained from orbital remote sensing of the moon (both UV‐Vis from Clementine, and gamma ray from Lunar Prospector). However, the distribution of TiO2 abundances is unlike those of the Apollo and Luna returned samples: we observe a paucity of high‐Ti basalts. The compositional types of basalt differs from meteorite to meteorite, which implies that all basalt subtypes are not randomly distributed on the Moon, i.e., the basalt fragments in each meteorite probably represent basalts in the neighborhood of the meteorite launch site. These differences in basalt chemistry and classifications may be useful in identifying the source regions of some feldspathic meteorites. Some of the basalt fragments probably originate from ancient cryptomaria, and so may hold clues to the petrogenesis of the Moon’s oldest volcanism.
An emplacement mechanism for the mega‐block zone within the Chicxulub crater, (Yucatán, Mexico) based on chemostratigraphy
Authors: BELZA Joke , GODERIS Steven , KEPPENS Eddy , VANHAECKE Frank , CLAEYS Philippe
Published: March 2012

Abstract– To better constrain the emplacement mechanism of the so‐called “mega‐block zone,” a structurally complex unit of target rocks within the Chicxulub impact structure, the stratigraphic coherence of this zone is tested using its strontium isotopic composition. Forty‐eight samples across the 616 m sequence of deformed Cretaceous rocks in the lower part of the Yaxcopoil‐1 core, drilled by ICDP in 2002, were analyzed for their 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratio. The oceanic anoxic event 2 (OAE2 event), located near the base of the core forms the only stratigraphic anchor point. From this point upward to approximately 1050 m depth, the 87Sr/86Sr trend shows small oscillations, between approximately 0.7074 and 0.7073, characteristic of Cenomanian to Santonian values. This is followed by an increase to approximately 0.7075, similar to the one reported in the seawater strontium curve during the Campanian. Scattered Sr isotope ratios are attributed to local diagenetic effects, such as those expected from the possible presence of hot, impact‐induced dikes and hydrothermal fluid flow, originating from the thick central melt sheet. The absence of Upper Maastrichtian Sr isotope values may result from the removal of upper target lithologies during the impact cratering process. Based on these results, the displaced Cretaceous sequence in Yax‐1 appears to have preserved its stratigraphic coherence. During the modification stage, it probably moved as a whole into the annular basin during collapse of the crater wall, thereby breaking up into discrete units along previously weakened detachment zones. This model is consistent with the emplacement mechanism postulated by Kenkmann et al. (2004).