bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sediment transport through rock groynes on mixed beaches
Authors: Dornbusch U.
Published: September 2008

Rock or boulder groynes are an increasingly popular option for constructing groynes with the purpose of maintaining beach levels within the groyne compartment created. Due to the open blockwork nature of construction, rock groynes are permeable to water and sediment in contrast to either concrete or timber groynes. No data exists on the rate at which mixed sediment beach material penetrates through rock groynes, yet they are used as terminal features in groyne fields or are used to maintain discontinuities in coastal alignment. On the basis of beach volumes calculated from aerial photographs and ground surveys over different time intervals and covering more than five years, examples from two coast protection schemes in south-east England show that where the beach levels on either side of the rock groyne differ, the rate of throughput is almost constant and independent of wave approach. Measured rates of transport can reach up to 1·27 m3 per day. Throughput is a function of the gradient between the beaches on either side which is determined by the cross-sectional area between the two beach profiles. An exponential relationship between the differences in cross-sectional areas either side of the rock groyne and rate of throughput is proposed.
Low HDL Cholesterol, Smoking and IL-13 R130Q Polymorphism are Associated with Myocardial Infarction in Greek Cypriot Males. A Pilot Study
Authors: Xenophontos Stavroulla , Hadjivassiliou Marilena , Karagrigoriou Alexandros , Demetriou Nafsika , Miltiadous George , Marcou Ioannis , Elisaf Moses , Mikhailidis Dimitri P , Cariolou Marios A
Published: September 2008

This study was carried out in Greek Cypriot males to identify risk factors that predispose to myocardial infarction (MI). Genetic and lipid risk factors were investigated for the first time in a Greek Cypriot male case-control study.Contrary to other studies, mean low density lipoprotein cholesterol did not differ between cases and controls. High density lipoprotein cholesterol on the other hand, although within normal range in cases and controls, was significantly higher in the control population. In agreement with many other studies, smoking was significantly more prevalent in cases compared with controls. In pooled cases and controls, smokers had a significantly lower HDL-C level compared with non-smokers. The frequency of the IL-13 R130Q homozygotes for the mutation (QQ), as well as the mutant allele were significantly higher in cases compared with controls. The IL-13 R130Q variant, or another locus, linked to it, may increase the risk of MI.
Cell Death: A One-Way Journey to the Graveyard
Authors: Giansanti Vincenzo , Scovassi Anna Ivana
Published: September 2008

Tissue homeostasis is ensured by the correct balance between cell proliferation and death, the latter mainly
occurring through a multi-step program, named apoptosis, which ultimately leads to the breakdown of cellular DNA and
proteins. Apoptosis is activated under physiological developmental conditions, during metamorphosis and atrophy of
tissues and organs, sexual differentiation and cell turnover, and can also be triggered by various external stimuli, including
DNA damage, growth factor deprivation and metabolic stress. The main features of apoptosis will be described in detail.
Although apoptosis is recognised as the main type of programmed cell death, cells may die by alternative mechanisms,
e.g. autophagy and necrosis. Their properties will be discussed in this review.
Mesoscale FDDA Experiments with WTM and ACARS Data
Authors: Chang Chia-Bo , Dumais Robert
Published: September 2008

This is a real-data Four Dimensional Data Assimilation (FDDA) study using MM5 in conjunction with West Texas Mesonet surface observations and ACARS (Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System) profile data collected by commercial aircraft during both en route and ascent/descent phases of their flights. The high-frequency mesonet data and ACARS wind and temperature profiles are ideal for testing the effects of FDDA on short-term mesoscale numerical weather prediction. The mesonet experiments involved 35 sites with an average horizontal spacing of about 30 km, while in the ACARS case ninety five profiles were used. Results indicated that nudging the MM5 model with the surface-based data over the relatively small area of the mesonet domain had limited impact on the model’s performance. In the ACARS runs, FDDA had long-lasting impact throughout the entire model atmosphere. FDDA appeared to improve the quantitative precipitation forecasting skill of MM5 and reduce slightly the model’s warm bias at the surface. The study suggests that ACARS has potential to significantly enhance our expertise in short-term mesoscale modeling and to support the need to rapidly and accurately adjust high-resolution meteorological model forecasts to real-time observations.
Improved Wind and Turbulence Measurements Using a Low-Cost 3-D Sonic Anemometer at a Low-Wind Site
Authors: Bowen Brent M.
Published: September 2008

A year of data from sonic anemometer and mechanical wind sensors was analyzed and compared at a low-wind site. Results indicate that 15-minute average and peak 1-second wind speeds (u) from the sonic agree well with data derived from a co-located cup anemometer over a wide range of speeds. Wind direction data derived from the sonic also agree closely with those from a wind vane except for very low wind speeds. Values of standard deviation of longitudinal wind speed (σu) and wind direction fluctuations (σø) from the sonic and mechanical sensors agree well for times with u > 2 ms-1 but show significant differences with lower u values. The most significant differences are associated with the standard deviation of vertical wind fluctuations (σw): the co-located vertical propeller anemometer yields values increasingly less than those measured by the sonic anemometer as u decreases from 2.5 approaching 0 ms-1. The combination of u over-estimation and under-estimation of σw from the mechanical sensors at low wind speeds causes considerable underestimation of the standard deviation of vertical wind angle fluctuations (σø), an indicator of vertical dispersion. Calculations of σø from sonic anemometer measurements are typically 5° to 10° greater than from the mechanical sensors when the mechanical instruments indicate that σø < 5° or so. The errors with the propeller anemometer, cup anemometer and wind vane, caused by their inability to respond to higher frequency (smaller scale) turbulent fluctuations, can therefore lead to large (factors of 2 to 10 or more) errors in both the vertical and horizontal dispersion during stable conditions with light winds. The sonic anemometer clearly provides more accurate and reliable wind data than the mechanical wind sensor with u < 2.5 ms-1
Effect of Dexrazoxane and Amifostine on the Vertebral Bone Quality of Doxorubicin Treated Male Rats
Authors: Mwale F , Marguier G , Ouellet J.A , Petit A , Epure L.M , Antoniou J , Chalifour L.E
Published: September 2008

Doxorubicin (DOX) is widely used in combination cocktails for treatment of childhood hematological cancers and solid tumors. A major factor limiting DOX usage is DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. However, it is not known whether protectants like dexrazoxane (DXR) and amifostine (AMF) can prevent DOX-mediated bone damage. The present study investigated whether administration of AMF alone or in combination with DXR would prevent any DOX-mediated bone damage. Male rat pups were treated with DOX, DXR, AMF, and their combinations. On neonate day 38, the bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content (BMC) and the micro-architecture of the lumbar vertebrae were analyzed. We have shown that when male rats are treated with DOX, DXR, DOX+DXR, AMF, DOX+AMF or DOX+DXR+AMF, there is a decrease in lumbar vertebral BMD (p<0.05). Furthermore, the relative bone volume (BV/TV) was decreased by DXR, DOX+DXR, and DOX+AMF treatments. Interestingly, DOX+AMF significantly increased BV/TV when compared to DXR treatment (p<0.04). The trabecular number (Tb.N) decreased with DXR and DOX+DXR and increased with DOX+AMF treatments. This information will be useful in designing better cancer combination therapies that do not lead to vertebrae deterioration.
Strengthening Healthcare Capacity Through a Responsive, Country-Specific, Training Standard: The KITSO AIDS Training Program’s Sup-port of Botswana’s National Antiretroviral Therapy Rollout
Authors: Bussmann Christine , Rotz Philip , Ndwapi Ndwapi , Baxter Daniel , Bussmann Hermann , Wester C. William , Ncube Patricia , Avalos Ava , Mine Madisa , Mabe Elang , Burns Patricia , Cardiello Peter , Makhema Joseph , Marlink Richard
Published: September 2008

In parallel with the rollout of Botswana’s national antiretroviral therapy (ART) program, the Botswana Ministry of Health established the KITSO AIDS Training Program by entering into long-term partnerships with the Botswana–Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership for HIV Research and Education and others to provide standardized, country-specific training in HIV/AIDS care. The KITSO training model has strengthened human capacity within Botswana’s health sector and been indispensable to successful ART rollout. Through core and advanced training courses and clinical mentoring, different cadres of health care workers have been trained to provide high-quality HIV/AIDS care at all ART sites in the country. Continuous and standardized clinical education will be crucial to sustain the present level of care and successfully address future treatment challenges.
Comparison of Two Analytical Methods for Detecting (1-3)-β-D-Glucan in Pure Fungal Cultures and in Home Dust Samples
Authors: Iossifova Y. , Reponen T. , Daines M. , Levin Linda , Khurana Hershey G.K.
Published: September 2008

There are two methods available for the analysis of (1-3)-β-D-glucan: the Limulus Amebocyte Lysate assay
(LAL) and the inhibition Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA). The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy and specificity
of these two methods in detecting eight alpha and beta-glucan standards, and their sensitivity for the analysis of (1-3)-β-
D-glucan content of common indoor fungal species and indoor dust samples. The results show that the LAL assay is more
accurate, specific, and sensitive in measuring linear and branched β-D-glucans than the EIA. The greatest LAL-analyzed
(1-3)-β-D-glucan content per spore (241 pg/spore) was found with E. nigrum, which also had the largest spore size (28
μm). The biomass-normalized (1-3)-β-D-glucan content of fungal spores from pure cultures was within similar range with
the two assays but no correlation was found between the results from the two assays. In contrast, there was a significant
correlation between the EIA and LAL-measured (1-3)-β-D-glucan concentrations (μg/m2 of floor area) in field dust samples.
Clinical Investigation: Determinants of Blood Cell Omega-3 Fatty Acid Content
Authors: Block Robert C. , Harris William S. , Pottala James V.
Published: September 2008

Background:

Although red blood cell eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) plus docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content
(the Omega-3 Index) predicts cardiovascular death, the factors determining the Index are unknown.

Methods:

In 704 outpatients, we undertook an investigation of the clinical determinants of the Index.

Results:

Factors associated with the Index in decreasing order were: EPA+DHA supplement use, fish consumption
frequency, triglyceride level, age, high cholesterol history, and smoking. These factors explained 59% of Index variability,
with capsules/fish intake together accounting for 47%. The Index increased by 13% (p< 0.0001) for each serving level
increase in fish intake and EPA+DHA supplementation correlated with a 58% increase (p< 0.0001) regardless of
background fish intake (p=0.25; test for interaction). A 100 mg/dL decrease in serum triglycerides was associated with a
15% higher (p<0.0001) Index.

Conclusions:

The intake of EPA+DHA-rich foods and supplements principally determined the Omega-3 Index, but
explained only about half of the variability.
The Effect of Trade Facilitation on Sectoral Trade
Authors: Martinez-Zarzoso Inma , Márquez-Ramos Laura
Published: September 2008

This paper aims to analyse the effect of trade facilitation on sectoral trade flows. We use data from the World Bank's Doing Business Database on the fees associated with completing the procedures to export or import goods in a country, on the number of documents needed and on the required time to complete all the administrative procedures to import and export. An augmented gravity equation is estimated for 13 exporters and 167 importers using a number of estimation techniques, namely OLS, PPML and the Harvey model. A common result is that trade flows increase by lowering transport costs and the number of days required to trade. The outcome supports multilateral initiatives, as that in the WTO, which encourages countries to assess their trade facilitation needs and priorities and to improve them. The measures adopted will not only benefit the country that improves trade facilitation, but also it's trading partners.
The “Perfect Storm” for Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Vaarala Outi , Atkinson Mark A. , Neu Josef
Published: September 2008

It is often stated that type 1 diabetes results from a complex interplay between varying degrees of genetic susceptibility and environmental factors. While agreeing with this principal, our desire is that this Perspectives article will highlight another complex interplay potentially associated with this disease involving facets related to the gut, one where individual factors that, upon their interaction with each another, form a “perfect storm” critical to the development of type 1 diabetes. This trio of factors includes an aberrant intestinal microbiota, a “leaky” intestinal mucosal barrier, and altered intestinal immune responsiveness. Studies examining the microecology of the gastrointestinal tract have identified specific microorganisms whose presence appears related (either quantitatively or qualitatively) to disease; in type 1 diabetes, a role for microflora in the pathogenesis of disease has recently been suggested. Increased intestinal permeability has also been observed in animal models of type 1 diabetes as well as in humans with or at increased-risk for the disease. Finally, an altered mucosal immune system has been associated with the disease and is likely a major contributor to the failure to form tolerance, resulting in the autoimmunity that underlies type 1 diabetes. Herein, we discuss the complex interplay between these factors and raise testable hypotheses that form a fertile area for future investigations as to the role of the gut in the pathogenesis and prevention of type 1 diabetes.
HOT ROCKS AND THE URANIUM Girl: Nabokov’s LOLITA
Authors: Piette Adam
Published: September 2008

This article considers Nabokov’s Lolita as an allegory of the Cold War’s obsession with uranium, correlating the uranium rush of the 1950s with the choice of some of the key locations in the book. The incursion into United States space by the foreign agent and corrupter of youth Humbert Humbert is read through the lens of Cold War anxieties about radiation, missile attack through the DEW Line and a “mapping” of America by subversive aliens. Lolita herself is the Uranium Girl, radiant child of nuclear America under threat from the death ray of the bomb’s fallout.
Piecewise Inverse Speed Correction by Using Individual Travel Times
Authors: Ou Quing (Ocean) , van Lint J. W. C. , Hoogendoorn S. P.
Published: September 2008

Traffic state estimation plays an important role in operational traffic management and is essential for real-time traffic modeling and prediction. As more heterogeneous traffic data [e.g., from loops, probe vehicles, advanced vehicle identification (AVI) systems] become available, data fusion has become one of the main challenges of state estimation. Given the different semantics over space and time (e.g., AVI data and local data from loops), data fusion is a far more complex problem than it appears at first glance. A new algorithm for fusing data from local detectors (loops) with travel times obtained from AVI systems was developed. This simple but mathematically elegant algorithm— called piecewise inverse speed correction—by using individual travel times (PISCIT) correctly and efficiently combines these data (in essence incompatible) and produces a state estimate (space mean speeds per cell), which is better than one obtained by any of the data sources individually. Moreover, PISCIT is robust with respect to structural and random errors in the source data. The approach is validated using synthetic data generated by microscopic simulation. The algorithm corrects the traffic state correctly even when nonuniform deviations are up to 70%.
Bayesian Updating of Transferred Household Travel Data
Authors: Zhang Yongping , Mohammadian Abolfazl (Kouros)
Published: September 2008

To address data limitation concerns in small and midsized urban areas, new research areas about the transferability of household travel survey data and synthetic travel data simulation are emerging. Research has suggested that local updating can significantly improve the quality of the transferred data. Among updating techniques, Bayesian updating is intuitively easy to understand and has the advantages of using prior information and successive updating. However, although parameters of interest can take various distributional forms, traditionally in practice only variables with normal distributions have been studied by using Bayesian updating. The application of Bayesian updating to two transferred travel statistics that are shown to be best fitted with gamma distribution was examined. The bootstrap method was used to justify the prior assumptions for the parameters of interest. Then, Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation with Gibbs sampler was used to update the priors of the parameters. The posteriors were then used to derive the updated means and standard deviations, which were later compared with the validation data set. The comparison results prove that significant improvement in quality of transferred travel data can be achieved and the level of improvement increases with the local sample size. A relatively cost-effective sample size was suggested for local updating of the transferred data.
Methodology to Obtain a Mexico–U.S. Multiproduct Origin–Destination Matrix
Authors: Mendoza Alberto , Pérez Emilio Abarca , Centeno Agustín G.
Published: September 2008

In the Mexican Transportation Institute, multiproduct truck traffic assignment models have been developed over the past 15 years to assess improvements to the infrastructure and the transborder transport services between Mexico and the United States. A basic input of those models is the multiproduct (by product type) origin–destination (O-D) matrix. A better prediction of flows from the assignment models is obtained if the O-D matrix input contains the flows from the origin states in Mexico, toward the border crossings, and from these to the destination states in the United States for the Mexican exports and vice versa for the Mexican imports. To obtain this matrix, the information of transborder crossings of the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) is combined with O-D information that has been gathered in Mexico for more than 15 years from field stations installed in different places of the Federal Road Network. A two-step procedure is used to combine the two previous sources (a) to escalate the Mexican flows so that what arrives at each border site (Mexican information) equals what leaves that border site toward each state of the United States (BTS Database 11) and (b) to use a gravitational procedure to distribute what arrives at the border sites for a certain product type (Mexican information) in what arrives at each state of the United States of that product type (BTS Database 9). A similar methodology has been applied for the imports from the United States.
The contralateral long thoracic nerve as a donor for upper brachial plexus neurotization procedures: cadaveric feasibility study
Authors: Tubbs R. Shane , Loukas Marios , Shoja Mohammadali M. , Shokouhi Ghaffar , Wellons John C. , Oakes W. Jerry , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A.
Published: September 2008

Object

Various donor nerves, including the ipsilateral long thoracic nerve (LTN), have been used for brachial plexus neurotization procedures. Neurotization to proximal branches of the brachial plexus using the contralateral long thoracic nerve (LTN) has, to the authors' knowledge, not been previously explored.

Methods

In an attempt to identify an additional nerve donor candidate for proximal brachial plexus neurotization, the authors dissected the LTN in 8 adult human cadavers. The nerve was transected at its distal termination and then passed deep to the clavicle and axillary neurovascular bundle. This passed segment of nerve was then tunneled subcutaneously and contralaterally across the neck to a supra- and infraclavicular exposure of the suprascapular and musculocutaneous nerves. Measurements were made of the length and diameter of the LTN.

Results

All specimens were found to have a LTN that could be brought to the aforementioned contralateral nerves. Neural connections remained tension free with left and right neck rotation of ~ 45°. The mean length of the LTN was 22 cm with a range of 18–27 cm. The overall mean diameter of this nerve was 3.0 mm. No gross evidence of injury to surrounding neurovascular structures was identified in any specimen.

Conclusions

Based on the results of this cadaveric study, the use of the contralateral LTN may be considered for neurotization of the proximal musculocutaneous and suprascapular nerves.
Direct epidural electrical stimulation of the optic nerve: a new method for intraoperative assessment of function
Authors: Bošnjak Roman , Benedièiè Mitja
Published: September 2008

Intraoperative visual system monitoring of lesions with a close relationship to the optic apparatus by using light flashes reportedly is difficult to perform, and the results are too unreliable to interpret. The authors used direct epidural electrical stimulation of the optic nerve (ON) during surgery instead of light flashes.

Four patients were included in this feasibility study. In 3 patients—1 each harboring a planum sphenoidale meningioma, a tuberculum sellae meningioma, and an intraorbital ON sheath meningioma—2 stimulating needle electrodes were placed on each side of the ON just anterior to the optic canal, before unroofing the optic canal and an extradural anterior clinoidectomy. In the fourth patient, who harbored a frontotemporal astrocytoma, stimulation was applied at the exit of the ON from the canal. The electrically induced visual evoked potentials (eVEPs) were recorded from the scalp before, during, and after tumor removal.

A typical eVEP consisted of N20 and N40 waves. The amplitude of the N40 wave varied up to 25% prior to tumor removal. In the patient with a symptomatic tuberculum sellae meningioma, the decompressive effect of opening the optic canal and the impact of manipulation during piecemeal tumor removal were detected by the eVEPs. In the patient with an ON sheath meningioma and light sensation, only the N20 wave was observed.

Epidural electrical stimulation of the ON is a safe means of providing a stable signal and real-time information on nerve conduction during surgery. It may be a useful adjunct in improving visual outcomes postoperatively. Further clinical studies are necessary.
Surface dialysis after experimental brain injury: modification of edema fluid flow in the rat model
Authors: Shulyakov Alexander V. , Benour Mahmoud , Del Bigio Marc R.
Published: September 2008

Object

This study was undertaken to determine if dialysis of damaged brain surface can reduce cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure and progressive brain edema. The authors secondarily determined if local brain cooling was simultaneously possible.

Methods

Telemetric pressure transmitters were implanted into the lumbar subarachnoid space of 58 young adult male rats. Cryogenic brain injury was created and 2 hours later decompressive craniectomy was performed. An osmotic cell with a semipermeable dialysis membrane placed on the damaged brain surface was perfused with dextran 15% solution for 2 or 4 hours. Water content was determined in the cerebral hemispheres using the wet-dry weight method. Evans blue–albumin spread was measured morphometrically. Brain temperature was measured bilaterally.

Results

The CSF pressure increased after cryogenic injury and decreased after craniotomy. Two hours of brain dialysis significantly reduced CSF pressure in comparison with craniotomy alone and sham dialysis. Injured brain had higher water content, but this was not affected by dialysis. Spread of Evans blue–albumin, however, was significantly reduced by the treatment. Cooling of the dialysis solution caused significant local brain cooling.

Conclusions

Surface dialysis of cryogenically injured rat brain controls CSF pressure and reduces intraparenchymal spread of edema fluid in the acute period after injury. The authors postulate that edema fluid moves into the osmotic cell rather than spreading through the uninjured brain. Long-term experiments will be needed to prove that this combination therapy is effective.
Brain cortex regeneration affected by scaffold architectures
Authors: Wong Darice Y. , Krebsbach Paul H. , Hollister Scott J.
Published: September 2008

Object

The aim of this study was to compare designed scaffolds with a random-pored sponge scaffold to determine what role scaffold architecture plays in a cortical injury model.

Methods

Cylindrical scaffolds (3 × 3 mm) were made of a poly-(ε-caprolactone) polymer with 2 different molds from a 3D printer and had either: 1) unidirectional channels and microgrooves oriented longitudinally within the cylinder or 2) orthogonally intersecting channels and axial microgrooves within the cylinder. Additional randomized porosity was imparted using a salt-leaching method. A control scaffold without channels or microgrooves but containing random pores was also made. Scaffolds were implanted for 1, 4, and 8 weeks in a cylindrical defect created 3 mm posterior to the bregma in rat cortex. Control animals had tissue removed but received no implant. Brains were coronally cryosectioned and sections were stained. Antibodies for nestin, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and TUJ1 were used to identify neural progenitors, activated astrocytes, and neuronal axons. Tissue ingrowth (H & E), astrocytic infiltration (GFAP), parenchymal inflammation (GFAP), and defect width (H & E) were quantified from images.

Results

Defect widths grew and parenchymal inflammation decreased over time with no statistical difference between groups. Total tissue ingrowth and astrocytic infiltration increased over time and was greatest in the orthogonal design group. Specific cell ingrowth, which was aligned with microgrooves interiorly in the orthogonal group and exteriorly in the longitudinal channel group, was qualitatively assessed from nestin and TUJ1 labeling.

Conclusions

Scaffold architecture can benefit brain tissue regeneration by integrating the following design principles: 1) large (100s of micrometers) pores or channels oriented toward the parenchyma for increased astrocytic infiltration; 2) microgrooves oriented in the desired direction of cellular migration and neuronal alignment; and 3) fully interconnecting channels for cellular migration and tissue integration.
Mesencephalic ependymal cysts: treatment under pure endoscopic or endoscope–assisted keyhole conditions
Authors: Conrad Jens , Welschehold Stefan , Charalampaki Patra , van Lindert Erik , Grunert Peter , Perneczky Axel
Published: September 2008

Object

Primary intracranial ependymal cysts are extremely rare. Similar to congenital intraparenchymal cysts in the mesencephalon they usually occur with symptoms of an occlusive hydrocephalus or symptoms like Parinaud syndrome, dizziness, or gait disturbance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the surgical methods for the treatment of these cysts and the clinical outcome of the patients.

Methods

The authors present the clinical records of 8 patients who were treated in their department for symptomatic mesencephalic ependymal cysts in the past 10 years. The patient age ranged from 22 to 60 years with a mean age of 44 years. In 4 cases the authors performed a suboccipital infratentorial supracerebellar approach by using endoscope-assisted microsurgery. The other 4 patients underwent a pure endoscopic procedure over a frontal bur hole trepanation.

Results

Four patients became symptom free, and the remaining 4 improved significantly after a mean follow-up duration of 38.5 months (range 5–119 months). One patient underwent 2 operations: first a ventriculocystostomy and 4 months later endoscopic third ventriculostomy because of recurrent hydrocephalus. In 1 case a second surgery was necessary because of a wound infection. In all of the patients an adequate fenestration of the cyst was achieved.

Conclusions

A symptomatic mesencephalic ependymal cyst is an indication for neurosurgical intervention. These cysts can be treated successfully and most likely definitively by a pure endoscopic or endoscope-assisted keyhole neurosurgical technique. There were no morbid conditions or death due to the procedures in this group of 8 patients. Therefore, the authors regard these surgical procedures to be good alternatives to treatments such as shunt placement or stereotactic aspiration of the cysts.
Posterior fossa arachnoid cyst, tonsillar herniation, and syringomyelia in trichorhinophalangeal syndrome Type I
Authors: Martínez-Lage Juan F. , Ruiz-Espejo Antonio , Guillén-Navarro Encarna , Almagro María-José
Published: September 2008

The authors report the case of a patient with Chiari malformation Type I (CM-I) and syringomyelia probably caused by a retrocerebellar arachnoid cyst. The patient's phenotype corresponded to trichorhinophalangeal syndrome Type I. The authors attributed the origin of both the retrocerebellar cyst and the abnormal posterior fossa to endochondral ossification anomalies that occur in this syndrome. The patient's spinal pain was most likely a result of the combination of CM-I and syringomyelia. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first report on the association of CM-I and syringomyelia with a retrocerebellar arachnoid cyst occurring in a patient with trichorhinophalangeal syndrome Type I. The authors discuss the pathogenetic mechanisms involved in the production of tonsillar descent and syringomyelia in this patient, and review the current literature on related conditions that can result in this association.
Transfer RNA and the Origins of Diversified Life
Authors: Sun Feng-Jie , Caetano-Anollés Gustavo
Published: September 2008

The evolution of the transfer RNA (tRNA) molecule is controversial but embeds the history of protein biosynthesis, the genetic code, and the origins of diversified life. A new phylogenetic method based on RNA structure that we developed provides new lines of evidence to support the genome tag hypothesis and confirms that the ‘top half of tRNA is more ancient than the ‘bottom half Timelines of amino acid charging function generated from constraint analyses showed that selenocysteine, tyrosine, serine, and leucine specificities were ancient, while those related to asparagine, methionine, and arginine were more recent. The timelines also uncovered an early role of the second and then first codon bases, identified codons for alanine and proline as the most ancient, and revealed important evolutionary take-overs related to the loss of the long variable arm of tRNA. Furthermore, organismal timelines showed Archaea was the oldest superkingdom, followed by viruses, and superkingdoms Eukarya and Bacteria in that order, supporting conclusions from recent phylogenomic studies of protein architecture. Strikingly, results showed that the origin of viruses was not only ancient but was linked to Archaea, supporting the notion that the archaeal lineage is the most ancient on earth and its origin predated diversification of tRNA function and specificity.
Strategic partnering with Chinese companies: hidden motives and treasures
Authors: Duysters Geert , Saebi Tina , Qinqin Dong
Published: September 2008

In this paper we aim to investigate the key drivers of international alliance formation from the perspective of Chinese companies. Our results indicate that Chinese companies enter into alliances with Western companies mainly to get accesses to international markets and to develop their technological and managerial competences further. Therefore we can say that Chinese companies particularly value task-related criteria when selecting Western partners. Nevertheless we also find that Chinese companies also include 'soft' factors such as trust, compatibility or reputation in their partner selection process. We therefore conclude that in searching for Western partners, Chinese companies try to find a combination of 'hard' competencies such as technology and other resources as well as more 'soft' attributes such as trust, mutual understanding and commitment.
Effect of Fusarium verticillioides extract on specific antibody production against Paracoccidioides brasiliensis
Authors: Itano E. , Sasaki A. , Ribeiro A. , Fujii S. , Ono E. , Sabino M. , Kawamura O. , Kaminami M. , Ono M. , Hirooka E.
Published: September 2008

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of partially purifiedFusarium verticillioidesfumonisins (FB) on the specific humoral response in mice infected withParacoccidioides brasiliensis(Pb), the agent of paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM). Four groups of male Swiss mice were used (total 44 mice): infected (Pb), treated (FB), infected and treated (Pb/FB) and uninfected and untreated (PBS). Groups Pb and Pb/FB were inoculated i.v. with 1x105Pb yeast cells (strain Pb18) and, after 28 days, groups FB and Pb/FB were inoculated (s.c.) with partially purified FB fromF. verticillioides(5x2.25 mg FB/kg body weight). After 7 days, the plasma levels of total IgG and anti-gp43 IgG (specific antibody) were analysed by immunoenzyme assay (ELISA). The total IgG level was higher in groups Pb, FB and Pb/FB than in PBS (P<0.05) and the anti-gp43 IgG level was raised in groups Pb and Pb/FB, but a significant result was obtained only in Pb/FB, relative to the other groups (P<0.05). In conclusion, FB or other components ofF. verticillioidesextracts significantly increase the specific antibody response in male Swiss mice infected with Pb.
Growth of aflatoxigenic moulds and aflatoxin formation in Brazil nuts
Authors: Johnsson P. , Lindblad M. , Thim A. , Jonsson N. , Vargas E. , Medeiros N. , Brabet C. , Quaresma de Araújo M. , Olsen M.
Published: September 2008

The present study aimed at gaining more knowledge of the growth of aflatoxigenic moulds and aflatoxin production in Brazil nuts in relation to humidity conditions and storage time. For this purpose, the growth of aflatoxigenic moulds and the increase in aflatoxin levels in Brazil nuts was studied in the laboratory at temperature and humidity conditions that are relevant for the Amazon region. Fresh unprocessed Brazil nuts in shell were inoculated with an aflatoxin producing strain of Aspergillus nomius previously isolated from Brazil nuts. The nuts were stored at 27 °C in combination with 97, 90 or 80% surrounding relative humidity in a respirometer for up to 3 months. The General Linear Model (GLM) was used for evaluation of the effect of water activity and time on aflatoxigenic mould levels and on aflatoxin levels, as well as the relationship between mould and aflatoxin levels. During storage at the highest relative humidity (97%) aflatoxin formation occurred rapidly, whereas storage at 90% relative humidity resulted in slower aflatoxin formation. At the lowest relative humidity (80%), aflatoxin formation occurred sporadically during storage. The increase in mould and aflatoxin levels along the production chain is also described, using field data collected in the state of Para, Brazil. The growth of aflatoxigenic moulds and aflatoxin formation increased rapidly between 40-90 days following collection of the nuts, before the nuts reached the final drying stage at the processing plant. In addition, a logistic regression model predicting the probability that the European legislative limit of 4 µg/kg for aflatoxins in nuts will be exceeded in relation to colony counts of either one selected aflatoxigenic mould strain (laboratory experiments) or of a mixture of aflatoxigenic strains (field data) was developed. The probability that total aflatoxin levels will exceed the European legislative limit of 4 µg/kg increased rapidly from approx. 30% to above 80% for both experimental and field samples at mould levels between 2 and 3 log cfu/g.
Zearalenone and its metabolites: occurrence, detection, toxicity and guidelines
Authors: Gromadzka K. , Waskiewicz A. , Chelkowski J. , Golinski P.
Published: September 2008

Zearalenone is a mycotoxin produced by some Fusarium species in food and feed. From a global perspective, Fusarium mycotoxins may be considered as metabolites of particular importance to animal health and productivity. The aim of this review is to collect and summarise information concerning the properties of zearalenone, its derivatives and their biotransformation. Data on the occurrence and toxicity of zearalenone and a comparison of analytical methods used in zearalenone identification and quantification will also be discussed. As our awareness and understanding of the risks associated with zearalenone exposure increase, some countries set official or recommended limits in certain commodities.
An exploratory investigation of several mycotoxins and their natural occurrence in flavour ingredients and spices, using a multi-mycotoxin LC-MS/MS method
Authors: Boonzaaijer G. , van Osenbruggen W. , Kleinnijenhuis A. , van Dongen W.
Published: September 2008

An exploratory investigation was carried out of several flavour ingredients and spices for the occurrence of mycotoxins. For this purpose, a modern liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry technique was used, utilising a quadrupole mass spectrometer of the latest generation. The method includes the determination of the following mycotoxins: aflatoxin B1, aflatoxin B2, aflatoxin G1, aflatoxin G2, ochratoxin A, deoxynivalenol, nivalenol, T-2 toxin, HT-2 toxin, zearalenone and fumonisin B1. The method has been successfully validated in-house and was used to determine the occurrence of mycotoxins in approximately 60 samples of flavour ingredients and spices (samples of lime oil, orange oil, melon extract, grapefruit oil, paprika extract, tangerine oil, olive oil, chilli pepper oil, peppermint oil, galangal root powder, gentian root powder, chilli pepper, black pepper, white pepper, garlic powder, paprika powder, coriander seed, dill herb and onion). Ochratoxin A was found in paprika powder and paprika extract; low levels of aflatoxins were found in paprika powder and pepper. Fumonisin B1 was found in garlic powder and onion powder. The presence of fumonisin B1 in onion and garlic powder has not been described before. For the moment, we can conclude that the found contamination levels are no reason for concern.
Mycotoxins and mould contamination in cheese: a review
Authors: Sengun I. , Yaman D. , Gonul S.
Published: September 2008

Many types of cheese are an excellent substrate for mould growth. Important fungi growing on cheese include Penicillium, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Geotrichum, Mucor and Trichoderma. Incidence of moulds in cheese indicates that the predominant flora belong to the genus Penicillium. Some types of cheese such as Camembert and Roquefort cheese intentionally contain moulds. In the production of these kinds of cheeses, starter fungal cultures that have low toxigenic capacity should be selected and spontaneously moulded cheeses should not be consumed to avoid mycotoxin risk. Mycotoxins produced by certain moulds as a toxic metabolic substances can be found in dairy products from two origins: (1) indirect contamination, which results when dairy cows ingest feed that contains mycotoxins that pass into the milk such as aflatoxin M1, and (2) direct contamination, which occurs because of the intentional or accidental growth of moulds. The most common mycotoxins which are stable in cheese are citrinin, penitrem A, roquefortine C, sterigmatocystin and aflatoxin. On the other hand patulin, penicillic acid and PR toxin do not persist in cheese. The significance of patulin, penicillic acid, and mycophenolic acid in cheese in small amounts is probably not great from a public health standpoint because of their low oral toxicity while sterigmatocystin is of more concern because of its carcinogenicity. Mycotoxins may cause fatal poisoning and toxic effects called acute and chronic mycotoxicoses. Several human and animal intoxications by mycotoxins have been reported such as 'turkey's X disease', alimentary toxic aleukia and yellow rain. Mycotoxin production in foods can be affected by temperature, food substrate, strain of mould and other environmental factors. There are physical, chemical and biological methods to prevent the growth of fungi, eliminate or reduce the toxin levels, degrade or detoxify the toxins in foods and feeds. However, the best way for avoiding mycotoxins in dairy products is to prevent mould contamination since there are limitations of degradation or detoxifications.
Drawing facilitates children's reports of factual and narrative information: implications for educational contexts
Authors: Gross Julien , Hayne Harlene , Drury Tanya
Published: September 2008

In the present study, we examined the effect of drawing on children's reports of an educational event. Five‐ and 6‐year‐old children visited a local museum and were interviewed either 1–2 days or 7 months later. After each delay, half of the children were asked to tell about what they had learned during their visit to the museum and the other half were given the opportunity to draw while telling. All children were also given a standard comprehension test, covering material that the museum staff considered to be most relevant to the visit. When tested after a short delay, children who drew while talking reported more factual and more narrative information than children who did not draw. When tested after a long delay, drawing only enhanced children's reports of narrative information. After both delays, children's verbal descriptions of the event exceeded their scores on the comprehension test. These data have important practical implications for the educational value of museum visits and suggest a new method of assessing children's learning in educational contexts. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Children and adults are differentially affected by presentation modality in the DRM paradigm
Authors: Khanna Maya M. , Cortese Michael J.
Published: September 2008

Using the Deese–Roediger–McDermott (DRM) method for free recall, we examined mode of list presentation and association type in 8–9 year old children and adults. Participants verbally recalled lists of associates that were presented orally (Experiment 1) or visually (Experiment 2). Lists consisted of semantic associates (e.g. hound, puppy, etc.), phonological associates (e.g. log, dot, etc.) and both semantic and phonological associates (e.g. hound, dot, etc.) to a nonpresented lure word (e.g. dog). Interestingly, the ratio of false to true recall was higher in children than adults only when lists were presented orally. These results suggest that children rely more on sublexical information or item‐specific information than adults when reading lists, and, thus, are less likely to activate the critical lure via lexical associations. Furthermore, these results suggest that information processing differences at encoding between children and adults need to be taken into account when interpreting free recall studies. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploiting Non‐Covalent Interactions in Synthesis: Macrocyclization Employing Amide‐Based Auxiliaries
Authors: El‐Azizi Yassir , Zakarian Joseph E. , Bouillerand Lisa , Schmitzer Andreea R. , Collins Shawn K.
Published: September 2008

Efficient macrocyclic olefin and en‐yne metathesis can be conducted employing benzyl ester auxiliaries that engage in quadrupolar interactions. The use of amide linkers in place of esters results in higher overall yields. Computational studies suggest that amide auxiliaries stabilize conformers conducive to macrocyclization over 22 times more efficiently than an ester linkage. Molecular modelling studies also suggest a preference for engaging in quadrupolar interaction for the amide auxiliaries, in contrast to the lone‐pair (lp):π interactions predicted for ester‐based auxiliaries.
Selective Hydrogen Oxidation Catalysts via Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Beckers Jurriaan , Clerc Frédèric , Blank Jan Hendrik , Rothenberg Gadi
Published: September 2008

Solid “oxygen reservoirs,” such as doped ceria, can be successfully applied in a novel process for the oxidative dehydrogenation of propane. The ceria lattice oxygen selectively burns hydrogen from the dehydrogenation mixture at 550 °C. This gives three key advantages: it shifts the dehydrogenation equilibrium to the desired product side, generates heat in situ, which aids the endothermic dehydrogenation, and simplifies product separation. We have applied a genetic algorithm to screen doped cerias for their performance in the selective hydrogen oxidation. Three generations of doped ceria catalysts (61 catalysts in total), were synthesised. Dopants were chosen from a set of 26 elements, and with a maximum of two dopants per catalyst, at five different concentrations. The catalyst performance (activity and selectivity), is expressed by a fitness value. Each generation shows a higher average fitness value. The dopant type has a large effect on the catalyst fitness. We identified six dopant atoms which lead to selective hydrogen combustion catalysts, namely bismuth (Bi), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), potassium (K), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb) and tin (Sn) (“good” dopants). Analysis of the effect of electronegativity, ionic radius and dopant concentration shows that most elements yielding a high fitness have electronegativities ranging from 1.5–1.9. Generally, the properties of catalysts containing two dopants can be predicted from the behaviour of singly doped ones. Synergy does occur for certain copper‐, iron‐ and platinum‐containing catalysts. The addition of calcium (Ca) or magnesium (Mg) to copper‐doped catalysts doubles the activity, and the selectivity of iron doped catalysts can be improved by adding chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn) or zirconium (Zr). Importantly, the doped cerias show a high stability in the redox cycling, much higher than that of supported oxides. A Cr‐ and Zr‐doped catalyst (Ce0.90Cr0.05Zr0.05O2) was highly selective and active over 250 redox cycles (a total of 148 h on stream), with no phase segregation or change in particle size.