bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Burden of Visceral Leishmaniasis in India: Challenges in Using Remote Sensing and GIS to Understand and Control
Authors: Bhunia Gouri Sankar , Kesari Shreekant , Chatterjee Nandini , Kumar Vijay , Das Pradeep
Published: November 2012

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) continues to constitute immense public health problems and be an obstacle to socioeconomic development in India. The scrutiny of this disease remains a necessary step in its control, eradication, and prevention. Space technologies proffer new opportunities for rapid appraisal of endemic areas, stipulation of trustworthy estimation of populations at risk, prediction of disease distributions in areas that lack baseline data and are difficult to access, and guiding intervention strategies. Here, we focus on the epidemiology and control of VL in India and review remote sensing (RS) and GIS applications to date. For the original evidenced report, a search was done on electronic databases of PubMed, ERMSS, EQUEST and from online Internet searching to come across the recent research problems. We discuss the previous work conducted in this field, outlined potential new applications of GIS and RS techniques, and utilization of emerging satellite information, as they hold a promising area to further enhance VL risk mapping and prediction. Finally, we concluded with a discussion of strategies to overcome some of the perspective challenges of GIS and RS applications for VL control, so that supplementary and continued progress can be made to control this disease in India and elsewhere.
CandidaInfections and Their Prevention
Authors: Kabir M. Anaul , Ahmad Zulfiqar
Published: November 2012

Infections caused byCandidaspecies have been increased dramatically worldwide due to the increase in immunocompromised patients. For the prevention and cure of candidiasis, several strategies have been adopted at clinical level.Candidainfected patients are commonly treated with a variety of antifungal drugs such as fluconazole, amphotericin B, nystatin, and flucytosine. Moreover, early detection and speciation of the fungal agents will play a crucial role for administering appropriate drugs for antifungal therapy. Many modern technologies like MALDI-TOF-MS, real-time PCR, and DNA microarray are being applied for accurate and fast detection of the strains. However, during prolonged use of these drugs, many fungal pathogens become resistant and antifungal therapy suffers. In this regard, combination of two or more antifungal drugs is thought to be an alternative to counter the rising drug resistance. Also, many inhibitors of efflux pumps have been designed and tested in different models to effectively treat candidiasis. However, most of the synthetic drugs have side effects and biomedicines like antibodies and polysaccharide-peptide conjugates could be better alternatives and safe options to prevent and cure the diseases. Furthermore, availability of genome sequences ofCandida  albicansand other non-albicansstrains has made it feasible to analyze the genes for their roles in adherence, penetration, and establishment of diseases. Understanding the biology ofCandidaspecies by applying different modern and advanced technology will definitely help us in preventing and curing the diseases caused by fungal pathogens.
Sustainable Provincial Power Development Plan: Case Study of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province
Authors: Senpong Chariya , Wiwattanadate Dawan
Published: November 2012

Potential of renewable energy resources for electricity generation as well as energy supply and demand in Nakhon Si Thammarat province were studied with an objective to develop a sustainable provincial power development plan, and/or to search for renewable energy capacity to replace 2 x 800 MW coalfired power plants have been planned to be installed in the province under PDP2010. The study shows significant potential of renewable energy in the province; especially wind energy, solid waste and biomass. Total capacity of the renewable energy for electricity generation reported in other studies was as high as 3,181.84 MW; however, the installed renewable energy power plants in the province as of 2011 just stand at 42 MW due to various limitations.   Meanwhile, the provincial electricity demand forecast is continued increasing up to 647 MW by the end of 2030. More Renewable energy has been to fulfill energy demand in the province, integration of renewable energy policy, database, and technology innovation are keys success factors for sustainable provincial energy planning. A renewable information center working together with government, business, and the public would be needed to initiate developing the plan with a public organization proposing the provincial committee under public participation and acceptance.   Keywords: Provincial Power Development Plan, renewable energy, coalfired power plant, sustainable energy development, self-reliance energy management, provincial electricity generating.
Performance in Autobiographical Memory of Older Adults with Depression Symptoms
Authors: Latorre José M. , Ricarte Jorge J. , Serrano Juan P. , Ros Laura , Navarro Beatriz , Aguilar María J.
Published: November 2012

The aim of this study was to compare the performance in the Autobiographical Memory Test in older adults with high scores on depression symptoms (HDS) compared with a matched group with low scores on depression symptoms (LDS) according to the clinical cut‐off of the Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale. Participants were asked to generate specific autobiographical memories in response to a series of positive and negative cue words. Latencies of responses for each item were also scored. LDS participants showed a higher proportion of specific memories than HDS participants. Latencies of responses to positive and negative cues were greater for HDS than LDS. Specific autobiographical memory was positively associated with Life Satisfaction. Cognitive emotional changes in the function of memory with age are suggested as a possible explanation for the findings. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Palladium‐Catalyzed CN Cross‐Coupling of N′‐Monosubstituted Sulfondiimines with Aryl Bromides
Authors: Candy Mathieu , Bohmann Rebekka Anna , Bolm Carsten
Published: November 2012

A general method for the N‐arylation of sulfondiimines with aryl bromides using tris(dibenzylideneacetone)dipalladium(0) [Pd2(dba)3] and 2‐dicyclohexylphosphino‐2′,6′‐diisopropoxybiphenyl (RuPhos) as catalyst system was developed. A new benzothiazine was obtained, and a protocol for the cleavage of para‐methoxyphenyl (PMP) groups in PMP‐protected sulfondiimines has been found, which provides access to synthetically useful NH‐derivatives, that are difficult to prepare by other means.
The Lysine48‐Based Polyubiquitin Chain Proteasomal Signal: Not a Single Child Anymore
Authors: Kravtsova‐Ivantsiv Yelena , Sommer Thomas , Ciechanover Aaron
Published: November 2012

The conjugation of ubiquitin (Ub) to proteins is involved in the regulation of many processes. The modification serves as a recognition element in trans, in which downstream effectors bind to the modified protein and determine its fate and/or function. A polyUb chain that is linked through internal lysine (Lys)‐48 of Ub and anchored to an internal Lys residue of the substrate has become the accepted “canonical” signal for proteasomal targeting and degradation. However, recent studies show that the signal is far more diverse and that chains based on other internal linkages, as well as linear or heterologous chains made of Ub and Ub‐like proteins and even monoUb, are recognized by the proteasome. In addition, chains linked to residues other than internal Lys were described, all challenging the current paradigm.
Effect of solvent on ionic liquid dissolved regenerated antheraea assamensis silk fibroin
Authors: Goujon Nicolas , Rajkhowa Rangam , Wang Xungai , Byrne Nolene
Published: November 2012

We report on the dissolution of semi‐domestic silk type Antheraea assamensis using ionic liquids. We investigated the impact of different coagulating solvents, including isopropanol and water on the structure and the morphology of the regenerated silk. We found that the water regenerated silk film showed a high β‐sheet content and a native silk‐like XRD pattern. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
N‐(hydroxymethyl) acrylamide as a multifunctional finish to cotton and a tether for grafting methacrylamide for biocidal coatings
Authors: Yildiz Ozkan , Cerkez Idris , Kocer Hasan B. , Worley S. D. , Broughton R. M. , Huang T. S.
Published: November 2012

N‐(hydroxymethyl) acrylamide (NMA) was immobilized on cotton surfaces through etherification, and then methacrylamide (MA) was grafted onto the treated surface. The coatings were characterized by ATR‐IR spectroscopy and were rendered biocidal upon exposure to dilute household bleach. The treated fabrics were challenged with Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria; both NMA and NMA/MA‐treated fabrics inactivated about 8 logs of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus within only 5 min of contact time. The coatings were also quite stable toward ultraviolet (UVA) light exposure and repeated laundering. Moreover, a substantial improvement in wrinkle recovery angle was obtained for the NMA/MA‐treated fabrics. The new acyclic acrylamide N‐halamine coating should be less expensive to produce and use than previous cyclic N‐halamine coatings developed in these laboratories. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synergistic mechanical response of Nylon 6/Trogamid® T blends
Authors: Ridhore Amol , Jog Jyoti
Published: November 2012

Blends of semicrystalline Nylon 6 with a varying ratios of amorphous Nylon are studied for their morphological, thermal, dielectric, and mechanical behavior. Thermal analysis indicated a compositional dependant decrease in the melting and crystallization temperatures of Nylon 6. The blends exhibited a single compositional dependant glass transition temperature in dynamic mechanical thermal analysis and dielectrical relaxation spectroscopy over entire mixing ratio indicating miscibility between the blend components. The values of flexural modulus and tensile modulus of the blends are found to increase without significant loss in the impact properties. The water absorption of the blends is also lower than the values calculated by rule of mixtures. The observed synergistic behavior of the mechanical properties of the blends is indicative of presence of strong interactions in the blends components. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Microwave preparation and copper ions adsorption properties of crosslinked chitosan/ZSM molecular sieve composites
Authors: Li Haiming , Huang Dinghai
Published: November 2012

A novel chitosan‐based composite (CTS/ZSM) made of chitosan and ZSM molecular sieve was prepared under microwave irradiation and was used for the removal of Cu (II) ions from aqueous solution. The composites were characterized by FTIR spectra, XRD spectra, and thermogravimetric analysis. The effects of the ZSM content, amount of glutaraldehyde and pH value on adsorption properties of Cu (II) ions by CTS/ZSM were discussed in detail. Contrast with crosslinked chitosan (CCTS), the CTS/ZSM had higher adsorption capacity for Cu (II). Kinetic studies showed that the adsorption of Cu (II) onto CTS/ZSM composite had low correlation coefficients for the pseudo‐first and ‐second order model and intraparticle diffusion model. The equilibrium process was better described by the Langmuir than Freundlich isotherm model. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synthesis and characterization of poly(silyl urethane)s derived from glycol‐modified silanes
Authors: Coneski Peter N. , Weise Nickolaus K. , Wynne James H.
Published: November 2012

Hybrid composites are a class of material that have gained substantial recognition due to their highly sought‐after properties of both organics and inorganics. A novel method for incorporating inorganic content into urethane materials is through the use of organically modified silicate cross‐linkers. Glycol‐modified silanes, in particular, allow for the facile preparation of highly cross‐linked urethane materials with a wide range of bulk and surface characteristics including glass transition temperature (−40.4–85.6°C), storage modulus (0.7–1.62 GPa), and surface energy (19.0–62.4 dynes cm−1). Importantly, control of the overall polymer properties remains achievable via the structural control of macrodiols and isocyanates. Additionally, incorporation of silicate cross‐linkers into urethane systems provides these materials with a hydrolyzable character, which may be controlled by altering the bulk polymer composition, cross‐link density, and surface energy. The unique nature of these systems also allows for the preparation of highly cross‐linked urethanes in the absence of any heavy metal catalysts and depending on the composition, with the use of little to no solvent. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synthesis of hybrid ZnO/CNTs nanoparticles and their reinforcement in nylon‐6 polymer fibers
Authors: Rangari Vijaya K. , Mohammad Ghouse M. , Seyhan Boyoglu, , Jeelani Shaik
Published: November 2012

In this investigation, in situ synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles in the presence of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been carried out using a sonochemical technique. Zinc(II)acetate was used as a source of ZnO in the presence of ethylene glycol (EG) to obtain zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. The synthesized hybrid ZnO/CNTs nanoparticles were used as reinforcements to enhance the mechanical, thermal and UV absorbing properties of Nylon‐6 composite fibers. The polymer nanocomposites (PNC) were fabricated by dry mixing Nylon‐6 polymer powder with the ZnO/CNTs hybrid nanoparticles as the first step, then followed by the drying and melt extrusion process of fiber materials in a single‐screw extruder. The extruded fibers were stretched and stabilized using a godet set‐up and wound on a Wayne filament winder machine. The hybrid ZnO/CNTs infused Nylon‐6 composite fibers were compared with commercial ZnO, CNTs infused Nylon‐6 composite fibers and neat Nylon‐6 fibers for their structural and thermal properties. The morphological characteristics of ZnO/CNTs nanoparticles were carried out using X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. The Nylon‐6 PNC fibers which were of ∼80 μ size were tested mechanically. The tensile tests revealed that failure stress of the 1% infused ZnO/CNTs Nylon‐6 PNC fibers is about 73% higher than the neat extruded Nylon‐6 fiber and the improvement in the tensile modulus is 377.4%. The DSC results show an increase in the glass transition temperature and crystallization for ZnO/CNTs infused Nylon‐6 PNC fibers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Conservation value of waterfalls as habitat for lotic insects of western Victoria, Australia
Authors: Rackemann Sarah L. , Robson Belinda J. , Matthews Ty G.
Published: November 2012

The conservation significance of waterfalls for insect assemblages is not well known, but there are aquatic insect species known to be waterfall specialists. If waterfalls support distinct insect assemblages, they may make a disproportionately large contribution to regional freshwater insect diversity.

The aim of the present study was to determine whether waterfalls in western Victoria, Australia, support distinct insect assemblages compared with other, fast‐flowing habitat (e.g. riffles). Twelve waterfalls were sampled during autumn and winter 2009, with three positions sampled at each waterfall: the vertical rock face; directly below the waterfall rock face; and an adjacent riffle.

Insect assemblages on vertical rock faces differed from those in riffles and below waterfalls. Insects positively associated with waterfall rock faces were coleopterans, plecopterans or trichopterans. Turnover (beta‐diversity) of taxa was higher among waterfall rock faces in autumn than among riffles or below waterfalls at either sampling time.

The mean (± SE) number of insect taxa was greater in riffles (autumn 11 spp. ± 1.5; winter 15 ± 1.4) than rock faces (autumn 9 spp. ± 0.9; winter 7 ± 0.5). Some species were found only on waterfall rock faces. The total number of taxa was higher on waterfalls with a higher percentage cover of moss. Waterfall habitat appears to support the existence of certain insect species and may provide a refuge for rheophilic species during periods of low flow.

Conservation of waterfall habitat is thus important for conserving aquatic insect diversity, and waterfall‐dependent and rheophilic taxa will be threatened by disturbances such as drought and river regulation that reduce stream flows. Environmental water allocations could be used to preserve fast‐flowing waterfall habitat, but flow requirements of waterfall insects need to be further investigated and included in river flow management.

Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Blood volume pulse (BVP) derived vagal tone (VT) between 5 and 7 years of age: A methodological investigation of measurement and longitudinal stability
Authors: Heathers James A. J. , Fink Elian , Kuhnert Rebecca‐Lee , de Rosnay Marc
Published: November 2012

The present study evaluated the possibility of collecting cardiac vagal tone data using a photoplethysmograph, and its stability and continuity in a longitudinal sample of early‐school aged children. A method for the optical (i.e., blood volume pulse) estimation of heart rate was established in a pilot study. Then the longitudinal stability and continuity in photoplethysmograph‐derived vagal tone was assessed in 114 children (56 girls) at three sessions between 5 and 7 years of age. Results indicate that this method possesses substantial measurement reliability and individual stability, as children report low intra‐individual variation over time. Children also report a mean decrease in vagal tone from 5 to 7 years of age, consistent with increased attentional capacity. Overall, this suggests blood volume pulse estimation of vagal tone is both accurate and appropriate for naturalistic developmental research. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 23–35, 2014.
Superstars “like” me: The effect of role model similarity on performance under threat
Authors: Marx David M. , Ko Sei Jin
Published: November 2012

Past work has shown that in‐group role models buffer stereotyped targets from stereotype threat. What is less clear is what makes an effective in‐group role model. Accordingly, we conducted a study to examine whether increasing the similarity of in‐group role models will enhance their effectiveness in stereotype threat situations. Female participants in this study were either exposed to a more or less similar (on the basis of school affiliation, life experiences, and interests) female job candidate who was either high or low in math competence. Afterwards, participants took a math exam under stereotype threat conditions. Results revealed that similarity moderated the effect of job candidate math competence: Female participants' math performance improved more after exposure to a more similar compared with a less similar, high math‐competent candidate. No effects of similarity occurred for the low math‐competent candidates. We further found that feelings of intimidation partially mediated the performance effects. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stability and Lifetime of Potassium Solid‐Contact Ion Selective Electrodes for Continuous and Autonomous Measurements
Authors: McElhoney Kyle , O'Neil Glen D. , Chaniotakis Nikos A. , Kounaves Samuel P.
Published: November 2012

The current generation of solid‐contact ion‐selective electrodes (SC‐ISE) suffer from lack of stability and lifetime. When using such sensors for remote, continuous, or autonomous measurements, these analytical characteristics are especially critical. In this work we compare several different configurations of ISEs to be deployed for monitoring in extreme environments, and present a novel configuration to improve performance. In particular we compare a polymeric hydrogel‐based ISE, used previously in the Wet Chemistry Lab on the Phoenix Mars Lander, with three variations of solid supported nanoporous carbon‐based ISEs. The symmetric membrane (SM) solid contact ISE (SM‐SC‐ISE) shows promise in overcoming many of the analytical problems encountered with hydrogel and solid‐state devices. The results indicate that sensors based on the SM configuration provide improvements in both stability, and most importantly reproducibility, over other existing SC‐ISEs. Future work will continue testing the SM configuration for use in a variety of extreme environments, including continuous monitoring and in‐situ analyses in extraterrestrial environments.
An Electroanalytical Approach to Brimonidine at Boron Doped Diamond Electrode Based on Its Extensive Voltammetric Study
Authors: Radulović Valentina , Aleksić Mara M. , Agbaba Danica , Kapetanović Vera
Published: November 2012

An extensive electrochemical study of brimonidine at boron doped diamond electrode (BDDE) was done by applying cyclic voltammetry (CV) and square‐wave voltammetry (SWV) in sulfuric acid of different concentrations (pH ranged from 0.6 to 1.6), and in BR buffer (pH ranged from 2.0 to 9.0). It was found that the reduction of brimonidine occurred in a one‐step quasi‐reversible mechanism, involving the transfer of two electrons and two protons. The reduction process took place at the quinoxaline ring and the corresponding mechanism of reduction was confirmed to be the same as for the other quinoxaline derivatives. The nature of the electrode process was found to be diffusion controlled in acid medium, while in a more alkaline medium a certain degree of adsorption was noticed. Based on this study, two sensitive voltammetric methods, differential pulse (DPV) and square wave (SWV) were developed, fully validated and suggested for rapid electroanalytical determination of low concentrations of brimonidine. The linearity was achieved within the concentration range from 2×10−6 M to 3×10−5 M for DPV (LOD=6.31×10−7 M, LOQ=2.1×10−6 M) and from 5×10−7 M to 1.5×10−5 M for SWV (LOD=1.28×10−7 M, LOQ=4.28×10−7 M). The methods were applied for brimonidine determination in pharmaceutical dosage form, eye drops. The obtained good recoveries suggested these simple and accurate methods for quality control of brimonidine in dosage form. Due to its high sensitivity, the SWV method could be a good alternative for determination of low concentrations of brimonidine, even in biological samples.
Femoral fracture rates after discharge from the hospital to the community
Authors: Rapp Kilian , Cameron Ian D , Becker Clemens , Kleiner Andrea , Eckardt Matthias , König Hans-Helmut , Klenk Jochen
Published: November 2012

Previous studies found that the risk of a femoral fracture in residents newly admitted to nursing homes was highest during the first months after admission and declined thereafter. Many nursing home admissions are preceded by a hospitalization. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze if a similar risk pattern of fall-related fractures could also be observed in community-dwelling people at home after discharge from the hospital. Routine data of more than 690,000 German people aged 65 years and older with more than 2 million hospital discharges were used to calculate fracture rates in the first 6 months after hospitalization, for people discharged to live in the community. Incidence rates of femoral fractures as a function of time since discharge from hospital were analyzed. Analyses were stratified by sex, age, the need for care, and diagnostic groups. For femoral fractures the incidence was highest during the first months after discharge and declined thereafter. This pattern was observed in women and men, in different age-groups, in different diagnostic groups, and in people with and without the need for care. For example, rates for femoral fractures in women declined from 17.4 to 11.0 per 1000 person years over the first 6 months after admission, and in men over the same time period from 8.2 to 4.5 per 1000 person-years, respectively. We conclude that the first weeks at home after discharge from the hospital are associated with an increased risk for femoral fractures. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Gastric cancer epidemiology and risk factors
Authors: Guggenheim Douglas E. , Shah Manish A.
Published: November 2012

Gastric cancer is a prevalent yet heterogeneous disease. From diet and lifestyle to genetics and ethnicity, our appreciation of the complexity of gastric cancer has evolved. This review will discuss the epidemiology of gastric cancer focusing on trends across various risk categories. We realize that gastric cancer is not merely a single disease, but rather individual diseases within a single organ—a distinction that will aid our understanding of disease heterogeneity and its significance. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:230–236. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Extent of local invasion and safe resection in cT1–2 tonsil cancer
Authors: Lee Jungbok , Yoon Nara , Choi Sung Yong , Moon Jeong‐hwan , Chung Man Ki , Son Young‐Ik , Ko Young‐Hyeh , Jeong Han‐Sin , Baek Chung‐Hwan
Published: November 2012

Background

Although intraoral resection of small‐sized tonsil cancer achieves excellent tumor control, the extent of local invasion and adequate safety margin in resection have not been studied. Thus, we aim to determine the extent of local invasion in terms of mucosal spread and deep infiltration in stage T1–2 tonsil cancer.

Methods

We re‐analyzed the surgical specimens from 49 cT1–2 tonsil cancers. Microscopic tumor cell extension from the tumor gross boundary of specimens was assessed in representative sections of each tumor. We also tested whether local extension correlates with human papilloma virus (HPV) status of tumors.

Results

The extent of microscopic deep invasion from the gross tumor border was 0.52 ± 0.41 mm, which was significantly less than that of mucosal spread (0.83 ± 0.61 mm, P = 0.01) in cT1–2 tonsil cancer. The microscopic deep invasion correlated with tumor size (rho = 0.703, P < 0.001). We found tumor invasion into superior constrictor muscles in 58.1%, no cases of tumor invasion into the deep fascia. In terms of HPV status (genotyping plus p16 staining), there were no differences in microscopic tumor extension.

Conclusion

Our detailed pathologic analyses confirm that an oropharyngectomy including the superior constrictor muscle is an oncologically safe procedure for stage T1–2 tonsil cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:469–473. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tuning Dispersity in Diblock Copolymers Using ARGET ATRP
Authors: Plichta Andrzej , Zhong Mingjiang , Li Wenwen , Elsen Andrea M. , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: November 2012

Poly(methyl acrylate)‐b‐polystyrene with controlled molecular weight distribution of each block was synthesized via activators regenerated by electron transfer atom transfer radical polymerization. Polymers with tunable dispersity, in the range of Mw/Mn 1.32 to 2.0, were achieved by adjusting the concentration of the copper catalyst and reaction temperature, thereby controlling the rate of reversible deactivation reaction as well as the number of monomer units added during each activation cycle. Regardless of the increased dispersity, high chain‐end functionality was retained and the livingness of the macroinitiators was confirmed by chain extension, resulting in diblock copolymers with controlled dispersity in each block. Liquid chromatography under critical conditions was employed to determine if any macroinitiator remained in the final product.
Protective effect of cyanidin‐3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside fraction from mulberry fruit pigment against oxidative damage in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rat bladder
Authors: Ha U‐Syn , Bae Woong‐Jin , Kim Su‐Jin , Yoon Byung‐Il , Jang Hoon , Hong Sung‐Hoo , Lee Ji‐Yeoul , Hwang Seung‐Yeon , Kim Sae‐Woong
Published: November 2012

Aims

To determine whether cyanidin‐3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (C3G) fraction from mulberry fruit pigment has protective effects against bladder dysfunction on streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats

Methods

Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into three groups (n = 12 in each): normal, diabetes (DM), and DM treated with C3G fraction (DM + C3G). The DM and DM + C3G groups received a single injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg) intraperitoneally. Four weeks after the induction of diabetes, the DM + C3G group was treated with daily oral C3G (10 mg/kg) dissolved in water, for 8 weeks. After 12 weeks of streptozotocin injections, rats in each group underwent cystometrography and bladders were used for evaluation of apoptosis and oxidative stress.

Results

The DM group showed a markedly lower maximal intravesical pressure than that observed in the control group, whereas rats in the DM + C3G group showed improved maximum intravesical pressure associated with minimization of apoptosis, and increased levels of Akt and Bad phosphorylation, implying inhibition of pro‐apoptotic stimuli. The level of 8‐hydroxy‐2‐deoxyguanosine, a marker of oxidative stress, was significantly greater in the DM group compared to the control group and it was significantly reduced in the C3G treated group. Immunoblotting revealed a significant decrease in the levels of the superoxide dismutase protein and nerve growth factor in the DM group compared with the control group; however, these proteins were upregulated in the DM + C3G group compared with the DM group.

Conclusions

The study is the first to suggest that C3G fraction have a potency to protect the bladder under conditions of diabetes‐induced oxidative stress. Neurourol. Urodynam. 32: 493–499, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Parental and other factors associated with hydroxyurea use for pediatric sickle cell disease
Authors: Oyeku Suzette O. , Driscoll M. Catherine , Cohen Hillel W. , Trachtman Rebecca , Pashankar Farzana , Mullen Craig , Giardina Patricia J. , Velazco Nerissa , Racine Andrew D. , Green Nancy S.
Published: November 2012

Background

Hydroxyurea (HU) is highly effective treatment for sickle cell disease (SCD). While pediatric use of HU is accepted clinical practice, barriers to use may impede its potential benefit.

Procedure

A survey of parents of children ages 5–17 years with SCD was performed across five institutions to assess factors associated with HU use.

Results

Of the 173 parent responses, 65 (38%) had children currently taking HU. Among parents of children not taking HU, the most commonly cited reasons were that their hematology provider had not offered it, their child was not sufficiently symptomatic and concerns about potential side effects. Even parents of HU users reported widespread concern about effectiveness, long‐term safety, and off‐label use. In bivariate analyses, children's ages, parental demographics such as education level, or travel time to their hematology provider were not correlated with HU use. Bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression revealed three significant factors associated with current HU use: better parental knowledge about its major therapeutic effects (P < 0.001), sickle genotype (P = 0.005), and institution of clinical care (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Pervasive concerns about HU safety exist, even among parents of current users. Varying knowledge among parents appears to be independent of their demographics, and is associated with HU use. Inter‐institutional variability in parental knowledge and drug uptake highlights potentially potent site‐specific influences on likelihood of HU use. Overall, these survey data underscore the need for strategies to bolster parental understanding about benefits of HU and address concerns about its safety. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60: 653–658. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Trajectories of psychological distress after colorectal cancer
Authors: Dunn Jeff , Ng Shu Kay , Holland Jimmie , Aitken Joanne , Youl Pip , Baade Peter D. , Chambers Suzanne K.
Published: November 2012

Objective

Heightened psychological distress after cancer is common but likely highly heterogeneous. This raises potential challenges in how and when to target services; however, data describing longitudinal patterns of distress are limited. This study describes the long term psychological outcomes for colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors and trajectories of adjustment over time.

Methods

A prospective survey of a population‐based sample of 1966 CRC survivors assessed sociodemographic variables, perceived social support and psychological distress, including distress subtypes of anxiety, depression and somatization, at six time points from 5 months to 5 years post‐diagnosis.

Results

Over the 5‐year trajectory, the prevalence of high overall distress ranged between 44% and 32% but was greater for men compared with women (p < 0.001). Four distress trajectory styles within clusters were identified for overall distress and for each distress subtype with a constant low distress group providing the basis for comparison. Higher distress trajectories varied for overall distress and distress subtypes but were generally differentiated by gender, younger age, lower education, poor socioeconomic advantage, late disease stage and poor social support.

Conclusions

For global distress, by comparison with women, men with CRC are vulnerable to distress, with men who are younger and with low education and poor social support being a priority for targeted intervention. While distress screening early in the cancer experience will identify those with a constant high distress trajectory, others with late emerging distress or caseness may be missed. On this basis, distress screening through the illness trajectory into long term survivorship seems warranted.

Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of reductions in biomass fuel exposure on symptoms of sleep apnea in children living in the peruvian andes: A preliminary field study
Authors: Castañeda Jacqueline L. , Kheirandish‐Gozal Leila , Gozal David , Accinelli Roberto A. ,   The Pampa Cangallo Instituto de Investigaciones de la Altura Research Group
Published: November 2012

Background

Multiple studies have evaluated the prevalence of sleep apnea in pediatric populations. Although environmental exposures to cigarette smoke (ECS) increase the risk of habitual snoring, no studies have thus far examined the potential contribution of indoor pollution in children.

Objective

To determine the frequency of symptoms associated with sleep apnea in children exposed to traditional wood‐burning stoves to open fire, and assess whether symptoms subside following implementation of improved less environmentally contaminating stoves.

Methods and Materials

Residents of the communities of Chucllapampa, Sayhuapata, and Alparcuna in Cangallo province, department of Ayacucho, Peru were surveyed on two occasions within 12 months before and after the installation of an improved Inkawasi wood stove. The frequency of symptoms associated with sleep apnea was assessed in all children <15 years of age using a previously validated questionnaire.

Results

Parents of 59 children (62.7% males; mean age 7.76 ± 4.2 years) were interviewed representing >97% of the children in those small villages. The most common symptoms included nighttime awakenings, habitual snoring, repetitive movements during sleep, nasal congestion, and sore throat. After implementation of improved stoves in the homes, snoring (52.5% vs. 18.2%, P < 0.0001) nasal congestion (33.9% vs. 1.8%, P < 0.0001), behavioral hyperactivity (28.8% vs. 3.8%, P < 0.002), nighttime awakenings (42.4% vs. 1.7%, P < 0.0001), sore throat (38.2% vs. 5.5% P < 0.0001), breathing through the mouth during the day (33.9% vs. 1.8%, P < 0.001), daytime sleepiness (21.1% vs. 1.8%, P < 0.003), and falling asleep at school (14.6% vs. 0%, P < 0.03) were all significantly improved.

Conclusions

Children exposed to traditional biomass fuel stoves had a higher frequency of symptoms related to sleep apnea, which decrease with improvements in biomass pollution. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:996–999. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kisspeptin‐10 induces dose dependent degeneration in prepubertal rat prostate gland
Authors: Ramzan Faiqah , Qureshi Irfan Zia , Ramzan Muhammad , Ramzan Muhammad Haris , Ramzan Faiza
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Kisspeptin peptides mediate their actions through the GnRH loop system. How kisspeptins affect prostate gland in prepubertal male mammals remains elusive.

METHODS

To address this kisspeptin was administered as subchronic (12 days) twice daily i.p. dose at three different dosage regimens: 10 pg, 1 ng and 1 µg, to prepubertal male Sprague–Dawley rats (PND 35). Control rats were maintained in parallel. At the end of the experiment prostate gland was dissected out and processed for light and electron microscopy. DNA damage was also estimated by DNA ladder assay and DNA fragmentation assay.

RESULTS

Prostate weights decreased significantly (P < 0.05) at 1 µg treatment dose of kisspeptin. The epithelial height of secretory acini of prostate decreased at 10 pg (P < 0.05), 1 ng, and 1 µg doses (P < 0.001). Histomorphology and ultrastructure demonstrated, decrease in epithelial cell height, epithelial folding and dilatation of the organelles with kisspeptin treatment. Percent DNA damage to the prostatic tissue was 20.74 ± 2.18, 43.60 ± 2.39, and 58.18 ± 2.59 at 10 pg, 1 ng and 1 µg doses, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The study reveals that continuous administration of kisspeptin does not lead to an early maturation but instead severe degeneration of prepubertal prostate gland. Prostate 73: 690–699, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative experimental study of full‐scale H‐subframe using a new industrialized building system and monolithic reinforced concrete beam‐to‐column connection
Authors: Moghadasi Mostafa , Marsono Abdul Kadir
Published: November 2012

Industrialized building system (IBS) is a construction process that uses techniques, products, components or building systems that involve prefabricated components and on‐site installation. The structural behaviour of a prefabricated frame structure is widely affected by the specifications of the beam‐to‐column connection. The understanding on the real behaviour of a connection can be assessed by conducting full‐scale experimental tests. In this study, a new IBS hybrid steel–concrete connection in a full‐scale H‐subframe under monotonic loading is investigated. This innovative connection system, consists of precast concrete beam‐and‐column elements with embedded steel end connectors, is patented as Smart IBS. This paper reports the testing procedures and results of this semi‐rigid IBS beam‐to‐column connection to obtain the important attributes of the connection as well as its comparison with monolithic cast‐in‐place reinforced concrete model. The height of both H‐subframes is 3.3 m while the free length of the beam is 3.2 m. The incremental loads were applied as two point loads in one‐third and two‐third of the beam length. The characteristic relationships of the connection such as load to mid‐span deflection, strength, stiffness, ductility, failure modes and crack patterns are studied and compared between both structural systems. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Landslide‐facilitated species diversity in a beech‐dominant forest
Authors: Seiwa Kenji , Miwa Yoshiko , Akasaka Shigetoshi , Kanno Hiroshi , Tomita Mizuki , Saitoh Tomoyuki , Ueno Naoto , Kimura Megumi , Hasegawa Yoichi , Konno Miki , Masaka Kazuhiko
Published: November 2012

To evaluate the extent to which landslides affect community dynamics and consequent species diversity in a beech‐dominated forest, differences in the composition and size structure of tree species were compared between landslide and adjacent stable (control) stands. Demography and changes in size were compared between the two stands over a 5‐year period about 60 years after a landslide. In the control stand, replacement occurred even amongst late‐successional species, with beech (Fagus crenata)—the most dominant species—increasing in relative abundance. In the landslide stand, very few large individuals of late‐successional species occurred, whereas large individuals of early‐successional species occurred only in the landslide stand. The traits indicate that the landslide strongly facilitated species diversity, not only by reducing the dominance of late‐successional species, but also by promoting recruitment of early‐successional species. However, new recruitment of early‐successional species was inhibited in the landslide stand, although we observed succeeding regeneration and subsequent population growth of late‐successional species there. As a result, the relative dominance of late‐successional species increased with succession after the landslide, thus decreasing future species diversity. In beech‐dominant forest landscapes in Japan that include communities with different developmental stages, the mosaic of serial stages may facilitate species diversity after a landslide.
Computing multicast trees in dynamic networks and the complexity of connected components in evolving graphs
Authors: Bhadra Sandeep , Ferreira Afonso
Published: November 2012

Future Internet technologies and the deployment of mobile and nomadic services enable complex communications networks, that have a highly dynamic behavior. This naturally engenders route-discovery problems under changing conditions over these networks, but the temporal variations in the topology of dynamic networks are not effectively captured in a classical graph model. In this paper, we use evolving graphs, which help capture the dynamic characteristics of such networks, in order to compute multicast trees with minimum overall transmission time for a class of wireless mobile dynamic networks. We first show that computing different types of strongly connected components in evolving digraphs is NP-Hard, and then propose a polynomial-time algorithm to build all rooted directed Minimum Spanning Trees in strongly connected dynamic networks. These results open new avenues for the implementation of Internet spanning-tree based protocols over highly dynamic network infrastructures.
Corporate sponsorships may hurt nonprofits: Understanding their effects on charitable giving
Authors: Bennett Christine M. , Kim Hakkyun , Loken Barbara
Published: November 2012

While prior research suggests that corporate sponsorship can positively affect consumers' perceptions of sponsors, little research to date has investigated the impact of such sponsorships on an individual's willingness to support nonprofits. This paper investigates the psychological processes that underlie whether and how corporate sponsorship impacts an individual's willingness to support nonprofit organizations and suggests that unintended negative outcomes may emerge. Specifically, results from five studies suggest that exposure to sponsorship information can reduce prospective donors' willingness to support a nonprofit because people believe that their individual contributions will matter less. In addition, this research identifies a potential mechanism (i.e., donor‐company identification) that can mitigate these negative effects.
Initial Assessment of the Ability of Ivermectin to Kill Ixodes scapularis and Dermacentor variabilis Ticks Feeding on Humans
Authors: Sheele Johnathan M. , Byers Peter A. , Sonenshine Daniel E.
Published: November 2012

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine Ixodes scapularis and Dermacentor variabilis tick mortality when fed on humans who have consumed 400 μg/kg oral ivermectin.

Methods

Six study subjects, 3 in each group, were randomly assigned to receive either 400 μg/kg ivermectin or placebo in a blinded manner. After consuming either ivermectin or placebo, each study subject had 2 colostomy bags attached to his or her abdomen. One of the colostomy bags contained 7 I scapularis nymphs and 7 adults. The other colostomy bag contained 7 D variabilis nymphs and 7 adults. Tick mortality was recorded over the next 24 hours.

Results

Fifty-five percent (6 of 11) of the attached I scapularis nymphs exposed to ivermectin had morbidity (3 of 11) or died (3 of 11), compared with 0% morbidity and mortality in the 2 I scapularis nymphs that attached in the placebo group. No I scapularis adults or D variabilis nymphs attached to feed. Among D variabilis adults that attached to feed, there was a 0% mortality rate for both the placebo group (0 of 6) and the ivermectin group (0 of 8).

Conclusions

We demonstrate a novel method to confine ticks to human subjects to study tick-borne diseases. While there was a trend toward I scapularis morbidity and mortality in the ivermectin arm, the low number of ticks that attached in the placebo group limited our analysis. Most ticks began feeding in the last 12 hours of the experiment, significantly limiting their exposure to ivermectin. Ivermectin does not cause early death in D variabilis adults.
A Short History of Ireland
Authors: Ranelagh John O'Beirne
Published: November 2012

This third edition of John O'Beirne Ranelagh's classic history of Ireland incorporates contemporary political and economic events as well as the latest archaeological and DNA discoveries. Comprehensively revised and updated throughout, it considers Irish history from the earliest times through the Celts, Cromwell, plantations, famine, Independence, the Omagh bomb, peace initiatives, and financial collapse. It profiles the key players in Irish history from Diarmuid MacMurrough to Gerry Adams and casts new light on the events, North and South, that have shaped Ireland today. Ireland's place in the modern world and its relationship with Britain, the USA and Europe is also examined with a fresh and original eye. Worldwide interest in Ireland continues to increase, but whereas it once focused on violence in Northern Ireland, the tumultuous financial events in the South have opened fresh debates and drawn fresh interest. This is a new history for a new era.
Modelling Turbulence in Engineering and the Environment
Authors: Hanjalić Kemal , Launder Brian
Published: November 2012

Modelling transport and mixing by turbulence in complex flows is one of the greatest challenges for CFD. This highly readable volume introduces the reader to a level of modelling that respects the complexity of the physics of turbulent flows – second-moment closure. Following introductory chapters providing essential physical background, the book examines in detail the processes to be modelled, from fluctuating pressure interactions to diffusive transport, from turbulent time and length scales to the handling of the semi-viscous region adjacent to walls. It includes extensive examples ranging from fundamental homogeneous flows to three-dimensional industrial or environmental applications. This book is ideal for CFD users in industry and academia who seek expert guidance on the modelling options available, and for graduate students in physics, applied mathematics and engineering who wish to enter the world of turbulent flow CFD at the advanced level.
Modern Statistical Methods for Astronomy
Authors: Feigelson Eric D. , Babu G. Jogesh
Published: November 2012

Modern astronomical research is beset with a vast range of statistical challenges, ranging from reducing data from megadatasets to characterizing an amazing variety of variable celestial objects or testing astrophysical theory. Linking astronomy to the world of modern statistics, this volume is a unique resource, introducing astronomers to advanced statistics through ready-to-use code in the public domain R statistical software environment. The book presents fundamental results of probability theory and statistical inference, before exploring several fields of applied statistics, such as data smoothing, regression, multivariate analysis and classification, treatment of nondetections, time series analysis, and spatial point processes. It applies the methods discussed to contemporary astronomical research datasets using the R statistical software, making it invaluable for graduate students and researchers facing complex data analysis tasks. A link to the author's website for this book can be found at www.cambridge.org/msma. Material available on their website includes datasets, R code and errata.