bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nasty visions: Violent spectacle in contemporary British horror cinema
Authors: Walker Johnny
Published: July 2012

This article examines the ways in which violent international horror films of the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s – the kinds of films once banned as 'video nasties' in Britain – have impacted on the creative directions of British film-makers today. Using three case studies,
Creep (2004), The Last Horror Movie (2003) and The Devil's Chair (2007), I draw upon the significance that new British horror's violent spectacle may hold for the British cultural past and present, and consider how its graphic aesthetic correlates/conflicts with broader
issues surrounding international horror cinema's production and reception. Acknowledging the recent American phenomenon of torture porn, I display how certain British film-makers, themselves fans of the genre, utilize their fan appreciation to recall significant international texts that have
a historical weight that resonates with the social unease that followed the introduction of VHS into Thatcherite Britain. In doing so, I offer a counter-argument to those who suggest that contemporary British horror cinema's taste for violence is simply mimetic of torture porn and, and as
a result, less British in its presentation.
Calcium–calmodulin and pH regulate protein tyrosine phosphorylation in stallion sperm
Authors: González-Fernández L , Macías-García B , Velez I C , Varner D D , Hinrichs K
Published: July 2012

The mechanisms leading to capacitation in stallion sperm are poorly understood. The objective of our study was to define factors associated with regulation of protein tyrosine phosphorylation in stallion sperm. Stallion sperm were incubated for 4 h in modified Whitten's media with or without bicarbonate, calcium, or BSA. When sperm were incubated in air at 30×106/ml at initial pH 7.25, protein tyrosine phosphorylation was detected only in medium containing 25 mM bicarbonate alone; calcium and BSA inhibited phosphorylation. Surprisingly, this inhibition did not occur when sperm were incubated at 10×106/ml. The final pH values after incubation at 30×106and 10×106sperm/ml were 7.43±0.04 and 7.83±0.07 (mean±s.e.m.) respectively. Sperm were then incubated at initial pH values of 7.25, 7.90, or 8.50 in either air or 5% CO2. Protein tyrosine phosphorylation increased with increasing final medium pH, regardless of the addition of bicarbonate or BSA. An increase in environmental pH was observed when raw semen was instilled into the uteri of estrous mares and retrieved after 30 min (from 7.47±0.10 to 7.85±0.08), demonstrating a potential physiological role for pH regulation of capacitation. Sperm incubated in the presence of the calmodulin (CaM) inhibitor W-7 exhibited a dose-dependent increase in protein tyrosine phosphorylation, suggesting that the inhibitory effect of calcium was CaM mediated. These results show for the first time a major regulatory role of external pH, calcium, and CaM in stallion sperm protein tyrosine phosphorylation.
Nutrition and self-care practices of patients with chronic Metabolic Syndrome: a qualitative study
Authors: Vieira Carla Maria , Chvatal Vera Lúcia Soares , Cordeiro Silvia Nogueira , Turato Egberto Ribeiro
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVE: To analyze subjective aspects of eating habits and self-care of patients living with chronic symptoms linked to metabolic syndrome. METHODS: A clinical and qualitative (exploratory, non-experimental) study, conducted with an intentionally small sample of nine patients in treatment at an outpatient endocrinology clinic of a university hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. The sample was closed when data saturation occurred. The in-depth interviews were conducted with a psychodynamic orientation toward the conduct of dialogues. The categorization of the discourse was developed through content analysis. The psychodynamic approach provided a theoretical reference complemented by social anthropology. RESULTS: Eating habits have been revealed as mediators of autonomy and as a source of vulnerability in the process of coping with chronic illness. Reception and understanding of the psychological and cultural aspects of food are needed in treatment faced with the difficulty of establishing changes in eating behavior. CONCLUSION: This is a contribution of an interdisciplinary approach that values listening subjectivity during treatment.
Synthesis of new polyurethanes from vegetable oil by thiol-ene coupling
Authors: Caillol Sylvain , Desroches Myriam , Carlotti Stéphane , Auvergne Rémi , Boutevin Bernard
Published: July 2012

Soybean vegetable oil was functionalized in a single step by addition of mercaptan with hydroxyl functions by thermal thiol-ene coupling. The synthesized biobased polyol was analyzed by nuclear magnetic resonance, titrations, size exclusion chromatography, and mass analyses to precisely determine its average functionality, thus allowing the use of the mixture of products without purification. This polyol was added to a prepolymer of 4, 4’-diisocyanate diphenylmethylene (MDI) with a ratio OH/NCO of 1, to synthesize partially bio-based polyurethane by step growth polymerization. The synthesized polyurethane was compared to polyurethane obtained from a commercial polyether polyol polyester, named desmophen 1150. Mixtures of these polyols were made to optimize the properties of the materials obtained. Polymerization was monitored by rheology. Polyurethanes were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, shore hardness, and tensile tests at different temperatures to determine their thermal and mechanical properties. Different materials present the characteristics of soft and ductile elastomers with thermal stability of polyurethanes.
6-Phosphogluconate Dehydrogenase: A Target for Drugs in African Trypanosomes
Authors: Hanau Stefania , Rinaldi Eliana , Dallocchio Franco , Gilbert Ian H. , Dardonville Christophe , Adams Margaret J. , Gover Sheila , Barrett Michael P.
Published: July 2012

New drugs are urgently required for Human African Trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), a disease which has re-emerged as a major health threat in Sub-Saharan Africa. The third enzyme of the pentose phosphate pathway, 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, has been shown to be a good target for drugs. The enzyme is essential to the trypanosomes that causes sleeping sickness and structural differences when compared to its mammalian counterpart allow for selective inhibition. Three series of inhibitors have been designed, these include phosphorylated carbohydrate substrate and transition state analogues, noncarbohydrate substrate analogues and also triphenylmethane-based compounds. All have shown selective inhibition of the trypanosomal 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase and representatives of each have trypanocidal activity.
Neoliberalism is Bad for Our Health
Authors: Mooney Gavin
Published: July 2012

This paper examines some of the concerns that arise from the impact of neoliberalism on health and health care. It also examines the way that global institutions such as the World Health Organization and the World Trade Organization, having been captured by neoliberalism, fail to act decisively to reduce poverty and inequality and thereby do all too little to promote population health at a global level. The paper argues for a greater community focus, with health care systems being seen more as social institutions and placing more power over decision making in the hands of a critically-informed citizenry.
The Politics of Avoidable Blindness in Latin America—Surgery, Solidarity, and Solutions: The Case of Misión Milagro
Authors: Zakrison Tanya L. , Armada Francisco , Rai Nanky , Muntaner Carles
Published: July 2012

Avoidable blindness, especially when caused by cataracts, is a disease primarily of the economically disadvantaged sectors of the population. With a focus on Latin America and the Caribbean, this paper focuses on the program Misión Milagro within its historical, political, and economic contexts. This initiative, led by the governments of Cuba and Venezuela, covers close to 35 countries across Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia, and Africa. It is well-known throughout Latin America as close to 2 million patients have undergone free screening, corrective surgery, and rehabilitation since its inception in 2004. Misión Milagro shows that implementation of a massive initiative to curb avoidable blindness caused by cataracts in a relatively short time is feasible. The program is also built upon a unique model of international cooperation, which stresses social objectives and solidarity rather than hegemonic international initiatives built on commercial relationships. It also provides elements that could be applied to other public health issues of global or national relevance, not only to other low-middle-income countries, but also to high-income countries such as Canada.
Speculation on Commodities Futures Markets and Destabilization of Global Food Prices: Exploring the Connections
Authors: Ghosh Jayati , Heintz James , Pollin Robert
Published: July 2012

In December 2010, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization's Food Price Index surpassed its previous peak of June 2008, and prices remained at this level through September 2011. This pattern is creating justified fears of a renewal or intensification of the global food crisis. This paper reviews arguments and evidence to inform debates on how to regulate commodity futures markets in the face of such price volatility and sustained high prices. We focus on the relationship between market liquidity and price patterns in asset markets in general and in commodities futures markets in particular, as well as the relationship between spot and futures market prices for food. We find strong evidence supporting the need to limit huge increases in trading volume on futures markets through regulations. We find that arguments opposing regulation are not supported. We find no support for the claim that liquidity in futures markets stabilizes prices at “fundamental” values or that spot market prices are free of any significant influence from futures markets. Given these results, the most appropriate position for regulators is precautionary: they should enact and enforce policies capable of effectively dampening excessive speculative trading on the commodities markets for food.
Ditching the Single-Payer System in the National Health Service: How the English Department of Health is Learning the Wrong Lessons from the United States
Authors: Reynolds Lucy , Gerada Clare , McKee Martin
Published: July 2012

Reforms to the British National Health Service introduce major changes to how health care will be delivered. The core elements include the creation of new purchaser organizations, Clinical Commissioning Groups, which unlike their predecessors will be able to recruit and reject general practices and their patients without geographical restriction. The Clinical Commissioning Groups are to transition from statutory bodies to freestanding organizations, with most of their functions privatized and an increasingly privatized system of provision. In this paper, we explore the likely consequences of these proposals, drawing in particular on the experience of managed care organizations in the United States, whose approach has influenced the English proposals extensively. We argue that the wrong lessons are being learned and the English reforms are likely to fundamentally undermine the principles on which the British National Health Service was founded.
Calcium Builds Strong Bones, and More Is Better—Correct? Well, Maybe Not
Authors: Jamal Sophie A. , Moe Sharon M.
Published: July 2012

Calcium supplementation has been considered the gold standard therapy for osteoporosis in the general population. It is given in both the placebo and treatment groups of trials evaluating antifracture efficacy of new therapies. Similarly, calcium-based phosphate binders have been considered the gold standard comparator for all new phosphate binders. However, large randomized trials demonstrate conflicting data on the antifracture efficacy of calcium supplementation, particularly in high doses, in patients with osteoporosis without CKD. In addition, recent data suggest an increased risk for cardiovascular events. These new studies raise safety concerns for the general approach with calcium supplementation and binders. This review describes recent data on the adverse effects of calcium supplementation for osteoporosis and how these new data should affect the strategy for phosphate binder use in CKD.
Equivariant degree of convex-valued maps applied to set-valued BVP
Authors: Dzedzej Zdzisław
Published: July 2012

An equivariant degree is defined for equivariant completely continuous multivalued vector fields with compact convex values. Then it is applied to obtain a result on existence of solutions to a second order BVP for differential inclusions carrying some symmetries.
The Scope for Reducing Emissions from Forestry and Agriculture in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Börner Jan , Wunder Sven
Published: July 2012

Reducing emissions from agriculture, forestry, and other land uses is considered an essential ingredient of an effective strategy to mitigate global warming. Required changes in land use and forestry, however, often imply foregoing returns from locally more attractive resource use strategies. We assess and compare the prospects of mitigating climate change through emission reductions from forestry and agriculture in the Brazilian Amazon. We use official statistics, literature, and case study material from both old and new colonization frontiers to identify the scope for emission reductions, in terms of potential additionality, opportunity costs, technological complexity, transaction costs, and risks of economic and environmental spillover effects. Our findings point to a comparative advantage in the Brazilian Amazon of forest conservation-based over land-use modifying mitigation options, especially in terms of higher potential additionality in emission reductions. Low-cost mitigation options do exist also in use-modifying agriculture and forestry, but tend to be technologically complex thus requiring more costly intervention schemes. Our review points to a series of regional development deficits that may come to hamper attempts to tap into the large-scale climate change mitigation potential often associated with the Amazon. Low-hanging fruits for mitigation do exist, but must be carefully identified based on the performance indicators we discuss.
Potential Range Expansion of Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica Thunb.) in Southern U.S. Forestlands
Authors: Wang Hsiao-Hsuan , Wonkka Carissa L. , Grant William E. , Rogers William E.
Published: July 2012

Japanese honeysuckle is one of the most aggressive invasive vines in forestlands of the southern United States. We analyzed field data collected by the U.S. Forest Service to identify potential determinants of invasion and to predict likelihood of further invasion under a variety of possible management strategies. Results of logistic regression, which classified 74% of the field plots correctly with regard to species presence and absence, indicated probability of invasion is correlated positively with adjacency to water bodies, temperature, site productivity, species diversity, and private land ownership, and is correlated negatively with slope, stand age, artificial regeneration, distance to the nearest road, and fire disturbance. Habitats most at risk to further invasion under current conditions occur throughout Mississippi, stretching northward across western Tennessee and western Kentucky, westward across southern Arkansas, eastward across north-central Alabama, and also occur in several counties scattered within Virginia. Invasion likelihoods could be increased by global climate change and reduced most by conversion to public land ownership, followed by artificial regeneration, and fire disturbance. While conversion of land ownership may not be feasible, this result suggests the opportunity for decreasing the likelihood of invasions on private lands via using selected management practices.
Association Study of Genes Associated to Asthma in a Specific Environment, in an Asthma Familial Collection Located in a Rural Area Influenced by Different Industries
Authors: Morin Andréanne , Brook Jeffrey R. , Duchaine Caroline , Laprise Catherine
Published: July 2012

Eight candidate genes selected in this study were previously associated with gene-environment interactions in asthma in an urban area. These genes were analyzed in a familial collection from a founder and remote population (Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean; SLSJ) located in an area with low air levels of ozone but with localized areas of relatively high air pollutant levels, such as sulphur dioxide, when compared to many urban areas. Polymorphisms (SNPs) were extracted from the genome-wide association study (GWAS) performed on the SLSJ familial collection. A transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) was performed using the entire family sample (1,428 individuals in 254 nuclear families). Stratification according to the proximity of aluminium, pulp and paper industries was also analyzed. Two genes were associated with asthma in the entire sample before correction (CAT and NQO1) and one was associated after correction for multiple analyses (CAT). Two genes were associated when subjects were stratified according to the proximity of aluminium industries (CAT and NQO1) and one according to the proximity of pulp and paper industries (GSTP1). However, none of them resisted correction for multiple analyses. Given that the spatial pattern of environmental exposures can be complex and inadequately represented by a few stationary monitors and that exposures can also come from sources other than the standard outdoor air pollution (e.g., indoor air, occupation, residential wood smoke), a new approach and new tools are required to measure specific and individual pollutant exposures in order to estimate the real impact of gene-environment interactions on respiratory health.
Analyzing the Contributor Activity of a Volunteered Geographic Information Project — The Case of OpenStreetMap
Authors: Neis Pascal , Zipf Alexander
Published: July 2012

The OpenStreetMap (OSM) project, founded in 2004, has gathered an exceptional amount of interest in recent years and counts as one of the most impressive sources of Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI) on the Internet. In total, more than half a million members had registered for the project by the end of 2011. However, while this number of contributors seems impressive, questions remain about the individual contributions that have been made by the project members. This research article contains several studies regarding the contributions by the community of the project. The results show that only 38% (192,000) of the registered members carried out at least one edit in the OSM database and that only 5% (24,000) of all members actively contributed to the project in a more productive way. The majority of the members are located in Europe (72%) and each member has an activity area whose size may range from one soccer field up to more than 50 km2. In addition to several more analyses conducted for this article, predictions will be made about how this newly acquired knowledge can be used for future research.
Isolation and Characterization of Microsatellite Markers in Brown Planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens Stål)
Authors: Jing Shengli , Zhou Xi , Yu Hangjin , Liu Bingfang , Zhang Chunxiao , Wang Shuzhen , Peng Xinxin , Zhu Lili , Ding Yi , He Guangcun
Published: July 2012

Brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens Stål) (Homoptera: Delphacidae) is an economically important pest on rice. In this study, 30 polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed from N. lugens genomic libraries using the method of Fast Isolation by AFLP of Sequence Containing Repeats (FIASCO). Polymorphism of each locus was detected in 48 individuals from two natural populations. These microsatellite loci revealed 2 to 18 alleles, and the expected and observed heterozygosities ranged from 0.042 to 0.937 and from 0.042 to 0.958, respectively. These markers will be useful for the future study of this agricultural pest in population genetics and molecular genetics.
Shoulder Ultrasonography: Performance and Common Findings
Authors: Gaitini Diana
Published: July 2012

Ultrasound (US) of the shoulder is the most commonly requested examination in musculoskeletal US diagnosis. Sports injuries and degenerative and inflammatory processes are the main sources of shoulder pain and functional limitations. Because of its availability, low cost, dynamic examination process, absence of radiation exposure, and ease of patient compliance, US is the preferred mode for shoulder imaging over other, more sophisticated, and expensive methods. Operator dependence is the main disadvantage of US examinations. Use of high range equipment with high resolution transducers, adhering to a strict examination protocol, good knowledge of normal anatomy and pathological processes and an awareness of common pitfalls are essential for the optimal performance and interpretation of shoulder US. This article addresses examination techniques, the normal sonographic appearance of tendons, bursae and joints, and the main pathological conditions found in shoulder ultrasonography.
Uterine Cervical Malignancy: Diagnostic Accuracy of MRI with Histopathologic Correlation
Authors: Shweel Mohammed A. , Abdel-Gawad Enas A. , Abdel-Gawad Ehab Ali , Abdelghany Hosny S. , Abdel-Rahman Alshimaa M. , Ibrahim Emad M.
Published: July 2012

Objective:

Cervical cancer is the third most common malignancy in women worldwide. Accurate staging of the disease is crucial in planning the optimal treatment strategy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the assessment of extension and staging of cervical malignancy in correlation with histopathologic examination.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty females with untreated pathologically proven uterine cervical carcinoma were included in this prospective study. The patients were 40 - 65 years of age and their average age was 45 years. All patients were subjected to routine clinical staging workup and underwent MRI for preoperative staging. Preoperative MRI findings were reviewed and compared with the final pathological staging that is the Gold Standard of reference.

Results:

Histopathologic examination established that of the 30 tumors, 22 (73.3%) were squamous cell carcinoma. According to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging criteria, 2/30 patients (6.6%) were stage IB, 12/30 (40.3%) were IIA, 8/30 were IIB (26.6%), and 8/30 (26.6%) were IVA. MRI had a sensitivity of 100% and specificity 85.7% in the detection of parametrial infiltration, and a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 90% in the detection of vaginal infiltration. It was sensitive (100%) and specific (100%) in detecting tumor extension to the stroma, urinary bladder, and rectum. Pathological examination demonstrated stage IB cervical carcinoma in 2/30 patients (6.6%), stage IIA disease in 10/30 patients (33.3%), stage IIB in 6/30 patients (20%), and stage IV disease in 8/30 patients (26.6%). MRI features demonstrated stage IB in 2/30 patients (6.6%), stage IIA disease in 12/30 patients (40%), stage IIB in 8/30 patients (26.6%), and stage IV disease in 8/30 patients (26.6%). MRI staging of cervical carcinoma was in concordance with histopathologic staging in stages IB and IVA and over-staging in IIA and IIB stages.

Conclusion:

MRI is an optimal non-invasive modality for preoperative staging of uterine cervical malignancy, and crucial in subsequent more accurate treatment planning.
The influence of the new ECMWF Ensemble Prediction System resolution on wind power forecast accuracy and uncertainty estimation
Authors: Alessandrini S. , Sperati S. , Pinson P.
Published: July 2012

Abstract. The importance of wind power forecasting (WPF) is nowadays commonly recognized because it represents a useful tool to reduce problems of grid integration and to facilitate energy trading. If on one side the prediction accuracy is fundamental to these scopes, on the other it has become also clear that a reliable estimation about their uncertainty is paramount. In fact prediction accuracy is unfortunately not constant and can depend on the location of a particular wind farm, on the forecast time and on the atmospheric situation. Previous studies indicated that the spread of power forecasts derived from the Ensemble Prediction System (EPS) in use at the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecast (ECMWF) could be used as indicator of a three-hourly, three days ahead, wind power forecast's accuracy. In this paper a new application of the EPS, whose horizontal resolution was increased on January 2010 from T399/T255 (60 km) to T639/T319 (32 km), shows an improvement in the results implying that the power spread has actually enough correlation with the error calculated on the deterministic forecast in order to be used as an accuracy predictor. The periods for this comparison are from January 2008 until October 2008 (T399/T255) and from January 2011 until October 2011 (T639/T319). Moreover we have focused our attention on the influence of the new EPS configuration on the performance of a deterministic WPF conducted with the ensemble mean: the results show that increasing the EPS resolution yields a single-valued WPF whose performance is comparable with that of the new ECMWF deterministic high-resolution meteorological model, whose spatial resolution increased from T799 (25 km) to T1279 (15 km).
A model-based constraint of CO2 fertilisation
Authors: Holden P. B. , Edwards N. R. , Gerten D. , Schaphoff S.
Published: July 2012

Abstract. We derive a constraint on the strength of CO2 fertilisation of the terrestrial biosphere through a "top-down" approach, calibrating Earth System Model parameters constrained only by the post-industrial increase of atmospheric CO2 concentration. We derive a probabilistic prediction for the globally averaged strength of CO2 fertilisation in nature, implicitly net of other limiting factors such as nutrient availability. The approach yields an estimate that is independent of CO2 enrichment experiments and so provides a new constraint that can in principal be combined with data-driven priors. To achieve this, an essential requirement was the incorporation of a Land Use Change (LUC) scheme into the GENIE earth system model, which we describe in full. Using output from a 671-member ensemble of transient GENIE simulations we build an emulator of the change in atmospheric CO2 concentration change over the preindustrial period (1850 to 2000). We use this emulator to sample the 28-dimensional input parameter space. A Bayesian calibration of the emulator output suggests that the increase in Gross Primary Productivity in response of a doubling of CO2 from preindustrial values is likely to lie in the range 11 to 53%, with a most likely value of 28%. The present-day land-atmosphere flux (1990–2000) is estimated at −0.6 GTC yr−1 (likely in the range 0.9 to −2.0 GTC yr−1). The present-day land-ocean flux (1990–2000) is estimated at −2.2 GTC yr−1 (likely in the range −1.6 to −2.8 GTC yr−1). We estimate cumulative net land emissions over the post-industrial period (land use change emissions net of the CO2 fertilisation sink) to be 37 GTC, likely to lie in the range 130 to −20 GTC.
Impact of heat stress on the emissions of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, phenolic BVOC and green leaf volatiles from several tree species
Authors: Kleist E. , Mentel T. F. , Andres S. , Bohne A. , Folkers A. , Kiendler-Scharr A. , Rudich Y. , Springer M. , Tillmann R. , Wildt J.
Published: July 2012

Abstract. Changes in the biogenic volatile organic compound (BVOC) emissions from European beech, Palestine oak, Scots pine, and Norway spruce exposed to heat stress were measured in a laboratory setup. In general, heat stress decreased the de novo emissions of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes and phenolic BVOC. Decreasing emission strength with heat stress was independent of the tree species and whether the de novo emissions being constitutive or induced by biotic stress. In contrast, heat stress induced emissions of green leaf volatiles. It also amplified the release of monoterpenes stored in resin ducts of conifers probably due to heat-induced damage of these resin ducts. The increased release of monoterpenes could be strong and long lasting. But, despite of such strong monoterpene emission pulses, the net effect of heat stress on BVOC emissions from conifers can be an overall decrease. In particular during insect attack on conifers the plants showed de novo emissions of sesquiterpenes and phenolic BVOC which exceeded constitutive monoterpene emissions from pools. The heat stress induced decrease of these de novo emissions was larger than the increased release caused by damage of resin ducts. We project that global change induced heat waves may cause increased BVOC emissions only in cases where the respective areas are predominantly covered with conifers that do not emit high amounts of sesquiterpenes and phenolic BVOC. Otherwise the overall effect of heat stress will be a decrease in BVOC emissions.
STRUCTURE ANALYSES OF SWOLLEN RUBBER–CARBON BLACK SYSTEMS BY USING CONTRAST VARIATION SMALL-ANGLE NEUTRON SCATTERING
Authors: Takenaka Mikihito , Nishitsuji Shotaro , Amino Naoya , Ishikawa Yasuhiro , Yamaguchi Daisuke , Koizumi Satoshi
Published: July 2012

In a previous study [Takenaka et al., Macromolecules 42, 308 (2009)], we have investigated the polymer layers absorbed on silica (Si) particles in rubber–Si systems with the contrast variation small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) method. We have investigated the polymer layers absorbed on carbon black (CB) particles in rubber–CB systems with contrast variation SANS method. The scattering intensities of specimens swollen by the solvents having various scattering length densities were measured. The contrast variation SANS for the specimens yielded partial scattering functions: the scattering function for polymer–polymer correlation SPP(q), the scattering function for CB–CB correlation SCC(q), and the scattering function for polymer–CB correlation SPC(q). The analyses of SCC(q) explored the structures of the aggregates formed by CB particles. The analyses of SPC(q) and SCC(q) clarified the existence of dense polymer layers around CB aggregates. Several characteristic parameters are estimated from the analyses, such as the size of aggregates, the thickness of layers, and the volume fractions of polymer layers and matrix. We found that the adsorption layer around CB aggregates is thicker than that around Si aggregates in rubber–Si systems.
Spatiotemporal Regulation of Chondrogenic Differentiation with Controlled Delivery of Transforming Growth Factor-β1 from Gelatin Microspheres in Mesenchymal Stem Cell Aggregates
Authors: Solorio Loran D. , Dhami Chirag D. , Dang Phuong N. , Vieregge Eran L. , Alsberg Eben
Published: July 2012

The precise spatial and temporal presentation of growth factors is critical for cartilage development, during which tightly controlled patterns of signals direct cell behavior and differentiation. Recently, chondrogenic culture of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) has been improved through the addition of polymer microspheres capable of releasing growth factors directly to cells within cellular aggregates, eliminating the need for culture in transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-containing medium. However, the influence of specific patterns of spatiotemporal growth factor presentation on chondrogenesis within microsphere-incorporated cell systems is unclear. In this study, we examined the effects of altering the chondrogenic microenvironment within hMSC aggregates through varying microsphere amount, growth factor concentration per microsphere, and polymer degradation time. Cartilage formation was evaluated in terms of DNA, glycosaminoglycan, and type II collagen in hMSCs from three donors. Chondrogenesis equivalent to or greater than that of aggregates cultured in medium containing TGF-β1 was achieved in some conditions, with varied differentiation based on the specific conditions of microsphere incorporation. A more spatially distributed delivery of TGF-β1 from a larger mass of fast-degrading microspheres improved differentiation by comparison with delivery from a smaller mass of microspheres with a higher TGF-β1 concentration per microsphere, although the total amount of growth factor per aggregate was the same. Results also indicated that the rate and degree of chondrogenesis varied on a donor-to-donor basis. Overall, this study elucidates the effects of varied conditions of TGF-β1-loaded microsphere incorporation on hMSC chondrogenesis, demonstrating that both spatiotemporal growth factor presentation and donor variability influence chondrogenic differentiation within microsphere-incorporated cellular constructs.
Well‐Defined Functional Linear Aliphatic Diblock Copolyethers: A Versatile Linear Aliphatic Polyether Platform for Selective Functionalizations and Various Nanostructures
Authors: Kwon Wonsang , Rho Yecheol , Kamoshida Kensuke , Kwon Kyung Ho , Jeong Youn Cheol , Kim Jonghyun , Misaka Hideki , Shin Tae Joo , Kim Jehan , Kim Kwang‐Woo , Jin Kyeong Sik , Chang Taihyun , Kim Heesoo , Satoh Toshifumi , Kakuchi Toyoji , Ree Moonhor
Published: July 2012

Low‐temperature anionic ring‐opening homopolymerizations and copolymerizations of two glycidol derivatives (allyl glycidyl ether (AGE) and ethoxyethyl glycidyl ether (EEGE)) are studied using a metal‐free catalyst system, 3‐phenyl‐1‐propanol (PPA) (an initiator) and 1‐tert‐butyl‐4,4,4‐tris(dimethylamino)‐2,2‐bis[tris‐(dimethylamino)phosphoranylidenamino]‐2Λ5,4Λ5‐catenadi(phosphazene) (t‐Bu‐P4) (a promoter) in order to obtain well‐defined functional linear polyethers and diblock copolymers. With the aid of the catalyst system, AGE is found to successfully undergo anionic ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) even at room temperature (low reaction temperature) without any side reactions, producing well‐defined linear AGE‐homopolymer in a unimodal narrow molecular weight distribution. Under the same conditions, EEGE also undergoes polymerization, producing a linear EEGE‐homopolymer in a unimodal narrow molecular‐weight distribution. In this case, however, a side reaction (i.e., chain‐transfer reaction) is found to occur at low levels during the early stages of polymerization. The chemical properties of the monomers in the context of the homopolymerization reactions are considered in the design of a protocol used to synthesize well‐defined linear diblock copolyethers with a variety of compositions. The approach, anionic polymerization via the sequential step feed of AGE and EEGE as the first and second monomers, is found to be free from side reactions at room temperature. Each block of the obtained linear diblock copolymers undergoes selective deprotection to permit further chemical modification for selective functionalization. In addition, thermal properties and structures of the polymers and their post‐modification products are examined. Overall, this study demonstrates that a low‐temperature metal‐free anionic ROP using the PPA/t‐Bu‐P4 catalyst system is suitable for the production of well‐defined linear AGE‐homopolymers and their diblock copolymers with the EEGE monomer, which are versatile and selectively functionalizable linear aliphatic polyether platforms for a variety of post‐modifications, nanostructures, and their applications.
Auditory characteristics and therapeutic effects of enzyme replacement in mouse model of the mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) II
Authors: Hong Sung Hwa , Chu Hosuk , Kim Ki Ryung , Ko Moon Hee , Kwon See Youn , Moon Il Joon , Chung Won‐Ho , Cho Yang‐Sun , Kim Chi‐Hwa , Suh Myung‐Whan , Choi Eun Wha , Sohn Young Bae , Park Sung Won , Kim Se‐Hwa , Cho Sung‐Yoon , Ko Ah‐Ra , Jin Dong‐Kyu
Published: July 2012

Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) II is an X‐linked metabolic disorder caused by dysfunction of iduronate‐2‐sulfatase (I2S). This abnormality causes the progressive accumulation of incompletely degraded glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in the lysosomes. The auditory characteristics of MPS II in mouse models have not been reported. In this study, we evaluated the auditory characteristics of the MPS II in IDS knock‐out (IDS‐KO) mice. In addition, the effect of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) on hearing was studied. The IDS‐KO mice had normal histology of the cochlea and retained good hearing at 7 weeks of age. However, at 17 weeks of age, the hearing thresholds of the IDS‐KO mice were elevated and exudates were found in the middle ear. The hearing thresholds of the enzyme‐treated IDS‐KO (IDS‐ERT) mice were similar to the wild‐type (WT) mice at 17 weeks. Moreover, the microstructure of the inner ear was similar to the IDS‐KO by transmission electron microscopy. The histology findings indicated that the microstructure of the inner ear was similar in comparisons between IDS‐KO and IDS‐ERT mice, even after 10 weeks of treatment. However, the hearing deficits in the MPS II mouse model can be prevented if ERT is started before the onset of hearing impairment. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Growth curves of Egyptian patients with Turner syndrome
Authors: El‐Bassyouni Hala T. , Afifi Hanan H. , Aglan Mona S. , Mahmoud Wael M. , Zaki Moushira E.
Published: July 2012

This study analyzes the body anthropometric measurements in females with Turner syndrome (TS) not treated with recombinant human growth hormone. Height, weight, head circumference, and body mass index (BMI) data were collected from 93 patients. Their ages ranged from 6 months to 24 years (mean 10 ± 4.3 years). Chromosomal analysis revealed: 55 patients with 45,X and 38 patients with mosaic karyotypes. Patients were divided into yearly age groups. Standard growth curves were constructed for these Egyptian Turner syndrome (TS) patients. Mean and standard deviations were estimated across the age groups. When comparing the mean heights of patients to the Egyptian standards, short stature (≤2 SD) was found in 96.8% of patients older than 6 years. Patients' mean weight and BMI were higher than controls. The mean height of the studied Egyptian patients was slightly lower than that of females with TS in UK and European patients. Therefore, local reference values are more appropriate than International standards. The charts presented here can be used to optimize routine healthcare for Egyptian TS patients. The use of growth charts specific for Egyptian TS patients can help to discover early physical developmental delay and suggests the necessity of looking for concomitant diseases affecting growth. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Some philosophical considerations in using mixed methods in library and information science research
Authors: Ma Lai
Published: July 2012

Mixed methods research (MMR) has been described as the third research paradigm that combines qualitative and quantitative research methods. The mixing of research methods requires an epistemological framework that embraces the “reality” uncovered by different research methods. Three formal ontological categories are introduced for deconstructing the polarized view of reality in objectivism and relativism and for differentiating the nature and characteristics of objective, subjective, and normative validity claims as well as the conditions for justifying “objectivity” in social research. The characterization of “information” as objective, subjective, and normative‐evaluative simultaneously demands the study of conditions of information‐related phenomena that may call for mixed methods research in library and information science.
The Influence of the Metal on the Kinetics of Outer Sphere Redox Reactions
Authors: Iwasita T. , Schmickler W. , Schultze J. W.
Published: July 2012

The kinetic parameters of the outer sphere redox couple [Ru(NH3)6]2+/3+ were measured on six different metal electrodes. The reaction rate is independent of the substrate. The significance of these results for the electron transfer theory is discussed, and a new model for adiabatic electron transfer reactions is outlined.
Electrical and Magnetic Properties of the Liquid Tl‐BiTlTe3 System
Authors: Satow Tsuneo , Kanamori Hiroyuki , Uemura Osamu
Published: July 2012

The electrical conductivity, the magnetic susceptibility and the thermoelectric power of the liquid Tl‐BiTlTe3 system are measured as a function of temperature and composition from near the liquidus temperature up to 900 °C. The electrical conductivity of these alloys increases with increasing temperature, which however does not follow a simple Arrhenius type activation process because of a large metallic contribution. The diamagnetic susceptibility of the alloys decreases with increasing temperature, which seems to be mainly due to an increase in paramagnetic
Kinetics of the Reactions of CH2OH Radicals with O2and HO2
Authors: Grotheer Horst‐Henning , Riekert Gottfried , Meier Ulrich , Just Thomas
Published: July 2012

The rate coefficient of the reaction CH2OH + O2+ HO2+ CH2O (1) has been measured by discharge flow mass spectrometry‐technique under first order conditions with excess oxygen at room temperature to bek1= (9. 5 ± 2.5) · 10−12cm3s−1. Reaction (1) is followed by CH2OH + HO2→ products (4). The rate coefficientsk4could be inferred from HO2measurements to be 6 · 10−11cm3s−1, the uncertainty factor being 2.
Energy Distribution and Rotational Alignment in the NO Fragment after Photodissociation of Dimethyinitrosamine
Authors: Dubs Martin , Robert Huber J.
Published: July 2012

The energy distribution within the fragments of dimethylnitrosamine after photodissociation at 363.5 nm is summarized and the equations are given for the determination of the rotational alignment of photofragments detected by two‐photon laser‐induced fluorescence.
Preparation of Samples with High Enrichment in C‐13 by 12CF3I IRMPD
Authors: Cauchetier M. , Croix O. , Luce M. , Tistchenko S.
Published: July 2012

Isotopic concentrations in 13C greater than 90% are obtained in one step by selective multiphoton dissociation of 12CF3I with a CO2 TEA laser as well by static methods (closed cell) and by dynamical methods (continuous flow), iodine being trapped by silver grid. After C2F6 purification, a sample with 90% in 13CF3I has been irradiated again and enriched to 99.93% in 13C with a 40% total yield in 13CF3I, i.e. an enrichment of 130000 in two steps was obtained.
IR‐laser Induced Conformational Intel‐conversions in Low‐temperature Matrices
Authors: Schrems Otto
Published: July 2012

Single photon IR‐laser chemistry has been used to study photorotamerization processes of 2‐fluoroethanol isolated in low‐temperature inert gas matrices by means of FT‐IR spectroscopy. The same technique has been applied successfully for selective interconversions of different conformational forms of hydrogen‐bonded methanol dimers isolated in solid nitrogen.
Laser Induced Osmosis
Authors: De Hemptinne X.
Published: July 2012

Pressure transients are observed in absorbing gases at low pressure in a non‐resonant spectrophone. At very low pressure (transition saturated) the transient is negative on irradiation. Interpretation is given in terms of thermodynamics of laser driven systems. The local value of the partition function of resonant molecules is shwon to be a function of the driving beam's intensity. The law of mass action predicts then accumulation of the resonant particles in the high intensity regions of the beam.
Laser Photolysis ‐ LIF Kinetic Studies of the Reactions of CH3O and CH2CHO with O2 between 300 and 500 K
Authors: Lorenz K. , Rhasa D. , Zellner R. , Fritz B.
Published: July 2012

Rate constants for the reactions (1) CH3O (methoxy) + O2 and (2) CH2CHO (vinoxy) + O2 have been determined between 300 and 500 K using a combined laser photolysis/laser induced fluorescence technique. Whereas reaction (1) is purely bimolecular with k1 = (5.5 ± 2.0) 10−14 exp(−1000 K/T) cm3s, reaction (2) appears to be a recombination process. For p = 130 mbar (M = He) we find k2 = (2.7 ± 1.5) 10−14 exp(668 K/T) cm3s, corresponding to a T−1.8 negative temperature dependence.
Additivity Rule of the Partial Molal Volume. 2. The Role of the Different Packing Efficiencies around Methylene and Methyl Groups of Normal Alkanes
Authors: Yoshimura Y. , Nakahara M.
Published: July 2012

The molecular basis of the additivity rule of the partial molal volume at constant temperature and pressure has been studied for n‐alkanes and it is found that the different packing efficiencies around the methylene and methyl groups play an important role in determining the partial molal volume. The different packing efficiencies have been examined in detail in the crystalline phases and the liquid phase. The methyl group is packed looser than the methylene group except for the triclinic crystal phase, and the temperature and pressure dependence of the packing efficiency of the methyl group is larger than that of the methylene group in the liquid state. The different packing efficiencies have been successfully interpreted in a semimicroscopic manner by taking account of the interfacial tension around the hard core of the solute molecule.
Experimental and Theoretical Studies on the Dielectric Field Effect of an Alamethicin‐like Peptide in a Lipophilic Medium
Authors: Schwarz Gerhard , Walther Peter
Published: July 2012

A special resonance circuit technique is described which can be used to measure even very small changes of the dielectric constant of a poorly conducting liquid as they may be caused by a strong electric field. This is applied to an octanolic solution of trichotoxin A40, an antibiotic peptide which is known to form electrically sensitive pores in bilayer membranes. Experimental results at about 0.6 and 11 MHz, respectively, are reported and discussed in terms of a theoretical analysis based on the classical Debye‐Onsager approach. In particular, the frequency dependence of the normal dielectric saturation has been calculated in order to correct for the finite rate of dipolar orientation. It turns out that in addition to the normal dielectric field effect an anomalous effect occurs. The latter apparently arises from concentration changes of different dipolar species. These changes are attributed to a field induced displacement of the aggregational equilibrium which exists in the system.
Pair Configuration of Maximum Occurrence Probability in Liquid Formic Acid as Determined from Neutron Scattering and Proton Magnetic Relaxation Results
Authors: Bertagnolli H. , Hertz H. G.
Published: July 2012

Intermolecular parts of thex→rFourier transform of the coherent scattering cross section of five isotopically different formic acids are presented and from these data four weighted sums of intermolecular atom‐atom pair distribution functions are determined. Very limited informations about the two (equal) hydrogen‐hydrogen correlation function is also given. From proton magnetic relaxation data available in the literature two possible pair configurations were proposed. From these pairs and one additional one the corresponding sets of intermolecular atomic distances were determined and examined whether these sets lead to agreement with the weighted sums of correlation functions. Agreement was found to be best for a pair with O=C vectors being close to but not exactly parallel, it was concluded that this is the correct molecular pair configuration of maximum occurrence probability.