bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial diversity of internal environment of Johann Gregor Mendel Station, Antarctica
Authors: Ševčíková Alena , Bednářová Jana , Bartáková Sonia , Ševčík Pavel
Published: August 2013

During January and February 2011 two sets of microbiological samples were collected inside the main building of Johann Gregor Mendel station located at the James Ross Island near the coast of Antarctica. The aim was to examine the changes of microbial profile of the antarctic station environment. The first set of samples was collected from the station environment before the staff entry, i.e. after 10 months of quiescent state when nobody was present at the station. The second set of samples was collected from the same places before the Antarctic expedition staff left the station after 45 days of the stay. The cultivation of samples was focused on mesophilic bacteria. Twenty-three strains were obtained from the Set No. 1 and 27 strains were obtained from the Set No. 2. However, 8 strains from each set were not reliably identified by mass spectrometry. Altogether 13 strains of Gram-positive bacteria were identified in the Set. No. 1, while only 7 in the Set No. 2. Contrastingly, Gram-negative bacteria were much more abundant in the Set No. 2 (12 strains) than in the Set No. 1 (2 strains). Bacillus sp. was the most common Gram-positive strain (9 isolations from the first set, 2 isolations from the second set). Pantoea agglomerans was the most common Gram-negative strain (2 isolations from the first set, 7 isolations from the second set). The first experience with the microbial profile of the research station showed that we were able to detect mainly bacteria commonly present in the outer environment that could survive under extreme conditions. We did not isolate any microbes related to human colonisation except of enterococci and Escherichia vulneris. For further investigation of the station environment, it will be necessary to choose alternative way of collection and storage of samples to ensure survival of all present bacteria.
Climatic and ecological characteristics of deglaciated area of James Ross Island, Antarctica, with a special respect to vegetation cover
Authors: Láska Kamil , Barták Miloš , Hájek Josef , Prošek Pavel , Bohuslavová Olga
Published: August 2013

Since 2006, year-round measurements of climatic parameters of characteristic ecosystems of James Ross Island, such as (1) coastal vegetation oases, (2) volcanic mesas have been performed by automatic weather stations. Simultaneously, prospection, classification and mapping of vegetation cover have been made annually within the period of Czech Antarctic expeditions lasting from January to March. In this paper, description of the two typical terrestrial ecosystems, characteristics of their microclimate and overview of vegetation cover are given. Daily and monthly means and extreme values of 2-m air temperature, surface temperature and relative humidity are reported for coastal locations and volcanic mesas (300–400 m a.s.l.). Species composition of lichen and moss flora in coastal and mesa locations is characterized and discussed in relation to local topography and microclimate.
Comparative analysis of temperature courses in Antarctic lakes of different morphology: Study from James Ross Island, Antarctica
Authors: Váczi Peter , Barták Miloš , Nedbalová Linda , Elster Josef
Published: August 2013

Monitoring of physical properties of terrestrial lakes belongs to one of key research activities performed by Czech scientists at James Ross Island. Throughout 2011, water temperature was measured and recorded by dataloggers in 1 h interval in two Antarctic lakes of different size and morphology. The first lake is a large shallow one located in a depression of sedimentary rock (Lachman Lake 1) at the altitude of 10m a.s.l. Lake Dulanek, the second one, is typical small-area water body located on stony glacier surface at the altitude of 220 m a.s.l. Dulanek Lake, thanks to higher altitude, remained frozen for longer period (274 d) of austral winter than Lachman Lake 1 (205 d). Presence of thick snow cover over Dulanek lake during winter period, however, caused higher values of winter minimal temperature (-17.5°C) than those recorded for Lachman lake 1 (several periods below -20.0°C). Mean annual temperature reached -4.6°C and -5.2°C for Lake Dulanek, and Lachman Lake 1, respectively. Shorter summer season accompanied by lower water temperature in Lake Dulanek however, did not bring unfovourable conditions for growth and reproduction of autotrophic organisms. Biomass of autotrophic organisms found in Lake Dulanek was quite high.
Late Cretaceous flora of James Ross Island (Antarctica) – preliminary report
Authors: Kvaček Jiří , Sakala Jakub
Published: August 2013

Fossil plants from Late Cretaceous strata (Hidden Lake Formation and Santa Marta Formation) of James Ross Basin exposed in the northern part of the James Ross Island are preliminary described. Both formations contain plant mega fossils, petrified wood, and charcoalified mesofossils. Fossil plants from the Hidden Lake Formation are represented by leaf impressions of pteridophytes (Microphyllopteris, Delosorus, Lygodium), conifers (Elatocladus, Brachyphyllum, Pagiophyllum, Araucaria, Podozamites vel Lindleycladus), Bennettitales vel Cycadales (Zamites vel Dioonites sp.) and angiosperms (Cinnamomoides, Dicotylophyllum ssp., Proteophyllum, Juglandi-phyllum vel Dicotylophyllum). Fossil wood can be attributed to the very broadly defined morphogenus Antarctoxylon Poole & Cantrill.
Ecophysiological characteristics of the coastal plants in the conditions of the tidal zone on the coasts of Svalbard
Authors: Markovskaya Evgenia , Schmakova Nataliya , Sergienko Liudmila
Published: August 2013

Content of chlorophylls, carotenoids, and flavonoids were determined in leaves of 26 plant species growing in the tidal zone of the Grnfjord coast at the Western Spitsbergen. Species of Ranunculaceae, Polygonaceae, Boraginaceae, Juncaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Cyperaceae, Saxifragaceae, Poaceae families were included in the study. The analyses showed that chlorophyll (Chl) content (chlorophyll a+b) of the investigated species varied from 0.16 to 2.4 mg g-1 of fresh mass, carotenoids varied from 0.1 to 0.7 mg g-1 of fresh mass, and flavonoides ranged from 0.8 to 9.7%. This comparative study aimed to the evaluation of differences in functional activity of photosynthetic apparatus of the dominant species under natural conditions of their habitats on the coastal zone of high tidal seas of the Arctic. Most of the dominant species of the tidal zone had higher values of Chl content and flavanoides. The study showed that plants grown along a transect from the water line through a tidal zone exhibited different ways of adaptation. The differences were found in the contents of photosynthetic pigments, and flavonoids. Besides that, some plants formed special morphological structures of leaves (grey dead vegetative organs and cuticular vax) and growth forms.
Epilithic lichens and their morphological adaptations to the conditions of the White and Barents Seas coast (Russian Arctic)
Authors: Sonina Anzhella V.
Published: August 2013

The main aim of our work was to investigate the biodiversity of coastal lichens, conditions of lichen cover formation, and study the structural and functional adaptations of Lecanora intricata (Ach.) Ach. and L. polytropa (Ehrh. ex Hoffm.) Rabenh. The investigation was carried out during 2008-2012 on cliffs both along the Murmansk (the Barents Sea) coast and the southern and western shores of the White Sea. For the evaluation of species composition, and ecotopic coenotical features of epilithic lichen growing on cliffs, the geobotanical methods have been used. In addition, the anatomical, morphological and biochemical studies of Lecanora intricata and L. polytropa have been made. 91 species have been included in the total list of lichens on the White Sea coast. On the Murmask coast of the Barents Sea, 36 lichen species had revealed. On the coastal territory, the epilithic lichens inhabit the upper littoral and supralittoral zone. The lichen cover is formed by two interacting factors: the water factor (sea) and the terrestrial vegetation. Four lichen zones were distinguished in the all studying territories. They differed by the lichen species composition and effect of the sea. The first lichen’s zone is the intrazonal structure in the complex coastal lichen cover. In Lecanora polytropa and L. intricata, structural and functional features of lichens for adaptation to unstable coastal conditions were identified. The crustose biomorphs were better adapted to temperature and degree of hydration of thalli. Formation of the smallest ascospores is reproductive strategy of epilithic lichens in extreme habitats. High content of usnic acid in the studied lichen thalli allows them to exist in the open areas exposed to solar radiation and provides the biotic regulation that affects the structure of lichen cover. Optimal ratio of algal to fungal components in the thalli of these species is necessary to maintain their life in extreme environments.
Photosynthetic characteristics of three species of the family Plantaginaceae growing on high and low tide coastal areas of the White Sea
Authors: Kosobryukhov Anatoly , Markovskaya Evgeniya , Sergienko Liudmila
Published: August 2013

CO2 gas exchange, transpiration, stomatal conductance, water use efficiency and chlorophyll content were investigated at the leaves of three species of the family Plantaginaceae: Plantago maritima L., Plantago subpolaris Andrejev and Plantago schrenkii C.Koch under natural conditions of the habitat on high and low tide areas of the White Sea’ coasts. The high rate of photosynthesis at saturating CO2 (PNmax) at P. maritima (85.0±4.8 μmol m-2 s-1), as compared to P. subpolaris and P. schrenkii (45.2± 7.5 and 36.9±3.2 μmol m-2 s-1) was caused by high activity of ribulose-1,5-bisphoshate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBPCO), the rate of electron transport, the rate of triose phosphate utilization, TPU), as well as high efficiency of carboxylation. The rates of photosynthesis at ambient concentration of CO2 (PN) at P. maritima were 1.4 and 1.7 times higher compared to P. subpolaris and P. schrenkii. Plants of P. schrenkii are characterized by lower values of stomatal conductance and water use efficiency compared to P. maritima and P. subpolaris. In natural habitat, the limiting factor of CO2 assimilation P. subpolaris is the rate of photosynthetic electron transport, the activity of RuBPCO in P. schrenkii.
Preliminary report on fish diversity at the Prince Gustav Channel, the northern part of the James Ross Island, Antarctica
Authors: Mašová Šárka , Kašparová Eva
Published: August 2013

Notothenioid fish were collected in the coastal part of the James Ross Island (Antarctica) mainly during Austral summer in 2012. In this paper, we report the list of species records and their basic biometric measurements as a reaction to missing ichthyofaunal investigation of this particular area. Collected fishes belong to the families Nototheniidae (Trematomus bernacchii Boulenger, 1902; T. eulepidotus Regan, 1914; T. newnesi Boulenger, 1902; Gobionotothen gibberifrons (Lönnberg, 1905); Notothenia coriiceps Richardson, 1844) and Bathydraconidae (Gymnodraco acuticeps Boulenger, 1902).
Os impactos do complexo petroquímico do Rio de Janeiro sobre o mercado de trabalho formal: uma análise para os anos de 2007 a 2009
Authors: Sardenberg Kamila , Vieira Norberto Martins , Vaillant Ana Rosa de Almeida
Published: August 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho foi acompanhar os impactos ocorridos no mercado de trabalho formal oriundos dos investimentos na área de influência do Complexo Petroquímico do Rio de Janeiro (Comperj). Foram utilizados dados da Relação Anual de Informações Sociais (RAIS) e do Cadastro Geral de Empregados e Demitidos (CAGED), ambos do Ministério de Trabalho e Emprego. A análise dos dados revelou que o setor de serviços foi o maior empregador em termos absolutos na região. Trata-se de um setor bastante heterogêneo, abarcando diversos níveis de escolaridade e faixas de remuneração. O segundo setor com maior número de vínculos ativos no Comperj foi o do comércio, seguido pelo da construção civil. Dessa forma, pode-se perceber que os impactos no mercado de trabalho formal são notórios. Esses resultados apontam para a necessidade de se criarem alternativas que visem a redução das desigualdades entre regiões e promover mudanças estruturais que conduzam a uma melhor distribuição da renda, uma vez que diferenças regionais podem ser geradas por esse empreendimento.
Comparação de tráfego entre interfaces 802.3 e 802.11 utilizando pré-execução para acesso a servidor de terminais através do uso de computadores obsoletos
Authors: Amaral Allan Francisco Forzza , Glazar Jean Eduardo , Demuner Arthur Bof
Published: August 2013

Os computadores doados através dos programas de reciclagem de lixo eletrônico podem ser reaproveitados com o uso do Linux Terminal Server Project (LTSP). Em interfaces com fio, 802.3, este modelo é viável e funcional, mas nem sempre é possível o uso da planta de cabeamento. Uma alternativa é o uso de redes sem fio, 802.11, sobre LTSP. Os parâmetros de uso de redes sem fio sobre LTSP não são conhecidos. Este artigo mostra um estudo comparativo entre interfaces com fio e sem fio usando terminais para acesso ao serviço LTSP. Os resultados mostram configurações viáveis para ambos os tipos de rede, com o uso da banda de rede, uso da capacidade de processamento e memória do servidor e um quadro de comparação da utilização tanto em redes com fio quanto em redes sem fio.
À luz da raça na empresa de petróleo
Authors: Santos Suélly Lima dos , Silva Lidiane
Published: August 2013

Este trabalho aborda a participação dos negros nas plataformas Petrolíferas da Bacia de Campos, propondo uma discussão acerca da dinâmica da inserção do negro nesse mercado. E a partir desta ótica, pensar o racismo e a diversidade no mundo do petróleo nesta região e suas implicações. Quando se trata de questões raciais, neste contexto se percebe que as diferenças não estão na capacidade intelectual e sim nas oportunidades. Entretanto, nada impede que brancos e negros venham construir juntos, com respeito e usufruindo de suas aptidões numa sociedade mais justa a favor da diversidade. As instituições públicas e privadas assumem o desafio de atenuar a discriminação racial e, ao mesmo tempo, procura abraçar a diversidade racial através de ações afirmativas na forma de cotas. Como resultado do artigo, foi detectado um problema de classe social e, não, questão racial.
Os limites da política de seguridade social brasileira frente às demandas dos usuários com leucemia aguda: reflexões do Serviço Social
Authors: Silva Renata Fonseca , Chaves Ana Raquel Mello , Monteiro Márcia Valéria Carvalho
Published: August 2013

O artigo problematiza os limites da Seguridade Social frente às demandas sociais dos usuários com leucemia aguda. O tratamento dessa doença caracteriza-se pela alta complexidade e expõe os sujeitos a uma série de exigências clínicas. Tal condição de tratamento produz demandas que são potencializadas quando os usuários estão inseridos em um contexto atravessado pelas expressões da questão social. Desta forma, constata-se a centralidade das políticas sociais enquanto recurso fundamental para garantia de efetivação do tratamento desses usuários. Entretanto, num contexto de focalização e fragmentação das políticas sociais, verifica-se a retração de seus direitos sociais.
“Razão Antropofágica ou Repertório crítico?": Crítica à “Razão Antropofágica” como fundamento regulador e básico para legitimação de uma tradição crítica nacional
Authors: Freire Márcio
Published: August 2013

Partindo de “leitura atenta” do ensaio “Da razão antropofágica: diálogo e diferença na cultura brasileira” de Haroldo de Campos, este artigo analisa e interpreta as posições de Haroldo de Campos face aos problemas próprios à cultura brasileira expostos em seu ensaio e a validade de sua tese de outra tradição crítica na cultura literária brasileira, oposta ao ponto de vista crítico esboçado na Formação da literatura brasileira, de Antonio Candido.
Effect of Digoxin on the Color Vision Disorder, A Case-Control Study
Authors: Toba Kazemi  , Mohammad Hossien Davari  , Hanie Afrazande
Published: August 2013

Background and Aim: Digoxin is a drug commonly used in order to treat cardiac failure but its use has got different complications including color vision disorder .Regarding the high prevalence of cardiac failure and the role of taking this drug by patients, it was decided to study color vision disorder in patients who take digoxin.
Materials and Methods: The present case-control study was conducted during 2008-2009 in Valli-e-asr hospital in Birjand.The case group consisted of 59 patients having cardiac failure who, at least, had taken oral digoxin for one year. The controls were non-cardiac patients referring to the hospital or were patients’ attendants who did not take digoxin. The controls were matched with the cases with respect to age and sex. Both groups were examined regarding whether they had color vision disorder or not by means of Ishiharatest. Venous blood was derived from all the cases to assess serum digoxin level.
Then, the obtained data was an encoded and statistically analysed by means of SPSS software at the significant level α=0.05.
Findings:In this survey, 59 patients with Heart failure who took digoxin and 59 controls were studied. Relative frequency of color vision disorder in the cases was estimated at 6.8%, but in the controls it was estimated at 1.7%; hence the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.36).Frequency of color vision disorder did not reveal a significant difference regarding age and sex. Serum digoxin level was abnormal in 5.1% of the patients. A significant difference was not found between mean serum digoxin and color vision disorder.
Results:Using color vision disorder, as a diagnostic measure of Digoxin toxicity, is of no use.
Investigating Explorative Character of Ozone Layer Depletion Between Pakistan and China: A Comparative Regional Study
Authors: M. Ayub Khan Yousuf Zai  , Bulbul Jan  , M. Rashid Kamal Ansari
Published: August 2013

In this communication we have assessed explorative nature of ozone layer dynamics using data of ozone depth from 1984-to 2010 at the stratospheric region of China and Pakistan. This study comprises the parametric evaluation that characterizes the physical behaviour of stratospheres of both the regions. For this purpose we have adopted exploratory data analysis (EDA). The results indicated an obvious distinction in the fluctuating dynamics of China and Pakistan. The models discussed in this communication can be used for public, private and government organizations and compared with other countries stratospheric ozone layer dynamics.
Epidemiology of fungal infections and risk factors in newborn patients
Authors: Manzoni Paolo
Published: August 2013

The incidence of fungal infections among newborn babies is increasing, owing mainly to the in­creased ability to care and make survive immature infants at higher specific risk for fungal infections. The risk is higher in infants with very low and extremely low birth weight, in babies receiving total parenteral nutrition, in neonates with limited barrier effect in the gut, or with central venous catheter or other devices where fungal biofilms can originate. Also neonates receiving broad spectrum antibiotics, born through caesarian section or non-breastfed can feature an increased, specific risk. Most fungal infections in neonatology occur in premature children, are of nosocomial origin, and are due to Candida species. Colonization is a preliminary step, and some factors must be considered for the diagnosis and grading process: the iso­lation site, the number of colonized sites, the intensity of colonization, and the Candida subspecies. The most complicated patients are at greater risk of fungal infections, and prophylaxis or pre-emptive therapy should often be considered. A consistent decisional tree in neonatology is yet to be defined, but some efforts have been made in order to identify characteristics that should guide the prophylaxis or treatment choices. A negative blood culture and the absence of symptoms aren’t enough to rule out the diagnosis of fungal infections in newborn babies. Similarly, laboratory tests have been validated only for adults. The clinical judgement is of utmost importance in the diagnostic process, and should take into account the presence of clinical signs of infection, of a severe clinical deterioration, as well as changes in some laboratory tests, and also the presence and characteristics of a pre-existing fungal colonization.
Antifungal agents in non-neonatologic pediatrics
Authors: Castagnola Elio
Published: August 2013

The spectrum of action of antifungal agents helps driving the choice of the treatment, basing on the activity against the fungus of interest. Pharmacokinetics should also be taken into account, considering the time-dependent and the concentration-dependent drugs. Triazoles belong to the first group, while amphotericin B and echinocandins belong to the second one. The effectiveness of time-dependent drugs hangs on the time spent above the Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), whereas that of concentration-dependent drugs is related to the peak of concentration achieved. Thetissue penetration is another important factor that should be taken into account while prescribing an antifungal agent. Interactions with other drugs, above all with those used to treat underlying pathologies, should also be considered. Fungicidal drugs are generally preferred to fungistatic agents, therefore echinocandins and amphotericin B are more prescribed than azoles. Combination therapies are not recommended.
A etnopesquisa crítica e multirreferencial nas ciências humanas e na educação
Authors: Sidnei Macedo Roberto
Published: August 2013

São abordadas, neste livro, questões relevantes ao âmbito da pesquisa epistemológica e crítica que tem por foco o saber humano, a ciência genuinamente humana.
Interfacial Sliding and Buckling of Monolayer Graphene on a Stretchable Substrate
Authors: Jiang Tao , Huang Rui , Zhu Yong
Published: August 2013

The nonlinear mechanical response of monolayer graphene on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is characterised using in‐situ Raman spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy. While interfacial stress transfer leads to tension in graphene as the PET substrate is stretched, retraction of the substrate during unloading imposes compression in the graphene. Two interfacial failure mechanisms, shear sliding under tension and buckling under compression, are identified. Using a nonlinear shear‐lag model, the interfacial shear strength is found to range between 0.46 and 0.69 MPa. The critical strain for onset of interfacial sliding is ∼0.3%, while the maximum strain that can be transferred to graphene ranges from 1.2% to 1.6% depending on the interfacial shear strength and graphene size. Beyond a critical compressive strain of around −0.7%, buckling ridges are observed after unloading. The results from this work provide valuable insight and design guidelines for a broad spectrum of applications of graphene and other 2D nanomaterials, such as flexible and stretchable electronics, strain sensing, and nanocomposites.
The Canadian “National Program for hemophilia mutation testing” database: A ten‐year review
Authors: Natalia Rydz , Jayne Leggo , Shawn Tinlin , Paula James , David Lillicrap
Published: August 2013

A reference genotyping laboratory was established in 2000 at Queen's University, Kingston, to provide genetic testing for Hemophilia A (HA) and B (HB) and create a Canadian mutation database. Canadian hemophilia treatment centers and genetics clinics provided DNA and clinical information from November 2000 to March 2011. The factor VIII (F8) gene was analyzed in 1,177 patients (47% of HA population) and 787 female family members and the factor IX (F9) gene in 267 patients (47% of HB population) and 123 female family members, using Southern Blot, PCR, conformation sensitive gel electrophoresis, and/or direct sequencing. The mutation detection rates for HA and HB were 91% and 94%, respectively. 380 different F8 mutations were identified: inversions of intron 22 and intron 1, 229 missense, 45 nonsense, eight deletions, 70 frameshifts, 25 splice site, and one compound mutation with a splice site and intron 1 inversion. Of these mutations, 228 were novel to the Hemophilia A Database (HADB, http://hadb.org.uk/). A total 125 different F9 mutations were identified: 80 missense, 12 frameshift, 12 splice site, nine nonsense and seven promoter mutations, three large deletions, and two compound mutations with both missense and nonsense changes. Of these mutations, 36 were novel to the International Haemophilia B Mutation database (http://www.kcl.ac.uk/ip/petergreen/haemBdatabase.html). The Canadian F8 and F9 mutation database reflects the allelic heterogeneity of HA and HB, and is similar to previously described populations. This report represents the largest and longest duration experience of a national hemophilia genotyping program documented, to date. Am. J. Hematol. 88:1030–1034, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thrombopoietin levels in patients with disorders of platelet production: Diagnostic potential and utility in predicting response to TPO Receptor agonists
Authors: Makar Robert S. , Zhukov Olga S. , Sahud Mervyn A. , Kuter David J.
Published: August 2013

Thrombopoietin (TPO) is the major regulator of megakaryopoiesis. Measurement of serum TPO levels may help distinguish between various causes of thrombocytopenia and predict treatment response to TPO receptor agonists. Serum TPO levels from 118 healthy volunteers and 88 patients with abnormal platelet counts were measured using a quantitative ELISA assay. The mean (range) TPO level in healthy volunteers was 39 (7–99) pg/mL. TPO values were correlated with the patient's diagnosis, platelet count, and response to TPO receptor agonists. 88 patients with history of consumptive thrombocytopenia (39) or hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia (49) were analyzed. Median (interquartile range) TPO level for consumptive thrombocytopenia patients was 63 (48–98) pg/mL with a corresponding median (interquartile range) platelet count of 73 (28–146) × 109/L. In contrast, hypoproliferative thrombocytopenia patients had platelet counts [59 (30–117) × 109/L] comparable with consumptive thrombocytopenia patients, but significantly higher serum TPO levels [706 (358–1546) pg/mL, P < 0.0001]. Analysis of 21 ITP patients treated with TPO receptor agonists demonstrated that a TPO level >95 pg/mL was associated with lack of clinical response (P < 0.002). TPO levels may have diagnostic utility in discriminating between patients with hypoproliferative and consumptive thrombocytopenia. Elevated TPO levels in ITP patients may predict a poor clinical response to treatment with TPO receptor agonists. Am. J. Heamtol. 88:1041–1044, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
2D:4D finger length ratio and reproductive indices in a Chuvashian population
Authors: Kalichman Leonid , Batsevich Valery , Kobyliansky Eugene
Published: August 2013

Objective

to evaluate the association between 2D:4D finger length ratios (representing the prenatal environment, i.e., early androgen exposure) and reproductive indices, such as age at menarche, menopausal age, and length of reproductive period.

Methods

Retrospective data on age at menarche and menopausal age as well as x‐rays of both hands were obtained from 674 Chuvashian women aged 18–70 years (mean 46.32 ± 15.42). Finger and metacarpal length ratios as well as visual classification of finger ratio types, were estimated from the x‐rays.

Results and Conclusions

We found that a low 2D:4D ratio (radiologically evaluated), a masculine 2D:4D ratio type (visually evaluated), and a putative bioassay for prenatal androgen exposure, were associated with a later menarche and a shorter reproductive period. No association was found with menopausal age. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 25:617–621, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reliability of standard circumferences in domain‐related constitutional applications
Authors: Jonathan Tresignie , Aldo Scafoglieri , Pieter Clarys Jan , Erik Cattrysse
Published: August 2013

Objectives

There may be no doubt that circumferences, measured at different sites of body segments, have a variety of applications. Studies using girths are based on assumed logic, but within a general context no literature is found as to the origin of choice of a particular circumference for a particular application.

The purpose of this study is to relate each circumference (i) with the segmental tissue masses and (ii) with all whole‐body tissue masses; in order to provide a complete constitutional reliability report of each girth available.

Methods

Subsequent to an anthropometric protocol, 23 (9 male aged 74.8 ± 5.7 years and 14 female aged 79.2 ± 7.3 years) well‐preserved white Caucasian cadavers, of lean subjects were dissected according to the 5‐component model and expressed on its tissue‐system level, for example, skin, muscle, adipose tissue, viscera, and bones.

Results

The relations range from r = 0.80 to r = 0.99 (P < 0.01). A majority of circumferences (e.g., head, neck, upper thigh, mid‐thigh, and calf) do represent what is expected. Other girths (e.g., waist, upper arm, elbow, forearm, and wrist) do not relate adequately to the assumed constituent.

Conclusion

This study suggests the appreciation of the waist circumference. This measure is not valid for lean individuals, but might be for the obese. It is suggested likewise that a combination of chest and hip circumference may have a more general application within the public health sector. In summary, evidence confirms the reliability of a series of circumferences but creates doubts or rejects other colloquially established perimeters. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 25:637–642, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prenatal and postnatal energetic conditions and sex steroids levels across the first year of life
Authors: Thompson Amanda L. , Lampl Michelle
Published: August 2013

Objectives

Human biologists have documented variability in reproductive maturation, fertility, and cancer risk related to developmental conditions. Yet no previous studies have directly examined the impact of prenatal and postnatal energetic environments on sex steroids in infancy, a critical period for hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis development. Thus, we examined the impact of maternal characteristics, birth size, and feeding practices on fecal sex steroid production in a longitudinal sample of 31 American infants followed from 2 weeks to 12 months of age.

Methods

Maternal characteristics and birth size were collected at study enrollment, infant diet was assessed through weekly 24‐h food diaries, and anthropometrics were measured weekly. Fecal estradiol and testosterone levels were assessed weekly using validated microassay RIA techniques. Mixed models were used to test for associations between maternal and birth characteristics, feeding practices, and sex steroids across the first year of life. Formal mediation analysis examined whether the relationship between infant feeding and hormone levels was mediated by infant size.

Results

Maternal and birth characteristics had persistent effects on fecal sex steroid levels, with taller maternal height and larger birth size associated with lower estradiol levels in girls and higher testosterone levels in boys. Infant diet was also associated with sex steroid levels independently of infant size. Formula feeding was associated with higher estradiol levels in boys and girls and with higher testosterone in girls.

Conclusion

These results suggest that markers of early energy availability influence sex hormone levels with potential long‐term consequences for reproductive development and function. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 25:643–654, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The developmental origins of chronic rheumatic heart disease
Authors: Eriksson Johan G. , Kajantie Eero , Phillips David I.W. , Osmond Clive , Thornburg Kent L. , Barker David J.P.
Published: August 2013

Objectives

Programming is the phenomenon whereby the body's structures and functions are permanently set by nutrition and other influences during early development. There is increasing evidence that programming in utero initiates cardiovascular disease. We hypothesized that susceptibility to developing chronic rheumatic heart disease on exposure to Streptococcus pyogenes is programmed.

Methods

We studied hospital admissions and deaths from chronic rheumatic heart disease in 20,431 people born in Helsinki, Finland, during 1924–1944. One hundred and one people, 56 men, and 45 women, had chronic rheumatic heart disease.

Results

The disease was not associated with body or placental size at birth. It was, however, associated with a long umbilical cord so that the hazard ratio for the disease was 1.23 (95% CI 1.04–1.45, P = 0.02) for every 10 cm increase in cord length. This association was present in people with mitral valve disease, hazard ratio 1.5 (1.20–1.89, P < 0.0001), but not in people with aortic valve disease, hazard ratio 1.0 (0.76–1.33, P = 0.97). Growing up in large households increased the risk of rheumatic heart disease.

Conclusion

Longer umbilical cords have more spirals and a greater density of spirals per unit of length. Increased spiraling will increase the resistance to flow and the pressure load on the fetal heart. This could affect the development of the heart's valves and make them more vulnerable to the autoimmune process initiated by Streptococcus pyogenes. The mitral valve may be more vulnerable than the aortic valve because the valve leaflets are larger and therefore have greater wall stress. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 25:655–658, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nutritional status of Maya children, their mothers, and their grandmothers residing in the City of Merida, Mexico: Revisiting the leg‐length hypothesis
Authors: Azcorra Hugo , Varela‐Silva Maria Inês , Rodriguez Luis , Bogin Barry , Dickinson Federico
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To test the hypothesis that leg length‐relative‐to‐stature is a more sensitive indicator of nutrition and health than is total height (HT) or sitting height (SH) in a sample of 109 triads of urban Maya children (6.0–8.99 years), their mothers, and maternal grandmothers from Merida, Mexico.

Methods

From September 2011 to June 2012, the following factors were obtained from all participants: (1) HT, SH, and leg length (LL); (2) the sitting height ratio (SHR = [SH × 100]/HT), relative leg length index (RLLI = [LL × 100]/height), and percentiles and z‐scores of HT, SH, and LL were calculated; and (3) the percentages of stunting for children or very short ZHT for the adults, short ZSH, and short ZLL: HT‐for‐age, SH‐for‐age, or LL‐for‐age below the 5th percentile of the reference were calculated. Correlations were performed to examine the association between z‐scores of HT, SH, and LL among three generations.

Results

Stunting in children was 11% (short ZLL = 29%, short ZSH = 7%). Short ZHT was present in 71% of mothers (short ZLL = 54%, short ZSH = 50%) and 90% of grandmothers (short ZLL = 69%, short ZSH = 83%). Significant correlations in ZHT, ZSH, and ZLL were found in mother‐to‐child and grandmother‐to‐mother, with the strongest correlations for ZLL.

Conclusions

These findings support the hypothesis for children and mothers. Based on ZLL, there is evidence that childhood and nutrition have improved somewhat for each younger generation. Persistent environmental adversity during growth resulted in growth deficits for LL and SH for the mothers and grandmothers. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 25:659–665, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Measured maximal heart rates compared to commonly used age‐based prediction equations in the heritage family study
Authors: Sarzynski M.A. , Rankinen T. , Earnest C.P. , Leon A.S. , Rao D.C. , Skinner J.S. , Bouchard C.
Published: August 2013

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine how well two commonly used age‐based prediction equations for maximal heart rate (HRmax) estimate the actual HRmax measured in Black and White adults from the HERITAGE Family Study.

Methods

A total of 762 sedentary subjects (39% Black, 57% Females) from HERITAGE were included. HRmax was measured during maximal exercise tests using cycle ergometers. Age‐based HRmax was predicted using the Fox (220‐age) and Tanaka (208 – 0.7 × age) formulas.

Results

The standard error of estimate (SEE) of predicted HRmax was 12.4 and 11.4 bpm for the Fox and Tanaka formulas, respectively, indicating a wide‐spread of measured‐HRmax values are compared to their age‐predicted values. The SEE (shown as Fox/Tanaka) was higher in Blacks (14.4/13.1 bpm) and Males (12.6/11.7 bpm) compared to Whites (11.0/10.2 bpm) and Females (12.3/11.2 bpm) for both formulas. The SEE was higher in subjects above the BMI median (12.8/11.9 bpm) and below the fitness median (13.4/12.4 bpm) when compared to those below the BMI median (12.2/11.0 bpm) and above the fitness median (11.4/10.3) for both formulas.

Conclusion

Our findings show that based on the SEE, the prevailing age‐based estimated HRmax equations do not precisely predict an individual's measured‐HRmax. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 25:695–701, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Secondary Amines as Lewis Bases in Nitroalkene Activation
Authors: Yan Wuming , Shi Xiaodong , Zhong Cheng
Published: August 2013

Secondary amines, the well‐known enamine and iminium catalysts, can also be used as Lewis bases for the activation of electron‐deficient olefins. In this Focus Review, a series of systematic studies from the last five years on activation of nitroolefins with secondary amines as Lewis bases that give different multicomponent condensation products are described. Asymmetric syntheses of heterocycles based on this strategy are also presented.
Recent Advances in the Use of Chiral Brønsted Acids as Cooperative Catalysts in Cascade and Multicomponent Reactions
Authors: Lv Fengping , Liu Shunying , Hu Wenhao
Published: August 2013

In recent years, chiral Brønsted acid catalysts have been widely used in numerous enantioselective carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom bond‐forming reactions. Cascade/domino reactions and multicomponent reactions provide highly efficient, operationally simple, and atom‐economical approaches to the synthesis of polyfunctional complex molecules that are useful for modern organic chemistry and drug discovery. The control of stereoselectivity in these reactions remains a great challenge. Chiral Brønsted acid catalysts were rationally introduced as bifunctional catalysts to achieve synergetic catalysis for well‐controlled stereoselectivity. The synergy between chiral Brønsted acid catalysts and other compatible catalysts provides additional avenues for the discovery of novel organic transformations and improves reaction selectivity as well. In this Focus Review, recent advances in the uses of chiral Brønsted acids as cooperative catalysts in asymmetric cascade/multicomponent reactions are summarized.
Variability in the developmental life history of the genusGorilla
Authors: Stoinski Tara S. , Perdue Bonnie , Breuer Thomas , Hoff Michael P.
Published: August 2013

Life history is influenced by factors both intrinsic (e.g., body and relative brain size) and extrinsic (e.g., diet, environmental instability) to organisms. In this study, we examine the prediction that energetic risk influences the life history of gorillas. Recent comparisons suggest that the more frugivorous western lowland gorilla shows increased infant dependence, and thus a slower life history, than the primarily folivorous mountain gorilla to buffer against the risk of starvation during periods of food unpredictability. We further tested this hypothesis by incorporating additional life history data from wild western lowland gorillas and captive western lowland gorillas with the assumption that the latter live under ecological conditions of energetic risk that more closely resemble those of mountain gorillas and thus should show faster life histories than wild members of the species. Overall, we found captive western lowland and wild mountain gorillas to have faster developmental life histories than wild western lowland gorillas, weaning their infants approximately a year earlier and thus reducing interbirth intervals by a year. These results provide support that energetic risk plays an important role in determining gorilla life history. Unlike previous assertions, gorillas do not have substantially faster life histories, at least at the genus level, than other great apes. This calls for a re‐evaluation of theories concerning comparative ape life history and evolution and highlights the need for data from additional populations that vary in energetic risk. Am J Phys Anthropol 152:165–172, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prevalence and patterning of maxillary premolar accessory ridges (MxPARs) in several human populations
Authors: Mihailidis Suzanna , Scriven Graham , Khamis Mohd , Townsend Grant
Published: August 2013

We present new data on the prevalence and patterning of the maxillary premolar accessory ridge (MxPAR), a common but understudied morphological dental trait that is expressed as a linear elevation extending from the buccal cusp ridge to the medial sulcus of maxillary premolar teeth. A total of 579 sets of dental casts, representing six ethnic groups, were scored using the five‐grade system proposed by Burnett et al. (2010). The frequency and distribution of the MxPAR were determined by tooth type, sex, side, locus and ethnicity, and the applicability of the scoring system was assessed. The MxPAR was found in approximately two‐thirds of premolar teeth, more often on second than first premolars, and more often on the distal aspect of the occlusal surface than the mesial. There was some evidence that more pronounced forms of the feature occurred more often in males than females, and that there may be some directionality in its expression between sides. Variation was also noted in the frequency of occurrence and degree of expression of the MxPAR between ethnic groups. Intra‐ and inter‐observer concordance rates for scoring the MxPAR were low, confirming that it was difficult to score the trait identically on two different occasions. Our findings have clarified the distribution of the MxPAR within the dentition and between ethnic groups, and highlighted the need for researchers to carry out thorough replicability studies and to decide on an appropriate breakpoint for determining presence or absence of this feature before embarking on genetic studies or bio‐distance analyses. Am J Phys Anthropol 152:19–30, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dental wear and cultural behavior in Middle Paleolithic humans from the Near East
Authors: Fiorenza Luca , Kullmer Ottmar
Published: August 2013

Neanderthals and anatomically modern humans (AMHs) may have lived in close proximity in the Near East region during Middle Paleolithic times. Although functional morphological analyses suggest a marked behavioral contrast between these two human groups, new dental micro‐ and macro‐wear studies, together with new archaeological data, have revealed some similarities in ecology and dietary habits. In this study, we analyze the tooth wear patterns of Neanderthals and AMH from Middle Paleolithic sites of Israel and Northern Iraq, using the Occlusal Fingerprint Analysis (OFA) method to virtually reconstruct the jaw movements responsible for the creation of the occlusal wear areas. We particularly focus on para‐facets, a distinctive type of wear which has been previously described in the dentition of historic and modern hunter‐gatherers. The analysis reveals a similarity in para‐facet frequency between early Near Eastern Neanderthals and AMH, and a significant difference with other Pleistocene human groups. The absence of antagonist occlusal contacts in the lower teeth and the occlusal compass analysis suggest that para‐facet formation is not related to normal mastication but to nonmasticatory activities. Thus, the identification of these nonmasticatory wear areas on the molars of early Near Eastern Neanderthals and AMH may indicate analogous tooth‐tool uses for daily task activities. These may have emerged independently or could be interpreted as indirect evidence of cultural interactions between these two groups. Am J Phys Anthropol 152:107–117, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Eteplirsen for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Mendell Jerry R. , Rodino‐Klapac Louise R. , Sahenk Zarife , Roush Kandice , Bird Loren , Lowes Linda P. , Alfano Lindsay , Gomez Ann Maria , Lewis Sarah , Kota Janaiah , Malik Vinod , Shontz Kim , Walker Christopher M. , Flanigan Kevin M. , Corridore Marco , Kean John R. , Allen Hugh D. , Shilling Chris , Melia Kathleen R. , Sazani Peter , Saoud Jay B. , Kaye Edward M. ,   the Eteplirsen Study Group
Published: August 2013

Objective

In prior open‐label studies, eteplirsen, a phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer, enabled dystrophin production in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) with genetic mutations amenable to skipping exon 51. The present study used a double‐blind placebo‐controlled protocol to test eteplirsen's ability to induce dystrophin production and improve distance walked on the 6‐minute walk test (6MWT).

Methods

DMD boys aged 7 to 13 years, with confirmed deletions correctable by skipping exon 51 and ability to walk 200 to 400 m on 6 MWT, were randomized to weekly intravenous infusions of 30 or 50 mg/kg/wk eteplirsen or placebo for 24 weeks (n = 4/group). Placebo patients switched to 30 or 50 mg/kg eteplirsen (n = 2/group) at week 25; treatment was open label thereafter. All patients had muscle biopsies at baseline and week 48. Efficacy included dystrophin‐positive fibers and distance walked on the 6MWT.

Results

At week 24, the 30 mg/kg eteplirsen patients were biopsied, and percentage of dystrophin‐positive fibers was increased to 23% of normal; no increases were detected in placebo‐treated patients (p ≤ 0.002). Even greater increases occurred at week 48 (52% and 43% in the 30 and 50 mg/kg cohorts, respectively), suggesting that dystrophin increases with longer treatment. Restoration of functional dystrophin was confirmed by detection of sarcoglycans and neuronal nitric oxide synthase at the sarcolemma. Ambulation‐evaluable eteplirsen‐treated patients experienced a 67.3 m benefit compared to placebo/delayed patients (p ≤ 0.001).

Interpretation

Eteplirsen restored dystrophin in the 30 and 50 mg/kg/wk cohorts, and in subsequently treated, placebo‐controlled subjects. Duration, more than dose, accounted for dystrophin production, also resulting in ambulation stability. No severe adverse events were encountered. Ann Neurol 2013;74:637–647
Synthesis and swelling behaviors of semi‐IPNs superabsorbent resin based on chicken feather protein
Authors: Li Qian , Liu Jia , Su Yuan , Yue Qinyan , Gao Baoyu
Published: August 2013

A novel chicken feather protein‐g‐poly (potassium acrylate)/polyvinyl alcohol (CFP‐g‐PKA/PVA) semi‐IPNs superabsorbent resin (SAR) based on feather protein, acrylic acid (AA), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was synthesized by graft copolymerization and semi‐interpenetrating technology. The results from FTIR, SEM, and TGA analysis showed that both CFP and PVA reacted with PKA during the polymerization process. The effects of AA, PVA, initiator and crosslinker content on water absorbency of semi‐IPNs SAR were studied. The swelling behavior in various pHs and saline solutions were also investigated. The water absorbency of SAR reached the maximum at pH = 6. The effect of the five cations on swelling had the following order: Al3+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ > K+ > Na+. The highest water absorbency in distilled water and 0.9 wt % NaCl solutions were 714.22 and 70.08 g g−1, respectively. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39748.