bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population‐specific demography and invasion potential in medfly
Authors: Diamantidis Alexandros D. , Carey James R. , Nakas Christos T. , Papadopoulos Nikos T.
Published: October 2011

Biological invasions are constantly gaining recognition as a significant component of global change. The Mediterranean fruit fly (medfly) constitutes an ideal model species for the study of biological invasions due to its (1) almost cosmopolitan geographic distribution, (2) huge economic importance, and (3) well‐documented invasion history. Under a common garden experimental set up, we tested the hypothesis that medfly populations obtained from six global regions [Africa (Kenya), Pacific (Hawaii), Central America (Guatemala), South America (Brazil), Extra–Mediterranean (Portugal), and Mediterranean (Greece)] have diverged in important immature life‐history traits such as preadult survival and developmental times. We also tested the hypothesis that medfly populations from the above regions exhibit different population growth rates. For this purpose, data on the life history of immatures were combined with adult survival and reproduction data derived from an earlier study in order to calculate population parameters for the above six populations. Our results clearly show that medfly populations worldwide exhibit significant differences in preadult survival, developmental rates of immatures and important population parameters such as the intrinsic rate of increase. Therefore, geographically isolated medfly populations may share different invasion potential, since population growth rates could influence basic population processes that operate mostly during the last two stages of an invasion event, such as establishment and spread. Our findings provide valuable information for designing population suppression measures and managing invasiveness of medfly populations worldwide.
The Interplay of Hydrogen Bonding and Multiple Metal Binding – A New Cyclic Polyaminopolyalcohol Ligand as Building Block for the Construction of Microporous, Supramolecular Networks
Authors: Merten Günter J. , Neis Christian , Stucky Stefan , Huch Volker , Rentschler Eva , Natter Harald , Hempelmann Rolf , Stöwe Klaus , Hegetschweiler Kaspar
Published: October 2011

Cyclohexane‐based polyaminopolyalcohols (PAPAs) such as 1,3‐diamino‐1,2,3‐trideoxy‐cis‐inositol (daci) have been prepared by hydrogenation of suitable aromatic precursors. The pentanuclear complex [Cu5(daci)4(H–2daci)2](SO4)3·18H2O (C3) revealed antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic interactions between the CuII centers with an S = 3/2 ground state. The microporous structure of C3 exhibited a dehydration/rehydration reaction with an entirely amorphous dehydrated phase at 150 °C and a completely reversible rehydration process at 30 °C. The potential of PAPA ligands for forming polynuclear complexes and supramolecular, hydrogen‐bonded networks is discussed.
Unique Type of BF2‐Capped Tetraoxobenzene π‐Complexes of “Cp*M”: Novel Organometallic Backbones for the Self‐Assembly of Porous Networks
Authors: Moussa Jamal , Damas Aurélie , Chamoreau Lise‐Marie , Rager Marie Noelle , Amouri Hani
Published: October 2011

The synthesis of two novel organometallic π complexes of a BF2‐capped tetraoxobenzene (TOB) of the general formulae [Cp*M‐η6‐{BF2‐TOB‐BF2}] (M = Ir, 2a; M = Rh, 2b) is reported together with their molecular structures ascertained by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. Complexes 2a and 2b are isostructural and show the formation of 3D porous supramolecular networks. Interestingly the supramolecular networks arise from the zwitterionic nature of 2a and 2b. Indeed, the individual molecules self‐assemble through the teamwork of dipolar H···F hydrogen and C···F halogen bonds, which leads to the formation of 3D networks with empty channels. These complexes hold promise for the design of a new class of porous materials with useful properties.
A Highly Efficient Method for the Copper‐Catalyzed Selective Synthesis of Diaryl Chalcogenides from Easily Available Chalcogen Sources
Authors: Li Yaming , Nie Caiping , Wang Huifeng , Li Xiaoying , Verpoort Francis , Duan Chunying
Published: October 2011

An efficient protocol for copper‐catalyzed C–S or C–Se bond formation between aryl iodides and easily available chalcogen sources leading to diaryl chalcogenides is reported. A variety of symmetrical diaryl sulfides and diaryl selenides were synthesized in good to excellent yields. Unsymmetrical diaryl sulfides were also obtained in moderate yields from two different aryl iodides by a one‐pot tandem process. This strategy was further successfully utilized for the synthesis of 2‐phenylbenzo[b]thiophene and of [1]benzothieno[3,2‐b]benzothiophene.
Similar solution for three‐dimensional flow in an Oldroyd‐B fluid over a stretching surface
Authors: Hayat T. , Awais M. , Obaidat S.
Published: October 2011

The present investigation deals with the three‐dimensional flow of an Oldroyd‐B fluid over a stretching surface. The governing equations for the three‐dimensional flow are developed. Similarity transformations are invoked for the conversion of nonlinear partial differential equations into the coupled system of ordinary differential equations. Computations for the series solution are presented through implementation of homotopy analysis method. The salient features of the involved parameters have been pointed out. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Canonical Distribution, Implied Binomial Tree, and the Pricing of American Options
Authors: Liu Qiang , Guo Shuxin
Published: October 2011

In this study, a new approach to pricing American options is proposed and termed the canonical implied binomial (CIB) tree method. CIB takes advantage of both canonical valuation (Stutzer, 1996) and the implied binomial tree method (Rubinstein, 1994). Using simulated returns from geometric Brownian motions (GBM), CIB produced very similar prices for calls and European puts as those of Black–Scholes (BS). Applied to a set of over 15,000 American‐style S&P 100 Index puts, CIB outperformed BS with historic volatility in pricing out‐of‐the‐money options; in addition, it outperformed the canonical least‐squares Monte Carlo (Liu, 2010) in the dynamic hedging of in‐the‐money options. Furthermore, CIB suggests that regular GBM‐based Monte Carlo can be extended to American options pricing by also utilizing the implied binomial tree. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark
FIGHTING TRANSIENT EPIDEMICS—OPTIMAL VACCINATION SCHEDULES BEFORE AND AFTER AN OUTBREAK
Authors: Nævdal Eric
Published: October 2011

Epidemic diseases afflict all countries, and all epidemics are costly to society. The present paper examines optimal vaccination trajectories before and after an outbreak of a special class of epidemics where the disease normally eradicates itself. The focus is on epidemics where mortality may be ignored, influenza being the prime example. One important insight is that there may be increasing returns to scale in vaccination. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prognostic significance of postoperative wound infections after total laryngectomy
Authors: González–Márquez Rocío , Rodrigo Juan Pablo , Suárez Nieto Carlos
Published: October 2011

Background

In oncologic surgery, the relationship between postoperative wound infections and prognosis remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to establish the prognostic significance of surgical wound infections in laryngectomized patients.

Method

We studied 129 consecutive patients with previously untreated laryngeal or hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent a total laryngectomy. Minimum follow‐up was 24 months.

Results

Fifty‐seven patients (44%) developed a wound infection. Infections were more frequent in hypopharyngeal tumors (p < .001). Surgical wound infection was associated with a worse disease‐specific survival (p = .046), but this association was due to the hypopharyngeal subgroup of cases (p = .024). In multivariate analysis, the only parameters significantly associated with a worse disease‐specific survival in these cases were nodal extracapsular invasion (p < .001) and surgical wound infection (p = .02).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the development of a postoperative wound infection is a poor prognostic sign in patients with advanced hypopharyngeal cancers surgically treated. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Fully 3‐dimensional digitally planned reconstruction of a mandible with a free vascularized fibula and immediate placement of an implant‐supported prosthetic construction
Authors: Schepers Rutger H. , Raghoebar Gerry M , Vissink Arjan , Lahoda Lars U. , Van der Meer W. Joerd , Roodenburg Jan L. , Reintsema Harry , Witjes Max J.
Published: October 2011

Background

Reconstruction of craniofacial defects becomes complex when dental implants are included for functional rehabilitation. We describe a fully 3‐dimensional (3D) digitally planned reconstruction of a mandible and immediate prosthetic loading with a fibula graft in a 2‐step surgical approach.

Methods

A 54‐year‐old man had development of osteoradionecrosis of the mandible. The resection, cutting and implant placement in the fibula were virtually planned. Cutting/drilling guides were 3D printed, and the suprastructure was computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing milled.

Results

For the first operation, the implants were inserted in the fibula, and the position was registered by an optical scanning technique that defined the final planning of the suprastructure. For the second operation, the osteoradionecrosis was resected, the fibula was harvested and, with the denture fixed on the preinserted implants, placed in the mandibula guided by the occlusion.

Conclusion

It was possible to plan a mandibular reconstruction with immediate prosthetic loading completely by 3D virtual techniques. Head Neck, 2013
Fibula osteo‐adipofascial flap for mandibular and maxillary reconstruction
Authors: Smith Mark L. , Clarke–Pearson Emily , Dayan Joseph H.
Published: October 2011

Background

The fibula free flap is a reliable method for reconstructing composite head and neck defects. However, its skin paddle has drawbacks, including its thickness, hair‐bearing surface, desquamation, difficulty insetting it into maxillary defects, and the potential need for skin‐grafting the donor site. The fibula osteo‐adipofascial flap (FOAFF) is a modification of the fibula flap that overcomes these problems.

Methods

A retrospective study of 6 consecutive patients who underwent FOAFF reconstruction was evaluated for outcomes and complications.

Results

The mean follow‐up was 22.6 months. All flaps survived, with complete oral mucosalization by 7 weeks. Four patients had dental implants placed at the time of reconstruction. Two patients received radiation therapy. Aside from loss of the labial sulcus in anterior maxillary reconstructions, complications were negligible.

Conclusion

The FOAFF is useful for reconstructing defects requiring bone, soft tissue, and mucosal replacement without the disadvantages of the traditional fibula skin paddle. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
Review of ecological-based risk management approaches used at five Army Superfund sites
Authors: Poucher Sherri L , Tracey Gregory A , Johnson Mark S , Haines Laurie B
Published: October 2011

Factors used in environmental remedial decision making concerning ecological risk are not well understood or necessarily consistent. Recent Records of Decision (RODs) for Army CERCLA sites were reviewed to select case studies where remedial management occurred in response to ecological risks. Thirty-four Army RODs were evaluated representing decisions promulgated between 1996 and 2004. Five were selected based on assessments that remedial actions were clearly linked to concern for ecological receptors. The Ecological Risk Assessment (ERA) approach and the subsequent risk management process were reviewed for each site. The case studies demonstrated that the ERA findings, as well as critical management decisions regarding interpretation of identified ecological risks, were determinants of remedial action objectives. Decisions regarding the selection of remedial alternatives were based on a set of criteria prescribed by Superfund requirements and guidance. Remedial alternative evaluations require protection of human health and the environment, but protective conditions were determined using different methods at each site. Examining the remedial management process for the 5 case study sites revealed that uncertainty in the risk assessment and decisions regarding appropriate spatial scales for both risk assessment and remediation were important factors influencing remedial action decisions. The case reviews also revealed that levels of documentation were variable from site to site. In the future, more detailed documentation of decision criteria and the development of criteria that consider the resilience of the site will result in more technically defensible ecological risk management. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2012; 8: 246–261. © 2011 SETAC
DIAMOND MINING, RICE FARMING AND A ‘MAGGI CUBE’: A VIABLE SURVIVAL STRATEGY IN RURAL LIBERIA?
Authors: Hilson Gavin , Van Bockstael Steven
Published: October 2011

Since the conclusion of its 14‐year civil war in 2003, Liberia has struggled economically. Jobs are in short supply and operational infrastructural services, such as electricity and running water, are virtually nonexistent. The situation has proved especially challenging for the scores of people who fled the country in the 1990s to escape the violence and who have since returned to re‐enter their lives. With few economic prospects on hand, many have elected to enter the artisanal diamond mining sector, which has earned notoriety for perpetuating the country's civil war. This article critically reflects on the fate of these Liberians, many of whom, because of a lack of government support, finances, manpower and technological resources, have forged deals with hired labourers to work artisanal diamond fields. Specifically, in exchange for meals containing locally grown rice and a Maggi (soup) cube, hired hands mine diamondiferous territories, splitting the revenues accrued from the sales of recovered stones amongst themselves and the individual ‘claimholder’ who hired them. Although this cycle—referred to here as ‘diamond mining, rice farming and a Maggi cube’—helps to buffer against poverty, few of the parties involved will ever progress beyond a subsistence level. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
RE‐AGRARIANISING LIVELIHOODS IN POST‐CONFLICT SIERRA LEONE? MINERAL WEALTH AND RURAL CHANGE IN ARTISANAL AND SMALL‐SCALE MINING COMMUNITIES
Authors: Maconachie Roy
Published: October 2011

In mineral‐rich regions of Sierra Leone, the diversification of livelihood portfolios is widespread and local actors have long pursued complex and dynamic strategies that involve the intertwining of farming and mining economies. This article examines recent evidence from two impoverished communities in the diamond‐ and gold‐producing regions of the country, where artisanal and small‐scale mining (ASM) operations dovetail with agrarian activities. On the one hand, the analysis suggests that income derived from ASM provides valuable investment funds for reviving the agrarian institutions and social networks that are vital to the post‐war rural economy. However, on the other hand, diminishing returns from diamond mining operations coupled with the institutional and policy challenges of the mining sector may also be responsible for persuading some individuals to abandon ASM and encouraging them to re‐orientate their livelihoods more exclusively around farming. In light of these two diverging developments, this article compares and contrasts the potential of artisanal gold and diamond mining as strategies to uplift livelihoods. In doing so, it is argued that a better understanding of the nexus between informal mining and farming activities is essential for alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable rural livelihoods in the post‐war period. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Skin glands, poison and mimicry in dendrobatid and leptodactylid amphibians
Authors: Prates Ivan , Antoniazzi Marta M. , Sciani Juliana M. , Pimenta Daniel C. , Toledo Luís Felipe , Haddad Célio F.B. , Jared Carlos
Published: October 2011

In amphibians, secretions of toxins from specialized skin poison glands play a central role in defense against predators. The production of toxic secretions is often associated with conspicuous color patterns that warn potential predators, as it is the case of many dendrobatid frogs, including Ameerega picta. This species resembles the presumably nontoxic Leptodactylus lineatus. This study tests for mimicry by studying the morphology and distribution of skin glands, components of skin secretion, and defensive behavior. Dorsal skin was studied histologically and histochemically, and skin secretions were submitted to sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography and assays for proteolytic activity. We found that poison glands in A. picta are filled with nonprotein granules that are rich in carbohydrates, while L. lineatus glands present protein granules. Accordingly, great amounts of proteins, at least some of them enzymes, were found in the poison of L. lineatus but not in that of A. picta. Both species differ greatly on profiles of gland distribution: In L. lineatus, poison glands are organized in clusters whose position coincides with colored elements of the dorsum. These regions are evidenced through a set of displays, suggesting that poison location is announced to predators through skin colors. In contrast, A. picta presents lower densities of glands, distributed homogeneously. This simpler profile suggests a rather qualitative than quantitative investment in chemical defense, in agreement with the high toxicity attributed to dendrobatids in general. Our data suggest that both species are toxic or unpalatable and transmit common warning signals to predators, which represents a case of Müllerian mimicry. J. Morphol. 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of axial tibial torque direction on ACL relative strain and strain rate in an in vitro simulated pivot landing
Authors: Oh Youkeun K. , Kreinbrink Jennifer L. , Wojtys Edward M. , Ashton‐Miller James A.
Published: October 2011

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries most frequently occur under the large loads associated with a unipedal jump landing involving a cutting or pivoting maneuver. We tested the hypotheses that internal tibial torque would increase the anteromedial (AM) bundle ACL relative strain and strain rate more than would the corresponding external tibial torque under the large impulsive loads associated with such landing maneuvers. Twelve cadaveric female knees [mean (SD) age: 65.0 (10.5) years] were tested. Pretensioned quadriceps, hamstring, and gastrocnemius muscle‐tendon unit forces maintained an initial knee flexion angle of 15°. A compound impulsive test load (compression, flexion moment, and internal or external tibial torque) was applied to the distal tibia while recording the 3D knee loads and tibofemoral kinematics. AM‐ACL relative strain was measured using a 3 mm DVRT. In this repeated measures experiment, the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test was used to test the null hypotheses with p < 0.05 considered significant. The mean (±SD) peak AM‐ACL relative strains were 5.4 ± 3.7% and 3.1 ± 2.8% under internal and external tibial torque, respectively. The corresponding mean (± SD) peak AM‐ACL strain rates reached 254.4 ± 160.1%/s and 179.4 ± 109.9%/s, respectively. The hypotheses were supported in that the normalized mean peak AM‐ACL relative strain and strain rate were 70 and 42% greater under internal than under external tibial torque, respectively (p = 0.023, p = 0.041). We conclude that internal tibial torque is a potent stressor of the ACL because it induces a considerably (70%) larger peak strain in the AM‐ACL than does a corresponding external tibial torque. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:528–534, 2012
Fracture of the vertebral endplates, but not equienergetic impact load, promotes disc degeneration in vitro
Authors: Dudli Stefan , Haschtmann Daniel , Ferguson Stephen J.
Published: October 2011

Vertebral endplate damage is associated with intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (DD) in vivo as confirmed by in‐vitro investigations. Our aims were to further characterize the process of DD using an in vitro full‐organ culture model and to elucidate whether significant endplate damage or impact loading alone is pivotal for the initiation of DD. Rabbit spinal segments (n = 80) were harvested, subjected to pure axial impact loading (n = 40) using a custom‐made device, and cultured for 28 days. The applied threshold energy (0.76 J) induced endplate fractures in 21 specimens (group A); 19 remained intact (group B). Markers for DD (cell viability, apoptosis, necrosis, matrix remodeling, and inflammation) were monitored for 28 days post‐trauma in the annulus fibrosus (AF) and nucleus pulposus and compared to non‐impacted control discs. Cell viability in both groups stayed at a control level. Group A compared to group B showed enhanced lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and caspase‐3/7 activity, reduced glycosaminoglycan content, reduced aggrecan mRNA, but elevated mRNA for collagen‐2, catabolic enzymes (MMP‐1/‐3/‐13), and pro‐inflammatory (TNFα, IL‐6, IL‐8, MCP‐1) and pro‐apoptotic (fas ligand, caspase‐3) proteins. Group B compared to control only showed small changes in mRNA levels. Our findings demonstrate that burst endplates, but not equienergetic loading, promotes DD. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:809–816, 2012
Gender and condylar differences in distal femur morphometry clarified by automated computer analyses
Authors: Li Kang , Langdale Evan , Tashman Scott , Harner Christopher , Zhang Xudong
Published: October 2011

We elucidated the gender and condylar effects on distal femur morphology (DFM) while evaluating a newly developed computational framework that enables fully automated analyses of DFM in an objectively defined sagittal plane. Ninety high‐resolution CT‐acquired distal femur models from 51 males and 39 females were analyzed. The models were accurately characterized (mean least‐squares fitting residual <0.16 mm), and re‐oriented to a unified sagittal plane; three morphometric measures were extracted from each model: the semi‐major (a) and semi‐minor (b) axis lengths of the best‐fitted ellipse, and the radius (r) of the smallest flexion facet—a circle with the smallest radius best‐fitted to the posterior articulating surface. Statistical analyses employing nonparametric repeated‐measures ANOVA found: no significance difference between condyles or between limbs in any of the morphometric measures; significant gender effects on a, b, and r, but no gender effect on the aspect ratio (a/b). An inspection of statistical distributions of medial‐lateral condyle size differences also revealed a gender difference. The findings promote a better understanding of DFM and its relation to knee mechanics and have implications on computer‐aided surgery of the knee and gender‐specific implant design. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:686–692, 2012
Did large ice caps persist on low ground in north‐west Scotland during the Lateglacial Interstade?
Authors: Ballantyne Colin K. , Stone John O.
Published: October 2011

Recent research based primarily on exposure ages of boulders on moraines has suggested that extensive ice masses persisted in fjords and across low ground in north‐west Scotland throughout the Lateglacial Interstade (≈ Greenland Interstade 1, ca. 14.7–12.9 ka), and that glacier ice was much more extensive in this area during the Older Dryas chronozone (ca. 14.0 ka) than during the Younger Dryas Stade (ca. 12.9–11.7 ka). We have recalibrated the same exposure age data using locally derived 10Be production rates. This increases the original mean ages by 6.5–12%, implying moraine deposition between ca. 14.3 and ca. 15.1 ka, and we infer a most probable age of ca. 14.7 ka based on palaeoclimatic considerations. The internal consistency of the ages implies that the dated moraines represent a single readvance of the ice margin (the Wester Ross Readvance). Pollen–stratigraphic evidence from a Lateglacial site at Loch Droma on the present drainage divide demonstrates deglaciation before ca. 14.0 ka, and therefore implies extensive deglaciation of all low ground and fjords in this area during the first half of the interstade (ca. 14.7–14.0 ka). This inference appears consistent with Lateglacial radiocarbon dates for shells recovered from glacimarine sediments and a dated tephra layer. Our revised chronology conflicts with earlier proposals that substantial dynamic ice caps persisted in Scotland between 14 and 13 ka, that large active glaciers probably survived throughout the Lateglacial Interstade and that ice extent was greater during the Older Dryas period than during the Younger Dryas Stade. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Perioperative and long‐term results of laparoscopic spleen‐preserving distal pancreatectomy with or without splenic vessels conservation: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Butturini Giovanni , Inama Marco , Malleo Giuseppe , Manfredi Riccardo , Melotti Gian Luigi , Piccoli Micaela , Perandini Simone , Pederzoli Paolo , Bassi Claudio
Published: October 2011

Background and Objectives

Laparoscopic spleen‐preserving distal pancreatectomy can be performed with or without splenic vessels conservation. The formation of perigastric varices is the main long‐term complication and represents the area of major concern among surgeons. Aim of this paper was to evaluate the outcomes of patients who underwent spleen‐preserving distal pancreatectomy (with or without splenic vessels conservation) at our institution.

Methods

Retrospective search of an electronic database from 1999 through 2007. Standard statistical methods were used.

Results

43 individuals were analyzed. Postoperative morbidity was 56%. Patients managed by splenic vessels conservation were 36; in the remaining seven splenic vessels resection was performed. Pathologic details and the rate postoperative complications were not different between the two groups. Two splenectomies were necessary for postoperative splenic infarction (one in each group). 28 patients accepted the follow‐up protocol. At 12 months, the rate of perigastric varices was 60.0% after splenic vessels resection and 21.7% after splenic vessels conservation (P = 0.123). No gastrointestinal bleeding occurred at a median follow‐up of 69 months (37–139).

Conclusion

Laparoscopic spleen‐preserving distal pancreatectomy is feasible. A moderate risk of postoperative splenic infarction has to be taken into account, and the formation of perigastric varices may be interpreted as a paraphysiologic phenomenon, especially after splenic vessels resection. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012;105:387–392. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
THE EFFECTS OF ACACIA TORTILIS SUBSP. RADDIANA, SOIL TEXTURE AND SOIL DEPTH ON SOIL MICROBIAL AND BIOCHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS IN ARID ZONES OF TUNISIA
Authors: Fterich A. , Mahdhi M. , Mars M.
Published: October 2011

The objectives of this study, conducted in Bou‐Hedma National Park, were to quantify the effects of the dominant legume Acacia tortilis subsp. raddiana on soil properties. Three sites with differing soil texture were studied; the first with a gravelly‐sand texture, the second with a sandy‐loam texture and the third with a loam texture. At each study site, two subhabitats were distinguished, under Acacia canopies (canopied soil) and open areas (uncanopied soil). Soil organic carbon, microbial biomass and microbial coefficient were found to be significantly greater in canopied soil, compared with uncanopied soil. The lower metabolic quotient under this legume indicated a higher carbon use efficiency of microorganisms in soil. The enzyme activities (dehydrogenase, phosphatase and β‐glucosidase) expressing soil microbial activity were significantly higher under Acacia canopies. Therefore, A. raddiana planting can be considered an effective and applicable measure to restore vegetation and control desertification in arid regions.

On account of the variability of soil texture in the park, three sites were studied: gravelly‐sand, sandy‐loam and loam soils. The highest microbial density and activity were registrated in sandy‐loam soil. Microbial biomass and activity increased gradually and significantly to a maximum at 20–30 cm and subsequently decreased at 30–50 cm. The results allow us to conclude that soil texture and soil depth can play an important role in the extent of soil properties. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Defect via differential forms with logarithmic poles
Authors: Cynk Sławomir , Rams Sławomir
Published: October 2011

We prove formulae for the Hodge numbers of big resolutions of singular hypersurfaces satisfying a Bott‐type vanishing condition.
Expression levels of the microRNA maturing microprocessor complex component DGCR8 and the RNA‐induced silencing complex (RISC) components argonaute‐1, argonaute‐2, PACT, TARBP1, and TARBP2 in epithelial skin cancer
Authors: Sand Michael , Skrygan Marina , Georgas Dimitrios , Arenz Christoph , Gambichler Thilo , Sand Daniel , Altmeyer Peter , Bechara Falk G.
Published: October 2011

The microprocessor complex mediates intranuclear biogenesis of precursor microRNAs from the primary microRNA transcript. Extranuclear, mature microRNAs are incorporated into the RNA‐induced silencing complex (RISC) before interaction with complementary target mRNA leads to transcriptional repression or cleavage. In this study, we investigated the expression profiles of the microprocessor complex subunit DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 8 (DGCR8) and the RISC components argonaute‐1 (AGO1), argonaute‐2 (AGO2), as well as double‐stranded RNA‐binding proteins PACT, TARBP1, and TARBP2 in epithelial skin cancer and its premalignant stage. Patients with premalignant actinic keratoses (AK, n = 6), basal cell carcinomas (BCC, n = 15), and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC, n = 7) were included in the study. Punch biopsies were harvested from the center of the tumors (lesional), from healthy skin sites (intraindividual controls), and from healthy skin sites in a healthy control group (n = 16; interindividual control). The DGCR8, AGO1, AGO2, PACT, TARBP1, and TARBP2 mRNA expression levels were detected by quantitative real‐time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The DGCR8, AGO1, AGO2, PACT, and TARBP1 expression levels were significantly higher in the AK, BCC, and SCC groups than the healthy controls (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the TARBP2 expression levels between groups (P > 0.05). This study indicates that major components of the miRNA pathway, such as the microprocessor complex and RISC, are dysregulated in epithelial skin cancer. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The central signal singularity phenomenon in balanced SSFP and its application to positive‐contrast imaging
Authors: Ingle R. Reeve , Çukur Tolga , Nishimura Dwight G.
Published: October 2011

Small perturbations of steady‐state sequence parameters can induce very large spectral profile deviations that are localized to specific off‐resonant frequencies, denoted critical frequencies. Although, a small number of studies have previously considered the use of these highly specific modulations for MR angiography and elastography, many potential applications still remain to be explored. An analysis of this phenomenon using a linear systems technique and a geometric magnetization trajectory technique shows that the critical frequencies correspond to singularities in the steady‐state signal equation. An interleaved acquisition combined with a complex difference technique yields a spectral profile containing sharp peaks interleaved with wide stopbands, while a complex sum technique yields a spectral profile similar to that of balanced steady‐state free precession. Simulations and phantom experiments are used to demonstrate a novel application of this technique for positive‐contrast imaging of superparamagnetic iron‐oxide nanoparticles. The technique is shown to yield images with high levels of positive contrast and good water and fat background suppression. The technique can also simultaneously yield images with contrast similar to balanced steady‐state free precession. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Network‐coding‐based cache policy for loss recovery enhancement in reliable multicast
Authors: Li Jung‐Shian , Liu Kun‐Hsuan
Published: October 2011

In local loss recovery schemes, a small number of recovery nodes distributed along the transmission paths save incoming packets temporarily in accordance with a specified cache policy and retransmit these packets if they subsequently receive a request message from a downstream receiver. To reduce the recovery latency, the cache policy should ensure that the recovery nodes are always able to satisfy the retransmission requests of the downstream receivers. However, owing to the limited cache size of the recovery nodes and the behavior of the cache policy, this cannot always be achieved, and thus some of the packets must be retransmitted by the sender. Accordingly, this paper develops a new network‐coding‐based cache policy, designated as network‐coding‐based FIFO (NCFIFO), which extends the caching time of the packets at the recovery nodes without dropping any of the incoming packets. As a result, the lost packets can be always recovered from the nearest recovery nodes and the recovery latency is significantly reduced. The loss recovery performance of the NCFIFO cache policy is compared with that of existing cache policies by performing a series of simulation experiments using both a uniform error model and a burst error model. The simulation results show that the NCFIFO cache policy not only achieves a better recovery performance than existing cache policies, but also provides a more effective solution for managing a small amount of cache size in environments characterized by a high packet arrival rate. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Energy demand‐side management: New perspectives for a new era
Authors: Carley Sanya
Published: October 2011

Over the past decade and a half, state governments have assumed greater responsibility over demand‐side management (DSM) operations. Whereas DSM programs formerly were initiated primarily by utilities or state public utility commissions, they are now becoming increasingly state‐initiated and incentivized through funding mechanisms or efficiency‐level mandates. The supporting literature, however, has yet to respond to these changes and to verify that DSM funding or mandates are effective policy mechanisms. Furthermore, the supporting literature has yet to resolve some of the research design and methodological challenges that traditionally plague DSM evaluations. As states continue to expand their energy and climate policy efforts, and the federal government considers the possibility of national decarbonization policies, of which DSM is a key strategy, the need for empirical research on the effectiveness of DSM programs will grow. This essay describes the current status of DSM efforts in the U.S. and explores how these programs affect electricity operations. The relationship between DSM policy and program efforts and the amount of saved electricity is tested with a methodological approach aimed at minimizing the selection bias that is inherent in the nonexperimental research design. Results confirm that state‐run DSM efforts contribute to electricity savings across the country. Public benefit funds coupled with performance incentives are found to encourage utility participation in DSM programs. Energy efficiency portfolio standards and performance incentives effectively promote electricity savings, but public benefit funds without the support of other DSM policies are not significant drivers of either DSM program participation or total DSM electricity savings. © 2011 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Long‐term care: Common issues and unknowns
Authors: Swartz Katherine , Miake Naoko , Farag Nadine
Published: October 2011

All industrialized countries are grappling with a common problem—how to provide assistance of various kinds to their rapidly aging populations. The problem for countries searching for models of efficient and high‐quality long‐term care (LTC) policies is that fewer than a dozen countries have government‐organized, formal LTC policies. Relatively new surveys focused on the elderly populations of about 25 countries could become the basis for research on which LTC policy design choices have desired outcomes for individuals and society and might be replicable in other countries. As in earlier decades when U.S. researchers created the Current Population Survey (CPS) modules and the Survey of Income and Program Participation to answer policy questions, researchers and policy analysts are now at a point where a concerted effort is needed to generate questions that international comparative research on LTC could answer as well as the data needed to address the questions. © 2011 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Influence of fetal respiratory movements on left atrial functional status
Authors: de Fátima Monteiro Pereira Leite Maria , Zielinsky Paulo , Benchimol‐Barbosa Paulo Roberto , Nicoloso Luiz Henrique , Luchese Stelamaris , Piccoli Antonio Luiz , Naujorks Alexandre Antonio
Published: October 2011

Objective

Because fetal respiratory movements increase left ventricular compliance, we hypothesized that the left atrial shortening fraction increases during fetal respiratory motions.

Methods

A group of 26 normal fetuses with gestational ages between 28 and 38 weeks were assessed in a prospective cross‐sectional study. Left atrial telesystolic and presystolic diameters were measured during apnea and after five consecutive respiratory movements. Left atrial shortening fraction was obtained by the ratio: [maximal left atrium diameter (telesystolic) – minimal left atrium diameter (presystolic)]/maximal left atrium diameter (telesystolic). The mean of three measurements were considered. Two‐tailed Student's t‐test was used.

Results

Mean gestational age was (mean ± SD) 30.7 ± 2.8 weeks. Mean left atrial telesystolic diameter in apnea was 10.6 ± 0.7 mm and during respiratory movements it was 10.5 ± 1.1 mm (p = 0.98). Presystolic left atrial diameter was 5.2 ± 0.1 mm in apnea and 4.4 ± 1.3 mm during respiratory movements (p < 0.001). Left atrial shortening fraction was 0.50 ± 0.05 in apnea and 0.58 ± 0.13 during respiratory movements (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Left atrial shortening fraction is higher during respiratory movements as a result of increased left ventricular compliance and consequent optimization of left atrial functional status. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Meeting patients' education and decision‐making needs for first trimester prenatal aneuploidy screening
Authors: Farrell Ruth M. , Nutter Benjamin , Agatisa Patricia K.
Published: October 2011

Objective

First trimester aneuploidy screening introduces unique challenges to patient education and informed decision‐making. Our study assessed the decision‐making process among those pregnant patients presenting for this new form of aneuploidy screening.

Method

A survey instrument was used to assess components of decision‐making among women who presented for first trimester aneuploidy screening. Knowledge and leading factors in the decision‐making process were measured.

Results

Participants (n = 139) demonstrated understanding of the etiology of Down syndrome, but less understanding of its cognitive (65.2%) and physical manifestations (58.7%). Few were able to determine risk from first trimester screen results (36.7%). Participants were more familiar with amniocentesis (84.2%) than chorionic villus sampling (73.4%), though less familiar with procedural risks (29.5% and 28.1%, respectively). The majority of participants ranked the following as key information in their decision: knowledge of their intentions about the outcome of the pregnancy based on the test results (92.4%), knowledge of chorionic villus sampling to evaluate an abnormal result (92.0%), and values and beliefs about termination (89.1%).

Conclusion

First trimester aneuploidy screening generates education and decision‐making benchmarks for patients and providers. It is important to address these barriers as this new screen becomes a growing part of current prenatal genetic testing offerings. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intraoperator and interoperator repeatability of manual and semi‐automated measurement of increased fetal nuchal translucency according to the operator's experience
Authors: Kagan Karl Oliver , Abele Harald , Yazdi Britta , Böer Bettina , Pintoffl Klaus , Wright Dave , Hoopmann Markus
Published: October 2011

Objective

To compare the intraoperator and interoperator repeatability of manual and semi‐automated measurement of increased nuchal translucency (NT) in sonographers with different levels of experience.

Methods

One hundred NT images without measurements were selected from the digital database. Half had NT measurements between 2.5 and 3.5 mm, and half had NT measurements above 3.5 mm. Five operators (two experts, three general gynaecologist) measured fetal NT manually and automatically. Each operator was blinded to any pre‐existing measurements. Each image was measured twice by each operator. Intraoperator repeatability was assessed by standard deviation of within sonographer repeated measurement. Interoperator repeatability was assessed as difference towards the gold standard, which was defined as the mean measurement of experts.

Results

The overall standard deviation of the difference between the first and the second manual measurements was 0.14 and 0.10 mm for moderate and severely increased NT. It was 0.10 and 0.08 mm with the semi‐automated system. Mean difference between the manual measurement of nonexpert operators and the gold standard was −0.01 mm for moderately increased NT and 0.02 mm for severely increased NT. With the semi‐automated measurement, mean bias was similar.

Conclusion

The automated NT measurement leads to a further standardization of the NT assessment process. Especially inexperienced operators may benefit from this tool. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performance of first‐trimester combined test for Down syndrome in different maternal age groups: reason for adjustments in screening policy?
Authors: Engels Melanie A. J. , Heijboer A. C. , Blankenstein Marinus A. , van Vugt John M. G.
Published: October 2011

Objective

To evaluate the performance of the first‐trimester combined test (FCT) in different maternal age groups and to discuss whether adjustments in screening policies should be made.

Methods

In this retrospective study data (n = 26 274) from a fetal medicine center on FCT (maternal age, fetal NT, free β‐human chorionic gonadotrophin, pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A) were studied.

Results

70.6% of cases was <36 years and 43% of the Down syndrome (DS) cases were detected in this age group. For women <36 years and advanced maternal age (AMA) women (≥36 years) detection rate (DR) and false positive rate (FPR) were 94.5% and 4.1%, and 95.8% and 13.0%, respectively (cut‐off 1:200). Lowering the cut‐off showed an improved balance in DR and FPR. With increasing maternal age FPR and DR increased and odds of being affected given a positive result (OAPR) decreased.

Conclusion

FCT is effective in women <36 and ≥36 years. The balance between FPR and DR is more favourable in women <36 years with comparable OAPR. Although FPR increases with increasing maternal age, performance of FCT in AMA women is more effective than screening based on maternal age alone. Lowering the cut‐off to 1:100 in AMA women is suggested to improve screening performance. Routinely offering diagnostic testing to AMA women as a screening policy for the detection of DS seems not reasonable. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gene expression profiles and differential cytoglobin expression in atrophy and adenocarcinoma of the prostate
Authors: Mogal Ashish P. , Watson Mark A. , Ozsolak Fatih , Salavaggione Lorena , Humphrey Peter A.
Published: October 2011

BACKGROUND

Proliferative inflammatory atrophy (PIA) has been proposed as a potential precursor for prostate cancer. The precise molecular abnormalities in prostatic atrophy compared to high‐grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) and carcinoma have not been fully defined.

METHODS

We utilized laser capture microdissection and microarray analysis to characterize cells of PIA, HGPIN, invasive prostatic carcinoma, and non‐atrophic benign prostatic epithelium (NABE). Cytoglobin was selected for immunohistochemistry (IHC) validation. IHC stains were evaluated for proportion of positive glands, and intensity of cytoglobin staining. An immunoreactive score (IR score) was determined as the product of the percentage of positive staining and intensity.

RESULTS

Microarray analysis revealed probe sets that separated the microdissected cell types. Several genes showed overlapping expression patterns between PIA and PIN, and HGPIN and invasive carcinoma. Cytoglobin protein expression was detected in 57/93 (61%) of NABE and BPH cases, 92/93 atrophy (99%), 3/34 (9%) of PIN, and 23/61 carcinoma (37%) samples. The highest IHC scores were calculated for atrophy foci. A subset (33%) of atrophy cases showed the same low‐cytoglobin expression level as PIN and carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Prostatic epithelium can be stratified into normal, atrophic, PIN, and invasive carcinoma categories based on differential genetic signatures. Cytoglobin, a protein that can be induced in response to oxidative stress, was elevated in most atrophy foci, suggesting hypoxic, and/or oxidative damage. The lower level of cytoglobin seen in neoplastic cells and 33% of atrophy foci may indicate a shared susceptibility to oxidative damage for this subset of atrophy cases and prostatic neoplasia. Prostate 72:931–937, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Knockdown of scavenger receptor Class B Type I reduces prostate specific antigen secretion and viability of prostate cancer cells
Authors: Twiddy Alexis L. , Cox Michael E. , Wasan Kishor M.
Published: October 2011

BACKGROUND

Scavenger Receptor Class B Type I (SR‐BI) facilitates influx of cholesterol to the cell from lipoproteins in the circulation. This influx of cholesterol may be important for many cellular functions, including synthesis of androgens. Castration‐resistant prostate cancer tumors are able to synthesize androgens de novo in order to supplement the loss of exogenous sources often induced by androgen deprivation therapy. Silencing of SR‐BI may impact the ability of prostate cancer cells, particularly those of castration‐resistant state, to maintain the intracellular supply of androgens by removing a supply of cholesterol.

METHODS

SR‐BI expression was knocked down using small interfering RNA in LNCaP and C4‐2 cells. The effect of down‐regulation of SR‐BI on PSA production, cell toxicity, and cell viability was measured in both cell types. In addition, compensatory cholesterol synthesis activity was measured using the radiolabeled precursor, 14C‐acetate.

RESULTS

SR‐BI protein expression is higher basally in C4‐2 cells than LNCaP cells. Silencing of SR‐BI expression to greater than 85% reduced PSA production in LNCaP and C4‐2 SRBI‐KD cells by 55% and 58% compared to negative control cells, respectively. SR‐BI‐KD C4‐2 cells demonstrated significantly reduced cell viability (>25%) compared the NC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The down‐regulation of SR‐BI significantly impacts PSA production of prostate cancer cells, as well as the viability of C4‐2 cells in the presence and absence of HDL. This may indicate a deficiency in cholesterol availability to the androgen synthesis pathway or may implicate a role for SR‐BI in prostate cancer signal transduction pathways. Prostate 72:955–965, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.