bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
B-Cell-Activating Factor Affects the Occurrence of Thyroid Autoimmunity in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Treated with Interferon Alpha
Authors: Kajiyama Yusuke , Kikuchi Kentaro , Takai Atsuko , Hosoya Naomi , Hoshino Hiromi , Hino Kunihiko , Miyakawa Hiroshi
Published: February 2012

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients frequently suffer from thyroid disorders during interferon therapy. However, the mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the association between serum B-cell-activating factor belonging to the TNF family (BAFF) levels and the presence of antithyroid peroxidase antibody (anti-TPO) in CHC patients treated with pegylated interferon alpha and ribavirin combination therapy. Six months after the therapy, anti-TPO antibody was detected in 10 (males, 1; females, 9) of 50 patients. The mean age of these patients was higher than that of the anti-TPO-negative patients (61 yr versus 55 yr). Before treatment, the serum BAFF levels of the anti-TPO-positive patients were higher than those of the anti-TPO-negative patients. After starting therapy, the serum BAFF levels of both the anti-TPO-positive and -negative patient groups were elevated. Our findings suggest that the serum BAFF concentration before therapy can predict the risk of thyroid autoimmunity in elderly female patients with CHC.
A Cell Model for Conditional Profiling of Androgen-Receptor-Interacting Proteins
Authors: Mooslehner K. A. , Davies J. D. , Hughes I. A.
Published: February 2012

Partial androgen insensitivity syndrome (PAIS) is associated with impaired male genital development and can be transmitted through mutations in the androgen receptor (AR). The aim of this study is to develop a cell model suitable for studying the impact AR mutations might have on AR interacting proteins. For this purpose, male genital development relevant mouse cell lines were genetically modified to express a tagged version of wild-type AR, allowing copurification of multiprotein complexes under native conditions followed by mass spectrometry. We report 57 known wild-type AR-interacting proteins identified in cells grown under proliferating and 65 under nonproliferating conditions. Of those, 47 were common to both samples suggesting different AR protein complex components in proliferating and proliferation-inhibited cells from the mouse proximal caput epididymus. These preliminary results now allow future studies to focus on replacing wild-type AR with mutant AR to uncover differences in protein interactions caused by AR mutations involved in PAIS.
Design and Characterization of a Silk-Fibroin-Based Drug Delivery Platform Using Naproxen as a Model Drug
Authors: Dyakonov Tatyana , Yang Chue Hue , Bush Derek , Gosangari Saujanya , Majuru Shingai , Fatmi Aqeel
Published: February 2012

The objective of this proof-of-concept study was to develop a platform for controlled drug delivery based on silk fibroin (SF) and to explore the feasibility of using SF in oral drug delivery. The SF-containing matrixes were prepared via spray-drying and film casting, and the release profile of the model drug naproxen sodium was evaluated. Attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) has been used to observe conformational changes in SF- and drug-containing compositions. SF-based films, spray-dried microparticles, and matrixes loaded with naproxen were prepared. Both FTIR spectra and in vitro dissolution data demonstrated that SF β-sheet conformation regulates the release profile of naproxen. The controlled release characteristics of the SF-containing compositions were evaluated as a function of SF concentration, temperature, and exposure to dehydrating solvents. The results suggest that SF may be an attractive polymer for use in controlled drug delivery systems.
Evaluation of a Novel Rapid Test System for the Detection of Specific IgE to Hymenoptera Venoms
Authors: Pfender Nikolai , Lucassen Ralf , Offermann Nadine , Schulte-Pelkum Johannes , Fooke Margrit , Jakob Thilo
Published: February 2012

Background. The Allergy Lateral Flow Assay (ALFA) is a novel rapid assay for the detection of sIgE to allergens. The objective of this study is the evaluation of ALFA for the detection of sIgE to bee venom (BV) and wasp venom (WV) in insect venom allergic patients. Methods. Specific IgE to BV and WV was analyzed by ALFA, ALLERG-O-LIQ, and ImmunoCAP in 80 insect venom allergic patients and 60 control sera. Sensitivity and specificity of ALFA and correlation of ALFA and ImmunoCAP results were calculated. Results. The sensitivity/specificity of ALFA to the diagnosis was 100%/83% for BV and 82%/97% for WV. For insect venom allergic patients, the Spearman correlation coefficient for ALFA versus ImmunoCAP was 0.79 for BV and 0.80 for WV. However, significant differences in the negative control groups were observed. Conclusion. ALFA represents a simple, robust, and reliable tool for the rapid detection of sIgE to insect venoms.
An Analytical Approximation Method for Strongly Nonlinear Oscillators
Authors: Shimin Wang , Lechang Yang
Published: February 2012

An analytical method is proposed to get the amplitude‐frequency and the phase‐frequency characteristics of free/forced oscillators with nonlinear restoring force. The nonlinear restoring force is expressed as a spring with varying stiffness that depends on the vibration amplitude. That is, for stationary vibration, the restoring force linearly depends on the displacement, but the stiffness of the spring varies with the vibration amplitude for nonstationary oscillations. The varied stiffness is constructed by means of the first and second averaged derivatives of the restoring force with respect to the displacement. Then, this stiffness gives the amplitude frequency and the phase frequency characteristics of the oscillator. Various examples show that this method can be applied extensively to oscillators with nonlinear restoring force, and that the solving process is extremely simple.
Poisson Noise Removal Scheme Based on Fourth‐Order PDE by Alternating Minimization Algorithm
Authors: Zhou Weifeng , Li Qingguo
Published: February 2012

To overcome the staircasing effects introduced by the TV regularization in image
restoration, this paper investigates a fourth‐order partial differential equation (PDE) filter for
removing Poisson noise. In consideration of the slow convergence property of the classical
gradient descent method, we adopt the alternating minimization algorithm for realizing this
scheme. Compared with the corresponding total variation based one, numerical simulations
distinctly indicate the superiority of our proposed strategy in handling smooth regions of
Poissonian images and improving the computational speed.
“Men of Gallio's Naughty Faith?”: The Aberdeen Doctors on Reformed and Lutheran Concord
Authors: Denlinger Aaron Clay
Published: February 2012

In 1637 the Aberdeen Doctors, in response to a request by the irenicist John Dury, penned a treatise proposing fraternal peace between Reformed and Lutheran churches in Europe. Despite common recognition of the Doctors as early-modern irenicists if not forerunners of modern ecumenism, their treatise on Protestant unity has attracted little scholarly interest. The only modern scholar to comment upon that work perceived heteredox impulses at work in the Doctors' proposal.

Through careful analysis of the Doctors' treatise and comparison of it to early modern Reformed works of the same genre, this article aims to shed greater light on the nature—the grounds, scope, and limits—of the Doctors' irenicism. Against the judgment that their proposal for peace marked some level of departure from the confessional orthodoxy of their day, their work is shown to be thoroughly consistent with, and very likely indebted to, programs for Protestant peace advanced by orthodox peers and predecessors in the international Reformed tradition.
Modeling Seasonal Tropical Cyclone Activity in the Fiji Region as a Binary Classification Problem
Authors: Chand Savin S. , Walsh Kevin J. E.
Published: February 2012

This study presents a binary classification model for the prediction of tropical cyclone (TC) activity in the Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga regions (the FST region) using the accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) as a proxy of TC activity. A probit regression model, which is a suitable probability model for describing binary response data, is developed to determine at least a few months in advance (by July in this case) the probability that an upcoming TC season may have for high or low TC activity. Years of “high TC activity” are defined as those years when ACE values exceeded the sample climatology (i.e., the 1985–2008 mean value). Model parameters are determined using the Bayesian method. Various combinations of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) indices and large-scale environmental conditions that are known to affect TCs in the FST region are examined as potential predictors. It was found that a set of predictors comprising low-level relative vorticity, upper-level divergence, and midtropspheric relative humidity provided the best skill in terms of minimum hindcast error. Results based on hindcast verification clearly suggest that the model predicts TC activity in the FST region with substantial skill up to the May–July preseason for all years considered in the analysis, in particular for ENSO-neutral years when TC activity is known to show large variations.
Fine mapping of a linkage peak with integration of lipid traits identifies novel coronary artery disease genes on chromosome 5
Authors: Nolan Daniel K , Sutton Beth , Haynes Carol , Johnson Jessica , Sebek Jacqueline , Dowdy Elaine , Crosslin David , Crossman David , Sketch Michael H , Granger Christopher B , Seo David , Goldschmidt-Clermont Pascal , Kraus William E , Gregory Simon G , Hauser Elizabeth R , Shah Svati H
Published: February 2012

Background

Coronary artery disease (CAD), and one of its intermediate risk factors, dyslipidemia, possess a demonstrable genetic component, although the genetic architecture is incompletely defined. We previously reported a linkage peak on chromosome 5q31-33 for early-onset CAD where the strength of evidence for linkage was increased in families with higher mean low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C). Therefore, we sought to fine-map the peak using association mapping of LDL-C as an intermediate disease-related trait to further define the etiology of this linkage peak. The study populations consisted of 1908 individuals from the CATHGEN biorepository of patients undergoing cardiac catheterization; 254 families (N = 827 individuals) from the GENECARD familial study of early-onset CAD; and 162 aorta samples harvested from deceased donors. Linkage disequilibrium-tagged SNPs were selected with an average of one SNP per 20 kb for 126.6-160.2 MB (region of highest linkage) and less dense spacing (one SNP per 50 kb) for the flanking regions (117.7-126.6 and 160.2-167.5 MB) and genotyped on all samples using a custom Illumina array. Association analysis of each SNP with LDL-C was performed using multivariable linear regression (CATHGEN) and the quantitative trait transmission disequilibrium test (QTDT; GENECARD). SNPs associated with the intermediate quantitative trait, LDL-C, were then assessed for association with CAD (i.e., a qualitative phenotype) using linkage and association in the presence of linkage (APL; GENECARD) and logistic regression (CATHGEN and aortas).

Results

We identified four genes with SNPs that showed the strongest and most consistent associations with LDL-C and CAD: EBF1, PPP2R2B, SPOCK1, and PRELID2. The most significant results for association of SNPs with LDL-C were: EBF1, rs6865969, p = 0.01; PPP2R2B, rs2125443, p = 0.005; SPOCK1, rs17600115, p = 0.003; and PRELID2, rs10074645, p = 0.0002). The most significant results for CAD were EBF1, rs6865969, p = 0.007; PPP2R2B, rs7736604, p = 0.0003; SPOCK1, rs17170899, p = 0.004; and PRELID2, rs7713855, p = 0.003.

Conclusion

Using an intermediate disease-related quantitative trait of LDL-C we have identified four novel CAD genes, EBF1, PRELID2, SPOCK1, and PPP2R2B. These four genes should be further examined in future functional studies as candidate susceptibility loci for cardiovascular disease mediated through LDL-cholesterol pathways.
Congruence as a measurement of extended haplotype structure across the genome
Authors: Baschal Erin E , Jasinski Jean M , Boyle Theresa A , Fain Pamela R , Eisenbarth George S , Siebert Janet C
Published: February 2012

Background

Historically, extended haplotypes have been defined using only a few data points, such as alleles for several HLA genes in the MHC. High-density SNP data, and the increasing affordability of whole genome SNP typing, creates the opportunity to define higher resolution extended haplotypes. This drives the need for new tools that support quantification and visualization of extended haplotypes as defined by as many as 2000 SNPs. Confronted with high-density SNP data across the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) for 2,300 complete families, compiled by the Type 1 Diabetes Genetics Consortium (T1DGC), we developed software for studying extended haplotypes.

Methods

The software, called ExHap (Extended Haplotype), uses a similarity measurement we term congruence to identify and quantify long-range allele identity. Using ExHap, we analyzed congruence in both the T1DGC data and family-phased data from the International HapMap Project.

Results

Congruent chromosomes from the T1DGC data have between 96.5% and 99.9% allele identity over 1,818 SNPs spanning 2.64 megabases of the MHC (HLA-DRB1 to HLA-A). Thirty-three of 132 DQ-DR-B-A defined haplotype groups have > 50% congruent chromosomes in this region. For example, 92% of chromosomes within the DR3-B8-A1 haplotype are congruent from HLA-DRB1 to HLA-A (99.8% allele identity). We also applied ExHap to all 22 autosomes for both CEU and YRI cohorts from the International HapMap Project, identifying multiple candidate extended haplotypes.

Conclusions

Long-range congruence is not unique to the MHC region. Patterns of allele identity on phased chromosomes provide a simple, straightforward approach to visually and quantitatively inspect complex long-range structural patterns in the genome. Such patterns aid the biologist in appreciating genetic similarities and differences across cohorts, and can lead to hypothesis generation for subsequent studies.
The antinociceptive effect of electroacupuncture at different depths of acupoints and under the needling surface
Authors: Silva Marcelo L , Silva Josie RT , Prado Wiliam A
Published: February 2012

Background

The stimulation of acupoints along the meridians, but not the non-acupoints outside of the meridians, produces analgesia. Although the acupoint is defined at the body surface, the exact location of the acupoints is not known. This study aims to examine whether the intensity and duration of the analgesic effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at the Zusanli (ST36) and Sanynjiao acupoints (SP6) change according to the depth of the stimulation.

Methods

Ninety-six male Wistar rats classified as responders were arbitrarily allocated into 16 groups of six rats each. Six groups received EA with uninsulated acupuncture needles (type I) or needles that were immersed in varnish and had the varnish circularly peeled 0.2 mm from the tip (type II), 0.2 mm at 3 mm (type III) or 5 mm (type IV) from the tip, or 0.2 mm at 5 and 1 mm from the tip (type V), or EA sham for 20 min. Five groups received injection of formalin into the acupoint bilaterally at 5 mm or 1 mm deep into ST36, 5 mm below ST36 but inserting the needle at 45° to the skin surface, or 5 mm deep into non-acupoints. The remaining groups received intraplantar injection of saline, 1% or 2.5% formalin. The analgesic effects were measured by the rat tail-flick test.

Results

The bilateral stimulation of ST36 and SP6 by uninsulated or insulated needles produced analgesia in the rat tail-flick test. The stronger and longer lasting effects occurred after EA with the types I and V needles, or injection of formalin 5 mm deep into ST36. The remaining needles produced weaker and shorter lasting effects. Slow analgesic effect also occurred after formalin injection at 1 mm or 5 mm below ST36 by inserting the needle at 45° to the skin surface.

Conclusion

The experimental results suggest that the efficacy of the EA stimulation depends on the spatial distribution of the current density under the needling surface rather than only the acupoint or the depth of needling.
Local delivery of AAV2-CTLA4IgG decreases sialadenitis and improves gland function in the C57BL/6.NOD-Aec1Aec2mouse model of Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Yin Hongen , Nguyen Cuong Q , Samuni Yuval , Uede Toshimitsu , Peck Ammon B , Chiorini John A
Published: February 2012

Introduction

Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) is a key negative costimulatory molecule that displays a wide range of anti-inflammatory properties and is currently approved to treat rheumatoid arthritis as a recombinant fusion protein (CTLA4IgG). To better understand the role of CTLA4IgG in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS), we generated a recombinant adeno-associated virus vector serotype 2 (AAV2) expressing a chimera of mouse CTLA-4 fused with a human immunoglobulin (AAV2-CTLA4IgG) and observed the effect of this molecule in C57BL/6.NOD-Aec1Aec2 mice, an animal model of pSS.

Methods

A recombinant adeno-associated virus-2 (AAV-2) vector was constructed encoding a CTLA4IgG fusion protein. The AAV2-CTLA4IgG vector and an AAV2 control vector encoding beta galactosidase (LacZ) were administered by retrograde cannulation of the submandibular glands of C57BL/6.NOD-Aec1Aec2 mice. Protein expression was measured by ELISA and salivary glands were assessed for inflammation and activity.

Results

Recombinant CTLA4IgG blocked B7 expression on macrophages in vitro. In vivo, localized expression of CTLA4IgG in the salivary glands of C57BL/6.NOD-Aec1Aec2 mice inhibited the loss of salivary gland activity and decreased T and B cell infiltration as well as dendritic cells and macrophages in the glands compared with control mice. In addition a decrease in several proinflammatory cytokines and an increase in transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) expression were also observed.

Conclusions

These data suggest expression of CTLA4IgG in the salivary gland can decrease the inflammation and improve the xerostomia reported in these mice.
Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor for Supersensitive Detection of Clenbuterol Using Molecularly Imprinted Film
Authors: Bao Han , Wei Tianxin , Meng Huijuan , Liu Baoxing
Published: February 2012

The supersensitive detection of clenbuterol was achieved by a method of combining molecularly imprinted polymer with surface plasmon resonance in this article. The detection limit of clenbuterol was 1 × 10−15 mol L−1, and the changes in resonance angle (Δθ) had a good linear relationship with the logarithm of clenbuterol concentration in the range from 1 × 10−15–1 × 10−7 mol L−1. Selectivity experiment showed that no Δθ was observed in response to salbutamol until the concentration of 1 × 10−5 mol L−1.
Red-light-induced Photoreaction of DMS–O3 Complex in a Cryogenic Neon Matrix
Authors: Wakamatsu Daisuke , Akai Nobuyuki , Kawai Akio , Shibuya Kazuhiko
Published: February 2012

Photoreaction and light absorption of dimethyl sulfide (DMS)–O3 complex isolated in a cryogenic neon matrix were investigated by FTIR and visible-light absorption spectroscopy. Although visible light does not induce photoreaction for either monomer, a photoreaction to produce dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was observed to occur upon the red light (700–740 nm) irradiation. New electronic absorption bands peaking at 470 and 600 nm due to DMS–O3 complex appear in a visible spectral region, which are responsible for the photooxidation of DMS to DMSO.
All-solid-state Lithium Secondary Batteries Using Li2S–P2S5 Solid Electrolytes and LiFePO4 Electrode Particles with Amorphous Surface Layer
Authors: Sakuda Atsushi , Kitaura Hirokazu , Hayashi Akitoshi , Tatsumisago Masahiro , Hosoda Yohei , Nagakane Tomohiro , Sakamoto Akihiko
Published: February 2012

All-solid-state batteries using Li2S–P2S5 solid electrolyte and LiFePO4 glass ceramic electrode particles were constructed. The batteries were charged and discharged with reversible capacity of 110 mA h g−1. Amorphous oxide surface layer formed on LiFePO4 glass ceramic particles improved interfacial properties between LiFePO4 electrode and Li2S–P2S5 solid electrolytes.
Immobilization of Arsenic(V) during the Transformation of Ferrihydrite: A Direct Speciation Study Using Synchrotron-based XAFS Spectroscopy
Authors: Muramatsu Chihiro , Sakata Masahiro , Mitsunobu Satoshi
Published: February 2012

In the present study, we investigated the behavior of arsenic (As) during the transformation of poorly crystalline iron(III) hydroxide, ferrihydrite. Adsorbed As on solids gradually decreased as ferrihydrite transformed to crystalline goethite and hematite. X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) analysis indicated that the As immobilization dominantly resulted from the incorporation of arsenate into poorly crystalline ferrihydrite under present experimental conditions.
Environmentally Friendly Tetrahydrofuranylation of Alcohols Using NaHSO4–SiO2 under Solvent-free Conditions
Authors: Kinfe Henok H , Terblanche Sullivan , Tshivhase Konanani D , Ravhura Livhuwani
Published: February 2012

A simple, environmentally friendly, and efficient tetrahydrofuranylation of alcohols has been developed using NaHSO4–SiO2 (0.5 mol %) as a catalyst under solvent-free conditions to yield corresponding THF ethers in good to excellent yields.
A Novel Sol–Gel Approach to Highly Condensed Silicas at Low Temperature
Authors: Jorapur Yogesh R , Mizoshita Norihiro , Maegawa Yoshifumi , Nakagawa Hiroki , Hasegawa Takeru , Tani Takao , Inagaki Shinji , Shimada Toyoshi
Published: February 2012

We have discovered new Meerwein’s reagent-catalyzed sol–gel polycondensations, which provide highly condensed silica Q4 and biphenylylene silica T3 as amorphous gels with marginal silanols starting from TEOS and 4,4′-bis(triethoxysilyl)biphenyl (BTEBph), respectively. We propose a plausible pathway for this protocol with possible silyloxonium intermediates.
Concentration-dependent Fluorescence Properties of a Water-soluble Perylene Ammonium Derivative in Solutions and Polymer Matrices
Authors: Ito Fuyuki , Ugachi Yuri , Sasaki Tomoko
Published: February 2012

A water-soluble perylene ammonium derivative was synthesized and its fluorescence spectra in solution and in polymer matrices were measured as a function of concentration. The concentration-dependent fluorescence spectral change in polymer films is useful for probing the initial processes of crystal nuclei growth by matrix isolation and/or freezing.
Neutron Diffraction and IR Spectroscopy Study on Crystalline Complexation of Syndiotactic Polystyrene with 15-Crown-5 and 18-Crown-6
Authors: Kaneko Fumitoshi , Sasaki Keita , Kawaguchi Tatsuya , Ute Koichi , Hester James
Published: February 2012

Neutron diffraction experiments were carried out in order to confirm that syndiotactic polystyrene (sPS) forms crystalline complexes with 15-crown-5 (15C5) and 18-crown-6 (18C6). A strong 010 reflection was observed in both sPS/15C5 and sPS/18C6 systems, which indicates a crystalline structure where crown ether molecules are sandwiched by polymer sheets consisting of sPS helices. It was also confirmed by IR spectroscopy that the orientation of host sPS lattice was preserved during the complexation using guest-exchange phenomenon.
Site-selective Deposition of Graphene Oxide Layer on Patterned Self-assembled Monolayer
Authors: Cho Hong Yeon , Han Chul Jong , In Insik
Published: February 2012

Patterned graphene oxide (GO) layer is prepared by site-selective deposition of GO on patterned self-assembled monolayer (SAM). Deep ultraviolet (DUV) exposure on octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) SAM through photomask produces hydrophobic/hydrophilic pattern, and the hydrophilic region is reacted with aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES), which is preferentially wetted with GO through ionic interaction between carboxylic acid groups of GO and amino groups of APTES SAM. As-prepared GO pattern can be further transformed to chemically reduced graphene oxide (RGO) pattern after chemical reduction with hydrazine. Both Raman and electrical conductivity measurements confirm the successive preparation of RGO pattern.
Measurement of Gas- and Particle-phase Organic Species in Diesel Exhaust Using Vacuum Ultraviolet Single Photon Ionization Time-of-flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Kambe Yasuaki , Yamamoto Yukio , Yamada Hiroyuki , Tonokura Kenichi
Published: February 2012

Organic compounds present in diesel exhaust were measured using vacuum ultraviolet single photon ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry while heating the inlet line at high and low temperatures. Increases in signal intensities were observed when the inlet was heated at 623 K because of enhanced volatilization of the organic fraction emitted in the particle phase.
Isolation of Enantiopure Crystals and Spectroscopic Properties of a Chiral Er-Containing Polyoxotungstate [Er(α2-P2W17O61)2]17−
Authors: Iijima Jun , Naruke Haruo , Sanji Takanobu
Published: February 2012

Enantiopure crystals of chiral [l-/d-Er(α2-P2W17O61)2]17− polyanions were successfully resolved by using l-/d-proline (pro) as chiral auxiliaries. In both crystals, the chirality was stabilized by enantioselective interaction involving N–H···O hydrogen bonding between the polyanion and pro molecules. Circular dichroic spectroscopy in aqueous solutions revealed that partial racemization of the polyanions and the racemic equilibrium can be enantioselectively controlled by the amount of coexisting pro.
Morphological Change of Vesicle Particles Can Produce a Peculiar Stepwise Transition in Dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol Bilayer at High NaCl Concentration
Authors: Tanaka Saeko , Tamai Nobutake , Goto Masaki , Kaneshina Shoji , Matsuki Hitoshi
Published: February 2012

Complete formation of the most stable lamellar crystal (Lc2) phase was achieved for dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol (DPPG) bilayer membrane in 1.0 mol kg−1 aqueous NaCl solution. A peculiar stepwise transition was observed from the differential scanning calorimetric measurements when the Lc2 phase was completely formed. This is probably relevant to the morphological change from rod-like or cylindrical particles to spherical vesicles concomitant with the transition.
Facile Synthesis of Functional Alkoxysilane Precursor with Short Linkers toward Organosilica Hybrids with a High Density of Chromophores
Authors: Maegawa Yoshifumi , Mizoshita Norihiro , Tani Takao , Inagaki Shinji
Published: February 2012

Tetraphenylpyrene (TPPy)-bridged alkoxysilane precursors with short linkers were synthesized by development of a facile synthetic route, and sol–gel polymerized to transparent organosilica films which showed higher absoption coefficient than the conventional route due to dense accumulation of TPPy units in the films.
The role of arthroscopic synovectomy in patients with undifferentiated chronic monoarthritis of the wrist
Authors: Kim S. M. , Park M. J. , Kang H. J. , Choi Y. L. , Lee J. J.
Published: February 2012

We investigated the clinical response to arthroscopic synovectomy in patients with undifferentiated chronic monoarthritis (UCMA) of the wrist. Arthroscopic synovectomy was performed on 20 wrists in 20 patients with UCMA of the wrist who had not responded to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The mean duration of symptoms at the time of surgery was 4.3 months (3 to 7) and the mean follow-up was 51.8 months (24 to 94). Inflamed synovium was completely removed from the radiocarpal, midcarpal and distal radioulnar joints using more portals than normal. After surgery, nine patients had early remission of synovitis and 11 with uncontrolled synovitis received antirheumatic medication. Overall, there was significant improvement in terms of pain relief, range of movement and Mayo score. Radiological deterioration was seen in five patients who were diagnosed as having rheumatoid arthritis during the follow-up period. Lymphoid follicles and severe lymphocyte infiltration were seen more often in synovial biopsies from patients with uncontrolled synovitis.

These results suggest that arthroscopic synovectomy provides pain relief and functional improvement, and allows rapid resolution of synovitis in about half of patients with UCMA of the wrist.
Food and Drink: Engaging the Logics of New Mediation
Authors: BECKHAM J. NIKOL
Published: February 2012

This article draws on the belief that the contemporary conjuncture is in part defined in relationship to emerging new media, to pursue the thesis that logics of new mediation should not be selectively "discovered" in proximity to the digital and digitizing objects that are
traditionally called new media technologies. Such logics are culturally pervasive and the implications of these logics extend to changing interactions with nondigital technologies that do not often, if ever, qualify as new media. If the logics of new mediation do underwrite our contemporary
cultural condition, they have done work to redefine the relations that construct the contexts of life. These contexts include digital and mechanical technologies, but also the varied products of human intervention - including the production, distribution, consumption, and formation of discourse
about food and drink.
The English Language as a Medium and Its Impact on Contemporary Chinese Culture: A Speculative Critique
Authors: ZHANG PETER
Published: February 2012

In this article, I use Marshall McLuhan's corpus as a major source of inspiration. I see the English language as a potent configuring force in contemporary Chinese culture and problematize the impact of the language by looking into its specificity as a "medium." I argue that
English embodies the alphabet effect in the Chinese cultural context. It is a "hot" medium, a site of power struggles, a vehicle of Western normativities, and the gateway toward a different reality. The goal of this article is to help users of English in China develop a heightened
awareness of what the language does regardless of what it conveys. I invite those awash in the "English rush" to hold a comic, sophisticated attitude toward English, and to use English with an eye for "minorizing" it from within.
eBILITY: from tool use to partnerships
Authors: Brown Andrew R. , Dillon Steve
Published: February 2012

In this article we identify how computational automation achieved through programming has enabled a new class of music technologies with generative music capabilities. These generative systems can have a degree of music making autonomy that impacts on our relationships with them; we
suggest that this coincides with a shift in the music-equipment relationship from tool use to a partnership. This partnership relationship can occur when we use technologies that display qualities of agency. It raises questions about the kinds of skills and knowledge that are necessary to
interact musically in such a partnership. These are qualities of musicianship we call eBility. In this paper we seek to define what eBility might consist of and how consideration of it might effect music education practice. The 'e' in eBility refers not only to the electronic nature of computing
systems but also to the ethical, enabling, experiential and educational dimensions of the creative relationship with technologies with agency. We hope to initiate a discussion around differentiating what we term representational technologies from those with agency and begin to uncover the
implications of these ideas for music educators in schools and communities. We hope also to elucidate the emergent theory and practice that has enabled the development of strategies for optimising this kind of eBility where the tool becomes partner. The identification of musical technologies
with agency adds to the authors' list of metaphors for technology use in music education that previously included tool, medium and instrument. We illustrate these ideas with examples and with data from our work with the jam2jam interactive music system. In this discussion we will outline our
experiences with jam2jam as an example of a technology with agency and describe the aspects of eBility that interaction with it promotes.
Transposition in Jonathan Larson's Rent
Authors: NISBET IAN
Published: February 2012

In composing La Bohéme, based on the novel Scénes de la vie Bohéme/Bohemians of the Latin Quarter by Henry Murger, Giacomo Puccini used musical themes symbolic of characters, emotions and settings. Jonathan Larson also based Rent on Murger's novel, and the characters,
plot and themes of both the opera and musical are close to identical. Larson signposted a clear motivic connection to La Bohéme within Rent and this led to the development of my hypotheses: that Larson transposed a number of Puccini's themes into Rent; that he was aware of their symbolism;
that the 'Musetta's Waltz' transposition was the most important transposition from La Bohéme to Rent; and that the transpositions applied to the 'Musetta's Waltz' theme throughout Rent were the most dramatically significant. This study compares the scores and musical themes of both
works in an attempt to establish Larson's intention behind the transpositions.
Out of all keeping: Revolution and gender upheaval in Ixion
Authors: MANNEX COLIN
Published: February 2012

In 1868, Lydia Thompson and her British Blondes were the most popular theatrical engagement in New York City. Their burlesque performances drew immense crowds but also critical condemnation. A close reading of the source text for their American premiere Ixion: Or the Man at the Wheel
reveals that the cultural anxieties that their performances raised – about gender roles, the economic viability of 'legitimate' theatre and American nationalism – were not unrelated to the themes within the script. Ixion engages with the idea of American Revolution, celebrating
the nation's participatory culture while at the same time probing its limits. Although a century had elapsed between the Revolution and the Blondes' premiere, Thompson's decision to open with Ixion illustrates her willingness to use the theatre as a means to assess the country's democratic
initiatives against the rigid limitations in contemporary cultural ideals.
REVIEWS
Authors: Rothman Korey , Burrows George , Pritchard Arthur , Vandevender Bryan M.
Published: February 2012

PICK YOURSELF UP: DOROTHY FIELDS AND THE AMERICAN MUSICAL, CHARLOTTE GREENSPAN (2010) (Broadway Legacies), Oxford: Oxford University Press, 298 pp., ISBN 978-0-19-5111110-1, h/bk, $27.95

GEORGE GERSHWIN, LARRY STARR (2011) (Yale Broadway Masters Series), New Haven and London:
Yale University Press, 194 pp., ISBN 978-0-300-11184-2, h/bk, £30

THE SONGS OF HOLLYWOOD, PHILIP FURIA AND LAURIE PATTERSON (2010) Oxford and New York: Oxford University Press, x+270 pp., ISBN 978-0-19-533708-2, h/bk, $35

BROADWAY MUSICALS, THE BIGGEST HIT AND THE BIGGEST
FLOP OF THE SEASON: 1959 TO 2009, PETER FILICHIA (2010) Milwaukee: Applause Theatre & Cinema Books, xiii+277 pp., ISBN-13 978-1-4234-9562-8, p/bk, US$19.99
Binding of stereognostically designed ligands to trivalent, pentavalent, and hexavalent f-block elements
Authors: Sinkov Sergey I. , Lumetta Gregg J. , Warner M. G. , Pittman J. W.
Published: February 2012

Stability constants were determined for the complexes formed from two stereognostically designed ligands and the f-block elements Nd(III), Np(V), and Pu(VI). The ligands investigated were tris[3-(2-carboxyphenoxy)propyl]amine (NPB) and tris-N,N´,N´´-[2-(2-carboxy-4-ethyl-phenoxy)ethyl]-1,4,7-triazacyclononane (EETAC). A stereognostically blind ligand, nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA), was also investigated for comparison. The results suggest that there is no significant stereognostic effect for complexation of NPB or EETAC to Np(V). On the other hand, a modest stereognostic effect is seen for the NPB ligand when complexed to Pu(VI), leading to an approximately 8-fold increase in the binding strength. A more significant effect is observed for the EETAC system in which a 250-fold increase in binding is observed for Pu(VI) vs. Nd(III).
3D Visualisation of Crack Distributions in Oxidised Zirconium Alloys by FIB-Slicing
Authors: Grovenor Chris R. M. , Ni Na , Yardley Sean S. , Hughes Gareth , Lozano-Perez Sergio , Sykes John M.
Published: February 2012

Zirconium alloys have been used as fuel cladding and structural fuel assembly components in nuclear reactors since the 1950s, and show a characteristic variation in oxidation rate and layered crack morphology during aqueous corrosion. It is common to associate the first phenomenon with the appearance of the second. We have used 3D serial sectioning to study the morphology and distribution of cracks in corroded ZIRLO samples at different stages of oxidation, and have shown that cracks nucleate and grow at all stages of the oxidation process not just at the kinetic transition. We have used this data to analyse the nucleation of cracks with reference to the shape of the oxide/metal interface and the distribution of second phase precipitates.
Juggling Instinct and Fear: An Ethnographic Study of Facilitators and Inhibitors of Physiological Birth Positioning in Two Different Birth Settings
Authors: Priddis Holly , Dahlen Hannah , Schmied Virginia
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: Although there is evidence to support the benefits for women of using a variety of birth positions, particularly upright birth positions, there is limited research into practices that facilitate or inhibit physiological birth positioning.

AIM: To explore how physiological birth positioning is facilitated by midwives and experienced by women in two main settings in New South Wales (NSW), Australia (birth center and delivery ward).

METHOD: An ethnographic approach guided data collection and analysis in this study. Data was collected using observation of women in the second stage of labor, focus groups with midwives, and interviews with women.

RESULTS: Women were more likely to assume upright birth positions in the birth center setting (81.84%) than in the delivery ward setting (24.47%). They also instinctively wanted to lean forward during labor and birth. Midwives and women constantly “juggle instinct and fear” as they work to adapt to the birth environment, and this impacts physiological birth positioning.

CONCLUSION: Women are more likely to adopt physiological birth positions during the first and second stage of labor in a birth center setting compared to a delivery ward setting. The birth center setting acts as a facilitator for physiological birth positions by providing a buffer from medicalized care.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: An in-depth exploration into facilitators and inhibitors of physiological birth positioning in two different birth settings provided new insights. Findings from this study have the potential to inform clinical practice through the design of birth environments and models of care that are available to women.
Home Birth: A Story of “Infinite Love and Enormous Rejection”
Authors: Dahlen Hannah G.
Published: February 2012

This article calls for a new way of looking at the home birth debate by challenging the underlying assumptions and beliefs that lead to the polarized discourse. The debate around home birth is about more than place of birth or perinatal mortality. It raises deeper and more complex issues that need to be explored. This article moves the debate about home birth from one about death to one about human nature, from one about statistics, to one about why the statistics will not end the debate. It explores less familiar discourses such as confirmation bias, group polarization, fear, risk, scientific paradigms, and power using insights from disciplines such as philosophy and psychology for guidance as to why “infinite love and enormous rejection” have come to fill the discourse about home birth. If we do not try and understand why the home birth debate is so polarized and develop new strategies to overcome the great divide, we will never make progress with important decisions as how home birth should safely be made available to women.
Effect on temperature on surface tension of a bubble and hierarchical ruptured bubbles for nanofiber fabrication
Authors: He Ji-Huan
Published: February 2012

Polymer bubbles can be used to fabrication of nanofibers using the bubble
electrospinning, temperature is one of the most effective parameters to
control the spinning process. Suitable choice of inner and outer temperatures
results in a minimal surface tension. A bubble under electronic field will be
broken to form daughter bubble cascades, which can be used for nanofiber
fabrication.
Analgesic effects of meloxicam administration on postoperative orthopedic pain in domestic pigeons (Columba livia)
Authors: Desmarchelier Marion , Troncy Eric , Fitzgerald Guy , Lair Stéphane
Published: February 2012

Objective—To assess the analgesic effects of 2 doses of meloxicam on the degree of postoperative orthopedic pain in pigeons.

Animals—21 domestic pigeons (Columba livia).

Procedures—In each bird, a standardized osteotomy of 1 femur was performed and the fracture was immobilized with an intramedullary pin. Birds were randomly allocated to receive saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (control) or meloxicam (0.5 mg/kg [low dose] or 2.0 mg/kg [high dose]). The first treatment was administered IM after surgery was completed. Subsequent treatments were administered PO every 12 hours for 9 days. Degree of postoperative pain was assessed for the first 4 days after surgery by use of 3 methods: an electronic perch for assessment of weight-bearing load differential of the pelvic limbs, 4 pain scales, and analysis of video-recorded partial ethograms for bird activity and posture.

Results—No significant differences were observed between the control group and the low-dose meloxicam group in any tested variable. The high-dose meloxicam group had a greater degree of weight bearing on the affected limb from the second to the fourth postoperative day as well as lower pain scores for at least the first 2 postoperative days, compared with the other groups. Return to presurgical behavior was achieved faster in pigeons that received high-dose meloxicam than in the other groups. No adverse effects were observed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Administration of meloxicam at 0.5 mg/kg appeared ineffective in minimizing postoperative orthopedic pain in pigeons, but the 2.0 mg/kg dose provided quantifiable analgesia that appeared safe in this species in experimental conditions.
Accuracy and precision of computer-assisted analysis of bone density via conventional and digital radiography in relation to dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry
Authors: Vaccaro Calogero , Busetto Roberto , Bernardini Daniele , Anselmi Carlo , Zotti Alessandro
Published: February 2012

Objective—To evaluate the precision and accuracy of assessing bone mineral density (BMD) by use of mean gray value (MGV) on digitalized and digital images of conventional and digital radiographs, respectively, of ex vivo bovine and equine bone specimens in relation to the gold-standard technique of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).

Sample—Left and right metatarsal bones from 11 beef cattle and right femurs from 2 horses.

Procedures—Bovine specimens were imaged by use of conventional radiography, whereas equine specimens were imaged by use of computed radiography (digital radiography). Each specimen was subsequently scanned by use of the same DEXA equipment. The BMD values resulting from each DEXA scan were paired with the MGVs obtained by use of software on the corresponding digitalized or digital radiographic image.

Results—The MGV analysis of digitalized and digital x-ray images was a precise (coefficient of variation, 0.1 and 0.09, respectively) and highly accurate method for assessing BMD, compared with DEXA (correlation coefficient, 0.910 and 0.937 for conventional and digital radiography, respectively).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The high correlation between MGV and BMD indicated that MGV analysis may be a reliable alternative to DEXA in assessing radiographic bone density. This may provide a new, inexpensive, and readily available estimate of BMD.
Where does Sedum cepaea L. (Crassulaceae) - one of the rarest species of Croatian flora - really grow?
Authors: Šapić Irena , Šegota Vedran , Alegro Antun
Published: February 2012

Where doesSedum cepaeaL. (Crassulaceae) - one of the rarest species of Croatian flora - really grow?

The distribution ofSedum cepaeain Croatia is limited to sciophilous or slightly heliophilous forest habitats in the zone dominated byQuercus petraea, developed on acidic types of soil above siliceous bedrock. We confirm a finding spot on Moslavačka gora and describe new localities on Zrinska gora (central Croatia). TwoS. cepaeapopulations on Nikolino brdo [hill] in Topusko disappeared a century ago.
No Mucosal Atrophy and Reduced Inflammatory Cells: Active-controlled Trial with Yearlong Fluticasone Furoate Nasal Spray
Authors: Fokkens Wytske J. , Rinia Bas , Van Drunen Cornelis M. , Hellings Peter W. , Hens Greet , Jansen Ad , Blom Henk , Wu Wei , Clements Diane S. , Lee Laurie A. , Philpot Edward E.
Published: February 2012

Background

Fluticasone furoate nasal spray (FFNS) and mometasone furoate nasal spray (MFNS) are well tolerated and more effective than placebo at relieving the symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. Effects of FFNS on the nasal histology have not been previously reported. This study examines the effects of FFNS and MFNS, administered daily for 1 year, on the nasal mucosa in subjects with perennial allergic rhinitis.

Methods

Subjects with perennial allergic rhinitis were randomized 1:1 to q.d., open-label treatment with FFNS, 110 μg, or MFNS, 200 μg, for 1 year. These groups and a healthy control group that did not receive study medication underwent nasal biopsies at baseline and 12 months.

Results

The nasal biopsy population comprised 96 participants (37 using FFNS, 42 using MFNS, and 17 healthy controls). Epithelial thickness did not change appreciably from baseline to week 52 in any of the groups and mean change from baseline did not differ between FFNS and MFNS (least square mean difference, -0.001 mm, 95% confidence interval, -0.007, 0.006). Although not tested for significance, improvements over baseline were observed in epithelial histology in the FFNS group with more epithelium including intact columnar and ciliated epithelial cells. No appreciable change in the percentage of goblet cells was established. FFNS and MFNS were associated with decreases in epithelial and subepithelial nasal mucosal eosinophils and basophils from baseline to week 52. The percentage of subjects with no inflammatory cells at week 52 was 49 and 33% for eosinophils and 46 and 24% for basophils, for FFNS and MFNS, respectively.

Conclusion

Yearlong therapy with either FFNS or MFNS showed no changes in epithelial thickness or the percentage of goblet cells as well as a reduction in inflammatory cell infiltrate. FFNS was associated with improvements in epithelial histology. These data support the long-term safety of FFNS in subjects with perennial allergic rhinitis.