bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical study of a full‐scale six‐story reinforced concrete wall‐frame structure tested at E‐Defense
Authors: Kim Yousok , Kabeyasawa Toshimi , Matsumori Taizo , Kabeyasawa Toshikazu
Published: October 2011

A full‐scale shake table test on a six‐story reinforced concrete wall frame structure was carried out at E‐Defense, the world's largest three‐dimensional earthquake simulation facility, in January 2006. Story collapse induced from shear failure of shear critical members (e.g., short columns and shear walls) was successfully produced in the test. Insights gained into the seismic behavior of a full‐scale specimen subjected to severe earthquake loads are presented in this paper. To reproduce the collapse process of the specimen and evaluate the ability of analytical tools to predict post‐peak behavior, numerical simulation was also conducted, modeling the seismic behavior of each member with different kinds of models, which differ primarily in their ability to simulate strength decay. Simulated results showed good agreement with the strength‐degrading features observed in post‐peak regions where shear failure of members and concentrated deformation occurred in the first story. The simulated results tended to underestimate observed values such as maximum base shear and maximum displacement. The effects of member model characteristics, torsional response, and earthquake load dimensions (i.e., three‐dimensional effects) on the collapse process of the specimen were also investigated through comprehensive dynamic analyses, which highlighted the following seismic characteristics of the full‐scale specimen: (i) a model that is incapable of simulating a specimen's strength deterioration is inadequate to simulate the post‐peak behavior of the specimen; (ii) the torsional response generated from uniaxial eccentricity in the longitudinal direction was more significant in the elastic range than in the inelastic range; and (iii) three‐dimensional earthquake loads (X–Y–Z axes) generated larger maximum displacement than any other loading cases such as two‐dimensional (X–Y or Y–Z axes) or one‐dimensional (Y axis only) excitation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bedload tracing in a high‐sediment‐load mountain stream
Authors: Liébault Frédéric , Bellot Hervé , Chapuis Margot , Klotz Sébastien , Deschâtres Michaël
Published: October 2011

This paper reports a radiofrequency identification (RFID) tracing experiment implemented in a high‐sediment‐load mountain stream typical of alpine gravel‐bed torrents. The study site is the Bouinenc Torrent, a tributary to the Bléone River in southeast France that drains a 38·9‐km² degraded catchment. In spring 2008, we deployed 451 tracers with b‐axis ranging from 23 to 520 mm. Tracers were seeded along eight cross‐sections located in the upstream part of the lowest 2·3 km of the stream. Three tracer inventories were implemented in July 2008, 2009 and 2010. Recovery rates calculated for mobile tracers declined from 78% in 2008 to 45% in 2009 and 25% in 2010. Observations of tracer displacement revealed very high sediment dispersion, with frontrunners having travelled more than 2 km only three months after their deployment. The declining recovery rate over time was interpreted as resulting from rapid dispersion rather than deep burial. We evaluated that 64% of the tracers deployed in the active channel were exported from the 2·3‐km study reach three years after the onset of the tracing experiment. Travel distances were characterized by right‐skewed and heavy‐tailed distributions, correctly fitted by a power‐law function. This supports the idea that in gravel‐bed rivers with abundant sediment supply relative to transport capacity, bedload transport can be viewed as a superdiffusive sediment dispersion process. It is also shown that tracers initially deployed in the low‐flow channel were characterized by a 15‐ to 30‐fold increase of mobility compared to tracers deployed in gravel bars. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Historic range of variability in geomorphic processes as a context for restoration: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, USA
Authors: Rubin Zan , Rathburn Sara L. , Wohl Ellen , Harry Dennis L.
Published: October 2011

Evaluation of historic range of variability (HRV) is an effective tool for determining baseline conditions and providing context to researchers and land managers seeking to understand and enhance ecological function. Incorporating HRV into restoration planning acknowledges the dynamic quality of landscapes by allowing variability and disturbance at reasonable levels and permitting riverine landscapes to adapt to the physical processes of their watersheds. HRV analysis therefore represents a practical (though under‐utilized) method for quantifying process‐based restoration goals. We investigated HRV of aggradational processes in the subalpine Lulu City wetland in Rocky Mountain National Park to understand the impacts of two centuries of altered land use and to guide restoration planning following a human‐caused debris flow in 2003 that deposited up to 1 m of sand and gravel in the wetland. Historic aerial photograph interpretation, ground penetrating radar surveys, and trenching, coring, and radiocarbon dating of valley‐bottom sediments were used to map sediment deposits, quantify aggradation rates, and identify processes (in‐channel and overbank fluvial deposition, direct hillslope input, beaver pond filling, peat accumulation) creating alluvial fill within the wetland. Results indicate (i) the Lulu City wetland has been aggrading for several millennia, (ii) the aggradation rate of the past one to two centuries is approximately six times higher than long‐term pre‐settlement averages, (iii) during geomorphically active periods, short‐term aggradation rates during the pre‐settlement period were probably much higher than the long‐term average rate, and (iv) the processes of aggradation during the last two centuries are the same as historic processes of aggradation. Understanding the HRV of aggradation rates and processes can constrain management and restoration scenarios by quantifying the range of disturbance from which a landscape can recover without active restoration. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toxicity of copper oxide nanoparticle suspensions to aquatic biota
Authors: Manusadžianas Levonas , Caillet Celine , Fachetti Louis , Gylytė Brigita , Grigutytė Reda , Jurkonienė Sigita , Karitonas Rolandas , Sadauskas Kazys , Thomas Fabien , Vitkus Rimantas , Férard Jean-François
Published: October 2011

Toxicity effects induced by nanosuspensions of CuO (<50 nm; Sigma-Aldrich) on macrophytic algae cells of Nitellopsis obtusa (96-h median lethal concentration [LC50]), microphytic algae Chlorella (30-min median inhibitory concentration [IC50]), shrimp Thamnocephalus platyurus (24-h LC50), and rotifer Brachionus calyciflorus (24-h LC50) were investigated. No substantial differences between the effects of nonsonicated and sonicated nCuO suspensions were observed. The particle size distribution analysis accomplished by the laser diffraction technique at suspension concentration from 3 to 100 mg/L revealed rapid (within 5 min) reagglomeration of the particles after the sonication. The observed adverse effects on N. obtusa cells may be attributed to nanoparticles per se, but not to ionic Cu, because neither chemical analysis nor biological testing (algae survival in the supernatants of suspensions) confirmed the presence of cupric ions in toxic amounts. Contrary to ionic Cu form, nCuO delayed the initial phase of N. obtusa cell membrane depolarization. Lethality tests with rewash demonstrated that the least used 5-min exposure in 100 mg/L nCuO sonicated suspension induced 70% mortality in charophyte cells after 8 d, whereas the rewash after a short exposure to a noticeably toxic concentration of Cu2+ prevented cell mortality. The obtained data suggested the possible influence of a thick charophyte cell wall on the dynamics of nanotoxicity effects. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012;31:108–114. © 2011 SETAC
Developing Elements of User Experience for Mobile Phones and Services: Survey, Interview, and Observation Approaches
Authors: Park Jaehyun , Han Sung H. , Kim Hyun K. , Cho Youngseok , Park Wonkyu
Published: October 2011

The term user experience (UX) encompasses the concepts of usability and affective engineering. However, UX has not been defined clearly. In this study, a literature survey, user interview and indirect observation were conducted to develop definitions of UX and its elements. A literature survey investigated 127 articles that were considered to be helpful to define the concept of UX. An in‐depth interview targeted 14 hands‐on workers in the Korean mobile phone industry. An indirect observation captured daily experiences of eight end‐users with mobile phones. This study collected various views on UX from academia, industry, and end‐users using these three approaches. As a result, this article proposes definitions of UX and its elements: usability, affect, and user value. These results are expected to help design products or services with greater levels of UX. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

This article was published online on 20 October 2011. An error was subsequently identified. This notice is included in the online and print versions to indicate that both have been corrected 13 June 2013.
Developing an integrated display of health data for aging in place
Authors: Gong Yang , Chandra Arpita
Published: October 2011

The goal of aging in place is to allow seniors to remain in the environment of their choice with supportive services as needed, living independently in old age. TigerPlace, a retirement community of residents assisting aging in place, has been equipped with different types of sensors with the potential of monitoring, identifying, and predicting deteriorating health conditions. Currently, the seniors' medical records and telemedicine data are stored in separate systems. Date‐ and time‐stamped sensor data are stored in SQL databases and are not linked with the senior's personal health records. The systems related to health care data and daily activities are separately stored and do not communicate with each other. Using a human‐centered design and evaluation framework, we conducted user, task, function, and representation analyses, which provide an in‐depth description of user characteristics, preferences, systems functionality, basic tasks, and effective representations in such an information‐distributed setting. In this article, we report our investigation of such an aging in place setting and present our preliminary results of analyses on design requirements and a couple of human‐centered prototypes aiming at an integrated health data display. The project was proposed to design a holistic and comprehensive view of senior residents' health data that are currently available in disparate systems. The integrated health data display must be human‐centered and should inform senior residents and health care providers in a timely manner to support decision making. This design demonstrates our effort to prototype a human‐centered user interface for enhancing aging in place. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evolution of hydrological and carbon cycles under a changing climate
Authors: Mu Qiaozhen , Zhao Maosheng , Running Steven W.
Published: October 2011

Hydrological and carbon cycles are inherently coupled and play a pivotal role in the earth system. Water stress is one of the most limiting factors constraining vegetation productivity in both direct and indirect ways (mainly through nutrition cycling). In this article, we first reviewed the concepts of hydrological and carbon cycles and their interactions and then summarized recent advances in our understanding of how global climate change affects water stress, ecosystem carbon cycling, disturbances, and water use efficiency. A warming climate may continue to benefit plant growth in energy limited areas such as high latitudes and altitudes. However, over many water‐limited regions of the world, a warming climate has led to a drying trend, posing negative effects on land carbon sink capability, as shown by reductions in vegetation growth and increases in ecosystem disturbances (wildfires, insect outbreaks, and tree mortality). Carbon cycle and water use efficiency have responded to climate change in different ways in different areas. Further integrating information from climate records, flux measurements at eddy flux towers, and observations from satellites will greatly advance our understanding of the hydrological and carbon cycles and their evolution. Advancement in our understanding of the evolution of hydrological and carbon cycles under the changing climate will help us to adapt and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
THE INFLUENCE OF IMPROVEMENT PROCEDURES AND A TILE DRAINAGE SYSTEM ON SOIL PHYSICAL PROPERTIES IN A NORTH‐EAST ROMANIAN EXPERIMENTAL SITE
Authors: Bucur Daniel , Moca Valeriu
Published: October 2011

This study was carried out to investigate an albic stagnic‐glossic Luvosol during three distinct experimental cycles conducted in 1978–1986, 1987–1996 and 1997–2008 to identify changes in properties of the drained soil in response to amendments.

After execution of the land shaping in the bedding system the topsoil thickness increased on the ridges when compared to the furrows, resulting in a higher active physiological depth in comparison to the unimproved soil. Additionally, mixing of the material from the upper horizons occurred because of the deep loosening and cultivation of the drained soil, especially at 0–30 cm. The upper part of the drained soil profile showed a redistribution of the clay content, which increased by an average of 4% in the 0–20 cm horizon when compared to the unimproved soil. Cultivation resulted in intensification of the mineralization process of the humic substances in the drained soil. As a result, the humus content was reduced by 4–5% in the 0–20 cm horizon.

The evolution of the main physical features of the soil under the long‐term influence of the tile drainage and improved cultivation methods revealed an increase in the drained porosity and a reduction of the compaction degree at 0–30 cm. These changes primarily occurred after the first experimental cycle, while the soil physical state remained relatively stable in the following experimental cycles. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulation mechanisms underlying the biosynthesis of daptomycin and related lipopeptides
Authors: liao Guojian , Shi Tinyu , Xie Jianping
Published: October 2011

Daptomycin is a lipopeptide antibiotics used to treat Gram‐positive pathogens infections, including drug‐resistant strains. In‐depth exploration of its biosynthesis and regulation is crucial for metabolic engineering improvement of this ever‐increasing important antibiotic. The past years have witnessed the significant progresses in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the biosynthesis and regulation of daptomycin. This information was updated in our review, with special focus on the regulatory network integrating a wide variety of physiological and environmental inputs. This should provide novel insight into the regulatory mechanism of biosynthesis of daptomycin and nodes for strain improvement to increase the yields of daptomycin. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 735–741, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Regulation of asthmatic airway relaxation by estrogen and heat shock protein 90
Authors: Intapad S. , Dimitropoulou C. , Snead C. , Piyachaturawat P. , Catravas J.D.
Published: October 2011

We tested the hypothesis that asthmatic mouse airways exhibit impaired relaxation to NO donors. Mouse tracheal rings were incubated overnight in serum from asthmatic human subjects or from nonasthmatic controls. The next day, cumulative concentration‐response curves (CCRC) to sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and nitroglycerine (NTG) were obtained. Both SNP and NTG relaxed the pre‐constricted normal tracheal rings. Tracheal rings exposed to serum from asthmatic patients exhibited a more than a threefold increase in the EC50 of SNP and NTG. Pre‐incubation of tracheal rings with heat shock protein 90 inhibitors decreased the relaxation of both normal and asthmatic tracheal rings to SNP and NTG. Pre‐incubation with estradiol did not affect normal tracheal ring relaxation but exhibited an increase in asthmatic tracheal ring relaxation, which was abolished by an estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist. ER subtype‐selective agonists, but not GPR30 agonists, mimicked the action of estradiol on tracheal ring relaxation. Co‐incubation of rings with radicicol and estradiol produced an ER‐dependent increase in the relaxation response to SNP of both normal and asthmatic ASM. Estrogen‐induced relaxation of ASM was abolished by overnight incubation with radicicol and this was associated with reduced expression of ERβ. These data suggest that asthmatic ASM is considerably less responsive to NO‐donors and that both estrogen and hsp90 play important roles in ASM relaxation. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3036–3043, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The phosphoinositide 3′‐kinase p110δ modulates contractile protein production and IL‐6 release in human airway smooth muscle
Authors: Ge Qi , Moir Lyn M. , Trian Thomas , Niimi Kyoko , Poniris Maree , Shepherd Peter R. , Black Judith L. , Oliver Brian G. , Burgess Janette K.
Published: October 2011

Transforming growth factor (TGF) β1 increases pro‐inflammatory cytokines and contractile protein expression by human airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells, which could augment airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness. Phosphoinositide 3′ kinase (PI3K) is one of the signaling pathways implicated in TGFβ1 stimulation, and may be altered in asthmatic airways. This study compared the expression of PI3K isoforms by ASM cells from donors with asthma (A), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or neither disease (NA), and investigated the role of PI3K isoforms in the production of TGFβ1 induced pro‐inflammatory cytokine and contractile proteins in ASM cells. A cells expressed higher basal levels of p110δ mRNA compared to NA and COPD cells; however COPD cells produced more p110δ protein. TGFβ1 increased 110δ mRNA expression to the same extent in the three groups. Neither the p110δ inhibitor IC87114 (1, 10, 30 µM), the p110β inhibitor TGX221 (0.1, 1, 10 µM) nor the PI3K pan inhibitor LY294002 (3, 10 µM) had any effect on basal IL‐6, calponin or smooth muscle α‐actin (α‐SMA) expression. However, TGFβ1 increased calponin and α‐SMA expression was inhibited by IC87114 and LY294002 in all three groups. IC87114, TGX221, and LY294002 reduced TGFβ1 induced IL‐6 release in a dose related manner in all groups of ASM cells. PI3K p110δ is important for TGFβ1 induced production of the contractile proteins calponin and α‐SMA and the proinflammatory cytokine IL‐6 in ASM cells, and may therefore be relevant as a potential therapeutic target to treat both inflammation and airway remodeling. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3044–3052, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Emerging role of angiogenin in stress response and cell survival under adverse conditions
Authors: Li Shuping , Hu Guo‐Fu
Published: October 2011

Angiogenin (ANG), also known as ribonuclease (RNASE) 5, is a member of the vertebrate‐specific, secreted RNASE superfamily. ANG was originally identified as a tumor angiogenic factor, but its biological activity has been extended from inducing angiogenesis to stimulating cell proliferation and more recently, to promoting cell survival. Under growth conditions, ANG is translocated to nucleus where it accumulates in nucleolus and stimulates ribosomal RNA (rRNA) transcription, thus facilitating cell growth and proliferation. Under stress conditions, ANG is accumulated in cytoplasmic compartments and modulates the production of tiRNA, a novel class of small RNA that is derived from tRNA and is induced by stress. tiRNA suppress global protein translation by inhibiting both cap‐dependent and ‐independent translation including that mediated by weak IRESes. However, strong IRES‐mediated translation, a mechanism often used by genes involved in pro‐survival and anti‐apoptosis, is not affected. Thus, ANG‐mediated tiRNA reprogram protein translation, save anabolic energy, and promote cell survival. This recently uncovered function of ANG presents a novel mechanism of action in regulating cell growth and survival. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 2822–2826, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Angiopoietin‐1 but not angiopoietin‐2 induces IL‐8 synthesis and release by human neutrophils
Authors: Neagoe Paul‐Eduard , Dumas Elizabeth , Hajjar Fadi , Sirois Martin G.
Published: October 2011

We previously reported Tie2 receptor expression on human neutrophils, which promote chemotactic activities upon activation by both angiopoietins (Ang1 and Ang2). Moreover, we observed that neutrophil pretreatment with Ang1 or Ang2 enhances interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) chemotactic effect. Therefore, we assessed the capacity of Ang1 and/or Ang2 to modulate neutrophil IL‐8 synthesis and release. Neutrophils isolated from healthy donors were stimulated in a time‐ (1–6 h) and concentration‐(10−10–10−8 M) dependent manner with both angiopoietins. IL‐8 mRNA production was measured by RT‐qPCR, whereas its protein synthesis and release from neutrophils was assessed by ELISA. Ang1 (10−8 M) induced a significant and maximal increase of IL‐8 mRNA (4.7‐fold) within 1 h, and promoted maximal IL‐8 protein synthesis (3.6‐fold) and release (5.5‐fold) within 2 h as compared to control PBS‐treated neutrophils. Treatment with Ang2 alone did not modulate IL‐8 synthesis or release, and its combination to Ang1 did not affect Ang1 activity. Neutrophil pretreatment with a protein synthesis inhibitor (CHX) increased IL‐8 mRNA synthesis by 18‐fold, and reduced Ang1‐mediated IL‐8 protein synthesis and release by 96% and 92%, respectively. Pretreatment with a transcription inhibitor (ActD) reduced IL‐8 mRNA synthesis by 54% and IL‐8 protein synthesis and release by 52% and 79%, respectively. Using specific kinase inhibitors, we observed that Ang1‐driven IL‐8 mRNA and protein synthesis is p42/44 MAPK‐dependent and ‐independent from p38 MAPK and PI3K activity. Our study is the first to report the capacity of Ang1 (as opposed to Ang2) to promote neutrophil IL‐8 synthesis and release through the activation of p42/44 MAPK pathway. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3099–3110, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
CASK interacts with PMCA4b and JAM‐A on the mouse sperm flagellum to regulate Ca2+ homeostasis and motility
Authors: Aravindan Rolands G. , Fomin Victor P. , Naik Ulhas P. , Modelski Mark J. , Naik Meghna U. , Galileo Deni S. , Duncan Randall L. , Martin‐DeLeon Patricia A.
Published: October 2011

Deletion of the highly conserved gene for the major Ca2+ efflux pump, Plasma membrane calcium/calmodulin‐dependent ATPase 4b (Pmca4b), in the mouse leads to loss of progressive and hyperactivated sperm motility and infertility. Here we first demonstrate that compared to wild‐type (WT), Junctional adhesion molecule‐A (Jam‐A) null sperm, previously shown to have motility defects and an abnormal mitochondrial phenotype reminiscent of that seen in Pmca4b nulls, exhibit reduced (P < 0.001) ATP levels, significantly (P < 0.001) greater cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]c) and ∼10‐fold higher mitochondrial sequestration, indicating Ca2+ overload. Investigating the mechanism involved, we used co‐immunoprecipitation studies to show that CASK (Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent serine kinase), identified for the first time on the sperm flagellum where it co‐localizes with both PMCA4b and JAM‐A on the proximal principal piece, acts as a common interacting partner of both. Importantly, CASK binds alternatively and non‐synergistically with each of these molecules via its single PDZ (PDS‐95/Dlg/ZO‐1) domain to either inhibit or promote efflux. In the absence of CASK–JAM‐A interaction in Jam‐A null sperm, CASK–PMCA4b interaction is increased, resulting in inhibition of PMCA4b's enzymatic activity, consequent Ca2+ accumulation, and a ∼6‐fold over‐expression of constitutively ATP‐utilizing CASK, compared to WT. Thus, CASK negatively regulates PMCA4b by directly binding to it and JAM‐A positively regulates it indirectly through CASK. The decreased motility is likely due to the collateral net deficit in ATP observed in nulls. Our data indicate that Ca2+ homeostasis in sperm is maintained by the relative ratios of CASK–PMCA4b and CASK–JAM‐A interactions. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3138–3150, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Derivation and characterization of ovine embryonic stem‐like cell lines in semi‐defined medium without feeder cells
Authors: Zhao Yuncheng , Lin Jiapeng , Wang Liqin , Chen Bo , Zhou Chuan , Chen Tong , Guo Meiying , He Sangang , Zhang Ning , Liu Chenxi , Liu Mingjun , Huang Juncheng
Published: October 2011

Domestic animal embryonic stem (ES) cells would provide an invaluable research tool for genetic breeding and the production of transgenic animals. Unfortunately, authentic domestic animals ES cells have not been established despite progress made over more than two decades. Here, we show that ovine ES‐like cells can be efficiently derived and propagated in a semi‐defined medium that contains N2, B27, GSK3 inhibitor (CHIR99021), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). These ovine ES‐like cells had a characteristic three‐dimensional appearance, showed a bFGF dose‐dependence, expressed specific markers such as alkaline phosphatase (AP), Oct‐4, Sox2, Nanog and can be maintained for 30 passages. Moreover, these cells differentiated in vitro into neuronal cells, and formed teratomas containing a variety of different tissues including cartilage and neural tissue when injected into kidney capsules of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice. But the cell lines fail to contribute to embryonic development upon blastocyst transplantation. To our knowledge, this is the first experiment to use semi‐defined medium without feeder‐cells to derive ES‐like cells from ovine blastocysts, and opens the door to deriving authentic ES cells from domesticated ungulates. J. Exp. Zool. 315:639–648, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Embryo and larva development in Dentex dentex, a marine pelagophil teleost: an endeavor to find a series of new fatty acid interrelations
Authors: Samaee Seyed‐Mohammadreza , Estévez Alicia
Published: October 2011

Although the fatty acid (FA) requirements of marine teleosts not only are a function of the amount of each FA individually, but also of the relative proportions of the FAs; mostly, the interactions have been ignored and merely limited to a few interrelations of 20:4[n‐6], 20:5[n‐3], and 22:6[n‐3]. To address this shortcoming, viable eggs of Dentex dentex were obtained from broodfish in captivity. Nine viability parameters (VP) (i.e., floating rate (FR), hatching rate (HR), and survival rate (SR) from day 0 to 5 posthatch (dph)) that are currently used in mariculture systems were determined. Egg FAs were characterized and quantified. One hundred and twenty ratios were made based on the FA contents estimated. Sixty‐four ratios were significantly and strongly correlated to embryo/larva success through 201 simple regression models (r2 = 0.640–0.948; P = 0.006–P<0.001). Of the 201 significant relationships found, ∼12, ∼5, ∼2, ∼3, ∼22, ∼23, ∼21, and ∼13% show the relations of the egg FA ratios with FR, HR, and SR at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 dph, respectively. All the FAs characterized in this study were significantly correlated to VPs through either their individual relative proportions or relative proportion of their combinations. This study, for the first time, presents a series of new FA interrelations and uncovers their biological meanings under both basic and applied aspects through correlating them to embryo/larva success. J. Exp. Zool. 317:55–72, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modelling the UCC3800 controller in SPICE with the electrothermal phenomena taken into account
Authors: Górecki Krzysztof , Zarębski Janusz
Published: October 2011

A new electrothermal compact model of the current mode pulse width modulation controller—UCC3800—dedicated for SPICE is proposed in this paper. The form of this model is presented and described in detail. The results of the experimental verification of the model are also presented for the device operating in the test circuit. It is shown that self‐heating influences essentially the characteristics of the considered device and the proposed model is of good accuracy. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amid the nation's health‐care crisis, Cancer Treatment Centers of America® finds its own cure
Authors: DeBarba Herb , Lewis Smith Jennifer , Myers Michael
Published: October 2011

Cancer Treatment Centers of America® (CTCA®), where the spirit of “the patient comes first” has never been a cliché, was founded on the principle that only a standard of care suitable for one's own mother would suffice. To build on this mission, the organization added Lean Six Sigma—a manufacturing industry‐driven combination of waste reduction and defect‐free process improvement. This approach created a patient‐driven cultural imperative that has changed both the behavioral experience and financial landscape throughout its hospital network for patients and their families, providers, payers, and administrators alike. Today, continuous improvement permeates every corner of the organization and serves as an omnipresent roadmap for never being satisfied with the status quo. The result has been unprecedented patient satisfaction, a top‐down and bottom‐up collaborative spirit among all stakeholders, and a trend of cost savings and revenue generation that has competitors taking note. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Beyond the Shingo: Employee development plus increased efficiency fosters growth at AccuRounds
Authors: McCormick Michael
Published: October 2011

AccuRounds, a profitable, family‐run precision manufacturing subcontractor, began investigating lean techniques in the mid‐1990s, when its owners realized the company had to find ways to engage and empower its workforce if it was to not only weather the economic and technological challenges it faced, but also continue to grow and prosper. Despite being a subtier supplier without a product of its own, the firm captured a Northeast Shingo Prize Silver Medal for its achievements, and then used feedback from the judges to institute additional physical and operational changes, including value stream mapping and an employee bonus program. The resulting improvements in delivery, quality, and cost prove that even a contract manufacturer can reap great rewards from the diligent application of lean strategies. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Changes in nutrient dynamics of midcontinent greater white‐fronted geese during spring migration
Authors: Pearse Aaron T. , Alisauskas Ray T. , Krapu Gary L. , Cox Robert R.
Published: October 2011

Waterfowl and other migratory birds commonly store nutrients at traditional staging areas during spring for later use during migration and reproduction. We investigated nutrient‐storage dynamics in the midcontinent population of greater white‐fronted geese (Anser albifrons; hereafter white‐fronted geese) at spring staging sites in the Rainwater Basin of Nebraska during February–April and in southern Saskatchewan during April–May, 1998 and 1999. In Nebraska, lipid content of white‐fronted geese did not increase, and protein content changed little over time for most age and sex categories. In Saskatchewan, lipids increased 11.4 g/day (SE = 1.7) and protein content increased 1.6 g/day (SE = 0.6) in the sample of adult geese collected over a 3‐week period. A study conducted during 1979–1980 in the Rainwater Basin reported that white‐fronted geese gained 8.8–17.7 g of lipids per day during spring, differing greatly from our results 2 decades later. In addition, lipid levels were less in the 1990s compared to spring 1980 for adult geese nearing departure from staging sites in Saskatchewan. This shift in where geese acquired nutrient stores from Nebraska to more northern staging sites coincided with a decrease in availability of waste corn in Nebraska, their primary food source while staging at that stopover site, and an increase in cultivation of high‐energy pulse crops in Saskatchewan. White‐fronted geese exhibited flexibility in nutrient dynamics during spring migration, likely in response to landscape‐level variation in food availability caused by changes in agricultural trends and practices. Maintaining a wide distribution of wetlands in the Great Plains may allow spring‐staging waterfowl to disperse across the region and facilitate access to high‐energy foods over a larger cropland base. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Effects of crystallite size on the kinetics and mechanism of NiO reduction with H2
Authors: Syed‐Hassan Syed Shatir A. , Li Chun‐Zhu
Published: October 2011

A kinetic investigation on the reduction of nanometer‐sized nickel oxide particles (supported and unsupported) with hydrogen was carried out. The reduction behavior was found to be related to the average size of NiO crystallites. When the NiO crystallite size was less than about 20 nm, the dissociation of H2 was the key rate‐limiting factor and remained unchanged almost throughout the reduction process. However, when the NiO crystallite size was >20 nm, its reduction kinetics changed with conversion, showing two kinetic compensation effects at lower and higher NiO conversion levels. It is believed that the movement and rearrangement of H atoms inside such bulk Ni/NiO solid could be an important aspect of the reduction kinetics, especially at higher (50%–90%) NiO conversion levels. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 43: 667–676, 2011
Preliminary investigation of human lymphatic malformations in vitro
Authors: Dai Yuemeng , Hou Fang , Saad Ali , Fan Chun‐Yang , Buckmiller Lisa M. , Suen James Y. , Richter Gresham T.
Published: October 2011

Purpose:

To develop an in vitro model of human lymphatic malformations (LM) that reflects histological characteristics of native LM.

Methods:

Fresh human LM (n = 6) were harvested, sectioned, explanted into a fibrinogen gel, and cultured. A total of 25 explants were developed and observed for primary and peripheral cellular growth. On days 9 to 10, the cultured tissues and gels were collected and fixed in 10% formalin. Primary LM and surrounding gel matrix were sectioned and stained for H&E analysis. Immunohistochemistry was performed for Prox‐1 and D2‐40, known markers for lymphatic endothelium, and Ki‐67, a marker of cellular proliferation.

Results:

On culture day 3, cells were observed to grow into the gel surrounding the primary tissue explants. Persistent and significant growth into the gel matrix was observed for each specimen at subsequent measurement intervals (day 6 and day 10, P < .0001). H&E staining of all the LM explants demonstrated survival and intact organization and cellular structure reflective of the original LM specimens. Microchannels were observed in the surrounding gel suggesting the presence of newly formed lymphatic vessels. Positive‐immunohistochemical staining for D2‐40 and Prox‐1 revealed organized lymphatic endothelia within each specimen and associated microchannels distal to the explants in the gel matrix. Scattered cells in the gel matrix stained positive for Ki‐67.

Conclusions:

This experimental model suggests that human LM can be preserved and observed to grow in vitro with structural characteristics, and immunohistologic qualities similar to native LM. This model may provide a facile tool for basic and translational research on LM. Laryngoscope, 121:2435‐2442, 2011
In vivo oxygen consumption and hemoglobin levels in human thyroarytenoid muscle
Authors: Tellis Cari M. , Rosen Clark A. , Carroll Thomas L. , Fierro Michael , Sciote James J.
Published: October 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Visible light spectroscopy (VLS) is the technology behind the Food and Drug Administration–approved TSTAT device that is used to monitor tissue oxygen (StO2) and relative total hemoglobin (rtHb) levels by measuring reflected visible light. The purpose of this novel, pilot study was to determine if VLS is a reliable and valid method of measuring StO2 and rtHb levels in the human thyroarytenoid/lateral cricoarytenoid (TA‐LCA) muscle complex, thus providing information about vocal fold muscle physiology.

Study Design:

Pre‐test/post‐test with mulitple baselines and two conditions.

Methods:

VLS measurements were taken at baseline, during exercise, and following recovery on six subjects using both noncontact channel‐port endoscope (endo‐probe) and laryngeal electromyography (LEMG) needle‐guided techniques.

Results:

The average baseline StO2 was 69% (standard deviation [SD] = 3.6%) for the LEMG‐guided probe and was 71.5% (SD = 2.8%) for the endo‐probe. During phonation, the StO2 for the LEMG‐guided probe dropped to 59% (SD = 7%; P = .04). Mean rtHb measured by the LEMG probe rose from a baseline of 144 μM (SD = 165 μM) to 214 μM (SD = 166 μM, P = .34) during phonation and back to 149 μM (SD = 139 μM, P = .85) after recovery. Mean rtHb as measured using the endo‐probe at baseline and after recovery was 104 μM (SD = 30 μM, P = .76).

Conclusions:

VLS can be used to measure changes in StO2 and rtHb levels pre‐ and postexercise in the human TA‐LCA muscle complex. Laryngoscope, 121:2429‐2434, 2011
ADVANCE: A multisite trial of bioabsorbable steroid‐eluting sinus implants
Authors: Forwith Keith D. , Chandra Rakesh K. , Yun Paul T. , Miller Steven K. , Jampel Henry D.
Published: October 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Disease recurrence and adverse wound healing in the form of inflammation, polyposis, adhesions, and middle turbinate lateralization may induce suboptimal outcomes following sinus surgery. The study objective was to assess the safety and effectiveness of a bioabsorbable, steroid‐eluting implant used following functional endoscopic sinus surgery in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Study Design:

Prospective, multicenter, single‐cohort trial enrolling 50 patients.

Methods:

The study allowed bilateral or unilateral steroid‐eluting implant placement. Oral and topical steroids were withheld for 60 days postoperatively. Endoscopic follow‐up was performed to 60 days. Patient‐reported outcomes (Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test‐22 Questionnaire, Rhinosinusitis Disability Index) were collected to 6 months. Efficacy was assessed by grading inflammation, polyp formation, adhesions, and middle turbinate position. Safety assessment included ocular exams at baseline and 30 days.

Results:

Implants were successfully placed in all 90 sinuses. Mean inflammation scores were minimal at all time points. At 1 month, the prevalence of polypoid edema was 10.0%, significant adhesions 1.1%, and middle turbinate lateralization 4.4%. Changes from baseline in patient‐reported outcomes were statistically significant (P < .0001). No clinically significant changes from baseline in intraocular pressure occurred.

Conclusions:

This consecutive case series provides clinical evidence of the safety, effectiveness, and clinical utility of a bioabsorbable steroid‐eluting implant for use in CRS patients. The implant was associated with favorable rates of sinus patency. At 1 month, minimal degrees of inflammation and adhesions were observed, suggesting a positive clinical impact of local steroid delivery without evidence of ocular risk. Laryngoscope, 121:2473‐2480, 2011
Total cricoidectomy in the treatment of laryngeal chondrosarcomas
Authors: de Vincentiis Marco , Greco Antonio , Fusconi Massimo , Pagliuca Giulio , Martellucci Salvatore , Gallo Andrea
Published: October 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Our goal was to describe a total cricoidectomy, a laryngeal‐preserving procedure for the treatment of low‐grade chondrosarcomas of the larynx. These extremely rare cartilaginous tumors arise in the cricoid cartilage in most cases. Although these are slow‐growing and rarely metastasizing tumors, large chondrosarcomas of cricoid cartilage are generally treated with total laryngectomy. An oncologically radical but function‐preserving approach would therefore be preferable.

Study Design:

Case series.

Methods:

Three consecutive patients with low‐grade chondrosarcomas of the larynx underwent total cricoidectomy from 1996 to 2004. An end‐to‐end anastomosis between the remaining larynx and the trachea was performed to restore the continuity of airways. In all cases the laryngeal lumen was stented using a Montgomery T‐tube. Oncologic and functional results were observed during at least 6 years of follow‐up.

Results:

No evidence of tumor recurrence was detected during follow‐up. One month after surgery, all patients were able to tolerate a soft diet and to speak satisfactorily. One patient was ultimately decannulated, and two patients still have a tracheostomy. However, even nondecannulated patients were able to keep the tracheostoma closed for most of the time, maintaining good phonatory and swallowing functions.

Conclusions:

Total cricoidectomy with thyrotracheopexy may avoid the need for total laryngectomy in low‐grade chondrosarcomas of the cricoid cartilage. Laryngoscope, 121:2375–2380, 2011
The mass media's dual role: ‘watchdog’ and guardian of their own interests
Authors: Johnson Diane E.
Published: October 2011

The mass media are a special case of interest articulation in a democracy because they play two distinct roles. On the one hand, mass media provide information about efforts by various interest groups to influence public policy. On the other hand, being interest groups themselves, the mass media work to protect and advance their own interests. This article examines the compatibility of these two roles in Argentina and Uruguay by placing this in a broader discussion about the role of lobbying in democratic societies. The evidence suggests that despite impediments to the media's ability to fulfill both roles simultaneously, some have performed a credible job. The best explanation for the variance in performance among the media outlets includes a combination of the following factors: the size and density of the media market, patterns of media ownership, the relative strength of the state vis‐à‐vis the media, levels of public advertising, and the particular practices adopted by individual media companies. Evidence suggests that neither the traditional distinction between corporatist and pluralist societies nor government regulation of lobbying plays a dominant role in determining the media's performance. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of particle size on the densification and dielectric properties of BaTiO3 ceramics prepared by liquid phase sintering
Authors: Zou Yanan , Wu Yugong , Guo Xiaozan , Tong Shuai , Wang Zhiyuan , Zhang Lu
Published: October 2011

Using starting BaTiO3 powders of various particle sizes, we investigated the densification and dielectric characteristics of BaTiO3 ceramics sintered at low temperature with the addition of ZnO‐B2O3‐SiO2 (ZBS) glass as sintering aids. Scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and LCR meter were used to examine the structure and dielectric properties. The results indicated that the particle size of raw powders had a dramatic influence on the densification and dielectric properties of BaTiO3 ceramics. The grain size of the final ceramics was almost proportional to the particle size of the starting BaTiO3 powder. Moreover, the tetragonality (c/a ratio) and Curie temperature is increased with the increase of grain size of the BaTiO3 ceramics. The relative density of 96% and the dielectric constant of 1440 were obtained for the BaTiO3 ceramics prepared with the raw powders of average particle size of 800 nm. In addition, the sintering temperature was reduced to 1100 °C due to the addition of 5 wt% ZBS glass.
Crack control design due to drying shrinkage in restrained reinforced concrete wall
Authors: Chung Lan , Lee Moon‐Sung , Seo Tae‐Seok
Published: October 2011

This study considered the crack control design method of reinforced concrete wall subjected to uniaxial tension caused by drying shrinkage. From this study, a practical crack control design method of RC wall by controlling the restraint tensile strain caused by drying shrinkage was proposed. In addition, the validity of the proposed method was investigated by comparing with the experimental results (restraint ratio and restraint tensile strain) of small‐scale RC wall specimens under the uniaxial restrained condition. In conclusion, there was good agreement between the values predicted by the proposed method and the experimental values. It is expected that the method proposed in this study enables quantitative crack control design through rational combinations between the materials and structural design. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal and structural effects of poly(vinyl chloride)/(wood flour) compound gelation in the Brabender mixer
Authors: Tomaszewska Jolanta , Sterzyński Tomasz , Zajchowski Stanisław
Published: October 2011

The processing of two unplasticized compounds of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) with and without wood flour (WF) was performed in a Brabender mixing chamber, at various chamber temperatures between 130 and 200°C and at a shear rate of 12.61 s−1. The test was carried out up to the time corresponding to the equilibrium state of the torque, and the variations of torque and real melt temperature as functions of time were analyzed. It was found that the addition of WF led to fusion at lower chamber temperature and that during gelation, stronger self‐heating effects occurred in the WF‐filled PVC compound. Various characteristics of the real temperature gelation curves of PVC with and without the WF filler were observed and are discussed. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
The consumer psychology of brands
Authors: Schmitt Bernd
Published: October 2011

This article presents a consumer‐psychology model of brands that integrates empirical studies and individual constructs (such as brand categorization, brand affect, brand personality, brand symbolism and brand attachment, among others) into a comprehensive framework. The model distinguishes three levels of consumer engagement (object‐centered, self‐centered and social) and five processes (identifying, experiencing, integrating, signifying and connecting). Pertinent psychological constructs and empirical findings are presented for the constructs within each process. The article concludes with research ideas to test the model using both standard and consumer‐neuroscience methods.
The Origin of Moral Norms: A Moderate Nativist Account
Authors: Giroux Jessy
Published: October 2011

ABSTRACT: In this paper, I distinguish between two families of theories which view moral norms as either “inputs” or “outputs.” I argue that the most plausible version of each model can ultimately be seen as the two sides of the same model, which I call Moderate Nativism. The difference between these two apparently antagonistic models is one of perspective rather than content: while the Input model explains how emotional dispositions constrain the historical evolution of moral norms, the Output model explains how these same dispositions naturally give rise to corresponding moral judgments in individuals.
Comparing the M-position with some classical positions of convex bodies
Authors: MARKESSINIS E. , PAOURIS G. , SAROGLOU CH.
Published: October 2011

The purpose of this paper is to compare some classical positions of convex bodies. We provide exact quantitative results which show that the minimal surface area position and the minimal mean width position are not necessarily M-positions. We also construct examples of unconditional convex bodies of minimal surface area that exhibit the worst possible behavior with respect to their mean width or their minimal hyperplane projection.