bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate‐based sensitivity of air quality to climate change scenarios for the southwestern United States
Authors: Wise Erika K.
Published: May 2008

The need to understand future trends in air quality is an issue that is frequently raised by air quality planners and managers. The potential for extreme events is of particular interest, but forecasts are difficult using traditional methods and further complicated by predictions of future climate change. This study aims to address this research need through a climate‐based sensitivity study of ground‐level ozone and particulate matter (PM) in the U.S. Southwest. Extreme value methods were used to examine ozone and PM in Tucson, Arizona, over the time period 1990–2001. A Statistical DownScaling Model (SDSM) was employed to build regression‐based models between gridded meteorological data and point time series of ozone and PM. Following model calibration and verification, future climate‐based ozone and PM scenarios were created for 2002–2050 and 2051–2099. Daily output of projected ozone and PM were then subjected to extreme value methods in order to estimate climate‐based changes in ozone and PM extremes over the next century. Results indicate that monthly mean and extreme ozone values are sensitive to predicted increases in temperature, particularly in the summer months. PM results are less certain but suggest that PM may be sensitive to changing moisture conditions. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Radar‐guided interpolation of climatological precipitation data
Authors: DeGaetano Arthur T. , Wilks Daniel S.
Published: May 2008

A refined approach for interpolating daily precipitation accumulations is presented, which combines radar‐based information to characterize the spatial distribution and gross accumulation of precipitation with observed daily rain‐gauge data to adjust for spatially varying errors in the radar estimates. Considering the rain gauge observations to be true values at each measurement location, daily radar errors are calculated at these points. These errors are then interpolated back to the radar grid, providing a spatially varying daily adjustment that can be applied across the radar domain. In contrast to similar techniques that are employed at hourly intervals to adjust radar‐rainfall estimates operationally, this refined approach is intended to provide high‐spatial‐resolution precipitation data for climatological purposes, such as drought and environmental monitoring, retrospective impact analyses, and (when time series of sufficient length become available) assessment of temporal precipitation variations at high‐spatial‐resolution.

Compared to the Multisensor Precipitation Estimators (MPEs) used operationally, the refined method yields lower cross‐validated interpolation errors regardless of season or daily precipitation amount. Comparisons between cross‐validated radar estimates aggregated to monthly totals with operational (non‐cross‐validated) Parameter‐elevation Regressions on Independent Slopes Model (PRISM) precipitation estimates are also favourable. The new method provides a radar‐based alternative to similar climatologies based on the spatial interpolation of gauge data alone (e.g. PRISM). Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Dynamically and statistically downscaled seasonal temperature and precipitation hindcast ensembles for the southeastern USA
Authors: Schoof J. T. , Shin D. W. , Cocke S. , LaRow T. E. , Lim Y.‐K. , O'Brien J. J.
Published: May 2008

We present results from a 15‐year 10‐member warm season (March–September) hindcast ensemble of maximum and minimum surface air temperatures and precipitation in southeast USA. The hindcasts are derived from the Florida State University/Center for Ocean‐Atmospheric Prediction Studies Global Spectral Model (FSU/COAPS GSM) and downscaled using both the FSU/COAPS Nested Regional Spectral Model (NRSM) and a statistical downscaling method based on stochastic weather generator techniques. We additionally consider statistical bias correction of the dynamical model output. Basic descriptive statistics indicate that the bias‐corrected and statistically downscaled data reduce the FSU/COAPS GSM bias considerably in terms of basic climatology. Statistics describing the daily precipitation process are improved by both downscaling techniques relative to the bias‐corrected GSM. Improvement in monthly and seasonal hindcasts relative to FSU/COAPS GSM is spatially and temporally varying. Precipitation hindcasts are generally less skillful than those for temperature, although useful precipitation predictability exists at many locations. Hindcast improvements due to downscaling are greatest over peninsular Florida. The smallest root mean square errors (RMSE) for temperature hindcasts are found in the southern part of the study region during the spring months of March, April and May (MAM) for maximum surface air temperature, and in the summer, June, July and August (JJA), for minimum surface air temperature. Overall, there is no indication that either downscaling method has a direct advantage over the other. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Potential for diffuse parenchymal lung disease after exposures at World Trade Center Disaster site
Authors: Szeinuk Jaime , Padilla María , de la Hoz Rafael E.
Published: May 2008

Objective: The diffuse parenchymal lung diseases (DPLDs) are a heterogeneous group of disorders that result from damage to the lung parenchyma. While the cause of most DPLDs remains unknown, extensive epidemiological and experimental evidence has linked exposure to environmental toxins to the pathogenesis of some of those diseases. The purpose of this review is to examine the potential relation between exposure to toxins released from the World Trade Center (WTC) collapse on September 11th, 2001 and the development of DPLD based on published evidence up to date.

Methods: We examine such evidence from two points of view, (1) exposure, and (2) histopathogenesis. Exposure: Analyses of WTC‐dust and particle size demonstrate that some portion of the dust was composed of particles small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs, reaching distal airways and alveoli. The presence of such particles has been confirmed in studies of induced sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage in WTC‐exposed firefighters. Histopathogenesis: In vitro and animal experiments and patient evidence suggest that WTC dust is capable of inducing a pulmonary interstitial inflammatory response.

Results: To date, there have been limited clinical reports documenting the development of diffuse parenchymal responses following exposure to WTC dust. No single common pathologic response has been described. The one common denominator in the reports is that the individuals who developed disease were heavily exposed either during the disaster or during the initial 2‐to‐3 days following the disaster.

Conclusion: DLPDs are probably associated with heavy or extended exposure to the toxins released at the WTC disaster site. Coupled with the historical experience with exposures to occupational toxins this mandates continued long‐term clinical observation of this cohort. Mt Sinai J Med 75:101–107, 2008 © 2008 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Free radical copolymerization of 2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl α‐fluoroacrylate and tert‐butyl α‐trifluoromethylacrylate: Thermal and optical properties of the copolymers
Authors: Cracowski Jean‐Marc , Montembault Véronique , Hardy Isabelle , Bosc Dominique , Améduri Bruno , Fontaine Laurent
Published: May 2008

The radical copolymerization of 2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl α‐fluoroacrylate (FATRIFE) with tert‐butyl α‐trifluoromethylacrylate (MAF‐TBE) initiated by tert‐butyl 2,2‐dimethylperoxypropanoate was investigated in acetonitrile solution. A series of poly(FATRIFE‐co‐MAF‐TBE) copolymers were synthesized with MAF‐TBE compositions, determined by 19F NMR, ranging from 12 to 44 mol %. MAF‐TBE incorporation was less than 50 mol % as this monomer underwent no radical homopolymerization. The obtained copolymers exhibited number‐average molecular weights and polydispersity indexes ranging from 1.5 × 104 to 9.6 × 104 g/mol and from 1.5 to 3.1, respectively. The reactivity ratios were determined by the Kelen‐Tüdos method (rFATRIFE = 1.71 ± 0.01 and rMAF‐TBE = 0 at 74 °C) leading to random copolymers and alternating copolymers when the MAF‐TBE molar ratio in copolymer is close to 50 mol %. Thermal and optical properties of the resulting polymers were examined. Glass transition temperatures of copolymers were varying from 89 to 108 °C. Modifying the compositions of these copolymers allowed a precise control over the refractive index measured at 633, 1320, and 1550 nm. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 4383–4391, 2008
Representations of nature of science in high school chemistry textbooks over the past four decades
Authors: Abd‐El‐Khalick Fouad , Waters Mindy , Le An‐Phong
Published: May 2008

This study assessed the representations of nature of science (NOS) in high school chemistry textbooks and the extent to which these representations have changed during the past four decades. Analyses focused on the empirical, tentative, inferential, creative, theory‐driven, and social NOS, in addition to the myth of “The Scientific Method,” the nature of scientific theories and laws, and the social and cultural embeddedness of science. A total of 14 textbooks, including five “series” spanning one to four decades, were analyzed. The textbooks commanded significant market shares in the United States and were widely used in some of the most populace states. Relevant textbook sections were scored on each of the target NOS aspects on a scale ranging from −3 to +3, which reflected the accuracy, completeness, and manner (explicit versus implicit) in which these aspects were addressed. The textbooks fared poorly in their representations of NOS. Additionally, with a few exceptions, textbook scores either did not change or decreased over the past four decades. These trends are incommensurate with the discourse in national and international science education reform documents, which has witnessed an increasing emphasis on the centrality of NOS to scientific literacy and pre‐college science education during the same time period. Assessment and evaluation strategies, and policies need to be targeted if substantial and desired changes in the ways NOS is addressed in science textbooks are to be effected. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 45: 835–855, 2008
Contrasting characteristics in increasing and decreasing phases of the Nerita japonica (Mollusca: Gastropoda) population on a boulder shore
Authors: Takada Yoshitake
Published: May 2008

The present study demonstrated the seasonal and annual fluctuations in population characteristics of Nerita japonica on a boulder shore at Amakusa, Japan, and examined key characteristics in the increasing and decreasing phases for population monitoring. Monthly quantitative quadrat sampling and subsequent mark‐recapture experiments were carried out during two periods: from April 1989 to July 1990 (1st period), and from August 1991 to November 1992 (2nd period). The density of the population was in a decreasing phase during the 1st period and in an increasing phase during the 2nd period. The density increase coincided with the extension of the vertical distribution range to a lower tide level, increase in the number of recruitment events, increase in the proportion of juveniles within the population, and increase in the survival of juveniles and adults. The growth rate was slightly increased but the average shell length of adult cohorts did not show any change. Additional observations showed a continued density increase and range extension until 1994. On the other hand, the density decrease coincided with recruitment failure and a low rate of survival with an unchanged range of the vertical distribution. Thus, for monitoring the population of N. japonica, recruitment success and changes in density and distribution range are key characteristics, but the shell size is not. These findings show the potential usefulness of N. japonica as an indicator of the shore environment.
Optimization of Selective Lipase‐Catalyzed Feruloylated Monoacylglycerols by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Zheng Yan , Quan Jing , Zhu Li‐Min , Jiang Bo , Nie Hua‐Li
Published: May 2008

The use of solvent engineering to achieve selective enzymatic synthesis of feruloylated acylglycerols during the transesterification of ethyl ferulate with TAG was investigated. Novozym 435 catalyzed transesterification of ethyl ferulate and TAG resulted in a mixture of feruloylated monoacylglycerols (FMAG) and feruloylated diacylglycerols (FDAG). These feruloylated acylglycerols have recently received much attention because of their health benefits, antioxidant properties and UV absorption. However, FMAG in a pure form is more advantageous than the FMAG–FDAG mixture in exhibiting stabilizing, emulsifying and conditioning properties. Thus, it is significant to perform efficient selectivity in the synthetic process. In this present study, the effect of various solvent mixtures, including unitary, binary and ternary organic media selective enzymatic synthesis of feruloylated acylglycerols was investigated by response surface methodology. Selectivity towards FMAG substantially increased from 14.5% in the unitary solvent n‐hexane to 94.2% in the binary mixtures of 2‐methyl‐2‐butanol (2M2B) and toluene (1:1, v/v). The maximum conversion achieved was 75.4% in this binary mixture medium. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that 99.6% of the observed variation was explained by the polynomial model. Lack of fit analysis indicated that the regress equation was adequate for predicting the degree of the selectivity.
Plastic Surgery Reconstruction of the Diabetic Foot
Authors: Zgonis Thomas , Stapleton John J. , Rodriguez Roberto H. , Girard‐Powell Valerie A. , Cromack Douglas T.
Published: May 2008

SOFT TISSUE RECONSTRUCTION of the diabetic foot is a challenge for the perioperative team.

PRIMARY CLOSURE may not be an option and secondary healing may not be reliable. Therefore, surgery is vital and should be coordinated among a well‐functioning multidisciplinary team that specializes in caring for patients with diabetes mellitus.

TEAM MEMBERS must have expertise in reconstructive surgery to ensure adequate wound healing.

THIS ARTICLE EMPHASIZES the appropriate timing and staging of surgery, discusses the most common plastic surgery techniques, and underscores the importance of a team approach in the management of diabetic foot wounds. AORN J 87 (May 2008) 951‐966. © AORN, Inc, 2008.
Surgical Management of Diabetic Foot Infections and Amputations
Authors: Zgonis Thomas , Stapleton John J. , Girard‐Powell Valerie A. , Hagino Ryan T.
Published: May 2008

THE INCIDENCE OF DIABETES with severe foot infections (eg, necrotizing fasciitis, gas gangrene, ascending cellulitis, infection with systemic toxicity or metabolic instability) has risen significantly during the past decade.

FOOT INFECTIONS are a major cause of hospitalization and subsequent lower extremity amputation among patients with diabetes mellitus who have a history of a preexisting ulceration.

SURGICAL MANAGEMENT often is required to address severe diabetic foot infections because they can be limb‐ or life‐threatening. Critical limb ischemia, neuropathy, and an immunocompromised host, which often are associated with diabetic foot infections, complicate treatment and are associated with a poorer prognosis.AORN J87 (May 2008) 935–946. © AORN, Inc, 2008.
A novel function of peroxiredoxin 1 (Prx‐1) in apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1 (ASK1)‐mediated signaling pathway
Authors: Kim So Yong , Kim Tae Jin , Lee Ki-Young
Published: May 2008

We report a novel function of peroxiredoxin‐1 (Prx‐1) in the ASK1‐mediated signaling pathway. Prx‐1 interacts with ASK1 via the thioredoxin‐binding domain of ASK1 and this interaction is highly inducible by H2O2. However, catalytic mutants of Prx1, C52A, C173A, and C52A/C173A, could not undergo H2O2 inducible interactions, indicating that the redox‐sensitive catalytic activity of Prx‐1 is required for the interaction with ASK1. Prx‐1 overexpression inhibited the activation of ASK1, and resulted in the inhibition of downstream signaling cascades such as the MKK3/6 and p38 pathway. In Prx‐1 knockdown cells, ASK1, p38, and JNK were quickly activated, leading to apoptosis in response to H2O2. These findings suggest a negative role of Prx‐1 in ASK1‐induced apoptosis.
MULTIPLE SOLUTIONS FOR A DIRICHLET PROBLEM WITH p-LAPLACIAN AND SET-VALUED NONLINEARITY
Authors: AVERNA D. , MARANO S. A. , MOTREANU D.
Published: May 2008

The existence of a negative solution, of a positive solution, and of a sign-changing solution to a Dirichlet eigenvalue problem with p-Laplacian and multi-valued nonlinearity is investigated via sub- and supersolution methods as well as variational techniques for nonsmooth functions.
Safety of barley starch syrup in patients with allergy to cereals
Authors: Nermes Merja , Karvonen Henna , Sarkkinen Essi , Isolauri Erika
Published: May 2008

It is not known whether trace amounts of proteins that may remain in cereal-starch-derived food ingredients even after food processing can trigger allergic symptoms in cereal-allergic individuals. The aim of this study was to find out if barley starch syrup causes allergic reactions in patients with allergy to wheat, barley, rye or oats. Fifteen children with allergy to these cereals, confirmed by double-blind placebo-controlled food challenge (DBPCFC), were selected for the study. When exposed to cereals, seven of the children (47 %) showed immediate type reactions, such as urticaria, rash or anaphylaxis. Eight of the children (53 %) showed delayed type reactions, such as deterioration of atopic dermatitis or diarrhoea. The fifteen children with allergy to cereals were exposed to barley starch syrup in DBPCFC and none of them showed any objective signs of allergy. On skin-prick tests (SPT), five of the children (33·3 %) showed a positive ( ≥ 3 mm) reaction to at least one of the cereals but none of them to barley starch syrup. This study confirmed with 98 % confidence that at least 90 % of the patients with verified allergy to cereals will not react with allergic symptoms to barley starch syrup.
Simulation of sow herd dynamics with emphasis on performance and distribution of periodic task events
Authors: MARTEL G. , DEDIEU B. , DOURMAD J.-Y.
Published: May 2008

Currently, the diversity of sow herd management strategies has been described but there are no tools that explore how it promotes sow herd performance nor how it or performance are linked to work organization problems. The goal of the current study was to build a herd dynamic, stochastic object-oriented model capable of representing the herd dynamics and performance, and to predict the number of events workers will have to deal with. Each sow is individually represented in the model and the model works as a discrete event simulator with a predefined time step of 1 h. At each time step of simulation, the model searches for an event to be processed. An event may imply change of sow physiological state (e.g. oestrus, farrowing and insemination) and/or request an action from a worker (e.g. oestrous detection and farrowing supervision). This action may result in the planning of a new event (e.g. farrowing after mating) and/or modification of sow state (e.g. from oestrus to pregnant). The occurrences of some technical activities such as weaning are defined in time and frequency according to the management strategy of the farmer. The model is stochastic as sow biology is represented by several normal univariate distributions according to parity or by a threshold (fertility, abortion and mortality rates). When sows return into oestrus after mating they can be moved to another batch or culled depending on batch management strategy and culling policy. Outputs of this model focus on productivity of sows and distribution of tasks over the week. Definitions of the duration of simulation and number of replications to obtain the steady state and the variability of results are presented. The model is able to simulate several batch farrowing systems (BFS) and results of 1-, 3- and 4-week BFS are presented. Several simulations with modified management (no oestrous detection during the weekend and change of the weaning day) or with modified sow biology (increased variability of the weaning-to-oestrus interval and lower fertility rate) are performed. Results indicate that these modifications have specific consequences on performance and task distribution according to the BFS. The model provides useful information concerning the effects of herd management strategies on productivity and distribution of events over time and their sensitivity to biological criteria.
Flow over a thin circular disk at low to moderate Reynolds numbers
Authors: SHENOY A. R. , KLEINSTREUER C.
Published: May 2008

Computation of viscous flow over a circular disk of aspect ratio 10 (thickness/diameter) in the Reynolds number (Re) range of 10 to 300 was performed. The following flow regimes were observed: (I) steady axisymmetric flow whenRe< 135, with the presence of a toroidal vortex behind the disk; (II) regular bifurcation with loss of azimuthal symmetry but with planar symmetry and a double-threaded wake, for 135 ≤Re< 155; (III) three-dimensional flow with periodic shedding of double-sided hairpin-shaped vortex structures and periodic motion of the separation region for 155 ≤Re< 172; (IV) regular shedding of double-sided hairpin-shaped vortex structures with planar and spatio-temporal symmetry for 172 ≤Re< 280; (V) periodic three-dimensional flow with irregular rotation of the separation region whenRe= 280–300. This transition process for the disk differs from that for the sphere as we observe a loss of the symmetry plane in Regime III due to a twisting motion of the axial vorticity strands in the wake of the disk. The periodic flow was characterized by double-sided hairpin structures, unlike the one-sided vortex loops observed for the sphere. This resulted in the drag coefficient oscillating at twice the frequency of the axial velocity. In Regime IV, the vortex loops were shed from diametrically opposite locations and with equal strength, resulting in the lift coefficient oscillating symmetrically about a zero mean. These results imply the presence of spatio-temporal symmetry.
Early oral feeding following total laryngectomy
Authors: Aswani J , Thandar M , Otiti J , Fagan J
Published: May 2008

Objectives:

To determine whether, in a developing world context, early oral feeding after laryngectomy is safe, cost-effective and appropriate.

Study design:

A prospective study of early oral feeding after laryngectomy, compared with retrospective, historical delayed feeding controls.

Method:

Forty patients underwent total laryngectomy for advanced carcinoma of the larynx with or without hypopharyngeal involvement, not requiring tongue base resection or myocutaneous flaps, and were commenced on oral feeding on the second post-operative day. Thirty-nine laryngectomy patients previously managed in the same unit who had received conventional, delayed oral feeding served as controls.

Results:

Pharyngocutaneous fistulae developed in 20 per cent of the early feeding patients, compared with 15.4 per cent of the delayed oral feeding controls (p = 0.592). For patients who did not develop fistulae, hospitalisation was shorter in the early oral feeding group (p = 0.007).

Conclusion:

Early oral feeding for laryngectomy patients is recommended, both in developed and developing countries.
Evaluation of caspase-3 and caspase-8 deregulation in tongue squamous cell carcinoma, based on immunohistochemistry and computerised image analysis
Authors: Andressakis D , Lazaris A C , Tsiambas E , Kavantzas N , Rapidis A , Patsouris E
Published: May 2008

Aims:

To investigate the potential role of caspase-3 and caspase-8 protein expression in the biological behaviour of tongue squamous cell carcinoma.

Materials and methods:

We conducted immunohistochemical analyses of 87 specimens of primary tongue squamous cell carcinoma, using monoclonal anti-caspase-3 and anti-caspase-8 antibodies. A digital image analysis assay was also performed in order to evaluate the results.

Results:

Reduced expression of caspase-8 and -3 proteins was observed in 30/87 (34.5 per cent) and 79/87 (90.5 per cent) cases, respectively. Cox regression analysis showed no prognostic significance for the association between overall protein expression of either marker and survival probability (p = 0.174 for caspase-3; p = 0.608 for caspase-8). Interestingly, the size of the examined tumours was strongly correlated with survival status (p = 0.024).

Conclusions:

Simultaneous deregulation of caspase-8 and -3 is a frequent event in tongue squamous cell carcinoma. Activation of caspase-3, which is predominantly down-regulated, may be a crucial process for induction of apoptosis and response to therapeutic strategies.
Tuplespace-based computing for the Semantic Web: a survey of the state-of-the-art
Authors: NIXON LYNDON J. B. , SIMPERL ELENA , KRUMMENACHER RETO , MARTIN-RECUERDA FRANCISCO
Published: May 2008

Semantic technologies promise to solve many challenging problems of the present Web applications. As they achieve a feasible level of maturity, they become increasingly accepted in various business settings at enterprise level. By contrast, their usability in open environments such as the Web—with respect to issues such asscalability,dynamismandopenness—still requires additional investigation. In particular, Semantic Web services have inherited the Web service communication model, which is primarily based on synchronous message exchange technology such as remote procedure call (RPC), thus being incompatible with the REST (REpresentational State Transfer) architectural model of the Web. Recent advances in the field of middleware propose‘semantic tuplespace computing’as an instrument for coping with this situation. Arguing that truly Web-compliant Web service communication should be based, analogously to the conventional Web, on shared access to persistently published data instead of message passing, space-based middleware introduces acoordination infrastructureby means of which services can exchange information in a time- and reference-decoupled manner. In this article, we introduce the most important approaches in this newly emerging field. Our objective is to analyze and compare the solutions proposed so far, thus giving an account of the current state-of-the-art, and identifying new directions of research and development.
Older people's satisfaction with intermediate care: a systematic review
Authors: Wilson Andrew , Richards Suzanne , Camosso-Stefinovic Janette
Published: May 2008

Although intermediate care takes a variety of different forms and has developed somewhat differently in different countries, we believe that intermediate-care schemes have enough in common to make it meaningful to examine the relationship between this method of care and the views of older patients receiving either it or its alternatives. This is particularly important as one of the underlying principles of intermediate care is to extend patient choice; furthermore, most intermediate-care services target older people. In this review we examine evidence about whether older people prefer intermediate or hospital care, and what they like and dislike about intermediate care.
A one-day education in soft tissue massage: Experiences and opinions as evaluated by nursing staff in palliative care
Authors: Cronfalk Berit Seiger , Friedrichsen Maria , Milberg Anna , Strang Peter
Published: May 2008

Objective:

Increasing awareness of well-being aspects of physical touch has spurred the appreciation for soft tissue massage (STM) as part of palliative care. Educational programs are available but with no specific focus on utilization for this kind of care. The aim was to study the feasibility of a 1-day course in STM in clarifying nursing staff's experiences and opinions, but also to shed light on their motivation and ability to employ STM in the care of dying cancer patients.

Method:

In all, 135 nursing staff participated. The course consisted of theory and hands-on training (hand-foot-, back massage). Focus-groups with 30/135 randomly chosen participants were conducted 4 weeks after the intervention. This study engaged a qualitative approach using content analysis.

Results:

The overall opinion of the 1-day course was positive. The majority experienced the contents of the course to be adequate and sufficient for clinical care. They emphasized the pedagogical expertise as valuable for the learning process. The majority of nurses shared the opinion that their extended knowledge clarified their attitudes on STM as a complement in palliative care. Still, a few found it to be too basic and/or intimate. Three categories emerged during the analysis: experiences of and attitudes toward the education, experiences of implementing the skills in every-day care situations, and attitudes to the physical body in nursing care.

Significance of results:

The approach to learning and the pedagogical skills of the teacher proved to be of importance for how new knowledge was perceived among nurses. The findings may encourage hospital organizations to introduce short courses in STM as an alternative to more extensive education.
Vertical structure of particle properties and water content in noctilucent clouds
Authors: Baumgarten G. , Fiedler J.
Published: May 2008

Noctilucent clouds (NLC) have been observed by lidar in Norway (69N, 16E) between 1998 and 2005 to study the vertical variation of particle properties inside the clouds. We find that the maximum size of the particles is reached below the altitude of maximum backscattering. The mean radius of the particle ensemble increases from 38.1 ± 1.1 nm 0.9 km above the peak to 58.5 ± 2.5 nm, 0.6 km below the peak of the layer. At the peak the particle size is 47.7 nm. The distribution width increases from 14.0 nm to 17.7 nm and the number density decreases from 133/cm3 to 29/cm3 from top to bottom of the layer. The unexpected observation that the largest particles are not found at the peak of the layer indicates that the supersaturated region extends below the brightness peak of the layer. We observe that the distribution width is an indicator for the cloud age.
Effects of growth temperature on InN∕GaN nanodots grown by metal organic chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Chang Wen-Hao , Ke Wen-Cheng , Yu Shu-Hung , Lee Lin , Chen Ching-Yu , Tsai Wen-Che , Lin Hsuan , Chou Wu-Ching , Lee Ming-Chih , Chen Wei-Kuo
Published: May 2008

InN nanodots grown on GaN by metal organic chemical vapor deposition using conventional growth mode as well as flow-rate modulation epitaxy at various growth temperatures (550–730°C) were investigated. We found that different precursor injection schemes together with the effect of growth temperatures greatly influenced the surface morphology of InN nanodots and their photoluminescence (PL) properties. The sample grown at around 650°C showed the highest growth rate. For samples grown at higher temperatures, the residual carrier concentration was reduced and the PL efficiency was improved. Furthermore, we found that the growth of InN nanodots is still sustainable even at a temperature higher than 700°C while retaining their optical quality.
A Monte Carlo algorithm to study polymer translocation through nanopores. II. Scaling laws
Authors: Gauthier Michel G. , Slater Gary W.
Published: May 2008

In the first paper of this series, we developed a new one-dimensional Monte Carlo approach for the study of flexible chains that are translocating through a small channel. We also presented a numerical scheme that can be used to obtain exact values for both the escape times and the escape probabilities given an initial pore-polymer configuration. We now present and discuss the fundamental scaling behaviors predicted by this Monte Carlo method. Our most important result is the fact that, in the presence of an external bias E, we observe a change in the scaling law for the translocation time τ as function of the polymer length N: In the general expression τ∼Nβ∕E, the exponent changes from β=1 for moderately long chains to β=1+ν or β=2ν for very large values of N (for Rouse and Zimm dynamics, respectively). We also observe an increase in the effective diffusion coefficient due to the presence of entropic pulling on unbiased polymer chains.
Raman spectra of epitaxial graphene on SiC(0001)
Authors: Röhrl J. , Hundhausen M. , Emtsev K. V. , Seyller Th. , Graupner R. , Ley L.
Published: May 2008

We present Raman spectra of epitaxial graphene layers grown on 63×63 reconstructed silicon carbide surfaces during annealing at elevated temperature. In contrast to exfoliated graphene a significant phonon hardening is observed. We ascribe that phonon hardening to a minor part to the known electron transfer from the substrate to the epitaxial layer, and mainly to mechanical strain that builds up when the sample is cooled down after annealing. Due to the larger thermal expansion coefficient of silicon carbide compared to the in-plane expansion coefficient of graphite this strain is compressive at room temperature.
EM-random forest and new measures of variable importance for multi-locus quantitative trait linkage analysis
Authors: Lee Sophia S. F. , Sun Lei , Kustra Rafal , Bull Shelley B.
Published: May 2008

Motivation: We developed an EM-random forest (EMRF) for Haseman–Elston quantitative trait linkage analysis that accounts for marker ambiguity and weighs each sib-pair according to the posterior identical by descent (IBD) distribution. The usual random forest (RF) variable importance (VI) index used to rank markers for variable selection is not optimal when applied to linkage data because of correlation between markers. We define new VI indices that borrow information from linked markers using the correlation structure inherent in IBD linkage data.

Results: Using simulations, we find that the new VI indices in EMRF performed better than the original RF VI index and performed similarly or better than EM-Haseman–Elston regression LOD score for various genetic models. Moreover, tree size and markers subset size evaluated at each node are important considerations in RFs.

Availability: The source code for EMRF written in C is available at www.infornomics.utoronto.ca/downloads/EMRF

Contact:  bull@mshri.on.ca

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at www.infornomics.utoronto.ca/downloads/EMRF
Lymphocytotoxic crossmatch in pediatric living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Saito Takeshi , Mizuta Koichi , Hishikawa Shuji , Kawano Youichi , Sanada Yukihiro , Fujiwara Takehito , Yasuda Yoshikazu , Sugimoto Koichi , Sakamoto Koichi , Kawarasaki Hideo
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  To investigate the relationship between the pretransplant LCT results and the outcome after pediatric LDLT in a single center. The clinical data of 76 children undergoing 79 LDLTs including three retransplantations from May 2001 to January 2006 were retrospectively analyzed. All of the children had end‐stage liver disease, and their median age was 1.4 yr (range, six months to 16.5 yr). Immunosuppressive therapy consisted of cyclosporine‐ or FK‐based regimens with steroids. The children were classified into two groups (positive or negative) according to the pretransplant LCT results. The incidences of post‐transplant surgical complications and of rejection episodes were compared. The relationship between the pretransplant LCT results and patient and graft survival rates was also analyzed. Seventy‐nine pretransplant crossmatch tests were done; 13 (16.5%) were positive, and 66 (83.5%) were negative. No significant difference was found in the pretransplant clinical factors between two crossmatch groups. There was no significant difference between the groups in the incidence of vascular and biliary tract complications, in the rate of early or steroid‐resistant cellular rejections, or in one‐ and three‐yr patient (91.7%, 91.7%, respectively, in the positive group, 93.5%, 93.5%, respectively, in the negative group, p = 0.80) and graft (92.3%, 92.3%, respectively, in the positive group, 88.8%, 86.4%, respectively, in the negative group, p = 0.63) survival. The present study demonstrates that there is no reason to do pretransplant LCT to select the living donor for pediatric LDLT.
Clinicopathologic presentations of dermatomycoses in cancer patients
Authors: Quatresooz P , Piérard‐Franchimont C , Arrese JE , Piérard GE
Published: May 2008

Many of the skin fungal infections in cancer patients may look similar to those infections in non‐cancer patients. However, in some cases, they become more extensive and even life threatening. Prolonged and severe neutropenia is the main risk factor for the dramatic issue of fungal infections. The dermatomycoses in cancer patients can be classified in four broad groups: primary superficial dermatophytoses, primary superficial yeast infections, opportunistic mold infections with distinct potential for dissemination and secondary cutaneous manifestations of fungaemia. Occasionally, more than one fungus are found inside a given skin lesion. A special condition is represented by the mycotic colonization of mucosal squamous cell carcinomas. Angio‐invasion by fungi accounts for the frequency of disseminated infections prevailing in immunocompromised cancer patients. In case of skin involvement, the dermatologist may assist by recognizing subtle semiological signs and performing biopsies for swift histological examination, molecular biology and/or culture.
Who Is Hispanic? Hispanic Identity among African Americans, Asian Americans, Others, and Whites*
Authors: Choi Kate H. , Sakamoto Arthur , Powers Daniel
Published: May 2008

Hispanics are now the largest minority group in the United States and their presence is likely to continue to expand. Little is known, however, about the correlates of Hispanic identity or the processes that are involved in its maintenance. We investigate these issues by ascertaining and then seeking to understand the various associations between reported racial identities and Hispanic ethnicity using data from the Current Population Surveys. Restricting the sample to individuals who are known to have demographic origins in Latin America, our results indicate that persons with African or Asian racial identifications are substantially less likely than whites or Others to also identify as Hispanic. Relative to the first generation, Hispanic identification declines and the racial differences increase in the second generation. The exceptions in this regard are Others for whom racial and Hispanic identifications are the most highly associated for both the first and second generations. These findings are interpreted as reflecting various social processes that are involved in the development and maintenance of racial and ethnic identities. Our results provide insight into the complex, social nature of Hispanic identification in modern America.
Institutional Stickiness and the New Development Economics
Authors: Boettke Peter J. , Coyne Christopher J. , Leeson Peter T.
Published: May 2008

Abstract.  Research examining the importance of path dependence and culture for institutions and development tells us that “history matters,” but not how history matters. To provide this missing “how,” we provide a framework for understanding institutional “stickiness” based on the regression theorem. The regression theorem maintains that the stickiness, and therefore likely success, of any proposed institutional change is a function of that institution's status in relationship to indigenous agents in the previous time period. This framework for analyzing institutional stickiness creates the core of what we call the New Development Economics. Historical cases of postwar reconstruction and transition efforts provide evidence for our claim.
Transcriptional regulation of ASK/Dbf4 in cutaneous melanoma is dependent on E2F1
Authors: Nambiar Sandeep , Mirmohammadsadegh Alireza , Hassan Mohamed , Hegemann Johannes H. , Hengge Ulrich R.
Published: May 2008

Background:  Melanoma is a complex genetic disease, the management of which will require an in‐depth understanding of the biology underlying its initiation and progression. Recently, we have reported the differential regulation of a novel gene, namely ASK/Dbf4, in melanoma and suggested upregulation of ASK/Dbf4 as a novel molecular determinant with prognostic relevance that confers a proliferative advantage in cutaneous melanoma. As trans‐acting factor binding is fundamental to understand the regulation of gene expression, this study focuses on characterization of the specific transcriptional regulation of ASK/Dbf4 in melanoma.

Objective:  We investigated whether ASK/Dbf4 is a transcriptional target of the important cell cycle regulator E2F1 in melanoma.

Results:  As evidenced by gel supershift assays on nuclear extracts from various melanoma cell lines (SK‐MEL‐28, MV3, M13, A375 and BLM), E2F1 bound to the ASK/Dbf4 minimal promoter (MP). In addition, cisplatin‐mediated abrogation of E2F1 binding to the ASK/Dbf4 MP resulted in a transcriptional decrease in ASK/Dbf4. Further, the current study also demonstrated that ASK/Dbf4 regulation was refractory to UVB, a well‐known risk factor for melanoma.

Conclusions:  In summary, our study not only elucidated that ASK/Dbf4, a novel cell survival gene in melanoma was transcriptionally regulated by E2F1, but also that the induction of ASK/Dbf4 was refractory to UVB exposure suggesting that its upregulation was not an early event in melanomagenesis.
The Consolidation of the White Southern Congressional Vote: The Roles of Ideology and Party Identification
Authors: Wink Kenneth A. , Bargen Andrew
Published: May 2008

This article examines the effects of party identification and ideology on white southerners’ vote choices in U.S. House races from 1980 to 1994. Using American National Election Studies data, we employ descriptive statistics and a variety of regression techniques to test these relationships. We find party identification was more important in explaining vote choice in the election of 1994 than in previous years, and a majority of white southerners first identified with Republicans in 1994. We also find ideology had an independent effect on party identification for white southerners throughout the time series. We conclude that increasingly class‐based, ideologically polarized parties, opposition to President Clinton and his health care plan, the success of the Republicans in framing the election as a national ideological struggle, and race‐based redistricting after 1990 created a tendency of conservative white southerners to identify with Republicans and to vote for Republican House candidates in 1994.
Brunfelsia spp (Yesterday, today, tomorrow) toxicity in four dogs
Authors: SINGH M , COWAN S , CHILD G
Published: May 2008

Four dogs were treated for acute toxicity following ingestion of the popular garden shrub ‘Yesterday, today, tomorrow’ (Brunfelsia spp). Clinical signs included vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle tremors, anxiousness, opisthotonus and seizures. All dogs recovered following treatment with any or all of general anaesthetic, gastric lavage, enema, diazepam, phenobarbitone or propofol sedation. Brunfelsia spp toxicity should be considered in young, previously healthy dogs presenting with gastrointestinal signs that rapidly progress to muscle tremors and seizures. Examination of faeces was required for diagnosis in all cases. Owners should also be questioned thoroughly about their dogs’ access to such plants.
Acute myelomonocytic leukaemia with short‐term spontaneous remission in a cat
Authors: MYLONAKIS ME , PETANIDES TA , VALLI VE , VERNAU W , KOYTINAS AF , MICHAEL RS
Published: May 2008

A 2‐year‐old, spayed female domestic shorthair cat was referred with a history of anorexia and depression of 1 week duration. On physical examination, the cat was lethargic and febrile, with splenomegaly, anisocoria and ulcerative stomatitis. A complete blood count (CBC) and a biochemistry profile showed leukocytosis, numerous blast cells in the peripheral blood, thrombocytopenia, hyperglobulinaemia and a positive test for feline leukaemia virus antigen. A diagnosis of acute myelomonocytic leukaemia was made on the basis of the results of bone marrow cytology, histopathology, and immunochemistry (CD3, CD79a, lysozyme, and myeloperoxidase) tests. Following an unexpected 1‐month period of clinical and clinicopathological remission without chemotherapy, the cat relapsed and died 1 week later.
Serological survey for evidence of Leptospira interrogans in free‐living platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)
Authors: LOEWENSTEIN L , MCLACHLAN‐TROUP T , HARTLEY M , ENGLISH A
Published: May 2008

Objective  To survey free‐living platypuses for evidence of Leptospira interrogans.

Methods  A serological study of Leptospira antibodies was carried out on 21 platypuses captured between May and October 2001 in the Wollondilly River 200 km south of Sydney, New South Wales.

Results  Positive reactions, all to the L Hardjo serovar, were seen in 14 (66%) of the captured animals, with adult males showing a higher prevalence of antibodies than adult females. Several individual platypuses showed a high titre of L Hardjo antibodies, and some animals demonstrated cross‐reactions to the serovars L Medanensis and L Kremastos.

Conclusion  The serological findings demonstrate that these animals are constantly exposed to infection with Leptospira in their environment, but it is not known if platypuses suffer from clinical leptospirosis or if they mount an immune response, but are unaffected by the bacteria. The prevalence of Leptospira infection among the platypus population could not be precisely estimated because of the unknown number of individuals inhabiting the Wollondilly River inside the survey property. Domestic livestock, mostly cattle, may be the major source of Leptospira infection. The effects of this disease on population dynamics and on reproduction in wild platypuses are not well understood. The role of other wildlife in the transmission and maintenance of Leptospira in the environment is unknown.
Tonic inhibition and ponto‐geniculo‐occipital‐related activities shape abducens motoneuron discharge during REM sleep
Authors: Escudero Miguel , Márquez‐Ruiz Javier
Published: May 2008

Eye movements, ponto‐geniculo‐occipital (PGO) waves, muscular atonia and desynchronized cortical activity are the main characteristics of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Although eye movements designate this phase, little is known about the activity of the oculomotor system during REM sleep. In this work, we recorded binocular eye movements by the scleral search‐coil technique and the activity of identified abducens (ABD) motoneurons along the sleep–wake cycle in behaving cats. The activity of ABD motoneurons during REM sleep was characterized by a tonic decrease of their mean firing rate throughout this period, and short bursts and pauses coinciding with the occurrence of PGO waves. We demonstrate that the decrease in the mean firing discharge was due to an active inhibition of ABD motoneurons, and that the occurrence of primary and secondary PGO waves induced a pattern of simultaneous but opposed phasic activation and inhibition on each ABD nucleus. With regard to eye movements, during REM sleep ABD motoneurons failed to codify eye position as during alertness, but continued to codify eye velocity. The pattern of tonic inhibition and the phasic activations and inhibitions shown by ABD motoneurons coincide with those reported in other non‐oculomotor motoneurons, indicating that the oculomotor system – contrary to what has been accepted until now – is not different from other motor systems during REM sleep, and that all motor systems are receiving similar command signals during this period.