bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personality and Academic Performance of Three Cohorts of Veterinary Students in South Africa
Authors: van der Walt H.S. , Pickworth Glynis
Published: January 2008

To aid in selecting students for admission to undergraduate veterinary training, admissions procedures often take into account students’ previous academic performance as well as the results of an interview. The study reported here investigated the relationship between personality and academic success. Students from three entry cohorts to the second year of study of a six-year BVSc program at the University of Pretoria completed the 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire. A meta-analytic approach was used to estimate the relationship between academic performance in two major final-year subjects and academic performance on entry, an interview score, and the personality factors. The study confirmed the value of previous academic performance and the interview in selecting students for the veterinary degree program. The findings also indicate that the inclusion of a measure of intellectual ability could be of value. The value of various personality characteristics in predicting good study habits and examination performance is highlighted by the study results: students were more successful if they were conscientious, emotionally stable, socially adept, self-disciplined, practical rather than imaginative, and relaxed rather than anxious. It appears worthwhile to consider including an appropriate personality questionnaire in the selection process to improve the accuracy of predictions of students’ success. A sound personality make-up will not only increase the likelihood of academic success but should also be beneficial in the successful management of a veterinary practice and in enjoying veterinary science as a career.
Modified ASTM C 1293 Test Method to Investigate Potential of Potassium Acetate Deicer Solution to Cause Alkali-Silica Reaction
Authors: Rangaraju Prasada Rao , Sompura Ketan R. , Olek Jan
Published: January 2008

Following the recent investigations by FAA into premature deterioration of some airfield concrete pavements that were exposed to deicing chemicals, a comprehensive research study was undertaken to examine the role of deicing solutions in causing alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in mortar and concrete test specimens. It was conducted to evaluate the influence of a potassium acetate deicer and anti-icer in causing ASR distress in concrete specimens. A modified ASTM C 1293 test method was employed in this investigation, in which concrete prisms prepared with aggregates of known reactivity were exposed to 50% solution of potassium acetate (KAc) or 1 normal solution of sodium hydroxide (1N NaOH) during the course of testing. Expansion of the concrete test prisms was monitored periodically, along with changes in their dynamic modulus of elasticity. In addition, visual and scanning electron microscopic examinations were conducted on polished specimens at the conclusion of tests. The pH of the deicer soak solution was monitored to detect any changes caused by its interaction with the specimens. Findings from the study indicate that potassium acetate deicer solution is capable of causing significant ASR distress in concrete specimens containing reactive aggregates. A secondary reaction product, composed primarily of a potassium sulfate phase, was observed in prisms containing both reactive and non-reactive aggregates. This product was predominantly found as an infilling in cracks and voids. Additional research needs are identified to help to decipher the precise mechanisms involved in this attack.
The Design of Roads and of the Road Environment in Small Rural Communities
Authors: Lindenmann Hans Peter
Published: January 2008

The design of roads and of the road environment for main thoroughfares in rural communities has changed completely in many countries over recent years. Previously, road planning revolved around capacity and road safety, whereas today the design of roads and of the road environment includes a wide variety of safety and usage requirements. The new planning and design principles that were developed and introduced in the 1990s–above all, those of the linkage and the compartmentalization of space around and along roads, and the rejection of traffic separation in favor of mixed traffic–have led to usable public spaces in the centers of provincial towns and villages in Switzerland. The consequences are lower speeds and greater recognition–and thus, consideration–of the traffic activity on the sides. Road safety can therefore be boosted for all road users. The present article describes the way in which the philosophy of planning has changed and the experiences that have arisen from such changes.
Development of a Model for Freeway Green Landscape Evaluation
Authors: Lu Jian , Yuan Li , Ge Quanmin
Published: January 2008

The freeway green landscape is an important part of freeway systems, as the landscape provides a scenic view and performs other functions, such as preventing glare in median areas, enhancing a soil stability in slope embankment areas, and protecting ecology in roadside areas. Traditionally, the green landscape has been evaluated on the basis of the quality of the scenic view without consideration of the functional quality. This paper summarizes a research project to develop procedures and models for the evaluation of the freeway green landscape. The main evaluation indices considered in the evaluation procedures and models are the antiglare capability in median areas, the enhancement of soil stability in slope embankment areas, and the protection of ecology in roadside areas. In addition, quality of the landscape scenic view is another important factor that affects green landscape quality. The main purpose of the models is to convert evaluation indices to an overall quality measure that represents the overall quality of the freeway green landscape. The conversion is based on multivariable regression models and expert opinion survey models. Field data were collected by field survey-ors, who collected index data and a panel that provided subjective ratings of the green landscape in the median, slope embankment, and roadside areas. Both data sets were used for regression analysis and modeling purposes. Conversely, an expert opinion survey was conducted to obtain subjective opinions on the model weights. The models developed were validated by objective and subjective methods. The validation results show a strong correlation between the subjective evaluation and the objective evaluation: the models are effective and reasonable. In the past 18 months, these models have been used in practical applications, and the models' good applicability has been proved.
Context-Sensitive Solutions, ValueEngineering, and Asset Management
Authors: Venner Marie , Ostria Sergio , D'Ignazio Janet , Ang-Olson Jeff , Youman Mark
Published: January 2008

Context-sensitive solutions, value engineering or value analysis, and asset management systems are all strategic processes or systems with common objectives, even if they have different emphases. All place a high value on customer satisfaction, stakeholder values, and the delivery or maintenance of safe facilities. All stress the efficient and effective use of resources and the alignment of investments to produce the best outcomes or the most quality for the money. All are open to a broad interpretation of the word “best,” but they are challenged by the measurement of performance in areas that are more difficult to quantify. They share an emphasis on transparency, multidisciplinary teams and perspectives, and analytical, evidence-based decision making. They use processes that examine multiple alternatives to finding consensus on ultimate decisions. Especially when they are used together or in tandem, these tools and systems can be used as part of strategic and systematic approaches that have a significant potential for the delivery of transportation assets with greater sustainability and public funding and support for transportation, the community, and the natural environment. This paper examines the principles, similarities, and opportunities for reinforcement of these approaches.
Living with genetic risk: Effect on adolescent self‐concept
Authors: McConkie‐Rosell Allyn , Spiridigliozzi Gail A. , Melvin Elizabeth , Dawson Deborah V. , Lachiewicz Ave M.
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study is to describe the interplay of adolescent girls' and young womens' self‐concept, coping behaviors, and adjustment associated with knowledge of genetic risk for fragile X syndrome. We will report here findings on self‐concept. Using a multi‐group cross‐sectional design this study focused on girls ages 14–25 years from families previously diagnosed with fragile X syndrome, who knew they were (1) carriers (n = 20; mean age 18.35 years s.d. 2.5), or (2) noncarriers (n = 18; mean age 17.78 years s.d. 2.69), or (3) at‐risk to be carriers (n = 15; mean age 17.87 s.d. 3.18). The girls completed the Tennessee Self‐Concept Scale (TSCS:2), a visual analog scale, and a guided interview. Total and all subscale scores on the TSCS:2 were in the normal range for all three groups. However, threats to self‐concept were found in personal self (physical self, genetic identity, and parental role), social self, and family self (family genetic identity) as they specifically related to the meaning of genetic information and varied based on risk status. Our findings suggest that risk information itself is threatening and for some girls, may be as threatening as learning one is a carrier. Certainty related to genetic risk status appears to make a positive difference for some girls by allowing them the opportunity to face the challenge of their genetic risk status and to begin to consider the meaning of this information. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
cAMP‐dependent protein kinase A and the dynamics of epithelial cell surface domains: Moving membranes to keep in shape
Authors: Wojtal Kacper A. , Hoekstra Dick , van IJzendoorn Sven C.D.
Published: January 2008

Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and cAMP‐dependent protein kinase A (PKA) are evolutionary conserved molecules with a well‐established position in the complex network of signal transduction pathways. cAMP/PKA‐mediated signaling pathways are implicated in many biological processes that cooperate in organ development including the motility, survival, proliferation and differentiation of epithelial cells. Cell surface polarity, here defined as the anisotropic organisation of cellular membranes, is a critical parameter for most of these processes. Changes in the activity of cAMP/PKA elicit a variety of effects on intracellular membrane dynamics, including membrane sorting and trafficking. One of the most intriguing aspects of cAMP/PKA signaling is its evolutionary conserved abundance on the one hand and its precise spatial–temporal actions on the other. Here, we review recent developments with regard to the role of cAMP/PKA in the regulation of intracellular membrane trafficking in relation to the dynamics of epithelial surface domains. BioEssays 30:146–155, 2008. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Vitamin D discovery outpaces FDA decision making
Authors: Marshall Trevor G.
Published: January 2008

The US FDA currently encourages the addition of vitamin D to milk and cereals, with the aim of reducing rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults. However, vitamin D not only regulates the expression of genes associated with calcium homeostasis, but also genes associated with cancers, autoimmune disease, and infection. It does this by controlling the activation of the vitamin D receptor (VDR), a type 1 nuclear receptor and DNA transcription factor. Molecular biology is rapidly coming to an understanding of the multiplicity of roles played by the VDR, but clinical medicine is having difficulty keeping up with the pace of change. For example, the FDA recently proposed a rule change that will encourage high levels of vitamin D to be added to even more foods, so that the manufacturers can claim those foods “reduce the risk of osteoporosis”. The FDA docket does not review one single paper detailing the transcriptional activity of vitamin D, even though, on average, one new paper a day is being published on that topic. Nor do they review whether widespread supplementation with vitamin D, an immunomodulatory secosteroid, might predispose the population to immune dysfunction. This BioEssay explores how lifelong supplementation of the food chain with vitamin D might well be contributing to the current epidemics of obesity and chronic disease. BioEssays 30:173–182, 2008. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Editorial: Advances in biotech
Authors: Janssens Barbara
Published: January 2008

As Biotechnology Journal is entering its third volume, its shape and branding become more defined. After the success of last year's “Methods and Advances in Biotech” issue, I would like to quickly glance back at BTJ 2007 content (Table 1), and consider a frame for future directions to take in 2008.
A Meldrum's Acid Catalyzed Synthesis of Bis(indolyl)methanes in Water under Ultrasonic Condition
Authors: WANG Shun‐Yi , JI Shun‐Jun , SU Xiao‐Ming
Published: January 2008

A highly effective Meldrum's acid catalyzed synthesis of bis(indol‐3‐yl)methanes has been developed. This reaction provides the corresponding bis(indol‐3‐yl)methanes in high yields after short reaction time in the presence of 2 mol % catalyst in water under ultrasonic condition.
Electrocarboxylation of Acetophenone to 2‐Hydroxy‐2‐phenylpropionic Acid in the Presence of CO2
Authors: ZHANG Li , XIAO Li‐Ping , NIU Dong‐Fang , LUO Yi‐Wen , LU Jia‐Xing
Published: January 2008

Electrocarboxylation of acetophenone with CO2 to obtain 2‐hydroxy‐2‐phenylpropionic acid was carried out in acetonitrile solution containing 0.1 mol·L−1 tetraethylammonium bromide. Influences of the nature of the electrodes, the working potential, the passed charge and the concentration of acetophenone on the electrocarboxylation were studied. After optimizing the synthetic parameters, the maximal isolated yield reached 73.0% on Mg‐stainless steel couple electrodes under potentiostatic electrolysis until 2.2 F·mol−1 of charge was passed at 25 °C. The reduction of acetophenone was studied by cyclic voltammetry and the mechanism has been proposed on the basis of the results.
Adsorption of 4‐tert‐Butylpyridine on TiO2 Surface in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: XIONG Bi‐Tao , ZHOU Bao‐Xue , ZHU Zhi‐Yan , GAO Tao , LI Long‐Hai , CAI Jun , CAI Wei‐Min
Published: January 2008

4‐tert‐Butylpyridine (4‐TBP) has been widely used as additive in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSC), owing to its improvement of the fill factor and the open circuit voltage of DSC. In this paper, the adsorption of 4‐TBP on the rutile TiO2(110) surface in DSC was studied by using the density functional theory at DFT/B3LYP level. By comparing the results with those attained from experiments, it was concluded that the 4‐TBP could chemiadsorb on the incompletely covered surface Ti atoms in the electrode. The probable mechanism of compressed recombination by coordinated 4‐TBP in DSC was proposed.
Triplet‐State Aromaticity of 4nπ‐Electron Monocycles: Analysis of Bifurcation in the π Contribution to the Electron Localization Function
Authors: Villaume Sebastien , Fogarty Heather A. , Ottosson Henrik
Published: January 2008

The π contribution to the electron localization function (ELF) is used to compare 4nπ‐ and (4n+2)π‐electron annulenes, with particular focus on the aromaticity of 4nπ‐electron annulenes in their lowest triplet state. The analysis is performed on the electron density obtained at the level of OLYP density functional theory, as well as at the CCSD and CASSCF ab initio levels. Two criteria for aromaticity of all‐carbon annulenes are set up: the span in the bifurcation values ΔBV(ELFπ) should be small, ideally zero, and the bifurcation value for ring closure of the π basin RCBV(ELFπ) should be high (≥ 0.7). On the basis of these criteria, nearly all 4nπ‐electron annulenes are aromatic in their lowest triplet states, similar to (4n+2)π‐electron annulenes in their singlet ground states. For singlet biradical cyclobutadiene and cyclooctatetraene constrained to D4h and D8h symmetry, respectively, the RCBV(ELFπ) at the CASSCF level is lower (0.531 and 0.745) than for benzene (0.853), even though they have equal proportions of α‐ and β‐electrons.
Role of botulinum toxin in migraine therapy
Authors: Schulte‐Mattler Wilhelm J. , Leinisch Elke
Published: January 2008

Botulinum toxin effectively blocks the release of acetylcholine from motor nerve terminals. Thus, botulinum toxin injections are well established in the treatment of disorders in which patients are impaired by involuntary muscle contractions. A remarkable pain reduction was frequently observed in these patients, and in vitro studies showed that botulinum toxin reduces not only the release of acetylcholine, but also the release of neuropeptides involved in pain perception. It was therefore hypothesized that botulinum toxin may help patients with pain not caused by muscular contractions, such as migraine or chronic daily headache, which includes chronic migraine. So far, the results of randomized, double‐blind, placebo controlled trials on botulinum toxin in a total of 2,612 patients with migraine or with chronic daily headache were published. A superiority of botulinum toxin compared with placebo injections could not clearly be confirmed in any of the studies. One hypothesis derived from these results was that subgroups of patients with migraine can be defined in whom botulinum toxin may be efficacious. This hypothesis awaits confirmation. Interestingly, the efficacy of both botulinum toxin and placebo injections was found to be significant and similar to the efficacy of established oral migraine treatment. This finding may help explain the enthusiasm that followed the first open‐label use of botulinum in patients with migraine. Drug Dev Res 68:397–402, 2007. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quality of life in migraine
Authors: Anand K.S. , Sharma Sangeeta
Published: January 2008

Migraine headaches vary in severity from moderate pain with no activity limitations to severe pain and prolonged incapacitation undermining severely the quality of life. The physical, emotional, social, and economic burdens of headache are poorly acknowledged in general practice. Both moderate and severe disabling migraines have a profound impact on HRQoL. In addition to disease‐specific measures, enhancing daily functioning and well‐being are increasingly advocated goals. The evolution of the measurement of QoL in migraine has followed a progression from being discriminative, to evaluative, to predictive. HRQoL measures have not only added another dimension to migraine clinical trials endpoints but have also led to research predicting response to therapy. To measure the effect of headache and the effectiveness of therapy, instruments (generic and disease specific) have been developed that assess headache patients' perceptions of personal functioning and well‐being during or between attacks. Disease specific instruments are more sensitive in evaluating variations in patient perceptions of HRQoL during the course of disease. Most HRQoL research in migraine has been conducted in subspecialty clinics or patients participating in clinical trials which are more likely to be refractory to treatment than subjects with migraine in the community, thus not representative of patients with migraine in the community. Population‐based studies have the strength of identifying and inclusion of cases that otherwise do not come to the attention of the health care system. Migraine and depression exert a significant and independent influence on HRQoL. The qualitative studies further help to gain insight into the management of migraine from the patients' perspective, as the patients' perceptions of migraine and expectations from treatment are sometimes conflicting and thus influencing the patients' behavior. The incorporation of HRQoL measures in the treatment of patients with migraine is an increasing and valued practice by its specialists. The research on newer pharmaceuticals should focus on impact of headache on QoL, and outcomes. Such data is needed to compare prophylactic with abortive therapies or to compare outcomes among different therapeutic agents. Drug Dev Res 68:403–411, 2007. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prevention of visual stress and migraine with precision spectral filters
Authors: Wilkins Arnold , Huang Jie , Cao Yue
Published: January 2008

Individuals who suffer migraine, particularly migraine with visual aura (MwA), are susceptible to physiologically strong visual stimuli and find them aversive. Strong stimuli including bright light and certain visual patterns produce discomfort and perceptual illusions and can trigger migraine attacks. Perceptual illusions and visual discomfort are reported by most migraine sufferers and those with frequent headaches. These phenomena suggest that visual stimulation and consequent visual cortical activity contribute to the triggering of some migraine attacks. Perceptual illusions in MwA patients were found to be associated with hyper‐activation in visual cortex. This excessive cortical activity is called visual stress. The cortex is generally hypothesized to be hyperexcitable in migraine, and this hyperexcitability could be the underlying mechanism of visual stress. It is hypothesized that visual stress results from too great a neural (hyperneural) activity in response to strong physiological sensory stimulation, particularly, but not exclusively, visual. A strong physiological visual input may cause a spread of excitation through hyperexcitable cortex, leading to neurons firing inappropriately and thereby resulting in perceptual illusions and distortions, and possibly promoting a migraine attack. Over the last 10 years, the use of colored filters to treat perceptual distortion of text has become common in many schools in Britain. The efficacy of precision spectral filters (PSF) in preventing migraine headache has been reported in several studies. One preliminary study revealed the suppressing effect of the PSF on visual cortical activity in a MwA patient, suggesting that it might be this reduction in cortical activation that is responsible for the reduction of the frequency of migraine attacks in those who benefited from the PSF. PSF offer a possible new prophylactic therapy for migraine. They are safe, free of side effects, and inexpensive. Drug Dev Res 68:469–475, 2007. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lymphocyte/macrophage interactions: Biomaterial surface‐dependent cytokine, chemokine, and matrix protein production
Authors: Chang David T. , Jones Jacqueline A. , Meyerson Howard , Colton Erica , Kwon Il Keun , Matsuda Takehisa , Anderson James M.
Published: January 2008

The role of lymphocytes in the biological response to synthetic polymers is poorly understood despite the transient appearance of lymphocytes at the biomaterial implant site. To investigate cytokines, chemokines, and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins produced by lymphocytes and macrophages in response to biomaterial surfaces, human peripheral blood monocytes and lymphocytes were co‐cultured on polyethylene terephthalate (PET)‐based material surfaces displaying distinct hydrophobic, hydrophilic/neutral, hydrophilic/anionic, and hydrophilic/cationic chemistries. Antibody array screening showed the majority of detected proteins are inflammatory mediators that guide the early inflammatory phases of wound healing. Proteomic ELISA quantification and adherent cell analysis were performed after 3, 7, and 10 days of culture. IL‐2 and IFN‐γ were not detected in any co‐cultures suggesting lack of lymphocyte activation. The hydrophilic/neutral surfaces increased IL‐8 relative to the hydrophobic PET surface (p < 0.05). The hydrophilic/anionic surfaces promoted increased TNF‐α over hydrophobic and cationic surfaces and increased MIP‐1β compared to hydrophobic surfaces (p < 0.05). Since enhanced macrophage fusion was observed on hydrophilic/anionic surfaces, the production of these cytokines likely plays an important role in the fusion process. The hydrophilic/cationic surface promoted IL‐10 production and increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9/tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP) relative to hydrophilic/neutral and anionic surfaces (p < 0.05). These results suggest hydrophilic/neutral and anionic surfaces promote pro‐inflammatory responses and reduced degradation of the ECM, whereas the hydrophilic/cationic surfaces induce an anti‐inflammatory response and greater MMP‐9/TIMP with an enhanced potential for ECM breakdown. The study also underscores the usefulness of protein arrays in assessing the role of soluble mediators in the inflammatory response to biomaterials. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2008
Synthetic peptide‐coated bone mineral for enhanced osteoblastic activation in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Lee Jue‐Yeon , Choo Jung‐Eun , Park Hyun‐Jung , Park Jun‐Bum , Lee Sang‐Chul , Lee Seung‐Jin , Park Yoon‐Jeong , Chung Chong‐Pyoung
Published: January 2008

A 15‐mer synthetic peptide, designated P1, was derived from the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) receptor I and BMP receptor II binding domains of BMP‐2 for the purpose of enhancing bone regeneration capacity of inorganic bovine bone mineral. A second peptide, denoted P2, was designed by adding seven glutamic acid residues to the N‐terminal of P1 to increase the surface coating efficiency onto bone mineral. The coating efficiency of P1 increased with the concentration of peptide. P2 peptide, in contrast, had a higher coating efficiency at lower peptide concentrations. The peptides properly transduced intracellular signals properly via the Smad and ERK pathways, thereby increasing mineralization in vitro, implying that the peptides alone can induce osteoblastic differentiation. Adhesion of cells to bone mineral was greater when peptides were present than in bone mineral alone. P1‐ and P2‐coated bone mineral increased osteoblastic differentiation, as demonstrated by ALPase activity. P1‐coated bone mineral stimulated more new bone regeneration in bone defect sites after 2 weeks than the peptide‐free control. These peptides, in combination with bone grafts or implants, have the potential to enhance osteoblastic differentiation and bone regeneration. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2008
Preparation and characterization of sol–gel hydroxyapatite and its electrochemical evaluation for biomedical applications
Authors: Vijayalakshmi U. , Prabakaran K. , Rajeswari S.
Published: January 2008

Metallic materials having good mechanical properties, high corrosion resistance, and good compatibility with biological materials are used as orthopedic devices. Type 316L stainless steel is the most widely used material for implant fabrication in India for orthopedic applications owing to their good corrosion resistance, hot and cold workability, excellent mechanical properties, and availability at low cost. However, it faces corrosion‐related problems in physiological environment and thus releases toxic metal ions into the tissues surrounding the implants. Hence, hydroxyapatite (HAP) coatings over the metal implant have been developed as an alternative method to improve the surface conditions of the base metal. In the present investigation, the development of a sol–gel‐derived hydroxyapatite coating on 316L SS is being explored. The corrosion resistance behavior of the coating was assessed through electrochemical studies involving cyclic polarization experiments and impedance analysis in Ringer's solution. The results have indicated that the sol–gel‐derived HAP coatings exhibited excellent resistance to localized attack on pristine 316L SS. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2008
Noninvasive 3D vital imaging and characterization of notochordal cells of the intervertebral disc by femtosecond near‐infrared two‐photon laser scanning microscopy and spatial‐volume rendering
Authors: Guehring Thorsten , Urban Jill P. , Cui Zhanfeng , Tirlapur Uday K.
Published: January 2008

The central region of the intervertebral disc (IVD) in infant humans is made and maintained by notochordal cells (NCs). These cells disappear during maturation to be replaced by mature chondrocyte‐like cells. NCs are completely different morphologically from the mature chondrocyte‐like IVD cells and have complex and essential functions but little is known about them. Recently, two‐photon laser scanning microscopy (TPLSM) using near‐infrared (NIR) femtosecond pulsed lasers has emerged as a promising noninvasive optical technique for observing unfixed living 3D biological specimens in situ and in vitro. Several lines of evidence suggest that compared with conventional laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM), femtosecond NIR laser‐based TPLSM has any number of advantages including 3D resolution without a spatial filter (confocal pinhole), minimal photobleaching, and photodamage above and below the focal plane, and importantly, greater depth penetration. We have thus taken advantage of these unique features of femtosecond laser‐based TPLSM for vital 3D imaging in conjunction with advanced spatial‐volume rendering modalities to compare morphologies of NCs/clusters from pig caudal discs with chondrocyte‐like IVD cells from bovine caudal discs, both in ex vivo tissue and when isolated and grown in vitro within 3D alginate scaffolds. Our results provide evidence that (a) ex vivo notochordal tissue consists of areas with NC clusters, and those dominated by tubular structures of low cell density (b) within 3D in vitro scaffolds the morphology of NC is heterogeneous and the cells contain distinct cytoplasmic vacuole‐like structures occasionally including acidic subinclusions (c) a quantitative determination based on 3D spatial and volumetric‐rendering reveals an average NC diameter of 22.05 μm (range 11.96–46.63 μm) and NC volume of 9701 μm3 (2041–36427 μm3) whereas chondrocyte‐like cells have a mean volume of 3279 μm3 and diameter of 12.20 μm. Taken together, this study demonstrates that femtosecond TPLSM has unique advantages over other conventional histological and in particular LSCM for high resolution noninvasive vital characterization of notochordal and chondrocyte‐like cells of IVD over extended depths beyond 300–500 μm. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Retinal removal up‐regulates cannabinoid CB1 receptors in the chick optic tectum
Authors: Chaves Gabriela P. , Nogueira Tatiane C.A. , Britto Luiz R.G. , Bordin Silvana , Torrão Andréa S.
Published: January 2008

The endocannabinoid system has been implicated in several neurobiological processes, including neurodegeneration and neuroprotection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of unilateral retinal ablation on the expression of the cannabinoid receptor subtype 1 (CB1) at both protein and mRNA levels in the optic tectum of the adult chick brain. After different survival times postlesion (2–30 days), the chick brains were subjected to immunohistochemical, immunoblotting, and real‐time PCR procedures to evaluate CB1 expression. TUNEL and Fluoro‐Jade B were used to verify the possible occurrence of cell death, and immunostaining for the microtubule‐associated protein MAP‐2 was performed to verify possible dendritic remodeling after lesions. No cell death could be observed in the deafferented tectum, at least up to 30 days postlesion, although Fluoro‐Jade B could reveal degenerating axons and terminals. Retinal ablation seems to generate an increase of CB1 protein in the optic tectum and other retinorecipient visual areas, which paralleled an increase in MAP‐2 staining. On the other hand, CB1 mRNA levels were not changed after retinal ablation. Our results reveal that CB1 expression in visual structures of the adult chick brain may be negatively regulated by the retinal innervation. The increase of CB1 receptor expression observed after retinal removal indicates that these receptors are not presynaptic in retinal axons projecting to the tectum and suggests a role of the cannabinoid system in plasticity processes ensuing after lesions. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Redox properties of the adenoside triphosphate‐sensitive K+ channel in brain mitochondria
Authors: Fornazari Maynara , de Paula Juliana G. , Castilho Roger F. , Kowaltowski Alicia J.
Published: January 2008

Brain mitochondrial ATP‐sensitive K+ channel (mitoKATP) opening by diazoxide protects against ischemic damage and excitotoxic cell death. Here we studied the redox properties of brain mitoKATP . MitoKATP activation during excitotoxicity in cultured cerebellar granule neurons prevented the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell death. Furthermore, mitoKATP activation in isolated brain mitochondria significantly prevented H2O2 release by these organelles but did not change Ca2+ accumulation capacity. Interestingly, the activity of mitoKATP was highly dependent on redox state. The thiol reductant mercaptopropionylglycine prevented mitoKATP activity, whereas exogenous ROS activated the channel. In addition, the use of mitochondrial substrates that led to higher levels of endogenous mitochondrial ROS release closely correlated with enhanced K+ transport activity through mitoKATP . Altogether, our results indicate that brain mitoKATP is a redox‐sensitive channel that controls mitochondrial ROS release. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
QSPR Studies for Solubility Parameter by Means of Genetic Algorithm‐Based Multivariate Linear Regression and Generalized Regression Neural Network
Authors: Gharagheizi Farhad
Published: January 2008

The solubility parameters of 1228 solvents, from all the chemical groups, were predicted using Genetic Algorithm‐Based Multivariate Linear Regression (GA‐MLR) and Generalized Function Approximation Neural Network (GRNN). GA‐MLR was used to select the molecular descriptors, as inputs for GRNN. The obtained multivariate linear seven descriptors model by GA‐MLR had a correlation coefficient of $\rm{ R^2 = 0.821}$. The generated GRNN in this work has a correlation coefficient of $\rm{ R^2 = 0.98}$.
Perceptions of pregnancy complications in Haiti
Authors: Anderson Frank W.J. , Naik Sujata I. , Feresu Shingairai A. , Gebrian Bette , Karki Manju , Harlow Sioban D.
Published: January 2008

Objective

To determine the incidence of perceived pregnancy complications and associated factors.

Methods

During a census, 450 women identified themselves as pregnant and 388 were interviewed postpartum.

Results

Complications were reported by 58.6%. Bleeding post‐delivery was the most frequent complication (42.5%), followed by great pain (33.8%), bleeding during pregnancy (20.1%), and fever post‐delivery (11.6%). Prenatal care at either a dispensary or a clinic was associated with reports of bleeding during pregnancy (odds ratio [OR] 9.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.71–48.00 and OR 7.58; 95% CI, 1.53–37.48, respectively). Women who visited a doctor were less likely to report bleeding during pregnancy (OR 0.20; 95% CI, 0.08–0.55) or fever post‐delivery (P = 0.015). Herb use was associated with reported bleeding during pregnancy (OR 2.22; 95% CI, 1.12–4.40) and great pain (OR 1.94; 95% CI, 1.05–3.58).

Conclusion

The perceived pregnancy complication rate in Haiti is high and is associated with access to health care. The association between use of herbs and pregnancy complications warrants investigation.
NEGOTIATING OTTOMANISM IN TIMES OF WAR: JERUSALEM DURING WORLD WAR I THROUGH THE EYES OF A LOCAL MUSLIM RESIDENT
Authors: Jacobson Abigail
Published: January 2008

In August 1915, in the midst of World War I, a young Muslim resident of Jerusalem wrote the following in his diary:

Will I go to protect my country [waṭanī]? I am not an Ottoman, only in name, but a citizen of the world [muwaṭani al-ʿālam] . . . Had the state [dawla] treated me as part of it, it would have been worthwhile for me to give my life to it. However, since the country does not treat me in such way, it is not worthwhile for me to give my blood to the Turkish state [al-dawla al-Turkiyya]. I will happily go [to fight in Egypt?] but not as an Ottoman soldier . . .
REASSESSING EGYPTʾS DUAL SYSTEM OF EDUCATION UNDER ISMA ʿIL: GROWING ʿILMAND SHIFTING GROUND IN EGYPTʾS FIRST EDUCATIONAL JOURNAL,RAWDAT AL-MADARIS1870–77
Authors: Yousef Hoda A.
Published: January 2008

As a true litterateur of his time, Shaykh Husayn al-Marsafi composed his 1881 treatiseThe Eight Wordsas an elucidation of “the words that are constantly on the tongues of the people.” After commenting on the weighty political concepts of nation, community, government, justice, injustice, politics, and freedom, al-Marsafi ends his work with a lengthy discussion ontarbiya(education). Just months before the ʿUrabi Revolt, education occupied a vital place alongside concerns about government, authority, and politics. Marsafi's choice of “words” simply articulated a long-standing belief that roughly a decade and a half of educational reforms brought to the fore: “Oncetarbiyais made perfect, everything else is also made perfect.”
Assessment of humoral and cell-mediated immunity againstBordetella pertussisin adolescent, adult, and senior subjects in Italy
Authors: GABUTTI G. , BERGAMINI M. , BONANNI P. , GUIDO M. , FENOGLIO D. , GIAMMANCO A. , SINDONI L. , ZOTTI C. , BODDI V. , BAMFI F. , SEVERINI R. , BECHINI A. , BOCCALINI S. , CROVARI P.
Published: January 2008

Humoral and cell-mediated immunity (CMI) againstB. pertussiswas assessed in a sample of adolescent, adult and senior subjects distributed in five different geographical areas in Italy. Most (99·1%) subjects had IgG anti-pertussis toxin (PT) antibodies exceeding the minimum detection level [⩾2 ELISA units (EU)/ml]. There were no significant differences between the genders; 6·2% samples recorded titres ⩾100 EU/ml. CMI was positive [stimulation index (SI) ⩾5] against PT in 39·0% of all samples. This study suggests thatB. pertussiscontinues to circulate in age groups that have been previously considered to be uninvolved in the circulation of this pathogen and that adolescent and adult pertussis boosters may be of value in these populations. Nevertheless, over the last 10 years, large increases in vaccination coverage rates have contributed to reduce the spread of the aetiological agent, especially in the immunized population.
Temporal and longitudinal analysis of Danish Swine Salmonellosis Control Programme data: implications for surveillance
Authors: BENSCHOP J. , STEVENSON M. A. , DAHL J. , MORRIS R. S. , FRENCH N. P.
Published: January 2008

The control programme forSalmonellainfection in Danish swine has reduced the number of human cases attributable to pork consumption and the focus is now on cost-effectiveness. We applied time-series and longitudinal analyses to data collected between January 1995 and May 2005 to identify if there were predictable periods of risk that could inform sampling strategy; to investigate the potential for forecasting for early aberration detection; and to explore temporal redundancy within the sampling strategy. There was no evidence of seasonality hence no justification to change to targeted sampling at high-risk periods. The forecast of seropositivity made using an ARIMA (0, 1, 2) model had a root-mean-squared percentage error criterion of 8·4% indicating that accurate forecasts are possible. The lorelogram identified temporal redundancy at up to 10 weeks suggesting little value in sampling more frequently than this on the ‘average’ farm. These findings have practical applications for both farm-level sampling strategy and national-level aberration detection which potentially could result in a more cost-effective surveillance strategy.
Tea or coffee? A case study on evidence for dietary advice
Authors: Binns Colin W , Lee Andy H , Fraser Michelle L
Published: January 2008

The present paper explores the level of evidence required to justify giving dietary advice to the public. There are important practical differences between the development of public health nutrition guidelines and guidelines for clinical practice. While the gold standard for evidence for clinical practice guidelines is a meta-analysis of a number of randomised controlled trials, this is often unrealistic and sometimes unethical for the evaluation of public health nutrition interventions. Hence, epidemiological studies make up the bulk of evidence for nutrition guidelines. Tea and coffee are an interesting case study in relation to this issue. They are two of the most commonly consumed beverages worldwide, yet there is little dietary advice on their use. The evidence for a relationship between coffee or tea consumption and several diseases is discussed. The available studies, predominantly epidemiological, together with animal and in vitro studies, indicate that coffee and tea are both safe beverages. However, tea is the healthier option because it has a possible role in the prevention of several cancers and CVD. While the evidence for such relationships is not strong, the public will continue to drink both tea and coffee, and will continue to ask nutritionists to make recommendations. It is therefore argued that advice should be given on the best available data, as waiting for complete data to become available could have severe consequences for public health.
Assimilations- und Kontrasteffekte bei der Bewertung von Texten
Authors: Pohlmann Britta , Möller Jens
Published: January 2008

Zusammenfassung. Ausgehend vom selektiven Verfügbarkeitsmodell ( Mussweiler, 2003 ) wurden Urteilsverzerrungen bei der Bewertung von Texten untersucht. Dem Modell zufolge treten Assimilationseffekte auf, wenn der Beurteiler nach Gemeinsamkeiten zwischen zwei Beurteilungsobjekten sucht, und Kontrasteffekte, wenn er nach Unterschieden sucht. In zwei experimentellen Studien konnte die Gültigkeit des selektiven Verfügbarkeitsmodells nachgewiesen werden. N = 40 Lehramtsstudierende in Studie 1 und N = 87 Lehramtsstudierende in Studie 2 bewerteten die Qualität zweier Buchrezensionen ähnlicher, wenn sie infolge eines Primings nach Gemeinsamkeiten als wenn sie nach Unterschieden gesucht hatten. Es ergaben sich allerdings keine Hinweise darauf, dass die Stärke des Assimilations- bzw. Kontrasteffekts davon beeinflusst wird, dass die Texte von Personen gleichen bzw. ungleichen Geschlechts verfasst waren und somit aus der gleichen Kategorie bzw. ungleichen Kategorien stammen.
A mathematical model for the formation and dissociation of methane hydrates in the marine environment
Authors: Garg Sabodh K. , Pritchett John W. , Katoh Arata , Baba Kei , Fujii Tetsuya
Published: January 2008

To elucidate the geological processes associated with hydrate formation and dissociation in the marine environment under a wide range of conditions, we have developed a one‐dimensional numerical computer model (simulator). The numerical model can be used to simulate the following aspects of hydrate formation, decomposition, reformation, and distribution: (1) burial history of deep marine sediments and associated phenomena (e.g., sediment compaction and consequent reduction in sediment porosity and permeability, fluid expulsion, time evolution of temperature and pressure, heat flux), (2) in situ generation of biogenic methane from buried organic carbon and methane solubility in formation brine, (3) methane hydrate formation, decomposition, reformation, and distribution in response to changes in gas concentration, pressure, temperature and fluid salinity (the hydrate formation and decomposition are treated as equilibrium processes), (4) influence of sulfate reduction zone under the seafloor on hydrate formation, (5) possible presence of a free gas zone beneath the gas hydrate stability zone, and (6) multiphase (i.e., liquid brine with dissolved gas, free gas, gas hydrate) flow through a deformable porous matrix. The model provides for a reduction/increase in permeability due to the formation/decomposition of the gas hydrate. Initial applications of the model to study hydrate distribution at the Blake Ridge (site 997) and Hydrate Ridge (site 1249) are described. Model results are compared with chlorinity, sulfate, and hydrate distribution data.
Freshwater budget of the Canada Basin, Arctic Ocean, from salinity, δ18O, and nutrients
Authors: Yamamoto‐Kawai M. , McLaughlin F. A. , Carmack E. C. , Nishino S. , Shimada K.
Published: January 2008

The contribution of freshwater components (e.g., meteoric, sea ice, and Pacific water) in the Canada Basin is quantified using salinity, δ18O, and nutrient data collected in 2003 and 2004. The penetration depth of sea ice meltwater is limited to the upper 30 m, and brine, rejected during sea ice formation, is observed from 30 to 250 m depth. The fraction of meteoric water is high in the upper 50 m and decreases with depth. Pacific water entering via Bering Strait is the main source of freshwater below 50 m depth. Bering Strait throughflow, which transports Pacific water with salinity 32.5 together with meteoric water supplied upstream of the Bering Strait, contributes up to 75% of freshwater input (>3200 km3 a−1) to the Canada Basin. The mean residence time of Pacific water in the Canada Basin is estimated to be 11 years. Precipitation and river runoff from both North American and Eurasian continents add >800 km3 a−1 and sea ice formation removes <900 km3 a−1 (<0.6 m a−1) of fresh water. The export of ice and liquid fresh water from the Canada Basin contributes ∼40% of the freshwater flux from the Arctic Ocean to the North Atlantic Ocean.
Early diagenetic cycling, incineration, and burial of sedimentary organic carbon in the central Gulf of Papua (Papua New Guinea)
Authors: Aller Robert C. , Blair Neal E. , Brunskill Gregg J.
Published: January 2008

The clinoform complex of the Gulf of Papua represents a major deltaic system in Oceania. Two seasons largely control seafloor dynamics and sedimentary C cycling: the relatively quiescent NW monsoon, and the SE trades, characterized by remobilization and reoxidation of topset deposits. Surface sediments (∼20 cm) are reactive with ΣCO2 production fluxes ∼35–42 mmol m−2 d−1 at mangrove channel and topset sites during the monsoon, and ∼10–20 mmol m−2 d−1 on the foreset‐bottomset (>40 m). Fluxes decrease by a factor of ∼0.3 on the topset during the transition period and trades. The 13,14C isotopic compositions of pore water ΣCO2 reveal diagenetic fractionation, with dominant utilization of young (Δ14C = 1.4–31.1‰), terrestrial C substrates inshore (channels, topset δ13C = −29 to −25‰) and a progressive increase of young marine C sources seaward (outer topset, foreset; bottomset δ13C = −22.2 to −19.5). Remineralization patterns of terrestrial and marine Corg demonstrate cross‐shelf exchange. Multiple tracers show that a suboxic, mobile mud layer, ∼10–60 cm thick (usually ∼10–30 cm), characterizes the central gulf topset and Umuda Valley off the Fly River and unconformably overlies methanic deposits releasing old ΣCO2 (Δ14C = −159 to −229‰). Residual terrestrial Corg delivered to the bioturbated foreset continues to be remineralized slowly, generating ΣCO2 having net Δ14C = −270 within sediments deposited 100–200 years ago. The reactivity of Corg below ∼0.5 m in the foreset is ∼10–20 times lower than expected based on accumulation rates, reflecting loss of >50% of sedimentary Corg on the topset, which functions as a suboxic incinerator.