bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presentation of Nonfinal Results of Randomized Controlled Trials at Major Oncology Meetings
Authors: Booth Christopher M. , Le Maître Aurélie , Ding Keyue , Farn Kristen , Fralick Michael , Phillips Cameron , Cescon David W. , Meyer Ralph M.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To assess the frequency, implications, and factors associated with reporting nonfinal analyses (NFAs) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) as abstract publications.

Methods

We identified 138 consecutive reports of RCTs testing systemic therapy for lymphoma, breast, colorectal, or non–small-cell lung cancer published in six major journals between 2000 and 2004. We then searched proceedings of seven major cancer meetings, 1990 to 2004, for abstracts related to these publications which presented efficacy results. Articles and abstracts were compared for discordance in sample size, median follow-up, results, and conclusions. Abstracts were evaluated for statements explicitly noting or implying that results were not final. Factors associated with discordance were assessed by uni- and multivariate analyses.

Results

We identified 303 related abstracts; 197 were eligible. In 86 abstracts (44%), results were stated or implied to be NFA; this was explicitly stated in 41 (21%). The NFAs included 12 where accrual was ongoing. Discordance with article was found in 124 abstracts (63%) and was more common with NFAs (67 of 86 [78%] v 57 of 111 [51%]; P = .0001). When compared with articles, authors' conclusions were substantively different in 17 abstracts (10%). Factors most associated with data discordance were lymphoma trial (odds ratio [OR], 3.8; 95% CI, 1.5 to 10.8), cooperative group trial (OR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.4 to 5.6), and presentation of a NFA (OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.5 to 5.8).

Conclusion

Meeting abstracts often include NFAs and are frequently discordant with subsequent article publication.
Lung Dose-Volume Parameters and the Risk of Pneumonitis for Patients Treated With Accelerated Partial-Breast Irradiation Using Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiotherapy
Authors: Recht Abram , Ancukiewicz Marek , Alm El-Din Mohamed A. , Lu Xing-Qi , Martin Chrystalla , Berman Stuart M. , Hirsch Ariel E. , Kachnic Lisa A. , Katz Angela , MacDonald Shannon , Nedea Elena A. , Stevenson Mary Ann , Powell Simon N. , Taghian Alphonse G.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

There are no data on how complication rates after accelerated partial-breast irradiation delivered by three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy are affected by treatment technique. We therefore examined the risk of pneumonitis in relation to lung dose-volume parameters.

Patients and Methods

Our prospective dose-escalation trial enrolled 198 treated patients from 2003 to 2007. Patients received 32 or 36 Gy in 4-Gy fractions, given twice daily: 29 (14%) were treated with pure photons; 149 (77%) with mixed photons and electrons; and 20 (10%) with protons.

Results

There were four cases of pneumonitis at 4, 4, 7, and 9 months after treatment. All were in the 36-Gy cohort and were treated with pure photons. The risk of pneumonitis for the two cohorts combined was: 17% (four of 24) for an ipsilateral lung volume (ILV) receiving 20 Gy or higher (ILV, 20 Gy) of 3% or higher (P = .0002 for comparison to ILV 20 Gy < 3%, Fisher's exact test); 20% (four of 20) for an ILV 10 Gy of 10% or higher (P = .0001); and 15% (four of 26) for an ILV 5 Gy of 20% or higher (P = .0002).

Conclusion

The risk of pneumonitis appeared related to the ILV treated. This volume can be reduced by using mixed photons and electron when possible. We recommend that the ILV 20 Gy should be lower than 3%, the ILV 10 Gy lower than 10%, and the ILV 5 Gy lower than 20% when purely coplanar techniques are used.
Clinical Implications of the Colorectal Cancer Risk Associated With MUTYH Mutation
Authors: Lubbe Steven J. , Di Bernardo Maria Chiara , Chandler Ian P. , Houlston Richard S.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

Biallelic mutations in the base excision DNA repair gene MUTYH predispose to colorectal cancer (CRC). Evidence that monoallelic mutations also confer an elevated CRC risk is controversial. Precise quantification of the CRC risk and the phenotype associated with MUTYH mutations is relevant to the counseling, surveillance, and clinical management of at-risk individuals.

Methods

We analyzed a population-based series of 9,268 patients with CRC and 5,064 controls for the Y179C and G396D MUTYH mutations. We related genotypes to phenotype and calculated genotype-specific CRC risks.

Results

Overall, biallelic mutation status conferred a 28-fold increase in CRC risk (95% CI,17.66 to 44.06); this accounted for 0.3% of CRCs in the cohort. Genotype relative risks of CRC were strongly age dependent, but penetrance was incomplete at age 60 years. CRC that developed in the context of biallelic mutations were microsatellite stable. Biallelic mutation carriers were more likely to have proximal CRC (P = 4.0 × 10−4) and synchronous polyps (P = 5.7 × 10−9) than noncarriers. The performance characteristics of clinicopathologic criteria for the identification of biallelic mutations are poor. Monoallelic mutation was not associated with an increased CRC risk (odds ratio, 1.07; 95% CI, 0.87 to 1.31).

Conclusion

The high risk and the propensity for proximal disease associated with biallielic MUTYH mutation justify colonoscopic surveillance. Although mutation screening should be directed to patients with APC-negative polyposis and early-onset proximal MSS CRC in whom detection rates will be highest, the expanded phenotype associated with MUTYH mutation needs to be recognized. There is no evidence than monoallelic mutation status per se is clinically important.
Quantitative analysis of zeptomole microRNAs based on isothermal ramification amplification
Authors: Yao Bo , Li Juan , Huang Huang , Sun Changhong , Wang Zhao , Fan Yu , Chang Qing , Li Shaolu , Xi Jianzhong
Published: July 2009

To date, ∼700 microRNA (miRNA) molecules have been identified in humans. Accurate and sensitive quantification of miRNA levels will help unveil their biological functions. Here, we extend the isothermal ramification amplification (RAM) approach to a sensitive and specific real-time assay for quantitative analysis of miRNA. This RAM miRNA assay is based on the threshold cycle (CT) principle similar to that of real-time PCR. It has a dynamic range of at least seven orders of magnitude, allowing for the quantification of miRNA input from 103 to 1010 copies per reaction (10 nM to 1 fM). The capabilities of discriminating single-base mismatch and distinguishing mature miRNAs from their precursors are achieved by coupling the reverse-transcription of miRNA to the generation of a closed C-probe, rather than using expensive detection probes like in real-time PCR. Quantitative measurement of 5 miRNAs (mir-1, miR-122, mir-150, mir-143, and let-7a) across 12 mouse tissues is validated in total RNA samples without further purification. U6 snRNA, snoRNA 135, and miRNA-191 could be simultaneously quantified as endogenous controls. These results suggest that our RAM miRNA assay might provide a universal tool for miRNA detection and functional studies to meet the needs for bench examination, clinical diagnosis, and on-site detection.
The influence of sex and empathy on putting oneself in the shoes of others
Authors: Mohr Christine , Rowe Angela C. , Blanke Olaf
Published: July 2009

We tested whether putting oneself in the shoes of others is easier for women, possibly as a function of individuals' empathy levels, and whether any sex difference might be modulated by the sex of presented figures. Participants (N=100, 50 women) imagined (a) being in the spatial position of front‐facing and back‐facing female and male figures (third person perspective (3PP) task) and (b) that the figures were their own mirror reflections (first person perspective (1PP) task). After mentally taking the figure's position, individuals decided whether the indicated hand of the figure would be their own left or right hand. Contrary to our hypothesis, results from the 3PP‐task showed higher rotational costs for women than men, suggesting that mental rotation rather than social strategies had been employed. However, faster responding by women with higher empathy scores would appear to indicate that some women engaged social perspective taking strategies irrespective of the figures' position. Figures' sex was relevant to task performance as higher rotational costs were observed for male figures in the 3PP‐task for both sexes and for female figures in the 1PP‐task for women. We argue that these latter findings indicate that performance was facilitated and/or inhibited towards figures associated with specific social and emotional implications.
Concepts of kinship relations and inheritance in childhood and adolescence
Authors: Williams Joanne M. , Smith Lesley A.
Published: July 2009

This paper examines the development and consistency of children's (4, 7, 10, and 14 years) naïve concepts of inheritance using three tasks. A modified adoption task asked participants to distinguish between biological and social parentage in their predictions and explanations of the origins of different feature types (physical characteristics, disabilities, and personality traits). The causal mechanisms task asked participants to rate their preference for various mechanisms of inheritance for physical features. The family relatedness task required participants to provide judgements on the relatedness of family members and explain their understanding of kinship terms. Developmental trends were revealed in all three tasks. There was a trend towards increased consistency in judgements across tasks with age, but low correlations between explanations given in different task contexts. Findings are discussed with reference to the onset and variability of inheritance concepts and the implications for education and future research.
Comparing apples and oranges: How do patient characteristics and treatment goals vary between different forms of psychotherapy?
Authors: Philips Björn
Published: July 2009

Objectives. The aim is to investigate whether different modalities and orientations of psychotherapy diverge with regard to patient characteristics and treatment goals, in a naturalistic setting for patients with substance use disorders.

Design. All psychotherapies (N=262) during a year were surveyed at the Centre for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm County Council. Data were collected from the psychotherapists (N=38).

Methods. A therapist questionnaire was used, covering the topics of interest. Data regarding problems and goals were categorized using a qualitative clustering method. Differences between therapy formats were analysed using statistical methods.

Results. The prevalence of psychological problems among the patients was high (88%). Patients in cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and family therapy (FT) had less severe psychological problems than patients in the other psychotherapy formats. With regard to treatment goals, FT focused on improved family relations, group therapies on relational improvements, psychodynamic therapies on insight and improved functioning, while CBT focused on behaviour change and improved motivation for change.

Conclusions. These findings suggest a shortcoming of the aim of the EST movement to consider reduction of target symptom as the only relevant treatment goal and to compare the efficacy of different treatments in this regard.
Contribution of materials chemistry to the knowledge of macro-defect-free (MDF) materials
Authors: Drábik Milan
Published: July 2009

The latest studies on the reactivity of inorganic-polymeric networks in selected cement-based materials and the focus toward nano- and atomic levels of grafting of polymers on interfaces represent some of the success stories of materials chemistry. Recent developments are reviewed and discussed, with particular emphasis on macro-defect-free (MDF) materials. Experimental evidence of next-nearest-neighbor (NNN) interactions has led to the definition of the scope and model of Al(Fe)–O–P cross-linking under mechanochemical synthesis conditions, in a system combining the most common (Portland) cement and commercially available polyphosphates. Current approaches to synthesis of MDF materials, together with the atomic-level interpretations of both the formed functional interfaces and the adverse influence of moisture, are discussed.
Electrochemistry of refractory metals in molten salts: Application for the creation of new and functional materials
Authors: Kuznetsov Sergey A.
Published: July 2009

The processes of refractory metal complex electroreduction in transition from chloride to chloride–fluoride and oxofluoride melts have been studied. Decrease of the stage number of process complex electroreduction to metal and the possibility of a large number of electrons transferred in a single electrochemical stage on increasing the melt basicity has been established. It was shown that decreasing the stage number of electrode processes can be achieved by the change in anion composition (the first coordination sphere) and, in a number of cases, by the change in the cation composition (the second coordination sphere). With the melt basicity increase, a transition from reversible processes of the complex to metal discharge irreversible ones is observed, as a rule. The knowledge of electrode and chemical reactions accompanying the electroreduction of refractory metals and the study of the processes of alloy formation allow us to obtain novel niobium compounds and functional materials.
Layered silicate films with photochemically active porphyrin cations
Authors: Čeklovský Alexander , Czímerová Adriana , Lang Kamil , Bujdák Juraj
Published: July 2009

The objective of this study was to prepare and characterize hybrid films based on layered silicates with a tetracationic porphyrin dye 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(N-methylpyridinium-4-yl)porphyrin (TMPyP) intercalated in the inorganic matrix. The properties of the TMPyP cations in the materials were compared with those of other systems (solutions, colloids) characterized mainly by absorption and fluorescence spectroscopies. Linearly polarized absorption spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and fluorescence microscopy were used as well. Using appropriate layered silicate templates, applying the premodification of the inorganic component with hydrophobic alkylammonium surfactants and selecting an appropriate method, one can prepare the materials of broadly variable spectral properties of the dye. The spectral variation takes place while preserving the photochemical activity of TMPyP. The interpretations of spectral changes are based on the structural changes of the TMPyP molecules adsorbed on layered silicate surface related to the flattening of cationic pyridinium substituents.
Solid-state NMR characterization of drug-model molecules encapsulated in MCM-41 silica
Authors: Azaïs Thierry , Hartmeyer Geoffrey , Quignard Sandrine , Laurent Guillaume , Tourné-Péteilh Corine , Devoisselle Jean-Marie , Babonneau Florence
Published: July 2009

In this contribution, we present a solid-state NMR approach to characterize drug-model molecules as ibuprofen, benzoic acid and lauric acid, encapsulated in MCM-41 silica and submitted to strong confinement effects. In particular, we show that by a careful choice of the solid-state NMR sequences, it is possible to efficiently characterize these highly mobile molecules and their interactions with the pore surface. Thus, we demonstrate that 13C NMR spectroscopy is a powerful tool to characterize and even quantify entrapped and non-entrapped species by using either single-pulse excitation (SPE) or cross-polarization (CP). Whereas the standard {1H}-13C CP experiment is of poor efficiency for mobile species, we show that 13C signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio can be significantly improved through 1H-13C cross-relaxation (namely, nuclear Overhauser effect, nOe) by using a 1H power-gated technique. The long transversal relaxation times [T2(1H) up to 22 ms] observed allow the set-up of J-coupling based experiments such as 2D {1H}-13C heteronuclear multiple-quantum coherence (HMQC) in order to fully characterize the encapsulated molecules. Thus, we demonstrate that the use of sequences derived from solution-state NMR such as these two latter experiments is highly efficient to characterize highly mobile organic molecules trapped in mesopores. Finally, we show that 1H spin diffusion-based experiments can give useful informations on the proximities between trapped molecules and the silica surface.
Promoting Consumerism in West Germany During the Cold War: An Agency Perspective
Authors: Hachtmann Frauke
Published: July 2009

This historical study attempts to explore how advertising, from the perspective of the J. Walter Thompson (JWT) Agency, contributed to the development of consumerism in West Germany during the Cold War (roughly the early 1950s until the late 1980s). The article describes how West Germany rebuilt its economy and eventually developed into the largest exporting country in the world. It also illustrates how advertising as an institution contributed to a functioning consumer society and chronicles the agency's development in the U.S. and expansion to Germany. Finally, it explores the agency's insights into consumer behavior in West Germany during the Cold War.
"I'm Saying This for Uncle Sam!": How Corporations Used Images of Family to Help Fund World War II
Authors: Lee Yoon-Joo , Clark Naeemah
Published: July 2009

This essay explores how corporations used their advertising campaigns to sell war bonds during WW II. This analysis of the advertisements demonstrates that companies used these ads to maintain "human relationships" with Americans on the home front during wartime. Using war bond ads and the historical context of this time, this essay explains how the unique socio-cultural environment of war changed the meaning of bonds. For the consumer, the bonds went from being a mere financial investment into a vehicle that made citizens feel like they were doing their duty as members of the American family left at home.
To What Extent Did American Corporations Publish "Brag Ads" During World War II?
Authors: Jensen Ric , Thomas Christopher
Published: July 2009

This study focuses on the extent to which American corporations developed "brag ads" during World War II. The researchers examined eight databases that included posters and ads produced during the war. From this collection, 397 corporate-produced ads and 104 corporate-produced posters were identified. The researchers then individually identified whether each ad or poster could be classified as a "brag ad." To this, they used the typology set forth by Fox (1975) to describe boastfulness and false patriotism and the description of blue-sky advertising given by then-Senator Harry Truman. In basic terms, ads and posters were judged to be brag ads if the main intent focused more on promoting the merits of a corporation, product, or service than on encouraging patriotism or support for the war effort. The researchers then grouped the brag ads into the six categories of patriotic advertising identified by the Office of War Information (the nature of our enemies, the nature of our allies, the need to work, the need to fight, the need to sacrifice, and principles America is fighting to defend). Results show that 192 ads could be classified as brag ads, mainly in the category of the need to work. This includes praise ads (where a company publicly celebrated an award it had been presented by either the government or the military in relation to its war production efforts) as well as 126 ads that erroneously asserted a company's product as being a direct factor in helping to win the war. In contrast, the researchers identified only eight brag posters. It must be noted that this study is subjective and has many limitations. However, we hope it provides some insights into the extent of brag advertising during World War II. At the same time, we believe the study has relevance to today, especially as advertising and public relations are increasingly used to persuade about such issues as war-related efforts.
Warring Images: Fashion and the Women's Magazines 1941-1945
Authors: Scott Linda M.
Published: July 2009

This chapter from my 2005 book, Fresh Lipstick: Redressing Fashion and Feminism , was dropped for length considerations because it focused on such a short period of time (the war only lasted a little more than four years, while my book was trying to cover 150 years and still be affordable as a purchase). However, many who had read the original draft missed it when the book finally came out, including the peer reviewers. Like any book chapter, however, this one builds on arguments from previous parts of the book, while also setting up expectations for information yet to come. So, I have tried to help readers who have not read the full book along by inserting little signposts that point to evidence, arguments, and even people and campaigns that appeared elsewhere in Fresh Lipstick . Though the chapter stands well on its own, I hope these little additions will make the piece easier to understand by providing further context.
Genre, Agency, and Meaning in the Analysis of Complex Performances: The Case of a Malawian Political Rally
Authors: Gilman Lisa
Published: July 2009

Building on Mikhail Bakhtin's ideas about dialogism in complex genres and Richard Bauman's and others' scholarship on genre and intertextuality, this article offers a methodological strategy for analyzing performance. As illustrated through an analysis of a Malawian political rally, the proposed strategy highlights relationships among form, agency, and meaning to yield information about the intertangled webs of social and communicative work operating during the course of an event. The strategy thus offers insight into the processes through which meaning is produced and interpreted and the ways in which participants negotiate power relations through performance.
Folklore and the Search for Home (American Folklore Society Presidential Invited Plenary Address, October 2008)
Authors: Behar Ruth
Published: July 2009

Folklore in many ways is the search for an understanding of what home means. Folklore makes us feel at home in our identities. But what can the search for home mean in an age when the soul is global, in an age when the circle of the "we" must expand to create ever more inclusive communities? Should we cling to the folklore of all our little tribes, when building a commonwealth seems more urgent? I will address these questions both in general terms and in light of my own Cuban fieldwork experiences, where my search for home has led me to become an uneasy folklorist.
Talking Tools, Suffering Servants, and Defecating Men: The Power of Storytelling in Maithil Women's Tales
Authors: Davis Coralynn V.
Published: July 2009

What can we learn about the way that folk storytelling operates for tellers and audience members by examining the telling of stories by characters within such narratives? I examine Maithil women's folktales in which stories of women's suffering at the hands of other women are first suppressed and later overheard by men who have the power to alleviate such suffering. Maithil women are pitted against one another in their pursuit of security and resources in the context of patrilineal formations. The solidarities such women nonetheless form—in part through sharing stories and keeping each other's secrets—serve to mitigate their suffering and maintain a counter-system of ideational patterns and practices.
Representations of African American Quiltmaking: From Omission to High Art
Authors: Klassen Teri
Published: July 2009

African American quiltmaking began to gain recognition as an expressive form distinct from European American quiltmaking in the countercultural climate of the 1970s. Representations of it since then have served to update the Eurocentric, patriotic image of quiltmaking in the United States with components of multiculturalism and cultural critique. These representations in turn caused tensions along the lines of class, race, gender, and scholarly discipline. This study shows the power of words and things when used together, as in museum exhibits, to affirm or challenge the existing social order.
TextGrid: eScholarship und vernetzte AngeboteTextGrid: eScholarship in a Network of Resources
Authors: Küster Marc Wilhelm , Ludwig Christoph , Aschenbrenner Andreas
Published: July 2009

Das TextGrid-Konsortium bringt acht über ganz Deutschland verteilte Institutionen aus dem akademischen und kommerziellen Sektor zusammen, um eine modulare Plattform für verteilte und kooperative wissenschaftliche Textdatenverarbeitung zu erarbeiten. Unter Einsatz der Grid-Infrastruktur führt es verschiedene Datenstrukturen aus unterschiedlichen Projekten in einem virtuellen Korpus zusammen, das als Ganzes oder in ausgewählten Teilen analysiert und bearbeitet werden kann. Als dezidiert auf Kollaboration auch über die Grenzen von TextGrid selbst ausgerichtete Plattform verändert sie auch den Arbeitsalltag des geisteswissenschaftlichen Forschers, weg vom Bild des weitgehend isoliert arbeitenden Philologen hin zur Teamarbeit an Daten und Werkzeugen gleichermaßen. Aus Informatiksicht ist TextGrid wiederum ein Beispiel für ein komplexes, lose gekoppeltes Digitales Ökosystem mit Spielern aus vielen Disziplinen und Ländern.
Daten als Dienste: Wörterbücher als Erschließungsinstrumente in der virtuellen Arbeitsumgebung “TextGrid”Data as Services: Dictionaries as a Means of Accessing Texts in the Virtual Research Environment “TextGrid”
Authors: Büdenbender Stefan , Leuk Michael
Published: July 2009

TextGrid führt als modulare Plattform für verteilte und kooperative wissenschaftliche Textdatenverarbeitung Ressourcen unterschiedlichster Art in einer Forschungsumgebung zusammen, in der Daten und Dienste sich gegenseitig bedingen. Diese Einheit soll am Beispiel der Integration von Online-Wörterbüchern illustriert werden, wobei das besondere Augenmerk dem Wörterbuch-Linkeditor gelten wird, einem Werkzeug, das in technischer wie konzeptueller Hinsicht eine Schnittstelle zwischen beiden Komponenten darstellt.
ZUCCARO — Ein Informationssystem für die historischen WissenschaftenZUCCARO — An Information System for the Humanities
Authors: Raspe Martin , Schelbert Georg
Published: July 2009

Wie kann man Geschichte in einer Datenbank auf adäquate Weise abbilden? Wie erfasst man Informationen über historische Ereignisse und die daran beteiligten Personen, Orte und Gegenstände und erschließt sie so, dass durch das Datenmodell möglichst universelle Zugangswege eröffnet werden? ZUCCARO (ZOPE-based Universally Configurable Classes for Academic Reseach Online), ein Projekt der Bibliotheca Hertziana, des Max-Planck-Instituts für Kunstgeschichte in Rom, versucht diese Fragen zu beantworten und modellhaft vorzuführen. Angeregt durch das “CIDOC Content Reference Model”, einer Ontologie zur Erfassung historischen Kulturguts, entstand ein Datenbanksystem auf der Basis des Web Application Servers ZOPE. Das Datenmodell basiert auf drei Schichten: Den allgemeinen historischen Stammdaten wie Personen, Orte, Institutionen und Bauwerke, den spezifisch kunsthistorischen Daten (Gemälde, Skulpturen, Druckgraphiken) und der wissenschaftlichen Dokumentation (Fotografien, Quellen, Bibliographie). Alle diese Datenklassen sind miteinander verknüpft durch das “historische Ereignis”, durch das der geschichtliche Kontext hergestellt wird. Auf diese Weise werden Redundanzen vermieden und die Daten von beliebigen Standpunkten aus abfragbar gemacht. Das Projekt wird mit Open Source Software verwirklicht, die Inhalte werden Wissenschaftlern auf der ganzen Welt frei zugänglich sein.
Estimating Selection Intensity on Synonymous Codon Usage in a Nonequilibrium Population
Authors: Zeng Kai , Charlesworth Brian
Published: July 2009

Codon usage bias is the nonrandom use of synonymous codons for the same amino acid. Most population genetic models of codon usage evolution assume that the population is at mutation–selection–drift equilibrium. Natural populations, however, frequently deviate from equilibrium, often because of recent demographic changes. Here, we construct a matrix model that includes the effects of a recent change in population size on estimates of selection on preferred vs. unpreferred codons. Our results suggest that patterns of synonymous polymorphisms affecting codon usage can be quite erratic after such a change; statistical methods that fail to take demographic effects into account can then give incorrect estimates of important parameters. We propose a new method that can accurately estimate both demographic and codon usage parameters. The method also provides a simple way of testing for the effects of covariates such as gene length and level of gene expression on the intensity of selection, which we apply to a large Drosophila melanogaster polymorphism data set. Our analyses of twofold degenerate codons reveal that (i) selection acts in favor of preferred codons, (ii) there is mutational bias in favor of unpreferred codons, (iii) shorter genes and genes with higher expression levels are under stronger selection, and (iv) there is little evidence for a recent change in population size in the Zimbabwe population of D. melanogaster.
Evidence for Gene Length As a Determinant of Gene Coexpression in Protein Complexes
Authors: Chen Xiaoshu , Shi Suhua , He Xionglei
Published: July 2009

Variation of gene length imposes a challenge on genes requiring coexpression. Using a large human protein complex data set, we show that genes encoding subunits of the same protein complex tend to have similar length. The length uniformity is greater for complexes with stronger coexpression. We also show that the rate of gene length evolution is associated with gene coexpression level within a complex. These results suggest a new angle in understanding the evolution of protein complexes as well as the regulation of gene coexpression.
Wireless sensor networks: creating ‘smart infrastructure’
Authors: Hoult Neil , Bennett Peter J. , Stoianov Ivan , Fidler Paul , Maksimović Čedo , Middleton Campbell , Graham Nigel , Soga Kenichi
Published: July 2009

The deterioration of civil infrastructure is a significant issue throughout the world. To manage infrastructure in a way that ensures safe and efficient operation, managers and engineers require data about its short- and long-term performance. This paper reports on the trial installations of wireless sensor networks in a suspension bridge, slab bridge, rail tunnel and water supply pipeline. Each installation is introduced in terms of hardware, measured parameters, sensors, sampling regimes and installation and operational challenges. Preliminary results from each system are discussed to illustrate the variety of information that can be made available to managers and engineers, and how this information can be utilised and presented.
Sensory Assessment and Characterization of Odor Nuisance Emissions during the Composting of Wastewater Biosolids
Authors: Mel Suffet I. H. , Decottignies V. , Senante E. , Bruchet A.
Published: July 2009

Compost plants produce odorous compounds that can cause an “odor nuisance” to neighbors. Methods to evaluate odors exist, but they are not relevant for determining olfactory nuisance. The objectives of this study were to characterize by sensory means the odor nuisance (character and intensity) from composting plants that treat raw biosolids from wastewater plants. Research determined odor character and intensity by the “odor profile method” from raw biosolids, off‐gases from the final compost product, and air samples from compost processing. Odor nuisance categories were defined on a “compost odor wheel”. Eleven odor categories were determined from a total of 45 observed primary and secondary odor notes: (1) fishy/ammonia; (2) fragrant/fruity; (3) terpene/pine/lemon; (4) solventy/hydrocarbon; (5) grassy/woody/smoky; (6) earthy/musty/moldy; (7) rancid; (8) putrid/dead animal; (9) sweet; (10) sulfur/cabbage/garlic; and (11) fecal/sewery. The odor profile method and the compost odor wheel are suggested as a way to define odor nuisance from a compost plant.
Biodegradability and Denitrification Potential of Settleable Chemical Oxygen Demand in Domestic Wastewater
Authors: Tas Didem Okutman , Karahan Özlem , I˙nsel Güçlü , Övez Süleyman , Orhon Derin , Spanjers Henri
Published: July 2009

The effect of settling on mass balance and biodegradation characteristics of domestic wastewater and on denitrification potential was studied primarily using model calibration and evaluation of oxygen uptake rate profiles. Raw domestic wastewater was settled for a period of 30 minutes and a period of 2 hours to assess the effect of primary settling on wastewater characterization and composition. Mass balances in the system were made to evaluate the effect of primary settling on major parameters. Primary settling of the selected raw wastewater for 2 hours resulted in the removal of 32% chemical oxygen demand (COD), 9% total Kjeldahl nitrogen, 9% total phosphorus, and 47% total suspended solids. Respirometric analysis identified COD removed by settling as a new COD fraction, namely settleable slowly biodegradable COD (X SS), characterized by a hydrolysis rate of 1.0 day −1 and a hydrolysis half‐saturation coefficient of 0.08. A model simulation to test the fate and availability of suspended (X S) and settleable (X SS) COD fractions as carbon sources for denitrification showed that both particulate COD components were effectively removed aerobically at sludge ages higher than 1.5 to 2.0 days. Under anoxic conditions, the biodegradation of both COD fractions was reduced, especially below an anoxic sludge retention time of 3.0 days. Consequently, modeling results revealed that the settleable COD removed by primary settling could represent up to approximately 40% of the total denitrification potential of the system, depending on the specific configuration selected for the nitrogen removal process. This way, the results showed the significant effect of primary settling on denitrification, indicating that the settleable COD fraction could contribute an additional carbon source in systems where the denitrification potential associated with the influent becomes rate‐limiting for the denitrification efficiency.
Mathematical Modeling of Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis in an Industrial Slurry Bubble Column
Authors: Hooshyar Nasim , Fatemi Shohreh , Rahmani Mohammad
Published: July 2009

The increase in society's need for fuels and decrease in crude oil resources are important reasons to make more interest for both academic and industry in converting gas to liquids. Fischer-Tropsch synthesis is one of the most attractive methods of Gas-to-Liquids (GTL) processes and the reactor in which, this reaction occurs, is the heart of this process. This work deals with modeling of a commercial size slurry bubble column reactor by two different models, i.e. single bubble class model (SBCM) and double bubble class model (DBCM). The reactor is assumed to work in a churn-turbulent flow regime and the reaction kinetic is a Langmuir-Hinshelwood type. Cobalt-based catalyst is used for this study as it plays an important role in preparing heavy cuts and the higher yield of the liquid products. Parameter sensitivity analysis was carried out for different conditions such as catalyst concentration, superficial gas velocity, H2 over CO ratio, and column diameter. The results of the SBCM and DBCM revealed that there is no significant difference between single and double bubble class models in terms of temperature, concentration and conversion profiles in the reactor, so the simpler SBCM with less number of model parameters can be a good and reliable model of choice for analyzing the slurry bubble column reactors.
Current concepts in the anatomy and origin of pharyngeal diverticula
Authors: Skrobic O.M. , Simic A.P. , Radovanovic N.S. , Spica B.V. , Pesko P.M.
Published: July 2009

The role of this paper is to present the current concepts in anatomy and etiopathogenesis of pharyngeal diverticula. Precise anatomical considerations highly emphasizing the weak anatomic areas which predispose the pouch formation are discussed. Focus exposed in details will also be given upon the structural and functional characteristics of the upper esophageal sphincter as well as to its physiological states, architecture and dynamic functions. A brief review of hystorical and current perspectives regarding the origin of pharyngeal diverticula has also been given. Special attention is given to the abnormal cricopharyngeal function in patients with pharyngeal pouches in the terms of altered UES compliance, importance of gastroesophageal reflux and histopathologic changes of cricopharyngeal muscle.
Assessment of perioperative fluid balance
Authors: Sindjelic R. , Vlajkovic G. , Markovic D. , Bumbasirevic V.
Published: July 2009

Careful assessment of the fluid balance is required in the perioperative period since appropriate fluid therapy is essential for successful patient's outcome. Haemodynamic monitoring allows understanding the physiology of the circulation and changes of fluid balance in the perioperative period. This is diagnostic aid and guide for fluid replacement therapy. Patient's volume status is frequently assessed by different haemodynamic variables that could be targeted as the endpoints for fluid therapy and resuscitation. Fluid balance is the crucial factor in the maintenance of haemodynamic stability, tissue oxygenation and organ function. When the haemodynamic monitoring is applied in a rigorous and consistent manner, it reduces mortality and length of stay as well as costs incurred. There are a number of tests which describe the effectiveness of the invasive haemodynamic monitoring procedures usage. Since the pulmonary artery catheter (PAC) had been introduced into clinical practice it was considered as a golden standard for cardiac output measurements, haemodynamic and fluid balance assessment. Nevertheless, in previous 10 years new minimally invasive and noninvasive simple techniques for haemodynamic monitoring and patient's hydroelectricity status evaluation have been developed. They can replace PAC under different clinical circumstances and some of these techniques additionally allow a more refined perioperative fluid assessment. The aim of this article is to describe actually technique of haemodynamic measurement and assessment of fluid status and therapy in perioperative period.
It's Fournier's gangrene still dangerous?
Authors: Bilali S. , Celiku E. , Bilali V.
Published: July 2009

Background: Fournier's gangrene is known to have an impact in the morbidity and despite antibiotics and aggressive debridement, the mortality rate remains high. Objectives: To assess the morbidity and mortality in the treatment of Fournier's gangrene in our experience. Methods: The medical records of 14 patients with Fournier's gangrene who presented at the University Hospital Center 'Mother Teresa' from January 1997 to December 2006 were reviewed retrospectively to analyze the outcome and identify the risk factor and prognostic indicators of mortality. Results: Of the 14 patients, 5 died and 9 survived. Mean age was 54 years (range from 41-61): it was 53 years in the group of survivors and 62 years in deceased group. There was a significant difference in leukocyte count between patients who survived (range 4900-17000/mm3) and those died (range 20.300- 31000/mm3). Mean hospital stay was about 19 days (range 2-57 days). Conclusion: The interval from the onset of clinical symptoms to the initial surgical intervention seems to be the most important prognostic factor with a significant impact on outcome. Despite extensive therapeutic efforts, Fournier's gangrene remains a surgical emergency and early recognition with prompt radical debridement is the mainstays of management.
Transanal one-stage endorectal technique for Hirschprung's disease: A preliminary report of 24 cases from a single institution
Authors: Jovanovic D.D. , Milojkovic V.A. , Stevanovic Z.M. , Vukadin M.M.
Published: July 2009

Numerous surgical techniques for Hirschprung's disease have been developed and modified, being associated with extensive surgical procedures involving laparotomy, resection of affected segment of colon and descensus of the functional bowel to the anus. Conventional surgery was followed by complications, although the incidence of early and late postoperative complications has significantly decreased. Transanal mucosectomy was practiced as a part of conventional and laparoscopic assisted pull through procedures. The latest promising achievement is entirely transanal pull-through procedure, described by De la Tore-Mondragon and Ortega-Salgado: entirely transanal endorectal pull-through, thus avoiding both laparotomy and laparoscopy. Due to minimal invasive surgery it offers excellent results. During a five year period (2003-2008), 24 patients were operated with this technique. The recovery was uneventful in all patients. This study adds valuable information of meticulous details of the new, still developing technique with the emphasis on controversies about surgical complications reported in multicentric studies. .
Endodontic treatment of the teeth with different root canal curvatures: Two case reports
Authors: Beljic-Ivanovic Katarina , Teodorovic Nevenka , Ostojic Dejan
Published: July 2009

Endodontic treatment of the teeth with severe root canal curvatures has become one of the greatest problems in clinical practice. Recently, new instruments and techniques have been introduced in the endodontic procedure. The aim of this study was, on the basis of clinical practice, to show the possibilities of the endodontic treatment in the teeth with severely curved root canals, after dependable decision about endodontic instruments and techniques. This article presents a complete endodontic procedure in two teeth with different curvature shape of the root canal in patients that were treated at the Department of Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics, School of Dentistry, Belgrade. Coronal to apical 'crown down' technique was used for the root canal preparation with hand NiTi ProTaper instruments with progressive multicone design. The main reasons for choosing manual technique were complexity, shape of presented curvatures and better tactile sensation control of canal instruments in order to avoid possible mistakes and complications. Clinical X-rays of the teeth with permanent obturation clearly showed that extremes of the root canal morphology could be successfully solved by the right choice of all factors during endodontic procedure.
A Comparative Study of Treatment of Chronic Backache Between Conventional Method and Trigger Point Injections (TPI)
Authors: Hossain MHM Delwar , Choudhury Md Rezaul Alam , Mojumder Md Masudur Alam
Published: July 2009

Non-specific low backache of mechanical origin is common symptoms of disability in the community. There are many causes of low backache; these are mechanical and non-mechanical types. The commonest form of low backache is structural dysfunction that has direct relationship with activity. There are many regimens of treatment of low backache and trigger points injection (TPI) is one modality of them. This comparative study between TPI and conventional treatment of chronic backache was carried out at Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Bogra over a period of one year where 60 patients were treated. Out of 60 patients, 30 patients in group-I was given conventional treatment and other 30 patients in group-II were provided TPI. The mean age distribution was 42.33±5.79 years in group-I and 43.76±6.35 years in group-II, mean weight of the patients was 73.43±7.2 kg in group-I and 74.46±8.04 kg in group-II. Mean height of the patients were 165.33±9.84 cm in group-I and 166.50±9.10 cm in group-II. Mean duration of backache was 33.86 ±16.89 months in group-I and 32.10.±14.53 months in group- II and male female ratio was 18:12 in group-I and 22: 8 in group-II. In group-II TPI was provided, where their mean sessions of TPI requirement was 4.1±1.21. After treatment, their mean visual analogue scale (VAS) was 4.77±0.76 in group-I and 3.81±0.84 in group-II which is not statistically significant and duration of mean pain relief was 3.78±0.79 months in group-I and 5.65±1.21 months in group-II which is statistically significant. TPI is not a new modality of treatment of pain but it is not commonly practice in this country; which can be adopted for pain management usually without side effect. Key Words: Backache, Trigger point injection (TPI).   doi: 10.3329/jafmc.v5i1.2850 JAFMC Bangladesh. Vol 5, No 1 (June) 2009 pp.37-40
Phenotypic plasticity and integration across the canopy of Olea europaea subsp. guanchica (Oleaceae) in populations with different wind exposures
Authors: García‐Verdugo Carlos , Granado‐Yela Carlos , Manrique Esteban , Rubio de Casas Rafael , Balaguer Luis
Published: July 2009

Woody plants, as sessile and long‐lived organisms, are expected to have effective mechanisms for dealing with recurrent environmental stresses. In the present study, we hypothesized that phenotypic plasticity (the ability to express alternative phenotypes) and integration (covariation among functionally related traits) are elicited in plants under stressful wind speed conditions. We investigated the within‐crown variation of nine vegetative traits of a tree species (Olea europaea subsp. guanchica) in six populations that represented a gradient of wind speed exposures. Wind‐exposed twigs in outer‐canopy layers had smaller leaves; thinner, lighter, and shorter internodes; and a larger internode cross‐sectional area to leaf area ratio. Comparison between field and greenhouse trials revealed that field differences among populations were mediated by phenotypic plasticity. Outer‐canopy twigs expressed plastic responses in populations exposed to high wind speeds, whereas inner‐canopy twigs displayed high phenotypic convergence among populations. In addition, phenotypic integration increased with wind exposure (outer canopy > inner canopy > greenhouse) and was consequently affected by canopy openness. We conclude that exposure to wind above a certain speed threshold in this woody species elicits a plastic response that is associated with increased integration among traits and involves mechanical and hydraulic rearrangements in more exposed parts of the trees.
Elucidating the affinities and habitat of ancient, widespread Cyperaceae: Volkeria messelensis gen. et sp. nov., a fossil mapanioid sedge from the Eocene of Europe
Authors: Smith Selena Y. , Collinson Margaret E. , Simpson David A. , Rudall Paula J. , Marone Federica , Stampanoni Marco
Published: July 2009

The sedges (family Cyperaceae) are an economically and ecologically important monocot group dating back at least to the Paleocene. While modern genera are mostly unknown before the Oligocene, several extinct taxa are recognized as the earliest sedges. Their affinities have been unclear until now, because they are found as isolated, often abraded fruits or endocarps. Exceptionally preserved sedge fossils from the Middle Eocene of Messel, Germany yield more characters for identification. Fossil cyperacean infructescences with in situ pollen are recognized for the first time and show features of the early‐divergent mapanioid sedges. Pollen resembles that of tribe Hypolytreae. Comparisons with extant taxa suggest the closest affinities with Hypolytrum and Mapania. However, the Messel fossils represent a distinct taxon, Volkeria messelensis gen. et sp. nov. Without the additional characters of infructescence and pollen, the Messel fruits would have been placed in the extinct genus Caricoidea, a typical Eocene sedge that was widespread across Eurasia. Similarities of fruit structure suggest that Caricoidea was also a mapanioid sedge. Mapanioid sedges are found today in tropical wet forests and swamps, a distribution suggesting that early sedges occupied a similar habitat, unlike many modern sedges, and were not precursors to open grassland vegetation.