bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Habitat and Time Are More Important Predictors of Weed Seed Predation than Space on a Diversified Vegetable Farm in Maine, USA
Authors: Birthisel Sonja K. , Gallandt Eric R. , Jabbour Randa , Drummond Francis A.
Published: July 2015

Postdispersal weed seed predation is a significant source of weed mortality in agroecosystems. The magnitude of seed predation, however, is variable. Understanding the relative importance of factors driving variability in seed predation rates will increase the potential utility of seed predation to farmers. We conducted landscape-scale field experiments to quantify and compare the effects of space, time of sampling, and habitat on weed seed predation. Seed predation assays, with and without vertebrate exclosures, measured seed predation rates at spatially explicit sample sites across 8.5 ha of crop and noncrop habitats on a diversified organic vegetable farm in Maine. Total and invertebrate seed predation averaged 8% and 3% d−1, respectively. Vertebrate seed predators detected by motion-sensing cameras included small mammals and birds. A ground beetle,Harpalus rufipes, was highly dominant in pitfall traps, comprising 66% of invertebrate seed predators captured within crop fields. Seed predation was randomly distributed in space. However, time of sampling and habitat were highly significant predictors of seed predation. Variance partitioning indicated that habitat factors explained more variation than did time of sampling. Total seed predation was greater in crop and riparian forest habitats than in mowed grass, meadow, or softwood forest. Generally, invertebrate seed predation was greatest at sites with an intermediate degree of vegetative cover, whereas habitat type was the chief biotic determinant of vertebrate seed predation rates. These results suggest cover cropping and wetland conservation as practices that may bolster seed predation rates.
Depth of Seed Burial and Gender Influence Weed Seed Predation by Three Species of Ground Beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae)
Authors: Kulkarni Sharavari S. , Dosdall Lloyd M. , Spence John R. , Willenborg Christian J.
Published: July 2015

Ground beetles are postdispersal weed seed predators, yet their role in consuming buried seeds is not well studied. We conducted greenhouse experiments to investigate how seed burial affects consumption of weed seeds (volunteer canola) by adult ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae). Seed burial depth influenced seed consumption rates as demonstrated by a significant interaction between seed burial depth, carabid species, and gender of the carabid tested. We observed higher seed consumption by females of all species, and greater consumption of seeds scattered on the soil surface compared with seeds buried at any depth. However, there was evidence of seed consumption at all depths. Adults ofPterostichus melanarius(Illiger) andHarpalus affinis(Schrank) consumed more buried seeds than did those ofAmara littoralisMannerheim. Agricultural practices, such as tillage, bury seeds at different depths and based on the results of this study, these practices may reduce seed consumption by carabids. Soil conservation practices that reduce tillage (conservation or zero tillage) will favor greater weed seed predation due, in part, to the high availability of seeds at the soil surface or at shallow soil depths.
Weed Management in Transplanted Lettuce with Pendimethalin andS-Metolachlor
Authors: Lati Ran N. , Mou Beiquan , Rachuy John S. , Smith Richard F. , Dara Surendra K. , Daugovish Oleg , Fennimore Steven A.
Published: July 2015

Few herbicides are available for use in lettuce and hand weeding is required for commercially acceptable weed control. More effective herbicides are needed. Here field evaluations of pendimethalin andS-metolachlor for weed control in transplanted lettuce are reported. Pendimethalin was evaluated PRE at rates between 0.6 and 6.7 kg ai ha−1, and POST at 1.1 and 2.2 kg ha−1. Both pendimethalin PRE and POST applications were safe to transplanted lettuce and provided similar weed control. Pendimethalin PRE at rates of 1.1 kg ha−1and higher provided better weed control than the industry standard, pronamide at 1.3 kg ha−1.S-Metolachlor PRE was evaluated at rates between 0.6 and 5.6 kg ha−1.S-Metolachlor at rates up to 2.8 kg ha−1caused little or no crop injury or yield reduction in transplanted lettuce, andS-metolachlor at rates of 1.4 kg ha−1and higher improved weed control compared with pronamide at 1.3 kg ha−1. Pendimethalin andS-metolachlor are not labeled for transplanted lettuce, but we suggest that labeling be pursued at rates of 1.1 and 0.7 kg ha−1, respectively. Pendimethalin at 1.1 kg ha−1applied PRE or POST improved weed control by 57 and 42%, respectively compared with pronamide.S-Metolachlor PRE at 0.7 kg ha−1was less effective on weeds than pendimethalin, but maintained weed control level similar to pronamide. Pendimethalin andS-metolachlor have potential for use in transplanted lettuce production and provide alternatives to current transplanted lettuce herbicides.
Therapeutic Effects of Repurposed Therapies in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: What Is Old Is New Again
Authors: Saxena Ashish , Becker Daniel , Preeshagul Isabel , Lee Karen , Katz Elena , Levy Benjamin
Published: July 2015

The recent emergence of targeted and immunotherapeutic agents has dramatically changed the management for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Despite these advances, lung cancer is not exempt from the challenges facing oncology drug development, including the huge financial cost and the time required for drug implementation. Repositioning noncancer therapies with potential antineoplastic properties into new therapeutic niches is an alternative treatment strategy offering the possibility of saving money and time and improving outcomes. The goal of such a strategy is to deliver an effective drug with a favorable toxicity profile at a reduced cost. Preclinical models and observational data have demonstrated promising activity for many of these agents, and they are now being studied in prospective trials. We review the relevant published data regarding the therapeutic effects of metformin, statins, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, β-blockers, and itraconazole in NSCLC, with a focus on the putative mechanisms of action and clinical data. As these drugs are increasingly being tested in clinical trials, we aim to highlight the salient challenges and future strategies to optimize this approach.

Implications for Practice:

The staggering failure rates, exorbitant costs, and lengthy approval process associated with drug development in lung cancer warrants exploration of alternative strategies. The repositioning of approved noncancer medications to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) represents a unique opportunity to improve outcomes by delivering an effective drug at lower costs with manageable toxicity. Several such agents have demonstrated antineoplastic activity and are being studied in NSCLC patient populations. The present review highlights the relevant literature regarding these agents’ therapeutic effects and reports on the challenges in implementing this strategy moving forward, including a discussion of ongoing phase I, II, and III trials.
In Reply
Authors: Peled Nir
Published: July 2015

The letter stresses that the study under discussion aims to emphasize the obstacles in technology rather than provide incidence of ALK+ in the cohort. The letter also reiterates the effectiveness of immunohistochemistry screening for ALK, followed by next-generation sequencing for the borderline cases.
Calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) blended cements
Authors: Guo Xiaolu , Shi Huisheng
Published: July 2015

Fly ash from municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) was successfully used as a main raw material in sintering and preparing a calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cement clinker in the laboratory. In order to maximise the utilisation of solid waste, the focus in this study was on the suitability as supplementary cementing materials (SCMs) of MSWI fly ash, limestone powder (LI), fly ash and slag powder (SL). Compared with the hardened cement containing different types and amounts of SCMs, samples containing 20% combined admixtures had significantly improved compressive strengths, especially the sample containing 5% LI + 15% SL. In addition, the durability of the CSA blended cement-based materials was studied. When 20% combined admixtures were added, the resistance to shrinkage, carbonation and sulfate attack were improved, while the addition of combined admixtures had a negative effect on the resistance to water permeability. The results of this study contribute to the understanding of how to develop a sustainable cement industry through the maximum utilisation of solid waste.
A Conceptual Shift in Studies of Belonging and the Politics of Belonging
Authors: Youkhana Eva
Published: July 2015

The study of belonging, its underlying notions, and the politics of belonging shows that social, political, and territorial demarcations are still based on essentialist conceptions of the collective. These are often applied and reproduced in the social sciences as a result of methodological nationalism. Space-sensitive studies of migration and globalization and a return to the material have recently challenged social constructivist lines of argumentation and have provoked a conceptual shift from analytical categories with inherent spatiality, territoriality, and boundary marking to concepts based on movement and flow. In this paper the analysis of belonging and the related politics of belonging in migration studies incorporates space as an analytical category that cross-cuts established categorizations such as race, class, gender, and stage in the life cycle, and integrates a material semiotic perspective more systematically into the study of social relations at the intersection of the social categories mentioned. A new concept of belonging is defined which reflects the complex relations that individuals have with other people, circulating objects, artefacts, and changing social, political, and cultural landscapes, thus mirroring both the material conditions and the underlying power relations. Such an understanding of belonging proceeds from social naturalizations and fixations to the multiplicity and situatedness of individual attachments, which entangle social, imagined, and sensual-material relations that are constantly re-articulated and re-negotiated by actors in their day-to-day practices. In such a reading, belonging comes into being as a result of individual life stories, versatile contexts, and situated experiences and acts. In times of constant exchange through travel, mass media, and communication technologies, the conceptualization of belonging questions established sociocultural and political demarcations, indicates the compatibility of ascribed socio-cultural difference and stresses the permeability of borderlines. A space-sensitive theorization of social relations and belonging opens up new perspectives on the question of how social collectives are naturalized and by whom, and under which conditions they open up to new forms of belonging; it thus brings forth new findings about collectivization, social mobilization, and change.
Chlorhexidine Uptake and Release From Modified Titanium Surfaces and Its Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Ryu Hyo‐Sook , Kim Yoon‐Il , Lim Bum‐Soon , Lim Young‐Jun , Ahn Sug‐Joon
Published: July 2015

Background:Decontamination by adjunctive antiseptic agents such as chlorhexidine (CHX) is often recommended for the treatment of peri‐implant infections. However, its action on the titanium implant surface needs further research. This study is designed to evaluate the ability of modified titanium surfaces to release chlorhexidine after periodic CHX exposure.

Methods:Four titanium surfaces were prepared: 1) no surface treatment control (machined surface [MA]); 2) an acid mix of 10% HNO3and 5% HF (HNF); 3) resorbable blast media (RBM); and 4) sandblasting and acid etching (SLA). Each surface was analyzed using a confocal laser scanning microscope and a scanning electron microscope. Each sample was incubated with whole saliva or phosphate‐buffered saline for 2 hours. Measurements of CHX release were performed using spectrometry on days 1, 2, and 5 after 1‐minute exposure to 0.5% chlorhexidine digluconate solution during a 5‐day cycle. CHX‐releasing experiments were repeated three consecutive times for 15 days. The antimicrobial activity of CHX‐adsorbed disks was determined by a disk diffusion test usingStreptococcus gordonii.

Results:The CHX‐adsorbed titanium surfaces exhibited a short‐term release of CHX, and CHX levels dropped rapidly within 3 days. SLA and RBM with smaller and narrower depressions released more CHX than HNF and MA, specifically in the saliva‐coated group. The disk diffusion test revealed that after CHX uptake, saliva‐coated SLA and RBM showed the highest antimicrobial activity.

Conclusion:This study suggests that CHX release is significantly influenced by titanium surface modifications and that SLA and RBM might provide effective CHX uptake capacity in the saliva‐filled oral cavity.
Effect of Cone‐Beam Computed Tomography Field of View and Acquisition Frame on the Detection of Chemically Simulated Peri‐Implant Bone Loss In Vitro
Authors: Pinheiro Lucas Rodrigues , Scarfe William C. , Augusto de Oliveira Sales Marcelo , Gaia Bruno Felipe , Cortes Arthur Rodriguez Gonzalez , Cavalcanti Marcelo Gusmão
Published: July 2015

Background: The aim of this study is to determine the influence of field of view (FOV) and number of acquisition projection images (frames) on the detection of chemically simulated peri‐implant defects by cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) using an in vitro bovine rib bone model.

Methods: Eighty implants were placed in bovine ribs in which small and large bone defects were created using 70% perchloric acid. CBCT images were acquired at three acquisition protocols: protocol 1 (FOV 4 × 4 cm, 0.08‐mm voxel size, 1,009 frames [high fidelity]; protocol 2 (same as protocol 1 except 512 frames [standard]); and protocol 3 (FOV 14 × 5 cm, 0.25‐mm voxel size; high fidelity). Two oral and maxillofacial radiologists (OMRs) and two oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs) rated the presence or absence of bone defects on a five‐point scale. κ and area under the curve (AUC) were calculated and compared using analysis of variance with post hoc Tukey test at P ≤0.05.

Results: Intra‐ and interobserver agreement for OMRs ranged from moderate to good and from slight to moderate for OMSs. For the detection of small lesions, protocol 1 (AUC 0.813 ± 0.045) provided higher detection rates than protocol 2 (AUC 0.703 ± 0.02) and protocol 3 (AUC 0.773 ± 0.55) [F(2,9) = 1.6377]. For larger defects, the trends were similar, with protocol 1 (AUC 0.852 ± 0.108) providing higher detection rates than protocol 2 (AUC 0.730 ± 0.045) and protocol 3 (AUC 0.783 ± 0.058) [F(2,9) = 1.9576].

Conclusion: Within the limits of this study, optimal detection of chemically simulated pericircumferential implant crestal bone defects is achieved at the least radiation detriment using the smallest FOV, the highest number of acquisition frames, and the smallest voxel.
Biodecolorization of Reactive Yellow‐2 by Serratia sp. RN34 Isolated from Textile Wastewater
Authors: Najme Rabia , Hussain Sabir , Maqbool Zahid , Imran Muhammad , Mahmood Faisal , Manzoor Hamid , Yasmeen Tahira , Shehzad Tanvir
Published: July 2015

Remediation of colored textile wastewaters is a matter of interest. In this study, 49 bacteria were isolated from the textile wastewater and tested for their ability to decolorize reactive yellow‐2 (RY2) dye. The most efficient isolate, RN34, was identified through amplification, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis of its 16S rDNA and was designated as Serratia sp. RN34. This bacterium was also found capable of decolorizing other related reactive azo‐dyes, including reactive black‐5, reactive red‐120, and reactive orange‐16 but at varying rates. The optimum pH for decolorization of RY2 by the strain RN34 was 7.5 using yeast extract as cosubstrate under static incubation at 30 °C. The strain RN34 also showed potential to decolorize RY2 in the presence of considerable amounts of hexavalent chromium and sodium chloride. A phytotoxicity study demonstrated relatively reduced toxicity of RY2 decolorized products on Vigna radiata plant as compared to the uninoculated RY2 solution.
Ni(II) immobilization by bio-apatite materials: Appraisal of chemical, thermal and combined treatments
Authors: Sljivic-Ivanovic Marija , Milenkovic Aleksandra , Jovic Mihajlo , Dimovic Slavko , Mrakovic Ana , Smiciklas Ivana
Published: July 2015

Animal bones are natural and rich source of calcium hydroxyapatite (HAP),
which was found to be a good sorbent material for heavy metals and
radionuclides. Various treatments can reduce the content of bone organic
phase and improve sorption properties. In this study, sorption capacities of
raw bovine bones (B) and samples obtained by chemical treatment with NaOH
(BNaOH), by heating at 400 oC (B400) and by combined chemical and thermal
treatment (BNaOH+400), were compared, using Ni(II) ions as sorbates. Maximum
sorption capacities increased in the order B<BNaOH<B400<BNaOH+400. Based on
different sorption data and FT-IR analyses, the mechanism of Ni(II) sorption
was found to be complex, with participation of both HAP and organic phase
(when present). Sequential extraction analysis was applied for testing the
stability of Ni(II) ions sorbed by BNaOH+400. Majority of Ni(II) was found in
residual phase (65%) at lower level of sorbent loading, while with the
increase of sorbent saturation carbonate fraction became dominant (39 %).
According to the results, BNaOH+400 can be utilized in water purification
systems. As an apatite based material with low organic content and high
efficiency for Ni(II) sorption, it is also a good candidate for in-situ soil
remediation, particularly at lower contamination levels.
Secondary-school chemistry textbooks in the 19th century
Authors: Milanovic Vesna , Trivic Dragica , Tomasevic Biljana
Published: July 2015

The teaching of chemistry in Serbia as a separate subject dates from 1874.
The first secondary-school chemistry textbooks appeared in the second half of
the 19th century. The aim of this paper is to gain insight, by analysing two
secondary-school chemistry textbooks, written by Sima Lozanic (1895) and Mita
Petrovic (1892), into what amount of scientific knowledge from the sphere of
chemistry was presented to secondary school students in Serbia in the second
half of the 19th century, and what principles textbooks written at the time
were based on. Within the framework of the research conducted, we defined the
criteria for assessing the quality of secondary-school chemistry textbooks in
the context of the time they were written in. The most important difference
between the two textbooks under analysis that we found pertained to the way
in which their contents were organized. Sima Lozanic?s textbook is
characterized by a greater degree of systematicness when it comes to the
manner of presenting its contents and consistency of approach throughout the
book. In both textbooks one can perceive the authors? attempts to link
chemistry-related subjects to everyday life, and to point out the practical
significance of various substances, as well as their toxicness.
Hollow-fiber micro-extraction combined with HPLC for the determination of sitagliptin in urine samples
Authors: Rezaee Raheme , Qomi Mahnaz , Piroozi Foroozan
Published: July 2015

This study successfully developed a three-phase hollow-fiber liquid phase
micro extraction coupled with high performance liquid chromatography for
determination of trace levels of an anti-diabetic drug, sitagliptin (STG),
in urine samples. Sitagliptin was extracted from 15 mL of the basic sample
solution with a pH of 8.5 into an organic extracting solvent (n-octanol)
impregnated in the pores of a hollow fiber and then back extracted into an
acidified aqueous solution in the lumen of the hollow fiber with a pH of 3.
After extraction, 20 ?L of the acceptor phase was injected into HPLC. In
order to obtain high extraction efficiency, the parameters affecting the
HF-LPME including pH of the source and receiving phases, type of organic
phase, ionic strength, stirring rate, extraction time, the volume ratio of
donor phase to acceptor phase and temperature were studied and optimized.
Under the optimized conditions, enrichment factors up to 88 were achieved
and the relative standard deviation of the method was in the range of 3 % to
6%. The results indicated that HF-LPME method has an excellent clean-up
capacity and a high preconcentration factor and can serve as a simple and
sensitive method for monitoring the drug in the urine samples.
Testing Strategy with Multiple Performance Measures: Evidence from a Balanced Scorecard at Store24
Authors: Campbell Dennis , Datar Srikant M. , Kulp Susan L. , Narayanan V. G.
Published: July 2015

This study investigates the idea that business strategies can be tested and validated based on statistical analysis of a firm's internal performance measures. The strategy literature describes business strategies using the concepts of formulation, implementation, and fit. The management accounting literature links these strategy concepts with the selection and use of performance measures. Building on these two streams we examine whether and how a multidimensional performance measurement system can be used to distinguish between strategic problems related to strategic inputs, customer-oriented strategic outputs, and financial performance. We use data from the performance measurement system of a field site that formulated, implemented, and subsequently abandoned an innovative operating strategy. Managers learned the strategy was ineffective over a two-year period. We find that the company's internal performance measures systematically reveal more timely information about problems with the strategy. Furthermore, the performance measures can help identify where and why the strategy failed. The results are consistent with strategy inputs leading to positive customer experiences but poor financial performance because of a poor fit between the strategy and the firm's internal capabilities and skills. These results provide evidence that strategically linked firm-specific performance measures can be used (1) to evaluate strategy on a timely basis, and (2) to distinguish between problems, such as strategy formulation, implementation, and fit, that cause strategies to fail.
Cross-sectional and Longitudinal Associations Between Objectively Measured Sedentary Time and Metabolic Disease: The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study
Authors: Barone Gibbs Bethany , Pettee Gabriel Kelley , Reis Jared P. , Jakicic John M. , Carnethon Mercedes R. , Sternfeld Barbara
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVE

Prolonged sedentary time (ST) might be contributing to the diabetes epidemic, but most studies have been cross-sectional and few have objectively measured ST. The purpose of this study was to evaluate cross-sectional and 5-year longitudinal relationships between ST and metabolic parameters and outcomes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was an analysis of 2,027 Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study participants (aged 38–50 years, 57% female, and mean BMI of 29.0 ± 7.0 kg/m2) with accelerometry data (≥4 days with ≥10 h/day) measured at the year 20 follow-up exam (2005–2006). Metabolic variables (fasting glucose, fasting insulin, 2-h postchallenge glucose, HOMA of insulin resistance [HOMA-IR], and HbA1c) and outcomes (impaired fasting glucose [IFG], impaired glucose tolerance [IGT], prediabetes by HbA1c, and diabetes) were assessed concurrently and 5 years later.

RESULTS

Average ST was 8.1 ± 1.7 h/day or 55 ± 10% of wear time. Each additional hour per day of ST was cross-sectionally associated with a 3% higher fasting insulin and HOMA-IR (both P < 0.01) but not 5-year changes in metabolic parameters. Having ≥10 h/day vs. <6 h/day of ST was associated with an odds ratio (OR) = 2.74 (95% CI 1.13, 6.62) for IGT and an OR = 3.80 (95% CI 1.39, 10.35) for diabetes. ST was not associated with prevalent IFG, prevalent prediabetes by HbA1c, or 5-year incidence of any metabolic outcomes (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

ST was independently related to insulin, HOMA-IR, and prevalent diabetes and IGT but did not predict 5-year changes in metabolic parameters or incidence of metabolic outcomes. These results suggest that higher ST may not be a risk factor for future metabolic outcomes, but more research with repeated ST measurement and longer follow-up is needed.
Endoscopic Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak Closure in an Infected Field
Authors: Hsu Amy K. , Singh Ameet , Bury Sean , Schwartz Theodore H. , Anand Vijay K. , Kacker Ashutosh
Published: July 2015

Background

Sinonasal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks during an active infection present the unique challenge of preventing spread of infection without compromising the integrity of the closure. We describe the technique and clinical course of patients undergoing endoscopic CSF leak repair in an actively infected field.

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of endoscopic CSF leak repair in an actively infected field.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of patients with sinonasal CSF leaks that were endoscopically repaired during an acute infection.

Results

Nine patients were identified. Etiologies of CSF leak were iatrogenic after endoscopic sinus surgery (n = 5, 55.6%) or revision craniopharyngioma resection (n = 1, 11.1%), spontaneous (n = 1, 11.1%), anterior skull base meningocele with CSF leak (n = 1, 11.1%), and posttraumatic (n = 1, 11.1%). The locations of the leaks were ethmoid in five patients, frontoethmoid in three patients, and sphenoid in three patients. Seven patients had acute sinusitis (77.8%) and two patients had meningitis (22.2%) at the time of closure. Two patients (22.2%) had failure of previous CSF leak closure. All leaks were repaired in a multilayered fashion with multiple graft types, including septal or conchal cartilage, temporalis fascia, fascia lata, fat, Medpor, and tissue sealant. Three patients additionally had mucosal flaps or grafts. The patients were treated with an average of 11.1 days (range, 6-14 days) of antibiotics. The average hospital stay was 4.1 days (range, 2-7 days), and the mean follow-up time was 8.7 months (range, 2.9-19.3 months). No patients experienced recurrence of CSF leak or postoperative complication or infection.

Conclusion

Endoscopic closure of skull base defects was successfully performed in nine patients during acute infections without complications, recurrent infection, or need for revision CSF leak closure. Endoscopic CSF leak repair appears to be safe and effective in patients with active infection with sinusitis or meningitis.
Bony Erosion Patterns in Patients with Allergic Fungal Sinusitis
Authors: White Lauren C. , Jang David W. , Yelvertan Joshua C. , Kountakis Stilianos E.
Published: July 2015

Objective

To investigate bony erosion patterns in allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS) and to determine whether the extent of erosion correlates with demographics and preoperative clinical parameters.

Study Design

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

Methods

Seventy-four patients with a histopathologic diagnosis of AFS were identified. Preoperative computed tomographies (CT) were reviewed to determine sites with bony erosion. The 20-item Sinonasal Outcomes Test (SNOT-20) scores, endoscopy scores, and Lund-Mackay CT scores were compared between patients with and without bony erosion. Patients with bony erosion were further classified based on the extent of erosion. Statistical analysis was performed by using the Student's t-test and the χ2 test of independence.

Results

Of the 74 patients, 39 (52.7%) had bony erosion and 35 (47.3%) did not. Bony erosion was found to be associated with younger age (27.5 versus 36.0 years; p = 0.011) and African American race (p = 0.041). Preoperative CT scores correlated with the presence and extent of bony erosion (p = 0.010). Sex, race, number of previous surgeries, SNOT-20 scores, and endoscopy scores did not correlate significantly.

Conclusion

Younger age and African American race were found to significantly correlate with bony erosion in AFS, which indicated that a more severe inflammatory response was mounted in these patient groups. As expected, higher Lund-Mackay scores correlated with the severity of erosion. The lack of correlation with SNOT-20 scores indicated the insidious nature of this destructive disease. The level of evidence is 4.
Cytokine Modulation by IL-35 in Mice with Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Yokota Makoto , Suzuki Motohiko , Nakamura Yoshihisa , Ozaki Shinya , Murakami Shingo
Published: July 2015

Background

Interleukin (IL) 35 was recently identified as an additional anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive cytokine. However, the role of IL-35 in allergic rhinitis is not well understood. The effect of IL-35 on other cytokines in allergic responses is also unclear.

Objective

To investigate, in mice with allergic rhinitis, the effect of IL-35 on other cytokines associated with allergic rhinitis.

Methods

A murine model of allergic rhinitis was established, and splenic cells were collected. Ovalbumin-specific allergic T-cell response was measured. The production of cytokines (T helper 1 interferon-gamma), Th2 (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13), Th17 (IL-17), IL-12 family (IL-12, IL-23, IL-27), IL-2, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, transforming growth factor-beta, and IL-10) stimulated with antigen was also measured in the presence or absence of IL-35.

Results

IL-35 significantly inhibited the ovalbumin-specific T-cell response. It also significantly reduced the production of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-17, IL-23, and TNF-alpha, and significantly increased the production of IL-2, IL-10, and IL-27.

Conclusion

This study showed that IL-35 inhibits allergic T-cell response and has the ability to modulate the production of IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13, IL-17, IL-23, IL-27, and TNF-alpha in mice with allergic rhinitis. This study also indicated the possibility of a novel therapy with IL-35 for the control of allergic rhinitis.
Identification of the Cold Receptor TRPM8 in the Nasal Mucosa
Authors: Liu Shao-Cheng , Lu Hsuan-Hsuan , Cheng Li-Hsiang , Chu Yueng-Hsiang , Lee Fei-Peng , Wu Chi-Chung , Wang Hsing-Won
Published: July 2015

Background

The transient receptor potential channel melastatin 8 (TRPM8) has been proposed to be a cold receptor. However, its distribution and physiologic role in the nose is not yet fully explored.

Objective

We investigated the expression of TRPM8 in human nasal mucosa and its function when using the TRPM8 agonist.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was used to study TRPM8 receptors in the nasal mucosa from patients with and those without allergic rhinitis (AR). By using isometric contraction studies, we also tested the effectiveness of the TRPM8 agonist menthol on nasal mucosa. Changes in nasal mucosal contractility in response to the application of the adrenergic agent methoxamine were also measured. We explored the effect of menthol on electrical field stimulation (EFS) induced nasal mucosal contractions.

Results

TRPM8 immunoreactivity was present principally in the nasal cilia, epithelium, and subepithelium around the glands. Except for nerve fibers, no obvious TRPM8-immunoreactive cells were detected in connective tissues. The immunoreactivity revealed no significant difference between patients with AR and those without AR. Adding menthol had a negligible effect on the basal tension of the nasal mucosa, but higher doses of menthol had a significant spasmolytic effect on nasal mucosa precontracted with methoxamine. Menthol inhibited the spike contraction induced by EFS, even at low doses.

Conclusions

The finding of the TRPM8 immunoreactivity underlines the important physiologic role of the nose in temperature regulation, both in patients with allergy and those without allergy. Isometric contraction studies demonstrate the role of TRPM8 in regulating nasal patency and airway resistance. The antiadrenergic effect of menthol showed an effect apparently opposite that of clinical observations, that we usually feel decongested after menthol inhalation. The underlying mechanisms deserve further investigation, and the TRPM8 antagonists deserve consideration for treatment of rhinitis in a therapeutic trial.
The Development and Psychometric Properties of the Patient Self-Report Neck Functional Status Questionnaire (NFSQ)
Authors: Wang Ying-Chih , Cook Karon F. , Deutscher Daniel , Werneke Mark W. , Hayes Deanna , Mioduski Jerome E.
Published: July 2015

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of cross-sectional data.

Objective

To describe the development of a new self-report Neck Functional Status Questionnaire (NFSQ) and to assess its psychometric properties and practical application. The NFSQ was designed to assess functional status in patients with cervical (spine) disorders who seek outpatient therapy.

Background

Many patients seek outpatient therapy due to cervical disorders. Currently, no patient-reported outcome measures exist that capture the ability to perform functional activity in a manner that reflects the experience of this patient population.

Methods

Four hundred thirty-nine patients who were being treated for cervical disorders responded to a set of survey questions to assess activity-related functional outcomes associated with cervical disorders. Using item response theory, we assessed candidate items for unidimensionality and local independence, item fit, person separation, precision, targeting, and differential item functioning. We also compared discriminant validity of functional status measures estimated by the item response theory model (NFSQ fixed) and measures generated using a simulated computerized adaptive test (NFSQ computerized adaptive test).

Results

Based on expert opinion and subsequent processing and analyses, a final set of 28 items was used to develop the NFSQ. Unidimensionality and local independence were supported. The mean ± SD sample ability level of 57.6 ± 14.3 (scale range, 0–100) matched well with the mean item difficulty of the NFSQ of 51.3 ± 7.4. Differential item functioning was negligible for levels of age group, sex, and symptom acuity. The NFSQ computerized adaptive test measures were as precise as the NFSQ fixed measures.

Conclusion

Study results supported the preliminary validity of the 28-item NFSQ for use in assessing patients with different levels of functional status related to their cervical disorders in outpatient rehabilitation settings. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(9):683–692. Epub 9 Jul 2015. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.5640
Gait Retraining for Injured and Healthy Runners Using Augmented Feedback: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Agresta Cristine , Brown Allison
Published: July 2015

Study Design

Systematic literature review.

Objectives

This review sought to determine the efficacy of real-time visual and/or auditory feedback for modifying kinematics and kinetics during running gait.

Background

Real-time visual and auditory feedback has gained popularity in the clinical and research settings. Rehabilitation time and injury prevention may be improved when clinicians are able to modify running mechanics in a patient population.

Methods

A thorough search of PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science from 1989 to January 2015 was performed. The search sought articles that examined real-time visual or auditory feedback for the purposes of modifying kinematics or kinetics in injured or healthy runners. Study design and methodological quality were rated using a 20-point scale.

Results

Ten studies were identified for inclusion in the review, 2 of high and 8 of moderate methodological quality. There was a consensus in the literature that the use of real-time feedback is effective in reducing variables related to ground reaction forces, as well as in positively modifying previously identified risky lower extremity kinematic movement patterns in healthy runners and those with patellofemoral pain and chronic exertional compartment syndrome. No one method of feedback was identified as being superior. Mirror and 2-dimensional video feedback were identified as potential methods for running-gait modification in a clinical setting.

Conclusion

In conjunction with traditional therapeutic interventions, real-time auditory and visual feedback should be considered for treating injured runners or addressing potentially injurious running mechanics in a healthy population. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(8):576–584. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.5823
The Effect of High School Shootings on Schools and Student Performance
Authors: Beland Louis-Philippe , Kim Dongwoo
Published: July 2015

We analyze how fatal shootings in high schools affect schools and students using data from shooting databases, school report cards, and the Common Core of Data. We examine schools’ test scores, enrollment, number of teachers, graduation, attendance, and suspension rates at schools that experienced a shooting, employing a difference-in-differences strategy that uses other high schools in the same district as the comparison group. Our findings suggest that homicidal shootings significantly decrease the enrollment of students in Grade 9 and test scores in math and English standardized tests. Using student-level data from California, we confirm that shootings lower test results for students who remain enrolled.
Erhaltung der Landwirtschaftsflächen bedingt Priorisierung der Leistungen (Essay)
Authors: Huber Robert , Flury Christian , Weber Michael , Pezzatti Marco
Published: July 2015

Protection of agricultural land needs prioritization of goods and services (essay)

In Switzerland, productive agricultural land is scarce. Settlement development, forest encroachment and the expansion of natural habitats reduce the availability of agricultural surfaces and thus agriculture's potential to contribute to domestic food security. In addition, rural infrastructure developments as well as production immissions such as odor and noise increase land-use conflicts. To address these conflicts, society's demand for agricultural goods and services and the requirements of a productive agricultural sector must be reconciled by defining spatial areas in which goods and services provided by a multifunctional agriculture are prioritized. As shown by the example of the canton Zurich, such a spatial prioritization of agricultural goods and services allows for a consideration of synergies and trade-offs in actual planning processes to effectively protect agricultural surfaces.
Urban Forestry: Definition, Trends und Folgerungen für die Waldakteure in der Schweiz
Authors: Pütz Marco , Schmid Silvio , Bernasconi Andreas , Wolf Brigitte
Published: July 2015

Urban Forestry: definitions, trends and consequences for forest stakeholders in Switzerland

Since the mid-1990s the term “urban forestry” is used as an umbrella term for different activities in research and practice dealing with trees, forest and green space in cities and agglomerations. Though, urban forestry means more than just city forestry or forestry in urban areas. On the occasion of the 17th International Conference of the European Forum on Urban Forestry (EFUF) in Lausanne from June 3–7, 2014, challenges and trends of the debates around green cities and urban nature have been discussed. This article gives an overview over the debate and pursues three goals: 1) the term urban forestry is defined and conceptualized from different perspectives; 2) current trends and challenges as discussed at the EFUF conference are sketched out; 3) correspondingly, consequences for forest stakeholders in Switzerland are deduced. Forests in urban areas can not be managed with traditional forestry concepts only. An important precondition to successfully deal with the current challenges is intersectoral and interdisciplinary cooperation. Five fields of action are focused on: urban green strategies, management partnerships, crosssectoral monitoring, integrative research, training and education, and interdisciplinary networks to share experiences and transfer knowledge.
Quarante ans de suivi de l'avifaune forestière nicheuse d'un chablis
Authors: Zollinger Jean-Luc
Published: July 2015

Forty years of monitoring the breeding-bird community in a windfall area

After a hurricane, a secondary forest succession was studied during forty years (1974–2013) in a windfall area in the Canton of Vaud on the Swiss Plateau, from the sapling stage to the young forest stage, where a mixed stand with 77% conifers (four species) and 23% deciduous trees (two species) has grown. The breeding birds were surveyed on a 9.2 ha study plot during 21 breeding seasons using the territory-mapping method. Overall, 41 breeding species were recorded. Species richness varied from 12 to 25 species and population density from 35.9 to 98.4 territories/10 ha, both parameters showing a bimodal curve: first peak with the installation of semiopen habitat species, second peak with the arrival of pure forest species. The bird community is dominated by a group of seven rather generalist species, which are frequent and abundant. Bird diversity during the succession was positively influenced by the following forestry practices: leaving stumps, a small number of snags and patches of old stands, planting tree species in groups and limiting forestry management in the first five years. On the Swiss Plateau, open-spaced deciduous or mixed forests (≤50% conifers) with a diverse age structure should be favoured.
Medicinal plants with gastroprotective potential
Authors: Majeed Wafa , Khaliq Tanweer , Aslam Bilal , Khan Junaid Ali , Iftikhar Asra
Published: July 2015

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a main source of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is characterized by erosions in mucosal linings of stomach and duodenum. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and Helicobacter pylori are mainly responsible for peptic ulcer disease. Histamine receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors are most prominent therapies in the treatment of peptic ulcer. However, severe adverse effects of NSAIDs have been reported. Therefore, focus is now diverted towards herbal formulations of medicinal plants for the treatment of ulcer. Plants contain different phytoconstituents which are responsible for increasing defensive mechanisms of body against peptic ulcer. The current review focuses on the commonly used gastroprotective plants as antiulcer agents.

 
Genetic Transformation of Plumbago zeylanica with Agrobacterium rhizogenes Strain LBA 9402 and Characterization of Transformed Root Lines
Authors: Basu Amrita , Joshi Raj Kumar , Jha Sumita
Published: July 2015

High frequency transformation (73.80 ± 2.24%) has been obtained in Plumbago zeylanica using nodes and internodes of axenic whole plants infected with Agrobacterium rhizogenes strain LBA 9402. The root lines could be distinguished morphologically into two types : Root lines of morphotypes I and II. While morphotype I showed profuse branching with short (< 1 cm), highly dense hairy laterals, the roots of morphotype II roots were characterized also by profuse branching with long hairy laterals (> 3 ? 4 cm). Only four of the ten root lines showed integration of four rol genes (rolA, rolB, rolC and rolD) of TL?DNA. None of the root lines showed presence of any of the five genes of TR?DNA. It is noteworthy that the root morphotypes (I and II) showed a clear distinction in the nature of integration and expression of rol genes. The transformed root lines varied significantly (p ? 0.05) with respect to DW (GI DW basis, 2.19 ± 0.24 ? 5.31 ± 0.6) after 4 weeks of culture on solid modified MS; and plumbagin contents in root lines (4.81 ± 0.16 ? 6.69 ± 0.34 mg/g DW) were higher than that reported earlier. Transformed root lines of P. zeylanica maintained in vitro on phytohormone devoid medium for over 2 years can be used for scale up studies for the production of plumbagin in bioreactors.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 25(1): 21-35, 2015 (June)
Effect of Silver Nitrate and Amino Acids on High Frequency Plants Regeneration in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Haque Mozidul , Siddique Abu Baker , Islam SM Shahinul
Published: July 2015

Three Bangladeshi barley genotypes viz. BARI barley?1, 3 and 6 were selected for this study to evaluate the efficiency of callus induction and plant regeneration. The effect of five doses of AgNO3 singly, and combined with amino acids (Lproline, L?glutamine) on callus induction and plant regeneration efficiency was evaluated using BARI barley?3 and 6. The maximum values of callus induction were recorded at 49.20 and 32.66% for BARI barley?6 and 3, respectively when 2.0 mg/l AgNO3 and 200 mg/l L?glutamine were added to the callus induction medium. Moreover, plant regeneration remarkably increased on MS + 1.0 mg/l BAP + 1.5 mg/l AgNO3 + 150 mg/l L?glutamine as 37.20% in BARI barley?6 and 16.13% in BARI barley?3. For rooting AgNO3 singly affect positively, whereas negative influence was observed in combinations with any amino acids. However, by using AgNO3 and amino acids, around < 4, < 27 and < 5 fold increase in callus induction were obtained. Regeneration and rooting were also found to increase considerably.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 25(1): 37-50, 2015 (June)
Effect of Sugar Types, Culture Age, Concentrations of 2,4?D and Sucrose on Somatic Embryogenesis of Cymbopogon schoenanthus subsp. proximus
Authors: Salam Asmaa M Abdel , Chowdhury Kamal , El Bakry Ahmed A
Published: July 2015

The effect of sugar types, age of culture, and concentrations of 2,4?D and sucrose on somatic embryogenesis was investigated in Cymbopogon schoenanthus subsp. proximus. Six different sugar types: sucrose, fructose, maltose, glucose, galactose and lactose at 3% concentration were used for each of three 2,4?D concentration treatments (1.0, 2.0, 4.0 mg/l). ANOVA showed a significant difference at the 1% level for culture age, sugar types and interactions between 2,4?D and sugar types when mean embryo numbers of individual sugars across the four culture ages are compared. Maltose gave highest mean value, followed by sucrose and the lowest mean number was recorded with galactose. Cultures induced by galactose although low in embryo induction gave the highest mean number of shoots across the different media and culture age. Effect of different concentrations of sucrose and BA on production of number of immature somatic embryos, mature germinating somatic embryos and shoots was examined by culturing 2.5 month?old seed?derived callus onto MS medium containing 4 different sucrose concentrations (1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 %) in combination with different BA concentrations (0.0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.1 mg/l). ANOVA showed significant differences at 1% level for culture age, and interactions between culture age and sucrose concentrations. Mean number of shoots on 1% sucrose for 7 months old culture was 9.4 significantly higher than number produced on all of sucrose concentrations. The efficient regeneration system will be useful for the future production of high yielding genotypes and for the conservation of the species germplasm.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 25(1): 51-62, 2015 (June)
Application of Biotechnology in Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.): Sri Lanka
Authors: Wijerathna YMAM
Published: July 2015

With the growing of world population and industrialization there is rising demand for coconut?based health and beauty products. The producers might not be able to keep up this demand with the law production of coconut due to the land area under cultivation has declined from around 444,000 hectares to about 394, 840 hectares between 2000 and 2012 and the aging trees in coconut trees. So there is an urgent need for shifting to investigate how the use of recently developed biotechnological techniques can benefit the coconut industry. Here the describes recent utilization of (a) molecular markers, diversity and genetic improvements, (b) molecular detection and diagnosis of diseases; and (c) in vitro propagation in Sri Lanka and the future potential of biotechnology on the coconut industry.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 25(1): 103-116, 2015 (June)