bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence of recent natural selection on the Southeast Asian deletion (--SEA) causing α-thalassemia in South China
Authors: Qiu Qin-Wei , Wu Dong-Dong , Yu Li-Hua , Yan Ti-Zhen , Zhang Wen , Li Zhe-Tao , Liu Yan-Hui , Zhang Ya-Ping , Xu Xiang-Min
Published: March 2013

Background

The Southeast Asian deletion (--SEA) is the most commonly observed mutation among diverse α-thalassemia alleles in Southeast Asia and South China. It is generally argued that mutation --SEA, like other variants causing hemoglobin disorders, is associated with protection against malaria that is endemic in these regions. However, little evidence has been provided to support this claim.

Results

We first examined the genetic imprint of recent positive selection on the --SEA allele and flanking sequences in the human α-globin cluster, covering a genomic region spanning ~410 kb, by genotyping 28 SNPs in a Chinese population consisting of 76 --SEA heterozygotes and 138 normal individuals. The pattern of linkage disequilibrium (LD) and the long-range haplotype test revealed a signature of positive selection. The network of inferred haplotypes suggested a single origin of the --SEA allele.

Conclusions

Thus, our data support the hypothesis that the --SEA allele has been subjected to recent balancing selection, triggered by malaria.
Passive immunization with Pneumovax®23 and pneumolysin in combination with vancomycin for pneumococcal endophthalmitis
Authors: Sanders Melissa E , Taylor Sidney , Tullos Nathan , Norcross Erin W , Moore Quincy C , Thompson Hilary , King Lauren B , Marquart Mary E
Published: March 2013

Background

Capsule and pneumolysin (PLY) are two major virulence factors ofStreptococcus pneumoniae.S. pneumoniaeis one of the leading causes of bacterial endophthalmitis. The aim of this study is to determine whether passive immunization with the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (Pneumovax®23; PPSV23) or PLY protects against pneumococcal endophthalmitis.

Methods

New Zealand white rabbits were passively immunized with antiserum to PLY, PPSV23, a mixture of PPSV23/PLY, or PBS (mock). Vitreous was infected with a clinical strain ofS. pneumoniae. In a separate group of experiments, vancomycin was injected 4 hours post-infection (PI) for each passively immunized group. Severity of infection, bacterial recovery, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and percent loss of retinal function were determined.

Results

Passive immunization with each antiserum significantly lowered clinical severity compared to mock immunization (PPSV23 = 9.19, PPSV23/PLY = 10.45, PLY = 8.71, Mock = 16.83; P = 0.0467). A significantly higher bacterial load was recovered from the vitreous of PLY passively immunized rabbits 24 hours PI (7.87 log10CFU) compared to controls (7.10 log10CFU; P = 0.0134). Retinas from immunized rabbits were more intact. Vitreous of PLY (2.88 MPO untis/mL) and PPSV23/PLY (2.17) passively immunized rabbits had less MPO activity compared to controls (5.64; P = 0.0480), and both passive immunizations (PLY = 31.34% loss of retinal function, PPSV23/PLY = 27.44%) helped to significantly preserve retinal function compared to controls (64.58%; P = 0.0323). When vancomycin was administered 4 hours PI, all eyes were sterile at 24 hours PI. A significantly lower clinical severity was observed for rabbits administered the combination immunization (5.29) or PPSV23 (5.29) with vancomycin treatment compared to controls (17.68; P = 0.0469).

Conclusions

Passive immunization with antisera to these antigens is effective in reducing clinical severity of pneumococcal endophthalmitis in rabbits. Addition of vancomycin to immunization is effective at eliminating the bacteria.
Persistent household food insecurity, HIV, and maternal stress in Peri-Urban Ghana
Authors: Garcia Jonathan , Hromi-Fiedler Amber , Mazur Robert E , Marquis Grace , Sellen Daniel , Lartey Anna , Pérez-Escamilla Rafael
Published: March 2013

Background

The mental health of caregivers has been shown to be important for improving HIV prevention and treatment. Household food insecurity affects hundreds of millions of individuals in Sub-Saharan Africa, a region that experiences a disproportionate burden of the HIV pandemic. Both maternal HIV diagnosis and household food insecurity may be linked with maternal stress. This in turn may lead to unhealthy coping behaviors. We examined the independent associations of HIV, persistent household food insecurity and the synergistic effect of both on maternal stress.

Methods

Ghanaian women recruited prenatally from hospitals offering voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) were followed for 12 months after childbirth (N = 232). A locally adapted 7-item version of the US Household Food Security Survey Module was applied at four time points postpartum. We dichotomized participant households as being persistently food insecure (i.e., food insecure at each time point) or not (i.e., food secure at any time point). We dichotomized participant women as not perceiving vs. perceiving stress at 12 months postpartum in reference to the median sample score on the 4-item Cohen’s stress scale. Binary multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess the independent and interactive effects of maternal HIV and persistent household food insecurity on maternal stress.

Results

The proportion of HIV-positive women that lived in severe food insecure households increased over time. By contrast, the HIV-negative group living in severely food insecure households experienced a steady decline across time. HIV-infection (AOR = 2.31, 95% CI 1.29-4.12) and persistent household food insecurity (AOR = 3.55, 95% CI 1.13-11.13) were independently associated with maternal stress in a multivariate model. Being both HIV-positive and persistently food insecure strongly and synergistically increased the risk for maternal perceived stress (AOR = 15.35, 95% CI 1.90-124.14).

Conclusion

In agreement with syndemic theory there is a powerful synergism between maternal HIV diagnosis and household food insecurity on maternal stress. Comprehensive multi-dimensional intervention studies are needed to better understand how to reduce stress among HIV-positive women living in persistently food insecure households and how to reduce the likelihood of food insecurity in HIV-affected households in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Uphill treadmill running does not induce histopathological changes in the rat Achilles tendon
Authors: Dirks Rachel C , Richard Jeffrey S , Fearon Angela M , Scott Alexander , Koch Lauren G , Britton Steven L , Warden Stuart J
Published: March 2013

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether uphill treadmill running in rats created histopathological changes within the Achilles tendon consistent with Achilles tendinosis in humans.

Methods

Twenty-six mature rats selectively bred for high-capacity running were divided into run and cage control groups. Run group rats ran on a treadmill at a 15° incline for a maximum duration of 1 hr/d, 5 d/wk for 9 weeks at increasing speeds, while rats in the cage control group maintained normal cage activity. After 9 weeks, Achilles tendons were harvested for histological processing and semi-quantitative histopathological analysis.

Results

There were no significant group differences within each of the individual histopathological categories assessed (all p ≥ 0.16) or for total histopathological score (p = 0.14).

Conclusions

Uphill treadmill running in rats selectively bred for high-capacity running did not generate Achilles tendon changes consistent with the histopathological presentation of Achilles tendinosis in humans.
Detection of border disease virus (BDV) in goat herds suffering diarrhea in eastern China
Authors: Li Wenliang , Mao Li , Zhao Yongqian , Sun Yinhua , He Kongwang , Jiang Jieyuan
Published: March 2013

Background

Border disease virus (BDV) is an important pathogen in sheep and goat production. Neither epidemiological investigation nor any reports of BDV infection was available in China. During Jan to Apr, 2012, several herd goats in Anhui and Jiangsu provinces in eastern China suffered unremitting diarrhea, with morbidity and mortality of about 28-37% and 10-15%, respectively. In the present study, sera and tissue samples from diseased goats of four farms were taken for BDV detection, isolation and identification.

Results

Panpesti generic primers and border disease virus (BDV)-specific primers targeting the 5’-UTR region produced RT-PCR positive bands for sera (24/28) and tissue samples (7/30). Twenty positive sera and tissue samples were inoculated onto Madin-Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) cells for virus isolation. Finally, three different strains of BDV, named AH12-01, AH12-02 and JS12/04, were successfully isolated as identified by RT-PCR using 5’-UTR and Npro gene primers, sequencing and electron microscopy. Sequences of 5’-UTR and Npro genes of them were used for phylogenetic analysis and comparison to other reference sequences available in GenBank. The results indicated AH12-01, AH12-02 and JS12/04 possess high relationship with the BDV 3 group viruses and differed with each other.

Conclusion

This is the first detection of BDV from goats with diarrhea and confirmation of BDV infection in China.
The new age of play audiometry: Prospective validation testing of an iPad-based play audiometer
Authors: Yeung Jeffrey , Javidnia Hedyeh , Heley Sophie , Beauregard Yves , Champagne Sandra , Bromwich Matthew
Published: March 2013

Objective

The timely diagnosis of hearing loss in the pediatric population has significant implications for a child's development. However, audiological evaluation in this population poses unique challenges due to difficulties with patient cooperation. Though specialized adaptations exist (such as conditioned play audiometry), these methods can be time consuming and costly. The objective of this study was to validate an iPad-based play audiometer that addresses the shortcomings of existing audiometry.

Methods

We designed a novel, interactive game for the Apple® iPad® that tests pure tone thresholds. In a prospective, randomized study, the efficacy of this tool was compared to standard play audiometry. 85 consecutive patients presenting to the Audiology Clinic at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (ages 3 and older) were recruited into this study. Their hearing was evaluated using both tablet and traditional play audiometry.

Outcome measure

Warble-tone thresholds obtained by both tablet and traditional audiometry.

Results

The majority of children in this age group were capable of completing an audiologic assessment using the tablet computer. The data demonstrate no statistically significant difference between warble-tone thresholds obtained by tablet and traditional audiometry (p=0.29). Moreover, the tablet audiometer demonstrates strong sensitivity (93.3%), specificity (94.5%) and negative predictive value (98.1%).

Conclusion

The tablet audiometer is a valid and sensitive instrument for screening and assessment of warble-tone thresholds in children.
Neuromuscular blocking agents in acute respiratory distress syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Alhazzani Waleed , Alshahrani Mohamed , Jaeschke Roman , Forel Jean Marie , Papazian Laurent , Sevransky Jonathan , Meade Maureen O
Published: March 2013

Introduction

Randomized trials investigating neuromuscular blocking agents in adult acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) have been inconclusive about effects on mortality, which is very high in this population. Uncertainty also exists about the associated risk of ICU-acquired weakness.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched the Cochrane (Central) database, MEDLINE, EMBASE, ACP Journal Club, and clinical trial registries for randomized trials investigating survival effects of neuromuscular blocking agents in adults with ARDS. Two independent reviewers abstracted data and assessed methodologic quality. Primary study investigators provided additional unpublished data.

Results

Three trials (431 patients; 20 centers; all from the same research group in France) met inclusion criteria for this review. All trials assessed 48-hour infusions of cisatracurium besylate. Short-term infusion of cisatracurium besylate was associated with lower hospital mortality (RR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.58 to 0.91; P = 0.005; I2 = 0). This finding was robust on sensitivity analyses. Neuromuscular blockade was also associated with lower risk of barotrauma (RR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.20 to 0.90; P = 0.02; I2 = 0), but had no effect on the duration of mechanical ventilation among survivors (MD, 0.25 days; 95% CI, 5.48 to 5.99; P = 0.93; I2 = 49%), or the risk of ICU-acquired weakness (RR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.83 to 1.41; P = 0.57; I2 = 0). Primary studies lacked protracted measurements of weakness.

Conclusions

Short-term infusion of cisatracurium besylate reduces hospital mortality and barotrauma and does not appear to increase ICU-acquired weakness for critically ill adults with ARDS.
Glycyrrhizin protects against porcine endotoxemia through modulation of systemic inflammatory response
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhao Feng , Fang Yong , Li Xiantao , Shen Lei , Cao Tongwa , Zhu Hechen
Published: March 2013

Introduction

Glycyrrhizin (GL) was recently found to suppress high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1)-induced injury by binding directly to it. However, the effect of GL on HMGB1 expression in endotoxemia as well as its underlying molecular mechanism remained unclear.

Methods

Twenty-one pigs were divided into four groups: sham group (n = 3), control group (n = 6), ethyl pyruvate group (n = 6) and glycyrrhizin group (n = 6). Pigs were anesthetized, mechanically ventilated, monitored and given a continuous intravenous infusion of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Twelve hours after the start of the LPS infusion, ethyl pyruvate (30 mg/kg/hr) or glycyrrhizin (1 mg/kg/hr) was administered for 12 hours. Systemic and pulmonary hemodynamics, oxygen exchange, and metabolic status were measured. The concentrations of cytokines in serum and the corresponding gene and protein expressions in tissue samples from liver, lungs, kidneys, small intestine and lymph nodes were measured.

Results

GL maintained the stability of systemic hemodynamics and improved pulmonary oxygen exchange and metabolic status. GL also attenuated organ injury and decreased the serum levels of HMGB1 and other pro-inflammatory cytokines by inhibiting their gene and protein expression.

Conclusions

GL improved systemic hemodynamics and protected vital organs against porcine endotoxemia through modulation of the systemic inflammatory response. By reducing the serum level and gene expression of HMGB1 and other pro-inflammatory cytokines, GL may become a potential agent for the treatment of sepsis.
Which parameterization is suitable for acoustic vertical transverse isotropic full waveform inversion? Part 2: Synthetic and real data case studies from Valhall
Authors: Gholami Yaser , Brossier Romain , Operto Stéphane , Prieux Vincent , Ribodetti Alessandra , Virieux Jean
Published: March 2013

It is necessary to account for anisotropy in full waveform inversion (FWI) of wide-azimuth and wide-aperture seismic data in most geologic environments, for correct depth positioning of reflectors, and for reliable estimations of wave speeds as a function of the direction of propagation. In this framework, choosing a suitable anisotropic subsurface parameterization is a central issue in monoparameter and multiparameter FWI. This is because this parameterization defines the influence of each physical parameter class on the data as a function of the scattering angle, and hence the resolution of the parameter reconstruction, and on the potential trade-off between different parameter classes. We apply monoparameter and multiparameter frequency-domain acoustic vertical transverse isotropic FWI to synthetic and real wide-aperture data, representative of the Valhall oil field. We first show that reliable monoparameter FWI can be performed to build a high-resolution velocity model (for the vertical, the horizontal, or normal move-out velocity), provided that the background models of two Thomsen parameters describe the long wavelengths of the subsurface sufficiently accurately. Alternatively, we show the feasibility of the joint reconstruction of two wave speeds (e.g., the vertical and horizontal wave speeds) with limited trade-off effects, while Thomsen parameter [Formula: see text] is kept fixed during the inversion. The influence of the wave speeds on the data for a limited range of scattering angles when combined each other can, however, significantly hamper the resolution with which the two wave speeds are imaged. These conclusions inferred from the application to the real data are fully consistent with those inferred from the theoretical parameterization analysis of acoustic vertical transverse isotropic FWI performed in the companion report.
President's Page
Authors: Servos Gary G.
Published: March 2013

Before you ask any questions, the answer, YES, is resounding. Let me start by summarizing several questions into one generic question: Is SEG operating on a solid (sound) financial basis? SEG's Annual Report publishes the audited financials in the fall just before the international meeting. I doubt whether a great number of our members actually review the detailed financial report. If you are one of the individuals who does indeed review the annual financials, you should have noted that, year-after-year-after-year, the independent auditors have given SEG a strong positive report. This is to be expected because for years (probably since the founding of our Society), your elected officials (please remember they are all volunteer members) and an extremely dedicated staff have always taken their fiduciary responsibilities seriously. In other words, you have trusted them to manage SEG's finances and they have.
Introduction to this special section: Urban geophysics
Authors: Miller Rick
Published: March 2013

Urban geophysics ups the ante in the world of applied geophysics, if for no other reason than the settings. The objectives and associated challenges are the same as other applications: to characterize, image, delineate, detect, resolve, etc. But it is the arena that makes the job of the urban geophysicist not one for the timid. It is a job that requires innovative thinking and seemingly off-the-wall approaches. Geophysical warriors who take on these daunting missions are cut from a unique cloth, the Team 6 of the applied geophysical community. Well, maybe that is a bit over the top, but as you will see in this special section, meeting the data challenges of urban settings and dealing with associated human sprawl requires problem-solving that clearly steps well beyond anything they tried to teach us in school.
Shear-wave reflection seismics as a valuable tool for near-surface urban applications
Authors: Krawczyk Charlotte M. , Polom Ulrich , Beilecke Thies
Published: March 2013

Subsurface investigations in urban areas have to take sealed surfaces and densely built and populated areas into account. The shear-wave reflection seismic system developed at the Leibniz Institute for Applied Geophysics (LIAG) provides a solution for this acquisition technology problem using horizontally polarized shear waves (SH-waves) and noninvasive source and receiver designs.
Evaluating hazards at salt cavern sites using multichannel analysis of surface waves
Authors: Ivanov Julian , Leitner Birgit , Shefchik William , Shwenk J. Tyler , Peterie Shelby L.
Published: March 2013

Subsidence resulting in sinkholes within dissolution mine fields in and around the city of Hutchinson, Kansas, USA (Figure 1) has been reported for more than 90 years. Salt dissolution and the resulting unpredictable upward migration of the dissolution voids can be observed both in proximity to well bores (dissolution mining, brine disposal, and oil wells; seismic shot holes, etc.) and in areas known to experience natural dissolution with no apparent anthropogenic influences. One potential outcome of the upward migration of these long-inactive dissolution voids in the city of Hutchinson is significant structural damage to facilities, infrastructure, or traffic areas. Monitoring the condition of a void's roof is key to determining and managing this risk. Drilling is expensive for this investigative application in part because of the number of potential targets. At a depth of approximately 120 m, most surface geophysical methods have neither the sensitivity nor resolution necessary to detect these voids, much less interrogate the roof.
Best papers selected from the 2012 SEG Annual Meeting
Authors: Harris Spring
Published: March 2013

Every year, SEG honors the 30 best papers presented at the Annual Meeting. These papers are chosen from among the hundreds of e-Poster, oral, and poster presentations given each year. Approximately 900 presentations were given at the 2012 SEG Annual Meeting held in Las Vegas last November. The process for selecting the best paper relies on participation and input from the chair, cochair, and audience members from each presentation. They view the presentation, and then evaluate it using a judging form designed for that specific type of presentation.
Fitting International Segmentation for Emerging Markets: Conceptual Development and Empirical Illustration
Authors: Schlager Tobias , Maas Peter
Published: March 2013

The increasing attractiveness of emerging markets (EMs), alongside the progression of internationalization, raises the question whether setting up a unified marketing strategy for EMs and high-income countries is appropriate. In this study, the authors use institutionally induced heterogeneity, which refers to distinct consumer patterns evoked by contextual differences, to elaborate on the requirements of an international segmentation that includes EMs, such as microlevel analyses and the inclusion of institutional effects. The authors numerically illustrate the established requirements by applying a multilevel finite mixture modeling of global consumer multichannel (search and purchase) behavior. Doing so provides an initial large-scale analysis that compares consumers from EMs and high-income countries. The findings broadly support the suggested requirements, contributing to the international segmentation and EM literature. Practitioners can apply the insights of this investigation to establish an international marketing strategy. The key recommendation proposes that a case-by-case analysis of EMs is necessary and that solely considering EMs derives incorrect conclusions about international segmentation.
The Influence of Disorganized Shelf Displays and Limited Product Quantity on Consumer Purchase
Authors: Castro Iana A. , Morales Andrea C. , Nowlis Stephen M.
Published: March 2013

The current research explores how shelf display organization and limited product quantity together influence consumer purchase. The authors find that, in certain cases, shelves that are disorganized and not fully stocked tend to reduce sales, but in other cases, disorganized shelves that are not fully stocked tend to increase sales. In particular, for products that are ingested (e.g., juice), purchase likelihood is reduced when the product appears to be disorganized and product quantity is limited. However, for products that are not ingested (e.g., fabric softener), purchase likelihood increases when the product appears to be disorganized and product quantity is limited. Importantly, the authors also show that brand familiarity moderates these effects.
Fusing Aggregate and Disaggregate Data with an Application to Multiplatform Media Consumption
Authors: Feit Eleanor McDonnell , Wang Pengyuan , Bradlow Eric T. , Fader Peter S.
Published: March 2013

As firms collect greater amounts of data about their customers from an ever broader set of “touchpoints,” a new set of methodological challenges arises. Companies often collect data from these various platforms at differing levels of aggregation, and it is not clear how to merge these data sources to draw meaningful inferences about customer-level behavior patterns. In this article, the authors provide a method that firms can use, based on readily available data, to gauge and monitor multiplatform media usage. The key innovation in the method is a Bayesian data-fusion approach that enables researchers to combine individual-level usage data (readily available for most digital platforms) with aggregated data on usage over time (typically available for traditional platforms). This method enables the authors to disentangle the intraday correlations between platforms (i.e., the usage of one platform vs. another on a given day) from longer-term correlations across users (i.e., heavy/light usage of multiple platforms over time). The authors conclude with a discussion of how this method can be used in a variety of marketing contexts for which data have become readily available, such as gauging the interplay between online and brick-and-mortar purchasing behavior.
Growth Kinetics of the Anodic Oxide Film on Platinum under Potentiodynamic Polarization Conditions
Authors: Bao JianEr , Macdonald Digby D.
Published: March 2013

A theory for the anodic oxidation of a metal under linear potentiodynamic conditions is derived based upon the Point Defect Model (PDM), by considering two contributions to the current; that from the metal oxidation reaction and that from capacitive charging. The veracity of the theory is demonstrated by analyzing linear potentiodynamic polarization curves for platinum in the oxide formation potential region. By optimizing the derived potential sweep rate-dependent current density expression on the measuredivs.Vpolarization data for the electrochemical oxidation of platinum in 0.1 M KOH solution at ambient temperature (22 ± 2 ºC) as a function of potential sweep rate, kinetic parameters for the growth and dissolution of the anodic film on platinum are extracted. The growth and dissolution rates of the oxide film are of the order of × 1012m/s (0.001 nm/s). The structure and electronic properties of the anodic film on platinum are also discussed. The film isn-type in electronic character, and is postulated to be a nano-crystalline structure probably comprising columnar, tetragonal unit cells or half cells (monolayer of oxygen) oriented with thec-axis perpendicular to the metal surface for an optimal epitaxial relationship with the substrate metal. For the very thinnest films (<0.1 nmthick), the film is postulated to comprise “buried” oxygen atoms or ions in the platinum surface.
Estudo do processo de desertificação na Caatinga: uma proposta de educação ambiental
Authors: Araújo Cristina de Sousa Felizola , Sousa Antonio Nóbrega de
Published: March 2013

As restrições físicas e químicas dos solos do semiárido nordestino, bem como a exploração intensiva dos recursos naturais e o super pastoreio tornam a Caatinga vulnerável à desertificação e à ameaça de extinção de espécies nativas, a exemplo do mororó. A introdução da Educação Ambiental na escola é importante na medida em que o educador e a escola conhecem o aluno e sua comunidade; desenvolvem temas ambientais que possam criar uma interação entre o ensino e o cotidiano dos estudantes, adotam livro didático que apresente preocupações com questões ambientais, e, também, atraem professores de outras disciplinas para se engajarem em projetos interdisciplinares. O presente artigo teve o objetivo de investigar o desmatamento do vegetal mororó na localidade de Mororó do Hermínio, no Cariri paraibano, e propor temas ambientais que possam ser aplicados em aulas de Ciências e Química.
Análise de atitudes de alunos universitários em relação à estatística por meio da teoria de resposta ao item
Authors: Turik Claudia , Viali Lori , Moraes João Feliz Duarte de
Published: March 2013

O presente estudo faz uma análise das respostas fornecidas por uma amostra de 360 graduandos à Escala de Atitudes em relação à Estatística (EAE). Para tanto, o ajuste do Modelo de Resposta Gradual da Teoria de Resposta ao Item foi efetuado no software PARSCALE. A escala apresentou parâmetros de discriminação dos itens (a i) indo de moderado a alto. Os parâmetros de dificuldade dos itens (b i) mostraram que a proposição de mais fácil concordância por parte dos alunos foi referente à tensão sentida, pelos mesmos, durante as aulas de estatística. As variáveis que mostraram influenciar no nível de atitudes foram: área de estudo, autopercepção de desempenho na disciplina e reconhecimento da aplicabilidade da estatística. Esses resultados sugerem que sejam adotadas estratégias para desenvolvimento de um ambiente de ensino-aprendizado estimulante, agradável, e que reforce as aplicações da estatística no contexto do curso de cada estudante.
Radiographic Confirmation of Feeding Tube Placement: A Diagnostic Tool Identifying Gastrointestinal Anomalies
Authors: Soylu Hanifi , Wiseman Nathan E. , El-Sayed Yasser , Yi Man , Baier R. John
Published: March 2013

Feeding tubes are commonly used in neonatal intensive care units, and their abnormal position seen on radiographs may indicate underlying serious problems. We recently cared for two infants who presented with clinical deterioration. An abnormally placed feeding tube seen on the chest radiograph revealed underlying serious conditions. The first case was an infant 29 weeks of age who presented with right-sided pneumothorax after birth. By history and a right-side-displaced orogastric (OG) tube, iatrogenic esophageal perforation was diagnosed. The second case was a 16-day-old infant who presented with recurrent vomiting. An OG tube extending into a cystic mass at the right cardiophrenic angle resulted in diagnosis of a herniated stomach with organoaxial-type volvulus, which required surgical repair. Both cases recovered uneventfully. As illustrated in these two rare cases, feeding tube position is not only important for feeding practice, but it also has diagnostic implications in newborn infants.
Cellulosic Biofuel Potential of a Winter Rye Double Crop across the U.S. Corn–Soybean Belt
Authors: Feyereisen Gary W. , Camargo Gustavo G. T. , Baxter Ryan E. , Baker John M. , Richard Tom L.
Published: March 2013

Interest in renewable energy sources derived from plant biomass is increasing, raising concerns about fuel vs. food competition. One strategy to produce additional cellulosic biomass without reducing food‐harvest potential is to grow winter cover crops after harvest of the primary summer crop. This study estimated biomass accumulation of a fall‐planted winter rye (Secale cereale L.) double crop across the United States on corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] croplands. We identified corn and soybean areas by county using National Agricultural Statistics Service data, excluding irrigated land and areas already supporting a winter small‐grain crop. Within this area, we calculated biomass production after corn harvest and before the subsequent corn or soybean crop for 30 locations using RyeGro, a cover‐crop simulation model. Average RyeGro biomass yields for a 14‐yr period were used to develop a regression model based on temperature and precipitation, which was used to determine rye biomass potential in each county. The spatial analysis indicated that 7.44 Mha in continuous corn and 31.7 Mha in a corn–soybean rotation are suitable for producing winter rye. The average RyeGro biomass yield for the 30 locations for six planting–harvest date scenarios is 4.2 Mg ha−1. The regression modeling results projected that 112 to 151 Tg (120–170 million U.S. tons) of rye biomass can be harvested from this land base 14 to 7 d, respectively, before spring crop planting. The study demonstrates the sizable potential for this strategy to produce cellulosic biofuel feedstock without redirecting the primary food crop to fuel.
Characterization and Impact of the Sugarcane Borer on Sugarcane Yield and Quality
Authors: de S. Rossato José A. , Costa Gustavo H. G. , Madaleno Leonardo L. , Mutton Márcia J. R. , Higley Leon G. , Fernandes Odair A.
Published: March 2013

The sugarcane borer, Diatraea saccharalis (F.) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), is a key pest of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.). While damage caused by this pest has increased in the past 20 yr, studies investigating the insect–plant interactions are still lacking. Moreover, there is no information about the consequences of borer damage on the parameters of sugar quality. Therefore, two field experiments were performed during the 2010 and 2011 growing seasons in Brazil to compare the raw material and sugar quality of SP80‐3280 sugarcane plants with and without the sugarcane borer. Plants were protected within screen cages and infested weekly during the 2010 and 2011 seasons, using egg masses starting at the second and third internode stage. At harvest, 25.77 and 19.01% of the internodes were bored by larvae (infestation intensity, II) in the first and second seasons, respectively. There was no correlation between the borer gallery total volume and II. The fiber content significantly increased with increasing II. The stalk biometric parameters, such as length, diameter, and yield, were not correlated with II. The sucrose yield significantly decreased with increasing II. Consequently, sugar yield losses were estimated at 8.83 and 19.80% per 1% bored internode for the first and second seasons, respectively. The concentration of phenolic compounds increased, and unclarified juice color quality decreased, with increasing II. Significant differences were detected in the quality of the sugar. These results should be confirmed for other sugarcane cultivars and incorporated into an economic injury level to enhance decision‐making strategies for borer management.
Modeling Biological Dinitrogen Fixation of Field Pea with a Process‐Based Simulation Model
Authors: Liu Yanyan , Wu L. , Watson C. A. , Baddeley J. A. , Pan Xuebiao , Zhang Lizhen
Published: March 2013

Improved prediction of biological N2 fixation by grain and forage legume crops will help the design of more efficient, sustainable agricultural systems. We used field pea (Pisum sativum L.) as an example and focused during model development on inputs that are relatively easy to measure. We propose a new algorithm, which uses the aboveground biomass of legume crops to estimate the N2 fixation rate and have incorporated it into the SPACSYS model. The model was parameterized for field pea and validated against published data from two northern European sites in Dijon, France, and Copenhagen, Denmark. The model simulated the dynamic processes of N2 fixation, N accumulation, and aboveground dry matter accumulation of field pea. Sensitivity analysis showed that N2 fixation at Dijon was very sensitive to low temperature and photosynthetic rate and that a larger green leaf area and faster establishment in young pea plants coupled with a high photosynthetic rate would enhance N2 fixation. We suggest that cultivar breeding aimed at cold resistance and a higher photosynthetic rate could increase N2 fixation under a similar climate.
Governance, socio-economic and geophysical indices for determining water-related disaster risk
Authors: Adikari Y. , Osti R. , Hiroki K.
Published: March 2013

Governance, socio-economic and geophysical indicators are indispensable measures of risk for water-related disasters leading to a better disaster risk mitigation and management for sustainable development. Water-related disaster countermeasures are weak in non-OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries, thus higher economic losses and younger fatalities are concentrated there; for example, the majority of fatalities in developing nations are 50 years old or less, in contrast to those in developed nations where the most are older than 60 years old; furthermore, economic losses of 2.8, 19.7 and 2.7% of GDP were incurred during Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh, Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar, and Typhoon Ketsana in the Philippines, respectively. A transfer of scientific knowledge and technology from developed to developing countries is helpful in strengthening water-related disaster countermeasures to reduce economic losses and fatalities. Natural hazards correspond to geophysical features, thus the categorization of these features leads to an understanding of corresponding natural hazards which helps disaster mitigation and land-use and policy planning for future development. A combination of governance, socio-economic and geophysical water-related disaster indicators is therefore an indispensable development index.
Transcutaneous Treatment with Vetdrop® Sustains the Adjacent Cartilage in a Microfracturing Joint Defect Model in Sheep
Authors: Sidler M , Fouché N , Meth I , von Hahn F , von Rechenberg B , Kronen PW
Published: March 2013

The significance of the adjacent cartilage in cartilage defect healing is not yet completely understood. Furthermore, it is unknown if the adjacent cartilage can somehow be influenced into responding after cartilage damage. The present study was undertaken to investigate whether the adjacent cartilage can be better sustained after microfracturing in a cartilage defect model in the stifle joint of sheep using a transcutaneous treatment concept (Vetdrop®).

Carprofen and chito-oligosaccharids were added either as single components or as a mixture to a vehicle suspension consisting of a herbal carrier oil in a water-in-oil phase. This mixture was administered onto the skin with the aid of a specific applicator during 6 weeks in 28 sheep, allocated into 6 different groups, that underwent microfracturing surgery either on the left or the right medial femoral condyle. Two groups served as control and were either treated intravenously or sham treated with oxygen only. Sheep were sacrificed and their medial condyle histologically evaluated qualitatively and semi-quantitatively according to 4 different scoring systems (Mankin, ICRS, Little and O’Driscoll).

The adjacent cartilage of animals of group 4 treated transcutaneously with vehicle, chito-oligosaccharids and carprofen had better histological scores compared to all the other groups (Mankin 3.3±0.8, ICRS 15.7±0.7, Little 9.0±1.4).

Complete defect filling was absent from the transcutaneous treatment groups.

The experiment suggests that the adjacent cartilage is susceptible to treatment and that the combination of vehicle, chitooligosaccharids and carprofen may sustain the adjacent cartilage during the recovery period.
Geodesic mappings of equiaffine and anti-equiaffine general affine connection spaces preserving torsion
Authors: Stankovic Mica , Ciric Marija , Zlatanovic Milan
Published: March 2013

In this paper we consider equitorsion geodesic mappings of equiaffine spaces
of the ?-kind, ? ? {0, ..., 5}. In the case when ? ? {0, 5}, vector ?i ,
which determines that mapping, is gradient, which doesn?t hold in general
case. We found the condition when the vector ?i is gradient in the case of
? ? {1, ..., 4}. Some invariant geometric objects of such mappings are
found. Anti-equiaffine spaces of ?-kind, ? ? {0, ..., 5} are introduced
and discussed. Equitorsion geodesic mappings of such spaces are
described and some invariants are found.
Application of the pseudoinverse computation in reconstruction of blurred images
Authors: Miljkovic Sladjana , Miladinovic Marko , Stanimirovic Predrag , Stojanovic Igor
Published: March 2013

We present a direct method for removing uniform linear motion blur from
images. The method is based on a straightforward construction of the
Moore-Penrose inverse of the blurring matrix for a given mathematical model.
The computational load of the method is decreased significantly with respect
to other competitive methods, while the resolution of the restored images
remains at a very high level. The method is implemented in the programming
package MATLand respective numerical examples are presented.
Quasiconformality of harmonic mappings between Jordan domains
Authors: Mateljevic Miodrag
Published: March 2013

Suppose that h is a harmonic mapping of the unit disc onto a C1, ? domain D.
Then h is q.c. if and only if it is bi-Lipschitz. In particular, we
consider sufficient and necessary conditions in terms of boundary function
that h is q.c. We give a review of recent related results including the case
when domain is the upper half plane. We also consider harmonic mapping with
respect to ? metric on codomain.
Radii of starlikeness and convexity for functions with fixed second coefficient defined by subordination
Authors: Ali Rosihan , Cho Eun , Jain Kumar , Ravichandran V.
Published: March 2013

Several radii problems are considered for functions f (z) = z + a2z2 + ...
with fixed second coefficient a2. For 0 ? ? < 1, sharp radius of starlikeness
of order ? for several subclasses of functions are obtained. These include
the class of parabolic starlike functions, the class of Janowski starlike
functions, and the class of strongly starlike functions. Sharp radius of
convexity of order ? for uniformly convex functions, and sharp radius of
strong-starlikeness of order ? for starlike functions associated with the
lemniscate of Bernoulli are also obtained as special cases.
The Effect of Evidence Strength and Internal Rewards on Intentions to Report Fraud in the Dodd-Frank Regulatory Environment
Authors: Brink Alisa G. , Lowe D. Jordan , Victoravich Lisa M.
Published: March 2013

There are many unanswered questions and concerns regarding the consequences of the fraud whistleblowing environment created by the Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) and Dodd-Frank Acts. While SOX requires audit committees to implement anonymous internal reporting channels, the Dodd-Frank Act offers substantial monetary incentives that encourage reporting to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). To mitigate concerns that employees might bypass internal channels, some companies are considering offering internal whistleblowing incentives. However, it is unclear how internal incentives will affect employee whistleblowing behavior. We experimentally examine the impact of an internal incentive on employees' intentions to report fraud. Across treatments, we find a greater likelihood of reporting internally than to the SEC. Evidence strength interacts with the presence of an internal incentive such that SEC reporting intentions are greatest when evidence is strong and an internal incentive is present. When evidence is weak, the presence of an internal incentive decreases SEC reporting intentions.

Data Availability: Data used in this study are available from the authors upon request.
Release of metal ions from fixed orthodontic appliance: An in vitro study in continuous flow system
Authors: Mikulewicz Marcin , Chojnacka Katarzyna , Wołowiec Paulina
Published: March 2013

Objective:

To evaluate the release of metal ions from fixed orthodontic appliances.

Materials and Methods:

A new system for in vitro testing of dental materials was constructed and consisted of a thermostatic glass reactor that enabled immersion of the studied material. Experimental conditions reflected the human oral cavity, with a temperature of 37°C and a saliva flow rate of 0.5mL/min. The simulated fixed orthodontic appliance made of stainless steel was evaluated. Sampling was performed at several time points during the 28-day study, and the metal ion concentration was determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry.

Results:

The total mass of released metal ions from the appliance during 4 weeks of the experiment was as follows nickel 18.7 μg, chromium 5.47 μg, copper 31.3 μg.

Conclusions:

The estimated doses of nickel, chromium, and copper determined by extrapolation of experimental data released during the treatment period were far below the toxic dose to humans. This shows that orthodontic treatment might not be a significant source of exposure to these metal ions.
Control and Fault Diagnosis Based Sliding Mode Observer of a Multicellular Converter: Hybrid Approach
Authors: Benzineb Omar , Taibi Fateh , Laleg-Kirati Taous Meriem , Seghir Boucherit Mohamed , Tadjine Mohamed
Published: March 2013

In this article, the diagnosis of a three cell converter is developed. The hybrid nature of the system represented by the presence of continuous and discrete dynamics is taken into account in the control design. The idea is based on using a hybrid control and an observer-type sliding mode to generate residuals from the observation errors of the system. The simulation results are presented at the end to illustrate the performance of the proposed approach.
Prion protein and its role in signal transduction
Authors: Didonna Alessandro
Published: March 2013

Prion diseases are a class of fatal neurodegenerative disorders that can be sporadic, genetic or iatrogenic. They are characterized by the unique nature of their etiologic agent: prions (PrPSc). A prion is an infectious protein with the ability to convert the host-encoded cellular prion protein (PrPC) into new prion molecules by acting as a template. Since Stanley B. Prusiner proposed the “protein-only” hypothesis for the first time, considerable effort has been put into defining the role played by PrPC in neurons. However, its physiological function remains unclear. This review summarizes the major findings that support the involvement of PrPC in signal transduction.
Catalytic gasification of pyrolytic oil from tire pyrolysis process
Authors: Gašparovič Lukáš , Šugár Lukáš , Jelemenský Ľudovít , Markoš Jozef
Published: March 2013

The present work deals with thermo-catalytic decomposition of pyrolytic oil from the scrap tire pyrolysis process. Such oil can be used as a model tar in an experimental study of tar removal from pyrolysis or gasification process gas. Several experiments under different conditions were carried out in order to determine conditions of the gasification and pyrolysis processes. Influence of the oil to steam ratio, temperature, and of the presence of dolomite catalyst was studied. Addition of water steam has positive effect on the hydrogen content in the outgoing process gas as well as on the conversion of the injected oil. The catalytic gasification experiment in a quasi steady state produced process gas with the composition: 61 mole % of H2, 6.4 mole % of CO, and 11.7 mole % of CH4. At temperatures lower than 800°C, the amount of process gas decreased resulting also in a decrease of the oil conversion. A comparison of gasification experiments using fresh calcined dolomite with experiments proceeding with regenerated dolomite was done under the same conditions. There was a decrease in the process gas volumetric flow when regenerated catalyst was used.
Multi-Level Analysis of Authentic Leadership from a Turkish Consruction Engineers Perspective
Authors: Özkan Semra , Ceylan Adnan
Published: March 2013

Authentic leaders are leaders who when called upon by the hand of fate, will be the ones who take a stand that changes the course of history for others, be they organizations, departments or just other individuals (May, Chan, Hodges & Avolio, 2003). That’s the answer of why authentic leadership? In this study we explore authentic leadership in Turkey from a multilevel perspective. We used the authentic leadership measure developed by Walumbwa, Avolio, Gardner, Wernsing and Peterson in 2008. We also tested the generalizability and validity of the AL measure in a different cultural context.