bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Filling-in of far-red and near-Infrared solar lines by terrestrial and atmospheric effects: simulations and space-based observations from SCIAMACHY and GOSAT
Authors: Joiner J. , Yoshida Y. , Vasilkov A. P. , Middleton E. M. , Campbell P. K. E. , Yoshida Y. , Kuze A. , Corp L. A.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. Global mapping of terrestrial vegetation fluorescence from space has recently been accomplished with high spectral resolution (ν/Δν>35 000) measurements from the Japanese Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite (GOSAT). These data are of interest because they can potentially provide global information on the functional status of vegetation including light use efficiency and global primary productivity that can be used for global carbon cycle modeling. Quantifying the impact of fluorescence on the O2-A band is important as this band is used for cloud- and aerosol-characterization for other trace-gas retrievals including CO2. Here, we explore whether fluorescence information can be derived from space using potentially lower-cost hyperspectral instrumentation, i.e., more than an order of magnitude less spectral resolution (ν/Δν ∼1600) than GOSAT, with a relatively simple algorithm. We simulate the filling-in, from various atmospheric and terrestrial effects, of one of the few wide and deep solar Fraunhofer lines in the long-wave tail of the fluorescence emission region, the calcium (Ca) II line near 866 nm. We then examine filling-in of this line using the SCanning Imaging Absorption spectroMeter for Atmospheric CHartographY (SCIAMACHY) satellite instrument. We develop and apply methodology to correct for various instrumental artifacts that produce false filling-in of solar lines in satellite radiance measurements. We then compare the derived additive near-InfraRed (NIR) signal at 866 nm, that fills in the Ca II line, with larger signals retrieved at 758 and 770 nm on the shoulders of the O2-A feature from GOSAT that are presumably due primarily to vegetation fluorescence. Finally, we compare temporal and spatial variations of GOSAT and SCIAMACHY additive signals with those of the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) from the MODerate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS). Although the observed filling-in signal from SCIAMACHY is extremely weak at 866 nm, the spatial and temporal patterns of the derived additive signal are consistent with a vegetation source, chlorophyll-a fluorescence being a plausible candidate. We also show that filling-in occurs at 866 nm over some barren areas, possibly originating from luminescent minerals in rock and soil.
Quasi-two-day wave in the lower atmosphere over Hyderabad during summer of 2009
Authors: Dutta G. , Mohammad S. , Satyakumar M. , Reddy Y. K. , Vinay Kumar P. , Rao P. V. , Ajay Kumar M. C.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. The characteristics of the quasi-2-day wave (QTDW) in the lower atmosphere (1–50 km) has been investigated using wind and temperature data obtained from India Meteorological Department (IMD), Hyderabad (17.4° N, 78.5° E) and ECMWF Re-Analysis (ERA-interim) data for (18° N, 78° E) which is the nearest grid to the location of observation. Wind and temperature data of IMD between 15 May and 24 September 2009 in the altitude range of 1–25 km have been used for the present study. Simultaneous ERA data of wind and temperature for the same period between the pressure levels of 1–1000 mb have been analyzed for 2-day wave activity. Appreciable amplitudes of the wave (~2–3 m s−1) could be observed in both IMD and ERA datasets of winds. The thermal amplitude maximum is ~1.5 K in the lower stratosphere (IMD). Amplitudes obtained from ERA data are found to be less than those obtained from IMD measurements. Maximum wind amplitudes (1.5–2 m s−1) are observed in the UTLS region and in the upper stratosphere between 35–45 km. Peak value of temperature oscillation in the upper stratosphere is ~1 K. Wavelet analyses show systematic bursts of QTDW during the summer solstice with a gap of ~5–8 days. The striking similarity between the results of IMD and ERA data can be appreciated. The squared-coherence values between the two datasets in terms of cross-spectral amplitudes are found to be highly significant for 2-day wave in the lower atmosphere.
Identidade pessoal e ética em Paul Ricoeur: da identidade narrativa à promessa e à responsabilidade
Authors: Reichert do Nascimento Cláudio
Published: January 2012

Cet article expose le problème de l’identité personnelle chez Paul Ricoeur, à partir de Temps et récit et Soi-même comme un autre, en abordant, succinctement, des positions philosophiques qui affirment ce que Ricoeur caracterise comme identité en tant que permanence dans le temps (mêmeté), au contraire de l’identité en tant que mutable et diverse dans le temps (ipséité), qui va à la rencontre de sa thèse de l’identité narrative. Ensuite, nous indiquons la limitation de la narrative pour rendre compte du problème de l’identité personnelle devant le possible effacement de soi-même dans le cadre narratif et persévérance dans le cadre éthique avec le concepte de promesse. Enfin, l’article est conclu avec l’exposition de l’approximation que Ricoeur réalise du concept de promesse en tant que speech act et comme pouvoir de promettre, et le rapport avec le concept de responsabilité qui découle de cela.
Afirmação originária e sabedoria prática na reflexão ética de Paul Ricœur
Authors: Portocarrero Maria Luísa
Published: January 2012

This paper´s aim is to outline the foundation of Paul Ricœur´s ethics, which we believe to be a hermeneutical experience of recognition of existence´s original claim, a thesis that he takes from his master Jean Nabert. Although the question of recognition appears only in the last work of  Ricœur, we hold that it is already present since the earliest works, particularly in The Symbolism of Evil, insofar as, through symbolic language, the contrasting experience of evil leads to the whole hermeneutical process of recognition and interpretation of an original affirmation, despite evil. The very theme of man´s capability, including the issue of self-esteem, shall be understood on the basis of this original affirmation, which reveals his plural condition in the plan of responsibility in the context of applied ethics.
GSTM1 and GSTP1 gene variants and the effect of air pollutants on lung function measures in South African children
Authors: Reddy Poovendhree , Naidoo Rajen N. , Robins Thomas G. , Mentz Graciela , Li Huiling , London Stephanie J. , Batterman Stuart
Published: January 2012

Background

Several genes are associated with an increased susceptibility to asthma, which may be exacerbated by ambient air pollution. These genes include GSTM1 (glutathione‐S‐transferase M1 gene) and GSTP1 (glutathione‐S‐transferase P1 gene), which may modulate the response to epithelial oxidative changes caused by air pollutant exposure. This study evaluated fluctuations in the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) in relation to lagged daily averages of ambient air pollutants (SO2, NO2, NO, and PM10) while considering genotype as an effect modifier.

Methods

A longitudinal cohort of 129 schoolchildren of African descent from Durban, South Africa was assessed. GSTM1 (null vs. present genotype) and GSTP1 (Ile105Val; AA → AG/GG) genotypes were determined using standard techniques. SO2, NO2, NO, and PM10 were measured continuously over a year using validated methods. The outcome was intraday variability in FEV1. Data were collected daily over a 3‐week period in each of four seasons (2004–2005).

Results

Among the children tested, 27% had the GSTM1 null genotype and 81% carried the GSTP1 G allele. Approximately 26 out 104 children (25%) showed evidence of bronchial hyperreactivity, 13% reported having symptoms in keeping with persistent asthma, and a further 25% reported symptoms of mild intermittent asthma. PM10 and SO2 levels were moderately high relative to international guidelines. Neither GSTM1 nor GSTP1 genotypes alone were significantly associated with FEV1 intraday variability. In models not including genotype, FEV1 variability was statistically significantly associated only with NO2 for 5‐day lags (% change in intraday variability in FEV1 per interquartile range = 1.59, CI 0.58, 2.61). The GSTP1 genotype modified the effect of 3 days prior 24‐hr average PM10 and increased FEV1 variability. A similar pattern was observed for lagged 3 day SO2 exposure (P interaction < 0.05). Adverse effects of these pollutants were limited to individuals carrying the G allele for this polymorphism.

Conclusion

Among this indigenous South African children cohort, the GSTP1 genotype modified the effects of ambient exposures to PM10 and SO2 and lung function. A plausible mechanism for these observed effects is decreased capacity to mount an effective response to oxidative stress associated with the GSTP1 AG + GG genotype. Am. J. Ind. Med. 55:1078–1086, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of the surface hydrolysis on the functionality of poly(ethylene terephthalate) fabric treated with nanotitanium dioxide
Authors: Hashemizad Shiva , Montazer Majid , Rashidi Abosaied
Published: January 2012

In this study, the polyester (PET) fabric was hydrolyzed with alkali to increase the surface activity and enhance the nano titanium dioxide (nano‐TiO2) adsorption to produce higher functionality. The PET fabric was first treated with sodium hydroxide along with cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide as a cationic surfactant and then dipped into an ultrasound bath containing nano‐TiO2followed by curing at high temperature. The weight loss, vertical wicking, and water droplet adsorption time were evaluated and are reported. The photocatalytic activity of TiO2nanoparticles deposited on the PET fabric was examined by the degradation of methylene blue as a model stain under daylight irradiation. The residual TiO2on the fabric surface after 1 and 10 successive washings was determined to indicate the washing durability of the finished fabric. Also, the UV protection was assessed by UV reflectance spectroscopy. The scanning electron microscopy pictures and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectra of some fabrics are also reported. The surface hydrolysis of the PET fabric with sodium hydroxide created some voids and hydrophilic groups on the fabric surface; this led to the higher adsorption of nano‐TiO2particles and enhanced the wettability, vertical wicking, and higher durability against repeated washings of the nano‐TiO2treated fabric. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
The Shrinking World of Innocent Ligands: Conventionaland Non‐Conventional Redox‐Active Ligands
Authors: Kaim Wolfgang
Published: January 2012

This essay for EurJIC's cluster issue on cooperative and redox non‐innocent ligands introduces the reader to redox‐active ligands, which range from the small archetypical NO+/•/– and O20/•–/2–systems via the classical 1,4‐dihetero‐1,3‐diene chelates (e.g. α‐diimine, dithiolene, or o‐quinone redox series) to π‐conjugated macrocycles. The increased attention paid recently to the redox activity of ligands in coordination chemistry has now prompted wider successful searches, resulting in the establishing of less‐conventional examples such as cyanide, carbon monoxide, thioethers, or acetylacetonate derivatives as non‐innocently behaving ligands. By considering situations with significantly covalent metal–ligand bonding, the cases of metal–oxo, metal–hydrido, and organometallic compounds will also be addressed, with a perspective on how pervasive non‐innocent ligand behavior is. The materials and reactivity potential of redox‐active ligands will be pointed out.
Time‐selective chemoprevention of vitamin E and selenium on esophageal carcinogenesis in rats: The possible role of nuclear factor kappaB signaling pathway
Authors: Yang Hui , Jia Xudong , Chen Xiaoxin , Yang Chung S. , Li Ning
Published: January 2012

Previous human intervention trial demonstrated that vitamin E (Ve) and selenium (Se) supplementation decreased esophageal cancer deaths among younger participants, but may have no effect or produce an opposite effect among older ones. In our study, we intended to mimic this human nutritional trial to determine the chemopreventive effects of Ve/Se supplementation at the early or late stage of esophageal carcinogenesis in rats. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) was induced in Fischer 344 rats with N‐nitrosomethylbenzylamine (NMBzA, 0.35 mg/kg BW, s.c., three times per week for 5 weeks). The rats were maintained on a modified AIN‐93M diet with low levels of Ve/Se or supplemented with high levels of Ve/Se at different stages. At Week 25, the number and volume of visible tumors, the numbers of dysplasia and ESCC were significantly lower in rats of supplementation during the early stage (Group C) or during the entire experimental period (Group E), but not during the late stage (Group D). Ve/Se supplementation at the early stage also significantly decreased cell proliferation, nuclear factor kappaB (NFκB) activation, protein and mRNA expression of cyclooxygenase 2 and 5‐lipoxygenase and biosynthesis of prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene B4 during the carcinogenesis of rat esophagus. Our results demonstrated that the chemopreventive efficacy of Ve/Se supplementation on NMBzA‐induced esophageal cancer is time selective and that supplementation during the early stage is clearly effective but probably ineffective during the late stage of carcinogenesis. NFκB signaling pathway activation and aberrant arachidonic acid metabolism might be the underlying mechanism.
MED12 mutations in uterine fibroids—their relationship to cytogenetic subgroups
Authors: Markowski Dominique Nadine , Bartnitzke Sabine , Löning Thomas , Drieschner Norbert , Helmke Burkhard Maria , Bullerdiek Jörn
Published: January 2012

Recurrent chromosomal alterations are found in roughly 20% of all uterine fibroids but in the majority cytogenetic changes are lacking. Recently, mutations of the gene mediator subcomplex 12 (MED12) have been detected in a majority of fibroids but no information is available whether or not they co‐occur with cytogenetic subtypes as, e.g., rearrangements of the genes encoding high mobility group AT‐hook (HMGA) proteins. In a total of 80 cytogenetically characterized fibroids from 50 patients, we were not only able to confirm the frequent occurrence of MED12 mutations but also to stratify two mutually exclusive pathways of leiomyomagenesis with either rearrangements of HMGA2 reflected by clonal chromosome abnormalities affecting 12q14∼15 or by mutations affecting exon 2 of MED12. On average the latter mutations were associated with a significantly smaller tumor size. However, G>A transitions of nucleotides c.130 or c.131 correlate with a significantly larger size of the fibroids compared to other MED12 mutations thus explaining the high prevalence of the former mutations among clinically detectable fibroids. Interestingly, fibroids with MED12 mutations expressed significantly higher levels of the gene encoding wingless‐type MMTV integration site family, member 4 (WNT4). Based on these findings and data from the literature, we hypothesize that estrogen and the mutated MED12 cooperate in activating the Wnt pathway which in turn activates β‐catenin known to cause leiomyoma‐like lesions in a mouse model. The occurrence of a “fibroid‐type mutation” in a rare histologic subtype of endometrial polyps suggests that this mechanism is not confined to uterine leiomyomas.
A discriminative Ramachandran potential of mean force aimed at minimizing secondary structure bias
Authors: Koppole Sampath , Schaefer Michael
Published: January 2012

We introduce PMF*, a novel potential of mean force (PMF) for the Ramachandran ϕ/Ψ dihedral plot of the 20 standard amino acids and assess its relevance to the conformation of polypeptides by scoring structures in the protein data bank and decoy datasets. The new energy function is a linear combination of the conventional, unreferenced PMF and the ΔPMF relative to the free energy of all amino acids in the parameterization set of structures, effectively removing their respective biases toward α‐helix and β‐strand. It is shown that low‐resolution crystal structures, NMR structures, and theoretical models have on average significantly higher energies than high‐resolution crystal structures; also PMF* is more discriminative for structure quality than the individual PMF and ΔPMF energy functions. PMF* may be well suited for use as a restraint energy term in the refinement of experimental structures and theoretical models. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Degradation of acetonitrile in eluent solutions for [18F]fluoride PET chemistry: impact on radiosynthesis of [18F]FACBC and [18F]FDG
Authors: Svadberg Anders , Wickstrøm Torild , Hjelstuen Ole Kristian
Published: January 2012

In [18F]fluoride chemistry, an eluent solution containing a weak aqueous base is used to release [18F]fluoride after adsorption on an anion exchange resin. Traditionally, the eluent solution is freshly prepared, but modern PET tracer manufacturers may utilize the benefits of preparing bulk solutions or prefilled vials for storage. We discovered that typical eluent solutions containing kryptofix and K2CO3 in aqueous acetonitrile degraded upon storage. Acetonitrile will at alkaline pH hydrolyse to acetamide and ammonium acetate. Acetate may serve as a competing nucleophile to [18F]fluoride. Eluent solutions used in the synthesis of [18F]FACBC and [18F]FDG generated mg/ml levels of acetamide and ammonium acetate during storage at room temperature or above. The synthesis of [18F]FACBC was prone to eluent degradation, with gradual reduction of radiochemical yield (RCY) from 62.5% to 44.7% during 12 months of storage at 30 °C. The synthesis of [18F]FDG was only affected when the eluent was stored at 50 °C, reducing the RCY from 86.8% to 66.7% after 3 months of storage. For degradation effects to be avoided, an alternative eluent solution with no acetonitrile was investigated in the synthesis of [18F]FACBC. A methanol‐based eluent was successfully made, showing no degradation and unchanged RCY after 6 months of storage at 50 °C. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Purification of diamine oxidase and its properties in germinated fava bean (Vicia faba L.)
Authors: Yang Runqiang , Chen Hui , Han Yongbin , Gu Zhenxin
Published: January 2012

Background: γ‐Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a non‐protein amino acid with bioactive functions for human health. Diamine oxidase (DAO, EC 1.4.3.6) is one of the key enzymes for GABA formation. In the present study, this enzyme was purified from 5 day germinated fava bean and its properties were investigated in vitro.

Results: The molecular mass of the enzyme estimated by Sephadex G‐100 gel filtration was 121 kDa. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) displayed a single band at a molecular mass of 52 kDa. The enzyme had optimal activity at 40 °C and retained its activity after being incubated at 30 °C for 30 min. It showed higher activity at pH 6.5 than at other pH values. The enzyme was significantly inhibited by Mg2+, Cu2+, Fe3+, aminoguanidine, ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid (EGTA), ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid disodium salt (EDTA‐Na2), L‐cysteine and β‐mercaptoethanol. The Km value of DAO was 0.23 mmol L−1 for putrescine and 0.96 mmol L−1 for spermidine. However, the enzyme did not degrade spermine.

Conclusion: DAO from germinated fava bean was purified. The optimal reaction temperature and pH of the enzyme were mild. The enzyme had higher affinity to putrescine than to spermidine and spermine. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Stopover duration of fall‐migrating dabbling ducks
Authors: O'Neal Benjamin J. , Stafford Joshua D. , Larkin Ronald P.
Published: January 2012

The amount of time migrating birds spend at stopover sites, or stopover duration, partially determines an individual's access to resources, the environmental conditions encountered, and the exposure to predation, which in turn affect survival and fecundity. As such, migratory behaviors such as stopover duration can have a considerable effect on populations of migrants and plans for their conservation. This is especially true for migrant waterfowl, which are explicitly conserved through Joint Venture (JV) partnerships under the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. Although waterfowl are one of the most heavily studied taxa, little is known about their stopover behavior due to the scope of migration. Consequently, conservation plans of many mid‐migration JVs either omit estimates of stopover duration or rely on antiquated data to estimate energetic requirements. We used weather surveillance radar to identify and enumerate ducks emigrating from an important stopover area in central Illinois. By using radar data in combination with data from weekly aerial inventories, we estimated an average stopover duration for fall‐migrating dabbling ducks (tribe Anatini) of 28 days (SD = 12) over 8 years (1996, 1997, 2003, 2005–2009). Our estimate was similar to the historical estimate of 28 days (1940–1966), which serves as the primary reference for the Upper Mississippi River Great Lakes Region JV conservation plan. In addition to a corroborative mean, we also found considerable inter‐annual variation in stopover duration. Estimated annual stopover duration was correlated positively with an index of annual foraging habitat quality (Spearman's rank correlation;rs = 0.83), suggesting ducks may have assessed local conditions and adjusted the spatiotemporal course of fall migration. If the stopover behavior of fall‐migrating ducks is flexible and forage‐dependent, it is possible ducks allocate their time among sites in a somewhat ideal and optimal fashion, which could substantially affect the way resources are allocated within the spatial context of a JV region. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Hot moments and hot spots: Identifying factors explaining temporal and spatial variation in turtle road mortality
Authors: Cureton James C. , Deaton Raelynn
Published: January 2012

Many conservation strategies focus on reducing the risk of road mortality. Turtles, which are highly susceptible to road mortality, exhibit life history traits that increase their vulnerability to population declines because of road mortality. Here, we use Akaike's Information Criterion to identify road mortality hot moments and hot spots for 5 turtle species (Chelydra serpentina, Pseudemys concinna, Terrapene carolina, Terrapene ornata, and Trachemys scripta). We tested 2 hypotheses: 1) Hot moments coincide with the breeding season of each species and 2) hot spots are associated with the habitat where each species is most commonly observed. As predicted, breeding season (May–Jun) explained most of the temporal variation in road mortality for all 5 species. Over 98% of all observed road mortality occurred during this 2‐month span. For C. serpentina and T. ornata, spatial variation in road mortality was best explained by the distance to the nearest water body, whereas distance to the nearest forest was the best model for T. scripta. The null model ranked best for P. concinna and T. carolina, suggesting none of our spatial models sufficiently explained mortality patterns of these 2 species. These results, coupled with previous studies, suggest that hot moments may be consistently associated with the breeding season. However, hot spots may be species‐specific, requiring conservation efforts to be targeted at certain species. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Disturbance regimes and mountain plover habitat in shortgrass steppe: Large herbivore grazing does not substitute for prairie dog grazing or fire
Authors: Augustine David J. , Derner Justin D.
Published: January 2012

Restoring historical disturbance regimes to enhance habitat for grassland birds can conflict with livestock production goals and has been controversial because of uncertainty in the frequency and pattern of different disturbances prior to European settlement. We studied nesting habitat for the mountain plover (Charadrius montanus) in relation to prescribed fire, grazing by large herbivores (cattle), and grazing by black‐tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) in the shortgrass steppe of northeastern Colorado. Breeding mountain plovers primarily occurred on black‐tailed prairie dog colonies or areas burned during the previous dormant season. Vegetation surrounding mountain plover nests and foraging locations was characterized by a fine‐scale mosaic of prostrate (<4 cm tall) vegetated patches interspersed with >35% bare soil in a given square meter, with this fine‐scale pattern distributed over a broad (>100‐m radius) area. Mountain plovers rarely occupied grassland lacking prairie dogs or recent fire, but those that did selected sites with similar vegetation height and bare soil exposure as sites on burns and prairie dog colonies. Vegetation structure at mountain plover‐occupied sites was also similar to random sites on burns and prairie dog colonies, but differed substantially from sites managed only with cattle. Intensive cattle grazing at twice the recommended stocking rate during spring (Mar–May) or summer (May–Oct) for 6 years produced significantly less bare soil than burns and prairie dog colonies, particularly following years with average or above‐average precipitation. Thus, intensive cattle grazing did not substitute for prairie dog grazing or fire in terms of effects on vegetation structure and mountain plover habitat. Both prescribed burning and increased size and distribution of black‐tailed prairie dog colonies appear to be effective and complementary means to manage for mountain plover breeding habitat in shortgrass steppe. Provision of mountain plover habitat has tradeoffs with traditional management for livestock production. Thus, managers need to clearly define desired outcomes for management to provide multiple ecosystem goods and services. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Kinetic studies of reactions of 4‐nitrobenzofuroxan with carbanions derived from benzyltriflones in methanol
Authors: Asghar Basim H.
Published: January 2012

This paper reports the rate measurements for the reactions of carbanions derived from benzyltriflones, 2, with 4‐nitrobenzofuroxan, 4, in methanol, to give anionic σ‐adducts. 1H NMR studies in DMSO‐d6 indicate that the products formed by the reaction of 2 and 4 in the presence of triethylamine are consistent with the products formed by the elimination of trifluoromethylsulfinic acid from σ‐adducts, initially formed by a carbanion attack at the 5 position of 4. The low value of β, which is the slope of the linear plot of log k5 versus pKa, provides evidence for the high steric requirements of the benzyltriflone anions. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 44: 546–554, 2012
Donor property of cobalt(II) Schiff base complexes toward triphenyltin(IV)‐chloride: A kinetic study
Authors: Asadi Zahra , Asadi Mozaffar , Mosalanezhad Fatemeh
Published: January 2012

In this study, some cobalt(II)tetraaza Schiff base complexes were used as donors in coordinating to triphenyltin(IV)chloride as acceptors; the kinetics and mechanism of the adduct formation were studied spectrophotometrically. Co(II)tetraaza Schiff base complexes used were [Co(amaen)][N,N′‐ethylene‐bis‐(o‐amino‐α‐methylbenzylideneiminato)cobalt(II)] (1), [Co(appn)] [N,N′‐1,2‐propylene‐bis‐(o‐amino‐α‐phenylbenzylideneiminato)cobalt(II)] (2), [Co(ampen)] [N,N′‐ethylene‐bis‐(o‐amino‐α‐phenylbenzylideneiminato)cobalt‐(II)] (3), [Co(cappn)][N,N′‐1,2‐proylene‐bis‐(5‐chloro‐o‐amino‐α‐phenylbenzylideneiminato)cobalt(II)] (4), and [Co(campen)] [N,N′‐ethylene‐bis‐(5‐chloro‐o‐amino‐α‐phenylbenzylid‐eneiminato)cobalt(II)] (5). The reactivity trend of the complexes in interaction with triphenyltin(IV)chloride was Co(amaen) > Co(appn) > Co(ampen) > Co(cappn) > Co(campen). The linear plots of kobs versus the molar concentration of the triphenyltin(IV)chloride, a high span of the second‐order rate constant k2 values, and large negative values of ΔS≠ and low ΔH≠ values suggest an associative (A) mechanism for the acceptor–donor adduct formation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 44: 635–640, 2012
Diagnostic significance of blood eosinophil count in eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps in Chinese adults
Authors: Hu Ying , Cao Ping‐Ping , Liang Geng‐Tian , Cui Yong‐Hua , Liu Zheng
Published: January 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Over half of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) patients in China show noneosinophilic inflammation. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical characteristics of eosinophilic and noneosinophilic CRSwNP and to identify the predictors of eosinophilic CRSwNP.

Study Design:

A retrospective study.

Methods:

There were 155 CRSwNP patients enrolled in the Tongji cohort. Eosinophilic CRSwNP was diagnosed according to our previously published histologic criterion. The demographic and clinical features were compared between eosinophilic and noneosinophilic CRSwNP. Factors associated with eosinophilic CRSwNP were determined with regression analysis, and optimal cutoff points of the predictors were determined by a receiver operating characteristic curve. The optimal cutoff points of the predictors were validated in an independent group of 35 CRSwNP patients referred to as the Taizhou cohort.

Results:

A male preponderance, a higher prevalence of smoking and atopy, and higher peripheral blood eosinophil absolute count and percentage and blood IgE levels were found in eosinophilic CRSwNP compared with noneosinophilic CRSwNP. Peripheral eosinophil absolute count and percentage were independently and significantly associated with eosinophilic CRSwNP. An absolute blood eosinophil count ≥0.215 × 109/L yielded a sensitivity of 74.2% and a specificity of 86.5%, and a blood eosinophil percentage ≥3.05% yielded a sensitivity of 80.3% and a specificity of 75.3% for the diagnosis of eosinophilic CRSwNP in the Tongji cohort. The validation study in the Taizhou cohort revealed a lower sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusions:

Eosinophilic and noneosinophilic CRSwNP displayed significant differences in certain clinical features. Peripheral blood eosinophil count could distinguish eosinophilic and noneosinophilic CRSwNP in Chinese adults.
Four‐year outcomes of palatal implants for primary snoring treatment: A prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Rotenberg Brian W. , Luu Kimberly
Published: January 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the long‐term effectiveness of palatal implants as the treatment of primary snoring.

Study Design:

Prospective longitudinal cohort study.

Methods:

This study compared snoring outcomes before and after soft palate implantation for patients diagnosed with primary snoring (no sleep apnea). Snoring severity was obtained by the subjects' sleep partners on a 10‐point Likert scale. A paired Student t test compared the mean scale values preoperatively at week 52 and at the current 4‐year follow‐up. Body mass index for each patient was also compared to evaluate for any significant confounders.

Results:

Data were obtained from 23 patients out of 26 who were followed for the full study term. The follow‐up time was on average 4 years following palatal implantation. A statistically (P < .016) and clinically significant improvement in the snoring scale was noted when comparing snoring severity between the preoperative and 4‐year period and between the 52‐week and 4‐year scores. Although statistically significant improvement was found between the preoperative period and 52 weeks, there was a clinical deterioration in snoring scale scores between 52 weeks and 4 years. The mean (standard deviation) preoperative score was 9.5 (0.5), mean week‐52 score was 5.0 (1.6), and mean 4‐year score was 7.0 (1.8). Body mass index did not change through the observation interval.

Conclusions:

Soft palate implantation is a possible surgical technique with which to attempt to achieve subjective improvement of primary snoring severity. Subjective improvement, however, deteriorates significantly over time, and is only minimally sustained at 4 years postoperatively. This study provides new information on long‐term palatal implant effectiveness.
Common genetic variants in TERT contribute to risk of cervical cancer in a Chinese population
Authors: Wang Sumin , Wu Jiangping , Hu Lingmin , Ding Chenyue , Kan Yanjing , Shen Yan , Chen Xiaojun , Shen Hongbing , Guo Xirong , Hu Zhibin
Published: January 2012

Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of TERT rs2736098, rs2736100, and CLPTM1L rs402710 at 5p15.33 are significantly associated with risk of a spectrum of cancers. However, cervical cancer has been rarely evaluated. In this study, we genotyped the three SNPs in a case–control study with 1,033 cervical cancer cases and 1,053 cancer‐free controls in a Chinese population. Logistic regression analyses showed that the two TERT SNPs both significantly associated with cervical cancer risk in the recessive model (rs2736098, AA vs. AG/GG: adjusted OR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.06–1.72; rs2736100, CC vs. AC/AA: adjusted OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.11–1.73). However, no association was found between CLPTM1L rs402710 and cervical cancer. These results suggest that genetic variants in 5p15.33, especially in TERT, may be markers for susceptibility to cervical cancer. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The eclectic theory of international production: A case study of the international hotel industry
Authors: Dunning John H. , McQueen Matthew
Published: January 2012

This paper presents comprehensive data on the growth, structure and forms of involvement of multinational enterprises in the international hotel industry, and uses this data to provide empirical support for the eclectic theory of international production. Our understanding of the international hotel industry is that the ownership of a hotel often has the characteristics of portfolio investment and that the owners may have little knowledge of hotel operations. In these circumstances they will invariably employ a professional management company to run the hotel under a long term contract providing them with full control over the operation of the hotel. A particular feature of this paper is therefore to distinguish between, what we term, ‘equity‐based control’ and ‘contract‐based control’ of the enterprise and to point out the implications of this distinction for the analysis of the multinational enterprise.
Cost‐benefit evaluation of a new technology for treatment of peptic ulcer disease
Authors: Paterson Morton L.
Published: January 2012

Psychosocial benefit resists monetary expression. However, reduction in costs, with no loss of benefits assumed, improves a cost‐benefit ratio. The effect of cimetidine on the costs of ulcer has been widely studied. Randomized clinical trials show reductions in surgery and work loss among cimetidine‐treated patients versus placebo controls. In the community, time series studies have documented drops in ulcer surgery, averaging about 25% below the expected trend line, following marketing introduction of the drug. These, plus a cross‐sectional study of Medicaid patients with and without use of cimetidine, indicate that the drug has reduced the net direct costs of ulcer disease.
Corporate control and management compensation: Evidence on the agency problem
Authors: Dyl Edward A.
Published: January 2012

This paper finds a relationship between management compensation and corporate control consistent with the hypothesis that in closely held companies major shareholders engage in monitoring activities that reduce the residual loss portion of agency costs. This result is incosistent with Fama's (1980) suggestion that the wage determination process in managerial labor markets may resolve the agency problem.
Unplanned buying and in‐store stimuli in supermarkets
Authors: Abratt Russell , Goodey Stephen Donald
Published: January 2012

Manufacturers and retailers in industrialized countries spend large sums on advertising and/or in‐store promotion in the hope of increasing sales of their merchandise through ‘impulse’ buying. Results are reported in this paper of the unplanned buying behaviour of 450 consumers in 15 major supermarkets in South Africa compared with similar studies in the United States and the United Kingdom. The findings indicate that unplanned buying is higher in the United States than in South Africa, but that the importance of in‐store stimuli holds true across cultures. Analysis of other variables such as brand loyalty, specific outlet, and presence of a shopping list is also reported on a cross‐cultural basis.
Timing of the administration of suramin treatment after muscle injury
Authors: Nozaki Masahiro , Ota Shusuke , Terada Satoshi , Li Yong , Uehara Kenji , Gharaibeh Burhan , Fu Freddie H. , Huard Johnny
Published: January 2012

Introduction:

It has been reported that suramin treatment can improve muscle healing; however, details about optimizing the dosing requirements remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal timing of suramin administration and investigate the effects it had on the expression of myostatin, follistatin, and muscle vascularity after muscle injury.

Methods:

Contusion injured muscles of mice were treated with suramin at 1, 2, or 3 weeks post‐injury and evaluated histologically and physiologically at 1, 2, and 10 days after injection.

Results:

Suramin treatment initiated at 2 weeks post‐injury was observed to promote muscle regeneration and muscle strength, and to decrease fibrosis. Suramin reduced myostatin expression and increased follistatin expression and vascularity in injured skeletal muscle.

Conclusions:

Suramin's positive effect on muscle regeneration is thought to be due to its enhancement of follistatin expression which increases neoangiogenesis and inhibits myostatin's promotion of fibrosis. Muscle Nerve 46: 70–79, 2012
GDNF released from microspheres enhances nerve regeneration after delayed repair
Authors: Wood Matthew D. , Kim Howard , Bilbily Alex , Kemp Stephen W.P. , Lafontaine Christine , Gordon Tessa , Shoichet Molly S. , Borschel Gregory H.
Published: January 2012

Introduction: Delays in surgical repair following nerve transection produce progressively inferior motor nerve regeneration. Regeneration can be improved with delivery of exogenous growth factor. We developed a delivery system that could be applied at the nerve repair site to deliver growth factors locally to regenerating nerve. Methods: Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) microspheres containing glial‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) suspended within fibrin were developed into a delivery system for local application surrounding nerve at a repair site in an experimental rat model. Results: The system containing GDNF remained at the injury site for up to 2 weeks and improved motor nerve regeneration following chronic axotomy and denervation. Conclusions: Based on the positive outcome of the delivery system, we plan to study the delivery system over longer time courses of release and nerve regeneration. Muscle Nerve 46: 122–124, 2012
Prescriptive contraceptive use among isotretinoin users in the Netherlands in comparison with non‐users: a drug utilisation study
Authors: Crijns Hubertina J.M.J. , van Rein Nienke , Gispen‐de Wied Christine C. , Straus Sabine M. , de Jong‐van den Berg Lolkje T.W.
Published: January 2012

Purpose

To assess the compliance with the isotretinoin Pregnancy Prevention Programme (PPP) by evaluating the use of prescribed contraceptives among isotretinoin users. The PPP contains a requirement for the use of contraceptive methods for women of childbearing potential.

Methods

A drug utilisation study was performed using data from a drug prescription database (containing Dutch community pharmacy data) covering a population of 500 000 patients. Contraceptive use in female isotretinoin users and in a reference group of female non‐isotretinoin users (aged 15–49 years) was compared using data from 1999 until 2006 in 2‐year periods. Descriptive statistics were used.

Results

Of the female isotretinoin users (n = 651), 52%–54% filled prescriptions on contraceptives in strict accordance to the PPP, used before, during, and after discontinuation of isotretinoin, compared with 39%–46% in the reference group. A more liberal approach of a minimum of one prescription for a contraceptive method showed 61%–64% use of contraceptives among isotretinoin users. Similar patterns were seen when data were broken down in age groups. Furthermore, a higher proportion of female patients using isotretinoin prescribed by general practitioners used prescribed contraceptives compared with those receiving isotretinoin by specialists.

Conclusion

Compliance with the contraceptive use according to a PPP for a teratogenic drug such as isotretinoin is 52%–64%, which is lower than anticipated. Reasons for the low compliance will need to be clarified before further measures can be taken. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integration of vole management in boreal silvicultural practices
Authors: Huitu Otso , Rousi Matti , Henttonen Heikki
Published: January 2012

Voles of the genera Microtus and Myodes are widespread and among the most abundant of small mammal species in the boreal zone of the Northern Hemisphere. They are keystone herbivore species in northern ecosystems, and they have profound impacts on both higher and lower trophic levels. Voles are also major silvicultural pests, damaging millions of tree seedlings in years of peak abundance. Prevention of vole damage to silviculture has proven to be very difficult owing to the ubiquity of both suitable vole habitat and potential damage sites across landscapes. The degree of damage inflicted by voles on seedling stands is largely, but not solely, determined by prevailing vole densities, which often fluctuate in 3–4 year population cycles. Silvicultural practices related to site habitat manipulation and/or choice and rearing of seedling material may also greatly influence the severity of vole damage to seedlings. The manipulation of these practices is currently at the forefront of methods potentially applicable to control vole damage in boreal forests. This paper reviews current evidence for the efficacy and present recommendations for further development and application of these methods to mitigate vole damage to seedling stands in boreal silviculture. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Density functional theory study of ultrasmall diameter (2,2) boron nitride, silicon carbide, and carbon nanotubes
Authors: Fakhrabad Davoud Vahedi , Movlarooy Tayebeh , Shahtahmassebi Nasser
Published: January 2012

We present a first principles calculation on the electronic structure and optical properties of ultrasmall‐diameter (2,2) boron nitride, silicon carbide, and carbon nanotubes (BNNT, SiCNT, and CNT) by using full potential linear augmented plane wave (FP‐LAPW) and pseudo potential plane wave (PP‐PW) methods. The atomic geometries of all considered models are optimized. Calculations of optical spectra are performed under electric fields polarized both parallel and perpendicular with respect to the nanotube (NT) axis. Our results show that the dielectric function is anisotropic and it is revealed that (2,2) SiCNT would be better dielectric material than (2,2) BNNT. We have calculated the first, second and third optical transitions for the considered models. The value of the optical gap for (2,2) BNNT is obtained much larger than that of (2,2) SiCNT and (2,2) CNT. The results show that contrary to the (2,2) CNT being metallic, the (2,2) BNNT, and (2,2) SiCNT are wide indirect gap semiconductors. We also present the energy loss function; in this case the intertube interactions play an important role with respect to the optical spectroscopy. Our results revealed that unlike the dielectric function, the calculated energy loss function show rather weak anisotropy.
Reduced fragmentation in liquid injection field desorption/ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry by use of helium for the thermalization of molecular ions
Authors: Bernhard Linden H. , Gross Jürgen H.
Published: January 2012

RATIONALE

To exploit the softness of liquid injection field desorption/ionization (LIFDI), the molecular ions, M+•, need to be transferred from their origin at the field emitter through the mass analyzer without disrupting their integrity. To preserve the molecular ions, ion‐activating events like collisions must therefore be avoided. In hybrid quadrupole Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT‐ICR) mass spectrometers, however, multiple ion‐guiding and ion‐trapping events occur prior to mass analysis. The effects thereof compromised initial spectra from a LIFDI and electrospray ionization (ESI) combination (LIFDI‐ESI) ion source and, thus, called for refined experimental conditions.

METHODS

A hybrid quadrupole FT‐ICR instrument equipped with a new LIFDI‐ESI combination ion source was used to obtain LIFDI spectra of polystyrene 1050, of 2,3,4‐tridodecyloxybenzaldehyde, and of sewing machine oil as well as a field ionization (FI) spectrum of pentafluoroiodobenzene. The abundance of molecular ions, M+•, was optimized, in particular by variation of the trapping conditions inside the instrument's accumulation RF‐hexapole ion trap.

RESULTS

Ion–buffer gas collisions in the instrument's accumulation RF‐hexapole ion trap were detrimental to the easy‐to‐fragment molecular ions of hydrocarbon species, whereas more robust even‐electron ions were not affected. Exchanging the instrument's standard supply of argon buffer gas for helium resulted in a remarkable improvement. Together with further adjustments of potentials applied along the ion transfer path, hydrocarbon species could be analyzed.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of helium buffer gas remarkably improved LIFDI spectra, because the loss of molecular ions by dissociation during transfer from the LIFDI source into the ICR cell was significantly reduced. Hydrocarbon species could be analyzed while fragmentation of ions was avoided for the most part. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The gas‐phase ligand exchange reactions of cobalt and zinc acetylacetonate, hexafluoroacetylacetonate, and trifluorotrimethylacetylacetonate complexes
Authors: Hunter Gerald O. , Leskiw Brian D.
Published: January 2012

The gas‐phase ligand exchange reactions between Co(II) and Zn(II) complexes containing the acetylacetonate (acac), hexafluoroacetylacetonate (hfac), and trifluorotrimethylacetylacetonate (tftm) ligands were investigated using a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The gas‐phase mixed ligand products of [Cu(acac)(tftm)]+, [Ni(acac)(tftm)]+, [Cu(hfac)(tftm)]+, and [Ni(hfac)(tftm)]+ were formed following the co‐sublimation of either homo‐metal or hetero‐metal precursors and are reported herein for the first time. The fragmentation patterns of these mixed ligand species along with those of Cu(tftm)2 and Ni(tftm)2 are also presented. The collision cell of the instrument was utilized to examine the gas‐phase reactions between mass‐selected ions and specific neutral target compounds. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ThSi2 Type Ytterbium Disilicide and its Analogues YbTxSi2–x (T = Cr, Fe, Co)
Authors: Peter Sebastian C. , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: January 2012

YbSi2 and the derivatives YbTxSi2–x (T = Cr, Fe, Co) crystallizing in the α‐ThSi2 structure type were obtained as single crystals from reactions run in liquid indium. All silicides were investigated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, I41/amd space group and the lattice constants are: a = 3.9868(6) Å and c = 13.541(3) Å for YbSi2, a = 4.0123(6) Å and c = 13.542(3) Å for YbCr0.27Si1.73, a = 4.0142(6) Å and c = 13.830(3) Å for YbCr0.71Si1.29, a = 4.0080(6) Å and c = 13.751(3) Å for YbFe0.34Si1.66, and a = 4.0036(6) Å, c = 13.707(3) Å for YbCo0.21Si1.79. YbSi2 and YbTxSi2–x compounds are polar intermetallics with three‐dimensional Si and M (T+Si) polyanion sub‐networks, respectively, filled with ytterbium atoms. The degree of substitution of transition metal at the silicon site is signficant and leads to changes in the average bond lengths and bond angles substantially.