bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slug Test in Confined Aquifers, the Over‐Damped Case: Quasi‐Steady Flow Analysis
Authors: Koussis Antonis D. , Akylas Evangelos
Published: September 2011

In the great majority of slug tests performed in wells fully penetrating confined geologic formations, and for over‐damped conditions, the response data are evaluated with the transient‐flow model of Cooper et al. (1967) when the radial hydraulic conductivity Kr and the coefficient of specific storage Ss are to be estimated. That particular analytical solution, however, is computationally involved and awkward to use. Thus, groundwater professionals often use a few pre‐prepared type‐curves to fit the data by a rough matching procedure, visually or computationally. On the other hand, the method of Hvorslev (1951), which assumes the flow to be quasi‐steady, is much simpler but yields only Kr estimates. In this work, we develop a complete quasi‐steady flow model that includes a storage balance inside the aquifer and allows estimating Kr and Ss simultaneously, through matching of the well response data to a type‐curve. The new model approximates the model of Cooper et al. closely and has the practical advantage that its solution type‐curves are generated easily using an electronic spreadsheet, so that the optimal fit of data by a type‐curve can be readily automated.
X‐Ray Crystal Structure of Bone Marrow Kinase in the X Chromosome: A Tec Family Kinase
Authors: Muckelbauer Jodi , Sack John S. , Ahmed Nazia , Burke James , Chang ChiehYing Y. , Gao Mian , Tino Joseph , Xie Dianlin , Tebben Andrew J.
Published: September 2011

Bone marrow kinase in the X chromosome, a member of the Tec family of tyrosine kinases, plays a role in both monocyte/macrophage trafficking as well as cytokine secretion. Although the structures of Tec family kinases Bruton’s tyrosine kinase and IL‐2‐inducible T‐cell kinase are known, the crystal structures of other Tec family kinases have remained elusive. We report the X‐ray crystal structures of bone marrow kinase in the X chromosome in complex with dasatinib at 2.4 Å resolution and PP2 at 1.9 Å resolution. The bone marrow kinase in the X chromosome structures reveal a typical kinase protein fold; with well‐ordered protein conformation that includes an open/extended activation loop and a stabilized DFG‐motif rendering the kinase in an inactive conformation. Dasatinib and PP2 bind to bone marrow kinase in the X chromosome in the ATP binding pocket and display similar binding modes to that observed in other Tec and Src protein kinases. The bone marrow kinase in the X chromosome structures identify conformational elements of the DFG‐motif that could potentially be utilized to design potent and/or selective bone marrow kinase in the X chromosome inhibitors.
Self‐Rated Health and the “First Move” Around Retirement: A Longitudinal Study of Older Americans
Authors: Johnson Nan E.
Published: September 2011

Purpose: I examine whether less favorable self‐rated health raises the risk of outmigration more for young‐old adults (aged 53‐63 at the start of the 10‐year longitudinal study in 1994) in nonmetro than metro counties and increases the odds that both groups of outmigrants will choose metro over nonmetro destinations. Finally, I examine whether nonmetro outmigrants are more likely than metro outmigrants to cite a health concern or a desire to get closer to relatives or friends as a reason for the migration.

Methods: I use the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) to track the main residences of nonmetro and metro older adults from 1994‐2003. With a discrete‐time Event History Analysis, I assess the joint effects of nonmetro/metro residence in 1994 and self‐rated health (updated at each biennial wave) upon the risk of a first migration. Those who migrated were asked to recall why.

Findings: At worse levels of self‐rated health, the odds of remaining in a nonmetro county of residence drop in favor of migrating to another nonmetro county. Among migrants, the worse the self‐rated health, the higher the odds of within‐type migration (nonmetro‐nonmetro and metro‐metro) over cross‐type migration (nonmetro‐metro and metro‐nonmetro). The percentages of migrants citing a health concern or a desire to live closer to relatives or friends as a reason for migration do not differ by county type of origin.

Conclusions: An implication for rural health policy is that young‐old adults with worse self‐rated health tend to remain in nonmetro areas, even when they migrate.
The importance of an extended preoperative trial of BAHA in unilateral sensorineural hearing loss: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Pennings R.J.E. , Gulliver M. , Morris D.P.
Published: September 2011

Clin. Otolaryngol. 2011, 36, 442–449

Objectives:  The influence of an extended preoperative trial of bone‐anchored hearing aid (BAHA) and headband on the decision to proceed with surgery in cases of unilateral sensorineural hearing loss is studied.

Design:  In this prospective study, the headband was introduced after assessment confirmed suitable candidacy. Those who had an initially favourable response to the headband trial were encouraged to complete a 2‐week home trial of device and headband. Patients were asked to pay special attention to situations where they perceived high demands on their hearing, e.g. at the dinner table, in the car, walking outside etc. Counselling regarding the BAHA placement, the need for daily care of the implant site and the financial implications of acquiring the device was also given.

Setting:  Tertiary university hospital.

Participants:  Patients with unilateral sensorineural hearing loss, fulfilling criteria for BAHA surgery, with favourable response to initial ‘office trial’ of headband.

Main outcome measures:  After 2‐week home trial, BAHA and headband were returned with a statement of the patient’s intentions.

Results:  Sixteen of 50 (32%) patients who expressed definite interest in BAHA surgery after a positive introduction to the headband in the office did not wish to proceed to surgery having completed a more thorough 2‐week trial of device at home. Most patients cited a failure of the device to meet their hearing requirements. Subsequently, we found further attrition with nine more patients (18%) deciding at a still later date, not to proceed with surgery. Ultimately, just 25 of 50 (50%) of our initially enthusiastic group chose not to proceed to surgery. In the group who did proceed, there were no non‐users.

Conclusions:  We propose the importance of an extended preoperative trial where BAHA is considered in the rehabilitation of unilateral sensorineural hearing loss. The trial may foster more realistic expectations of device performance in this challenging group. A ‘cooling‐off’ period before surgery also appears to lead to further attrition with the ultimate reward of no non‐users in those proceeding to surgery.
γH2Ax: Biomarker of Damage or Functional Participant in DNA Repair “All that Glitters Is not Gold!”
Authors: Cleaver James E.
Published: September 2011

The phosphorylation of H2Ax on its S139 site, γH2Ax, is important for the assembly of repair complexes at DNA double strand breaks (DSBs). The formation and functional role of γH2Ax after other kinds of DNA damage, especially UV light, where DSBs are rare, is less clear. Following UV light in the UVB and UVC ranges, complex distributions of γH2Ax can be identified, quite unlike the discrete enumerable foci seen after ionizing radiation. Several distinct distributions of γH2Ax occur: a low level nuclear‐wide distribution of γH2Ax occurs during nucleotide excision repair; irregular focal distributions occur at arrested replication forks; high intensity nuclear‐wide γH2Ax occurs in association with S‐phase apoptosis. The intensity and distributions of γH2Ax vary according to the activity of excision repair, bypass polymerase and apoptotic caspases. The frequency of DSBs at arrested replication forks is low but highly variable in different cell types, and probably caused by enzymatic action. Despite the prominence of S139 phosphorylation following UV damage, mutation of this site has no influence on the UV damage response indicating that γH2Ax is a biomarker but not a participant in the UV‐DNA damage response.
The role of molecular genetic analysis within the diagnostic haemato‐oncology laboratory
Authors: BENCH A. J.
Published: September 2011

The identification of the molecular genetic basis to many haematological malignancies along with the increased use of molecularly targeted therapy has heralded an increasing role for molecular genetic–based techniques. Demonstration of acquired changes such as the JAK2 V617F mutation within myeloproliferative neoplasms has quickly moved from a research setting to the diagnostic laboratory. Disease‐specific genetic markers, such as the BCR–ABL1 fusion gene in chronic myeloid leukaemia, enable sensitive molecular genetic methods to be applied for the detection and quantification of low‐level residual disease, allowing early identification of relapse. Consequently, molecular genetics now plays a crucial role in diagnosis, the identification of prognostic markers and monitoring of haematological malignancies. The development of high‐throughput whole‐genome approaches offers the potential to rapidly screen newly diagnosed patients for all disease‐associated molecular genetic changes.
The use of the white cell count and haemoglobin in combination as an effective screen to predict the normality of the full blood count
Authors: OSEI‐BIMPONG A. , McLEAN R. , BHONDA E. , LEWIS S. M.
Published: September 2011

Introduction:  The utility of the full blood count (FBC) is vast with each parameter serving as a tool to aid diagnosis and monitor disease progression. However, the effectiveness of the test is hampered because of increased workload and lack of interpretation. In the effort to redress this issue, the combined use of the white blood cell count (WBC) and haemoglobin in predicting the normality of the FBC is evaluated.

Method:  FBC data were collated from 2191 patients and classified into two groups depending on whether the WBC and the haemoglobin were within the reference range. Blood films were examined on the abnormal FBC samples in each group and graded on morphology.

Results:  The FBC was normal in 89.6% of cases in the presence of a normal WBC and haemoglobin with subtle abnormalities in the remainder; 1+ grading of abnormal morphology in 93%. However, when the WBC and/or haemoglobin was abnormal, the remaining FBC was significantly abnormal (P < 0.05) and the corresponding blood films were grossly abnormal; 2+/3+ grading in 96% of cases.

Conclusion:  We concluded that in the presence of a normal WBC and haemoglobin, the FBC is normal in almost all cases and measuring these two parameters could be used as an effective screen to predict FBC normality.
Cellular and clinical report of new Griscelli syndrome type III cases
Authors: Westbroek Wendy , Klar Aharon , Cullinane Andrew R. , Ziegler Shira G. , Hurvitz Haggit , Ganem Ashraf , Wilson Kirkland , Dorward Heidi , Huizing Marjan , Tamimi Haled , Vainshtein Igor , Berkun Yackov , Lavie Moran , Gahl William A. , Anikster Yair
Published: September 2011

The RAB27A/Melanophilin/Myosin‐5a tripartite protein complex is required for capturing mature melanosomes in the peripheral actin network of melanocytes for subsequent transfer to keratinocytes. Mutations in any one member of this tripartite complex cause three forms of Griscelli syndrome (GS), each with distinct clinical features but with a similar cellular phenotype. To date, only one case of GS type III (GSIII), caused by mutations in the Melanophilin (MLPH) gene, has been reported. Here, we report seven new cases of GSIII in three distinct Arab pedigrees. All affected individuals carried a homozygous missense mutation (c.102C>T; p.R35W), located in the conserved Slp homology domain of MLPH, and had hypomelanosis of the skin and hair. We report the first cellular studies on GSIII melanocytes, which demonstrated that MLPH(R35W) causes perinuclear aggregation of melanosomes in melanocytes, typical for GS. Additionally, co‐immunoprecipitation assays showed that MLPH(R35W) lost its interaction with RAB27A, indicating pathogenicity of the R35W mutation.
Domain‐level identification and quantification of relative prokaryotic cell abundance in microbial communities by Micro‐FTIR spectroscopy
Authors: Igisu Motoko , Takai Ken , Ueno Yuichiro , Nishizawa Manabu , Nunoura Takuro , Hirai Miho , Kaneko Masanori , Naraoka Hiroshi , Shimojima Mie , Hori Koichi , Nakashima Satoru , Ohta Hiroyuki , Maruyama Shigenori , Isozaki Yukio
Published: September 2011

Domain‐level identification of microbial cells or cell‐like structures is crucial for investigating natural microbial communities and their ecological significance. By using micro‐Fourier transform infrared (micro‐FTIR) spectroscopy, we established a technical basis for the domain‐level diagnosis and quantification of prokaryotic cell abundance in natural microbial communities. Various prokaryotic cultures (12 species of bacteria and 10 of archaea) were examined using micro‐FTIR spectroscopic analysis. The aliphatic CH3/CH2 absorbance ratios (R3/2) showed domain‐specific signatures, possibly reflecting distinctive cellular lipid compositions. The signatures were preserved even after chemical cell fixation (formaldehyde) and nucleic acid staining (DAPI) processes – techniques that are essential in studying microbial ecology. The micro‐FTIR technique was successfully applied for quantification of the bacteria/archaea abundance ratio in an active microbial mat community in a subsurface hot aquifer stream. We conclude that the micro‐FTIR R3/2 measurement is both fast and effective for domain‐level diagnosis and quantification of first‐order prokaryotic community structures.
Seroprevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Escherichia coli O157 in a Farming Population
Authors: Quilliam R. S. , Chalmers R. M. , Williams A. P. , Chart H. , Willshaw G. A. , Kench S. M. , Edwards‐Jones G. , Evans J. , Thomas D. Rh. , Salmon R. L. , Jones D. L.
Published: September 2011

Evidence suggests that frequent and direct exposure to domestic animals has made farmers less susceptible to symptomatic Escherichia coli O157 infection than other members of the community. We have quantified the seroprevalence of antibodies to E. coli O157 lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from a representative cohort of farm workers in three geographically distinct regions of the United Kingdom during two sampling rounds over a 2‐year period. All participants completed a questionnaire to determine the range and extent of recent animal contact alongside other potential occupational and environmental exposure routes. A total of 31/946 (3.3%) serum samples contained antibodies to E. coli O157 LPS (from both rounds combined). On the second sampling round, a significant difference in seropositivity was apparent between the three regions, with enhanced seroprevalence linked to recent contact with beef cattle, having a private water supply and contact with a child under 5 years old. Only five seropositive people reported symptoms of a gastrointestinal tract infection, although these symptoms were mild. These results further support the premise of acquired immunity to E. coli O157 associated with prolonged antigenic exposures within the farming environment.
A Survey of The Risk of Zoonoses for Veterinarians
Authors: Jackson J. , Villarroel A.
Published: September 2011

The objectives of this study were to identify factors associated with zoonotic infections in veterinarians, the incidence of physician consultation and treatment and the incidence of diagnostic and treatment errors. Veterinarians in any area of practice were solicited to participate in an online survey through an invitation letter sent to the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association. Proportions of respondents to various factors were analyzed for differences among gender, age, time since graduation and type of practice in which they worked. In all, 216 complete responses were received. In all, 13.9% of respondents had never been vaccinated against rabies, and 20.8% had been exposed to suspect rabid animals, mostly (64.4%) a single time. Other zoonoses were reported by 47.2% of respondents: mostly diseases transmitted via contact (57.4%) especially ringworm, followed by those with oral transmission (21.7%). Most zoonotic infections were reportedly acquired by young veterinarians working in primary care veterinary practice. Cats were the species most commonly reported as the animal source of a zoonotic infection. Veterinarians likely self‐diagnosed zoonotic diseases, especially those transmitted by contact. Medical care providers were consulted for diagnosis of more serious diseases. Diagnosis and treatment errors were uncommon. Results of this study emphasize the need to educate future veterinarians during their early years in veterinary school about the risks associated with their future jobs.
Leptin Expression in Dogs with Cardiac Disease and Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Fonfara S. , Hetzel U. , Tew S.R. , Dukes‐Mcewan J. , Cripps P. , Clegg P.D.
Published: September 2011

Background:

Leptin belongs to the group of adipokines and has recently attracted attention because of its effects on the cardiovascular system. Increased leptin concentrations are reported in obese dogs but its role in cardiac disease (CD) is not known. Therefore, we investigated leptin expression in blood samples from dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF), and from myocardial samples of dogs with CDs.

Methods:

Leptin mRNA was analyzed from blood samples of 8 dogs presented for cardiac screening in which no abnormalities were detected and 8 dogs in CHF. In addition, myocardial samples (interventricular septum, right and left atria, and ventricles) of 10 dogs with no cardiac abnormalities (controls), 7 dogs with acquired and 3 dogs with congenital CDs were investigated using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results:

Dogs with CHF had significantly higher blood concentrations of leptin mRNA than dogs without CD (P = .013). Myocardial leptin expression was significantly increased in acquired (P = .035) and decreased in congenital CD (P = .016) in comparison to controls. Dogs in heart failure stage D showed higher myocardial leptin concentrations than dogs in stage C3 and B (P = .031). Differences according to myocardial region (P < .05) were detected and higher leptin concentrations were present in the atria in comparison to the ventricles in dogs with CD (P = .005). Comparing male and female dogs with CD revealed higher leptin concentrations in female dogs (P = .001).

Conclusions:

These results indicate leptin mRNA concentrations vary with CD, severity of CD, myocardial region, and possibly sex. Therefore, leptin might play a role in canine CD.
Inherited Polyneuropathy in Leonberger Dogs
Authors: Hultin Jäderlund K. , Baranowska Körberg I. , Nødtvedt A.
Published: September 2011

Background:

Although reporting the same clinical phenotype, inherited polyneuropathy in Leonberger dogs (ILPN) has been attributed to various modes of inheritance.

Hypothesis:

The ILPN is one disease with a major risk factor on chromosome X.

Animals:

Dogs affected by ILPN (n = 104).

Methods:

Pedigree analyses were performed by means of a case‐control approach. Data were retrieved either from medical records of cases diagnosed by the first author (n = 13), from breeders (n = 18) or from different registries publishing data on affected dogs (n = 73). A comparison was made between the X‐chromosome ancestry of fathers of affected male dogs and the ancestry of the X‐chromosomes of mothers of affected dogs of either sex. A systematic random sample, obtained from an international database of registered Leonberger dogs, served as a reference population regarding ancestry.

Results:

Having one particular female, born 1943, in the X‐chromosomal lineage is a major risk factor for developing ILPN. Sex distribution among affected dogs is in favor of a risk factor on the X‐chromosome and contradicts a monogenic autosomal or mitochondrial inheritance.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:

The ILPN is considered most likely to be one disease, and the inheritance of ILPN is best explained by an underlying X‐linked mode of transmission for the phenotype. However, age at onset and severity of signs might be determined by contributing loci. This has consequences in molecular genetic studies and for breeding strategies aimed at eliminating this disease.
History of Military Service and the Risk of Suicidal Ideation: Findings From the 2008 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
Authors: White Richard , Barber Catherine , Azrael Deb , Mukamal Kenneth J. , Miller Matthew
Published: September 2011

Studies of completed suicide by history of military service have produced inconsistent findings; no representative population‐based study has compared the risk of nonfatal suicidal behavior among veterans with risk among nonveterans. The objective of this study was to examine whether male veterans of the U.S. military are at heightened risk of suicidal ideation, compared with males who never served in the U.S. military. A total of 17,641 adult men completed the 2008 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). Subjects provided information about history of ever having served in the U.S. armed forces, past suicidal ideation, alcohol and drug abuse and dependence, measures of psychological distress, and sociodemographic data. Overall, men who had ever served in the armed forces were no more likely than men who had never served to report having seriously considered suicide over the prior 12 months. Military status was not differentially associated with other known suicide risk factors assessed by NSDUH, including psychiatric disorders. Our findings suggest that evidence‐based suicide prevention strategies applicable to the general population should be employed to reduce suicide risk among the veteran population as well.
Reconstructing historical snow depth surfaces to evaluate changes in critical demographic rates and habitat components of snow‐dependent and snow‐restricted species
Authors: Manning Jeffrey A. , Garton Edward O.
Published: September 2011

1. Climate change models consistently predict snow depth declines across the Northern Hemisphere. Snow depth has been linked to the demography of numerous species, and snow depth reduction is expected to affect the demography of some northern species. As many demographic studies depend on long‐term population data that extend back beyond available sources of spatially continuous snow depth data, reliable hindcasting of snow depth surface maps is needed.

2. We developed a two‐stage regression modelling approach to reconstructing historic snow depths using an existing and readily available spatiotemporal data set of daily meteorological variables across a large, heterogeneous landscape in North America from 1982 to 2003. The final model accounted for ecoregional differences and predicted snow depth as a function of elevation and total snowfall accumulation.

3. Model validations showed that the estimated snow depths were spatially and temporally accurate.

4. We demonstrate how to apply this model with ArcGIS to hindcast monthly and yearly sequences of high‐resolution, spatially continuous surfaces of historic snow depths. We also illustrate the utility of the modelled snow depth surfaces for informing predictions of how changes in snow depth may influence the demography and habitats of snow‐dependent and snow‐restricted species by assessing the spatiotemporal stochasticity of snow conditions that potentially benefit wolverine Gulo gulo and the winter ranges, net energy costs and population growth of mule deer Odocoileus hemionus.

5. This model can be used to hindcast snow depth surfaces across similar regions; our simple two‐stage modelling approach can be applied to other regions where equivalent climate data are available. The resulting spatiotemporal snow depth surfaces estimated from this model can be linked to existing long‐term wildlife population data sets to investigate the extent to which snow depth declines may regulate or limit populations.
The Friesian horse breed: A clinical challenge to the equine veterinarian?
Authors: Boerma S. , Back W. , Sloet van Oldruitenborgh‐Oosterbaan M. M.
Published: September 2011

The Friesian horse breed is a beautiful breed for showing, riding and driving. However, some clinical problems seem to have a higher incidence in the Friesian breed compared to other breeds and this raises suspicions that these clinical entities may have a genetic basis.
Ultrasonographic examination of the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal joint in horses: Part A: Technique and normal images
Authors: Denoix J.‐M. , Bertoni L. , Heitzmann A.‐G. , Werpy N. , Audigié F.
Published: September 2011

The collateral ligaments (CL) of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) are important structures for DIPJ stability. Collateral ligament injuries must be considered in the differential diagnosis of foot pain. An accurate examination of the CL‐DIPJ can be performed with an adequate ultrasonographic technique and equipment. This paper describes the technique and normal ultrasonographic images as reference data for the diagnosis and documentation of CL‐DIPJ desmopathies and enthesopathies.
A systematic review of the efficacy of interventions for dynamic intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate
Authors: ALLEN K. J. , CHRISTLEY R. M. , BIRCHALL M. A. , FRANKLIN S. H.
Published: September 2011

There are numerous treatments for correction of dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP). However, the efficacy of these treatments is controversial and there is little consensus on how best to treat this condition. The aims of this study were to systematically review the literature and to assess the evidence on the clinical effects of interventions for dynamic intermittent DDSP. A secondary objective was to assess whether factors relating to study quality affected reported success rates. Twenty‐three studies were included, covering a wide number of interventions but also differing widely is terms of study design, sample size, method of diagnosis, outcome measure and the number lost to follow‐up. The assessment of adverse effects was severely limited because of lack of reporting. The way in which success is measured appears to have a great effect on the reported results. Research synthesis has been severely limited because of the heterogeneity in the included studies. The low level of evidence makes it difficult to draw firm conclusions as to the efficacy of procedures for DDSP. Hence it is currently not possible to determine which procedure is the most appropriate. This systematic review highlights the difficulties of studying palatal dysfunction and suggests areas where improvements can be made in future studies.
An evaluation of the Abaxis VSPro for the measurement of equine plasma fibrinogen concentrations
Authors: EPSTEIN K. L. , BRAINARD B. M.
Published: September 2011

Reasons for performing study:Accurate measurement of plasma fibrinogen concentrations is an important tool for assessment of horses with inflammatory diseases.

Objectives:To determine the precision and accuracy of a benchtop instrument using both fresh and frozen equine plasma by comparing the plasma fibrinogen concentration measured by a benchtop instrument to 2 separate laboratory standard methods (ACL 100 and STA Compact) for fibrinogen measurement.

Methods:Accuracy and precision of the VSPro was evaluated using both human fibrinogen standards and samples from horses. Fifty frozen samples from horses with gastrointestinal disease had the fibrinogen concentration measured using the ACL 1000 and the VSPro. Fifty fresh samples were collected from hospitalised horses and fibrinogen concentration was measured using the STA Compact coagulation machine and the VSPro. Correlations for measurements were performed, as well as Bland‐Altman analysis.

Results:Coefficients of variability for the VSPro ranged from 7% to 15%. The VSPro fibrinogen values were well correlated to both the ACL 1000 (r = 0.94, P<0.001) and the STA Compact measurements (r = 0.926, P<0.001). Bland‐Altman analysis showed a mean bias of ‐0.83 g/l (95% confidence interval ‐2.03–0.324 g/l) for the ACL 1000 and a mean bias of ‐0.024 g/l (95% confidence interval ‐1.434–1.386 g/l) for the STA Compact.

Conclusions:The VSPro appears to have adequate accuracy and precision for clinical measurement of plasma fibrinogen concentrations.

Potential relevance:The VSPro provides a measurement of equine plasma fibrinogen concentration using a benchtop instrument with a rapid test time that has comparable accuracy to the fibrinogen concentration obtained from reference laboratories.
In-situ gel formulations of econazole nitrate: preparation and in-vitro and in-vivo evaluation
Authors: Baloglu Esra , Karavana Sinem Yaprak , Senyigit Zeynep Ay , Hilmioglu-Polat Süleyha , Metin Dilek Yesim , Zekioglu Osman , Guneri Tamer , Jones David S
Published: September 2011

Objectives

This study describes the in-situ gelling of econazole nitrate containing thermosensitive polymers composed of poloxamer 407 and 188 as a novel treatment platform for vaginal candidiasis.

Methods

Aqueous thermosensitive formulations containing 1% of econazole nitrate and poloxamer 407 and/or 188 were prepared and their rheological, mechanical and drug-release properties determined at 20 ± 0.1°C and/or 37 ± 0.1°C. Based on their biologically suitable thermorheological properties, formulations containing the mixtures of poloxamer 407 and 188 in ratios of 15:15 (F1), 15:20 (F2) and 20:10 (F3) were chosen for comprehensive analysis.

Key findings

Formulations based on F3 exhibited typical gel-type mechanical spectra (G′ > G″) at 37°C whereas formulations based on F1 and F2 exhibited properties akin to weakly cross-linked gels. Texture profile analysis demonstrated that F3 showed the highest cohesiveness, adhesiveness, hardness and compressibility. No statistically significant differences (P > 0.5) were observed in the release of econazole nitrate from the formulations at pH 4.5, which in all cases followed anomalous diffusion kinetics. Formulations based on 20% poloxamer 407:10% poloxamer 188 were chosen for in-vivo studies and were shown to be effective for the treatment of the vaginal candidiasis. Histopathologic evaluation also supported the effectiveness of the thermosensitive formulation administered intravaginally.

Conclusion

By careful engineering of the rheological properties, in-situ thermosensitive gel formulations of econazole nitrate were prepared and were shown to be efficacious in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis.
Effects of a school reform on longitudinal stability of students’ preferences with regard to education
Authors: Könings Karen D. , Brand‐Gruwel Saskia , Elen Jan
Published: September 2011

Background. Students’ perspective on education is of crucial importance for its effectivity, but students’ opinions are seldom acknowledged by teachers and designers. Student participation in the educational design process could be a suitable tool to better take students’ preferences into account. However, for effective participatory design, it is necessary to know whether students have stable preferences for the design of their education. Changeability of preferences would require a more continuing design process allowing continuous adaptations.

Aims. This longitudinal survey study aimed to determine the changeability over time of students’ preferences for different aspects of a learning environment. Additionally, causes of possible changes in preferences are investigated.

Sample. The participants were 1,335 high school students of five schools for secondary education in the Netherlands, joining this study during a period of 2 years.

Method. Data about students’ preferences were collected at three moments, using the Inventory of Perceived Study Environment Extended. Learning‐related student characteristics, such as processing strategies and motivational orientations, were measured with the Inventory of Learning Styles. Additionally, data on learning performances were collected.

Results. The results showed stability on preferences for almost all studied characteristics of the learning environment. Particularly remarkable was a drop in desirability for student autonomy. This was larger for students with a certificate‐oriented motivation and smaller for self‐regulated students. Additionally, poorly performing students had a larger decrease in preference for autonomy.

Conclusions. The stability on most aspects supports that participatory design might result in fairly stable instructional designs, although caution is needed with respect to student autonomy.
Teacher efficacy and pupil behaviour: The structure of teachers’ individual and collective beliefs and their relationship with numbers of pupils excluded from school
Authors: Gibbs Simon , Powell Ben
Published: September 2011

Background. Previous work has yielded knowledge of teachers’ attributions for children's behaviour. Other studies have helped to develop understanding of teachers’ efficacy beliefs. Little work has been undertaken to examine teachers’ efficacy beliefs with regard to classroom behaviour.

Aims. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between teachers’ individual and collective beliefs about their efficacy with children's behaviour and whether these beliefs were associated with the use of exclusion as a sanction.

Sample. A total of 197 teachers from 31 primary and nursery schools in the North East of England participated.

Methods. Participants responded to questionnaires to assess their individual and collective efficacy beliefs. Demographic and school level data were also collected.

Results. Factor analysis indicated that teachers’ individual efficacy beliefs were best represented by three factors: ‘Classroom Management’, ‘Children's Engagement’, ‘Instructional Strategies’ that corresponded well to previous findings. Analysis of collective efficacy beliefs showed a similar structure that differed from previous findings. Individual efficacy was not associated with numbers of children excluded. One factor ‘Addressing External Influences’ in the collective beliefs was negatively correlated with numbers of children excluded and appeared to mitigate the deleterious effects associated with socio‐economic deprivation.

Conclusions. This study adds weight to the importance of understanding and supporting teachers’ beliefs in their collective efficacy. In particular, this study underlines the need for strategies that will endorse and develop teachers’ beliefs in their ability to manage children's behaviour successfully.
Social‐emotional characteristics of gifted accelerated and non‐accelerated students in the Netherlands
Authors: Hoogeveen Lianne , van Hell Janet G. , Verhoeven Ludo
Published: September 2011

Background. In the studies of acceleration conducted so far a multidimensional perspective has largely been neglected. No attempt has been made to relate social‐emotional characteristics of accelerated versus non‐accelerated students in perspective of environmental factors.

Aims. In this study, social‐emotional characteristics of accelerated gifted students in the Netherlands were examined in relation to personal and environmental factors.

Samples. Self‐concept and social contacts of accelerated (n = 148) and non‐accelerated (n = 55) gifted students, aged 4 to 27 (M = 11.22, SD = 4.27) were measured.

Method. Self‐concept and social contacts of accelerated and non‐accelerated gifted students were measured using a questionnaire and a diary, and parents of these students evaluated their behavioural characteristics. Gender and birth order were studied as personal factors and grade, classroom, teachers’ gender, teaching experience, and the quality of parent‐school contact as environmental factors.

Results. The results showed minimal differences in the social‐emotional characteristics of accelerated and non‐accelerated gifted students. The few differences we found favoured the accelerated students. We also found that multiple grade skipping does not have negative effects on social‐emotional characteristics, and that long‐term effects of acceleration tend to be positive. As regards the possible modulation of personal and environmental factors, we merely found an impact of such factors in the non‐accelerated group.

Conclusions. The results of this study strongly suggest that social‐emotional characteristics of accelerated gifted students and non‐accelerated gifted students are largely similar. These results thus do not support worries expressed by teachers about the acceleration of gifted students. Our findings parallel the outcomes of earlier studies in the United States and Germany in that we observed that acceleration does not harm gifted students, not even in the case of multiple grade skipping. On the contrary, there is a suggestion in the data that accelerated students are more socially competent than non‐accelerated students. The findings in this study can reassure those parents and teachers who worry about the social‐emotional consequences of acceleration in school: If a student is gifted, acceleration seems to be a sound and, in many cases, appropriate measure in gifted education.
Bidirectionality between pain and insomnia symptoms: A prospective study
Authors: Jansson‐Fröjmark Markus , Boersma Katja
Published: September 2011

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether there is a bidirectional relationship between pain and insomnia symptoms over the course of a year.

Design. A longitudinal design with a 1‐year follow‐up was used.

Methods. From a randomly selected sample of the adult general population (N= 3,000), 1,746 individuals filled out a baseline and 1‐year follow‐up survey on pain, insomnia symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and depressive symptoms.

Results. Pain (OR = 1.64) and anxiety symptoms increased the risk for the incidence of insomnia symptoms (R2= .125) and pain (OR = 1.98), anxiety symptoms and depressive symptoms were related to the persistence of insomnia symptoms (R2= .212). Gender and anxiety symptoms increased the risk for the incidence of pain (R2= .073); and age, insomnia symptoms (OR = 1.49), anxiety symptoms, and depressive symptoms were associated with the persistence of pain (R2= .187).

Conclusion. While pain was linked to future insomnia symptoms and insomnia symptoms to the persistence of pain over the course of a year, insomnia symptoms was not associated with the incidence of pain. The results, thus, partly argue against bidirectionality between pain and insomnia symptoms.
Newly diagnosed heart failure: Change in quality of life, mood, and illness beliefs in the first 6 months after diagnosis
Authors: Mulligan K. , Mehta P. A. , Fteropoulli T. , Dubrey S. W. , McIntyre H. F. , McDonagh T. A. , Sutton G. C. , Walker D. M. , Cowie M. R. , Newman S.
Published: September 2011

Objectives. This study sought to examine how patients’ mood and quality of life (QoL) change during the early high‐risk period after a diagnosis of heart failure (HF) and to identify factors that may influence change.

Design. A within‐subjects, repeated‐measures design was used. Assessments took place within 4 weeks of diagnosis and 6 months later.

Methods. One hundred and sixty six patients with HF completed assessments of their mood, QoL, and beliefs about HF and its treatment. Correlation analysis was conducted between the variables and analysis of variance and t‐tests were used to assess differences in categorical variables. To examine which variables predicted mood and QoL, hierarchical multiple regressions were conducted.

Results. At follow‐up, patients’ beliefs indicated a realization of the chronicity of their HF, however their beliefs about the consequences of having HF did not change and their satisfaction with their treatment remained high. QoL and anxiety improved significantly over time but there was no significant change in depressed mood. As would be expected, improvement in symptoms was a key factor in improved mood and QoL. Other significant explanatory variables included age, comorbid chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, depressed mood, patients’ beliefs about the consequences of their HF and their concerns about treatment.

Conclusions. This study suggests that addressing patients’ mood and beliefs about their illness and its treatment may be additional ways of improving patient QoL in the early period after the diagnosis of HF.
The attitudinal consequences of thought suppression: A focus on thinness thoughts
Authors: Tong Eddie M. W. , Ang Mei‐San , Chua Alvin S. Y.
Published: September 2011

Four studies examined whether thought suppression could enhance attitude accessibility and whether behaviours that are consistent with the more accessible attitudes would follow. Thinness was examined as the attitude object. Experiments 1 and 2 showed that suppression of positive thoughts about thinness increased the accessibility of the positive attitudes associated with thinness. Experiments 3 and 4 showed that suppression of positive thinness thoughts also elicited more health‐promoting behaviours. The implications of the findings for attitude accessibility and the practical consequences of thought suppression are discussed.
Mindfulness groups for early psychosis: A qualitative study
Authors: Ashcroft Katie , Barrow Faye , Lee Rebecca , MacKinnon Katharine
Published: September 2011

Objectives. The aim of the study was to explore experiences of practising mindfulness in participants within an early intervention for psychosis (EIP) service.

Design. A qualitative research methodology was used – that of grounded theory. This was chosen as it enabled examination of clients’ experiences of mindfulness practice.

Methods. The experience of mindfulness among nine people within an EIP service who had been practising mindfulness for at least 20 weeks was investigated. Semi‐structured interviews exploring how mindfulness practice related to psychosis and day‐to‐day life were recorded verbatim, transcribed, and analysed.

Results. Four main categories emerged: being able to use mindfulness, making sense of mindfulness and coping, relating to people differently, and increased self‐understanding and acceptance.

Conclusions. All participants reported subjective benefits and challenges of mindfulness practice, and gave insights into processes of change. These preliminary data suggest mindfulness can be of use to individuals experiencing their first episode of psychosis.
Dynamic Analysis of Fracture in Thin-Walled Pipes
Authors: Gato C. , Shie Y.
Published: September 2011

Dynamic fracture of thin-walled cylindrical structures is studied with a large deformation meshfree method. Due to the higher order continuity and smoothness of the shape functions, meshfree methods are well suited to simulate dynamic fracture of thin-walled structures since they avoid ill-conditioning as well as stiffening in numerical computations. Simulations of detonation driven fracture in thin pipes demonstrate the efficiency of the method.
Determination of the Heat Release Distribution in Turbulent Flames by a Model Based Correction of OH* Chemiluminescence
Authors: Lauer Martin , Zellhuber Mathieu , Sattelmayer Thomas , Aul Christopher J.
Published: September 2011

Imaging of OH* or CH* chemiluminescence with intensified cameras is often employed for the determination of heat release in premixed flames. Proportionality is commonly assumed, but in the turbulent case this assumption is not justified. Substantial deviations from proportionality are observed, which are due to turbulence-chemistry interactions. In this study a model based correction method is presented to obtain a better approximation of the spatially resolved heat release rate of lean turbulent flames from OH* measurements. The correction method uses a statistical strain rate model to account for the turbulence influence. The strain rate model is evaluated with time-resolved velocity measurements of the turbulent flow. Additionally, one-dimensional simulations of strained counterflow flames are performed to consider the nonlinear effect of turbulence on chemiluminescence intensities. A detailed reaction mechanism, which includes all relevant chemiluminescence reactions and deactivation processes, is used. The result of the simulations is a lookup table of the ratio between heat release rate and OH* intensity with strain rate as parameter. This lookup table is linked with the statistical strain rate model to obtain a correction factor which accounts for the nonlinear relationships between OH* intensity, heat release rate, and strain rate. The factor is then used to correct measured OH* intensities to obtain the local heat release rate. The corrected intensities are compared to heat release distributions which are measured with an alternative method. For all investigated flames in the lean, partially premixed regime the corrected OH* intensities are in very good agreement with the heat release rate distributions of the flames.
Scaling Analysis of the Unsteady Natural Convection Boundary Layer Adjacent to an Inclined Plate for Pr > 1 Following Instantaneous Heating
Authors: Saha Suvash C. , Xu Feng , Mamun Molla Md
Published: September 2011

The unsteady natural convection boundary layer adjacent to an instantaneously heated inclined plate is investigated using an improved scaling analysis and direct numerical simulations. The development of the unsteady natural convection boundary layer following instantaneous heating may be classified into three distinct stages including a start-up stage, a transitional stage, and a steady state stage, which can be clearly identified in the analytical and numerical results. Major scaling relations of the velocity and thicknesses and the flow development time of the natural convection boundary layer are obtained using triple-layer integral solutions and verified by direct numerical simulations over a wide range of flow parameters.
Comment on “Additive Genetic Breeding Values Correlate with the Load of Partially Deleterious Mutations”
Authors: Postma Erik
Published: September 2011

Tomkins
et al
. (Reports, 14 May 2010, p. 892) reported a strong negative correlation between breeding values and mutational load in cow-pea weevils. Here, I show that this result can be attributed to a statistical artifact. By testing the observed correlation against an incorrect null hypothesis, they find a negative correlation where one does not exist.
Imaging the Microscopic Structure of Shear Thinning and Thickening Colloidal Suspensions
Authors: Cheng Xiang , McCoy Jonathan H. , Israelachvili Jacob N. , Cohen Itai
Published: September 2011

Confocal microscopy reveals changes in structures formed by suspended particles under different flow conditions.
John Harmen Marburger III (1941–2011)
Authors: Orbach Raymond L.
Published: September 2011

A remarkable physicist and administrator served as the U.S. presidential science adviser for 8 years.
A Grand Challenge in Biology
Authors: Alberts Bruce
Published: September 2011

Richard Feynman, a brilliant Nobel Prize–winning physicist, is often quoted for his statement that “What I cannot create, I do not understand.” The remarkable advances in our knowledge of the chemistry of life achieved in the past few decades, published in
Science
and many other journals, could lead nonexperts to assume that biologists are coming close to a real understanding of cells. On the contrary, as scientists learn more and more, we have increasingly come to recognize how huge the challenge is that confronts us. In this special issue, we review the progress made in the decade-old field called synthetic biology, which, as Feynman would advocate, creates biological networks in order to help us understand, and in some cases redesign, living systems. Along with its promise for the biotechnology industry, synthetic biology has the potential to become a powerful new tool for the long-term fundamental research needed to more effectively create breakthroughs in improving human health and welfare and the environment.
*
Helping Hollywood Create and Battle a Pandemic
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: September 2011

The writer and director of the upcoming film
Contagion
tapped Ian Lipkin of Columbia University to keep the reels real.