bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Western Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) Eavesdrop on Alarm Calls of Black‐Tailed Prairie Dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus)
Authors: D. Bryan Rebecca , B. Wunder Michael
Published: December 2013

Animals sharing a common habitat can indirectly receive information about their environment by observing information exchanges between other animals, a process known as eavesdropping. Animals that use an auditory alarm calling system are an important indirect information source for eavesdropping individuals in their environments. We investigated whether Western burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) nesting on black‐tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) colonies responded to broadcasts of prairie dog alarm calls. Western burrowing owls are closely associated with black‐tailed prairie dogs in Colorado and neighboring states on the Great Plains of the United States. Prairie dog burrows in active colonies can serve as nesting sites for Western burrowing owls, and prairie dogs may act as an alternative prey source for predators, potentially decreasing the burrowing owls' risk of predation through the dilution effect. Burrowing owls nesting on prairie dog colonies may also eavesdrop on prairie dog alarm calls, enhancing their survival and nesting success on prairie dog colonies. We performed broadcast experiments with three different sounds: a prairie dog alarm call, a biological control (cattle mooing), and a non‐biological control (an airplane engine), and characterized burrowing owl responses as either alert or relaxed. For each sound stimulus, we recorded the time to first alert response to broadcast sounds (latency) and also how frequently the target burrowing owl exhibited an alert response within the first ten seconds of the broadcast (intensity). Burrowing owls reacted more quickly to the prairie dog alarm than to the biological control. They significantly increased the intensity of alert behaviors in response to broadcasts of the alarm, but did not show an increased reaction to either the biological or the non‐biological control. Our results suggest that burrowing owls nesting on prairie dog colonies eavesdrop on, and increase their alert behaviors in response to, prairie dog alarm calls.
Motivating Military Families to Thrive
Authors: Clark Matthew G. , Jordan Jacquelynn D. , Clark Katherine L.
Published: December 2013

Since 1973 excellent programs supporting military families have developed. However, a unified program across the Department of Defense (DoD) that meets family needs and connects to communities is elusive. Military Family Life Project data show that participation in many programs is limited, but when the programs are used, they often work well. The data suggest the “coercive bureaucracy” that envelopes the military extends to the family and limits motivation to utilize programs. We propose that the military employ the Self‐Determination Theory to motivate families to elevate above basic survival so they can thrive. With 73% of families living outside of military installations, their participation in programs will require community involvement because the government cannot meet the needs of most families by itself. Connecting government and community programs requires a transparent unified program structure. We propose that product life‐cycle management will elucidate and integrate existing programs across the entire service life cycle and enhance community connectivity.
Understanding Minority Households as Consumers of Financial Services
Authors: de Rubio Alicia Rodriguez
Published: December 2013

This study examined minority households' financial behavior in the last decade. Data were from the 2001, 2004, and 2007 Survey of Consumer Finances. Chi‐square analysis was used to compare the sources of information for making savings and investment decisions and the reasons for saving of Hispanic, African American, and White households. African American and Hispanic households were more likely to save to buy a house or pay for their children's education. African American households were more likely to use the television and the radio as sources of information, whereas Hispanic households were more likely to use the advice of a friend or relative.
An Investigation of Self‐Concept, Clothing Selection Motivation, and Life Satisfaction among Disabled Consumers
Authors: Chang Hyo Jung (Julie) , Yurchisin Jennifer , Hodges Nancy , Watchravesringkan Kittichai , Ackerman Terry
Published: December 2013

This study examined the impact that aspects of self‐concept (i.e., generalized self‐efficacy, public self‐consciousness, state hope, self‐esteem) have on clothing selection motivation and life satisfaction among disabled consumers. A total of 318 questionnaires were completed by participants, the majority of whom had either a mobility impairment or a visual impairment. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the hypotheses. Results indicated that for disabled consumers, generalized self‐efficacy, public self‐consciousness, and state hope were related to self‐esteem, and also self‐esteem positively influenced the assurance dimension of clothing selection motivation. Additionally, a significant relationship was found between life satisfaction and the individuality dimension of clothing selection motivation. Results shed light on the social/psychological factors influencing the clothing choices of disabled consumers and address a gap in the literature by considering clothing use among disabled consumers.
Theses and Dissertations Completed in Family and Consumer Sciences: 2012
Authors: Kabaci M. J.
Published: December 2013

An annual survey of graduate programs in family and consumer science departments of universities and colleges was conducted in the spring of 2013 to compile a list of theses and dissertations completed in 2012. For the survey, requests for the titles and authors were sent via email to institutions three times within a three‐week period. Twenty‐seven colleges and universities responded to the survey. A total of 279 theses and 146 dissertations were reported. A report of those submissions, by subject category, author, and title, is provided.
The effects of riverine impoundment on genetic structure and gene flow in two stream fishes in the Mobile River basin
Authors: Fluker Brook L. , Kuhajda Bernard R. , Harris Phillip M.
Published: December 2013

Riverine impoundments (reservoirs) are thought to impede natural migration in small‐stream‐inhabiting fishes, resulting in spatially and genetically fragmented populations. However, this hypothesis remains poorly tested, and the genetic consequences of riverine impoundment for stream fishes with differing dispersal capabilities are not well understood.

This study utilised a combination of microsatellite DNA loci from 479 individuals and the mitochondrial (mt) DNA cytochrome b gene (810–1140 bp) from 83 individuals from eight streams to compare genetic structure and diversity between reservoir‐fragmented and non‐fragmented groups of two species of stream fishes with differing dispersal capabilities in the Mobile River basin of the south‐eastern United States.

For both species, analysis of microsatellite loci revealed genetic discontinuities between neighbouring tributaries that have been fragmented by reservoir construction. This finding was in stark contrast to the high degree of continuity for both species between reference tributaries in a natural river setting. Results from mtDNA revealed no significant genetic structure within reservoir‐fragmented or non‐fragmented groups, indicating a lack of historical genetic structure (i.e. prior to reservoir construction). Microsatellite‐based estimates of genetic diversity and migration were differentially affected in the two species, indicating that stream fishes with relatively high dispersal abilities may be equally or more susceptible to reservoir fragmentation when compared to species with relatively low dispersal abilities.

Collectively, our data revealed that riverine impoundment and reservoir‐induced habitat fragmentation adversely affect genetic characteristics in small‐stream‐inhabiting fishes. This is of particular interest in biodiversity hotspots such as the south‐eastern United States where hydroelectric and recreational reservoirs restrict connectivity in aquatic systems.
The relation between invertebrate drift and two primary controls, discharge and benthic densities, in a large regulated river
Authors: Kennedy Theodore A. , Yackulic Charles B. , Cross Wyatt F. , Grams Paul E. , Yard Michael D. , Copp Adam J.
Published: December 2013

Invertebrate drift is a fundamental process in streams and rivers. Studies from laboratory experiments and small streams have identified numerous extrinsic (e.g. discharge, light intensity, water quality) and intrinsic factors (invertebrate life stage, benthic density, behaviour) that govern invertebrate drift concentrations (# m−3), but the factors that govern invertebrate drift in larger rivers remain poorly understood. For example, while large increases or decreases in discharge can lead to large increases in invertebrate drift, the role of smaller, incremental changes in discharge is poorly described. In addition, while we might expect invertebrate drift concentrations to be proportional to benthic densities (# m−2), the benthic–drift relation has not been rigorously evaluated.

Here, we develop a framework for modelling invertebrate drift that is derived from sediment transport studies. We use this framework to guide the analysis of high‐resolution data sets of benthic density and drift concentration for four important invertebrate taxa from the Colorado River downstream of Glen Canyon Dam (mean daily discharge 325 m3 s−1) that were collected over 18 months and include multiple observations within days. Ramping of regulated flows on this river segment provides an experimental treatment that is repeated daily and allowed us to describe the functional relations between invertebrate drift and two primary controls, discharge and benthic densities.

Twofold daily variation in discharge resulted in a >10‐fold increase in drift concentrations of benthic invertebrates associated with pools and detritus (i.e. Gammarus lacustris and Potamopyrgus antipodarum). In contrast, drift concentrations of sessile blackfly larvae (Simuliium arcticum), which are associated with high‐velocity cobble microhabitats, decreased by over 80% as discharge doubled. Drift concentrations of Chironomidae increased proportional to discharge.

Drift of all four taxa was positively related to benthic density. Drift concentrations of Gammarus, Potamopyrgus and Chironomidae were proportional to benthic density. Drift concentrations of Simulium were positively related to benthic density, but the benthic–drift relation was less than proportional (i.e. a doubling of benthic density only led to a 40% increase in drift concentrations).

Our study demonstrates that invertebrate drift concentrations in the Colorado River are jointly controlled by discharge and benthic densities, but these controls operate at different timescales. Twofold daily variation in discharge associated with hydropeaking was the primary control on within‐day variation in invertebrate drift concentrations. In contrast, benthic density, which varied 10‐ to 1000‐fold among sampling dates, depending on the taxa, was the primary control on invertebrate drift concentrations over longer timescales (weeks to months).
Drying of a temperate, intermittent river has little effect on adjacent riparian arthropod communities
Authors: Corti Roland , Datry Thibault
Published: December 2013

Rivers and their adjacent riparian zones are intimately linked by fluxes of water, air masses, nutrients and organisms. Intermittent rivers constitute ideal systems to examine these linkages because they are characterised by alternating wet and dry phases, and hence, natural and contrasting variations occur in aquatic resources and environmental conditions.

We addressed the effects of river drying on riparian communities by collecting ground‐dwelling arthropods at three perennial sites and at four intermittent sites during a wet and a dry phase in the Albarine River (France). We first predicted that during dry phases, declines in aquatic resources and loss of water would create harsh environmental conditions and alter community structure and composition, due to decreases in predators and hygrophilous taxa. Second, we predicted that alternating wet and dry phases would enhance cumulative taxonomic richness over time owing to an increase in species turnover.

We found similar decreasing temporal patterns in taxonomic richness and abundance at intermittent and perennial sites, indicating that river drying had no effect on the structure of riparian arthropod communities. Community composition at intermittent and perennial sites differed only during the dry phase, indicating that intermittent and perennial sites gained and lost different sets of taxa as the river dried. Nevertheless, species turnover did not differ between sites, while taxonomic richness was always higher at intermittent sites.

Although some taxa were sensitive to river drying, the Albarine River supports rich and abundant riparian arthropod communities. While several studies have reported a strong dependence of riparian populations on aquatic resources, our results indicate that the effects of river drying on riparian arthropods at the community level are weak and discrete in time in the Albarine River.
Global solid biomass trade for energy by 2020: an assessment of potential import streams and supply costs to North‐West Europe under different sustainability constraints
Authors: Lamers Patrick , Hoefnagels Ric , Junginger Martin , Hamelinck Carlo , Faaij André
Published: December 2013

The expected use of solid biomass for large‐scale heat and power production across North–West Europe (NW EU) has led to discussions about its sustainability, especially due to the increasing import dependence of the sector. While individual Member States and companies have put forward sustainability criteria, it remains unclear how different requirements will influence the availability and cost of solid biomass and thus how specific regions will satisfy their demand in a competitive global market. We combined a geospatially explicit least‐cost biomass supply model with a linear optimization solver to assess global solid biomass trade streams by 2020 with a particular focus on NW EU. We apply different demand and supply scenarios representing varying policy developments and sustainability requirements. We find that the projected EU solid biomass demand by 2020 can be met across all scenarios, almost exclusively via domestic biomass. The exploitation of domestic agricultural residue and energy crop potentials, however, will need to increase sharply. Given sustainability requirements for solid biomass as for liquid biofuels, extra‐EU imports may reach 236 PJ by 2020, i.e., 400% of their 2010 levels. Intra‐EU trade is expected to grow with stricter sustainability requirements up to 548 PJ, i.e., 280% of its 2010 levels by 2020. Increasing sustainability requirements can have different effects on trade portfolios across NW EU. Excluding pulpwood pellets may drive the supply costs of import dependent countries, foremost the Netherlands and the UK, whereas excluding additional forest biomass may entail higher costs for Germany and Denmark which rely on regional biomass. Excluding solid biomass fractions may create short‐term price hikes. Our modeling results are strongly influenced by parameterization choices, foremost assumed EU biomass supply volumes and costs and assumed relations between criteria and supply. The model framework is suited for the inclusion of dynamic supply–demand interactions and other world regions.
The role of green infrastructure in climate change adaptation in London
Authors: Jones Sarah , Somper Carol
Published: December 2013

Climate change may create risks that, without sufficient adaptation measures in place, endanger lives and damage natural, semi‐natural and designed landscapes. This article explores the use of green infrastructure in climate change adaptation in London. A review of the current literature identifies how and where green infrastructure can deliver climate adaptation services and considers the benefits of taking a green infrastructure (or ecosystems services) approach to development. Selected examples are used to demonstrate how green infrastructure is being integrated into London's urban landscape. The article considers how existing mechanisms are facilitating the growth of green infrastructure in the capital and identifies three key focus areas for future research and policy. It concludes by suggesting that a more collaborative and imaginative approach to optimising the potential for green infrastructure benefits is needed.
Consistent absence of HER2 expression, regardless of HER2 amplification status, in neuroendocrine carcinomas of the stomach
Authors: Ishida Michihiro , Sekine Shigeki , Taniguchi Hirokazu , Fukagawa Takeo , Katai Hitoshi , Kushima Ryoji
Published: December 2013

Aims

To determine HER2 amplification status and HER2 overexpression status in neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) of the stomach.

Methods and results

We analysed 51 gastric NECs, including 15 pure NECs and 36 NECs associated with adenocarcinoma and/or dysplasia, for HER2 amplification by dual‐colour chromogenic in‐situ hybridization, and for HER2 expression by immunohistochemistry. HER2 amplification was observed in three NECs (6%) and in seven (19%) cases of adenocarcinoma/dysplasia associated with NEC. Immunohistochemically, all of the NECs, including those showing HER2 amplification, lacked HER2 expression. On the other hand, positive and equivocal HER2 overexpression was observed in three (8%) and six (17%) cases of adenocarcinoma/dysplasia associated with NEC, respectively.

Conclusions

HER2 expression is consistently absent in gastric NECs, regardless of HER2 amplification status or association with HER2‐positive adenocarcinoma/dysplasia components. Accordingly, HER2 is unlikely to be a valid therapeutic target in gastric NECs. Also, the absence of HER2 expression in NECs could be one of the causes of intratumoral heterogeneity of HER2 expression in gastric cancers.
Improving the mechanical properties of multiuse dental floss holders
Authors: Wolff A , Staehle HJ
Published: December 2013

Objectives

This study was designed to determine the effect of using a tensioning device and various winding techniques on the tension of a polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE) floss in a multiuse holder. The hypothesis of this study is that the use of a tensioning device improves the handling and mechanical properties of floss holders.

Materials and methods

The floss holder was modified so that four different degrees of tension (single‐/double‐wound; with/without tensioning device) were obtained and tested in an in vitro model approximating dental proximal contact resistance. The following parameters were measured: (I) the force (N) necessary to pass through the proximal contact after the 30th passage, (II) the displacement of the floss (mm), (III) the loosening of the floss (offset, mm), (IV) the change in distance between the branches (mm).

Results

(I) passage force. All modifications reached 11 N (median). For the double‐wound modification using the tensioning device, the smallest displacement (II) was 3.6 mm; the single‐wound modification without the tensioning device had the highest displacement (7.6 mm, medians) (III). The offset of all four different modifications ranged between 0 and −2 mm (medians). For the modification without the tensioning device, there was a difference in offset of −2 mm (single‐wound) and 0.5 mm (double‐wound) (medians). Modifications with the tensioning device did not produce any offset differences. (IV) A change in distance between the branches between −3 mm and −2 mm, respectively (with the tensioning device), and 0 mm (without the tensioning device) was observed (median). The results indicated that double‐wound floss and the use of a tensioning device both lead to a constant tension of the floss in the floss holder.

Conclusions

Technical modifications such as those shown in this study should improve the mechanical properties of multiuse floss holders, which, in turn, could lead to more user‐friendly floss holders and hence to higher user acceptance.
Comparison of pulp response to mineral trioxide aggregate and a bioceramic paste in partial pulpotomy of sound human premolars: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Azimi S. , Fazlyab M. , Sadri D. , Saghiri M. A. , Khosravanifard B. , Asgary S.
Published: December 2013

Aim

This randomized clinical trial evaluated clinical sign/symptoms as well as histological pulp reactions in terms of inflammation and mineralized bridge formation after partial pulpotomy of sound human premolars and placement of a bioceramic paste (iRoot BP) or tooth‐colored ProRoot MTA as pulp‐covering biomaterials.

Methodology

Twenty‐four human sound premolars were randomly allocated into two experimental groups (n = 12) treated either with iRoot BP or MTA subsequent to partial pulpotomy. Six weeks after treatment, clinical sign/symptoms and radiographic changes were evaluated. The teeth were then extracted and examined histologically for inflammatory status of the pulp, formation of hard tissue bridge and appearance of the bridge. In terms of pulp inflammation and dentinal bridge formation, the Mann–Whitney U, and for clinical signs, the chi‐square test was used (α = 0.05).

Results

In terms of pulp inflammation, formation of hard tissue bridge and its appearance, the differences between the two experimental groups were not significant. However, clinical sensitivity to cold was significantly less for teeth treated with MTA (P < 0.05). All cases had formed a hard tissue bridge, and none of the specimens in either group had pulpal necrosis.

Conclusion

When treating teeth with healthy pulps, the response to partial pulpotomy treatment with both MTA and iRoot BP was favourable. However, pulps covered with iRoot BP were more sensitive to cold stimuli.
Automatic classification of atypical lymphoid B cells using digital blood image processing
Authors: Alférez S. , Merino A. , Mujica L. E. , Ruiz M. , Bigorra L. , Rodellar J.
Published: December 2013

Introduction

There are automated systems for digital peripheral blood (PB) cell analysis, but they operate most effectively in nonpathological blood samples. The objective of this work was to design a methodology to improve the automatic classification of abnormal lymphoid cells.

Methods

We analyzed 340 digital images of individual lymphoid cells from PB films obtained in the CellaVision DM96:150 chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells, 100 hairy cell leukemia (HCL) cells, and 90 normal lymphocytes (N). We implemented the Watershed Transformation to segment the nucleus, the cytoplasm, and the peripheral cell region. We extracted 44 features and then the clustering Fuzzy C‐Means (FCM) was applied in two steps for the lymphocyte classification.

Results

The images were automatically clustered in three groups, one of them with 98% of the HCL cells. The set of the remaining cells was clustered again using FCM and texture features. The two new groups contained 83.3% of the N cells and 71.3% of the CLL cells, respectively.

Conclusion

The approach has been able to automatically classify with high precision three types of lymphoid cells. The addition of more descriptors and other classification techniques will allow extending the classification to other classes of atypical lymphoid cells.
La sociedad civil y el piso de protección social
Authors: van Ginneken Wouter
Published: December 2013

La sociedad civil apoya con entusiasmo el concepto de pisos de protección social y, en particular, la adopción de la Recomendación sobre los pisos de protección social, 2012 (núm. 202), de la OIT. La creación de los pisos nacionales de protección social representaría un gran avance en la reducción de la pobreza y la desigualdad así como en el empoderamiento de la población mundial. La sociedad civil tiene el convencimiento de que un planteamiento basado en los derechos humanos es el más efectivo para proyectar medidas para empoderar a la población y establecer pisos de protección social sostenibles. En cuanto a la implementación de garantías de protección social basada en los derechos humanos, esta medida presenta cuatro aspectos específicos que hay que destacar: a) respeto por los derechos y la dignidad de las personas que son titulares de derechos a la seguridad social; b) plena participación de la sociedad civil; c) cobertura universal en el ámbito local, nacional e internacional, y d) y especial atención a los grupos vulnerables. Tras la 101.ª Conferencia Internacional del Trabajo en 2012, cincuenta y nueve organizaciones de la sociedad civil fundaron la Coalición por el Piso de Protección Social, con dos objetivos principales: supervisar y contribuir a la implementación universal de pisos de protección social en la esfera local y nacional; y promover el concepto de piso de protección social en la formulación de políticas globales, como en el caso de las conversaciones sobre el programa para el desarrollo posterior a 2015.
Reinstatement of three names in Glochidion (Phyllanthaceae) based on morphological and palynological evidence
Authors: Yao Gang , Zhang Dian‐Xiang
Published: December 2013

Based on morphological and palynological comparisons, three names, viz., Glochidion mishmiense Hook. f., G. pseudo‐obscurum Pamp., and G. rubidulum Chin are reinstated. The three names have previously been reduced to synonymy of G. zeylanicum var. tomentosum (Dalzell) Trimen, G. puberum (L.) Hutch., and G. thomsonii (Muell. Arg.) Hook. f., respectively. Floral morphological characters of G. mishmiense are described here for the first time. In addition, G. mishmiense and G. pseudo‐obscurum are lectotypified, and G. mishmiense is newly recorded in China, while the record of G. thomsonii in China is rejected.
IQ and obesity in adolescence: a population‐based, cross‐sectional study
Authors: Goldberg S. , Werbeloff N. , Fruchter E. , Portuguese S. , Davidson M. , Weiser M.
Published: December 2013

What is already known about this subject

Low IQ is associated with high BMI in childhood.

There are inconsistent findings on the association between low SES and high BMI.

Youth with low IQ have been reported to have poorer health behaviors, such as poor nutrition and less physical activity.

What this study adds

Low IQ is significantly associated with obesity for both male and female adolescents, though more strongly for female adolescents.

Physical activity has a mediating effect on the association between low IQ and obesity among both male and female adolescents, though more strongly for male adolescents.

The association between low IQ and obesity is strongest among adolescents from high SES backgrounds.

Background

Previous studies have shown an association between low intelligence quotient (IQ), high body mass index and low socioeconomic status (SES).

Objectives

This study examined the cross‐sectional association between IQ and obesity, exploring the roles of gender, SES and physical activity in this association.

Methods

Subjects were 235 663 male and 169 259 female adolescents assessed by the Israeli military draft board.

Results

Low IQ was significantly associated with increased odds of obesity among male (odds ratio [OR] = 1.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.36–1.52) and female adolescents (OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.51–1.73); this association was significantly stronger among female adolescents. Sobel tests indicated that physical activity had a significant mediating effect on this association for male and female adolescents, although more strongly for male adolescents. Dividing the sample according to SES, the association between low IQ and obesity was strongest in the high SES group (male adolescents: OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.10–1.43, female adolescents: OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.38–1.89), even when controlling for physical activity.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that low IQ is associated with increased odds of obesity, particularly in female adolescents and in adolescents with high SES. Physical activity has a mediating effect on this association, although more strongly for male than for female adolescents. Public health measures on decreasing obesity might focus on these groups.
Differences in gestational weight gain between pregnancies before and after maternal bariatric surgery correlate with differences in birth weight but not with scores on the body mass index in early childhood
Authors: Berglind D. , Willmer M. , Näslund E. , Tynelius P. , Sørensen T. I. A. , Rasmussen F.
Published: December 2013

Background

Large maternal gestational weight gain (GWG) is associated with increased birth weight and increased risk of obesity in offspring, but these associations may be confounded by genetic and environmental factors. The aim was to investigate the effects of differences in GWG in all three trimesters on differences in birth weight and in body mass index (BMI) scores at 4 and 6 years of age, within siblings born before and after bariatric surgery.

Method

Women with at least one child born before and one after bariatric surgery were identified in national Swedish registers. Series of weight (and height) measurements were collected from antenatal medical records, with data on the nearest pregnancies before and after bariatric surgery.

Results

The age‐adjusted means of pre‐ and post‐operative GWG of 124 women were 11.3 (standard deviation [SD] 7.2) and 8.3 (SD 6.4) kg, respectively (P = 0.01). Adjusted fixed effects regression models showed positive associations of differences in mean total GWG with differences in siblings' birth weight, 0.023 kg per 1‐kg greater weight gain (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.014–0.069) and for second trimester 0.53 kg for each 1‐kg greater weight per week (95% CI: 0.32–1.61), whereas no associations were found with BMI in pre‐school age.

Conclusion

This study showed positive associations between differences in total and second trimester maternal GWG and differences in children's birth weight, but no association with BMI scores in pre‐school age. Maternal genetic, social and lifestyle factors fixed from one pregnancy to the next were taken into account in the analyses by the study design.
An Application of Computer‐Aided Molecular Design (CAMD) Using the Signature Molecular Descriptor–Part 2. Evaluating Newly Identified Surface Tension‐Reducing Substances for Potential Use as Shrinkage‐Reducing Admixtures
Authors: Shlonimskaya Natalia , Biernacki Joseph J. , Kayello Hamed M. , Visco Donald P.
Published: December 2013

In this study, the use of computer‐aided molecular design (CAMD) is validated as a tool for enabling the discovery of new shrinkage‐reducing compounds for possible use in portland cement composites and is framed as one of many multiscale modeling tools in a broad hierarchy of possibilities. Twelve additives were tested for their ability to inhibit shrinkage in Type I ordinary portland cement under both autogenous and drying conditions. The 12 additives included two commercial shrinkage‐reducing admixtures (SRAs), two active ingredients of a commercial admixture [one of which was used to establish the quantitative structure–property relationships (QSPR)], two additional classified as potential SRA compounds based on the patent literature, four newly identified compounds predicted by using CAMD and an inverse quantitative structure–property relationship (I‐QSPR), and two other compounds use to establish the QSPR relationship. The newly identified I‐QSPR compounds were targeted for their ability to reduce the surface tension of water, a primary consideration for shrinkage‐reducing activity. Results for both drying shrinkage and autogenous shrinkage indicate that the designed compounds perform similar to commercial admixtures, yet have different chemical functionalities. Hydration data and set measurements were also considered since selection of new SRAs is a multiparameter problem with many constraints. Thus, these newly identified shrinkage‐reducing compounds can potentially provide additional options for use in portland cement concrete applications.
The EU as a Normative Power and the Research on External Perceptions: The Missing Link
Authors: Larsen Henrik
Published: December 2013

In research on European foreign policy two important axes of debate have been running relatively independently of each other for more than a decade: the study of the European Union as a normative power (NPE) and the study of external perceptions of the EU. However, the studies of external perception offer some findings that are central for the NPE debate. This article's argument is that the external perceptions literature points to a limited (if still identifiable) perception of the EU as a normative power depending on the geographical area. By comparison, the image of a powerful economic actor is prevalent. The article raises the question of whether the thin and geographically varied character of the perceptions relating to the EU as a normative power justifies the general designation of NPE. A new agenda focusing on geographical differences and interaction with other sources of power is outlined.
Edwardsiellosis in farmed turbot, Scophthalmus maximus (L.), associated with an unusual variant of Edwardsiella tarda: a clinical, aetiological and histopathological study
Authors: Qin L , Xu J , Wang Y G
Published: December 2013

During 2005 and 2010, a survey of edwardsiellosis on eight turbot, Scophthalmus maximus (L.), farms was conducted in China. This report presents the detailed results of the study on this disease. Diseased turbot displayed two distinct types of gross signs: black discoloration of the dorsal skin on the posterior portion of the body; and red cutaneous foci on the ventral side. Internally, the most pronounced clinical signs in all fish examined were enlarged kidneys. The causal agent of the disease was finally proved to be one species of bacterium that was identified as Edwardsiella tarda by physiological and biochemical tests, API 32E and 16S ribosomal RNA sequence analysis. It is noteworthy that unlike the commonly described E. tarda strains, the isolates in this study were non‐motile strains without flagella. A histopathological study revealed that E. tarda infection was systemic in turbot and that kidney showed the most significant pathological changes, including acute focal necrosis, an influx of macrophages and formation of granuloma. The most common histopathological characteristics of this disease are the proliferation of macrophage in various organs and formation of granuloma. In addition, this article also gave background information on the disease and presented the results of virulence tests with the E. tarda strain identified in this study.
Clinical outcomes of a cohort series of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma in a hepatitis B virus‐endemic area
Authors: Kwak Hee‐Won , Park Joong‐Won , Nam Byung‐Ho , Yu Ami , Woo Sang Myung , Kim Tae Hyun , Kim Seong Hoon , Koh Young Hwan , Kim Hyun Beom , Park Sang Jae , Lee Woo Jin , Hong Eun Kyung , Kim Chang‐Min
Published: December 2013

Background and Aims

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and compare the findings with that of a previous cohort.

Methods

Overall, 1972 HCC patients diagnosed and treated at the National Cancer Center, Korea between 2004 and 2009 were enrolled. The data of this cohort were compared with those of a previous cohort (2000–2003) from the same institution.

Results

In all (mean age, 56.4 years; 1642 men), 74.6% was hepatitis B virus (HBV) positive, 81.6% were Child–Pugh (CP) class A, and 64.4% was Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage C. The modified Union for International Cancer Control (mUICC) stage I, II, III, IVa, and IVb was found in 8.9%, 29.6%, 24.8%, 23.1%, and 13.6% patients, respectively. The most common initial treatment was transarterial chemotherapy (58.3%), followed by resection (18.6%). The 5‐year survival rate of BCLC stage 0, A, B, and C were 79.6%, 67.2%, 33.9%, and 17.1%, respectively. The performance status, BCLC stage, mUICC stage, CP class, model for end‐stage liver disease score, tumor characteristics, portal vein tumor invasion, and serum alpha‐fetoprotein level proved to be independent prognostic variables. Overall survival in the present cohort was better than that in the previous cohort (hazard ratio, 0.829; 95% confidence interval, 0.754–0.912), especially for advanced HCC patients with HBV‐positive status.

Conclusions

This cohort study provides valuable insights into the characteristics of HCC in Korean patients. Our findings may help develop clinical trials, treatment strategies, and prognosis systems for HCC patients in HBV‐endemic areas.
Impact of postoperative hepatitis B virus reactivation in hepatocellular carcinoma patients who formerly had naturally suppressed virus
Authors: Lee Jung Il , Kim Ja Kyung , Chang Hye Young , Lee Jin‐Woo , Kim Joon Mee , Chung Hyun Jung , Kim Young Soo , Lee Kwan Sik
Published: December 2013

Background and Aim

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication detected before the resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is to be controlled by antiviral agents. However, management strategy for patients with preoperatively undetectable HBV DNA without antiviral therapy is not clearly delineated. This study investigated viral reactivation after the liver resection in non‐replicating HBV DNA‐related HCC patients and its impact on the surgical outcome.

Methods

From 198 patients that underwent liver resection due to HBV‐related HCC, 101 patients who had serially checked serum HBV DNA were analyzed.

Results

From 101 patients, 33 patients had baseline undetectable HBV DNA. Eleven patients (11/33, 33.3%) had viral replication after the liver resection. The postoperative viral reactivation (HR: 2.144; 95% CI: 1.122–4.097; P = 0.021), along with the existence of satellite nodules (HR: 3.034; 95% CI: 1.1.376–6.689; P = 0.006), existence of microvascular invasion (HR: 2.479; 95% CI: 1.303–4.718; P = 0.006), and HBeAg positivity (HR: 2.059; 95% CI: 1.155–3.670; P = 0.014) predicted recurrence after the surgery. Quantification of intrahepatic total and covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) was done in 14 patients whose baseline serum HBV DNA was undetectable without the use of antiviral agent. Amount of intrahepatic cccDNA expressed as copies/hepatocyte in patients with postoperative viral reactivation showed significantly higher than those in patients with sustained negative serum HBV DNA (P = 0.010).

Conclusions

This study shows that naturally suppressed preoperative HBV without application of antiviral agent does not ensure undetectable serum HBV after the surgery, and postoperative viral reactivation might be associated with HCC recurrence.
Beneficial effects of dual vascular endothelial growth factor receptor/fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibitor brivanib alaninate in cirrhotic portal hypertensive rats
Authors: Lin Han‐Chieh , Huang Yi‐Tsau , Yang Ying‐Ying , Lee Pei‐Chang , Hwang Lih‐Hwa , Lee Wei‐Ping , Kuo Ying‐Ju , Lee Kuei‐Chuan , Hsieh Yun‐Cheng , Liu Ren‐Shyan
Published: December 2013

Background and Aim

Vascular endothelial (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF)‐induced hepatic stellate (HSCs) and liver endothelial cells (LECs) activation accelerates hepatic fibrogenesis and angiogenesis, and hemodynamic dysarrangements in cirrhosis. VEGF targeting agents had been reported as potential drugs for cirrhosis. However, the evaluation of effects of dual VEGF/FGF targeting agent in cirrhosis is still limited.

Methods

Using hemodynamic parameters, blood chemistry, primary isolated HSCs and LECs, histology, and digital imaging, we assess the effects of 2‐week brivanib alaninate, a dual VEGFR/FGFR inhibitor, treatment in the pathophysiology of bile duct‐ligated‐cirrhotic rats.

Results

Fibrogenic and angiogenic markers in the serum and liver of bile duct‐ligated‐cirrhotic rats, including hydroxyproline, transforming growth factor‐β1, angiopoietin‐1, VEGF, FGF‐2, endocan and phosphorylated‐VEGFR2/VEGFR2, and phosphorylated‐FGFR/FGFR together with hepatic CD31/angiopoietin‐1 expressions (immunohistochemistry staining), angiogenesis (micro‐computed tomography scan), microcirculatory dysfunction (in vivo miscroscopy and in situ liver perfusion study), portal hypertension, and hyperdynamic circulations (colored microsphere methods) were markedly suppressed and ameliorated by brivanib alaninate treatment. In in vitro study, acute brivanib alaninate incubation inhibited the transforming growth factor‐β1‐induced HSCs contraction/migration and VEGF‐induced LECs angiogenesis. Concomitantly, the overexpression of various fibrogenic and angiogenic markers in HSCs and LECs, and in their culture media, was increased in parallel and these changes were suppressed by acute brivanib alaninate incubation.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that brivanib alaninate targeting multiple mechanisms and working in the different pathogenic steps of the complications of cirrhotic rats with portal hypertension.
Safety and efficacy of a novel disposable sheathed gastroscopic system in clinical practice
Authors: Jin Peng , Wang Xin , Yu Dong‐liang , Li Ai‐qin , Wang Hai‐hong , Meng Ming‐ming , Li Shi‐rong , Liu Duan‐qi , Sheng Jian‐qiu , Cai Qiang
Published: December 2013

Background and Aim

Endoscopic examinations carry a potential risk of cross‐infection, and the traditional reprocessing method is time consuming. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of a novel disposable sheathed gastroscope system in clinical practice in comparison with the conventional gastroscope.

Methods

There were two phases in the study. In phase 1, 20 patients with hepatitis B were randomized into two groups: the sheathed group was examined with the novel disposable sheathed gastroscope (n = 10) and the conventional group with the conventional gastroscope (n = 10). Microbiologic tests were performed on each endoscope afterwards. In the second phase, 1120 patients were randomized again into the same two groups with 568 and 552 patients in the sheathed group and the conventional group, respectively. The time duration of the endoscopic procedure and reprocessing were measured. The pathology detection rate of endoscopic examinations, the patients' subjective feelings, and problems occurred during procedures were also recorded.

Results

The total instrument turn‐around time in the phase 2 sheathed group (9.9 ± 1.3 min) was significantly shorter than the conventional group (39.0 ± 1.4 min, P = 0.000). The mean procedural time was slightly longer in the sheathed group than in the conventional group (4.9 ± 1.4 vs 4.1 ± 1.3 min, P = 0.000). However, the duration of endoscopic reprocessing was much shorter (4.9 ± 0.2 vs 35 ± 0.2 min, P = 0.000). No significant differences were observed in patient discomfort, optical clarity, or pathology detection rate. There were no complications in either group, and no microbial contamination was detected in phase 1 of the study.

Conclusions

Compared with the conventional gastroscope, the novel disposable sheathed gastroendoscope is safe and more efficient in clinical practice.
Efficacy of simethicone and N‐acetylcysteine as premedication in improving visibility during upper endoscopy
Authors: Chang Wei‐Kuo , Yeh Ming‐Kung , Hsu Hsuang‐Chun , Chen Hsuan‐Wei , Hu Ming‐Kuan
Published: December 2013

Background

Simethicone and N‐acetylcysteine have been widely used in improving endoscopic visibility. However, the optimal dose, volume, and dosing time for the premedication regimen are still unclear.

Aim

Our aim was to assess the efficacy of premedication in improving endoscopic visibility and determine the contributions of dose, volume, and premedication time.

Methods

A total of 1849 patients were prospectively treated in three groups: group A: 100‐mg simethicone suspension in 5 mL water; group B: 100‐mg simethicone suspension in 100 mL water; and group C: 100‐mg simethicone suspension in 100 mL water containing 200 mg N‐acetylcysteine. Mucosa visibility was assessed at seven sites of upper gastrointestinal tract. The sum of scores was considered as total mucosal visibility score (TMVS).

Results

The upper body of stomach had the worst visibility score for all groups. TMVS of groups B and C were significantly lower than those of group A. Group C had a significantly fewer patients requiring endoscopic flushing than groups A and B. The TMVS for groups B and C were significantly lower than for group A within 30 min of beginning premedication. Beyond 30 min of premedication, there was no significant difference in the TMVS among groups.

Conclusions

Premedication using 100 mg simethicone in 100 mL of water improves endoscopic visibility. Addition of N‐acetylcysteine to simethicone in 100 mL of water reduces the need for endoscopic flushing. For patients unable to tolerate a large fluid volume, a 5‐mL simethicone suspension administered more than 30 min prior to upper endoscopy is suggested.
Effects of Intracerebroventricular Infusion of Somatostatin‐14 on Peripheral Glucoregulation in Dogs
Authors: Yavropoulou M. P. , Kotsa K. , Pikilidou M. , Keisisoglou I. , Yovos J. G.
Published: December 2013

Somatostatin (SST) is an inhibitory hormone that regulates numerous biological processes and circulates in two bioactive isoforms: SST‐14 and SST‐28. SST‐14 is the predominant form in the hypothalamus and regulates the secretion of growth hormone (GH) (directly) and of thyroid‐stimulating hormone (indirectly). In the periphery, SST is a potent inhibitor of glucagon and insulin secretion. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effect of i.c.v. administration of SST‐14 on glucose metabolism. Twenty healthy adult dogs randomly received either a bolus i.c.v. infusion of 5, 25 or 50 μg of SST‐14 or an equivalent amount of artificial cerebrospinal fluid through an epicranial apparatus during fasting. The same experiment was repeated during concomitant intraduodenal infusion of glucose solution through a Mann–Bollman fistula. Serum levels of glucose, insulin and glucose‐dependent insulinotrophic peptide (GIP), plasma SST and serum GH levels were assayed. Circulating levels of SST and GH did not change significantly during i.c.v. infusions. Bolus infusion of 50 μg of SST‐14 produced an increase in serum glucose levels at 10 min (94 ± 2.5 mg/dl at baseline versus 101 ± 3 mg/dl, P = 0.04) and significantly suppressed insulin levels, reaching maximal suppression at 60 min after infusion (9 ± 1.3 μIU/ml at baseline versus 4.6 ± 0.5 μIU/ml P = 0.04) in fasting animals. Similar results were obtained during intraduodenal infusion of glucose through a Mann–Bollman fistula. GIP levels did not change significantly during i.c.v. administration of SST‐14. Intracerebroventricular infusion of SST‐14 increases glucose and suppresses insulin levels in the periphery independently of circulating SST levels.