bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of the Partitioning Coefficient in Liquid‐Solid Chromatography using COSMO‐RS
Authors: Reithinger Martin , Arlt Wolfgang
Published: January 2011

For the first time the a‐priori prediction method COSMO‐RS is used to predict liquid chromatographic partitioning coefficients. Previous methods are based on several adjustable parameters used to describe physico‐chemical properties of the mobile and stationary phase in the separation system examined. Due to the empirical parameter fitting, predictivity of these methods is limited. The COSMO‐RS approach replaces adjustable parameters by quantum chemistry. Furthermore the complete thermodynamic information of the separation system is known. An empirical method to improve the results is shown. Its validation comprises various eluent systems.It is demonstrated that an a‐priori choice of appropriate phases for chromatographic separation systems is possible. Furthermore it is a tool to guide chemists how to synthesize new stationary phases.
A model‐driven approach to predicting dependability of WS‐CDL based service composition
Authors: Xia Yunni , Dai Gang , Li Jia , Sun Tianhao , Zhu Qingsheng
Published: January 2011

Web Service Choreography Description Language (WS‐CDL) is a mainstream standard for the description of peer‐to‐peer collaborations for the participants of service composition. To predict the dependability of composite service processes specified in WS‐CDL allows service designers and user to decided whether the process meets the nonfunction requirements of trustworthiness, and to choose the process with better dependability to those with identical function. Unfortunately, very limited research attention is paid to dependability of WS‐CDL. In this paper, we propose a model‐driven approach for dependability prediction of composite service built on WS‐CDL. The main innovation of this research includes a complete translation from WS‐CDL to generalized stochastic Petri nets (GSPN) and a dependability (using process‐normal‐completion‐probability as the metric of dependability of service composition) calculation algorithm based on GSPN. We also validate the accuracy of the approach in the experimental study by showing 95% confidence intervals obtained from experimental dependability results that cover the corresponding theoretical prediction values. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performance and deployment evaluation of a parallel application on a private Cloud
Authors: Mc Evoy Giacomo V. , Schulze Bruno , Garcia Eduardo L. M.
Published: January 2011

In this paper we present the case study of an application of a parallel simulation optimization deployed on a private Cloud. The compute‐intensive application uses a Master/Worker model, supporting communication over both Java RMI and Globus Grid Services between the nodes. The Master deploys Workers over a Eucalyptus Cloud using the Nimbus Context Broker for just‐in‐time configuration and runtime Worker discovery. The computational performance of the Workers under different communication mechanisms and deployment scenarios is presented in an attempt to evaluate the use of Virtual Machines in a Cloud as a tool to achieve application scaling. The deployment of this particular application was crafted to support on‐the‐fly addition of working nodes. The case study suggests a deployment pattern that shapes some requirements and considerations of a scalable Globus‐driven Platform as a Service Cloud. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spatial Distribution of Ventilation and Perfusion: Mechanisms and Regulation
Authors: Glenny Robb W. , Robertson H. Thomas
Published: January 2011

With increasing spatial resolution of regional ventilation and perfusion, it has become more apparent that ventilation and blood flow are quite heterogeneous in the lung. A number of mechanisms contribute to this regional variability, including hydrostatic gradients, pleural pressure gradients, lung compressibility, and the geometry of the airway and vascular trees. Despite this marked heterogeneity in both ventilation and perfusion, efficient gas exchange is possible through the close regional matching of the two. Passive mechanisms, such as the shared effect of gravity and the matched branching of vascular and airway trees, create efficient gas exchange through the strong correlation between ventilation and perfusion. Active mechanisms that match local ventilation and perfusion play little if no role in the normal healthy lung but are important under pathologic conditions. © 2011 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol1:373‐395, 2011.
Stress Transmission within the Cell
Authors: Stamenović Dimitrije , Wang Ning
Published: January 2011

An outstanding problem in cell biology is how cells sense mechanical forces and how those forces affect cellular functions. During past decades, it has become evident that the deformable cytoskeleton (CSK), an intracellular network of various filamentous biopolymers, provides a physical basis for transducing mechanical signals into biochemical responses. To understand how mechanical forces regulate cellular functions, it is necessary to first understand how the CSK develops mechanical stresses in response to applied forces, and how those stresses are propagated through the CSK where various signaling molecules are immobilized. New experimental techniques have been developed to quantify cytoskeletal mechanics, which together with new computational approaches have given rise to new theories and models for describing mechanics of living cells. In this article, we discuss current understanding of cell biomechanics by focusing on the biophysical mechanisms that are responsible for the development and transmission of mechanical stresses in the cell and their effect on cellular functions. We compare and contrast various theories and models of cytoskeletal mechanics, emphasizing common mechanisms that those theories are built upon, while not ignoring irreconcilable differences. We highlight most recent advances in the understanding of mechanotransduction in the cytoplasm of living cells and the central role of the cytoskeletal prestress in propagating mechanical forces along the cytoskeletal filaments to activate cytoplasmic enzymes. It is anticipated that advances in cell mechanics will help developing novel therapeutics to treat pulmonary diseases like asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. © 2011 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol1:499‐524, 2011.
Enhanced Photostability from CdSe(S)/ZnO Core/Shell Quantum Dots and Their Use in Biolabeling
Authors: Aldeek Fadi , Mustin Christian , Balan Lavinia , Medjahdi Ghouti , Roques‐Carmes Thibault , Arnoux Philippe , Schneider Raphaël
Published: January 2011

We report on the preparation and on the photophysical and structural characterization of alloyed CdSe(S) nanocrystals, which are covered by a ZnO shell. CdSe(S) QDs were prepared by reaction of CdCl2 with NaHSe in the presence of 3‐mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) under hydrothermal conditions. The incorporation of sulfur arises from the surface‐mediated MPA hydrolysis on the growing QD surface. Water‐dispersible CdSe(S) QDs were successfully capped with a ZnO shell obtained by basic hydrolysis of Zn(OAc)2. The experimental results from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging and powder X‐ray diffractometry (XRD) analyses indicate that the core/shell CdSe(S)/ZnO QDs have a very small diameter (ca. 2.8 nm) and exhibit a face‐centered cubic crystal structure. Our results show that core/shell CdSe(S)/ZnO QDs have a higher photostability than CdSe(S) cores. CdSe(S)/ZnO QDs have potential applications asfluorescent biological labels and were successfully used for imaging Schewanella oneidensis bacterial biofilms.
Functional division of hippocampal area CA1 via modulatory gating of entorhinal cortical inputs
Authors: Ito Hiroshi T. , Schuman Erin M.
Published: January 2011

The hippocampus receives two streams of information, spatial and nonspatial, via major afferent inputs from the medial (MEC) and lateral entorhinal cortexes (LEC). The MEC and LEC projections in the temporoammonic pathway are topographically organized along the transverse‐axis of area CA1. The potential for functional segregation of area CA1, however, remains relatively unexplored. Here, we demonstrated differential novelty‐induced c‐Fos expression along the transverse‐axis of area CA1 corresponding to topographic projections of MEC and LEC inputs. We found that, while novel place exposure induced a uniform c‐Fos expression along the transverse‐axis of area CA1, novel object exposure primarily activated the distal half of CA1 neurons. In hippocampal slices, we observed distinct presynaptic properties between LEC and MEC terminals, and application of either DA or NE produced a largely selective influence on one set of inputs (LEC). Finally, we demonstrated that differential c‐Fos expression along the transverse axis of area CA1 was largely abolished by an antagonist of neuromodulatory receptors, clozapine. Our results suggest that neuromodulators can control topographic TA projections allowing the hippocampus to differentially encode new information along the transverse axis of area CA1. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The administration of BDNF and GDNF to the brain via PLGA microparticles patterned within a degradable PEG‐based hydrogel: Protein distribution and the glial response
Authors: Lampe Kyle J. , Kern Drew S. , Mahoney Melissa J. , Bjugstad Kimberly B.
Published: January 2011

Tailored delivery of neurotrophic factors (NFs) is a critical challenge that continues to inhibit strategies for guidance of axonal growthin vivo. Of particular importance is the ability to recreate innervation of distant brain regions by transplant tissue, for instance rebuilding the nigrostriatal track, one focus in Parkinson's disease research. Many strategies have utilized polymer drug delivery to target NF release in space and time, but combinatorial approaches are needed to deliver multiple NFs at relevant therapeutic times and locations without toxic side effects. Here we engineered a paradigm of PLGA microparticles entrapped within a degradable PEG‐based hydrogel device to locally release two different types of NFs with two different release profiles. Hydrogel/microparticle devices were developed and analyzed for their ability to release GDNF in the caudal area of the brain, near the substantia nigra, or BDNF in the rostral area, near the striatum. The devices delivered their respective NFs in a region localized to within 100 μm of the bridge, but not exclusively to the targeted rostral or caudal ends. BDNF was slowly released over a 56‐day period, whereas a bolus of GDNF was released around 28 days. The timed delivery of NFs from implanted devices significantly reduced the microglial response relative to sham surgeries. Given the coordinated drug delivery ability and reduced localized inflammatory response, this multifaceted PEG hydrogel/PLGA microparticle strategy may be a useful tool for further development in combining tissue engineering and drug delivery, and recreating the nigrostriatal track. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2011.
Audit and feedback: An intervention to improve discharge summary completion
Authors: Dinescu Anca , Fernandez Helen , Ross Joseph S , Karani Reena
Published: January 2011

Discharge summaries (DS) communicate important clinical information from inpatient to outpatient settings. Previous studies noted increased adverse events and rehospitalization due to poor DS quality. We postulated that an audit and feedback intervention of DS completed by geriatric medicine fellows would improve the completeness of their summaries. We conducted a preintervention post intervention study. In phase 1 (AUDIT #1 and FEEDBACK) we scored all DS (n = 89) completed by first year fellows between July 2006 to December 2006 using a 21‐item checklist. Individual performance scores were reviewed with each fellow in 30‐minute feedback sessions. In phase 2 (AUDIT #2) we scored all DS (n = 79) completed after the first phase between February 2007 to July 2007 using the same checklist. Data were analyzed using generalized estimating equations. Fellows were more likely to complete all required DS data after feedback when compared with prior to feedback (91% vs. 71%, P < 0.001). Feedback was also associated with improved admission (93% vs. 70%, P < 0.001), duration of hospitalization (93% vs 78%, P < 0.001), discharge planning (93% vs. 18%, P < 0.02) and postdischarge care (83% vs. 57%., P < 0.001) section‐specific information. In conclusion, audit and feedback sessions were associated with better DS completeness in areas of particular importance to geriatric care. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2011;6:28–32. © 2011 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety among adolescents following the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake in China
Authors: Fan Fang , Zhang Ying , Yang Yanyun , Mo Lei , Liu Xianchen
Published: January 2011

This study examined the symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression among 2,250 adolescents 6 months after the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake in China. Results showed that 15.8%, 40.5%, and 24.5% of participants reported clinical symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression, respectively. Posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression were highly comorbid. Risk factors for symptoms of the 3 disorders were female gender, older age, and earthquake disaster exposure. In addition, the interaction effects of residence (urban/rural) and number of siblings of study subjects on symptoms of the 3 disorders were examined. Implications of findings on intervention and prevention of mental health problems among adolescents after experiencing earthquake disasters are discussed.
Biochemical and metabolomic phenotyping in the identification of a vitamin D responsive metabotype for markers of the metabolic syndrome
Authors: O'Sullivan Aifric , Gibney Michael J. , Connor Aine O. , Mion Brian , Kaluskar Soniya , Cashman Kevin D. , Flynn Albert , Shanahan Fergus , Brennan Lorraine
Published: January 2011

Scope: Metabolic phenotyping promises to be a useful tool in human intervention studies. This study examined whether metabolic phenotyping could identify responders to vitamin D supplementation in terms of the metabolic syndrome.

Methods and results: In a double‐blind, randomised placebo‐controlled dietary intervention subjects were assigned to receive 15 μg vitamin D3 or placebo daily. Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and biochemical markers of the metabolic syndrome were measured at baseline and following the 4‐wk intervention. k‐means clustering and 1H‐NMR metabolomic analysis were used to explore responsive phenotypes. Vitamin D supplementation significantly increased serum 25(OH)D to an endpoint concentration of 78.1±20.0 nmol/L (p<0.001). There was no effect of supplementation on the measured markers of the metabolic syndrome. k‐means cluster analysis based on 13 biochemical markers of the metabolic syndrome and 25(OH)D concentrations revealed five discrete biomarker clusters. One of these clusters, characterised by lower serum 25(OH)D and higher levels of adipokines, showed significant responses in insulin (15% decrease), homestatic model assessment scores (19% decrease) and c‐reactive protein (54% decrease). Metabolomic analysis revealed further changes and the extent of change in serum vitamin D correlated negatively with changes in glucose.

Conclusion: Overall, metabolic phenotyping revealed a phenotype that was responsive to vitamin D supplementation.
The duplicated rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) T‐box transcription factors 1, tbx1a and tbx1b, are up‐regulated during testicular development
Authors: Yano Ayaka , Nicol Barbara , Guerin Adele , Guiguen Yann
Published: January 2011

Tbx1 is a member of the T‐box transcription factor gene family involved in embryogenesis and organogenesis. Recently, within a pan‐genomic screen using rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) cDNA microarrays, we identified a tbx1 homolog with testicular over‐expression during sex differentiation. Here, we characterized two very similar rainbow trout tbx1 paralogs, tbx1a and tbx1b. In adult tissues, tbx1a expression is restricted to the gonads, with high expression in the testis, while tbx1b is more widely expressed in gonads, gills, brains, muscle, and skin. During gonadal differentiation, both genes are differentially expressed in favor of testis formation shortly after hatching. These genes are expressed in somatic cells surrounding germ cells of the differentiating testis, while no or only weak expression was observed in the differentiating ovary. tbx1a and tbx1b were also both down‐regulated in the differentiating testis during feminization with estrogens and up‐regulated in the differentiating ovary during masculinization with an aromatase inhibitor. These results suggest that tbx1a and tbx1b are probably involved in the regulation of testicular differentiation in rainbow trout. Since Tbx1 is known to interact with the retinoic acid (RA) signaling pathway, we also examined the effect of RA on the rainbow trout tbx1 expression pattern. Expression of tbx1a and tbx1b was down‐regulated in RA‐treated male gonads, suggesting that tbx1 interacts with the RA signaling pathway and thus could be involved in the control of rainbow trout gonadal differentiation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 78:172–180, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Parallel solution to ill‐conditioned FE geomechanical problems
Authors: Ferronato Massimiliano , Janna Carlo , Pini Giorgio
Published: January 2011

Parallel computers are potentially very attractive for the implementation of large size geomechanical models. One of the main difficulties of parallelization, however, relies on the efficient solution of the frequently ill‐conditioned algebraic system arising from the linearization of the discretized equilibrium equations. While very efficient preconditioners have been developed for sequential computers, not much work has been devoted to parallel solution algorithms in geomechanics. The present study investigates the state‐of‐the‐art performance of the factorized sparse approximate inverse (FSAI) as a preconditioner for the iterative solution of ill‐conditioned geomechanical problems. Pre‐and post‐filtration strategies are experimented with to increase the FSAI efficiency. Numerical results show that FSAI exhibits a promising potential for parallel geomechanical models mainly because of its almost ideal scalability. With the present formulation, however, at least 4 or 8 processors are required in the selected test cases to outperform one of the most efficient sequential algorithms available for FE geomechanics, i.e. the multilevel incomplete factorization (MIF). Further research is needed to improve the FSAI efficiency with a more effective selection of the preconditioner non‐zero pattern. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal control problem for an elliptic equation which has exactly two solutions
Authors: Luan Shu , Gao Hang , Li Xiaopei
Published: January 2011

An optimal control problem governed by a class of semilinear non‐well‐posed elliptic equations is discussed in this paper. It is pointed out that the state equation we considered has exactly two solutions and the control domain and cost functional maybe non‐convex. Using the relaxed controls, Pontryagin's maximum principle for the optimal pairs is obtained. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The association of gastroschisis with other congenital anomalies: how important is it?
Authors: Ruano Rodrigo , Picone Olivier , Bernardes Lisandra , Martinovic Jelena , Dumez Yves , Benachi Alexandra
Published: January 2011

Objective

To report the prevalence of the association between gastroschisis and other anomalies, their prenatal characteristics and the postnatal follow‐up.

Method

Prenatal and postnatal data from all patients with gastroschis prenatally diagnosed between January 1998 and December 2006 were reviewed concerning the presence of associated anomalies.

Results

Gastroschisis was prenatally diagnosed in 108 fetuses. Associated anomalies were identified in 14 cases (prevalence of 13.0%), with prenatal diagnosis being made in 5 (35.7%) patients. Postnatal examination revealed the association of other anomalies in nine other newborns not observed during prenatal examinations. Maternal age, parity, gestational age at diagnosis and birth, delivery mode and birth weight were similar in cases with ‘isolated gastroschisis’ and associated anomalies (p > 0.05). Survival rates in the ‘isolated gastroschisis group’ and ‘associated anomaly group’ were 91.5 and 78.6% (p > 0.05), respectively. The median time before oral feeding tended to be longer (but not statistical significantly) in the ‘associated anomaly group’ (32, range: 5–720 days) compared to the ‘isolated gastroschisis group’ (22, range: 5–180 days; p = 0.06), but with a significantly longer permanence in neonatal intensive care unit (p = 0.04).

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of identifying other anomalies when evaluating fetuses with gastroschisis to permit counselling concerning the postnatal outcomes. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Monochorionic diamniotic twin gestations discordant for markedly enlarged nuchal translucency
Authors: Edlow Andrea G. , Reiss Rosemary , Benson Carol B. , Gerrol Pamela , Wilkins‐Haug Louise
Published: January 2011

Objective

To assess karyotypes and outcomes of monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twin pregnancies discordant for markedly enlarged nuchal translucency (NT) in the first trimester.

Method

Brigham and Women's Hospital's ultrasound database was queried to identify all MCDA gestations in which one twin had NT ≥ 3.5 mm and the co‐twin had normal NT. Cytogenetic results, ultrasound findings, and pregnancy outcomes were reviewed.

Results

Of 162 MCDA twin pairs, 11 were discordant for NT ≥ 3.5. Chromosomal abnormalities were present in three cases: one twin pair was concordant for trisomy 18; one pair discordant for mosaic trisomy 2; and one pair discordant for confined placental mosaicism (CPM) (high frequency tetraploidy). Adverse outcomes for twins with euploid or unknown karyotypes included twin reverse arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence, growth discordance, and esophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula.

Conclusion

Postfertilization nondisjunction leading to mosaicism in one fetus, discordant phenotypes yet concordant karyotypes, and discordance for CPM were documented phenomena, supporting karyotyping of both twins. In this case series, discordant NT was a marker for chromosome abnormalities, as well as for complications specific to monochorionic gestations, including TRAP sequence, amniotic fluid discordance, and structural anomalies. Nonetheless, normal fetal anatomy and karyotype were the most common outcomes. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brick tunnel randomization for unequal allocation to two or more treatment groups
Authors: Kuznetsova Olga M. , Tymofyeyev Yevgen
Published: January 2011

Studies with unequal allocation to two or more treatment groups often require a large block size for permuted block allocation. This could present a problem in small studies, multi‐center studies, or adaptive design dose‐finding studies. In this paper, an allocation procedure, which generalizes the maximal procedure by Berger, Ivanova, and Knoll to the case of K⩾2 treatment groups and any allocation ratio, is offered. Brick tunnel (BT) randomization requires the allocation path drawn in the k‐dimensional space to stay close to the allocation ray that corresponds to the targeted allocation ratio. Specifically, it requires the allocation path to be confined to the set of the k‐dimensional unitary cubes that are pierced by the allocation ray (the ‘brick tunnel’). The important property of the BT randomization is that the transition probabilities at each node within the tunnel are defined in such a way that the unconditional allocation ratio is the same for every allocation step. This property is not necessarily met by other allocation procedures that implement unequal allocation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Constrained S‐estimators for linear mixed effects models with covariance components
Authors: Chervoneva Inna , Vishnyakov Mark
Published: January 2011

Linear mixed effects (LME) models are increasingly used for analyses of biological and biomedical data. When the multivariate normal assumption is not adequate for an LME model, then a robust estimation approach is preferable to the maximum likelihood one. M‐estimators were considered before for robust estimation of the LME models, and recently a constrained S‐estimator was proposed. This S‐estimator cannot be applied directly to LME models with correlated error terms and vector random effects with correlated dimensions. Therefore, a modification is proposed, which extends application of the constrained S‐estimator to the LME models for multivariate responses with correlated dimensions and to longitudinal data. Also, a new computational algorithm is developed for computing constrained S‐estimators. Performance of the S‐estimators based on the original Tukey's biweight and translated biweight is evaluated in a small simulation study with repeated multivariate responses with correlated dimensions. The proposed methodology is applied to jointly analyze repeated measures on three cholesterol components, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres in Human Glioma Stem Cells
Authors: Silvestre David C. , Pineda José R. , Hoffschir Françoise , Studler Jeanne-Marie , Mouthon Marc-André , Pflumio Françoise , Junier Marie-Pierre , Chneiweiss Hervé , Boussin François D.
Published: January 2011

Cancer stem cells are increasingly recognized as major therapeutic targets. We report here the isolation of glioma stem cells (GSCs) maintaining telomere length through a telomerase-independent mechanism known as alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALTs). TG20 cells were isolated from a glioblastoma multiforme, which had the ALT phenotype. They have no detectable telomerase activity and extremely long and heterogeneous telomeres colocalizing with promyelocytic leukemia bodies. The cancer stem cell potential of TG20 cells was confirmed based on their expression of neural stem cell markers, their capacity of in vitro long-term proliferation and to form intracranial tumors in immune-deficient mice. Interestingly, we found that both in vitro and in vivo TG20 cells were significantly more resistant to ionizing radiation than GSCs with telomerase activity. Analysis of DNA damage foci, DNA double-strand breaks repair, and chromosome instability suggest that radiation resistance was related to interference of ALT pathway with DNA damage response. Therefore, our data show for the first time that the ALT pathway can confer to cancer stem cells the capacity to sustain long-term proliferation as telomerase activity and importantly may also affect treatment efficiency. TG20 cells are thus the first cellular model of GSCs displaying ALT and should prove to be useful for the development of specific treatment strategies.
Correlation between pre‐ and postnatal cerebral magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Dhouib A. , Blondiaux E. , Moutard M. L. , Billette de Villemeur T. , Chalard F. , Jouannic J. M. , Ducou le Pointe H. , Garel C.
Published: January 2011

Objectives

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of fetal cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on a large cohort and to compare pre‐ and postnatal MRI data.

Methods

This prospective study included all cases referred to our unit for fetal cerebral MRI examination between June 2006 and December 2009 and which underwent at least one postnatal MRI examination. Cases in which there was termination of pregnancy, fetal death or stillbirth were excluded. The pre‐ and postnatal diagnoses established by MRI were compared and divided into five subgroups: same diagnosis on pre‐ and postnatal MRI (Group 1); same diagnosis but different appearance related to the natural course of the disease (Group 2); different diagnosis (related to limitations of fetal MRI) (Group 3); same diagnosis but with additional findings discovered on postnatal MRI examination (Group 4); or same diagnosis but different appearance related to the natural course of the disease (as in Group 2) and associated with additional findings discovered on postnatal MRI examination (Group 5). The prognostic impact of a possible disagreement between pre‐ and postnatal findings was evaluated.

Results

One hundred fetuses were included. Fetal MRI was performed at a mean gestational age of 33 (range, 24–39) weeks and postnatal MRI at a mean age of 3.5 months. There were 53 cases classified as Group 1, 32 in Group 2, four in Group 3, 10 in Group 4 and one in Group 5. Thus, in 15 cases (Groups 3–5), there were discrepancies between pre‐ and postnatal findings (mostly related to corpus callosum anatomy, cortical and migration disorders). The discrepancy was judged to have a prognostic impact in 9/15 cases. Two postnatal MRI examinations were performed in eight cases, in one of which the second examination showed subependymal heterotopia which were not detectable on the first examination.

Conclusion

Pre‐ and postnatal MRI data showed good agreement in 85% of cases. There was disagreement with a prognostic impact in 9% of cases. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Youth as content producers in a niche social network site
Authors: Greenhow Christine
Published: January 2011

Most U.S. teenagers participate in online social network sites, devoting hours to these networks, often at the expense of other leisure‐time activities. This article describes young people's activities within one topic‐focused niche network, outlining its unique features and the role of young people as content producers within and beyond the space. Links between youth's online contributions and their interest, self‐expression, social connections, and civic involvement are discussed.
“MXing it up”: How African adolescents may affect social change through mobile phone use
Authors: Napolitano Christopher M.
Published: January 2011

This chapter outlines mobile phone use among African (particularly South African) adolescents. With an estimated 350 million active mobile phone subscriptions, improving network infrastructure, low‐cost Internet‐ready handsets, innovative programs and applications, mobiles in Africa, and their increasingly younger, increasingly poorer, and increasingly savvy users have the potential to act as conduits for local and regional socially just change. This broad‐based connectedness not only provides access to information, but also, and crucially, connects individuals and their social, intellectual, and financial capital. It may represent a powerful, transformative shift in a region where access to similar technologies was historically limited to a privileged few. In order to best leverage these developments and opportunities to promote socially just change, I argue that future mobile‐based programs or initiatives in the region should be based in both contemporary developmental systems theory as well as current, popular mobile applications and services.
Cadmium(II) Complexes with 2‐Hydroxy‐1‐naphthoate Ligand: Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Emission Properties
Authors: Hu Min , Yang Xiao‐Gang , Zhang Qiang , Zhou Li‐Ming , Fang Shao‐Ming , Liu Chun‐Sen
Published: January 2011

Two new CdII complexes [Cd(L)2(phen)]2 (1) and {Cd(L)2(4bpy)1.5}∞ (2) (L = 2‐hydroxy‐1‐naphthoate, phen = 1,10‐phenanthroline, and 4bpy = 4,4′‐bipyridine) were prepared by slow solvent evaporation from mixtures of 2‐hydroxy‐1‐naphthoic acid (HL) and Cd(ClO4)2·6H2O in the presence of auxiliary phen and 4bpy co‐ligands. Single‐crystal X‐ray analyses show that complex 1 features a dinuclear structure, which is assembled into a one‐dimensional (1D) chain, and further into a two‐dimensional (2D) network by intermolecular π···π stacking and C–H···π supramolecular interactions. Complex 2 has a 1D ladder‐like chain, which is further interlinked to form a 2D network by the co‐effects of the interchain C–H···O hydrogen bonds as well as C–H···π interactions. The structural differences between 1 and 2 are attributed to the different N‐donor auxiliary ligands, phen for 1 and 4bpy for 2. Moreover, complexes 1 and 2 exhibit strong solid‐state luminescences at room temperature, which mainly originate from the intraligand π → π* transitions of L.
Process of Formation of the Aurivillius Phase Bi3NbTiO9 and Its Substitutes
Authors: Missyul Alexander B. , Kuzmova Tatiana G. , Zvereva Irina A.
Published: January 2011

Two series of the magnetically substituted Aurivillius phases, Bi3NbTi1–xMnxO9 and Bi2LnNbTiO9 (Ln = Nd–Ho), were synthesized. The substitution was found to be limited in both cases. The formation mechanism of the unsubstituted compound Bi3NbTiO9 was proposed on the basis of both isothermal and constant rate heating data. The stability of the derivatives of the intermediate compound Bi4Ti3O12 appears to be responsible for the observed substitution limits. The kinetics of formation of Bi3NbTiO9 from the binary oxides and the intermediate compounds were studied.
Safe Limited-Open Carpal Tunnel Release in the Presence of Aberrant Anatomy
Authors: Gannon Caitlin R. , Harlan Jill , Baratz Mark E.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The presence of aberrant anatomy during a limited-open carpal tunnel release does not require conversion to an open procedure. We describe the occurrence of aberrant anatomy seen during limited-open carpal tunnel release, and suggest the safest way to proceed with carpal tunnel release once aberrant anatomy is encountered.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was completed for patients who underwent limited-open carpal tunnel release between January 2000 and June 2007. The surgical record was examined to determine if any aberrant anatomy was encountered during the procedure.

Results

Of the 1,227 hands operated on, 69 anomalies were identified. Two carpal tunnel releases were converted to open releases after it was determined that the aberrant motor branches precluded safe release with a limited-open technique Conclusions An understanding of anatomical variations combined with vigilance and careful dissection enhances the chance for safe and effective limited-open carpal tunnel release.
Ethische Aspekte von Versorgungsgerechtigkeit
Authors: Wilp Thomas
Published: January 2011

Einleitung

Das ethische Problem der Versorgungsgerechtigkeit im Gesundheitswesen ist im Wesentlichen ein Verteilungsproblem. Die Debatte um die Frage der Verteilungsgerechtigkeit wird seit Jahren kontrovers geführt. Von politischer Seite wird derzeit das ökonomische Wettbewerbsprinzip zur Grundlage der Gesundheitsversorgung erklärt. Was bedeutet dieses für das deutsche Gesundheitssystem und wie wirkt sich dieses auf die ethischen Ansprüche eines solidarischen Gesundheitssystems aus?
IRRIGATION WATER PRODUCTIVITY AS AFFECTED BY WATER MANAGEMENT IN A SMALL-SCALE IRRIGATION SCHEME IN THE BLUE NILE BASIN, ETHIOPIA
Authors: DERIB SISAY DEMEKU , DESCHEEMAEKER KATRIEN , HAILESLASSIE AMARE , AMEDE TILAHUN
Published: January 2011

In Ethiopia, irrigation is mainly implemented in small-scale irrigation schemes, which are often characterized by low water productivity. This study reports on the efficiency and productivity of a typical small-scale irrigation scheme in the highlands of the Blue Nile, Ethiopia. Canal water flows and the volume of irrigation water applied were measured at field level. Grain and crop residue biomass and grass biomass production along the canals were also measured. To triangulate the measurements, the irrigation farm management, effects of water logging around irrigation canals, farm water distribution mechanisms, effects of night irrigation and water losses due to soil cracking created by prolonged irrigation were closely observed. The average canal water loss from the main, the secondary and the field canals was 2.58, 1.59 and 0.39 l s−1 100 m−1, representing 4.5, 4.0 and 26% of the total water flow respectively. About 0.05% of the loss was attributed to grass production for livestock, while the rest was lost through evaporation and canal seepage. Grass production for livestock feed had a land productivity of 6190.5 kg ha−1 and a water productivity of 0.82 kg m−3. Land productivity for straw and grain was 2048 and 770 kg ha−1, respectively, for teff, and 1864 kg ha−1 and 758 kg ha−1, respectively, for wheat. Water productivities of the crops varied from 0.2 to 1.63 kg m−3. A significant volume of water was lost from small-scale irrigation systems mainly because farmers' water application did not match crop needs. The high price incurred by pumped irrigation positively affected water management by minimizing water losses and forced farmers to use deficit irrigation. Improving water productivity of small-scale irrigation requires integrated interventions including night storage mechanisms, optimal irrigation scheduling, empowerment of farmers to maintain canals and proper irrigation schedules.
LIVESTOCK WATER PRODUCTIVITY IN A WATER STRESSED ENVIRONMENT IN NORTHERN ETHIOPIA
Authors: MEKONNEN SEMIRA , DESCHEEMAEKER KATRIEN , TOLERA ADUGNA , AMEDE TILAHUN
Published: January 2011

Agricultural systems of Northern Ethiopia are under pressure from demographic expansion leading to land degradation and increasing water scarcity. Livestock water productivity (LWP) is an important component in improving overall productivity in mixed crop-livestock systems. The objective of the study was to characterize the existing farming system in a typical water stressed environment in the Ethiopian highlands in terms of crop and livestock production and to assess LWP at household level. To this end, the characteristic watershed of Lenche Dima watershed was chosen. An exploratory assessment of LWP variables and potential differences between farmers' wealth classes was conducted based on a survey of 54 sample households and focus group discussions. LWP was determined as the ratio of beneficial outputs over used water. We used market values of livestock products and services to unify the livestock outputs. Water used to produce the livestock outputs was determined based on water consumption to produce the feed. The overall water used per household for livestock production ranged from 3079 ± 2335 (s.d.) m3per year to 11 975 ± 4080 (s.d.) m3per year for poor and better-off households, respectively. If fully valued as fuel and fertilizer, manure contributed an overall 34% of the total financial livestock output, followed by draught power (22%), transport (17%) and milk production (16%). LWP ranged from 0.07 to 0.09 US$ m−3and was not significantly different between farmers' wealth classes. The small differences were an indication that all farmer types had very limited access to potential LWP improvements through increased feed quality and quantity, improved animal husbandry and better veterinary care.
A tale of two kingdoms: Ava and Pegu in the fifteenth century
Authors: Aung-Thwin Michael
Published: January 2011

Over a half century after the great ‘classical’ kingdom of Pagan that produced the ‘golden age’ of Myanmar had declined in the first decade of the fourteenth century, the kingdoms of Ava and Pegu appeared. Thereafter, for the next century and a half, both dominated the land. While Ava was an ‘upstream’ agrarian kingdom ruling mostly Upper Myanmar, Pegu was a ‘downstream’ commercial polity with hegemony over Lower Myanmar. However, and contrary to convention that the history of fifteenth-century Myanmar was an ethnic struggle between two irreconcilable Burmese and Mon populations, their relationship should be characterised more as a dualism of different geo-political and economic factors instead. Indeed, the history of that ‘upstream–downstream’ relationship between Ava and Pegu established lasting patterns that became, thereafter, part of the fabric of Myanmar's history until today.
An uncivil state of affairs: Fascism and anti-Catholicism in Thailand, 1940–1944
Authors: Strate Shane
Published: January 2011

The 1940 Franco-Thai border conflict coincided with the beginning of a four-year campaign to weaken the Catholic Church's position in Thailand. The government closed down schools, confiscated property and imprisoned clergy. Angry mobs looted and burned churches, while the local populace boycotted businesses owned by Catholic Thais. The state-led persecution was part of a broad effort to deal with the legacy of western imperialism in Thailand. Catholicism's strong association with French colonialism, combined with France's decline, made the Church the ideal target for anti-imperialist forces. This overlooked incident provides strong evidence that Phibun Songkhram's strategy was not simply to survive the war, as historians have often claimed. The anti-Catholic campaign, which complicated the country's post-war status, was part of an attempt to re-position the country vis-à-vis the West and provide complete independence for Thailand.
Individual imaginings: The religio-nationalist pilgrimages of Haji Sulong Abdulkadir al-Fatani
Authors: Ockey James
Published: January 2011

Studies of the formation of national identity have highlighted the importance of national pilgrimages, akin to sacred religious pilgrimages. However, less attention has been paid to the effect of religious pilgrimages on national identities. In this article, I examine the ways that religious pilgrimages have shaped identities in the Jawi community, particularly early in the twentieth century, when nationalism spread through Southeast Asia. Given the deeply personal nature of pilgrimages, I do this primarily through an exploration of the religious pilgrimage and later life of one well-known leader from Pattani, Haji Sulong Abdulkadir al-Fatani. I find that this approach leads to a more nuanced consideration of the ways that plural identities, even conflicting plural identities, are often held by individuals.
Parasite-induced changes in the diet of a freshwater amphipod: field and laboratory evidence
Authors: MÉDOC V. , PISCART C. , MAAZOUZI C. , SIMON L. , BEISEL J.-N.
Published: January 2011

Trophically transmitted parasites are likely to strongly influence food web-structure. The extent to which they change the trophic ecology of their host remains nevertheless poorly investigated and field evidence is lacking. This is particularly true for acanthocephalan parasites whose invertebrate hosts can prey on other invertebrates and contribute to leaf-litter breakdown. We used a multiple approach combining feeding experiments, neutral lipids and stable isotopes to investigate the trophic ecology of the freshwater amphipodGammarus roeseliparasitized by the bird acanthocephalanPolymorphus minutus. Infected compared to uninfected amphipods consumed as many dead isopods, but fewer live isopods and less leaf material. Infection had no influence on the total concentration of neutral lipids. Contrary to what we expected based on laboratory findings, the nitrogen isotope signature, which allows for the estimation of consumer's trophic position, was not influenced by infection status. Conversely, the carbon isotope signature, which is used to identify food sources, changed with infection and suggested that the diet of infectedG. roeseliincludes less perilithon (i.e. fixed algae on rocks, stones) but more terrestrial inputs (e.g. leaf material) than that of uninfected conspecifics. This study shows evidence of changes in the trophic ecology ofP. minutus-infectedG. roeseliand we stress the need to complement feeding experiments with field data when investigating top-down effects of infection in an opportunistic feeder which adapts its diet to the available food sources.
Molecular identification ofCryptosporidium parvumfrom avian hosts
Authors: QUAH J. X. , AMBU S. , LIM Y. A. L. , MAHDY M. A. K. , MAK J. W.
Published: January 2011

Cryptosporidiumspecies are protozoan parasites that infect humans and a wide variety of animals. This study was aimed at identifyingCryptosporidiumspecies and genotypes isolated from avian hosts. A total of 90 samples from 37 different species of birds were collected throughout a 3-month period from April 2008 to June 2008 in the National Zoo of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Prior to molecular characterization, all samples were screened forCryptosporidiumusing a modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique. Subsequently samples were analysed with nested-PCR targeting the partial SSU rRNA gene. Amplicons were sequenced in both directions and used for phylogenetic analysis using Neighbour-Joining and Maximum Parsimony methods. Although 9 (10%) samples were positive forCryptosporidiumvia microscopy, 8 (8·9%) produced amplicons using nested PCR. Phylogenetic trees identified all the isolates asCryptosporidium parvum. AlthoughC. parvumhas not been reported to cause infection in birds, and the role of birds in this study was postulated mainly as mechanical transporters, these present findings highlight the significant public health risk posed by birds that harbour the zoonotic species ofCryptosporidium.
RepRap – the replicating rapid prototyper
Authors: Jones Rhys , Haufe Patrick , Sells Edward , Iravani Pejman , Olliver Vik , Palmer Chris , Bowyer Adrian
Published: January 2011

This paper presents the results to date of the RepRap project – an ongoing project that has made and distributed freely a replicating rapid prototyper. We give the background reasoning that led to the invention of the machine, the selection of the processes that we and others have used to implement it, the designs of key parts of the machine and how these have evolved from their initial concepts and experiments, and estimates of the machine's reproductive success out in the world up to the time of writing (about 4500 machines in two and a half years).
The von Neumann threshold of self-reproducing systems: theory and application
Authors: Kabamba Pierre T. , Owens Patrick D. , Ulsoy A. Galip
Published: January 2011

This paper is devoted to the study of systems of entities that are capable of generating other entities of the same kind and, possibly, self-reproducing. The main technical issue addressed is to quantify the requirements that such entities must meet to be able to produce a progeny that is not degenerative, i.e., that has the same reproductive capability as the progenitor. A novel theory that allows an explicit quantification of these requirements is presented. The notion of generation rank of an entity is introduced, and it is proved that the generation process, in most cases, is degenerative in that it strictly and irreversibly decreases the generation rank from parent to descendent. It is also proved that there exists a threshold of rank such that this degeneracy can be avoided if and only if the entity has a generation rank that meets that threshold – this is the von Neumann rank threshold. On the basis of this threshold, an information threshold is derived, which quantifies the minimum amount of information that must be provided to specify an entity such that its descendents are not degenerative. Furthermore, a complexity threshold is obtained, which quantifies the minimum length of the description of that entity in a given language. As an application, self-assembly for a 2 Degrees of Freedom planar robot is considered, and simulation results are presented. A robot arm capable of picking up and placing the components of another arm, in the presence of errors, is considered to have successfully reproduced if these are placed within an allowable tolerance. The example shows that, due to the kinematics of the robot, errors can grow from one generation to the next, until the reproduction process fails eventually. However, error correction (via error sensing and feedback control) can then be used to prevent such degeneracy. The von Neumann generation rank and information thresholds are computed for this example, and are consistent with the simulation results in predicting degeneracy in the case without error correction, and predicting successful self-reproduction in the case with error correction.