bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Quality and Nutrient Uptake by Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Namdeo Suvarna , Bhatnagar GS
Published: June 2024

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) is the most dominant pulse (Grain Legume crop) having a share of around 40 per cent in the general production. It is predominantly a crop of low rainfall areas but gives good yield under irrigated conditions also. Excessive rain soon after sowing or at flowering can harm the crop. It is a highly nutritious pulse and places third in the importance list of the food legumes. It contains 25% proteins, which is the maximum provided by any pulse. In chickpea, symbiotic nitrogen fixation, crop meets up to 80% of the soil’s nitrogen needs, so farmers have to apply less nitrogen fertilizer than they do for other non-legume crops. The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications and by taking four treatments of RDF i.e. F1-100%NPK, F2-75%NPK, F3-50% NPK through inorganic and F4-Control as factor 1 in main plot and three treatments of biofertilizer i.e. BF1-FYM (7.5t ha-1) + Azospirillum (5 kg ha-1) + PSB (5 kg ha-1), BF2 Rhizobium (1.5 kg/ha + FYM (7.5 t/hac) +PSB (5 kg ha-1) and BF3-PSB + 3.75t/ha Vermicompost+ PSB (5Kg/ha). Highest grain yield is of F1 (2046.22 kg/ha) and BF3 (1842.35 kg/ha) in RDF and biofertilizer treatment respectively. The maximum percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content was found in F1 and BF3 respectively in the grain. The maximum protein content was recorded by F1 (23.80%) and BF3 (22.89%) in the grain.
Study on Adjustment and Psychological Wellbeing Moderator to Mitigate Homesickness in Young Adults
Authors: Arora Prathham , Singh Pankaj
Published: June 2024

Adjustment is the result of an individual's attempt to cope with stress and satisfy the demands of maintaining a harmonious connection with the environment. Successful adjustment is crucial for maintaining a good level of life. Individuals with adjustment disorders are more prone to have clinical depression or anxiety, feelings of despair, anhedonia, sleep disturbances, and risky conduct. Homesickness is a distressing situation created by being away from people and places you know and love. It is often a state of emotional anguish. It is a frequent experience for students who relocate away from home, regardless of distance. Psychological well-being involves several aspects of a person's mental and emotional health, such as healthy connections, personal growth and development, positive self-esteem and acceptance, and a sense of control over one's life. The sample consisted of 115 young adults (26 Males, 86 Females and 3 other) with mean age being 21.55 years. Moderation Analysis by Andrew F. Hayes was undertaken to compute the result. The results showed that adjustment has a positive moderation effect between Homesickness and Psychological Wellbeing.
Rainfall Distribution in the Brazilian Amazon: Application of the Variogram Function to Time Series
Authors: A.J. Darwich, , F. Aprile, , G.W. Siqueira,
Published: June 2024

The Amazon area is vast and diversified, with several climatic zones that influence directly in the associated ecosystems. This research analyzed the annual (hydrological year) and seasonal (drought and wet) climatological patterns of the Brazilian Amazon (North Region) between 1991–2022. The incomplete Gamma distribution model, kriging and cokriging interpolation tests, estimates of mean precipitation by the isohyet method, and of precipitated volume by the contour method were applied to numerical data. Data normalization techniques and image interpolation also contributed to identify precipitation patterns and trends in the northern region of Brazil. The method of hierarchical grouping by minimum variance was used, aided by the construction of frequency histograms and tests of significance. The results indicated a strong seasonality of rainfall. The highest precipitation rates occurred in the N-NW axis and the lowest in the south equatorial zone. The active atmospheric systems played an important role in the distribution of rainfall, both annual and seasonal. Four distinct climatic zones were established: southern, central, northwestern and northeastern. Based on the frequency of rainfall determined at levels of 10 to 90% probability, the results suggested a trend in the number of days with precipitation between 25 and 50% in most of the southern and central zones and an increase in precipitation from 50 to 75 % in the northern region. The ordinary kriging test and the spherical semivariogram model showed the best results for data interpolation, with better responses to the behavior of climatic variables and solutions for the spatial-temporal discontinuity of historical series. The results indicated a tendency towards the presence of isotropic climatic phenomena, especially in the wind distribution model. The results showed that they could support the understanding of the distribution of rainfall in the Amazon region.
Exploring the Dynamics of Housing Demand Preferences in Ilorin, Nigeria
Authors: Muoneke Chukwudum Theophilus
Published: June 2024

This study investigates housing demand preferences in Ilorin, one of Nigeria's rapidly growing metropolises. Ilorin presents a unique case for urban housing analysis, covering an area of approximately 100 km² and situated between the densely populated southwest and the sparsely populated middle belt. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected through a survey of 494 individuals, document analysis, and field observations. Respondents were selected using a stratified random sampling technique, ensuring representation from Ilorin East, Ilorin South, and Ilorin West. The survey focused on socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, housing types, income levels, and ownership statuses. The findings reveal that most respondents live in family compounds (42.4%), followed by those in 3-bedroom flats (16.8%) and single-room accommodations (14.2%). Income distribution is varied, with 25.3% of respondents earning above N80,000 monthly. Most respondents (65.9%) are homeowners, while 33.9% are tenants. The socioeconomic analysis shows that respondents generally have a moderate educational background and have resided in Ilorin for an average of 5.36 years. The mean age, marital status, and employment status suggest middle ranges within their respective categories. The study highlights the significant impact of income levels, employment opportunities, and access to credit on housing preferences. Urbanization and poverty are identified as critical factors driving the demand for housing, as people migrate from rural areas to urban centers in search of better opportunities, leading to increased congestion and housing deficits in cities. Infrastructure development, such as transportation networks and public services, significantly influences housing choices, emphasizing the need for strategic urban planning. This research underscores the importance of                       government policies related to land tenure, housing finance, and urban planning in shaping housing demand.
Responses of chimpanzees to a recently dead community member at Gombe National Park, Tanzania
Authors: Stewart Fiona Anne , Piel Alexander Kenneth , O'Malley Robert C.
Published: October 2011

Chimpanzee responses to the death of a group member have rarely been observed in the wild and most instances involve infant deaths. One of the very few detailed accounts of a group's response to the death of an adult community member is from Gombe National Park, Tanzania, where Teleki [Folia Primatologica 20:81–94, 1973] observed the responses of 16 chimpanzees to an accidental death, none of whom touched the body. Now, almost 40 years later, we report on the behaviors of 16 (different) Gombe individuals to the recently dead body of an adult female community member. In stark contrast to Teleki's account, we observed individual chimpanzees' responses to range from curious observation and passive investigation (e.g. smelling and grooming) to the shaking, dragging, and frustrated beating of the body. Variation across demographic groups is described and may reflect individuals' past experience with death. The implications of our observations are discussed in the context of core morbidity traits shared between humans and chimpanzees. Am. J. Primatol. 74:1–7, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetic evidence for dispersal by both sexes in the Central American Squirrel Monkey, Saimiri oerstedii citrinellus
Authors: Blair M.E. , Melnick D.J.
Published: October 2011

Sex‐biased dispersal (SBD) is common in many vertebrates, including primates. However, dispersal patterns in New World primates may vary among closely related taxa or populations in different local environments. Here, we test for SBD in an endangered New World primate, the Central American Squirrel Monkey (Saimiri oerstedii citrinellus). Previous studies of behavioral ecology suggest predominantly female dispersal in S.o. oerstedii in the Southern Pacific region of Costa Rica. However, our genetic data do not support strongly female‐biased dispersal in S.o. citrinellus in the Central Pacific region. Our tests for SBD using microsatellite data including comparisons of isolation‐by‐distance, AIc, and FST values between males and females were not significant. Also, we found greater population genetic structure in mitochondrial markers than in microsatellite markers, indicative of predominantly male dispersal. We conclude that both sexes disperse in S.o. citrinellus, and that males probably disperse over longer distances. We discuss how spatial and temporal variation among local populations should be taken into account when studying dispersal patterns and especially sex bias. Am. J. Primatol. 74:37–47, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The anatomist Hans Elias: A Jewish German in exile
Authors: Hildebrandt S.
Published: October 2011

Hans Elias (1907 to 1985) was an anatomist, an educator, a mathematician, a cinematographer, a painter, and a sculptor. Above all, he was a German of Jewish descent, who had to leave his home country because of the policies of the National Socialist (NS) regime. He spent his life in exile, first in Italy and then in the United States. His biography is exemplary for a generation of younger expatriates from National Socialist Germany who had to find a new professional career under difficult circumstances. Elias was a greatly productive morphologist whose artistic talent led to the foundation of the new science of stereology and made him an expert in scientific cinematography. He struggled hard to fulfill his own high expectations of himself in terms of his effectiveness as a scientist, educator, and politically acting man in this world. Throughout his life this strong‐willed and outspoken man never lost his great fondness for Germany and many of its people, while reserving some of his sharpest criticism for fellow anatomists who were active in National Socialist Germany, among them his friend Hermann Stieve, Max Clara, and Heinrich von Hayek. Hans Elias' life is well documented in his unpublished diaries and memoirs, and thus allows fresh insights into a time period when some anatomists were among the first victims of NS policies and other anatomists became involved in the execution of such policies. Clin. Anat. 25:284–294, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of long‐term exposure to low levels of organophosphorous pesticides and their mixture on altered antioxidative defense mechanisms and lipid peroxidation in rat liver
Authors: Yang Jindan , Cao Jie , Sun Xiaowei , Feng Zhijing , Hao Dongfang , Zhao Xiujuan , Sun Changhao
Published: October 2011

Organophosphorous pesticides, commonly used in agriculture for achieving better quality products, are toxic substances that have harmful effects on human health. Recent research on pesticides, especially pesticide mixtures, has shown that they are one of the key environmental health issues. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether dichlorvos, acephate, dimethoate and phorate, either used separately or in combination, can induce oxidative damage in rat livers. The levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase and lipid peroxidation products (malondialdehyde) were used as criteria. Low, middle and high doses of pesticides in drinking water were continuously administered orally to rats ad libitum for 24 weeks. Results show that the antioxidative defense mechanisms and lipid peroxidation in the rat livers display different responses, depending on the pesticide treatments and doses. The parameters for acephate, dichlorvos, phorate and dimethoate in the low‐dose group, and the corresponding low‐dose co‐treated group were not altered. The oxidative damage in rat livers showed different responses with increasing pesticide dose according to the different pesticide treatments. The combination group of dichlorvos, acephate, dimethoate and phorate displayed different responses compared with the single pesticide‐treated group. However, these responses did not constitute the sum of the response produced by each pesticide in the liver. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organocatalytic Asymmetric Additions to meso‐Anhydrides and Azlactones
Authors: Rodriguez‐Docampo Zaida , Connon Stephen J.
Published: October 2011

This review charts the recent progress of two related, yet distinct organocatalytic processes: the desymmetrisation of meso‐anhydrides and the dynamic kinetic resolution of azlactones. Driven by recent advances in catalyst design, both these processes have undergone something of a renaissance in recent years and are now becoming very powerful and versatile synthetic methodologies. The material is presented in a critical fashion and the material is organised by reaction type and catalyst class.
Pesticides Removal Using Conventional and Low‐Cost Adsorbents: A Review
Authors: Zolgharnein Javad , Shahmoradi Ali , Ghasemi Jahanbakhsh
Published: October 2011

Worldwide pesticide usage has increased dramatically during the last three decades, coinciding with changing practices and increasing by intensive agriculture. This widespread use of pesticides for agricultural and non‐agricultural purposes has resulted in the presence of their residues in various environmental matrices. The occurrence of pesticides and their metabolite transported in rivers, channels, lakes, sea, air, soils, groundwater, and even drinking water, proves the high risk of these chemicals to human health and the environment. Therefore, pesticide removal is of an increasing concern. In this study, a review of the published literature dealing with pesticides removal process is presented. Firstly, pesticide removal by conventional means is briefly considered. Secondly, the use of the low‐cost sorbent through biosorption process is discussed comprehensively. The effect of factors such as pH, contact time, sorbent dosage, initial pesticide concentration, and optimization of biosorption conditions is also discussed. Kinetic, thermodynamic, and mechanism studies are also given. This study shows that both microorganisms and other materials with biological origin like agricultural by‐products may be used to this end. There is a significant potential for pesticide uptake by the use of various pristine and especially modified biosorbents. In the case of living organisms used as removal agents, degradation may also play a role in the total removal observed.
Retractable loop‐gap resonators for electron paramagnetic resonance imaging with in situ irradiation capabilities
Authors: Epel Boris , Sundramoorthy Subramanian V. , Halpern Howard J.
Published: October 2011

A retractable split‐top loop‐gap resonator for both continuous wave and pulse electron paramagnetic resonance imaging of small animals with open, clam shell style design to allow convenient access to the sample for in situ animal irradiation is described. The resonator can be either rigidly attached to the animal support bed or floated independently from the bed to avoid communication of the mechanical vibrations of the bed to the resonator. Multiple split‐top resonators for different animal sizes were built and tested. The characteristics of split‐top resonators are comparable with those of loop‐gap resonators used previously. The imaging experiments that involved the sham animal irradiation between pairs of images demonstrated very good maintenance of animal position between images. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part B (Magn Reson Engineering) 39B: 167–172, 2011
Could image processing enable reduced acoustic noise during MRI scans?
Authors: Jackson James M. , Forbes Larry K. , While Peter T. , Brideson Michael A.
Published: October 2011

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) coils are typically associated with high acoustic noise levels, which can pose problems for the patient and attending medical staff. Lorentz forces are generated by gradient coils, which are switched rapidly. The Lorentz forces displace the coil former and promote a pressure wave that is responsible for acoustic noise up to 130 dB. The high noise levels are an unavoidable consequence of requiring the gradient coils to generate highly homogeneous linear magnetic fields. However, in this article, we present a mathematical method for designing coils that achieve a drastic reduction in noise level by deliberately sacrificing field linearity. We show that useful images can nevertheless be obtained from the nonlinear fields associated with these quiet coils. Examples are given that demonstrate the robustness of the method. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part B (Magn Reson Engineering) 39B: 191–205, 2011
Device Performance and Lifetime of Polymer:Fullerene Solar Cells with UV‐Ozone‐Irradiated Hole‐Collecting Buffer Layers
Authors: Lee Seungsoo , Nam Sungho , Lee Hyena , Kim Hwajeong , Kim Youngkyoo
Published: October 2011

We report the influence of UV‐ozone irradiation of the hole‐collecting buffer layers on the performance and lifetime of polymer:fullerene solar cells. UV‐ozone irradiation was targeted at the surface of the poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) layers by varying the irradiation time up to 600 s. The change of the surface characteristics in the PEDOT:PSS after UV‐ozone irradiation was measured by employing optical absorption spectroscopy, photoelectron yield spectroscopy, and contact angle measurements, while Raman and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy techniques were introduced for more microscopic analysis. Results showed that the UV‐ozone irradiation changed the chemical structure/composition of the surface of the PEDOT:PSS layers leading to the gradual increase of ionization potential with irradiation time in the presence of up‐and‐down variations in the contact angle (polarity). This surface property change was attributed to the formation of oxidative components, as evidenced by XPS and Auger electron images, which affected the sheet resistance of the PEDOT:PSS layers. Interestingly, device performance was slightly improved by short irradiation (up to 10 s), whereas it was gradually decreased by further irradiation. The short‐duration illumination test showed that the lifetime of solar cells with the UV‐ozone irradiated PEDOT:PSS layer was improved due to the protective role of the oxidative components formed upon UV‐ozone irradiation against the attack of sulfonic acid groups in the PEDOT:PSS layer to the active layer.
Glycosphingolipids in signaling and development: From liposomes to model organisms
Authors: Pontier Stephanie M. , Schweisguth François
Published: October 2011

Since the launch of the raft hypothesis in 1997, data generated in liposomes and cultured cells have highlighted the role of glycosphingolipids (GSLs) in the dynamic organization of biological membranes and the activity of signaling complexes. In parallel studies, genetic analysis of the GSL synthetic pathway has begun to reveal some of the specific roles of GSLs in vivo. Here, we review the role of GSLs in signaling in the context of a refined raft hypothesis. Recent genetic studies in worms, flies, and mice give us the opportunity to integrate these in vivo data with earlier in vitro liposome studies. Developmental Dynamics 241:92–106, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Drosophila cancer models
Authors: Rudrapatna Vivek A. , Cagan Ross L. , Das Tirtha K.
Published: October 2011

Cancer is driven by complex genetic and cellular mechanisms. Recently, the Drosophila community has become increasingly interested in exploring cancer issues. The Drosophila field has made seminal contributions to many of the mechanisms that are fundamental to the cancer process; several of these mechanisms have already been validated in vertebrates. Less well known are the Drosophila field's early direct contributions to the cancer field: some of the earliest tumor suppressors were identified in flies. In this review, we identify major contributions that Drosophila studies have made toward dissecting the pathways and mechanisms underlying tumor progression. We also highlight areas, such as drug discovery, where we expect Drosophila studies to make a major scientific impact in the future. Developmental Dynamics 241:107–118, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc
Alkenenitrile Transmissive Olefination: Synthesis of the Putative Lignan “Morinol I”
Authors: Fleming Fraser F. , Liu Wang , Yao Lihua , Pitta Bhaskar , Purzycki Matthew , Ravikumar P. C.
Published: October 2011

Grignard reagents trigger an addition–elimination with α′‐hydroxy acrylonitriles to selectively generate Z‐alkenenitriles. The modular assembly of Z‐alkenenitriles from a Grignard reagent, acrylonitrile, and an aldehyde is ideal forstereoselectively synthesizing alkenes, as illustrated in the synthesis of the putative lignan morinol I.
Interactions of gold nanoparticles with freshwater aquatic macrophytes are size and species dependent
Authors: Glenn J. Brad , White Sarah A. , Klaine Stephen J.
Published: October 2011

The partitioning of 4- and 18-nm gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to aquatic macrophytes was investigated in vivo with exposure suspension in well water. Three morphologically distinct aquatic macrophytes were studied. Myriophyllum simulans Orch. and Egeria densa Planch. are submerged aquatic vascular plants, whereas Azolla caroliniana Willd. is a free-floating aquatic fern. Because aquatic plants absorb the majority of their nutrients from the water column, it is logical to hypothesize that they may absorb nanomaterials in suspension, potentially facilitating trophic transfer. Each plant was exposed to two different-sized gold nanospheres at a nominal concentration of 250 µg/L AuNPs for 24 h. Macrophytes were harvested at six time points (1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 h), dried, and then analyzed for gold concentration via inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry. Concentrations were normalized to whole-plant dry tissue mass. The present study shows that absorption of AuNPs through root uptake was size and species dependent. Electron microscopy revealed that 4- and 18-nm AuNPs adsorbed to the roots of each species. Root tissue was sectioned, and transmission electron microscopy indicated that 4-nm and 18-nm AuNPs were absorbed by A. caroliniana, whereas only 4-nm AuNPs were absorbed by M. simulans. Egeria densa did not absorb AuNPs of either size. Gold nanoparticles were confirmed in tissue by using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Absorption of AuNPs by plants may be a function of the salinity tolerance of each species. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012;31:194–201. © 2011 SETAC
Forecasting the Yield Curve in a Data‐Rich Environment Using the Factor‐Augmented Nelson–Siegel Model
Authors: Exterkate Peter , Dijk Dick Van , Heij Christiaan , Groenen Patrick J. F.
Published: October 2011

This paper compares various ways of extracting macroeconomic information from a data‐rich environment for forecasting the yield curve using the Nelson–Siegel model. Five issues in extracting factors from a large panel of macro variables are addressed; namely, selection of a subset of the available information, incorporation of the forecast objective in constructing factors, specification of a multivariate forecast objective, data grouping before constructing factors, and selection of the number of factors in a data‐driven way. Our empirical results show that each of these features helps to improve forecast accuracy, especially for the shortest and longest maturities. Factor‐augmented methods perform well in relatively volatile periods, including the crisis period in 2008–9, when simpler models do not suffice. The macroeconomic information is exploited best by partial least squares methods, with principal component methods ranking second best. Reductions of mean squared prediction errors of 20–30% are attained, compared to the Nelson–Siegel model without macro factors. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Demographic correlates of DSM‐IV major depressive disorder among older African Americans, Black Caribbeans, and non‐Hispanic Whites: results from the National Survey of American Life
Authors: Aranda María P. , Chae David H. , Lincoln Karen D. , Taylor Robert Joseph , Woodward Amanda Toler , Chatters Linda M.
Published: October 2011

Objectives

To examine the demographic correlates of lifetime and 12‐month prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) among older African Americans, Black Caribbeans, and non‐Hispanic Whites.

Methods

Data are from adults aged 55 years and older (n = 1439) recruited to the National Survey of American Life (NSAL; 2001–2003). The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Version IV World Mental Health Composite International Diagnostic Interview was used to assess the 12‐month and lifetime MDD. Weighted logistic regression was used to model demographic correlates of MDD.

Results

The population prevalence of lifetime and 12‐month MDD were 11.2% and 4.1%, respectively. Bivariate analyses revealed that younger respondents and those with greater disability had a higher prevalence of both lifetime and 12‐month MDD compared with those who were older and who had lower disability. Multivariable logistic regressions controlling for demographic characteristics revealed that non‐Hispanic Whites had the greatest odds of lifetime MDD (OR = 2.27, 95% CI = 1.32, 3.93). Women had significantly greater odds of lifetime MDD compared with men (OR = 2.49, 95% CI = 1.14, 5.41); there were no gender differences in 12‐month MDD. Other significant predictors of MDD were marital status and region of residence.

Conclusions

The distribution, correlates, and nature of associations with MDD vary as a function of whether we examined lifetime vs. 12‐month MDD. Future work should account for within group differences among older adults with depression. Understanding MDD correlates and the nature of intergroup diversity can inform the identification of particularly vulnerable subgroups as well as appropriate treatment approaches. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Myofibroblast-derived PDGF-BB promotes hedgehog survival signaling in cholangiocarcinoma cells
Authors: Fingas Christian D. , Bronk Steven F. , Werneburg Nathan W. , Mott Justin L. , Guicciardi Maria E. , Cazanave Sophie C. , Mertens Joachim C. , Sirica Alphonse E. , Gores Gregory J.
Published: October 2011

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) cells paradoxically express the death ligand, tumor necrosis factor–related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) and, therefore, are dependent upon potent survival signals to circumvent TRAIL cytotoxicity. CCAs are also highly desmoplastic cancers with a tumor microenvironment rich in myofibroblasts (MFBs). Herein, we examine a role for MFB-derived CCA survival signals. We employed human KMCH-1, KMBC, HuCCT-1, TFK-1, and Mz-ChA-1 CCA cells, as well as human primary hepatic stellate and myofibroblastic LX-2 cells, for these studies.

In vivo

experiments were conducted using a syngeneic rat orthotopic CCA model. Coculturing CCA cells with myofibroblastic human primary hepatic stellate cells or LX-2 cells significantly decreased TRAIL-induced apoptosis in CCA cells, a cytoprotective effect abrogated by neutralizing platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB antiserum. Cytoprotection by PDGF-BB was dependent upon Hedgehog (Hh) signaling, because it was abolished by the smoothened (SMO; the transducer of Hh signaling) inhibitor, cyclopamine. PDGF-BB induced cyclic adenosine monophosphate–dependent protein kinase–dependent trafficking of SMO to the plasma membrane, resulting in glioma-associated oncogene (GLI)2 nuclear translocation and activation of a consensus GLI reporter gene-based luciferase assay. A genome-wide messenger RNA expression analysis identified 67 target genes to be commonly up- (50 genes) or down-regulated (17 genes) by both Sonic hedgehog and PDGF-BB in a cyclopamine-dependent manner in CCA cells. Finally, in a rodent CCA

in vivo

model, cyclopamine administration increased apoptosis in CCA cells, resulting in tumor suppression.

Conclusions:

MFB-derived PDGF-BB protects CCA cells from TRAIL cytotoxicity by a Hh-signaling–dependent process. These results have therapeutical implications for the treatment of human CCA. (Hepatology 2011;)
THE GROWTH AFTERMATH OF NATURAL DISASTERS
Authors: Fomby Thomas , Ikeda Yuki , Loayza Norman V.
Published: October 2011

This paper traces the yearly response of gross domestic product growth—both aggregated and disaggregated into its agricultural and non‐agricultural components—to four types of natural disasters: droughts, floods, earthquakes, and storms. The paper uses a methodological approach based on pooling the experiences of various countries over time. It consists of vector autoregressions in the presence of endogenous variables and exogenous shocks (VARX), applied to a panel of cross‐country and time series data. The analysis finds heterogeneous effects on a variety of dimensions. First, the effects of natural disasters are stronger on developing than on advanced countries. Second, not all natural disasters are alike in terms of the growth response they induce, and some can even have positive effects on economic growth. Third, severe disasters often carry much worse effects than moderate effects do. Fourth, the timing of the growth response varies with both the type of natural disaster and the sector of economic activity. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Barriers and potential solutions toward optimal prophylaxis against deep vein thrombosis for hospitalized medical patients: A survey of healthcare professionals
Authors: Lloyd Nancy S. , Douketis James D. , Cheng Ji , Schünemann Holger J. , Cook Deborah J. , Thabane Lehana , Pai Menaka , Spencer Frederick A. , Haynes R. Brian
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE:

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis remains underused in hospitalized medical patients despite strong recommendations that at‐risk patients should receive prophylaxis. To understand this gap between knowledge and practice, we surveyed clinicians' perceptions about the importance of DVT prophylaxis, barriers to guideline implementation, and interventions to optimize prophylaxis.

METHODS:

Paper‐ and electronic mail‐based surveys were sent to 1553 internists, nurses, pharmacists, and physiotherapists in Ontario, Canada. Responses were scored on 7‐point Likert scales. An important barrier to optimal DVT prophylaxis was 1 with a mean score ≥5, and interventions with high potential success or feasibility were those with mean scores ≥5.

RESULTS:

DVT prophylaxis was perceived as important by all clinician groups but this did not appear to translate into knowledge about underutilization of current DVT prophylaxis strategies. Physicians and pharmacists recognized the underuse of DVT prophylaxis in medical patients, while nurses and physiotherapists tended to perceive prophylaxis strategies as appropriate. Lack of clear indications and contraindications for prophylaxis and concerns about bleeding risks were perceived as important barriers. Preprinted orders were considered the most potentially successful and feasible way to optimize prophylaxis.

CONCLUSIONS:

A considerable barrier to optimal DVT prophylaxis utilization may be that those healthcare providers best able to conduct a daily assessment of patients' need for prophylaxis underrecognize the problem that prophylaxis is underutilized in this population. Interventions to bridge the gap between knowledge and practice should consider preprinted orders outlining DVT risk factors, and educating front‐line care providers prior to implementation of a top‐down approach. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2011;. © 2011 Society of Hospital Medicine
Adverse outcomes associated with delayed intensive care unit transfers in an integrated healthcare system
Authors: Liu Vincent , Kipnis Patricia , Rizk Norman W. , Escobar Gabriel J.
Published: October 2011

BACKGROUND:

Patients with intensive care unit (ICU) transfers from hospital wards have higher mortality than those directly admitted from the emergency department.

OBJECTIVE:

To describe the association between the timing of unplanned ICU transfers and hospital outcomes.

DESIGN, SETTING, PATIENTS:

Evaluation of 6369 early (within 24 hours of hospital admission) unplanned ICU transfer cases and matched directly admitted ICU controls from an integrated healthcare system. Cohorts were matched by predicted mortality, age, gender, diagnosis, and admission characteristics. Hospital mortality of cases and controls were compared based on elapsed time and diagnosis.

RESULTS:

More than 5% of patients admitted through the emergency department experienced an unplanned ICU transfer; the incidence and rates of transfers were highest within the first 24 hours of hospitalization. Multivariable matching produced 5839 (92%) case‐control pairs. Median length of stay was higher among cases (5.0 days) than controls (4.1 days, P < 0.01); mortality was also higher among cases (11.6%) than controls (8.5%, P < 0.01). Patients with early unplanned transfers were at an increased risk of death (odds ratio, 1.44; 95% confidence interval, 1.26‐1.64; P < 0.01); an increased risk of death was observed even among patients transferred within 8 hours of hospitalization. Hospital mortality differed based on admitting diagnosis categories. While it was higher among cases admitted for respiratory infections and gastrointestinal bleeding, it was not different for those with acute myocardial infarction, sepsis, and stroke.

CONCLUSIONS:

Early unplanned ICU transfers—even within 8 hours of hospitalization—are associated with increased mortality; outcomes vary by elapsed time to transfer and admitting diagnosis. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2011;. © 2011 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Crucial nesting habitat for gunnison sage‐grouse: A spatially explicit hierarchical approach
Authors: Aldridge Cameron L. , Saher D. Joanne , Childers Theresa M. , Stahlnecker Kenneth E. , Bowen Zachary H.
Published: October 2011

Gunnison sage‐grouse (Centrocercus minimus) is a species of special concern and is currently considered a candidate species under Endangered Species Act. Careful management is therefore required to ensure that suitable habitat is maintained, particularly because much of the species' current distribution is faced with exurban development pressures. We assessed hierarchical nest site selection patterns of Gunnison sage‐grouse inhabiting the western portion of the Gunnison Basin, Colorado, USA, at multiple spatial scales, using logistic regression‐based resource selection functions. Models were selected using Akaike Information Criterion corrected for small sample sizes (AICc) and predictive surfaces were generated using model averaged relative probabilities. Landscape‐scale factors that had the most influence on nest site selection included the proportion of sagebrush cover >5%, mean productivity, and density of 2 wheel‐drive roads. The landscape‐scale predictive surface captured 97% of known Gunnison sage‐grouse nests within the top 5 of 10 prediction bins, implicating 57% of the basin as crucial nesting habitat. Crucial habitat identified by the landscape model was used to define the extent for patch‐scale modeling efforts. Patch‐scale variables that had the greatest influence on nest site selection were the proportion of big sagebrush cover >10%, distance to residential development, distance to high volume paved roads, and mean productivity. This model accurately predicted independent nest locations. The unique hierarchical structure of our models more accurately captures the nested nature of habitat selection, and allowed for increased discrimination within larger landscapes of suitable habitat. We extrapolated the landscape‐scale model to the entire Gunnison Basin because of conservation concerns for this species. We believe this predictive surface is a valuable tool which can be incorporated into land use and conservation planning as well the assessment of future land‐use scenarios. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
LRRK2 haplotype‐sharing analysis in Parkinson's disease reveals a novel p.S1761R mutation
Authors: Lorenzo‐Betancor Oswaldo , Samaranch Lluís , Ezquerra Mario , Tolosa Eduardo , Lorenzo Elena , Irigoyen Jaione , Gaig Carles , Pastor María A. , Soto‐Ortolaza Alexandra I. , Ross Owen A. , Rodríguez‐Oroz María C. , Valldeoriola Francesc , Martí María J. , Luquin María R. , Perez‐Tur Jordi , Burguera Juan A. , Obeso José A. , Pastor Pau
Published: October 2011

Background and objective.

Mutations in the Leucine‐Rich Repeat Kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene at chromosome 12q12 are the most common genetic cause of sporadic and familial late‐onset Parkinson's disease. Our aim was to identify novel LRRK2 mutations in late‐onset Parkinson's disease families.

Design.

We analyzed chromosome 12p11.2‐q13.1 haplotypes in 14 late‐onset Parkinson's disease families without known LRRK2 mutations.

Results.

Haplotype analysis identified 12 families in which the affected subjects shared chromosome 12p11.2‐q13.1 haplotypes. LRRK2 sequencing revealed a novel co‐segregating missense mutation in exon 36 (c.5281A>C; p.S1761R) located within a highly conserved region of the COR [C‐terminal of ROC (Ras of complex proteins)] domain wherein it could deregulate LRRK2 kinase activity by modifying ROC‐COR dimer stability. p.S1761R was present in a late‐onset Parkinson's disease family and in 2 unrelated Parkinson's disease subjects, but not in 2491 healthy controls. LRRK2 p.S1761R carriers developed levodopa‐responsive asymmetrical parkinsonism, with variable age at onset (range: 37–72 years) suggesting age‐dependent penetrance. These findings indicate that mutations interfering with LRRK2 ROC‐COR domain dimerization lead to typical Parkinson's disease. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Sensory sensitivity to external stimuli in Tourette syndrome patients
Authors: Belluscio Beth A. , Jin Lily , Watters Veronica , Lee Tiffany H. , Hallett Mark
Published: October 2011

Patients with Tourette Syndrome often state that their sensitivity to sensations is equally or more disruptive than are motor tics. However, their sensory sensitivity is not addressed by standard clinical assessments nor is it a focus of research. This lapse likely results from our limited awareness and understanding of the symptom. In this study (1) we defined the patients' experience of sensitivity to external stimuli in detail, and (2) we tested 2 hypotheses regarding its origin. First, we interviewed in depth and administered a lengthy questionnaire to adult Tourette patients (n = 19) and age‐matched healthy volunteers (n = 19). Eighty percent of patients described heightened sensitivity to external stimuli, with examples among all 5 sensory modalities. Bothersome stimuli were characterized as faint, repetitive or constant, and nonsalient, whereas intense stimuli were well tolerated. We then determined whether the sensitivity could be the result of an increased ability to detect faint stimuli. After measuring the threshold of detection for olfactory and tactile stimuli among the patients and healthy volunteers, we found no significant differences between them for either sensory modality. These results indicate that patients' perceived sensitivity derives from altered central processing rather than enhanced peripheral detection. Last, we assessed one aspect of processing: the perception of intensity. When subjects rated the intensity of near‐threshold tactile and olfactory stimuli, there was a surprising difference: Tourette patients more frequently used the lowest range of the scale than did healthy volunteers. Future research is necessary to define the anatomical and physiological basis of the patients' experience of heightened sensitivity. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder and subtypes in autopsy‐confirmed dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Dugger Brittany N. , Boeve Bradley F. , Murray Melissa E. , Parisi Joseph E. , Fujishiro Hiroshige , Dickson Dennis W. , Ferman Tanis J.
Published: October 2011

The purpose of this study was to determine whether dementia with Lewy bodies with and without probable rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder differ clinically or pathologically. Patients with dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) with probable rapid eye movement sleep behavior sleep disorder (n = 71) were compared with those without it (n = 19) on demographics, clinical variables (core features of dementia with Lewy bodies, dementia duration, rate of cognitive/motor changes), and pathologic indices (Lewy body distribution, neuritic plaque score, Braak neurofibrillary tangle stage). Individuals with probable rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder were predominantly male (82% vs 47%) and had a shorter duration of dementia (mean, 8 vs 10 years), earlier onset of parkinsonism (mean, 2 vs 5 years), and earlier onset of visual hallucinations (mean, 3 vs 6 years). These patients also had a lower Braak neurofibrillary tangle stage (stage IV vs stage VI) and lower neuritic plaque scores (18% vs 85% frequency), but no difference in Lewy body distribution. When probable rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder developed early (at or before dementia onset), the onset of parkinsonism and hallucinations was earlier and Braak neurofibrillary tangle stage was lower compared with those who developed the sleep disorder after dementia onset. Women with autopsy‐confirmed DLB without a history of dream enactment behavior during sleep had a later onset of hallucinations and parkinsonism and a higher Braak NFT stage. Probable rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder is associated with distinct clinical and pathologic characteristics of dementia with Lewy bodies. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
The block sphericity test—exact and near‐exact distributions for the likelihood ratio statistic
Authors: Marques Filipe J. , Coelho Carlos A.
Published: October 2011

Using a suitable decomposition of the null hypothesis of the sphericity test for several blocks of variables, into a sequence of conditionally independent null hypotheses, we show that it is possible to obtain the expressions for the likelihood ratio test statistic, for its hth null moment, and for the characteristic function of its logarithm. The exact distribution of the logarithm of the likelihood ratio test statistic is obtained in the form of a sum of a generalized integer gamma distribution with the sum of a given number of independent logbeta distributions, taking the form of a single generalized integer gamma distribution when each set of variables has two variables. The development of near‐exact distributions arises, from the previous decomposition of the null hypothesis and from the consequent‐induced factorization of the characteristic function, as a natural and practical way to approximate the exact distribution of the test statistic. A measure based on the exact and approximating characteristic functions, which gives an upper bound on the distance between the corresponding distribution functions, is used to assess the quality of the near‐exact distributions proposed and to compare them with an asymptotic approximation on the basis of Box's method. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coupled‐fed loop antenna with branch radiators for internal LTE/WWAN laptop computer antenna
Authors: Wong Kin‐Lu , Ma Pei‐Ji
Published: October 2011

A new antenna structure of internal long‐term evolution/wireless wide area network (698–960/1710–2690 MHz) laptop computer antenna formed by a coupled‐fed loop antenna connected with two branch radiators is presented. The two branch radiators consist of one longer strip and one shorter strip, both being efficient radiators and contributing multiresonant modes to greatly enhance the bandwidth of the antenna. The antenna's lower band is formed by a dual‐resonant mode mainly contributed by the longer branch strip, while the upper band is formed by three resonant modes contributed respectively by one higher‐order resonant mode of the longer branch strip, one resonant mode of the coupled‐fed loop antenna alone, and one resonant mode of the shorter branch strip. The antenna's lower and upper bands can therefore cover the desired 698–960 and 1710–2690 MHz bands, respectively. The proposed antenna is suitable to be mounted at the top shielding metal wall of the display ground of the laptop computer and occupies a small volume of 4 × 10 × 75 mm3 above the top shielding metal wall, which makes it promising to be embedded inside the casing of the laptop computer as an internal antenna. Details of the proposed antenna are studied in the paper. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 52:2662–2667, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25556
A novel monopole antenna for ultra‐wide band application
Authors: Hong Tao , Gong Shu‐Xi , Jiang Wen , Liu Ying
Published: October 2011

A novel ultra‐wideband monopole antenna is presented in this article. The radiation element of the proposed antenna is composed of dual‐ring connected by several metallic via holes. The structure of the radiating ground is a rectangle with two rounding chamfers. They are printed on the substrate with dielectric permittivity of 2.65. Radiation characteristics of the proposed antenna are studied. The results show that the proposed antenna has favorable ultra‐wide band‐related performances. The proposed antenna serves as a good candidate for the future design of ultra‐wide band antennas. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 52:2694–2696, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25558
Single elements for low cost planar antenna arrays for consumer applications beyond 100 GHz
Authors: Herrero Pablo , Jacob Martin , Schoebel Joerg
Published: October 2011

Single planar element designs working at frequencies around 122 GHz are presented. The structures are designed keeping in mind future commercial applications that might arise in mm‐wave bands. Therefore, structures are explored with different radiation patterns. The antennas are implemented using commercial substrate and common photolithography to meet low cost requirements of consumer applications. Matching and radiation pattern was measured showing very good agreement simulations. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 52:2685–2688, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25563
Effect of ground plane size on radiation pattern in IFF/SSR microstrip antenna on thick substrate fed by H type slot
Authors: Zieniutycz W. , Mazur M. , Pergol M.
Published: October 2011

Numerical and experimental study of the effect of the ground plane size on radiation pattern of microstrip antenna on thick substrate is presented in the article. First the results of simulations and measurements of reference microstrip antenna are shown. Next the ground plane sizes were reduced in both x and y directions and the side lobes and backward lobe levels were calculated and measured. It was shown how far we can reduce the size of ground plane without important deterioration of the antenna pattern. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 52:2679–2682, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.25568