bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring the effectiveness of U.S. rice export promotion programs
Authors: Rusmevichientong Pimbucha , Kaiser Harry M.
Published: April 2009

Three issues are examined relating to U.S. rice export promotion. First, the responsiveness of U.S. rice export demand with respect to U.S. rice export promotion is measured to determine the quantity impacts of these programs. Second, the overall effectiveness of the programs is examined in terms of whether the benefits exceed the cost. Finally, the optimality of U.S. rice export promotion in terms of expenditure levels is investigated. A double logarithmic econometric export demand equation is estimated to compute the export promotion elasticity while controlling for other demand determinants such as own price, the export price of competing countries, incomes, and exchange rates. Average benefit–cost ratios are computed for U.S. rice export promotion based on a range of excess supply own‐price elasticities to compute the effectiveness of the programs. Finally, a marginal simulation analysis is conducted to explore the optimality of the investment in rice export promotion. [JEL Codes: Q17, Q18, Q13]. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Middle way leaders
Authors: Little Graham
Published: April 2009

This paper explores the psychology – and the appeal – of “middle way” or “third way” political leaders, with a particular focus on former British Labor prime minister Tony Blair. Reviewing two works by British psychoanalyst and Labor member of parliament (MP), Leo Abse, and Australian management theorist, Alistair Mant, the paper examines the middle way idea and its psychological meaning with particular reference to Blair and others including US president Bill Clinton and Australian Labor prime minister Bob Hawke. The paper, written in 1999, locates the middle way idea in relation to issues of aggression, denial of differences, idealization and parental identifications. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immunomodulatory and Anticancer Activities of Some Novel 2‐Substituted‐6‐bromo‐3‐methylthiazolo[3,2‐a]benzimidazole Derivatives
Authors: Abdel‐Aziz Hatem A. , Gamal‐Eldeen Amira M. , Hamdy Nehal A. , Fakhr Issa M. I.
Published: April 2009

Ethyl 6‐bromo‐3‐methyl‐1,3‐thiazolo[3,2‐a]benzimidazole‐2‐carboxylate 2 was prepared by the ambient temperature bromination of ethyl 3‐methyl‐1,3‐thiazolo[3,2‐a]benzimidazole‐2‐carboxylate 1. The acid hydrazide 4 was obtained by the reaction of ester 2 with hydrazine hydrate. Treatment of compound 4 with benzaldehyde or 2‐thiophenaldehyde yielded the corresponding hydrazones 6a and 6b, respectively, while the reaction of acid hydrazide 4 with ethoxymethylene malononitrile (7a) or with ethyl ethoxymethylene cyanoacetate (7b) in refluxing ethanol afforded pyrazole derivatives 9a and 9b, respectively. Taken together, from the biological investigations compounds 9a and 9b were the most significant inhibitors of LPS‐stimulated NO generation from Raw murine macrophage 264.7, and, as another result, compounds 2 and 4 had a weak radical scavenging activity against DPPH radicals. Moreover, 2, 4, and 9a had a concomitant strong cytotoxicity against both colon carcinoma cells (HCT‐116) and hepatocellular carcinoma cells (Hep‐G2) while 9b showed specific cytotoxicity only against colon carcinoma cells.
Interest of industrial actors in biorefinery concepts in Europe
Authors: Menrad Klaus , Klein Agnes , Kurka Stefan
Published: April 2009

To satisfy the rising demand for agricultural and forestry products it is becoming more and more important to use biomass as efficiently as possible. One way of achieving that goal is to implement biorefinery systems in which biomass can be utilized entirely by conversion through multiple processes into a number of valuable products. To pursue the implementation of biorefinery systems, it is important to know to what extent the industry is interested in such concepts. This perspective deals with the results of a cross‐European survey investigating the interests of potential industrial actors in biorefinery concepts. A high resonance was identified amongst companies belonging to the biofuels industry; companies active in this sector, therefore, could possibly provide access to further integrated concepts. On the whole, the results reflect a very positive attitude toward biorefinery concepts. But there are also problems with respect to the political and legal framework; policy and legislation may be required to establish stable framework conditions and provide planning security for investment decisions. Oilseed and lignocellulosic feedstock is primarily utilized within the surveyed companies; fuel, heat and power are the primary products produced from biomass. Additionally, the survey showed that biorefinery concepts are highly influenced by aspects concerning regional value chains. On the upstream side ‘feedstock issues’ appear to be especially important for biorefineries. In general, sustainability aspects are considered to be a benefit of biorefinery concepts. This suggests opportunities for the design of marketing and communication strategies based on ecological aspects of biorefinery implementation. © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
A tissue‐engineered model of the intestinal lacteal for evaluating lipid transport by lymphatics
Authors: Dixon J. Brandon , Raghunathan Sandeep , Swartz Melody A.
Published: April 2009

Lacteals are the entry point of all dietary lipids into the circulation, yet little is known about the active regulation of lipid uptake by these lymphatic vessels, and there lacks in vitro models to study the lacteal—enterocyte interface. We describe an in vitro model of the human intestinal microenvironment containing differentiated Caco‐2 cells and lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). We characterize the model for fatty acid, lipoprotein, albumin, and dextran transport, and compare to qualitative uptake of fatty acids into lacteals in vivo. We demonstrate relevant morphological features of both cell types and strongly polarized transport of fatty acid in the intestinal‐to‐lymphatic direction. We found much higher transport rates of lipid than of dextran or albumin across the lymphatic endothelial monolayer, suggesting most lipid transport is active and intracellular. This was confirmed with confocal imaging of Bodipy, a fluorescent fatty acid, along with transmission electron microscopy. Since our model recapitulates crucial aspects of the in vivo lymphatic–enterocyte interface, it is useful for studying the biology of lipid transport by lymphatics and as a tool for screening drugs and nanoparticles that target intestinal lymphatics. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;103: 1224–1235. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Directed evolution of a secretory leader for the improved expression of heterologous proteins and full‐length antibodies in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Rakestraw J. Andy , Sazinsky Stephen L. , Piatesi Andrea , Antipov Eugene , Wittrup K. Dane
Published: April 2009

Because of its eukaryotic nature, simple fermentation requirements, and pliable genetics, there have been many attempts at improving recombinant protein production in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. These strategies typically involve altering the expression of a native protein thought to be involved in heterologous protein trafficking. Usually, these approaches yield three‐ to tenfold improvements over wild‐type strains and are almost always specific to one type of protein. In this study, a library of mutant alpha mating factor 1 leader peptides (MFα1pp) is screened for the enhanced secretion of a single‐chain antibody. One of the isolated mutants is shown to enhance the secretion of the scFv up to 16‐fold over wild type. These leaders also confer a secretory improvement to two other scFvs as well as two additional, structurally unrelated proteins. Moreover, the improved leader sequences, combined with strain engineering, allow for a 180‐fold improvement over previous reports in the secretion of full‐length, functional, glycosylated human IgG1. The production of full‐length IgG1 at milligram per liter titers in a simple, laboratory‐scale system will significantly expedite drug discovery and reagent synthesis while reducing antibody cloning, production, and characterization costs. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;103: 1192–1201. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Simple and reliable formula for assessment of maximum volumetric productivities in photobioreactors
Authors: Cornet Jean‐François , Dussap Claude‐Gilles
Published: April 2009

This article establishes and discusses the consistency and the range of applicability of a simple but general and predictive analytical formula, enabling to easily assess the maximum volumetric biomass growth rates (the productivities) in several kinds of photobioreactors with more or less 15% of deviation. Experimental validations are performed on photobioreactors of very different conceptions and designs, cultivating the cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis, on a wide range of volumes and hemispherical incident light fluxes. The practical usefulness of the proposed formula is demonstrated by the fact that it appears completely independent of the characteristics of the material phase (as the type of reactor, the kind of mixing, the biomass concentration…), according to the first principle of thermodynamics and to the Gauss‐Ostrogradsky theorem. Its ability to give the maximum (only) kinetic performance of photobioreactors cultivating many different photoautotrophic strains (cyanobacteria, green algae, eukaryotic microalgae) is theoretically discussed but experimental results are reported to a future work of the authors or to any other contribution arising from the scientific community working in the field of photobioreactor engineering and potentially interested by this approach. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2009
Detailed Description of the Metal‐to‐Ligand Charge‐Transfer State in Monoterpyridine IrIII Complexes
Authors: Yoshikawa Naokazu , Yamabe Shinichi , Kanehisa Nobuko , Inoue Tsuyoshi , Takashima Hiroshi , Tsukahara Keiichi
Published: April 2009

We synthesized four IrIII terpyridine complexes with three Cl– anions by using microwave irradiation. By introducing three Cl– anions to the Ir3+ cation, it can be expected that the absorption and emission properties of the complexes change from π–π* to metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer (MLCT). These complexes having intrinsic C2v symmetry are suitable for analyzing orbital interactions. This symmetry has four irreducible representations, a1, a2, b1, and b2, which results in no degenerate orbitals. Charge transfers (CTs) from three nitrogen lone‐pair orbitals to the 5d and 5d atomic orbitals give three Ir–N coordination bonds in the in‐plane molecular orbital (MO) overlap of a1 symmetry. These CTs are described by the 60th and 66th MOs in the [IrCl3(terpy)] complex, (terpy = 2,2′:6′,2″‐terpyridine). The antibonding combination of the 5dxz and the lone‐pair orbital of Cl– gives rise to the high‐lying HOMO in b1 symmetry. The back CT, the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) (b1) → the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) (b1), corresponds to MLCT, and the small‐energy excitation is confirmed by the long wavelength λmax ≈ 500 nm in the absorption spectroscopy.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Biomimetic Chromanol Cyclisation: A Common Route to α‐Tocotrienol and α‐Tocopherol
Authors: Chapelat Julien , Chougnet Antoinette , Woggon Wolf‐D.
Published: April 2009

A common synthetic route to α‐tocotrienol and α‐tocopherol has been accomplished by a biomimetic cyclisation that yields the chromanol ring. The chirality at C2 of the chromanol was induced by a covalently attached chiral dipeptide. Its terminal Asp participates in the enantioface‐selective protonation of the double bond of the α‐tocotrienol precursor.α‐Tocotrienol was diastereoselectively hydrogenated toα‐tocopherol. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Co‐assembly of a Nafion–Mesoporous Zirconium Phosphate Composite Membrane for PEM Fuel Cells
Authors: Sahu A. K. , Pitchumani S. , Sridhar P. , Shukla A. K.
Published: April 2009

Synthesis of mesoporous zirconium phosphate (MZP) by co‐assembly of a tri‐block copolymer, namely pluronic‐F127, as a structure‐directing agent, and a mixture of zirconium butoxide and phosphorous trichloride as inorganic precursors is reported. MZP with a specific surface area of 84 m2 g–1, average pore diameter of about 17 nm and pore volume of 0.35 cm3 g–1 has been prepared, and characterised by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy. Nafion–MZP composite membrane is obtained by employing MZP as a surface‐functionalised solid‐super‐acid‐proton‐conducting medium as well as an inorganic filler with high affinity to absorb water and fast proton‐transport across the electrolyte membrane even under low relative humidity (RH) conditions. The composite membranes have been evaluated in H2/O2 polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) at varying RH values between 18 and 100%; a peak power density of 355 mW cm–2 at a load current density of 1,100 mA cm–2 is achieved with the PEFC employing Nafion–MZP composite membrane while operating at optimum temperature (70 °C) under 18% RH and ambient pressure. On operating the PEFC employing Nafion–MZP membrane electrolyte with hydrogen and air feeds at ambient pressure and a RH value of 18%, a peak power density of 285 mW cm–2 at the optimum temperature (60 °C) is achieved. In contrast, operating under identical conditions, a peak power density of only ∼170 mW cm–2 is achieved with the PEFC employing Nafion‐1135 membrane electrolyte.
Derivatives trading, volatility spillover, and regulation: Evidence from the Korean securities markets
Authors: Bae Sung C. , Kwon Taek Ho , Park Jong Won
Published: April 2009

Unlike the U.S. and Japanese securities markets, we find new evidence of volatility spillover between index stocks and non‐index stocks following the introductions of index derivatives trading in the Korean securities markets. We further find that the degree of volatility spillover is closely related to the level of market deregulation; significant return volatility spills over from non‐index to index stocks during deregulation period but in the opposite direction during post‐deregulation period. Our empirical results show that the former volatility spillover from non‐index to index stocks can be explained by the transitory contagion effect associated with the 1997 Korean financial crisis and the subsequent market deregulation, whereas the latter volatility spillover from index to non‐index stocks is attributed to the permanent information spillover effect. This latter evidence suggests that the information regarding investors' expectations on the future common market factors is first reflected into the return volatility of index stocks and then transferred to the trading of non‐index stocks against which derivatives are not traded. Our results are robust to different estimation and sample construction methods. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 29:563–597, 2009
VIX option pricing
Authors: Lin Yueh‐Neng , Chang Chien‐Hung
Published: April 2009

Substantial progress has been made in developing more realistic option pricing models for S&P 500 index (SPX) options. Empirically, however, it is not known whether and by how much each generalization of SPX price dynamics improves VIX option pricing. This article fills this gap by first deriving a VIX option model that reconciles the most general price processes of the SPX in the literature. The relative empirical performance of several models of distinct interest is examined. Our results show that state‐dependent price jumps and volatility jumps are important for pricing VIX options. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 29:523–543, 2009
Synchronous papillary carcinoma in thyroglossal duct cyst and thyroid gland: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Cherian Mathew Pynumootil , Nair Balakrishnan , Thomas Shaji , Somanathan Thara , Sebastian Paul
Published: April 2009

Background

We report a rare case of synchronous occurrence of thyroglossal duct cyst carcinoma and thyroid carcinoma and discuss its management in detail.

Methods

A 59‐year‐old woman was clinically diagnosed to have a thyroglossal duct cyst and a solitary nodule. Fine‐needle aspiration cytology revealed a papillary carcinoma in the thyroglossal duct cyst and a colloid in the thyroid nodule. Sistrunk's procedure along with a total thyroidectomy was performed followed by postoperative radioiodine ablation.

Results

Histopathologic examination revealed thyroglossal duct cyst carcinoma and bilateral foci of papillary carcinoma in the thyroid gland. She has remained free of disease on follow‐up.

Conclusion

Most cancers arising in thyroglossal duct cysts are of low risk, and Sistrunk's procedure is an adequate treatment for such cancers. However, for synchronously occurring cancers of the thyroglossal duct cyst and thyroid gland, or high‐risk thyroglossal duct cyst cancers, more aggressive treatment comprising total thyroidectomy, Sistrunk's procedure, and radioiodine therapy is indicated. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Postradiation nasopharyngeal necrosis in the patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Hua Yi‐Jun , Chen Ming‐Yuan , Qian Chao‐Nan , Hong Ming‐Huang , Zhao Chong , Guo Ling , Guo Xiang , Cao Kao‐Jia
Published: April 2009

Background

Radiation‐induced nasopharyngeal necrosis is a consequential late effect in the patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Patients with NPC who have been treated with high‐dose radiotherapy are at risk of developing postradiation nasopharyngeal necrosis (PRNN). However, the analysis of PRNN with a significant cohort of patients has not been reported in English‐language literature. In this study, we aimed to evaluate PRNN in 28 patients with NPC.

Methods

From June 2006 to December 2007, 28 patients were diagnosed with PRNN with pathologic evidence. Surgical procedure of endoscopy‐guided debridement and systemic anti‐inflammatory treatments were conducted for the patients. Their clinical features, treatment procedures, and outcomes were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Clinical symptoms such as foul odor and headache were alleviated in all, 8 patients were cured of their PRNN, 9 patients with exposed internal carotid artery died of sudden nasopharyngeal massive bleeding, and 3 patients died of exhaustion (cachexia).

Conclusion

PRNN is an important consequential late effect of radiotherapy in the patients with NPC. Internal carotid artery erosion is a severe situation and acts as an independent prognostic factor for the patients. Diagnosis of PRNN could be made after ruling out the persistent‐recurrent NPC proven by pathologic examination. Surgery is effective for improving the quality of life and for curing PRNN. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Efficacy and safety of treating T4 oral cavity tumors with primary chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Cohen Ezra E. W. , Baru Joshua , Huo Dezheng , Haraf Daniel J. , Crowley Maureen , Witt Mary Ellyn , Blair Elizabeth A. , Weichselbaum Ralph R. , Rosen Fred , Vokes Everett E. , Stenson Kerstin
Published: April 2009

Background

Patients with T4 oral cavity (OC) tumors are often treated with surgery followed by adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of 4 multi‐institutional phase II studies estimating long‐term toxicity, locoregional control (LC), progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) of primary CRT.

Results

Thirty‐nine subjects were identified; 16 (42%) with bony involvement. Median radiotherapy dose delivered to primary tumor was 74 Gy. Five‐year OS, PFS, and LC rates were 56%, 51%, and 75%, respectively. Sixty‐nine percent of subjects with bony involvement never relapsed. Seven subjects developed osteoradionecrosis. Bone involvement with primary tumor did not appear to be associated with increased risk of death, relapse, or long‐term complication.

Conclusion

These data suggest that primary CRT is an effective treatment approach in patients with T4 OC tumors including those with bony involvement producing LC, survival, and complication rates comparable to historical series. Prospective clinical trials should evaluate primary surgical versus CRT treatment in these patients. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Anatomical variations of the superior thyroid and superior laryngeal arteries
Authors: Vázquez Teresa , Cobiella Rosana , Maranillo Eva , Valderrama Francisco Jose , McHanwell Stephen , Parkin Ian , Sañudo Jose Ramon
Published: April 2009

Background

There are known to be variations in the origins of the superior thyroid artery (STA), an important surgical landmark, and 1 of its branches, the superior laryngeal artery (SLA).

Methods

Three hundred thirty human embalmed heminecks were dissected. The results of previous studies were reviewed, and a meta‐analysis is presented.

Results

Four different origins for the STA were found. The most frequent was type I, from the carotid bifurcation (49%). Four different origins were also found for the SLA being the most frequent the type I in which the artery arose from STA (78%). The mean external diameters of STA and SLA were 0.26 and 0.20 cm, respectively, with no statistically significant differences by side or sex.

Conclusion

Variations in the origin of STA and SLA from the carotid arterial tree and the similarity of their diameters mean that there is a significant possibility of their misidentified during surgery. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
From program participant to engaged citizen: a developmental journey
Authors: Borden Lynne , Serido Joyce
Published: April 2009

American youth who participate in both school‐based and community‐based programs during high school remain more civically engaged than their contemporaries throughout adulthood. However, few studies have examined the developmental processes through which participation in a youth directed program promotes civic responsibility. In this qualitative study, 23 males and 9 females took part in one of five focus groups to talk about their experiences as members of a youth empowerment center in the southwest. The results reveal a three‐phased process model of development from program participant to civically engaged youth. Each of the three phases, participation, connection and expansion, is explained using the words and examples provided by the youth. Implications for application and future research are discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of Defined Poly(silsesquioxane)s: Fast Polycondensation of Trialkoxysilanes in a Continuous‐Flow Microreactor
Authors: Kessler Daniel , Löwe Holger , Theato Patrick
Published: April 2009

The polycondensation of trialkoxysilanes to PSSQs in a microreactor setup is demonstrated. While continuous‐flow processes involving microreactors found various applications in chain growth polymerization, their influence on step‐growth polymerization is less explored, and the polycondensation of multifunctional monomers has not been studied in detail. We found significantly increased yields and a decreased polydispersity of the obtained polymers in comparison to the batch process. By variation of the residence time molecular weights could be adjusted reproducibly ranging from $\overline M _{\rm n}$ = 1 900 to 11 000 g · mol−1. Thus, the microreactor setup offers for the first time the possibility to synthesize PSSQ with adjustable properties.

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Boundary layers for parabolic perturbations of quasi‐linear hyperbolic problems
Authors: Wang Jing
Published: April 2009

In this paper, we study the asymptotic relation between the solutions to the one‐dimensional viscous conservation laws with the Dirichlet boundary condition and the associated inviscid solution. We assume that the viscosity matrix is positive definite, then we prove the existence and the stability of the weak boundary layers by discussing nonlinear well‐posedness of the inviscid flow with certain boundary conditions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Apparent diffusion coefficient and fractional anisotropy of newly diagnosed grade II gliomas
Authors: Khayal Inas S. , McKnight Tracy R. , McGue Colleen , Vandenberg Scott , Lamborn Kathleen R. , Chang Susan M. , Cha Soonmee , Nelson Sarah J.
Published: April 2009

Distinguishing between low‐grade oligodendrogliomas (ODs) and astrocytomas (AC) is of interest for defining prognosis and stratifying patients to specific treatment regimens. The purpose of this study was to determine if the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and fractional anisotropy (FA) from diffusion imaging can help to differentiate between newly diagnosed grade II OD and AC subtypes and to evaluate the ADC and FA values for the mixed population of oligoastrocytomas (OA). Fifty‐three patients with newly diagnosed grade II gliomas were studied using a 1.5T whole body scanner (23 ODs, 16 ACs, and 14 OAs). The imaging protocol included post‐gadolinium T1‐weighted images, T2‐weighted images, and either three and/or six directional diffusion imaging sequence with b = 1000 s/mm2. Diffusion‐weighted images were analyzed using in‐house software to calculate maps of ADC and for six directional acquisitions, FA. The intensity values were normalized by values from normal appearing white matter (NAWM) to generate maps of normalized apparent diffusion coefficient (nADC) and normalized fractional anisotropy (nFA). The hyperintense region in the T2 weighted image was defined as the T2All region. A Mann–Whitney rank‐sum test was performed on the 25th, median, and 75th nADC and nFA among the three subtypes. Logistic regression was performed to determine how well the nADC and nFA predict subtype. Lesions diagnosed as being OD had significantly lower nADC and significantly higher nFA, compared to AC. The nADC and nFA values individually classified the data with an accuracy of 87%. Combining the two did not enhance the classification. The patients with OA had nADC and nFA values between those of OD and AC. This suggests that ADC and FA may be helpful in directing tissue sampling to the most appropriate regions for taking biopsies in order to make a definitive diagnosis. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Body mass index predicts insulin resistance in survivors of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Lowas Stefanie , Malempati Suman , Marks Daniel
Published: April 2009

Background

Pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) therapies have been associated with many late effects, including obesity, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance. Few data are available linking these abnormalities to specific risk factors present during ALL treatment.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study with prospective follow‐up. Subjects had been diagnosed with ALL at ages 1–18 years and had been off chemotherapy for >9 months. Oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT) was performed and these results compared to demographic, treatment, and anthropomorphic data from medical records.

Results

Twenty‐seven subjects (11 female) were evaluated. Mean (±SD) diagnosis age 5.7 ± 3.5 years, mean study age 11.3 ± 3.7 years, mean time off therapy 2.8 ± 1.5 years. Six subjects had transient hyperglycemia during ALL treatment. At study time, one subject had prediabetes; eight (29.6%) had insulin resistance. Insulin resistance was not predicted by glucose levels during treatment, cumulative steroid or asparaginase dose, or type of steroid received. Body mass index (BMI) for age correlated significantly with several measures of insulin resistance, including fasting insulin, HOMA index, Matsuda index and insulin AUC (P = 0.001–0.009). Waist/hip ratio and BMI at ALL diagnosis also correlated with insulin resistance, but these factors' effects could not be separated from BMI at study time.

Conclusions

Variations in ALL therapy and presence of transient hyperglycemia do not appear to increase risk of glucose intolerance or insulin resistance in the first few years after completion of therapy. Elevated BMI strongly predicted insulin resistance in this study, as it does in the general population. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:58–63. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical aspects of fertility preservation in female patients
Authors: Rodriguez‐Macias Wallberg Kenny A. , Keros Victoria , Hovatta Outi
Published: April 2009

There are several methods of fertility preservation available for female patients facing infertility following gonadotoxic treatment of cancer or systemic disease. Embryos, oocytes or ovarian tissue can be cryopreserved and stored until the time when the patient is cured of her main disease and is expecting parenthood. The individual's choice depends on the nature and stage of the main disease, expected treatment, their condition, and age and existence of the partner. It is important to inform all such women about the options, and together with them, choose the most appropriate ones. It is often possible to save ovarian tissue even though the first chemotherapy courses have been undergone, but many more follicles can be stored before cancer treatment. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:254–260. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Validity of the Bracken School Readiness Assessment for predicting first grade readiness
Authors: Panter Janet E. , Bracken Bruce A.
Published: April 2009

The Bracken School Readiness Assessment (BSRA) was administered to all kindergarten students enrolled in two rural elementary schools in the fall of 2004. Eight months later, the reading portion of the Metropolitan Readiness Tests, 6th Edition (MRT‐6) was administered. Teachers were asked to indicate whether they had concerns about each student's readiness for first grade and whether students had been retained or referred for other assessment(s) or services. The BSRA was found to be a good predictor of children's readiness ratings, as well as their retention or referral for services. It also predicted performance on the MRT‐6. This study partially validated the use of the BSRA as a screening measure to predict kindergarten performance and kindergarten teachers' ratings of first grade readiness. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surface structural characterization of highly porous activated carbon prepared from corn grain
Authors: Balathanigaimani M. S. , Shim Wang‐Geun , Kim Chan , Lee Jae‐Wook , Moon Hee
Published: April 2009

A novel corn grain precursor was used for the preparation of activated carbon by chemical activation. The detailed investigation of the porosity development in the prepared activated carbon was done by altering the various activation conditions such as the activation temperature, activation time and ratio between the powdered form of carbonized corn grain char and KOH. The surface characteristics including the surface roughness of all the activated carbon samples were evaluated from the analysis of nitrogen (N2) adsorption isotherm data. At the maximum of 2978 m2/g, a super surface area having the corn grain‐based activated carbon (CG‐AC) was synthesized by using the following conditions: 1/4 ratio of powdered form of carbonized corn grain char/KOH; 800 °C; and 4 h. The possibility of preparing highly porous activated carbons with controlled porosity by varying different activation conditions was found from the pore size distribution results. In particular, the domination of the ratio between the powdered form of carbonized corn grain char and KOH on the porosity development was high compared to the activation temperature and activation time. In addition, the surface roughness calculated from the surface fractal dimension indicates the decrease of surface roughness with increasing activation conditions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stress and dietary quality in black adolescents in a metropolitan area
Authors: Austin Anthony W. , Smith Albert F. , Patterson Stephen M.
Published: April 2009

Adolescents from families with low socio‐economic status (SES) experience more stress and have poorer diets than adolescents from families with high SES. This study investigated whether change in dietary quality among urban, black adolescents related to changes in the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Daily Hassles Microsystem Scale (DHMS) while controlling for household income. At two times 1 month apart, 25 adolescents completed a modified Adolescent Food Habits Checklist (AFHC), the PSS and the DHMS. Change scores from time 1 to time 2 for each measure were computed. AFHC change and PSS change had a significant, negative correlation (r = −0.458, p < 0.05), even when controlling for income (r = −0.585, p < 0.05). For girls, AFHC change and PSS change had a significant, negative correlation (r = −0.599, p < 0.05), even when controlling for income (r = −0.697, p < 0.05). No significant correlation was observed for boys (r = 0.003, p = 0.993), and when controlling for income (r = −0.346, p = 0.448). The correlation between AFHC change and DHMS change was not significant. Black adolescent girls, but not boys, tended to make more unhealthy dietary choices when under increased stress. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Eating out of home in Belgium: current situation and policy implications
Authors: Vandevijvere Stefanie , Lachat Carl , Kolsteren Patrick , Van Oyen Herman
Published: April 2009

The aim of the study was to characterise substantial out-of-home (SOH) eaters, describe the nutritional quality of their diet, compare SOH eaters and non-SOH eaters for a set of nutritional indicators and evaluate the quality of meals consumed at home and at different places outside the home. Information on food intake was collected with two 24 h recalls. Habitual food intake was estimated by the Nusser method. Non-dietary variables were obtained using a face-to-face questionnaire. SOH eaters were defined as individuals who consume at least 25 % of their daily energy out of home. A representative sample (n 3245) of the Belgian population aged 15 years and older was randomly selected from the National Register using a multi-stage stratified procedure. Of the Belgian population, 35·2 % were defined as SOH eaters. Energy intake, energy density of the total diet and daily consumption of most food groups, except for fruits and vegetables, were substantially higher among SOH eaters compared with non-SOH eaters. Out-of-home eating was more common among men than women and decreased with increasing age. There were considerable differences in portion sizes, consumption frequency of different foods and diversity of meals according to different places of consumption. Out-of-home eating is a significant nutritional issue in Belgium and is associated with a more adverse dietary profile. Out-of-home eating, places of consumption, and specific population groups, eating substantially out of home, should consequently be taken into account when designing and evaluating nutrition policies.
Most rapid cognitive decline in APOE ε4 negative Alzheimer's disease with early onset
Authors: van der Vlies A. E. , Koedam E. L. G. E. , Pijnenburg Y. A. L. , Twisk J. W. R. , Scheltens P. , van der Flier W. M.
Published: April 2009

Background

We aimed to compare the rate of cognitive decline in patients with early and late onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) and to investigate the potentially modifying influence of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype.

Method

We included 99 patients with early onset AD (age ⩽65 years) and 192 patients with late onset AD (age >65 years) who had at least two scores on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) (range 2–14) obtained at least 1 year apart. Linear mixed models were performed to investigate the rate of cognitive decline dependent on age at onset (AAO) and APOE genotype.

Results

The mean (s.d.) age for patients with early onset AD was 57.7 (4.5) years, and 74.5 (5.1) years for patients with late onset AD. AAO was not associated with baseline MMSE [β (s.e.)=0.8 (0.5), p=0.14]. However, patients with early onset showed a faster decline on the MMSE [β (s.e.)=2.4 (0.1) points/year] than those with late onset [β (s.e.)=1.7 (0.1) points/year, p=0.00]. After stratification according to APOE genotype, APOE ε4 non-carriers with early onset showed faster cognitive decline than non-carriers with late onset [2.4 (0.3) v. 1.3 (0.3) points/year, p=0.01]. In APOE ε4 carriers, no difference in rate of cognitive decline was found between patients with early and late onset [β (s.e.)=0.2 (0.2), p=0.47].

Conclusion

Patients with early onset AD show more rapid cognitive decline than patients with late onset, suggesting that early onset AD follows a more aggressive course. Furthermore, this effect seems to be most prominent in patients with early onset who do not carry the genetic APOE ε4 risk factor for AD.
Age transitions in the course of bipolar I disorder
Authors: Coryell W. , Fiedorowicz J. , Solomon D. , Endicott J.
Published: April 2009

Background

This analysis aimed to show whether symptoms of either pole change in their persistence as individuals move through two decades, whether such changes differ by age grouping, and whether age of onset plays an independent role in symptom persistence.

Method

Participants in the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Collaborative Depression Study (CDS) who completed at least 20 years of follow-up and who met study criteria for bipolar I or schizo-affective manic disorder, before intake or during follow-up, were divided by age at intake into youngest (18–29 years, n=56), middle (30–44 years, n=68) and oldest (>44 years, n=24) groups.

Results

The persistence of depressive symptoms increased significantly in the two younger groups. Earlier ages of onset were associated with higher depressive morbidity throughout the 20 years of follow-up but did not predict changes in symptom persistence. The proportions of weeks spent in episodes of either pole correlated across follow-up periods in all age groupings, although correlations were stronger for depressive symptoms and for shorter intervals.

Conclusions

Regardless of age at onset, the passage of decades in bipolar illness seems to bring an increase in the predominance of depressive symptoms in individuals in their third, fourth and fifth decades and an earlier age of onset portends a persistently greater depressive symptom burden. The degree to which either depression or manic/hypomanic symptoms persist has significant stability over lengthy periods and seems to reflect traits that manifest early in an individual's illness.
Emotion regulation strategies and later externalizing behavior among European American and African American children
Authors: Supplee Lauren H. , Skuban Emily Moye , Shaw Daniel S. , Prout Joanna
Published: April 2009

Children's early emotion regulation strategies (ERS) have been related to externalizing problems; however, most studies have included predominantly European American, middle-class children. The current study explores whether ERS use may have differential outcomes as a function of the mother's ethnic culture. The study utilizes two diverse samples of low-income male toddlers to examine observed ERS during a delay of gratification task in relation to maternal and teacher reports of children's externalizing behavior 2 to 6 years later. Although the frequencies of ERS were comparable between ethnic groups in both samples, the use of physical comfort seeking and self-soothing was positively related to African American children's later externalizing behavior but negatively related to externalizing behavior for European American children in Sample 1. Data from Sample 2 appear to support this pattern for self-soothing in maternal, but not teacher, report of externalizing behavior. Within group differences by income were examined as a possible explanatory factor accounting for the ethnic differences, but it was not supported. Alternative explanations are discussed to explain the pattern of findings.
Nurse home visitation and the prevention of child maltreatment: Impact on the timing of official reports
Authors: Zielinski David S. , Eckenrode John , Olds David L.
Published: April 2009

This study examined the effects of the Nurse Family Partnership (NFP), a program of prenatal and infancy home visiting by nurses, on the timing of verified reports of child maltreatment. A sample of predominantly unmarried, low-income mothers and their first-born children were randomly assigned to receive either home visitation services by nurses beginning in pregnancy and lasting until the child was age 2, or comparison services. Previous studies have found that this program was effective in reducing the overall number of substantiated Child Protective Service reports by age 15. In the current study, survival analyses were used to assess temporal differences between nurse visited (n= 93) and comparison (n= 144) children's onset rates for maltreatment. The two groups' survival functions remained nearly identical until age 4, at which point the nurse-visited group's risk for onset began to significantly diminish. These results were more pronounced among the highest risk subgroup and among victims of neglect. The findings provide evidence that the NFP's success in reducing the number of maltreatment reports resulted in part from in its impact on the timing of the maltreatment process.
Academic achievement of homeless and highly mobile children in an urban school district: Longitudinal evidence on risk, growth, and resilience
Authors: Obradović Jelena , Long Jeffrey D. , Cutuli J. J. , Chan Chi-Keung , Hinz Elizabeth , Heistad David , Masten Ann S.
Published: April 2009

Longitudinal growth trajectories of reading and math achievement were studied in four primary school grade cohorts (GCs) of a large urban district to examine academic risk and resilience in homeless and highly mobile (H/HM) students. Initial achievement was assessed when student cohorts were in the second, third, fourth, and fifth grades, and again 12 and 18 months later. Achievement trajectories of H/HM students were compared to low-income but nonmobile students and all other tested students in the district, controlling for four well-established covariates of achievement: sex, ethnicity, attendance, and English language skills. Both disadvantaged groups showed markedly lower initial achievement than their more advantaged peers, and H/HM students manifested the greatest risk, consistent with an expected risk gradient. Moreover, in some GCs, both disadvantaged groups showed slower growth than their relatively advantaged peers. Closer examination of H/HM student trajectories in relation to national test norms revealed striking variability, including cases of academic resilience as well as problems. H/HM students may represent a major component of “achievement gaps” in urban districts, but these students also constitute a heterogeneous group of children likely to have markedly diverse educational needs. Efforts to close gaps or enhance achievement in H/HM children require more differentiated knowledge of vulnerability and protective processes that may shape individual development and achievement.
Socially indiscriminate attachment behavior in the Strange Situation: Convergent and discriminant validity in relation to caregiving risk, later behavior problems, and attachment insecurity
Authors: Lyons-Ruth Karlen , Bureau Jean-François , Riley Caitlin D. , Atlas-Corbett Alisha F.
Published: April 2009

Socially indiscriminate attachment behavior has been repeatedly observed among institutionally reared children. Socially indiscriminate behavior has also been associated with aggression and hyperactivity. However, available data rely heavily on caregiver report of indiscriminate behavior. In addition, few studies have been conducted with samples of home-reared infants exposed to inadequate care. The current study aimed to develop a reliable laboratory measure of socially indiscriminate forms of attachment behavior based on direct observation and to validate the measure against assessments of early care and later behavior problems among home-reared infants. Strange Situation episodes of 75 socially at-risk mother–infant dyads were coded for infant indiscriminate attachment behavior on the newly developed Rating for Infant–Stranger Engagement. After controlling for infant insecure–organized and disorganized behavior in all analyses, extent of infant–stranger engagement at 18 months was significantly related to serious caregiving risk (maltreatment or maternal psychiatric hospitalization), observed quality of disrupted maternal affective communication, and aggressive and hyperactive behavior problems at age 5. Results are discussed in relation to the convergent and discriminant validity of the new measure and to the potential utility of a standardized observational measure of indiscriminate attachment behavior. Further validation is needed in relation to caregiver report measures of indiscriminate behavior.
FREIMAN THEOREM, FOURIER TRANSFORM AND ADDITIVE STRUCTURE OF MEASURES
Authors: IOSEVICH A. , RUDNEV M.
Published: April 2009

We use the Freiman theorem in arithmetic combinatorics to show that if the Fourier transform of certain measures satisfies sufficiently bad estimates, then the support of the measure possesses an additive structure. The result is then discussed in light of the Falconer distance problem.
Age Differences in Work Motivation in a Sample from Five Northern European Countries
Authors: Inceoglu Ilke , Segers Jesse , Bartram Dave , Vloeberghs Daniël
Published: April 2009

Abstract. This paper investigates the relationship between employee age and levels of trait-like dispositional motivation in a sample of 7644 individuals from five Northern European countries (Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden) who completed a comprehensive motivation questionnaire for selection or development purposes. Age differences in motivation were examined by controlling for demographic variables and testing for non-linear relationships. On the whole, effects were small, with age explaining up to 7 % incremental variance in specific motivation scales. Small effects were found for five motivation scales, which indicated a tendency for older employees in this sample to be more motivated by intrinsically rewarding job features but less motivated by features that entail low perceived utility or that are mainly extrinsically rewarding. Results were generally consistent across the five Nordic countries but in countries where the average retirement age is higher (i. e., in late-exit cultures) the decline was lower for progression. The findings generally support propositions from the literature which suggest a shift in people’s motivators rather than a general decline in motivation with age. As effect sizes are small, however, the differences observed for the age groups investigated in this sample are likely to have very little practical implications for human resource management.
Older Workers’ Informal Learning Competency
Authors: Roßnagel Christian Stamov , Schulz Melanie , Picard Michael , Voelpel Sven C.
Published: April 2009

Abstract. In a co-operation between Jacobs University and a German mail-order company, we explored age differences in informal learning competency. To reconcile the needs for practically relevant results and rigorous assessment, we relied on a two-step research strategy. First, we conducted an on-line survey of informal learning competency with employees from three age groups. Second, we followed up on the underlying processes in an experimental setting. The insights into the drivers of and barriers to learning competency inform the planning of tailored ”learning to learn” workshops that can fruitfully be integrated into the company’s T & D programme to promote sustainable career-long learning.