bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular detection of Monilinia fructigena as causal agent of brown rot on quince
Authors: Hrustic Jovana , Grahovac Mila , Mihajlovic Milica , Delibasic Goran , Ivanovic Mirko , Nikolic Mihailo , Tanovic Brankica
Published: April 2012

Species of the genus Monilinia are important causal agents of fruit rot on
pome and stone fruits in Serbia. The pathogen is very harmful, especially on
small properties and cottage plantations where intensive control measures
are not applied. Quince is important host for the pathogens of this genus.
During spring 2010, intensive occurrence of mummified fruits overwintering
on branches of the quince was observed. The pathogen was isolated using
standard phytopathological methods. Pathogenicity of eight obtained isolates
was tested by artificial inoculation of injured apple fruits. Identification
was performed according to pathogenic, morphological and ecological
properties, and was confirmed by Multiplex polimeraze chain reaction, PCR.
All the isolates studied caused brown rot on inoculated apple fruits. The
isolates form light yellow colonies with lobate margins, with single-celled,
transparent, elliptical or oval conidia in chains, regardless temperature or
light presence. Sclerotia are observed in 14 days old cultures. The highest
growth rate of most of the isolates is at 27?C and in dark. Based on studied
pathogenic, morphological and ecological characteristics, it was found that
the Monilinia fructigena is causal agent of brown rot of quince. Using
specific primers (MO368-5, MO368-8R, MO368-10R, Laxa-R2) for detection of
Monilinia species in Multiplex PCR reaction, the expected fragment 402 bp in
size was amplified, which confirmed that the studied isolates belonged to
the species M. fructigena.
Taxonomic diversity of fungi associated with some PCN populations from Serbia
Authors: Oro Violeta , Boskovic Jelena , Milenkovic Slobodan , Tosi Solveig
Published: April 2012

Increased content of pesticides in food chain resulted in using
microorganisms as agents of biological control. The potato cyst nematodes
(PCN) - Globodera pallida and G. rostochiensis belong to the group of the
most important parasites - the quarantine organisms. The external and
internal area of a cyst harbor numerous fungal and bacterial species. The aim
of this study was to identify antagonistic fungi associated with some PCN
populations from Serbia. Fungal antagonists of potato cyst nematodes have not
been previously investigated in our country. The diversity of PCN fungal
antagonists is not reflected only at the species level but also at the level
of higher taxonomic categories.
Dialogue on Modernity and Modern Education in Dispute
Authors: Baker Michael , Peters Michael A.
Published: April 2012

This is a dialogue or conversation between Michael Baker (MB) and Michael A. Peters (MP) on the concept of modernity and its significance for educational theory. The dialogue took place originally as a conversation about a symposium on modernity held at the American Educational Studies Association meeting 2010. It was later developed for publication in this form.
Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid Type 1–Dependent Regulation of Liver-Related Neurons in the Paraventricular Nucleus of the Hypothalamus Diminished in the Type 1 Diabetic Mouse
Authors: Gao Hong , Miyata Kayoko , Bhaskaran Muthu D. , Derbenev Andrei V. , Zsombok Andrea
Published: April 2012

The paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus controls the autonomic neural output to the liver, thereby participating in the regulation of hepatic glucose production (HGP); nevertheless, mechanisms controlling the activity of liver-related PVN neurons are not known. Transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) is involved in glucose homeostasis and colocalizes with liver-related PVN neurons; however, the functional role of TRPV1 regarding liver-related PVN neurons has to be elucidated. A retrograde viral tracer was used to identify liver-related neurons within the brain-liver circuit in control, type 1 diabetic, and insulin-treated mice. Our data indicate that TRPV1 regulates liver-related PVN neurons. This TRPV1-dependent excitation diminished in type 1 diabetic mice. In vivo and in vitro insulin restored TRPV1 activity in a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase C–dependent manner and stimulated TRPV1 receptor trafficking to the plasma membrane. There was no difference in total TRPV1 protein expression; however, increased phosphorylation of TRPV1 receptors was observed in type 1 diabetic mice. Our data demonstrate that TRPV1 plays a pivotal role in the regulation of liver-related PVN neurons. Moreover, TRPV1-dependent excitation of liver-related PVN neurons diminishes in type 1 diabetes, thus indicating that the brain-liver autonomic circuitry is altered in type 1 diabetes and may contribute to the autonomic dysfunction of HGP.
Reduced Insulin Exocytosis in Human Pancreatic β-Cells With Gene Variants Linked to Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Rosengren Anders H. , Braun Matthias , Mahdi Taman , Andersson Sofia A. , Travers Mary E. , Shigeto Makoto , Zhang Enming , Almgren Peter , Ladenvall Claes , Axelsson Annika S. , Edlund Anna , Pedersen Morten Gram , Jonsson Anna , Ramracheya Reshma , Tang Yunzhao , Walker Jonathan N. , Barrett Amy , Johnson Paul R.V. , Lyssenko Valeriya , McCarthy Mark I. , Groop Leif , Salehi Albert , Gloyn Anna L. , Renström Erik , Rorsman Patrik , Eliasson Lena
Published: April 2012

The majority of genetic risk variants for type 2 diabetes (T2D) affect insulin secretion, but the mechanisms through which they influence pancreatic islet function remain largely unknown. We functionally characterized human islets to determine secretory, biophysical, and ultrastructural features in relation to genetic risk profiles in diabetic and nondiabetic donors. Islets from donors with T2D exhibited impaired insulin secretion, which was more pronounced in lean than obese diabetic donors. We assessed the impact of 14 disease susceptibility variants on measures of glucose sensing, exocytosis, and structure. Variants near TCF7L2 and ADRA2A were associated with reduced glucose-induced insulin secretion, whereas susceptibility variants near ADRA2A, KCNJ11, KCNQ1, and TCF7L2 were associated with reduced depolarization-evoked insulin exocytosis. KCNQ1, ADRA2A, KCNJ11, HHEX/IDE, and SLC2A2 variants affected granule docking. We combined our results to create a novel genetic risk score for β-cell dysfunction that includes aberrant granule docking, decreased Ca2+ sensitivity of exocytosis, and reduced insulin release. Individuals with a high risk score displayed an impaired response to intravenous glucose and deteriorating insulin secretion over time. Our results underscore the importance of defects in β-cell exocytosis in T2D and demonstrate the potential of cellular phenotypic characterization in the elucidation of complex genetic disorders.
Center-symmetric effective theory for two-color quark matter
Authors: Brauner Tomáš
Published: April 2012

We revisit the center-symmetric dimensionally reduced effective theory for two-color Yang-Mills theory at high temperature. This effective theory includes an order parameter for deconfinement and thus allows to broaden the range of validity of the conventional three-dimensional effective theory (EQCD) towards the confining phase transition. We extend the previous results by including the effects of massive quarks with nonzero baryon chemical potential. The parameter space of the theory is constrained by leading-order matching to the Polyakov loop effective potential of two-color QCD. Once all the parameters are fixed, the effective theory can provide model-independent predictions for the physics above the deconfinement transition, thus bridging the gap between large-scale numerical simulations and semi-analytical calculations within phenomenological models.
Oxidation of ammonia using modified TiO2 catalyst and UV-VIS irradiation
Authors: Kowalczyk Łukasz , Szynkowska Małgorzata
Published: April 2012

The impact of UV and VIS irradiation and specific nitrogen modification on a 5%Cu/5%TiO2/SiO2 catalyst in the course of oxidation of ammonia was investigated. It was demonstrated that both UV and VIS irradiation increased the conversion of the reactant in the reaction studied. Due to a good distribution of titanium dioxide and copper on the surface of the support, higher ammonia conversion was achieved. Physico-chemical characterisation of the catalysts studied using methods such as BET, SEM-EDS, TPD (NH3), and TPD (CO2) was carried out.
Pensions and Unpaid Work: A Reflection on Four Decades of Feminist Debate
Authors: Kodar Freya
Published: April 2012

Au cours des dernières années, on a longuement analysé et débattu la réforme des pensions. Cependant, on n'a pas vraiment discuté comment comptabiliser le travail des femmes non rémunéré, et pourtant nécessaire pour la société, aux fins du Régime de pensions. Pour examiner ce problème en apparence persistant, le présent article étudie les débats menés sur le travail non rémunéré et les pensions depuis la publication en 1970 du Rapport de la Commission royale d'enquête sur la situation de la femme au Canada. L'auteure observe que malgré les changements majeurs ou mineurs apportés au Régime de pensions du Canada, la sécurité financière des femmes à la retraite est encore largement définie par le salaire qu'elles ont touché dans leur vie, ou leur lien avec un salarié dans leur ménage.
The Ascorbate-glutathione-α-tocopherol Triad in Abiotic Stress Response
Authors: Szarka András , Tomasskovics Bálint , Bánhegyi Gábor
Published: April 2012

The life of any living organism can be defined as a hurdle due to different kind of stresses. As with all living organisms, plants are exposed to various abiotic stresses, such as drought, salinity, extreme temperatures and chemical toxicity. These primary stresses are often interconnected, and lead to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plants, which are highly reactive and toxic and cause damage to proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and DNA, which ultimately results in oxidative stress. Stress-induced ROS accumulation is counteracted by enzymatic antioxidant systems and non-enzymatic low molecular weight metabolites, such as ascorbate, glutathione and α-tocopherol. The above mentioned low molecular weight antioxidants are also capable of chelating metal ions, reducing thus their catalytic activity to form ROS and also scavenge them. Hence, in plant cells, this triad of low molecular weight antioxidants (ascorbate, glutathione and α-tocopherol) form an important part of abiotic stress response. In this work we are presenting a review of abiotic stress responses connected to these antioxidants.
Optical Properties of Bismuth Tellurite Based Glass
Authors: Oo Hooi Ming , Mohamed-Kamari Halimah , Wan-Yusoff Wan Mohd Daud
Published: April 2012

A series of binary tellurite based glasses (Bi2O3)x (TeO2)100−x was prepared by melt quenching method. The density, molar volume and refractive index increase when bismuth ions Bi3+ increase, this is due to the increased polarization of the ions Bi3+ and the enhanced formation of non-bridging oxygen (NBO). The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results show the bonding of the glass sample and the optical band gap, Eopt decreases while the refractive index increases when the ion Bi3+ content increases.
Japanese Interest in “Hotaru” (Fireflies) and “Kabuto-Mushi” (Japanese Rhinoceros Beetles) Corresponds with Seasonality in Visible Abundance
Authors: Takada Kenta
Published: April 2012

Seasonal changes in the popularity of fireflies [usually Genji-fireflies (Luciola cruciata Motschulsky) in Japan] and Japanese rhinoceros beetles [Allomyrina dichotoma (Linne)] were investigated to examine whether contemporary Japanese are interested in visible emergence of these insects as seasonal events. The popularity of fireflies and Japanese rhinoceros beetles was assessed by the Google search volume of their Japanese names, “Hotaru” and “Kabuto-mushi” in Japanese Katakana script using Google Trends. The search volume index for fireflies and Japanese rhinoceros beetles was distributed across seasons with a clear peak in only particular times of each year from 2004 to 2011. In addition, the seasonal peak of popularity for fireflies occurred at the beginning of June, whereas that for Japanese rhinoceros beetles occurred from the middle of July to the beginning of August. Thus seasonal peak of each species coincided with the peak period of the emergence of each adult stage. These findings indicated that the Japanese are interested in these insects primarily during the time when the two species are most visibly abundant. Although untested, this could suggest that fireflies and Japanese rhinoceros beetles are perceived by the general public as indicators or symbols of summer in Japan.
Anti-inflammatory Activity of Hautriwaic Acid Isolated from Dodonaea viscosa Leaves
Authors: Salinas-Sánchez David Osvaldo , Herrera-Ruiz Maribel , Pérez Salud , Jiménez-Ferrer Enrique , Zamilpa Alejandro
Published: April 2012

The aim of this study was to identify an anti-inflammatory compound from D. viscosa leaves. The structure of this bioactive substance was elucidated by IR and NMR studies, which indicated that this natural product corresponds to hautriwaic acid (HA). This diterpene exhibited good anti-inflammatory activity in 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) mice ear edema models by applications at doses of 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 mg/ear (60.2, 70.2 and 87.1% inhibition, respectively); additionally Dodonaea viscosa dichloro-methane extract (DvDE) displays a 97.8% anti-inflammatory effect at 3 mg/kg. Multiple applications of DvDE at doses of 100 mg/kg on TPA mice ear edema inhibited the edema-associated inflammation by 71.8%, while HA at doses of 15 mg/kg, reduced edema to 64% and indomethacin 40%.
Organocatalysis in Synthesis: L-Proline as an Enantioselective Catalyst in the Synthesis of Pyrans and Thiopyrans
Authors: Elnagdi Noha M. Hilmy , Al-Hokbany Noura Saad
Published: April 2012

The multicomponent reaction (MCR) of aromatic aldehydes 1 and malononitrile (2) with active methylenes 5a–h in the presence of L-proline produced pyrans and thiopyrans 6a–h stereospecifically and in good yields. Moreover a novel MCR of ethyl propiolate (8) with 1 and 2 in the presence of L-proline to afford (R)-polysubstituted pyran is also reported. X-ray structures, e.e. and optical activity of the synthesized compounds indicated that L-proline as a catalyst is responsible for the observed enantioselectivity in the studied reactions.
The Application of LiDAR to Assessment of Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic Deployment Potential in a Municipal District Unit
Authors: Nguyen Ha T. , Pearce Joshua M. , Harrap Rob , Barber Gerald
Published: April 2012

A methodology is provided for the application of Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) to automated solar photovoltaic (PV) deployment analysis on the regional scale. Challenges in urban information extraction and management for solar PV deployment assessment are determined and quantitative solutions are offered. This paper provides the following contributions: (i) a methodology that is consistent with recommendations from existing literature advocating the integration of cross-disciplinary competences in remote sensing (RS), GIS, computer vision and urban environmental studies; (ii) a robust methodology that can work with low-resolution, incomprehensive data and reconstruct vegetation and building separately, but concurrently; (iii) recommendations for future generation of software. A case study is presented as an example of the methodology. Experience from the case study such as the trade-off between time consumption and data quality are discussed to highlight a need for connectivity between demographic information, electrical engineering schemes and GIS and a typical factor of solar useful roofs extracted per method. Finally, conclusions are developed to provide a final methodology to extract the most useful information from the lowest resolution and least comprehensive data to provide solar electric assessments over large areas, which can be adapted anywhere in the world.
Multispectral Palmprint Recognition Using a Quaternion Matrix
Authors: Xu Xingpeng , Guo Zhenhua , Song Changjiang , Li Yafeng
Published: April 2012

Palmprints have been widely studied for biometric recognition for many years. Traditionally, a white light source is used for illumination. Recently, multispectral imaging has drawn attention because of its high recognition accuracy. Multispectral palmprint systems can provide more discriminant information under different illuminations in a short time, thus they can achieve better recognition accuracy. Previously, multispectral palmprint images were taken as a kind of multi-modal biometrics, and the fusion scheme on the image level or matching score level was used. However, some spectral information will be lost during image level or matching score level fusion. In this study, we propose a new method for multispectral images based on a quaternion model which could fully utilize the multispectral information. Firstly, multispectral palmprint images captured under red, green, blue and near-infrared (NIR) illuminations were represented by a quaternion matrix, then principal component analysis (PCA) and discrete wavelet transform (DWT) were applied respectively on the matrix to extract palmprint features. After that, Euclidean distance was used to measure the dissimilarity between different features. Finally, the sum of two distances and the nearest neighborhood classifier were employed for recognition decision. Experimental results showed that using the quaternion matrix can achieve a higher recognition rate. Given 3000 test samples from 500 palms, the recognition rate can be as high as 98.83%.
Quorum Quenching Revisited—From Signal Decays to Signalling Confusion
Authors: Hong Kar-Wai , Koh Chong-Lek , Sam Choon-Kook , Yin Wai-Fong , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: April 2012

In a polymicrobial community, while some bacteria are communicating with neighboring cells (quorum sensing), others are interrupting the communication (quorum quenching), thus creating a constant arms race between intercellular communication. In the past decade, numerous quorum quenching enzymes have been found and initially thought to inactivate the signalling molecules. Though this is widely accepted, the actual roles of these quorum quenching enzymes are now being uncovered. Recent evidence extends the role of quorum quenching to detoxification or metabolism of signalling molecules as food and energy source; this includes “signalling confusion”, a term coined in this paper to refer to the phenomenon of non-destructive modification of signalling molecules. While quorum quenching has been explored as a novel anti-infective therapy targeting, quorum sensing evidence begins to show the development of resistance against quorum quenching.
Sustainable Business: Are We Heading in the Right Direction?
Authors: Clifton Don
Published: April 2012

This paper questions why, despite the sustainable development concept having been prominent at an international level for well over 20 years, there is little to show by way of a transition to a sustainable world. Instead, in many ways, the situation is deteriorating. The paper critiques the mainstream sustainable development approach as advocated by business, and as is prominent in the political sphere, to consider if this is itself a key problem. The paper concludes that it is. Rather than helping society achieve needed change, this approach can create a false sense of progress that acts as a barrier to the more decisive action that is necessary to address the underlying drivers of humanity's unsustainable behaviours. Further, the paper proposes that the very act of pursuing mainstream sustainable development makes a sustainable world harder to achieve. A way forward for the business sector is proposed by it embracing a more transformational sustainable world approach in both its internal activities and in its advocacy in the broader public and political space.
Golf Course Irrigation with Reclaimed Water in the Mediterranean: A Risk Management Matter
Authors: Salgot Miquel , Priestley Gerda K. , Folch Montserrat
Published: April 2012

Controversy regarding the amount of water consumed or saved as a result of human activity is currently paramount in water-scarce areas. In recent decades, golf—a land and water consuming activity—has been implanted in several areas of the Mediterranean basin, where the scarcity of water resources is well-known. As a result, the use of conventional water resources for golf course irrigation is increasingly contested and its replacement by reclaimed water has become essential. This paper examines the wide range of issues involved in its use on golf courses, including hazards—due to the presence of microorganisms and pollutants—and the corresponding risks that can appear. The resulting biological, chemical and physical water quality concerns are analyzed. Legal aspects related to the use of reclaimed water are also discussed and good reuse practices are suggested, including a detailed examination of risk assessment procedures and tools through observation or chemical, physical and microbiological analysis. The HACCP system—which focuses on quality determination in water samples from relevant control points—is described in detail, as it is generally accepted as one of the most scientific ways to detect health problems on a golf course. The paper concludes that, given the increasing availability of treated and reclaimed water and the water needs of golf courses, the future development of the sport in areas without surplus water resources—such as the Mediterranean basin—will predictably depend upon the use of reclaimed water. In recent years, risk assessment or analysis has emerged as an essential tool to guarantee the application of reclaimed water at an acceptable risk level. There certainly have been considerable advances and improvements in the tools that guarantee the safe use of reclaimed water, although current methods available require simplification for their practical application. Nevertheless, protocols applied at present seem to be adequate in order to address the key issue of enhancing the development of reclaimed water use on golf courses.
E-Manuscript Article Summaries*
Authors: Kubon T.M. , McClennen J. , Fitch M.I. , McAndrew A. , Anderson J.
Published: April 2012

Background: Of all mastectomy patients, 90% will use an external prosthesis where the standard of care uses a stock prosthesis that is purchased “off the shelf.” Our objectives were to determine patient demand for and perceived value of a custom breast prosthesis. The information obtained will influence future research and program direction. Methods: We asked 65 women who had undergone lumpectomy or mastectomy to participate before exploring rehabilitation options. The quantitative outcome measures were the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 general and -BR23 breast cancer–specific quality of life questionnaires, and the Ambulatory Oncology Patients Satisfaction Tool. The QLQ results were analyzed using the Mann–Whitney U-test. Results of the satisfaction tool were compared using the Fisher exact and chi-square tests. A descriptive qualitative approach—involving in-depth interviews exploring the experiences of the women—was used to establish the perceived value of the services to the patients. The analysis of the interview transcripts was conducted using a standardized content method to describe the experiences of the women. Results: All the women had had previous experiences with a conventional prosthesis, and they reported that wearing a custom prosthesis was more satisfying for them. They reported comfort and ease in wearing it, coupled with a sense of feeling less like a victim. Comparison of the qlq and patient satisfaction scores showed no significant difference between the women wearing the conventional prosthesis and those wearing the custom prosthesis. Conclusions: The willingness of women to pay for a prosthesis and the qualitative results from the present study demonstrate that there is demand for a custom approach to treatment. However, if a mixed-methods approach had not been applied during this initial exploration of women’s experiences with custom breast prostheses, the essence of the perceived value of the custom prosthesis would have been lost. Quantitative measures suggest that there is no difference between custom and conventional breast prostheses, but the qualitative data captured in the study provide a sense of aspects of care that a standardized outcome measure cannot capture. Further research with a larger sample size is needed to determine if real differences from a quantitative perspective are possible. Suggestions for improvements in the device and in program operations were gathered and will influence the future development and implementation of a breast prosthesis service, but financial assistance will most likely be needed to make such a service universally accessible.
Les impasses de la dernière nosographie freudienne
Authors: Mettens Pascal
Published: April 2012

Résumé Après un examen minutieux des textes psychopathologiques du dernier Freud (de 1924 à 1938), l’auteur démontre, outre l’existence de psychoses sexuelles dans la dernière nosographie freudienne, que cette dernière englobe potentiellement tout le champ de la psychopathologie, et cela sans faire référence à la théorie des états limites qui lui paraît partiellement erronée. En raisonnant en termes de processus et non de plus de contenus, paranoïa et mélancolie se voient en outre considérées comme des perversions de la paternité. Les psychopathies et les thymopathies, de leur côté, trouvent enfin en psychanalyse leur juste place au sein des névroses actuelles dans les ultimes élaborations de Freud.
Construction de la limite interne et « bon usage du double interdit du toucher » dans des groupes thérapeutiques de jeunes enfants
Authors: Jacquet Éric
Published: April 2012

Résumé À partir de son expérience d’animation de groupes thérapeutiques d’enfants psychotiques et autistes entre 3 et 6 ans, dont il donne un exemple détaillé, l’auteur montre comment s’opère l’installation d’une symbiose thérapeutique qui a vocation à renforcer les frontières du moi, puis d’une progressive distanciation contribuant à la constitution des limites internes nécessaires au processus de symbolisation. Sa lecture clinique s’appuie en particulier sur le concept de « double interdit du toucher » de D. Anzieu et sur son établissement progressif au fil des séances. Il en fait un axe organisateur essentiel du processus associatif groupal dont l’enjeu fondamental est de transitionnaliser le surmoi préœdipien.
Les défis de la compétitivité en Belgique
Authors: Vandecandelaere Siska , Yasse Sébastien
Published: April 2012

Résumé Le présent article décrit les défis de la compétitivité de la Belgique et se base sur la note rédigée à ce sujet conjointement par la BNB, le BFP et le secrétariat du CCE. Cette note montre une image nuancée de la compétitivité de la Belgique. D’une part, l’économie belge occupe une bonne place au sein de l’Europe puisqu’elle affiche un PIB par habitant élevé ainsi qu’un solde courant positif. Cette position est cependant mise à l’épreuve ainsi qu’il ressort de la baisse du surplus de la balance commerciale et de la croissance plus rapide des CUT que la moyenne des trois pays voisins. En outre, la concurrence mondiale exacerbée par la disponibilité limitée de l’énergie et de matières premières ainsi que par le vieillissement ne manquera sans doute pas de peser sur notre prospérité dans les années à venir. Si l’économie belge veut pérenniser son modèle social, elle devra apporter une réponse à ces évolutions profondes. JEL : L16, O47 en O52
La loi relative à la promotion de l'emploi et à la sauvegarde préventive de la compétitivité : bilan et perspectives
Authors: Bogaert Henri
Published: April 2012

Résumé Cet article tente de faire un bref bilan de la loi de 1996 relative à la promotion de l’emploi et à la sauvegarde préventive de la compétitivité. Que dit la loi ? Comment celle-ci a-t-elle été appliquée ? D’où proviennent les dérapages des salaires par rapport à ceux de nos voisins ? Comment améliorer le fonctionnement de la loi ? Voilà quelques questions auxquelles il est brièvement fait écho. Le constat est que la loi a été un instrument de gestion macroéconomique remarquable, même si il y a des améliorations indispensables à apporter, en particulier dans ses aspects structurels. Dommage que la Grèce, le Portugal ou l’Italie n’ont pas pu bénéficier d’une telle loi !
‘New Industrial Policy' in Flanders: An Integrated Policy Framework for a New Productivity Revolution
Authors: Larosse Jan
Published: April 2012

Résumé La nouvelle politique industrielle pour la Flandre s’inscrit dans une nouvelle génération de politiques industrielles pour le vingt et unième siècle. Elle replace le défi de la Flandre en matière de compétitivité dans le cadre d’une politique de transformation visant le développement de « clusters » internationaux basés sur la connaissance, en conformité avec le plan d’avenir du gouvernement flamand « La Flandre en action ». Le présent article explore les facteurs de succès d’une telle politique de changement structurel dans le contexte du ralentissement de la productivité, qui représente un défi pour toutes les économies développées, et en particulier pour l’économie flamande. Une analyse concrète des performances économiques de la Flandre révèle que le modèle de compétitivité et de croissance s’est appuyé trop longtemps sur une stratégie d’intensification du capital plutôt que sur l’innovation. En outre, la fragmentation institutionnelle de la Belgique a créé des déséquilibres structurels dans le système d’innovation flamand entre la structure scientifique et industrielle, des déséquilibres qui entravent la transition vers un nouveau modèle de croissance. En publiant en mai 2011 le « Livre blanc pour une nouvelle politique industrielle pour la Flandre », le gouvernement flamand a pris acte que la désindustrialisation était une menace pour l’ambition de la Flandre de figurer parmi les régions leaders de l’Europe et qu’il était nécessaire d’adopter une nouvelle stratégie d’innovation industrielle axée sur les chaînes de valeur et les clusters. Le Livre blanc a posé les fondements de cette nouvelle politique de transformation avec une vision forte pour la « Nouvelle usine du futur », une coordination renforcée entre les domaines politiques et une grande mobilisation des parties prenantes. La nouvelle approche reconnaît que la transition vers une économie portée par l’innovation nécessite une nouvelle révolution en matière de productivité, via la mobilisation de l’ensemble des ressources sous-utilisées dans la « productivité globale des facteurs », mais le succès dépendra de la mise en œuvre d’un cadre politique intégré et d’une gouvernance stratégique adéquate. Codes JEL : L52, O38, O43 en O52
Guidelines for Evaluating and Managing Children Born with Disorders of Sexual Development
Authors: Douglas Ganka , Axelrad Marni E. , Brandt Mary L. , Crabtree Elizabeth , Dietrich Jennifer E. , French Shannon , Gunn Sheila , Karaviti Lefkothea , Lopez Monica E. , Macias Charles G. , McCullough Laurence B. , Suresh Deepa , Austin Elise , Reid Sutton V.
Published: April 2012

Children born with disorders of sexual differentiation (DSD) pose numerous challenges for the parents, family, and treating physicians. The pediatrician is usually the first medical contact for newborns with DSD or for toddlers and children who present with DSD at a later time.

Several years ago, we formed a Gender Medicine Team (GMT) at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH) to explore and evaluate the most appropriate management strategies, which had long been a matter of concern and contention. Subsequently, the GMT, composed of experts in the fields of endocrinology, ethics, genetics, gynecology, psychology, pediatric surgery, and urology, formed a Task Force to evaluate the information available from our own experiences and from reviews of the literature. Utilizing the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system to assess the evidence and recommendations, the Task Force developed a consensus statement for clinical management of DSD and for making appropriate sex assignments.
Knot Security: How Many Throws Does It Really Take?
Authors: Tidwell John E. , Kish Vincent L. , Samora Julie B. , Prud’homme Joseph
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this study was to determine the minimum number of throws needed for knot security for square knots using 5 common suture materials and 3 common sizes by in vitro single load to failure biomechanical testing. The hypothesis was that each suture combination studied would share a common minimum of at least 5 throws to guarantee security. Five suture materials (FiberWire [Arthrex, Inc, Naples, Florida], Monosof, Surgipro, Maxon, and Polysorb [Covidien, Mansfield, Massachusetts]) with varying suture sizes (#5, #2, 0, 2-0, and 4-0) were tied in vitro, varying the number of square knot throws (3, 4, 5, and 6). Twenty knots for each combination were statically loaded to failure in tension; whether the knot failed by fracture or slippage and the tensile strength at knot failure was determined. For the tested materials, at least 5 flat square throws should be used to confer knot security based on a binomial proportion score 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.84 to 1.0 or at least 4 throws for a 95% CI of 0.76 to 0.99. FiberWire requires 6 flat square throws per knot for security at either 95% CI level. Unless a surgeon has specific knowledge of experimental evidence that fewer throws are necessary for a specific application, the default should be a minimum of 4 throws, with 5 conferring additional security in most situations, and FiberWire requiring 6 throws.
Treatment of Compartment Syndrome of the Thigh Associated With Acute Renal Failure After the Wenchuan Earthquake
Authors: Duan Xin , Zhang Kaiwei , Zhong Gang , Cen Shiqiang , Huang Fuguo , Lv Jingtong , Xiang Zhou
Published: April 2012

Compartment syndrome of the thigh is a rare emergency often treated operatively. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of nonoperative treatment for compartment syndrome of the thigh associated with acute renal failure after the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake. Nonoperative treatment, which primarily involves continuous renal replacement therapy, was performed in 6 patients (3 men and 3 women) who presented with compartment syndrome of the thigh associated with acute renal failure. The mean mangled extremity severity score (MESS) and laboratory data regarding renal function were analyzed before and after treatment, and the clinical outcome was evaluated at 17-month follow-up. Laboratory data regarding renal function showed improvements. All 6 patients survived with the affected lower limbs intact after nonoperative treatment. Follow-up revealed active knee range of motion and increased muscle strength, as well as a recovery of sensation. A positive linear correlation was found between MESS and the time required to achieve a reduction in swelling, as well as the time required for the recovery of sensation and knee range of motion (
r
>0.8;
P
<.05). Satisfactory clinical outcomes were obtained in patients with compartment syndrome of the thigh associated with acute renal failure.

Urine alkalization, electrolyte and water balance, and continuous renal replacement therapy have played an important role in saving lives and extremities. Nonoperative treatment should be considered in the treatment of compartment syndrome of the thigh associated with acute renal failure.
Retrograde Nailing of a Femoral Supracondyle
Authors: Wu Chi-Chuan , Tai Ching-Lung
Published: April 2012

Because standard femoral supracondylar nails have certain disadvantages, they are often replaced by traditional femoral or tibial locked nails. The purpose of this study was to make a biomechanical comparison between both types of traditional locked nails to determine which technique was more suitable for treating unstable femoral supracondylar fractures. Fourteen left Sawbones femurs (Pacific Research Laboratories, Vashon, Washington) were osteotomized in the femoral supracondylar area. One centimeter of the medial cortex in the proximal fragment was obliquely removed to simulate an unstable fracture without shortening. Seven specimens were treated with traditional retrograde dynamic femoral locked nails, and the other 7 with traditional retrograde dynamic tibial locked nails. All specimens were tested with a servohydraulic materials testing machine to compare their relative stability. Static compression, dynamic cyclic compression, and static compression to failure were tested. An extensometer was used to measure the displacement of fragments. Displacement between the fragments increased following the increment in loads in both nails. The load–displacement curve was nearly linear up to 1000 N for both nails. The femoral nail had a greater stiffness compared with the tibial nail at 100 and 200 N (
P
=.02 and
P
=.04, respectively) in static compression and at 700 to 1000 N (
P
=.01 in each case) in dynamic cyclic compression, as well as larger loads in static compression to failure (8663 vs 7547 N, respectively;
P
<.001). Clinically, a traditional femoral locked nail may be more suitable to replace a standard femoral supracondylar nail in a retrograde fashion to treat an unstable femoral supracondylar fracture.
Tendon Sheath Fibroma in the Thigh
Authors: Moretti Vincent M. , Ashana Adedayo O. , de la Cruz Michael , Lackman Richard D.
Published: April 2012

Tendon sheath fibromas are rare, benign soft tissue tumors that are predominantly found in the fingers, hands, and wrists of young adult men. This article describes a tendon sheath fibroma that developed in the thigh of a 70-year-old man, the only known tendon sheath fibroma to form in this location. Similar to tendon sheath fibromas that develop elsewhere, our patient’s lesion presented as a painless, slow-growing soft tissue nodule. Physical examination revealed a firm, nontender mass with no other associated signs or symptoms. Although the imaging appearance of tendon sheath fibromas varies, our patient’s lesion appeared dark on T1- and bright on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. It was well marginated and enhanced with contrast.

Histologically, tendon sheath fibromas are composed of dense fibrocollagenous stromas with scattered spindle-shaped fibroblasts and narrow slit-like vascular spaces. Most tendon sheath fibromas can be successfully removed by marginal excision, although 24% of lesions recur. No lesions have metastasized. Our patient’s tendon sheath fibroma was removed by marginal excision, and the patient remained disease free 35 months postoperatively. Despite its rarity, tendon sheath fibroma should be included in the differential diagnosis of a thigh mass on physical examination or imaging, especially if it is painless, nontender, benign appearing, and present in men.
Total En Bloc Spondylectomy of L3 Vertebra for Histiocytic Sarcoma
Authors: Lin Bin , Chen Zhi-wen , Wang Ning , Guo Zhi-min , Liu Hui , Zeng Ming
Published: April 2012

This article describes a rare malignant spinal tumor successfully treated with total en bloc spondylectomy via a posterior approach. The purpose of this study was to emphasize the occurrence of primary histiocytic sarcoma in the lumbar spine. Histiocytic sarcomas are rare, malignant neoplasms of the lymphohematopoietic system that usually occur in the skin, lymph nodes, and intestinal tracts. Primary spinal column histiocytic sarcoma is rare. To the authors’ knowledge, no reports have been published of treating this tumor with total en bloc spondylectomy.

A 27-year-old woman presented with a 2-month history of intermittent low back pain and right lower extremity pain. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography (CT) revealed a lumbar vertebra tumor. Positron emission tomography/CT showed focal accumulation in the tumor site. The patient was diagnosed with a histiocytic sarcoma based on biopsy findings and underwent total en bloc spondylectomy of L3 and reconstruction via a posterior approach. The patient maintained normal neurologic function, and the pain was lessened. No major complications occurred. No radiotherapy or chemotherapy was administered postoperatively, and no local tumor recurrence or distant metastases existed at 2-year follow-up.

The diagnosis of histiocytic sarcoma relies predominantly on the verification of histiocytic lineage and the exclusion of other, poorly differentiated, large-cell malignancies by immunohistochemical stain. Total en bloc spondylectomy at L3 via a posterior approach can be performed safely and is an important approach in the treatment of selected spinal tumors.
Anomalous single pulmonary venous trunk
Authors: Rasheed Hadi Abu , Reinking Benjamin E
Published: April 2012

We present a rare case of a single pulmonary venous trunk that drains all pulmonary segments to the left atrium. This anomaly may mimic pulmonary arteriovenous malformation on imaging. This report briefly discusses the embryology of the pulmonary veins and the classification of the pulmonary veins anomalies.
Microlocal limits of Eisenstein functions away from the unitarity axis
Authors: Dyatlov Semyon
Published: April 2012

We consider a surface

M

with constant curvature cusp ends and its Eisenstein functions

E_j(\lambda)

. These are the plane waves associated to the

j

th cusp and the spectral parameter

\lambda

,

(\Delta-1/4-\lambda^2)E_j=0

. We prove that as

\mathrm {Re} \lambda\to \infty

and

\mathrm {Im} \lambda\to\nu>0

,

E_j

converges microlocally to a certain naturally defined measure decaying exponentially along the geodesic flow. In particular, for a surface with one cusp and a sequence of

\lambda

's corresponding to scattering resonances, we find the microlocal limit of resonant states with energies away from the real line. This statement is similar to quantum unique ergodicity (QUE), which holds in certain other situations; however, the proof uses only the structure of the infinite ends, not the global properties of the geodesic flow. As an application, we also show that the scattering matrix tends to zero in strips separated from the real line.
BVOC-aerosol-climate interactions in the global aerosol-climate model ECHAM5.5-HAM2
Authors: Makkonen R. , Asmi A. , Kerminen V.-M. , Boy M. , Arneth A. , Guenther A. , Kulmala M.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. The biosphere emits volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) which, after oxidation in the atmosphere, can partition on the existing aerosol population or even form new particles. The large quantities emitted provide means for a large potential impact on both aerosol direct and indirect effects. Biogenic responses to atmospheric temperature change can establish feedbacks even in rather short timescales. However, due to the complexity of organic aerosol partitioning, even the sign of these feedbacks is of large uncertainty. We use the global aerosol-climate model ECHAM5.5-HAM2 to explore the effect of BVOC emissions on new particle formation, clouds and climate. Two BVOC emission models, MEGAN2 and LPJ-GUESS, are used to estimate the effect of BVOC-aerosol-climate coupling. The change of shortwave cloud forcing from year 1750 to 2000 ranges from −1.4 to −1.8 W m−2 with 5 different nucleation mechanisms. We show that the change in shortwave cloud forcing from the year 2000 to 2100 ranges from 1.0 to 1.5 W m−2. Although increasing future BVOC emissions provide 3–5% additional CCN, the effect on the cloud albedo change is modest. Due to simulated decreases in future cloud cover, the increased CCN concentrations from BVOCs can not provide significant additional cooling in the future.
An analysis of fast photochemistry over high northern latitudes during spring and summer using in-situ observations from ARCTAS and TOPSE
Authors: Olson J. R. , Crawford J. H. , Brune W. , Mao J. , Ren X. , Fried A. , Anderson B. , Apel E. , Beaver M. , Blake D. , Chen G. , Crounse J. , Dibb J. , Diskin G. , Hall S. R. , Huey L. G. , Knapp D. , Richter D. , Riemer D. , Clair J. St. , Ullmann K. , Walega J. , Weibring P. , Weinheimer A. , Wennberg P. , Wisthaler A.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. Observations of chemical constituents and meteorological quantities obtained during the two Arctic phases of the airborne campaign ARCTAS (Arctic Research of the Composition of the Troposphere from Aircraft and Satellites) are analyzed using an observationally constrained steady state box model. Measurements of OH and HO2 from the Penn State ATHOS instrument are compared to model predictions. Forty percent of OH measurements below 2 km are at the limit of detection during the spring phase (ARCTAS-A). While the median observed-to-calculated ratio is near one, both the scatter of observations and the model uncertainty for OH are at the magnitude of ambient values. During the summer phase (ARCTAS-B), model predictions of OH are biased low relative to observations and demonstrate a high sensitivity to the level of uncertainty in NO observations. Predictions of HO2 using observed CH2O and H2O2 as model constraints are up to a factor of two larger than observed. A temperature-dependent terminal loss rate of HO2 to aerosol recently proposed in the literature is shown to be insufficient to reconcile these differences. A comparison of ARCTAS-A to the high latitude springtime portion of the 2000 TOPSE campaign (Tropospheric Ozone Production about the Spring Equinox) shows similar meteorological and chemical environments with the exception of peroxides; observations of H2O2 during ARCTAS-A were 2.5 to 3 times larger than those during TOPSE. The cause of this difference in peroxides remains unresolved and has important implications for the Arctic HOx budget. Unconstrained model predictions for both phases indicate photochemistry alone is unable to simultaneously sustain observed levels of CH2O and H2O2; however when the model is constrained with observed CH2O, H2O2 predictions from a range of rainout parameterizations bracket its observations. A mechanism suitable to explain observed concentrations of CH2O is uncertain. Free tropospheric observations of acetaldehyde (CH3CHO) are 2–3 times larger than its predictions, though constraint of the model to those observations is sufficient to account for less than half of the deficit in predicted CH2O. The box model calculates gross O3 formation during spring to maximize from 1–4 km at 0.8 ppbv d−1, in agreement with estimates from TOPSE, and a gross production of 2–4 ppbv d−1 in the boundary layer and upper troposphere during summer. Use of the lower observed levels of HO2 in place of model predictions decreases the gross production by 25–50%. Net O3 production is near zero throughout the ARCTAS-A troposphere, and is 1–2 ppbv in the boundary layer and upper altitudes during ARCTAS-B.