bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetics of Polyketide Metabolism in Aspergillus nidulans
Authors: Klejnstrup Marie L. , Frandsen Rasmus J. N. , Holm Dorte K. , Nielsen Morten T. , Mortensen Uffe H. , Larsen Thomas O. , Nielsen Jakob B.
Published: January 2012

Secondary metabolites are small molecules that show large structural diversity and a broad range of bioactivities. Some metabolites are attractive as drugs or pigments while others act as harmful mycotoxins. Filamentous fungi have the capacity to produce a wide array of secondary metabolites including polyketides. The majority of genes required for production of these metabolites are mostly organized in gene clusters, which often are silent or barely expressed under laboratory conditions, making discovery and analysis difficult. Fortunately, the genome sequences of several filamentous fungi are publicly available, greatly facilitating the establishment of links between genes and metabolites. This review covers the attempts being made to trigger the activation of polyketide metabolism in the fungal model organism Aspergillus nidulans. Moreover, it will provide an overview of the pathways where ten polyketide synthase genes have been coupled to polyketide products. Therefore, the proposed biosynthesis of the following metabolites will be presented; naphthopyrone, sterigmatocystin, aspyridones, emericellamides, asperthecin, asperfuranone, monodictyphenone/emodin, orsellinic acid, and the austinols.
Selective Grafting of Primary Amines onto Carbon Nanotubes via Free-Radical Treatment in Microwave Plasma Post-Discharge
Authors: Ruelle Benoit , Peeterbroeck Sophie , Godfroid Thomas , Bittencourt Carla , Hecq Michel , Snyders Rony , Dubois Philippe
Published: January 2012

A novel strategy to graft functional groups at the surface of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is discussed. Aiming at grafting nitrogen containing groups, and more specifically primary amine covalent functionalization, CNTs were exposed under atomic nitrogen flow arising from an Ar + N2 microwave plasma. The primary amine functions were identified and quantified through chemical derivatization with 4-(trifluoromethyl)benzaldehyde and characterized through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The increase of the selectivity in the primary amines grafting onto CNTs, up to 66.7% for treatment of CNT powder, was performed via the reduction of post-treatment oxygen contamination and the addition of hydrogen in the experimental set-up, more particularly in the plasma post-discharge chamber. The analyses of nitrogenated and primary amine functions grafting on the CNT surface suggest that atomic nitrogen (N•) and reduced nitrogen species (NH• and NH2•) react preferentially with defect sites of CNTs and, then, only atomic nitrogen continues to react on the CNT surface, creating defects.
The Electromechanical Behavior of a Micro-Ring Driven by Traveling Electrostatic Force
Authors: Ye Xiuqian , Chen Yibao , Chen Da-Chih , Huang Kuo-Yi , Hu Yuh-Chung
Published: January 2012

There is no literature mentioning the electromechanical behavior of micro structures driven by traveling electrostatic forces. This article is thus the first to present the dynamics and stabilities of a micro-ring subjected to a traveling electrostatic force. The traveling electrostatic force may be induced by sequentially actuated electrodes which are arranged around the flexible micro-ring. The analysis is based on a linearized distributed model considering the electromechanical coupling effects between electrostatic force and structure. The micro-ring will resonate when the traveling speeds of the electrostatic force approach some critical speeds. The critical speeds are equal to the ratio of the natural frequencies to the wave number of the correlative natural mode of the ring. Apart from resonance, the ring may be unstable at some unstable traveling speeds. The unstable regions appear not only near the critical speeds, but also near some fractions of some critical speeds differences. Furthermore the unstable regions expand with increasing driving voltage. This article may lead to a new research branch on electrostatic-driven micro devices.
Leveling the Playing Field for Nursing Students With Disabilities: Implications of the Amendments to the Americans With Disabilities Act
Authors: Dupler Alice E. , Allen Carol , Maheady Donna C. , Fleming Susan E. , Allen Mikel
Published: January 2012

Faculty have reported a significant increase in the number of nursing students with disabilities; however, misinformation regarding legislated changes in the definition of adisability, as enacted in 2008 under the American with Disabilities Act Amendments Act, has contributed to faculty confusion when working with students with disabilities. This article identifies the circumstances under which nursing faculty are legally required to provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 as amended in 2008, and the strategies faculty may use to assist students to successfully complete core requirements. When this knowledge is integrated into a nursing program’s culture and curriculum, students with sensory loss, paralysis, mental illness, learning disabilities, limb differences, chronic illnesses, or other disabilities associated with impaired bodily functions can successfully complete nursing programs and provide excellent care to clients, the profession, and their communities.
Effect of Lidocaine Gel Anesthesia on Endophthalmitis Rates Following Intravitreal Injection
Authors: Lad Eleonora M. , Maltenfort Mitchell G. , Leng Theodore
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To determine whether the use of lidocaine gel before application of povidone-iodine affects endophthalmitis rates following intravitreal injections.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective consecutive case series of all intravitreal injections and post-intravitreal injection endophthalmitis cases at one institution from 2000 to 2009. A review of medical records of post-intravitreal injection endophthalmitis cases was performed to determine whether lidocaine gel was applied prior to povidone-iodine antisepsis and to analyze the clinical course and outcomes.

RESULTS:

A total of 8,802 intravitreal injections were administered during the study period. When no lidocaine gel was used prior to povidone-iodine antisepsis, four cases of endophthalmitis following 4,120 intravitreal injections (0.097%) were recorded. When 2% lidocaine gel was applied before povidone-iodine, four cases of endophthalmitis following 4,682 intravitreal injections (0.085%) were observed (
P
= 1.00, odds ratio = 1.12).

CONCLUSION:

The use of lidocaine gel prior to povidone-iodine antisepsis did not significantly alter post-intravitreal injection endophthalmitis rates.
Ciencia e Innovación. Una relación compleja y evolutiva
Authors: Fernández de Lucio Ignacio , Vega Jurado Jaider , Gutiérrez Gracia Antonio
Published: January 2012

La cada vez mayor importancia que está adquiriendo el conocimiento en las sociedades contemporáneas hace necesario profundizar en el análisis de la relación existente entre ciencia e innovación. Este artículo la aborda considerando como ha evolucionado nuestra concepción sobre los procesos de producción de conocimiento y el proceso innovador. La revisión bibliográfica realizada muestra que la emergencia de nuevos enfoques en estos campos ha generado una visión sobre la relación ciencia-innovación bastante diferente a la que predominaba hace algunas décadas. De esta forma, si bien por un lado se reconoce que el proceso innovador no depende exclusivamente del desarrollo de actividades científicas, por otro, se establece que el vínculo ciencia-innovación puede ser hoy mucho más estrecho, teniendo en cuenta que las actividades de investigación se desarrollan, cada vez más, en un contexto de aplicación. En el artículo se discute el alcance real de esta nueva visión y las implicaciones que tiene para el diseño de políticas públicas.
Los límites al crecimiento, el cambio climático y la innovación
Authors: Gallastegui Zulaica M. Carmen
Published: January 2012

Este artículo tiene como objetivo analizar lo que el medio ambiente y su gestión representa en términos de innovación social; las restricciones que el cuidado del medio ambiente y del planeta plantean, las medidas que se han adoptado, la forma en que las empresas han reaccionado y lo que nos depara todavía el futuro. Lo haremos utilizando dos ejemplos básicos: por un lado, el problema de los Límites al Crecimiento y por otro, el problema del Cambio Climático. Las soluciones que se están proponiendo, desde la mitigación, el uso de incentivos de mercado (precios e impuestos), creación de mercados de derechos de contaminación, soluciones “geo-ingeniereles”, impulso a la innovación tecnológica son claros exponentes de la forma en que la sociedad está enfrentándose al problema.
Incertidumbre, congruencia e institucionalización desigual: Las dinámicas de la innovación institucional en sociedades en tránsito
Authors: Waisman Carlos H.
Published: January 2012

El propósito de este artículo es analizar las variedades de Capitalismo que emergieron en Latinoamérica y la Europa Central del Este desde 1980 como ejemplos de transferencia institucional. En el artículo considero la posibilidad de que el capitalismo, al igual que la democracia, es un complejo paquete institucional antes que una institución elemental. Algunos de sus componentes viajan más rápido que otros a través de formas híbridas, constituyendo, por tanto, nuevas perspectivas con potencial suficiente para ser institucionalizadas.
Algunas consideraciones acerca de “Lejana”
Authors: Haghroosta Maryam
Published: January 2012

El tema del doble y la conexión del hombre con su otro yo, a través de las distancias espaciales, se ha revelado en muchos cuentos de Julio Cortázar. Este tema está relacionado con la ruptura de las individualidades y el desdoblamiento o duplicación de la identidad del hombre.
En “Lejana”, uno de los relatos de Bestiario (1951), aparece el tema del doble y la transmutación del personaje. En algunos cuentos de Julio Cortázar el doble está claramente separado del protagonista, pero en “Lejana”, aunque existe una distancia física muy grande entre ellos, el doble se manifiesta dentro y fuera de la protagonista. Al principio se manifiesta dentro de ella, pero finalmente aparece como una presencia real fuera de ella y se ubica en un espacio físico y materializado en Budapest.
En este trabajo analizaré uno de los cuentos cortazarianos, “Lejana”, donde el tema del doble se presenta muy nítidamente, en el cual el protagonista se encuentra súbitamente con otra identidad.
Is there a Future to the study of the Past?
Authors: Heyd Michael
Published: January 2012

Whereas historical scholarship is prospering and is constantly moving into new and uncharted territories, the teaching of history seems to be in a serious crisis in terms of student enrollment and its public prestige. This is true at least in some countries and is especially so with respect to the teaching of eras which precede the twentieth century. The present article seeks to explore some of the reasons for this crisis, and proposes a few arguments which can provide a raison d’être for the study of history at the beginning of the twenty-first century. While history is no longer regarded simply as magistra vitae, nor is it the foundation for competing ideologies as it used to be in the nineteenth century and the first half of the twentieth, there are very important cultural functions, beyond sheer intellectual curiosity, that the study of history fulfills, functions which can, and should, be emphasized also to the public at large. Chief among them is the need to come to terms with rapid change in society and human affairs, a need which is especially acute nowadays, and which only the discipline of history is equipped to deal with systematically.
Nanotechnology developments: opportunities for animal health and production
Authors: Manuja Anju , Kumar Balvinder , Singh Raj Kumar
Published: January 2012

Nanotechnology has opened up new vistas for applications in molecular biology, biotechnology and almost all the disciplines of veterinary and animal sciences. Excellence in animal health and production can be achieved by translation of this newer technology to create effective services and products for animals. The ability to manufacture and manipulate matter on the nanoscale has offered opportunities for application in diverse areas of animal sciences. Nanosensors, nanovaccines, adjuvants, gene delivery and smart drug delivery methods have the potential to revolutionize animal health and production. There can be numerous applications of the nanomaterials for disease diagnosis, treatment, drug delivery, animal nutrition, animal breeding, reproduction, tissue engineering and value addition to animal products. This paper reviews the recent developments in nanotechnology research and opportunities for application in animal sciences.
Repeatability and reproducibility of Orbscan II
Authors: Martín Raúl , Izquierdo Maria , De Juan Victoria , Rodriguez Guadalupe , Fernandez Itziar
Published: January 2012

This study aimed to determine the repeatability and reproducibility of Orbscan for anterior and posterior best fit sphere (BFS), simulated keratometry (Sim-K), and central (CCT) and mid-peripheral (PCT) corneal thickness measurements in healthy eyes. Orbscan was performed in 40 healthy eyes (20 subjects) three consecutive times on each cornea during three visits scheduled over one week. Repeatability and reproducibility coefficients [Bland and Altman’s coefficient (BAC), coefficient of variation (CV) and intraclass correlation (ICC)] were calculated for Orbscan anterior and posterior BFS, Sim-K and corneal pachymetry (central, superior, inferior, nasal and temporal locations). Repeatability was calculated using three consecutive measurements during each visit, while reproducibility was calculated using the average of the measurements obtained at each visit. High repeatability was found for all Orbscan measurements (r2<0.01; P>0.05, two-way ANOVA) with BAC and CV <1% (except in PCT coefficients; from 0.97% to 1.67%) and ICC close to 0.98- 0.99 for all visits. High reproducibility was also found for all Orbscan measurements (r2<0.01; P>0.05 two-way ANOVA). BAC values were less than 1% for both BFS and Sim- K, and between 1.21 and 2.20% for corneal pachymetry. CV values were less than 1% (except in superior, nasal and temporal PCT, where they ranged from 1.06 to 1.30%). ICC was close to 0.98-0.99 for all measurements. The BAC of reproducibility was higher than the CV of reproducibility. PCT showed less repeatability and reproducibility than CCT. The Orbscan provides non-invasive, repeatable and reproducible measurements of anterior and posterior BFS, simulated keratometry. and central and mid-peripheral pachymetry in healthy eyes.
A 35 mm Microfilm Compilation of Collected Analog Geophysical Data For AGC Cruise No. 84021, Continental Margin, Southwest Grand Banks
Authors: Sherin A G , Hardy I A , Merchant S , Beaver D E , Holt D , Cash M
Published: January 2012

The Atlantic Geoscience Centre (AGC) at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography (BIO) has investigated several methods of releasing to the public sector its massive collection (of over 150,000 lineal metres) of underway geophysical records collected since 1963. The
investigations and testing conducted by the Program Support Group, AGC in collaboration with the Public Archives of Canada indicated that the most cost-effective technique for distribution and for archiving such large volumes of irreplaceable data was to use microfilm. To maintain the continuous
nature of these records, which can be up to 30 metres in length, special equipment was required such as the Tameran 6000 continuous flow microfilm camera manufactured by Tameran Ltd. of Chagrin Falls, Ohio. All conversion of AGC's geophysical records using this camera was contracted to Manas Media
Ltd. of Ottawa, in consortium with Precision Microfilming Services of Halifax and Archimed Ltd. of Montreal. Operational filming began at the end of March 1987. A series of AGC cruise data will be released in 35 mm microfilm and distributed as Geological Survey of Canada Open File reports during
1988. Master microfilm is curated for each AGC cruise at the National Archives, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia with duplicates available for viewing at the Data Management Section (PSS), Atlantic Geoscience Centre and at all Geological Survey of Canada libraries in Ottawa, Calgary and
Vancouver.
Leveraging Psycholinguistic Resources and Emotional Sequence Models for Suicide Note Emotion Annotation
Authors: Yeh Eric , Jarrold William , Jordan Joshua
Published: January 2012

We describe the submission entered by SRI International and UC Davis for the I2B2 NLP Challenge Track 2. Our system is based on a machine learning approach and employs a combination of lexical, syntactic, and psycholinguistic features. In addition, we model the sequence and locations of occurrence of emotions found in the notes. We discuss the effect of these features on the emotion annotation task, as well as the nature of the notes themselves. We also explore the use of bootstrapping to help account for what appeared to be annotator fatigue in the data. We conclude a discussion of future avenues for improving the approach for this task, and also discuss how annotations at the word span level may be more appropriate for this task than annotations at the sentence level.
A Hybrid System for Emotion Extraction from Suicide Notes
Authors: Nikfarjam Azadeh , Emadzadeh Ehsan , Gonzalez Graciela
Published: January 2012

The reasons that drive someone to commit suicide are complex and their study has attracted the attention of scientists in different domains. Analyzing this phenomenon could significantly improve the preventive efforts. In this paper we present a method for sentiment analysis of suicide notes submitted to the i2b2/VA/Cincinnati Shared Task 2011. In this task the sentences of 900 suicide notes were labeled with the possible emotions that they reflect. In order to label the sentence with emotions, we propose a hybrid approach which utilizes both rule based and machine learning techniques. To solve the multi class problem a rule-based engine and an SVM model is used for each category. A set of syntactic and semantic features are selected for each sentence to build the rules and train the classifier. The rules are generated manually based on a set of lexical and emotional clues. We propose a new approach to extract the sentence's clauses and constitutive grammatical elements and to use them in syntactic and semantic feature generation. The method utilizes a novel method to measure the polarity of the sentence based on the extracted grammatical elements, reaching precision of 41.79 with recall of 55.03 for an f-measure of 47.50. The overall mean f-measure of all submissions was 48.75% with a standard deviation of 7%.
Characterization of the key pathways of dissimilatory nitrate reduction and their response to complex organic substrates in hyporheic sediments
Authors: Lansdown K. , Trimmer M. , Heppell C. M. , Sgouridis F. , Ullah S. , Heathwaite A. L. , Binley A. , Zhang H.
Published: January 2012

Laboratory incubations with river‐bed sediment collected from riffles and pools were used to quantify potential pathways of dissimilatory nitrate reduction in the hyporheic zone of a groundwater‐fed river. Sediments collected from between 5‐cm and 86‐cm depth in the bed of the River Leith, Cumbria, United Kingdom, were incubated with a suite of 15N‐labeled substrates (15NO−3, 15NH+4, and 14NO−3) to quantify nitrate reduction via denitrification, dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium (DNRA), and anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox). Denitrification was the dominant pathway of dissimilatory nitrate reduction in the hyporheic sediments, although recovery of 15N from the ammonium pool indicated that DNRA was also active. The potential for anammox was confirmed by the production of 29N2 during the 15NH+4 and 14NO−3 incubation, but it was much smaller than denitrification. Potential rates of denitrification were highest in shallow sediments and decayed exponentially with depth thereafter. There were clear differences in denitrification activity between riffle and pool sediments. After the production of 15N‐N2 had stabilized, we added a spike of bacteriological peptone to determine the effect of complex organic substrates on denitrification potential. The potential rate of denitrification increased uniformly at all sediment depths but the total amount of denitrification fueled by the organic substrates decreased markedly with depth, from 90% in the shallow sediments to 30% in the deepest sediments. In addition, a considerable fraction of the 15NO−3 could not be accounted for, which suggested that up to 87% of it had been assimilated in the deepest sediments.
Introducing the T‐Stick: A new device for high precision in situ sediment temperature profile measurements
Authors: Feseker Tomas , Wetzel Gero , Heesemann Bernd
Published: January 2012

In situ sediment temperature profile measurements provide valuable information on fluid seepage, hydrate stability, and ambient temperature of samples. We present a new instrument that can be used to obtain precisely positioned sediment temperature profile measurements during ROV dives. Consisting of a sensor rod equipped with eight temperature sensors and a standard data logger, the new T‐Stick can be operated by an ROV in a fully autonomous mode. The temperature range of the instrument is −5°C to 35°C, and it can withstand pressures of up to 600 bar. Virtual measurements generated by a numerical model showed that the T‐Stick provides highly accurate temperature profile measurements with a root mean square error of 0.0027 K for a wide range of thermal sediment properties. Modeled temperature gradients are representative of both normal deep sea settings and cold seep environments with elevated temperature gradients of up to three orders of magnitude above normal background values, which are the primary target areas for T‐Stick measurements. Deviations from the true in situ temperature profiles are caused by disturbance of the temperature field by the probe itself and may lead to underestimation of gradients and curvature in the profiles. A first field test of the T‐Stick at 1250 m water depth demonstrated the usefulness of the new instrument.
A comparative analysis of zooplankton field collection and sample enumeration methods
Authors: Mack Heidi R. , Conroy Joseph D. , Blocksom Karen A. , Stein Roy A. , Ludsin Stuart A.
Published: January 2012

Understanding differences in zooplankton abundance depends on comparing similar data. Scientists employ numerous methods to collect and count freshwater zooplankton, potentially leading to difficulties when comparing studies. As scant information concerning specific biases exists, we quantified how (1) net mesh size and (2) counting techniques influence zooplankton size and abundance estimates. We compared mesh sizes by collecting zooplankton with four vertically hauled nets differing only in mesh size. We examined mesh‐size effects on filtration efficiency across a suspended sediment gradient by comparing the known (quantified with a flowmeter) and assumed (from site depth) sample volumes. Finally, eight samples were counted with each of four methods to compare estimates of zooplankton abundance among techniques that differ in the minimum number of individuals counted. We found that only 64‐µm mesh nets effectively capture small‐bodied zooplankton (small cladocerans, copepod nauplii, and rotifers, mean size = 0.13−0.30 mm) whereas all nets effectively collected larger‐bodied zooplankton (mean size > 0.48 mm). All three > 100 µm‐mesh nets were > 90% efficient, regardless of suspended solids abundance. In contrast, the 64‐µm mesh net was at best 60% efficient; hence, actual volume sampled must be determined to avoid underestimation. We found counting‐method‐specific shortcomings, particularly for those in which few individuals were counted. We recommend, then, that a moderate number of individuals are counted for many finely resolved taxonomic categories or many individuals are counted for fewer, broader taxonomic categories. Consequently, to directly compare zooplankton densities between studies, scientists need a clear understanding of field collection and laboratory enumeration methods.
Quantitative assessment of invasive species in lacustrine environments through benthic imagery analysis
Authors: Forrest A.L. , Wittmann M.E. , Schmidt V. , Raineault N.A. , Hamilton A. , Pike W. , Schladow S.G. , Reuter J.E. , Laval B.E. , Trembanis A.C.
Published: January 2012

The establishment, spread, and impact of the invasive bivalve Corbicula fluminea (C. fluminea), in Lake Tahoe threatens native species distribution in the lake and, potentially, has long‐term implications for water clarity. In 2009, UBC‐Gavia, an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), was used as a platform to collect georeferenced imagery of the benthic regions of Lake Tahoe to determine the lake‐wide distribution of C. fluminea. Images were collected in water depths less than 10 m at an approximately constant height above the bottom of 2 m. Images were processed using a semi‐automated procedure to determine the ratio of the lakebed covered by exposed C. fluminea shells. A visual review was conducted on a subset of the images to determine presence of filamentous algae that has been observed in association with C. fluminea. Nearly 100 km of shoreline was covered over a 7‐d period, and C. fluminea presence was reconfirmed in 4 regions and additional 10 regions identified. In regions where the presence of C. fluminea was confirmed, C. fluminea depth distribution was validated by comparing image detection counts and results from a benthic sediment grab sample survey. Three regions around the lake were identified to have filamentous green algae or charophyte species. It was impossible to identify species of the known filamentous algal taxa (Cladophora glomerata, Spirogyra spp., and Zygnema spp.). The collected imagery provides a synoptic view on species distribution within the lake that can be used for efficient monitoring of invasive species in freshwater and saltwater bodies.
Deposition nucleation on mineral dust particles: a case against classical nucleation theory with the assumption of a single contact angle
Authors: Wheeler M. J. , Bertram A. K.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. Deposition nucleation on two mineral species, kaolinite and illite, was studied using a flow cell coupled to an optical microscope. The results show that the Sice conditions when ice first nucleated, defined as the onset Sice (Sice,onset), is a strong function of the surface area available for nucleation, varying from 100% to 125% at temperatures between 242 and 239 K. The surface area dependent data could not be described accurately using classical nucleation theory and the assumption of a single contact angle (defined here as the single-α model). These results suggest that caution should be applied when using contact angles determined from Sice,onset data and the single-α model. In contrast to the single-α model, the active site model, the deterministic model, and a model with a distribution of contact angles fit the data within experimental uncertainties. Parameters from the fits to the data are presented.
A method to resolve the phase state of aerosol particles
Authors: Saukko E. , Kuuluvainen H. , Virtanen A.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. The phase state of atmospheric aerosols has an impact on their chemical aging and their deliquescence and thus their ability to act as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN). The phase change of particles can be induced by the deliquescence or efflorescence of water or by chemical aging. Existing methods, such as tandem differential mobility analysis rely on the size change of particles related to the water uptake or release. To address the need to study the phase change induced by mass-preserving and nearly mass-preserving processes a new method has been developed. The method relies on the physical impaction of particles on a smooth substrate and subsequent counting of bounced particles by a condensation particle counter (CPC). The connection between the bounce probability and physical properties of particles is so far qualitative. To evaluate the performance of this method, the phase state of ammonium sulfate and levoglucosan, crystalline and amorphous solid, in the presence of water vapor was studied. The results show a marked difference in particle bouncing properties between substances – not only at the critical relative humidity level, but also on the slope of the bouncing probability with respect to humidity. This suggests that the method can be used to differentiate between amorphous and crystalline substances as well as to differentiate between liquid and solid phases.
Plant-driven variation in decomposition rates improves projections of global litter stock distribution
Authors: Brovkin V. , van Bodegom P. M. , Kleinen T. , Wirth C. , Cornwell W. K. , Cornelissen J. H. C. , Kattge J.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. Plant litter stocks are critical, regionally for their role in fueling fire regimes and controlling soil fertility, and globally through their feedback to atmospheric CO2 and climate. Here we employ two global databases linking plant functional types to decomposition rates of wood and leaf litter (Cornwell et al., 2008; Weedon et al., 2009) to improve future projections of climate and carbon cycle using an intermediate complexity Earth System model. Implementing separate wood and leaf litter decomposabilities and their temperature sensitivities for a range of plant functional types yielded a more realistic distribution of litter stocks in all present biomes with the exception of boreal forests and projects a strong increase in global litter stocks by 35 Gt C and a concomitant small decrease in atmospheric CO2 by 3 ppm by the end of this century. Despite a relatively strong increase in litter stocks, the modified parameterization results in less elevated wildfire emissions because of a litter redistribution towards more humid regions.
Scaled biotic disruption during early Eocene global warming events
Authors: Gibbs S. J. , Bown P. R. , Murphy B. H. , Sluijs A. , Edgar K. M. , Pälike H. , Bolton C. T. , Zachos J. C.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. Late Paleocene and early Eocene hyperthermals are transient global warming events associated with massive carbon injection or carbon redistribution in the ocean-atmosphere system, and are considered partial analogues for current anthropogenic climate change. Because the magnitude of carbon release varied between the events, they are natural experiments ideal for exploring the relationship between carbon cycle perturbations, climate change and biotic response. Here we quantify marine biotic variability through three million years of the early Eocene, including five hyperthermals, utilizing a method that allows us to integrate the records of different plankton groups through scenarios ranging from background to major extinction events. Our long-time-series calcareous nannoplankton record indicates a scaling of biotic disruption to climate change associated with the amount of carbon released during the various hyperthermals. Critically, only the three largest hyperthermals, the Paleocene Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM), Eocene Thermal Maximum 2 (ETM2) and the I1 event, show above-background variance, suggesting that the magnitude of carbon input and associated climate change needs to surpass a threshold value to cause significant biotic disruption.
Status of organochlorine pesticides in Ganga river basin: anthropogenic or glacial?
Authors: Mutiyar P. K. , Mittal A. K.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. This study reports the occurrences of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in Ganga river basin covering 3 states, i.e. Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar covering 72% of total river stretch consisting of 82 sampling points covered through 3 sampling campaigns. Samples were monitored for 16 major OCPs, including HCHs, Endosulfan group, Aldrin group, DDTs and Heptachlor group pesticides. The results showed the ng l−1 levels contamination of OCPs in all the stretches sampled during these campaigns. The results also revealed that different type of OCPs were dominating in different stretches in accordance to the land use practices and agricultural runoff generated from those stretches. HCHs were most frequently detected (detection rate = 75%) in mountainous stretch; Endosulfans were prominent in UP (detection rate = 75%) stretch while BR stretch Aldrin group pesticides were paramount (detection rate = 34%). Source apportionment of the OCP's revealed that in the upper reaches of the Ganges i.e. in the state of Uttarakhand, the glacial melt may be responsible for the presence of OCP's. In the lower reaches, intensive agriculture and industrial activities may be significantly contributing these pesticides. The sample from tributaries of Ganga river were found to contain higher number of pesticides as well as higher concentrations. The maximum total pesticide in an individual sample from these sampling campaigns was found in Son river sample (0.17 μg l−1, Location: Koilwar, Bhojpur, Bihar).
Training of health professionals in the tuberculosis care: challenges and contradictions of the practice
Authors: Nogueira Jordana De Almeida , Silva Cybelle Aves da , Trigueiro Débora Raquel Soares Guedes , Trigueiro Janaína Von Söhsten , Almeida Sandra Aparecida de , Sá Lenilde Duarte de , Ribeiro Luana Carla Santana
Published: January 2012

Objetivo: analisar a “formação profissional” das equipes de saúde da família para atenção a tuberculose, em município da região metropolitana da Paraíba. Métodos: pesquisa seccional, realizada em 2008, que envolveu 86 profissionais de saúde, após aprovação do Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da Universidade Federal da Paraíba- protocolo 886/07. Utilizou-se instrumento validado e adaptado para atenção à tuberculose no Brasil, com opção de respostas segundo escala intervalar (tipo Likert), com valores entre zero e cinco. Atribuiu-se aos valores próximos de 1 e 2 a classificação de formação profissional “não-satisfatória”, próximos de 3 e 4 “regular”, e próximos ou igual a 5 “satisfatória”. Resultados: apenas 43,0% dos profissionais mencionaram ter recebido treinamento para atuarem na atenção básica; 40,7% treinamento que aborde a diversidade cultural da clientela e 45,3% treinamento específico para desenvolverem ações de controle da tuberculose. O valor mediano encontrado (igual a 4) mostra que a formação das equipes para atuar na atenção na atenção básica e no controle da tuberculose é regular. Conclusão: a ampliação da capacidade resolutiva dos serviços de atenção básica requer esforços de diferentes atores do sistema e mecanismos gerenciais que viabilizem a instrumentalização das equipes para o manejo das ações de controle da tuberculose.
Cutaneous Meningioma
Authors: Miedema Jayson R. , Zedek Daniel
Published: January 2012

Cutaneous meningioma is a rare tumor that most commonly occurs on the scalp and occurs in both congenital and acquired forms. It invokes a wide clinical differential diagnosis, but diagnosis is based on characteristic histologic and cytologic findings. Congenital lesions can often present years after birth and even in adult patients. Acquired lesions occur in adulthood. We review histologic, cytologic, and electron microscopic findings and explore how these are used to separate this entity from other entities in the differential diagnosis. While ultrastructural and cytologic findings are similar to those of more common intracranial meningiomas, these tumors exhibit a range of histologic differences. A lack of awareness of this entity precludes correct diagnosis.
Intraocular Medulloepithelioma
Authors: Saunders Timothy , Margo Curtis E.
Published: January 2012

Intraocular medulloepithelioma is a congenital tumor of the ciliary epithelium that typically presents during the first decade of life. The histologic diagnosis is based on characteristic ribbons of pseudostratified neuroepithelium admixed with loose mesenchymal tissue rich in hyaluronic acid, vaguely resembling developing retina and vitreous. More than a third of medulloepitheliomas contain heteroplastic tissue, which in some cases makes up most of the tumor. Malignant medulloepitheliomas consist of a proliferation of neuroblasts, which in areas can be indistinguishable from retinoblastoma. Unlike its highly malignant counterpart in the central nervous system, intraocular medulloepithelioma has a good prognosis as long as tumor has not spread beyond the eye. Definitive diagnosis and eye-conserving therapy is possible with fine-needle aspiration biopsy. The histologic differential diagnosis of medulloepithelioma is broad, ranging from retinoblastoma and sarcoma to ciliary epithelial adenoma and adenocarcinoma.
Performance Evaluation of the Sysmex XE-5000 Hematology Analyzer for White Blood Cell Analysis in Cerebrospinal Fluid
Authors: Perné Andrea , Hainfellner Johannes A. , Womastek Irene , Haushofer Alexander , Szekeres Thomas , Schwarzinger Ilse
Published: January 2012

Context.—The newest generation hematology analyzer, Sysmex XE-5000 (Sysmex Corporation, Kobe, Japan) is equipped with an improved body fluid analysis mode.

Objective.—To evaluate the applicability of the XE-5000 analyzer to white blood cell (WBC) analysis in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Design.—A total of 425 routinely collected, consecutive CSF samples were included in the study. For a comparison of total WBC counts, the results of routine chamber counts were grouped into categories of 0 to 5 (n  =  330), >5 to 10 (n  =  36), >10 to 50 (n  =  39), >50 to 200 (n  =  15), and >200 (n  =  5) WBC/µL. Microscopic differential counts were performed using cytospins from 276 samples. Results were grouped according to the percent content of polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells, 0% to 25% (n  =  263), >25% to 50% (n  =  7), >50% to 75% (n  =  3), and >75% to 100% (n  =  3) of WBC. Corresponding results of XE-5000 analysis were matched to these particular count categories.

Results.—For total WBC counts, the proportions of samples correctly classified by the XE-5000 from the percentage groups described above were 88%, 47%, 72%, 93%, and 100%, respectively. After the two lowest count categories were combined into one range of 0 to 10 WBC/µL, matches increased to 95%. For PMN counts in the 0% to 25% group, 37% of samples were misclassified by the XE-5000. Conversely, for samples with microscopic PMN counts of more than 25%, there was a trend toward underestimation by the XE-5000. Mismatches were most pronounced in samples with fewer than 10 WBC/µL.

Conclusions.—The Sysmex XE-5000 hematology analyzer yields valid total CSF cell counts and may be considered an acceptable alternative to the traditional chamber method, even for samples with low WBC counts. However, it cannot be recommended as a suitable alternative for manual differential cytologic workup.
Comparative Evaluation of High-Throughput Small-Core (0.6-mm) and Large-Core (2-mm) Thyroid Tissue Microarray: Is Larger Better?
Authors: Jones Susie , Prasad Manju L.
Published: January 2012

Context.—Tissue microarrays (TMAs) are useful in gene/protein expression profiling of large number of tumors. Several studies have validated that a 0.6-mm core of a large tumor would give results similar to results of the whole section. However, cores from colloid-filled thyroid follicles, for example in breast carcinoma, may contain fewer cells compared to solid tumors.

Objective.—The aim of this study is to validate thyroid TMAs choosing 2 core diameters, 0.6 and 2 mm, and to study the effect of core size and grid density on concordance with whole sections.

Design.—0.6-mm tissue cores were arrayed on a high-density TMA (406 cores). Two low-density TMAs (35 cores each) composed of 2-mm cores were also constructed. Immunohistochemistry was performed using primary antibodies to cytokeratin 19, HBME1, and CITED1 that have been found to be useful in the diagnosis of thyroid carcinoma. The results were compared with whole sections.

Results.—The concordance between high-density TMAs and whole sections was 61 of 77 (79%) for cytokeratin 19; 76 of 80 (95%) for HBME 1; and 67 of 75 (89%) for CITED1. The concordance between the low-density TMAs and whole sections was cytokeratin 19, 41 of 51 (80%) for cytokeratin 19; HBME1, 52 of 56 (92.8%) for HBME1 and 58 of 59 (98%) for CITED1. The most frequent discordance was negative core but positive focal heterogeneous protein expression in whole sections. On whole sections, the sensitivity of tests increased but the specificity decreased compared to TMAs; however, the accuracy remained similar (77%–83%).

Conclusion.—Focal and heterogeneous protein expression was the most frequent reason for false negative results in TMAs. Tissue microarray remains an accurate method of screening for protein expression in a large number of thyroid tissues irrespective of core diameters or grid densities.
The Positive Impact of Simultaneous Implementation of the BD FocalPoint GS Imaging System and Lean Principles on the Operation of Gynecologic Cytology
Authors: Wong Rebecca , Levi Angelique W. , Harigopal Malini , Schofield Kevin , Chhieng David C.
Published: January 2012

Context.—Our cytology laboratory, like many others, is under pressure to improve quality and provide test results faster while decreasing costs. We sought to address these issues by introducing new technology and lean principles.

Objective.—To determine the combined impact of the FocalPoint Guided Screener (GS) Imaging System (BD Diagnostics–TriPath, Burlington, North Carolina) and lean manufacturing principles on the turnaround time (TAT) and productivity of the gynecologic cytology operation.

Design.—We established a baseline measure of the TAT for Papanicolaou tests. We then compared that to the performance after implementing the FocalPoint GS Imaging System and lean principles. The latter included value-stream mapping, workflow modification, and a first in–first out policy.

Results.—The mean (SD) TAT for Papanicolaou tests before and after the implementation of FocalPoint GS Imaging System and lean principles was 4.38 (1.28) days and 3.20 (1.32) days, respectively. This represented a 27% improvement in the average TAT, which was statistically significant (P < .001). In addition, the productivity of staff improved 17%, as evidenced by the increase in slides screened from 8.85/h to 10.38/h. The false-negative fraction decreased from 1.4% to 0.9%, representing a 36% improvement.

Conclusions.—In our laboratory, the implementation of FocalPoint GS Imaging System in conjunction with lean principles resulted in a significant decrease in the average TAT for Papanicolaou tests and a substantial increase in the productivity of cytotechnologists while maintaining the diagnostic quality of gynecologic cytology.
Progressive Granulomatous Pneumonitis in Response to Cosmetic Subcutaneous Silicone Injections in a Patient With HIV-1 Infection: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Hariri Lida P. , Gaissert Henning A. , Brown Robert , Ciaranello Andrea , Greene Reginald E. , Selig Martin K. , Kradin Richard L.
Published: January 2012

Silicone, commonly used in cosmetic procedures owing to its presumed inertness, can yield serious sequelae including acute embolization and pneumonitis. Chronic pulmonary sequelae in response to silicone injection have not been previously described. We report a case of chronic progressive granulomatous pneumonitis in response to subcutaneous silicone injections in a transgender male-to-female patient infected with human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1). After receiving silicone injections to the buttock, the patient developed rapid onset dyspnea, pleuritic chest pain, fever, and chills. Chest computed tomography revealed diffuse peripheral interstitial opacities. She responded symptomatically to prednisone with subsequent intermittent symptomatic flares. Four years later, she developed marked dyspnea and cough. Chest computed tomography showed progressive diffuse ground-glass and nodular opacities. Lung biopsies demonstrated numerous spheroid silicone particles within the lung interstitium and small pulmonary vessels, surrounded by foreign body giant cells and nonnecrotizing granulomatous inflammation. We speculate that HIV-1–infected patients may be at risk for chronic, progressive granulomatous pneumonitis due to silicone injection years after their procedure owing to shifting levels of cell-mediated immunity.
Atypical Apocrine Adenosis of the Breast: Long-term Follow-up in 37 Patients
Authors: Fuehrer Neil , Hartmann Lynn , Degnim Amy , Allers Teresa , Vierkant Robert , Frost Marlene , Visscher Daniel
Published: January 2012

Context.—Atypical apocrine adenosis is a rare breast lesion in which the cellular population demonstrates cytologic alterations that may be confused with malignancy. The clinical significance and management of atypical apocrine adenosis are unclear because of the lack of long-term follow-up studies.

Objective.—To determine the breast cancer risk in a retrospective series of patients with atypical apocrine adenosis diagnosed in otherwise benign, breast excisional biopsies.

Design.—We identified 37 atypical apocrine adenosis cases in the Mayo Benign Breast Disease Cohort (9340 women) between 1967 and 1991 with a blinded pathology rereview. Breast cancer diagnoses subsequent to initial atypical apocrine adenosis biopsy were identified (average follow-up, 14 years).

Results.—The mean age at diagnosis of atypical apocrine adenosis in the group was 59 years. Breast carcinoma subsequently developed in 3 women (8%) with atypical apocrine adenosis, diagnosed after follow-up intervals of 4, 12, and 18 years. The tumor from 1 of the 3 cases (33%) was ductal carcinoma in situ, contralateral to the original biopsy, and the other 2 cases (66%) were invasive carcinoma. Ages at the time of diagnosis of atypical apocrine adenosis were 55, 47, and 63 years for those that developed in situ or invasive carcinoma.

Conclusions.—(1) Atypical apocrine adenosis was a rare lesion during the accrual era of our cohort (<1% of cases); (2) women found to have atypical apocrine adenosis were, on average, older than were other patients with benign breast disease, however, there does not seem to be an association with age and risk for developing carcinoma in patients diagnosed with atypical apocrine adenosis, as previously suggested; and (3) atypical apocrine adenosis does not appear to be an aggressive lesion and should not be regarded as a direct histologic precursor to breast carcinoma.
Delving Deeper: Triangle Construction in Taxicab Geometry
Authors: Dreiling Keith M.
Published: January 2012

This article compares constructions in Euclidean geometry to equivalent results in Taxicab geometry.
The Back Page: My Favorite Lesson – The Birthday Problem, Empirically
Authors: Jones Dustin L.
Published: January 2012

The author uses real-world data to bring life to the birthday problem.