bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Building Blocks of Supply Chain Management
Authors: Drake Matthew J. , Mawhinney John R.
Published: June 2010

Supply chain management is one of the most complex business disciplines, comprising activities and interactions within and between many of the traditional functional areas of a firm and their channel partners. No longer can a company place its entire focus on its own operations because long-term success is becoming increasingly dependent on actions and decisions of upstream and downstream firms in the supply chain. Organizations that effectively collaborate with their supply chain partners position themselves for success in 21st-century markets. In order to prepare our students to make decisions in this complex environment, educators in operations research and management science must introduce students to the important interactions which are essential to effective supply chain management.

We have developed a classroom supply chain simulation incorporating Lego™ bricks to highlight the flow of materials, products, and information through the channel. Students assume the responsibilities of various supply chain functions and must work together to provide finished products according to a production schedule and a rush customer order. The exercise was designed for an undergraduate introductory course in supply chain management, transportation and logistics, or management science in a business or industrial engineering school. It reinforces lectures and discussions about the different functional areas of the supply chain and serves to energize students about the remainder of their curriculum in the field. The follow-up assignments included with the simulation allow students to execute the major steps of the production planning process within the familiar context of the company used in the simulation exercise.
Deming's Quality Experiments Revisited
Authors: Olsen Tava
Published: June 2010

This paper revisits two classic experiments used by W. Edwards Deming to teach concepts of quality management. The first, the red bead experiment, demonstrates how managing based on underlying system randomness can be highly problematic. The second, the funnel experiment, demonstrates how adjusting a system based on underlying random variations can significantly degrade system performance. This paper describes adjustments to these experiments that retain their key learning points while making them more suitable for in-class demonstrations and increase the “fun” component of the experiments.
The Stock Portfolio Game
Authors: Villalobos J. Rene
Published: June 2010

One of the objectives of the stock portfolio game is to introduce undergraduate engineering students to the application of optimization techniques for stock portfolio selection. Ideally students playing the game would have basic background in linear algebra, calculus, and statistics. The general idea of the game is to present teams of students with real historical performance data for stocks with different levels of returns and variability so that they make decisions concerning the allocation of limited funds among these stocks. The game is played in four rounds within an hour-long session. The teams, comprised of no more than four students, are provided with an initial virtual investment fund, which they have to allocate or reallocate based on the information presented. The team with the most money in its investment account at the end of the game is declared the winner. Once the results of the game are known, one or more teams are asked to share their investment strategy with the rest of the group. This discussion forms the starting point for the last part of the session when the lecturer puts the investment game in the perspective of an optimization problem. At the end of the session basic principles of Markowitz's portfolio theory are presented and applied to the data given to the students.
Technology Adoption in the Presence of Network Externalities: A Web-Based Classroom Game
Authors: Wolf James R. , Portegys Thomas E.
Published: June 2010

This paper describes a customizable classroom game used to demonstrate the effects of network externalities on the adoption of new technologies. The game is a web-based adaptation of Ruebeck et al.'s [Ruebeck, C. S., N. Stafford, W. Tynan, G. Alpert, Ball, B. Butkevich. 2003. Network externalities and standardization: A classroom demonstration. Southern Econom. J. 69 1000–1008] network externalities game. The web-based game is freely available and can be played in a networked lab setting or via the Internet. In this game, players choose one of a number of competing technologies whose utility depends on the number of others choosing the same technology. In subsequent variations, we introduce sequential choice, imperfect information, heterogeneity, “lock-in,” and switching costs.
Barcelona: centre and periphery
Authors: Calvo Lluís
Published: June 2010

Barcelona needs to exercise its function as a capital city with an unshakeable faith in Catalan culture by establishing communication and exchange networks with its Catalan hinterland. Although the Catalan creative sector is confident and convinced of its potential, it needs Barcelona
to believe in it, and it needs to shake off the fetters, ambiguities and diffident attitudes of the past.
Pseudo-active sites of protease domains: HGF/Met and Sonic hedgehog signaling in cancer
Authors: Maun Henry R. , Kirchhofer Daniel , Lazarus Robert A.
Published: June 2010

Proteases represent a large class of enzymes with crucial biological functions. Although targeting various relevant proteases for therapeutic intervention has been widely investigated, structurally related proteins lacking proteolytic activity (pseudo-proteases) have received relatively little attention. Two distinct clinically relevant cancer pathways that contain signaling proteins with pseudo-protease domains include the Met and Hedgehog (Hh) pathways. The receptor tyrosine kinase Met pathway is driven by hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), a plasminogen-related ligand that binds Met and activates intracellular pathways resulting in cell proliferation, angiogenesis, motility and survival. HGF is a disulfide-linked α/β-heterodimer having a trypsin serine protease-like β-chain. The Hh pathway is driven by Sonic hedgehog (Shh), which has a Zn2+metalloprotease fold and binds Patched1 (Ptc1), which de-represses Smoothened and ultimately activates Gli-dependent transcription. Although HGF and Shh differ in structure and function, the pseudo-catalytic sites of both HGF and Shh are crucial for signal transduction. For HGF, this region binds the Met β-propeller domain, which leads to Met dimerization and signaling. For Hh, this region binds to the antagonist receptor Hedgehog-interacting protein (Hhip) and most probably to Ptc1 as well. Thus, for both HGF and Hh pathways, targeting ligand pseudo-active sites represents a new strategy for regulation.
Isolation of genes involved in pancreas regeneration by subtractive hybridization
Authors: Choi Jong-Ho , Lee Min-Young , Kim Yoolee , Shim Jeong-Yun , Han Sang-Moon , Lee Kyung-Ah , Choi Young-Kil , Jeon Hae-Myung , Baek Kwang-Hyun
Published: June 2010

The deterioration of β cells in the pancreas is a crucial factor in the progression of diabetes mellitus; therefore, the recovery of β cells is of vital importance for effective diabetic therapeutic strategies. Partially pancreatectomized rats have been used for the investigation of pancreatic regeneration. Because it was determined that tissue extract from the partially-dissected pancreas induces pancreatic differentiation in embryonic stem cells, paracrine factors were thought to be involved in the regeneration. In this study, we screened for genes that had higher mRNA levels 2 days after 60%-pancreatectomy. The genes were isolated using subtractive hybridization and DNA sequencing. Twelve genes (adipsin,Aplp2,Clu,Col1a2,Glul,Krt8,Lgmn, LOC299907, LOC502894,Pla2g1b,Reg3αandXbp1) were identified, and RT-PCR and real-time PCR analyses were performed to validate their expression levels. Among the genes identified, three genes (Glul,LgmnandReg3a) were selected for further analyses. Assays revealed thatGlulandReg3αenhance cell growth.Glul,LgmnandReg3αchange the expression level of islet marker genes, whereNEUROD,NKX2.2,PAX4andPAX6are up-regulated andsomatostatinis down-regulated. Thus, we believe thatGlul,LgmnandReg3acan serve as novel targets in diabetes mellitus genetic therapy.
Molecular mechanisms of signal transduction via adiponectin and adiponectin receptors
Authors: Heiker John T. , Kosel David , Beck-Sickinger Annette G.
Published: June 2010

The adipocytokine adiponectin and its receptor (AdipoR) comprise a new receptor-ligand system that is involved in a variety of clinically important morbidities such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Adiponectin exerts a multitude of beneficial and tissue specific effects depending on its unique, tightly regulated multimerization behavior. Post-translational modifications are essential for the multimer assembly before secretion and protein stability in the circulation. AdipoR1 and 2 have been discovered as a new class of heptahelix receptors structurally and functionally distinct from G-protein-coupled receptors. Both AdipoRs bind adiponectin and the downstream signaling of both AdipoRs is mediated mainly by phosphorylation of AMPK and activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α, which influence the lipid and glucose metabolism of skeletal muscle and liver cells as well as inflammatory processes and vascular endothelial integrity. Several intracellular binding partners of the AdipoR N-terminus such as APPL1, CK2β and ERp46 have been identified and shown to control receptor signaling. Adiponectin has also been reported to modulate the dimerization and internalization of AdipoRs, which provides new insights into the molecular characteristics of this unusual receptor. The understanding of the functional mechanisms of adiponectin signal transduction is critical to benefit from the full therapeutic potential of the adiponectin-AdipoR system.
Nuclear cysteine cathepsin variants in thyroid carcinoma cells
Authors: Tedelind Sofia , Poliakova Kseniia , Valeta Amanda , Hunegnaw Ruth , Yemanaberhan Eyoel Lemma , Heldin Nils-Erik , Kurebayashi Junichi , Weber Ekkehard , Kopitar-Jerala Nataša , Turk Boris , Bogyo Matthew , Brix Klaudia
Published: June 2010

The cysteine peptidase cathepsin B is important in thyroid physiology by being involved in thyroid prohormone processing initiated in the follicular lumen and completed in endo-lysosomal compartments. However, cathepsin B has also been localized to the extrafollicular space and is therefore suggested to promote invasiveness and metastasis in thyroid carcinomas through, e.g., ECM degradation. In this study, immunofluorescence and biochemical data from subcellular fractionation revealed that cathepsin B, in its single- and two-chain forms, is localized to endo-lysosomes in the papillary thyroid carcinoma cell line KTC-1 and in the anaplastic thyroid carcinoma cell lines HTh7 and HTh74. This distribution is not affected by thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) incubation of HTh74, the only cell line that expresses a functional TSH-receptor. Immunofluorescence data disclosed an additional nuclear localization of cathepsin B immunoreactivity. This was supported by biochemical data showing a proteolytically active variant slightly smaller than the cathepsin B proform in nuclear fractions. We also demonstrate that immunoreactions specific for cathepsin V, but not cathepsin L, are localized to the nucleus in HTh74 in peri-nucleolar patterns. As deduced from co-localization studies andin vitrodegradation assays, we suggest that nuclear variants of cathepsins are involved in the development of thyroid malignancies through modification of DNA-associated proteins.
Pharmacogenetic features of cathepsin B inhibitors that improve memory deficit and reduce β-amyloid related to Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Hook Vivian , Hook Gregory , Kindy Mark
Published: June 2010

Beta-amyloid (Aβ) in the brain is a major factor involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD) that results in severe memory deficit. Our recent studies demonstrate pharmacogenetic differences in the effects of inhibitors of cathepsin B to improve memory and reduce Aβ in different mouse models of AD. The inhibitors improve memory and reduce brain Aβ in mice expressing the wild-type (WT) β-secretase site of human APP, expressed in most AD patients. However, these inhibitors have no effect in mice expressing the rare Swedish (Swe) mutant amyloid precursor protein (APP). Knockout of the cathepsin B decreased brain Aβ in mice expressing WT APP, validating cathepsin B as the target. The specificity of cathepsin B to cleave the WT β-secretase site, but not the Swe mutant site, of APP for Aβ production explains the distinct inhibitor responses in the different AD mouse models. In contrast to cathepsin B, the BACE1 β-secretase prefers to cleave the Swe mutant site. Discussion of BACE1 data in the field indicate that they do not preclude cathepsin B as also being a β-secretase. Cathepsin B and BACE1 could participate jointly as β-secretases. Significantly, the majority of AD patients express WT APP and, therefore, inhibitors of cathepsin B represent candidate drugs for AD.
Hydrophilic residues surrounding the S1 and S2 pockets contribute to dimerisation and catalysis in human dipeptidyl peptidase 8 (DP8)
Authors: Pitman Melissa R. , Menz R. Ian , Abbott Catherine A.
Published: June 2010

Dipeptidyl peptidase (DP) 8 belongs to the dipeptidyl peptidase IV gene family. DP8 has been implicated in immune function and asthma, although its biological function is yet unknown. Structures of the homologs, fibroblast activation protein (FAP) and DPIV, are known but the DP8 structure is yet to be resolved. To help characterise the DP8 substrate pocket, mutants of residues lining the pocket were produced at DP8D772, DP8Y315, DP8H434 and DP8D435 and assessed by substrate kinetics and size-exclusion chromatography. Mutations of DP8D772A/E/S/V affected catalysis but did not confer endopeptidase activity. Mutations of DP8H434F, DP8D435F and DP8Y315F reduced catalytic activity. Furthermore, mutations to DP8D772A/E/S/V, DP8H434F, DP8D435F and DP8Y315F affected dimer stabilisation. Homology modelling of DP8 using DPIV and FAP crystal structures suggested that DP8D772, DP8H434 and DP8D435 were located at the edge of the S2 catalytic pocket, contributing to the junction between the alpha-beta hydrolase and beta-propeller domains. This study provides insights into how the DP8 substrate pocket and dimer interface differ from DPIV and FAP which could be utilised for designing more selective DP8 inhibitors.
Adrenaline: communication by electron emission. Effect of concentration and temperature. Product analysis
Authors: Getoff Nikola , Huber Claudia , Hartmann Johannes , Huber Johannes C. , Quint Ruth Maria
Published: June 2010

Background: Based on the recent findings about the ability of sexual hormones to emit electrons (eaq
–) and to act as electron mediator, it was of interest to investigate adrenaline as an important neurotransmitter.

Materials and methods: Highest purity adrenaline (ADR) and chemicals were used for preparation of aqueous solutions (pH ∼7.4). The excitation of ADR in singlet state was achieved by irradiation of airfree aqueous solution with monochromatic UV light at λ=254 nm. The emitted “solvated electrons” (eaq
–) were scavenged by chloroethanol, where the quantum yield of Cl– ions, Q(Cl–)=Q(eaq
–). ADR degradation and formation of photolytic products were followed by HPLC analysis.

Results and conclusion: It was found that Q(eaq
–) values decrease with increasing ADR concentration: for 2.5×10–5 mol/L ADR was determined as Q(eaq
–)=6×10–3, whereas for 1×10–3 mol/L ADR was found to be 0.9×10–3. This is explained by formation of associates in ground state, which consume a part of emitted eaq
–. As a main photolytic product aminochrome was determined.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia and the function of adrenal medulla
Authors: Lisá Lidka , Bílek Radovan , Vrzalová Zuzana
Published: June 2010

Objective: The most common form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is the deficiency of steroid 21-hydroxylase which results from deletion or mutation of the cytochrome P450 21-hydroxylase gene. The low level of glucocorticoids and in some cases low level of mineralocorticoids has an important pathophysiological influence on the axis of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal cortex.

Design: Using determination of plasmatic metanephrine, normetanephrine and chromogranin A, we wanted to investigate the structure and function of adrenal medulla in patients with CAH, because adrenocortical and adrenomedullary systems are intimately linked anatomically and functionally.

Methods: Levels of plasmatic metanephrine, normetanephrine and chromogranin A were measured in our group of 37 patients (age range: 5–45 years, 18 females and 19 males) with the classic salt-wasting form of CAH.

Results: The reference range was 73% for metanephrine (<10 ng/L, 83.3% females, 63.2% males) and 59.5% for metanephrine (<15 ng/L, 72.2% females, 47.4% males). The concentration of plasmatic nephrines in the first quartile reference range was achieved in the case of metanephrine in all patients (<23 ng/L), and in the case of normetanephrine in 86.5% of patients (<42.5 ng/L). The level in chromogranin A was normal in all patients. No significant differences were found in plasmatic concentrations of nephrines and chromogranin A between males and females with CAH, nor was there a significant correlation with genetic results (severe or moderate salt-wasting form of CAH).

Conclusion: Impaired secretion of glucocorticoids in patients with CAH leads to the structural changes in adrenal medulla which are expressed by low production of metanephrine, and to a lesser extent, normetanephrine.
Modified Direct Shear Apparatus for Unsaturated Sands at Low Suction and Stress
Authors: Likos William J. , Wayllace Alexandra , Godt Jonathan , Lu Ning
Published: June 2010

Modifications to a conventional laboratory testing system are described for direct shear testing of unsaturated soils at relatively low matric suction and net normal stress. Matric suction ranging from zero (saturated) to about 10 kPa is controlled using a hanging column assembly (ASTM D6836). Net normal stress ranging from about 0.3 to 10 kPa is controlled by directly applying dead loads to the specimen via a series of aluminum top caps machined to varying thicknesses. Precise control of suction and normal stress within these ranges makes the apparatus ideal for examining the shear strength behavior of unsaturated sands, which are characterized by relatively low air-entry pressures and for which the influences of matric suction on mechanical response can be subtle. Soil-water characteristic curves are concurrently obtained during the shear testing program by measuring transient and equilibrium pore water drainage under the imposed suction changes. Testing procedures and recommended protocols are described. Results from a series of tests using saturated and unsaturated specimens of poorly graded fine sand are presented to demonstrate application and performance of the system. Relationships between shear strength and matric suction are non-linear and exhibit peak shear strength at matric suction within the range of the air-entry suction. High friction angles measured for the portions of the failure envelope at low matric suction and normal stress may indicate the effects of dilation on the strength development.
Experimental Investigations of Preheated Jatropha Oil Fuelled Direct Injection Compression Ignition Engine—Part 1: Performance, Emission, and Combustion Characteristics
Authors: Agarwal Avinash Kumar , Dhar Atul
Published: June 2010

Vegetable oils demonstrate several problems as fuel for compression ignition engines due to their high viscosity and low volatility characteristics. Viscosity can be brought down by heating or blending them with mineral diesel. In the first part of the present investigations, a novel method of preheating straight vegetable oils with the waste heat of the engine exhaust is presented. Experimental investigations were carried out for combustion, performance, and emission properties of preheated and unhealed jatropha oil in a direct injection engine at different loads at constant engine speed (1500 r/min). Brake specific fuel consumption and exhaust gas temperatures for preheated jatropha oil were found to be higher compared to mineral diesel. Thermal efficiency was lower for preheated jatropha oil compared to mineral diesel. The vegetable oil preheating reduced the CO2, CO, and HC emissions but increased the NOx emissions. Analysis of cylinder pressure rise, heat release rate, and cumulative heat release was carried out. Preheated jatropha oil shows lower combustion delay but slower heat release rate compared to mineral diesel. Combustion duration for both preheated and unheated jatropha oils is higher than mineral diesel, but heating was found to increase the combustion duration of jatropha oil. Maximum in-cylinder pressure was observed for mineral diesel for higher load conditions, but at lower load, relatively higher peak cylinder pressure was obtained with preheated jatropha oil. Detailed combustion analysis suggests that preheated jatropha oil gives identical combustion as that of mineral diesel. Hence, waste heat of exhaust gas can be effectively utilized to preheat the jatropha oil for improving its combustion properties as a diesel engine fuel.
Fatigue Crack Propagation Behavior of an Inertia Friction Welded α/β Titanium Alloy
Authors: Pardhi Y. , Dungey C. , Baxter G. , Bowen P. , Halford T. P.
Published: June 2010

The inertia friction welding process is being extensively investigated for the joining of high strength titanium alloys for aerospace applications. Although it offers solid state joining, the thermal cycle and deformation involved results in microstructural inhomogeneity across the weld interface. In this paper, the fatigue crack propagation behavior in an inertia welded microstructure in a high strength, high temperature α/β titanium alloy is considered. The fatigue crack propagation behavior in corner notched weld specimens at varying stress ratios is studied at room and elevated temperatures and compared with that of the parent material. Fatigue crack growth rates at lower stress intensity ranges are comparable with those in the parent material. However, in weld specimens tested at room temperature, unstable crack growth occurs at lower stress intensity range values compared to that at high temperature. Fracture surface observations show that this difference is related to a change in fracture mode from transgranular to intergranular/mixed mode during room temperature tests. This change in fatigue crack growth mechanism is deduced to be due to low ductility intergranular failure of grain boundary α in the refined transformed beta microstructure across the weld interface.
La παλαιὰ συμμαχία fra Atene e Leontini nel quadro della politica occidentale ateniese
Authors: Maddoli Gianfranco
Published: June 2010

Riassunto

Tucidide (3,86), in riferimento alla prima spedizione ateniese in Sicilia (427 a. C.), menziona una “antica alleanza” fra Atene e Leontini la cui datazione è stata ed è oggetto di un lungo dibattito e di diverse ipotesi. Il testo di questa alleanza – insieme a quello di un′alleanza fra Atene e Reggio – è conservato in forma epigrafica (rispettivamente IG I3 54 = ML 64 e IG I3 54 = ML 63) ed è databile al 433/2, ma si tratta di un “rinnovo” delle alleanze. L′autore propone di collegare la stipula originaria con la ribellione dei Siculi di Ducezio (fine anni ′50) e con la spedizione di Diotimos in Occidente che, in accordo con una recente ricerca, deve essere datata intorno al 452 a. C. L′intervento ateniese è il primo segnale di quella politica di presenza nell′area occidentale che fu additata da Temistocle, perseguita da Cimone e consolidata da Pericle con la fondazione di Turii.
Ricerche sulle tradizioni di fondazione di Magnesia al Meandro. Un aggiornamento
Authors: Biagetti Claudio
Published: June 2010

Riassunto

Il presente lavoro propone un quadro aggiornato sulle tradizioni di fondazione di Magnesia al Meandro a partire dal racconto epigrafico di IMagn. 17, che conserva una ktisis anonima della città. Dall′analisi testuale dell′iscrizione e dal confronto di questa con la documentazione letteraria su Magnesia è possibile individuare tre distinti filoni di tradizione: quello magnesio-tessalo, quello cretese e quello licio. Ulteriori leggende emergono dall′esame delle fonti letterarie ed epigrafiche relative a Magnesia: si tratta delle tradizioni delfiche, di quelle spartane e di quelle indigene. Una piena comprensione della genesi e dello sviluppo delle tradizioni magnesie passa però attraverso l′inquadramento delle stesse nel panorama più ampio delle colonie greche d′Asia Minore.
Rom und Jerusalem – Kaiserherrschaft und herodische Dynastie. Beobachtungen und Fragen zur neueren Forschung
Authors: Bernett Monika
Published: June 2010

Der Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über die neuere Forschung zur jüdischen Geschichte zur Zeit der herodischen Dynastie bis Anfang des 2. Jh. n. Chr. Er setzt sich dabei intensiver mit Art und Bedeutung der Beziehungen zwischen lokalen Herrschern, römischen Autoritäten und dem Kaiserhaus auseinander. Zur Debatte steht insbesondere die Frage, inwiefern die herodischen Dynasten politische Vermittlungsfunktionen zwischen Rom und den Juden in Judäa sowie im Rest des Römischen Reichs wahrnahmen und welcher politische Einfluß ihnen deshalb attestiert werden kann. Schlußfolgerung ist, daß die Formen und Inhalte symbolischer Kommunikation in diesem Beziehungsfeld zu wenig bedacht und deshalb Annahmen zu Macht und Einfluß von Mitgliedern des herodischen Hauses nicht ausreichend differenziert getroffen werden.
Les seuiri augustales dans les Germanies: Etude des inscriptions
Authors: Amiri Bassir
Published: June 2010

Rsum

Le rôle social, économique et religieux des *Augustales dans l′Empire n′est plus à démontrer. Moins attestée que dans d′autres provinces, leur présence en Germanie n′en soulève pas moins des questions capitales relatives à leur rôle dans la transmission des valeurs issues de l′Empire. Quelles informations les sources épigraphiques livrent-elles sur leur intégration sociale, sur leur relation avec le pouvoir municipal et l′élite? Reposant sur des fondements instaurés par Auguste, leur autorité est renforcée par des aspects qui relèvent de l′idéologie et de la représentation sociale. Comment les sévirs des Germanies ont-ils voulu présenter leur relation avec le pouvoir et se mettre au service de ce pouvoir en devenant un instrument de l′acculturation des provinces au modèle romain?
A novel STAT5B mutation causing GH insensitivity syndrome associated with hyperprolactinemia and immune dysfunction in two male siblings
Authors: Pugliese-Pires Patricia N , Tonelli Carlos A , Dora Jose M , Silva Paulo C A , Czepielewski Mauro , Simoni Genoir , Arnhold Ivo J P , Jorge Alexander A L
Published: June 2010

Background

GH insensitivity (GHI) syndrome caused by STAT5B mutations was recently reported, and it is characterized by extreme short stature and immune dysfunction. Treatment with recombinant human IGF1 (rhIGF1) is approved for patients with GHI, but the growth response to this therapy in patients with STAT5B mutations has not been reported.

Objectives

To report the clinical features, molecular findings, and the short-term growth response to rhIGF1 therapy in patients with STAT5B mutation.

Subjects and methods

Hormonal and immunological evaluations were performed in two male siblings with GHI associated with atopic eczema, interstitial lung disease, and thrombocytopenic purpura. STAT5B genes were directly sequenced. The younger sibling was treated with rhIGF1 at a dose of 110 μg/kg BID.

Results

Both siblings had laboratory findings compatible with GHI associated with hyperprolactinemia. Lymphopenia and reduced number of natural killer cells without immunoglobulin abnormalities were observed. STAT5B sequence revealed a homozygous frameshift mutation (p.L142fsX161) in both siblings. The younger sibling (9.9 years of age) was treated with rhIGF1 at appropriate dosage, and he did not present any significant change in his growth velocity (from 2.3 to 3.0 cm/year after 1.5 years of therapy). The presence of a chronic illness could possibly be responsible for the poor result of rhIGF1 treatment. Further studies in patients with STAT5B defects are necessary to define the response to rhIGF1 treatment in this disorder.

Conclusion

GHI associated with immune dysfunction, especially interstitial lung disease, and hyperprolactinemia is strongly suggestive of a mutation in STAT5B in both sexes.
Recessive versus imprinted disorder: consanguinity can impede establishing the diagnosis of autosomal dominant pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ib
Authors: Turan Serap , Akin Leyla , Akcay Teoman , Adal Erdal , Sarikaya Sevil , Bastepe Murat , Jüppner Harald
Published: June 2010

Hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia with low/normal parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels can be observed in hypoparathyroidism (HP), a disorder that may follow an autosomal dominant (AD) or autosomal recessive (AR) mode of inheritance. Similar biochemical changes are also observed in pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) type Ia and Ib, but affected patients usually show elevated PTH levels indicative of hormonal resistance. Features of Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy (AHO) are typically not observed in patients affected by familial forms of PHP-Ib, which are most frequently caused by maternally inherited, heterozygous microdeletions within STX16 and are associated with isolated loss of methylation at GNAS exon A/B.

We established the molecular defect in two children of consanguineous Turkish parents, who presented with hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and low 25-OH vitamin D levels, but initially normal or only mildly elevated PTH levels, i.e. findings that do not readily exclude HP. After normalizing serum magnesium levels, hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia persisted, and PTH levels increased, suggesting PTH resistance rather than PTH deficiency. Because of the absence of AHO and parental consanguinity, an AR form of PHP-Ib appeared plausible, which had previously been suggested for sporadic cases. However, loss of GNAS methylation was restricted to exon A/B, which led to the identification of the 3-kb STX16 microdeletion. The same mutation was also detected in the healthy mother, who did not show any GNAS methylation abnormality, indicating that her deletion resides on the paternal allele.

Our findings emphasize the importance of considering a parentally imprinted, AD disorder even if consanguinity suggests an AR mode of inheritance.
Validation of Resonance Frequency Analysis by Comparing Implant Stability Quotient Values With Histomorphometric Data
Authors: Kunnekel Ashish Thomas , Nair K. Chandrasekharan , Naidu E. Munirathnam , Sivagami Gomathinayagam
Published: June 2010

The study was designed to determine the relationship between implant stability quotient (ISQ) values measured using resonance frequency analysis (RFA) and implant-bone distance measured histomorphometrically. Ten identical implants were equally divided into 2 groups based on primary stability at placement. Osteotomies were prepared in harvested goat femurs. ISQ values were measured and compared with implant-bone distance determined by micrometry. Based on the results, it was concluded that RFA can be used to measure implant stability reliably.
HPV vaccine introduction at the local level in a developing country: attitudes and criteria among key actors
Authors: Piñeros Marion , Wiesner Carolina , Cortés Claudia , Trujillo Lina María
Published: June 2010

In most developing countries, HPV vaccines have been licensed but there are no national policy recommendations, nor is it clear how decisions on the introduction of this new vaccine are made. Decentralization processes in many Latin American countries favor decision-making at the local level. Through a qualitative study we explored knowledge regarding the HPV vaccine and the criteria that influence decision-making among local health actors in four regions of Colombia. We conducted a total of 14 in-depths interviews with different actors; for the analysis we performed content analysis. Results indicate that decision-making on the HPV vaccine at the local level has mainly been driven by pressure from local political actors, in a setting where there is low technical knowledge of the vaccine. This increases the risk of initiatives that may foster inequity. Local decisions and initiatives need to be strengthened technically and supported by national-level decisions, guidelines and follow-up.
Nasotracheal Intubation Using the Airtraq Versus Macintosh Laryngoscope: A Manikin Study
Authors: Hirabayashi Yoshihiro , Seo Norimasa
Published: June 2010

The Airtraq laryngoscope is a new intubation device that provides a non–line-of-sight view of the glottis. We evaluated this device by comparing the ease of nasotracheal intubation on a manikin with the use of Airtraq versus the Macintosh laryngoscope with and without Magill forceps. Nasotracheal intubation on a manikin was performed by 20 anesthesiologists and 20 residents with the Airtraq or Macintosh laryngoscope. The mean (± SD) time required for nasotracheal intubation by the residents was significantly shorter with the Airtraq laryngoscope than with the Macintosh laryngoscope (16 ± 7 sec vs 22 ± 10 sec; P < .001), but no difference in intubation time was observed between Airtraq (15 ± 11 sec) and Macintosh (13 ± 6 sec) laryngoscopy by the anesthesiologists. The Magill forceps was used more frequently to facilitate intubation with the Macintosh laryngoscope than with the Airtraq laryngoscope in both groups of operators 7(P < .001). The Airtraq laryngoscope scored better on the visual analog scale than did the Macintosh laryngoscope in both groups of operators (P < .05). The Airtraq laryngoscope offers potential advantages over standard direct laryngoscopy for nasotracheal intubation.
Psychotropic Drugs: Implications For Dental Practice
Authors: Becker Daniel E.
Published: June 2010

Appropriate preoperative assessment of dental patients should always include analysis of their medications. Psychiatric illnesses including panic/anxiety disorder, depression, psychoses, and manic disorders are prevalent within our society. An impressive number of drug formulations are prescribed for these disorders, and they introduce concern regarding side effects and possible drug interactions with medications the dentist may deem necessary for dental care. This article will address essential pharmacology of these psychotropic medications.
Microstructure of super-austenitic steels after long-term annealing
Authors: Kraus Martin , Kroupa Aleš , Miodownik Peter , Svoboda Milan , Vrestal Jan
Published: June 2010

Longevity of materials, especially technological parts, is influenced by microstructure development during long-time annealing of such parts during their industrial service. Important relations between the volume fractions of phases and the time of service, especially the precipitation of intermetallics need to be revealed. The present study describes the time dependence of the structure development of two corrosion resistant steels with chromium content of 27 and 32 wt.% and various additions of nickel, molybdenum, manganese, silicon, copper and nitrogen. The microstructure was studied on samples annealed at 700 °C for 500, 3 188 and 6 170 h, revealing the kinetics of the equilibrium process. The homogeneity of samples was checked before heat treatment. The experimental microstructures are compared with the predicted phase composition. The effect of using different databases is also discussed.
Steady state creep in a rotating composite disc of variable thickness
Authors: Deepak Dharmpal , Gupta Vinay K. , Dham Ashok K.
Published: June 2010

The steady state creep in a rotating disc having variable thickness and made of isotropic aluminium–silicon carbide particulate composite has been investigated. Using threshold stress based creep law, the general expressions for stresses and strain rates in the discs have been obtained. The expressions are used to calculate the distributions of stresses and strain rates in different discs viz (i) disc having constant thickness (ii) disc having linearly varying thickness and (iii) disc having hyperbolically varying thickness. The volume of different discs is kept the same. The study revealed that the stresses and strain rates in the disc could be reduced to a significant extent by varying the disc profile. The linearly varying disc exhibits the lowest values of stresses and strain rates compared to those observed in hyperbolic or uniform thickness disc.
The heat capacity measurements of CoSb3-based Skutterudite compounds
Authors: Zhang Yubi , Li Changrong , Xu Guiying , Du Zhenmin , Guo Cuiping , Li Jingbo
Published: June 2010

The thermoelectric materials of CoSb3-based Skutterudite compounds were prepared by spark plasma sintering. The micrographic images, the elemental compositions and the crystalline structures of the samples were characterized by scanning electronic microscopy, energy spectrum analysis and X-ray diffraction respectively. The molar heat capacities of CoSb3, (Co0.95Ni0.05)Sb3 and Er0.1CoSb3 were measured by modulated differential scanning calorimetry from 190 to 600 K. The results show that both the transition element Ni and the rare-earth element Er can decrease considerably the molar heat capacities of CoSb3-based compounds.
Effect of cyclic heat treatment on the microstructures and mechanical properties of Ti–Si alloys
Authors: Zhang Xinjiang , Zhan Yongzhong , She Jia , Hu Jing , Du Yong
Published: June 2010

Samples of Ti-8Si, Ti-13.67Si and Ti-23Si (at.%) alloys treated using different cyclic heat treatment processes have been investigated using X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The microstructures, Vickers hardnesses and compressive properties of the as-cast and annealed samples are compared. For the Ti-8Si and Ti-23Si alloys, only the eutectic microstructure in the as-cast alloy is obviously altered after annealed at 900 °C (where β-Ti is stable) for 20 min and then cooled in air with six cyclic treatments, or firstly treated at 900 °C (where β-Ti is stable) for 20 min followed by quenching in air, and then treated at 700 °C (where α-Ti is stable) for 40 min followed by cooling in furnace, with six cycles) cyclic heat treatment. The microstructure of Ti-13.67Si alloy changes from the features of clubbed and larger sized Ti5Si3 grains to finer grain size during different cyclic heat treatment. Vickers hardness of all alloys is significantly increased in the cyclic processing. For the Ti-23Si alloys, particles in the eutectic structure of as-cast alloy were spheroidized after cyclic heat treatment, resulting in increasing of both Vickers hardness and compressive properties.
Reaction of Selected Peanut Varieties and Breeding Lines to Southern Stem Rot1
Authors: Besler B. A. , Grichar W. James , Smith O. D.
Published: June 2010

Eight Texas and one Georgia breeding lines, four accessions from Burkina Faso (West Africa), and six runner and two spanish-type cultivars were compared for yield, grade, and susceptibility to Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. for 3 yr under irrigated field conditions. The spanish-type cultivar Tamspan 90 and runner-type breeding line TX896100 (recently released as Tamrun 96) consistently had the lowest disease incidence for all 3 yr. Averaged over years, TX896100 was the highest yielding entry. Four breeding lines resulted in a 2 to 16% yield increase over Okrun, the highest yielding cultivar. The African accessions, in general, produced low yields and low grades with no advantages in disease resistance.
Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Response to Imazethapyr as Affected by Timing of Application1
Authors: Grichar W. James , Nester P. R. , Sestak D. C.
Published: June 2010

Field studies were conducted in 1994 and 1995 to evaluate the effect of imazethapyr on peanut growth and yield under weed-free conditions as influenced by timing of application. Imazethapyr applied preemergence (PRE) and 7, 21, 35, 49, and 63 d after planting (DAP) had no effect on peanut pod weight. In 1 of 2 yr, imazethapyr applied PRE, 21 DAP, or 35 DAP increased yield over the untreated check. In 1 of 2 yr, peanut grade was reduced with imazethapyr applied 49 DAP.
Effect of Soil pH on Sclerotial Germination and Pathogenicity of Sclerotium rolfsii1
Authors: Shim M-Y. , Starr J. L.
Published: June 2010

The effect of soil pH on sclerotial germination and pathogenicity of two isolates of Sclerotium rolfsii on peanut was examined. Sclerotial germination for both isolates was greater (P ≤ 0.05) in acidic soil than at alkaline pHs. Similarly, percentage of peanut stems infected by S. rolfsii in greenhouse tests was greater at soil pH 5.6 than at alkaline soil pHs (P ≤ 0.05), but disease did develop at soil pH 8.7 and 9.8. In contrast to a previous in vitro study, these data confirm that sclerotia of S. rolfsii will germinate and initiate disease at soil pH > 7.0.
The Effect of Dry Pegging Zone Soil on Pod Formation of Florunner Peanut1
Authors: Sexton P. J. , Bennett J. M. , Boote K. J.
Published: June 2010

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) fruit growth is sensitive to surface soil (0-5 cm) conditions due to its subterranean fruiting habit. This study was conducted to determine the effect of soil water content in the pegging zone (0-5 cm) on peanut pod growth rate and development. A pegging-pan-root-tube apparatus was used to separately control soil water content in the pegging and root zone for greenhouse trials. A field study also was conducted using portable rainout shelters to create a soil water deficit. Pod phenology, pod and seed growth rates, and final pod and seed dry weights were determined. In greenhouse studies, dry pegging zone soil delayed pod and seed development. In the field, soil water deficits in the pegging and root zone decreased pod and seed growth rates by approximately 30% and decreased weight per seed from 563 to 428 mg. Pegs initiating growth during drought stress demonstrated an ability to suspend development during the period of soil water deficit and to re-initiate pod development after the drought stress was relieved.
Sensory Quality Traits of the Runner-Type Peanut Cultivar Georgia Green and its Value as a Parent Compared with Florunnner1
Authors: Pattee H. E. , Isleib T. G. , Gorbet D. W. , Moore K. M. , Lopez Y. , Baring M. R. , Simpson C. E.
Published: June 2010

Georgia Green has become the dominant runner market-type peanut cultivar in the United States because of its high yield and superior disease resistance to tomato spotted wilt virus. However, the roasted peanut flavor quality of Georgia Green has not been formally reported, and questions regarding its flavor quality have been expressed by the peanut industry. The objective of this study was to compare the roasted peanut flavor qualities of Georgia Green to those of the long-time industry standard Florunner. This study also provided an opportunity to further expand investigations into the parent selection effects on progeny roasted peanut flavor quality. A total of 192 samples of cultivars Florunner, Georgia Green, and Georgia Greens parents, Southern Runner and Sunbelt Runner, were collected from 1986 to 2000 from the Southeast, Southwest, and Virginia-Carolina peanut production regions. A descriptive sensory panel evaluated flavor attributes of a roasted sound mature kernel (SMK) sample from each plot. The sensory attributes of the four genotypes were compared directly, and the data were included in a Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (BLUP) model of breeding value of 112 peanut cultivars and breeding lines. Georgia Green was not significantly different from the industry standard cultivar Florunner in the sensory attributes roasted peanut [4.5 vs. 4.1 flavor intensity units (fiu), ns], bitter (3.2 vs. 3.3 fiu, ns), and astringent (3.3 vs. 3.4 fiu, ns). It was significantly sweeter than Florunner (3.3 vs 3.0 fiu, P < 0.05). The BLUPs of breeding value for roasted peanut and sweet attributes of Georgia Green were among the highest of any peanut lines included in the analysis. Based on this finding, widespread use of Georgia Green as a parent should contribute to flavor improvement in peanut breeding programs.
Development of Stem Rot (Caused by Sclerotium rolfsii) in Peanut in Alabama
Authors: Bowen K. L.
Published: June 2010

Stem rot, or southern blight, caused by the fungus Sclerotium rolfsii, is an important disease of peanut in the southeastern U.S. Incidence and apparent onset of stem rot varies from year to year depending on planting date, weather conditions, and other factors. In order to more fully understand the effects of weather on stem rot, disease progress was evaluated through the 1995, 1996, and 1997 cropping seasons. Evidence of S. rolfsii was observed on peanut roots and crowns as early as 20 d after planting (DAP), which was 1 to several wk before stem rot lesions or plant wilt were observed. Disease measures tended to be lower in 1997 than in preceding years even though more rainfall and more consistent soil moisture were noted in 1997. Soil moisture was frequently in excess of field capacity from rainfall and may have contributed to suppressing stem rot development in 1997, perhaps by limiting oxygen availability. In 1995 and 1996, rainfall patterns were more normal and irrigation contributed to greater stem rot incidence. However, low moisture, specifically 7 d with < 1.8 cm rain, was associated with increases in numbers of dead plants, perhaps due to cumulative stress from disease and lack of moisture. Areas under disease progress curves for stem rot tended to be greater for early plantings compared to late plantings. However, by ca. 118 DAP, early plantings did not consistently have a greater incidence of dead plants, probably due to environmental conditions immediately preceding that date.
Control of Seed Transmission of Cylindrocladium parasiticum in Peanut with Seed Treatment Fungicides
Authors: Glenn D. L. , Phipps P. M. , Stipes R. J.
Published: June 2010

Seeds of peanut cultivars VA 98R and NC-V11 with speckled testae were treated with fungicide and assayed on a selective medium to determine the viability of Cylindrocladium parasiticum. The fungus was isolated from 78 and 90% of the untreated speckled seed of the respective cultivars. Seed treatment with captan + pcnb + carboxin, fludioxonil, captan, and thiophanate methyl significantly reduced recovery of the pathogen in both cultivars. Speckled seed of VA 98R and NC-V11 were treated with fungicides and planted in greenhouse and/or field trials in Suffolk, VA. Plants became infected with C. parasiticum after treated and untreated speckled seed were planted in steam-treated soil in the greenhouse. In one trial, seed treatment with fludioxonil, tebuconazole, and LS 176 significantly reduced taproot colonization by C. parasiticum compared to the untreated check. In a second greenhouse trial, only fludioxonil provided significant suppression of disease. In the field, treatment with fludioxonil, thiram, and tebuconazole significantly lowered Cylindrocladium black rot (CBR) incidence compared to the untreated check. Thiram significantly reduced taproot colonization compared to all treatments except fludioxonil. Based on the present study, the addition of thiram and/or fludioxonil to the standard treatment of captan + pcnb + carboxin may offer the best protection against seed transmission of C. parasiticum.