bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Program Effectiveness of a Restorative Whole-School Approach for Tackling School Bullying in Hong Kong
Authors: Wong Dennis S. W. , Cheng Christopher H. K. , Ngan Raymond M. H. , Ma Stephen K.
Published: July 2010

With bullying in schools high on policy makers’ agendas, researchers are looking for effective strategies to tackle its disruptive effects. The present study sets out to address this issue. First, the prevalence of bullying is examined in Hong Kong High Schools, and second, the effectiveness of a Restorative Whole-school Approach (RWsA) in reducing bullying is examined in a quasi-experimental design. The RWsA emphasizes the setting up of restorative goals, clear instructions, team building, and good relationships among students, parents, and teachers. Over the course of 2 years, and across four schools, the effectiveness of this program was observed by comparing an intervention group with a partial intervention group (which did not receive the full treatment) and a control group (which received no treatment whatsoever). The group that received the RWsA treatment exhibited a significant reduction of bullying, higher empathic attitudes, and higher self-esteem in comparison to the partial intervention and the control group.
Relationship of the Job Tenure of Nursing Home Top Management to the Prevalence of Pressure Ulcers, Pain, and Physical Restraint Use
Authors: Decker Frederic H. , Castle Nicholas G.
Published: July 2010

The association of job tenure among nursing home administrators (NHAs) and directors of nursing (DONs) with the prevalence of pressure ulcers, pain, and physical restraint use was examined. Data sources included the 2004 National Nursing Home Survey and quality measures from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Regression models examined NHA tenure ( n = 787) and DON tenure ( n = 703). Control variables included prior prevalence of the respective outcome, NHA/DON education, and facility characteristics among others. Increasing NHA and DON tenure were both associated with decreases in the prevalence of pressure ulcers and pain but not restraint use. DON tenure had more impact on outcomes in earlier stages of tenure than NHA tenure. Effects of NHA tenure were in later stages of tenure. Increasing tenure among NHAs and DONs may influence better resident outcomes within their facility.
Reduction in cotton dust concentration does not totally eliminate respiratory health hazards: The Greek study
Authors: Boubopoulos Nectarios J , Constandinidis Theodoros C , Froudarakis Marios E , Bouros Demosthenes
Published: July 2010

A number of epidemiological studies have shown that byssinosis is associated with exposure to high levels of cotton dust. In this first survey, the prevalence of respiratory symptoms in cotton workers under low concentration of cotton dust was investigated. A respiratory questionnaire consisting of 47 questions was given to 443 cotton workers. Their lung function was measured with spirometry. Breathing zone cotton dust concentration was measured by personal samplers and static sampling was used to define the level of the work area concentration. Workers with abnormalities in the pulmonary function parameters, including forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), were 5.9%. In this group of operatives 7.7% had symptoms compatible with byssinosis, 65.4% of them were smokers, 69.2% of them had symptoms of allergic rhinitis, while 72.2% of them were smokers. Asthma, which appeared after the age of 30, was reported by 57.7%, while 60% of them were smokers. Mean breathing zone cotton dust concentration was 0.16 mg/m3 and the mean work area cotton dust concentration 0.14 mg/m3. Despite the reduction in cotton dust concentration, byssinosis symptoms, allergic rhinitis, asthma and impaired pulmonary function are the most common findings in our cotton workers depending on the duration of exposure, whether they are smokers or not and the nature of the cotton dust.
Heavy metals (Zn, Pb, Cd and Cr) in fish, water and sediments sampled form Southern Caspian Sea, Iran
Authors: Tabari Saleh , Saravi Seyed Soheil Saeedi , Bandany Gholamali A , Dehghan Atena , Shokrzadeh Mohammad
Published: July 2010

Environmental pollution is a worldwide problem, heavy metals belonging to the most important pollutants. The progress of industries has led to increased emission of pollutants into ecosystems. Southern Caspian Sea coast is one of the most important aquasystems at the eastern south of Caspian Sea, which receives effluents discharges from heavily industrialized and highly populated settlements. Metals tend to accumulate in water and move up through the food chain. So, studies to ascertain the level of heavy metals in environment and determine potentially hazardous levels for human are necessary. In this investigation, concentration of four heavy metals (zinc [Zn], chromium (Cr), cadmium, [Cd] and lead [Pb]) in three species of most-consumed fishes, water and sediments have been determined. Samples were collected from 10 stations along the Southern coast of Caspian Sea, in spring 2008. Heavy metal concentrations were measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Then, the data were analyzed by means of one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) statistical analysis. The results showed that the highest concentration of heavy metals in water and fish and sediment samples were related to Pb and Zn. The minimal and maximal concentrations of these metals in fishes, water and sediments were 53.67—2360.67 and 50.36—2497.25 for Pb and Zn, respectively. However, the observed heavy metals concentrations in fish, water and sediments were below the recommended limits. The investigation showed elevating levels of heavy metals in environment. Thus, a serious notification to industrial and manmade pollution, which can lead to ecosystem and food chain contamination, is necessary.
Induction of oxidative stress and cytotoxicity by carbon nanomaterials is dependent on physical properties
Authors: Rama Narsimha Reddy A. , Narsimha Reddy Y. , Himabindu V. , Rama Krishna D.
Published: July 2010

In this study, we investigated the mechanisms involved in multi-wall carbon particles/nanomaterials (MWCNM) induced cytotoxicity using human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells and to assess the effect of physicochemical properties on the cytotoxicity and oxidative stress induced by the carbon nanomaterials (CNM). To elucidate the possible mechanisms of CNM-induced cytotoxicity, cell viability (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide [MTT assay]), cell membrane damage (lactate dehydrogenase enzyme [LDH] assay), reduced glutathione (GSH), interleukin-8 (IL-8) and lipid peroxidation levels were quantitatively assessed under carbon nanomaterials exposed (48 h) conditions. Exposure of different sizes of four CNM at dosage levels between 3 and 300 μg/mL decreased cell viability in a concentration- and size-dependent manner. Exposure of CNM (10-100 μg/mL) to HEK cells resulted in size-, surface area- and concentration-dependent cell membrane damage, increased production of IL-8, increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and decreased intracellular glutathione levels. In summary, the physical properties of carbon nanoparticles may alter the CNM-induced concentration-dependent cytotoxicity and oxidative stress.
The crossover generation: Baby boomers and the role of the public library
Authors: Williamson Kirsty , Bannister Marion , Sullivan Jen
Published: July 2010

The article explores the concept of baby boomers as a ‘crossover’ generation, one that embodies characteristics of previous and later generations. The context is the retirement of the baby boomers and its potential impact on the public library. Ethnographic method within a constructivist framework was used, employing the techniques of focus groups and individual interviews. The findings focus on four principal areas: baby boomer characteristics; information needs and resource use; social needs; and the role of volunteering. Comparisons are made with other generations, as appropriate. The conclusion is that, despite some shared characteristics, differences require innovative responses from public libraries.
Parents’ Experiences of What Comforts Them When Their Child is Suffering From Cancer
Authors: Ångström-Brännström Charlotte , Norberg Astrid , Strandberg Gunilla , Söderberg Anna , Dahlqvist Vera
Published: July 2010

The aim of the study was to describe parents’ narratives concerning what they find comforting when they have a child suffering from cancer. Interviews were conducted with 9 parents—8 mothers and 1 father—of children aged 3 to 9 years who were admitted to a pediatric oncology ward and had undergone their first treatment. The findings showed that the parents derived comfort from being close to their child, perceiving the child’s strength, feeling at home in the ward, being a family and being at home, and receiving support from their social network. Comfort experienced in communion with the child and others became important and helped the parents build a new normality perceived as being at home in life despite all their difficulties. Within the frame of communion, the parents seemed to experience moments of hope for their child’s recovery and survival.
Urinary neopterin and nitric oxide metabolites as markers of interferon β-1a activity in primary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Rejdak K. , Leary SM , Petzold A. , Thompson AJ , Miller DH , Giovannoni G.
Published: July 2010

Background: Interferon beta has not been demonstrated to be effective in exploratory phase 2 clinical trials in primary progressive multiple sclerosis. However, using more sensitive indicators of a treatment response, such as biomarkers, might help to identify sub-groups of patients who may benefit from therapy.

Objective: To assess the utility of measuring urinary neopterin and nitric oxide metabolite excretion for monitoring interferon β-1a (IFNβ-1a) treatment in patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis.

Methods: Fifty patients from a phase II trial of IFNβ-1a (Placebo n = 20; Avonex® 1 × 30 μg/week (IFN-30), n = 15; Avonex® 1 × 60 μg/week (IFN-60), n = 15), were enrolled. Patients were assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale. Urine samples were collected on each visit, 3 months apart, for a period of 24 months. Nitric oxide metabolites, nitrite/nitrate (NOx), were measured by colorimetric assay and neopterin and creatinine (Cr) were assayed using a high-performance liquid chromatography technique. NOx/creatinine ratio (NOxCR) and urinary neopterin/creatinine ratio (UNCR) quotients were calculated.

Results: There was no significant difference between pre-dose, baseline levels of UNCR or NOxCR between the study groups. On the intention-to-treat analysis, there was a significant difference in UNCR levels between the placebo compared with IFN-30 ( p = 0.03) or IFN-60 ( p = 0.002) groups. The IFN-30 and IFN-60 groups did not differ. Within IFNβ-1a-treated patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis, median UNCR values were significantly higher in clinically stable (no Expanded Disability Status Scale change) compared with progressive patients ( p = 0.002). IFNβ-1a treatment did not significantly influence NOx excretion in patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis.

Conclusions: Urinary neopterin is a potential biomarker to monitor the in vivo effects of IFNβ-1a in primary progressive multiple sclerosis and other multiple sclerosis sub-types.
Cost-effectiveness of 12- and 15-year-old girls’ human papillomavirus 16/18 population-based vaccination programmes in Lithuania
Authors: Vanagas Giedrius , Padaiga Žilvinas , Kurtinaitis Juozas , Logminienė Ženeta
Published: July 2010

Background: There is a large difference in the prevalence of cervical cancer between European countries. Between European Union countries, cervical cancer is the most prevalent in Lithuania. Currently we have available vaccines for different types of human papillomavirus virus (HPV), but we lack evidence on how the vaccination would be cost-effective in low-resource Eastern European countries like Lithuania. Objectives: To create a simulation model for the Lithuanian population; to estimate epidemiological benefits and cost-effectiveness for a HPV16/18 vaccination programme in Lithuania. Study design: For the cost-effectiveness analysis, we used Lithuanian population mathematical simulation and epidemiological data modelling. We performed comparative analysis of annual vaccination programmes of 12-year-old or 15-year-old girls at different vaccine penetration levels. Population: Lithuanian female population at all age groups. Results: A vaccination programme in Lithuania would gain an average of 35.6 life years per death avoided. Vaccinated girls would experience up to 76.9% overall reduction in incidence of cervical cancers, 80.8% reduction in morbidity and 77.9% reduction in mortality over their lifetime. Cost per life year gained with different vaccine penetration levels would range from 2167.41 to 2999.74. Conclusions: HPV vaccination in Lithuania would have a very positive impact on the epidemiological situation and it would be cost-effective at all ranges of vaccine penetration. Vaccination in Lithuania in the long term potentially could be more cost-effective due to avoiding early disease onset and lower accumulation of period costs.
Review: Association between angiotensin converting enzyme G2350A polymorphism and hypertension risk: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wenquan Niu  , Yue Qi  , Pingjin Gao  , Dingliang Zhu
Published: July 2010

Background and objective: An exonic polymorphism G2350A (rs4343) in angiotensin converting enzyme (protein: ACE; gene: ACE) was shown to exert the most significant influence on plasma ACE levels. We therefore performed a meta-analysis to investigate association of ACE G2350A polymorphism with hypertension.

Methods: Published case-control studies in English were identified. A total of four studies with 1699 cases and 1274 controls were identified. A random-effects model was performed irrespective of the between-study heterogeneity. Study quality was assessed in duplicate.

Results: Compared with 2350G, the ACE 2350A allele conferred a protective effect on hypertension (odds ratio (OR) = 0.81; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.56—1.18; p = .28). Similarly, comparisons of 2350AA and 2350GA with 2350GG generated a nonsignificant reduced risk, respectively. Under the dominant model, the ACE 2350A allele conferred a reduced hypertension risk and such associations were divergent between Han Chinese and Muslims from the Arab Gulf and Pakistan. Under the recessive model, this protective effect was totally reversed (OR = 1.01; 95% CI, 0.77—1.33; p = .94). Subgroup analyses indicated a significant protective effect of ACE 2350A compared with 2350G among Muslims from the Arab Gulf and Pakistan (OR = 0.55; 95% CI, 0.42—0.71; p < .00001). No publication biases were observed.

Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that the ACE 2350A allele is associated with a significantly reduced hypertension risk among Muslims from the Arab Gulf and Pakistan, yet an elevated risk among Han Chinese.
Methylprednisolone infusion for life-threatening H1N1-virus infection
Authors: Confalonieri Marco , Cifaldi Rossella , Dreas Lorella , Viviani Marino , Biolo Marco , Gabrielli Marco
Published: July 2010

Background: During winter 2009 we treated with prolonged corticosteroid infusion eight consecutive patients affected by H1N1-virus infection and severe pneumonia. The most severe patient was a previously healthy 30-year-old man admitted to hospital because of bilateral pneumonia and severe acute respiratory failure.

Method: H1N1-virus infection was detected by broncho-alveolar lavage performed on day 1. After some days following admission the patient was still in a life-threatening state, not responding to oseltamivir, protective mechanical ventilation and veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

Results: The addition of methylprednisolone infusion at a stress dose (1 mg/kg/24 h) as rescue therapy significantly and rapidly improved the clinical condition. Weaning from ECMO and invasive mechanical ventilation was possible within a relatively few days.

Conclusion: According to the literature reports more than 34% of H1N1-virus severe infections were treated with corticosteroids. This report and our experience may suggest a possible life-saving use of corticosteroids at a stress dose in severely ill patients with an H1N1-virus infection that is not responding to the most advanced treatments.
Integration of physical and genetic maps of common bean through BAC-derived microsatellite markers
Authors: Córdoba Juana M , Chavarro Carolina , Schlueter Jessica A , Jackson Scott A , Blair Matthew W
Published: July 2010

Background

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgarisL.) is the most important legume for direct human consumption and the goal of this study was to integrate a recently constructed physical map for the species with a microsatellite based genetic map using a BAC library from the genotype G19833 and the recombinant inbred line population DOR364 × G19833.

Results

We searched for simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in the 89,017 BAC-end sequences (BES) from the physical map and genetically mapped any polymorphic BES-SSRs onto the genetic map. Among the BES it was possible to identify 623 contig-linked SSRs, most of which were highly AT-rich. A subgroup of 230 di-nucleotide and tri-nucleotide based SSR primer pairs from these BACs was tested on the mapping parents with 176 single copy loci and 114 found to be polymorphic markers. Of these, 99 were successfully integrated into the genetic map. The 99 linkages between the genetic and physical maps corresponded to an equal number of contigs containing a total of 5,055 BAC clones.

Conclusions

Class II microsatellites were more common in the BES than longer class I microsatellites. Both types of markers proved to be valuable for linking BAC clones to the genetic map and were successfully placed across all 11 linkage groups. The integration of common bean physical and genetic maps is an important part of comparative genome analysis and a prelude to positional cloning of agronomically important genes for this crop.
The role of prostaglandin E2 (PGE 2) in toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-mediated colitis-associated neoplasia
Authors: Hernandez Yasmin , Sotolongo John , Breglio Keith , Conduah Daisy , Chen Anli , Xu Ruliang , Hsu David , Ungaro Ryan , Hayes Lory A , Pastorini Cristhine , Abreu Maria T , Fukata Masayuki
Published: July 2010

Background

We have previously found that TLR4-deficient (TLR4-/-) mice demonstrate decreased expression of mucosal PGE2and are protected against colitis-associated neoplasia. However, it is still unclear whether PGE2is the central factor downstream of TLR4 signaling that promotes intestinal tumorigenesis. To further elucidate critical downstream pathways involving TLR4-mediated intestinal tumorigenesis, we examined the effects of exogenously administered PGE2in TLR4-/- mice to see if PGE2bypasses the protection from colitis-associated tumorigenesis.

Method

Mouse colitis-associated neoplasia was induced by azoxymethane (AOM) injection followed by two cycles of dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) treatment. Two different doses of PGE2(high dose group, 200 μg, n = 8; and low dose group, 100 μg, n = 6) were administered daily during recovery period of colitis by gavage feeding. Another group was given PGE2during DSS treatment (200 μg, n = 5). Inflammation and dysplasia were assessed histologically. Mucosal Cox-2 and amphiregulin (AR) expression, prostanoid synthesis, and EGFR activation were analyzed.

Results

In control mice treated with PBS, the average number of tumors was greater in WT mice (n = 13) than in TLR4-/- mice (n = 7). High dose but not low dose PGE2treatment caused an increase in epithelial proliferation. 28.6% of PBS-treated TLR4-/- mice developed dysplasia (tumors/animal: 0.4 ± 0.2). By contrast, 75.0% (tumors/animal: 1.5 ± 1.2, P < 0.05) of the high dose group and 33.3% (tumors/animal: 0.3 ± 0.5) of the low dose group developed dysplasia in TLR4-/- mice. Tumor size was also increased by high dose PGE2treatment. Endogenous prostanoid synthesis was differentially affected by PGE2treatment during acute and recovery phases of colitis. Exogenous administration of PGE2increased colitis-associated tumorigenesis but this only occurred during the recovery phase. Lastly, PGE2treatment increased mucosal expression of AR and Cox-2, thus inducing EGFR activation and forming a positive feedback mechanism to amplify mucosal Cox-2.

Conclusions

These results highlight the importance of PGE2as a central downstream molecule involving TLR4-mediated intestinal tumorigenesis.
Relationship between H.Pylori infection and clinicopathological features and prognosis of gastric cancer
Authors: Qiu Hai-Bo , Zhang Li-Yi , Keshari Rajiv-Prasad , Wang Guo-Qiang , Zhou Zhi-Wei , Xu Da-Zhi , Wang Wei , Zhan You-Qin , Li Wei
Published: July 2010

Background

Aimed to assess the relationship between H.Pylori and the clinicopathological features and prognosis of gastric cancer by quantitative detection of H.Pylori.

Methods

157 patients were enrolled, all patients had a record of clinicopathological parameters. Specimens including the tumor and non-neoplastic were detected for H.Pylori by Real-Time PCR and analyzed clinical data retrospectively. Variables independently affecting prognosis were investigated by means of multivariate analysis using the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

H.Pylori infection was greater in non-neoplastic tissue than the tumor tissue (p < 0.05), H.Pylori infection and its copies were related to the tumor site and N staging (p < 0.05). Overall survival (OS) in all 157 patients has no correlation with the H.Pylori infection status (p = 0.715). As to the patients who underwent a curative surgery, relapse-free survival (RFS) has no correlation with the H.Pylori infection status (p = 0.639). Among the H.Pylori positive patients, OS and RFS of those with higher copies were longer than in patients with low copies, but there was no significant statistical difference.

Conclusions

H.Pylori infection status and its copies were related to N staging. The OS and RFS in patients with positive H.Pylori status has no significant difference from the patients with negative H.Pylori status.
A diagnostic PCR assay for the detection of an Australian epidemic strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Williams Heidi L , Turnbull Lynne , Thomas Susan J , Murphy Anna , Stinear Tim , Armstrong David S , Whitchurch Cynthia B
Published: July 2010

Background

Chronic lung infection with the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the hallmarks of cystic fibrosis (CF) and is associated with worsening lung function, increased hospitalisation and reduced life expectancy. A virulent clonal strain of P. aeruginosa (Australian epidemic strain I; AES-I) has been found to be widespread in CF patients in eastern Australia.

Methods

Suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) was employed to identify genetic sequences that are present in the AES-I strain but absent from the sequenced reference strain PAO1. We used PCR to evaluate the distribution of several of the AES-I loci amongst a collection of 188 P. aeruginosa isolates which was comprised of 35 AES-I isolates (as determined by PFGE), 78 non-AES-I CF isolates including other epidemic CF strains as well as 69 P. aeruginosa isolates from other clinical and environmental sources.

Results

We have identified a unique AES-I genetic locus that is present in all 35 AES-I isolates tested and not present in any of the other 153 P. aeruginosa strains examined. We have used this unique AES-I locus to develop a diagnostic PCR and a real-time PCR assay to detect the presence of P. aeruginosa and AES-I in patient sputum samples.

Conclusions

We have developed diagnostic PCR assays that are 100% sensitive and 100% specific for the P. aeruginosa strain AES-I. We have also shown that Whatman FTA® Elute cards may be used with PCR-based assays to rapidly detect the presence of P. aeruginosa strains in CF sputum.
Expression and intracellular localization of duck enteritis virus pUL38 protein
Authors: Xiang Jun , Ma Guangpeng , Zhang Shunchuan , Cheng Anchun , Wang Mingshu , Zhu Dekang , Jia Renyong , Luo Qihui , Chen Zhengli , Chen Xiaoyue
Published: July 2010

Knowledge of the intracellular location of a protein can provide useful insights into its function. Bioinformatic studies have predicted that the DEV pUL38 mainly targets the cytoplasm and nucleus. In this study, we obtained anti-pUL38 polyclonal sera. These antibodies were functional in western blotting and immunofluorescence in DEV-infected duck embryo fibroblasts (DEFs). pUL38 was expressed as a 51-kDa protein from 8 h post-infection onward, initially showing a diffuse distribution throughout the cytoplasm, and later in the nucleus. Furthermore, pUL38 was found in purified virus. These results provide the first evidence of the kinetics of expression and intracellular localization of DEV pUL38.
Bone morphogenetic protein 2 inhibits FSH responsiveness in hen granulosa cells
Authors: Haugen Morgan J , Johnson A L
Published: July 2010

Prior to follicle selection into the preovulatory hierarchy, hen granulosa cells from prehierarchal follicles remain undifferentiated, as defined in part by the virtual absence of LHR mRNA expression and inability to produce progesterone. It has previously been proposed that prior to follicle selection, granulosa cells are actively maintained in an undifferentiated state by epidermal growth factor receptor ligands (EGFRL) signaling via the MAP kinase/extracellular regulated kinase pathway. Moreover, there is recent evidence that EGFRL/MAP kinase signaling modulates FSH receptor (FSHR) transcription, in part, via inhibitor of differentiation/DNA-binding (ID) proteins. In the present studies with undifferentiated granulosa, recombinant human (rh) bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) induced the phosphorylation of SMAD1/5/8, and blocked transforming growth factor β and FSH-induced FSHR expression and progesterone production. Significantly, BMP2 rapidly induced mRNAs encoding betacellulin and EGF, plus ID proteins (ID1, ID3, and ID4). Alternatively, the bioactivity of BMPs can be modulated by one or more BMP antagonists, including noggin (NOG). NOG mRNA is expressed by both hen granulosa and theca tissues from prehierarchal follicles. Pretreatment of cultured granulosa with rh NOG reversed both the stimulatory effects of BMP2 on ID1, ID3, and ID4 expression and the inhibitory effects of BMP2 on FSHR mRNA levels and progesterone production. Collectively, these data provide evidence that prior to follicle selection, BMP2 signaling contributes toward maintaining granulosa cells in an undifferentiated state. The actions of BMP2 are, at least in part, mediated indirectly via enhanced EGFRL expression and ERBB receptor-mediated MAP kinase signaling, and can be modulated by the autocrine/paracrine production of NOG.
HDACs class II-selective inhibition alters nuclear receptor-dependent differentiation
Authors: Nebbioso Angela , Dell'Aversana Carmela , Bugge Anne , Sarno Roberta , Valente Sergio , Rotili Dante , Manzo Fabio , Teti Diana , Mandrup Susanne , Ciana Paolo , Maggi Adriana , Mai Antonello , Gronemeyer Hinrich , Altucci Lucia
Published: July 2010

Epigenetic deregulation contributes to diseases including cancer, neurodegeneration, osteodystrophy, cardiovascular defects, and obesity. For this reason, several inhibitors for histone deacetylases (HDACs) are being validated as novel anti-cancer drugs in clinical studies and display important anti-proliferative activities. While most inhibitors act on both class I, II, and IV HDACs, evidence is accumulating that class I is directly involved in regulation of cell growth and death, whereas class II members regulate differentiation processes, such as muscle and neuronal differentiation. Here, we show that the novel class II-selective inhibitor MC1568 interferes with the RAR- and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ)-mediated differentiation-inducing signaling pathways. In F9 cells, this inhibitor specifically blocks endodermal differentiation despite not affecting retinoic acid-induced maturation of promyelocytic NB4 cells. In 3T3-L1 cells, MC1568 attenuates PPARγ-induced adipogenesis, while the class I-selective MS275 blocked adipogenesis completely thus revealing a different mode of action and/or target profile of the two classes of HDACs. Using in vivo reporting PPRE-Luc mice, we find that MC1568 impairs PPARγ signaling mostly in the heart and adipose tissues. These results illustrate how HDAC functions can be dissected by selective inhibitors.
Keeping score: addressing the deficit in a balanced fashion
Authors: Goldie Simon
Published: July 2010

Infrastructure can be a soft target for governments looking for cuts. ACE chief executive Nelson Ogunshakin advises the new UK administration to use a balanced-scorecard approach to avoid scrapping projects that are essential to economic development.
Developing ICE's public voice to influence public policy
Authors: Crudgington Andrew
Published: July 2010

ICE has developed a ‘public voice’ on policy affecting the profession in order to have a greater influence upon it. Policy panel chairman Tim Broyd and senior policy manager Andrew Crudgington explain how this voice is developed and disseminated.
Translocating wildlife habitats: a guide for civil engineers
Authors: Box John , Stanhope Kat
Published: July 2010

There is increasing public and regulatory pressure on civil engineers to retain or replace established wildlife habitats during project design and delivery. However, they can also be moved. Habitat translocation is an effective and long-standing technique that can be used to rescue or salvage homes for wildlife which would otherwise be lost. This paper presents three case studies which demonstrate how civil engineers can successfully translocate and retain habitats on site, albiet in different locations, resulting in wide-ranging project benefits.
The history of British motorways and lessons for the future
Authors: Wootton John
Published: July 2010

Britain's first motorways opened just over 50 years ago, heralding a new form of efficient high-speed surface transport. They have since grown to a national network of 3500 km which now carries 37% of the UK's overland freight traffic. However, motorway development has all but ground to a halt over the past two decades and there are no plans to build any more. This paper reports on the history of the motorway-building programme in the UK and the lessons learnt by the civil engineering profession. It concludes that a new and more positive policy for national road transport is needed.
Britain’s core infrastructure is in poor condition, says ICE
Authors: Beadon Emily
Published: July 2010

The Institution of Civil Engineers’ (ICE) latest State of the Nation report has found the UK’s core infrastructure to be in poor condition. David Orr of the report steering group lays out the harsh reality about the state of the UK’s waste, transport, water, energy and flood sectors.
Managing a programme under the NEC3 ECC contract
Authors: Hide Glenn
Published: July 2010

A well thought out, detailed contractor’s programme should be used such that is a proactive management tool for both managing the works on a day-to-day basis, and a mechanism to demonstrate the effects and hence entitlement (if any) when change occurs. The NEC3 Engineering and Construction Contract (ECC) in terms of programme management is essentially a set of good practice project management requirements that, if followed, should benefit all concerned. This paper considers some of the practical problems in managing such a system and offers some practical advice to both contractor and project manager to help to ensure that the up-to-date accepted programme that the contract is striving towards becomes the reality.
Operational risk: the focus for major infrastructure?
Authors: Allport Roger James , Ward Stephen
Published: July 2010

This paper summarises findings from an Institution of Civil Engineers-funded scoping study into the importance of operational risk, the underlying risk drivers and the factors that influence its effective management. The core of the study comprised a programme of interviews undertaken in 2008 with experienced industry practitioners in four sectors: energy, transport (road and rail), material resources and waste management and water (supply and wastewater). This confirmed the central importance of operational risk, and identified issues affecting its more effective identification and management. An important conclusion is that existing practice needs to be improved substantially, by focusing on managing uncertainty (not just adverse events) with the objective of improving performance. This needs to encompass policy and business-as-usual operations and new-build project development. A wider role for civil engineers is desirable.
Fidic’s Red Book 1999 edition: a study review
Authors: Hillig Jan-Bertram , Dan-Asabe Dauda , Donyavi Sohrab , Dursun Onur , Thampuratty Anjana
Published: July 2010

The paper describes the main features of the 1999 edition of Fidic’s Red Book, possibly the most commonly used standard-form construction contract in international projects. The paper is addressed to construction professionals who already have an understanding of English construction contracts but have not yet looked into Fidic contracts. The 1999 Red Book is for use when the contractor has been given the design by the employer. The contract features general and particular conditions, the latter of which have to be drafted by the parties before the contract is entered into. A typical feature of the 1999 Red Book is the role of the engineer. Whether he has to act for the employer or whether he has to make a fair determination depends on the matter in question. There are two striking differences from the contract JCT SBC 2005 regarding claims of the contractor. First, only the 1999 Red Book contains strict time bars. Second, the clauses which contain events that justify claims are spread out over the whole contract and not contained in comprehensive lists of events. New features are clause 13.2 on value engineering and clause 20 on the impartial dispute adjudication board.
Copper Toxicity of the Cotton Plant in Solution Cultures1
Authors: Sowell W. F. , Rouse R. D. , Wear John I.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Cotton plants growing in solution culture containing a copper concentration of 0.8 ppm. or higher developed toxicity symptoms consisting of a darkened root system and loss of turgidity in the aerial parts. A copper concentration of 0.4 ppm. produced no toxic effects.

Copper accumulated in high amounts in the tip and mid portions of the roo's; whereas, only small amounts were translocated to the leaves.
Cross‐Incompatibility in Maize1
Authors: Whiteley J. R. , Thomas W. I. , Johnson I. J.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Classification of F2 and backcross populations between dent‐incompatible and dent‐compatible lines indicated in general that they possessed Gas and ga alleles respectively for incompatibility and compatibility to dent corn pollen. However, some inbreds appeared to possess alleles either differing from the type Gas and ga or possessed modifying genes which altered the dent in compatibility reaction.
Effect of Visual Selection During Inbreeding Upon Combining Ability in Corn1
Authors: Osler R. D. , Wellhausen E. J. , Palacios Gilberto
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Visual selection during successive generations of inbreeding in corn resulted in significant improvement in yield, ear appearance and plant appearance by 57%, 60% and 41%, respectively, of the 134 specific hybrid combinations. The visual selection for yield and ear appearance was more effective in introduced than in local, well‐adapted lines. For plant appaarance the visual selection was more eftective in local, well‐adapted lines.
Effect of Delayed Harvest on Quality of Soft Red Winter Wheat1
Authors: Pool Mart , Patterson Fred L. , Bode C. E.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Soft red winter wheats decreased significantly in test weight, increased significantly in kernel softness, and increased in amount of fine flour produced during milling of samples obtained over a delayed harvest period of about 45 days. Protein and ash percentages were unchanged. Small changes occurred in flour viscosities, dough miring characteristics and in cookie size and top grain.
Inheritance and Linkage of Pollen Fertility Restoration in Cytoplasmic Male‐Sterile Crosses of Corn1
Authors: Blickenstaff Joyce , Thompson D. L. , Harvey P. H.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Pollen fertility restoration in cytoplasmic male‐sterile crosses of corn was found to be due primarily to a single dominant gene (Rf) located on chromosome 3. A positive relationship was noted in some crosses between pollen fertility and plant height. Long photoperiod and possibly high temperature were concluded to have an inhibiting effect on fertility restoration of some inbreds.
Relationship Between Evapotranspiration and Yields of Crops Grown in Lysimeters Receiving Natural Rainfall1
Authors: Allison F. E. , Roller E. M. , Raney W. A.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Losses of water to the air from cropped lysimeters were greater than from bare soil, and were directly correlated with crop yields regardless of crop rotation. Efficiency of water use was favored by high‐yielding, well‐fertilized crops that kept the soil constantly covered.
Cytology and Crossing Behavior of a Haploid Alfalfa Plant1
Authors: Stanford E. H. , Clement W. M.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

In a haploid alfalfa plant arising from the California common variety meiosis was essentially regular with bivalent formation predominating. One quadrivalent appeared arising from a reciprocal translocation. Reduced gametes were rarely functional. Polyploid gametes were viable and appeared with relatively high frequency. The good pairing at metaphase would indicate that common alfalfa is essentially an autotetraploid.
Effect of Irradiation with Thermal Neutrons on Control and Vernalised Seeds of Mustard
Authors: Sen Boshi , Joshi H. C.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Irradiation of seed caused increased mortality of seedlings and diminution in lengths of their hypocotyls and roots. It did not destroy the effect of vernalization. Only 22 mutants were found in 1331 F3 progeny of irradiated seed.
Radiation‐Induced Mutations for Stem Rust Resistance in Oats1
Authors: Konzak C. F.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Resistant variants observed in earlier experiments were found to result from field hybridization. New experiments yielded variants at low frequency in one instance but none in another. One mutant showed a previously unknown temperature‐sensitive response for resistance to race 7A of Puccinia graminis avenae.
Expected Genetic Gain in Yield in Small Grain. A Geometrical Interpretation1
Authors: Grafius J. E. , Wiebe G. A.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Yield in small grain was described as a rectangular parallelepiped with edges X, Y, and Z representing the number of heads per unit area, number of kernels per head, and average kernel weight, respectively. A relatively simple tool was devised to show whether it is better to select for or increase one edge alone, or two edges, or three edges in order to give the greatest gain in volume or yield.
Evapotranspiration in Relation to the Development of the Corn Crop1
Authors: Denmead O. T. , Shaw R. H.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

The corn crop in Iowa approaches the condition of a green crop, actively growing and completely shading the ground for a period of only 2 to 3 weeks during its growing season. In this period the ratio of evapotranspiration to open pan evaporation is 0.81. Before this period the ratio increases with increasing leaf area, and afterwards declines with declining physiological activity of the crop.
The Influence of Nutrient Balance on Yield and Lodging of Texas Hybrid Corn No. 28
Authors: Fisher Flake L. , Smith Oliver E.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Soil nutrient balance had to be maintained along with at least 10,000 plants per acre to obtain good corn yields. Yield was shown to be a function of plant lodging, which was increased by nitrogen fertilization and decreased by potassium.
Toxic and Nutritional Effects of Organic Compounds on Ladino Clover Seedlings1
Authors: Routley D. G. , Sullivan J. T.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Amino acids and nucleic acid compounds were with few exceptions nontoxic to Ladino clover seedlings and served as sources of nitrogen to the seedlings. Many compounds, including alkaloids, were toxic and did not serve as sources of nitrogen.
Influence of Date of Planting on Yield and Yield Components in Grain Sorghum1
Authors: Stickler F. C. , Pauli A. W.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Significant variety, date, and variety × date interaction variances were found for grain yield and for the three components of yield. Tillers contributed differentially to total yield over planting dates and genotypes. Grain yield was significantly correlated with 2 and 3 of the yield components, respectively, in 1958 and 1959. Except for one instance, yield components were mutually independent. Leaf area and yield were not significantly correlated.
Soybean Ecology III. Soybean Development Units for Zones and Varieties in the Great Lakes Region1
Authors: Brown D. M. , Chapman L. J.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

A map is shown dividing the region into zones defined by soybean development units. The varieties commonly grown in the area are similarly defined.
A Punched Card System for Soil Scientists1
Authors: Clapp C. E. , Davis R. J. , Owens L. D.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

A general classification scheme is presented for indexing literature references for soil science and related subjects by means of punched cards. The necessary equipment is described. A code system for soil scientists is summarized and various features of its use are set forth. The advantages of the punched card technique over alternative methods are discussed.
Effect of Various Rates and Frequencies of Potassium Application on Yield and Chemical Composition of Alfalfa and Alfalfa‐Orchardgrass1
Authors: Kresge C. B. , Younts S. E.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Most efficient utilization of potassium by alfalfa and alfalfa‐orchardgrass was obtained when potassium was evenly split and applied in early spring and after the first cutting. Efficiency was reflected by (1) less applied potassium needed for maximum yield, (2) good potassium recovery by the plant, and (3) favorable distribution of potassium in the plant throughout the growing season.
Effects of Management Practices on Forage Yield and Percent Protein in Blue Panicgrass, Panicum antidotale Retz.1
Authors: Wright Neal
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Blue panicgrass forage yield and percent protein were increased by nitrogen fertilizer. Highly significant positive correlation coefficients between yield and percent protein were found. Maturity stage and clipping height significantly influenced yield. Percent protein significantly decreased as blue panicgrass matured. The soilmoisture‐stress treatments did not significantly influence yield or percent protein. Percent dry matter decreased as nitrogen level increased. Significant differences in dry matter percent were found among harvest dates and replications.
Effect of Sulfur Applied and Date of Harvest on Yield, Sulfate Sulfur Concentration, and Total Sulfur Uptake of Five Annual Grassland Species1
Authors: Jones Milton B.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

There were differences in yield, SO4‐S concentration, and total S uptake among competing species growing at different levels of available S. Yield response to S increased as the season advanced, but the concentration of total S and SO4‐S in the plants decreased. The SO4‐S concentration in each of the species where no S was applied was indicative of S deficiency. The SO4‐S concentration in subclover at flowering appeared to be the best single indicator of S status.
Effect of Plant Population and Planting Pattern of Corn on the Distribution of Net Radiation1
Authors: Yao Augustine Y. M. , Shaw R. H.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Net radiation 1 meter above the crop and 6 inches above the soil surface was measured in a corn field planted with different populations and planting patterns. The ratio of the net radiation at the ground to that above the crop showed that a higher rate of planting resulted in a lower value of the ratio. With the same population, the closer the row spacing the lower was the ratio.
Effects of Soil Moisture Regime on Yield, Nutrient Content, and Evapotranspiration for Three Annual Forage Species1
Authors: Bennett O. L. , Doss B. D. , Ashley D. A. , Kilmer V. J. , Richardson E. C.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Yields of Sudangrass, Starr millet, and Sart sorghum and evapotransipiration rates increased as available soil moisture level increased. Sart sorghum produced highest yield at all three moisture regimes. In general, nitrogen and potassium concentrations in plant tissue decreased with increasing soil moisture, but total uptake was usually higher with irrigation.
Applied and Native Soil Potassium as Affected by Drying1
Authors: Takyi Samuel K. , Caldwell A. C.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Uptake of K by sorghum from K‐treated soils increased with increasing intensity of drying. Applying K to soils before drying generally resulted in lower K adsorption by sorghum than applying K to soils after drying.
Correlation of the Tetrazolium Test with Germination Tests of Wheat Stored Under Different Conditions1
Authors: Cinki Sevim , Ching T. M.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Seed germination capacity and TZ reactive viability were found to be highly correlated in wheat with mechanical damages, insect infestation, and different storage conditions. Data indicated that a modification of TZ test procedure should be developed for canned and overly dehydrated seeds.
Estimation of Asymptotic Rotation and Nitrogen Effects1
Authors: Fuller W. A. , Cady F. B.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Time rates of change in corn yields under nitrogen fertilization in a long term experiment are estimated. The experiment includes four rotations, each containing two years of corn and from zero to three years of meadow. Three levels of nitrogen are applied to the corn in each rotation. A model is presented which is characterized by the measuring of time in terms of rotation cycles and by the assumption of an exponential approach to a limiting value.
Relative Yield and Composition of Ky. 31 Fescue and Coastal Bermudagrass at Four Nitrogen Levels1
Authors: Hallock D. L. , Brown R. H. , Blaser R. E.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Maximum yields of 3.4 and 7.9 tons per acre of Ky. 31 fescue and Coastal bermuda, respectively, were obtained on Ruston loamy fine sand fertilized with up to 800 pounds of N per acre. Near maximum yields were obtained from 200 and 400 pounds of N per acre on fescue and Coastal bermuda, respectively. Coastal bermuda produced twice as much crude protein as fescue. Severe thinning of fescue stands occurred at the 400‐ and 800‐pound rates of N. Water soluble carbohydrate was considerably lower in fescue at these high rates of N.
Reduction of Nitrogen Losses Under Irrigation by Coating Fertilizer Granules1
Authors: Heilman M. D. , Thomas J. R. , Namken L. N.
Published: July 2010

Resin‐coated and noncoated NH4NO3 fertilizers were compared on irrigated soils with free drainage.

In the greenhouse studies, coated NH4NO3 at rates of 150, 300, 600, and 1200 mg N per pot were more efficient than noncoated NH4NO3 at the same rates in increasing forage yield and N content of blue panicgrass.

Coating the fertilizer particles did not affect cabbage yields under field conditions. However, increasing the coating thickness significantly reduced the N content of the cabbage.

N uptake and cabbage yields decreased significantly as soil moisture availability decreased.

NO3− and mineralizable N levels in the soil indicated that the resinous membrane, by controlling fertilizer dissolution, reduced N leaching losses.