bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in apparent diffusion coefficients of brain metabolites between grey and white matter in the human brain measured at 7 T
Authors: Kan Hermien E. , Techawiboonwong Aranee , van Osch Matthias J. P. , Versluis Maarten J. , Deelchand Dinesh K. , Henry Pierre‐Gilles , Marjańska Małgorzata , van Buchem Mark A. , Webb Andrew G. , Ronen Itamar
Published: November 2011

Diffusion weighted spectroscopy can provide microstructural information that is specific to compartmental geometry. So far, in human brain, apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) of only the metabolites N‐acetyl aspartate, creatine (tCr) and choline (tCho) have been assessed. High field MR at 7 T allows the collection and analysis of diffusion weighted spectroscopy data of additional metabolites of interest such as glutamate (Glu), N‐acetyl aspartyl glutamate, and glutamine (Gln), which are of interest due to their different compartmentalization and role in brain physiology. In this study, we performed 1H diffusion weighted spectroscopy at 7 T using a diffusion‐weighted PRESS sequence in parietal white matter (n = 6) and occipital grey matter (n = 7). Data were analyzed using the LCmodel. ADCs could reliably be obtained of N‐acetyl aspartate, tCr, tCho, Glu, Gln in grey and white matter, and N‐acetyl aspartyl glutamate in white matter. Significant differences in ADC values were observed between grey and white matter for all metabolites. ADCs in grey matter were consistently lower than in white matter. These differences can probably be attributed to different compartmentalization as well as to the differential impact of diffusion time on ADC of different molecules under conditions of restricted diffusion. Magn Reson Med, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The influence of field strength on the apparent diffusion coefficient of 3He gas in human lungs
Authors: Parra‐Robles J. , Ajraoui S. , Marshall H. , Deppe M. H. , Xu X. , Wild J. M.
Published: November 2011

The 3He MR diffusion signal is sensitive to lung microstructure, but it is also affected by the presence of background field inhomogeneities induced by the magnetic susceptibility difference at the air‐tissue interface. These susceptibility‐induced gradients, which are dependent on field strength, have been assumed negligible in theoretical models used to extract airway morphometric information from 3He MR diffusion data at field strengths up to 4.7 T. In this work, the effect of susceptibility gradients on 3He apparent diffusion coefficient is demonstrated with experiments in healthy volunteers at two B0 field strengths: 1.5 and 3 T. Apparent diffusion coefficient values obtained at 3 T were systematically larger than at 1.5 T, demonstrating that susceptibility effects are statistically significant even at clinical field strengths (B0 ≤ 3 T) and introduce biases in the estimates of airway dimensions (e.g., mean linear intercept up to 17% larger at 3 T than 1.5 T). Susceptibility effects should be taken into account in the development of theoretical models of lung 3He MR diffusion and considered when interpreting 3He apparent diffusion coefficients obtained at different B0. Magn Reson Med, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Proteome of formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and lymph node metastases
Authors: Naidoo Kalnisha , Jones Richard , Dmitrovic Branko , Wijesuriya Nilukshi , Kocher Hemant , Hart Ian R , Crnogorac‐Jurcevic Tatjana
Published: November 2011

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a major cause of cancer‐related death, largely due to metastatic disease. To better understand PDAC metastatic spread and identify novel therapeutic targets, we analysed the proteome of primary tumours and matched lymph node (LN) metastases. As frozen specimens of metastatic lesions are scarce, we examined formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissues. This poses technical challenges because of the cross‐linkages induced by fixation. Using laser capture microdissection (PALM system), we isolated malignant epithelia from seven FFPE primary PDAC tumours and matched LN metastases. Following dissection, samples were analysed in duplicate using Multidimensional Protein Identification Technology (MudPIT); this resulted in the identification of 1504 proteins, 854 of which were common to all samples analysed. Comparison of the obtained proteins with data from previous proteomics studies on pancreatic tissue, pancreatic juice, serum, and urine resulted in a less than 30% overlap, indicating that our study has substantially expanded the current database of proteins expressed in this malignancy. Statistical analysis further showed that 115/854 proteins (13.5%) were significantly differentially expressed (g‐value ≥ 3.8). Two proteins, S100P and 14‐3‐3 sigma, with highly significant g‐values were confirmed to be significantly differentially expressed (S100P: p = 0.05 and 14‐3‐3 sigma: p < 0.001) in a larger series of 55 cases of matched primary PDAC and LN metastases using immunohistochemistry. Thus, laser capture microdissection of FFPE tissue coupled with downstream proteomic analysis is a valid approach for the investigation of metastatic PDAC. This is the first study to establish and compare the protein composition of primary PDAC and matched LN metastases, and has resulted in the identification of several potential epithelial‐specific therapeutic targets, including 14‐3‐3 sigma and S100P. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conditional deletion of Stat3 in mammary epithelium impairs the acute phase response and modulates immune cell numbers during post‐lactational regression
Authors: Hughes Katherine , Wickenden Julie A. , Allen Judith E. , Watson Christine J.
Published: November 2011

Mammary gland regression following weaning (involution) is associated with extensive cell death and the acquisition of an inflammatory signature. Characterizing the interplay between mammary epithelial cells, the re‐emerging stroma and immune cells has implications for the understanding of the pathogenesis of pregnancy‐associated breast cancer. Stat3 has a role in orchestrating cell death and involution, and we sought to determine whether expression of Stat3 by the mammary epithelium also influences the innate immune environment and inflammatory cell influx in the gland. We examined mice in which Stat3 is conditionally deleted only in the mammary epithelium. Distinct sets of genes associated with the acute phase response and innate immunity are markedly up‐regulated during first phase involution in a Stat3‐dependent manner. During second phase involution, chitinase 3‐like 1, which has been associated with wound healing and chronic inflammatory conditions, is dramatically up‐regulated by Stat3. Also at this time, the number of mammary macrophages and mast cells increases per unit area, and this increase is impaired in the absence of epithelial Stat3. Furthermore, expression of arginase‐1 and Ym1, markers of alternatively activated macrophages, is significantly decreased in the absence of Stat3, whilst iNOS, a marker associated with classically activated macrophages, shows significantly increased expression in the Stat3‐deleted glands. Thus, Stat3 is a key transcriptional regulator of genes associated with innate immunity and wound healing and influences mammary macrophage and mast cell numbers. The presence of epithelial Stat3 appears to polarize the macrophages and epithelial cells towards an alternatively activated phenotype, since in the absence of Stat3, the gland retains a phenotype associated with classically activated macrophages. These findings have relevance to the study of pregnancy‐associated breast cancer and the role of Stat3 signalling in recruitment of alternatively activated tumour‐associated macrophages in breast cancer. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
β‐Catenin determines upper airway progenitor cell fate and preinvasive squamous lung cancer progression by modulating epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: Giangreco Adam , Lu Liwen , Vickers Charles , Teixeira Vitor Hugo , Groot Karen R , Butler Colin R , Ilieva Ekaterina V , George P Jeremy , Nicholson Andrew G , Sage Elizabeth K , Watt Fiona M , Janes Sam M
Published: November 2011

Human lung cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are a leading cause of death and, whilst evidence suggests that basal stem cells drive SCC initiation and progression, the mechanisms regulating these processes remain unknown. In this study we show that β‐catenin signalling regulates basal progenitor cell fate and subsequent SCC progression. In a cohort of preinvasive SCCs we established that elevated basal cell β‐catenin signalling is positively associated with increased disease severity, epithelial proliferation and reduced intercellular adhesiveness. We demonstrate that transgene‐mediated β‐catenin inhibition within keratin 14‐expressing basal cells delayed normal airway repair while basal cell‐specific β‐catenin activation increased cell proliferation, directed differentiation and promoted elements of early epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), including increased Snail transcription and reduced E‐cadherin expression. These observations are recapitulated in normal human bronchial epithelial cells in vitro following both pharmacological β‐catenin activation and E‐cadherin inhibition, and mirrored our findings in preinvasive SCCs. Overall, the data show that airway basal cell β‐catenin determines cell fate and its mis‐expression is associated with the development of human lung cancer. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Local and regional photovoltaic power prediction for large scale grid integration: Assessment of a new algorithm for snow detection
Authors: Lorenz Elke , Heinemann Detlev , Kurz Christian
Published: November 2011

Large‐scale grid integration of photovoltaic (PV) power requires forecast information on the expected PV power for all levels of electricity supply systems. Regional PV power forecasts provide the basis for grid management and trading of PV power on the energy market. On the local scale, smart grid applications define a sector with increasing need for PV power forecasting. Here, we present and evaluate new and enhanced features of the regional PV power prediction system of the University of Oldenburg and Meteocontrol GmbH. The basic approach to predict regional PV power with an hourly resolution of up to 2 days ahead is based on global model forecasts of the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) and includes explicit physical modelling steps to convert the predicted solar irradiance into PV power. The proposed new, empirical approach aims at improving PV power predictions during periods of snow cover, where the original forecasts usually show a strong overestimation of the power production. The approach integrates measured PV power production data and additional meteorological forecast parameters. The new approach for power forecasting has been evaluated against the operational forecasts for the control area of the German transmission system operator ‘50Hertz Transmission GmbH’ for a 1‐year period. The root mean square error (rmse) of the forecasts could be reduced from 4.9% to 3.9% for intra‐day forecasts, and from 5.7% to 4.6% for day‐ahead forecasts. The largest improvement was found during January, where the rmse could be reduced by more than half by applying the proposed algorithm for snow detection. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lesser‐known prescribed and over‐the‐counter drugs of misuse
Authors: Lawson Euan
Published: November 2011

Dr Lawson highlights the problems associated with some less well‐known drugs of misuse, both prescribed and available over the counter. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Recommended management of treatment‐refractory depression
Authors: Christmas David
Published: November 2011

Our series on Prescribing challenges focuses on areas of therapeutics that can present a particular challenge in general practice. Here, the author considers the management options in treatment‐refractory depression. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Action of drugs used in lower urinary tract symptoms in men
Authors: Banham Stephen
Published: November 2011

In this short article, the author explains the mode of action of alpha‐blockers, 5‐alpha‐reductase inhibitors and antimuscarinics used in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms in men. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Pathogenesis and recommended management of acne
Authors: Seaton Edward
Published: November 2011

Acne can cause both physical and psychological problems and treatment requires an understanding of the pathogenesis of the condition. Our Drug review describes the key stages of acne progression and the recommended treatments and their properties, followed by an analysis of the prescription data and sources of further information. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Bioactivity‐guided Isolation of Antiproliferative Diterpenoids from Euphorbia kansui
Authors: Wang Hong‐Ying , Wang Jun‐Song , Wei Dan‐Dan , Wang Xiao‐Bing , Luo Jun , Yang Ming‐Hua , Kong Ling‐Yi
Published: November 2011

Cytotoxic assay guided multistep separation on the dichloromethane extract of the roots of Euphorbia kansui resulted in the isolation of 10 ingenol‐type diterpenoids (1–4 and 7–12), of which, 5‐O‐(2′E,4′E‐decadienoyl)‐20‐O‐acetylingenol (1) is a new compound, and two are jatrophane‐type diterpenoids (13–14). Interconversion of two pairs of positional ester isomers (1–4) in aqueous alcoholic solution was observed, the transesterification mechanism of which was speculated and confirmed by acylation of 3 and 4 to 6 and 5, respectively. All the isolates and the two acyl derivatives (5 and 6) were evaluated in vitro for their cytotoxicities in Bel‐7402, Bel‐7402/5FU, BGC‐823 and SGC‐7901 cell lines. The 12 ingenol‐type diterpenoids exhibited weak to moderate cytotoxicities, whereas the two jatrophane‐type diterpenoids displayed no antiproliferative effects, which, however, may increase the antitumour efficacy of those ingenol‐type diterpenoids. The structure‐–activity relationships were investigated by principal component analysis (PCA) of the pIC50 (−logIC50) values of the compounds tested and their calculated molecular descriptors. The pIC50 values were highly correlated with most descriptors, especially the highest occupied molecular orbital energy (EHOMO), absolute hardness (η) and positively charged solvent accessible surface areas (P‐ASA). As the values of EHOMO increase, η and P‐ASA decrease, and the antiproliferative effects of these compounds increase. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Ginkgo biloba Extract (GbE‐761) on the Survival of Fasciocutaneous Flaps in Rats
Authors: Sambuy Marina T. C. , da Costa Antonio C. , Cohen Carina , Chakkour Ivan
Published: November 2011

Cutaneous and fasciocutaneous flaps are used widely in the surgical reconstruction of various body segments, especially to cover exposed vital tissues. Partial or total necrosis of these flaps, secondary to insufficient tissue irrigation, is one possible complication. Therefore, investigations into antiplatelet aggregation, vasodilation and antioxidant properties are highly significant. The aim of the present study was to analyse the effect of GbE 761 on the survival of fasciocutaneous flaps in rats. For that purpose, GbE 761 was administered to 30 rats after the creation of 10 × 3 cm dorsal flaps on each animal. The rats were divided into three equal groups. GbE 761 was administered to Group A, starting immediately after surgery; Group B received it 24 h after the flap was cut; and Group C (controls) received 0.9% NaCl solution.

The average area of necrosis was 29.53% in Group A, 26.25% in Group B and 46.12% in Group C. The difference between Groups B and C was statistically significant (p = 0.026). These initial findings suggest that GbE 761 administered on day 1 after surgery reduces the percentage of necrosis in fasciocutaneous flaps, relative to not giving GbE at all. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Risk Assessment Approach: Qualification of a HVAC System in Aseptic Processing Area Using Building Management System
Authors: Shukla Anil K. , Katole Ashutosh , Jain Nilesh , Karthikeyan C. , Mehta Farhad , Trivedi Piyush
Published: November 2011

In the pharmaceutical industry qualification of HVAC systems is done by using a risk based approach. Failure mode effect analysis (FMEA) concepts were used for risk assessment of a HVAC system to determine the scope and extent of qualification and validation in this present work. The HVAC is the “direct impact” system in the aseptic practice which directly affects the product quality and regulatory compliance. The level of risk associated with the HVAC system was assessed based on the impact and severity of the probable risk in aseptic practice in sterile manufacturing. On completion of the risk assessment, control and measures developed and recommended actions for unacceptable risk were identified for improved cGMP compliance and qualification of the system upgrades. After completion of the risk assessment the recommended actions were extended and verified against the qualification stages of the HVAC system. Finally, the HVAC system was subjected to a performance qualification (PQ) study. All of the tests were performed and a report was generated. On evaluation of the data collected during PQ, it was found that the HVAC system met all the specified design criteria and complied with the entire cGMP requirement. Hence the system stands validated for PQ. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel 3D hexapod computer‐assisted orthopaedic surgery system for closed diaphyseal fracture reduction
Authors: Tang Peifu , Hu Lei , Du Hailong , Gong Minli , Zhang Lihai
Published: November 2011

Background

Long‐bone fractures are very common in trauma centers. The conventional Arbeitsgemeindschaft fur Osteosynthesefragen (AO) technique contributes to most fracture healing problems, and external fixation technology also has several disadvantages, so new techniques are being explored.

Method

A novel hexapod computer‐assisted fracture reduction system based on a 3D‐CT image reconstruction process is presented for closed reduction of long‐bone diaphyseal fractures. A new reduction technique and upgraded reduction device are described and the whole system has been validated.

Results

Ten bovine femoral fracture models were used with random fracture patterns. Tests results were as follows: residual deviation 1.24 + 0.65 mm for the axial deflection, 1.19 + 0.37 mm for the translation, 2.34 + 1.79° for the angulation, and 2.83 + 0.9° for the rotation.

Conclusion

The reduction mechanism has the advantages of high positioning, reduction and computer accuracy, and intra‐operative stability for both patients and surgical team. With further investigation, it could be applied in many kinds of long‐bone diaphyseal fractures. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interpretability and importance of functionals in competing risks and multistate models
Authors: Andersen Per Kragh , Keiding Niels
Published: November 2011

The basic parameters in both survival analysis and more general multistate models, including the competing risks model and the illness–death model, are the transition hazards. It is often necessary to supplement the analysis of such models with other model parameters, which are all functionals of the transition hazards. Unfortunately, not all such functionals are equally meaningful in practical contexts, even though they may be mathematically well defined. We have found it useful to check whether the functionals satisfy three simple principles, which may be used as criteria for practical interpretability. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radial Mechanical Properties of Single‐Walled Boron Nitride Nanotubes
Authors: Zheng Meng , Chen Xiaoming , Bae In‐Tae , Ke Changhong , Park Cheol , Smith Michael W. , Jordan Kevin
Published: November 2011

The radial mechanical properties of single‐walled boron nitride nanotubes (SW‐BNNTs) are investigated by atomic force microscopy. Nanomechanical measurements reveal the radial deformation of individual SW‐BNNTs in both elastic and plastic regimes. The measured effective radial elastic moduli of SW‐BNNTs are found to follow a decreasing trend with an increase in tube diameter, ranging from 40.78 to 1.85 GPa for tube diameters of 0.58 to 2.38 nm. The results show that SW‐BNNTs have relatively lower effective radial elastic moduli than single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). The axially strong, but radially supple characteristics suggest that SW‐BNNTs may be superior to SWCNTs as reinforcing additives for nanocomposite applications.
Facile and Large‐Scale Fabrication of Anisometric Particles from Fibers Synthesized by Colloid‐Electrospinning
Authors: Friedemann Kathrin , Corrales Tomas , Kappl Michael , Landfester Katharina , Crespy Daniel
Published: November 2011

A new top‐down approach is proposed to form large amounts of anisometric particles. Multicompartment fibers that present different domains composed of silica nanoparticles and larger polystyrene nanoparticles are fabricated by colloid‐electrospinning and are subsequently calcinated and broken. The obtained fibers containing voids are subsequently cut via sonication to yield anisometric particles. It is shown that the majority of the fibers can be broken at the voids.
The multiple quality models paradox: how much ‘best practice’ is just enough?
Authors: Heston Keith M. , Phifer William
Published: November 2011

Today, several dozen global, national, and industry‐specific standards compete for attention in the industry. Most companies have limited experience in implementing new quality models and few have experts across multiple quality model domains. For most organizations, the number of standards is excessive and unnecessary. Instead, organizations need a straightforward framework that establishes a systematic, value‐added, and effective governance structure and delivery mechanism based on industry‐accepted business process management principles. They need to do this without having to subscribe explicitly to many different models, standards, and best practices.

This paper looks at several key industry standards (ISO 9001, CMMI, ITIL, ISO 27001, eSCM‐SP, Six Sigma) and uses the concept of ‘process DNA’ and ‘Quality Genes’ to analyze the key concepts contained in these standards. The Q‐Genes are then used as the basis to explore several organizational archetypes and how different types of organizations can effectively take advantage of the principles in these standards, while limiting unnecessary and redundant effort.

This paper recognizes the value of having processes that are drawn from widely accepted and proven quality models. However, it also seeks to find a suitable balance between process maturity and excessive complexity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PXRF and multivariate statistics analysis of pre‐colonial pottery from northeast of Brazil
Authors: Ikeoka R. A. , Appoloni C. R. , Parreira P. S. , Lopes F. , Bandeira A. M.
Published: November 2011

Portable system of energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence was used to determine the elemental composition of 68 pottery fragments from ‘Sambaqui do Bacanga’, an archeological site in São Luis, Maranhão, Brazil. This site was occupied from 6600 BP until 900 BP. By determining the element chemical composition of those fragments, it was possible to verify the existence of engobe in 43 pottery fragments. Obtained from two‐dimensional graphs and hierarchical cluster analysis performed in fragments of stratigraphies from surface and 113‐cm level, and 10 to 20, 132 and 144‐cm level, it was possible to group these fragments in five distinct groups, according to their stratigraphies. The results of data grouping (two‐dimensional graphics) are in agreement with hierarchical cluster analysis by Ward method. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk Factors for Prolonged Postoperative Ileus After Colorectal Cancer Surgery
Authors: Millan Monica , Biondo Sebastiano , Fraccalvieri Domenico , Frago Ricardo , Golda Thomas , Kreisler Esther
Published: November 2011

Background

The aim of this study was to analyze factors contributing to prolonged postoperative ileus (POI) after elective bowel resection in patients with colorectal cancer.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of patients operated on for colorectal cancer during 2006–2009. Patients with abdominal procedures and bowel resection without anastomotic leakage were included. Prolonged POI was defined as no flatus by postoperative day (POD) 6, with or without intolerance to oral intake by POD 6. Variables studied included demographics, prior medical conditions, details of the surgical procedure, and hospital stay.

Results

A total of 773 patients met the inclusion criteria. POI occurred in 15.9%. The mean hospital stay was 11 days without POI and 20 days for POI patients (P < 0.001). Factors associated with POI in the univariate analysis were ASA III–IV (P < 0.005), male sex (P < 0.004), smoking (P < 0.015), chronic pulmonary disease (COPD) (P < 0.002), rectal cancer (P < 0.02), and ileostomy (P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed male sex [odds ratio (OR) 1.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04–3.5]; COPD (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.25–31.0), and ileostomy (OR 1.9; 95% CI 1.23–3.07) as risk factors for POI.

Conclusions

The risk of POI seems increased in patients with preoperative COPD and patients with an ileostomy, especially in men. Consideration of these factors could be important for the prevention and treatment of POI.
Characteristics of Sleep Disturbance in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Patel Jay N. , McCabe Steven J. , Myers John
Published: November 2011

Background

Sleep disturbance is common in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), and we hypothesize that it has an important impact on the quality of life of CTS patients. The characteristic of sleep problems associated with CTS has not been evaluated.

Methods

We performed a case-control study to measure the association between a variety of sleep disturbances and CTS. Sixty-two cases with clinically diagnosed CTS and a probable or classic hand diagram were compared to 138 primary care patients without CTS. In addition to demographic features, we collected the nature of sleep disturbance experienced by the patients from a categorical list and the nature, impact, and severity of sleep disturbance using the Insomnia Severity Index.

Results

Patients with CTS complained of significantly more severe problems with sleep than the control population and had multiple sleep complaints compared to the control group. Sixty-three of the 138 control patients indicated that they had one cause of sleeping disturbance with no control patient choosing more than one. In contrast, in CTS patients, 44 of 63 patients indicated they had two or more causes of sleep disturbance. The Insomnia Severity Index was significantly higher in CTS patients and the impact of sleep disturbance on quality of life was higher in the cases.

Conclusion

Sleep disturbance in CTS patients is characterized by a broad array of physical symptoms that have a significant impact on quality of life.
The Subprime Mortgage Calamity and the African American Woman
Authors: Phillips Sandra
Published: November 2011

Many media and scholarly reports have focused on the subprime mortgage crisis and the resultant global financial meltdown. Most of the literature notes unequivocally that discrimination in the mortgage market has been, and remains, race-based and that it has damaged the African-American population disproportionately. This paper discusses the consequences of the subprime mortgage calamity and its negative impact on the Black community, women in general, and African-American women in particular. After controlling for individual, credit and housing characteristics, research shows that disparities in lending have persisted. Studies indicate that 63% of those given subprime mortgages qualified for prime mortgages. African-American females received the most high-cost loans and were over twice as likely to be given a subprime mortgage compared to White females. Moreover, African-American women were five times more likely to have received a subprime loan than similarly situated White males. Upper-income Black women were more often targeted for high-cost loans than lower-income women of color. As a result, the subprime mortgage crisis has precipitated an enormous loss of home equity and wealth among African-Americans that will affect generations to come.
An α-lactalbumin-enriched and symbiotic-supplemented v. a standard infant formula: a multicentre, double-blind, randomised trial
Authors: Rozé Jean-Christophe , Barbarot Sébastien , Butel Marie-José , Kapel Nathalie , Waligora-Dupriet Anne-Judith , De Montgolfier Inès , Leblanc Magali , Godon Nathalie , Soulaines Pascale , Darmaun Dominique , Rivero Montserrat , Dupont Christophe
Published: November 2011

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety, tolerance and preventive effect on atopic dermatitis of an experimental α-lactalbumin-enriched and symbiotic-supplemented infant formula. A total of ninety-seven non-breastfed term neonates were enrolled into a double-blind, multicentre, randomised controlled trial in which they received experimental (n 48) or standard formula (n 49) for 6 months. The primary outcome was weight at 6 months of age. Secondary outcomes were gastrointestinal tolerance and manifestation of atopic dermatitis. Faecal secretory IgA (SIgA) concentration and microbiota composition of forty-three infants were analysed at 1 and 6 months. Growth was similar in both groups. At 1 month, compared to those in the control group, infants in the experimental group exhibited less crying or agitation, and more quiet behaviour (P = 0·03). At 6 months, atopic dermatitis was less frequently observed in the experimental group (P < 0·05). Decrease of faecal SIgA concentration between 1 and 6 months was mainly observed in the control group. This decrease was significantly associated with atopic dermatitis (P < 0·014) and negatively correlated to the level of colonisation by bifidobacteria (P < 0·005). In conclusion, compared to the control formula, the experimental formula guaranteed a similar growth, was better tolerated at 1 month and had a protective effect against the development of atopic dermatitis.
Climate change and land suitability for potato production in England and Wales: impacts and adaptation
Authors: DACCACHE A. , KEAY C. , JONES R. J. A. , WEATHERHEAD E. K. , STALHAM M. A. , KNOX J. W.
Published: November 2011

The viability of commercial potato production is influenced by spatial and temporal variability in soils and agroclimate, and the availability of water resources where supplementary irrigation is required. Soil characteristics and agroclimatic conditions greatly influence the cultivar choice, agronomic husbandry practices and the economics of production. Using the latest (UKCP09) scenarios of climate change for the UK, the present paper describes a methodology using pedo-climatic functions and a geographical information system (GIS) to model and map current and future land suitability for potato production in England and Wales. The outputs identify regions where rainfed production is likely to become limiting and where future irrigated production would be constrained due to shortages in water availability. The results suggest that by the 2050s, the area of land that is currently well or moderately suited for rainfed production would decline by 88 and 74%, respectively, under the ‘most likely’ climate projections for the low emissions scenario and by 95 and 86%, respectively, for the high emissions scenario, owing to increased likelihood of dry conditions. In many areas, rainfed production would become increasingly risky. However, with supplementary irrigation, c. 0·85 of the total arable land in central and eastern England would remain suitable for production, although most of this is in catchments where water resources are already over-licensed and/or over-abstracted; the expansion of irrigated cropping is thus likely to be constrained by water availability. The increase in the volume of water required due to the switch from rainfed- to irrigated-potato cropping is likely to be much greater than the incremental increase in water demand solely on irrigated potatoes. The implications of climate change on the potato industry, the adaptation options and responses available, and the uncertainty associated with the land suitability projections, are discussed.
The Market for Bank Stocks and the Rise of Deposit Banking in New York City, 1866–1897
Authors: ROUSSEAU PETER L.
Published: November 2011

The rapid growth of deposits in New York over the late nineteenth century is often attributed to the release of pent-up demand for transactions services. I advance a complementary explanation that emphasizes the market for bank shares. The stock market was important because it generated quotations that signaled depositors about the condition of individual banks as innovations in banking practices allowed confidence to grow. A new database of prices, dividends, and balance sheet items for traded banks and a series of dynamic panel models show that fluctuations in bank prices influenced the course of the expansion.
On the Scope and Drivers of the Asset Growth Effect
Authors: Lipson Marc L. , Mortal Sandra , Schill Michael J.
Published: November 2011

Recent papers have debated whether the negative correlation between measures of firm asset growth and subsequent returns is of little importance since it applies only to small firms, is justified as compensation for risk, or is evidence of mispricing. We show that the asset growth effect is pervasive, and evidence to the contrary arises due to specification choices; that one measure of asset growth, the change in total assets, largely subsumes the explanatory power of other measures; that the ability of asset growth to explain either the cross section of returns or the time series of factor loadings is linked to firm idiosyncratic volatility (IVOL); that the return effect is concentrated around earnings announcements; and that analyst forecasts are systematically higher than realized earnings for faster growing firms. In general, there appears to be no asset growth effect in firms with low IVOL. Our findings are consistent with a mispricing-based explanation for the asset growth effect in which arbitrage costs allow the effect to persist.
Oral oocyst-induced mouse model of toxoplasmosis: effect of infection withToxoplasma gondiistrains of different genotypes, dose, and mouse strains (transgenic, out-bred, in-bred) on pathogenesis and mortality
Authors: DUBEY J. P. , FERREIRA L. R. , MARTINS J. , McLEOD RIMA
Published: November 2011

Humans and other hosts acquireToxoplasma gondiiinfection by ingesting tissue cysts in undercooked meat, or by food or drink contaminated with oocysts. Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent clinical disease due this parasite in humans, although, variousT. gondiivaccine candidates are being developed. Mice are generally used to test the protective efficacy of vaccines because they are susceptible, reagents are available to measure immune parameters in mice, and they are easily managed in the laboratory. In the present study, pathogenesis of toxoplasmosis was studied in mice of different strains, including Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) transgenic mice infected with different doses ofT. gondiistrains of different genotypes derived from several countries. Based on many experiments, the decreasing order of infectivity and pathogenicity of oocysts was: C57BL/6 background interferon gamma gene knock out (KO), HLA-A*1101, HLA-A*0201, HLA-B*0702, Swiss Webster, C57/black, and BALB/c. Mice fed as few as 1 oocyst of Type I and several atypical strains died of acute toxoplasmosis within 21 days p.i. Some Type II, and III strains were less virulent. The model developed herein should prove to be extremely useful for testing vaccines because it is possible to accurately quantitate a challenge inoculum, test the response to different strains ofT. gondiiusing the same preparations of oocysts which are stable for up to a year, and to have highly reproducible responses to the infection.
On systems-disconjugacy and a question of Barrett
Authors: Edelson Allan , Kreith Kurt
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

In answer to a question raised by John Barrett in 1961, conditions are established under which the existence of a systems-conjugate point of a fourth-order equation also assures the existence of a 2–2 conjugate point. These results lead to new conjugacy criteria and apply to certain non-selfadjoint equations more general than those previously considered.
Semigroups and rings
Authors: Dubreil Paul
Published: November 2011

In a previous publication [1] we considered the structure of a fragmented ring and of its multiplicative semigroup. In the present publication we consider, in a purely semigroup-theoretic context, some ideas related to those in [1]. As shown by an example, the semigroups we consider need not be the multiplicative semigroup of a ring.
Fragmented rings
Authors: Dubreil Paul
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

The publication of the results in this paper has been delayed, for non-mathematical reasons. However, the author has given lectures on these results in Smolenice [2], Gainesville, Tulane. Riverside (1971), Milan (1972) and in Paris. The main consideration in this paper is the notion of a fragmented ring and its multiplicative semigroup. A fragmented ring is a ring with an identity having a finite set of idempotents, these commuting and therefore being central. In a subsequent paper we shall consider associated ideas in a purely semigroup-theoretic context and, in so doing, point out some differences between general semigroups and those semigroups that are the multiplicative semigroups of rings.
Bounds for the point spectrum for a Sturm-Liouville equation
Authors: Atkinson F. V. , Everitt W. N.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

This paper obtains, under certain general conditions on the coefficient q, a best-possible upper bound on the real parameter λ for the differential equation

to have a non-trivial solution in the integrable-square space L2 (a, ∞).
Dirichlet and separation results for Schrödinger-type operators
Authors: Evans W. D. , Zettl A.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

Conditions are obtained which ensure that the maximal operator generated by the formally self-adjoint second-order differential expression

in L2(Rn), n ≥ 1 has the Dirichlet and separation properties.
Über das Verhalten der Lösung des Dirichletproblems am Rand des Gebietes, wenn der Rand zur KlasseC2αgehört
Authors: König Manfred
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

In this paper the boundary behaviour of the solution of Dirichlet's problem for the equation Δu=fin domains withC2,α-boundary is studied. Without using Schauder's a priori estimates, we prove the following theorem, which is indispensable in Schauder's method to solve Dirichlet's problem for a general linear elliptic equation.

Theorem: Let (f, g)∈ C0,α(Ḡ)×C2,α(∂G) and u ∈ C0.0(Ḡ) ∩C2,α(G) be a solution of the problem Δu = f, u|∂G = g. Then u ∈ C2,α(Ḡ).
Eine kritische Bemerkung zu Darstellungen der Schauderschen Beweistechnik für elliptische lineare Differentialgleichungen
Authors: König Manfred
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

The object of this paper is to demonstrate, that with the open mapplng theorem of S.Banach one can prove very easily the following estimate

for all u ∈ C2,α and 0 ≤ t ≤ 1, if one knows, that for all bounded G ⊂ Rn, with boundary ∂G ∈ C2,α and for all (f, g) ∈ C0,α × C2,α (∂G) Dirichle's problem Δu = f, u|∂G = g has a solution u ∈ C2,α. This estimate can be used to solve Dirichle's problem for a general linear elliptic equation by Schauder's method.
Padé approximant bounds on the positive solutions of some nonlinear elliptic equations
Authors: Barnsley M. F. , Bessis D.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

We consider the equation Lφ − λpφ + γqφ2 = f on a bounded domain in Rn with homogeneous Neumann-Dirichlet boundary conditions. L is a negative definite uniformly elliptic differential operator, while, p, q and f are positive functions. We show that there exists exactly one positive solution for each λ ∈ R and γ > 0. This solution can be analytically continued throughout Re γ > 0: it is a Laplace transform of a positive measure. The measure is bounded prior to the bifurcation point of the associated “homogeneous” equation and unbounded after. Noting that any Laplace transform of positive measure has associated with it a natural sequence of Tchebycheff systems, it now follows that one can obtain monotonically converging upper and lower bounds which are provided by the generalized Padé approximants generated from the Tchebycheff systems.
Limit circle classification and boundedness of solutions
Authors: Neuman F.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

Using an algebraic approach to the nth order linear differential equations (see [3] forn= 2 and [13and14] forn≧ 2) it is shown the essence of the relation between the limit circle classification and boundedness of solutions ofy″ =q(t)y. On this example it is demonstrated that if a problem can be formulated in the rank of the approach, then it is only a technical matter to answer it, e.g. the relationship studied here is based on a standard fact from the theory of functions.
The Hankel transform of some classes of generalized functions and connections with fractional integration
Authors: McBride Adam C.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

In previous papers [11,12,13], certain spaces of generalized functions were studied from the point of view of fractional calculus. In this paper, we show how a Hankel transform Hv of order v can be defined on for all complex numbers v except for those lying on a countable number of lines of the form Re v = constant in the complex v-plane. The mapping properties of Hv on are obtained. Various connections between Hv (or modifications of Hv) and operators of fractional integration are examined.
Direct summands inl-groups
Authors: Miller John Boris
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

We discuss convexl-subgroups of anl-groupGin their role as direct summands, not so much ofGas of each other. This is done by writingA≥dBfor subgroupsA, Bto mean thatAis a direct summand ofB, and studying the properties of the resulting poset. It is shown to be a hypolattice, that is, to have local lattice properties in a certain sense. However it need not be a lattice; and there may exist meets of pairs of elements, outside the hypolattice structure. It need not be conditionally complete even whenGis conditionally complete. We look also at the map which sends a subgroup to its lattice-closure; the lattice-closed subgroups also form a hypolattice. Our main result asserts that this hypolattice is conditionally complete ifGis. The paper ends with some examples and counter examples inC(X).
A Bessel function inequality
Authors: Rawlins A. D.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

This paper proves some inequalities for the imaginary part of the transcendental function in a simply connected sector of the complex z-plane, where 0 < v < 1, and part of the boundary depends on v. These inequalities arose in a work of Everitt and Jones [1] which was on a general integral inequality. We give an alternative method of proving these Bessel function inequalities.
A generalization of M. G. Krein's method of directing functional to linear relations
Authors: Langer H. , Textorius B.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

M. G. Krein's method of directing functional is generalized in a straight-forward way to symmetric linear relations. Applications to Stieltjes differential boundary problems are indicated.
Deficiency zero groups involving Fibonacci and Lucas numbers
Authors: Campbell C. M. , Robertson E. F.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

Two closely related classes X(n) and Y(n) of two generator two relation groups are studied. The group presentations arise from an investigation of a Fibonacci type group of order 1512. The Reidemeister-Schreier algorithm is used to show that the groups X(n) are finite and not metabelian. The orders of these groups are determined and shown to be divisible by powers of Fibonacci numbers or by powers of Lucas numbers. In addition these groups add to the relatively few examples of non-metabelian two generator two relation groups whose orders are known precisely.
On the structure of morphism near-rings
Authors: Meldrum J. D. P.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

The connection between the structure of a near-ring and that of the group on which it acts is used to obtain results concerning the structure of near-rings. A generalized R series is defined for an R module, where R is a zero-symmetric left near-ring, and it is shown that all R modules have maximal R series. The idea of a near-ring which annihilates a series is introduced and some easy consequences of the definition are pointed out. Semi-primitive near-rings are introduced and a general structural result connecting the last two ideas is given. Some special cases which generalize earlier results on endomorphism near-rings are stated. Finally some of the limitations of the idea of semi-primitive near-rings are shown, and some applications are given, in particular to the endomorphism near-rings of soluble groups and of the symmetric groups.
Idempotent generators in finite full transformation semigroups
Authors: Howie J. M.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

It was proved by Howie in 1966 that , the semigroup of all singular mappings of a finite set X into itself, is generated by its idempotents. Implicit in the method of proof, though not formally stated, is the result that if |X| = n then the n(n – 1) idempotents whose range has cardinal n – 1 form a generating set for. Here it is shown that if n ≧ 3 then a minimal set M of idempotent generators for contains ½n(n–1) members. A formula is given for the number of distinct sets M.
The Schrödinger equation as a singular perturbation problem
Authors: de Jager E. M. , Küpper T.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

Comparisons have been made of the eigenvalues and the corresponding eigenfunctions of the eigenvalue problems

and

with φ ∈ C(-∞, +∞) and 0≦φ(x)≦C|x|i+1(1+|x|1), −∞<x<+∞ where i and l are arbitrary positive numbers with i≧2k≧2, k integer. In first approximation the eigenvalues λ and λ− and the corresponding eigenfunctions ψ and ψ are the same for ε→0; the error decreases whenever the exponent i increases.
On the non-regularity of tangent sphere bundles
Authors: Blair David E.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

Classically the tangent sphere bundles have formed a large class of contact manifolds; their contact structures are not in general regular, however. Specifically we prove that the natural contact structure on the tangent sphere bundle of a compact Riemannian manifold of non-positive constant curvature is not regular.
The initial value problem for a nonlinear semi-infinite string
Authors: Dickey R. W.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

The existence of a classical solution to the initial boundary value problem for a semi-infinite extensible string is proved. The result is obtained by using a Galerkin procedure on a semi-infinite interval.
Variational method for the Hartree equation of the helium atom
Authors: Bader Peter
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

It is shown that in the Hartree approximation the energy functional of the helium atom reaches its minimum and that the corresponding minimizing function is a solution of the Hartree equation.
On the definition of the absolute temperature—a reconciliation of the classical method with that of Carathéodory
Authors: Walter Johann
Published: November 2011

In this paper a combination is given of the two methods mentioned in the title with the aim of optimising the definition of the absolute temperature with respect to physical transparency and mathematical simplicity. The mathematical tools used are the elements of vector analysis, i.e. “usual” mathematics (“normale” Mathematik) in the sense of Born [1, p. 162, cf. also 22, p. 579].