bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Akt is required for Stat5 activation and mammary differentiation
Authors: Chen Chien-Chung , Boxer Robert B , Stairs Douglas B , Portocarrero Carla P , Horton Rachel H , Alvarez James V , Birnbaum Morris J , Chodosh Lewis A
Published: September 2010

Introduction

The Akt pathway plays a central role in regulating cell survival, proliferation and metabolism, and is one of the most commonly activated pathways in human cancer. A role for Akt in epithelial differentiation, however, has not been established. We previously reported that mice lacking Akt1, but not Akt2, exhibit a pronounced metabolic defect during late pregnancy and lactation that results from a failure to upregulate Glut1 as well as several lipid synthetic enzymes. Despite this metabolic defect, however, both Akt1-deficient and Akt2-deficient mice exhibit normal mammary epithelial differentiation and Stat5 activation.

Methods

In light of the overlapping functions of Akt family members, we considered the possibility that Akt may play an essential role in regulating mammary epithelial development that is not evident in Akt1-deficient mice due to compensation by other Akt isoforms. To address this possibility, we interbred mice bearing targeted deletions in Akt1 and Akt2 and determined the effect on mammary differentiation during pregnancy and lactation.

Results

Deletion of one allele of Akt2 in Akt1-deficient mice resulted in a severe defect in Stat5 activation during late pregnancy that was accompanied by a global failure of terminal mammary epithelial cell differentiation, as manifested by the near-complete loss in production of the three principal components of milk: lactose, lipid, and milk proteins. This defect was due, in part, to a failure of pregnant Akt1
-/-
;Akt2
+/-
mice to upregulate the positive regulator of Prlr-Jak-Stat5 signaling, Id2, or to downregulate the negative regulators of Prlr-Jak-Stat5 signaling, caveolin-1 and Socs2.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate an unexpected requirement for Akt in Prlr-Jak-Stat5 signaling and establish Akt as an essential central regulator of mammary epithelial differentiation and lactation.
NO PRIDE IN OCCUPATION
Authors: Hochberg Gil Z. , Maikey Haneen , Rima  , Saraya Samira
Published: September 2010

One of the most important contributions of this special issue of GLQ is the forum for three queer Palestinian activists to speak about the complexity of their identities and politics. In this roundtable conversation, these activists make clear that while they do not speak for all Palestinian LGBTQs, and that they do not necessarily agree among themselves on strategies or details (the women's rights approach of Aswat is different from the queer activism of Al-Qaws), they do succeed in laying out the major challenges facing their work and the strategies they employ to address them. Most central among these challenges is the need to forge a queer agenda in the context of military occupation and state-governed racism.
IS QUEER SECULAR?
Authors: Gold Thea
Published: September 2010

Netalie Braun's short film Gevald (2008) is a lesbian love story set in a diverse Jerusalem drag club, against a backdrop of local Orthodox Jewish antigay protests. While the film portrays queerness as secularist, its portrayal of the complexities inherent in the intertwining conflicts in the Holy City ends up telling a more complicated story.
Stereoselective Synthesis of 3-(1-Cyanoalkylidene)oxindoles by Palladium-catalyzed Cyclization Reaction of 2-(Alkynyl)aryl Isocyanates with Copper(I) Cyanide
Authors: Miura Tomoya , Toyoshima Takeharu , Kozawa Osamu , Murakami Masahiro
Published: September 2010

A palladium-catalyzed cyclization reaction of 2-(alkynyl)aryl isocyanates with copper(I) cyanide provides an efficient method for the stereoselective synthesis of (Z)-configured 3-(1-cyanoalkylidene)oxindoles.
National audit of asymptomatic screening in UK genitourinary medicine clinics: clinic policies audit
Authors: Carne C A , McClean H , Sullivan A K , Menon-Johansson A , Gokhale R , Sethi G , Mammen-Tobin A G , Daniels D
Published: September 2010

Of clinics responding to the audit, 99 and 97% have policies that are compliant with the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV National Guidelines for testing of asymptomatic men and women for HIV and syphilis, respectively. All clinics offer men, and all but one clinic offer women, screening for chlamydial infection with nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), as recommended by the guidelines. However, for gonorrhoea screening one-third of clinics offer men urine or urethral NAATs, and one quarter of clinics offer women endocervical, vulvovaginal or urinary NAATs, and not endocervical culture, and these practices are not compliant with the guidelines. Eight clinics did not specify whether they routinely offer testing for gonorrhoea in women. One-third of clinics routinely perform rectal and oropharyngeal screening for gonorrhoea in men who have sex with men (MSM), but fewer screen for chlamydia, regardless of sexual history which is stated as a determinant of offering screening at these anatomical sites. Finally, one-fifth of clinics offer urethral microscopy to asymptomatic heterosexual men and MSM, and about one half of clinics offer urethral culture for detection of gonorrhoea in asymptomatic women, even though these practices are not compliant with the guidelines.
Audit of partner notification for chlamydia infection in the genitourinary medicine clinic at the University Hospital of Hartlepool: 2004–2008
Authors: Tayal S C , Ochogwu S A , Crindon S
Published: September 2010

Partner notification is essential for the control of chlamydia infection, which is on the rise. The aim of this study was to assess the performance of partner notification for chlamydia infection in the genitourinary medicine clinic at the University Hospital of Hartlepool, UK from 2004 to 2008. Overall 1.37 partners were declared per index patient, with male patients declaring 1.59 partners and female patients declaring 1.19 partners. For each chlamydia index patient 0.52 partners were screened (38 per cent of declared partners). Fifty-seven percent of the screened patients were positive for chlamydia and this increased from 33% in 2004 to 66% in 2008. The number of index cases needed to interview to get a new positive chlamydia was 3.37 over the study period and varied from 6.74 in 2004 to 2.74 in 2008. This audit highlights the need to improve partner notification for chlamydia infection.
An unusual and unsettling place for a worm
Authors: Samuel M I , Taylor C
Published: September 2010

A 56-year-old man presented complaining of urinary frequency, passing urine eight times per day, urethral irritation and dysuria. Investigations showed no evidence of urinary tract infection or sexually transmitted infections. Three months later he presented, again complaining of increased urinary frequency and urethral irritation. He brought with him a urine specimen containing a small ‘worm’, 2 mm in length, identified as a drain fly (or moth fly) larva, of the genus Psychoda (dipterous flies). Psychoda lay eggs in organically polluted water such as sewage plants, sink drains or on decaying vegetables and fruits. Urogenital myiasis may arise from hatching of larvae near the urethral opening and ascending migration along the urethra with consequent urethritis. Following larval identification, ivermectin was prescribed and the man's symptoms improved after six weeks.
An unusual testicular lump
Authors: de Silva A , Lee J D , Macdonald I W C , Shekhar C
Published: September 2010

A 32-year-old British Asian man presented with what appeared clinically and on ultrasound to be a testicular tumour. However, syphilis serology, histology and detection of Treponema pallidum DNA by polymerase chain reaction confirmed that the lesion was a gumma. Without routine syphilis serology, the correct diagnosis may have been missed.
Aetiological agents of urethritis in symptomatic South African men attending a family practice
Authors: Le Roux M C , Ramoncha M R , Adam A , Hoosen A A
Published: September 2010

The objective was to determine the occurrence of four urethral pathogens in urine specimens from symptomatic men using transcription mediated amplification (TMA) assay. Urethral swab and urine specimens from 300 men presenting to a family practitioner were Gram stained and tested for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis and Mycoplasma genitalium using three TMA assays respectively. Except for T. vaginalis, the other recognized pathogens viz. N. gonorrhoeae, C. trachomatis and M. genitalium were detected in significantly larger numbers of patients with urethral discharge than in those with burning on micturition (BOM). The overall prevalences were 16.7% for N. gonorrhoeae, 12.3% C. trachomatis, 8.0% T. vaginalis and 17.3% M. genitalium. With regard to microscopic evidence of urethritis, significant associations were found for N. gonorrhoeae and C. trachomatis, but not for M. genitalium and T. vaginalis. This study demonstrated that in symptomatic men attending family practice, M. genitalium and T. vaginalis are also important aetiological agents of urethritis and hence treatment strategies be they syndromic management or laboratory directed should cover for these causative agents. The microscopic diagnosis of urethritis may not be important for treatment strategies. The current syndromic treatment guidelines for developing countries including South Africa need modification.
The fear factor: drivers and barriers to follow-up screening for human papillomavirus-related anal cancer in men who have sex with men
Authors: Truesdale M D , Goldstone S E
Published: September 2010

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-related anal cancer incidence is rising in men who have sex with men (MSM). Effective screening strategies exist, but many patients are lost to follow-up (LTF). We studied factors impacting screening compliance to recommended annual screening visits. Retrospective chart review identified MSM with anal dysplasia. MSM were grouped as regular screeners (regular to follow-up [RF]) (≥1 visit/year), lost to follow-up (LTF) (>1 year since previous screening) and LTF who then returned for screening (lost came back [LCB]). From June 2007 to March 2008, subjects completed a questionnaire in-person at the time of screening or via telephone (LTF). Questionnaires were completed after anal dysplasia diagnosis. One hundred and ninety-five MSM were enrolled (96 RF, 50 LTF and 49 LCB). RF were compliant for 4.8 years; LTF were lost for 2.3 years. LCB were previously lost for 5.6 years before returning. Mean knowledge score of screening procedures was larger in RF versus LTF ( P < 0.001). MSM with more sexual partners in the past six months were more likely to be LCB versus LTF ( P = 0.05). RF were more likely to describe their HPV diagnosis as ‘upsetting’ ( P = 0.003). RF were more likely driven by physical symptoms versus LTF ( P = 0.002). MSM with high-grade intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) were more likely to be RF versus those with low-grade intraepithelial lesions (P = 0.001. Positive predictors for screening compliance include an upsetting experience during the HPV diagnosis, physical symptoms driving the initial visit and HSIL. Engaging patients in a firm, salient approach may facilitate follow-up compliance.
Severe septic-shock like reaction to co-trimoxazole in an HIV-positive man
Authors: Scourfield A , Tan L K K , Nelson M
Published: September 2010

Adverse drug reactions occur at a greater frequency in HIV-infected individuals. A 38-year-old Eritrean man was treated with outpatient co-trimoxazole for confirmed Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, but was switched to clindamycin and primaquine due to nausea and vomiting. Following development of methaemaglobinaemia, he was recommenced on prophylactic co-trimoxazole. He was later found moribund with features resembling septic shock and required invasive respiratory support. The diagnosis of a rare, but severe reaction to co-trimoxazole did not become apparent until he was rechallenged with prophylactic co-trimoxazole after recovery from his initial severe reaction. In an era of polypharmacy and an increasing availability of novel drugs, this case is a timely reminder to clinicians of the ongoing need for pharmacovigilance, especially in HIV-infected individuals who may have unusual presentations of an adverse drug reaction.
Multicity HIV seroprevalence in street youth, Ukraine
Authors: Robbins C L , Zapata L , Kissin D M , Shevchenko N , Yorick R , Skipalska H , Finnerty E , Ornstein T , Marchbanks P A , Jamieson D J , Hillis S D
Published: September 2010

We conducted the first systematic, community-based, multicity assessment outside the USA of HIV seroprevalence, risk factors and linkage into clinical services among 929 street youth. After city-wide mapping, we used time-location sampling and randomly selected 74 venues in Odesa, Kyiv and Donetsk, Ukraine. Rapid HIV testing with post-test counselling was offered to all eligible youths aged 15–24 years. Overall, 18.4% (95% confidence interval 16.2–20.2) were HIV positive and 85% had previously unknown status. Rates were identical by sex. Subgroups with highest rates included orphans (26%), youths with histories of exchanging sex (35%), sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (37%), injection drug use (IDU) (42%) and needle sharing (49%). Independent predictors, similar across age groups and city, included being orphaned, time on the street, history of anal sex, STIs, exchanging sex, any drug use, IDU and needle sharing. Two-thirds (68%) of HIV-positive youths were linked to services. This high-risk population has many immediate needs.
Development of occult hepatitis B viral infection in pregnancy: implications for antenatal screening in women from endemic areas
Authors: Chang Philip , Tu Jeffrey , Chesterman Antony , Kim Robert , Robertson Peter , Rawlinson William D , Riordan Stephen M
Published: September 2010

Occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, manifest clinically by the presence of HBV deoxyribonucleic acid (HBV DNA) in peripheral blood in individuals who test negative for the HBV surface antigen (HBsAg), may occur in various clinical contexts, including under the influence of pharmacological immunosuppression in patients from areas endemic for HBV and, hence, at risk of previous exposure. Pregnancy is a condition associated with immune suppression, but whether virus-specific immunity may be suppressed to an extent sufficient to allow occult HBV infection to develop is currently unknown. This is potentially relevant not only to the mother's health but also because vertical transmission has been reported in the occult HBV infection setting. We report a 30-year-old woman from a country endemic for HBV who, prior to pregnancy, was persistently HBsAg-negative with undetectable HBV DNA in peripheral blood, in whom HBV DNA became increasingly detectable during pregnancy, peaking in the third trimester, before returning to undetectable levels postpartum. HBsAg remained negative and liver function tests were normal throughout. Immunoglobulin M hepatitis B core antibody, a marker of the possibility of acquisition of a new HBV infection, was also negative. The baby received immunization against HBV infection from birth and has remained HBV negative at six months. This report documents for the first time that occult HBV infection may develop during pregnancy. Further data are required regarding the prevalence of this phenomenon, predisposing factors, impact on maternal health and risk of vertical transmission so that implications for current antenatal screening strategies that do not include measurement of HBV DNA in peripheral blood can be properly determined.
Smoking cessation in pregnancy
Authors: Bittoun Renee , Femia Giuseppe
Published: September 2010

Managing smoking cessation during pregnancy is vital to the wellbeing of the fetus and the mother. Women who continue to smoke during pregnancy expose the fetus to thousands of chemicals which have been shown to cause deleterious short- and long-term effects. Although a large majority of women cease smoking early in the pregnancy, many of them relapse following delivery. Following a review of current research, an overview of the safety and efficacy of smoking cessation treatments for pregnant women will be considered. Limited research has been performed in this field; however, it can be concluded that low-dose intermittent nicotine replacement therapy is a safe treatment modality for women who smoke during pregnancy. At present there has been no research on other current smoking cessation treatments; however, we will suggest techniques to improve cessation rates and strategies to reduce relapse.
Use of vitamin C and E to prevent preeclampsia
Authors: Shennan Andrew H , Duckworth Suzy
Published: September 2010

A review of the evidence exploring the effects of vitamin supplementation on pre-eclampsia and its co-morbidities.
Epidemiological investigation of scarlet fever in Hefei City, China, from 2004 to 2008
Authors: Wang Jing , Zhang Jun-Qing , Pan Hai-Feng , Zhu Yu , He Qian
Published: September 2010

This study aims to explore the epidemiological characteristics of scarlet fever in Hefei City, China, and to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of the disease. A total of 731 cases were recruited from 2004 to 2008. The average incidence was 3.159 per 100,000 population. Our results indicated that the major risk factors for scarlet fever were: gender (male); age (3–6 years); time of disease onset (March to June); and area of residence (urban areas). Knowledge of these factors could help clinicians to provide the appropriate interventions for scarlet fever.
Hepato-pancreatic ascariasis
Authors: De Uptal , Mukherjee M , Das S , Kumar Rupesh
Published: September 2010

Intestinal infestation of humans by Ascaris lumbricoides is endemic in India. The usual habitat of the adult worm is the jejunum. Hepatopancreatic ascariasis (HPA) is designated to a rare group of diseases caused by lodgement of adult worms in the bile or pancreatic ducts. This short report illustrates four rare cases of patients with HPA.
Review: Caroline Slotte: Second-hand stories
Authors: Veiteberg Jorunn
Published: September 2010

Caroline Slotte: Second-hand stories
Review: Classified personal: Drummond H Masterton's toolkit
Authors: Bunnell Katie
Published: September 2010

Classified personal: Drummond H Masterton's toolkit
Review: Quilts 1700-2010: Stories in Stitch Victoria & Albert Museum, London, 20 March 4 July 2010
Authors: Dillon Patricia
Published: September 2010

Quilts 1700-2010: Stories in Stitch
Victoria & Albert Museum, London, 20 March 4 July 2010
Review: Crafts Council Conference Assemble 2010
Authors: Bolton Tim
Published: September 2010

Review of the Crafts Council Conference Assemble 2010 LSO St Lukes, 22 June 2010
Measuring the democratic quality of radio news: experiences from Liberia
Authors: Spurk Christoph , Lopata Sharon , Keel Guido
Published: September 2010

There is a general consensus that media are an essential element of democracy if they fulfil particular quality requirements in their reporting. Abundant literature deals with media quality from a theoretical perspective, but empirical knowledge on journalistic practice with regard
to its role in democratization is rare, and this is even more so in the case of African countries. First, this article seeks to assess the quality of radio in Liberia, which is the country's most popular medium. Second, the article tests a specific methodology in order to measure the contribution
of radio to democracy. It argues that radio stations in Liberia strongly differ in their quality, each with specific shortcomings. These findings are confirmed by interviews with civil society representatives and by audience research.
The production of stardom and the survival dynamics of the Zimbabwean music industry in the post-2000 crisis period
Authors: Mhiripiri Nhamo Anthony
Published: September 2010

Since the late 1990s, Zimbabwe has been going through a difficult economic and political crisis. Many businesses have shut down or have relocated to South Africa and other countries. The music industry has not been spared the myriad problems that have affected all Zimbabwean sectors.
However, the industry endures against all odds and seems to be creating its own stars and hits, while continuing to attract significant media attention. This article demonstrates that due to piracy and poor payment of royalties by recording companies, live performances have become the mainstay
of musicians' income and livelihood. In the business environment of live performances, intermediaries such as promoters and venue owners have made attempts to extract as much as they can from proceeds. Nonetheless, the musicians have become inventive and intelligent users of the media in order
to maximize publicity. Government policies have either boosted or presented obstacles to the music industry. This article also shows that the star and hit system has only benefited a minority of musicians, whilst many continue to live in distress and have often been forced to subsidize their
art through other sources of income. The Zimbabwean star system is created with very little contribution from recording companies, who do not believe in allocating resources to marketing and promotion.
Inserting voice: foreign language film translation as a local phenomenon in Tanzania
Authors: Englert Birgit , Moreto Nginjai Paul
Published: September 2010

This article focuses on a phenomenon of technical innovation that has spread quickly in Tanzania in the past couple of years: the translation of films in languages such as English or Hindi/Urdu into Swahili, the official language of Tanzania. This article discusses this phenomenon through
the life and work of Hemed Musa from Masasi, a young man who acquired his skills in autodidactic ways through experimenting with new technologies and software that he accessed primarily via the Internet. His work is a good example of the decentralization of cultural output in Tanzania, as
he does not work for companies that distribute films at national level, but rather works independently and disseminates his films at local level. The demand for films translated into Swahili has grown considerably in recent years, making films without translation increasingly difficult to
sell. This reflects an increasing eagerness on the part of Tanzanian audiences to understand and not just to see what is going on in other parts of the world, which has been enabled by the availability of new technologies. The rising popularity of translated films raises the question of how
it transforms the film-viewing culture in Tanzania and in what ways it might contribute to the empowerment of especially the younger generation.
The relationship between aminoterminal propeptide of type III procollagen and heart rate variability parameters in heart failure patients: a potential serum marker to evaluate cardiac autonomic control and sudden cardiac death
Authors: Lin Yen-Hung , Lin Chen , Lo Men-Tzung , Lin Hung-Ju , Wu Yen-Wen , Hsu Ron-Bin , Chao Chia-Lun , Hsu Hsiu-Ching , Wang Pa-Chun , Wu Vin-Cent , Wang Shoei-Shen , Lee Chi-Ming , Chien Kuo-Liong , Ho Yi-Lwun , Chen Ming-Fong , Peng Chung-Kang
Published: September 2010

Background: Cardiac extra-cellular matrix (ECM) fibrosis plays an important role in the pathophysiology of heart failure (HF). It may provide electrical heterogeneity and a substrate for arrhythmogenicity, which may cause sudden cardiac death (SCD).

Methods: Twenty-one patients with manifestations of HF and a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤50% were enrolled. The median age was 62 years and median LVEF was 33%. Time- and frequency-domain analysis of heart rate variability (HRV) on 24 h ambulatory electrocardiography recording was assessed. Serum markers of ECM turnover including type I and III aminoterminal propeptide of procollagen (PINP and PIIINP), matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 (MMP-2 and MMP-9), and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) were analyzed.

Results: The serum PIIINP concentration was correlated significantly with standard deviation of all normal to normal R-R intervals (SDNN) (r=–0.722, p=<0.001), percentage of adjacent NN interval differences >50 ms (pNN50) (r=–0.528, p=0.014), percentage of adjacent NN interval differences >20 ms (pNN20) (r=–0.545, p=0.002), very low frequency (VLF) (r=–0.490, p=0.024), low frequency (LF) (r=–0.491, p=0.024), and high frequency (HF) (r=–0.513, p=0.018). PINP, MMP-2, -9, TIMP-1 were not correlated with time- and frequency-domain analysis of HRV.

Conclusions: PIIINP was significantly correlated with time- and frequency-domain analysis of HRV in HF patients. PIIINP is a potential serological marker to evaluate cardiac autonomic control and risk of SCD in HF patients.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1821–7.
Metallo-Thermo-Mechanical Coupled Analysis of Quenching Process for the Plane Strain Problems
Authors: Li Huiping , He Lianfang , Zhao Guoqun
Published: September 2010

Quenching technology is a high non-linear process in which temperature, phase-transformation, and stress/strain affect each other. In this paper, the coupling computation configuration among temperature, phase-transformation, and stress is presented, and the temperature-dependent variation of thermo-physical properties is considered in the FEM simulation. In order to reduce the iteration times and keep the simulation accuracy, an improved method for calculating the elastic-plastic ratio is presented. A plane strain component is regarded as the study objective, and its FEM model is built in the paper. The effects of the initial strains on the quenching residual stresses are simulated using the self-developed FEM software in the quenching process, and the initial strains include the strain induced by temperature, the strain induced by the phase-transformation, and the phase-transformation plasticity. The variation curves of stress components in the representative positions during the quenching are given. The evolvement of the elastic region and plastic region in the quenched part is simulated and analyzed, and the boundary displacements and distortion of the quenched part are also given.
Using the Wolbachia Bacterial Symbiont to Teach Inquiry-Based Science: A High School Laboratory Series
Authors: Bordenstein Seth R. , Brothers Christine , Wolfe George , Bahr Michele , Minckley Robert L. , Clark Michael E. , Wernegreen Jennifer J. , Bordenstein Sarah R. , Reznikoff William S. , Werren John H.
Published: September 2010

Inquiry, discovery, and technology are key pillars in improving science education. We present an inquiry-based lab project using the worldwide symbiosis between the bacterium Wolbachia and invertebrates. This endeavor, called “Discover the Microbes Within! The Wolbachia Project,” has the following goals: (1) involve students in grade 7 through college in a nationwide effort to collect new genetic information on Wolbachia; (2) provide curriculum, protocols, and training to enhance teachers' ability to lead students through the project; and (3) increase students' understanding of biodiversity, evolution, symbiosis, cell biology, molecular biology, and bioinformatics.
A Basic Microbiology Course for High School Students
Authors: Yip Cheng-Wai
Published: September 2010

I describe a 5-day basic microbiology enrichment course for high school students. In this course, students learn microbiological techniques such as preparation of agar plates, isolation of bacteria from food, serial dilution, and plating. Additionally, they experience the steps involved in the identification of an unknown bacterium and learn about the modes of action of common antibiotics against different types of bacteria. Feedback indicates that this course provided invaluable lessons and experiences for students who had no prior hands-on experience with microorganisms.
Environmental Microbiology: Tannins & Microbial Decomposition of Leaves on the Forest Floor
Authors: Traw M. Brian , Gift Nancy
Published: September 2010

Tannins are plant chemicals that humans find useful in products as diverse as tea and leather. Why do plants produce these compounds? One possible answer is defense against pathogens and herbivores. In this series of laboratory exercises, student inquiry begins with a simple question: What happens to the multitude of leaves that drop each autumn? This inquiry brings students from the outdoors to the laboratory, where they observe differences in leaf decomposition rates and the natural abundance of bacteria and tannin concentrations in leaf tissues of red oak, white oak, and tulip poplar. In the process, students increase their understanding of plant chemistry, bacterial culture, graphing, and natural history, while experiencing the iterative nature of scientific inquiry.
The influence of perceived emotional intelligence on the perceived service value and customer loyalty
Authors: Boxer I. , Rekettye G.
Published: September 2010

As competition is increasing both locally and globally, more and more organisations face the need to preserve their customers while minimising preservation and marketing costs. Through an empirical analysis of customers of a logistics service provider in Israel, it is argued that service providers can intelligibly influence customers’ impression and the emotional experience they get through the service provision interaction. Moreover, if this impression is positive, customers perceive an incremental value in the service interaction and tend to develop a long-lasting commitment to the organisation which can develop into loyalty. In general, this rationale is validated by the research.In addition, it was discovered thatpriceis not the main element of customer loyalty; even its role is found to be less dominant than the role of emotion. Implication and projections for further studies are also discussed in the paper.
Accuracy and Repeatability of Anthropometric Facial Measurements Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Fourie Zacharias , Damstra Janalt , Gerrits Peter O. , Ren Yijin
Published: September 2010

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy and repeatability of linear anthropometric measurements on the soft tissue surface model generated from cone beam computed tomography scans.

Materials and Methods

The study sample consisted of seven cadaver heads. The accuracy and repeatability were assessed by means of a series of 21 standardized, linear facial measurements derived from 11 landmarks taken both directly on the face with a set of digital calipers and indirectly from a three-dimensional soft tissue surface model generated from a cone beam computed tomography scan of the heads using SimPlant® Ortho Pro software. The landmarks and measurements were chosen to cover various regions of the face with an emphasis on the oral-nasal region. The cone beam computed tomography measurements were compared with the physical measurements. Statistical analysis for the repeatability was done by means of the intraclass coefficient. Accuracy was determined by means of the absolute error and absolute percentage error.

Results

The cone beam computed tomography measurements were very accurate when compared with the physical measurements (0.962 to 0.999). Except for one measurement, between point tragion (t) and nasion (n) (mean, 1.52 mm), all the measurements had a mean absolute error of less than 1.5 mm.

Conclusions

The three-dimensional surface models derived from cone beam computed tomography images are sufficiently precise and accurate for the anthropometric measurements.
Family Forest Owners' Perceptions on Chemical Methods for Invasive Species Control
Authors: Howle Matthew B. , Straka Thomas J. , Nespeca Mathew C.
Published: September 2010

Focus group methodology in a field demonstration setting was used to obtain qualitative data on the perceptions of family forest owners relating to treatment efficiency and feasibility of herbicide control methods. Interviews took place on sites where various strategic herbicide treatments were implemented for Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense) control using the active ingredients glyphosate and metsulfuron. Forest owners expressed unease about the possibility for post-treatment privet reestablishment due to reseeding or other factors and opinions surfaced calling for selective chemicals or application methods that would spare non-target species. Furthermore, treatment cost effectiveness with regard to timber value, the possible need for expensive multiple treatments, cost-share incentives, and treatment guarantees from herbicide applicators were participant concerns. Environmental concerns surfaced about possible effects of both herbicide use and the invasion of privet on natural systems and an unexpected result was a strong feeling among the forest owners that focus groups are a powerful demonstration tool.
Tumbling: Use of Diffuse Knapweed (Centaurea diffusa) to Examine an Understudied Dispersal Mechanism
Authors: Baker Dirk V. , Withrow John R. , Brown Cynthia S. , Beck K. George
Published: September 2010

Dispersal is a critically important process in the spread of invasive plants. Although knowledge of dispersal will be crucial to preventing the spread of invasive plants, little research has been performed within this context. Many important invasive or agricultural weeds disperse their seeds via tumbling, yet only one previously published paper investigated this dispersal mechanism. Field and wind tunnel experiments were conducted to quantify and model tumbling dispersal. We developed competing models for diffuse knapweed seed dispersal from wind tunnel experiments and compared predictions to data collected from a field site in Colorado. Seeds were retained in plants that had traveled hundreds to as much as 1,039 m (3,408 ft). Although neither model accurately predicted dispersal when compared with independent field data, surprisingly, seed retention with distance was somewhat better described as a linear process than as exponential decay. Wind tunnel trials showed no evidence that the number of seeds deposited per meter depended on plant size. Thus, fecundity might be a key factor determining seed dispersal distances; plants with higher fecundity might disperse seeds over longer distances than those with fewer seeds.
Control Techniques and Management Strategies for the Problematic Navua sedge (Cyperus aromaticus)
Authors: Vitelli Joseph S. , Madigan Barbara A. , van Haaren Peter E.
Published: September 2010

Navua sedge, a member of the Cyperaceae family, is an aggressive weed of pastures in Fiji, Sri Lanka, the Malay Peninsula, Vanuatu, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, and Tahiti and is now a weed of pastures and roadsides in north Queensland, Australia. Primarily restricted to areas with an annual rainfall exceeding 2,500 mm (98.4 in), Navua sedge is capable of forming dense stands, smothering many tropical pasture species. Seventeen herbicides were field tested at three sites in north Queensland, with glyphosate, halosulfuron, hexazinone, imazapic, imazapyr, or MSMA as the most effective for Navua sedge control. Environmental problems, such as persistence in soil, lack of selectivity, and movement off-site, may occur using some herbicides at the predicted 90% lethal concentration (LC90) control level rates. A seasonality trial using halosulfuron (97.5 g ai ha−1[1.4 oz ac−1]) gave better Navua sedge control (84%) by spraying in March to September than by spraying at other times (50%). In a frequency trial, sequential glyphosate applications (2,160 g ae ha−1) every 2 mo was more effective for continued Navua sedge control (67%) than a single application of glyphosate (36%), although loss of ground cover would occur. In a management trial, single applications of glyphosate (2,160 to 3,570 g ae ha−1) using either a rope wick, ground foliar spraying, or a rotary rope wick gave 59 to 73% control, whereas other treatments (rotary hoe, 3%; slashing, −13%; crushing, −30%) were less effective. In a second management trial, four monthly rotary wick applications were much more effective (98%) than four monthly crushing applications (42%). An effective management plan must include the application of regular herbicide treatments to eliminate Navua sedge seed being added to the soil seed bank. Treatments that result in seed burial, for example, discing, are likely to prolong seed persistence and should be avoided. The sprouting activity of vegetative propagules and root fragmentation also needs to be considered when selecting control options.
Rate and Timing of Glyphosate Application to Control Caucasian Old World Bluestem (Bothriochloa bladhii)
Authors: Harmoney Keith R. , Stahlman Phillip W. , Geier Patrick W. , Hickman Karen R.
Published: September 2010

Caucasian Old World bluestem (OWB) has escaped into native rangelands and could have unknown effects on distribution, utilization, growth, and reproduction of native plant and animal species. This trial was established to determine the rate and timing of glyphosate application that will provide the greatest OWB suppression. Treatments included glyphosate applied early at the five-leaf stage of growth with 1.12, 2.24, or 3.36 kg glyphosate ai ha−1(1, 2, or 3 lb ai ac−1), sequential application with an early glyphosate application of 1.12, 2.24, or 3.36 kg ha−1followed by a second application 8 wk later of either 1.12 or 2.24 kg ha−1, and a late-only application of 1.12, 2.24, or 3.36 kg ha−1. Sequential glyphosate applications with at least one of the early or late applications being 2.24 kg ha−1or more reduced OWB frequencies from over 87% to below 30% each year. During a moist year, all sequential application treatments reduced OWB frequency to 12% or less. Frequency of OWB the year after application was directly related (r2= 0.91) to the total amount of glyphosate applied during dry conditions. Seed heads were absent or nearly absent in all sequential application treatments, with the exception of glyphosate at 1.12 kg ha−1applied early and late during the dry season. Sequential application of glyphosate that includes one treatment either early or late of 2.24 or 3.36 kg ha−1appears to be the most effective treatment to reduce established OWB during dry years. During years of adequate moisture, a single late application of 2.24 or 3.36 kg ha−1or sequential applications with 1.12 kg ha−1at each application is as adequate as sequential applications with greater rates for reducing OWB frequency and achieving OWB control.
Regulation of pancreatic islet gene expression in mouse islets by pregnancy
Authors: Layden B T , Durai V , Newman M V , Marinelarena A M , Ahn C W , Feng G , Lin S , Zhang X , Kaufman D B , Jafari N , Sørensen G L , Lowe W L
Published: September 2010

Pancreatic β cells adapt to pregnancy-induced insulin resistance by unclear mechanisms. This study sought to identify genes involved in β cell adaptation during pregnancy. To examine changes in global RNA expression during pregnancy, murine islets were isolated at a time point of increased β cell proliferation (E13.5), and RNA levels were determined by two different assays (global gene expression array and G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) array). Follow-up studies confirmed the findings for select genes. Differential expression of 110 genes was identified and follow-up studies confirmed the changes in select genes at both the RNA and protein level. Surfactant protein D (SP-D) mRNA and protein levels exhibited large increases, which were confirmed in murine islets. Cytokine-induced expression of SP-D in islets was also demonstrated, suggesting a possible role as an anti-inflammatory molecule. Complementing these studies, an expression array was performed to define pregnancy-induced changes in expression of GPCRs that are known to impact islet cell function and proliferation. This assay, the results of which were confirmed using real-time reverse transcription-PCR assays, demonstrated that free fatty acid receptor 2 and cholecystokinin receptor A mRNA levels were increased at E13.5. This study has identified multiple novel targets that may be important for the adaptation of islets to pregnancy.
Strain-rate effect on consolidation behaviour of Ariake clay
Authors: Jia R. , Chai J.-C. , Hino T. , Hong Z.-S.
Published: September 2010

A total of 114 constant rate of strain (CRS) consolidation tests and 15 incremental loading (IL) consolidation tests were conducted for undisturbed Ariake clay samples from three boreholes in the Saga Plain, Kyushu, Japan, to systematically investigate the strain-rate effect on the consolidation behaviour of Ariake clay. The test results show that the consolidation yield stress (pc) of Ariake clays increased by about 15–16% with a tenfold increase in strain rate, and no clear correlation exists between the strain-rate effect and the clay content or plasticity index Ip of the samples. For a given strain level, the strain rate does not influence the compression index Cc, which implies that an isotach model is applicable to Ariake clay. It has been newly found that, under a given effective vertical stress, the coefficient of consolidation cv increases with increase of the strain rate, resulting mainly from the increase of hydraulic conductivity k with strain rate. Linear regression gives about a 33% increase in cv with a tenfold increase in the strain rate. For the Ariake clay tested, the pc and cv values of CRS tests with a strain rate of 0·02%/min are comparable with those of IL tests.
Design and performance of retaining walls
Authors: Roscoe H. , Twine D.
Published: September 2010

Embedded retaining walls for 1·8 km of cut-and-cover tunnels and earth-retaining structures were redesigned during the construction period to optimise construction methods and temporary propping. The design approach included many of the developments now recommended in Ciria report C580, and the paper summarises the experience gained on this contract. The site team made detailed observations of the performance of all 14 structures during construction, and this paper gives an overall summary of the wall movements and prop loads that were measured. The walls were surcharged, and none of the props was preloaded. Despite this, the maximum movements were within those estimated from published correlations. Wall movements were time dependent, and occurred at rates of up to 0·2 mm/day. Prop loads were generally about 40% of the values obtained from moderately conservative calculations. Reducing the prop stiffness assumed in calculations improves agreement, and measurements are reported that provide a basis for closer appraisal of this aspect in future designs.
A 'Sustainability Impact Assessment' of the Economic Partnership Agreements: Challenging the Participatory Process
Authors: Gammage Clair
Published: September 2010

For the past decade the EU has been preparing to end its tradition of preferential and partially reciprocal trade with the African-Caribbean-Pacific (ACP) countries. With the expiry of trade preferences in 2007 under the Cotonou Agreement, these trade partners have agreed to negotiate Economic Partnership Agreements (EPA) and trade on reciprocal terms, in a bid to preserve their special relationship. A Sustainability Impact Assessment (SIA) was commissioned by the EU to engage stakeholders in discussion about the real and potential challenges of the new trade regime facing ACP countries. This paper examines the participatory process of the EPA negotiations, in particular the Sustainability Impact Assessment, through the lens of country ownership and deliberative democracy. Discussion of the participation process will be twofold: analysing whether the issues raised in the public sphere are reflected in the CARIFORUM-EC EPA, and the extent to which the SIA is legitimised through public participation.
Fluoride sorption using Cynodon dactylon based activated carbon
Authors: Alagumuthu G. , Veeraputhiran V. , Venkataraman R.
Published: September 2010

This study deals the application of Cynodon dactylon based thermally
activated carbon for fluoride toxicity. The batch adsorption techniques was
followed at neutral pH as the functions of contact time, adsorbent dose,
adsorbate concentration, temperature and the effect of co-anions. The data
indicate that the prepared adsorbent surface sites are heterogeneous in
nature and that fits into a heterogeneous site-binding model. The present
system followed the Redlich-Peterson isotherm as well as Langmuir adsorption
isotherm model. Lagergren pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, intra
particle diffusion and Elovich kinetics were modeled to describe the
adsorption rate of fluoride and determined as this scheme followed
pseudo-second-order kinetics. The calculated enthalpy change, ?H?, and
entropy change, ?S?, for the adsorption process are +8.725 kJ/mol and +0.033
J/mol K respectively and shows endothermic experience. Instrumental analysis
of XRD, FTIR and SEM gives the idea about the fluoride binding ability of
adsorbent.
Infrared diode laser spectroscopy
Authors: Civiš S. , Cihelka J. , Matulková I.
Published: September 2010

Three types of lasers (double-heterostructure 66 K InAsSb/InAsSbP laser diode, room temperature, multi quantum wells with distributed feedback (MQW with DFB) (GaInAsSb/AlGaAsSb based) diode laser and vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs) (GaSb based) have been characterized using Fourier transform emission spectroscopy and compared. The photoacoustic technique was employed to determine the detection limit of formaldehyde (less than 1 ppmV) for the strongest absorption line of the v3 + v5 band in the emission region of the GaInAsSb/AlGaAsSb diode laser. The detection limit (less than 10 ppbV) of formaldehyde was achieved in the 2820 cm−1 spectral range in case of InAsSb/InAsSbP laser (fundamental bands of v1, v5). Laser sensitive detection (laser absorption together with high resolution Fourier transform infrared technique including direct laser linewidth measurement, infrared photoacoustic detection of neutral molecules (methane, form-aldehyde) is discussed.

Additionally, very sensitive laser absorption techniques of such velocity modulation are discussed for case of laser application in laboratory research of molecular ions. Such sensitive techniques (originally developed for lasers) contributed very much in identifying laboratory microwave spectra of a series of anions (C6H−, C4H−, C2H−, CN−) and their discovery in the interstellar space (C6H−, C4H−).
Comparing guided modal properties of surface waves along single- and double-negative indexed slab waveguides
Authors: Kim K. , Cho Y.
Published: September 2010

The guided dispersion characteristics of the fundamental symmetric and asymmetric modes of surface waves along single- and double-negative indexed slab waveguides are investigated, and a comparative analysis made when varying the single- and double-negative permittivity and permeability. While the values of the permittivity and permeability of the slab region are varied to obtain a salient picture of the guided dispersion characteristics, identical absolute product values are used for both slab cases to facilitate a reasonable comparison. In particular, in common ranges where guided mode solutions coexist for both the single- and double-negative indexed slabs, the guided mode characteristics are similar with a lower normalized frequency regime, indicating that the sign of the material parameters has a negligible effect, whereas the characteristics become quite different as the normalized frequency increases. Some other anomalous guided dispersion properties are also discussed and compared with previously reported results.
Self-assembly: mastering photonic processes at nanoscale
Authors: Fiorini C. , Charra F.
Published: September 2010

Supramolecular ordering happens as an important parameter for the control of light emission processes. In this review paper, we discuss several examples of application of self-assembly to the realization of nano-structures designed in view of mastering specific photonic processes. This comprises the formation of highly localized plasmon modes in self-organized 2D assemblies of metal nanoparticles, the immobilization of dyes inside highly homogeneous 2D alveolar self-assembled molecular matrices and molecular 3D building blocks designed to combine in-plane periodicity and off-plane π-conjugated protrusions. Finally, we will discuss 3D self-assembly in solution with the example of fluorescent labelling of DNA.