bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Notes on Hybrid Novels and Ethical Discourse
Authors: Mosca Raffaello Palumbo
Published: April 2013

The article investigates contemporary European novels that challenge the borders between fiction and nonfiction. Analyzing, among others, works by Antonio Franchini, Javer Cercas and Jonathan Littell, I seek to demonstrate that today’s use of a hybrid genre serves authors as a narrative device to prove the factual truth of their narrations, therefore assuring their social relevance, without losing the capacity to convey a archetypical, meaning of human history. From this perspective I analyze the connections between literature and ethics, suggesting a theory of recognition between the reader and the character and examining in particular the problematic case of the reader’s identification with a morally flawed character.
Illuminating Botticelli’s Chart of Hell
Authors: Parker Deborah
Published: April 2013

This essay explores Botticelli’s Chart of Hell which represents an ingenious interpolation of the first canticle. The chart is one of ninety illustrations which the artist (1445–1510) executed for a lavish codex of the Commedia commissioned by Lorenzo di Pierfrancesco de’ Medici. Parker argues that one can read the map as one does the poem albeit in a distinctly different way. The essay seeks to provide a different perspective on the chart, one that explores Botticelli’s visual remediation of a complex poetic narrative and how the artist literalizes that which is allusive.
Troubled Ascent Towards Perfection: The Myth of Amor and Psyche in Giovan Battista Marino’s L’Adone
Authors: Kluge Sofie
Published: April 2013

The article demonstrates how the 4th canto of Giovan Battista Marino’s Adone (1623) reflects the perennial, but recently augmented antagonism between moral concerns and aesthetic interests. It is argued, that this quintessential Counter-Reformation issue is discernible in the “Novelletta” canto’s ambiguous concern with the increasing amount of material obstacles perceived on the way to spiritual excellence, observable on different textual levels: in the thematic occupation with the notions of trial and discipline, in the excursive structure and ambiguous rhetoric, and in the use of stylistic devices, which obstruct the reading and interpretation of the text.
Serpentine Left Circumflex Coronary Artery Aneurysm as a Rare Cause of Angina with Contrast-Enhanced Multislice Computed Tomographic Evaluation
Authors: Taimeh Ziad , Loughran John , Pagni Sebastian
Published: April 2013

Left circumflex coronary artery anomalies are rare causes of cardiac symptoms, especially in the adult population. Herein we describe a case of a 40-year-old man presenting with stable angina who was found to have aneurysmal formation and fistulization of the left circumflex coronary artery to the coronary sinus. Contrast-enhanced multislice computed tomography was very useful in our case for the diagnosis of such anomalies.
Some properties of local homology and local cohomology modules
Authors: Nam Tran
Published: April 2013

We study some properties of representable or I-stable local homology modules HiI
(M) where M is a linearly compact module. By duality, we get some properties of good or at local cohomology modules HIi
(M) of A. Grothendieck.
In Reply
Authors: Tampellini Marco , Ardissone Francesco , Scagliotti Giorgio Vittorio
Published: April 2013

This response to Migliore et al. further discusses the surgical resection of patients with lung metastases from colorectal cancers.
Midterm Results of 58 Fractures of the Coronoid Process of the Ulna and their Concomitant Injuries
Authors: Kiene J , Wäldchen J , Paech A , Jürgens Ch , Schulz A.P
Published: April 2013

Background:

In general, fractures of the coronoid process are rare and usually occur in combination with additional elbow joint injuries. The treatment of these injuries aims to regain a stable as well as a flexible and loadable joint. Although there is currently little evidence, therapy recommendations remain controversial. Therefore, the aim of this study was to prognostically determine relevant factors for therapy recommendation by analysing a representative patient population of two trans-regional trauma centres.

Material and Methods:

Seventy-seven patients with a fracture of the coronoid process were treated within an 8-year period (2001 to 2009). After an average of 48 months (SD 31), treatment outcome of 58 patients (75%) was acquired. The results were statistically analysed.

Results:

The average age of the patient was 51.8 years (SD 13.6); 36 were male and 34 had a fracture on the right arm. Applying the fracture types of the coronoid process in accordance with Regan/Morrey, the result was: Type I (19), II (17) and III (22). Further injuries were also detected: 40 radial head fractures, 17 proximal ulnar fractures and 2 fractures of the olecranon. A luxation was detected in 44 of the 58 patients (76%). The patients’ average MEPS (Mayo Elbow Performance Score) was 80.6 points (SD 18), with significant differences between the various therapy strategies. Fifteen% of the coronoid process fractures were reconstructable to a limited extent only by means of osteosynthesis. In 33% of the patients, instabilities remained. The average extension/flexion came to 107° (SD 28), and pronation and supination 153° (SD 38).

Conclusion:

At present, a surgical therapy of ligamentary injuries cannot be statistically justified. A stable osseous reconstruction appears to make more sense. The strongest negative prognostic parameters in our patient population were: therapy with an external fixator, immobilisation for more than 21 days, the occurrence of complications and unstable osteosyntheses on the coronoid process.
Shaping Professional Development to Promote the Diffusion of Instructional Expertise Among Teachers
Authors: Sun Min , Penuel William R. , Frank Kenneth A. , Gallagher H. Alix , Youngs Peter
Published: April 2013

This study examines how high-quality professional development can promote the diffusion of effective teaching strategies among teachers through collaboration. Drawing on longitudinal and sociometric data from a study of writing professional development in 39 schools, this study shows that teachers’ participation in professional development is associated with providing more help to colleagues on instructional matters. Further, the influence of professional development on participants’ instructional practice diffuses through the network of helping. These findings suggest that in addition to direct effects, spillover effects of professional development can occur through collegial interactions. Evidence presented in this study potentially helps educational leaders develop high-quality professional development programs and distribute professional development participants within schools to enhance all teachers’ instructional practices.
Considerations for Designing Group Randomized Trials of Professional Development With Teacher Knowledge Outcomes
Authors: Kelcey Ben , Phelps Geoffrey
Published: April 2013

Despite recent shifts in research emphasizing the value of carefully designed experiments, the number of studies of teacher professional development with rigorous designs has lagged behind its student outcome counterparts. We outline a framework for the design of group randomized trials (GRTs) with teachers’ knowledge as the outcome and consider mathematics and reading knowledge outcomes designed to assess the types of content problems that teachers encounter in practice. To estimate design parameters, we draw on a national sample of teachers for mathematics and a state Reading First sample to estimate for reading. Our results suggest that there is substantial clustering of teachers’ knowledge within schools and professional development GRTs will likely need increased sample sizes to account for this clustering.
Developmental plasticity, genetic assimilation, and the evolutionary diversification of sexual expression in Solanum
Authors: Diggle Pamela K. , Miller Jill S.
Published: April 2013

• Premise of the study: For over a century, it has been hypothesized that selection can convert an environmentally induced phenotype (i.e., plasticity) into a fixed (constitutively produced) phenotype, a process known as genetic assimilation. While evidence of assimilation is accumulating, the role of plasticity generally and assimilation specifically in evolutionary diversification has rarely been examined from a comparative phylogenetic perspective.

• Methods: We combined experimental analyses of plasticity with ancestral state reconstructions to examine the evolutionary dynamics of sexual expression in two well‐characterized sections (Acanthophora and Lasiocarpa) in Solanum subgenus Leptostemonum. We examined sexual expression phenotypes and the proportion of staminate flowers produced under contrasting resource conditions in 10 species and combined these data with previous studies.

• Key results: Staminate flower production was phenotypically plastic for nine of 14 species and unaffected by treatment in five species. Two of the nonplastic species bore few staminate flowers, and three constitutively produced large numbers of staminate flowers. For individuals and species producing staminate flowers, these flowers occurred in a distinctive architectural pattern that was qualitatively the same in both plastic and nonplastic species. Parsimony and Bayesian reconstructions demonstrate that plasticity is ancestral among the species studied.

• Conclusions: Plasticity has been lost independently in sections Acanthophora and Lasiocarpa, and the consequence of its loss results in evolutionary diversification of sexual expression. In section Acanthophora, loss of plasticity represents a reversion to production of predominantly hermaphroditic flowers. In contrast, the fixed production of staminate flowers in Lasiocarpa has the hallmarks of evolution via genetic assimilation.
Imprinting of Lymphocytes with Melanoma Antigens Acquired by Trogocytosis Facilitates Identification of Tumor-Reactive T Cells
Authors: Eisenberg Galit , Uzana Ronny , Pato Aviad , Frankenburg Shoshana , Merims Sharon , Yefenof Eitan , Ferrone Soldano , Peretz Tamar , Machlenkin Arthur , Lotem Michal
Published: April 2013

Trogocytosis is a contact-dependent intercellular transfer of membrane fragments and associated molecules from APCs to effector lymphocytes. We previously demonstrated that trogocytosis also occurs between tumor target and cognate melanoma Ag-specific cytotoxic T cells (CTL). In this study, we show that, following trogocytosis, immune effector cells acquire molecular components of the tumor, including surface Ags, which are detectable by specific mAbs. We demonstrate that CD8+ and CD4+ T cells from melanoma patients’ PBMC and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) capture melanoma Ags, enabling identification of trogocytosing lymphocytes by staining with Ag-specific Abs. This finding circumvents the necessity of tumor prelabeling, which in the past was mandatory to detect membrane-capturing T cells. Through the detection of melanoma Ags on TIL, we sorted trogocytosing T cells and verified their preferential reactivity and cytotoxicity. Furthermore, tumor Ag–imprinted T cells were detected at low frequency in fresh TIL cultures shortly after extraction from the tumor. Thus, T cell imprinting by tumor Ags may allow the enrichment of melanoma Ag-specific T cells for research and potentially even for the adoptive immunotherapy of patients with cancer.
Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Regulates IL-10 and Resistance to Pseudomonas aeruginosa Corneal Infection
Authors: Foldenauer Megan E. B. , McClellan Sharon A. , Berger Elizabeth A. , Hazlett Linda D.
Published: April 2013

IL-10 is important in the resistance response of BALB/c mice to experimental Pseudomonas aeruginosa corneal infection. However, the cellular mechanisms by which this anti-inflammatory cytokine is regulated remain unknown. Because the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) regulates IL-10 in other disease models, the present study tested its role in bacterial keratitis. After infection, corneas of rapamycin versus control-treated BALB/c mice showed worsened disease, and real-time RT-PCR confirmed that mTOR mRNA levels were significantly decreased. Rapamycin treatment also increased clinical score, polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) infiltration (determined by myeloperoxidase assay), and bacterial load, but it diminished PMN bactericidal activity. Inhibition of mTOR also led to elevated mRNA and protein levels of IL-12p40, matrix metalloproteinase 9, and inducible NO synthase, whereas mRNA and protein levels of IL-10, its regulator/effector STAT-3, and suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (a proinflammatory cytokine regulator) were decreased. Furthermore, mTOR inhibition reduced levels of proapoptotic caspase-3 and increased levels of B cell lymphoma-2 (antiapoptotic), indicative of delayed apoptosis. mTOR inhibition also altered genes related to TLR signaling, including elevation of TLR4, TLR5, and IL-1R1, with decreases in IL-1R-associated kinase 1 and an inhibitor of NF-κB, NF-κB inhibitor–like 1. Rapamycin treatment also increased levels of IFN-γ and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein, β, a gene that regulates expression of preprotachykinin-A (the precursor of substance P). Collectively, these data, as well as a rescue experiment using rIL-10 together with rapamycin, which decreased PMN in cornea, provide concrete evidence that mTOR regulates IL-10 in P. aeruginosa–induced bacterial keratitis and is critical to balancing pro- and anti-inflammatory events, resulting in better disease outcome.
Addressing health workers’ exposure to violence at Lebanese emergency departments: What do the stakeholders think?
Authors: Alameddine Mohamad , Yassin Nasser
Published: April 2013

Healthcare settings are notorious for exposing their employees to high levels of verbal and physical violence. A recent study on occupational violence at Lebanese Emergency Departments (EDs) revealed that 70% of surveyed ED workers were exposed to at least one incidence of violence over the last twelve months. Acting on the findings of this study a multi-stakeholder policy forum was held with key ED stakeholders to discuss possible policy and practice changes to reduce health workers’ exposure to occupational violence. Stakeholder deliberations revealed that the root causes of violence in EDs could be classified under three main categories relating to the administration of EDs including the presence of antiviolence policies, the management of human resources, and balancing patient expectations. Stakeholders built a consensus on a number of remedial actions at the societal, health care facility and policy levels. Engaging with various stakeholders in an open forum was a unique initiative that contributed to building a consensus among key stakeholders on a road map to help protect health workers in EDs and beyond.
Proposed NASA Budget Includes Asteroid Capture but Cuts Planetary Science and Education
Authors: Balcerak Ernie
Published: April 2013

The Obama administration's proposed $17.7 billion budget for NASA for fiscal year (FY) 2014 provides $105 million for several asteroid‐related initiatives, including preliminary studies for a potential mission that would capture an asteroid and drag it into orbit around the Moon. The agency's total proposed budget is down slightly compared to FY 2012 (see Table ; comparisons are to FY 2012 because government agencies had been operating on a continuing resolution for 2013 and final spending levels for 2013 were not available at the time the president released his proposed 2014 budget).
Administration's Proposed NSF Budget Includes a 5.5% Increase for Geosciences
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: April 2013

The fiscal year (FY) 2014 proposed federal budget for the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is $7.63 billion, 7.3% above the FY 2012 actual amount. NSF acting director Cora Marrett said the budget reflects the administration's recognition of NSF and the importance of funding basic research. “We are pleased about where we stand and hope that Congress will be just as pleased with the budget proposal and will help move things forward,” she said during a meeting of the NSF Advisory Committee for Geosciences on 11 April. Budget comparisons are to FY 2012 because the 2013 appropriations were enacted at the end of March, less than 2 weeks before President Barack Obama sent the proposed budget to Congress.
Improving Intercomparability of Marine Biogeochemical Time Series
Authors: Benway Heather M. , Telszewski Maciej , Lorenzoni Laura
Published: April 2013

Shipboard biogeochemical time series represent one of the most valuable tools scientists have to quantify marine elemental fluxes and associated biogeochemical processes and to understand their links to changing climate. They provide the long, temporally resolved data sets needed to characterize ocean climate, biogeochemistry, and ecosystem variability and change. However, to monitor and differentiate natural cycles and human‐driven changes in the global oceans, time series methodologies must be transparent and intercomparable when possible. To review current shipboard biogeochemical time series sampling and analytical methods, the International Ocean Carbon Coordination Project (IOCCP; http://www.ioccp.org/) and the Ocean Carbon and Biogeochemistry Program (http://www.us‐ocb.org/) convened an international ocean time series workshop at the Bermuda Institute for Ocean Sciences.
The Longitudinal Properties of the Ionosphere and Their Effects on Space Weather
Authors: Fuller‐Rowell Tim , Yizengaw Endawoke , Doherty Patricia , Mengistu Gizaw
Published: April 2013

Near‐Earth space weather is largely due to structure in the ionospheric density and electric currents flowing in the upper atmosphere. The steep plasma gradients and ionospheric irregularities affect a range of communication and navigation operational systems that depend on radio waves being reflected off, or transmitted through, the ionosphere. Electrical currents flowing in the upper atmosphere also induce currents in power lines and can burn out transformers.
New Educational Video Series From AGU
Authors: Adamec Bethany Holm , Sollosi Derek
Published: April 2013

A new video series entitled Live Education Activity Resource Network (LEARN) With AGU was recently launched. This series of short Earth and space science–related videos is designed to give K–12 formal and informal educators the tools they need to try new hands‐on activities with their students. Research indicates that hands‐on learning and problem solving are important ways for students to learn, but educators do not always know where to begin or think that they need a lot of materials to do a hands‐on activity (which often is not the case).
New tool improves forecasts of coronal mass ejections
Authors: Balcerak Ernie
Published: April 2013

Coronal mass ejections (CMEs)—explosions of plasma from the Sun that propagate outward in the solar wind—can, if they reach Earth's environment, cause geomagnetic storms and adversely affect satellites, GPS, and other technology. A recently developed analysis tool, currently in operational use at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), helps predict whether a CME will affect Earth's environment and, if so, when the CME will arrive at Earth. The new technique significantly improves real‐time estimates of the CME's size, speed, and direction of travel, parameters that are then used as inputs into a comprehensive numerical model of the heliosphere running operationally at the National Weather Service.
Brazil's sugarcane boom could affect regional temperatures
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: April 2013

With the world seeking to cut its dependence on fossil fuels, the use of bioethanol and other biofuels is on the rise. In Brazil, the second largest producer and consumer of bioethanol, this has led to a boom in sugarcane production. Based on new laws and trade agreements, researchers expect Brazil's production of sugarcane‐derived ethanol to increase tenfold over the next decade, with considerable land being converted for growing sugarcane. Much of this expansion is expected to come at a loss of some of the country's cerrado savannas. So while a major aim of the turn to biofuels is to reduce the transfer of carbon to the atmosphere and mitigate global climate change, the shifting agricultural activity could have direct consequences on Brazil's climate by changing the region's physical and biogeochemical properties.
Distinguishing drought and water scarcity
Authors: Balcerak Ernie
Published: April 2013

Water resources can become strained by both natural factors such as drought and human factors such as unsustainable use. Water resource managers can develop practices to reduce overuse of water resources, but they cannot prevent droughts, so distinguishing the causes of water stress can be useful. However, because the two factors often occur at the same time, distinguishing between them can be difficult.
Pharmacokinetics of nebivolol in the rat: low oral absorption, loss in the gut and systemic stereoselectivity
Authors: Sanaee Forugh , Valente Neves Daniel , Lanchote Vera Lucia , Jamali Fakhreddin
Published: April 2013

Nebivolol is a third‐generation β1‐adrenoceptor blocker with β3 agonistic properties (AR). It has a low oral bioavailability that is speculated to be due to its hepatic first‐pass metabolism. Inflammation is known to suppress the clearance of drugs with efficient hepatic metabolism. However, inflammation does not influence nebivolol clearance. Therefore, we looked into the mechanism involved in the drug's low bioavailability and stereoselectivity. Single 1 mg/kg i.v. or intraperitoneal (i.p.) or 2 mg/kg oral doses were administered to male Sprague‐Dawley rats and the plasma nebivolol concentration was measured using chiral and achiral assays. The passage of nebivolol enantiomers through the gut was also measured using everted rat sacs. The serum protein binding of the enantiomers was studied in vitro using the ultrafiltration method. Plasma nebivolol concentrations were significantly lower after p.o., but not after i.p., compared with i.v. doses suggesting the gut as the site of pre‐systemic loss. Approximately 50% of the enantiomers were lost during 90 min incubation in the presence of gut. Only 0.1% of the added drug crossed the gut wall with no evidence of stereoselectivity. Thus stereoselectivity in the pharmacokinetics of nebivolol (+ > ‐) is likely at the level of plasma protein binding. The low nebivolol bioavailability is due to its loss in the gut as well as its limited permeability through the intestinal wall. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhanced FK506 production in Streptomyces tsukubaensis by rational feeding strategies based on comparative metabolic profiling analysis
Authors: Xia Menglei , Huang Di , Li Shanshan , Wen Jianping , Jia Xiaoqiang , Chen Yunlin
Published: April 2013

FK506, a widely used immunosuppressant, is produced by industrial fermentation processes using various Streptomyces species. However, the low titer becomes a bottleneck for its application and industrialization. It urgently required a full understanding of the biological mechanisms for FK506 overproduction. Towards this end, comparative metabolomics approach was employed to analyze metabolite concentrations difference of Streptomyces tsukubaensis cultivated in two media with low and high productivities. Initially, 98 intracellular metabolites were identified and 13 metabolites involved in five pathways were determined to be directly correlated with FK506 biosynthesis. Then in‐depth analysis elucidated how those key factors exerted influence on FK506 biosynthesis. Many previously unreported metabolites were shown to play an important role in FK506 biosynthesis and provided potential regulation points for external manipulation. Based on such key information, rationally designed feeding strategy was carried out. Results showed that the FK506 yield increased from 251 to 405 mg/L, whereas, by‐products FK520 and 37,38‐dihydro‐FK506 decreased by 31% and 39%, respectively, compared with the values of control. To our knowledge, it is the first study to apply the comparative metabolomics method to identify key metabolites to promote the FK506 production. The strategies developed here can easily be extended to titer improvement of other important microbial natural products and process optimization. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013;110: 2717–2730. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular tools for cryptic Candida species identification with applications in a clinical laboratory
Authors: Gamarra Soledad , Dudiuk Catiana , Mancilla Estefanía , Vera Garate María Verónica , Guerrero Sergio , Garcia‐Effron Guillermo
Published: April 2013

Candida spp. includes more than 160 species but only 20 species pose clinical problems. C. albicans and C. parapsilosis account for more than 75% of all the fungemias worldwide. In 1995 and 2005, one C. albicans and two C. parapsilosis‐related species were described, respectively. Using phenotypic traits, the identification of these newly described species is inconclusive or impossible. Thus, molecular‐based procedures are mandatory. In the proposed educational experiment we have adapted different basic molecular biology techniques designed to identify these species including PCR, multiplex PCR, PCR‐based restriction endonuclease analysis and nuclear ribosomal RNA amplification. During the classes, students acquired the ability to search and align gene sequences, design primers, and use bioinformatics software. Also, in the performed experiments, fungal molecular taxonomy concepts were introduced and the obtained results demonstrated that classic identification (phenotypic) in some cases needs to be complemented with molecular‐based techniques. As a conclusion we can state that we present an inexpensive and well accepted group of classes involving important concepts that can be recreated in any laboratory. © 2013 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 41(3):180–186, 2013
Applied spectrophotometry: Analysis of a biochemical mixture
Authors: Trumbo Toni A. , Schultz Emeric , Borland Michael G. , Pugh Michael Eugene
Published: April 2013

Spectrophotometric analysis is essential for determining biomolecule concentration of a solution and is employed ubiquitously in biochemistry and molecular biology. The application of the Beer‐Lambert‐Bouguer Lawis routinely used to determine the concentration of DNA, RNA or protein. There is however a significant difference in determining the concentration of a given species (RNA, DNA, protein) in isolation (a contrived circumstance) as opposed to determining that concentration in the presence of other species (a more realistic situation). To present the student with a more realistic laboratory experience and also to fill a hole that we believe exists in student experience prior to reaching a biochemistry course, we have devised a three week laboratory experience designed so that students learn to: connect laboratory practice with theory, apply the Beer‐Lambert‐Bougert Law to biochemical analyses, demonstrate the utility and limitations of example quantitative colorimetric assays, demonstrate the utility and limitations of UV analyses for biomolecules, develop strategies for analysis of a solution of unknown biomolecular composition, use digital micropipettors to make accurate and precise measurements, and apply graphing software. © 2013 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 41(4):242–250, 2013
The anatomy of the hip abductor muscles
Authors: Flack N.A.M.S. , Nicholson H.D. , Woodley S.J.
Published: April 2013

The anatomy of the hip abductors has not been comprehensively examined, yet is important to understanding function and pathology in the gluteal region. For example, pathology of the hip abductor muscle‐tendon complexes can cause greater trochanteric pain syndrome, and may be associated with gluteal atrophy and fatty infiltration. The purpose of this study was to investigate the detailed morphology of gluteus medius (GMed), gluteus minimus (GMin), and tensor fascia lata (TFL), and determine whether the muscles comprised anatomical compartments. The gluteal region from 12 cadavers was dissected and data collected on attachment sites, volume, fascicular and tendinous anatomy, and innervation. Three sites of GMed origin were identified (gluteal fossa, gluteal aponeurosis, and posteroinferior edge of the iliac crest) and the distal tendon had lateral and posterior parts. GMed was the largest in volume (27.6 ± 11.6 cm3; GMin 14.1 ± 11.1 cm3; TFL 1.8 ± 0.8 cm3). Fascicles of GMin originated from the gluteal fossa, inserting onto the deep surface of its distal tendon and the hip joint capsule. TFL was encapsulated in the fascia lata, having no bony attachment. Primary innervation patterns varied for GMed, with three or four branches supplying different regions of muscle. Distinct secondary nerve branches entered four regions of GMin; no differential innervation was observed for TFL. On the basis of architectural parameters and innervation, GMed, and GMin each comprise of four compartments but TFL is a homogenous muscle. It is anticipated that these data will be useful for future clinical and functional studies of the hip abductors. Clin. Anat. 27:241–253, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Not worth the extra cost? Diluting the differentiation ability of highly rated products by altering the meaning of rating scale levels
Authors: Meißner Martin , Heinzle Stefanie Lena , Decker Reinhold
Published: April 2013

Over the last decade, the use of rating scales has grown in popularity in various fields, including customer online reviews and energy labels. Rating scales convey important information on attributes of products or services that consumers evaluate in their purchase decisions. By applying multidimensional scaling, this paper reveals that the meaning of the levels of a rating scale can be altered by manipulating the labeling of the rating scale levels. The study reveals that consumers perceive product attributes as being more similar if the labels share similar or identical linguistic or visual characteristics. In addition, two choice‐based conjoint studies examine whether the way consumers make their choices among products can be influenced by changing the labeling of rating scale levels. The results show that a manipulation of the meaning of rating scale levels diminishes both the importance of the rating scale information and consumers' willingness to pay a premium for a rating upgrade. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Length of left anterior descending coronary artery determines prognosis in acute anterior wall myocardial infarction
Authors: Ilia Reuben , Weinstein Jean Marc , Wolak Arik , Gilutz Harel , Cafri Carlos
Published: April 2013

Background

The left anterior descending artery (LAD) supplies blood to a large part of the myocardium. However, the amount of myocardium supplied varies depending on the length of the LAD and as a result, occlusion of its proximal portion may influence outcome. We investigated the prognosis of patients with anterior wall myocardial infarction as the initial presentation of coronary disease who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in our institution due to isolated proximal LAD occlusion.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed all patients that underwent PPCI in our institution from 2002 to June 2012. The individuals who fulfilled the above criteria constituted the study group. We recorded demographic, clinical, and angiographic data as well as mortality during the study period.

Results

Of 2,532 patients undergoing PPCI, 196 had isolated proximal LAD occlusion. In 112 of them (57%), the LAD wrapped around the apex (group A) and in the remaining 84 (43%), the LAD terminated at or before the apex (group B). At univariate analysis, patients in group A were found to be older (P = 0.04). Over the study period, 28% of patients in group A died in comparison to 2.4% in group B (P < 0.01). When differentiating between cardiac and non‐cardiac death, both were also significantly higher in group A (P < 0.01). At multivariate analysis, the strongest predictor of death was long LAD versus shorter LAD (HR 9.1, 95% CI 1.1–76, P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Wrap‐around LAD is a strong predictor of prognosis in patients with anterior wall MI undergoing PPCI to isolated proximal LAD occlusion. In addition, those with a shorter LAD have an excellent prognosis. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Tetrafluoro‐ and Tetrachlorofluorescein Derivatives and Their Stabilization by β‐Cyclodextrin
Authors: Tan Li‐Li , Yang Ying‐Wei , Liu Yi‐Pu , Zhang Sean Xiao‐An
Published: April 2013

A highly efficient one‐pot procedure for the preparation of fluorescein‐based dyes with relatively high yield was investigated. Significantly, introduction of these fluoro and chloro functional groups and forming host‐guest complexes with cyclodextrins partially enhanced the photostability of these dyes.
Helicobacter pylori‐induced alteration of epithelial cell signaling and polarity: A possible mechanism of gastric carcinoma etiology and disparity
Authors: Osman Mahasin A. , Bloom George S. , Tagoe Emmanuel A.
Published: April 2013

Gastric cancer, a disease of disparity associated with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, is the world's second leading cause of cancer deaths. The pathogen H. pylori target the epithelial adhesion receptors, E‐cadherin, and β1‐integrin, to modulate the host cytoskeleton via disruption of the epithelial cell polarity necessary for maintaining the infection, but how this leads to the development of the carcinoma is widely unclear. While Rho family GTPases' signaling to the cytoskeleton and these receptors is required for initiating and maintaining the infection, the responsible effectors, and how they might influence the etiology of the carcinomas are currently unknown. Here we discuss the potential role of the Cdc42‐IQGAP1 axis, a negative regulator of the tumor suppressors E‐cadherin and β1‐integrin, as a potential driver of H. pylori‐induced gastric carcinoma and propose avenues for addressing its disparity. Chronic dysfunction of the IQGAP1‐signaling pathway, resulting from H. pylori‐induced disruption of cell polarity, can explain the pathogenesis of the carcinoma, at least, in subsets of infected population, and thus could provide a potential means for personalized medicine. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multicenter validation study of pathologic response and tumor thickness at the tumor‐normal liver interface as independent predictors of disease‐free survival after preoperative chemotherapy and surgery for colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Brouquet Antoine , Zimmitti Giuseppe , Kopetz Scott , Stift Judith , Julié Catherine , Lemaistre Anne‐Isabelle , Agarwal Atin , Patel Viren , Benoist Stephane , Nordlinger Bernard , Gandini Alessandro , Rivoire Michel , Stremitzer Stefan , Gruenberger Thomas , Vauthey Jean‐Nicolas , Maru Dipen M.
Published: April 2013

BACKGROUND

To validate pathologic markers of response to preoperative chemotherapy as predictors of disease‐free survival (DFS) after resection of colorectal liver metastases (CLM).

METHODS

One hundred seventy‐one patients who underwent resection of CLM after preoperative chemotherapy at 4 centers were studied. Pathologic response—defined as the proportion of tumor cells remaining (complete, 0%; major, <50%; minor, ≥50%) and tumor thickness at the tumor‐normal liver interface (TNI) (<0.5 mm, 0.5 to <5 mm, ≥5 mm)—was assessed by a central pathology reviewer and local pathologists.

RESULTS

Pathologic response was complete in 8% of patients, major in 49% of patients, and minor in 43% of patients. Tumor thickness at the TNI was <0.5 mm in 21% of patients, 0.5 to <5 mm in 56% of patients, and ≥5 mm in 23% of patients. On multivariate analyses, using either pathologic response or tumor thickness at TNI, pathologic response (P = .002, .009), tumor thickness at TNI (P = 0.015, <.001), duration of preoperative chemotherapy (P = .028, .043), number of CLM (P = .038, . 037), and margin (P = .011, .016) were associated with DFS. In a multivariate analysis using both parameters, tumor thickness at TNI (P = .004, .015), duration of preoperative chemotherapy (P = .025), number of nodules (P = .027), and margin (P = .014) were associated with DFS. Tumor size by pathology examination was the predictor of pathologic response. Predictors of tumor thickness at the TNI were tumor size and chemotherapy regimen. There was near perfect agreement for pathologic response (κ = .82) and substantial agreement (κ = .76) for tumor thickness between the central reviewer and local pathologists.

CONCLUSIONS

Pathologic response and tumor thickness at the TNI are valid predictors of DFS after preoperative chemotherapy and surgery for CLM. Cancer 2013;119:2778–2788. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Extracellular Electron Transfer across Bacterial Cell Membranes via a Cytocompatible Redox‐Active Polymer
Authors: Nishio Koichi , Nakamura Ryuhei , Lin Xiaojie , Konno Tomohiro , Ishihara Kazuhiko , Nakanishi Shuji , Hashimoto Kazuhito
Published: April 2013

A redox‐active phospholipid polymer with a phospholipid‐mimicking structure (2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine; MPC) was synthesized to construct a biocompatible electron mediator between bacteria and an electrode. In this study, a copolymer of MPC and vinylferrocene [VF; poly(MPC‐co‐VF)] (PMF) is synthesized. When PMF is added to cultures of the bacterial species Escherichia coli (Gram negative) and Lactobacillus plantarum (Gram positive), which have different cell wall structures, a catalytic current mediated by PMF is observed. In addition, growth curves and live/dead assays indicate that PMF does not decrease metabolic activity or cell viability. These results indicate that PMF mediates extracellular electron transfer across bacterial cell membranes without associated cytotoxicity.
Process analytical technology (PAT) tools for the cultivation step in biopharmaceutical production
Authors: Streefland Mathieu , Martens Dirk E. , Beuvery E. Coen , Wijffels René H.
Published: April 2013

The process analytical technology (PAT) initiative is now 10 years old. This has resulted in the development of many tools and software packages dedicated to PAT application on pharmaceutical processes. However, most applications are restricted to small molecule drugs, mainly for the relatively simple process steps like drying or tableting where only a limited number of parameters need to be controlled. A big challenge for PAT still lies in applications for biopharmaceuticals and then especially in the cultivation process step, where the quality of a biopharmaceutical product is largely determined. This review gives an overview of the currently available tools for monitoring and controlling the biopharmaceutical cultivation step and of the main challenges for the most common cell platforms (i.e. Escherichia coli, yeast, and mammalian cells) used in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. The real challenge is to understand how intracellular mechanisms (from synthesis to excretion) influence the quality of biopharmaceuticals and how these mechanisms can be monitored and controlled to yield the desired end product quality. Modern “omics” tools and advanced process analyzers have opened up the way for PAT applications for the biopharmaceutical cultivation process step.
Toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics of nickel in Enchytraeus crypticus
Authors: He Erkai , van Gestel Cornelis A.M.
Published: April 2013

Metal toxicity is usually determined at a fixed time point, which may bias the assessment of risks associated with varied exposure time. Time-dependent accumulation and toxicity of nickel in the potworm Enchytraeus crypticus were investigated in solutions embedded in an inert quartz sand matrix. Internal Ni concentration and mortality were determined at 7 different time intervals and interpreted from the perspective of toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics. A 1-compartment model was used to describe the uptake and elimination kinetics of Ni. At each exposure concentration, Ni concentration in the organisms increased with increasing exposure time, reaching equilibrium after approximately 14 d. Median lethal concentration (LC50) decreased with time and reached an ultimate value of 0.182 mg/L. The LC50 values expressed as internal Ni concentrations (LC50inter) were almost constant (16.7 mg/kg body dry wt) at each exposure time. The LC50inter was independent of exposure time, suggesting that internal concentration was a better indicator of Ni toxicity than external concentration. The uptake rate constant was 11.9 L/kg/d, and elimination rate constants were 0.325/d (based on internal concentration) and 0.070/d (based on survival), indicating that not all internal Ni contributes to toxicity. The present study highlights the importance of taking time into account in future toxicity testing and risk assessment practices. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:1835–1841. © 2013 SETAC
Effects of the insecticide fipronil on reproductive endocrinology in the fathead minnow
Authors: Bencic David C. , Villeneuve Daniel L. , Biales Adam D. , Blake Lindsey , Durhan Elizabeth J. , Jensen Kathleen M. , Kahl Michael D. , Makynen Elizabeth A. , Martinović-Weigelt Dalma , Ankley Gerald T.
Published: April 2013

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and GABA receptors play an important role in neuroendocrine regulation in fish. Disruption of the GABAergic system by environmental contaminants could interfere with normal regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, leading to impaired fish reproduction. The present study used a 21-d fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) reproduction assay to investigate the reproductive toxicity of fipronil (FIP), a broad-spectrum phenylpyrazole insecticide that acts as a noncompetitive blocker of GABA receptor–gated chloride channels. Continuous exposure up to 5 µg FIP/L had no significant effect on most of the endpoints measured, including fecundity, secondary sexual characteristics, plasma steroid and vitellogenin concentrations, ex vivo steroid production, and targeted gene expression in gonads or brain. The gonad mass, gonadosomatic index, and histological stage of the gonad were all significantly different in females exposed to 0.5 µg FIP/L compared with those exposed to 5.0 µg FIP/L; however, there were no other significant effects on these measurements in the controls or any of the other treatments in either males and females. Overall, the results do not support a hypothesized adverse outcome pathway linking FIP antagonism of the GABA receptor(s) to reproductive impairment in fish. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:1828–1834. © 2013 SETAC
Development of short, acute exposure hazard estimates: A tool for assessing the effects of chemical spills in aquatic environments
Authors: Bejarano Adriana C. , Farr James K.
Published: April 2013

Management decisions aimed at protecting aquatic resources following accidental chemical spills into rivers and coastal estuaries require estimates of toxic thresholds derived from realistic spill conditions: acute pulse exposures of short duration (h), information which often is unavailable. Most existing toxicity data (median lethal concentration or median effective concentration) come from tests performed under constant exposure concentrations and exposure durations in the 24-h to 96-h range, conditions not typical of most chemical spills. Short-exposure hazard concentration estimates were derived for selected chemicals using empirical toxicity data. Chemical-specific 5th percentile hazard concentrations (HC5) of species sensitivity distributions (SSD) from individual exposure durations (6–96 h) were derived via bootstrap resampling and were plotted against their original exposure durations to estimate HC5s and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) at shorter exposures (1, 2, and 4 h). This approach allowed the development of short-exposure HC5s for 12 chemicals. Model verification showed agreement between observed and estimated short-exposure HC5s (r2 adjusted = 0.95, p < 0.0001), and comparison of estimated short-exposure HC5s with empirical toxicity data indicated generally conservative hazard estimates. This approach, applied to 2 real spill incidents, indicated hazard estimates above expected environmental concentrations (acrylonitrile), and suggested that environmental concentrations likely exceeded short-exposure hazard estimates (furfural). Although estimates generated through this approach were likely overprotective, these were derived from environmentally realistic exposure durations, providing risk-assessors with a tool to manage field decisions. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:1918–1927. © 2013 SETAC
Von Singles, Paaren und Familien
Authors: Fuß Daniel
Published: April 2013

Es geht um Partnerschaft, Trennung und Scheidung, um Geburten und die Beziehung zur älteren Generation — die Langzeitstudie „pairfam”︁ sammelt verlässliche Daten über das Beziehungsleben der Deutschen.
Religiöse Vielfalt — Bedrohung oder Chance?
Authors: Pollack Detlef , Friedrichs Nils
Published: April 2013

Viele Europäer beurteilen den Islam kritisch, sehen in ihm und anderen nicht‐christlichen Religionen aber dennoch eine kulturelle Bereicherung. Nicht so in Deutschland: Hier will eine große Mehrheit dem Fremden kaum Raum geben.
Pessimismus — fehl am Platz
Authors: Börsch‐Supan Axel
Published: April 2013

Menschen leben nicht nur länger, sie können auch länger produktiv sein — das sind die positiven Seiten des demografischen Wandels. Wenn wir mit diesen besser umzugehen verstehen, lassen sich die negativen Auswirkungen leichter ausgleichen.
Fühlen oder nicht fühlen?
Authors: Kunzmann Ute
Published: April 2013

Körperliche und kognitive Fähigkeiten nehmen im Laufe des Lebens ab, emotionale Kompetenzen wie die Empathie können erhalten bleiben. Eine „Gefühlswüste”︁ muss nicht sein.
Vertraute Räume
Authors: Marquardt Gesine
Published: April 2013

Wenn Menschen sich nicht mehr orientieren können, brauchen sie eine Umgebung, die auf sie zugeschnitten ist. In einem Forschungsprojekt suchen Architekten nach Konzepten und Gestaltungsempfehlungen für die eigenen vier Wände, Pflegeheime und Krankenhäuser.
The 1874–1876 volcano‐tectonic episode at Askja, North Iceland: Lateral flow revisited
Authors: Hartley Margaret E. , Thordarson Thor
Published: April 2013

The Askja volcanic system, North Iceland, experienced a volcano‐tectonic episode between 1874 and 1876, the climax of which was a rhyolitic, phreatoplinian to Plinian eruption at Askja central volcano on 28–29 March 1875. Fissure eruptions also occurred in 1875, producing the Nýjahraun lava, 45–65 km north of Askja. The Nýjahraun basalt is indistinguishable, in terms of whole‐rock major elements, from the small‐volume basaltic eruptions that took place at Askja in the early 20th century. It has been suggested that all of these basalts originated from a shallow magma chamber beneath Askja, with the Nýjahraun eruptions being fed by northward‐propagating lateral dykes. It has also been conjectured that the Holuhraun lava, located at the southern tip of the Askja volcanic system 15–25 km south of Askja, was connected with the 1874–1876 Askja volcano‐tectonic episode. We re‐examine these interpretations in light of new whole‐rock, glass and melt inclusion analyses from samples collected along the length of the Askja volcanic system. Glasses from Nýjahraun and the Askja 20th century eruptions are geochemically distinct. We suggest that the Askja 20th century basalts mixed with evolved melts in the crust, while the Nýjahraun magma evolved without such interactions. The Holuhraun basalt is more similar to lavas erupted on the Bárðarbunga‐Veiðivötn volcanic system than to postglacial basalts from Askja, indicating that particular geochemical signatures are not necessarily confined to the tectonic or structural surface expression of single volcanic systems. This has important implications for the identification and delineation of individual volcanic systems beneath the northwest sector of Vatnajökull.