bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Registration of TAM RKRNR‐9 and TAM RKRNR‐12 Germplasm Lines of Upland Cotton Resistant to Reniform and Root‐Knot Nematodes
Authors: Starr J. L. , Smith C. W. , Ripple K. , Zhou E. , Nichols R. L. , Faske T. R.
Published: August 2011

TAM RKRNR‐9 (Reg. No. GP‐941; PI 662039) and TAM RKRNR‐12 (Reg. No. CP‐942; PI 662040) with resistance to the reniform (Rotylenchulus reniformis Linford & Oliveira) and root‐knot [Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid & White) Chitwood] nematodes are noncommercial breeding lines of upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) released by Texas AgriLife Research in 2010. Both lines were derived from the cross of the root‐knot nematode resistant line M‐315 RNR (G. hirsutum L.), and the reniform nematode resistant line Tx110 (G. barbadense L.). The resistance to reniform is moderate, suppressing nematode reproduction by 40–70%. The resistance to root‐knot nematodes is high, similar to that of the M‐315 RNR parent, with more than 90% suppression of reproduction and low amounts of root galling. This unique combination of resistance to the reniform and root‐knot nematodes makes these breeding lines valuable for cotton‐breeding programs.
Differences in the scaling of area and mass of Ginkgo biloba (Ginkgoaceae) leaves and their relevance to the study of specific leaf area
Authors: Niklas Karl J. , Christianson Michael L.
Published: August 2011

• Premise of the study: The manner in which the area of the leaf lamina (A) scales with respect to the dry mass of the lamina (M) is an important functional trait that is correlated with whole‐plant growth rates and habitat preferences across diverse species. However, the extent to which the scaling between these two variables differs among leaves collected from different types of shoots within the canopy of a tree is poorly understood. Should they exist, significant differences in the A vs. M scaling relationship within canopies would raise a number of important questions, in particular what constitutes an adequate sampling procedure to determine the whole‐canopy A vs. M relationship.

•Methods: To address this issue, we used a large data set representing 13 biologically distinct categories of leaves sampled from mega‐ and microsporangiate trees of the dioecious gymnosperm Ginkgo biloba.

•Key results: Analyses of the data for these 13 categories of leaves identify seven statistically significantly different modes of A vs. M scaling that result in significant differences in how specific leaf area (SLA) changes as M varies within the canopies of Ginkgo.

•Conclusions: These results indicate that the protocols used to sample leaves for the analysis of foliar functional traits such as specific leaf area need to acknowledge and cope with the effects of leaf and shoot polymorphisms on the quantification of functional traits (and on the construction and testing of hypotheses about these traits).
Arthrodiatasis for Management of Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Aly Tarek A. , Hafez Kamal , Amin Osama
Published: August 2011

Osteoarthritic disease is the result of mechanical and biological events that destabilize the normal processes of degradation and synthesis of articular cartilage chondrocytes, extracellular matrix, and subchondral bone. Osteoarthritis of the knee can cause symptoms ranging from mild to disabling. Initial management of most patients should be nonoperative, but because of the progressive nature of the disease, many patients with osteoarthritis of the knee eventually benefit from operative treatment. Various procedures have been described for treatment of the osteoarthritic knee, ranging from arthroscopic lavage and debridement to total knee arthroplasty. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical results of distraction arthroplasty combined with arthroscopic lavage and drilling of cartilage defects for treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee.

Nineteen patients (15 women and 4 men; age range, 39–65 years) were operated on. Pre- and postoperative findings were compared. A control group comprising 42 patients treated with only arthroscopic procedures was evaluated for comparison. Follow-up ranged from 3 to 5 years. Results were evaluated both clinically and radiologically postoperatively and throughout the follow-up period. Clinically, pain and walking capacity improved in most patients. Radiologically, joint space widening and improvement of the tibiofemoral angle was noted in nearly all patients.
Long-term Outcomes Following En Bloc Resection for Sacral Tumor: A Retrospective Analysis of 93 Cases
Authors: Zhang Zhi-yu , Fu Chang-feng , Yang Ying-xin , Wang Li-qiang , Cui Yan , Liu Yi
Published: August 2011

Sacral tumors are rare. Appropriate surgical resection is crucial to treat the disease while minimizing disease recurrence. We present the results of 93 patients with sacral tumors to analyze the long-term functional and oncological results of patients undergoing en bloc resection. The medical data between January 2003 and July 2010 was retrospectively reviewed. None of the 93 patients died intra- or postoperatively. Patients undergoing intralesional curettage (range, 6500–25,000 mL; mean, 13,500 mL) lost more blood than those patients with wide excision (range, 1000–8100 mL; mean, 3590 mL). Mean follow-up duration from the time of surgery until most recent clinic visit or death was 44.5 months (range, 6–105 months). This study is an educational tool regarding primary sacral tumors and provides evidence on the treatment. It presents results from a large group of patients with sacral tumor. After follow-up, we did not find that sacrificed nerve roots and surgical margins have an impact on the recurrence of the tumor. Patients undergoing intralesional curettage lost more blood than those patients with wide excision. Postoperative bladder/bowel dysfunction was more severe for patients with removal of S1 and S2.
Osteoid Osteoma of the Great Toe
Authors: Hattori Hiroyuki , Takase Katsumi , Morohashi Akira
Published: August 2011

Osteoid osteoma is a relatively common osteoblastic lesion of benign skeletal neoplasms and occurs most commonly in the cortex of long bones, especially the femur and the tibia. Radiological characteristics are a nidus that appears as a small, relatively radiolucent zone within an area of extensive reactive sclerosis. Clinically, the lesion presents with increasing pain, is worse at night, and is relived by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Osteoid osteomas involving the phalanges of the toes are uncommon, and its accurate preoperative diagnosis is difficult due to the unique clinical and radiological features. The features in the phalanx of the toe are soft tissue swelling and a nidus frequently located in the cancellous without osteosclerosis.

This article presents a case of a 22-year-old man with osteoid osteoma in his distal phalanx of the hallux. A needle biopsy of his great toe revealed a small number of bacteria, so he was initially treated for osteomyelitis but with unsatisfactory results. The particular characteristics of clinical and imaging findings supported a diagnosis of osteoid osteoma in the distal phalanx of the hallux. After surgical removal of the tumor, his symptoms resolved. The pathological examination confirmed the suspected diagnosis.

In a patient with chronic foot pain that changes to become nocturnal and disappears with NSAID administration, it is important to include osteoid osteoma as a differential diagnosis. A detailed assessment of both clinical and radiological features can lead to the correct diagnosis, which must be confirmed with histopathological examination to ensure adequate excision.
A Hand-Powered, Portable, Low-Cost Centrifuge for Diagnosing Anemia in Low-Resource Settings
Authors: Brown Jocelyn , Theis Lauren , Kerr Lila , Zakhidova Nazima , O'Connor Kelly , Uthman Margaret , Oden Z. Maria , Richards-Kortum Rebecca
Published: August 2011

This report describes the development of a hand-powered centrifuge to determine hematocrit values in low-resource settings. A hand-powered centrifuge was constructed by using a salad spinner. Hematocrit values were measured by using the hand-powered device, and results were compared with those of a benchtop centrifuge. The packed cell volume (PCV) measured with the hand-powered device correlated linearly with results obtained with a benchtop centrifuge (r = 0.986, P < 0.001). The PCVs measured with the hand-powered centrifuge were consistently 1.14 times higher than those measured with the benchtop system. The 14% increase in PCV measured with the hand-powered centrifuge is caused by increased plasma trapped in the cell column. The reader card was adjusted to compensate for trapped plasma. A hand-powered centrifuge and calibrated reader card can be constructed for U.S. $35 and can accurately determine hematocrit values. It is suitable for use in low-resource settings because it is mechanically-powered, inexpensive, and accurate.
Development of a Semi-Field System for Contained Field Trials with Aedes aegypti in Southern Mexico
Authors: Facchinelli Luca , Valerio Laura , Bond J. Guillermo , Wise de Valdez Megan R. , Harrington Laura C. , Ramsey Janine M. , Casas-Martinez M. , Scott Thomas W.
Published: August 2011

Development of new genetic approaches to either interfere with the ability of mosquitoes to transmit dengue virus or to reduce vector population density requires progressive evaluation from the laboratory to contained field trials, before open field release. Trials in contained outdoor facilities are an important part of this process because they can be used to evaluate the effectiveness and reliability of modified strains in settings that include natural environmental variations without releasing mosquitoes into the open field. We describe a simple and cost-effective semi-field system designed to study Aedes aegypti carrying a dominant lethal gene (fsRIDL) in semi-field conditions. We provide a protocol for establishing, maintaining, and monitoring stable Ae. aegypti population densities inside field cages.
Placental Malaria and Mother-to-Child Transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 in Rural Rwanda
Authors: Bulterys Philip L. , Chao Ann , Dalai Sudeb C. , Zink M. Christine , Dushimimana Abel , Katzenstein David , Saah Alfred J. , Bulterys Marc
Published: August 2011

We conducted a nested case-control study of placental malaria (PM) and mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) within a prospective cohort of 627 mother-infant pairs followed from October 1989 until April 1994 in rural Rwanda. Sixty stored placentas were examined for PM and other placental pathology, comparing 20 HIV-infected mother-infant (perinatal transmitter) pairs, 20 HIV-uninfected pairs, and 20 HIV-infected mothers who did not transmit to their infant perinatally. Of 60 placentas examined, 45% showed evidence of PM. Placental malaria was associated with increased risk of MTCT of HIV-1 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 6.3; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.4–29.1), especially among primigravidae (aOR = 12.0; 95% CI = 1.0–150; P < 0.05). Before antiretroviral therapy or prophylaxis, PM was associated with early infant HIV infection among rural Rwandan women living in a hyper-endemic malaria region. Primigravidae, among whom malaria tends to be most severe, may be at higher risk.
Case Reports of Neuro-Chikungunya in Southern Thailand
Authors: Chusri Sarunyou , Siripaitoon Pisud , Hirunpat Siriporn , Silpapojakul Khachornsakdi
Published: August 2011

There has been a recent increase in reports of neurologic complications as major causes of morbidity and mortality in chikungunya virus infection. As a part of 2004–2009 global outbreaks, an unprecedented large chikungunya epidemic occurred in Southern Thailand during 2008–2009 in which 49,069 cases were reported. During this period, we encountered two patients with meningoencephalitis and another patient with myeloneuropathy among 1,018 cases diagnosed as chikungunya in our hospital. The clinical pictures are presented and the key points are used to recognize and differentiate chikungunya from Japanese encephalitis virus, dengue virus, and herpesvirus infections, which are more common causes of meningoencephalitis and myelitis in this region.
Urine Antibiotic Activity in Patients Presenting to Hospitals in Laos: Implications for Worsening Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: Khennavong Manisone , Davone Viengmon , Vongsouvath Manivanh , Phetsouvanh Rattanaphone , Silisouk Joy , Rattana Olay , Mayxay Mayfong , Castonguay-Vanier Josée , Moore Catrin E. , Strobel Michel , Newton Paul N.
Published: August 2011

Widespread use of antibiotics may be important in the spread of antimicrobial resistance. We estimated the proportion of Lao in- and outpatients who had taken antibiotics before medical consultation by detecting antibiotic activity in their urine added to lawns of Bacillus stearothermophilus, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus pyogenes. In the retrospective (N = 2,058) and prospective studies (N = 1,153), 49.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 47.4–52.0) and 36.2% (95% CI = 33.4–38.9), respectively, of Vientiane patients had urinary antibiotic activity detected. The highest frequency of estimated antibiotic pre-treatment was found in patients recruited with suspected central nervous system infections and community-acquired septicemia (both 56.8%). In Vientiane, children had a higher frequency of estimated antibiotic pre-treatment than adults (60.0% versus 46.5%; P < 0.001). Antibiotic use based on patients histories was significantly less frequent than when estimated from urinary antibiotic activity (P < 0.0001).
Decay and Persistence of Maternal Dengue Antibodies among Infants in Bangkok
Authors: van Panhuis Willem G. , Luxemburger Christine , Pengsaa Krisana , Limkittikul Kriengsak , Sabchareon Arunee , Lang Jean , Durbin Anna P. , Cummings Derek A. T.
Published: August 2011

Maternal dengue antibodies are important in determining the optimal age of dengue vaccination, but no study has quantified the heterogeneity of antibody decay and persistence in infants. We used longitudinal regression methods and survival analysis to measure decay and persistence times of serotype-specific neutralizing antibodies in 139 infants in Bangkok. A biphasic decay pattern was found with half-life times of 24–29 days between birth and 3 months and 44–150 days after 3 months. Atypical decay rates were found in 17% of infants for dengue virus-1 and -4. Median persistence times of plaque reduction neutralization tests > 10 ranged from 6 to 9 months. Persistence times for individuals could not be predicted based on antibody values at birth. Vaccination against dengue before 12 months of age would be ineffective if maternal antibodies at plaque reduction neutralization test levels below 80 interfere with vaccine uptake. Projections of average antibody persistence based on values at birth should be avoided in studies on dengue pathogenesis in infants.
Operative Technique for Single Incision Robot-Assisted Transaxillary Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Perrier Nancy D , Landry Christine S , Kwon David S , Grubbs Elizabeth G , Morris G Stephen , Lee Jeffrey E
Published: August 2011

During the past five years, transaxillary approaches to thyroid surgery have been introduced into surgical literature. These techniques were initially performed using traditional endoscopy, and most recently with a surgical robot. This manuscript describes our approach to robotassisted transaxillary surgery (RATS) for thyroidectomy using a single axillary incision. Because of the steep learning curve, this procedure is best implemented with a team approach. The ideal team consists of a console surgeon who operates the robot, a bedside surgeon who assists with retraction and troubleshoots robotic arm collisions and a circulating assistant who helps optimize the efficiency of the operation.
Inequality Measurement with Subgroup Decomposability and Level-Sensitivity
Authors: Subramanian Subbu
Published: August 2011

Subgroup Decomposability is a very useful property in an inequality measure, and level-sensitivity, which requires a given level of inequality to acquire a greater significance the poorer a population is, is a distributionally appealing axiom for an inequality index to satisfy. In this paper, which is largely in the nature of a recollection of important results on the characterization of subgroup decomposable inequality measures, the mutual compatibility of subgroup decomposability and level-sensitivity is examined, with specific reference to a classification of inequality measures into relative, absolute, centrist, and unit-consistent types. Arguably, the most appealing combination of properties for a symmetric, continuous, normalized, transfer-preferring and replication-invariant (S-C-N-T-R) inequality measure to satisfy is that of subgroup decomposability, centrism, unit-consistency and level-sensitivity. The existence of such an inequality index is (as far as this author is aware) yet to be established. However, it can be shown, as is done in this paper, that there does exist an S-C-NT- R measure satisfying the (plausibly) next-best combination of properties – those of decomposability, centrism, unit-consistency and level-neutrality.
Satellite- and ground-based CO total column observations over 2010 Russian fires: accuracy of top-down estimates based on thermal IR satellite data
Authors: Yurganov L. N. , Rakitin V. , Dzhola A. , August T. , Fokeeva E. , George M. , Gorchakov G. , Grechko E. , Hannon S. , Karpov A. , Ott L. , Semutnikova E. , Shumsky R. , Strow L.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. CO total column data are presented from three space sounders and two ground-based spectrometers in Moscow and its suburbs during the forest and peat fires that occurred in Central Russia in July–August 2010. Also presented are ground-based in situ CO measurements. The Moscow area was strongly impacted by the CO plume from these fires. Concurrent satellite- and ground-based observations were used to quantify the errors of CO top-down emission estimates. On certain days, CO total columns retrieved from the data of the space-based sounders were 2–3 times less than those obtained from the ground-based sun-tracking spectrometers. The depth of the polluted layer over Moscow was estimated using total column measurements compared with CO volume mixing ratios in the surface layer and on the TV tower and found to be around 360 m. The missing CO that is the average difference between the CO total column accurately determined by the ground spectrometers and that retrieved by AIRS, MOPITT, and IASI was determined for the Moscow area between 1.6 and 3.3 × 1018 molec cm−2. These values were extrapolated onto the entire plume; subsequently, the CO burden (total mass) over Russia during the fire event was corrected. A top-down estimate of the total emitted CO, obtained by a simple mass balance model increased by 40–100 % for different sensors due to this correction. Final assessments of total CO emitted by Russian wildfires obtained from different sounders are between 34 and 40 Tg CO during July–August 2010.
Detection of particles layers in backscatter profiles: application to Antarctic lidar measurements
Authors: Gazeaux J. , Bekki S. , Naveau P. , Keckhut P. , Jumelet J. , Parades J. , David C.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. A detection method is proposed and studied to infer the presence of hidden signals in a statistical way. It is applied here to the detection of Polar Stratospheric Clouds (PSC) layers in lidar backscatter profiles measured over the Dumont D'Urville station (Antarctica). PSCs appear as layers with enhanced variance in non stationary, heteroscedastic signal profiles, between two unknown altitudes to be estimated. The method is based on a three step algorithm. The first step is the stationarization of the signal, the second performs the maximum likelihoods estimation of the signal (PSC altitude range and variance inside and outside the PSC layer). The last step uses a Fisher-Snédécor test to decide whether the detection of PSC layer is statistically significant. Performances and robustness of the method are tested on simulated data with given statistical properties. Bias and detection limit are estimated. The method is then applied to lidar backscatter profiles measured in 2008. No PSC are detected during seasons when PSCs are not expected to form. As expected, PSC layers are detected during the austral winter and early spring. The effect of time averaging of the profiles is investigated. The best compromise for detection of PSC layers in lidar backscatter profiles acquired at Dumont D'Urville is a time averaging window of 1 hour typically.
Characteristics, sources and formation of aerosol oxalate in an Eastern Asia megacity and its implication to haze pollution
Authors: Jiang Y. , Zhuang G. , Wang Q. , Liu T. , Huang K. , Fu J. S. , Li J. , Lin Y. , Zhang R. , Deng C.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. A total of 238 samples of PM2.5 and TSP were analyzed to study the characteristics, sources, and formation pathways of aerosol oxalate in Shanghai in four seasons of 2007. The concentrations of oxalate were 0.07–0.41 μg m−3 in PM2.5 and 0.10–0.48 μg m−3 in TSP, respectively. Oxalate displayed a seasonal variation of autumn>summer>winter>spring in both PM2.5 and TSP and was dominantly present in PM2.5 in all samples. Correlation between oxalate and K+ and high ratio of oxalate/K+ suggested that biomass burning was a secondary source of aerosol oxalate in Shanghai, in addition to urban VOCs sources (vehicular and industrial emissions), especially in autumn. Secondary formation accounted for the majority of aerosol oxalate in Shanghai, which was supported by the high correlation of oxalate with nss-SO42−, K+ and NO3−, proceeding from different mechanisms. Relatively high ambient RH together with high cloud cover was found benefiting the secondary formation of aerosol oxalate. The in-cloud process (aqueous-phase oxidation) was proposed to be likely the major formation pathway of aerosol oxalate in Shanghai, which was supported by the high correlation of oxalate with nss-SO42− and K+ , dominant residence of oxalate in droplet mode and result of favorable meteorological condition analysis. High correlation of oxalate and NO3− reflected the OH radical involved oxidation chemistry of the two species in the atmosphere and also suggested that gas-particle surface reactions and evaporation-condensation process were both possible secondary formation pathways of aerosol oxalate in coarser particle mode (>1.0 μm). Aerosol oxalate contributed to the haze pollution and visibility degradation of the local environment. As a major water-soluble organic compound in aerosols, concentration of oxalate showed a distinct negative correlation to the atmospheric visibility, which implied that aerosol organic compounds could play an important role in air quality in Shanghai.
Seven years of global retrieval of cloud properties using space-borne data of GOME-1
Authors: Lelli L. , Kokhanovsky A. A. , Rozanov V. V. , Vountas M. , Sayer A. M. , Burrows J. P.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. We present a global and regional multi-annual (1996–2002) analysis of cloud properties (spherical albedo, optical thickness and top height) derived using measurements from the GOME-1 instrument onboard the ESA ERS-2 space platform. We focus on cloud top height (CTH), which is obtained from top-of-atmosphere backscattered solar light measurements in the O2 A-band using the Semi-Analytical CloUd Retrieval Algorithm SACURA. The physical framework relies on the asymptotic equations of radiative transfer. The dataset has been validated against independent ground- and satellite-based retrievals and is aimed to support ozone and trace-gases studies as well as to create a robust long-term climatology together with SCIAMACHY and GOME-2 ensuing retrievals. We observed the El Niño Southern Oscillation anomaly in the 1997–1998 record through CTH values over Pacific Ocean. Analytical forms of probability density functions of seasonal CTH are proposed for parameterizations in climate modeling. The global average CTH as derived from GOME-1 is 7.0 ± 1.18 km.
Impact of climate change on groundwater point discharge: backflooding of karstic springs (Loiret, France)
Authors: Joigneaux E. , Albéric P. , Pauwels H. , Pagé C. , Terray L. , Bruand A.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. Under certain hydrological conditions it is possible for spring flow in karst systems to be reversed. When this occurs, the resulting invasion by surface water, i.e. the backflooding, represents a serious threat to groundwater quality because the surface water could well be contaminated. Here we examine the possible impact of future climate change on the occurrences of backflooding in a specific karst system, having first established the occurrence of such events in the selected study area over the past 40 years. It would appear that backflooding has been more frequent since the 1980s, and that it is apparently linked to river flow variability on the pluri-annual scale. The avenue that we adopt here for studying recent and future variations of these events is based on a downscaling algorithm relating large-scale atmospheric circulation to local precipitation spatial patterns. The large-scale atmospheric circulation is viewed as a set of quasi-stationary and recurrent states, called weather types, and its variability as the transition between them. Based on a set of climate model projections, simulated changes in weather-type occurrence for the end of the century suggests that backflooding events can be expected to decrease in 2075–2099. If such is the case, then the potential risk for groundwater quality in the area will be greatly reduced compared to the current situation. Finally, our results also show the potential interest of the weather-type based downscaling approach for examining the impact of climate change on hydrological systems.
Influence of the Ringwoodite-Perovskite transition on mantle convection in spherical geometry as a function of Clapeyron slope and Rayleigh number
Authors: Wolstencroft M. , Davies J. H.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. We investigate the influence on mantle convection of the negative Clapeyron slope ringwoodite to perovskite and ferro-periclase mantle phase transition, which is correlated with the seismic discontinuity at 660 km depth. In particular, we focus on understanding the influence of the magnitude of the Clapeyron slope (as measured by the Phase Buoyancy parameter, P) and the vigour of convection (as measured by the Rayleigh number, Ra) on mantle convection. We have undertaken 76 simulations of isoviscous mantle convection in spherical geometry varying Ra and P. Three domains of behaviour were found: layered convection for high Ra and more negative P, whole mantle convection for low Ra and less negative P and transitional behaviour in an intervening domain. The boundary between the layered and transitional domain was fit by a curve P = αRaβ where α = −1.05, and β = −0.1, and the fit for the boundary between the transitional and whole mantle convection domain was α = −4.8, and β = −0.25. These two curves converge at Ra≈2.5×104 and P≈−0.38. Extrapolating to high Ra, which is likely earlier in Earth history, this work suggests a large transitional domain. It is therefore likely that convection in the Archean would have been influenced by this phase change, with Earth being at least in the transitional domain, if not the layered domain.
Novel Organic‐Inorganic Hybrid Mesoporous Silica Supported Oxo‐Vanadium Schiff Base for Selective Oxidation of Alcohols
Authors: Verma Sanny , Nandi Mahasweta , Modak Arindam , Jain Suman L. , Bhaumik Asim
Published: August 2011

Novel organic‐inorganic hybrid mesoporous materials containing diimine moieties inside the pore wall were used for the grafting of an oxo‐vanadium Schiff base complex at the mesopore surface. The prepared catalyst was found to be highly active and selective for the oxidation of a variety of primary, secondary and α‐hydroxy carbonyl compounds to the corresponding aldehydes, ketones and 1,2‐dicarbonyl compounds using tert‐butyl hydroperoxide as oxidant under mild reaction conditions. After completion of the reaction, the catalyst could easily be recovered by simple filtration and could be reused several times without significant change in the catalytic efficiency. Importantly, the catalyst did not show any leaching during the reaction, confirming that the prepared catalyst was truly heterogeneous in nature.
The Growing Impact of Catalysis in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Busacca Carl A. , Fandrick Daniel R. , Song Jinhua J. , Senanayake Chris H.
Published: August 2011

Catalysis has become increasingly important for the pharmaceutical industry. Catalysis is a critical technology that enables economical and environmentally‐sound manufacturing processes. The development of a viable catalytic process for industrial scales is a complex task that requires the collaboration of multiple disciplines. In this article, a number of selected, noteworthy industrial examples are discussed to showcase the catalytic technologies that have been successfully practiced on large scales for active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) synthesis, involving transition metal catalysis, biocatalysis and organocatalysis. In addition, several examples of potential and future catalytic transformations are included which can be utilized in pharmaceutical industry in large‐scale operational settings.
The microcephaly‐capillary malformation syndrome
Authors: Mirzaa Ghayda M. , Paciorkowski Alex R. , Smyser Christopher D. , Willing Marcia C. , Lind Anne C. , Dobyns William B.
Published: August 2011

We report on three children from two families with a new pattern recognition malformation syndrome consisting of severe congenital microcephaly (MIC), intractable epilepsy including infantile spasms, and generalized capillary malformations that was first reported recently in this journal [Carter et al. (2011); Am J Med Genet A 155: 301–306]. Two of our reported patients are an affected brother and sister, suggesting this is an autosomal recessive severe congenital MIC syndrome. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Maternal age and prevalence of isolated congenital heart defects in an urban area of the United States
Authors: Miller Assia , Riehle‐Colarusso Tiffany , Siffel Csaba , Frías Jaime L. , Correa Adolfo
Published: August 2011

Although maternal age has been associated with a number of birth defects in several reports, the literature on the association of maternal age with isolated congenital heart defect (CHD) phenotypes has been limited. We evaluated CHD prevalence based on a cohort of 5,289 infants and fetuses with isolated CHDs born during the period 1968–2005 and ascertained by the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program (MACDP) among residents of five central counties in Atlanta. For our denominator, we obtained information on births to residents of the same counties from vital records (n = 1,301,143). We calculated prevalence ratios for 23 CHD phenotypes by several maternal age categories, using the group 25–29 years of age as a reference group. We used Poisson regression models to estimate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), controlling for maternal race, infant sex, and birth cohort. A maternal age of 35 years or older was associated with an increased prevalence for several CHD phenotypes: laterality defects (aPR = 2.06; CI 1.22–3.48), all conotruncal defects (aPR = 1.30; CI 1.03–1.65), and specifically for dextro‐transposition of the great arteries (aPR = 1.65; CI 1.10–2.48), coarctation of the aorta (aPR = 1.54; CI 1.10–2.16), ventricular septal defects (aPR = 1.20; CI 1.06–1.36), and atrial septal defects (aPR = 1.36; CI 1.05–1.77). Our findings suggest that the birth prevalence of specific isolated CHDs varies with maternal age. Further studies are warranted to corroborate these observations, taking into account potential confounding by known modifiable risk factors. Published 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Potential teratogenic effects of allopurinol: A case report
Authors: Kozenko Mariya , Grynspan David , Oluyomi‐Obi Titi , Sitar Daniel , Elliott Alison M. , Chodirker Bernard N.
Published: August 2011

We report on a case of a multiple congenital anomalies in a newborn infant whose mother was on allopurinol treatment through the pregnancy. The pattern of congenital anomalies that was noted in our patient was similar to the pattern described in a number of published reports following mycophenolate mofetil [CellCept®] treatment during pregnancy. The anomalies present in our patient include: diaphragmatic hernia, unilateral microtia and absence of external auditory canal, micrognathia, microphthalmia, optic nerve hypoplasia, hypoplasia of the corpus callosum, unilateral renal agenesis, pulmonary agenesis, and cleft lip and palate. Since both allopurinol and mycophenolate mofetil act by disrupting purine biosynthesis and given the similarities in anomalies seen after prenatal exposure, we suggest that allopurinol should also be considered a teratogen. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Are our Frontline Clinicians Equipped with the Ability and Confidence to Address Child Abuse and Neglect?
Authors: Raman Shanti , Holdgate Anna , Torrens Rebecca
Published: August 2011

Previous studies have suggested that child abuse and neglect (CAN) is under recognised and under reported. Our aims were to examine and compare child protection (CP) knowledge, confidence and practice of frontline clinicians in general practice and hospital settings in South Western Sydney (SWS). We surveyed doctors and nurses in general practice and in the emergency department (ED) in a district in SWS using a validated questionnaire. Of the 113 responses, 62 were general practitioners (GPs), 9 practice nurses, 26 ED nurses and 16 ED doctors. The confidence level with identifying CAN was moderate, with a significant difference between groups. The majority (59%) had made previous CP reports, few suspected but decided not to report; reporting rates differed significantly. A majority (80%) reported some CP training; of the 22 with no training, 21 were GPs and practice nurses. Of those reporting some training, more than 70 per cent of ED nurses, GPs and practice nurses felt their training was inadequate, compared with 19 per cent of ED doctors. There are significant differences in confidence and practice between frontline clinicians in primary care and ED. Targeted CP training should be provided for all frontline clinicians with particular emphasis on primary care GPs. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘We surveyed doctors and nurses in general practice and in the emergency department’

‘There are significant differences in confidence and practice between front‐line clinicians in primary care and ED’
Two‐dimensional flow past circular cylinders using finite volume lattice Boltzmann formulation
Authors: Patil D. V. , Lakshmisha K. N.
Published: August 2011

In this article, an extension to the total variation diminishing finite volume formulation of the lattice Boltzmann equation method on unstructured meshes was presented. The quadratic least squares procedure is used for the estimation of first‐order and second‐order spatial gradients of the particle distribution functions. The distribution functions were extrapolated quadratically to the virtual upwind node. The time integration was performed using the fourth‐order Runge–Kutta procedure. A grid convergence study was performed in order to demonstrate the order of accuracy of the present scheme. The formulation was validated for the benchmark two‐dimensional, laminar, and unsteady flow past a single circular cylinder. These computations were then investigated for the low Mach number simulations. Further validation was performed for flow past two circular cylinders arranged in tandem and side‐by‐side. Results of these simulations were extensively compared with the previous numerical data. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibition of β‐catenin signaling in chondrocytes induces delayed fracture healing in mice
Authors: Huang Yang , Zhang Xiaoling , Du Kewei , Yang Fei , Shi Yu , Huang Jingang , Tang Tingting , Chen Di , Dai Kerong
Published: August 2011

Appropriate and controlled chondrogenesis and endochondral ossification play fundamental roles in the fracture healing cascade, a regenerative process involved in highly coordinated biological events, including the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. To examine the role and importance of this pathway in chondrocytes, we studied bone repair of closed tibias fractures in Col2a1‐ICAT transgenic mice, in which the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway is specially inhibited in chondrocytes. Radiological, histological, and histomorphometric analyses at 7, 9, 12, 14, 21, and 28 days after fracture demonstrated the bone repairs were retarded in Col2a1‐ICAT transgenic mice, due to reduced and delayed cartilage formation, chondrocyte hypertrophy, and bone generation. In addition, at 5 weeks, Col2a1‐ICAT transgenic mice exhibited a weak mechanical tolerance to four‐point bending. Furthermore, quantitative‐PCR analysis revealed that the expression of genes associated specifically with cartilage extracellular matrix formation (collagen II, collagen X, and mmp13), bone remodeling (alp, collagen I, and osteocalcin), and vascular extravagation (vegf), and transcriptional activators involved in cartilage generation and ossification (sox9 and runx2) was decreased and delayed in the fracture sites of Col2a1‐ICAT transgenic mice during healing. Collectively, these results suggest that Wnt/β‐catenin signaling is critical for fracture healing, especially with respect to chondrogenesis and endochondral ossification. Thus, our study provides insight into the possible mechanisms of and therapeutic targets for improving normal facture repair and the healing of non‐union fractures. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:304–310, 2012
13C shielding scale for MAS NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Jackowski Karol , Makulski Włodzimierz
Published: August 2011

We have performed the direct measurements of 13C magnetic shielding for pure liquid TMS, solution of 1% TMS in CDCl3 and solid fullerene. The measurements were carried out in spherical ampoules exploring the relation between the resonance frequencies, shielding constants and magnetic moments of 13C and 3He nuclei. Next the 13C shielding constants of glycine, hexamethylbenzene and adamantane were established on the basis of appropriate chemical shifts measured in the solid state. All the new results are free from susceptibility effects and can be recommended as the reference standards of 13C shielding scale in the magic angle spinning NMR experiments. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal properties of hyperbranched polyborate functionalized multiwall carbon nanotube/polybenzoxazine composites
Authors: Liu Yuhong , Wang Biao , Jing Xinli
Published: August 2011

Using a noncovalent functionalization strategy, hyperbranched polyborate (HBb) acts as a solubilizer for carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and a stable HBb‐CNT dispersion in N‐methyl‐pyrrolidone was produced. The thermal properties of the resulting HBb‐CNT/polybenzoxazine (B‐BOZ) composites and their carbonized structures were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that the fracture surface of HBb‐CNT/B‐BOZ composites was rather rough and plenty of plastic deformation was exhibited. Thermogravimetric analysis indicates an improvement in the thermal stability of the composite with CNTs, especially that of 2.0 wt% CNT modified composite. The increase in the thermal stability is due to the good nanotube dispersion and the effective polymer‐CNT interaction. Graphite‐like boron carbonitride ceramic compounds were found after the composites were carbonized at 1,100°C for 2 h, and there was more B‐C, B‐N, and C‐N bonds in the carbonized HBb‐CNT/B‐BOZ composite than that of HBb/B‐BOZ composite. The result implied that CNTs can promote the ceramic process of HBb/B‐BOZ composite, and the strategy of introducing ceramic precursor into polymer composites may be useful to improve their ablation properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Subgroup identification from randomized clinical trial data
Authors: Foster Jared C. , Taylor Jeremy M.G. , Ruberg Stephen J.
Published: August 2011

We consider the problem of identifying a subgroup of patients who may have an enhanced treatment effect in a randomized clinical trial, and it is desirable that the subgroup be defined by a limited number of covariates. For this problem, the development of a standard, pre‐determined strategy may help to avoid the well‐known dangers of subgroup analysis. We present a method developed to find subgroups of enhanced treatment effect. This method, referred to as ‘Virtual Twins’, involves predicting response probabilities for treatment and control ‘twins’ for each subject. The difference in these probabilities is then used as the outcome in a classification or regression tree, which can potentially include any set of the covariates. We define a measure to be the difference between the treatment effect in estimated subgroup and the marginal treatment effect. We present several methods developed to obtain an estimate of , including estimation of using estimated probabilities in the original data, using estimated probabilities in newly simulated data, two cross‐validation‐based approaches, and a bootstrap‐based bias‐corrected approach. Results of a simulation study indicate that the Virtual Twins method noticeably outperforms logistic regression with forward selection when a true subgroup of enhanced treatment effect exists. Generally, large sample sizes or strong enhanced treatment effects are needed for subgroup estimation. As an illustration, we apply the proposed methods to data from a randomized clinical trial. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Pre‐test Genetic Counseling for Deaf Adults on Knowledge of Genetic Testing
Authors: Baldwin Erin E. , Boudreault Patrick , Fox Michelle , Sinsheimer Janet S. , Palmer Christina G. S.
Published: August 2011

Empirical data on genetic counseling outcomes in the deaf population are needed to better serve this population. This study was an examination of genetics knowledge before and after culturally and linguistically appropriate pre‐test genetic counseling in a diverse deaf adult sample. Individuals ≥18 years old with early‐onset sensorineural deafness were offered connexin‐26/30 testing and genetic counseling. Participants completed questionnaires containing 10 genetics knowledge items at baseline and following pre‐test genetic counseling. The effects of genetic counseling, prior beliefs about etiology, and participant's preferred language on genetics knowledge scores were assessed (n = 244). Pre‐test genetic counseling (p = .0007), language (p < .0001), prior beliefs (p < .0001), and the interaction between counseling and beliefs (p = .035) were predictors of genetics knowledge. American Sign Language (ASL)‐users and participants with “non‐genetic/unknown” prior beliefs had lower knowledge scores than English‐users and participants with “genetic” prior beliefs, respectively. Genetics knowledge improved after genetic counseling regardless of participants’ language; knowledge change was greater for the “non‐genetic/unknown” beliefs group than the “genetic” beliefs group. ASL‐users’ lower knowledge scores are consistent with evidence that ethnic and cultural minority groups have less genetics knowledge, perhaps from exposure and access disparities. Culturally and linguistically appropriate pre‐test genetic counseling significantly improved deaf individuals’ genetics knowledge. Assessing deaf individuals’ prior beliefs is important for enhancing genetics knowledge.
Enzymatic Interesterification of Palm Oil and Fractions: Monitoring the Degree of Interesterification using Different Methods
Authors: De Clercq Nathalie , Danthine Sabine , Nguyen Mai Tuyet , Gibon Veronique , Dewettinck Koen
Published: August 2011

Interesterification is an important modification technique for fats and oils resulting in the redistribution of the fatty acids among the glycerol backbone and thus changing the physico‐chemical properties of the modified fat. In this study palm oil, palm olein and soft palm mid fraction (PMF) were subjected to both enzymatic (batchwise) and chemical interesterification. The reaction products were characterized before, during and after interesterification by HPLC, pulsed NMR (p‐NMR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Interesterification led to more uniform triacylglycerol (TAG) compositions with smaller differences in final physico‐chemical properties between the studied substrates. The degree of interesterification was evaluated on the basis of TAG composition and solid fat content (SFC). Significant differences between both methods were observed. The degree of interesterification based on SFC is therefore a better tool to evaluate the rate constant of the reaction as the TAG composition method does not take into consideration the formation of positional isomers at the end of the enzymatic process.
The Structure and Genesis of Copland'sQuiet City
Authors: KLEPPINGER STANLEY V.
Published: August 2011

Aaron Copland'sQuiet City(1940), a one-movement work for trumpet, cor anglais, and strings, derives from incidental music the composer wrote for an unsuccessful and now forgotten Irwin Shaw play. This essay explores in detail the pitch structure of the concert work, suggesting dramatic parallels between the music and Shaw's play.

The opening of the piece hinges on an anhemitonic pentatonic collection, which becomes the source of significant pitch centres for the whole composition, in that the most prominent pitch classes of each section, when taken together, replicate the collection governing the music's first and last bars. Both this principle and the exceptions to it suggest a correspondence to the internal struggles of Shaw's protagonist, Gabriel Mellon.

In addition,Quiet Cityoffers a distinctive opportunity to observe the composer's assembly of a unified tonal structure. Sketch study makes it possible to observe the composer altering his original material in ways that reinforce tonal connections across the span of the piece.
Tsunami signature in the ionosphere: A simulation of OTH radar observations
Authors: Coïsson Pierdavide , Occhipinti Giovanni , Lognonné Philippe , Molinié Jean‐Philippe , Rolland Lucie M.
Published: August 2011

In the last ten years ionospheric anomalies following major earthquakes and tsunamis have been detected. Global Positioning System (GPS) and altimeters have been proven effective for this purpose, through Total Electron Content (TEC) measurement. Most of these ionospheric anomalies are deterministic and reproducible by numerical modeling via the coupling mechanism through ocean, neutral atmosphere and ionosphere. Numerical modeling supplies also useful support in the estimation of expected ionospheric effects and in the exploration and identification of new techniques to detect ionospheric tsunami signatures. We explore here a new ground‐based technique, nominally the use of over‐the‐horizon (OTH) radars, for tsunami detection through ionospheric monitoring. OTH radars operate in High Frequency (HF) band and sounding the bottomside ionosphere they could anticipate the detection of tsunami‐driven Internal Gravity Waves (IGW). To validate this hypothesis, we use HF numerical ray‐tracing to simulate synthetic OTH radar measurements through a 3D tsunami‐driven IGW ionospheric model. Our simulations clearly identify the tsunami signature in the OTH radar measurements one hour and a half before the tsunami arrival on the coast. The large coverage of OTH radar and its sensitivity to plasma anomalies open new perspectives in the oceanic monitoring and future tsunami warning systems.