bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A spatial rank‐based multivariate EWMA control chart
Authors: Zou Changliang , Wang Zhaojun , Tsung Fugee
Published: February 2012

Nonparametric control charts are useful in statistical process control when there is a lack of or limited knowledge about the underlying process distribution, especially when the process measurement is multivariate. This article develops a new multivariate self‐starting methodology for monitoring location parameters. It is based on adapting the multivariate spatial rank to on‐line sequential monitoring. The weighted version of the rank‐based test is used to formulate the charting statistic by incorporating the exponentially weighted moving average control scheme. It is robust to non‐normally distributed data, easy to construct, fast to compute and also very efficient in detecting multivariate process shifts, especially small or moderate shifts which occur when the process distribution is heavy‐tailed or skewed. As it avoids the need for a lengthy data‐gathering step before charting and it does not require knowledge of the underlying distribution, the proposed control chart is particularly useful in start‐up or short‐run situations. A real‐data example from white wine production processes shows that it performs quite well. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 59: 91–110, 2012
Optimization of the synthesis of polyhydroxyurethanes using dynamic rheometry
Authors: Benyahya Sofia , Boutevin Bernard , Caillol Sylvain , Lapinte Vincent , Habas Jean‐Pierre
Published: February 2012

Polyhydroxyurethanes (PHUs) produced by the reaction between dicyclocarbonate and diamine groups are often presented as possible candidates to substitute for classical polyurethanes based on isocyanate precursors. In the literature, the synthesis of this class of polymers is often performed according to arbitrary conditions of time and temperature without any scientific justification. As such, the real potential of PHUs is probably not fully known. Numerous contradictions in previously published results seem to support this hypothesis. Our paper proposes two methodologies based on dynamic rheometry to determine optimized conditions for the synthesis of PHUs. The case of a PHU formed by the reaction between 1,10‐diaminodecane and a dicyclocarbonate bearing a central aromatic group is described more precisely. The first approach consists of conducting various rheological experiments (kinetics, thermomechanical analyses) in situ on the reaction mixture. The second one retains the same technique to qualify the viscoelastic properties of PHUs synthesized according to various conditions. In this latter case, all samples show thermomechanical behaviour of amorphous thermoplastic polymers. But discrepancies are observed with regard to the value of the glass transition temperature and the existence or not of a rubbery zone. Comparison of these data with size exclusion chromatography results shows that these differences are direct consequences of the polymer molecular weight that can be predicted using macromolecular theory. The properties of the PHUs obtained after optimization of the polymerization reaction were compared with literature data in order to complete the evaluation of the efficiency of the rheological methodology. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Integrating care: a new model of service delivery for complex cases
Authors: Young Venetia
Published: February 2012

With GPs now responsible for commissioning care in many areas, this provides opportunities for developing new models of delivering multidisciplinary care. Dr Young, Trustee of Primhe, explains how complex cases could be better managed if mental health services operated from GP surgeries. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crosslinked polynorbornene particles synthesis by ring‐opening metathesis polymerization in dispersion
Authors: Le Meur Anne‐Claire , Aymonier Cyril , Heroguez Valérie
Published: February 2012

This article proposes the first report on the synthesis of nanometric crosslinked polynorbornene particles by ring‐opening metathesis polymerization in dispersion using ruthenium‐based complex (PCy3)2Cl2RuCHPh as initiator. Stable but raspberry‐shaped particles were obtained. In this study, a particular attention was paid to the influence of the crosslinker nature and addition mode on reaction kinetics and morphology of the latex particles. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Poly(ethylene glycol)–poly(L‐lactide) star block copolymer hydrogels crosslinked by metal–ligand coordination
Authors: Buwalda Sytze J. , Dijkstra Pieter J. , Feijen Jan
Published: February 2012

The aqueous solution behavior and thermoreversible gelation properties of pyridine‐end‐functionalized poly(ethylene glycol)–poly(L‐lactide) (PEG–(PLLA)8–py) star block copolymers in the presence of coordinating transition metal ions were studied. In aqueous solutions, the macromonomers self‐assembled into micelles and micellar aggregates at low concentrations and formed physically crosslinked, thermoreversible hydrogels above a critical gel concentration (CGC) of 8% w/v. In the presence of transition metal ions like Cu(II), Co(II), or Mn(II), the aggregate dimensions increased. Above the CGC, the gel–sol transition shifted to higher temperatures due to the formation of additional crosslinks from intermolecular coordination complexes between metal ions and pyridine ligands. Furthermore, as an example, PEG–(PLLA)8–py hydrogels stabilized by Mn(II)–pyridine coordination complexes were more resistant against degradation/dissolution when placed in phosphate buffered saline at 37 °C when compared with hydrogels prepared in water. Importantly, the stabilizing effect of metal–ligand coordination was noticeable at very low Cu(II) concentrations, which have been reported to be noncytotoxic for fibroblasts in vitro. These novel PEG–(PLLA)8–py metallo‐hydrogels, which are the first systems to combine metal–ligand coordination with the advantageous properties of PEG–PLLA copolymer hydrogels, are appealing materials that may find use in biomedical as well as environmental applications like the removal of heavy metal ions from waste streams. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
A novel polymerization approach via thiol‐yne addition
Authors: Türünç Oğuz , Meier Michael A. R.
Published: February 2012

The ability of thiyl radicals to add to terminal unsaturations in an efficient way made them considered being one of the click reactions. Recently, thiol‐yne addition reactions have been used extensively for the synthesis of crosslinked networks and dendrimers and postpolymerization functionalization protocols. Herein, we report a novel step‐growth type reaction for highly functional linear polymers using a monoalkyne and dithiol compound. First, we investigated the model reaction between 1‐octyne and 1‐octanethiol as well as 1,4‐butanedithiol compounds, which were initiated via self‐, thermal‐, and UV‐initiation; the UV‐initiation was found to be the most efficient method and completed within 2‐h reaction time. The same conditions were applied for the polymerization of four different functional alkynes bearing different functional groups with two dithiol compounds. All polymerizations resulted in highly functional linear polymers with number averaged molecular weights ranging from 5 to 30 kDa, except for propargylic acid and its methyl ester, where only oligomers formed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
3,6‐Dialkylthieno[3,2‐b]thiophene moiety as a soluble and electron donating unit preserving the coplanarity of photovoltaic low band gap copolymers
Authors: Biniek Laure , Chochos Christos L. , Leclerc Nicolas , Boyron Olivier , Fall Sadiara , Lévèque Patrick , Heiser Thomas
Published: February 2012

It has been shown recently, that the presence of alkyl side chains at the 3‐positions on the thiophene rings placed next to 2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole core in the backbone of several conjugated polymers results in severe steric hindrance and prevents efficient planarity of the thiophene‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole‐thiophene (TBzT) segment. Both properties have a strong influence on the optoelectronic properties of the polymer and need to be considered when the polymer is to be used for organic electronics applications. In this work, we modified a previously synthesized oligothiophene copolymer, consisting of two 3,4′‐dialkyl‐2,2′‐bithiophene units attached to a 2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole unit (TBzT segment) and a thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene unit, by optimizing the lateral alkyl side chains following a density functional theory investigation. It is demonstrated that eliminating the alkyl side chains from the 3‐positions of the TBzT segment and anchoring them onto the thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene, using an efficient synthesis of the 3,6‐dihexylthieno[3,2‐b]thiophene unit, allows us to reduce the energy band gap. In addition, the chemical modification leads to a better charge transport and to an enhanced photovoltaic efficiency of polymer/fullerene blends. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Effect of amplitude and inspiratory time in a bench model of non‐invasive HFOV through nasal prongs
Authors: De Luca Daniele , Piastra Marco , Pietrini Domenico , Conti Giorgio
Published: February 2012

Background and objectives

Non‐invasive high frequency oscillatory ventilation through nasal prongs (nHFOV) has been proposed to combine the advantages of oscillatory pressure waveform and non‐invasive interface. We studied the effect of oscillation amplitude and inspiratory time on the pressure transmission and tidal volume delivery through different nasal prongs.

Methods

In vitro mechanical study on a previously described bench model of nHFOV. The model was built connecting SM3100A tubings to a neonatal lung model, via two differently sized binasal prongs. A circuit with no nasal prongs was used as control. Tidal volume (Tv), oscillatory pressure ratio (ΔPdist/ΔPprox), and ventilation (DCO2) were measured across a range of amplitudes and inspiratory times (IT). Measurements were performed with a low‐dead space hot wire anemometer coupled with a pressure transducer.

Results

Using both nasal prongs, Tv, ΔPdist/ΔPprox, and DCO2 were 83%, 40%, and 71%, respectively, of those provided with the control circuit. No differences were noticed between small and large prongs. Tv and ΔPprox were linked by a quadratic relationship. Tv plateaus for amplitude values >65 cmH2O. ΔPdist/ΔPprox shows same tendency. Same results were obtained with both types of prongs and with increasing IT. On the whole, mean Tv was higher with IT at 50% than at 33% (2.4 ml vs. 1.4 ml; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Changing oscillation amplitude and IT has a significant effect on ventilation. Varying these two parameters provides a theoretical Tv within the ideal values for HFOV also using the smallest nasal prongs. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012. 47:1012–1018. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Non‐invasive ventilation for severe bronchiolitis: Analysis and evidence
Authors: Lazner Michaela R. , Basu Anna P. , Klonin Hilary
Published: February 2012

Objectives

(1) To examine whether infants with severe bronchiolitis, fulfilling criteria for further respiratory support, could be managed outside a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) with non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) alone. (2) To study the characteristics, clinical course and outcome of NIV responders and non responders to assess safety and efficacy and inform guideline construction.

Hypothesis

Infants with severe bronchiolitis can be safely managed with NIV outside a PICU.

Study Design

Retrospective case review.

Patient Selection

Cohort of infants with objective evidence of severe bronchiolitis requiring respiratory support nursed in a Pediatric High Dependency Unit (PHDU) and/or Intensive Care Unit (ICU) between 2001 and 2007.

Methodology

Analysis of patient characteristics and respiratory parameters at admission and initiation of ventilation, changes after 2 and 4 hr of NIV or invasive ventilation, complications, short and long‐term outcomes were analyzed.

Results

One thousand and thirty‐five infants with bronchiolitis were admitted with 67 ventilation episodes identified from 65 patients. Fifty‐five episodes, including 34 with apnea, were treated exclusively with NIV. Six infants failed to respond and were invasively ventilated. Six patients were invasively ventilated at presentation. Non‐responders had a significantly higher rate of bacterial infection. Significant improvements in respiratory parameters in responders occurred by 2 hr and sustained at 4 hr. Duration of hospital stay, ventilation requirement and oxygen requirement were significantly shorter in responders. Short and longer‐term follow up data did not identify any adverse effects related to NIV.

Conclusions

NIV was effective in 80% of infants receiving respiratory support for severe bronchiolitis. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012. 47:909–916. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lung function at follow‐up of infants with surgically correctable anomalies
Authors: Prendergast Michael , Rafferty Gerrard F. , Milner Anthony D. , Broughton Simon , Davenport Mark , Jani Jacques , Nicolaides Kypros , Greenough Anne
Published: February 2012

Infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) or anterior wall defects (AWD) can suffer abnormal antenatal lung growth, the risk, however, may be greater for CDH infants. The objectives of this study were to test the hypothesis that following surgical correction, CDH infants would have worse lung function at follow‐up than AWD infants and to determine whether fetal lung volume (FLV) results correlated with the lung function results at follow‐up.

Thirteen infants with CDH and 13 infants with AWD had lung function measurements at a median age of 11 (range 6–24) months; 17 of the infants had had their FLV assessed.

Lung function was assessed by plethysmographic measurement of lung volume (FRCpleth) and airway resistance (Raw). In addition, functional residual capacity was assessed by a helium gas dilution technique (FRCHe); tidal breathing parameters (TPTEF:Te) and compliance and resistance of the respiratory system (Crs and Rrs, respectively) were also determined. FLV was assessed using three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound and virtual organ computer aided analysis.

The CDH compared to the AWD infants had a higher median FRCpleth (41 ml/kg vs. 37 ml/kg, P = 0.043) and a lower median Crs (1.45 ml/cm H2O/kg vs. 2.78 ml/cm H2O/kg, P = 0.041). FRCpleth results correlated significantly with FLV results (r = 0.721, P < 0.001).

In conclusion, infants with CDH had significantly different lung function at follow‐up than AWD infants. Our findings suggest FLV results may predict lung function abnormalities at follow‐up in infants with surgically correctable anomalies. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012. 47:973–978. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantification of shape of flow‐volume loop of healthy preschool children and preschool children with wheezing disorders
Authors: Nève Véronique , Matran Régis , Baquet Georges , Methlin Catherine‐Marie , Delille Christelle , Boulenguez Charles , Edmé Jean‐Louis
Published: February 2012

Background

The earliest change associated with airflow obstruction in small airways is reflected in a concave shape on the maximum expiratory flow‐volume loop (MEFVL). The shape of the MEFL changes with age but reference values for curvilinearity indices (CI) for preschool children have not been published. We aimed to describe the normal curvilinearity of healthy preschool MEFVL by CI (the β angle and the ratio of maximum expiratory flow when 50% of forced vital capacity remains to be expired/peak expiratory flow (MEF50%/PEF)) and to test their capacity in detecting concavity in preschool children with wheezing disorders.

Methods

Spirometric data were obtained from 132 healthy preschool children and 171 3‐to‐5‐year‐old preschool children with wheezing disorders and reference values for CI calculated.

Results

Mean (SD) β angle of healthy children was 203° (16°) and mean MEF50%/PEF of healthy children was 0.71 (0.12) indicating convexity of MEFVL, both decreased with increasing age (P = 10−4). Children with wheezing disorders had lower z‐score values of CI (P ≤ 10−6) indicating more concave MEFVL. Among the two CI, MEF50%/PEF allowed for the best discrimination between healthy children and children with wheezing disorders (Wilks' lambda = 0.898, P = 10−7).

Conclusion

These CI can detect and quantify the concavity of the descending limb of the MEFVL in preschool children with wheezing disorders, MEF50%/PEF having the highest sensitivity in detecting the concavity. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012. 47:884–894. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of alloy fluctuations on the local polarization in nitride nanostructures
Authors: Caro Miguel A. , Schulz Stefan , O'Reilly Eoin P.
Published: February 2012

We present a classical dipole model, in combination with first‐principles calculations, to study the local polarization, as well as the polarization potential, in InGaN alloys. Our results are in excellent agreement with previous ab initio calculations in the macroscopic limit and, in addition, offer an insight into the microscopic origin of the previous results, in particular the strong relation between internal strain and the upward bowing in the spontaneous polarization of InGaN. This model can be generalized to any piezoelectric material, and in particular to AlInN and AlGaN alloys.
Risk‐based decision making in a scientific issue: A study of teachers discussing a dilemma through a microworld
Authors: Levinson Ralph , Kent Phillip , Pratt David , Kapadia Ramesh , Yogui Cristina
Published: February 2012

Risk has now become a feature of science curricula in many industrialized countries. While risk is conceptualized within a number of different theoretical frameworks, the predominant model used in examination specifications is a utility model in which risk calculations are deemed to be objective through technical expert assessment and where the perceptions of individual actors can be corrected by appropriate rationalization of action and thought. However, research studies and other theories on risk suggest that a utility‐based approach fails to take into account social, experiential, and cultural factors, which frame what is considered to be risky. Our research study with science and mathematics teachers deploys a microworld, “Deborah's dilemma,'' which presents a decision‐making process involving probabilistic estimates in which teachers construct their own personal models of risk. Teachers were recorded in dialogue while working through the microworld. Inductive coding of the dialogue and interactions with the microworld show that teachers' decisions on risk have a rational underpinning, but that use of data and information only becomes coherent and comprehensible within the explicated values of decision makers. We suggest that designing programs on learning about risk in science must incorporate the opportunity to make values explicit and coordination of different dimensions of risk. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed 96:212–233, 2012
Contrary Effects of Microstructure and Cleanliness on Tensile and Toughness Properties in Precipitation Hardening Stainless Steels
Authors: Nick Eva‐Maria , Müller Merle G. J. , Voigt Sally G. , Park Daesung , Reinholdt Alexander , Schwedt Alexander , Weirich Thomas E. , Bleck Wolfgang , Münstermann Sebastian
Published: February 2012

A detailed microstructural analysis on two precipitation hardening steels of similar chemical composition and of identical heat treatment but with different microstructures and mechanical properties was performed to reveal the constituents that are of major importance for strength and toughness. Light optical microscopy, magnetic saturation measurements, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, scanning and transmission electron microscopy were used to identify and quantify the internal cleanliness, the secondary phases (δ‐ferrite, retained austenite), and the copper‐rich precipitates. The high purity and homogeneity of the steel's microstructure proved to be beneficial for upper shelf toughness and general isotropic behavior. In contrast, good elongation depended on local element segregation, allowing the stabilization of austenite to ambient temperature. The precipitation of copper‐enriched inter‐metallic phase was documented both in the martensitic matrix and in the δ‐ferrite; it ensured – for given heat treatment – sufficient yield strength independent of other microstructural constituents.
A new control algorithm to protect nonlinear base‐isolated structures against earthquakes
Authors: Khoshnoudian Faramarz , Mehrparvar Behnam
Published: February 2012

Currently, nonlinear base isolation systems are widely used in the construction of earthquake resistant structures. However, they are found to be vulnerable in near‐fault regions as a result of long‐period pulses that may exist in near‐source ground motions. Various control strategies including passive, active and semi‐active control systems have been studied in order to handle this issue. In this study, a semi‐active control algorithm based on the different performance levels anticipated from an isolated building during different levels of ground shaking was developed. The proposed performance‐based algorithm is based on a modified version of the well‐known semi‐active skyhook control algorithm. A series of analyses were performed on the base‐isolated benchmark building, suggested by the American Society of Civil Engineers committee, subject to seven pairs of scaled ground‐motion records. The results proved that the new control algorithm is successful in improving structural and nonstructural performance of isolated buildings under near‐fault earthquakes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐dimensional power Doppler ultrasound for the study of cervical cancer and precancerous lesions
Authors: Belitsos P. , Papoutsis D. , Rodolakis A. , Mesogitis S. , Antsaklis A.
Published: February 2012

Objective

To evaluate the blood flow characteristics of the cervix in normal women and in women with cervical precancerous lesions or cervical cancer.

Methods

We studied 165 women with three‐dimensional power Doppler ultrasound (3D‐PDU), of whom 71 had cervical cancer, 61 had precancerous lesions and 33 were healthy controls. The cervix was manually traced in the stored volumes using 15° rotation steps and the following 3D‐PDU indices were calculated: vascularization index (VI), flow index (FI) and vascularization flow index (VFI). These indices were compared among the study groups and were also correlated with features of the precancerous lesions group and cancer group.

Results

The three indices were all statistically significantly higher in the cervical cancer group and precancerous lesions group than in controls (P < 0.001). In addition, significantly higher values of all indices were found in the cervical cancer group than in the precancerous lesions group (P < 0.001). Further analysis according to patient characteristics in the cancer group showed that VI, FI and VFI were not significantly different in relation to grade, histology, presence of positive lymph nodes or lymphovascular space involvement (P > 0.05). However, VI was significantly higher in patients with Stages IIIB–IV cancer than in patients with less advanced disease (P = 0.045). In the cervical cancer group there was a significant positive correlation between 3D‐PDU indices and cervical volume.

Conclusion

3D‐PDU assessment of the cervix reveals significant differences in all indices studied between women with cervical precancerous lesions or cancer and healthy women. In women with cervical cancer, an advanced stage is associated with higher VI, but 3D‐PDU indices are not related to other pathological characteristics. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mitigating plague risk in utah prairie dogs: Evaluation of a systemic flea‐control product
Authors: Jachowski David S. , Brown Nathanael L. , Wehtje Morgan , Tripp Daniel W. , Millspaugh Joshua J. , Gompper Matthew E.
Published: February 2012

Plague, the disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is a major threat to the Utah prairie dog (Cynomys parvidens), a species listed as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Fleas are the primary vectors of plague, and flea control can stop the spread of plague epizootics and increase Utah prairie dog survival. We evaluated a newly developed grain‐bait insecticide treated with the active ingredient imidacloprid. In 2009, we conducted a single application of the product in treatment plots within each of 4 study sites and sampled fleas from captured Utah prairie dogs on treatment and control plots at monthly intervals. We observed mixed results; the product generally was effective at reducing flea prevalence, abundance, and intensity on prairie dogs at some sites and not at others, and the effectiveness within a site varied over time. In 2010, we doubled the amount of bait on treatment plots, yet we still failed to observe a consistent decline in flea prevalence, abundance, and intensity on prairie dogs. At the application rates we evaluated, the imidacloprid product is likely not as effective at controlling fleas on Utah prairie dogs as the more commonly used topical insecticide containing deltamethrin. However, managers should also consider the risk of flea species developing resistance following the repeated application of a single flea‐control product. Furthermore, because we observed a higher than expected diversity of flea species (8) on Utah prairie dogs, future work should be undertaken to investigate how other mammalian host species might mediate flea population dynamics, plague ecology, and the outcome of flea management approaches. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
EGFR and myosin II inhibitors cooperate to suppress EGFR‐T790M‐mutant NSCLC cells
Authors: Chiu Huan-Chih , Chang Teng-Yuan , Huang Chin-Ting , Chao Yu-Sheng , Hsu John T.-A.
Published: February 2012

An acquired mutation (T790M) in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) accounts for half of all relapses in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients who initially respond to EGFR kinase inhibitors. In this study, we demonstrated for the first time that EGFR‐T790M interacts with the cytoskeletal components, myosin heavy chain 9 (MYH9) and β‐actin, in the nucleus of H1975 cells carrying the T790M‐mutant EGFR. The interactions of EGFR with MYH9 and β‐actin were reduced in the presence of blebbistatin, a specific inhibitor for the MYH9‐β‐actin interaction, suggesting that the EGFR interaction with MYH9 and β‐actin is affected by the integrity of the cytoskeleton. These physical interactions among MYH9, β‐actin, and EGFR were also impaired by CL‐387,785, a kinase inhibitor for EGFR‐T790M. Furthermore, CL‐387,785 and blebbistatin interacted in a synergistic fashion to suppress cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in H1975 cells. The combination of CL‐387,785 and blebbistatin enhanced the down‐regulation of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), a transcriptional target of nuclear EGFR. Overall, our findings demonstrate that disrupting EGFR interactions with the cytoskeletal components enhanced the anti‐cancer effects of CL‐387,785 against H1975 cells, suggesting a novel therapeutic approach for NSCLC cells that express the drug‐resistant EGFR‐T790M.
JEAN-LOUIS DELOLME AND THE POLITICAL SCIENCE OF THE ENGLISH EMPIRE
Authors: McDANIEL IAIN
Published: February 2012

This article aims to extend our understanding of eighteenth-century political science through a re-examination of the writings of Jean-Louis Delolme (1741–1806). Beginning with an account of Delolme's conception of a modern ‘science of politics’, the article demonstrates that Delolme's ambition to rest the study of politics on scientific foundations developed in the context of an evolving concern with the stability and durability of the English ‘empire’. Underlining Delolme's critique of traditional republican political science as well as the comparative science of politics set out in Montesquieu'sThe spirit of the laws, the article thus sheds light on the connection between eighteenth-century conceptions of political science and eighteenth-century analyses of the English constitution and the British state. The article concludes with a brief discussion of the resonance of Delolme's central ideas in late eighteenth-century debates, in Britain, America, and France, about the character and properties of the modern constitutional republic.
THE CONTROVERSY AND CONSEQUENCES OF JOHN REDMOND'S ESTATE SALE UNDER THE WYNDHAM LAND ACT, 1903
Authors: COSGROVE PATRICK
Published: February 2012

This article examines the controversy surrounding the sale of John Redmond's estate under the Wyndham Land Act of 1903, its impact on Redmond's political career, and divisions within Irish nationalism. As chairman of the Irish Parliamentary Party, Redmond automatically assumed the mantle of spokesman for nationalist tenant farmers. However, after inheriting his uncle's estate in 1902, his political responsibilities as a tenant representative and his personal position as a landlord were set on a collision course. Although now a landlord he chose to attend the 1902–3 Land Conference, whose report heavily influenced the Wyndham Act, as the chief tenant representative. After accepting an offer by some of his tenants to purchase their holdings just prior to the commencement of the new act, many nationalists felt that the terms were exorbitant and Redmond was castigated for setting a precedent for landlords to follow. Even though the estate was eventually sold at a lower price, allegations that Redmond had extracted an excessive price from his own tenants and doubts about his trustworthiness as a tenant representative were slow to disappear. Against this backdrop, this article offers a fresh perspective on John Redmond's political career, post-1900.
‘THE SPACE OF THE SOUL’: AN INTERVIEW WITH SOFIA GUBAIDULINA
Authors: Moody Ivan
Published: February 2012

In this interview Gubaidulina discusses her understanding of religion and the way in which it relates to her music, by means of symbolism and metaphor. In particular she speaks of her understanding of the Apocalypse as a book of light, greatly influenced by the writings of Fr Aleksandr Men. She talks about the symbolism of instruments in her work, notably percussion, which she sees as a way to the subconscious; her understanding of the role of modernism in music, and the way in which her work connects with this historical process; and also her use of the Fibonacci sequence. The relationship of her music to liturgy is discussed, as is the double path, apparently contradictory, of the artist who composes both liturgical and concert music. The experience of the composer during the profound changes in music during the 20th century, specifically as regards possible intersections between modernism and spirituality, are also discussed.
THE EVOLUTION OF FORM IN THE MUSIC OF ROGER REYNOLDS (I)
Authors: Boyd Michael
Published: February 2012

Throughout his career, Roger Reynolds has studied perception and used this knowledge in an overt manner to shape many of his compositional decisions. Though this concern affects the ways that he works with many musical parameters, its influence is perhaps most clearly manifested in his global temporal designs. This article examines how he has approached form over the course of his career. Reynolds's initial compositional work from the early 1960s employed formal proportions that were derived from rows. Since 1970 Reynolds has used logarithmically expanding and contracting proportions to define sectional durations in his music to the near-exclusion of other designs. At the end of the 1980s and into the early 1990s, Reynolds began to look for sources of ‘alternative proportional authority’ such as chaos theory, while in more recent compositions his approach to formal design has been more variable.
Prevalence of types of methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureusin turkey flocks and personnel attending the animals
Authors: RICHTER A. , STING R. , POPP C. , RAU J. , TENHAGEN B.-A. , GUERRA B. , HAFEZ H. M. , FETSCH A.
Published: February 2012

Livestock-associated methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(LA-MRSA) have been isolated from a number of livestock species and persons involved in animal production. We investigated the prevalence of LA-MRSA in fattening turkeys and people living on farms that house fattening turkeys. Eighteen (90%) of 20 investigated flocks were positive for MRSA, and on 12 of the farms 22 (37·3%) of 59 persons sampled were positive for MRSA. People with frequent access to the stables were more likely to be positive for MRSA. In most flocks MRSA that could be assigned to clonal complex (CC) 398 were detected. In five flocks MRSA ofspa-type t002 that is not related to CC398 were identified. Moreover, other methicillin-resistantStaphylococcusspp. were detected on 11 farms and in eight people working on the farms.
Identifying Specific Interpretations and Use of Safety Behaviours in People with Distressing Visual Hallucinations: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Dudley Robert , Wood Markku , Spencer Helen , Brabban Alison , Mosimann Urs P. , Collerton Daniel
Published: February 2012

Background: Visual hallucinations (VH) are a common experience and can be distressing and disabling, particularly for people suffering from psychotic illness. However, not everyone with visual hallucinations reports the experience to be distressing. Models of VH propose that appraisals of VH as a threat to wellbeing and the use of safety seeking behaviours help maintain the distress. Aims: This study investigated whether people with distressing VH report threat appraisals and use safety behaviours. Method: The study utilized a single group descriptive design, in which 15 participants with psychosis and VH were asked questions in order to assess the content, distress, appraisals, and behaviours associated with visual hallucinations. Results: People who found visual hallucinations distressing (n = 13) held negative appraisals about those hallucinations and specifically saw them as a threat to their physical or psychological wellbeing. They also engaged in safety seeking behaviours that were logically related to the appraisal and served to maintain the distress. Conclusions: People with distressing VH regard them as a threat to their wellbeing and use safety seeking behaviours as a result of this perceived threat. These key processes are potential targets for treatments that will alleviate the distress associated with VH.
Body weight perception is associated with socio-economic status and current body weight in selected urban and rural South Indian school-going children
Authors: Pauline Maria , Selvam Sumithra , Swaminathan Sumathi , Vaz Mario
Published: February 2012

Objective

To evaluate the current and ideal body weight perceptions of schoolchildren in relation to their actual body weight and socio-economic status (SES).

Design

Baseline evaluation of schoolchildren from January 2008 to April 2008 as part of a 3-year longitudinal study.

Setting

City and non-city locations, Karnataka State, South India.

Subjects

Schoolchildren (n1877) aged between 8 and 14 years.

Results

Girls, children of more educated parents and city dwellers were more likely to be overweight (P< 0·001). Younger children aged <10 years and those of lower SES were more likely to perceive themselves as underweight (adjusted OR = 1·63, 95 % CI 1·25, 2·11 and adjusted OR = 1·87, 95 % CI 1·32, 2·65). Underweight children were ten times more likely to overestimate their current weight status, while overweight children were four times more likely to underestimate it. The odds of children of lower SES underestimating their weight, as well as desiring a higher weight, were higher than those of higher-SES children.

Conclusions

SES is associated with body weight perception. Underweight children are more likely to overestimate their weight status and overweight children more likely to underestimate it.
Broad‐band Rayleigh wave tomography of Taiwan and its implications on gravity anomalies
Authors: Huang Tzu‐Ying , Gung Yuancheng , Liang Wen‐Tzong , Chiao Ling‐Yun , Teng Louis S.
Published: February 2012

We construct the first broad‐band surface wave group velocity dispersion maps for the entire island of Taiwan using the ambient seismic noise tomography. Continuous data from three island‐wide broad‐band networks are used. In particular, taking advantage of the temporary arrays deployed by the TAiwan Integrated GEodynamics Research project (TAIGER), we have collected an unprecedented data amount for the noise tomography in Taiwan. We construct 2D group velocity maps for Rayleigh waves from 4 to 20 seconds using a wavelet‐based multi‐scale inversion technique. Patterns of lateral variations of our shorter period (<10 seconds) model demonstrate very good correlation with the surficial geology, whereas the overall structure, albeit with much better resolution in the shallow depth, is generally consistent with previously established body wave models. Besides seismic structure, our model also provides vital constraint on resolving the long‐lasting controversy about most prominent Bouguer gravity anomaly in central Taiwan, implying that it is likely caused by a deeper mountain root. With regard to various scenarios of the tectonic evolution of Taiwan, our results seem to favor the lithospheric collision model that invokes significant crustal thickening during the collisional orogeny.
Eyjafjallajökull volcanic ash concentrations determined using Spin Enhanced Visible and Infrared Imager measurements
Authors: Prata A. J. , Prata A. T.
Published: February 2012

Between 14 April and 25 May, 2010, Eyjafjallajökull volcano in Iceland erupted a large amount of fine grained ash. Dispersion models and satellite data were used to identify the location of the ash cloud, but accurate quantitative forecasts of the concentrations could not be made. By using multispectral satellite measurements from the Spin Enhanced Visible and Infrared Imager (SEVIRI), it is shown that quantitative estimates of the mass loadings (g m−2) can be made with a detection limit ∼0.2 g m−2, every 15 minutes. These data represent the most comprehensive coverage, in space and time, of the Eyjafjallajökull ash and its movement. A new ash concentration chart is proposed that removes the ambiguity inherent in assigning high concentrations to highly negative brightness temperature differences. Validation of satellite ash retrievals against measurements from aircraft, ground‐based lidars, and air quality data is presented. The results show a mean bias of −47 μg m−3 and standard deviation of ±154 μg m−3. The satellite ash retrievals are sufficiently accurate for use with dispersion models to constrain ash concentration forecasts. Concentrations in the dense parts of the dispersing ash cloud occasionally exceeded 4 mg m−3 (∼3% of ash‐affected pixels), and ash clouds with concentrations >2 mg m−3 covered large parts of European airspace on several occasions (∼50% of ash‐affected pixels). The statistical analysis leads naturally to a logarithmic scale for assigning ash concentration limits. We suggest that a better approach is to utilize a dosage and illustrate this using a simple model of ash deposition on jet engines.
Cell cycle control of Wnt/β‐catenin signalling by conductin/axin2 through CDC20
Authors: Hadjihannas Michel V , Bernkopf Dominic B , Brückner Martina , Behrens Jürgen
Published: February 2012

Wnt/β‐catenin signalling regulates cell proliferation by modulating the cell cycle and is negatively regulated by conductin/axin2/axil. We show that conductin levels peak at G2/M followed by a rapid decline during return to G1. In line with this, Wnt/β‐catenin target genes are low at G2/M and high at G1/S, and β‐catenin phosphorylation oscillates during the cell cycle in a conductin‐dependent manner. Conductin is degraded by the anaphase‐promoting complex/cyclosome cofactor CDC20. Knockdown of CDC20 blocks Wnt signalling through conductin. CDC20‐resistant conductin inhibits Wnt signalling and attenuates colony formation of colorectal cancer cells. We propose that CDC20‐mediated degradation of conductin regulates Wnt/β‐catenin signalling for maximal activity during G1/S.
What doesn't kill you makes you dumber
Authors: Hunter Philip
Published: February 2012

A causal link between childhood exposure to disease and the development of intelligence would have major implications for public health and international development programmes.
Statistical analysis of network data and evolution on GPUs: High-performance statistical computing
Authors: Thorne Thomas , Stumpf Michael
Published: February 2012

Network analysis typically involves as set of repetitive tasks that are particularly amenable to poor-man's parallelization. This is therefore an ideal application are for GPU architectures, which help to alleviate the tedium inherent to statistically sound analysis of network data. Here we will illustrate the use of GPUs in a range of applications, which include percolation processes on networks, the evolution of protein-protein interaction networks, and the fusion of different types of biomedical and disease data in the context of molecular interaction networks. We will pay particular attention to the numerical performance of different routines that are frequently invoked in network analysis problems. We conclude with a review over recent developments in the generation of random numbers that address the specific requirements posed by GPUs and high-performance computing needs.
A quantitative model for efficient construction of lentiviral vectors with a unique clone site
Authors: Zhang Gang , Tandon Anurag
Published: February 2012

Lentiviral vectors (LVs) were a powerful tool for transgene expression in vivo and in vitro. However, the construction of LVs is of low efficiency, due to the large sizes and lack of proper clone sites. Therefore, it is critical to develop efficient strategies for cloning LVs. Here, we reported a combinatorial strategy to efficiently construct LVs using EGFP, hPlk2 wild type (WT) and mutant genes as inserts. Firstly, site-directed mutagenesis (SDM) was performed to create BamH I site for the inserts; secondly, pWPI LV was dephosphorylated after BamH I digestion; finally, the amounts and ratios of the insert and vector DNA were optimized to increase monomeric ligation. Our results showed that the total percentage of positive clones was approximately 51.3%±15.2%. Using this model, almost all the vectors could be constructed through two or three minipreps, therefore, our study provided an efficient quantitative model for constructing large-size vectors.This paper has since been published in Scientific Reports: Zhang, G. & Tandon, A. Quantitative assessment on the cloning efficiencies of lentiviral transfer vectors with a unique clone site. Sci. Rep. 2, 415;DOI:10.1038/srep00415 (2012)
Sonografische Mikrokalkdetektion – Potenzial einer neuen Methode
Authors: Fischer T. , Grigoryev M. , Bossenz S. , Diekmann F. , Bick U. , Slowinski T. , Thomas A.
Published: February 2012

Ziel: Ermöglicht die erleichterte Mikrokalkdetektionsmethode (EMD) die sonografische Mikrokalkdarstellung an stereotaktisch gewonnenen Mammastanzzylindern im Vergleich zur Mammografie?

Material und Methoden: In einer prospektiv randomisierten Studie wurden 105 stereotaktisch gewonnen Stanzzylinder mammografisch und sonografisch untersucht. Die EMD-Methode, integriert in ein High-end-Ultraschallsystem, bestand aus 3 Einstellungsstufen (0 – 2 blau, 3 – 5 violett und 6 – 8 schwarz-weiß, 14 MHz). Die Anzahl der Mikroverkalkungen pro Stanze wurde für beide Verfahren bestimmt. Die EMD-Bildqualität konnte auf einer Skala von 1 – 9 beurteilt werden. ANOVA und Post-Hoc nach Sidak, Regressionsanalyse nach Pearson (r) und Spearmansche Rangrelationskorrelation (rho) wurden ermittelt. Der Intraklassen-Korrelationskoeffizient (ICC) wurde berechnet und eine ROC-Analyse durchgeführt.

Ergebnisse: Die blaue Farbmappe 1 wurde mit 1,5 ± 0,7 (MW) am besten bewertet (p< 0,05 im Vergleich zu schwarz-weiß und violett). Bei einer guter Korrelation der Verfahren (r = 0,708 und rho = 0,694) lag die Anzahl der erkannten Mikroverkalkungen pro Stanze bei 3,5 ± 3,1 sonografisch und 4,3 ± 4,8 mammografisch (p> 0,05). Der ICC zeigte mit 0,773 eine nur geringe Abweichung der Verfahren. Basierend auf dem histologischen Nachweis der Verkalkungen war die Mammografie der Sonografie in der ROC-Analyse überlegen (AUC = 0,837 vs. AUC = 0,728).

Schlussfolgerung: Die sonografische Mikrokalkdetektion mittels EMD-Methode korreliert gut mit der digitalen Mammografie an stereotaktisch gewonnenen Stanzen. Die Verfahren weichen gering zugunsten der Mammografie voneinander ab.
Expression of angiogenic factors in placenta of stressed rats
Authors: Corrêa Isis Paloppi , Ruano Rodrigo , Takiuti Nilton Hideto , Francisco Rossana Pulcinelli Vieira , Bevilacqua Estela , Zugaib Marcelo
Published: February 2012

The aim of the present study was to analyse the influence of stress on pregnant rats, particularly in terms of maternal, placental and fetal weight, placental morphology and placental gene expression of the angiogenic factors Vegfa and Pgf and their receptors. The parameters were evaluated on gestation Day 20. Maternal, fetal and placental weights were statistically lower in stressed animals than controls, suggesting abnormalities in gestational physiology. Morphologically the placentas of rats subjected to stress were reduced in size and weight, with few glycogen cells and a significant increase in the number of apoptotic cells. Stress caused an increase in placental gene expression of Vegfa (P < 0.05) and a reduction in Pgf, Flt1 and Kdr expression (P < 0.05). It has been suggested that increased VEGF is associated with vasodilatation and hypotension, but in this model persistent hypertension was present. This study suggests that the limited hypotensive Vegfa response to stress-induced hypertension could result from reduced expression of Flt1/Kdr disrupting specific VEGF pathways. These findings may elucidate one of the multiple possible factors underlying how stress modulates placental physiology, and could aid the understanding of stress-induced gestational disorders.
Rab8a regulates the exocyst-mediated kiss-and-run discharge of theDictyosteliumcontractile vacuole
Authors: Essid Miriam , Gopaldass Navin , Yoshida Kunito , Merrifield Christien , Soldati Thierry
Published: February 2012

Water expulsion by the contractile vacuole (CV) in Dictyostelium is carried out by a giant kiss-and-run focal exocytic event during which the two membranes are only transiently connected but do not completely merge. We present a molecular dissection of the GTPase Rab8a and the exocyst complex in tethering of the contractile vacuole to the plasma membrane, fusion, and final detachment. Right before discharge, the contractile vacuole bladder sequentially recruits Drainin, a Rab11a effector, Rab8a, the exocyst complex, and LvsA, a protein of the Chédiak–Higashi family. Rab8a recruitment precedes the nucleotide-dependent arrival of the exocyst to the bladder by a few seconds. A dominant-negative mutant of Rab8a strongly binds to the exocyst and prevents recruitment to the bladder, suggesting that a Rab8a guanine nucleotide exchange factor activity is associated with the complex. Absence of Drainin leads to overtethering and blocks fusion, whereas expression of constitutively active Rab8a allows fusion but blocks vacuole detachment from the plasma membrane, inducing complete fragmentation of tethered vacuoles. An indistinguishable phenotype is generated in cells lacking LvsA, implicating this protein in postfusion detethering. Of interest, overexpression of a constitutively active Rab8a mutant reverses the lvsA-null CV phenotype.