bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explaining the short stature of the poor: chronic childhood disease and growth in nineteenth‐century England1
Authors: Sharpe Pamela
Published: September 2011

This article examines the relationship between human growth, final height, and the environment in early nineteenth‐century England. While the reasons for stuntedness are multifactoral and involve lack of nourishment andin uteroconditions, we should also give emphasis to respiratory, gastro‐enteric, and bone disease along with the inadequate and sometimes harmful arrangements for convalescence, involving opiates and inadequate rest. Hard work and prevailing social attitudes slowed recovery and affected limb and organ development. While survival chances may have improved, and indeed were enhanced by measures such as targeted poor relief, quality of life for infants and children remained low and had an influence on their height as adults. The bodies of surviving working‐class children showed the burden of hard times.
Explaining contract choice: vertical coordination, sharecropping, and wine in Europe, 1850–19501
Authors: CARMONA JUAN , SIMPSON JAMES
Published: September 2011

Recent literature on sharecropping has emphasized its importance in reducing problems associated with moral hazard in cultivation (in Tuscany), or providing a crucial ‘rung’ on the farm ladder (in the US south). Yet despite these and other important features, sharecropping was surprisingly absent in most regions. Using case studies associated with French wine production, this article argues that a number of factors have often been overlooked in the literature, the first of which is the need for landowners to be able to offer farms that were sufficiently large both to employ the sharecropper's family on a full‐time basis, and to allow them to produce a variety of products to minimize risk. Second, measurement problems exist with the division of the harvest, especially when quality was an important factor in determining price. Finally, the nature of vertical cooperation and integration associated with the production and marketing arrangements of individual crops suggests that landowners were not indifferent to receiving payment in cash or kind, and this affected contract choice. This article incorporates these ideas to explain not just the presence and absence of sharecropping in different geographical localities, but also the wide variety of different forms of the contract that existed in France.
Lord Killearn and British Diplomacy Regarding French Indo‐Chinese Rice Supplies, 1946–1948
Authors: SMITH T. O.
Published: September 2011

Using the private papers of Lord Killearn in conjunction with official government documents from the British national archives and the French colonial archives, this article builds upon previous historical scholarship to highlight the importance of Killearn's South‐East Asian diplomacy to the resolution of the international food crisis following the Second World War. As Britain's senior diplomat in South‐East Asia Killearn had little choice but to become entangled in various international disputes often centred upon French Indo‐China – Killearn's failure to do otherwise would not have preserved adequate international rice supplies. Therefore this article not only demonstrates the magnitude of Killearn's concern for South‐East Asian rice production during the immediate post‐war food crisis but it also reveals the depth of Killearn's frustration towards the chaotic priorities emanating from French Indo‐China, and thus it substantiates a more significant and complex understanding of Killearn's diplomatic mission to South‐East Asia than has been formerly stated.
Subjective Quality of Life of Women with Intellectual Disabilities: The Role of Perceived Control over their Own Life in Self‐determined Behaviour
Authors: Strnadová Iva , Evans David
Published: September 2011

Background  Quality of life for people with intellectual disabilities has been reported in the research literature across differing demographics. There has been, however, little research that has examined in‐depth the experiences of women with intellectual disabilities aged 40 years or older.

Materials and methods  Fifty‐five women from Sydney, Australia, and Prague, Czech Republic, were recruited to the study. Participants were recruited through agencies known to the researchers, ensuring ethical conduct of all procedures.

Results  Each participant completed a semi‐structured interview, and using a grounded theory approach, a series of themes were identified common across all women. The strongest theme identified throughout the interviews was the lack of control participants perceived they had over their lives.

Conclusions  The results of this study further the call for people with intellectual disabilities to be provided the opportunity to participate in decisions about their life choices.
Factors motivating and influencing clothing disposal behaviours
Authors: Joung Hyun‐Mee , Park‐Poaps Haesun
Published: September 2011

This study of 232 college students was framed by Ajzen and Fishbein's theory of reasoned action and examined factors that motivate and influence college students' clothing disposal behaviours. Using survey questionnaires, we investigated four different clothing disposal options (resale, donation, reusing and discarding) and examined five motivational factors (environmental, economic, charity and convenience concerns and information unavailability). The influences of attitudes towards the environment and subjective norms of family and friends on clothing disposal behaviours also were examined. Results indicated that resale and donation behaviours were explained by environmental concerns and that reuse and resale behaviours were explained by economic concerns. Charity concerns motivated donation behaviours and convenience motivated discarding behaviours. Further, findings indicated that family subjective norms influenced environmentally motivated resale and donation behaviours.
Growth hormone, dehydroepiandrosterone and adiponectin levels in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis: an endocrine signature for advanced fibrosis in obese patients
Authors: Koehler Edith , Swain James , Sanderson Schuyler , Krishnan Anuradha , Watt Kymberly , Charlton Michael
Published: September 2011

Background and Aims

Liver‐related clinical consequences of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are seen only in the minority of patients with advanced fibrosis. The aim of our study was to generate insight into a potential endocrine basis of steatohepatitis with advanced fibrosis in NAFLD.

Methods

Biopsy and blood samples were prospectively collected from patients with medically complicated obesity. Patients were categorized, according to liver histology, into: (i) normal, (ii) simple steatosis (SS), (iii) non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with fibrosis stage (FS) 0–1 and (iv) NASH with FS ≥ 2. A broad panel of potential biomarkers included DHEA‐S, growth hormone (GH), homeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), leptin, resistin, adiponectin and cytokeratin 18 (CK‐18) fragments.

Results

We studied 160 patients (mean BMI 46.8 ± 8.2 kg/m2). Liver biopsies demonstrated normal histology in 10%, SS in 45%, NASH with FS 0–1 in 37.5% and NASH with FS ≥ 2 in 7.5%. C‐reactive protein, IL‐6, GH, CK‐18, adiponectin, HOMA‐IR and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) were significantly associated with NASH in univariate analysis, but overall predictivity of these parameters was low (AUC ROC = 0.62–0.68). In contrast, all patients with NASH with FS ≥ 2 had insulin resistance, as measured by QUICKI, and GH levels <0.45 ng/ml and all but one patient with NASH FS 2–3 had low DHEA levels (<123 μg/dl).

Conclusions

Low serum levels of GH and DHEA are very common in patients with NASH with more advanced fibrosis. Other biomarkers, including CK‐18 fragment levels, have predictivity characteristics that would be of low clinical utility for distinguishing patients with normal histology or SS from those with NASH. These findings demonstrate an endocrine profile associated with advanced fibrosis.
Selection of proangiogenic ascorbate derivatives and their exploitation in a novel drug‐releasing system for wound healing
Authors: Stumpf Ulla , Michaelis Martin , Klassert Denise , Cinatl Jindrich , Altrichter Jens , Windolf Joachim , Hergenröther Julian , Scholz Martin
Published: September 2011

The pathophysiology leading to delayed wound healing is complex and efficient therapeutic approaches for accelerated wound healing currently do not exist. We developed a novel drug‐eluting platform for the potential use in wound dressings. Here, we report on the potential of eluting ascorbic acid‐2‐phosphate (ASC‐2P), a highly stable variant of ascorbic acid, to induce angiogenesis and to promote collagen synthesis by fibroblasts. The drug‐eluting platform device (DEPD) consists of biocompatible polymeric layers comprising polyethylene terephtalate, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and polyurethane with PVA as the solvent for ASC‐2P. The angiogenic potential of ASC‐2P was evaluated in the endothelial cell tube formation assay (TFA) and in the chorion allantoic membrane (CAM) model. Collagen synthesis by ASC‐2P‐stimulated fibroblasts was determined by Sirius Red staining. ASC‐2P significantly induced angiogenesis in five independent TFA and CAM assays and induced collagen synthesis in two different fibroblast cell lines. The eluting kinetics of ASC‐2P was determined by the ultraviolet NanoDrop method and the functional 2,2′‐Azinobis‐(3‐ethylbenzthiazolin‐6‐sulfonic acid) method. Eluting profiles showed a continuous release in the range of biologically effective concentrations >10 days. This is the first report showing the proangiogenic‐ and collagen‐promoting features of ASC‐2P. DEPD loaded with ASC‐2P ought to be further evaluated as wound dressings or as supplementary pads for topical treatment of delayed wound healing in preclinical studies.
Acceleration of diabetic‐wound healing with PEGylated rhaFGF in healing‐impaired streptozocin diabetic rats
Authors: Huang Zhifeng , Lu Meifei , Zhu Guanghui , Gao Hongchang , Xie Liyun , Zhang Xiaoqin , Ye Chaohui , Wang Yan , Sun Chuanchuan , Li Xiaokun
Published: September 2011

Molecular modification with polyethylene glycol (PEGylation) is an effective approach to improve protein biostability, in vivo lifetime and therapeutic potency. In the present study, the recombinant human acid fibroblast growth factor (rhaFGF) was site‐selectively PEGylated with 20 kDa mPEG‐butyraldehyde. Mono‐PEGylated rhaFGF was purified to near homogeneity by Sephadex G 25‐gel filtration followed by a Heparin Sepharose TM CL‐6B affinity chromatography. PEGylated rhaFGF has less effect than the native rhaFGF on the stimulation of 3T3 cell proliferation in vitro; however, its relative thermal stability at normal physiological temperature and structural stability were significantly enhanced, and its half‐life time in vivo was significantly extended. Then, the physiological function of PEGylated rhaFGF on diabetic‐wound healing was evaluated in type 1 diabetic Sprague Dawley rats. The results showed that, compared with the group of animal treated with native rhaFGF, the group treated with PEGylated rhaFGF exhibited better therapeutic efficacy with shorter healing time, quicker tissue collagen generation, earlier and higher transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β expression, and dermal cell proliferation. In addition, in vivo analysis showed that both native and PEGylated rhaFGF were more effective in the wound healing in the diabetic group compared with the nondiabetic one. Taken together, these results suggest that PEGylation of rhaFGF could be a more effective approach to the pharmacological and therapeutic application of native rhaFGF.
Clinical efficacy of basic fibroblast growth factor on pressure ulcers: Case‐control pairing study using a new evaluation method
Authors: Ohura Takehiko , Nakajo Toshio , Moriguchi Takahiko , Oka Hiroaki , Tachi Masahiro , Ohura Norihiko , Nogami Reiko , Murayama Shizuko
Published: September 2011

A basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) case and a control case whose total scores of Pressure Ulcer Healing Process‐Ohura (PUHP‐Ohura) and risk factors for pressure ulcers, and level of care for pressure ulcers were equivalent were paired. Twenty‐three such eligible pairs were enrolled in this study. Both cases in each pair were treated under conditions in which extrinsic factors such as the use of a pressure‐relief mattress and the frequency of postural change were equivalent. The efficacy of bFGF was assessed by analyzing the data obtained over time as the scores of PUHP‐Ohura for nine observation items using the SAS MIXED procedure. Treatment of pressure ulcers with bFGF accelerated wound healing over time more significantly than the control in six observation items (exudate volume, ulcer depth, granulation formation, wound edge, epithelialization, total score of the PUHP‐Ohura). These data suggest that it may be possible to evaluate drugs for the treatment of pressure ulcers using the PUHP‐Ohura wound‐assessment tool.
Conditionally Funded Field Evaluations—A Solution to the Economic Barriers Limiting Evidence Generation in Dialysis?
Authors: Mendelssohn David C. , McFarlane Phil
Published: September 2011

Evaluation of new therapies after licensing is usually a binary decision by payers; to fund or not to fund. In the real world, many therapies fall into a gray zone of incomplete evaluation. Many clinical and economic issues in nephrology have combined to create a long list of such promising but incompletely evaluated therapies. This article focuses on the economic challenges that limit evidence generation in nephrology. Conditionally funded field evaluations such as coverage with evidence development can allow both earlier access to new treatments and rigorous evaluation. The authors propose that field evaluations will stimulate an environment that promotes pivotal renal care advances. Certainly, the evidence challenge faced by nephrology requires urgent discussions on creating conditions that catalyze and accelerate innovation, and improve patient outcomes.
Extensive Subcutaneous Fat Necrosis of the Newborn Associated with Therapeutic Hypothermia
Authors: Hogeling Marcia , Meddles Katharine , Berk David R. , Bruckner Anna L. , Shimotake Thomas K. , Cohen Ronald S. , Frieden Ilona J.
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  Subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn is a form of panniculitis that most often occurs in full‐term infants with predisposing risk factors. Three neonates with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy were treated with therapeutic hypothermia and developed extensive subcutaneous fat necrosis. All three infants developed extensive subcutaneous fat necrosis, involving the back, scalp, and arms. Mild, asymptomatic hypercalcemia was noted in one infant in the weeks following the subcutaneous fat necrosis. Hypothermia as a risk factor for subcutaneous fat necrosis is reviewed. Clinicians should be aware of subcutaneous fat necrosis as a possible risk factor and complication associated with asphyxiated newborns who may undergo therapeutic hypothermia. Future studies for therapeutic hypothermia should evaluate neonates for the development of subcutaneous fat necrosis.
Congenital Cutaneous Candidiasis in Two Full‐Term Infants
Authors: Tieu Kathy D. , Satter Elizabeth K. , Zaleski Lisa , Koehler Matthew
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  We describe two full‐term infants who presented with congenital cutaneous candidiasis (CCC) and compare their clinical presentation and outcome with that of neonatal candidiasis and chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis. Although candidal vulvovaginitis occurs in up to one‐third of pregnancies, CCC is uncommon and can be confused with more‐serious pustular disorders that present in neonates. Greater awareness of CCC is essential to make an early diagnosis and distinguish it from other infections.
Acrodermatitis Enteropathica: A Novel SLC39A4 Gene Mutation Found in a Patient with an Early‐Onset
Authors: SANTIAGO FELICIDADE , MATOS JOSÉ , MORENO ANA , SCHMITT SÉBASTIEN , BÉZIEAU STÉPHANE , TELLECHEA OSCAR
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  We report the case of a 3‐month‐old full‐term, breast‐fed infant with clinical and laboratorial findings consistent with acrodermatitis enteropathica. In addition, the mother had low zinc levels in her breast milk. Mutation analysis revealed a novel insertion in the SLC39A4 gene.
Panton‐Valentine Leukocidin‐Producing Staphylococcal aureus: Report of Four Siblings
Authors: Heelan Kara , Murphy Annette , Murphy Lesley‐Ann
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  Panton‐Valentine leukocidin (PVL)‐producing Staphylococcus aureus results in leukocyte destruction and tissue necrosis (Pediatric Dermatology 2007;24:401). It can be associated with a spectrum of clinical manifestations that range from localized staphylococcal skin infections to sometimes severe necrotizing pneumonia (Clin Infect Dis 1999;29:1128). We report a case of four siblings, three brothers whose atopic dermatitis was complicated by cutaneous lesions and furunculosis, while their 21‐month‐old sister had a fatal PVL positive staphylococcal pneumonia.
Kawasaki Disease and Alopecia Areata: Coincidence or a True Association?
Authors: Krishnamurthy Sriram , Chandrashekar Laxmisha , Mondal Nivedita
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  A 10‐year‐old boy presented with fever, stiff neck, and rash over the legs. During the course of his hospital stay, the clinical picture gradually evolved, and he met the criteria for Kawasaki disease (KD) on the seventh day of hospitalization. During this period, he also developed alopecia areata. He was managed with intravenous immunoglobulin, aspirin, and intralesional triamcinolone. This is the first case of alopecia areata with KD in the literature, and it does not appear to be a mere coincidence. We discuss the probable mechanisms of alopecia areata with KD, an association that has not been reported before.
Coexistence of Two Atypical Variants of Pityriasis Rosea: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Sinha Surabhi , Sardana Kabir , Garg Vijay K.
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  We report the case of a 16‐year‐old Indian girl who presented with multiple small papular lesions and larger erythema multiforme‐like plaques in a Christmas tree pattern over her body for 3 weeks. Histopathologic examination was performed, and she was diagnosed with pityriasis rosea presenting with two atypical morphological variants—generalized papular and erythema multiforme‐like. A brief review of literature of these two rare types is also presented.
Oral health of hemodialysis patients: A cross‐sectional study at two German dialysis centers
Authors: Ziebolz Dirk , Fischer Petra , Hornecker Else , Mausberg Rainer F.
Published: September 2011

The aim of the study was to investigate the oral hygiene behavior and state of oral health of hemodialysis (HD) patients in Germany. HD patients attending two dialysis centers were asked to participate in the study. Anamneses and oral hygiene behavior were recorded in a questionnaire. Dental examination included the dental status (DMF‐T) and the degree of gingival inflammation (PDI: Periodontol Disease Index). Of 129 patients contacted, 54 (42%), aged 63.9 ± 13.0 years (23 women and 31 men), took part in the study. At an average, dialysis was required for 4.1 years. The cause of terminal renal failure was glomerulonephritis in 30% of patients and diabetic nephropathy in 22% of patients. Since dialysis therapy, 63% of the patients (n = 34) only visited a dentist when they had complaints. In 46 cases (85%), the dentist had been informed about the patient's requirement for dialysis, and in most cases (70%), the dental treatment took place on the day after dialysis. The mean DMF‐T of the HD patients was 22.1 ± 6.5. The proportion of carious teeth was low (D‐T: 0.7 ± 1.2), of missing teeth (M‐T) high (16.2 ± 9.3). The median degree of gingival inflammation (PDI) was 1. Availing themselves of dental treatment after patients needed to have dialysis was mostly “complaint oriented.” In addition to a high proportion of missing teeth, a good level of restoration of caries was found. The gingiva showed only a low level of inflammatory changes.
Kinetics of Long‐Term Moisture Expansion in Fired‐Clay Brick
Authors: Hall Christopher , Wilson Moira A. , Hoff William D.
Published: September 2011

Slow, progressive moisture expansion is a general feature of fired‐clay ceramics. In masonry structures, it may produce cracking and must be allowed for in design. Expansion continues indefinitely although at a diminishing rate. Using long‐term data from four sources and extending up to 58 years, we show that a (time)1/4 power law model describes accurately the rate of expansion. The model is remarkable in having only two adjustable parameters, and provides a firm basis for predicting expansion in structural masonry. The results support also the use of the (time)1/4 model to represent the kinetics of long‐term mass gain in archaeological ceramics.
Effect of Host Structure and Concentration on the Luminescence of Eu3+ and Tb3+ in Borate Phosphors
Authors: Thakur Jyotsna , Dutta Dimple P. , Bagla Hemlata , Tyagi Avesh Kumar
Published: September 2011

Eu3+ and Tb3+ doped in nanocrystalline InBO3, GdBO3, and LaBO3 having three different morphs of calcite (CaCO3) such as Calcite, Vaterite, and Aragonite, respectively, were synthesized by glycine–nitrate combustion method. Luminescence due to Eu3+ and Tb3+ doped individually as well as simultaneously in these three different morphs of calcite were investigated and compared. Also the effect of concentration of dopant ions on the luminescence was studied. The highest photoluminescence emission intensity was observed for RE0.05M0.95BO3 (RE = Eu3+, Tb3+, M = In, Gd, La) samples. Further increase in doping led to concentration quenching of the luminescence. In case of the co‐doped borates, the energy transfer between the co‐doped rare earth ions was influenced by the host crystal structure. This study reveals that there is remarkable effect of the crystal structure of host and concentration of dopant ions on the luminescence.
Hydrogen Generation from Highly Activated Al–Ce Composite Materials in Pure Water
Authors: Luo Hui , Liu Jie , Pu Xuxin , Liang Jie , Wang Zhengjun , Wang Feijiu , Zhang Kun , Peng Yingjie , Xu Bo , Li Jihong , Yu Xibin
Published: September 2011

The reaction of aluminum with pure water is an eco‐friendly approach to generate hydrogen. The main difficulty associated with this approach is that an oxide or hydroxide protective film around aluminum particles prohibit the hydrogen generation. In this article, a kind of highly activated Al–Ce composite material has been developed via a convenient ball milling method. Typically, Al–13 wt% Ce has a total hydrogen production of 1134 mL/g and a conversion yield of 92.42% within 60 min. The influences of the cerium concentration and ball milling time on the hydrogen production efficiency are discussed based on XPS, XRD, FESEM, and BET techniques. In addition, the hydrogen production efficiency can be improved by adding alkali chloride (NaCl or KCl) to the Al–Ce composite materials.
Cytochrome c and insect cell apoptosis
Authors: Liu Kai‐Yu , Yang Hong , Peng Jian‐Xin , Hong Hua‐Zhu
Published: September 2011

Abstract  The role of cytochrome c in insect cell apoptosis has drawn considerable attention and has been subject to considerable controversy. In Drosophila, the majority of studies have demonstrated that cytochrome c may not be involved in apoptosis, although there are conflicting reports. Cytochrome c is not released from mitochondria into the cytosol and activation of the initiator caspase Dronc or effector caspase Drice is not associated with cytochrome c during apoptosis in Drosophila SL2 cells or BG2 cells. Cytochrome c failed to induce caspase activation and promote caspase activation in Drosophila cell lysates, but remarkably caused caspase activation in extracts from human cells. Knockdown of cytochrome c does not protect cells from apoptosis and over‐expression of cytochrome c also does not promote apoptosis. Structural analysis has revealed that cytochrome c is not required for Dapaf‐1 complex assembly. In Lepidoptera, the involvement of cytochrome c in apoptosis has been demonstrated by the accumulating evidence. Cytochrome c release from mitochondria into cytosol has been observed in different cell lines such as Spodoptera frugiperda Sf9, Spodoptera litura Sl‐1 and Lymantria dispar LdFB. Silencing of cytochrome c expression significantly affected apoptosis and activation of caspase and the addition of cytochrome c to cell‐free extracts results in caspase activation, suggesting the activation of caspase is dependent on cytochrome c. Although Apaf‐1 has not been identified in Lepidoptera, the inhibitor of apoptosome formation can inhibit apoptosis and caspase activation. Cytochrome c may be exclusively required for Lepidoptera apoptosis.
Research on the Treatment of Couple Distress
Authors: Lebow Jay L. , Chambers Anthony L. , Christensen Andrew , Johnson Susan M.
Published: September 2011

This article reviews the research on couple therapy over the last decade. The research shows that couple therapy positively impacts 70% of couples receiving treatment. The effectiveness rates of couple therapy are comparable to the effectiveness rates of individual therapies and vastly superior to control groups not receiving treatment. The relationship between couple distress and individual disorders such as depression and anxiety has become well established over the past decade. Research also indicates that couple therapy clearly has an important role in the treatment of many disorders. Findings over the decade have been especially promising for integrative behavioral couples therapy and emotion‐focused therapy, which are two evidence‐based treatments for couples. Research has also begun to identify moderators and mediators of change in couple therapy. Finally, a new and exciting line of research has focused on delineating the principles of change in couple therapy that transcends approach.
Maize cellulosic biofuels: soil carbon loss can be a hidden cost of residue removal
Authors: Kochsiek Amy E. , Knops Johannes M. H.
Published: September 2011

Second generation biofuels, like cellulosic ethanol, have potential as important energy sources that can lower fossil fuel carbon emissions without affecting global food commodity prices. Agricultural crop residues, especially maize, have been proposed for use as biofuel, but the net greenhouse warming effect of the gained fossil fuel carbon offset needs to account for any ecosystem carbon losses caused by the large‐scale maize residue removal. Using differential 13C isotopic ratios between residue and soil in an incubation experiment, we found that removal of residue increased soil organic matter decomposition by an average of 16%, or 540–800 kg carbon ha−1. Thus, removal of residue for biofuel production can have a hidden carbon cost, reducing potential greenhouse gas benefits. Accurate net carbon accounting of cellulosic biofuel needs to include not only fossil fuel savings from use of the residue, but also any declines in soil carbon caused directly and indirectly by residue removal.
Stimulus‐dependent release of tissue‐regenerating factors by equine platelets
Authors: DUNKEL B. , BOLT D. M. , SMITH R. K. , CUNNINGHAM F. M.
Published: September 2011

Reasons for performing the study: Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) is increasingly used for treatment of orthopaedic injuries. However, the effects of different stimuli on the release pattern of regenerative and proinflammatory factors from equine platelets are largely unknown and an optimal treatment protocol remains to be established.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify a stimulus that enhanced release of histopromotive factors (platelet‐derived growth factor BB [PDGF] and transforming growth factor 1β[TGF]) without causing concurrent release of a proinflammatory mediator (CCL5).

Methods: Washed platelets were prepared from 6 healthy ponies and release of growth factors and CCL5 measured using commercially available ELISAs for human proteins following incubation with or without thrombin, chitosan or equine recombinant tumour necrosis factor (erTNF) over 24 h and subsequently over 96 h. Additionally, noncoagulated samples were analysed.

Results: Regardless of whether a stimulus was present or what stimulus was used, PDGF and TGF release was maximal by 0.5–1 h when clot formation took place and very little release was observed after 24 h. Growth factor release was minimal in noncoagulated samples. In contrast, CCL5 release was not associated with coagulation and appeared to persist for much longer. High concentrations of erTNF caused significantly greater release of CCL5 at 6 h than any other stimulus tested.

Conclusions: Growth factor release from equine platelets is dependent on coagulation but independent of the initiating stimulus, and is accompanied by more sustained release of proinflammatory mediators.

Potential relevance: Supernatants collected from coagulated platelets could be an alternative treatment to PRP.
Uncertainty Analysis in the Numerical Simulation of the Air-Water Droplet Motion Through Drift Eliminators
Authors: Zamora Blas , Kaisere Antonio S. , Kling Ulrich , Lucas Manuel , Ruíz Javier
Published: September 2011

This work presents an uncertainty study in the numerical simulation of the air-water droplet motion through three types of drift eliminators using the grid convergence index (GCI) method. The analysis of independence of the results with respect to the fineness of mesh is developed with special emphasis on the influence of the nondimensional sub-layer scaled distance. The coefficient of pressure drop and the droplet collection efficiency are numerically calculated. It may be concluded that using the GCI method leads to reliable numerical results, but it is also necessary to establish a sufficiently fine mesh near the walls.
Analysis of a Power Law and Log Law for a Turbulent Wall Jet Over a Transitional Rough Surface: Universal Relations
Authors: Afzal Noor , Seena Abu
Published: September 2011

The power law and log law velocity profiles and an integral analysis in a turbulent wall jet over a transitional rough surface have been proposed. Based on open mean momentum Reynolds equations, a two layer theory for large Reynolds numbers is presented and the matching in the overlap region is carried out by the Izakson-Millikan-Kolmogorov hypothesis. The velocity profiles and skin friction are shown to be governed by universal log laws as well as by universal power laws, explicitly independent of surface roughness, having the same constants as a fully smooth surface wall jet (or fully rough surface wall jet, as appropriate). The novel scalings for stream-wise variations of the flow over a rough wall jet have been analyzed, and best fit relations for maximum wall jet velocity, boundary layer thickness at maxima of wall jet velocity, the jet half width, the friction factor, and momentum integral are supported by the experimental data. There is no universality of scalings in traditional variables, and different expressions are needed for transitional roughness. The experimental data provides very good support to our universal relations proposed in terms of alternate variables.
800,000 Years of Abrupt Climate Variability
Authors: Barker Stephen , Knorr Gregor , Edwards R. Lawrence , Parrenin Frédéric , Putnam Aaron E. , Skinner Luke C. , Wolff Eric , Ziegler Martin
Published: September 2011

Greenland climate variability for the past 800,000 years was inferred from the Antarctic ice-core temperature record.
Medical care delivery at the Inaugural Youth Olympic Games Singapore 2010
Authors: Chia Jason Kok Kiong , Tay Keng Boon , Suresh Pillai , Schamasch Patrick , Jegathesan Manikavasagam , Mountjoy Margo , Lim Weng Kee , Lwa Peng Ju , Wong Cheong Yoong
Published: September 2011

Context

Mass gatherings such as the Youth Olympic Games require medical services for large populations with special needs specific to elite competitive youth athletes. The location of the Games in a heavily populated city with dispersed competition venues provides unique challenges.

Objective

To describe the planning and delivery of medical services and to provide data for future planning.

Setting

Singapore. One large multipurpose clinic was set up in the Games Village as well as medical posts at competitive venues for 26 sports for onsite coverage. Period of coverage: 10 August 2010 to 28 August 2010.

Participants

A total of 1,337 medical encounters ranging from athletes to officials and volunteers who received medical care from a spectrum of medical professionals.

Major outcome measures

Number of cases attended to at the Games Village medical centres and the medical posts at the competition venues, utilisation of medical services, and the pattern of these injuries and referral patterns to hospitals.

Results

Medical encounters for non-athletes represented 40.9% of the total medical encounters. The rate of heat illnesses was low for athletes at 1.7% (N= 13). The total hospitalisation rate was low at 1.7% (n= 23). Utilisation of onsite pharmacy and physiotherapy services were high at 45.2% (n= 887) and 37.8% (n= 743), respectively, of the encounters for all support services.

Conclusion

The dispersed nature of the Games venues provided challenges to the organisation of medical cover for the participants. Organisers in future Games can make use of the data to plan for future Games of a similar nature.
Do exotic salmonids feed on native fauna after escaping from aquaculture cages in Tasmania, Australia?
Authors: Abrantes Kátya Gisela , Lyle Jeremy Martin , Nichols Peter D. , Semmens Jayson Mark
Published: September 2011

Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar , and rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss , are farmed in Tasmania, Australia, where fish sometimes escape into the natural environment. If escapees are able to survive and feed on native fauna, it is likely that they will have ecosystem impacts. Stomach content, body condition (muscle lipid content and Fulton’ K), stable isotope, and fatty acid analysis were used to determine if escaped salmonids feed on native fauna. Results indicate that, in general, escaped salmonids do not feed on native fauna. Salmonids loose condition after escaping, and escapee stomachs were mostly empty or contained non-nutritious material or feed pellets. Nevertheless, almost a quarter of rainbow trout stomachs contained native fauna. The majority of escapees had biochemical composition similar to caged animals, indicating that these fish had not switched to feed on local food sources. However, a small fraction of escapees conclusively showed changes in biochemical parameters indicative of a shift to feeding on native fauna. Given the numbers and frequency of escapes, this can have an important impact on native species and on the ecology of Macquarie Harbour.
Influence of pinniped-caused injuries on the survival of adult Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in the Columbia River basin
Authors: Naughton George P. , Keefer Matthew L. , Clabough Tami S. , Jepson Michael A. , Lee Steven R. , Peery Christopher A. , Caudill Christopher C.
Published: September 2011

Increasing pinniped abundance in the Pacific Northwest has coincided with population declines of Pacific salmon ( Oncorhynchus  spp.) and steelhead trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss ), and concentrated predation may affect the recovery of some threatened and endangered salmonid stocks. We used radiotelemetry to evaluate pinniped-caused injury effects on migration survival of 17 007 adult Columbia River Chinook salmon ( Oncorhynchus tshawytscha ) and steelhead trout. Injuries from pinnipeds were common (mean injury rate across 29 run-years = 36.5%) and were most common for spring Chinook salmon and steelhead trout. Injury was not consistently associated with adult survival to spawning tributaries, but some negative survival effects were detected. Pinniped-caused injury rates decreased as annual run sizes increased, indicating density-dependent or saturation effects. Within a run, large fish generally had a higher injury incidence than small fish, suggesting pinnipeds targeted large fish or more efficiently captured small fish. Seasonal, size-dependent, and density-dependent results imply that pinniped effects likely differ widely among salmonid populations within the Columbia River basin. A better understanding of these effects is needed to guide management and conservation strategies.
What drives dynamics in the Gulf of Alaska? Integrating hypotheses of species, fishing, and climate relationships using ecosystem modeling
Authors: Gaichas Sarah K. , Aydin Kerim Y. , Francis Robert C.
Published: September 2011

We use a dynamic ecosystem model to evaluate the relative effects of fishing history, climate change, and predator–prey interactions in determining biomass trajectories for 12 species groups ranging from marine mammals through commercially exploited fish and invertebrates in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA). Ecosystem model fits under six alternative hypotheses relating fishing, climate, and predation were evaluated. Fishing alone explained few GOA biomass trajectories; it was necessary to both estimate specific predator–prey relationships and provide some mechanism for increased production. No single control hypothesis explained all species dynamics simultaneously, suggesting that in the GOA, there is no single main driver of the ecosystem. Furthermore, the alternative control hypotheses implied contrasting sets of predator–prey relationships (estimated functional response parameters). Therefore, a single set of “best fit” parameters for a given control hypothesis is unlikely to be useful in forecasting. Future modeling efforts supporting ecosystem-based fishery management could retain multiple working models to accommodate complex forcing (fishing, keystone species production, and environmental) differentially affecting components of the ecosystem.
Weakened portfolio effect in a collapsed salmon population complex
Authors: Carlson Stephanie Marie , Satterthwaite William Hallowell
Published: September 2011

Recent research has highlighted the importance of interpopulation diversity in fostering the stability of population complexes. Here we focus on California’s recently collapsed fall-run Chinook salmon ( Oncorhynchus tshawytscha ) and ask whether portfolio effect induced buffering is observed across the complexity hierarchy from individual populations to populations within a river basin (Sacramento, San Joaquin) to the entire Central Valley. Some buffering was observed when comparing the coefficient of variation in adult returns to a given river basin with its constituent populations but not when comparing returns to the entire Central Valley with its constituent basins because of disproportionately many fish returning to the Sacramento Basin. Moreover, we report that positive correlations in population dynamics between rivers were stronger in the last 25 years of the study compared with the first 25 years. Together, these results suggest evidence of only a weak portfolio effect that has deteriorated in recent years. Nonetheless, we also report that correlations between rivers decreased significantly with distance, suggesting that some biocomplexity remains. Our results suggest that the greatest potential for strengthening the portfolio effect would come through restoration of San Joaquin Basin populations, which at low abundance currently contribute little to the overall buffering capacity despite low cross-basin correlations.
A SIMPLE SOLUTION METHOD FOR THE FINITE HORIZON EOQ MODEL FOR DETERIORATING ITEMS WITH COST CHANGES
Authors: CHANG HORNG-JINH , LIN WEN-FENG
Published: September 2011

In this article, we generalize Lev and Weiss's (1990) finite horizon economic order quantity (EOQ) model with cost change to the inventory system with deterioration. Supplier announces some or all of cost parameters may change after a decided time. Depending on whether the inventory is depleted at the time of the last opportunity to purchase before some or all of the cost parameters may change, there are two types of inventory models to be discussed. The main objective of this paper is to identify the optimal ordering policy of the inventory system by comparing the minimum cost of the two types of models. We suggest a finite horizon EOQ model to combine the above two types and propose a theorem that can quickly identify the optimal policy of the suggested model. In considering temporary price discount problem and discrete-time EOQ problem, in general, there are integer operators in mathematical models, but our approach offers a closed-form solution to these kinds of problems. Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the results of the proposed properties and theorem.
CONVERGENCE ANALYSIS OF A REGULARIZED SAMPLE AVERAGE APPROXIMATION METHOD FOR STOCHASTIC MATHEMATICAL PROGRAMS WITH COMPLEMENTARITY CONSTRAINTS
Authors: LIU YONGCHAO , LIN GUI-HUA
Published: September 2011

Regularization method proposed by Scholtes (2011) has been a recognized approach for deterministic mathematical programs with complementarity constraints (MPCC). Meng and Xu (2006) applied the approach coupled with Monte Carlo techniques to solve a class of one stage stochastic MPCC and presented some promising numerical results. However, Meng and Xu have not presented any convergence analysis of the regularized sample approximation method. In this paper, we fill out this gap. Specifically, we consider a general class of one stage stochastic mathematical programs with complementarity constraint where the objective and constraint functions are expected values of random functions. We carry out extensive convergence analysis of the regularized sample average approximation problems including the convergence of statistical estimators of optimal solutions, C-stationary points, M-stationary points and B-stationary points as sample size increases and the regularization parameter tends to zero.
A DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR THE ALLOCATION OF YARD CRANES AND BLOCKS IN CONTAINER TERMINALS
Authors: ZHANG CANRONG , ZHANG ZHIHAI , ZHENG LI , MIAO LIXIN
Published: September 2011

This paper examines the allocation of yard cranes and blocks for yard activities in container terminals. In this paper, the yard cranes are confined to rail mounted gantry cranes (RMGC), which are characterized by the restricted traveling range on a pair of rails. Since RMGCs and yard blocks are tightly bound to each other, when allocating them, we should make sure that the RMGCs allocated for a yard activity are able to together cover the blocks allocated for the corresponding yard activity. In addition, considering that there are four basic activities occurring in the yard which compete with each other for the scarce resources and have different requirements and priorities in the allocation of blocks and yard cranes, we treat them in a single model rather than in multiple independent models as were generally done in literature. A mixed integer programming model is constructed, and an iterative decomposition solution procedure is proposed for the problem. Based on the solution procedure, a decision support system is developed and implemented for a terminal in Tianjin seaport. Using the actual data, the numerical experiments show the effectiveness and efficiency of the decision support system.
Depletion of gut commensal bacteria attenuates intestinal ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Yoshiya Kazuhisa , Lapchak Peter H. , Thai To-Ha , Kannan Lakshmi , Rani Poonam , Lucca Jurandir J. Dalle , Tsokos George C.
Published: September 2011

Gut commensal bacteria play important roles in the development and homeostasis of intestinal immunity. However, the role of gut commensals in intestinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is unclear. To determine the roles of gut commensal bacteria in intestinal IR injury, we depleted gut microbiota with a broad-spectrum antibiotic cocktail and performed mesenteric I/R (M I/R). First, we confirmed that antibiotic treatment completely depleted gut commensal bacteria and diminished the size of secondary lymphoid tissues such as the Peyer's patches. We next found that antibiotic treatment attenuated intestinal injury following M I/R. Depletion of gut commensal bacteria reduced the expression of Toll-like receptor (TLR)2 and TLR4 in the intestine. Both are well-known receptors for gram-positive and -negative bacteria. Decreased expression of TLR2 and TLR4 led to the reduction of inflammatory mediators, such as TNF, IL-6, and cyclooxygenase-2. Intestinal I/R injury is initiated when natural antibodies recognize neo-antigens that are revealed on ischemic cells and activate the complement pathway. Thus we evaluated complement and immunoglobulin (Ig) deposition in the damaged intestine and found that antibiotic treatment decreased the deposition of both C3 and IgM. Interestingly, we also found that the deposition of IgA also increased in the intestine following M I/R compared with control mice and that antibiotic treatment decreased the deposition of IgA in the damaged intestine. These results suggest that depletion of gut commensal bacteria decreases B cells, Igs, and TLR expression in the intestine, inhibits complement activation, and attenuates intestinal inflammation and injury following M I/R.
Circadian regulation of electrolyte absorption in the rat colon
Authors: Soták M. , Polidarová L. , Musílková J. , Hock M. , Sumová A. , Pácha J.
Published: September 2011

The intestinal transport of nutrients exhibits distinct diurnal rhythmicity, and the enterocytes harbor a circadian clock. However, temporal regulation of the genes involved in colonic ion transport, i.e., ion transporters and channels operating in absorption and secretion, remains poorly understood. To address this issue, we assessed the 24-h profiles of expression of genes encoding the sodium pump (subunits Atp1a1 and Atp1b1), channels (α-, β-, and γ-subunits of Enac and Cftr), transporters ( Dra, Ae1, Nkcc1, Kcc1, and Nhe3), and the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) regulatory factor ( Nherf1) in rat colonic mucosa. Furthermore, we investigated temporal changes in the spatial localization of the clock genes Per1, Per2, and Bmal1 and the genes encoding ion transporters and channels along the crypt axis. In rats fed ad libitum, the expression of Atp1a1, γ Enac, Dra, Ae1, Nhe3, and Nherf1 showed circadian variation with maximal expression at circadian time 12, i.e., at the beginning of the subjective night. The peak γ Enac expression coincided with the rise in plasma aldosterone. Restricted feeding phase advanced the expression of Dra, Ae1, Nherf, and γ Enac and decreased expression of Atp1a1. The genes Atp1b1, Cftr, α Enac, β Enac, Nkcc1, and Kcc1 did not show any diurnal variations in mRNA levels. A low-salt diet upregulated the expression of β Enac and γ Enac during the subjective night but did not affect expression of α Enac. Similarly, colonic electrogenic Na+ transport was much higher during the subjective night than the subjective day. These findings indicate that the transporters and channels operating in NaCl absorption undergo diurnal regulation and suggest a role of an intestinal clock in the coordination of colonic NaCl absorption.