bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
It is Possible: Availability of Lymphedema Case Management in each Health Facility in Togo. Program Description, Evaluation, and Lessons Learned
Authors: Mathieu Els , Dorkenoo Ameyo M. , Datagni Michael , Cantey Paul T. , Morgah Kodjo , Harvey Kira , Ziperstein Joshua , Drexler Naomi , Chapleau Gina , Sodahlon Yao
Published: May 2013

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a vector-borne parasitic disease that can clinically manifest as disabling lymphedema. Although the LF elimination program aims to reduce disability and to interrupt transmission, there has been a scarcity of disease morbidity management programs, particularly on a national scale. This report describes the implementation of the first nationwide LF lymphedema management program. The program, which was initiated in Togo in 2007, focuses on patient behavioral change. Its goal is two-fold: to achieve a sustainable program on a national-scale, and to serve as a model for other countries. The program has five major components: 1) train at least one health staff in lymphedema care in each health facility in Togo; 2) inform people with a swollen leg that care is available at their dispensary; 3) train patients on self-care; 4) provide a support system to motivate patients to continue self-care by training community health workers or family members and providing in home follow-up; and 5) integrate lymphedema management into the curriculum for medical staff. The program achieved the inclusion of lymphedema management in the routine healthcare package. The evaluation after three years estimated that 79% of persons with a swollen leg in Togo were enrolled in the program. The adherence rate to the proposed World Health Organization treatment of washing, exercise, and leg elevation was more than 70% after three years of the program, resulting in a stabilization of the lymphedema stage and a slight decrease in reported acute attacks among program participants. Health staff and patients consider the program successful in reaching and educating the patients. After the external funding ended, the morbidity management program is maintained through routine Ministry of Health activities.
High Genetic Diversity of Plasmodium vivax on the North Coast of Papua New Guinea
Authors: Arnott Alicia , Barnadas Celine , Senn Nicolas , Siba Peter , Mueller Ivo , Reeder John C. , Barry Alyssa E.
Published: May 2013

Despite having the highest Plasmodium vivax burden in the world, molecular epidemiological data from Papua New Guinea (PNG) for this parasite remain limited. To investigate the molecular epidemiology of P. vivax in PNG, 574 isolates collected from four catchment sites in East Sepik (N = 1) and Madang (N = 3) Provinces were genotyped using the markers MS16 and msp1F3. Genetic diversity and prevalence of P. vivax was determined for all sites. Despite a P. vivax infection prevalence in the East Sepik (15%) catchments less than one-half the prevalence of the Madang catchments (27–35%), genetic diversity was similarly high in all populations (He = 0.77–0.98). High genetic diversity, despite a marked difference in infection prevalence, suggests a large reservoir of diversity in P. vivax populations of PNG. Significant reductions in transmission intensity may, therefore, be required to reduce the diversity of parasite populations in highly endemic countries such as PNG.
Human Infection with Shewanella putrefaciens and S. algae: Report of 16 Cases in Martinique and Review of the Literature
Authors: Vignier Nicolas , Barreau Morgane , Olive Claude , Baubion Emilie , Théodose Rafaelle , Hochedez Patrick , Cabié André
Published: May 2013

Shewanella spp. are saprophytic bacteria that are part of the marine microflora in warm climates and are rarely pathogenic. However, Shewanella spp. infections are being increasingly reported, and there has been no comprehensive review of the literature describing these infections. This article reports 16 cases of Shewanella spp. infections in Martinique since 1997 and reviews another 239 cases reported in the literature since 1973. Patients experienced soft tissue infections, ear infection, or abdominal and biliary tract infections. A skin or mucosal portal of entry was found for 53% of the patients and exposure to the marine environment was reported for 44%; 79% of patients had an underlying condition. Bacteriema were frequent (28%). Most (87%) patients recovered, although ear infections can become chronic. Death occurred in 13% of the patients. Most Shewanella spp. isolates are susceptible to cefotaxime (95%), piperacillin and tazobactam (98%), gentamicin (99%), and ciprofloxacin (94%).
Using Museum Objects to Improve Wellbeing in Mental Health Service Users and Neurological Rehabilitation Clients
Authors: Ander Erica E , Thomson Linda JM , Blair Kathryn , Noble Guy , Menon Usha , Lanceley Anne , Chatterjee Helen J
Published: May 2013

Introduction:

The study investigated the impact of museum object handling sessions on hospital clients receiving occupational therapy in neurological rehabilitation and in an older adult acute inpatient mental health service.

Methods:

The research used a qualitative approach based on objectivist and constructionist methods, from which themes typical of the object handling sessions were derived.

Results:

Themes emerging from detailed analysis of discourse involving clients (n = 82) and healthcare staff (n = 8) comprised: distraction and decreasing negative emotion; increasing vitality and participation; tactile stimulation; conversational and social skills; increasing a sense of identity; novel perspectives and thoughts; learning new things; enjoyment and positive emotion. Critical success factors included good session facilitation for mitigating insecurity, ward staff support and the use of authentic heritage objects.

Conclusion:

Museums and their collections can be a valuable addition to cultural and arts occupations, in particular for long-stay hospital clients.
The Executive Dysfunctions Most Commonly Associated with Multiple Sclerosis and Their Impact on Occupational Performance
Authors: Preston Jenny , Hammersley Richard , Gallagher Helen
Published: May 2013

Introduction:

The relationship between executive dysfunction and functional status in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) is not fully understood. This study attempts to provide empirical evidence of the executive dysfunctions most commonly associated with MS and to develop an understanding of the impact of this on occupational performance.

Method:

This cross-sectional study explores the relationships between an MS group (n = 69) and a healthy control group (n = 30) using the Behavioural Assessment of Dysexecutive Syndrome and the Dysexecutive Questionnaire.

Results:

More than a third of people with MS experienced some impairment of executive function sufficient to interfere with occupational performance. The most commonly occurring problems included planning, problem solving, behavioural regulation, lack of insight, apathy and lack of motivation. Executive function deficits were evident from the early stages of the disease, although participants with a secondary progressive form of MS appeared to demonstrate greater difficulties.

Conclusion:

While the Behavioural Assessment of Dysexecutive Syndrome may reliably identify the presence of executive dysfunction within this clinical population it does not inform clinicians of the impact on occupational performance. Self-reported executive function demonstrates heightened awareness of occupational performance deficits and may lead to more accurate reporting of executive dysfunction. The impact of depression, fatigue and anxiety, however, requires further investigation.
Making Supervision and Ongoing Development Review a Productive Experience: An Integrated Approach
Authors: Smith Jane , Morley Mary
Published: May 2013

In a climate of financial constraint the National Health Service (NHS) faces the challenge of simultaneously improving productivity and enhancing quality. The pledges to staff within the NHS Constitution and the launch of a Simplified Knowledge and Skills Framework recognise that an appropriately trained workforce, that feels engaged with and valued by its employers, is pivotal to success. This opinion piece proposes that these policy developments have provided opportunities to develop integrated approaches to appraisal, continuing professional development and supervision that may balance the competing demands faced by therapists working in busy health and social care environments.
Output Growth and its Volatility: The Gold Standard through the Great Moderation
Authors: Fang WenShwo , Miller Stephen M.
Published: May 2013

This study examines the relationship between U.S. output growth and its volatility over the period 1876:I to 2012:II. We adjust the data for outliers and structural breaks. We employ generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) and exponential GARCH (EGARCH) specifications. Normality and homoskedasticity appear only in the GARCH or EGARCH model that corrects for the outliers. When including the break in the mean equation, high volatility persistence remains. After also accommodating the breaks in the variance equation, the integrated GARCH effect proves spurious, either for the symmetric or the asymmetric model. Finally, our empirical results suggest that the finding of higher output growth volatility stimulating output growth and higher output growth reducing its volatility obtained from the symmetric GARCH‐in‐mean (GARCH‐M) model also proves spurious as a result of the emergence of an asymmetric effect. Our more appropriately specified asymmetric EGARCH‐M model suggests positive volatility‐in‐mean and level effects in the long‐period real gross national product series.
Myopia, Discretion, and Commitment in a Two‐Period AS/AD Model
Authors: Kapinos Pavel S.
Published: May 2013

A large body of pedagogical literature has recently emerged to place the New Keynesian framework for analyzing business cycle fluctuations and the conduct of monetary policy into undergraduate economics curricula. This article develops the graphical apparatus for the analysis of optimal monetary policy in the context of a two‐period model under alternative assumptions about the formation of inflationary expectations. It demonstrates that differences in assumptions about the formation of inflationary expectations translate into quite different conclusions regarding the optimal conduct of monetary policy.
Intrusion of coastal waters into the pelagic eastern Mediterranean: in situ and satellite-based characterization
Authors: Efrati S. , Lehahn Y. , Rahav E. , Kress N. , Herut B. , Gertman I. , Goldman R. , Ozer T. , Lazar M. , Heifetz E.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. A combined dataset of near-real-time multi-satellite observations and in situ measurements from a high-resolution survey is used for characterizing physical-biogeochemical properties of a patch stretching from the coast to the open sea in the Levantine Basin (LB) of the eastern Mediterranean (EM). Spatial analysis of the combined dataset indicates that the patch is a semi-enclosed system, bounded within the mixed layer and separated from ambient waters by transport barriers induced by horizontal stirring. As such, the patch is characterized by physical-biogeochemical properties that significantly differ from those of the waters surrounding it, with lower salinity and higher temperatures, concentrations of silicic acid and chlorophyll a, and abundance of Synechococcus and picoeukaryote cells. Based on estimates of patch dimensions (∼40 km width and ∼25 m depth) and propagation speed (∼0.09 m s−1), the volume flux associated with the patch is found to be on the order of 0.1 Sv. Our observations suggest that horizontal stirring by surface currents is likely to have an important impact on the ultra-oligotrophic Levantine Basin ecosystem, through (1) transport of nutrients and coastally derived material, and (2) formation of local, dynamically isolated niches. In addition, this work provides a satellite-based framework for planning and executing high-resolution sampling strategies in the interface between the coast and the open sea.
Biological proxies recorded in a Belukha ice core, Russian Altai
Authors: Papina T. , Blyacharchyuk T. , Eichler A. , Malygina N. , Mitrofanova E. , Schwikowski M.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Different biological proxies such as pollen, cysts, and diatoms were identified and quantified in the upper part of a Belukha ice core from the Russian Altai. The ice core from the Belukha glacier collected in 2001 (4062 m a.s.l., 49°48' N, 86° 34' E) was analyzed with annual resolution in the period 1964–2000. We used daily data of the frequency of synoptic patterns observed in the Northern Hemisphere along with daily data of precipitation to identify the main modern sources of biological proxies deposited at the Belukha glacier. Our analyses revealed that main sources of diatoms in the Belukha ice core are water bodies of the Aral, Caspian, and North Kazakhstan basins. Coniferous trees pollen originated from the taiga forest of the boreal zone of West Siberia and pollen of hardwoods and herbs from steppe and forest steppe vegetation in the Northern Altai and East Kazakhstan. Cysts of algae and spores of inferior plants were transported from local water bodies and forests. The identified source regions of the biological species are supported by back trajectory analyses and are in good agreement with emission source regions of the trace species in the ice core.
A framework to assess the realism of model structures using hydrological signatures
Authors: Euser T. , Winsemius H. C. , Hrachowitz M. , Fenicia F. , Uhlenbrook S. , Savenije H. H. G.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The use of flexible hydrological model structures for hypothesis testing requires an objective and diagnostic method to identify whether a rainfall-runoff model structure is suitable for a certain catchment. To determine if a model structure is realistic, i.e. if it captures the relevant runoff processes, both performance and consistency are important. We define performance as the ability of a model structure to mimic a specific part of the hydrological behaviour in a specific catchment. This can be assessed based on evaluation criteria, such as the goodness of fit of specific hydrological signatures obtained from hydrological data. Consistency is defined as the ability of a model structure to adequately reproduce several hydrological signatures simultaneously while using the same set of parameter values. In this paper we describe and demonstrate a new evaluation Framework for Assessing the Realism of Model structures (FARM). The evaluation framework tests for both performance and consistency using a principal component analysis on a range of evaluation criteria, all emphasizing different hydrological behaviour. The utility of this evaluation framework is demonstrated in a case study of two small headwater catchments (Maimai, New Zealand, and Wollefsbach, Luxembourg). Eight different hydrological signatures and eleven model structures have been used for this study. The results suggest that some model structures may reveal the same degree of performance for selected evaluation criteria while showing differences in consistency. The results also show that some model structures have a higher performance and consistency than others. The principal component analysis in combination with several hydrological signatures is shown to be useful to visualise the performance and consistency of a model structure for the study catchments. With this framework performance and consistency are evaluated to identify which model structure suits a catchment better compared to other model structures. Until now the framework has only been based on a qualitative analysis and not yet on a quantitative analysis.
An original interpretation of the surface temperature-albedo space to estimate crop evapotranspiration (SEB-1S)
Authors: Merlin O.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The space defined by the pair surface temperature (T) and surface albedo (α), and the space defined by the pair T and fractional green vegetation cover (fvg) have been extensively used to estimate evaporative fraction (EF) from optical remote sensing data. In both space-based approaches, evapotranspiration (ET) is estimated as remotely sensed EF times the available energy. For a given data point in the T − α space or in the T − fvg space, EF is derived as the ratio of the distance separating the point from the line identified as the dry edge to the distance separating the dry edge and the line identified as the wet edge. The dry and wet edges are classically defined as the upper and lower limit of the spaces, respectively. When side-by-side investigating the T − α and the T − fvg spaces, one observes that the range covered by T values on the (classically determined) wet edge is different for both spaces. In addition, when extending the wet and dry lines of the T − α space, both lines cross at α ≈ 0.4 although the wet and dry edges of the T − fvg space never cross for 0 ≤ fvg < 1. In this paper, a new ET (EF) model (SEB-1S) is derived by revisiting the classical physical interpretation of the T − α space to make its wet edge consistent with that of the T − fvg space. SEB-1S is tested over a 16 km by 10 km irrigated area in northwestern Mexico during the 2007–2008 agricultural season. The classical T − α space-based model is implemented as benchmark to evaluate the performance of SEB-1S. Input data are composed of ASTER (Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection radiometer) thermal infrared, Formosat-2 shortwave, and station-based meteorological data. The fluxes simulated by SEB-1S and the classical T − α space-based model are compared on seven ASTER overpass dates with the in situ measurements collected at six locations within the study domain. The ET simulated by SEB-1S is significantly more accurate and robust than that predicted by the classical T − α space-based model. The correlation coefficient and slope of the linear regression between simulated and observed ET is improved from 0.82 to 0.93, and from 0.63 to 0.90, respectively. Moreover, constraining the wet edge using air temperature data improves the slope of the linear regression between simulated and observed ET.
A framework for profiling the characteristics of risk governance in natural hazard contexts
Authors: Walker G. , Tweed F. , Whittle R.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The observed moves over recent decades away from government towards a broader practice of "governance" is as relevant to the handling of natural hazards as it is to other societal concerns. Key characteristics of this change include the emergence of multi-level governance processes and the "hollowing out" of the nation state; shifts away from the exercise of centralised authority towards the involvement and collaboration of a multiplicity of actors specific to each policy area; the creation of new forms of authority and control; and changing distributions of responsibilities between the state and other actors. However, the extent to which these shifts have taken place across the full diversity of national contexts in Europe, and can be observed specifically in relation to the governance of natural hazards, is very much open to judgement and debate. In this paper, we propose a framework for profiling risk governance in relation to key characteristics identified in both the general governance literature and in more specific work on risk governance. This framework can be flexibly applied in relation to a specific hazard and national/regional context and enables qualitative profiling across a spectrum of eight governance characteristics. Past trends and likely future changes can also be represented. We discuss the formulation of this framework as well as illustrating how it can be used in a process of discussion and debate about risk governance issues. We provide examples of the ways in which the profiling approach can enable comparison between risk governance contexts and approaches, and how it can be used in a variety of potential settings.
Peritoneal EMH in a Dog with Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia
Authors: Brenner Karen , Pohlman Lisa , Muldowney Ian , Petersen Don , Schermerhorn Thomas
Published: May 2013

Extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) is the process by which normal blood cells are produced outside the bone marrow. In humans, EMH effusions are rare and are characterized by the presence of megakaryocytes, immature erythrocytes, immature leukocytes, or combinations of those cells. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report to describe a case of peritoneal EMH effusion in a dog. A 5 yr old castrated male shorthaired dachshund presented with a 2 day history of pigmenturia and inappetence. A complete blood count revealed regenerative anemia with marked agglutination, spherocytosis, and an acute inflammatory leukogram characterized by a neutrophilia, regenerative left shift, and monocytosis. Ultrasound-guided aspiration of peritoneal effusion yielded a sample of high nucleated cellularity predominantly composed of mature and immature neutrophils and erythroid precursor cells. The patient was diagnosed with primary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia with concurrent EMH peritoneal effusion. The following case description and discussion explore the clinical findings associated with the unusual effusion and outline the possible pathogenesis by which the EMH effusion may have arisen in the dog.
How Can We Reduce Our Energy Use to Keep Costs under Control?
Authors: Lauer William C.
Published: May 2013

Water and wastewater utilities can account for nearly 40 percent of a small city's energy use. With more than 100,000 small systems, there's a great opportunity to save energy and have a national impact. By more efficiently managing its energy use, each community can significantly affect operational costs and improve its financial sustainability.
The Feasibility of Reactive Dye in PVA Films as High Dosimeter
Authors: Shaheen Akhtar  , Taqmeem Hussain  , Aamir Shahzad  , Qamar-ul-Islam
Published: May 2013

The gamma dosimetric response of the Methylene Blue (MB) in Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) films was investigated. The spectrophotometric analysis was done to observe the changes in these films at pre and post irradiation. The PVA based films were irradiated using Cs137 γ-source within dose range (100-200) kGy. The effect of concentration of dyes, pH of the dyed solutions and thickness of dyed films were employed as the dosimetric parameters in this study. The stability of MB-PVA films before and after irradiation was examined at ambient temperature. MB-PVA films were found to be light sensitive. Owing to simple preparation and absence of any toxic solvents during preparation, PVA based films were found to be docile for large-scale production and application for routine irradiation processes of medical equipments.
Louis Dantin et l’écriture autobiographique
Authors: Hayward Annette
Published: May 2013

Un des aspects les plus fascinants de ce Québécois surdoué qu’on connaît sous le nom de Louis Dantin est l’histoire de sa vie. Il en était conscient, comme en témoigne son souci de livrer des éléments autobiographiques, que ce soit dans sa correspondance, ses oeuvres lyriques, son « esquisse autobiographique » ou dans Les enfances de Fanny, qu’il qualifiait de « roman autobiographique ». Même s’il n’a pas osé publier plusieurs de ces textes de son vivant, son exemple a inspiré beaucoup d’écrivains de l’entre-deux-guerres. Cet article examine les différents volets de son discours autobiographique tout en suggérant que la complexité de cet homme, qui était en avance sur son temps, dépasse nettement l’image qu’il a osé livrer dans ses écrits.
Se préfacer, dans l’oubli de soi-même
Authors: Bonenfant Luc
Published: May 2013

Louis Dantin est-il l’auteur des vers de Nelligan ? En répondant provisoirement oui à cette question, posée par Valdombre en 1938 et depuis reprise par de nombreux critiques, cet article s’intéresse au problème de l’allonymie chez Dantin. L’étude comparée de textes poétiques et narratifs « signés » par Nelligan, Silvio et Eugène Seers permet en effet de dégager une allégorèse de type biographique où l’écrivain se ferait le fossoyeur de lui-même et de ses masques. Les allonymes et autres noms propres qui désignent provisoirement l’écrivain participent ainsi d’une axiologie euphorique où, en s’absorbant tous dans celui de Louis Dantin, ils signent en définitive la naissance possible et efficace de Dantin lui-même, ce nom devenant d’office la marque persistante de l’homme, c’est-à-dire celle sous laquelle l’histoire le retiendra tout autant comme poète que comme critique.
Les enfances de Fanny : un roman américain
Authors: Morency Jean
Published: May 2013

Publié à titre posthume en 1951, Les enfances de Fanny s’avère beaucoup plus qu’un roman autobiographique dans lequel Louis Dantin aurait courageusement bravé les interdits de son époque. Cette oeuvre constitue en fait l’aboutissement de l’exil de Dantin aux États-Unis et de son intégration socioculturelle à son milieu d’accueil. Rien de « canadien » en effet dans Les enfances de Fanny, si ce n’est l’usage du français, Dantin s’inspirant plutôt de ses lectures américaines, qui forment la matière de ses chroniques sur le livre américain publiées dans Le Jour et qui contribuent à tisser, dans le roman, tout un réseau thématique et intertextuel qui contribue à faire de cette oeuvre un grand roman américain.
Portrait de Réjean Ducharme en messie des lettres québécoises 1
Authors: Chabot Julien-Bernard
Published: May 2013

Cet article propose une étude de la réception des oeuvres de Réjean Ducharme dans le contexte de la décennie 1960, époque où prévaut un imaginaire du temps qui appelle le changement à s’incarner, à prendre corps et visage humains. Ce désir d’emblématisation se traduit, dans le domaine des lettres québécoises, par l’attente du « grand écrivain » qui officialiserait la réussite du projet de modernisation propre à la Révolution tranquille. L’accueil réservé aux premières oeuvres de Ducharme, qui a donné lieu à ce que l’on appelle désormais « l’affaire Ducharme », a été directement influencé par ce climat de messianisme littéraire, et plus particulièrement par l’écart mesurable entre le désir de faire de l’auteur un emblème du renouveau national et la volonté de l’auteur de se retirer de la sphère publique.
Insertion en emploi et TED : analyse des retombées et des enjeux politiques d’un projet pilote
Authors: Dumais Lucie , Prohet Alexandra , Archambault Léonie
Published: May 2013

L’équipe de recherche a évalué un projet pilote visant l’insertion professionnelle de personnes ayant un trouble envahissant du développement (TED). Au terme du projet de 36 mois, 29 % des 45 participants occupaient un emploi rémunéré, souvent au-delà du salaire minimum. L’analyse des données a permis de constater que les méthodes d’intervention ont évolué en cours de projet, que plusieurs objectifs ont été atteints, mais que le rodage du modèle n’a pas été possible. L’analyse des processus a permis de cerner les enjeux d’une dynamique partenariale ainsi que ceux associés aux intérêts politiques en contexte d’expérimentation. Dans l’ensemble, le projet a servi à mieux cerner les critères d’une intégration en emploi réussie et à saisir comment s’élaborent des services et programmes d’insertion.
A novel sphingolipid-TORC1 pathway critically promotes postembryonic development in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Zhu Huanhu , Shen Huali , Sewell Aileen K , Kniazeva Marina , Han Min
Published: May 2013

Regulation of animal development in response to nutritional cues is an intensely studied problem related to disease and aging. While extensive studies indicated roles of the Target of Rapamycin (TOR) in sensing certain nutrients for controlling growth and metabolism, the roles of fatty acids and lipids in TOR-involved nutrient/food responses are obscure. Caenorhabditis elegans halts postembryonic growth and development shortly after hatching in response to monomethyl branched-chain fatty acid (mmBCFA) deficiency. Here, we report that an mmBCFA-derived sphingolipid, d17iso-glucosylceramide, is a critical metabolite in regulating growth and development. Further analysis indicated that this lipid function is mediated by TORC1 and antagonized by the NPRL-2/3 complex in the intestine. Strikingly, the essential lipid function is bypassed by activating TORC1 or inhibiting NPRL-2/3. Our findings uncover a novel lipid-TORC1 signaling pathway that coordinates nutrient and metabolic status with growth and development, advancing our understanding of the physiological roles of mmBCFAs, ceramides, and TOR.
MicroRNA-146a acts as a guardian of the quality and longevity of hematopoietic stem cells in mice
Authors: Zhao Jimmy L , Rao Dinesh S , O’Connell Ryan M , Garcia-Flores Yvette , Baltimore David
Published: May 2013

During inflammation and infection, hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells are stimulated to proliferate and differentiate into mature immune cells, especially of the myeloid lineage. MicroRNA-146a (miR-146a) is a critical negative regulator of inflammation. Deletion of miR-146a produces effects that appear as dysregulated inflammatory hematopoiesis, leading to a decline in the number and quality of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), excessive myeloproliferation, and, ultimately, to HSC exhaustion and hematopoietic neoplasms. At the cellular level, the defects are attributable to both an intrinsic problem in the miR-146a–deficient HSCs and extrinsic effects of lymphocytes and nonhematopoietic cells. At the molecular level, this involves a molecular axis consisting of miR-146a, signaling protein TRAF6, transcriptional factor NF-κB, and cytokine IL-6. This study has identified miR-146a to be a critical regulator of HSC homeostasis during chronic inflammation in mice and provided a molecular connection between chronic inflammation and the development of bone marrow failure and myeloproliferative neoplasms.
Predicting mosquito infection from Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte density and estimating the reservoir of infection
Authors: Churcher Thomas S , Bousema Teun , Walker Martin , Drakeley Chris , Schneider Petra , Ouédraogo André Lin , Basáñez María-Gloria
Published: May 2013

Transmission reduction is a key component of global efforts to control and eliminate malaria; yet, it is unclear how the density of transmission stages (gametocytes) influences infection (proportion of mosquitoes infected). Human to mosquito transmission was assessed using 171 direct mosquito feeding assays conducted in Burkina Faso and Kenya. Plasmodium falciparum infects Anopheles gambiae efficiently at low densities (4% mosquitoes at 1/µl blood), although substantially more (>200/µl) are required to increase infection further. In a site in Burkina Faso, children harbour more gametocytes than adults though the non-linear relationship between gametocyte density and mosquito infection means that (per person) they only contribute slightly more to transmission. This method can be used to determine the reservoir of infection in different endemic settings. Interventions reducing gametocyte density need to be highly effective in order to halt human–mosquito transmission, although their use can be optimised by targeting those contributing the most to transmission.
The rise and fall of the Phytophthora infestans lineage that triggered the Irish potato famine
Authors: Yoshida Kentaro , Schuenemann Verena J , Cano Liliana M , Pais Marina , Mishra Bagdevi , Sharma Rahul , Lanz Chirsta , Martin Frank N , Kamoun Sophien , Krause Johannes , Thines Marco , Weigel Detlef , Burbano Hernán A
Published: May 2013

Phytophthora infestans, the cause of potato late blight, is infamous for having triggered the Irish Great Famine in the 1840s. Until the late 1970s, P. infestans diversity outside of its Mexican center of origin was low, and one scenario held that a single strain, US-1, had dominated the global population for 150 years; this was later challenged based on DNA analysis of historical herbarium specimens. We have compared the genomes of 11 herbarium and 15 modern strains. We conclude that the 19th century epidemic was caused by a unique genotype, HERB-1, that persisted for over 50 years. HERB-1 is distinct from all examined modern strains, but it is a close relative of US-1, which replaced it outside of Mexico in the 20th century. We propose that HERB-1 and US-1 emerged from a metapopulation that was established in the early 1800s outside of the species' center of diversity.
Ocean Sustainability Issues Are Focus of Industry Gathering
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: May 2013

How can industry operate in the oceans sustainably? Is there a broadly agreed upon definition of sustainability? How can industry and others deal with conflicting uses in the oceans? These were among the questions explored at a recent ocean industry leadership conference that brought together several hundred participants from business, nongovernmental organizations, and governments from around the world.
Report Calls for “Transdisciplinary” Research and Collaboration Between Academia and Industry
Authors: Balcerak Ernie
Published: May 2013

A new report by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences calls for increased integration across academic disciplines and increased coordination between academia and industry to help solve societal problems and maintain the United States' competiveness in science and technology in a global economy.
Progress and Future Directions in North American Carbon Cycle Science
Authors: Michalak Anna , Huntzinger Deborah , Shrestha Gyami
Published: May 2013

The North American Carbon Program (NACP) convened its fourth biennial “All Investigators” meeting (AIM4, http://www.nacarbon.org/meeting_2013) to review progress in understanding the dynamics of the carbon cycle of North America and adjacent oceans and to chart a course for a more integrative and holistic approach to future research. The meeting was structured around the six decadal goals outlined in the new “A U.S. Carbon Cycle Science Plan” (Michalak et al., University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, 2011, available at http://www.carboncyclescience.gov) and focused on (1) diagnosis of the atmospheric carbon cycle, (2) drivers of anthropogenic emissions, (3) vulnerability of carbon stocks to change, (4) ecosystem impacts of change, (5) carbon management, and (6) decision support.
Monitoring subsidence and vent wall collapse on Kīlauea Volcano, Hawaii
Authors: Balcerak Ernie
Published: May 2013

Kīlauea Volcano in Hawaii experienced its first summit eruption in 26 years when a new vent along the east wall of Halema'uma'u Crater opened in March 2008. Since that time, the vent has become wider as parts of the wall around it became unstable and collapsed into the active lava lake within the vent, sometimes triggering small explosions. Richter et al. have monitored surface deformation in the area around the new vent since 2008 using interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) from the TerraSAR‐X satellite along with a digital elevation model of the topography based on lidar data. The scientists were able to generate interferograms (a type of image) with a pixel resolution of about 3 meters, which revealed centimeter‐scale subsidence in the area within 100 meters of the vent rim. They note that this deformation cannot be detected by other techniques.
Asymptotically stable detection of a weak signal
Authors: Shevlyakov Georgy , Shin Vladimir , Lee Seokhyoung , Kim Kiseon
Published: May 2013

To design highly efficient and robust detectors of a weak signal, an asymptotic approach to stable estimation exploiting redescending score functions is used. Two new indicators of robustness of detection, the detection error sensitivity and detection stability, are introduced. The optimal Neyman–Pearson rules maximizing detection efficiency under the guaranteed level of detection stability are written out. Under heavy‐tailed noise distributions, the proposed asymptotically stable detectors based on redescending score functions, namely, the minimum error sensitivity and the radical ones, outperform conventional linear bounded Huber's and redescending Hampel's detectors both on small and large samples. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Graphene Oxide and Copper‐Centered Metal Organic Framework Composite as a Tri‐Functional Catalyst for HER, OER, and ORR
Authors: Jahan Maryam , Liu Zhaolin , Loh Kian Ping
Published: May 2013

A composite made from the assembly of graphene oxide (GO) and copper‐centered metal organic framework (MOF) shows good performance as a tri‐functional catalyst in three important electrocatalysis reactions, namely: the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). One of the challenges in the area of electrocatalysis is to find an effective catalyst that will reduce, as well as generate, oxygen at moderate temperatures. The enhanced electrocatalytic properties and stability in acid of the GO‐MOF composite is due to the unqiue porous scaffold structure, improved charge transport and synergistic interactions between the GO and MOF. In polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell testing, the GO‐incorporated Cu‐MOF composite delivers a power density that is 76% that of the commercial Pt catalyst.
Report of a patient with developmental delay, hearing loss, growth retardation, and cleft lip and palate and a deletion of 7q34‐36.1: Review of distal 7q deletions
Authors: Rush Eric T. , Stevens Jadd M. , Sanger Warren G. , Olney Ann H.
Published: May 2013

The use of aCGH has improved our ability to find subtle cytogenetic abnormalities as well as to find more precise information in patients with previously known abnormalities. In addition, it has allowed more specific genotype–phenotype correlation. In this report we describe a patient with a chromosomal deletion initially diagnosed with conventional cytogenetic analysis which was redemonstrated and more specifically described upon aCGH analysis. Our patient is a 12‐year‐old female born to a 26‐year‐old G1P0 mother. She was noted as a neonate to have a bilateral cleft lip and cleft palate, abnormal external ears, dysmorphic facies, and moderate to severe hearing loss. She has subsequently shown developmental delay, hyperreflexia, seizures, hyperactivity, and absence of speech. Chromosomal analysis showed deletion of 7q34q36.1. FISH studies confirmed the deletion was interstitial. Parental chromosomes were performed and did not show any cytogenetic abnormalities. aCGH was recently performed for the patient to further characterize the breakpoints of the deletion and confirmed the deletion was interstitial and of 13.2 Mb in size. Both proximal and terminal 7q deletion show a different phenotype than that of our patient. A number of patients with similar deletions have been found and while significant variability is observed, a number of findings appear to be common to deletions in this region. Therefore, we feel that distal interstitial deletions of chromosome 7q represent a recognizable phenotype and could be considered a separate deletion syndrome. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Focal dermal hypoplasia (goltz–gorlin syndrome): A new case with a novel variant in the PORCN gene (c.1250T>C:p.F417S) and unusual spinal anomaly
Authors: Garavelli Livia , Simonte Graziella , Rosato Simonetta , Wischmeijer Anita , Albertini Enrico , Guareschi Elisa , Longo Caterina , Albertini Giuseppe , Gelmini Chiara , Greco Chiara , Errico Stefania , Savino Gustavo , Pavanello Marco , Happle Rudolf , Unger Sheila , Superti‐Furga Andrea , Grzeschik Karl‐Heinz
Published: May 2013

Focal dermal hypoplasia (FDH; Goltz–Gorlin syndrome; OMIM 305600) is a disorder that features involvement of the skin, skeletal system, and eyes. It is caused by loss‐of‐function mutations in the PORCN gene. We report a young girl with FDH, microphthalmos associated with colobomatous orbital cyst, dural ectasia and cystic malformation of the spinal cord, and a de novo variant in PORCN. This association has not been previously reported, and based on these observations the phenotypic spectrum of FDH might be broader than previously appreciated. It would be prudent to alter the suggested surveillance for this rare disorder. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The value of the clinical geneticist caring for adults with congenital heart disease: Diagnostic yield and patients' perspective
Authors: van Engelen Klaartje , Baars Marieke J.H. , Felix Joyce P. , Postma Alex V. , Mulder Barbara J.M. , Smets Ellen M.A.
Published: May 2013

For adult patients with congenital heart disease (CHD), knowledge about the origin and inheritance of their CHD is important. Clinical geneticists may play a significant role in their care. We explored the diagnostic yield of clinical genetic consultation of adult CHD patients, patients' motivations for the consultation, implications for reproductive decisions, patients' evaluation of the impact of provided information, and satisfaction with counseling. Chart review was performed on all adult patients referred for CHD to our clinical genetics department between 2000 and 2011 (n = 90). Additionally, a questionnaire was sent to those patients referred between 2005 and 2011 (n = 64), of which 46 useful questionnaires were returned (72% response). Of patients without an etiological diagnosis at referral (n = 83), 17 (20%) were eventually diagnosed with syndromic CHD, 6 (7%) with nonsyndromic monogenetic CHD and 45 (54%) with nonsyndromic multifactorial CHD. The diagnosis remained undetermined in 15 (18%) patients. Half of patients who returned the questionnaire had purposefully postponed having children until after genetic consultation and 13% had changed their mind about having children or not after the consultation. Counseling was valued positively. In this study, we showed the added value of clinical genetic consultation in the care for adult CHD patients: it improves diagnostics by establishing an etiological diagnosis and associated recurrence risk in a substantial proportion of patients and leads to more informed reproductive decisions. With new genetic testing technologies an etiological diagnosis may be established in an increasing number of patients in the near future. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Protecting‐group‐free palladium‐catalyzed hydroxylation, C–O and C–N coupling of chiral 6‐bromo‐ and 6,6’‐dibromo‐ 1,1’‐binaphthols
Authors: Dong Junyu , Li Tianbin , Dai Chuan , Weng Wen , Xue Xinghua , Zhang Yuyu , Zeng Qingle
Published: May 2013

A straightforward, protecting‐group‐free protocol for the synthesis of chiral 6‐substituted and 6,6’‐disubstituted binols (binol = 1,1’‐bi‐2‐naphthol) by palladium‐catalyzed hydroxylation, C–N and C–O coupling of chiral 6‐bromo‐ and 6,6’ ‐dibromo‐1,1’‐binaphthols is developed. The protecting group free palladium‐catalyzed hydroxylation, C–O and C–N cross‐coupling protocol affords a straightforward and general method for the synthesis of chiral 6‐substituted and 6,6’‐disubstituted binols with good yields, avoiding the tedious procedures of introduction and removal of protecting groups. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, characterization and cytotoxicity of Pt(II), Pd(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes with 4’‐substituted terpyridine
Authors: Wang Shuxiang , Chu Wenhao , Wang Yuechai , Liu Siyuan , Zhang Jinchao , Li Shenghui , Wei Haiying , Zhou Guoqiang , Qin Xinying
Published: May 2013

Eight novel Pt(II), Pd(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes with 4’‐substituted terpyridine were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, UV, IR, NMR, electron paramagnetic resonance, high‐resolution mass spectrometry and molar conductivity measurements. The cytotoxicity of these complexes against HL‐60, BGC‐823, KB and Bel‐7402 cell lines was evaluated by MTT assay. All the complexes displayed cytotoxicity with low IC50 values (<20 μm) and showed selectivity. Complexes 3, 5, 7 and 8 exerted 9‐, 5‐, 12‐ and 7‐fold higher cytotoxicity than cisplatin against Bel‐7402 cell line. The cytotoxicity of complexes 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8 was higher than that of cisplatin against BGC‐823 cell line. Complexes 3, 7 and 8 showed similar cytotoxicity to cisplatin against KB cell line. Complex 7 exhibited higher cytotoxicity than cisplatin against HL‐60 cell line. Among these complexes, complex 7 demonstrated the highest in vitro cytotoxicity, with IC50 values of 1.62, 3.59, 2.28 and 0.63 μm against HL‐60, BGC‐823, Bel‐7402 and KB cells lines, respectively. The results suggest that the cytotoxicity of these complexes is related to the nature of the terminal group of the ligand, the metal center and the leaving groups. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal integration of heat transfer fluid systems
Authors: Bade Mukund H. , Bandyopadhyay Santanu
Published: May 2013

Appropriate integration of subsystems results in an energy‐efficient and cost‐effective design of the overall system. In many industrial applications, heat transfer fluid (HTF) is used to supply required amount of heat to multiple heat demands from a single heat source. Appropriate integration of fired heater with a process leads to overall reduction in energy requirement as well as capital investment. In this paper, four methodologies are developed to integrate fired heater appropriately with a process. Firstly, a targeting methodology is proposed to determine the minimum HTF flow rate to supply heat from single heater to multiple heat demands. Secondly, a methodology to integrate radiant fired heater with a process through HTF is discussed. Thirdly, indirect integration of fired heater, incorporating energy recovery from flue gas through the air preheater, is developed. Finally, improvement of overall energy efficiency by utilizing process heat below pinch through air preheating is demonstrated. It is also illustrated that the number of fired heater can be reduced, and hence, the total cost of the system can also be reduced by indirect integration. © 2013 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association between operative approach and complications in patients undergoing Hartmann's reversal
Authors: Cellini C , Deeb A-P , Sharma A , Monson J R T , Fleming F J
Published: May 2013

Background

Complications following reversal of Hartmann's procedure are common, with morbidity rates of up to 50 per cent, and a mortality rate as high as 10 per cent. This is based on case series with heterogeneous data collection and analysis. This study determined risk factors for complications following Hartmann's reversal.

Methods

Patients who underwent elective open and laparoscopic Hartmann's reversal were identified from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database (2005–2010). The programme collects patient demographics, preoperative medical history, clinical findings and laboratory investigations. Postdischarge data were obtained by a certified reviewer. Complications were categorized as major, septic or incisional. Risk-adjusted 30-day outcomes were assessed by univariable and multivariable analyses, adjusting for patient characteristics, co-morbidity and operative approach.

Results

During the study period 7996 patients had a Hartmann's procedure and 2567 cases of Hartmann's reversal were identified, including 336 laparoscopic procedures (13·1 per cent). Major, septic and incisional complication rates were 13·3, 8·5 and 15·7 per cent respectively, with a mortality rate of 0·5 per cent. A laparoscopic approach was found to be independently associated with fewer major (odds ratio (OR) 0·53, 95 per cent confidence interval 0·34 to 0·81), septic (OR 0·48, 0·27 to 0·83) and incisional (OR 0·54, 0·37 to 0·80) complications. A history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR 1·78–2·00), steroid use (OR 1·75), body mass index at least 30 kg/m2 (OR 1·48), diabetes (OR 1·40), smoking (OR 1·33–1·40), American Society of Anesthesiologists fitness grade III and IV (OR 1·46–1·48) and prolonged operating time (OR 1·02) were other factors associated with complications.

Conclusion

A laparoscopic approach to Hartmann's reversal was associated with fewer complications than open surgery in this highly selected group of patients.