bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ligand binding and self‐association cooperativity of β‐lactoglobulin
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Magdaleno Gabriel , Bello Martiniano , Portillo‐Téllez M. Carmen , Rodríguez‐Romero Adela , García‐Hernández Enrique
Published: January 2013

Unlike most small globular proteins, lipocalins lack a compact hydrophobic core. Instead, they present a large central cavity that functions as the primary binding site for hydrophobic molecules. Not surprisingly, these proteins typically exhibit complex structural dynamics in solution, which is intricately modified by intermolecular recognition events. Although many lipocalins are monomeric, an increasing number of them have been proven to form oligomers. The coupling effects between self‐association and ligand binding in these proteins are largely unknown. To address this issue, we have calorimetrically characterized the recognition of dodecyl sulfate by bovine β‐lactoglobulin, which forms weak homodimers at neutral pH. A thermodynamic analysis based on coupled‐equilibria revealed that dimerization exerts disparate effects on the ligand‐binding capacity of β‐lactoglobulin. Protein dimerization decreases ligand affinity (or, reciprocally, ligand binding promotes dimer dissociation). The two subunits in the dimer exhibit a positive, entropically driven cooperativity. To investigate the structural determinants of the interaction, the crystal structure of β‐lactoglobulin bound to dodecyl sulfate was solved at 1.64 Å resolution. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of amino acid residues participated in substrate recognition by cytochrome P450 subfamilies with broad substrate specificity
Authors: Zharkova Maria S. , Sobolev Boris N. , Yu. Oparina Nina , Veselovsky Alexander V. , Archakov Alexander I.
Published: January 2013

Cytochromes P450 comprise a large superfamily and several of their isoforms play a crucial role in metabolism of xenobiotics, including drugs. Although these enzymes demonstrate broad and cross‐substrate specificity, different cytochrome P450 subfamilies exhibit certain selectivity for some types of substrates. Analysis of amino acid residues of the active sites of six cytochrome subfamilies (CYP1А, CYP2А, CYP2С, CYP2D, CYP2E and CYP3А) enables to define subfamily‐specific patterns that consist of four residues. These residues are located on the periphery of the active sites of these cytochromes. We suggest that they can form a primary binding site at the entrance to the active site, defining cytochrome substrate recognition. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐resolution separation of homogeneous chitooligomers series from 2‐mers to 7‐mers by ion‐exchange chromatography
Authors: Li Kecheng , Liu Song , Xing Ronge , Yu Huahua , Qin Yukun , Li Rongfeng , Li Pengcheng
Published: January 2013

Highly purified chitooligomers with single degree of polymerization are of significance for studying bioactivity of chitooligomers. However, there are few reports on high‐resolution preparative separation of chitooligomers, especially for those oligomers with degree of polymerization higher than 4. This study developed a high‐resolution chromatography for the preparative separation of a pure fully deacetylated chitooligomer series. A glucosamine oligomer mixture with low degree of polymerization was prepared by acid hydrolysis of a highly deacetylated chitosan. Then, six fractions were separated from the prepared oligomer mixture by ion‐exchange chromatography and analyzed by HPLC and ESI/MS, which primarily contained glucosamine dimers, trimers, tetramers, pentamers, hexamers, and heptamers, respectively, with chromatographic purities over 98% for dimers to hexamers and a purity of 93% for heptamers. The yields of a single round of separation were 75, 60, 60, 55, 35, and 20 mg for glucosamine dimers, trimers, tetramers, pentamers, hexamers, and heptamers, respectively. Furthermore, a chromatographic separation model for GlcN homomers was established. The capacity factor (k) of glucosamine oligomers and their degrees of polymerization (DPs) exhibited a good correlation, lnk = 0.786 + 0.846 lnDP, (R2 = 0.997). Based on this equation, glucosamine octamers are expected to be separated by this system.
Simultaneous determination of main reaction components in the reaction mixture during biodiesel production
Authors: Šánek Lubomír , Pecha Jiří , Kolomazník Karel
Published: January 2013

The proposed analytical method allows for simultaneous determination by GC using a programed temperature vaporization injector and a flame ionization detector of the main reaction components (i.e. glycerol, methyl esters, mono‐, di‐, and triacylglycerols) in the reaction mixture during biodiesel production. The suggested method is convenient for the rapid and simple evaluation of the kinetic data gained during the transesterification reaction and, also partially serves as an indicator of the quality of biodiesel and mainly, as the indicator of the efficiency of the whole production process (i.e. the conversion of triacylglycerols to biodiesel and its time progress). The optimization of chromatographic conditions (e.g. the oven temperature program, injector setting, amount of derivatization reagent, and the derivatization reaction time) was performed. The method has been validated with crude samples of biodiesel made from waste‐cooking oils in terms of linearity, precision, accuracy, sensitivity, and limits of detection and quantification. The results confirmed a satisfactory degree of accuracy and repeatability (the mean RSDs were usually below 2%) necessary for the reliable quantitative determination of all components in the considerable concentration range (e.g. 10–1100 μg/mL in case of methyl esters). Compound recoveries ranging from 96 to 104% were obtained.
Screening of Film‐Formation Qualities of Various Solvent Systems for π‐Conjugated Polymers Via Combinatorial Inkjet Printing
Authors: Teichler Anke , Perelaer Jolke , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: January 2013

A systematic investigation of the relationships between the choice of solvent system and the film quality of inkjet printed π‐conjugated polymer films is presented. Solution properties, such as surface tension and viscosity, have no effect on the final film quality, whereas the boiling point of the solvent and, more specifically, the difference in boiling point between the main and the co‐solvent have a strong influence on the final film quality. New solvent systems are developed based on non‐chlorinated, aromatic solvents that reveal homogeneous films when the difference in boiling point between the main and the co‐solvent is between 90 and 100 °C.
Enrichment of True Positives from Structural Alerts Through the Use of Novel Atomic Fragment Based Descriptors
Authors: Long Anthony , Rydberg Patrik
Published: January 2013

To enhance the discrimination rate for methods applying structural alerts and biotransformation rules in the prediction of toxicity and drug metabolism we have developed a set of novel fragment based atomic descriptors. These atomic descriptors encode the properties of the fragments separating an atom from the closest end of a branch or the molecule. The end of a branch and the end of a molecule, as well as the selection of the fragments, are made by an algorithm that uses only the distance matrix of the molecule. The novel descriptors are applied to a small set of biotransformation rules and are shown to be able to reduce the number of unconfirmed positives by up to 58 %.
The eTOX Library of Public Resources for in Silico Toxicity Prediction
Authors: Cases M. , Pastor M. , Sanz F.
Published: January 2013

(1000–1500 characters) In spite of the increasing amount of public access resources that offer original data related to drug toxicology, the successful exploitation of such data for the development of in silico predictive models is still limited by the quality of the data available, its integrability and its coverage for each toxicity endpoint. This work describes the strategy developed by the IMI eTOX consortium for identifying and compiling data and other related resources from the biomedical literature and a wide spectrum of public on‐line sources. The main result of this effort is a large web‐based structured library containing links to articles of toxicological relevance (data that can be used for modeling purposes, computational models, and toxicity mechanisms), public databases, standardized vocabularies and modeling tools. All this material has been manually reviewed, systematically evaluated and grouped into different categories. The library has been made public at the eTOX website (http://www.etoxproject.eu/), where it is updated on a monthly basis, constituting a useful resource for affording the in silico toxicity prediction of novel drug candidates.
Rethinking Asset‐Based Community Development Strategies in Post‐Earthquake China: The Role of Social Capital
Authors: Lau Pui Yan Flora
Published: January 2013

To date, the discussion of asset‐based community development strategies has focused on the ways in which tangible assets contribute to the material aspects of life. This paper adopts a different perspective by concentrating on the role of intangible assets, that is, social capital, in community development. Via semi‐structured interviews with users of a resource center's services and leaders of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and a quasi‐governmental organization, the author explores the ways in which social capital helps community redevelopment (especially rehabilitation) in post‐earthquake China. The paper concludes that there is room for NGOs to adopt a bottom‐up approach to community development provided they maintain an apolitical and knowledge‐specific stance.
Inter‐State Variations in Economic Growth: How Much Governance Matters?
Authors: Ram K. , Kaur Simrit
Published: January 2013

Despite somewhat similar central allocation of funds, States in India have been achieving varying growth rates of Per Capita State Domestic Product (PC SDP). To analyze the extent to which this variation is on account of variation in governance levels, the paper constructs the Composite Quality of Governance Indices using six governance dimensions: namely, Administrative Effectiveness, Transparency Awareness and Control of Corruption, Fiscal Efficacy, Law and Order Situation, E‐Readiness Level, and Social Justice Index. Thereafter, panel regressions have been carried out to examine the extent to which governance matters in explaining inter‐State growth variation. In addition to the main explanatory variable, control variables such as Per Capita Public Expenditure (PCpe), Per Capita Consumer Expenditure, and State and time dummies have been included. Drawing upon data from 14 non‐special category Indian States over the period 2003–7, econometric results confirm that the quality of governance matters. Its coefficient is estimated to have a significant favorable impact on not just the level and growth of PC SDP. Further, output elasticity of governance has been estimated to be higher than that of public spending (PCpe). An important policy implication is that the States of India, while seeking additional funds from the Center, must also focus on improving governance to make more effective use of these funds.
Improved efficiency of blue phosphorescence organic light‐emitting diodes with irregular stepwise‐doping emitting layers
Authors: Liu Jun , Wang Jing , Huang Saijun , Chen Hsi‐An , He Gufeng
Published: January 2013

We demonstrate highly efficient blue phosphorescence organic light‐emitting diodes (PHOLED) with irregular stepwise‐doping emitting layers (EMLs). High efficiency is realized by inserting a high‐doping EML between two relatively low‐doping EMLs. Peak luminous efficiency and power efficiency of 19.2 cd A−1 and 18.0 lm W−1 are achieved, while those of a continuous stepwise‐doping device are 9.8 cd A−1 and 8.6 lm W−1. The dramatic efficiency enhancement is mainly attributed to the high hole–electron recombination probability and suppressed triplet excitons quenching by fine tuning the doping concentrations in the EMLs.
Surface reaction of 2‐propanol on modified Keggin type polyoxometalates: In situ IR spectroscopic investigation of the surface acid–base properties
Authors: Iwanowa Xenia , Strunk Jennifer , Löffler Elke , Muhler Martin , Merz Klaus
Published: January 2013

In order to investigate the influence of modified Keggin‐polyoxometalates and supported gold particles on reactivity and reaction pathways in thermal 2‐propanol oxidation, titanium‐substituted, insoluble Cs+‐salts of the Keggin‐heteropolytungstate (H3PW12O40) Cs3PW12O40 1, Cs5PW11TiO40 · nH2O 2, and supported gold composite Au/Cs5PW11TiO40 · nH2O 3 were synthesized and characterized as molecular model catalysts. The Ti‐substituted polyoxometalate 2 did not show any observable activity in the gas phase oxidation of 2‐propanol. The presence of gold nano‐particles activates the supporting polyoxometalate 3 and enhances formation of different oxidation products (acetone, diisopropyl ether) depending on the presence of different types of active sites. The formation of the diisopropyl ether involves two adjacent 2‐propanol molecules adsorbed on two different types of active sites, whereas the dehydrogenation reaction for the acetone formation involves the initial adsorption of 2‐propanol on one type of active site.
Influence of radiation damage on diffusion of fission products in silicon carbide
Authors: Friedland Erich , Hlatshwayo Thulani , van der Berg Nic
Published: January 2013

The influence of irradiation induced damage on the transport of implanted species in poly and single crystalline silicon carbide is investigated. For this purpose published diffusion results of strontium, silver, iodine and cesium are compared with the associated evolution of defect profiles determined by α‐particle channelling in a backscattering geometry. Strong diffusion takes place in the amorphized surface layer of room temperature implanted 6H‐SiC during annealing at 1100 °C, which drops below the detection limit of 10‐21 m2 s‐1 as soon as re‐crystallization is completed. Diffusion in samples implanted above the critical amorphization temperature is only observed when simultaneously a significant reduction of defect density occurs. No diffusion into the undamaged bulk is detected at temperatures up to 1500 °C. The observed diffusion behaviour is explained by a defect related trapping and release mechanism. Normal grain boundary diffusion of silver and iodine occurs in CVD‐SiC. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Thermodynamic analysis of InGaN‐HVPE growth using group‐III chlorides, bromides, and iodides
Authors: Hirasaki Takahide , Hanaoka Koshi , Murakami Hisashi , Kumagai Yoshinao , Koukitu Akinori
Published: January 2013

Thermodynamic analyses on hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) of InGaN using III‐chlorides, III‐bromides, and III‐iodides were performed to search a promising source material having a potential for controlling the solid composition with a high growth rate. In this analysis, various precursors such as InCl3, GaCl3,InBr3, GaBr3, InI3, and GaI3 were selected for comparison. Influence of input mole fraction of hydrogen (H2) in the carrier gas and input V/III ratio on the equilibrium partial pressures at InGaN deposition zone and the driving forces of InGaN deposition are shown. It was found that HVPE growth of InGaN using a combination of InCl3 and GaCl3 under a low input mole fraction of H2 and a high V/III ratio is essential for the control of solid composition and for high growth rate. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Coalescence growth of GaN crystals on point seed crystals using the Na flux method
Authors: Imanishi M. , Murakami K. , Imabayashi H. , Takazawa H. , Todoroki Y. , Matsuo D. , Maruyama M. , Imade M. , Yoshimura M. , Mori Y.
Published: January 2013

We have recently shown that dislocation‐free GaN crystals could be grown on a “GaN point seed” by the Na‐flux method. In order to grow larger‐diameter dislocation‐free GaN crystals, we have been trying to coalesce GaN crystals grown from many isolated point seeds. In this study, we found that two GaN crystals grown from two point seeds arranged along the a ‐direction coalesced without generating dislocations at the coalescence boundary. X‐ray rocking curve measurements showed that tilting and twisting of the c‐axis between two crystals around the coalescence boundary gradually diminished as the growth proceeded. Furthermore, three GaN crystals arranged in a triangular pattern could coalesce along the a ‐direction. These results indicate that coalescence growth may become a key technique for fabricating larger‐diameter dislocation‐free GaN crystals. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Capacitance‐voltage and admittance investigations of InGaN/GaN MQW LEDs: frequency dependence
Authors: Soltanovich Oleg , Yakimov Eugene
Published: January 2013

Capacitance‐frequency dependences for InGaN/GaN multiple‐quantum‐well light‐emitting structures grown by MOCVD are investigated at various temperatures and bias voltages. The charge relaxation in a quantum well is found to be satisfactorily described by two emission processes with different dependences of emission rate on temperature. It is shown that in typical InGaN/GaN lightemitting structures, one or a few quantum wells can be filled with electrons even for the relatively high reverse biases applied to the structure and contribute to the measured capacitance. This allows to explain the observed temperature and frequency dependences of apparent carrier concentration profiles obtained under capacitance–voltage profiling in these structures. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A framework for developing, implementing, and evaluating clinical prediction models in an individual participant data meta‐analysis
Authors: Debray Thomas P.A. , Moons Karel G.M. , Ahmed Ikhlaaq , Koffijberg Hendrik , Riley Richard David
Published: January 2013

The use of individual participant data (IPD) from multiple studies is an increasingly popular approach when developing a multivariable risk prediction model. Corresponding datasets, however, typically differ in important aspects, such as baseline risk. This has driven the adoption of meta‐analytical approaches for appropriately dealing with heterogeneity between study populations. Although these approaches provide an averaged prediction model across all studies, little guidance exists about how to apply or validate this model to new individuals or study populations outside the derivation data. We consider several approaches to develop a multivariable logistic regression model from an IPD meta‐analysis (IPD‐MA) with potential between‐study heterogeneity. We also propose strategies for choosing a valid model intercept for when the model is to be validated or applied to new individuals or study populations. These strategies can be implemented by the IPD‐MA developers or future model validators. Finally, we show how model generalizability can be evaluated when external validation data are lacking using internal–external cross‐validation and extend our framework to count and time‐to‐event data. In an empirical evaluation, our results show how stratified estimation allows study‐specific model intercepts, which can then inform the intercept to be used when applying the model in practice, even to a population not represented by included studies. In summary, our framework allows the development (through stratified estimation), implementation in new individuals (through focused intercept choice), and evaluation (through internal–external validation) of a single, integrated prediction model from an IPD‐MA in order to achieve improved model performance and generalizability. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fetal Membrane Cells for Treatment of Steroid-Refractory Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease
Authors: Ringdén Olle , Erkers Tom , Nava Silvia , Uzunel Mehmet , Iwarsson Erik , Conrad Réka , Westgren Magnus , Mattsson Jonas , Kaipe Helen
Published: January 2013

The placenta protects the fetus from the mother's immune system. We have previously found that fetal membrane cells (FMCs) isolated from term placenta prevent alloreactivity in vitro. FMCs share many features with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), which we previously introduced to treat severe acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Here, we tested FMCs for treatment of steroid-refractory acute GVHD. After two passages in culture, approximately 109 FMCs were obtained from one single placenta, although not all cells from passage 0 and passage 1 were used for expansion. The FMCs were positive for CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105, and CD49d but were negative for hematopoietic, endothelial, and epithelial markers. Microsatellite polymorphism analysis showed that FMCs were of maternal origin. All FMCs used showed normal karyotype. Nine patients who had undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and who had developed steroid-refractory grade III–IV acute GVHD were given 0.9–2.8 × 106 FMCs per kg at 15 infusions. Median age was 57 years. There was no toxicity from infusion of FMCs in eight patients. One patient had seizures after infusion. Two of eight evaluable patients had a complete response and four had a partial response, giving an overall response rate of 75%. Two patients showed no response at all. Three patients are alive from 6 to 21 months after HSCT. One patient is well and two have chronic GVHD. Thus, FMCs may be successfully used for immune modulation and tissue repair.
CD133 Is Essential for Glioblastoma Stem Cell Maintenance
Authors: Brescia Paola , Ortensi Barbara , Fornasari Lorenzo , Levi Daniel , Broggi Giovanni , Pelicci Giuliana
Published: January 2013

The role of the cell surface CD133 as a cancer stem cell marker in glioblastoma (GBM) has been widely investigated, since it identifies cells that are able to initiate neurosphere growth and form heterogeneous tumors when transplanted in immune-compromised mice. However, evidences of CD133-negative cells exhibiting similar properties have also been reported. Moreover, the functional role of CD133 in cancer stem/progenitor cells remains poorly understood. We studied the biological effects of CD133 downregulation in GBM patient-derived neurospheres. Our results indicate that there is not a hierarchical relation between CD133-positive and CD133-negative cells composing the neurospheres. Indeed, CD133 appears in an interconvertible state, changing its subcellular localization between the cytoplasm and the plasmamembrane of neurosphere cells. Silencing of CD133 in human GBM neurospheres using lentivirus-mediated short hairpin RNA impairs the self-renewal and tumorigenic capacity of neurosphere cells. These results imply that CD133 could be used as a therapeutic target in GBMs.
A Critical Role for Sox9 in Notch-Induced Astrogliogenesis and Stem Cell Maintenance
Authors: Martini Simone , Bernoth Kristina , Main Heather , Ortega German Dario Camargo , Lendahl Urban , Just Ursula , Schwanbeck Ralf
Published: January 2013

Notch signaling is a key regulator of cell-fate decisions and is essential for proper neuroectodermal development. There, it favors the formation of ectoderm, promotes maintenance of neural stem cells, inhibits differentiation into neurons, and commits neural progenitors to a glial fate. In this report, we explore downstream effects of Notch important for astroglial differentiation. Transient activation of Notch1 during early stages of neuroectodermal differentiation of embryonic stem cells resulted in an increase of neural stem cells, a reduction in neurons, an induction of astroglial cell differentiation, and an induction of neural crest (NC) development. Transient or continuous activation of Notch1 during neuroectodermal differentiation led to upregulation of Sox9 expression. Knockdown of the Notch1-induced Sox9 expression reversed Notch1-induced astroglial cell differentiation, increase in neural stem cells, and the decrease in neurons, whereas the Notch1 effects on NC development were hardly affected by knockdown of Sox9 expression. These findings reveal a critical role for Notch-mediated upregulation of Sox9 in a select set of neural lineage determination steps controlled by Notch.
A comparative study on vibration‐based condition monitoring algorithms for wind turbine drive trains
Authors: Siegel David , Zhao Wenyu , Lapira Edzel , AbuAli Mohamed , Lee Jay
Published: January 2013

The ability to detect and diagnose incipient gear and bearing degradation can offer substantial improvements in reliability and availability of the wind turbine asset. Considering the motivation for improved reliability of the wind turbine drive train, numerous research efforts have been conducted using a vast array of vibration‐based algorithms. Despite these efforts, the techniques are often evaluated on smaller‐scale test‐beds, and existing studies do not provide a detailed comparison between the various vibration‐based condition monitoring algorithms. This study evaluates a multitude of methods, including frequency domain and cepstrum analysis, time synchronous averaging narrowband and residual methods, bearing envelope analysis and spectral kurtosis‐based methods. A full‐scale baseline wind turbine drive train and a drive train with several gear and bearing failures are tested at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) dynamometer test cell during the NREL Gear Reliability Collaborative Round Robin study. A tabular set of results is presented to highlight the ability of each algorithm to accurately detect the bearing and gear wheel component health. The results highlight that the cepstrum and the narrowband phase modulation signal were effective methods for diagnosing gear tooth problems, whereas bearing envelope analysis could confidently detect most of the bearing‐related failures. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Marijuana Legalization: Lessons from the 2012 State Proposals
Authors: Caulkins Jonathan P. , Lee Michael A. C. , Kasunic Anna M.
Published: January 2013

On November 6, 2012, citizens in three U.S. states will vote on whether to legalize production, distribution, possession, and sale of marijuana for general—not just medical—use. Legalization is typically imagined as an up or down, binary choice. However, a comparison of 17 legalization proposals actively discussed in various U.S. states in 2012 reveals differences that would have important consequences for price, availability, arrest‐risk, use, and, hence, health. This paper divides the proposals into three broad categories and assesses their political feasibility. It then addresses the implications of state‐level legalization, and possible federal responses to it, for retail price, tax revenues, and spill‐over effects in other states where marijuana would remain illegal.
The Influence of the Perceptions of Environmental Factors on Self‐Reported Health Status Among Thais
Authors: Ruchiwit Manyat , Ruchiwit Kampol , Pawloski Lisa , Curtin Kevin M.
Published: January 2013

As a transitional country recently entering the Association of Southeast Asian Nation's (ASEAN) community, Thailand aims to improve its healthcare and health of its people. One means of better understanding the health status of a population is to examine how the overall health environment influences health status. For this study, we examine the impact of perceptions of the Thai health environment on the health status of Thai adults. Four hundred and two participants from three regions of Thailand were surveyed concerning sociodemographic variables, perceptions of health status, and perceptions of the internal and external health environment. The results revealed that those reporting their health status to be satisfactory believed that their living and working environment and availability of medical information and technology was good. In Thailand, the perception of having a good living and working environment as well as good medical information and innovative medical technology may have an important bearing on health status.
A Systematic Review of Outcomes of Revision Amputation Treatment for Fingertip Amputations
Authors: Wang Keming , Sears Erika Davis , Shauver Melissa J. , Chung Kevin C.
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review of outcomes of fingertip revision amputation for fingertip amputation injuries in the English-language literature to provide best evidence of functional outcomes.

Method

A MEDLINE literature search was performed to identify studies that met the following criteria: (1) reported primary data; (2) included at least five cases of primary revision amputation treatment following digit amputation injury; (3) reported finger or thumb amputation at or distal to the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint or interphalangeal (IP) joint, respectively; (4) presented at least one of the following outcomes: static two-point discrimination (2PD), cold intolerance, arc of motion (AOM) of metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints, proximal interphalangeal joints (PIP), DIP joints, or return-to-work time.

Results

Thirty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-seven studies reported 2PD, 20 studies reported cold intolerance, eight studies reported AOM, and 18 studies reported return-to-work time after revision amputation of fingertip injuries. The mean 2PD was 5.6 mm. On average, 24 % of patients experienced cold intolerance. AOM at the PIP joint was reported in four studies and averaged 94°. DIP joint AOM was presented in four studies and averaged 66°. Thumb MCP and IP joint AOM was presented in three and four studies, respectively. Mean thumb MCP joint AOM was 54° and that of the IP joint was 71°. The mean return-to-work time was 47 days.

Conclusions

On average, fingertip revision amputation can achieve almost normal sensibility and satisfactory motion and patients can expect to return to work on average approximately 7 weeks after surgery.
Validation of a UV Spectrophotometric Method for Determination of Proteolytic Activity of Enzymatic Detergents
Authors: Lopes Leonardo S. , Silva Filipe S. Q. , Silva Adriana S. , Delgado Isabella F.
Published: January 2013

Enzymatic detergents are widely used in health services. These products should be controlled to ensure their activity. In this paper, a UV spectrophotometric method for the determination of proteolytic activity in enzymatic detergents was validated. An artificial substrate (azocasein) was used to quantify the enzyme activity at 340 nm. The results showed that the method was satisfactory in respect to its specificity, linearity, precision, accuracy and robustness. This method fulfills both ICH's and Brazilian criteria, demonstrating its suitability for routine analysis as well as its potential application for regulatory purposes.
Stadt der kurzen Wege und der weiten Reisen
Authors: Holz-Rau Christian , Holz-Rau Christian , Sicks Kathrin
Published: January 2013

There is a bulk of research on spatial differences in travel behaviour, more specifically travel distances. This research suggests that the distances travelled by the population of small municipalities are longer than that by the population of larger cities. However, related studies focus mainly on daily travel. Long-distance trips are included as a minor aspect ‘on top’, if at all. Often they are deliberately excluded from analysis due to the focus on daily travel. On the other hand, long-distance travel accounts for a large fraction in total mileage due to the length of trips. In this paper we study travel distances in daily trips and long-distance trips, comparing municipality size categories. We also study the sum of annual travel distances on the individual level. We use descriptive statistics as well as Heckman models and OLS regressions, controlling for various sociodemographics. We find distances travelled for long-distance trips and daily trips to be affected by sociodemographics in much the same way, while spatial effects affect distances travelled for daily and long-distance trips in different directions. While daily travel distances are negatively associated with municipality size, it is the other way round for long-distance trips. As an outcome, the travel reduction effect of large cities is largely compensated for by long-distance trips.
A sharp lower bound for the first eigenvalue on Finsler manifolds
Authors: Wang Guofang , Xia Chao
Published: January 2013

In this paper, we give a sharp lower bound for the first (nonzero) Neumann eigenvalue of Finsler-Laplacian in Finsler manifolds in terms of diameter, dimension, weighted Ricci curvature.
The MANDATE model for evaluating interventions to reduce postpartum hemorrhage
Authors: McClure Elizabeth M. , Rouse Doris J. , MacGuire Emily R. , Jones Bonnie , Griffin Jennifer B. , Jobe Alan H. , Kamath‐Rayne Beena D. , Shaffer Craig , Goldenberg Robert L.
Published: January 2013

Objective

To create a comprehensive model of the comparative impact of various interventions on maternal, fetal, and neonatal (MFN) mortality.

Methods

The major conditions and sub‐conditions contributing to MFN mortality in low‐resource areas were identified, and the prevalence and case fatality rates documented. Available interventions were mapped to these conditions, and intervention coverage and efficacy were identified. Finally, a computer model developed by the Maternal and Neonatal Directed Assessment of Technology (MANDATE) initiative estimated the potential of current and new interventions to reduce mortality.

Results

For PPH, the sub‐causes, prevalence, and MFN case fatality rates were calculated. Available interventions were mapped to these sub‐causes. Most available interventions did not prevent or treat the overall condition of PPH, but rather sub‐conditions associated with hemorrhage and thus prevented only a fraction of the associated deaths.

Conclusion

The majority of current interventions address sub‐conditions that cause death, rather than the overall condition; thus, the potential number of lives saved is likely to be overestimated. Additionally, the location at which mother and infant receive care affects intervention effectiveness and, therefore, the potential to save lives. A comprehensive view of MFN conditions is needed to understand the impact of any potential intervention.
The importance of geopolitics in firms’ international location decisions: The Polish case
Authors: Teixeira Aurora A.C. , Dias Mariana
Published: January 2013

Despite connections and common traits between geopolitics and International Business based on geography and location, literature on this matter is scarce. This study aims to contribute to this literature gap, by assessing the importance of Poland’s geopolitical factors in FDI location decisions. By applying a hybrid methodology which combines qualitative and quantitative analyses we conclude that there is a connection between Poland’s geopolitical factors (stable, variable and interactional) and the volume, origin and distribution of the FDI received.
Is the USSR dead? Experience from the financial and economic crisis of 2008–2009
Authors: Golovnin Mikhail , Libman Alexander , Ushkalova Daria , Yakusheva Alexandra
Published: January 2013

The paper examines the economic linkages between the post-Soviet states from the point of view of the financial and economic crisis of 2008–2009. It aims to find out whether the interdependence between the countries of the former Soviet Union is still large enough that crises in individual countries affect the economic development in the neighboring states, and assesses the impact of the crisis itself on the linkages between the former Soviet republics. The evidence is mixed: while some channels of interdependence deteriorated over the last decade, others became more important, and some were even strengthened by the crisis itself.
Geometric Algebra for Physicists
Authors: Doran Chris , Lasenby Anthony
Published: January 2013

Geometric algebra is a powerful mathematical language with applications across a range of subjects in physics and engineering. This book is a complete guide to the current state of the subject with early chapters providing a self-contained introduction to geometric algebra. Topics covered include new techniques for handling rotations in arbitrary dimensions, and the links between rotations, bivectors and the structure of the Lie groups. Following chapters extend the concept of a complex analytic function theory to arbitrary dimensions, with applications in quantum theory and electromagnetism. Later chapters cover advanced topics such as non-Euclidean geometry, quantum entanglement, and gauge theories. Applications such as black holes and cosmic strings are also explored. It can be used as a graduate text for courses on the physical applications of geometric algebra and is also suitable for researchers working in the fields of relativity and quantum theory.
Comparative study of a new organic selenium source v. seleno-yeast and mineral selenium sources on muscle selenium enrichment and selenium digestibility in broiler chickens
Authors: Briens Mickaël , Mercier Yves , Rouffineau Friedrich , Vacchina Veronique , Geraert Pierre-André
Published: January 2013

Two experiments were conducted on broiler chickens to compare the effect of a new organic Se source, 2-hydroxy-4-methylselenobutanoic acid (HMSeBA; SO), with two practical Se additives, sodium selenite (SS) and Se yeast (SY). The relative bioavailability of the different Se sources was compared on muscle (pectoralis major) total Se, selenomethionine (SeMet) and selenocysteine (SeCys) concentrations and apparent digestibility of total Se (ADSe). In the first experiment, from day (d) 0 to d21, Se sources were tested at different supplied levels and compared with an unsupplemented diet (NC). No significant effects were observed on growth performance during the experimental period. However, the different Se sources and levels improved muscle Se concentration compared with the NC, with a significant source effect in the following order: SS < SY < SO (P< 0·05). Seleno-amino acids speciation results for NC, SY and SO at 0·3 mg Se/kg feed indicated that muscle Se was only present as SeMet or SeCys, showing a full conversion of Se by the bird. The second experiment (d0–d24) compared SS, SY or SO at 0·3 mg Se/kg feed. The ADSe measurements carried out between d20 and d23 were 24, 46 and 49 % for SS, SY and SO, respectively, with significant differences between the organic and mineral Se sources (P< 0·05). These results confirmed the higher bioavailability of organic Se sources compared with the mineral source and demonstrated a significantly better efficiency of HMSeBA compared with SY for muscle Se enrichment.
Impairment in instrumental activities of daily living with high cognitive demand is an early marker of mild cognitive impairment: the Sydney Memory and Ageing Study
Authors: Reppermund S. , Brodaty H. , Crawford J. D. , Kochan N. A. , Draper B. , Slavin M. J. , Trollor J. N. , Sachdev P. S.
Published: January 2013

Background

Criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) consider impairment in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) as exclusionary, but cross-sectional studies suggest that some high-level functional deficits are present in MCI. This longitudinal study examines informant-rated IADL in MCI, compared with cognitively normal (CN) older individuals, and explores whether functional abilities, particularly those with high cognitive demand, are predictors of MCI and dementia over a 2-year period in individuals who were CN at baseline.

Method

A sample of 602 non-demented community dwelling individuals (375 CN and 227 with MCI) aged 70–90 years underwent baseline and 24-month assessments that included cognitive and medical assessments and an interview with a knowledgeable informant on functional abilities with the Bayer Activities of Daily Living Scale.

Results

Significantly more deficits in informant-reported IADL with high cognitive demand were present in MCI compared with CN individuals at baseline and 2-year follow-up. Functional ability in CN individuals at baseline, particularly in activities with high cognitive demand, predicted MCI and dementia at follow-up. Difficulties with highly cognitively demanding activities specifically predicted amnestic MCI but not non-amnestic MCI whereas those with low cognitive demand did not predict MCI or dementia. Age, depressive symptoms, cardiovascular risk factors and the sex of the informant did not contribute to the prediction.

Conclusions

IADL are affected in individuals with MCI, and IADL with a high cognitive demand show impairment predating the diagnosis of MCI. Subtle cognitive impairment is therefore likely to be a major hidden burden in society.
Regional Organizations and International Politics: Japanese Influence over the Asian Development Bank and the UN Security Council
Authors: Lim Daniel Yew Mao , Vreeland James Raymond
Published: January 2013

Do regional hegemons use their power in regional organizations to advance foreign policy objectives? The authors investigate whether Japan leverages its privileged position at the Asian Development Bank (adb) to facilitate project loans for the elected Asian members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), a platform from which it seeks to shape global affairs. Analyzing panel data of adb loan disbursements to twenty-four developing member-countries from 1968 to 2009, the authors find that temporary UNSC membership increases adb loans, particularly during the post–1985 period, when Japan asserted greater influence in multilateral organizations. They estimate an average increase of over 30 percent. Because of Japan's checkered history of imperialism, the adb provides a convenient mechanism by which the government can obfuscate favors for politically important countries. Acting through this regional organization enables Japan to reconcile a low-key approach to foreign affairs with the contradictory goal of global activism–leading without appearing unilateralist.
In the name of meritocracy: managers' perceptions of policies and practices for training older workers
Authors: MARTIN GREGORY , DYMOCK DARRYL , BILLETT STEPHEN , JOHNSON GREER
Published: January 2013

Workplaces, managers and employers who are seeking to maintain the standing, capacities and productivity of their workplaces are now facing two crucial facts: (a) an ageing workforce and (b) all workers, regardless of age, need to adapt to the changing requirements for workplace performance. These facts mean that managers and supervisors need to confront issues found in the changing demographics of their own workforce. That is, as the portion of workforces aged over 45 years (i.e.older workers) increases, it is these workers who are available to be employed, and supported in sustaining their ongoing employability. To address these issues requires understanding of particular workers' capacities and aspirations and then acting to develop further their capacities based on new understanding, and rebutting social sentiments about these workers that are often value-laden, contradictory and biased. The case here is made through drawing on literature and analyses of interview data of Australian managers of older workers, that the current logic of management relies upon deeply held and widely shared beliefs of age-blind meritocracy and equal opportunity rather than informed views.
Regulating health claims on food labels using nutrient profiling: what will the proposed standard mean in the Australian supermarket?
Authors: Hughes Clare , Wellard Lyndal , Lin Jing , Suen Ka Lun , Chapman Kathy
Published: January 2013

Objective

Proposed Australian regulation of claims on food labels includes requirements for products carrying a health claim to meet nutrient profiling criteria. This would not apply to nutrition content claims. The present study investigated the number and healthiness of products carrying claims and the impact of the proposed regulation.

Design

Observational survey of claims on food packages across three categories: non-alcoholic beverages, breakfast cereals and cereal bars. Nutrient profiling was applied to products carrying claims to determine their eligibility to carry health claims under the proposed regulation.

Setting

Three large metropolitan stores from the three major supermarket chains in Sydney, Australia were surveyed in August 2011.

Subjects

All claims on 1028 products were recorded. Nutrition composition and ingredients were collected from the packaging, enabling nutrient profiling. The proportion of products in each category carrying claims and the proportion of these that did not meet the nutrient profiling criteria were calculated.

Results

Two-thirds of products in the three categories (ranging from 18 to 78 %) carried at least one claim. Of those carrying health claims, 31 % did not meet the nutrient profiling criteria. These would be ineligible to carry these claims under the proposed regulation. Additionally, 29 % of products carrying nutrition content claims did not meet the nutrient profiling criteria.

Conclusions

The number of products carrying nutrition content claims that did not meet the nutrient profiling criteria suggests that comprehensive regulation is warranted. Promotion of unhealthy foods using claims is potentially misleading for consumers and hinders their ability to select healthier foods. Implementation of the proposed regulation represents an improvement to current practice.
Microstructural and Chemical Characterization of Ordered Structure in Yttrium Doped Ceria
Authors: Yan Pengfei , Mori Toshiyuki , Wu Yuanyuan , Li Zhimin , Auchterlonie Graeme John , Zou Jin , Drennan John
Published: January 2013

The ordered structures in different doping levels (x = 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3) of yttrium doped ceria (YDC, Ce(1−x)YxO2−δ) electrolytes were investigated by electron diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning TEM, and electron energy loss spectroscopy. Oxygen vacancy ordering was experimentally confirmed within the ordered structures. With increasing the doping level, the concentration of trivalent Ce cations was increased in YDC samples and such trivalent Ce cations were supposed to mainly exist in the ordered structures. Based on our electron microscopic observation and microanalysis, a crystal model for the ordered structures is proposed.
Cognitive impairments from developmental exposure to serotonergic drugs: citalopram and MDMA
Authors: Schaefer Tori L. , Grace Curtis E. , Braun Amanda A. , Amos-Kroohs Robyn M. , Graham Devon L. , Skelton Matthew R. , Williams Michael T. , Vorhees Charles V.
Published: January 2013

We previously showed that developmental 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) treatment induces long-term spatial and egocentric learning and memory deficits and serotonin (5-HT) reductions. During brain development, 5-HT is a neurotrophic factor influencing neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, migration, and target field organization. MDMA (10 mg/kg × 4/d at 2 h intervals) given on post-natal day (PD) 11–20 in rats (a period of limbic system development that approximates human third trimester brain development) induces 50% reductions in 5-HT during treatment and 20% reductions when assessed as adults. To determine whether the 5-HT reduction is responsible for the cognitive deficits, we used citalopram (Cit) pretreatment to inhibit the effects of MDMA on 5-HT reuptake in a companion study. Cit attenuated MDMA-induced 5-HT reductions by 50% (Schaefer et al., 2012). Here we tested whether Cit (5 or 7.5 mg/kg × 2/d) pretreatment attenuates the cognitive effects of MDMA. Within each litter, different offspring were treated on PD11–20 with saline (Sal) + MDMA, Cit + MDMA, Cit + Sal or Sal + Sal. Neither spatial nor egocentric learning/memory was improved by Cit pretreatment. Unexpectedly, Cit + Sal (at both doses) produced spatial and egocentric learning deficits as severe as those caused by Sal + MDMA. These are the first data showing cognitive deficits resulting from developmental exposure to a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. These data indicate the need for further research on the long-term safety of antidepressants during pregnancy.