bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
China's land market auctions: evidence of corruption?
Authors: Cai Hongbin , Henderson J. Vernon , Zhang Qinghua
Published: December 2013

In China, urban land is allocated by leasehold sales by local officials. Attempting to end widespread corruption, the government now requires sales to be conducted publicly, by either English or “two‐stage” auctions. However, corruption persists through the choice of auction format and preauction side deals between favored bidders and local officials. Two‐stage auctions have a first stage where favored developers signal that auctions are “taken,” deterring entry of other bidders. Empirics show that both sales prices and competition are significantly less for two‐stage than English auctions. Selection on unobserved property characteristics is positive: officials divert hotter properties to two‐stage auctions.
Strategic information revelation when experts compete to influence
Authors: Bhattacharya Sourav , Mukherjee Arijit
Published: December 2013

We consider a persuasion game between a decision‐maker and a set of experts. Each expert is identified by two parameters: (i) “quality” or his likelihood of observing the state (i.e., learning what the best decision is) and (ii) “agenda” or the preferred decision that is independent of the state. An informed expert may feign ignorance but cannot misreport. We offer a general characterization of the equilibrium. From the decision‐maker's standpoint, (a) higher quality is not necessarily better, (b) extreme agendas are always preferred, and (c) the optimal panel may involve experts with identical (rather than conflicting) agendas.
Bad news does not always travel fast: evidence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings
Authors: Coelho Luís Miguel Serra
Published: December 2013

This paper examines the stock price performances of 275 non‐financial, non‐utility U.S. industrial firms that continue trading on the main exchanges after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy between 1 October 1979 and 17 October 2005. This paper identifies a negative and statistically significant post‐bankruptcy drift that lasts for at least 6 months. This finding adds to the literature showing that the market is unable to process bad public news events in a timely manner. Further analysis suggests that the theoretical model proposed by Hong and Stein (1999) can be used to help explain this market‐pricing anomaly.
Intra‐firm transfer of best practices in moral reasoning: a conceptual framework
Authors: Kulkarni Subodh , Ramamoorthy Nagarajan
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we develop a conceptual framework of the intra‐firm transfer of best practices in moral reasoning by integrating three streams of literature: internal knowledge transfer in strategic management, moral reasoning and epistemology in philosophy and business ethics, and leader–member exchange in human resource management. We propose that characteristics of moral reasoning (nature of moral knowledge, tacitness of moral reasoning and causal ambiguity), source characteristics (moral development of leaders), target characteristics (integrity capacity and moral development of subordinates), leader–member exchange and internal ethical climate influence the transfer of best practices in moral reasoning.
Mitochondrial function and energy metabolism in neuronal HT22 cells resistant to oxidative stress
Authors: Pfeiffer Annika , Jaeckel Martin , Lewerenz Jan , Noack Rebecca , Pouya Alireza , Schacht Teresa , Hoffmann Christina , Winter Jennifer , Schweiger Susann , Schäfer Michael K E , Methner Axel
Published: December 2013

Background and Purpose

The hippocampal cell line HT22 is an excellent model for studying the consequences of endogenous oxidative stress. Extracellular glutamate depletes cellular glutathione by blocking the glutamate/cystine antiporter system xc−. Glutathione depletion induces a well‐defined programme of cell death characterized by an increase in reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Experimental Approach

We compared the mitochondrial shape, the abundance of mitochondrial complexes and the mitochondrial respiration of HT22 cells, selected based on their resistance to glutamate, with those of the glutamate‐sensitive parental cell line.

Key Results

Glutamate‐resistant mitochondria were less fragmented and displayed seemingly contradictory features: mitochondrial calcium and superoxide were increased while high‐resolution respirometry suggested a reduction in mitochondrial respiration. This was interpreted as a reverse activity of the ATP synthase under oxidative stress, leading to hydrolysis of ATP to maintain or even elevate the mitochondrial membrane potential, suggesting these cells endure ineffective energy metabolism to protect their membrane potential. Glutamate‐resistant cells were also resistant to oligomycin, an inhibitor of the ATP synthase, but sensitive to deoxyglucose, an inhibitor of hexokinases. Exchanging glucose with galactose rendered resistant cells 1000‐fold more sensitive to oligomycin. These results, together with a strong increase in cytosolic hexokinase 1 and 2, a reduced lactate production and an increased activity of glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase, suggest that glutamate‐resistant HT22 cells shuttle most available glucose towards the hexose monophosphate shunt to increase glutathione recovery.

Conclusions and Implications

These results indicate that mitochondrial and metabolic adaptations play an important role in the resistance of cells to oxidative stress.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed issue on Mitochondrial Pharmacology: Energy, Injury & Beyond. To view the other articles in this issue visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐8
Effect of amphetamine on corrected‐QT interval change during methadone maintenance treatment in Taiwan: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Lin Ni‐Chi , Huang Chieh‐Liang , Chen Chung‐Ying , Lin Tsang‐Yaw , Wang Hsiu‐Yi , Lu Ye‐Hsu , Chen Lin‐Mei , Chen Vincent Chin‐Hung , Gossop Michael
Published: December 2013

Introduction and Aims

Previous studies have suggested that methadone is associated with prolonged corrected‐QT (QTc) interval, but published prospective research studies in this area are relatively scarce. This study investigates QTc interval change among methadone maintenance patients and possible associated risk factors. One of the aims is to explore the effect of amphetamines.

Design and Methods

This prospective cohort study with six‐month follow up assesses the effect of methadone on QTc interval among a sample (n = 170) of heroin users in a methadone maintenance treatment program in Taiwan. Demographic data, substance use history, medical history and laboratory studies were collected at study enrollment. Twelve‐lead electrocardiograms were performed for all participants both at study enrollment and six months later.

Results

The median daily methadone dose was 41 mg. A mean increase of QTc interval (17.1 ms, SD = 50.0, P < 0.001) was found at six‐month follow up. QTc interval prolongation in the sample at baseline was 2.9%, and at six months was 12.4%. A positive correlation was found between comorbid amphetamine use frequency in the past month and QTc interval change. Methadone dose was not associated with QTc change.

Discussion and Conclusions

An increase of mean QTc interval was found among methadone maintenance patients at six‐month follow up. Electrocardiogram monitoring should be performed among patients who are at risk of frequently using amphetamines during methadone maintenance treatment.
The analytical framework of water and armed conflict: a focus on the 2006 Summer War between Israel and Lebanon
Authors: Zeitoun Mark , Eid‐Sabbagh Karim , Loveless Jeremy
Published: December 2013

This paper develops an analytical framework to investigate the relationship between water and armed conflict, and applies it to the ‘Summer War’ of 2006 between Israel and Lebanon (Hezbollah). The framework broadens and deepens existing classifications by assessing the impact of acts of war as indiscriminate or targeted, and evaluating them in terms of international norms and law, in particular International Humanitarian Law (IHL). In the case at hand, the relationship is characterised by extensive damage in Lebanon to drinking water infrastructure and resources. This is seen as a clear violation of the letter and the spirit of IHL, while the partial destruction of more than 50 public water towers compromises water rights and national development goals. The absence of pre‐war environmental baselines makes it difficult to gauge the impact on water resources, suggesting a role for those with first‐hand knowledge of the hostilities to develop a more effective response before, during, and after armed conflict.
Ecology drives intragenomic conflict over menopause
Authors: Úbeda Francisco , Ohtsuki Hisashi , Gardner Andy
Published: December 2013

Menopause is the transition from reproductive to non‐reproductive life well before natural death. Rather than involving a smooth, rapid change, it is normally preceded by a long period of erratic hormonal fluctuation that is accompanied by a plethora of unpleasant symptoms. Here, we (1) suggest that this turbulent period owes to conflict, between a woman's maternally inherited (MI) and paternally inherited (PI) genes, over the trade‐off between reproduction and communal care; (2) perform a theoretical analysis to show that this conflict is resolved either through silencing or fluctuating expression of one of the genes; (3) highlight which of the symptoms preceding menopause may result from antagonistic co‐evolution of MI and PI genes; (4) argue that ecological differences between ancestral human populations may explain the variability in menopause among different ethnic groups; (5) discuss how these insights may be used to inform family planning and cancer risk assessment based on a woman's ancestral background.
Left ventricular systolic asynchrony: an important sign for cardiac involvement in plaque‐type psoriasis
Authors: Örem Cihan , Kazaz Zeynep , Yaylı Savaş , Çevik Osman Çağlar , Kırış Abdulkadir , Öztürk Mustafa , Arslan Bilgihan , Örem Asım
Published: December 2013

Psoriasis is associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between Left Ventricular (LV) asynchrony and psoriasis. Asynchrony was assessed in 31 patients with psoriasis without evidence of CVD and 25 healthy subjects. All the patients and controls were subjected to tissue synchronization imaging (TSI), and conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography. The time to regional peak systolic tissue velocity (Ts) in LV by the six‐basal‐six‐midsegmental model was measured on ejection phase TSI images, and four TSI parameters of systolic asynchrony were computed. C‐reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) levels in psoriatic patients were measured. All TSI parameters of LV asynchrony increased in psoriatic patients compared to the controls: the standard deviation (SD) of the 12 LV segments Ts (37.3 ± 14.8 vs. 24.6 ± 11.1, P = 0.002); the maximal difference in Ts between any two of the 12 LV segments (112.7 ± 39.8 vs. 83.1 ± 38.1, P = 0.01), the SD of the six basal LV segments (36.2 ± 17.3 vs. 23.2 ± 14.5, P = 0.008); and the maximal difference in Ts between any two of the six basal LV segments (91.3 ± 43.5 vs. 60.5 ± 37.3, P = 0.01). LV asynchrony was observed in 67.7% of psoriatic patients. Higher CRP (1.9 ± 1.3 vs. 0.92 ± 1.4, P = 0.04) and ESR (34.8 ± 17.3 vs. 20 ± 15.3, P = 0.03) levels were determined in patients with LV asynchrony. Regression analysis showed LV systolic asynchrony (P = 0.02), Tei index (P = 0.03), EF (P = 0.04), and E/A ratio (P = 0.04) were independently associated with psoriasis. LV asynchrony firstly described in patients with psoriasis may be an important finding of cardiac involvement in psoriasis.
Tinea versicolor in dark‐skinned individuals
Authors: Kallini Joseph R. , Riaz Fauzia , Khachemoune Amor
Published: December 2013

In this article, we review the salient features of tinea versicolor and describe the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and histopathology of this mycosis in dark‐skinned individuals. Tinea versicolor is caused by an overgrowth of the Malassezia genus. It manifests clinically as asymptomatic hypopigmented macules, hyperpigmented macules, or a combination of the two. Under light microscopy, Malassezia presents as a dimorphic fungus – in both the hyphal and yeast form. Most clinicians have found that the majority of dark‐skinned patients present solely with hypopigmented lesions. Under light microscopy, lesions on dark skin involved with tinea versicolor tend to have a thicker stratum corneum, more tonofilaments in the granulosum, and more sequestered melanosomes. Differential diagnosis includes confluent and reticulated papillomatosis, seborrheic dermatitis, pityriasis rosea, pityriasis alba, and vitiligo. Tinea versicolor can be successfully managed in most cases with topical antifungal treatments. Cases of recurrence, such as those seen in immunocompromised patients, may necessitate scheduled oral or topical therapy.
Perioperative corticosteroids administration as a risk factor for pressure ulcers in cardiovascular surgical patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Chen Hong‐Lin , Shen Wang‐Qin , Xu Yang‐Hui , Zhang Qun , Wu Juan
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between perioperative corticosteroids administration and the incidence of pressure ulcers (PUs) in cardiovascular surgical patients. A retrospective analysis was performed on data from consecutive patients who had cardiac surgery in 2012. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between perioperative corticosteroid administration and the incidence of surgery‐related PU (SRPU). A total of 286 cardiac surgery patients were included in this study; of these, 47 patients developed 57 SRPUs, an incidence of 16·4% [95% confidence interval (CI): 12·3–21·2%). The SRPU incidence was significantly higher in corticosteroid‐administered group compared with groups not receiving corticosteroids (43·8% versus 14·8%, Pearson's χ2 = 9·209, P = 0·002). The crude odds ratio (OR) was 4·472 (95% CI: 1·576–12·694). After performing multivariate logistic regression analysis, the adjusted OR was 2·808 (95% CI: 1·062–11·769). This result showed that perioperative corticosteroid administration was an independent risk factor for PUs in cardiovascular surgical patients. Therefore, it is recommended that in order to prevent PU perioperative corticosteroids should be administered with caution to cardiovascular surgical patients.
Obesity, diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis and chronic periodontitis: a shared pathology via oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction?
Authors: Bullon Pedro , Newman Hubert N. , Battino Maurizio
Published: December 2013

As many diseases have been shown to have several or indirect causes (i.e. are multifactorial) the question is what is the relative importance of each factor in a given disease? Also, what happens when some diseases, although apparently disparate, share causative factors and/or tissue pathologies? Host inflammation response mechanisms are largely shared by the body’s different tissues and systems and only recently has special attention been paid to the possible linkages among chronic periodontitis and other chronic systemic diseases. The aim of this review was to consider and discuss the mounting evidence that the basis for the inter‐relationships between chronic periodontitis and atheromatous disease and diabetes lie at a fundamental intracellular level, namely oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, as a meeting background among such chronic diseases and periodontitis.
Synthesis of Zeolite A from Aluminoborosilicate Glass Used in Glass Substrates of Liquid Crystal Display Panels and Evaluation of Its Cation Exchange Capacity
Authors: Tsujiguchi Masato , Kobashi Tadashi , Utsumi Yasuhiko , Kakimori Nobuaki , Nakahira Atsushi
Published: December 2013

Synthesis of zeolite A from aluminoborosilicate glass used in liquid crystal display (LCD) panel glass substrate was attempted. Mixture of aluminoborosilicate glass and sodium aluminate was hydrothermally treated with sodium hydroxide solution for 10.8–345.6 ks at 368–423 K. Aluminoborosilicate glass was also acid treated with nitric acid before hydrothermal treatment. Obtained samples were characterized by X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope observation. Zeolite A, hydroxysodalite, and zeolite P were synthesized, and with the specific conditions of hydrothermal treatment, a single phase of zeolite A was successfully obtained. Acid treatment was effective for synthesis of a single phase of zeolite A, because the components of aluminoborosilicate other than SiO2 preferentially eluted for acid solution and during following hydrothermal treatment SiO2 was supposed to elute for alkaline solution. Cation‐exchange capacities (CECs) were investigated for these products. It was clarified that CEC of the product with a single phase of zeolite A obtained from aluminoborosilicae glass was 4.2 mol/kg. CEC of the product consisted of zeolite A and hydroxysodalite was 3.9 mol/kg, and the one consisted of zeolite A, hydroxysodalite, and zeolite P was 2.6 mol/kg. This results shows that aluminoborosilicate glass could be expected to be recycled in zeolite A with good CEC by the appropriate process.
Quantitative Analysis on the Influence of SiO2 Content on the Phase Behavior of ZrO2
Authors: Vasanthavel Subramaniyan , Nandha Kumar Ponnusamy , Kannan Sanjeevi
Published: December 2013

The salient features of bioinert, chemical resistance, and high mechanical strength of synthetic ZrO2 and the bioactivity characteristics of SiO2 has been well‐known in biomedical applications. This study has been aimed at the synthesis and quantitative structural analysis of SiO2‐stabilized tetragonal ZrO2. The synthesis has been performed through sol–gel technique and the resultant characterization of the powders has been done through X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) techniques. Quantitative analysis on the ZrO2–SiO2 binary oxide systems has been performed by Rietveld Refinement using GSAS‐EXPUGI software package. The results from this study have confirmed that SiO2 concentration has played a major role in the stabilization of tetragonal ZrO2. Lower SiO2 concentration has resulted in the formation of mixture of any two different phases comprising of monoclinic ZrO2 (P21/c symmetry) or cubic ZrO2 (Fm‐3 m symmetry) or tetragonal ZrO2 (P42/nmc symmetry), whereas higher SiO2 concentration has resulted in the stabilization of single phase tetragonal ZrO2 (P42/nmc symmetry).
Do just‐world believers practice private charity?
Authors: Bègue Laurent
Published: December 2013

The relationship between belief in a just world and private charity was examined in a representative sample of 805 French people. Participants were given money for their participation to a survey research and had the opportunity to allocate a part of it to an organization supporting victims of aggression. A multiple regression analysis including a selection of relevant covariates indicated that just‐world beliefs provided a unique contribution to monetary generosity. The amount of money left for the organization supporting victims was higher among women, and was correlated with participant's age and educational level. This study contributes to the literature by providing for the first time a behavioral demonstration of the relationship between just‐world belief for self and altruistic behavior.
The use of sunscreen starting on the first day after ablative fractional skin resurfacing
Authors: Wanitphakdeedecha R. , Phuardchantuk R. , Manuskiatti W.
Published: December 2013

Background

The most common side‐effect of ablative fractional skin resurfacing in Asians is post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Various attempts have been made to reduce the occurrence of PIH after laser treatment including sun avoidance, the use of preoperative and postoperative treatment regimens, and treatment using conservative energy settings and epidermal protection.

Objectives

To determine whether the use of broad‐spectrum sunscreen with anti‐inflammatory agents starting on the first day after fractional CO2 laser skin resurfacing reduces the incidence of post laser PIH.

Materials and methods

Thirty patients were treated with ablative fractional CO2 resurfacing on both sides of their faces at 10 mJ and 10% density. Each subject was randomly treated on one side of the face with petrolatum ointment four times a day for the first week after laser treatment and on the other side of the face with petrolatum ointment four times a day plus broad‐spectrum sunscreen with anti‐inflammatory agents in the morning starting on the first day after laser treatment. Transepidermal water loss was recorded at baseline and every day for 1 week. Melanin and erythema indexes were measured at baseline, 1‐, 2‐week, 1‐, 2‐ and at 3‐month post treatment.

Results

Of the 30 patients involved in the study, 26 received the treatment and attended 1‐, 2‐week, 1‐, 2‐ and 3‐month post‐treatment visits. Four patients were withdrawn from the study because they could not attend every follow‐up visit. There was no statistically significant difference in transepidermal water loss at baseline, immediately after laser treatment, or at the D1 to D7 follow‐up visits. Erythema index had no significantly statistical difference at baseline, 1‐, 2‐ and at 3‐month after laser treatment. Furthermore, there was a statistically significant difference in melanin index at 1‐week post laser treatment between both sides (P = 0.001). Melanin index at the 1‐week follow‐up visit on the side treated with broad‐spectrum sunscreen with anti‐inflammatory agents starting on the first day after laser treatment was significantly less than the control side.

Conclusion

The use of broad‐spectrum sunscreen with anti‐inflammatory agents starting on the first day after ablative fractional skin resurfacing can decrease the incidence of PIH after laser treatment at 1‐week postoperatively.
Temporal links between pluton emplacement, garnet granulite metamorphism, partial melting and extensional collapse in the lower crust of a Cretaceous magmatic arc, Fiordland, New Zealand
Authors: Stowell H. , Parker K. Odom , Gatewood M. , Tulloch A. , Koenig A.
Published: December 2013

Garnet granulite facies mid‐to lower crust in Fiordland, New Zealand, provides evidence for pulsed intrusion and deformation occurring in the mid‐to lower crust of magmatic arcs. 238U‐206Pb zircon ages constrain emplacement of the ∼595 km2 Malaspina Pluton to 116–114 Ma. Nine Sm‐Nd garnet ages (multi‐point garnet‐rock isochrons) ranging from 115.6 ± 2.6 to 110.6 ± 2.0 Ma indicate that garnet granulite facies metamorphism was synchronous or near synchronous throughout the pluton. Hence, partial melting and garnet granulite facies metamorphism lasted <5 Ma and began within 5 Ma of pluton emplacement. Garnet granulite facies L‐S tectonites in the eastern part of the Malaspina Pluton record the onset of extensional strain and arc collapse. An Sm‐Nd garnet age and thermobarometric results for these rocks directly below the amphibolite facies Doubtful Sound shear zone provide the oldest known age for extension in Fiordland at ≥112.8 ± 2.2 Ma at ∼920 °C and 14–15 kbar. Narrow high Ca rims in garnet from some of these suprasolidus rocks could reflect a ≤ 1.5 kbar pressure increase, but may be largely a result of temperature decrease based on the Ca content of garnet predicted from pseudosections. At peak metamorphic conditions >900 °C, garnet contained ∼4000 ppm Ti; subsequently, rutile inclusions grew during declining temperature with limited pressure change. Garnet granulite metamorphism of the Malaspina Pluton is c. 10 Ma younger than similar metamorphism of the Pembroke Granulite in northern Fiordland; therefore, high‐P metamorphism and partial melting must have been diachronous for this >3000 km² area of mid‐to‐lower crust. Thus, two or more pulses of intrusion shortly followed by garnet granulite metamorphism and extensional strain occurred from north to south along the axis of the lower crustal root of the Cretaceous Gondwana arc.
Lactation Accommodation in the Workplace and Duration of Exclusive Breastfeeding
Authors: Bai Yeon , Wunderlich Shahla M.
Published: December 2013

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to assess current lactation accommodations in a workplace environment and to examine the association between the different dimensions of support and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding.

Methods

A survey was conducted with employees of a higher‐education institution and clients of an obstetric hospital in New Jersey. Factor analysis identified dimensions of workplace support. The dimensions were correlated with the duration of exclusive breastfeeding using Pearson's r correlation analysis.

Results

One hundred and thirteen working mothers participated in the study. The mean (SD) number of working hours of the participants was 34.3 (2.8) hours per week. Participants were primarily white (89.4%), older (mean age, 33.8 [6.0] years), highly educated (>82% above college graduate), and married (92%). Participants indicated that in their workplaces, breastfeeding was not common, breast pumps were not available, and on‐site day care was not always an option. The analysis identified 4 dimensions of breastfeeding accommodation: break time, workplace environment, technical support, and workplace policy. Technical support (r = 0.71, P = .01) and workplace environment (r = 0.26, P = .01) were significantly associated with the duration of exclusive breastfeeding.

Discussion

Employers can strengthen technical support and workplace environment to encourage breastfeeding continuation in working mothers. New federal laws should consider specific guidelines for minimum requirements for functional lactation support to achieve comprehensive breastfeeding benefits.
Test of long‐term uterine survival after allogeneic transplantation in rabbits
Authors: Saso Srdjan , Hurst Simon , Chatterjee Jayanta , Kuzmin Eugene , Thum Yau , David Anna L. , Hakim Nadey , Corless David J. , Boyd Michael , Noakes David E. , Lindsay Iain , Ghaem‐Maghami Sadaf , Del Priore Giuseppe , Smith J. Richard
Published: December 2013

Aim

To see if: (i) a large vessel aortocaval vascular patch technique may bring about long‐term graft survival after allogeneic uterine transplantation (UTn) in a rabbit model; and (ii) fertility can be achieved following natural mating post‐allogeneic UTn.

Methods

Allogeneic uterine cross transplantations were performed in New Zealand white rabbits using an aortocaval macrovascular patch harvested as part of the uterine allograft. Five rabbit recipients received a uterine graft from five unrelated donor rabbits. All female rabbits were unrelated and were of proven fertility with at least one previous litter each. Tacrolimus was administrated for immunosuppression post‐transplant. Natural mating was attempted if long‐term survival had been achieved. The main outcome measures were: (i) long‐term recipient survival; (ii) long‐term adequate uterine perfusion; and (iii) successful pregnancy post‐UTn.

Results

All five recipient animals survived the surgery with satisfactory immediate postoperative recovery. Recipients 1, 2 and 4 died within the first 4 postoperative days. Both long‐term survivors failed to conceive following introduction of a proven male breeder despite evidence of mating. Necropsy at 9 and 11 months showed a lack of patency of uterine cornua at the point of anastomosis, albeit a small uterus in recipient 3 and a reddish brown amorphous material at the site of the transplanted uterus in recipient 5.

Conclusion

We have demonstrated the feasibility of uterine allotransplantation using a macrovascular patch technique, but could not demonstrate conception because of blocked cornua. To address this, we propose using embryo transfer techniques in order to achieve conception.
“They Were Only Joking”: Efforts to Decrease LGBTQ Bullying and Harassment in Seattle Public Schools
Authors: Hillard Pamela , Love Lisa , Franks Heather M. , Laris B. A. , Coyle Karin K.
Published: December 2013

BACKGROUND

Seattle Public Schools has implemented policies and programs to increase safety, family involvement, and student achievement for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. This case study examines students' perceptions of bullying and harassment in the school environment, and teacher intervention when these problems arise in the presence of strong district policies and programs aimed at reducing LGBTQ bullying and harassment in schools.

METHODS

We surveyed students in Gay‐Straight Alliance (GSA) groups at 13 secondary schools (N = 107). We also conducted focus groups with GSA students and students not involved in the GSAs in 7 of 13 schools (N = 16 groups, including 154 students).

RESULTS

GSA students who were lesbian, gay, bisexual, or questioning (LGBQ) were significantly more likely than straight students to experience several types of harassment. On the basis of student report, the 2 most common intervention strategies by teachers for verbal harassment included stopping the harassment and explaining why it is wrong; teachers intervened in physical harassment by trying to stop the harassment. Students provided input on how to strengthen teacher interventions, including the need for more consistency in responding and following up. Students also noted a need for more focus on educating those who harass, rather than just asking them to stop.

CONCLUSIONS

Seattle Public Schools has made great strides in creating safe and welcoming schools for LGBTQ students, but still have to work further toward reaching this goal. Data from students on how they experience their school environment can help identify areas for improvement.
Citizenship and Voting: Experiences of Persons With Intellectual Disabilities in Sweden
Authors: Kjellberg Anette , Hemmingsson Helena
Published: December 2013

In Sweden, citizenship and participation in society have been emphasized as important for persons with intellectual disabilities for over four decades. The aim of the study was to describe, from a longitudinal perspective, how persons with intellectual disabilities experience citizenship and voting. The characteristics of becoming and being a voter were also identified. Thirteen women and seven men, aged 22–55 years on the first interview occasion in 1998, were interviewed three times more in regard to general elections in Sweden during the period 1998–2006. A constant comparative method was used in the data analysis. Two‐thirds of the participants voted in at least one of the three elections and a group of seven people did not vote at all. Age and significant persons were the most crucial factors for voting. The characteristics of a voter were having the idea and belief that one should vote as a citizen and having experience of voting so that one knew how to do it. In both these cases, significant persons and age were of importance. The authors suggest that the development of Swedish social policy may have influenced the voting behavior as people born during the 1940s and 1950s voted more often than people born during the 1960s and 1970s. Additionally, their social networks may enable persons with intellectual disabilities to make full use of their right to exercise political citizenship and to vote.
Testing the link between community structure and function for ectomycorrhizal fungi involved in a global tripartite symbiosis
Authors: Walker Jennifer K. M. , Cohen Hannah , Higgins Logan M. , Kennedy Peter G.
Published: December 2013

Alnus trees associate with ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi and nitrogen‐fixing Frankia bacteria and, although their ECM fungal communities are uncommonly host specific and species poor, it is unclear whether the functioning of Alnus ECM fungal symbionts differs from that of other ECM hosts.

We used exoenzyme root tip assays and molecular identification to test whether ECM fungi on Alnus rubra differed in their ability to access organic phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) when compared with ECM fungi on the non‐Frankia host Pseudotsuga menziesii.

At the community level, potential acid phosphatase (AP) activity of ECM fungal root tips from A. rubra was significantly higher than that from P. menziesii, whereas potential leucine aminopeptidase (LA) activity was significantly lower for A. rubra root tips at one of the two sites. At the individual species level, there was no clear relationship between ECM fungal relative root tip abundance and relative AP or LA enzyme activities on either host.

Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that ECM fungal communities associated with Alnus trees have enhanced organic P acquisition abilities relative to non‐Frankia ECM hosts. This shift, in combination with the chemical conditions present in Alnus forest soils, may drive the atypical structure of Alnus ECM fungal communities.
Gestational weight gain in relation to offspring obesity over the life course: a systematic review and bias‐adjusted meta‐analysis
Authors: Mamun A. A. , Mannan M. , Doi S. A. R.
Published: December 2013

Gestational weight gain (GWG) is considered one of the risk factors for future obesity in the offspring. However, the direction and strength of this association at different periods of offspring life is relatively unknown. This study investigates whether excess or inadequate maternal GWG during pregnancy influences the risk of offspring obesity at different stages in life. A systematic review of published articles was undertaken after a comprehensive search of different databases, and extracted data were meta‐analysed. To quantify offspring obesity estimates in relation to GWG, we stratified obesity estimates within three life stages of the offspring age: <5 years, 5 to <18 years and 18+ years. Our meta‐analysis showed that, compared with offspring of women with adequate GWG, offspring of women who gained inadequate gestational weight were at a decreased risk of obesity (relative risk [RR]: 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.78–0.94), and offspring of women who gained excess weight were at an increased risk of obesity (RR: 1.40; 95% CI: 1.23–1.59). These relationships were similar after stratification by life stage. Findings of this study therefore suggest that excess GWG does influence offspring obesity over the short‐ and long‐term, and should therefore be avoided.
Personality and Charismatic Leadership in Context: The Moderating Role of Situational Stress
Authors: Oreg Shaul , Berson Yair
Published: December 2013

We adopt an interactionist perspective and extend previous work on personality and charismatic leadership by considering the relationship between them across contexts. Based on Gray's reinforcement sensitivity theory, we expected the relationships between approach‐oriented dispositions and charisma to diminish under conditions of high workload‐induced stress. In a large‐scale lab study with 201 groups (Study 1,N= 721 participants), we manipulated conditions of stress and tested the interaction of stress with leaders’ extraversion and openness to experience in predicting their charismatic behaviors. We then tested, in a field study of 71 executives (Study 2,N= 256 participants), the interaction of employees’ reported stress with leaders’ stimulation values in predicting their charismatic behavior. In support of our hypotheses, the relationships between approach‐oriented dispositions and charisma were significantly weaker when stress was high. We discuss theoretical and practical implications of this finding, in particular given that it is in stressful conditions under which charismatic leadership is said to be most important.
Inflammatory and immune pathways in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease
Authors: Cekici Ali , Kantarci Alpdogan , Hasturk Hatice , Van Dyke Thomas E.
Published: December 2013

The pathogenesis of periodontitis involves a complex immune/inflammatory cascade that is initiated by the bacteria of the oral biofilm that forms naturally on the teeth. The susceptibility to periodontitis appears to be determined by the host response; specifically, the magnitude of the inflammatory response and the differential activation of immune pathways. The purpose of this review was to delineate our current knowledge of the host response in periodontitis. The role of innate immunity, the failure of acute inflammation to resolve (thus becoming chronic), the cytokine pathways that regulate the activation of acquired immunity and the cells and products of the immune system are considered. New information relating to regulation of both inflammation and the immune response will be reviewed in the context of susceptibility to, and perhaps control of, periodontitis.
Influence of sex steroids on inflammation and bone metabolism
Authors: Shiau Harlan J. , Aichelmann‐Reidy Mary E. , Reynolds Mark A.
Published: December 2013

Sex steroids are central to sexual development and reproduction, exerting pleiotropic effects on multiple tissues and organs throughout the lifespan of humans. Sex steroids are fundamental to skeletal development, bone homeostasis and immune function. The composite effect of sex‐specific genetic architecture and circulating levels of sex‐steroid hormones closely parallels differences in the immune response and may account for corresponding sex‐related differences in risk for chronic periodontitis, with men exhibiting greater susceptibility than women. Age‐associated reductions in sex steroids also provide insight into apparent temporal increases in susceptibility to periodontitis and alveolar bone loss, particularly among women. Chronic infection and inflammatory conditions, such as periodontal disease, provide a unique platform for exploring the interface of sex steroids, immunity and bone metabolism.
Down syndrome and neurofibromatosis: a case report
Authors: Schaffer Rebecca , Goss Lindsay , Romer Maureen Munnelly , Kalamchi Sabah
Published: December 2013

Background

The dental management of a patient presenting with both Down syndrome and neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) has not previously been described well in the dental literature.

Case Description

A 20‐year‐old male with both of these genetic anomalies sought comprehensive treatment at the Special Needs Dental clinic at the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health. He presented with multiple decayed surfaces, retained primary teeth, and intra/extra oral soft tissue tumors. Dental extractions and tumor reduction surgery took place at a private dental office due to the need for intravenous sedation for patient management. At the conclusion of the patient's ­treatment, while his oral health was improved, there was little improvement in the facial aesthetics of his case.

Clinical Implications

Coordinating care among health care providers in a patient with Trisomy 21 and NF1 is essential for a reliable and predictable outcome. However, as neurofibromas are often known to recur, the treatment risks and advantages should be reviewed prior to surgical intervention.
Greedy Institutions, Overwork, and Work‐Life Balance
Authors: Sullivan Teresa A.
Published: December 2013

Teresa Sullivan, President of the University of Virginia, offered her thoughts on “Greedy Institutions” and the work‐life balance in her AKD Distinguished Lecture at the August 2013 meeting of the American Sociological Association in New York City. We appreciate Dr. Sullivan's willingness to revise her address for publication in Sociological Inquiry. In the age of smart phones and 24/7 accountability, her thoughts on these issues—particularly at American universities—are timely and instructive.
Upstream and Midstream Compression Applications: Part 1—Applications
Authors: Kurz Rainer , Brun Klaus
Published: December 2013

The upstream and midstream sectors of the oil and gas business require compression for a number of distinctly different applications, such as transmission, storage, gas gathering, gas lift, gas export, gas injection, flash gas compression, and refrigeration. This paper explains the purpose of and requirements for these applications within the context of oil and gas production and the transport of natural gas to the consumer. Typical operating requirements for the gas compressors, and typical solutions to meet these requirements are introduced.
Condition Monitoring With Wind Turbine SCADA Data Using Neuro-Fuzzy Normal Behavior Models
Authors: Schlechtingen Meik , Santos Ilmar Ferreira
Published: December 2013

This paper presents the latest research results of a project that focuses on normal behavior models for condition monitoring of wind turbines and their components, via ordinary Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) data. In this machine learning approach Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Interference System (ANFIS) models are employed to learn the normal behavior in a training phase, where the component condition can be considered healthy. In the application phase the trained models are applied to predict the target signals, e.g. temperatures, pressures, currents, power output, etc.

The behavior of the prediction error is used as an indicator for normal and abnormal behavior, with respect to the learned behavior. The advantage of this approach is that the prediction error is widely decoupled from the typical fluctuations of the SCADA data caused by the different turbine operational modes.

To classify the component condition Fuzzy Interference System (FIS) structures are used. Based on rules that are established with the prediction error behavior during faults previously experienced and generic rules, the FIS outputs the component condition (green, yellow and red). Furthermore a first diagnosis of the root cause is given. In case of fault patterns earlier unseen the generic rules allow general statements about the signal behavior which highlight the anomaly.

Within the current research project this method is applied to 18 onshore turbines of the 2 MW class operating since April 2009. First results show that the proposed method is well suited to closely monitor a large variety of signals, identify anomalies and correctly classify the component condition. The accuracy of the normal behavior models developed is high and small signal behavior changes become recognizable. The result of the automatic analysis is given in graphical and text format. Within the paper examples of real faults are provided, showing the capabilities of the method proposed. The method can be applied both to existing and new built turbines without the need of any additional hardware installation or manufacturers input.
Application of Metallographic Evaluation for Repair of FSX 414: 1st Stage Nozzle Segments
Authors: Shejale Girish M.
Published: December 2013

The 1st stage nozzle segments experience damage such as creep, fatigue, high temperature corrosion and foreign object damage in service. Amongst the other gas turbine components the 1st stage nozzle segments needs to be refurbished or repaired after stipulated number of running hours. The decision on the extent of repairs for the 1st stage nozzle segments are based on incoming inspection observations. There are various stages of incoming inspection which includes visual, dimensional and non-destructive testing methods. Metallographic evaluation is one of the most important incoming inspection method based on which the extent or class of repairs can be decided.

The 1st stage nozzle segment material is FSX 414, which is a cobalt based alloy. It is critical to estimate the microstructural condition of the nozzle segments in the as received condition. As a part of incoming inspection sections at various locations are taken on the nozzle segments for metallographic evaluation. The microstructures are examined in the as received condition and after solution annealing heat treatment. Microstructural transformations and damages in terms of overheating, oxidation and hot corrosion can be identified at ease. The microstructural condition of the nozzle segments can thus be assessed after stipulated running hours. It is concluded that metallographic evaluation is effective in assessing the microstructural damage and proves to be vital in deciding the category of repairs. Typical microstructural evaluation case studies of 1st stage nozzle segments from Frame 5, 6001B and 7001EA gas turbine units are presented and discussed in this paper.
Effect of Cooling Flow on the Operation of a Hot Rotor-Gas Foil Bearing System
Authors: Ryu Keun , San Andrés Luis
Published: December 2013

Gas foil bearings (GFBs) operating at high temperature rely on thermal management procedures that supply needed cooling flow streams to keep the bearing and rotor from overheating. Poor thermal management not only makes systems inefficient and costly to operate but could also cause bearing seizure and premature system destruction. This paper presents comprehensive measurements of bearing temperatures and shaft dynamics conducted on a hollow rotor supported on two first generation GFBs. The hollow rotor (1.36 kg, 36.51 mm OD and 17.9 mm ID) is heated from inside to reach an outer surface temperature of 120°C. Experiments are conducted with rotor speeds to 30 krpm and with forced streams of air cooling the bearings and rotor. Air pressurization in an enclosure at the rotor mid span forces cooling air through the test GFBs. The cooling effect of the forced external flows is most distinct when the rotor is hottest and operating at the highest speed. The temperature drop per unit cooling flow rate significantly decreases as the cooling flow rate increases. Further measurements at thermal steady state conditions and at constant rotor speeds show that the cooling flows do not affect the amplitude and frequency contents of the rotor motions. Other tests while the rotor decelerates from 30 krpm to rest show that the test system (rigid-mode) critical speeds and modal damping ratio remain nearly invariant for operation with increasing rotor temperatures and with increasing cooling flow rates. Computational model predictions reproduce the test data with accuracy. The work adds to the body of knowledge on GFB performance and operation and provides empirically derived guidance for successful rotor-GFB system integration.
A Mobile Test Rig for Micro Gas Turbines Based on a Thermal Power Measurement Approach
Authors: aus der Wiesche Stefan
Published: December 2013

It is widely considered that micro gas turbines are potential devices for future energy needs. However, many micro gas turbine development projects have failed, particularly those with a very low power level below 10 kW. The financial and experimental capabilities for micro gas turbine development projects are typically extremely limited; hence there is a need for low cost mobile test rigs. To close this gap, a robust mobile test rig for turbo-shaft micro gas turbines was developed and validated. The shaft power can be determined using a thermal measurement approach. This circumvents any issues associated with high voltage and electric current levels. The shaft power can be obtained by a straightforward parameter identification procedure based on simple temperature measurements. This approach is feasible because an analytical expression for the transient temperature field can be obtained. The test rig and thermal power measurement concept were fully validated with a commercial micro gas turbine; good agreement was obtained between the experimental results and the theoretical process data.