bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refixation of the supraspinatus tendon in a rat model—influence of continuous growth factor application on tendon structure
Authors: Buchmann Stefan , Sandmann Gunther H. , Walz Lars , Hoppe Henriette , Beitzel Knut , Wexel Gabriele , Tian Weiwei , Winter Gerhard , Imhoff Andreas B.
Published: August 2012

The purpose was to evaluate histological changes of the supraspinatus tendon (SSP) after refixation under continuous growth factor application over 20 days in comparison to the native healing process. In a chronic rat tendon tear model (15 rats/group), a transosseous SSP refixation was performed and growth factors (control, G‐CSF, b‐FGF, combination) were continuously released into the subacromial space by an osmotic pump. Tendon healing was evaluated histologically by a modified MOVIN‐Score, and Collagen I/III content was determined by immunohistology at 6 weeks. A modified MOVIN sum score showed significant lower counts for G‐CSF and b‐FGF in comparison to the control group (p = 0.050/p = 0.027) and the combined group (p = 0.050/p = 0.043). Collagen III was significantly reduced in the combined group compared to the control group (p = 0.028). Collagen I showed no significant differences. The Collagen I/III ratio was nearly doubled for b‐FGF and the combined group compared to the control. At the study endpoint, 33% of pump dislocations were detected. The continuous application of both isolated growth factors (G‐CSF/b‐FGF) achieved improved tendon‐remodeling. However, the continuous application via an osmotic pump showed a relative high dislocation rate when applied in the rat model. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 300–305, 2013
Process length variation of the cyst of the dinoflagellate Protoceratium reticulatum in the North Pacific and Baltic‐Skagerrak region: calibration as an annual density proxy and first evidence of pseudo‐cryptic speciation
Authors: Mertens Kenneth Neil , Bringué Manuel , Van Nieuwenhove Nicolas , Takano Yoshihito , Pospelova Vera , Rochon Andre , De Vernal Anne , Radi Taoufik , Dale Barrie , Patterson R. Timothy , Weckström Kaarina , Andrén Elinor , Louwye Stephen , Matsuoka Kazumi
Published: August 2012

Process length variation of cysts of the dinoflagellate Protoceratium reticulatum (Claparède et Lachmann) Bütschli in surface sediments from the North Pacific was investigated. The average process length showed a significant inverse relation to annual seawater density: σt annual = −0.8674 × average process length + 1029.3 (R2 = 0.84), with a standard error of 0.78 kg m−3. A sediment trap study from Effingham Inlet in British Columbia revealed the same relationship between average process length and local seawater density variations. In the Baltic–Skagerrak region, the average process length variation was related significantly to annual seawater density: σt annual = 3.5457 × average process length − 993.28 (R2 = 0.86), with a standard error of 3.09 kg m−3. These calibrations cannot be reconciled, which accentuates the regional character of the calibrations. This can be related to variations in molecular data (small subunit, long subunit and internal transcribed spacer sequences), which show the presence of several genotypes and the occurrence of pseudo‐cryptic speciation within this species. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Climatic variations in MIS 11 recorded by stable isotopes and trace elements in a French tufa (La Celle, Seine Valley)
Authors: Dabkowski Julie , Limondin‐Lozouet Nicole , Antoine Pierre , Andrews Julian , Marca‐Bell Alina , Robert Vincent
Published: August 2012

Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 11 palaeoclimate has so far been documented in marine and ice sheet isotopic records. However, excepting some lacustrine pollen records, very little is known about palaeoclimatic conditions in continental areas. This study uses geochemical records in calcareous tufa deposits from rivers as a basis for reconstructing temperate palaeoclimatic conditions. Tufa deposits are now proven to record high‐quality palaeoclimatic information in recent to Holocene deposits. Work on older interglacial tufas is just starting and in this paper we present the first comprehensive results from a MIS 11 tufa. The tufa comes from the Seine Valley (La Celle, northern France). Geochemical data in the tufa calcite are interpreted to record primarily air temperature (δ18O) and humidity (δ13C and Mg/Ca and Sr/Ca). The combined data identify a warm and wet climatic optimum followed by two temperature decreases associated with oscillations in humidity. These marked climatic variations recorded through the La Celle profile are strongly coherent with the palaeoenvironmental reconstructions from malacological data. The abrupt climatic and environmental events recorded could be related to short‐term degradation of vegetation cover in Europe, which is itself controlled by global palaeoclimatic events. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sensory quality and appropriateness of raw and boiled Jerusalem artichoke tubers (Helianthus tuberosus L.)
Authors: Bach Vibe , Kidmose Ulla , Thybo Anette K , Edelenbos Merete
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study was to investigate the sensory attributes, dry matter and sugar content of five varieties of Jerusalem artichoke tubers and their relation to the appropriateness of the tubers for raw and boiled preparation.

RESULTS: Sensory evaluation of raw and boiled Jerusalem artichoke tubers was performed by a trained sensory panel and a semi‐trained consumer panel of 49 participants, who also evaluated the appropriateness of the tubers for raw and boiled preparation. The appropriateness of raw Jerusalem artichoke tubers was related to Jerusalem artichoke flavour, green nut flavour, sweetness and colour intensity, whereas the appropriateness of boiled tubers was related to celeriac aroma, sweet aroma, sweetness and colour intensity. In both preparations the variety Dwarf stood out from the others by being the least appropriate tuber.

CONCLUSION: A few sensory attributes can be used as predictors of the appropriateness of Jerusalem artichoke tubers for raw and boiled consumption. Knowledge on the quality of raw and boiled Jerusalem artichoke tubers can be used to inform consumers on the right choice of raw material and thereby increase the consumption of the vegetable. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Simultaneous determination of triclosan, triclocarban, and transformation products of triclocarban in aqueous samples using solid‐phase micro‐extraction‐HPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Shen Jermiah Y. , Chang Matt S. , Yang Sheng‐Hsiung , Wu Gaston J.
Published: August 2012

The presence of triclosan and triclocarban, two endocrine‐disrupting chemicals and antimicrobial agents, and transformation products of triclocarban, 1,3‐di(phenyl)urea, 1,3‐bis(4‐chlorophenyl)urea and 1,3‐bis(3,4‐dichlorophenyl)urea, in tap water, treated household drinking water, bottled water, and river water samples were investigated using solid‐phase micro‐extraction coupled with‐HPLC‐MS/MS, a rapid, green, and sensitive method. Factors influencing the quantity of the analytes extracted onto the solid‐phase micro‐extraction fiber, such as addition of salt, sample pH, extraction time, desorption time, and sample volume, were optimized using solid‐phase micro‐extraction‐HPLC‐MS/MS. The results showed that the method gave satisfactory sensitivities and precisions for analyzing sub‐part‐per‐trillion levels of triclosan, triclocarban, and transformation products of triclocarban in samples collected locally. The recoveries of analytes ranged from 97 to 107% for deionized water samples, and 99 to 110% for river water samples, and limits of detection were in the range of 0.32–3.44 and 0.38–4.67 ng/L for deionized water and river water samples, respectively. On average, the daily consumption of triclosan and triclocarban by an adult by consuming 2 liters of different types of drinking water were estimated to be in the range of 6.13–425 ng/day as a result of the concentrations of triclosan and triclocarban measured in this study.
High Internal Phase Emulsion Templating – A Path To Hierarchically Porous Functional Polymers
Authors: Pulko Irena , Krajnc Peter
Published: August 2012

Recently, a series of new monomers and polymerization mechanisms has been applied to the templating of high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) providing a route to hierarchically porous materials with a range of functionalities and applications. The high degree of control over the pore size is another attractive feature of these materials. Usually, the continuous phase contains monomers, the droplet phase is used to template the large, primary pores, which are interconnected by secondary pores. The addition of nonpolymerizable components to the continuous phase can result in phase separation during polymerization and tertiary pores. Applications include polymer supports for catalysis and synthesis, separation and filtration, cell culture media, enzyme supports, and structural and isolation applications.
Inflammation‐mediated abrogation of androgen signaling: An in vitro model of prostate cell inflammation
Authors: Debelec‐Butuner Bilge , Alapinar Cansu , Varisli Lokman , Erbaykent‐Tepedelen Burcu , Hamid Syed Muhammad , Gonen‐Korkmaz Ceren , Korkmaz Kemal Sami
Published: August 2012

As a link between inflammation and cancer has been reported in many studies, we established an in vitro model of prostatic inflammation to investigate the loss of androgen receptor (AR)‐mediated signaling in androgen responsive prostate cell lines. First, the U937 monocyte cell line was differentiated into macrophages using phorbol acetate (PMA), and cells were induced with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for cytokine secretion. Next, the cytokine levels (TNFα, IL‐6, and IL1β) in conditioned media (CM) were analyzed. Prostate cells were then fed with CM containing varying concentrations of TNFα, and IkB degradation, nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) translocation and transactivation, and the expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐8 (MMP8) and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP9) were then assessed. As a result of CM treatment, ubiquitin‐mediated AR degradation, which was restored using anti‐TNFα antibody neutralization, led to both a decrease in KLK4, PSA, and NKX3.1 expression levels and the upregulation of GPX2. In addition to the loss of AR, acute and chronic CM exposure resulted in p53 degradation and consequent p21 downregulation, which was also restored by either androgen administration or ectopic NKX3.1 expression via the stabilization of MDM2 levels in LNCaP cells. Additionally, CM treatment enhanced H2AX(S139) phosphorylation (a hallmark of DNA damage) and genetic heterogeneity in the absence of androgens in prostate cells without activating mitochondrial apoptosis. Thus, the data suggest that inflammatory cytokine exposure results in the loss of AR and p53 signaling in prostate cells and facilitates genetic heterogeneity via ROS accumulation to promote prostate carcinogenesis. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Serine 727 phosphorylation of STAT3: An early change in mouse hepatocarcinogenesis induced by neonatal treatment with diethylnitrosamine
Authors: Miyakoshi Masaaki , Yamamoto Masahiro , Tanaka Hiroki , Ogawa Katsuhiro
Published: August 2012

STAT3 activation is involved in development and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We investigated STAT3 activation during hepatocarcinogenesis induced by neonatal diethylnitrosamine (DEN) treatment in mice. Nuclear accumulation and phosphorylation of STAT3 were detected in altered hepatocyte foci in the early stages as well as adenomas and HCCs in the late stages. Although total STAT3 levels were the same between the hepatic lesions and normal livers, S727‐phosphorylated STAT3 was enhanced in adenomas and HCCs, whereas Y705‐phosphorylated STAT3 was detected mainly in HCCs. In mouse HCC cell lines, although both S727 and Y705 remained un‐ or hypophosphorylated under serum‐free conditions, fetal bovine serum (FBS) induced strong S727/weak Y705 phosphorylation, STAT3 nuclear accumulation and cell proliferation, whereas IL‐6 treatment without FBS caused Y705 phosphorylation without S727 phosphorylation, STAT3 nuclear accumulation or cell proliferation. When HCCs were simultaneously treated with FBS/IL‐6, selective suppression of S727 phosphorylation by an MEK inhibitor prevented STAT3 nuclear accumulation and cell proliferation. Furthermore, an S727 phosphorylation‐deficient STAT3 mutant (S727A) had a diminished capacity to accumulate in the nucleus when compared with wild‐type (WT) or the phosphorylation‐mimic mutant (S727D) following treatment with FBS/IL‐6. After treatment with FBS/IL‐6, the cells expressing the S727A mutant proliferated more slowly than those expressing WT or S727D mutant. In contrast, suppression of Y705 phosphorylation by a JAK inhibitor in the FBS/IL‐6 treated cells did not affect STAT3 nuclear accumulation or cell proliferation. Taken together, these data demonstrate that STAT3 activation, mainly through S727 phosphorylation, contributes to the DEN‐induced hepatocarcinogenesis at the earliest stages. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nurse reported quality of care: A measure of hospital quality
Authors: McHugh Matthew D. , Stimpfel Amy Witkoski
Published: August 2012

As the primary providers of round‐the‐clock bedside care, nurses are well positioned to report on hospital quality of care. Researchers have not examined how nurses' reports of quality correspond with standard process or outcomes measures of quality. We assess the validity of evaluating hospital quality by aggregating hospital nurses' responses to a single item that asks them to report on quality of care. We found that a 10% increment in the proportion of nurses reporting excellent quality of care was associated with lower odds of mortality and failure to rescue; greater patient satisfaction; and higher composite process of care scores for acute myocardial infarction, pneumonia, and surgical patients. Nurse reported quality of care is a useful indicator of hospital performance. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 35:566–575, 2012
A Unique Case of Prone Position in the Primary Cremation Tomb 252 of Monte Sirai Necropolis (Carbonia, Sardinia, Italy)
Authors: Piga G. , Malgosa A. , Thompson T. J. U. , Guirguis M. , Enzo S.
Published: August 2012

A series of graves belonging to the Phoenician period were investigated after the campaign excavation of 2007 in the Phoenician‐Punic necropolis of Monte Sirai (Carbonia, Sardinia, Italy). One tomb in particular (labelled 252) is presented here because of its uniqueness. Tomb 252 contained the cremated remains of an individual, probably male, and comparison of the excavation records alongside reconstruction of the bone material itself makes clear that the individual was cremated in a prone position. It represents the first case of prone cremation reported in the literature.

To investigate whether the temperature of the cremation was homogenous across the entire body, we have conducted a combined physical–chemical analysis using X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intensifying Social Exchange Relationships in Public Organizations: Evidence from a Randomized Field Experiment
Authors: Jakobsen Morten , Andersen Simon Calmar
Published: August 2012

In accordance with social exchange theory, prominent streams of management research emphasize the importance of reciprocal exchange relationships between organizations and their employees. When employees perceive themselves as supported by the organization, they reciprocate with increased work motivation. However, we do not know how this knowledge can be developed into management initiatives that increase public employees’ perceived support, because severe endogeneity problems make it difficult to estimate the effect of organizational support on employee commitment outside the laboratory. We use a randomized field experiment involving more than 800 public employees to estimate the effect. We find no average effect of the organizational support treatment on the employees’ perceived organizational support. Yet, a subgroup analysis shows a positive treatment effect when the employees’ local front‐line managers felt less supported prior to the intervention. We discuss the implications for theory and management practice. ©2012 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Long‐term medical outcomes in survivors of extra‐ocular retinoblastoma: The Memorial Sloan‐Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) experience
Authors: Friedman Danielle Novetsky , Sklar Charles A. , Oeffinger Kevin C. , Kernan Nancy A. , Khakoo Yasmin , Marr Brian P. , Wolden Suzanne L. , Abramson David H. , Dunkel Ira J.
Published: August 2012

Background

Data on long‐term outcomes of survivors of extra‐ocular retinoblastoma are lacking. The authors sought to provide the first report characterizing long‐term outcomes among survivors of extra‐ocular retinoblastoma.

Procedure

Retrospective analysis of long‐term medical outcomes in 19 survivors of extra‐ocular retinoblastoma treated between 1992 and 2009. Severity of outcomes was graded using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events. All patients received intensive multimodality therapy for their extra‐ocular disease after management of their primary intra‐ocular disease, including conventional chemotherapy (n = 19, 100%), radiotherapy (n = 15, 69%), and/or high‐dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplant (n = 17, 89%).

Results

The median follow‐up was 7.8 years from diagnosis of extra‐ocular retinoblastoma (range 2–17.8 years). The most common long‐term non‐visual outcomes were hearing loss (n = 15, 79%), short stature (n = 7, 37%), and secondary malignancies [SMN] (n = 6, 31%). Sixty‐eight percent of survivors exhibited ≥2 non‐visual long‐term outcomes of any grade. Except short stature, which was not graded for severity, Grade 3–4 outcomes were limited to: ototoxicity (n = 8; n = 4 require hearing aids), SMNs (n = 6), and unequal limb length (n = 1). Five patients who developed SMNs carried a known RB1 mutation. SMNs developed at a median of 11.1 years after initial diagnosis; two patients died of their SMN. Long‐term cardiac, pulmonary, hepatobiliary, or renal conditions were not identified in any survivors.

Conclusion

Long‐term outcomes are commonly seen in extra‐ocular retinoblastoma survivors but the majority are mild‐moderate in their severity. Longer comprehensive follow‐up is needed to fully assess treatment‐related outcomes but the information collected to date may affect management decisions for children with extra‐ocular disease. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60: 694–699. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Upper thoracic shape in children with pectus excavatum: Impact on lung function
Authors: Redding Gregory J. , Kuo Wieying , Swanson Jonathan O. , Phillips Grace S. , Emerson Julia , Yung Delphine , Swanson Jordan W. , Sawin Robert S. , Avansino Jeffrey R.
Published: August 2012

Objective

Pectus excavatum (PE) can present with respiratory complaints in childhood. However severity of the PE, measured by the Pectus Severity Index (PSI), correlates only modestly with reduced vital capacity (VC). We hypothesized that another upper thoracic feature, a pectus gracilis (PG) or slender chest, co‐exists with PE, and impacts lung function.

Patients and Methods

We developed the Pectus Gracilis Index (PGI) based on the chest width to depth ratio at the gladiolar‐manubrial sternal junction on computerized tomographic (CT) scans, and measured PGI among 316 control children 10–20 years old. PG was defined by PGI values >2 z‐scores above the mean normal value. We determined the prevalence of PG in 97 children with PE and correlated PGI and PSI with VC among the 86 that performed spirometry.

Results

The mean and upper limit of normal for PGI averaged 2.73 and 3.55, respectively for control children. The prevalences of a PG among controls and children with PEs were 3.2% and 59%, respectively (OR = 45, P < 0.00001). Among the children with PEs, the PGI, and PSI correlated with one another (r = 0.77, P < 0.001). Both PSI and PGI significantly correlated inversely with VC. (r = −0.34, P < 0.001 and r = −0.38, P < 0.001, respectively). Importantly, PGI correlated with VC after adjusting for PSI among children with PE. (r = 0.20, P < 0.03).

Conclusion

The upper thoracic feature of a PG is common among children with PE and contributes to reductions in VC. Assessment of the thorax, using the PGI, may improve the structure‐function correlations previously described for children with PE. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:817–823. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anterior gradient 2 (AGR2): Blood‐based biomarker elevated in metastatic prostate cancer associated with the neuroendocrine phenotype
Authors: Kani Kian , Malihi Paymaneh D. , Jiang Yuqiu , Wang Haiying , Wang Yixin , Ruderman Daniel L. , Agus David B. , Mallick Parag , Gross Mitchell E.
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND

Anterior gradient 2 (AGR2) is associated with metastatic progression in prostate cancer cells as well as other normal and malignant tissues. We investigated AGR2 expression in patients with metastatic prostate cancer.

METHODS

Blood was collected from 44 patients with metastatic prostate cancer separated as: castration sensitive prostate cancer (CSPC, n = 5); castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC, n = 36); and neuroendocrine‐predominate CRPC defined by PSA ≤ 1 ng/ml in the presence of wide‐spread metastatic disease (NE‐CRPC, n = 3). AGR2 mRNA levels were measured with RT‐PCR in circulating tumor cell (CTC)‐enriched peripheral blood. Plasma AGR2 levels were determined via ELISA assay. AGR2 expression was modulated in prostate cancer cell lines using plasmid and viral vectors.

RESULTS

AGR2 mRNA levels are elevated in CTCs and strongly correlated with CTC enumeration. Plasma AGR2 levels are elevated in all sub‐groups. AGR2 levels vary independently to PSA and change in some patients in response to androgen‐directed and other therapies. Plasma AGR2 levels are highest in the NE‐CRPC sub‐group. A correlation between AGR2, chromagranin A (CGA), and neuron‐specific enolase (NSE) expression is demonstrated in prostate cancer cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that AGR2 expression is elevated at the mRNA and protein level in patients with metastatic prostate cancer. In particular, we find that AGR2 expression is associated features consistent with neuroendocrine, or anaplastic, prostate cancer, exemplified by an aggressive clinical phenotype without elevation in circulating PSA levels. Further studies are warranted to explore the mechanistic and prognostic implications of AGR2 expression in this patient population. Prostate 73: 306–315, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
PSMA‐targeted SPECT agents: Mode of binding effect on in vitro performance
Authors: Nedrow‐Byers Jessie R. , Moore Adam L. , Ganguly Tanushree , Hopkins Mark R. , Fulton Melody D. , Benny Paul D. , Berkman Clifford E.
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND

The enzyme‐biomarker prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is an active target for imaging and therapeutic applications for prostate cancer. The internalization of PSMA has been shown to vary with inhibitors' mode of binding: irreversible, slowly reversible, and reversible.

METHODS

In the present study, PSMA‐targeted clickable derivatives of an irreversible phosphoramidate inhibitor DBCO‐PEG4‐CTT‐54 (IC50 = 1.0 nM) and a slowly reversible phosphate inhibitor, DBCO‐PEG4‐CTT‐54.2 (IC50 = 6.6 nM) were clicked to 99mTc(CO)3‐DPA‐azide to assemble a PSMA‐targeted SPECT agent. The selectivity, percent uptake, and internalization of these PSMA‐targeted SPECT agents were evaluated in PSMA‐positive and PSMA‐negative cells.

RESULTS

In vitro studies demonstrated that PSMA‐targeted SPECT agents exhibited selective cellular uptake in the PSMA‐positive LNCaP cells compared to PSMA‐negative PC3 cells. More importantly, it was found that 99mTc(CO)3‐DPA‐DBCO‐PEG4‐CTT‐54 based on an irreversible PSMA inhibitor core, exhibited greater uptake and internalization than 99mTc(CO)3‐DPA‐DBCO‐PEG4‐CTT‐54.2 constructed from a slowly reversible PSMA inhibitor core.

CONCLUSIONS

We have demonstrated that a PSMA‐targeted SPECT agent can be assembled efficiently using copper‐less click chemistry. In addition, we demonstrated that mode of binding has an effect on internalization and percent uptake of PSMA‐targeted SPECT agents; with the irreversible targeting agent demonstrating superior uptake and internalization in PSMA+ cells. The approach demonstrated in this work now supports a modular approach for the assembly of PSMA‐targeted imaging and therapeutic agents. Prostate 73: 355–362, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Abdominal color of the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri, is associated with susceptibility to various insecticides
Authors: Tiwari Siddharth , Killiny Nabil , Mann Rajinder S , Wenninger Erik J , Stelinski Lukasz L
Published: August 2012

Background

Color morphs of an insect species are known to vary in activities of detoxifying enzymes and associated susceptibility to insecticides. In Diaphorina citri, three color morphs are known to occur. In the present study, susceptibility to four insecticides was compared among gray/brown, blue/green and orange/yellow color morphs of field‐collected D. citri.

Results

The orange/yellow morph was significantly more susceptible to fenpropathrin than the blue/green morph, and imidacloprid and chlorpyrifos caused higher mortality in the orange/yellow morph than in the blue/green and gray/brown morphs. To confirm the genetic basis of variable levels of susceptibility, the relative expression of five CYP4 genes was compared among the color morphs. CYP4C67 was expressed at significantly higher levels in the blue/green than in the orange/yellow and gray/brown morphs. CYP4DA1, CYP4C68, CYP4G70 and CYP4DB1 were expressed at significantly higher levels in the blue/green and gray/brown morphs than in the orange/yellow morph. Lower expression of CYP4 genes in the orange/yellow morph as compared with the others was correlated with reduced signal of 45 kD cytochrome P450 proteins, as determined by the western blot.

Conclusions

The results indicate differential susceptibility of D. citri color morphs to insecticides, which will need to be accounted for in future insecticide monitoring programs and may affect management programs.
Amorphous structures of Ge/Sb/Te alloys: Density functional simulations
Authors: Akola J. , Jones R. O.
Published: August 2012

Since their first development in the 1960s, phase change (PC) memory materials have become essential components of optical memories (DVD‐RW, Blu‐ray Disc, …) used in countless households worldwide. They are now poised to play a decisive role in future non‐volatile computer memories. PC memory materials are restricted to those with an extremely rapid and reversible transition between the amorphous and crystalline phases of an appropriate recording medium, and their development and optimization has been hindered by the inherent difficulties in determining amorphous structures. Alloys of germanium, antimony, and tellurium (“GST” alloys) are among the most widely used in the above contexts, and there has been much speculation concerning their amorphous structures. Theoreticians were slow to appreciate the rich array of problems awaiting their attention, but the past few years have seen a dramatic change in this situation. Density functional (DF) calculations, which are generally free of adjustable parameters, have now been reported on numerous systems. We review here the information that has resulted about the amorphous structures of GST‐alloys.
Practical work: Its effectiveness in primary and secondary schools in England
Authors: Abrahams Ian , Reiss Michael J.
Published: August 2012

We report here on the first of two evaluations of a national project (Getting Practical: Improving Practical Work in Science—IPWiS) designed to improve the effectiveness of practical work in both primary and secondary schools in England. This first baseline evaluation of the effectiveness of practical work is based on a study of a diverse range of 30 practical lessons undertaken in non‐selective primary (n = 10) and secondary (n = 20) schools prior to the teachers undertaking a training intervention designed to improve their effective use of practical work. A multi‐site case study approach employing a condensed fieldwork strategy was used in which data were collected, using audiotape‐recorded discussions, interviews, and observational field notes. The analysis, based on work by Millar et al. and Tiberghien, considers what students do and think relative to what their teacher intended them to do and think. In both primary and secondary schools, the widespread use of highly structured “recipe” style tasks meant that practical work was highly effective in enabling students (n = 857) to do what the teacher intended. Whilst tasks in primary schools tended to be shorter than in secondary schools, with more time devoted to helping students understand the meaning of new scientific words, neither primary nor secondary teachers' lesson plans incorporated explicit strategies to assist students in making links between their observations and scientific ideas. As such, tasks were less effective in enabling students to use the intended scientific ideas to understand their actions and reflect upon the data they collected. These findings suggest that practical work might be made more effective, in terms of developing students' conceptual understanding—an aim of the IPWiS project—if teachers adopted a more “hands‐on” and “minds‐on” approach and explicitly planned how students were to link these two essential components of practical work. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 49: 1035–1055, 2012
Higgs mass and vacuum stability in the Standard Model at NNLO
Authors: Degrassi Giuseppe , Di Vita Stefano , Elias-Miró Joan , Espinosa José R. , Giudice Gian F. , Isidori Gino , Strumia Alessandro
Published: August 2012

Abstract

We present the first complete next-to-next-to-leading order analysis of the Standard Model Higgs potential. We computed the two-loop QCD and Yukawa corrections to the relation between the Higgs quartic coupling (λ) and the Higgs mass (M

h
), reducing the theoretical uncertainty in the determination of the critical value of M

h
for vacuum stability to 1 GeV. While λ at the Planck scale is remarkably close to zero, absolute stability of the Higgs potential is excluded at 98 % C.L. for M

h
 
< 126 GeV. Possible consequences of the near vanishing of λ at the Planck scale, including speculations about the role of the Higgs field during inflation, are discussed.
Periampullary Diverticulum May Be an Important Factor for the Occurrence and Recurrence of Bile Duct Stones
Authors: Li Xun , Zhu Kexiang , Zhang Lei , Meng Wenbo , Zhou Wence , Zhu Xiangliang , Li Bo
Published: August 2012

Background

The aim of this study was to examine the relation between periampullary diverticula (PAD) and biliary tract stones.

Methods

A total of 732 cases of patients with PAD identified from among 6,221 patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography were compared to 750 controls (without PAD) in terms of biliary stone formation, incidence of sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD), and choledocholithiasis. The biliary tract diseases were diagnosed based on medical history, clinical symptoms and signs, and imaging findings using ultrasonography, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography.

Results

The PAD group contained a significantly larger number of patients with biliary stones including stones in the primary common bile duct, SOD with bile duct stones (p < 0.05), and choledocholithiasis after cholecystectomy (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

There is a close correlation between PAD and the formation of biliary tract stones. A particularly close correlation was found between PAD and choledocholithiasis after cholecystectomy. PAD may be an important risk factor for the occurrence or recurrence of biliary tract stones.
Biotic factor does not limit operational pH in packed-bed bioreactor for ferrous iron biooxidation
Authors: Mazuelos Alfonso , Moreno José María , Carranza Francisco , Palomino Carmen , Torres Antonio , Villalobo Eduardo
Published: August 2012

Ferrous ion biooxidation is a process with many promising industrial applications: mainly regeneration of ferric ion as an oxidizing reagent in bioleaching processes and depuration of acid mine drainage. The flooded packed-bed bioreactor (FPB) is the design that leads to the highest biooxidation rate. In this bioreactor, biomass is immobilized in a biofilm that consists of an inorganic matrix, formed by precipitated ferric compounds, in the pores of which cells are attached. This biofilm covers the surface of particles (siliceous stone) that form the bed. The chemical stability of this inorganic matrix defines the widest possible pH range in FPBs. At pH below 1, ferric matrix is dissolved and cells are washed out. At pH higher than 2, ferric ion precipitates massively, greatly hindering mass transfer to cells. Thus, among other parameters, pH is recognised as a key factor for operational control in FPBs. This paper aims to explain the effect of pH on FPB operation, with an emphasis on microbial population behaviour. FPBs seeded with mixed inocula were assayed in the pH range from 2.3 to 0.8 and the microbial population was characterised. The microbial consortium in the bioreactor is modified by pH; at pH above 1.3 Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans is the dominant microorganism, whereas at pH below 1.3 Leptospirillum ferrooxidans dominates. Inoculum can be adapted to acidity during continuous operation by progressively decreasing the pH of the inlet solution. Thus, in the pH range from 2.3 to 1, the biotic factor does not compromise the bioreactor performance.
Reset or rerun? Sources of discord in Russian–American relations
Authors: Nation R. Craig
Published: August 2012

Despite some notable accomplishments, the effort underway since 2008 to “reset” U.S.-Russian relations on a foundation of mutual interests is far from secure. In the past the Russian Federation and the U.S. have moved through a number of cycles where phases of rapprochement have given way to intensified strategic competition. This pattern could reproduce itself if a momentum of expanded cooperation is not sustained. Today, in critical areas such as democratization and respect for human rights, arms control, counter proliferation, energy security, and regional stability, conflict is becoming more pronounced. If the reset agenda is to lead forward to a more substantial redefinition of the U.S.-Russian relationship these underlying sources of conflict will need to be addressed. For the promise of rapprochement to be realized the U.S. and its allies must look beyond the limited goals of the reset as originally defined towards a strategy of more comprehensive engagement designed to bring Russia into the fold as a cooperative member of the Western security community.
Turbulent boundary layers at moderate Reynolds numbers: inflow length and tripping effects
Authors: Schlatter Philipp , Örlü Ramis
Published: August 2012

A recent assessment of available direct numerical simulation (DNS) data from turbulent boundary layer flows (Schlatter & Örlü,J. Fluid Mech., vol. 659, 2010, pp. 116–126) showed surprisingly large differences not only in the skin friction coefficient or shape factor, but also in their predictions of mean and fluctuation profiles far into the sublayer. While such differences are expected at very low Reynolds numbers and/or the immediate vicinity of the inflow or tripping region, it remains unclear whether inflow and tripping effects explain the differences observed even at moderate Reynolds numbers. This question is systematically addressed by re-simulating the DNS of a zero-pressure-gradient turbulent boundary layer flow by Schlatteret al. (Phys. Fluids, vol. 21, 2009, art. 051702). The previous DNS serves as the baseline simulation, and the new DNS with a range of physically different inflow conditions and tripping effects are carefully compared. The downstream evolution of integral quantities as well as mean and fluctuation profiles is analysed, and the results show that different inflow conditions and tripping effects do indeed explain most of the differences observed when comparing available DNS at low Reynolds number. It is further found that, if transition is initiated inside the boundary layer at a low enough Reynolds number (based on the momentum-loss thickness)${\mathit{Re}}_{\theta } \lt 300$, all quantities agree well for both inner and outer layer for${\mathit{Re}}_{\theta } \gt 2000$. This result gives a lower limit for meaningful comparisons between numerical and/or wind tunnel experiments, assuming that the flow was not severely over- or understimulated. It is further shown that even profiles of the wall-normal velocity fluctuations and Reynolds shear stress collapse for higher${\mathit{Re}}_{\theta } $irrespective of the upstream conditions. In addition, the overshoot in the total shear stress within the sublayer observed in the DNS of Wu & Moin (Phys. Fluids, vol. 22, 2010, art. 085105) has been identified as a feature of transitional boundary layers.
Foreword
Authors: Orr John Boyd
Published: August 2012

The last twenty years have witnessed great activity among investigators in the field of nutritional science. The new knowledge which has thus accrued is of vital human interest and concern. Different lines of study converge to show that a vast amount of ill-defined disease and poor health may be identified with latent phases of malnutrition, and that the effective performance of individuals and communities may be seriously limited on account of lowered resistance to disease, resulting from faulty diet.
The Story of the Institute. A Survey of Seven Years
Authors: Smith Edwin W.
Published: August 2012

The idea of founding the Institute crystallized at a meeting of missionaries, and others, which was held at High Leigh in September 1924. Dissatisfaction with the prevailing order of things occupied the minds of all who were faced with the burning problems in Africa at that time. They were not content to allow a negative policy of drift to continue. They realized that they were confronted with one of the major problems of our age. They saw the need for an application of scientific method to a solution of the questions arising generally from the contact of Western civilization with African culture and particularly from the attempt to educate Africans on modern lines. The rapid opening of Africa to all the influences of Europeanism, they were convinced, called for an advance in the education of the peoples of Africa through the medium of their own forms of thought. The linguistic question was seen to lie at the root of the problem. The more systematic study of African languages, of their relative importance and uses, of their orthography, was deemed to be urgently necessary if the progress of education was not to be retarded, or rendered impossible, through the prevailing confusion and lack of co-operation between governments, missionary societies, and scientific experts. Such were the ideas in the minds of those who took part in that meeting nine years ago and embodied in a memorandum which they drew up. These problems had already been raised in New York after the return of Dr. Jesse Jones and Dr. Aggrey from West Africa before the departure of the Phelps Stokes Education Commission to East Africa. It seemed to us at High Leigh that the time was ripe for the setting up of an organization to carry out these ideas. We thought then modestly of ‘A Bureau of African Languages and Literature’. Probably not one of us had a prevision of whereunto the thing would grow.
Dietary protein, blood pressure and renal function in renal transplant recipients
Authors: van den Berg Else , Engberink Mariëlle F. , Brink Elizabeth J. , van Baak Marleen A. , Gans Rijk O. B. , Navis Gerjan , Bakker Stephan J. L.
Published: August 2012

Hypertension is highly prevalent among renal transplant recipients (RTR) and a risk factor for graft failure and cardiovascular events. Protein intake has been claimed to affect blood pressure (BP) in the general population and may affect renal function. We examined the association of dietary protein with BP and renal function in RTR. We included 625 RTR (age 53 (sd13) years; 57 % male). Protein intake was assessed with a FFQ, differentiating between animal and plant protein. BP was measured according to a strict protocol. Creatinine clearance and albuminuria were measured as renal parameters. Protein intake was 83 (sd12) g/d, of which 63 % derived from animal sources. BP was 136 (sd17) mmHg systolic (SBP) and 83 (sd11) mmHg diastolic (DBP). Creatinine clearance was 66 (sd26) ml/min; albuminuria 41 (10–178) mg/24 h. An inverse, though statistically insignificant, association was found between the total protein intake and both SBP (β = − 2·22 mmHg persd,P= 0·07) and DBP (β = − 0·48 mmHg persd,P= 0·5). Protein intake was not associated with creatinine clearance. Although albuminuria was slightly higher in the highest tertile of animal protein intake compared with the lowest tertile (66v. 33 mg/d, respectively,P= 0·03), linear regression analyses did not reveal significant associations between dietary protein and albuminuria. Protein intake exceeded the current recommendations. Nevertheless, within the range of protein intake in our RTR population, we found no evidence for an association of dietary protein with BP and renal function. Intervention studies focusing on different protein types are warranted to clarify their effect on BP and renal function in RTR.
Genetic diversity assessment of extra-early maturing yellow maize inbreds and hybrid performance inStriga-infested andStriga-free environments
Authors: AKAOGU I. C. , BADU-APRAKU B. , ADETIMIRIN V. O. , VROH-BI I. , OYEKUNLE M. , AKINWALE R. O.
Published: August 2012

Maize (Zea maysL.), a major staple food crop in West and Central Africa (WCA), is adapted to all agro-ecologies in the sub-region. Its production in the sub-region is greatly constrained by infestation ofStriga hermonthica(Del.) Benth. The performance and stability of the extra-early maturing hybrids, which are particularly adapted to areas with short growing seasons, were assessed underStriga-infested andStriga-free conditions. A total of 120 extra-early hybrids and an open-pollinated variety (OPV) 2008 Syn EE-Y DT STR used as a control were evaluated at two locations each underStriga-infested (Mokwa and Abuja) andStriga-free (Ikenne and Mokwa) conditions in 2010/11. TheStriga-resistant hybrids were characterized by higher grain yield, shorter anthesis–silking interval (ASI), better ear aspect, higher numbers of ears per plant (EPP), lowerStrigadamage rating, and lower number of emergedStrigaplants at 8 and 10 weeks after planting (WAP) compared with the susceptible inbreds. UnderStrigainfestation, mean grain yield ranged from 0·71 to 3·18 t/ha and 1·19 to 3·94 t/ha underStriga-free conditions. The highest yielding hybrid, TZEEI 83×TZEEI 79, out-yielded the OPV control by 157% underStrigainfestation. The hybrids TZEEI 83×TZEEI 79 and TZEEI 67×TZEEI 63 were the highest yielding under bothStriga-infested andStriga-free conditions. The genotype main effect plus genotype×environment interaction (GGE) biplot analysis identified TZEEI 88×TZEEI 79 and TZEEI 81×TZEEI 95 as the ideal hybrids across research environments. Twenty-three pairs of simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were used to assess the genetic diversity among the inbred lines. The correlations between the SSR-based genetic distance (GD) estimates of parental lines and the means observed in F1hybrid underStrigainfestation and optimum growing conditions were not significant for grain yield and other traits except ASI under optimum conditions. Grain yield of inbreds was not significantly correlated with that of F1hybrids. However, a significant correlation existed between F1hybrid grain yield and heterosis underStrigainfestation (r=0·72,P<0·01). These hybrids have the potential for increasing maize production inStrigaendemic areas in WCA.
Outcomes of cochlear implantation in deaf children of deaf parents: comparative study
Authors: Hassanzadeh S
Published: August 2012

Objective:

This retrospective study compared the cochlear implantation outcomes of first- and second-generation deaf children.

Methods:

The study group consisted of seven deaf, cochlear-implanted children with deaf parents. An equal number of deaf children with normal-hearing parents were selected by matched sampling as a reference group. Participants were matched based on onset and severity of deafness, duration of deafness, age at cochlear implantation, duration of cochlear implantation, gender, and cochlear implant model. We used the Persian Auditory Perception Test for the Hearing Impaired, the Speech Intelligibility Rating scale, and the Sentence Imitation Test, in order to measure participants' speech perception, speech production and language development, respectively.

Results:

Both groups of children showed auditory and speech development. However, the second-generation deaf children (i.e. deaf children of deaf parents) exceeded the cochlear implantation performance of the deaf children with hearing parents.

Conclusion:

This study confirms that second-generation deaf children exceed deaf children of hearing parents in terms of cochlear implantation performance. Encouraging deaf children to communicate in sign language from a very early age, before cochlear implantation, appears to improve their ability to learn spoken language after cochlear implantation.
Balloon dilatation to treat plasmacytosis of the supraglottic larynx
Authors: Mistry S G , Watson G J , Rothera M P
Published: August 2012

Objective:

We discuss the use of balloon dilatation to relieve supraglottic stenosis caused by mucous membrane plasmacytosis.

Case report:

A 54-year-old man with a known diagnosis of mucous membrane plasmacytosis presented with dysphonia and worsening airway obstruction which required a tracheostomy. He underwent balloon dilatation of the supraglottic larynx using an angioplasty balloon within sequentially sized endotracheal tubes. This enabled successful decannulation, with minimal re-stenosis at eight-month follow up.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of supraglottic stenosis caused by plasmacytosis to be successfully treated using this method. We have shown that this minimally invasive technique deals effectively with a complex airway and minimises re-stenosis.
Optimal premium pricing policy in a competitive insurance market environment
Authors: Pantelous Athanasios A. , Passalidou Eudokia
Published: August 2012

In this paper, we propose a model for the optimal premium pricing policy of an insurance company into a competitive environment using Dynamic Programming into a stochastic, discrete-time framework when the company is expected to drop part of the market. In our approach, the volume of business which is related to the past year experience, the average premium of the market, the company's premium which is a control function and a linear stochastic disturbance, have been considered. Consequently, maximizing the total expected linear discounted utility of the wealth over a finite time horizon, the optimal premium strategy is defined analytically and endogenously. Finally, considering two different strategies for the average premium of the market, the optimal premium policy for a company with an expected decreasing volume of business is derived and fully investigated. The results of this paper are further evaluated by using data from the Greek Automobile Insurance Industry.