bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE AMOUNT AND COMPOSITION OF A MINIMUM ESSENTIAL FRENCH READING VOCABULARY
Authors: Haygood James Douglas
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— This article discusses the establishment of a minimum vocabulary based on actual experimentation, which will enable a two‐year student to read with comprehension written French of average difficulty.
WILLIAM CULLEN BRYANT AND THÉOPHILE GAUTIER
Authors: Schick Joseph S.
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— This article discusses the French literary background of William Cullen Bryant, and points out that America's great Puritan poet was in some measure, at least, indebted to the eccentric Parnassian Gautier, thus forming an important link between the dying Romantic school of America and the new Parnassian school of France.
A MODERN TEST IN MODERN LITERATURE
Authors: Alpern Hymen
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— A discussion of the arguments for and against courses in contemporary foreign literature, with an account of a successful course in Contemporary Spanish Literature given by the writer at the College of the City of New York, followed by a copy of a final examination on the term's work.
SOME PRACTICAL PHONETIC SUGGESTIONS FOR THE TEACHERS OF ROMANCE LANGUAGES
Authors: Russell Harry J.
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— An “intelligible pronunciation” of either Spanish or French can be achieved by the average American student provided he be taught the vast phonetic differences existing between the native and the foreign tongue. Such physiological dissimilarities as muscular tension, movement between consonants and vowels, and vowel distortion cannot help but influence his pronunciation of the new language. This can be obviated, however, by careful analysis of the variations that occur.
LITERARY TRANSLATION1
Authors: Palfrey Thomas R.
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— Certain linguistic, disciplinary, and cultural values are derived from accurate, painstaking, and artistic translation from modern foreign languages. Training in such translation offers many practical advantages, and may be used effectively as a class exercise in a variety of courses.
SOME TRICKS OF THE TRADE
Authors: Gullette Cameron C.
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— Methods of creating the surprise element which will help to keep students alert throughout the class hour.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE USE OF “HORSE SENSE” IN LANGUAGE TEACHING
Authors: Williams Ronald B.
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— It is a question whether “horse sense,” as discussed in a recent article by F. E. Hawkins, will lead all teachers along the same paths. Some of the suggestions made there and certain classroom procedures at direct variance with them may be said by different persons to be based upon good sense. While the present confusion lasts among the theorists and experts, we shall be compelled to solve many of our own problems, but the solutions will tend to vary with each teacher and almost with each student.
METHOD IN LANGUAGE TEACHING AS A FUNCTION OF TIME*
Authors: Morgan Bayard Q.
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— An attempt to show how our teaching time is spent, and how it may be utilized by the language teacher so as to secure not only immediate results but future benefits as well.
THE USE OF ACHIEVEMENT TESTS IN SECTIONING STUDENTS
Authors: Seibert Louise C. , Goddard Eunice R.
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— Objective achievement tests given at Goucher College over a period of three years have been found to be reliable, to have a high correlation with the marks given at the end of the semester, and to have as good predicting value as the semester marks.
THE TREATMENT OF VOCABULARIES IN TEXTBOOKS
Authors: Porterfield Allen W.
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— Each teacher has his own ideas about vocabularies. On the basis of simple logic not all can be right. Full and complete vocabularies have no place in texts beyond the first year. Attempts to corral practical, working vocabularies of a definite number of words held to be an objective of dubious merit.
A FLEXIBLE FOREIGN LANGUAGE COURSE
Authors: Warshaw J.
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— Foreign language curricula are rigid in structure and limited in scope. An elastic course, involving little or no expense, is recommended as an addition to the curriculum. This course would supplement or complement the fixed curriculum, replace some of the smaller courses, and round out the student's language training. It could be utilized in universities, colleges, and high schools.
Selecting a Basic Textbook
Authors: McElroy Howard C.
Published: October 2011

Author's Summary.— The need for more scientific standards in selecting textbooks, and a suggested score card.
What Shall Constitute the Modern German Program of the Secondary School?
Authors: White Emilie Margaret
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— Because of its present status the German field offers unusual opportunities for scientific experimentation. Objective tests play a versatile rôle. A few practical suggestions with regard to content, method and sources of supplementary material.
A More Objective Method of Scoring Compositions
Authors: Seibert Louise C. , Goddard Eunice R.
Published: October 2011

As a test of the ability to write a foreign language, the retelling of an anecdote has many advantages over the description of a picture; the scoring of such compositions on the basis of the density of mistakes per 100 words correlates very highly with the best subjective method of scoring and has in addition the advantage of being objective
The Radio as a Medium of Modern Foreign Language Instruction*
Authors: Engel E. F.
Published: October 2011

Historical outline of the development of radio as an agency in the general field of education and discussion of its special adaptability for the broadcasting of foreign languages
The German‐American Progressive
Authors: Porterfield Allen W.
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— The extreme difficulty inherent in the ambitious attempt to become bilingual is clearly revealed in the casual inability of even cultured German‐Americans to acquire idiomatic control of the English “progressive” present tense: e.g., “This is good coffee; I am liking it”, for “I like it.”
The Prose Laboratory and Special German Sections at Carleton College
Authors: Blayney Lindsey
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— Discouraging features of composition work—pleasant translation versus composition drudgery—the prestige of language departments involved—prose composition by homeopathic method—the prose laboratory as a solution of some of the difficulties—encouraging results of experiments for a period of three years.)
A Non‐College Course in French
Authors: Menhinick Mildred
Published: October 2011

Author's Summary.— An account of an experiment with a group of seriously underprivileged and poorly adjusted children. With much patience, flexibility, and a broad cultural background on the teacher's part, a great deal of French material of permanent value can be taught to such a group in spite of serious handicaps arising from poor language ability and lack of cultural and intellectual background
Rules of Grammar in Beginners German Books
Authors: Hess John A.
Published: October 2011

Two rules of German grammar that were given more accurate formulation in earlier issues of the Modern Language Journal are discussed and attention is called to their slight effect upon subsequent beginners' books. Other grammatical topics requiring more careful statement are also suggested
Instruction in Foreign Languages
Authors: Arnold Agnes Nelson
Published: October 2011

Author's Summary— For a concise and clear idea of the nature and effect of the Modern Foreign Language Study the writer recommends Monograph 24 of the National Survey of Education, by Helen M. Eddy. The most far‐reaching benefit of the Study has been the adoption of a scientific method for investigation, experimentation, and solution of instructional problems in foreign languages.
Concerning Foreign Language Teachers
Authors: Ernst Carola Léonie
Published: October 2011

Author's Summary— A plea in favor of superior modern foreign language teaching, by men and women of wide culture who know the psychology of their audience and have thoroughly mastered both the English tongue and the foreign language they propose to impart.
Delight, and More, in Singing*
Authors: Weymouth Burdette Earlton
Published: October 2011

A brief summary of practical outcomes evolving from the use of song in modern language teaching. For the teacher who labors imaginatively, song presents a splendid opportunity to influence attitudes, habits, interests, and appreciations, to develop knowledge, and to encourage certain skills and self‐initiated activities.)
Jardin d'Enfants
Authors: Stouse Mildred Renshaw
Published: October 2011

Author's Summary— A few lesson plans for Kindergarten French with an introductory note on problems met by a French teacher in a pre‐school and her own experiences in trying to solve them.
What Shall the Aims of Foreign Language Teaching Be in the Light of Recent Experience?*
Authors: Huebener Theodore
Published: October 2011

Author's summary.— In view of the unselected student‐body and the limited time, the high school foreign language course could not successfully pursue the “conversational aim.” The school is primarily an educational institution and not a training camp. Only a broad cultural aim, with adequate provision for oral practice for the gifted, is valid.
Broken Boundaries or Broken Marriages? Racial Intermarriage and Divorce in the United States
Authors: Fu Vincent Kang , Wolfinger Nicholas H.
Published: October 2011

Objective

Several recent studies have investigated the consequences of racial intermarriage for marital stability. None of these studies properly control for first‐order racial differences in divorce risk, therefore failing to appropriately identify the effect of intermarriage. Our article builds on an earlier generation of studies to develop a model that appropriately identifies the consequences of crossing racial boundaries in matrimony.

Methods

We analyze the 1995 and 2002 National Survey of Family Growth using a parametric event‐history model called a sickle model. To appropriately identify the effect of interracial marriage we use the interaction of wife's race and husband's race.

Results

We find elevated divorce rates for Latino/white intermarriages but not for black/white intermarriages. Seventy‐two percent of endogamous Latino marriages remain intact at 15 years, but only 58 percent of Latino husband/white wife and 64 percent of white husband/Latina wife marriages are still intact.

Conclusions

We have identified an important deficiency in previous studies and provide a straightforward resolution. Although higher rates of Latino/white intermarriage may indicate more porous group boundaries, the greater instability of these marriages suggests that these boundaries remain resilient.
The Effects of General and Specific Human Capital on Long–Term Growth and Failure of Newly Founded Businesses
Authors: Rauch Andreas , Rijsdijk Serge A.
Published: October 2011

The model developed in this paper draws on human capital theory to explain how newly founded business ventures achieve long–term growth and reduce their chances of failure. Using a sample of 201 business start–ups and assessing growth and venture failure over a period of 12 years, we found that general and specific human capital lead to growth and failure in different ways. More specifically, we found that the effect of general human capital on failure was mediated by growth. Unexpectedly, specific human capital was not related to growth and had direct negative effects on business failure.
When Contingency is a Resource: Educating Entrepreneurs in the Balkans, the Bronx, and Beyond
Authors: Harmeling Susan S. , Sarasvathy Saras D.
Published: October 2011

The research project described in this paper began as an inductive field study of entrepreneurship education in two very different settings—a university in war–torn Eastern Croatia and an entrepreneurship program in inner–city high schools in the United States. It evolved into a study of the two unlikely entrepreneurs who founded these education initiatives. Through a detailed counterfactual analysis of the narratives on the programs’ founding and evolution, we offer compelling evidence for the role of contingency in the entrepreneurial process. We present an inductive conceptual framework of responses to contingency based on entrepreneurs’ beliefs about agency and environment and conclude with implications of this research for entrepreneurship education.
Happy and Proactive? The Role of Hedonic and Eudaimonic Well–Being in Business Owners’ Personal Initiative
Authors: Hahn Verena C. , Frese Michael , Binnewies Carmen , Schmitt Antje
Published: October 2011

This two–year study with 122 business owners examined the link between affective well–being and task–oriented as well as relationship–oriented personal initiative (PI). We tested two complementary models explaining the link between well–being and PI: (1) broaden–and–build theory and (2) self–regulation as limited resource approach. In line with current research on well–being, we differentiated between hedonic and eudaimonic well–being using life satisfaction and vigor as indicators. Hierarchical regression analyses showed that only vigor predicted both forms of PI. Our results support the self–regulation approach and indicate that eudaimonic well–being is the relevant affective well–being dimension for proactive behavior.
(1 − x)Ba(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3–x(Ba0.7Ca0.3)TiO3 Ferroelectric Thin Films Prepared from Chemical Solutions
Authors: Kang Guangqing , Yao Kui , Wang John
Published: October 2011

Using chemical solution approach on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates (1 − x)Ba(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3–x(Ba0.7Ca0.3)TiO3 (BZT–BCT) ferroelectric thin films were prepared for the first time. Dense and crack‐free films with perovskite structure were obtained from appropriately produced precursor solution through a multiple spin‐coating process in which the individual layers were pyrolyzed at different temperatures. The effects of composition and annealing temperature on the resulting structure and properties were examined. The optimized BZT–BCT thin film exhibited a high dielectric constant of 2913 with a low dielectric loss of 0.06, and a high remnant polarization of 15.8 μC/cm2 with a large coercive field of 58 kV/cm, and an effective piezoelectric coefficient d33 of 71.7 pm/V under the substrate clamping. These properties are discussed in comparison with the bulk ceramic counterpart, and the results showed that the polarization rotation and strain were restricted to a large extent in the thin films.
Mechanical Characterization of ZrB2–SiC Composites with Varying SiC Particle Sizes
Authors: Watts Jeremy , Hilmas Greg , Fahrenholtz William G.
Published: October 2011

Flexural strength, elastic modulus, and hardness were used to characterize the mechanical properties of ZrB2–SiC composites that contained varying SiC particle sizes. Dense ZrB2–SiC composites consisting of 70 vol% ZrB2 and 30 vol% α‐SiC were produced via hot pressing. This series of composites had maximum SiC particle sizes that ranged from 4.4 to 18 μm. The mechanical properties scaled with the maximum SiC particle size, not with ZrB2 grain size. Flexural strength decreased as the maximum size of SiC particles increased from 1150 MPa at 4.4 μm to 245 MPa at 18 μm with an abrupt decrease in strength at ~11.5 μm. Elastic modulus remained constant at ~530 GPa for compositions containing SiC particles smaller than 11.5 μm, but exhibited a decrease with larger SiC particle sizes. Vickers and Knoop hardness were 21.4 and 17.2 GPa, respectively, for ceramics with SiC particle sizes <11.5 μm, but hardness decreased for larger SiC particle sizes. The decreases in strength, elastic modulus, and hardness with SiC particles larger than 11.5 μm were coincident with stress‐induced microcracking in the composites.
High Q Microwave Dielectric Ceramics in the Li2(Zn1−xAx)Ti3O8 (A = Mg, Co; x = 0.02–0.1) System
Authors: Huang Cheng‐Liang , Su Chia‐Hui , Chang Chung‐Min
Published: October 2011

Using a conventional solid‐state reaction, followed by sintering at 1080°C–1200°C Li2(Zn1−xAx)Ti3O8 (A = Mg, Co and x = 0.02–0.1) ceramic system with >96% density were prepared. The XRD patterns of the sintered samples revealed single‐phase formation with a cubic crystal symmetry. The molecular volume shows good linear relationship with x value. The microwave dielectric properties of Li2(Zn1−xAx)Ti3O8 ceramics exhibited a significant dependence on the x value and to some extent on the morphology of the specimens. The Li2(Zn0.94Mg0.06)Ti3O8 ceramics possess εr = 26.1, Q × f = 150 000 GHz, and τf = −13.9 ppm/°C, and Li2(Zn0.92Co0.08)Ti3O8 ceramics show εr = 24.7, Q × f = 140 000 GHz, and τf = −13.4 ppm/°C, respectively. It indicates a substantial increase in the Q × f in comparison with that of pure Li2ZnTi3O8. The microwave dielectric properties of these partially substituted ceramics are reported for the first time.
High Temperature Mechanical Properties of Dense AlN–SiC Ceramics Fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering Without Sintering Additives
Authors: Kobayashi Ryota , Tatami Junichi , Wei Chen I. , Wakihara Toru , Komeya Katsutoshi , Meguro Takeshi , Goto Takashi , Tu Rong
Published: October 2011

Dense AlN–SiC solid solution ceramics with 25–75 mol% AlN were fabricated by spark plasma sintering using hexagonal SiC and AlN powders without additives. The bending strength reaches 800 MPa at room temperature with a fracture toughness of about 5 MPa·m1/2. The high bending strength can be retained at high temperatures, maintaining over 400 MPa at 1700°C.
Highly Porous Biphasic Calcium Phosphate (BCP) Ceramics with Large Interconnected Pores by Freezing Vigorously Foamed BCP Suspensions under Reduced Pressure
Authors: Ahn Min‐Kyung , Shin Kwan‐Ha , Moon Young‐Wook , Koh Young‐Hag , Choi Won‐Young , Kim Hyoun‐Ee
Published: October 2011

This article proposes a new way of producing highly porous biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) ceramics with large interconnected pores by freezing a vigorously foamed BCP suspension under reduced pressure, which allows the air bubbles incorporated into the BCP suspension to expand extensively. All the fabricated samples produced with various degrees of expansion of the BCP suspension (0, 150, 200, and 250 vol%) showed a highly uniform porous structure with their unique microporous BCP walls. The sizes of the pores and interconnections between the pores increased remarkably from 74 ± 21 μm to 295 ± 93 μm and 22 ± 8 μm to 123 ± 60 μm, respectively, with increasing degree of expansion from 0 to 250 vol%. However, the compressive strength decreased from 1.2 ± 0.29 MPa to 0.4 ± 0.07 MPa with increasing degree of expansion from 150 to 250 vol%.
ZnAl2O4 and (0.79)ZnAl2O4–(0.21)Mn2TiO4 Microwave Dielectric Ceramics Prepared by Hot Pressing and Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Lorite Israel , Rodriguez Miguel Angel , Azough Feridoon , Freer Robert , Fernandez Jose Francisco
Published: October 2011

Ceramics of ZnAl2O4 (ZA) and 0.79ZnAl2O4–0.21Mn2TiO4 (ZAMT) were prepared by the mixed oxide route using hot pressing and spark plasma sintering (SPS) techniques. Sintering temperatures were 1300°C in all cases; hot‐pressed samples were held at peak temperature for 1 h, the SPS samples for 5 min. Sintered densities were at least 98% theoretical for the SPS samples. ZnAl2O4 prepared by SPS was single phase; all other samples contained minor amounts of second phase. Grain sizes for ZnAl2O4 were typically 200–500 nm, but 2–5 μm for ZAMT. FTIR spectra for all the samples include Al–O bend mode band at ~450 cm−1. The microwave dielectric properties of the ZA‐SPS (εr = 8.7; Qxf = 57 000 GHz) were comparable with conventionally produced samples; the dielectric properties of the ZAMT‐SPS (εr = 9.6; Qxf = 30 630 GHz) were superior to conventionally produced ceramics. The SPS approach yielded high density, high quality dielectric ceramics at lower sintering temperatures and much reduced processing times.
Children's Preference for Television Programs: Long‐Tail Evidence1
Authors: D'ALESSIO MARIA , LAGHI FIORENZO , BAIOCCO ROBERTO , RAFFONE ANTONINO
Published: October 2011

It has been hypothesized recently that many social phenomena and consumer choices are characterized by a long‐tail distribution. We investigated the preferences of 4‐ to 8‐year‐old children in the domain of television programs, and found a long‐tail distribution of children's preference, characterized by Zipf's law. We also found a high awareness of parents about the preferences of their children, even about those that they judged negatively. Our findings might have useful implications for the study of consumers' behavior and for research on complex interactions between psychological and socioeconomic factors.
Supportive periodontal therapy and dental implants: an analysis of patients’ compliance
Authors: Cardaropoli Daniele , Gaveglio Lorena
Published: October 2011

Objectives

The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the compliance to supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) in a population of adult periodontal patients, and to determine the impact of clinical procedures performed such as the type of active periodontal therapy and the insertion of dental implants.

Material and methods

Ninety‐six patients were evaluated. The subjects were divided into two groups, according to the active periodontal procedure (surgical/non‐surgical), and were also classified as having or not‐having osseointegrated implants. The number of visits for SPT after the end of active therapy was evaluated, and subjects were classified as compliant or non‐compliant.

Results

At the end of a 5‐year evaluation, 77.1% of patients completely complied with SPT while 22.9% of patients had insufficient compliance degree. No significant difference was found in compliance between subjects that had surgical or non‐surgical periodontal treatment. However, patients that had the insertion of one or more dental implant registered a significant higher degree of compliance than patients that had no fixtures insertion.

Conclusion

The results suggest that it is possible to have excellent degree of patients’ compliance for SPT. The performance of periodontal surgical therapy itself is not a reason able to motivate the patients to maintenance care, while the insertion of osseointegrated implants seems to be a reliable reason to positively affect the compliance with SPT.
Alveolar process preservation at implants installed immediately into extraction sockets using deproteinized bovine bone mineral – an experimental study in dogs
Authors: Caneva Marco , Botticelli Daniele , Morelli Fabrizio , Cesaretti Gianfranco , Beolchini Marco , Lang Niklaus P.
Published: October 2011

Aim

To evaluate the soft tissue and the dimensional changes of the alveolar bony crest at sites where deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) particles, concomitantly with the placement of a collagen membrane, were used at implants installed into sockets immediately after tooth extraction.

Material and methods

The pulp tissue of the mesial roots of 3P3 was removed in six Labrador dogs, and the root canals were filled. Flaps were elevated bilaterally, the premolars hemi‐sectioned, and the distal roots removed. Recipient sites were prepared in the distal alveolus, and implants were placed. At the test sites, DBBM particles were placed in the residual marginal defects concomitantly with the placement of a collagen membrane. No treatment augmentation was performed at the control sites. A non‐submerged healing was allowed. Impressions were obtained at baseline and at the time of sacrifice performed 4 months after surgery. The cast models obtained were analyzed using an optical system to evaluate dimensional variations. Block sections of the implant sites were obtained for histological processing and soft tissue assessments.

Results

After 4 months of healing, no differences in soft tissue dimensions were found between the test and control sites based on the histological assessments. The location of the soft tissue at the buccal aspect was, however, more coronal at the test compared with the control sites (1.8 ± 0.8 and 0.9 ± 0.8 mm, respectively). At the three‐dimensional evaluation, the margin of the soft tissues at the buccal aspect appeared to be located more apically and lingually. The vertical dislocation was 1 ± 0.6 and 2.7 ± 0.5 mm at the test and control sites, respectively. The area of the buccal shrinkage of the alveolar crest was significantly smaller at the test sites (5.9 ± 2.4 mm2) compared with the control sites (11.5 ± 1.7 mm2).

Conclusion

The use of DBBM particles concomitantly with the application of a collagen membrane used at implants placed into sockets immediately after tooth extraction contributed to the preservation of the alveolar process.
LTβR and CD40: working together in dendritic cells to optimize immune responses
Authors: Gommerman Jennifer L. , Summers deLuca Leslie
Published: October 2011

Summary:  Generating an immune response tailored to destroy an infecting organism while limiting bystander damage involves guiding T‐cell activation using a variety of cues taken from the immunogen (antigen type, dose, and persistence, accompanying danger signals) as well as the host (tissue environment, T‐cell frequency, and affinity for antigen). Dendritic cells (DCs) serve as translators of much of this information and are critically required for effective pathogen and tumor clearance. Moreover, dysregulation of DC activation can lead to autoimmunity. Inhibition of the lymphotoxin (LT) and CD40 pathways has been shown to be effective at quieting inflammation in settings where DC–T‐cell interactions are key instigators of disease progression. In this review, we compare and contrast the CD40 and LT pathways in the context of receptor/ligand expression, signal transduction, and DC biology. We provide evidence that these two pathways play complementary roles in DC cytokine secretion, thus indirectly shaping the nature of the CD8+ T‐cell response to foreign antigen. Given the distinct role of these pathways in the context of DC function, we propose that dual therapies targeted at both the CD40 and LTβ receptor may have therapeutic potential in silencing DC‐driven autoimmunity or in promoting tumor clearance.
TNF and ubiquitin at the crossroads of gene activation, cell death, inflammation, and cancer
Authors: Walczak Henning
Published: October 2011

Summary:  Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is crucial for innate immunity, but deregulated TNF signaling also plays an eminent role in the pathogenesis of many chronic inflammatory diseases and cancer‐related inflammation. The signals that mediate both the beneficial and the harmful effects of TNF are initiated when TNF binds to its receptors on the surface of target cells. TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) is ubiquitously expressed, whereas TNFR2 is mainly expressed on lymphocytes and endothelial cells. This review focuses on the molecular and physiological consequences of the interaction of TNF with TNFR1. The different outcomes of TNF signaling originate at the apical signaling complex that forms when TNF binds to TNFR1, the TNFR1 signaling complex (TNF‐RSC). By integrating recently gained insight on the functional importance of the presence of different types of ubiquitination in the TNF‐RSC, including linear ubiquitin linkages generated by the linear ubiquitin chain assembly complex (LUBAC), with the equally recent elucidation of the mode in which ubiquitin‐binding domains interact with specific di‐ubiquitin linkages, this review develops a new concept for the way the concerted action of different ubiquitination events enables the TNF‐RSC to generate its signaling output in a spatio‐temporally controlled manner. Finally, it will be explained how these new findings and the emerging concept of differential ubiquitination governing the TNF‐RSC may impact future research on the molecular mechanism of TNF signaling and the function of this cytokine in normal physiology, chronic inflammation, and cancer.
Signaling by the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily in B‐cell biology and disease
Authors: Rickert Robert C. , Jellusova Julia , Miletic Ana V.
Published: October 2011

Summary:  Members of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) participate prominently in B‐cell maturation and function. In particular, B‐cell activating factor belonging to the TNF family receptor (BAFF‐R), B‐cell maturation antigen (BCMA), and transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor (TACI) play critical roles in promoting B‐cell survival at distinct stages of development by engaging a proliferation‐inducing ligand (APRIL) and/or BAFF. CD40 is also essential for directing the humoral response to T‐cell‐dependent antigens. Signaling by the TNFRSF is mediated primarily, albeit not exclusively, via the TNFR‐associated factor (TRAF) proteins and activation of the canonical and/or non‐canonical nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) pathways. Dysregulated signaling by TNFRSF members can promote B‐cell survival and proliferation, causing autoimmunity and neoplasia. In this review, we present a current understanding of the functions of and distinctions between APRIL/BAFF signaling by their respective receptors expressed on particular B‐cell subsets. These findings are compared and contrasted with CD40 signaling, which employs similar signaling conduits to achieve distinct cellular outcomes in the context of the germinal center response. We also underscore how new findings and conceptual insights into TNFRSF signaling are facilitating the understanding of B‐cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases.
The Role of EGF Receptor Ubiquitination in Regulating Its Intracellular Traffic
Authors: Eden Emily R. , Huang Fangtian , Sorkin Alexander , Futter Clare E.
Published: October 2011

Progression of activated EGF receptor (EGFR) through the endocytic pathway regulates EGFR signaling. Here we show that a non‐ubiquitinated EGFR mutant, unable to bind the endosomal‐sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) component, Hrs, is not efficiently targeted onto intraluminal vesicles (ILVs) of multivesicular endosomes/bodies (MVBs). Moreover, ubiquitination and ESCRT engagement of activated EGFR are required for EGF‐stimulated ILV formation. Non‐ubiquitinated EGFRs enter clathrin‐coated tubules emanating from MVBs and show enhanced recycling to the plasma membrane, compared to wild‐type EGFR.
Tree canopies explain fire effects on soil nitrogen, phosphorus and carbon in a savanna ecosystem
Authors: Holdo Ricardo M. , Mack Michelle C. , Arnold Stephen G.
Published: October 2011

Questions

What are the independent and interactive effects of fire and tree canopies on soil nutrient and C pools in savannas? Does fire differentially affect total and labile pools of C and N? How do these effects differ between nutrient‐poor, broad‐leaved savannas on sandy soils of granitic origin, and nutrient‐rich, fine‐leaved savannas on clay‐enriched basalts?

Location

Kruger National Park, South Africa.

Methods

We investigated long‐term effects of fire and tree canopies on total soil C and N, labile C, plant‐available N and P, and acid phosphatase enzymes at two sites in Kruger National Park, one on granitic and one on basaltic soil. We sampled soils from plots that form part of a 50‐yr landscape‐level controlled burning experiment. In addition to the two soil types, we sampled across three burning treatments (no burns, annual burns and triennial burns) in replicated blocks, both under and between tree canopies.

Results

There was little evidence for direct effects of fire on any of the variables tested on either soil type, with the exception of C mineralization rates on basalt, which suggested a smaller pool of labile C in frequently burned than in unburned plots. Tree canopies were positively associated with sizes of total and labile soil pools of N and C, and negatively associated with plant‐available P, particularly on nutrient‐rich basalts.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that variation in tree canopy cover is the dominant biotic driver of soil N, P and C dynamics in these savanna systems, despite the frequent occurrence of fire. Given the negative effects of fire on size of individual trees in this ecosystem, this suggests that the role of fire on nutrient cycling may be mediated primarily through its effects on canopy cover. This effect is likely to be magnified in nutrient‐rich savannas where tree canopy effects on soil nutrient dynamics are strongest.
Production of Human Antibody Fragments Binding to Melittin and Phospholipase A2 in Africanised Bee Venom: Minimising Venom Toxicity
Authors: Funayama Jaqueline C. , Pucca Manuela B. , Roncolato Eduardo C. , Bertolini Thaís B. , Campos Lucas B. , Barbosa José E.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  The hybrid created from the crossbreeding of European and African bees, known as the Africanised bee, has provided numerous advantages for current beekeeping. However, this new species exhibits undesirable behaviours, such as colony defence instinct and a propensity to attack en masse, which can result in serious accidents. To date, there is no effective treatment for cases of Africanised bee envenomation. One promising technique for developing an efficient antivenom is the use of phage display technology, which enables the production of human antibodies, thus avoiding the complications of serum therapy, such as anaphylaxis and serum sickness. The aim of this study was to produce human monoclonal single‐chain Fv (scFv) antibody fragments capable of inhibiting the toxic effects of Africanised bee venom. We conducted four rounds of selection of antibodies against the venom and three rounds of selection of antibodies against purified melittin. Three clones were selected and tested by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to verify their specificity for melittin and phospholipase A2. Two clones (C5 and C12) were specific for melittin, and one (A7) was specific for phospholipase A2. In a kinetic haemolytic assay, these clones were evaluated individually and in pairs. The A7–C12 combination had the best synergistic effect and was chosen to be used in the assays of myotoxicity inhibition and lethality. The A7–C12 combination inhibited the in vivo myotoxic effect of the venom and increased the survival of treated animals.
Superaugmented Eccentric Distance Sum Connectivity Indices: Novel Highly Discriminating Topological Descriptors for QSAR/QSPR
Authors: Gupta Monika , Gupta Sunil , Dureja Harish , Madan Anil Kumar
Published: October 2011

Four highly discriminating fourth‐generation topological indices (TIs), termed as superaugmented eccentric distance sum connectivity indices, as well as their topochemical versions (denoted by , , and ), have been conceptualized in this study. The values of these indices for all possible structures with three, four, and five vertices containing one heteroatom were computed using an in‐house computer program. The proposed superaugmented eccentric distance sum connectivity topochemical indices exhibited exceptionally high discriminating power, low degeneracy, and high sensitivity toward both the presence and the relative position of heteroatom(s) for all possible structures with five vertices containing at least one heteroatom. Intercorrelation analysis revealed the absence of correlation of proposed indices with Zagreb indices and the molecular connectivity index. Subsequently, the proposed TIs were successfully utilized for the development of models for the prediction of checkpoint kinase inhibitory activity of 2‐arylbenzimidazoles. A data set comprising 47 differently substituted analogs of 2‐arylbenzimidazoles was selected for the study. The values of various TIs for each analog in the data set were computed using an in‐house computer program. The resulting data were analyzed, and suitable models were developed through decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), and moving average analysis (MAA). The performance of the models was assessed by calculating the specificity, sensitivity, overall accuracy, and Mathew’s correlation coefficient. A decision tree was constructed for the checkpoint kinase inhibitory activity to determine the importance of topological indices. The decision tree identified the proposed TIs –, – as the most important indices. The decision tree learned the information from the input data with an accuracy of 96% and correctly predicted the cross‐validated (10‐fold) data with an accuracy of 77%. Random forest correctly predicted the checkpoint kinase inhibitory activity with an accuracy of 83%. The single index‐based models were also developed for the prediction of checkpoint kinase inhibitory activity using MAA. The accuracy of prediction of single index‐based models derived through MAA was found to vary from a minimum of 90% to a maximum of 95%. Exceptionally high discriminating power, low degeneracy, and high sensitivity toward branching and presence of heteroatom of proposed indices can be of immense use in drug design, isomer discrimination, similarity/dissimilarity studies, quantitative structure activity/property relationships, lead optimization, and combinatorial library design.
A Critical Assessment of Two Types of Personal UV Dosimeters
Authors: Seckmeyer Gunther , Klingebiel Marcus , Riechelmann Stefan , Lohse Insa , McKenzie Richard L. , Ben Liley J. , Allen Martin W. , Siani Anna‐Maria , Casale Giuseppe R.
Published: October 2011

Doses of erythemally weighted irradiances derived from polysulphone (PS) and electronic ultraviolet (EUV) dosimeters have been compared with measurements obtained using a reference spectroradiometer. PS dosimeters showed mean absolute deviations of 26% with a maximum deviation of 44%, the calibrated EUV dosimeters showed mean absolute deviations of 15% (maximum 33%) around noon during several test days in the northern hemisphere autumn. In the case of EUV dosimeters, measurements with various cut‐off filters showed that part of the deviation from the CIE erythema action spectrum was due to a small, but significant sensitivity to visible radiation that varies between devices and which may be avoided by careful preselection. Usually the method of calibrating UV sensors by direct comparison to a reference instrument leads to reliable results. However, in some circumstances the quality of measurements made with simple sensors may be over‐estimated. In the extreme case, a simple pyranometer can be used as a UV instrument, providing acceptable results for cloudless skies, but very poor results under cloudy conditions. It is concluded that while UV dosimeters are useful for their design purpose, namely to estimate personal UV exposures, they should not be regarded as an inexpensive replacement for meteorological grade instruments.
Epigenetic Alterations in Ultraviolet Radiation‐Induced Skin Carcinogenesis: Interaction of Bioactive Dietary Components on Epigenetic Targets†
Authors: Katiyar Santosh K. , Singh Tripti , Prasad Ram , Sun Qian , Vaid Mudit
Published: October 2011

The importance of epigenetic alterations in the development of various diseases including the cancers has been realized. As epigenetic changes are reversible heritable changes, these can be utilized as an effective strategy for the prevention of cancers. DNA methylation is the most characterized epigenetic mechanism that can be inherited without changing the DNA sequence. Although limited available data suggest that silencing of tumor suppressor genes in ultraviolet (UV) radiation‐exposed epidermis leads to photocarcinogenesis and is associated with a network of epigenetic modifications including alterations in DNA methylation, DNA methyltransferases and histone acetylations. Various bioactive dietary components have been shown to protect skin from UV radiation‐induced skin tumors in animal models. The role of bioactive dietary components, such as, (−)‐epicatechins from green tea and proanthocyanidins from grape seeds has been assessed in chemoprevention of UV‐induced skin carcinogenesis and underlying epigenetic mechanism in vitro and in vivo animal models. These bioactive components have the ability to block UV‐induced DNA hypermethylation and histone modifications in the skin required for the silencing of tumor suppressor genes (e.g. Cip1/p21, p16INK4a). This information is of importance for understanding the role of epigenetic modulation in UV‐induced skin tumor and the chemopreventive mechanism of bioactive dietary components.
Use of mycelia as paths for the isolation of contaminant‐degrading bacteria from soil
Authors: Furuno Shoko , Remer Rita , Chatzinotas Antonis , Harms Hauke , Wick Lukas Y.
Published: October 2011

Mycelia of fungi and soil oomycetes have recently been found to act as effective paths boosting bacterial mobility and bioaccessibility of contaminants in vadose environments. In this study, we demonstrate that mycelia can be used for targeted separation and isolation of contaminant‐degrading bacteria from soil. In a ‘proof of concept’ study we developed a novel approach to isolate bacteria from contaminated soil using mycelia of the soil oomycete Pythium ultimum as translocation networks for bacteria and the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon naphthalene (NAPH) as selective carbon source. NAPH‐degrading bacterial isolates were affiliated with the genera Xanthomonas, Rhodococcus and Pseudomonas. Except for Rhodococcus the NAPH‐degrading isolates exhibited significant motility as observed in standard swarming and swimming motility assays. All steps of the isolation procedures were followed by cultivation‐independent terminal 16S rRNA gene terminal fragment length polymorphism (T‐RFLP) analysis. Interestingly, a high similarity (63%) between both the cultivable NAPH‐degrading migrant and the cultivable parent soil bacterial community profiles was observed. This suggests that mycelial networks generally confer mobility to native, contaminant‐degrading soil bacteria. Targeted, mycelia‐based dispersal hence may have high potential for the isolation of bacteria with biotechnologically useful properties.
Modeling Climate Change Impacts on Hydrology and Nutrient Loading in the Upper Assiniboine Catchment1
Authors: Shrestha Rajesh R. , Dibike Yonas B. , Prowse Terry D.
Published: October 2011

Shrestha, Rajesh R., Yonas B. Dibike, and Terry D. Prowse, 2011. Modeling Climate Change Impacts on Hydrology and Nutrient Loading in the Upper Assiniboine Catchment. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 48(1): 74‐89. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2011.00592.x

Abstract:  This paper presents a modeling study on climate‐induced changes in hydrologic and nutrient fluxes in the Upper Assiniboine catchment, located in the Lake Winnipeg watershed. The hydrologic and agricultural chemical yield model, Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was employed to model a 21‐year baseline (1980‐2000) and future (2042‐2062) periods with model forcings for future climates derived from three regional climate models (RCMs) and their ensemble means. The modeled future scenarios reveal that potential future changes in the climatic regime are likely to modify considerably hydrologic and nutrient fluxes. The effects of future changes in climatic variables, especially precipitation and temperature, are clearly evident in the resulting snowmelt and runoff regimes. The future hydrologic scenarios consistently show earlier onsets of spring snowmelt and discharge peaks, and higher total runoff volumes. The simulated nutrient loads closely match the dynamics of the future runoff for both nitrogen and phosphorus, in terms of earlier timing of peak loads and higher total loads. However, nutrient concentrations could decrease due to the higher rate of runoff increase. Overall, the effects of these changes on the nutrient transport regime need to be considered together with possible future changes in land use, crop type, fertilizer application, and transformation processes in the receiving water bodies.
Validation of Satellite Precipitation Adjustment Methodology From Seven Basins in the Continental United States1
Authors: Tobin Kenneth J. , Bennett Marvin E.
Published: October 2011

Tobin, Kenneth J. and Marvin E. Bennett, 2012. Validation of Satellite Precipitation Adjustment Methodology From Seven Basins in the Continental United States. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 48(2): 221‐234. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2011.00604.x

Abstract:  The precipitation science community has expressed concern regarding the ability of satellite‐based precipitation products to accurately capture rainfall values over land. There has been some work that has focused on addressing the deficiencies of satellite precipitation products, particularly on the adjustment of bias. This article outlines a methodology that adjusts satellite products utilizing ground‐based precipitation data. The approach is not a simple bias adjustment, but is a three‐step process that transforms a satellite product based on a ground‐based precipitation product (NEXRAD‐derived Multisensor Precipitation Estimator [MPE] product or rain‐gauge data). The developed methodology was successfully applied to seven moderate‐to‐large sized watersheds from continental United States (CONUS) and northern Mexico over a spectrum of climatic regimes ranging from dry to humid settings. Methodology validation is based on comparison of observed and simulated streamflow generated with SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) model using unadjusted and adjusted precipitation products as input. Streamflow comparison is based on mass balance error and Nash‐Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient. Finally, the contribution of how adjustment to correct misses, false alarms, and bias impacts adjusted datasets and the potential impact that the adjustment methodology can have on hydrological applications such as water resource monitoring and flood prediction are explored.
Cause‐specific mortality in diabetes: Retrospective hospital based data from south India
Authors: VASAN Senthil K. , PITTARD Alicia E.I. , ABRAHAM Joison , SAMUEL Prasanna , SESHADRI Mandalam S. , THOMAS Nihal
Published: October 2011

Background:  India lacks comprehensive mortality data in individuals with diabetes. The present retrospective case‐control study compared the causes of death in diabetic and non‐diabetic inpatients in a tertiary care hospital in 2007.

Methods:  Deaths in diabetic patients (n = 315) were compared with 307 randomly selected controls. Medical chart review established the primary cause of death, demographics, and clinical data. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics and comparative analyses were performed.

Results:  Of the 79 067 inpatient admissions during 2007, diabetes of any type was recorded for 6517 (8.2%). There were 2017 inpatient deaths registered, 315 (15.6%) in diabetic patients and 1702 (84.4%) in non‐diabetic patients, corresponding to mortality rates of 48.3/1000 admissions for diabetic patients and 23.4/1000 admissions for non‐diabetic patients. The mean duration of hospitalization prior to death in diabetic versus non‐diabetic patients was 6.4 vs 7.7 days (P = 0.015). Causes of death in diabetic patients were vascular disease (38.4%), infection (34.3%), renal failure (8.9%), and malignancy (8.9%); diabetic patients had significantly higher odds of death from vascular disease (odds ratio [OR] 4.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.67–6.16; P ≤ 0.0001), renal causes (OR 7.39, 95%CI 2.53–29.27; P ≤ 0.001) and infection (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.12–2.32; P ≤ 0.0001). Comparing cases and controls after stratifying by age (<56 and ≥56 years), the greater odds of vascular death among diabetics remained significant in both age categories.

Conclusions:  We report vascular disease as the leading cause of death among diabetic hospital inpatients in one tertiary care center in India, in contrast with previous hospital‐based studies from India.