bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tamsulosin modulates, but does not abolish the spontaneous activity in the guinea pig prostate gland
Authors: Chakrabarty Basu , Dey Anupa , Lam Michelle , Ventura Sabatino , Exintaris Betty
Published: January 2014

Aims

To examine the effects of the α1A‐adrenoceptor antagonist, tamsulosin, on spontaneous contractile and electrical activity in the guinea‐pig prostate gland.

Methods

The effects of tamsulosin (0.1 and 0.3 nM) were investigated in adult and ageing male guinea pig prostate glands using conventional tension recording and electrophysiological intracellular microelectrode recording techniques.

Results

Tamsulosin reduced spontaneous activity, and had different age‐dependent effects on adult and ageing guinea pigs at different concentrations. 0.1 nM tamsulosin caused a significantly greater reduction of spontaneous contractile and electrical activity in ageing guinea pigs in comparison to adult guinea pigs. In contrast, 0.3 nM tamsulosin had a significantly greater reduction of spontaneous contractile and electrical activity in adult guinea pigs in comparison to ageing guinea pigs.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that tamsulosin can modulate spontaneous myogenic stromal contractility and the underlying spontaneous electrical activity; tamsulosin does not block spontaneous activity. This reduction in spontaneous activity suggests that downstream cellular mechanisms underlying smooth muscle tone are being targeted, and these may represent novel therapeutic targets to better treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. Neurourol. Urodynam. 34:482–488, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Examining the smooth and nonsmooth discrete element approaches to granular matter
Authors: Servin M. , Wang D. , Lacoursière C. , Bodin K.
Published: January 2014

The smooth and nonsmooth approaches to the discrete element method (DEM) are examined from a computational perspective. The main difference can be understood as using explicit versus implicit time integration. A formula is obtained for estimating the computational effort depending on error tolerance, system geometric shape and size, and on the dynamic state. For the nonsmooth DEM (NDEM), a regularized version mapping to the Hertz contact law is presented. This method has the conventional nonsmooth and smooth DEM as special cases depending on size of time step and value of regularization. The use of the projected Gauss‐Seidel solver for NDEM simulation is studied on a range of test systems. The following characteristics are found. First, the smooth DEM is computationally more efficient for soft materials, wide and tall systems, and with increasing flow rate. Secondly, the NDEM is more beneficial for stiff materials, shallow systems, static or slow flow, and with increasing error tolerance. Furthermore, it is found that just as pressure saturates with depth in a granular column, due to force arching, also the required number of iterations saturates and become independent of system size. This effect make the projected Gauss‐Seidel solver scale much better than previously thought. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of three accelerated FFT‐based schemes for computing the mechanical response of composite materials
Authors: Moulinec H. , Silva F.
Published: January 2014

Since the early 1990s when an iterative method based on Fourier transforms was introduced to compute the mechanical properties of heterogeneous materials, several algorithms have been proposed to increase the convergence rate of the initial scheme. This paper is devoted to the comparison of three of these accelerated schemes. It shows that two of them are special cases of the third, corresponding to particular choices of parameters of the method. An upper bound of the spectral radius of the schemes is determined, from which sufficient conditions of convergence of the schemes are derived. Conditions are found for minimizing this upper bound. In particular, the accelerated scheme, which minimizes this upper bound, is exhibited. The paper discusses the choice of the convergence test used in the schemes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A pilot study of electronic directly observed therapy to improve hydroxyurea adherence in pediatric patients with sickle‐cell disease
Authors: Creary Susan E. , Gladwin Mark T. , Byrne Melissa , Hildesheim Mariana , Krishnamurti Lakshmanan
Published: January 2014

Background

Poor hydroxyurea (HU) adherence limits effective HU use in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Electronic directly observed therapy (DOT) may limit costs and achieve high HU adherence in children with SCD. This study aimed to determine if electronic DOT was feasible, acceptable, and could achieve ≥90% HU adherence.

Procedure

Children with SCD were recruited for this single institution, 6‐month pilot study if they had been prescribed HU for ≥6 months and had daily access to a smartphone or computer. Participants submitted HU administration videos daily and received electronic reminder alerts, personalized feedback, and incentives to encourage adherence as part of electronic DOT. Primary outcomes were feasibility, participant satisfaction with electronic DOT, and HU adherence. Secondary outcomes included mean corpuscular volume (MCV), hemoglobin F percentage (HbF), and overall participant satisfaction with HU therapy.

Results

Of 15 enrolled participants, 14 completed the study. Satisfaction surveys showed electronic DOT reminded participants to take HU and could be completed in fewer than 5 minutes daily. Participants' median medication possession ratio at study entry improved from 0.75 (0.59–0.82) to 0.91 (0.85–1.00) (P = 0.02) at the end of the study. Overall median observed HU adherence with electronic DOT was 93.3%. Median MCV and HbF increased from 96.0 to107.2 (P = 0.009) and 10.5 to 11.4 (P = 0.03), respectively.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates electronic DOT is feasible, acceptable, and can achieve high HU adherence. Further study is needed to confirm that electronic DOT can improve HU adherence and impact clinical outcomes in children with SCD. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1068–1073. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fit4Life: A weight loss intervention for children who have survived childhood leukemia
Authors: Huang Jeannie S. , Dillon Lindsay , Terrones Laura , Schubert Lynn , Roberts William , Finklestein Jerry , Swartz Maria C. , Norman Gregory J. , Patrick Kevin
Published: January 2014

Background

Children surviving acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are at increased risk for overweight and obesity over that of the general population. Whether a generic or tailored approach to weight management is needed for cancer survivors has yet to be tested.

Procedure

Thirty‐eight youth 8–18 years with BMI ≥ 85% who had survived ALL were recruited for a randomized clinical trial evaluating a weight management intervention (WMI) tailored for childhood ALL survivors (Fit4Life). Fit4Life recipients received a 4‐month web, phone, and text message‐delivered WMI tailored for cancer survivorship. Controls received a general WMI delivered via phone and mail. Assessments were performed at baseline and 4 months. Outcome data were analyzed according to assigned treatment condition over time.

Results

Most (80%, (70%, 100%) [median (IQR)]) of the assigned curriculum was received by Fit4Life participants as compared to 50% (40%, 65%) among controls. Fit4Life recipients ≥14 years demonstrated less weight gain (P = 0.05) and increased moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (P < 0.01) while all Fit4Life recipients reported reduced negative mood (P < 0.05) over time as compared to control counterparts.

Conclusions

We demonstrated acceptable feasibility of a WMI tailored for overweight and obese children surviving ALL utilizing a multimodal technology approach. Improved weight, weight‐related behavior, and psychological outcomes were demonstrated among Fit4Life intervention as compared to youth receiving a generic WMI. Data from this pilot trial may be used to design a larger trial to determine whether youth of all ages also can derive a benefit from a cancer survivor‐tailored WMI and whether short‐term outcomes translate into improved long‐term outcomes for childhood ALL survivors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:894–900. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Safety profile of asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi in a large compassionate‐use trial
Authors: Plourde Paul V. , Jeha Sima , Hijiya Nobuko , Keller Frank G. , Silverman Lewis B. , Rheingold Susan R. , Dreyer ZoAnn E. , Dahl Gary V. , Mercedes Taheri , Lai Chinglin , Corn Tim
Published: January 2014

Background

L‐Asparaginase is an integral component of standard chemotherapy regimens for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Clinical hypersensitivity, a common reason for treatment discontinuation, has been reported in 10–30% of patients receiving Escherichia coli‐derived asparaginase. After hypersensitivity, E. coli‐derived asparaginase should be discontinued and an alternative asparaginase preparation, such as asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi, may be initiated. We conducted a compassionate‐use study to collect additional safety information on asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi and to support FDA approval of the product.

Procedure

Patients with ALL or lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL; N = 1368) who developed a hypersensitivity reaction (grade ≥2) to an E. coli‐derived asparaginase participated in this trial. The recommended asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi dose was 25,000 IU/m2 three days per week (Monday/Wednesday/Friday) for two consecutive weeks for each missed pegylated E. coli‐derived asparaginase dose and 25,000 IU/m2 for each missed nonpegylated asparaginase dose for the completion of their planned asparaginase treatment.

Results

Adverse event reports and/or case report forms were completed for 940 patients. The most common adverse event (AE) was hypersensitivity (13.6%). Eighteen patients (1.9%) died during the study. Most patients (77.6%) completed their planned asparaginase treatment with asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi. There was no apparent difference in the incidence of the most commonly reported AEs with asparaginase treatment by age, administration, or disease state.

Conclusions

This study further established the safety profile of asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi in patients with ALL or LBL who had a hypersensitivity reaction to an E. coli‐derived asparaginase. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1232–1238. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modification of coconut fibers with polyaniline for manufacture of pressure‐sensitive devices
Authors: de Souza Junior Fernando Gomes , Carlos Pinto José , Alves Garcia Flávia , de Oliveira Geiza Esperandio , Bruno Tavares Maria Inês , da Silva Andréa Maria , Daher Pereira Emiliane
Published: January 2014

This article studies the modification of coconut fibers with polyaniline (PAni) with help of statistical experimental design techniques. The main factors studied here were the techniques used for particle dispersion (sonication vs. magnetic stirring) and the type of initiator (ammonium persulfate, APS, vs. ammonium cerium sulfate dihydrate, Ce(IV)). The obtained materials were characterized through low field nuclear magnetic resonance, small‐and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, scanning electron microscopy, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. Additionally, the electrical resistivities and respective sensitivities to variations of the applied pressure were evaluated for all obtained samples, with help of standard volume resistivity measurements and electro‐mechanical tests. The materials prepared through magnetic stirring with APS presented the best electrical and electromechanical properties, although materials prepared through sonication with Ce(IV) also presented good electrical and electromechanical properties and could be prepared much faster. As a consequence, modification of coconut fibers with PAni, using sonication as the particle dispersion technique and Ce(IV) as initiator, constitutes a very promising procedure for manufacture of pressure‐sensitive devices. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:2887–2895, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Radical cations of disubstituted cyclopropanes: stereoelectronic effects on hyperfine coupling
Authors: Roth Heinz D. , Sauers Ronald R. , Theisen Kevin J. , Neshchadin Dmytro , Gescheidt Georg
Published: January 2014

The positive hyperfine coupling constants of the geminal 1H nuclei in cis‐1,2‐dimethyl‐ and cis‐1,2‐diphenylcyclopropane radical cations show a significant stereoelectronic effect: the 1H nuclei trans (anti) to the substituents are coupled much more strongly than the corresponding nuclei cis (syn) to them. Theoretical calculations on these radical cations and on bismethano[2,2]paracylophane as well as new 1H‐CIDNP experiments at 200 Mz elucidate the general features of these systems. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Massively parallel solvers for elliptic partial differential equations in numerical weather and climate prediction
Authors: Müller Eike H. , Scheichl Robert
Published: January 2014

The demand for substantial increases in the spatial resolution of global weather and climate prediction models makes it necessary to use numerically efficient and highly scalable algorithms to solve the equations of large‐scale atmospheric fluid dynamics. For stability and efficiency reasons, several of the operational forecasting centres, in particular the Met Office and the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) in the UK, use semi‐implicit semi‐Lagrangian time‐stepping in the dynamical core of the model. The additional burden with this approach is that a three‐dimensional elliptic partial differential equation (PDE) for the pressure correction has to be solved at every model time step and this often constitutes a significant proportion of the time spent in the dynamical core. In global models, this PDE must be solved in a thin spherical shell.

To run within tight operational time‐scales, the solver has to be parallelized and there seems to be a (perceived) misconception that elliptic solvers do not scale to large processor counts and hence implicit time‐stepping cannot be used in very high‐resolution global models. After reviewing several methods for solving the elliptic PDE for the pressure correction and their application in atmospheric models, we demonstrate the performance and very good scalability of Krylov subspace solvers and multigrid algorithms for a representative model equation with more than 1010 unknowns on 65 536 cores on the High‐End Computing Terascale Resource (HECToR), the UK's national supercomputer. For this, we tested and optimized solvers from two existing numerical libraries (the Distributed and Unified Numerics Environment (DUNE) and Parallel High Performance Preconditioners (hypre)) and implemented both a conjugate gradient solver and a geometric multigrid algorithm based on a tensor‐product approach, which exploits the strong vertical anisotropy of the discretized equation. We study both weak and strong scalability and compare the absolute solution times for all methods; in contrast to one‐level methods, the multigrid solver is robust with respect to parameter variations.
Management with a Frame of Mind for Systemic Thinking: A Conceptual Condition Setting Tool
Authors: Ngana Jean‐Paul
Published: January 2014

Social responsibility is a novelty that should replace the current socio‐economic order for humankind to survive by application of systemic thinking/behaviour. In this context, the purpose of this article is to propose a conceptual tool to setting the necessary condition to fostering the unlearning of the principles of the reductionist approach and its methodological approach, and the learning (both at individual and organizational levels) of the systemic approach, towards sustainability via social responsibility. This article argues that failing to simultaneously acknowledge and take into consideration the inherited reductionist principles and its longstanding established methodological approach, and the management models (mechanistic, biological and social), is counterproductive in the process of embracing and/or learning the systemic approach. It also argues that failing to adopt the suitable management model and its proper contextualization has slowed and/or negatively impacted the journey towards sustainability's destination, including social responsibility. A systemic view is taken in order to foster a frame of mind simultaneously acknowledging and unlearning the reductionist fundamental principles and methodologies, and adopting appropriate management model, in the process of learning systemic approach. A conceptual condition setting tool is proposed on the basis of the integration of the fundamental and complementary principles of unlearning and learning, and the principles of management models. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distribution of AMPA receptor subunit glur1 in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and effect of stress
Authors: Hubert George W. , Muly E. Chris
Published: January 2014

The brain circuitry thought to be involved in stress responses includes several nuclei of the extended amygdala. The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is thought to be involved in the generation of sustained, nonspecific anxiety. Previous behavioral and electrophysiological experiments demonstrate that glutamate systems are involved in anxiety‐like behaviors in the BNST. Antagonists for AMPA receptors injected into the BNST decrease anxiety‐like behaviors. However, little is known about the role of AMPA receptors and the mechanism by which they act in the establishment of anxiety‐like behavior in response to a stressor. We hypothesized that the distribution of AMPA receptors is changed following a paradigm of unpredictable footshock as has been seen in the basolateral amygdala (BLA). We examined the subcellular localization of the GluR1 subunits of the AMPA receptor. We found that the neuropil of the BNST had a lower density of dendritic spines compared to dendritic shafts in the BLA. The majority of elements immunolabeled for GluR1 were dendritic shafts and spines with axonal and glial elements rarely labeled. Compared with controls, no significant effect was observed on days 1, 6, or 14 poststress. However, there was a trend for an increase at 6 and 14 days poststress. These data demonstrate that GluR1 subunits are primarily located on postsynaptic elements in the BNST. Moreover, it was shown that the response of the AMPA GluR1 subunit does not undergo a significant migration into spines from dendrites in response to a stressor as has been demonstrated in the BLA. Synapse 68:194–201, 2014. Published 2014
Exemplary practices in field trips to natural environments
Authors: Tal Tali , Lavie Alon Nirit , Morag Orly
Published: January 2014

In light of the literature that deals with challenges of outdoor education, this paper presents exemplary practices in field trips to natural environments. We offer an analysis of 62 field trips of students in grades 4–8 (age 10–14), guided by professional guides or by teachers. In aiming at elucidating the qualities of exemplary fieldtrips, we analyze five examples of high quality field trips. Each of the five was exemplary in several aspects, but not necessarily in all. Data were collected though observations and interviews with teachers, guides and students. Interpretative analysis was used in addition to an analytic framework that we developed previously. In general, we stress that good collaboration between the guide and the teacher, who enact active learning and psychomotor activity, and make much use of the environment for student exploration and interaction, are the key to high quality outdoor learning experiences. We provide several examples to support this claim. Other aspects we highlight are a sense of freedom, time and opportunity to enjoy nature and the opportunities to have meaningful social interactions. In light of the prevalent critique toward current outdoor education practice, we suggest the research community learn from good practices. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 51: 430–461, 2014
On What is Effable
Authors: Belleri Delia ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: January 2014

The Effability thesis has it that all propositions can be encoded by a sentence. By contrast, the Ineffability thesis has it that no proposition can be encoded by a sentence. In this article, I undermine an importantmotivation for the Ineffability thesis and advance a proposal concerning what is effable andwhat is not.My strategywill be as follows: First, I’ll note that the Ineffability thesis assumes that propositions/thoughts are determinate. I’ll point out that propositions/thoughts qua the things we believe and mean by our utterances may in fact be indeterminate with regard to, for instance, mental predication and mental reference. I’ll then propose a ‘‘Gradable Effability’’: propositions/thoughts are more or less determinate according to the aims, interests, available information of thinkers, and sentences too encode propositions depending on the aims, interests, available information in the speakers’ conversational setting.
In Defence of Swamping
Authors: Dutant Julien ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: January 2014

The Swamping Problem shows that two claims are incompatible: (a) the claim that knowledge has more epistemic value than mere true belief and (b) a strict variant of the claim that all epistemic value is truth or instrumental on truth. Most current solutions reject (b). Carter and Jarvis (2012) and Carter, Jarvis and Rubin (2013) object instead to a principle that underlies the problem. This paper argues that their objections fail and the problem stands. It also outlines a novel solution which rejects (a). By carefully distinguishing value from expected value, one can argue that the greater value of knowledge is merely apparent (Dutant 2012; Petersen 2013).
Antisymmetric tensor Z
p
gauge symmetries in field theory and string theory
Authors: Berasaluce-González Mikel , Ramírez Guillermo , Uranga Angel M.
Published: January 2014

Abstract

We consider discrete gauge symmetries in D dimensions arising as remnants of broken continuous gauge symmetries carried by general antisymmetric tensor fields, rather than by standard 1-forms. The lagrangian for such a general Z
p gauge theory can be described in terms of a r-form gauge field made massive by a (r − 1)-form, or other dual realizations, that we also discuss. The theory contains charged topological defects of different dimensionalities, generalizing the familiar charged particles and strings in D = 4. We describe realizations in string theory compactifications with torsion cycles, or with background field strength fluxes. We also provide examples of non-abelian discrete groups, for which the group elements are associated with charged objects of different dimensionality.
Species diversity estimation of ambrosia and bark beetles in temperate mixed forests in Japan based on host phylogeny and specificity
Authors: Watanabe Kenji , Murakami Masashi , Hirao Toshihide , Kamata Naoto
Published: January 2014

Understandings of the effect of host plant phylogeny on the structure of herbivore assemblage is useful for estimating global species richness of herbivores. Here we test the relationship between host plant phylogeny and two assemblages including ambrosia beetle assemblage that have been considered to be the lowest host specificity among plant‐dependent guilds. These results of local scale were used for estimating regional species richness by extrapolating to the number of plant order and species in Japan. The estimated numbers were compared with the numbers of described species in Japan. Tree trunks of 17 plant species representing 17 orders of all major lineages of Japanese tree flora were exposed for collecting wood boring beetle species. A total of 12 ambrosia and four bark beetle species were collected. Similarity of both ambrosia and bark beetle assemblages showed a significant negative trend with phylogenetic distance between focal host plant species. The regression model for this relationship was well fit by a linear model whereas previous studies used a semi‐log model, which suggests a difference in mechanism of host utilization with host taxonomic levels. Our results showed a broader host range of ambrosia beetle assemblage in temperate forest than to a comparable study in tropical rainforests. Species richness estimated is lower than the described species in Japan, suggesting the need for more samples along the altitudinal gradients for accurate estimation for the Japanese fauna.
Lower availability of midbrain serotonin transporter between healthy subjects with and without a family history of major depressive disorder – a preliminary two-ligand SPECT study
Authors: Hsieh P.C. , Chen K.C. , Yeh T.L. , Lee I.H. , Chen P.S. , Yao W.J. , Chiu N.-T. , Chen C.-C. , Liao M.-H. , Yang Y.K.
Published: January 2014

Purpose

Serotonin transporter (SERT) and dopamine transporter (DAT) levels differ in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) who are in a depressed state in comparison with healthy controls. In addition, a family history of depression is a potent risk factor for developing depression, and inherited vulnerability to serotonergic and dopaminergic dysfunction is suspected in this. The aim of this study was to examine the availabilities of midbrain SERT and striatal DAT in healthy subjects with and without a first-degree family history of MDD.

Methods

Eight healthy subjects with first-degree relatives with MDD and 16 sex- and age-matched healthy controls were recruited. The availabilities of SERT and DAT were approximated using SPECT, employing [123I] 2-((2-((dimethylamino)methyl)phenyl)thio)-5-iodophenylamine (ADAM) and [99mTc] TRODAT-1 as the ligands, respectively. There are missing data for one participant with a first-degree family history of MDD from the ADAM study, due to a lack of the radio-ligand at the time of experiment.

Results

SERT availability in the midbrain was significantly lower in subjects with a first-degree family history of MDD than in healthy subjects. However, DAT availability was no different between two groups.

Conclusions

The results with regard to the midbrain SERT level suggest the heritability of MDD.
Poor longitudinal continuity of care is associated with an increased mortality rate among patients with mental disorders: Results from the French National Health Insurance Reimbursement Database
Authors: Hoertel N. , Limosin F. , Leleu H.
Published: January 2014

Background

Research on the impact of the continuity of care (COC) on health outcomes in patients with mental illness is limited. This observational study examined whether the longitudinal COC is associated with a decreased likelihood of death among patients with mental disorders in the French general population.

Method

Data were derived from the French National Health Insurance (NHI) reimbursement database. Patients with any mental disorder who visited a psychiatrist at least twice within 6 months were included. The primary endpoint was death by all causes. We measured longitudinal COC with a psychiatrist twice a year between 2007 and 2010, using the COC index developed by Bice and Boxerman. The COC index was analysed as a time-dependent variable in a survival analysis after adjustments for age, gender and stratifying on comorbidities and social status.

Results

Among 14,515 patients visiting a psychiatrist at least twice in 6 months and tracked over 3 years, likelihood of death was significantly lower in patients with higher continuity of care (hazard ratio for an increase in 0.1 of continuity, adjusted for age, sex, and stratified on comorbidities and social status: 0.83 [0.83–0.83]), particularly in those with bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder and schizophrenia.

Conclusion

Improving longitudinal continuity of care in mental health care may contribute to substantially decrease mortality.
A lacustrine record of the early stage of the Miocene Climatic Optimum in Central Europe from the Most Basin, Ohře (Eger) Graben, Czech Republic
Authors: MATYS GRYGAR TOMÁŠ , MACH KAREL , SCHNABL PETR , PRUNER PETR , LAURIN JIŘÍ , MARTINEZ MATHIEU
Published: January 2014

This study reports on a ~ 150 m thick macrofossil-barren sequence of siliciclastic sediments from a Burdigalian age (Early Miocene) freshwater lake. The lake was located within an incipient rift system of the Most Basin in the Ohře (Eger) Graben, which was part of the European Cenozoic Rift System, and had an original area of ≈ 1000 km2. Sediments from the HK591 core that cover the entire thickness of the lake deposits and some of the adjacent stratigraphic units were analysed by X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (a proxy for element composition) and magnetic polarity measurement. The element proxies were subjected to frequency analysis, which provided estimated sedimentation rates, and allowed for sediment dating by magnetostratigraphy and orbital tuning of the age model. Based on the resulting age model and the known biostratigraphy, the lake was present between 17.4 and 16.6 Ma, which includes the onset of the Miocene Climatic Optimum in the latest Early Miocene. The identification of orbital forcing (precession, obliquity and short eccentricity cycles) confirms the stability of the sedimentary environment of the perennial lake in an underfilled basin. The dating allowed the sediment record to be interpreted in the context of the current knowledge of the European climate during that period. The stability of the sedimentary environment confirms that precipitation was relatively stable over the period recorded by the sediments.
Use of used vs. fresh cheese brines and the effect of pH and salt concentration on the survival of Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Schirmer Bjørn C T , Heir Even , Lindstedt Bjørn-Arne , Møretrø Trond , Langsrud Solveig
Published: January 2014

The aim of the study was to investigate how the use of fresh cheese brines compared with used brines and various combinations of pH and NaCl concentrations affected the survival of Listeria monocytogenes. Cheese brines from five Norwegian small scale cheese producers were analysed and showed great variations in pH (4·54–6·01) and NaCl concentrations (14·1–26·9 %). The survival of five strains of List. monocytogenes (two clinical isolates, two food isolates and one animal isolate) in four different cheese brines (three used and one fresh) was investigated. Results showed significant differences in survival both depending on the strains and the brines. Strains of human outbreak listeriosis cases showed greater ability to survive in the brines compared with food isolates and a List. monocytogenes reference strain (1–2 log10 difference after 200 d). All strains showed highest survival in the freshly prepared brine compared with the used brines. Molecular typing by multiple locus variable number tandem repeats analysis (MLVA) showed that there were no detectable alterations in the examined variable number tandem repeats of the genome in five strains after 200 d storage in any of the salt brines. Combined effects of pH (4·5, 5·25 and 6·0) and NaCl (15, 20 and 25 %) in fresh, filter sterilised brines on the survival of List. monocytogenes were examined and results showed that pathogen populations decreased over time in all brines. Death rates at any given NaCl concentration were highest at low pH (4·5) and death rates at any given pH were highest at low NaCl concentrations (15 %). In conclusion, the use of used brines reduced the survival of List. monocytogenes and a combination of low pH (4·5) and low salt concentrations (15 %) decreased the risk of List. monocytogenes survival compared with higher pH (5·25 or 6·0) and higher NaCl concentrations (20 or 25 %).
Thyroid gland involvement in carcinoma of the hypopharynx
Authors: Joshi P , Nair S , Chaturvedi P , Nair D , Shivakumar T , D'Cruz A K
Published: January 2014

Objective:

The thyroid gland is removed en bloc during laryngectomy. There are no objective criteria for deciding the extent of thyroid gland resection in primary hypopharyngeal cancer cases. The present study aimed to determine the incidence of thyroid gland involvement in hypopharyngeal cancer and identify the various predictors of this involvement.

Method:

This paper reports a retrospective analysis of 358 patients with hypopharyngeal cancer, who underwent total laryngectomy with partial or total pharyngectomy at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai between 2004 and 2010.

Results:

The mean age of this population was 61 years. The pyriform sinus was the most common hypopharyngeal subsite involved (in 89 per cent of cases). Most patients underwent hemi-thyroidectomy as part of their surgery. The thyroid gland was involved in only 13 per cent of cases.

Conclusion:

Thyroid gland involvement is not common in hypopharyngeal cancer. Cases that involved the post-cricoid area, subglottic extension, extralaryngeal spread or prior tracheostomy were associated with a higher risk of thyroid gland involvement. Ipsilateral thyroidectomy is sufficient in most patients undergoing surgery (laryngectomy with partial or total pharyngectomy) for hypopharyngeal cancers.
Reproductive strategies of two invasive sun corals (Tubastraeaspp.) in the southwestern Atlantic
Authors: de Paula Alline Figueira , de Oliveira Pires Débora , Creed Joel Christopher
Published: January 2014

The azooxanthellate sun coralsTubastraea coccineaandT. tagusensisare invasive species which were introduced into Brazilian shallow-water tropical rocky reefs by oil and gas platforms. Both species are simultaneous hermaphrodites and brooders. Histological analysis shows a continuous reproduction with the presence of different stages of development of oocytes, spermatic cysts and larvae occurring together in the same polyps (overlapping). Gametogenesis, embryogenesis, planulation and settlement were observed. Although most of the colonies showed only oocytes, none had only testes. Spermatic cysts were observed in 8.3% ofT. coccineacolonies and in 5.5% of colonies ofT. tagusensis. The maximum diameter of oocyte ofT. tagusensis(1252.5 µm) was greater thanT. coccinea(901.8 µm) and mature spermaries 700 µm in diameter formed the typical arrangement of ‘bouquets’. Although all colonies showed oocytes throughout the year, two reproductive peaks of 3–4 months duration were observed. The larvae ofT. coccineaandT. tagusensishad a competency period of 18 d in aquaria and settled near the parental colony. The investigation of gametogenesis, temporal patterns of reproduction, fecundity and sexual maturation helps to explain the rapid expansion in to new habitats and high population growth in these invasive sun corals.
Evaluation of a low-cost, non-invasive survey technique to assess the relative abundance, diversity and behaviour of sharks on Sudanese reefs (Southern Red Sea)
Authors: Rezzolla Danilo , Boldrocchi Ginevra , Storai Tiziano
Published: January 2014

A low-cost and non-invasive survey technique focused on pelagic sharks was evaluated during an ecotourism cruise on two Sudanese reefs, Angarosh and Sha'ab Rumi, in the Southern Red Sea. The research technology was based on a set of small, underwater video recording cameras and a pair of laser pointers. Video footage provided insight into shark biodiversity on the two reefs, detecting five species, Alopias vulpinus, Sphyrna lewini, Triaenodon obesus, Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos and Galeocerdo cuvier, during 15.8 h of video recording. These recordings also provided preliminary information on aggregations of S. lewini. The laser pointers were used to measure the size of sharks, providing seven total length (TL) measurements for S. lewini (N = 2) and C. amblyrhynchos (N = 5), confirming the possibility of easily obtaining size parameters using this tool. These low-cost and user-friendly instruments provide ecotourism divers with an opportunity to become involved in marine research projects.
A new species of alcyonacean octocoral from the Peruvian zoogeographic region
Authors: Breedy Odalisca , Guzman Hector M.
Published: January 2014

The first record of the plexaurid genusPsammogorgiafrom the shallow waters of Peru is reported here. A new species (Psammogorgia hookerisp. nov.) is described from Isla San Gallán, Paracas National Reserve. The new species was morphologically analysed using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. It is distinguished from the others in the genus by its small size; prominent calyces with wide lips around polyp apertures and without a special type of sclerites, but with a concentration of irregular, thorny spindles and wart-clubs around the calyx rim; coenenchymal sclerites that do not reach more than 0.2 mm long; the occurrence of conspicuous star-like radiates; and the colour of the colony and coenenchymal sclerites, which is coral red. The results increase species richness within a genus that has not been studied for more than a century, and contribute to the establishment of characters for further morphological studies. Additionally, the new species adds value to existing protected areas and to the octocoral biodiversity records for the Peruvian region and the eastern Pacific.
Evidence of trawling impact onHoplostethus mediterraneusin the central–eastern Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Vitale S. , Ragonese S. , Cannizzaro L. , Fiorentino F. , Mazzola S.
Published: January 2014

The silver roughy,Hoplostethus mediterraneusis a benthopelagic cosmopolitan fish regularly caught as by-catch of the deep-water crustacean trawl fishery (CTF) in the central–eastern Mediterranean. Monthly samples of silver roughy were sampled from the catches of four commercial trawlers in 2004. Each trawler operated in different fishing grounds (FGs), located off Northern Tunisia, South of Sicily, Malta Islands and in South Levant, for which different exploitation levels are reported. The overall length–frequency distribution (LFD) was constructed, and fishing impact indices (length as percentage of LFD, optimum and maximum length, percentage of mega-spawners and total mortality/von Bertalanffy curvature ratio) were calculated. In spite of an overall acceptable status (juveniles, matures and mega-spawners were present in the catch), sampling data revealed significant differences in LFD shape and status indices between FGs. Those FGs traditionally considered more exploited (Northern Tunisia and South of Sicily) showed a dominance of juveniles, a rarefaction of mega-spawners, a reduction in maximum and asymptotic length and a higherZ/Kratio. Considering the general homogeneity of Mediterranean deep-water habitats, the pelagic dispersal of eggs and the poor swimming capabilities of silver roughy, the present results indicated that deep-water trawling may induce a slow and subtle, although significant, erosion of the older, late maturing and slow growing component of the stocks in the Mediterranean (so-called longevity-overfishing).
Reflections on Conventional Portrayals of the African American Experience during the Progressive Era or “the Nadir”
Authors: Dagbovie Pero Gaglo
Published: January 2014

This essay, a slightly revised version of the distinguished historian address presented to SHGAPE in April 2013, suggests that millennial learners are oftentimes inadequately introduced to the African American experience during the Progressive Era, a period that historians of the black past, sampling from Rayford W. Logan's 1954 opus, customarily call “the Nadir” or “the lowest point” in the African American struggle for social justice. When discussing the Progressive Era, normative U.S. history textbooks at high school and college and university levels tend to relegate blacks to the margins of cultural and historical change, minimize lynching and other forms of anti-black violence that characterized the period, and endorse the archaic W. E. B. Du Bois–Booker T. Washington dichotomy of black leadership at the expense of oversimplifying and even denigrating Washington's accomplishments and legacy. On the other hand, specialized African American history textbooks and monographs equip their readers with critical interpretations that challenge what historian Manning Marable called the “master narrative of American history.” In this essay, I offer my thoughts on these subjects and propose some basic suggestions for more effectively teaching, problematizing, and thinking about the African American experience during the complex Progressive Era.
State-of-the-art aortic imaging: Part II - applications in transcatheter aortic valve replacement and endovascular aortic aneurysm repair
Authors: Rengier Fabian , Geisbüsch Philipp , Schoenhagen Paul , Müller-Eschner Matthias , Vosshenrich Rolf , Karmonik Christof , von Tengg-Kobligk Hendrik , Partovi Sasan
Published: January 2014

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) as well as thoracic and abdominal endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR and EVAR) rely on accurate pre- and postprocedural imaging. This review article discusses the application of imaging, including preprocedural assessment and measurements as well as postprocedural imaging of complications. Furthermore, the exciting perspective of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) based on cross-sectional imaging is presented. TAVR is a minimally invasive alternative for treatment of aortic valve stenosis in patients with high age and multiple comorbidities who cannot undergo traditional open surgical repair. Given the lack of direct visualization during the procedure, pre- and peri-procedural imaging forms an essential part of the intervention. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) is the imaging modality of choice for preprocedural planning. Routine postprocedural follow-up is performed by echocardiography to confirm treatment success and detect complications. EVAR and TEVAR are minimally invasive alternatives to open surgical repair of aortic pathologies. CTA constitutes the preferred imaging modality for both preoperative planning and postoperative follow-up including detection of endoleaks. Magnetic resonance imaging is an excellent alternative to CT for postoperative follow-up, and is especially beneficial for younger patients given the lack of radiation. Ultrasound is applied in screening and postoperative follow-up of abdominal aortic aneurysms, but cross-sectional imaging is required once abnormalities are detected. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound may be as sensitive as CTA in detecting endoleaks.
Renal artery stenosis: Up-date on diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Zeller Thomas , Macharzina Roland , Rastan Aljoscha , Beschorner Ulrich , Noory Elias
Published: January 2014

Significant renal artery stenosis (RAS) can cause or result in deterioration of arterial hypertension and may promote the development of renal insufficiency. The activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system results in structural heart disease and may impact patient survival. Technical improvements of diagnostic and interventional endovascular tools have led to a more widespread use of endoluminal renal artery revascularization and extension of the indications for this type of therapy during the past two decades. Whereas balloon angioplasty is still the method of choice for the treatment of fibromuscular dysplasia, stent implantation is indicated in ostial atherosclerotic RAS. However, none of the so far published or presented randomized controlled trials could prove a beneficial outcome of RAS revascularization compared to medical management. As a result of these negative trials including the largest published trial to date, the ASTRAL trial, referrals to endovascular renal artery revascularization have declined and, moreover, reimbursement of these procedures has become a matter of debate. Crucial for a clinical benefit following revascularization of RAS is proper patient selection, revascularization being only indicated after proof of hemodynamic relevance of RAS. This article summarizes the appropriate diagnostic work-up of patients with suspected RAS, discusses the limitations of the results published so far and their impact on the indication for RAS revascularization.
Startklar fürs Lesen
Authors: Korntheuer Petra
Published: January 2014

Wichtige Grundlagen für den Schriftspracherwerb als Meilenstein der Bildungsentwicklung werden vorschulisch nicht nur im Elternhaus, sondern auch in der elementaren Bildung gelegt. Die föderale Struktur des deutschen Bildungssystems mit länderspezifischen Bildungsplänen und ein Mangel an Instrumenten führen dazu, dass Umgebungsfaktoren in Bildungseinrichtungen bislang kaum untersucht wurden. Der Beitrag stellt die aus den USA stammende Checkliste „Startklar fürs Lesen“ vor, ein Selbstbeurteilungsinstrument zum bildungsplanunabhängigen Screening schriftspracherwerbs-vorbereitender Umweltfaktoren und Aktivitäten in Kindertagesstätten. Eine Pilotstudie in 98 hessischen Kindertagesstätten ergibt für die Checkliste erste psychometrische Kennwerte und zeigt Ergebnisse der Anwenderevaluation zu Aspekten wie Handhabbarkeit, Relevanz und empfundenem Nutzen zur Verbesserung der Förderung. Ergänzend werden deskriptive Daten zur Checkliste mit Kenntnisstand und Fortbildungsinteresse der pädagogischen Fachkräfte in Zusammenhang gebracht. Anwendungsbereiche, Grenzen und Verbesserungsbedarf der Checkliste werden diskutiert.
Systematisches Bildungsmonitoring im Vorschulalter am Beispiel des Nationalen Bildungspanels (NEPS)
Authors: Attig Manja , Fey Doreen , Karwath Claudia , Linberg Tobias
Published: January 2014

In der gegenwärtigen Diskussion um frühkindliche Bildung sowohl in der Praxis als auch in der Wissenschaft zeigt sich der Bedarf an einem systematischen Bildungsmonitoring. Die vorhandene Datenlandschaft in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland kann dies bisher nicht abdecken. Das Nationale Bildungspanel (NEPS) versucht diese Forschungslücke zu schließen. Der Beitrag informiert über die beiden Startkohorten im frühkindlichen Bereich des NEPS und zeigt Analysemöglichkeiten auf, sowohl hinsichtlich der teilnehmenden Personen als auch hinsichtlich der Merkmale der jeweiligen Lernumwelten.
Hypothalamic inhibition of socio-sexual behaviour by increasing neuroestrogen synthesis
Authors: Ubuka Takayoshi , Haraguchi Shogo , Tobari Yasuko , Narihiro Misato , Ishikawa Kei , Hayashi Takanori , Harada Nobuhiro , Tsutsui Kazuyoshi
Published: January 2014

Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that inhibits gonadotropin secretion and socio-sexual behaviours. Oestrogen (neuroestrogen) synthesized in the brain from androgen by aromatase regulates male socio-sexual behaviours. Here we show that GnIH directly activates aromatase and increases neuroestrogen synthesis in the preoptic area (POA) and inhibits socio-sexual behaviours of male quail. Aromatase activity and neuroestrogen concentration in the POA are low in the morning when the birds are active, but neuroestrogen synthesis gradually increases until the evening when the birds become inactive. Centrally administered GnIH in the morning increases neuroestrogen synthesis in the POA and decreases socio-sexual behaviours. Centrally administered 17β-oestradiol at higher doses also inhibits socio-sexual behaviours in the morning. These results suggest that GnIH inhibits male socio-sexual behaviours by increasing neuroestrogen synthesis beyond its optimum concentration for the expression of socio-sexual behaviours. This is the first demonstration of any hypothalamic neuropeptide that directly regulates neuroestrogen synthesis.