bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of an Alkali Diffusion Barrier and Stain‐Resistant Glass Surface
Authors: Yoldas Bulent E.
Published: April 2014

As it is well known, the structures of silica and soda‐lime‐silica glasses are subjected to alkali ion diffusion. This diffusion can lead to staining of the glass surface, thus detrimentally affecting its optical functions. In this work, an effective alkali diffusion barrier layer is created by boron diffusion into the top 10 to 50‐nm thick layer of glass surface. In this layer, alkali mobility is electrochemically arrested by a coordination change of boron. As a result, the glass surface stays pristinely clear, even under sustained exposure to hot and humid conditions. Structural studies indicate that when three‐coordinated boron diffuses into a pre‐existing glass network, it converts nonbridging oxygens, associated with alkali ions, into bridging oxygens by changing its coordination from 3 to 4. This forces alkali ions to change their bond association from nonbridging oxygens to the charge sphere of boron due to the required charge neutrality. This new bond arrangement immobilizes the alkali ions at these sites. As a result of the alkali ion immobilization, and the reduction in nonbridging oxygens in the network, the glass surface becomes resistant to nucleophillic attack, as well as resistant to stain formation, and crystallization.
Glass–Ceramic Foams from Borosilicate Glass Waste
Authors: Taurino Rosa , Lancellotti Isabella , Barbieri Luisa , Leonelli Cristina
Published: April 2014

In this study, we reported the studies on a glass–ceramic foam with wollastonite and cristobalite micrometric crystals prepared by sintering a borosilicate glass waste with organic binder as foaming agent. The waste glass, coming from the dismantling of washing machine, was characterized by high CaO content and low‐temperature sinterability. The effect of the temperature on the sinter‐crystallization ability of the borosilicate glass waste was followed with thermal analysis, heating microscopy, and electron scanning microscopy (ESEM) observations. Additionally, the effect of temperature on the evolution of crystalline phases and density variation was monitored with XRD and density measurements. The softening started at 800°C and crystallization at 845°C to be completed at 900°C with a linear expansion of 38–40% in the range 850–900°C. Wollastonite and cristobalite were identified as crystalline phases in variable proportions dependently upon temperature. No crack evidence was found at high ESEM magnification even though cristobalite crystals were present. The final products showed a total porosity around 78–79% and an apparent density of about 0.5 g/cm3, in line with common porous closed‐cell glass foams used for thermal insulation.
Self-care behaviour for minor symptoms: can Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Services Use help us to understand it?
Authors: Porteous Terry , Wyke Sally , Hannaford Philip , Bond Christine
Published: April 2014

Objective

To explore whether Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Services Use can aid understanding of self-care behaviour and inform development of interventions to promote self-care for minor illness.

Method

Qualitative interviews were conducted with 24 Scottish participants about their experience and management of minor symptoms normally associated with analgesic use. Synthesised data from the interviews were mapped onto the Behavioral Model.

Key findings

All factors identified as influencing decisions about how to manage the symptoms discussed, mapped onto at least one domain of Andersen's model. Individual characteristics including beliefs, need factors and available resources were associated with health behaviour, including self-care. Outcomes such as perceived health status and consumer satisfaction from previous experience of managing symptoms also appeared to feed back into health behaviour.

Conclusions

The Behavioral Model seems relevant to self-care as well as formal health services. Additional work is needed to explore applicability of the Behavioral Model to different types of symptoms, different modalities of self-care and in countries with different health care systems. Future quantitative studies should establish the relative importance of factors influencing the actions people take to manage minor symptoms to inform future interventions aimed at optimising self-care behaviour.
METAMORPHOLOGY: IN LIEU OF UNIFORMITARIANISM
Authors: BEDNARIK R.G.
Published: April 2014

Summary Since the advent of the discipline of archaeology, its underlying theory has been a particular brand of uniformitarianism: the idea that existing forces and patterns have applied uniformly in the past. This paper proposes the introduction of an alternative unified theory, one that lends itself to falsification and logical quantification. Metamorphology is explained by first reviewing the principles of taphonomic logic, and by then extrapolating them to illuminate the entire gap between the reality of what happened in prehistory, and the record of these events as they are perceived and interpreted by the individual archaeologist. Metamorphology is defined as a refutable, logic‐based theoretical framework that is derived essentially from taphonomic logic. This paper considers some of the relevant theoretical issues.
Pressing the right buttons: Australian case studies in the protection of employee entitlements against corporate insolvency
Authors: ANDERSON Helen
Published: April 2014

Looking at recent cases where employees in Australia managed to salvage their accrued entitlements when their company became insolvent, the author considers the factors which contributed to those successful outcomes. Comparing those examples with cases where workers in similar circumstances were not so fortunate, she shows that the successful protection of entitlements is often a matter of timing, strategic choices, innovative approaches, regulator intervention, union pressure, political expediency or a happy confluence of circumstances. Someone, somewhere, has been “pressing the right buttons”. Lessons will be drawn from the cases considered here, she argues.
AR and SRD5A2 gene mutations in a series of 51 Turkish 46,XY DSD children with a clinical diagnosis of androgen insensitivity
Authors: Akcay T. , Fernandez‐Cancio M. , Turan S. , Güran T. , Audi L. , Bereket A.
Published: April 2014

46,XY disorders of sex development (DSD) are caused by disorders of gonadal development, androgen biosynthesis and receptor (AR) defects. Although, clinical/biochemical features help in distinguishing specific aetiologies, there are overlaps which necessitate molecular analyses for the definitive diagnosis. To test precision of our clinical diagnosis of androgen insensitivity (AIS) by analysing AR and then SRD5A2 genes, patients were recruited at Marmara University Hospital and molecular analyses were performed at Vall d'Hebron Research Institute. Among 101 46,XY DSD patients, 46 index and five siblings (nine complete, 42 partial) with clinical/biochemical data suggestive of AIS and stimulated T/DHT ratio <25 were selected. AR and then SRD5A2 genes were sequenced. We detected AR mutations in 11 patients [seven index and four siblings (22% of all and 15% of index patients)] and SRD5A2 mutations in six [five index and one sibling (12% of all and 11% of index)]. AR mutation detection rate was 6/9 in all CAIS and 4/7 in the index (67 and 57% respectively) and 5/42 in all PAIS and 3/40 in the index (12 and 7.5% respectively). The eight mutations detected in the AR gene were as follows: p.Q58L, p.P392S, p.R609K, p.R775H, p.R856H, p.A871A, p.V890M and p.F892L, with p.A871A and p.F892L being novel. Further six patients had SRD5A2 mutations which were as follows: p.L73WfsX59, p.Y91H, p.R171S and p.G196S, the first being novel. Hormonal data in those with AR mutations, SRD5A2 mutations and no mutations were not statistically different. In conclusion, a significant proportion of children with presumptive diagnosis of AIS has a normal AR gene. The less severe the phenotype, the less likely is the chance of demonstrating a mutation. Furthermore, a significant number of children with presumptive diagnosis of AIS have mutations in SRD5A2 gene and are clinically and biochemically indistinguishable from AIS.
Temperature Dependence of Electric‐induced Light Scattering Performance for PLZT Ceramics
Authors: Zhang Xiaoning , Xia Bin , Zeng Xia , Qiu Pingsun , Cheng Wenxiu , He Xiyun
Published: April 2014

PLZT (7.45/71/29) ceramics with fully dense microstructure and high transmittance were fabricated by a hot‐press sintering method. The effects of temperature on the phase structure, ferroelectric property, and electric‐induced light scattering performance of the PLZT ceramics were examined and analyzed. XRD patterns indicated that the PLZT sample tended to transform from rhombohedral phase to tetragonal phase with the temperature increasing. And the temperature‐dependent ferroelectric hysteresis behavior of the PLZT sample revealed the conversion of a saturated square hysteresis loop to a double‐loop‐like hysteresis loop, accompanied with the significant reduction in coercive field and remnant polarization. Depending on the temperature, the PLZT sample exhibited three different kinds of electric‐induced light scattering performance.
Review: Down Conversion Materials for Solid‐State Lighting
Authors: McKittrick Joanna , Shea‐Rohwer Lauren E.
Published: April 2014

The wavelength down conversion approach to solid‐state lighting (SSL) uses down conversion materials to produce visible light when excited by near‐UV or blue emission from InGaN LEDs. This review discusses two classes of down conversion materials: phosphors and semiconductor quantum dots (QDs). Strong absorption of the excitation wavelength; high luminous efficacy of radiation, which enables white light with a high color rendering index and a low correlated color temperature; high quantum efficiency; and thermal and chemical stability are some of the criteria for down converters used in SSL. This review addresses the challenges in the development of down converters that satisfy all these criteria. We will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of several phosphor compositions for blue and near‐UV LEDs. The use of core/shell architectures to improve the photoluminescence and moisture resistance of phosphors is presented. QDs are another class of down conversion materials for near‐UV and blue LEDs. Strategies to improve the photostability and reduce the thermal quenching of QDs include strain‐graded core/shell interfaces and alloying. We discuss Cd‐containing II–VI QDs, and Cd‐free III–V and I–III–VI QDs and their potential for SSL applications. Finally, a description of different methods to integrate the phosphors and QDs with the LED is given.
The periodontal health component of the Renal Impairment In Secondary Care (RIISC) cohort study: a description of the rationale, methodology and initial baseline results
Authors: Sharma Praveen , Dietrich Thomas , Sidhu Amneet , Vithlani Viren , Rahman Mutahir , Stringer Stephanie , Jesky Mark , Kaur Okdeep , Ferro Charles , Cockwell Paul , Chapple Iain L. C.
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. There is a need to identify novel and modifiable risk factors in such patients. The periodontal component of the Renal Impairment In Secondary Care (RIISC) study aims to evaluate the association between chronic periodontitis and CKD progression.

Methods

The RIISC study is a prospective, observational cohort study of patients with CKD from a renal clinic at a hospital in the West Midlands region of the UK. Patients undergo a periodontal examination and plaque and saliva sampling. To benchmark the oral health status of the RIISC cohort, we compared it to the Adult Dental Health Survey 2009 (ADHS), a representative survey of the oral health of community dwelling adults in the UK.

Results

Of the first 500 patients recruited into the RIISC study, 469 patients underwent a dental examination and 80 (17%) were edentulous. Among dentate subjects, patients within RIISC were significantly more likely to have any (OR 4.0 95% CI 2.7–5.9) or severe (OR 3.8 95% CI 2.5–5.6) periodontitis compared to the ADHS sample.

Conclusion

The prevalence and severity of chronic periodontitis in this cohort of CKD patients is markedly higher than a geographically matched control population.
Development of Kinetic Model Structures for Glutinous Rice Saccharification by Different Enzymes
Authors: Liu Dengfeng , Zhang Hongtao , Xu Baoguo , Tan Jinglu
Published: April 2014

Glutinous rice saccharification was performed with α‐amylase, glucoamylase, a two‐enzyme combination or wheat qu. Experiments were carried out at two locations, with rice from two sources and in different fermentation temperatures. The main products were first identified and then measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Low‐order kinetic model structures (constructs of model with adjustable reaction rates) were derived based on the major chemical reactions brought about by different enzymes. The model structures were then tested for their abilities to capture the main kinetic variations after optimization of reaction rates by a least square algorithm. The model structures were found useful in representing the measured kinetic variations with one exception. The estimated reactions rates correctly reflected the variations observed from the experiments and provided insights into the reaction processes in terms of reaction speeds, dominant variations and primary products. The actions of α‐amylase and wheat qu differed from findings in prior research. The proposed model structures show promise for describing the saccharification process of glutinous rice.

Practical Applications

Rice is routinely hydrolyzed as part of the processes to produce wines, alcohols, amino acids and other products. This research provides a set of model structures that are simple enough for practical use and still capture the main kinetic behaviors of the saccharification process with enzymes often used in industry. The model structures are needed by food process engineers in their efforts to analyze, optimize and develop controls for many industrial processes that involve rice saccharification.
Norfolk QOL‐DN: validation of a patient reported outcome measure in transthyretin familial amyloid polyneuropathy
Authors: Vinik Etta J. , Vinik Aaron I. , Paulson James F. , Merkies Ingemar S. J. , Packman Jeff , Grogan Donna R. , Coelho Teresa
Published: April 2014

The Norfolk Quality of Life‐Diabetic Neuropathy (QOL‐DN) questionnaire is an instrument to assess QOL in diabetic polyneuropathy. The objective of this observational, cross‐sectional study in 61 patients with V30M transthyretin familial amyloid polyneuropathy (TTR‐FAP) and 16 healthy volunteers was to validate the Norfolk QOL‐DN for assessment of QOL in TTR‐FAP. Comparisons were conducted to identify the best items to discriminate disease stages and assess which individual Norfolk domains (symptoms, large fiber, small fiber, autonomic, and activities of daily living) would be most affected by disease stage. Analysis of individual items revealed a significant pattern of discrimination among disease stages (p < 0.001). Total QOL scores increased (indicating worsening) with duration of symptoms, with a steeper increase observed earlier in the course of disease. Significant correlations were observed between each Norfolk domain and other measures of neurological function. Limitations include cross‐sectional study design, low patient numbers in this rare disease, and the ordinal‐based character of the metric used; future areas to explore include item response theory approaches such as Rasch analysis. These results suggest the Norfolk QOL‐DN is a reliable indicator of the impact of disease severity on QOL in patients with TTR‐FAP.
A Prospective Study on Association of Prostatic Calcifications with Sexual Dysfunction in Men with Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CP/CPPS)
Authors: Zhao Zhigang , Xuan Xujun , Zhang Jingwei , He Jun , Zeng Guohua
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a common debilitating condition of unclear etiology. Sexual dysfunction is an important component of the clinical phenotype of CP/CPPS. Patients often have prostatic calcifications, but a link to sexual dysfunction is unknown.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of prostatic calcifications with sexual dysfunction in this condition.

Methods

A total of 358 males with CP/CPPS were consecutively enrolled, and a prospectively maintained database of these patients was analyzed. Calcifications were diagnosed using ultrasound imaging of the prostate. Symptom severity was measured using the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (CPSI). Sexual dysfunction was evaluated using the validated 15-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15) questionnaire and 5-item Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool scales. The variables were compared between patients with prostatic calcifications and those without using the Student's t-test, Wilcoxon unpaired test, or chi-square test.

Main Outcome Measure

Logistic regression models were developed to explore a possible association between prostatic calcifications and sexual dysfunction.

Results

Measurable calcifications in the prostate were found in 175 (48.9%) of the 358 patients. Patients with calcifications were more likely to have higher white blood cell counts or positive bacteria cultures in their prostatic fluid, longer symptoms duration, and lower scores for the total IIEF-15, IIEF-erectile function, and IIEF-intercourse satisfaction domains (P < 0.001 for each). However, the scores for CPSI, premature ejaculation, and IIEF-orgasmic function, IIEF-sexual desire, and IIEF-overall satisfaction domains were identical between men with and without calcifications (P > 0.05 for each). Furthermore, logistic regression analyses revealed that intraprostatic calcification is significantly associated with self-assessed erectile dysfunction (ED) (odds ratio:3.632, 95% confidence interval: 2.405–5.822, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our results showed that prostatic calcifications are significantly associated with the presence of ED in CP/CPPS males.
Impact of Urinary Incontinence on Sexual Functioning in Community-Dwelling Older Women
Authors: Visser Els , de Bock Geertruida H. , Berger Marjolein Y. , Dekker Janny H.
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Knowledge on the sexual health of patients with urinary incontinence in primary care is scarce; therefore, the impact of urinary incontinence on sexual functioning was examined in community-dwelling older women.

Aim

The aim of this study was to provide primary health care professionals with more information on the sexual health of older women with urinary incontinence, which can be used to discuss this sensitive topic during a consultation.

Method

A cross-sectional survey among the 350 women aged ≥55 years participating in a primary care trial on urinary incontinence was conducted.

Main Outcome Measures

Among patients with a partner, sexual problems of the sexually active patients were described as well as reasons for not being sexually active. A multivariate logistic regression model was performed to identify factors that are predictors of sexual activity, and odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated.

Results

Of all participants with a partner, 68% (95% CI: 61–74) were sexually active. Of these, 25% (95% CI: 17–35) felt restricted in (or avoided) sexual activity because of their urinary incontinence. Urine leakage during sexual activity was present in 26% (95% CI: 19–34). The most frequent reason for not being sexually active was a physical problem of their partner (28%, 95% CI: 18–40); only 5% (95%-CI: 2–13) reported that urinary incontinence was a reason for not having sex. Increasing age was the only independent (negative) predictor of sexual activity (OR: 0.95, 95%-CI: 0.90–1.00).

Conclusions

Most of these older women with urinary incontinence were sexually active, if they had a partner. The main reason for not being sexually active was a partner-related problem. Although for only 5% was urinary incontinence the main reason for not having sex, about 25% of the sexually active women reported a negative influence of urine loss on their sex life. This implies that assessing sexual function is relevant in older women with urinary incontinence.
Sociolinguistic Justice in the Schools: Student Researchers as Linguistic Experts
Authors: Bucholtz Mary , Lopez Audrey , Mojarro Allina , Skapoulli Elena , VanderStouwe Chris , Warner‐Garcia Shawn
Published: April 2014

The commitment of sociocultural linguistics to the cause of social justice has been central to the discipline since its foundation. This commitment is nowhere more evident than in the educational domain and particularly in the development of sociolinguistically informed curricula and teacher preparation programs. Such programs help ensure that students who speak politically subordinated linguistic varieties have the same opportunities in classrooms, college, and careers as their standard English‐speaking peers. Informed by previous and current efforts to forge linguistic partnerships with communities, a set of potential goals for those who work toward sociolinguistic justice is proposed. The goals of sociolinguistic justice are then exemplified using a California‐based research and academic outreach program that guides youth of diverse linguistic, ethnoracial, and economic backgrounds to carry out original sociocultural linguistic research in their peer groups, families, and local communities.
Independent mobility of proteins and lipids in the plasma membrane of Escherichia coli
Authors: Nenninger Anja , Mastroianni Giulia , Robson Alexander , Lenn Tchern , Xue Quan , Leake Mark C. , Mullineaux Conrad W.
Published: April 2014

Fluidity is essential for many biological membrane functions. The basis for understanding membrane structure remains the classic Singer‐Nicolson model, in which proteins are embedded within a fluid lipid bilayer and able to diffuse laterally within a sea of lipid. Here we report lipid and protein diffusion in the plasma membrane of live cells of the bacterium Escherichia coli, using Fluorescence Recovery after Photobleaching (FRAP) and Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy to measure lateral diffusion coefficients. Lipid and protein mobility within the membrane were probed by visualizing an artificial fluorescent lipid and a simple model membrane protein consisting of a single membrane‐spanning alpha‐helix with a Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) tag on the cytoplasmic side. The effective viscosity of the lipid bilayer is strongly temperature‐dependent, as indicated by changes in the lipid diffusion coefficient. Surprisingly, the mobility of the model protein was unaffected by changes in the effective viscosity of the bulk lipid, and TIRF microscopy indicates that it clusters in segregated, mobile domains. We suggest that this segregation profoundly influences the physical behaviour of the protein in the membrane, with strong implications for bacterial membrane function and bacterial physiology.
An optimal defense strategy for phenolic glycoside production in Populus trichocarpa – isotope labeling demonstrates secondary metabolite production in growing leaves
Authors: Massad Tara Joy , Trumbore Susan E. , Ganbat Gantsetseg , Reichelt Michael , Unsicker Sybille , Boeckler Andreas , Gleixner Gerd , Gershenzon Jonathan , Ruehlow Steffen
Published: April 2014

Large amounts of carbon are required for plant growth, but young, growing tissues often also have high concentrations of defensive secondary metabolites. Plants' capacity to allocate resources to growth and defense is addressed by the growth‐differentiation balance hypothesis and the optimal defense hypothesis, which make contrasting predictions. Isotope labeling can demonstrate whether defense compounds are synthesized from stored or newly fixed carbon, allowing a detailed examination of these hypotheses.

Populus trichocarpa saplings were pulse‐labeled with 13CO2 at the beginning and end of a growing season, and the 13C signatures of phenolic glycosides (salicinoids), sugars, bulk tissue, and respired CO2 were traced over time. Half of the saplings were also subjected to mechanical damage.

Populus trichocarpa followed an optimal defense strategy, investing 13C in salicinoids in expanding leaves directly after labeling. Salicinoids turned over quickly, and their production continued throughout the season. Salicin was induced by early‐season damage, further demonstrating optimal defense.

Salicinoids appear to be of great value to P. trichocarpa, as they command new C both early and late in the growing season, but their fitness benefits require further study. Export of salicinoids between tissues and biochemical pathways enabling induction also needs research. Nonetheless, the investigation of defense production afforded by isotope labeling lends new insights into plants' ability to grow and defend simultaneously.
Systemic disease sequelae in chronic inflammatory diseases and chronic psychological stress: comparison and pathophysiological model
Authors: Straub Rainer H.
Published: April 2014

In chronic inflammatory diseases (CIDs), the neuroendocrine–immune crosstalk is important to allocate energy‐rich substrates to the activated immune system. Since the immune system can request energy‐rich substrates independent of the rest of the body, I refer to it as the “selfish immune system,” an expression that was taken from the theory of the “selfish brain,” giving the brain a similar position. In CIDs, the theory predicts the appearance of long‐term disease sequelae, such as metabolic syndrome. Since long‐standing energy requirements of the immune system determine disease sequelae, the question arose as to whether chronic psychological stress due to chronic activation of the brain causes similar sequelae. Indeed, there are many similarities; however, there are also differences. A major difference is the behavior of body weight (constant in CIDs versus loss or gain in stress). To explain this discrepancy, a new pathophysiological theory is presented that places inflammation and stress axes in the middle.
Glucocorticoids in juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Malattia Clara , Martini Alberto
Published: April 2014

Although the use of corticosteroids in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is now much more limited owing to the availability of methotrexate and biological agents, there are clinical scenarios where it is still indicated. For example, corticosteroids may be indicated for intraarticular injections to prevent joint deformities, as a “bridge” drug to relieve symptoms in polyarticular disease while waiting for methotrexate and biologics to exert their full therapeutic effects, and in the treatment of chronic iridocyclitis, macrophage activation syndrome, and systemic JIA, although the advent of interleukin (IL)‐1 and IL‐6 blockers has greatly reduced the latter indication.
Lingual lipoma: its diagnosis and management
Authors: Chauhan R. , Ogadako R.M. , Cotsoglou N. , Kennedy R. , Shah N.
Published: April 2014

This article describes the rare occurrence of a lipoma in the tongue together with its presentation, differential diagnosis and options for treatment.
Physiological characterization and genetic modifiers of aberrant root thigmomorphogenesis in mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana MILDEW LOCUS O genes
Authors: BIDZINSKI PRZEMYSLAW , NOIR SANDRA , SHAHI SHERMINEH , REINSTÄDLER ANJA , GRATKOWSKA DOMINIKA MARTA , PANSTRUGA RALPH
Published: April 2014

Root architecture and growth patterns are plant features that are still poorly understood. When grown under in vitro conditions, seedlings with mutations in Arabidopsis thaliana genes MLO4 or MLO11 exhibit aberrant root growth patterns upon contact with hard surfaces, exemplified as tight root spirals. We used a set of physiological assays and genetic tools to characterize this thigmomorphogenic defect in detail. We observed that the mlo4/mlo11‐associated root curling phenotype is not recapitulated in a set of mutants with altered root growth patterns or architecture. We further found that mlo4/mlo11‐conditioned root curling is not dependent upon light and endogenous flavonoids, but is pH‐sensitive and affected by exogenous calcium levels. Based upon the latter two characteristics, mlo4‐associated root coiling appears to be mechanistically different from the natural strong root curvature of the Arabidopsis ecotype Landsberg erecta. Gravistimulation reversibly overrides the aberrant thigmomorphogenesis of mlo4 seedlings. Mutants with dominant negative defects in α‐tubulin modulate the extent and directionality of mlo4/mlo11‐conditioned root coils, whereas mutants defective in polar auxin transport (axr4, aux1) or gravitropism (pgm1) completely suppress the mlo4 root curling phenotype. Our data implicate a joint contribution of calcium signalling, pH regulation, microtubular function, polar auxin transport and gravitropism in root thigmomorphogenesis.
Reliability and validity of Brief Problem Monitor, an abbreviated form of the Child Behavior Checklist
Authors: Piper Brian J. , Gray Hilary M. , Raber Jacob , Birkett Melissa A.
Published: April 2014

Aim

The parent form of the 113‐item Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) is widely utilized by child psychiatrists and psychologists. This report examines the reliability and validity of a recently developed abbreviated version of the CBCL, the Brief Problem Monitor (BPM).

Methods

Caregivers (n = 567) completed the CBCL online and the 19 BPM items were examined separately.

Results

Internal consistency of the BPM was high (Cronbach's alpha = 0.91) and satisfactory for the Internalizing (0.78), Externalizing (0.86), and Attention (0.87) scales. High correlations between the CBCL and BPM were identified for the total score (r = 0.95) as well as the Internalizing (0.86), Externalizing (0.93), and Attention (0.97) scales. The BPM and scales were sensitive and identified significantly higher behavioral and emotional problems among children whose caregiver reported a psychiatric diagnosis of attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, developmental disabilities, or autism spectrum disorders relative to a comparison group that had not been diagnosed with these disorders. BPM ratings also differed by the socioeconomic status and education of the caregiver. Mothers with higher annual incomes rated their children as having 38.8% fewer total problems (Cohen's d = 0.62) as well as 42.8% lower Internalizing (d = 0.53), 44.1% less Externalizing (d = 0.62), and 30.9% decreased Attention (d = 0.39). A similar pattern was evident for maternal education (d = 0.30–0.65).

Conclusion

Overall, these findings provide strong psychometric support for the BPM, although the differences based on the characteristics of the parent indicate that additional information from other sources (e.g., teachers) should be obtained to complement parental reports.
Hemodynamic monitoring of middle cerebral arteries during cognitive tasks performance
Authors: Boban Marina , Črnac Petra , Junaković Anamari , Malojčić Branko
Published: April 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to obtain temporal pattern and hemispheric dominance of blood flow velocity (BFV) changes and to assess suitability of different cognitive tasks for monitoring of BFV changes in the middle cerebral arteries (MCA).

Methods

BFV were recorded simultaneously in MCA during performance of phonemic verbal fluency test (pVFT), Trail Making Tests A and B (TMTA and TMTB) and Stroop tests in 14 healthy, right‐handed volunteers aged 20–26 years.

Results

A significant increase of BFV in both MCA was obtained during performance of all cognitive tasks. Statistically significant lateralization was found during performance of Stroop test with incongruent stimuli, while TMTB was found to have the best activation potential for MCA.

Conclusion

Our findings specify TMTB as the most suitable cognitive test for monitoring of BFV in MCA.
Methodological challenges in studies of bright light therapy to treat sleep disorders in nursing home residents with dementia
Authors: van der Ploeg Eva S. , O'Connor Daniel W.
Published: April 2014

Aim

Numerous studies have explored the effectiveness of bright light therapy as a treatment of sleep disorders in nursing home and long‐stay geriatric hospital residents, most of whom have dementia. A recent Cochrane Collaboration meta‐analysis of 10 selected studies concluded that there was insufficient evidence to assess its therapeutic efficacy as most available studies had methodological problems. We sought to remedy this situation by developing proposals to guide research methods in future studies.

Methods

Based on the literature and our own clinical and research experience, we developed a series of proposals relating to study design, participant selection, light delivery modalities and outcome measures that we believe will maximize the chances of identifying a bright light treatment effect. We then checked adherence to these proposals in all relevant published experimental studies.

Results

Of the 18 studies published in the last two decades that met our selection criteria, only half the studies had selected participants with a sleep disorder. Eleven studies excluded people with severe vision loss; seven included a clinical rating of sleep, and five measured baseline lighting levels. Most checked psychoactive medication prescriptions but few reported changes in prescriptions over the course of the study. Most also checked treatment adherence and included some control for differences in amount of social contact.

Conclusions

Evidence for the effectiveness of bright white light treatment in people residing in nursing homes is equivocal. We anticipate that the quality of this evidence will be improved if researchers refine their study methods and adopt a more uniform approach.
The social acceptability of handheld umbrellas for sun protection
Authors: McMichael Josette R. , Ezirike Jennifer , Veledar Emir , Rice Jessica E. , Chen Suephy C.
Published: April 2014

Purpose

Little is known about handheld umbrella (HU) use for sun protection in the United States. We sought to determine whether women consider the HU a socially acceptable form of sun protection and whether viewing pictures of famous women carrying umbrellas is influential.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional survey study of 382 women. Participants viewed a collage of famous women carrying umbrellas to assess effect on social acceptability.

Results

Twelve percent had used a HU for sun protection. Participants were more likely to use an umbrella after viewing the collage (P < 0.001). The majority would consider umbrella use if recommended by a dermatologist. Independent predictors of social acceptability were age, had not lived in another country, sun protective clothing use and no sunscreen use, while skin color, ethnicity and education were not. Mean rating of social acceptability was an intermediate score of 5.41 (1 = not acceptable, 10 = totally acceptable) and increased to 5.88 postcollage (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Social acceptability of HUs was moderate. Popular media may play a role in whether women view HUs as a socially acceptable form of sun protection. Dermatologists may consider recommending HUs as an adjunct but not replacement for other methods of sun protection.
Floral biology of two Vanilloideae (Orchidaceae) primarily adapted to pollination by euglossine bees
Authors: Pansarin E. R. , Pansarin L. M.
Published: April 2014

Vanilloideae comprises 15 genera distributed worldwide, among which are Vanilla and Epistephium (tribe Vanilleae). Based on field and laboratory investigations, the pollination biology of V. dubia and E. sclerophyllum was analysed. The former was surveyed in a semi‐deciduous mesophytic forest at the biological reserve of Serra do Japi and in a marshy forest at the city of Pradópolis, southeastern Brazil. The latter was examined in rocky outcrop vegetation in the Chapada Diamantina, northeastern Brazil. In the studied populations, the tubular flowers of V. dubia and E. sclerophyllum were pollinated by bees. Pollen was deposited on either their scutellum (V. dubia) or scutum (E. sclerophyllum). The mentum region of V. dubia is dry, whereas that of E. sclerophyllum presents a small quantity of dilute nectar. Flowers of E. sclerophyllum are scentless, while those of V. dubia are odoriferous. Although V. dubia is self‐compatible, it needs a pollinator to produce fruit. In contrast, E. sclerophyllum sets fruit through spontaneous self‐pollination, but biotic pollination also occurs. Both species are primarily adapted to pollination by euglossine bees. Pollination by Euglossina seems to have occurred at least twice during the evolution of Vanilleae. Furthermore, shifts between rewarding and reward‐free flowers and between autogamous and allogamous species have been reported among vanillas.
Latitudinal variation in the degree of crassulacean acid metabolism in Puya chilensis
Authors: Quezada I. M. , Zotz G. , Gianoli E.
Published: April 2014

Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) is a photosynthetic pathway found in many plant species from arid and semiarid environments. Few studies aiming to characterise plant species as CAM or C3 account for inter‐population differences in photosynthetic pathway, often relying on samples taken from herbarium material and/or a single plant or population. This may be especially problematic for species growing under contrasting climate conditions, as is the case for species with a wide geographic range. We used Puya chilensis, a species previously reported as CAM and C3, to study among‐population variation in expression of the CAM pathway within its distribution range, which spans a significant climate gradient. We carried out a wide sampling scheme, including five populations and a combination of analytical methods (quantification of nocturnal acidification and stable isotope measurements). The study populations of P. chilensis encompass the entire latitudinal distribution range, from semi‐arid to temperate oceanic climates. Our results indicate that CAM decreased with latitude. However, even in the southern (wetter) populations, where δ13C values were indicative of C3 metabolism, we found some nocturnal acidification. We stress the value of using two methods along with the use of samples from different populations, as this allows more reliable conclusions on the photosynthetic pathway for ‘probable’ CAM species that face varying climate conditions within their distribution ranges.
Conflicts of Values and Political Forgiveness
Authors: Nieuwenburg Paul
Published: April 2014

Citizens have a right to be governed by officials with an acute awareness of the conflicts between the constitutional values of liberal democracy. Such an awareness is an integral part of a public official's integrity. That is why citizens should have a say in deciding whether to remove from office an official with such integrity. In this article, this type of conflict between constitutional values is translated into the terms of an individual official's decision making with the help of moral theory. This yields two paradoxes: one focusing on the decision maker and the other on the object of his or her decisions: the citizen. These paradoxes lead to the following questions: If running a liberal democratic constitution essentially involves moral complexity, should we not try to have it run by officials with a sensitivity to that complexity? And if officials with that sensitivity are bound to commit moral wrongs because of complexity, do not we owe them something like political forgiveness? The paradoxes are used to formulate conditions for political forgiveness.
Moral Luck and the Problem of the Innocent Attacker
Authors: Statman Daniel
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relation between the right to self‐defense against an innocent attacker and the notion of moral luck. It argues that those who accept the existence of such a right rely on the assumption that mere agency makes a significant moral difference – which is precisely the assumption that underlies the view held by believers in moral luck. Those who believe in the right to self‐defense against innocent attackers are thus committed to the idea of moral luck much more than they usually acknowledge. The paper also argues that the arguments offered in support of moral luck, in particular the one based on the relation between agency and self‐identity, might help to shed light on the rather puzzling above right.
Is Water Different from Biodiversity? Governance Criteria for the Effective Management of Transboundary Resources
Authors: Lim Michelle
Published: April 2014

Effective law for complex environmental issues requires a combination of sound policy, sophisticated doctrinal scholarship and effective institutional arrangements that suit the social and economic context. Together, these elements create the basis for good resource governance. This article sets out criteria that define an effective governance framework for transboundary resource management. To advance legal scholarship, access to such criteria can help frame comprehensive strategies for more effective environmental law. The article extends previously developed criteria for the effective transboundary conservation of terrestrial biodiversity to transboundary water resource governance. It discusses the relative ease with which each of the criteria can be fulfilled in the management of the different resources and identifies areas for cross‐sectoral learning. The article suggests that the principles set out in the criteria can also guide the management of other shared resources.
A comparison of adverse reaction rates for PAS C versus plasma platelet units
Authors: Cohn Claudia S. , Stubbs James , Schwartz Joseph , Francis Richard , Goss Cheryl , Cushing Melissa , Shaz Beth , Mair David , Brantigan Barbara , Heaton W. Andrew
Published: April 2014

Background

Plasma constituents have been implicated in some types of platelet (PLT) transfusion reactions. Leukoreduced apheresis PLTs stored in InterSol have 65% less plasma than apheresis PLTs stored in 100% plasma (PPs). This study compared transfusion reaction rates in InterSol PLTs (PLT additive solution [PAS] C) versus PPs.

Study Design and Methods

The study design was an open‐label, nonrandomized retrospective review. Statistical methods were applied to substantiate noninferiority and superiority of PAS C compared to PP in terms of transfusion reaction rates. Adverse reactions (ARs) were categorized using the Biovigilance Component of the National Healthcare Safety Network. Active surveillance was used to monitor all transfusions, both with ARs and without ARs.

Results

A total of 14,005 transfusions from six study sites were included, with 9845 PP transfusions given to 2202 patients and 4160 PAS C to 1444 patients. A total of 165 ARs were reported. Percentages of transfusions with ARs were 1.37% for PPs, 0.55% for PAS C, and 1.13% overall. The relative risk (RR) for PAS C versus PPs was calculated as 0.403 with an upper confidence limit (UCL) of 0.663. Overall, ARs with the highest incidence were allergic transfusion reactions (ATRs) and febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reactions (FNHTRs), at 0.66 and 0.40% of total transfusions reported, respectively. The relative risks (UCLs) for ATRs and FNHTRs, respectively, were 0.350 (0.686) and 0.336 (0.827).

Conclusions

PAS C PLTs were statistically superior and noninferior to PPs with respect to the transfusion‐related AR rate. PAS C noninferiority and superiority were also demonstrated for ATRs and FNHTRs, separately.
Comparison of a new microscopic system for the measurement of residual leucocytes in apheresis platelets with flow cytometry and manual counting
Authors: Strobel J. , Antos U. , Zimmermann R. , Eckstein R. , Zingsem J.
Published: April 2014

Background and Objectives

Since 2001, all blood components in Germany must be leucocyte depleted. Recently, a new method for quality control of depletion was introduced. Our study aimed at the validation of the method for routine use in apheresis platelet concentrates.

Materials and Methods

We compared the new ADAM‐rWBC device with manual counting in the Nageotte chamber and flow cytometry, two standard methods, by measuring residual leucocytes in 40 units of apheresis platelet concentrates and in six geometrical dilution series.

Results

Cell counts of residual leucocytes in the 40 units were below 106 cells per component with all methods, although mean cell counts were approximately 5 and 6 times higher in flow cytometry and ADAM‐rWBC, respectively, compared to the Nageotte chamber. No unit with <106 leucocytes was regarded as contaminated. The dilution series showed acceptable accuracy, especially in the range around the cut‐off (approximately 4·5 cells/μl in components with a volume of 220 ml) for regarding a concentrate as contaminated with leucocytes. No sample spiked with more than 4·5 cells/μl was counted as having less.

Conclusion

In comparison with manual counting and flow cytometry, the ADAM‐rWBC device performed equally. The method is suitable for routine screening of leucocyte contamination of apheresis platelets.
Wieferich pairs and Barker sequences, II
Authors: Borwein Peter , Mossinghoff Michael J.
Published: April 2014

We show that if a Barker sequence of length $n>13$ exists, then either n $=$ 3 979 201 339 721 749 133 016 171 583 224 100, or $n > 4\cdot 10^{33}$. This improves the lower bound on the length of a long Barker sequence by a factor of nearly $2000$. We also obtain eighteen additional integers $n<10^{50}$ that cannot be ruled out as the length of a Barker sequence, and find more than 237 000 additional candidates $n<10^{100}$. These results are obtained by completing extensive searches for Wieferich prime pairs and using them, together with a number of arithmetic restrictions on $n$, to construct qualifying integers below a given bound. We also report on some updated computations regarding open cases of the circulant Hadamard matrix problem.
Computing fundamental domains for the Bruhat–Tits tree for , -adic automorphic forms, and the canonical embedding of Shimura curves
Authors: Franc Cameron , Masdeu Marc
Published: April 2014

We describe algorithms that allow the computation of fundamental domains in the Bruhat–Tits tree for the action of discrete groups arising from quaternion algebras. These algorithms are used to compute spaces of rigid modular forms of arbitrary even weight, and we explain how to evaluate such forms to high precision using overconvergent methods. Finally, these algorithms are applied to the calculation of conjectural equations for the canonical embedding of p-adically uniformizable rational Shimura curves. We conclude with an example in the case of a genus 4 Shimura curve.
Induction of Antigen-Specific Immunity with a Vaccine Targeting NY-ESO-1 to the Dendritic Cell Receptor DEC-205
Authors: Dhodapkar Madhav V. , Sznol Mario , Zhao Biwei , Wang Ding , Carvajal Richard D. , Keohan Mary L. , Chuang Ellen , Sanborn Rachel E. , Lutzky Jose , Powderly John , Kluger Harriet , Tejwani Sheela , Green Jennifer , Ramakrishna Venky , Crocker Andrea , Vitale Laura , Yellin Michael , Davis Thomas , Keler Tibor
Published: April 2014

Dendritic cell targeting safely leads to integrated humoral and cellular immunity when combined with TLR agonists in cancer patients.
Fibronectin
EDA
Promotes Chronic Cutaneous Fibrosis Through Toll-Like Receptor Signaling
Authors: Bhattacharyya Swati , Tamaki Zenshiro , Wang Wenxia , Hinchcliff Monique , Hoover Paul , Getsios Spiro , White Eric S. , Varga John
Published: April 2014

Fibronectin
EDA
is an endogenous TLR4 ligand in scleroderma.