bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
γ‐Linolenic acid production by Arthrospira platensis using different carbon sources
Authors: Golmakani Mohammad‐Taghi , Rezaei Karamatollah , Mazidi Sara , Razavi Seyyed Hadi
Published: December 2011

Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) is an important source of pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals such as γ‐linolenic acid (GLnA). Effects of several parameters including carbon source (glucose, ethanol, and acetic acid), type of addition (batch or fed‐batch), light intensity (2.0, 3.5, and 5.0 klx) were investigated in the mixotrophic cultivation of Spirulina (using both light and carbon source). The obtained Spirulina was analyzed in terms of biomass, lipid, and GLnA production. Compared to photoautotrophic conditions (i.e., when using light without external carbon source), the biomass concentration was found to be higher when Spirulina was grown mixotrophically. Similarly, the lipid content as well as the GLnA was found at higher levels when using mixotrophic conditions. Effects of different light intensities under photoautotrophic and mixotrophic conditions were studied. The highest final biomass concentration (2.17 g/L), lipid yield of culture medium (128 mg/L), and GLnA yield of the culture medium (32 mg/L) were obtained at the highest light intensity of 5.0 klx. It was also demonstrated that the biomass, lipid, and GLnA production under different light intensities, using ethanol and acetic acid, could be comparable and even better than those of glucose.

Practical applications: Spirulina is an attractive source of functional components such as γ‐linolenic acid (GLnA). Results of this study suggest that carbon sources such as ethanol and acetic acid can also be used for the production of GLnA by Spirulina under mixotrophic cultivation (using light and external carbon source).
The Mechanism of the Stereospecific Intramolecular Arylation of Lithiated Ureas: The Role of Li+ Probed by Electronic Structure Calculations, and by NMR and IR Spectroscopy
Authors: Grainger Damian M. , Campbell Smith Alison , Vincent Mark A. , Hillier Ian H. , Wheatley Andrew E. H. , Clayden Jonathan
Published: December 2011

In situ NMR and IR spectroscopy studies were carried out on the rearrangement of lithiated N‐benzyl‐N′‐aryl ureas, which involves N‐to‐C aryl transfer with retention of configuration. The IR spectroscopy studies revealed that initial benzylic lithiation was followed by migration of the aryl ring to yield a lithiated urea product without a detectable dearomatised intermediate. Similar results were obtained by NMR spectroscopy, but when 1,3‐dimethyl‐3,4,5,6‐tetrahydro‐2(1H)‐pyrimidinone (DMPU) was added to the solvent mixture, a transient dearomatised intermediate was detectable during migration of a 1‐naphthyl ring. DFT calculations highlight the importance of coordinated lithium cations, and their migration from one site to another, in the rearrangement. Rearrangement is initiated by migration of a solvated lithium cation from the anionic centre of the starting organolithium to a site close the adjacent phenyl ring, allowing retentive attack of the anionic centre on the more remote ring with movement of the solvated lithium cation to the remote ring stabilising the developing negative charge. A short‐lived spirocyclic intermediate is predicted to undergo elimination by loss of the urea substituent, completing the migration. Coordination of the carbonyl group to a second solvated lithium cation appears to be essential for this step. Calculated shifts for this intermediate when a 1‐naphthyl ring is migrating are consistent with the transient signals observed by NMR spectroscopy. Alternative pathways involving (1) invertive migration and (2) attack on the urea C=O group were also calculated and were found to require significantly higher energy transition states.
Recent approaches in sensitive enantioseparations by CE
Authors: Sánchez‐Hernández Laura , Castro‐Puyana María , Marina María Luisa , Crego Antonio L.
Published: December 2011

The latest strategies and instrumental improvements for enhancing the detection sensitivity in chiral analysis by CE are reviewed in this work. Following the previous reviews by García‐Ruiz et al. (Electrophoresis 2006, 27, 195–212) and Sánchez‐Hernández et al. (Electrophoresis 2008, 29, 237–251; Electrophoresis 2010, 31, 28–43), this review includes those papers that were published during the period from June 2009 to May 2011. These works describe the use of offline and online sample treatment techniques, online sample preconcentration techniques based on electrophoretic principles, and alternative detection systems to UV–Vis to increase the detection sensitivity. The application of the above‐mentioned strategies, either alone or combined, to improve the sensitivity in the enantiomeric analysis of a broad range of samples, such as pharmaceutical, biological, food and environmental samples, enables to decrease the limits of detection up to 10−12 M. The use of microchips to achieve sensitive chiral separations is also discussed.
Cyclic test of a coupled steel plate shear wall substructure
Authors: Li Chao‐Hsien , Tsai Keh‐Chyuan , Chang Jing‐Tang , Lin Chih‐Han , Chen Jia‐Chian , Lin Te‐Hung , Chen Pei‐Ching
Published: December 2011

Coupled steel plate shear wall (C‐SPSW) consists of two or more steel plate shear walls interconnected by coupling beams at the floor levels. In this study, a six‐story C‐SPSW prototype building was designed. A 40% scale C‐SPSW specimen, which is representative of the bottom two‐and‐half‐story substructure of the prototype, was cyclically tested using Multi‐Axial Testing System at the National Center for Research on Earthquake Engineering in 2009. In addition to a constant vertical force representing the gravity load effects, cyclic increasing displacements and the corresponding overturning moments transmitted from the upper stories were computed online and simultaneously applied on the substructural specimen. This paper firstly introduces the designs of the prototype C‐SPSW and the test specimen. Then, the test results and the numerical simulation are discussed in detail. Test results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed column capacity design method, which aims at limiting the plastic hinge formation within the bottom quarter height of the bottom column. Test and analytical results suggest that the coupling beam rotational demands can be estimated as the design story drifts when the formation of desirable plastic mechanism of the C‐SPSW is expected. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Next generation analytic tools for large scale genetic epidemiology studies of complex diseases
Authors: Mechanic Leah E. , Chen Huann‐Sheng , Amos Christopher I. , Chatterjee Nilanjan , Cox Nancy J. , Divi Rao L. , Fan Ruzong , Harris Emily L. , Jacobs Kevin , Kraft Peter , Leal Suzanne M. , McAllister Kimberly , Moore Jason H. , Paltoo Dina N. , Province Michael A. , Ramos Erin M. , Ritchie Marylyn D. , Roeder Kathryn , Schaid Daniel J. , Stephens Matthew , Thomas Duncan C. , Weinberg Clarice R. , Witte John S. , Zhang Shunpu , Zöllner Sebastian , Feuer Eric J. , Gillanders Elizabeth M.
Published: December 2011

Over the past several years, genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have succeeded in identifying hundreds of genetic markers associated with common diseases. However, most of these markers confer relatively small increments of risk and explain only a small proportion of familial clustering. To identify obstacles to future progress in genetic epidemiology research and provide recommendations to NIH for overcoming these barriers, the National Cancer Institute sponsored a workshop entitled “Next Generation Analytic Tools for Large‐Scale Genetic Epidemiology Studies of Complex Diseases” on September 15–16, 2010. The goal of the workshop was to facilitate discussions on (1) statistical strategies and methods to efficiently identify genetic and environmental factors contributing to the risk of complex disease; and (2) how to develop, apply, and evaluate these strategies for the design, analysis, and interpretation of large‐scale complex disease association studies in order to guide NIH in setting the future agenda in this area of research. The workshop was organized as a series of short presentations covering scientific (gene‐gene and gene‐environment interaction, complex phenotypes, and rare variants and next generation sequencing) and methodological (simulation modeling and computational resources and data management) topic areas. Specific needs to advance the field were identified during each session and are summarized.Genet. Epidemiol. 36 : 22–35, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Astrocyte stellation, a process dependent on Rac1 is sustained by the regulated exocytosis of enlargeosomes
Authors: Racchetti Gabriella , D'Alessandro Rosalba , Meldolesi Jacopo
Published: December 2011

Cultured astrocytes exhibit a flat/epitelioid phenotype much different from the star‐like phenotype of tissue astrocytes. Upon exposure to treatments that affect the small GTPase Rho and/or its effector ROCK, however, flat astrocytes undergo stellation, with restructuring of cytoskeleton and outgrowth of processes with lamellipodia, assuming a phenotype closer to that exhibited in situ. The mechanisms of this change are known only in part. Using the ROCK blocker drug Y27632, which induces rapid (tens of min), dose‐dependent and reversible stellations, we focused on two specific aspects of the process: its dependence on small GTPases and the large surface expansion of the cells. Contrary to previous reports, we found stellation to be governed by the small G protein Rac1, up to disappearance of the process when Rac1 was downregulated or blocked by a specific drug. In contrast cdc42, the other G‐protein often involved in phenotype changes, appeared not involved. The surface expansion concomitant to cytoskeleton restructuring, also dependent on Rac1, was found to be at least partially sustained by the exocytosis of enlargeosomes, small vesicles distinct from classical cell organelles, which are abundant in astrocytes. Exhaustion of stellation induced by repeated administrations of Y27632 correlated with the decrease of the enlargeosome pool. A whole‐cell process like stellation of cultured astrocytes might be irrelevant in the brain tissue. However, local restructuring of the cytoskeleton coordinate with surface expansion, occurring at critical cell sites and sustained by mechanisms analogous to those of stellation, might be of importance in both astrocyte physiology and pathology. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Equipping Adolescent English Learners for Academic Achievement: An Interview With Susana Dutro and Ellen Levy
Authors: Dutro Susana , Levy Ellen , Moore David W.
Published: December 2011

Susana Dutro and Ellen Levy are leaders of E.L. Achieve, an organization dedicated to assisting educators in equipping English learners for academic achievement. They see adolescent English learners regularly confronting the challenge of developing the language needed to fully participate in middle and high school classrooms. Their approach to helping learners meet this challenge involves systematic, proficiency‐leveled instruction in standard English along with explicit instruction in the discipline‐specific language of core content areas. They provide numerous structured opportunities with oral language to enable English learners to develop and express sophisticated thinking. When implementing school‐wide changes, they move from prominent to supportive roles as teachers and administrators assume control of the initiative. Implementing a shared vision of high quality language instruction for all adolescent English learners is seen as the most important step educators can take to best serve these youth.
Protective effects of apocynin on cisplatin‐induced ototoxicity in an auditory cell line and in zebrafish
Authors: Choi June , Im Gi Jung , Chang Jiwon , Chae Sung Won , Lee Seung Hoon , Kwon Soon‐Young , Chung Ah‐Young , Park Hae‐Chul , Jung Hak Hyun
Published: December 2011

Cisplatin is a very effective anticancer drug and generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as superoxide anions that can deplete antioxidant protective molecules in the cochlea. These processes result in the death of cochlear hair cells by induction of apoptosis. Apocynin, which is used as a specific nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase inhibitor, has a preventive effect for intracellular ROS generation. In this study, the effect of apocynin was investigated in a cochlear organ of Corti‐derived cell line, HEI‐OC1 cells, and in transgenic zebrafish (Brn3C: EGFP). To investigate the protective effects of apocynin, HEI‐OC1 cells were treated with various concentrations of apocynin and a 20 µm concentration of cisplatin, simultaneously. An in vivo study of transgenic zebrafish (Brn3C: EGFP) was used to investigate the protective effects of apocynin on cisplatin‐induced hair cell death. In an in vitro study, apocynin appeared to protect against cisplatin‐induced apoptotic features on Hoechst 33258 staining in the HEI‐OC1 cells. Treatment of the HEI‐OC1 cells with 100 µm of apocynin, significantly decreased caspase‐3 activity. Treatment of the cells with a 100 µm concentration of apocynin and a 20 µm concentration of cisplatin significantly decreased the intracellular ROS production. In the in vivo study, apocynin significantly decreased the TUNEL reaction and prevented cisplatin‐induced hair cell loss of the neuromasts in the transgenic zebrafish at low concentrations (125 and 250 µm). These findings suggest that apocynin has antioxidative effects and prevents cisplatin‐induced apoptotic cell death in HEI‐OC1 cells as well as in zebrafish. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A review of poisonous plants that cause reproductive failure and malformations in the ruminants of Brazil
Authors: Riet‐Correa Franklin , Medeiros Rosane M. T. , Schild Ana Lucia
Published: December 2011

The objective of this review is to provide a report on toxic plants causing reproductive problems in ruminants in Brazil. Aspidosperma pyrifolium causes abortion or stillbirth in goats, as well as most likely in sheep and cattle, in the semiarid regions of Northeastern Brazil. Intoxications by Ateleia glazioveana, Tetrapterys acutifolia and T. multiglandulosa result in abortion and neonatal mortality in cattle and sheep, and the same signs have been experimentally observed in goats. These three plants can also cause cardiac fibrosis and a nervous disease with spongiosis of the central nervous system. Other plants known to cause abortion include Enterolobium contortisiliquum, E. gummiferum, Stryphnodendron coriaceum, S. obovatum and S. fissuratum. These plants can also cause digestive signs and photosensitization. Abortions have been reported in animals intoxicated by nitrates and nitrites as well. Infertility, abortions and the birth of weak offspring have been reported in animals intoxicated by plants containing swainsonine, including Ipomoea spp., Turbina cordata and Sida carpinifolia. Trifolium subterraneum causes estrogenism in cattle. Mimosa tenuiflora and, most likely, M. ophthalmocentra cause malformations and embryonic mortality in goats, sheep and cattle in the semiarid regions of Northeastern Brazil. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular mechanism of HIV‐1 integrase–vDNA interactions and strand transfer inhibitor action: A molecular modeling perspective
Authors: Xue Weiwei , Liu Huanxiang , Yao Xiaojun
Published: December 2011

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) integrase (IN) is an essential enzyme for splicing a viral DNA (vDNA) replica of its genome into host cell chromosomal DNA (hDNA) and has been recently recognized as a promising therapeutic target for developing anti‐AIDS agents. The interaction between HIV‐1 IN and vDNA plays an important role in the integration process of the virus. However, a detailed understanding about the mechanism of this interactions as well as the action of the anti‐HIV drug raltegravir (RAL, approved by FDA in 2007) targeting HIV‐1 IN in the inhibition of the vDNA strand transfer is still absent. In the present work, a molecular modeling study by combining homology modeling, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with molecular mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann surface area (MM‐PBSA), and molecular mechanics Generalized‐Born surface area (MM‐GBSA) calculations was performed to investigate the molecular mechanism of HIV‐1 IN–vDNA interactions and the inhibition action of vDNA strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) RAL. The structural analysis showed that RAL did not influence the interaction between vDNA and HIV‐1 IN, but rather targeted a special conformation of HIV‐1 IN to compete with host DNA and block the function of HIV‐1 IN by forcing the 3′‐OH of the terminal A17 nucleotide away from the three catalytic residues (Asp64, Asp116, and Glu152) and two Mg2+ ions. Thus, the obtained results could be helpful for understanding of the integration process of the HIV‐1 virus and provide some new clues for the rational design and discovery of potential compounds that would specifically block HIV‐1 virus replication. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011
Effects of mindfulness‐based stress reduction on emotional experience and expression: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Robins Clive J. , Keng Shian‐Ling , Ekblad Andrew G. , Brantley Jeffrey G.
Published: December 2011

Objectives: Mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR) has been found to reduce psychological distress and improve psychological adjustment in medical, psychiatric, and nonclinical samples. We examined its effects on several processes, attitudes, and behavior patterns related to emotion regulation. Design: Fifty‐six adults were randomly assigned to MBSR or to a waiting list (WL). Results: Compared with WL completers (n = 21), MBSR completers (n = 20) reported significantly greater increases in trait mindfulness and decreases in absent‐mindedness, greater increases in self‐compassion, and decreases in fear of emotions, suppression of anger, aggressive anger expression, worry, and difficulties regulating emotions. The WL group subsequently received MBSR, and the two groups combined showed significant changes on all of these variables from pre‐MBSR to post‐MBSR, and on all except the 2 anger variables from pre‐test to 2‐month follow‐up, as well as significant reductions in rumination. Conclusion: An 8‐week mindfulness training program might increase mindful awareness in daily life and have beneficial impact on clinically relevant emotion regulation processes. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 68:1–15, 2011.
Assessment of carotid stenosis using three‐dimensional T2‐weighted dark blood imaging: Initial experience
Authors: Mihai Georgeta , Winner Marshall W. , Raman Subha V. , Rajagopalan Sanjay , Simonetti Orlando P. , Chung Yiu‐Cho
Published: December 2011

Purpose:

To evaluate the use of a T2‐weighted SPACE sequence (T2w‐SPACE) to assess carotid stenosis via several methods and compare its performance with contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (ceMRA).

Materials and Methods:

Fifteen patients with carotid atherosclerosis underwent dark blood (DB)‐MRI using a 3D turbo spin echo with variable flip angles sequence (T2w‐SPACE) and ceMRA. Images were coregistered and evaluated by two observers. Comparisons were made for luminal diameter, luminal area, degree of luminal stenosis (NASCET: North American Symptomatic Endarterectomy Trial; ECST: European Carotid Surgery Trial, and area stenosis), and vessel wall area. Degree of NASCET stenosis was clinically classified as mild (<50%), moderate (50%–69%), or severe (>69%).

Results:

Excellent agreement was seen between ceMRA and T2w‐SPACE and between observers for assessment of lumen diameter, lumen area, vessel wall area, and degree of NASCET stenosis (r > 0.80, P < 0.001). ECST stenosis was consistently higher than NASCET stenosis (48 ± 14% vs. 24 ± 22%, P < 0.001). Area stenosis (72 ± 2%) was significantly higher (P < 0.001) than both ESCT and NASCET stenosis.

Conclusion:

DB‐MRI of carotid arteries using T2w‐SPACE is clinically feasible. It provides accurate measurements of lumen size and degree of stenosis in comparison with ceMRA and offers a more reproducible measure of ECST stenosis than ceMRA. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;449‐455. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Erythropoietin augments bone formation in a rabbit posterolateral spinal fusion model
Authors: Rölfing Jan Hendrik Duedal , Bendtsen Michael , Jensen Jonas , Stiehler Maik , Foldager Casper Bindzus , Hellfritzsch Michel Bach , Bünger Cody
Published: December 2011

We tested the hypothesis that erythropoietin (EPO) enhances bone formation after posterolateral spinal fusion (PLF) in a rabbit model. Thirty‐four adult rabbits underwent posterolateral intertransverse arthrodesis at the L5–L6 level using 2.0 g autograft per side. The animals were randomly divided into two groups receiving subcutaneous daily injections of either EPO or saline for 20 days. Treatment commenced 2 days preoperatively. Hemoglobin was monitored at baseline and 2, 4, and 6 weeks after fusion surgery. After euthanasia 6 weeks postoperatively, manual palpation, radiographic, and histomorphometric examinations were performed. Bone volume of the fusion mass was estimated by CT after 6 weeks. EPO increased bone fusion volume to 3.85 ccm (3.66–4.05) compared with 3.26 ccm (2.97–3.55) in the control group (p < 0.01). EPO treatment improved vascularization of the fusion mass and increased hemoglobin levels (p < 0.01). Fusion rate tended to be higher in the EPO group based on manual palpation, CT, and radiographic examinations. For the first time EPO has shown to augment bone formation after autograft PLF in a rabbit model. Increased vascularization provides a partial explanation for the efficacy of EPO as a bone autograft enhancer. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1083–1088, 2012
How a Sphagnum fuscum‐dominated bog changed into a calcareous fen: the unique Holocene history of a Slovak spring‐fed mire
Authors: Hájková Petra , Grootjans Ab , Lamentowicz Mariusz , Rybníčková Eliška , Madaras Mikuláš , Opravilová Věra , Michaelis Dierk , Hájek Michal , Joosten Hans , Wołejko Lesław
Published: December 2011

In general, mires develop by autogenic succession from more groundwater‐fed to more rainwater‐fed. This study from a calcareous mire in the West Carpathians (Slovakia) describes a similar development in the Early Holocene, followed by a reverse development in the Middle and Late Holocene. Pollen, macrofossil and testate amoeba analyses show that the site started as a minerotrophic open fen woodland. After 10 700 cal a BP autogenic succession led to the accumulation of at least 1 m of Sphagnum fuscum peat. Around 9000 cal a BP, as climate could no longer sustain a stable water regime, the bog desiccated and a fire broke out. The fire removed part of the peat layer and as a consequence relative water levels rose, leading to the establishment of a wet minerotrophic swamp carr with Thelypteris palustris, Equisetum sp. and Alnus sp. with extremely slow peat accumulation. After 600 cal a BP, rapid peat accumulation with calcareous tufa formation resumed as a result of anthropogenic deforestation and hydrological changes in the catchment and resulting increased groundwater discharge. At present the mire still hosts a wealth of relict and endangered plant and animal species typical of calcareous fens and fen meadows. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extreme events as drivers of early human behaviour in Africa? The case for variability, not catastrophic drought
Authors: Thomas David S. G. , Burrough Sallie L. , Parker Adrian G.
Published: December 2011

Extreme Late Quaternary climatic events, sometimes of considerable continental extent, are being proposed as major contributors to ancestral human behaviour, particularly migration, in Africa. Most recently, a catastrophic drought in the Afro‐Asian monsoon region has been proposed for 16 000–17 000 years ago, driven by global impacts of the Heinrich event 1 (H1), with potentially significant consequences for Palaeolithic cultures. We provide a new analysis of the assertion and find, on examination of a wide set of palaeoenvironmental records, that the scale and extent of the proposed drought is not supported. While some parts of the African tropics, close to the equator, do appear dry at this time, data for the tropics as a whole suggest markedly variable terrestrial conditions, with some environmental systems experiencing very positive hydrological excursions during H1. We contend that in the quest for evidence of climate drivers of ancestral human behaviour, the variability associated with spatially and temporally complex climatic conditions is a significant factor in itself. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Grizzly bear population vital rates and trend in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem, Montana
Authors: Mace Richard D. , Carney Daniel W. , Chilton‐Radandt Tonya , Courville Stacy A. , Haroldson Mark A. , Harris Richard B. , Jonkel James , Mclellan Bruce , Madel Michael , Manley Timothy L. , Schwartz Charles C. , Servheen Christopher , Stenhouse Gordon , Waller John S. , Wenum Erik
Published: December 2011

We estimated grizzly bear (Ursus arctos) population vital rates and trend for the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE), Montana, between 2004 and 2009 by following radio‐collared females and observing their fate and reproductive performance. Our estimates of dependent cub and yearling survival were 0.612 (95% CI = 0.300–0.818) and 0.682 (95% CI = 0.258–0.898). Our estimates of subadult and adult female survival were 0.852 (95% CI = 0.628–0.951) and 0.952 (95% CI = 0.892–0.980). From visual observations, we estimated a mean litter size of 2.00 cubs/litter. Accounting for cub mortality prior to the first observations of litters in spring, our adjusted mean litter size was 2.27 cubs/litter. We estimated the probabilities of females transitioning from one reproductive state to another between years. Using the stable state probability of 0.322 (95% CI = 0.262–0.382) for females with cub litters, our adjusted fecundity estimate (mx) was 0.367 (95% CI = 0.273–0.461). Using our derived rates, we estimated that the population grew at a mean annual rate of approximately 3% (λ = 1.0306, 95% CI = 0.928–1.102), and 71.5% of 10,000 Monte Carlo simulations produced estimates of λ > 1.0. Our results indicate an increasing population trend of grizzly bears in the NCDE. Coupled with concurrent studies of population size, we estimate that over 1,000 grizzly bears reside in and adjacent to this recovery area. We suggest that monitoring of population trend and other vital rates using radioed females be continued. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Deer and elk hunter recruitment, retention, and participation trends in Montana
Authors: Gude Justin A. , Cunningham Julie A. , Herbert Jeffrey T. , Baumeister Thomas
Published: December 2011

Big game hunting is the most popular type of hunting in the United States, and deer and elk hunting are the most popular type of hunting in Montana. Similar to other states, deer and elk hunting also generates most of the revenue spent on wildlife conservation by the state of Montana. Although nationwide trends indicate a concerning decline in hunter participation, the trends in license sales and hunter participation within most states have not received as much attention. We investigated trends in resident deer and elk license sales in Montana using existing licensing databases. We then estimated hunter recruitment, hunter participation, and license purchasing probabilities using hunter education and licensing databases. We employed a multi‐state mark–recapture model and 248,819 records of deer and elk license purchasing habits for individual Montana residents during 2002–2007. We used matrix population models to examine the relative influence of these parameters on trends in license sales and hunter participation. Resident deer and elk license sales increased 4% in Montana during 2002–2007. We found that males had greater recruitment rates, retention rates, and license purchasing probabilities than females, and that young adults had lesser license purchasing probabilities than other age classes. Based on analyses of matrix population models, trends in license sales in Montana are most influenced by middle‐aged and baby boomer male license purchase probabilities. Trends in hunter participation are positively influenced by recruitment and retention in all male age classes, with the smallest predicted effects arising from recruitment of young adult males. Our results suggest that a focus on older age class males with programs designed to increase hunter recruitment, retention, and license purchase probabilities may have similar or larger effects on trends in license sales and hunter participation in Montana than programs directed at youth. Our analyses also provide a framework by which trends in hunter recruitment, retention, and license purchasing habits can be objectively quantified in order to inform and evaluate hunter recruitment, retention, and license purchase habit programs. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Habitat modeling used to predict relative abundance of bobcats in Iowa
Authors: Linde Stephanie A. , Roberts Steven D. , Gosselink Todd E. , Clark William R.
Published: December 2011

We combined observations of bobcats (Lynx rufus) from bowhunters with remotely‐sensed data to build models that describe habitat and relative abundance of this species in the agricultural landscape of Iowa, USA. We calculated landscape composition and configuration from publicly available land cover, census, road, hydrologic, and elevation data. We used multiple regression models to examine county‐level associations between several explanatory variables and relative abundance of bobcats reported by surveyed bowhunters in each county. The most influential explanatory variables in the models were metrics associated with the presence of grassland, including Conservation Reserve, along with configuration of this perennial habitat with forests, although human population density and abundance of eastern cottontails (Sylvilagus floridanus) also correlated with abundance of bobcats. Validation of predictions against 3 years of independent data provided confidence in the models, with 66% of predictions within 1 bobcat/1,000 hunter‐hours and 95% within 5 bobcats/1,000 hunter‐hours of observed values. Once we accounted for landscape differences, no residual spatial trend was evident, despite relatively recent bobcat recolonization of Iowa. Models suggested that future range expansion of the bobcat population may be possible in some northern Iowa counties where habitat composition is similar to counties in southern Iowa where bobcats are abundant. Results from the county‐level model have been useful to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources in evaluating the expansion of this once rare species and for delineating harvest opportunities. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Thyroid disease and compressive symptoms
Authors: Banks Caroline A. , Ayers Christopher M. , Hornig Joshua D. , Lentsch Eric J. , Day Terry A. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Gillespie M. Boyd
Published: December 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Compressive symptoms are common in thyroid disease, but few studies have focused on the presence, associated factors, and etiology of compressive symptoms.

Study Design:

Retrospective review.

Methods:

Patients who underwent thyroidectomy from 2005 through 2009 were reviewed. The data included demographics, indication for surgery, compressive symptoms, complications, diagnosis, volume of thyroid gland, presence of inflammation, and follow‐up.

Results:

Three hundred thirty‐three patients were identified. The mean age was 51 years, and 82% were female. Fifty‐two percent (n = 172) of patients experienced compressive symptoms preoperatively, including dysphagia (n = 131) and shortness of breath (n = 83). Twenty‐six percent (n = 86) of patients presented with voice changes, and 8% (n = 27) complained of odynophagia. Postoperatively, 25 patients (8%) continued to have compressive symptoms (P < .0001), and 10 patients (3%) developed new compressive symptoms. Compressive symptoms were present in 72% (n = 21) of patients with lymphocytic thyroiditis, 71% (n = 5) of patients with anaplastic thyroid cancer, and 60% (n = 92) of patients with goiter. The average volume of the gland in patients with compressive symptoms was 75.5 mL compared to 37.1 mL in asymptomatic patients (P < .0001). There was not a significant relationship between compressive symptoms and the presence of inflammation (P = .869).

Conclusions:

Patients with thyroid disease frequently present with compressive symptoms, and the majority of patients experience relief postoperatively. The volume of the thyroid gland is associated with compressive symptoms along with additional contributing factors.
Comorbid predictors of poor response to chemoradiotherapy for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Hu Melissa , Ampil Fred , Clark Cheryl , Sonavane Kunal , Caldito Gloria , Nathan Cherie‐Ann O.
Published: December 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To investigate whether a correlation exists between medical comorbidities and disease control following primary therapy of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Study Design:

Retrospective medical record review.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was performed on patients diagnosed with laryngeal carcinoma between 1997 and 2011. The Adult Comorbidity Evaluation 27 (ACE 27) index was used to evaluate severity of comorbid health. Ten‐year disease‐free survival rates and median disease‐free intervals were calculated, and significant associations between disease recurrence and comorbid factors were determined using the log‐rank test. Independent significant risk factors for disease recurrence were determined with the Cox proportional hazard regression model.

Results:

Of the 181 patients identified, 121 were treated nonsurgically with either primary radiotherapy (XRT) (49%) or chemoradiotherapy (CRT) (51%). Sixty patients (50%) experienced recurrence of their disease. The 10‐year disease‐free survival rate was 23.8%, and the median disease‐free survival was 58 months (95% confidence interval, 12‐108 months). Factors observed to be significantly associated with recurrence within 10 years after treatment were renal disease (P < .01), pulmonary disease (P < .01), malnutrition (P < .01), T size (P < .01), stage (P = .02), and ACE 27 Index (P < .01). Independent significant risk factors for recurrence were malnutrition (P < .01), T stage (P = .01), and ACE 27 (P < .01). Adjusted hazard ratios were 1.43 for T stage, 2.58 for ACE 27, and 2.15 for malnutrition.

Conclusions:

The results of this study demonstrate that there is a significant association between increased comorbidity and recurrent disease in laryngeal carcinoma treated with XRT/CRT. The consideration of comorbid health in primary treatment planning may improve the success and survival of patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.
Inverted papilloma of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses: A Korean multicenter study
Authors: Kim Dong‐Young , Hong Sung‐Lyong , Lee Chul Hee , Jin Hong‐Ryul , Kang Jun Myung , Lee Bong‐Jae , Moon Il Joon , Chung Seung‐Kyu , Rha Ki‐Sang , Cho Seok Hyun , Kim Kyong Rae , Kim Sung Wan , Kim Dae Woo , Chung Young‐Jun , Kim Kyung‐Su , Won Tae‐Bin , Shim Woo Sub , Park Chan Hum , Kang Il Gyu , Roh Hwan‐Jung
Published: December 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The study group for sinonasal tumors at the Korean Rhinologic Society analyzed the results of the Korean multicenter experience for sinonasal inverted papilloma (IP) surgeries.

Study Design:

Multicenter cohort study and retrospective analysis.

Methods:

In total, 939 patients diagnosed with sinonasal IP treated between 1998 and 2007 at 17 university hospitals were enrolled. Demographic data and information about previous surgeries, the origin and involved site of the tumor, the surgical approach, follow‐up duration, recurrence, and the presence of malignancy were collected. There were 361 patients whose follow‐up was <12 months who were excluded, and 578 patients were included for recurrence analysis.

Results:

The mean follow‐up duration for recurrence analysis was 41.0 months, and 15.7% (91/578) had recurrences, with a mean time to recurrence of 32.6 months. However, the group whose follow‐up was longer than 3 years had a higher chance of tumor recurrence. Patients whose IPs involved the frontal sinus or the medial wall of the maxillary sinus had higher recurrence rates. There was no significant difference in recurrence rates according to stage or surgical approach. In the T3 stage of Krouse, the T3‐A stage of Furuta, and group B of the Citardi staging system, the endoscopic approach alone resulted in higher recurrence rates.

Conclusions:

Generally, there were no significant differences in recurrence rates according to clinical stage or surgical approach. Given the rate of delayed recurrence, follow‐up of >3 years is required. Moreover, surgeons should always consider combined approaches to reduce the chances of recurrence.
In Situ Polymerized Carbon Nanotube/Polyimide Nanocomposites: Effect of Reaction Stoichiometry on the Glass Transition Properties of the Nanocomposites
Authors: Kim Dae Hwan , Won You‐ Yeon
Published: December 2011

A series of in situ polymerized CNT/PI nanocomposite materials synthesized at a fixed diamine‐to‐dianhydride monomer feed ratio with varying concentrations of added –COOH‐ functionalized CNT is studied. It is found that the glass transition temperature of the nanocomposite varies non‐monotonically with CNT concentration. To determine the origin of this behavior, the molecular weights of the matrix polymers are measured by the intrinsic‐viscosity method. The functional‐group density of the CNT material is determined by potentiometric titration. The results confirm that the glass transition of the CNT/PI system depends on the concentration of the CNT filler through its influence on the functional group stoichiometry and thus on the molecular weight of the polycondensation product.

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Problems recruiting volunteers: Nature versus nurture
Authors: Hager Mark A. , Brudney Jeffrey L.
Published: December 2011

In a national study of public charities in the United States, we find that some organizations experience little difficulty recruiting volunteers while others report substantial problems. We study which organizations are more likely to report recruitment problems, separating the underlying forces for those problems into two camps. One, which we label “nature,” represents organizational conditions that cannot readily be overcome by a management response. The other, which we label “nurture,” represents organizational conditions that volunteer resource managers and other members of the top management team can directly influence as they seek to make their organization more inviting to prospective volunteers. We find some support for both camps, concluding that managers must be prepared to work with both immutable and malleable conditions when devising strategies for recruiting volunteers whose schedule and skills fit the organization's needs.
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria in pediatric patients
Authors: Curran Kevin J. , Kernan Nancy A. , Prockop Susan E. , Scaradavou Andromachi , Small Trudy N. , Kobos Rachel , Castro‐Malaspina Hugo , Araten David , DiMichele Donna , O'Reilly Richard J. , Boulad Farid
Published: December 2011

Background

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a rare disease in children. The most significant clinical features of PNH include: bone marrow failure, intravascular hemolysis, and thrombosis. To further characterize the clinical presentation and outcome to treatment we performed a retrospective analysis of pediatric patients with PNH.

Procedure

We reviewed the medical records of 12 consecutive pediatric patients with PNH diagnosed at our institution from 1992 to 2010.

Results

Presenting clinical symptoms included: bone marrow failure (N = 10); gross hemoglobinuria with isolated red cell anemia (N = 1); and jaundice, hepatitis, and isolated thrombocytopenia (N = 1). Immunosuppressive therapy was the initial treatment for 8 patients. Five patients had myelodysplastic features without developing excessive blasts or leukemic transformation. Thrombosis occurred in 6 patients. Five patients underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) of whom 3 patients are alive and disease‐free. Three patients received anti‐complement therapy with eculizumab. Two patients died following complications related to thrombosis and 2 patients are transfusion independent with stable disease.

Conclusion

This report highlights a high rate of bone marrow failure along with a low rate of hemoglobinuria at presentation, a high rate of thrombosis, and for some patients the spontaneous resolution of myelodysplastic features. Delay in diagnosis is common and we recommend appropriate PNH testing in all patients with AA, MDS, unexplained Coombs‐negative hemolysis, or thrombosis. While HSCT remains the only curative option the high prevalence of hemolysis and thrombosis should warrant the consideration of early treatment with anti‐complement therapy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:525–529. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nutritional status of children and young adults with Ewing sarcoma or osteosarcoma at diagnosis and during multimodality therapy
Authors: Tenardi Retno D. , Frühwald Michael C. , Jürgens Heribert , Hertroijs Dorijn , Bauer Jacqueline
Published: December 2011

Objective

Objective of our study was to evaluate the nutritional status and growth of children and adolescents with common malignancies of the musculoskeletal system at diagnosis, and undergoing multimodality therapy.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of data from 2001 to 2009 was conducted. Hospital charts were used as a source of clinical data. Primary endpoint of the analyses was to identify variations in anthropometric parameters at diagnosis and during the first 2 years of follow‐up in children and adolescents with osteosarcoma or Ewing sarcoma. Factors contributing to disorders of growth in this population were sought.

Results

A total of 139 children were registered, 62 with Ewing sarcoma and 77 with osteosarcoma. At diagnosis 72.7% of all patients were classified as adequately nourished (BMI 5th to <85th percentiles). During treatment all anthropometric parameters were markedly reduced (P < 0.001) in both groups with extreme changes in body weight from −30% to +44%. This was pronounced in children affected by osteosarcoma (P < 0.05). During follow‐up, recovery of body weight was noted in both groups. Height Z‐scores remained low (P < 0.001) in comparison to the general population. After the observation period 43.4% of the children with osteosarcoma and 25.5% of the patients with Ewing sarcoma demonstrated an altered body mass.

Conclusions

Pediatric patients with Ewing sarcoma or osteosarcoma are at an increased risk for developing malnutrition, in the form of either over‐ or underweight during multimodality therapy. Early recognition of abnormal body mass is required to prevent and to treat long‐term comorbidities caused by malnutrition. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:621–626. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Absence of BRAF mutation in pediatric and adolescent germ cell tumors indicate biological differences to adult tumors
Authors: Masqué‐Soler Neus , Szczepanowski Monika , Leuschner Ivo , Vokuhl Christian , Haag Jochen , Calaminus Gabriele , Klapper Wolfram
Published: December 2011

The V600E mutation of the BRAF gene has been reported to be associated with poor prognosis of germ cell tumors in adult patients. We analyzed the mutational status of the BRAF and KRAS gene as well as MLH1 and MSH6 expression as surrogate markers for microsatellite instability in 70 pediatric germ cell tumors. Neither BRAF and KRAS mutations nor loss of MLH1 and MSH6 expression were found. Our data provide further evidence for patient age related biological differences in germ cell tumors and demonstrate that prognostic biomarkers cannot necessarily be transferred from one age group to the other. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:732–735. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Risk of cancer in patients exposed to gabapentin in two electronic medical record systems
Authors: Irizarry Michael C. , Webb David J. , Boudiaf Nada , Logie John , Habel Laurel A. , Udaltsova Natalia , Friedman Gary D.
Published: December 2011

Purpose

High doses of gabapentin were associated with pancreatic acinar cell tumors in male Wistar rats, but there is little published epidemiological data regarding gabapentin and carcinogenicity. We explored the association between gabapentin and cancer in a US medical care program and followed up nominally significant associations in a UK primary care database.

Methods

In the US Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC) health system, we performed nested case–control analyses of gabapentin and 55 cancer sites and all cancers combined using conditional logistic regression. Up to 10 controls were matched to each case on year of birth, sex, and year of cohort entry. No other covariates were included in models. Only dispensings for gabapentin 2 years or more before index date were considered. Nominally significant associations with an OR > 1.00 and p < 0.05 for three or more dispensings versus no dispensings were followed up by similar nested case–control analyses in the UK General Practice Research Database (GPRD), adjusting for potential indications for gabapentin and risk factors for the specific cancers.

Results

The following analyses had OR > 1.00 and p < 0.05 for three or more dispensings of gabapentin versus no dispensing (2‐year lag) in KPNC and were also examined in the GPRD: all cancers, breast, lung and bronchus, urinary bladder, kidney/renal pelvis, stomach, anus/anal canal/anorectum, penis, and other nervous system. These cancers were not statistically significantly associated with gabapentin in the GPRD case–control studies (2‐year lag). The GPRD and KPNC studies did not identify a statistically significant increased risk of pancreatic cancer with more than two prescriptions of gabapentin in the 2‐year lagged analyses.

Conclusions

The epidemiological data in a US cohort with up to 12 years of follow‐up and a UK cohort with up to 15 years of follow‐up do not support a carcinogenic effect of gabapentin use. However, the confidence intervals for some analyses were wide, and an important effect cannot be confidently excluded. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The prevalence and distribution of self‐harm among Danish high school students
Authors: MØHL Bo , Skandsen Annika
Published: December 2011

The purpose of this paper is to provide an estimate of the prevalence and distribution of non‐suicidal self‐injury among Danish high school students. In a questionnaire study in seven high schools in the Copenhagen area (n = 2 864), we find a lifetime prevalence of 21.5% with a little preponderance of women, but it seems that men are involved in a more persistent and intense form of self‐injurious behaviour. More men (14.7%) than women (6.2%) have injured themselves more than 20 times in the last year. Fewer men than women did not harm themselves in the last year. We conclude that it is important to be aware of self‐harm both among women and men in high schools to avoid escalation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.