bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histologic and functional outcomes of nerve defects treated with acellular allograft versus cabled autograft in a rat model
Authors: Tang Peter , Kilic Ayhan , Konopka Geoffrey , Regalbuto Ricky , Akelina Yelena , Gardner Thomas
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Acellular nerve allograft is a new option for bridging nerve defects that allows appropriate diameter matching. The aim of the study was to compare the histologic and functional recovery of nerve defects treated with acellular nerve allograft versus cabled sural nerve autograft.

Method

Fifty‐four Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into one of three experimental groups. A unilateral 10 mm sciatic nerve defect was created and repaired with an acellular nerve allograft (Group A), three cabled sural nerve autografts in antidromic orientation (Group B), and the newly created segmental defect in antidromic orientation (reversed autograft) (Group C). Two rats in each group we evaluated histologically at 6 weeks while the rest of the groups were tested histologically and functionally at 12 weeks.

Results

There were no differences in histomorphometry between the groups at 6 weeks, but at 12 weeks at mid‐graft there were differences. Group C had the highest fiber count which was statistically greater when compared to Group A (P = 0.023) and when compared to Group B (P = 0.001). The average normalized maximum isometric tetanic force (ITF) was 52 ± 2.9% for Group A, 34.1 ± 4.2% for Group B, and 51.3 ± 3.3% for Group C at 12 weeks. There was no statistical difference between Groups A and C, but Group A was statistically greater when compared to B, and when Group C was compared to B.

Conclusion

In conclusion, acellular nerve allograft demonstrated equal functional recovery when compared to reversed autograft (control), and superior recovery compared to the cabled nerve autograft. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:460–467, 2013.
A review of propeller flaps for distal lower extremity soft tissue reconstruction: Is flap loss too high?
Authors: Nelson Jonas A. , Fischer John P. , Brazio Philip S. , Kovach Stephen J. , Rosson Gedge D. , Rad Ariel N.
Published: July 2013

Soft tissue coverage in the distal lower extremity remains a significant challenge. While free flaps are often utilized for larger defects, local perforator‐based propeller flaps may be ideal for smaller wounds requiring coverage. Propeller flaps can provide excellent form and function for both traumatic and atraumatic defects with minimal donor site morbidity but can have concerning rates of flap loss. We reviewed the literature, identifying 21 studies presenting 310 propeller flaps for distal lower extremity reconstruction. Total flap necrosis was noted in 5.5% of flaps, with partial necrosis in 11.6%. While these flaps do enable transfer of local, healthy tissue to the defect site without the need for a microsurgical anastomosis, this rate of flap loss is concerning and appropriate patient selection is crucial. This review provides a brief history and overview of the clinical application and research into distal lower extremity perforator propeller flaps to place this technique into a clinical context. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:578–586, 2013.
The effect of the 5‐HT7 serotonin receptor agonist, LP44, on micturition in rats with chronic spinal cord injury
Authors: Gang Wu , Hongjian Tu , Jasheng Chen , Jiemin Si , Zhong Chen , Yuemin Xu , Baojun Gu , Andersson Karl‐Erik
Published: July 2013

Aims

To better understand the effects of the selective 5‐HT7 receptor agonist 4‐[2‐(Methylthio)phenyl]‐N‐(1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐1‐naphthalenyl)‐1‐piperazinehexanamide hydrochloride (LP44) on micturition in spinal cord injury (SCI) rats.

Methods

Female Sprague‐Dawley rats weighing 200–275 g were used. SCI was produced in 8 of the 16 rats by transection at the T10 level; cystometric study occurred 8–12 weeks post‐transection. Intravesical pressure was monitored in urethane‐anesthetized animals via a transvesical catheter. The selective 5‐HT7 antagonist (R)‐3‐[2‐[2‐(4‐Methylpiperidin‐1‐yl)ethyl]pyrrolidine‐1‐sulfonyl] phenol hydrochloride (SB‐269970) was administered after each LP44 dose–response curve (all drugs were administered intravenously, i.v).

Results

Compared to controls, SCI rats had a higher bladder capacity and residual volume, and a lower voiding efficiency. In SCI rats, LP44 (0.003–0.3 mg/kg, i.v) induced significant dose‐dependent increases in micturition volume, significant dose‐dependent decreases in residual volume, resulting in significant increases in voiding efficiency. CMG measurements showed a dose‐dependent increase of the high‐frequency oscillation (HFO) activity, including the number of small oscillation per voiding. This was correlated with the improved voiding efficiency. SB‐269970 (0.1 mg/kg, i.v) partially or completely reversed all LP44‐induced changes.

Conclusions

HFOs seems to be correlated with external urethral sphincter (EUS) bursting activity during voiding. Both the bladder voiding efficiency and the periodic EUS activity were decreased in SCI rats. 5‐HT7 receptor agonist can enhance HFO activity, thereby improving voiding efficiency. Whether or not these results may have implications for the future treatment of voiding dysfunction in SCI patients remains to be studied. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:1165–1170, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An advanced finite element formulation for piezoelectric shell structures
Authors: Legner D. , Klinkel S. , Wagner W.
Published: July 2013

Piezoelectric materials are increasingly employed throughout the field of sensor and actuator applications. The physical description leads to a boundary value problem with electromechanically coupled differential equations that can be solved approximatively, for example, by the FEM. As the structures usually are quite thin, piezoelectric shell elements are very well suited for this task. In piezoelectric materials, the mechanical and the electrical fields are coupled by the constitutive relations. Especially for problems dominated by bending, this results in incompatibilities when using element formulations where the mechanical and the electrical DOFs are interpolated with lowest order functions. As a consequence, parasitic approximations and incorrect computation results occur. The present work proposes a concept to avoid these incompatible approximation spaces and the occurring computation errors when dealing with thin structures. The element is based on a mixed variational formulation and uses six mechanical and two electrical nodal DOFs. It employs the Reissner–Mindlin kinematics, considers strains throughout the thickness, and allows for 3D‐electromechanical constitutive relations. Numerical examples show that the element formulation is electromechanically consistent and enables to analyze piezoelectric shell structures without parasitic approximations for all typical load cases. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Error estimation and model adaptation for a stochastic‐deterministic coupling method based on the Arlequin framework
Authors: Zaccardi C. , Chamoin L. , Cottereau R. , Ben Dhia H.
Published: July 2013

The paper deals with the issue of accuracy for multiscale methods applied to solve stochastic problems. It more precisely focuses on the control of a coupling, performed using the Arlequin framework, between a deterministic continuum model and a stochastic continuum one. By using residual‐type estimates and adjoint‐based techniques, a strategy for goal‐oriented error estimation is presented for this coupling and contributions of various error sources (modeling, space discretization, and Monte Carlo approximation) are assessed. Furthermore, an adaptive strategy is proposed to enhance the quality of outputs of interest obtained by the coupled stochastic‐deterministic model. Performance of the proposed approach is illustrated on 1D and 2D numerical experiments. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal boundary control of the unsteady Burgers equation with simultaneous space‐time discretization
Authors: Karasözen B. , Yılmaz F.
Published: July 2013

The optimality system for boundary controlled unsteady Burgers equation is transformed after linearization into a biharmonic equation in the space–time domain. It is then discretized in space and time simultaneously, so that standard finite element software can be easily implemented. Numerical experiments with and without control constraint problems confirm the applicability of this approach. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymer conjugates for focal and targeted delivery of drugs
Authors: Polyak Dina , Eldar‐Boock Anat , Baabur‐Cohen Hemda , Satchi‐Fainaro Ronit
Published: July 2013

Polymer therapeutics is a very promising and rapidly growing area of nanomedicine, which has significantly improved the therapeutic potential of low‐molecular‐weight drugs and proteins for cancer treatment. Conjugation of toxic drugs to high‐molecular‐weight carriers can lead to reduction in systemic toxicity, longer retention time in the body, improved biodistribution and therapeutic efficacy, and site‐specific passive accumulation thanks to the leaky tumor vasculature. Furthermore, a targeting moiety can be coupled to the polymer–drug conjugate in order to actively and selectively deliver it to the desired tissue and cellular target. This review presents a summary of currently developed polymer therapeutics with detailed focus on their components and supramolecular structure. The use of polymeric nanocarriers for cancer angiogenesis‐targeted delivery is illustrated by specific examples. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface structure analysis of injection molded highly filled polymer melts
Authors: Hausnerova Berenika , Sanetrnik Daniel , Ponizil Petr
Published: July 2013

Material components' separation limits to a great extent the efficiency of injection molding of highly filled polymer melts. An uneven redistribution of particle filler within a polymer melt is evaluated with the specially developed testing mold allowing observing the progress of separation during injection molding. Then, scanning electron microscopy of the particular areas derived from the testing mold combined with energy dispersive X‐ray analysis of the distribution of elements typical for filler and analytical approach are employed to derive a quantitative parameter describing the tendency of highly filled feedstocks to the separation. POLYM. COMPOS., 34:1553–1558, 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Beyond pH
Authors: Scorrano Gianfranco , O'Ferrall Rory More
Published: July 2013

pH is one of the few chemical quantities known also to the lay public. However, when we use acid solution more concentrated than 1 M, very few chemists are aware of how to define the activity of the proton under such conditions. In this review, we will describe the scientific efforts to understand in a comprehensible way the behavior of organic compounds in moderately concentrated aqueous solutions. In the second part of the past century, it became clear that, since increasing the aqueous acid concentration, we must decrease the concentration of water, protonation of weak bases is always accompanied by a change in solvating ability of the medium. As a consequence, the description of the protonation equilibria must be made either by the pK in water and by the solvent effect on the equilibrium. We will show that treatments by Bunnett and Olsen, Marziano, and Cox and Yates all give the same results, although on a slightly different scale. It is possible to classify organic ions solvation abilities in the scale oxonium > ammonium > sulphonium > carbenium. The same scale is obtained by evaluating the energetics of transfer of the same ions from gas phase to water. More recently, it has become possible to calculate the energetic of ion solvation, obtaining the same scale described above for the experimental data. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Wild‐type, Flemish, and Dutch amyloid‐β exhibit different cytotoxicities depending on Aβ40 to Aβ42 interaction time and concentration ratio
Authors: Shahnawaz Md. , Sharoar Md. Golam , Shin Song Yub , Park Il‐Seon
Published: July 2013

Addition of amyloid β (Aβ) peptide Aβ40 to Aβ42 can delay Aβ42 aggregation, but consequent cytotoxicity has been reported to be enhanced or diminished. In the present study, we found that cytotoxicity was enhanced when human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells were incubated in a mixture of wt Aβ42 and Aβ40wt at a ratio of 1 : 10–20 (0.1 : 1–2 μM) for 24–36 h, whereas the enhancement was detected in cells incubated for longer times (48–60 h) with the less amyloidogenic Flemish Aβ40 variant or in cells incubated for as short as 12 h with the more amyloidogenic Dutch variant. Reductions in cytotoxicity by Aβ40 were most prominently observed in the Flemish and wt Aβ40/Aβ42 mixture at ratio 1 : 20 incubated for a short time (~12 h). The most cytotoxic Aβ40/Aβ42 mixtures were enriched in Aβ protofibril‐like structures, implying a strong correlation between cytotoxicity and this structure, the formation of which was dependent on amyloidogenic properties and incubation time. The consequences of the interactions were probably because of the different amyloidogenic properties of the Aβ40 variants, rather than to those of Aβ42, because aggregation rates of Aβ40 variants were highly dependent on sequence, whereas those of Aβ42 variants were not. These studies highlight a potential role for Aβ40 in cytotoxicity and provide novel mechanistic insights into the pathogenesis of each familial Alzheimer's disease‐associated Aβ40 variant. Copyright © 2013 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
XPS and AFM characterization of aminosilanes with different numbers of bonding sites on a silicon wafer
Authors: Jakša G. , Štefane B. , Kovač J.
Published: July 2013

The aim of this work was the preparation and characterization of a silicon surface modified by different self‐assembled aminopropylsilanes with the purpose of using them in sensor applications. Single‐crystal silicon wafers (111) were modified with aminosilanes that have different numbers of bonding sites: 3‐aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS), 3‐aminopropyldiethoxymethylsilane (APRDMS) and 3‐aminopropylethoxydimethylsilane (APREMS). We deposited the self‐assembled layers from a solution of aminosilanes in toluene under various reaction conditions. The surface composition and the chemical bonding were determined using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Furthermore, the surface morphology was investigated using atomic force microscopy. Our results show that the reactivity with the Si‐oxide layer and the polymerization of aminosilanes depend on the number of possible bonding sites. The APTMS reacted the most intensively with the Si‐oxide layer; a less intensive reaction was observed for the APRDMS; and the least intensive reaction was observed for the APREMS. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiple imputation for handling systematically missing confounders in meta‐analysis of individual participant data
Authors: Resche‐Rigon Matthieu , White Ian R. , Bartlett Jonathan W. , Peters Sanne A.E. , Thompson Simon G. ,   on behalf of the PROG‐IMT Study Group
Published: July 2013

A variable is ‘systematically missing’ if it is missing for all individuals within particular studies in an individual participant data meta‐analysis. When a systematically missing variable is a potential confounder in observational epidemiology, standard methods either fail to adjust the exposure–disease association for the potential confounder or exclude studies where it is missing. We propose a new approach to adjust for systematically missing confounders based on multiple imputation by chained equations. Systematically missing data are imputed via multilevel regression models that allow for heterogeneity between studies. A simulation study compares various choices of imputation model. An illustration is given using data from eight studies estimating the association between carotid intima media thickness and subsequent risk of cardiovascular events. Results are compared with standard methods and also with an extension of a published method that exploits the relationship between fully adjusted and partially adjusted estimated effects through a multivariate random effects meta‐analysis model. We conclude that multiple imputation provides a practicable approach that can handle arbitrary patterns of systematic missingness. Bias is reduced by including sufficient between‐study random effects in the imputation model. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microstructural Evolution and Deformation Behaviors of Fe–Mn–Al–C Steels with Different Stacking Fault Energies
Authors: Hua Ding , Huaying Li , Zhiqiang Wu , Mingli Huang , Haoze Li , Qibin Xin
Published: July 2013

In the present work, Fe–26Mn–xAl–1C steels with different Al concentrations (3, 6, 10, and 12%) in a stacking fault energy range of 37–96 mJ m−2 were investigated. The results showed the microstructure was fully austenitic when Al concentrations were 3 and 6%; while it consisted of austenite phase and carbides when the Al concentration was over 10% and there appeared ferrite when the Al concentration was 12%. All steels manifested continuous yielding and the yield strength increased as Al concentration increased. Microstructure observation revealed that deformation mechanisms and strain hardening behaviors were quite different for the steels with different stacking fault energies.
An ontology for component‐based models of water resource systems
Authors: Elag Mostafa , Goodall Jonathan L.
Published: July 2013

Key Points

An ontology is needed to support multidisciplinary, community‐focused models

The ontology provides a knowledge‐level specification for model components

The ontology defines metadata needed to support community modeling frameworks
Rhodium(I) and Silver(I) Complexes of 4, 5‐Dicyano‐1, 3‐dimesityl‐ and 4, 5‐Dicyano‐1, 3‐dineopentylimidazol‐2‐ylidene
Authors: Baier Heiko , Kelling Alexandra , Jackstell Ralf , Holdt Hans‐Jürgen
Published: July 2013

The new N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) precursors 4, ‐dicyano‐1, ‐dimesityl‐ (9) and 4, 5‐dicyano‐1, 3‐dineopentyl‐2‐(pentafluorophenyl)imidazoline (14) were synthesized. The structure of 9 could be determined by X‐ray crystallography. With the 2‐pentafluorophenyl‐substituted imidazolines 9 and 14, the [AgCl(NHC)], [RhCl(COD)(NHC)], and [RhCl(CO)2(NHC)] complexes [NHC = 4, 5‐dicyano‐1, 3‐dimesitylimidazol‐2‐ylidene (3) and 4, 5‐dicyano‐1, 3‐dineopentylimidazol‐2‐ylidene (4)] were obtained. Crystal structures of [AgCl(3)] (15), [RhCl(COD)(3)] (17), [RhCl(COD)(4)] (18), and [RhCl(CO)2(3)] (19) were solved and with the crystal data of 19, the percent buried volume ( %Vbur) of 31.8(±0.1) % was determined for NHC 3. Infrared spectra of the imidazolines 9 and 14 and of the complexes 15–20 were recorded and the CO stretching frequencies of complexes 19 and 20 were used to determine the Tolman electronic parameters of the newly obtained NHCs 3 (TEP: 2060 cm–1) and 4 (TEP: 2061 cm–1), thus proving that 1, 3‐substitution of maleonitrile‐NHCs does not have a significant effect for the high π‐acceptor strength of these carbenes.
Preparation of Energetic Poly(azolyl)borates as New Environmentally Benign Green‐Light‐Emitting Species for Pyrotechnics
Authors: Klapötke Thomas M. , Rusan Magdalena , Sproll Véronique
Published: July 2013

Three different energetic poly(azolyl)borates, potassium dihydridobis(4‐nitroimidazolyl)borate, sodium dihydridobis(4, 5‐dinitroimidazolyl)borate, and sodium dihydridobis(3, 4,5‐trinitropyrazolyl)borate, were synthesized as starting materials for metal‐free environmentally benign green‐light‐emitting substitutes for barium salts in pyrotechnical mixtures. The compounds were analyzed by NMR and Raman spectroscopy and high mass resolution spectrometry. Moreover, the energetic properties regarding physical and thermal stability were determined. The 11B NMR chemical shifts were calculated and compared to the experimental values and intense investigations on the formation of poly(4‐nitroimidazolyl)borates were performed. Furthermore, the solvolytic stability towards alcohol and water was tested.
4, 4′‐ and 5, 5′‐Functionalized (S)‐ and (R)‐2, 2′‐Bis(diphenylphosphanyl)‐1, 1′‐binaphthyl Oxide Derivatives
Authors: Wahyu Lestari Witri , Zaake‐Hertling Haldor , Lönnecke Peter , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie
Published: July 2013

A series of 4, 4′‐ and 5, 5′‐functionalized (S)‐ and (R)‐2, 2′‐bis(diphenylphosphanyl)‐1, 1′‐binaphthyl oxide (BINAPO) derivatives were prepared by Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling from 4, 4′‐ and 5, 5′‐dibromo‐BINAPO and the corresponding boronic acid, RB(OH)2 [R = 4‐(methoxycarbonyl)phenyl, 3‐pyridyl and 4‐pyridyl]. The carboxylic acid‐substituted BINAPO derivatives were obtained from the esters by saponification with NaOH. The novel BINAPO derivatives were fully characterized by NMR (1H, 13C, 31P), IR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry, and for (S)‐4, 4′‐bis(3‐pyridyl)‐BINAPO, (S)‐5, 5′‐bis(3‐pyridyl)‐BINAPO, and (S)‐ and (R)‐4, 4′‐bis(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐BINAPO also by X‐ray crystallography. They are thermally stable up to 400–440 °C as determined by DTA/TG analysis.
Stapleless Laparoscopic Splenectomy with Individual Vessel Dissection in Patients with Splenomegaly
Authors: Tan JingWang , Chu Yajuan , Tan Yunchang , Dong JiaHong
Published: July 2013

Background

Mechanical stapling devices have been established as a mainstay in laparoscopic splenectomy (LS), but limited data are available regarding stapleless LS for splenomegaly with individual vessel dissection (IVD). This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of stapleless LS for splenomegaly and its potential advantage over staple‐based LS.

Methods

A total of 51 patients with splenomegaly underwent stapleless LS and were subsequently reviewed. The data collected include the patients’ demographics, operative outcomes, and the rates of conversion to open surgery, complications, and mortality. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were used to assess the impact of the primary diagnosis, body mass index (BMI), and massive splenomegaly on the perioperative conversion rate.

Results

There were no deaths. The mean for various parameters are as follows: spleen length 21.6 cm; spleen weight 1,184 g, operating time 148 min, hospital stay 5.2 days, estimated blood loss 245 ml. The total conversion rate was 9.8 % (including one reoperation for bleeding). The presence of a BMI >30 % and hematologic malignancy—cofactors of portal hypertension (PH)—and a spleen weight >1,000 g were independent predictors of conversion to open surgery.

Conclusions

Stapleless LS for splenomegaly is feasible and safe in selected patients. It has advantages over traditional procedures using staples, at least in patients with benign splenomegaly. Patients with hematologic malignancy, BMI >30 %, coexistence of PH, and spleen weight >1,000 g are susceptible to bleeding during dissection of the splenic hilum, with use of IVD being relatively limited.
Genome-scale stoichiometry analysis to elucidate the innate capability of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis for electricity generation
Authors: Mao Longfei , Verwoerd Wynand S
Published: July 2013

Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 has been considered as a promising biocatalyst for electricity generation in recent microbial fuel cell research. However, the innate maximum current production potential and underlying metabolic pathways supporting the high current output are still unknown. This is mainly due to the fact that the high-current production cell phenotype results from the interaction among hundreds of reactions in the metabolism and it is impossible for reductionist methods to characterize the pathway selection in such a metabolic state. In this study, we employed computational metabolic techniques, flux balance analysis, and flux variability analysis, to exploit the maximum current outputs of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, in five electron transfer cases, namely, ferredoxin- and plastoquinol-dependent electron transfers under photoautotrophic cultivation, and NADH-dependent mediated electron transfer under photoautotrophic, heterotrophic, and mixotrophic conditions. In these five modes, the maximum current outputs were computed as 0.198, 0.7918, 0.198, 0.4652, and 0.4424 A gDW−1, respectively. Comparison of the five operational modes suggests that plastoquinol-/c-type cytochrome-targeted electricity generation had an advantage of liberating the highest current output achievable for Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. On the other hand, the analysis indicates that the currency metabolite, NADH-, dependent electricity generation can rely on a number of reactions from different pathways, and is thus more robust against environmental perturbations.
Intelligent system design for bionanorobots in drug delivery
Authors: Fletcher Mark , Biglarbegian Mohammad , Neethirajan Suresh
Published: July 2013

A nanorobot is defined as any smart structure which is capable of actuation, sensing, manipulation, intelligence, and swarm behavior at the nanoscale. In this study, we designed an intelligent system using fuzzy logic for diagnosis and treatment of tumors inside the human body using bionanorobots. We utilize fuzzy logic and a combination of thermal, magnetic, optical, and chemical nanosensors to interpret the uncertainty associated with the sensory information. Two different fuzzy logic structures, for diagnosis (Mamdani structure) and for cure (Takagi–Sugeno structure), were developed to efficiently identify the tumors and treat them through delivery of effective dosages of a drug. Validation of the designed system with simulated conditions proved that the drug delivery of bionanorobots was robust to reasonable noise that may occur in the bionanorobot sensors during navigation, diagnosis, and curing of the cancer cells. Bionanorobots represent a great hope for successful cancer therapy in the near future.
The evolution of agile software development in Brazil
Authors: de O. Melo Claudia , Santos Viviane , Katayama Eduardo , Corbucci Hugo , Prikladnicki Rafael , Goldman Alfredo , Kon Fabio
Published: July 2013

Agile software development methods have been increasingly adopted worldwide and became one of the mainstream software development approaches. Agile methods have also had an impact on software engineering education with universities adapting their courses to accommodate this new form of software development. Software engineering research has tried to evaluate the impact of agile methods in industrial projects and discover in which situations it is beneficial to apply such methods. However, there are almost no studies focusing on the progress of the agile movement in Brazil. In this paper, we present an overview of the evolution of the agile movement in Brazil, outlining the history of its first advocates in academia and industry. We describe existing educational initiatives, discuss the impact of the agile development on the national research, and present a report on the agile state-of-the-practice in the Brazilian IT industry.
Relationships Between Religion and Intolerance Towards Muslims and Immigrants in Europe: A Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Doebler Stefanie
Published: July 2013

This paper examines relationships between religiosity and intolerance towards Muslims and immigrants among Europeans living in non-Muslim majority countries by applying multilevel modeling to European Values Study data (wave four, 2010 ). Thus relationships across 44 national contexts are analyzed. The analysis found large between-country differences in the overall levels of intolerance towards immigrants and Muslims. Eastern Europeans tend to be more intolerant than Western Europeans. In most countries Muslims are less accepted than immigrants,—a finding which reflects that in post-9/11 Europe Islamophobia is prevalent and many still see Muslims with suspicion. A key result is that believing matters for the citizen's attitudes towards Muslims and immigrants. Across Europe, traditional and modern fuzzy beliefs in a Higher Being are strongly negatively related to intolerance towards immigrants and Muslims, while fundamentalism is positively related to both targets of intolerance. Religious practice and denominational belonging on the other hand matter far less for the citizen's propensity to dislike the two out-groups. With the only exception of non-devout Protestants who do not practice their religion, members of religious denominations are not more intolerant than non-members. The findings are valid for the vast majority of countries although countries differ in the magnitude of the effects.
Michaelis and Menten and the long road to the discovery of cooperativity
Authors: Cárdenas María Luz
Published: July 2013

This article sketches the road from the establishment of the principles of enzyme kinetics, at the beginning of the 20th century, to the discovery of regulatory mechanisms and the models to explain them, from the middle of the century onwards. A long gap in time separates the two periods, in which technological advances were made that allowed the discovery of feedback inhibition and cooperativity. In particular, these discoveries and the theory needed to explain them could not have been made without knowledge of the major metabolic pathways and the enzymes and metabolites involved in them.
The crystal structure of an isopenicillin N synthase complex with an ethereal substrate analogue reveals water in the oxygen binding site
Authors: Clifton Ian J. , Ge Wei , Adlington Robert M. , Baldwin Jack E. , Rutledge Peter J.
Published: July 2013

Isopenicillin N synthase (IPNS) is a non‐heme iron oxidase central to the biosynthesis of β‐lactam antibiotics. IPNS converts the tripeptide δ‐(l‐α‐aminoadipoyl)‐l‐cysteinyl‐d‐valine (ACV) to isopenicillin N while reducing molecular oxygen to water. The substrate analogue δ‐(l‐α‐aminoadipoyl)‐l‐cysteinyl‐O‐methyl‐d‐threonine (ACmT) is not turned over by IPNS. Epimeric δ‐(l‐α‐aminoadipoyl)‐l‐cysteinyl‐O‐methyl‐d‐allo‐threonine (ACmaT) is converted to a bioactive penam product. ACmT and ACmaT differ from each other only in the stereochemistry at the β‐carbon atom of their third residue. These substrates both contain a methyl ether in place of the isopropyl group of ACV. We report an X‐ray crystal structure for the anaerobic IPNS:Fe(II):ACmT complex. This structure reveals an additional water molecule bound to the active site metal, held by hydrogen‐bonding to the ether oxygen atom of the substrate analogue.
Regional differences in myelination of chick vestibulocochlear ganglion cells
Authors: Sun Ying‐Jie , Kobayashi Hiroto , Yoshida Saori , Shirasawa Nobuyuki , Naito Akira
Published: July 2013

In vertebrates, vestibular and cochlear ganglion (VG and CG, respectively) cells are bipolar neurons with myelinated axons and perikarya. The time course of the myelination of the VG and CG cells during development of chick embryos was investigated. Chick VG and CG from embryonic day at 7–20 (E7–20) were prepared for a transmission electron microscopy, myelin basic protein immunohistochemistry, and real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR. In the VG cells, myelination was first observed on the peripheral axons of the ampullar nerves at E10, on the utricular and saccular nerves at E12, and on the lagenar and neglecta nerves at E13. In the VG central axons, myelination was first seen on the ampullar nerves at E11, on the utricular and saccular nerves at E13, and on the lagenar nerves at E13. In the CG cells, the myelination was first observed on the peripheral and central axons at E14. In both VG and CG, myelination was observed on the perikarya at E17. These results suggest that the onset of the axonal myelination on the VG cells occurred earlier than that on the CG cells, whereas the perikaryal myelination occurred at about the same time on the both types of ganglion cells. Moreover, the myelination on the ampullar nerves occurred earlier than that on the utricular and saccular nerves. The myelination on the peripheral axons occurred earlier than that on the central axons of the VG cells, whereas that on the central and peripheral axons of the CG cells occurred at about the same time. The regional differences in myelination in relation to the onset of functional activities in the VG and CG cells are discussed.
Association between delivery of a small‐for‐gestational‐age neonate and long‐term maternal cardiovascular morbidity
Authors: Pariente Gali , Sheiner Eyal , Kessous Roy , Michael Sherf , Shoham‐Vardi Ilana
Published: July 2013

Objective

To investigate whether delivering a small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) newborn is a risk factor for subsequent long‐term maternal cardiovascular morbidity.

Methods

Data were analyzed from consecutive pregnant women who delivered at Soroka University Medical Center, Beer‐Sheva, Israel, between 1988 and 1999, and were followed‐up retrospectively until 2010. Long‐term cardiovascular morbidity was compared among women with and without SGA neonates.

Results

During the study period, 47 612 deliveries met the inclusion criteria, and 4411 (9.3%) women delivered an SGA neonate. Delivery of an SGA neonate was a risk factor for long‐term complex cardiovascular events, including congestive heart failure, hypertensive heart and kidney disease, and acute cor pulmonale (odds ratio [OR], 2.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3–4.4; P = 0.006); and long‐term cardiovascular mortality (OR, 3.4; 95% CI, 1.5–7.6; P = 0.006). Women who delivered an SGA neonate had a significantly higher risk for cardiovascular mortality during the follow‐up period (Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, P = 0.002). Delivery of an SGA neonate remained an independent risk factor for long‐term maternal cardiovascular mortality (Cox multivariable regression: adjusted hazard ratio, 3.5; 95% CI, 1.5–8.2; P = 0.004).

Conclusion

Delivery of an SGA neonate is an independent risk factor for long‐term cardiovascular morbidity in a follow‐up period of more than 10 years.
Clinical Effects and Antivenom Use for Snake Bite Victims Treated at Three US Hospitals in Afghanistan
Authors: Heiner Jason D. , Bebarta Vikhyat S. , Varney Shawn M. , Bothwell Jason D. , Cronin Aaron J.
Published: July 2013

Objective

Annually, more than 100,000 US and international military and civilian personnel work in Afghanistan within terrain harboring venomous snakes. Current literature insufficiently supports Afghan antivenom treatment and stocking guidelines. We report the clinical course and treatments for snakebite victims presenting to US military hospitals in Afghanistan.

Methods

All snakebite victims presenting to 3 US military emergency departments between July 2010 and August 2011 in northern and southern Afghanistan were examined via chart review. Case information included patient demographics, snake description, bite details and complications, laboratory results, antivenom use and adverse effects, procedures performed, and hospital course.

Results

Of 17 cases, median patient age was 20 years (interquartile range [IQR], 12–30), 16 were male, and 82% were Afghans. All bites were to an extremity, and median time to care was 2.8 hours (IQR, 2–5.8). On arrival, 8 had tachycardia and none had hypotension or hypoxia. A viper was implicated in 5 cases. Ten cases received at least 1 dose of polyvalent antivenom, most commonly for coagulopathy, without adverse effects. Six received additional antivenom, 6 had an international normalized ratio (INR) > 10, and none developed delayed coagulopathy. Three received blood transfusions. Hospital stay ranged from 1 to 4 days. None required vasopressors, fasciotomy, or other surgery, and none died. All had resolution of marked coagulopathies and improved swelling and pain on discharge.

Conclusions

We report the largest series of snake envenomations treated by US physicians in Afghanistan. Antivenom was tolerated well with improvement of coagulopathy and symptoms. All patients survived with minimal advanced interventions other than blood transfusion.
Robust minimality of iterated function systems with two generators
Authors: HOMBURG ALE JAN , NASSIRI MEYSAM
Published: July 2013

We prove that every compact manifold without boundary admits a pair of diffeomorphisms that generates ${C}^{1} $ robustly minimal dynamics. We apply the results to the construction of blenders and robustly transitive skew product diffeomorphisms.
The primary instability of falling films in the presence of soluble surfactants
Authors: Karapetsas George , Bontozoglou Vasilis
Published: July 2013

We investigate the linear stability of a film flowing down a solid substrate in the presence of soluble surfactants. The Navier–Stokes equations for the liquid motion are considered, together with advection–diffusion equations for the concentrations of the species involved, which include monomers dissolved in the bulk and adsorbed at the liquid–air and at the liquid–substrate interfaces. The adsorption–desorption kinetics of the surfactant at both interfaces is explicitly accounted for. An Orr–Sommerfeld eigenvalue problem is formulated, and solved analytically in the limit of long-wave disturbances and numerically for arbitrary wavelength using a finite element method. An extensive parametric study is performed to reveal the role of surfactant solubility and adsorption–desorption kinetics. The results quantify the stabilizing effect of soluble surfactants due to the presence of Marangoni stresses, and indicate that moderately soluble surfactants may be more effective than insoluble ones. Disturbances of finite wavelength are stabilized by more than an order of magnitude, and their detailed behaviour depends in a non-monotonic way on the amount of surfactant and on its solubility and kinetics. The above predictions provide insights for the interpretation of recent experimental findings on the primary instability and on the ensuing unstable dynamics of liquid films doped with soluble surfactants.
Ezekiel's Awkward God: Atheism, Idolatry and theVia Negativa
Authors: Mein Andrew
Published: July 2013

Can a biblical text be idolatrous? Ezekiel's God has always been theologically awkward and difficult to handle. For early Jewish and Christian readers of the book the most troublesome (and indeed dangerous) parts of the text were the prophet's initial vision of the divine glory and its subsequent reappearances. Voltaire was perplexed and revolted by God's command that Ezekiel eat bread cooked with dung.1For some twentieth-century Protestant commentators, Ezekiel's God is altogether too concerned with ritual at the expense of ethics.2But for contemporary readers it is the unrelenting harshness, violence and especially masculinity of Ezekiel'sYhwhwhich proves most problematic. My aim in this article is to examine some of the theological implications of this divine awkwardness. In what follows I will attempt three things. First, I will offer a brief examination of the problems Ezekiel's God poses and a few recent Christian responses. Second, I will outline Roland Boer's proposal that Ezekiel 20 (along with 16 and 23) tends towards a kind of ‘anti-Yahwism’ or ‘protest atheism’: a vision of God so appalling as to be impossible to accept. Finally, I will explore the value for theological interpretation of taking seriously such an apparently unpromising conclusion, and suggest that the apophatic tradition may provide resources for embracing such radical negativity within scripture.
Elternfragebogen zu den Deutschkenntnissen mehrsprachiger Kinder*
Authors: Keller Karin , Grob Alexander
Published: July 2013

In diesem Beitrag wird der in zehn Sprachen vorliegende neu entwickelte Fragebogen zur Erfassung der Deutschkenntnisse von mehrsprachigen Vorkindergartenkindern DaZ-E (Deutsch als Zweitsprache – Elternfragebogen) vorgestellt. Der Fragebogen wurde von einer sprachlich und ethnisch heterogenen Stichprobe von 1479 Familien mit einem Kind im Alter von drei Jahren bearbeitet (M = 40 Monate, SD = 4 Monate) und an einer Stichprobe von 416 Kindern validiert. Die konkurrente und prognostische Validität sowie die Reliabilitätsschätzungen erweisen sich als sehr gut. Die Validität bei mehrsprachigen Familien ist weder durch geringe elterliche Deutschkenntnisse noch durch einen niedrigen Bildungsabschluss beeinträchtigt. Mittels Multigruppenvergleichen kann gezeigt werden, dass die zehn Sprachversionen messinvariant sind und sich deren Gesamtscores vergleichen lassen. Damit liegt ein Instrument für fremdsprachige Eltern vor, mit welchem die Zweitsprachkenntnisse von Vorkindergartenkindern valide und zeitökonomisch eingeschätzt werden können.
Differentielle Teilnahme an Lehrerfortbildungen und deren Zusammenhang mit professionsbezogenen Merkmalen von Lehrkräften*
Authors: Richter Dirk , Engelbert Maria , Weirich Sebastian , Anand Pant Hans
Published: July 2013

Diese Arbeit untersucht, ob sich Lehrkräfte anhand der von ihnen besuchten Fortbildungsveranstaltungen zu Gruppen ordnen lassen, die distinkte inhaltliche Fortbildungsschwerpunkte abbilden. Darüber hinaus wird der Frage nachgegangen, ob sich Lehrkräfte dieser Gruppen systematisch unterscheiden. Grundlage dieser Untersuchung bildete eine Lehrerbefragung, die im Rahmen des IQB-Ländervergleichs Sprachen im Jahr 2009 stattfand und an der 2 076 Lehrkräfte der Fächer Deutsch und Englisch teilnahmen. Es konnten fünf Gruppen bestimmt werden, die sich in den inhaltlichen Schwerpunkten der Fortbildungen und der Teilnahmeaktivität unterscheiden. Besonders bedeutsam waren unter diesen Gruppen diejenigen mit der höchsten und geringsten Fortbildungsbeteiligung. Lehrkräfte mit Fortbildungen in allen Themenbereichen waren selbstwirksamer und kooperierten stärker in ihrem Fachkollegium. Im Gegensatz dazu zeigten Lehrkräfte ohne Fortbildungsbeteiligung ein entsprechend reziprokes Muster.
Explaining the Relationship Between Media Exposure and Early Adolescents’ Body Image Perceptions
Authors: Eyal Keren , Te’eni-Harari Tali
Published: July 2013

In recent years, there has been a worldwide increase in the extent of overweight and obesity as well as other eating disorders, especially among youths. Alongside genetic and biological factors that can explain some aspects of these phenomena and the psychological outcomes associated with them, researchers attributed an important role to social and cultural factors, including the mass media. This study examined the relationship between media exposure and early adolescents’ body image. It applied social comparison theory to the study of favorite television characters, an original extension of past research on general social comparison processes. Specifically, the parasocial relationships and motivations for self-comparison with the characters were examined. Based on a survey among 391 seventh and eighth graders, the study found that media exposure negatively predicted body image both directly and through a mediation process involving parasocial relationships with favorite characters, motivations to self-compare, and engagement in social comparison with them. Further, social comparison with favorite characters was found to positively predict an actual/ideal body shape discrepancy which negatively predicted body image. The findings are discussed in light of theory, developmental considerations associated with this unique age group, past research, and educational and policy implications.
The secret garden's gardeners
Authors: Hunter Philip
Published: July 2013

The role of the microbial fauna in our gut for health and well‐being is undisputed. Now, scientists are discovering that gut viruses also play a crucial role in modulating our risk for a wide range of diseases.
The developing schistosome worms elicit distinct immune responses in different tissue regions
Authors: McWilliam Hamish EG , Driguez Patrick , Piedrafita David , Maupin Kevin A , Haab Brian B , McManus Donald P , Meeusen Els NT
Published: July 2013

Schistosome parasites follow a complex migration path through various tissues, changing their antigenic profile as they develop. A thorough understanding of the antibody response in each tissue region could help unravel the complex immunology of these developing parasites and aid vaccine design. Here we used a novel strategy for analysing the local antibody responses induced by Schistosoma japonicum infection at each site of infection. Cells from rat lymph nodes draining the sites of larval migration (the skin and lungs), the liver‐lymph nodes where adults reside and the spleens were cultured to allow the in vivo‐induced antibody‐secreting cells to release antibody into the media. The amount and isotype of antibodies secreted in the supernatants differed significantly in the different lymph nodes and spleen, corresponding with the migration path of the schistosome worms. In addition, there were significant differences in binding specificity, as determined by surface labelling, western blots and by screening a glycan array. Through capturing the local antibody response, this study has revealed dramatic differences in the quality and specificity of the immune response at different tissue sites, and highlighted the existence of stage‐specific protein and carbohydrate antigens. This will provide a valuable tool for the isolation of novel vaccine targets against the larval stages of schistosomes.
Thymic epithelial β‐catenin is required for adult thymic homeostasis and function
Authors: Liang Chih‐Chia , You Li‐Ru , Yen Jeffrey JY , Liao Nan‐Shih , Yang‐Yen Hsin‐Fang , Chen Chun‐Ming
Published: July 2013

The role of β‐catenin in thymocyte development has been extensively studied, however, the function of β‐catenin in thymic epithelial cells (TECs) remains largely unclear. Here, we demonstrate a requirement for β‐catenin in keratin 5 (K5)‐expressing TECs, which comprise the majority of medullary TECs (mTECs) and a progenitor subset for cortical TECs (cTECs) in the young adult thymus. We found that conditionally ablated β‐catenin in K5+‐TECs and their progeny cells resulted in thymic atrophy. The composition of TECs was also aberrantly affected. Percentages of K5hiK8+‐TECs, K5+K8–‐TECs and UEA1+‐mTECs were significantly decreased and the percentage of K5loK8+‐TECs and Ly51+‐cTECs were increased in β‐catenin‐deficient thymi compared with that in the control thymi. We also observed that β‐catenin‐deficient TEC lineage could give rise to K8+‐cTECs more efficiently than wild‐type TECs using lineage‐tracing approach. Importantly, the expression levels of several transcription factors (p63, FoxN1 and Aire), which are essential for TEC differentiation, were altered in β‐catenin‐deficient thymi. Under the aberrant differentiation of TECs, development of all thymocytes in β‐catenin‐deficient thymi was impaired. Interleukin‐7 (IL‐7) and chemokines (Ccl19, Ccl25 and Cxcl12) levels were also downregulated in the thymic stromal cells in the mutants. Finally, introducing a BCL2 transgene in lymphoid lineages, which has been shown to rescue IL‐7‐deficient thymopoiesis, partially rescued the thymic atrophy and thymocyte development defects caused by induced ablation of β‐catenin in K5+‐TECs. Collectively, these findings suggest that β‐catenin is required for the differentiation of TECs, thereby contributing to thymocyte development in the postnatal thymus.