bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temperature changes over the past 2000 yr in China and comparison with the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Ge Q. , Hao Z. , Zheng J. , Shao X.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. We use principal component regression and partial least squares regression to separately reconstruct a composite series of temperature variations in China, and associated uncertainties, at a decadal resolution over the past 2000 yr. The reconstruction is developed using proxy temperature data with relatively high confidence levels from five regions across China, and using a temperature series from observations by the Chinese Meteorological Administration, covering the period from 1871 to 2000. Relative to the 1851–1950 climatology, our two reconstructions show four warm intervals during AD 1–AD 200, AD 551–AD 760, AD 951–AD 1320, and after AD 1921, and four cold intervals during AD 201–AD 350, AD 441–AD 530, AD 781–AD 950, and AD 1321–AD 1920. The temperatures during AD 981–AD 1100 and AD 1201–AD 1270 are comparable to those of the Present Warm Period, but have an uncertainty of ±0.28 °C to ±0.42 °C at the 95% confidence interval. Temperature variations over China are typically in phase with those of the Northern Hemisphere (NH) after 1000, a period which covers the Medieval Climate Anomaly, the Little Ice Age, and the Present Warm Period. In contrast, a warm period in China during AD 541–AD 740 is not obviously seen in the NH.
Assessment of the indirect calibration of a rainfall-runoff model for ungauged catchments in Flanders
Authors: De Vleeschouwer N. , Pauwels V. R. N.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. In this paper the potential of discharge-based indirect calibration of the probability-distributed model (PDM), a lumped rainfall-runoff (RR) model, is examined for six selected catchments in Flanders. The concept of indirect calibration indicates that one has to estimate the calibration data because the catchment is ungauged or scarcely gauged. A first case in which indirect calibration is applied is that of spatial gauging divergence: because no observed discharge records are available at the outlet of the ungauged catchment, the calibration is carried out based on a rescaled discharge time series of a very similar donor catchment. Both a calibration in the time domain and the frequency domain (also known as spectral domain) are carried out. Furthermore, the case of temporal gauging divergence is considered: limited (e.g. historical or very recent) discharge records are available at the outlet of the scarcely gauged catchment. Additionally, no time overlap exists between the forcing and discharge records. Therefore, only an indirect spectral calibration can be performed in this case. To conclude also the combination case of spatio-temporal gauging divergence is considered. In this last case only limited discharge records are available at the outlet of a donor catchment. Again the forcing and discharge records are not concomitant, which only makes feasible an indirect spectral calibration. For most catchments the modelled discharge time series is found to be acceptable in the considered cases. In the case of spatial gauging divergence, indirect temporal calibration results in a better model performance than indirect spectral calibration. Furthermore, indirect spectral calibration in the case of temporal gauging divergence leads to a better model performance than indirect spectral calibration in the case of spatial gauging divergence. Finally, the combination of spatial and temporal gauging divergence does not lead to a notably worse model performance compared to the case of spatial gauging divergence.
Assessment of MERIS ocean color data products for European seas
Authors: Zibordi G. , Mélin F. , Berthon J.-F. , Canuti E.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The accuracy of marine data products from the Medium Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MERIS) operated on board the Envisat platform is investigated with the aid of in situ geographically distributed measurements from different European seas. The assessment focuses on standard products from the 2012 data update commonly identified as 3rd Reprocessing. Results indicate atmospherically corrected data affected by a negative bias of several tens percent at the 413 nm center wavelength, significantly decreasing to a few percent at 560 nm and increasing again at 665 nm. Such an underestimate at the blue center wavelengths leads to an average overestimate of the algal-1 MERIS pigment index largely exceeding 100% for the considered European seas. A comparable overestimate is also observed for the algal-2 pigment index independently determined from top-of-atmosphere radiance through the application of neural networks.
Mass balance, runoff and surges of Bering Glacier, Alaska
Authors: Tangborn W.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The historical net, ablation and accumulation daily balances, as well as runoff of Bering Glacier, Alaska are determined for the 1951–2011 period with the PTAA (precipitation-temperature-area-altitude) model, using daily precipitation and temperature observations collected at the Cordova and Yakutat weather stations, together with the area-altitude distribution of the glacier. The model mean annual balance for this 61 yr period is −0.6 m w.e., the accumulation balance is +1.4 and the ablation balance is −2.0 m w.e. Average annual runoff is 2.5 m w.e. Periodic surges of this glacier transport large volumes of ice to lower elevations where the ablation rate is higher, producing more negative balances and increasing runoff. Runoff from Bering Glacier (derived from simulated ablation and precipitation as rain) is highly correlated with four of the glacier surges that have occurred since 1951. Ice volume loss for the 1972–2003 period measured with the PTAA model is 2.7 km3 w.e. a−1 and closely agrees with losses for the same period measured with the geodetic method. It is proposed that the timing and magnitude of daily snow accumulation and runoff, both of which are controlled by the glacier's area-altitude distribution and are calculated with the PTAA model, can be used to determine the probability that a glacier will surge.
Density assumptions for converting geodetic glacier volume change to mass change
Authors: Huss M.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The geodetic method is widely used for assessing changes in the mass balance of mountain glaciers. However, comparison of repeated digital elevation models only provides a glacier volume change that must be converted to a change in mass using a density assumption or model. This study investigates the use of a constant factor for the volume-to-mass conversion based on a firn compaction model applied to simplified glacier geometries with idealized climate forcing, and two glaciers with long-term mass balance series. It is shown that the "density" of geodetic volume change is not a constant factor and is systematically smaller than ice density in most cases. This is explained by the accretion/removal of low-density firn layers, and changes in the firn density profile with positive/negative mass balance. Assuming a value of 850 ± 60 kg m−3 to convert volume change to mass change is appropriate for a wide range of conditions. For short time intervals (≤3 yr), periods with limited volume change, and/or changing mass balance gradients, the conversion factor can however vary from 0–2000 kg m−3 and beyond, which requires caution when interpreting glacier mass changes based on geodetic surveys.
Using University-Community Partnerships to Stem Environmental Inequities and Injustice
Authors: Gallo Ralph , Amos Consuela
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this paper, therefore, is to discuss the roots of the movement by reviewing the following: (1) theoretical perspective of community engagement, (2) the environmental justice movement and (3) the challenges of the environmental justice movement that can be addressed through effective collaborations between universities and the communities they serve. A survey design was used to collect and analyze the data. Two hundred out of four hundred and twenty five participants elected to participate in this study. Statistically significant differences were found in the perceptions regarding exposure to environmental waste, preventive technology, community resources, personal access to technology, community lab access, computer training classes and empowerment through technology.
Bone Allograft in the UK: Perceptions and Realities
Authors: Lomas Richard , Chandrasekar Akila , Board Timothy N.
Published: May 2013

Bone allografts are widely used in the UK in joint revision surgery. Despite this widespread usage, there remain concerns among the surgical community regarding the safety of allografts, in terms of the risk of transmission of infection, together with a persistent misconception that allografts are in limited availability. In this paper we discuss the precautions taken to ensure that allografts are safe, and review the residual risks. We also demonstrate that the availability of allograft in the UK, both actual and potential, greatly exceeds the current clinical demand.
Ischiofemoral Impingement: A Retrospective Analysis of Cases in a Specialist Orthopaedic Centre over a Four-Year Period
Authors: Ali Adam Mohsan , Teh James , Whitwell Duncan , Ostlere Simon
Published: May 2013

Background

Ischiofemoral impingement is a recently identified cause of chronic hip pain, the pathophysiology and clinical features of which are poorly understood.

Aim

To determine the clinical significance of MRI findings of ischiofemoral impingement.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective search for cases of ischiofemoral impingement in the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, Oxford, over a 4 year period, and review of medical notes to identify correlation between clinical and MRI features.

Results

Sixteen hips in 13 patients with MRI signs of ischiofemoral impingement were identified. All patients were females with a median age of 36 years (range 17-80 years). In six patients the symptoms corresponded to the side of the quadratus femoris abnormality and narrowed ischiofemoral distance. In two patients the symptoms were on the same side as the abnormality but were more consistent with back pain and sciatica. In five patients the symptoms were not anatomically related to the abnormality. Abnormalities identified; seven patients had muscle oedema (six unilateral, one bilateral) and six had muscle wasting (four unilateral, two bilateral). Of the patients with quadratus femoris oedema, two had gluteus medius enthesopathy and one had hamstring enthesopathy. Two patients presented with a chronic loud clunking of the hip on walking.

Conclusions

Ischiofemoral impingement on MRI is seen in patients with pain localised to the ipsilateral buttock and in patients with symptoms unrelated to the abnormality. The condition may be associated with wasting or oedema of the quadratus femoris muscle on MRI and may occur secondary to injury in other muscles controlling movement of the hip such as the hamstrings and gluteus medius. Ischiofemoral impingement is a cause of a clunking hip.
Incidence of Adverse Wear Reactions in Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty: A Single Surgeon Series of 2,600 Cases
Authors: Gross Thomas P. , Liu Fei
Published: May 2013

A single surgeon performed 2,559 metal-on-metal hip resurfacing arthroplasties in 2,109 patients. The Corin Cormet 2000 (393 cases) and Biomet Recap implants (2,166 cases) were used in our series. In this study, the adverse wear failure (AWF) rate was 0.27%. At 10 years postoperatively, our Kaplan-Meier cumulative revision rate for AWF was 1% for all patients, 0.2% for men, 2.6% for women, and 9% for patients with a diagnosis of dysplasia. All AWF failures had component sizes ≤48 mm. All had metal ion levels above 15 ug/ml. All had acetabular inclination angles (AIA) ≥50° on standing pelvis radiographs. All had severe metallosis found at the time of revision. Six of the seven AWF cases were in women. There were no failures from pseudotumours without AWF (metallosis) in this series.
Amino Acid-Carbohydrate Intake Combined with Multiple Bouts of Resistance Exercise Increases Resting Energy Expenditure
Authors: Hackney Kyle J. , Kelleher Andrew R. , Ploutz-Snyder Lori L.
Published: May 2013

Increasing the rate of muscle protein synthesis is an energy consuming process that explains the acute elevations in resting energy expenditure (REE) observed 12 to 72 hours after a resistance exercise session. We hypothesized that multiple sessions of resistance exercise combined with the intake of amino acids would increase REE and alter the nonprotein respiratory exchange ratio (RER). Ten male participants completed two separate seven-day trials where REE and RER were measured on each morning via indirect calorimetry. On four consecutive days within each seven-day trial, acute resistance exercise was performed, and nutritional intake was manipulated by providing (1) amino acids and carbohydrate (AA-RT) or (2) nonnitrogenous, isoenergetic carbohydrate (CHO-RT) before and during each resistance exercise session. Average REE within the training period was 3.61% greater in AA-RT (7897 ± 252 kJ) compared to CHO-RT (7622 ± 289 kJ; P=0.02). RER declined (P<0.0001) from baseline after each resistance exercise was initiated in both AA-RT (0.82 ± 0.01 to 0.77 ± 0.01) and CHO-RT (0.82 ± 0.02 to 0.77 ± 0.02). We conclude the provision of amino acids with multiple bouts of resistance exercise enhances energy expenditure at rest without altering the utilization of lipid.
Knowledge, Perception and Adaptation Strategies to Climate Change Among Farmers of Central State Nigeria
Authors: Bello Mustapha , S. Salau E. , Galadima O. E. , I. Ali
Published: May 2013

This study was designed to assess the knowledge, perception and adaptation strategies to climate change among farmers of central Nigeria. Multi-Stage sampling technique was used to source respondents for the study. Three out of the five local government areas (LGAs) were randomly selected in the study area. Five village communities were randomly selected from each of the five LGAs to give fifteen villages, while 10 farmers were also randomly selected from each village to give 150 respondents. Data collection was through an interview schedule. Simple descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentage and mean scores were used to achieve all the objectives of the study. Most of the respondents relied on radio as their major source of information on climate change. The perceived indicators of climate change by the respondents were excessive high temperatures, low and irregular rainfall pattern as well as low crop yields. Adaptation strategies used in the area included agroforestry practices, crop diversification, early maturing and disease/drought resistant varieties. The Major constraints to adaptation by the respondents were inadequate finance, poor infrastructures, unfavourable government/trade policies and poor technology. Extension agents in the study area should incorporate information on climate change in their extension messages.
An Algorithmic Approach to Total Breast Reconstruction with Free Tissue Transfer
Authors: Yu Seong Cheol , Kleiber Grant M. , Song David H.
Published: May 2013

As microvascular techniques continue to improve, perforator flap free tissue transfer is now the gold standard for autologous breast reconstruction. Various options are available for breast reconstruction with autologous tissue. These include the free transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap, deep inferior epigastric perforator flap, superficial inferior epigastric artery flap, superior gluteal artery perforator flap, and transverse/vertical upper gracilis flap. In addition, pedicled flaps can be very successful in the right hands and the right patient, such as the pedicled TRAM flap, latissimus dorsi flap, and thoracodorsal artery perforator. Each flap comes with its own advantages and disadvantages related to tissue properties and donor-site morbidity. Currently, the problem is how to determine the most appropriate flap for a particular patient among those potential candidates. Based on a thorough review of the literature and accumulated experiences in the author's institution, this article provides a logical approach to autologous breast reconstruction. The algorithms presented here can be helpful to customize breast reconstruction to individual patient needs.
The Effects of Polydeoxyribonucleotide on the Survival of Random Pattern Skin Flaps in Rats
Authors: Chung Kun Il , Kim Han Koo , Kim Woo Seob , Bae Tae Hui
Published: May 2013

Background Partial or complete necrosis of a skin flap is a common problem. Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) can be extracted from trout sperm and used as a tissue repair agent. The aim of this study was to investigate whether PDRN could improve the survival of random pattern skin flaps in rats.

Methods Twenty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into two groups: the PDRN treatment group (n=11) and the control group (n=11). Caudally pedicled random pattern skin flaps were elevated on their dorsal skin and resutured. The treatment group received daily intraperitoneal administration of PDRN (8 mg/kg/day), and the control group received fluid vehicle (NaCl 0.9%, 8 mg/kg/day) from day 0 to day 6. On day 7, the flap survival was evaluated and the harvested tissue surrounding the demarcation line of the necrotic area was stained with H&E, anti-rat vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) antibody, and PECAM-1/CD31 antibody.

Results The average necrotic area of the flap in the PDRN group was significantly smaller when compared with that of the control group. Histologic and immunohistochemical evaluation showed that granulation thickness score and VEGF-positive staining cells were marked higher in the PDRN group than in the control group. PECAM-1/CD31-positive microvascular densities were significantly higher in the PDRN group when compared with the control group.

Conclusions This study confirms that PDRN improves the survival of random pattern skin flaps in rats. These results may represent a new therapeutic approach to enhancing flap viability and achieving faster wound repair.
The Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator and Pedicled Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap in Breast Reconstruction: A Comparative Study
Authors: Tan Shane , Lim Jane , Yek Jacklyn , Ong Wei Chen , Hing Chor Hoong , Lim Thiam Chye
Published: May 2013

Background Our objective was to compare the complication rates of two common breast reconstruction techniques performed at our hospital and the cost-effectiveness for each test group.

Methods All patients who underwent deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap and transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap by the same surgeon were selected and matched according to age and mastectomy with or without axillary clearance. Patients from each resultant group were selected, with the patients matched chronologically. The remainder were matched for by co-morbidities. Sixteen patients who underwent immediate breast reconstruction with pedicled TRAM flaps and 16 patients with DIEP flaps from 1999 to 2006 were accrued. The average total hospitalisation cost, length of hospitalisation, and complications in the 2 year duration after surgery for each group were compared.

Results Complications arising from both the pedicled TRAM flaps and DIEP flaps included fat necrosis (TRAM, 3/16; DIEP, 4/16) and other minor complications (TRAM, 3/16; DIEP, 1/16). The mean hospital stay was 7.13 days (range, 4 to 12 days) for the pedicled TRAM group and 7.56 (range, 5 to 10 days) for the DIEP group. Neither the difference in complication rates nor in hospital stay duration were statistically significant. The total hospitalisation cost for the DIEP group was significantly higher than that of the pedicled TRAM group (P<0.001).

Conclusions Based on our study, the pedicled TRAM flap remains a cost-effective technique in breast reconstruction when compared to the newer, more expensive and tedious DIEP flap.
Second Toe Plantar Free Flap for Volar Tissue Defects of the Fingers
Authors: Cho Yong Jin , Roh Si Young , Kim Jin Soo , Lee Dong Chul , Yang Jae Won
Published: May 2013

Background The reconstruction of volar surface defects is difficult because of the special histologic nature of the tissue involved. The plantar surface is the most homologous in shape and function and could be considered the most ideal of reconstructive options in select cases of volar surface defects. In this paper, we evaluate a single institutional case series of volar tissue defects managed with second toe plantar free flaps.

Methods A single-institution retrospective review was performed on 12 cases of reconstruction using a second toe plantar free flap. The mean age was 33 years (range, 9 to 54 years) with a male-to-female ratio of 5-to-1. The predominant mechanism was crush injury (8 cases) followed by amputations (3 cases) and a single case of burn injury. Half of the indications (6 cases) were for soft-tissue defects with the other half for scar contracture.

Results All of the flaps survived through the follow-up period. Sensory recovery was related to the time interval between injury and reconstruction-with delayed operations portending worse outcomes. There were no postoperative complications in this series.

Conclusions Flexion contracture is the key functional deficit of volar tissue defects. The second toe plantar free flap is the singular flap whose histology most closely matches those of the original volar tissue. In our experience, this flap is the superior reconstructive option within the specific indications dictated by the defect size and location.
Giant Lipoma of the Breast
Authors: Ramírez-Montaño Luis , Vargas-Tellez Erik , Dajer-Fadel Walid L , Espinosa Maceda Silvia
Published: May 2013

Lipomas are benign mesenchymal tumors that develop in areas of abundant adipose tissue. Due to the fatty composition of the breast, difficulties in diagnosis, treatment, and reconstruction are often encountered. We report a case of a 55-year-old female with a giant tumor of the right breast that comprised most of its mass, causing breast asymmetry. A thorough preoperative evaluation, followed by an uneventful difficult surgical resection and reconstruction, resulted in diagnosis of a benign lipoma. The case prompted this report because of its challenging size, location, diagnosis, and reconstructive solution.
Anterograde Intra-Arterial Urokinase Injection for Salvaging Fibular Free Flap
Authors: Lee Dae-Sung , Jung Sun-Il , Kim Deok-Woo , Dhong Eun-Sang
Published: May 2013

We present a case of a 57-year-old male patient who presented with squamous cell carcinoma on his mouth floor with cervical and mandibular metastases. Wide glossectomy with intergonial mandibular ostectomy, and sequential reconstruction using fibular osteomyocutaneous free flap were planned. When the anastomosis between the peroneal artery of the fibular free flap and the right lingual artery was performed, no venous flow was observed at the vena comitans. Then re-anastomosis followed by topical application of papaverine and lidocaine was attempted. However, the blood supply was not recovered. Warm saline irrigation over 30 minutes was also useless. Microvascular thromboses of donor vessels were clinically suspected, so a solution of 100,000 units of urokinase was infused once through a 26-gauge angiocatheter inserted into the recipient artery just at the arterial anastomotic site, until the solution gushed out through the flap vena comitans. Immediately after the application of urokinase, arterial flow and venous return were restored. There were no complications during the follow-up period of 11 months. We believe that vibrating injuries from the reciprocating saw during osteotomies and flap insetting might be the cause of microvascular thromboses. The use of urokinase may provide a viable option for the treatment of suspicious intraoperative arterial thrombosis.
Variation de la pratique réflexive entre les contextes académique et pratique en stage d’enseignement
Authors: Collin Simon
Published: May 2013

Le stage d’enseignement est fréquemment considéré comme une période particulièrement propice au développement de la pratique réflexive. Souhaitant contribuer à cette réflexion, l’objectif de cet article vise à mieux comprendre la variation de la pratique réflexive des enseignants stagiaires suivant les contextes académique et pratique. Pour ce faire, nous présentons une recherche qualitative, dont l’analyse thématique d’entrevues nous a permis de relever des variations contextuelles de la pratique réflexive à trois plans distincts : la motivation et la finalité ; les acteurs soutenant la pratique réflexive ; enfin, les modalités d’interaction entre les acteurs.
The Role of Reflection in Addressing the Social Responsibility Mandate of Teacher Education
Authors: Falkenberg Thomas
Published: May 2013

This article makes the case that a teacher’s personal qualities should be considered to be of great importance to being a teacher and that pre- and inservice teacher education has a social responsibility mandate. Developing personal qualities in teacher education is an important way in which teacher education can address its social responsibility mandate and, conversely, this mandate can provide the perspective from which the value of teacher’s personal qualities for teaching can be judged. Finally, the article discusses the role of reflective thinking and reflective practice in addressing the social responsibility mandate of teacher education and identifies characteristics of reflective practices that seem particularly suitable for developing a teacher’s personal qualities relevant for addressing the social responsibility mandate of teacher education.
Disclosure of HIV status to children in resource‐limited settings: a systematic review
Authors: Vreeman Rachel C , Gramelspacher Anna Maria , Gisore Peter O , Scanlon Michael L , Nyandiko Winstone M
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Informing children of their own HIV status is an important aspect of long‐term disease management, yet there is little evidence of how and when this type of disclosure takes place in resource‐limited settings and its impact.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Databases were searched for the terms hiv AND disclos* AND (child* OR adolesc*). We reviewed 934 article citations and the references of relevant articles to find articles describing disclosure to children and adolescents in resource‐limited settings. Data were extracted regarding prevalence of disclosure, factors influencing disclosure, process of disclosure and impact of disclosure on children and caregivers.

Results

Thirty‐two articles met the inclusion criteria, with 16 reporting prevalence of disclosure. Of these 16 studies, proportions of disclosed children ranged from 0 to 69.2%. Important factors influencing disclosure included the child's age and perceived ability to understand the meaning of HIV infection and factors related to caregivers, such as education level, openness about their own HIV status and beliefs about children's capacities. Common barriers to disclosure were fear that the child would disclose HIV status to others, fear of stigma and concerns for children's emotional or physical health. Disclosure was mostly led by caregivers and conceptualized as a one‐time event, while others described it as a gradual process. Few studies measured the impact of disclosure on children. Findings suggested adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) improved post‐disclosure but the emotional and psychological effects of disclosure were variable.

Conclusions

Most studies show that a minority of HIV‐infected children in resource‐limited settings know his/her HIV status. While caregivers identify many factors that influence disclosure, studies suggest both positive and negative effects for children. More research is needed to implement age‐ and culture‐appropriate disclosure in resource‐limited settings.
Systemic mastocytosis in adults: 2013 update on diagnosis, risk stratification, and management
Authors: Pardanani Animesh
Published: May 2013

Disease overview:

Systemic mastocytosis (SM) results from a clonal proliferation of abnormal mast cells (MC) in one or more extracutaneous organs.

Diagnosis:

The major criterion is presence of multifocal clusters of morphologically abnormal MC in the bone marrow. Minor diagnostic criteria include elevated serum tryptase level, abnormal MC expression of CD25 and/or CD2, and presence of KITD816V.

Risk stratification:

The 2008 World Health Organization (WHO) classification of SM has been shown to be prognostically relevant. Classification of SM patients into indolent (SM), aggressive SM (ASM), SM associated with a clonal non‐MC lineage disease (SM‐AHNMD) and mast cell leukemia (MCL) subgroups is a useful first step in establishing prognosis.

Management:

SM treatment is generally palliative. ISM patients have a normal life expectancy and receive symptom‐directed therapy; infrequently, cytoreductive therapy may be indicated for refractory symptoms. ASM patients have disease‐related organ dysfunction; interferon‐α (±corticosteroids) can control dermatological, hematological, gastrointestinal, skeletal, and mediator‐release symptoms, but is hampered by poor tolerability. Similarly, cladribine has broad therapeutic activity, with particular utility when rapid MC debulking is indicated; the main toxicity is myelosuppression. Imatinib has a therapeutic role in the presence of an imatinib‐sensitive KIT mutation or in KITD816‐unmutated patients. Treatment of SM‐AHNMD is governed primarily by the non‐MC neoplasm; hydroxyurea has modest utility in this setting.

Investigational drugs:

Dasatinib's in vitro anti‐ KITD816V activity has not translated into significant therapeutic activity in most SM patients. In contrast, recently updated data confirms Midostaurin's significant anti‐MC activity in patients with advanced SM. Am. J. Hematol. 88:612–624, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Laser spectroscopy of muonic hydrogen
Authors: Pohl Randolf , Antognini Aldo , Amaro Fernando D. , Biraben François , Cardoso João M. R. , Covita Daniel S. , Dax Andreas , Dhawan Satish , Diepold Marc , Fernandes Luis M. P. , Giesen Adolf , Gouvea Andrea L. , Graf Thomas , Hänsch Theodor W. , Indelicato Paul , Julien Lucile , Kao Cheng‐Yang , Knowles Paul , Lopes José A. M. , Le Bigot Eric‐Olivier , Liu Yi‐Wei , Ludhova Livia , Monteiro Cristina M. B. , Mulhauser Françoise , Nebel Tobias , Nez François , Rabinowitz Paul , Santos Joaquim M. F. dos , Schaller Lukas A. , Schuhmann Karsten , Schwob Catherine , Taqqu David , Veloso João F. C. A. , Vogelsang Jan , Kottmann Franz
Published: May 2013

Muonic hydrogen (μp) is a very sensitive probe of the proton structure. Laser spectroscopy of two 2S‐2P transitions in μp was used to determine both the Lamb shift and the hyperfine splitting of the 2S state in μp. The rms charge radius of the proton, fm, was extracted from the Lamb shift. The Zemach radius of the proton, fm, was obtained from the 2S‐hyperfine splitting. This article summarizes the previously published findings.
Preparation and properties of composites based on melamine‐formaldehyde foam and nano‐Fe3O4
Authors: Zhang Yusen , Duan Hongdong , Wang Xingjian , Meng Xia , Qin Dawei
Published: May 2013

In this work, a novel melamine‐formaldehyde‐Fe3O4foam was prepared from a mixture containing melamine‐ethanolamine‐formaldehyde resin, melamine‐glycol‐formaldehyde resin and carboxylated Fe3O4nanoparticles by microwave foaming method. The two resins were characterized by13C‐NMR, respectively. The structures of foams, mechanical and fire‐retardant properties were experimentally characterized separately by scanning electron microscopy, universal testing machine, limit oxygen index, thermogravimetry‐differential thermal analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectra. The effects of the resin viscosity, emulsifier, nucleating agent, curing agent, silicone oil, microwave heating time and blowing agent on the structure of foam were investigated. Results showed that the properties of foam were decided by not only the molecular structure but also structure of foam, and the carboxylated Fe3O4nanoparticles can improve the toughness and flame retardant properties of magnetic foam obviously from both aspects. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2688–2697, 2013
Resveratrol Derived Butyrylcholinesterase Inhibitors
Authors: Csuk René , Albert Sabrina , Kluge Ralph , Ströhl Dieter
Published: May 2013

Novel polyhydroxylated (E)‐stilbenes were synthesized by Mizoroki–Heck reactions and tested for their ability to inhibit the enzymes acetyl‐ and butyrylcholinesterase. Several of them are good inhibitors of butyrylcholinesterase; one of them carrying an extra fluorine substituent is a 94‐fold stronger inhibitor of butyrylcholinesterase than of acetylcholinesterase.
Arrhenius thermodynamics and birth defects: Chemical teratogen synergy. Untested, testable, and projected relevance
Authors: Miller Morton W. , Church Charles C.
Published: May 2013

This article addresses the issue of hyperthermia‐induced birth defects with an accompanying additional teratogen, be it a chemical or a physical agent (i.e., a simultaneous “combinational” exposure to two teratogens, one of which is hyperthermia). Hyperthermia per se is a recognized human and animal teratogen. An excellent example of such combinational exposures is an epileptic woman who becomes pregnant while taking valproic acid (VPA) to control seizures. VPA is a recognized chemical teratogen, and fever (hyperthermia) is not an uncommon event during pregnancy. While VPA also may occasionally induce fever as a side effect, we are concerned here with fevers arising from other, unrelated causes. There is a small but internally consistent literature on these combinational‐teratogen exposures involving hyperthermia plus a chemical teratogen; in each instance, the effect level has been observed to be synergistically elevated above levels induced by the separate teratogenic components. The data were empirical. The observed synergy is, however, consistent with Arrhenius thermodynamics, a well‐known chemical rate equation. The need for information about combinational teratogen exposures is acute; fever is a common occurrence during pregnancy; and there are many instances whereby there is also the simultaneous presence of some other teratogen(s). Given that the rate of autism spectrum disorders in the United States was recently presented as 1 in 88 births, it seems reasonable to suspect that such combinational regimens are much more prevalent than previously thought. Our hypothesis is that synergistic birth defect levels from combinational regimens are consistent with Arrhenius thermodynamics. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 99:50–60, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Potential risk of asthma associated with in utero exposure to xenobiotics
Authors: Selgrade MaryJane K. , Blain Robyn B. , Fedak Kristen M. , Cawley Michelle A.
Published: May 2013

The incidence of asthma, a complex disease and significant public health problem, has been increasing over the last 30 years for unknown reasons. Changes in environmental exposures or lifestyle may be involved. In some cases asthma may originate in utero or in early life. Associations have been found between in utero exposures to several xenobiotics and increased risk of asthma. There is convincing evidence that maternal smoking and/or in utero and perinatal exposure to environmental tobacco smoke are associated with increased risk of asthma. Similar effects have been demonstrated in animal models of allergic asthma. Evidence also suggests that in utero and/or early‐life exposures to various ambient air pollutants may increase the risk of asthma although supporting animal data are very limited. A few studies have suggested that in utero exposure to acetaminophen is associated with increased risk of asthma; however, animal data are lacking. Various vitamin deficiencies and supplements during pregnancy have been studied. In general, it appears that vitamins A, C, and E have protective effects and vitamins D and B may, in some instances, increase the risk, but the data are not conclusive. Some studies related to in utero exposures to polychlorinated biphenyls and bisphenol A and asthma risk are also reported. The underlying mechanisms for an association between xenobiotic exposures and asthma remain a matter of speculation. Genetic predisposition and epigenetic changes have been explored. The developing immune, respiratory, and nervous systems are potential targets. Oxidative stress and modulation of inflammation are thought to be involved. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 99:1–13, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Landmark Lipid‐Lowering Trials in the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Chrispin Jonathan , Martin Seth S. , Hasan Rani K. , Joshi Parag H. , Minder C. Michael , McEvoy John W. , Kohli Payal , Johnson Amber E. , Wang Libin , Blaha Michael J. , Blumenthal Roger S.
Published: May 2013

Although atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in the world, the long disease latency affords ample opportunity for preventive care. Indeed, lifelong exposure to atherogenic apoliprotein B‐containing lipoproteins has consistently been shown to increase the cumulative risk of suffering a CVD event, including myocardial infarction, stroke, and symptomatic peripheral arterial disease. Over the past 25 years, lipid‐lowering therapies have been developed that are proven to not only lower cholesterol, but also to decrease adverse CVD events and CVD mortality. This review will highlight several key clinical trials encompassing several classes of lipid‐lowering medications that have provided clinicians with an evidence‐based framework for managing their patients' cardiovascular risk.
The bit‐economy: An artificial model of open‐ended technology discovery
Authors: Angus Simon D. , Newnham Andrew
Published: May 2013

We describe and demonstrate an artificial model of technology discovery called the Bit‐Economy. The model is built from a minimal set of fundamental hallmarks of technology and develops under an open‐ended evolutionary operator which rewards new technology which is able to coordinate both spatially and temporally with the existing technology set. The Bit‐Economy, is able to replicate several features of real technology development including nonmonotonic growth, bunching of creation and destruction events, qualitative topologies of patent networks, and efficiency and waste‐management gains. In contrast to related works, we do not apply an exogenous fitness landscape and so are able to study the process of technology discovery as a self‐guided search toward more complex outcomes. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 18: 57–67, 2013
Writing in Dyslexia: Product and Process
Authors: Morken Frøydis , Helland Turid
Published: May 2013

Research on dyslexia has largely centred on reading. The aim of this study was to assess the writing of 13 children with and 28 without dyslexia at age 11 years. A programme for keystroke logging was used to allow recording of typing activity as the children performed a sentence dictation task. Five sentences were read aloud twice each. The task was to type the sentence as correctly as possible, with no time constraints. The data were analysed from a product (spelling, grammar and semantics) and process (transcription fluency and revisions) perspective, using repeated measures ANOVA and t‐tests to investigate group differences. Furthermore, the data were correlated with measures of rapid automatic naming and working memory. Results showed that the group with dyslexia revised their texts as much as the typical group, but they used more time, and the result was poorer. Moreover, rapid automatic naming correlated with transcription fluency, and working memory correlated with the number of semantic errors. This shows that dyslexia is generally not an issue of effort and that cognitive skills that are known to be important for reading also affect writing. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of good manufacturing practices on the shelf life of refrigerated fillets of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) packed in modified atmosphere and gamma‐irradiated
Authors: Monteiro Maria Lúcia Guerra , Mársico Eliane Teixeira , Mano Sérgio Borges , Teixeira Claudia Emília , Canto Anna Carolina Vilhena da Cruz Silva , de Carvalho Vital Helio , Conte‐Júnior Carlos Adam
Published: May 2013

This study evaluated the influence of good manufacturing practices (GMP) on the shelf life of refrigerated fillets of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) packed in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and irradiated. In a first series of experiments, 120 tilapia fillets kept under controlled sanitary conditions were purchased from a fish market managed by a cooperative. A second lot totaling 200 tilapia fillets was obtained under controlled storage conditions from a pilot plant. The combined effects of MAP (40% CO2 and 60% N2) and irradiation (1.5 kGy) were investigated by monitoring physical and chemical (total volatile bases and pH), bacteriological (aerobic heterotrophic mesophilic and psychrophilic bacteria) and sensory (acceptance test) changes in the samples. The quality of samples decreased with storage time regardless of the treatment, remaining higher in fillets produced in the pilot plant in comparison with the commercially produced fillets. The observed shelf life of nonirradiated commercially produced fillets was only 3 days, compared to 8 days for those produced in the pilot plant, probably due to GMP in the latter. It was concluded that, even with a combination of proven conservation methods for meats, the adoption of good manufacturing practices still remains essential before, during, and after the filleting process in order to ensure the effectiveness of the entire treatment.
Characterization of nociceptive behavioural responses in the awake pig following UV–B‐induced inflammation
Authors: Di Giminiani P. , Petersen L.J. , Herskin M.S.
Published: May 2013

Background

Among the current translational inflammatory pain models, the ultraviolet (UV) irradiation is of rapidly growing interest. The development of primary thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia has been observed in humans and rodents. The pig as a translational animal model might be advantageous due to its great homology with humans.

Methods

The skin in the flank of awake pigs was irradiated by a UV‐B light source (1 J/cm2) and changes in thermal and mechanical sensitivity 24 and 48 h following irradiation were measured via assessment of nociceptive behaviours.

Results

Thermal sensitivity increased significantly within the inflamed site 24 h after irradiation as indicated by the reduction of latency to respond to thermal stimulation from baseline to 24 h (P < 0.05). At 48 h, the response latency had not decreased any further (P = 0.414). Thermal sensitivity was also higher at the inflamed skin site than at the control site 24 and 48 h following irradiation (P < 0.05). An overall decrease of 50% of the baseline mechanical threshold was observed 24 and 48 h following UV‐B irradiation (P = 0.092). Following the inflammatory challenge, the mechanical sensitivity was higher at the site of irradiation compared with the control skin at both 24 and 48 h (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our study shows that behavioural recordings are a valid tool for the assessment of thermal hyperalgesia following UV‐B inflammation in porcine skin, but they were not capable of providing a clear indication of the development of mechanical hyperalgesia.
In vitro exposure to cigarette smoke induces oxidative stress in follicular cells of F1 hybrid mice
Authors: Siddique Shabana , Sadeu Jean C. , Foster Warren G. , Feng Yong‐lai , Zhu Jiping
Published: May 2013

This study assessed the influence of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) and benzo(a)pyrene [B(a)P] on the levels of two oxidative stress biomarkers [8‐isoprostane (8‐IsoP) and 8‐hydroxy‐2‐deoxy Guanosine (8‐OH‐dG)], in in‐vitro spent media of follicle cells. Follicles (100–130 µm) isolated from ovaries of F1 hybrid (C57Bl/6j × CBA/Ca) mice were cultured for 13 days in media exposed to B(a)P [0 ng ml–1 (control) to 45 ng ml–1] or CSC [0 µg ml–1 (control) to 130 µg ml–1]. The concentrations of oxidative stress biomarkers in spent media were quantified by enzyme‐linked immune sorbent assays (ELISA). CSC and B(a)P treatment induced a significant, dose‐dependent increase in the concentrations of 8‐IsoP and 8‐OH‐dG in the spent media. We conclude that CSC and B(a)P exposure can induce oxidative stress in ovarian follicles, an effect that may contribute to the previously documented decline in follicle development and premature ovarian failure in women who smoke. © Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada 2013.
Electricity production from synthesis gas in a multi‐electrode microbial fuel cell
Authors: Hussain Abid , Raghavan Vijaya , Guiot Serge R. , Tartakovsky Boris
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

Electricity production in single‐anode/cathode MFCs fed with simulated synthesis gas (syngas) as the sole electron donor has recently been demonstrated. This study evaluated the ability of a multi‐anode/cathode MFC fed with syngas to achieve improved volumetric efficiency at several operating temperatures and electrode arrangements.

RESULTS

A maximum power density of 33 mW (normalized to the anodic compartment volume) and a coulombic efficiency (CE) of 43% was achieved at an operating temperature of 37°C. MFC operation at 50°C resulted in a much lower power density of 10 mW and a CE of 15%. The MFC power density was greatly impacted by the electrode arrangement and the highest power density was achieved in a three anode–two cathode (3A‐2C) arrangement.

CONCLUSION

The multi‐electrode design enhanced the performance of a syngas‐fed MFC, which could have major economic and operational implications for designing large‐scale syngas‐fed MFCs. The MFC performance at elevated temperatures was restricted by low microbial activity, implying that a thermophilic rather than a mesophilic inoculum might be required for successful operation under thermophilic conditions. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
AN ISLAND DRIFTING APART. WHY HAITI IS MIRED IN POVERTY WHILE THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC FORGES AHEAD
Authors: Frankema Ewout , Masé Aline
Published: May 2013

The 2010 earthquake in Haiti has exposed the extreme vulnerability of a society where the state and the economy simultaneously fail to deliver. The Dominican Republic has witnessed several phases of rapid economic growth since the 1870s and, from the 1970s onwards, a sustained process of political emancipation. Douglas North, John Wallis and Barry Weingast have developed a conceptual framework to explain different long‐term performance characteristics of societies, which we apply to the case of Hispaniola. We argue that it captures the internal logic of the political economy of both societies but fails to account for the effect of different foreign relations. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.