bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early first‐trimester free‐β‐hCG and PAPP‐A serum distributions in monochorionic and dichorionic twins
Authors: Prats Pilar , Rodríguez Ignacio , Nicolau Joan , Comas Carmina
Published: February 2012

Objective

To examine the distribution of first‐trimester biochemical markers of aneuploidy in twins according to chorionicity.

Methods

Maternal serum free‐β‐human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and pregnancy‐associated plasma protein A (PAPP‐A) were measured between 8–13 + 6 weeks as a part of a routine first‐trimester screening program in conjunction with fetal nuchal translucency measured at 11 to 13 + 6 weeks’ gestation. Data from 279 twin pregnancies were extracted from our fetal databases. Down syndrome cases were excluded. Individual marker concentrations were expressed as weight, ethnicity, smoking and maternal diabetes corrected. To compare the distributions of the biochemical parameters, a generalized additive model was used adjusted to a smoothing regression model with the values transformed with base 10'' logarithm using R software (generalized additive model‐smoothing spline regression).

Results

Free‐β‐hCG and PAPP‐A distributions, analyzed with a generalized additive model adjusted to a smoothing regression model, were significantly different depending on the chorionicity. We graphically displayed the relationship between the predicted concentration of the free‐β‐hCG and PAPP‐A and the gestational age in days for monochorionic and dichorionic twins adjusted by weight.

Conclusion

Pregnancy‐associated plasma protein A and free‐β‐hCG values are gestational age specific. It is necessary to make a distinction between monochorionic and dichorionic twins because biochemical markers are lower in monochorionic than in dichorionic twins. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acetaminophen overdose in the Military Health System
Authors: Taylor Lockwood G. , Xie Suji , Meyer Tamra E. , Coster Trinka S.
Published: February 2012

Purpose

We report the annual trend, distribution, and determinants of acetaminophen overdose using data from the Military Health System. We also assess the proportion of individuals with an acetaminophen overdose who received a prescription for any acetaminophen‐containing medication prior to their event.

Methods

Diagnostic International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision (ICD‐9) codes from inpatient medical encounters were used to identify patients with acetaminophen overdose. We used Poisson regression to estimate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) for associations between selected socio‐demographic characteristics and acetaminophen overdose. Pharmacy records for individuals with an acetaminophen overdose were obtained to evaluate the proportion who received a prescription for any acetaminophen‐containing medication prior to their overdose.

Results

Annual age‐adjusted and sex‐adjusted prevalence of acetaminophen overdose increased by 38.5% from 2004 to 2008. Acetaminophen overdose was significantly more common in female subjects than in male subjects (aPR = 3.24, 95%CI = 2.97–3.55). Individuals aged 15–17 and 18–24 also were significantly more likely to have an overdose compared with those aged 45–64 (aPR = 6.06, 95%CI = 5.25–7.00 and aPR = 4.58, 95%CI = 4.01–5.23, respectively). Among active duty service members, acetaminophen overdose was six times more common in junior enlisted service members than in officers (aPR = 6.06, 95%CI = 3.90–9.40). The proportion of individuals with an inpatient overdose who had any prescription for an acetaminophen‐containing medication in the 365, 30, and 7 days before the overdose was 53.3%, 23.7%, and 16.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

Identification of at‐risk populations will aid the military in ongoing efforts to decrease medication misuse. Findings suggest a potential need for improved labeling of over‐the‐counter medications and medication safety education efforts for unintentional acetaminophen overdose and continued efforts to identify individuals at risk for intentional overdose. Published 2012. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
High‐efficiency CIGS submodules
Authors: Komaki Hironori , Furue Shigenori , Yamada Akimasa , Ishizuka Shogo , Shibata Hajime , Matsubara Koji , Niki Shigeru
Published: February 2012

The approaches and achievements in the development of high‐efficiency CuInGaSe2 (CIGS) monolithically integrated submodules will be reported. Two types of techniques, the conventional (batch‐process) and the in‐line three‐stage evaporation techniques, have been employed to deposit high‐quality CIGS absorbers on 10 × 10‐cm Mo/soda lime glass substrates. CIGS films deposited by both the conventional and the in‐line evaporation techniques showed an in‐depth compositional grading of In and Ga (referred as the double graded bandgap) which is a fingerprint of the three‐stage evaporation process. The optimization of the integration processes such as mechanical scribing, as well as the improvement in electrical and optical properties of ZnO window layers, made possible the demonstration of high‐efficency CIGS submodules with efficiencies as high as η = 16.6% (aperture area: 67.2 cm2) and η = 15.8% (aperture area: 76.5 cm2) for the conventional and the in‐line evaporation process, respectively. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Relationship between pre‐intervention data and post‐intervention reading fluency and growth: A meta‐analysis of assessment data for individual students
Authors: Scholin Sarah E. , Burns Matthew K.
Published: February 2012

Curriculum‐based measurement is commonly used within a response‐to‐intervention framework to assess the effectiveness of intervention and to triage students into intervention tiers (e.g., the lowest 10% receive a Tier 3 intervention, and those in the 11th to 25th percentiles receive a Tier 2 intervention). We conducted a meta‐analysis of 18 studies to examine the relationship between pre‐intervention assessments and post‐intervention level and growth in reading fluency. The results indicated that several pre‐intervention measures were moderately related to post‐intervention fluency, but only a percentage of comprehension questions answered during baseline assessments, reading fluency age or grade‐based standard scores (SS), and word attack SS resulted in even a small to moderate relationship with reading growth. Moreover, there was no significant difference between the correlation of any two pre‐intervention measures with reading growth, which suggested that all of the measures were equally poorly related to reading growth. Implications for research and practice are discussed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fidelity of implementation framework: A critical need for response to intervention models
Authors: Keller‐Margulis Milena A.
Published: February 2012

Response to Intervention (RtI) has gained increased attention with the reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act. Since RtI was introduced at the policy level as a mechanism for use in the learning disability identification process, much of the implementation work has focused on this application. School‐based implementation of RtI has occurred quickly in response to federal legislation, with little focus on fidelity. Regular and consistent monitoring of implementation fidelity can provide the data required to improve implementation and student performance. This discussion will include a brief review of the literature regarding implementation fidelity and then provide a framework for designing a fidelity system for RtI models. Further systematic research in this area is needed to support the RtI implementation that is currently under way in schools across the country. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conducting process hazard analysis to facilitate layers of protection analysis
Authors: Baybutt Paul
Published: February 2012

Many process hazard analyses (PHAs) provide insufficient detail to be able to perform layers of protection analysis (LOPA) studies properly using their results. LOPA teams experience difficulties, when PHA studies are performed without regard to the information needed for LOPA. The LOPA team must develop any needed information missing from the PHA. Not only does this require additional time and effort but it also detracts from performing LOPA. Furthermore, the LOPA results may be inaccurate, as the LOPA team may not develop hazard scenarios correctly. This article provides guidelines for PHA worksheet entries that help avoid these problems to ensure efficient and effective LOPA studies. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2012
Ecdysteroid receptor docking suggests that dibenzoylhydrazine‐based insecticides are devoid of any deleterious effect on the parasitic wasp Psyttalia concolor (Hym. Braconidae)
Authors: Bengochea Paloma , Christiaens Olivier , Amor Fermín , Viñuela Elisa , Rougé Pierre , Medina Pilar , Smagghe Guy
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: The moulting accelerating compounds (MACs) or ecdysteroid agonists represent a selective group of insecticides acting upon binding to the ecdysteroid receptor (EcR) and leading to lethal premature moulting in larval stages and aborted reproduction in adults. Psyttalia concolor Szèpl. is a useful parasitic wasp attacking important tephritid pests such as the medfly and olive fruit fly.

RESULTS: Contact and oral exposure in the laboratory of female parasitic wasps to the dibenzoylhydrazine‐based methoxyfenozide, tebufenozide and RH‐5849 did not provoke negative effects. No mortality and no reduction in beneficial capacity were observed. The ligand‐binding domain (LBD) of the EcR of P. concolor was sequenced, and a homology protein model was constructed which confirmed a cavity structure with 12 α‐helices, harbouring the natural insect moulting hormone 20‐hydroxyecdysone. However, a steric clash occurred for the MAC insecticides owing to a restricted extent of the ligand‐binding cavity of the PcLBD‐EcR, while they did dock well in that of susceptible insects.

CONCLUSIONS: The insect toxicity assays demonstrated that MACs are selective for P. concolor. The modelling/docking experiments are indications that these insecticides do not bind with the LBD‐EcR of P. concolor and support the theory that they show no biological effects in the parasitic wasp. These data may help in explaining the compatible use of MACs together with parasitic wasps in IPM programmes. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Magnetotransport study on AlInN/(GaN)/AlN/GaN heterostructures
Authors: Bayraklı Aydın , Arslan Engin , Fırat Tezer , Özcan Şadan , Kazar Özgür , Çakmak Hüseyin , Özbay Ekmel
Published: February 2012

We report the effect of a thin GaN (2 nm) interlayer on the magnetotransport properties of AlInN/AlN/GaN‐based heterostructures. Two samples were prepared (Sample A: AlInN/AlN/GaN and sample B: AlInN/GaN/AlN/GaN). Van der Pauw and Hall measurements were performed in the 1.9–300 K temperature range. While the Hall mobilities were similar at room temperature (RT), sample B had nearly twice as large Hall mobility as sample A at the lowest temperature; 679 and 889 cm2/Vs at RT and 1460 and 3082 cm2/Vs at 1.9 K for samples A and B. At 1.9–10 K, the longitudinal magnetoresistance was measured up to 9 T, in turn revealing Shubnikov–de Haas (SdH) oscillations. The carrier concentration, effective mass and quantum mobility of the two‐dimensional electron gas (2DEG) were determined from SdH oscillations. At 1.9 K, the 2DEG concentration of sample B was nearly seven times larger than of sample A (1.67 × 1013/cm2 vs. 0.24 × 1013/cm2). On the contrary, the quantum mobility was changed adversely nearly three times (sample B 2500 cm2/Vs and sample A 970 cm2/Vs). The increase of the 2DEG concentration was attributed to the existence of the GaN interlayer, which has strengthened the spontaneous polarization difference between the AlInN and GaN layers of the heterostructure. Hence, the stronger electric field at the 2DEG region bent the conduction band profile downwards and consequently the quantum mobility decreased due to the increased interface roughness scattering.
Positioning plasmonic nanostructures on single quantum emitters
Authors: Pfeiffer Markus , Lindfors Klas , Atkinson Paola , Rastelli Armando , Schmidt Oliver G. , Giessen Harald , Lippitz Markus
Published: February 2012

The controlled positioning and fabrication of nanostructures on single quantum emitters allows tuning and engineering their properties. Here, we demonstrate two methods to modify the light emission properties of single semiconductor quantum dots using plasmonic nanostructures. First, we have used atomic force microscopy (AFM) based nanomanipulation to position plasmon resonant gold nanoparticles on single near‐surface GaAs quantum dots. The particles act as optical antennas significantly enhancing the photoluminescence signal. The increase in luminescence is shown to originate from an increased excitation rate of the emitter. We have also developed a method to fabricate nanostructures aligned to near‐surface semiconductor quantum dots using electron beam lithography (EBL). The accuracy of the alignment procedure achieved in this work is better than 30 nm. The flexibility of our approach allows single semiconductor quantum dots to be coupled to complex device structures in order to obtain new functionalities. As a first example we show how excitons in quantum dots can be coupled to plasmonic waveguides. Our results pave the way for realizing integrated nanoscale optical circuits for quantum optics research and applications.
Organometallic‐complex‐grafted adamantane as novel hydrogen‐storage material: A first principles computation
Authors: Li Xiao‐Dong , Zhang Hong , Tang Yong‐Jian , Cheng Xin‐Lu
Published: February 2012

A novel type of hydrogen‐storage materials C10H16–m–(RTi‐nH2)m (m = 1–4, n = 1–5, R = C5H4, C6H5) was theoretically designed by grafting the organometallic complexes C5H5Ti and C6H6Ti onto the adamantane C10H16. The calculated binding energies of the organometallic complexes reveal that the grafting processes are exothermic and energetically favorable. Through this grafted pattern, the organometallic structures remain independent from each other, without clustering together as “sandwich” or “rice‐ball” structures. The investigations of hydrogen adsorption on the grafted complexes indicate that the grafting processes do not affect the hydrogen‐adsorption capacity of the organometallic structures. With this method, the new complexes can store up to 6.50 wt% hydrogen when maximum numbers of H2 molecules are adsorbed. Our study shows for the first time that adamantane functionalized by organometallic structures can be used as novel hydrogen‐storage material.
Improving the spectral efficiency of FDM‐CPM systems through packing and multiuser processing
Authors: Piemontese Amina , Mazzali Nicolò , Colavolpe Giulio
Published: February 2012

In frequency division multiplexed (FDM) systems, spectral efficiency (SE) can be increased by reducing the spacing between two adjacent channels, thus increasing the relevant interference and possibly accounting for it at the receiver. In this paper, we consider a FDM system where each user employs a continuous phase modulation, serially concatenated with an outer code through an interleaver, and iterative detection/decoding. We show that, by taking into account the increased interference using properly designed multiuser detection and synchronization schemes, it is possible to implement transmission schemes with unprecedented SE at a price of a limited complexity increase with respect to a classical single‐user receiver which neglects the interference. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Practical MIMO aspects in dual polarization per beam mobile satellite broadcasting
Authors: Arapoglou Pantelis‐Daniel , Burzigotti Paolo , Alamañac Ana Bolea , Gaudenzi Riccardo De
Published: February 2012

Building upon a number of recent publications promoting the use of multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) over dual polarization per beam mobile satellite broadcasting (MSB), the present paper sets MIMO well on its way for practical implementation in next‐generation MSB by analyzing critical aspects of this novel architecture. Specifically, it carries out a sensitivity analysis of various system parameters including how time interleaving, terminal antenna cross‐polarization discrimination and intrasytem interference impact MIMO performance. Next, the paper proposes a channel estimation approach compatible with the latest digital video broadcasting‐satellite to handheld (DVB‐SH) standard for MIMO land mobile satellite (LMS) channel estimation. Finally, the impact of non‐linear distortion on the most prominent space–time coding alternatives is investigated. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mobility and security in a real VANET deployed in a heterogeneous networks
Authors: Fernandez Ruiz Pedro J. , Hidalgo Fernando Bernal , Nieto Guerra Cristian A. , Gomez Skarmeta Antonio F.
Published: February 2012

This paper describes the experience and findings of deploying a vehicular scenario based on a heterogeneous network. WiMAX and Wi‐Fi have been chosen as access technologies because of their wide presence in the market and their different coverage range. Our approach has been developed, taking into account crucial aspects regarding mobility and security. These two aspects have been provided by Network Mobility and Internet Key Exchange version 2 protocols, respectively. In addition, a study about how to interoperate them has been performed, describing the benefits and drawbacks of every existing approach. Regarding handover latency, some improvements have been identified in order to reduce it to the minimum. Fast authentication methods, pre‐authentication method, and “multiple care‐of addresses” mechanism are examples of these improvements. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphology study of small amounts of evaporated gold on polymers
Authors: Nittler L. , Delcorte A. , Bertrand P. , Migeon H.‐N.
Published: February 2012

For different fields of applications, the knowledge of the exact morphology of ultra thin metal layers deposited on polymers is of interest. In this work, gold metallization of polymers was carried out in high vacuum by evaporation at room temperature. The evaporation flux was measured by a quartz crystal microbalance. By dint of XPS measurements, it is shown that the condensation coefficient of gold onto the different polymers is far below unity. A detailed study of the gold deposit structure was accomplished by SEM and TEM measurements. The evolutions of various morphology parameters of the gold islands are shown as a function of the evaporated gold quantity, confirming a heterogeneous Volmer–Weber growth. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Matrix effect‐free depth profiling of implanted Mg in AlxGa1‐xAs/GaAs multi‐layers by resonance enhanced multiphoton laser post‐ionization sputtered neutral mass spectrometry
Authors: Nishinomiya Suguru , Kubota Naoyoshi , Sagara Akihiko , Fukumoto Noriaki , Morita Hiromi , Hayashi Shunichi
Published: February 2012

In a present device technology, the controlled nanometer‐sized semiconductor structures making technology and the evaluation approach are indispensable. Secondary ion mass spectrometry is one of the useful techniques for such an evaluation, but it also has the problem to evaluate samples required nanometer‐sized depth resolution quantitatively because of “matrix effect” in the near‐surface and interfacial regions. Resonance‐enhanced multiphoton ionization sputtered neutral mass spectrometry (REMPI‐SNMS) is one of the promising methods to reduce the influence of the matrix effects. As compared with CsMg+ detection, SNMS is more useful to evaluate the real depth profile of the dopant, Mg in AlxGa1‐xAs/GaAs system. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Response surface optimization and characteristics of Indica rice starch‐based fat substitute prepared by α‐amylase
Authors: Yi Cuiping , Li Xianghong , Sun Peiran , He Yinghe
Published: February 2012

Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to study the effect of enzyme to substrate ratio (11.8–23.6 U α‐amylase/g rice starch), hydrolysis temperature (90–100°C) and pH value (6.0–6.6) on the gel strength of rice starches‐based fat substitute using α‐amylase hydrolysis. The optimum conditions obtained from response surface analysis was 16.52 U/g enzyme dosage, 92°C hydrolysis temperature while the influence of pH was found insignificant in the range tested. Under these optimum conditions, the gel strength of this fat substitute was 113 g/cm2, very close to the gel strength of butter of 114 g/cm2, while the solubility of the substitute was 1.33 ± 0.01% and the swelling power 4.85 ± 0.02. There were no observable differences in the granular size distribution between the untreated rice starch and the hydrolyzed rice starch. Rheological properties of this rice starch‐based fat substitute implied that it is easier for the substitute to form three‐dimensional networks under 34°C.
Progressive collapse resisting capacity of tilted building structures
Authors: Kim Jinkoo , Jung Min‐Kang
Published: February 2012

In this study, the progressive collapse resisting capacities of tilted buildings are evaluated on the basis of arbitrary column removal scenario. As analysis model structures both regular and tilted moment‐resisting frames, structures with outrigger trusses, and tubular/diagrid structures are designed, their progressive collapse resisting capacities are evaluated by nonlinear static and dynamic analyses. It turns out that the tilting of the structures requires increased steel tonnage due to the increased p‐delta effect. In addition in the tilted structures the plastic hinges are more widely distributed throughout the bays and stories when a column is removed from a side or a corner of the structures. With the analysis results, it is concluded that the tilted building structures, once they are properly designed to satisfy a given design code, may have at least an equivalent resisting capacity for progressive collapse caused by sudden loss of a column. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A process calculus for energy‐aware multicast communications of mobile ad hoc networks
Authors: Gallina Lucia , Rossi Sabina
Published: February 2012

Energy conservation is a critical issue in mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) for both nodes and network lifetime, as only batteries power nodes. In this paper, we present the E‐BUM calculus, an Energy‐aware calculus for Broadcast, Unicast and Multicast communications of MANETs. In order to reason about cost‐effective ad hoc routing protocols, our calculus captures the possibility for a node to control the transmission radius of its communications. We show how to use the E‐BUM calculus in order to prove some useful connectivity properties of MANETs, to control network topology and to reason about the problem of reducing interference. In particular, we formalize the notions of sender‐centred and receiver‐centred interference and provide efficient proof techniques for verifying the absence of interference between a specific set of nodes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Operational modal analysis of a 2.5 MW wind turbine using optical measurement techniques and strain gauges
Authors: Ozbek Muammer , Rixen Daniel J.
Published: February 2012

This work presents the results of in‐field tests performed on a 2.5 MW, 80 m diameter wind turbine. During the two test campaigns, dynamic response of the structure was monitored by using three different measurement systems, namely conventional strain gauges, photogrammetry and laser interferometry, whereas the turbine was both at parked condition and rotating. The recorded data were analysed by using an operational modal analysis algorithm based on the least square complex exponential method and several turbine parameters (eigenfrequencies and damping ratios) were extracted. The obtained system parameters were then qualitatively compared with the results presented in a study from literature, which includes both aeroelastic simulations and in‐field measurements performed on a similar size and capacity wind turbine. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modal re‐analysis of rotary wind turbine blades in refinement design
Authors: Yin Jiacong , Liu Wei , Chen Pu
Published: February 2012

A modal re‐analysis approach is proposed for refinement designs of rotary wind turbine blades on the basis of matrix perturbation methods. The approach entails effects of stress stiffening, spin softening, uncertainty of material properties and structural modifications of blades. Three perturbation methods are used to conduct the re‐analysis approach, including the standard perturbation method and two improvements proposed by H. C. Hu and S. H. Chen, respectively. Numerical results of a typical wind turbine blade indicate that the two improved methods deliver better accuracy than the standard perturbation method in terms of eigenpairs. In application to blade designs, Chen's method is suitable for a multi‐step modal re‐analysis with explicit small parameters and cultivates the first‐order and second‐order perturbations of eigenpairs as well. In contrast, Hu's method is a better choice for a single‐step modal re‐analysis without determining any small parameter explicitly and directly offers approximate eigenpairs instead of somehow tedious perturbation processes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Computational Statistics (Journal)
Authors: Härdle Wolfgang Karl , Mori Yuichi , Symanzik Jürgen
Published: February 2012

Computational Statistics is an international journal that fosters the publication of applications and methodological research in the field of computational statistics. In this article, we will discuss the motivation, history, some specialties, and the future scope of this journal. WIREs Comput Stat 2012, 4:334–339. doi: 10.1002/wics.1206

This article is categorized under:

Applications of Computational Statistics > Organizations and Publications
Four-lepton production at hadron colliders: aMC@NLO predictions with theoretical uncertainties
Authors: Frederix Rikkert , Frixione Stefano , Hirschi Valentin , Maltoni Fabio , Pittau Roberto , Torrielli Paolo
Published: February 2012

Abstract

We use aMC@NLO to study the production of four charged leptons at the LHC, performing parton showers with both HERWIG and Pythia6. Our underlying matrix element calculation features the full next-to-leading order
$ \mathcal{O}\left( {{\alpha_s}} \right) $
result and the
$ \mathcal{O}\left( {\alpha_s^2} \right) $
contribution of the gg channel, and it includes all off-shell, spin-correlation, virtual-photon-exchange, and interference effects. We present several key distributions together with the corresponding theoretical uncertainties. These are obtained through a process-independent technique that allows aMC@NLO to compute scale and PDF uncertainties in a fully automated way and at no extra CPU-time cost.
Higgs production via weak boson fusion in the standard model and the MSSM
Authors: Figy Terrance , Palmer Sophy , Weiglein Georg
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Weak boson fusion is expected to be an important Higgs production channel at the LHC. Complete one-loop results for weak boson fusion in the Standard Model have been obtained by calculating the full virtual electroweak corrections and photon radiation and implementing these results into the public Monte Carlo program VBFNLO (which includes the NLO QCD corrections). Furthermore the dominant supersymmetric one-loop corrections to neutral Higgs production, in the general case where the MSSM includes complex phases, have been calculated. These results have been combined with all one loop corrections of Standard Model type and with the propagator-type corrections from the Higgs sector of the MSSM up to the two-loop level. Within the Standard Model the electroweak corrections are found to be as important as the QCD corrections after the application of appropriate cuts. The corrections yield a shift in the cross section of order 5% for a Higgs of mass 100-200 GeV, confirming the result obtained previously in the literature. For the production of a light Higgs boson in the MSSM the Standard Model result is recovered in the decoupling limit, while the loop contributions from superpartners to the production of neutral MSSM Higgs bosons can give rise to corrections in excess of 10% away from the decoupling region.
A rationale for long-lived quarks and leptons at the LHC: low energy flavour theory
Authors: Éboli O. J. P. , Savoy C. A. , Funchal R. Zukanovich
Published: February 2012

Abstract

In the framework of gauged flavour symmetries, new fermions in parity symmetric representations of the standard model are generically needed for the compensation of mixed anomalies. The key point is that their masses are also protected by flavour symmetries and some of them are expected to lie way below the flavour symmetry breaking scale(s), which has to occur many orders of magnitude above the electroweak scale to be compatible with the available data from flavour changing neutral currents and CP violation experiments. We argue that, actually, some of these fermions would plausibly get masses within the LHC range. If they are taken to be heavy quarks and leptons, in (bi)-fundamental representations of the standard model symmetries, their mixings with the light ones are strongly constrained to be very small by electroweak precision data. The alternative chosen here is to exactly forbid such mixings by breaking of flavour symmetries into an exact discrete symmetry, the so-called proton-hexality, primarily suggested to avoid proton decay. As a consequence of the large value needed for the flavour breaking scale, those heavy particles are long-lived and rather appropriate for the current and future searches at the LHC for quasi-stable hadrons and leptons. In fact, the LHC experiments have already started to look for them.
LHC constraints on Yukawa unification in SO(10)
Authors: Badziak Marcin , Sakurai Kazuki
Published: February 2012

Abstract

LHC constraints on the recently proposed SUSY SO(10) GUT model with top-bottom-tau Yukawa unification are investigated. In this model, various phenomenological constraints are in concord with the Yukawa unification thanks to the negative sign of μ, D-term splitting in the soft scalar masses and non-universal gaugino masses generated by a non-zero F -term in a 24-dimensional representation of SU(5) ⊂ SO(10). After discussing the impact of the CP-odd Higgs boson mass bound on this model, we provide a detailed analysis of the recent direct SUSY searches performed by ATLAS and investigate the constraints on this SO(10) model. At 95% confidence level, the lower limit on the gluino mass is found to be 675 GeV. Assuming an integrated luminosity of 10 fb−1, this bound may be extended to 1.1 TeV if the right-handed down squark is lighter than about 1 TeV.
Propranolol reduces implicit negative racial bias
Authors: Terbeck Sylvia , Kahane Guy , McTavish Sarah , Savulescu Julian , Cowen Philip J. , Hewstone Miles
Published: February 2012

Background

Implicit negative attitudes towards other races are important in certain kinds of prejudicial social behaviour. Emotional mechanisms are thought to be involved in mediating implicit “outgroup” bias but there is little evidence concerning the underlying neurobiology. The aim of the present study was to examine the role of noradrenergic mechanisms in the generation of implicit racial attitudes.

Methods

Healthy volunteers (n = 36) of white ethnic origin, received a single oral dose of the β-adrenoceptor antagonist, propranolol (40 mg), in a randomised, double-blind, parallel group, placebo-controlled, design. Participants completed an explicit measure of prejudice and the racial implicit association test (IAT), 1–2 h after propranolol administration.

Results

Relative to placebo, propranolol significantly lowered heart rate and abolished implicit racial bias, without affecting the measure of explicit racial prejudice. Propranolol did not affect subjective mood.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that β-adrenoceptors play a role in the expression of implicit racial attitudes suggesting that noradrenaline-related emotional mechanisms may mediate negative racial bias. Our findings may also have practical importance given that propranolol is a widely used drug. However, further studies will be needed to examine whether a similar effect can be demonstrated in the course of clinical treatment.
Cancer Stem Cell Marker Bmi‐1 Expression is Associated with Basal‐like Phenotype and Poor Survival in Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Yanyang , Zhe Hong , Ding Zhe , Gao Ping , Zhang Ningmei , Li Guofu
Published: February 2012

Background

The purpose of present study was to examine the expression of cancer stem cell marker Bmi‐1 in breast cancer tissue and to evaluate the clinical implication of Bmi‐1 expression for these patients.

Methods

A total of 171 breast cancer patients who received surgical treatment in our hospital were enrolled in this study. Bmi‐1 expression in breast cancer tissue was assayed by immunohistochemistry. Statistical analyses were applied to test the relationship between expression of Bmi‐1 and clinicopathologic features and patient survival. The relationship between Bmi‐1 and the basal‐like phenotype of breast cancer also was analyzed in this study.

Results

Positive Bmi‐1 expression was detected in 89 of 171 (52%) invasive breast cancers patients. The Bmi‐1 status was significantly correlated to histological grade III (p = 0.001) and basal‐like phenotype (p < 0.001). The 5 year overall survival of the patients with Bmi‐1‐positive and ‐negative cancers were 78 and 91.9%, respectively (p = 0.03). Histological grade (p = 0.046) and Bmi‐1 status (p = 0.012) were detected as the independent prognostic factors in the Cox regression test.

Conclusions

Bmi‐1 status is an independent prognostic factor, which also is associated with tumor histological grade and basal‐like phenotype. The high proportions of positive Bmi‐1 expression in basal‐like breast cancer may be related to the high aggressiveness behavior of this subtype of breast cancer.
Quality of Life and Autonomy in Emerging Adults with Early‐Onset Neuromuscular Disorders
Authors: Huismann Darcy J. , Sheldon Jane P. , Yashar Beverly M. , Amburgey Kimberly , Dowling James J. , Petty Elizabeth M.
Published: February 2012

Emerging adulthood is an important period in the development of one's identity and autonomy. The ways in which identity and autonomy are viewed by emerging adults and how they impact quality of life (QoL) in individuals with early‐onset neuromuscular conditions is not yet known. This study focused on understanding and exploring relationships between self‐perceptions of emerging adulthood, autonomy, and QoL. Five previously validated measures were incorporated into an online survey and distributed to young adults with early‐onset neuromuscular conditions and unaffected controls. Topics explored included individuals’ views regarding their overall QoL, disease‐specific QoL, components of emerging adulthood, and autonomy. We found that a sense of higher disease impact was associated with a lower Overall General QoL. Additionally, perceptions of key autonomy factors “negativity” and “instability” were uniquely associated with Overall General QoL in the case group as compared to controls, whereas “attitudinal autonomy” (attaining the ability to plan and follow through with goals) was important to this age group regardless of health status. The specific factors of emerging adulthood and autonomy that were significantly correlated with Overall General QoL can be used for developing targeted counseling and interventions to improve QoL for individuals and their families.
Processus cognitifs, interactions et structures sociales
Authors: Cicourel Aaron V.
Published: February 2012

Les recherches sur le cerveau et celles sur les structures sociales se touchent souvent mais cheminent indépendamment. On considère ici que des mécanismes biologiques et des pressions environnementales pour la survie ont façonné simultanément une intersection graduelle de ces deux registres, transformant les conditions de l’interaction sociale collaborative et des compétences en matière de communication. De cette manière, on peut identifier des « re-descriptions représentationnelles » qui sont propres à mieux rendre compte des pratiques.
Où en est La sociologie générale?
Authors: Brian Éric
Published: February 2012

Si l’histoire et les sciences sociales ont connu une sorte de fusion au cours des dernières décennies et si de multiples domaines d’études spécialisées se sont affirmés pendant la même période, le registre durkheimien de la « sociologie générale » paraît aujourd’hui comme en friche. Il s’agit dans un premier temps d’analyser les conditions de cette désaffection et dans un second temps d’indiquer comment, par la voie d’une réflexivité de longue durée, on peut reformuler un agenda pour la sociologie générale.
Crystal structures of the Tudor domains of human PHF20 reveal novel structural variations on the Royal Family of proteins
Authors: Adams-Cioaba Melanie A. , Li Zhihong , Tempel Wolfram , Guo Yahong , Bian Chuanbing , Li Yanjun , Lam Robert , Min Jinrong
Published: February 2012

The human PHD finger protein 20 (PHF20) is a putative transcription factor. While little is known about its cognate cellular role, antibodies against PHF20 are present in sera from patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, glioblastoma and childhood medulloblastula. PHF20 comprises two N‐terminal Tudor domains, a central C2H2‐link zinc finger domain and a C‐terminal zinc‐binding PHD domain, and is a component of some MLL methyltransferase complexes. Here, we report the crystal structures of the N‐terminal Tudor domains of PHF20 and highlight the novel structural features of each domain. We also confirm previous studies suggesting that the second Tudor domain of PHF20 exhibits preference for dimethylated histone substrates.
Knockdown of Sec6 improves cell–cell adhesion by increasing α‐E‐catenin in oral cancer cells
Authors: Tanaka Toshiaki , Iino Mituyoshi , Goto Kaoru
Published: February 2012

The Sec6/8 complex is essential for specific exocytic sites on the plasma membrane and contributes to membrane growth in mammalian cells. In Madin‐Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, E‐cadherin and nectin‐based adhesion complexes recruit the Sec6/8 complex to intercellular contacts. However, in cancer cells, the relationship between the Sec6/8 complex and the cell–cell adhesion proteins remains obscure. We demonstrate that the expression of α‐E‐catenin is increased by Sec6 siRNAs, and E‐cadherin and β‐catenin localize mainly at the cell–cell contact region in HSC3 cells, which were transfected with Sec6 siRNA.
T-cell-receptor-like antibodies – generation, function and applications
Authors: Dahan Rony , Reiter Yoram
Published: February 2012

Tumour and virus-infected cells are recognised by CD8+cytotoxic T cells that, in response, are activated to eliminate these cells. In order to be activated, the clonotypic T-cell receptor (TCR) needs to encounter a specific peptide antigen presented by the membrane surface major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule. Cells that have undergone malignant transformation or viral infection present peptides derived from tumour-associated antigens or viral proteins on their MHC class I molecules. Therefore, disease-specific MHC–peptide complexes are desirable targets for immunotherapeutic approaches. One such approach transforms the unique fine specificity but low intrinsic affinity of TCRs to MHC–peptide complexes into high-affinity soluble antibody molecules endowed with a TCR-like specificity towards tumour or viral epitopes. These antibodies, termed TCR-like antibodies, are being developed as a new class of immunotherapeutics that can target tumour and virus-infected cells and mediate their specific killing. In addition to their therapeutic capabilities, TCR-like antibodies are being developed as diagnostic reagents for cancer and infectious diseases, and serve as valuable research tools for studying MHC class I antigen presentation.
First-trimester maternal serum vitamin D and mode of delivery
Authors: Savvidou Makrina D. , Makgoba Mahlatse , Castro Pedro T. , Akolekar Ranjit , Nicolaides Kypros H.
Published: February 2012

Low maternal vitamin D levels have been associated with adverse pregnancy outcome. A recent study has suggested that low maternal vitamin D levels at the time of delivery are also associated with an almost fourfold increase in caesarean section risk. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether there is a difference in maternal serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels at 11–13 weeks' gestation according to the mode of delivery. Maternal serum 25(OH)D levels were measured at 11–13 weeks' gestation in 995 singleton pregnancies resulting in the birth of phenotypically normal neonates at term. The measured 25(OH)D levels were adjusted for maternal age, BMI, racial origin, smoking, method of conception and season of blood testing, and the adjusted levels (multiple of the median; MoM) were compared between those who subsequently delivered vaginally and those that delivered by caesarean section. Delivery was vaginal in 79·6 % of cases, by emergency caesarean section in 11·6 % and by elective caesarean section in 8·8 %. The median 25(OH)D level in our population was 46·82 (interquartile range (IQR) 27·75–70·13) nmol/l. The adjusted maternal median 25(OH)D levels in the emergency and elective caesarean section groups (0·99, IQR 0·71–1·46 MoM and 0·96, IQR 0·73–1·27 MoM, respectively) were not significantly different from the vaginal delivery group (0·99, IQR 0·71–1·33 MoM;P = 0·53 andP = 0·81, respectively). First-trimester maternal serum 25(OH)D levels are similar between women who subsequently have a vaginal delivery and those who deliver by elective or emergency caesarean section.
Identification and phenology ofHyalesthes obsoletus(Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Cixiidae) nymphal instars
Authors: Cargnus E. , Pavan F. , Mori N. , Martini M.
Published: February 2012

Urtica dioicaandConvolvulus arvensisare the main host plants ofHyalesthes obsoletusand play an important role in the epidemiology of Bois noir of grapevines. The earliest survey, which was carried out to compare the phenology of nymphal instars onU. dioicaandC. arvensis, had highlighted some problems in the identification of the instars. Therefore, the correct identification of nymphs to species and instar level became a preliminary aim of this research. Adults and nymphs attributable toH. obsoletuswere collected during 2008–2010 in three flatland vineyard habitats of northern Italy onU. dioica,C. arvensisandArtemisia verlotorum. Nymphs and morphologically identified adults ofH. obsoletuswere submitted to molecular identification. Morphometric and morphological studies were carried out on nymphs collected in the field or obtained in laboratory rearings. Molecular methods not only confirmed the identity of adults, but also allowed the assignment of the nymphs to this species. Morphometric and morphological characteristics (e.g. body and head-thoracic lengths, number of thoracic pits) showed the existence of five nymphal instars. Morphometric differences between newly hatched and older first-instar nymphs were observed. A key to distinguish the five instars was proposed. Evident differences betweenH. obsoletusnymphs studied here and elsewhere were identified. According to differences in adult-flight period, an earlier phenology of nymphs onC. arvensisthan onU. dioicawas observed. In particular, the typical overwintering instar was the second onU. dioicaand the third onC. arvensis.
Effect of transtympanic low-pressure therapy in patients with unilateral Menière's disease unresponsive to betahistine: a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, clinical trial
Authors: Gürkov R , Filipe Mingas L B , Rader T , Louza J , Olzowy B , Krause E
Published: February 2012

Objective:

To determine the effect of the Meniett® low-pressure generator on the subjective symptoms and audiovestibular disease markers of patients with unilateral Menière's disease unresponsive to betahistine treatment.

Methods:

Randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, clinical trial at a tertiary referral centre. After ventilation tube placement, patients were randomised to the active treatment or placebo group. Monitoring comprised audiometry and air caloric testing and a vertigo diary (enabling calculation of vertigo and activity scores, and the number of vertigo days, vertigo-free days and sick days).

Results:

Sixty-eight patients completed the study. For the active treatment versus placebo group, the following pre- and post-treatment values, and significances for treatment effect comparisons, were respectively seen: cumulative vertigo scores, 22.47 and 15.97 vs 20.42 and 19.23 (p = 0.048); vertigo days, 6.5 and 4.08 vs 5.94 and 5.52 (p = 0.102); sick days, 3.08 and 0.78 vs 2.87 and 3.45 (p = 0.041); vertigo-free days, 14.47 and 17.61 vs 15.48 and 17.58 (p = 0.362); activity score, 23.61 and 13.42 vs 24.68 and 20.23 (p = 0.078); low-tone hearing threshold, 49.15 and 53.18 dB nHL vs 41.66 and 46.10 dB nHL (p > 0.05); and slow phase velocity in response to caloric stimulation, 18.86 and 18.72 °/second vs 14.97 and 15.95 °/second, (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Use of the Meniett® low-pressure generator improved patients' vertigo but not their hearing or vestibular function. This safe, minimally invasive treatment is recommended as second-line treatment for unilateral Menière's disease.
Grisel's syndrome: a rare complication of tonsillectomy
Authors: Sia K J , Tang I P , Kong C K L , Nasriah A
Published: February 2012

Objectives:

To discuss the pathophysiology of atlanto-axial subluxation as a rare complication of tonsillectomy, and to discuss the important radiological findings for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Case report:

We report a case of post-tonsillectomy atlanto-axial subluxation, also known as Grisel's syndrome, in a child. On the third day after surgery, the boy presented with torticollis with no neurological deficit. Rotatory atlanto-axial subluxation was clearly shown in computed tomography scans of the neck. Cervical traction for one week successfully reduced the subluxation, with no long-term sequelae.

Conclusion:

Pre-existing cervical ligamentous laxity and post-operative infection are believed to be the main causes of Grisel's syndrome. Although it is rare, patients are advised to seek treatment early if any neck pain or fever persists. Early diagnosis is important for better treatment outcome. Initial conservative measures are advised before more invasive cervical traction is adopted.
Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhoea after nasal packing for epistaxis: case report
Authors: Edkins O , Nyamarebvu C T , Lubbe D
Published: February 2012

Objective:

We report a case of traumatic cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhoea following nasal packing with a Rapid Rhino inflatable balloon pack, as treatment for epistaxis.

Method:

Case report and review of the literature regarding this complication.

Results:

A thorough literature search was performed using PubMed. To our best knowledge, there have been no previous reports of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhoea following nasal packing. In our case, cerebrospinal fluid leakage occurred due to fracture of the middle turbinate at its superior skull base insertion. The cerebrospinal fluid leak resolved spontaneously without the need for surgical intervention.

Conclusion:

This case report highlights not only the need for an appreciation of sinonasal anatomy and the potential risks associated with nasal packing, but also the need for adequate training in the use of commercially available nasal packs by medical practitioners attending patients with epistaxis.