bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low body mass index at 3 months following adjuvant chemoradiation affects survival of postoperative locally advanced oral cavity cancer patients
Authors: Chang Pei‐Hung , Wang Cheng‐Hsu , Huang Jen‐Seng , Lai Chien‐Hong , Wu Tsung‐Han , Lan Yii‐Jeng , Tsai Jason Chien‐Sheng , Chen Eric Yen‐Chao , Yang Shih‐Wei , Yeh Kun‐Yun
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To investigate the association between body mass index and outcomes such as recurrence and survival in postoperative locally advanced oral cavity cancer patients who underwent adjuvant chemoradiation.

Study Design:

Retrospective analysis of patient data and outcomes.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed the records of 61 stage III, IVA, and IVB oral cavity cancer patients who were treated with curative surgery and adjuvant chemoradiation between 2007 and 2009. Each patient's body mass index was recorded throughout the treatment duration and after its completion. The associations between demographic variables, body mass index, and survival outcomes were determined by univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results:

Overall, body mass index decreased throughout the chemoradiation period and reached the nadir at 3 months after completion of therapy. Univariate analysis showed that patients with body mass index <18.5 kg/m2 at 3 months after chemoradiation had significantly higher recurrence and decreased survival rates. Multivariate analysis confirmed that body mass index <18.5 kg/m2 at this time point is an independent predictor for recurrence (P = .039) and overall survival (P = .043).

Conclusions:

Early recurrence can be predicted by malnourished status 3 months after treatment completion. Malnourishment has significant negative effects on overall survival in locally advanced postoperative oral cavity cancer patients who are undergoing adjuvant chemoradiation. After therapy is completed, nutritional guidance and care should be continued for patients with this advanced disease.
Cobalt Ion‐Mediated Cysteine Detection With a Hyperbranched Conjugated Polyelectrolyte as a New Sensing Platform
Authors: Kim Daigeun , Jang Geunseok , Kim Jongho , Seo Seongwon , Park Won Ho , Lee Taek Seung
Published: August 2012

A highly efficient colorimetric and fluorescence turn‐off probe for the sensitive and selective detection of the biologically important amino acid, cysteine (Cys), is demonstrated using a newly synthesized water‐soluble hyperbranched polymer (HP) containing sulfonic acid groups. The detection mechanism involves two steps: (i) the slight quenching of HP in the presence of Co2+ in advance; and (ii) the gradual quenching of the HP–Co2+ complex according to the concentration of Cys due to the absorption screening effect of the formation of the Cys‐Co2+ complex, which prevents HP from absorbing excitation energy.
The evolution of pore pressure fields around standard and ball penetrometers: influence of penetration rate
Authors: Elsworth Derek
Published: August 2012

Rate effects are examined in the steady pore pressure distribution induced as a result of penetration of standard and ball penetrometers. The incompressible flow field, which develops around the penetrometer is used to define the approximate soil velocity field local to the penetrometer tip. This prescribes the Lagrangian framework for the migration of the fluid saturated porous medium, defining the advection of induced pore pressures relative to the pressure‐monitoring locations present on the probe face. In two separate approaches, different source functions are used to define the undrained pore fluid pressures developed either (i) on the face of the penetrometer or (ii) in the material comprising the failure zone surrounding the penetrometer tip. In the first, the sources applied at the tip face balance the volume of fluid mobilized by the piston displacement of the advancing penetrometer. Alternately, a fluid source distribution is evaluated from plasticity solutions and distributed throughout the tip process zone: for a standard penetrometer, the solution is for the expansion of a spherical cavity, and for the ball penetrometer, the solution is an elastic distribution of stresses conditioned by the limit load embedded within an infinite medium. For the standard penetrometer, the transition from drained to undrained behavior occurs over about two orders of magnitude in penetration rate for pore pressures recorded at the tip (U1) and about two‐and‐a‐half orders of magnitude for the shoulder (U2). This response is strongly influenced by the rigidity of the soil and slightly influenced by the model linking induced total stresses to pore pressures. For the ball penetrometer, the transition from drained to undrained behavior also transits two‐and‐a‐half orders of magnitude in penetration rate, although it is offset to higher dimensionless penetration rates than for standard penetration. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The15N isotope effect inEscherichia coli: A neutron can make the difference
Authors: Filiou Michaela D. , Varadarajulu Jeeva , Teplytska Larysa , Reckow Stefan , Maccarrone Giuseppina , Turck Christoph W.
Published: August 2012

Several techniques based on stable isotope labeling are used for quantitative MS. These include stable isotope metabolic labeling methods for cells in culture as well as live organisms with the assumption that the stable isotope has no effect on the proteome. Here, we investigate the15N isotope effect onEscherichia colicultures that were grown in either unlabeled (14N) or15N‐labeled media by LC‐ESI‐MS/MS‐based relative protein quantification. Consistent protein expression level differences and altered growth rates were observed between14N and15N‐labeled cultures. Furthermore, targeted metabolite analyses revealed altered metabolite levels between14N and15N‐labeled bacteria. Our data demonstrate for the first time that the introduction of the15N isotope affects protein and metabolite levels inE. coliand underline the importance of implementing controls for unbiased protein quantification using stable isotope labeling techniques.
Abiraterone acetate: a new oral treatment for prostate cancer
Authors: Chaplin Steve , Clarke Noel
Published: August 2012

Abiraterone acetate (Zytiga) is a new treatment for metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer. In our New products review, Steve Chaplin presents the clinical data relating to its efficacy and adverse events and Professor Noel Clarke discusses its place in therapy.
Spin relaxation in nanowires by hyperfine coupling
Authors: Echeverría‐Arrondo C. , Sherman E. Ya.
Published: August 2012

Hyperfine interactions establish limits on spin dynamics and relaxation rates in ensembles of semiconductor quantum dots. It is the confinement of electrons which determines nonzero hyperfine coupling and leads to the spin relaxation. As a result, in nanowires one would expect the vanishing of this effect due to extended electron states. However, even for relatively clean wires, disorder plays a crucial role and makes electron localization sufficient to cause spin relaxation on the time scale of the order of 10 ns. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry of chaetoglobosins
Authors: Xu Guo‐Bo , Li Li‐Mei , Fang Dong‐Mei , Li Guo‐You , Zhang Guo‐Lin , Wu Zhi‐Jun
Published: August 2012

RATIONALE

Chaetoglobosins are a family of macrocyclic polyketide alkaloids. They possess many similar isomers and exhibit a wide range of biological activities. Thus, there is a need for reliable, fast, and low‐cost analysis of this class of compounds.

METHODS

A series of seven chaetoglobosins from Chaetomium globosum, including two types of isomers, were investigated using electrospray ionization quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS) in both positive‐ and negative‐ion mode. The identity of major product ions was supported by deuterium‐labeling experiments.

RESULTS

In positive‐ion mode, the product ion at m/z 130 is the characteristic ion of the indolyl group. A McLafferty rearrangement might play a significant role in the fragmentation of the macrocycle moiety for most chaetoglobosins and produces two series of characteristic product ions, accompanied by neutral losses. The characteristic product ion at m/z 309 in the MS/MS spectrum of chaetoglobosins E indicates the structure of the cyclic olefinic bond in ring B and can be used to distinguish it from the isomers, chaetoglobosins Fex, which has an exocyclic double bond on ring B. In negative‐ion mode, the McLafferty rearrangement has an important role in the fragmentation pattern of the macrocycle. Some high‐abundance radical ions were detected. The radical product ion at m/z 138 might differentiate chaetoglobosins F and penochalasin F, isomers which have very similar structures.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, complementary information obtained from fragmentation experiments of [M+H]+ and [M–H]– precursor ions is especially valuable for rapid identification of chaetoglobosins. The high‐abundance radical ions in negative‐ion mode are also of scientific interest. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of a liquid chromatography method for compound‐specific δ13C analysis of plant carbohydrates in alkaline media
Authors: Rinne Katja T. , Saurer Matthias , Streit Kathrin , Siegwolf Rolf T. W.
Published: August 2012

RATIONALE

Isotope analysis of carbohydrates is important for improved understanding of plant carbon metabolism and plant physiological response to the environment. High‐performance liquid chromatography/isotope ratio mass spectrometry (HPLC/IRMS) for direct compound‐specific δ13C measurements of soluble carbohydrates has recently been developed, but the still challenging sample preparation and the fact that no single method is capable of separating all compounds of interest hinder its wide‐spread application. Here we tested in detail a chromatography method in alkaline media.

METHODS

We examined the most suitable chromatographic conditions for HPLC/IRMS analysis of carbohydrates in aqueous conifer needle extracts using a CarboPac PA20 anion‐exchange column with NaOH eluent, paying specific attention to compound yields, carbon isotope fractionation processes and the reproducibility of the method. Furthermore, we adapted and calibrated sample preparation methods for HPLC/IRMS analysis. OnGuard II cartridges were used for sample purification.

RESULTS

Good peak separation and highly linear and reproducible concentration and δ13C measurements were obtained. The alkaline eluent was observed to induce isomerization of hexoses, detected as reduced yields and 13 C fractionation of the affected compounds. A reproducible pre‐purification method providing ~100% yield for the carbohydrate compounds of interest was calibrated.

CONCLUSIONS

The good level of peak separation obtained in this study is reflected in the good precision and linearity of concentration and δ13C results. The data provided crucial information on the behaviour of sugars in LC analysis with alkaline media. The observations highlight the importance for the application of compound‐matched standard solution for the detection and correction of instrumental biases in concentration and δ13C analysis performed under identical chromatographic conditions. The calibrated pre‐purification method is well suited for studies with complex matrices that disable the use of a spiked internal standard for the detection of procedural losses. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trajectory calculations of space‐charge‐induced mass shifts in a linear quadrupole ion trap
Authors: Douglas D. J. , Konenkov N. V.
Published: August 2012

RATIONALE

If too many ions are stored in a linear quadrupole ion trap, space charge causes the oscillation frequencies to decrease. Ions therefore appear at higher apparent mass‐to‐charge ratios in a mass spectrum. To further understand this process, we have used trajectory calculations of ions to determine mass shifts.

METHODS

Two models of the ion cloud are used. The first assumes that the acceptance of the quadrupole is uniformly filled with ions. The second assumes that the ions have a thermal distribution trapped in the effective potential. Both give analytical descriptions of the field from space charge. Ion trajectories are calculated with and without space charge. Oscillation frequencies are determined with a Fourier transform. Shifts in oscillation frequency with space charge are then used to calculate mass shifts.

RESULTS

Both ion cloud models give similar results. More diffuse ion clouds or ion clouds that have higher temperatures produce lower electric fields near the center of the trap and hence lower mass shifts. Space charge produces a nonlinear field. As a result, the discrete resonant frequencies of ions in a pure quadrupole field become distributions of frequencies. Comparisons with experiments show agreement for reasonable values of the parameters of the two ion cloud models.

CONCLUSIONS

This relatively simple method for calculating the effects of space charge shows (i) that the spread of oscillation frequencies reduces mass resolution with axial ejection and (ii) that mass shifts are reduced with ion clouds with greater spatial extents or higher ion temperatures. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Arrow of time: Metaphorical construals of entropy and the second law of thermodynamics
Authors: Amin Tamer G. , Jeppsson Fredrik , Haglund Jesper , Strömdahl Helge
Published: August 2012

Various features of scientific discourse have been characterized in the science education literature, and challenges students face in appropriating these features have been explored. Using the framework of conceptual metaphor, this paper sought to identify explicit and implicit metaphors in pedagogical texts dealing with the concept of entropy and the second law of thermodynamics, an abstract and challenging domain for learners. Three university‐level textbooks were analyzed from a conceptual metaphor perspective, and a range of explicit and implicit metaphors were identified. Explicit metaphors identified include entropy as disorder, thermodynamics processes as movements along a path, and energetic exchange as financial transactions among others. Implicit metaphors include application and elaboration of the generic Location Event Structure metaphor, application of the Object Event Structure metaphor, and others. The similarities and differences between explicit and implicit metaphors found in the textbooks are also described. Two key pedagogical implications are discussed: that the selection of explicit instructional metaphors can be guided by consistency with implicit metaphors; and that the range of implicit metaphors found in pedagogical texts implies that a multiple instructional metaphor strategy is warranted. The depth of the phenomenon of conceptual metaphor and its implications for future research are also discussed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed 96:818–848, 2012
Proposing a core set of instructional practices and tools for teachers of science
Authors: Windschitl Mark , Thompson Jessica , Braaten Melissa , Stroupe David
Published: August 2012

Recent calls for teacher preparation to become more grounded in practice prompt the questions: Which practices? and perhaps more fundamentally, what counts as a model of instruction worth learning for a new professional—i.e., the beginner's repertoire? In this report, we argue the following: If a defined set of subject‐specific high‐leverage practices could be articulated and taught during teacher preparation and induction, the broader teacher education community could collectively refine these practices as well as the tools and other resources that support their appropriation by novices across various learning‐to‐teach contexts. To anchor our conversation about these issues, we describe the evolution, in design, and enactment, of a “candidate core” and a suite of tools that supported the approximation of equitable and rigorous pedagogy for several groups of beginning science teachers. Their struggles and successes in taking up ambitious practice informed not only our designs for a beginner's repertoire but also a system of tools and socioprofessional routines that could foster such teaching over time. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed 96:878–903, 2012
Selection of Desulfurizing Agents and Optimization of Operational Variables in Hot Metal Desulfurization
Authors: Silva Sidiney Nascimento , Vernilli Fernando , Justus Sergio Murilo , Araújo Cláudio Márcio dos Santos , Longo Elson , Varela José Arana , Lopes José Milton Gabriel , Vidal de Almeida Bruno
Published: August 2012

The growing demand for steels with tighter compositional specifications led the Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional (CSN) to develop more efficient processes. To solve this problem this paper aims to identify the operational variables more impacting in the desulfurization process, specifically in torpedo car, as well as its causes and solutions. Then select and test, with laboratorial and industrial tests, desulfurizing agents based of CaC2, CaO, CaCO3, and Mg to assess the cost per quantity of product desulfurized. The mixture with best results was not that one with highest content of CaC2. It is believed that this mixture showed better efficiency because of the increased agitation of the bath, produced by the releasing of gas from compound CaCO3 present in this mixture.
Labeling of neuronal receptors and transporters with quantum dots
Authors: Chang Jerry C. , Kovtun Oleg , Blakely Randy D. , Rosenthal Sandra J.
Published: August 2012

The ability to efficiently visualize protein targets in cells is a fundamental goal in biological research. Recently, quantum dots (QDots) have emerged as a powerful class of fluorescent probes for labeling membrane proteins in living cells because of breakthrough advances in QDot surface chemistry and biofunctionalization strategies. This review discusses the increasing use of QDots for fluorescence imaging of neuronal receptors and transporters. The readers are briefly introduced to QDot structure, photophysical properties, and common synthetic routes toward the generation of water‐soluble QDots. The following section highlights several reports of QDot application that seek to unravel molecular aspects of neuronal receptor and transporter regulation and trafficking. This article is closed with a prospectus of the future of derivatized QDots in neurobiological and pharmacological research. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2012, 4:605–619. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1186

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > In Vitro Nanoparticle-Based Sensing

Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging
What Can Zookeepers Tell Us About Interacting With Big Cats in Captivity?
Authors: Szokalski Monika S. , Litchfield Carla A. , Foster Wendy K.
Published: August 2012

Despite the potential dangers involved, interactions between zookeepers and captive big cats are increasing. Research with other animals, particularly nonhuman primates, suggests that closer interactions can be beneficial not only for the animals and their keepers, but also for zoo visitors. This study sought to determine whether the same benefits may apply to keeper‐big cat interactions. An online questionnaire was completed by 86 keepers worldwide, assessing which types of handling (hands‐on, protected, hands‐off) they practice with their big cats, whether they practice training, and what their opinions of these methods are (through a series of rating scales and open‐ended questions). Protected contact was the most frequently used handling method among this sample, particularly with lions, tigers, and cheetahs, and training was practiced by the majority of participants with all big cat species. Participants perceived protected contact as the most beneficial handling practice for big cats, keepers, and visitors, noting how it can allow a close bond between keeper and cat, as well as its educational value for zoo visitors. Contrastingly, concerns were raised about the use of hands‐on approaches, particularly with regard to the safety of all parties involved and the potential for wrong messages to be sent to visitors. Further, training was reported to be more beneficial for each group than any handling practice, yielding similar potential benefits as protected contact. Consistent with existing information with other species, these findings will be useful in directing objective research examining the use of different handling and training methods with big cats. Zoo Biol. 32:142–151, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel concept of identifying precancerous cells to enhance anti‐cancer therapies
Authors: Zheng Yun‐Wen , Tsuchida Tomonori , Taniguchi Hideki
Published: August 2012

Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide and mortality due to cancer continues to rise. Cancer cell resistance to chemoradiotherapy is hindering treatment efforts in clinics. Prevention strategies and early detection thus may reduce mortality. In this study, we have proposed the concept of using precancerous cells and their progeny in cancer therapy, which could provide unique insights for early cancer diagnosis, treatment, and preventive therapy. In addition to discussing the nature and characteristics of precancerous cells and their progeny, we have also introduced an effective precancerous cell‐targeted therapy based on an animal model of hepatocellular carcinoma. Anti‐precancerous cell drug development should be a major target during cancer elimination and it may lead to preventive therapies for individuals with a high risk of developing cancer.
The impact of habitat fragmentation on the interaction betweenCentaurium erythraea(Gentianaceae) and its specialized seed predatorStenoptilia zophodactylus(Pterophoridae, Lepidoptera)
Authors: De Crop Eske , Brys Rein , Hoffmann Maurice
Published: August 2012

Habitat fragmentation can affect plant population characteristics and plant traits, which in turn can change biotic interactions, such as plant–insect interactions. Because of this, habitat fragmentation can affect reproductive success and survival of both the plant and seed predators, especially when the predator is rare and specialized. This study focuses on the level of fruit predation inCentaurium erythraeaby its specific seed predator, the plume mothStenoptilia zophodactylus, in a fragmented coastal dune landscape. To investigate the consequences of habitat fragmentation, we assessed the effect of population and plant characteristics of 25C. erythraeapopulations on fruit predation byS. zophodactylus. Although the distribution of this specialized predator is poorly documented, our results show thatS. zophodactylusoccurred frequently in most of the studiedC. erythraeapopulations. We found a strong correlation between the spatial isolation of the host plant and the level of fruit predation, with low predation in isolated populations, most likely due to the limited dispersion capacity of the plume moth.C. erythraeaindividuals experienced a higher risk of fruit predation when showing a large floral display size, presumably because they are more attractive. However, at fruit level, the risk of predation decreases with increasing floral display at individual plant level, representing a sort of dilution effect. Our findings indicate that maintaining and restoring large, dense and rather connected populations ofC. erythraeawill be beneficial for the sustainable conservation of the rare specialist seed predatorS. zophodactylus, without increasing the predation pressure on the host plant.
Time is on our side: the importance of considering a recovery period when assessing flooding tolerance in plants
Authors: Striker Gustavo Gabriel
Published: August 2012

There is wide consensus about the significance of monitoring plant responses during flooding when evaluating specific tolerance. Nonetheless, plant recovery once water recedes has often been overlooked. This note highlights the importance of registering plant performance during a recovery phase. Two opposite types of plant growth responses, during and after flooding, are discussed. It is shown that an apparently poor performance during flooding does not necessarily involve a reduced tolerance, as plants can prioritize saving energy and carbohydrates for later resumption of vigorous growth during recovery. Conversely, maintenance of positive plant growth during flooding can imply extensive depletion of reserves, consequently constraining future plant growth. Therefore, to accurately estimate real tolerance to this stress, plant performance should be appraised during both flooding and recovery periods.
The Abdominal Wall Lumps and Bumps: Cross-Sectional Imaging Spectrum
Authors: Virmani Vivek , Sethi Vineeta , Fasih Najla , Ryan John , Kielar Ania
Published: August 2012

This article focuses on the cross-sectional imaging spectrum of abnormalities that affect the abdominal wall, with emphasis on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Cross-sectional imaging is valuable for diagnosing and evaluating the extent of abdominal-wall masses. With the increasing use of MRI, it is often possible to reach a diagnosis or narrow the differential diagnosis, thereby guiding effective management. Neoplastic and non-neoplastic pathologies will be illustrated, and the distinctive imaging characteristics of these entities will be highlighted.
Correlation between Subcutaneous Knee Fat Thickness and Chondromalacia Patellae on Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Knee
Authors: Kok Hong Kuan , Donnellan John , Ryan Davinia , Torreggiani William C.
Published: August 2012

Purpose

Chondromalacia patellae is a common cause of anterior knee pain in young patients and can be detected noninvasively with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The purpose of our study was to evaluate the correlation between subcutaneous fat thickness around the knee joint on axial MRIs as a surrogate marker of obesity, with the presence or absence of chondromalacia patellae.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of knee MRIs in 170 patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria. Imaging was performed over a 12-month period on a 1.5T MRI system with a dedicated extremity coil. Two radiologists experienced in musculoskeletal imaging assessed each examination in consensus for the presence or absence of chondromalacia patellae and graded positive studies from 0 (absent) to 3 (full cartilage thickness defect). Measurement of subcutaneous knee fat thickness was obtained on the medial aspect of the knee.

Results

MRI findings of chondromalacia patellae were present in 33 patients (19.4%), of which, there were 11 grade 1 lesions (33.3%), 9 grade 2 lesions (27.3%), and 13 grade 3 lesions (39.4%). The mean subcutaneous knee fat thickness was significantly higher in the chondromalacia patellae group for all grades compared with the normal group ( P < .001), and there was a significant correlation between subcutaneous knee fat thickness and grades of chondromalacia patellae ( R = 0.48 [95% confidence interval, 0.38-0.68]; P < .001). Female patients had thicker subcutaneous knee fat and more severe grades of chondromalacia patellae.

Conclusion

Subcutaneous knee fat thickness as a surrogate marker of obesity was positively associated with the presence and severity of chondromalacia patellae on MRI.
A conserved regulatory element located far downstream of the gls locus modulates gls expression through chromatin loop formation during myogenesis
Authors: Yuasa Katsutoshi , Takeda Shin'ichi , Hijikata Takao
Published: August 2012

Chromatin loops formed between distant regulatory elements and promoters modulate gene expression. We identified a novel distant regulatory element located approximately 120 kb downstream of the gls promoter, and examined its regulatory relevance to gls gene expression in C2C12 cells by a chromosome conformation capture assay. The distant element physically interacted with the gls promoter in myoblasts but not in myotubes. Semiquantitative analysis by real‐time PCR showed more abundant gls transcripts in myoblasts than in myotubes. These findings suggest that this distant element differentially regulates gls gene expression through dynamic formation and abrogation of a chromatin loop during myogenesis.
Clarification of the C‐terminal proteolytic processing site of human Amphiregulin
Authors: Levano Kelly S. , Kenny Paraic A.
Published: August 2012

Amphiregulin, like other ErbB ligands, is synthesized as a pro‐protein which requires cleavage at the cell surface to release the active signaling domain. Prior studies using a variety of approaches have not yielded a consensus about the precise cleavage site. Here we report the purification and protein sequencing of the cell‐associated human Amphiregulin stalk which remains following cleavage of the signaling domain. These data indicate that human Amphiregulin is cleaved at Lysine 187, a site homologous to the cleavage site reported in the mouse protein and distinct from the Lysine 184 site previously reported for the human protein.
MiR‐136 promotes apoptosis of glioma cells by targeting AEG‐1 and Bcl‐2
Authors: Yang Yi , Wu Jueheng , Guan Hongyu , Cai Junchao , Fang Lishan , Li Jun , Li Mengfeng
Published: August 2012

MicroRNAs have the capacity to coordinately repress multiple target genes and interfere with biological functions of the cell, such as proliferation and apoptosis. Here we report that miR‐136 is downregulated in human glioma, and that the miRNA promotes apoptosis of glioma cells induced by chemotherapy. Two anti‐apoptotic genes, AEG‐1 and Bcl‐2, are identified as targets of miR‐136, and restoration of AEG‐1 or Bcl‐2 expression suppresses miR‐136‐enhanced apoptosis. Therefore, miR‐136 might play a tumor‐suppressive role in human glioma and thereby might represent a potential therapeutic strategy.
Physical Activity Patterns and Quality of Life of Overweight Boys: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Lin Chung-Ying , Su Chia-Ting , Ma Hui-lng
Published: August 2012

Objective

We compared the physical activity (PA) patterns and the quality of life (QoL) between overweight and normal-weight boys, and examined the relationship between PA and QoL of overweight boys.

Methods

Eighteen overweight boys (age range: 8–10 years, mean ± standard deviation: 9.36 ± 0.82 years) and 18 age-matched, normal-weight counterparts (age range: 8–10 years, mean ± standard deviation: 9.01 ± 0.65 years) participated in this study. All participants were in the 3rd or 4th grade. Each boy completed a QoL questionnaire and wore an accelerometer on his waist for a week to measure his PA during that period. Independent t tests were used to examine the differences in QoL and PA between the overweight and normal-weight boys. Paired t tests were used to test the differences in PA between weekdays and weekend days for each group. Finally, Pearson correlations were used to analyze the relationships between PA and QoL in overweight boys.

Results

Overweight boys reported a significantly lower QoL, and participated in significantly less PA on weekends than did normal-weight boys. A moderate and marginally significant correlation was found between PA on weekends and QoL in overweight boys.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest the importance of increasing weekend PA for overweight boys. Occupational therapists should encourage overweight boys to engage in PA that the boys are interested in on weekends, and conduct a PA program for overweight boys.
The role of agencies in policy-making
Authors: Bach Tobias , Niklasson Birgitta , Painter Martin
Published: August 2012

There is an extensive literature on the proliferation of agencies and the delegation of authority to such bodies across different countries. Much of this research asks whether New Public Management (NPM)-style agencification reforms have been implemented according to the original objectives, and what consequences – intended or unintended – the reforms have produced. Yet much of this research lacks an explicit link to the literature on the policymaking functions of public bureaucracies and their interactions with elected politicians. What are the consequences of agencification for the policy process at large? What policy relevant tasks do agencies perform, to what extent are they involved in policy-making, and what factors influence the quality and quantity of their participation? This introductory article gives an overview of key concepts such as “public agencies” and “policy autonomy” and the research literature. Moreover, it critically discusses relevant theoretical perspectives, outlines the articles included in this themed issue and argues for a more systematic and theoretically guided analysis of agencies’ role in policy-making.
Cyberwarfare and the Laws of War
Authors: Harrison Dinniss Heather
Published: August 2012

The information revolution has transformed both modern societies and the way in which they conduct warfare. Cyber Warfare and the Laws of War analyses the status of computer network attacks in international law and examines their treatment under the laws of armed conflict. The first part of the book deals with the resort to force by states and discusses the threshold issues of force and armed attack by examining the permitted responses against such attacks. The second part offers a comprehensive analysis of the applicability of international humanitarian law to computer network attacks. By examining the legal framework regulating these attacks, Heather Harrison Dinniss addresses the issues associated with this method of attack in terms of the current law and explores the underlying debates which are shaping the modern laws applicable in armed conflict.
The Physics of Foraging
Authors: Viswanathan Gandhimohan. M. , da Luz Marcos G. E. , Raposo Ernesto P. , Stanley H. Eugene
Published: August 2012

Do the movements of animals, including humans, follow patterns that can be described quantitatively by simple laws of motion? If so, then why? These questions have attracted the attention of scientists in many disciplines, and stimulated debates ranging from ecological matters to queries such as 'how can there be free will if one follows a law of motion?' This is the first book on this rapidly evolving subject, introducing random searches and foraging in a way that can be understood by readers without a previous background on the subject. It reviews theory as well as experiment, addresses open problems and perspectives, and discusses applications ranging from the colonization of Madagascar by Austronesians to the diffusion of genetically modified crops. The book will interest physicists working in the field of anomalous diffusion and movement ecology as well as ecologists already familiar with the concepts and methods of statistical physics.
Continuum Mechanics
Authors: Capaldi Franco M.
Published: August 2012

This is a modern textbook for courses in continuum mechanics. It provides both the theoretical framework and the numerical methods required to model the behaviour of continuous materials. This self-contained textbook is tailored for advanced undergraduate or first-year graduate students with numerous step-by-step derivations and worked-out examples. The author presents both the general continuum theory and the mathematics needed to apply it in practice. The derivation of constitutive models for ideal gases, fluids, solids and biological materials, and the numerical methods required to solve the resulting differential equations, are also detailed. Specifically, the text presents the theory and numerical implementation for the finite difference and the finite element methods in the Matlab® programming language. It includes thirteen detailed Matlab® programs illustrating how constitutive models are used in practice.
Resilience
Authors: Southwick Steven M. , Charney Dennis S.
Published: August 2012

Many of us will be struck by one or more major traumas sometime in our lives. Perhaps you have been a victim of sexual abuse, domestic violence or assault. Perhaps you were involved in a serious car accident. Perhaps you are a combat veteran. Maybe you were on the beach in Thailand during a tsunami, or in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. Or maybe, you are among the millions who have suffered a debilitating disease, lost a loved one or lost your job. This inspiring book identifies ten key ways to weather and bounce back from stress and trauma. Incorporating the latest scientific research and dozens of interviews with trauma survivors, it provides a practical guide to building emotional, mental and physical resilience. Written by experts in post-traumatic stress, this book provides a vital and successful roadmap for overcoming the adversities we all face at some point in our lives.
Programming with Higher-Order Logic
Authors: Miller Dale , Nadathur Gopalan
Published: August 2012

Formal systems that describe computations over syntactic structures occur frequently in computer science. Logic programming provides a natural framework for encoding and animating such systems. However, these systems often embody variable binding, a notion that must be treated carefully at a computational level. This book aims to show that a programming language based on a simply typed version of higher-order logic provides an elegant, declarative means for providing such a treatment. Three broad topics are covered in pursuit of this goal. First, a proof-theoretic framework that supports a general view of logic programming is identified. Second, an actual language called λProlog is developed by applying this view to higher-order logic. Finally, a methodology for programming with specifications is exposed by showing how several computations over formal objects such as logical formulas, functional programs, and λ-terms and π-calculus expressions can be encoded in λProlog.
Game Theory
Authors: Heifetz Aviad
Published: August 2012

Game theory is concerned with strategic interaction among several decision-makers. In such strategic encounters, all players are aware of the fact that their actions affect the other players. Game theory analyzes how these strategic, interactive considerations may affect the players' decisions and influence the final outcome. This textbook focuses on applications of complete-information games in economics and management, as well as in other fields such as political science, law and biology. It guides students through the fundamentals of game theory by letting examples lead the way to the concepts needed to solve them. It provides opportunities for self-study and self-testing through an extensive pedagogical apparatus of examples, questions and answers. The book also includes more advanced material suitable as a basis for seminar papers or elective topics, including rationalizability, stability of equilibria (with discrete-time dynamics), games and evolution, equilibrium selection and global games.
The Mammalian Jaw
Authors: Greaves Walter Stalker
Published: August 2012

Mammalian skull structure is notably diverse; however at a basic level the jaw mechanism is remarkably similar, if not essentially the same, in the majority of mammals. Using simple models that are compared with real animals at every step, this book examines the basic structural features of the mammalian jaw mechanism from a mechanical point of view. It explores how the mechanical constraints placed on the jaw have contributed to the evolution of an efficient basic structure, used by many mammals, which precludes mechanical difficulties and uses a minimum amount of bone tissue. Throughout the book the emphasis is on conceptual understanding, with explanations linked together to form a complete story that can be applied to both fossil and extant mammals. Summarising over forty years of research from one of the leading pioneers in 3D jaw mechanics, this is a must-have for anyone interested in mammalian jaw morphology.
Thomas Jefferson and American Nationhood
Authors: Steele Brian
Published: August 2012

This book emphasises the centrality of nationhood to Thomas Jefferson's thought and politics, envisioning Jefferson as a cultural nationalist whose political project sought the alignment of the American state system with the will and character of the nation. Jefferson believed that America was the one nation on earth able to realise in practice universal ideals to which other peoples could only aspire. He appears in the book as the essential narrator of what he once called the 'American Story': as the historian, the sociologist and the ethnographer; the political theorist of the nation; the most successful practitioner of its politics; and its most enthusiastic champion. The book argues that reorienting Jefferson around the concept of American nationhood recovers an otherwise easily missed coherence to his political career and helps make sense of a number of conundrums in his thought and practice.
Exercises in Probability
Authors: Chaumont Loïc , Yor Marc
Published: August 2012

Derived from extensive teaching experience in Paris, this second edition now includes over 100 exercises in probability. New exercises have been added to reflect important areas of current research in probability theory, including infinite divisibility of stochastic processes, past-future martingales and fluctuation theory. For each exercise the authors provide detailed solutions as well as references for preliminary and further reading. There are also many insightful notes to motivate the student and set the exercises in context. Students will find these exercises extremely useful for easing the transition between simple and complex probabilistic frameworks. Indeed, many of the exercises here will lead the student on to frontier research topics in probability. Along the way, attention is drawn to a number of traps into which students of probability often fall. This book is ideal for independent study or as the companion to a course in advanced probability theory.
The Rule of Law and the Measure of Property
Authors: Waldron Jeremy
Published: August 2012

When property rights and environmental legislation clash, what side should the Rule of Law weigh in on? It is from this point that Jeremy Waldron explores the Rule of Law both from an historical perspective - considering the property theory of John Locke - and from the perspective of modern legal controversies. This critical and direct account of the relation between the Rule of Law and the protection of private property criticizes the view - associated with the 'World Bank model' of investor expectations - that a society which fails to protect property rights against legislative restriction is failing to support the Rule of Law. In this book, developed from the 2011 Hamlyn Lectures, Waldron rejects the idea that the Rule of Law privileges property rights over other forms of law and argues instead that the Rule of Law should endorse and applaud the use of legislation to achieve valid social objectives.
Including Infants: An Inter-Agency Model for Parent–Infant Mental Health and Well-Being in Rural Regions
Authors: Curtis Katy
Published: August 2012

There are well-recognised and articulated difficulties in the provision of health services to communities in rural and remote areas. These difficulties encompass practicalities and geography, economics and politics, as well as the personal and professional. This article describes a multi-level model developed by a group of regional services to address the mental health and well-being needs of infants and small children of rural and remote families, utilising existing resources creatively and collaboratively. The model draws on understandings from attachment theory about the nature and needs of humans as relational beings.
Permanency Planning Concepts
Authors: Osmond Jennifer , Tilbury Clare
Published: August 2012

Permanency, stability and continuity are essential components of quality out-of-home care. Permanency planning is a case planning process designed to promote stability and long-term connections for children subject to child protection intervention. This paper outlines findings from a small qualitative study that explored perceptions of permanency planning held by child protection practitioners, carers, and the parents of children in care in Queensland, Australia. Findings show that each group emphasised different aspects of permanency. Practitioners tended to focus on placement arrangements, carers focused on relationships and security, and parents were concerned about the quality of care their children received. Everyone involved in permanency decisions – whether children and young people, parents, carers or child protection practitioners – has ideas, theories and knowledge that they draw upon in expressing their views. Understanding these perspectives is useful for the decision-making process, as each stakeholder communicates with others about what they think is most important for the child. Implications for child protection practice include having a clear practice language and approach to permanency planning, exploring the unique areas of importance to different stakeholders on permanency planning, and ensuring quality participatory practice.
Advising the Alien: Investigating Young Children's Learning of Dog Safety Messages
Authors: Nichols Sue , Thompson Kirrilly , Blunden Sarah
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of a dog safety program on the protective behaviour knowledge of children in the first year of school. This mixed methods study utilised pre- and post-testing (N = 121), observation of six sessions and individual interviews with a sub-group of children (N = 49). These interviews utilised a co-constructed narrative strategy where children were invited to assist an imaginary alien to safely navigate hypothetical safety scenarios. All schools improved their knowledge of safe dog interactions, with an overall increase in knowledge of 18%. Most children were able to apply abstract knowledge to hypothetical scenarios involving accompanied and unaccompanied dogs. Of concern, 24% of children still believed that dogs liked being patted on their heads and 16% of children had not overcome their intuitive reaction to run from a threatening dog. Whilst the program has made significant improvements to children's knowledge of safe dog-interactions, more gains can be made. We identify important opportunities for improving dog safety programs in general. We comment on the need to consider the impact of different models of child–dog relations in terms of either similitude or difference.
Finite Element Based Point Stress Criterion for Predicting the Notched Strengths of Composite Plates
Authors: Tsai K.-H. , Hwan C.-L. , Lin M.-J. , Huang Y. S.
Published: August 2012

In this study, a novel procedure has been developed for predicting the notched strengths of composite plates each with a center hole. In this approach, the stress distribution of a composite plate with a center hole is first obtained by a finite element analysis, in which the experimental notched strength is applied at the boundary of the finite element model. Secondly, the point stress criterion (PSC) is used to find the characteristic length for each plate with different size of hole by an interpolation of the finite element analysis results. The characteristic length is then expressed as an empirical function of the hole size as well as the width of the plate. Finally, the notched strengths of composite plates are predicted based on the empirical function and the finite element analysis results incorporated with the principle of superposition in elasticity. For validation, three different cases from the literatures are adopted for comparison. It is shown that the predicted notched strengths by this new methodology agree well with both the experimental results and the results from analytical solutions based PSC.