bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) for sepsis: a meta-analysis
Authors: Bo Lulong , Wang Fei , Zhu Jiali , Li Jinbao , Deng Xiaoming
Published: February 2011

Introduction

To investigate the effects of G-CSF or GM-CSF therapy in non-neutropenic patients with sepsis.

Methods

A systematic literature search of Medline, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted using specific search terms. A manual review of references was also performed. Eligible studies were randomized control trials (RCTs) that compared granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) or granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) therapy with placebo for the treatment of sepsis in adults. Main outcome measures were all-cause mortality at 14 days and 28 days after initiation of G-CSF or GM-CSF therapy, in-hospital mortality, reversal rate from infection, and adverse events.

Results

Twelve RCTs with 2,380 patients were identified. In regard to 14-day mortality, a total of 9 death events occurred among 71 patients (12.7%) in the treatment group compared with 13 events among 67 patients (19.4%) in the placebo groups. Meta-analysis showed there was no significant difference in 28-day mortality when G-CSF or GM-CSF were compared with placebo (relative risks (RR) = 0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.79 to 1.11, P = 0.44; P for heterogeneity = 0.31, I2 = 15%). Compared with placebo, G-CSF or GM-CSF therapy did not significantly reduce in-hospital mortality (RR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.69 to 1.36, P = 0.86; P for heterogeneity = 0.80, I2 = 0%). However, G-CSF or GM-CSF therapy significantly increased the reversal rate from infection (RR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.11 to 1.62, P = 0.002; P for heterogeneity = 0.47, I2 = 0%). No significant difference was observed in adverse events between groups (RR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.70 to 1.23, P = 0.62; P for heterogeneity = 0.03, I2 = 58%). Sensitivity analysis by excluding one trial did not significantly change the results of adverse events (RR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.84 to 1.32, P = 0.44; P for heterogeneity = 0.17, I2 = 36%).

Conclusions

There is no current evidence supporting the routine use of G-CSF or GM-CSF in patients with sepsis. Large prospective multicenter clinical trials investigating monocytic HLA-DR (mHLA-DR)-guided G-CSF or GM-CSF therapy in patients with sepsis-associated immunosuppression are warranted.
The Calcium-Sensing Receptor: A Molecular Perspective
Authors: Magno Aaron L. , Ward Bryan K. , Ratajczak Thomas
Published: February 2011

Compelling evidence of a cell surface receptor sensitive to extracellular calcium was observed as early as the 1980s and was finally realized in 1993 when the calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) was cloned from bovine parathyroid tissue. Initial studies relating to the CaR focused on its key role in extracellular calcium homeostasis, but as the amount of information about the receptor grew it became evident that it was involved in many biological processes unrelated to calcium homeostasis. The CaR responds to a diverse array of stimuli extending well beyond that merely of calcium, and these stimuli can lead to the initiation of a wide variety of intracellular signaling pathways that in turn are able to regulate a diverse range of biological processes. It has been through the examination of the molecular characteristics of the CaR that we now have an understanding of how this single receptor is able to convert extracellular messages into specific cellular responses. Recent CaR-related reviews have focused on specific aspects of the receptor, generally in the context of the CaR's role in physiology and pathophysiology. This review will provide a comprehensive exploration of the different aspects of the receptor, including its structure, stimuli, signalling, interacting protein partners, and tissue expression patterns, and will relate their impact on the functionality of the CaR from a molecular perspective.
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist Treatment in Postmenopausal Women with Hyperandrogenism of Ovarian Origin
Authors: Vollaard Esther S. , van Beek André P. , Verburg Frederik A. J. , Roos Annemieke , Land Jolande A.
Published: February 2011

Context:

The most frequent cause of virilization in postmenopausal women is excessive androgen production of ovarian origin. Bilateral oophorectomy is usually performed, even in cases of benign tumors or hyperthecosis. This is the first report of a case series of long-term GnRH-agonist treatment of hyperandrogenism in postmenopausal women.

Objective:

We present three women with postmenopausal hyperandrogenism of ovarian origin who were treated with GnRH agonists.

Patients:

We describe three cases of postmenopausal women with virilization and hyperandrogenism of presumed ovarian origin, all with slight enlargement of the ovaries but without visualization of a tumor, who had long-term treatment with GnRH agonists. No histological diagnosis was available, and therefore all patients received careful follow-up, including periodic testing of androgen levels and ovarian imaging by computed tomography scans. The three patients responded in different ways to treatment with GnRH agonists.

Conclusions:

Long-term GnRH agonist treatment is an acceptable choice for treatment of postmenopausal hyperandrogenism in patients where ovarian origin of androgen excess is ascertained, and especially in those patients who have an increased risk for surgery due to comorbidities or who are unwilling to undergo bilateral oophorectomy.
Flash Mobs and the Diffusion of Audience
Authors: Muse John H.
Published: February 2011

John H. Muse surveys the recent phenomenon of the flash mob—brief, participatory performances in public spaces, often advertised virally and lasting no more than a few moments. He discusses the work of Improv Everywhere, particularly their events Frozen Grand Central and No Pants Subway Ride, as well as Bill Wasik's flash mobs and International Pillow Fight Day, among others. Muse considers the many types of audiences—live and mediated—that observe flash mobs and uses their relationship to these new types of participatory performance as clues to understanding spectatorship in a digitized age.
Urban Folk Art
Authors: Freedlander David
Published: February 2011

David Freedlander surveys a variety of performance events designed to reconfigure the relationships between urban space and urban dwellers in New York City. He describes a burgeoning guerrilla performance culture—from kicklines on the steps of the New York Public Library to impromptu road soccer matches conducted with a flaming ball— aimed at reclaiming the city, resisting processes of gentrification, homogenization, and corporatization.
Organic Radical Battery Approaching Practical Use
Authors: Nakahara Kentaro , Oyaizu Kenichi , Nishide Hiroyuki
Published: February 2011

The electrochemical redox reactions of organic polymers bearing robust unpaired electrons were investigated to determine the applicability of these polymers to rechargeable batteries. Such an “organic radical battery” would be environmentally friendly and have high-power characteristics. This highlight review describes the performance of a battery using a nitroxyl radical polymer as the cathode active material. The electron-transfer mechanism and recent developments that should lead to the practical application of the organic radical battery are also described.
Chitosan as Morphology-directing Agent for the Preparation of Multiarmed Selenium/Carbon Coaxial Nanorods
Authors: Yu Bo , Chen Tianfeng , Yang Fang , Liu Wen , Li Ying-Hua , Zheng Wenjie
Published: February 2011

A facile approach for the synthesis of multiarmed selenium/carbon (Se/C) coaxial nanorods by using chitosan as morphology-directing agents and selenious acid as the Se source has been demonstrated in the present study. Multiarmed Se/C nanorods, consisting of I-, Y-, T-, and cross-shaped configurations, were prepared by controlling the temperature and the ratio of amount of chitosan and Se in the reaction systems.
Synthesis and Magnetic Properties of Double B Mixed Perovskite Series La0.75K0.25Mn1−xFexO3
Authors: Zhang Ganghua , Fan Min
Published: February 2011

A series of double B mixed perovskite oxides La0.75K0.25Mn1−xFexO3 (x = 0.2–0.5) were synthesized under mild hydrothermal conditions and characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, SEM, ICP, XPS, iodometric titration, and SQUID. All the compounds corresponded to orthorhombic structure of space group Pnma and presented a cuboid morphology. The oxidation state of Fe is +3 whereas Mn is a mixed valence of Mn3+/Mn4+. The curves M vs. T for all the compositions indicated the coexistence of ferro- and antiferromagnetic contribution.
Aqueous Preparation of Highly Luminescent CdSe/ZnS Nanocrystals through Photochemical Processing
Authors: Li Chunliang , Ando Masanori , Sakai Eiichi , Enomoto Hiroyuki , Taguchi Takahisa , Murase Norio
Published: February 2011

Highly luminescent CdSe/ZnS nanocrystals were prepared in an aqueous solution. CdSe cores capped with thiolglycolic acid (TGA) were coated with a ZnS shell through photochemical decomposition of TGA in a Zn-dispersed solution. The molar ratios of Cd2+:TGA:Se2− upon core synthesis were crucial to obtain CdSe/ZnS showing high photoluminescence (PL) efficiency. High PL efficiency (50%) with narrow spectral width (50 nm) was obtained after photochemically coating the core with a thick ZnS shell after optimizing the solution composition during ultraviolet irradiation.
Composite Polymer Materials Consisting of Nanofilms Formed by Click Reaction between Polymers at an Oil–Water Interface
Authors: Kai Shuhei , Ashaduzzaman Md , Uemura Shinobu , Kunitake Masashi
Published: February 2011

New polymer materials, including thin films, soft gels, and hollow capsules, consisting of composite polymer nanofilms were prepared by the Cu(I)-catalyzed Huisgen click reaction between lipophilic polymers or between lipophilic and hydrophilic polymers. Because the lipophilic polymer, or hydrophilic polymer and copper catalyst were present in the oil or aqueous phase, respectively, the crosslinking reaction proceeded only at the phase interface. The combination of lipophilic and hydrophilic polymers produced “Janus” nanofilms with both hydrophilic and lipophilic surfaces.
The perils of basic income: ambiguous opportunities for the implementation of a utopian proposal
Authors: Jordan Bill
Published: February 2011

The oft-repeated accusation of utopianism against basic income advocates is contradicted by evidence that aspects of this proposal may be entering the social policy mainstream. But – as in every sphere of public policy – the measures proposed are compromised with other longstanding principles. Using the example of the tax-benefit reforms scheduled to be introduced in the United Kingdom (UK), this article argues that there are risks of undesirable consequences (in terms of justice and equal citizenship) from the adoption of such partial versions of the scheme, but that they represent necessary first steps towards the gains claimed for a full basic income.
An oxidative carbon–carbon bond-forming reaction proceeds via an isolable iminium ion
Authors: Tsang Althea S.-K. , Jensen Paul , Hook James M. , Hashmi A. Stephen K. , Todd Matthew H.
Published: February 2011

The mechanism of our previously reported DDQ-mediated oxidative C–C bond-forming reaction is investigated. We are able to trap and characterize an iminium ion intermediate with X-ray crystallography, elemental analysis, and solid-state NMR spectroscopy; to our knowledge this is the first time this putative intermediate ion has been directly observed in such cross-dehydrogenative couplings (CDCs). The intermediate can be reacted with a range of nucleo-philes, including a malonate that is not amenable to a one-pot reaction protocol.
New Silver-Gold Intensification Method of Diaminobenzidine for Double-Labeling Immunoelectron Microscopy
Authors: Dobó Endre , Takács Virág T. , Gulyás Attila I. , Nyiri Gábor , Mihály András , Freund Tamás F.
Published: February 2011

The available methods for double-labeling preembedding immunoelectron microscopy are highly limited because not only should the ultrastructure be preserved, but also the different antigens should be visualized by reaction end products that can be clearly distinguished in gray-scale images. In these procedures, one antigen is detected with 3,3′-diaminobenzidine (DAB) chromogen, resulting in a homogeneous deposit, whereas the other is labeled with either a gold-tagged immunoreagent, or DAB polymer, on the surface of which metallic silver is precipitated. The detection of the second antigen is usually impeded by the first, leading to false-negative results. The authors aimed to diminish this hindrance by a new silver intensification technique of DAB polymer, which converts the deposit from amorphous to granular. The method includes three major postdevelopmental steps: (1) treatment of nickel-enhanced DAB with sulfide, (2) silver deposition in the presence of hydroquinone under acidic conditions, and (3) precious metal replacement with gold thiocyanate. This new sulfide-silver-gold intensification of DAB (SSGI) allows a subsequent detection of other antigens using DAB. In conclusion, the new technique loads fine gold particles onto the DAB deposit at a very low background level, thereby allowing a reliable discernment between the elements stained for the two antigens at the ultrastructural level.
Comparison of Cardiovascular Prognosis by 3 Serum Cystatin C Methods in the Heart and Soul Study
Authors: Shlipak Michael G , Weekley Cristin C , Li Yongmei , Hansson Lars-Olof , Larsson Anders , Whooley Mary
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND

Cystatin C is a promising new biomarker to determine the estimated glomerular filtration. However, the Siemens' cystatin C assay (Siemens), used in many longitudinal studies, has had limited clinical applicability because it requires a specific, dedicated instrument. Other companies, including Gentian and Roche, have developed cystatin C assays that can be used with most routine clinical chemistry analyzers.

METHODS

We compared the agreement of Gentian and Roche with Siemens assays in 948 participants at the baseline visit of the Heart and Soul Study, a cohort of participants with established coronary artery disease who were followed for an average of 8 years. We then compared associations of all 3 cystatin C measures and eGFR–Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) with clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

The Gentian assay had higher correlation with Siemens (r = 0.96) than did Roche (r = 0.93, P < 0.001). After cross-tabulating quartiles of each cystatin C measure, agreements (κ statistic) were higher for Siemens and Gentian (0.73, 95% CI 0.72–0.75) than for Roche and Siemens (0.64, 0.63–0.66) or for Roche and Gentian (0.69, 0.65–0.71). These differences in agreement had minimal impact on associations with clinical outcomes; the hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality comparing the high vs low quartiles were 3.2 (95% CI 2.1–4.8) for Siemens, 3.1 (CI 2.1–4.7) for Gentian, 3.1 (CI 2.1–4.7) for Roche, and 1.6 (CI 1.1–2.3) for eGFR-MDRD, after multivariate adjustment.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, agreement with the Siemens' assay was modestly higher for the Gentian compared with the Roche assay, although all 3 methods for cystatin C measurement had similar utility as predictors of clinical outcomes.
Helicobacter pylori-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of IKKβ contributes to NF-κB activation
Authors: Rieke Cornelia , Papendieck Anja , Sokolova Olga , Naumann Michael
Published: February 2011

Helicobacter pylori, the etiological agent of several human gastric diseases, induces the transcription factor nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in colonized epithelial cells leading to the release of proinflammatory mediators. Activation of NF-κB involves the IκB kinase (IKK)-complex composed of two catalytic subunits, IKKα and IKKβ, and a regulatory scaffold protein, IKKγ. IKKβ was shown to be essential for NF-κB activation in response to a variety of stimuli including H. pylori. In addition to the phosphorylation of serine residues, tyrosine phosphorylation could be crucial for IKKβ activation. Here we provide evidence that IKKβ phosphorylation is induced in lipid rafts (DRM fractions) of H. pylori-infected cells, but not TNFα-stimulated cells. Furthermore, H. pylori transiently induces binding of IKKβ to c-Src kinase. Inhibition of c-Src by specific inhibitors as well as knockdown of c-Src by small interfering RNA reduced phosphorylation of IκBα as well as of p65. Thus, tyrosine-phosphorylated IKKβ contributes at least in part to NF-κB activation in response to H. pylori infection.
Identification of plasma haptoglobin forms which loosely bind hemoglobin
Authors: Spagnuolo Maria Stefania , Cigliano Luisa , Maresca Bernardetta , Pugliese Carmela Regina , Abrescia Paolo
Published: February 2011

Haptoglobin (Hpt) is known to capture circulating free hemoglobin (Hb) and bind apolipoprotein (Apo) A-I or E. Here, we report that Hb can be tightly bound by most of Hpt molecules (TB-Hpt, 80%), whereas loosely bound by a minor part of them (LB-Hpt, 20%). LB-Hpt amount was significantly increased (over 60%) in patients with acute coronary syndrome. LB-Hpt bound ApoA-I and ApoE less efficiently than TB-Hpt (8- and 4-fold less, respectively) and did not affect their activity of stimulating the enzyme lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase. LB-Hpt and TB-Hpt displayed comparable levels of nitrotyrosine residues, but differences in glycan chains. Changes in LB-Hpt level might be associated with changes in Hpt functions.
RNA-dependent RNA polymerases in RNA silencing
Authors: Maida Yoshiko , Masutomi Kenkichi
Published: February 2011

RNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RdRPs) synthesize double-stranded RNAs that are processed into small RNAs and mediate gene silencing. Viral RdRPs and cellular RdRPs show little structural homology to each other. Cellular RdRPs play key roles in RNA silencing by producing complementary strands for target RNAs via Dicer-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Although the existence of a functional mammalian homolog of RdRP has long been predicted, traditional approaches to identify such enzymes were unsuccessful. Recently, human telomerase reverse transcriptase, a polymerase closely related to viral RdRPs, has been shown to function as an RdRP and contributes to RNA silencing in vivo. These findings suggest that endogenous small interfering RNAs are produced by several mechanisms in eukaryotes.
Allele-selective inhibition of ataxin-3 (ATX3) expression by antisense oligomers and duplex RNAs
Authors: Hu Jiaxin , Gagnon Keith T. , Liu Jing , Watts Jonathan K. , Syeda-Nawaz Jeja , Bennett C. Frank , Swayze Eric E. , Randolph John , Chattopadhyaya Jyoti , Corey David R.
Published: February 2011

Spinocerebellar ataxia-3 (also known as Machado-Joseph disease) is an incurable neurodegenerative disorder caused by expression of a mutant variant of ataxin-3 (ATX3) protein. Inhibiting expression of ATX3 would provide a therapeutic strategy, but indiscriminant inhibition of both wild-type and mutant ATX3 might lead to undesirable side effects. An ideal silencing agent would block expression of mutant ATX3 while leaving expression of wild-type ATX3 intact. We have previously observed that peptide nucleic acid (PNA) conjugates targeting the expanded CAG repeat within ATX3 mRNA block expression of both alleles. We have now identified additional PNAs capable of inhibiting ATX3 expression that vary in length and in the nature of the conjugated cation chain. We can also achieve potent and selective inhibition using duplex RNAs containing one or more mismatches relative to the CAG repeat. Anti-CAG antisense bridged nucleic acid oligonucleotides that lack a cationic domain are potent inhibitors but are not allele-selective. Allele-selective inhibitors of ATX3 expression provide insights into the mechanism of selectivity and promising lead compounds for further development and in vivo investigation.
Optical characteristics of wood investigated by time-of-flight near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Kurata Yohei , Fujimoto Takaaki , Tsuchikawa Satoru
Published: February 2011

A new optical measurement system, the main components of which are a diode-pumped solid state laser and avalanche photodiodes, was introduced to clarify the optical characteristics of wood from the viewpoint of time-of-flight near infrared spectroscopy. The sample thickness and the wavelength of input pulsed laser clearly influenced the transmitted time-resolved profile. The effective optical path length became 15 times longer than the sample thickness. The optical model based on the diffusion approximation to the radiative transfer equation proved to be useful for thick samples, which can be optically regarded as an ideal diffuser, although wood is a structural material with non-homogeneous cellular structure.
Potential of pulp and paper sludge as a formaldehyde scavenger agent in MDF resins
Authors: Migneault Sébastien , Koubaa Ahmed , Riedl Bernard , Nadji Hamid , Deng James , Zhang Tony (S.Y.)
Published: February 2011

Sludge of pulp and paper mills have natural adhesive properties. The primary sludge (PS, contains fibers) and secondary sludge (SS, contains proteins) could also be suitable for manufacturing medium-density fiberboard (MDF). Protein in SS can react with formaldehyde (HCHO), and as an additive in urea-formaldehyde (UF) resins it can reduce formaldehyde emission. Thus, SS was investigated in the present study. PS and SS were collected from two mills and characterized in terms of chemical composition, fiber length distribution, pH, and buffering capacity. MDF samples were processed according to an experimental design, in which UF resin content was reduced from 12% to 8% and replaced by SS in the range of 5%–15%. Gel time measurement showed high SS reactivity with UF resin. The SS reduced HCHO emissions by up to 68% compared to control panels, without compromising internal bond strength. The bonding effect of SS was lower than expected due to the high pH, thus the buffering capacity reduced UF performance. Moreover, sludge reduced bending performance. Dimensional stability was the greatest disadvantage of sludge panels.
Remarks on chains of weakly closed subgroups
Authors: Gilotti Anna Luisa , Serena Luigi
Published: February 2011

In this paper we generalize and unify several results proved in recent papers about the existence of normal p-complements and conditions on supersolubility.

Moreover a counterexample is given to a question in [Guo and Wei, J. Group Theory 13: 267–276, 2010] and it is proved that a finite group is 2-nilpotent if the cyclic subgroups of order less or equal than four are strongly closed.
Water Content Measurement in Expansive Soils Using the Neutron Probe
Authors: Fityus Stephen , Wells Tony , Huang Wenxiong
Published: February 2011

Capacitance-type methods for measuring soil water content are known to be unreliable in expansive soils, as cracking disrupts the intimate contact between the soil and the measuring device. The neutron probe, which infers water content from the thermalisation of a cloud of neutrons, is potentially less affected by cracking. The effect of cracking on neutron probe measurements was investigated by a series of numerical simulations using an axisymmetric finite element model based on seven-group neutron-diffusion theory. The simulations employed a consistent soil cracking model based on Maryland clay, in which crack volumes are determined from the changes in void ratio in the shrinking bulk soil. The results show that the presence of cracks in a clay soil affects the inferred water content and that measurements affected by air-filled cracking under-predict not only the water content in the uncracked soil peds but also the average water content in the larger cracked soil mass. The reason for this under-prediction is understood by considering the spatial distribution of the thermalised neutrons in the cracked and uncracked soils. The fast neutrons emitted from the source are seen to diffuse preferentially along air-filled cracks, traveling a large distance from the detector before they become thermalised, thus reducing their likelihood of being back-scattered to the detector where they can be counted. The proximity of the first crack to the probe in the ground also affects the measurement. Water-filled cracks are seen to have the opposite (but lesser) effect to air-filled cracks. A comparison of a simple uniform width crack model to a more realistic model in which crack width varies with changing water content shows that the model is sensitive to crack distribution and that the linear calibration expressions that are typically employed for neutron probes are likely to be unreliable in cracked clay soils.
Preparation and quality control of166Ho-DTPA-antiCD20 for radioimmunotherapy
Authors: Zolghadri Samaneh , Jalilian A. R. , Yousefnia Hassan , Bahrami-Samani A. , Shirvani-Arani Simindokht , Ghannadi-Maragheh M.
Published: February 2011

In this work, anti-CD20 was successively labeled with beta-particle emitting radionuclide, Ho-166, for ultimate radioimmunotherapy applications. Ho-166 chloride was obtained by thermal neutron flux (1×1013 n cm−2s−1) of natural Ho2(NO3)3sample, dissolved in acidic media.166Ho-holmium chloride (185 MBq) was added to the conjugated antibody after ccDTPA residulation at room temperature. Radiochemical purity of 95% (ITLC) and 98% (HPLC) were obtained for final radioimmunoconjugate (specific activity =3–3.5 GBq/mg). The final isotonic166Ho-rituximab complex was checked by gel electrophoresis for protein integrity retention. Biodistribution studies of Ho-166 chloride and radioimmunoconjugate were performed in wild-type rats to determine the biodistribution. The accumulation of the radiolabeled antibody in lungs, liver and spleen demonstrates a similar pattern to the other radiolabeled anti-CD20 immunoconjugates.
The thermal release of scandium from titanium metal – a simple way to produce pure44Sc for PET application
Authors: Wittwer David , Dressler R. , Eichler Robert , Gäggeler H. W. , Piguet D. , Serov A. , Türler Andreas , Vögele A.
Published: February 2011

The radionuclide-generator based access to radiopharmaceutical isotopes represents a valuable alternative to directly produced isotopes at particle accelerators or nuclear reactors. The44Ti based generator is of increasing interest for the delivery of PET-radiopharmaceutical isotopes used for imaging. The product of this generator44Sc represents with its 3.97 h half-life and 94.3% positron branching [1] a very promising candidate for labeling PET radiopharmaceuticals. The long half-life of 58.9±0.3 y [2] of the44Ti assures a constant and long lasting production of the daughter nuclide.

Here we present a gas phase separation method of scandium from titaniumviathermal release in vacuum. Titanium foils were irradiated with40Ar to produce scandium in multi-nucleon transfer reactions. Another production reaction used was the irradiation of titanium by neutrons from the SINQ neutron source at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI).

The titanium metal foils containing44mSc and46Sc were heated up for time periods of 15 and 60 min to temperatures between 900 °C and 1500 °C in vacuum. Thus, release properties of scandium from titanium under these conditions were studied. The released scandium was collected on tantalum foils and could be rinsed of with concentrated nitric acid resulting in carrier free scandium nitrate solutions. From the experimental results optimum release conditions are suggested.
The end of the revival
Authors: Moore Allan
Published: February 2011

Do ‘folk musicians’ (whatever they are) think about what they are trying to do when they perform in ways different to those of ‘pop musicians’, ‘rock musicians’ or ‘classical musicians’? In other words, is there such a thing as a ‘folk aesthetic’, and can it be identified through the musical performances they give? (Such an implicit identification is always more satisfactory than any explicit one since it is harder to falsify.) After contextualizing the relationship between English folk and popular musics over the past few decades, this paper will argue that such an aesthetic can be identified, through a judicious combination of the analysis of recordings and written accounts, and it will proceed to do so. It will also argue, and demonstrate, that such an aesthetic has begun to mutate over the most recent decade, and suggest a possible consequence of such a mutation.
Bono! Do you ever take those wretched sunglasses off?
Authors: McLaughlin Noel
Published: February 2011

This article argues that the band U2 and lead singer Bono have been largely neglected in popular music studies. It aims to address this through a detailed consideration of the band’s negotiation of Irish identity, examining music press discourse about the band and offering an analysis of the band in performance. The article focuses mainly on Bono and seeks to consider the performer’s overall star-text, his prominent role as a global celebrity activist and the specificities of his performing style. The analysis is centred largely on the band’s Zoo TV period and their apparent embrace of postmodern ideas and strategies. The essay argues against too simple a correspondence between the group and the postmodern and suggests that post-colonial critical approaches sensitive to the nuances of popular musical practices are more useful in understanding the types of identity the band has articulated.
An Analysis of Water Quality in the Colorado River, 2003–04; An Investigation Into Recurring Outbreaks of Norovirus Among Rafters
Authors: Jones Ellen L. , Gaither Marlene , Kramer Adam , Gerba Charles P.
Published: February 2011

Background

Every year over 22 000 people raft the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Since 1994, over 400 rafters in 6 separate outbreaks have become ill with norovirus while rafting this stretch of the river.

Objectives

To assess potential causes of these outbreaks, Colorado River water, water from nearby wastewater treatment plants, and a drinking water source were sampled and tested for norovirus and other water quality indicators.

Methods

Colorado River water was collected and sampled during the 2004 rafting season. Water from wastewater treatment plants near the Lee's Ferry launch site and drinking water from the Lee's Ferry launch site were also examined during the 2003 and 2004 rafting seasons. Stool samples from ill rafters and composite stool samples from onboard toilet-cans were tested for the presence of norovirus during the 2003 and 2004 outbreaks. Parameters examined included the following: norovirus by reverse transcriptase– polymerase chain reaction, coliforms, Escherichia coli, temperature, turbidity, and pH.

Results

No norovirus was detected in the Colorado River during the 2004 field sampling. Norovirus was detected in the Glen Canyon Dam Wastewater Treatment Plant on one occasion in 2004. Drinking water from the Lee's Ferry launch site was negative for norovirus in 2003, and Colorado River water from the Lee's Ferry launch site was negative for norovirus in 2004. In 2003, 3 of 10 stool samples from ill rafters or onboard toilet-cans were positive for norovirus. Neither of 2 stool samples collected in 2004 was positive for norovirus.

Conclusions

Colorado River water tested during nonoutbreak periods was negative for norovirus, indicating that there is not an ongoing high level of norovirus contamination in the river. No source or sources of contamination could be identified from the testing. Potential sources of norovirus outbreaks among rafters include drinking contaminated river water, consuming contaminated foodstuff, rafter importation of the virus and subsequent person-to-person spread, and contaminated fomites, campsites, or equipment. It is likely outbreaks are the result of more than one source of norovirus, and the exact source remains unknown for several outbreaks.
Ankle-Brachial Index on Kilimanjaro: Lessons from High Altitude
Authors: Nault Patrice , Halman Samantha , Paradis Josée
Published: February 2011

Objective

This study investigated the effects of a high–sympathetic stimulus environment (high-altitude hypoxia) on limb-specific systolic blood pressure (sBP) and ankle-brachial index (ABI) in normal volunteers. We hypothesized that currently accepted normal values for ABI may in fact not reflect an actual normal vascular state in all patients.

Methods

Twenty climbers (17 males, 3 females) from Gatineau-Hull (Québec, Canada) participated in this study and ascended Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa. Ankle-brachial index measurements were performed at sea level and on Mount Kilimanjaro at ∼4100 m. The data were analyzed using predictive analytics software SPSS 14.0. Data obtained at sea level were compared to those obtained at ∼4100 m, with participants serving as their own controls.

Results

Ankle-brachial indices measured at ∼4100 m (mean = 1.20) were greater than those measured at sea level (mean = 0.97) ( n = −6.23; 95% CI: −.32 to −.17; P < .001). There were no significant differences between the systolic brachial pressures at ∼4100 m when compared to those at sea level ( P = .814). Contrarily, systolic ankle pressures at sea level (mean = 132) were significantly greater than those measured at ∼4100 m (mean = 152) ( t = −3.5, 95% CI: −29 to −7.4; P = .002).

Conclusions

This study is the first to physiologically demonstrate that in response to a high adrenergic stimulus in healthy volunteers there is a greater increase in sBP in the legs vs the arms.
Comparison of a SAM Splint-Molded Cervical Collar with a Philadelphia Cervical Collar
Authors: McGrath Todd , Murphy Crystal
Published: February 2011

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of a SAM splint molded into a cervical collar with that of a Philadelphia cervical collar at limiting movement of the cervical spine in 5 different movements.

Methods

This study was prospectively carried out in 13 healthy volunteer subjects. A hand-held goniometer was then used to measure degrees of maximal extension (starting in a maximally flexed position), rotation (left and right), and lateral flexion (left and right) with each collar. The results were then analyzed for the 5 independent movements using the paired t test to determine the effectiveness of the SAM splint compared with that of the Philadelphia collar.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between the Philadelphia collar and the SAM splint at limiting movement of the cervical spine in any of the measured movements or in total allowed degrees of movement.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that the SAM splint, when molded into a cervical collar, is as effective as the Philadelphia collar at limiting movement of the cervical spine.
Ginkgo biloba Does—and Does Not—Prevent Acute Mountain Sickness
Authors: Leadbetter Guy , Keyes Linda E. , Maakestad Kirsten M. , Olson Sheryl , Tissot van Patot Martha C. , Hackett Peter H.
Published: February 2011

Objective

To determine the efficacy of 2 different sources of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) in reducing the incidence and severity of acute mountain sickness (AMS) following rapid ascent to high altitude.

Methods

Two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled cohort studies were conducted in which participants were treated with GBE (240 mg·d−1) or placebo prior to and including the day of ascent from 1600 m to 4300 m (ascent in 2 hours by car). Acute mountain sickness was diagnosed if the Environmental Symptom Questionnaire III acute mountain sickness–cerebral (AMS-C) score was ≥0.7 and the Lake Louise Symptom (LLS) score was ≥3 and the participant reported a headache. Symptom severity was also determined by these scores.

Results

Results were conflicting: Ginkgo biloba reduced the incidence and severity of AMS compared to placebo in the first but not the second study. In the first study, GBE reduced AMS incidence (7/21) vs placebo (13/19) ( P = .027, number needed to treat = 3), and it also reduced severity (AMS-C = 0.77 ± 0.26 vs 1.59 ± 0.27, P = .029). In the second study, GBE did not reduce incidence or severity of AMS (GBE 4/15 vs placebo 10/22, P = .247; AMS-C = 0.48 ± 0.13 vs 0.58 ± 0.11, P = .272). The primary difference between the 2 studies was the source of GBE.

Conclusions

The source and composition of GBE products may determine the effectiveness of GBE for prophylaxis of AMS.
The Global Snakebite Crisis—A Public Health Issue Misunderstood, Not Neglected
Authors: Simpson Ian D. , Norris Robert L.
Published: February 2011

The global problem of venomous snakebite continues to attract attention despite it being described as a “neglected” issue. The current focus of the World Health Organization (WHO) remains anti– snake venom quality, although “availability and sustainability” of supply are consistently described as the key issues. Sustainability of antivenom supply has been elusive, with cost and pricing in developing countries being cited as the major reasons. The current WHO approach fails to explore the cost issue, but rather focuses on quality improvements, which may well adversely affect the costs of a product already perceived to be ‘unaffordable.’ The reference to cost and price indicates a marketing-based perspective may well give more relevant solutions to the snakebite crisis. This paper introduces a marketing model to examine global snakebite and to identify if the current approach is relevant and effective. The “4 Ps” model examines if the correct products are available, whether sufficient information exists concerning estimated market size, whether the assumptions frequently made about the costs of the product are correct and fully understood, if the product is promoted properly, and whether the method by which the product reaches the end user is optimum. The resulting analysis demonstrates that the current approach is characterized by a misunderstanding of the nature of the global snakebite problem. Further, a lack of implementation of key solutions, such as training doctors in developing countries with relevant protocols, has inevitably led to a lack of improvement in the snakebite arena over the last 30 years.
Human Fatalities Resulting From Dog Attacks in the United States, 1979–2005
Authors: Langley Ricky L.
Published: February 2011

Introduction

Dog attacks are a major public health concern worldwide. Dogs bite over 4 million people resulting in the hospitalization of 6000 to 13 000 people each year in the United States. Rarely deaths may occur after an attack.

Methods

This study utilized the compressed mortality files from CDC WONDER to evaluate deaths from dog attacks over the 27-year period 1979–2005.

Results

An average of approximately 19 deaths was reported annually from dog attacks during this time period. Males and children less than 10 years of age had the highest rate of death from dog attacks. Deaths have been reported in 49 states with Alaska reporting the highest death rate from dog attacks. The number of deaths and death rate from dog attacks appear to be increasing.

Conclusions

Deaths from dog attacks appear to be increasing as the population of both humans and dogs has increased during this time period. Children have the greatest risk of death. There is a need for a national reporting system on dog bites to fully capture the extent of fatalities and look at risk factors surrounding the attack. The development of effective prevention practices is dependent upon examination of these risk factors.
Damage assessment of the equine sperm membranes by fluorimetric technique
Authors: Celeghini Eneiva Carla Carvalho , Andrade André Furugen Cesar de , Raphael Cláudia Fernandes , Nascimento Juliana , Ticianelli Janahi Souza , Arruda Rubens Paes de
Published: February 2011

To validate a practical technique of simultaneous evaluation of the plasma, acrosomal and mitochondrial membranes in equine spermatozoa three fluorescent probes (PI, FITC-PSA and MITO) were associated. Four ejaculates from three stallions (n=12) were diluted in TALP medium and split into 2 aliquots, 1 aliquot was flash frozen in liquid nitrogen to induce damage in cellular membranes. Three treatments were prepared with the following fixed ratios of fresh semen: flash frozen semen: 100:0 (T100), 50:50 (T50), and 0:100 (T0). A 150-µL aliquot of diluted semen of each treatment was added of 2 µL of PI, 2 µL of MITO and 80 µL of FITC-PSA; incubated at 38.5ºC/8 min, and sperm cells were evaluated by epifluorescent microscopy. Based in regression analysis, this could be an efficient and practical technique to assess damage in equine spermatozoa, as it was able to determine the sperm percentage more representative of the potential to fertilize the oocyte.
Seed germination of Chresta sphaerocephala DC. and Lessingianthus bardanoides (Less.) H. Rob. (asteraceae) from Cerrado
Authors: Cury Graziela , Novembre Ana Dionísia da Luz Coelho , Glória Beatriz Appezzato da
Published: February 2011

This work aimed to study the effects of different temperature conditions on the germination of L. bardanoides and C. sphaerocephala seeds, compare the germination rates of these two species and estimate the occurrence of embryoless seeds. The results indicated that the best temperatures for the germination of L. bardanoides seeds were 20, 25 and 20-30ºC and for C. sphaerocephala, 20-35ºC and 40.32 µmol m-²s-¹ irradiance; L. bardanoides had a higher germination rate since the number of seeds with embryos higher compared with C. sphaerocephala.
General Health-Related Quality of Life and Oral Health Impact among Australians with Cleft Compared with Population Norms; Age and Gender Differences
Authors: Foo Peter , Sampson Wayne , Roberts Rachel , Jamieson Lisa , David David
Published: February 2011

Objective

To evaluate general health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and oral health impact among adults treated for cleft to determine age and gender differences, and to compare against population norms.

Design

Cross-sectional prospective study.

Participants/Setting

Nonsyndromic cleft patients treated by the Australian Craniofacial Unit from 1975 to 2009 were recruited (n = 112). Response rate was 79% (n = 88).

Main outcome measures

HRQoL was measured by the Short Form (SF)-36 questionnaire. Oral health impact was measured by the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP)-14 questionnaire. State-based and national norms were used for comparative purposes.

Results

There were no significant age or sex differences in the cleft sample's SF-36 and OHIP-14 scores. When compared against South Australian 2002 state-level norms, cleft participants scored higher on physical function and physical role function but lower on vitality and mental health. The prevalence of having experienced one or more of OHIP–14 items “fairly often” or “very often” was 2.7 times higher than national-level estimates, while extent was 2.8 times and severity 1.7 times higher.

Conclusions

The oral health impact among cleft patients included in our study was poor compared with population-level estimates. The HRQoL showed mixed results, with the vitality and mental health components being poorer in the cleft group compared with population-level estimates. These results indicate that treatment for orofacial clefting does not entirely remove the factors contributing to poor HRQoL and oral health.
Review Paper: A critical review of the present and future prospects for electronic paper
Authors: Heikenfeld Jason , Drzaic Paul , Yeo Jong‐Souk , Koch Tim
Published: February 2011

Abstract— The commercial success of monochrome electronic paper (e‐Paper) is now propelling the development of next‐generation flexible, video, and color e‐Paper products. Unlike the early battles in the 1980s and 1990s between transmissive and emissive display technologies, there is a extraordinary diversity of technologies vying to become the next generation of e‐Paper. A critical review of all major e‐Paper technologies, including a technical breakdown of the performance limitations based on device physics and commentary on possible future breakthroughs, is presented. In addition, the visual requirements for color e‐Paper are provided and compared to standards used in conventional print. It is concluded that researchers have much work remaining in order to bridge the significant gap between reflective electronic displays and print‐on‐paper.
Electronic passports with AMOLED displays
Authors: Fischer Joerg , Tietke Markus , Fritze Frank , Muth Oliver , Paeschke Manfred , Han DongWon , Kwack JinHo , Kim TaeJin , Lee JongHyuk , Kim SungChul , Chung HoKyoon
Published: February 2011

Abstract— The development of high‐security ID systems calls for never‐ending technical and economic innovation. As long as documents and items of high material or immaterial value continue to exist, there will always be attempts to copy or manipulate them. A revolutionary product concept for new ID systems with novel functionality and applications is described and the world's first ePassport containing a thin, bendable active‐matrix light‐emitting‐diode (AMOLED) display without an internal battery is presented.
Spatial gamut mapping algorithms for cross‐display color reproduction
Authors: Chen Hung‐Shing , Chen Shih‐Han
Published: February 2011

Abstract— Owing to the fast developments of computer networks and color imaging technologies, there is a tendency towards remote proofing in the printing or textile industries. More cases such as cross‐display color matching will occur in the future information society. The problems of color mismatching we usually find in cross‐display devices have been widely discussed today. In this paper, to achieve equivalent color matching between a sRGB monitor and an Adobe RGB monitor, the spatial gamut mapping algorithm (SGMA), which introduces sigmoidal tone mapping, multi‐mapping paths, and unsharp mask (USM) operation into a sRGB color‐management system, is proposed. According to the designs of USM locations, this proposed SGMA can be further developed into pre‐USM, post‐USM, and double‐USM types. Besides, two critical image characteristics, edge map and color histogram, are investigated to establish the relationship between image content and SGMA. The psychophysical experimental results show that double‐USM SGMA obtains better color matching than the other spatial types.
Organic light‐emitting devices integrated with internal scattering layers for enhancing optical out‐coupling
Authors: Chang Hong‐Wei , Tien Kun‐Cheng , Hsu Min‐Hung , Huang Yi‐Hsiang , Lin Ming‐Shiang , Tsai Chih‐Hung , Tsai Yu‐Tang , Wu Chung‐Chih
Published: February 2011

Abstract— In this work, studies on organic light‐emitting devices (OLEDs) incorporating nanoparticle‐based nanocomposite scattering layers as the internal extraction structures (i.e., between the substrate and the OLED structure) were concluded. By adjusting the nanoparticle sizes and concentrations, the optical properties (optical scattering and integrated transmittance) of the nanocomposite scattering layers can be widely tuned. With appropriate compositions, nanoparticle‐based nanocomposite scattering layers with strong optical scattering, high integrated transmittance, and yet enough flatness for device integration can be obtained. The use of such nanocomposite internal scattering layers provides a convenient and effective approach for simultaneously achieving large efficiency enhancement (1.96× for quantum efficiency and 2.04× for cd/A efficiency) and improving viewing characteristics (more stable colors and emission patterns over angles). The fabrication of nanoparticle‐based nanocomposite scattering films is based on solution‐processing, which is relatively simple and convenient. These features may make it highly attractive for various OLED applications and mass production.