bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Application of the Fuzzy ELECTRE Method for Academic Staff Selection
Authors: Rouyendegh Babak Daneshvar , Erkan Turan Erman
Published: April 2012

There are various methods regarding staff selection in different fields. Thanks to the increasing improvements in the field of education, universities around the world tend to demand high ‐quality and professional academic staff. Staff selection is a multi‐criteria decision‐making processes, and of strategic importance for most universities. This study deals with actual application of academic of staff selection using the opinion of experts to be applied into a model of group decision ‐ making called the Fuzzy ELECTRE (Elimination Et Choix Traduisant la REaite) method. There are ten qualitative criteria for selecting the best candidate amongst five prospective applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An Integrated Model of the Toyota Production System with Total Quality Management and People Factors
Authors: Yang Ching‐Chow , Yang King‐Jang
Published: April 2012

The Toyota production system (TPS), or lean production, has been associated with many benefits for manufacturing firms that implement the system. However, to implement the TPS successfully, it is necessary to integrate the so‐called “hard side” of the system (that is, the technical aspects of material handling) with the “soft side” of the program (that is, the aspects associated with human factors). The present study makes a contribution to such a holistic view of the TPS by proposing an integrated model that consists of the technical aspects of the TPS, together with elements associated with total quality management (TQM), human resources management (HRM), and certain identified “people factors.” The study then uses structural equation modeling (SEM) to test this holistic model using data obtained from a questionnaire survey of 153 Taiwanese manufacturing firms. The empirical study confirms the appropriateness of the causal model, which is evaluated by several goodness‐of‐fit methods. The study confirms the proposition that the inclusion of the “people factors” together with TQM and HRM significantly improves the realization of benefits associated with the TPS practices of “just‐in‐time” (JIT) and “autonomation.” The conclusion is that such an integrated model provides a much more effective “lean system” and has the potential to produce significantly enhanced benefits for firms that implement it. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spatial pattern separation in cognitively normal young and older adults
Authors: Holden Heather M. , Hoebel Calhuei , Loftis Kelly , Gilbert Paul E.
Published: April 2012

This study examined the ability of cognitively normal young adults (n = 30) and older adults (n = 30) to perform a delayed match‐to‐sample task involving varying degrees of spatial interference to assess spatial pattern separation. Each trial consisted of a sample phase followed by a choice phase. During the sample phase, a circle appeared briefly on a computer screen. The participant was instructed to remember the location of the circle on the screen. During the choice phase, two circles were displayed simultaneously, and the participant was asked to indicate which circle was in the same location as the sample phase circle. The two circles on choice phase trials were separated by one of four possible spatial separations: 0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 cm. Smaller separations are likely to create increased overlap among memory representations, which may result in heightened interference and a greater need for pattern separation. Consistent with this hypothesis, performance increased as a function of increased spatial separation in both young and older adults. However, young adults outperformed older adults, suggesting that spatial pattern separation may be less efficient in older adults due to potential age‐related changes in the dentate gyrus and CA3 hippocampal subregions. Older adults also were divided into older impaired and older unimpaired groups based on their performance on a standardized test of verbal memory. The older impaired group was significantly impaired relative to both the older unimpaired and young groups, suggesting that pattern separation deficits may be variable in older adults. The present findings may have important implications for designing behavioral interventions for older adults that structure daily living tasks to reduce interference, thus improving memory function. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Flood‐loss modelling for assessing impacts of flood‐frequency adjustment, Middle Mississippi River, USA
Authors: Pinter Nicholas , Dierauer Jennifer , Remo Jonathan W. F.
Published: April 2012

This study modelled flood losses (economic damages) along the Middle Mississippi River (MMR) (1) using current US government estimates of flow frequencies and (2) using frequencies based on the original, unaltered discharge measurements. The official flood frequencies were quantified in the Upper Mississippi River System Flow Frequency Study (UMRSFFS), but as a last step in that study, early discharges along the MMR were reduced by up to 54% to reflect a purported bias in early measurements. Subsequently, early discharge measurements were rigorously tested, and no such bias was found. Here, flood damages were quantified using a combination of one‐dimensional hydraulic modelling and flood‐loss modelling. For all recurrence intervals, damages were much less using the UMRSFFS flow frequencies compared with the frequencies based on the original discharge measurements, with differences ranging up to 79% (100‐year event) and $2.9bn (200‐year event). Annualized losses in the study area based on the UMRSFFS frequencies were just $41.6m versus $125.6m using the raw frequencies (an underestimation of 67%). These totals do not include flood losses elsewhere along the MMR, including in metropolitan St Louis. In summary, a seemingly small methodological adjustment – in this case, a single hidden adjustment, not documented anywhere within the UMRSFFS – can have dramatic societal impacts in terms of underestimation of flood probabilities and flood risk. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mice lacking epidermal PPARγ exhibit a marked augmentation in photocarcinogenesis associated with increased UVB‐induced apoptosis, inflammation and barrier dysfunction
Authors: Sahu Ravi P. , DaSilva Sonia C. , Rashid Badri , Martel Kellie Clay , Jernigan Danielle , Mehta Shama R. , Mohamed Deena R. , Rezania Samin , Bradish Joshua R. , Armstrong Andrew B. , Warren Simon , Konger Raymond L.
Published: April 2012

Recent studies suggest that peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) agonists may have cancer chemopreventive activity. Other studies have shown that loss of epidermal PPARγ results in enhanced chemical carcinogenesis in mice via unknown mechanisms. However, ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure represents the primary etiological agent for skin cancer formation and the role of PPARγ in photobiology and photocarcinogenesis is unknown. In previous studies, we demonstrated that UVB irradiation of cells results in the formation of oxidized glycerophosphocholines that exhibit PPARγ ligand activity. We therefore hypothesized that PPARγ would prove to be a chemopreventive target in photocarcinogenesis. We first showed that UVB irradiation of mouse skin causes generation of PPARγ agonist species in vivo. We then generated SKH‐1 hairless, albino mice deficient in epidermal Pparg (Pparg−/−epi) using a cytokeratin 14 driven Cre‐LoxP strategy. Using a chronic model of UVB photocarcinogenesis, we next showed that Pparg−/−epi mice exhibit an earlier onset of tumor formation, increased tumor burden and tumor progression. Increased tumor burden in Pparg−/−epi mice was accompanied by a significant increase in epidermal hyperplasia and p53 positive epidermal cells in surrounding skin lacking tumors. After acute UVB irradiation, Pparg−/−epi mice exhibited an augmentation of both UVB‐induced Caspase 3/7 activity and inflammation. Increased apoptosis and inflammation was also observed after treatment with the PPARγ antagonist GW9662. With chronic UVB irradiation, Pparg−/−epi mice exhibited a sustained increase in erythema and transepidermal water loss relative to wildtype littermates. This suggests that PPARγ agonists could have possible chemopreventive activity in non‐melanoma skin cancer.
Effectiveness of a simple rapid human papillomavirus DNA test in rural Nigeria
Authors: Gage Julia C. , Ajenifuja Kayode O. , Wentzensen Nicolas , Adepiti Akinfolarin C. , Stoler Mark , Eder Paul S. , Bell Laura , Shrestha Niwashin , Eklund Claire , Reilly Mary , Hutchinson Martha , Wacholder Sholom , Castle Philip E. , Burk Robert D. , Schiffman Mark
Published: April 2012

Success of the new human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA test for low‐resource settings (careHPV™ test; QIAGEN Gaithersburg Inc., Gaithersburg, MD) requires good test performance when operated by personnel with limited laboratory experience. We evaluated the transferability, reliability, and accuracy of the careHPV test nested within a cervical screening project in a large Nigerian village. CareHPV testing was performed on screen‐positive (n = 345) and screen‐negative (n = 42) women attending colposcopy (68.3% of referred). Biopsies of abnormal‐appearing areas were processed and read in the U.S. CareHPV specimens taken immediately before colposcopy were processed up to four times (in the field) by two secondary school graduates without laboratory experience, trained for this study. Specifically, QIAGEN Gaithersburg trained a laboratory‐inexperienced U.S. researcher, who trained the first local technician who, in turn, trained the second. Residual specimens were sent to the U.S. for MY09/MY11 PCR testing for 13 carcinogenic genotypes (HPV16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 68) plus HPV66 (included in careHPV). Intrarater agreement was 98.8% (κ = 0.97) and 98.9% (κ = 0.97) for Technicians 1 and 2, respectively, while inter‐rater agreement was 96.3% (κ = 0.90). Agreement with MY09/MY11 PCR (virologic reference standard) was 89.3% (κ = 0.73) with 74.2% sensitivity and 95.7% specificity. The careHPV test detected 12 (80%) of 15 histologically confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia Grade 2 (CIN2) or worse lesions, with an estimated 83.0% specificity to detect <CIN2. In a challenging low‐resource setting with minimal intervention, the careHPV test performed adequately with high specificity but possibly lower sensitivity than HPV DNA tests currently used in controlled situations.
Fruit and vegetable intake and the risk of gastric adenocarcinoma: A reanalysis of the european prospective investigation into cancer and nutrition (EPIC‐EURGAST) study after a longer follow‐up
Authors: Gonzalez Carlos A. , Lujan‐Barroso Leila , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita H. B(as). , Jenab Mazda , Duell Eric J. , Agudo Antonio , Tjønneland Anne , Boutron‐Ruault Marie Christine , Clavel‐Chapelon Françoise , Touillaud Marina , Teucher Birgit , Kaaks Rudolf , Boeing Heiner , Steffen Annika , Trichopoulou Antonia , Roukos Dimitrios , Karapetyan Tina , Palli Domenico , Tagliabue Giovanna , Mattiello Amalia , Tumino Rosario , Ricceri Fulvio , Siersema Peter D. , Numans Mattijs E. , Peeters Petra P.H. , Parr Christine L. , Skeie Guri , Lund Eiliv , Quirós J. Ramón , Sánchez‐Cantalejo Emilio , Navarro Carmen , Barricarte Aurelio , Dorronsoro Miren , Ehrnström Roy , Regner Sara , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Wareham Nick , Key Timothy J. , Crowe Francesca L. , Blaker Hendrik , Romieu Isabelle , Riboli Elio
Published: April 2012

In a previous European prospective investigation into cancer and nutrition (EPIC) analysis, we found an inverse association between total intake of vegetables, onion and garlic, and risk of intestinal gastric cancer (GC) and between citrus fruit and risk of cardia GC. The aim of this study is to reanalyze the effect of fruit and vegetables (F&V), based on a longer follow‐up and twice the number of GC cases. Subjects are 477,312 men and women mostly aged 35 to 70 years participating in the EPIC cohort, including 683 gastric adenocarcinomas with 11 years of follow‐up. Information on diet and lifestyle was collected at baseline. A calibration study in a subsample was used to correct for dietary measurement errors. When comparing the highest vs. lowest quintile of intake, we found an inverse association between total intake of V&F and GC risk [hazard ratio (HR) 0.77; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57–1.04; p for trend 0.02], between fresh fruit and risk of the diffuse type (HR 0.59; 95% CI 0.36–0.97; p for trend 0.03) and an inverse association between citrus fruit and risk of cardia cancer (HR 0.61; 95% CI 0.38–1.00, p for trend 0.01). Although calibration revealed somewhat stronger inverse associations, none of the risks reached statistical significance. There was no association between total or specific vegetables intake and GC risk. The inverse association between fresh fruit and citrus fruits and risk of GC seems to be restricted to smokers and the Northern European countries. Fresh fruit and citrus fruit consumption may protect against diffuse and cardia GC, respectively.
PRICING AND HEDGING SHORT STERLING OPTIONS USING NEURAL NETWORKS
Authors: Chen Fei , Sutcliffe Charles
Published: April 2012

This paper compares the performance of artificial neural networks (ANNs) with that of the modified Black model in both pricing and hedging short sterling options. Using high‐frequency data, standard and hybrid ANNs are trained to generate option prices. The hybrid ANN is significantly superior to both the modified Black model and the standard ANN in pricing call and put options. Hedge ratios for hedging short sterling options positions using short sterling futures are produced using the standard and hybrid ANN pricing models, the modified Black model, and also standard and hybrid ANNs trained directly on the hedge ratios. The performance of hedge ratios from ANNs directly trained on actual hedge ratios is significantly superior to those based on a pricing model, and to the modified Black model. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface plasmon resonance based biosensor technique: A review
Authors: Guo Xiaowei
Published: April 2012

Optical Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensors represent the most advanced and developed optical label‐free biosensor technology. Optical SPR biosensors are a powerful detection and analysis tool that has vast applications in environmental protection, biotechnology, medical diagnostics, drug screening, food safety and security. This article reviews the recent development of SPR biosensor techniques, including bulk SPR and localized SPR (LSPR) biosensors, for detecting interactions between an analyte of interest in solution and a biomolecular recognition. The concepts of bulk and localized SPs and the working principles of both sensing techniques are introduced. Major sensing advances on biorecognition elements, measurement formats, and sensing platforms are presented. Finally, the discussions on both biosensor techniques as well as comparison of both SPR sensing techniques are made. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Type 1 inositol‐1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptor is a late substrate of caspases during apoptosis
Authors: Elkoreh Ghadi , Blais Véronique , Béliveau Éric , Guillemette Gaétan , Denault Jean‐Bernard
Published: April 2012

Apoptosis is characterized by the proteolytic cleavage of hundreds of proteins. One of them, the type 1 inositol‐1,4,5‐trisphosphate receptor (IP3R‐1), a multimeric receptor located on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane that is critical to calcium homeostasis, was reported to be cleaved during staurosporine (STS) induced‐apoptosis in Jurkat cells. Because the reported cleavage site separates the IP3 binding site from the channel moiety, its cleavage would shut down a critical signaling pathway that is common to several cellular processes. Here we show that IP3R‐1 is not cleaved in 293 cells treated with STS, TNFα, Trail, or ultra‐violet (UV) irradiation. Further, it is not cleaved in Hela or Jurkat cells induced to undergo apoptosis with Trail, TNFα, or UV. In accordance with previous reports, we demonstrate that it is cleaved in a Jurkat cell line treated with STS. However its cleavage occurs only after poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP), which cleavage is a hallmark of apoptosis, and p23, a poor caspase‐7 substrate, are completely cleaved, suggesting that IP3R‐1 is a relatively late substrate of caspases. Nevertheless, the receptor is fully accessible to proteolysis in cellulo by ectopically overexpressed caspase‐7 or by the tobacco etch virus (TEV) protease. Finally, using recombinant caspase‐3 and microsomal fractions enriched in IP3R‐1, we show that the receptor is a poor caspase‐3 substrate. Consequently, we conclude that IP3R‐1 is not a key death substrate. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 2775–2784, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Norisoboldine inhibits the production of interleukin‐6 in fibroblast‐like synoviocytes from adjuvant arthritis rats through PKC/MAPK/NF‐κB‐p65/CREB pathways
Authors: Wei Zhifeng , Wang Fengyun , Song Jie , Lu Qian , Zhao Peng , Xia Yufeng , Chou Guixin , Wang Zhengtao , Dai Yue
Published: April 2012

Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) is a pleiotropic cytokine secreted by macrophages and others and it has been proven to be a potential therapeutic target of RA. Norisoboldine (NOR) is the main isoquinoline alkaloid constituent in the dry roots of Lindera aggregata (Sims) Kosterm. (L. strychnifolia Vill.), which has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating RA and other diseases. Our previous studies indicated that NOR was able to attenuate inflammation and joint destruction in collagen II‐induced arthritis of mice. To further recognize the anti‐rheumatoid potentials of NOR, the present study addressed whether and how NOR interfered with IL‐6 production from fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS), key effector cells in the development and progression of RA. FLS, obtained from the synovial tissues of rats with adjuvant arthritis, showed incremental release of IL‐6 after stimulated with IL‐1β in vitro. NOR (10, 30, and 60 µM) could reduce the production of IL‐6 in a concentration‐dependent manner. It also down‐regulated the phosphorylations of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs), protein kinase C (PKC), and transcriptional factor nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB)‐p65 (ser 276) as well as cAMP response element‐binding protein (CREB) in FLS. By using specific inhibitors, PKC was shown to be the upstream protein of MAPKs, and p38 MAPK was at the upstream of CREB. It was concluded that preventing IL‐6 release from FLS might be an important mechanism for NOR displaying anti‐RA property, and the action of NOR was relative to inhibition of PKC/MAPKs/p65/CREB pathways. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 2785–2795, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Factor Structure of Self‐Reported Clinical Disorders and Personality Disorders: A Review of the Existing Literature and a Factor Analytical Study
Authors: Bachrach Nathan , Croon Marcel A. , Bekker Marrie H. J.
Published: April 2012

Objectives

The aim of this research is to add to the current understanding of the latent factor structure of personality disorders by performing a review of the existing literature (Study 1) and a factor analytical study on the factor structure and the relationship between self‐reported Axis I and Axis II psychopathology (Study 2).

Design

The current research (Study 2) is cross‐sectional and multicenter.

Results

We found support for the assumption that the borderline personality disorder is a multidimensional construct. Second, we found evidence for a single‐factor structure of the narcissistic, dependent as well as the avoidant personality disorder. Third, we found support for the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM‐IV) distinction between Axis I and Axis II, Axis I psychopathology being explained by the factor neuroticism and Axis II disorders to be further subdivided into the higher order factors of internalizing and externalizing pathology.

Conclusions

An adaptation to the current DSM‐IV borderline personality criteria should be made, while various findings show that the borderline construct is multidimensional. Second, deletion of the dependent and narcissistic personality in the DSM‐V might be unjust. Third, Axis I psychopathology can be explained by the factor neuroticism, and Axis II disorders should be further subdivided into the higher order factors of internalizing and externalizing pathology.
Psychotherapy for Social Anxiety Disorder: Long‐Term Effectiveness of Resource‐Oriented Cognitive‐Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Therapy in Social Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Willutzki Ulrike , Teismann Tobias , Schulte Dietmar
Published: April 2012

Objective

Resource‐oriented cognitive‐behavioral therapy (ROCBT) and cognitive therapy (CT) have been shown to be effective treatments for social anxiety disorder. However, so far few studies have examined the long‐term effectiveness of these treatments. Thus, there is little information available about the durability of change in treated patients with social anxiety disorder.

Design

This study examined the effectiveness of both treatments at 2‐year and 10‐year follow‐up assessments. Patients who received ROCBT or CT were re‐contacted after 2 (n = 51), and 10 years (n = 27), respectively, and completed a battery of self‐report questionnaires.

Results

Treatment gains were maintained over the 2‐year follow‐up on all measures. Furthermore, there was a significant improvement on 2 social anxiety measures between posttreatment and the 10‐year follow‐up. ROCBT and CT did not differ in overall effectiveness.

Conclusion

The results suggest that both treatments are effective and durable approaches in the treatment of social anxiety disorder.
Efficient acetoin production by optimization of medium components and oxygen supply control using a newly isolated Paenibacillus polymyxa CS107
Authors: Zhang Liaoyuan , Chen Shuang , Xie Haibo , Tian Yuting , Hu Kaihui
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Acetoin is a natural flavor commonly used in wine, buffer, honey, garnet berry and strawberry as a food additive. It also has been widely applied in cosmetics, pharmacy and chemical synthesis. Culture medium optimization and process control were carried out for efficient production of acetoin by a newly isoliated P. polymyxa CS107.

RESULTS: An acetoin high producing strain, designated as CS107, was newly isolated and identified as P. polymyxa based on its physiological and biochemical characteristics as well as the 16S rDNA sequence. The medium composition was optimized in shake flask fermentations by a sequential statistical experimental design. Under the optimized conditions, acetoin concentration of 30.98 g L−1 was achieved with 71.83% of theoretical glucose conversion efficiency. Fed‐batch fermentation based on a suitable agitation speed was carried out in a 5 L jar, the maximum acetoin concentration of 55.3 g L−1 was obtained with the productivity of 1.32 g L−1 h−1 and the yield of 75.62%.

CONCLUSION: A new strain for efficient production of acetoin, designated as P. polymyxa CS107, was obtained. The optimization of fermentation variables and fed‐batch culture resulted in a maximum acetoin concentration of 55.3 g L−1 in 5 L jar. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Organosolv lignin depolymerization with different base catalysts
Authors: Toledano Ana , Serrano Luis , Labidi Jalel
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Revalorization of lignin is one of the key economical requirements for the development of cost‐effective biorefinery processes. The lignin polyphenolic structure is ideally suited to transformation catalytically into lower molecular weight compounds such as phenols, aromatic acids, esters, ethers, etc., replacing those obtained from petroleum.

RESULTS: Lignin was subjected to base catalyzed depolymerization paying attention to the base effect on the oil yield and composition. The oil yields and compositions varied (5–20%) strongly depending on the base used, suggesting that the reactions took place via different mechanisms. As a result, the monomeric compounds obtained were different (catechol, cresols, syringol, guaiacol). Residual lignin contents were high for most of the experiments (up to 45%), and repolymerization reactions were proved to be one of the main reasons for this behavior.

CONCLUSION: The results showed that lignin depolymerization produced phenolic compounds that can be introduced into existing petrochemical industries. The base selection will govern the nature of the products obtained. Repolymerization was proved to take place and to be the reason for the limitation on oil production. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Regulation of α‐synuclein expression in down syndrome
Authors: Ramakrishna Narayan , Meeker Harry C. , Patel Satyam , Brown Ted W. , El Idrissi Abdeslem
Published: April 2012

The triplication of genes located on chromosome 21 is known to cause a wide spectrum of pathology seen in Down syndrome (DS), including leukemia, seizures, stroke, and mental retardation. Studies on RNA and protein expression of genes in DS brain have demonstrated the role of triplicated genes in several DS phenotypes. Significant changes in the expression of nontriplicated genes have also been observed. However, little information is available regarding the role of nonchromosome 21 genes in DS pathology. We have found that α‐synuclein (SNCA), a presynaptic protein whose gene is located on chromosome 6 in the Ts65Dn mouse model for DS, is significantly reduced in the cortex and other brain regions. We hypothesize that this alteration may play a critical role in the reduced synaptic function observed in DS. We have found an increase in the level of neurosin, a key negative regulator of SNCA in Ts65Dn cortex. We have also found increased levels of protein phosphatase 2A, a negative regulator of the activation of tyrosine hydroxylase and a key enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway for dopamine in Ts65Dn cortex. These findings reveal potential target sites for intervention in the treatment of DS pathology. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mid‐century effects of Climate Change on African monsoon dynamics using the A1B emission scenario
Authors: Monerie Paul‐Arthur , Roucou Pascal , Fontaine Bernard
Published: April 2012

Future climate changes in African regions are model‐dependent and there is no consensus regarding Sahelian rainfall by the end of this century. Using 12 atmosphere‐ocean global climate models of the third Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP3) we propose a multi‐model (MM) analysis contrasting the 1960–1999 period (20c3m integration) and the 2031–2070 period (A1B emission scenario). The analyses are based on MM response but also on the ‘one model‐one vote’ concept to give the same weight to each model. The results show robust signals in the rainfall response, i.e., increasing (decreasing) amounts in central (western) Sahel associated with specific changes in atmospheric dynamics. The rainfall excesses expected in central Sahel are mainly linked to an enhancement of the northern Hadley‐type cell and probably to its northward shift. At low‐levels increasing temperature and evaporation strengthen the monsoon flux. Rainfall deficits predicted westward are due to a reinforcement of the African Easterly Jet and to anomalies in the zonal circulation between the Indian and the Atlantic Oceans, favouring air subsidence and moisture export outside the region. The weakening of the meridional circulation is also able to prevent rainfall amounts in the western part of the Sahel. More generally, these analyses show that in future works the Sahel region must not be considered as one consistent region but as two separate areas, both sides of the Greenwich meridian. The authors propose to consider this feature in the next Fifth Assessment cycle (AR5) in order to better understand the impacts of the climate change on West Africa. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Performance of a high resolution global model over southern South America
Authors: Blázquez Josefina , Nuñez Mario N.
Published: April 2012

This paper evaluates a present climate simulation over southern South America performed with the Meteorological Research Institute/Japanese Meteorological Agency (MRI/JMA) high resolution global model. Main patterns of low and upper‐level atmospheric circulation were analysed in a 25‐year simulation as well as climate means, interannual variability, trends and bias of temperature and precipitation. The model is able to reproduce the main atmospheric circulation patterns and mean surface variables, although some deficiencies were found such as an overestimation of temperature over central Argentina in most of seasons, an overestimation of austral winter precipitation over northeastern and central Argentina, an underestimation of precipitation in all the seasons over southeast of Brazil, an underestimation of the amplitude of the annual cycle temperature in some regions and an overestimation of the amplitude of the annual cycle of precipitation over mountainous areas. Model interannual variability was also assessed. In general, temperature variability is overestimated, whereas precipitation is underestimated. The spatial structure of the year‐to‐year variability of precipitation is correctly simulated by the model, although some patterns were misplaced. Most of regions present a cold seasonal bias reaching values of − 2 °C in some regions. It was found that precipitation biases are between 3 and − 1 mm day−1. In some regions and seasons observed and simulated temperature trends coincide, as in austral summer or spring, where the model and the observations show positive trends in most of regions. However, there is no agreement between observed and simulated precipitation trends in almost all the regions and seasons. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Recent ground surface warming and its effects on permafrost on the central Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau
Authors: Wu Tonghua , Zhao Lin , Li Ren , Wang Qinxue , Xie Changwei , Pang Qiangqiang
Published: April 2012

In this study, the ground surface temperature (GST) records from 16 meteorological stations, which are located in or adjacent to permafrost regions on the central Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau (QTP), are analysed using Mann–Kendal test and Sen's slope estimate methods. We revealed that the GSTs have shown statistically significant warming. On average, mean annual ground surface temperature has increased at a rate of 0.60 °C decade−1 over the period of 1980–2007, which is more pronounced than the increase of mean annual air temperature on the plateau. The winter ground surface warming is especially prominent, which is similar to the seasonal trends in changes of air temperature. As important parameters to assess the changes of ground thermal regime in cold regions, surface freezing and thawing indices were also studied. The nonparametric statistic test and estimate indicate that surface freezing and thawing indices both show significant variations (−111.2 and 125.0 °C d decade−1, respectively) on the central QTP. The intensive ground surface warming is responsible for the concurrent increase in permafrost temperatures at the long‐term observation sites on the plateau. The close correlations between ground surface and permafrost temperatures indicate that the dramatic ground surface warming could have significant influence on the change of permafrost thermal regime in the study region. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Azospirillum improves lettuce growth and transplant under saline conditions
Authors: Fasciglione Gabriela , Casanovas Elda M , Yommi Alejandra , Sueldo Rolando J , Barassi Carlos A
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Recent studies have shown that as a plant‐growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), Azospirillum inoculation could contribute to the mitigation of the negative effects caused by salt on lettuce growth. Moreover, the use of PGPR to alleviate the effects of transplant in vegetables has also been recognized. However, the scarce data available on the use of Azospirillum to improve lettuce growth before and after transplant under saline conditions prompted us to focus our research on this topic.

RESULTS: Early germination and seedling settlement of seeds exposed to 0 and 40 mol m−3 NaCl were clearly improved by Azospirillum inoculation. At 0 mol m−3 NaCl, plant establishment, leaf mass and root mass parameters before transplant were significantly higher in inoculated plants than in non‐inoculated controls. At harvest, leaf fresh weight, ascorbic acid content and plant survival to transplant were also significantly higher in Azospirillum‐inoculated plants grown at 0 mol m−3 NaCl. In addition to these effects, leaf dry weight, area and chlorophyll content were also increased by Azospirillum inoculation when plants were grown at 40 mol m−3 NaCl.

CONCLUSION: Azospirillum‐inoculated lettuce seeds yield a higher number of transplanted plants with superior quality than non‐inoculated controls grown at 0 or at 40 mol m−3 NaCl. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of patients with esophageal carcinoma invading adjacent structures found during esophagectomy
Authors: Kosugi Shin‐ichi , Ichikawa Hiroshi , Kanda Tatsuo , Yajima Kazuhito , Ishikawa Takashi , Hatakeyama Katsuyoshi
Published: April 2012

Objectives

A treatment strategy for patients with esophageal carcinoma invading adjacent structures found during esophagectomy (surgical T4; sT4) has not been established and the role of esophagectomy remains controversial. The aims of this study were to assess the clinicopathological characteristics and to clarify the prognostic factors of patients who underwent esophagectomy for sT4 tumors.

Methods

A consecutive series of 76 patients who were found to have sT4 tumors was reviewed retrospectively. T4 tumors were divided into two groups according to the invaded structures. Cox's multivariate proportional hazard model was used to identify prognostic factors.

Results

Complete tumor clearance with combined resection was performed in 12 patients (16%). Overall 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year survival rates were 40.8%, 9.2%, and 7.9%, respectively. There was no significant relationship between survival and invaded structure type or residual tumor status. Postoperative therapy was selected as an independent prognostic factor.

Conclusions

The complete resection rate was low and the prognosis of patients with sT4 tumors was poor. Subclassification according to the invaded structures was not a prognostic factor in this study. Postoperative therapy may improve survival in sT4 patients and should be considered irrespective of residual tumor status after esophagectomy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:767–772. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Duty‐related trauma exposure in 911 telecommunicators: Considering the risk for posttraumatic stress
Authors: Pierce Heather , Lilly Michelle M.
Published: April 2012

Peritraumatic distress may increase the risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in police officers. Much less is known about emotional reactions and PTSD symptomatology in 911 telecommunicators. The current study assessed duty‐related exposure to potentially traumatic calls, peritraumatic distress, and PTSD symptomatology in a cross‐sectional, convenience sample of 171 telecommunicators. Results showed that telecommunicators reported high levels of peritraumatic distress and a moderate, positive relationship was found between peritraumatic distress and PTSD symptom severity (r = .34). The results suggest that 911 telecommunicators are exposed to duty‐related trauma that may lead to the development of PTSD, and that direct, physical exposure to trauma may not be necessary to increase risk for PTSD in this population.
CHANGES IN SOIL ORGANIC CARBON UNDER EUCALYPTUS PLANTATIONS IN BRAZIL: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
Authors: Fialho R. C. , Zinn Y. L.
Published: April 2012

Proper assessment of environmental quality or degradation requires knowledge of how terrestrial C pools respond to land use change. Forest plantations offer a considerable potential to sequester C in aboveground biomass. However, their impact on initial levels of soil organic carbon (SOC) varies from strong losses to gains, possibly affecting C balances in afforestation or reforestation initiatives. We compiled paired‐plot studies on how SOC stocks under native vegetation change after planting fast‐growth Eucalyptus species in Brazil, where these plantations are becoming increasingly important. SOC changes for the 0–20 and 0–40 cm depths varied between −25 and 42 Mg ha−1, following a normal distribution centered near zero. After replacing native vegetation by Eucalyptus plantations, mean SOC changes were −1·5 and 0·3 Mg ha−1 for the 0–20 and 0–40 cm depths, respectively. These are very low figures in comparison to C stocks usually sequestered in aboveground biomass and were statistically nonsignificant as demonstrated by a t‐test at p < 0·05. Similar low, nonsignificant SOC changes were estimated after data were stratified into first or second rotation cycles, soil texture and biome (savanna, rainforest or grassland). Although strong SOC losses or gains effectively occurred in some cases, their underpinning causes could not be generally identified in the present work and must be ascribed in a case basis, considering the full set of environmental and management conditions. We conclude that Eucalyptus spp. plantations in average have no net effect on SOC stocks in Brazil. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous reconstruction of head and neck defects following tumor resection and trismus release with a single anterolateral thigh donor site utilizing a lateral approach to flap harvest
Authors: Lin Pao‐Yuan , Chen Chien‐Chung , Kuo Yur‐Ren , Jeng Seng‐Feng
Published: April 2012

Background: An anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap has gradually become the workhorse flap of reconstructions at different anatomical locations because of its reliability and versatility. In this study, we introduced the concepts: one is the ALT flap harvest from a lateral approach and the other is the reconstruction of extensive head and neck defects with a single ALT donor site. Methods: A lateral approach ALT flap was harvested in 13 patients who had buccal cancer and/or tumors of the lower lip combined with buccal trismus. Three types of ALT flaps (type I: two skin paddles, one pedicle; type II: two skin paddles, two pedicles; type III: one skin paddle, one pedicle) were used in one‐stage reconstructions of these extensive head and neck defects. Results: In our series, there were four type I, five type II, and four type III flaps. All flaps survived and no major postoperative complication occurred. Four of the 13 donor sites were repaired with a split‐thickness skin graft harvested from the contralateral thigh. The immediate interincisor distance increase was 21.4 and 16.5 mm at 1‐year follow‐up. Conclusions: Different types of ALT flap from a single donor site can be designed by means of a lateral approach; and the satisfactory results of reconstruction for extensive head and neck defects following the tumor resection and trismus release can be achieved. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
Functional fibrinogen to platelet ratio using thromboelastography as a predictive parameter for thrombotic complications following free tissue transfer surgery: A preliminary study
Authors: Parker Rachel J. , Eley Karen A. , Von Kier Stephen , Pearson Oliver , Watt‐Smith Stephen R.
Published: April 2012

Background: Microvascular free tissue transfer in head and neck surgery has become an indispensable tool. Anastomotic thrombosis is one of the leading causes of flap failure; however, there are no validated methods to accurately identify and quantify those patients most at risk of thrombotic complications. The aim of this study was to determine if functional fibrinogen to platelet ratio using thrombelastography could preoperatively identify patients at risk of thrombotic complications. Materials and Methods: Twenty nine patients undergoing free tissue transfer surgery for head and neck pathology underwent routine TEG® analysis, with calculation of functional fibrinogen to platelet ratio at induction of anesthesia. All perioperative thrombotic complications were recorded and crossreferenced with preoperative ratios. Data was further compared to results obtained from 42 healthy volunteers. Results: The mean functional fibrinogen to platelet ratio was significantly higher in the surgery group compared to healthy volunteers. Of the 29 patients studied, 31% (n = 9) had some form of thrombotic event, with all but one patient having a ratio ≥42% (mean 47% ± 7%). For those patients without thrombotic events, the mean ratio was 37% ± 5%. Conclusion: A functional fibrinogen to platelet ratio above 42% as measured by TEG® may be useful in identifying those patients likely to develop thrombotic complication. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
Predicting perforator location on preoperative imaging for the profunda artery perforator flap
Authors: Haddock Nicholas T. , Greaney Patrick , Otterburn David , Levine Steve , Allen Robert J.
Published: April 2012

Introduction: The profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap is a new addition to our reconstructive armamentarium. In effort to better understand patient candidacy for the PAP flap we characterized the profunda artery perforators on preoperative imaging. Methods: A retrospective review was completed of 40 preoperative posterior thigh computed tomography angiographies and magnetic resonance angiographies by four plastic surgeons. The positioning of the patient, type of study, number of perforators, and size of perforators were documented. The location was documented on an x–y‐axis. Perforator course and surrounding musculature was documented. Results: In 98.8% of posterior thighs suitable profunda artery perforators were identified. The average number and size of perforators was 3.3 and 1.9 mm. The most common perforator was medial (present in 85.6% of thighs); found near the adductor magnus at 3.8 cm from midline and 5.0 cm below the gluteal fold. The second most common perforator was lateral (present in 65.4% of thighs); found near the biceps femoris and vastus lateralis at 12.0 cm from midline and 5.0 cm below the gluteal fold. Nearly 48.3% were purely septocutaneous. And 51.7% had an intramuscular course (average length 5.7 cm). Preoperative imaging corresponded to suitable perforators at the time of dissection of all PAP flaps. Thirty five PAP flaps (18 patients) were performed with 100% flap survival. Conclusion: Analysis of preoperative posterior thigh imaging confirms our intraoperative findings that a considerable number of suitable posterior thigh profunda perforators are present, emerge from the fascia in a common pattern, and are of sufficient caliber to provide adequate flap perfusion and recipient vessel size match. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
Treatment of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia with vascularized fibular periosteal transplant
Authors: Soldado Francisco , Fontecha Cesar Garcia , Haddad Sleiman , Hernandez‐Fernandez A. , Corona Pablo , Guerra‐Farfan Ernesto
Published: April 2012

The vascularized fibular periosteal flap has been recently described and showed solid angio and osteogenic features. We report the use of a free vascularized fibular periosteal transplant in the treatment of a El‐Rosasy‐Paley Type III congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia in a 7‐year‐old boy, with a prior unsuccessful surgery at the age of three. The contralateral fibular periosteum was used to replace two‐thirds of the hamartomatous tibial periosteum. We did not proceed to debriding the focus of the pseudarthrosis nor addressed the tibial recurvatum or revised the previous tibial rod. Consolidation was achieved radiologically at 3 months, allowing for the tibial rod to be removed. One year postoperatively, the patient ambulated without the use of a protective orthesis and resumed his sports practice. This novel pathogenesis‐based technique showed promising results and a prompt healing of such a difficult orthopedic condition. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
On consideration of radiated power in RF field simulations for MRI
Authors: Liu Wanzhan , Kao Chien‐ping , Collins Christopher M. , Smith Michael B. , Yang Qing X.
Published: April 2012

In numerical analyses of radiofrequency (RF) fields for MRI, RF power is often permitted to radiate out of the problem region. In reality, RF power will be confined by the magnet bore and RF screen enclosing the magnet room. We present numerical calculations at different frequencies for various surface and volume coils, with samples from simple spheres to the human body in environments from free space to a shielded RF room. Results for calculations within a limited problem region show radiated power increases with frequency. When the magnet room RF screen is included, nearly all the power is dissipated in the human subject. For limited problem regions, inclusion of a term for radiation loss results in an underestimation of transmit efficiency compared to results including the complete bore and RF screen. If the term for radiated power is not included, calculated coil efficiencies are slightly overestimated compared to the complete case. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dynamic monitoring of carnitine and acetylcarnitine in the trimethylamine signal after exercise in human skeletal muscle by 7T 1H‐MRS
Authors: Ren Jimin , Lakoski Susan , Haller Ronald G. , Sherry A. Dean , Malloy Craig R.
Published: April 2012

A trimethylamine (TMA) moiety is present in carnitine and acetylcarnitine, and both molecules play critical roles in muscle metabolism. At 7 T, the chemical shift dispersion was sufficient to routinely resolve the TMA signals from carnitine at 3.20 and from acetylcarnitine at 3.17 ppm in the 1H‐MRS (Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy) of human soleus muscle with a temporal resolution of about 2 min. In healthy, sedentary adults, the concentration of acetylcarnitine increased nearly 10‐fold, to 4.1 ± 1.0 mmol/kg, in soleus muscle after 5 min of calf‐raise exercise and recovered to a baseline concentration of 0.5 ± 0.3 mmol/kg. While the half‐time for decay of acetylcarnitine was the same whether measured from the TMA signal (18.8 ± 5.6 min) or measured from the methyl signal (19.4 ± 6.1 min), the detection of acetylcarnitine by its TMA signal in soleus has the advantage of higher sensitivity and without overlapping from lipid signals. Although the activity of carnitine acetyltransferase is sufficient to allow equilibrium between carnitine and coenzyme‐A pools, the exchange in TMA signal between carnitine and acetylcarnitine is slow in soleus following exercise on 7T 1H‐NMR time scale. The TMA signal provides a simple and direct measure of the relative amounts of carnitine and acetylcarnitine. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fast gated EPR imaging of the beating heart: Spatiotemporally resolved 3D imaging of free‐radical distribution during the cardiac cycle
Authors: Chen Zhiyu , Reyes Levy A. , Johnson David H. , Velayutham Murugesan , Yang Changjun , Samouilov Alexandre , Zweier Jay L.
Published: April 2012

In vivo or ex vivo electron paramagnetic resonance imaging (EPRI) is a powerful technique for determining the spatial distribution of free radicals and other paramagnetic species in living organs and tissues. However, applications of EPRI have been limited by long projection acquisition times and the consequent fact that rapid gated EPRI was not possible. Hence in vivo EPRI typically provided only time‐averaged information. In order to achieve direct gated EPRI, a fast EPR acquisition scheme was developed to decrease EPR projection acquisition time down to 10–20 ms, along with corresponding software and instrumentation to achieve fast gated EPRI of the isolated beating heart with submillimeter spatial resolution in as little as 2–3 min. Reconstructed images display temporal and spatial variations of the free‐radical distribution, anatomical structure, and contractile function within the rat heart during the cardiac cycle. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.