bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Swelling properties of pH‐responsive hydrophobically modified hydrogels of poly(methacrylic acid‐co‐diallylammonium salt) in aqueous solution
Authors: Gao Dang‐Ge , Ma Jian‐Zhong , Guo Hai‐Qing
Published: November 2011

Using diallylmethyl alkyl ammonium salts (CCX) (X is alkyl's chain length, represents 12, 14, 16, and 18, respectively) as a comonomer of methacrylic (MAA), hydrophobically modified hydrogels of poly diallylmethyl alkyl ammonium salts‐methacrylic acid (PCCX‐MAA) were prepared by free radical copolymerization in aqueous solution. The synthetic conditions, such as dosage of cross‐linking agent, reaction concentration and length of alkyl chain were studied in detail. Results indicated that the swelling degree of hydrogels was decreased with dosage of cross‐linking agent, or monomer concentration increased at different pH. Incorporation of the different length of alkyl chain hydrophobic CCX units on PMAA chains by random distribution can change reswelling kinetics. The required time for reaching equilibrium swelling state was longest for PCC16‐MAA. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of an alternative low energy fold for bovine α‐lactalbumin formed by disulfide bond shuffling
Authors: Lewney Sarah , Smith Lorna J.
Published: November 2011

Bovine α‐lactalbumin (αLA) forms a misfolded disulfide bond shuffled isomer, X‐αLA. This X‐αLA isomer contains two native disulfide bridges (Cys 6–Cys 120 and Cys 28–Cys 111) and two non‐native disulfide bridges (Cys 61–Cys 73 and Cys 77–Cys 91). MD simulations have been used to characterize the X‐αLA isomer and its formation via disulfide bond shuffling and to compare it with the native fold of αLA. In the simulations of the X‐αLA isomer the structure of the α‐domain of native αLA is largely retained in agreement with experimental data. However, there are significant rearrangements in the β‐domain, including the loss of the native β‐sheet and calcium binding site. Interestingly, the energies of X‐αLA and native αLA in simulations in the absence of calcium are closely similar. Thus, the X‐αLA isomer represents a different low energy fold for the protein. Calcium binding to native αLA is shown to help preserve the structure of the β‐domain of the protein limiting possibilities for disulfide bond shuffling. Hence, binding calcium plays an important role in both maintaining the native structure of αLA and providing a mechanism for distinguishing between folded and misfolded species. Proteins 2011. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
First‐trimester diagnosis of cleft lip and palate using three‐dimensional ultrasound
Authors: Martinez‐Ten P. , Adiego B. , Illescas T. , Bermejo C. , Wong A. E. , Sepulveda W.
Published: November 2011

Objective

To determine whether systematic examination of primary and secondary palates using three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound aids in the identification of orofacial clefts in the first trimester.

Methods

3D datasets were acquired prospectively from women undergoing first‐trimester ultrasound screening for aneuploidy. Multiplanar mode display was used for offline analysis of (1) the primary palate in the coronal plane at the base of the retronasal triangle and (2) the secondary palate by virtual navigation in the axial plane. In addition, 3D datasets from three fetuses with a cleft palate diagnosed in the first trimester were retrospectively identified and included randomly in the study group.

Results

A total of 240 3D datasets from 237 pregnancies (including three sets of twins), 89% of which were obtained transabdominally and 11% transvaginally, were examined independently by three operators. The quality of the 3D datasets was classified subjectively as good, fair and poor in 76%, 20% and 4% of cases, respectively. Seven fetuses had an orofacial cleft; all involved both the primary palate and the secondary palate. Using 3D offline analysis, the primary palate was classified as intact in 229 (95%), cleft in nine (4%) and indeterminate in two (1%). Seven of the nine fetuses suspected to have a cleft affecting the primary palate had the cleft confirmed at birth or at postmortem examination (false‐positive rate 0.9% (2/231)). The secondary palate was classified as intact in 217 (90%), cleft in six (3%) and indeterminate in 17 (7%). Clefts of the secondary palate were confirmed in all six suspected cases and missed in one, which was diagnosed at 16 weeks. The visualization rate was affected by the quality of the 3D dataset (P < 0.001) and gestational age at evaluation (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

In our series, all cases of clefting of the primary palate and 86% of cases involving the secondary palate were visualized using 3D ultrasound with a satisfactory false‐positive rate. Virtual navigation of the fetal palate using the multiplanar mode display seems to be useful in the diagnosis of clefting in the first trimester. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diversity and distribution of avian haematozoan parasites in the western Indian Ocean region: a molecular survey
Authors: ISHTIAQ FARAH , BEADELL JON S. , H.WARREN BEN , FLEISCHER ROBERT C.
Published: November 2011

The genetic diversity of haematozoan parasites in island avifauna has only recently begun to be explored, despite the potential insight that these data can provide into the history of association between hosts and parasites and the possible threat posed to island endemics. We used mitochondrial DNA sequencing to characterize the diversity of 2 genera of vector-mediated parasites (PlasmodiumandHaemoproteus) in avian blood samples from the western Indian Ocean region and explored their relationship with parasites from continental Africa. We detected infections in 68 out of 150 (45 3%) individuals and cytochromebsequences identified 9 genetically distinct lineages ofPlasmodiumspp. and 7 lineages ofHaemoproteusspp. We found considerable heterogeneity in parasite lineage composition across islands, although limited sampling may, in part, be responsible for perceived differences. Two lineages ofPlasmodiumspp. and 2 lineages ofHaemoproteusspp. were shared by hosts in the Indian Ocean and also on mainland Africa, suggesting that these lineages may have arrived relatively recently. Polyphyly of island parasites indicated that these parasites were unlikely to constitute an endemic radiation and instead probably represent multiple colonization events. This study represents the first molecular survey of vector-mediated parasites in the western Indian Ocean, and has uncovered a diversity of parasites. Full understanding of parasite community composition and possible threats to endemic avian hosts will require comprehensive surveys across the avifauna of this region.
Changes in protein expression in the sheep abomasum following trickle infection with Teladorsagia circumcincta
Authors: PEMBERTON ALAN D. , BROWN JEREMY K. , CRAIG NICKY M. , PATE JUDITH , McLEAN KEVIN , INGLIS NEIL F. , KNOX DAVID , KNIGHT PAMELA A.
Published: November 2011

Continual low-level exposure of sheep to the helminth Teladorsagia circumcincta elicits a temporary protective immunity, where factors in the immune abomasal mucosa prevent penetration of infective larvae, but which is essentially lost within 6 weeks of cessation of parasite challenge. Here, a proteomic approach was used to identify proteins that are differentially regulated in immune compared to naïve sheep, as potential key mediators of immunity. Six naïve sheep and 12 sheep trickle-infected with T. circumcincta were treated with anthelmintic, and the naïve (control) and 6 immune sheep were killed 7 days later. The remaining 6 sheep (immune waning) were killed 42 days after anthelmintic treatment. Abomasal tissue samples were subjected to 2D-gel electrophoresis and densitometric analysis. Selected spots (n=73) were identified by peptide mass fingerprinting and confirmatory Western blotting was carried out for 10 proteins. Spots selectively up-regulated in immune versus control, but not immune waning versus control sheep, included galectin-15 and thioredoxin, which were confirmed by Western blotting. In immune sheep, serum albumin was significantly down-regulated and albumin proteolytic cleavage fragments were increased compared to controls. Unexpectedly, albumin mRNA was relatively highly expressed in control mucosa, down-regulated in immune, and was immunolocalized to mucus-producing epithelial cells. Thus we have identified differential expression of a number of proteins following T. circumcincta trickle infection that may play a role in host protection and inhibition of parasite establishment.
Cognitive Linguistic approaches to teaching vocabulary: Assessment and integration
Authors: Boers Frank
Published: November 2011

The pace at which new L2 words or expressions are acquired is influenced by the degree of engagement with them on the part of the learner. Several researchers with a Cognitive-Linguistics (CL) background have, since the 1990s, proposed ways of exploiting non-arbitrary aspects of vocabulary as stimuli for such engagement. Their proposals have been backed up by the results of several quasi-experimental studies. It must be acknowledged, however, that many of these are small-scale, some show only small effect sizes, and some are hard to interpret due to confounding variables. Taken collectively, the reported experiments are nevertheless beginning to constitute a body of evidence in favour of CL-informed instruction that is hard to dismiss, so there is reason to believe that this kind of instruction deserves a niche in second language programmes. However, a judicious implementation of CL ideas stands to gain considerably from a closer alignment with ‘mainstream’ second language vocabulary research. Insights to be taken on board from the mainstream concern issues of selection, the desirability of distributed learning, and the need to cater for complementary types of knowledge.
REASON, THE COMMON LAW, AND THE LIVING CONSTITUTION
Authors: Steilen Matthew
Published: November 2011

This article reviews David Strauss's recent book,The Living Constitution. The thesis of Strauss's book is that constitutional law is a kind of common law, based largely on judicial precedent and commonsense judgments about what works and what is fair. In defending this claim, Strauss argues that central constitutional prohibitions of discrimination and protections of free speech have a common-law basis and that the originalist should consequently reject them. The review disputes this contention. It examines Strauss's account of the common law and argues that it cannot support our First Amendment protections of subversive advocacy, as Strauss says it does. The review then offers an alternative account of the common law based on the “classical” common-law theory associated with Coke and Hale. The latter account does support our protections of subversive advocacy but is much less appealing to those distrustful of ambitious and large-scale judicial action.
POLICY INTERACTION AND LEARNING EQUILIBRIA
Authors: Kudoh Noritaka
Published: November 2011

This note studies fiscal–monetary policy interactions in an endogenous growth model with multiple assets. The “growth-rate Laffer curve” clarifies an important tension between economic growth and government revenue and reveals that higher economic growth does not always finance a larger budget deficit. There are two Pareto-ranked balanced-growth equilibria, which can both be E-stable. Although fiscal policy can eliminate the expectational indeterminacy, it rules out the equilibrium with a higher growth rate and higher welfare. Near the lower bound of the nominal interest rate, an arbitrarily small budget deficit will select the low-growth equilibrium to be the unique E-stable equilibrium.
Having one's cake and eating it: the paradox of contextualisation in socio-legal research
Authors: Banakar Reza
Published: November 2011

Traditional doctrinal scholarship provides an important service to practising lawyers by analysing legal rules and decisions, clarifying ambiguities within rules, structuring them in a logical and coherent manner and describing their interrelationship (Chynoweth, 2008). The systematisation and formulation of the law in terms of doctrine creates a conceptual basis for constructing alegal contextthat helps to determine which rules should be applied in a particular situation. In this sense, doctrinal studies emerge out of the study of legal texts (or black-letter law), which are generated by legislature, courts and other legal authorities, and feed back in to legal practice once they are used in deciding cases. The method of doctrinal research, being functional to legal practice, dominates academic law and legal education. Notwithstanding its role in supporting legal practice, the doctrinal approach is criticised for conveying a normatively closed image of law (Cotterrell, 1995, pp. 50–53), for constructing the legal context narrowly, for presenting the legal system as a body of rules which can be studied in isolation from the broader societal context of the legal system by the exegesis of authoritative texts (Bradney, 1998, p. 76; Vick, 2004), for ‘not being self-conscious about its assumptions’ (Twining, 1999, p. 44) and for cultivating what Geoffrey Samuel (2009) calls the ‘authority paradigm’. Internally, i.e. from the standpoint of the legal system and its functionaries, this paradigm (or legal context) is produced by way of self-reference and normative closure, continually reaffirming the authority of legal sources such as legal texts, previous legal decisions and/or legislation, and prioritising definitions and methods based on what William Twining called the ‘practical insider attitudes’ (Twining, 2000, p. 129; for a discussion, see Banakar, 2003, p. 8). Externally, i.e. from the standpoint of policy-makers and citizenry, it is upheld through the threat of violence against non-compliance, backed by the authority of the modern state. The authority paradigm's normative closure and its dependency on coercion encourage ‘rigidity and introspection rather than an open-minded attitude to academic methods and pursuits’ (Samuel, 2009, p. 432). It fosters an understanding of the law as a system, which exists independently of societal forces. In order to escape the intellectual constraints of the authority paradigm, many academic lawyers turn to social theory and social sciences, which in contrast to law are based on the ‘perspective of enquiry’ (Samuel, 2009; see also Banakar, 2009b). These scholars place the law in the broader sociocultural context of the legal system and study legal phenomena in relation to societal forces, which are the prerequisite for the existence of the legal system and the production of the narrow legal context of the law. However, such an evasive strategy often comes at a price.
Die Bedeutung der Itemauswahl und der Modellwahl für die längsschnittliche Erfassung von Kompetenzen
Authors: Robitzsch Alexander , Dörfler Tobias , Pfost Maximilian , Artelt Cordula
Published: November 2011

Zusammenfassung. In diesem Beitrag wird die Entwicklung der Lesekompetenz von Grundschülerinnen und Grundschülern anhand des ELFE-Tests ( Lenhard & Schneider, 2005 ) untersucht. Dabei wird die Bedeutung der Itemauswahl im verwendeten Test (sog. Item Sampling) als auch der Auswahl statistischer Modelle (sog. Multi Model Inferenz) im Hinblick auf Effektgrößen der Veränderung diskutiert und deren Variabilität quantifiziert. Es wird argumentiert, dass in einem Konzept der Generalisierbarkeit bei Tests (mindestens) drei Facetten eine wichtige Rolle spielen: die Stichprobenziehung oder Auswahl von Personen, Items und die Wahl statistischer Modelle. Die empirischen Befunde dieses Beitrags zeigen auf, dass die in Publikationen meist vernachlässigten Variationsquellen von Item Sampling und der Modellwahl gegenüber der Stichprobenziehung von Personen nicht vernachlässigbar sind.
CD8αα and ‐αβ isotypes are equally recruited to the immunological synapse through their ability to bind to MHC class I
Authors: Rybakin Vasily , Clamme Jean‐Pierre , Ampudia Jeanette , Yachi Pia P , Gascoigne Nicholas R J
Published: November 2011

Bimolecular fluorescence complementation was used to engineer CD8 molecules so that CD8αα and CD8αβ dimers can be independently visualized on the surface of a T cell during antigen recognition. Using this approach, we show that CD8αα is recruited to the immunological synapse almost as well as CD8αβ, but because the kinase Lck associates preferentially with CD8αβ in lipid rafts, CD8αα is the weaker co‐receptor. During recognition of the strong CD8αα ligand H2‐TL, CD8αα is preferentially recruited. Thus, recruitment of the two CD8 species correlates with their relative binding to the available ligands, rather than with the co‐receptor functions of the CD8 species.
Superinfection in malaria: Plasmodium shows its iron will
Authors: Portugal Sílvia , Drakesmith Hal , Mota Maria M
Published: November 2011

After the bite of a malaria‐infected mosquito, the Plasmodium sporozoite infects liver cells and produces thousands of merozoites, which then infect red blood cells, causing malaria. In malaria‐endemic areas, several hundred infected mosquitoes can bite an individual each year, increasing the risk of superinfection. However, in infants that are yet to acquire immunity, superinfections are infrequent. We have recently shown that blood‐stage parasitaemia, above a minimum threshold, impairs the growth of a subsequent sporozoite infection of liver cells. Blood‐stage parasites stimulate the production of the host iron‐regulatory factor hepcidin, which redistributes iron away from hepatocytes, reducing the development of the iron‐dependent liver stage. This could explain why Plasmodium superinfection is not often found in young nonimmune children. Here, we discuss the impact that such protection from superinfection might have in epidemiological settings or in programmes for controlling malaria, as well as how the induction of hepcidin and redistribution of iron might influence anaemia and the outcome of non‐Plasmodium co‐infections.
A new target for personalized medicine
Authors: Hunter Philip
Published: November 2011

Epigenetics research is racing ahead to address questions about short‐term adaptation to environmental changes. It might also open new therapeutic options for diseases such as cancer or diabetes.
Ornithine decarboxylase mRNA is stabilized in an mTORC1-dependent manner in Ras-transformed cells
Authors: Origanti Sofia , Nowotarski Shannon L. , Carr Theresa D. , Sass-Kuhn Suzanne , Xiao Lan , Wang Jian-Ying , Shantz Lisa M.
Published: November 2011

Upon Ras activation, ODC (ornithine decarboxylase) is markedly induced, and numerous studies suggest that ODC expression is controlled by Ras effector pathways. ODC is therefore a potential target in the treatment and prevention of Ras-driven tumours. In the present study we compared ODC mRNA translation profiles and stability in normal and Ras12V-transformed RIE-1 (rat intestinal epithelial) cells. While translation initiation of ODC increased modestly in Ras12V cells, ODC mRNA was stabilized 8-fold. Treatment with the specific mTORC1 [mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) complex 1] inhibitor rapamycin or siRNA (small interfering RNA) knockdown of mTOR destabilized the ODC mRNA, but rapamycin had only a minor effect on ODC translation initiation. Inhibition of mTORC1 also reduced the association of the mRNA-binding protein HuR with the ODC transcript. We have shown previously that HuR binding to the ODC 3′UTR (untranslated region) results in significant stabilization of the ODC mRNA, which contains several AU-rich regions within its 3′UTR that may act as regulatory sequences. Analysis of ODC 3′UTR deletion constructs suggests that cis-acting elements between base 1969 and base 2141 of the ODC mRNA act to stabilize the ODC transcript. These experiments thus define a novel mechanism of ODC synthesis control. Regulation of ODC mRNA decay could be an important means of limiting polyamine accumulation and subsequent tumour development.
Comparison of Fluorescent Marker Systems with 2 Quantitative Methods of Assessing Terminal Cleaning Practices
Authors: Boyce John M. , Havill Nancy L. , Havill Heather L. , Mangione Elise , Dumigan Diane G. , Moore Brent A.
Published: November 2011

Objective.

To compare fluorescent markers with aerobic colony counts (ACCs) and an adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence assay system for assessing terminal cleaning practices.

Design.

A prospective observational survey.

Setting.

A 500-bed university-affiliated community teaching hospital.

Methods.

In a convenience sample of 100 hospital rooms, 5 high-touch surfaces were marked with fluorescent markers before terminal cleaning and checked after cleaning to see whether the marker had been entirely or partially removed. ACC and ATP readings were performed on the same surfaces before and after terminal cleaning.

Results.

Overall, 378 (76%) of 500 surfaces were classified as having been cleaned according to fluorescent markers, compared with 384 (77%) according to ACC criteria and 225 (45%) according to ATP criteria. Of 382 surfaces classified as not clean according to ATP criteria before terminal cleaning, those with the marker removed were significantly more likely than those with the marker partially removed to be classified as clean according to ATP criteria (P = .003).

Conclusions.

Fluorescent markers are useful in determining how frequently high-touch surfaces are wiped during terminal cleaning. However, contaminated surfaces classified as clean according to fluorescent marker criteria after terminal cleaning were significantly less likely to be classified as clean according to ACC and ATP assays.
Size-dependent deformation mechanisms of Al nanopillars
Authors: Milne R J , Lockwood A J , Inkson B J
Published: November 2011

The dynamical mechanical properties of Al nanopillars, <1 µm in diameter and with aspect ratios ranging from 2 : 1–6 : 1, have been evaluated in real-time by uniaxial compression testing inside a transmission electron microscope. The compressive deformation mode of the Al pillars is observed to be dependent on the diameter/aspect ratio of the pillar under test. For comparable height pillars and increasing aspect ratio, the compressive deformation mode of the Al pillars changes from deformation via discrete slip bands on multiple slip systems (900 nm diameter, aspect ratio ∼2 : 1), to localized bulging at the apex of the pillar, followed by slip band initiation (450 nm diameter, aspect ratio ∼4 : 1), to a full pillar buckling mode (250 nm diameter, aspect ratio ∼6 : 1). Al pillar buckling is observed to initiate a new pillar deformation sequence, comprising lateral slip of the pillar across the compressing diamond probe and generation of a 90° pillar kink. Extreme deformation close to the 90° kink results in sudden major strain bursts and lateral shear events, with dynamic recrystallization of the displaced Al volume occurring to form new grains.
A mode transition in self-suppressing double tearing modes via Alfvén resonance in rotating tokamak plasmas
Authors: Wei Lai , Wang Zheng-Xiong
Published: November 2011

The rotation profile effects on self-suppressing double tearing modes (DTMs) via Alfvén resonance in rotating tokamak plasmas with reversed magnetic shear are numerically investigated using a reduced magnetohydrodynamic model. The synergetic effects of Alfvén resonance and flow shear on suppressing the DTMs are addressed. It is found that the Alfvén resonances on both sides of the inner rational surface r

s1 decouple the strongly coupled DTMs, and simultaneously the flow shear further stabilizes the tearing instability on the outer rational surface r

s2. When the tearing instability on r

s2 is stabilized so significantly that it becomes less unstable than the original one on r

s1, a new mode transition occurs, in which the tearing instability excitation switches from r

s2 to r

s1; meanwhile, the Alfvén resonances switch from both sides of r

s1 to both sides of r

s2. Moreover, the characteristics of the two eigenmode patterns of the DTM-induced Alfvén resonances are analysed in detail. In addition, it is observed that the critical rotation frequency of the mode transition is almost independent of resistivity.
Flow measurements and modelling in helical RFX-mod equilibria
Authors: Bonomo F. , Bonfiglio D. , Piovesan P. , Piron L. , Zaniol B. , Cappello S. , Carraro L. , Cavazzana R. , Gobbin M. , Marrelli L. , Martines E. , Momo B. , Puiatti M.E. , Valisa M.
Published: November 2011

In the reversed field pinch experiment RFX-mod, plasma currents larger than 1 MA show a spontaneous transition from an axisymmetric to a helical configuration, where electron internal transport barriers (eITB) are observed in the proximity of the maximum of the q safety factor. 3D MHD simulations predict a helical flow pattern associated with the helical deformation of the magnetic flux surfaces. This paper reports the recent experimental findings on plasma flow in these helical regimes. Passive spectroscopy measurements of carbon and boron line Doppler shift allow the reconstruction of the m = 1 component of the velocity pattern associated with the helical equilibrium in a poloidal cross-section. The helical plasma flow is observed to form a m = 1 convective cell creating a localized sheared flow outside the region of strong electron temperature gradients characterizing the eITB. The experimental pattern is compared with the results of 3D MHD simulations (by means of the SpeCyl code). While the code predicts a flow shear peaking in the proximity of the null of the magnetic shear, where the safety factor is maximum, experimentally the maximum flow shear is found to be more external, leaving as a still open question the role played by the flow shear for the thermal barrier formation in RFX-mod helical plasmas.
Low-Σ twist and tilt grain boundaries in cubic materials
Authors: Morawiec A.
Published: November 2011

Knowledge of the geometry of grain boundaries in polycrystalline materials is essential for predicting boundary properties. The issue of cataloging the geometrically characterized groups of twist and tilt boundaries is addressed. All distinct types of pure-twist and pure-tilt boundaries are determined for misorientations corresponding to highly coincident (3 ≤ Σ ≤ 13) lattices of cubic symmetry. For these particular misorientations, the number of distinct twist boundaries and zones of tilt boundaries ranges from 5 (Σ = 3) to 11 (Σ = 9 or 11). Maps displaying the locations of twist and tilt boundary planes indicate boundaries having particular geometries with two-dimensional periodicities. This is of significance for identification of special boundary structures. Moreover, the maps allow for relating peaks on experimentally determined grain boundary distributions to particular types of twist or tilt boundaries.
Octuple cuvette for small-angle X-ray solution scattering
Authors: Akiyama Shuji , Hikima Takaaki
Published: November 2011

A new octuple cuvette has been developed to reduce the experimental time in small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Since each chamber has uniform dimensions, identical scattering curves for bovine serum albumin are obtained within an average deviation of 1%. The cuvette can be used to record SAXS curves for seven sample concentrations quasi-simultaneously by interchamber subtraction,i.e.calculating the difference in scattering intensity between the sample in any of the first seven chambers and a matching buffer in the eighth chamber. This enables fast acquisition of a data set and its extrapolation to infinite dilution, and increases the throughput of SAXS experiments.
Co‐morbid diabetes in patients with Crohn’s disease predicts a greater need for surgical intervention
Authors: Harper J. W. , Welch M. P. , Sinanan M. N. , Wahbeh G. T. , Lee S. D.
Published: November 2011

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2012; 35: 126–132

Background  The prevalence of diabetes is increasing rapidly. Given its pro‐inflammatory nature, comorbid diabetes may affect the course of Crohn’s disease (CD).

Aim  To determine whether comorbid diabetes influences the natural history of CD.

Methods  We compared a cohort with CD and comorbid diabetes to a nondiabetic control population and calculated the period prevalence of surgical intervention over a 5‐year period. Unadjusted and adjusted odds‐ratios were calculated regarding the need for surgical intervention using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results  A total of 240 patients were identified, 16 of whom were diabetics (6.7%). The period prevalence of CD‐specific surgery in the diabetic cases was 75.0% and in the nondiabetic controls, 31.7%. The diabetic patients were more obese than the controls (44% vs. 10%; P < 0.0001) and older than the controls (47.4 years vs. 38.6; P < 0.01). There was no difference in the frequency of biologic therapy use, immunomodulator use, smoking, perianal disease, ileal involvement or corticosteroid use between the diabetics and controls. Univariate analysis revealed that diabetes (OR 6.46 [95% CI 2.01–20.8]), smoking (OR 2.46 [95% CI 1.24–4.90]), ileal disease (OR 2.21 [95% CI 1.15–4.24]) and obesity (OR 2.22 [95% CI 1.04–4.77]) were risk factors for needing surgery. After adjustment for covariates, the OR for surgical intervention in diabetics was 5.4 (95% CI 1.65–17.64).

Conclusion  Co‐morbid diabetes in patients with Crohn’s disease predicts a greater need for surgical intervention.
D.—‘STUDIES OF THE REACTIVITY OF KERATIN WITH HEAVY METALS’
Authors: Sikorski J. , Simpson W. S.
Published: November 2011

SYNOPSIS

The ultimate aim of a rational electron staining technique should be to locate specific chemical sites. In view of the uncertainty of the types of chemical reactions taking place with some “recognized” electron stains, it has been decided to investigate those interactions between metal salts and keratin which are known to lead to the formation of metal sulphides or metal co‐ordination compounds. The present work was concentrated on the effects of mercury and lead salts and, apart from the usual thin‐sectioning techniques, covered also small and large angle X‐ray diffraction observations.
F.—DIFFERENTIAL ELECTRON STAINING OF THE SPERM CELL MEMBRANE
Authors: Silvester N. R. , Burge R. E.
Published: November 2011

SYNOPSIS

The efficiency of two new electron stains has been estimated by a quantitative method using the interference microscope and electron microscope. It is found that the sperm cell membrane shows significant uptake of the stains of the order of 10 p.c. by weight, while the nucleus remains unstained.
CYTOLOGY OF SPERMATOGENESIS IN THE HONEY‐BEE, APIS INDICA (F.)
Authors: Sharma G. P. , Gupta Brij L. , Kumbkarni C. G.
Published: November 2011

SYNOPSIS

The spermatogenesis of the honey‐bee, Apia indica (F.), has been worked out with special reference to the abortive meiosis and the role of cytoplasmic organelles.

The haploid number of sixteen chromosomes in the parthenogenetic males remains constant through‐out spermatogenesis.

Meiosis I is abortive, resulting in the formation of a definite non‐nucleated cytoplasmic bud containing some extra‐nuclear spindle fibres and the cytoplasmic body.

The significance of an extra‐and an intra‐nuclear spindle in relation to the abortive meiosis is discussed.

Meiosis II is normal so far as the nuclear division is concerned. The cytoplasm, however, divides unequally, resulting in the formation of a normal spermatid and a diminutive non‐functional spermatid body.

The mitochondria are in the form of filaments and granules in the early stages. During meiosis I they assume a characteristic “blebbed” appearance. In the spermatid they fuse to form a typical mitochondrial nebenkern, which ultimately gives rise to the mitochondrial sheath around the axial filament of the sperm.

A number of typical duplex spheroids (“Golgi dictyosomes”), each with a lipid sheath enclosing a non‐lipid medulla, are present in the spermatocytes. In the spermatid these duplex spheroids fuse to form a typical single acroblast which is sloughed off after depositing a pro‐acrosome at the nuclear membrane. The pro‐acrosome condenses to form the acrosome of the ripe sperm.
THE VARIATION IN THE STRUCTURE OF ERYTHROCYTE NUCLEI WITH FIXATION
Authors: Davies H. G. , Spencer M.
Published: November 2011

Several studies (see refs.) on nuclei and chromosomes have indicated that divalent cations, for example uranyl and calcium, have an important effect in stabilizing or staining the structures seen in the light or electron microscope. The basis of this study of the effect of calcium ions was as follows. In many organisms nuclear chromatin or chromosomes contain DNA and histone, which have negative and positive charge respectively at neutral pH. The volume of the nucleus depends in part on the molecular interaction of these charged macromolecules and hence may be used as a guide in attempts to preserve nuclear structure. Change in nuclear volume in response to changes in ionic environment are well known. The nuclei of erythrocytes were isolated in a medium in which the calcium ion concentration was adjusted to a value in which the volume remained approximately constant. When these isolated nuclei were prepared for electron microscopy using Palade fixation the nuclei were observed, in the light microscope, to undergo swelling and shrinking. On the other hand, when the fixative contained calcium ions, as in the isolation medium, the volume changes were minimal. These two methods result in a different nuclear structure in the electron microscope. These differences were discussed.
A technique of staining sections of paraffin‐embedded plant materials without employing a graded ethanol series
Authors: PERIASAMY K.
Published: November 2011

SYNOPSIS

Microtome sections of paraffin‐embedded plant materials that do not contain delicate‐walled tissues can be air dried on slides without any deleterious effect, after dissolving the wax with xylol and also after staining, thereby completely eliminating the ethanol series customarily employed. Sections that contain delicate‐walled tissues may be so dried if they are stained with tannic acid and ferric chloride.
An investigation into the relation between structure and fluorescence of azo dyes
Authors: PUCHTLER HOLDE , SWEAT FAYE , GROPP SOPHIE
Published: November 2011

SYNOPSIS

Though azo dyes are not fluorescent in solutions, many azo dyes become fluorescent when bound to tissues. This fluorescence is determined largely by the aromatic components of the dye molecules. Like chromophores, these fluorophores are affected by other groupings in dye molecules. Relatively short, compact systems of conjugated double bonds or linking of such resonators by insulating groups favours fluorescence. Long chains of conjugated double bonds and coupling of azo groups in the 1,4‐ or 2,7‐ position of naphthols diminish or abolish fluorescence. Various factors considered important for the fluorescence of other classes of dyes, such as ring closure, coplanarity of chromophores, accumulation of ring systems and low dye concentration are detrimental to the fluorescence of azo dyes. However, these rules apply only to azo dyes; the fluorescence of triphenylmethane, anthraquinone, and quinone‐imine dyes is governed by different factors. Three dioxazine dyes and three copper phthalocyanine dyes included in this study were non‐fluorescent.
An electron microscopical study of Polyacrylamide
Authors: QUAYLE D. V.
Published: November 2011

SYNOPSIS

The stages leading to the depositing of individual molecules of Polyacrylamide by spray technique have been studied electron microscopically. The number and weight average molecular weights of a high‐molecular‐weight fraction of Polyacrylamide were found to be 2.33 ± 0.23 × 106 and 2.59 ± 0.26 × 106 respectively, while the intrinsic viscosity determination gave 2.71 × 106. The molecular weight distribution for the fraction was also determined.
Storage of frozen materials for cryostat sectioning and “soluble‐compound” autoradiography
Authors: APPLETON T. C.
Published: November 2011

SYNOPSIS

A technique is described for the storage of biological materials in air tight sachets made from a new aluminium‐polythene laminate. Tissues containing highly mobile soluble radioactive material have been stored for periods up to six months in these sachets which are stored in a liquid nitrogen refrigerator. This method of storage preserves the tissues in such a way as to prevent ice crystal damage, and also prevents cross‐contamination of radioactive material which would result from contact between radioactive specimens.
5‐HT3and 5‐HT4receptors contribute to the anti‐motility effects ofGarcinia buchananiibark extract in the guinea‐pig distal colon
Authors: Boakye P. A. , Stenkamp‐Strahm C. , Bhattarai Y. , Heckman M. D. , Brierley S. M. , Pasilis S. P. , Balemba O. B.
Published: November 2011

Background Garcinia buchananiibark extract is an anti‐motility diarrhea remedy. We investigated whetherG. buchananiibark extract has components that reduce gastrointestinal peristaltic activity via 5‐HT3and 5‐HT4receptors.

Methods AqueousG. buchananiiextract was separated into fractions using preparative thin layer chromatography (PTLC), and major chemical components were identified using standard tests. The anti‐motility effects of the extract and its fractions (PTLC1‐5) were studied through pellet propulsion assays using isolated guinea‐pig distal colons.

Key Results Anti‐motility (PTLC1 & PTLC5) and pro‐motility (PTLC2) fractions were isolated from the extract. Flavonoids, steroids, alkaloids, tannins, and phenols were identified in the extract and PTLC1&5. The potency of the extract applied via the mucosal surface was reduced by 5‐HT, 5‐HT3receptor agonist RS‐56812, 5‐HT4receptor agonists cisapride and CJ‐033466, 5‐HT3receptor antagonist granisetron, and 5‐HT4receptor antagonist GR‐113808. The anti‐motility effects of the aqueous extract and PTLC1&5 when applied serosally were reversed by RS‐56812, cisapride, and CJ‐033466. The 5‐HT3receptor antagonists, granisetron and ondansetron, reduced the effects of the extract to an extent and completely reversed the anti‐motility effects of PTLC1&5. GR‐113808 inhibited the actions of the extract during the initial 10 min, but enhanced the extracts’ anti‐motility effects after 15 min. GR‐113808 augmented the anti‐motility activities of PTLC1 and PTLC5 by 30%.

Conclusions & Inferences These results indicate that the anti‐motility effects ofG. buchananiiaqueous extract are potentially mediated by compounds that affect 5‐HT3and 5‐HT4receptors. Identification and characterization of the bioactive compounds withinG. buchananiicould lead to the discovery of new non‐opiate anti‐diarrhea formulations.
Abrupt shifts in African savanna tree cover along a climatic gradient
Authors: Favier Charly , Aleman Julie , Bremond Laurent , Dubois Marc A. , Freycon Vincent , Yangakola Jean‐Michel
Published: November 2011

Aim  To describe patterns of tree cover in savannas over a climatic gradient and a range of spatial scales and test if there are identifiable climate‐related mean structures, if tree cover always increases with water availability and if there is a continuous trend or a stepwise trend in tree cover.

Location  Central Tropical Africa.

Methods  We compared a new analysis of satellite tree cover data with botanical, phytogeographical and environmental data.

Results  Along the climatic transect, six vegetation structures were distinguished according to their average tree cover, which can co‐occur as mosaics. The resulting abrupt shifts in tree cover were not correlated to any shifts in either environmental variables or in tree species distributions.

Main conclusions  A strong contrast appears between fine‐scale variability in tree cover and coarse‐scale structural states that are stable over several degrees of latitude. While climate parameters and species pools display a continuous evolution along the climatic gradient, these stable structural states have discontinuous transitions, resulting in regions containing mosaics of alternative stable states. Soils appear to have little effect inside the climatic stable state domains but a strong action on the location of the transitions. This indicates that savannas are patch dynamics systems, prone to feedbacks stabilizing their coarse‐scale structure over wide ranges of environmental conditions.
Taking Stock of Antidumping, Safeguards and Countervailing Duties, 1990–2009
Authors: Bown Chad P.
Published: November 2011

This article examines the evolving, cross‐country use of antidumping, safeguard and countervailing duty policies – temporary trade barriers (TTBs) – over the period 1990–2009. I construct two new measures of imported products subject to the combined use of these TTBs before applying these measures to new data drawn from the World Bank’sTemporary Trade Barriers Database. I then establish a number of facts regarding trends in historical use to benchmark against policy activity during the global economic crisis of 2008–09. The 2008–09 economic shock mostly accentuates patterns and trends already visible in the precrisis data: e.g., while the major users of such policies overall combined to increase the product lines subject to TTBs by 25 per cent during the crisis, this was driven almost entirely by developing economies which increased their product coverage by 40 per cent. Perhaps surprisingly, recession‐affected high‐income economies increased their stock of product coverage by only 5 per cent during the crisis, a muted policy response consistent with earlier trends in which major developed economies like the United States and EU reduced the stock of imported products they subject to TTBs to 2007 levels that were only 50 per cent as high as their within‐period peak. Furthermore, a previously unidentified feature of the data is that a much larger share of China’s exported products to other developing economies is subject to foreign‐imposed antidumping than its exports to developed economies. The evidence confirms this feature is shared by a number of other major developing economy exporters, deepening concern that these discriminatory trade barriers are increasingly a ‘South–South’ phenomenon. Finally, I also clarify emerging trends in countervailing duty (anti‐subsidy) use across countries.
‘Superstition will Add to its Horrors’: The Early American Penitentiary and its Gothic Shadow
Authors: Fiddler Michael
Published: November 2011

In relation to the early American penal experiment, we might imagine an unbroken line of development that takes us from William Penn's code of 1682 through to the monumental structures of the Jacksonian era. These were to be sources of civic pride and would locate the penitentiary as a utopic site (Rothman ). However, at each stage of this evolution of imprisonment, there was a Gothic undercurrent. In analysing these early penitentiaries, their architecture and the popular literature relating to them, we can begin to unpack the ongoing construction of the ‘place myth’ of the prison within the penal imagination.
Host specificity in phytophagous insects: selection pressure from generalist predators
Authors: Bernays E. A.
Published: November 2011

The narrow host range of insect herbivores is noted, and some of the reasons why specificity has evolved are reviewed. Works indicating the need for new approaches are pointed out including the possibility that generalist predators provide a suitable pressure. Experiments to test the hypothesis that generalists are more vulnerable than specialists to predators are described. They involve a vespid wasp and over thirty species pairs of caterpillars, matched for size and density. Overall, generalists were taken more readily than specialists: some but not all reasons could be detected. The results are discussed in ecological and evolutionary terms.
Multiple successional pathways and precocity in forest development: can some forests be born complex?
Authors: Donato Daniel C. , Campbell John L. , Franklin Jerry F.
Published: November 2011

Background

In forests subject to stand‐replacing disturbances, conventional models of succession typically overlook early‐seral stages as a simple re‐organization/establishment period. These models treat structural development in essentially ‘relay floristic’ terms, with structural complexity (three‐dimensional heterogeneity) developing primarily in old‐growth stages, only after a closed‐canopy ‘self‐thinning’ phase and subsequent canopy gap formation. However, is it possible that early‐successional forests can sometimes exhibit spatial complexity similar to that in old‐growth forests – i.e. akin to an ‘initial floristic’ model of structural development?

Hypothesis

Based on empirical observations, we present a hypothesis regarding an important alternative pathway in which protracted or sparse forest establishment and interspecific competition thin out tree densities early on – thereby precluding overstorey canopy closure or a traditionally defined self‐thinning phase. Although historically viewed as an impediment to stand development, we suggest this process may actually advance certain forms of structural complexity. These young stands can exhibit qualities typically attributed only to old forests, including: (1) canopy gaps associated with clumped and widely spaced tree stems; (2) vertically heterogeneous canopies including under‐ and mid‐stories, albeit lower stature; (3) co‐existence of shade‐tolerant and intolerant species; and (4) abundant dead wood. Moreover, some of these qualities may persist through succession, meaning that a significant portion of eventual old‐growth spatial pattern may already be determined in this early stage.

Implications

The relative frequency of this open‐canopy pathway, and the degree to which precocious complexity supports functional complexity analogous to that of old forests, are largely unknown due to the paucity of naturally regenerating forests in many regions. Nevertheless, recognition of this potential is important for the understanding and management of early‐successional forests.
Implementation of a skin cancer screening tool in a primary care setting: A pilot study
Authors: Bradley Holly B
Published: November 2011

Purpose: (a) To explore whether there would be an increase in nurse practitioner (NP) skin cancer screening knowledge following an educational program. (b) To determine whether NPs report enhanced physical assessment skills when applying a screening tool in clinical practice. (c) To determine whether use of a skin cancer screening tool improves NP documentation during student physical exams.

Data sources: Data were gathered in phase one of the study through a pretest, educational intervention, posttest, and program evaluation. Phase two gathered data from a prestudy patient chart analysis, and a poststudy chart analysis following implementation of a skin cancer screening tool. A convenience sample of six female NPs age of 40–64 years was drawn from a single college health center in the northeast.

Conclusions: There is demonstrated efficacy educating NPs in proper documentation/early detection of skin cancer among young adults in a college health, primary care setting. Findings revealed a 223.4% increase in proper documentation of skin cancer screening and skin cancer patient education.

Implications for practice: Educating NPs in skin cancer identification, screening and use of a skin cancer screening tool is an effective way to improve quality of services provided to patients and quality of NP documentation.