bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Notch-mediated patterning and cell fate allocation of pancreatic progenitor cells
Authors: Afelik Solomon , Qu Xiaoling , Hasrouni Edy , Bukys Michael A. , Deering Tye , Nieuwoudt Stephan , Rogers William , MacDonald Raymond J. , Jensen Jan
Published: March 2012

Early pancreatic morphogenesis is characterized by the transformation of an uncommitted pool of pancreatic progenitor cells into a branched pancreatic epithelium that consists of ‘tip’ and ‘trunk’ domains. These domains have distinct molecular signatures and differentiate into distinct pancreatic cell lineages. Cells at the branched tips of the epithelium develop into acinar cells, whereas cells in the trunk subcompartment differentiate into endocrine and duct cells. Recent genetic analyses have highlighted the role of key transcriptional regulators in the specification of these subcompartments. Here, we analyzed in mice the role of Notch signaling in the patterning of multipotent pancreatic progenitor cells through mosaic overexpression of a Notch signaling antagonist, dominant-negative mastermind-like 1, resulting in a mixture of wild-type and Notch-suppressed pancreatic progenitor cells. We find that attenuation of Notch signaling has pronounced patterning effects on multipotent pancreatic progenitor cells prior to terminal differentiation. Relative to the wild-type cells, the Notch-suppressed cells lose trunk marker genes and gain expression of tip marker genes. The Notch-suppressed cells subsequently differentiate into acinar cells, whereas duct and endocrine populations are formed predominantly from the wild-type cells. Mechanistically, these observations could be explained by a requirement of Notch for the expression of the trunk determination gene Nkx6.1. This was supported by the finding of direct binding of RBP-jκ to the Nkx6.1 proximal promoter.
Tracing patterns: Critical approaches to on-screen fashion
Authors: Warner Helen
Published: April 2012

In 1990, Jane Gaines and Charlotte Herzog’s hugely influential edited collection, Fabrications, opened up the discussion of the complex relationship between the female consumer and the female viewer; and while an important body of work has developed within this area, the study
of on-screen fashion continues to be somewhat marginalised in the academy. This article examines some of the recent contributions to the study of on-screen fashion, situating them in relation to broader debates about fashion, costume, feminism and identity. In so doing, it seeks to examine
the fortitude field, 21 years on from Fabrications, in order to examine how the study of on-screen fashion has developed and how it may evolve in the future.
Prospective risk of stillbirth: monochorionic diamniotic twins vs. dichorionic twins
Authors: Morikawa Mamoru , Yamada Takashi , Yamada Takahiro , Sato Shoji , Cho Kazutoshi , Minakami Hisanori
Published: March 2012

Aims: To determine reliably the risk of stillbirth among twin pregnancies.

Methods: A data analysis of 3241 and 6581 women with monochorionic diamniotic (MD) and dichorionic (DD) twins, respectively, who gave birth at ≥22 weeks of gestation.

Results: The prospective risk (per 1000 women) of stillbirth, 25.3 and 11.5 at gestational week 22, decreased to <10.0 at gestational weeks 31 and 28 among the MD and DD twins, respectively. After single intrauterine fetal death, the co-twin died in utero or within 7 days of life more frequently among MD twins than among DD twins [42.7% (35/82) vs. 2.6% (2/76); relative risk, 16.2; 95% confidence interval, 4.0–65.1].

Conclusion: Women with MD twins were 2.2-fold more likely to experience stillbirth than women with DD twins. The prospective risks of stillbirth were <1.0% for both groups of women at ≥32 weeks of gestation.
Cross-over training in neonatology and obstetrics
Authors: Ismail Abdul Qader Tahir
Published: March 2012

Neonatology is a relatively new subspeciality of paediatrics, and before this, newborn babies were often managed by obstetricians. The two fields are closely related in the continuity of care that is being provided, and both specialities involve difficult and critical decisions. From personal experience, training in both specialities, even at a junior level, allows a greater understanding of the complexities surrounding these choices and their implications. As such, I propose a short period of mandatory training in both specialities for anyone considering a career in either.
ZnO Coated Nanoparticle Phosphors
Authors: Kobayashi Masakazu
Published: March 2012

Conventional phosphor materials are doped ternary or quaternary compounds; hence it would be difficult to prepare nanoparticles of those materials by build up methods. Ba2ZnS3:Mn (BZS), SrGa2S4:Eu, and BaAl2S4:Eu nanoparticles were prepared by a break down method, namely the ball-milling method. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and TEM- energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) measurements showed several-nanometer-size stoichiometric and dispersed nanoparticles were achieved. ZnO-coating was performed and the uniform coating layers were formed on the phosphor nanoparticles. The ZnO-coated nanoparticles exhibited an improved stability in Photoluminescence. Red color phosphor material, namely BZS, was ball-milled and sprayed on the glass substrate. Mn doped BZS absorbs ultra violet light and emits red light peaking at around 640nm. When the single crystal Si solar cell was placed under the transparent nanoparticle layer, short wavelength light was absorbed and converted to long wavelength light.
Potential Bone Replacement Materials Prepared by Two Methods
Authors: Lee Steve , Porter Michael , Wasko Scott , Lau Grace , Chen Po-Yu , Novitskaya Ekaterina E. , Tomsia Antoni P. , Almutairi Adah , Meyers Marc A. , McKittrick Joanna
Published: March 2012

Natural and synthetic hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds for potential load-bearing bone implants were fabricated by two methods. The natural scaffolds were formed by heating bovine cancellous bone at 1325°C, which removed the organic and sintered the HA. The synthetic scaffolds were prepared by freeze-casting HA powders, using different solid loadings (20–35 vol.%) and cooling rates (1–10°C/min). Both types of scaffolds were infiltrated with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). The porosity, pore size, and compressive mechanical properties of the natural and synthetic scaffolds were investigated and compared to that of natural cortical and cancellous bone. Prior to infiltration, the sintered cancellous scaffolds exhibited pore sizes of 100 – 300 μm, a strength of 0.4 – 9.7 MPa, and a Young’s modulus of 0.1 – 1.2 GPa. The freeze-casted scaffolds had pore sizes of 10 – 50 μm, strengths of 0.7 – 95.1 MPa, and Young’s moduli of 0.1 –19.2 GPa. When infiltrated with PMMA, the cancellous bone- PMMA composite showed a strength of 55 MPa and a Young’s modulus of 4.5 GPa. Preliminary data for the synthetic HA-PMMA composite showed a strength of 42 MPa and a modulus of 0.8 GPa.
Tendência temporal de asma em crianças e adolescentes no Brasil no período de 1998 a 2008
Authors: Wehrmeister Fernando César , Menezes Ana Maria Baptista , Cascaes Andreia Morales , Martínez-Mesa Jeovany , Barros Aluisio J D
Published: March 2012

OBJETIVO: Analisar as tendências de asma em crianças e adolescentes entre 1998 e 2008 no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Foram analisados os dados de prevalência de asma da Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios, dos anos de 1998, 2003 e 2008. A amostra foi constituída por 141.402, 144.443 e 134.032 indivíduos em 1998, 2003 e 2008, respectivamente, e a análise foi ajustada pelo desenho amostral. As tendências de asma foram descritas por sexo, regiões do Brasil e local de residência, em crianças (zero a nove anos) e adolescentes (dez a 19 anos). RESULTADOS: A prevalência de asma entre crianças foi 7,7% em 1998, 8,1% em 2003 e 8,5% em 2008, com um incremento anual de 1%. O maior aumento anual foi observado nas regiões Sudeste e Norte (1,4%). Entre o grupo de adolescentes, a prevalência de asma foi de 4,4% em 1998, 5,0% em 2003 e 5,5% em 2008, com aumento de 2,2% ao ano. Na região Nordeste, o aumento anual na prevalência de asma foi de 3,5%. Os maiores incrementos foram observados entre os meninos e entre moradores da zona rural. CONCLUSÕES: Apesar de a asma apresentar um decréscimo em países emergentes, no Brasil os resultados apontam um incremento da asma entre crianças e adolescentes no período de 1998 e 2008, especialmente na zona rural.
Medos urbanos e mídia: o imaginário sobre juventude e violência no Brasil atual
Authors: Koury Mauro Guilherme Pinheiro
Published: March 2012

Este artigo discute a cultura e a indústria do medo no Brasil atual, através da relação entre juventude e violência, e no avaliar as consequências desta correlação por meio das proposições levantadas pela mídia brasileira no imaginário nacional. Essa problemática é compreendida tendo em vista a questão da formação dos jovens no país nessa primeira década do século XXI, e em um momento de mudanças significativas nos padrões de comportamento nacional. Mudanças que pulverizam os valores sociais e caminham a passos largos para o individualismo crescente nas relações societárias e uma ampliação do medo do outro, no interior das formas interativas a que estão sujeitos não apenas a juventude, mas a população em geral.
Agricultura em zonas ripárias do sul do Brasil: conflitos de uso da terra e impactos nos recursos hídricos
Authors: Martini Luiz Carlos Pittol , Trentini Élen Cristin
Published: March 2012

O trabalho apresenta e discute a questão da proteção de zonas ripárias em áreas agrícolas do Sul do Brasil, em especial no Estado de Santa Catarina, em que predomina agricultura familiar praticada em pequenas propriedades. As exigências legais determinadas pelo Código Florestal brasileiro de 1965 são apresentadas frente às limitações para atendimento da lei impostas por fatores culturais, do meio físico e do tamanho das propriedades agrícolas. Para ilustração do problema, são confrontadas as duas correntes preponderantes no debate a respeito da utilização de áreas ripárias em Santa Catarina: aplicação dos dispositivos legais existentes versus flexibilização da lei para atender usos atuais em áreas de preservação permanente.
Velhice e analfabetismo, uma relação paradoxal: a exclusão educacional em contextos rurais da região Nordeste
Authors: Peres Marcos Augusto de Castro
Published: March 2012

Este artigo procura analisar a relação entre velhice e analfabetismo na região Nordeste do Brasil, especialmente em duas áreas: o semiárido do Rio Grande do Norte e a zona cacaueira do Sul da Bahia. De acordo com o Censo 2010 do IBGE, é na região Nordeste onde se verificam os maiores índices de analfabetismo do país. O problema do analfabetismo atinge principalmente as populações mais idosas, de cor negra e parda, do sexo feminino, e os residentes nas áreas rurais. A relação existente entre latifúndio e analfabetismo explica, em parte, a maior incidência desse problema na região Nordeste, onde há maior concentração de renda e também da propriedade rural. A inexistência, no Brasil, de políticas educacionais direcionadas à velhice e ao analfabetismo pode ser observada na ausência dessas questões nas leis específicas, como a LDB (da educação) e o Estatuto do Idoso (da velhice). Por fim, a compreensão da problemática sob a ótica da Sociologia representa contribuição teórica relevante para os estudos educacionais.
Quantifying morphological change during an evolutionary radiation of Devonian trilobites
Authors: Abe Francine R. , Lieberman Bruce S.
Published: March 2012

The fossil record provides an important source of data on adaptive radiations, and indeed some of the earliest theoretical insights on the nature of these radiations were made by paleontologists. Here we focus on the diverse DevonianMetacryphaeusgroup calmoniid trilobites, known from the Malvinokaffric Realm, which have been considered a classic example of an adaptive radiation preserved in the fossil record. We use a geometric morphometric analysis in conjunction with phylogenetic and biogeographic patterns and data on speciation rates. Using ancestral character state reconstruction during speciation events, we quantify patterns of morphological change in order to assess the role ecological and geographical factors may have played in mediating this radiation. We found no significant differences between the amount of morphological change that occurred during speciation events when ancestors and descendants were in the same area as opposed to when they occupied different areas. Further, the magnitude of morphological divergence did not change through time or with cladogenetic rank. These patterns, in conjunction with the fact that the radiation occurs in a geographically heterogeneous region subjected to repeated episodes of sea-level rise and fall, suggest that at the macroevolutionary scale this radiation may have been motivated more by phenomena that facilitated geographic isolation than by competition.
Confidence intervals for the duration of a mass extinction
Authors: Wang Steve C. , Zimmerman Aaron E. , McVeigh Brendan S. , Everson Philip J. , Wong Heidi
Published: March 2012

A key question in studies of mass extinctions is whether the extinction was a sudden or gradual event. This question may be addressed by examining the locations of fossil occurrences in a stratigraphic section. However, the fossil record can be consistent with both sudden and gradual extinctions. Rather than being limited to rejecting or not rejecting a particular scenario, ideally we should estimate therangeof extinction scenarios that is consistent with the fossil record. In other words, rather than testing the simplified distinction of “sudden versus gradual,” we should be asking, “How gradual?”

In this paper we answer the question “How gradual could the extinction have been?” by developing a confidence interval for the duration of a mass extinction. We define the duration of the extinction as the time or stratigraphic thickness between the first and last taxon to go extinct, which we denote by Δ. For example, we would like to be able to say with 90% confidence that the extinction took place over a duration of 0.3 to 1.1 million years, or 24 to 57 meters of stratigraphic thickness. Our method does not deny the possibility of a truly simultaneous extinction; rather, in this framework, a simultaneous extinction is one whose value of Δ is equal to zero years or meters.

We present an algorithm to derive such estimates and show that it produces valid confidence intervals. We illustrate its use with data from Late Permian ostracodes from Meishan, China, and Late Cretaceous ammonites from Seymour Island, Antarctica.
Mapping where ecologists work: biases in the global distribution of terrestrial ecological observations
Authors: Martin Laura J , Blossey Bernd , Ellis Erle
Published: March 2012

Although the geographical context of ecological observations shapes ecological theory, the global distribution of ecological studies has never been analyzed. Here, we document the global distribution and context (protected status, biome, anthrome, and net primary productivity) of 2573 terrestrial study sites reported in recent publications (2004–2009) of 10 highly cited ecology journals. We find evidence of several geographical biases, including overrepresentation of protected areas, temperate deciduous woodlands, and wealthy countries. Even within densely settled or agricultural regions, ecologists tend to study “natural” fragments. Such biases in trendsetting journals may limit the scalability of ecological theory and hinder conservation efforts in the 75% of the terrestrial world where humans live and work.
Communicating HSE to a New Generation
Authors: López Juan Carlos
Published: April 2012

Traditional means of communicating health, safety and environment (HSE) issues to a company workforce include alerts explaining accidents, stand-downs, magazines, celebrations, award ceremonies and HSE notice boards. The author values such tools, but believes their effectiveness can be limited, particularly in working environments that often involve employees of a wide diversity of cultures, languages and backgrounds. The author also considers that companies would benefit from adapting their communication strategies to mechanisms such as blogs, interactive video clips, and games, which are routinely used by, and are popular with, new generations of employees.

This paper describes initiatives implemented in an oilfield services company and the results, and concludes with proposed recommendations to improve the effectiveness of HSE communications to field employees. The main conclusion is that the more involved employees feel the more chance there is to learn from the message. In addition, no communication tool can replace the power of a manager taking the time to have face-to-face open and honest discussions with employees.
Air Emission Reduction and Zero Flaring and Venting
Authors: Mian Mahboob , Al Qubaisi Nawal
Published: April 2012

Gas Processing Facility (GPF) project achieved Zero flaring

1.7million standard cubic feet per day (41.65 tons) gas recovered thru Vapor Recovery System and protect the environment by reducing;

Vapor Recovery Unit (VRU):

Under this unit, gases from the Tertiary Ethyl Glycol (TEG)Dehydration package and vents from compressors dry gas seals are recovered/captured and compressed in the VRU and then sent to the suction for the main gas compressor for reuse instead of going to flare

Gas Processing Project (GPF) at Zakum complex is a new gas treatment platform that will augment the existing gas processing capacity of the Zakum West Super Complex. It will increase the associated gas production from Zakum oilfield. The beauty of this project is that ADMA has employed the Zero flaring policy. There will be no flaring at all at this platform. This is one of the unique project of its nature in the ADNOC group of companies, even in Emirates and could be in the whole middle east where is there would be NO flaring. We have designed flare as well in this project but that would be used only for emergencies.

GPF is a stand alone platform with independent utilities and support facilities. The GPF platform is 67.5 meter in length and 43 meters in width. GPF is located at Zakum oilfield, offshore facility about 65 kilometer Northwest of Abu Dhabi. This platform has three main decks, cellar, mezzanine and main. The flare structure consists of a 120 meter long flare bridge with a 80m above sea level angled boom. The distance from the flare tip to the GPF platform is150 m.

There will not be any flaring during normal operation of the GPF, as Zero flaring technology is installed. Hydrocarbon from the GPF platform will be recovered using a Vapour Recovery Unit (VRU) facility. Flaring will only be undertaken during emergency conditions.
How We Attain and Sustain Work-life Balance?
Authors: Burton Sharon
Published: April 2012

When we consider the issue of work-life balance everyone questioned will have a different opinion dependant on but not limited to: their work ethics, money, family, culture and job role. In other words what you consider a good work-life balance will not be the same as someone else. So from a corporate point of view how does a company make sure it's employees are getting that balance?

Work-life balance affects the productivity and creativity of employees. Employers that support this balance show lower numbers leaving their organisation, employees who have greater pride in their company, a willingness to recommend it as a place to work and higher overall job satisfaction. As well as benefit packages Employers offer a variety of different incentives to their employees: unsociable hours pay; compensation leave for time away from home; overtime pay; gyms at work and some companies also provide crèches. So work and home begin to blend, in fact with modern technology we never truly disconnect from work, the flashing light on a Blackberry is hypnotic and begs to be looked at. At what point is it acceptable to turn it off? An evening out? At the weekend? On holiday?

To strike the right balance Employers can offer a range of different programs and initiatives, such as flexible working arrangements and telecommuting work. More proactive employers can provide compulsory leave periods, strict maximum hours and foster an environment that encourages employees not to continue working after hours. Studies show that the solution to balance lies in four components: work, home, community and self. This paper will look at the latest research into work-life balance, to attempt to discern what both employer and employee can do to achieve it and maintain it.
Saudi Aramco's Ambient Air Quality and Source Emission Milestone: Achieving Zero Hydrocarbon Discharge in On Shore Oil Operations
Authors: Dashash Alaa , Mashabi Loay , Arnaout Ibrahim , Mulhim Abdulrahman , Jasim Ali
Published: April 2012

Saudi Aramco is committed to environment protection and minimizing its environmental footprint. The company environmental protection policy states: "The Company will sure that its operations do not create undue risks to the environment or public health, and will conduct its operations with full concern for the protection of the land, air and water from harmful pollution. The Company will promote environmentally sound waste disposal practices and cost effective waste minimization through source reduction, reuse, and recycling". Saudi Aramco introduced ambient air quality monitoring to Saudi Aramco since the early 1970's. This process was automated and improved as the technology advanced in that field. Many advanced technologies are used to measure or control the level of air pollutants emitted to the atmosphere from Saudi Aramco's industrial facilities. This paper explains the efforts towards eliminating any footprint on air quality by achieving zero hydrocarbon discharge during necessary flow back operations. It describes the evaluation of several alternatives while utilizing phase separators, sand filters, cyclones, surge tanks, high-pressure and low-pressure pumps/compressors to come up with a feasible, reliable and safe discharge system.
Pareto-optimality and a search for robustness: choosing solutions with desired properties in objective space and parameter space
Authors: Dumedah Gift , Berg Aaron A. , Wineberg Mark
Published: April 2012

Multi-objective genetic algorithms are increasingly being applied to calibrate hydrological models by generating several competitive solutions usually referred to as a Pareto-optimal set. The Pareto-optimal set comprises non-dominated solutions at the calibration phase but it is usually unknown whether all or only a subset of non-dominated solutions at the calibration phase remains non-dominated at the validation phase. In practice, users would like to know solutions (and their associated properties) which remain non-dominated at both the calibration and validation phases. This study investigates robustness of the Pareto-optimal set by developing a model characterization framework (MCF). The MCF uses cluster analysis to examine the distribution of solutions in parameter space and objective space, and conditional probability to combine linkages between the distributions of solutions in both spaces. The MCF has been illustrated for calibration output generated from application of the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II to calibrate the Soil and Water Assessment Tool for streamflow in the Fairchild Creek watershed in southern Ontario. Our results show that not all non-dominated solutions found at the calibration phase perform the same for different validation periods. The MCF illustrates that robust solutions – non-dominated solutions which cluster in similar locations in parameter space and objective space – performed consistently well for several validation periods.
Benchmarking biological nutrient removal in wastewater treatment plants: influence of mathematical model assumptions
Authors: Flores-Alsina Xavier , Gernaey Krist V. , Jeppsson Ulf
Published: April 2012

This paper examines the effect of different model assumptions when describing biological nutrient removal (BNR) by the activated sludge models (ASM) 1, 2d & 3. The performance of a nitrogen removal (WWTP1) and a combined nitrogen and phosphorus removal (WWTP2) benchmark wastewater treatment plant was compared for a series of model assumptions. Three different model approaches describing BNR are considered. In the reference case, the original model implementations are used to simulate WWTP1 (ASM1 & 3) and WWTP2 (ASM2d). The second set of models includes a reactive settler, which extends the description of the non-reactive TSS sedimentation and transport in the reference case with the full set of ASM processes. Finally, the third set of models is based on including electron acceptor dependency of biomass decay rates for ASM1 (WWTP1) and ASM2d (WWTP2). The results show that incorporation of a reactive settler: (1) increases the hydrolysis of particulates; (2) increases the overall plant's denitrification efficiency by reducing the SNOx concentration at the bottom of the clarifier; (3) increases the oxidation of COD compounds; (4) increases XOHO and XANO decay; and, finally, (5) increases the growth of XPAO and formation of XPHA,Stor for ASM2d, which has a major impact on the whole P removal system. Introduction of electron acceptor dependent decay leads to a substantial increase of the concentration of XANO, XOHO and XPAO in the bottom of the clarifier. The paper ends with a critical discussion of the influence of the different model assumptions, and emphasizes the need for a model user to understand the significant differences in simulation results that are obtained when applying different combinations of ‘standard’ models.
High-Volume Peritoneal Dialysis in Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Ponce Daniela , Berbel Marina Nogueira , Regina de Goes Cassiana , Almeida Cibele Taís Puato , Balbi André Luís
Published: March 2012

Background and objectives

Peritoneal dialysis is still used for AKI in developing countries despite concerns about its limitations. The objective of this study was to explore the role of high-volume peritoneal dialysis in AKI patients in relation to metabolic and fluid control, outcome, and risk factors associated with death.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

A prospective study was performed on 204 AKI patients who were assigned to high-volume peritoneal dialysis (prescribed Kt/V=0.60/session) by flexible catheter and cycler; 150 patients (80.2%) were included in the final analysis.

Results

Mean age was 63.8±15.8 years, 70% of patients were in the intensive care unit, and sepsis was the main etiology of AKI (54.7%). BUN and creatinine levels stabilized after four sessions at around 50 and 4 mg/dl, respectively. Fluid removal and nitrogen balance increased progressively and stabilized around 1200 ml and −1 g/d after four sessions, respectively. Weekly delivered Kt/V was 3.5±0.68. Regarding AKI outcome, 23% of patients presented renal function recovery, 6.6% of patients remained on dialysis after 30 days, and 57.3% of patients died. Age and sepsis were identified as risk factors for death. In urine output, increase of 1 g in nitrogen balance and increase of 500 ml in ultrafiltration after three sessions were identified as protective factors.

Conclusions

High-volume peritoneal dialysis is effective for a selected AKI patient group, allowing adequate metabolic and fluid control. Age, sepsis, and urine output as well as nitrogen balance and ultrafiltration after three high-volume peritoneal dialysis sessions were associated significantly with death.
Leflunomide Efficacy and Pharmacodynamics for the Treatment of BK Viral Infection
Authors: Krisl Jill C. , Taber David J. , Pilch Nicole , Chavin Kenneth , Bratton Charles , Thomas Beje , McGillicuddy John , Baliga Prabhakar
Published: March 2012

Background and objectives

BK virus is an infection in kidney transplantation patients jeopardizing graft survival. Unfortunately, there is no consensus on treatment of BK viremia and nephropathy. Leflunomide has been studied for the treatment of BK viremia and nephropathy, but there are limited data on the utility of leflunomide therapeutic drug monitoring. This study aimed to determine if a pharmacodynamic relationship exists between BK viral load reduction and leflunomide metabolite, A77 1726, serum concentrations.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

This study was a retrospective, single-center, longitudinal analysis of patients identified with BK viremia with or without nephropathy. Patients were grouped according to whether they received leflunomide. All BK viral PCR and A77 1726 concentrations were analyzed to determine pharmacodynamics, and were correlated with clinical outcomes.

Results

Of 76 patients identified, 52 received leflunomide therapy and 24 did not. Patients who received leflunomide were further analyzed according to A77 1726 concentrations and BK clearance; there was no difference in BK clearance. There was a lack of correlation between A77 1726 concentrations and log change in BK viral PCR concentration. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that mycophenolate mofetil discontinuation, BK viremia without nephropathy, and mean BK viral load were significantly associated with BK viral clearance; leflunomide use lacked this association.

Conclusions

Pharmacodynamic analysis revealed no association between A77 1726 concentrations and BK viral PCR reductions. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that leflunomide therapy was not associated with BK viral clearance. Randomized studies are needed to determine the utility of leflunomide for BK viremia and nephropathy.
Hypothalamic Neuropeptide Y (NPY) Controls Hepatic VLDL-Triglyceride Secretion in Rats via the Sympathetic Nervous System
Authors: Bruinstroop Eveline , Pei Lei , Ackermans Mariëtte T. , Foppen Ewout , Borgers Anke J. , Kwakkel Joan , Alkemade Anneke , Fliers Eric , Kalsbeek Andries
Published: March 2012

Excessive secretion of triglyceride-rich very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL-TG) contributes to diabetic dyslipidemia. Earlier studies have indicated a possible role for the hypothalamus and autonomic nervous system in the regulation of VLDL-TG. In the current study, we investigated whether the autonomic nervous system and hypothalamic neuropeptide Y (NPY) release during fasting regulates hepatic VLDL-TG secretion. We report that, in fasted rats, an intact hypothalamic arcuate nucleus and hepatic sympathetic innervation are necessary to maintain VLDL-TG secretion. Furthermore, the hepatic sympathetic innervation is necessary to mediate the stimulatory effect of intracerebroventricular administration of NPY on VLDL-TG secretion. Since the intracerebroventricular administration of NPY increases VLDL-TG secretion by the liver without affecting lipolysis, its effect on lipid metabolism appears to be selective to the liver. Together, our findings indicate that the increased release of NPY during fasting stimulates the sympathetic nervous system to maintain VLDL-TG secretion at a postprandial level.
Early Postnatal Caloric Restriction Protects Adult Male Intrauterine Growth–Restricted Offspring From Obesity
Authors: Garg Meena , Thamotharan Manikkavasagar , Dai Yun , Thamotharan Shanthie , Shin Bo-Chul , Stout David , Devaskar Sherin U.
Published: March 2012

Postnatal ad libitum caloric intake superimposed on intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with adult-onset obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We hypothesized that this paradigm of prenatal nutrient deprivation–induced programming can be reversed with the introduction of early postnatal calorie restriction. Ten-month-old male rats exposed to either prenatal nutrient restriction with ad libitum postnatal intake (IUGR), pre- and postnatal nutrient restriction (IPGR), or postnatal nutrient restriction limited to the suckling phase (50% from postnatal [PN]1 to PN21) (PNGR) were compared with age-matched controls (CON). Visceral adiposity, metabolic profile, and insulin sensitivity by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps were examined. The 10-month-old male IUGR group had a 1.5- to 2.0-fold increase in subcutaneous and visceral fat (P < 0.0002) while remaining euglycemic, insulin sensitive, inactive, and exhibiting metabolic inflexibility (Vo2) versus CON. The IPGR group remained lean, euglycemic, insulin sensitive, and active while maintaining metabolic flexibility. The PNGR group was insulin sensitive, similar to IPGR, but less active while maintaining metabolic flexibility. We conclude that IUGR resulted in obesity without insulin resistance and energy metabolic perturbations prior to development of glucose intolerance and T2DM. Postnatal nutrient restriction superimposed on IUGR was protective, restoring metabolic normalcy to a lean and active phenotype.
Effect of the velocity-dependent potentials on the energy eigenvalues of the Morse potential
Authors: Soylu Asim , Bayrak Orhan , Boztosun Ismail
Published: March 2012

We investigate the effect of the isotropic velocity-dependent potentials on the bound state energy eigenvalues of the Morse potential for any quantum states. When the velocity-dependent term is used as a constant parameter, ρ(r) = ρ
0, the energy eigenvalues can be obtained analytically by using the Pekeris approximation. When the velocity-dependent term is considered as an harmonic oscillator type, ρ(r) = ρ
0
r
2, we show how to obtain the energy eigenvalues of the Morse potential without any approximation for any n and ℓ quantum states by using numerical calculations. The calculations have been performed for different energy eigenvalues and different numerical values of ρ
0, in order to show the contribution of the velocity-dependent potential on the energy eigenvalues of the Morse potential.
Hard-thermal-loop QCD trace anomaly
Authors: Su Nan
Published: March 2012

In this proceedings I summarize results of QCD trace anomaly from recent three-loop hard-thermal-loop perturbation theory (HTLpt) calculations. I focus on the trace anomaly scaled by T
2 for pure-glue and N
f = 3 QCD. The comparison to available lattice data suggests that for pure-glue QCD agreement between HTLpt results and lattice data for the trace anomaly begins at temperatures above 8 T
c while when including quarks (N
f = 3) agreement begins already at temperatures above 2 T
c. The results in both cases indicate that at very high temperatures the T
2-scaled trace anomaly increases with temperature in accordance with the predictions of HTLpt.
Distribution of phytoplankton community in Kotor Bay (south-eastern Adriatic Sea)
Authors: Drakulović Dragana , Pestorić Branka , Cvijan Mirko , Krivokapić Slađana , Vuksanović Nenad
Published: April 2012

The goal of this paper was to explain variability of phytoplankton in a shallow coastal area in relation to physico-chemical parameters. Temporal variability and composition of phytoplankton were investigated in the Kotor Bay, a small bay located in the south-eastern part of the Adriatic Sea. Samplings were performed weekly from February 2008 to January 2009 at one station in the inner part of the Kotor Bay, at five depths (0 m, 2 m, 5 m, 10 m, 15 m). Phosphates, nitrites and nitrates ranged from values under the level of detection to the maximum values of 1.54, 1.53 and 23.91 µmol l−1, respectively. The phytoplankton biomass — represented by chlorophyll a concentration — ranged from 0.12 to 6.78 mg m−3, reaching a maximum in summer. Diatoms were present throughout the whole sampling period, reaching the highest abundance in March (3.42×105 cells l−1at surface). The peak of dinoflagellates in July (2.2×106 cells l−1 at surface) was due to a single species, Prorocentrum micans. The toxic dinoflagellate Dinophysis fortii occurred at a concentration of 2140 cells l−1 in May. The present results of phytoplankton assemblages and distribution provide valuable information for this part of the south-eastern Adriatic Sea where data is currently absent.
Suggestions From the Field for Return to Sports Participation Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Basketball
Authors: Waters Eric
Published: March 2012

Synopsis

The purpose of this paper is to outline the final, functional phases of rehabilitation that address exercises, drills, and return-to-play criteria for the sport of basketball, following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. ACL injuries can be debilitating and affect the quality of life for recreational and elite athletes alike. Tears of the ACL are common in both male and female basketball players, with a higher incidence rate in females. Incidence of a retear to the existing graft or contralateral knee within 5 years of ACL reconstruction with patellar tendon autograft in young (less than 18 to 25 years of age), active basketball players can be as high as 52%. Reducing the number of ACL injuries or reinjury, of which there are an estimated 80 000 per year at an associated cost of over a billion dollars, can have significant potential long-term fiscal and health benefits. Following surgical reconstruction of the ACL, implementing a tailored rehabilitation protocol can ensure a successful return to sport. When searching the literature for such protocols, clinicians may struggle to find specific exercises, drills, and return-to-play criteria for particular sports. The intent of this manuscript is to present such a rehabilitation protocol for basketball.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 5.
Two Bronze Medals for Switzerland at the 43rd International Chemistry Olympiad in Ankara, Turkey
Authors: Birbaum Karin , Ludwig Peter , Wicky Basile , Vaucher Alain
Published: April 2012

At the 2011 International Chemistry Olympiad in Ankara, with 71 participating countries, Switzerland achieved two bronze medals thanks to two outstanding students.
Release site manipulation to favour European ground squirrel Spermophilus citellus translocations: translocation and habitat manipulation
Authors: Gedeon Csongor István , Boross Gábor , Németh András , Altbäcker Vilmos
Published: March 2012

Translocating European ground squirrels Spermophilus citellus has become a popular conservation tool. However, few release techniques have been carefully evaluated. To contribute to an evidence‐based ground squirrel translocation guide for wildlife managers, we evaluated conditions of habitat manipulation (grass height and artificial burrow entrance angle) which we expected to affect settlement of translocated ground squirrels during the critical period after release. In a field experiment, we translocated 173 individuals in southeastern Hungary in 2007. We released the animals into angled or vertical artificial burrows and manipulated grass height. We found that animals preferred angled (∼ 30°) artificial burrows, which facilitate digging, and medium‐height grass (18 cm ± 1.5). Moreover, although ground squirrels generally are associated with short grass habitats, overhead protection by grasses is valuable after a translocation. This result implies that in order to accomplish a translocation, it is not sufficient to only know the habitat preference of a species in undisturbed situations, but also how and to what extent habitat characteristics should be manipulated to increase the chances of success.
Enhancing the Interpretive Reading and Analytical Writing of Mainstreamed English Learners in Secondary School
Authors: Olson Carol Booth , Kim James S. , Scarcella Robin , Kramer Jason , Pearson Matthew , van Dyk David A. , Collins Penny , Land Robert E.
Published: March 2012

In this study, 72 secondary English teachers from the Santa Ana Unified School District were randomly assigned to participate in the Pathway Project, a cognitive strategies approach to teaching interpretive reading and analytical writing, or to a control condition involving typical district training focusing on teaching content from the textbook. Pathway teachers learned how to use an on-demand writing assessment to help mainstreamed English learners understand, interpret, and write analytical essays. In Year 2, treatment effects were replicated on an on-demand writing assessment (d = .67) and showed evidence of transfer to improved performance on a standardized writing test (d = .10). The results underscore the efficacy of a cognitive strategies reading/writing intervention for mainstreamed English learners (ELs) in the secondary grades.
Phase transformations in non-isothermally annealed as-cast and cold-rolled AlMnScZr alloys
Authors: Vlach Martin , Stulíková Ivana , Smola Bohumil , Císarová Hana , Piešová Jaroslava , Daniš Stanislav , Gemma Ryota , Málek Jaroslav , Tanprayoon Dhritti , Neubert Volkmar
Published: March 2012

The effect of Mn addition on the microstructure, thermal and mechanical properties in as-cast and cold-rolled Al–Sc–Zr alloys was studied. Electrical resistometry, differential scanning calorimetry and microhardness measurements were used. Transmission electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction and X-ray diffraction of specimens quenched from temperatures of pronounced changes in resistivity helped to identify the microstructural processes responsible for resistivity changes. The distinct microhardness increase observed after annealing above ∼320°C is caused by precipitation of the Al3Sc particles. The cold-rolling prior to a heat treatment has no substantial effect on temperature position of the Al3Sc-phase precipitation. The formation of Al6Mn and/or Al6(Mn,Fe) particles is responsible for the intensive resistivity decrease of the cold-rolled materials compared to the as-cast materials. Precipitation of these particles has an insignificant effect on microhardness. The apparent activation energy for the precipitation of the Al3Sc particles was determined.
Strength and water permeability of concrete containing various types of fly ashes and filler material
Authors: Homwuttiwong Sahalaph , Chindaprasirt Prinya , Jaturapitakkul Chai
Published: March 2012

In this study, the strength and water permeability of concretes containing various types of fly ashes and filler material were investigated. Five types of fly ashes with two levels of fineness and ground-river sand were used to partially replace Portland cement at the dosages of 20 and 40% by weight. Results indicated that pulverized coal combustion fly ash produced concrete with good strength and low permeability. Normal fluidized bed combustion fly ashes containing very irregular particles with pores produced concrete with low strength and relatively low permeability. Fly ash from fluidized bed combustion of coal with bio-mass materials and fly ash with high amount of CaO and SO3 produced poor concretes with low strength and high permeability. The increase in fly ash fineness helped improve both strength and permeability of concrete due to the increase in the reactivity of fly ash. Filler material could also be used to replace Portland cement at low replacement level of 20% with small effects on strength and water permeability.
Effect of La3+ on microwave dielectric properties of (Pb1−
x

Ca
x
)(Fe0.5Nb0.5)O3 (x = 0.5–0.6) ceramics
Authors: Yang Qiuhong , Lu Shenzhou , Kim Eung Soo , Jiang Yongchang , Gu Ying
Published: March 2012

Microwave dielectric properties of La3+-doped (Pb1−
x

Ca
x
)(Fe0.5Nb0.5)O3 (x = 0.5–0.6) ceramics were investigated, and a superstructure was detected in these ceramics. The dielectric constant (∊r) and the temperature coefficient of the resonant frequency (TCF) decreased, while the Qf value of the specimens increased with the increase in Ca2+ content. At the same Ca2+ content, the ∊r and Qf values of La3+-doped specimens were much higher than those of undoped ones. This is attributed to the elimination of oxygen vacancies by the solid solution of surplus La3+ with (Pb, Ca)2+. Excellent microwave dielectric properties of Qf
= 6795 GHz, ∊r = 96.41 with TCF = −4.99 ppm · K−1 were obtained at x = 0.55.
Electropulsing-induced phase transformations and their effects on the single point diamond turning of a tempered alloy AZ91
Authors: Zhang Duo , To Suet , Zhu Yao Hua , Wang Hao , Tang Guo Yi
Published: March 2012

The effects of electropulsing on microstructure changes and phase transformations of a tempered Mg-9Al-1Zn alloy sheet were investigated by using X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The results indicate that with increasing frequency of electropulsing, precipitation and decomposition of β-phase were tremendously accelerated sequentially. The effects of electropulsing on single-point diamond turning processing were investigated by examining cutting force and surface roughness variations, and are discussed from the point of view of dislocation dynamics.
On the texture and grain growth in hot-deformed and annealed WE54 alloy
Authors: Azzeddine Hiba , Bradai Djamel
Published: March 2012

A WE54 (Mg–Y–Nd–Zr) magnesium alloy was subjected to uniaxial and plane strain compression at two temperatures (300 and 400°C) and two strain rates (10–4and 10–2s–1). This processing resulted in a relative weakening of the initial strong basal texture of the as-received material. Contrarily to the conventional AZ31 alloy, the deformation texture was more or less insensitive to the processing parameters but depended strongly on the hot deformation type. Annealing treatments at 450°C up to 7 days resulted in normal grain growth. The grain growth annealing caused dissolution of the precipitates that had developed during hot deformation at 300°C. The grain growth kinetics can be described byDn= DRn+ kt, wherenwas found to range between 6 and 11. A net randomization of the texture was evidenced for all the deformation conditions.
Delayed neuromotor recovery and increased memory acquisition dysfunction following experimental brain trauma in mice lacking the DNA repair gene XPA
Authors: Tomasevic Gregor , Laurer Helmut L. , Mattiasson Gustav , Steeg Harryvan , Wieloch Tadeusz , McIntosh Tracy K.
Published: March 2012

Object

This study investigates the outcome after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in mice lacking the essential DNA repair gene xeroderma pigmentosum group A (XPA). As damage to DNA has been implicated in neuronal cell death in various models, the authors sought to elucidate whether the absence of an essential DNA repair factor would affect the outcome of TBI in an experimental setting.

Methods

Thirty-seven adult mice of either wild-type (n = 18) or XPA-deficient (“knock-out” [n = 19]) genotype were subjected to controlled cortical impact experimental brain trauma, which produced a focal brain injury. Sham-injured mice of both genotypes were used as controls (9 in each group). The mice were subjected to neurobehavoral tests evaluating learning/acquisition (Morris water maze) and motor dysfunction (Rotarod and composite neuroscore test), pre- and postinjury up to 4 weeks. The mice were killed after 1 or 4 weeks, and cortical lesion volume, as well as hippocampal and thalamic cell loss, was evaluated. Hippocampal staining with doublecortin antibody was used to evaluate neurogenesis after the insult.

Results

Brain-injured XPA−/− mice exhibited delayed recovery from impairment in neurological motor function, as well as pronounced cognitive dysfunction in a spatial learning task (Morris water maze), compared with injured XPA+/+ mice (p < 0.05). No differences in cortical lesion volume, hippocampal damage, or thalamic cell loss were detected between XPA+/+ and XPA−/− mice after brain injury. Also, no difference in the number of cells stained with doublecortin in the hippocampus was detected.

Conclusions

The authors' results suggest that lack of the DNA repair factor XPA may delay neurobehavioral recovery after TBI, although they do not support the notion that this DNA repair deficiency results in increased cell or tissue death in the posttraumatic brain.