bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Seminole Project: Renewable Energy for Municipal Water Desalination
Authors: Rainwater Ken , Nash Phil , Song Lianfa , Schroeder John
Published: February 2014

This demonstration project addresses the continuing depletion of the Ogallala aquifer, the current principal source of potable ground water for much of the Texas High Plains. The project site is Seminole, Gaines County, Texas. Brackish ground water from the much deeper Santa Rosa aquifer in the Dockum group is produced and treated by reverse osmosis (RO) for potential use in the city's municipal supply. The electrical power for the well pump and RO system is assisted by a 50‐kW wind turbine. Financial support was from the City of Seminole, Department of Energy, Texas Water Development Board, Bureau of Reclamation, Texas Department of Agriculture, and State Energy Conservation Office. The Santa Rosa well and wind turbine were installed in 2011, and the RO system, turbine, well, and related infrastructure were ready for continuous operation in early 2013. A one‐year demonstration will follow to document the seasonal electricity contributions from wind and grid sources.
Estimating the Economic and Social Impacts from the Drought in Southern Colorado
Authors: Bauman Allison , Goemans Christopher , Pritchett James , McFadden Dawn Thilmany
Published: February 2014

Over the course of the 2011 summer, 17 counties in southern Colorado were designated disaster areas due to severe drought conditions. Drought events can have large impacts on the economies of rural communities, not only directly impacting producers, but also having an indirect effect on enterprises and institutions throughout the supply chain. We use an Input‐Output model (I–O), an Equilibrium Displacement Mathematical Programming model (EDMP), and a combination of the two to quantify economic impacts and to compare results across modeling techniques. Combining the two approaches allows for a more realistic representation of the agricultural sector (via EDMP), while still allowing us to model the indirect and induced impacts on the non‐agricultural (via I–O) sectors of the economy. The estimated impact of the drought for the economy of southern Colorado ranges between $83 and $100 million.
Suitability Assessment of Non‐Potable Water to Meet the Electricity Generation Demands in 2030
Authors: Zemlick Katie , Tidwell Vincent C. , Roberts Barry L. , Castillo Cesar R.
Published: February 2014

Large amounts of water are required for electricity generation, and demand for thermoelectric power is predicted to increase significantly over the next several decades. Of concern, is that nearly half of this new demand is in regions currently subject to fresh water shortages due to over‐appropriation, drought, and climatic drivers. This study explores the suitability of using non‐traditional sources of water, namely wastewater and brackish ground water for future thermoelectric cooling in 22 continental Electricity Market Module Regions. Both sources pose unique financial, technical, and management challenges, but are widely available and in the majority of instances economically feasible. While neither resource can meet all future demand by thermoelectric generation, when added to the existing water supply and management portfolio, they provide significant augmentation to existing traditional water supplies.
Water Resources for Algae‐Based Biofuels
Authors: Rastegary Jalal , Shirazi Saeid Aghahossein , Fernandez Tracy , Ghassemi Abbas
Published: February 2014

Adequate energy and available water resources are two of the major requirements for sustaining human progress, yet modern society faces volatile energy availability, prices, and environmental concerns, as well as shortages of drinking water in many parts of the world. Alternative energy produced from biomass such as algae has great potential to utilize sources of water not suitable for consumption. A factorial experiment with CRD (Complete Randomized Design) arrangement was conducted using three growth media: geothermal water, Bold's Basal Medium (BBM), and combination of 50 percent BBM + 50 percent geothermal water. The experiments were conducted utilizing three combinations of illumination periods (12:12, 16:8, and 24:0) to grow the algae Chlorella sorokiniana (UTEX 1230). The results indicated significant differences in biomass production rates. Statistical analysis showed that 50 percent BBM + 50 percent geothermal water with 16:8 light cycle maximized biomass production. The pH in BBM increased from 7 to 10.37 and was significantly higher than both geothermal water (9.06) and 50 percent BBM + 50 percent geothermal water (9.21).
Hierarchical Growth of ZnO Particles by a Hydrothermal Route
Authors: Bamiduro Faith , Ward Michael B. , Brydson Richard , Milne Steven J.
Published: February 2014

The crystallization of ZnO microrods by hydrothermal treatment of a suspension formed from reaction of zinc acetate and sodium hydroxide has been examined using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Polycrystalline hexagonal ZnO microrods first appeared after 0.5 h reaction time at 120°C. These early stage rods were composed of stacks of hexagonal layers, each ~50 nm in thickness containing closely aligned assemblies of nanocrystallites <20 nm in size. Further growth of the microrods involved columns of nanoparticles extending from the basal layers of the preformed hexagonal stacks. Re‐crystallization produced single‐crystal microrods, many of which existed as twin particles.
Statistical Evaluation of Variables Affecting Occurrence of Hydrocarbons in Aquifers Used for Public Supply, California
Authors: Landon Matthew K. , Burton Carmen A. , Davis Tracy A. , Belitz Kenneth , Johnson Tyler D.
Published: February 2014

The variables affecting the occurrence of hydrocarbons in aquifers used for public supply in California were assessed based on statistical evaluation of three large statewide datasets; gasoline oxygenates also were analyzed for comparison with hydrocarbons. Benzene is the most frequently detected (1.7%) compound among 17 hydrocarbons analyzed at generally low concentrations (median detected concentration 0.024 μg/l) in groundwater used for public supply in California; methyl tert‐butyl ether (MTBE) is the most frequently detected (5.8%) compound among seven oxygenates analyzed (median detected concentration 0.1 μg/l). At aquifer depths used for public supply, hydrocarbons and MTBE rarely co‐occur and are generally related to different variables; in shallower groundwater, co‐occurrence is more frequent and there are similar relations to the density or proximity of potential sources. Benzene concentrations are most strongly correlated with reducing conditions, regardless of groundwater age and depth. Multiple lines of evidence indicate that benzene and other hydrocarbons detected in old, deep, and/or brackish groundwater result from geogenic sources of oil and gas. However, in recently recharged (since ~1950), generally shallower groundwater, higher concentrations and detection frequencies of benzene and hydrocarbons were associated with a greater proportion of commercial land use surrounding the well, likely reflecting effects of anthropogenic sources, particularly in combination with reducing conditions.
Variations in maternal 5‐HTTLPR affect observed sensitive parenting
Authors: Cents Rolieke A. M. , Kok Rianne , Tiemeier Henning , Lucassen Nicole , Székely Eszter , Bakermans‐Kranenburg Marian J. , Hofman Albert , Jaddoe Vincent W.V. , van IJzendoorn Marinus H. , Verhulst Frank C. , Lambregtse ‐van den Berg Mijke P.
Published: February 2014

Background

Little is known about the genetic determinants of sensitive parenting. Two earlier studies examined the effect of the serotonin transporter polymorphism (5‐HTTLPR) on sensitive parenting, but reported opposite results. In a large cohort we further examined whether 5‐HTTLPR is a predictor of observed maternal sensitivity and whether observed child social fearfulness moderates the effect of 5‐HTTLPR on maternal sensitivity.

Methods

The population‐based cohort consisted of 767 mother–child dyads. Maternal sensitivity was repeatedly observed at the child's age of 14 months, 36 months and 48 months. Sensitivity was coded using the Ainsworth's rating scales for sensitivity and cooperation and the revised Erickson rating scales for Supportive presence and Intrusiveness. Child social fearfulness was observed using the Stranger Approach episode of the Laboratory Temperament Assessment Battery at 36 months.

Results

Repeated measurement analyses showed a consistent main effect of maternal 5‐HTTLPR on sensitivity; mothers carrying the S‐allele were more sensitive toward their children (p = .005). This effect was not explained by the child's 5‐HTTLPR genotype. We found no evidence that child social fearfulness moderated the effect of 5‐HTTLPR on sensitivity.

Conclusions

This study suggests that variations in maternal 5‐HTTLPR genotype appear to be involved in the etiology of parenting behavior. The observed effects of this genetic variation are consistent with the notion that parenting may have a genetic component, but large studies are needed to find the specific small molecular effects.
Characterizing psychosocial distress in melanoma patients using the expert rating instrument PO‐Bado SF
Authors: Loquai C. , Scheurich V. , Syring N. , Schmidtmann I. , Müller‐Brenne T. , Werner A. , Grabbe S. , Beutel M.E.
Published: February 2014

Background

Although psychosocial distress has been evaluated well in cancer entities like breast or prostate cancer, its impact on melanoma patients still needs to be characterized. The objectives of this study were to (i) evaluate psychosocial distress in melanoma patients using an expert rating instrument [basic documentation for psycho‐oncology short version (PO‐Bado SF)]; (ii) determine associated demographic and clinical variables; and (iii) assess the acceptance of using PO‐Bado SF as a routine procedure in a skin cancer unit.

Methods

A cross‐sectional group of 696 melanoma patients was recruited. During the routine contact, doctors assessed the patients subjective distress using PO‐Bado SF. Sociodemographic data, tumour data, treatment and the course of the disease were extracted from the patients' charts.

Results

PO‐Bado SF was completed in 688 of 696 (99%) participating patients, revealing a high acceptance. In 51 (7%) patients, the PO‐Bado SF cut‐off score indicated the potential need of psychosocial support. Patients with previous or ongoing radiotherapy, a history of major surgery due to organ metastases, younger age and shorter time since diagnosis were considered significantly more distressed than patients without these criteria. Patients were most distressed by suffering from anxiety/worries and/or tensions. In younger patients emotional variables and other problems like social or family problems were deemed more relevant while functional limitations in daily living were reasons for higher distress in older patients.

Conclusion

PO‐Bado SF is a useful, well‐accepted, practical and economic screening tool to identify distressed melanoma patients. Although most melanoma patients seem to cope well with their disease, special attention should be given to young patients in the first years after initial diagnosis and to patients with advanced disease, radiotherapy and major surgery due to their disease. Combination of expert rating tools with self‐report screening instruments could further characterize the specific sources of distress to optimize psychosocial support.
Mitochondrial phylogeography of a Beringian relict: the endemic freshwater genus of blackfish Dallia (Esociformes)
Authors: Campbell M. A. , Lopéz J. A.
Published: February 2014

Mitochondrial genetic variability among populations of the blackfish genus Dallia (Esociformes) across Beringia was examined. Levels of divergence and patterns of geographic distribution of mitochondrial DNA lineages were characterized using phylogenetic inference, median‐joining haplotype networks, Bayesian skyline plots, mismatch analysis and spatial analysis of molecular variance (SAMOVA) to infer genealogical relationships and to assess patterns of phylogeography among extant mitochondrial lineages in populations of species of Dallia. The observed variation includes extensive standing mitochondrial genetic diversity and patterns of distinct spatial segregation corresponding to historical and contemporary barriers with minimal or no mixing of mitochondrial haplotypes between geographic areas. Mitochondrial diversity is highest in the common delta formed by the Yukon and Kuskokwim Rivers where they meet the Bering Sea. Other regions sampled in this study host comparatively low levels of mitochondrial diversity. The observed levels of mitochondrial diversity and the spatial distribution of that diversity are consistent with persistence of mitochondrial lineages in multiple refugia through the last glacial maximum.
Critical role for the AIM2 inflammasome during acute CNS bacterial infection
Authors: Hanamsagar Richa , Aldrich Amy , Kielian Tammy
Published: February 2014

Interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) is essential for eliciting protective immunity during the acute phase of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infection in the central nervous system (CNS). We previously demonstrated that microglial IL‐1β production in response to live S. aureus is mediated through the Nod‐like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, including the adapter protein ASC (apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a caspase‐1 recruitment domain), and pro‐caspase 1. Here, we utilized NLRP3, ASC, and caspase 1/11 knockout (KO) mice to demonstrate the functional significance of inflammasome activity during CNS S. aureus infection. ASC and caspase 1/11 KO animals were exquisitely sensitive, with approximately 50% of mice succumbing to infection within 24 h. Unexpectedly, the survival of NLRP3 KO mice was similar to wild‐type animals, suggesting the involvement of an alternative upstream sensor, which was later identified as absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) based on the similar disease patterns between AIM2 and ASC KO mice. Besides IL‐1β, other key inflammatory mediators, including IL‐6, CXCL1, CXCL10, and CCL2 were significantly reduced in the CNS of AIM2 and ASC KO mice, implicating autocrine/paracrine actions of IL‐1β, as these mediators do not require inflammasome processing for secretion. These studies demonstrate a novel role for the AIM2 inflammasome as a critical molecular platform for regulating IL‐1β release and survival during acute CNS S. aureus infection.

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The AIM2 inflammasome is protective during acute CNS bacterial infection. A disconnect in phenotypes between the inflammasome sensor Nod‐like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) and its adaptor ASC (apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a caspase‐1 recruitment domain) during acute CNS Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infection led to the discovery of absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) as a critical inflammasome sensor. The AIM2 inflammasome is potentially triggered by dsDNA in cells harboring intracellular S. aureus, leading to ASC and caspase 1 recruitment, resulting in pro‐IL‐1β processing and cytokine secretion. This cascade, in turn, is protective to the host during acute infection. The NLRP3 inflammasome is also activated in response to S. aureus challenge by α‐hemolysin (hla); however, it is not critical for host survival. ASC also regulates the production of other inflammatory mediators, presumably via indirect effects mediated by IL‐1β action.
A novel role of suppressor of cytokine signaling‐2 in the regulation of TrkA neurotrophin receptor biology
Authors: Uren Rachel T. , Turbić Alisa , Wong Agnes W. , Klein Reuben , Murray Simon S. , Turnley Ann M.
Published: February 2014

Suppressor of cytokine signaling‐2 (SOCS2) is a regulator of intracellular responses to growth factors and cytokines. Cultured dorsal root ganglia neurons from neonatal mice with increased or decreased SOCS2 expression were examined for altered responsiveness to nerve growth factor (NGF). In the presence of NGF, SOCS2 over‐expression increased neurite length and complexity, whereas loss of SOCS2 reduced neurite outgrowth. Neither loss nor gain of SOCS2 expression altered the relative survival of these cells, suggesting that SOCS2 can discriminate between the differentiation and survival responses to NGF. Interaction studies in 293T cells revealed that SOCS2 immunoprecipitates with TrkA and a juxtamembrane motif of TrkA was required for this interaction. SOCS2 also immunoprecipitated with endogenous TrkA in PC12 Tet‐On cells. Over‐expression of SOCS2 in PC12 Tet‐On cells increased total and surface TrkA expression. In contrast, dorsal root ganglion neurons which over‐expressed SOCS2 did not exhibit significant changes in total levels but an increase in surface TrkA was noted. SOCS2‐induced neurite outgrowth in PC12 Tet‐On cells correlated with increased and prolonged activation of pAKT and pErk1/2 and required an intact SOCS2 SH2 domain and SOCS box domain. This study highlights a novel role for SOCS2 in the regulation of TrkA signaling and biology.

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Neurotrophins such as Nerve growth factor (NGF) are important for the neurite outgrowth and survival of sensory neurons. Increased expression of SOCS2 enhanced NGF‐dependent neurite outgrowth and increased TrkA receptor surface localization in dorsal root ganglion neurons and PC12 cells. This correlated with increased and prolonged activation of pAKT and pErk1/2. In 293T cells SOCS2 was shown to interact with the TrkA receptor in the juxtamembrane region. We thus propose that SOCS2 is a novel regulator of neurotrophin signaling.
Prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity in Chinese rural adults with dental fluorosis
Authors: Zhang Y. , Cheng R. , Cheng G. , Zhang X.
Published: February 2014

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity (DH) among residents of rural China with dental fluorosis aged 30–69 years. A village located in northern China in which dental fluorosis was common was selected. Some 1250 residents with fluorosis ranging in age from 30 to 69 years completed a structured questionnaire and underwent clinical examination. Diagnosis ofDHwas based on the combination of the subject's self‐evaluation and clinical examination. Dental fluorosis was evaluated using Dean's index (DI). In the village, the fluoride concentration in drinking water was 1·15–1·50 mg L−1. The community fluorosis index was 1·47, and 74 (9·7%) of the participants with dental fluorosis were diagnosed withDH. There was no significant difference between men and women.DHwas most commonly observed in the lower incisors, and the most common cause ofDHwas cold stimulation. Logistic regression analysis showed acid reflux to be the only risk factor forDHin the current study. Among subjects withDH, none took treatment measures, visited a hospital or clinic, or used antisensitivity toothpaste. The prevalence ofDHin the selected subjects with dental fluorosis was 9·7%. Acid reflux was found to be a risk factor forDHin the current study.
Microbiopsy a novel sampling technique to early detect dysplastic/malignant alterations in oral mucosal lesions: practicability by general dentists
Authors: Pentenero Monica , Marino Roberto , Tempia Valenta Guido , Navone Roberto , Gandolfo Sergio
Published: February 2014

Background

When used in oral medicine clinics, microbiopsy is able to obtain tissue fragments suitable for a highly sensitive first‐level diagnosis of dysplastic/malignant alterations in oral mucosal lesions. If feasible by general dentists, this sampling technique could reduce the diagnostic delay for oral malignant and premalignant lesions. This study assesses the adequacy of microbiopsy samples when taken by general dentists.

Methods

Fifty dentists, without specific training on oral medicine, volunteered for enrolment. They were given brief training and asked to prospectively sample any mucosal lesion observed during their routine practice. The sample adequacy features were assessed.

Results

The dentists sampled 152 lesions; there were 92.1% of adequate samples (140/152), and the BMZ was visible in 78.6% of these (110/140). Neither the clinical aspect nor lesion site affected either the adequacy or the presence of BMZ.

Conclusions

The high adequacy rate observed and the advantages histological specimens have over cytological ones go to support the feasibility of microbiopsy taken by general dentists for the characterization of oral mucosal lesions and in selecting those requiring further assessment in specialized oral medicine centres.
Melatonin treatment induces interplay of apoptosis, autophagy, and senescence in human colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Hong Yunkyung , Won Jinyoung , Lee Youngjeon , Lee Seunghoon , Park Kanghui , Chang Kyu‐Tae , Hong Yonggeun
Published: February 2014

In Asia, the incidence of colorectal cancer has been increasing gradually due to a more Westernized lifestyle. The aim of study is to determine the interaction between melatonin‐induced cell death and cellular senescence. We treated HCT116 human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells with 10 μm melatonin and determined the levels of cell death‐related proteins and evaluated cell cycle kinetics. The plasma membrane melatonin receptor, MT1, was significantly decreased by melatonin in a time‐dependent manner, whereas the nuclear receptor, RORα, was increased only after 12 hr treatment. HCT116 cells, which upregulated both pro‐apoptotic Bax and anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐xL in the early response to melatonin treatment, activated autophagic as well as apoptotic machinery within 18 hr. Melatonin decreased the S‐phase population of the cells to 57% of the control at 48 hr, which was concomitant with a reduction in BrdU‐positive cells in the melatonin‐treated cell population. We found not only marked attenuation of E‐ and A‐type cyclins, but also increased expression of p16 and p‐p21. Compared to the cardiotoxicity of Trichostatin A in vitro, single or cumulative melatonin treatment induced insignificant detrimental effects on neonatal cardiomyocytes. We found that 10 μm melatonin activated cell death programs early and induced G1‐phase arrest at the advanced phase. Therefore, we suggest that melatonin is a potential chemotherapeutic agent for treatment of colon cancer, the effects of which are mediated by regulation of both cell death and senescence in cancerous cells with minimized cardiotoxicity.
Topical treatment with probiotic Lactobacillus brevis CD2 inhibits experimental periodontal inflammation and bone loss
Authors: Maekawa T. , Hajishengallis G.
Published: February 2014

Background and Objective

An increasing body of evidence suggests that the use of probiotic bacteria is a promising intervention approach for the treatment of inflammatory diseases with a polymicrobial etiology. The objective of this study was to determine whether Lactobacillus brevis CD2 could inhibit periodontal inflammation and bone loss in experimental periodontitis.

Material and Methods

Periodontitis was induced by placing a silk ligature around the second maxillary molar of mice treated with L. brevis CD2 (8 × 105 CFU in 1 mm2 lyopatch) or placebo, which were placed between the gingiva and the buccal mucosa near the ligated teeth.

The mice were killed after 5 d and bone loss was measured morphometrically, gingival expression of proinflammatory cytokines was determined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and CFU counts of periodontitis‐associated bacteria were determined after aerobic and anaerobic culture. To determine the role of arginine deiminase released by L. brevis CD2, soluble extracts with or without formamidine (arginine deiminase inhibitor) were tested in in vitro cellular activation assays.

Results

Mice topically treated with L. brevis CD2 displayed significantly decreased bone loss and lower expression of tumor necrosis factor, and interleukin‐1β, ‐6 and ‐17A as compared to placebo‐treated mice. Moreover, L. brevis CD2‐treated mice displayed lower counts of anaerobic bacteria but higher counts of aerobic bacteria than placebo‐treated mice. In in vitro assays, the anti‐inflammatory effects of soluble L. brevis CD2 extracts were heavily dependent on the presence of functional arginine deiminase, an enzyme that can inhibit nitric oxide synthesis.

Conclusion

These data provide proof‐of‐concept that the probiotic L. brevis CD2 can inhibit periodontitis through modulatory effects on the host response and the periodontal microbiota.
Diabetic characteristics and alveolar bone loss in streptozotocin‐ and streptozotocin‐nicotinamide‐treated rats with periodontitis
Authors: Kim J‐H. , Lee D‐E. , Choi S‐H. , Cha J‐H. , Bak E‐J. , Yoo Y‐J.
Published: February 2014

Background and Objective

Experimental models showing variable diabetic status are necessary to understand the relationship between diabetes and periodontitis. The streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetes model allows control of diabetic status by nicotinamide (NA), which protects against STZ‐induced β‐cell necrosis. Therefore, we compared diabetic characteristics and alveolar bone loss in STZ‐ and STZ‐NA‐treated rats with periodontitis.

Material and Methods

STZ‐treated rats were generated by intravenous (IV) administration of STZ (50 mg/kg). STZ‐NA‐treated rats were induced by intraperitoneal administration of NA (270 mg/kg) 15 min before IV administration of STZ (65 mg/kg). Periodontitis was induced by ligature around the left mandibular first molar 1 wk after injection. Blood glucose level, glucose tolerance and serum insulin levels were determined at day 0 and/or 20 after ligature. At day 20, tibia bone loss was assessed using micro‐computed tomography and hematoxylin and eosin staining. Alveolar bone loss was histologically measured as the distance of the cementoenamel junction to the alveolar bone crest in distal and the percentage of periodontal ligament area in the first molar furcation, respectively. The number of inflammatory cells, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa‐B ligand (RANKL)‐positive cells and the area of osteoid were determined.

Results

In STZ‐treated rats, obvious hyperglycemia over 300 mg/dL and severe body weight loss were observed. The insulin level was approximately 14% compared to that of control rats. STZ‐NA‐treated rats were impaired in glucose tolerance compared to control rats; however, body weight and insulin levels were not significantly different. Tibia bone loss was increased in STZ‐treated rats, but significant change was not observed in STZ‐NA‐treated rats compared to control rats. In ligatured teeth, alveolar bone loss was increased in both STZ‐ and STZ‐NA‐treated rats compared to control rats. Alveolar bone loss, the number of inflammatory cells and RANKL‐positive cells in STZ‐treated rats were greater than in STZ‐NA‐treated rats. The area of osteoid decreased in STZ‐treated rats compared to control, but not STZ‐NA‐treated rats.

Conclusion

These results indicate that STZ‐ and STZ‐NA‐treated rats exhibit diabetic characteristics similar to type 1 diabetes mellitus and a pre‐diabetic state, respectively. In addition, alveolar bone loss in response to periodontitis and tibia loss depend on diabetic status. Diabetic status‐dependent bone remodeling imbalance and inflammation could affect the alveolar bone loss in the two models. Both STZ‐ and STZ‐NA‐treated rats may be useful to investigate differences in periodontitis sensitivity associated with diabetic status and to develop therapeutic agents for periodontitis in patients with diabetes.
A Profile of Farmers and Other Employed Canadians With Chronic Back Pain: A Population‐Based Analysis of the 2009‐2010 Canadian Community Health Surveys
Authors: Trask Catherine , Bath Brenna , McCrosky Jesse , Lawson Josh
Published: February 2014

Purpose

Chronic back disorders (CBDs) are a serious public health issue, both in the general population and among farmers. However, it is not clear whether all individuals with CBD should be treated the same, or if some subpopulations have special needs. This study's purpose was to determine the demographic, socioeconomic, co‐morbidity, and other health characteristics of Canadian farmers and nonfarmers with self‐reported CBD.

Methods

We performed a secondary analysis of the 2009‐2010 Canadian Community Health Survey to develop a profile of adults with CBD comparing farmers (N = 350) to nonfarmer employed persons (N = 11,251). In addition to descriptive analysis, multiple logistic regression was used to control for possible confounding.

Findings

Our results indicate that farmers with CBD are significantly more likely to be older, less educated, and more often male and living rurally than nonfarmers with CBD. We found no difference between rates and type of co‐morbidities between farmers and nonfarmers. However, the sociodemographic differences between farmers and nonfarmers with CBD may impact the design of effective interventions and have implications for health services planning and health care delivery. The information presented is anticipated to help address the identified need for musculoskeletal disorder prevention in agriculture.
Meloxicam pharmacokinetics using nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling in ferrets after single subcutaneous administration
Authors: Chinnadurai S. K. , Messenger K. M. , Papich M. G. , Harms C. A.
Published: February 2014

This study was designed to investigate the pharmacokinetics of meloxicam, an oxicam class, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID), in ferrets. We determined the pharmacokinetic properties of a single subcutaneous dose of meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg) in nine male and nine female ferrets. Blood samples were collected by venipuncture of the cranial vena cava into heparinized syringes. Plasma meloxicam concentrations were determined by high‐pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Pharmacokinetic variables were calculated using nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling to take advantage of the population‐based sampling scheme and to minimize sample volume collected per animal. Maximum plasma concentration, volume of distribution per absorption, and elimination half‐life were 0.663 μg/mL, 0.21 L, and 11.4 h, respectively, for females and 0.920 μg/mL, 0.35 L, and 17.8 h, respectively, for males. Significant differences were found in each of the above parameters between male and female ferrets. Systemic clearance per absorption was not affected by gender and was 13.4 mL/h. Analgesic efficacy was not evaluated, but plasma meloxicam concentrations achieved in these animals are considered effective in other species. Sex differences in the pharmacokinetic behavior of meloxicam should be taken into consideration when treating ferrets.
10Be content in clasts from fallout suevitic breccia in drill cores from the Bosumtwi impact crater, Ghana: Clues to preimpact target distribution
Authors: Losiak Anna , Wild Eva Maria , Michlmayr Leonard , Koeberl Christian
Published: February 2014

Rocks from drill cores LB‐07A (crater fill) and LB‐08A (central uplift) into the Bosumtwi impact crater, Ghana, were analyzed for the presence of the cosmogenic radionuclide 10Be. The aim of the study was to determine the extent to which target rocks of various depths were mixed during the formation of the crater‐filling breccia, and also to detect meteoric water infiltration within the impactite layer. 10Be abundances above background were found in two (out of 24) samples from the LB‐07A core, and in none of five samples from the LB‐08A core. After excluding other possible explanations for an elevated 10Be signal, we conclude that it is most probably due to a preimpact origin of those clasts from target rocks close to the surface. Our results suggest that in‐crater breccias were well mixed during the impact cratering process. In addition, the lack of a 10Be signal within the rocks located very close to the lake sediment–impactite boundary suggests that infiltration of meteoric water below the postimpact crater floor was limited. This may suggest that the infiltration of the meteoric water within the crater takes place not through the aerial pore‐space, but rather through a localized system of fractures.
Exercise test in pediatric renal transplant recipients and its relationship with their cardiac function
Authors: Derakhshan Ali , Derakhshan Dorna , Amoozgar Hamid , Shakiba Mohammad Ali , Basiratnia Mitra , Fallahzadeh Mohammad Hossein
Published: February 2014

Pediatric kidney transplant recipients are at increased risk of CVD. Exercise test is a good method to evaluate exercise capacity, cardiorespiratory fitness, and risk of potential CVDs. The aim of this study was to assess the exercise capacity in this population and determine its relationship with their cardiac function using conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography. Exercise test, conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography were performed on 44 kidney transplant children (age ranging 11–20, 59% male) with acceptable renal function, and the results were compared with their normal healthy counterparts. Our transplant patients achieved significantly lower maximal heart rate, maximal heart rate ratio, total energy expenditure during the exercise, and maximal O2 consumption (Max VO2) than the normal group (p < 0.05). No correlation was found between hemoglobin (Hb) level, dialysis duration, kidney function, and the exercise test parameters. Kidney transplant patients had preserved systolic despite diminished diastolic cardiac function compared to the normal children. Our pediatric renal transplant recipients had severely impaired diastolic dysfunction and significantly reduced MaxVO2 compared with their healthy counterparts. No correlation was found between MaxVO2 and measured indices of systolic and diastolic cardiac function.
Committed Versus Contingent Pricing Under Competition
Authors: Wang Zizhuo , Hu Ming
Published: February 2014

Should capacitated firms set prices responsively to uncertain market conditions in a competitive environment? We study a duopoly selling differentiated substitutable products with fixed capacities under demand uncertainty, where firms can either commit to a fixed price ex ante, or elect to price contingently ex post, e.g., to charge high prices in booming markets, and low prices in slack markets. Interestingly, we analytically show that even for completely symmetric model primitives, asymmetric equilibria of strategic pricing decisions may arise, in which one firm commits statically and the other firm prices contingently; in this case, there also exists a unique mixed strategy equilibrium. Such equilibrium behavior tends to emerge, when capacity is ampler, and products are less differentiated or demand uncertainty is lower. With asymmetric fixed capacities, if demand uncertainty is low, a unique asymmetric equilibrium emerges, in which the firm with more capacity chooses committed pricing and the firm with less capacity chooses contingent pricing. We identify two countervailing profit effects of contingent pricing under competition: gains from responsively charging high price under high demand, and losses from intensified price competition under low demand. It is the latter detrimental effect that may prevent both firms from choosing a contingent pricing strategy in equilibrium. We show that the insights remain valid when capacity decisions are endogenized. We caution that responsive price changes under aggressive competition of less differentiated products can result in profit‐killing discounting.
Ovarian and Hormonal Responses to Follicular Phase Administration of Investigational Metastin/Kisspeptin Analog, TAK‐683, in Goats
Authors: Goto Y , Endo N , Nagai K , Ohkura S , Wakabayashi Y , Tanaka A , Matsui H , Kusaka M , Okamura H , Tanaka T
Published: February 2014

Contents

This study evaluated the effects of follicular phase administration of TAK‐683, an investigational metastin/kisspeptin analog, on follicular growth, ovulation, luteal function and reproductive hormones in goats. After confirmation of ovulation by transrectal ultrasonography (Day 0), PGF2α (2 mg/head of dinoprost) was administered intramuscularly on Day 10 to induce luteal regression. At 12 h after PGF2α administration, intravenous administration of vehicle or 35 nmol (50 μg)/head of TAK‐683 was performed in control (n = 4) and treatment (n = 4) groups, respectively. Blood samples were collected at 6‐h intervals for 96 h and then daily until the detection of subsequent ovulation (second ovulation). After the second ovulation, ultrasound examinations and blood sampling were performed every other day or daily until the subsequent ovulation (third ovulation). Mean concentrations of LH and FSH in the treatment group were significantly higher 6 h after TAK‐683 treatment than those in the control group (12.0 ± 10.7 vs 1.0 ± 0.7 ng/ml for LH, 47.5 ± 28.2 vs 15.1 ± 3.4 ng/ml for FSH, p < 0.05), whereas mean concentrations of oestradiol in the treatment group decreased immediately after treatment (p < 0.05) as compared with the control group. Ovulation tended to be delayed (n = 2) or occurred early (n = 1) in the treatment group as compared with the control group. For the second ovulation, ovulatory follicles in the treatment group were significantly smaller in maximal diameter than in the control group (3.8 ± 0.5 vs 5.4 ± 0.2 mm, p < 0.05, n = 3). Administration of TAK‐683 in the follicular phase stimulates gonadotropin secretion and may have resulted in ovulation of premature follicles in goats.
Multiple Focus Strategies inPro‐Drop Languages: Evidence from Ellipsis in Spanish
Authors: Biezma María
Published: February 2014

In this paper I use the case of Spanish to argue that language regularities may give rise to multiple strategies for marking focus. In addition to the well‐known observation that focus can be marked by word order and intonation, I present experimental results regarding ellipsis that show that overt full DPs in subject position in Spanish are marked as focused. This strategy is linked to a language regularity, namely the availability of silent (pro) subjects. In Spanish, there is a preference forprosubjects. Overt full DPs in subject position are marked, and the presence of overt full DPs is used to indicate focus on the subject (thepro‐drop hypothesis). I will provide a novel syntactic analysis of the ellipsis structures, discuss discourse licensing conditions and present two experiments that investigate preferences in ellipsis resolution and argue in favor of thepro‐drop hypothesis. Experiment 1 compares structural preferences for ellipsis resolution across bare argument ellipsis and replacives, investigating the role of syntax and the information‐structure status of the subject. Experiment 2 compares the resolution of ellipsis with antecedents with overt DP subjects versusprosubjects. The paper also establishes links with the processing of ellipsis in other languages.
Numerical Investigation of Multistaged Tesla Valves
Authors: Thompson S. M. , Paudel B. J. , Jamal T. , Walters D. K.
Published: February 2014

The Tesla valve is a passive-type check valve used for flow control in micro- or minichannel systems for a variety of applications. Although the design and effectiveness of a singular Tesla valve is somewhat well understood, the effects of using multiple, identically shaped Tesla valves in series—forming a multistaged Tesla valve (MSTV)—have not been well documented in the open literature. Therefore, using high-performance computing (HPC) and three-dimensional (3D) computational fluid dynamics (CFD), the effectiveness of an MSTV using Tesla valves with preoptimized designs was quantified in terms of diodicity for laminar flow conditions. The number of Tesla valves/stages (up to 20), valve-to-valve distance (up to 3.375 hydraulic diameters), and Reynolds number (up to 200) was varied to determine their effect on MSTV diodicity. Results clearly indicate that the MSTV provides for a significantly higher diodicity than a single Tesla valve and that this difference increases with Reynolds number. Minimizing the distance between adjacent Tesla valves can significantly increase the MSTV diodicity, however, for very low Reynolds number (Re < 50), the MSTV diodicity is almost independent of valve-to-valve distance and number of valves used. In general, more Tesla valves are required to maximize the MSTV diodicity as the Reynolds number increases. Using data-fitting procedures, a correlation for predicting the MSTV diodicity was developed and shown to be in a power-law form. It is further concluded that 3D CFD more accurately simulates the flow within the Tesla valve over a wider range of Reynolds numbers than 2D simulations that are more commonly reported in the literature. This is supported by demonstrating secondary flow patterns in the Tesla valve outlet that become stronger as Reynolds number increases. Plots of the pressure and velocity fields in various MSTVs are provided to fully document the complex physics of the flow field.
Pneumatic Torsional Actuators for Inflatable Robots
Authors: Sanan Siddharth , Lynn Peter S. , Griffith Saul T.
Published: February 2014

This paper discusses a variety of novel fluidic actuators to generate rotary motion. While pneumatic artificial muscles (PAMs) that can generate linear motion have been researched and developed fairly extensively, little effort has been devoted to develop simple actuators that can provide rotary motion. A variety of possible designs and principles are discussed to achieve such rotary motion, along with accompanying analysis to understand motion and torque characteristics of each actuator. Experiments with prototype actuators validate performance expectations of each design.
Mechanical-Magnetic Coupling Analysis of a Novel Large Stroke Penta-Stable Mechanism Possessing Multistability Transforming Capability
Authors: Zhao Jian , Zhang Yongcun , Huang Yu , Liu Shutian , Chen Guoxi , Gao Renjing , Yang Yintang
Published: February 2014

Considering the nonlinear mechanical-magnetic coupling effects, an accurate mathematical model was established for analyzing large stroke penta-stable mechanism possessing multistability transforming capability, with which the mechanism can be switched from pentastability to quadristability. The multistability with any number of stable states can be achieved by integrating spatially arranged magnets and large deformation beams as the fundamental energy storage elements to maintain stable states. By theoretically analyzing the influence of the large mechanical deformation on the magnetic field distribution and system energy, the nonlinear force–displacement characteristics of the multistable mechanism were obtained numerically, which were in good agreement with those obtained by experiments and finite element simulation. Then, an energy-based design criterion for magnetic-mechanical multistable mechanisms was proposed according to the stability theory and energy variation principle. In addition, the multistable transformability was theoretically analyzed, which can transform the proposed mechanism from penta-stability to quadristability by only changing the magnetization direction of moving magnets without varying the structure parameters.
Topological Chaos by Pseudo-Anosov Map in Cavity Laminar Mixing
Authors: Xu Baiping , Turng Lih-Sheng , Yu Huiwen , Wang Meigui
Published: February 2014

A numerical investigation was carried out to study the mixing behavior of Stokes flows in a rectangular cavity stirred by three square rods. The square loops of the rods move in such a way that a pseudo-Anosov map can be built in the flow domain in the augmented phase space. The finite volume method was used, and the flow domain was meshed by staggered grids with the periodic boundary conditions of the rod motion being imposed by the mesh supposition technique. Fluid particle tracking was carried out by a fourth-order Runge–Kutta scheme. Tracer stretches from different initial positions were used to evaluate interface prediction by a pseudo-Anosov map. The colored short period Poincaré section was obtained to reveal the size of the domain in which the pseudo-Anosov map was in effect. Dye advection patterns were used to analyze chaotic advection of passive tracer particles using statistical concepts such as “variances” and “complete spatial randomness.” For the fluid in the core region of the cavity, tracer interface stretches experienced exponential increases and had the same power index as that predicted by the pseudo-Anosov map matrix.
Damping Pressure Pulsations in a Wave-Powered Desalination System
Authors: Hopkins Brandon J. , Padhye Nikhil , Greenlee Alison , Torres James , Thomas Levon , Ljubicic Dean M. , Kassner Mortiz P. , Slocum Alexander H.
Published: February 2014

Wave-driven reverse osmosis desalination systems can be a cost-effective option for providing a safe and reliable source of drinking water for large coastal communities. Such systems usually require the stabilization of pulsating pressures for desalination purposes. The key challenge is to convert a fluctuating pressure flow into a constant pressure flow. To address this task, stub-filters, accumulators, and radially elastic-pipes are considered for smoothing the pressure fluctuations in the flow. An analytical model for fluidic capacitance of accumulators and elastic pipes are derived and verified. Commercially available accumulators in combination with essentially rigid (and low cost) piping are found to be a cost-effective solution for this application, and a model for selecting accumulators with the required fluidic-capacitance for the intended system is thus presented.
PerR-Regulated Manganese Ion Uptake Contributes to Oxidative Stress Defense in an Oral Streptococcus
Authors: Wang Xinhui , Tong Huichun , Dong Xiuzhu
Published: February 2014

Metal homeostasis plays a critical role in antioxidative stress.
Streptococcus oligofermentans
, an oral commensal facultative anaerobe lacking catalase activity, produces and tolerates abundant H
2
O
2
, whereas Dpr (an Fe
2+
-chelating protein)-dependent H
2
O
2
protection does not confer such high tolerance. Here, we report that inactivation of
perR
, a peroxide-responsive repressor that regulates zinc and iron homeostasis in Gram-positive bacteria, increased the survival of H
2
O
2
-pulsed
S. oligofermentans
32-fold and elevated cellular manganese 4.5-fold.
perR
complementation recovered the wild-type phenotype. When grown in 0.1 to 0.25 mM MnCl
2
,
S. oligofermentans
increased survival after H
2
O
2
stress 2.5- to 23-fold, and even greater survival was found for the
perR
mutant, indicating that PerR is involved in Mn
2+
-mediated H
2
O
2
resistance in
S. oligofermentans
. Mutation of
mntA
could not be obtained in brain heart infusion (BHI) broth (containing ∼0.4 μM Mn
2+
) unless it was supplemented with ≥2.5 μM MnCl
2
and caused 82 to 95% reduction of the cellular Mn
2+
level, while
mntABC
overexpression increased cellular Mn
2+
2.1- to 4.5-fold. Thus, MntABC was identified as a high-affinity Mn
2+
transporter in
S. oligofermentans. mntA
mutation reduced the survival of H
2
O
2
-pulsed
S. oligofermentans
5.7-fold, while
mntABC
overexpression enhanced H
2
O
2
-challenged survival 12-fold, indicating that MntABC-mediated Mn
2+
uptake is pivotal to antioxidative stress in
S. oligofermentans. perR
mutation or H
2
O
2
pulsing upregulated
mntABC
, while H
2
O
2
-induced upregulation diminished in the
perR
mutant. This suggests that
perR
represses
mntABC
expression but H
2
O
2
can release the suppression. In conclusion, this work demonstrates that PerR regulates manganese homeostasis in
S. oligofermentans
, which is critical to H
2
O
2
stress defenses and may be distributed across all oral streptococci lacking catalase.