bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Producción agrícola en la ciudad: edificio agro-productivo vertical en la Quinta Normal como alternativa a la agricultura extensiva tradicional
Authors:   , San Martín Rivas Fernando
Published: May 2024

Para el año 2050 las Naciones Unidas preve que la población mundial alcance los 9.700 millones de personas, aumentando en más de 50% la demanda de alimentos en el mundo. Hoy en día la Organización de las Naciones Unidas para la Alimentación y la Agricultura (FAO) estima que el 95% de nuestros alimentos se produce directa o indirectamente en nuestros suelos (FAO, 2015) pero se estima que el 90% de la tierra cultivable del planeta ya está en uso. En el caso de Chile, si bien convertirse en una potencia alimentaria mundial se constituye en el paradigma de desarrollo del sector agroalimentario hace ya una década, sólo el 6% de la superficie continental del país representa el suelo arable, y de éstas sólo un poco más de 764.000 hectáreas suponen territorios sin limitaciones. Si bien la producción agrícola ha sido relativamente estable y abundante debido a los suelos altamente productivos y el clima templado, no es un hecho que lo seguirá siendo en el futuro debido al cambio climático, la sequía que azota al país, el constante aumento de la población urbana y la disminución de la población campesina, además de la pérdida acelerada de suelos agrícolas por el crecimiento de ciudades e incendios forestales de magnitud. Bajo esta problemática, replantearnos nuevas maneras de producir alimentos bajo la creciente amenaza del cambio climático y la escasez de suelo es un problema evidente al cual hay que dar solución de manera urgente, en donde la arquitectura puede hacer un aporte que no solo se refiera a dar cabida a espacios para producir alimentos, sino que principalmente aportar en el desarrollo de una agricultura sustentable donde se optimice el espacio cultivable de manera vertical y con clima controlado. De este modo, podrían funcionar como una solución práctica para producir más alimentos con menos recursos. En este sentido, en Santiago, el parque Quinta Normal ha sido siempre un espacio experimental desde su creación. Ha vivido varios cambios a lo largo de su historia, reflejando diferentes ideas sobre cómo debería ser la ciudad y ahora la creciente amenaza a la producción de alimentos se vuelve un problema que las ciudades deben enfrentar. Por eso, el parque Quinta Normal, con su trayectoria como espacio experimental, es el lugar ideal para construir un nuevo edificio experimental que de una primera aproximación a la solución de demanda de producción de alimentos en un contexto de un planeta con calentamiento global y pérdida de suelo arable.
Estrategias para la subdivisión predial sostenible en el paisaje rural: nueva ruralidad en el bosque costero valdiviano
Authors:   , Velásquez Araneda María Belén
Published: May 2024

En los últimos años, Chile ha experimentado un potente fenómeno migratorio desde las ciudades hacia las zonas rurales. Este hecho ha generado una fuerte presión en el sector inmobiliario, con un aumento exponencial en el número de parcelas rústicas destinadas a la construcción de viviendas. Los impactos de esta forma de urbanización son múltiples y complejos, incluyendo la pérdida de suelo productivo y de las tradiciones rurales; la desarticulación del espacio urbano; la profunda afectación en la oferta de servicios básicos como el agua potable; y -quizás lo más preocupante- un impacto incuantificable en la biodiversidad del paisaje rural chileno que ha supuesto la deforestación de bosque nativo, la destrucción de humedales y una brutal fragmentación de ecosistemas.Para observar este macro escenario a escala humana, comprenderlo, explicarlo y proyectarlo, se utilizará como caso de estudio el fenómeno de la “Selva Costera Valdiviana”, un territorio que se ha convertido en un lugar de gran interés para construir y vivir debido a sus atractivos paisajísticos y su ubicación privilegiada, bondades que han impulsado una subdivisión descontrolada de sus zonas rurales, trayendo consigo la fragmentación del bosque nativo, comprometiendo la conservación del suelo, vulnerando la población de flora y fauna local, y dañando seriamente los sistema de suministro de agua potable. Todo ello ha perjudicado no solo el potencial turístico de la zona y su belleza escénica, sino también -muy especialmente- la supervivencia de la vida y de las especies endémicas.En este contexto, se advierte el enorme desafió de asegurar el real ejercicio de los derechos consagrados en el artículo 19 de la Constitución Política de Chile: el derecho a la propiedad y el derecho a vivir en un medio ambiente libre de contaminación.En el caso de estudio, así como en los distintos escenarios del fenómeno migratorio a nivel nacional, salta a la vista la aparente incompatibilidad entre el poder efectivo de adquirir y habitar una propiedad, y los daños al medio ambiente causados por los proyectos inmobiliarios que responden a esa prerrogativa.Así las cosas, en este trabajo se propondrán una serie de estrategias de subdivisión predial que tengan en cuenta el paisaje como elemento articulador, que aborden la conservación, la intervención en el territorio, así como la planificación de edificaciones e infraestructuras de manera integral, considerando criterios ecológicos, productivos y comunitarios. Sin falsas pretensiones, esto debería sentar las bases de un modelo de desarrollo de zonas rurales que contribuya a subsanar la defectuosa normativa actual.
Growth, Variability and Decomposition Analysis of Rice in Major States of India
Authors: Rajput Ankita , Chaturvedi Poonam , Verma Anamika , Singh Deeksha
Published: May 2024

The present paper analysed the growth rate and decomposition analysis of area, production and yield of rice in major states of India for the period 2010-11 to 2021-22. The major states included Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab and Tamil Nadu. For the analysis the data was obtained from the official website of DES (Directorate of Economics and Statistics).The findings of the study showed that Tamil Nadu and Punjab were among the high-producing states of India, while decline in area under rice was observed in states like Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Rice area increased for India as a whole during the study period. Variability varied across the states with Tamil Nadu showing highest variability. In West Bengal Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, area and yield effect contributed significantly to output growth. In Andhra Pradesh, area and interaction effect had a negative effect on the output growth. Overall, for the entire nation area, yield and interaction effect had a negative impact on the output growth. The findings of the study suggested that policies should focus on increasing rice area in Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh through improved infrastructure and farmer trainings. To increase the yield, adoption of advanced technologies, improved irrigation facilities and use of high yielding seeds should be encouraged.
Synthesis of Tri‐ or Tetrasubstituted Pyrimidine Derivatives through the [5+1] Annulation of Enamidines with either N,N‐Dimethylformamide Dialkyl Acetals or Orthoesters and Their Application in a Ring Transformation of Pyrimidines to Pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐5‐one Derivatives
Authors: Sasada Toshiaki , Aoki Youichi , Ikeda Reiko , Sakai Norio , Konakahara Takeo
Published: July 2011

The [5+1] annulation of enamidines, which were prepared from functionalized silanes, organolithium compounds and two nitriles, with N,N‐dimethylformamide dialkyl acetals as the C1 unit is described, leading to the synthesis of tri‐ and tetrasubstituted pyrimidine derivatives under catalyst‐ and solvent‐free reaction conditions. Furthermore, the [5+1] annulation of enamidines by using orthoesters as the C1 unit is described, in which catalytic amounts of ZnBr2 catalyze the annulation to produce polysubstituted pyrimidines under toluene or xylene reflux conditions. Moreover, the combination of a reductive ring‐opening reaction with [Mo(CO)6] and a subsequent intramolecular cyclization with tBuOK effectively causes a skeletal transformation from the pyrimidines containing an isoxazolyl and an ethoxy substituent to form pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐5‐one frameworks in excellent yield.
Synthesis and Modification of Silicon Nanosheets and Other Silicon Nanomaterials
Authors: Okamoto Hirotaka , Sugiyama Yusuke , Nakano Hideyuki
Published: July 2011

Silicon nanomaterials and nanostructures exhibit different properties from those of bulk silicon materials based on quantum confinement effects. They are expected to lead to the development of new applications of silicon, in addition to wide use in semiconductor devices. Aside from industrial interest, intriguing issues of academic interest still remain with respect to the origins of their characteristic properties. Zero‐ and one‐dimensional crystalline silicon nanomaterials have been synthesized, to date, by using many methods and there has been rapid progress in size control and modification procedures. However, there have been only a few examples of silicon nanomaterials with atomic‐order thickness akin to carbon nanomaterials, such as two‐dimensional silicon nanosheets. Moreover, mass production of silicon nanomaterials with relatively low cost is not easily achievable, due to the typically severe conditions required for fabrication, such as high temperature and ultralow pressure. Recently, we have developed a soft synthetic method for silicon nanosheets with chemical surface modification in a solution process. This review provides methods for the synthesis and modification of silicon nanosheets and other silicon nanomaterials with examples of their potential applications.
Usefulness of Tissue Doppler Imaging‐Myocardial Performance Index in the Evaluation of Diastolic Dysfunction and Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Kim Hyungseop , Yoon Hyuck‐Jun , Park Hyoung‐Seob , Cho Yun‐Kyeong , Nam Chang‐Wook , Hur Seung‐Ho , Kim Yoon‐Nyun , Kim Kwon‐Bae
Published: July 2011

Background:

In heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF), physiological abnormalities are not solely restricted to diastolic function. Because the tissue Doppler imaging (TDI)‐derived myocardial performance index (MPI) offers the advantage of recording systolic and diastolic tissue velocity simultaneously in the same cardiac cycle, this study aimed to determine whether TDI‐MPI is an informative index for assessing HFPEF, compared with conventional echo parameters.

Hypothesis:

In patients with HFPEF, TDI‐MPI would be an independent predictor for adverse cardiac events.

Methods:

Among 408 patients who had diastolic dysfunction without heart failure (HF) or HFPEF, cardiac function was evaluated by mitral flow (MF) or TDI‐MPI. During the median follow‐up of 32 months, clinical outcomes, which were defined as the composite of cardiovascular death and admission for HF, were assessed.

Results:

Mean MF and TDI‐MPI were significantly greater in the HFPEF group. TDI‐MPI rather than MF had a significant correlation with N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide level. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of TDI‐MPI for the detection of HFPEF was 0.86. With regard to clinical outcomes, 31 events were identified during follow‐up periods. On a multivariate analysis, TDI‐MPI >0.66 was the best prognostic predictor of events and provided incremental predictive value.

Conclusions:

Compared to MF‐MPI, TDI‐MPI may be a more useful parameter for the evaluation of patients with HFPEF. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.
Ultrastructural analysis of spermiogenesis in Rhacophorus arboreus (Amphibia, Anura, Rhacophoridae)
Authors: Muto Kohei , Kubota Hiroshi Y.
Published: July 2011

The spermatozoa of the Japanese green tree frog, Rhacophorus arboreus (Amphibia, Anura, Rhacophoridae), have a characteristic corkscrew‐shaped head and a thick tail that extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the head. We examined the process of spermatogenesis in Rh. arboreus, particularly spermiogenesis, using light and transmission electron microscopy. Spermiogenesis was categorized into the early, mid, and late stages based on the spermatid morphology and their location within the cyst. Early spermatids had a round nucleus and two independent flagella that elongated from a pair of parallel centrioles. The centrioles became embedded in centriolar adjunct material and attached to the nucleus. Then, the flagella were covered with a mantle‐like cytoplasm that contained many microtubules. An acrosome appeared on the pointed side of the slightly elongated nucleus. Mid spermatids had an elongated rod‐like head. As the nucleus elongated, the chromatin fibers became thicker and were arranged parallel to the elongation axis. An elongated acrosome was attached helically along the lateral side of the elongated nucleus. The biflagellate spermatids transformed into monoflagellate spermatids with two axonemes through a process in which the plasma membrane of each flagellum expanded. Late spermatids had a coiled or corkscrew‐shaped head. An acrosome was located on the inside of the coiled cone composed of a nucleus. Parallel microtubules were connected in rows, and then became crystallized in the tail. The present report contains the first morphological description of spermatogenesis in Rhacophorus and suggests that spermiogenesis evolved to adapt to the fertilization environment. J. Morphol., 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MRI‐guided ablation of breast cancer: Where do we stand today?
Authors: Postma Emily L. , van Hillegersberg Richard , Daniel Bruce L. , Merckel Laura G. , Verkooijen Helena M. , van den Bosch Maurice A.A.J.
Published: July 2011

The treatment of patients with localized breast cancer has changed considerably over the past few decades. The next challenge is to use image‐guided minimally invasive tumor ablation techniques. The fact that MRI is the most accurate imaging modality for visualization and delineation of breast tumor margins in three dimensions and provides MRI‐based temperature mapping, makes it particularly applicable for monitoring during minimally invasive ablation techniques. The overall result of the studies performed on MRI‐guided minimally invasive tumor ablation studies are varying, with reported total tumor ablation rates ranging between 20% and 100%. Strict selection of patients, consensus on the treatment zone margin and optimization of MR‐imaging, should make MRI‐guided breast cancer tumor ablation a useful tool in clinical practice. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MR properties of brown and white adipose tissues
Authors: Hamilton Gavin , Smith Daniel L. , Bydder Mark , Nayak Krishna S. , Hu Houchun H.
Published: July 2011

Purpose:

To explore the MR signatures of brown adipose tissue (BAT) compared with white adipose tissue (WAT) using single‐voxel MR spectroscopy.

Materials and Methods:

1H MR STEAM spectra were acquired from a 3 Tesla clinical whole body scanner from seven excised murine adipose tissue samples of BAT (n = 4) and WAT (n = 3). Spectra were acquired at multiple echo times (TEs) and inversion times (TIs) to measure the T1, T2, and T2‐corrected peak areas. A theoretical triglyceride model characterized the fat in terms of number of double bonds (ndb) and number of methylene‐interrupted double bonds (nmidb).

Results:

Negligible differences between WAT and BAT were seen in the T1 and T2 of fat and the T2 of water. However, the water fraction in BAT was higher (48.5%) compared with WAT (7.1%) and the T1 of water was lower in BAT (618 ms) compared with WAT (1053 ms). The fat spectrum also differed, indicating lower levels of unsaturated triglycerides in BAT (ndb = 2.7, nmidb = 0.7) compared with WAT (ndb = 3.3, nmidb = 1.0).

Conclusion:

We have demonstrated that there are several key MR‐based signatures of BAT and WAT that may allow differentiation on MR imaging. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fully automatic geometry planning for cardiac MR imaging and reproducibility of functional cardiac parameters
Authors: Frick Michael , Paetsch Ingo , den Harder Chiel , Kouwenhoven Marc , Heese Harald , Dries Sebastian , Schnackenburg Bernhard , de Kok Wendy , Gebker Rolf , Fleck Eckart , Manka Robert , Jahnke Cosima
Published: July 2011

Purpose:

To establish operator‐independent, fully automated planning of standard cardiac geometries and to determine the impact on interstudy reproducibility of cardiac functional parameters.

Materials and Methods:

Cardiac MR imaging was done in 50 patients referred for left‐ventricular function assessment. In all patients, first standard manual planning was performed followed by automatic planning (AUTO1) and repeat automatic planning (AUTO2) after repositioning the patient to investigate interstudy reproducibility. Cardiac functional parameters were assessed and cine scans were visually graded on a 4‐point scale from nondiagnostic to excellent.

Results:

Overall success rate of AUTO was 94% with good to excellent geometry planning in >94% of cine standard views. Comparing manual versus fully automated planning, a high agreement of cardiac functional parameters (Lin's concordance correlation coefficient, 0.91 to 0.99) with minimal percent bias (0.24 to 3.84%) was found. In addition, a high interstudy reproducibility of automatic planning was demonstrated (Lin's concordance correlation coefficient, 0.89 to 0.99; percent bias, 0.38 to 5.04%; precision, 3.46 to 9.09%).

Conclusion:

Fully automated planning of cardiac geometries could reliably be performed in patients showing a variety of cardiovascular pathologies. Standard cardiac geometries were precisely replicated and functional parameters were highly accurate. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nonenhanced extracranial carotid MR angiography using arterial spin labeling: Improved performance with pseudocontinuous tagging
Authors: Koktzoglou Ioannis , Gupta NavYash , Edelman Robert R.
Published: July 2011

Purpose:

To compare pulsed arterial spin labeling (PASL) and pseudocontinuous arterial spin labeling (PCASL) for nonenhanced extracranial carotid MR angiography (MRA).

Materials and Methods:

Parametric signal equations for PASL and PCASL MRA were formulated and compared. Volunteer imaging (n = 7) at 1.5 Tesla was performed to compare the methods over a broad range of repetition and labeling times. Empirical results were compared with theoretical predictions. The feasibility of the optimal method was investigated in patients (n = 2) with sonographically documented carotid artery disease.

Results:

In volunteers, PCASL provided significantly improved signal than PASL (range: 32–255% improvement; P < 0.01), and better supported the use of long labeling times and short repetition times. Excellent agreement between theory and experiment was found (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.966; P < 0.001). PCASL provided excellent depiction of the carotid arteries in initial patient studies.

Conclusion:

Compared with pulsed tagging, pseudocontinuous tagging provides improved performance for nonenhanced extracranial carotid MRA and warrants further clinical investigation. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kinetic study of OH radical reaction with n‐heptane and n‐hexane at 240–340K using the relative rate/discharge flow/mass spectrometry (RR/DF/MS) technique
Authors: Crawford Mary A. , Dang Bao , Hoang John , Li Zhuangjie
Published: July 2011

The kinetics of reactions of OH radical with n‐heptane and n‐hexane over a temperature range of 240–340K has been investigated using the relative rate combined with discharge flow/mass spectrometry (RR/DF/MS) technique. The rate constant for the reaction of OH radical with n‐heptane was measured with both n‐octane and n‐nonane as references. At 298K, these rate constants were determined to be k1, octane = (6.68 ± 0.48) × 10−12 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 and k1, nonane = (6.64 ± 1.36) × 10−12 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, respectively, which are in very good agreement with the literature values. The rate constant for reaction of n‐hexane with the OH radical was determined to be k2 = (4.95 ± 0.40) × 10−12 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 at 298K using n‐heptane as a reference. The Arrhenius expression for these chemical reactions have been determined to be k1, octane = (2.25 ± 0.21) × 10−11 exp[(−293 ± 37)/T] and k2 = (2.43 ± 0.52) × 10−11 exp[(−481.2 ± 60)/T], respectively. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 43: 489–497, 2011
Patient perceptions of factors leading to spasmodic dysphonia: A combined clinical experience of 350 patients
Authors: Childs Lesley , Rickert Scott , Murry Thomas , Blitzer Andrew , Sulica Lucian
Published: July 2011

Purpose:

Spasmodic dysphonia (SD) is an idiopathic voice disorder that is characterized by either a strained, strangled voice quality or a breathy voice with aphonic segments of connected speech. It has been suggested that environmental factors play a role in triggering the onset. Clinical observation suggests that some patients associate onset with specific events or factors while others do not. The purpose of this study was to examine a large database of SD patients to determine if specific triggers are associated with the onset of SD.

Procedures:

Retrospective chart review.

Results:

A total of 350 charts of patients with SD were identified and were categorized as either “sudden onset” or “gradual onset.” One hundred sixty‐nine recalled their circumstances surrounding onset. Forty‐five percent of these patients described the onset as sudden. Patient perceptions of inciting events in the sudden onset group were identified 77% of the time and 2% of the time in the gradual onset group. The most common factors identified were stress (42%), upper respiratory infection (33%), and pregnancy and parturition (10%).

Conclusions:

Thirty‐five percent of SD patients perceive their disorder to have a sudden onset with identified inciting events. This prevalence raises questions regarding possible behavioral and environmental factors surrounding the onset of this disorder.
Thermal stability of GaAs photoconductive terahertz antenna
Authors: Jia WanLi , Hou Lei , Chen SuGuo , Hu XianJing , Wang ShaoQiang , Shi Wei
Published: July 2011

We tested the THz intensity, current, and temperature of two kinds of antennas. In the experiment, THz intensity of an antenna went down with time. The instability is caused by the local temperature at the electrode gap. This origins from the decline of the steady state mobility. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2393–2395, 2011; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.26232
Novel Pi‐type stepped‐impedance‐stub branch line and its application to dual‐band power divider with high suppression of intermediate frequencies
Authors: Wu Yongle , Liu Yuanan , Li Shulan , Yu Cuiping
Published: July 2011

A novel Pi‐type branch line is constructed by using two shunt stepped‐impedance stubs in this paper. Introducing the stepped‐impedance stubs increases design degrees of freedom of this Pi‐type line. This structure can be used to replace arbitrary single‐section transmission line in microwave components. Meanwhile, by selecting proper parameters according to the given analytical theory, arbitrary dual‐band operations can be realized. To verify the feature of this proposed structure, a dual‐band (1.1 and 1.65 GHz) 3‐dB Wilkinson power divider with measured 50‐dB suppression at the mid band of 1.45 GHz is presented. Finally, experimental results verify the theoretical analysis. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2360–2363, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26266
Breakdown spectroscopy induced by localized microwaves for material identification
Authors: Meir Yehuda , Jerby Eli
Published: July 2011

This letter introduces a localized microwave technique for direct excitation of solid materials for the sake of their identification by atomic emission spectroscopy. The microwave energy is concentrated on the material surface by a microwave‐drill type applicator. The evolved ∼1‐mm3 hotspot is slightly evaporated and excited as plasma. An optical spectrometer measures the atomic emission spectrum, hence enabling the material identification as in the known laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) technique. The experimental results demonstrate the conceptual feasibility of the localized microwave‐induced breakdown spectroscopy as a low‐cost substitute for the laser‐based LIBS for material identification in scenarios in which a direct contact with the material to be identified and its slight destruction are permitted. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2281–2283, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26272
Factors influencing women's participation in urogynecology research in the UK and USA
Authors: Bakali Evangelia , Gafni‐Kane Adam , Botros Sylvia , Tincello Douglas G.
Published: July 2011

Aims

To explore factors influencing willingness to participate in urogynecology trials and explore associations between demographics, quality of life score (ICIQ‐SF), and willingness to participate.

Methods

The Bladder Clinic Questionnaire (BCQ) was developed, piloted, and validated. The BCQ and ICIQ‐SF were distributed to women attending urogynecologists in tertiary referral centers in the UK and USA. The BCQ collected demographic data and data on previous involvement in research and posed eight research scenarios. Women were asked to record their willingness to participate on a Likert scale, collapsed for analysis into “any yes,” “unsure,” or “any no,” giving a BCQ score between 0 and 16 (higher scores indicating greater willingness).

Results

Two hundred sixty‐seven UK women and 200 US women returned completed questionnaires. Median BCQ score differed between UK and US women (11 [0–16] vs. 10 [0–16]; P = 0.004); median ICIQ score was similar (9 [0–21] vs. 9 [0–20]). ICIQ score was higher in UK women willing to participate in two scenarios: standard operation versus new operation (P = 0.007), and new operation versus new operation (P = 0.001). UK women were uniformly more willing to take part in all scenarios involving established treatments.

Conclusion

We identified cultural differences in willingness to participate and differences depending on type of intervention proposed which supports the growing evidence that detailed pilot work is required during planning of intervention studies. Neurourol. Urodynam. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30: 1462–1466, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Activation of the striated urethral sphincter to maintain continence during dynamic tasks in healthy men
Authors: Stafford Ryan E. , Ashton‐Miller James A. , Sapsford Ruth , Hodges Paul W.
Published: July 2011

Aims

Function of the striated urethral sphincter (SUS) in men is debated. Current evidence is limited to electromyographic (EMG) recordings made with concentric needle electrodes in supine. Understanding of SUS function requires investigation of SUS EMG activity using new recording techniques in dynamic tasks. The aim of this study was to evaluate timing and amplitude of SUS EMG at rest and during dynamic tasks that challenge continence by increasing intra‐abdominal pressure (IAP).

Methods

Investigative study of five healthy men aged 25–39 years. Measurements included SUS, anal sphincter (AS), and transversus abdominus (TrA) EMG, and IAP (recorded with a nasogastric pressure catheter). Participants performed four tasks that challenged postural control in standing (single and repetitive arm movement, stepping and load catching).

Results

IAP amplitude and SUS activity were linearly correlated during repetitive arm movement (R2: 0.67–0.88). During stepping SUS EMG onset preceded the IAP increase, but followed it with rapid arm movements. When the trunk was loaded unpredictably onset of SUS generally followed the increase in IAP. The modest sample size meant only younger men were tested. Future studies might investigate healthy older men or those with certain pathologies.

Conclusions

Data show that SUS activity increases proportionally with IAP. This provided evidence that SUS contributes to continence when IAP is increased, and that postural control of the trunk involves activation of this muscle. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:36–43, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A galenical of traditional chinese herbal mixture (THC‐002) reduces expression of tachykinin peptides within urethras of spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Ishikawa Masakuni , Imamura Tetsuya , Ishizuka Osamu , Kurizaki Yoshiki , Noguchi Wataru , Zhang Lei , Nishizawa Osamu
Published: July 2011

Aims

We investigated expression of tachykinin peptides neurokinin A, neurokinin B, and substance P within urethras of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and determined if a traditional Chinese herbal mixture, THC‐002, decreased them.

Methods

Ten‐ and 40‐week‐old male SHRs were randomly separated into three groups (n = 12 each). Rats of one group were given orally 20 ml 0.9% NaCl solution per kg body weight daily for 1 week. One hour later, each received a similar volume of water. Rats in the second group were also given saline. One hour later, each received 20 mg THC‐002 per kg body weight. The third group was untreated. The urethras were removed and separated into prostatic and non‐prostatic regions and analyzed by real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (n = 6) and immunohistochemistry (n = 6).

Results

In 40‐week‐old untreated SHRs, neurokinin B mRNA and protein, and substance P mRNA in prostatic urethras were significantly higher compared to the 10‐week‐old ones. Neurokinin A mRNA and protein, and substance P protein of the 40‐week‐old saline‐loaded prostatic urethras were significantly higher compared to the 40‐week‐old untreated ones. In 40‐week‐old untreated SHRs, the non‐prostatic urethral neurokinin B protein was significantly higher compared to the 10‐week‐old ones. In 40‐week‐old, saline‐loaded SHRs, neurokinin A protein of the non‐prostatic urethras was significantly higher compared to 40‐week‐old the untreated ones. In 40‐week‐old SHRs, THC‐002 significantly decreased the expression of the urethral tachykinins, except for non‐prostatic urethral neurokinin A mRNA.

Conclusions

Aging and saline‐loading increased the expression of urethral tachykinin mRNAs and peptides. THC‐002 partially decreased them. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:201–206, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improving voiding efficiency in the diabetic rat by a 5‐HT1A serotonin receptor agonist
Authors: Gu Baojun , Wu Gang , Si Jieming , Xu Yuemin , Andersson Karl‐Erik
Published: July 2011

Aims

Serotonin affects micturition in the normal rat through actions not only on ascending and descending spinal pathways and supraspinal centers but also on the lumbosacral spinal cord level. The selective 5‐HT1A receptor agonist, 8‐OH‐DPAT((R)‐(+)‐8‐hydroxy‐2‐(di‐n‐propylamino) tetralin), reversed detrusor‐sphincter dyssynergia (DSD) in the spinal cord injury (SCI) rat. Rats with experimental diabetes mellitus (DM) have been shown to have both bladder and urethral dysfunction during reflex voiding. We therefore examined the effects of 8‐OH‐DPAT on micturition in DM rats.

Methods

Female Sprague–Dawley rats were used. DM was induced by an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 65 mg/kg) and a cystometric study was performed 8 weeks post‐injection. External urethral sphincter electromyography (EUS‐EMG) was also measured. The 5‐HT1A antagonist WAY‐100635(N‐tert‐butyl‐3‐(4‐(2‐methoxyphenyl)‐piperazin‐1‐yl)‐2‐phenylpropanamide) was administered after each 8‐OH‐DPAT dose–response.

Results

Compared to controls, DM rats had a higher bladder capacity, residual volume, and a lower voiding efficiency. In DM rats, 8‐OH‐DPAT (3–1,000 µg/kg, i.v.) induced significant dose‐dependent increases in micturition volume, and decreases in residual volume, resulting in increases in voiding efficiency. During the micturition, there was a dose‐dependent increased phasic EUS activity correlated with the improved voiding efficiency. WAY‐100635 (300 µg/kg, i.v.) reversed the 8‐OH‐DPAT‐induced changes.

Conclusions

Both the bladder voiding efficiency and the periodic EUS activity were decreased in DM rats. 5‐HT1A receptor agonism promoted periodic EUS activity, thereby improving voiding efficiency. Whether or not these results may have implications for the future treatment of voiding dysfunction in DM patients remains to be studied. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:168–173, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A prospective study to determine the costs incurred by families of children newly diagnosed with cancer in Ontario
Authors: Tsimicalis Argerie , Stevens Bonnie , Ungar Wendy J. , McKeever Patricia , Greenberg Mark , Agha Mohammad , Guerriere Denise , Barr Ronald , Naqvi Ahmed , Moineddin Rahim
Published: July 2011

Objectives

A diagnosis of cancer in childhood places a considerable economic burden on families, although costs are not well described. The objectives of this study were to identify and determine independent predictors of the direct and time costs incurred by such families.

Methods

A prospective, cost‐of‐illness study was conducted in families of children newly diagnosed with cancer. Parents recorded the resources consumed and costs incurred during 1 week per month for three consecutive months beginning the fourth week following diagnosis and listed any additional costs incurred since then. Descriptive and multiple regression analyses were performed to describe families' costs (expressed in 2007 Canadian dollars) and to determine direct and time cost predictors.

Results

In total, 28 fathers and 71 mothers participated. The median total direct and time costs in 3 months were $CAD3503 and $CAD23 130, respectively, per family. The largest component of direct costs was travel and of time costs was time allocated previously for unpaid activities. There were no statistically significant predictors of direct costs. Six per cent of the variance for time costs was explained by language spoken at home.

Conclusions

Families of children with cancer are confronted with a wide range of direct and time costs, the largest being travel and time allocated previously for unpaid activities. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thiol‐exchange in DTSSP crosslinked peptides is proportional to cysteine content and precisely controlled in crosslink detection by two‐step LC‐MALDI MSMS
Authors: Lambert Wietske , Söderberg Christopher A. G. , Rutsdottir Gudrun , Boelens Wilbert C. , Emanuelsson Cecilia
Published: July 2011

The lysine‐specific crosslinker 3,3′‐dithiobis(sulfosuccinimidylpropionate) (DTSSP) is commonly used in the structural characterization of proteins by chemical crosslinking and mass spectrometry and we here describe an efficient two‐step LC‐MALDI‐TOF/TOF procedure to detect crosslinked peptides. First MS data are acquired, and the properties of isotope‐labeled DTSSP are used in data analysis to identify candidate crosslinks. MSMS data are then acquired for a restricted number of precursor ions per spot for final crosslink identification. We show that the thiol‐catalyzed exchange between crosslinked peptides, which is due to the disulfide bond in DTSSP and known to possibly obscure data, can be precisely quantified using isotope‐labeled DTSSP. Crosslinked peptides are recognized as 8 Da doublet peaks and a new isotopic peak with twice the intensity appears in the middle of the doublet as a consequence of the thiol‐exchange. False‐positive crosslinks, formed exclusively by thiol‐exchange, yield a 1:2:1 isotope pattern, whereas true crosslinks, formed by two lysine residues within crosslinkable distance in the native protein structure, yield a 1:0:1 isotope pattern. Peaks with a 1:X:1 isotope pattern, where 0 < X < 2, can be trusted as true crosslinks, with a defined proportion of the signal [2X/(2 + X)] being noise from the thiol‐exchange. The thiol‐exchange was correlated with the protein cysteine content and was minimized by shortening the trypsin incubation time, and for two molecular chaperone proteins with known structure all crosslinks fitted well to the structure data. The thiol‐exchange can thus be controlled and isotope‐labeled DTSSP safely used to detect true crosslinks between lysine residues in proteins.
Towards animating ray‐traced volume visualization
Authors: Foley Thomas A. , Lane David A. , Nielson Gregory M.
Published: July 2011

Ray‐tracing volumetric data may take several minutes to compute a single image from a fixed viewpoint. We present techniques that generate approximate ray‐traced volumetric images in less than one second per image, after a lengthy initialization process is performed. These approximate images are based on methods that interpolate data sampled at locations on a sphere.
The menv modelling and animation environment
Authors: Reeves William T. , Ostby Eben F. , Leffler Samuel J.
Published: July 2011

This paper describes Menv, an environment for the development of interactive three‐dimensional modelling and animation systems. Menv supports both interactive and procedural techniques. Systems built upon Menv are implemented as a set of independent, co‐operating tools operating upon a shared workspace. Models are defined in a high‐level procedural language with calls to graphical primitives. Animation data is bound to the model through the use of time‐varying articulated variables.
George Eliot's 'Daniel Deronda' Notebooks
Authors: Eliot George
Published: July 2011

George Eliot's notebooks from the years 1872–77 contain memoranda of her reading while she was preparing for and writing Daniel Deronda, together with the 'Oriental Memoranda' and other notes she recorded in the year following the novel's publication. Above all, the notebooks reveal her acquisition of a wide range of learning about Judaism and provide insight into the creative process of integrating that learning into Daniel Deronda. One of these notebooks is published in this 1996 book; others are offered in new transcriptions. They are all presented in a form which demonstrates the intellectual coherence underlying the diversity of the memoranda: translations are provided for the notes in German, French, Italian, Greek, and Hebrew; explanatory notes are offered, and interpretative links are made to the novel; primary sources are traced and the chronology of Eliot's reading outlined.
Social Situations
Authors: Argyle Michael , Furnham Adrian , Graham Jean Ann
Published: July 2011

This book not only documents the authors' own studies of real life social situations, but also provides an extensive review of other literature in this field. Michael Argyle and his colleagues are particularly concerned with the practical applications of situational analysis - to social skills training, mental health and deviance, intergroup behaviour, personnel selection and consumer research. In addition, by concentrating on situational variables, the volume makes an important contribution to the study of personality, since personality-situational interaction is at least as important in determining behaviour as are general personality traits. During recent years there has been extensive criticism of the conduct of research in social psychology. Social Situations points the way forward to a resolution of the crisis in the discipline. It marks an important advance in our understanding of social behaviour which will interest social and clinical psychologists and sociologists.
The Idea of Luxury
Authors: Berry Christopher J.
Published: July 2011

In this far-ranging and innovative study Christopher Berry explores the meanings and ramifications of the idea of luxury. Insights from political theory, philosophy and intellectual history are utilised in a sophisticated conceptual analysis that is complemented by a series of specific historical investigations. Dr Berry suggests that the value attached to luxury is a crucial component in any society's self-understanding, and shows how luxury has changed from being essentially a negative term, threatening social virtue, to a guileless ploy supporting consumption. His analytic focus upon the interplay between the notions of need and desire suggests that luxuries fall into four categories - sustenance, shelter, clothing and leisure - and these are exemplified in sources as diverse as classical philosophy and contemporary advertising.
Geography, Technology, and War
Authors: Pryor John H.
Published: July 2011

When maritime transport and communication depended on muscle and wind-power, the Mediterranean Sea functioned as a symbiotic force between the civilisations which surrounded it, at once the major dividing barrier and the major connecting element. In this study, the technological limitations of maritime traffic are considered in conjunction with the peculiar geographical conditions within which it operated, and which led to the establishment of major sea lanes on trunk routes along which traffic could move safely, efficiently, and economically. These trunk routes remained virtually unchanged from antiquity to the sixteenth century, and eventually constituted economic and strategic maritime frontiers between civilisations. At the same time, the technological limitations of the oared galley meant that coasts and islands along the trunk routes had also to be held, a necessity which favoured geographically the Christian West over the world of Byzantium and Islam.
Transcendental Number Theory
Authors: Baker Alan
Published: July 2011

First published in 1975, this classic book gives a systematic account of transcendental number theory, that is those numbers which cannot be expressed as the roots of algebraic equations having rational coefficients. Their study has developed into a fertile and extensive theory enriching many branches of pure mathematics. Expositions are presented of theories relating to linear forms in the logarithms of algebraic numbers, of Schmidt's generalisation of the Thue-Siegel-Roth theorem, of Shidlovsky's work on Siegel's |E|-functions and of Sprindzuk's solution to the Mahler conjecture. The volume was revised in 1979: however Professor Baker has taken this further opportunity to update the book including new advances in the theory and many new references.
The San Francisco Renaissance
Authors: Davidson Michael
Published: July 2011

The San Francisco Renaissance is the first overview of this major American literary movement. Michael Davidson recounts its emergence during the postwar period in the San Francisco Bay area as defined by poets such as Kenneth Rexroth, Robert Duncan and William Everson, and then as it blossomed into the literary excitements associated with the Beat movement and with writers like Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg. Individual chapters are devoted to major writers of the period and to their involvement with social and political change during the Cold War era. Davidson's penultimate chapter deals with the largely neglected context of women writers during this period, and the final chapter deals with poetry since 1965.
The Regulation of Monopoly
Authors: Sherman Roger
Published: July 2011

Competition may not function well where technology calls for large and complex investments, as in the electrivity industry where public utilities often provide service. This book presents economic welfare foundations for the purpose of evaluating how well, from a social point of view, an enterprise performs when competition is unable to function. Problems with existing institutions are emphasized. Topics treated include welfare measures and their uses in peak-load pricing, second-best pricing, and income distribution. Professor Sherman covers public choice difficulties of government intervention, and describes problems with incentives in statutory monopolies and efforts to overcome them through the study of principal-agent relationships. Contestability and sustainable prices are also discussed, as well as effects of uncertainty and imperfect information.
The Old Country
Authors: Seddon George
Published: July 2011

We are a nation of gardeners, and we take pleasure in tending our backyards. But this pleasure sits uneasily with our knowledge that the places where most of us live are running out of water. We suspect that our lawns and many of our plants from the damp climates of northern European gardens are too demanding of scarce supplies, but can't imagine our streets and gardens without them. The Old Country opens our eyes, and minds, to other possibilities. It does so by telling us stories about our natural landscape. George Seddon believes that the better we understand the delicacy and beauty of our natural environment, the more 'at home' we will feel as Australians. This passionate, wise and witty book, enriched with breathtakingly beautiful illustrations, suggests that the answers to our water problems lie here, at home.
Foundations of Music History
Authors: Dahlhaus Carl
Published: July 2011

This book is the first thoroughgoing study in any language of the philosophy of music history. Drawing on competing philosophies of history throughout the ages, from the Enlightenment to the French structuralists, from the German idealist tradition to Russian formalism, the late Carl Dahlhaus applies the thoughts of these various schools to the specialist requirements of music history and assesses their advantages and shortcomings. Special attention is given to an appraisal of whether Marxist critiques are still viable and where they stand in need of rethinking. For this English edition, the author provided an extensive annotated bibliography.
Photographs of Stars, Star-Clusters and Nebulae
Authors: Roberts Isaac
Published: July 2011

A geologist and fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, Isaac Roberts (1829–1904) made significant contributions to the photography of star-clusters and nebulae. By championing reflecting rather than refracting telescopes, Roberts was able to perceive previously unnoticed star-clusters, and was the first person to identify the spiral shape of the Great Andromeda Nebula. Roberts' use of a telescope for photographing stars, and a long exposure time, provided greater definition of stellar phenomena than previously used hand-drawings. Although Roberts' conclusions about the nature of the nebulae he photographed were not always correct, the book is significant for the possibilities it suggests for nebular photography. Published in 1893 and 1899, the two-volume Photographs of Stars represents the summation of his work with his assistant W. S. Franks at his observatory in Crowborough, Sussex. Volume 2 contains 29 plates of stars, and his conclusions about their origins and nature.
Personal Reminiscences of a Great Crusade
Authors: Butler Josephine
Published: July 2011

Josephine Butler (1828–1906) was a prominent English feminist who was best known for her controversial campaigns concerning the welfare and civil rights of prostitutes. In 1869 she became the leader of the movement to limit the extension of the Contagious Diseases Acts, and was instrumental in having the Acts repealed in 1886. She later became involved in campaigns to stop child trafficking and child prostitution, which led to the age of consent being raised to 16 from 13 in 1885. This volume, first published in 1893, contains Butler's memoirs of her many campaigns. Focusing on the years 1869–1880, Butler explains the political background to the Contagious Diseases Acts, describes the moral and political opposition to the legislation, explores the ideology of the repeal campaign and describes her role. For more information on this author, see http://orlando.cambridge.org/public/svPeople?person_id=butljo