bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the functional local linear estimate for spatial regression
Authors: Chouaf Abdelhak , Laksaci Ali
Published: September 2012

Consider Z

i
 = (X

i
,Y

i
), i ∈ ℤ
N
be an F×ℝ-valued measurable strictly stationary spatial process, where F is a semi-metric space. We study the spatial covariation between X

i
and Y

i
by using the local linear estimate of the functional spatial regression E[Y

i
|X

i
]. The main result of this work is the establishment of the almost complete convergence for the proposed estimator, under some general conditions. We illustrate our methodology by applying the estimator to climatological data.
Bounds for joint portfolios of dependent risks
Authors: Puccetti Giovanni , Rüschendorf Ludger
Published: September 2012

In this paper, we survey, extend and improve several bounds for the distribution function and the tail probabilities of portfolios, where the dependence structure within the portfolio is completely unknown or only partially known. We present various methods for obtaining bounds based on rearrangements, duality theory, conditional moments and reduction techniques. In particular, we consider the case where only the simple marginal distributions are known, the general overlapping marginals case where certain joint distributions are known and the case of additional restrictions on the dependence structure, as, for example, the restriction to positive dependence. Some of the bounds pose a considerable numerical challenge. We discuss the quality of the bounds and numerical aspects in some examples.
The Civilianization of a Nuclear Weapon Effects Test: Operation ARGUS
Authors: Mundey Lisa M.
Published: September 2012

In 1958 the United States secretly conducted a low-yield, high-atmosphere nuclear weapon effects test in the South Atlantic code-named ARGUS. It tested a theory devised by Nicholas Christofilos that an anti-missile shield could be created around the planet by trapping high-energy electrons in the Earth’s radiation field. In order to conduct the test before the October 1958 nuclear test moratorium, the military borrowed International Geophysical Year equipment and used the program as cover for the clandestine nuclear tests. Though the experiment determined that an electron shield could not work, it provided important research data for weapon effects, atmospheric physics, and long-distance communications. In March 1959, Hanson Baldwin and Walter Sullivan of the New York Times published an unauthorized account of the tests. In response, the White House presented ARGUS as a civilian science program of the International Geophysical Year rather than a nuclear weapon effects test. In the internal debate about declassification, in the publicity of the test, and in the memories of James Killian and Herbert York, Operation ARGUS demonstrates that many scientists and Americans remained comfortable with anti-militarism, even under militarized policies.
Expression of the CD11c gene in subcutaneous adipose tissue is associated with cytokine level and insulin resistance in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Tao Tao , Li Shengxian , Zhao Aimin , Zhang Yanyun , Liu Wei
Published: September 2012

Objective

Alterations in the phenotypes of macrophages in adipose tissue play a key role in inflammation and insulin resistance (IR). The phenotypes of macrophages in subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and the relationship between proinflammation markers and IR in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) remain unclear. The objectives of this study are to characterize the gene expression of macrophage markers and cytokines in the SAT of PCOS women and to estimate their relationships with circulating levels of cytokines and IR.

Methods

The cross-sectional study involves 16 PCOS women and 18 normal control women. Cytokines and macrophage markers in the circulation and SAT were determined using ELISA, quantitative PCR, or immunofluorescence staining. IR was estimated using the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR).

Results

The gene expression levels of CD11c along with TNF
α and leptin in SAT remained significantly higher in PCOS women than in normal women (P<0.05). However, no significant differences were found in CD68 mRNA expression in SAT between women with and without PCOS (P>0.05). Furthermore, CD11c mRNA abundance provided a stronger contribution to models predicting serum levels of TNFα (sTNFα) than did CD68 mRNA abundance. Lastly, increased sTNFα was associated with increased HOMA-IR in PCOS women, and this association was independent of both overall and visceral adiposity.

Conclusion

The high expression level of CD11c mRNA in SAT was proved to be an important feature in PCOS women. Furthermore, CD11c mRNA abundance made a stronger contribution to models predicting sTNFα in which existing proinflammatory properties might significantly contribute to the pathogenesis of IR in PCOS women.
Cupping for Treating Neck Pain in Video Display Terminal (VDT) Users: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Kim Tae‐Hun , Kang Jung Won , Kim Kun Hyung , Lee Min Hee , Kim Jung Eun , Kim Joo‐Hee , Lee Seunghoon , Shin Mi‐Suk , Jung So‐Young , Kim Ae‐Ran , Park Hyo‐Ju , Hong Kwon Eui
Published: September 2012

Cupping for Treating Neck Pain in Video Display Terminal (VDT) Users: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial: Tae‐Hun KIM, et al. Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, South Korea—

Objectives

This was a randomized controlled pilot trial to evaluate the effectiveness of cupping therapy for neck pain in video display terminal (VDT) workers.

Methods

Forty VDT workers with moderate to severe neck pain were recruited from May, 2011 to February, 2012. Participants were randomly allocated into one of the two interventions: 6 sessions of wet and dry cupping or heating pad application. The participants were offered an exercise program to perform during the participation period. A 0 to 100 numeric rating scale (NRS) for neck pain, measure yourself medical outcome profile 2 score (MYMOP2 score), cervical spine range of motion (Cspine ROM), neck disability index (NDI), the EuroQol health index (EQ‐5D), short form stress response inventory (SRI‐SF) and fatigue severity scale (FSS) were assessed at several points during a 7‐week period.

Results

Compared with a heating pad, cupping was more effective in improving pain (adjusted NRS difference: −1.29 [95% CI −1.61, −0.97] at 3 weeks (p=0.025) and −1.16 [−1.48, −0.84] at 7 weeks (p=0.005)), neck function (adjusted NDI difference: −0.79 [−1.11, −0.47] at 3 (p=0.0039) and 7 weeks (p<0.0001)) and discomfort (adjusted MYMOP2 difference score: −0.72 [−1.04 to −0.40] at 3 weeks and −0.92 [−1.24, −0.60] at 7 weeks). Significant improvement in EQ‐5D was observed at 7 weeks (1.0 [0.88, 1.0] with cupping and 0.91 [0.86, 0.91] with heating pad treatment, p=0.0054). Four participants reported mild adverse events of cupping.

Conclusion

Two weeks of cupping therapy and an exercise program may be effective in reducing pain and improving neck function in VDT workers.
Functioning of 7-Year-Old Children Born at 32 to 35 Weeks’ Gestational Age
Authors: Cserjesi Renata , Van Braeckel Koenraad N.J.A. , Butcher Phillipa R. , Kerstjens Jorien M. , Reijneveld Sijmen A. , Bouma Anke , Geuze Reint H. , Bos Arend F.
Published: September 2012

OBJECTIVE:

To compare neuropsychological functions in moderately preterm (32–35 weeks’ gestation) and full-term children at the age of 7 years and identify gender differences.

METHODS:

Community-based prospective cohort study of 248 moderately preterm children (138 boys) and 130 full-term children (58 boys). Neuropsychological tests included IQ, memory, attention, visual perception, motor skills, visuomotor skills, and parental report of executive functioning.

RESULTS:

The moderately preterm group performed significantly worse on total and performance IQ, visuospatial reasoning, attention control, inhibition, and executive functioning. No differences were found in verbal IQ, verbal memory, and visuomotor and motor skills. Preterm children were at higher risk for scores <10th percentile on intelligence, visuospatial reasoning (relative risk ratio both: 1.69 [95% confidence interval: 1.29–2.28]), and executive functioning problems (relative risk: 1.94 [95% confidence interval: 1.51–2.57]). Using gender-specific norms, preterm boys performed significantly worse than full-term boys on visuospatial reasoning (P < .01); preterm girls performed significantly worse than full-term girls on visuospatial reasoning, intelligence, attention, and executive functioning (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Moderately preterm birth is associated with lower intelligence and poorer neuropsychological functioning at early school age. No differences in motor skills and verbal memory were found. Using gender-specific norms, our data suggest that moderately preterm boys catch up, whereas moderately preterm girls lag behind their peers on various neuropsychological functions by the age of 7 years.
Postnatal Fish Oil Supplementation in High-Risk Infants to Prevent Allergy: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: D’Vaz N. , Meldrum S.J. , Dunstan J.A. , Martino D. , McCarthy S. , Metcalfe J. , Tulic M.K. , Mori T.A. , Prescott S.L.
Published: September 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Relative deficiency of dietary omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) has been implicated in the rising allergy prevalence in Westernized countries. Fish oil supplementation may provide an intervention strategy for primary allergy prevention. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of fish oil n-3 PUFA supplementation from birth to 6 months of age on infant allergic disease.

METHODS:

In a double-blind randomized controlled trial, 420 infants at high atopic risk received a daily supplement of fish oil containing 280 mg docosahexaenoic acid and 110 mg eicosapentaenoic acid or a control (olive oil), from birth to age 6 months. PUFA levels were measured in 6-month-old infants’ erythrocytes and plasma and their mothers’ breast milk. Eczema, food allergy, asthma and sensitization were assessed in 323 infants for whom clinical follow-up was completed at 12 months of age.

RESULTS:

At 6 months of age, infant docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid levels were significantly higher (both P < .05) and erythrocyte arachidonic acid levels were lower (P = .003) in the fish oil group. Although n-3 PUFA levels at 6 months were associated with lower risk of eczema (P = .033) and recurrent wheeze (P = .027), the association with eczema was not significant after multiple comparisons and there was no effect of the intervention per se on the primary study outcomes. Specifically, between-group comparisons revealed no differences in the occurrence of allergic outcomes including sensitization, eczema, asthma, or food allergy.

CONCLUSIONS:

Postnatal fish oil supplementation improved infant n-3 status but did not prevent childhood allergic disease.
Implementation of a Central Line Maintenance Care Bundle in Hospitalized Pediatric Oncology Patients
Authors: Rinke Michael L. , Chen Allen R. , Bundy David G. , Colantuoni Elizabeth , Fratino Lisa , Drucis Kim M. , Panton Stephanie Y. , Kokoszka Michelle , Budd Alicia P. , Milstone Aaron M. , Miller Marlene R.
Published: September 2012

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate whether a multidisciplinary, best-practice central line maintenance care bundle reduces central line-associated blood stream infection (CLABSI) rates in hospitalized pediatric oncology patients and to further delineate the epidemiology of CLABSIs in this population.

METHODS:

We performed a prospective, interrupted time series study of a best-practice bundle addressing all areas of central line care: reduction of entries, aseptic entries, and aseptic procedures when changing components. Based on a continuous quality improvement model, targeted interventions were instituted to improve compliance with each of the bundle elements. CLABSI rates and epidemiological data were collected for 10 months before and 24 months after implementation of the bundle and compared in a Poisson regression model.

RESULTS:

CLABSI rates decreased from 2.25 CLABSIs per 1000 central line days at baseline to 1.79 CLABSIs per 1000 central line days during the intervention period (incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 0.80, P = .58). Secondary analyses indicated CLABSI rates were reduced to 0.81 CLABSIs per 1000 central line days in the second 12 months of the intervention (IRR: 0.36, P = .091). Fifty-nine percent of infections resulted from Gram-positive pathogens, 37% of patients with a CLABSI required central line removal, and patients with Hickman catheters were more likely to have a CLABSI than patients with Infusaports (IRR: 4.62, P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS:

A best-practice central line maintenance care bundle can be implemented in hospitalized pediatric oncology patients, although long ramp-up times may be necessary to reap maximal benefits. Further research is needed to determine if this CLABSI rate reduction can be sustained and spread.
Posztkondicionálás – A távoli szervi dysfunctiók ellenszere?
Authors: Ónody Péter , Rosero Olivér , Kovács Tibor , Garbaisz Dávid , Hegedüs Viktor , Lotz Gábor , Harsányi László , Szijártó Attila
Published: September 2012

Absztrakt

Bevezetés:A vékonybél ischaemiás-reperfusiós (I-R) károsodása napjainkban is magas mortalitással járó kórkép, mely az arteria mesenterica superior (AMS) occlusiója vagy keringési redisztribúció során jöhet létre. Kísérletünk célja a posztkondicionálás lokális és távoli szervekre kifejtett protektív hatásának vizsgálata volt, patkányvékonybél ischaemiás-reperfusiós modelljében.Módszerek:Hím Wistar-patkányokon az AMS 60 perces occlusióját hoztuk létre. Az állatokat (n= 30) három csoportra osztottuk: áloperált (Álop), I-R kontroll (I-R) és posztkondicionált (PC). Az utóbbi csoportban a kirekesztést követően 2 percen át 6 ciklusban 10 másodperces felengedés és reocclusio repetitív ismétlése után került sor reperfusióra. A 6 órás reperfusio végén az állatokat exsanguináltuk, a vékonybél mindhárom szakaszából, illetve a tüdőből, a veséből és a májból szövettani mintákat vettünk, valamint nyálkahártya-kaparékból homogenizátumot készítettünk az antioxidáns status meghatározása céljából.Eredmények:A kontrollcsoportban nagyobb szöveti destrukcióra utaló jeleket észleltünk a vékonybelek, a tüdő, a vese és a máj tekintetében egyaránt. A károsodás mértékével összhangban a „wet/dry” ratio (p= 0,026) és a szérumkreatinin (p= 0,013), ASAT (p= 0,038), LDH (p= 0,028) és CK (p= 0,038) szintjének szignifikáns emelkedése volt mérhető a kontrollcsoportban a posztkondicionált csoporthoz képest. Javult továbbá a vékonybél-nyálkahártya antioxidáns statusa és a szérum-IL-6 koncentrációja (420 pg/ml vs. 188 pg/ml).Következtetés:A posztkondicionálás csökkentette a vékonybél lokális ischaemiás-reperfusiós károsodását. A strukturális károsodás mérséklődésén túlmenően javult a szisztémás antioxidáns status, és csökkent a távoli szervek károsodása.
SOLARC® Anti-Reflective Coating Material for High Transfer Efficiency Application Process
Authors: Varaprasad Desaraju , Mukhopadhyay Sudip , Korolev Boris , Gebrebrhan Amanuel , Liu Ya Qun , Fu Robbie , Chen David , DeTorres Renato , Bien Hai
Published: September 2012

It has been demonstrated in literature that chemical liquid deposition (CLD) processes such as dip coating, spray coating, roll coating, spin coating, curtain coating, meniscus coating etc. can be successfully used to deposit anti-reflective coatings on glass substrates. In comparison to physical vapor deposition (PVD), a CLD process generally is cost efficient because of lower capital requirements to set up coating manufacturing lines. Within the realm of CLD processes only some application techniques are suitable for high speed continuous manufacturing processes to deposit coatings on large area glass substrates. Significant differences in transfer efficiencies of these high speed application processes are readily apparent when material utilization per unit area of glass are compared. Roll coat process among all the high speed CLD processes stands out for its high material transfer efficiency due to direct contact printing on flat glass substrates. Honeywell Electronic Materials expanded its line of SOLARC® anti-reflective coating materials to include a new coating formulation SOLARC® RPV, which is customized for roll coating application. This paper highlights the advantages of using SOLARC® RPV in roll coat process and the performance attributes of SOLARC® anti-reflective coatings. Durability characteristics of these anti-reflective coatings in accelerated aging tests designed to simulate harsh field conditions will also be discussed.
Behavioral Discrimination between Monogyne and Polygyne Red Fire Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in their Native Range
Authors: Chirino Mónica G , Gilbert Lawrence E , Folgarait Patricia J
Published: September 2012

Nestmate recognition among social insects is presumed to restrict non-nestmates from exploiting nest resources. Here, we developed aggression bioassays to assess the discrimination behaviors of both polygynous and monogynous forms of the red fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, during symmetrical interactions in neutral arenas. Workers from polygyne colonies exhibited risk avoidance behaviors; that is, defensive postures or the avoidance of direct contact during interactions. Workers from monogyne colonies always exhibited aggressive behaviors in the form of physical or chemical attacks. In interactions between both, monogyne workers usually started the aggression by surrounding and biting the polygyne ants. Polygyne S.invicta workers also distinguished nestmates from foreigners, but their response was not as aggressive as that of monogynes. The proposed ethogram that we constructed identified monogyne and polygyne forms of S.invicta colonies in concordance with current measures, including number of queens, and expression of the Gp-9 gene.
Population Genetics of the Western Bean Cutworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Across the United States
Authors: Lindroth E , Hunt T E , Skoda S R , Culy M D , Lee D , Foster J E
Published: September 2012

The western bean cutworm, Striacosta albicosta (Smith), is a secondary pest of maize (Zea mays L.) and dry beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in the western United States. Recently, this insect has undergone a major territory expansion into the eastern United States and has become a pest throughout much of the Corn Belt. This study was instigated to examine the population genetics of this pest to facilitate control and resistance management, as well as to shed light on the current habitat expansion. S. albicosta individuals were collected from 24 different locations across the traditional and expanded range and amplified fragment length polymorphism analysis was conducted to assess genetic variability. In total, 90 markers were analyzed, encompassing >90% of genetic variation. Gst across all locations was moderately high (Gst = 0.5032). AMOVA analysis revealed that the majority of genetic variation was within locations (54%) and among locations within groups (45%) indicating genetic differentiation of subpopulations. The Mantel test revealed no correlation between geographic and genetic distance (n = 548; r = 0.0045; P = 0.4350). Locations sampled in the eastern United States did not exhibit any reduction in genetic variation in comparison to locations sampled in the western United States, so we conclude that no bottleneck event has occurred with this territory expansion.
Age in Relation to Copulation, Egg Development, and Multiple Mating Behavior in the Coconut Palm Pest Brontispa longissima (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Kawazu Kei , Sugeno Wataru , Mochizuki Atsushi , Takano Shun-Ichiro , Murata Mika , Ichiki Ryoko T , Nakamura Satoshi
Published: September 2012

To clarify the reproductive properties of the coconut palm pest, Brontispa longissima (Gestro) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), we investigated in the laboratory the diel periodicity in copulation, effect of adult age after emergence on copulation and ovarian development, reproductive development in relation to female age, and the possibility of multiple mating. The beetles used in this study were reared in the laboratory and were fed an alternative food plant, narrowleaf cattail, Typha domingensis Pers. (Typhaceae). Copulation occurred throughout the 24-h cycle but mostly occurred in the photophase with two peaks, one at the onset of lights-on and the other 8–12 h after lights-on, indicating that most copulation activity in B. longissima in the field occurs in the early morning and the afternoon. Females could copulate immediately after emergence, whereas males began copulating 3 wk after emergence. Ovaries of females started to develop in the absence of mating and were correlated with adult age. Mature males could copulate with females regardless of ovarian developmental stage, and females with undeveloped ovaries accepted copulation attempts. Our study showed that the timing of copulation during the preoviposition period would not affect numbers of eggs laid, length of preoviposition period, or viability of eggs. B. longissima adults engaged in multiple mating.
Three New Brazilian Species of Chrysopodes (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)
Authors: Tauber Catherine A , Albuquerque Gilberto S , Tauber Maurice J
Published: September 2012

We describe three new species of Chrysopodes (Chrysopodes) that were collected in agricultural or disturbed habitats in Brazil. Each species has a suite of distinguishing external characters, but to confirm identifications it is essential to examine the genital features (male or female). These three new species bring the total number of described Chrysopodes species to 47.
Ultrastructural Studies of the Salivary Duct System in the Whitefly VectorBemisia tabaci(Aleyrodidae: Hemiptera)
Authors: Cicero Joseph M , Brown Judith K
Published: September 2012

Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) transmits plant viruses of the genus Begomovirus in a circulative manner, and once acquired, virus particles persist and are transmissible for the life of the vector. Saliva is generated by primary and accessory salivary gland cells of the paired, bilaterally symmetrical salivary gland system. It travels from secretory cells, through the internal ductules, to the external ducts, which in turn carry it to the oral region where the so-called salivary pump and the stylets occur. The ducts of either side consist of at least four components—two gland ducts, one lateral duct, and one postmedial duct. Gland ducts start, respectively, at the hilum of each gland, and extend independently of each other before fusing together by their basal laminae to become the biluminal lateral duct. The biluminal lateral duct merges into the uniluminal postmedial duct. The lateral and postmedial ducts make intimate contact with muscles in its area, including one involved in governing the retractable labial shaft. The labium consists of external and internal halves. During retraction/protraction, the latter half moves through the second intercommissural space. The postmedial ducts track anteriorly around either side of it, and fuse together at the body's midline to form the biluminal medial duct. This duct drains into the salivary pump. The retortiform organs are involved in stylet regeneration. Maxillary stylets have grooves and ridges that interlock to form the salivary and food canals. In developmental terms, the salivary canal results from failure of one ridge to fill its corresponding groove.
An in situ low-pressure grouting application
Authors: Mutman Utkan , Kavak Aydın
Published: September 2012

This study examined the effects of low-pressure grouting on soil properties at a site that is at risk of soil liquefaction. The study was conducted at a 96 m2 site located in Yalova, Turkey, that is considered a first-degree seismic zone. Compaction grout was injected into a silty sand layer at 100 kPa and 150 kPa pressure at three different points at depths of up to 9 m. Standard penetration tests, cone penetration tests and seismic refraction tests were conducted before and after the grouting, to determine the effect of grouting on the soil properties in the field. Grout injection holes were drilled at a spacing of 1·25–3·0 m. Grout injection was observed to be impossible in wells that were spaced closer than 1·50 m, because of the diffusion of grout from primary injections. The injected grout volume was calculated to be 5% of the total soil volume. The results from the tests indicate that the bearing capacity of the soil increased by approximately 50%, and the safety factor with respect to liquefaction increased by a factor of up to 100%.
Using habitat suitability models to target invasive plant species surveys
Authors: Crall Alycia W. , Jarnevich Catherine S. , Panke Brendon , Young Nick , Renz Mark , Morisette Jeffrey
Published: September 2012

Managers need new tools for detecting the movement and spread of nonnative, invasive species. Habitat suitability models are a popular tool for mapping the potential distribution of current invaders, but the ability of these models to prioritize monitoring efforts has not been tested in the field. We tested the utility of an iterative sampling design (i.e., models based on field observations used to guide subsequent field data collection to improve the model), hypothesizing that model performance would increase when new data were gathered from targeted sampling using criteria based on the initial model results. We also tested the ability of habitat suitability models to predict the spread of invasive species, hypothesizing that models would accurately predict occurrences in the field, and that the use of targeted sampling would detect more species with less sampling effort than a nontargeted approach. We tested these hypotheses on two species at the state scale (Centaurea stoebe and Pastinaca sativa) in Wisconsin (USA), and one genus at the regional scale (Tamarix) in the western United States. These initial data were merged with environmental data at 30‐m2 resolution for Wisconsin and 1‐km2 resolution for the western United States to produce our first iteration models. We stratified these initial models to target field sampling and compared our models and success at detecting our species of interest to other surveys being conducted during the same field season (i.e., nontargeted sampling). Although more data did not always improve our models based on correct classification rate (CCR), sensitivity, specificity, kappa, or area under the curve (AUC), our models generated from targeted sampling data always performed better than models generated from nontargeted data. For Wisconsin species, the model described actual locations in the field fairly well (kappa = 0.51, 0.19, P < 0.01), and targeted sampling did detect more species than nontargeted sampling with less sampling effort (χ2 = 47.42, P < 0.01). From these findings, we conclude that habitat suitability models can be highly useful tools for guiding invasive species monitoring, and we support the use of an iterative sampling design for guiding such efforts.
Corrigendum to - Sorption properties of periodate oxidized cotton [Chem. Ind. Chem. Eng. Q. 17(3) (2011) 367−374]
Authors: Nikolic Tanja , Kostic Mirjana , Praskalo Jovana , Petronijevic Zivomir , Skundric Petar
Published: September 2012

The authors regret that a citation of Per A. Larsson, Magnus Gim?ker, Lars
W?gberg, The influence of periodate oxidation on the moisture sorptivity and
dimensional stability of paper, Cellulose 15 (2008) 837-847, and the
corresponding copyright permission to reproduce were inadvertently omitted
from the caption of Figure 4. The caption of the figure should have read:
Figure 4. Schematic representation of a possible mechanism for the
crosslinking reaction. (Adapted with permission from Cellulose 15 (2008)
837-847. Copyright 2012 Springer.) The authors sincerely regret any
inconvenience that this omission may have caused. One of the conditions of
submission of a paper for publication in the Chem. Ind. Chem. Eng. Q. are
that authors confirm that their work is entirely originally written, someone
else?s data and/or text are appropriately cited or quoted and permission has
been obtained for use of copyrighted material from other sources. Therefore,
the above article represents an improperly usage of the scientific publishing
system. Apologies are offered to readers of the Chem. Ind. Chem. Eng. Q. that
this abuse was not detected during the submission process.
Development and validation of a simple thin-layer chromatographic method for the analysis of p-chlorophenol in treated wastewater
Authors: Natic Maja , Dabic Dragana , Milojkovic-Opsenica Dusanka , Dojcinovic Biljana , Roglic Goran , Manojlovic Dragan , Tesic Zivoslav
Published: September 2012

A thin-layer chromatographic method with densitometric detection was
established for quantification of p-chlorophenol in waste water. Degradation
efficiency of p-chlorophenol was monitored after each treatment of the
wastewater samples. Degradation of p-chlorophenol was performed with advanced
oxidation processes (AOPs), using UV, H2O2/UV, O3/H2O2/UV, O3 and O3/UV.
Developed TLC procedure has been found to be simple, rapid and precise. The
method was characterized by high sensitivity (limit of detection was 11 ng
per band and limit of quantification 35 ng per band), linear range (from 75
to 500 ng per band, r = 0.9965), and high precision, accuracy (mean
percentage recovery 98.6%), and specificity. Additionally, the efficiency of
degradation was monitored using HPLC giving comparable results with RP TLC
measurements.
Development of flow injection method for indirect copper determination with amperometric detection in drinking water samples
Authors: Lolic Aleksandar , Tripkovic Tatjana , Baosic Rada , Nikolic-Mandic Snezana , Stanimirovic Bojana
Published: September 2012

A gas-diffusion flow injection method with amperometric detection for
indirect copper determination on a silver electrode is developed. The flow
through system is equipped with two injection valves and a gas-diffusion
unit. In the first step, a signal of cyanide solution was recorded. In the
following step a signal of cyanide in the presence of copper was measured.
Interferences (Cd(II), Co(II), Ag(I), Ni(II), Fe(III), Hg(II) and Zn(II))
were investigated and successfully removed. The calibration graph is linear
in the range 1-90 ?mol dm-3 of copper, correlation coefficient is 0.993, the
regression equation is I = (0.0455?0.0015)c + (0.4611?0.0671), I is relative
signal decrease in ?A and c is concentration in ?mol dm-3. Relative standard
deviation for six consecutive injections of 30 ?mol dm-3 copper(II) was 1.47
% and for 1 ?mol dm-3 copper(II) was 3.40 %. The detection limit, calculated
as 3 s/m (where s is a standard deviation of nine measurement of a reagent
blank and m is the slope of the calibration curve), was 0.32 ?mol dm-3, which
corresponds to 2.44 ng of copper(II) (loop volume was 0.12 cm3). The method
enables 60 analyses per hour and it was successfully applied on determination
of copper in drinking water samples.
CBCT assessment of alveolar buccal bone level after RME
Authors: Pangrazio-Kulbersh Valmy , Jezdimir Brynn , de Deus Haughey Mariana , Kulbersh Richard , Wine Paul , Kaczynski Richard
Published: September 2012

Objective:

To evaluate the maxillary alveolar buccal bone levels after expansion with banded and bonded expanders, using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Materials and Methods:

The population sample consisted of 22 patients who required expansion during their comprehensive treatment; 10 patients (five males and five females) with a mean age of 13.5 years (CVMS 3) had bonded hygienic expanders, and 12 (six males and six females) with a mean age of 12.6 years (CVMS 3) had banded hyrax expanders. CBCT was taken both before (T1) and 6 months after last activation (T2). Measurements were made for buccal bone thickness (BT), buccal marginal bone level (MBL), and bone thickness level (BTL) at the right first molar (MRt), left first molar (MLft), right first premolar (PMRt), and left first premolar (PMLft). A mixed-design analysis of variance assessed differences between and within the groups. Post hoc t-tests were completed on significant analysis of variance results to determine where differences occurred.

Results:

Analysis of variance revealed no significant differences between or within the two groups. BT significantly decreased horizontally following rapid maxillary expansion. The amount of bone lost was −0.59 mm MRt, −0.72 mm PMRt, −0.50 mm MLft, and −0.57 mm PMLft (P < .003).

Conclusions:

There was no significant difference between or within the two groups. Buccal bone loss in the vertical dimension (MBL) only showed significance in the banded group for MRt (0.63 mm) and PMLFt (0.37 mm) as evidenced by the paired t-test (P < .05).
Three-dimensional analysis of tooth movement after intrusion of a supraerupted molar using a mini-implant with partial-fixed orthodontic appliances
Authors: Lee Shin-Jae , Jang Sook-Yun , Chun Youn-Sic , Lim Won Hee
Published: September 2012

Objective:

To evaluate three-dimensional (3D) positional changes of an intruded tooth, a neighboring tooth, and a tooth connected to a mini-implant following intrusion of a single supraerupted molar, using a mini-implant with partial-fixed orthodontic appliances.

Materials and Methods:

The study consisted of 14 adult patients (two males and 12 females, mean age 41.9 years) with a supraerupted molar due to loss of an antagonist. Intrusion was performed using a mini-implant with a partial strap-up. The mean treatment time was 11.9 months, and the mean retention time was 23.3 months. To quantify the positional changes of the teeth, 3D models using a laser-based, dental scanning system and 3D software at pretreatment, posttreatment, and retention were oriented in a coordinate system and superimposed using nonmoved teeth as references. The changes on the x-, y-, and z-axes were measured at the tip of each cusp in the involved teeth.

Results:

A supraerupted molar was intruded by a mean amount of 1.35 ± 0.48 mm and was well maintained during the retention period. The overall change in the neighboring tooth was insignificant, although it showed opposite movement compared to the intruded tooth during the intrusion. The tooth connected to a mini-implant exhibited a secure anchorage.

Conclusion:

3D analysis showed the detailed positional changes of each tooth, and the involved molars were well maintained after intrusion.
Control of terrestrial animal rabies in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, after oral vaccination of raccoons (1998–2007)
Authors: Horman Joseph T. , Shannon Kyle V. , Simpson E. Marie , Burja Thomas M. , Fey Robert H. , Smith Jeremy J. , Phillips Frances B.
Published: September 2012

Objective—To evaluate the effectiveness of an oral rabies vaccination (ORV) project conducted from 1998 through 2007 in Anne Arundel County, Md, for the control of rabies in terrestrial animals.

Design—Retrospective analysis of surveillance data (1997 through 2007).

Animals—Free-ranging raccoons (Procyon lotor) and other terrestrial mammals.

Procedures—Vaccinia-rabies glycoprotein recombinant virus oral rabies vaccine–bait units were distributed annually by aircraft and ground teams targeting free-ranging raccoons. Approximately 2 to 4 weeks following the vaccine-bait placement, raccoons were live trapped, sedated, processed, and then released. Serologic samples were tested for the presence of rabies virus–neutralizing antibodies (RVNAs). Bait acceptance was estimated by analysis of tetracycline biomarking of sampled teeth. Rabies incidence was determined by the passive identification of rabid terrestrial animals.

Results—The incidence of rabies in terrestrial animals decreased 92% between 1997 (the year prior to the start of the ORV project) and 2007. The mean RVNA prevalence across all years was 33% among trapped raccoons in areas baited with a fish meal polymer bait type, whereas the mean bait acceptance was 30%. Adult raccoons had a seropositivity rate twice that of juvenile raccoons, whereas the bait acceptance rate between adults and juveniles did not differ significantly. For areas baited with a coated sachet bait, adults and juveniles had the same seroprevalence. Juveniles had better seroprevalence when the annual campaign started in September and October, compared with August.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The ORV project contributed to a significant decrease in annual incidence of terrestrial animal rabies in Anne Arundel County, Md, during the 10-year project period. For fish meal polymer baits, juvenile raccoons accessed bait at the same rate as adult raccoons but had a significantly lower prevalence of RVNAs. For coated sachet baits, seroprevalence was the same in both age groups. The time of year the bait distribution occurred and the bait type used may be partial explanations for the difference in RVNA seroprevalence between adults and juvenile raccoons.
Assessment of fracture healing after minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis or open reduction and internal fixation of coexisting radius and ulna fractures in dogs via ultrasonography and radiography
Authors: Pozzi Antonio , Risselada Marije , Winter Matthew D.
Published: September 2012

Objective—To evaluate fracture healing after minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) or open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of coexisting radius and ulna fractures in dogs via ultrasonography and radiography.

Design—Prospective cohort study.

Animals—16 dogs with radius-ulna fractures that underwent MIPO (n = 9; 2 dogs were subsequently not included in the analyses because of incomplete follow-up information) or ORIF (7).

Procedures—Dogs in the 2 treatment groups were matched by age, body weight, and configuration of the fractures. Fracture healing was evaluated with ultrasonography, power Doppler ultrasonography, and radiography every 3 to 4 weeks until healing was complete; a semiquantitative score based on the number of Doppler signals was used to characterize neovascularization, and subjective B-mode ultrasonographic and radiographic scores were assigned to classify healing.

Results—Fractures in dogs that underwent MIPO healed in significantly less time than did fractures in dogs that underwent ORIF (mean ± SD; 30 ± 10.5 days and 64 ± 10.1 days, respectively). Radiography revealed that fractures in dogs that underwent MIPO healed with significantly more callus formation than did fractures in dogs that underwent ORIF. Although Doppler ultrasonography revealed abundant vascularization in fractures that were healing following MIPO, no significant difference in neovascularization scores was found between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—For dogs with radius-ulna fractures, data indicated that bridging osteosynthesis combined with a minimally invasive approach contributed to rapid healing after MIPO. The MIPO technique may offer some clinical advantage over ORIF, given that complete radius-ulna fracture healing was achieved in a shorter time with MIPO.
Clinical and clinicopathologic abnormalities in young dogs with acquired and congenital portosystemic shunts: 93 cases (2003–2008)
Authors: Adam Fiona H. , German Alexander J. , McConnell J. Fraser , Trehy Mary R. , Whitley Nat , Collings Alison , Watson Penny J. , Burrow Rachel D.
Published: September 2012

Objective—To determine whether clinical and clinicopathologic data could assist differentiation of congenital portosystemic shunts (CPSSs) from acquired portosystemic shunts (APSSs) in young dogs.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—Dogs < 30 months of age with CPSSs (n = 62) or APSSs (31).

Procedures—Medical records from 3 referral centers identified 31 dogs with APSSs and 62 dogs with CPSSs diagnosed from July 2003 to July 2008. Signalment, clinical signs, physical examination, and clinicopathological data were recorded, and statistical analyses were performed to determine differences between groups.

Results—Univariable analysis showed APSS patients were older, heavier, and in poorer body condition, compared with CPSS patients. In CPSS patients, diarrhea was less prevalent, and neurologic signs were more prevalent. Ascites was more prevalent in APSS (Fisher exact test; OR, 50.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.2 to 409.7), with no significant difference in albumin concentration between groups. The logistic regression model used to assess clinicopathological parameters showed lower Hct (OR, 1.42 × 10−12; 95% CI, 1.42 × 10−17 to 4.0 × 10−6), higher mean corpuscular volume (OR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.50), and higher alanine aminotransferase concentrations (OR, 1.005; 95% CI, 1.001 to 1.009) were more likely in APSS patients.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Several clinicopathologic differences between dogs with congenital and acquired shunts were identified; however, assessed alone, these would be unlikely to enable differentiation between the 2 conditions. Awareness of the rarity of ascites in CPSS cases should prompt recognition of a likely diagnosis of APSS, allowing the veterinarian to target further diagnostics and counsel the owner appropriately.
Musculoskeletal Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis infection in horses: 35 cases (1999–2009)
Authors: Nogradi Nora , Spier Sharon J. , Toth Balazs , Vaughan Betsy
Published: September 2012

Objective—To describe the clinical course and outcome in horses in which Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis infections were associated with musculoskeletal disease and lameness.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—35 horses.

Procedures—Clinical and clinicopathologic data were collected from horses diagnosed with lameness associated with C pseudotuberculosis infection between 1999 and 2009.

Results—32 (91.4%) horses had grade 4/5 lameness. Three (8.6%) horses had grade 5/5 lameness. Abscesses were diagnosed by clinical or ultrasonographic examination. Abscesses were located in the axillary or triceps region in 25 (71.4%) horses, the stifle region in 2 (5.7%), and the popliteal lymph node in 1 (2.9%). Diffuse lymphangitis was seen in 4 (11.4%) horses, osteomyelitis in 2 (5.7%) horses, and septic arthritis in 2 (5.7%) horses. Horses commonly had clinicopathologic abnormalities characterized by neutrophilia (96.4%), anemia (67.8%), hypoalbuminemia (66.6%), or hyperfibrinogenemia (42.8%). Treatment included surgical drainage of the abscess in 21 (60%) horses, performed under ultrasonography in 20 horses; anti-inflammatory medications in 34 (97.1 %) horses; and antimicrobials in 30 (85.7%) horses.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—C pseudotuberculosis infection of the limbs in horses typically results in severe lameness but may have a favorable prognosis. The diagnosis may be challenging, and results of blood work consistent with inflammation are nonspecific, but anemia, hyperglobulinemia, and increased synergistic hemolysis inhibition titers are common. Ultrasonography may localize the lesions and facilitate surgical drainage to alleviate lameness. When C pseudotuberculosis musculoskeletal infection results in osteomyelitis or septic arthritis, the prognosis for survival is poor.
Assessment of on-screen measurements, magnification, and calibration in digital radiography
Authors: Read Robyn L. , Duncan Colleen G. , Wallace Aaron D. , Perry James A. , Duerr Felix M.
Published: September 2012

Objective—To compare calibration methods for digital radiography in terms of measurement accuracy and interobserver variability.

Design—Prospective study.

Sample—Digital radiographic images of a 155-mm-long Steinmann pin.

Procedures—Measurement of pin length on digital radiographs was determined with a 25.4-mm-diameter calibration ball and commercially available software program via 3 calibration methods (ie, no calibration, autocalibration, and manual calibration). Digital radiographs of the calibration ball and pin were obtained with each placed at various vertical heights from the table (7 heights) and horizontal distances from the center of the beam (4 distances). Measurements of pin length on digital radiographs were made by 4 observers who were blinded to the orientation of the calibration ball and pin.

Results—Pin lengths obtained by each calibration method were significantly different from each other and from the true value. Manual calibration was the most accurate. There was no significant interobserver variability in measurements. There was no significant change in measurements when the calibration ball was moved horizontally, but pin length measurements changed significantly when the ball was moved vertically (away from the table) with an approximate magnification error of 1% per centimeter of distance between the calibration ball and pin.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—For digital radiography, manual calibration is recommended to achieve the most accurate measurements. Ideally, the calibration ball should be placed at the same vertical height as the object to be measured; however, if this cannot be achieved, the magnification error can be expected to be approximately 1% per centimeter of distance.
Maternity Care Today
Authors: Malla DS
Published: September 2012

NJOG 2011 Nov-Dec; 6 (2): 1 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v6i2.6746
Hyperemesis Gravidarum and Obstetric Outcome
Authors: Giri A , Tuladhar AS , Tuladhar H
Published: September 2012

Aims: This study was conducted to evaluate maternal characteristics and obstetric outcomes among women with hyperemesis gravidarum during pregnancy. Methods: A prospective hospital based study was conducted at Nepal medical college and teaching hospital over the period of two years where all the women admitted with history of hyperemesis gravidarum were evaluated. Hyperemesis gravidarum was defined as intractable nausea/vomiting in pregnancy that leads to dehydration, nutritional deficiency, electrolyte and metabolic disturbances and considerable ketonuria that may require hospitalization. The age of women, parity, gestational age, method of treatment and duration of hospital stay were analysed.The fetal outcome evaluated were incidence of preterm birth, apgar score <7 at 5 mins of birth, low birth weight, perinatal deaths and congenital anomalies in baby. Results: There were 52 women admitted with hyperemesis gravidarum among all obstetric admission (N= 2080). The incidence of hyperemesis gravidarum was 2.5% of all pregnancy. The condition was seen more commonly in nulliparous (61.5%) than in multiparous women. It was less common in women of parity 3 or more. The problem was identified maximum (50%) in gestational age of 5-7 weeks though one case was seen in gestational age of 20 weeks also. The mainstay of treatment was supportive. The range of hospital stay was 1-10 days with mean hospital stay 2.26 days. The preterm delivery rate was 4.8% and none of the babies were low birth weight. All the babies had apgar score >7 at 5 mins of birth. There were no congenital anomalies and no perinatal deaths were noted. Conclusions: Women with hyperemesis gravidarum did not have adverse obstetric outcome in this study. NJOG 2011 Nov-Dec; 6 (2): 24-26 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v6i2.6752