bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of Water Content and Chemical Composition on Structural Properties of Alkaline Activated Metakaolin‐Based Geopolymers
Authors: Lizcano Maricela , Gonzalez Andres , Basu Sandip , Lozano Karen , Radovic Miladin 
Published: April 2012

In this study, we evaluate the effects of chemistry and curing and aging conditions on water loss kinetics, porosity, and the structure of geopolymers. Geopolymer samples were prepared by mixing metakaolin precursor with K or Na silicate solutions having SiO2/A2O3 molar ratios from 2.5 to 4 and H2O/(SiO2 + Al2O3) molar ratios from 2 to 4. The samples were cured in sealed and unsealed molds at 60°C for 24 h and then aged at room temperature in open containers. The weight changes were monitored during curing and aging until a steady‐state weight was observed. This study shows conclusively that the amount of water [H2O/(SiO2 + Al2O3)] in the initial geopolymer mixture is the most dominant factor affecting density and open porosity of geopolymers after curing and extended aging. The results also indicate that regardless of the amount of water in the initial mixture and curing conditions (i.e., in sealed or unsealed molds), ~6–10 wt% of all K‐activated samples after aging for 21 days is water whereas in the case of all Na‐activated samples that amount ranges between ~15 and 20 wt%. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio does not have a direct effect on density and open porosity of geopolymers.
Response of the fruit fly parasitoid Diachasmimorpha longicaudata to host and host‐habitat volatile cues
Authors: Segura Diego F. , Viscarret Mariana M. , Ovruski Sergio M. , Cladera Jorge L. 
Published: April 2012

AbstractChemical information is crucial to insect parasitoids for successful host location. Here, we evaluated the innate response of Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a fruit fly larval parasitoid, to cues from host and host habitat (i.e., fruit infested with host larvae). We first assessed the preference of female parasitoids between oranges infested with Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae) and non‐infested fruit. Females were highly attracted towards infested oranges on the basis of volatile chemical cues. After this initial experiment, we aimed at revealing the potential sources of volatile cues present in an infested fruit. To this end, we considered five potential sources: (1) punctured fruit; (2) fly feeding, frass, or host‐marking pheromone deposited on the orange surface; (3) larval activity inside the fruit; (4) the larvae themselves; and (5) fungi associated with infestation of oranges. Habitat cues associated with host activity and those produced by rotten oranges or oranges colonized by fungi were highly attractive for female wasps, whereas odours associated with the activity of the adults on the surface of the fruit, and those released by the fruit after being damaged (as happens during fruit fly egg‐laying) were not used as cues by female parasitoids. Once the female had landed on the fruit, direct cues associated with larval activity became important although some indirect signals (e.g., products derived from larval activity inside the fruit) also increased host searching activity. Our findings indicate that naïve D. longicaudata uses chemical cues during host habitat searching and that these cues are produced both by the habitat and by the host larvae.
Demonstration of long‐term memory in the parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis
Authors: Schurmann Daria , Sommer Carolin , Schinko Alexander P. B. , Greschista Monika , Smid Hans , Steidle Johannes L. M. 
Published: April 2012

AbstractWe studied the formation of protein synthesis‐dependent long‐term memory (LTM) in the parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis Walker (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), a parasitoid of fly pupae. Female wasps were trained in one of five different training procedures in the presence of hosts and the odour cinnamon. Six days later the reaction of the wasps towards the odour was tested in a static four‐chamber olfactometer. When wasps were trained by a single drilling experience we could not find any reaction to cinnamon after 6 days. In contrast, when wasps were trained either via drilling plus host feeding, three drilling events (spaced training), 1 h training, or 24 h training including oviposition, they significantly preferred cinnamon 6 days later. Wasps which were injected the transcription inhibitor actinomycin D after a 1‐h training to block protein synthesis showed normal memory retention up to 3 days, but did not react to cinnamon after 4 and 6 days. Control experiments showed no influence of actinomycin D on the natural behaviour and the general odour discrimination ability of N. vitripennis. This demonstrates that protein synthesis‐dependent LTM has been formed. To our knowledge this is the first time that LTM formation after drilling plus host feeding but without oviposition is demonstrated in a parasitic wasp. These results were combined with additional findings about anaesthesia‐sensitive memory, anaesthesia‐resistant memory, and intermediate memory to develop a multiphase model of memory dynamics in N. vitripennis and to discuss ecological adaptations of memory formation in N. vitripennis and other parasitic wasp species.
Interaction between crystalline proteins of two Bacillus thuringiensis strains against Spodoptera exigua
Authors: Konecka Edyta , Baranek Jakub , Kaznowski Adam , Ziemnicka Jadwiga , Ziemnicki Kazimierz 
Published: April 2012

AbstractThe aim of the present article was to evaluate potential synergism between crystalline proteins produced by two Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner strains, MPU B6 and MPU B9, against beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Protein inclusions of bacterial strains were isolated from a spore‐crystal mixture. We estimated the 50% lethal concentration (LC50) of crystals for S. exigua larvae. Insecticidal activity of MPU B6 and MPU B9 individual crystal preparations against caterpillars were determined and compared with the commercial pesticide Foray. Protein crystals of MPU B9 had the highest toxicity against S. exigua. The proteins were approximately 25× more toxic than Foray. Insecticidal activity of protein crystals of MPU B6 isolate was approximately 2.5× higher than that of Foray. A mixture of crystals suspensions of both isolates MPU B6/MPU B9 had an additive effect on S. exigua caterpillars. The high insecticidal potency of B. thuringiensis MPU B9 crystals against S. exigua predisposes the strain for additional studies on production of a new effective preparation against pest insects.
Oslo and Its Aftermath: Lessons Learned from Track Two Diplomacy
Authors: Çuhadar Esra , Dayton Bruce W. 
Published: April 2012

Since the collapse of the Oslo peace process and the violence that followed, many scholars have reflected upon the Israeli–Palestinian peace process. Most of this analysis has focused on official negotiations without considering the substantial role that unofficial peace efforts have played in peacebuilding, both prior to and after Oslo. This article, in contrast, seeks to better understand the application of “track two” diplomacy to the Israeli–Palestinian case. It reports on a self‐reflection effort by numerous Israeli–Palestinian peace practitioners to better understand what has worked, what has not, and how new initiatives could be more effectively organized and carried out in the future. The research presented is based on an inventory of seventy‐nine track two projects that occurred between Israelis and Palestinians between 1992 and 2004, personal interviews with many of those who organized and oversaw these projects, and two focus group meetings that brought together a total of forty practitioners.In this article, we seek to better understand two issues: (1) how track two initiatives have changed in scope, organization, and intent; and (2) how track two practitioners have sought to disseminate their work beyond the participants of those initiatives. Our findings present an overall picture of the Israeli–Palestinian second track practice and identify a number of trends and common types of practice.Among the trends we have identified are the following: during the peace process years, more track two initiatives were undertaken with elite/professional participants than with representatives of the grassroots, but in the subsequent decade‐and‐a‐half, Israeli–Palestinian grassroots, track two initiatives gradually replaced senior‐level track two exchanges; most of the grassroots initiatives we studied were relationship focused, whereas those involving elite participants are outcome focused; the track two community subscribes to a set of theoretical propositions about which conditions and contexts facilitate the transmission of track two insights and ideas to the political process, but these propositions have yet to be validated; and track two specialists do little strategic planning about ways to most effectively transfer track two insights and ideas to the political process. Our research also identified four distinct, but not mutually exclusive, approaches to practice: the psychological, the constructivist, the capacity building, and the realistic interest.
Contact allergy to dental materials
Authors: Raap Ulrike , Stiesch Meike , Kapp Alexander 
Published: April 2012

SummaryThe oral mucosa is constantly exposed to a large number of potentially irritating and sensitizing dental materials. Dental materials used for fillings and fixed or removable replacements must have a good biocompatibility. Metals including palladium are used in alloys for the production of the core of crowns, onto which porcelain is bonded for the generation of an artificial tooth to which the patient can develop an allergic contact dermatitis. The clinical manifestations of contact allergy to dental materials are not uniform. Objective symptoms of a contact allergy include a stomatitis and lichenoid reactions. However, patients may present with more subjective affections of the oral mucosa including burning, pain and dryness which need to be differentiated from a real contact allergic reaction. In this article we focus on the management of contact allergy to dental materials.
Mapping invasive woody species in coastal dunes in the Netherlands: a remote sensing approach using LIDAR and high‐resolution aerial photographs
Authors: Hantson Wouter , Kooistra Lammert , Slim Pieter A. 
Published: April 2012

AbstractQuestionsDoes remote sensing improve classification of invasive woody species in dunes, useful for shrub management? Does additional height information and an object‐based classifier increase woody species classification accuracy?LocationThe dunes of Vlieland, one of the Wadden Sea Islands, the Netherlands.MethodsExtensive monitoring using optical remote sensing and LIDAR deliver large amounts of high‐quality data to observe and manage coastal dunes as a defence against the sea in the Netherlands. Using these additional data could increase the accuracy of vegetation mapping and monitoring in coastal areas. In this study, a remote sensing approach has been developed to deliver detailed and standardized maps of (invasive) woody species in the dunes of Vlieland using multispectral aerial photographs and vegetation height derived from LIDAR. Three classification methods were used: maximum likelihood (ML) classification using aerial photographs, ML classification combined with vegetation heights derived from LIDAR (ML+) and object‐based (OB) classification.ResultsThe use of vegetation height from the LIDAR data increased the overall classification accuracy from 39% to 50%, but particularly improved classification of the taller woody species. The object‐based classification increased the overall accuracy of the ML+ from 50% to 60%. The object‐based results are comparable to human visual analysis while offering automated analysis.ConclusionsOverall, the object‐based classification delivers detailed maps of the woody species that are useful for management and evaluation of alien and invasive species in dune ecosystems.
Short‐term side effects of 0.2% alcohol‐free chlorhexidine mouthrinse in geriatric patients: a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: López‐Jornet Pia , Plana‐Ramon Emilia , Leston Juan Seoane , Pons‐Fuster Alvaro 
Published: April 2012

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2012.00671.x

Short‐term side effects of 0.2% alcohol‐free chlorhexidine mouthrinse in geriatric patients: a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Objective:  To determine the effects of a 0.2% alcohol‐free chlorhexidine mouthwash applied twice a day during 30 days in patients over 65 years of age.Materials and methods:  A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study was made of 70 denture wearers over 65 years of age. The study subjects were randomly assigned to one of the two groups (chlorhexidine or placebo). The patients were instructed to complete a first whitening phase with a duration of 1 week, followed by a 30‐day treatment period. The following data were collected: Silness and Löe plaque index, gingival index, the number of colony‐forming units of Candida albicans at the start and end of treatment and the possible adverse effects of chlorhexidine.Results:  Significant differences were observed in the evolution of the Silness and Löe plaque index and gingival index in the two groups, as well as in the number of colony‐forming units of C. albicans between the start and end of treatment.Conclusions:  These results suggest that the clinical benefits of antiplaque, antigingivitis mouthrinses in both study groups.
Effect of Online Journal Club on Evidence‐Based Practice Knowledge, Intent, and Utilization in School Nurses
Authors: Sortedahl Charlotte 
Published: April 2012

ABSTRACTBackground: In the United States, an estimated 73,697 school nurses provide leadership in the provision of health care in the school setting. School nurses face challenges, such as providing quality health care in an educational setting and working in isolation. Journal clubs are one strategy to help incorporate evidence into practice.Aim: An online school nurse journal club for school nurses was conducted as a pilot project to determine feasibility for replication and potential expansion.Objectives: To determine if an online journal club changed knowledge of, and intent to use evidence. To determine if school nurses used the evidence in practice and felt more connected to colleagues.Methods: Three synchronous online journal club sessions were conducted for school nurses across three states. Thirty‐five registered nurses enrolled and participation varied by session. Self‐report surveys were used.Results: Participants increased their knowledge of evidence‐based practice and shared evidence with stakeholders. Participants intended to and did use evidence in practice, including prioritizing based on evidence. Collegial connections increased. One of the most successful features was connecting authors of the articles directly to participants.Conclusions: A school nurse online journal club is one strategy to bring evidence to practitioners. Technology exists for nurses experiencing practice isolation to connect through online avenues. Nursing researchers, educators, and administrators seeking to disseminate research to school nurses or other clinical specialties could replicate or expand this project. Expanding online journal clubs would allow busy clinicians to connect with colleagues and researchers to integrate evidence into practice.
High-intensity Erotic Visual Stimuli De-activate the Primary Visual Cortex in Women
Authors: Huynh Hieu K. , Beers Caroline , Willemsen Antoon , Lont Erna , Laan Ellen , Dierckx Rudi , Jansen Monique , Sand Michael , Weijmar Schultz Willibrord , Holstege Gert 
Published: April 2012

ABSTRACT

Introduction
The primary visual cortex, Brodmann’s area (BA 17), plays a vital role in basic survival mechanisms in humans. In most neuro-imaging studies in which the volunteers have to watch pictures or movies, the primary visual cortex is similarly activated independent of the content of the pictures or movies. However, in case the volunteers perform demanding non-visual tasks, the primary visual cortex becomes de-activated, although the amount of incoming visual sensory information is the same.

Aim
Do low- and high-intensity erotic movies, compared to neutral movies, produce similar de-activation of the primary visual cortex?

Methods
Brain activation/de-activation was studied by Positron Emission Tomography scanning of the brains of 12 healthy heterosexual premenopausal women, aged 18–47, who watched neutral, low- and high-intensity erotic film segments.

Main Outcome Measures
We measured differences in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in the primary visual cortex during watching neutral, low-intensity erotic, and high-intensity erotic film segments.

Results
Watching high-intensity erotic, but not low-intensity erotic movies, compared to neutral movies resulted in strong de-activation of the primary (BA 17) and adjoining parts of the secondary visual cortex.

Conclusions
The strong de-activation during watching high-intensity erotic film might represent compensation for the increased blood supply in the brain regions involved in sexual arousal, also because high-intensity erotic movies do not require precise scanning of the visual field, because the impact is clear to the observer.
Role of Oxidative Stress in a Rat Model of Radiation-Induced Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Kimura Masaki , Rabbani Zahid N. , Zodda Andrew R. , Yan Hui , Jackson Isabel L. , Polascik Thomas J. , Donatucci Craig F. , Moul Judd W. , Vujaskovic Zeljko , Koontz Bridget F. 
Published: April 2012

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Chronic oxidative stress is one of the major factors playing an important role in radiation-induced normal tissue injury. However, the role of oxidative stress in radiation-induced erectile dysfunction (ED) has not been fully investigated.

Aims
To investigate role of oxidative stress after prostate-confined irradiation in a rat model of radiation-induced ED.

Methods
Fifty-four young adult male rats (10–12 weeks of age) were divided into age-matched sham radiotherapy (RT) and RT groups. Irradiated animals received prostate-confined radiation in a single 20 Gy fraction.

Main Outcome Measures
Intracavernous pressure (ICP) measurements with cavernous nerve electrical stimulation were conducted at 2, 4, and 9 weeks following RT. The protein expression of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase subunits (Nox4 and gp91phox), markers of oxidative DNA damage (8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine [8-OHdG]), lipid peroxidation (4-hydroxynonenal [4HNE]), and inflammatory response including inducible nitric oxide synthase, macrophage activation (ED-1), and nitrotyrosine, and endogenous antioxidant defense by nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) were evaluated in irradiated prostate tissue and corpora cavernosa (CC). In addition, we investigated the relationships between results of ICP/mean arterial pressure (MAP) ratios and expression level of oxidative stress markers.

Results
In the RT group, hemodynamic functional studies demonstrated a significant time-dependent decrease in ICP. Increased expression of Nox4, gp91phox, 8-OHdG, and 4HNE were observed in the prostate and CC after RT. Similarly, expressions of inflammatory markers were significantly increased. There was a trend for increased Nrf2 after 4 weeks. ICP/MAP ratio negatively correlated with higher expression level of oxidative markers.

Conclusions
NADPH oxidase activation and chronic oxidative stress were observed in irradiated prostate tissue and CC, which correlated with lower ICP/MAP ratio. Persistent inflammatory responses were also found in both tissues after RT. These findings suggest that oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the development of radiation-induced ED.
Toggle rod stabilisation of coxofemoral luxation in 14 cats
Authors: Pratesi A. , Grierson J. , Moores A. P. 
Published: April 2012

Objectives: To describe the surgical technique and to report outcomes in cats with coxofemoral luxation treated with open reduction and toggle rod stabilisation.Methods: Retrospective study of cats with coxofemoral luxation stabilised via the toggle rod method. Short‐term follow‐up included clinical examination and radiographs. Long‐term follow‐up was via owner questionnaire.Results: Fourteen cats were included. All of the cats had reported unilateral craniodorsal hip luxation. Nine cats (64·3%) had additional orthopaedic injuries. Luxations were stabilised with a 3·2‐mm toggle rod (2·7‐mm toggle rod in one cat) and two loops of four‐metric polydioxanone (five‐metric polydioxanone in one cat and three loops of four‐metric polydioxanone in two cats). Success rate, in terms of maintenance of reduction, was 86%. Reluxation occurred in two cats (14%), both of which had multiple limb injuries. Eleven owner questionnaires (mean follow‐up time 15·5 months) reported a functional outcome of “very good” to “excellent”. Although the diameter of the pelvic canal was reduced by the presence of the toggle rod (mean narrowing 16.2%), none of the cats had defaecatory issues.ClinicalSignificance: Toggle rod stabilisation is an effective method for the treatment of coxofemoral luxation in cats. Injuries to multiple limbs may be a risk factor for reluxation.
Clinicopathological study of canine transmissible venereal tumour in leishmaniotic dogs
Authors: Marino G. , Gaglio G. , Zanghì A. 
Published: April 2012

Introduction: Canine transmissible venereal tumour is occasionally observed in leishmaniotic dogs, and Leishmania amastigotes can be harboured in canine transmissible venereal tumour cells.Objectives: The aim of this paper was to investigate the clinicopathological significance of the association of both diseases.Methods: Nineteen dogs affected by canine transmissible venereal tumour and canine leishmaniasis were studied retrospectively.Results: In these dogs, the tumour manifested a large size and often aggressive behaviour (42%) and no predictive sign of spontaneous regression was observed. Sporadic Leishmania amastigotes were found within the canine transmissible venereal tumour in three cases, probably transported by infected macrophages often infiltrating the tumour. A high Leishmania parasitisation of canine transmissible venereal tumour was observed in two other cases and verified by immunohistochemistry.Clinical Significance: Canine transmissible venereal tumour is a tumour of the dog able to harbour a large number of Leishmania parasites. Alternatively, the systemic disease (canine leishmaniasis) may lower the immune defence against malignancy (canine transmissible venereal tumour).
Effect of body size on energy reserves in Culex pipiens pallens females (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: SHIN Sun‐Mi , AKRAM Waseem , LEE Jong‐Jin 
Published: April 2012

AbstractWe examined the relationship between body size and energy reserves of female Culex pipiens pallens under laboratory conditions. Small and large‐sized adult mosquitoes were obtained from larvae reared at different densities. There was a significantly positive relationship between pupal body weight and adult wing length depending on body sizes. Studies showed large females contained significantly higher contents of glycogen and lipid but lower protein stores in comparison to small females. Large sized mosquitoes accumulated higher percentages of glycogen (21.2% vs 15.9%) and lipid (45.8% vs 30.7%) but lower levels of protein (33.0% vs 53.4%) than small females. This result suggests that larval‐derived glycogen and lipid stores may be important in determining the body size of female Cx. pipiens pallens.