bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A miniature X‐ray tube approach to measuring lead in bone using L‐XRF
Authors: Fleming David E. B. , Gherase Mihai R. , Alexander Kevin M. 
Published: July 2011

AbstractUsing a miniature X‐ray tube and silicon PiN diode detector, an approach to measuring lead (Pb) in bone phantoms was tested. The X‐ray tube was used to excite L‐line X‐ray fluorescence (L‐XRF) of lead in bone phantoms. The bone phantoms were made from plaster of Paris and dosed with varying quantities of lead. Phantoms were made in two sets with different shapes to model different bone surfaces. One set of bone phantoms was circular in cross‐section (2.5‐cm diameter), the other square in cross‐section (2.2 cm × 2.2 cm). Using an irradiation time of 180 s (real time), five trials were run for each bone phantom. Analysis was performed for both Lα and Lβ lead X‐rays. Based on these calibration trials, (3σ0/slope) minimum detection limits of 7.4 ± 0.3 µg Pb g−1 (circular cross‐section) and 8.6 ± 0.6 µg Pb g−1 (square cross‐section) were determined for the bare bone phantoms. To simulate a more realistic in vivo scenario with soft tissue overlying bone, further trials were performed with a resin material placed between the experimental system and the bone phantom. For the square cross‐section bone phantoms, a layer of resin with a thickness of 1.2 mm was used, and a minimum detection limit of 17 ± 3 µg Pb g−1 determined. For the circular cross‐section phantoms, a layer of resin with an average thickness of 2.7 mm was used. From these, a more realistic minimum detection limit for in vivo applications (43 ± 7 µg Pb g−1) was determined. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Non‐destructive analysis using PXRF: methodology and application to archaeological ceramics
Authors: Forster Nicola , Grave Peter , Vickery Nancy , Kealhofer Lisa 
Published: July 2011

AbstractUncritical application of portable X‐ray fluorescence (PXRF) to non‐destructive analysis of archaeological ceramics has been received with scepticism. In this article, we present a methodological evaluation of the parameters and constraints for PXRF analysis of archaeological ceramics. We use experimental matrices that simulate characteristics of archaeological artefacts to demonstrate the impact of (1) surface morphology, (2) organic surface coatings and (3) grain size and mineralogy on non‐destructive PXRF analysis. We then apply these parameters to PXRF analysis of heterogeneous handmade ceramics from central Turkey. We conclude that with appropriate methodology, non‐destructive PXRF analysis can be demonstrated to provide a high level of accurate and precise geochemical discrimination for archaeological ceramics. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The risk factors of fungal infection in living‐donor liver transplantations
Authors: Ohkubo Takao , Sugawara Yasuhiko , Takayama Tadatoshi , Kokudo Norihiro , Makuuchi Masatoshi 
Published: July 2011

AbstractPurposeThe aim of the study was to retrospectively assess in a Japanese university hospital the risk factors for fungal infections and mortality in living‐donor liver transplantations (LDLTs). Although fungal infections are an important complication associated with high mortality in liver transplantation, the risk factors for fungal infections developing after LDLT remain poorly understood.MethodsPatient records for a total of 156 patients undergoing LDLT over a 6‐year period in our institution were retrospectively evaluated. All transplant recipients were routinely observed for fungal infections with close monitoring for febrile episodes and collection and culture of saliva, pharynx, sputum, urine, feces, and drain discharge specimens undertaken. Fungal infection was defined as proposed by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group. Patients with definite or probable infection were diagnosed as having specific invasive fungal infection in this study. Data were reviewed and collated from these patients' records, and multivariate analyses were performed to identify possible risk factors for mortality and the development of fungal infections.ResultsNineteen of 156 patients (12.2%) developed invasive fungal infections, involving Candidaspp. (n = 13), Pneumocystis jiroveci (n = 4), and Aspergillusspp. (n = 2). Eight of these 19 patients died, 4 from pneumonia, and 1 each from cerebral hemorrhage, chronic rejection, virus‐associated hemophagocytic syndrome, and cancer recurrence. The 5‐year survival rate was significantly lower in patients with fungal infections than in those without (53 vs. 90%;p < 0.001). Fungal infection was independently associated with reoperation (odds ratio 6.92, 1.82—26.27, p = 0.004), posttransplant dialysis (5.62, 1.51—20.88, p = 0.009), and bacterial infection (3.94, 1.02—15.26, p = 0.04).ConclusionIndependent risk factors of fungal infection after LDLT are reoperation, posttransplant dialysis, and bacterial infection.
Exploring Outcomes through Narrative: The Long‐term Impacts of Better Beginnings, Better Futures on the Turning Point Stories of Youth at Ages 18–19
Authors: Nelson Geoffrey , Van Andel Ashley K. , Curwood Susan Eckerle , Hasford Julian , Love Norah , Pancer S. Mark , Loomis Colleen 
Published: July 2011

AbstractThis study examined the long‐term effects of the Better Beginnings, Better Futures project, a community‐based early childhood development program, on 18–19 year‐old youths’ narratives about turning points in their lives. The sample consisted of youth who participated in Better Beginnings from ages 4–8 (n = 62) and youth from a comparison community who did not participate in Better Beginnings (n = 34). Controlling for covariates, significant differences favoring youth from the Better Beginnings sites were found on several dimensions of the turning point stories: ending resolution, personal growth, meaning‐making, coherence, and affect transformation. Effect sizes ranged from .45 to .76 for these outcome dimensions, indicating moderate to large effects. Also, turning point story dimensions were found to be significantly correlated with two standardized measures of well‐being: youths’ self‐esteem and community involvement. Youths’ self‐esteem was directly related to story ending resolution, personal growth, and meaning making, and youths’ community involvement was directly related to story specificity, meaning making, and coherence. Family functioning was also examined in relation to these narrative dimensions but was not found to be significantly related to them. The findings suggest the utility of a narrative approach for the evaluation of the long‐term outcomes of early childhood development programs.
Systems wide analyses of lipids in the brainstem during inflammatory orofacial pain – Evidence of increased phospholipase A2 activity
Authors: Ma M.‐T. , Yeo J.‐F. , Shui G. , Wenk M.R. , Ong W.‐Y. 
Published: July 2011

AbstractRecent studies suggest that CNS phospholipase A2 (PLA2) isoforms play a role in nociception, but until now, direct evidence of increased brain PLA2 activity during allodynia or hyperalgesia is lacking. The present study was carried out, using lipidomics or systems wide analyses of lipids using tandem mass spectrometry, to elucidate possible changes in rat brain lipids after inflammatory pain induced by facial carrageenan injection. The caudal medulla oblongata showed decreases in phospholipids including phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylinositol species, but increases in lysophospholipids, including lysophosphatidylethanolamine, lysophosphatidylinositol and lysophosphatidylserine, indicating increased PLA2 activity and release of arachidonic acid after facial carrageenan injection. These changes likely occur in the spinal trigeminal nucleus which relays nociceptive input from the orofacial region. High levels of sPLA2‐III, sPLA2‐XIIA, cPLA2 and iPLA2 mRNA expression were detected in the medulla oblongata. Increase in sPLA2‐III mRNA expression was found in the caudal medulla of carrageenan‐injected rats, although no difference in sPLA2‐III protein expression was detected. The changes in lipids as determined by lipidomics were therefore consistent with an increase in PLA2 enzyme activity, but no change in enzyme protein expression. Together, these findings indicate enhanced PLA2 activity in the caudal medulla oblongata after inflammatory orofacial pain.
Maternal mortality in Greece, 1996–2006
Authors: Vrachnis Nikolaos , Iliodromiti Stamatina , Samoli Evi , Iliodromiti Zoe , Dendrinos Spyridon , Creatsas Georgios 
Published: July 2011

AbstractObjectiveTo present retrospective data for maternal deaths in Greece from 1996 to 2006.MethodsDemographic information and information on the causes of death was provided by the Hellenic Statistical Authority. Maternal deaths were assessed by cause of death, maternal age, and place of residence. The maternal mortality ratio (MMR) was estimated and expressed as the number of deaths per 100 000 live births.ResultsFrom 1996 to 2006, 29 deaths were attributed to pregnancy and childbirth, yielding a total MMR of 2.63. The leading cause of direct deaths was hemorrhage and that of indirect deaths was cardiac disease. There was a borderline significant decline in the MMR during the study period. The MMR was significantly higher at the extremes of the reproductive age range.ConclusionMaternal mortality in Greece is low; however, no formal data have been published since 1996. Knowledge of the causes of maternal death can lead to the prevention of maternal deaths and safer motherhood.
Serum homocysteine and dementia: Meta‐analysis of eight cohort studies including 8669 participants
Authors: Wald David S. , Kasturiratne Anuradhani , Simmonds Mark 
Published: July 2011

BackgroundProspective cohort studies have not been consistent in showing an association between serum homocysteine and dementia.ObjectiveTo conduct a meta‐analysis of cohort studies that examined the relationship between serum homocysteine and dementia, and to estimate the change in risk of dementia for a unit change in serum homocysteine.MethodsThe data from eight cohort studies (involving 8669 participants; range of mean ages, 47–81 years; median duration of study, 5 years) of serum homocysteine on the incidence of dementia were combined and the odds ratio of dementia per 5 μmol/L increase in serum homocysteine was determined.ResultsThere was a statistically significant association between serum homocysteine and the incidence of dementia: the odds ratio for a 5 μmol/L increase in serum homocysteine was 1.35 (95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.79) or 1.50 (1.13–2.00) adjusted for regression dilution bias. The odds ratio for a 3 μmol/L decrease in serum homocysteine (the average reduction expected using folic acid and B12) was 0.78 (0.66–0.93).ConclusionThe meta‐analysis of epidemiological cohort studies shows a positive association between serum homocysteine and dementia. Although the results do not provide evidence of cause and effect, they do provide an estimate of the expected effect if the relationship were causal; an approximate 20% reduction in risk of dementia from treatment with folic acid and B12.
Protein restriction during pregnancy induces hypertension in adult female rat offspring – influence of oestradiol
Authors: Sathishkumar K. , Elkins Rebekah , Yallampalli Uma , Yallampalli Chandra 
Published: July 2011

We previously reported that gestational dietary protein restriction in rats causes sex-related differences in development of blood pressure (BP) in the offspring, which is more pronounced in males than in females. As such effects may depend on sex hormones, we investigated the role of oestradiol in the development of hypertension in female offspring of protein-restricted dams. Female offspring of pregnant rats fed normal (20 %) or protein-restricted (6 %) casein diets throughout pregnancy were kept either intact, ovariectomised or ovariectomised with oestradiol supplementation. BP, Plasma oestradiol and testosterone levels, and vascular oestrogen receptor (ER) were examined. BP was significantly higher and plasma oestradiol levels were significantly lower ( − 34 %) in intact protein-restricted female offspring compared to corresponding controls. Further decrease in oestradiol levels by ovariectomy exacerbated hypertension in the protein-restricted females, with an earlier onset and more prominent elevation in BP compared to controls. Oestradiol supplementation in ovariectomised protein-restricted females significantly reversed ovariectomy-induced hypertension but did not normalise BP to control levels. The hypertensive protein-restricted females have reduced vascular ERα expression that was unaffected by ovariectomy or oestradiol replacement. In addition, testosterone levels were significantly higher by 2·4-, 3·4- and 2·8-fold in intact, ovariectomised and oestradiol-replaced protein-restricted females compared to corresponding controls. The present data show that: (1) hypertension in protein-restricted adult female offspring is associated with reduced plasma oestradiol levels; (2) oestradiol protects and limits the severity of hypertension in protein-restricted females and contributes to sexual dimorphism; (3) oestradiol replacement fails to completely reverse hypertension, which may be related to limited availability of vascular ERα receptors and/or increased circulating testosterone levels.
Glycaemic response to barley porridge varying in dietary fibre content
Authors: Thondre Pariyarath S. , Wang Ke , Rosenthal Andrew J. , Henry Christiani J. K. 
Published: July 2011

The interest in barley as a food is increasing worldwide because of its high dietary fibre (DF) content and low glycaemic index (GI). DF in cereals may prove beneficial in improving blood glucose response in the long term. However, a dose-dependent effect of insoluble fibre on reducing postprandial blood glucose levels is yet to be proven. The objective of the present study was to determine the glycaemic response to two barley porridges prepared from whole barley grains varying in fibre content. In two separate non-blind randomised crossover trials, ten human subjects consumed barley porridge with 16 g/100 g and 10 g/100 g fibre content provided in different serving sizes (equivalent to 25 and 50 g available carbohydrate). The glycaemic response to both barley porridges was significantly lower than the reference glucose (P < 0·05). There was no significant difference between the glucose areas under the curve or GI for the two barley porridges. We concluded that irrespective of the difference in total fibre content or serving size of barley porridges, their GI values did not differ significantly.
THE ISLAMIC PUBLIC SPHERE AND THE DISCIPLINE OFADAB
Authors: McLarney Ellen 
Published: July 2011

AbstractRecently, there have been many compelling new theories of the emergence of an “Islamic public sphere.” Few studies, however, have examined the role of literary writing in contributing to its emergence, even though such writing was critical to the intellectual elite's shift toward Islamic subjects in mid-20th century Egypt. In addition, little of this scholarship has examined the gendered nature of this public sphere in any depth, though gendered rights, roles, and responsibilities were among the most hotly contested debates in public discourses on religion. This article looks at how literary writing not only shaped particular interpretations of gendered relationships in Islam but also developed hermeneutical techniques for reinterpreting religious sources. It specifically examines the work of Egyptian literary scholar and Islamic thinker Bint al-Shatiʾ and how her writings helped define the nature of the family, gender relations, and the private sphere in Islamic public discourse.
WOMEN PREACHING FOR THE SECULAR STATE: OFFICIAL FEMALE PREACHERS (BAYAN VAIZLER) IN CONTEMPORARY TURKEY
Authors: Hassan Mona 
Published: July 2011

AbstractNearly one-third of Turkey's official preaching workforce are women. Their numbers have risen considerably over the past two decades, fueled by an unforeseen feminization of higher religious education as well as the Directorate of Religious Affairs’ attempts to redress its historical gender imbalances. Created in the early Turkish Republic, the Directorate is also historically embedded in (re)defining the appropriate domains and formations of religion, and the female preachers it now employs navigate people's potent fears rooted in memories of this fraught past. In the various neighborhoods of Istanbul, these preachers attempt to overcome conservative Muslims’ cautious ambivalence toward the interpretative and disciplinary powers of a secular state as well as assertive secularists’ discomfort and suspicion over increasingly visible manifestations of religiosity. Thus, the activities of state-sponsored female preachers are inescapably intertwined with the contestation of religious domains and authority in the secular Republic of Turkey and demonstrate an intricate interplay between the politics of religion, gender, and secularism in contemporary Turkish society.
Computational derivation of valid kinematic limbs of spatial 3-DOF parallel mechanisms without redundant constraint
Authors: Lu Yi , Lu Yang , Ding Ling , Ye Nijia 
Published: July 2011

SUMMARYA computational derivation of valid kinematic limbs for spatial 3-DOF parallel mechanisms (PMs) without redundant constraint is studied based on contracted graphs, topological graphs, and basic joints. First, some contracted graphs without any binary links are constructed, some curves with only binary links are distributed over contracted graphs and many valid topological graphs are derived. Second, a software is developed in Visual Basic for deriving the kinematic limb, and some basic chain structures are constructed by connecting various basic joints in series. Third, all valid kinematic limbs of the 3-DOF PMs without redundant constraint are derived computationally from the basic chain structures and some novel 3-DOF PMs are synthesized using this approach. Finally, the number of the different 3-DOF PMs without redundant constraint are determined based on the topological graphs and valid chain structures of the limb.
Conserving outside protected areas: edge effects and avian electrocutions on the periphery of Special Protection Areas
Authors: PÉREZ-GARCÍA JUAN M. , BOTELLA FRANCISCO , SÁNCHEZ-ZAPATA JOSÉ A. , MOLEÓN MARCOS 
Published: July 2011

SummaryElectrocution on power lines is one of the principal problems facing raptors and other medium- and large-sized birds at the global scale. The recent European-based Spanish state legislation on avian electrocutions has focused on Special Protection Areas (SPA). Here we evaluate whether this policy has been successful, using the Community of Valencia, Spain, as a regional model. We compiled a database of 400 electrocution events from information on electrocuted birds taken into Wildlife Recovery Centres and incidents registered by the main local power company during the last decade. A small proportion (c.18%) of electrocution casualties occurred within SPA boundaries but the 5 km wide belt immediately surrounding the SPAs produced more than three times the number of avian electrocutions (c.60% of the total recorded). This was probably caused by higher densities of both power lines and susceptible birds, and higher use of the pylons for perching and roosting in the areas surrounding the SPAs. We therefore conclude that the focus on preventative measures being applied within SPAs is inefficient and that action should be targeted in these peripheral areas. Our results illustrate a classic problem of an edge effect associated with a protected area, where external human influences directly affect the persistence of protected species within reserves. Equally, they support the idea that management strategies within parks cannot be independent of the human activities surrounding them.
The cultures of archaeoastronomy and the history of science
Authors: McCluskey Stephen C. 
Published: July 2011

AbstractThis essay draws on the skeptical opinions that some historians of science have of archaeoastronomy, on historians' changing interpretations of proper historical method, and on their varied understandings of the nature of science to discuss how these methodological issues apply to archaeoastronomy. The essay argues that archaeoastronomical research should bear as much attention to the external context of early astronomies as it does to their internal content, suggesting specifically that insights into the origins of science can be gained by paying greater attention to the practitioners of early astronomies—to the skywatchers.
Ethnoastronomy as an academic field: a framework for a South American program
Authors: López Alejandro Martín 
Published: July 2011

AbstractWe present some methodological reflections based upon twelve years' experience working in South American ethnoastronomy. The aim is to propose a basis for a possible development plan for ethnoastronomy in this region. Taking as axiomatic that ethnoastronomy is a social science, we discuss issues such as the process of development of an academic discipline, the links between ethno- and archaeoastronomy, the idea of ‘otherness’, ethnographic methodology, the relevance of logics of practice, the relationship between orality and writing, and the dialectic relationship between change and continuity. In addition, we discuss possible ways to achieve the institutionalization of ethnoastronomy. We conclude by considering the importance of regional and international academic exchange.
A eucalyptus in the moon: folk astronomy among European colonists in northern Santa Fe province, Argentina
Authors: Mudrik Armando 
Published: July 2011

AbstractIn this paper, we present a study about cultural astronomy among European colonists who settled in the northern area of the Argentinean province of Santa Fe, which is part of the southern Chaco. These colonists arrived among waves of immigration occurring in Argentina in the second half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century. Ethnographic field research among these rural immigrants and their descendants revealed that a set of asterisms were distributed according to the origins of the different European communities and also according to their uses in agriculture, animal husbandry and meteorology.