bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coarse grain lipid–protein molecular interactions and diffusion with MsbA flippase
Authors: Ward Andrew B. , Guvench Olgun , Hills Ronald D.
Published: May 2012

Coarse‐grained (CG) modeling has proven effective for simulating lipid bilayer dynamics on scales of biological interest. Modeling the dynamics of flexible membrane proteins within the bilayer, on the other hand, poses a considerable challenge due to the complexity of the folding or conformational landscape. In the present work, the multiscale coarse‐graining method is applied to atomistic peptide‐lipid “soup” simulations to develop a general set of CG protein–lipid interaction potentials. The reduced model was constructed to be compatible with recent solvent‐free CG models developed for protein–protein folding and lipid–lipid model bilayer interactions. The utility of the force field was demonstrated by molecular dynamics simulation of the MsbA ABC transporter in a mixed DOPC/DOPE bilayer. An elastic network was parameterized to restrain the MsbA dimer in its open, closed and hydrolysis intermediate conformations and its impact on domain flexibility was examined. Conformational stability enabled long‐time dynamics simulation of MsbA freely diffusing in a 25 nm membrane patch. Three‐dimensional density analysis revealed that a shell of weakly bound “annular lipids” solvate the membrane accessible surface of MsbA and its internal substrate‐binding chamber. The annular lipid binding modes, along with local perturbations in head group structure, are a function of the orientation of grooves formed between transmembrane helices and may influence the alternating access mechanism of substrate entry and translocation. Proteins 2012; © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of piperidine and piperideine alkaloids from the venom of red imported fire ants, Solenopsis invicta Buren, on Pythium ultimum Trow growth in vitro and the application of piperideine alkaloids to control cucumber damping‐off in the greenhouse
Authors: Li Shezeng , Jin Xixuan , Chen Jian
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND: Pythium ultimum is a plant pathogen that causes significant yield losses on many economically important crops. Chemical treatment has been used for disease control. In searching for alternatives, venom piperidine and piperideine alkaloids from red imported fire ants were tested against P. ultimum in vitro, and piperideines were employed to control cucumber damping‐off in the greenhouse as drench treatments.

Results Piperidine and piperideine alkaloids of the red imported fire ant significantly inhibited mycelium growth of P. ultimum. Piperidine alkaloids were stable at both room and elevated temperatures. The inhibitory activity positively correlated with the concentrations of piperidine alkaloids in the medium, and the EC50 = 17.0 µg ml−1. Germination of sporangia of P. ultimum was negatively correlated with the concentrations of piperidine alkaloids in the medium, and the EC50 = 12.3 µg ml−1. The piperideine alkaloid drenching treatment significantly improved seedling emergence and seedling height of cucumber.

CONCLUSION: This is the first report describing the use of venom alkaloids from the red imported fire ant to inhibit P. ultimum in the laboratory and the application of piperideine alkaloids to control damping‐off disease caused by P. ultimum in the greenhouse. These findings may lead to the development of a new group of fungicides. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Enhancement of thermoelectric power factor of MnSi1.7 films by Si addition and modulation doping
Authors: Hou Q. R. , Gu B. F. , Chen Y. B. , He Y. J.
Published: May 2012

Silicon‐added and modulation‐doped higher manganese silicide (HMS, MnSi1.7) films have been prepared on glass substrates by magnetron‐sputtering of MnSi1.85, Si, and Al targets. Silicon‐addition and modulation‐doping are used to enhance the Seebeck coefficient and reduce the electrical resistivity, respectively. Raman spectra indicate that the silicon‐added MnSi1.7 film consists of two phases, crystalline MnSi1.7 and crystalline silicon. It is found that the silicon‐added MnSi1.7 film has a larger Seebeck coefficient (S), but a higher electrical resistivity (ρ) as well. Consequently, the thermoelectric power factor (PF = S2/ρ) is not enhanced, 0.320 × 10−3 W/m K2 at 733 K, and about the same as that of a pure MnSi1.7 film. The silicon‐added MnSi1.7 layer in a modulation‐doped structure Si:Al/MnSi1.7/glass, however, has a higher energy barrier height, a larger Seebeck coefficient, and a lower electrical resistivity. As a result, the thermoelectric power factor is greatly enhanced and can reach 0.573 × 10−3 W/m K2 at 733 K.
Diffusional Behaviour of Essential Oil Components in Active Packaging Polypropylene Films by Multiple Headspace Solid Phase Microextraction–Gas Chromatography
Authors: Licciardello Fabio , Muratore Giuseppe , Mercea Peter , Tosa Valer , Nerin Cristina
Published: May 2012

Essential oils (EOs) are promising substances to be incorporated in food packaging materials as antioxidant and/or antimicrobial agents in active packaging systems. Once incorporated into the materials, their constituent compounds diffuse through the material. However, there is little information about the diffusion behaviour of EOs in plastics, and this is one of the major drawbacks in the design of active packaging relying on EOs as active agents. This study presents a new method for studying the diffusion of basil, citronella, oregano and rosemary EOs into plastic films. Diffusion assays of EOs from a coated polypropylene (PP) film into a stack of virgin PP films were conducted by the Moisan method using up to 10 layers of PP. Direct quantification of diffused analytes from the plastic sheets was performed by multiple headspace solid phase microextraction–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The fitting of experimental data for the main EO components with a Fickian model gave diffusion and partition (between active and virgin PP) coefficients, which are discussed under the light of some intrinsic factors contributing to the diffusion process. The results demonstrate the dependence of diffusion and partition coefficients on the initial concentration of EO components in the coated films, on their molecular weight and on their polarity. In particular, for similar molecular weight and initial concentration, a higher polarity is responsible for a faster diffusion, whereas lower polarity determines the retention of the EO component in the coating layer. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multi‐view predictive partitioning in high dimensions
Authors: McWilliams Brian , Montana Giovanni
Published: May 2012

Many modern data mining applications are concerned with the analysis of datasets in which the observations are described by paired high‐dimensional vectorial representations or ‘views’. Some typical examples can be found in web mining and genomics applications. In this article we present an algorithm for data clustering with multiple views, multi‐view predictive partitioning (MVPP), which relies on a novel criterion of predictive similarity between data points. We assume that, within each cluster, the dependence between multivariate views can be modeled by using a two‐block partial least squares (TB‐PLS) regression model, which performs dimensionality reduction and is particularly suitable for high‐dimensional settings. The proposed MVPP algorithm partitions the data such that the within‐cluster predictive ability between views is maximized. The proposed objective function depends on a measure of predictive influence of points under the TB‐PLS model which has been derived as an extension of the predicted residual sums of squares (PRESS) statistic commonly used in ordinary least squares regression. Using simulated data, we compare the performance of MVPP to that of competing multi‐view clustering methods which rely upon geometric structures of points, but ignore the predictive relationship between the two views. State‐of‐art results are obtained on benchmark web mining datasets. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Statistical Analysis and Data Mining, 2012
Nanoscale Fabrication of the Ferroelectric Polymer Poly(vinylidene Fluoride with Trifluoroethylene) P(VDF‐TrFE) 75:25 Thin Films by Atomic Force Microscope Nanolithography
Authors: Vega Omar , Delgado David , Wong Freddy , Gonzalez Rosette , Rosa Luis G.
Published: May 2012

Thin films of an organic ferroelectric system, poly(vinylidene fluoride with trifluoroethylene) P(VDF‐TrFE, Kureha Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) 75:25 layers, have been deposited on highly ordered pyrolytic graphite and silicon dioxide by the horizontal Schaefer method of Langmuir–Blodgett techniques. It is possible to “shave” or mechanically displace small regions of the polymer film by using atomic force microscope nanolithography techniques such as nanoshaving, leaving swaths of the surface cut to a depth of 4 nm and 12 nm exposing the substrate. The results of fabricating stripes by nanoshaving two holes close to each other show a limit to the material “stripe” widths of an average of 153.29 nm and 177.67 nm that can be produced. Due to the lack of adhesion between the substrates and the polymer P(VDF‐TrFE) film, smaller “stripes” of P(VDF‐TrFE) cannot be produced, and it can be shown by the sequencing of nanoshaved regions that “stripes” of thin films can be removed. SCANNING 34: 404‐409, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Premature Wear of Refractories due to Marangoni‐Convection
Authors: Pötschke Jürgen , Brüggmann Christian
Published: May 2012

The present paper addresses Marangoni‐convection and its influence on the appearance of refractory corrosion. Through the combination of experimental data collected over the past decade and of basic physical relationships a simple model is derived which is further on used to quantitatively describe the kinetics of corrosion for the systems glass/refractory, slag/refractory, and slag/metal/refractory.
Literacy Achievement Through Sustained Professional Development
Authors: Fisher Douglas , Frey Nancy , Nelson John
Published: May 2012

development efforts, the 44 schools in this study increased students' reading proficiency. Over the years, teams of teachers from each school were provided professional development and opportunities to lead their colleagues in implementation of the instructional framework. The teachers used their instructional materials as resources to plan instruction that included purpose, productive group work, and guided instruction. In addition, formative assessments were used to guide instructional interventions. The results indicate that 41 of the 44 schools, up from 9 of the 44 schools in 2002, met the state expectation for accomplished.
An etched multilayer as a dispersive element in a curved‐crystal spectrometer: implementation and performance
Authors: Jonnard P. , Le Guen K. , André J.‐M. , Coudevylle J.‐R. , Isac N.
Published: May 2012

Etched multilayers obtained by forming a laminar grating pattern within interferential multilayer mirrors are used in the soft X‐ray range to improve the spectral resolution of wavelength dispersive spectrometers equipped with periodic multilayers. We describe the fabrication process of such an etched multilayer dispersive element, its characterization through reflectivity measurement and simulations, and its implementation in a high‐resolution Johann‐type spectrometer. The specially designed patterning of a Mo/B4C multilayer is found fruitful in the range of the C K emission as the diffraction pattern narrows by a factor 4 with respect to the non‐etched structure. This dispersive element with an improved spectral resolution was successfully implemented for electronic structure study with an improved spectral resolution by X‐ray emission spectroscopy. As first results, we present the distinction between the chemical states of carbon atoms in various compounds, such as graphite, SiC and B4C, by the different shape of their C K emission band. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A First‐Principles Study on the Existence of Niobium and Tantalum Sesquioxide
Authors: Wessel Claudia , Dronskowski Richard
Published: May 2012

The heretofore nonexistent crystalline sesquioxides of niobium and tantalum were forecast and further investigated by density‐functional theory (GGA, PBE, PAW). The calculations targeted at high‐pressure syntheses predict a reaction pressure of 9 GPa for niobium and 24 GPa for tantalum sesquioxide, respectively, when starting from the stable oxides and the metals. For both compounds the starting [β‐Ga2O3] type leads to the lowest‐energy structure, despite the fact that imaginary phonon frequencies indicate the dynamically unstable character of the eventually found structure type.
Some Analyses and Recommendations on Diet Formulation for Conservation Breeding of the Galapagos Rice Rat of Isla Santiago, Nesoryzomys swarthi
Authors: Wharton Dan , Dowler Robert , Watts Jennifer
Published: May 2012

Nesoryzomys swarthi, the most endangered of the three surviving, endemic Galapagos “rice rats,” was only discovered in the early 20th Century and was considered extinct until its rediscovery in 1997 at a north‐central coastal location on Isla Santiago. Potential threats to the entire genus include invasive rodent species, feral cats, new diseases, and climate change. These threats have been the basis for conservation breeding recommendations (as yet unmet) by several observers during the last several decades. This paper considers likely dietary requirements of N. swarthi in light of recent studies on the ecology of this species plus new data on the nutrient composition of Opuntia galapageia (a “resource refuge” for this species) and circulating vitamin values of animals sampled on Isla Santiago. It is concluded that, despite some unusually high mineral values for O. galapageia, a diet for N. swarthi under human care should be the same as it is for most other rodents, noting some caution in regard to possible needs for mineral and/or protein adjustment. Zoo Biol. 31:498–505, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Changes in Fecal Estrogen Levels and Sexual Behavior in Captive Sichuan Snub‐Nosed Monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana) Following a Male Replacement
Authors: Kim Yena , Ko Eunha , Lappan Susan , Kezele Alan , Kwon Soo Whan , Choe Jae Chun
Published: May 2012

Rhinopithecus roxellana are generally seasonal breeders, although copulation can occur throughout the year. Previous studies suggest that estradiol modulates female sexual behavior during the mating season. However, the effects of social context on estrogen levels and behavior have not been fully explored. We studied the relationship between sexual behaviors and fecal estrogens in a group of captive R. roxellana during a period of social instability. We collected behavioral data for six months and collected fecal samples at 2–3‐day intervals for four months spanning the mating and nonmating seasons, and analyzed fecal estrogen levels via RIA. Females showed clear cyclic solicitation and copulation peaks in the mating season, which corresponded with sharp peaks in fecal estrogens. During the nonmating season, solicitation rates, copulation rates, and fecal estrogens were generally low. However, one nonpregnant female displayed a sharp peak in solicitations, copulations, and estrogens during the nonmating season 10–14 days after a male replacement. Our results provide preliminary evidence that social and behavioral changes affect estrogen levels in R. roxellana. Zoo Biol. 32:342–346, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of environmental factors on the distribution of plant communities in a semi‐arid region of the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau
Authors: Wang Zeng‐Ru , Yang Guo‐Jing , Yi Shu‐Hua , Chen Sheng‐Yun , Wu Zhen , Guan Jian‐Yue , Zhao Chuan‐Cheng , Zhao Qiu‐Dong , Ye Bai‐Sheng
Published: May 2012

Against the background of global climate warming, the relationship between plant communities in high‐cold ecosystems and environmental gradients has attracted much attention. We investigated the relationship between the distribution of plant communities and environmental factors in a semi‐arid region of the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau. We analyzed the effects of environmental factors on the distribution of plant communities using two‐way indicator species analysis and canonical correspondence analysis. The most important factor explaining the distribution of plant communities was the depth of the active layer of permafrost (denoted as PF), followed by soil water content at 40‐cm soil depth. There was a strong correlation between these two factors. With changes in the PF, the dominant species in plant communities showed an obvious transition. The indices of species richness and species diversity decreased markedly with increasing PF, whereas biomass and vegetation coverage showed weaker responses to changes in the PF. The distribution structure for plant communities in this area mainly results from changes in the PF. Furthermore, the PF has remarkable and important effects on the characteristics of the plant community.
Modeling of Precipitation Phase Boundaries in Mixed Surfactant Systems Using an Improved Counterion Binding Model
Authors: Maneedaeng Atthaphon , Flood Adrian E. , Haller Kenneth J. , Grady Brian P.
Published: May 2012

Anionic surfactants, commonly used in household products and the detergency industry, tend to precipitate with divalent counterions in hard water. The unsightly soap scum thus formed also removes the surfactant from the cleaning action. The current research has improved prediction of the precipitation phase boundary for mixtures of surfactants in hard water in two ways: firstly, an accurate value of the solubility product (KSP) has been determined for the calcium salt of 4‐octylbenzene sulfonate, and accurate temperature dependent KSP values have been determined for the calcium salts of dodecyl sulfate and decyl sulfate; secondly, improvements in prediction of the precipitation phase boundary have been achieved using an improved model. The KSP values of the decyl sulfate and dodecyl sulfate salts strongly increase with increasing temperature, with the shorter chain surfactant having significantly higher KSP than its longer chain analogue. At 30 °C the KSP of the 4‐octylbenzenesulfonate salt is similar to that of the dodecyl sulfate salt, perhaps due to the similarity in the length of their hydrocarbon tails. A recent counterion binding model proposed by our research group and micellization models have been used to model the precipitation phase boundaries for both single anionic surfactant and binary mixed anionic surfactant systems, improving thermodynamic modeling of the precipitation phase boundary of single and binary mixed anionic surfactant systems. In particular, the improved model of counterion binding has allowed the model to predict the phase boundary accurately over a range of temperatures.
Stereology: a novel technique for rapid assessment of liver volume
Authors: Torkzad Michael R. , Norén Agneta , Kullberg Joel
Published: May 2012

Background

The purpose of this study was to test the stereology method using several grid sizes for measuring liver volume and to find which grid provides an accurate estimate of liver volume.

Materials and methods

Liver volume was measured by volumetry in 41 sets of liver MRI. MRI was performed before and after different weight-reducing regimens. Grids of 3, 4, 5, and 6 cm were used to measure liver volume on different occasions by stereology. The liver volume and the changes in volume before and after treatment were compared between stereology and volumetry.

Results

There was no significant difference in measurements between stereology methods and volumetry (p > 0.05). The mean differences in liver volume between stereology based on 3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-cm grids and volumetry were 37, 3, 132, and 23 mL, respectively, and the differences in measurement of liver volume change were 21, 2, 19, and 76 mL, respectively. The mean time required for measurement by stereology was 59–190 s.

Conclusion

Stereology employing 3- and 4-cm grids can rapidly provide accurate results for measuring liver volume and changes in liver volume.

Main Messages

• Statistical methods can be used for measuring area/volume in radiology.

• Measuring liver volume by stereology by 4-cm grids can be done in less than two minutes.

• Follow-up of liver volume is highly accurate with stereological methods.
The development of loneliness from mid‐ to late adolescence: Trajectory classes, personality traits, and psychosocial functioning
Authors: Vanhalst Janne , Goossens Luc , Luyckx Koen , Scholte Ron H.J. , Engels Rutger C.M.E.
Published: May 2012

Although loneliness is a common problem across late adolescence, its developmental course has not been investigated in depth in this period of life. The present study aims to fill this gap by means of a five‐wave cohort‐sequential longitudinal study spanning ages 15 to 20 (N = 389). Both variable‐centered (i.e., latent growth curve modeling) and person‐centered (i.e., latent class growth analysis) approaches were used. Variable‐centered analyses showed that loneliness generally decreased over time. Person‐centered analyses pointed to considerable inter‐individual differences in the development of loneliness, and identified five trajectory classes (i.e., stable low, low increasing, moderate decreasing, high increasing, and chronically high). These five trajectory classes were differentially related to personality traits at age 15 (i.e., extraversion, agreeableness, and emotional stability) and psychosocial functioning at age 20 (i.e., depressive symptoms, self‐esteem, anxiety, and perceived stress). These findings underscore the additional value of studying subgroups regarding the development of loneliness.
Anammox organism KSU‐1 expresses a NirK‐type copper‐containing nitrite reductase instead of a NirS‐type with cytochrome cd1
Authors: Hira Daisuke , Toh Hidehiro , Migita Catharina T. , Okubo Hiroki , Nishiyama Takashi , Hattori Masahira , Furukawa Kenji , Fujii Takao
Published: May 2012

Anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) and denitrification are two distinct microbial reactions relevant to the global nitrogen cycle. The proposed initial step of the anammox reactions, reduction of nitrite to nitric oxide, has been postulated to be identical to that in denitrification catalyzed by the dissimilatory nitrite reductase of the cytochrome cd
1‐type. Here, we characterized the copper‐containing nitrite reductase homolog encoded by nirK detected in the genome of an anammox bacterium strain KSU‐1. We hypothesize that this NirK‐type nitrite reductase, rather than a nitrite reductase of the cytochrome cd
1‐type (NirS), is likely to catalyze nitrite reduction in anammox organism KSU‐1.
Pathway engineering and synthetic biology using acetogens
Authors: Schiel-Bengelsdorf Bettina , Dürre Peter
Published: May 2012

Acetogenic anaerobic bacteria are defined as organisms employing the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway to synthesize acetyl‐CoA from CO2 or CO. Their autotrophic mode of metabolism offers the biotechnological chance to combine use of abundantly available substrates with reduction of greenhouse gases. Several companies have already established pilot and demonstration plants for converting waste gases into ethanol, an important biofuel and a natural product of many acetogens. Recombinant DNA approaches now opened the door to construct acetogens, synthesizing important industrial bulk chemicals and biofuels such as acetone and butanol. Thus, novel microbial production platforms are available that no longer compete with nutritional feedstocks.
The calcium‐binding EF‐hand in polycystin‐L is not a domain for channel activation and ensuing inactivation
Authors: Li Qiang , Liu Yan , Zhao Wei , Chen Xing-Zhen
Published: May 2012

Polycystin‐L (PCL) shares high homology with polycystin‐2, the product of polycystic kidney disease gene‐2. It was previously shown that the PCL forms a non‐selective cation channel activated by calcium influx. However, it remains unclear whether calcium activates/inactivates PCL by binding to the EF‐hand motif located on the cytoplasmic carboxyl‐terminus. Here we obtained two PCL splice variants from liver (PCL‐LV, lacking the EF‐hand) and testis (PCL‐TS, lacking 45 amino acids on the carboxyl tail) using PCR‐based approaches. When expressed in Xenopus oocytes and studied using electrophysiology both splice variants exhibited basal cation channel activity and calcium‐induced channel activation. While PCL‐TS displayed similar activation to PCL, PCL‐LV exhibited a three‐fold increased activation. All five PCL C‐terminal artificial truncation mutants also exhibited basal and calcium‐activated channel activities, in particular the mutant T622X lacking the EF‐hand was associated with increased activation. Our data demonstrate that the EF‐hand and other parts of the carboxyl tail of PCL are not determinants of channel activation/inactivation although the EF‐hand seems to be involved in the modulation of these processes.
Memapsin 2 (β‐secretase) cytosolic domain binds to the VHS domains of GGA1 and GGA2: implications on the endocytosis mechanism of memapsin 2
Authors: He Xiangyuan , Chang Wan-Pin , Koelsch Gerald , Tang Jordan
Published: May 2012

Memapsin 2, or β‐secretase, is a membrane‐anchored aspartic protease that initiates the cleavage of β‐amyloid precursor protein (APP) leading to the production of β‐amyloid peptide in the brain and the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Memapsin 2 and APP are both endocytosed into endosomes for cleavage. Here we show that the cytosolic domain of memapsin 2, but not that of memapsin 1, binds the VHS domains of GGA1 and GGA2. Gel‐immobilized VHS domains of GGA1 and GGA2 also bound to full‐length memapsin 2 from cell mammalian lysates. Mutagenesis studies established that Asp496, Leu499 and Leu500 were essential for the binding. The spacing of these three residues in memapsin 2 is identical to those in the cytosolic domains of mannose‐6‐phosphate receptors, sortilin and low density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 3. These observations suggest that the endocytosis and intracellular transport of memapsin 2, mediated by its cytosolic domain, may involve the binding of GGA1 and GGA2.
Tension pneumocephalus as a complication of intracranial pressure monitoring: A case report
Authors: Vitali Aleksander M , le Roux Andries A
Published: May 2012

Intracranial pressure monitoring has become routine in the management of severe head injuries. We describe an unusual complication secondary to intracranial pressure monitoring with subdural cup catheter. A 35 year-old man was admitted to the Neurosurgery Department following blunt head trauma. He underwent insertion of subdural cup catheter for monitoring of intracranial pressure. A progress computed tomography scan of the brain revealed tension pneumocephalus. As far as the authors are aware, this is the first reported case of tension pneumocephalus resulting from insertion of a subdural intracranial pressure monitor.
Pellet impaction at identical site in both orbits
Authors: Singh DK , Sinha VD , Bagaria H , Dharkar SR
Published: May 2012

Intra orbital foreign bodies are relatively uncommon and constitute 2.9% of ocular injuries. Pellet injury of orbit is also uncommon and constitutes 2.4% of orbital injuries We present an unusual case of bilateral orbital pellet injury where both the pellets were seen at identical positions in both orbits.
Donepezil in traumatic brain injury: Report of two cases
Authors: Agarwal Arun Lata , Biswas Devdutta , Agarwal Sanjay
Published: May 2012

Adults with traumatic brain injury (TBI) are often severely impaired and inadequately rehabilitated due to deficits in memory and behavioral problems like apathy, irritability and depression, and it has been suggested that an acetylcholine deficit could be contributory to these deficits. Central Acetyl cholinesterase Inhibitors (CAI) are being reported to have a beneficial impact in treatment of memory deficits in adults with TBI, with Donepezil studied most extensively. The authors present two patients with TBI with long term static dysfunction of memory and behavior who responded to Donepezil in terms of attention, memory and apathy. Donepezil appears to be a valuable pharmacological option for treatment of memory and behavioral deficits in TBI.
Traumatic ipsilateral acute extradural and subdural hematoma
Authors: Gupta Rahul , Mohindra Sandeep , Verma Saurabh Kumar
Published: May 2012

We report a unique case of brain trauma, harboring acute extradural haematoma and subdural haematoma on the same side.
Unilateral occipital condylar fracture presenting as neck pain and restriction of neck movements- Report of a case and review of literature
Authors: Tewari Manoj K , Ratnam KL , Shiv Vinod K
Published: May 2012

Occipital condylar fractures (OCFs) once rare injuries are not so at present. A young male, victim of motor vehicle accident, presented with severe high cervical pain and restriction of neck movements without any focal neurological deficit, with normal cervical spine x-rays and computerized tomography (CT) scans brain. CT scan and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the craniovertebral junction (CVJ) area revealed a retro-pulsed segment in the cervical spinal canal with no cord compression or ligament injury. Patient improved with immobilization of neck. Patients with severe high cervical pain and restricted head movements OCF should be suspected and patient should be evaluated further. Majority of stable OCF improve with immobilization only.
Peasant Protest in the Late Ottoman Empire: Moral Economy, Revolt, and theTanzimatReforms
Authors: Aytekın E. Attıla
Published: May 2012

This article argues that despite the different contexts of the Ottoman peasant uprisings in Vidin, Canik, and Kisrawan during the mid-nineteenth century, the attitudes and actions of peasants in the three revolts were remarkably similar. The moral economy of the peasants played an important role in determining their attitudes to the upper classes and to the state. During agrarian conflicts, the peasants received no support from outside but were well organized, used violence selectively, refused to pay taxes they deemed unfair, tended to radicalize, and preferred to deal with central instead of local authorities. Their preference for dealing with central authorities stemmed not from any naive monarchism, but from their realistic assessment of the local balance of power and a pragmatic desire to bypass it; and from their wish to have recourse to the moral authority of the sultan. The article will conclude that the rebels did not rise up against theTanzimatreforms, nor did they simply misunderstand them; rather, they endorsed the reform programme, reinterpreted it through rumour, and strove to radicalize it.
The mechanism of inverted relativization in Japanese: A silent linker and inversion
Authors: HIRAIWA KEN
Published: May 2012

Japanese has two peculiar types of relative clause (RC),No-RCs andDe-RCs. In these types of relative clause, what looks like a (pivot) head noun appears at the left edge of the clause and is accompanied bynoandde, respectively. This sharply contrasts with regular prenominal relative clauses in Japanese, which conform to the head-final word order pattern. The aim of this article is to investigate the syntax and semantics of these two types of relative clause in detail and reveal differences between them. Specifically, I will propose that (i)noinNo-RCs is an appositive genitive particle licensed by a silentlinkerhead, and (ii)deinDe-RCs is a continuative/participial form of the copulada. Drawing a parallel with NP-noNP constructions and building on an idea from S.-Y. Kuroda's dissertation, it will be argued thatNo-RCs are derived by DP-internal inversion mediated by the linker. On the other hand,De-RCs will be shown to be relatives conjoined with the copulade. It will be further suggested that the fact that Korean and Mandarin Chinese lack equivalents ofDe-RCs is due to the absence of the appositive genitive particle and hence of DP-internal inversion.
Recent advances in nutrition, genes and brain health
Authors: Dauncey M. J.
Published: May 2012

Molecular mechanisms underlying brain structure and function are affected by nutrition throughout the life cycle, with profound implications for health and disease. Responses to nutrition are in turn influenced by individual differences in multiple target genes. Recent advances in genomics and epigenomics are increasing understanding of mechanisms by which nutrition and genes interact. This review starts with a short account of current knowledge on nutrition–gene interactions, focusing on the significance of epigenetics to nutritional regulation of gene expression, and the roles of SNP and copy number variants (CNV) in determining individual responses to nutrition. A critical assessment is then provided of recent advances in nutrition–gene interactions, and especially energy status, in three related areas: (i) mental health and well-being, (ii) mental disorders and schizophrenia, (iii) neurological (neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative) disorders and Alzheimer's disease. Optimal energy status, including physical activity, has a positive role in mental health. By contrast, sub-optimal energy status, including undernutrition and overnutrition, is implicated in many disorders of mental health and neurology. These actions are mediated by changes in energy metabolism and multiple signalling molecules, e.g. brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). They often involve epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation and histone modifications. Recent advances show that many brain disorders result from a sophisticated network of interactions between numerous environmental and genetic factors. Personal, social and economic costs of sub-optimal brain health are immense. Future advances in understanding the complex interactions between nutrition, genes and the brain should help to reduce these costs and enhance quality of life.
Using camera trap photos and direct sightings to identify possible refugia for the Vulnerable Sumatran striped rabbit Nesolagus netscheri
Authors: McCarthy Jennifer L. , Fuller Todd K. , McCarthy Kyle P. , Wibisono Hariyo T. , Livolsi Mark C.
Published: May 2012

The endemic Sumatran striped rabbit Nesolagus netscheri, categorized as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, is one of the rarest lagomorphs and little is known about its ecology, status or distribution. After nearly a decade with no published sightings, new camera-trap photos have been taken and observations made in Bukit Barisan Seletan and Kerinci Seblat National Parks, renewing interest in this rare species. We suggest that Bukit Barisan Seletan National Park is an ideal location to initiate a much needed ecological study of the species. Documentation and protection of a population in this Park would facilitate refinement of study techniques applicable to other areas in Sumatra, including Kerinci Seblat National Park, and thus facilitate an assessment of the status and distribution of the species. We believe that in light of ongoing encroachment and deforestation in many of Sumatra's protected areas it is important to implement immediate conservation initiatives in both parks to ensure the persistence of these known populations.
Interbirth spacing and offspring mental health outcomes
Authors: Riordan D. V. , Morris C. , Hattie J. , Stark C.
Published: May 2012

Background

The perinatal or early life environment may influence the development of mental illness in adulthood. It is not clear how, or when, any such influences might be mediated. Foetal exposure to maternal stress in the intrauterine environment has been suggested as a possible mediator of foetal origins of mental illness but the postnatal environment may also be of importance. This study aimed to test the foetal origins hypothesis by using retrograde and antegrade interbirth intervals (time to mother's most recent and next deliveries respectively) as proxy measures of antenatal and postnatal maternal stress.

Method

Linked datasets of the Scottish Morbidity Record (SMR) were used to identify a birth cohort. Where applicable, the dates of each mother's most recent previous and/or next subsequent delivery were noted, allowing birth intervals to be calculated. The cohort was followed up into young adulthood, using self-harm, substance misuse, psychotic disorder and affective disorder as outcome measures. Data were analysed using Cox regression.

Results

No significant relationship was observed between affective disorders and interbirth interval, neither retrograde nor antegrade. Short (<18-month) antegrade birth intervals were independently associated with increased risk of psychotic disorder and self-harm. Long (>72-month) retrograde intervals were associated with increased risk of self-harm and substance misuse.

Conclusions

The data do not provide evidence for the foetal origins of mental disorders but, in the cases of psychotic disorders, and of self-harm, suggest that the early postnatal rather than the antenatal environment may be of greater importance.
Exploiting the light–metal interaction for biomolecular sensing and imaging
Authors: Höppener Christiane , Novotny Lukas
Published: May 2012

The ability of metal surfaces and nanostructures to localize and enhance optical fields is the primary reason for their application in biosensing and imaging. Local field enhancement boosts the signal-to-noise ratio in measurements and provides the possibility of imaging with resolutions significantly better than the diffraction limit. In fluorescence imaging, local field enhancement leads to improved brightness of molecular emission and to higher detection sensitivity and better discrimination. We review the principles of plasmonic fluorescence enhancement and discuss applications ranging from biosensing to bioimaging.
Victimhood, Hope and the Refugee Narrative: Affective Dialectics in Magnet Theatre'sEvery Year, Every Day, I Am Walking
Authors: COX EMMA
Published: May 2012

Contemporary theatricalized refugee narratives are often understood to communicate the profound trauma associated with forced displacement, even as this trauma is made ‘meaningful’ or ‘recognizable’ to audiences by the identification, however nebulous, of hope. This article examines some of the ways in which an affective dialectic of victimhood and hope functions inEvery Year, Every Day, I Am Walking(2006–), a small-scale international touring work directed by Mark Fleishman and produced by Cape Town-based Magnet Theatre. Paying attention to questions of narrative and performative form, I investigate how, and for whom, victimhood and hope function in and through the work, constructing its emotional and political tensions. I trace some of the conditions of its circulation, with particular emphasis on its transnational work with respect to a metropolitan audience at London's Oval House Theatre in 2010. In this, my purpose is to probe the question of who is served (as well as who is implicated and mobilized) by refugee narratives that may occupy all too easily a generalized geopolitical imaginary: ‘far from here’.
Against Fairness? International Environmental Law, Disciplinary Bias, and Pareto Justice
Authors: PROST MARIO , CAMPRUBÍ ALEJANDRA TORRES
Published: May 2012

International environmental law (IEL) as a discipline has failed to respond to problems of fairness in a meaningful and systematic fashion. Whilst IEL has long acknowledged the existence of competing claims regarding the fair distribution of costs, resources, and responsibilities, fairness remains at the periphery of the disciplinary discourse. The present essay considers some possible explanations for this neglect. The first part of the essay examines a set of implicit assumptions and beliefs in which IEL is embedded, which somewhat prevent genuine and critical engagement with fairness issues. The second part of the essay considers normative and policy arguments recently developed in the law and economics literature that explicitly argueagainstthe notion that fairness should play a role in the design and implementation of environmental regimes. The essay concludes by calling for a more robust engagement with fairness issues and by considering some of the implications this project may have for IEL.
Transnational Conservation Contracts
Authors: AFFOLDER NATASHA
Published: May 2012

Transnational environmental law is the subject of growing scholarly interest. Yet, much work remains to be done to fill in both the conceptual and empirical contours of this field. One methodological challenge that transnational law poses is the need to look beyond traditional sources of international and national law. This article contributes to efforts to understand transnational law's multilayered architecture by drawing attention to the use of transnational contracts as a mechanism to protect habitats and species. The diverse and proliferating examples of conservation contracts discussed in this article – which include forest carbon agreements, conservation concessions, debt-for-nature swaps, conservation performance payments, and private protected area agreements – reveal an ongoing and intensifying transnational attempt to use private contracts to address some of the most pressing issues of common concern. This article draws on fairness theory in both contract and international environmental law to argue for law's relevance in interpreting conservation's call for contracts.
Jurisdiction and Applicable Law
Authors: CRAWFORD JAMES R.
Published: May 2012

This article provides a reappraisal of the International Court of Justice's approach to jurisdiction and applicable law inNicaragua, 25 years later. In the first phase of the proceedings arising from the US support of the activities of the Contras against the Sandinista government, the Court robustly asserted its jurisdiction despite the US reliance on its multilateral treaty reservation and the subsequent attempted modification of its Optional Clause declaration. At the same time, the Court approached the related question of applicable law with a wide, if not effusive, reliance on multilateral customary international law operating conjunctively with treaty law. The Court's dismissal of negotiations as a procedural precondition for invoking its jurisdiction inNicaraguais contrasted with its recent findings inGeorgiav.Russia.
‘Pots, privies and WCs; crapping at the opera in London before 1830’
Authors: Burden Michael
Published: May 2012

What was the interplay between plumbing and the routines of audience behaviour at London's eighteenth-century opera house? A simple question, perhaps, but it proves to be a subject with scarce evidence, and even scarcer commentary. This article sets out to document as far as possible the developments in plumbing in the London theatres, moving from the chamber pot to the privy to the installation of the first water-closets, addressing questions of the audience's general behaviour, the beginnings in London of a ‘listening’ audience, and the performance of music between the acts. It concludes that the bills were performed without intervals, and that in an evening that frequently ran to four hours in length, audience members moved around the auditorium, and came and went much as they pleased (to the pot, privy or WC), demonstrating that singers would have had to contend throughout their performances with a large quantity of low-level noise.
Aristophanes, Rameau andPlatée
Authors: Green Robert A.
Published: May 2012

Rameau'sPlatéeowes much more to Aristophanes' comedyThe Frogsthan the frog chorus. The main character inThe Frogs, Dionysus, may well have been the inspiration for many of the traits of the nymph Platée. Both rule over wetlands and their inhabitants, and both are subjected to extensive mockery. While Dionysus is a divine patron of the theatre, Platée is a visual metaphor for opera. Dionysus, disguised as Heracles, fails to measure up to the hero, exhibiting cowardly behaviour and physical weakness, just as Platée fails to speak and act as a satisfactory operatic heroine, the model for which is, arguably, Lully's Armide. The parodic elements in the debate between Aeschylus and Euripides over the nature and function of tragedy resonate with the parody oftragédie lyriquewhich lies at the heart of Rameau's opera.
Effect on sperm quality of different cryoprotectants in sperm ofChinchilla lanigera
Authors: Gramajo-Bühler M.C. , Pucci-Alcaide F. , Sánchez-Toranzo G.
Published: May 2012

Chinchilla lanigerais an endangered species therefore the development of cryopreservation protocols for its gametes is a useful tool in the application of assisted reproduction techniques. A study of the functionality of the spermatozoa punctured from the cauda epididymis was performed on fresh or frozen–thawed samples with three cryoprotective media (test-yolk buffer, sucrose and glycerol). The effect that these media had on sperm physiology during the freezing, storage and later thawing process was analysed. A decrease in the percentages of viability, motility, membrane integrity and capacity to undergo the induced acrosome reaction was found with all the media assayed, an increase in the percentages of DNA fragmentation was also observed. The comparative analysis of the effect of the different cryoprotectants assayed showed that the best medium to use to cryopreserve epididymal sperm in this species is test-yolk buffer. This medium had the least effect on the abovementioned physiological parameters, especially at the level of genetic material.
Oocyte adhesiveness and embryonic development ofAstyanax bimaculatus(Linnaeus, 1758) (Pisces: Characidae)
Authors: Weber André Alberto , Arantes Fábio Pereira , Sato Yoshimi , Rizzo Elizete , Bazzoli Nilo
Published: May 2012

This study shows for the first time the presence of a jelly coat on oocytes of neotropical Characiformes fish. This structure could be responsible for the adhesiveness ofAstyanax bimaculatusoocytes, a species widely distributed in South America including in the São Francisco River basin in Brazil. Adult specimens ofA. bimaculatuswere submitted to artificial reproduction in order to analyse the egg morphology and embryonic development. The eggs were fertilised and kept in incubators with a water temperature of 24°C so that embryogenesis could be monitored. Ovulated and unfertilised oocytes were also collected and submitted to routine histological techniques.Astyanax bimaculatusoocytes were found to be spherical, yellowish, and covered by a thin jelly coat with a slightly adhesive surface. The mean oocyte diameter was 1.03 ± 0.03 mm, the perivitelline space was 0.21 ± 0.02 mm and the jelly coat's thickness was 0.04 ± 0.01 mm. Positive periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) stain and Alcian blue stain pH 2.5 indicated the presence of neutral glycoproteins, and carboxylated acid glycoconjugates on the jelly coat that formed mucosubstances that may be associated with egg adhesiveness. At a water temperature of 24°C, blastopore closure and hatching occurred at 5 h and 17 h after fertilisation, respectively. The results of this study provide essential information for phylogenetic studies and for a better understanding of the reproductive strategy ofA. bimaculatus, currently included in theincertae sedisgroup of the Characidae family due to the lack of monophyly among the families of the group.
Prenatal diagnosis of long QT syndrome: implications for delivery room and neonatal management
Authors: Greene E. Anne , Berul Charles I. , Donofrio Mary T.
Published: May 2012

This case describes the prenatal diagnosis and integrated peripartum management of a foetus with 2:1 atrioventricular block and torsade de pointes due to congenital long QT syndrome. The unique issues related to the detection of intrauterine conduction abnormalities and ventricular arrhythmias, along with the immediate postnatal care, have been described as an interesting teaching case with successful outcome.