bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learning to discriminate frequency modulation rate can benefit and worsen pitch acuity
Authors: Wisniewski Matthew G. , Liu Estella H. , Church Barbara A. , Mercado Eduardo
Published: January 2014

Participants were trained to discriminate frequency modulation rates (FM-rate training) or Gabor patch orientations (visual training) in a same–different task for two different training lengths. Test discriminations involved trains of FM sweeps with identical modulation rates, but different frequencies. FM-rate training enhanced test accuracy (relative to visual) when sweep trains contained frequencies similar to training. For extended FM-rate training, the opposite was true for trains shifted one octave higher. In contrast to previous work, generalization of learning to the untrained dimension (pitch) was not well accounted for by conceptual learning. Mechanisms of stimulus learning may better explain the current cross-dimensional generalization.
O ROM(e)O1, ROM(e)O1, Wherefore Art Thou ROM(e)O1?
Authors: Semenzato Martina , Scorrano Luca
Published: January 2014

ROMO1 translates alterations in redox state into changes in mitochondrial morphology.
An Immune Response to Malnutrition
Authors: Pickersgill Helen
Published: January 2014

Vitamin A deficiency alters the balance of innate immune cells in the gut, promoting resistance to nematode infection.
Blood Vessels Direct Liver Regeneration
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: January 2014

A vascular growth factor exerts paracrine control of hepatocyte proliferation and autocrine control of angiogenesis during liver regeneration.
Bacterial Lipids Help Gut It Out
Authors: Berndt Jason D.
Published: January 2014

Microbes in the gut produce lipids that signal to the host to establish symbiosis.
Acute genital ulcers
Authors: Delgado-García Silvia , Palacios-Marqués Ana , Martínez-Escoriza Juan Carlos , Martín-Bayón Tina-Aurora
Published: January 2014

Acute genital ulcers, also known as acute vulvar ulcers, ulcus vulvae acutum or Lipschütz ulcers, refer to an ulceration of the vulva or lower vagina of non-venereal origin that usually presents in young women, predominantly virgins. Although its incidence is unknown, it seems a rare entity, with few cases reported in the literature. Their aetiology and pathogenesis are still unknown. The disease is characterised by an acute onset of flu-like symptoms with single or multiple painful ulcers on the vulva. Diagnosis is mainly clinical, after exclusion of other causes of vulvar ulcers. The treatment is mainly symptomatic, with spontaneous resolution in 2 weeks and without recurrences in most cases. We present a case report of a 13-year-old girl with two episodes of acute ulcers that fit the clinical criteria for Lipschütz ulcers.
Gender differences in health-related quality of life associated with abdominal obesity in a Korean population
Authors: Choo Jina , Jeon Seonhui , Lee Juneyoung
Published: January 2014

Objectives

Overall obesity, as measured by body mass index (BMI), has been associated with a low level of health-related quality of life (HRQOL), but little is known about abdominal obesity. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine whether abdominal obesity, as measured by waist circumference (WC), would be significantly associated with HRQOL independent of overall obesity, and if so, whether the association would differ by gender among the Korean population.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

South Korea.

Participants

Using data from the 2007–2009 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a total of 13 754 men and women aged 19–65 years were selected, and information about height (cm), weight (kg), WC (cm) and the EuroQOL-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) scores for HRQOL were taken.

Results

Not only an overall obesity (as categorised into obese, overweight or non-overweight groups based on BMI) but also an abdominal obesity (defined by WC ≥90 cm for men and ≥85 cm for women) was significantly associated with lower EQ-5D scores, after adjusting for age, gender, socioeconomic variables and a number of comorbidities. Even after adjusting BMI effect, the association between abdominal obesity and lower EQ-5D scores remained significant for women, but not for men.

Conclusions

Among the Korean population aged 19–65 years, abdominal obesity was associated with impaired HRQOL, independently of overall obesity. Furthermore, this association differed by gender, being significant only for women. Therefore, primary healthcare professionals should pay attention to gender differences in the impact of obesity on HRQOL when evaluating population-based health programmes.
Antiretroviral therapy is not associated with reduced herpes simplex virus shedding in HIV coinfected adults: an observational cohort study
Authors: Tan Darrell H S , Raboud Janet M , Kaul Rupert , Walmsley Sharon L
Published: January 2014

Objectives

Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1/2) may have adverse consequences on HIV type 1 infection. We quantified the frequency of HSV reactivations in highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)-treated adults with HIV, and compared it with that in HAART-naïve patients.

Setting

2 academic hospital sites in Toronto, Canada.

Participants

Asymptomatic HAART-naive (n=44) or treated (with HIV RNA <50 copies/mL, n=41) adults with HSV-1 and/or 2, HIV coinfection.

Outcome measures

HSV-1 and HSV-2 shedding as measured by PCR on oral, genital and anal swabs self-collected daily for 28 days.

Results

Of the 85 participants, 88%, 67% and 53% were coinfected with HSV-1, HSV-2 and both HSV types, respectively. Median (IQR) CD4 count was 516 (382, 655) cells/mm3. HSV (type 1 and/or 2) shedding occurred on a median (IQR) of 7.1% (0, 17.9%) of days in HAART users and 3.6% (0, 10.7%) of days in non-HAART users. No significant relationship was observed between HAART and HSV-1/2 shedding in univariable (OR=1.55, 95% CI 0.83 to 2.87) or multivariable negative binomial models adjusted for sex, baseline CD4 count, recent immigrant status and time since HIV diagnosis (adjusted OR, aOR=1.05, 95% CI 0.43 to 2.58). Similar null results were observed for HSV-2 shedding in HSV-2 seropositive participants (aOR=1.16, 95% CI 0.40 to 3.36) and HSV-1 shedding in HSV-1 seropositive participants (aOR=0.70, 95% CI 0.14 to 3.47).

Conclusions

HSV reactivations persist despite suppressive HAART among adults coinfected with HSV and HIV. Clinical trials of suppressive anti-HSV therapy are warranted in this population.
Observed ground and pile group responses due to tunneling in Bangkok stiff clay
Authors: Boonyarak Thayanan , Phisitkul Kullapat , Ng Charles W.W. , Teparaksa Wanchai , Aye Zaw Zaw
Published: January 2014

A 5.15 m diameter water diversion tunnel was driven into Bangkok stiff clay using an earth pressure balance shield. The tunnel was driven within a clear distance of 2 m from the closest pile of a 3 × 4 pile group supporting an expressway. During construction, tunnel driving parameters as well as induced ground and pile group responses were recorded. To avoid cutting the piles supporting the expressway, the alignment of the tunnel was adjusted and curved. As a result of this change in tunnel alignment, the tunnel advancing rate was reduced from an average 17 m/day for a straight drive to an average of only 6 m/day for the curved alignment, and the ratio between the tunnel face pressure and overburden pressure was changed from 0.5 to 0.4, accordingly. Due to the reduction of the tunnel face pressure, up to a 280% larger inward ground movement towards the tunnel was observed. As the shield penetration rate decreased, the torque required for tunnel driving was reduced by 33%, while the ratio between shield penetration rate and soil extraction was almost constant throughout the tunnel route. A transverse influence zone due to tunnel driving was identified to extend up to a distance that was twice the tunnel diameter radially from the longitudinal tunnel axis. The maximum tilting of the expressway pier and deduced differential settlement of the pile located within the influence zone were up to 1:2600 and 2.0 mm, respectively. Tilting of all the piers was mainly caused by long-term subsurface settlement having the tilting direction towards the tunnel. This long-term subsurface settlement was up to about 80% of the total.
The long-wavelength lattice vibrations of nanocrystal SnS
Authors: Hashimzade F.M. , Huseinova D.A. , Nizametdinova M.A. , Ulubey A.M.
Published: January 2014

The frequencies of the long-wavelength lattice vibrations of SnS crystal with a layered crystal structure have been calculated in the linear chain framework. It has been shown that these frequencies fall as the size of the crystal across layers decreases. A significant softening of the low-frequency Raman-active modes has been established as the thickness of a crystal is reduced to two layers.
A comparison of locomotor performance of the semiarboreal Pacific marten (Martescaurina) and semiaquatic mustelids
Authors: Flaherty E.A. , Ben-David M. , Pauli J.N.
Published: January 2014

The relatively long body and short limbs of mustelids allow them to exploit resources from a diversity of habitat types. This body plan also has important implications for energetics because of increased heat loss from a high surface to volume ratio and muscular support of an elongated spine. Past research suggests that dorsal flexion of the spine enables semiaquatic mustelids to be relatively economical runners at faster speeds. We evaluated locomotor performance in a semiarboreal mustelid, the Pacific marten (Martes caurina (Merriam, 1890)), and compared our results from three females and one male to those previously observed in semiaquatic mustelids. At slower speeds, when martens used a walking or trotting gait, they were less economical than predicted; at higher speeds, martens were as economical as predicted. Nonetheless, martens did not switch to a bounding gait earlier than expected based on an allometric relationship between body mass, running speed, and gait. At the highest speed, martens increased stride length and decreased stride frequency. These observations suggest that unlike the semiaquatic river otters (Lontra canadensis (Schreber, 1777)) and mink (Neovison vison (Schreber, 1777)), martens do not use spinal flexion but instead employ other adaptations that result in energy savings at high speeds.
Smilax riparia Reduces Hyperuricemia in Mice as a Potential Treatment of Gout
Authors: Wu Xiao-Hui , Yu Chun-Hao , Zhang Chun-Feng , Anderson Samantha , Zhang Yan-Wen
Published: January 2014

The roots and rhizomes of Smilax riparia, called "Niu-Wei-Cai" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), are believed to be effective in treating gout symptoms. However, it is not clear if the uricosuric mechanisms of S. riparia support its therapeutic activities. In this study, we examined the efficacy of S. riparia in reducing serum uric acid levels in a potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemia mouse model. We observed that the total saponins of S. riparia could down-regulate renal mURAT1, resulting in the enhancement of urate excretion in the kidney of hyperuricemic mice. These results suggest that S. riparia could be an active anti-gout herbal medicine, which would contribute to the enhancement of uric acid excretion in the kidney.
Baicalein Protects Cardiomyocytes Against Mitochondrial Oxidant Injury Associated with JNK Inhibition and Mitochondrial Akt Activation
Authors: Huang Hsien-Hao , Shao Zuo-Hui , Li Chang-Qing , Vanden Hoek Terry L. , Li Jing
Published: January 2014

Baicalein, a flavonoid derived from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, possesses cardioprotection against oxidant injury by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). Few studies investigate whether baicalein protection is mediated by attenuating mitochondrial ROS and modulating the prosurvival and proapoptotic signaling. Primary cultured chick cardiomyocytes were used to study the role of baicalein in mitochondrial superoxide [Formula: see text] generation and signaling of Akt and JNK. Cells were exposed to H 2 O 2 for 2 h and baicalein was given 2 h prior to and during 2 h of H 2 O 2 exposure. Cell viability was assessed by propidium iodide and DNA fragmentation. H 2 O 2 (500 μM) significantly induced 45.3 ± 6.2% of cell death compared to the control (p < 0.001) and resulted in DNA laddering. Baicalein (10, 25 or 50 μM) dose-dependently reduced the cell death to 38.7 ± 5.6% (p = 0.226); 31.2 ± 3.9% (p < 0.01); 30.3 ± 5.3% (p < 0.01), respectively. It also attenuated DNA laddering. Further, baicalein decreased intracellular ROS and mitochondrial [Formula: see text] generation that was confirmed by superoxide dismutase PEG-SOD and mitochondria electron transport chain complex III inhibitor stigmatellin. In addition, baicalein increased Akt phosphorylation and decreased JNK phosphorylation in H 2 O 2-exposed cells. Moreover, baicalein augmented mitochondrial phosphorylation of Akt Thr308 and GSK3β Ser9, and prevented mitochondrial cytochrome c release assessed by cellular fractionation. Our results suggest that baicalein cardioprotection may involve an attenuation of mitochondrial [Formula: see text] and an increase in mitochondrial phosphorylation of Akt and GSK3β while decreasing JNK activation.
OPTICAL PROPERTIES AND STRUCTURE OF COBALT CHLORIDE DOPED PVA AND ITS BLEND WITH PVP
Authors: AHMED R. M.
Published: January 2014

Solution cast technique has been used to prepare films of PVA and its blend with PVP. Moreover, cobalt chloride ( CoCl 2) has been doped in PVA and also PVA/PVP 90/10 as a host matrix for it. Also, UV/VIS optical analysis has been used to drop more light on the structural modification that occurs due to doping CoCl 2 with different levels in different polymeric matrixes. Indeed, UV–Vis spectra is a useful tool for studying the absorption spectra and estimating the values of absorption edge, Eg, and band tail, Eu, for all samples. The optical absorption measurements have been carried out in the wavelength region from 200 nm to 900 nm. In addition, the ligand field parameters and optical energy gaps have been calculated and discussed. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy have been used to characterize the studied samples which illustrates that PVA is strongly affected by mixed fillers.
Japan's Relations with Mekong Basin Countries: Diplomacy, Markets and Community
Authors: LAM Peng Er
Published: January 2014

The image of Japan today is that of an economic giant mired in stagnation and deflation but it is still an active player seeking a comprehensive role in diplomacy, economics and ASEAN community-building in the Mekong Basin.
Why China Needs to Urgently Address its Rising Income Inequality
Authors: WONG John
Published: January 2014

Recently, China published its Gini coefficients for the past 10 years, which all exceeded the warning level of 0.4. China's inequality level is among the highest 10% of countries in the world. In fact, the sources of China's income inequality stemmed from the sources of China's economic growth. Long-term remedy requires fundamental structural changes like removing institutional biases against equality and providing a more equal access to educational and income-earning opportunities.
Phase fragility and mechatronic reliability for Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 ferroelectric single crystals — A review
Authors: Fang F. , Yang W.
Published: January 2014

Single crystals of (1-x) Pb ( Mg 1/3 Nb 2/3) O 3–x PbTiO 3( PMN –x PT ) near their morphotropic phase boundaries (MPBs) are under extensive investigations for their extraordinary high dielectric and piezoelectric behavior. Applications of those single crystals facilitated the breakthrough in ultrasonic transducer materials and devices. Ferroelectric materials are known to be fragile which often leads to various reliability failures in applications involving electric loadings. In a mechanical sense, the failure modes concern the fracture under an intensive electric field, and the fatigue crack propagation under an alternating electric field. In an electrical sense, the failure is exhibited by degenerated hysteresis loop by shrinking the remnant polarization and expanding the coercive field. All these modes degrade the performance for ferroelectric devices. As a departure from the tetragonal (T) ferroelectric materials, exemplified by BaTiO 3 and Pb ( ZrTi ) O 3, the domain structures of PMN–PT around the MPB are versatile and intricate, depending sensitively on the composition variation, orientation and previous loading history. In this review, the attention is mainly focused on three aspects. First, the phase fragility and multiphase coexistence are presented for both [100]- and [101]-oriented PMN–PT single crystals. Second, investigations on electric field-induced fatigue crack propagation are described, along with the orientation effect on the crack propagation behavior. Third, the inverse effects of the phase transition and fatigue crack growth on the polarization behavior, or the interaction between the mechanical and electrical degradations will be elucidated. The review aims for better understanding the underlying mechanism for the ultrahigh performance of the PMN–PT single crystals, to bridge the studies of ferroelectric materials from the mechanical and electrical senses, as well as to evaluate the reliability of PMN–PT single crystals under device applications.
Numerical simulation of fluid-flow processes in a 3D high-resolution carbonate reservoir analogue
Authors: Agada S. , Chen F. , Geiger S. , Toigulova G. , Agar S. , Shekhar R. , Benson G. , Hehmeyer O. , Amour F. , Mutti M. , Christ N. , Immenhauser A.
Published: January 2014

A high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) outcrop model of a Jurassic carbonate ramp was used in order to perform a series of detailed and systematic flow simulations. The aim of this study was to test the impact of small- and large-scale geological features on reservoir performance and oil recovery. The digital outcrop model contains a wide range of sedimentological, diagenetic and structural features, including discontinuity surfaces, shoal bodies, mud mounds, oyster bioherms and fractures. Flow simulations are performed for numerical well testing and secondary oil recovery. Numerical well testing enables synthetic but systematic pressure responses to be generated for different geological features observed in the outcrops. This allows us to assess and rank the relative impact of specific geological features on reservoir performance. The outcome documents that, owing to the realistic representation of matrix heterogeneity, most diagenetic and structural features cannot be linked to a unique pressure signature. Instead, reservoir performance is controlled by subseismic faults and oyster bioherms acting as thief zones. Numerical simulations of secondary recovery processes reveal strong channelling of fluid flow into high-permeability layers as the primary control for oil recovery. However, appropriate reservoir-engineering solutions, such as optimizing well placement and injection fluid, can reduce channelling and increase oil recovery.
In situ
estimation of relative permeability from resistivity measurements
Authors: Li Kewen , Shapiro Matt , Horne Roland N. , Ma Shouxiang , Hajari Abdrabrasool , Mudhhi Mohammed
Published: January 2014

Relative permeability is one of the key parameters governing fluid flow through porous media. Determination of relative permeability is traditionally conducted in the laboratory using either recombined reservoir oil or laboratory oil at simulated reservoir conditions, or simply at laboratory conditions. This is because it is expensive to sample representative uncontaminated reservoir fluids and extremely difficult to cut reservoir cores without altering their surface properties. Restoring rock properties to their original reservoir conditions has been a technical challenge to the industry. Upscaling laboratory special core-analysis data to reservoir scale is also a concern. Consequently, the industry has been researching new methods to extract relative permeability
in situ
, including the utilization of specially designed permanent downhole electric resistivity array, pressure and flow rate measurements. In this study, a different approach was taken. A semi-analytical model, developed to infer relative permeability from resistivity, was verified using experimental and field data. Relative permeability and resistivity were measured simultaneously in the laboratory. The results demonstrated that relative permeability derived from measured resistivity was close to the measured relative permeability. Relative permeability calculated from resistivity logs in two wells was compared to measured relative permeability with encouraging results.
Fracture-network analysis of the Latemar Platform (northern Italy): integrating outcrop studies to constrain the hydraulic properties of fractures in reservoir models
Authors: Boro Herman , Rosero Enrique , Bertotti Giovanni
Published: January 2014

Fractures in subsurface reservoirs are known to have significant impacts on reservoir productivity. Quantifying their importance, however, is challenged by limited subsurface observations, and intense computations for modelling and upscaling. In this paper, we present a workflow to construct and upscale fracture models based on outcrop studies in the Latemar carbonate platform (northern Italy). Fractures were first analysed to investigate their distinct characteristics throughout different sedimentological domains; that is, slope, margin and platform interior. Several fracture models were then built to represent different domains and were used to upscale fracture-network properties. Small-scale models were preferred to the reservoir-scale ones to enable multiple realizations and various sensitivity analyses in a time-efficient manner.

The fracture characteristics of the Latemar Platform vary across different sedimentological domains. This variation results in a non-homogeneous permeability field that will influence flow behaviours. Fractures in the slope domain are typically tall but low in intensity, resulting in relatively low effective permeabilities. In the platform interior, smaller sizes of fractures combined with higher intensities give rise to higher effective permeabilities. In general, fracture intensities, aperture and their intrinsic permeability would have a significant impact on the permeability field. Fracture shape and orientations are more important in affecting the connectivity.
Workflows for incorporating stratigraphic and diagenetic relationships into a reservoir-analogue model from outcrops of Miocene carbonates in SE Spain
Authors: Benson Gregory S. , Franseen Evan K. , Goldstein Robert H. , Li Zhaoqi
Published: January 2014

A workflow is presented for constructing an outcrop-based static geological model for Miocene heterozoan, photozoan, oolitic and microbial carbonates in SE Spain. Fieldwork and LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) data were integrated to create a photorealistic virtual outcrop. Field-based data are depicted on the virtual outcrop, and used to identify and correlate horizons. Multivariate regression is used to extend stratigraphic horizons away from the outcrop and to create realistic time-equivalent model layers. Mapping and measured stratigraphic sections are used to assign depofacies within model layers. Pinning points are used to reconstruct sea-level history, and palaeotopography is used to define palaeobathymetry. Geospatial analysis of depofacies occurrence is used to extrapolate facies while also enforcing palaeobathymetric controls on depofacies distribution. Dolomitization and meteoric calcite cementation are dominant diagenetic products affecting porosity and permeability. Their distribution was mapped in the field and amounts were quantified in the laboratory, and these were used to populate diagenetic products into geomodel cells. Six scenario models were built to represent different stages and combinations of diagenetic effects on porosity and permeability. Construction of the static geological models required the development of new methods. These include: (1) a new workflow to extend clinoform surfaces across the model area by fitting equations to horizon picks made on the outcrop; (2) a new workflow relating relative sea level to model layers to allow calculation of palaeo-water depth and relate that to facies probability; and; (3) an experimental application to predict porosity and permeability from objective visual descriptions of carbonate samples.
Data-driven link quality prediction using link features
Authors: Liu Tao , Cerpa Alberto E.
Published: January 2014

As an integral part of reliable communication in wireless networks, effective link estimation is essential for routing protocols. However, due to the dynamic nature of wireless channels, accurate link quality estimation remains a challenging task. In this article, we propose 4C, a novel link estimator that applies link quality prediction along with link estimation. Our approach is data driven and consists of three steps: data collection, offline modeling, and online prediction. The data collection step involves gathering link quality data, and based on our analysis of the data, we propose a set of guidelines for the amount of data to be collected in our experimental scenarios. The modeling step includes offline prediction model training and selection. We present three prediction models that utilize different machine learning methods, namely, naive Bayes classifier, logistic regression, and artificial neural networks. Our models take a combination of PRR and the physical-layer information, that is, Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), and Link Quality Indicator (LQI) as input, and output the success probability of delivering the next packet. From our analysis and experiments, we find that logistic regression works well among the three models with small computational cost. Finally, the third step involves the implementation of 4C, a receiver-initiated online link quality prediction module that computes the short temporal link quality. We conducted extensive experiments in the Motelab and our local indoor testbeds, as well as an outdoor deployment. Our results with single- and multiple-senders experiments show that with 4C, CTP improves the average cost of delivering a packet by 20% to 30%. In some cases, the improvement is larger than 45%.
Technology for Supporting Care Staff in Residential Homes
Authors: Webster Gemma , Hanson Vicki L.
Published: January 2014

Care staff, those who attend to the day-to-day needs of people in residential facilities, represent an important segment of the health-care provision of those entrusted to their care. The potential use of technology by care staff has not been a focus of researcher attention. The work reported here provides initial steps in addressing that gap, considering both the design requirements for this population and presentation of early work on a software system for use by care staff. We describe the development of a software tool for use by care staff, called Portrait, and report two studies related to factors affecting technology use by this population. The results of this research are promising, with Portrait being very positively received by care managers and care staff. Use of this software in a care home for over a month indicated continued use, with care staff returning to the system throughout the test period. The contributions of this research are the identification of factors important in working with a care staff population, the introduction and evaluation of a novel software tool for care staff in residential homes, and the highlighting of potential benefits of technology in assisting care staff.
A new type of mathematics?
Authors: Monroe Don
Published: January 2014

New discoveries expand the scope of computer-assisted proofs of theorems.
HCIR 2013
Authors: Capra Robert , Freund Luanne , Smith Catherine L. , Smucker Mark D. , White Ryen W.
Published: January 2014

We summarize the 2013 Symposium on Human-Computer Interaction and Information Retrieval. The two-day symposium was held October 3-4 in Vancouver, BC. The event brought together researchers and practitioners from academia and industry for in-depth discussions in an informal setting. We accepted rigorously peer-reviewed full papers that will be archived and published in the ACM Digital Library, as well as short papers describing work in progress.
Microglia Development and Function
Authors: Nayak Debasis , Roth Theodore L. , McGavern Dorian B.
Published: January 2014

Proper development and function of the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) depend critically on the activity of parenchymal sentinels referred to as microglia. Although microglia were first described as ramified brain-resident phagocytes, research conducted over the past century has expanded considerably upon this narrow view and ascribed many functions to these dynamic CNS inhabitants. Microglia are now considered among the most versatile cells in the body, possessing the capacity to morphologically and functionally adapt to their ever-changing surroundings. Even in a resting state, the processes of microglia are highly dynamic and perpetually scan the CNS. Microglia are in fact vital participants in CNS homeostasis, and dysregulation of these sentinels can give rise to neurological disease. In this review, we discuss the exciting developments in our understanding of microglial biology, from their developmental origin to their participation in CNS homeostasis and pathophysiological states such as neuropsychiatric disorders, neurodegeneration, sterile injury responses, and infectious diseases. We also delve into the world of microglial dynamics recently uncovered using real-time imaging techniques.
Immigration into Europe: Economic Discrimination, Violence, and Public Policy
Authors: Dancygier Rafaela M. , Laitin David D.
Published: January 2014

Immigration has irreversibly changed Western European demographics over the past generation. This article reviews recent research drawing implications of this migration for labor-market discrimination and for immigrant–state and immigrant–native violence. It further reports on research measuring the effects of political institutions and policy regimes on reducing the barriers to immigrants' economic integration. In the course of reviewing the literature, we discuss some of the methodological challenges that scholars have not fully confronted in trying to identify the causes and consequences of discrimination and violence. In doing so, we highlight that future work needs to pay greater attention to sequencing, selection, and demographic effects. Further, we suggest ways to resolve contradictory findings in regard to preferred policies aimed at advancing immigrants' economic performance.
Sphingosine kinase 1 regulates adipose proinflammatory responses and insulin resistance
Authors: Wang Jing , Badeanlou Leylla , Bielawski Jacek , Ciaraldi Theodore P. , Samad Fahumiya
Published: January 2014

Adipose dysfunction resulting from chronic inflammation and impaired adipogenesis has increasingly been recognized as a major contributor to obesity-mediated insulin resistance, but the molecular mechanisms that maintain healthy adipocytes and limit adipose inflammation remain unclear. Here, we used genetic and pharmacological approaches to delineate a novel role for sphingosine kinase 1 (SK1) in metabolic disorders associated with obesity. SK1 phosphorylates sphingosine to form sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P), a bioactive sphingolipid with numerous roles in inflammation. SK1 mRNA expression was increased in adipose tissue of diet-induced obese (DIO) mice and obese type 2 diabetic humans. In DIO mice, SK1 deficiency increased markers of adipogenesis and adipose gene expression of the anti-inflammatory molecules IL-10 and adiponectin and reduced adipose tissue macrophage (ATM) recruitment and proinflammatory molecules TNFα and IL-6. These changes were associated with enhanced insulin signaling in adipose and muscle and improved systemic insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in SK1−/− mice. Specific pharmacological inhibition of SK1 in WT DIO mice also reduced adipocyte and ATM inflammation and improved overall glucose homeostasis. These data suggest that the SK1-S1P axis could be an attractive target for the development of treatments to ameliorate adipose inflammation and insulin resistance associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
On form and function: does chromatin packing regulate the cell cycle?
Authors: Corney David C. , Coller Hilary A.
Published: January 2014

The Systems Biology of Cell State Regulation Section is dedicated to considering how we can define a cellular state and how cells transition between states. One important decision that a cell makes is whether to cycle, that is, replicate DNA and generate daughter cells, or to exit the cell cycle in a reversible manner. The members of the Systems Biology of Cell State Regulation Editorial Board have an interest in the role of epigenetics and the commitment to a dividing or nondividing state. The ability of cells to transition between proliferating and nonproliferating states is essential for the proper formation of tissues. The ability to enter the cell cycle when needed is necessary for complex multicellular processes, such as healing injuries or mounting an immune response. Cells that fail to quiesce properly can contribute to the formation of tumors. In this perspective piece, we focus on research exploring the relationship between epigenetics and the cell cycle.
Ratio of lysine to methionine alters expression of genes involved in milk protein transcription and translation and mTOR phosphorylation in bovine mammary cells
Authors: Nan Xuemei , Bu Dengpan , Li Xiyan , Wang Jiaqi , Wei Hongyang , Hu Han , Zhou Lingyun , Loor Juan J.
Published: January 2014

This study was conducted to determine the optimum ratio of lysine and methionine (Lys:Met) to enhance milk protein concentration in vitro, focusing on the regulation of genes related to the JAK2-STAT5 and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways. A preliminary dose response study revealed that casein concentration peaked (2.5–2.7 ppm) at a supplemental Lys concentration of 1.2 mM and Met at 0.5 mM. At the peak casein concentration cell proliferation rate also was higher. Furthermore, the expression of CSN1S1, CSN1S2, CSN2, CSN3, LALBA, JAK2, STAT5, and MTOR was upregulated with both Lys and Met compared with the control. A subsequent experiment was conducted as a 5 × 3 factorial design with supplemental Lys plus Met at different ratios. When the supplemental concentration of Lys was 1.2 mM and Met was 0.4 mM (∼3:1), the concentration of casein peaked. Therefore, we measured gene expression, mTOR protein expression, and phosphorylated mTOR (p-mTOR) in cultures incubated with 3:1 Lys:Met (Lys&Met). Expression of CSN1S1 and LALBA were the most highly expressed genes ( P < 0.01). The upregulation of CSN2, CSN3, CSN1S2 isoforms ( P < 0.01) and JAK2, ELF5, mTOR ( P < 0.05) was also observed. Total mTOR protein expression was greater ( P < 0.05) with Lys alone and also Lys&Met. However, Lys&Met resulted in the greatest ( P < 0.05) p-mTOR. Results suggest that peak concentration of casein at a supplemental 3:1 Lys:Met is driven in part via upregulation of the mRNA expression of components of the JAK-STAT and mTOR pathways.
Fluorescein‐Labeled Starch Maleate Nanoparticles as Sensitive Fluorescent Sensing Probes for Metal Ions
Authors: Chin Suk Fun , Azman Aressa , Pang Suh Cem , Ng Sing Muk
Published: January 2014

Fluorescein 5(6)‐isothiocyanate starch maleate (FISM) nanoparticles were prepared by covalently attached fluorescein 5(6)‐isothiocyanate (FITC) with starch maleate. FISM nanoparticles with a mean particle size of 87 nm were formed via self‐assembly upon precipitation in ethanolic solution. FISM nanoparticles were strongly fluorescent with maximum emission wavelength of 518 nm. The fluorescence of FISM nanoparticles can be quenched by silver (Ag+) and lead (Pb2+) ions in a concentration dependent manner. We have demonstrated the first use of FISM nanoparticles as cheap and effective fluorescent sensing probes for Ag+ and Pb2+ ions with detection limits as low as 2.55 × 10−5 M and 3.64 × 10−5 M, respectively.
Mangifera indicaFruit Extract Improves Memory Impairment, Cholinergic Dysfunction, and Oxidative Stress Damage in Animal Model of Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Wattanathorn Jintanaporn , Muchimapura Supaporn , Thukham-Mee Wipawee , Ingkaninan Kornkanok , Wittaya-Areekul Sakchai
Published: January 2014

To date, the effective preventive paradigm against mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is required. Therefore, we aimed to determine whetherMangifera indicafruit extract, a substance possessing antioxidant and cognitive enhancing effects, could improve memory impairment, cholinergic dysfunction, and oxidative stress damage in animal model of mild cognitive impairment. Male Wistar rats, weighing 180–200 g, were orally given the extract at doses of 12.5, 50, and 200 mg·kg−1BW for 2 weeks before and 1 week after the bilateral injection of AF64A (icv). At the end of study, spatial memory, cholinergic neurons density, MDA level, and the activities of SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px enzymes in hippocampus were determined. The results showed that all doses of extract could improve memory together with the decreased MDA level and the increased SOD and GSH-Px enzymes activities. The increased cholinergic neurons density in CA1 and CA3 of hippocampus was also observed in rats treated with the extract at doses of 50 and 200 mg·kg−1BW. Therefore, our results suggested thatM. indica, the potential protective agent against MCI, increased cholinergic function and the decreased oxidative stress which in turn enhanced memory. However, further researches are essential to elucidate the possible active ingredients and detail mechanism.
Linear Maps on Upper Triangular Matrices Spaces Preserving Idempotent Tensor Products
Authors: Yang Li , Zhang Wei , Xu Jinli
Published: January 2014

Supposem,n≥2are positive integers. Let𝒯nbe the space of alln×ncomplex upper triangular matrices, and letϕbe an injective linear map on𝒯m⊗𝒯n. Thenϕ(A⊗B)is an idempotent matrix in𝒯m⊗𝒯nwheneverA⊗Bis an idempotent matrix in𝒯m⊗𝒯nif and only if there exists an invertible matrixP∈𝒯m⊗𝒯nsuch thatϕ(A⊗B)=P(ξ1(A)⊗ξ2(B))P-1,  ∀A∈𝒯m,  B∈𝒯n, or whenm=n,ϕ(A⊗B)=P(ξ1(B)⊗ξ2(A))P-1,  ∀A∈𝒯m,  B∈𝒯m, whereξ1([aij])=[aij]orξ1([aij])=[am-i+1,m-j+1]andξ2([bij])=[bij]orξ2([bij])=[bn-i+1,n-j+1].
Effects of Isotretinoin on the Platelet Counts and the Mean Platelet Volume in Patients with Acne Vulgaris
Authors: Ataseven Arzu , Ugur Bilgin Aynur
Published: January 2014

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the platelet counts and the mean platelet volume in patients who received isotretinoin for the treatment of acne vulgaris.Method. A total of 110 patients were included in this retrospective study. Complete blood count parameters were recorded prior to and three-months following the treatment.Results. Both platelet counts and the mean platelet volume were significantly decreased following the treatment. No significant differences were noted on the levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and white blood cell count.Conclusion. Platelet counts and mean platelet volume significantly decreased following isotretinoin treatment. Since the decrease of platelet counts and the mean platelet volume was seen concomitantly, it is concluded that the effect of isotretinoin was through the suppression of bone marrow.
Dispersive Liquid-Liquid Microextraction Combined with Ultrahigh Performance Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry for Determination of Organophosphate Esters in Aqueous Samples
Authors: Luo Haiying , Xian Yanping , Guo Xindong , Luo Donghui , Wu Yuluan , Lu Yujing , Yang Bao
Published: January 2014

A new technique was established to identify eight organophosphate esters (OPEs) in this work. It utilised dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction in combination with ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. The type and volume of extraction solvents, dispersion agent, and amount of NaCl were optimized. The target analytes were detected in the range of 1.0–200 µg/L with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.9982 to 0.9998, and the detection limits of the analytes were ranged from 0.02 to 0.07 µg/L(S/N=3). The feasibility of this method was demonstrated by identifying OPEs in aqueous samples that exhibited spiked recoveries, which ranged between 48.7% and 58.3% for triethyl phosphate (TEP) as well as between 85.9% and 113% for the other OPEs. The precision was ranged from 3.2% to 9.3% (n=6), and the interprecision was ranged from 2.6% to 12.3% (n=5). Only 2 of the 12 selected samples were tested to be positive for OPEs, and the total concentrations of OPEs in them were 1.1 and 1.6 µg/L, respectively. This method was confirmed to be simple, fast, and accurate for identifying OPEs in aqueous samples.
Incidence and Cause of Delirium in Hospitalized Patients between the Ages of 18 and 56: A Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: Weckmann Michelle T. , Bay Camden , Abu Ata Nesrin , Morrison R. Sean
Published: January 2014

Background. Delirium is a common and devastating condition which has been well characterized in elderly cancer patients, but little is known about delirium in cancer patients under the age of 65. Aim. A pilot study to explore the incidence and potential causes of delirium in hospitalized advanced cancer patients at the age of 18–56 years. Design. A retrospective chart review using validated instruments was used to examine the charts of hematology-oncology admissions in a large academic institution. Data was collected as to the likelihood of delirium and potential precipitants. Results. Delirium incidence was 29% among advanced cancer patients. The associated precipitants of delirium were multifactorial, the most common being medications and infection. Delirium was more common in patients admitted for either acute symptom management or the presence of a lung malignancy. Patients with delirium demonstrated significantly increased total hospital cost and a borderline significant result for increased mortality compared to those without delirium. Conclusions. Delirium is common in hospitalized advanced cancer patients (age 18–56 years) and the cause is typically multifactorial. Delirium results in a more complicated hospital course and likely increased mortality. Further research is needed to define strategies to prevent and treat this common and distressing condition.
Effect of Turbulence Intensity on Cross-Injection Film Cooling at a Stepped or Smooth Endwall of a Gas Turbine Vane Passage
Authors: Wu Pey-Shey , Tsai Shen-Ta , Jhuo Yue-Hua
Published: January 2014

This study is concerned with a film cooling technique applicable to the protection of the endwalls of a gas turbine vane. In the experiments, cross-injection coolant flow from two-row, paired, inclined holes with nonintersecting centerlines was utilized. The test model is a scaled two-half vane. The levels of turbulence intensity used in the experiments areT.I.=1.8%, 7%, and 12%. Other parameters considered in the film cooling experiments include three inlet Reynolds numbers(9.20×104 , 1.24×105, and 1.50×105), three blowing ratios (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0), and three endwall conditions (smooth endwall and stepped endwall with forward-facing or backward-facing step). Thermochromic liquid crystal (TLC) technique with steady-state heat transfer experiments was used to obtain the whole-field film cooling effectiveness. Results show that, at low turbulence intensity, increasing Reynolds number decreases the effectiveness in most of the vane passage. There is no monotonic trend of influence by Reynolds number at high turbulence intensity. The effect of blowing ratio on the effectiveness has opposite trends at low and high turbulence levels. Increasing turbulent intensity decreases the effectiveness, especially near the inlet of the vane passage. With a stepped endwall, turbulence intensity has only mild effect on the film cooling effectiveness.
A Review on the Study of the Generation of (Nano)particles Aerosols during the Mechanical Solicitation of Materials
Authors: Shandilya Neeraj , Le Bihan Olivier , Morgeneyer Martin
Published: January 2014

This paper focuses on presenting the forefront of the interdisciplinary studies conceived towards the generation of the wear particles aerosol when materials are subjected to mechanical stresses. Various wear mechanisms and instrumentation involved during stress application and aerosolization of wear particles, as well as particles characterization, measurement, and modeling techniques are presented through the investigation of a series of contextual works which are emphasized on the identification of these aspects. The review is motivated from the fact that understanding mechanisms involved in wear‐induced particle generation, both at nano‐ and at microscale, is important for many applications that involve surfaces sliding over each other due to various potential health aspects. An attempt has been made to explain how the information based on this broad spectrum of subjects discovered in this contribution can be used and improved in order to produce a more resilient, rational, and versatile knowledge base which has been found lacking in the present literature during its survey. The area of study is highly multidisciplinary since it involves aerosol, particle, and material sciences.
Perceptions and Portrayals of Skin Cancer among Cultural Subgroups
Authors: Kelly Stephanie , Miller Laura E. , Ahn Ho-Young , Haley J. Eric
Published: January 2014

Health communication scholars have a responsibility to be certain that both healthcare practitioners and government agencies accurately communicate health information to the public. In order to carry out this duty, health communication scholars must assess how messages are being received and if they are being received at all by the public. This paper details a two part study which assesses this phenomenon within the context of skin cancer. Study 1 utilized 29 in depth qualitative interviews to identify subcultures among college students whose communication puts them at risk for skin cancer by encouraging poor sun exposure behaviors. The results indicate that farmers, African Americans, and individuals who regularly participate in outdoor athletics are at risk groups. Study 2 reports a content analysis of the known population of skin cancer Public Service Announcements (PSAs) available via the internet in 2013. The aforementioned groups were not present in any of the PSAs. Detailed results and implications are discussed.
Rule-Based Knowledge Acquisition Method for Promoter Prediction in Human andDrosophilaSpecies
Authors: Huang Wen-Lin , Tung Chun-Wei , Liaw Chyn , Huang Hui-Ling , Ho Shinn-Ying
Published: January 2014

The rapid and reliable identification of promoter regions is important when the number of genomes to be sequenced is increasing very speedily. Various methods have been developed but few methods investigate the effectiveness of sequence-based features in promoter prediction. This study proposes a knowledge acquisition method (named PromHD) based on if-then rules for promoter prediction in human andDrosophilaspecies. PromHD utilizes an effective feature-mining algorithm and a reference feature set of 167 DNA sequence descriptors (DNASDs), comprising three descriptors of physicochemical properties (absorption maxima, molecular weight, and molar absorption coefficient), 128 top-ranked descriptors of 4-mer motifs, and 36 global sequence descriptors. PromHD identifies two feature subsets with 99 and 74 DNASDs and yields test accuracies of 96.4% and 97.5% in human andDrosophilaspecies, respectively. Based on the 99- and 74-dimensional feature vectors, PromHD generates several if-then rules by using the decision tree mechanism for promoter prediction. The top-ranked informative rules with high certainty grades reveal that the global sequence descriptor, the length of nucleotide A at the first position of the sequence, and two physicochemical properties, absorption maxima and molecular weight, are effective in distinguishing promoters from non-promoters in human andDrosophilaspecies, respectively.