bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatherhood and Managerial Style
Authors: Dahl Michael S. , Dezső Cristian L. , Ross David Gaddis
Published: November 2012

Motivated by a growing literature in the social sciences suggesting that the transition to fatherhood has a profound effect on men’s values, we study how the wages of employees change after a male chief executive officer (CEO) has children, using comprehensive panel data on the employees, CEOs, and families of CEOs in all but the smallest Danish firms between 1996 and 2006. We find that (a) a male CEO generally pays his employees less generously after fathering a child, (b) the birth of a daughter has a less negative influence on wages than does the birth of a son and has a positive influence if the daughter is the CEO’s first, and (c) the wages of female employees are less adversely affected than are those of male employees and positively affected by the CEO’s first child of either gender. We also find that male CEOs pay themselves more after fathering a child, especially after fathering a son. These results are consistent with a desire by the CEO to husband more resources for his family after fathering a child and the psychological priming of the CEO’s generosity after the birth of his first daughter and specifically toward women after the birth of his first child of either gender.
Creative Corporatism
Authors: Ornston Darius
Published: November 2012

This article documents and explains the surprising capacity of several Continental European countries to adapt to rapid, innovation-based competition. Critics and proponents alike suggest that these economies rely on incremental upmarket movement in low- and medium-technology industries. Several historically low-technology Nordic countries, however, have recently assumed leading positions in industries such as biotechnology, software, and telecommunications. The article resolves this puzzle by arguing that these countries have adapted institutionalized cooperation among organized economic actors to invest in new supply-side resources, including venture capital, skill formation, and research. This pattern of “creative corporatism” has very different implications for economic adjustment, facilitating movement into new high-technology industries. The article supports the argument by analyzing institutional change and economic restructuring in Finland, a critical case where high-technology competition is least likely. The article documents similar developments in Denmark and Sweden, situating all three cases in relation to literature on comparative political economy.
Catchall or Catch and Release? The Electoral Consequences of Social Democratic Parties’ March to the Middle in Western Europe
Authors: Karreth Johannes , Polk Jonathan T. , Allen Christopher S.
Published: November 2012

Although the move to the center of many European Social Democratic parties in the 1990s was first rewarded with victories, these parties have since faced a remarkable electoral drought. What explains the seeming inability of these catchall parties to cast a wider but sustainable net for voters? Incorporating a temporal dimension helps explain when and why the broadening of party platforms fails and produces counterintuitive electoral outcomes. Our empirical study analyzes the votes of individuals in three European countries in the past three decades. The individual level allows us to track changes in parties’ voter structures, which are necessarily omitted from studies using aggregate vote shares. Our findings indicate that current analyses of the electoral effects of strategy shifts are misleading inasmuch as they fail to account for individual-level motivations for vote switching.
Presidential Address
Authors: Chung Y. Barry
Published: November 2012

This was a Presidential Address for the Society of Counseling Psychology delivered at the 2012 American Psychological Association Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida. It was based on interviews with 10 informants, as well as my own experience, regarding our personal and professional journeys as immigrant counseling psychologists in the United States. The purpose of the presentation was to increase awareness of the obstacles, triumph, and contributions of immigrant counseling psychologists. I discussed our upbringing experience, family support for career decisions, obstacles and sources of strength, influential persons, relation between immigrant experience and work as counseling psychologists, contributions to counseling psychology, and wisdom to share with the counseling psychology profession.
Social characteristics of psychological distress in disadvantaged areas of Berlin
Authors: Mundt Adrian , Kliewe T , Yayla S , Ignatyev Y , Busch MA , Heimann H , Heinz A , Rapp MA , Schouler-Ocak M , Ströhle A , Aichberger MC
Published: November 2012

Purpose:

Living in disadvantaged urban areas is associated with poor mental health. The purpose of this study was to assess which social characteristics were associated with psychological distress within a disadvantaged, multi-ethnic neighbourhood of Berlin.

Methods:

The study was conducted in an area of Berlin with the highest rates of unemployment and highest density of migrants. A total of 143 participants aged 18–57 years were included from a random sample. The social characteristics educational level, employment status, marital status, living alone, per-capita income and background of migration were collected. Psychological distress was assessed using the General Health Questionnaire GHQ-28; scores ≥ 5 indicated psychological distress corresponding to psychiatric caseness.

Results:

Psychological distress was found in 40.6% ( n = 58) of the sample. Psychological distress was associated with younger age (OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.92–0.98, p = .004), female gender (OR = 3.51, 95% CI = 1.55–7.92, p = .003) and living alone (OR = 3.88, 95% CI = 1.58–9.52, p = .003), but not with background of migration, low educational level or with unemployment.

Conclusions:

Young age and female gender may predispose for psychological distress in disadvantaged areas. Living alone could be a social indicator of poor mental health within disadvantaged urban areas. The directionality of the association is unclear. Background of migration, low income and educational level do not seem to be associated with poor mental health within those areas.
Dry sliding wear behavior of titanium matrix composites hybrid-reinforced by in situ TiBw and TiCp
Authors: Qin YL , Geng L , Ni DR
Published: November 2012

Titanium matrix composites (TMCs) hybrid-reinforced by in situ titanium–boron whisker (TiBw) and titanium–carbide particle (TiCp) were fabricated by reactive hot pressing method. The dry sliding wearing behavior of the TMCs was investigated by pin-on-disc tests under the normal loads ranging from 40 to 100 N, and the effects of reinforcements were discussed. The TMCs showed much lower friction coefficient and improved wear resistances than the Ti matrix. No reinforcements were pulled out during sliding due to the strong interface bonding strength between the Ti matrix and the reinforcements. The TMCs exhibited a mixed-wear mode of adhesive and abrasive. The results showed that the TiBw was more effective to improve the wear resistance of TMCs than the TiCp due to its higher aspect ratio and load-bearing capacity during sliding wear.
Damage identification in carbon fiber reinforced polymer plates using electrical resistance tomography mapping
Authors: Baltopoulos Athanasios , Polydorides Nick , Pambaguian Laurent , Vavouliotis Antonios , Kostopoulos Vassilis
Published: November 2012

This study addresses the issue of structural damage identification and location in carbon fiber reinforced polymer plates using electrical measurements. Electrical resistance tomography is presented as a method for structural damage localization in composite parts. A set of electrodes is fixed on the edges of the part and combinations of DC current injections and voltage measurements are applied to the system. The change of voltage between different times in the part’s service life (e.g. start and degraded) are monitored. These sets of measurements are used as input to inversely calculate conductivity maps for the complete composite part and thus indirectly assess its structural health. Such processes are inherently ill-posed. Data post-processing approaches are proposed here to diminish this uncertainty and to conclude to an optimally converge solution of the inverse problem. To assist the process, a material-originating mathematical constraint is introduced. The method is applied on carbon fiber reinforced polymer plates for different damage modes. Experimental recordings show that the analysis of electrical fields allows detecting the presence of damage. Discontinuities as small as 0.1% of the inspected area can be sensed. The proposed data post-processing techniques were applied and conductivity maps were calculated. The results show that using these techniques locating damage is possible with less than 10% error. Material-based constraints greatly enhance the prediction of the data post-processing techniques. It is believed that by overcoming certain implementation issues, electrical resistance tomography could evolve in the direction of a non-destructive evaluation or a structural health monitoring technique for composite structures.
The Maker of Lies: Simmel, Mendacity and the Economy of Faith
Authors: Barbour Charles
Published: November 2012

Georg Simmel’s treatment of the lie – in the essay ‘The Sociology of Secrecy and Secret Societies’, but in other, lesser known texts as well – is an aspect of his thought that has not received a great deal of attention among theorists. And yet many of his better known contributions to social theory – including his concepts of ‘interaction’ and ‘sociation’, his appreciation of the spatial and the aesthetic dimensions of social life, and his speculations about culture and subjectivity in the modern world – draw on ideas that he developed while contemplating the problem of deception. In this article, I bring Simmel’s work on mendacity to the fore, and show how a consideration of it sheds new light on some of his most familiar claims. I further argue that Simmel’s work on the lie illuminates a very old and vexing set of philosophical debates, and especially the debate over self-deception, or whether or not it is possible to lie to oneself. Along with providing a close study of his comments on the lie in ‘The Sociology of Secrecy and Secret Societies’, and in the chapter of his monumental Sociology that is based on that essay, I propose a reading of Simmel’s heretofore ignored fable or fairytale ‘Der Lügenmacher’ – one of the eight short pieces that he published pseudonymously between 1899 and 1903 in the cultural journal Der Jugend under the heading ‘ Momentbilder’ or ‘Snapshots, sub specie aeternitatis’.
Perceived Benefits, Motives, and Barriers to Aqua-based Exercise Among Older Adults With and Without Osteoarthritis
Authors: Fisken Alison , Keogh Justin W. L. , Waters Debra L. , Hing Wayne A.
Published: November 2012

This study aimed to (a) identify factors that motivate older adults to participate in aqua-based exercise; (b) identify potential barriers; and (c) compare perceptions between older adults with and without osteoarthritis (OA). Fifteen adults above 60 years of age participated in one of three focus groups during which they discussed perceived benefits, motives, and barriers to aqua exercise. Pain reduction was considered a major benefit among those with OA, improved health and fitness was a principal benefit for those without OA. All participants felt that the instructor could act as both a motivator and barrier; the most significant barrier was cold changing facilities in winter. With the exception of pain reduction, perceived benefits, motivators, and barriers to aqua-based exercise are similar among older adults with and without OA. A greater understanding of these factors may help us to facilitate older adults with OA to initiate and adhere to aqua-based exercise.
Effects of lichen extracts on haematological parameters of rats with experimental insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
Authors: Çolak Suat , Geyikoğlu Fatime , Aslan Ali , Deniz Gülşah Yıldız
Published: November 2012

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in the world is steadily increasing. Oxidative stress contributes to the development of diabetic complications, including diabetic haematological changes. Lichens are used as food supplements and are also used as possible natural antioxidant, antimicrobial and anticancer agents. We hypothesized that antioxidant activity of lichens may decrease hyperglycaemia-induced oxidative stress and prevent the development of diabetic complications, including abnormality in haematological condition. Therefore, the effects of Cetraria islandica water extract (CIWE) and Pseudevernia furfuracea water extract (PFWE) on the haematological parameters of rats with type 1 DM were investigated for the first time in the present study. Control Sprague-Dawley or streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats were either untreated or treated with water lichen extracts (5–500 mg/kg body weight (bw)/day) for 2 weeks, starting at 72 h after STZ injection. On day 14, animals were anaesthetized and haematological and metabolic parameters were determined between control and experimental groups. In addition, the total oxidative stress (TOS), a specific indicator of oxidative stress, and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured by biochemical studies. In diabetic rats, CIWE of 250–500 mg/kg bw dose showed more prominent results when compared with doses of PFWE for TAC. The results obtained in the present study suggested that the antioxidant activities of lichens might be the possible reason behind the observed antihaematological status. However, the protective effect of lichen extracts were inadequate on diabetes-induced microcytic hypochromic anaemia. In addition, the extracts have no effect on metabolic complications. Our experimental data showed that high doses of CIWE and PFWE alone have no detrimental effect on blood cells and TOS status of plasma. Hence, they are safe and suitable for different administration routes.
Relationship between carbon monoxide intoxication and sister chromatid exchange in lymphocytes
Authors: Tarik Ocak , Zeynep Ocak , Hasan Dogan , Mustafa Uzkeser , Ahmet Yesilyurt , Mevlit Ikbal , Şahin Aslan
Published: November 2012

Aim:

Carbon monoxide (CO) intoxication can be serious and is reported to be the cause of more than half of all fatal intoxications. In this study, we aimed to identify its genotoxic effects based on sister chromatid exchange (SCE).

Materials and methods:

CO-poisoned patients presented to the emergency services department were identified. Their demographic characteristics, vital findings, laboratory markers, source of CO gas, risk factors, and smoking habits were recorded. The genotoxic effect was assessed using the SCE method.

Results:

A total of 38 patients were recruited. Their ages ranged from 16–64 years (mean: 29.79 ± 10.92 years). In all the cases, the source of CO gas was a flash heater. The mean carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) level was 25.05 ± 7.15%. Of all the patients, 12 (31.6%) had a the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores of less than 15, and an important negative correlation was found between the GCS and COHb level ( r = −0.825; p < 0.001). Genotoxicity investigations revealed a significantly higher SCE frequency among patients with high COHb levels compared with that of control subjects with physiological COHb levels ( p < 0.001). However, no correlation between increased SCE frequency and COHb level was found ( r = 0.16; p = 0.34).

Conclusion:

CO poisoning was shown to result in genotoxicity via an increase in the frequency of SCE. This study is the first to demonstrate a genotoxic effect of CO independent of other chemicals.
Reflections on an Alternative Approach to Continuing Professional Learning for Internationalization of the Curriculum Across Disciplines
Authors: Green Wendy , Whitsed Craig
Published: November 2012

Academics at the coalface of teaching and learning often feel undersupported, underprepared, and underconfident in “internationalizing the curriculum” (IoC). The formal, structured programs designed by institutions to meet the needs of academics for continuing professional learning (CPL) in our rapidly changing sector fail to engage many academics. As centrally situated higher education/student learning academics, the authors present one alternative approach to CPL, developed in the context of an Australian Learning and Teaching Fellowship: “Internationalization of the Curriculum in Action.” First, the authors reflect on the engagement of disciplinary academics throughout the project; this underscores the value of critical, reflective conversations within and across disciplines. Second, the authors reflect on their own role in creating this critical (inter)disciplinary space; this underscores the value of introducing a theoretical framework for reviewing and developing IoC, providing a structure for the process, igniting the imagination of participants, and questioning and collectively acting on institutionalized enablers and blockers to IoC.
Dynamic modeling and robust control of an L-shaped microrobot based on fast trilayer polypyrrole-bending actuators
Authors: Amiri Moghadam Amir Ali , Torabi Keivan , Moavenian Majid , Davoodi Rozita
Published: November 2012

In this article, analytical dynamic model derivation and robust position control of a microrobot based on fast trilayer polypyrrole-bending actuators employing quantitative feedback theory is presented. The conjugated polymer actuators based on polypyrrole can be employed to achieve microscale precision positioning, having a wide range of application including biomimetic robots and biomedical devices. There has been extensive research on modeling the electrochemical dynamics of polypyrrole bending actuators. However, the mechanical dynamics modeling of actuator remains to be unexplored. In this article, we first develop a proper mechanical dynamics model for the fast-conducting polymer actuators that matches well with the existing experimental results and then extend it to a microrobot. In the controlling part, the robust control quantitative feedback theory will be used to control the microrobot with variable tip loading. The numerical simulation results show that the quantitative feedback theory controller has consistent and robust-tracking performance.
Transverse strain effects on the thermal expansion measurement of composite structure using fiber Bragg grating sensors: Experimental validation
Authors: Yoon Jae-San , Kim Hong-Il , Han Jae-Hung
Published: November 2012

When transverse strain is much larger than the longitudinal one, conventional fiber Bragg grating measurement model presents significant errors in the longitudinal strain measurement. The present authors presented a fiber Bragg grating measurement model to consider transverse strain effects and numerically demonstrated the effectiveness of the model. This article experimentally validates the fiber Bragg grating measurement model by measuring thermal expansion of anisotropic composite specimens and an isotropic invar specimen. The longitudinal thermal expansion of the specimens is measured by using fiber Bragg grating sensors and compared with a reference measurement result using an optical interferometer. The proposed fiber Bragg grating model shows good agreement with the reference measurement for the longitudinal strain while large discrepancy (~22%) is observed according to the conventional one-dimensional fiber Bragg grating model.
Exploring Care Transitions From Patient, Caregiver, and Health-Care Provider Perspectives
Authors: Fuji Kevin T. , Abbott Amy A. , Norris Joan F.
Published: November 2012

Care transitions involve coordination of patient care across multiple care settings. Many problems occur during care transitions resulting in negative patient outcomes and unnecessary readmissions. The purpose of this study was to describe the experience of care transitions from patient, caregiver, and health-care provider perspectives in a single metropolitan Midwest city. A qualitative descriptive design was used to solicit patients’, caregivers’, and health-care providers’ perceptions of care transitions, their role within the process, barriers to effective care transitions, and strategies to overcome these barriers. Five themes emerged: preplanned admissions are ideal; lack of needed patient information upon admission; multiple services are needed in preparing patients for discharge; rushed or delayed discharges lead to patient misunderstanding; and difficulties in following aftercare instructions. Findings illustrated provider difficulty in meeting multiple care needs, and the need for patient-centered care to achieve positive outcomes associated with quality measures, reduced readmissions, and care transitions.
Effects of Manidipine Plus Rosuvastatin Versus Olmesartan Plus Rosuvastatin on Markers of Insulin Resistance in Patients With Impaired Fasting Glucose, Hypertension, and Mixed Dyslipidemia
Authors: Liberopoulos Evangelos N. , Moutzouri Elisavet , Rizos Christos V. , Barkas Fotis , Liamis George , Elisaf Moses S.
Published: November 2012

Aim:

To compare the effect of manidipine 20 mg plus rosuvastatin 10 mg versus olmesartan 20 mg plus rosuvastatin 10 mg on markers of insulin resistance in patients with mixed dyslipidemia, hypertension, and impaired fasting glucose (IFG).

Methods:

This study had a prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded endpoint (PROBE) design. A total of 40 patients with IFG, mixed dyslipidemia, and stage 1 hypertension were included. Following dietary intervention, patients were randomly allocated to rosuvastatin (10 mg/d) plus olmesartan (20 mg/d) or manidipine (20 mg/d). The primary end point was the between-group difference in changes in the Homeostasis Model Assessment Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) index following 3 months of treatment. Secondary end points included changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting insulin levels, and glucosylated hemoglobin.

Results:

At the end of the 3-month treatment period, a significant increase in HOMA-IR index by 14% (from 2.4 [0.5-7.9] to 2.7 [0.5-5.2], P = .02 versus baseline) was seen in the olmesartan plus rosuvastatin group. On the contrary, no significant change in HOMA-IR index was observed in the manidipine plus rosuvastatin group (1.7 [0.5-5.2] to 1.7 [0.8-6.0], P = NS versus baseline, P = .04 versus olmesartan plus rosuvastatin group). An increase in fasting insulin levels was observed in the olmesartan plus rosuvastatin group (+8%, from 10.1 [2.0-29.6] to 10.9 [2.0-19.1] μU/mL, P < .05 versus baseline), while no significant change was seen in the manidipine plus rosuvastatin group (+3%, from 7.3 [2.0-17.6] to 7.5 [1.9-15.6] μU/mL, P = NS versus baseline, P = .02 versus olmesartan plus rosuvastatin group). Fasting plasma glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin did not change significantly in any group.

Conclusion:

Manidipine seems to ameliorate the possible statin-associated increase in insulin resistance as compared with olmesartan in patients with IFG, hypertension, and mixed dyslipidemia.
Wind energy structures: modal analysis by the continuous model approach
Authors: Makarios Triantafyllos K , Baniotopoulos Charalambos C
Published: November 2012

In the present paper the continuous model method is applied to the prototype of a wind turbine tower in order to perform its modal structural analysis. This mathematical analysis is used as an alternative approach to the modal analysis method that uses discrete models. It is well known that in discrete models with high-level discretization and a large number of finite elements, several open questions on the accuracy, the convergence and the stability of the solution arise during the modal or response history analysis. In this sense, the results of the analysis by means of discrete modeling are in several cases doubtful and, therefore, a modal analysis by applying a continuous model as an effective alternative is recommended. To this end, the present paper proposes a continuous model approach to calculate the eigen-frequencies, periods and mode shapes to a wind turbine tower prototype. Starting from the equilibrium of forces on a differential element of the structure, the equation of motion of the tower is formulated and using in turn the known boundary conditions at the two ends of the wind tower, the tower eigen-problem is numerically treated and solved. The action of the higher mode-shapes is very important and may become critical in the case that the tower is subjected to strong dynamic loading (cf. e.g. wind) and simultaneously is excited by a strong seismic motion.
Secondary genetic lesions in acute myeloid leukemia with inv(16) or t(16;16): a study of the German-Austrian AML Study Group (AMLSG)
Authors: Paschka Peter , Du Juan , Schlenk Richard F. , Gaidzik Verena I. , Bullinger Lars , Corbacioglu Andrea , Späth Daniela , Kayser Sabine , Schlegelberger Brigitte , Krauter Jürgen , Ganser Arnold , Köhne Claus-Henning , Held Gerhard , von Lilienfeld-Toal Marie , Kirchen Heinz , Rummel Mathias , Götze Katharina , Horst Heinz-August , Ringhoffer Mark , Lübbert Michael , Wattad Mohammed , Salih Helmut R. , Kündgen Andrea , Döhner Hartmut , Döhner Konstanze
Published: November 2012

In this study, we evaluated the impact of secondary genetic lesions in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with inv(16)(p13.1q22) or t(16;16)(p13.1;q22); CBFB-MYH11. We studied 176 patients, all enrolled on prospective treatment trials, for secondary chromosomal aberrations and mutations in N-/KRAS, KIT, FLT3, and JAK2 (V617F) genes. Most frequent chromosomal aberrations were trisomy 22 (18%) and trisomy 8 (16%). Overall, 84% of patients harbored at least 1 gene mutation, with RAS being affected in 53% (45% NRAS; 13% KRAS) of the cases, followed by KIT (37%) and FLT3 (17%; FLT3-TKD [14%], FLT3-ITD [5%]). None of the secondary genetic lesions influenced achievement of complete remission. In multivariable analyses, KIT mutation (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.67; P = .04], log10(WBC) (HR = 1.33; P = .02), and trisomy 22 (HR = 0.54; P = .08) were relevant factors for relapse-free survival; for overall survival, FLT3 mutation (HR = 2.56; P = .006), trisomy 22 (HR = 0.45; P = .07), trisomy 8 (HR = 2.26; P = .02), age (difference of 10 years, HR = 1.46; P = .01), and therapy-related AML (HR = 2.13; P = .14) revealed as prognostic factors. The adverse effects of KIT and FLT3 mutations were mainly attributed to exon 8 and tyrosine kinase domain mutations, respectively. Our large study emphasizes the impact of both secondary chromosomal aberrations as well as gene mutations for outcome in AML with inv(16)/t (16;16).
Weak contractive inequalities and compatible mixed monotone random operators in ordered metric spaces
Authors: Hussain N , Latif A , Shafqat N
Published: November 2012

The aim of this work is to define the notion of compatible random operators in a partially ordered metric space and prove some coupled random coincidence theorems for a pair of compatible mixed monotone random operators satisfying

(
ϕ
,
φ
)

-weak contractive conditions. These results present random versions and extensions of recent results of Ćirić and Lakshmikantham (Stoch. Anal. Appl. 27:1246-1259, 2009), Choudhury and Kundu (Nonlinear Anal. 73:2524-2531, 2010), Alotaibi and Alsulami (Fixed Point Theory Appl. 2011:44, 2011) and many others.
The interpretation of disease phenotypes to identify TSE strains following murine bioassay: characterisation of classical scrapie
Authors: Beck Katy E , Vickery Christopher M , Lockey Richard , Holder Thomas , Thorne Leigh , Terry Linda A , Denyer Margaret , Webb Paul , Simmons Marion M , Spiropoulos John
Published: November 2012

Mouse bioassay can be readily employed for strain typing of naturally occurring transmissible spongiform encephalopathy cases. Classical scrapie strains have been characterised historically based on the established methodology of assessing incubation period of disease and the distribution of disease-specific vacuolation across the brain following strain stabilisation in a given mouse line. More recent research has shown that additional methods could be used to characterise strains and thereby expand the definition of strain “phenotype”. Here we present the phenotypic characteristics of classical scrapie strains isolated from 24 UK ovine field cases through the wild-type mouse bioassay. PrPSc immunohistochemistry (IHC), paraffin embedded tissue blots (PET-blot) and Western blotting approaches were used to determine the neuroanatomical distribution and molecular profile of PrPSc associated with each strain, in conjunction with traditional methodologies. Results revealed three strains isolated through each mouse line, including a previously unidentified strain. Moreover IHC and PET-blot methodologies were effective in characterising the strain-associated types and neuroanatomical locations of PrPSc. The use of Western blotting as a parameter to define classical scrapie strains was limited. These data provide a comprehensive description of classical scrapie strain phenotypes on isolation through the mouse bioassay that can provide a reference for further scrapie strain identification.
Toward understanding the genetic basis of adaptation to high-elevation life in poikilothermic species: A comparative transcriptomic analysis of two ranid frogs, Rana chensinensis and R. kukunoris
Authors: Yang Weizhao , Qi Yin , Bi Ke , Fu Jinzhong
Published: November 2012

Background

Understanding how organisms adapt to high-elevation environments at a genome scale provides novel insights into the process of adaptive evolution. Previous studies have mainly focused on endothermic organisms, while poikilothermic species may have evolved different mechanisms to cope with high-elevation environments. In this context, we sequenced transcriptomes of a pair of closely related anuran species, Rana chensinensis and R. kukunoris, which inhabit respective low- and high-elevation habitats. By comparing the two transcriptomes, we identified candidate genes that may be involved in high-elevation adaption in poikilothermic species.

Results

Over 66 million sequence reads from each transcriptome were generated. A total of 41,858 and 39,293 transcripts for each species were obtained by de novo assembly. By comparing the orthologous transcripts, we identified 125 protein-coding genes that have likely experienced strong positive selection (Ka/Ks>1). In addition, 335 genes that may bear a signature of positive selection (1≥Ka/Ks>0.5) were also recognized. By considering their functions, fourteen candidate genes were determined to be likely involved in high-elevation adaptation, including two CYP genes, USP-1, and several others.

Conclusions

We identified a set of candidate genes that may have promoted adaptation of R. kukunoris to its high-elevation environment. These include several genes that have previously been associated with oxygen binding, response to UV radiation, and repair of free radical injury. Detailed molecular, physiological, and phenotypic studies are required to better understand the roles of these genes in improving the performance of R. kukunoris in a high-elevation environment. We have evidence for both convergent and divergent evolution between endothermic and poikilothemic species, but additional research across a wide range of organisms will be necessary to comprehend the complexity of high-elevation adaptation.
Kalrnplays key roles within and outside of the nervous system
Authors: Mandela Prashant , Yankova Maya , Conti Lisa H , Ma Xin-Ming , Grady James , Eipper Betty A , Mains Richard E
Published: November 2012

Background

The human KALRN gene, which encodes a complex, multifunctional Rho GDP/GTP exchange factor, has been linked to cardiovascular disease, psychiatric disorders and neurodegeneration. Examination of existing Kalrn knockout mouse models has focused only on neuronal phenotypes. However, Kalirin was first identified through its interaction with an enzyme involved in the synthesis and secretion of multiple bioactive peptides, and studies in C.elegans revealed roles for its orthologue in neurosecretion.

Results

We used a broad array of tests to evaluate the effects of ablating a single exon in the spectrin repeat region of Kalrn (KalSRKO/KO); transcripts encoding Kalrn isoforms containing only the second GEF domain can still be produced from the single remaining functional Kalrn promoter. As expected, KalSRKO/KO mice showed a decrease in anxiety-like behavior and a passive avoidance deficit. No changes were observed in prepulse inhibition of acoustic startle or tests of depression-like behavior. Growth rate, parturition and pituitary secretion of growth hormone and prolactin were deficient in the KalSRKO/KO mice. Based on the fact that a subset of Kalrn isoforms is expressed in mouse skeletal muscle and the observation that muscle function in C.elegans requires its Kalrn orthologue, KalSRKO/KO mice were evaluated in the rotarod and wire hang tests. KalSRKO/KO mice showed a profound decrease in neuromuscular function, with deficits apparent in KalSR+/KO mice; these deficits were not as marked when loss of Kalrn expression was restricted to the nervous system. Pre- and postsynaptic deficits in the neuromuscular junction were observed, along with alterations in sarcomere length.

Conclusions

Many of the widespread and diverse deficits observed both within and outside of the nervous system when expression of Kalrn is eliminated may reflect its role in secretory granule function and its expression outside of the nervous system.
Expression of flavonoid 3’-hydroxylase is controlled by P1, the regulator of 3-deoxyflavonoid biosynthesis in maize
Authors: Sharma Mandeep , Chai Chenglin , Morohashi Kengo , Grotewold Erich , Snook Maurice E , Chopra Surinder
Published: November 2012

Background

The maize (Zea mays) red aleurone1 (pr1) encodes a CYP450-dependent flavonoid 3’-hydroxylase (ZmF3’H1) required for the biosynthesis of purple and red anthocyanin pigments. We previously showed that Zmf3’h1 is regulated by C1 (Colorless1) and R1 (Red1) transcription factors. The current study demonstrates that, in addition to its role in anthocyanin biosynthesis, the Zmf3’h1 gene also participates in the biosynthesis of 3-deoxyflavonoids and phlobaphenes that accumulate in maize pericarps, cob glumes, and silks. Biosynthesis of 3-deoxyflavonoids is regulated by P1 (Pericarp color1) and is independent from the action of C1 and R1 transcription factors.

Results

In maize, apiforol and luteoforol are the precursors of condensed phlobaphenes. Maize lines with functional alleles of pr1 and p1 (Pr1;P1) accumulate luteoforol, while null pr1 lines with a functional or non-functional p1 allele (pr1;P1 or pr1;p1) accumulate apiforol. Apiforol lacks a hydroxyl group at the 3’-position of the flavylium B-ring, while luteoforol has this hydroxyl group. Our biochemical analysis of accumulated compounds in different pr1 genotypes showed that the pr1 encoded ZmF3’H1 has a role in the conversion of mono-hydroxylated to bi-hydroxylated compounds in the B-ring. Steady state RNA analyses demonstrated that Zmf3’h1 mRNA accumulation requires a functional p1 allele. Using a combination of EMSA and ChIP experiments, we established that the Zmf3’h1 gene is a direct target of P1. Highlighting the significance of the Zmf3’h1 gene for resistance against biotic stress, we also show here that the p1 controlled 3-deoxyanthocyanidin and C-glycosyl flavone (maysin) defence compounds accumulate at significantly higher levels in Pr1 silks as compared to pr1 silks. By virtue of increased maysin synthesis in Pr1 plants, corn ear worm larvae fed on Pr1; P1 silks showed slower growth as compared to pr1; P1 silks.

Conclusions

Our results show that the Zmf3’h1 gene participates in the biosynthesis of phlobaphenes and agronomically important 3-deoxyflavonoid compounds under the regulatory control of P1.
Dissecting tocopherols content in maize (Zea mays L.), using two segregating populations and high-density single nucleotide polymorphism markers
Authors: Shutu Xu , Dalong Zhang , Ye Cai , Yi Zhou , Shah Trushar , Ali Farhan , Qing Li , Zhigang Li , Weidong Wang , Jiansheng Li , Xiaohong Yang , Jianbing Yan
Published: November 2012

Background

Tocopherols, which are vitamin E compounds, play an important role in maintaining human health. Compared with other staple foods, maize grains contain high level of tocopherols.

Results

Two F2 populations (K22/CI7 and K22/Dan340, referred to as POP-1 and POP-2, respectively), which share a common parent (K22), were developed and genotyped using a GoldenGate assay containing 1,536 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. An integrated genetic linkage map was constructed using 619 SNP markers, spanning a total of 1649.03 cM of the maize genome with an average interval of 2.67 cM. Seventeen quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for all the traits were detected in the first map and 13 in the second. In these two maps, QTLs for different traits were localized to the same genomic regions and some were co-located with candidate genes in the tocopherol biosynthesis pathway. Single QTL was responsible for 3.03% to 52.75% of the phenotypic variation and the QTLs in sum explained23.4% to 66.52% of the total phenotypic variation. A major QTL (qc5-1/qd5-1) affecting α-tocopherol (αT) was identified on chromosome 5 between the PZA03161.1 and PZA02068.1 in the POP-2. The QTL region was narrowed down from 18.7 Mb to 5.4 Mb by estimating the recombination using high-density markers of the QTL region. This allowed the identification of the candidate gene VTE4 which encodes γ-tocopherol methyltransferase, an enzyme that transforms γ-tocopherol (γT)to αT.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that a few QTLs with major effects and several QTLs with medium to minor effects might contribute to the natural variation of tocopherols in maize grain. The high-density markers will help to fine map and identify the QTLs with major effects even in the preliminary segregating populations. Furthermore, this study provides a simple guide line for the breeders to improve traits that minimize the risk of malnutrition, especially in developing countries.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus nasal carriage among patients receiving hemodialysis in Taiwan: prevalence rate, molecular characterization and de-colonization
Authors: Kang Yu-Chuan , Tai Wei-Chen , Yu Chun-Chen , Kang Je-Ho , Huang Yhu-Chering
Published: November 2012

Background

Staphylococcus aureus, particularly methicillin resistant (MRSA), is a common pathogen among patients receiving hemodialysis. To evaluate nasal carriage, molecular characterization and effectiveness of decolonization of MRSA among patients receiving hemodialysis in Taiwan, we conducted this study.

Methods

From January to June 2011, two nasal samplings with a 3-month interval were obtained from patients undergoing hemodialysis in a medical center (CGMH), and in a local hospital (YMH) and sent for detection of MRSA. For MRSA carriers, decolonization procedures were administered. All patients in CGMH were observed if MRSA infections occurred during the study period.

Results

A total of 529 nasal specimens (265 from CGMH and 264 from YMH) were collected from 296 patients (161 from CGMH and 135 from YMH). 233 patients participated in both surveys. Average one-time point MRSA carriage rate was 3.8%, and the rate was up to 6.9% for those with two-time point surveys. No additional significant factor for MRSA carriage was identified. Seventy percent of the 20 colonizing MRSA isolates, though categorized as healthcare-associated strains epidemiologically, shared common molecular characteristics of the local community-associated strains. Only one of the 20 MRSA-colonized patients failed decolonization and had persistent colonization, while without any intervention, 17 (61%) of 28 patients with methicillin-sensitive S. aureus colonization in the first survey had persistent colonization of a genetically indistinguishable strain. Within the study period, two patients (1.24%) in CGMH, one with MRSA colonization (9.1%), developed MRSA infection.

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of patients receiving hemodialysis in Taiwan had MRSA colonization, mostly genetically community strains. Decolonization procedures may effectively eliminate MRSA colonization and might reduce subsequent MRSA infection in these patients.
Risk factors associated with brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity among peritoneal dialysis patients in Macao
Authors: Kuang Ding-Wei , Li Chiu-Leong , Kuok Un-I , Cheung Kin , Lio Weng-In , Xin Jing
Published: November 2012

Background

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality among peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients in Macao. Increased arterial stiffness determined by pulse wave velocity (PWV) has been established as an independent predictor of cardiovascular mortality in end-stage renal disease patients. The present study aims to investigate the relationship between arterial stiffness and its associated risk factors in chronic PD patients.

Methods

A total of 96 chronic PD patients (48 males/48 females) were included in the cross-sectional study. Arterial stiffness was assessed by brachial-ankle PWV (baPWV). Patients were divided into two subgroups according to mean baPWV value. On enrollment, clinical characteristics and biochemical parameters were collected.

Results

Compared with low baPWV group patients, high baPWV group patients were significant older (p<0.001) and more likely to have a high proportion of female gender (p=0.004) as well as previous CVD history (p=0.008). Serum albumin, pre-albumin levels and residual renal creatinine clearance (CCr) were significantly lower but the serum ferritin level was significantly higher in high baPWV group patients than in low baPWV group patients (all p<0.01). BaPWV was positively associated with age (r=0.534, p<0.001), Charlson comorbidity index (r=0.350, p<0.001) and serum ferritin level (r=0.340, p=0.001). Meanwhile, baPWV negatively correlated with serum albumin (r=−0.479, p<0.001), pre-albumin levels (r=−0.320, p=0.003) and residual renal CCr (r=−0.177, p=0.048). Age-adjusted partial correlation test found a significant correlation between baPWV and CRP (r=0.462, p<0.001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that baPWV was independently associated with age (p<0.001), serum albumin level (p=0.015), CRP (p=0.019) and residual renal CCr (p=0.045).

Conclusion

Arterial stiffness, assessed by baPWV, had an independent correlation with age, serum albumin level, CRP level and residual renal CCr among PD patients in Macao.
Rationale for short course primaquine in Africa to interrupt malaria transmission
Authors: Eziefula Alice C , Gosling Roly , Hwang Jimee , Hsiang Michelle S , Bousema Teun , von Seidlein Lorenz , Drakeley Chris
Published: November 2012

Following the recent successes of malaria control in sub-Saharan Africa, the gametocytocidal drug primaquine needs evaluation as a tool to further reduce the transmission of Plasmodium falciparum malaria. The drug has scarcely been used in Africa because of concerns about its safety in people with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. The evidence base for the use of primaquine as a transmission blocker is limited by a lack of comparable clinical and parasitological endpoints between trials. In March 2012, a group of experts met in London to discuss the existing evidence on the ability of primaquine to block malaria transmission, to define the roadblocks to the use of primaquine in Africa and to develop a roadmap to enable its rapid, safe and effective deployment. The output of this meeting is a strategic plan to optimize trial design to reach desired goals efficiently. The roadmap includes suggestions for a series of phase 1, 2, 3 and 4 studies to address specific hurdles to primaquine’s deployment. These include ex-vivo studies on efficacy, primaquine pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics and dose escalation studies for safety in high-risk groups. Phase 3 community trials are proposed, along with Phase 4 studies to evaluate safety, particularly in pregnancy, through pharmacovigilance in areas where primaquine is already deployed. In parallel, efforts need to be made to address issues in drug supply and regulation, to map G6PD deficiency and to support the evaluation of alternative gametocytocidal compounds.
The DEAD/DEAH box helicase, DDX11, is essential for the survival of advanced melanomas
Authors: Bhattacharya Chitralekha , Wang Xiaolei , Becker Dorothea
Published: November 2012

Background

Despite continuous efforts to identify genes that are pivotal regulators of advanced melanoma and closely related to it, to determine which of these genes have to be blocked in their function to keep this highly aggressive disease in check, it is far from clear which molecular pathway(s) and specific genes therein, is the Achilles’ heel of primary and metastatic melanoma. In this report, we present data, which document that the DEAD-box helicase DDX11, which is required for sister chromatid cohesion, is a crucial gatekeeper for melanoma cell survival.

Methods

Performing immunohistochemistry and immunoblot analysis, we determined expression of DDX11 in melanoma tissues and cell lines. Following transfection of melanoma cells with a DDX11-specific siRNA, we conducted a qPCR analysis to determine downregulation of DDX11 in the transfected melanoma cells. In subsequent studies, which focused upon an analysis of fluorescently labeled as well as Giesma-stained chromosome spreads, a proliferation analysis and apoptosis assays, we determined the impact of suppressing DDX11 expression on melanoma cells representing advanced melanoma.

Result

The findings of the study presented herein document that DDX11 is upregulated with progression from noninvasive to invasive melanoma, and that it is expressed at high levels in advanced melanoma. Furthermore, and equally important, we demonstrate that blocking the expression of DDX11 leads not only to inhibition of melanoma cell proliferation and severe defects in chromosome segregation, but also drives melanoma cells rapidly into massive apoptosis.

Conclusion

To date, little is known as to whether helicases play a role in melanoma development and specifically, in the progression from early to advanced melanoma. In this report, we show that the helicase DDX11 is expressed at high levels in primary and metastatic melanoma, and that interfering with its expression leads to severe chromosome segregation defects, telomere shortening, and massive melanoma cell apoptosis. These findings suggest that DDX11 could be an important candidate for molecular targeted therapy for advanced melanoma.
Interference mitigation in an LTE femtocell base station using uplink antenna selection
Authors: Soler-Garrido Josep , Sandell Magnus , Chin Woon Hau
Published: November 2012

Antenna selection represents an attractive technique that allows to improve performance of wireless systems due to its simplicity and ease of implementation. Antenna selection is able to provide diversity through the use of multiple antennas while keeping low cost and energy consumption by selecting only a subset of the available elements at any given time, hence requiring a smaller number of RF transmitter and receiver chains. This makes it especially suitable for femtocell or small-cell base stations, typically employed by cellular operators to provide indoor radio coverage in customer premises. This article presents an analysis and validation of antenna selection using a LTE-FDD femtocell prototype. The effects on antenna selection performance of different antenna training schedules and channel variation rates are investigated under realistic propagation conditions. It is observed that antenna selection is able to provide substantial gains in terms of channel quality and reliability in interference-limited scenarios, attesting its suitability for large-scale femtocell deployments.