bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐resolution computational imaging of leaf hair patterning using polarized light microscopy
Authors: Pomeranz Marcelo , Campbell Jeffrey , Siegal‐Gaskins Dan , Engelmeier Jacob , Wilson Tyler , Fernandez Virginia , Brkljacic Jelena , Grotewold Erich
Published: November 2012

The leaf hairs (trichomes) on the aerial surface of many plant species play important roles in phytochemical production and herbivore protection, and have significant applications in the chemical and agricultural industries. Trichome formation in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana also presents a tractable experimental system to study cell differentiation and pattern formation in plants and animals. Studies of this developmental process suggest that trichome positioning may be the result of a self‐forming pattern, emerging from a lateral inhibition mechanism determined by a network of regulatory factors. Critical to the continued success of these studies is the ability to quantitatively characterize trichome pattern phenotypes in response to mutations in the genes that regulate this process. Advanced protocols for the observation of changes in trichome patterns can be expensive and/or time consuming, and lack user‐friendly analysis tools. In order to address some of these challenges, we describe here a strategy based on polarized light microscopy for the quick and accurate measurement of trichome positions, and provide an online tool designed for the quantitative analyses of trichome number, density and patterning.
Designing of an Assembly Line based on Reliability Approach
Authors: KHAN Debdip , ROY Dilip
Published: November 2012

The problem of Assembly Line Balancing is to assign a set of tasks to an ordered sequence of workstations without violating the precedence constraints. The efficiency of the line will increase when tasks are more evenly distributed. In general, the efficiency measure(s) should be optimized subject to cycle time restriction and precedence constraints. Under the deterministic setup, efficiency of the system can be measured in various ways. Research works, reported so far, mainly deal with balancing loss as an inverse measure of efficiency. As a result, in earlier works balancing loss has been minimized subject to precedence constraints. In case the work elements are best described in terms of stochastic time, the entire problem has to be addressed with a different measure of efficiency. Expected variance of the idle times of workstations can be viewed as an inverse measure of stability of the system. A more appropriate and direct measure could be the reliability of the system such that each workstation adheres to assigned cycle time with high chance. The present work defines the reliability of the assembly line in terms of cycle time and distribution of the tasks times and offers an optimization formulation for the problem under precedence constraints. For demonstration purpose, one well known example in the literature has been addressed under stochastic setup.
A Comparative Study of Neural Networks and Fuzzy Systems in Modeling of a Nonlinear Dynamic System
Authors: DEMIRTAS Metin , ALCI Musa
Published: November 2012

The aim of this paper is to compare the neural network and fuzzy modeling approaches on a nonlinear system. We have taken Permanent Magnet Brushless Direct Current (PMBDC) motor data and have generated models using both approaches. The predictive performance of both methods was compared on the data set for model configurations.The paper describes the results of these tests and discusses the effects of changing model parameters on predictive and practical performance. Modeling sensitivity was used to compare for two methods.
A Local Material Basis Solution Approach to Reconstructing the Three-Dimensional Displacement of Rod-Like Structures From Strain Measurements
Authors: Todd Michael D. , Stull Christopher J. , Dickerson Michael
Published: November 2012

This paper presents a new approach for determining three-dimensional global displacement (for arbitrarily sized deformation) of thin rod or tetherlike structures from a limited set of scalar strain measurements. The approach is rooted in Cosserat rod theory with a material-adapted reference frame and a localized linearization approach that facilitates an exact local basis function set for the displacement along with the material frame. The solution set is shown to be robust to potential singularities from vanishing bending and twisting angle derivatives and from vanishing measured strain. Validation of the approach is performed through a comparison with both finite element simulations and an experiment, with average root mean square reconstruction error of 0.01%–1% of the total length, for reasonable sensor counts. An analysis of error due to extraneous noise sources and boundary condition uncertainty shows how the error scales with those effects. The algorithm involves relatively simple operations, the most complex of which is square matrix inversion, lending itself to potential low-power embeddable solutions for applications requiring shape reconstruction.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Recombinant Marek's Disease Virus Field Strain with One Reticuloendotheliosis Virus Long Terminal Repeat Insert
Authors: Su Shuai , Cui Ning , Cui Zhizhong , Zhao Peng , Li Yanpeng , Ding Jiabo , Dong Xuan
Published: November 2012

Marek's disease virus (MDV) Chinese strain GX0101, isolated in 2001 from a vaccinated flock of layer chickens with severe tumors, was the first reported recombinant MDV field strain with one reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) long terminal repeat (LTR) insert. GX0101 belongs to very virulent MDV (vvMDV) but has higher horizontal transmission ability than the vvMDV strain Md5. The complete genome sequence of GX0101 is 178,101 nucleotides (nt) and contains only one REV-LTR insert at a site 267 nt upstream of the sorf2 gene. Moreover, GX0101 has 5 repeats of a 217-nt fragment in its terminal repeat short (TRS) region and 3 repeats in internal repeat short (IRS) region, compared to the other 10 strains with only 1 or 2 repeats in both TRS and IRS.
Complete Genome Sequence of Bp7, an Escherichia coli Bacteriophage with a Wide Host Range
Authors: Zhang Can , Liu Wenhua , Ren Huiying
Published: November 2012

Chicken colibacillosis is caused by some pathogenic
Escherichia coli
strains. Thirty-five pathogenic antibiotic-resistant
E. coli
strains were used in the host range detection of bacteriophage Bp7. The phage showed a wide range of
E. coli
hosts (46%). The complete genome of bacteriophage Bp7 was sequenced, assembled, and analyzed. The results revealed a linear double-stranded DNA sequence of 168,066 bp harboring 791 open reading frames. The major findings from its annotation are described.
Complete Genome Sequence Analysis of Human Echovirus Type 30 Isolated in China
Authors: Han Jian-Feng , Xu Li-Juan , Cao Rui-Yuan , Zhao Hui , Jiang Tao , Deng Yong-Qiang , Li Yue-Xiang , Zhu Shun-Ya , Yu Man , Qin E-De , Qin Cheng-Feng
Published: November 2012

We report here the complete genome sequence of a human echovirus type 30 strain ECV30/GX10/05 isolated in Guangxi, China, in 2010. Phylogenetic analysis showed that ECV30/GX10/05 was closely related to a Korean strain isolated in 2008. The sequence information will help in an understanding of the molecular epidemiology and evolution of echovirus.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Novel Lytic Avian Pathogenic Coliphage NJ01
Authors: Li Yanzhe , Chen Mianmian , Tang Fang , Yao Huochun , Lu Chengping , Zhang Wei
Published: November 2012

Bacteriophages of the C3 morphotype, characterized by very long heads that exceed their width several times, are extremely rare among the
Podoviridae
family members and constitute only 0.5% of over 5,500 phages that have been examined by the electron microscope (H. W. Ackermann, Arch. Virol. 152:227-243, 2007; H. W. Ackermann, Arch. Virol. 146:843-857, 2001). To date, among those phages proven to be C3, only coliphage phiEco32,
Lactococcus
phage KSY1,
Vibrio
phage 71A-6, and
Salmonella enterica
phage 7-11, but no avian pathogenic
Escherichia coli
(APEC) bacteriophages, have been completely sequenced (A. Chopin, H. Deveau, S. D. Ehrlich, S. Moineau, and M. C. Chopin, Virology 365:1-9, 2007; S. A. Khan, et al., Mol. Cell Probes 15:61-69, 2001; A. M. Kropinski, E. J. Lingohr, H. W. Ackermann, Arch. Virol. 156:149-151, 2011; D. Savalia, et al., J. Mol. Biol. 377:774-789, 2008) and are available in public databases. We isolated a bacteriophage from a scale duck market in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, named NJ01, that infects APEC. Sequence and morphological analyses revealed that phage NJ01 is a C3-like bacteriophage and belongs to the
Podoviridae
family. Here, we announce the complete genome sequence of phage NJ01 and submit the results of our analysis.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Bacteriophage YMC01/01/P52 PAE BP, Which Causes Lysis of Verona Integron-Encoded Metallo-β-Lactamase-Producing, Carbapenem-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Jeon Jongsoo , Kim Jae-won , Yong Dongeun , Lee Kyungwon , Chong Yunsop
Published: November 2012

Multidrug-resistant
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
commonly causes serious nosocomial infections. In this study, a novel lytic bacteriophage belonging to a member of the family
Podoviridae
, YMC01/01/P52 PAE BP, which infects carbapenem-resistant
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, was isolated and characterized. YMC01/01/P52 PAE BP genome was analyzed by whole-genome sequencing and putative function identification. The bacteriophage genome consists of a double-stranded linear DNA genome of 49,381 bp with a GC content of 62.16%.
TURP syndrome and severe hyponatremia under general anaesthesia
Authors: Demirel Ismail , Ozer Ayse B , Bayar Mustafa K , Erhan Omer L
Published: November 2012

Transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) syndrome is a complication characterised by symptoms changing from an asymptomatic hyponatremic state to convulsions, coma and death due to absorption of irrigation fluid during TURP. The syndrome appears to be related to the amount of fluid that enters the circulation via the blood vessels in the resection area. The first step in the course of action for therapy is to control bleeding and suspend the operation. In the case presented, we aimed to emphasise the importance of an early diagnosis and treatment of TURP syndrome in a patient that developed hyponatremia (90 mmol/l) while under general anaesthesia during a TURP procedure. In addition, multiple cystoscopic applications in the same session may facilitate development of the TURP syndrome.
Making delegation work
Authors: Aylott Anne‐Marie Svendsen
Published: November 2012

Knowing how to delegate tasks within a team can be a useful and powerful tool when running a veterinary practice. It can offer benefits to you, your colleagues and the practice at large, and yet it is a skill that many managers shy away from. Anne‐Marie Svendsen Aylot explains how to delegate tasks confidently, as well as discussing some of the pitfalls to avoid.
Urogenital disease in rabbits
Authors: Richardson Virginia
Published: November 2012

RABBITS are now well established as the third most popular pet in the country, with many being kept indoors by vigilant owners who spend more time interacting with and observing their pets. This means that clinical signs of urogenital tract disease such as haematuria and dysuria are being detected sooner and more frequently, allowing many conditions to be diagnosed earlier. Many more rabbits also have the benefit of being neutered, reducing the incidence of genital tract conditions. When investigating a urogenital disease, a thorough history, including diet, husbandry and neutering status must be taken before the clinical examination.
Managing the dyspnoeic emergency Patient
Authors: Firth Ava , Boag Amanda
Published: November 2012

Correct and rapid management of respiratory emergencies is demanded of almost every veterinary practitioner. A structured, logical approach to

the dyspnoeic patient will maximise the chance of a successful outcome. This article looks at initial treatment of respiratory emergencies as well as respiratory diseases of the lower and upper airway and thoracic cage.
Precise QCD predictions on top quark pair production mediated by massive color-octet vector boson at hadron colliders
Authors: Zhu Hua Xing , Li Chong Sheng , Shao Ding Yu , Wang Jian , Yuan C.-P.
Published: November 2012

We present a theoretical framework for systematically calculating next-to-leading order (NLO) QCD effects to various experimental observables in models with massive COVB in a model independent way at hadron colliders. Specifically, we show the numerical results for the NLO QCD corrections to total cross sections, invariant mass distribution and AFB of top quark pairs production mediated by a massive COVB in both the fixed scale (top quark mass) scheme and the dynamical scale (top pair invariant mass) scheme. Our results show that the NLO QCD calculations in the dynamical scale scheme is more reasonable than the fixed scheme and the naive estimate of the NLO effects by simple rescaling of the LO results with the SM NLO K-factor is not appropriate.
SOFT WALL MODEL WITH INVERSE EXPONENTIAL PROFILE AS A MODEL FOR THE AXIAL AND PSEUDOSCALAR MESONS
Authors: AFONIN S. S.
Published: November 2012

According to the conjecture of the gauge/gravity duality, a strongly coupled 4D field theory may be described by a dual 5D theory which is a free field theory in the first approximation. The usual description of the axial-vector sector in the bottom–up AdS/QCD models includes, however, the quartic interaction with a bulk scalar field. A question arises, whether it is possible to describe some aspects of the chiral symmetry breaking (CSB) in a way more consistent with the original proposal, i.e. within a free 5D theory? We suggest that a natural candidate for this purpose is the soft wall (SW) model with inverse exponential profile.
Secondary Glioblastoma Multiforme in a Child with Disseminated Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma
Authors: Amene C. S. , Yeh-Nayre L. A. , Crawford J. R.
Published: November 2012

Secondary glioblastoma multiforme (sGBM) can occur after a long latency period following radiation treatment of various diseases including brain tumors, leukemia, and more benign disorders like tinea capitis. Outcomes of radiation-induced sGBM remain poor in both children and adults. We report a case of a 16-year-old girl with a history of disseminated juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma treated with chemotherapy and craniospinal radiation 9 years prior who developed sGBM in the absence of a tumor predisposition syndrome. She presented with a several-week history of headaches and no acute findings on computed tomography compared to baseline neuroimaging 3 months prior. Repeat computed tomography performed just 3 weeks later for worsening headaches revealed a new large posterior fossa tumor where pathology confirmed the diagnosis of sGBM. In spite of maximal surgical resection, reirradiation, and adjuvant chemotherapy, she died 1 year postdiagnosis. Our case highlights the potential late effects of high-dose cranial radiation, how symptomatology may precede neuroimaging findings, and the rapid formation of sGBM that mirrors that ofde novoGlioblastoma Multiforme.
Strangulated Femoral Hernia Turned to Be Peritoneal Cyst
Authors: Dellaportas Dionysios , Polymeneas George , Dastamani Christina , Kairi-Vasilatou Evi , Papaconstantinou Ioannis
Published: November 2012

Introduction. A peritoneal inclusion cyst is a very rare mesenteric cyst of mesothelial origin usually asymptomatic. A rare case of an 82-year-old white Caucasian female with a femoral hernia containing a large peritoneal inclusion cyst, mimicking strangulated hernia, is presented herein.Case Presentation. The patient was admitted to our hospital suffering from a palpable groin mass on the right, which became painful and caused great discomfort for the last hours. Physical examination revealed a tender and tense, irreducible groin mass. An inguinal operative approach was selected and the mass was found protruding through the femoral ring. After careful dissection it turned out to be a large unilocular cyst, containing serous fluid, probably originating from the peritoneum. McVay procedure was used to reapproximate the femoral ring. Histologic examination showed a peritoneal inclusion cyst.Discussion. Peritoneal inclusion cysts are usually asymptomatic but occasionally present with various, nonspecific symptoms according to their size. Our case highlights that high index of clinical suspicion and careful exploration during repair of a hernia is mandatory in order to reach the correct diagnosis about hernia’s contents.
Three-Dimensional Molecular Modeling of a Diverse Range of SC Clan Serine Proteases
Authors: Laskar Aparna , Chatterjee Aniruddha , Chatterjee Somnath , Rodger Euan J.
Published: November 2012

Serine proteases are involved in a variety of biological processes and are classified into clans sharing structural homology. Although various three-dimensional structures of SC clan proteases have been experimentally determined, they are mostly bacterial and animal proteases, with some from archaea, plants, and fungi, and as yet no structures have been determined for protozoa. To bridge this gap, we have used molecular modeling techniques to investigate the structural properties of different SC clan serine proteases from a diverse range of taxa. Either SWISS-MODEL was used for homology-based structure prediction or the LOOPP server was used for threading-based structure prediction. The predicted models were refined using Insight II and SCRWL and validated against experimental structures. Investigation of secondary structures and electrostatic surface potential was performed using MOLMOL. The structural geometry of the catalytic core shows clear deviations between taxa, but the relative positions of the catalytic triad residues were conserved. Evolutionary divergence was also exhibited by large variation in secondary structure features outside the core, differences in overall amino acid distribution, and unique surface electrostatic potential patterns between species. Encompassing a wide range of taxa, our structural analysis provides an evolutionary perspective on SC clan serine proteases.
Interactive Combustion in a Linear Array of 2D Laminar Isolated and Triple Burner Jets
Authors: Tillman S. T. , Kuchibhatla S. , Annamalai K. , Caton J. A. , Ranjan D.
Published: November 2012

Many practical combustion systems such as residential gas burners contain dense groupings or clusters of jet flames with sufficiently small spacing between them, which causes flame interaction. The interaction effect, due in part to Oxygen deficiency in the interstitial space between the flames, causes the spreading of flames, which may merge together to form larger group flames. This interactive effect is studied analytically by revisiting the laminar isolated flame theory for 2D jets, for which similarity solutions are readily available in compressible form, and symmetrical interaction zones can be observed. Flame characteristics were studied by obtaining analytical expressions for flame specific parameters such as height and width, lift-off height and blow-off velocity, air entrainment and mixing layer growth. The theory for multiple interacting jets describes an approximate criterion for interburner spacing at which flame interaction and group flame formation are first observed. The analytical framework presented in this paper presented in this paper produced results which were compared with experimental measurements. The experimental apparatus allowed the interburner spacing to be varied from 7.87 mm to 50.8 mm, and measurements of flame height, width, lift-off height and group-flame formation under interactive modes. Images of the evolving flow field were taken and Schlieren images of the multiple 2D jets were also recorded using a digital camera.
The Correlation between Microsatellite Instability and the Features of Sporadic Colorectal Cancer in the North Part of Iran
Authors: Faghani Masoumeh , Fakhrieh Asl Saba , Mansour-Ghanaei Fariborz , Aminian Keyvan , Tarang Alireza , Seighalani Ramin , Javadi Azadeh
Published: November 2012

Background. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between MSI and sporadic colorectal cancer in Guilan province, North part of Iran.Materials and Methods. A total of 96 patients who underwent resection for sporadic colorectal cancer in Guilan province were studied. No patients had positive family history of cancers. The frequencies of MSI were analyzed by testing the BAT-26 and BAT-25 markers.Results. MSI analysis revealed that 22.9% of the tumors (22 patients) were microsatellite instability positive and 77.1% (74 patients) were microsatellite instability negative. The highest rate of MSI (40.9%) was found in the rectal region. MSI-H status was seen more frequently in distal tumors (P=0.04, odds ratio = 3.13, 0.96–10.14).Conclusions. Distal tumor location and MSI may associate with special clinicopathological features. It seems that there may be correlation with underlying genetic and immunologic mechanisms.
Porosity and Inclusion Detection in CFRP by Infrared Thermography
Authors: Toscano C. , Meola C. , Iorio M. C. , Carlomagno G. M.
Published: November 2012

The ever wide use of composite materials in the aeronautical industry has evidenced the need for development of ever more effective nondestructive evaluation methodologies in order to reduce rejected parts and to optimize production costs. Infrared thermography has been recently enclosed amongst the standardized non destructive testing techniques, but its usefulness needs still complete assessment since it can be employed in several different arrangements and for many purposes. In this work, the possibility to detect slag inclusions and porosity is analyzed with both lock-in themography and pulse thermography in the transmission mode. To this end, carbon-fiber-peinforced polymers different specimens are specifically fabricated of several different stacking sequences and with embedded slag inclusions and porosity percentages. As main results, both of the techniques are found definitely able to reveal the presence of the defects above mentioned. Moreover, these techniques could be considered complementary in order to better characterize the nature of the detected defects.
A Comparative Energetic Analysis of Active and Passive Emission Control Systems Adopting Standard Emission Test Cycles
Authors: Algieri Angelo , Amelio Mario , Morrone Pietropaolo
Published: November 2012

The present work aims at analysing and comparing the thermal performances of active and passive aftertreatment systems. A one-dimensional transient model has been developed in order to evaluate the heat exchange between the solid and the exhaust gas and to estimate the energy effectiveness of the apparatus. Furthermore, the effect of the engine operating conditions on the performances of emission control systems has been investigated considering standard emission test cycles. The analysis has demonstrated that the active flow control presents the higher thermal inertia and it appears more suitable to maintain the converter initial temperature level for a longer time after variations in engine load. Conversely, the traditional passive flow control is preferable when rapid “cooling” or “heating” of the solid phase is requested. Moreover, the investigation has highlighted the significant influence of the cycle time and converter length on the energetic performances of the aftertreatment apparatus.
Activity-Dependent Callosal Axon Projections in Neonatal Mouse Cerebral Cortex
Authors: Tagawa Yoshiaki , Hirano Tomoo
Published: November 2012

Callosal axon projections are among the major long-range axonal projections in the mammalian brain. They are formed during the prenatal and early postnatal periods in the mouse, and their development relies on both activity-independent and -dependent mechanisms. In this paper, we review recent findings about the roles of neuronal activity in callosal axon projections. In addition to the well-documented role of sensory-driven neuronal activity, recent studies using in utero electroporation demonstrated an essential role of spontaneous neuronal activity generated in neonatal cortical circuits. Both presynaptic and postsynaptic neuronal activities are critically involved in the axon development. Studies have begun to reveal intracellular signaling pathway which works downstream of neuronal activity. We also review several distinct patterns of neuronal activity observed in the developing cerebral cortex, which might play roles in activity-dependent circuit construction. Such neuronal activity during the neonatal period can be disrupted by genetic factors, such as mutations in ion channels. It has been speculated that abnormal activity caused by such factors may affect activity-dependent circuit construction, leading to some developmental disorders. We discuss a possibility that genetic mutation in ion channels may impair callosal axon projections through an activity-dependent mechanism.
Contribution of Series Resistance in Modelling of High-Temperature Type II Superlattice p-i-n Photodiodes
Authors: Wróbel Jarosław , Martyniuk Piotr , Rogalski Antoni
Published: November 2012

We analyze some of the consequences of omitting series resistance in InAs/GaSb p-i-n T2SL photodiode dark current modelling, using simplified p-n junction model. Our considerations are limited to generation-recombination and diffusion-effective carrier lifetimes to show the possible scale of over- or underestimating photodiodes parameters in high-temperature region. As is shown, incorrect series resistance value might cause discrepancies in τgr and τdiff's estimations over one order of magnitude.
Effects of Extract fromMangifera indicaLeaf on Monosodium Urate Crystal-Induced Gouty Arthritis in Rats
Authors: Jiang Yan , You Xiao-Ying , Fu Kong-Long , Yin Wan-Le
Published: November 2012

The leaves ofMangifera indicaL. (Anacardiaceae) is used as a medicinal material in traditional herb medicine for a long time in India, China, and other Eastern Asian countries. Our present study investigated the therapeutic effects of the ethanol extract fromMangifera indica(EMI) in rat with monosodium urate (MSU) crystals-induced gouty arthritis. Effects of EMI (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) administrated for 9 days on the ankle swelling, synovial tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) levels were assessed in MSU crystal rat. Data from our study showed that rat with gouty arthritis induced by MSU crystal demonstrated an elevation in ankle swelling, synovial TNF-α, IL-1βmRNA, and protein levels. Oral administration of 100 and 200 mg/kg EMI for 9 days reversed the abnormalities in ankle swelling, synovial TNF-α, IL-1βmRNA, and protein levels. The results indicated that the beneficial antigouty arthritis effect of EMI may be mediated, at least in part, by inhibiting TNF-αand IL-1βexpression in the synovial tissues. Our study suggests thatMangifera indicaand its extract may have a considerable potential for development as an anti-gouty arthritis agent for clinical application.
Ultrasonic‐Assisted Extraction of Procyanidins Using Ionic Liquid Solution from Larix gmelinii Bark
Authors: Sun Xiaowei , Jin Zhimin , Yang Lei , Hao Jingwei , Zu Yuangang , Wang Wenjie , Liu Wenbin
Published: November 2012

An ionic liquid‐based ultrasonic‐assisted extraction method has been developed for the effective extraction of procyanidins from Larix gmelinii bark. So as to evaluate the performance of ionic liquids in ultrasonic‐assisted extraction process, the effects caused by changes in the anion and the alkyl chain length of the cation on the extraction efficiency were investigated in this paper. The results indicated that the characteristics of anions had remarkable effects on the extraction efficiency of procyanidins, and 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide ([Bmim]Br) aqueous solution was the best among the investigated ionic liquids. The optimum conditions for the extraction were as follows: [Bmim]Br concentration 1.25 M, soak time 3 h, solid‐liquid ratio 1 : 10, ultrasonic power 150 W, and ultrasonic time 30 min. This work not only introduces a simple, green, and highly efficient sample preparation method for extraction of procyanidins from L. gmelinii bark, but also reveals the tremendous application potential of ionic liquids.
Role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Angiopoietin 1 in Renal Injury in Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
Authors: Ohara Shinichiro , Kawasaki Yukihiko , Abe Yusaku , Watanabe Masahiro , Ono Atsushi , Suyama Kazuhide , Hashimoto Koichi , Honda Takashi , Suzuki Junzo , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: November 2012

Background/Aims: The recovery process from renal injury in hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) remains obscure. In order to clarify the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiopoietin 1 (Ang-1) in the renal recovery from HUS, we produced a model of mild HUS and examined the renal recovery process. Methods: We investigated three groups of mice. Group 1 consisted of mice that received an injection of Shiga toxin 2 (Stx2) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS); group 2 consisted of mice that received an injection of low dose of Stx2 and LPS, and group 3 consisted of control mice. Results: Serum Cr levels in group 1 were greater than those in group 2, and all mice in group 1 died, whereas all mice in group 2 remained alive. Endothelial injury at 24 h in group 1 was higher than in group 2. Electron-microscopic findings demonstrated that the endothelial cells formed immature capillary-like lumina from 7 to 28 days with increases in the expression of CD31-positive cells. Glomerular VEGF expression decreased at 72 h in group 1, but gradually increased in group 2. Glomerular Ang-1 expression peaked from 72 h to 28 days. Ang-1 expression was frequently found in the endothelial cell region of vesicle walls simultaneous with increased CD31-positive staining. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that VEGF and Ang-1 play important roles in the recovery process, particularly in the regeneration of endothelial injury.
Semantic and Perceptual Processing of Number Symbols: Evidence from a Cross-linguistic fMRI Adaptation Study
Authors: Holloway Ian D. , Battista Christian , Vogel Stephan E. , Ansari Daniel
Published: November 2012

The ability to process the numerical magnitude of sets of items has been characterized in many animal species. Neuroimaging data have associated this ability to represent nonsymbolic numerical magnitudes (e.g., arrays of dots) with activity in the bilateral parietal lobes. Yet the quantitative abilities of humans are not limited to processing the numerical magnitude of nonsymbolic sets. Humans have used this quantitative sense as the foundation for symbolic systems for the representation of numerical magnitude. Although numerical symbol use is widespread in human cultures, the brain regions involved in processing of numerical symbols are just beginning to be understood. Here, we investigated the brain regions underlying the semantic and perceptual processing of numerical symbols. Specifically, we used an fMRI adaptation paradigm to examine the neural response to Hindu-Arabic numerals and Chinese numerical ideographs in a group of Chinese readers who could read both symbol types and a control group who could read only the numerals. Across groups, the Hindu-Arabic numerals exhibited ratio-dependent modulation in the left IPS. In contrast, numerical ideographs were associated with activation in the right IPS, exclusively in the Chinese readers. Furthermore, processing of the visual similarity of both digits and ideographs was associated with activation of the left fusiform gyrus. Using culture as an independent variable, we provide clear evidence for differences in the brain regions associated with the semantic and perceptual processing of numerical symbols. Additionally, we reveal a striking difference in the laterality of parietal activation between the semantic processing of the two symbols types.
Interacting Cortical and Basal Ganglia Networks Underlying Finding and Tapping to the Musical Beat
Authors: Kung Shu-Jen , Chen Joyce L. , Zatorre Robert J. , Penhune Virginia B.
Published: November 2012

Humans are able to find and tap to the beat of musical rhythms varying in complexity from children's songs to modern jazz. Musical beat has no one-to-one relationship with auditory features—it is an abstract perceptual representation that emerges from the interaction between sensory cues and higher-level cognitive organization. Previous investigations have examined the neural basis of beat processing but have not tested the core phenomenon of finding and tapping to the musical beat. To test this, we used fMRI and had musicians find and tap to the beat of rhythms that varied from metrically simple to metrically complex—thus from a strong to a weak beat. Unlike most previous studies, we measured beat tapping performance during scanning and controlled for possible effects of scanner noise on beat perception. Results showed that beat finding and tapping recruited largely overlapping brain regions, including the superior temporal gyrus (STG), premotor cortex, and ventrolateral PFC (VLPFC). Beat tapping activity in STG and VLPFC was correlated with both perception and performance, suggesting that they are important for retrieving, selecting, and maintaining the musical beat. In contrast BG activity was similar in all conditions and was not correlated with either perception or production, suggesting that it may be involved in detecting auditory temporal regularity or in associating auditory stimuli with a motor response. Importantly, functional connectivity analyses showed that these systems interact, indicating that more basic sensorimotor mechanisms instantiated in the BG work in tandem with higher-order cognitive mechanisms in PFC.
Market-Based Responses to Climate Change: CO2 Market Design versus Operation
Authors: Veal Gareth , Mouzas Stefanos
Published: November 2012

This study highlights significant discrepancies between CO2 market design and the actual operation of CO2 markets. Our findings are based upon an empirical investigation undertaken in the context of the European Emissions Trading Scheme between January 2009 and May 2010. CO2 markets are examined from a practice-based perspective in which actors are engaged in exchange, representational and normalizing practices. Discrepancies between the actual and intended CO2 market practices are explained using the concepts of framing, overflowing and regulatory capture. We argue that the design of the European Emissions Trading Scheme has been influenced in such a way that it does not actually challenge market participants to reduce their CO2 emissions. In this way, the study challenges the near universal reliance upon CO2 markets as the primary policy mechanism for mitigating climate change.
Intrinsic Goodness and Contingency, Resemblance and Particularity: Two Criticisms of Robert Adams’s Finite and Infinite Goods
Authors: Decosimo David
Published: November 2012

Robert Adams’s Finite and Infinite Goods is one of the most important and innovative contributions to Christian ethics in recent memory. This article identifies two major flaws at the heart of Adams’s theory: his notion of intrinsic value and his claim that ‘excellence’ or finite goodness is constituted by resemblance to God. I first elucidate Adams’s complex, frequently misunderstood claims concerning intrinsic value and Godlikeness. I then contend that Adams’s notion of intrinsic value cannot explain what it could mean for countless finite goods to be intrinsically valuable. Next, I articulate a criticism of his Godlikeness thesis altogether unlike those he has previously addressed: I show that, on Adams’s own account of Godlikeness, a diverse myriad of excellences could not possibly count as resembling God. His theory thus fails to account for a whole world of finite goods. I defend my two criticisms against objections and briefly sketch a more Aristotelian and Christian way forward.
‘De la non-existence de la monomanie’, by Jean-Pierre Falret (1854)
Authors: Lepoutre Thomas , Dening Dr Tom
Published: November 2012

The following text is the conclusion of a two-part translation of Falret’s 1854 essay arguing against the concept of monomania. In order to shine new light on the conceptual understanding of madness, the text emphasizes the importance of thorough clinical observations and the perspective of the whole patient, rejecting the disproportionate attention given to isolated symptoms, and in this respect his work represents a turning point away from the more traditional alienism.
A Meta-Analysis of Cohesion and Performance
Authors: Gully Stanley M. , Devine Dennis J. , Whitney David J.
Published: November 2012

This study extends previous work reviewing the cohesion-performance relationship by using meta-analytic techniques to assess the effects of level of analysis and task interdependence on the cohesion-performance relationship. A totel of 51 effect sizes from 46 empirical studies were obtained for the meta-analytic integration. Results suggest that level of analysis and task interdependence moderate the cohesion-performance relationship. Implications of the findings for future research on group cohesion and performance are discussed.
Desired Mental Health Resources for Urban, Ethnically Diverse, Impoverished Women Struggling With Anxiety and Depression
Authors: Doornbos Mary Molewyk , Zandee Gail Landheer , DeGroot Joleen , Warpinski Mary
Published: November 2012

Depression and anxiety are mental health issues that disproportionately affect women—particularly when access to culturally sensitive care is limited. The purpose of this study was to identify mental health concerns in three urban, ethnically diverse, underserved, and impoverished neighborhoods using the ideological perspective of community-based participatory research. In the context of long-term partnerships between a department of nursing and these neighborhoods, we recruited 61 women aged 18 to 69 years and collected data via homogeneous focus groups comprised of Black, Hispanic, and White women, respectively. We conducted five of the focus groups in English and one in Spanish. The women perceived anxiety and depression as significant concerns for themselves, their families, and their communities. They used unique community resources to manage mental health issues and desired new resources, including support groups and education.
The effects of acute hypoglycaemia on cognitive function in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Inkster Berit , Frier Brian M
Published: November 2012

Throughout life with type 1 diabetes mellitus people with the condition are exposed to multiple episodes of hypoglycaemia associated with insulin therapy. Hypoglycaemia affects several domains of cognitive function. Studies in non-diabetic adults and in people with type 1 diabetes have shown that almost all domains of cognitive function are impaired to some degree during acute hypoglycaemia, with complex tasks being more greatly affected.

The specific cognitive functions of attention and memory are both profoundly impaired during hypoglycaemia. These cognitive processes are fundamental to the performance of many day to day tasks. Their impairment disrupts everyday life and raises safety concerns for the pursuit of activities such as driving.

Mood and emotion are also negatively affected by hypoglycaemia, resulting in tense tiredness, while motivation is reduced, and anger may be generated in some individuals. Hypoglycaemia can cause embarrassing social situations, and may lead to chronic anxiety and depression in people with type 1 diabetes.

At present few therapeutic measures can modify or ameliorate the effects of hypoglycaemia on cognitive function, so instigation of measures to prevent exposure to hypoglycaemia is of major clinical importance, while preserving good glycaemic control.
Multiple graph regularized protein domain ranking
Authors: Wang Jim Jing-Yan , Bensmail Halima , Gao Xin
Published: November 2012

Background

Protein domain ranking is a fundamental task in structural biology. Most protein domain ranking methods rely on the pairwise comparison of protein domains while neglecting the global manifold structure of the protein domain database. Recently, graph regularized ranking that exploits the global structure of the graph defined by the pairwise similarities has been proposed. However, the existing graph regularized ranking methods are very sensitive to the choice of the graph model and parameters, and this remains a difficult problem for most of the protein domain ranking methods.

Results

To tackle this problem, we have developed the Multiple Graph regularized Ranking algorithm, MultiG-Rank. Instead of using a single graph to regularize the ranking scores, MultiG-Rank approximates the intrinsic manifold of protein domain distribution by combining multiple initial graphs for the regularization. Graph weights are learned with ranking scores jointly and automatically, by alternately minimizing an objective function in an iterative algorithm. Experimental results on a subset of the ASTRAL SCOP protein domain database demonstrate that MultiG-Rank achieves a better ranking performance than single graph regularized ranking methods and pairwise similarity based ranking methods.

Conclusion

The problem of graph model and parameter selection in graph regularized protein domain ranking can be solved effectively by combining multiple graphs. This aspect of generalization introduces a new frontier in applying multiple graphs to solving protein domain ranking applications.
CYP1A2 rs762551 polymorphism contributes to cancer susceptibility: a meta-analysis from 19 case-control studies
Authors: Wang Hongge , Zhang Zhi , Han Sugui , Lu Yujuan , Feng Fumin , Yuan Juxiang
Published: November 2012

Background

Genetic polymorphism (rs762551A>C) in gene encoding cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) has been shown to influence the inducibility of CYP1A2 expression and thus might be associated with risk of several types of human cancer. However, the results of previous studies on the associations of this polymorphism with risk of cancer are not all consistent. To clarify the potential contribution of CYP1A2 rs762551 to cancer risk, we performed a meta-analysis of the published case–control studies.

Methods

We used PubMed, Embase, OVID, ScienceDirect, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure databases to identify the related publications for this meta-analysis. The pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using random effect model to evaluate the association of rs762551 with cancer risk. A χ
2-based Q-test was used to examine the heterogeneity assumption and the funnel plot and Egger’s test were used to examine the potential publication bias. The leave-one-out sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine whether our assumptions or decisions have a major effect on the results of the review.

Results

Our analysis of 19 eligible case–control studies showed a significant association between rs762551C variant with risk of cancer in the genetic model of CC versus AA (OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.02-1.64) and the dominant model (OR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.04-1.36). In subgroup analysis based on ethnicity, the rs762551CC genotype was associated with increased cancer risk (OR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.27-1.63 in co-dominate model and OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.02-1.34 in dominant model in Caucasians, but not in Asians and the mixed population.

Conclusion

These results suggested that CYP1A2 rs762551 polymorphism is likely to be associated with susceptibility to cancer in Caucasians.
Effect of gender on the association between weight status and health-related quality of life in adolescents
Authors: Bonsergent Emilie , Benie-Bi Joseph , Baumann Cédric , Agrinier Nelly , Tessier Sabrina , Thilly Nathalie , Briançon Serge
Published: November 2012

Background

Some studies have investigated the association between body mass index (BMI) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among adolescents, but their results have been discrepant and few paid attention to the role of gender. The present investigation aimed to assess the relationship between weight status and HRQoL in adolescents and to verify whether it was similar in boys and girls.

Methods

Five thousand two hundred and twenty six adolescents aged 14 to 18 years were included in the PRomotion de l’ALIMentation et de l’Activité Physique (PRALIMAP) trial, a 2x2x2 factorial cluster randomized trial performed in 24 high schools in France. Sociodemographic, anthropometric and HRQoL data were collected. BMI was categorized in four classes (thin, normal-weight, overweight, obese). Linear regression models were used to estimate the association between weight status and HRQoL, adjusting for confounders.

Results

The mean age of adolescents was 15.7±0.6 years and their mean BMI was 21.6 ±3.5 kg/m2; 55% were girls. Boys were more often overweight and obese than were girls (overweight: 15.6% vs 14.2%, obese: 4.8% vs 3.3%), and girls were more likely to be thin (5.5% vs 4.5%, p=0.0042). All HRQoL scores were higher for boys (p=<0.0001). Weight status was not associated with physical and social scores neither in boys nor in girls. Conversely, it was associated with mental score, but differently in girls than boys. As compared with normal-weight girls, thin girls had better mental HRQoL (β=+6.17, p=0.0010), and overweight and obese girls had lower mental HRQoL (β=−3.89 and β=−5.90, respectively, p<0.001). Mental HRQoL was lower for thin, overweight and obese boys than for normal-weight boys (β= −4.97, β= −1.68 and β= −3.17, respectively, p<0.0001).

Conclusions

Gender can modify the association between weight status and HRQoL in adolescents. Body image could be an important target of public health programs to improve subjective health during adolescence.
Flaxseed oil and α-lipoic acid combination reduces atherosclerosis risk factors in rats fed a high-fat diet
Authors: Xu Jiqu , Yang Wei , Deng Qianchun , Huang Qingde , Yang Jin’e , Huang Fenghong
Published: November 2012

Background

Atherosclerosis is a major manifestation of the pathophysiology underlying cardiovascular disease. Flaxseed oil (FO) and α-lipoic acid (LA) have been reported to exert potential benefit to cardiovascular system. This study tried to assess the effect of supplement of FO and LA combination on the atherosclerosis risk factors in rats fed a high-fat diet.

Methods

LA was dissolved in flaxseed oil to a final concentration of 8 g/kg (FO+LA) when used. The rodent diet contained 20% fat. One-fifth of the fat was soybean oil and the others were lard (HFD group), or 75% lard and 25% FO+LA (L-FO+LA group), or 50% lard and 50% FO+LA (M-FO+LA group), or FO+LA (H-FO+LA group). Animals were fed for 10 weeks and then killed for blood collection.

Results

Supplement of FO and LA combination significantly enhanced plasma antioxidant defense capacities, as evaluated by the marked increase in the activities of SOD, CAT and GPx as well as the level of GSH, and the significant reduction in lipid peroxidation. Simultaneous intake of FO and LA also reduced plasma TG, TC and LDL-C contents and elevated the ratio of HDL-C/LDL-C. Besides, in parallel with the increase of FO and LA combination, plasma IL-6 and CRP levels were remarkably reduced.

Conclusion

Supplement of FO and LA combination may contribute to prevent atherogenesis by improving plasma oxidative stress, lipid profile and inflammation.