bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reaction microstructures in corundum‐ and kyanite‐bearing mafic mylonites from the Takahama metamorphic rocks, western Kyushu, Southwest Japan
Authors: ARIMA KAZUHIRO , IKEDA TAKESHI , MIYAZAKI KAZUHIRO
Published: April 2011

High‐grade mylonites occur in the Takahama metamorphic rocks, a member of the high‐pressure low‐temperature type Nagasaki Metamorphic Rocks, western Kyushu, Japan. Mafic layers within the mylonites retain reaction microstructures consisting of margarite aggregates armoring both corundum and kyanite. The following retrograde reaction well accounts for the microstructures in the CaO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O system: 3Al2O3 + 2Al2SiO5 + 2Ca2Al3Si3O12(OH) + 3H2O = 2Ca2Al8Si4O20(OH)4 (corundum + kyanite + clinozoisite + fluid = margarite). Mass balance analyses and chemical potential modeling reveal that the chemical potential gradients present between kyanite and corundum have likely driven the transport of the CaO and SiO2 components. The mylonitization is considered to take place chronologically after peak metamorphism and before the above reaction, based on the following features: approximately constant thickness of the margarite aggregates, random orientation of margarite, and local modification of garnet composition at a boudin neck that formed during mylonitization. The estimated peak temperature of 640°C and the pressure–temperature conditions of the above reaction indicate that the mylonitization took place at temperature between 530 and 640°C at pressures higher than 1.2 GPa, approximately equivalent to the depth of the lower crust of island arcs.
EUS in exploring the etiology of mild acute biliary pancreatitis with a negative finding of biliary origin by conventional radiological methods
Authors: Zhan Xianbao , Guo Xiaorong , Chen Yan , Dong Yuanhang , Yu Qihong , Wang Kaixuan , Li Zhaoshen
Published: April 2011

Background and Aim:  Conventional radiological methods, including transcutaneous ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) are non‐invasive and recommended for the detection of etiologies of acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP). There are still, however, a number of patients whose etiologies cannot be found by these methods. The value of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for this population is still unknown. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of EUS in exploring the unknown etiology of mild ABP.

Methods:  The data from patients with mild ABP admitted to Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China, from June 2006 to December 2009 were retrospectively collected, and the results of the imaging methods in detecting biliary disorders were analyzed.

Results:  A total of 223 patients with mild ABP underwent both US and CT. Of these, 106 underwent additional MRCP. There were still 37 patients with unknown biliary etiologies, even after the use of the conventional methods mentioned earlier. EUS was conducted in 33 of these patients. Abnormalities associated with the etiology of mild ABP were found in 14 cases (42.4%) confirmed by subsequent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, with biliary stones in 11 cases, biliary sludge in two cases, and ampullary adenocarcinoma in one case.

Conclusion:  The results suggest that EUS is helpful in the identification of the etiology of mild biliary pancreatitis when conventional radiological imaging is negative or equivocal.
Pyloric gland metaplasia/differentiation in multiple organ systems in a patient with Peutz–Jegher's syndrome
Authors: Kato Noriko , Sugawara Masato , Maeda Kunihiko , Hosoya Noriyuki , Motoyama Teiichi
Published: April 2011

Peutz‐Jegher's syndrome (PJS) involves multiple organ systems and the development of hamartomatous, metaplastic, or neoplastic lesions of different cell lineages. Among them, glandular lesions are the most common, but their properties are obscure. We report here a 53‐year‐old woman with PJS who developed multiple hamartomatous polyps in the jejunum and mucinous glandular lesions in multiple organ systems: glandular metaplasia in the urinary bladder; lobular endocervical glandular hyperplasia in the uterine cervix; mucinous metaplasia in the right fallopian tube; mucinous adenoma in the left ovary. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses disclosed that all of the intestinal and extra‐intestinal lesions were associated with pyloric gland metaplasia/differentiation across the organ systems. In the general population, the organs described above rarely or infrequently show pyloric gland phenotype, to say nothing of trans‐organ involvement. It is strongly suggested that commitment to pyloric gland metaplasia/differentiation is closely associated with PJS.
Demography and dynamics of three wild horse populations in the Australian Alps
Authors: DAWSON M. J. , HONE J.
Published: April 2011

Wild horses (Equus caballus) are a non‐native species occupying over 2800 km2 of the nationally significant Australian Alps National Parks. We estimated key demographic parameters (fecundity, adult and juvenile survival and annual finite population growth rate) over 3 years and related these to horse body condition and available food for three populations under natural conditions, and found a trend consistent with food limitation. The populations were independent, with different site characteristics and occupied areas, identified by land managers, as areas of concern about possible conservation impacts. Annual fecundity and juvenile survival varied across sites averaging between 0.21 and 0.31 female young per adult female, and 0.83 and 0.90 per annum, respectively, and annual adult survival was consistent across sites averaging 0.91 per annum. One population was increasing (λ = 1.09 year−1; 95% CI 1.04–1.14) and two populations were stable (λ ∼ 1.0 year−1). Mean body condition of horses was positively correlated with mean pasture biomass rank. Across the three populations, fecundity, recruitment, body condition and annual finite population growth rate were lowest when mean pasture biomass rank was lowest and conversely highest when pasture rank was highest. We conclude that food limitation appears to be operating across these three sites. We used our results to assess the sensitivity of annual finite rate of increase (λ) to changes in key demographic parameters and found that λ was most sensitive to a change in adult survival, with the second most sensitive parameter being fecundity. Thus, if the aim of management is to reduce the size of the wild horse population then targeting adult survival is most important, followed by fecundity. Finally, we estimated the linear, negative, numerical response for wild horses between annual λ and horses per unit pasture biomass.
Spatial and genetic investigation of aggregation inIschnochiton(Polyplacophora; Neoloricata; Ischnochitonina; Ischnochitonidae; Ischnochitoninae) species with different larval development
Authors: PALMER AMY NICOLA SUSAN
Published: April 2011

Many species are aggregated at some spatial scale but for some species, due to habitat or behaviour, aggregation can be difficult to assess quantitatively. Here, aggregation of chiton species (Polyplacophora; Neoloricata; Ischnochitonina; Ischnochitonidae; Ischnochitoninae; Ischnochiton) living under boulders in intertidal boulder fields was investigated at several relatively small spatial scales. Closely related species were found to be aggregated at the level of individual boulders, but evidence for grouping at the larger scale of patches of boulders varied. When organisms are mobile, dispersal can have an important influence on spatial patterns. Some organisms, such as marine invertebrates, have a highly dispersive larval phase that can influence spatial patterns of adults, particularly where the adult is sessile or relatively sedentary. Aggregation was compared in two species to test whether different modes of larval development influence spatial pattern. There was some evidence that species with a planktonic larva were even more aggregated than expected, in contrast to predictions based on this mode of development. Both types of larval development (planktonic and non‐planktonic) produce larvae with short development times in these species, so one possible explanation for the grouping habit of these chitons is that they do not disperse, at all, from their natal boulder. The complexity of the boulder field habitat and the cryptic behaviour of these chitons may also contribute to a lack of dispersal. A simple application of a genetic method indicated, however, that philopatry at this scale is unlikely.
Testing the regeneration niche hypothesis with Gesneriaceae (tribe Sinningiae) in Brazil: Implications for the conservation of rare species
Authors: RANIERI BERNARDO DOURADO , PEZZINI FLÁVIA FONSECA , GARCIA QUEILA SOUZA , CHAUTEMS ALAIN , FRANÇA MARCEL GIOVANNI COSTA
Published: April 2011

The germination requirements of sexually reproducing plants are regulated by environmental factors such as temperature. Those factors acting at the germination phase are part of the regeneration niche, which is fundamental in the processes that contribute to habitat suitability and geographic distribution. We tested the hypothesis that rarity is associated with regeneration niche in three species of plants in the family Gesneriaceae (tribe Sinningieae), Sinningia rupicola (Mart.) Wiehler, Paliavana sericiflora Benth and Sinningia allagophylla (Mart.) Wiehler, which vary in their distribution and habitat specificity but share a small zone of sympatry in rocky fields south of Belo Horizonte in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The regeneration niche was tested using a seed germination experiment under controlled light conditions at seven fixed temperatures (10–40°C at 5°C intervals). Each of the three species germinated differently at the various temperatures. The species with the smallest geographic range, S. rupicola, also had the most restricted germination: germination peaked at 15°C when relatively few seeds germinated (45%), and even fewer germinated at other temperatures. The regeneration niche was wider in P. sericiflora and wider still in S. allagophylla, with germination greater than 90% between 15–25°C and greater than 80% between 15–30°C, respectively. Our germination results provide qualified support for the hypothesis of correlation of the regeneration niche with geographic distribution of related plant taxa, with important conservation implications for rare and endangered species.
Contrasting changes in vegetation structure and diversity with time since fire in two Australian Mediterranean‐climate plant communities
Authors: GOSPER CARL R. , YATES COLIN J. , PROBER SUZANNE M. , PARSONS BLAIR C.
Published: April 2011

Mallee‐heath and mallee communities occur in a mosaic across large areas of south‐western Australia, in topographically subdued and fire‐prone landscapes. Consequently, it could be expected that these communities would have historically experienced similar fire regimes, and would respond similarly to variation in aspects of the fire regime. We studied the response of mallee‐heath and mallee to time since the last fire, measuring species density, species–area relationships, diversity indices and vegetation structure. Floristic responses to time since fire accorded with the initial floristic composition model of plant succession, with declining species density and Shannon diversity with age in mallee‐heath. Mallee‐heath exhibited structural senescence when > approximately 45–55 years since fire, with increasing standing dead vegetation, bare ground and stagnating or declining size in sprouting Eucalyptus spp. Mallee showed no such evidence of senescence, and indeed continued to increase in stature beyond the mean fire interval but without the compositional change required to provide support for the relay floristic model of plant succession. These results indicate that mallee‐heath is a fire maintained community and as such is reliant upon periodic burning to maintain diversity and vigour. Mallee, in contrast, is modified but not maintained by fire (at least over the period of time since fire examined) and hence is less susceptible to fire interval effects. Indeed, structural attributes likely to be significant for fauna habitat and carbon sequestration continue to develop in mallee unburnt for 55 years or more. Different responses to time since fire will create challenges for management, particularly in fragmented landscapes where fire potentially interacts with other threatening processes.
Ophthalmic and cone derived electrodiagnostic findings in outbred Miniature Long‐haired Dachshunds homozygous for a RPGRIP1 mutation
Authors: Busse Claudia , Barnett Keith C. , Mellersh Cathryn S. , Adams Vicki J.
Published: April 2011

Objective  To investigate ophthalmic and cone‐derived electrodiagnostic findings in outbred Miniature Long‐haired Dachshunds (MLHD) homozygous for a mutation in the RPGRIP1 gene previously associated with cone‐rod dystrophy 1 (cord1).

Animals  A total of 36 MLHD homozygous for the RPGRIP1 mutation and 23 dogs clear of the mutation (control group).

Procedures  The dogs underwent ophthalmic examination and photopic electroretinogram (ERG) recordings.

Results  None of the control dogs presented with clinical or ophthalmic signs consistent with cord1. Amongst the dogs homozygous for the mutation one presented with bilateral symmetrical total retinal atrophy. None of the other dogs in this group showed signs consistent with cord1. Photopic ERG recordings were available in 23 control dogs and 34 dogs homozygous for the mutation. Photopic a‐ and b‐waves following four light stimuli (3 cdS/m2) at a rate of 5.1 Hz were not significantly different between groups. The amplitudes of the 30 Hz flicker (128 flashes, 3 cdS/m2) response were significantly reduced in the dogs homozygous for the PRGRIP1 mutation. The difference in age between the two groups did not significantly affect the difference.

Conclusion  Homozygosity of the RPGRIP1 mutation does not invariably result in early onset cord1. However, cone derived ERG recordings show evidence of a reduced cone or inner retinal function in homozygous but clinically normal MLHD. Modifying genes that have yet to be identified may influence an individual dog’s risk of developing the blinding cord1 and also the age of onset and rate of progression.
Effect of central corneal thickness on intraocular pressure with the rebound tonometer and the applanation tonometer in normal dogs
Authors: Park Young‐Woo , Jeong Man‐Bok , Kim Tae‐Hyun , Ahn Jae‐Sang , Ahn Jeong‐Taek , Park Shin‐Ae , Kim Se‐Eun , Seo Kangmoon
Published: April 2011

Objective To evaluate the effect of central corneal thickness (CCT) on the measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP) with the rebound (TonoVet®) and applanation (TonoPen XL®) tonometers in beagle dogs.

Animal studied Both eyes of 60 clinically normal dogs were used.

Procedures The IOP was measured by the TonoVet®, followed by the TonoPen XL®in half of the dogs, while the other half was measured in the reverse order. All CCT measurements were performed 10 min after the use of the second tonometer.

Results The mean IOP value measured by the TonoVet®(16.9 ± 3.7 mmHg) was significantly higher than the TonoPen XL®(11.6 ± 2.7 mmHg;P < 0.001). The IOP values obtained by both tonometers were correlated in the regression analysis (γ2 = 0.4393,P < 0.001). Bland–Altman analysis showed that the lower and upper limits of agreement between the two devices were −0.1 and +10.8 mmHg, respectively. The mean CCT was 549.7 ± 51.0 μm. There was a correlation between the IOP values obtained by the two tonometers and CCT readings in the regression analysis (TonoVet®:P = 0.002, TonoPen XL®:P = 0.035). The regression equation demonstrated that for every 100 μm increase in CCT, there was an elevation of 1 and 2 mmHg in IOP measured by the TonoPen XL®and TonoVet®, respectively.

Conclusions The IOP obtained by the TonoVet®and TonoPen XL®would be affected by variations in the CCT. Therefore, the CCT should be considered when interpreting IOP values measured by tonometers in dogs.
Computed tomographic‐dacryocystography (CT‐DCG) of the normal canine nasolacrimal drainage system with three‐dimensional reconstruction
Authors: Rached Paula A. , Canola Júlio C. , Schlüter Claudia , Laus José L. , Oechtering Gerhard , de Almeida Denise E. , Ludewig Eberhard
Published: April 2011

The aims of the study were (1) to quantify the influence of selected imaging parameters on the image quality (slice thickness, mAs, and beam orientation) defining optimal conditions for scan protocols and (2) to evaluate the benefits of the 3D reconstruction techniques for visualization of NDS structures in dogs. CT‐DCG was performed bilaterally in 32 heads of dogs. CT transverse images were obtained using a combination of two slice thickness values (0.8 mm and 2 mm) and two mAs values (50 mAs and 300 mAs). Two beam projection orientations were also tested: transverse plane (perpendicular to the hard palate) and oblique to the hard palate. Three‐dimensional images were obtained using Volume Rendering (VR). Transverse beam projection proved to be superior for the assessment of the inferior and superior lacrimal canaliculi and lacrimal sac. In this study, there was no statistical difference regarding mAs values (50 mAs and 300 mAs) and slice thickness values (0.8 mm and 2 mm). Three‐dimensional images were helpful for the assessment of topographic relationship between nasolacrimal structures and cranial landmarks.
The effect of UV‐blocking contact lenses as a therapy for canine chronic superficial keratitis
Authors: Denk Nora , Fritsche Jens , Reese Sven
Published: April 2011

Objective To evaluate the effect of UV‐blocking soft contact lenses in treatment for chronic superficial keratitus (CSK).

Methods Twenty six dogs with CSK were treated continuously with UV‐blocking contact lenses for 6 months. A contact lens was placed on one eye of each dog; the other eye remained without a lens as a control eye. After this primary study, five of the dogs were further treated and they wore then contact lenses in both eyes. Continuously, all patients were concurrently treated topically with cyclosporine. The contact lenses were changed every 4 weeks and an ophthalmic examination performed. Evaluation criteria included corneal alterations as pigmentation, edema, pannus and vascularization. To determine the transmittance characteristics of the contact lenses before and after use, 32 contact lenses were measured with a UV‐vis‐NIR spectrophotometer.

Results Pigmentation increased in eyes wearing lenses and in control eyes over the evaluation period of 6 months. Corneal edema increased in the eyes wearing lenses, but remained unaffected in the control eyes. A significant difference in the incidence of pannus and the extent of corneal vascularisation could not be evaluated. Adverse effects were noted in six cases (corneal edema and vascularisation, conjunctivitis, blepharospasm). All new lenses studied reduced UV‐radiation to a safe level, whereas used lenses did not maintain their transmittance characteristics.

Conclusions No positive effect of UV‐blocking contact lenses could be proven with the study design used.
360‐degree conjunctival grafting for management of diffuse keratomalacia in a dog
Authors: Pumphrey Stephanie A. , Pizzirani Stefano , Pirie Christopher G.
Published: April 2011

We present a report describing use of a 360‐degree conjunctival graft for management of progressive keratomalacia refractory to medical treatment in a 5‐month‐old American Cocker Spaniel. In the dog of this report, the extension of melting to nearly the entire corneal surface limited surgical options. Following surgery and later resection of the graft, the patient is visual with minimal corneal opacity. Numerous corneal grafting techniques have been described in companion animals, but require special materials and may not be possible when melting is extensive. Although older animals or animals with additional corneal pathology may have less ideal outcomes in terms of corneal clarity than the patient of this report, we believe that 360‐degree conjunctival grafting offers a viable and cost‐effective option for management of cases with extensive keratomalacia that may otherwise have resulted in enucleation.
Barriers and facilitators to cannabis treatment
Authors: GATES PETER , COPELAND JAN , SWIFT WENDY , MARTIN GREG
Published: April 2011

Introduction and Aims. Despite its continued widespread use, relatively few individuals with cannabis use disorders present to treatment services. There is a dearth of research examining the reasons for this observed underutilisation of treatment. The aim of this paper is to examine barriers and facilitators to entry into cannabis treatment.

Design and Methods. Three surveys of regular cannabis users in treatment (n = 100), in the community (n = 100) and from a widespread Internet sample (n = 294).

Results. Perceived barriers included: not being aware of treatment options; thinking treatment is unnecessary; not wanting to stop using cannabis; and wanting to avoid the stigma associated with accessing treatment. Perceived facilitators included: improving available information on treatment; keeping treatment specific to cannabis; offering additional services, such as telephone support; and simplifying treatment admission processes.

Discussion and Conclusions. Participant's perceptions differed significantly depending on their age, gender and treatment status. Participants in treatment typically reported barriers intrinsic to the individual while participants from the community reported barriers relating to the treatment available. Reported facilitators were more homogenous and most commonly related to availability of information. [Gates P, Copeland J, Swift W, Martin G. Barriers and facilitators to cannabis treatment. Drug Alcohol Rev 2012;31:311–319]
Problems in identifying predictors and correlates of weight loss and maintenance: implications for weight control therapies based on behaviour change
Authors: Stubbs J. , Whybrow S. , Teixeira P. , Blundell J. , Lawton C. , Westenhoefer J. , Engel D. , Shepherd R. , Mcconnon Á. , Gilbert P. , Raats M.
Published: April 2011

Weight management is a dynamic process, with a pre‐treatment phase, a treatment (including process) phase and post‐treatment maintenance, and where relapse is possible during both the treatment and maintenance.

Variability in the statistical power of the studies concerned, heterogeneity in the definitions, the complexity of obesity and treatment success, the constructs and measures used to predict weight loss and maintenance, and an appreciation of who and how many people achieve it, make prediction difficult.

In models of weight loss or maintenance: (i) predictors explain up to 20–30% of the variance; (ii) many predictors are the sum of several small constituent variables, each accounting for a smaller proportion of the variance; (iii) correlational or predictive relationships differ across study populations; (iv) inter‐individual variability in predictors and correlates of outcomes is high and (v) most of the variance remains unexplained.

Greater standardization of predictive constructs and outcome measures, in more clearly defined study populations, tracked longitudinally, is needed to better predict who sustains weight loss.

Treatments need to develop a more individualized approach that is sensitive to patients' needs and individual differences, which requires measuring and predicting patterns of intra‐individual behaviour variations associated weight loss and its maintenance. This information will help people shape behaviour change solutions to their own lifestyle needs.
On Moving Frames and Noether’s Conservation Laws
Authors: Gonçalves T. M. N. , Mansfield E. L.
Published: April 2011

Noether’s Theorem yields conservation laws for a Lagrangian with a variational symmetry group. The explicit formulae for the laws are well known and the symmetry group is known to act on the linear space generated by the conservation laws. The aim of this paper is to explain the mathematical structure of both the Euler‐Lagrange system and the set of conservation laws, in terms of the differential invariants of the group action and a moving frame. For the examples, we demonstrate, knowledge of this structure allows the Euler‐Lagrange equations to be integrated with relative ease. Our methods take advantage of recent advances in the theory of moving frames by Fels and Olver, and in the symbolic invariant calculus by Hubert. The results here generalize those appearing in Kogan and Olver [1] and in Mansfield [2]. In particular, we show results for high‐dimensional problems and classify those for the three inequivalent SL(2) actions in the plane.
Volitional saccades and attentional mechanisms in schizophrenia patients and healthy control subjects
Authors: Reuter Benedikt , Möllers David , Bender Julia , Schwehn Asysa , Ziemek Juliane , Gallinat Jürgen , Kathmann Norbert
Published: April 2011

Schizophrenia (SZ) patients showed increased volitional saccade latencies, suggesting deficient volitional initiation of action. Yet increased volitional saccade latencies may also result from deficits in attention shifts. To dissociate attention shifting and saccade initiation, we asked 25 SZ patients and 25 healthy subjects to make saccades toward newly appearing (onset) targets and toward the loci of disappearing (offset) targets. Similar onsets and offsets were also used as attention cues in a Posner‐type manual task. As expected, onsets and offsets had similar effects on attention. In contrast, saccade latencies were considerably longer with offset compared to onset targets, reflecting additional time for volitional saccade initiation. Unexpectedly, SZ patients had normal saccade latencies. Presumably, the expected deficit was compensated by decreased fixation‐related neural activity, which was induced by the disappearance of fixation stimuli.
L‐NAME cotreatment did prevent neither mitochondrial impairment nor behavioral abnormalities in adult Wistar rats treated with vitamin A supplementation
Authors: de Oliveira Marcos Roberto , da Rocha Ricardo Fagundes , Schnorr Carlos Eduardo , Moreira José Cláudio Fonseca
Published: April 2011

Vitamin A has been characterized as a potential neurotoxin, because ingestion of such vitamin – or its derivatives, the retinoids – at moderate to high doses elicits a myriad of deleterious effects, from acute intoxication involving head‐ache, confusion, and ‘pseudo tumor cerebri’ to chronic, and perhaps irreversible, abnormalities, including irritability, anxiety, depression, and suicide ideation. Nevertheless, it still remains to be found the mechanism by which vitamin A induces cognitive decline. Based on the fact that vitamin A at clinical doses is a potent pro‐oxidant agent to the central nervous system, we performed the present work to analyze whether a cotreatment with L‐NAME at 30 mg/kg (four times a week) was able to prevent (or minimize) the biochemical and/or behavioral disturbances resulting from a 28‐day daily supplementation with retinol palmitate at doses from 1000 to 9000 IU/kg/day. Then, we investigated mitochondrial function, redox parameters, and the levels of proteins potentially involved in neurodegenerative events, as for instance α‐synuclein and receptor for advanced glycation endproducts. Besides, monoamine oxidase enzyme activity was quantified in this work. We observed that L‐NAME cotreatment was not completely effective in preventing the redox disturbances induced by vitamin A supplementation. Moreover, L‐NAME cotreatment did not affect the behavioral deficits elicited by vitamin A supplementation. We conclude that other parameters rather than NO levels or its derivatives, as for example ONOO−, take a more important role in mediating the negative effects triggered by vitamin A supplementation.
Na+/K+‐ATPase inhibition upregulates NMDA‐evoked currents in rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons
Authors: Zhang Linan , Guo Fang , Su Suwen , Guo Huicai , Xiong Chen , Yin Jian , Li Wenya , Wang Yongli
Published: April 2011

Na+/K+‐ATPase and N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor in hippocampus play very important roles in the regulation of learning and memory. Here, we showed that dihydroouabain (DHO, 10−5–10−3 m), a Na+/K+‐ATPase inhibitor, significantly potentiated NMDA current in rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, which was blocked by PP2 (the selective Src tyrosine kinase inhibitor) and PD‐98059 [the selective inhibitor of the mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPK) cascade]. These findings reported here uncover that Src mediates the cross‐talk between Na+/K+‐ATPase and NMDA receptor to transduce the signals from Na+/K+‐ATPase to the MAPK cascade and provide new insights into therapeutic target for deeper understanding of the nature of cognitive disorder.
Amniotes through major biological crises: faunal turnover among Parareptiles and the end‐Permian mass extinction
Authors: RUTA MARCELLO , CISNEROS JUAN C. , LIEBRECHT TORSTEN , TSUJI LINDA A. , MÜLLER JOHANNES
Published: April 2011

Abstract: The Parareptilia are a small but ecologically and morphologically diverse clade of Permian and Triassic crown amniotes generally considered to be phylogenetically more proximal to eureptiles (diapsids and their kin) than to synapsids (mammals and their kin). A recent supertree provides impetus for an analysis of parareptile diversity through time and for examining the influence of the end‐Permian mass extinction on the clade’s origination and extinction rates. Phylogeny‐corrected measures of diversity have a significant impact on both rates and the distribution of origination and extinction intensities. Time calibration generally results in a closer correspondence between origination and extinction rate values than in the case of no time correction. Near the end‐Permian event, extinction levels are not significantly higher than origination levels, particularly when time calibration is introduced. Finally, regardless of time calibration and/or phylogenetic correction, the distribution of rates does not differ significantly from unimodal. The curves of rate values are discussed in the light of the numbers and distributions of both range extensions and ghost lineages. The disjoint time distributions of major parareptile clades (e.g. procolophonoids and nycteroleterids‐pareiasaurs) are mostly responsible for the occurrence of long‐range extensions throughout the Permian. Available data are not consistent with a model of sudden decline at the end‐Permian but rather suggest a rapid alternation of originations and extinctions in a number of parareptile groups, both before and after the Permian/Triassic boundary.
Public and private, divine and temporal in Justus Lipsius' De Constantia and Politica
Authors: CONSTANTINIDOU NATASHA
Published: April 2011

The Flemish humanist Justus Lipsius’ (1547–1606) two works, the Constantia and the Politica are analysed here as examples of the redefinition of the boundaries between public and private brought about in the late sixteenth century. This was the result of many factors, among which the wars of religion was perhaps the most prominent. Lipsius’ experience of the wars, his work, his associated flights and confessional switches make him an ideal commentator on the disjunction between public and private. In the two works under consideration, prudence and constancy are ascribed to the two domains while the different traits of the two virtues reflect on the different moral framework of public and private. The moral superiority of the private realm is associated with the divine through man's personal relationship with God following the Stoic notion of the kinship between human and divine reason. Prudence, an entirely human and temporal virtue, equips man in his conduct through the instability and depravity of temporal/human affairs. Man can still be constant, however, and maintain his morality and religious integrity in private. Thus, in the context of the continuous religious tension and political instability the moral implications of the distinction between the two realms render the discourse of the relationship between public‐private and divine‐temporal into an issue regarding the limits of ecclesiastical and political jurisdiction.
Silver Diffusion in Silicon Carbide Coatings
Authors: López‐Honorato Eddie , Zhang Huixing , Yang DaXiang , Xiao Ping
Published: April 2011

We have studied the effect of microstructure on the diffusion of silver (Ag) in different silicon carbide (SiC) coatings in tristructural isotropic‐coated particles. Silicon carbide was deposited at 1300°–1500°C by fluidized bed chemical vapor deposition. The SiC coatings have been heat treated at 1200°–1400°C for 240 h. Depending on the microstructure our results confirm that silver can diffuse by grain‐boundary diffusion but that a high concentration of nano‐ and microporosity at the grain boundaries can strongly influence the diffusion process by increasing the diffusion coefficient by at least two orders of magnitude (from ∼10−17 for standard coatings to ≥10−15 m2/s at 1200°C). We also show that the presence of excess silicon or the formation of long columnar grains in SiC does not increase the diffusion of silver as previously thought. Our results do not support the idea that silver diffuses through SiC due to the formation of defects produced by mechanical damage (nanocracks). Silver is aiding the recrystallization of SiC when heat treated at 1400°C.
Effects of CaZrO3 on X8R Nonreducible BaTiO3‐BasedDielectric Ceramics
Authors: Yao Guofeng , Wang Xiaohui , Sun Tieyu , Li Longtu
Published: April 2011

Effects of CaZrO3 on BaTiO3–MgO–MnO2–Y2O3 nonreducible ceramics were investigated. The specimens modified by CaZrO3 in the range from 0 to2 mol% were prepared via conventional mixing method. Transmission electron microscopic analysis revealed that doping elements were enriched at grain boundaries and “core–shell” structures were formed. The addition of CaZrO3 could lower the sintering temperature. The Curie temperature was shifted to a higher point with increasing CaZrO3, attributed to the existence of an internal stress produced by lattice mismatch between grain cores and shells. Temperature dependence of dielectric constant and capacitance change were also dependent on CaZrO3 content. With the increasing of CaZrO3 content, the insulation resistivity was improved whereas the degradation under direct current electrical field was significant. Therefore, a proper CaZrO3 content is crucial to obtain high performance X8R nonreducible BaTiO3‐based dielectrics.
Alpha‐interferon induced sarcoidosis mimicking metastatic melanoma
Authors: North Jeffrey , Mully Thaddeus
Published: April 2011

Despite its modest potential benefit, alpha‐interferon is one of the most frequently employed therapies for melanoma. With the increasing incidence of melanoma, a parallel increase in interferon use and the associated adverse reactions that accompany interferon therapy should be expected. We present a case of an interferon‐induced sarcoidosis‐like reaction in a melanoma patient that was initially misinterpreted clinically and radiographically as metastatic melanoma. The etiology of sarcoidosis remains a mystery, but appears to involve Th‐1 cytokines such as interferon and interleukin‐2. Observance of a sarcoidosis‐like reaction induced by interferon therapy lends additional support to the importance of this cytokine in the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis. It is important for pathologists to be aware of this entity when interpreting biopsies from melanoma patients treated with interferon.

North J, Mully T. Alpha‐interferon induced sarcoidosis mimicking metastatic melanoma.
Sleep disturbance in mild cognitive impairment: differential effects of current and remitted depression
Authors: Naismith Sharon L. , Rogers Naomi L. , Lewis Simon J. G. , Diamond Keri , Terpening Zoë , Norrie Louisa , Hickie Ian B.
Published: April 2011

Naismith SL, Rogers NL, Lewis SJG, Diamond K, Terpening Z, Norrie L, Hickie IB. Sleep disturbance in mild cognitive impairment: differential effects of current and remitted depression.

Objective:Although patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) commonly report sleep disturbance, the extent to which depressive symptoms contribute to this relationship is unclear. This study sought to delineate the contribution of current and remitted major depression (MD) to sleep disturbance in MCI.

Methods:Seventy-seven patients meeting criteria for MCI (mean age = 66.6 ± 8.8 years) were grouped according to those withnohistory of depression (MCI,n= 33), those meeting criteria forcurrentMD [mild cognitive impairment and meeting criteria for current major depression (DEP-C),n= 14] and those withremittedMD [mild cognitive impairment and remitted major depression (DEP-R),n= 30]. Additionally, 17 healthy controls (CON) participated. Sleep was patient-rated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and included assessment of sleep quality, duration, efficiency, disturbances, medications, sleep onset latency and daytime dysfunction. Depression severity was clinician-rated using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale.

Results:Overall sleep disturbance was significantly greater in the DEP-C and DEP-R groups in comparison to the CON and MCI groups (p< 0.001). Only 12% of CON reported sleep disturbance, compared to 30% of MCI, 63% of DEP-R and 86% of DEP-C. Sub-scale analysis showed that the sleep disturbance in depressive groups was most evident across the domains of sleep quality, sleep efficiency, sleep latency and daytime dysfunction.

Conclusion:Sleep disturbance in MCI is strongly associated with a current or past diagnosis of MD. The finding that sleep complaints are still prominent in those with remitted depression, suggests that ‘trait' markers exist that may reflect underlying neurobiological changes within the sleep–wake system.
Epsilon toxin: a fascinating pore‐forming toxin
Authors: Popoff Michel R.
Published: April 2011

Epsilon toxin (ETX) is produced by strains of Clostridium perfringens classified as type B or type D. ETX belongs to the heptameric β‐pore‐forming toxins including aerolysin and Clostridium septicum alpha toxin, which are characterized by the formation of a pore through the plasma membrane of eukaryotic cells consisting in a β‐barrel of 14 amphipatic β strands. By contrast to aerolysin and C. septicum alpha toxin, ETX is a much more potent toxin and is responsible for enterotoxemia in animals, mainly sheep. ETX induces perivascular edema in various tissues and accumulates in particular in the kidneys and brain, where it causes edema and necrotic lesions. ETX is able to pass through the blood–brain barrier and stimulate the release of glutamate, which accounts for the symptoms of nervous excitation observed in animal enterotoxemia. At the cellular level, ETX causes rapid swelling followed by cell death involving necrosis. The precise mode of action of ETX remains to be determined. ETX is a powerful toxin, however, it also represents a unique tool with which to vehicle drugs into the central nervous system or target glutamatergic neurons.
Fabrication of Thin‐Films Composed of ZnO Nanorods Using Electrophoretic Deposition
Authors: Hara Yukihiro , Brownson Jeffrey R. S. , Anderson Marc A.
Published: April 2011

We have investigated a template‐free electrophoretic deposition (EPD) process using preformed ZnO nanorods suspended in isopropanol. The preformed ZnO nanorods were synthesized using a solvothermal reaction under different conditions of temperature and time. The length of the resulting ZnO nanorods depended on conditions of synthesis. The powders of ZnO nanorods were then suspended in isopropanol. Electrophoretic mobility of the ZnO nanorods was measured and zeta potential calculated. Thin‐films comprised of ZnO nanorods were fabricated on transparent conductive oxide glass using EPD. Resulting ZnO thin‐films were smooth and uniform, and film‐weight was controlled by changing the voltage that was applied as well as the time of deposition. These thin‐films were characterized by X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy methods. To illustrate one application of these electrophoretically deposited materials, the films of both ZnO nanorods and nanopowders were used as photoelectrodes of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSCs) and their performance tested. The DSCs fabricated with a film of ZnO nanorods showed higher efficiency than those of ZnO nanopowders.
Effect of Graphite Pore‐Forming Agents on the Sintering Characteristics of Ni/YSZ Composites for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Clemmer Ryan M. C. , Corbin Stephen F.
Published: April 2011

Pore‐forming agents are an effective way to engineer porosity in a sintered compact. When adding graphite to tape cast nickel oxide (NiO) and yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) composites, the amount of porosity created is similar to the volume of graphite added. The sintering characteristics of NiO/YSZ composites with varying graphite loadings are similar to the sintering characteristics of the graphite‐free composites. Below a critical graphite loading of 20 vol% graphite of the pressed green volume, the volumetric sintering shrinkage increases slightly with increasing graphite loading because of the higher organic material content in the tape. Above a graphite loading of 20 vol%, swelling in the composite thickness is severe thus introducing greater linear sintering shrinkage anisotropy. The sintering anisotropy is attributed to the delamination of the tape cast layers caused by the large volume of exit gases formed during the graphite burnout.
Biological and Mechanical Properties of Nanohydroxyapatite‐Containing Carbon/Carbon Composites
Authors: Mikociak Danuta , Blazewicz Stanislaw , Michalowski Jerzy
Published: April 2011

This paper deals with carbon/carbon composites modified with a ceramic component designed for bone tissue repairing. The composites were manufactured from pitch precursors modified with a hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanopowder. Carbon fibers were used as a reinforcement. The flexural strength and modulus of the composites before and after modification with HAp were examined. Biological properties of the composites were examined in in vitro tests. Apatite formation on ceramic nanoparticle‐modified carbon composite surface was observed. Mechanical tests showed that nanohydroxyapatite‐modified composite samples have good mechanical properties and perform an improved bioactivity in simulated body fluid in comparison with the pure carbon samples.
The cataclysmic variable SDSS J1507+52: an eclipsing period bouncer in the Galactic halo
Authors: Uthas Helena , Knigge Christian , Long Knox S. , Patterson Joseph , Thorstensen John
Published: April 2011

SDSS J1507+52 is an eclipsing cataclysmic variable (CV) consisting of a cool, non-radially pulsating white dwarf and an unusually small substellar secondary. The system has a high space velocity and a very short orbital period of about 67 min, well below the usual minimum period for CVs. To explain the existence of this peculiar system, two theories have been proposed. One suggests that SDSS J1507+52 was formed from a detached white dwarf-brown dwarf binary. The other theory proposes that the system is a member of the Galactic halo population.

Here, we present the ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy of SDSS J1507+52 obtained with the Hubble Space Telescope with the aim of distinguishing between these two theories. The UV flux of the system is dominated by the emission from the accreting white dwarf. Fits to model stellar atmospheres yield physical parameter estimates of Teff= 14 200 ± 500 K, log g= 8.2 ± 0.3, v sin i= 180 ± 20 km s-1 and [Fe/H]=-1.2 ± 0.2. These fits suggest a distance towards SDSS J1507+52 of d= 250 ± 50 pc. The quoted uncertainties include systematic errors associated with the adopted fitting windows and interstellar reddening.

Assuming that there is no contribution to the UV flux from a hot, optically thick boundary layer, we find a Teff much higher than previously estimated from eclipse analyses. The strongly subsolar metallicity we infer for SDSS J1507+52 is consistent with that of halo stars at the same space velocity. We therefore conclude that SDSS J1507+52 is a member of the Galactic halo.
Rationales Behind Irrationality of Decision Making in Groundwater Quality Management
Authors: Ronen Daniel , Sorek Shaul , Gilron Jack
Published: April 2011

This issue paper presents how certain policies regarding management of groundwater quality lead to unexpected and undesirable results, despite being backed by seemingly reasonable assumptions. This happened in part because the so‐called reasonable decisions were not based on an integrative and quantitative methodology. The policies surveyed here are: (1) implementation of a program for aquifer restoration to pristine conditions followed, after failure, by leaving it to natural attenuation; (2) the “Forget About The Aquifer” (FATA) approach, while ignoring possible damage that contaminated groundwater can inflict on the other environmental systems; (3) groundwater recharge in municipal areas while neglecting the presence of contaminants in the unsaturated zone and conditions exerted by upper impervious surfaces; (4) the Soil Aquifer Treatment (SAT) practice considering aquifers to be “filters of infinite capacity”; and (5) focusing on well contamination vs. aquifer contamination to conveniently defer grappling with the problem of the aquifer as a whole.

Possible reasons for the failure of these seemingly rational policies are: (1) the characteristic times of processes associated with groundwater that are usually orders of magnitude greater than the residence times of decision makers in their managerial position; (2) proliferation of improperly trained “groundwater experts” or policymakers with sectoral agendas alongside legitimate differences of opinion among groundwater scientists; (3) the neglect of the cyclic nature of natural phenomena; and (4) ignoring future long‐term costs because of immediate costs.
Teaching and Learning Resilience: Building Adaptive Capacity for Rural Practice. A Report and Subsequent Analysis of a Workshop Conducted at the Rural Medical Educators Conference, Savannah, Georgia, May 18, 2010
Authors: Longenecker Randall , Zink Therese , Florence Joseph
Published: April 2011

Abstract  Purpose: Resilience, the capacity to endure and overcome hardship, has been suggested as a basic competency for rural medical practice. Unfortunately for physician educators, the medical education literature offers only limited guidance for nurturing this adaptive capacity. We describe the process and subsequent analysis of a daylong curriculum development workshop conducted at the annual meeting of Rural Medical Educators in 2010.

Methods: Fifty administrator, faculty and student attendees reflected individually and worked in groups to construct key curricular components and modalities for teaching this competency. Prior to the meeting, participants were asked to submit a personal story about resilience. The 22 narratives received were distributed across 8 groups and provided the grist for the small group discussions, in which each group identified key concepts for teaching and learning about resilience, constructed a concept map, and developed a curriculum that was presented to all session participants. Concept maps, curriculum outlines and notes taken during the presentations were analyzed using content analysis techniques.

Findings: Data highlight the importance of (1) embracing hardship as an opportunity for growth, (2) viewing resilience as both an individual and community property, (3) pursuing adaptability more than hardiness, and (4) setting a lifelong pattern of learning this competency in practice. Specific teaching modalities are suggested including individual reflective time and group activities.

Conclusions: To our knowledge this represents a first effort to define and develop a medical curriculum for teaching resiliency in rural predoctoral and residency education.