bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of an early memories of warmth and safeness scale and its relationship to psychopathology
Authors: Richter A. , Gilbert P. , McEwan K.
Published: January 2009

Experiences of early childhood have a major impact on physiological, psychological, and social aspects of maturation and functioning. One avenue of work explores the recall and memory of positive or negative rearing experiences and their association with psychopathology measures. However, while many self‐report studies have focused on the recall of parental behaviours this study developed a new measure called the early memories of warmth and safeness scale (EMWSS), which focuses on recall of one's own inner positive feelings, emotions and experiences in childhood. Student participants (N=180) completed the new scale and a series of self‐report scales measuring different types of early recall, psychopathology, types of positive affect, and self‐criticism/reassurance. The EMWSS was found to have good psychometric properties and reliability. Recall of parental behaviour and recall of positive emotional memories were highly related, but recall of positive emotional memories was a better predictor of psychopathology, styles of self‐criticism/self‐reassurance and disposition to experience positive affect, than recall of parental behaviour.
Are We There Yet? Screening Processes for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Jail Settings
Authors: Scheyett Anna , Vaughn Jennie , Taylor Melissa , Parish Susan
Published: January 2009

Early identification of intellectual and developmental disabilities in persons in the criminal justice system is essential to protect their rights during arrest and trial, ensure safety when incarcerated, and maximize the opportunities to receive services while incarcerated and postrelease. Using telephone interviews of jail administrators (N = 80) in 1 state, this study examined how people with intellectual and developmental disabilities were identified in jails. Findings indicated that administrators varied widely in awareness of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their jails. Few jails (6%) used formal screening instruments for intellectual and developmental disabilities, others relied on officer observation and self-report (53%), and some provided no screening at all; in addition, officers received little training in this regard. Findings suggest that few jails are operationalizing best-practice screening processes for intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Internet-Based Self-Management of Generalised Anxiety Disorder: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Draper Mark , Rees Clare S. , Nathan Paula R.
Published: January 2009

Despite the continuing development of effective cognitive and behavioural interventions for Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) less attention has been paid to the important issue of improving treatment accessibility and affordability. Self-management approaches that utilise the convenience of the Internet may provide a means by which more people can avail themselves of effective treatments. To date, studies examining the effectiveness of such approaches for GAD lag behind the work conducted with other clinical problems. This study describes the response of three individuals with a primary diagnosis of GAD to an Internet-based treatment completed at their own pace. The intervention (‘What? Me Worry!?!; Saulsman, Nathan, Lim, and Correia, 2005) combines several cognitive and behavioural components with the inclusion of a significant metacognitive component. All participants achieved clinically significant improvement on measures of worry, GAD symptomatology, and metacognitions. Moreover, none of the participants met the diagnostic criteria for GAD at the completion of the study. A larger randomised controlled trial of this intervention is indicated.
Die Abwendung der Säumnis durch den Streithelfer
Authors: Skauradszun Dominik , Hamm Tobias
Published: January 2009

Seit Ende des 19. Jahrhunderts das Reichsgericht die Ansicht vertreten hat, der Nebenintervenient könne durch eigenes Verhandeln im Prozess die Säumnis der unterstützten Hauptpartei abwenden, ist diese Auffassung in Rechtsprechung und Literatur unangefochten fortgeführt worden. Bei genauerer Betrachtung findet sich aber weder in der Rechtsprechung noch im Schrifttum dafür eine Begründung. Der Beitrag versucht zu zeigen, dass die Auslegung der ZPO gegen eine solche Abwendungsbefugnis des Streithelfers spricht.
Determination of Appropriate Sample Depth during Air-Drying of Low Rank Coals Reduced to 2.36 mm (No. 8) Sieve Size
Authors: Hoeft Arthur P. , Smith Edwin M.
Published: January 2009

The current ASTM International standard for measuring Total Moisture in Coal (D3302-05) prescribes a multi-step process beginning with air-drying of the sample at a depth of one inch or less, but it has been noted in the literature that the final moisture results for low rank coals can be affected by the exact depth at which they are air-dried. The ASTM D05.21 Task Group on revisions to this method has conducted a number of studies on subbituminous C and lignite coals to assess whether the air-drying depth should be further restricted. Fresh samples were collected, prepared to minus 2.36 mm (No. 8) sieve size, then air-dried at various depths and analyzed at laboratories familiar with the particular coal(s) used. Compared to samples air-dried at more shallow depths, samples air-dried at depths of one inch showed lower results in total moisture by as much as -0.32 percentage points, with commensurate increases in calorific value of as much as +21 Btu/lb on the as-received basis. When air-drying was conducted at very shallow depths of 1/4 inch or less, statistically significant changes in MAF Btu/lb were identified. The likely explanation for the low moisture results is that the one inch depth does not allow buried coal particles to dry sufficiently, and moisture is then lost (but not accounted for) during subsequent pulverizing and riffling. It is thought that changes in MAF results are due to notable sample degradation occurring at shallow depths where many more particles are exposed to the atmosphere and significant oxidation takes place. Thus, varying the sample depth during air-drying can lead to inconsistent results for total moisture (and therefore as-received Btu/lb) as well as MAF Btu/lb. This paper concludes that to minimize these inconsistencies, air-drying of subC and lignite coals should be restricted to sample depths of about 1/2 inch.
Prediction of Distortion of Automotive Pinion Gears during Quenching Using CFD and FEA
Authors: MacKenzie D. Scott , Kumar Ashwini , Metwally Hossam , Paingankar Swapnil , Li Zhichao , Ferguson B. Lynn
Published: January 2009

FLUENT was used to simulate the quenchant flow through a quench rack of automotive pinions. Utilizing a typical heat treat rack arrangement, two parts in an actual rack of heat treated pinions were then evaluated by finite element simulations using the finite element software, DANTE®, using the CFD results as boundary conditions for the finite element analysis. Part shape change, internal stress, and phase transformation histories were calculated for this carburized pinion gear made of AISI 8620.
Tools for Fungal Proteomics: Multifunctional Neurospora Vectors for Gene Replacement, Protein Expression and Protein Purification
Authors: Honda Shinji , Selker Eric U
Published: January 2009

The completion of genome-sequencing projects for a number of fungi set the stage for detailed investigations of proteins. We report the generation of versatile expression vectors for detection and isolation of proteins and protein complexes in the filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa. The vectors, which can be adapted for other fungi, contain C- or N-terminal FLAG, HA, Myc, GFP, or HAT–FLAG epitope tags with a flexible poly-glycine linker and include sequences for targeting to the his-3 locus in Neurospora. To introduce mutations at native loci, we also made a series of knock-in vectors containing epitope tags followed by the selectable marker hph (resulting in hygromycin resistance) flanked by two loxP sites. We adapted the Cre/loxP system for Neurospora, allowing the selectable marker hph to be excised by introduction of Cre recombinase into a strain containing a knock-in cassette. Additionally, a protein purification method was developed on the basis of the HAT–FLAG tandem affinity tag system, which was used to purify HETEROCHROMATIN PROTEIN 1 (HP1) and associated proteins from Neurospora. As expected on the basis of yeast two-hybrid and co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) experiments, the Neurospora DNA methyltransferase DIM-2 was found in a complex with HP1. Features of the new vectors allowed for verification of an interaction between HP1 and DIM-2 in vivo by Co-IP assays on proteins expressed either from their native loci or from the his-3 locus.
Expression of I-CreI Endonuclease Generates Deletions Within the rDNA of Drosophila
Authors: Paredes Silvana , Maggert Keith A
Published: January 2009

The rDNA arrays in Drosophila contain the cis-acting nucleolus organizer regions responsible for forming the nucleolus and the genes for the 28S, 18S, and 5.8S/2S RNA components of the ribosomes and so serve a central role in protein synthesis. Mutations or alterations that affect the nucleolus organizer region have pleiotropic effects on genome regulation and development and may play a role in genomewide phenomena such as aging and cancer. We demonstrate a method to create an allelic series of graded deletions in the Drosophila Y-linked rDNA of otherwise isogenic chromosomes, quantify the size of the deletions using real-time PCR, and monitor magnification of the rDNA arrays as their functions are restored. We use this series to define the thresholds of Y-linked rDNA required for sufficient protein translation, as well as establish the rate of Y-linked rDNA magnification in Drosophila. Finally, we show that I-CreI expression can revert rDNA deletion phenotypes, suggesting that double-strand breaks are sufficient to induce rDNA magnification.
Effects of Wolbachia Infection and ovarian tumor Mutations on Sex-lethal Germline Functioning in Drosophila
Authors: Sun Sha , Cline Thomas W
Published: January 2009

Wolbachia is a ubiquitous intracellular endosymbiont of invertebrates. Surprisingly, infection of Drosophila melanogaster by this maternally inherited bacterium restores fertility to females carrying ovarian tumor (cystocyte overproliferation) mutant alleles of the Drosophila master sex-determination gene, Sex-lethal (Sxl). We scanned the Drosophila genome for effects of infection on transcript levels in wild-type previtellogenic ovaries that might be relevant to this suppression of female-sterile Sxl mutants by Wolbachia. Yolk protein gene transcript levels were most affected, being reduced by infection, but no genes showed significantly more than a twofold difference. The yolk gene effect likely signals a small, infection-induced delay in egg chamber maturation unrelated to suppression. In a genetic study of the Wolbachia–Sxl interaction, we established that germline Sxl controls meiotic recombination as well as cystocyte proliferation, but Wolbachia only influences the cystocyte function. In contrast, we found that mutations in ovarian tumor (otu) interfere with both Sxl germline functions. We were led to otu through characterization of a spontaneous dominant suppressor of the Wolbachia–Sxl interaction, which proved to be an otu mutation. Clearly Sxl and otu work together in the female germline. These studies of meiosis in Sxl mutant females revealed that X chromosome recombination is considerably more sensitive than autosomal recombination to reduced Sxl activity.
Elaboration, Diversification and Regulation of the Sir1 Family of Silencing Proteins in Saccharomyces
Authors: Gallagher Jennifer E G , Babiarz Joshua E , Teytelman Leonid , Wolfe Kenneth H , Rine Jasper
Published: January 2009

Heterochromatin renders domains of chromosomes transcriptionally silent and, due to clonal variation in its formation, can generate heritably distinct populations of genetically identical cells. Saccharomyces cerevisiae's Sir1 functions primarily in the establishment, but not the maintenance, of heterochromatic silencing at the HMR and HML loci. In several Saccharomyces species, we discovered multiple paralogs of Sir1, called Kos1–Kos4 (Kin of Sir1). The Kos and Sir1 proteins contributed partially overlapping functions to silencing of both cryptic mating loci in S. bayanus. Mutants of these paralogs reduced silencing at HML more than at HMR. Most genes of the SIR1 family were located near telomeres, and at least one paralog was regulated by telomere position effect. In S. cerevisiae, Sir1 is recruited to the silencers at HML and HMR via its ORC interacting region (OIR), which binds the bromo adjacent homology (BAH) domain of Orc1. Zygosaccharomyces rouxii, which diverged from Saccharomyces after the appearance of the silent mating cassettes, but before the whole-genome duplication, contained an ortholog of Kos3 that was apparently the archetypal member of the family, with only one OIR. In contrast, a duplication of this domain was present in all orthologs of Sir1, Kos1, Kos2, and Kos4. We propose that the functional specialization of Sir3, itself a paralog of Orc1, as a silencing protein was facilitated by the tandem duplication of the OIR domain in the Sir1 family, allowing distinct Sir1–Sir3 and Sir1–Orc1 interactions through OIR–BAH domain interactions.
Peripheral administration of GH induces cell proliferation in the brain of adult hypophysectomized rats
Authors: Åberg N David , Johansson Inger , Åberg Maria A I , Lind Johan , Johansson Ulf E , Cooper-Kuhn Christiana M , Kuhn H Georg , Isgaard Jörgen
Published: January 2009

IGF-I treatment has been shown to enhance cell genesis in the brains of adult GH- and IGF-I-deficient rodents; however, the influence of GH therapy remains poorly understood. The present study investigated the effects of peripheral recombinant bovine GH (bGH) on cellular proliferation and survival in the neurogenic regions (subventricular zone (SVZ), and dentate gyrus of the hippocampus), as well as the corpus callosum, striatum, parietal cortex, and piriform cortex. Hypopituitarism was induced in female rats by hypophysectomy, and the rats were supplemented with thyroxine and cortisone acetate. Subsequently, the rats received daily s.c. injections of bGH for either 6 or 28 days respectively. Following 5 days of peripheral bGH administration, the number of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU)-positive cells was increased in the hippocampus, striatum, parietal cortex, and piriform cortex after 6 and 28 days. In the SVZ, however, BrdU-positive cells increased only after 28 days of bGH treatment. No significant change was observed in the corpus callosum. In the hippocampus, after 28 days of bGH treatment, the number of BrdU/NeuN-positive cells was increased proportionally to increase the number of BrdU-positive cells. 3H-thymidine incorporation in vitro revealed that 24 h of bGH exposure was sufficient to increase cell proliferation in adult hippocampal progenitor cells. This study shows for the first time that 1) peripheral bGH treatment increased the number of newborn cells in the adult brain and 2) bGH exerted a direct proliferative effect on neuronal progenitor cells in vitro.
Human fetal pancreatic insulin-producing cells proliferate in vitro
Authors: Joglekar Mugdha V , Joglekar Vinay M , Joglekar Sheela V , Hardikar Anandwardhan A
Published: January 2009

There have been considerable efforts towards understanding the potential of human pancreatic endocrine cells to proliferate and transition into mesenchymal cell populations. Since rodent studies have demonstrated that mouse insulin-producing cells do not proliferate in vitro, a similar possibility has been considered for human islet endocrine cells. Considering the inherent differences in mouse and human pancreatic islets, we decided to assess the potential of human fetal pancreatic insulin-producing cells to proliferate in vitro. We studied the proliferative potential of human fetal pancreatic islet-derived populations from second or third trimester fetal pancreas and characterized the cells that grow out during their expansion. We have used seven different approaches including in situ hybridization and immunostaining, quantitative estimation of multiple gene transcripts in populations as well as in single cells, clonal analysis of islet cells, assessment of heritable marks of active insulin promoter, and thymidine analog-based lineage tracing. Our studies demonstrate that human fetal pancreatic insulin-producing cells proliferate in vitro to generate mesenchymal cell populations. Interestingly, epigenetic modifications that mark open chromatin conformation of insulin promoter regions are retained even after a million fold expansion/proliferation in vitro. These findings demonstrate that hormone-producing cells in pancreatic islets proliferate in vitro and retain epigenetic marks that characterize an active insulin promoter. Such in vitro-derived mesenchymal cells may be of potential use in cell-replacement therapy for diabetes.
Concentrations of selenium and mercury in eared grebes (Podiceps nigricollis) from Utah's great Salt Lake, USA
Authors: Conover Michael R. , Vest Josh L.
Published: January 2009

We examined selenium and mercury concentrations in eared grebes (Podiceps nigricollis) that spent the fall of 2006 on the Great Salt Lake (UT, USA), where their diet consisted mainly of brine shrimp (Artemia franciscana). Selenium concentrations in livers varied based on when the grebes were collected (lower in September [mean ± standard error, 9.4 ± 0.7 μg/g dry wt] than in November [14.5 ± 1.4 μg/g]), on where the birds were collected on the Great Salt Lake (Antelope Island, 8.6 ± 0.5 μg/g; Stansbury Island, 15.2 ± 1.4 μg/g), and on the grebe's age (juveniles, 8.5 ± 1.5 μg/g; adults, 15.8 ± 1.3 μg/g), but not by sex. Selenium concentrations in blood differed only by collection site (Antelope Island, 16.8 ± 2.3 μg/g; Stansbury Island, 25.4 ± 3.0 μg/g). Mercury concentration in the blood of grebes varied by when the grebes were collected (September, 5.6 ± 0.5 μg/g; November, 8.4 ± 1.2 μg/g), where the birds were collected (Antelope Island, 4.3 ± 0.5 μg/g; Stansbury Island, 10.1 ± 2.6 μg/g), and the grebe's age (juveniles, 5.5 ± 0.8 μg/g; adults, 8.4 ± 1.0 μg/g), but not by sex. Selenium concentrations in blood were correlated with selenium concentrations in the liver and with mercury concentrations in both blood and liver. Body mass of grebes increased dramatically from September (381 ± 14 g wet wt) to November (591 ± 11 g). Body, liver, and spleen mass either were not correlated with selenium or mercury concentrations or the relationship was positive. These results suggest that high mercury and selenium levels were not preventing grebes from increasing or maintaining mass.
Conceiving of an Electrochemical Cell for In Situ Hydrodynamic Approach
Authors: R. Dable Pierre Jean-Marie , Chaïnet Eric , Yao Benjamin , Gossan Ado
Published: January 2009

In the purpose of in situ control of hydrodynamic influence on electrochemical processes, a cell jet device has
been conceived and characterized. This cell was sensitive to parameters that are the jet tube diameter, and its height versus
the working electrode. So, the three hydrodynamic flow modes have been established from the non dimensional Reynolds
number. From the use of this cell for the study of co deposition from the Ni/SiC system with a WATT bath, it was shown
that the turbulent flow to favor more embedment of SiC particles in the nickel matrix. It also noted an influence of the flow mode and SiC particles on the working current.
Salt Modulates Oligomerization Properties of hRad51 and hRad52 Proteins
Authors: Balakrishnan Kamakshi , M. Krishnan Neeraja , J. Rao Basuthkar
Published: January 2009

Human Rad52 (hRad52) and Rad51 (hRad51) proteins are important components of homologous
recombination machinery involved in DNA double strand break repair. hRad52 subunits oligomerize to form rings, which
are further believed to stack one over another giving rise to higher order structures. Such structures bind the ends of
duplex DNA to bring about DNA end joining. hRad51 exists in the native state as oligomeric rings and monomerizes to
interact with the DNA. In our current study, we report disruption and solubilization of hRad52 aggregates and higher
order aggregation of hRad51 molecules at high salt (KCl) concentration. Computational analysis of the crystal structure
available for N-terminal 212 amino acids of hRad52 protein reveal a dense unique distribution of salt bridges, not only
between adjacent but also between penultimate subunit neighbors which perhaps contribute to stabilization of hRad52
oligomeric rings. Our results suggest that disruption of inter-subunit salt bridges and thereby perturbation of interaction
between individual monomers as the underlying mechanism for salt mediated monomerization of hRad52 protein. The
crystal structure of Rad51 on the other hand lacks such dense salt-bridge connectivity suggesting that salt-mediated
monomerization is a feature of proteins with dense salt-bridge networks. Salt brings together the hydrophobic surface
residues of hRad51 in a process termed as “salting out” resulting in aggregation of hRad51 molecules. Given the
functional relevance of oligomeric hRad52 and monomeric hRad51 in homologous recombination mediated repair, our
findings imply that salt regulates the oligomerization status of these repair proteins, and thereby, their functions
respectively.
Viral Encephalitis: Etiology, Clinical Features, Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Ferrari Sergio , Toniolo Antonio , Monaco Salvatore , Luciani Filippo , Cainelli Francesca , Baj Andreina , Temesgen Zelalem , Vento Sandro
Published: January 2009

Viral encephalitis is worldwide spread pathology with high morbidity and mortality. Its incidence is higher in
children. Enteroviruses, varicella zoster virus and herpes simplex viruses are the most frequent agents. However, in spite
of the use of modern microbiological and radiological methods, an etiological diagnosis is reached in less than 50% of
cases, making a careful differential diagnosis with non viral brain diseases imperative. Pathogenesis is elusive and therapy
continues to remain supportive in almost all cases, as the only virus-directed treatment is available for herpesvirus-related
encephalitis and a role for steroids continues to be debated. Novel and more targeted therapies are eagerly needed.
Effect of TEC Variation on GPS Precise Point at Low Latitude
Authors: Tiwari Rajesh , Bhattacharya Soumi , Purohit P.K. , Gwal A.K.
Published: January 2009

The ionosphere is a dispersive medium of charged particles between the satellite and the user on Earth. These dispersive ionized media play a vital role in the various applications of GPS (Global Positioning Systems) because the ionosphere directly influences transionospheric radio waves propagating from the satellite to the receiver. Solar flares affect the ionization state of the ionosphere with their high intensity. Sometimes the intensity is so severe that it accelerates the rate of ionization, resulting in ionospheric storms; during the ionospheric storms the concentration of charged particles varies. Among the various phenomena in the ionosphere, TEC (Total Electron Content) is responsible for range error which produces a time delay in the radio signal. The rate of change of TEC with respect to time is abbreviated as ROT. It is one of the parameters that express the ionospheric irregularities with respect to time. This work investigates the effect of ROT fluctuation on the precise positioning of GPS receivers during low solar activity periods in the equatorial anomaly
region. Good geometry and a sufficient number of locked satellites provide more accuracy within the centimeter level, but the case may be different when there are any ionospheric storms. Even a few satellite signals passing through the ionospheric irregularities can cause a significant error in positioning. Thus, it is important to understand the ionospheric irregularities observed by GPS receivers in order to correct them. The ROT (TEC/Minute) parameter is used here to study the occurrence of TEC fluctuation and its potential effect on GPS, such as a horizontal positional error or the satellite geometry of the GPS receiver. This investigation is based on the analysis of a one-year observation of a fixed GPS receiver installed at Bhopal (23.2020N, 77.4520E), India during low solar active period in 2005. The GPS receiver used here is a GISTM-based dual frequency NovAtel OEM4 GPS receiver.
New Lightning Detection Networks in Poland – LINET and LLDN
Authors: Loboda Marek , Betz Hans D. , Baranski Piotr , Wiszniowski Jan , Dziewit Zdzislaw
Published: January 2009

Lightning detection in Poland is performed by means of a PERUN (Safir 3000) system operated by the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management. Poland is also partly covered by a VLF/LF lightning detection system (CLDN, Central Lightning Detection Network). Both sources of lightning data have their limitations resulting from detection technique, limited number of sensors and geographical configuration, with the consequence of shortcomings in the data quality. For this reason, a new network has been installed in Poland and started continuous real-time operation in May 2006. It is LINET that covers entire Poland and is complemented by numerous sensors positioned in surrounding countries. In 2007 additional LINET sensors have been installed in Poland in order to allow exploitation of reduced baselines for efficient achievement of total lightning. In the frame of the COST P18 Action “Physics of Lightning Flash and Its Effects”
another new Polish project started in 2006 related to regional lightning location. At present, the Local Lightning Detection Network (LLDN) undergoes installation in the region of Warsaw. LLDN will consist of six individual stations equipped with E-field antennae and digital recorders synchronized with GPS time signals. The aim of LLDN installation is complement other networks covering region of Warsaw (PERUN, LINET) and to provide an additional source of lightning CG data with high sensitivity in a relatively small area. In the paper are described general characteristics of LINET in Poland, as well as basic characteristics and assumed performance of LLDN, which will start operation in 2008.
Toxoplasmosis in Sheep: A Potential Risk of Infection Among Residents and Farm Workers in Lajes, Brazil
Authors: M. Clementino Milena , R. Barbosa Isabelle , F. Andrade-Neto Valter
Published: January 2009

The Toxoplasma gondii protozoan is prevalent in most areas of the world, causing veterinary and medical impact.
The aim of this study was to make a seroepidemiological report and identify risk factors for human toxoplasmosis
among residents and workers of sheep farms in Lajes, Brazil. For diagnosis, an indirect haemagglutination test was applied;
the seroprevalence was detected. An interview was conducted with each participant, obtaining information on cultural
and hygiene habits, age and environmental variables suspected to affect the risk of T. gondii. The analysis for association
with risk factors did not show significant differences. However, our dates suggest that sheep farmers are at increased
risk for Toxoplasma gondii.
Cross-Clade Recognition of HIV-1 CAp24 by CD4+ T Cells in HIV-1-Infected Individuals in Burkina Faso and Germany
Authors: Böhler Thomas , Mrosek Vanessa , Müller Kerstin , Schnitzler Paul , Hartmann Martin , Ouedraogo Thierry , Coulibaly Boubacar , Sié Ali , Bartonova Vanda , Tebit Denis M , Kräusslich Hans-Georg
Published: January 2009

The presence of antigen-specific cellular immune responses may be an indicator of long-term asymptomatic HIV-1-disease. The detection of cellular immune responses to infection with different subtypes of HIV-1 may be hampered by genetic differences of immunodominant antigens such as the capsid protein CAp24. In Nouna, Burkina Faso, HIV-1 circulating recombinant forms CRF02_AG and CRF06_cpx are the 2 major strains detectable in HIV-1-infected individuals, while subtype B strains prevail in Europe and North America. Amino acid sequences of CAp24 were assessed in blood samples from 10 HIV-1-infected patients in Nouna, Burkina Faso. Production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) in peripheral blood CD4+ lymphocytes in response to recombinant HIV-1 proteins derived from clade B (including CAp24NL4-3) was measured using a modified flow-cytometry-based whole blood short term activation assay (FASTimmune, BDBiosciences). IFN-γ production following stimulation with a whole length CAp24 protein derived from clade B (CAp24NL4-3) was additionally quantified in comparison to a CAp24 protein derived from CRF02_AG (CAp24BD6-15) in 16 HIV-1-infected patients in Heidelberg, Germany. Amino acid sequence identity of CAp24 obtained from patients in Nouna ranged between 86 and 89% when compared to the clade B CAp24NL4-3 consensus sequence, between 90 and 95% when compared to the circulating recombinant form CRF06_CPX consensus sequence, and between 92 and 96% when compared to the CAp24BD6-15 consensus sequence. Significant numbers of HIV-1-specific CD4+ lymphocytes producing IFN-γ were detected in 4 of 10 HIV-1-infected patients. In 7 of 16 patients in Heidelberg, recombinant CAp24BD6-15 stimulated IFN-γ-production in CD4+ lymphocytes to a similar extent as the clade B-derived CAp24NL4-3. Thus, antigen-specific CD4+ lymphocytes from both West African and European patients infected with different strains of HIV-1 show relevant cross-clade recognition of HIV-1 CAp24 in a flow-cytometry-based whole blood short term activation assay.
Contributions of the Ventrolateral Orbital Cortex to Pain-Related Negative Emotion
Authors: Ni Su-Jie , Zhou Dong , Cao Hong , Zhao Zhi-Qi , Peng Yu-Ping , Zhang Yu-Qiu
Published: January 2009

Painful stimuli evoke pain sensation and unpleasant emotional feelings. Recent studies demonstrated that the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and amygdala play a crucial role in pain-related negative emotion using a rat formalininduced conditioned place aversion (F-CPA) model, a nociceptor-driven, associative avoidance-learning assay, which was considered as a direct reflection of negative emotion of pain. In this study, we further revealed the role of the ventrolateral orbital cortex (VLO) in pain-related negative emotion. Electrolytic or chemical lesion of the bilateral VLO abolished FCPA. Interestingly, this lesion affected neither acute formalin-induced two-phase spontaneous nociceptive behaviors nor low-intensity electric foot shock-induced CPA (S-CPA). Furthermore, we showed that formalin nociceptive conditioning induced a persistent (>24 hrs) cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) phosphorylation (pCREB) and an accompanying increase in Fos expression in the bilateral VLO. Re-exposing rats to the nociceptive conditioning context for retrieval of pain experience produced upregulation of pCREB and Fos expression in the bilateral VLO also. These results provided direct evidence indicating that the VLO is required for pain-related aversion, and also suggested a role for CREB phosphorylation in the induction of pain-related aversion and reconsolidation of pain-related aversive memory following pain experience retrieval. Taking the present study together with the previous reports, it is reasonable/advisable to accept the proposal that a neural network of the VLO with the ACC, amygdala and perhaps some other limbic structures contributes to the negative emotion of pain. Thus, a multidisciplinary integrated approach to preventing chronic pain-induced emotional disturbance might be raised.
Experiment and CFD Simulation on Gas Holdup Characteristics in an Internal Loop Reactor with External Liquid Circulation
Authors: Lu Chunxi , Qi Nana , Zhang Kai , Jin Jiaqi , Zhang Hu
Published: January 2009

An external liquid circulation is introduced into a traditional internal loop reactor in order to improve liquid circulation and increase the interface between gas and liquid phases. The effects of superficial gas velocity and external liquid circulation velocity on local and overall gas holdups are explored experimentally and numerically in the loop section of a combined gas-liquid contactor, which consists of a liquid spray, sieve plates and an internal loop with external liquid circulation. Local gas holdup is measured experimentally by a double-sensor conductivity probe. Numerical simulations are conducted in the platform of a commercial software package, ANSYS CFX 10.0. Gas holdup and other information are obtained by solving the governing equations of mass and momentum balances for gas and liquid phases in a hybrid mesh system. Both measured and simulated results indicate that local, section-averaged, and overall gas holdups increase with an increase of the superficial gas velocity. The downcomer tube for circulating external liquid has a significant influence in the gas-distributor and the downcomer-tube action regions rather than in the upper draft-tube and the gas-liquid separation regions. Good agreement between measured and predicted data suggests that CFD simulation together with experimental investigation can be employed to develop novel gas-liquid contactors with a complex geometrical configuration.
Literature Review on Heat Transfer in Two- and Three-Phase Bubble Columns
Authors: Hulet Craig , Clement Patrice , Tochon Patrice , Schweich Daniel , Dromard Nicolas , Anfray Jerome
Published: January 2009

Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS), an exothermic reaction where hydrogen and carbon monoxide synthesis gas are converted to hydrocarbon products, has been under development since the 1930's. The interest in FTS depends on current and perceived future prices of crude oil but is increasingly viewed as an option for exploiting stranded natural gas. Other advantages of FTS hydrocarbons include the absence of sulphur, nitrogen, heavy metal contaminants, low aromatic content and the ability to produce high value middle distillates/fuels. Current interest is directed towards slurry bubble processes  comprising gas, liquid, and solid phases. Industrial slurry phase FTS reactors may range in size from 6  10 m in diameter and upwards of 30 m in height and include multiple internal heat transfer tubes. Such systems offer numerous advantages including high heat transfer rates, good mixing, and ease of online catalyst addition and withdrawal. However, one disadvantage is the complex hydrodynamics associated with slurry bubble columns, which make scale-up difficult. A literature review on heat transfer studies and correlations has been completed focusing on previous experimental setups, the synthesis of the key findings/parameters, and the identification of the necessary criteria required for reactor design and scale-up.The parameters having the most pronounced impact on heat transfer in slurry bubble columns and three-phase fluidized beds are the superficial gas velocity and liquid properties such as viscosity and surface tension, which significantly alter the bubble properties and the column hydrodynamics. The effect of particles is poorly understood and is a complex function of particle diameter and concentration. The experimental results and correlations reported here from the majority of studies are dependent upon the equipment and properties of the three phases studied  resulting in very limited applicability to other systems or for scale-up. Other concerns include the use of relatively low gas velocities, ambient temperature and pressure, relatively large particles, and relatively small columns employed in most studies, which are not relevant to industrial operating conditions. Furthermore, studies involving multiple internals were relatively few. Most columns were only equipped with a single tube or small heat flux probe thereby measuring only the local heat transfer and not taking into account the effect on column hydrodynamics of multiple internals. Of these studies only a few tubes were equipped with heaters (that did not run the entire tube length) and heat flux probes while the remaining probes were inactive.
Alumina Sintering Kiln Flame Image Retrieval Based on ANN and Flame Shape Feature
Authors: Zhang Hongliang , Li Jie , Zou Zhong
Published: January 2009

An alumina sintering rotary kiln flame image retrieval method was put forward based on artificial neural network (ANN) and flame shape features. An effective flame shape descriptor was introduced, based on which the flame image recognitions were carried out using ANN. Then, a flame image retrieval algorithm was designed. Experiments were carried out on the prototype machine with the flame images sampled from an alumina sintering rotary kiln. The results indicate that the shape descriptors can effectively describe the flame shapes and the proposed flame image retrieval method can achieve both high accuracy and efficiency. This method can be of promising theoretical and practical value for alumina sintering rotary kiln management and surveillance.
Sources of Euroscepticism: Utilitarian Interest, Social Distrust, National Identity and Institutional Distrust
Authors: Abts Koen , Heerwegh Dirk , Swyngedouw Marc
Published: January 2009

This article attempts to analyse and improve the individual-level approaches to the study of public Euroscepticism in Belgium. In recent literature, three approaches focusing on instrumental, cultural and political cues can be distinguished. First, the utilitarian approach associates Euroscepticism with economic interests. Second, the cultural approach draws on cultural attitudes and affective identities. Third, the political approach associates support for European integration with political efficacy and institutional trust. Drawing upon Belgian data from the IntUne Project 2007, some interesting conclusions about the sources of Euroscepticism can be derived. The results show that negative evaluations of the egocentric benefits of European membership, social distrust in European fellow citizens and institutional distrust in the EU are the most important determinants of Euroscepticism, while education, national attachment, exclusive identity, actor-oriented distrust, and political inefficacy have a smaller, but significant impact. The popular theses of the objective losers and subjective losers of Europeanization are largely rejected. Only low educated people are more sceptical about Europe, whereas workers have a more positive attitude towards Europe.
Restatements Due to Improper Revenue Recognition: A Neural Networks Perspective
Authors: Ragothaman Srinivasan , Lavin Angeline
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT: The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101 (SEC 1999) in an attempt to curb improper revenue recognition practices. Nonetheless, revenue restatements and the subsequent earnings restatements have continued unabated. Our goal is to contribute to the emerging technologies literature by applying the neural networks methodology to the study of revenue restatements. We also compare the results of the neural network classification with classifications obtained from multiple discriminant analysis (MDA) and logistic regression (Logit) models. Six financial and governance variables were used to train the neural network on a sample of 180 firms, and the model was validated using a holdout sample of 51 additional firms. The results show that the neural network model has superior predictive power for predicting revenue restatement firms when compared to the MDA and Logit models. However, the Logit and MDA models predict nonrevenue restatement firms better. Moreover, when misclassification costs are included, the neural network (NN) model performs the best with the lowest relative misclassification costs.
Does Web Syndication Technology Facilitate Investor Decision Making?
Authors: Cong Yu , Du Hui , Feng Jinjuan
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT: Web syndication is an emerging technology that “feeds” website information to subscribers. It allows Internet users to collect, organize, and view frequently updated information from multiple sources effortlessly. We investigated whether using web syndication technology helps nonprofessional investors acquire and integrate relevant information which has been updated frequently and is from multiple sources when the investors make decisions. We obtained evidence of this new technology's effects using an experiment where subjects visited either a syndicated web page or a nonsyndicated web page and assessed two fictional companies' critical financial ratios and investment perspectives. Our results indicate that individuals who use syndication technology are more effective in acquiring relevant information updated frequently and integrating information for investment decision making than individuals who do not use such technology. The results suggest that web syndication may be used as an information integration tool for nonprofessional investors in assisting their decision making.
The Role of XBRL in Enhanced Business Reporting (EBR)
Authors: Bonsón Enrique , Cortijo Virginia , Escobar Tomas
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper analyzes how XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language) can contribute to EBR (Enhanced Business Reporting) to improve financial reports' transparency. We examine XBRL's technological and organizational advantages that can facilitate the implementation of the EBR model. XBRL, and the consortium associated with it, can help EBR provide greater interaction with users, help companies identify relevant reporting data, and harness technological advances to overcome the weaknesses inherent in traditional business reporting models. EBR and XBRL efforts combined can work effectively to improve the current business reporting model.
Risk and Reliability Formulas for Systems Security under Dempster-Shafer Theory of Belief Functions
Authors: Srivastava Rajendra P. , Li Chan
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper develops comprehensive formulas for assessing the risk and reliability of “Systems Security” under the Dempster-Shafer theory of belief functions, using the Trust Services framework as proposed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA). In addition, we discuss how these formulas can be used for planning and evaluation of “Systems Security” risk under the SysTrust services. The analytical formulas are derived for a tree-structured evidential diagram which is constructed by converting the exact network-structured evidential diagram. The use of an analytical formula eliminates the computational complexities of propagating beliefs in a network and allows the assurance provider to use a simple spreadsheet to combine evidence. We provide theoretical justification and perform sensitivity analyses to show that the analytical formula based on a tree-type evidential diagram is a good approximation of the exact network model under realistic situations. However, as shown theoretically and also through the sensitivity analysis, the analytical formula provides significantly different results when input beliefs are significantly negative. It should be noted that the analytical formula based on the tree model provides a more conservative assessment of information systems risk than the exact network model.
Conceptual Model for Continuous Organizational Auditing with Real Time Analysis and Modern Control Theory
Authors: Santos Carlos , Sousa Pedro , Ferreira Carla , Tribolet José
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT: The important role that has been played by organizational information systems in the maneuvering of organizations, particularly concerning their capacity to continuously adapt to new challenges using real time response, means that great care must be given to their evaluation and validation. Bearing this in mind, a system which has been evaluated and validated will reassure the stakeholders that the organization is trustworthy. The process of evaluating and validating is one of auditing which, in order to be performed according to good practice, should be based on an internal control system. This work presents a conceptual model for continuous organizational auditing using real time analysis and modern control theory.

The main scientific components of this work are as follows: the consistent and coherent design of an internal control system based on modern control theory; the formal verification of the rules that make up the internal control system's specific aims; a conceptual model able to support continuous organizational auditing using real time analysis.
Audit Support System Design and the Declarative Knowledge of Long-Term Users
Authors: Dowling Carlin , Leech Stewart A. , Moroney Robyn
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT: Although audit support systems have been deployed for over a decade, they continue to evolve. Technological advances present audit firms with the ongoing dilemma of deciding the type and extent of decision support to embed within their firm's system. This exploratory study complements the existing literature that has investigated the short-term consequences of providing decision support to auditors by investigating the association between the extent of decision support embedded within the audit support systems of three major international audit firms and the declarative knowledge possessed by long-term users. An experiment was conducted which required auditors, without the aid of their firm's audit support system, to list the key business risks common to clients in an industry familiar to them (hereafter referred to as relevant risks). As predicted, we find that auditors who normally use an audit support system that provides a low level of decision support list more relevant risks. This exploratory study provides preliminary evidence of a long-term consequence of providing decision support. The results will assist audit firms in their continued development of audit support systems.
Simulated Physician Learning Intervention to Improve Safety and Quality of Diabetes Care: A Randomized Trial
Authors: O'Connor Patrick J. , Sperl-Hillen JoAnn M. , Johnson Paul E. , Rush William A. , Asche Stephen E. , Dutta Pradyumina , Biltz George R.
Published: January 2009

OBJECTIVE

To assess two physician learning interventions designed to improve safety and quality of diabetes care delivered by primary care physicians (PCPs).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This group randomized clinical trial included 57 consenting PCPs and their 2,020 eligible adult patients with diabetes. Physicians were randomized to no intervention (group A), a simulated case-based physician learning intervention (group B), or the same simulated case-based learning intervention with physician opinion leader feedback (group C). Dependent variables included A1C values, LDL cholesterol values, pharmacotherapy intensification rates in patients not at clinical goals, and risky prescribing events.

RESULTS

Groups B and C had substantial reductions in risky prescribing of metformin in patients with renal impairment (P = 0.03). Compared with groups A and C, physicians in group B achieved slightly better glycemic control (P = 0.04), but physician intensification of oral glucose-lowering medications was not affected by interventions (P = 0.41). Lipid management improved over time (P < 0.001) but did not differ across study groups (P = 0.67).

CONCLUSIONS

A simulated, case-based learning intervention for physicians significantly reduced risky prescribing events and marginally improved glycemic control in actual patients. The addition of opinion leader feedback did not improve the learning intervention. Refinement and further development of this approach is warranted.