bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Central Angiotensin I Increases Swallowing Activity and Oxytocin Release in the Near-Term Ovine Fetus
Authors: Shi Lijun , Mao Caiping , Zeng Fanxing , Zhang Lubo , Xu Zhice
Published: November 2011

The brain renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role in hydromineral and neuroendocrine balance. Although previous studies showed that exogenous angiotensin (Ang) II increased dipsogenic and vasopressin responses in near-term fetuses, little is known about the functional development of fetal endogenous brain RAS in the regulation of body fluid homeostasis. To determine the functional development of the central angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in utero, we investigated the electrocortical (ECoG) activity, swallowing activity, oxytocin (OT) release, and c-fos expression in response to intracerebroventricular Ang I administration in the near-term fetal lamb. Ang I did not change fetal low-voltage (LV) and high-voltage (HV) ECoG temporal distributions, but increased fetal swallowing activity during LV ECoG (1.0 ± 0.1 to 3.5 ± 0.4 swallows/min). Additionally, Ang I evoked an increase in c-fos-immunoreactivity in putative dipsogenic centers, including the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei of the hypothalamus, accompanied by an increase in fetal plasma OT levels. The expression of c-fos was demonstrated in OT neurons in the hypothalamus. The Ang I-mediated increase in fetal swallowing and plasma OT was inhibited by captopril. These results demonstrate the functional development of the fetal brain ACE system in the last trimester of gestation, which plays an important role in the RAS-mediated dipsogenic response and OT release in the regulation of body fluid homeostasis.
Brain Alterations and Mini-Mental State Examination in Patients with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy: Voxel-Based Investigations Using 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Takahashi Ryuichi , Ishii Kazunari , Kakigi Tatsuya , Yokoyama Kazumasa , Mori Etsuro , Murakami Takamichi
Published: November 2011

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to compare differences in morphological and functional changes in brain regions in individual patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and correlate their Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score with anatomy and function using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET). Methods: Sixteen PSP patients and 20 age-matched healthy volunteers underwent FDG-PET and 3-dimensional MRI. Gray matter, white matter and metabolic activity were compared between patients and normal controls. In addition, possible correlations between the MMSE score and brain function/anatomy were examined. Results: The PSP group had reduced cerebral glucose metabolism, and lower gray and white matter volumes in the frontal lobes and midbrain compared with normal controls. In PSP subjects, the metabolic changes observed in the PET scans were greater than the loss in gray and white matter observed in the MRI scans. The MMSE scores were positively correlated with volume and FDG uptake in the frontal lobe. Conclusion: FDG-PET is a more effective tool in the diagnosis of PSP than MRI. Atrophy and hypometabolism in the frontal lobe are as important as in the basal midbrain for differentiating PSP patients who primarily exhibit cognitive dysfunction from normal controls.
Dendritic Cells and Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns: Endogenous Danger Signals Linking Innate and Adaptive Immunity
Authors: Nace Gary , Evankovich John , Eid Raymond , Tsung Allan
Published: November 2011

Dendritic cells (DCs) are potent antigen-presenting cells critical in regulating the adaptive immune response. The role of DCs is dichotomous; they may both present antigens and the appropriate stimulatory molecules to initiate an adaptive immune response, or they may induce tolerance and release anti-inflammatory signals. The activation of immature DCs, required for the expression of the necessary costimulatory T cell molecules, is dependent on pattern recognition receptors. In addition to the pathogen-derived ligands of pattern recognition receptors, several damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) have recently been shown to interact with DCs and dramatically affect their ultimate function. The complex interplay of DAMPs on DCs is clinically important, with implications for transplantation, tumor immunity, autoimmunity, chronic inflammation and other conditions of sterile inflammation such as ischemia reperfusion injury. In this review, we will focus on the role of DAMPs in DC function.
Activation of Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription-3 by a Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma Agonist Contributes to Neuroprotection in the Peri-Infarct Region After Ischemia in Oophorectomized Rats
Authors: Kinouchi Tomoya , Kitazato Keiko T. , Shimada Kenji , Yagi Kenji , Tada Yoshiteru , Matsushita Nobuhisa , Sumiyoshi Manabu , Satomi Junichiro , Kageji Teruyoshi , Nagahiro Shinji
Published: November 2011

Background and Purpose—

The role of the phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (p-STAT3) after cerebral ischemia by the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) agonist pioglitazone (PGZ) remains controversial. Whether the increase in p-STAT3 by estrogen is mediated by the estrogen receptor α is also obscure. We examined the role of p-STAT3, PPARγ, and estrogen receptor α against ischemic brain damage after PGZ treatment.

Methods—

Female Wistar rats subjected or not subjected to bilateral oophorectomy were injected with 1.0 or 2.5 mg/kg PGZ 2 days, 1 day, and 1 hour before 90-minute middle cerebral artery occlusion–reperfusion and compared with vehicle-control rats.

Results—

The cortical infarct size was larger in ovariectomized than in nonovarietomized rats; it was reduced by PGZ treatment. Inversely with the reduction of the infarct size, PPARγ, and p-STAT3 but not estrogen receptor α in the peri-infarct area were increased in PGZ-treated compared with vehicle-control rats. The increase in PPARγ and p-STAT3 was associated with the transactivation of antiapoptotic and survival genes and the reduction of caspase-3 in this area. Inhibitors of PPARγ or STAT3 abolished the PGZ-induced neuroprotection and the increase in p-STAT3. More importantly, p-STAT3 increased by PGZ was bound to PPARγ and the complex translocated to the nucleus to dock to the response element through p-STAT3.

Conclusions—

Our findings suggest that the activation in the peri-infarct region of p-STAT3 and PPARγ by PGZ is essential for neuroprotection after ischemia and that PGZ may be of benefit even in postmenopausal stroke patients.
A Characterization of the Present-Day Arctic Atmosphere in CCSM4
Authors: de Boer Gijs , Chapman William , Kay Jennifer E. , Medeiros Brian , Shupe Matthew D. , Vavrus Steve , Walsh John
Published: November 2011

Simulation of key features of the Arctic atmosphere in the Community Climate System Model, version 4 (CCSM4) is evaluated against observational and reanalysis datasets for the present-day (1981–2005). Surface air temperature, sea level pressure, cloud cover and phase, precipitation and evaporation, the atmospheric energy budget, and lower-tropospheric stability are evaluated. Simulated surface air temperatures are found to be slightly too cold when compared with the 40-yr ECMWF Re-Analysis (ERA-40). Spatial patterns and temporal variability are well simulated. Evaluation of the sea level pressure demonstrates some large biases, most noticeably an under simulation of the Beaufort High during spring and autumn. Monthly Arctic-wide biases of up to 13 mb are reported. Cloud cover is underpredicted for all but summer months, and cloud phase is demonstrated to be different from observations. Despite low cloud cover, simulated all-sky liquid water paths are too high, while ice water path was generally too low. Precipitation is found to be excessive over much of the Arctic compared to ERA-40 and the Global Precipitation Climatology Project (GPCP) estimates. With some exceptions, evaporation is well captured by CCSM4, resulting in P − E estimates that are too high. CCSM4 energy budget terms show promising agreement with estimates from several sources. The most noticeable exception to this is the top of the atmosphere (TOA) fluxes that are found to be too low while surface fluxes are found to be too high during summer months. Finally, the lower troposphere is found to be too stable when compared to ERA-40 during all times of year but particularly during spring and summer months.
A thermosetting phenolic film and its application in the resin film infusion
Authors: Bin Liang , Lixin Chen , Jianna Dong , Huixin Zhao , Fengfei Liang
Published: November 2011

This article develops an alternative phenolic resin (PF) film, designated PFA (modified PF), made by modifying PF with thermoplastic. Ithas a good film-formability and shelf life of 60 days at ambient temperature. The film can keep a viscosity of less than 3000 mPa·s at 110°C for 68 min, which makes the resin easily impregnate the fiber preform thoroughly in resin film infusion (RFI) process. The tensile strength and modulus, the interlaminar shear strength, the flexible strength, and modulus of PFA laminate prepared by RFI are superior to those of PF laminate prepared by prepreg.
Long-term durability prediction models for GFRP bars in concrete environment
Authors: Davalos Julio F , Chen Yi , Ray Indrajit
Published: November 2011

This article presents a durability study of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars within concrete environment and provides recommendations for effective accelerated ageing methods, data reduction and validation, and formulation of master curves for long-term predictions. Concrete beams reinforced with GFRP bars were immersed in tap water inside temperature-controlled tanks. Sustained load was applied to beam samples, and elevated temperatures were used to accelerate the ageing of GFRP bars. After exposure, GFRP bars were tested for residual tensile strength, which was considered as a measure of the durability performance of the specimens. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images were used to evaluate the microstructural changes of conditioned specimens. Short-term (up to 270 days) results showed that compared to alkalinity and low sustained load, moisture and elevated temperature played much more important roles in accelerating environmental attack to GFRP bars. Based on the short-term test results, the dominant degradation mechanism for GFRP bars in concrete was found as the deterioration of fiber/matrix interface. A degradation model based on Arrhenius concept and prediction procedures are given, and correlations with other studies and field data are provided. The tensile strength retentions for GFRP bars in saturated concrete subjected to sustained load were predicted. It was found that degradation rates decreased rapidly, but tensile strength retentions at different exposure temperatures converge to a constant value with the increase of exposure time. Beyond fiber-matrix debonding, there is a possibility that other degradation mechanisms such as fiber corrosion may start to dominate the deterioration process of GFRP bars with time.
Time-dependent fracture toughness of fumed silica/epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Kanchanomai Chaosuan
Published: November 2011

The influences of loading rate (0.1–1000 mm/min) and fumed-silica weight fraction (0–3 wt%) on mechanical properties and fracture toughness of fumed silica/epoxy nanocomposites have been investigated. The fracture toughness ( KIQ) was influenced by loading rate and amount of fumed-silica particles, i.e., they increased with decreasing loading rate and increasing fumed-silica weight fraction. The increase of fumed-silica weight fraction enhanced the mobility of polymer chains, reduced the glass-transition temperature, and improved the ductility and fracture toughness of the present nanocomposites. Localized-inelastic deformation (shear lip, stretched zone, crazing, and crack blunting) and plane-stress condition at crack tip were dominating mechanisms at low loading rate (0.1 mm/min). On the other hand, less localized-inelastic deformation and plane-strain condition at crack tip were dominating mechanisms at high loading rates (10–1000 mm/min).
Hollowing Out Neighbourhood Governance? Rescaling Revitalisation in Baltimore and Bristol
Authors: Davies Jonathan S. , Pill Madeleine
Published: November 2011

The neighbourhood has been a prominent terrain for revitalisation in recent times, and also for studies by scholars debating the significance of networked governance as the means of public service co-ordination, democratic voice or social control. This study of the governance of neighbourhoods in Baltimore and Bristol suggests that there may be a need to rethink these perspectives, as Bristol begins to converge with Baltimore on the terrain of exclusionary city governance, neighbourhood disinvestment and self-help. If the study is representative, it may point to a retreat from neighbourhood governance and the possibility that, in the era of austerity, economically ‘unviable’ neighbourhoods face abandonment.
The Emergence of Embedded Relations and Group Formation in Networks of Competition
Authors: Thye Shane R. , Lawler Edward J. , Yoon Jeongkoo
Published: November 2011

This study examines how and when small networks of self-interested agents generate a group tie or affiliation at the network level. A group affiliation is formed when actors (a) perceive themselves as members of a group and (b) share resources with each other despite an underlying competitive structure. We apply a concept of structural cohesion to small networks of exchange and identify two dimensions of such networks that foster a group affiliation: the network-wide potential for inclusion in exchanges and the inequality of structural power. These structural properties are theorized to generate positive emotions and cognitions that promote collectively oriented behavior toward others in the exchange network, even if such behavior runs counter to individual self-interest. We theorize and test how and when such structural properties give rise to embedded social relations, thereby forging connections between micro theories of exchange and macro theories of social embeddedness.
Changes in Central Apnea Index following Pediatric Adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Baldassari Cristina M. , Kepchar Jessica , Bryant Lucas , Beydoun Hind , Choi Sukgi
Published: November 2011

Objectives

To determine if there are changes in the central apnea index (CAI) when pediatric patients undergo adenotonsillectomy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Two tertiary children’s hospitals.

Subjects and Methods

Children between 1 and 16 years of age who underwent adenotonsillectomy for OSA and had both preoperative and postoperative full‐night polysomnography (PSG) with CAI greater than 1 on preoperative PSG were eligible for inclusion. Central apnea was defined as the absence of both inspiratory effort and chest wall movement lasting longer than 20 seconds. Criteria for diagnosis of central sleep apnea (CSA) was CAI greater than 1.

Results

A total of 101 children with OSA had preoperative and postoperative PSG. Fifteen of these patients had a preoperative CAI greater than 1. The mean age was 67.7 months (SD, 62.7 months). The CAI ranged from 1.1 to 11.1. The mean preoperative CAI was 3.9 (SD, 2.9), while the mean postoperative CAI was 1.9 (SD, 4.8). There was significant improvement (P =. 008) of the CAI following adenotonsillectomy. Ninety percent of subjects with mild CSA (CAI between 1 and 5) had postoperative resolution of their disease. There was also significant improvement (P =. 004) in the obstructive apnea hypopnea index (AHI), with the mean preoperative AHI of 22.8 (SD, 19.8) decreasing to an AHI of 5.5 (SD, 6.5) postoperatively.

Conclusions

Children with OSA and mild CSA on preoperative PSG showed significant improvement in CAI following adenotonsillectomy. Future studies are needed to determine the clinical significance of CSA in children with OSA and to identify treatment strategies.
Surgical Parathyroidectomy versus Cinacalcet Therapy
Authors: Ghani Assia , Baxter Prudence
Published: November 2011

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the clinical effectiveness of surgery with calcimimetics as treatment strategies for managing the biochemical abnormalities that characterize secondary hyperparathyroidism (2HPTH), resistant to optimal conventional therapy in patients with end‐stage renal failure (ESRF).

Study Design

A historical cohort study.

Setting

Maxillofacial Department, Morriston Hospital, Swansea, United Kingdom.

Subjects and Methods

Fifty‐four patients with 2HPTH resistant to optimal conventional medical management were studied. One cohort of 20 patients was treated with surgical parathyroidectomy, the other cohort of 34 patients with cinacalcet. Serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) and bone profile were measured before and at monthly intervals after intervention.

Results

Both cohorts were comparable in their demographic profile, pretreatment comorbidities, baseline PTH, and bone profile. In all 20 surgical patients, the 1‐week postoperative PTH had decreased by 97% (P <. 001); in the medical cohort after 4 months of daily cinacalcet, the PTH decreased by 48% (P <. 001) from baseline. This reduction was maintained at 18 months. In all but 1 surgical patient, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) decreased to normal levels, whereas on cinacalcet, there was no statistically significant reduction. Patients who underwent parathyroidectomy had a more significant decrease in PTH (P <. 001) and ALP (P <. 0014) than did patients on cinacalcet therapy. All patients managed surgically who complained of preoperative symptoms of pruritis and bone pain expressed complete resolution or significant improvement after parathyroidectomy (P <. 001, P <. 003, respectively).

Conclusion

Surgery was superior to “medical” parathyroidectomy in controlling PTH and ALP.
Political Participation and Social Capital Among Mexicans and Mexican Americans in Central Illinois
Authors: Albarracin Julia , Valeva Anna
Published: November 2011

This study tested the influence of bridging and bonding social capital in political participation while controlling for sociodemographic and psychological factors among Mexicans and Mexican Americans in Illinois. Bridging social capital significantly predicted two types of participation. Participants who felt their lives were linked to those of Anglo-Americans and attended functions with members of this group were more likely to contact a public official. In addition, those who attended functions with Anglo-Americans were also more likely to work for or contribute to a political candidate. Bonding social capital significantly predicted attending a public meeting or demonstration. Those who felt more linked to other Latinos in the country were less likely to participate, but those who had a close experience with discrimination were more likely to do so. Overall, findings showed that an understanding of the different aspects of social capital is necessary to decipher the participation puzzle.
Effects of Adolescent Childbearing on Latino Siblings
Authors: East Patricia L. , Slonim Ashley , Horn Emily J. , Reyes Barbara T.
Published: November 2011

Latinos have had the highest teenage birthrate of any racial or ethnic group in the United States for the past 15 years, yet little is known about how Latino families are affected by a teenage daughter’s childbearing. In-depth interviews were conducted with 32 Mexican American younger siblings of parenting teens to discern how their sister’s childbearing had affected them and their families. The most commonly reported negative effects were increased family stress and conflict, more arguments with the parenting older sister, and less time spent with family members. Regarding benefits, all youth described a loving bond with their sister’s baby, two thirds described their family becoming closer, and 81% felt closer to their older sister. The implications of these effects for Mexican American families are discussed.
On the benefit of magnetic magnesium nanocarrier in cardiovascular toxicity of aluminum phosphide
Authors: Baeeri Maryam , Shariatpanahi Marjan , Baghaei Amir , Ghasemi-Niri Seyedeh Farnaz , Mohammadi Hamidreza , Mohammadirad Azadeh , Hassani Shokoufeh , Bayrami Zahra , Hosseini Asieh , Rezayat Seyed Mahdi , Abdollahi Mohammad
Published: November 2011

The present study was designed to determine the effect of a new 25Mg2+-carrying nanoparticle (25MgPMC16) on energy depletion, oxidative stress, and electrocardiographic (ECG) parameters on heart tissue of the rats poisoned by aluminum phosphide (AlP). 25MgPMC16 at doses of 0.025, 0.05, and 0.1 median lethal dose (LD50 = 896 mg/kg) was administered intravenously (iv) 30 min after a single intragastric administration of AlP (0.25 LD50). Sodium bicarbonate (Bicarb; 2 mEq/kg, iv) was used as the standard therapy. After anesthesia, the animals were rapidly connected to an electronic cardiovascular monitoring device for monitoring of ECG, blood pressure (BP), and heart rate (HR). Later lipid peroxidation, antioxidant power, ATP/ADP ratio, and Mg concentration in the heart were evaluated. Results indicated that after AlP administration, BP and HR decreased while R-R duration increased. 25MgPMC16 significantly increased the BP and HR at all doses used. We found a considerable increase in antioxidant power, Mg level in the plasma and the heart and a reduction in lipid peroxidation and ADP/ATP ratio at various doses of 25MgPMC16, but 25MgPMC16-0.025 + Bicarb was the most effective combination therapy. The results of this study support that 25MgPMC16 can increase heart energy by active transport of Mg inside the cardiac cells.25MgPMC16 seems ameliorating AlP-induced toxicity and cardiac failure necessitating further studies.
Antiapoptotic and proliferative activity of curcumin on ovarian follicles in mice exposed to whole body ionizing radiation
Authors: Aktas Cevat , Kanter Mehmet , Kocak Zafer
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiapoptotic and proliferative activity of curcumin (Cur) on the ovarian follicles in mice exposed to whole body ionizing radiation (Rd). The mice were exposed to 8.3 gray whole body Rd, and Cur groups were given as a daily dose of 100 mg/kg of Cur for 10 days (10 days before Rd). The ovaries were collected 3 and 12 h after irradiation. To date, no such studies have been performed on antiapoptotic and proliferative activity of Cur on the ovarian follicles in mice exposed to whole body Rd. Analysis of mice ovary after exposure to Rd by terminal-deoxynucleotidyl-transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling showed that there were apoptotic cells both in the follicular wall and the antrum, and that the number of follicles showing early atresic features was high 3 h after Rd. On the other hand, analysis of mice ovary 12 h after exposure to Rd showed that the number of follicles containing apoptotic cells with advanced atresic features was significantly higher when compared to the 3-h Rd exposure group. The proliferating cell nuclear antigen -positive granulosa cells were decreased in association with follicular atresia. The groups given treatment were observed to have some benefit from Cur against the damage caused by Rd. The results of this study demonstrate that Cur prevents follicular atresia in Rd-induced apoptosis in ovarian follicles.
Transmission of vibration and energy through layered and jointed plates subjected to shock excitation
Authors: Xiao Huifang , Shao Yimin , Mechefske Chris K
Published: November 2011

In this article, the vibration and energy transmission characteristics at the multiple interfaces of layered and jointed plates associated with friction are studied as a function of the shock loading amplitude using the established ‘sphere-joint assembled multi-layered plates’ model. The dynamic responses at the multiple interfaces under shock excitation are calculated using finite element analysis. The transmissions of vibration and energy through the multiple interfaces are characterized by the defined vibration and energy transmission ratios. Results show that the acceleration amplitudes at different interfaces increase nonlinearly with the shock amplitude and they are approximated by a third-order polynomial function. The acceleration amplitude nonlinearly decreases along the transmitting interfaces and the maximum attenuation occurs between the first and second transmitting interfaces. A minimum vibration transmission ratio is observed for the range of shock amplitude considered and the value of shock amplitude leading to the minimum is identical for different transmitting interfaces. It is also shown that the energy transmission ratio exhibits a nonlinear behaviour similar to that of the vibration transmission ratio. The expression for determining the shock amplitude resulting in peak energy transmission ratio at the input interface is also presented. Experimental validation is performed, which shows good agreement with numerical results.
Experimental investigation on a two-stage CO2 compressor with high back pressure
Authors: Qi Zhaogang , Yang Jun , Chen Jiangping , Zhang Haifeng , Zhang Li
Published: November 2011

In this article, two samples of two-stage rolling piston CO2 compressors with and without intercooler are developed and experimentally studied. These CO2 compressors are high back-pressure compressors, which mean the pressure inside compressor shell is the discharge pressure of the second stage. A test rig was designed to measure the performance and efficiency of this compressor. The test results show that the suction vapor temperature at the second stage inlet pipe has few influences on the performance and efficiency of the first compressor sample with intercooler. The volumetric efficiency linearly decreases with the increase of compression ratio of the suction and discharge pressure, and the volumetric efficiency can maintain in a relative constant range during a wide compression ratio changes in this high back-pressure design. There exists an optimum compression ratio for each suction pressure at the first stage, where the compressor isentropic efficiency is maximum. A generalized volumetric efficiency correlation for two-stage CO2 rolling piston compressor as a function of compression ratio is proposed and it can describe 100% of the test data within ±5.0% with a mean deviation of 1.7%. This would be helpful as a guide for designing such type compressor.
Determination of three-dimensional joint loading within the lower extremities in snowboarding
Authors: Krüger Andreas , McAlpine Paul , Borrani Fabio , Edelmann-Nusser Jürgen
Published: November 2011

In the biomechanical literature only a few studies are available focusing on the determination of joint loading within the lower extremities in snowboarding. These studies are limited to analysis in a restricted capture volume due to the use of optical video-based systems. To overcome this restriction the aim of the present study was to develop a method to determine net joint moments within the lower extremities in snowboarding for complete measurement runs. An experienced snowboarder performed several runs equipped with two custom-made force plates as well as a full-body inertial measurement system. A rigid, multi-segment model was developed to describe the motion and loads within the lower extremities. This model is based on an existing lower-body model and designed to be run by the OpenSim software package. Measured kinetic and kinematic data were imported into the OpenSim program and inverse dynamic calculations were performed. The results illustrate the potential of the developed method for the determination of joint loadings within the lower extremities for complete measurement runs in a real snowboarding environment. The calculated net joint moments of force are reasonable in comparison to the data presented in the literature. A good reliability of the method seems to be indicated by the low data variation between different turns. Due to the unknown accuracy of this method the application for inter-individual studies as well as studies of injury mechanisms may be limited. For intra-individual studies comparing different snowboarding techniques as well as different snowboard equipment the method seems to be beneficial. The validity of the method needs to be studied further.
Finite-element analysis for magnetic resonance image artifact evaluation
Authors: Montesinos César AF , Tse Zion TH , Chan Yum J , Elhawary Haytham , Rea Marc , Hamed Abbi , Young Ian , Lamperth Michael
Published: November 2011

The static magnetic field of a magnetic resonance imaging scanner can be distorted by the presence of materials, perturbing the spatial encoding process in magnetic resonance imaging and often resulting in image artifacts. The relationship between the image artifact size and magnetic susceptibility of the material specimen is of interest to engineers for the design of devices that are to be compatible with the imaging volume of the scanner. In this study, a finite-element method was used to simulate the distorted magnetic field of samples with different susceptibilities. With the knowledge of the external- and self- magnetic field interactions, a Lorentz correction was applied to compute the magnetic field deviation. The simulated results were then validated by the corresponding experimental magnetic resonance images.
Local Jekyll and Global Hyde
Authors: Miellet Sébastien , Caldara Roberto , Schyns Philippe G.
Published: November 2011

The main concern in face-processing research is to understand the processes underlying the identification of faces. In the study reported here, we addressed this issue by examining whether local or global information supports face identification. We developed a new methodology called “ iHybrid.” This technique combines two famous identities in a gaze-contingent paradigm, which simultaneously provides local, foveated information from one face and global, complementary information from a second face. Behavioral face-identification performance and eye-tracking data showed that the visual system identified faces on the basis of either local or global information depending on the location of the observer’s first fixation. In some cases, a given observer even identified the same face using local information on one trial and global information on another trial. A validation in natural viewing conditions confirmed our findings. These results clearly demonstrate that face identification is not rooted in a single, or even preferred, information-gathering strategy.
Do subfossil Cladocera and chydorid ephippia disentangle Holocene climate trends?
Authors: Nevalainen Liisa , Luoto Tomi P. , Kultti Seija , Sarmaja-Korjonen Kaarina
Published: November 2011

We used sedimentary records of Cladocera and chydorid (Chydoridae) ephippia to reconstruct Holocene climate trends from Lake Arapisto in southern Finland. The quantitative temperature record ( TJulyCla) inferred from subfossil Cladocera was compared with a previously published pollen-based mean annual temperature reconstruction ( TAnn) from the same lake. Furthermore, proportions of total chydorid ephippia (TCE), indicating proportions of asexual and sexual reproduction, were examined from the sediment core to provide supplementary data. The TJulyCla record showed a consistent trend of slowly rising July temperatures (from 12–13°C to ~15°C) during the early Holocene until ~9500 cal. BP and indicated slightly higher temperatures than prior (~16°C) during the Holocene thermal maximum (HTM) at ~7000–4000 cal. BP. The TCE record was strongly similar to the TJulyCla reconstruction during the Holocene. It suggested that chydorids would have reproduced predominantly sexually (higher TCE) under environmentally unfavorable periods (early Holocene) and some other occasions, and used mainly asexual reproduction mode under periods of stable environmental conditions (HTM). The monotony of the Cladocera-based reconstruction, when compared with the previously available pollen-based TAnn record and other reference material from the adjacent region, suggests that it was partly hampered by other forcing factors more important than temperature, such as major food-web changes or adaptation ability of cladoceran species.
Antinuclear and antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Szmyrka-Kaczmarek M , Pokryszko-Dragan A , Pawlik B , Gruszka E , Korman L , Podemski R , Wiland P , Szechinski J
Published: November 2011

The prevalence of autoantibodies in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and their clinical associations differ between various studies. This study investigated antiphospholipid and antinuclear antibodies in 85 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) with regard to their association with demographic features, MS specific clinical features and symptoms of connective tissue diseases. Autoantibodies tested included antinuclear antibodies (ANA) with their specificities and anticardiolipin (aCL) and anti-beta-2-glycoprotein I (anti-β2GPI) antibodies.

Antinuclear antibodies were more prevalent in MS patients than in controls (63.5% vs. 3.3%; p < 0.01) and in 19% of patients specific antinuclear antibodies were detected. Anti-β2GPI IgM antibodies were more frequent in MS patients than in the control group (20% vs. 3.3%; p < 0.05). The frequency of anticardiolipin antibodies did not differ between MS patients and controls.

MS patients seropositive for ANA and extractable nuclear antigens (ENA) had significantly shorter disease duration than seronegative patients ( p < 0.05) and a lower disability score (Expanded Disability Status Score; EDSS) ( p < 0.05). Anti-β2GPI antibodies were more frequent in patients with secondary progressive MS (SP-MS) and specific ANA antibodies were more frequent in patients with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) ( p < 0.05). The presence of autoantibodies was not associated with the predominant site of neurological involvement or the clinical features of connective tissue diseases.
Efficiency of Brand Placement in an International Film
Authors: Khalbous Slim , Maazoul Meriem
Published: November 2011

Product and brand placement arouses a particular interest at the announcers. However the massive use of brands in international programmes incites us to wonder about the effect of the local socio-cultural context on the efficiency of this creative technique. This research presents, first an explanatory abstract frame of the influence of the local context variables and the variables of programming on the recall of the placement; and second an empirical validation realized in two phases. First of all, a qualitative analysis of contents by experts; then a quantitative study by experimentation realized with 150 individuals. The results show that, globally the effect of the local context on the memorization of the placement is direct and that the recall of the placed brands depends on attitudes towards the spoken language, on social interactions and some characteristics of the audience.
Mourning becomes Electronic(a)
Authors: Bhattacharya Saradindu
Published: November 2011

This essay examines online representations of 9/11 within the context of contemporary cultures of public mourning and memorialization. Based on the study of visual as well as textual material from 9/11 memorial websites, this essay argues that such online representations effect a spatial and temporal telescoping of the event by calling upon a global audience to participate in the collective acts of recollecting, archiving and mourning the loss that occurred at the epicentre, Ground Zero. It further argues that the constant circulation of ‘signs’ from the actual site of the event in the ‘virtual’ world turns 9/11 into a chronotope and unites the users into an emotionally responsive, affective community of witnesses.
Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: MacLure Maggie
Published: November 2011

The article interrogates the notion of “the ruins” and its cognates (rupture, loss, failure, etc.) as productively destructive figures for postfoundational methodology and wonders how much damage has actually been done. Hoping for ruins, have scholars merely produced a picturesque gloss on the same old Enlightenment edifice? The author finds some promise in Deleuze’s notion of the stutter, using this to look at what happens when the body surfaces in language. The author suggests that attention to the bodily entanglements of language, which qualitative method generally prefers to forget, can be put to work to perform a particular form of productive ruin commended by Deleuze—namely, the ruin of representation.
Longing to be Langston
Authors: Callier Durell M.
Published: November 2011

This article is an autoethnodrama, which originally began as a workshop piece coming to fruition as an enacted staged reading at the University of Illinois during Fall 2011. As an ethnodrama, the article explores the author’s educational journey, pivoting around one of his fondest childhood memories reciting a Langston Hughes poem. Interwoven throughout the piece are other notable local, and global events, which occurred throughout the author’s life. Memories of reciting Langston Hughes, and his poem “Mother to Son” act as a fulcrum, moving the text from the “I” singular to the “I” universal/plural. Utilizing the methodology of autoethnodrama and other performative based methods—inclusive of but not limited to poetry, framing, and dialogue—the article reimagines and recovers the individuals’ relationship to him or herself, his or her community, and to the society at large. Through acknowledging and facing trauma, the article offers for both its author and the reader a chance for recovery through restoring healing and the wholeness of the individual, amending minority absences from educational practices, and envisioning a more just society.
Eight Contentions for an Educational Future
Authors: Stronach Ian , Clarke John
Published: November 2011

This article considers 8 critical hypotheses that circumscribe the development of U.K. education in the 21st century. They all derive directly or indirectly from the “Great Recession” and have radical implications for any notion of a “knowledge economy” and the nature of educational professionalism. The authors conclude that neither a “scientific capitalism” nor its socialist equivalent provide a basis for future thinking and advocate a new beginning on the basis of critical qualitative thinking in relation to both education and the economy.
Evidence for a General Factor Model of ADHD in Adults
Authors: Gibbins Christopher , Toplak Maggie E. , Flora David B. , Weiss Margaret D. , Tannock Rosemary
Published: November 2011

Objective: To examine factor structures of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.) symptoms of ADHD in adults. Method: Two sets of models were tested: (a) models with inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity as separate but correlated latent constructs and (b) hierarchical general factor models with a general factor for all symptoms and separate specific factors for inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. Participants were 751 adults with ADHD. Two models with correlated factors and two general factor models of ADHD symptoms were tested. Results: The general factor model provided a better fit of the data than the correlated models. The general factor model with one general and three (inattention, motoric, and verbal hyperactivity/impulsivity) specific factors best accounted for the adults’ symptoms. Conclusion: These results suggest a unitary component to ADHD symptoms as well as dimensional specific factors. The replication of a general factor in adults suggests continuity of symptom presentation from childhood into adulthood. Clinical implications are discussed.
Penal tourism in Argentina: Bridging Foucauldian and neo-Durkheimian perspectives
Authors: Welch Michael , Macuare Melissa
Published: November 2011

In theoretical criminology, scholars continue to debate the significance of power-based perspectives in the face of semiotics and vice versa. Among the problems created by ‘taking sides’ is the missed opportunity that would allow for the synthesis of instrumentalist and culturalist work. Recognizing the merits of both perspectives, this project explores penal tourism in Argentina in ways that reveal key forms of state power alongside important cultural signs, symbols, and messages. In particular, our case study of the Argentine Penitentiary Museum in Buenos Aires delivers a thick description of its collection so as to bridge Foucault’s insights on systematic penal regimes with Durkheim’s socio-religious concepts: pollution; the sacred; the mythological; and the cult of the individual.
Punishment and the body in the ‘old’ and ‘new’ South Africa: A story of punitivist humanism
Authors: Super Gail
Published: November 2011

This paper analyses official discourse about punishment in South Africa, from 1976 to 2004. It frames punishment as a form of governance which is both connected to, and separate from, the Anglo/American/European examples that are generally referred to in the literature. The shift from corporal and capital punishment to the use of long-term imprisonment is discussed within a framework that emphasizes how both the apartheid and post-apartheid state explained and attempted to justify punishment policies during times of great upheaval and change. Penality under apartheid was a complex entity, and the punishment regime under the Nationalist Party government was starting to reform during the period analyzed. This liberalization was accompanied by a lengthening of terms of imprisonment, a trend that has continued in the ‘new’ South Africa. The prison in post-apartheid South Africa speaks to both humanism and punitivism. This duality has contributed to its enduring nature and endless capacity to reform.
Influence of ramiprilat and losartan on ischemia reperfusion injury in rat hearts
Authors: Safari Fatemeh , Hajizadeh Sohrab , Shekarforoush Shahnaz , Bayat Gholamreza , Foadoddini Mohsen , Khoshbaten Ali
Published: November 2011

Hypothesis/introduction: Our aim was to investigate whether a non-hypotensive dose of ramiprilat and losartan has myocardial protective effects during myocardial ischemia/reperfusion in vivo.

Materials and methods: Three groups of rats were given 10 mg/kg per day of losartan for one (L-1W), four (L-4W) or 10 (L-10W) weeks. Another three groups were given 50 µg/kg per day of ramiprilat for one (R-1W), four (R-4W) or 10 (R-10W) weeks. The animals underwent 30 min of left anterior descending artery occlusion and subsequent reperfusion for 120 min.

Results: Myocardial infarct size (IS) was reduced in R-1W (28.4 ± 6.3%, p < 0.001), R-4W (27.8 ± 7.4, p < 0.001), L-4W (31.8 ± 6%, p < 0.05) and L-10W (25.3 ± 5.7, p < 0.001) groups compared with a saline group (48.3 ± 7.8%). A significant reduction in the number of ventricular ectopic beats (VEBs) was noted in groups R-1W (209 ± 41, p < 0.01), R-4W (176 ± 39, p < 0.01), L-4W (215 ± 52, p < 0.05) and L-10W (191 ± 61, p < 0.01 vs. saline 329 ± 48). The incidence of irreversible ventricular fibrillation (VF) and mortality were decreased significantly only in L-10W group.

There were no significant decreases in episodes of VT, the incidence of irreversible VF and mortality in all of the groups treated with ramiprilat.

Conclusion: These data indicate that losartan and ramiprilat protect the heart against ischemia/reperfusion injury independently of their hemodynamic effects but in a time-dependent manner.
Design-optimized and operational features to improve the economic results of fishing vessels
Authors: Martínez-López Alba , Míguez-González Marcos , Díaz-Casás Vicente , Fariñas-Alvariño Pablo
Published: November 2011

The main objectives of this paper are to define the design parameters and operational features for new fishing vessels in order to increase their economic profitability. Thus, an economic model of their activity has been developed by taking into account the activity of the Galician fleet (Spain) for the last 7 years. Subsequently, the influence of each variable has been evaluated through the application of Monte Carlo simulation for each type of fishing vessel. Once the controllable and market variables in the model have been identified, the quantification of their influence on the economic result has been carried out. From data provided by the shipowners using the Port of Celeiro, this study also identifies a large oversize both in the hold and in the fuel capacity of the current fleet.

According to the results obtained, new main dimensions and operational features for the vessels are proposed, with the objective of improving the economic feasibility of these vessels.

The analysis shows the great importance of the market parameters and the initial investment in the final economic results. The longliner is the vessel that is the most sensitive to the solutions proposed, obtaining the largest improvements through smaller vessels operating at a lower speed during the trip.
From Conception to Application of a Tele-Operated Assistance Robot for Middle Ear Surgery
Authors: Nguyen Yann , Miroir Mathieu , Kazmitcheff Guillaume , Ferrary Evelyne , Sterkers Olivier , Grayeli Alexis Bozorg
Published: November 2011

The authors’ goal was to design and evaluate a robot dedicated to middle ear surgery. Specifications for dimensions, forces, and kinematics were collected, based on the otosclerosis procedure. The robot structure has a compact geometry with 3 linear and 3 rotatory motors. It is remotely piloted via a robot–surgeon interface under operative microscope. Ability to reach anatomical targets, to perform stapedectomy, and to place prosthesis in a model of stapedotomy was evaluated by 6 surgeons. Multiple anatomical targets in the middle ear could be successfully reached without damaging surrounding structures. The robot could be used under operative microscope with minimal visual field impairment or jointly with a 4-mm endoscope through the external auditory canal to perform stapedectomy in temporal bone specimens. Prosthesis could be inserted in the stapedotomy model. The assistance robot is the first prototype with 6 degrees of freedom, a kinematic structure, and dimensions optimized for tele-operated middle ear surgery.
Rebel With a Cause
Authors: Manning Tom
Published: November 2011

This case describes the experience of a new school board member in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Marta Pérez, as she discovers a wide range of ethical and management problems in the school district and attempts to deal with them. Layered throughout the case are challenges pertaining to the school board’s roles and responsibilities, particularly in the area of management oversight.
Conceptualising followership – a review of the literature
Authors: Crossman Brian , Crossman Joanna
Published: November 2011

Despite growing attention in professional and academic literature, a commonly accepted definition of followership does not seem to have emerged. The authors nevertheless explore some of the implications of followership definitions to date and build on these to offer one of their own. A review of the literature ensues, highlighting descriptive and prescriptive behavioural typologies, and situational theories. The paper argues that understanding the concept of followership better is likely to improve training and organizational performance and concludes with suggestions for future research and some implications for leadership/followership development.