bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) regulates inflammatory neutrophil apoptosis and enhances resolution of inflammation
Authors: McGrath Emmet E , Marriott Helen M , Lawrie Allan , Francis Sheila E , Sabroe Ian , Renshaw Stephen A , Dockrell David H , Whyte Moira K B
Published: May 2011

Novel therapeutics targeting neutrophilic inflammation are a major unmet clinical need in acute and chronic inflammation. The timely induction of neutrophil apoptosis is critical for inflammation resolution, and it is thought that acceleration of apoptosis may facilitate resolution at inflammatory sites. We previously demonstrated that a death receptor ligand, TRAIL, accelerates neutrophil apoptosis in vitro. We examined the role of TRAIL in neutrophil-dominant inflammation in WT and TRAIL-deficient mice. TRAIL deficiency did not alter constitutive neutrophil apoptosis, whereas exogenous TRAIL accelerated apoptosis of murine peripheral blood neutrophils. We compared TRAIL-deficient and WT mice in two independent models of neutrophilic inflammation: bacterial LPS-induced acute lung injury and zymosan-induced peritonitis. In both models, TRAIL-deficient mice had an enhanced inflammatory response with increased neutrophil numbers and reduced neutrophil apoptosis. Correction of TRAIL deficiency and supraphysiological TRAIL signaling using exogenous protein enhanced neutrophil apoptosis and reduced neutrophil numbers in both inflammatory models with no evidence of effects on other cell types. These data indicate the potential therapeutic benefit of TRAIL in neutrophilic inflammation.
MicroRNA-146a regulates both transcription silencing and translation disruption of TNF-α during TLR4-induced gene reprogramming
Authors: El Gazzar Mohamed , Church Ashley , Liu Tiefu , McCall Charles E
Published: May 2011

Following the TLR-dependent initiation phase of acute systemic proinflammatory responses such as sepsis, an adaptive phase represses or activates a specific pattern of gene expression until the inflammation resolves. Here, we used the THP-1 sepsis cell model of bacterial LPS/endotoxin tolerance to show that TLR4-induced miR-146a supports the feed-forward adaptive processes that silence transcription and disrupt translation of acute proinflammatory genes. First, we found that miR-146a regulates a pathway that promotes the binding of transcription repressor RelB to the TNF-α promoter, a step known to precede histone and DNA modifications, which generate facultative heterochromatin to silence acute proinflammatory genes. However, once RelB binding occurred, miR-146a inhibition could not reverse compacted chromatin, and endotoxin tolerance persisted. Second, we observed that miR-146a regulates a pathway that supports assembly of the translation repressor complex of TNF-α by preventing the interaction of the RNA-binding protein effector Ago2 and RBM4. We also determined that once endotoxin tolerance is established, and specific genes have been reprogrammed, transcription and translation disruption can be reversed only by simultaneously depleting RelB and inhibiting miR-146a. Thus, miR-146a induction supports the TLR4-dependent shift from initiation to gene-specific repression at two levels. Our results also imply that therapies designed to reverse endotoxin tolerance as potential therapies for sepsis should be directed at the transcription and translation pathways of reprogramming.
Enhanced local correlation stacking method
Authors: Sanchis Charlotte , Hanssen Alfred
Published: May 2011

Stacking is a common technique to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) and the imaging quality of seismic data. Conventional stacking that averages equally a collection of normal moveout corrected or migrated shot gathers with a common reflection point is not always satisfactory. Instead, we propose a novel time-dependent weighted average stacking method that utilizes local correlation between each individual trace and a chosen reference trace as a measure of weight and a new weight normalization scheme that ensures meaningful amplitudes of the output. Three different reference traces have been proposed. These are based on conventional stacking, S/N estimation, and Kalman filtering. The outputs of the enhanced stacking methods, as well as their reference traces, were compared on both synthetic data and real marine migrated subsalt data. We conclude that both S/N estimation and Kalman reference stacking methods as well as the output of the enhanced stacking method yield consistently better results than conventional stacking. They exhibit cleaner and better defined reflection events and a larger number of reflections. We found that the Kalman reference method produces the best overall seismic image contrast and reveals many more reflected events, but at the cost of a higher noise level and a longer processing time. Thus, enhanced stacking using S/N estimation as reference method is a possible alternative that has the advantages of running faster, but also emphasizes some reflected events under the subsalt structure.
Modeling of elasticity effects of sandstone compaction using coated inclusions
Authors: Agersborg Remy , Johansen Tor Arne , Mavko Gary , Vanorio Tiziana
Published: May 2011

Compaction of siliciclastic sediments leads to an increase in their stiffness parameters and seismic velocities. Although mechanical compaction implies a reduction of porosity and closing of compliant pores, chemical compaction may alter the mineral properties, the cementing of grain contacts, and the pore volume. The ability of rock physics models to quantify such effects on seismic observables will aid hydrocarbon exploration. A framework was designed for modeling compaction effects by use of a so-called coated inclusion model that eliminates the need of using a hybrid approach through combining different theories. A basic feature of the model is that the inclusion is defined by a kernel representing the pore, which is surrounded by shells that may individually have different elastic properties from those of the pore-filling material and the background matrix. The modeling can be designed to explore seismic effects of various texture perturbations, including contact cementing and pore-filling processes. The numerical modelings seem to be consistent with the results obtained from other rock physics models. The model allows for the possibility of including small-scale heterogeneities within the rock texture and estimating frequency dispersion together with attenuation due to pore fluid flow. A basic weakness of the method is the relatively large number of parameters needed to describe a porous rock, which will always limit its practical usage. However, its basic physical foundation may provide a reference for understanding the qualitative and quantitative effects of various cementation scenarios on seismic parameters.
Acoustic emission induced by pore-pressure changes in sandstone samples
Authors: Mayr Sibylle I. , Stanchits Sergei , Langenbruch Cornelius , Dresen Georg , Shapiro Serge A.
Published: May 2011

An understanding of microseismicity induced by pore-pressure changes in stressed rocks is important for applications in geothermal and hydrocarbon reservoirs as well as for [Formula: see text] sequestrations. We have studied the triggering mechanisms of microseismicity (or acoustic emission in the laboratory) as a function of triaxial stress conditions and pore-pressure changes. In investigating the spatiotemporal distribution of acoustic emission activity in water-saturated triaxially stressed Flechtingen Sandstone samples subjected to changes in pore pressure, we assumed that acoustic events were triggered by pore-pressure increase. To estimate pore-pressure changes in the sample, we used an analytical solution of the 1D diffusion equation. A theoretical analysis of the spatiotemporal distribution suggested that for initially insignificantly stressed samples, acoustic events were triggered by the migration of a critical pore-pressure level through the sample. The critical level was controlled by the applied pore pressure of the previous cycle according to an apparent Kaiser effect in terms of pore pressure. This memory effect of the rock vanished if additional axial stress was applied to the sample before the next injection cycle. The behavior of a highly fractured rock in the final stage of the failure experiments was different. During the formation of a final sample-scale fracture, the spatiotemporal distribution of acoustic emission was more likely controlled by propagation of the fracture than by diffusion of a critical pore pressure, showing that the final macroscopic fracture was triggered by low pore pressure. Our work contributes to the characterization of reservoirs using fluid-induced seismicity.
Cortical Consolidation due to Increased Mineralization and Endosteal Contraction in Young Adult Men: A Five-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Ohlsson Claes , Darelid Anna , Nilsson Martin , Melin Johanna , Mellström Dan , Lorentzon Mattias
Published: May 2011

Context:

Peak bone mass is an important factor in the lifetime risk of developing osteoporosis. Large, longitudinal studies investigating the age of attainment of site-specific peak bone mass are lacking.

Objective and Main Outcome Measures:

The main outcome measures were to determine the site-specific development of peak bone mass in appendicular and axial skeletal sites and in the trabecular and cortical bone compartments, using both dual x-ray absorptiometry and peripheral computed tomography.

Design, Setting, and Population:

In total, 833 men [aged 24.1 ± 0.6 yr (mean ± sd)] from the original population-based Gothenburg Osteoporosis and Obesity Determinants Study (n = 1068) were included in this follow-up examination at 61.2 ± 2.3 months. Areal bone mineral density (aBMD) was measured with dual x-ray absorptiometry, whereas cortical and trabecular volumetric bone mineral density and bone size were measured by peripheral computed tomography at baseline and at the 5-yr follow-up.

Results:

During the 5-yr study period, aBMD of the total body, lumbar spine, and radius increased by 3.4, 4.2, and 7.8%, respectively, whereas a decrease in aBMD of the total hip of 1.9% was observed (P < 0.0001). Increments of 2.1 and 0.7% were seen for cortical volumetric bone mineral density of the radius and tibia, respectively (P < 0.0001), whereas cortical thickness increased by 3.8% at the radius and 6.5% at the tibia due to diminished endosteal circumference (radius 2.3% and tibia 4.6%, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

aBMD decreased at the hip but increased at the spine and radius, in which the increment was explained by continued mineralization and augmented cortical thickness due to endosteal contraction in men between ages 19 and 24 yr.
Five-Year Survival Is Similar in Thyroid Cancer Patients with Distant Metastases Prepared for Radioactive Iodine Therapy with either Thyroid Hormone Withdrawal or Recombinant Human TSH
Authors: Tala H. , Robbins R. , Fagin J. A. , Larson S. M. , Tuttle R. M.
Published: May 2011

Context:

Elevated levels of TSH markedly enhance the effectiveness of radioiodine (RAI) therapy in metastatic thyroid cancer.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to compare short-term overall survival in thyroid cancer patients with RAI-avid distant metastases prepared for RAI therapy with either traditional thyroid hormone withdrawal (THW) or recombinant human TSH (rhTSH) stimulation.

Design:

This was a retrospective chart review.

Setting:

The study was conducted at a tertiary care comprehensive cancer center.

Patients:

Patients included 175 patients with RAI avid metastatic disease to lung and/or bone.

Interventions:

In 58 patients, all RAI treatments (remnant ablation and therapy of metastatic disease) were done with rhTSH stimulation. In 35 patients, all RAI treatments were done after THW. In 82 patients, THW was used for initial RAI treatment(s) with subsequent administered activities given after rhTSH stimulation.

Main Outcome Measure:

Overall survival was measured.

Results:

After a median follow-up of 5.5 yr, there were no significant differences in overall survival between patients prepared for RAI therapy with rhTSH alone, THW alone, or THW followed by rhTSH (Kaplan-Meier analysis,P = 0.80). In a multivariate analysis that included clinicopathological features and method of preparation (rhTSH or TWH), only age at diagnosis was an independent predictor of overall survival.

Conclusions:

Preparation for RAI therapy using either THW or rhTSH stimulation was associated with similar 5-yr overall survival rates in patients with RAI avid thyroid cancer metastases to lung or bone.
Diegesis and Representation: Beyond the Fictional World, on the Margins of Story and Narrative
Authors: Bunia Remigius
Published: May 2011

The article raises the question whether the term diegesis—despite its rather widespread use among scholars—lacks a coherent definition. When diegesis is interpreted as the “narrated world,” the concepts related to hetero- and extradiegesis turn out to be partly inconsistent. This is why the article resorts to the notion of world; it considers defining diegesis as a “limited field” within the narrated world. However, this attempt at defining diegesis reveals certain peculiarities of representation. Their analysis leads to another characterization of diegesis: as—roughly speaking—the information explicitly conveyed by a representation. As an effect of processing meaning, diegesis is, then, not a narratological tool but an epistemic phenomenon that requires further examination.
The cell adhesion molecule DdCAD-1 regulates morphogenesis through differential spatiotemporal expression inDictyostelium discoideum
Authors: Sriskanthadevan Shrivani , Zhu Yingyue , Manoharan Kumararaaj , Yang Chunxia , Siu Chi-Hung
Published: May 2011

During development of Dictyostelium, multiple cell types are formed and undergo a coordinated series of morphogenetic movements guided by their adhesive properties and other cellular factors. DdCAD-1 is a unique homophilic cell adhesion molecule encoded by the cadA gene. It is synthesized in the cytoplasm and transported to the plasma membrane by contractile vacuoles. In chimeras developed on soil plates, DdCAD-1-expressing cells showed greater propensity to develop into spores than did cadA-null cells. When development was performed on non-nutrient agar, wild-type cells sorted from the cadA-null cells and moved to the anterior zone. They differentiated mostly into stalk cells and eventually died, whereas the cadA-null cells survived as spores. To assess the role of DdCAD-1 in this novel behavior of wild-type and mutant cells, cadA-null cells were rescued by the ectopic expression of DdCAD-1-GFP. Morphological studies have revealed major spatiotemporal changes in the subcellular distribution of DdCAD-1 during development. Whereas DdCAD-1 became internalized in most cells in the post-aggregation stages, it was prominent in the contact regions of anterior cells. Cell sorting was also restored in cadA− slugs by exogenous recombinant DdCAD-1. Remarkably, DdCAD-1 remained on the surface of anterior cells, whereas it was internalized in the posterior cells. Additionally, DdCAD-1-expressing cells migrated slower than cadA− cells and sorted to the anterior region of chimeric slugs. These results show that DdCAD-1 influences the sorting behavior of cells in slugs by its differential distribution on the prestalk and prespore cells.
Drosophila Smt3 negatively regulates JNK signaling through sequestering Hipk in the nucleus
Authors: Huang Hai , Du Guiping , Chen Hanqing , Liang Xuehong , Li Changqing , Zhu Nannan , Xue Lei , Ma Jun , Jiao Renjie
Published: May 2011

Post-translational modification by the small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO) is important for a variety of cellular and developmental processes. However, the precise mechanism(s) that connects sumoylation to specific developmental signaling pathways remains relatively less clear. Here, we show that Smt3 knockdown in Drosophila wing discs causes phenotypes resembling JNK gain of function, including ectopic apoptosis and apoptosis-induced compensatory growth. Smt3 depletion leads to an increased expression of JNK target genes Mmp1 and puckered. We show that, although knockdown of the homeodomain-interacting protein kinase (Hipk) suppresses Smt3 depletion-induced activation of JNK, Hipk overexpression synergistically enhances this type of JNK activation. We further demonstrate that Hipk is sumolylated in vivo, and its nuclear localization is dependent on the sumoylation pathway. Our results thus establish a mechanistic connection between the sumoylation pathway and the JNK pathway through the action of Hipk. We propose that the sumoylation-controlled balance between cytoplasmic and nuclear Hipk plays a crucial role in regulating JNK signaling.
RanBPM is essential for mouse spermatogenesis and oogenesis
Authors: Puverel Sandrine , Barrick Colleen , Dolci Susanna , Coppola Vincenzo , Tessarollo Lino
Published: May 2011

RanBPM is a recently identified scaffold protein that links and modulates interactions between cell surface receptors and their intracellular signaling pathways. RanBPM has been shown to interact with a variety of functionally unrelated proteins; however, its function remains unclear. Here, we show that RanBPM is essential for normal gonad development as both male and female RanBPM−/− mice are sterile. In the mutant testis there was a marked decrease in spermatogonia proliferation during postnatal development. Strikingly, the first wave of spermatogenesis was totally compromised, as seminiferous tubules of homozygous mutant animals were devoid of post-meiotic germ cells. We determined that spermatogenesis was arrested around the late pachytene-diplotene stages of prophase I; surprisingly, without any obvious defect in chromosome synapsis. Interestingly, RanBPM deletion led to a remarkably quick disappearance of all germ cell types at around one month of age, suggesting that spermatogonia stem cells are also affected by the mutation. Moreover, in chimeric mice generated with RanBPM−/− embryonic stem cells all mutant germ cells disappeared by 3 weeks of age suggesting that RanBPM is acting in a cell-autonomous way in germ cells. RanBPM homozygous mutant females displayed a premature ovarian failure due to a depletion of the germ cell pool at the end of prophase I, as in males. Taken together, our results highlight a crucial role for RanBPM in mammalian gametogenesis in both genders.
Tangential migration and proliferation of intermediate progenitors of GABAergic neurons in the mouse telencephalon
Authors: Wu Shengxi , Esumi Shigeyuki , Watanabe Keisuke , Chen Jing , Nakamura Kouichi C. , Nakamura Kazuhiro , Kometani Kouhei , Minato Nagahiro , Yanagawa Yuchio , Akashi Kaori , Sakimura Kenji , Kaneko Takeshi , Tamamaki Nobuaki
Published: May 2011

In the embryonic neocortex, neuronal precursors are generated in the ventricular zone (VZ) and accumulate in the cortical plate. Recently, the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the embryonic neocortex was recognized as an additional neurogenic site for both principal excitatory neurons and GABAergic inhibitory neurons. To gain insight into the neurogenesis of GABAergic neurons in the SVZ, we investigated the characteristics of intermediate progenitors of GABAergic neurons (IPGNs) in mouse neocortex by immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry, single-cell RT-PCR and single-cell array analysis. IPGNs were identified by their expression of some neuronal and cell cycle markers. Moreover, we investigated the origins of the neocortical IPGNs by Cre-loxP fate mapping in transgenic mice and the transduction of part of the telencephalic VZ by Cre-reporter plasmids, and found them in the medial and lateral ganglionic eminence. Therefore, they must migrate tangentially within the telencephalon to reach the neocortex. Cell-lineage analysis by simple-retrovirus transduction revealed that the neocortical IPGNs self-renew and give rise to a small number of neocortical GABAergic neurons and to a large number of granule and periglomerular cells in the olfactory bulb. IPGNs are maintained in the neocortex and may act as progenitors for adult neurogenesis.
Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy for Estimating Soil Characteristics Valuable in the Diagnosis of Soil Fertility
Authors: Genot Valérie , Colinet Gilles , Bock Laurent , Vanvyve Dominique , Reusen Yorick , Dardenne Pierre
Published: May 2011

Soil fertility diagnostics rely not only upon measurement of available nutrients but also upon the ability of the soil to retain these nutrients. Near infrared (NIR) reflectance spectroscopy is a rapid and non-destructive analytical technique which allows the simultaneous estimation of standard soil characteristics and does not require the use of chemicals. Previous studies showed that NIR spectroscopy could be used in local contexts to predict soil properties. The main goal of our research was to build a methodological framework for the use of NIR spectroscopy on a more global scale. The specific goals of this study were (i) to identify the best spectral treatment and processing—LOCAL versus GLOBAL—regression methods, Nil to compare the performance of NIR to standard chemical protocols and (iii) to evaluate the ability of NIR spectroscopy to predict soil total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), clay content and cationic exchange capacity (CEC) for a wide range of soil conditions. We scanned 1300 samples representative of the main soil types of Wallonia under crop, grassland or forest. Various sample preparations were tested prior to NIR measurement. The most appropriate options were selected according to analysis of variance and multiple means comparisons of the spectra principal components. Fifteen pre-treatments were applied to a calibration set and the prediction accuracy was evaluated for GLOBAL and LOCAL modified partial least square (MPLS) regression models. The LOCAL MPLS calibrations showed very encouraging results for all the characteristics investigated. On average, for crop soil samples, the prediction coefficient of variation ( CVp) was close to 15% for TOC content, 7% for TN content and 10% for clay content and CEC. The comparisons of repeatability and reproducibility of both NIR and standard methods showed that NIR spectroscopy is as reliable as reference methods. Prediction accuracy and technique repeatability will allow the use of NIR spectroscopy within the framework of the soil fertility evaluation and its replacement of standard protocols. LOCAL MPLS can be applied within global datasets, such as the International global soil spectral library. However, the performance of LOCAL MPLS is linked to the number of similar spectra in the dataset and more standard measurements are needed to characterise the least widespread soils.
Miscarriages of justice: the role of homicide review
Authors: Jones Dean
Published: May 2011

Miscarriages of justice within the United Kingdom have received much publicity since the early nineties and served to undermine confidence in the Criminal Justice system. One fairly recent activity on the part of the Association of Chief Police Officers which has served to reduce the likelihood of such miscarriages is the principle of the review of major crime investigations and in particular murder inquiries. This paper reflects upon the possible causes of flawed investigations which have led to miscarriages of justice over the recent past and refers to the major academic work which supports the principle of reviewing murder inquiries.
Hart–Devlin revisited: law, morality and consent in parenthood
Authors: Moss Kate , Hughes Rowland
Published: May 2011

The debate about law and morality is not new but changing social structures and advances in science, medicine and technology have impacted the decisions courts have to make. Within the fast-changing societies of the 21st century, is judicial decision-making cognisant of these advances and how do the judiciary currently reconcile difficult emergent issues concerning law, science and morality? The dilemma of decision-making regarding frozen embryos, the gametes of deceased donors and the issue of consent is analysed by reference to recent case law and the problem of decision-making in relation to the newly possible.
Junction jump sign: a useful adjunct to the precise positioning of the catheter tip during endovenous thermal ablation
Authors: Samuel N , Wallace T , Smith G E , Shahin Y , Chetter I C
Published: May 2011

Duplex ultrasound imaging plays a key role in the increasingly popular, minimally invasive endothermal treatment of varicose veins. Accurate placement of the echodense tip of endovenous catheter distal to the site of junctional incompetence is by far the most critical step in the entire thermo-ablative procedure. This is achieved technically by precise sonographic visualization of the junction and placement of the working tip of catheter distal to the junction. We wish to report an additional observation; the ‘junction jump sign’ where the tip of the catheter is observed to recoil towards the transducer as it traverses past the junction from the deep to the superficial venous system. This sign can be used as a useful adjunct to position with confidence the working tip, especially in situations where precise identification of the catheter tip is difficult.
The role of ultrasound imaging in acute rupture of the Achilles tendon
Authors: Elias David A , McKinnon Elspeth
Published: May 2011

In clinically suspected acute Achilles tendon rupture, ultrasound is a useful imaging modality which may confirm the diagnosis and distinguish between complete ruptures and partial tears. Ultrasound may help determine whether surgical or conservative treatment is most appropriate, and, where surgery is contemplated, allow optimal surgical planning. Sonographic features most highly correlated with a complete tear include absence of tendon at the injury site, tendon retraction and posterior acoustic shadowing at the tear margins.
Pancreatic cysts: significance and management
Authors: Tevernaraki K , Read S , Amin Z
Published: May 2011

Detection of pancreatic cystic lesions has significantly increased, often incidentally, due to the greater use and improved sensitivity of cross-sectional imaging. They may be benign, potentially malignant or malignant lesions, therefore accurate characterization is needed to decide on management. Ultrasound can be very useful in assessing cyst morphology but visibility may be poor. CT and MRI/MRCP are the main diagnostic tools for evaluating pancreatic cysts. Endoscopic ultrasound gives detailed morphological assessment and its main use is in allowing aspiration for cytology and tumour marker measurement.

Larger cysts with specific features on imaging are managed according to the most likely diagnosis. The management of smaller (<3 cm) cysts is more difficult and should be based on their imaging appearance and associated patient morbidity.

Although pseudocysts are a very common cause for cystic pancreatic lesions, more recent data suggest more than 60% of small pancreatic cysts may be mucinous.

The precise management algorithm is controversial and still evolving. In general, unilocular cysts <3 cm can be followed up with imaging, EUS aspiration and fluid analysis should be considered for complex cysts, especially if >2 cm, depending on patient age and morbidity. The length of follow-up is controversial, but should probably be for at least four years.
U.S. Army's Systematic Approach to Management of Community Response to the Sounds of Explosions
Authors: Luz George A.
Published: May 2011

Historically, the U.S. Army's concern with community response to the sound of explosions dates back to the late 1950s, when research efforts focused on avoiding damage to wood-frame houses. In the 1970s, the emphasis shifted to minimizing community annoyance. Beginning in the 1990s, the emphasis shifted from managing annoyance to managing noise complaints. Drawing from the experience of noise management programs at commercial airports, the Army's research efforts in regards to noise complaint management center around the six elements of an “ideal” program. This paper summarizes the Army's research efforts, past and present, on four of the six elements of the ideal program.
Climate, Energy Transition and Oil Resources
Authors: McKillop Andrew
Published: May 2011

Perhaps through a momentum effect, many OECD countries, especially the EU27 group, continue to have official government policies and accompanying measures, including sometimes large subsidies for the mitigation or “fight” against climate change. However, since the failure of the Dec 2009 Copenhagen climate conference, and the sovereign debt crisis necessitating large cuts in government spending, this “fight” is less often communicated as being critical to human survival. The linked theme, and policy area of energy transition away from fossil fuels has also become less emphasised, perhaps because global warming is now seen as “last year's crisis”, and perhaps because oil prices are thought to be manageable, at midyear 2010 price levels. Underlying both themes, a very large range of data, theories and modeling or scenario building are in play. This article selects and briefly examines certain key themes in play, in particular the question of renewable and non-renewable resources, and their exploitation or stewardship.
The 158-Year Climate Experiment
Authors: Boston Joseph F.
Published: May 2011

An analysis of the impact of carbon dioxide on global warming was performed using global average temperature data covering the last 158 years, along with corresponding atmospheric CO2 concentration data. A statistically significant correlation between the two was developed and used directly to calculate values of the key CO2 climate sensitivity factors (CSFs). When CO2 was treated as a proxy for all possible radiative and feedback forcing agents, an upper bound for the temperature rise due to a doubling of CO2 concentration was found to be 1.92 K. When the impact of CO2 alone was separated out from that of other radiative forcing agents, its CSF was found to be 0.250 KW−1m2, and the 2xCO2 temperature rise is 0.96 K. These values are less, by more than a factor of 3, than those typically reported from use of general circulation models.
The Methane Misconceptions
Authors: Flood Wilson
Published: May 2011

A doubling of the amount of methane in the atmosphere with its present composition would produce a warming equal to only about one thirtieth of the warming produced by a doubling of carbon dioxide.

At present rates of increase it would take about 360 years for atmospheric methane levels to double.

Molecule for molecule, methane is 7 times more effective at being a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide.

Present changes in atmospheric methane levels pose no environmental risk whatsoever.
Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill: Likely Impact on UK Regulation and Contractual Arrangements
Authors: Douglas Humphrey
Published: May 2011

The Gulf of Mexico oil spill resulted in a temporary moratorium on deepwater drilling and implementation of new regulation in the USA. Consequential organic changes to UK regulations are perhaps unlikely but more importance on the interpretation of existing regulations through continued and improved technical guidance is evident combined with greater enforcement of existing regulations. There is perhaps unlikely to be a fundamental change to the “no gain, no loss” principle of operatorship, but rather, increased scrutiny of contractual allocation of risk and rising insurance premia.
Gender Identity Salience and Perceived Vulnerability to Breast Cancer
Authors: Puntoni Stefano , Sweldens Steven , Tavassoli Nader T.
Published: May 2011

Breast cancer communications that make women's gender identity salient can trigger defense mechanisms and thereby interfere with key objectives of breast cancer campaigns. In a series of experiments, the authors demonstrate that increased gender identity salience lowered women's perceived vulnerability to breast cancer (Experiments 1a, 3a, and 3b), reduced their donations to ovarian cancer research (Experiment 1b), made breast cancer advertisements more difficult to process (Experiment 2a), and decreased ad memory (Experiment 2b). These results are contrary to the predictions of several prominent theoretical perspectives and a convenience sample of practitioners. The reduction in perceived vulnerability to breast cancer following gender identity primes can be eliminated by self-affirmation (Experiment 3a) and fear voicing (Experiment 3b), corroborating the hypothesis that these effects are driven by unconscious defense mechanisms.
It's the Mind-Set that Matters: The Role of Construal Level and Message Framing in Influencing Consumer Efficacy and Conservation Behaviors
Authors: White Katherine , Macdonnell Rhiannon , Dahl Darren W.
Published: May 2011

Across three studies, this research elucidates when loss- versus gain-framed messages are most effective in influencing consumer recycling by examining the moderating role of whether a more concrete or abstract mind-set is activated. First, in a field study, the authors demonstrate that loss frames are more efficacious when paired with low-level, concrete mind-sets, whereas gain frames are more effective when paired with high-level, abstract mind-sets. This is an important, substantive finding that persisted over a significant time span. in addition, in two additional laboratory studies, they find further evidence for this matching hypothesis, in which a pairing of loss- (gain-) framed messages that activates more concrete (abstract) mind-sets leads to enhanced processing fluency, increased efficacy, and, as a result, more positive recycling intentions. The findings have implications for marketers, consumers, and society as a whole.
Recalcitrance in groups II
Authors: Burns Robert G. , Oancea Daniel
Published: May 2011

Motivated by the well-known conjecture of Andrews and Curtis [Amer. Math. Monthly 73: 21–28, 1966.], we consider the question of how, in a given
Linked Open Data Perspectives: Incorporating Linked Open Data into Information Extraction on the Web
Authors: Adrian Benjamin , Dengel Andreas
Published: May 2011

Currently, the World Wide Web can be divided into two separate fields. The traditional Web of Documents consisting of hyperlinked web documents and the emerging Web of Data consisting of linked open data. We present ontology-based information extraction as core technology for bridging the gap between both fields. Based on this, we list three basic applications that integrate web data to web documents. Our SCOOBIE system can extract information of a linked open dataset mentioned as textual phrases in web documents. SCOOBIE returns machine interpretable metadata summarizing the content of a web document from the perspective of a linked open dataset. Based on SCOOBIE we present EPIPHANY, a system that returns extracted metadata back to the originating web document in form of semantic annotations. This allows users to request the Web of Data for more information about annotated subjects inside the web document. STERNTALER is a system that analyses extracted metadata from search results of a search engine. It generates semantic filters filled with facets of things that were extracted from web documents inside search results. This allows users filtering those web documents that contain information about specific subjects and facets.
Measuring Knowledge Management Success: Development and Test of a Theory-Based Measuring Model
Authors: Lehner Franz , Haas Nicolas
Published: May 2011

Many reports suggest that knowledge management concepts are practically accepted and only detailed questions remain open but this is only partially the case. Nevermore, one is still preoccupied with the question as to how a successful and sustainable integration of knowledge management can be accomplished in corporate practice. Science therefor begins to systematically investigate impacts on success and to develop analysis methods. Success factors which form the basis of KM success measurement in practice are tested using a research design from behavioural science as theoretical foundation.
(Weiblichen) Nachwuchs? Gewinnen! — Informatik, Jugend, Wettbewerbe und mehr
Authors: Pohl Wolfgang
Published: May 2011

Sind die Klagen der Informatik über mangelnden Nachwuchs überhaupt berechtigt? Anfängerzahlen auf Rekordniveau wecken Zweifel. Ein genauerer Blick zeigt, dass es an weiblichen (keine Überraschung) und möglicherweise auch an besonders guten (Überraschung?) Studierenden fehlt. Die Initiative BWINF (Bundesweit Informatiknachwuchs fördern) ist aus dem Bundeswettbewerb Informatik hervorgegangen. Sie engagiert sich mit einem breiten und in sich stimmigen Programm in der Nachwuchsförderung und geht dabei offensiv auch die genannten Probleme an.
Cross talk between cAMP and p38 MAPK pathways in the induction of leptin by hCG in human placental syncytiotrophoblasts
Authors: Ge Y C , Li J N , Ni X T , Guo C M , Wang W S , Duan T , Sun K
Published: May 2011

Leptin produced by the placental syncytiotrophoblasts participates in a number of processes in pregnancy including implantation, proliferation of the cytotrophoblasts, and nutrient transfer across the placenta. Despite the functional significance of leptin in pregnancy, the regulation of leptin synthesis is poorly understood in human placental syncytiotrophoblasts. In this study, we investigated the role of endogenous human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the regulation of leptin production as well as the underlying mechanism involving the cross talk between cAMP and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. We found that neutralization of endogenous hCG with its antibody dose dependently decreased leptin mRNA level and secretion, whereas exogenous hCG increased leptin mRNA level and secretion. Activation of the cAMP pathway with dibutyryl cAMP (db cAMP) or forskolin recapitulated the stimulatory effect of hCG on leptin expression. Inhibition of protein kinase A with H89 not only reduced the basal leptin expression but also attenuated the induced leptin expression by hCG. Treatment of the syncytiotrophoblasts with db cAMP and hCG phosphorylated p38 MAPK. Inhibition of p38 MAPK with SB203580 not only reduced the basal leptin production but also attenuated the leptin-induced production by both hCG and db cAMP. These data suggest that endogenous hCG plays a significant role in maintaining leptin production in human placental syncytiotrophoblasts, and this effect involves a cross talk between cAMP and p38 MAPK pathways.
New non-invasive tool for assessment of liver fibrosis: transient elastography
Authors: Horváth Gábor
Published: May 2011

Formation of connective tissue causing liver fibrosis is the common trait of chronic liver diseases. The „gold-standard” of the evaluation of liver fibrosis is liver biopsy, but it is an invasive, painful procedure, and carries a significant, although small risk of life-threatening complications. It may have contraindications, and it is certainly not the ideal procedure for serially repeated assessment of disease progression. A new, non-invasive method for the assessment of liver fibrosis by measuring liver stiffness is the transient elastography. The velocity of the propagation of a shear wave is measured by ultrasound. The procedure is painless, rapid, and no needs any preparation. So far, transient elastography has been mostly validated in chronic hepatitis C, but it is applicable in liver diseases with other etiologies. The diagnostic accuracy of transient elastography increases with stage of fibrosis, and is more accurate in advanced fibrosis (F≥2, Metavir score) and in cirrhosis. Indication of antiviral therapy for chronic viral hepatitis B and C are the main field of the application of the transient elastography, and it is also a useful tool for follow-up the disease progression. It is applicable for early, non-invasive detection of graft damage after liver transplantation. Evaluation of liver damage, the stage of liver fibrosis by transient elastography may have an important role in the decision before surgery, or application of potentially hepatotoxic drugs. Histological examination of the liver tissue is not substituted in every case by transient elastography, but liver biopsy is supplanted by measuring liver stiffness for evaluation of liver fibrosis in many cases. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 860–865.
Ultrafast Laser Cleaning of Daguerreotypes
Authors: Abere Michael J. , Murphy Ryan D. , Jackson Bianca , Mourou Gerard , Menu Michel , Mansfield John , Yalisove Steven M.
Published: May 2011

An ultrafast laser irradiation method for the removal of corrosion from Daguerreotypes without detrimentally affecting image quality has been developed. Corrosion products such as silver oxide and silver sulfide may be removed by chemical cleaning but these reactions are hard to control and are often damaging to the underlying silver, ruining the image. The Ti:Sapphire 150 fs laser pulses used in this study are focused to a beam diameter of 60 μm and are normally incident to the Daguerreotype. It was found that the corrosion layer has a lower material removal threshold than silver allowing for removal of corrosion with minimal removal of vital information contained in the silver substrate.
Alloys from Anau: The Manipulation of Metallic Properties in 3rdMillennium B.C. Southern Central Asia
Authors: Erb-Satullo Nathaniel L.
Published: May 2011

Metallography, chemical analysis, and microhardness testing of copper-alloy objects from Anau, Turkmenistan (c. 3000-2400 B.C.), were undertaken to determine how technological choices influenced the properties of the finished objects. Additionally, this analytical program assessed the position of the Anau metals in the development of metallurgy in southern Central Asia. Metallographic analysis of three bladed objects, all copper-arsenic alloys with 1% to 5% arsenic, showed that their edges had been cold-worked to a greater or lesser degree to create a blade that maintained a sharp edge, but also had flexibility to withstand impacts. Microhardness testing confirmed that the blade edges had a higher hardness than the interior metal. One of the objects had sulfur-rich inclusions in the metal matrix, suggesting the original charge had at least some sulfide ore. Conversely, a curved rod, made from a copper-lead-tin alloy, was cast to shape and showed no additional working of the metal. Lead, visible as black particles in the microstructure, was likely added to make the molten metal flow more easily. The metallographic and chemical analyses showed that the Anau objects fit into the tradition of Southern Central Asian metallurgy, though the presence of tin in objects of this period is more rare here than in later periods. Anau smiths displayed an ability to manipulate both physical and chemical properties of metal in order to produce functional objects with optimal characteristics.
Reconstructing the past to prevent future loss: The dyeing industry of Pompeii
Authors: Hopkins H. J.
Published: May 2011

The industrial dyeing apparatus excavated in Pompeii have been preserved and remainin situ. To understand Pompeii’s economy, and its place in the Roman world, it is necessary to first understand the capabilities of a single industry. Before this study, the size of the dyeing industry was calculated by applying theory to a superficial measurement of the remains. This study was the first to realise that to understand an industry it was necessary to reconstruct and use the relevant parts.

The most comprehensive survey of the apparatus was undertaken. A full-scale physical replica was constructed from materials that physically and thermally matched the originals. This study was the first to define the dyeing cycle time, temperatures reached and fuel type and quantity required. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was used to model a virtual replica to show the effect of external influences on the materials during use. The lead metal data did not exist before this study. This was the first use of FEA to model an archaeological apparatus or artefact of more than one material. The dyeing industry had been far smaller than originally thought.

Archaeological virtual replications tend to be aesthetic. This study produced a rare physical replication. When this is combined with data from the original survey and physical replicas each apparatus is now ‘preserved by record’ and may be recreated. Some of the apparatus in Pompeii have been amended in an attempt to reconstruct and preserve them. This study has shown that the amendments are incorrect and potentially misleading.

Prior to this study the size of the industry was a controversial ‘unanswerable’ question. This study provided a solid foundation that answered the question and illustrated a new approach, through a method that provided a means of preserving the apparatus for the future.
Technological Tradition and Change in Tibetan Silversmithing Techniques in Songpan, Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Reedy Chandra L.
Published: May 2011

Silver jewelry and repoussé work have been a significant part of the material culture of Tibet for centuries. While objects such as offering bowls, skullcups, butter lamps, ewers, portable shrines and incense burners serve religious purposes, many other type of objects are important in the secular life of Tibetans. This secular silver material culture includes items such as necklaces, bracelets, rings, hair ornaments, amulet cases, vessels, belts or waistbands and hooks for milk pails or butter churners.

The discussion presented here focuses on secular silver objects made in the workshop of a traditional Tibetan silversmith in the town of Songpan in northwestern Sichuan Province, China (traditionally comprising part of eastern Tibet). With interruptions in traditional practices during the Cultural Revolution, the question has been raised about whether or not such practices have continued [1]. This research is part of an effort to document traditional Tibetan craft practices and identify threats to their preservation. Workshop processes start with the craftsman acquiring the silver, making or buying tools, arranging the work area, and the customer commissioning a piece. Technical processes include working the silver ingot to form an object, annealing and quenching, making silver wire, filigree, granulation, soldering, inlay work, pickling and finishing.

Some changes have been introduced in how the workshop operates during the lifetime of the current craftsman, leading to differences between his procedures and that of his father, under whom he apprenticed. Some of these changes are due to technological advances (new equipment becoming available) and some are due to larger societal changes (for example, new government regulations regarding purchasing of raw silver). These changes are often in technological style affecting the fabrication stages, but not necessarily visible in completed objects, which retain their traditional forms, visual style and functions.