bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conjunctival findings in hyperbaric and low‐tension glaucoma: an in vivo confocal microscopy study
Authors: Agnifili Luca , Carpineto Paolo , Fasanella Vincenzo , Mastropasqua Rodolfo , Zappacosta Antonio , Di Staso Silvio , Costagliola Ciro , Mastropasqua Leonardo
Published: September 2011

Purpose:  To analyse the epithelial features of the bulbar conjunctiva in hyperbaric and low‐tension glaucoma (LTG) using in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM).

Methods:  Thirty‐six eyes of 36 patients [18 affected by primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG) and 18 with LTG] were studied; control group was constituted by 28 eyes of 28 healthy subjects. All eyes were examined using digital confocal laser‐scanning microscopy (HRT II Rostock Cornea Module). The main IVCM outcome measurements were mean density (MMD: cysts/mm2) and mean total area (MMA: μm2) of the epithelial microcysts.

Results:  The mean intraocular pressure level (mmHg ± SD) was 15.1 ± 1.7, 16.3 ± 3.1 and 12.6 ± 1.8 in healthy, POAG and LTG eyes, respectively. Conjunctival microcysts were found in all patients and subjects: for healthy subjects, MMD = 10.9 ± 11.1 cysts/mm2 and MMA = 1501.9 ± 1191.1 μm2; for patients infected with POAG, MMD = 36.8 ± 28.6 cysts/mm2 and MMA = 7904.8 ± 7050.5 μm2; and for patients infected with LTG MMD = 45.6 ± 29.0 cysts/mm2 and MMA =7946.9± 5227.5 μm2. MMD and MMA were not significantly different between patients infected with POAG and those with LTG, whereas they were significantly greater in patients (fourfold and fivefold, respectively) than healthy subjects.

Conclusions:  The present study demonstrated that conjunctival microcysts represent an in vivo feature in all eyes with medically controlled POAG and LTG. Therefore, conjunctiva deserves careful analysis, because its accurate microscopic definition could help clarify the pathophysiology of aqueous outflow in glaucoma.
Promiscuous capitalism meets ‘exotic’ ethnicity: Intimate aspirations amongst cross‐border Chinese Dai
Authors: Lyttleton Chris , Deng Rui , Zhang Nan
Published: September 2011

Many ethnic Dai women from one remote county in Southwest China seek work in Thailand. This exodus builds on a combination of regional Tai cultural affinity and interpersonal skills with Chinese/Malaysian men. Cross‐border labour migration foregrounds growing neoliberal subjectivities as prior modes of trafficking evolve into trajectories of voluntary entrepreneurialism. Transnational work in Thai massage parlours blends intimate relations and monetary gain as Dai women merge the productive with the reproductive. At the same time, their movement and self‐enterprise sit uneasily with cross‐border disease control. Dai mobility is seen as problematic to the State body as assumptions concerning gendered and ‘ethnic’ sexuality and its potential to introduce HIV to China create targeted surveillance and control.
I Gave My Child Life but I Also Gave Her Death
Authors: Irving Andrew
Published: September 2011

The capacity for a complex inner life—encompassing inner speech, imaginative reverie and unarticulated moods—is an essential feature of living with illness and a principal means through which people interpret, understand and manage their condition. Nevertheless, as Nigel Rapport has pointed out in a recent edition of The Australian Journal of Anthropology (2008: 19 (3)), interiority largely remains a ‘terra‐incognita’ for social science, while anthropology lacks a generally accepted theory or methodological framework for understanding how interiority relates to people’s public actions and expressions. Moreover, as conventional social‐scientific methods are often too static to understand the fluidity of perception among people living with illness or bodily instability, I argue we need to develop new, practical approaches to knowing. By placing the problem of interiority directly into the field and turning it into an ethnographic, practice‐based question to be addressed through fieldwork in collaboration with informants, this article works alongside women living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda with the aim of capturing the unvoiced but sometimes radical changes in being, belief and perception that accompany terminal illness.
A Preliminary Study ofSalmonella, VerocytotoxigenicEscherichia coli/Escherichia coliO157 andCampylobacteron Four Mixed Farms
Authors: Bolton D. J. , O’Neill C. J. , Fanning S.
Published: September 2011

The aims of this study were to investigate the incidence ofSalmonella, verocytotoxigenicEscherichia coli(VTEC)/Escherichia coliO157 andCampylobacteron four mixed farms and to characterize the isolates in terms of a range of virulence factors. Eighty‐nine composite (five different samples from the same animal species combined) faecal [cattle (24), pigs (14), sheep (4), poultry (4), horses (7), deer (4), dogs (9), rodents (2) and wild birds (20)] samples, 16 composite soil samples plus 35 individual water samples were screened using culture‐based, immunomagnetic separation and molecular methods.Salmonellawas detected in bovine faeces, cattle and poultry house water.Salmonellaserotypes/phage types included Dublin, Kiel and Typhimurium DT193, and most isolates werespvC,invAandrckpositive. ThepefAandrckgenes were found exclusively in the non‐Typhimurium strains, whileSalmonellaDublin andSalmonellaKiel strains carriedSalmonellagenomic island I marker(s). VTEC/E. coliO157 were found in deer and dog faeces only. TheE. coliO157 isolate was an enteroinvasiveE. coli, while the VTEC isolate was untypable but carried thevt1,eaeA,hlyA,tirandeptDgenes. This article reports the first confirmed carriage ofE. coliO157 in Irish deer.Campylobacterspecies were not detected over the course of this study. It was concluded that [1]Salmonella, VTEC andCampylobacterhave low (<5%) prevalence or are absent on the farms in this study; [2] water was an important source of bacterial pathogens; [3] both dogs and deer may act as a source of pathogenicE. coliand [4] key virulence and resistance determinants are widespread in farmSalmonellastrains. This study highlights the need to control water as a source of pathogens and suggests that the domestic pets and deer should be considered in any farm risk assessment.
EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT ON LOBLOLLY PINE PLANTATIONS IN THE SOUTHERN UNITED STATES
Authors: HUANG JIN , ABT BOB , KINDERMANN GEORG , GHOSH SUJIT
Published: September 2011

AbstractFew studies have empirically examined climate change impacts on managed forests in the southern United States. In this paper, we use the U.S. Forest Service's Forest Inventory and Analysis Database to fit two growth models across the South and apply the four Hadley III climate scenarios developed for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fourth Assessment Report to project future growth and site productivity on loblolly pine plantations. The static growth model provides a direct test of whether a significant climate influence on forest growth can be statistically derived, while the dynamic growth model estimates climate effects through site productivity. Results indicate considerable spatial variation in potential future growth and productivity change on loblolly pine plantations due to climate change in the southern United States, while overall regional effects are projected to be marginal. The pattern of climate change impacts is consistent across the growth models and climate scenarios. These findings have several implications for climate change adaptation policies.
OPTIMAL HARVESTING TIME OF FARMED AQUATIC POPULATIONS WITH NONLINEAR SIZE‐HETEROGENEOUS GROWTH
Authors: ARANEDA MARCELO E. , HERNÁNDEZ JUAN M. , GASCA‐LEYVA EUCARIO
Published: September 2011

Abstract This paper examines the question of optimal harvesting time in a size‐heterogeneous farmed aquatic population, using a model reflecting the effect of population density on both overall mortality rate and individual growth. This analysis enables an optimal harvesting rule to be deduced. The results obtained are applied to shrimp culture in recirculation systems in Mexico. Numerical solutions are derived for different production scenarios. Assuming identical culture conditions, results are also obtained under the hypothesis of homogeneous population growth, the view traditionally taken in the relevant economic literature. The optimal harvesting times calculated tend to decrease with higher densities, although this rule fails under the size‐heterogeneous population model. In general, optimal harvesting times are overestimated when size‐homogeneity in the culture is assumed. Our analysis reveals that management predictions are significantly mistaken if the size‐heterogeneity phenomenon is not taken into account.
Fourth branchial arch defects in full‐siblings treated with a partial arytenoidectomy
Authors: Menéndez I. M. , Mancha D. A. I. , Fitch G.
Published: September 2011

Fourth branchial arch defects (4‐BAD) is a syndrome that consists of aplasia, or varying degrees of hypoplasia, of one or more of the cartilaginous or muscular structures derived from the fourth branchial arch, unilaterally or bilaterally. This case report describes the cases of 2 directly related siblings admitted with a complaint of abnormal respiratory noise at rest and complete exercise intolerance. Laryngeal palpation, resting upper airway (UA) endoscopy, lateral radiography of the larynx and cervical trachea, and laryngeal ultrasonography revealed multiple laryngeal and pharyngeal abnormalities. The clinical findings were compatible with the diagnosis of fourth branchial arch defects. A left partial arytenoidectomy and a unilateral ventriculocordectomy were performed in both cases. The follow‐up endoscopies revealed a functional airway aperture. The surgery enabled the horses to be used for riding. Considering the direct family relationship between the horses, these cases would support a genetic component of 4‐BAD.
Anticoagulant, anti-aggregation and antithrombotic effects of a novel hexapeptide
Authors: Long Li-hui , Cao Yong-xiao , Ma Zhao , Liu Jing
Published: September 2011

Objectives

Hexapeptide is a novel synthetic oligopeptide with a structure similar to that of eptifibatide. This study was designed to investigate the anticoagulant, anti-aggregation, disaggregation and anti-thrombogenesis effects of hexapeptide.

Methods

The effects of antiplatelet aggregation induced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP), arachidonic acid (AA) and thrombin, and the effect of disaggregation of platelet aggregation induced by ADP were determined. The anticoagulation indexes were determined by different kits.

Key findings

Hexapeptide 1 × 10−5–1 × 10−4m could significantly prolong rabbit blood clotting time, thrombin time, prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin enzyme time, and reduce the length, wet weight, dry weight and the index of thrombus in a concentration-dependent manner. Hexapeptide 1 × 10−4m decreased platelet adhesion rate by 40.2%. The platelet aggregation inhibition of hexapeptide in dogs and humans was more obvious than in rabbits and rats. The aggregation inhibition rate of 1 × 10−5m hexapeptide in dogs, rabbits, rats and humans induced by ADP was 93.9 ± 1.3%, 66.2 ± 1.4%, 76.1 ± 3.2% and 99.8 ± 0.2%, respectively; the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of hexapeptide was 7.24 × 10−8, 3.24 × 10−6, 6.61 × 10−6 and 8.91 × 10−8m, respectively. For the aggregation inhibition rate of hexapeptide in dogs, rabbits and humans induced by AA, the IC50 was 1.29 × 10−9, 1.32 × 10−6 and 9.33 × 10−8m, respectively; the IC50 of aggregation inhibition rates induced by thrombin was 2.88 × 10−6, >1 × 10−5 and 4.17 × 10−6m, respectively. The disaggregation rate of 1 × 10−4m hexapeptide in dog induced by ADP was 68.8 ± 7.4%.

Conclusions

Hexapeptide has anticoagulant, antiplatelet aggregation, disaggregation and antithrombotic effects in vitro.
Bead layering as a process to stabilize nanosuspensions: influence of drug hydrophobicity on nanocrystal reagglomeration following in-vitro release from sugar beads
Authors: Kayaert Pieterjan , Anné Michaël , Van den Mooter Guy
Published: September 2011

Objectives

In this article the feasibility of fluidized bed bead coating of nanosuspensions of drugs with significantly different physicochemical properties was investigated as a process to transform nanosuspensions into a solid dosage form. The second aim was to see how those physicochemical properties affect the coating process and the subsequent in-vitro dissolution process.

Methods

Naproxen and cinnarizine were used as model drugs. A fluidized bed pellet coater with Würster insert was used to coat the nanosuspensions prepared by media milling on sugar beads.

Key findings

Bead layering of cinnarizine nanosuspensions resulted in a complete dissolution in 15 min, compared to only 11% in 1 h for the unmilled powder. Naproxen also dissolved three times faster when formulated on a bead. A difference could be observed between naproxen and cinnarizine. Cinnarizine nanocrystals reagglomerate when released from the coating, resulting in a slower release when compared to the original nanosuspension. No agglomeration and no delay could be observed for naproxen. These differences are most likely caused by the difference of surface hydrophobicity between naproxen and cinnarizine.

Conclusion

This study confirms that bead layering is a valuable drying technique that could complement spray drying and freeze drying, but more important is that we prove that drug physicochemical properties have a significant influence on in-vitro dissolution performance after bead layering and this is not readily predictable from the information obtained from the original nanosuspension itself.
Night eating syndrome: an overview
Authors: Milano Walter , De Rosa Michele , Milano Luca , Capasso Anna
Published: September 2011

Objectives

The purpose of this review is to outline the nosographic characteristics of NES and the most reliable ethiopathogenetic theories in relation to the most recent evidence in the literature.

Key findings

The night eating syndrome (NES) is a disorder occurring at the stated time, that does not meet the criteria for any specific eating disorder. NES is characterized by a reduced feeding during the day, evening hyperphagia accompanied by frequent nocturnal awakenings associated with conscious episodes of compulsive ingestion of food and abnormal circadian rhythms of food and other neuroendocrine factors. Frequently it is associated with obesity and depressed mood. We highlight the therapeutic possibilities of some drugs, especially selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which reduce the hyperactivity of the serotonin transporter in NES and significantly improve the clinical picture of this disease.

Conclusions

Night eating syndrome is of importance clinically because of its association with obesity. The recognition and effective treatment of NES may be an increasingly important way to treat a subset of the obese population. Treatment of the syndrome, however, is still in its infancy. One clinical trial has reported efficacy with the SSRI sertraline. Other treatments, such as the anticonvulsant topiramate, phototherapy, and other SSRIs, may also offer future promise. Particularly useful would be studies involving brain scans (magnetic resonance imaging or single-photon emission computed tomography) of patients with NES compared with the healthy population, to investigate more thoroughly the possible alterations involved in the pathogenesis of NES.
Emotion, directed forgetting, and source memory
Authors: Otani Hajime , Libkuman Terry M. , Goernert Phillip N. , Kato Koichi , Migita Mai , Freehafer Sarah E. , Landow Michael P.
Published: September 2011

We investigated the role of emotion on item and source memory using the item method of directed forgetting (DF) paradigm. We predicted that emotion would produce source memory impairment because emotion would make it more difficult to distinguish between to‐be‐remembered (R items) and to‐be‐forgotten items (F items) by making memory strength of R and F items similar to each other. Participants were presented with negatively arousing, positively arousing, and neutral pictures. After each picture, they received an instruction to remember or forget the picture. At retrieval, participants were asked to recall both R and F items and indicate whether each item was an R or F item. Recall was higher for the negatively arousing than for the positively arousing or neutral pictures. Further, DF occurred for the positively arousing and neutral pictures, whereas DF was not significant for the negatively arousing pictures. More importantly, the negatively arousing pictures, particularly the ones with violent content, showed a higher tendency of producing misattribution errors than the other picture types, supporting the notion that negative emotion may produce source memory impairment, even though it is still not clear whether the impairment occurs at encoding or retrieval.
Selfinjective quivers with potential and 2-representation-finite algebras
Authors: Herschend Martin , Iyama Osamu
Published: September 2011

We study quivers with potential (QPs) whose Jacobian algebras are finite-dimensional selfinjective. They are an analogue of the ‘good QPs’ studied by Bocklandt whose Jacobian algebras are 3-Calabi–Yau. We show that 2-representation-finite algebras are truncated Jacobian algebras of selfinjective QPs, which are factor algebras of Jacobian algebras by certain sets of arrows called cuts. We show that selfinjectivity of QPs is preserved under iterated mutation with respect to orbits of the Nakayama permutation. We give a sufficient condition for all truncated Jacobian algebras of a fixed QP to be derived equivalent. We introduce planar QPs which provide us with a rich source of selfinjective QPs.
Design Methodology of a Proton Exchange Membrane Modular Fuel Cell of 100 W Power Output
Authors: Ebaid Munzer S. Y. , Mustafa Mohamad Y.
Published: September 2011

The design of the fuel cell plays a major role in determining their cost. It is not only the cost of materials that increases the cost of the fuel cell, but also the manufacturing techniques and the need for skilled technicians for assembling and testing the fuel cell. The work presented in this paper is part of a research work aims to design and manufacture a proton exchange membrane (PEM) modular fuel cell of 100 W output at low cost using conventional materials and production techniques, then testing the fuel cell to validate its performance. This paper will be dealing only with the design of a modular fuel cell that can be mass produced and used to set up a larger fuel cell stack for stationary applications (6 kW) which is capable of powering a medium sized household. The design for 100 W fuel cell module will include the calculations for the main dimensions of the fuel cell components, mass flow rate of reactants, water production, heat output, heat transfer and the cooling system. This work is intended to facilitate material and process selection prior to manufacturing alternatives prior to capital investment for wide-scale production. The authors believe that the paper would lead to a stimulating discussion.
Improved estimation of embedded InGaAs/GaAs quantum dots locations using a domed-apex nanoprobe
Authors: Xu Lixia , Arai Yoshio , Araki Wakako , Ogawa Takahiro , Ozasa Kazunari , Maeda Mizuo , Hara Masahiko
Published: September 2011

An improved ability to estimate locations of embedded InGaAs/GaAs quantum dots (QDs) was demonstrated by using a domed-apex probe to measure low-temperature (10 K) photoluminescence (PL) during a nanoprobe scan. Individual QDs subjected to nanoprobe-induced strain exhibited enhanced fine PL peaks. PL emission results were used to trace locations of single QDs to the probe positions where their PL peak energies achieved maximum values.
Biomedical Model Fitting and Error Analysis
Authors: Costa Kevin D. , Kleinstein Steven H. , Hershberg Uri
Published: September 2011

Lecture notes, slides, and problem set illustrate methods for curve fitting and error analysis relevant to development of computational models for biomedical applications.
Hunger Circuit
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: September 2011

In response to food deprivation, ghrelin activates a positive feedback loop to elicit feeding behavior.
Small bowel imaging in Crohn's disease
Authors: Bungay Helen
Published: September 2011

Imaging of Crohn's disease of the small bowel is gradually moving away from barium fluoroscopy and towards cross-sectional modalities. This review explores the strengths and limitations of various techniques, and focuses on several current questions in small bowel imaging, such as the comparison between oral ingestion or nasojejunal intubation and enteroclysis for introduction of contrast, the use of computerised tomography (CT) versus magnetic resonance (MR) and the likely changes over the next decade.
A highly asymmetric direct aldol reaction catalyzed by chiral proline amide – thiourea bifunctional catalysts
Authors: Li Yun , Yang Qing-chuan , Xu Xiao-Ying , Zhou Yong , Bai Jian-fei , Wang Fei-ying , Wang Li-xin
Published: September 2011

A series of chiral proline amide – thiourea bifunctional catalysts derived from l-proline and chiral diamine were prepared and successfully applied to highly enantioselective direct aldol reactions of cyclohexanone with various aldehydes in excellent yields (85%–97%), diastereoselectivities (anti/syn > 20:1) and enantioselectivities (up to 91% ee).
Asymmetric hydroamination catalyzed by in situ generated chiral amidate and ureate complexes of zirconium — Probing the role of the tether in ligand design
Authors: Payne Philippa R. , Bexrud Jason A. , Leitch David C. , Schafer Laurel L.
Published: September 2011

Simple chiral proligands have been synthesized from inexpensive chiral starting materials. These amidate and ureate ligands support zirconium complexes that successfully catalyze intramolecular hydroamination with up to 26% ee. Several elements necessary for successful ligand design are highlighted and discussed. In particular, the strict control of metal geometry through multidentate tethered ligands is determined to be an essential aspect of future ligand development.
JACOBI ELLIPTIC FUNCTION SOLUTION OF GINZBURG–LAUDAU EQUATION BASED ON BCS THEORY
Authors: XIANG CHUNHUAN
Published: September 2011

The GL (Ginzburg–Landau) equation is a very important equation in superconductivity, which can be employed to explain many phenomena. In the present work, by using the expanded F-expansion method, some new exact Jacobi elliptic function solutions of the equation are obtained. More important is the phase factor of the solutions.
ENRICHMENT OF THE SUPERHEAVY ELEMENT ROENTGENIUM (Rg) IN NATURAL Au
Authors: MARINOV A. , PAPE A. , KOLB D. , HALICZ L. , SEGAL I. , TEPLIAKOV N. , BRANDT R.
Published: September 2011

Based on the observation of the long-lived isotopes of roentgenium, 261 Rg and 265 Rg (Z = 111, t1/2≥108 y ) in natural Au , an experiment was performed to enrich Rg in 99.999% Au . 16 mg of Au were heated in vacuum for two weeks at a temperature of 1127° C (63° C above the melting point of Au ). The content of 197 Au and 261 Rg in the residue was studied with high resolution inductively coupled plasma-sector field mass spectrometry (ICP-SFMS). The residue of Au was 3×10-6 of its original quantity. The recovery of Rg was a few percent. The abundance of Rg compared to Au in the enriched solution was about 2×10-6, which is a three to four orders of magnitude enrichment. It is concluded that the evaporation rate of Rg from an Au matrix in vacuum at 63° C above the Au melting point is lower than that of Au . This experiment reinforces our first observation of Rg in a terrestrial material. As before it is concluded that a long-lived isomeric state exists in 261 Rg and that it probably belongs to a new class of isomeric states, namely high spin (K-type) super- or hyperdeformed isomeric states.
ON AN EXTENDED CHEBYSHEV TYPE INEQUALITY FOR SEMI(CO)NORMED FUZZY INTEGRALS
Authors: AGAHI HAMZEH , YAGHOOBI M. A.
Published: September 2011

The aim of the present paper is to establish an extended Chebyshev type inequality for semi(co)normed fuzzy integrals based on an aggregation function and a scale transformation. The extended Chebyshev type inequality given in this paper provides a generalization of some previous results. Finally, some conclusions are drawn and some problems for further investigations are given.
MULTIVARIATE MODELS AND VARIABILITY INTERVALS: A LOCAL RANDOM SET APPROACH
Authors: FETZ THOMAS
Published: September 2011

This article is devoted to the propagation of families of variability intervals through multivariate functions comprising the semantics of confidence limits. At fixed confidence level, local random sets are defined whose aggregation admits the calculation of upper probabilities of events. In the multivariate case, a number of ways of combination is highlighted to encompass independence and unknown interaction using random set independence and Fréchet bounds. For all cases we derive formulas for the corresponding upper probabilities and elaborate how they relate. An example from structural mechanics is used to exemplify the method.
INTERMEDIATE FUZZY NUMBERS FOR COLOR KNOWLEDGE REPRESENTATION
Authors: LIU JIANHUI , ZHANG SONGMAO
Published: September 2011

Color knowledge representation is an essential aspect for designing intelligent graphic systems. Since the mapping between low-level color numerical values and high-level semantics is crucial, the theory of fuzzy numbers is greatly needed for representing color concepts. The limited linguistic color words bring about the requirement for representing intermediate color concepts. However, there is not corresponding definitions in the fuzzy realm. To overcome this representational inadequacy, this work addresses the issue of formally defining the intermediate fuzzy concept. Since definitions of the intermediate fuzzy numbers need a well-defined order between two basic fuzzy numbers, this paper first presents a cognition based linguistic ranking method. Then two novel definitions, namely, intermediate fuzzy numbers and intermediate operations on fuzzy numbers, are presented. The definitions are of abstract ones in order for general use. Besides, the paper also presents and studies some specific intermediate fuzzy numbers and intermediate operations, which are important for modelling gradual changes between two color terms in Color Naming System.
TRACKING ERRORS FROM DISCRETE HEDGING IN EXPONENTIAL LÉVY MODELS
Authors: BRODÉN MATS , TANKOV PETER
Published: September 2011

We analyze the errors arising from discrete readjustment of the hedging portfolio when hedging options in exponential Lévy models, and establish the rate at which the expected squared error goes to zero when the readjustment frequency increases. We compare the quadratic hedging strategy with the common market practice of delta hedging, and show that for discontinuous option pay-offs the latter strategy may suffer from very large discretization errors. For options with discontinuous pay-offs, the convergence rate depends on the underlying Lévy process, and we give an explicit relation between the rate and the Blumenthal-Getoor index of the process.
DYNAMIC PORTFOLIO SELECTION UNDER CAPITAL-AT-RISK WITH NO SHORT-SELLING CONSTRAINTS
Authors: DMITRAŠINOVIĆ-VIDOVIĆ GORDANA , LARI-LAVASSANI ALI , LI XUN , WARE ANTONY
Published: September 2011

Portfolio optimization under downside risk is of crucial importance to asset managers. In this article we consider one such particular measure given by the notion of Capital at Risk (CaR), closely related to Value at Risk. We consider portfolio optimization with respect to CaR in the Black-Scholes setting with time dependent parameters and investment strategies, i.e., continuous-time portfolio optimization. We review the results from our previous work in unconstrained portfolio optimization, and then investigate and solve the corresponding problems with the additional constraint of no-short-selling. Analytical formulae are derived for the optimal strategies, and numerical examples are presented.
CONTROLLED SYNCHRONIZATION FOR MASTER–SLAVE MANIPULATORS BASED ON OBSERVED ENDER TRAJECTORY
Authors: HAN Q.
Published: September 2011

This paper proposes two control strategies for the motion synchronization of the master–slave manipulators based on their ender trajectories. First, the basic equations used by the two control methods for motion synchronization are presented. Such procedures are proved to be stable for negative definite gain matrices, according to the Lyapunov theory. Then, the controlled items of the slave manipulator are determined for the ender trajectory synchronization by the coordinate transformations between the joint variables and the ender trajectory in the form of pseudo-Jacobian matrix. Finally, the two control methods for synchronization are validated by the numerical simulation for a master–slave system consisting of two planar three-degree-of-freedom (3-DOF) manipulators.
Evidence for the role of hindbrain orexin-1 receptors in the control of meal size
Authors: Parise Eric M. , Lilly Nicole , Kay Kristen , Dossat Amanda M. , Seth Rohit , Overton J. Michael , Williams Diana L.
Published: September 2011

Hypothalamic orexin neurons project to the hindbrain, and 4th-ventricle intracerebroventricular (4th-icv) injection of orexin-A treatment increases food intake. We assessed the effects of hindbrain orexin-A and the orexin-1-receptor antagonist SB334867 on meal pattern in rats consuming standard chow. When injected 4th-icv shortly before dark onset, lower doses of orexin-A increased food intake over a 2-h period by increasing the size of the first meal relative to vehicle, whereas the highest dose increased food intake by causing the second meal to be taken sooner. Conversely, hindbrain SB334867 reduced food intake by decreasing the size of the first meal of the dark phase. We also examined the effects of 4th-icv orexin-A and SB334867 on locomotor activity. Only the highest dose of orexin-A increased activity, and SB334867 had no effect. In addition, hindbrain SB334867 induced c-Fos in the nucleus of the solitary tract. These data support the suggestion that endogenous hindbrain orexin-A acts to limit satiation. Both orexin-A and the pancreatic satiation hormone amylin require an intact area postrema to affect food intake, so we asked whether 4th-icv orexin-A impairs the satiating effect of peripheral amylin treatment. Amylin reduced the size of the first meal of the dark cycle when rats were pretreated with 4th-icv saline, yet amylin was ineffective after 4th-icv orexin-A pretreatment. Using double-label immunohistochemistry, we determined that some orexin-A fibers in the area postrema are located in proximity to amylin-responsive neurons. Therefore, hindbrain orexin-A may increase food intake, in part, by reducing the ability of rats to respond to amylin during a meal.
Electrodermal Response in Gaming
Authors: Westland J. Christopher
Published: September 2011

Steady improvements in technologies that measure human emotional response offer new possibilities for making computer games more immersive. This paper reviews the history of designs a particular branch of affective technologies that acquire electrodermal response readings from human subjects. Electrodermal response meters have gone through continual improvements to better measure these nervous responses, but still fall short of the capabilities of today's technology. Electrodermal response traditionally have been labor intensive. Protocols and transcription of subject responses were recorded on separate documents, forcing constant shifts of attention between scripts, electrodermal measuring devices and of observations and subject responses. These problems can be resolved by collecting more information and integrating it in a computer interface that is, by adding relevant sensors in addition to the basic electrodermal resistance reading to untangle (1) body resistance; (2) skin resistance; (3) grip movements; other (4) factors affecting the neural processing for regulation of the body. A device that solves these problems is presented and discussed. It is argued that the electrodermal response datastreams can be enriched through the use of added sensors and a digital acquisition and processing of information, which should further experimentation and use of the technology.
New Low-Power Tristate Circuits in Positive Feedback Source-Coupled Logic
Authors: Gupta Kirti , Sridhar Ranjana , Chaudhary Jaya , Pandey Neeta , Gupta Maneesha
Published: September 2011

Two new design techniques to implement tristate circuits in positive feedback source-coupled logic (PFSCL) have been proposed. The first one is a switch-based technique while the second is based on the concept of sleep transistor. Different tristate circuits based on both techniques have been developed and simulated using 0.18 μm CMOS technology parameters. A performance comparison indicates that the tristate PFSCL circuits based on sleep transistor technique are more power efficient and achieve the lowest power delay product in comparison to CMOS-based and the switch-based PFSCL circuits.
Production of a Solvent, Detergent, and Thermotolerant Lipase by a Newly Isolated Acinetobacter sp. in Submerged and Solid‐State Fermentations
Authors: Khoramnia Anahita , Ebrahimpour Afshin , Beh Boon Kee , Lai Oi Ming
Published: September 2011

The lipase production ability of a newly isolated Acinetobacter sp. in submerged (SmF) and solid‐state (SSF) fermentations was evaluated. The results demonstrated this strain as one of the rare bacterium, which is able to grow and produce lipase in SSF even more than SmF. Coconut oil cake as a cheap agroindustrial residue was employed as the solid substrate. The lipase production was optimized in both media using artificial neural network. Multilayer normal and full feed forward backpropagation networks were selected to build predictive models to optimize the culture parameters for lipase production in SmF and SSF systems, respectively. The produced models for both systems showed high predictive accuracy where the obtained conditions were close together. The produced enzyme was characterized as a thermotolerant lipase, although the organism was mesophile. The optimum temperature for the enzyme activity was 45°C where 63% of its activity remained at 70°C after 2 h. This lipase remained active after 24 h in a broad range of pH (6–11). The lipase demonstrated strong solvent and detergent tolerance potentials. Therefore, this inexpensive lipase production for such a potent and industrially valuable lipase is promising and of considerable commercial interest for biotechnological applications.
Possible Role of Visfatin in Hepatoma Progression and the Effects of Branched-Chain Amino Acids on Visfatin-Induced Proliferation in Human Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Ninomiya Soranobu , Shimizu Masahito , Imai Kenji , Takai Koji , Shiraki Makoto , Hara Takeshi , Tsurumi Hisashi , Ishizaki Sonoko , Moriwaki Hisataka
Published: September 2011

Obesity and related metabolic abnormalities, including adipocytokine dysbalance, are risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Visfatin, an adipocytokine that is highly expressed in visceral fat, is suggested to play a role in the progression of human malignancies. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) reduce the incidence of HCC in obese patients with liver cirrhosis and prevent obesity-related liver carcinogenesis in mice. In this study, we investigated the possible role of visfatin on HCC progression and the effects of BCAA on visfatin-induced proliferation of HCC cells. In patients with HCCs, serum visfatin levels were significantly correlated with stage progression and tumor enlargement. Visfatin preferentially stimulated the proliferation of HepG2, Hep3B, and HuH7 human HCC cells compared with Hc normal hepatocytes. Visfatin phosphorylated extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK), Akt, and GSK-3β proteins in HepG2 cells. LY294002 [a phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor], PD98059 [a MAP/ERK 1 kinase (MEK1) inhibitor], CHIR99021 (a GSK-3β inhibitor), and BCAA significantly inhibited visfatin-induced proliferation in HepG2 cells. BCAA also inhibited phosphorylation of GSK-3β, increased cellular levels of p21CIP1, caused cell-cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase, and induced apoptosis in HCC cells in the presence of visfatin. These findings suggest that visfatin plays a critical role in the proliferation of HCC cells and may be associated with the progression of this malignancy. In addition, BCAA might inhibit obesity-related liver carcinogenesis by targeting and, possibly, by overcoming the stimulatory effects of visfatin. Cancer Prev Res; 4(12); 2092–100. ©2011 AACR.
Adhesion molecule periplakin is involved in cellular movement and attachment in pharyngeal squamous cancer cells
Authors: Tonoike Yurie , Matsushita Kazuyuki , Tomonaga Takeshi , Katada Koji , Tanaka Nobuko , Shimada Hideaki , Nakatani Yukio , Okamoto Yoshitaka , Nomura Fumio
Published: September 2011

Background

We previously reported that periplakin (PPL) is downregulated in human esophageal cancer tissues compared to the adjacent non-cancer epithelium. Thus PPL could be a useful marker for detection of early esophageal cancer and evaluation of tumor progression, but largely remains unknown in this field. To investigate PPL involvement in carcinogenesis, tumor progression, cellular movement or attachment activity, siRNAs against PPL were transfected into pharyngeal squamous cancer cell lines and their effects on cellular behaviours were examined.

Results

PPL knockdown appeared to decrease tumor cell growth together with G2/M phase accumulation in cells attached to a culture dish. However, the extent of cell growth suppression, evaluated by the number of cells attached to the culture dish, was too distinctive to be explained only by cell cycle delay. Importantly, PPL knockdown suppressed cellular movement and attachment to the culture dish accompanied by decreased pAktSer473 phosphorylation. Additionally, LY294002, a PI3K inhibitor that dephosphorylates pAktSer473, significantly suppressed D562 cell migration. Thus PPL potentially engages in cellular movement al least partly via the PI3K/Akt axis.

Conclusions

PPL knockdown is related to reduced cellular movement and attachment activity in association with PI3K/Akt axis suppression, rather than malignant progression in pharyngeal cancer cells.
Novel mutations of TCOF1 gene in European patients with treacher Collins syndrome
Authors: Conte Chiara , D'Apice Maria Rosaria , Rinaldi Fabrizio , Gambardella Stefano , Sangiuolo Federica , Novelli Giuseppe
Published: September 2011

Background

Treacher Collins syndrome (TCS) is one of the most severe autosomal dominant congenital disorders of craniofacial development and shows variable phenotypic expression. TCS is extremely rare, occurring with an incidence of 1 in 50.000 live births. The TCS distinguishing characteristics are represented by down slanting palpebral fissures, coloboma of the eyelid, micrognathia, microtia and other deformity of the ears, hypoplastic zygomatic arches, and macrostomia. Conductive hearing loss and cleft palate are often present. TCS results from mutations in the TCOF1 gene located on chromosome 5, which encodes a serine/alanine-rich nucleolar phospho-protein called Treacle. However, alterations in the TCOF1 gene have been implicated in only 81-93% of TCS cases.

Methods

In this study, the entire coding regions of the TCOF1 gene, including newly described exons 6A and 16A, were sequenced in 46 unrelated subjects suspected of TCS clinical indication.

Results

Fifteen mutations were reported, including twelve novel and three already described in 14 sporadic patients and in 3 familial cases. Moreover, seven novel polymorphisms were also described. Most of the mutations characterised were microdeletions spanning one or more nucleotides, in addition to an insertion of one nucleotide in exon 18 and a stop mutation. The deletions and the insertion described cause a premature termination of translation, resulting in a truncated protein.

Conclusion

This study confirms that almost all the TCOF1 pathogenic mutations fall in the coding region and lead to an aberrant protein.
Cyclin D1, Id1 and EMT in breast cancer
Authors: Tobin Nicholas P , Sims Andrew H , Lundgren Katja L , Lehn Sophie , Landberg Göran
Published: September 2011

Background

Cyclin D1 is a well-characterised cell cycle regulator with established oncogenic capabilities. Despite these properties, studies report contrasting links to tumour aggressiveness. It has previously been shown that silencing cyclin D1 increases the migratory capacity of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells with concomitant increase in 'inhibitor of differentiation 1' (ID1) gene expression. Id1 is known to be associated with more invasive features of cancer and with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Here, we sought to determine if the increase in cell motility following cyclin D1 silencing was mediated by Id1 and enhanced EMT-features. To further substantiate these findings we aimed to delineate the link between CCND1, ID1 and EMT, as well as clinical properties in primary breast cancer.

Methods

Protein and gene expression of ID1, CCND1 and EMT markers were determined in MDA-MB-231 and ZR75 cells by western blot and qPCR. Cell migration and promoter occupancy were monitored by transwell and ChIP assays, respectively. Gene expression was analysed from publicly available datasets.

Results

The increase in cell migration following cyclin D1 silencing in MDA-MB-231 cells was abolished by Id1 siRNA treatment and we observed cyclin D1 occupancy of the Id1 promoter region. Moreover, ID1 and SNAI2 gene expression was increased following cyclin D1 knock-down, an effect reversed with Id1 siRNA treatment. Similar migratory and SNAI2 increases were noted for the ER-positive ZR75-1 cell line, but in an Id1-independent manner. In a meta-analysis of 1107 breast cancer samples, CCND1
low/ID1
high tumours displayed increased expression of EMT markers and were associated with reduced recurrence free survival. Finally, a greater percentage of CCND1
low/ID1
high tumours were found in the EMT-like 'claudin-low' subtype of breast cancer than in other subtypes.

Conclusions

These results indicate that increased migration of MDA-MB-231 cells following cyclin D1 silencing can be mediated by Id1 and is linked to an increase in EMT markers. Moreover, we have confirmed a relationship between cyclin D1, Id1 and EMT in primary breast cancer, supporting our in vitro findings that low cyclin D1 expression can be linked to aggressive features in subgroups of breast cancer.
Postcode Lotteries in Public Health - The NHS Health Checks Programme in North West London
Authors: Graley Clare EM , May Katherine F , McCoy David C
Published: September 2011

Background

Postcode lotteries in health refer to differences in health care between different geographic areas. These have been previously associated with clinical services. However there has been little documentation of postcode lotteries relating to preventative health care services. This paper describes a postcode lottery effect in relation to the NHS Health Checks Programme (a national cardiovascular screening programme in England) in eight PCTs in the North West sector of London.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional analysis of the Health Checks Programme was carried out in eight PCTs in North West London using a structured data-collecting instrument.

Results

The analysis found variation in the implementation of the national Health Checks Programme in terms of: the screening approach taken; the allocated budget (which varied from £69,000 to £1.4 million per 100,000 eligible population); payment rates made to providers of Health Checks; tools used to identify and measure risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes; monitoring and evaluation; and preventative services available following the health check.

Conclusions

This study identifies a postcode lottery effect related to a national public health programme. Although it is important to allow enough flexibility in the design of the Health Checks Programme so that it fits in with local factors, aspects of the programme may benefit from greater standardisation or stronger national guidance.
Medical interns' knowledge and training regarding urethral catheter insertion and insertion-related urethral injury in male patients
Authors: Manalo Manuel , Lapitan Marie Carmela M , Buckley Brian S
Published: September 2011

Background

Improper catheterization can lead to urethral injury. Yet research from four continents suggests training of junior doctors in catheterization is insufficient. European research suggests a majority of catheterization related morbidities occur when the procedure is performed by interns.

Methods

To assess the knowledge and practices of medical interns relating to urethral catheterization and iatrogenic urethral injury secondary to traumatic catheter insertion, a questionnaire survey was conducted of all first year medical interns at a tertiary national university hospital in the Philippines. The questionnaire contained 17 items covering 4 areas: methods of training in catheterization and level of experience; perceived adequacy of training; theoretical knowledge of catheterization; the mechanisms of catheter-related urethral injury.

Results

225/240 interns (94%) completed the survey (130 (57.8%) female). 125 (55.6%) responded that they had adequate theoretical training and 150 (66.7%) adequate practical training. All had performed more than 10 catheterizations and 204 (90%) were supervised when they first performed catheterization. Despite relatively high levels of experience and confidence, deficits were identified in detailed knowledge of correct catheterization procedures and of risks associated with urethral injury.

Conclusions

More thorough training of incoming medical interns in urinary catheterization may help to reduce the risk of complications and injury. Training should be universal and thought given to its timing within the curriculum. Training should include step by step instruction in the process, emphasis on history taking and awareness of factors associated with increased risk of urethral injury.