bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Roadmap to Implementing Metal–Organic Frameworks in Electronic Devices: Challenges and Critical Directions
Authors: Allendorf Mark D. , Schwartzberg Adam , Stavila Vitalie , Talin A. Alec
Published: September 2011

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and related material classes are attracting considerable attention for applications such as gas storage, separations, and catalysis. In contrast, research focused on potential uses in electronic devices is in its infancy. Several sensing concepts in which the tailorable chemistry of MOFs is used to enhance sensitivity or provide chemical specificity have been demonstrated, but in only a few cases are MOFs an integral part of an actual device. The synthesis of a few electrically conducting MOFs and their known structural flexibility suggest that MOF‐based electronic devices exploiting these properties could be constructed. It is clear, however, that new fabrication methods are required to take advantage of the unique properties of MOFs and extend their use to the realms of electronic circuitry. In this Concepts article, we describe the basic functional elements needed to fabricate electronic devices and summarize the current state of relevant MOF research, and then review recent work in which MOFs serve as active components in electronic devices. Finally, we propose a high‐level roadmap for device‐related MOF research, the objective of which is to stimulate thinking within the MOF community concerning the development these materials for applications including sensing, photonics, and microelectronics.
Distribution of type 1 cannabinoid receptor‐expressing neurons in the septal‐hypothalamic region of the mouse: Colocalization with GABAergic and glutamatergic markers
Authors: Hrabovszky Erik , Wittmann Gábor , Kalló Imre , Füzesi Tamás , Fekete Csaba , Liposits Zsolt
Published: September 2011

Type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1) is the principal mediator of retrograde endocannabinoid signaling in the brain. In this study, we addressed the topographic distribution and amino acid neurotransmitter phenotype of endocannabinoid‐sensitive hypothalamic neurons in mice. The in situ hybridization detection of CB1 mRNA revealed high levels of expression in the medial septum (MS) and the diagonal band of Broca (DBB), moderate levels in the preoptic area and the hypothalamic lateroanterior (LA), paraventricular (Pa), ventromedial (VMH), lateral mammillary (LM), and ventral premammillary (PMV) nuclei, and low levels in many other hypothalamic regions including the suprachiasmatic (SCh) and arcuate (Arc) nuclei. This regional distribution pattern was compared with location of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic and glutamatergic cell groups, as identified by the expression of glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65) and type 2 vesicular glutamate transporter (VGLUT2) mRNAs, respectively. The MS, DBB, and preoptic area showed overlaps between GABAergic and CB1‐expressing neurons, whereas hypothalamic sites with moderate CB1 signals, including the LA, Pa, VMH, LM, and PMV, were dominated by glutamatergic neurons. Low CB1 mRNA levels were also present in other glutamatergic and GABAergic regions. Dual‐label in situ hybridization experiments confirmed the cellular co‐expression of CB1 with both glutamatergic and GABAergic markers. In this report we provide a detailed anatomical map of hypothalamic glutamatergic and GABAergic systems whose neurotransmitter release is controlled by retrograde endocannabinoid signaling from hypothalamic and extrahypothalamic target neurons. This neuroanatomical information contributes to an understanding of the role that the endocannabinoid system plays in the regulation of endocrine and metabolic functions. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:1005–1020, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Descending projections from the dysgranular zone of rat primary somatosensory cortex processing deep somatic input
Authors: Lee Taehee , Kim Uhnoh
Published: September 2011

In the mammalian somatic system, peripheral inputs from cutaneous and deep receptors ascend via different subcortical channels and terminate in largely separate regions of the primary somatosensory cortex (SI). How these inputs are processed in SI and then projected back to the subcortical relay centers is critical for understanding how SI may regulate somatic information processing in the subcortex. Although it is now relatively well understood how SI cutaneous areas project to the subcortical structures, little is known about the descending projections from SI areas processing deep somatic input. We examined this issue by using the rodent somatic system as a model. In rat SI, deep somatic input is processed mainly in the dysgranular zone (DSZ) enclosed by the cutaneous barrel subfields. By using biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) as anterograde tracer, we characterized the topography of corticostriatal and corticofugal projections arising in the DSZ. The DSZ projections terminate mainly in the lateral subregions of the striatum that are also known as the target of certain SI cutaneous areas. This suggests that SI processing of deep and cutaneous information may be integrated, to a certain degree, in this striatal region. By contrast, at both thalamic and prethalamic levels as far as the spinal cord, descending projections from DSZ terminate in areas largely distinguishable from those that receive input from SI cutaneous areas. These subcortical targets of DSZ include not only the sensory but also motor‐related structures, suggesting that SI processing of deep input may engage in regulating somatic and motor information flow between the cortex and periphery. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:1021–1046, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lis1 reduction causes tangential migratory errors in mouse spinal cord
Authors: Moore Katherine D. , Chen Renee , Cilluffo Marianne , Golden Jeffrey A. , Phelps Patricia E.
Published: September 2011

Mutations in human LIS1 cause abnormal neuronal migration and a smooth brain phenotype known as lissencephaly. Lis1+/− (Pafah1b1) mice show defective lamination in the cerebral cortex and hippocampal formation, whereas homozygous mutations result in embryonic lethality. Given that Lis1 is highly expressed in embryonic neurons, we hypothesized that sympathetic and parasympathetic preganglionic neurons (SPNs and PPNs) would exhibit migratory defects in Lis1+/− mice. The initial radial migration of SPNs and PPNs that occurs together with somatic motor neurons appeared unaffected in Lis1+/− mice. The subsequent dorsally directed tangential migration, however, was aberrant in a subset of these neurons. At all embryonic ages analyzed, the distribution of SPNs and PPNs in Lis1+/− mice was elongated dorsoventrally compared with Lis1+/+ mice. Individual cell bodies of ectopic preganglionic neurons were found in the ventral spinal cord with their leading processes oriented along their dorsal migratory trajectory. By birth, Lis1+/− SPNs and PPNs were separated into distinct groups, those that were correctly, and those incorrectly positioned in the intermediate horn. As mispositioned SPNs and PPNs still were detected in P30 Lis1+/− mice, we conclude that these neurons ceased migration prematurely. Additionally, we found that a dorsally located group of somatic motor neurons in the lumbar spinal cord, the retrodorsolateral nucleus, showed delayed migration in Lis1+/− mice. These results suggest that Lis1 is required for the dorsally directed tangential migration of many sympathetic and parasympathetic preganglionic neurons and a subset of somatic motor neurons. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:1198–1211, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical, immunological, and genetic aspects in leprosy
Authors: Simon Marise , Scherlock Jonnia , Duthie Malcolm S. , Ribeiro de Jesus Amelia
Published: September 2011

Leprosy is a chronic infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It affects the skin and peripheral nerves and can cause irreversible chronic disabilities. The worldwide registered number of cases in 2009 was 213,036. This review discusses clinical aspects of the disease, including leprosy reactions and neuronal damage, as well as immunological and immunogenetic aspects influencing disease susceptibility and outcome. The cardinal signs of leprosy are skin lesions with altered sensation, thickened peripheral nerves, and presence of alcohol acid‐resistant bacilli in skin biopsy or lymph. Confirmatory examinations include (1) bacteriological examination, which allows patients' classification into two operational groups, multibacillary (MB) and paucibacillary (PB); and (2) histopathological examination, which permits stratification in different clinical forms. These clinical forms differ not only by histopathology but also according to the host's immune response to M. leprae. These forms comprise the extremes of (1) tuberculoid leprosy (TT), with a specific Th1 response and control of M. leprae multiplication; (2) lepromatous leprosy (LL) without Th1 response and preserved Th2 response; and (3) the interpolar clinical forms, borderline tuberculoid (BT), borderline borderline (BB), borderline lepromatous (BL), and indeterminate form (IL). Appropriate treatment is based on smear examination or the number of lesions at diagnosis. In the evolution of leprosy, acute inflammation, known as reactions, may occur during or after treatment. These reactions are classified into two main types: the type I reaction or reversal reaction (RR), and the type II reaction or erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL). The role of innate immune response to control the infection is supported by immunological and genetic studies. Drug Dev Res 72:509–527, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Biosensor Based on Polyaniline‐Carbon Nanotube Core‐Shell for Electrochemical Detection of Pesticides
Authors: Cesarino Ivana , Moraes Fernando C. , Machado Sergio A. S.
Published: September 2011

A core‐shell structure based on polyaniline (PANI) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) films was electrodeposited on glassy carbon (GC) for the immobilization of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) as enzyme, in developing a biosensor for pesticides. The characterization and advantages of using the hybrid materials were examined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field‐emission gun scanning electron microscopy (FEG‐SEM), cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The immobilization of AChE on the surface of the electrode was largely improved due to the unique synergistic effect of PANI and MWCNT. The developed GC/MWCNT/PANI/AChE biosensor was evaluated for determination of carbamate by square wave voltammetry (SWV) and chronoamperometry. SWV allowed carbaryl to be determined in a linear range between 9.9 and 49.6 nmol L−1, with a detection limit of 4.6 nmol L−1 and using chronoamperometry the analytical curve was linear in the concentration ranges from 9.9 to 49.6 µmol L−1, with a detection limit of 1.4 µmol L−1.
High Electron Transfer Efficiency of Titania Dioxide Nanotube for Low Potential Electrochemiluminescent Biosensing
Authors: Liu Xuan , Hou Zhentao , Lei Jianping , Ju Huangxian , Cai Jingxuan , Shen Jianyi
Published: September 2011

Strong electrochemiluminescence (ECL) of titania dioxide nanotubes at physiological condition was observed, with relatively low cathodic potential due to its large surface area and high electron transfer efficiency. The coreactant of the ECL emission was proved to be H2O2, produced from the reduction of dissolved oxygen, leading to a mild ECL system for biosensing. Based on “coreactant inhibition” mechanism, the ECL quenchers could be measured by inhibiting the transformation of O2 to H2O2. Using hemoglobin as a model, the quenched ECL emission followed SternVolmer equation in a wide linear range. Thus a novel methodology for detection of “coreactant inhibition”‐related quencher could be developed with acceptable sensitivity.
The damped cable system for seismic protection of frame structures — Part I: General concepts, testing and modeling
Authors: Sorace Stefano , Terenzi Gloria
Published: September 2011

Research studies on the damped cable system (DCS) for seismic protection of frame structures are presented in this paper and the accompanying one. This technology includes prestressed steel cables linked to pressurized fluid viscous spring‐dampers fixed to the foundation at their lower ends, and to the top floor, or one of the upper floors, at their upper ends. The cables have sliding contacts with the floor slabs, to which they are joined by steel deviators. The general characteristics of the system, as well as of the constituting spring‐dampers and cables, are initially discussed. The results of a laboratory testing campaign developed on a DCS prototype are examined, and transferred into the formulation of the finite element model of the system, conceived to be easily generated by commercial structural analysis programs. A second dynamic experimental investigation follows, concerning a pilot installation of the system on a full‐scale mock‐up building. The benefits of the protective technology are evaluated in terms of maximum displacements and accelerations, as well as of equivalent viscous damping coefficient and MDOF transmissibility ratio. Further sections of the study, including a preliminary sizing criterion of DCS, additional numerical enquiries aimed at optimizing its geometrical layout, and the application to a real case study building, are offered in the companion paper. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collaborative Professional Education for Carers of Those with Eating Disorders
Authors: Haltom Cris , Ribeiro Rebecca , Potter Nancy
Published: September 2011

This paper describes the effectiveness of a 6‐hour education programme to provide skills, knowledge and support to carers about how to best support patients with eating disorders. Based on a philosophy of mutual and ongoing support and learning, this programme brought together community groups of professionals, carers and advocates to present and participate in the programme. Pretest and post‐test measures of the programme's effectiveness were administered to 81 participants (N = 81) across multiple‐programme presentations in different locations in the USA. A paired form of analysis showed significant effect sizes on carers' knowledge, skill and understanding of eating disorders. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Mercury distribution in the soil–plant–air system at the Wanshan mercury mining district in Guizhou, Southwest China
Authors: Wang Jianxu , Feng Xinbin , Anderson Christopher W.N , Zhu Wei , Yin Runsheng , Wang Heng
Published: September 2011

The level of mercury bioaccumulation in wild plants; the distribution of bioavailable Hg, elemental Hg, and total Hg in soil; and the concentration of total gaseous Hg (TGM) in ambient air was studied at three different mining sites (SiKeng [SK], WuKeng [WK], and GouXi [GX]) in the Wanshan mercury mining district of China. Results of the present study showed that the distribution of soil total Hg, elemental Hg, bioavailable Hg, and TGM varies across the three mining sites. Higher soil total Hg (29.4–1,972.3 mg/kg) and elemental Hg (19.03–443.8 mg/kg) concentrations were recorded for plots SK and WK than for plot GX. Bioavailable Hg was lower at plot SK and GX (SK, 3–12 ng/g; GX, 9–14 ng/g) than at plot WK (11–1,063 ng/g), although the TGM concentration in the ambient air was significantly higher for plot GX (52,723 ng/m3) relative to WK (106 ng/m3) and SK (43 ng/m3). Mercury in sampled herbage was elevated and ranged from 0.8 to 4.75 mg/kg (SK), from 2.17 to 34.38 mg/kg (WK), and from 47.45 to 136.5 mg/kg (GX). Many of the sampled plants are used as fodder or for medicinal purposes. High shoot Hg concentrations may therefore pose an unacceptable human health risk. Statistical analysis of the recorded data showed that the Hg concentration in plant shoots was positively correlated with TGM and that the Hg concentration in roots was positively correlated with the bioavailable Hg concentration in the soil. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) in the present study was defined with reference to the concentration of bioavailable Hg in the soil (Hg[root]/Hg[bioavail]). Three plant species, Macleaya cordata L., Achillea millefolium L., and Pteris vittata L., showed enhanced accumulation of Hg and therefore may have potential for use in the phytoremediation of soils of the Wanshan mining area. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2011;30:2725–2731. © 2011 SETAC
Toxicology rewrites its history and rethinks its future: Giving equal focus to both harmful and beneficial effects
Authors: Calabrese Edward J
Published: September 2011

This paper assesses how medicine adopted the threshold dose–response to evaluate health effects of drugs and chemicals throughout the 20th century to the present. Homeopathy first adopted the biphasic dose–response, making it an explanatory principle. Medicine used its influence to discredit the biphasic dose–response model to harm homeopathy and to promote its alternative, the threshold dose–response. However, it failed to validate the capacity of its model to make accurate predictions in the low-dose zone. Recent attempts to validate the threshold dose–response indicate that it poorly predicts responses below the threshold. The long marginalized biphasic/hormetic dose–response model made accurate predictions in these validation studies. The failure to accept the possibility of the hormetic-biphasic dose–response during toxicology's dose–response concept formative period, while adopting the threshold model, and later the linear no-threshold model for carcinogens, led toxicology to adopt a hazard assessment process that involved testing only a few very high doses. This created the framework that toxicology was a discipline that only studied harmful responses, ignoring the possibility of benefit at low doses by the induction of adaptive mechanisms. Toxicology needs to assess the entire dose–response continuum, incorporating both harmful and beneficial effects into the risk assessment process. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2011;30:2658–2673. © 2011 SETAC
Joint toxicity of a pyrethroid insecticide, cypermethrin, and a heavy metal, lead, to the benthic invertebrate Chironomus dilutus
Authors: Mehler W. Tyler , Du Juan , Lydy Michael J , You Jing
Published: September 2011

Insecticides and heavy metals are frequently detected in the environment, but few studies have assessed the joint toxicity of organic and inorganic contaminants. Joint toxicity of a pyrethroid insecticide, cypermethrin, and a heavy metal, Pb2+, was evaluated in the present study. An antagonistic toxic response was observed when the benthic invertebrate Chironomus dilutus was simultaneously exposed to the two contaminants in both water and sediment exposures. Pre-exposure bioassays with midges were also conducted, and toxicity of cypermethrin was significantly reduced for midges that were pre-exposed to Pb2+. In addition, the impact of Pb2+ on the bioavailability of cypermethrin to midges was measured using Tenax extraction. No significant difference was noted in the amount of Tenax-extractable cypermethrin when different amounts of Pb2+ were added to sediment. Results suggested that altered organism sensitivity may contribute to the observed antagonistic interaction between cypermethrin and Pb2+, whereas the influence of changes in toxicokinetic processes such as uptake, biotransformation, and elimination on the joint toxicity should be further studied. Finally, the decreased toxicity of cypermethrin when simultaneously applied with Pb2+ may be one reason for the overestimation of sediment toxicity by cypermethrin alone in field-collected sediment. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2011;30:2838–2845. © 2011 SETAC
Neural mechanisms underlying freedom to choose an object
Authors: Thimm Markus , Weidner Ralph , Fink Gereon R. , Sturm Walter
Published: September 2011

Previous brain imaging studies identified the neural networks underlying free choice of self‐initiated actions. In contrast, the neural mechanisms underlying free choice of external objects remain to be elucidated. In this event‐related functional magnetic resonance imaging study, participants had to choose one out of two different single‐colored target squares presented at two of three possible locations. In 50% of the trials the choice was either free or specified, which was indicated by a preceding cue. In order to disentangle processes associated with object choice from those related to motor responses, object‐response mapping was orthogonally varied. Processes related to the freedom of choice were isolated by means of an adaptive algorithm: based on the subjects individual choices in the free trials, specified trials were continuously generated in a way that matched the free trials in all aspects but the freedom to choose the object. Comparing free and specified trials revealed enhanced neural activity of a bilateral symmetrical network including the dorsolateral prefrontal, medial frontal, and medial parietal cortex. This network overlaps with that shown previously to be associated with free motor selection. It includes the pre‐supplementary motor area (pre‐SMA), suggesting that this area is rather associated with a supramodal function of initiating choice than with a specific motor function. Neural activity specifically associated with the freedom to choose an object was found bilaterally in the lateral superior parietal cortex. A psychophysiological interaction (PPI) analysis showed increased functional connectivity of this area with bilateral areas of the extrastriate visual cortex. Hum Brain Mapp, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
CHARACTERISATION OF PRODUCTIVITY LIMITATION OF SALT‐AFFECTED LANDS IN DIFFERENT CLIMATIC REGIONS OF EUROPE USING REMOTE SENSING DERIVED PRODUCTIVITY INDICATORS
Authors: Ivits E. , Cherlet M. , Tóth T. , Lewińska K. E. , Tóth G.
Published: September 2011

Soil salinity is a global issue and one of the major causes of land degradation. The large scale monitoring of salt‐affected areas is therefore very important to shed light on necessary rehabilitation measures and to avoid further land degradation. We address the productivity limitation of salt‐affected soils across the European continent by the usage of soil maps and high temporal resolution time series of satellite images derived from the SPOT vegetation sensor. Using the yearly dynamism of the vegetation signal derived from the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index, we decomposed the spectral curve into its base fraction and seasonal dynamism fractions next to an index approximating gross primary productivity. We observe gross primary productivity, base fraction and seasonal dynamism productivity differences of saline, sodic and not salt‐affected soils under croplands and grasslands in four major climatic zones of the European continent. Analysis of variance models and post hoc tests of mean productivity values indicate significant productivity differences between the observed salt‐affected and salt free areas, between management levels of soils as well as between the saline and sodic character of the land. The analysis gives insight into the limiting effect of climate in relation to the productivity of salt‐affected soils. The proposed indicators are applicable on the global level, are objective and readily repeatable with yearly updates, thus, might contribute to the global operational monitoring and assessment of degraded lands. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Films of Highly Disperse Electrodeposited Poly(N‐vinylcarbazole)–Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites
Authors: Santos Catherine M. , Tria Maria Celeste R. , Vergara Regina Aileen May V. , Cui Karina Milagros , Pernites Roderick , Advincula Rigoberto C.
Published: September 2011

The electrodeposition of polymer nanocomposite thin films of PVK–GO is demonstrated. Highly exfoliated and stable graphene oxide (GO) solutions are prepared by incorporating poly(N‐vinylcarbazole) (PVK) through mixing. Enhanced stability up to 30 d is observed in both aqueous and organic solvents. TGA, XRD, FTIR, and UV‐vis measurements confirm nanocomposite formation. CV enables electrodeposition of the films. The presence of GO on the PVK–GO surface is confirmed by the appearance of the C=O and OH stretching vibrations, attributed to the carboxylic and hydroxyl groups of GO. AFM measurements show homogeneous and well‐defined film morphology.
Enhancement of the actuation performance of dielectric triblock copolymers modified with additives
Authors: Jang Yeonju , Hirai Toshihiro , Ueki Takamitsu , Kato Toshinori
Published: September 2011

To enhance actuation performance without prestrain, an elastomeric acrylic triblock copolymer, poly(methyl methacrylate)‐block‐poly(n‐butyl acrylate)‐block‐poly(methyl methacrylate), was modified with two kinds of additives, oligomeric poly(n‐butyl acrylate) and the plasticizer dibutyl sebacate. An actuator modified with those additives showed about 6% strain, whereas the unmodified actuator showed only 1% strain for the same applied electric field without prestrain. In addition, actuation was attained at lower critical electric field strength (625 and 1000 V mm−1 for modified and unmodified actuators, respectively). Upon increasing the amounts of the additives, the electrically induced actuation velocity and degree of deformation increased. These results are explained by the dielectric and mechanical properties of the elastomers. The dielectric constants for elastomers modified with dibutyl sebacate were larger than those for elastomers modified with oligomeric poly(n‐butyl acrylate). The initial tensile stresses of both of the modified elastomers were much smaller than that of unmodified elastomer. The results provide a route to enhancing actuation performance of dielectric elastomers without prestrain. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Determining the non‐inferiority margin for patient reported outcomes
Authors: Gerlinger Christoph , Schmelter Thomas
Published: September 2011

One of the cornerstones of any non‐inferiority trial is the choice of the non‐inferiority margin delta. This threshold of clinical relevance is very difficult to determine, and in practice, delta is often “negotiated” between the sponsor of the trial and the regulatory agencies. However, for patient reported, or more precisely patient observed outcomes, the patients' minimal clinically important difference (MCID) can be determined empirically by relating the treatment effect, for example, a change on a 100‐mm visual analogue scale, to the patient's satisfaction with the change. This MCID can then be used to define delta.

We used an anchor‐based approach with non‐parametric discriminant analysis and ROC analysis and a distribution‐based approach with Norman's half standard deviation rule to determine delta in three examples endometriosis‐related pelvic pain measured on a 100‐mm visual analogue scale, facial acne measured by lesion counts, and hot flush counts.

For each of these examples, all three methods yielded quite similar results. In two of the cases, the empirically derived MCIDs were smaller or similar of deltas used before in non‐inferiority trials, and in the third case, the empirically derived MCID was used to derive a responder definition that was accepted by the FDA.

In conclusion, for patient‐observed endpoints, the delta can be derived empirically. In our view, this is a better approach than that of asking the clinician for a “nice round number” for delta, such as 10, 50%, π, e, or i. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Moracenin D from Mori Cortex Radicis Protects SH‐SY5Y Cells against Dopamine‐induced Cell Death by Regulating Nurr1 and α‐Synuclein Expression
Authors: Ham Ahrom , Lee Hak Ju , Hong Seong Su , Lee Dongho , Mar Woongchon
Published: September 2011

In our efforts to find neuroprotective materials of plant origin, several compounds were isolated from Mori Cortex Radicis. The protective effect against dopamine‐induced cell death was examined, and the subsequent effects on the levels of expression of Parkinson's disease‐associated nurr1 and α‐synuclein were evaluated in a dopamine‐induced system. Five compounds were isolated and moracenin D protected cell death against dopamine‐induction in human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cells. The effects of moracenin D on the levels of mRNA and protein expression of nurr1 and α‐synuclein were subsequently examined using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and western blot analysis. Treatment with moracenin D resulted in an up‐regulation of nurr1 mRNA levels and a down‐regulation of α‐synuclein mRNA levels. Additionally, the α‐synuclein protein expression was decreased in accordance with an increase in nurr1 protein expression. These results demonstrate that the protective effects of moracenin D were presumably due to the correlative effects on the up‐regulation of nurr1 and down‐regulation of α‐synuclein expressions against dopamine induction. Therefore, moracenin D can be considered as a candidate for therapy for Parkinson's disease. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Under what conditions does embedded convection enhance orographic precipitation?
Authors: Cannon Dirk J. , Kirshbaum Daniel J. , Gray Suzanne L.
Published: September 2011

Idealised convection‐permitting simulations are used to quantify the impact of embedded convection on the precipitation generated by moist flow over midlatitude mountain ridges. A broad range of mountain dimensions and moist stabilities are considered to encompass a spectrum of physically plausible flows. The simulations reveal that convection only enhances orographic precipitation in cap clouds that are otherwise unable to efficiently convert cloud condensate into precipitate. For tall and wide mountains (e.g. the Washington Cascades or the southern Andes), precipitate forms efficiently through vapour deposition and collection, even in the absence of embedded convection. When embedded convection develops in such clouds, it produces competing effects (enhanced condensation in updraughts and enhanced evaporation through turbulent mixing and compensating subsidence) that cancel to yield little net change in precipitation. By contrast, convection strongly enhances precipitation over short and narrow mountains (e.g. the UK Pennines or the Oregon Coastal Range) where precipitation formation is otherwise highly inefficient. Although cancellation between increased condensation and evaporation still occurs, the enhanced precipitation formation within the convective updraughts leads to a net increase in precipitation efficiency. The simulations are physically interpreted through non‐dimensional diagnostics and relevant time‐scales that govern advective, microphysical, and convective processes. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
A subchronic in situ exposure method for evaluating effects in small‐bodied fish at contaminated sites
Authors: Miller Jason L. , Sherry Jim , Parrott Joanne , Quinn James S.
Published: September 2011

In situ fish‐caging studies at contaminated sites can provide information that is more realistic compared to traditional laboratory‐based studies. However, few methods have been developed for exposing sentinel fish species for subchronic durations, and fewer still are optimized for exposing small‐bodied fish while maintaining fish health and growth throughout the caging trial. Those methods typically lack a feeding regimen during the fish caging trial. While that may be acceptable or even appropriate for typical short‐term toxicity testing, it does limit the duration of the exposure, and may not be suitable when post‐caging trials or observations are necessary. Returning healthy fish to the lab following the in situ exposure would be important, for example, in studies designed to examine long‐term or multigenerational effects following an in situ exposure. In this article we describe a subchronic method for caging small fish at contaminated sites while maintaining growth and reproductive development. Fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) were caged in situ for 6 weeks, after which time they were returned to the lab where they were evaluated for health and reproductive performance. Growth and reproductive endpoints revealed no adverse effect on fish due to fish caging and related handling, demonstrating the suitability of our caging and feeding method for long‐term caging studies. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 29: 54–63, 2014.
Slit versus Non‐slit Mesh Placement in Total Extraperitoneal Inguinal Hernia Repair
Authors: Domniz Noam , Perry Zvi Howard , Lantsberg Leonid , Avinoach Eliezer , Mizrahi Solly , Kirshtein Boris
Published: September 2011

Background

The goal of the present research was to study patients who underwent laparoscopic total extraperitoneal repair using slit and non‐slit mesh placement.

Methods

Patients who underwent laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair in our hospital between 2005 and 2009 were interviewed and examined. Surgery outcome, hernia recurrence, postoperative pain and time to return to normal physical activities, and surgery satisfaction were compared.

Results

During the study period 389 consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic groin hernia repair: 387 by the total extraperitoneal (TEP) approach and 2 by the TAPP approach. Six of the TEP patients were converted to TAPP. Eighty‐seven patients in the TEP group had slit mesh placement and 300 had non‐slit mesh placement. Mean follow‐up was 36 months (range: 6–66 months). At follow‐up, 387 patients responded to a request for interview and 277 were examined. The overall recurrence rate was 4.7%, the incidence of constant postoperative pain was 1.3%, the presence of permanent testicular pain was 2.8%, and patient satisfaction with the surgery was 94.5%. A significantly lower recurrence rate was found in the slit mesh group than in the non‐slit group (0.6% versus 5.9%; p < 0.003). There was no difference in the length of time until return to normal activities, patient satisfaction, and postoperative pain between the groups. Surgery time and the occurrence of testicular pain were significantly greater in the anatomic group.

Conclusions

Total extraperitoneal inguinal hernia repair with slit mesh placement is a safe technique with a very low recurrence rate and is superior to non‐slit mesh positioning.
Maternal dietary patterns in pregnancy and fetal growth in Japan: the Osaka Maternal and Child Health Study
Authors: Okubo Hitomi , Miyake Yoshihiro , Sasaki Satoshi , Tanaka Keiko , Murakami Kentaro , Hirota Yoshio ,   Osaka Maternal and Child Health Study Group
Published: September 2011

Maternal nutritional status during pregnancy is an important determinant of fetal growth. Although the effects of several nutrients and foods have been well examined, little is known about the relationship of overall maternal diet in pregnancy to fetal growth, particularly in non-Western populations. We prospectively examined the relationship of maternal dietary patterns in pregnancy to neonatal anthropometric measurements at birth and risk of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) birth among 803 Japanese women with live-born, singleton, term deliveries. Maternal diet in pregnancy was assessed using a validated, self-administered diet history questionnaire. Dietary patterns from thirty-three predefined food groups (g/4184 kJ) were extracted by cluster analysis. The following three dietary patterns were identified: the ‘meat and eggs’ (n 326), ‘wheat products’, with a relatively high intake of bread, confectioneries and soft drinks (n 303), and ‘rice, fish and vegetables’ (n 174) patterns. After adjustment for potential confounders, women in the ‘wheat products’ pattern had infants with the significantly lowest birth weight (P = 0·045) and head circumference (P = 0·036) among those in the three dietary patterns. Compared with women in the ‘rice, fish and vegetables’ pattern, women in the ‘wheat products’ pattern had higher odds of having a SGA infant for weight (multivariate OR 5·2, 95 % CI 1·1, 24·4), but this was not the case for birth length or head circumference. These results suggest that a diet high in bread, confectioneries, and soft drinks and low in fish and vegetables during pregnancy might be associated with a small birth weight and an increased risk of having a SGA infant.
Tolerance and safety evaluation ofN,N-dimethylglycine, a naturally occurring organic compound, as a feed additive in broiler diets
Authors: Kalmar Isabelle D. , Verstegen Martin W. A. , Maenner Klaus , Zentek Jurgen , Meulemans Godelieve , Janssens Geert P. J.
Published: September 2011

N,N-dimethylglycine (DMG) is a tertiary amino acid that naturally occurs as an intermediate metabolite in choline-to-glycine metabolism. The objective of the present trial was to evaluate tolerance, safety and bioaccumulation of dietary DMG in broilers when supplemented at 1 g and 10 g Na-DMG/kg. A feeding trial was conducted using 480 1-d-old broiler chicks that were randomly allocated to twenty-four pens and fed one of three test diets added with 0, 1 or 10 g Na-DMG/kg during a 39 d growth period. Production performance was recorded to assess tolerance and efficacy of the supplement. At the end of the trial, toxicity was evaluated by means of haematology, plasma biochemistry and histopathology of liver, kidney and heart (n12), whereas bioaccumulation was assessed on breast meat, liver, blood, kidney and adipose tissue (n8). Carcass traits were similar between the control and 1 g Na-DMG/kg feed groups (P>0·05), but the feed:gain ratio was significantly improved at 1 g Na-DMG/kg feed compared with the control or the 10-fold dose (P = 0·008). Histological examinations showed no pathological effects and results of haematology and plasma biochemistry revealed similar values between the test groups (P>0·05). Bioaccumulation occurred at the 10-fold dose, but the resulting DMG content in breast meat was comparable with, for instance, wheat bran and much lower than uncooked spinach. In conclusion, DMG at 1 g Na-DMG/kg improved the feed:gain ratio in broilers without DMG being accumulated in consumer parts. Furthermore, dietary supplementation with DMG up to 10 g Na-DMG/kg did not induce toxicity or impaired performance in broilers.
Attitudes to Work and Commerce in the Late Italian Renaissance: A Comparison between Tomaso Garzoni's La Piazza Universale and Leonardo Fioravanti's Dello Specchio Di Scientia Universale
Authors: Mocarelli Luca
Published: September 2011

This article compares two highly successful treatises written in the second half of the fifteenth century: Tomaso Garzoni's La piazza universale di tutte le professioni del mondo [The Universal Workplace of All the Professions in the World], and Leonardo Fioravanti's Dello specchio di scientia universale [On the Mirror of Universal Knowledge]. It examines how each of these books presented and considered commercial activities such as the manufacture and trading of silk and wool – which were of great importance to the Italian economy of the day – and other more humble occupations. This is an interesting comparison since Garzoni and Fioravanti personified two very different spirits of the Renaissance. The former was a learned man, anxious to construct a moralistic-literary monument, complete in every detail, while the latter was a great observer, intent on making full use of every kind of knowledge, even that which seemed lowly and contemptible.
Work Ethics and Work Valuations in a Period of Commercialization: Ming China, 1500–1644
Authors: Moll-Murata Christine
Published: September 2011

In global terms, Ming China was one of the largest of the economies and political entities that saw increasing integration. Between 1500 and 1650 it experienced a phase of commercialization that influenced perceptions and valuations of work in various ways. Taking a multi-layered approach, this study explores Confucian tenets that made a distinction between mental and physical work, and between four main occupational groups. It discusses earlier Buddhist perspectives on work which were still valid during the Ming period. Further, the legal regulations concerning work in the Ming penal code and the valuations of work and particular occupations in a contemporary literary source, a carpenter's handbook, and an agricultural guide are probed for direct and indirect evidence of the commodification of work in cities and in the countryside, and of gendered division of labour. A consideration of the usefulness of work songs for studying the self-expression of workers concludes the essay.
Transport costs and economic growth in a backward economy: the case of Peru, 1820-1920
Authors: Zegarra Luis Felipe
Published: September 2011

This paper analyses the system of transportation and discusses the effect of geography and transport infrastructure on transport costs and economic growth in Peru during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Using primary and secondary sources, I find that geography imposed difficult transport challenges on Peruvians during this period. There were no navigable rivers in coastal and highland regions, railroads were scarce and most roads were inadequate for wagons, sometimes even for horses and mules. As a result, transport costs were extremely high, which constituted a barrier to trade, reduced gains from specialisation and retarded economic growth. Therefore, high transport costs seem to be one important factor in explaining the low income levels of Peru in the early 20th century in spite of the country's large endowments of natural resources.
A typological perspective on negation in Finnish dialects
Authors: Miestamo Matti
Published: September 2011

This paper looks at negation in Finnish dialects from a typological perspective. The focus is on standard negation, i.e. the negation of declarative verbal main clauses. The dialectal variation that Finnish shows in its negative construction is examined in the light of current typological knowledge of the expression of negation. Developmental trends connected to the micro-typological variation are also discussed, Finnish dialects are compared with related and neighbouring languages, and relevant theoretical and methodological issues relating to the meeting point of typology and dialectology are addressed.
What Is Special About Human Rights?
Authors: Barry Christian , Southwood Nicholas
Published: September 2011

Human rights occupy a privileged position within contemporary politics. They are widely taken to constitute perhaps the most fundamental standards for evaluating the conduct of states with respect to persons residing within their borders. They are enshrined in numerous international documents, national constitutions, and treaties; and those that have been incorporated into international law are monitored and enforced by numerous international and regional institutional bodies. Human rights have been invoked to justify popular revolt, secession, large-scale political reform, as well as forms of international action ranging from the imposition of conditions on foreign assistance and loans to economic sanctions (as in South Africa and Burma) and military intervention (as in Kosovo and East Timor). Michael Ignatieff has gone so far as to claim that human rights have become “the major article of faith of a secular culture that fears it believes in nothing else,” and one might add that they are articles of faith of many non-secular cultures, too.
Citizenship in an Unequal World
Authors: Junn Jane
Published: September 2011

We inhabit a thoroughly globalized world. People are increasingly and visibly connected by a “World Wide Web,” by a world market, and by universalist discourses of human rights and democracy. At the same time, full citizenship in a political community—and the rights conferred by such citizenship—is an exclusive status that remains, remarkably, tied to accidents of birth and historical circumstance. And what one has a right to—gainful employment, education, health care, political voice, mere presence—is largely a function of whether one has the precious status of citizenship or is, alternatively, regarded as analien.Ayelet Shachar'sThe Birthright Lottery: Citizenship and Global Inequalityis a compelling account of the moral arbitrariness of this state of affairs. A study in “normative political theory,” it is a work of political science that incorporates legal theory, moral philosophy, political economy, and public policy. The author tackles issues of increasing global political importance—global disparities of wealth; unequal access to clear air, water, and a secure place to live; and the increasingly contentious politics of immigration and immigrant rights.

So it seems fitting to invite a range of political science scholars who work on these topics to comment on the book. The basic editorial charge of this symposium is thus straightforward: How do you assess Shachar's arguments and the attention she focuses on the phenomenon of “birthright lottery”? How does this argument bear upon the topics and approaches that characterize your own scholarship? And how do these topics and approaches shed light on the book and its arguments? While the focus of the symposium is this provocative book, the discussion of it should also be regarded as an opportunity to address the question of whether or not the bases of citizenship need to be fundamentally reconceived, and in what ways political science can and should contribute to such a rethinking.—Jeffrey C. Isaac, Editor
AIDS – the time for changes in law and policy is now
Authors: Schüklenk Udo , Philpott Sean
Published: September 2011

Existing policies on HIV testing were developed decades ago when HIV infection led nearly inevitably to AIDS and death. Since then rapid clinical progress has occurred. HIV infected people with access to life-preserving care and treatment no longer experience an existential threat to their life and wellbeing. HIV infection today, at least in North America and Western Europe, represents a chronic but manageable illness. Moreover, with treatment most infected people are rendered, to all intents and purposes, non-infectious. In this paper, we discuss the ethical, policy and legal implications of the changing clinical picture of HIV/AIDS. In particular, we propose significant changes to existing HIV testing policies as well as to policies pertaining to the criminalisation of infected people's sexual behaviour in North America and Western Europe.
Angiogenic growth factors in the diagnosis and prediction of pre-eclampsia
Authors: Verlohren Stefan , Stepan Holger , Dechend Ralf
Published: September 2011

The pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia is still not completely known; however, in the recent decade, there have been tremendous research efforts leading to impressive results highlighting the role of a disturbed angiogenic balance as one of the key features of the disease. Numerous studies have shown the key role of the placenta in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia. A shift in the sFlt-1 (soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1)/PlGF (placental growth factor) ratio is associated with the disease. Although pre-eclampsia seems to be a clearly defined disease, clinical presentation, and particularly the dynamics of the clinical course, can vary enormously. The only available tools to diagnose pre-eclampsia are blood pressure measurement and urine protein sampling. However, these tools have a low sensitivity and specificity regarding the prediction of the course of the disease or maternal and perinatal outcomes. The only cure for the disease is delivery, although a timely diagnosis helps in decreasing maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The sFlt1/PlGF ratio is able to give additional valuable information on the status and progression of the disease and is apt to be implemented in the diagnostic algorithm of pre-eclampsia. In the present review, we aim to provide an overview of the vast literature on angiogenesis and anti-angiogenesis factors in pre-eclampsia that have been published over the last decade. We introduce work from basic research groups who have focused on the pathophysiological basis of the disease. Furthermore, we review studies with a clinical focus in which the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio has been analysed along with other candidates for routine clinical assessment of pre-eclampsia.