bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Nucleotide Excision Repair in Human Fibroblasts Pre‐exposed to Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Cramers Patricia , Filon Alfred Ronald , Pines Alex , Kleinjans Jos C. , Mullenders Leon H. F. , van Zeeland Albert A.
Published: October 2011

Cellular protection against deleterious effects of DNA damaging agents requires an intricate network of defense mechanisms known as the DNA damage response (DDR). Ionizing radiation (IR) mediated activation of the DDR induces a transcriptional upregulation of genes that are also involved in nucleotide excision repair (NER). This suggests that pre‐exposure to X‐rays might stimulate NER in human cells. Here, we demonstrate in normal human fibroblasts that UV‐induced NER is augmented by pre‐exposure to IR and that this increased repair is accompanied by elevated mRNA and protein levels of the NER factors XPC and DDB2. Furthermore, when IR exposure precedes local UV irradiation, the presence of XPC and DDB2 at the sites of local UV damages is increased. This increase might be p53 dependent, but the mechanism of X‐ray specific stabilization of p53 is unclear as both X‐rays and UV stabilize p53.
Impacts of Climate Change on Hydrology and Water Resources in the Boise and Spokane River Basins1
Authors: Jin Xin , Sridhar Venkataramana
Published: October 2011

Jin, Xin and Venkataramana Sridhar, 2012. Impacts of Climate Change on Hydrology and Water Resources in the Boise and Spokane River Basins. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 48(2): 197‐220. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2011.00605.x

Abstract:  In the Pacific Northwest, warming climate has resulted in a lengthened growing season, declining snowpack, and earlier timing of spring runoff. This study characterizes the impact of climate change in two basins in Idaho, the Spokane River and the Boise River basins. We simulated the basin‐scale hydrology by coupling the downscaled precipitation and temperature outputs from a suite of global climate models and the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), between 2010 and 2060 and assess the impacts of climate change on water resources in the region. For the Boise River basin, changes in precipitation ranged from −3.8 to 36%. Changes in temperature were expected to be between 0.02 and 3.9°C. In the Spokane River region, changes in precipitation were expected to be between −6.7 and 17.9%. Changes in temperature appeared between 0.1 and 3.5°C over a period of the next five decades between 2010 and 2060. Without bias‐correcting the simulated streamflow, in the Boise River basin, change in peak flows (March through June) was projected to range from −58 to +106 m3/s and, for the Spokane River basin, the range was expected to be from −198 to +88 m3/s. Both the basins exhibited substantial variability in precipitation, evapotranspiration, and recharge estimates, and this knowledge of possible hydrologic impacts at the watershed scale can help the stakeholders with possible options in their decision‐making process.
Significance of Riverine Hypoxia for Fish: The Case of the Big Sunflower River, Mississippi1
Authors: Shields F. Douglas , Knight Scott S.
Published: October 2011

Shields, F. Douglas, Jr. and Scott S. Knight, 2011. Significance of Riverine Hypoxia for Fish: The Case of the Big Sunflower River, Mississippi. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 48(1): 170‐186. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2011.00606.x

Abstract:  Degraded streams draining low‐relief, intensively cultivated watersheds may experience periods of hypoxia or anoxia. A three‐year study of water chemistry, fish, and physical habitat in the Big Sunflower River in northwestern Mississippi coupled with continuously logged physicochemical and hydrology data provided by others showed prolonged periods of hypoxia associated with higher flows. Fish species richness was directly related to dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration (r2 = 0.35, p = 0.00004), and ordination using nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMS) indicated strong association between fish community structure and DO. Low‐head weirs supported relatively dense and diverse fish communities and thus provided local habitat enhancement, but may create stagnant zones upstream due to backwater effects that exacerbate low DO problems. Although hypoxia has been reported for some lightly degraded rivers and floodplains, our observations suggest hypoxia in Big Sunflower River and similar systems alters fish species composition and should be remediated. Cost‐effective remediation will require better understanding of autotrophic and heterotrophic processes that control DO and the relationship of these processes to discharge.
Favorable effects on metabolic risk factors with daily brewer’s yeast in type 2 diabetic patients with hypercholesterolemia: A semi‐experimental study
Authors: KHOSRAVI‐BOROUJENI Hossein , ROSTAMI Ali , RAVANSHAD Shahnaz , ESMAILLZADEH Ahmad
Published: October 2011

Background:  The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of brewer’s yeast on plasma glucose and lipid profiles in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods:  The present semi‐experimental study was performed on 55 T2D patients with hypercholesterolemia. All patients received 12 tablets of 300 mg yeast per day for 8 weeks. Each tablet contained 1.2 μg chromium. Fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein–cholesterol (HDL–C), low‐density lipoprotein–cholesterol (LDL–C), and triglyceride levels were measured at baseline and then again at Weeks 4 and 8.

Results:  Although there was a tendency for plasma glucose levels to decrease at Week 4, the difference failed to reach statistical significance (P = 0.065). However, after 8 weeks, the decrease in plasma glucose was significant (P = 0.043). Again, although there was a tendency for decreased plasma cholesterol at Week 8 compared with baseline, the difference failed to reach statistical significance (215 ± 29 vs 226 ± 37 mg/dL, respectively; P = 0.056). Brewer’s yeast significantly decreased plasma triglyceride and LDL–C levels at Weeks 4 and 8. In contrast, plasma HDL–C levels were significantly increased at both 4 and 8 weeks compared with baseline (41.3 ± 8.8 and 43.3 ± 7.5 vs 36 ± 5 mg/dL, respectively; P < 0.01 and P < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusion:  In conclusion, the consumption of brewer’s yeast over a period of 8 weeks may improve cardiometabolic risk factors in T2D patients. However, these findings need to be confirmed in a large double‐blind clinical trial.
Use of a proximal humeral internal locking system enhanced by injectable graft for minimally invasive treatment of osteoporotic proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients
Authors: Liu Zi‐zhang , Zhang Guang‐ming , Ge Tao
Published: October 2011

Objective:  To investigate the effect of treatment of osteoporotic proximal humeral fractures in elderly patients with a proximal humeral internal locking system (PHILOS) and minimally invasive injectable graft (MIIG).

Methods:  Patients who conformed to the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into two groups: group A (21 cases) were treated with PHILOS alone and group B (29 cases) were treated with PHILOS augmentation plus minimally invasive injectable graft (MIIG) X3 Hivisc. Postoperative follow‐up was performed regularly to check for complications, reduction loss and fracture healing by imaging. Shoulder joint function was scored and clinical results evaluated according to the Neer scoring system.

Results:  All patients were followed‐up and achieved fracture healing. The complication rate in group A (six cases) was greater than in group B (one case), the differences being statistically significant. The reduction loss in group A (2.9 ± 0.4 mm) was greater than in group B (1.5 ± 0.3 mm), this difference also being statistically significant. According to the Neer system, the excellent and good rate was 76.2% in group A and 82.8% in group B.

Conclusion:  PHILOS using MIPPO and augmented with MIIG X3 Hivisc produces satisfactory clinical results in aged patients with osteoporotic proximal humeral fractures and the method has advantages such as relatively minor trauma, stable fixation, fewer complications, and better joint function.
Dielectric performance of hybrid alumina-silicone nanolaminates synthesized by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Patel Rakhi P. , Chiavetta David , Wolden Colin A.
Published: October 2011

Plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) was used to deposit hybrid nanolaminates comprising silicone and alumina at low temperature. Hexamethyldisiloxane was used as the sole precursor for silicone, and alumina synthesis was accomplished via pulsed PECVD using trimethyl aluminum and oxygen. Digital control over the nanolaminate structure and composition was demonstrated through spectroscopic ellipsometry and cross-sectional microscopy. The dielectric performance of alumina–silicone nanolaminates was examined as a function of the dyad composition and thickness. The effective dielectric constant could be tuned between those of the parent compounds, achieving high specific capacitance values ranging from 20 to 80 nF/cm2. Current-voltage measurements showed that the leakage current was a strong function of the thickness of the individual alumina layers, and nanolaminates with Al2O3 layers >10 nm displayed excellent performance. The leakage current density at a field strength of 1 MV/cm was ∼10−9 A/cm2, whereas breakdown required applied electrical fields in excess of 5 MV/cm.
Recent Synchronous Radiation of a Living Fossil
Authors: Nagalingum N. S. , Marshall C. R. , Quental T. B. , Rai H. S. , Little D. P. , Mathews S.
Published: October 2011

Despite their ancient origin, the majority of extant cycad species radiated within the past 10 million years.
Encephalitozoonosis in rabbits – what we do and don't know
Authors: Keeble Emma
Published: October 2011

Encephalitozoon cuniculi infection is commonly diagnosed in pet rabbits and has been recognised for some time in farm and laboratory rabbits. It is an opportunistic pathogen of humans causing disease in immunosuppressed HIV‐positive patients and many other animal species, but the primary host is the rabbit where subclinical infections are common. While there is a wealth of literature on this disease in laboratory rabbits, much is still unknown about the disease in pet rabbits. Findings are often confusing and, in some instances, conflicting, making interpretation difficult, particularly with regard to the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. This article clarifies what we do and don't know about E cuniculi infection, focusing on diagnostic and treatment options. It also summarises recent developments and research into this disease, which may aid in the diagnosis of encephalitozoonosis in pet rabbits.
Frontal sinus depth at four landmarks in breeds of dog typically affected by sinonasal aspergillosis
Authors: Burrow R. , McCarroll D. , Baker M. , Darby P. , McConnell F. , Cripps P.
Published: October 2011

The objective of this study was to assess whether the frontal sinuses in dogs with aspergillosis and of breeds typically affected by this condition were deeper at a more caudal location. CT scans of the head performed at the Small Animal Teaching Hospital, University of Liverpool, between April 2007 and March 2009 for dogs diagnosed with aspergillosis (group 1) and unaffected dogs of similar breeds (group 2) were selected for study. Sinus depth was measured at four standardised locations from reconstructed images of these CT scans. Data were compared for differences in sinus depth between groups and between landmarks. No significant difference was found between measurements within individual dogs or for each of the various landmarks between groups. Difference in depth of the sinuses between landmarks was significant (P<0.001). Sinus depth was significantly greater at the more caudal landmarks and was shallowest at the previously recommended landmark for sinus entry. In 54 per cent of dogs, the frontal sinus depth measured less than or equal to 2 cm at one or more of the landmarks. Sinus entry at the deepest point will reduce the risk of accidentally damaging underlying structures. This may be approximately 1 cm caudal, in breeds of dog that typically develop aspergillosis, to a previously suggested landmark.
QUANTUM DISCORD IN THE THERMAL STATES OF A SPIN-STAR SYSTEM
Authors: MA XIAO SAN , ZHAO GUANG XING , ZHANG JIA YAN , WANG AN MIN
Published: October 2011

We investigate the quantum discord in the thermal states for a spin-star model consisting of three parties which include one central spin and the other two outer spins. Our results imply that the quantum correlation can be established between the two outer spins both of which interacting with the central spin independently. From the analysis, we find that the quantum discord and entanglement depends not only on the external magnetic field and the interaction strength but also on the anisotropy parameter and the temperature. Specially, the quantum discord is more robust than the quantum entanglement in the sense that the quantum discord lasts for higher temperatures than the entanglement does.
LEFT-HANDED MAXWELLIAN BEHAVIOR OF NATURAL MICA
Authors: SARKAR ADITI , GANGOPADHYAY ARNAB , SARKAR A.
Published: October 2011

In this work, meta-material like behavior of natural Mica are studied. This work makes an attempt to analyze the left-handed Maxwellian (LHM) properties of Mica. The investigations carried out on natural Mica specimen are optical reflectance, optical absorbance and DC current–voltage-characteristics (CVC). Optical reflectance of Mica sheet with plane polarized monochromatic light shows distinct difference with conventional theoretical results. The DC CVC also measured with complete electromagnetic shielding. There exists a clear difference in DC characteristic for presence and absence of stray electromagnetic fields. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS) analysis are also carried out for further analysis. The results obtained from the optical reflectance characteristics using polarized light indicate LHM behavior as may be found in a meta-material. Micro-structural and electrical analysis shows that it is a nano-structured layered material.
AGENT BASED STUDY OF SURPRISE ATTACKS: ROLES OF SURVEILLANCE, PROMPT REACTION AND INTELLIGENCE
Authors: SHANAHAN LINDA , SEN SURAJIT
Published: October 2011

Defending a confined territory from a surprise attack is seldom possible. We use molecular dynamics and statistical physics inspired agent-based simulations to explore the evolution and outcome of such attacks. The study suggests robust emergent behavior, which emphasizes the importance of accurate surveillance, automated and powerful attack response, building layout, and sheds light on the role of communication restrictions in defending such territories.
THE FLEXOR CARPI RADIALISBREVIS MUSCLE — AN ANOMALY IN FOREARM MUSCULATURE: A REVIEW ARTICLE
Authors: Ho S. Y. M. , Yeo C. J. , Sebastin S. J. , Tan T. C. , Lim A. Y. T.
Published: October 2011

The volar approach to the distal radius is an increasingly popular method of exposing fractures of the distal radius for purposes of reduction and internal fixation. We present five clinical cases and one cadaveric case of an incidental finding of an aberrant flexor of the forearm. A literature review undertaken showed few previous case reports of this relatively uncommon anatomic variant. The possibility of seeing the flexor carpi radialis brevis muscle during a volar approach to the distal radius should be made known to all orthopedic and hand surgeons.
SUPPURATIVE ARTHRITIS INVOLVING THE SYNCHONDROSIS OF AN OS ACROMIALE
Authors: Sadri Amir , Sarraf Khaled M. , Stafford Giles , Lavelle Jonathan
Published: October 2011

Os acromiale is an unfused epiphysis of the anterior part of the acromion occurring in approximately 8% of the population. Infection of this joint has not been previously described in the literature. We report such a case in a 59-year-old woman presenting with shoulder pain. A high index of clinical suspicion, with early imaging of the shoulder leading to prompt and definitive diagnosis, can lead to appropriate treatment and produce a favorable outcome.
MEDIAN NERVE PALSY: A COMPLICATION OF BRACHIAL ARTERY CARDIAC CATHETERIZATION
Authors: Ikeda Kazuo , Osamura Naoki
Published: October 2011

The patient, an 83-year-old male with ischemic cardiac disease, was examined using a periodical left brachial artery cardiac catheterization. Six hours after the examination, complete median nerve palsy appeared. Four months later, the median nerve was explored and found to be compressed by a hematoma in the brachial artery. The location of the hematoma was at 6 cm proximal to the puncturing point, because the catheter may have penetrated the brachial artery from the lumen. The median nerve was released and the hematoma removed. One year after surgery, the median nerve palsy had disappeared.
TRIANGULAR FLAPS: A MODIFIED TECHNIQUE FOR THE CORRECTION OF CONGENITAL CONSTRICTION RING SYNDROME
Authors: Tan Puay-Ling , Chiang Yuan-Cheng
Published: October 2011

Congenital constriction ring syndrome (CCRS) is a congenital anomaly with a wide spectrum of clinical presentation. The accepted method of correcting a circular constriction is to excise the deep part of the constriction, and break the line of the circular scar with multiple Z- or W-plasties. Specific correction of soft tissue is recommended concurrently, to better correct the "sandglass" deformity. Here we describe a new technique using triangular advancement flaps to correct the deformity in eight patients with constriction ring syndrome, involving either the upper or lower limbs. In this technique, triangular flaps can be introduced either proximal or distal to the ring, depending on the limb circumference, to correct the contour deformity. In all eight patients, a normal extremity contour was obtained, with complete elimination of the deformity caused by the constriction ring. A mean follow-up of 43 months revealed an aesthetically acceptable scar, with no case of recurrence. Triangular flaps designed either proximal or distal to the constriction ring is able to correct the contour deformity of the limbs with great versatility and acceptable aesthetic results.
CONTAGION RISK IN AN EVOLVING NETWORK MODEL OF BANKING SYSTEMS
Authors: LI SHOUWEI
Published: October 2011

This paper develops an analytical model of contagion risk in banking systems with tiered structure. It explores the respective effects of banking network structure and bank activity on contagion risk in banking network evolution. The findings suggest that increasing interbank connections is conducive to handling banking crisis and reducing the effect of contagion risk, but its positive effect is limited; raising bank reserve ratio will enhance the stability of individual banks to a certain extent, but it may immediately lead to liquidity problems for banks that have less excess reserves, causing the occurrence of contagion risk; an excessive drive for risk assets with high return may bring high risk to banks and lead to instability of banking systems; the bank risk preference is crucial to the stability of banking systems, and the radicalness of it may lead to greater systemic instability.
APPROXIMATION OF THE STATIONARY STATISTICAL PROPERTIES OF THE DYNAMICAL SYSTEM GENERATED BY THE TWO-DIMENSIONAL RAYLEIGH–BÉNARD CONVECTION PROBLEM
Authors: TONE FLORENTINA , WANG XIAOMING
Published: October 2011

In this article, we consider a temporal linear semi-implicit approximation of the two-dimensional Rayleigh–Bénard convection problem. We prove that the stationary statistical properties as well as the global attractors of this linear semi-implicit scheme converge to those of the 2D Rayleigh–Bénard problem as the time step approaches zero.
UNIFORM ASYMPTOTICS OF A SYSTEM OF SZEGÖ CLASS POLYNOMIALS VIA THE RIEMANN–HILBERT APPROACH
Authors: ZHOU JIAN-RONG , XU SHUAI-XIA , ZHAO YU-QIU
Published: October 2011

We study the uniform asymptotics of a system of polynomials orthogonal on [-1, 1] with weight function w(x) = exp {-1/(1 - x2)μ}, 0 < μ < 1/2, via the Riemann–Hilbert approach. These polynomials belong to the Szegö class. In some earlier literature involving Szegö class weights, Bessel-type parametrices at the endpoints ±1 are used to study the uniform large degree asymptotics. Yet in the present investigation, we show that the original endpoints ±1 of the orthogonal interval are to be shifted to the MRS numbers ±βn, depending on the polynomial degree n and serving as turning points. The parametrices at ±βn are constructed in shrinking neighborhoods of size 1 - βn, in terms of the Airy function. The polynomials exhibit a singular behavior as compared with the classical orthogonal polynomials, in aspects such as the location of the extreme zeros, and the approximation away from the orthogonal interval. The singular behavior resembles that of the typical non-Szegö class polynomials, cf. the Pollaczek polynomials. Asymptotic approximations are obtained in overlapping regions which cover the whole complex plane. Several large-n asymptotic formulas for πn(1), i.e. the value of the nth monic polynomial at 1, and for the leading and recurrence coefficients, are also derived.
AN ADVANCED ADAPTIVE FINITE ELEMENT CODE APPLIED FOR COATING-SUBSTRATE SIMULATION
Authors: LEOPOLD JÜRGEN , HELLER KATRIN , MEYER ARNDT , WOHLGEMUTH REINER
Published: October 2011

The stability of coating-substrate systems influences the chip formation and the surface integrity of the new generated workpiece surface, too. Using finite element (FE) simulation, deformations, strains and stresses in coated tools, caused by external and internal loads, can be computed on a microscopic scale. Since both, the whole macroscopic tool (in mm-scale) and the microscopic coating layers (in μm-scale up to nm-scale) must be included in the same geometrical simulation model, graded high-resolution FE meshes must be used. Nevertheless, the number of nodes in the 3D computational FE grid reaches some millions, leading to large computational time and storage requirements. For this reason, an advanced adaptive finite element (AAFEM) software has been developed and used for the simulation.
NORDHAUS–GADDUM-TYPE THEOREM FOR DIAMETER OF GRAPHS WHEN DECOMPOSING INTO MANY PARTS
Authors: AN ZHIHUA , WU BAOYINDURENG , LI DAOBIN , WANG YUN , SU GUIFU
Published: October 2011

Let Kn be the complete graph of order n, and k ≥ 2 any fixed integer. Assume (G1, G2,…,Gk) is a decomposition of Kn such that Gi is connected for each i = 1,…, k. We show that for any sufficiently large n, [Formula: see text], and that the bounds are best possible.
MINIMUM WEIGHT FEEDBACK VERTEX SETS IN CIRCLE n-GON GRAPHS AND CIRCLE TRAPEZOID GRAPHS
Authors: GAVRIL FANICA
Published: October 2011

A circle n-gon is the region between n or fewer non-crossing chords of a circle, no chord connecting the arcs between two other chords; the sides of a circle n-gon are either chords or arcs of the circle. A circle n-gon graph is the intersection graph of a family of circle n-gons in a circle. The family of circle trapezoid graphs is exactly the family of circle 2-gon graphs and the family of circle graphs is exactly the family of circle 1-gon graphs. The family of circle n-gon graphs contains the polygon-circle graphs which have an intersection representation by circle polygons, each polygon with at most n chords. We describe a polynomial time algorithm to find a minimum weight feedback vertex set, or equivalently, a maximum weight induced forest, in a circle n-gon graph with positive weights, when its intersection model by n-gon-interval-filaments is given.
CYCLES IN TRIANGLE-FREE GRAPHS
Authors: LI XIAOJUAN , WEI BING , ZHU YONGJIN
Published: October 2011

Let G be a k-connected (k ≥ 3), triangle-free graph with α(G) ≤ k + 1. If G is not Petersen graph and G ∉ {Kk, k, Kk, k + 1, Kk + 1, k+1}, then G contains cycles of lengths from 4 to |V(G)|. This generalizes a result conjectured by Amar et al. (Graphs Combin.7 (1991)) and proved by Lou (Discrete Math.152 (1996)).
AVERAGE-CASE ANALYSIS OF PERFECT SORTING BY REVERSALS
Authors: BOUVEL MATHILDE , CHAUVE CEDRIC , MISHNA MARNI , ROSSIN DOMINIQUE
Published: October 2011

Perfect sorting by reversals, a problem originating in computational genomics, is the process of sorting a signed permutation to either the identity or to the reversed identity permutation, by a sequence of reversals that do not break any common interval. Bérard et al. (2007) make use of strong interval trees to describe an algorithm for sorting signed permutations by reversals. Combinatorial properties of this family of trees are essential to the algorithm analysis. Here, we use the expected value of certain tree parameters to prove that the average run-time of the algorithm is at worst, polynomial, and additionally, for sufficiently long permutations, the sorting algorithm runs in polynomial time with probability one. Furthermore, our analysis of the subclass of commuting scenarios yields precise results on the average length of a reversal, and the average number of reversals.
THE EFFECTS OF THE GLOBAL CRISIS ON ISLAMIC AND CONVENTIONAL BANKS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Authors: HASAN MAHER , DRIDI JEMMA
Published: October 2011

This paper examines the performance of Islamic banks (IBs) and conventional banks (CBs) during the recent global crisis by examining the impact of the crisis on profitability, credit and asset growth, and external ratings in a group of countries where the two types of banks have significant market share. Our analysis suggests that IBs have been affected differently than CBs. Factors related to IBs' business model helped limit the adverse impact on profitability in 2008, while weaknesses in risk management practices in some IBs led to a larger decline in profitability in 2009 compared to CBs. IBs' credit and asset growth performed better than did that of CBs in 2008–2009, contributing to financial and economic stability. External rating agencies' re-assessment of IBs' risk was generally more favorable.
MANAGING CAPITAL FLOWS IN INTERMEDIATE REGIMES: THE CASE OF INDIA
Authors: KOHLI RENU
Published: October 2011

Managing capital flows is the key policy challenge for emerging economies like India in the aftermath of the crisis. In contrast to other emerging markets who are levying capital controls, India's macro-monetary framework is distinguished by significant restrictions that help manage inflows. Against this context, the paper characterises India's capital account management strategy through illustrating the 2006–2007 episode of capital inflows in the buildup to the global financial crisis. It shows how these restrictions allowed the authorities to straddle the open-economy trilemma and balance the exchange rate and price stability objectives. It offers relevant evidence on the effectiveness of India's capital controls in retaining monetary autonomy.
RANDOM COVARIANCE MATRICES: UNIVERSALITY OF LOCAL STATISTICS OF EIGENVALUES UP TO THE EDGE
Authors: WANG KE
Published: October 2011

We study the universality of the eigenvalue statistics of the covariance matrices [Formula: see text] where M is a large p × n matrix with independent entries that have mean zero, variance one and sufficiently high finite moments. In particular, as an application, we prove a variant of universality results regarding the smallest singular value of Mp, n. This paper is an extension of the results of Tao and Vu (2009) from the bulk of the spectrum up to the edge.
MSTNgenotype (g.66493737C/T) association with speed indices in Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: Hill Emmeline W. , Fonseca Rita G. , McGivney Beatrice A. , Gu Jingjing , MacHugh David E. , Katz Lisa M.
Published: October 2011

Sequence variation at the equine myostatin gene ( MSTN) locus has previously been shown to have a singular genomic influence on optimum race distance in Thoroughbred racehorses. Myostatin, encoded by the MSTN gene, is a member of the TGF-β superfamily that regulates skeletal muscle development in a range of mammalian species including the horse. In the Thoroughbred, the C-allele at the g.66493737C/T SNP has been found at significantly higher frequency in subgroups of the population that are suited to fast, short distance, sprint races and also influences body composition phenotypes. We investigated the influence of the g.66493737C/T SNP on speed indexes measured in a cohort of n = 85 Thoroughbred horses-in-training. We found significant associations between genotypes at the g.66493737C/T SNP and all measured speed variables: Dist6[distance travelled during 6 s before and after maximal velocity (Vmax); P = 0.0040], Vmaxt(duration at Vmax; P = 0.0249), Vmax( P = 0.0265), Dist6b(distance travelled during 6 s before Vmax; P = 0.0032), and Dist6a(distance travelled during 6 s after Vmax; P = 0.0317). For each measure, horses with the C/C and C/T genotypes outperformed T/T horses, indicating the requirement for at least one C-allele to improve speed. For the most significantly associated variables (Dist6and Dist6b) the C/C cohort performed better than the T/T cohort with the heterozygotes intermediate, indicating a dose-dependent manifestation. These findings clearly indicate that variation at the MSTN gene influences speed in Thoroughbred horses.
Characterization of Alisertib (MLN8237), an Investigational Small-Molecule Inhibitor of Aurora A Kinase Using Novel In Vivo Pharmacodynamic Assays
Authors: Manfredi Mark G. , Ecsedy Jeffrey A. , Chakravarty Arijit , Silverman Lee , Zhang Mengkun , Hoar Kara M. , Stroud Stephen G. , Chen Wei , Shinde Vaishali , Huck Jessica J. , Wysong Deborah R. , Janowick David A. , Hyer Marc L. , LeRoy Patrick J. , Gershman Rachel E. , Silva Matthew D. , Germanos Melissa S. , Bolen Joseph B. , Claiborne Christopher F. , Sells Todd B.
Published: October 2011

Purpose: Small-molecule inhibitors of Aurora A (AAK) and B (ABK) kinases, which play important roles in mitosis, are currently being pursued in oncology clinical trials. We developed three novel assays to quantitatively measure biomarkers of AAK inhibition in vivo. Here, we describe preclinical characterization of alisertib (MLN8237), a selective AAK inhibitor, incorporating these novel pharmacodynamic assays.

Experimental Design: We investigated the selectivity of alisertib for AAK and ABK and studied the antitumor and antiproliferative activity of alisertib in vitro and in vivo. Novel assays were used to assess chromosome alignment and mitotic spindle bipolarity in human tumor xenografts using immunofluorescent detection of DNA and alpha-tubulin, respectively. In addition, 18F-3′-fluoro-3′-deoxy-l-thymidine positron emission tomography (FLT-PET) was used to noninvasively measure effects of alisertib on in vivo tumor cell proliferation.

Results: Alisertib inhibited AAK over ABK with a selectivity of more than 200-fold in cells and produced a dose-dependent decrease in bipolar and aligned chromosomes in the HCT-116 xenograft model, a phenotype consistent with AAK inhibition. Alisertib inhibited proliferation of human tumor cell lines in vitro and produced tumor growth inhibition in solid tumor xenograft models and regressions in in vivo lymphoma models. In addition, a dose of alisertib that caused tumor stasis, as measured by volume, resulted in a decrease in FLT uptake, suggesting that noninvasive imaging could provide value over traditional measurements of response.

Conclusions: Alisertib is a selective and potent inhibitor of AAK. The novel methods of measuring Aurora A pathway inhibition and application of tumor imaging described here may be valuable for clinical evaluation of small-molecule inhibitors. Clin Cancer Res; 17(24); 7614–24. ©2011 AACR.
Heregulin Expression and Prognosis in Prostate Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Grimsley S.J.S. , Shini S. , Underwood M.A. , Edwards J.
Published: October 2011

Background: Heregulins (HRG) are a family of growth factors acting as ligands to HER3, HER4 and HER family signalling. HRG has a concentration-dependent differential growth effect – low levels mitogenic, high levels inhibitory. HRG differentially affects hormone-naïve (inhibitory) and castrate- resistant (proliferative) prostate adenocarcinoma (CaP) cell lines. We postulate that differential HRG expression in CaP will be associated with alteration in tumour growth, development and prognosis. Patients and Methods: HRG expression was assessed in 2 cohorts: cohort 1 of 45 patients with paired hormone-naïve and castrate-resistant samples, and cohort 2 of 357 hormone-naïve samples. Correlations between HRG expression and biochemical relapse and survival were determined. Results: In cohort 1, hormone-naïve samples’ high membranous HRG expression was associated with increased time to relapse (p = 0.036), time to death from relapse (p = 0.002) and overall survival (p = 0.001). Membrane HRG fell significantly in post-relapse specimens. In cohort 2, high membranous HRG was associated with increased time to relapse (p = 0.004) and overall survival (p = 0.044) in patients treated with castration therapy but only with overall survival (p = 0.002) in the full cohort. Conclusion: High HRG expression is associated with improved prognosis in hormone-naïve CaP and a fall in expression occurs at castration escape indicating a protective role against castrate resistance.
Ureterorenoscopy: Avoiding and Managing the Complications
Authors: D’Addessi Alessandro , Bassi PierFrancesco
Published: October 2011

Retrograde exploration of the ureter and kidneys is currently a widely used and well-established procedure to deal with problems of a diagnostic and therapeutic nature with reduced invasiveness. The process of miniaturizing the instruments combined with the steady improvement in video quality has continuously amplified its potential applications, maintaining the procedure safe and rapid. During an operation, however, unexpected events may condition a change to the programme or determine the onset of even more serious complications. Our aim is to analyze such events and complications and recommend potential solutions to prevent and/or deal with such happenings.
Changes of Stage, Predictive Factors and Adjuvant Treatment Modalities in Seminomatous Testicular Cancer from 1987 to 2007 and Their Impact on the Status of Metastasis, Recurrence-Free and Overall Survival: A Single-Center Analysis
Authors: Heinzelbecker Julia , Katzmarzik Michaela , Weiss Christel , Trojan Lutz , Michel Maurice S. , Haecker Axel
Published: October 2011

Introduction: To observe the changing presentation of seminomatous testicular cancer (STC), placing particular emphasis on predictive factors with a view to evaluating their impact on the status of metastasis, recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OAS). Materials and Methods: 180 patients with STC were evaluated retrospectively. Four study periods were generated and compared for changes. The data were analyzed for predictive factors for metastasis. Mean follow-up was 83 months (range 10–246, patients alive = 146). Results: The number of STC patients increased constantly throughout 2007. From 1992 onwards, significantly more patients were diagnosed as being in CS1 (p = 0.001). The odds ratio (OR) of metastasis was significantly higher for pT3 than pT2 STC (OR 12.4 vs. 1.7; p = 0.003); pT1 tumors showed a lower risk factor. The 10- and 15-year RFS were 91 and 85%, respectively. Patients in clinical stages higher than CS1 (CS>1) had significantly reduced RFS (p < 0.001). The 5- and 10-year OAS were 97 and 96%, respectively. Patients in CS>1 had significantly reduced OAS rates (p = 0.013). Conclusions: The number of STC cases is increasing, particularly in the case of patients in CS1. This emphasizes the need for surveillance regimens and makes the evaluation of predictive factors for metastasis, recurrence and survival essential.
Real-Time MRI of Continent and Stress Incontinent Male Patients after Orthotopic Ileal Neobladder
Authors: Bauer Ricarda M. , Herrmann Karin , Karl Alexander , Stief Christian G. , Hocaoglu Yasmin
Published: October 2011

Introduction: The aim of this study was to correlate anatomic differences with continence status in male patients after cystoprostatectomy and ileal neobladder using real-time magnetic resonance imaging. Patients and Methods: Anatomic differences of 14 male patients (7 daytime continent and 7 stress incontinent) with ileal neobladder were determined by measuring the orthogonal distance of the bladder neck to the pubococcygeal line (PCL) to correlate anatomic differences with continence status. Results: The median distance of the bladder neck to PCL was +5.4 mm in continent patients before voiding whereas in incontinent patients it was +2 mm (p = 0.012). During the Valsalva maneuver, the median distance in continent patients was +4 and in incontinent patients –3 mm (p = 0.003). At the end of micturition, the median distance was +2.3 mm in continent patients and –12 mm in incontinent patients (p = 0.002). Conclusions: The bladder neck in incontinent patients showed more pronounced mobility in relation to the PCL during micturition and the Valsalva maneuver as compared to continent patients. In addition, the ileal neobladder was positioned significantly lower in the pelvis of incontinent patients. These preliminary results suggest that a stable bladder neck may be an important factor to reach full continence in patients with ileal neobladder.
Acne Management in Japan: Study of Patient Adherence
Authors: Miyachi Yoshiki , Hayashi Nobukazu , Furukawa Fukumi , Akamatsu Hirohiko , Matsunaga Kayoko , Watanabe Shinichi , Kawashima Makoto
Published: October 2011

Obtaining good adherence to acne therapy is a challenge for all dermatologists. We studied 428 acne patients in Japan to determine the likelihood of good adherence and factors associated with medication-taking. This study utilized a simple validated questionnaire to assess risk of poor adherence; information about patient and treatment characteristics was also collected. There was an overall rate of poor adherence in 76% of subjects. Adherence to topical medication was poor in 52% of those treated with a topical agent only (n = 123). Among those taking combination therapies (n = 275), adherence to the topical portion of therapy was poor in 49% of subjects. The likelihood of poor adherence to oral medication was higher, both when administered alone (n = 30, 93% poor adherence) and when given as part of a combination regimen (n = 275, 86%). Factors with an impact on adherence included satisfaction with treatment (p = 0.023) and the experience of side effects (p = 0.027). Patients who felt they had a good understanding of acne and its treatment were more likely to have good adherence. These data suggest that there is significant room for improvement in acne adherence in Japan, as in other areas of the world, and that improved education may enhance adherence.
Across a thick white line: The relationship of a Welsh medium school and a low income neighbourhood in the south Wales valleys
Authors: Tannock Stuart
Published: October 2011

Two of the most important social policy agendas of the Welsh state in the contemporary period are the attempt to revitalize the Welsh language – through the promotion of Welsh medium education, in particular – and the effort to eliminate regional inequality and poverty – most recently, through the government’s Communities First programme. This article recounts the history of a cool and sometimes fractious relationship between a Welsh medium secondary school and a low income, Communities First neighbourhood in the south Wales valleys, in order to highlight some limitations in each of these agendas, and the problems that can arise when these agendas have not been fully integrated. The disconnection between the projects of language revitalization and neighbourhood regeneration may be seen as a local manifestation of a more general split, in Wales as elsewhere today, between what Nancy Fraser calls a ‘politics of recognition’ and a ‘politics of redistribution’.
Institutional heterogeneity in globalization: Co-development of western-allopathic medicine and traditional-alternative medicine
Authors: Shim Jae-Mahn , Bodeker Gerard , Burford Gemma
Published: October 2011

Are globalized social interactions accompanied by homogeneous or heterogeneous institutions? Which social factors are at work in each case? As an investigation of this cultural-institutional aspect of globalization, this article reflects on relationships between traditional-alternative medicine (TAM) and western-allopathic medicine (WAM) through a quantitative cross-national analysis. First, it is found that the global scene of medical institutional developments is characterized by institutional heterogeneity in which locally diverse TAMs develop simultaneously with WAM. This co-development relationship supports the heterogeneity thesis over the homogeneity thesis regarding the global character of national institutional developments. Second, this heterogeneous institutional arrangement is found to be stronger with a rising mortality burden. Third, this medical institutional heterogeneity is yet open to an antithetical development toward homogenization, depending on the extent to which the world polity pressure for WAM develops. However, the authors suggest a qualification of any notion of the unconditional significance of the world polity’s homogenizing force.
Painted lines
Authors: Brown Heather
Published: October 2011

Preservation, the safeguarding of collections for the future, is a key area of convergence for libraries, archives, museums and other memory institutions. This applies to the preservation of ‘traditional’ physical collections as well as to preservation in the new digital world. Preservation management is essentially a ‘way of seeing,’ providing the framework that underpins and guides the different strategies for safeguarding collections. Using the metaphor of connected ‘painted lines’, this paper explores how the principle of an interconnected ‘way of seeing’ can potentially shape practical and effective preservation strategies that traverse the digital and physical worlds.
Digital preservation
Authors: Katre Dinesh
Published: October 2011

This article emphasizes the need to address the converging as well as diverging factors of Libraries, Archives and Museums (LAMs) for expanding the scope of proposed convergence beyond integrated access. While thinking about this convergence we must protect the role, focus, scope and identities of these disciplines rather than treating them as the same thing referred to by different terminologies. Such a mixed approach has been manifested in many generalized software solutions which loosely claim to manage archives, museums, libraries and repositories together. The courses on museology, archives, library and information science offered in India and elsewhere are found to be at different phases of evolution in terms of integration of digital preservation methods. We have performed gap analysis of digitalization in libraries, archives and museums from the Indian perspective and a set of actions are proposed to bridge this gap.
The digital divide among the college students of Kashmir, India
Authors: Loan Fayaz Ahmad
Published: October 2011

The present study aims to identify the digital divide among the college students of Kashmir Valley and suggest possible solutions to bridge the gap. The survey method was applied to conduct the research and questionnaire was used as a data collection tool. The results reveal that there is a wide digital divide among the college students of Kashmir. The data shows that male students use the Internet more than females, and urban more than their rural counterparts. Among the different faculties, the students of computer science make use of the Internet most of all and social sciences and humanities students the least. The students who do not use the Internet state many reasons like the lack of Internet facilities in colleges, homes and localities, lack of access, lack of training, lack of awareness, lack of interest, no need, external threat and many others. The possible suggestions are recommended to bridge the gap.
Deformation analysis of short glass fiber-reinforced polypropylene injection-molded plastic parts
Authors: Sikló B. , Cameron K. , Kovács J.G.
Published: October 2011

The warpage of injection-molded plastic parts is a complex problem being affected by different technological parameters, material properties, and mold design. Hence, the description of the deformation is difficult as well. This article presents the effect of fiber content and mold temperature difference on the deformation of polypropylene parts. Based on the measurement results, a linear approximation and a calculation method are shown, which can be used to jointly determine the ideal fiber content and mold temperature difference to produce undeformed plastic parts.
Linear time-dependent reference intervals where there is measurement error in the time variable - a parametric approach
Authors: Gillard Jonathan
Published: October 2011

This article re-examines parametric methods for the calculation of time specific reference intervals where there is measurement error present in the time covariate. Previous published work has commonly been based on the standard ordinary least squares approach, weighted where appropriate. In fact, this is an incorrect method when there are measurement errors present, and in this article, we show that the use of this approach may, in certain cases, lead to referral patterns that may vary with different values of the covariate. Thus, it would not be the case that all patients are treated equally; some subjects would be more likely to be referred than others, hence violating the principle of equal treatment required by the International Federation for Clinical Chemistry. We show, by using measurement error models, that reference intervals are produced that satisfy the requirement for equal treatment for all subjects.
Concepts of politics in securitization studies
Authors: Pram Gad Ulrik , Lund Petersen Karen
Published: October 2011

The article argues that there are a number of concepts of politics in play in the current debates on securitization theory and that greater awareness regarding these conceptual differences helps clarify not only theoretical differences but also the possibilities for new theoretical development and reflection. The article identifies three conversations on politics: first, a conversation on how politics concerns action and intentionality; second, a conversation on the modern organization of politics, spheres and sectors; and, third, a conversation on the relationship between politics, ethics and science. Where the first and third conversations refer to politics as an act, in the second conversation politics is inherently tied to the institutional or spatial structures of government – the state, the public, the political field, spheres, sectors or function.
Security, the translation
Authors: Stritzel Holger
Published: October 2011

This article confronts the basic idea of securitization with the concept of translation. By critically examining Wæver’s deliberately traditionalist and essentialist conceptualization of security and his notion of a distinctly speech-act-theoretical approach to securitization, it develops a processual refinement that reads articulations of security as translations. I claim that this conceptual transposition has the potential to open the current securitization discourse to an alternative perspective and to new avenues of research on the travel, localization and/or gradual evolution/transformation of security meanings.