bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of oxygen isotopic anomaly in terrestrial atmospheric carbonates and its implications to Mars
Authors: Shaheen R. , Abramian A. , Horn J. , Dominguez G. , Sullivan R. , Thiemens Mark H.
Published: November 2010

The debate of life on Mars centers around the source of the globular, micrometer-sized mineral carbonates in the ALH84001 meteorite; consequently, the identification of Martian processes that form carbonates is critical. This paper reports a previously undescribed carbonate formation process that occurs on Earth and, likely, on Mars. We identified micrometer-sized carbonates in terrestrial aerosols that possess excess
17
O (0.4–3.9‰). The unique O-isotopic composition mechanistically describes the atmospheric heterogeneous chemical reaction on aerosol surfaces. Concomitant laboratory experiments define the transfer of ozone isotopic anomaly to carbonates via hydrogen peroxide formation when O
3
reacts with surface adsorbed water. This previously unidentified chemical reaction scenario provides an explanation for production of the isotopically anomalous carbonates found in the SNC (shergottites, nakhlaites, chassignites) Martian meteorites and terrestrial atmospheric carbonates. The anomalous hydrogen peroxide formed on the aerosol surfaces may transfer its O-isotopic signature to the water reservoir, thus producing mass independently fractionated secondary mineral evaporites. The formation of peroxide via heterogeneous chemistry on aerosol surfaces also reveals a previously undescribed oxidative process of utility in understanding ozone and oxygen chemistry, both on Mars and Earth.
Choosing the best tools for comparative analyses of texts
Authors: Mollet Eugène , Wray Alison , Fitzpatrick Tess , Wray Naomi R. , Wright Margaret J.
Published: November 2010

What measurements should linguists use when comparing texts written by different writers? We report aspects of a systematic evaluation of 381 different language measures derived from 200 analytic tools, carried out during the pilot for a study exploring genetic contributions to language variation. The measures covered lexis, structure, meaning, and discourse features, and were evaluated with a focus on capturing numerically the qualitative features that linguists consider central to differentiating one text from another. We review principles for selecting analytic tools, and the choices faced by the researcher in processing and analysing data. We then identify and demonstrate five of the measures, which between them provide a useful profile of different linguistic features, and note correlations with psychometric measures taken for each writer. We conclude with some caveats regarding general issues of validity and some indications about potential links between our work and research into authorship attribution for forensic purposes
Between Orient and Occident
Authors: Kaposi David
Published: November 2010

This paper revisits the fabled yet substantially neglected public exchange between Hannah Arendt and Gershom Scholem in the wake of Arendt’s publication of the book Eichmann in Jerusalem. Analyzing the central concept of the correspondence, Ahabath Israel, the paper investigates what may be considered two diametrically opposed constructions of Jewish identity and politics. Scholem’s particularistic “politics of continuity” is analyzed in terms achieving continuity or even unity between past and present, the sacred and the secular. This construction is supported by his ultimate dividing line being between the Jewish and non-Jewish, where his correspondent’s place is constructed outside the boundaries of the group. In turn, Arendt introduces the rigidly universalist constitutive categories of post-Enlightenment liberal democracies, where the firm demarcation is drawn exactly between the sacred and secular, the religious and the politics. Consequently, the intrusion of a religious tradition is understood by her as an attempt by Scholem to render otherwise earthly objects beyond the limits of criticism, manifesting not only a racist but a downright totalitarian tendency. Having presented these radical positions — Occidentalism and Orientalism, respectively —, the paper will conclude with pondering the possibility of their reconciliation.
Cep152 interacts with Plk4 and is required for centriole duplication
Authors: Hatch Emily M. , Kulukian Anita , Holland Andrew J. , Cleveland Don W. , Stearns Tim
Published: November 2010

Centrioles are microtubule-based structures that organize the centrosome and nucleate cilia. Centrioles duplicate once per cell cycle, and duplication requires Plk4, a member of the Polo-like kinase family; however, the mechanism linking Plk4 activity and centriole formation is unknown. In this study, we show in human and frog cells that Plk4 interacts with the centrosome protein Cep152, the orthologue of Drosophila melanogaster Asterless. The interaction requires the N-terminal 217 residues of Cep152 and the crypto Polo-box of Plk4. Cep152 and Plk4 colocalize at the centriole throughout the cell cycle. Overexpression of Cep152 (1–217) mislocalizes Plk4, but both Cep152 and Plk4 are able to localize to the centriole independently of the other. Depletion of Cep152 prevents both normal centriole duplication and Plk4-induced centriole amplification and results in a failure to localize Sas6 to the centriole, an early step in duplication. Cep152 can be phosphorylated by Plk4 in vitro, suggesting that Cep152 acts with Plk4 to initiate centriole formation.
Menthol cigarettes and smoking cessation among racial/ethnic groups in the United States
Authors: Trinidad Dennis R. , Pérez‐Stable Eliseo J. , Messer Karen , White Martha M. , Pierce John P.
Published: November 2010

Aim  To examine the association between smoking mentholated cigarettes and smoking cessation, separately for different racial/ethnic groups.

Design  Secondary data analysis of the 2003 and 2006–07 Tobacco Use Supplements to the Current Population Survey.

Setting  United States.

Participants  African American, Asian American/Pacific Islander, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, non‐Hispanic white adults.

Measurements  Examined relations between the use of mentholated cigarettes and measures of smoking cessation.

Findings  Among African Americans (ORadj = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.35–1.95) and Hispanics/Latinos (ORadj = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.00–1.47), those who currently smoked mentholated cigarettes were more likely be seriously considering quitting in the next six months than were non‐menthol smokers, after adjusting for sociodemographic factors. African Americans (ORadj = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.60–2.19) and Hispanics/Latinos (ORadj = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.11–1.62) who smoked mentholated cigarettes were also significantly more likely to have a positive estimation of successfully quitting in the next six months compared to non‐menthol smokers. These associations were not found among Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, Native Americans/Alaska Natives and Non‐Hispanic Whites. Among former smokers, across racial/ethnic groups, those who smoked mentholated cigarettes (vs. non‐menthols) were significantly less likely to have successfully quit for at least six months: African Americans (ORadj = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.17–0.31), Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders (ORadj = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.11–0.45), Hispanics/Latinos (ORadj = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.34–0.69) and Non‐Hispanic Whites (ORadj = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.25–0.33).

Conclusion  Across race/ethnic groups, those who used to regularly smoke mentholated cigarettes were less likely to have experienced long‐term quitting success. Cessation programs should consider the type of cigarette typically smoked by participants, particularly menthols.
The effect of octreotide on human gastric compliance and sensory perception
Authors: MERTZ H. , WALSH J. H. , SYTNIK B. , MAYER E. A.
Published: November 2010

Somatostatin or its analogue octreotide (OCT) has previously been shown to modulate gastric emptying, intestinal motor activity and visceral sensation. In the current study we sought to determine the effect of a single dose of OCT (1.25 μg kg−1 s.c.), which has previously been shown to have both motor and sensory effects, on proximal gastric compliance and on conscious perception of gastric distention. Gastric distention was performed in 13 healthy male volunteers, by either slow ramp distention (60 ml min−1) or by intermittent pressure steps (phasic distention; 4–20 mmHg) using an electronic distention device. Compliance curves (pressure–volume relationship), and thresholds for innocuous (fullness) and noxious sensations (discomfort, pain) were determined following vehicle or OCT injection. OCT consistently and significantly reduced the rate of the gastric accommodation reflex by 50%, resulting in a reduced compliance at distention pressures greater than 10 mmHg during phasic distention. In contrast, no effect was observed on the compliance curve obtained during ramp distention. OCT selectively increased the threshold for fullness during both ramp and phasic distention. During phasic distention, OCT decreased the volume thresholds for noxious (pain) sensations experienced at volumes greater than 300 ml, without affecting the corresponding pressure threshold. These findings suggest that at low distension volumes, OCT in the dosage used has a direct inhibitory effect on afferents mediating innocuous gastric sensations. The hyperalgesic effect observed during phasic distention may be secondary to OCT's inhibitory effect on the gastric accommodation reflex.
Effect of casein and casein hydrolysate on small bowel motility and D‐Xylose absorption in dogs
Authors: Defilippi Carlos , GÓMEZ E.
Published: November 2010

Abstract Food administration is followed by the appearance of a small intestinal pattern of irregular contractions. Studies on the relationship between intestinal motor activity, transit and absorption have yielded contradictory results. Since previous studies have shown that casein and casein hydrolysate led to a decrease of small intestinal motor activity and transit, the aim was to evaluate the effect of these nutrients on small intestinal motility and D‐Xylose absorption. Studies were performed in five dogs with a duodenal fistula; motility was recorded by means of six infused catheters and external transducers. Three test solutions with the same osmolality, lactulose, casein and casein hydrolysate, were continuously infused through the duodenal cannula. D‐Xylose was injected in the duodenum and plasma levels determined at regular intervals. Absorption of D‐Xylose was greatest during the administration of casein hydrolysate, the lowest levels were seen with lactulose and intermediate levels were obtained with casein. The effect of casein hydrolysate on small intestinal motility was characterized by a decrease in the frequency of contractions. Propulsive contractions were decreased after the infusion of both casein and casein hydrolysate. Lactulose infusion was followed by the greatest motor activity of both frequency and propulsive contractions. These results suggest that the motor patterns observed with casein and casein hydrolysate lead to increased intestinal absorption of D‐Xylose.
Intraluminal micromanometry: an evaluation of the dynamic performance of micro‐extrusions and sleeve sensors
Authors: OMARI T. , BAKEWELL M. , FRASER R. , MALBERT C. , DAVIDSON G. , DENT J.
Published: November 2010

Conventional manometric techniques are unsuitable for studies in premature infants and small laboratory animals. We have therefore developed silicone rubber 5‐lumen and 10‐lumen micromanometric extrusions with an o.d. 2.0 mm and lumina of 0.35 mm i.d. This study evaluates the suitability of micro‐extrusions for intraluminal perfusion manometry.

Pressure offset, post‐occlusion pressure rise rate and sphincter model studies were used to assess the monometric performance of the extrusions and a miniature sleeve sensor (25 mm long) at infusion rates of 0.01‐0.1 mL min−1.

Micro‐extrusions (5‐lumen/10‐lumen, respectively) had offsets (per 100 cm of length) of 3.8/5.0 mmHg at 0.01 mL min−1 and 25.6/26.2 mmHg at 0.1 mL min−1 and rise rates (in 160 cm lengths) of 64/43 mmHg sec−1 at 0.01 mL min−1 and 330/224 mmHg sec−1 at 0.1 mL min−1. Infusion rates 0.025 mL min−1 produced rise rates 100 mmHg sec−1. The miniature sleeve sensor had minimal resistance to perfusion, rise rates of 3 mmHg sec−1 at 0.01 mL min−1 and 23 mmHg sec−1 at 0.1 mL min−1 and recorded pressure as accurately as a side hole.

We conclude that the performance of micromanometric extrusions and sleeves is sufficient for intraluminal perfusion manometry.
Polar Movement of Ions in Barley Roots
Authors: SINGH CHANCHAL , JACOBSON LOUIS
Published: November 2010

The movement of Na+, Rb+, Ca2+, Cl−, and THO was investigated in excised roots of six‐day‐old barley plants containing different initial salt contents. Ions applied at any point of a root segment, 12 cm long, moved strictly towards the base of the root. The polar movement was maintained even after removing different lengths of the apex and applying ions to the central zone of the remaining segment. Ions applied to either cut end also showed the same polar movement. The polar movement of ions was unaffected by the initial salt status. Tritiated water applied to the central zone of the segment moved in both the apical and basal direction. The ion movement was not correlated with the water movement. No current hypothesis of ion transport satisfactorily explains the observed polar movement.
Influence of the Semen Deposition Site on the Calves’ Sex Ratio in Simmental Dairy Cattle
Authors: Zobel R , Gereš D , Pipal I , Buić V , Gračner D , Tkalcic S
Published: November 2010

Contents

It has been suggested that the time of insemination has effect on the calves’ sex ratio because of the differences in timing of capacitation, motility and survival time of the X and Y spermatozoa in the female reproductive tract. We have conducted a field trial to study the effects of different semen deposition sites on the sex ratio and fertility in cattle. Two groups of 450 cows were inseminated via artificial insemination: group A was inseminated into the uterine body and group B was inseminated deep into the uterine horn ipsilateral to the ovary with dominant follicle. After applying several exclusion criteria, a total of 607 pregnant cows were considered for data analysis (group A = 318 and group B = 289 cows). The conception rate was 7% higher (p < 0.05) in the group A, with 23% more of the male calf pregnancies (p < 0.001). At the same time, 18% more of the female calves were calved in the group B (p < 0.005). The difference in male calves between the two groups was 21% and in female calves was 20% (p < 0.001). We conclude that semen deposition site plays a significant role in differences in gender ratio observed after calving. Intracornual semen deposition resulted in a higher ratio of female calves, whereas uterine body deposition site resulted in higher male calves ratio, probably contributing physiologically to the differences in motility, capacitation time, the lifespan of X vs Y spermatozoa and to the pronounced shift of X spermatozoa in the female genital tract.
‘Now we call it research’: participatory health research involving marginalized women who use drugs
Authors: Salmon Amy , Browne Annette J , Pederson Ann
Published: November 2010

SALMON A, BROWNE AJ, and PEDERSON A. Nursing Inquiry 2010; 17: 336–345 ‘Now we call it research’: participatory health research involving marginalized women who use drugs

In this paper, we discuss and analyse the strategies employed and challenges encountered when conducting a recent feminist participatory action research study with highly marginalized women who were illicit drug users in an inner city area of Vancouver, Canada. Through an analysis of the political economy of participatory praxis within current neoliberal contexts, we focus on three main areas: (i) reconceptualizing the pragmatics of participation; (ii) the microeconomic implications of participatory research, including ethical issues in payment for research participation; and (iii) the value and limits of using research as a tool for activism and empowerment. We conclude with a brief discussion of what we see to be some of the most salient social justice implications arising from feminist and participatory approaches to health research within neoliberal political spaces.
Charting the excitability of premotor to motor connections while withholding or initiating a selected movement
Authors: Kroeger Johan , Bäumer Tobias , Jonas Melanie , Rothwell John C. , Siebner Hartwig R. , Münchau Alexander
Published: November 2010

In 19 healthy volunteers, we used transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to probe the excitability in pathways linking the left dorsal premotor cortex and right primary motor cortex and those linking the left and right motor cortex during the response delay and the reaction time period while subjects performed a delayed response [symbol 1 (S1) ‐ symbol 2 (S2)] Go–NoGo reaction time task with visual cues. Conditioning TMS pulses were applied to the left premotor or left motor cortex 8 ms before a test pulse was given to the right motor cortex at 300 or 1800 ms after S1 or 150 ms after S2. S1 coded for right‐hand or left‐hand movement, and S2 for release or stopping the prepared movement. Conditioning of the left premotor cortex led to interhemispheric inhibition at 300 ms post‐S1, interhemispheric facilitation at 150 ms post‐S2, and shorter reaction times in the move‐left condition. Conditioning of the left motor cortex led to inhibition at 1800 ms post‐S1 and 150 ms post‐S2, and slower reaction times for move‐right conditions, and inhibition at 300 and 1800 ms post‐S1 for move‐left conditions. Relative motor evoked potential amplitudes following premotor conditioning at 150 ms post‐S2 were significantly smaller in ‘NoGo’ than in ‘Go’ trials for move‐left instructions. We conclude that the excitability in left premotor/motor right motor pathways is context‐dependent and affects motor behaviour. Thus, the left premotor cortex is engaged not only in action selection but also in withholding and releasing a preselected movement generated by the right motor cortex.
Detrended fluctuation analysis of daily atmospheric surface temperature records in Atlantic Canada
Authors: SUTEANU CRISTIAN
Published: November 2010

The presence and properties of long‐range correlations in temperature data reflect interactions among climate components; therefore, the quantitative characterization of scaling aspects of temperature patterns is important to climate research and can serve as an effective constituent of tests for climate models. The article presents the results of a study using multiscale characterization of daily atmospheric surface temperature patterns in Atlantic Canada. Important influences in this region are exerted from the west (the Pacific Ocean), the south (the Gulf of Mexico) and the north (the Arctic), while a significant easterly impact is due to the Atlantic Ocean; the corresponding processes involve a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. The objective of the present study of long‐term temperature recordings was to evaluate the scaling properties produced in this geographical context. The data consist of homogenized daily atmospheric temperature time series recorded in stations from Atlantic Canada over a time interval of more than 100 years. Detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) was applied both to maximum and minimum temperature records. The atmospheric temperature pattern produced by the interplay of factors of different strengths and dominating various time‐space scales was found to be characterized by consistent scaling properties, expressed over time intervals ranging from months to decades. Higher values of DFA scaling exponents were obtained for minimum temperature compared to maximum temperature records. Site‐specific properties include stronger pattern persistence—higher DFA exponents—for oceanic than for coastal locations; persistence tends to decrease with increasing distance from the coast for distances up to 10 kilometres. Scaling exponents tend to increase with decreasing difference between average minimum and maximum temperature, which may be relevant for the assessment of future changes in pattern variability if climate change involves modified contrasts between minimum and maximum temperature values.
Polymorphisms of adrenergic cardiovascular control genes are associated with adolescent chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Sommerfeldt Line , Portilla Helene , Jacobsen Line , Gjerstad Johannes , Wyller Vegard Bruun
Published: November 2010

Aim:  To explore the frequency of polymorphisms in adrenergic cardiovascular control genes in adolescent with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and the relation of such polymorphisms to cardiovascular variables.

Methods:  DNA from 53 patients with CFS, 12–18 years old, was analysed for five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT), the β2‐adrenergic receptor (two SNPs), the β1‐adrenergic receptor and the α2a‐adrenergic receptor. Frequencies were compared to a reference population constructed from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database, and associations between frequencies and autonomic cardiovascular responses during a 20° head‐uptilt‐test were explored.

Results:  For the COMT SNP Rs4680, patients with CFS had a higher frequency of the AA genotype and a lower frequency of the G containing genotypes (AG and GG), when compared to the reference sample (p = 0.046). Also, the AA genotype was associated with a smaller increase in LF/HF ratio (low‐frequency:high‐frequency heart rate variability ratio, an index of cardiac sympathovagal balance) during head‐up tilt when compared to the AG/GG genotypes. For the β2‐adrenergic receptor SNP Rs1042714, patients with CFS had a lower frequency of the GG genotype and a higher frequency of the genotypes containing C (CG and CC) (p = 0.044).

Conclusions:  CFS might be related to polymorphisms of COMT and the β2‐adrenergic receptor. More details of the molecular mechanisms remain to be investigated.
Influence of extended light exposure time on the degree of conversion and plasticization of materials used as pit and fissure sealants
Authors: Borges Boniek Castillo Dutra , Souza‐Júnior Eduardo José , Catelan Anderson , Lovadino José Roberto , Dos Santos Paulo Henrique , Paulillo Luís Alexandre Maffei Sartini , Aguiar Flávio Henrique Baggio
Published: November 2010

Aim:  To evaluate the conversion and plasticization of fissure sealer materials, as influenced by extended curing time.

Methods:  Twenty specimens (n = 5) of a pit and fissure sealant and a flowable composite at two curing times (20 and 60 sec) were photocured with the Bluephase 16i light‐emitting diode. The conversion was determined by Fourier transform infrared/attenuated total reflection spectroscopy 24 h after polymerization. Hardness was measured, and samples were stored in absolute ethanol for 24 h. A second hardness measurement was executed after storage to assess plasticization by the percentage of hardness decrease. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance and Pearson’s correlation (α = 0.05).

Results:  The pit and fissure sealant showed lower degree of conversion than the flowable composite. The 60‐sec curing time increased the conversion only for the flowable composite. Plasticization was lower for the flowable composite than for the pit and fissure sealant. The 60‐sec light exposure time showed a similar percentage of hardness decrease of 20 sec. A low correlation between the conversion and plasticization was found.

Conclusion:  Extended curing time improved the conversion only for the flowable composite. The pit and fissure sealant presented lower conversion and higher plasticization than the flowable composite.
Theoretical and experimental studies of IR and NMR spectra of gem-2,2-diamino-4,4,6,6-tetraphenoxy-1,3,5-cyclo-triaza-λ5-phosphorine
Authors: Dastychová Lenka , Dastych Dalibor , Kubáček Pavel , Alberti Milan
Published: November 2010

The vibrational spectra of gem-2,2-diamino-4,4,6,6-tetraphenoxy-1,3,5-cyclo-triaza-λ5-phosphorine were studied using density functional theory. Selected vibrational bands were assigned to normal modes on the basis of DFT calculation with the ADF program package. The 1H and 13C NMR spectra, the higher order 31P, 31P{1Ham.(sel.)} and 31P{1Harom.(sel.)} NMR spectra were measured and the values of 1J(C,H), 2J(C,H) and 2J(PI,PII) were found. Nearly the complete spin system (ABB′M4X4X4′) for the symmetry C2 was simulated with the gNMR simulation program and the values of 2J(PI,Ham.), 4J(PII,Ham.), 4J(PII,Harom.), 6J(PI,Harom.) and 6J(PII,H′arom.) were determined for the first time. The experimental NMR data were also compared with quantum chemical calculation results.
HOLOGRAPHIC DARK ENERGY AND VALIDITY OF THE GENERALIZED SECOND LAW OF THERMODYNAMICS IN THE DGP BRANEWORLD
Authors: DUTTA JIBITESH , CHAKRABORTY SUBENOY , ANSARI M.
Published: November 2010

In this paper, we investigate the validity of the generalized second law of thermodynamics (GSLT) in the DGP braneworld. The boundary of the universe is assumed to be enclosed by the dynamical apparent horizon or the event horizon. The universe is chosen to be homogeneous and isotropic and the validity of the first law has been assumed here. The matter in the universe is taken in the form of non-interacting two-fluid system: one component is the holographic dark energy and the other component is in the form of dust.
PLANE SYMMETRIC SOLUTIONS IN HOŘAVA–LIFSHITZ THEORY
Authors: SETARE M. R. , MOMENI D.
Published: November 2010

The purpose of this paper is to find and analyze plane symmetric, static (non-static) solutions in Hořava–Lifshitz gravity. We discussed two versions of Horava gravity. First we show that if the detailed balance principle is considered, there are both static and non-static solutions. We show that in the static case there are two families of solvable models, either one of them having a well-defined EoS, analogous to the perfect fluid solutions in GR. In the non-static case we find a family of solutions. Some physical properties of these solutions are discussed. Secondly we investigated the plane symmetric solutions for a new modified version of Hořava gravity, which has the new terms of action inserted into it.
The rise, fall and persistence of Ada
Authors: Sward Ricky E.
Published: November 2010

This paper begins with a brief history of the Ada programming language including the rise of Ada, the Ada Mandate and the fall from grace as a DoD programming language. The paper examines the reasons why the Ada is not widely accepted in certain areas and provides reasons why it should be used in particular areas. The paper then gives examples of where Ada has persisted and found a niche in safety critical, high integrity. The paper also discusses Ada-related organizations and gives examples of projects currently underway in the US and in Europe providing a compelling reason for using Ada in appropriate and critical domain areas.
YAMR
Authors: Ganichev Igor , Dai Bin , Godfrey P. Brighten , Shenker Scott
Published: November 2010

Multipath routing is a promising technique to increase the Internet's reliability and to give users greater control over the service they receive. However, past proposals choose paths which are not guaranteed to have high diversity. In this paper, we propose yet another multipath routing scheme (YAMR) for the interdomain case. YAMR provably constructs a set of paths that is resilient to any one inter-domain link failure, thus achieving high reliability in a systematic way. Further, even though YAMR maintains more paths than BGP, it actually requires significantly less control traffic, thus alleviating instead of worsening one of the Internet's scalability problems. This reduction in churn is achieved by a novel hiding technique that automatically localizes failures leaving the greater part of the Internet completely oblivious.
Organ-Specific Innate Immune Responses in a Mouse Model of Invasive Candidiasis
Authors: Lionakis Michail S. , Lim Jean K. , Lee Chyi-Chia Richard , Murphy Philip M.
Published: November 2010

In a fatal mouse model of invasive candidiasis (IC), fungal burden changes with variable dynamics in the kidney, brain, spleen, and liver and declines in all organs except for the kidney, which inexorably loses function. Since leukocytes are required to control Candida, we hypothesized that differential leukocyte infiltration determines organ-specific outcome of the infection. We defined leukocyte accumulation in the blood, kidney, brain, spleen, and liver after infection using fluorescent-activated cell sorting (FACS) and immunohistochemistry. Accumulation of Ly6cintCD11b+ neutrophils predominated in all organs except the brain, where CD45intCD11b+CD11c– microglia were the major leukocytes detected, surrounding foci of invading Candida. Significantly more neutrophils accumulated in the spleen and liver than in the kidney during the first 24 h after infection, when neutrophil presence is critical for Candida control. Conversely, at later time points only the kidney continued to accumulate neutrophils, associated with immunopathology and organ failure. The distribution of neutrophils was completely different in each organ, with large abscesses exclusively forming in the kidney. Candida filamentation, an essential virulence factor, was seen in the kidney but not in the spleen or liver. IC induced Ly6chiCD11b+ inflammatory monocyte and NK1.1+ cell expansion in the blood and all organs tested, and MHCII+F4/80+CD11c– macrophage accumulation, mainly in the spleen and liver. This study is the first detailed analysis of leukocyte subsets accumulating in different target organs during IC. The results delineate immune responses to the same pathogen that are highly idiosyncratic for each organ tested. The work provides novel insights into the balance between effective host defense and immunopathology in IC.
The Primary Role of Fibrinogen-Related Proteins in Invertebrates Is Defense, Not Coagulation
Authors: Hanington Patrick C. , Zhang Si-Ming
Published: November 2010

In vertebrates, the conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin is an essential process that underlies the establishment of the supporting protein framework required for coagulation. In invertebrates, fibrinogen-domain-containing proteins play a role in the defense response generated against pathogens; however, they do not function in coagulation, suggesting that this role has been recently acquired. Molecules containing fibrinogen motifs have been identified in numerous invertebrate organisms, and most of these molecules known to date have been linked to defense. Moreover, recent genome projects of invertebrate animals have revealed surprisingly high numbers of fibrinogen-like loci in their genomes, suggesting important and perhaps diverse functions of fibrinogen-like proteins in invertebrates. The ancestral role of molecules containing fibrinogen-related domains (FReDs) with immunity is the focus of this review, with emphasis on specific FReDs called fibrinogen-related proteins (FREPs) identified from the schistosome-transmitting mollusc Biomphalaria glabrata. Herein, we outline the range of invertebrate organisms FREPs can be found in, and detail the roles these molecules play in defense and protection against infection.
Dopamine D4 Receptor Exon III Polymorphism, Adverse Life Events and Personality Traits in a Nonclinical German Adult Sample
Authors: Reiner Iris , Spangler Gottfried
Published: November 2010

Personality and temperament embrace a wide area of both psychological and behavioral processes which are also based on disposition. A functional polymorphism in exon III of the dopamine D4 receptor gene (DRD4) has been a highly suspect genetic marker for personality in spite of ambiguous results. The present study aimed to further elucidate the relationship between DRD4, negative life events and personality in a representative nonclinical sample. Hundred sixty-seven Germans completed the NEO Five-Factor Inventory, the Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire and the California Adult Q-Sort. A factor analysis revealed 3 factors: emotional stability, social orientation and impulsivity. DNA from buccal cells was genotyped for the DRD4 variable-number tandem-repeat exon III polymorphism with respect to presence versus absence of the DRD4 7-repeat allele. Adverse life events were assessed by means of the Adverse Life Events Scale. Men carrying the DRD4 7-repeat allele were more impulsive than those without. Male 7-repeat carriers were more emotionally instable than others, but only when they experienced a large amount of negative life events. No genotype-personality relationships were found for women. The results indicate gender-specific influences of the DRD4 gene on human behavior and invite researchers to further investigate gene-environment correlations on personality traits.
The Impact of Exercise Training on Conduit Artery Wall Thickness and Remodeling in Chronic Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Maiorana Andrew J. , Naylor Louise H. , Exterkate Anne , Swart Anne , Thijssen Dick H.J. , Lam Kaitlyn , O'Driscoll Gerry , Green Daniel J.
Published: November 2010

Exercise training is an important adjunct to medical therapy in chronic heart failure, but the extent to which exercise impacts on conduit artery remodeling is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of aerobic and resistance exercise training modalities on arterial remodeling in patients with chronic heart failure. We randomized 36 untrained subjects with chronic heart failure to resistance training (58.8±3.5 years), aerobic training (61.3±2.8 years), or an untrained control group (64.4±2.4 years). Peak oxygen consumption during cycle ergometry increased after 12 weeks in both the resistance and aerobic training (
P
<0.001) groups, but not in controls, whereas leg strength only increased after resistance training (
P
<0.05). Brachial artery wall thickness decreased in the resistance training group (475±10 versus 443±13 μm;
P
<0.01), whereas no changes were apparent in the aerobic or control groups. Brachial diameter increased by ≈6% and ≈5% in the aerobic training and resistance training groups (
P
<0.01), with no change evident in the control group. The wall:lumen ratio consequently declined in the resistance training group at 12 weeks (0.121±0.004 versus 0.107±0.004;
P
<0.01) and increased in the control group (0.111±0.006 versus 0.121±0.009;
P
<0.05). No wall:lumen change was evident in the aerobic training group. Our findings suggest that exercise has a systemic impact on remodeling of conduit arteries in humans and that resistance exercise training may be advantageous in subjects with chronic heart failure in this regard.
Oil palm bio-fiber-reinforced polypropylene composites: effects of alkali fiber treatment and coupling agents
Authors: Suradi S.S. , Yunus R.M. , Beg M.D.H.
Published: November 2010

The major challenge for natural fiber composites is their inherent poor adhesion between fiber and the matrix, high moisture absorption, and UV degradation. Lignin and hemicelluloses are the major composites of natural fiber which are responsible for UV degradation and moisture absorption, respectively. In this study, the lignocelluloses (oil palm empty fruit bunch) were treated with alkaline peroxide to separate lignin and hemicelluloses. Composites were produced with treated and untreated fibers using up to 45% fiber with polypropylene matrix using twin-screw extruder followed by injection molding. To improve the interfacial bonding, maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) was used as a coupling agent in the formulation. Properties of composites were evaluated using tensile testing, flexural testing, impact testing, SEM, and FTIR. The tensile, flexural, and impact properties were found to be improved with alkaline peroxide-treated fiber composites compared to untreated fiber composites. Addition of coupling agent (MAPP) also found to provide improved properties of composites.
Robust H ∞ vibration control for smart solar array structure
Authors: Jiang Jian-Ping , Li Dong-Xu
Published: November 2010

The multi-panel deployable solar array structure is the most common system utilized for spacecraft power system. To effectively suppress vibration of the solar array structure is still a challenging task. The present works focus on dynamic modeling and robust H∞ vibration control for a large flexible spacecraft solar array structure using piezoelectric actuators and velocity sensors. The structural dynamic model of the solar array structure with piezoelectric actuators is generated by using finite element techniques. The order of the system is reduced by employing Modal Hankel Singular Value method. Based on Linear Matrix Inequality technique, a robust H∞ dynamic output feedback controller is designed to suppress the vibrations caused by external disturbances. The simulation results show that the vibration can be significantly suppressed with permitted actuator voltages by the controller. The robust H∞ controller can avoid the spillover due to mode truncation.
Use of inverse dynamics for trajectory tracking of flexible-link manipulator with account of link shortening effect
Authors: El-Badawy Ayman A.
Published: November 2010

In this paper, the deflection of a two-link flexible manipulator has been modeled with each point on the flexible link being described by both axial and lateral displacement variables instead of lateral displacement variable only. This has been possible by including the shortening of the projection effect on the deformed link. A control law based on computed-torque formulation has been utilized to expose the difference between the responses of the two models, and thus the impact of the shortening of projection effect due to the flexible link deformation on following the desired trajectory is presented.
A study of free vibration of a circumferentially non-uniform cylindrical shell with a four-lobed cross-section
Authors: Mousa Khalifa Ahmed
Published: November 2010

The transfer matrix approach is used and the Flügge’s shell theory is modeled to investigate the free vibration behaviour of a cylindrical shell with a four-lobed cross-section with reduced thickness over part of its circumference. Modal displacements of the shell can be described by trigonometric functions and Fourier’s approach is used to separate the variables. The vibration equations of the shell are reduced to eight first-order differential equations in the circumferential coordinate, and by using the transfer matrix of the shell, these equations can be written in a matrix differential equation. The transfer matrix is derived from the nonlinear differential equations of the cylindrical shells by introducing the trigonometric functions in the longitudinal direction and applying a numerical integration in the circumferential direction. The proposed method is used to get the vibration frequencies and the corresponding mode shapes of symmetrical and antisymmetrical type-modes. Computed results indicate the sensitivity of the frequency parameters and the bending deformations to the geometry of the non-uniformity of the shell, and also to the radius of curvature at the lobed corners.
Communicating During a Pandemic
Authors: Henrich Natalie , Holmes Bev
Published: November 2010

To prepare for pandemics, countries are creating pandemic preparedness plans. These plans frequently include crisis communication strategies that recommend conducting pre-crisis audience research to increase the effectiveness and relevance of communication with the public. To begin understanding the communication needs of the public and health care workers, 11 focus groups were conducted in Vancouver, Canada, in 2006 and 2007 to identify what information people want to receive and how they want to receive it. In the event of a pandemic, participants want to know their risk of infection and how sick they could become if infected. To make decisions about using vaccines and drugs, they want information that enables them to assess the risks of using the products. The public prefers to receive this information from family doctors, the Internet, and schools. Health care workers prefer to receive information in e-mails and in-services.
The Effect of Incarceration on Urban Fathers’ Health
Authors: Curtis Marah A.
Published: November 2010

This study examines the effects of incarceration on the health of urban fathers. Using the Fragile Families and Child Well-Being Study, which surveys parents in 20 large U.S. cities across the country, the relationship between fathers’ incarceration patterns and health status was examined while controlling for poor preexisting health and individual impulsivity. Findings indicate that fathers who have previously been incarcerated at some time are markedly more likely to rely on medications for physical or mental health problems, whereas recently incarcerated repeat offenders have reduced odds of being in poor health relative to those who have never been to prison. Improvements in health among recently incarcerated repeat offenders relative to those who have not been incarcerated may be related to prison health care and the overall disadvantaged circumstances of these fathers.
The Text-mining based PubChem Bioassay neighboring analysis
Authors: Han Lianyi , Suzek Tugba O , Wang Yanli , Bryant Steve H
Published: November 2010

Background

In recent years, the number of High Throughput Screening (HTS) assays deposited in PubChem has grown quickly. As a result, the volume of both the structured information (i.e. molecular structure, bioactivities) and the unstructured information (such as descriptions of bioassay experiments), has been increasing exponentially. As a result, it has become even more demanding and challenging to efficiently assemble the bioactivity data by mining the huge amount of information to identify and interpret the relationships among the diversified bioassay experiments. In this work, we propose a text-mining based approach for bioassay neighboring analysis from the unstructured text descriptions contained in the PubChem BioAssay database.

Results

The neighboring analysis is achieved by evaluating the cosine scores of each bioassay pair and fraction of overlaps among the human-curated neighbors. Our results from the cosine score distribution analysis and assay neighbor clustering analysis on all PubChem bioassays suggest that strong correlations among the bioassays can be identified from their conceptual relevance. A comparison with other existing assay neighboring methods suggests that the text-mining based bioassay neighboring approach provides meaningful linkages among the PubChem bioassays, and complements the existing methods by identifying additional relationships among the bioassay entries.

Conclusions

The text-mining based bioassay neighboring analysis is efficient for correlating bioassays and studying different aspects of a biological process, which are otherwise difficult to achieve by existing neighboring procedures due to the lack of specific annotations and structured information. It is suggested that the text-mining based bioassay neighboring analysis can be used as a standalone or as a complementary tool for the PubChem bioassay neighboring process to enable efficient integration of assay results and generate hypotheses for the discovery of bioactivities of the tested reagents.
Mechanisms of leukocyte distribution during sepsis: an experimental study on the interdependence of cell activation, shear stress and endothelial injury
Authors: Ploppa Annette , Schmidt Volker , Hientz Andreas , Reutershan Joerg , Haeberle Helene A , Nohé Boris
Published: November 2010

Introduction

This study was carried out to determine whether interactions of cell activation, shear stress and platelets at sites of endothelial injury explain the paradoxical maldistribution of activated leukocytes during sepsis away from local sites of infection towards disseminated leukocyte accumulation at remote sites.

Methods

Human umbilical venous endothelial cells (HUVEC) and polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) were activated with lipopolysaccharide at 100 and 10 ng/ml to achieve adhesion molecule patterns as have been reported from the hyper- and hypo-inflammatory stage of sepsis. To examine effects of leukocyte activation on leukocyte-endothelial interactions, activated HUVEC were perfused with activated and non-activated neutrophils in a parallel plate flow chamber. Adhesion molecule expression and function were assessed by flow cytometry and blocking antibodies. In a subset of experiments the sub-endothelial matrix was exposed and covered with platelets to account for the effects of endothelial injury. To investigate interactions of these effects with flow, all experiments were done at various shear stress levels (3 to 0.25 dyne/cm2). Leukocyte-endothelial interactions were analyzed by videomicroscopy and analysis of covariance.

Results

Activation of neutrophils rendered adhesion increasingly dependent on shear stress reduction. At normal shear stress, shedding of L-selectin decreased adhesion by 56%. Increased rolling fractions of activated PMN at low shear stress revealed impaired integrin affinity despite numerical up-regulation of CD11b. On sub-maximally activated, intact HUVEC shear stress became the prevailing determinant of adhesion. Presence of a platelet-covered injury with high surface density of P-selectin was the strongest variable for adhesion. When compared to maximally activated HUVEC, platelets increased neutrophil adhesion by 2.7-fold. At sub-maximal activation a 10-fold increase was observed (P < 0.05 for all).

Conclusions

L-selectin shedding and integrin dysfunction render leukocyte adhesion increasingly susceptible to shear stress and alternative adhesion receptors. In combination, these effects inhibit recruitment to normally perfused sites with intact endothelium and favor maldistribution towards sites with compromised perfusion or endothelial injury.
Changes in Invasive Breast Cancer and Ductal Carcinoma In Situ Rates in Relation to the Decline in Hormone Therapy Use
Authors: Farhat Ghada N. , Walker Rod , Buist Diana S.M. , Onega Tracy , Kerlikowske Karla
Published: November 2010

Purpose

To assess trends in invasive breast cancer and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) incidence in association with changes in hormone therapy (HT) use in regular mammography screeners.

Methods

We included 2,071,814 screening mammography examinations performed between January 1997 and December 2006 on 696,385 women age 40 to 79 years; 9,586 breast cancers were diagnosed within 12 months of a screening examination. We calculated adjusted annual rates (mammogram level) for prevalent HT use, incident invasive breast cancer (overall and by tumor histology and estrogen receptor [ER] status), and incident DCIS.

Results

After a precipitous decrease in HT use in 2002, the incidence of invasive breast cancer decreased significantly in 2002 to 2006 among women age 50 to 69 years (Ptrend(2002–2006) = .005) and 70 to 79 years (Ptrend(2002–2006) = .003) but not in women age 40 to 49 years (Ptrend(2002–2006) = .45). DCIS rates significantly decreased in women age 50 to 69 years after 2002 (Ptrend(2002–2006) = .02). Invasive ductal tumors significantly declined in women age 50 to 69 years and 70 to 79 years in 2002 to 2006. In women age 50 to 69 years, invasive lobular and ER-positive cancer rates declined steadily in 2002 to 2005 (Ptrend(2002–2005) = .02 and .03, respectively), but an elevated rate in 2006 rendered the overall trend nonsignificant (Ptrend(2002–2006) = .89 and .91, respectively).

Conclusion

In parallel to the sharp decline in HT use in women undergoing regular mammography screening, invasive breast cancer rates decreased in women age 50 to 69 and 70 to 79 years after 2002, and DCIS rates decreased in women age 50 to 69 years, consistent with evidence that HT cessation reduces breast cancer risk. However, the decrease in incidence may have started to level off in 2006; this finding has not been uniformly reported in other populations, warranting further investigation.