bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multilocus analysis of the evolutionary dynamics of rainforest bird populations in Southeast Asia
Authors: LIM HAW CHUAN , SHELDON FREDERICK H.
Published: July 2011

Sundaland has a dynamic geographic history because its landmasses were periodically interconnected when sea levels fell during glacial periods. Superimposed on this geographic dynamism were environmental changes related to climatic oscillations. To investigate how tropical taxa responded to such changes, we studied the divergence and demographic history of two co‐distributed rainforest passerine species, Arachnothera longirostra and Malacocincla malaccensis. We sampled birds primarily from Borneo and the Malay Peninsula, which straddle the now‐submerged Sunda shelf, and analysed multilocus DNA data with a variety of coalescent and gene genealogy methods. Cross‐shelf divergence in both species occurred well before the last glacial maximum, i.e., before the most recent land connection. However, post‐divergence gene flow occurred, and it was more pronounced in A. longirostra (a highly vagile nectarivore/insectivore) than in M. malaccensis (an understory insectivore). Despite current habitat continuity on Borneo, the population of M. malaccensis in northeastern Borneo is substantially divergent from that on the rest of the island. The NE population experienced dramatic demographic fluctuations, probably because of competition with the other population, which expanded from western Borneo after the mid‐Pleistocene. In contrast, the Borneo population of A. longirostra has little structure and appears to have experienced demographic expansion 16 kya, long after it had diverged from the Malay Peninsula population (630–690 kya). Malay Peninsula populations of both species have remained relatively stable. Overall, the most recent glacial period was not the chief determinant of the evolutionary dynamics of our study species, and in this respect, they are different from temperate species.
Enhanced zinc uptake by rice through phytosiderophore secretion: a modelling study
Authors: PTASHNYK MARIYA , ROOSE TIINA , JONES DAVEY L. , KIRK GUY J. D.
Published: July 2011

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) secretes far smaller amounts of metal‐complexing phytosiderophores (PS) than other grasses. But there is increasing evidence that it relies on PS secretion for its zinc (Zn) uptake. After nitrogen, Zn deficiency is the most common nutrient disorder in rice, affecting up to 50% of lowland rice soils globally. We developed a mathematical model of PS secretion from roots and resulting solubilization and uptake of Zn, allowing for root growth, diurnal variation in secretion, decomposition of the PS in the soil, and the transport and interaction of the PS and Zn in the soil. A sensitivity analysis showed that with realistic parameter values for rice in submerged soil, the typically observed rates of PS secretion from rice are sufficient and necessary to explain observed rates of Zn uptake. There is little effect of diurnal variation in secretion on cumulative Zn uptake, irrespective of other model parameter values, indicating that the observed diurnal variation is not causally related to Zn uptake efficiency. Rooting density has a large effect on uptake per unit PS secretion as a result of overlap of the zones of influence of neighbouring roots. The effects of other complications in the rice rhizosphere are discussed.
Determination of enrofloxacin stability and in vitro efficacy against Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in four ear cleaner solutions over a 28 day period
Authors: Metry Catherine A. , Maddox Carol W. , Dirikolu Levent , Johnson Yvette J. , Campbell Karen L.
Published: July 2011

Chemical stability and in vitro bactericidal efficacy of 0.9% enrofloxacin‐compounded solutions were evaluated following storage at room temperature for 28 days. Chemical stability of enrofloxacin was determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in five compounded solutions, including sterile water. Bactericidal efficacy was determined by spiral plating serial 10‐fold dilutions of bacteria and solutions followed by colony counts. Tris–EDTA [TrizEDTA® (TE)], Tris–EDTA and 0.15% chlorhexidine [TrizChlor® (TC)], 2.5% lactic acid, 0.1% salicylic acid and 0.1% parachlorometaxylenol [Epi‐Otic (EO)], and 0.1% free salicylic acid, 0.1% parachlorometaxylenol and 0.5% EDTA [Epi‐Otic Advanced (EA)] were used. High‐performance liquid chromatography was carried out with one‐step liquid/liquid extraction to detect and quantify enrofloxacin stability. Mean recoveries for compounded samples run in triplicate at 28 days were 97.7% (TE), 99.9% (TC), 98.1% (EO) and 97.8% (EA). Kruskal–Wallis analysis showed no significant difference in the percentage recovery (H = 0.0539, df = 3, P = 0.9967). American Type Culture Collection strains of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were used to evaluate in vitro efficacy following 30 min incubation on days 0, 14 and 28. Consistent in vitro bactericidal efficacy of all compounded solutions, indicated by killing >2.3 × 107 colony‐forming units/mL, was seen; however, bactericidal efficacy decreased for compounded TC on day 14. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was more sensitive to the ear cleaners and enrofloxacin than S. pseudintermedius. The HPLC and in vitro data suggest that 0.9% enrofloxacin compounded with sterile water, TE, EO and EA maintains chemical stability and bactericidal efficacy for 28 days.
Equine atopic skin disease and response to allergen‐specific immunotherapy: a retrospective study at the University of California‐Davis (1991–2008)
Authors: Stepnik Casey T. , Outerbridge Catherine A. , White Stephen D. , Kass Philip H.
Published: July 2011

This retrospective study reports on the clinical presentation of equine atopic skin disease and evaluates response to treatment with allergen‐specific immunotherapy (ASIT) based on intradermal testing and/or serum testing. Computerized medical records from January 1991 to December 2008 yielded 54 horses included in the study. Presenting clinical signs (CS) included urticaria (n = 28), pruritus (n = 8) or both (n = 18). Forty‐one of 54 horses received ASIT, and response to ASIT (n = 32) was evaluated via telephone survey. Eighty‐four per cent (n = 27) of owners reported that ASIT reduced their horse’s CS; 59% (n = 19) were able to manage CS by ASIT alone. Three horses (9%) were managed with ASIT in combination with doxepin and discontinued use of corticosteroids. There was no statistical significance between type of test performed and reported success of ASIT (χ2 analysis, P = 0.53). Ninety‐three per cent (n = 30) of owners reported use of antipruritic medications prior to starting ASIT; 57% (n = 17) of these owners reported discontinuing those medications due to success of ASIT. Adverse effects were limited to swelling at the injection site, seen in 16% (n = 5). Seventy‐five per cent (n = 24) of owners elected to discontinue ASIT after 6 months to 8 years (mean 2.2 years): 15 due to resolution of CS, six due to persistent CS, two because the horse was sold, and one due to cost. Ten owners reported no recurrence of CS after discontinuing ASIT; five had recurrence within a median of 2 years of discontinuing ASIT (range 1–12 years). Allergen‐specific immunotherapy is a safe and effective way to manage equine atopic skin disease.
Comparative in vitro efficacy of antimicrobial shampoos: a pilot study
Authors: Young Rebecca , Buckley Laura , McEwan Neil , Nuttall Tim
Published: July 2011

This study compared the antimicrobial efficacy of shampoos against meticillin‐sensitive Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MSSP), meticillin‐resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP), antibiotic‐sensitive Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), multidrug‐resistant P. aeruginosa (MDR‐PA) and Malassezia pachydermatis. Three isolates were incubated for 10, 30 and 60 min with each shampoo diluted in phosphate‐buffered saline. Aliquots were then incubated for 16–18 h on sheep blood agar (bacteria) or for 3 days on Sabouraud’s dextrose agar (Malassezia). The minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) for chlorhexidine products (Malaseb®, Pyoderm®/Microbex® and Hibiscrub®) were 1:1,024–1:2,048 for MSSP and MRSP, 1:512–1:1,024 for PA and MDR‐PA, and 1:2,048–1:5,096 for Malassezia at all time points. The MBCs for benzoyl peroxide (Paxcutol®) for MSSP and MRSP were 1:2–1:8 at 10 min, and 1:256 after 30 and 60 min. A 1:2 dilution was effective against Pseudomonas, and 1:512–1:1,024 dilutions were effective against Malassezia at all time points. The MBCs for ethyl lactate (Etiderm®) for MSSP and MRSP were 1:2 at 10 min, and 1:2–1:16 after 30 and 60 min. A 1:2 dilution was effective against Pseudomonas, and a 1:512 dilution was effective against Malassezia at all time points. Chloroxylenol (Coatex®) and acetic acid–boric acid (Malacetic®) were not effective against MSSP, MRSP or Pseudomonas. Both were effective against Malassezia at 1:8–1:16 dilution at 10 min, and at 1:8–1:32 dilution after 30 and 60 min. In conclusion, chlorhexidine appeared to be the most effective topical biocide, and MRSP and MDR‐PA were no less susceptible than antibiotic‐sensitive organisms. These results should, however, be confirmed with larger numbers of isolates.
Ghrelin stimulates myogenic differentiation in a mouse muscle satellite cell line and in primary cultures of bovine myoblasts
Authors: Montoya‐Flores D. , Mora O. , Tamariz E. , González‐Dávalos L. , González‐Gallardo A. , Antaramian A. , Shimada A. , Varela‐Echavarría A. , Romano‐Muñoz J. L.
Published: July 2011

Ghrelin is an acylated hormone that influences food intake, energy metabolism and reproduction, among others. Ghrelin may also stimulate proliferating myoblast cell differentiation and multinucleated myotube fusion. The aim of this work was to assess the effect of human ghrelin (hGHRL) and human ghrelin fragment 1–18 (hGHRL1–18) on myoblast differentiation by means of mRNA expression and protein level. Two types of cells were tested, the cell line i28 obtained from mouse skeletal muscle and primary cultures of bovine myoblasts. Both ghrelin and its N‐terminal fragment hGHRL1–18 were used at concentrations of 0, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 nm. Treatments were applied to pre‐confluent cultures and were maintained for 4 days. We determined that between 0.1 and 100 nm, hGHRL and hGRHL1–18 had similar effects on myogenic differentiation of i28 cells (p < 0.01). On the other hand, only the higher concentrations (10 and 100 nm) of hGHRL stimulated bovine myoblast differentiation. These results could be attributed to the presence, in both i28 cells and in bovine myoblasts, of the mRNA for GHS‐R1a and CD36 receptors. The use of ghrelin in livestock production is still questionable because of the limited effects shown in this study, and additional research is needed in this field.
A scoring model of factors associated with Candida glabrata candidemia among critically ill patients
Authors: Tapia Gino G. , Razonable Raymund R. , Eckel‐Passow Jeanette E. , Lahr Brian D. , Afessa Bekele , Keegan Mark T. , Catania Jelena , Baddour Larry M.
Published: July 2011

Candida species, including Candida glabrata (CG), are common causes of bloodstream infections among intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Many CG isolates have decreased susceptibility to fluconazole. Constructing a scoring model of factors associated with CG candidemia in ICU patients that can be used if fluconazole susceptibility testing is not readily available. We identified patients with candidemia that were admitted to the ICU of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota from 1998 to 2006. Using patient demographical and clinical data abstracted via chart review, a multivariable logistic regression model was developed to distinguish those with CG candidemia. We identified 246 patients with candidemia including 68 CG cases. Multivariable analysis identified four independent factors associated with CG candidemia: absence of renal failure, less than 7 days in the hospital, abdominal surgery and fluconazole use. The predictive ability of the model, based on the c‐statistic, was 0.727. In a large ICU cohort, a scoring model that included four risk factors, which are readily ascertainable at the bedside, was created to distinguish candidemia due to CG from other causes of candidemia. The identification of risk factors associated with CG candidemia could aid physicians in the selection of the optimal initial antifungal therapy.
Transient hypoxia‐inducible factor activation in rat renal ablation and reduced fibrosis with L‐mimosine
Authors: YU XIAOFANG , FANG YI , DING XIAOQIANG , LIU HONG , ZHU JIAMING , ZOU JIANZHOU , XU XUNHUI , ZHONG YIHONG
Published: July 2011

Aim:  Hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF) activity during the course of chronic kidney disease (CKD) development is poorly defined, and the effect of HIF activation on CKD is still controversial. The purpose of the present study was to characterize HIF expression during the course of CKD development, and to investigate the effect of HIF activation on CKD by using prolyl hydroxylase (PHD) inhibitor L‐mimosine.

Methods:  Rats with remnant kidneys (RK) were killed at week 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 after subtotal nephrectomy. An additional group of RK rats was treated with L‐mimosine to study the effect of HIF‐α activation.

Results:  Tubulointerstitial hypoxia in the remnant kidney began at week 1 and continued, albeit attenuated, until week 12, the last time point examined. The nuclear expression of HIF‐1α and HIF‐2α, as well as typical HIF target genes VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), HO‐1 (heme oxygenase‐1), GLUT‐1 (glucose transporter‐1) and EPO (erythropoietin), were all upregulated in the early stage of RK when renal function was stable, and returned to the basal level later, accompanied by impaired renal function and interstitial fibrosis. L‐mimosine administered from week 5 to week 12 led to accumulation of HIF‐1α and HIF‐2α proteins, increased expression of VEGF, HO‐1 and GLUT‐1, and improved renal function. Furthermore, fibrosis markers α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and Collagen III, as well as peritubular capillary rarefaction index, were all significantly decreased after L‐mimosine treatment.

Conclusion:  There was a transient HIF‐α activation in the remnant kidney of rats at the early stage following subtotal nephrectomy. L‐mimosine administered in later stages re‐activated HIF‐α and reduced tubulointerstitial fibrosis.
Mesenchymal stem cells in kidney inflammation and repair
Authors: WISE ANDREA F. , RICARDO SHARON D.
Published: July 2011

Mesenchymal stem cells are a heterogeneous population of fibroblast‐like stromal cells that have been isolated from the bone marrow and a number of organs and tissues including the kidney. They have multipotent and self‐renewing properties and can differentiate into cells of the mesodermal lineage. Following their administration in vivo, mesenchymal stem cells migrate to damaged kidney tissue where they produce an array of anti‐inflammatory cytokines and chemokines that can alter the course of injury. Mesenchymal stem cells are thought to elicit repair through paracrine and/or endocrine mechanisms that modulate the immune response resulting in tissue repair and cellular replacement. This review will discuss the features of mesenchymal stem cells and the factors they release that protect against kidney injury; the mechanisms of homing and engraftment to sites of inflammation; and further elucidate the immunomodulatory effect of mesenchymal stem cells and their ability to alter macrophage phenotype in a setting of kidney damage and repair.
Controversial issues in pediatric regional anesthesia
Authors: Mossetti Valeria , Ivani Giorgio
Published: July 2011

Regional anesthesia in children has reached in the last decades a widespread approval and today is a valid and effective technique used in the daily activity in many pediatric centres. Data from surveys and studies show the very low rate of complications and suggest that the use of regional techniques in children is at least as safe as general anesthesia alone. Despite these evidences there are aspects still creating discussions on the best approach to avoid or prevent risks and on the way to make this techniques more and more reliable and safe. Compartment syndrome, test dose, loss‐of‐resistance technique and blocks performed under general anesthesia are examples of, sometimes, never‐ending stories; this review without the presumption to solve every problem shows the more recent data to offer, if possible, the best updated‐answer on these topics.
ARE SURVEYS OF EXPERTS UNBIASED? EVIDENCE FROM COLLEGE FOOTBALL RANKINGS
Authors: ROSS JUSTIN M. , LARSON SARAH E. , WALL CHAD
Published: July 2011

Policymakers are frequently interested in soliciting unbiased information regarding alternative policies, and expert surveys can be influential. As ranking policies is an often subjective process, there is always the concern of bias, both intentional and not. Expert bias is difficult to discern in the policy world, but surveys of expert opinion are compiled and “tested” for accuracy weekly in college football, allowing for hypothesis testing. Although previous research has used college football rankings to determine the ability of surveys to incorporate relevant information, this article examines the Associated Press and American Football Coaches' Association rankings for evidence of systematic bias. Specifically, more than 1,300 games from the 2003 to 2008 regular seasons are tested for factors that are systematically correlated with upsets. Both polls predict the winner nearly 80% of the time, and although there is evidence of systematic conference bias, correcting the rankings would only improve the accuracy of the polls by about 1%. There is no evidence of a bias favoring “big market” teams, nor teams that have strong journalism programs or are from the East Coast.(JELD4, L8)
Spatial Regulation, Dispersal, and the Aesthetics of the City: Conservation Officer Policing of Homeless People in Ottawa, Canada1
Authors: Walby Kevin , Lippert Randy
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  In this article, we examine the spatial regulation of homeless people by National Capital Commission (NCC) conservation officers in Canada's capital city, Ottawa. We explore NCC officer practices by analyzing occurrence reports obtained through access to information (ATI) requests and interview transcripts. We contend that policing of NCC parks is organized according to a logic of dispersal. Dispersal policing aims to preserve an aesthetic for public consumption and ceremonial nationalism, entails specific temporalities, and is actuated through a public/private policing network. We argue that “dispersal” more accurately conceptualizes the spatial regulation in this case compared with alternative concepts (ie banishment) and thus supplements existing typologies of spatial regulation. We conclude with a discussion of these typologies and of the worth of ATI for future research on urban policing and regulation.
One Money, One Market: A Revised Benchmark
Authors: Eicher Theo S. , Henn Christian
Published: July 2011

The introduction of the euro generated substantial interest in the impact of currency unions (CUs) on trade flows. Initial estimates suggested a tripling of trade, which gave rise to a literature in search of “more reasonable” CU effects. Theoretical derivations of the gravity model highlight, however that the CU literature neglects to control simultaneously for general equilibrium effects (multilateral resistance) and unobserved bilateral heterogeneity among trade partners. Once we introduce the appropriate controls, CU trade effects are shown to range around 50%. We also highlight that the practice of reporting average CU effects generates misleading results. The average effect is shown to be a composite of disparate individual CU effects ranging from 40% (euro) to about 100% (Central African franc).
Effects of a Free Trade Agreement on the Exchange Rate Pass‐through to Import Prices
Authors: Marmolejo Arnoldo López
Published: July 2011

This paper investigates the effect of trade liberalization on the exchange rate passthrough (ERPT) to import prices. To do so, it employs an empirical estimation of the effects of North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) on the Mexican ERPT, and uses a Ricardian general equilibrium model. The model identifies two channels that explain how the trade liberalization alters the ERPT. The first channel is the direct relationship between the tariffs and the pass‐through by good. The second channel is the effect that tariffs have on the composition of imports, altering indirectly the aggregate pass‐through.
Does Outsourcing Always Benefit Skilled Labor?
Authors: Hsu Kuang‐Chung
Published: July 2011

This paper builds a dynamic product cycle model with three kinds of labor inputs—scientists, white‐collar workers, and blue‐collar workers—and producer heterogeneity to find an explanation for why outsourcing did not cause wage inequality in the 1970s. According to the theoretical model, outsourcing decreases the wages of white‐collar workers and the relative wages of white‐collar workers to blue‐collar workers in the outsourcing home country if outsourcing industries are blue‐collar worker intensive compared with non‐outsourcing industries. Scientists who conduct research and development always benefit from outsourcing.
Offshore Outsourcing and Productivity: Evidence from Japanese Firm‐level Data Disaggregated by Tasks
Authors: Ito Banri , Tomiura Eiichi , Wakasugi Ryuhei
Published: July 2011

This paper examines the relationship of offshoring with productivity, based on the original survey data of Japanese firms. Productivity gains were found in the firms offshoring both manufacturing and service tasks, but not in the firms offshoring only either manufacturing or service tasks. This paper also finds that firms offshoring to various destinations tend to be more productive than non‐offshoring firms. These results suggest that the level of firms' engagement in offshoring is more important for productivity than whether or not firms engage in offshoring.
Environmental Regulation: An Incentive for Foreign Direct Investment
Authors: Dijkstra Bouwe R. , Mathew Anuj Joshua , Mukherjee Arijit
Published: July 2011

Empirical evidence has so far failed to confirm that lenient environmental regulation attracts investment from polluting firms. In a Cournot duopoly with a foreign firm and a domestic firm, we show that the foreign firm may want to relocate to the domestic country with stricter environmental regulation, when the move raises its rival domestic firm's cost by sufficiently more than its own. The domestic (foreign) country's welfare is (usually) lower with foreign direct investment.
Pre‐stroke use of beta‐blockers does not affect ischaemic stroke severity and outcome
Authors: De Raedt S. , Haentjens P. , De Smedt A. , Brouns R. , Uyttenboogaart M. , Luijckx G. J. , De Keyser J.
Published: July 2011

Background and purpose:  It is unclear whether pre‐stroke beta‐blockers use may influence stroke outcome. This study evaluates the independent effect of pre‐stroke use of beta‐blockers on ischaemic stroke severity and 3 months functional outcome.

Methods:  Pre‐stroke use of beta‐blockers was investigated in 1375 ischaemic stroke patients who had been included in two placebo‐controlled trials with lubeluzole. Stroke severity was assessed by either the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) or the European Stroke Scale (ESS). A modified Rankin scale (mRS) score of >3 at 3 months was used as measure for the poor functional outcome.

Results:  Two hundred and sixty four patients were on beta‐blockers prior to stroke onset, and 105 patients continued treatment after their stroke. Pretreatment with beta‐blockers did not influence baseline stroke severity. There was no difference in stroke severity between nonusers and those on either a selective beta1‐blocker or a non‐selective beta‐blocker. The likelihood of a poor outcome at 3 months was not influenced by pre‐stroke beta‐blocker use or beta‐blocker use before and continued after stroke onset.

Conclusions:  Pre‐stroke use of beta‐blockers does not appear to influence stroke severity and functional outcome at 3 months.
Psychometric evaluation of ‘The 25‐item Sex after MI Knowledge Test’ in a Swedish context
Authors: Svedberg Petra , Johansson Ingela , Persson Sylvie , Roxberg Åsa , Fridlund Bengt , Baigi Amir , Brunt David , Roijer Carin Alm , Malm Dan , Rask Mikael , Nilsson Ulrica ,   the SAMMI‐study group
Published: July 2011

Scand J Caring Sci; 2012; 26; 203–208

Psychometric evaluation of ‘The 25‐item Sex after MI Knowledge Test’ in a Swedish context

The patients’ sexual life after a myocardial infarction is important for his/her quality of life. In spite of this, many patients are in doubt regarding their sex life after a myocardial infarction (MI) and the sexual information received, and counselling from health care providers has been seen to be insufficient. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of ‘The 25‐item Sex after MI Knowledge Test’ in a Swedish context. A convenience sample was recruited. The scale was translated into Swedish and completed by 79 former patients from The Heart and Lung Patients’ National Association on two occasions, with an interval of 2 weeks. The scale was tested for face and content validity, internal consistency and test–retest reliability. The result in this study indicates that the instrument has good face and content validity and displayed a moderate internal consistency (alpha 0.61). The instrument showed some level of instability in test–retest reliability with 60% of the items presenting moderate or strong agreement between the test and retest. Further studies that use this instrument in larger and more diverse samples are thus needed.
Extended Analysis of a Damage Prognosis Approach Based on Interval Arithmetic
Authors: Surace C. , Worden K.
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  In the previous work by the authors, an approach to damage prognosis which incorporates the effects of uncertainties has been proposed. This approach is based on the idea of integrating the laws for damage progression within the framework of interval arithmetic, a framework that naturally accommodates uncertainty. The modest purposes of this study are to extend/modify the approach in a small but significant manner and also to consider a more complex problem than the previous benchmark. The developments in the paper are illustrated through two case studies. The first case study revisits the benchmark of the initial paper – an isotropic finite plate under harmonic uniaxial loading, where the damage is assumed to be a central, mode I, through‐crack. The damage propagation model for the cracked plate is the Paris‐Erdogan law. The second example considers the growth of internal delaminations in composite plates subjected to cyclic compression. Under compressive loading, laminated composite plates experience repeated buckling‐unloading of the delaminated layer with a consequent reduction in interlayer resistance. The state of stress near the delamination tip is of mixed mode I and II. A graphite‐epoxy unidirectional specimen has been assumed here and the thin‐film model of Chai and colleagues is used; the latter is a closed‐form solution for the initial post‐buckling and growth behaviour in the ideal case of a surface delamination in an infinitely thick plate. The delamination growth law considered is the one proposed by Kardomateas and co‐workers. As the objective of the study is to examine the effects of uncertainties, the various models are considered within the framework of interval arithmetic; Monte Carlo analysis is also carried out to provide a basis for comparison.
Why feed the hand that bites you? Perceptions of procedural fairness and system support in post‐communist democracies
Authors: LINDE JONAS
Published: July 2011

There is widespread agreement that bad governance and corruption represent daunting threats to new democracies and developing countries. Nonetheless, mainstream research on system support and political legitimacy has to a large extent overlooked the crucial importance of public perceptions of procedural fairness for fostering public support and regime legitimacy. Taking its departure in the theory of procedural fairness, this article challenges the conventional wisdom of earlier research by arguing and demonstrating that public perceptions of procedural fairness and impartiality on behalf of the authorities are the most important determinants of system support in the post‐communist European Union Member States. The empirical analysis lends strong support to the fact that perceptions of fairness and the extent of corruption exercise a strong effect on public support for the performance of the political system and approval of regime principles.
Effects of Stream Restoration on Woody Riparian Vegetation of Southern Appalachian Mountain Streams, North Carolina, U.S.A
Authors: Kaase Christopher T. , Katz Gabrielle L.
Published: July 2011

Riparian revegetation, such as planting woody seedlings or live stakes, is a nearly ubiquitous component of stream restoration projects in the United States. Though evaluations of restoration success usually focus on in‐stream ecosystems, in order to understand the full impacts of restoration the effects on riparian ecosystems themselves must be considered. We examined the effects of stream restoration revegetation measures on riparian ecosystems of headwater mountain streams in forested watersheds by comparing riparian vegetation structure and composition at reference, restored, and degraded sites on nine streams. According to mixed model analysis of variance (ANOVA), there was a significant effect of site treatment on riparian species richness, basal area, and canopy cover, but no effect on stem density. Vegetation characteristics at restored sites differed from those of reference sites according to all metrics (i.e. basal area, canopy cover, and species composition) except species richness and stem density. Restored and degraded sites were structurally similar, with some overlap in species composition. Restored sites were dominated by Salix sericea and Cornus amomum (species commonly planted for revegetation) and a suite of disturbance‐adapted species also dominant at degraded sites. Differences between reference and restored sites might be due to the young age of restored sites (average 4 years since restoration), to reassembly of degraded site species composition at restored sites, or to the creation of a novel anthropogenic ecosystem on these headwater streams. Additional research is needed to determine if this anthropogenic riparian community type persists as a resilient novel ecosystem and provides valued riparian functions.
PLASTICITY OF OXYLIPIN METABOLISM AMONG CLONES OF THE MARINE DIATOM SKELETONEMA MARINOI (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Gerecht Andrea , Romano Giovanna , Ianora Adrianna , d’Ippolito Giuliana , Cutignano Adele , Fontana Angelo
Published: July 2011

Diatom oxylipins have been observed to deleteriously impact copepod reproductive success. However, field studies have revealed very variable and case‐dependent results. Therefore, the plasticity of diatom oxylipin metabolism was studied among four clones of the marine diatom Skeletonema marinoi Sarno et Zingone. Diatom oxylipin metabolism was studied by two lipoxygenase (LOX) activity assays carried out at different pH values and by oxylipin quantification. The four clones showed no major metabolic differences in terms of protein content or growth rate. However, two of the clones produced significantly higher levels of oxylipins than the other two. LOX activity measurements also indicated clonal variability in fatty acid oxidative metabolism. The presence of clone‐specific differences in oxylipin metabolism may play a role in shaping diatom population dynamics by conferring selective advantages to certain clones.
Returns to Skills and the College Premium
Authors: CUNHA FLAVIO , KARAHAN FATIH , SOARES ILTON
Published: July 2011

A substantial literature documents the evolution of the college premium in the U.S. labor market over the last 40 years or so. There are at least three different interpretations of this fact: (i) shifts in the relative supply of and demand for college versus high school labor, (ii) shifts in the relative supply of and demand for skills in the college versus high school sector, and (iii) composition effects. We investigate how each of these components contributes to the dynamics of the college premium and find that all three play a role, but the increase in the college premium is primarily driven by the first component. We also find that during the 1980s, the college premium for high school workers diverged from the college premium for college workers and a substantial fraction of the gap that opens up is primarily due to the increase in the returns to cognitive skills.
A Survey of New Keynesian Theories of Aggregate Supply and Their Relation to Industrial Organization
Authors: LEAHY JOHN
Published: July 2011

I survey the recent literature on the Phillips curve. Along the way, I will try to relate this literature to topics of interest to industrial organization. I will also point out the gaps in our understanding and places where more careful micro‐economic analysis would be helpful to macroeconomists. In the conclusion, I summarize what an industrial organization economist might take away from this literature.
Optimal Taxation: Merging Micro and Macro Approaches
Authors: GOLOSOV MIKHAIL , TROSHKIN MAXIM , TSYVINSKI ALEH
Published: July 2011

This paper argues that the large body of research that follows Mirrlees approach to optimal taxation has been developing in two directions, referred to as the micro and macro literatures. We review the two literatures and argue that both deliver important insights that are often complementary to each other. We argue that merging the micro and macro approaches can prove beneficial to our understanding of the nature of efficient redistribution and social insurance and can deliver implementable policy recommendations.
Social Preferences and Competition
Authors: SCHMIDT KLAUS M.
Published: July 2011

There is a general presumption that social preferences can be ignored if markets are competitive. Market experiments (Smith 1962) and recent theoretical results (Dufwenberg et al. Forthcoming) suggest that competition forces people to behave as if they were purely self‐interested. We qualify this view. Social preferences tend to be irrelevant if two conditions are met: separability of preferences and completeness of contracts. These conditions are often plausible, but they fail to hold when uncertainty is important (financial markets) or when incomplete contracts are traded (labor markets). Social preferences can explain many of the anomalies frequently observed on these markets.
Rheological and Structural Characterization of Ni–SiO2 Nanocomposites Produced by Aqueous Colloidal Processing
Authors: Vieira Luiz E. , Rodrigues Neto João B. , Klein Aloísio N. , Moreno Rodrigo , Hotza Dachamir
Published: July 2011

In this work, nickel–silica nanocomposites were fabricated via colloidal processing. A rheological approach was used to characterize and to optimize a 30 vol% nickel aqueous suspension with up to 10 vol% SiO2 nanoparticles. The slurries showed a plastic and shear‐thinning behavior that retards sedimentation and facilitates the shaping of compacts. Slips were cast in plaster mold using ammonium polyacrylate as dispersant and tetramethylammonium hydroxide for adjusting the pH at 10.0 ± 0.1. Green bodies were sintered at 900°C for 1 h in flowing argon/5% hydrogen atmosphere. Porous and dense materials were characterized by SEM/FE‐SEM, Archimedes’ densities, and Vicker's microhardness measurements. Composites showed homogeneous microstructure, refined grain size, good densification (15 vol% pores), and hardness up to 250 Hv.
Cx31.1 acts as a tumour suppressor in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines through inhibition of cell proliferation and metastasis
Authors: Zhang Deqiang , Chen Chengwen , Li Yuan , Fu Xuping , Xie Yi , Li Yao , Huang Yan
Published: July 2011

Reduced connexin expression and loss of gap junction function is a characteristic of many cancers, including lung cancer. However, there are little reports about the relation between Cx31.1 and lung cancer. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of Cx31.1 on non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We found that the Cx31.1 was down‐regulated in NSCLC cell lines, and the expression levels were reversely related with their metastatic potential. We ectopically expressed Cx31.1 in H1299 NSCLC cell line to examine the influence of Cx31.1 overexpression. The results showed that overexpression of Cx31.1 in H1299 cells reduced cell proliferation, induced a delay in the G1phase, inhibited anchorage‐independent growth and suppressed cell migration and invasion. The cell cycle delay and cell migration and invasion suppressive effects of Cx31.1 were partially reversed by siRNA targeting mRNA of Cx31.1. Moreover, xenografts of Cx31.1 overexpressing H1299 cells showed reduced tumourigenicity. These results suggested that Cx31.1 has tumour‐suppressive properties. Further investigation indicated that cyclin D3 may be responsible for Cx31.1‐induced G1phase delay. Importantly, Cx31.1 increased the expression of epithelial markers, such as cytokeratin 18, and decreased expression of mesenchymal markers, such as vimentin, indicating a Cx31.1‐mediated partial shift from a mesenchymal towards an epithelial phenotype. We concluded that Cx31.1 inhibit the malignant properties of NSCLC cell lines, the mechanisms under this may include regulation of EMT.
When trophically‐transmitted parasites combine predation enhancement with predation suppression to optimize their transmission
Authors: Médoc Vincent , Beisel Jean‐Nicolas
Published: July 2011

Trophically‐transmitted parasites are known for their ability to enhance predation of their intermediate host but they are less known for their ability to suppress predation. We review recent literature on host manipulation explaining why and when in its life cycle a parasite benefits from preventing the predation of its host. Predation suppression occurs in intermediate hosts as long as the parasite larva has not reached the developmental conditions allowing it to successfully establish in the next host (competency). We also examine the possibility that predation suppression may occur in hosts harbouring competent larvae (post competency) since some parasites have been shown to manipulate host behaviour in a way that decreases the risk of parasite death through non‐host predation (i.e. the consumption of its intermediate host by a predator that does not risk infection). Predation suppression when the parasite is competent has to be considered with respect to non‐host predation risk and is not mutually exclusive with predation enhancement. We use the recent theoretical advances in host manipulation to investigate the conditions under which predation suppression could evolve post competency.
Changes in miRNA expression in sera and correlation to duration of disease in patients with multifocal mucosal lichen planus
Authors: Nylander Elisabet , Ebrahimi Majid , Wahlin Ylva‐Britt , Boldrup Linda , Nylander Karin
Published: July 2011

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 86–89

Background:  Mucosal lichen planus is a severe variant of lichen planus, Lichen planus (LP), which in many ways affect patients’ lives. The aetiology is not fully understood, and there is no treatment clearing the disease once and for all. Oral LP has by the WHO been classified as a precancerous lesion. Micro‐RNAs, miRNAs, are non‐coding, small single‐stranded RNAs involved in biological processes like apoptosis, proliferation, differentiation, metastasis, angiogenesis and immune response.

Methods and Results:  In sera from 30 patients with multifocal mucosal LP, 15 miRNAs were identified as significantly differentially expressed compared with controls. The three most up‐regulated miRNAs are all connected to oral squamous cell carcinoma or epithelial carcinoma in general.

Discussion:  Even if no specific LP‐associated miRNA profile was found, data clearly indicate that miRNAs could play a role in the earlier phases of lichen planus.
A Modular and Combinatorial View of the Antigen Cross‐Presentation Pathway in Dendritic Cells
Authors: Segura Elodie , Villadangos José A.
Published: July 2011

Major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) presentation of exogenous antigens (cross‐presentation) by dendritic cells (DC) is essential for CD8 T‐cell immunity. Most cells use MHC I molecules to present peptides derived from endogenous proteins processed in the cytosol by the proteasome. The resulting peptides are translocated into the endoplasmic reticulum for loading onto MHC I molecules, and these complexes are then transported to the cell surface. In cross‐presenting DC, these steps have been proposed to occur along two major tracks. In the ‘endocytic’ track, exogenous antigen processing and loading occur within endosomal compartments, using MHC I molecules recycled from the plasma membrane and transported back to the surface. In the ‘cytosolic’ track, antigens are translocated from endosomes to the cytosol, accessing the endogenous MHC I presentation pathway. This dichotomy now appears too simplistic. Some steps may occur in locations belonging to the endosomal track and others in the cytosolic track, or in hybrid compartments combining features of both. We propose a ‘modular’ view of cross‐presentation, whereby processing, loading and MHC I transport represent modules that can occur in one or more locations. Cross‐presentation of each MHC I–peptide complex may result from combining one or more options for each of these modules.
STARRY SKY HEPATIC ULTRASONOGRAPHIC PATTERN IN HORSES
Authors: CARLSON KELLY L. , CHAFFIN M. KEITH , CORAPI WAYNE V. , SNOWDEN KAREN F. , SCHMITZ DAVID G.
Published: July 2011

The starry sky hepatic pattern is an unusual ultrasonographic appearance of equine liver characterized by numerous small, hyperechoic foci, some of which cast an acoustic shadow, distributed randomly throughout the hepatic parenchyma. Our objectives were to describe the signalment, clinical signs, clinicopathological findings, primary disease process, and ultrasonographic findings of horses with this ultrasonographic pattern, as well as determine the associated gross and histologic changes. The starry sky pattern was identified in 18 adult horses of mixed gender and breed. The horses had various clinical signs, with weight loss and anorexia reported most commonly. Liver size and parenchymal echogenicity were normal in most horses. The hyperechoic foci frequently caused acoustic shadowing. Biliary dilation was noted rarely. The ultrasonographic pattern was the result of numerous fibrosing hepatic granulomas in all horses evaluated histologically. γ‐Glutamyltransferase was the most commonly elevated hepatic enzyme, though it was increased in fewer than half the horses. Fifteen horses had an additional disease that was identified as the apparent cause of clinical signs. Three horses had primary hepatic disease while 12 had diseases of other body systems. Therefore, the starry sky ultrasonographic pattern is likely incidental in most horses and not clinically significant. Improved recognition of this pattern and further investigation of affected horses may help refine the etiology and clinical significance of the granulomas.
Attitudes towards health‐care robots in a retirement village
Authors: Broadbent Elizabeth , Tamagawa Rie , Patience Anna , Knock Brett , Kerse Ngaire , Day Karen , MacDonald Bruce A
Published: July 2011

Aim:  This study investigated the attitudes and preferences of staff, residents and relatives of residents in a retirement village towards a health‐care robot.

Methods:  Focus groups were conducted with residents, managers and caregivers, and questionnaires were collected from 32 residents, 30 staff and 27 relatives of residents.

Results:  The most popular robot tasks were detection of falls and calling for help, lifting, and monitoring location. Robot functionality was more important than appearance. Concerns included the loss of jobs and personal care, while perceived benefits included allowing staff to spend quality time with residents, and helping residents with self‐care. Residents showed a more positive attitude towards robots than both staff and relatives.

Conclusions:  These results provide an initial guide for the tasks and appearance appropriate for a robot to provide assistance in aged care facilities and highlight concerns.
The dynein microtubule motor: architecture and force generation, cellular roles of dynein light chain DYNLL and role of dynein during virus infection
Authors: Rodríguez‐Crespo Ignacio
Published: July 2011

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The association of viral proteins with host cell dynein components during virus infection
Authors: Merino‐Gracia Javier , García‐Mayoral María F. , Rodríguez‐Crespo Ignacio
Published: July 2011

After fusion with the cellular plasma membrane or endosomal membranes, viral particles are generally too large to diffuse freely within the crowded cytoplasm environment. Thus, they will never reach the cell nucleus or the perinuclear areas where replication or reverse transcription usually takes place. It has been proposed that many unrelated viruses are transported along microtubules in a retrograde manner using the cellular dynein machinery or, at least, some dynein components. A putative employment of the dynein motor in a dynein‐mediated transport has been suggested from experiments in which viral capsid proteins were used as bait in yeast two‐hybrid screens using libraries composed of cellular proteins and dynein‐associated chains were retrieved as virus‐interacting proteins. In most cases DYNLL1, DYNLT1 or DYNLRB1 were identified as the dynein chains that interact with viral proteins. The importance of these dynein–virus interactions has been supported, in principle, by the observation that in some cases the dynein‐interacting motifs of viral proteins altered by site‐directed mutagenesis result in non‐infective virions. Furthermore, overexpression of p50 dynamitin, which blocks the dynein–dynactin interaction, or incubation of infected cells with peptides that compete with viral polypeptides for dynein binding have been shown to alter the viral retrograde transport. Still, it remains to be proved that dynein light chains can bind simultaneously to incoming virions and to the dynein motor for retrograde transport to take place. In this review, we will analyse the association of viral proteins with dynein polypeptides and its implications for viral infection.
Molecular organization and force‐generating mechanism of dynein
Authors: Sakakibara Hitoshi , Oiwa Kazuhiro
Published: July 2011

Dynein, which is a minus‐end‐directed microtubule motor, is crucial to a range of cellular processes. The mass of its motor domain is about 10 times that of kinesin, the other microtubule motor. Its large size and the difficulty of expressing and purifying mutants have hampered progress in dynein research. Recently, however, electron microscopy, X‐ray crystallography and single‐molecule nanometry have shed light on several key unsolved questions concerning how the dynein molecule is organized, what conformational changes in the molecule accompany ATP hydrolysis, and whether two or three motor domains are coordinated in the movements of dynein. This minireview describes our current knowledge of the molecular organization and the force‐generating mechanism of dynein, with emphasis on findings from electron microscopy and single‐molecule nanometry.