bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RNA triplexes: from structural principles to biological and biotech applications
Authors: Devi Gitali , Zhou Yuan , Zhong Zhensheng , Toh Desiree‐Faye Kaixin , Chen Gang
Published: August 2014

The diverse biological functions of RNA are determined by the complex structures of RNA stabilized by both secondary and tertiary interactions. An RNA triplex is an important tertiary structure motif that is found in many pseudoknots and other structured RNAs. A triplex structure usually forms through tertiary interactions in the major or minor groove of a Watson–Crick base‐paired stem. A major‐groove RNA triplex structure is stable in isolation by forming consecutive major‐groove base triples such as U·A‐U and C+·G‐C. Minor‐groove RNA triplexes, e.g., A‐minor motif triplexes, are found in almost all large structured RNAs. As double‐stranded RNA stem regions are often involved in biologically important tertiary triplex structure formation and protein binding, the ability to sequence specifically target any desired RNA duplexes by triplex formation would have great potential for biomedical applications. Programmable chemically modified triplex‐forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) and triplex‐forming peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) have been developed to form TFO·RNA2 and PNA·RNA2 triplexes, respectively, with enhanced binding affinity and sequence specificity at physiological conditions. Here, we (1) provide an overview of naturally occurring RNA triplexes, (2) summarize the experimental methods for studying triplexes, and (3) review the development of TFOs and triplex‐forming PNAs for targeting an HIV‐1 ribosomal frameshift‐inducing RNA, a bacterial ribosomal A‐site RNA, and a human microRNA hairpin precursor, and for inhibiting the RNA–protein interactions involving human RNA‐dependent protein kinase and HIV‐1 viral protein Rev. WIREs RNA 2015, 6:111–128. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1261

This article is categorized under:

RNA Structure and Dynamics > RNA Structure, Dynamics, and Chemistry

RNA Structure and Dynamics > Influence of RNA Structure in Biological Systems

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Small Molecule–RNA Interactions

Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs
EPA and DHA Status of South Asian and White Canadians Living in the National Capital Region of Canada
Authors: Nagasaka Reiko , Gagnon Claude , Swist Eleonora , Rondeau Isabelle , Massarelli Isabelle , Cheung Winnie , Ratnayake Walisundera M. N.
Published: August 2014

To minimize the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), most dietary guidelines have recommended consuming 500 mg/day of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) + docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) or two servings of oily fish/week. The sum of percent EPA and DHA in red blood cell (RBC) total fatty acids‐termed the omega‐3 index‐has been proposed as a biomarker for assessing the risk of death from CVD. The omega‐3 indices of ≤4, >4 to <8 and ≥8 % have been proposed to be associated with high, intermediate and low CVD risks, respectively. In this study, we determined the EPA + DHA intake level and the omega‐3 index of South Asian Canadians (SAC; n = 308) and white Canadians (WC; n = 341) age 20–79 years living in the National Capital Region of Canada. The mean EPA + DHA intake levels were 569 ± 571 mg/day for SAC and 684 ± 865 mg/day for WC and 46 % of SAC and 43 % of WC met the recommended EPA + DHA intake level of 500 mg/day. The mean omega‐3 indices were 6.6 and 5.9 % for SAC and WC respectively. The suggested cardio‐protective target level for the omega‐3 index of ≥8 % was observed only in 19.8 % of SAC and in 9.4 % of WC subjects. The majority of the participants (74.4 % of SAC and 82.7 % of WC) were in the >4 to <8 % range. These results suggest that although study participants' dietary intake of EPA + DHA is adequate, this intake was not sufficient to provide an omega‐3 index that is considered cardio‐protective.
Förderung von Regionalen Netzwerken: Messbare Effekte für die Regionalentwicklung?
Authors: Diller Christian , Nischwitz Guido , Kreutz Benedict
Published: August 2014

The change of paradigm of the policy for rural regions towards cooperative and actor-orientated regional development nowadays is hardly doubted. Nevertheless there are few findings on the effectivity of these subsidiaries. Presented in this article is the result of a nation-wide regional statistical analysis to the correlation of the support-programmes for cooperative regional development on one hand and established regional development indicators und the other hand. The distinctive feature to other analyses is the simultaneous analysis of several programmes supported by several political departements over a longer period. The result is obvious: in fact, effects for the regional development are not commensurable. This remarkable finding should give impulses for the enhancements of the instruments of rural development.
MiR-139-5p inhibits migration and invasion of colorectal cancer by downregulating AMFR and NOTCH1
Authors: Song Mingxu , Yin Yuan , Zhang Jiwei , Zhang Binbin , Bian Zehua , Quan Chao , Zhou Leyuan , Hu Yaling , Wang Qifeng , Ni Shujuan , Fei Bojian , Wang Weili , Du Xiang , Hua Dong , Huang Zhaohui
Published: August 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) that exert function by posttranscriptional suppression have recently brought insight in our understanding of the role of non-protein-coding RNAs in carcinogenesis and metastasis. In this study, we described the function and molecular mechanism of miR-139-5p in colorectal cancer (CRC) and its potential clinical application in CRC. We found that miR-139-5p was significantly downregulated in 73.8% CRC samples compared with adjacent noncancerous tissues (NCTs), and decreased miR-139-5p was associated with poor prognosis. Functional analyses demonstrated that ectopic expression of miR-139-5p suppressed CRC cell migration and invasion in vitro and metastasis in vivo. Mechanistic investigations revealed that miR-139-5p suppress CRC cell invasion and metastasis by targeting AMFR and NOTCH1. Knockdown of the two genes phenocopied the inhibitory effect of miR-139-5p on CRC metastasis. Furthermore, the protein levels of the two genes were upregulated in CRC samples compared with NCTs, and inversely correlated with the miR-139-5p expression. Increased NOTCH1 protein expression was correlated with poor prognosis of CRC patients. Together, our data indicate that miR-139-5p is a potential tumor suppressor and prognostic factor for CRC, and targeting miR-139-5p may repress the metastasis of CRC and improve survival.
Gender Pay Gap and Employment Sector: Sources of Earnings Disparities in the United States, 1970–2010
Authors: Mandel Hadas , Semyonov Moshe
Published: August 2014

Using data from the IPUMS-USA, the present research focuses on trends in the gender earnings gap in the United States between 1970 and 2010. The major goal of this article is to understand the sources of the convergence in men’s and women’s earnings in the public and private sectors as well as the stagnation of this trend in the new millennium. For this purpose, we delineate temporal changes in the role played by major sources of the gap. Several components are identified: the portion of the gap attributed to gender differences in human-capital resources; labor supply; sociodemographic attributes; occupational segregation; and the unexplained portion of the gap. The findings reveal a substantial reduction in the gross gender earnings gap in both sectors of the economy. Most of the decline is attributed to the reduction in the unexplained portion of the gap, implying a significant decline in economic discrimination against women. In contrast to discrimination, the role played by human capital and personal attributes in explaining the gender pay gap is relatively small in both sectors. Differences between the two sectors are not only in the size and pace of the reduction but also in the significance of the two major sources of the gap. Working hours have become the most important factor with respect to gender pay inequality in both sectors, although much more dominantly in the private sector. The declining gender segregation may explain the decreased impact of occupations on the gender pay gap in the private sector. In the public sector, by contrast, gender segregation still accounts for a substantial portion of the gap. The findings are discussed in light of the theoretical literature on sources of gender economic inequality and in light of the recent stagnation of the trend.
Holocene sea-surface temperature variability in the Chilean fjord region
Authors: Caniupán Magaly , Lamy Frank , Lange Carina B. , Kaiser Jérôme , Kilian Rolf , Arz Helge W. , León Tania , Mollenhauer Gesine , Sandoval Susana , De Pol-Holz Ricardo , Pantoja Silvio , Wellner Julia , Tiedemann Ralf
Published: August 2014

Here we provide three new Holocene (11–0 cal ka BP) alkenone-derived sea surface temperature (SST) records from the southernmost Chilean fjord region (50–53°S). SST estimates may be biased towards summer temperature in this region, as revealed by a large set of surface sediments. The Holocene records show consistently warmer than present-day SSTs except for the past ~ 0.6 cal ka BP. However, they do not exhibit an early Holocene temperature optimum as registered further north off Chile and in Antarctica. This may have resulted from a combination of factors including decreased inflow of warmer open marine waters due to lower sea-level stands, enhanced advection of colder and fresher inner fjord waters, and stronger westerly winds. During the mid-Holocene, pronounced short-term variations of up to 2.5°C and a cooling centered at ~ 5 cal ka BP, which coincides with the first Neoglacial glacier advance in the Southern Andes, are recorded. The latest Holocene is characterized by two pronounced cold events centered at ~ 0.6 and 0.25 cal ka BP, i.e., during the Little Ice Age. These cold events have lower amplitudes in the offshore records, suggesting an amplification of the SST signal in the inner fjords.
UNREFLECTIVE EPISTEMOLOGY
Authors: Kelp Christoph
Published: August 2014

Virtue epistemological accounts of knowledge claim that knowledge is a species of a broader normative category, to wit of success from ability. Fake Barn cases pose a difficult problem for such accounts. In structurally analogous but non-epistemic cases, the agents attain the relevant success from ability. If knowledge is just another form of success from ability, the pressure is on to treat Fake Barn cases as cases of knowledge. The challenge virtue epistemology faces is to explain the intuitive lack of knowledge in Fake Barn cases, whilst holding on to the core claim that knowledge is success from ability. Ernest Sosa's version of virtue epistemology promises to rise to this challenge. Sosa distinguishes two types of knowledge, animal knowledge and reflective knowledge. He argues that while animal knowledge is present in Fake Barn cases, reflective knowledge is absent and ventures to explain the intuition of ignorance by the absence of reflective knowledge. This paper argues that Sosa's treatment of Fake Barn cases fails as it commits Sosa to a number of highly counterintuitive results elsewhere in epistemology.
A two-phase flow model of sediment transport: transition from bedload to suspended load
Authors: Chiodi Filippo , Claudin Philippe , Andreotti Bruno
Published: August 2014

The transport of dense particles by a turbulent flow depends on two dimensionless numbers. Depending on the ratio of the shear velocity of the flow to the settling velocity of the particles (or the Rouse number), sediment transport takes place in a thin layer localized at the surface of the sediment bed (bedload) or over the whole water depth (suspended load). Moreover, depending on the sedimentation Reynolds number, the bedload layer is embedded in the viscous sublayer or is larger. We propose here a two-phase flow model able to describe both viscous and turbulent shear flows. Particle migration is described as resulting from normal stresses, but is limited by turbulent mixing and shear-induced diffusion of particles. Using this framework, we theoretically investigate the transition between bedload and suspended load.
Inertially induced cyclic solutions in thin-film free-surface flows
Authors: Groh C. M. , Kelmanson M. A.
Published: August 2014

New mechanisms are discovered regarding the effects of inertia in the transient Moffatt–Pukhnachov problem (J. Méc., vol. 187, 1977, pp. 651–673) on the evolution of the free surface of a viscous film coating the exterior of a rotating horizontal cylinder. Assuming two-dimensional evolution of the film thickness (i.e. neglecting variation in the axial direction), a multiple-timescale procedure is used to obtain explicitly parameterized high-order asymptotic approximations of solutions of the spatio-temporal evolution equation. Novel, hitherto-unexplained transitions from stability to instability are observed as inertia is increased. In particular, a critical Reynolds number $\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}\mathit{Re}_c$ is predicted at which occurs a supercritical pitchfork bifurcation in wave amplitude that is fully explained by the new asymptotic theory. For $\mathit{Re}<\mathit{Re}_c$, free-surface profiles converge algebraically-cum-exponentially to a steady state and, for $\mathit{Re}> \mathit{Re}_c$, stable temporally periodic solutions with leading-order amplitudes proportional to $(\mathit{Re}-\mathit{Re}_c)^{1/2}$ are found, i.e. in the régime in which previous related literature predicts exponentially divergent instability. For $\mathit{Re}=\mathit{Re}_c$, stable solutions are found that decay algebraically to a steady state. A model solution is proposed that not only captures qualitatively the interaction between fundamental and higher-order wave modes but also offers an explanation for the formation of the lobes observed in Moffatt’s original experiments. All asymptotic theory is convincingly corroborated by numerical integrations that are spectrally accurate in space and eighth/ninth-order accurate in time.
Using Slowmation to Develop the Social Skills of Primary School Students with Mild Intellectual Disabilities: Four Case Studies
Authors: Shepherd Alyce , Hoban Garry , Dixon Roselyn
Published: August 2014

This study explored the potential of using a new but simplified form of stop-motion animation called slowmation to support 4 primary school students with mild intellectual disabilities in co-constructing an animated social narrative about their own social skills. The research used a multiple case study design incorporating a range of qualitative methods to identify what stop-motion skills the students could use and to what extent the co-construction of an animation influenced their identification of their own social skills. Findings revealed that each student was able to use a range of stop-motion skills with varying levels of support. As a consequence of their co-construction, the students’ understanding of their own social skills increased. Classroom implications, limitations and recommendations for further study are discussed.
Political Devolution and Resistance to Foreign Rule: A Natural Experiment
Authors: FERWERDA JEREMY , MILLER NICHOLAS L.
Published: August 2014

Do foreign occupiers face less resistance when they increase the level of native governing authority? Although this is a central question within the literature on foreign occupation and insurgency, it is difficult to answer because the relationship between resistance and political devolution is typically endogenous. To address this issue, we identify a natural experiment based on the locally arbitrary assignment of French municipalities into German or Vichy-governed zones during World War II. Using a regression discontinuity design, we conclude that devolving governing authority significantly lowered levels of resistance. We argue that this effect is driven by a process of political cooptation: domestic groups that were granted governing authority were less likely to engage in resistance activity, while violent resistance was heightened in regions dominated by groups excluded from the governing regime. This finding stands in contrast to work that primarily emphasizes structural factors or nationalist motivations for resistance.
Is Voter Competence Good for Voters?: Information, Rationality, and Democratic Performance
Authors: ASHWORTH SCOTT , BUENO DE MESQUITA ETHAN
Published: August 2014

A long research tradition in behavioral political science evaluates the performance of democracy by examining voter competence. This literature got its start arguing that voters' lack of information undermines a defense of democracy rooted in electoral accountability. A more recent literature deepens the debate, with some authors claiming that voters effectively use cues to substitute for information about candidates and policies, and other authors claiming that voters are insufficiently rational to do so. We argue that, regardless of its conclusions about voter competence, this literature’s single-minded focus on voter behavior is misguided. We use a sequence of formal models to show that traditional intuitions are incomplete because they ignore the effect that changes in voter behavior have on the equilibrium behavior of politicians. When this strategic interaction is taken into account, increases in voter information or voter rationality sometimes make democratic performance better and sometimes make democratic performance worse. One simply cannot assess the implications of voter characteristics for democratic performance without also studying how those characteristics affect the behavior of politicians.
“I wld like u WMP to extend electricity 2 our village”: On Information Technology and Interest Articulation
Authors: GROSSMAN GUY , HUMPHREYS MACARTAN , SACRAMONE-LUTZ GABRIELLA
Published: August 2014

How does access to information communication technology (ICT) affect who gets heard and what gets communicated to politicians? On the one hand, ICT can lower communication costs for poorer constituents; on the other, technological channels may be used disproportionately more by the already well connected. To assess the flattening effects of ICTs, we presented a representative sample of constituents in Uganda with an opportunity to send a text message to their representatives at one of three randomly assigned prices. Critically, and contrary to concerns that technological innovations benefit the privileged, we find evidence that ICT can lead to significant flattening: a greater share of marginalized populations use this channel compared to existing political communication channels. Price plays a more complex role. Subsidizing the full cost of messaging increases uptake by over 40%. Surprisingly however, subsidy-induced increases in uptake do not yield further flattening since free channels are not used at higher rates by more marginalized constituents.
RICCI FLOWS ON SURFACES RELATED TO THE EINSTEIN WEYL AND ABELIAN VORTEX EQUATIONS
Authors: FOX DANIEL J. F.
Published: August 2014

There are described equations for a pair comprising a Riemannian metric and a Killing field on a surface that contain as special cases the Einstein Weyl equations (in the sense of D. Calderbank) and a real version of a special case of the Abelian vortex equations, and it is shown that the property that a metric solve these equations is preserved by the Ricci flow. The equations are solved explicitly, and among the metrics obtained are all steady gradient Ricci solitons (e.g. the cigar soliton) and the sausage metric; there are found other examples of eternal, ancient, and immortal Ricci flows, as well as some Ricci flows with conical singularities.
THE UNKNOTTING NUMBER AND CLASSICAL INVARIANTS II
Authors: BORODZIK MACIEJ , FRIEDL STEFAN
Published: August 2014

In [3] the authors (M. Borodzik and S. Friedl, Unknotting number and classical invariants (preprint 2012)) associated to a knot K ⊂ S3 an invariant nℝ(K), which is defined using the Blanchfield form and which gives a lower bound on the unknotting number. In this paper, we express nℝ(K) in terms of the Levine-Tristram signatures and nullities of K. We also show in the proof that the Blanchfield form for any knot K is diagonalisable over ℝ[t±1].
THE LOCAL NON-HOMOGENEOUS Tb THEOREM FOR VECTOR-VALUED FUNCTIONS
Authors: HYTÖNEN TUOMAS P. , VÄHÄKANGAS ANTTI V.
Published: August 2014

We extend the local non-homogeneous Tb theorem of Nazarov, Treil and Volberg to the setting of singular integrals with operator-valued kernel that act on vector-valued functions. Here, ‘vector-valued’ means ‘taking values in a function lattice with the UMD (unconditional martingale differences) property’. A similar extension (but for general UMD spaces rather than UMD lattices) of Nazarov-Treil-Volberg's global non-homogeneous Tb theorem was achieved earlier by the first author, and it has found applications in the work of Mayboroda and Volberg on square-functions and rectifiability. Our local version requires several elaborations of the previous techniques, and raises new questions about the limits of the vector-valued theory.
AN ALTERNATIVE PERSPECTIVE ON PROJECTIVITY OF MODULES
Authors: HOLSTON CHRIS , LÓPEZ-PERMOUTH SERGIO R. , MASTROMATTEO JOSEPH , SIMENTAL-RODRÍGUEZ JOSÉ E.
Published: August 2014

We approach the analysis of the extent of the projectivity of modules from a fresh perspective as we introduce the notion of relative subprojectivity. A module M is said to be N-subprojective if for every epimorphism g : B → N and homomorphism f : M → N, there exists a homomorphism h : M → B such that gh = f. For a module M, the subprojectivity domain of M is defined to be the collection of all modules N such that M is N-subprojective. We consider, for every ring R, the subprojective profile of R, namely, the class of all subprojectivity domains for R modules. We show that the subprojective profile of R is a semi-lattice, and consider when this structure has coatoms or a smallest element. Modules whose subprojectivity domain is as smallest as possible will be called subprojectively poor (sp-poor) or projectively indigent (p-indigent), and those with co-atomic subprojectivy domain are said to be maximally subprojective. While we do not know if sp-poor modules and maximally subprojective modules exist over every ring, their existence is determined for various families. For example, we determine that artinian serial rings have sp-poor modules and attain the existence of maximally subprojective modules over the integers and for arbitrary V-rings. This work is a natural continuation to recent papers that have embraced the systematic study of the injective, projective and subinjective profiles of rings.
CLUSTER AUTOMORPHISMS AND COMPATIBILITY OF CLUSTER VARIABLES
Authors: ASSEM IBRAHIM , SHRAMCHENKO VASILISA , SCHIFFLER RALF
Published: August 2014

In this paper, we introduce a notion of unistructural cluster algebras, for which the set of cluster variables uniquely determines the clusters, as well as the notion of weak unistructural cluster algebras, for which the set of cluster variables determines the clusters, provided that the type of the cluster algebra is fixed. We prove that, for cluster algebras of the Dynkin type, the two notions of unistructural and weakly unistructural coincide, and that cluster algebras of rank 2 are always unistructural. We then prove that a cluster algebra $\mathcal A$ is weakly unistructural if and only if any automorphism of the ambient field, which restricts to a permutation of cluster variables of $\mathcal A$, is a cluster automorphism. We also investigate the Fomin-Zelevinsky conjecture that two cluster variables are compatible if and only if one does not appear in the denominator of the Laurent expansions of the other.
Dividend Predictability Around the World
Authors: Rangvid Jesper , Schmeling Maik , Schrimpf Andreas
Published: August 2014

We show that dividend-growth predictability by the dividend yield is the rule rather than the exception in global equity markets. Dividend predictability is weaker, however, in large and developed markets where dividends are smoothed more, the typical firm is large, and volatility is lower. Our findings suggest that the apparent lack of dividend predictability in the United States does not uniformly extend to other countries. Rather, cross-country patterns in dividend predictability are driven by differences in firm characteristics and the extent to which dividends are smoothed.
Integrating Anisakis spp. parasites data and host genetic structure in the frame of a holistic approach for stock identification of selected Mediterranean Sea fish species
Authors: MATTIUCCI S. , CIMMARUTA R. , CIPRIANI P. , ABAUNZA P. , BELLISARIO B. , NASCETTI G.
Published: August 2014

The unique environment of the Mediterranean Sea makes fish stock assessment a major challenge. Stock identification of Mediterranean fisheries has been based mostly from data on biology, morphometrics, artificial tags, otolith shape and fish genetics, with less effort on the use of parasites as biomarkers. Here we use some case studies comparing Mediterranean vs Atlantic fish stocks in a multidisciplinary framework. The generalized Procrustes Rotation (PR) was used to assess the association between host genetics and larval Anisakis spp. datasets on demersal (hake) and pelagic (horse mackerel, swordfish) species. When discordant results emerged, they were due to the different features of the data. While fish population genetics can detect changes over an evolutionary timescale, providing indications on the cohesive action of gene flow, parasites are more suitable biomarkers when considering fish stocks over smaller temporal and spatial scales, hence giving information of fish movements over their lifespan. Future studies on the phylogeographic analysis of parasites suitable as biomarkers, and that of their fish host, performed on the same genes, will represent a further tool to be included in multidisciplinary studies on fish stock structure.
Broad geographic analyses reveal varying patterns of genetic diversity and host specificity among echinostome trematodes in New Zealand snails
Authors: KEENEY DEVON B. , PALLADINO JASON , POULIN ROBERT
Published: August 2014

Host specificity is a fundamental component of a parasite's life history. However, accurate assessments of host specificity, and the factors influencing it, can be obscured by parasite cryptic species complexes. We surveyed two congeneric species of intertidal snail intermediate hosts,Zeacumantus subcarinatusandZeacumantus lutulentus, throughout New Zealand to identify the number of genetically distinct echinostome trematodes infecting them and determine the levels of snail host specificity among echinostomes. Two major echinostome clades were identified: a clade consisting of an unidentified species of the subfamily Himasthlinae and a clade consisting of five species of the genusAcanthoparyphium. All fiveAcanthoparyphiumspecies were only found in a single snail species, four inZ. subcarinatusand one inZ. lutulentus. In contrast, the Himasthlinae gen. sp. was found in both hosts, but was more prevalent inZ. lutulentus(97 infections) thanZ. subcarinatus(10 infections). At least two of theAcanthoparyphiumspp. and the Himasthlinae gen. sp. are widespread throughout New Zealand, and can therefore encounter both snail species. Our results suggest that host specificity is determined by host–parasite incompatibilities, not geographic separation, and that it can evolve in different ways in closely related parasite lineages.
Learning how to speak: Pronunciation, pragmatics and practicalities in the classroom and beyond
Authors: Yates Lynda
Published: August 2014

That learners who want to develop good pragmatically-appropriate speaking skills in a language also need to develop good pronunciation is beyond dispute, and yet research continues to report that both areas still have low visibility in the curriculum and are often treated as poor relations in the classroom. Many teachers are still wary of what they see as specialist areas, a perspective that encourages their neglect in the curriculum, in assessment and in teacher training programmes. In this plenary I go back to basics and focus on what learners need to accomplish outside the classroom with the language they are learning. Drawing on studies that have explored the communicative needs of immigrants to Australia from language backgrounds other than English, I will illustrate the importance of both pronunciation and pragmatics in their lives. I will then consider the implications for how we can approach both skills proactively in the classroom in an integrated way that is capable of developing students’ repertoire of speaking skills for effective and appropriate use outside.
Force tracking control for motion synchronization in human-robot collaboration
Authors: Li Yanan , Ge Shuzhi Sam
Published: August 2014

In this paper, motion synchronization is investigated for human–robot collaboration such that the robot is able to “actively” follow its human partner. Force tracking is achieved with the proposed method under the impedance control framework, subject to uncertain human limb dynamics. Adaptive control is developed to deal with point-to-point movement, and learning control and neural networks control are developed to generate periodic and arbitrary continuous trajectories, respectively. Stability and tracking performance of the closed-loop system are discussed through rigorous analysis. The validity of the proposed method is verified through simulation and experiment studies.
Detection ofSalmonella entericain Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) of Chilean Patagonia: evidences of inter-species transmission
Authors: DOUGNAC C. , PARDO C. , MEZA K. , ARREDONDO C. , BLANK O. , ABALOS P. , VIDAL R. , FERNANDEZ A. , FREDES F. , RETAMAL P.
Published: August 2014

Patagonia in southern South America is among the few world regions where direct human impact is still limited but progressively increasing, mainly represented by tourism, farming, fishing and mining activities. The sanitary condition of Patagonian wildlife is unknown, in spite of being critical for the assessment of anthropogenic effects there. The aim of this study was the characterization ofSalmonella entericastrains isolated from wild colonies of Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) located in Magdalena Island and Otway Sound, in Chilean Patagonia. Eight isolates ofSalmonellawere found, belonging to Agona and Enteritidis serotypes, with an infection rate of 0·38%. Resistance to ampicillin, cefotaxime, ceftiofur and tetracycline antimicrobials were detected, and some of these strains showed genotypic similarity withSalmonellastrains isolated from humans and gulls, suggesting inter-species transmission cycles and strengthening the role of penguins as sanitary sentinels in the Patagonian ecosystem.
Tuberculosis and the risk of infection with other intracellular bacteria: a population-based study
Authors: HUAMAN M. A. , FISKE C. T. , JONES T. F. , WARKENTIN J. , SHEPHERD B. E. , INGRAM L. A. , MARURI F. , STERLING T. R.
Published: August 2014

Persons who develop tuberculosis (TB) may have subtle immune defects that could predispose to other intracellular bacterial infections (ICBIs). We obtained data on TB and five ICBIs (Chlamydia trachomatis, Salmonellaspp.,Shigellaspp.,Yersiniaspp.,Listeria monocytogenes) reported to the Tennessee Department of Health, USA, 2000–2011. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) comparing ICBIs in persons who developed TB and ICBIs in the Tennessee population, adjusted for age, sex, race and ethnicity were estimated. IRRs were not significantly elevated for all ICBIs combined [IRR 0·87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0·71–1·06].C. trachomatisrate was lowest in the year post-TB diagnosis (IRR 0·17, 95% CI 0·04–0·70). MoreSalmonellainfections occurred in extrapulmonary TB compared to pulmonary TB patients (IRR 14·3, 95% CI 1·67–122); however, this appeared to be related to HIV co-infection. TB was not associated with an increased risk of other ICBIs. In fact, fewerC. trachomatisinfections occurred after recent TB diagnosis. Reasons for this association, including reduced exposure, protection conferred by anti-TB drugs or macrophage activation byMycobacterium tuberculosisinfection warrant further investigation.
A probability model for evaluating the bias and precision of influenza vaccine effectiveness estimates from case-control studies
Authors: HABER M. , AN Q. , FOPPA I. M. , SHAY D. K. , FERDINANDS J. M. , ORENSTEIN W. A.
Published: August 2014

As influenza vaccination is now widely recommended, randomized clinical trials are no longer ethical in many populations. Therefore, observational studies on patients seeking medical care for acute respiratory illnesses (ARIs) are a popular option for estimating influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE). We developed a probability model for evaluating and comparing bias and precision of estimates of VE against symptomatic influenza from two commonly used case-control study designs: the test-negative design and the traditional case-control design. We show that when vaccination does not affect the probability of developing non-influenza ARI then VE estimates from test-negative design studies are unbiased even if vaccinees and non-vaccinees have different probabilities of seeking medical care against ARI, as long as the ratio of these probabilities is the same for illnesses resulting from influenza and non-influenza infections. Our numerical results suggest that in general, estimates from the test-negative design have smaller bias compared to estimates from the traditional case-control design as long as the probability of non-influenza ARI is similar among vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. We did not find consistent differences between the standard errors of the estimates from the two study designs.
Identifying anthropogenic threats to Cape Vultures Gyps coprotheres using community perceptions in communal farmland, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: PFEIFFER MORGAN B. , VENTER JAN A. , DOWNS COLLEEN T.
Published: August 2014

Declines in Old World vulture populations have been linked to anthropogenic pressures. To assess these threats, the social dimensions of vulture conservation must be explored. Prior research in Africa focused on commercial farmers’ perceptions of vultures and identified that small stock farmers used poison more than large stock farmers to deter livestock predators. However, the vulnerable Cape Vulture Gyps coprotheres breeds throughout communal farmland in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Consequently, community interviews were conducted within the foraging range of the Msikaba Cape Vulture colony, separating regions according to the amount of transformed land. Residents in the least transformed land region perceived the smallest reductions in livestock ownership over the past ten years, while residents of the moderately transformed region perceived the greatest reductions in livestock ownership. Livestock carcasses were reported to be available for vultures at ‘informal vulture restaurants’. Arrangement of livestock carcasses was found to be independent of land use; however type of carcass consumed varied. None of the respondents stated they used poison to eliminate livestock predators. More respondents cited illegal poaching of vultures for traditional medicine as a threat, although the majority stated that vultures benefited the community.
Relative quality-related (dis)utility in a vertically differentiated oligopoly with an environmental externality
Authors: Elhadj Nada Ben , Tarola Ornella
Published: August 2014

In a vertically differentiated setting, we consider a two-stage game between a clean firm and a dirty producer with quality competition at the first stage and price competition at the second stage under the assumption that consumers have relative preferences for quality. The equilibrium configuration changes depending on the consumers' dispersion and the relative preferences: either both producers are active at equilibrium, or the green producer is the only firm active in the market, the brown competitor being out. We analyze how the equilibrium changes when preferences are country specific (developed vs. developing countries). Finally, we show that whatever the market configuration at equilibrium, there can be a pollution damage reduction compared to the standard case without relative preferences. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to introduce in the literature of green consumerism the notion of (possibly country-specific) relative preferences.
Plasma vitamin D is associated with fasting insulin and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance in young adult males, but not females, of the Jerusalem Perinatal Study
Authors: Moore Amy , Hochner Hagit , Sitlani Colleen M , Williams Michelle A , Hoofnagle Andrew N , de Boer Ian H , Kestenbaum Bryan , Siscovick David S , Friedlander Yechiel , Enquobahrie Daniel A
Published: August 2014

Objective

To examine cross-sectional relationships between plasma vitamin D and cardiometabolic risk factors in young adults.

Design

Data were collected from interviews, physical examinations and biomarker measurements. Total plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) was measured using LC–tandem MS. Associations between 25(OH)D and cardiometabolic risk factors were modelled using weighted linear regression with robust estimates of standard errors.

Setting

Individuals born in Jerusalem during 1974–1976.

Subjects

Participants of the Jerusalem Perinatal Study (n 1204) interviewed and examined at age 32 years. Participants were oversampled for low and high birth weight and for maternal pre-pregnancy obesity.

Results

Mean total 25(OH)D concentration among participants was 21·7 (sd 8·9) ng/ml. Among males, 25(OH)D was associated with homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (natural log-transformed, β=−0·011, P=0·004) after adjustment for BMI. However, these associations were not present among females (P for sex interaction=0·005).

Conclusions

We found evidence for inverse associations of 25(OH)D with markers of insulin resistance among males, but not females, in a healthy, young adult Caucasian population. Prospective studies and studies conducted on other populations investigating sex-specific effects of vitamin D on cardiometabolic risk factors are warranted.
The PUR Experiment on the EXPOSE-R facility: biological dosimetry of solar extraterrestrial UV radiation
Authors: Bérces A. , Egyeki M. , Fekete A. , Horneck G. , Kovács G. , Panitz C. , Rontó Gy.
Published: August 2014

The aim of our experiment Phage and Uracil Response was to extend the use of bacteriophage T7 and uracil biological dosimeters for measuring the biologically effective ultraviolet (UV) dose in the harsh extraterrestrial radiation conditions. The biological detectors were exposed in vacuum-tightly cases in the European Space Agency (ESA) astrobiological exposure facility attached to the external platform of Zvezda (EXPOSE-R). EXPOSE-R took off to the International Space Station (ISS) in November 2008 and was installed on the External platform of the Russian module Zvezda of the ISS in March 2009. Our goal was to determine the dose–effect relation for the formation of photoproducts (i.e. damage to phage DNA and uracil, respectively). The extraterrestrial solar UV radiation ranges over the whole spectrum from vacuum-UV (λ<200 nm) to UVA (315 nm<λ<400 nm), which causes photolesions (photoproducts) in the nucleic acids/their components either by photoionization or excitation. However, these wavelengths cause not only photolesions but in a wavelength-dependent efficiency the reversion of some photolesions, too. Our biological detectors measured in situ conditions the resultant of both reactions induced by the extraterrestrial UV radiation. From this aspect the role of the photoreversion in the extension of the biological UV dosimetry are discussed.
Understanding individual differences in response to Self-Practice and Self-Reflection (SP/SR) during CBT training
Authors: Chaddock Anna , Thwaites Richard , Bennett-Levy James , Freeston Mark H.
Published: August 2014

Self-Practice/Self-Reflection (SP/SR) has been developed as a self-experiential training strategy to enhance CBT therapists’ skills. SP/SR gives therapists an experience of CBT through practising CBT techniques on themselves, and reflecting on the experience and its implications for clinical practice. Many practitioners report significant professional and personal gains from SP/SR; however, there is considerable individual variation. This study examined individual experiences of SP/SR in order to develop a better understanding of idiosyncratic variations in participants’ approaches to SP/SR, and to inform the design and implementation of future SP/SR programmes. A single-case design was employed to examine the experiences of four trainee cognitive-behaviour therapists who were undertaking SP/SR as part of their professional training in CBT. Quantitative data from self-ratings of skill, and qualitative data from participants’ reflections and attributions following completion of SP/SR were examined. Both the participants, and two additional reviewers were consulted in the interpretation of the results. The impact of SP/SR appeared specific to each participant, reflecting different ways that participants engaged with SP/SR materials. The study suggests that for optimal development, engagement of the personal self and therapist self may be required.
Resonant characteristics of rectangular Microstrip antenna printed on electric–magnetic uniaxial anisotropic substrates
Authors: Hassad Mourad , Bedra Sami , Bedra Randa , Benkouda Siham , Boughrara Akrame Soufiane , Fortaki Tarek
Published: August 2014

In this paper, the resonant characteristics of the rectangular microstrip patch antenna on uniaxially anisotropic substrates are determined via spectral domain analysis. The anisotropic substrates are characterized by both permittivity and permeability tensors. Green's functions of the structure in Fourier transform domain are determined using the Galerkin's technique. The sinusoidal functions are selected as the basis function, which show fast numerical convergence. Numerical results concerning the effects of electric anisotropy and antenna parameters on the resonant characteristics of rectangular microstrip antenna are presented and discussed. Results are compared with previously published data and are found to be in good agreement.
The law regulating cross-border relief operations
Authors: Gillard Emanuela-Chiara
Published: August 2014

In view of the challenges frequently encountered in providing assistance to civilians in opposition-held territories, consideration is sometimes given to cross-border relief operations. Such operations raise numerous legal questions, including whose consent is required; what constitutes arbitrary withholding of consent; what the consequences of withholding of consent are, both for those wishing to provide assistance and for the parties withholding consent; and what alternatives exist for providing assistance in such circumstances.
Balneohydrotherapy in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency
Authors: Forestier Romain J. , Briancon Gisèle , Francon Alain , Erol Fatma B. , Mollard Jean M.
Published: August 2014

Background: Physical therapy has not been evaluated much for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency before. The question is whether balneohydrotherapy and usual care combined is superior to usual care alone. Patients and methods: In a randomized trial comparing spa therapy versus waiting list patients were treated on an out-patient basis in a private spa center. Patients had to be between 18 and 80 years old, with chronic venous insufficiency (stage 3 or 4 according to the CEAP classification). The balneohydrotherapy group received 18 days of treatment in Aix-Les-Bains spa center continuing their usual care. The control group continued their usual care as well during the study. The balneohydrotherapy program consisted of Kneipp therapy (10 minutes), walking 10 minutes in a special mineral water pool with underwater jets at 23 °C, massage and bathing in a mineral water tub at 34 °C. The main outcome criterion was the number of patients with 20 % self assessed improvement on the Chronic Venous Insufficiency Questionnaire at three months after therapy. Results: 192 patients were assessed for eligibility, 99 were randomized 5 retired drew back their consent and were not included in the intention to treat analysis. None were lost to follow up. After three months 32 (66 %) patients improved in the balneohydrotherapy group and 13 (28 %) in the control group. The difference between groups was significant (odd ratio 5.08 [1.94 - 13.55], relative risk reduction 2.33 [1.42 - 3.84]).There were no serious side effects. Conclusions: Balneohydrotherapy seems to improve quality of life of patients with chronic venous insufficiency.
Validation of the disease-specific quality of life Wuerzburg Wound Score in patients with chronic leg ulcer
Authors: Engelhardt Michael , Spech Eva , Diener Hermann , Faller Hermann , Augustin Matthias , Debus Eike S.
Published: August 2014

Background: Aim of the study was to validate a newly developed disease-specific quality of life questionnaire (Wuerzburg Wound Score, WWS) in patients with chronic arterial or venous leg ulcers. Patients and methods: In this prospective study 115 patients with vascular disease associated leg ulcer (54 arterial ulcer, 61 venous ulcer) were studied (mean age 66 ± 11 years, 51 % male). All patients completed the WWS at baseline, and after four and 12 weeks. To assess construct validity additionally all patients completed the generic QoL-questionnaires Short Form-36 (SF-36) and Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). Construct validity and responsiveness of the WWS were tested. Results: WWS showed acceptable construct validity versus SF-36 (r = 0.5 - 0.78; P < 0.001) and NHP (r = 0.36 - 0.68; P < 0.001). Responsiveness of the WWS was superior to SF-36 (P < 0.05) and NHP (P = 0.01). Generic as well as disease-specific QoL were more impaired in patients with arterial ulcer. Conclusions: The WWS is a valid measure of disease-specific QoL in patients with leg ulcers and it is more sensitive than the generic instruments in detecting changes of wound healing over time. Further assessment of the psychometric properties of the WWS with larger patient samples is required before the test can be recommended for use in clinical practice.
Wichtige Infektionen im Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Bereich
Authors: Weber Claudia Sandra , Kleinjung Tobias
Published: August 2014

Infektionserkrankungen im Hals-Nasen-Ohrenbereich gehören sicher zu den häufigeren Gründen, weshalb Patienten ihren Hausarzt konsultieren. Ziel dieses Mini-Reviews soll es deshalb sein, einen Abriss über die wichtigsten und häufigsten Infektionserkrankungen aus dem Hals-Nasen-Ohrenbereich, sowie deren Diagnostik und Therapie mit Relevanz für die Hausarztpraxis zu geben. Viele dieser Infektionen können durchaus durch den Hausarzt behandelt werden und brauchen nicht in jedem Fall eine fachärztliche Beurteilung durch den Hals-Nasen-Ohrenarzt. Ergänzende Hinweise für das rechtzeitige Erkennen von Komplikationen und komplizierten Verläufen, die eine Überweisung zum HNO-Arzt erfordern, werden gegeben.
Arbeitsstress in der zweiten Lebenshälfte
Authors: Schmid Andreas
Published: August 2014

Beruflicher Stress ist ein Risikofaktor für psychische und körperliche Krankheiten. Anfang 50, beim Eintritt in die zweite Lebenshälfte, pocht unser Körper darauf, dass wir uns dem zunehmenden Alter stellen. Arbeitskräfte in der zweiten Lebenshälfte sind in einer Gesellschaft, die sich mit Alter schwer tut, besonderen Formen von Stress ausgesetzt. Basierend auf aktuellen Konzepten der Stressforschung werden Lösungsansätze entwickelt, für die Besonderheiten des Umgangs mit beruflichem Stress in der zweiten Lebenshälfte.