bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptual and numerical modeling approach of the Guarani Aquifer System
Authors: Rodríguez L. , Vives L. , Gomez A.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. In large aquifers, relevant for their considerable size, regional groundwater modeling remains challenging given geologic complexity and data scarcity in space and time. Yet, it may be conjectured that regional scale groundwater flow models can help in understanding the flow system functioning and the relative magnitude of water budget components, which are important for aquifer management. The Guaraní Aquifer System is the largest transboundary aquifer in South America. It contains an enormous volume of water; however, it is not well known, being difficult to assess the impact of exploitation currently used to supply over 25 million inhabitants. This is a sensitive issue because the aquifer is shared by four countries. Moreover, an integrated groundwater model, and therefore a global water balance, were not available. In this work, a transient regional scale model for the entire aquifer based upon five simplified, equally plausible conceptual models represented by different hydraulic conductivity parametrizations is used to analyze the flow system and water balance components. Combining an increasing number of hydraulic conductivity zones and an appropriate set of boundary conditions, the hypothesis of a continuous sedimentary unit yielded errors within the calibration target in a regional sense. The magnitude of the water budget terms resulted very similar for all parametrizations. Recharge and stream/aquifer fluxes were the dominant components representing, on average, 84.2% of total inflows and 61.4% of total outflows, respectively. However, leakage was small compared to stream discharges of main rivers. For instance, the simulated average leakage for the Uruguay River was 8 m3 s−1 while the observed absolute minimum discharge was 382 m3 s−1. Streams located in heavily pumped regions switched from a gaining condition in early years to a losing condition over time. Water is discharged through the aquifer boundaries, except at the eastern boundary. On average, pumping represented 16.2% of inflows while aquifer storage experienced a small overall increment. The model water balance indicates that the current rate of groundwater withdrawals does not exceed the rate of recharge in a regional sense.
Similarity of climate control on base flow and perennial stream density in the Budyko framework
Authors: Wang D. , Wu L.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Connection between perennial stream and base flow at the mean annual scale exists since one of the hydrologic functions of perennial stream is to deliver runoff even in low flow seasons. The partitioning of precipitation into runoff and evaporation at the mean annual scale, on the first order, is captured by the ratio of potential evaporation to precipitation (EP/P called climate aridity index) based on Budyko hypothesis. Perennial stream density (DP), which is obtained from the high resolution National Hydrography Dataset, for 185 watersheds declines monotonically with climate aridity index, and an inversely proportional function is proposed to model the relationship between DP and EP/P. The monotonic trend of perennial stream density reconciles with the Abrahams curve since perennial stream density is only a small portion of the total drainage density. The correlation coefficient between the ratio of base flow to precipitation (Qb/P), which follows a complementary Budyko type curve and perennial stream density is found to be 0.74. The similarity between Qb/P and DP reveals the co-evolution between water balance and perennial stream network.
Impacts of soil-aquifer heat and water fluxes on simulated global climate
Authors: Krakauer N. Y. , Puma M. J. , Cook B. I.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Climate models have traditionally only represented heat and water fluxes within relatively shallow soil layers, but there is increasing interest in the possible role of heat and water exchanges with the deeper subsurface. Here, we integrate an idealized 50 m deep aquifer into the land surface module of the GISS ModelE general circulation model to test the influence of aquifer-soil moisture and heat exchanges on climate variables. We evaluate the impact on the modeled climate of aquifer-soil heat and water fluxes separately, as well as in combination. The addition of the aquifer to ModelE has limited impact on annual-mean climate, with little change in global mean land temperature, precipitation, or evaporation. The seasonal amplitude of deep soil temperature is strongly damped by the soil-aquifer heat flux. This not only improves the model representation of permafrost area but propagates to the surface, resulting in an increase in the seasonal amplitude of surface air temperature of >1 K in the Arctic. The soil-aquifer water and heat fluxes both slightly decrease interannual variability in soil moisture and land-surface temperature, and decrease the soil moisture memory of the land surface on annual timescales. The results of this experiment suggest that deepening the modeled land surface, compared to modeling only a shallower soil column with a no-flux bottom boundary condition, has limited impact on mean climate but does affect seasonality and interannual persistence.
An assessment of global net irrigation water requirements from various water supply sources to sustain irrigation: rivers and reservoirs (1960–2000 and 2050)
Authors: Yoshikawa S. , Cho J. , Yamada H. G. , Hanasaki N. , Khajuria A. , Kanae S.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Water supply sources for irrigation, such as rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater, are critically important for agricultural productivity. The current rapid increase in irrigation water use threatens sustainable food production. In this study, we estimated the time-varying dependency of the supply of irrigation water from rivers, large reservoirs with a greater than 1.0 km3 storage capacity, medium-size reservoirs with storage capacities ranging from 1.0 km3 to 3.0 Mm3, and non-local non-renewable blue water (NNBW), particularly taking into account variations in irrigation area during the period 1960–2000. We also estimated the future irrigation water requirements from water supply sources in addition to these four sources, using an irrigation area scenario. The net irrigation water requirements from various supply sources were assessed using the global H08 water resources model. The H08 model simulates water requirements on a daily basis at a resolution of 1.0° × 1.0°. We obtained net irrigation water from rivers and medium-size reservoirs, and determined that the NNBW increased continuously from 1960 to 1985, but the net irrigation water from large reservoirs increased only marginally. After 1985, the net irrigation water from rivers approached a critical limit with the continued expansion of the irrigation area. The irrigation water requirements from medium-size reservoirs and NNBW increased significantly following the expansion of the irrigation area and the increased storage capacity of medium-size reservoirs. Under the irrigation area scenario without climate change, global net irrigation water requirements from additional water supply sources will account for 26% of the total requirements in the year 2050. We found that expansion of irrigation areas due to population growth will generate an enormous demand for irrigation water from additional resources.
Concise Review: Preleukemic Stem Cells: Molecular Biology and Clinical Implications of the Precursors to Leukemia Stem Cells
Authors: Pandolfi Ashley , Barreyro Laura , Steidl Ulrich
Published: January 2013

Recent experimental evidence has shown that acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) arise from transformed immature hematopoietic cells following the accumulation of multiple stepwise genetic and epigenetic changes in hematopoietic stem cells and committed progenitors. The series of transforming events initially gives rise to preleukemic stem cells (pre-LSC), preceding the formation of fully transformed leukemia stem cells (LSC). Despite the established use of poly-chemotherapy, relapse continues to be the most common cause of death in AML and MDS. The therapeutic elimination of all LSC, as well as pre-LSC, which provide a silent reservoir for the re-formation of LSC, will be essential for achieving lasting cures. Conventional sequencing and next-generation genome sequencing have allowed us to describe many of the recurrent mutations in the bulk cell populations in AML and MDS, and recent work has also focused on identifying the initial molecular changes contributing to leukemogenesis. Here we review recent and ongoing advances in understanding the roles of pre-LSC, and the aberrations that lead to pre-LSC formation and subsequent LSC transformation.
Autologous Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells for the Treatment of Allograft Rejection After Renal Transplantation: Results of a Phase I Study
Authors: Reinders Marlies E.J. , de Fijter Johan W. , Roelofs Helene , Bajema Ingeborg M. , de Vries Dorottya K. , Schaapherder Alexander F. , Claas Frans H.J. , van Miert Paula P.M.C. , Roelen Dave L. , van Kooten Cees , Fibbe Willem E. , Rabelink Ton J.
Published: January 2013

Despite excellent short-term results, long-term survival of transplanted kidneys has not improved accordingly. Although alloimmune responses and calcineurin inhibitor-related nephrotoxicity have been identified as main drivers of fibrosis, no effective treatment options have emerged. In this perspective, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are an interesting candidate because of their immunosuppressive and regenerative properties. Of importance, no other clinical studies have investigated their effects in allograft rejection and fibrosis. We performed a safety and feasibility study in kidney allograft recipients to whom two intravenous infusions (1 million cells per kilogram) of autologous bone marrow (BM) MSCs were given, when a protocol renal biopsy at 4 weeks or 6 months showed signs of rejection and/or an increase in interstitial fibrosis/tubular atrophy (IF/TA). Six patients received MSC infusions. Clinical and immune monitoring was performed up to 24 weeks after MSC infusions. MSCs fulfilled the release criteria, infusions were well-tolerated, and no treatment-related serious adverse events were reported. In two recipients with allograft rejection, we had a clinical indication to perform surveillance biopsies and are able to report on the potential effects of MSCs in rejection. Although maintenance immunosuppression remained unaltered, there was a resolution of tubulitis without IF/TA in both patients. Additionally, three patients developed an opportunistic viral infection, and five of the six patients displayed a donor-specific downregulation of the peripheral blood mononuclear cell proliferation assay, not reported in patients without MSC treatment. Autologous BM MSC treatment in transplant recipients with subclinical rejection and IF/TA is clinically feasible and safe, and the findings are suggestive of systemic immunosuppression.
Concise Review: Immunologic Lessons From Solid Organ Transplantation for Stem Cell-Based Therapies
Authors: Loewendorf Andrea , Csete Marie
Published: January 2013

Clinical organ transplantation became possible only after powerful immunosuppressive drugs became available to suppress the alloimmune response. After decades of solid organ transplantation, organ rejection is still a major challenge. However, significant insight into allorecognition has emerged from this vast experience and should be used to inform future stem cell-based therapies. For this reason, we review the current understanding of selected topics in transplant immunology that have not been prominent in the stem cell literature, including immune responses to ischemia/reperfusion injuries, natural killer cells, the adaptive immune response, some unresolved issues in T-cell allorecognition, costimulatory molecules, and the anticipated role of regulatory T cells in graft tolerance.
Size Distribution and Scaling Behavior of InAlAs/AlGaAs Quantum Dots Grown on GaAs by Molecular Beam Epitaxy
Authors: Lu Xiangmeng , Koyama Masataka , Izumi Yoshiharu , Nakata Yoshiaki , Adachi Satoru , Muto Shunichi
Published: January 2013

We studied the size distribution and scaling behavior of self-assembled InAlAs/AlGaAs quantum dots (QDs) grown on GaAs in the Stranski–Krastanow (SK) mode by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) at 480 and 510 °C as a function of InAlAs coverage. A scaling function of the volume was found for the first time in ternary alloy QDs. The function was similar to that of InAs/GaAs QDs, which agreed with the scaling function for a two-dimensional submonolayer homoepitaxy simulation with a critical island size ofi= 1. However, a characteristic ofi= 0 was also found as a tail in a large volume.
Iterative learning control for a class of non‐affine‐in‐input processes in Hilbert space
Authors: Guo Qinyi , Huang Deqing , Luo Chunlin , Zhang Weinian
Published: January 2013

In this paper, iterative learning control (ILC) of a class of non‐affine‐in‐input processes is considered in Hilbert space, where the plant operators are quite general in the sense that they could be static or dynamic, differentiable or non‐differentiable, continuous‐time or discrete‐time, and so forth. The control problem is first transformed to a problem of solving global implicit function to ensure the uniqueness of desired control input. Then, two contraction mapping‐based ILC schemes are proposed in terms of the continuous differentiability of process model, where the learning convergence condition is derived through rigorous analysis. The proposed ILC schemes make full use of the process repetition, deal with system uncertainties easily, and are effective to infinite‐dimensional or distributed parameter systems. In the end, the learning controller is applied to the boundary output control of a class of anaerobic digestion process for wastewater treatment. The control efficacy is verified by simulation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous determination of 9‐dehydro‐17‐hydro‐andrographolide and sodium 9‐dehydro‐17‐hydro‐andrographolide‐19‐yl sulfate in rat plasma by UHPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS after administration of xiyanping injection: application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Chong Lan , Chen Weikang , Luo Yuehua , Jiang ZiHua
Published: January 2013

9‐Dehydro‐17‐hydro‐andrographolide (DHA) and sodium 9‐dehydro‐17‐hydro‐andrographolide‐19‐yl sulfate (DHAS) are active ingredients of xiyanping injection in clinical use. A simple, rapid and sensitive UHPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS method was developed for the determination of DHA and DHAS in rat plasma, and the pharmacokinetics of DHA and DHAS after intravenous administration of xiyanping injection was investigated. The plasma samples were treated with methanol to precipitate out protein, and the separation of DHA and DHAS was achieved on a Waters BEH C18 column with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile and 10 mmol/L ammonium acetate solution at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. DHA, DHAS and the internal standard (internal standard, IS) diethylstilbestrol were detected at negative ion mode. The precursor‐product ion pairs used in multiple reaction monitoring mode were: m/z 349.1 → 286.9 (DHA), m/z 428.9 → 96.0 (DHAS) and m/z 267.1 → 236.9 (IS). Calibration curves offered satisfactory linearity within the test range, and all correlation coefficients were >0.995. The lower limit of detection of DHA and DHAS in plasma samples were determined to be 0.1 ng/mL. The lower limit of quantitation was 0.5 ng/mL for DHA and DHAS. All the recoveries of the quality control samples were in the range of 86.0–102.4%. The ratios of matrix effect were between 89.2 and 105.1%. The method was fully validated and successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of DHA and DHAS in rats. The study showed that both DHA and DHAS were distributed and eliminated rapidly in rats. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Qigong improves quality of life in women undergoing radiotherapy for breast cancer
Authors: Chen Zhen , Meng Zhiqiang , Milbury Kathrin , Bei Wenying , Zhang Ying , Thornton Bob , Liao Zhongxing , Wei Qi , Chen Jiayi , Guo Xiaoma , Liu Luming , McQuade Jennifer , Kirschbaum Clemens , Cohen Lorenzo
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND:

Radiotherapy may lead to side effects that undermine patients' quality of life (QOL). Although mind‐body practices like qigong appear to improve QOL in cancer survivors, little is known about their benefits for patients who are receiving radiotherapy. Thus, in the current randomized controlled trial, the authors examined the efficacy of a qigong intervention on QOL in women with breast cancer during and after treatment.

METHODS:

Ninety‐six women with breast cancer were recruited from a cancer center in Shanghai, China, and were randomized to a qigong group (N = 49) or a waitlist control group (N = 47). Women in the qigong group attended 5 weekly classes over 5 or 6 weeks of radiotherapy. QOL outcomes (ie, depressive symptoms, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and overall QOL) and cortisol slopes were assessed at baseline, during treatment, at the end of treatment, 1 month later, and 3 months later.

RESULTS:

The mean age of the women was 46 years (range, 25‐64 years). Seven percent of women had stage 0 disease, 25% had stage I disease, 40% had stage II disease, and 28% had stage III disease. Fifty‐four percent of women underwent mastectomy. Multilevel analyses revealed that women in the qigong group reported less depressive symptoms over time than women in the control group (P = .05). Women who had elevated depressive symptoms at the start of radiotherapy reported less fatigue (P < .01) and better overall QOL (P < .05) in the qigong group compared with the control group, and these findings were clinically significant. No significant differences were observed for sleep disturbance or cortisol slopes.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current results indicated that qigong may have therapeutic effects in the management of QOL among women who are receiving radiotherapy for breast cancer. Benefits were particularly evident for patients who had preintervention elevated levels of depressive symptoms. Cancer 2013. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
An eHealth system supporting palliative care for patients with non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Gustafson David H. , DuBenske Lori L. , Namkoong Kang , Hawkins Robert , Chih Ming‐Yuan , Atwood Amy K. , Johnson Roberta , Bhattacharya Abhik , Carmack Cindy L. , Traynor Anne M. , Campbell Toby C. , Buss Mary K. , Govindan Ramaswamy , Schiller Joan H. , Cleary James F.
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND:

In this study, the authors examined the effectiveness of an online support system (Comprehensive Health Enhancement Support System [CHESS]) versus the Internet in relieving physical symptom distress in patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS:

In total, 285 informal caregiver‐patient dyads were assigned randomly to receive, for up to 25 months, standard care plus training on and access to either use of the Internet and a list of Internet sites about lung cancer (the Internet arm) or CHESS (the CHESS arm). Caregivers agreed to use CHESS or the Internet and to complete bimonthly surveys; for patients, these tasks were optional. The primary endpoint—patient symptom distress—was measured by caregiver reports using a modified Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale.

RESULTS:

Caregivers in the CHESS arm consistently reported lower patient physical symptom distress than caregivers in the Internet arm. Significant differences were observed at 4 months (P = .031; Cohen d = .42) and at 6 months (P = .004; d = .61). Similar but marginally significant effects were observed at 2 months (P = .051; d = .39) and at 8 months (P = .061; d = .43). Exploratory analyses indicated that survival curves did not differ significantly between the arms (log‐rank P = .172), although a survival difference in an exploratory subgroup analysis suggested an avenue for further study.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current results indicated that an online support system may reduce patient symptom distress. The effect on survival bears further investigation. Cancer 2013. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Fatherhood status and risk of prostate cancer: Nationwide, population‐based case–control study
Authors: Wirén Sara M. , Drevin Linda I. , Carlsson Sigrid V. , Akre Olof , Holmberg Erik C. , Robinson David E. , Garmo Hans G. , Stattin Pär E.
Published: January 2013

Previous studies have shown a decreased risk of prostate cancer for childless men; however, the cause of the association remains to be elucidated. The aim of our study was to assess the risk of prostate cancer by fatherhood status, also considering potential confounding factors. In a case–control study in Prostate Cancer data Base Sweden 2.0, a nationwide, population‐based cohort, data on number of children, marital status, education, comorbidity and tumor characteristics obtained through nationwide healthcare registers and demographic databases for 117,328 prostate cancer cases and 562,644 controls, matched on birth year and county of residence, were analyzed. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for prostate cancer overall and by risk category, adjusting for marital status and education. Childless men had a decreased risk of prostate cancer compared to fathers, OR = 0.83 (95% CI = 0.82–0.84), and risk was lower for low‐risk prostate cancer, OR = 0.74 (95% CI = 0.72–0.77), than for metastatic prostate cancer, OR = 0.93 (95% CI = 0.90–0.97). Adjustment for marital status and education attenuated the association in the low‐risk category, adjusted OR = 0.87 (95% CI = 0.84–0.91), whereas OR for metastatic cancer remained virtually unchanged, adjusted OR = 0.92 (95% CI = 0.88–0.96). Our data indicate that the association between fatherhood status and prostate cancer to a large part is due to socioeconomic factors influencing healthcare‐seeking behavior including testing of prostate‐specific antigen levels.
Alternative splicing of BRAF transcripts and characterization of C‐terminally truncated B‐Raf isoforms in colorectal cancer
Authors: Hirschi Benjamin , Kolligs Frank T.
Published: January 2013

The BRAF proto‐oncogene is mutated in a subset of human tumors, including colorectal cancer. A splicing variant lacking exons 14 and 15 (BRAF del E14/15) has been described recently. However, the frequency of the variant, the kinase activity of the protein isoform, its biological function, and which allele it is derived from remains unknown. BRAF mRNA from colorectal cancer cell lines and colonic epithelium was reversely transcribed, subcloned, and screened for alternative splicing. New transcript variants and allelic origin of alternatively spliced transcripts were analyzed by DNA sequencing. Kinase activity of the B‐Raf isoforms was determined by Western blotting after transfections with expression constructs of the different BRAF variants. Four additional BRAF transcript variants resulting in C‐terminal truncation of the gene product were found. Alternative splicing was found at frequencies from 4.7 to 16.7% in normal and neoplastic colorectal cells. Alternative transcripts were shown to be derived from both wild‐type and V600E alleles. All nonconsensus B‐Raf protein variants were found to be kinase‐dead and failed to coactivate full‐length B‐Raf. In conclusion, we present a highly sensitive method for the detection of aberrantly spliced transcripts. Alternative splicing of exons 14, 15, 15b, 16b and 16c occurs in a considerable fraction of BRAF mRNA in normal colon and colorectal cancer cells and is independent of the V600E mutational status of the parental allele. Splicing of nonfunctional transcripts affects overall cellular B‐Raf activity and might represent a mechanism to decrease sensitivity to growth signals.
Exogenous high‐mobility group box 1 protein prevents postinfarction adverse myocardial remodeling through TGF‐β/Smad signaling pathway
Authors: He Yiyu , Zhou Xiaoya , Zheng Xiaoxin , Jiang Xuejun
Published: January 2013

High‐mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) has been reported to attenuate ventricular remodeling, but its mechanism remains mostly unresolved. Transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) is a crucial mediator in the pathogenesis of post‐infarction remodeling. Our study focused on the effects of HMGB1 on ventricular remodeling, and explored whether or not these effects were depended upon the TGF‐β signaling pathway. Rats underwent coronary artery ligation. An intramyocardium injection of phosphate buffered saline (PBS) with or without HMGB1 was administered 3 weeks after myocardial infarction (MI). At 4 weeks after the treatment, HMGB1 significantly increased the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (P < 0.05), decreased the left ventricular end diastolic dimension (LVEDD; P < 0.05), left ventricular end systolic dimension (LVESD) (P < 0.05) and the infarct size (P < 0.05) compared with control group. The expressions of collagen I, collagen III, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP2) were also decreased, while the matrix metalloproteinases 2 (MMP2) and MMP9 expressions were upregulated by HMGB1 injection (P < 0.05) compared with control group. No effect on TIMP3 was observed. Furthermore, TGF‐β1 and phosphor‐Smad2 (p‐Smad2) were significantly suppressed and Smad7 was increased in HMGB1‐treated group (P < 0.05) compared with control group, no effects on p‐Smad3 and p‐p38 were observed. HMGB1 also upregulated Smad 7 expression and decreased the level of collagen I on cardiac fibroblasts (P < 0.05). Silencing of Smad7 gene by small interfering RNA abolished the fibrogenic effects of HMGB1 on cardiac fibroblasts (P < 0.05). These finding suggested that HMGB1 injection modulated ventricular remodeling may function through the possible inhibition of TGF‐β/Smad signaling pathway. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 1634–1641, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Weak forms of the Regularity Principle in the presence of \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\bf {\mathsf {I}{\mathrm{E}}_1}$\end{document}
Authors: Cornaros Charalampos
Published: January 2013

We study the strength of weak forms of the Regularity Principle in the presence of \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathsf {I}{\mathrm{E}}_1$\end{document} (induction on bounded existential formulas) relative to other subsystems of \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathsf {PA}$\end{document}. In particular, the Bounded Weak Regularity Principle is formulated, and it is shown that when applied to E1 formulas, this principle is equivalent over \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathsf {I}{\mathrm{E}}_1^-$\end{document} to \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathsf {I}\Delta _0+\mathrm{exp}$\end{document}.
Recommender Systems
Authors: Jannach Dietmar , Zanker Markus , Felfernig Alexander , Friedrich Gerhard
Published: January 2013

In this age of information overload, people use a variety of strategies to make choices about what to buy, how to spend their leisure time, and even whom to date. Recommender systems automate some of these strategies with the goal of providing affordable, personal, and high-quality recommendations. This book offers an overview of approaches to developing state-of-the-art recommender systems. The authors present current algorithmic approaches for generating personalized buying proposals, such as collaborative and content-based filtering, as well as more interactive and knowledge-based approaches. They also discuss how to measure the effectiveness of recommender systems and illustrate the methods with practical case studies. The final chapters cover emerging topics such as recommender systems in the social web and consumer buying behavior theory. Suitable for computer science researchers and students interested in getting an overview of the field, this book will also be useful for professionals looking for the right technology to build real-world recommender systems.
Introduction to the Theory of Thermal Neutron Scattering
Authors: Squires G. L.
Published: January 2013

Since the advent of the nuclear reactor, thermal neutron scattering has proved a valuable tool for studying many properties of solids and liquids, and research workers are active in the field at reactor centres and universities throughout the world. This classic text provides the basic quantum theory of thermal neutron scattering and applies the concepts to scattering by crystals, liquids and magnetic systems. Other topics discussed are the relation of the scattering to correlation functions in the scattering system, the dynamical theory of scattering and polarisation analysis. No previous knowledge of the theory of thermal neutron scattering is assumed, but basic knowledge of quantum mechanics and solid state physics is required. The book is intended for experimenters rather than theoreticians, and the discussion is kept as informal as possible. A number of examples, with worked solutions, are included as an aid to the understanding of the text.
Haplological dissimilation at distinct stages of exponence
Authors: Nevins Andrew
Published: January 2013

This chapter classifies the typology of morphological dissimilation effects into four distinct stages of the mapping from syntax to exponence: linearization, prosodic readjustment, M-Word formation, and allomorph selection, in that order. Each module has its own properties, structure-sensitivities, and suite of potential repair operations; for example, the earliest stage is insensitive to adjacency and phonological form, while the latest stage is sensitive to strict adjacency and aspects of phonological form. A modular architecture for exponence allows one to distinguish the properties of each type of dissimilation, thereby enabling predictive correlations between structural sensitivity and possible repair.
Iconicity
Authors: Laura J. Downing , Barbara Stiebels
Published: January 2013

One of the defining principles of human language is that the relation between form and meaning is arbitrary. Yet, it is also clear that language has iconic aspects, and for this reason the role of iconicity in explaining language structure has been a persistent issue in linguistic theory. While iconicity has played a more central role in functional linguistics, this chapter shows that iconicity often serves as an implicit guiding principle in formal linguistic analyses and theories, as well. This chapter critically reviews the various aspects of iconicity (i.e. complexity, isomorphism, and cohesion) in accounting for topics ranging from the role of sound symbolism in the lexicon through aspects of morphological and syntactic structure such as paradigm uniformity, reduplication, morphological linearization, differential subject/object marking, and noun incorporation.
Non-concatenative morphology as epiphenomenon
Authors: Bye Patrik , Svenonius Peter
Published: January 2013

Non-concatenative morphological phenomena appear on the face of it to require a powerful morphological component, capable of more than straightforward addition of affixes consisting of segmental material. The chapter proposes that the full range of non-concatenative phenomena may be completely accounted for in piece-based terms using analytical tools that are independently necessary. These phenomena include mutation, infixation, ablaut or melodic overwrite, subtraction, metathesis, reduplication, and templates. First, lexical entries for affixes may be underspecified, lacking information about segmental or featural content, which is then filled in by the phonology. Second, the way in which the content of affixes associates to the word may be prespecified in crucial respects, and phonology may be faithful to prespecified structure. In either case, non-concatenative effects are exclusively down to the phonology, not the morphology, which is purely additive.
Conclusion: Cultural Integration of Immigrants in Europe
Authors: Aleksynska Mariya , Algan Yann
Published: January 2013

This concluding chapter summarizes the very rich analysis and the main findings of the country-specific chapters. Despite the very different datasets and sampling techniques and sometimes different phrasing of the questions and measures, most of the country-specific researchers do find similar tendencies of immigrants’ assimilation. In many cases the immigrants’ values converge to the local context within a generation. The chapter highlights these similarities, as well as the most interesting and striking differences found across countries.
Who's counting? Spatial politics, ecocolonisation and the politics of calculation in Boundary Bay
Authors: Norman Emma S
Published: January 2013

Answering the simple question, ‘who's counting’, reveals much about the spatial and cultural politics of ecosystem management. In this paper, I unite the concept of ‘ecocolonisation’ with the body of work on the politics of calculation. I argue that political technologies – including calculative techniques such as the enumeration of contamination levels – are a form of ecocolonisation that have considerable political effects on Indigenous communities. I explore the ways that historically connected Indigenous communities are divergently impacted by shellfish regulations and water pollution through an investigation of Boundary Bay, which straddles the Canada–US border on the Pacific coast. In closing, I suggest the on‐going need to decolonise our understanding of calculative techniques for ecosystem management, and offer a more nuanced interpretation of space that accounts for both traditional boundaries and connected ecosystems.
Functions, diversity, and evolution of traumatic mating
Authors: Lange Rolanda , Reinhardt Klaus , Michiels Nico K. , Anthes Nils
Published: January 2013

Copulation can involve the wounding of the mating partner by specialised devices. This type of mating, which we term traumatic mating, has been regarded as exceptional. Its prevalence, however, has not been compared across taxa, nor have its functions and putative evolutionary pathways. A categorisation has been lacking to date. We here show that traumatic mating is a widespread and diverse phenomenon that likely evolved via several pathways. Its putative functions include: (i) anchorage during mating; (ii) stimulation of short‐term female reproductive investment; (iii) male paternity advantages; and (iv) enhanced fertilisation efficiency in transitions to internal fertilisation. Both natural and sexual selection have likely contributed to the parallel evolution of traumatic intromittent organs in phylogenetically distant taxa. These organs are sometimes remarkably similar in shape and often, but not always, inject sperm. The target sites of trauma infliction and the nature of secretions delivered alongside sperm are thus far poorly studied, but data on both are needed to elucidate the function of traumatic mating. The few existing studies that explicitly quantify fitness impacts of traumatic mating indicate that this strategy may often be costly to the party being wounded. However, a comprehensive approach to assess overall investments and returns for both sexes is a major target for future work. Finally, for the first time, we corroborate quantitatively the hypothesis that traumatic mating evolved relatively more often among hermaphroditic than among gonochoric taxa.
9‐cis retinoic acid is the ALDH1A1 product that stimulates melanogenesis
Authors: Paterson Elyse K , Ho Hsiang , Kapadia Rubina , Ganesan Anand K
Published: January 2013

Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A1 (ALDH1A1), an enzyme that catalyses the conversion of lipid aldehydes to lipid carboxylic acids, plays pleiotropic roles in UV‐radiation resistance, melanogenesis and stem cell maintenance. In this study, a combination of RNAi and pharmacologic approaches were used to determine which ALDH1A1 substrates and products regulate melanogenesis. Initial studies revealed that neither the UV‐induced lipid aldehyde 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal nor the ALDH1A1 product all‐trans retinoic acid appreciably induced melanogenesis. In contrast, both the ALDH1A1 substrate 9‐cis retinal and its corresponding product 9‐cis retinoic acid potently induced the accumulation of MITF mRNA, Tyrosinase mRNA and melanin. ALDH1A1 depletion inhibited the ability of 9‐cis retinal but not 9‐cis retinoic acid to stimulate melanogenesis, indicating that ALDH1A1 regulates melanogenesis by catalysing the conversion of 9‐cis retinal to 9‐cis retinoic acid. The addition of potent ALDH1A inhibitors (cyanamide or Angeli's salt) suppressed Tyrosinase and MITF mRNA accumulation in vitro and also melanin accumulation in skin equivalents, suggesting that 9‐cis retinoids regulate melanogenesis in the intact epidermis. Taken together, these studies not only identify cyanamide as a potential novel treatment for hyperpigmentary disorders, but also identify 9‐cis retinoic acid as a pigment stimulatory agent that may have clinical utility in the treatment of hypopigmentary disorders, such as vitiligo.
l‐Serine deficiency caused by genetic Phgdh deletion leads to robust induction of 4E‐BP1 and subsequent repression of translation initiation in the developing central nervous system
Authors: Sayano Tomoko , Kawakami Yuriko , Kusada Wataru , Suzuki Takeshi , Kawano Yuki , Watanabe Akihiro , Takashima Kana , Arimoto Yashiho , Esaki Kayoko , Wada Akira , Yoshizawa Fumiaki , Watanabe Masahiko , Okamoto Masahiro , Hirabayashi Yoshio , Furuya Shigeki
Published: January 2013

Targeted disruption in mice of the gene encoding d‐3‐phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (Phgdh) results in embryonic lethality associated with a striking reduction in free l‐serine and growth retardation including severe brain malformation. We previously observed a severe impairment in neurogenesis of the central nervous system of Phgdh knockout (KO) embryos and a reduction in the protein content of their brains. Although these findings suggest that l‐serine deficiency links attenuation of mRNA translation to severe developmental malformation of the central nervous system, the underlying key molecular event remains unexplored. Here we demonstrate that mRNA of Eif4ebp1 encoding eukaryotic initiation factor 4 binding protein 1 and its protein, 4E‐BP1, are markedly induced in the central nervous system of Phgdh KO embryos, whereas a modest induction is observed in the liver. The increase in 4E‐BP1 was associated with a decrease in the cap initiation complex in the brain, as shown by lower levels of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4G bound to eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) and increased eIF4E interaction with 4E‐BP1 based on 7‐methyl‐GTP chromatography. eIF4E protein and polysomes were also diminished in Phgdh KO embryos. Induction of Eif4ebp1 mRNA and of 4E‐BP1 was reproduced in mouse embryonic fibroblasts established from Phgdh KO embryos under the condition of l‐serine deprivation. Induction of Eif4ebp1 mRNA was suppressed only when l‐serine was supplemented in the culture medium, indicating that reduced l‐serine availability regulates the induction of Eif4ebp1/4E‐BP1. These data suggest that elevated levels of 4E‐BP1 may be involved in a mechanism to arrest brain development in Phgdh KO embryos.
A 10‐year analysis of primary cutaneous malignant melanoma with sentinel lymph node biopsy and long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Beger Josefine , Hansel Gesina , Krönert Claudia , Fuchs Martin , Tanner Carmen , Schönlebe Jaqueline , Werner Carmen , Nowak Andreas , Haroske Gunter , Witzigmann Helmut , Wollina Uwe
Published: January 2013

Background

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is an important tool for accurate staging of patients with melanoma. There is an ongoing debate whether the procedure provides therapeutic benefits or not.

Objective

We wanted to analyze 10‐year data from an academic teaching hospital.

Patients and methods

During 1999–2009, 977 patients with early cutaneous melanoma have been treated. Of these, 419 patients had tumors ≥1 mm thickness. Patients with head and neck tumors were excluded, leaving 364 patients (202 men and 162 women). SLNB was not performed in 163 patients but was performed in 201 patients. For correction of bias, tumors >4 mm thickness were excluded from further statistical analysis.

Results

The detection rate of SLN was 94.4%. False negative SLN were observed in 8.9%. Adverse effects occurred in 5.5%. The rate of positive SLNB was 16.4% and lymph node involvement 20%. Patients undergoing SLNB had a lower relapse rate (10.6% vs. 33.3%; P < 0.001). The most important finding is an almost 50% lower total death rate and melanoma‐related death rate in the SLNB subgroup (P < 0.001 for both).

Conclusions

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is an accurate instrument for melanoma staging to detect occult regional lymph node involvement. Data suggest a positive effect on relapse‐free survival. The observation of improved long‐term survival needs validation in prospective multicenter trials. The limitations of this study were that it was a single center retrospective analysis.
Training teamwork in medicine: An active approach using role play and feedback
Authors: Prewett Matthew S. , Brannick Michael T. , Peckler Bradley
Published: January 2013

Recent reports in the field of medicine have recommended teamwork training as method of reducing human error. The current study evaluated a teamwork training protocol that used a lecture, several role plays, and guided discussion for feedback. Forty‐one medical residents participated in the training on 1 of 2 days (groups) and completed evaluation measures both prior to and immediately following the training program. Means for a situational judgment test (SJT) were higher for post‐training scores than pre‐training scores. However, mean comparisons with teamwork attitudes and learning goal orientation did not yield significant differences. An item analysis of the SJT responses indicated significant response shifts that corresponded to teamwork behaviors. Results suggested that teamwork training positively affected behavioral intentions for trauma room teamwork.
VisTrails SAHM: visualization and workflow management for species habitat modeling
Authors: Morisette Jeffrey T. , Jarnevich Catherine S. , Holcombe Tracy R. , Talbert Colin B. , Ignizio Drew , Talbert Marian K. , Silva Claudio , Koop David , Swanson Alan , Young Nicholas E.
Published: January 2013

The Software for Assisted Habitat Modeling (SAHM) has been created to both expedite habitat modeling and help maintain a record of the various input data, pre‐ and post‐processing steps and modeling options incorporated in the construction of a species distribution model through the established workflow management and visualization VisTrails software. This paper provides an overview of the VisTrails:SAHM software including a link to the open source code, a table detailing the current SAHM modules, and a simple example modeling an invasive weed species in Rocky Mountain National Park, USA.
Structural Optimization and Improved Discharged Energy Density for Niobate Glass‐Ceramics by La2O3 Addition
Authors: Zhou Yi , Zhang Qingmeng , Luo Jun , Tang Qun , Du Jun
Published: January 2013

The structural and dielectric properties were investigated in the La2O3 added glass‐ceramics based on complex niobates. With the addition of La2O3, the optimization of microstructure was observed which resulted in the improvement of breakdown strength for the glass‐ceramics. Besides, the dielectric constant was drastically enhanced because of the doping effect of La3+ in the A‐sites of both crystallographic structures. Due to the combined effects of both high breakdown strength and polarization difference, the maximum discharged energy density of 1.2 J/cm3 was achieved in the niobate glass‐ceramics with 2 mol% La2O3, suggesting dielectric glass‐ceramics of this composition could be the most attractive candidate for high‐energy density capacitors.
Prevalence and characteristics of impacted maxillary canines in southern Chinese children and adolescents
Authors: Sajnani Anand K. , King Nigel M.
Published: January 2013

Aim

The incidence of impacted maxillary canines in Caucasians reportedly ranges from 1% to 3%. The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence and determine the characteristics of impacted maxillary canines in southern Chinese children and adolescents.

Methods

This retrospective audit involved 533 subjects with impacted maxillary canines that had been treated between February 1982 and February 2009. A customized data entry form was prepared to record and evaluate the status of impacted canines.

Results

The 533 subjects (327 females and 206 males) with impacted maxillary canines, who were identified from the population of 26 039 subjects, represented a prevalence of 2.1%. Four hundred and forty‐two (82.9%) of these subjects had unilaterally impacted canines, while 91 (17.1%) of them had bilateral impactions. In 442 subjects with unilateral canine impactions, 220 (49.8%) were buccally placed, 194 (43.9%) were palatally placed, and 28 (6.3%) of the canines were found to lie within the arch.

Conclusions

The overall prevalence of impacted maxillary canines in this study of 2.1% was similar to the figures quoted for Caucasian populations. In subjects with unilateral impactions, buccally impacted canines demonstrated a slightly higher incidence (49.8%) compared to palatally impacted canines (43.9%).
Effects of berberine on rat jejunal motility
Authors: Chen Da-Peng , Xiong Yong-Jian , Lv Bo-Chao , Liu Fang-Fei , Wang Li , Tang Ze-Yao , Lin Yuan
Published: January 2013

Objectives

The aim of the study was to evaluate berberine-induced bidirectional regulation on the contractility of jejunum.

Methods

Different low and high contractile states of isolated jejunal segment from rat were established to investigate the effects of berberine.

Key findings

Stimulatory effects on jejunal segment were exerted by berberine in six low contractile states and inhibitory effects were produced on jejunal segment in six high contractile states. The effects of berberine on myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) mRNA expression, MLCK protein content, and myosin phosphorylation in jejunum were also bidirectional. Bidirectional regulation was not observed in the presence of tetrodotoxin. No regulatory effects of berberine on jejunal contractility were observed in the presence of verapamil. The stimulatory effects of berberine on jejunal contractility were blocked by atropine. The inhibitory effects of berberine on jejunal contractility were abolished by phentolamine, propranolol and L-NG-nitro-arginine, respectively.

Conclusions

Berberine-induced bidirectional regulation needed the presence of the enteric nervous system, and depended on the influx of extracellular Ca2+, related to the cholinergic system while jejunum was in low contractile states, and related to the adrenergic system and nitric oxide relaxing mechanism while jejunum was in high contractile states. The results suggested the potential clinical implication of berberine for alternating-type irritable bowel syndrome.