bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating hormones into the floral‐transition pathway of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: DAVIS SETH J.
Published: March 2009

The transition from vegetative to reproductive growth is a major phase change in angiosperms. In annual plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis), this change is irreversible, and as such, the regulation of its timing must be tightly controlled. Plant hormone (phytohormone) signalling is known to regulate suites of morphogenic processes in Arabidopsis a role in flowering‐time control is starting to emerge as one key‐controlling step. This review focuses on experimental evidence in the Arabidopsis that both classical and newly described phytohormones serve within the signal network leading to a reproductive phase transition, as both positive and repressive elements, depending on the phytohormone and growth conditions. Examples of genetic and pharmacological experiments that implicate phytohormones as components of the floral‐timing syndrome will be described. I hope that this review will serve as a primer for future research on the mechanisms of action for each respective phytohormone on the floral transition in Arabidopsis, and lead to further experimentation on the crosstalk that likely bridges between them.
Generation of a Dendritic Cell‐based Vaccine in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia Using CliniMACS Platform for Large‐scale Production
Authors: Adamson L. , Palma M. , Choudhury A. , Eriksson I. , Näsman‐Glaser B. , Hansson M. , Hansson L. , Kokhaei P. , Österborg A. , Mellstedt H.
Published: March 2009

We previously demonstrated that dendritic cells (DC) that have endocytosed apoptotic bodies of autologous leukemic cells (Apo‐DC) can boost antileukemic T‐cell responses. In this study, we report a description of the production procedure and product specification of the Apo‐DC vaccine preparations for clinical use. Enriched populations of CD14+ monocytic precursors and CD19+ leukaemic cells were obtained using CliniMACS technology from a single leukapheresis product. Apoptotic bodies were obtained by irradiating (5 Gy) CD19+ selected B cells. DC were generated ex vivo by culturing monocytes with granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor and interleukin‐4. Following coculture with apoptotic bodies, DCs were matured with tumour necrosis factor‐α. The mean percentage of CD14+ cells in the peripheral blood as well as in the leukapheresis product of the patients (n = 10) was approximately 2% (range, 0.8–3.3). Immunomagnetic selection using the CD14 reagent yielded a CD14+ population that was 91 ± 2.2% (mean ± SEM) pure. Immunomagnetic selection of CD19 expressing cells yielded a population that was 100 ± 0.03% pure. Cell viability immediately after selection was 97% and 98% after 7 days of culture. The Apo‐DC cellular vaccine product showed a mature phenotype, with a high rate of endocytosis (84%) of apoptotic leukemic B‐cells. In conclusion, despite significant variability in the circulating monocyte frequency of the chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patients, our method permitted the production of a DC vaccine with high reproducibility and conforming with recommended quality standards.
In SituDeposition of Complement in Human Acute Brain Ischaemia
Authors: Pedersen E. D. , Løberg E. M. , Vege E. , Daha M. R. , Mæhlen J. , Mollnes T. E.
Published: March 2009

Experimental animal models indicate that complement contributes to tissue damage during brain ischaemia and stroke, but limited data are available for a role of the complement in human stroke. We, therefore, evaluated whether acute ischaemia leads to complement activation in human brain. Indirect immunohistochemical staining was performed on paraffin‐embedded, formalin‐fixed human brain from 10 patients and 10 controls. Complement components C1q, C3c and C4d were detected in all ischaemic lesions, suggesting activation via the classical pathway. C9, C‐reactive protein and IgM were detected in necrotic zones. Marked CD59 and weak CD55 expression were found in normal brains, but these complement regulators were virtually absent in ischaemic lesions. Modest amounts of mannose‐binding lectin (MBL), MBL‐associated serine protease‐2 and factor B were found in both ischaemic lesions and controls. These data suggest that increased deposition of complement components combined with decreased expression of complement regulators is a possible mechanism of tissue damage during ischaemia in human brain.
Identification of net‐winged beetle larvae (Coleoptera: Lycidae) using three mtDNA fragments: a comparison of their utility
Authors: LEVKANICOVA ZUZANA , BOCAK LADISLAV
Published: March 2009

AbstractWe investigated the effectiveness of short mitochondrial DNA fragments for the identification of lycid larvae. TherrnL,cox1andnad5mtDNA sequences from 17 specimens of immature stages of Lycidae and Lampyridae were combined with a previously published dataset of homologous fragments representing all major lineages of Lycidae and outgroups. Their relationships were analysed under parsimony criteria. We demonstrate that high‐density profiles are necessary for accurate identification of unknown samples to generic and tribal levels and that a multilocus approach is critical for obtaining reliable results. Although widely used, thecox1mtDNA fragment showed the worst performance for identification at genus level when the query species was not present in the library. Stronger support for deeper branches came fromrrnLmtDNA. The neotenic female larvae and male adult stages ofPlaterodrilussp. andMacrolibnetis depressusPic, 1938 were associated by mtDNA fragments. Based on the present identification, larvae of Dictyopterini (Dictyopterini gen. sp.,Dictyoptera auroraHerbst, 1784),Sulabanussp.,Leptotrichalussp. (Metriorrhynchini) andMacrolibnetis depressusPic, 1938 (Platerodrilini) are described for the first time. Further species ofPlatycisThomson, 1859,PlaterosBourgeois, 1979,MacrolycusWaterhouse, 1878,CautiresWaterhouse, 1879 andLyponiaWaterhouse, 1878 are identified by morphology and molecular markers. The data on larval morphology and their usefulness for classification are discussed.
Systematics and biogeography of Australian rhopalosomatid wasps (Hymenoptera: Rhopalosomatidae) with a global synopsis of the enigmatic genusOlixonCameron
Authors: KROGMANN LARS , AUSTIN ANDREW D. , NAUMANN IAN D.
Published: March 2009

AbstractThe wasp family Rhopalosomatidae is represented in Australia only by the genusOlixonCameron. Species of this genus have previously been considered rare based on material in collections and have rarely been observed in the field. All known species ofOlixonare brachypterous, solitary ectoparasitoids of crickets (Orthoptera: Gryllidae). Prior to our study the world fauna comprised 11 species of which two were endemic to north‐eastern Australia. Based on specimens collected during recent intensive surveys in Australia we record 17 species for the continent. Fifteen of these species are described as new, which more than doubles the world fauna ofOlixon: Olixon abrahami,O.danggari,O.ferrugineum,O.guyim,O.harveyi,O.helgae,O.jandakotae,O.jawoyn,O.jenningsi,O.kakadui,O.pilbara,O.wajuk,O.waldockae,O.wuthathi and O.zonalespp.n. Females ofOlixon australiaePerkins andOlixon flavibaseTownes are redescribed, and the male ofO. flavibaseis described for the first time. A key is provided for all 17 Australian species and their distribution is discussed. Results of a cladistic analysis of the world species ofOlixonbased on 41 morphological characters for 24 ingroup species are presented. The results obtained from equal and implied weighting parsimony analyses indicate that: (i) the Australian species ofOlixonare not monophyletic, (ii) about three‐quarters of the Australian species form a monophyletic group, and (iii) a Central/South AmericanOlixonis sister to all other species. The implications of these results for the biogeography of worldOlixonspecies are briefly discussed.
Effect of education and pill count on hemoglobin status during prenatal care in Nepalese women: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Adhikari Kamala , Liabsuetrakul Tippawan , Pradhan Neelam
Published: March 2009

Aim: To determine the effect of an education program and/or pill count on the change in hemoglobin levels and the prevalence of anemia in pregnant women.

Methods: A randomized, factorial design controlled trial was conducted at the Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Nepal. A total of 320 eligible pregnant women receiving prenatal care were randomized into four groups (control, education, pill count and education with pill count) by block randomization with allocation concealment. All recruited women received conventional routine prenatal care with a daily dose of 60 mg iron supplementation. In addition, the education group received an education program. Pill counting was done for the pill count group at their routine prenatal visits. The education with pill count group received both the education program plus pill counting. Baseline hemoglobin at the recruitment phase and follow‐up hemoglobin after three months of recruitment were measured. Changes in hemoglobin levels and anemia prevalence were analyzed and compared between groups.

Results: The education only and education with pill count groups had significantly higher hemoglobin changes (0.23 and 0.26 g/dL, respectively) than the control group (P < 0.01). Anemia was reduced by 59% in the education group and by 65% in the education with pill count group, compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Pill count alone significantly improved neither the hemoglobin level nor anemia prevalence compared to the control group.

Conclusion: An education program along with routine iron supplementation can improve hemoglobin levels and reduce anemia prevalence in pregnant women. Pill count as a measure of compliance has no additional effect on improving hemoglobin status.
Preliminary characterization of vaginal microbiota in healthy Chinese women using cultivation‐independent methods
Authors: Shi Yi , Chen Leiqiong , Tong Jianqian , Xu Chen
Published: March 2009

Aim:  The normal microbiota plays an important role in maintaining the vaginal health of women. The aim of this study was to characterize the numerically dominant populations of vaginal microbial communities in Chinese women.

Methods:  Genomic DNA was isolated from samples of vaginal swabs of five healthy women, 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid libraries were constructed and the sequences of 300 clones from each library were determined and subjected to phylogenetic analyses. The phylotypes were classified based on sequence similarity to known organisms.

Results:  All vaginal microbial communities were dominated by the Lactobacillus species, and they constituted from 96.4% to 100% of the clones sequenced. Sequences homologous to L. crispatus and L. iners were most common, which were highly homologous with those of Caucasian women in the USA.

Conclusions:  The numerically dominant microbial populations in healthy Chinese women's vaginas were L. crispatus and L. iners. The limited number of Lactobacillus phylotypes found in the human vagina suggested that host factors have a role in the selection of specific organisms, which have specific characteristics that allow them to successfully colonize the vagina.
The impact of lower urinary tract symptoms on male sexual health: EpiLUTS
Authors: Wein Alan J. , Coyne Karin S. , Tubaro Andrea , Sexton Chris C. , Kopp Zoe S. , Aiyer Lalitha P.
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between International Continence Society categories of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS; storage, voiding, and postmicturition) and individual LUTS (associated with decreased sexual activity and sexual satisfaction in men) with erectile dysfunction (ED), ejaculatory dysfunction (EjD) and premature ejaculation (PE).

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The impact of LUTS on men’s sexual health was captured as part of a cross‐sectional epidemiological study to assess the prevalence LUTS among men and women aged ≥40 years in the USA, the UK and Sweden.

RESULTS

The analysis included 11 834 men with a mean age of 56.1 years, 71% of whom reported being currently sexually active. The primary reason for not being sexually active was no partner (35%), followed by personal health (23%) and no desire (23%). Of the men, 26% had mild to severe ED, 7% had EjD, and 16% PE. Men with multiple LUTS had more severe ED and more frequent EjD and PE. Logistic regression analysis showed that greater age, hypertension, diabetes, depression, urgency with fear of leaking, and leaking during sexual activity were significantly associated with ED. The results were similar in the logistic regression analysis for EjD, whereas being younger and the absence of prostatitis were significantly associated with PE, as were the presence of terminal dribble, incomplete emptying, and split stream.

CONCLUSION

LUTS are associated with common sexual dysfunctions in men. The results of this study highlight the importance of assessing the sexual health of men presenting with LUTS.
Statistical learning of phonetic categories: insights from a computational approach
Authors: McMurray Bob , Aslin Richard N. , Toscano Joseph C.
Published: March 2009

Recent evidence (

Maye, Werker & Gerken, 2002

) suggests that statistical learning may be an important mechanism for the acquisition of phonetic categories in the infant's native language. We examined the sufficiency of this hypothesis and its implications for development by implementing a statistical learning mechanism in a computational model based on a mixture of Gaussians (MOG) architecture. Statistical learning alone was found to be insufficient for phonetic category learning – an additional competition mechanism was required in order for the categories in the input to be successfully learnt. When competition was added to the MOG architecture, this class of models successfully accounted for developmental enhancement and loss of sensitivity to phonetic contrasts. Moreover, the MOG with competition model was used to explore a potentially important distributional property of early speech categories – sparseness – in which portions of the space between phonetic categories are unmapped. Sparseness was found in all successful models and quickly emerged during development even when the initial parameters favoured continuous representations with no gaps. The implications of these models for phonetic category learning in infants are discussed.
The secret is in the sound: from unsegmented speech to lexical categories
Authors: Christiansen Morten H. , Onnis Luca , Hockema Stephen A.
Published: March 2009

When learning language, young children are faced with many seemingly formidable challenges, including discovering words embedded in a continuous stream of sounds and determining what role these words play in syntactic constructions. We suggest that knowledge of phoneme distributions may play a crucial part in helping children segment words and determine their lexical category, and we propose an integrated model of how children might go from unsegmented speech to lexical categories. We corroborated this theoretical model using a two‐stage computational analysis of a large corpus of English child‐directed speech. First, we used transition probabilities between phonemes to find words in unsegmented speech. Second, we used distributional information about word edges – the beginning and ending phonemes of words – to predict whether the segmented words from the first stage were nouns, verbs, or something else. The results indicate that discovering lexical units and their associated syntactic category in child‐directed speech is possible by attending to the statistics of single phoneme transitions and word‐initial and final phonemes. Thus, we suggest that a core computational principle in language acquisition is that the same source of information is used to learn about different aspects of linguistic structure.
The General Form of the Proposition: The Unity of Language and the Generality of Logic in the Early Wittgenstein
Authors: McManus Denis
Published: March 2009

The paper presents an interpretation of the thinking behind the early Wittgenstein's “general form of the proposition.” It argues that a central role is played by the assumption that all domains of discourse are governed by the same laws of logic. The interpretation is presented partly through a comparison with ideas presented recently by Michael Potter and Peter Sullivan; the paper argues that the above assumption explains more of the key characteristics of the “general form of the proposition” than Potter and Sullivan suppose, including, in particular, its claim that the bases from which all other propositions are derived must be elementary propositions.
Discourse marker ‘oh’ as a means for realizing the identity potential of constructed dialogue in interaction1
Authors: Trester Anna Marie
Published: March 2009

This research explores how discourse markerohworks with constructed dialogue (quoted speech), identifying a use ofohnot discussed in previous research in which it can serve to signal speakerstancetowards quoted material. While both discourse markers and constructed dialogue have been widely discussed as identity resources in the discourse analytic and interactional‐sociolinguistic tradition, there has been little work considering how these linguistic features may work together. In this paper, I address this gap by illustrating howBakhtin's (1984)notions of uni‐directional and vari‐directional double voicing articulate with information display and evaluation functions ofohidentified bySchiffrin (1987), suggesting thatoh(when occurring as a preface to constructed dialogue), works both todisplayandevaluatequoted material for the purposes of identity construction in interaction. Such uses of this discourse marker provide illustration of howfootingworks together with related concepts ofevaluation,positioning, andalignmentas part of a process of stancetaking in interaction (Du Bois 2007). Examples are taken from ethnographic interviews collected as part of a larger study of the linguistic style of a community of improv performers in Washington, D.C. focusing primarily on examples contributed by one speaker, Josh.
The influence of the interviewing style and the historical context on positioning shifts in the narrative of a Second World War Resistance member1
Authors: Van De Mieroop Dorien , Bruyninckx Kris
Published: March 2009

This article involves a study of the narrative of a Second World War Resistance member by means of an interview in which the interviewer explicitly inserts the historical context by selecting the topics for discussion and asking critical questions. The interview deals with three periods: the Wartime period; the First Wave of Reprisals; and the Second Wave of Reprisals. The analyses show that the interviewee's first and second‐level positionings shift along with changes in historical period and that they mirror the general historical image of the Resistance. These different positionings are highly consistent in themselves and this consistency is also present on the third level of positioning, because of the interviewee's fairly muted style of narrating, by which blatant inconsistencies are avoided and a general, ‘good’ identity is constructed. The article also demonstrates that the interview style adds another, important dimension to the analysis of identities in life stories.
Designing Permanent Sample Plots by Using a Spatially Hierarchical Matrix Population Model
Authors: Chagneau P. , Mortier F. , Picard N.
Published: March 2009

Designing permanent sample plots is a key issue in forestry where long-term data are required to assess the sustainability of forest logging. The data that are collected in permanent sample plots are used to set parameters in a population dynamics matrix model which in turn is used to predict stock recovery rates for each species. The sampling plan for permanent plots can be designed to estimate stock recovery rates with a required accuracy at a given confidence level, while minimizing installation costs. This can be formulated as a constrained optimization problem (one constraint for each species). The question then is to quantify sampling variability, i.e. the variability of model predictions that are generated by the distribution of parameter estimators. In this study, we address the question of sampling variability for a size-classified population matrix model in a hierarchical context where sample size is itself random and driven by a multivariate spatial point process. An approximate expression is given for the accuracy of the stock recovery rate estimator. This expression is the limit of the accuracy as the expectation of sample size tends to ∞. We extend this expression to the multispecies case. To a first approximation, interactions between species do not affect the accuracy of the stock recovery rate for each species. A sampling plan is designed using the data for three species in a tropical rainforest in French Guiana. The optimal sampling plan appears to be determined by the most constrained species.
The atypical protein kinase C in Aplysia can form a protein kinase M by cleavage
Authors: Bougie Joanna K. , Lim Travis , Farah Carole Abi , Manjunath Varsha , Nagakura Ikue , Ferraro Gino B. , Sossin Wayne S.
Published: March 2009

In vertebrates, a brain‐specific transcript from the atypical protein kinase C (PKC) ζ gene encodes protein kinase M (PKM) ζ, a constitutively active kinase implicated in the maintenance of synaptic plasticity and memory. We have cloned the atypical PKC from Aplysia, PKC Apl III. We did not find a transcript in Aplysia encoding PKMζ, and evolutionary analysis of atypical PKCs suggests formation of this transcript is restricted to vertebrates. Instead, over‐expression of PKC Apl III in Aplysia sensory neurons leads to production of a PKM fragment of PKC Apl III. This cleavage was induced by calcium and blocked by calpain inhibitors. Moreover, nervous system enriched spliced forms of PKC Apl III show enhanced cleavage. PKC Apl III could also be activated through phosphorylation downstream of phosphoinositide 3‐kinase. We suggest that PKM forms of atypical PKCs play a conserved role in memory formation, but the mechanism of formation of these kinases has changed over evolution.
Influence of the Initiation Length in Predictions of Life in Fretting Fatigue
Authors: Navarro C. , Muñoz S. , Domínguez J.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Two different phases are usually distinguished in the crack growth process: initiation and propagation. Within the models used in determining fatigue life, there are many that combine both phases, determining total life as the sum of the number of cycles spent in initiation, Ni, and propagation, Np. In order to apply these models, it is necessary to define the crack length at which it is considered that initiation finishes and propagation begins: initiation length, ai. This length is usually defined a priori based on the size of the smallest detectable crack, on the definition of failure in the S‐N curve, or by choosing the value that better fits the experimental results. The object of this paper is to analyse the influence of this initiation length over the estimated fatigue life in fretting fatigue. The model used calculates the initiation phase from an S‐N curve where the propagation cycles from the defined initiation length have been subtracted. This model is applied to a group of fretting fatigue tests with spherical contact.
Inhibition of anti‐IgE mediated human mast cell activation by NO donors is dependent on their NO release kinetics
Authors: Yip KH , Leung FP , Huang Y , Lau HYA
Published: March 2009

Background and purpose: Although the mast cell is a source of nitric oxide (NO), the effect of NO on human mast cells has not been defined. This study investigated if exogenous NO could affect human mast cell activation.

Experimental approach: Effects of different NO donors on immunoglobulin E (IgE)‐dependent activation of human‐cultured mast cells (HCMC) derived from precursors in buffy coat were investigated by measuring histamine release. Intracellular NO in HCMC was monitored with confocal microscopy using the fluorescent NO indicator 4‐amino‐5‐methylamino‐2′, 7′‐difluorofluorescein.

Key results: Diethylamine NONOate (DEA/NO) and MAHMA NONOate (NOC‐9), both have rapid NO release rates, only inhibited anti‐IgE‐induced histamine release when added to HCMC at the time of activation. NO donors with slower NO release kinetics were ineffective even after 30 min incubation. Confocal microscopy revealed that the effectiveness of NO donors was dependent on the availability of adequate NO inside HCMC during activation. The inhibitory action of DEA/NO was diminished by the NO scavenger, 2‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐4,4,5,5‐tetramethylimidazoline‐3‐oxide‐1‐oxyl but potentiated by the anti‐oxidant, N‐acetylcysteine (NAC). Furthermore, co‐incubation with NAC allowed previously ineffective NO donors to suppress HCMC activation and thus suggested that NAC could increase the availability of NO from NO donors.

Conclusions and implications: Our results demonstrated that NO was able to modulate human mast cell activation but only when enough NO was present at the time of cell activation. Our findings explain the controversy over the effectiveness of NO on mast cell degranulation and supports the possibility that NO donors could be beneficial for treating allergic inflammation.
Amiloride derivatives induce apoptosis by depleting ER Ca2+ stores in vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Park KS , Poburko D , Wollheim CB , Demaurex N
Published: March 2009

Background and purpose:  Amiloride derivatives are blockers of the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) and at micromolar concentrations have protective effects on cardiac and brain ischaemia/reperfusion injury but at higher concentrations also induce apoptosis. Here, we aimed to elucidate the mechanism related to this cytotoxic action.

Experimental approach:  We quantified the expression of genes associated with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and measured changes in luminal ER Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]ER) with a ‘cameleon’ indicator, D1ER.

Key results:  Amiloride derivatives induced apoptosis in vascular endothelial cells, an effect that increased at alkaline extracellular pH. The potency order for cytotoxicity was 5‐(N,N‐hexamethylene)‐amiloride (HMA) > 5‐(N‐methyl‐N‐isobutyl) amiloride > 5‐(N‐ethyl‐N‐isopropyl) amiloride (EIPA) >> amiloride. HMA dose‐dependently increased the transcription of the ER stress genes GADD153 and GADD34 and rapidly depleted [Ca2+]ER, mimicking the effects of the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum ATPase (SERCA) inhibitor thapsigargin. The NHE1‐specific inhibitor HOE 694 inhibited NHE activity by 87% but did not alter [Ca2+]ER. The decrease in [Ca2+]ER evoked by amiloride derivatives was also observed in HeLa cells and was mirrored by an increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration.

Conclusions and implications:  Amiloride derivatives disrupt ER and cytosolic Ca2+ homeostasis by a mechanism unrelated to NHE inhibition, most likely by interfering with the activity of SERCA. We propose that ER Ca2+ depletion and subsequent ER stress provide a rationale framework for the apoptotic effects of amiloride derivatives.
MAOA‐uVNTR Polymorphism May Modify the Protective Effect of ALDH2 Gene Against Alcohol Dependence in Antisocial Personality Disorder
Authors: Lee Sheng‐Yu , Hahn Cheng‐Yi , Lee Jia‐Fu , Chen Shiou‐Lan , Chen Shih‐Heng , Yeh Tzung Lieh , Kuo Po‐Hsiu , Lee I Hui , Yang Yen Kuang , Huang San‐Yuan , Ko Huei‐Chen , Lu Ru‐Band
Published: March 2009

Background:  Antisocial alcoholism is related to dopamine and serotonin which are catalyzed by monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2). The objective of this study is to determine whether the interaction between the MAOA and the ALDH2 genes is associated with subjects with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) having alcoholism.

Methods:  A total of 294 Han Chinese men in Taiwan including 132 ASPD with alcoholism (Antisocial ALC) and 162 without alcoholism (Antisocial Non‐ALC) were recruited in this study. Alcohol dependence and ASPD were diagnosed according to DSM‐IV criteria. Genotypes of ALDH2 and MAOA‐uVNTR were determined using PCR‐RFLP.

Results:  A significant difference of ALDH2 polymorphisms (p = 3.39E‐05), but not of MAOA, was found among the 2 study groups. However, only after the stratification of the MAOA‐uVNTR (variable number of tandem repeat located upstream) 3‐repeat, a significant association between Antisocial Non‐ALC and ALDH2*1/*2 or *2/*2 genotypes was shown (p = 1.46E–05; odds ratio = 3.913); whereas stratification of MAOA‐uVNTR 4‐repeat revealed no association. Multiple logistic regression analysis further revealed significant interaction of MAOA and ALDH2 gene in antisocial ALC (odds ratio = 2.927; p = 0.032).

Conclusion:  The possible interaction of MAOA and ALDH2 gene is associated with Antisocial ALC in Han Chinese males in Taiwan. However, the protective effects of the ALDH2*2 allele against alcoholism might disappear in subjects with ASPD and carrying MAOA‐uVNTR 4‐repeat allele in the Han Chinese male population.
Effect of Acute Ethanol Administration on the Release of Opioid Peptides From the Midbrain Including the Ventral Tegmental Area
Authors: Jarjour Samuel , Bai Li , Gianoulakis Christina
Published: March 2009

Background: Experimental evidence suggests that ethanol alters the activity of the endogenous opioid peptide systems in a dose and brain‐region dependent manner. These alterations may influence the processes of ethanol reward and reinforcement. Thus, it was the objective of this study to investigate the response of the 3 major opioid peptide systems (endorphins, enkephalins, and dynorphins) to acute ethanol administration, at the level of the midbrain including the ventral tegmental area (midbrain/VTA), a region important for drug, including ethanol reinforcement.

Methods: Using the in vivo microdialysis technique coupled with specific solid‐phase radioimmunoassay for β‐endorphin, met‐enkephalin, and dynorphin A1–8,changes in the extracellular concentration of theses peptides at the level of midbrain/VTA were determined at distinct time points following the administration of 0.0 (saline), 0.8, 1.2, 1.6, 2.0, and 2.4 g ethanol/kg B.Wt.

Results: A biphasic effect of ethanol on β‐endorphin release was found, with low to medium (1.2, 1.6, and 2.0 g) but not high (2.4 g) doses of ethanol, inducing a significant increase in the dialysate content of β‐endorphin. A late increase in the dialysate content of dynorphin A1–8was observed in response to the 1.2 g ethanol dose. However, none of the ethanol doses tested significantly altered the content of met‐enkephalin in the dialysate.

Conclusions: The present findings suggest that the ethanol‐induced increase of β‐endorphin release at the level of midbrain/VTA may influence alcohol reinforcement.
MARINE BOILER FURNACE DIMENSIONS—A STANDARDIZATION APPROACH
Authors: BAHGAT F.
Published: March 2009

A method is proposed for the standardization of marine boiler furnace dimensions particularly of the vertical superheater distributing header type. With standardization of the furnace dimensions the remaining boiler element could, in turn, be subject to similar standardization which produces a cheaper boiler that can be delivered in a shorter period besides reducing the problem of the spare parts required.

In this paper a brief account is given of the different types of marine boilers in use. The requirements for furnace dimensions are next discussed and finally the furnace standardization approach is explained followed by a brief account of the problem of superheater slagging as affecting marine boiler furnace design.
THE POTENTIAL OF SUPERCONDUCTORS FOR SHIPBOARD POWER APPLICATIONS
Authors: JANES CHARLES F.
Published: March 2009

SYNOPSIS

This paper will present the salient features of the phenomenon of superconductivity as they apply to power systems. The peculiar problems and the potential savings in weight and space for high powered dynamo‐electric machinery will be examined. Examples of potential machines will be described.
PURE FLUIDIC CONTROL SYSTEM FOR SUBMARINE HOVER DURING MISSILE LAUNCHING
Authors: BUCK JON R.
Published: March 2009

A feasibility study of a pure “Fluidic Control System for Submarine Hover During Missile Launching” has been conducted. This paper describes the operational parameters, induced forces, and control systems circuit for submarine hover control.

Hover control must be provided during missile launching. The submarine is brought to a predetermined depth and hover speed. It must maintain this position when subjected to cyclic and suction wave generated forces, as well as missile reaction forces. The fluidic control system controls the response of four fluidic “Hover Jets”. The “Hover Jets” provide the power source required to counteract cyclic, suction, and missile reaction forces.
SHIPBOARD RADIO DIRECTION FINDER INSTALLATION FOR THE 3 TO 30 MHz RANGE
Authors: SHERRILL W. M. , GREEN T. C. , TRAVERS D. N.
Published: March 2009

This report summarizes the practical requirements for siting radio direction finders operating in the 3 to 30 mc range and is intended primarily for the use of personnel responsible for site selection and DF antenna installation on Naval ships. The effects of reradiation from the ship's superstructure on direction finder performance are described. By the use of specific examples of shipboard installations, the merits of various siting compromises are discussed.
MANUAL CONTROL OF A SMALL SUBMARINE
Authors: RAWLING A. G. , JOHNSON N. L.
Published: March 2009

In designing the man‐multiloop control system for a small submersible, many different types of terminal equipment for manual intervention can interface with the human operator, including handlebars, wheels, joysticks and pedals. The proper choice of the means to control the boat in attitude and steering, as well as the actual implementation, constitute a major human factors design problem. This paper discusses a particularly promising concept of manual control that has shown superiority over several alternatives, and decribes the real‐time simulation employed in verifying its advantages.
SECOND GENERATION GAS TURBINE
Authors: PYLE EDWIN , PETERSON ROY
Published: March 2009

Paper covers an approach to providing a greatly improved marine gas turbine with respect to fuel economy.

Coupled with this improvement in fuel economy are potential improvements in reliability and maintainability.

A discussion of the modular concepts of gas turbine powering for future ships is given.
STATIC MOORING ‐ A REVIEW OF THE STATE OF THE ART
Authors: KEAYS KEATINGE
Published: March 2009

The state‐of‐the‐art of static mooring is reviewed with particular emphasis on its reliability, stability, and survivability since these three characteristics were emphasized by the U.S. Coast Guard in seeking Systems Engineering Services for the National Data Buoy System.

Methods of estimating forces on the moored object are briefly reviewed. The lack of rational anchor design criteria and the inability to relate anchor holding power to ocean bottom physical characteristics is discussed. Recent research in the field of catenary analysis is briefly cited. Major material considerations, technical factors relating to wire rope, corrosion protection measures, quality assurance and component testing programs are highlighted.

The conclusions are that the state‐of‐the‐art of mooring systems will not permit an acceptable level of confidence in its reliability, stability, and survivability; that the major areas of effort must be in force and anchor holding power predictions, and that the attention to engineering details, quality assurance and component testing are of primary importance.
COMPUTERS‐A BLESSING OR A CURSE
Authors: CHRISTOPHER CHRIS A.
Published: March 2009

The benefits of data system computers to the Navy to date are developed to highlight the blessings. Both achievements and future requirements are discussed.

The problems attendant on achievement of potential advantages of data system computers, and the penalties of failure to liquidate these liabilities constitute the discussion of the curse of computerizations.

Since both the potentials and liabilities of computers go forward hand‐in‐hand, the argument is made that computers can be a blessing to the degree that the liabilities are liquidated.

Some practical suggestions as to liquidating the critical liabilities are offered from the point of view of industry to assist in attaining the potential of computers and data systems in support of the Navy's missions, roles, and objectives.
A SYSTEMS APPROACH TO HULL STRUCTURE DESIGN
Authors: RAWAT P.
Published: March 2009

Many useful conclusions can be drawn if hull structural design is considered as a system. Proper definition of system objectives enables setting up of meaningful long range and intermediate goals. Current state‐of‐art in systems engineering is such that the system objectives can be denned in mathematical form. This provides meaningful scales for progress measurement. The engineering function is to meet the goals set by systems engineering. The state‐of‐art in engineering has a considerable impact on the definition of system objectives. In recent times we have made considerable progress in developing analytical techniques. Many interesting conclusions result from our experience in using the analytical tools in an iterative manner for design. By using relatively simple algorithms for iteration the analytical processes can be sequenced in such a manner that optimum solution is guaranteed even under a large and complex set of design constraints. Use of computers makes it possible to generate the scantlings using iterative approach with such speed that many important structural configuration decisions can be made by means of thorough parametric analyses. The system objectives therefore are very different in scope today and they should be further modified as technology advances. There are several problems that can be recognized and solved in the systems context. Smooth man‐machine operation is an example of this.
DEVELOPING A STATISTICALLY DESIGNED EXPERIMENT FOR COMPARING TECHNICAL MANUALS ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Authors: ORLEANS BEATRICE S. , MYERS STANLEY
Published: March 2009

This paper describes how the increased numbers and complexity of electronics equipment in Navy ships has increased shipboard maintenance requirements, and describes the search for an improved maintenance manual concept. It describes one new concept, the Symbolic Integrated Maintenance Manual (SIMM), and describes the difference between SIMM and the currently used conventional manual, and efforts being made to evaluate the differences statistically. It explains why these evaluations must be properly planned according to statistical principles in order to come up with conclusions in which you can have confidence. The paper details the factors that must be considered in developing a designed experiment for evaluating the maintenance effectiveness of technical manuals. It also includes the essentials of the designed experiment developed by the Navy for the SIMM versus conventional manual comparison; this experiment will be adaptable, however, for use in comparing the effectiveness of any concepts in technical manuals.
SUBMERSIBLE LIFE SUPPORT COMPONENTS AND SYSTEMS
Authors: BEVING DUANE U. , DUDDLESTON RONALD J.
Published: March 2009

The present state‐of‐the‐art of Life support Systems for undersea application is defined. Restrictions that have been Placed on undersea exploration due to lack of advancement in submersible and diver life support equipments are reviewed. Areas are identified where additional development is required to overcome technical limitations of current under. sea life support systems.
Methods For Improving Shipboard Waveguide Installations
Authors: FOGLIANI NEIL M. , BRAUT J. A.
Published: March 2009

Many dollars are expended by the Navy to increase output power and range capabilities of search and fire control radar systems. The same results can be achieved to some extent by improving shipboard waveguide installation procedures, thereby reducing power losses in runs. To this end, for every db of power loss eliminated, a pay off of approximately 10% increase in range capability can be expected. One convenient way to eliminate waveguide power loss is to apply half wavelength phasing concepts to all bends and twists. This paper describes a half wavelength phasing technique in addition to other power saving installation practices which are usually overlooked by installing activities.
Morphology: A Tool for Planning Tomorrows Navy
Authors: CARSON BERNARD H. , KRIDA ROBERT H.
Published: March 2009

In viewing the necessity for planners to move rapidly if our present level of seapower is to improve (or to at least remain intact) in the coming decades, it is clear that the traditional evolutionary process of creating “new'' weapons systems is not satisfactory. A real necessity for improvement exists not only in the area of hardware but in the methodology that is employed in generating this hardware. This paper suggests how the morphological method can be incorporated as a valuable aid to present methodology, using the problem of aircraft/ship retrieval as an illustrative example.
The Significance of Certain Parameters in Buoyancy System Performance
Authors: HANSEN O. RICHARD , UHLER DALE G.
Published: March 2009

The advent of deep ocean technology has created a need of buoyancy at ever increasing depths. This paper concerns itself with two most widely used techniques for dewatering/deballasting, compressed air supplied by surface maintained compressors and high pressure gases contained in pressure vessels.

The objective of the paper is to examine the effects on these two techniques of various parameters which, in the author's opinion, are often overlooked by design engineers. This results in a significant degradation of the system under actual operating conditions.

The principal parameters involved are structural integrity, geometric properties, material properties and the variance with pressure of the real gas properties and sea water density.

This paper is an attempt to appraise designers and users of the impact of the above considerations on proposed buoyancy systems.
RATEAITS IMPACT ON MODERN ENGINEERING‐II
Authors: POTTER JAMES H.
Published: March 2009

Summary

In the August Journal the earlier work of Auguste Rateau was reviewed, with emphasis on his efforts in turbomachinery. Here the later investigations in several aspects of flying are considered.

His interest in fluid dynamics embraced both liquids and gases, and he made significant contributions in each area. His work on propellers, initially concerned with marine applications, he extended to cover the design and performance characteristics of aircraft types. His basic interest in turbo‐compressors led him to perhaps the most fruitful area of his endeavors—the turbo‐supercharger.
AN ADVANCED CONCEPT FOR PROPELLER‐DRIVEN SURFACE EFFECT SHIPS (SES)
Authors: BUTLER EDWARD A.
Published: March 2009

The Surface Effect Ships Project Office (SESPO) in conjunction with the Naval Research and Development Center (NSRDC) has been conducting basic super‐cavitating propellor research since 1967. This effort has included investigations into the effects of many various configurations in order to obtain a better understanding and the necessary design data for the application of these propellers to Surface Effect Ships (SES). Of particular interest are the recent results of experimentation with partially submerged supercavitating propellers (PSSCP) at various angles of attack, i.e., propeller shaft inclination and blade rake. This effort was motivated by potential gains in propeller efficiency, reduction of transverse forces, and more flexible machinery arrangements. Although this research does not attempt to optimize propeller design characteristics and many questions remain to be answered, the results to date do confirm that such benefits can be realized in a practical intallation for any high performance craft.

For the Definitions and Notation used throughout the paper, the Reader is referred to APPENDIX I following the References.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE USN SURFACE EFFECT SHIP, SES‐100B
Authors: MANTLE PETER J.
Published: March 2009

As a major step toward achieving a 100‐knot capability at sea for the U.S. Navy and an integral part of an overall SES Program, the Surface Effect Ship, SES‐100B, was conceived, built and tested to demonstrate feasibility of the air cushion ship concept specifically with propeller propulsion, and to provide the essential design information for larger ships. This paper summarizes how the program objectives of high speed, efficient performance and good seakeeping characteristics resulted in the SES‐100B Surface Effect Ship. High lift‐drag ratio, low structural weight, efficient lift and propulsion, coupled with good seakeeping and handling qualities, have necessitated unique approaches to ship design to meet these objectives. How these requirements have been translated into hardware and the final verification in terms of full‐scale SES‐100B trials data are presented and summarized for future development of the Surface Effect Ship.
TRANSIM‐A GENERAL PURPOSE PROBLEM SOLVING TOOL
Authors: McMICHAEL DAVID L. , ORLEANS BEATRICE S.
Published: March 2009

This paper describes TRANSIM simulation a a method for solving problems. There is a brief discussion of modeling and its importance. TRANSIM is compared with other general purpose simulators, special purpose simulation, and network analysis techniques such as PERT/CPM. Data requirements for TRANSIM applications are discussed, and a few examples of specific Navy applications are described in a general fashion. In conclusion, the paper details the latest TRANSIM development work in project analysis and output formats for project risk, resource allocation and scheduling.
Trends in Submarine Structures R & D
Authors: MALAKHOFF ALEXANDER , BERNSTEIN HARVEY M.
Published: March 2009

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current developments affecting the state‐of‐the‐art of submarine structures. These developments are compared with the past achievements of submarine structures R&D programs. The paper includes a brief history of submarine structures' development for the purpose of providing the reader with a necessary background for the subject discussed therein. The main portion of the paper is devoted to the trends in submarine structures R&D and covers topics such as: a) computerized analysis and mathematical modeling; b) development and testing of structural models; c) discussion of the types of loadings which must be considered in submarine design (hydrostatic, dynamic, cyclic, acoustic, etc.); and d) implication of new materials, fabrication, certification, welding techniques, modular construction concepts, etc.

Since the submarine hull structure is one of the subsystems of the overall submarine, it should be fully compatible with the requirements dictated by the interfaces with the other submarine systems. In this regard, this paper addresses this factor which hitherto was not fully recognized in structural R&D programs; that is, that developments frequently proceeded at their own “pace” without regard to the ultimate utility of the results and the impact of these results on the other subsystems. Discussion in this area covers the processes for “integrating” structural subsystems into a viable submarine system. Also, a brief mention of the “system oriented R&D management” is provided.

In recognition of the classified nature of some of the data related to submarine structures, this paper utilizes only the information available in general literature, news media, and unclassified Navy sources.