bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A general fractional-order dynamical network: Synchronization behavior and state tuning
Authors: Wang Junwei , Xiong Xiaohua
Published: April 2012

A general fractional-order dynamical network model for synchronization behavior is proposed. Different from previous integer-order dynamical networks, the model is made up of coupled units described by fractional differential equations, where the connections between individual units are nondiffusive and nonlinear. We show that the synchronous behavior of such a network cannot only occur, but also be dramatically different from the behavior of its constituent units. In particular, we find that simple behavior can emerge as synchronized dynamics although the isolated units evolve chaotically. Conversely, individually simple units can display chaotic attractors when the network synchronizes. We also present an easily checked criterion for synchronization depending only on the eigenvalues distribution of a decomposition matrix and the fractional orders. The analytic results are complemented with numerical simulations for two networks whose nodes are governed by fractional-order Lorenz dynamics and fractional-order Rössler dynamics, respectively.
Unified derivation of exact solutions for a class of quasi-exactly solvable models
Authors: Agboola Davids , Zhang Yao-Zhong
Published: April 2012

We present a unified treatment of exact solutions for a class of four quantum mechanical models, namely, the anharmonic singular potential, the generalized quantum isotonic oscillator, the soft-core Coulomb potential, and the non-polynomially modified oscillator. We show that all four cases are reducible to the same basic ordinary differential equation, which is quasi-exactly solvable. A systematic and closed form solution to the basic equation is obtained via the Bethe ansatz method. Using the result, general exact expressions for the energies and the allowed potential parameters are given explicitly for each of the four cases in terms of the roots of a set of algebraic equations. A hidden sl(2) algebraic structure is also discovered in these models.
Multiple scattering of ultra-high frequency electromagnetic waves by two plasma cylinders
Authors: Xiao-po Wu , Jia-ming Shi , Jia-chun Wang , Zhong-cai Yuan , Bo Xu , Da-peng Zhao , Zong-sheng Chen , Zhi-dan Lin
Published: April 2012

Multiple scattering of ultrahigh frequency (UHF) electromagnetic waves by two argon plasma cylinders is investigated, rigorously applying the boundary value method. The results are verified and validated with the method of moments. Approximate expressions for the far field, taking into account the interaction between the plasma cylinders, are derived briefly after some mathematical manipulations. Numerical results are presented for the case of E-polarized UHF incidence with varied striking angles and different separation distances between the cylinders; comparisons of the scattering distributions are given in detail as well. It is found that the interaction between the plasma cylinders plays a non-negligible role in scattered energy redistributing, which is useful in the future research of intelligent plasma antennas.
Analytical models of approximations for wave functions and energy dispersion in zigzag graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Moradinasab Mahdi , Nematian Hamed , Pourfath Mahdi , Fathipour Morteza , Kosina Hans
Published: April 2012

In this work, we present analytical solutions for the wave functions and energy dispersion of zigzag graphene nanoribbons. A nearest neighbor tight-binding model is employed to describe the electronic band structure of graphene nanoribbons. However, an exact analytical solution for the dispersion relation and the wave functions of zigzag nanoribbons cannot be obtained. We propose two approximations of the discrete energies, which are valid for a wide range of nanoribbon indices. Employing these models, selection rules for optical transitions and optical properties of zigzag graphene nanoribbons are studied.
High temperature x ray diffraction measurements on Ge/Si(001) heterostructures: A study on the residual tensile strain
Authors: Capellini G. , De Seta M. , Zaumseil P. , Kozlowski G. , Schroeder T.
Published: April 2012

Ge/Si(001) heterostructures grown by means of ultrahigh vacuum chemical vapor deposition have been investigated by means of variable temperature high resolution x ray diffraction in order to investigate the origin of the residual tensile strain observed in this system. To this purpose, we have simultaneously measured the in- and out-of-plane lattice parameters of the deposited Ge films and of the underlying Si substrate, thus allowing us to directly measure the Ge strain evolution as the epilayer was annealed up to and over the deposition temperature and cooled back to room temperature. We have observed that the tensile strain, resulting from the different Si and Ge thermal expansion coefficient, is partially compensated by the residual compressive heteroepitaxial strain, due to the hardening limit of Ge. This limited the tensile strain observable in these heterostructures to ∼0.002.
Effect of silver addition on structural, electrical and magnetic properties of Fe3O4 thin films prepared by pulsed laser deposition
Authors: Master Ridhi , Choudhary R. J. , Phase D. M.
Published: April 2012

The structural, electrical, and magnetic properties of Agx-(Fe3O4)1−x (x = 0, 0.02, 0.10) composite films were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), resistivity as well as magnetization measurements. The samples used in the present work were prepared by the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique on a single crystal Si (111) substrate. XRD spectra reveal that Ag added samples show polycrystalline growth on the Si substrate in distinction to oriented growth of Fe3O4 on a similar substrate. XRD and XPS data confirm that silver is present in metallic form. Temperature dependent resistivity data corresponding to all the three samples show a characteristic Verway transition (Tv) around 121 K. However, the resistivity pattern of the Ag added sample with x = 0.10 shows the tunneling behavior below Tv, which is attributed to the accumulation of silver clusters across the boundary of Fe3O4 grains. Both Ag added (x = 0.02, 0.10) Fe3O4 films show positive magnetoresistance which is in contrast to negative magnetoresistance observed in pure Fe3O4 at room temperature. Magnetization measurements reveal that Ag granules reduce the saturation magnetization of Fe3O4.
Atomic layer deposited Al2O3 passivation of type II InAs/GaSb superlattice photodetectors
Authors: Salihoglu Omer , Muti Abdullah , Kutluer Kutlu , Tansel Tunay , Turan Rasit , Kocabas Coskun , Aydinli Atilla
Published: April 2012

Taking advantage of the favorable Gibbs free energies, atomic layer deposited (ALD) aluminum oxide (Al2O3) was used as a novel approach for passivation of type II InAs/GaSb superlattice (SL) midwave infrared (MWIR) single pixel photodetectors in a self cleaning process (λcut-off ∼ 5.1 μm). Al2O3 passivated and unpassivated diodes were compared for their electrical and optical performances. For passivated diodes, the dark current density was improved by an order of magnitude at 77 K. The zero bias responsivity and detectivity was 1.33 A/W and 1.9 × 1013 Jones, respectively at 4 μm and 77 K. Quantum efficiency (QE) was determined as %41 for these detectors. This conformal passivation technique is promising for focal plane array (FPA) applications.
Dispersion of carbon nanocapsules by using highly aspect-ratio clays
Authors: Lan Yi-Fen , Cheng Szu-Chiao
Published: April 2012

The poor solubility of zero-dimensional nanomaterials can be greatly improved by using two-dimensional nanomaterials as a dispersant. The solubility of nano-spherical carbon nanocapsules (CNCs) was improved by using platelet-like clays. Three clays including synthetic fluorinated mica (Mica), sodium montmorillonite, and synthetic smectite were selected for assist CNCs to disperse in several solvents. The aspect ratios of clays were calculated by dimension over thickness, and the results revealed that the aspect ratio is the dominated factor to control the dispersion of CNCs in solvents.
Ge out diffusion effect on SiGe nanoring formation
Authors: Tu W.-H. , Huang S.-H. , Liu C. W.
Published: April 2012

Based on atomic force microscopy, high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy, Ge outdiffusion effects on SiGe quantum dots to form nanorings are studied using the ultrahigh vacuum chemical vapor deposition. The epitaxial Si layer grown on quantum dots with SiH4 and H2 precursors cannot cover the whole quantum dots, and the central area is passivated by the hydrogen. After annealing longer than 1 h at 500 °C in vacuum, the Ge atoms at the central area of quantum dots diffuse outward to form nanorings. However, the epitaxial Si layer grown with SiH4 and He precursors can cap all over the quantum dots, and the Si cap layer retards the Ge outdiffusion at the central area of quantum dots, resulting in 4 h annealing time. Moreover, for the uncapped quantum dots, the annealing in H2 also prevents the Ge outdiffusion at the central area and no nanorings are observed up to 5 h annealing at 500 °C.
First-principles study of Ge dangling bonds with different oxygen backbonds at Ge/GeO2 interface
Authors: Chang H.-C. , Lu S.-C. , Chou T.-P. , Lin C.-M. , Liu C. W.
Published: April 2012

Calculations based on the density functional theory predict the formation of gap states near the Ge conduction-band minimum, due to the presence of the dangling bonds of Ge1+ and Ge2+ atoms at the Ge/GeO2 interface. Additionally, gap states near the valence-band maximum appear in the presence of threefold Ge0+ dangling bonds at the Ge/GeO2 interface. To further discuss the electrical property of the GeO2 near the interface, the oxygen-vacancy-related defect in GeO2 is calculated with bulk oxide structure. The result shows that the thermodynamical-transition level of +2/0 is 5.11 eV above the valence-band maximum of GeO2. The high transition level energy indicates the +2 charge state is a possible source for positive fixed-charges in defective GeO2.
Phosphorus and calcium retention in steers fed a roughage diet is influenced by dietary 25OH-vitamin D
Authors: McGrath J. J. , Savage D. B. , Nolan J. V. , Elliott R.
Published: April 2012

Active absorption of phosphorus (P) from the alimentary tract is promoted by increased concentrations of active vitamin D [1,25(OH)2D3] in blood; however, the production of this active vitamin is determined by plasma concentrations of calcium (Ca) and not P. As a consequence, diets of adequate Ca content, but insufficient P, will not promote active P absorption. Dietary supplements of 25OH-vitamin D (25OHD), the precursor of 1,25(OH)2D3, may stimulate P absorption and P retention of ruminants consuming diets marginally deficient in P. To evaluate this hypothesis, steers (n = 18) were fed a pelleted low-quality roughage diet containing an adequate Ca concentration (0.68%). Nine steers received a supplement of 25OHD mixed into their feed, at a rate of 3.25 mg/head.day, before pelleting. The other nine steers were fed the Control diet without supplementation. All steers were individually housed for 10 days before being moved into metabolism crates for a further 3-day period. The steers which received the diet containing 25OHD exhibited increased retention of P and Ca, ~4 and 3 g/day, respectively. Blood samples were taken before the adaptation period and then daily during the period in the metabolism crates. Plasma concentrations of both P and Ca were increased by 25OHD supplementation throughout the collection period. Addition of 25OHD to the diet of grazing animals may reduce the need for P supplementation programs and improve productivity.
Negotiating discursive norms
Authors: Van De Mieroop Dorien , Bevilacqua Giovanni , Hove Lotte Van
Published: April 2012

In spite of the theoretically clearly defined task of an interpreter to translate only what was said by the other interlocutors, naturally occurring data taken from interpreted interactions show quite a different picture, as many previous studies have already indicated. The discursive norms to which an interpreter orients in reality are interactionally negotiated, rather than prediscursively determined. This article analyses these norms as interactional accomplishments in interpreted interactions that took place in a Belgian home for the elderly. This is not only a setting in which community interpreting has not been studied so far, but it is also a context that is ideally suited for this research topic, since its discursive institutional norms are not as strictly defined as in many other institutional settings, thus implying room for negotiating discursive norms on a turn-by-turn basis. The results demonstrate significant variation in the way breaches of interpreting norms are dealt with, both by the interpreter and by the professional, with the latter playing a particularly important role in shaping the norms that are observed in the course of the interaction. Finally, the implications of these deviations for the particular ‘activity type’ and the interpreter’s situated identity are discussed.
The use of reported speech by court interpreters in Hong Kong
Authors: Cheung Andrew K. F
Published: April 2012

This is a corpus-based study that investigates instances in which court interpreters in Hong Kong deviate from using direct speech and the first person, notwithstanding the requirement to use both of these when rendering statements made by witnesses or defendants. Quantitative data indicate that court interpreters do adhere to this requirement when interpreting Cantonese into English, but deviate from it when interpreting English into Cantonese. These data suggest that the use of reported speech and/or of the third person has identification functions that help Cantonese-speaking witnesses and defendants follow court proceedings and serve the pragmatic function of adding illocutionary force to interpreted utterances. Data from interviews with interpreters and legal professionals suggest that some latitude is exercised and tolerated when interpreters deviate from using direct speech and/or the first person when the target language is Cantonese. The findings indicate that court interpreters in the corpus observe strict professional guidelines by using direct speech most of the time, but occasional deviation from the direct approach suggests that court interpreters are able to make discretionary decisions to facilitate communication.
The C-terminal domain of Fcj1 is required for formation of crista junctions and interacts with the TOB/SAM complex in mitochondria
Authors: Körner Christian , Barrera Miguel , Dukanovic Jovana , Eydt Katharina , Harner Max , Rabl Regina , Vogel Frank , Rapaport Doron , Neupert Walter , Reichert Andreas S.
Published: April 2012

Crista junctions (CJs) are tubular invaginations of the inner membrane of mitochondria that connect the inner boundary with the cristae membrane. These architectural elements are critical for mitochondrial function. The yeast inner membrane protein Fcj1, called mitofilin in mammals, was reported to be preferentially located at CJs and crucial for their formation. Here we investigate the functional roles of individual domains of Fcj1. The most conserved part of Fcj1, the C-terminal domain, is essential for Fcj1 function. In its absence, formation of CJ is strongly impaired and irregular, and stacked cristae are present. This domain interacts with full-length Fcj1, suggesting a role in oligomer formation. It also interacts with Tob55 of the translocase of outer membrane β-barrel proteins (TOB)/sorting and assembly machinery (SAM) complex, which is required for the insertion of β-barrel proteins into the outer membrane. The association of the TOB/SAM complex with contact sites depends on the presence of Fcj1. The biogenesis of β-barrel proteins is not significantly affected in the absence of Fcj1. However, down-regulation of the TOB/SAM complex leads to altered cristae morphology and a moderate reduction in the number of CJs. We propose that the C-terminal domain of Fcj1 is critical for the interaction of Fcj1 with the TOB/SAM complex and thereby for stabilizing CJs in close proximity to the outer membrane. These results assign novel functions to both the C-terminal domain of Fcj1 and the TOB/SAM complex.
Phosphatidylserine dynamics in cellular membranes
Authors: Kay Jason G. , Koivusalo Mirkka , Ma Xiaoxiao , Wohland Thorsten , Grinstein Sergio
Published: April 2012

Much has been learned about the role of exofacial phosphatidylserine (PS) in apoptosis and blood clotting using annexin V. However, because annexins are impermeant and unable to bind PS at low calcium concentration, they are unsuitable for intracellular use. Thus little is known about the topology and dynamics of PS in the endomembranes of normal cells. We used two new probes—green fluorescent protein (GFP)–LactC2, a genetically encoded fluorescent PS biosensor, and 1-palmitoyl-2-(dipyrrometheneboron difluoride)undecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-l-serine (TopFluor-PS), a synthetic fluorescent PS analogue—to examine PS distribution and dynamics inside live cells. The mobility of PS was assessed by a combination of advanced optical methods, including single-particle tracking and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy. Our results reveal the existence of a sizable fraction of PS with limited mobility, with cortical actin contributing to the confinement of PS in the plasma membrane. We were also able to measure the dynamics of PS in endomembrane organelles. By targeting GFP-LactC2 to the secretory pathway, we detected the presence of PS in the luminal leaflet of the endoplasmic reticulum. Our data provide new insights into properties of PS inside cells and suggest mechanisms to account for the subcellular distribution and function of this phospholipid.
Zooplankton population connections, community dynamics, and climate variability
Authors: Keister Julie E. , Bonnet Delphine , Chiba Sanae , Johnson Catherine L. , Mackas David L. , Escribano Ruben
Published: April 2012

Keister, J. E., Bonnet, D., Chiba, S., Johnson, C. L., Mackas, D. L., and Escribano, R. 2012. Zooplankton population connections, community dynamics, and climate variability. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 69: 347–350.
The highs and lows of theoretical interpretation in animal-metacognition research
Authors: Smith J. David , Couchman Justin J. , Beran Michael J.
Published: April 2012

Humans feel uncertain. They know when they do not know. These feelings and the responses to them ground the research literature on metacognition. It is a natural question whether animals share this cognitive capacity, and thus animal metacognition has become an influential research area within comparative psychology. Researchers have explored this question by testing many species using perception and memory paradigms. There is an emerging consensus that animals share functional parallels with humans’ conscious metacognition. Of course, this research area poses difficult issues of scientific inference. How firmly should we hold the line in insisting that animals’ performances are low-level and associative? How high should we set the bar for concluding that animals share metacognitive capacities with humans? This area offers a constructive case study for considering theoretical problems that often confront comparative psychologists. The authors present this case study and address diverse issues of scientific judgement and interpretation within comparative psychology.
Metacognition in human decision-making: confidence and error monitoring
Authors: Yeung Nick , Summerfield Christopher
Published: April 2012

People are capable of robust evaluations of their decisions: they are often aware of their mistakes even without explicit feedback, and report levels of confidence in their decisions that correlate with objective performance. These metacognitive abilities help people to avoid making the same mistakes twice, and to avoid overcommitting time or resources to decisions that are based on unreliable evidence. In this review, we consider progress in characterizing the neural and mechanistic basis of these related aspects of metacognition—confidence judgements and error monitoring—and identify crucial points of convergence between methods and theories in the two fields. This convergence suggests that common principles govern metacognitive judgements of confidence and accuracy; in particular, a shared reliance on post-decisional processing within the systems responsible for the initial decision. However, research in both fields has focused rather narrowly on simple, discrete decisions—reflecting the correspondingly restricted focus of current models of the decision process itself—raising doubts about the degree to which discovered principles will scale up to explain metacognitive evaluation of real-world decisions and actions that are fluid, temporally extended, and embedded in the broader context of evolving behavioural goals.
Higher order thoughts in action: consciousness as an unconscious re-description process
Authors: Timmermans Bert , Schilbach Leonhard , Pasquali Antoine , Cleeremans Axel
Published: April 2012

Metacognition is usually construed as a conscious, intentional process whereby people reflect upon their own mental activity. Here, we instead suggest that metacognition is but an instance of a larger class of representational re-description processes that we assume occur unconsciously and automatically. From this perspective, the brain continuously and unconsciously learns to anticipate the consequences of action or activity on itself, on the world and on other people through three predictive loops: an inner loop, a perception–action loop and a self–other (social cognition) loop, which together form a tangled hierarchy. We ask what kinds of mechanisms may subtend this form of enactive metacognition. We extend previous neural network simulations and compare the model with signal detection theory, highlighting that while the latter approach assumes that both type I (objective) and type II (subjective, metacognition-based) decisions tap into the same signal at different hierarchical levels, our approach is closer to dual-route models in which it is assumed that the re-descriptions made possible by the emergence of meta-representations occur independently and outside of the first-order causal chain. We close by reviewing relevant neurological evidence for the idea that awareness, self-awareness and social cognition involve the same mechanisms.
Failures of metacognition and lack of insight in neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: David Anthony S. , Bedford Nicholas , Wiffen Ben , Gilleen James
Published: April 2012

Lack of insight or unawareness of illness are the hallmarks of many psychiatric disorders, especially schizophrenia (SCZ) and other psychoses and could be conceived of as a failure in metacognition. Research in this area in the mental health field h as burgeoned with the development and widespread use of standard assessment instruments and the mapping out of the clinical and neuropsychological correlates of insight and its loss. There has been a growing appreciation of the multi-faceted nature of the concept and of the different ‘objects’ of insight, such as the general awareness that one is ill, to more specific metacognitive awareness of individual symptoms, impairments and performance. This in turn has led to the notion that insight may show modularity and may fractionate across different domains and disorders, supported by work that directly compares metacognition of memory deficits and illness awareness in patients with SCZ, Alzheimer's disease and brain injury. The focus of this paper will be on the varieties of metacognitive failure in psychiatry, particularly the psychoses. We explore cognitive models based on self-reflectiveness and their possible social and neurological bases, including data from structural and functional MRI. The medial frontal cortex appears to play an important role in self-appraisal in health and disease.
Metacognition: computation, biology and function
Authors: Fleming Stephen M. , Dolan Raymond J. , Frith Christopher D.
Published: April 2012

Many complex systems maintain a self-referential check and balance. In animals, such reflective monitoring and control processes have been grouped under the rubric of metacognition. In this introductory article to a Theme Issue on metacognition, we review recent and rapidly progressing developments from neuroscience, cognitive psychology, computer science and philosophy of mind. While each of these areas is represented in detail by individual contributions to the volume, we take this opportunity to draw links between disciplines, and highlight areas where further integration is needed. Specifically, we cover the definition, measurement, neurobiology and possible functions of metacognition, and assess the relationship between metacognition and consciousness. We propose a framework in which level of representation, order of behaviour and access consciousness are orthogonal dimensions of the conceptual landscape.
A computational framework for the study of confidence in humans and animals
Authors: Kepecs Adam , Mainen Zachary F.
Published: April 2012

Confidence judgements, self-assessments about the quality of a subject's knowledge, are considered a central example of metacognition. Prima facie, introspection and self-report appear the only way to access the subjective sense of confidence or uncertainty. Contrary to this notion, overt behavioural measures can be used to study confidence judgements by animals trained in decision-making tasks with perceptual or mnemonic uncertainty. Here, we suggest that a computational approach can clarify the issues involved in interpreting these tasks and provide a much needed springboard for advancing the scientific understanding of confidence. We first review relevant theories of probabilistic inference and decision-making. We then critically discuss behavioural tasks employed to measure confidence in animals and show how quantitative models can help to constrain the computational strategies underlying confidence-reporting behaviours. In our view, post-decision wagering tasks with continuous measures of confidence appear to offer the best available metrics of confidence. Since behavioural reports alone provide a limited window into mechanism, we argue that progress calls for measuring the neural representations and identifying the computations underlying confidence reports. We present a case study using such a computational approach to study the neural correlates of decision confidence in rats. This work shows that confidence assessments may be considered higher order, but can be generated using elementary neural computations that are available to a wide range of species. Finally, we discuss the relationship of confidence judgements to the wider behavioural uses of confidence and uncertainty.
DNA mobility shift assay as a tool for the detection of anti‐dsDNA antibodies in sera from discoid lupus erythematosus patients
Authors: KEYHANI Jacqueline , AHADI Mashallah , KEYHANI Ezzatollah , NARAGHI Zahra , SHAMOHAMMADI Safar
Published: April 2012

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a form of local inflammatory autoimmune disease limited to the skin, involving essentially the face, scalp and ear. DLE occurs in genetically predisposed individuals, sunlight being an identified trigger. Diagnosis is made by clinical examination and histopathology; laboratory tests occasionally performed include anti‐nuclear antibodies titers and presence of circulating antibodies against dsDNA. DLE patients have about a 10% chance of developing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease affecting a range of internal organs. Although elevated titers of anti‐dsDNA antibodies is an earmark for lupus disease, they are detected in only 20–55% of DLE patients by routine laboratory tests such as enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In this research, we applied an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) in parallel with an ELISA for the detection of circulating anti‐dsDNA in DLE patients. The assays were conducted on sera as well as on the immunoglobulin G fraction from sera of 24 DLE patients and of 24 healthy individuals. The EMSA was positive for all DLE patients while the ELISA was positive for only 36% of them; both assays were negative for the healthy individuals. EMSA conducted on the sera of 15 patients with lichen planus was negative in all cases. Results suggest that the EMSA is more sensitive than the routine tests used for the detection of anti‐dsDNA in DLE, thus helping to improve early detection of the disease and, by extension, to better evaluate the factors triggering the disease.
Non‐Helicobacter pylori gastritis is common among paediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Genta R. M. , Sonnenberg A.
Published: April 2012

Background

Helicobacter‐negative gastritis and duodenitis occur more often in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) than in non‐IBD controls. Preliminary evidence suggests that they are particularly common among children.

Aim

To study the age‐specific occurrence of gastritis and duodenitis among paediatric IBD patients.

Methods

From a computerised database of surgical pathology reports, we selected 344 IBD patients and 4241 non‐IBD controls between the age 0 and 21 years, who underwent colonoscopy and oesophago‐gastro‐duodenoscopy with biopsy results from both procedures.

Results

Helicobacter‐negative chronic active gastritis was found in 2% of controls and 20% of IBD patients (Crohn's disease (CD) 26%, ulcerative colitis (UC) 13%). Duodenitis was found in 2% of controls and 17% of IBD patients (Crohn's disease 28%, UC 8%). Similar prevalence rates were observed in male and female patients. The most striking age‐specific patterns were seen in Crohn's disease, with chronic active gastritis being highest in the 5–9 years age‐group and declining in all subsequent age‐groups. The age‐specific rise and fall of duodenitis appeared more protracted, reaching a peak at age 10–14 years and then gradually declining.

Conclusions

Helicobacter‐negative gastritis and duodenitis occur significantly more often in paediatric IBD patients than in non‐IBD controls, as well as in adult IBD patients. Such upper gastrointestinal inflammation appears to be particularly common in patients with Crohn's disease.
Monitoring neutrophils and platelets during casein‐induced anaphylaxis in an experimental BALB/c mouse model
Authors: Krishnamurthy D. , Starkl P. , Szalai K. , Roth‐Walter F. , Diesner S. C. , Mittlboeck M. , Mannhalter C. , Untersmayr E. , Jensen‐Jarolim E.
Published: April 2012

Background

With respect to the cellular players, mast cells and basophils have been well studied in experimental murine systemic anaphylaxis models, but the role of neutrophils and platelets is not fully understood today.

Objective

We tested the hypothesis that neutrophils and platelets might participate in an antigen‐induced anaphylaxis model.

Methods

BALB/c mice were sensitized intraperitoneally with alum‐adsorbed casein. A period of 2 weeks later, mice were challenged with 100 μg casein intravenously and immediate hypersensitivity reactions were assessed by rectal temperature measurements and monitoring the physical activity. Subsequently, leucocytes were counted in the peripheral blood as well as quantified in situ in typical shock organs like lung, liver and spleen, heart and kidney.

Results

Mice sensitized with casein showed casein‐specific IgG1, IgE, and IgG2a. When sensitized mice were specifically challenged with casein they developed immediate hypersensitivity reactions including drop of temperature and reduced activity. Furthermore, pronounced peripheral neutropenia and reduced platelet counts correlated with the severity of the hypersensitivity reactions. In the histological analyses of collected tissues we observed lung interstitial neutrophilia using Gr‐1 staining. These events occurred specifically in mice sensitized and challenged with casein, in contrast to control groups.

Conclusions

On the basis of our data we suggest that in addition to mast cells and basophils, neutrophils and platelets participate in the anaphylactic response in this BALB/c mouse model. Platelet and neutrophils expressing relevant immunoglobulin receptors may therefore have a synergistic effect with allergen specific IgE as well as IgG antibodies in food‐induced anaphylaxis. We suggest that management of these cells could be of clinical importance to handle anaphylaxis.
‘Omics’‐driven discoveries in prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Gjesing Anette P. , Pedersen Oluf
Published: April 2012

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (6): 579–588

Glucose‐based methods are currently gold standards for identifying individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes. Obviously, these methods only consider one of many pathologies of impaired glucose metabolism and they all suffer from a poor specificity as type 2 diabetes risk assessment tools. Recently, however, panels of multiple biomarkers reflecting several pre‐diabetic pathologies have been developed. Their specificity and potentials for future risk stratification are discussed. As a multifactorial disorder type 2 diabetes calls for a multifactorial treatment approach targeting multiple but modifiable vascular risk factors. The same holds for pre‐diabetic states and prevention hereof. In addition, type 2 diabetes and pre‐diabetes show major heterogeneity between affected individuals in pathology, risk of organ damages, progression rate and responsiveness to treatment or prevention. Despite the heterogeneity and uniqueness of type 2 diabetes and pre‐diabetes most affected individuals are currently offered interventions as if they all have the same disease or risk of disease and will respond similarly. The complex origin and course of type 2 diabetes combined with uniformity and non‐specificity of current interventions may explain the high rate of treatment failures and the relative poor prognosis of many diabetes patients. Given this situation, the present review also explores the perspectives of selected examples within applied genomics and metagenomics for improving patient care by facilitating interventions tailored to specific subpopulations.
Microsatellite DNA analysis and hydrodynamic modelling reveal the extent of larval transport and gene flow between management zones in an exploited marine fish (Glaucosoma hebraicum)
Authors: BERRY OLIVER , ENGLAND PHILLIP , FAIRCLOUGH DAVID , JACKSON GARY , GREENWOOD JIM
Published: April 2012

Determining the extent of dispersal in exploited marine fishes is essential for understanding their population dynamics and optimising management. The West Australian dhufish, Glaucosoma hebraicum, is a highly sought‐after, large and long‐lived reef‐dwelling species, endemic to south‐western Australia. Stock assessments indicate that this indicator species is overexploited. The fishery is managed using a zone‐based system, which implicitly assumes a high degree of demographic independence among zones. While tagging studies indicate limited movement of adult G. hebraicum, there is no understanding of the spatial scale of dispersal of its larvae and thus the true extent of interdependence of management zones. We analysed 13 microsatellite DNA loci to characterise the extent of gene flow, and conducted particle tracking simulations to model larval transport in this species. Genetic data demonstrated that some local recruitment was likely, but that on a broad scale gene flow between the management zones was extensive, and the entire fishery represents a single genetic stock. Hydrodynamic modelling predicted that the majority of dhufish larvae recruit from within the management zone where they are spawned, and that inter‐annual variation in current velocities has limited effect on the extent of larval transport. Because management zones are likely to be largely independent in terms of both larval and adult recruitment, heavy localised fishing pressure has the potential to reduce the abundance and reproductive capacity of this species in highly fished areas, but it should have limited impact on neutral genetic diversity.
Pleiotropic functions of pre‐B‐cell colony‐enhancing factor (PBEF) revealed by transcriptomics of human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells treated with PBEFsiRNA
Authors: Cheranova Dilyara , Gibson Margaret , Kibiryeva Nataliya , Zhang Li Q. , Ye Shui Q.
Published: April 2012

This study profiled transcriptomes of human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC‐L) treated with pre‐B‐cell colony‐enhancing factor (PBEF) siRNA or scrambled RNA to gain insight into transcriptional regulations of PBEF on the endothelial function using the Affymetrix GeneChips HG‐U133 plus 2. Several important themes are emerged from this study. First, PBEF affected expressions of multiple genes in the endothelium. Expression of 373 genes was increased and 64 genes decreased by at least 1.3‐fold in the PBEFsiRNA‐treated HMVEC‐L versus the scramble RNA control. Second, the microarray results confirmed previous reports of PBEF‐mediated gene expressions in some pathways but provided a more complete repertoire of molecules in those pathways. Third, most of the affected canonical pathways have not previously been reported to be PBEF responsive. Fourth, network analysis supports that PBEF has pleiotropic functions. Our first transcriptome analysis of human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells treated with PBEFsiRNA has provided important insights into the transcriptional regulation of gene expression in HMVEC‐L cells by PBEF. Further in‐depth analysis of these transcriptional regulations may shed light on molecular mechanisms underlying PBEF‐mediated endothelial functions and dysfunctions in various diseases and provide new leads of therapeutic targets to those diseases.
Global environmental change and the biology of heritage structures
Authors: Viles Heather A. , Cutler Nick A.
Published: April 2012

Whilst global environmental change in the 21st century will undoubtedly have direct impacts on built heritage, it will also have important indirect effects through its influence on microbial, plant and animal life on heritage sites. Environmental change will affect both the structure of biotic communities and the function of such communities. Both impacts will, in turn, influence the deterioration and conservation of heritage sites. Changes in precipitation will exert a major, but as yet poorly understood, control on heritage biotas, whilst changes in atmospheric composition may also be important. Climatic changes will cause range shifts for some taxa, further influencing community composition. Whilst there are many unknowns, making prediction difficult, some scenarios can be proposed based on ecological response to stress and disturbance. This approach indicates some ‘hotspots’ at risk of experiencing dramatic shifts in biotic communities and their impacts, which may switch from biodeteriogenic to bioprotective or vice versa. Such hotspots include vulnerable sandstone and limestone heritage structures in areas of the Mediterranean, Middle East, Caribbean and Southern Africa.
Interleukin 1 gene cluster SNPs (rs1800587, rs1143634) influences post‐orthodontic root resorption in endodontic and their contralateral vital control teeth differently
Authors: Iglesias‐Linares A. , Yañez‐Vico R. M. , Ballesta S. , Ortiz‐Ariza E. , Mendoza‐Mendoza A. , Perea E. , Solano‐Reina E.
Published: April 2012

Iglesias‐Linares A, Yañez‐Vico RM, Ballesta S, Ortiz‐Ariza E, Mendoza‐Mendoza A, Perea E, Solano‐Reina E.Interleukin 1 gene cluster SNPs (rs1800587, rs1143634) influences post‐orthodontic root resorption in endodontic and their contralateral vital control teeth differently.International Endodontic Journal, 45, 1018–1026, 2012.

Aim To investigate whether the genetic variants of the interleukin‐1 gene cluster (IL1) are associated with a possible genetically induced variability in post‐orthodontic external apical root resorption (EARR) in root filled teeth and their control counterparts with vital pulps.

Methodology One hundred and forty‐six maxillary premolars were evaluated radiographically following orthodontic treatment. Genetic screening was performed on orthodontic patients for two single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs: rs1800587 and rs1143634) in theIL1gene cluster. Subjects were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of radiographic post‐orthodontic EARR (>2 mm) in root filled teeth and their controls with vital pulps. Logistic regression analysis was performed to obtain an adjusted estimation between EARR andIL1polymorphisms. Allelic frequencies, genotype distributions, and adjusted odds ratio (OR), at 95% confidence interval, were also calculated.

Results Whilst no clear statistical association was found for gene variations inIL1A, a sound association was found in the comparative analysis of subjects homozygous [2/2(TT)] for theIL1Bgene, which resulted in a two times increased risk of suffering post‐orthodontic EARR in root filled teeth [OR, 2.032 (P = 0.031); CI,1.99–14.77] when compared with their controls with vital pulps. There was, however, a shared predisposition to EARR in controls with vital pulps and root filled teeth of subjects homozygous for allele 1 [OR, 5.05 (P = 0.002)] and [OR, 2.77 (P = 0.037)], respectively.

Conclusions Genetic variations in the interleukin‐1β gene (rs1143634) predispose root filled teeth to EARR for matched pairs secondary to orthodontic treatment in a different way from their control teeth with vital pulps in subjects homozygous for allele 2 [2/2(TT)].
Expressive writing in early breast cancer survivors
Authors: Craft Melissa A. , Davis Gail C. , Paulson René M.
Published: April 2012

craft m.a., davis g.c. & paulson r.m. (2012) Expressive writing in early breast cancer survivors. Journal of Advanced Nursing69(2), 305–315. doi: 10.1111/j.1365‐2648.2012.06008.x.

Aims.  This article is the report of a study aimed at determining whether or not expressive writing improves the quality‐of‐life of early breast cancer survivors. An additional aim is the investigation of whether or not the type of writing prompt makes a difference in results.

Background.  The risk of distress can extend well beyond the time of a breast cancer diagnosis. Emotional expression may assist in dealing with this.

Design.  Randomized controlled study.

Methods.  Participants (n = 120) were randomized into one of four groups: a control group (no writing) or one of three expressive writing groups: breast cancer trauma, any self‐selected trauma and facts related to breast cancer. Participants wrote 20 minutes a day for 4 consecutive days. Their quality‐of‐life was measured, using the ‘Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Breast Cancer Version’, at baseline and at 1 month and 6 months after writing. Paired t‐tests, multivariate analysis of variance and multiple regression were used to analyse the data of the 97 participants who completed the journaling assignment and at least the first assessment, collected in 2006. Intention‐to‐treat analysis was used.

Results/findings.  Expressive writing about one’s breast cancer, breast cancer trauma and facts related to breast cancer, significantly improved the quality‐of‐life outcome.

Conclusion.  Expressive writing, focusing the instructions on writing about one’s living and dealing with a diagnosis of breast cancer, is recommended for early breast cancer survivors as a feasible and easily implemented treatment approach to improve quality‐of‐life.
In vitro glucuronidation of the angiotensin II receptor antagonist telmisartan in the cat: a comparison with other species
Authors: EBNER T , SCHÄNZLE G , WEBER W , SENT U , ELLIOTT J
Published: April 2012

Ebner, T., Schänzle, G., Weber, W., Sent, U., Elliott, J. In vitro glucuronidation of the angiotensin II receptor antagonist telmisartan in the cat: a comparison with other species. J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 36, 154–160.

Glucuronidation of telmisartan comprises nearly its entire metabolic clearance in several mammalian species including human. However, data were lacking for the cat, a species noted for its inability to glucuronidate some drugs. Therefore, the glucuronidation of telmisartan was investigated using feline liver microsomes and compared to liver microsomes of rats, dogs, and human, intestinal human microsomes and cell lines expressing human UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases (UGT). Incubation of telmisartan with cat liver microsomes readily yielded telmisartan glucuronide, and pooled (N = 3 for each gender) cat liver microsomes even showed the highest glucuronidation rate (cat > dog >> human > rat). Michaelis Menten kinetics were observed with Km of 7.5 and 10 μm and Vmax of 3.9 and 3.3 nmol/min/mg for male and female cats, respectively. Confirming the in vitro data, telmisartan glucuronide was detected as the major circulating metabolite in cat plasma. To elucidate which UGT enzymes are involved, telmisartan was incubated with cell lines expressing human UGTs. The highest glucuronidation activity was observed for UGT1A8, UGT1A7, and UGT1A9. In conclusion, telmisartan was effectively glucuronidated in cats. Defects of the UGT1A6 gene in cats do not affect the glucuronidation of telmisartan as it is not a substrate of human UGT1A6.
The successful introduction of the alpine marmot Marmota marmota in the Pyrenees, Iberian Peninsula, Western Europe
Authors: Barrio Isabel C. , Herrero Juan , Bueno C. Guillermo , López Bernat C. , Aldezabal Arantza , Campos‐Arceiz Ahimsa , García‐González Ricardo
Published: April 2012

The introduction of non‐native species can pose environmental and economic risks, but under some conditions, introductions can serve conservation or recreational objectives. To minimize risks, introductions should be conducted following the International Union for Conservation of Nature's guidelines and should include an initial assessment and a follow‐up.

In 1948, to reduce the predation pressure on Pyrenean chamois Rupicapra pyrenaica pyrenaica by golden eagles Aquila chrysaetos, the alpine marmot Marmota marmota was introduced to the Pyrenees in Western Europe. In successive introductions, about 500 marmots were released, but the fate of the released animals and their impacts on the environment remain largely unstudied.

The aim of this study was to assess the success of the introduction of the alpine marmot into the Pyrenees, 60 years after the initial release, and the potential impacts of this species on Pyrenean ecosystems.

We reviewed what is known about the marmot populations introduced to the Pyrenees and other populations within their native range in the Alps, particularly in terms of population structure and dynamics, habitat use and potential environmental impacts.

The alpine marmot is widely distributed and, apparently, well established in the Pyrenees. Population structure and demographic parameters are similar within and outside the historical distribution range of the species, and habitat suitability is one of the main reasons for the species' success in the Pyrenees. Few researchers have investigated the impacts of alpine marmots in the Pyrenees; thus, those impacts have to be inferred from those observed in the species' native range or in other species of marmot. Introduced alpine marmots are likely to impact on Pyrenean grasslands through grazing and burrowing, have the potential to alter Pyrenean food webs and could act as vectors of parasites and disease.

Although the introduction of the alpine marmot in the Pyrenees appears to have been successful, more needs to be known about the effects of the established populations on the environment before informed management actions can be taken in the Pyrenees.