bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nocturnal Regrets and Insomnia in Elderly People
Authors: Schmidt Ralph E. , Renaud Olivier , Van Der Linden Martial
Published: February 2012

Despite their importance for general health, emotion-related factors have rarely been considered in the etiology of late-life insomnia. This study explored the relations between impulsivity, regret experiences, use of different thought-control strategies, and insomnia severity in a sample of older adults whose age ranged from 51 to 98 years. Results revealed that: (a) regret frequency varies across the hours of the day, with a peak in the evening when people are trying to fall asleep; (b) individuals scoring high on impulsive urgency are particularly prone to experience nocturnal regrets; (c) nocturnal regrets are associated with insomnia severity, independently of other well-known risk factors such as depression, sleep-interfering medical conditions, and medications; and (d) the thought-control strategies of self-attacking, thought suppression, and worry are positively associated with the frequency of nocturnal regrets and insomnia severity. These findings indicate that dysfunctional regret regulation plays an important role for sleep disturbances in elderly people.
Type 2 Diabetes Science and American Indian/Alaska Native Culture: Creating a National K–12 Curriculum Prevention Strategy for Native Youth
Authors: Francis Carolee Dodge , Chino Michelle
Published: February 2012

In Brief

Preventing and reducing the onset of type 2 diabetes among American Indian/Alaska Native youth requires educational strategies to affect knowledge, attitudes, and cognitive decision-making skills. In an unparalleled effort to address the growing epidemic of type 2 diabetes in tribal communities, eight tribal colleges and three federal agencies collaborated to develop and implement a kindergarten-through-twelfth-grade (K–12) Diabetes Education in Tribal Schools curriculum. This article outlines the scientific and cultural development of a comprehensive K–12 science curriculum as a targeted health prevention strategy.
The Kidney as a Treatment Target for Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Dokken Betsy
Published: February 2012

Type 2 diabetes is a complex and progressive disease that affects 8.3% of the U.S. population. Despite the availability of numerous treatment options for type 2 diabetes, the proportion of patients achieving glycemic goals is unacceptably low; therefore, new pharmacotherapies are needed to promote glycemic control in these patients.

The kidney normally reabsorbs 99% of filtered glucose and returns it to the circulation. Glucose reabsorption by the kidney is mediated by sodium-glucose co-transporters (SGLTs), mainly SGLT2. SGLT2 inhibition presents an additional option to promote glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. A number of SGLT2 inhibitors have been synthesized and are in various stages of clinical development for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Results from clinical trials show that these compounds decrease plasma glucose and body weight in treatment-naive patients and in patients receiving metformin or insulin and insulin sensitizers. Overall, SGLT2 inhibitors appear to be generally well tolerated, but in some studies, signs, symptoms, and other reports of genital and urinary tract infections have been more frequent in drug-treated groups than in placebo groups.

Additional clinical trials will determine whether this class of compounds with a unique, insulin-independent mechanism of action becomes a treatment option for reducing hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes.
Influence of Post-cure Time on the Microhardness of Self-Adhesive Resin Cements Inside the Root Canal
Authors: Baena E , Fuentes MV , Garrido MA , Rodríguez J , Ceballos L
Published: February 2012

Purpose

To compare the microhardness of several dual-cure, self-adhesive resin cements used to lute fiber posts at 24 hours and seven days after cementation.

Methods

Bovine incisors were selected to lute 15 fiber posts that were 12 mm long (FRC Postec Plus size 3, Ivoclar-Vivadent). Five resin cements were tested: Multilink Automix (Ivoclar-Vivadent), without light-curing, and the self-adhesive resin cements Maxcem Elite (Kerr), RelyX Unicem (3M ESPE), G-Cem (GC), and Smartcem 2 (Dentsply), which were light-cured for 40 seconds (LED Bluephase, Ivoclar-Vivadent). Each root was embedded in chemically cured acrylic resin and stored at 37°C for 24 hours. The roots were transversally sectioned into nine specimens that were each 1 mm thick, with three specimens corresponding to each root third. Indentations (100g, 30 seconds) were performed on each section in the resin cement, at 24 hours and seven days after cementation, using a Vickers digital microdurometer (Buehler). Data were analyzed by two-way analysis of variance, Student-Newman-Keuls test, and paired t-test (p<0.05).

Results

A significant influence was found (p<0.05) for the resin cement evaluated, the root third, and their interactions on microhardness values at 24 hours and seven days after post cementation. RelyX Unicem and G-Cem exhibited the highest microhardness values, whereas Multilink Automix presented the lowest. All resin cements suffered a decrease in microhardness according to root canal depth, with the exception of G-Cem and Multilink Automix at 24 hours and Smartcem 2 after seven days. After seven days, the evaluated resin cements showed a significant increase in microhardness values, with the exception of Maxcem Elite and Smartcem 2 at the coronal third.

Conclusions

Microhardness of the self-adhesive resin cements when used to lute fiber posts was material-dependent and higher values were obtained in the coronal third, revealing their sensitivity to light irradiation. More information regarding the polymerization reaction of these cements is warranted. According to the current results, microhardness values were significantly higher one week after post luting.
Effect of Light Activation on Resin-modified Glass Ionomer Shear Bond Strength
Authors: Lawson NC , Cakir D , Beck P , Ramp L , Burgess JO
Published: February 2012

Objective

Recent studies confirmed that resin-modified glass ionomers (RMGIs) set on the basis of two competing mechanisms, an acid-base reaction and a light-activated resin polymerization. This study evaluated the effect of the setting mechanism on bond strength by measuring the shear bond strength of three RMGIs to dentin with and without light activation.

Methods

Sixty human molars were ground to midcoronal dentin and randomly divided into six even groups: 1) Ketac Nano (KN), 2) KN without light cure (woLC), 3) Fuji Filling LC (FF), 4) FF woLC, 5) Fuji II LC (FII), and 6) FII woLC. The dentin surfaces of the specimens were conditioned/primed according to the manufacturers' instructions. A 1.54-mm diameter plastic tube was filled with RMGI material and affixed to the dentin surface. Groups 1, 3, and 5 were light cured for 20 seconds, and groups 2, 4, and 6 were immediately placed in a damp dark box with no light curing at 37°C for 24 hours. Shear bond strength testing was performed in an Instron device at 1 mm/min. Data were analyzed with a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey/Kramer test (α=0.05).

Results

Mean ± standard deviation shear bond strength values (MPa) are: 7.1 ± 4.2 (KN), 11.7 ± 3.9 (FF), 10.2 ± 3.2 (FF woLC), 12.5 ± 5.1 (FII), and 0.3 ± 0.4 (FII woLC). Two KN, all KN woLC, and seven FII woLC specimens debonded before testing. Tukey/Kramer analysis revealed no significant differences in bond strength between the three light-cured RMGIs. KN and FII showed significantly lower bond strength without light cure, but no significant difference was observed between FF and FF woLC.

Conclusions

The results of this study strongly suggest that light activation is necessary to obtain optimal bond strength between RMGI and dentin. FF may contain components that chemically activate resin polymerization. Clinically, KN and FII need to be light cured after placement of these RMGIs.
Influence of Matrix Metalloproteinase Synthetic Inhibitors on Dentin Microtensile Bond Strength of Resin Cements
Authors: Stape THS , Menezes MS , Barreto BCF , Aguiar FHB , Martins LR , Quagliatto PS
Published: February 2012

This study evaluated the effect of dentin pretreatment with 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) or 24% ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid gel (EDTA) on the dentin microtensile bond strength (μTBS) of resin cements. Composite blocks were luted to superficial noncarious human dentin (n=10) using two resin cements (RelyX ARC [ARC] and RelyX U100 [U100]) and three dentin pretreatments (without pretreatment–control, CHX, and EDTA). CHX was applied for 60 seconds on the acid-etched dentin in the ARC/CHX group, and for the same time on smear layer-covered dentin in the U100/CHX group. EDTA was applied for 45 seconds on smear-covered dentin in the U100/EDTA group, and it replaced phosphoric acid conditioning in the ARC/EDTA group for 60 seconds. After storage in water for 24 hours, specimens were prepared for microtensile bond strength testing. The results were submitted to two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey test. ARC produced significantly higher μTBS (p<0.05) compared to the U100, except when EDTA was used. For ARC, no pretreatment and CHX produced higher μTBS than EDTA. For U100, EDTA produced higher μTBS; no statistical difference occurred between CHX pretreatment and when no pretreatment was performed. While CHX did not affect immediate dentin bond strength of both cements, EDTA improved bond strength of U100, but it reduced dentin bond strength of ARC.
Minimally Invasive Intervention in a Case of a Noncarious Lesion and Severe Loss of Tooth Structure
Authors: Reston EG , Corba VD , Broliato G , Saldini BP , Busato AL Stefanello
Published: February 2012

The present article describes a minimally invasive technique used for the restoration of loss of tooth structure caused by erosion of intrinsic etiology. First, the cause of erosion was treated and controlled. Subsequently, taking into consideration patient characteristics, especially a young age, a more conservative technique was chosen for dental rehabilitation with the use of composite resin. The advantages and disadvantages of the technique employed are discussed.
Subclinical tumor lysis-like syndrome during treatment of visceral leishmaniasis with low-dose intermittent liposomal amphotericin B
Authors: Georgiadou Sarah , Kontoyiannis Dimitrios , Sipsas Nikolaos
Published: February 2012

We retrospectively evaluated the rate of renal dysfunction during treatment with liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB) (3–4 mg/kg, for 7–10 days) in nine consecutive patients with visceral leishmaniasis (VL). During the first week of treatment, 5 patients (56%) experienced transient deterioration of renal function, with a rise in serum creatinine to 1.27–2.44 times the baseline level, and a parallel elevation of uric acid levels without other metabolic or electrolyte disturbances. Serum renal function parameters were restored to normal levels after the completion of therapy, on day 21. These 5 patients had presented with prolonged fever and/or significant spleen enlargement, reflecting high parasite load. This observation suggests that treatment of VL with intermittent L-AmB causes a subclinical tumor lysis-like syndrome, especially in patients with high parasite load.
Functional polymer thin films designed for antifouling materials and biosensors
Authors: Zhao Chao , Li Ling-Yan , Guo Ming-Ming , Zheng Jie
Published: February 2012

Polymer thin films offer a versatile and ubiquitous platform for a wide variety of real-world applications in biomedicine, nanotechnology, catalysis, photovoltaic devices, and energy conversion and storage. Depending on the chemical composition of the polymers and the associated microenvironment, the physicochemical properties (biocompatibility, stability, wettability, adhesion, morphology, surface free energy, and others) of polymer films can be tuned for a specific application through precisely controlled surface synthesis and the incorporation of desirable and responsive functional groups. In this short review, we first summarise the methods most commonly used for the fabrication of polymer thin films. Then we discuss how these polymer thin films can be used in a selection of biomedical applications in antifouling materials and biosensors. Some directions for the rational design of polymer thin films to achieve a specific function or application are also provided.
Quartz precipitation and fluid inclusion characteristics in sub-seafloor hydrothermal systems associated with volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits
Authors: Steele-MacInnis Matthew , Han Liang , Lowell Robert , Rimstidt J. , Bodnar Robert
Published: February 2012

Results of a numerical modeling study of quartz dissolution and precipitation in a sub-seafloor hydrothermal system have been used to predict where in the system quartz could be deposited and potentially trap fluid inclusions. The spatial distribution of zones of quartz dissolution and precipitation is complex, owing to the fact that quartz solubility depends on many inter-related factors, including temperature, fluid salinity and fluid immiscibility, and is further complicated by the fact that quartz exhibits both prograde and retrograde solubility behavior, depending on the fluid temperature and salinity. Using the PVTX properties of H2O-NaCl, the petrographic and microthermometric properties of fluid inclusions trapped at various locations within the hydrothermal system have been predicted. Vapor-rich inclusions are trapped as a result of the retrograde temperature-dependence of quartz solubility as the convecting fluid is heated in the vicinity of the magmatic heat source. Coexisting liquid-rich and vapor-rich inclusions are also trapped in this region when quartz precipitates as a result of fluid immiscibility that lowers the overall bulk quartz solubility in the system. Fluid inclusions trapped in the shallow subsurface near the seafloor vents and in the underlying stockwork are liquid-rich with homogenization temperatures of 200–400°C and salinities close to that of seawater. Volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposits represent the uplifted and partially eroded remnants of fossil submarine hydrothermal systems, and the relationship between fluid-inclusion properties and location within the hydrothermal system described here can be used in exploration for VMS deposits to infer the direction towards potential massive sulfide ore.
Application of the Linkam TS1400XY heating stage to melt inclusion studies
Authors: Esposito Rosario , Klebesz Rita , Bartoli Omar , Klyukin Yury , Moncada Daniel , Doherty Angela , Bodnar Robert
Published: February 2012

Melt inclusions (MI) trapped in igneous phenocrysts provide one of the best tools available for characterizing magmatic processes. Some MI experience post-entrapment modifications, including crystallization of material on the walls, formation of a vapor bubble containing volatiles originally dissolved in the melt, or partial to complete crystallization of the melt. In these cases, laboratory heating may be necessary to return the MI to its original homogeneous melt state, followed by rapid quenching of the melt to produce a homogeneous glass phase, before microanalyses can be undertaken.

Here we describe a series of heating experiments that have been performed on crystallized MI hosted in olivine, clinopyroxene and quartz phenocrysts, using the Linkam TS1400XY microscope heating stage. During the experiments, we have recorded the melting behaviors of the MI up to a maximum temperature of 1360°C. In most of the experiments, the MI were homogenized completely (without crystals or bubbles) and remained homogeneous during quenching to room temperature. The resulting single phase MI contained a homogeneous glass phase. These tests demonstrate the applicability of the Linkam TS1400XY microscope heating stage to homogenize and quench MI to produce homogeneous glasses that can be analyzed with various techniques such as Electron Microprobe (EMP), Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS), Laser ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA ICP-MS), Raman spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, etc.

During heating experiments, the optical quality varied greatly between samples and was a function of not only the temperature of observation, but also on the amount of matrix glass attached to the phenocryst, the presence of other MI in the sample which are connected to the outside of the crystal, and the existence of mineral inclusions in the host.
Modelling and measurement of polishing tool influence functions for edge control
Authors: Li Hongyu , Yu Guoyu , Walker David , Evans Rob
Published: February 2012

We present progress on our development of edge control for fabrication of mirror segments potentially for the European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT). Zeekoś Bonnet polishing technology has been adopted to achieve the form correction target. Like other Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) polishing, accurate and stable tool Influence Functions (IFs) are important. Particular challenges arisen when polishing up to edges where the geometry of the IFs created by a bonnet changes. We described a model based on measured IFs data that allowed us accurately to predict the edge profile. To obtain IFs at the edge, data from interferometers and profilometers have been stitched. Numerical models with empirical Ifs as input data have been used to predict edge profiles with some preliminary success.
Carbon Lock-Out: Advancing Renewable Energy Policy in Europe
Authors: Lehmann Paul , Creutzig Felix , Ehlers Melf-Hinrich , Friedrichsen Nele , Heuson Clemens , Hirth Lion , Pietzcker Robert
Published: February 2012

As part of its climate strategy, the EU aims at increasing the share of electricity from renewable energy sources (RES-E) in overall electricity generation. Attaining this target poses a considerable challenge as the electricity sector is “locked” into a carbon-intensive system, which hampers the adoption of RES-E technologies. Electricity generation, transmission and distribution grids as well as storage and demand response are subject to important path dependences, which put existing, non-renewable energy sources at an advantage. This paper examines how an EU framework for RES-E support policies should be designed to facilitate a carbon lock-out. For this purpose, we specify the major technological, economic and institutional barriers to RES-E. For each of the barriers, a policy review is carried out which assesses the performance of existing policy instruments and identifies needs for reform. The review reveals several shortcomings: while policies targeting generation are widely in place, measures to address barriers associated with electricity grids, storage and demand are still in their infancy and have to be extended. Moreover, the implementation of policies has been fragmented across EU Member States. In this respect, national policies should be embedded into an integrated EU-wide planning of the RES-E system with overarching energy scenarios and partially harmonized policy rules.
Knowledge of Health Effects and Intentions to Quit Among Smokers in India: Findings From the Tobacco Control Policy (TCP) India Pilot Survey
Authors: Sansone Genevieve C. , Raute Lalit J. , Fong Geoffrey T. , Pednekar Mangesh S. , Quah Anne C. K. , Bansal-Travers Maansi , Gupta Prakash C. , Sinha Dhirendra N.
Published: February 2012

Awareness of the health risks of smoking is an important factor in predicting smoking-related behaviour; however, little is known about the knowledge of health risks in low-income countries such as India. The present study examined beliefs about the harms of smoking and the impact of health knowledge on intentions to quit among a sample of 249 current smokers in both urban and rural areas in two states (Maharashtra and Bihar) from the 2006 TCP India Pilot Survey, conducted by the ITC Project. The overall awareness among smokers in India of the specific health risks of smoking was very low compared to other ITC countries, and only 10% of respondents reported that they had plans to quit in the next six months. In addition, smokers with higher knowledge were significantly more likely to have plans to quit smoking. For example, 26.2% of respondents who believed that smoking cause CHD and only 5.5% who did not believe that smoking causes CHD had intentions to quit (χ2 = 16.348, p < 0.001). Important differences were also found according to socioeconomic factors and state: higher levels of knowledge were found in Maharashtra than in Bihar, in urban compared to rural areas, among males, and among smokers with higher education. These findings highlight the need to increase awareness about the health risks of smoking in India, particularly in rural areas, where levels of education and health knowledge are lower.
Associations of Conifer-Infesting Bark Beetles and Fungi in Fennoscandia
Authors: Linnakoski Riikka , De Beer Z. Wilhelm , Niemelä Pekka , Wingfield Michael J.
Published: February 2012

Bark beetles (Coleoptera, Scolytinae) have a widespread association with fungi, especially with ophiostomatoid fungi (Ascomycota) that cause blue staining of wood, and in some cases, serious tree diseases. In Fennoscandia, most studies of these fungi have focused on economically important bark beetle species and this is likely to have led to a biased view of the fungal biodiversity in the region. Recently, the associations between fungi and bark beetles in Fennoscandia have been shown to be more diverse than previously thought. Furthermore, they form complex and dynamic associations that are only now beginning to emerge. This review examines the current knowledge of the rather poorly known interactions between bark beetles, fungi and their conifer host trees in Fennoscandia. The diversity of ophiostomatoid species is discussed and the possible factors that influence the assemblages of fungal associates are considered for all species that are known to occur in the region. For many ophiostomatoid species found in Fennoscandia, little or nothing is known regarding their pathogenicity, particularly if they were to be transferred to new environments. We, therefore, draw attention to the possible threats of timber trade and climate change-induced invasions of new habitats by bark beetles and the fungi that can be moved along with them.
Antioxidant Activity of Hawaiian Marine Algae
Authors: Kelman Dovi , Posner Ellen Kromkowski , McDermid Karla J. , Tabandera Nicole K. , Wright Patrick R. , Wright Anthony D.
Published: February 2012

Marine algae are known to contain a wide variety of bioactive compounds, many of which have commercial applications in pharmaceutical, medical, cosmetic, nutraceutical, food and agricultural industries. Natural antioxidants, found in many algae, are important bioactive compounds that play an important role against various diseases and ageing processes through protection of cells from oxidative damage. In this respect, relatively little is known about the bioactivity of Hawaiian algae that could be a potential natural source of such antioxidants. The total antioxidant activity of organic extracts of 37 algal samples, comprising of 30 species of Hawaiian algae from 27 different genera was determined. The activity was determined by employing the FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) assays. Of the algae tested, the extract of Turbinaria ornata was found to be the most active. Bioassay-guided fractionation of this extract led to the isolation of a variety of different carotenoids as the active principles. The major bioactive antioxidant compound was identified as the carotenoid fucoxanthin. These results show, for the first time, that numerous Hawaiian algae exhibit significant antioxidant activity, a property that could lead to their application in one of many useful healthcare or related products as well as in chemoprevention of a variety of diseases including cancer.
Antihypertensive Effect of Long-Term Oral Administration of Jellyfish (Rhopilema esculentum) Collagen Peptides on Renovascular Hypertension
Authors: Zhuang Yongliang , Sun Liping , Zhang Yufeng , Liu Gaoxiang
Published: February 2012

Antihypertensive effect of long-term oral administration of jellyfish (Rhopilema esculentum) collagen peptides (JCP) on renovascular hypertension rats (RVHs) was evaluated. The systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure of the RVHs were significantly reduced with administration of JCP (p < 0.05), compared with model control group. However, the arterial blood pressure of normal rats showed no significant changes during long-term oral treatment with high dose JCP (p > 0.05). Furthermore, effect of JCP on angiotensin II (Ang II) concentration of plasma had no significance (p > 0.05), but JCP significantly inhibited the Ang II concentration in RVHs’ kidney (p < 0.05). The kidney should be the target site of JCP.
Terpenoids from the Octocorals Menella sp. (Plexauridae) and Lobophytum crassum (Alcyonacea)
Authors: Lee Cheng-Hung , Kao Chia-Ying , Kao Shih-Yao , Chang Chih-Han , Su Jui-Hsin , Hwang Tsong-Long , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung , Wen Zhi-Hong , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: February 2012

A new germacrane-type sesquiterpenoid, menelloide E (1), and a new cembrane-type diterpenoid, lobocrassin F (2), were isolated from the octocorals Menella sp. and Lobophytum crassum, respectively. The structures of terpenoids 1 and 2 were determined by spectroscopic and chemical methods and compound 2 was found to display a significant inhibitory effect on the release of elastase by human neutrophils.
Estimating Biophysical Parameters of Individual Trees in an Urban Environment Using Small Footprint Discrete-Return Imaging Lidar
Authors: Shrestha Rupesh , Wynne Randolph H.
Published: February 2012

Quantification of biophysical parameters of urban trees is important for urban planning, and for assessing carbon sequestration and ecosystem services. Airborne lidar has been used extensively in recent years to estimate biophysical parameters of trees in forested ecosystems. However, similar studies are largely lacking for individual trees in urban landscapes. Prediction models to estimate biophysical parameters such as height, crown area, diameter at breast height, and biomass for over two thousand individual trees were developed using best subsets multiple linear regression for a study area in central Oklahoma, USA using point cloud distributional metrics from an Optech ALTM 2050 lidar system. A high level of accuracy was attained for estimating individual tree height (R2 = 0.89), dbh (R2 = 0.82), crown diameter (R2 = 0.90), and biomass (R2 = 0.67) using lidar-based metrics for pooled data of all tree species. More variance was explained in species-specific estimates of biomass (R2 = 0.68 for Juniperus virginiana to 0.84 for Ulmus parviflora) than in estimates from broadleaf deciduous (R2 = 0.63) and coniferous (R2 = 0.45) taxonomic groups—or the data set analysed as a whole (R2 = 0.67). The metric crown area performed particularly well for most of the species-specific biomass equations, which suggests that tree crowns should be delineated accurately, whether manually or using automatic individual tree detection algorithms, to obtain a good estimation of biomass using lidar-based metrics.
Waveguide-Mode Sensors as Aptasensors
Authors: Gopinath Subash C. B. , Awazu Koichi , Fujimaki Makoto
Published: February 2012

Aptamers are artificial nucleic acid ligands that can be generated by in vitro selection through partition and amplification. Aptamers can be generated against a wide range of biomolecules through the formation of versatile stem-loop structures. Because aptamers are potential substitutes for antibodies and drugs, the development of an aptamer-based sensor (aptasensor) is mandatory for diagnosis. We previously reported that waveguide-mode sensors are useful in the analysis of a wide range of biomolecular interactions, including aptamers. The advantages of the waveguide-mode sensor that we developed include physical and chemical stability and that higher sensitivity can be achieved with ease by perforating the waveguide layer or using colored materials such as dyes or metal nanoparticles as labels. Herein, we provide an overview of the strategies and applications for aptamer-based analyses using waveguide-mode sensors.
Objective Display and Discrimination of Floral Odors from Amorphophallus titanum, Bloomed on Different Dates and at Different Locations, Using an Electronic Nose
Authors: Fujioka Kouki , Shirasu Mika , Manome Yoshinobu , Ito Nobuo , Kakishima Satoshi , Minami Tomohiro , Tominaga Tadashi , Shimozono Fumio , Iwamoto Takeo , Ikeda Keiichi , Yamamoto Kenji , Murata Jin , Tomizawa Yasuko
Published: February 2012

As olfactory perceptions vary from person to person, it is difficult to describe smells objectively. In contrast, electronic noses also detect smells with their sensors, but in addition describe those using electronic signals. Here we showed a virtual connection method between a human nose perceptions and electronic nose responses with the smell of standard gases. In this method, Amorphophallus titanum flowers, which emit a strong carrion smell, could objectively be described using an electronic nose, in a way resembling the skill of sommeliers. We could describe the flower smell to be close to that of a mixture of methyl mercaptan and propionic acid, by calculation of the dilution index from electronic resistances. In other words, the smell resembled that of “decayed cabbage, garlic and pungent sour” with possible descriptors. Additionally, we compared the smells of flowers which bloomed on different dates and at different locations and showed the similarity of odor intensities visually, in standard gas categories. We anticipate our assay to be a starting point for a perceptive connection between our noses and electronic noses.
Improving Planetary Rover Attitude Estimation via MEMS Sensor Characterization
Authors: Hidalgo Javier , Poulakis Pantelis , Köhler Johan , Del-Cerro Jaime , Barrientos Antonio
Published: February 2012

Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) are currently being considered in the space sector due to its suitable level of performance for spacecrafts in terms of mechanical robustness with low power consumption, small mass and size, and significant advantage in system design and accommodation. However, there is still a lack of understanding regarding the performance and testing of these new sensors, especially in planetary robotics. This paper presents what is missing in the field: a complete methodology regarding the characterization and modeling of MEMS sensors with direct application. A reproducible and complete approach including all the intermediate steps, tools and laboratory equipment is described. The process of sensor error characterization and modeling through to the final integration in the sensor fusion scheme is explained with detail. Although the concept of fusion is relatively easy to comprehend, carefully characterizing and filtering sensor information is not an easy task and is essential for good performance. The strength of the approach has been verified with representative tests of novel high-grade MEMS inertia sensors and exemplary planetary rover platforms with promising results.
Host jumping onto close relatives and across kingdoms by Tyrannicordyceps (Clavicipitaceae) gen. nov. and Ustilaginoidea_(Clavicipitaceae)
Authors: Kepler Ryan M. , Sung Gi‐Ho , Harada Yukio , Tanaka Kazuaki , Tanaka Eiji , Hosoya Tsuyoshi , Bischoff Joseph F. , Spatafora Joseph W.
Published: February 2012

• Premise of study: This research seeks to advance understanding of conditions allowing movement of fungal pathogens among hosts. The family Clavicipitaceae contains fungal pathogens exploiting hosts across three kingdoms of life in a pattern that features multiple interkingdom host shifts among plants, animals, and fungi. The tribe Ustilaginoideae potentially represents a third origin of plant pathogenesis, although these species remain understudied. Fungal pathogens that cause ergot are linked morphologically with Clavicipitaceae, but are not yet included in phylogenetic studies. The placement of Ustilaginoideae and ergot pathogens will allow differentiation between the host habitat and host relatedness hypotheses as mechanisms of phylogenetic diversification of Clavicipitaceae.

• Methods: A multigene data set was assembled for Clavicipitaceae to test phylogenetic placement and ancestral character‐state reconstructions for Ustilaginoidea virens and U. dichromonae as well as the ergot mycoparasite Cordyceps fratricida. Microscopic morphological observations of sexual and asexual states were also performed.

• Key results: Phylogenetic placement of U. virens and U. dichromonae represents a third acquisition of the plant pathogenic lifestyle in Clavicipitaceae. Cordyceps fratricida was also placed in Clavicipitaceae and recognized as a new genus Tyrannicordyceps. Ancestral character state reconstructions indicate initially infecting hemipteran insect hosts facilitates subsequent changes to a plant pathogenic lifestyle. The ancestor of T. fratricida is inferred to have jumped from grasses to pathogens of grasses.

• Conclusions: The host habitat hypothesis best explains the dynamic evolution of host affiliations seen in Clavicipitaceae and throughout Hypocreales. Co‐occurrence in the same habitat has allowed for host shifts from animals to plants, and from plants to fungi.
Tracing the origin of Gulf Coast Phragmites (Poaceae): A story of long‐distance dispersal and hybridization
Authors: Lambertini Carla , Mendelssohn Irving A. , Gustafsson Mats H. G. , Olesen Birgit , RIIS Tenna , Sorrell Brian K. , Brix Hans
Published: February 2012

• Premise of the study: Long‐distance dispersal can affect speciation processes in two opposing ways. Dispersal can promote geographic isolation or it can bring together geographically distant and distantly related genotypes, thus counteracting local differentiation. We used the Gulf Coast of North America (GC), a “hot spot” of reed diversity and evolutionary dynamics, as a model system to study the diversification processes within the invasive, cosmopolitan, polyploid grass Phragmites.

• Methods: Genetic diversity was studied using collections representing all species of the genus and from all continents (except Antarctica). A range of molecular markers, including chloroplast and nuclear sequences, microsatellites, and AFLPs, was analyzed to detect DNA variation from the population to the species level and to infer phylogenetic relationships across continents.

• Key results: An interspecific hybrid, Phragmites mauritianus × P. australis, and four P. australis cp‐DNA haplotypes from Africa, Europe, and North America have been dispersed to the GC and interbreed with each other.

• Conclusions: Long‐distance dispersal and weak breeding barriers appear to be recurring phenomena, not only in the GC, but worldwide. We present data strongly suggesting that interspecific hybridization and introgression among different Phragmites species take place and appear to have contributed significantly to the diversification processes within the genus. Hence, the application of traditional species concepts within Phragmites might be inappropriate.
Hip abductors pyomyositis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Ali , Vosoughi Amir Reza , Pourmokhtari Masoome
Published: February 2012

Pyomyositis, an acute hematogenous intramuscular bacterial infection, is an unusual disease in temperate climates. We present the case of a 15-year-old girl who was referred to our centre with pain, fever, and limping.  Magnetic resonance imaging and surgery showed diffuse pus collection in the hip abductor muscles. With increased incidence of this disease in immunocompromised patients in temperate areas, physicians must become familiar with its signs and symptoms to facilitate early diagnosis.
Prevalence of enteropathogens in normal feces from healthy children at an infant day care in Brazil
Authors: Moura Cláudia , Fregolente Maria Clara Duarte , Martini Isabel Julien , Domingos Daniela Ferreira , Silva Erivaldo José da , Ferraz Mirtis Maria Giaciani , Gatti Maria Silvia Viccari , Leite Domingos da Silva
Published: February 2012

Introduction: The diarrhea associated with gastroenteritis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, affecting mainly infants. The characterization of both viral and bacterial agents associated with gastroenteritis can establish policies for surveillance, prevention and treatment of infections. Group A rotaviruses are the major infectious agent associated with dehydration in children, followed by pathotypes of Escherichia coli. There are three main types of clinical infections caused by E. coli strains that have acquired virulence genes: (i) enteric and diarrheal diseases, (ii) urinary tract infections, and (iii) sepsis and meningitis. Methodology: In this study, the objective was to identify the presence of rotavirus and diarrhogenic E. coli in the feces of children 4 to 14 months of age who displayed no gastroenteritis symptoms and stayed all day in a day-care center. We analyzed 188 samples using PAGE and PCR to identify rotaviruses and E. coli virulence genes, respectively. Results: Thirty-six samples (19.1%) were positive for at least one pathotype of E. coli. Nineteen were identified to be of the EPEC group and fifteen of the EAEC group. Rotaviruses were not identified. Conclusions: As EPEC and EAEC are potential pathogens for children less than one year of age or immunocompromised individuals, our results show the importance of appropriate monitoring by public health agencies.  In the situation that we have studied, children can be considered asymptomatic carriers of these pathogens and can transmit them to other susceptible children.
Seroprevalence of hepatitis B: Do blood donors represent the general population?
Authors: Kumbasar Karaosmanoglu Hayat , Altuntas Aydin Ozlem , Sandikci Semra , Yamanlar Emine Rahsan , Nazlican Ozcan
Published: February 2012

Introduction: In this study, we aimed to compare the HBV seroprevalances of voluntary blood donors and the healthy persons who required premarital screening. Methodology: HBsAg ELISA results were collected retrospectively from the records of 9,949 blood donors and 954 healthy persons who required premarital screening. Results: HBsAg was detected in 182 of  9,949 (%1.8)  voluntary blood donors and  32 of  954 (%3.4)  healthy persons who required premarital screening. HBsAg seropositivity was significiantly higher in the healthy persons who required premarital screening than in blood donors (p = 0.0016). Conclusion: Premarital screening is mandatory in our country, and it may provide more accurate epidemiological data to determine HBV seroprevalence than in other selected groups such as blood donors.
Crocuta dietrichi de Meob, Namibia: Implicaciones sobre la edad de la Arenisca de Tsondab en la zona costera del desierto de Namibia
Authors: Morales J. , Senut B. , Pickford M.
Published: February 2012

Los trabajos paleontológicos en el mar de arenas del desierto del Namib, al este de Meob, Namibia, nos han llevado al descubrimiento de una dentición inferior de hiénido. Las mismas series de eoleanitas contienen abundantes huellas y coprolitos de carnívoros, compatibles en tamaño con los restos dentarios. El parecido más cercano para dentición de Meob es la especie extinguida Crocuta dietrichi, cuya localidad tipo son las capas de Laetoli Superior, Tanzania, ca. 3,5-3,8 Ma. En otros lugares, la especie se distribuye en un rango de edad de entre ca. 4,4 a 1,9 Ma. El aspecto primitivo de la dentición y sus pequeñas dimensiones sugieren que los fósiles están más cerca en edad a 4 Ma que a 2 Ma. Este descubrimiento suministra la primera evidencia concerniente a la edad de las eoleanitas de Tsondab en el sector de Meob del desierto del Namib.
Un nuevo género y especie de Felidae (Mammalia) de la isla de Rusinga, Kenia, con notas sobre los primeros Felidae de África
Authors: Werdelin L.
Published: February 2012

Los depósitos del Mioceno inferior de la formación Hiwegi, en la Isla de Rusinga (Kenia), han proporcionado un espécimen aislado de un pequeño félido. Esta pieza, identificada aquí como holotipo de un nuevo género y especie, es del tamaño del félido actual más pequeño. Presenta algunos caracteres de los félidos primitivos de “grado Pseudaelurus”, pero también rasgos tanto métricos como morfológicos que son intermedios entre este grado y los Felidae modernos, sugiriendo que se trata de un taxón transicional. Por el contrario, Diamantofelis y Namafelis de Namibia, aunque de morfología aberrante, son más claramente del “grado Pseudaelurus”. El espécimen de Rusinga es el félido más derivado del Mioceno inferior.
Retour sur la série type de Gomphotherium angustidens (Proboscidea, Mammalia): de Daubenton à Cuvier, et après
Authors: Tassy P. , Göhlich U. B.
Published: February 2012

[fr] Les spécimens qui ont permis à Cuvier de décrire le «mastodonte à dents étroites» en 1806, dénommé par lui Mastodon angustidens en 1817, sont révisés. Certains d’entre eux (molaires et fragments de molaires), provenant de Simorre (Gers), avaient déjà été mentionnés par Réaumur et par Daubenton au 18e siècle. La série type de Gomphotherium angustidens (CUVIER, 1817) est présentée, discutée et réinterprétée.
Anatomía comparada de los senos frontales en el félido dientes de sable primitivo Promegantereon ogygia (Felidae, Machairodontinae) y felinos actuales de tamaño similar
Authors: Siliceo G. , Salesa M. J. , Antón M. , Pastor J. F. , Morales J.
Published: February 2012

En el presente trabajo, se analizan los senos frontales del félido dientes de sable Promegantereon ogygia, en comparación con los de los felinos actuales Acinonyx jubatus, Puma conocolor y Panthera pardus, de similar peso corporal. El estudio se llevó a cabo utilizando modelos virtuales 3D obtenidos por tomografía axial computerizada, una técnica no destructiva que se ha revelado como una poderosa herramienta para acceder a todo tipo de información intracraneal. Nuestro estudio muestra que los senos frontales de P. ogygia eran más similares a los de P. concolor, tanto en la presencia de varios puntales óseos de refuerzo de la parte dorsal, y en el desarrollo de una notable expansión caudal. Esta expansión caudal actuaría como un aislante térmico del cerebro, y podría indicar un entorno más abierto de lo que se supone para esta especie, mientras que los puntales óseos se relacionarían con tensiones biomecánicas producidas durante el mordisco típico de los macairodontinos, el método de ataque de los machairodontinos.
El origen de los Homínidos: ¿Europeo, Africano, ambos o ninguno de ellos?
Authors: Senut B.
Published: February 2012

Durante los últimos veinte años, algunos científicos han sugerido que los grandes monos africanos y los linajes humanos surgieron en Europa, un escenario conocido como la “ Hipótesis de la vuelta a Africa”. A pesar de que los homínidos se extendieron en Eurasia durante el Mioceno Medio y Superior debido a las condiciones tropicales que prevalecian en esta region, no podemos descartar el hecho de que ellos estuvieron presentes en Africa (contra algunos autores). En realidad, ellos tuvieron una alta diversidad al mismo tiempo (al menos 10 líneas representadas), incluso si el registro fosil es menos completo que el de Eurasia. Elementos postcraneales de especies africanas sugieren que en algunos carácteres los homínidos modernos estaban ya presentes en el Mioceno Inferior y Medio de Africa, no sólo restringidos a las formas europeas. Teniendo en cuenta las evidencias disponibles, no es posible, en el estado actual de conocimiento, favorecer más un origen europeo que otro africano. Los homínidos vivieron en áreas tropicales del Norte de África y del Sur de Eurasia, cambios faunísticos se sucedieron entre los dos continents a lo largo del Mioceno Medio y Superior, sin que el Tetis actuase como una barrera efectiva a los intercambios entre Europa y Asia.
Les Rhinocerotidae (Mammalia, Perissodactyla) miocènes et pliocènes des Tugen Hills (Kénya)
Authors: Guérin C.
Published: February 2012

[fr] Plus de 70 restes déterminables appartenant à neuf espèces de Rhinocerotidae ont été recueillis dans 26 gisements miocènes et pliocènes des Tugen Hills, les plus riches étant Cheboit, Kapsomin, Kipsaraman et Tabarin. Ce matériel permet d’accroître sensiblement nos connaissances sur l’anatomie de ces espèces. Il est désormais possible de distinguer le squelette post-crânien de Aceratherium acutirostratum de celui de Dicerorhinus leakeyi; l’anatomie crânienne et dentaire de Paradiceros mukirii est mieux connue. L’extension temporelle de Chilotheridium pattersoni et de Paradiceros mukirii sont sensiblement accrues. Ceratotherium praecox est le rhinocéros le plus fréquent à partir du Miocène terminal. Diceros bicornis est attesté depuis 6 Ma, sensiblement au même moment que les premiers C. praecox. Diceros cf. pachygnathus est reconnu dans les formations de Lukeino et de Mabaget, ce qui accroît considérablement l’extension géographique des espèces de ce groupe. L’association de l’Hominidé Orrorin tugenensis avec Ceratotherium praecox dans trois des quatre sites où il a été découvert (et, dans un seul site à chaque fois, avec Diceros cf. pachygnathus, D. bicornis et Brachypotherium lewisi) montre que son environnement végétal était varié mais à dominante ouverte et plutôt humide.
Nuevos Pedetidae (Rodentia: Mammalia) del Mio-Plioceno de Africa
Authors: Pickford M. , Mein P.
Published: February 2012

Los Pedetidae o liebres saltadoras están representados por un solo género actual (Pedetes) y 5 extintos (Parapedetes, Megapedetes, Propedetes, Rusigapedetes y Oldrichpedetes, estos dos últimos son nuevos). El registro fósil de los pedétidos es escaso, pero restos fósiles han sido encontrados en Sudáfrica, África del Este, Magreb, Península Arábiga, Turquía y Grecia. La mayoría de las localidades sólo han suministrado unos pocos dientes aislados. En el presente trabajo describimos parte del abundante material fósil procedente de Namibia y Kenia, que arroja nueva luz al conocimiento de la familia.
Disruptive Technologies, Innovation and Global Redesign
Authors: Islam Nazrul , Ekekwe Ndubuisi
Published: February 2012

Innovations from disruptive technologies drive new opportunities through provision of higher-valued products and services. They create new markets and reshape established ones, enabling changes across industries, and consequently impact the competitive landscape through formation of new business models. Disruptive innovations have recently been applied to a wide variety of sectors such as consumer electronics, micro-lending, mobile banking, portable water filters, and cell phones, which continue to capture market share in the global telecommunication industry. Data shows that innovation correlates with better quality of life when it diffuses into societies and economies. The rich nations see it as a way to stave off poverty while the poor ones are depending on it to accelerate economic growth. Indeed, it is the gun-powder of the knowledge world, at firm, nation, and regional levels. This chapter explains how it grasps the demand of a non-mainstream market, survey the unknown market, and over time, lead the whole market, resulting in cultural, social, and economic changes. A closer examination of the five habits, usually associated with the purveyors of innovation, using the gaming industry, the fastest-growing mass media and entertainment industry, is provided.