bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ideology of the Dual City: The Modernist Ethic in the Corporate Development of Makati City, Metro Manila
Authors: GARRIDO MARCO
Published: January 2012

Postcolonial cities are dual cities not just because of global market forces, but also because of ideological currents operating through local real‐estate markets — currents inculcated during the colonial period and adapted to the postcolonial one. Following Abidin Kusno, we may speak of the ideological continuity behind globalization in the continuing hold of a modernist ethic, not only on the imagination of planners and builders but on the preferences of elite consumers for exclusive spaces. Most of the scholarly work considering the spatial impact of corporate‐led urban development has situated the phenomenon in the ‘global’ era — to the extent that the spatial patterns resulting from such development appear wholly the outcome of contemporary globalization. The case of Makati City belies this periodization. By examining the development of a corporate master‐planned new city in the 1950s rather than the 1990s, we can achieve a better appreciation of the influence of an enduring ideology — a modernist ethic — in shaping the duality of Makati.

Les grandes villes postcoloniales sont des villes duales, pas seulement à cause des forces de la mondialisation économique, mais aussi à cause de courants idéologiques qui passent par les marchés immobiliers locaux, courants inculqués à l'ère coloniale puis ajustés à la période postcoloniale. Dans le sillage d'Abidin Kusno, on peut signaler la continuité idéologique sous‐jacenteà la mondialisation, qui s'exerce dans la mainmise pérenne d'une éthique moderniste, non seulement sur l'imagination des urbanistes et constructeurs, mais aussi sur les choix des consommateurs appartenant aux élites qui préfèrent des espaces exclusifs. Les travaux de recherches sur l'impact spatial de l'urbanisation menée par de grandes entreprises ont généralement rattaché le phénomène à l'ère ‘mondialisée’, dans la mesure où les schémas spatiaux obtenus semblent résulter intégralement de la mondialisation contemporaine. Le cas de Makati dément ce profil temporel. En analysant l'aménagement d'une ville nouvelle selon le schéma directeur d'entreprises dans les années 1950, au lieu des années 1990, on peut mieux apprécier l'influence d'une idéologie persistante — une éthique moderniste — dans la configuration de la dualité de Makati.
Turkish Immigrants’ Hopes and Fears around Return Migration
Authors: Şenyürekli Aysem R. , Menjívar Cecilia
Published: January 2012

This paper seeks to understand the process by which immigrants decide whether or not to return to their home countries. It aims to analyse the potential for return migration rather than the actual migration process. Empirically, it is based on the narratives of 30 Turkish immigrants living in the United States. The findings indicate that: (1) multiple controllable and uncontrollable, micro‐ and macro‐level factors in both the home and the host countries interact over time to tip the scales towards – or away from – return migration; and (2) most immigrants live in a perpetual state of ambivalence about whether or not to engage in return migration. These findings are discussed, and implications are presented for both practice and policy.
Formalizing Diaspora–State Relations: Processes and Tensions in the Jamaican Case
Authors: Sives Amanda
Published: January 2012

In common with many other developing states, the Jamaican government has recently sought to institutionalize relations with its diaspora in order to enhance its development potential. I explore the initiative in this paper. I begin with a definition of diaspora, in which I argue for the need to recognize the multiple meanings of the term, especially as they relate to migrant communities that do not follow the pattern of forced migration. Using Itzigsohn’s distinction between “narrow” and “broad” formations (see Itzigsohn et al., 1999), I argue that analysis of the operation of diaspora–state relations can only occur meaningfully using the narrow definition. This is followed by an examination of recent literature on diaspora–state relations, which provides a necessary context for the Jamaican case study. In the second section, I provide background to the 2004 initiative, showing that there was a clear progression from concern about the experiences of returned residents to an engagement with Jamaicans residing overseas. In the third section, I examine the structures created by the Jamaican government and, finally, I provide a critical appraisal of the process as it has unfolded thus far. I argue that tensions remain regarding the role and functioning of the “new” formalized process compared with the pre‐existing bodies, that resources are required to ensure a more equitable functioning of the process and that questions remain about the extent to which the new bodies “represent” the diaspora.
Substance P alterations in skin and brain of chronically stressed atopic‐like mice
Authors: Grip L. , Lonne‐Rahm S.‐B. , Holst M. , Johansson B. , Nordlind K. , Theodorsson E. , El‐Nour H.
Published: January 2012

Background  Stress is known to worsen the symptoms of atopic eczema (AE). Substance P is likely to play an important role in the development and pathogenesis of AE.

Objective  To examine a possible connection between chronic mild stress and changes in the expression of substance P and its receptor (R) neurokinin (NK) 1 in the skin and stress‐related brain regions in NC/Nga atopic‐like mice.

Methods  The mice were divided into three groups (eight animals per group): SE (stressed eczematous), NSE (non‐stressed eczematous) and SC (stressed control). Ears and brains of the mice were investigated using immunohistochemistry and RT‐PCR.

Results  In the skin, there was a decrease in the number of substance P immunoreactive nerve fibres in SE compared with SC group. RT‐PCR showed a strong tendency to an increase in mRNA for NK1R in the skin of SE compared with NSE mice. There was an increase in the number of mast cells and the degree of their degranulation in the SE compared with both other groups.

A decrease in substance P immunoreactivity in medial hippocampus was found in SE compared with NSE animals. In prefrontal cortex and central amygdala, there were no significant differences in substance P immunoreactivity between the three groups.

Conclusion  Exposure to chronic mild stress in NC/Nga atopic‐like mice may result in altered expression patterns of substance P in the skin and hippocampus.
The EU an Actor Sui Generis? A Comparison of EU and ASEAN Actorness*
Authors: WUNDERLICH JENS‐UWE
Published: January 2012

The core argument of this article is to advocate the recognition of regional organizations as international actors. Conceptions of the European Union (EU) as an international actor are not new. However, a great deal of the literature regards the EU as sui generis in nature and lacking in external capabilities when compared to nation‐states. Other regional organizations, such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) fare even worse. This article notes that we need to move beyond a state‐centric view of world politics to assess the actor capabilities, nascent or advanced, of other players in the global arena, particularly regional organizations.
Internal morphology of human facet joints: comparing cervical and lumbar spine with regard to age, gender and the vertebral core
Authors: Wilke Hans‐Joachim , Zanker Daniel , Wolfram Uwe
Published: January 2012

Back pain constitutes a major problem in modern societies. Facet joints are increasingly recognised as a source of such pain. Knowledge about the internal morphology and its changes with age may make it possible to include the facets more in therapeutic strategies, for instance joint replacements or immobilisation. In total, 168 facets from C6/7 and L4/5 segments were scanned in a micro‐computed tomography. Image analysis was used to investigate the internal morphology with regard to donor age and gender. Additional data from trabecular bone of the vertebral core allowed a semi‐quantitative comparison of the morphology of the vertebral core and the facets. Porosity and pore spacing of the cortical sub‐chondral bone does not appear to change with age for either males or females. In contrast, bone volume fraction decreases in females from approximately 0.4 to 0.2 , whereas it is constant in males. Trabecular thickness decreases during the ageing process in females and stays constant in males , whereas trabecular separation increases during the ageing process in both genders. The results of this study may help to improve the understanding of pathophysiological changes in the facet joints. Such results could be of value for understanding back pain and its treatment.
Water release through plant roots: new insights into its consequences at the plant and ecosystem level
Authors: Prieto Iván , Armas Cristina , Pugnaire Francisco I.
Published: January 2012

Hydraulic redistribution (HR) is the passive movement of water between different soil parts via plant root systems, driven by water potential gradients in the soil–plant interface. New data suggest that HR is a heterogeneous and patchy process. In this review we examine the main biophysical and environmental factors controlling HR and its main implications at the plant, community and ecosystem levels. Experimental evidence and the use of novel modelling approaches suggest that HR may have important implications at the community scale, affecting net primary productivity as well as water and vegetation dynamics. Globally, HR may influence hydrological and biogeochemical cycles and, ultimately, climate.

Contents

Summary
830

I.
Introduction
830

II.
Mechanisms controlling HR
832

III.
Below‐ground processes affected by HR
833

IV.
Ecological implications of HR
835

V.
Concluding remarks
838

Acknowledgements
839

References
839
Computed tomographic evaluation of gas hole formation and structural quality in Gouda‐type cheese
Authors: LEE KIJA , UEGAKI KAHO , NISHII CHIHIRO , NAKAMURA TADASHI , KUBOTA AUSKA , HIRAI TSUNAO , YAMADA KAZUTAKA
Published: January 2012

Computed tomography (CT) was performed on Gouda‐type cheese during ripening to evaluate gas hole formation and structural quality. The cheese was exposed to different ripening conditions, including variations in ripening temperature and concentration of butyric acid bacteria. Computed tomography images were obtained every 2 weeks for 16 weeks to assess the volume, shape and location of gas holes. The results demonstrate that CT makes the nondestructive monitoring of cheese gas hole formation and evaluation of the structural features of cheese possible throughout the ripening period.
Physicochemical and antioxidant properties of bovine caseinate hydrolysates obtained through microbial protease treatment
Authors: HIDALGO MARÍA E , DAROIT DANIEL J , FOLMER CORRÊA ANA P , PIENIZ SIMONE , BRANDELLI ADRIANO , RISSO PATRICIA H
Published: January 2012

It is currently possible to obtain bioactive nutritional components through enzyme hydrolysis under well‐controlled and moderate conditions of pH and temperature. In this work, we aimed for the production and characterisation of bovine sodium caseinate (NaCAS) hydrolysates by means of an extracellular protease from Bacillus sp. P45. Antioxidant properties were evaluated through 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assays. A glucono‐δ‐lactone acid‐induced aggregation and gelation processes of the hydrolysates and their corresponding mixtures with NaCAS were also analysed. Hereby, we demonstrate that the presence of hydrolysates affects the kinetics of NaCAS aggregation processes but does not significantly alters the final state of the acid aggregates obtained.
The influence of male age on within‐pair and extra‐pair paternity in passerines
Authors: CLEASBY IAN R. , NAKAGAWA SHINICHI
Published: January 2012

Although male age has often been found to predict success in gaining extra‐pair paternity, it is unclear whether this gain is associated with an individual’s success in avoiding cuckoldry. We examined the relationship between male age and both within‐ and extra‐pair paternity in passerines using a meta‐analytical approach. There was a positive correlation between male age and success in extra‐pair paternity but little evidence for an association between male age and within‐pair paternity. In addition, effect sizes for male within‐pair paternity and male extra‐pair paternity were not significantly correlated. Thus, factors that predict success in obtaining extra‐pair paternity, such as male age, may not necessarily predict success in avoiding cuckoldry.
The Kinetics of Cardiopulmonary Bypass: A Dual‐Platform Proteomics Study of Plasma Biomarkers in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Umstead Todd M. , Lu Chia‐jung K. , Freeman Willard M. , Myers John L. , Clark J. Brian , Thomas Neal J. , Icitovic Nikolina , Chinchilli Vernon M. , Ündar Akif , Phelps David S.
Published: January 2012

Abstract:  This study was designed to investigate the expression kinetics and patterns of plasma biomarkers throughout the pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) procedure to help predict those patients most at risk for complications. This study sampled plasma from pediatric CPB patients at five time points before, during, and after CPB. A dual‐platform proteomics approach was then utilized which incorporated two‐dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2D‐DIGE) coupled with matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization‐time‐of‐flight/time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry, and multi‐analyte profile (MAP) assays to identify changes in expression of plasma protein biomarkers and characterize the patterns of these changes. A combined total of 134 proteins were identified with significant changes between the two platforms, with 53 coming from 2D‐DIGE, 90 from MAP, and nine proteins that were identified using both methods. The proteins were then divided into 12 major groups based on the expression patterns, and two of the most clinically relevant proteins having the greatest changes in expression were selected from each group to use as “predictor biomarkers.” A potential model for prediction of patient outcome was then generated using these 24 proteins. The patterns of biomarker expression during pediatric CPB may provide insight into the prediction, prevention, or treatment of complications resulting from CPB, thereby helping to improve the outcomes of pediatric CPB patients and reduce the incidence of complications.
Efficient Consumer Altruism and Fair Trade Products
Authors: Reinstein David , Song Joon
Published: January 2012

Consumers have shown a willingness to pay a premium for products labeled as “FT” and a preference for retailers that are seen to be more generous to their suppliers/employees. A FT product is essentially a bundle of a base product and a donation to the supplier (e.g., a coffee farmer). An altruistic rational consumer will only choose this bundle if doing so is less expensive than buying the base product and making a direct donation. For FT to be sustainable either in a competitive equilibrium or in a monopolistic environment this bundling must yield an efficiency. This efficiency is generated in the following context. A supplier’s investment reduces the retailer’s cost or boosts the final product’s quality, but this investment is not immediately observable and cannot be enforced, hence there exists a moral hazard problem. In this environment, the altruism of the consumer can facilitate a more efficient contract: by paying the supplier more the retailer can both extract more consumer surplus and increase the level of contracted investment, while preserving the supplier’s incentive compatibility constraint. We assess our model in the context of the coffee industry.
In vitro platelet quality in storage containers used for pediatric transfusions
Authors: Weiss Sandra , Scammell Kenneth , Levin Elena , Culibrk Brankica , Zolfaghari Sima , Gyöngyössy‐Issa Maria I.C. , Acker Jason P.
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND: The in vitro quality of small‐volume platelet (PLT) aliquots for pediatric transfusions was assessed to determine the best practice approach.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Small volumes (50 mL) of single apheresis PLT components (APCs), collected on either CaridianBCT Trima or Haemonetics MCS+ instruments, were aliquoted on Days 2, 3, 4, and 5 postcollection into Fenwal PL1240 or 4R2014 bags or 60‐mL polypropylene syringes. Samples were tested for in vitro quality at their recommended expiry times (4 hr for 4R2014 bags and syringes or Day 5 for PL1240 bags). Assays included pH, CD62P expression, and metabolic measures.

RESULTS: CD62P expression increased throughout storage in all containers. Among the small‐volume containers, pH, pCO2, lactate, and bicarbonate varied considerably. Regardless of the day of aliquoting, pCO2 was significantly higher and pO2 was significantly lower in gas‐impermeable syringes than other containers. No bacterial growth was detected in any sample.

CONCLUSION: The quality of APCs aliquoted into small‐volume containers meets regulatory requirements and is generally equivalent to that of full‐volume APCs at expiry.
Fabrication of Transparent Polycrystalline ZnAl2O4 – A New Optical Bulk Ceramic
Authors: Goldstein Adrian , Yeshurun Yehoshua , Vulfson Marina , Kravits Haim
Published: January 2012

There is interest in the enlarging of the bulk, transparent ceramics family. Polycrystalline ZnAl2O4 may constitute a useful addition to the existent set of such materials. The objective of this work was the development of a technology allowing the fabrication of bulk, polycrystalline, transparent ZnAl2O4 parts. It was determined that a nano ZnAl2O4 powder, synthesized by the hydrothermal technique, can be formed into green bodies having an average pore size of 30 nm and a bulk density of ~55% TD. A two stage sintering process, in which air heating (1500°C) was followed by hot‐isostatic pressing (1550°C), densified small (20 mm in diameter) disks to a bulk density ≈TD. Such specimens exhibit an in‐line transmission of 78% (λ = 800 nm; t = 2 mm), a hardness of 10.5 GPa and an average grains size of 1.1 μm.
When, What, and How Much to Reward in Reinforcement Learning‐Based Models of Cognition
Authors: Janssen Christian P. , Gray Wayne D.
Published: January 2012

Reinforcement learning approaches to cognitive modeling represent task acquisition as learning to choose the sequence of steps that accomplishes the task while maximizing a reward. However, an apparently unrecognized problem for modelers is choosing when, what, and how much to reward; that is, when (the moment: end of trial, subtask, or some other interval of task performance), what (the objective function: e.g., performance time or performance accuracy), and how much (the magnitude: with binary, categorical, or continuous values). In this article, we explore the problem space of these three parameters in the context of a task whose completion entails some combination of 36 state–action pairs, where all intermediate states (i.e., after the initial state and prior to the end state) represent progressive but partial completion of the task. Different choices produce profoundly different learning paths and outcomes, with the strongest effect for moment. Unfortunately, there is little discussion in the literature of the effect of such choices. This absence is disappointing, as the choice of when, what, and how much needs to be made by a modeler for every learning model.
Vertebral Artery Ostial Stenosis: Prevalence by Digital Subtraction Angiography, MR Angiography, and CT Angiography
Authors: Kumar Dundamadappa Sathish , Cauley Keith
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

(1) To determine the prevalence of vertebral arterial ostial stenosis (VOS) as determined by the “gold standard” of digital subtraction angiography (DSA). (2) To learn the correlation between vertebral ostial stenosis and study indication. (3) To determine the ability of contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE MRA) and computed tomographic angiography (CTA) to reflect the true prevalence of vertebral ostial stenosis as determined by DSA.

METHODS

Three hundred and twenty‐nine patients who underwent DSA had recorded evaluation of 443 vertebral artery origins. Cases were categorized by patient age and study indication. Similar numbers of CTA and MRA studies were assessed.

RESULTS

The prevalence of VOS in the study population was 5.4%. VOS was not observed in patients under 40 years of age, and was seen in 12.5% of patients over 70 years. CE MRA demonstrated decreased signal at the vertebral origins consistent with stenosis in 20% of patients. CTA estimated VOS at .8%, and yielded 7.3% of studies, which were nondiagnostic for VOS.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of VOS as determined by DSA is low and increases with patient age and correlates with factors such as anterior infarct (18.4%), posterior infarct (33.3%), carotid atherosclerosis (30.8%), and vertebrobasilar insufficiency (33%). Patients being evaluated for reasons less closely correlated with atherosclerotic disease, such as arteriovenous malformation (AVM) or hemorrhage showed a lower prevalence of VA stenosis (brain aneurysm or AVM 5/121, 4.1%, brain hemorrhage 5/153, 3.3%). Routine clinical MRA significantly overestimates VOS prevalence, and findings suggest that CTA underestimates the degree and prevalence of VOS.
Clinical and radiographic changes at implants supporting single‐unit crowns (SCs) and fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) with one cantilever extension. A retrospective study
Authors: Aglietta Marco , Iorio Siciliano Vincenzo , Blasi Andrea , Sculean Anton , Brägger Urs , Lang Niklaus P. , Salvi Giovanni E.
Published: January 2012

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical and radiographic changes at implants in posterior maxillary and mandibular areas supporting single‐unit crowns (SCs) and fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) with one mesial or distal cantilever extension after an observation period of at least 3 years.

Material and methods

Seventeen subjects with 19 implant‐supported SCs and 21 subjects with 21 implant‐supported FDPs fulfilled the inclusion criteria. All FDPs were supported by two implants and had a span of 3–4 units. All reconstructions were incorporated in the posterior maxilla or mandible. The mesial and distal radiographic marginal bone loss from baseline (i.e. delivery of the reconstruction) to the follow‐up examination was averaged and compared between SCs supporting one cantilever extension with that of implants supporting FDPs adjacent to or distant from the cantilever extension. Changes in mean pocket probing depth (PPD) were calculated and compared between the three groups.

Results

The mean observation period was 78.2 ± 34.5 months for SCs supported by one implant and 67.8 ± 29.8 months for FDPs supported by two implants. No implant loss occurred, yielding a 100% survival rate. At baseline, the mean radiographic bone levels ± SD were 2.6 ± 0.3 mm for implants supporting SCs, 2.6 ± 0.3 mm for implants of FDPs adjacent to the cantilever extension, and 2.4 ± 0.5 mm for implants of FDPs distant from the cantilever extension. At follow‐up, the corresponding mean bone levels ± SD were 2.7 ± 0.4, 2.7 ± 0.5, and 2.8 ± 0.5 mm, respectively. No statistically significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed comparing the mean marginal bone loss between the three groups. Moreover, mean changes in PPD between baseline and follow‐up were not statistically significantly different (P > 0.05) between the three groups.

Conclusion

The presence of one mesial or distal cantilever extension in the posterior maxilla or mandible does not jeopardize the marginal bone levels of implants supporting SCs or short‐span FDPs after a mean observation period of at least 5 years.
The effect of an mGluR5 inhibitor on procedural memory and avoidance discrimination impairments in Fmr1 KO mice
Authors: Vinueza Veloz M. F. , Buijsen R. A. M. , Willemsen R. , Cupido A. , Bosman L. W. J. , Koekkoek S. K. E. , Potters J. W. , Oostra B. A. , De Zeeuw C. I.
Published: January 2012

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability. Patients with FXS do not only suffer from cognitive problems, but also from abnormalities/deficits in procedural memory formation. It has been proposed that a lack of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) leads to altered long‐term plasticity by deregulation of various translational processes at the synapses, and that part of these impairments might be rescued by the inhibition of type I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). We recently developed the Erasmus Ladder, which allows us to test, without any invasive approaches, simultaneously, both procedural memory formation and avoidance behavior during unperturbed and perturbed locomotion in mice. Here, we investigated the impact of a potent and selective mGluR5 inhibitor (Fenobam) on the behavior of Fmr1 KO mice during the Erasmus Ladder task. Fmr1 KO mice showed deficits in associative motor learning as well as avoidance behavior, both of which were rescued by intraperitoneal administration of Fenobam. While the Fmr1 KO mice did benefit from the treatment, control littermates suffered from a significant negative side effect in that their motor learning skills, but not their avoidance behavior, were significantly affected. On the basis of these studies in the FXS animal model, it may be worthwhile to investigate the effects of mGluR inhibitors on both the cognitive functions and procedural skills in FXS patients. However, the use of mGluR inhibitors appears to be strongly contraindicated in healthy controls or non‐FXS patients with intellectual disability.
Attachment and Parenting: The Mediating Role of Work‐Family Balance in Portuguese Parents of Preschool Children
Authors: Vieira Joana Marina , ÁVila Marisa , Matos Paula Mena
Published: January 2012

Given the increasingly challenging task of balancing multiple adult life roles in contemporary society, this study examined the influences of both conflicting and (positively) synergistic work and family roles in mediating associations between the quality of adult attachment and both parental satisfaction and parenting stress. Participants were 242 Portuguese fathers and mothers involved in dual‐earner relationships and in parenting preschool‐aged children. Structural Equations Modeling analyses yielded findings demonstrating that the paths from romantic attachment (avoidance and anxiety) to parenting stress and satisfaction were fully explained by work‐family dimensions, especially the conflict dimension. Implications of these findings for parent education and intervention are discussed.
Cardiac troponin I does not independently predict mortality in critically ill patients with severe sepsis
Authors: Tiruvoipati Ravindranath , Sultana Nasreen , Lewis David
Published: January 2012

Objective: Patients with sepsis often have elevated cardiac troponin I even in the absence of coronary artery disease. The prognostic value of cardiac troponins in critically ill patients with sepsis remains debatable. Our objective was to evaluate the prognostic value of cardiac troponin I in critically ill patients with severe sepsis.

Methods: In this retrospective study, we included patients with severe sepsis who had troponin assayed within 12 h of admission to intensive care over a 6 year period. Patients who had myocardial infarction at intensive care admission in the setting of sepsis were excluded. Included patients were classified into two groups based on their serum troponin I levels: low troponin group (troponin ≤ 0.1 µg/L) and elevated troponin group (troponin > 0.1 µg/L). The primary outcome of interest was hospital mortality. The secondary outcome measures included intensive care mortality, intensive care and hospital length of stay.

Results: A total of 382 patients were admitted to intensive care with sepsis. Of these, 293 patients were included in analyses. There was a statistically significant difference in hospital (15% vs 36.1%; P < 0.01) and intensive care (11% vs 25%; P < 0.01) mortality, but not in intensive care and hospital duration of stay. Logistic regression analysis revealed temperature, simplified acute physiology score II and serum lactate to be independent predictors of hospital mortality. Cardiac troponin I was not an independent predictor of hospital mortality.

Conclusion: Critically ill patients with severe sepsis who had elevated troponin had increased hospital and intensive care mortality. However, cardiac troponin I did not independently predict hospital mortality.
Endovascular treatment of very small (≤ 3 mm) intracranial aneurysms: An updated systemic review
Authors: Wong George Kwok‐Chu , Ng Rebecca Yuen‐Ting , Poon Wai‐Sang
Published: January 2012

Aim:  Previously‐published meta‐analyses have concluded that coil embolization of very small (≤ 3 mm) intracranial aneurysms carry a high risk of procedural rupture, leading to morbidity and mortality. Several case series subsequently questioned the real procedural rupture risk. We therefore carried out an updated meta‐analysis.

Patients and Methods:  Computerized EMBASE, MEDLINE and PubMed searches of the literature for reports on the safety and efficacy of treatment of intracranial aneurysms with a maximum dimension of ≤ 3 mm were carried out from January 1990 to January 2011. Statistical analyses were generated using SPSS for Windows Version 15.0 and Comprehensive MetaAnalysis 2.0 for Windows. Results of the meta‐analyses are presented with 95 per cent confidence intervals (CI).

Results:  Twelve eligible studies with 637 patients (660 aneurysms) were analysed. Procedural aneurysm rupture occurred in 39 (5.9 per cent) of 660 aneurysm treatments (random‐effect‐weighted average: 7.2 per cent; 95 per cent CI: 5.3–9.6 per cent; Q‐value: 11; I2 = 4 per cent). Immediate satisfactory occlusion was achieved in 508 (88 per cent) of 579 aneurysm treatments (random‐effect‐weighted average: 84 per cent; 95 per cent CI: 81–87 per cent; Q‐value: 48; I2 = 81 per cent). Delayed satisfactory occlusion was achieved in 379 (88 per cent) of 433 aneurysm treatments (random‐effect‐weighted average: 82 per cent; 95 per cent CI: 77–86 per cent; Q‐value: 48; I2 = 83 per cent).

Conclusions:  The present findings suggest that coiling of very small intracranial aneurysms is associated with 7.2 per cent procedural aneurysm rupture risk. Further prospective multicenter studies should be carried out in Hong Kong to review the procedural morbidity and mortality.
ROP11 GTPase Negatively Regulates ABA Signaling by Protecting ABI1 Phosphatase Activity from Inhibition by the ABA Receptor RCAR1/PYL9 in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Zixing , Li Zheng , Gao Xiang , Chinnusamy Viswanathan , Bressan Ray , Wang Zhi‐Xin , Zhu Jian‐Kang , Wu Jia‐Wei , Liu Dong
Published: January 2012

The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) regulates many key processes in plants, such as seed germination, seedling growth, and abiotic stress tolerance. In recent years, a minimal set of core components of a major ABA signaling pathway has been discovered. These components include a RCAR/PYR/PYL family of ABA receptors, a group of PP2C phosphatases, and three SnRK2 kinases. However, how the interactions between the receptors and their targets are regulated by other proteins remains largely unknown. In a companion paper published in this issue, we showed that ROP11, a member of the plant‐specific Rho‐like small GTPase family, negatively regulates multiple ABA responses in Arabidopsis. The current work demonstrated that the constitutively active ROP11 (CA‐ROP11) can modulate the RCAR1/PYL9‐mediated ABA signaling pathway based on reconstitution assays in Arabidopsis thaliana protoplasts. Furthermore, using luciferase complementation imaging, yeast two‐hybrid assays, co‐immunoprecipitation assays in Nicotiana benthamiana and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays, we demonstrated that CA‐ROP11 directly interacts with ABI1, a signaling component downstream of RCAR1/PYL9. Finally, we provided biochemical evidence that CA‐ROP11 protects ABI1 phosphatase activity from inhibition by RCAR1/PYL9 and thus negatively regulates ABA signaling in plant cells. A model of how ROP11 acts to negatively regulate ABA signaling is presented.
The expanding role of α2‐3 sialylation for leukocyte trafficking in vivo
Authors: Sperandio Markus
Published: January 2012

The ability of leukocytes to navigate through the different body compartments is an essential component for functioning immune defense and surveillance systems. In order to exit the blood circulation, leukocytes follow distinct recruitment steps, including capture of free‐flowing leukocytes to, and rolling along, the vessel wall; firm leukocyte arrest on the endothelial lining; and postarrest modifications (spreading and crawling), which prepare the leukocyte for transmigration through the vascular wall. Post‐translational glycosylation (including sialylation) has been known for many years to be functionally relevant for selectin ligands and, hence, selectin‐mediated capture and rolling. Recently, sialylation by the α2‐3 sialyltransferase ST3Gal‐IV was identified to significantly influence chemokine‐triggered firm leukocyte arrest, expanding the role of α2‐3 sialylation from leukocyte rolling to subsequent chemokine‐triggered leukocyte arrest. These findings make ST3Gal‐IV an interesting drug target for modulating leukocyte trafficking in human disorders, including autoimmune diseases and cancer.
Development and evolution of character displacement
Authors: Pfennig David W. , Pfennig Karin S.
Published: January 2012

Character displacement occurs when competition for either resources or successful reproduction imposes divergent selection on interacting species, causing divergence in traits associated with resource use or reproduction. Here, we describe how character displacement can be mediated either by genetically canalized changes (i.e., changes that reflect allelic or genotype frequency changes) or by phenotypic plasticity. We also discuss how these two mechanisms influence the tempo of character displacement. Specifically, we suggest that, under some conditions, character displacement mediated by phenotypic plasticity might occur more rapidly than that mediated by genetically canalized changes. Finally, we describe how these two mechanisms may act together and determine character displacement's mode, such that it proceeds through an initial phase in which trait divergence is environmentally induced to a later phase in which divergence becomes genetically canalized. This plasticity‐first hypothesis predicts that character displacement should be generally mediated by ancestral plasticity and that it will arise similarly in multiple, independently evolving populations. We conclude by highlighting future directions for research that would test these predictions.
Haemochromatosis in a Brazilian tapir (Tapirus terrestris) in an Australian zoo
Authors: Peters A , Raidal SR , Blake AH , Atkinson MM , Atkinson PR , Eggins GP
Published: January 2012

A 23‐year‐old Brazilian, or lowland, tapir with a 6‐month history of loss of body condition developed clinical signs and laboratory findings consistent with liver failure. The animal was euthanased and a diagnosis of hepatic haemochromatosis was made based on histopathology. Two other healthy tapirs in the same collection had chronically elevated serum and tissue iron concentrations. The excessive accumulation of iron in tissues with resultant tissue damage (i.e. haemochromatosis) has been reported in a range of captive species. This and other reported cases of haemochromatosis in the Brazilian tapir would suggest that this condition is an important consideration in the management of this species in zoos. Further research into the endogenous regulation of iron metabolism, especially the role of hepcidin, in tapirs and other species at risk of iron storage disorders may be helpful in the prevention of this condition.
Large spatial scale effects of rising temperatures: modelling a dragonfly’s life cycle and range throughout Europe
Authors: SÖNDGERATH DAGMAR , RUMMLAND JANIN , SUHLING FRANK
Published: January 2012

Abstract. 1. Rising environmental temperature will likely affect life cycle and range of species. To forecast such effects in an odonate, we simulated the continent‐wide life cycle distribution pattern and range of a dragonfly applying a dynamic population model.

2. The model was used to investigate how much of the current voltinism patterns and distribution range of the species are correctly predicted by using temperature and day length as the only environmental factors. We forecasted the range and voltinism changes on a European extent for the year 2050 using one GCM (CSIRO) driven by one greenhouse gas emission scenario (b2a) according to the IPCC.

3. The model run lead to 80% correctly predicted distribution range, with a sensitivity of 94% and a specificity of 55%, the latter because of high error in predicting absence in southern Europe.

4. The projected voltinism ranged from 1 to 2 years per generation in southern latitudes to 5 years in the north. A comparison with field data indicated correct predictions in 50% of all cases, while the other 50% were slight over‐ or underestimates by half a year per generation.

5. We conclude that the model led to sufficient predictions of range as well as of life cycle pattern in central and northern Europe. Wrong predictions of presence for southern Europe may be caused by factors not recognised in the model, likely competition by con generics, while incorrect voltinism was possibly because of habitat effects.

6. Simulations with increased temperature scenarios implied a future northward shift of the fundamental niche and a decreased development duration towards the northern range.
Small molecule screening identifies targetable zebrafish pigmentation pathways
Authors: Colanesi Sarah , Taylor Kerrie L. , Temperley Nicholas D. , Lundegaard Pia R. , Liu Dong , North Trista E. , Ishizaki Hironori , Kelsh Robert N. , Patton E. Elizabeth
Published: January 2012

Small molecules complement genetic mutants and can be used to probe pigment cell biology by inhibiting specific proteins or pathways. Here, we present the results of a screen of active compounds for those that affect the processes of melanocyte and iridophore development in zebrafish and investigate the effects of a few of these compounds in further detail. We identified and confirmed 57 compounds that altered pigment cell patterning, number, survival, or differentiation. Additional tissue targets and toxicity of small molecules are also discussed. Given that the majority of cell types, including pigment cells, are conserved between zebrafish and other vertebrates, we present these chemicals as molecular tools to study developmental processes of pigment cells in living animals and emphasize the value of zebrafish as an in vivo system for testing the on‐ and off‐target activities of clinically active drugs.
High precision oxygen three‐isotope analyses of anhydrous chondritic interplanetary dust particles
Authors: NAKASHIMA Daisuke , USHIKUBO Takayuki , ZOLENSKY Michael E. , KITA Noriko T.
Published: January 2012

Abstract– Oxygen three‐isotope ratios of three anhydrous chondritic interplanetary dust particles (IDPs) were analyzed using an ion microprobe with a 2 μm small beam. The three anhydrous IDPs show Δ17O values ranging from −5‰ to +1‰, which overlap with those of ferromagnesian silicate particles from comet Wild 2 and anhydrous porous IDPs. For the first time, internal oxygen isotope heterogeneity was resolved in two IDPs at the level of a few per mil in Δ17O values. Anhydrous IDPs are loose aggregates of fine‐grained silicates (≤3 μm in this study), with only a few coarse‐grained silicates (2–20 μm in this study). On the other hand, Wild 2 particles analyzed so far show relatively coarse‐grained (≥ few μm) igneous textures. If anhydrous IDPs represent fine‐grained particles from comets, the similar Δ17O values between anhydrous IDPs and Wild 2 particles may imply that oxygen isotope ratios in cometary crystalline silicates are similar, independent of crystal sizes and their textures. The range of Δ17O values of the three anhydrous IDPs overlaps also with that of chondrules in carbonaceous chondrites, suggesting a genetic link between cometary dust particles (Wild 2 particles and most anhydrous IDPs) and carbonaceous chondrite chondrules.
An appraisal of the risk–need–responsivity (RNR) model of offender rehabilitation and its application in correctional treatment
Authors: Polaschek Devon L. L.
Published: January 2012

The science of effective offender rehabilitation remains a very young field: dominated theoretically and empirically by the work of a small group of Canadian psychologists. Their achievements include the ‘what works’ research literature, and the RNR model of offender rehabilitation. First disseminated in 1990, over the following 20 years, the Risk, Need and Responsivity Principles became the core of the theoretical framework used in those correctional systems around the world that use science as a basis for offender rehabilitation. This paper evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of the RNR model as a Level I rehabilitation framework. It proposes that unrealistic expectations and mistranslations of the model into practice are contributing to concerns about its validity and utility, and stifling needed innovation in the development both of mid‐level treatment resources, and of RNR‐adherent interventions. It concludes that although the RNR model's empirical validity and practical utility justify its place as the dominant model, it is not the ‘last word’ on offender rehabilitation; there is much work still to be done.
Influence Coefficients for Open-Crown Hemispheres
Authors: Galletly G. D.
Published: January 2012

Stresses and deflections of hemispherical shells with nozzle openings lying on the axis of symmetry may be determined accurately and rapidly with the aid of the tables given in the paper. The tables give the influence coefficients (i.e., stresses and deflections obtained with unit applied loads) for the edge and interior points for various types of edge bending load. The radius-thickness ratios of the hemispherical shells considered varied from 15 to 250; the total central angle of the opening varied from twenty to one hundred degrees. An illustration of the utility of the coefficients is given by considering a hemisphere-cylinder intersection problem.
Pressurization of Granular Solid Fuels
Authors: Aref M. N.
Published: January 2012

The different methods of pressurizing powdered solid fuels which have been developed are reviewed briefly, including proposals as well as those in operation. The work has been devoted particularly to a study of the characteristics of these pressurizers, in relation to their common problems of: (a) Power loss due to venting the pressurizing air, (b) wear of the surfaces in contact with the solids, and (c) effective sealing. The most practical methods have been compared on power loss, rather than power required in their cycles. It has been found that power loss due to air venting cannot be totally eliminated and that the simple lock hopper is, so far, the best available device which has the lower capital cost, maintenance requirements, power loss, and better reliability. Where space is of major importance, however, the lock hopper with a moving wall can be considered as an alternative, though it may suffer from an increased wear rate and a reduced volumetric efficiency.
Considerations for the Reduction of Noise in Ship Installations of Gas Turbines
Authors: Herrmann Edward M.
Published: January 2012

General noise reduction considerations for shipboard installation of gas turbines are discussed. Specific information relating to sound-absorption materials, duct treatments, structureborne sound isolation, and airborne sound insulation is graphically presented.
Telemetry System Integrated in a Small Gas Turbine Engine
Authors: Long Stephen A , Edney Stephen L , Reiger Patrick A , Elliott Michael W , Knabe Frank , Bernhard Dieter
Published: January 2012

For the purpose of assessing combustion effects in a small gas turbine engine, there was a requirement to evaluate the rotating temperature and dynamic characteristics of the power turbine rotor module. This assessment required measurements be taken within the engine, during operation up to maximum power, using rotor mounted thermocouples and strain gauges. The acquisition of this data necessitated the use of a telemetry system that could be integrated into the existing engine architecture without affecting performance. As a result of space constraints, housing of the telemetry module was limited to placement in a hot section. To tolerate the high temperature environment, a cooling system was developed as part of the integration effort to maintain telemetry module temperatures within the limit allowed by the electronics. Finite element thermal analysis was used to guide the design of the cooling system. This was to ensure that sufficient airflow was introduced and appropriately distributed to cool the telemetry cavity, and hence electronics, without affecting the performance of the engine. Presented herein is a discussion of the telemetry system, instrumentation design philosophy, cooling system design and verification, and sample of the results acquired through successful execution of the full engine test program.
Eddie Leonardi Memorial Lecture: “Natural Convection From Earth to Space”
Authors: Timchenko Victoria
Published: January 2012

This lecture is dedicated to the memory of Professor Eddie Leonardi, formerly International Heat Transfer Conference (IHTC-13) Secretary, who tragically died at an early age on December 14, 2008. Eddie Leonardi had a large range of research interests: he worked in both computational fluid dynamics/heat transfer and refrigeration and air-conditioning for over 25 years. However starting from his Ph.D. ‘A numerical study of the effects of fluid properties on natural convection’ awarded in 1984, one of his main passions has been natural convection and therefore the focus of this lecture will be on what Eddie Leonardi has achieved in numerical and experimental investigations of laminar natural convective flows. A number of examples will be presented which illustrate important difficulties of numerical calculations and experimental comparisons. Eddie Leonardi demonstrated that variable properties have important effects and significant differences occur when different fluids are used, so that dimensionless formulation is not appropriate when dealing with flows of fluids with significant changes in transport properties. Difficulties in comparing numerical solutions with either numerically generated data or experimental results will be discussed with reference to two-dimensional natural convection and three-dimensional Rayleigh–Bénard convection. For a number of years Eddie Leonardi was involved in a joint US-French-Australian research program—the MEPHISTO experiment on crystal growth—and studied the effects of convection on solidification and melting under microgravity conditions. Some results of this research will be described. Finally, some results of experimental and numerical studies of natural convection for building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) applications in which Eddie Leonardi had been working in the last few years will be also presented.