bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A simple device to collect, store and study samples of two-dimensional spider webs
Authors: RAMÍREZ MARTÍN J. , RAVELO ALEXANDRA M. , LOPARDO LARA
Published: December 2013

Silk production and spinning are the most prominent characteristics of spiders (Araneae). The high diversity of web architectures correlates both with preying behaviors and with the ultra-structure of the silk threads that compose the webs, which in turn have a corresponding diversity of silk gland spigot complements. The details of web construction, thread structure, and gland spigot morphology have proven extremely informative for phylogenetic hypotheses (e.g., Eberhard 1982, 1988; Eberhard & Pereira 1993; Coddington 1989; Griswold et al. 2005; Hormiga et al. 1995; Lopardo & Ramírez 2007; Platnick et al. 1991; Agnarsson & Blackledge 2009; Eberhard 2010), and a fascinating system to study spider diversification and evolutionary trends (e.g., Opell 1996; Opell & Bond 2000; Blackledge et al. 2009, 2012; Dimitrov et al. 2012).
Local Trial Court Response to Courthouse Safety
Authors: Faust Thomas , Raffo Michael
Published: December 2013

The National Sheriffs' Association, along with its affiliate, the International Association of Court Officers and Services, provides training and support to improve and upgrade the readiness of local court security officers, deputies, and court personnel. Awareness, prevention, and control are critical components to ensure a safe, orderly environment for the judicial administration of our court systems. Local courthouses have become more volatile and susceptible to workplace violence. This article details steps and preventive planning that all sheriffs' offices and other court security operations should take into account regardless of resources, size, or operational complexity.
Jiang Shigong 强世功 on “Written and Unwritten Constitutions” and Their Relevance to Chinese Constitutionalism
Authors: Backer Larry Catá
Published: December 2013

Chinese constitutionalism is usually analyzed and found wanting in the West. The deficiencies of Chinese constitutionalism stem in part from its differences from the forms and sensibilities of governmental organization common in the West. But constitutionalism ought not to be reversed engineered to support a particular approach to its operationalization. This article considers the extent to which Chinese constitutionalism is both true to emerging global principles of constitutionalism and how those principles might be applied in a distinctly Chinese way while remaining true to the objectives of transnational constitutionalist principles. The constitutionally significant distinction at the root of the Chinese way of constitutionalism lies in its separation of powers doctrine, one that divides power between political and administrative functions and which does not vest the whole of the power of state in a government. The examination is undertaken through a close engagement with Jiang Shigong’s study of the foundations of Chinese constitutionalism within the context of universalist principles of legitimate constitutional expression.
Is Nadeshiko Japan “Feminine?” Manufacturing Sport Celebrity and National Identity on Japanese Morning Television
Authors: Ho Michelle H. S.
Published: December 2013

When the Japan women’s soccer team, more affectionately dubbed “Nadeshiko Japan,” emerged FIFA World Cup champions in 2011, its members became celebrities overnight. However, central to their celebrityhood is the media’s obsession with “femininity.” Through constructing sport celebrities, or tarento (“talents”), I argue that the Japanese media shift between representations of Nadeshiko Japan as glorified national athletes and as trivialized “feminine” figures. Following Michel Foucault’s concept of “power” as relational, these structures dominate, and are in turn challenged by, the Nadeshiko members. Through close textual analysis of Japanese morning talk show, Sukkiri!!, this article explores how Nadeshiko Japan offers its primary audience, women, alternative forms of subjectivity. Using a cultural studies approach, this recent study of Japan reweighs gender anxieties surrounding athletes in the media.
Some analytical and numerical expressions for evaluation of the critical J-integral in plates with blunt V-notches under Mode I loading
Authors: Noori-Azghad Fatemeh , Khademizadeh Hasan , Barati Ehsan
Published: December 2013

The main aim of this article is to propose some analytical and numerical expressions for evaluation of the critical value of the J-integral (Jcr) in plates weakened by blunt V-notches under Mode I loading for brittle or quasi-brittle materials. The critical J-integral is a material property in cracks. In notches, however, the specimen geometry also affects this parameter. In analytical expression, the relationship between J-integral and strain-energy density has been applied in order to evaluate the Jcr. The strain-energy density distribution over the semicircular arc of the notch (i.e. the parameter δ proposed in some previous articles) has also been used to derive a numerical equation for evaluation of the Jcr. The results have shown that the normalized Jcr (Jcr/JIC), that is, the ratio of the critical J-integral in notches to one in cracks, is a function of RC/ρ ratio, notch angle (2α), and Poisson’s ratio. The loading condition (bending or tensile loading), the ratio of the specimen width to the notch depth (w/a), and the notch acuity (a/ρ) have negligible effect on the normalized Jcr, for constant values of other parameters. Good agreement was found in critical fracture load evaluated by means of the Jcr criterion (using the proposed equations) with experimental data taken from the literature for blunt V-notches under Mode I loading.
Gender, Social Background, and the Choice of College Major in a Liberal Arts Context
Authors: Mullen Ann L.
Published: December 2013

Enduring disparities in choice of college major constitute one of the most significant forms of gender inequality among undergraduate students. The existing literature generally equates major choice with career choice and overlooks possible variation across student populations. This is a significant limitation because gender differences in major choice among liberal arts students, who attend college less for specific career training and more for broader learning objectives, are just as great as among those choosing pre-professional majors. This study addresses this gap by examining how privileged men and women at an elite, liberal arts university select their fields of study. Drawing on in-depth interviews, findings contradict the prevailing assumption of a unitary model of major choice as career choice by revealing a plurality of gendered meanings around choosing a field of study. Majors may play an important part in the construction of an intellectual identity as much as a means of career preparation. How students approach the choice relates to both gender and social background. For privileged students, traditional gendered associations with bodies of knowledge hold salience in their decision making as well as expectations of reproducing future elite family roles. This research also illuminates how gendered processes of choosing fields of study take place in relationship to particular institutional contexts.
Functional Magnetic resonance Imaging Clinical Trial of a Dual-Processing Treatment Protocol for Substance-Dependent Adults
Authors: Matto Holly C. , Hadjiyane Maria C. , Kost Michelle , Marshall Jennifer , Wiley Joseph , Strolin-Goltzman Jessica , Khatiwada Manish , VanMeter John W.
Published: December 2013

Objectives:

Empirical evidence suggests substance dependence creates stress system dysregulation which, in turn, may limit the efficacy of verbal-based treatment interventions, as the recovering brain may not be functionally capable of executive level processing. Treatment models that target implicit functioning are necessary.

Methods:

An RCT was conducted to examine the effects of a dual-processing (DP) intervention compared to a didactic standard care (RP) model on brain function change in substance-dependent adults (N=29).

Results:

fMRI analyses showed decreased amygdala activation simultaneous with increased frontal lobe (medial frontal gyrus and ACC) activation in the DP group during passive watch condition, while the RP group showed continued amygdala activation simultaneous to frontal lobe activation during drug stressor presentation at post-treatment.

Conclusions:

Our study offers preliminary evidence that DP acts on neural functioning in ways that increase regulatory response in the presence of drug stressor cues by enhancing top-down functioning and diminishing amygdala reactivity.
Communication Challenges in the Hospital Setting
Authors: Burleson Debra
Published: December 2013

Hospitals have encountered significant changes since implementing the hospitalist model. The changes have been most prevalent in the communication between patients, primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitalists. This comparative case study examines hospitalists’ and patients’ perceptions of communication challenges. During interviews, hospitalists reported that most of their communication challenges related to patients and their families. But during group sessions, hospitalists reported that less than one third of their communication challenges related to patients and their families. A comparison of patients’ and hospitalists’ perceptions demonstrates that there are critical gaps in patient education that affect patients’ care and their trust in their caregivers.
Noteworthy Articles in 2013 for Cardiothoracic Anesthesiologists
Authors: Hilberath Jan N. , Muehlschlegel J. Daniel
Published: December 2013

In 2013, the field of cardiothoracic anesthesiology has continued to grow at the same astounding rate as in previous years. It has become increasingly difficult for practicing anesthesiologists to stay current on impactful publications related to our exciting subspecialty. The scientific output has expanded to such a great extent that following the literature in specialty journals barely scrapes the surface of available knowledge. With the recent emphasis on teamwork spanning multiple medical specialties in the care for complex patients, the door has opened for our research to be presented in nontraditional, nonanesthesiology venues. In this review, we have selected a small sample of noteworthy contributions to the field of cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesiology published in 2013 with potential impact on our clinical practice.
The Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing but the Ground-Truth
Authors: Sadd James , Morello-Frosch Rachel , Pastor Manuel , Matsuoka Martha , Prichard Michele , Carter Vanessa
Published: December 2013

Environmental justice advocates often argue that environmental hazards and their health effects vary by neighborhood, income, and race. To assess these patterns and advance preventive policy, their colleagues in the research world often use complex and methodologically sophisticated statistical and geospatial techniques. One way to bridge the gap between the technical work and the expert knowledge of local residents is through community-based participatory research strategies. We document how an environmental justice screening method was coupled with “ground-truthing”—a project in which community members worked with researchers to collect data across six Los Angeles neighborhoods—which demonstrated the clustering of potentially hazardous facilities, high levels of air pollution, and elevated health risks. We discuss recommendations and implications for future research and collaborations between researchers and community-based organizations.
Embodied site-specific animation
Authors: Samanci Ozge
Published: December 2013

Embodied site-specific animation is one of the ways of expanding the conventions of animation and rethinking the animation medium in the digital context. On the air is an interactive installation based on embodied site-specific animation. Existing installations that are based on embodied site-specific animations rely on abstract visualizations and do not attempt to tell a story or portray characters. I am exploring the design strategies and new meaning-making opportunities that arise with the use of embodied site-specific animation for mixed reality art projects.
World Rally Championships 2009 and 2011
Authors: Mackellar Joanne , Reis Arianne C
Published: December 2013

The World Rally Championship (WRC) is an international event, staged in 12 different countries and attracting up to 225,000 spectators in some of its European stages. However, while WRC events provide opportunities for destinations around the world, there is a lack of empirical research on the impacts of these events on host communities, or their contribution to tourism. The purpose of this article is to provide a case study of the WRC stages held in Australia in 2009 and 2011. The study examines the event in terms of its perceived tourism value, its promotional value and the resultant opportunities for local business within the context of regional tourism in Australia. Issues for measuring the media value of events are discussed in relation to the two WRC events, along with implications for maximising local business and media opportunities. The analysis in this study has shown that the WRC does have the capacity to attract visitors, provide opportunities for local business and generate international media attention, but there are limits and restrictions to the efficacy of these outcomes.
Culinary preferences of foreign tourists in India
Authors: Updhyay Yogesh , Sharma Dhiraj
Published: December 2013

Realizing the growing importance of culinary tourism, the present study explores culinary preferences of foreign tourists through surveys conducted at various tourist spots in India. In order to identify latent factors beneath, data related to preferences were factor analyzed. The outcome of the analysis suggests that tourists’ preferences converge into five factors, namely, taste and quality of food, food preparation, localization of food and dining etiquettes, tradition and nutrition of food, and food aroma and cleanliness. Furthermore, convergence in foreign tourists was also explored based on their responses. From the analysis, three segments emerged, namely, taste seekers, localization seekers and experience seekers. The study also discusses the implications of the outcome for marketers and researchers.
How do Europeans travel in Australia? Examining cultural convergence in travel behaviour
Authors: Muskat Birgit , Muskat Matthias , Richardson Alice
Published: December 2013

The impacts of globalisation and cultural convergence theory have been discussed in various research areas. Scholars agree that global consumer behaviour becomes increasingly homogenous. However, in tourism, there is still evidence that visitor markets are distinguished and segmented according to their nationality. This study argues that national borders have lost in significance to separate markets. By means of a correspondence analysis, this study provides evidence that European travel behaviour in Australia shows similar activity patterns. The findings highlight that country-based visitor segmentation has lost momentum.
Boaters’ Perceptions of a Mobile App for a Marine Conservation Social Marketing Campaign
Authors: Bowerman Kamra , DeLorme Denise E.
Published: December 2013

This case study explored recreational boaters’ perceptions of a mobile app being developed in the context of a campaign to promote environmental responsibility in a U.S. Florida lagoon. Transcripts from six focus groups conducted with a target population of boaters to guide the conservation campaign were analyzed to identify and understand the barriers and benefits of the app that may influence its adoption with the desired behavior of better navigating the lagoon. Extant literature on social marketing and adoption and diffusion theory informed analysis. Overall, the results uncovered five perceived benefits and seven perceived barriers to adoption of the mobile app. Participants were interested in the app and had generally favorable reactions. They thought the app could fill a gap in boating technology and provide geographic information useful for improving the boating experience and health of the marine environment. However, there were also questions about the app’s purpose for the campaign and its ability to provide the quality and quantity of information desired for certain features. While some of this study’s identified benefits and barriers were consistent with the literature, others appeared unique to this social marketing and marine environment situation. The article concludes with a discussion of theoretical connections, practical implications, and future research recommendations.
Micro-electro-mechanical systems-based micro-electromagnetic vibration energy harvester
Authors: Lei Yi-ming , Chen Li , Wen Zhi-yu
Published: December 2013

We developed a simple and efficient micro-electromagnetic energy harvester based on micro-electro-mechanical systems technology. For processes of electromagnetic vibration energy harvesters in the presence of the magnet, the compatibility with the micro-electro-mechanical systems processing is not good. Therefore, we have adopted a method of micro-assembly production energy harvester. The energy harvester mainly consists of a resonator chip processed by micro-electro-mechanical systems and a winding coil. The total volume of the energy harvesters is 0.95 cm3. Test results show that the energy harvester generated a maximum load power of 116.64 µW across 400 Ω load at 291.4 Hz for an acceleration of 0.5 g ( g = 9.8 m/s2) after the optimization of the parameters.
Nonlocal Timoshenko beam model for dynamic stability of double-walled boron nitride nanotubes conveying nanoflow
Authors: Ghorbanpour Arani Ali , Hashemian Mohammad , Kolahchi Reza
Published: December 2013

Based on nonlocal piezoelasticity theory, dynamic stability of double-walled boron nitride nanotube conveying viscous fluid is investigated using Timoshenko beam theory. Double-walled boron nitride nanotube is surrounded in visco-Pasternak medium and conducts the internal fluid. Modified Navier–Stokes relation is used to evaluate fluid–double-walled boron nitride nanotube interaction considering the effects of bulk viscosity and slip boundary condition. Mechanical harmonic excitation and thermal loadings are exerted on double-walled boron nitride nanotube with zero electrical boundary condition. Nonlinear van der Waals forces between the inner and outer layers of double-walled boron nitride nanotube are taken into account. Hamilton’s principle is utilized to derive governing equations with regard to von Kármán geometric nonlinearity. Charge equation is used to consider the coupling of electric potential and mechanical displacement. Space and time domains are discretized using Galerkin and incremental harmonic balance approaches. Finally the eigenvalue equations are solved based on the iterative method to derive dynamic instability regions. The detailed parametric study is conducted, focusing on the combined effects of aspect ratio, nonlocal parameter, fluid velocity, Knudsen number, thermal changes, van der Waals forces and surrounding medium on dynamic instability regions of double-walled boron nitride nanotube.
Microbicidal effects of α- and θ-defensins against antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Tai Kenneth P , Kamdar Karishma , Yamaki Jason , Le Valerie V , Tran Dat , Tran Patti , Selsted Michael E , Ouellette André J , Wong-Beringer Annie
Published: December 2013

Antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogens threaten public health. Because many antibiotics target specific bacterial enzymes or reactions, corresponding genes may mutate under selection and lead to antibiotic resistance. Accordingly, antimicrobials that selectively target overall microbial cell integrity may offer alternative approaches to therapeutic design. Naturally occurring mammalian α- and θ-defensins are potent, non-toxic microbicides that may be useful for treating infections by antibiotic-resistant pathogens because certain defensin peptides disrupt bacterial, but not mammalian, cell membranes. To test this concept, clinical isolates of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), including vancomycin heteroresistant strains, and ciprofloxacin-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CipR-PA) were tested for sensitivity to α-defensins Crp-4, RMAD-4 and HNPs 1-3, and to RTD-1, macaque θ-defensin-1. In vitro, 3 μM Crp-4, RMAD-4 and RTD-1 reduced MRSA cell survival by 99%, regardless of vancomycin susceptibility. For PA clinical isolates that differ in fluoroquinolone resistance and virulence phenotype, peptide efficacy was independent of strain ciprofloxacin resistance, site of isolation or virulence factor expression. Thus, Crp-4, RMAD-4 and RTD-1 are effective in vitro antimicrobials against clinical isolates of MRSA and CipR-PA, perhaps providing templates for development of α- and θ-defensin-based microbicides against antibiotic resistant or virulent infectious agents.
Philosophical Paradigms, Grounded Theory, and Perspectives on Emergence
Authors: Levers Merry-Jo D.
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this article is to present a plausible framework to initiate discussion regarding the concept of emergence in grounded theory. Using ontological and epistemological positions to develop three research paradigms, and applying these paradigms to various uptakes of grounded theory demonstrates differences in the definition of emergence. Discovery emergence is presented as a unidirectional relationship between the constituent parts (data) and the emergent property (theory) observed by an external postpositivist grounded theorist. Mechanistic emergence is presented as having a bidirectional relationship between the constituent part (data) and the emergent property (theory) observed by an external constructionist grounded theorist. Finally, reflective emergence is presented as having a bidirectional relationship between the constituent parts (data) and the emergent property (theory) interpreted by an interpretivist grounded theorist.
Practical Considerations
Authors: Cox Genevieve R. , Tucker Corinna Jenkins , Sharp Erin Hiley , Gundy Karen T. Van , Rebellon Cesar J.
Published: December 2013

We examine how aspects of community context (i.e., social and familial attachments, attachment to place, and economic environment) are linked to rural emerging adults’ educational and occupational experiences and aspirations. We use a year of qualitative interview data and 2 years of longitudinal survey data to explore how community context may shape two groups of rural emerging adults’ aspirations for those who remain in their rural home community posthigh school graduation and those who leave after high school to seek opportunities elsewhere. We found that the declining economic context of these rural communities shaped educational and occupational aspirations of both groups toward practically focused occupations. Interviewees struggled to balance their positive community attachments with the area’s lack of occupational opportunities. Our work uniquely underscores that analysis of community context may be a key to understanding emerging adults’ educational and occupational pathways and aspirations in economically strained rural environments.
Growth differentiating factor 15 enhances the tumor-initiating and self-renewal potential of multiple myeloma cells
Authors: Tanno Toshihiko , Lim Yiting , Wang Qiuju , Chesi Marta , Bergsagel P. Leif , Matthews Geoff , Johnstone Ricky W. , Ghosh Nilanjan , Borrello Ivan , Huff Carol Ann , Matsui William
Published: December 2013

Key Points

The tumor microenvironment drives myeloma cell clonogenic growth and self-renewal through GDF15.
Cost of anxiety disorders in Japan in 2008: a prevalence-based approach
Authors: Sado Mitsuhiro , Takechi Sayuri , Inagaki Ataru , Fujisawa Daisuke , Koreki Akihiro , Mimura Masaru , Yoshimura Kimio
Published: December 2013

Background

The societal burden caused by anxiety disorders has likely been underestimated, while those for schizophrenia and depression have received more attention. Anxiety disorders represent a significant illness category that occurs at a high prevalence and poses a considerable burden. However, the cost of anxiety disorders in Japan has not yet been well researched. The goal of the present study was to estimate the total cost of anxiety disorders in Japan and to clarify the characteristics of this burden.

Method

A prevalence-based approach was adopted to measure the total cost of anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders were defined as diagnosis code F40.0-F41.9 according to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision. The cost was comprised of the following components: medical treatment costs and social service costs as direct costs, and morbidity and mortality costs as indirect costs. Data were collected from publicly available statistics.

Results

The total cost of anxiety disorders in Japan in 2008 was JPY 2.4 trillion (US$ 20.5 billion at the current exchange rate of US$1 = JPY 116.8). The direct cost was JPY 50 billion. The morbidity cost was JPY 2.1 trillion, while the mortality cost was JPY 0.24 trillion.

Conclusions

The social burden caused by anxiety disorders in Japan is tremendous and is similar to that of other mental disorders. Productivity loss in the workplace represents the largest portion of all the cost components. Because the medical examination rate is quite low, the improvement of healthcare access might contribute to cost mitigation.
Cellular and temporal expression of NADPH oxidase (NOX) isotypes after brain injury
Authors: Cooney Sean J , Bermudez-Sabogal Sara L , Byrnes Kimberly R
Published: December 2013

Background

Brain injury results in an increase in the activity of the reactive oxygen species generating NADPH oxidase (NOX) enzymes. Preliminary studies have shown that NOX2, NOX3, and NOX4 are the most prominently expressed NOX isotypes in the brain. However, the cellular and temporal expression profile of these isotypes in the injured and non-injured brain is currently unclear.

Methods

Double immunofluorescence for NOX isotypes and brain cell types was performed at acute (24 hours), sub-acute (7 days), and chronic (28 days) time points after controlled cortical impact-induced brain injury or sham-injury in rats.

Results

NOX2, NOX3, and NOX4 isotypes were found to be expressed in neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, and this expression was dependent on both cellular source and post-injury time. NOX4 was found in all cell types assessed, while NOX3 was positively identified in neurons only, and NOX2 was identified in microglia and neurons. NOX2 was the most responsive to injury, increasing primarily in microglia in response to injury. Quantitation of this isotype showed a significant increase in NOX2 expression at 24 hours, with reduced expression at 7 days and 28 days post-injury, although expression remained above sham levels at later time points. Cellular confirmation using purified primary or cell line culture demonstrated similar patterns in microglia, astrocytes, and neurons. Further, inhibition of NOX, and more specifically NOX2, reduced pro-inflammatory activity in microglia, demonstrating that NOX is not only up-regulated after stimulation, but may also play a significant role in post-injury neuroinflammation.

Conclusions

This study illustrates the expression profiles of NOX isotypes in the brain after injury, and demonstrates that NOX2, and to a lesser extent, NOX4, may be responsible for the majority of oxidative stress observed acutely after traumatic brain injury. These data may provide insight into the design of future therapeutic approaches.
Application of personalized medicine to chronic disease: a feasibility assessment
Authors: Dorfman Ruslan , Khayat Zayna , Sieminowski Tammy , Golden Brian , Lyons Renee
Published: December 2013

Personalized Medicine has the potential to improve health outcomes and reduce the cost of care; however its adoption has been slow in Canada. Bridgepoint Health is a complex continuous care provider striving to reduce the burden of polypharmacy in chronic patients. The main goal of the study was to explore the feasibility of utilizing personalized medicine in the treatment of chronic complex patients as a preliminary institutional health technology assessment. We analyzed stroke treatment optimization as a clinical indication that could serve as a “proof of concept” for the widespread implementation of pharmacogenetics. The objectives of the study were three‐fold:

Review current practice in medication administration for stroke treatment at Bridgepoint Health

Critically analyze evidence that pharmacogenetic testing could (or could not) enhance drug selection and treatment efficacy for stroke patients;

Assess the cost‐benefit potential of a pharmacogenetic intervention for stroke.

Review current practice in medication administration for stroke treatment at Bridgepoint Health

Critically analyze evidence that pharmacogenetic testing could (or could not) enhance drug selection and treatment efficacy for stroke patients;

Assess the cost‐benefit potential of a pharmacogenetic intervention for stroke.

We conducted a review of stroke treatment practices at Bridgepoint Health, scanned the literature for drug‐gene and drug‐outcome interactions, and evaluated the potential consequences of pharmacogenetic testing using the ACCE model.

There is a substantial body of evidence suggesting that pharmacogenetic stratification of stroke treatment can improve patient outcomes in the long‐term, and provide substantial efficiencies for the healthcare system in the short‐term. Specifically, pharmacogenetic stratification of antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapies for stroke patients may have a major impact on the risk of disease recurrence, and thus should be explored further for clinical application. Bridgepoint Health, and other healthcare institutions taking this path, should consider launching pilot projects to assess the practical impact of pharmacogenetics to optimize treatment for chronic continuous care.
Data management in cloud environments: NoSQL and NewSQL data stores
Authors: Grolinger Katarina , Higashino Wilson A , Tiwari Abhinav , Capretz Miriam AM
Published: December 2013

Advances in Web technology and the proliferation of mobile devices and sensors connected to the Internet have resulted in immense processing and storage requirements. Cloud computing has emerged as a paradigm that promises to meet these requirements. This work focuses on the storage aspect of cloud computing, specifically on data management in cloud environments. Traditional relational databases were designed in a different hardware and software era and are facing challenges in meeting the performance and scale requirements of Big Data. NoSQL and NewSQL data stores present themselves as alternatives that can handle huge volume of data. Because of the large number and diversity of existing NoSQL and NewSQL solutions, it is difficult to comprehend the domain and even more challenging to choose an appropriate solution for a specific task. Therefore, this paper reviews NoSQL and NewSQL solutions with the objective of: (1) providing a perspective in the field, (2) providing guidance to practitioners and researchers to choose the appropriate data store, and (3) identifying challenges and opportunities in the field. Specifically, the most prominent solutions are compared focusing on data models, querying, scaling, and security related capabilities. Features driving the ability to scale read requests and write requests, or scaling data storage are investigated, in particular partitioning, replication, consistency, and concurrency control. Furthermore, use cases and scenarios in which NoSQL and NewSQL data stores have been used are discussed and the suitability of various solutions for different sets of applications is examined. Consequently, this study has identified challenges in the field, including the immense diversity and inconsistency of terminologies, limited documentation, sparse comparison and benchmarking criteria, and nonexistence of standardized query languages.
The LC3 interactome at a glance
Authors: Wild Philipp , McEwan David G. , Dikic Ivan
Published: December 2013

Continuous synthesis of all cellular components requires their constant turnover in order for a cell to achieve homeostasis. To this end, eukaryotic cells are endowed with two degradation pathways – the ubiquitin-proteasome system and the lysosomal pathway. The latter pathway is partly fed by autophagy, which targets intracellular material in distinct vesicles, termed autophagosomes, to the lysosome. Central to this pathway is a set of key autophagy proteins, including the ubiquitin-like modifier Atg8, that orchestrate autophagosome initiation and biogenesis. In higher eukaryotes, the Atg8 family comprises six members known as the light chain 3 (LC3) or γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-receptor-associated protein (GABARAP) proteins. Considerable effort during the last 15 years to decipher the molecular mechanisms that govern autophagy has significantly advanced our understanding of the functioning of this protein family. In this Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster, we present the current LC3 protein interaction network, which has been and continues to be vital for gaining insight into the regulation of autophagy.
Surviving in a frozen desert: environmental stress physiology of terrestrial Antarctic arthropods
Authors: Teets Nicholas M. , Denlinger David L.
Published: December 2013

Abiotic stress is one of the primary constraints limiting the range and success of arthropods, and nowhere is this more apparent than Antarctica. Antarctic arthropods have evolved a suite of adaptations to cope with extremes in temperature and water availability. Here, we review the current state of knowledge regarding the environmental physiology of terrestrial arthropods in Antarctica. To survive low temperatures, mites and Collembola are freeze-intolerant and rely on deep supercooling, in some cases supercooling below −30°C. Also, some of these microarthropods are capable of cryoprotective dehydration to extend their supercooling capacity and reduce the risk of freezing. In contrast, the two best-studied Antarctic insects, the midges Belgica antarctica and Eretmoptera murphyi, are freeze-tolerant year-round and rely on both seasonal and rapid cold-hardening to cope with decreases in temperature. A common theme among Antarctic arthropods is extreme tolerance of dehydration; some accomplish this by cuticular mechanisms to minimize water loss across their cuticle, while a majority have highly permeable cuticles but tolerate upwards of 50–70% loss of body water. Molecular studies of Antarctic arthropod stress physiology are still in their infancy, but several recent studies are beginning to shed light on the underlying mechanisms that govern extreme stress tolerance. Some common themes that are emerging include the importance of cuticular and cytoskeletal rearrangements, heat shock proteins, metabolic restructuring and cell recycling pathways as key mediators of cold and water stress in the Antarctic.
Neurobiological disease etiology and inheritance: an epigenetic perspective
Authors: Saab Bechara J. , Mansuy Isabelle M.
Published: December 2013

Epigenetic marks in mammals are essential to properly control the activity of the genome. They are dynamically regulated during development and adulthood, and can be modulated by environmental factors throughout life. Changes in the epigenetic profile of a cell can be positive and favor the expression of advantageous genes such as those linked to cell signaling and tumor suppression. However, they can also be detrimental and alter the functions of important genes, thereby leading to disease. Recent evidence has further highlighted that some epigenetic marks can be maintained across meiosis and be transmitted to the subsequent generation to reprogram developmental and cellular features. This short review describes current knowledge on the potential impact of epigenetic processes activated by environmental factors on the inheritance of neurobiological disease risk. In addition, the potential adaptive value of epigenetic inheritance, and relevant current and future questions are discussed.
Molecular basis of chill resistance adaptations in poikilothermic animals
Authors: Hayward Scott A. L. , Manso Bruno , Cossins Andrew R.
Published: December 2013

Chill and freeze represent very different components of low temperature stress. Whilst the principal mechanisms of tissue damage and of acquired protection from freeze-induced effects are reasonably well established, those for chill damage and protection are not. Non-freeze cold exposure (i.e. chill) can lead to serious disruption to normal life processes, including disruption to energy metabolism, loss of membrane perm-selectivity and collapse of ion gradients, as well as loss of neuromuscular coordination. If the primary lesions are not relieved then the progressive functional debilitation can lead to death. Thus, identifying the underpinning molecular lesions can point to the means of building resistance to subsequent chill exposures. Researchers have focused on four specific lesions: (i) failure of neuromuscular coordination, (ii) perturbation of bio-membrane structure and adaptations due to altered lipid composition, (iii) protein unfolding, which might be mitigated by the induced expression of compatible osmolytes acting as ‘chemical chaperones’, (iv) or the induced expression of protein chaperones along with the suppression of general protein synthesis. Progress in all these potential mechanisms has been ongoing but not substantial, due in part to an over-reliance on straightforward correlative approaches. Also, few studies have intervened by adoption of single gene ablation, which provides much more direct and compelling evidence for the role of specific genes, and thus processes, in adaptive phenotypes. Another difficulty is the existence of multiple mechanisms, which often act together, thus resulting in compensatory responses to gene manipulations, which may potentially mask disruptive effects on the chill tolerance phenotype. Consequently, there is little direct evidence of the underpinning regulatory mechanisms leading to induced resistance to chill injury. Here, we review recent advances mainly in lower vertebrates and in arthropods, but increasingly in genetic model species from a broader range of taxa.
RNA detection in situ with FISH-STICs
Authors: Sinnamon John R. , Czaplinski Kevin
Published: December 2013

The ability to detect RNA molecules in situ has long had important applications for molecular biological studies. Enzyme or dye-labeled antisense in vitro runoff transcripts and synthetic oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) both have a proven track record of success, but each of these also has scientific and practical drawbacks and limitations to its use. We devised a means to use commercially synthesized oligonucleotides as RNA-FISH probes without further modification and show that such probes work well for detection of RNA in cultured cells. This approach can bind a high concentration of fluorescent ODN to a short stretch of an RNA using commercial DNA synthesis outlets available to any laboratory. We call this approach for creating in situ hybridization probes Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization with Sequential Tethered and Intertwined ODN Complexes (FISH-STICs). We demonstrate that one FISH-STIC probe can detect mRNA molecules in culture, and that probe detection can be improved by the addition of multiple probes that can be easily adapted for robust mRNA quantification. Using FISH-STICs, we demonstrate a nonoverlapping distribution for β-actin and γ-actin mRNA in cultured fibroblasts, and the detection of neuron-specific transcripts within cultured primary hippocampal neurons.
An unusual mechanism for EF-Tu activation during tmRNA-mediated ribosome rescue
Authors: Miller Mickey R. , Buskirk Allen R.
Published: December 2013

In bacteria, ribosomes stalled on truncated mRNAs are rescued by transfer-messenger RNA (tmRNA) and its protein partner SmpB. Acting like tRNA, the aminoacyl-tmRNA/SmpB complex is delivered to the ribosomal A site by EF-Tu and accepts the transfer of the nascent polypeptide. Although SmpB binding within the decoding center is clearly critical for licensing tmRNA entry into the ribosome, it is not known how activation of EF-Tu occurs in the absence of a codon–anticodon interaction. A recent crystal structure revealed that SmpB residue His136 stacks on 16S rRNA nucleotide G530, a critical player in the canonical decoding mechanism. Here we use pre-steady-state kinetic methods to probe the role of this interaction in ribosome rescue. We find that although mutation of His136 does not reduce SmpB's affinity for the ribosomal A-site, it dramatically reduces the rate of GTP hydrolysis by EF-Tu. Surprisingly, the same mutation has little effect on the apparent rate of peptide-bond formation, suggesting that release of EF-Tu from the tmRNA/SmpB complex on the ribosome may occur prior to GTP hydrolysis. Consistent with this idea, we find that peptidyl transfer to tmRNA is relatively insensitive to the antibiotic kirromycin. Taken together, our studies provide a model for the initial stages of ribosomal rescue by tmRNA.
Common fixed point theorems for ψ-weakly commuting maps in fuzzy metric space
Authors: Prasad Bhagwati , Sahni Ritu
Published: December 2013

In this paper we obtain some fixed point and common fixed point theorems for mappings satisfying general contractivity condition in the setting of fuzzy metric spaces. Some recent results are also derived as special cases.
GENESIS OF COMPARATIVE JURISPRUDENCE AS EDUCATIONAL DISCIPLINE AT GERMAN UNIVERSITIES IN THE FIRST HALF OF THE 19th CENTURY
Authors: Кресин Алексей , Kresin Aleksey
Published: December 2013

The transformation of higher legal education in the German

states in 1810–1820s has been investigated on the basis of the

new scholarly materials, entered into the scientific use. The author

comes to the conclusion about the interrelation between of pozitivist

and komparativist aspects. At the heart of a complex of disciplines

devoted to comparative legal knowledge of foreign law, was the idea

of comparative law as a relatively independent legal science. Also,

there is the relation of this discipline with the comparative history

of the law.
CUSTOMS CONTROL AFTER THE RELEASE OF THE GOODS IN THE MEMBER STATES OF THE CUSTOMS UNION: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
Authors: Агамагомедова Саният , Agamagomedova Saniyat
Published: December 2013

At the present time customs control after the release of the

goods is the priority for the customs authorities in consideration of

Customs Union and the formation of the Eurasian Economic

Space. The procedure of customs control after the release of the

goods in the Customs Union of Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan is

regulated at the international, regional and national levels. Despite

the processes of unification of the regulation of follow-up customs

control in the Customs Union, some differences in the timing and

the manner of its implementation still exist in the member states of

the Customs Union. Harmonization and unification of regulation

and enforcement in this area will improve the efficiency of customs

control after the release of the goods in the Customs Union.
INFLUENCE OF GERMAN FEDERATION UPON EUROPEAN INTEGRATION
Authors: Саломатин Алексей , Salomatin Alexey , Меликов Алексей , Melikov Aleksey
Published: December 2013

Germany as the most economically developed member of

European Union is also a key factor in European integration. Its

experience as federal state, traditionally taking into account the

interest of its lands is very instructive to European bureaucrats who

artificially speed up integration. German politics in European Union

is realistic – it provides for consultation with organs of EU but it

doesn’t yield state sovereignty. German public opinion is very positive

toward European political institutions and democracy in the

country.
Case report: diagnosis and treatment of maxillary sinusitis in an Aberdeen Angus cow
Authors: Crilly James Patrick , Hopker Andy
Published: December 2013

An Aberdeen Angus cow presented to the R(D)SVS with a history of ill thrift and unilateral nasal discharge. Radiographic examination revealed a fluid line in the right maxillary sinus. A diagnosis of maxillary sinusitis was made. After failure to respond to antibiotic therapy the sinusitis was treated by trephination and lavage by an in-dwelling catheter.
Supramolecular Organization of Bimetallic Building Blocks: from Structural Divertimentos to Potential Applications
Authors: Balleste Ruben Mas- , Zamora Felix
Published: December 2013

The phenomena that results on supramolecular aggregations of bimetallic[Pt2L4] and [AuL2] are reviewed. Supramolecular [AuL2]n (n = 2,3) wereobserved in some cases in solution as a result of Au(I)···Au(I) aurophilicinteractions, which also direct the assembly of oligomeric structures in crys-tal phase. Analogously, Pt(II)···Pt(II) attraction accounts for the assembly of[Pt2L4]nsupramolecules which can result on 1D semiconductive arrangementsin crystal phase and direct the formation of 1D nanofibres on surfaces. Finally,oxidation of [Pt2L4] to [Pt2L4I]n produces highly conductive polymers thatcan reversibly assemble/disassemble into [Pt2L4] and [Pt2L4I2]. Such out-standing ability results on an unprecedented processability that enables MMXpolymers for technological applications as molecular wires.
Integrating DNA with Functional Nanomaterials
Authors: Wind Shalom J. , Penzo Erika , Palma Matteo , Wang Risheng , Fazio Teresa , Porath Danny , Rotem Dvir , Livshits Gideon , Stern Avigail
Published: December 2013

DNA may be the most versatile molecule discovered to date. Beyond its well-known central role in genetics, DNA has the potential to be a remarkably usefultechnological material. It has been demonstrated as a scaffold for the assemblyof organic and inorganic nanomaterials [1]; a vehicle for drug delivery [2]; amedium for computation [3]; and a possible wire for transporting electricalsignals [4]. A key factor in exploiting DNA in these ways is the ability tointegrate DNA with other materials. In this paper, we review two approachesto forming DNA complexes with functional nanomaterials: (1) linking DNAwith single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), which can then be used asnanoscale electrical contacts for probing electron transport in DNA; and (2)directed nanoassembly of Au nanoparticles using DNA/PNA (peptide nucleicacid) hybrid scaffolds.
Verðtrygging, þjóðarsátt og inntak kjarasamninga
Authors: Matthíasson Þórólfur
Published: December 2013

Verðtryggingu fjárhagsskuldbindinga var komið á á Íslandi vegna þess að peningakerfi landsins hætti að virka vegna viðvarandi og mikillar verðbólgu á áratugunum fyrir árið 1979. Í greininni eru óheppilegar afleiðingar mikillar og langvarandi verðbólgu á efnahagslífið raktar. Í fræðilega hluta greinarinnar er gerð tilraun til að beita leikjafræði til að skýra hvernig verðtryggingin breytti aðstæðum og samningsumgjörð á vinnumarkaði. Verðtryggingin breytti kjarasamningsferlinu í grundvallaratriðum. Fyrir tíma verðtryggingar höfðu samningsaðilar á vinnumarkaði takmarkaðan hag af að semja á hófsömum nótum. Þetta breytist hægt og sígandi eftir að verðtryggingunni hafði verið komið á. Verðtrygging fjárskuldbindinga hefur því lagt sitt að mörkum til að stuðla að stöðugleika í efnahagslífinu á Íslandi.