bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activation of Platelets byAspergillus fumigatusand Potential Role of Platelets in the Immunopathogenesis of Aspergillosis
Authors: Rødland Ernst Kristian , Ueland Thor , Pedersen Turid M. , Halvorsen Bente , Műller Fredrik , Aukrust Pål , Frøland Stig S.
Published: December 2009

Aspergillus fumigatusis the most frequent cause of invasive mold infections worldwide. Platelets contribute to inflammation and promote thrombosis, characteristically seen in aspergillosis, and might be involved both in antifungal defense and in the histopathological process. In the experiments reported here,in vitroactivation of platelets by conidia, swollen conidia, and hyphae fromA. fumigatuswas assessed by flow cytometry and enzyme immunoassays. THP-1 monocytes and human monocytes with and without platelets were cultured with hyphae fromA. fumigatus, and the release of interleukin-8 (IL-8) was measured by enzyme immunoassays.A. fumigatuspotently induced the expression of CD62-p and CD63 and the release of CD40 ligand, RANTES, and Dickkopf homolog 1 in platelets, with particularly enhancing effects of hyphae compared with conidia. The hypha-mediated activation of platelets further enhanced the release of IL-8 both in THP-1 monocytes and in human adherent monocytes. In conclusion, we have found thatA. fumigatusis a potent inducer of platelet-mediated inflammation, potentially promoting protective as well as harmful responses during aspergillosis.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
-Mediated Damage Requires Distinct Receptors at the Apical and Basolateral Surfaces of the Polarized Epithelium
Authors: Bucior Iwona , Mostov Keith , Engel Joanne N.
Published: December 2009

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, an important opportunistic pathogen of humans, exploits epithelial damage to establish infection. We have rigorously explored the role of N-glycoproteins and heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) in
P. aeruginosa
-mediated attachment and subsequent downstream events at the apical (AP) and basolateral (BL) surfaces of polarized epithelium. We demonstrate that the N-glycan chains at the AP surface are necessary and sufficient for binding, invasion, and cytotoxicity to kidney (MDCK) and airway (Calu-3) cells grown at various states of polarization on Transwell filters. Upregulation of N-glycosylation enhanced binding, whereas pharmacologic inhibition of N-glycosylation or infection of MDCK cells defective in N-glycosylation resulted in decreased binding. In contrast, at the BL surface, the HS moiety of HSPGs mediated
P. aeruginosa
binding, cytotoxicity, and invasion. In incompletely polarized epithelium, HSPG abundance was increased at the AP surface, explaining its increased susceptibility to
P. aeruginosa
colonization and damage. Using MDCK cells grown as three-dimensional cysts as a model for epithelial organs, we show that
P. aeruginosa
specifically colocalized with HS-rich areas at the BL membrane but with complex N-glycans at the AP surface. Finally,
P. aeruginosa
bound to HS chains and N-glycans coated on plastic surfaces, showing the highest binding affinity toward isolated HS chains. Together, these findings demonstrate that
P. aeruginosa
recognizes distinct receptors on the AP and BL surfaces of polarized epithelium. Changes in the composition of N-glycan chains and/or in the distribution of HSPGs may explain the enhanced susceptibility of damaged epithelium to
P. aeruginosa
.
Candida glabrata
Persistence in Mice Does Not Depend on Host Immunosuppression and Is Unaffected by Fungal Amino Acid Auxotrophy
Authors: Jacobsen I. D. , Brunke S. , Seider K. , Schwarzmüller T. , Firon A. , d'Enfért C. , Kuchler K. , Hube B.
Published: December 2009

Candida glabrata
has emerged as an important fungal pathogen of humans, causing life-threatening infections in immunocompromised patients. In contrast, mice do not develop disease upon systemic challenge, even with high infection doses. In this study we show that leukopenia, but not treatment with corticosteroids, leads to fungal burdens that are transiently increased over those in immunocompetent mice. However, even immunocompetent mice were not capable of clearing infections within 4 weeks. Tissue damage and immune responses to microabscesses were mild as monitored by clinical parameters, including blood enzyme levels, histology, myeloperoxidase, and cytokine levels. Furthermore, we investigated the suitability of amino acid auxotrophic
C. glabrata
strains for
in vitro
and
in vivo
studies of fitness and/or virulence. Histidine, leucine, or tryptophan auxotrophy, as well as a combination of these auxotrophies, did not influence
in vitro
growth in rich medium. The survival of all auxotrophic strains in immunocompetent mice was similar to that of the parental wild-type strain during the first week of infection and was only mildly reduced 4 weeks after infection, suggesting that
C. glabrata
is capable of utilizing a broad range of host-derived nutrients during infection. These data suggest that
C. glabrata
histidine, leucine, or tryptophan auxotrophic strains are suitable for the generation of knockout mutants for
in vivo
studies. Notably, our work indicates that
C. glabrata
has successfully developed immune evasion strategies enabling it to survive, disseminate, and persist within mammalian hosts.
Host-specific germination of the root holoparasiteHydnora triceps(Hydnoraceae)
Authors: Bolin Jay F. , Maass Erika , Tennakoon Kushan U. , Musselman Lytton J.
Published: December 2009

We provide the first germination data on the root-holoparasitic Hydnoraceae. Aqueous root extracts of host and non-host Euphorbia spp. were applied to seeds of Hydnora triceps Drège & Meyer, a narrow endemic of Namibia and South Africa. The seeds of H. triceps germinated only in response to root extracts of its exclusive host, Euphorbia dregeana Meyer, and not for co-occurring non-host Euphorbia spp. This pattern of host specific germination suggests that germination response to host-root cues may be responsible for host partitioning. Provenance of H. triceps seeds and E. dregeana root extracts did not significantly affect germination rates. The round-eared elephant shrew ( Macroscelides proboscideus ) and the striped mouse ( Rhabdomys pumilio ) were observed feeding on the fleshy pulp of H. triceps fruits. Small-mammal droppings collected from the same partially consumed fruits contained intact seeds (1.9 ± 1.1 seeds/dropping) providing indirect evidence of seed dispersal by small mammals.
Fairy slipper (Calypso bulbosa) on Anticosti Island: the occurrence of a rare plant in an environment strongly modified by white-tailed deer
Authors: Morissette Ève-Marie , Lavoie Claude , Huot Jean
Published: December 2009

The introduction of white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus Zimm.) at the end of the 19th century, and their subsequent proliferation on Anticosti Island (Quebec) has had a strong impact on forest vegetation. Only 50% of the original balsam fir ( Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.) cover remains on the island, and fir has been progressively replaced by white spruce ( Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) because of browsing. This phenomenon may have an impact on rare species, such as the fairy slipper orchid ( Calypso bulbosa (L.) Oakes; Orchidaceae), associated with old fir stands. In this study, we mapped fairy slipper populations on Anticosti Island and collected data on its habitat. We developed a statistical model to identify key environmental characteristics predicting the presence or the absence of the species. We hypothesized that on Anticosti Island, the fairy slipper is restricted to old-growth fir stands located on calcareous soils; consequently, this orchid is endangered because its habitat is gradually disappearing. A total of 69 sampling stations were surveyed along three transects crossing the island. The fairy slipper was present in 19 of the 69 stations. A fir stand, with a large quantity of dead logs and low levels of tree and moss cover, is more likely to harbour a fairy slipper population than any other forest stand. It is possible that on Anticosti Island, the presence of the fairy slipper is associated with forest age and structure (the latter being strongly influenced by deer) rather than with fir per se. Moreover, deer, by browsing shrubs and fir seedlings and saplings, have apparently had a positive impact on the fairy slipper population by eliminating competition between this orchid and other understory plants. On the other hand, deer have hampered the regeneration of fir forests; old fir stands that were eliminated by blowdowns, insect outbreaks, fires or logging have been replaced by spruce stands. This may have an impact on the long term survival of the fairy slipper, unless spruce stands soon provide suitable habitats for the species as they mature.
Pore-pressure response in a marine clay slope in southeast Norway
Authors: Boyle Stan , Karlsrud Kjell , Høydal Øyvind Armand
Published: December 2009

This paper presents 9 years of measured pore pressures from eight piezometers installed in a marine clay slope in southeast Norway and the results of a two-dimensional finite element (FE) analysis performed to evaluate infiltration effects on groundwater flow and pore-pressure response. The assumed time-varying boundary flux record used in the analysis to simulate infiltration considers the effects of temperature, snow depth, land-use practices, and soil hydraulic conductivity. The pore-pressure records and analyses show that: (i) the maximum pore pressure reached is nearly the same each year; (ii) this maximum corresponds to a groundwater surface at or near the ground surface; (iii) the two-dimensional groundwater model used for the analysis is adequate for understanding of factors affecting infiltration, seepage patterns, and pore-pressure variations; and (iv) it is difficult to precisely model all aspects of the observed pore-pressure variations.
Investigations on the dynamic behavior of a small-diameter pile driven in soft clay
Authors: Alves Antonio M.L. , Lopes Francisco R. , Randolph Mark F. , Danziger Bernadete R.
Published: December 2009

This paper presents results and analyses of the dynamic behavior of a small-diameter pile driven in very soft clay, with its tip embedded to a depth of 4.5 m with a clear distance of 1–1.5 m above a stiffer substratum. The research program included static and dynamic load tests performed over a period of 15 days, with blows from three different drop heights. The dynamic signals were analyzed using two different pile–soil interaction models. The performance of the dynamic models in predicting the shaft and base behavior of the model pile, as well as the change in bearing capacity and in some model parameters the dynamic with time, are addressed in particular.
MEMORY BOOSTS COOPERATION IN THE STRUCTURALLY DYNAMIC PRISONER'S DILEMMA
Authors: ALONSO-SANZ RAMÓN
Published: December 2009

In the conventional spatial formulation of the iterated prisoner's dilemma, only the results generated in the last round are taken into account in deciding the next choice. Historic memory of past iterations can be taken into account by featuring players by a summary of their previous winnings and choices. The effect of such a memory implementation when the players are allowed to follow a simple full-deterministic structurally coevolving dynamic is assessed in this work.
RAY STABILITY FOR BACKGROUND SOUND SPEED PROFILES WITH TRANSITION
Authors: BÓDAI TAMÁS , FENWICK ALAN J. , WIERCIGROCH MARIAN
Published: December 2009

In this paper deep ocean sound propagation through random media is considered. The study is conducted within a ray theory framework, which facilitates the assessment of ray stability. Model ocean environments where there is a gradual transition between two ambient sound speed profiles, a single duct Munk profile and a double duct profile taken in the Eastern North Atlantic are examined. We build on the finding that the ambient sound speed structure controls ray stability [Beron-Vera & Brown, 2003], and extend this statement for sound speed profiles with transition. It is shown that launching basins, plots constructed by the Maximal Lyapunov Exponent and indicating desirable ray launching parameters, can be predicted by the unperturbed ray system using the nonlinearity parameter.
RICH OSCILLATION PATTERNS IN A SIMPLE DISCRETE-TIME DELAYED NEURON NETWORK AND ITS LINEAR CONTROL
Authors: WANG GUANGHUI , PENG MINGSHU
Published: December 2009

In this paper, a well-known multistability phenomenon is discovered and observed in two-parameter families of nonlinear discrete-time neuron networks. A specific strategy of controlling multistability (multiple oscillation patterns) to unimode oscillation pattern (synchronization) by linear asymmetric diffusion coupling is proposed and the numerical simulation provides solid evidence for its effectiveness.
FIXED AND PERIODIC POINTS OF POLYNOMIALS GENERATED BY MINIMAL POLYNOMIALS OF 2cos(2π/n)
Authors: WITUŁA ROMAN , SŁOTA DAMIAN
Published: December 2009

In this paper certain identities are generated for minimal polynomials Θn(z) of numbers 2 cos (2π/n) and for Chebyshev polynomials of the first kind. Against the background of these identities, sets of cyclic points of some modified versions of these polynomials are derived. The discussion leads to the analysis of a certain new counting sequence of numbers connected with Carmichael function.
THE SHADOW-CURVES OF THE ORBIT DIAGRAM PERMEATE THE BIFURCATION DIAGRAM, TOO
Authors: ROSS CHIP , ODELL MEREDITH , CREMER SARAH
Published: December 2009

The "Q-curves [Formula: see text] have long been observed and studied as the shadowy curves which appear illusively — not explicitly drawn — in the familiar orbit diagram of Myrberg's map fc(x) = x2 + c. We illustrate that Q-curves also appear implicitly, for a different reason, in a computer-drawn bifurcation diagram of x2 + c as well — by "bifurcation diagram" we mean the collection of all periodic points of fc (attracting, indifferent and repelling) — these collections form what we call "P-curves". We show Q-curves and P-curves intersect in one of two ways: At a superattracting periodic point on a P-curve, the infinite family of Q-curve s which intersect there are all tangent to the P-curve. At a Misiurewicz point, no tangencies occur at these intersections; the slope of the P-curve is the fixed point of a linear system whose iterates give the slopes of the Q-curves.

We also introduce some new phenomena associated with c sin x illustrating briefly how its two different families of Q-curves interact with P-curves.

Our algorithm for finding and plotting all periodic points (up to any reasonable period) in the bifurcation diagram is reviewed in an Appendix.
NEW STUDY ON THE CENTER PROBLEM AND BIFURCATIONS OF LIMIT CYCLES FOR THE LYAPUNOV SYSTEM (II)
Authors: LIU YIRONG , LI JIBIN
Published: December 2009

The center problem and bifurcations of limit cycles for the Lyapunov system are continuously studied. We shall prove that we can construct successively a formal series such that the Lyapunov system is reduced a half-normal form. From the coefficients of the half-normal form, we obtain directly the Lyapunov constants of the origin. As examples, for two classes of cubic systems, the center and focus problem, and multiple bifurcations of limit cycles are studied.
IMPULSIVE EFFECTS ON STABILITY OF A CLASS OF NONLINEAR NEURAL NETWORKS WITH MULTIPLE DELAYS
Authors: ZHOU QINGHUA , WAN LI , ZHANG QUNJIAO
Published: December 2009

The global asymptotic stability (GAS) for a class of nonlinear impulsive neural networks with multiple delays are discussed. By skillfully constructing suitable Lyapunov functionals and the linear matrix inequality (LMI) technique, a new sufficient delay-dependent stability criterion is derived. The proposed stability results are less conservative than some recently known ones in the literature, which is demonstrated via two examples with simulation.
A THEORETICAL ANALYSIS OF MULTISCALE ENTROPY UNDER THE INVERSE GAUSSIAN DISTRIBUTION
Authors: TANG YING , PEI WENJIANG , WANG KAI , HE ZHENYA , CHEUNG YIUMING
Published: December 2009

Multiscale entropy (MSE) discloses the intrinsic multiple scales in the complexity of physical and physiological signals, which are usually featured by heavy-tailed distributions. Most of these research results are pure experimental search, till Costa et al. made the first attempt to the theoretical basis of MSE. However, the analysis only supports the Gaussian distribution [Phys. Rev. E71, 021906 (2005)]. In this paper, we present the theoretical basis of MSE under the inverse Gaussian distribution, which is a typical model for physiological, physical and financial data sets. The analysis is applicable to uncorrelated inverse Gaussian process and 1/f noise with the multivariate inverse Gaussian distribution, providing a reliable foundation for potential applications of MSE to explore complex physical and physiological time series.
EXPONENTIAL STABILITY OF STOCHASTIC FUZZY CELLULAR NEURAL NETWORKS WITH DISTRIBUTED DELAYS
Authors: CHEN LIPING , WU RANCHAO
Published: December 2009

The exponential stability of a class of stochastic fuzzy cellular neural networks with distributed delays is investigated in this paper. By using analytic methods such as Lyapunov functional, Itô's formula, inequality techniques and non-negative semimartingale convergence theorem, the sufficient conditions guaranteeing the almost sure and mean square exponential stability of its equilibrium solution are respectively obtained. For illustration, an example is given to show the feasibility of results.
ROBERT HOOKE'S THREE-BODY PROBLEM
Authors: ARGENTINA MÉDÉRIC , COULLET PIERRE , GILLI JEAN-MARC , MONTICELLI MARC , ROUSSEAUX GERMAIN
Published: December 2009

During the winter 1679, R. Hooke challenged I. Newton to predict the dynamics of an object submitted to a constant radial force. This correspondence made a strong impact on I. Newton, who wrote four years later "De Motu", the real ancestor of "The Principia", published in 1687. R. Hooke's problem can be physically linked to the dynamics of a sphere sliding on an inverted cone due to gravitational effects. If the symmetry axis of the cone is parallel to the gravitational field, the ball executes stable precessions. Breaking this symmetry induces the appearance of chaotic motions. After having derived the equations related to the position of the sphere, we analyze its dynamics, and we perform an approximated Floquet analysis that is compared to our numerical results.
STOCHASTIC MODEL CALCULATION FOR THE CARBON MONOXIDE OXIDATION ON IRIDIUM(111) SURFACES
Authors: CISTERNAS JAIME , ESCAFF DANIEL , DESCALZI ORAZIO , WEHNER STEFAN
Published: December 2009

We study the effect of external noise on the catalytic oxidation of CO on an Iridium(111) single crystal under ultrahigh vacuum conditions. This reaction can be considered as a model of catalysis used in industry. In the absence of noise the reaction exhibits one or two stable stationary states, depending on control parameters such as temperature and partial pressures. When noise is added, for instance, by randomly varying the quality of the influx mixture, the system exhibits stochastic reaction rate and switching. In this work, we present two approaches: one for the monostable regime, and another for the bistable situation that relies on a white noise approximation. Both approaches rest on the assumption that spatial patterns of coverage on the Iridium plate can be neglected on a first approximation. Using mathematical models, it is possible to reconstruct stationary probability distribution functions that match experimental observations and provide support for the existence of a thermodynamic potential.
DIVERSITY-INDUCED RESONANCE IN A SYSTEM OF GLOBALLY COUPLED LINEAR OSCILLATORS
Authors: TORAL RAÚL , HERNÁNDEZ-GARCÍA EMILIO , GUNTON JAMES D.
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this paper is to analyze in some detail the arguably simplest case of diversity-induced resonance: that of a system of globally-coupled linear oscillators subjected to a periodic forcing. Diversity appears as the parameters characterizing each oscillator, namely its mass, internal frequency and damping coefficient are drawn from a probability distribution. The main ingredients for the diversity-induced-resonance phenomenon are present in this system as the oscillators display a variability in the individual responses but are induced, by the coupling, to synchronize their responses. A steady-state solution for this model is obtained. We also determine the conditions under which it is possible to find a resonance effect.
MEASURING DISLOCATION DENSITY IN ALUMINUM WITH RESONANT ULTRASOUND SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: BARRA FELIPE , CARU ANDRES , CERDA MARIA TERESA , ESPINOZA RODRIGO , JARA ALEJANDRO , LUND FERNANDO , MUJICA NICOLAS
Published: December 2009

Dislocations in a material will, when present in enough numbers, change the speed of propagation of elastic waves. Consequently, two material samples, differing only in dislocation density, will have different elastic constants, a quantity that can be measured using Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy. Measurements of this effect on aluminum samples are reported. They compare well with the predictions of the theory.
ASSESSING WORKING MEMORY IN REAL-LIFE SITUATIONS WITH FUNCTIONAL NEAR-INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: LI TING , LI LI , LUO QINGMING , GONG HUI
Published: December 2009

Working memory is one of the most important functions in our brain, which has been widely studied with unreal-life measured technologies. A functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) instrument with a portable and low-cost design is developed, which is capable of providing hemodynamic measurement associated with brain function in real-life situations. Using this instrument, we performed working memory studies involved in Chinese words encoding, verbal, and spatial stem recognition, which are mainly studied with other technologies. Our results show that fNIRS can well assess working memory activities, in comparison with the reported results mainly using other methodologies. Furthermore, we find that hemodynamic change in the prefrontal cortex during all working memory tasks is highly associated with subjects' behavioral data. fNIRS is shown to be a promising alternative to the current methodologies for studying or assessing functional brain activities in natural condition.
APPLICATION OF DOPPLER OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY IN RHEOLOGICAL STUDIES: BLOOD FLOW AND VESSELS MECHANICAL PROPERTIES EVALUATION
Authors: BONESI MARCO , KENNERLEY ANEURIN J. , MEGLINSKI IGOR , MATCHER STEPHEN
Published: December 2009

Doppler Optical Coherence Tomography (DOCT) is a noninvasive optical diagnostic technique, which is well suited for the quantitative mapping of microflow velocity profiles and the analysis of flow-vessel interactions. The noninvasive imaging and quantitative analysis of blood flow in the complex-structured vascular bed is required in many biomedical applications, including those where the determination of mechanical properties of vessels or the knowledge of the mechanic interactions between the flow and the housing medium plays a key role. The change of microvessel wall elasticity could be a potential indicator of cardiovascular disease at the very early stage, whilst monitoring the blood flow dynamics and associated temporal and spatial variations in vessel's wall shear stress could help predicting the possible rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. The results of feasibility studies of application of DOCT for the evaluation of mechanical properties of elastic vessel model are presented. The technique has also been applied for imaging of sub-cranial rat blood flow in vivo.
GENERATION OF TRANSGENIC MICE FOR IN VIVO DETECTION OF INSULIN-CONTAINING GRANULE EXOCYTOSIS AND QUANTIFICATION OF INSULIN SECRETION
Authors: LU JINLING , GUSTAVSSON NATALIA , LI QIMING , RADDA GEORGE K. , SÜDHOF THOMAS C. , HAN WEIPING
Published: December 2009

Insulin secretion is a complex and highly regulated process. Although much progress has been made in understanding the cellular mechanisms of insulin secretion and regulation, it remains unclear how conclusions from these studies apply to living animals. That few studies have been done to address these issues is largely due to the lack of suitable tools in detecting secretory events at high spatial and temporal resolution in vivo. When combined with genetically encoded biosensor, optical imaging is a powerful tool for visualization of molecular events in vivo. In this study, we generated a DNA construct encoding a secretory granule resident protein that is linked with two spectrally separate fluorescent proteins, a highly pH-sensitive green pHluorin on the intra-granular side and a red mCherry in the cytosol. Upon exocytosis of secretory granules, the dim pHluorin inside the acidic secretory granules became highly fluorescent outside the cells at neutral pH, while mCherry fluorescence remained constant in the process, thus allowing ratiometric quantification of insulin secretory events. Furthermore, mCherry fluorescence enabled tracking the movement of secretory granules in living cells. We validated this approach in insulin-secreting cells, and generated a transgenic mouse line expressing the optical sensor specifically in pancreatic β-cells. The transgenic mice will be a useful tool for future investigations of molecular mechanism of insulin secretion in vitro and in vivo.
Enigmatic fossils from the Upper Silurian of Bolivia: evidence for marine productivity in high-latitude Gondwana
Authors: Edwards D. , Axe L. , Poiré D. G. , Morel E. M. , Bassett M. G. , Cingolani C. A.
Published: December 2009

Specimens collected recently from the Las Carmelitas facies of the Kirusillas Formation exposed in the Cochabamba area, Bolivia and dated as Ludlow (Late Silurian) by graptolites, show bedding surfaces almost completely covered by coalified compressions and impressions. The majority comprise mixtures of fragmented amorphous, unidentifiable material (‘debris’), but some horizons are dominated by well-defined morphological entities with a particular type or combination of types confined to a particular layer. In all, five morphotypes have been circumscribed, but their affinities, based on a comprehensive review of the possibilities, remain conjectural. Algal affinities are suggested tentatively for abundant, unbranched, narrow, strap-shaped fossils lacking any further diagnostic features and the numerous coalified discs or three-dimensionally preserved spheres (?leiosphaerid acritarchs) occurring isolated in the matrix or, less often, in clusters. Following a discussion on the recognition of faecal pellets in the fossil record, it is postulated that elliptical, spiral or simply segmented structures may be the excreta of planktonic or benthic metazoans, although the latter seems less likely in view of the proposed anoxic depositional environment of the shales that lack any bioturbation. Such coalified remains, whether from primary producers or grazers, indicate high productivity at high palaeolatitudes in the late Silurian continental seas in this region of peri-Gondwana.
Early Palaeozoic cooling events: peri-Gondwana and beyond
Authors: Cherns Lesley , Wheeley James R.
Published: December 2009

The short-lived end-Ordovician Hirnantian glaciation allied to marine mass extinction is variously considered as a short-lived event or as the peak of long-drawn-out climatic cooling through at least late Ordovician–early Silurian times. Evidence from Early Palaeozoic facies, faunas and stable isotope excursions used to interpret climatic cooling events ranges farther, from late Mid-Cambrian to late Silurian times. Glacigenic sediments, structures and geomorphology provide direct evidence of glacial episodes. Cool-water carbonate deposition, which is particularly widespread during the late Ordovician Boda event in high-latitude peri-Gondwana–Gondwana, and beyond into mid–low palaeolatitudes, is interpreted as indicating global cooling, not warming as has been proposed. Such carbonates also characterize mid-latitude continents widely at horizons earlier in the Ordovician, and more locally in the mid-Silurian in high-latitude Gondwana. Cool-water carbonate mounds have distinctive facies-controlled mound faunas across palaeocontinents. Other facies evidence for palaeoclimates includes black shale deposition, including deglacial organic-rich ‘hot shales’, which indicate transgression in epeiric seas, and sea-level curves interpreted from facies and faunal successions. Correlation is shown between facies evidence and positive C isotope excursions, from which cyclicities are apparent. The possible interface of orbitally controlled rhythms is considered against evolving palaeobiogeography, and changes in global sea level and in
p
CO
2
. Facies and faunal evidence from peri-Gondwanan terranes (Armorica, Central Europe, Alborz) is assessed with that from Gondwana (mostly North Africa, South America) and correlatives in Avalonia, Baltica and Laurentia to establish a wider picture of early Palaeozoic cooling events.
The tectonic context of the Early Palaeozoic southern margin of Gondwana
Authors: Pankhurst Robert J. , Vaughan Alan P. M.
Published: December 2009

The oceanic southern margin of Gondwana, from southern South America through South Africa, West Antarctica, New Zealand (in its pre-break-up position), and Victoria Land to Eastern Australia, is one of the longest and longest-lived active continental margins known. Its construction was initiated in late Neoproterozoic times following the break-up of the pre-existing supercontinent of Rodinia. Gondwana was established by the amalgamation of Australian, Indian, Antarctic, African and South American continental fragments mostly derived from Rodinia. Its ‘Pacific’ margin continued to develop as the site of the 18 000 km Terra Australis orogen, predominantly facing subducting ocean floor and involving some terrane accretion events, through Palaeozoic and Mesozoic times until, and during, the eventual break-up of Gondwana itself.
A survey of computer systems for expressive music performance
Authors: Kirke Alexis , Miranda Eduardo Reck
Published: December 2009

We present a survey of research into automated and semiautomated computer systems for expressive performance of music. We will examine the motivation for such systems and then examine the majority of the systems developed over the last 25 years. To highlight some of the possible future directions for new research, the review uses primary terms of reference based on four elements: testing status, expressive representation, polyphonic ability, and performance creativity.
On anonymity in an electronic society
Authors: Edman Matthew , Yener Bülent
Published: December 2009

The past two decades have seen a growing interest in methods for anonymous communication on the Internet, both from the academic community and the general public. Several system designs have been proposed in the literature, of which a number have been implemented and are used by diverse groups, such as journalists, human rights workers, the military, and ordinary citizens, to protect their identities on the Internet.

In this work, we survey the previous research done to design, develop, and deploy systems for enabling private and anonymous communication on the Internet. We identify and describe the major concepts and technologies in the field, including mixes and mix networks, onion routing, and Dining Cryptographers networks. We will also review powerful traffic analysis attacks that have motivated improvements and variations on many of these anonymity protocols made since their introduction. Finally, we will summarize some of the major open problems in anonymous communication research and discuss possible directions for future work in the field.
Standardized mixed language programming for Fortran and C
Authors: Einarsson Bo , Hanson Richard J. , Hopkins Tim
Published: December 2009

Programmers have long practiced the matter of mixed language procedure calls. This is particularly true for the programming languages C and Fortran. The use of the alternate language often results in efficient running time or the effective use of human or other resources.

Prior to the Fortran 2003 standard there was silence about how the two languages interoperated. Before this release there existed a set of differingad hocmethods for making the inter-language calls. These typically depended on the Fortran and C compilers. The newer Fortran standard provides an intrinsic module, iso_c_binding, that permits the languages to interoperate. There remain restrictions regarding interoperable data types.

This paper illustrates several programs that contain core exercises likely to be encountered by programmers. The source code is available from the first author's web site. Included is an illustration of a "trap" based on use of thead hocmethods: A call from a C to a Fortran 2003 routine that passes a character in C to a character variable in Fortran results in a run-time error.
On PDG-based noninterference and its modular proof (abstract only)
Authors: Wasserrab Daniel , Lohner Denis , Snelting Gregor
Published: December 2009

We present the first machine-checked correctness proof for information flow control (IFC) based on program dependence graphs (PDGs). IFC based on slicing and PDGs is flow-sensitive, context-sensitive, and object-sensitive; thus offering more precision than traditional approaches. While the method has been implemented and successfully applied to realistic Java programs, only a manual proof of a fundamental correctness property was available so far.

The new proof is based on a new correctness proof for intraprocedural PDGs and program slices. Both proofs are formalized in Isabelle/HOL. They rely on abstract structures and properties instead of concrete syntax and definitions. Carrying the correctness proof over to any given language or dependence definition reduces to just showing that it fulfills the necessary preconditions, thus eliminating the need to develop another full proof.

We instantiate the framework with both a simple while language and Java bytecode, as well as with three different control dependence definitions. Thus we obtain 6 IFC correctness proofs for the price of 1½.
An implementation and semantics for transactional memory introspection in Haskell (abstract only)
Authors: Birgisson Arnar , Erlingsson Úlfar
Published: December 2009

Transactional Memory Introspection (TMI) is a novel reference monitor architecture that provides complete mediation, freedom from time of check to time of use bugs and improved failure handling for authorization. TMI builds on and integrates with implementations of the Software Transactional Memory (STM) architecture [Harris and Fraser 2003]. In this paper we present a formal definition of TMI and a concrete implementation over the Haskell STM. We find that this specification and reference implementation establishes clear semantics for the TMI architecture. In particular, they help identify and resolve ambiguities that apply to implementations such in our prior work [Birgisson et al. 2008].
Flow-sensitive semantics for dynamic information flow policies (abstract only)
Authors: Broberg Niklas , Sands David
Published: December 2009

Dynamic information flow policies, such as declassification, are essential for practically useful information flow control systems. However, most systems proposed to date that handle dynamic information flow policies suffer from a common drawback. They build on semantic models of security which are inherently flow insensitive, which means that many simple intuitively secure programs will be considered insecure.

In this paper we address this problem in the context of a particular system, flow locks. We provide a new flow sensitive semantics for flow locks based on a knowledge-style definition (following Askarov and Sabelfeld), in which the knowledge gained by an actor observing a program run is constrained according to the flow locks which are open at the time each observation is made. We demonstrate the applicability of the definition in a soundness proof for a simple flow lock type system. We also show how other systems can be encoded using flow locks, as an easy means to provide these systems with flow sensitive semantics.
Efficient purely-dynamic information flow analysis (abstract only)
Authors: Austin Thomas H. , Flanagan Cormac
Published: December 2009

We present a novel approach for efficiently tracking information flow in a dynamically-typed language such as JavaScript. Our approach is purely dynamic, and it detects problems with implicit paths via a dynamic check that avoids the need for an approximate static analyses while still guaranteeing non-interference. We incorporate this check into an efficient evaluation strategy based on sparse information labeling that leaves information flow labels implicit whenever possible, and introduces explicit labels only for values that migrate between security domains. We present experimental results showing that, on a range of small benchmark programs, sparse labeling provides a substantial (30%--50%) speed-up over universal labeling.
Biomarkers of Resistance to Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Monoclonal Antibodies in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Banck Michaela S. , Grothey Axel
Published: December 2009

Genomics and proteomics have held out the promise of individualized medicine for the last 10 or 20 years, but clinical medicine has not yet delivered on this promise. Some cancers, such as breast cancer and some hematologic malignancies, have been at the forefront of individualized therapeutic approaches by integrating molecular biomarkers into treatment decision algorithms. Until recently, the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) has lagged behind these other cancers in this regard and therapeutic decisions have been solely empirical. Data from various clinical trials and translational studies have now opened the door for individualized treatment approaches by identifying patients with metastatic CRC who are most likely to benefit from antibodies against the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), cetuximab and panitumumab. Activating mutations of KRAS, a downstream mediator of EGFR signaling, has been shown to render EGFR antibodies ineffective, such that analyzing tumors for these mutations has become mandatory before the use of EGFR antibodies is considered in CRC. Beyond KRAS, several additional biomarkers are currently being investigated as potential positive or negative predictors for the efficacy of EGFR-targeted therapy. Most of these markers are alterations of molecules integrated in the EGFR pathway. This review will focus on the type and quality of evidence that has been gathered to date to predict resistance to monoclonal antibodies against EGFR in CRC. (Clin Cancer Res 2009;15(24):7492–501)
Comparing Outcomes of ‘Voluntary’ and ‘Quasi-Compulsory’ Treatment of Substance Dependence in Europe
Authors: Schaub Michael , Stevens Alex , Berto Daniele , Hunt Neil , Kerschl Viktoria , McSweeney Tim , Oeuvray Kerrie , Puppo Irene , Santa Maria Alberto , Trinkl Barbara , Werdenich Wolfgang , Uchtenhagen Ambros
Published: December 2009

Aim: This study evaluates quasi-compulsory drug treatment (QCT) arrangements for substance-dependent offenders receiving treatment instead of imprisonment in comparison to voluntary treatment within five European countries. Methods: Participants were interviewed with the European Addiction Severity Index, the ASI-crime module, questions on perception of pressure and self-efficacy, and the Readiness-to-Change Questionnaire at treatment entry and after 6, 12, and 18 months. Results: Reductions in substance use and crime as well as improvements in health and social integration were observed in QCT and voluntary treatment groups. After controlling for various factors, subjects in the QCT and the comparison group showed similar reductions in substance use and crime over time. Study retention was comparable in both groups. Conclusion: QCT is as effective as voluntary treatment provided in the same services in reducing substance use and crime.
General Cardiovascular Risk Profile Identifies Advanced Coronary Artery Calcium and Is Improved by Family History
Authors: Scheuner Maren T. , Setodji Claude Messan , Pankow James S. , Blumenthal Roger S. , Keeler Emmett
Published: December 2009

Background—

The General Cardiovascular Risk Profile is a multivariable model that predicts global cardiovascular disease risk. Our goal was to assess the ability of the General Cardiovascular Risk Profile to identify individuals with advanced coronary artery calcification (CAC) and determine whether identification is improved with family history.

Methods and Results—

Using data from the Multiethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, 3 sex-specific models were developed with ordinal logistic regressions to relate risk factors to CAC scores. Model 1 included covariates in the General Cardiovascular Risk Profile. Then family history was added, defined as having at least 1 first-degree relative with premature coronary heart disease (model 2) or as a weak, moderate, or strong family history based on number of relatives with coronary heart disease, age at onset, and the presence of stroke or diabetes in the family (model 3). For each model, we estimated mathematical CAC risk functions, derived CAC score sheets, evaluated the ability to discriminate persons having positive CAC scores, and assessed reclassification of individuals with low, intermediate, or high probability of CAC >300. Model 1 worked well to identify women and men with positive CAC scores; c-statistics were 0.752 and 0.718 and χ
2
values were 821.2 (
P
<0.0001) and 730.6 (
P
<0.0001), respectively. Addition of family history improved discrimination and fit of model 1. However, reclassification of participants with advanced CAC was significantly improved with model 3 only.

Conclusions—

The General Cardiovascular Risk Profile identifies advanced CAC, an emerging indication for aggressive risk factor modification. Incorporation of family history, especially comprehensive familial risk stratification, provides incremental prognostic value.
Is Longitudinal Pulse Pressure a Better Predictor of 24-Hour Urinary Albumin Excretion Than Other Indices of Blood Pressure?
Authors: Farasat S. Morteza , Valdes Carolina , Shetty Veena , Muller Denis C. , Egan Josephine M. , Metter E. Jeffrey , Ferrucci Luigi , Najjar Samer S.
Published: December 2009

The strong relationship between urinary albumin excretion (UAE) and pulse pressure (PP) in cross-sectional studies suggests that pressure pulsatility may contribute to renal microvascular injury. The longitudinal relationships between UAE and the various indices of blood pressure (BP) are not well studied. We compared the associations of UAE with the longitudinal exposure to PP and systolic, diastolic, and mean BPs. UAE was measured from 24-hour urine collections in 450 community-dwelling subjects (age: 57±15 years, 53% women, all with UAE <200 μg/min). For each subject, longitudinal indices of BP were estimated by dividing the area under the curve of serial measurements of BP (median: 5) during 1 to 22 years preceding UAE measurement by the number of follow-up years. Median (interquartile range) UAE was 4.7 μg/min (3.3 to 7.8 μg/min) in women and 5.2 μg/min (3.7 to 9.8 μg/min) in men. In women, UAE was not related to longitudinal indices of BP. In men, in multivariable-adjusted models that included either longitudinal systolic and diastolic BPs or longitudinal PP and mean BP, UAE was independently associated with systolic (standardized regression coefficient [β]=0.227;
P
=0.03) but not with diastolic (β=−0.049;
P
=0.59) BP and with PP (β=0.216;
P
=0.01) but not with mean BP (β=0.032;
P
=0.72). Comparisons of these 2 models and stepwise regression analyses both indicated that, of the 4 longitudinal indices of BP, PP was the strongest predictor of UAE in men. The pulsatile component of BP confers the highest risk for BP-induced renal microvascular injury. Future studies should examine whether PP reduction provides additional renoprotection beyond that attained by conventional BP goals alone.
Eddy-Induced Instability for Low-Frequency Variability
Authors: Jin F-F.
Published: December 2009

Synoptic eddy–mean flow interaction has been recognized as one of the key sources for extratropical low-frequency variability. In this paper, the underlying dynamics of this interaction are examined from the perspective of a synoptic eddy-induced dynamic instability. To delineate this instability, a barotropic model is used that is linearized with respect to a stochastic basic flow prescribed with both climatologic-mean flow and synoptic eddy statistics. This linear model captures the dynamics of feedback between synoptic eddy and low-frequency flow through a dynamic closure that relates the anomalous eddy vorticity forcing to low-frequency flow anomalies. After reducing this dynamic closure to its fundamental components, this stability is elucidated with analytical results under the most idealized consideration of basic flow. It is shown that through systematic alteration of the synoptic eddy structures in the basic flow, a low-frequency planetary-scale perturbation generates anomalous eddy vorticity forcing positively proportional to the vorticity of the perturbation. Such a perturbation amplifies itself; the energy source for its growth comes from the reservoir residing in the basic synoptic eddy activity. Thus, the growth rate of the synoptic eddy-induced dynamic instability depends primarily on the kinetic energy level of the basic synoptic eddy activity. Moreover, this instability is scale selective with preference for zonal symmetric and asymmetric planetary-scale modes, whose meridional and zonal scales are roughly in the range of those of the observed leading low-frequency patterns. Analysis of this synoptic eddy-induced instability provides insight into the origin of extratropical low-frequency variability.
The Varying Response of Microwave Signatures to Different Types of Overland Rainfall Found over the Korean Peninsula
Authors: Seo Eun-Kyoung , Liu Guosheng , Suh Myoung-Seok , Sohn Byung-Ju
Published: December 2009

The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) precipitation radar and ground rain measurements were used to investigate the performance of the TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI) land algorithm. In particular, data from a dense network of rain gauges being operated over the Korean Peninsula were utilized. To retrieve information related to the rainfall rate over land, the TRMM land algorithm relies mainly on brightness temperature TB depression at vertically polarized 85(V) GHz because of scattering by ice particles. It refers to the relationships between 85(V)-GHz TBs and rain rates in its predefined database. By comparing the TMI rain rates with the surface rain gauge and TRMM radar measurements, it was found that there are a variety of relationships between 85(V)-GHz TBs and rainfall rates resulting from the various types of precipitating clouds. The TMI land algorithm, therefore, could not resolve some raining clouds such as warm clouds as well as cold clouds having small amounts of ice particles above the rain layer. The rainfall amounts for those missed rain events are significant. As a result, rain rates produced by the land algorithm show systematic biases, which are a function of raining cloud types. Meanwhile, it is found that the 37-GHz TMI channels contain additional information on surface rain; the uncertainties in retrieving rain rates from TBs at TMI frequencies can be reduced up to 11% if all polarized 37- and 85-GHz TBs are used as predictors.