bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STRUCTURAL SOLUTIONS IMPACT ON THERMAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY OF HEATING SURFACE AT AN OPEN SPACE
Authors: Kaczorek Dobrosława , Koczyk Halina
Published: December 2013

This paper presents studies on thermal energy efficiency of heating surface at an open space according to structural solutions and climatic conditions. Numerical simulation research was conducted to assess three different types of heating surfaces at an open space over chosen period of time in real weather conditions. Performance parameters such as surface temperature, supply temperature and efficiency of heating surface relative to constructional designs and model of control strategy used were analysed. The number, thickness and type of material layers beneath ground level were modified. The distance between heating pipes and their diameters were kept constant. The carried out analyses show that the used solutions can lead to significant differences in the performance and consequently in the energy efficiency of the heating system for open spaces.
A SPLITTING PRECONDITIONER FOR THE INCOMPRESSIBLE NAVIER–STOKES EQUATIONS
Authors: Hu Ze-Jun , Huang Ting-Zhu , Tan Ning-Bo
Published: December 2013

In this paper, a splitting preconditioner based on the relaxed dimensional factorization (RDF) preconditioner and the modified augmented Lagrangian (MAL) preconditioner for the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations is presented. The preconditioned matrix is analyzed, and similar results arising from the RDF and the MAL preconditioners are obtained. The corresponding details of the spectrum analysis are given. Finally, we compare the three preconditioners and numerical experiments are implemented by using the IFISS package.
REDUCED ORDER MODELS BASED ON POD METHOD FOR SCHRÖDINGER EQUATIONS
Authors: Jankevičiutė Gerda , Leonavičienė Teresė , Čiegis Raimondas , Bugajev Andrej
Published: December 2013

Reduced-order models (ROM) are developed using the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) for one dimensional linear and nonlinear Schrödinger equations. The main aim of this paper is to study the accuracy and robustness of the ROM approximations. The sensitivity of generated optimal basis functions on various parameters of the algorithms is discussed. Errors between POD approximate solutions and exact problem solutions are calculated. Results of numerical experiments are presented.
CONTRIBUTIONS OF OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT TO THE COMPETITIVENESS OF THE BRAZILIAN ELECTRONICS SECTOR
Authors: Jabbour Ana Beatriz Lopes de Sousa , Jabbour Charbel José Chiappetta
Published: December 2013

The objective of this paper is to identify and analyze various aspects of the internal and external operations management of Brazil's electronics sector and to consider the opportunities for and the threats to increasing the competitiveness of its participation in the global supply chain. To address this shortage in the literature, a survey of Brazilian Electric and Electronic Industry Association (ABINEE) companies was conducted. The collected data were complemented with secondary data to establish an overall view of the electronics sector in Brazil. The results suggest that electronics product assembly companies have the opportunity to invest more in information technology to expand process integration, plan and develop products, integrate customers, and maintain rather than expand their supply chain practices. The alignment between internal and external operations management becomes important in this context. The originality of this paper lies in its clarification of operations management in an economically important sector and the insight it provides to academics, practitioners and policy makers involved in the domestic and international electronics sector.
DOES A CONNECTION EXIST AMONG NATIONAL CULTURE, ALLIANCE STRATEGY, AND LEADING ICT FIRMS’ PERFORMANCE?
Authors: Golonka Monika , Rzadca Robert
Published: December 2013

In this paper we explore links among firms’ performance, firms’ alliance strategies, and national culture in the context of the global information and communication technologies (ICT) industry. Currently, partnering is the one of the most effective ways to access a broad set of resources. In the ICT industry, we can observe a significant number of alliances, networks, and mergers and acquisitions. The contribution of this paper is to investigate how a contextual factor – namely, national culture – influences the alliance portfolio formation and a firm’s performance. We also aim to contribute to the issue of alliance portfolio formation. First, the concepts of alliance portfolio and culture as an explanatory factor are elaborated upon and their relevance to the study discussed. Second, using a sample of 30 ICT leaders and 10,247 of their alliances, we explore the effect of alliance strategy on firms’ performance as well as the connections among culture, firms’ performance, and alliance strategy. The study confirms that, in a global ICT industry (i.e., the most dynamically changing and riskiest environment), weak alliances may increase a firm’s performance more than strong, traditional strategic alliances. Culture may be used as one of the explanatory factors affecting firms’ performance as well as firms’ alliance strategies. Reference to this paper should be made as follows: Golonka, M.; Rzadca, R. 2013. Does a connection exist among national culture, alliance strategy, and leading ICT firms’ performance?, Journal of Business Economics and Management 14(Supplement 1): S395–S412.
AN EVALUATION OF VENDOR MANAGED INVENTORY PRACTICES FROM SMALL AND MEDIUM INDIAN ENTERPRISES
Authors: Shen Lixin , Govindan Kannan , Borade Atul B. , Diabat Ali , Kannan Devika
Published: December 2013

Vendor managed inventory has proven to be an effective tool for improving the supply chain performance by decreasing inventory-related costs and increasing customer service. It is quite evident from the literature that vendor managed inventory (VMI) has been successfully implemented in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). However, studies related to the implementation of VMI in Indian SMEs are very limited. Therefore, this study presents an empirical investigation of VMI practices in Indian SMEs using survey methodology. The paper evaluates the benefits, barriers, and effects of adopting VMI in Indian SMEs, and also investigates the IT tools and software used for VMI adoption. Furthermore, this study explores the dissimilarities among various sectors of SMEs adopting VMI. Based on the proposed methodology, it is found that organizational issues and unwillingness to share information are the major barriers. In terms of benefits, the major influencing variables are improved efficiency and improved channel relations.
TECHNICAL EVALUATION OF A RUNWAY USING THE DEFLECTION METHOD
Authors: Yadav Devinder K. , Nikraz Hamid
Published: December 2013

An aircraft imposes a heavy load on a runway during landing, resulting in deflection of the runway pavement. Therefore, runway performance is influenced by potential deflection levels. Estimating deflection at touch-down point is a challenging task, however. Generally, the applied load depends on the weight and vertical velocity of the aircraft before hitting the touchdown point. Similarly, performance of runway pavement is influenced by many factors such as number of landings, load factor, soil characteristics, etc. This study discusses landing practices, imposed load analysis, and runway pavement evaluation. The study is based on the idealisation of runway characteristics using mechanical elements, and it suggests that the mechanical modelling approach can be applied to estimate runway deflection. As a result, the analytically predicted deflection findings instead of the semi-empirical practices currently followed by various states of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (hereinafter – ICAO) can be used to carry out technical evaluation of a runway pavement.
FACTORS AFFECTING CUSTOMER LOYALTY OF MOBILE RFID SERVICES IN KOREA
Authors: Park Yong-Jae , Rim Myung-Hwan , Lee Seung-Koog
Published: December 2013

Mobile radio frequency identification (RFID) services are expected to be launched in full-scale as a new service option in the telecommunications service market following the development of RFID technology and maturation of the IT infrastructure. Importance of customer loyalty has been widely recognized in business marketing for a long time, and the customer loyalty enhancement strategies for mobile RFID services is of significance to telecommunication carriers in terms of new business value creation. This study identifies the factors affecting customer loyalty for mobile RFID services and presents telecommunication service managers with information useful for improving customer loyalty for related new services. The data was collected from customers with some experience in the use of mobile RFID services through an online survey for an empirical analysis. And the collected data was analysed with structural equation model to verify the cause and effect relationship among perceived quality, switching cost, perceived value, customer satisfaction, switching barrier and customer relationship. The analysis showed that the quality of tag recognition and content quality proved to have a direct impact on the customer satisfaction, whereas connection quality and ease of use would rather indirectly than directly influence customer satisfaction by perceived value. Perceived value and satisfaction affected the loyalty. Adaptation cost affects switching barriers, the higher the switching barriers, the stronger the loyalty. Based on the results of the empirical analysis, practical implications were given. What is more, mobile RFID customers were divided into two groups that are favourably and unfavourably disposed toward the service, and suggested customer loyalty improvement strategies adapted for each group.
THE IDENTITY OF ARCHITECTURAL STUDIES IN VILNIUS GEDIMINAS TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY / VGTU ARCHITEKTŪROS STUDIJŲ TAPATUMAS
Authors: Riaubienė Edita , Ziberkas Leonidas Pranas
Published: December 2013

The shift in the evolution of the concept of architecture impacts on the content of architectural profession and determines the curriculum transformations. The area of architecture covers an increasing variety of activities, which results in a growing number of competencies for an architect. This is the reason behind the increasing number of subjects. This development does not provide sufficient interdisciplinary connections; additionally, it is unable to ensure curriculum integrity and continuity. This research aimed to determine the relationship between the tradition and innovation in the architectural studies offered by VGTU, focusing on the nature of change since the establishment of higher education institution. The origins and development of the study program were investigated in light of the change of its concept, structure and teaching methods, recording unchanging views and innovations as well as reasons and goals for their occurrence. The results of such research allows seeing the identity of architectural studies offered by Vilnius Gediminas Technical University. Santrauka Architektūros sampratos kitimas veikia architekto profesijos turinį ir lemia jo ugdymo programų transformacijas. Į architektūros sritį įtraukiama vis daugiau veiklos sričių, todėl plečiasi architektui būtinų kompetencijų sąrašas, neišvengiamai auga ir dėstomų disciplinų skaičius. Tokia kiekybinė plėtra neužtikrina pakankamų tarpdalykinių jungčių ir todėl problemiškas tampa studijų programų vientisumas ir tęstinumas. Tyrimu siekiama nustatyti VGTU architektūros studijų tradicijos ir naujovių santykį, analizuojant kaitos pobūdį nuo pat mokyklos įkūrimo. Architektūros studijų programos ištakos ir raida analizuojama stebint koncepcijos, sandaros ir mokymo metodų kaitą, fiksuojant nekintančias nuostatas ir naujoves bei jų pasireiškimo priežastis ir tikslus. Tokio tyrimo rezultatas leidžia įžvelgti VGTU architektūrinės mokyklos tapatumo bruožus.
Tools to Assist Meeting Planning
Authors: Vivacqua Adriana S. , Ferreira Marcos S. , de Souza Jano M.
Published: December 2013

Meetings take up a large amount of time, especially at the upper managerial levels. To help meetings progress smoothly and reach desired goals, meeting facilitators are frequently called in. Facilitators have at their disposal a number of techniques, including thinkLets. Through the use of thinkLets, facilitators can plan the meeting beforehand, deciding which activities to perform at each point. However, even with the use of thinkLets, designing a meeting is not an easy task, in particular for novice facilitators. A number of considerations must be made when selecting activities and designing the meeting dynamics. In this paper, the authors discuss this problem and present a framework and a system to assist the design of meetings, electronic or otherwise, using thinkLets and compatibility rules. The framework implements rules to help facilitators select and link thinkLets together in and orderly fashion, designing the meeting in the process.
Adoptively Transferred Immune T Cells Eradicate Established Tumors despite Cancer-Induced Immune Suppression
Authors: Arina Ainhoa , Schreiber Karin , Binder David C. , Karrison Theodore G. , Liu Rebecca B. , Schreiber Hans
Published: December 2013

Myeloid-derived CD11b+Gr1+ suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are considered a major obstacle for effective adoptive T cell therapy. Myeloid cells suppress naive T cell proliferation ex vivo and can prevent the generation of T cell responses in vivo. We find, however, that adoptively transferred immune T cells eradicate well-established tumors in the presence of MDSCs and TAMs, which are strongly immunosuppressive ex vivo. These MDSCs and TAMs were comparable in numbers and immunosuppressive capacity among different tumor models. Longitudinal microscopy of tumors in vivo revealed that after T cell transfer, tumor vasculature and cancer cells disappeared simultaneously. During T cell–mediated tumor destruction, the tumor stroma contained abundant myeloid cells (mainly TAMs) that retained their suppressive properties. Preimmunized but not naive mice resisted immune suppression caused by an unrelated tumor burden, supporting the idea that in vivo, myeloid immunosuppressive cells can suppress naive but not memory T cell responses.
IFN-γ–Mediated Induction of an Apical IL-10 Receptor on Polarized Intestinal Epithelia
Authors: Kominsky Douglas J. , Campbell Eric L. , Ehrentraut Stefan F. , Wilson Kelly E. , Kelly Caleb J. , Glover Louise E. , Collins Colm B. , Bayless Amanda J. , Saeedi Bejan , Dobrinskikh Evgenia , Bowers Brittelle E. , MacManus Christopher F. , Müller Werner , Colgan Sean P. , Bruder Dunja
Published: December 2013

Cytokines secreted at sites of inflammation impact the onset, progression, and resolution of inflammation. In this article, we investigated potential proresolving mechanisms of IFN-γ in models of inflammatory bowel disease. Guided by initial microarray analysis, in vitro studies revealed that IFN-γ selectively induced the expression of IL-10R1 on intestinal epithelia. Further analysis revealed that IL-10R1 was expressed predominantly on the apical membrane of polarized epithelial cells. Receptor activation functionally induced canonical IL-10 target gene expression in epithelia, concomitant with enhanced barrier restitution. Furthermore, knockdown of IL-10R1 in intestinal epithelial cells results in impaired barrier function in vitro. Colonic tissue isolated from murine colitis revealed that levels of IL-10R1 and suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 were increased in the epithelium and coincided with increased tissue IFN-γ and IL-10 cytokines. In parallel, studies showed that treatment of mice with rIFN-γ was sufficient to drive expression of IL-10R1 in the colonic epithelium. Studies of dextran sodium sulfate colitis in intestinal epithelial-specific IL-10R1–null mice revealed a remarkable increase in disease susceptibility associated with increased intestinal permeability. Together, these results provide novel insight into the crucial and underappreciated role of epithelial IL-10 signaling in the maintenance and restitution of epithelial barrier and of the temporal regulation of these pathways by IFN-γ.
Autophagy Induction by SIRT6 through Attenuation of Insulin-like Growth Factor Signaling Is Involved in the Regulation of Human Bronchial Epithelial Cell Senescence
Authors: Takasaka Naoki , Araya Jun , Hara Hiromichi , Ito Saburo , Kobayashi Kenji , Kurita Yusuke , Wakui Hiroshi , Yoshii Yutaka , Yumino Yoko , Fujii Satoko , Minagawa Shunsuke , Tsurushige Chikako , Kojima Jun , Numata Takanori , Shimizu Kenichiro , Kawaishi Makoto , Kaneko Yumi , Kamiya Noriki , Hirano Jun , Odaka Makoto , Morikawa Toshiaki , Nishimura Stephen L. , Nakayama Katsutoshi , Kuwano Kazuyoshi
Published: December 2013

Cigarette smoke (CS)–induced cellular senescence has been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and SIRT6, a histone deacetylase, antagonizes this senescence, presumably through the attenuation of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-Akt signaling. Autophagy controls cellular senescence by eliminating damaged cellular components and is negatively regulated by IGF-Akt signaling through the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). SIRT1, a representative sirtuin family, has been demonstrated to activate autophagy, but a role for SIRT6 in autophagy activation has not been shown. Therefore, we sought to investigate the regulatory role for SIRT6 in autophagy activation during CS-induced cellular senescence. SIRT6 expression levels were modulated by cDNA and small interfering RNA transfection in human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs). Senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining and Western blotting of p21 were performed to evaluate senescence. We demonstrated that SIRT6 expression levels were decreased in lung homogenates from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients, and SIRT6 expression levels correlated significantly with the percentage of forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity. CS extract (CSE) suppressed SIRT6 expression in HBECs. CSE-induced HBEC senescence was inhibited by SIRT6 overexpression, whereas SIRT6 knockdown and mutant SIRT6 (H133Y) without histone deacetylase activity enhanced HBEC senescence. SIRT6 overexpression induced autophagy via attenuation of IGF-Akt-mTOR signaling. Conversely, SIRT6 knockdown and overexpression of a mutant SIRT6 (H133Y) inhibited autophagy. Autophagy inhibition by knockdown of ATG5 and LC3B attenuated the antisenescent effect of SIRT6 overexpression. These results suggest that SIRT6 is involved in CSE-induced HBEC senescence via autophagy regulation, which can be attributed to attenuation of IGF-Akt-mTOR signaling.
Pitfalls of Counterfactual Thinking in Medical Practice: Preventing Errors by using more Functional Reference Points
Authors: Petrocelli John V.
Published: December 2013

Background

Counterfactual thinking involves mentally simulating alternatives to reality. The current article reviews literature pertaining to the relevance counterfactual thinking has for the quality of medical decision making. Although earlier counterfactual thought research concluded that counterfactuals have important benefits for the individual, there are reasons to believe that counterfactual thinking is also associated with dysfunctional consequences. Of particular focus is whether or not medical experience, and its influence on counterfactual thinking, actually informs or improves medical practice. It is hypothesized that relatively more probable decision alternatives, followed by undesirable outcomes and counterfactual thought responses, can be abandoned for relatively less probable decision alternatives.

Design and Methods

Building on earlier research demonstrating that counterfactual thinking can impede memory and learning in a decision paradigm with undergraduate students, the current study examines the extent to which earlier findings can be generalized to practicing physicians (N=10). Participants were asked to complete 60 trials of a computerized Monty Hall Problem simulation. Learning by experience was operationalized as the frequency of switch-decisions.

Results

Although some learning was evidenced by a general increase in switch-decision frequency across block trials, the extent of learning demonstrated was not ideal, nor practical.

Conclusions

A simple, multiple-trial, decision paradigm demonstrated that doctors fail to learn basic decision-outcome associations through experience. An agenda for future research, which tests the functionality of reference points (other than counterfactual alternatives) for the purposes of medical decision making, is proposed.
Understanding Safety in Healthcare: The System Evolution, Erosion and Enhancement Model
Authors: Carthey Jane
Published: December 2013

The paper summarises previous theories of accident causation, human error, foresight, resilience and system migration. Five lessons from these theories are used as the foundation for a new model which describes how patient safety emerges in complex systems like healthcare: the System Evolution Erosion and Enhancement model. It is concluded that to improve patient safety, healthcare organisations need to understand how system evolution both enhances and erodes patient safety.
What to do with Healthcare Incident Reporting Systems
Authors: Pham Julius Cuong , Girard Thierry , Pronovost Peter J.
Published: December 2013

Incident Reporting Systems (IRS) are and will continue to be an important influence on improving patient safety. They can provide valuable insights into how and why patients can be harmed at the organizational level. However, they are not the panacea that many believe them to be. They have several limitations that should be considered. Most of these limitations stem from inherent biases of voluntary reporting systems. These limitations include: i) IRS can't be used to measure safety (error rates); ii) IRS can't be used to compare organizations; iii) IRS can't be used to measure changes over time; iv) IRS generate too many reports; v) IRS often don't generate in-depth analyses or result in strong interventions to reduce risk; vi) IRS are associated with costs. IRS do offer significant value; their value is found in the following: i) IRS can be used to identify local system hazards; ii) IRS can be used to aggregate experiences for uncommon conditions; iii) IRS can be used to share lessons within and across organizations; iv) IRS can be used to increase patient safety culture. Moving forward, several strategies are suggested to maximize their value: i) make reporting easier; ii) make reporting meaningful to the reporter; iii) make the measure of success system changes, rather than events reported; iv) prioritize which events to report and investigate, report and investigate them well; v) convene with diverse stakeholders to enhance the value of IRS.
WHO Efforts to Promote Reporting of Adverse Events and Global Learning
Authors: Larizgoitia Itziar , Bouesseau Marie-Charlotte , Kelley Edward
Published: December 2013

Despite the importance of reporting systems to learn about the casual chain and consequences of patient safety incidents, this is an area that requires of further conceptual and technical developments to conduce reporting to effective learning. The World Health Organization, through its Patient Safety Programme, adopted as a priority the objective to facilitate and stimulate global learning through enhanced reporting of patient safety incidents. Landmark developments were the WHO Draft Guidelines for Adverse Event Reporting and Learning Systems, and the Conceptual Framework for the International Classification for Patient Safety, as well as the Global Community of Practice for Reporting and Learning Systems. WHO is currently working with a range of scientists, medical informatics specialists and healthcare officials from various countries around the world, to arrive at a Minimal Information Model that could serve as a basis to structure the core of reporting systems in a comparable manner across the world. Undoubtedly, there is much need for additional scientific developments in this challenging and innovative area. For effective reporting systems and enhanced global learning, other key contextual factors are essential for reporting to serve to the needs of clinicians, patients and the healthcare system at large. Moreover, the new data challenges and needs of organizations must be assessed as the era of big data comes to heath care. These considerations delineate a broad agenda for action, which offer an ambitious challenge for WHO and their partners interested in strengthening learning for improving through reporting and communicating about patient safety incidents.
Construction of Genetic Linkage Map and QTL Analysis of Sink-Size Traits in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum)
Authors: Vengadessan V. , Rai K. N. , Kannan Bapu J. R. , Hash C. T. , Bhattacharjee R. , Senthilvel S. , Vinayan M. T. , Nepolean T.
Published: December 2013

A linkage map, primarily based on SSCP-SNP markers, was constructed using 188 F2:3mapping population progenies produced from a cross between two pearl millet inbred lines having diverse parentage. The skeleton linkage map covered 1019 cM and it comprised of 44 markers distributed across the seven linkage groups. Average adjacent-marker intervals ranged from 14 cM on LG1 to 38 cM on LG6, with an overall mean of 23 cM. Using the F2linkage map and phenotypic data from the F2and F2:3generations of the mapping population, a total of 18 putative QTLs were detected for the three sink-size components. Eight QTLs explained 42.7% of observed phenotypic variation for panicle length using the F2:3data set. For panicle diameter, 5 QTLs explained 45.8% of observed phenotypic variation. Similarly for grain size, 5 QTLs explained 29.6% of phenotypic variation. Genomic regions associated with panicle length, panicle diameter, and grain size were comapped on LG6 between Xpsms88 and Xpsms2270, indicating the existence of a gene or gene cluster. The QTLs for panicle length on LG2 and LG6 (LOD>3in both F2and F2:3data sets), for panicle diameter on LG2 and LG3 (LOD>14in the F2:3data set), and for grain size on LG3 and LG6 (LOD>3in both F2and F2:3data sets) were identified as promising candidates for validation prior to possible application in marker-assisted breeding.
Oyster mycelium on the liquid medium
Authors: Gapiński Mariusz , Woźniak Wanda , Ziombra Mirosława , Murawska Joanna
Published: December 2013

The research presents the results of oyster mycelium growth on the liquid medium. The growth of 4-mycelium genius: Pleurotus citrinopileatus Singer, Pleurotus djamor Fries, Boedjin, Pleurotus erynii Fr. Kumm. and Pleurotus precoce Fr. Quel was tested. The quality and quantity of mycelium was assumed.
Wood-inhabiting fungi on pedunculate oak coarse woody debris in relation to substratum quantity and forest age
Authors: Iršėnaitė Reda , Kutorga Ernestas
Published: December 2013

Wood-inhabiting fungi on pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) coarse woody debris (CWD) was investigated in 50 plots of 0.1 ha in oak stands of different ages in Lithuania. In maturing stands (50-120 years) the average volume of oak CWD was 4.7 m3/ha, and in mature stands (over 120 years) – 13.9 m3/ha. Both in maturing and mature stands, the greatest fraction of CWD consisted of fallen oak branches (81 % and 84 % respectively), whereas fallen trunks comprised about 10 % of the total units of CWD. In total 1350 records of 203 species (49 ascomycetes and 154 basidiomycetes) were collected during 2 years of investigation. Species richness and abundance increased significantly with the increase of volume and abundance of CWD. Higher species richness was detected in mature stands than in maturing ones. Wood-inhabiting species composition varied greatly at stand scale, and one third of all detected species occurred only in one plot. Red-listed fungi were found only in mature stands. We conclude that, even in managed oak stands, oak CWD maintains a rather diverse species composition of ascomycetes and basidiomycetes. However, the current practice of forestry in Lithuania of removing dying or dead wood of large volume, e.g. standing and fallen trunks, reduce the distribution of highly specialized, usually rare, and endangered fungi.
New and interesting records of freshwater Verrucaria in Central Poland
Authors: Krzewicka Beata , Hachułka Mariusz
Published: December 2013

Verrucaria madida is reported as new to Poland. Three other associated species, V. aquatilis, V. hydrela and V. rheitrophila, are compared. The known distribution in Poland and the ecology of these freshwater species are presented.
New records of smut fungi from Venezuela: Anthracoidea uleana, Sporisorium panici-petrosi and Ustilago schroeteriana
Authors: Piątek Marcin
Published: December 2013

Three smut fungi from Venezuela are described, illustrated and discussed based on newly studied collections. Ustilago schroeteriana Henn. is reported for the first time from the country. Anthracoidea uleana (Syd. & P. Syd.) Vánky is confirmed in Venezuela on Carex longii Mack., which is an accessory host for this smut. Sporisorium panici-petrosi (Syd. & P. Syd.) M. Piepenbr. is reported on Thrasya sp. from a second world locality in northern Venezuela, its description is slightly expanded and issues concerning typification of this name and the nomenclature of the host in the type collection are clarified and corrected.
New records of lichens from the Polish uplands
Authors: Łubek Anna
Published: December 2013

Five lichen species: Bacidia pycnidiata, Fellhanera gyrophorica, Leucocarpia biatorella, Parmotrema perlatum and Punctelia ulophylla, are presented. Bacidia pycnidiata, Leucocarpia biatorella, Punctelia ulophylla are new to Central Poland. Bacidia pycnidiata is reported from Poland for the third time.
Cassini Flybys Reveal Details About Titan Seas and Lakes
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: December 2013

The Cassini spacecraft's flybys of Saturn's moon Titan reveal new details about the sizes, depths, and locations of the seas and lakes, whose liquid is mostly methane, that dot the moon's northern hemisphere, according to findings presented by scientists at a 12 December news briefing at the AGU Fall Meeting in San Francisco, Calif.
Dynamics of the Earth's Radiation Belts and Inner Magnetosphere
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: December 2013

Trapped by Earth's magnetic field far above the planet's surface, the energetic particles that fill the radiation belts are a sign of the Sun's influence and a threat to our technological future. In the AGU monograph Dynamics of the Earth's Radiation Belts and Inner Magnetosphere, editors Danny Summers, Ian R. Mann, Daniel N. Baker, and Michael Schulz explore the inner workings of the magnetosphere. The book reviews current knowledge of the magnetosphere and recent research results and sets the stage for the work currently being done by NASA's Van Allen Probes (formerly known as the Radiation Belt Storm Probes). In this interview, Eos talks to Summers about magnetospheric research, whistler mode waves, solar storms, and the effects of the radiation belts on Earth.
Model describes river meandering
Authors: Balcerak Ernie
Published: December 2013

Understanding and predicting the evolution of meandering rivers could be useful to geoscientists as well as to engineers who may be dealing with practical problems related to river movement. Asahi et al. created a computational model for predicting the evolution of complex meandering rivers that captures short‐term processes, such as flooding, and ­longer‐term processes. The model considers bank erosion, land accretion along meander bends, and the formation of channel cutoffs and describes how river width and sinuosity evolve together. In general, the authors found that discharge variation plays an important role in the shape and behavior of river meanders. They note that their model produces a rich pattern of meander evolution that appears to be consistent with that observed in natural rivers.
Sudden geoengineering termination could cause a huge warming spike
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: December 2013

Atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases are climbing, a trend that shows little sign of abating. This reality has prompted some scientists to seriously consider the prospects of geoengineering. In a new modeling study looking at the consequences of geoengineering gone awry, Jones et al. found that the sudden termination of a large‐scale geoengineering project could drive half a century's worth of warming in just a few years.
Interpreting the strongest deep earthquake ever observed
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: December 2013

Massive earthquakes that strike deep within the Earth may be more efficient at dissipating pent‐up energy than similar quakes near the surface, according to new research by Wei et al. The authors analyzed the rupture of the most powerful deep earthquake ever recorded.
Association Between Inflammatory Biomarkers and Bone Mineral Density in a Community‐Based Cohort of Men and Women
Authors: Sponholtz Todd R. , Zhang Xiaochun , Fontes Joao D. T. , Meigs James B. , Cupples L. Adrienne , Kiel Douglas P. , Hannan Marian T. , McLean Robert R.
Published: December 2013

Objective

Based upon evidence in animal and in vitro studies, we tested the hypothesis that higher serum concentrations of the cytokines interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and the inflammatory marker C‐reactive protein (CRP) would be inversely associated with bone mineral density (BMD) in a community‐based cohort of men and women, with the strongest associations among postmenopausal women not receiving menopause hormonal therapy (MHT).

Methods

We ascertained fasting serum concentrations of IL‐6, TNFα, and CRP and measured BMD at the femoral neck, trochanter, total femur, and spine (L2–L4) using dual x‐ray absorptiometry in 2,915 members of the Framingham Offspring Study (1996–2001). We used multivariable linear regression to estimate the difference (β) in BMD at each bone site associated with a 1‐unit increase in log‐transformed serum concentrations of IL‐6, TNFα, and CRP separately for men (n = 1,293), premenopausal women (n = 231), postmenopausal women receiving MHT (n = 498), and postmenopausal women not receiving MHT (n = 893).

Results

Inflammatory biomarkers were not associated with BMD in men. Among premenopausal women, there were statistically significant, modest inverse associations between IL‐6 and trochanter BMD (β = −0.030, P < 0.01) and between CRP and femoral neck (β = −0.015, P = 0.05) and trochanter BMD (β = −0.014, P = 0.04). TNFα was positively associated with spine BMD (β = 0.043, P = 0.01). In postmenopausal women receiving MHT, CRP was positively associated with femoral neck BMD (β = 0.011, P = 0.04). There were no associations among postmenopausal women not receiving MHT.

Conclusion

The lack of consistency in our results suggests that elevated circulating concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers may not be a risk factor for low BMD.
The evolutionary history ofSLC6A4and the role of plasticity inmacaca
Authors: Shattuck Milena R. , Satkoski‐Trask Jessica , Deinard Amos , Tito Raul Y. , Smith David G. , Malhi Ripan S.
Published: December 2013

Serotonin has been repeatedly indicated as a biological marker of behavior. In particular, the serotonin transporter gene,SLC6A4, has been the focus of a large body of research. Interestingly, both rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) and humans have independently evolved a number of shared polymorphisms for this gene, which is indicative of parallel evolution between the two species. However, little is known about the evolution of this gene, particularly within macaques. Although there are several hypotheses as to the adaptive values of various polymorphisms, few authors have gone beyond theoretical discussion. Here, we examined the genetic variation inSLC6A4within and between several species of macaques and investigate whether selection has played a significant role in its evolutionary history. In addition, we assayed the promoter region polymorphism, 5‐HTTLPR, which is known to play a significant role in regulating both serotonin turnover and behavior.

In examining the distribution of the 5‐HTTLPR polymorphism, we identified significant differences between Indian and Chinese populations ofMacaca mulatta; furthermore, we discovered its presence inMacaca cyclopis, which has not been described before. In regard to the evolutionary history ofSLC6A4, we found little evidence for selection and conclude thatSLC6A4largely evolved through neutral processes, possibly due to its potential role in regulating behavioral plasticity. However, we also found very low levels of linkage between the coding regions and 5‐HTTLPR. Because we limited evolutionary analyses to the coding regions, it is possible that the promoter region shows a distinct evolutionary history fromSLC6A4. Am J Phys Anthropol 153:605–616, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and characterization of polyaspartic acid–glutamic acid grafted copolymers and their performances as detergent builder
Authors: Zhu Dongyu , Guo Jianwei , Yang Ping , Pan Lihui , Zhong Xing , Chen Shaohua
Published: December 2013

Polysuccinimide (PSI) was first synthesized via thermal polycondensation reaction using maleic anhydride and urea as the starting materials. Then, polyaspartic acid–glutamic acid (PASP–GLU) grafted copolymers were prepared from PSI and GLU. The structure of PASP–GLU was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The molecular weight was measured by gel permeation chromatography, and the crystallinity was analyzed by X‐ray diffraction spectra. The effects of grafting ratio on the builder performances were systematically studied, as well as on the thermal property and biodegradability. It is demonstrated that as the grafting ratio of GLU increases, the thermal stability and biodegradability decrease a little, but still maintain in high level. Most importantly, the incorporation of GLU into side chains significantly improves the builder performance of PASP–GLU. The maximum values for calcium ion chelating power, dispersion power of CaCO3, and alkali‐buffer ability reach 233.2 mg, 108.9 mg, and 1.70 mL, respectively, at the highest grafting ratio, in which the dispersion power of CaCO3 and alkali‐buffer ability are even better than that of sodium tripolyphosphate. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40282.
Reverse Interferon Signature Is Characteristic of Antigen‐Presenting Cells in Human and Rat Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Fert Ingrid , Cagnard Nicolas , Glatigny Simon , Letourneur Franck , Jacques Sébastien , Smith Judith A. , Colbert Robert A. , Taurog Joel D. , Chiocchia Gilles , Araujo Luiza M. , Breban Maxime
Published: December 2013

Objective

In HLA–B27–transgenic rats, the development of a disorder that mimics spondyloarthritis (SpA) is highly correlated with dendritic cell (DC) dysfunction. The present study was undertaken to analyze the underlying mechanisms of this via transcriptome analysis.

Methods

Transcriptome analysis of ex vivo–purified splenic CD103+CD4+ DCs from B27‐transgenic rats and control rats was performed. Transcriptional changes in selected genes were confirmed by quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. A meta‐analysis of our rat data and published data on gene expression in macrophages from ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients was further performed.

Results

Interferon (IFN) signaling was the most significantly affected pathway in DCs from B27‐transgenic rats; the majority of genes connected to IFN were underexpressed in B27‐transgenic rats as compared to controls. This pattern was already present at disease onset, persisted over time, and was conserved in 2 disease‐prone B27‐transgenic rat lines. In DCs from B27‐transgenic rats, we further found an up‐regulation of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (which may account for reverse IFN signaling) and a down‐regulation of interleukin‐27 (a cytokine that opposes Th17 differentiation and promotes Treg cells). The meta‐analysis of data on conventional DCs from rats and data on monocyte‐derived macrophages from humans revealed 7 IFN‐regulated genes that were negatively regulated in both human and rat SpA (i.e., IRF1, STAT1, CXCL9, CXCL10, IFIT3, DDX60, and EPSTI1).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that expression of HLA–B27 leads to a defect in IFNγ signaling in antigen‐presenting cells in both B27‐transgenic rats and SpA patients, which may result in Th17 expansion and Treg cell alteration (as shown in B27‐transgenic rats) and contribute to disease pathogenesis.
Brief Report: Impaired In Vivo Neovascularization Capacity of Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Kuwana Masataka , Okazaki Yuka
Published: December 2013

Objective

Defective vasculogenesis is thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc). We undertook this study to explore the in vivo functional capacity of CD34+CD133+CD309+ endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in SSc patients.

Methods

CD133+ cells and EPCs were enumerated by flow cytometry. Immunomagnetically sorted circulating CD133+ cells from 16 patients with SSc and 12 healthy subjects, as well as murine colon carcinoma CT‐26 cells, were transplanted beneath the skin of SCID mice. Tumor volume and blood vessel density were measured 10 days later. Human EPC incorporation into the vascular wall was evaluated using tumor sections double stained for mouse CD31 and human CD31.

Results

The number of CD133+ cells and EPCs was significantly decreased in SSc patients as compared to healthy controls (P = 0.001 and P = 0.02, respectively), while the proportion of EPCs in CD133+ cells was similar between the 2 groups. CT‐26 cells produced markedly stronger tumor growth and neovessel formation when transplanted with CD133+ cells from healthy subjects than when transplanted with CD133+ cells from SSc patients (P = 0.001 and P = 0.008, respectively). Tumors from mice that received transplants of CT‐26 cells and SSc‐derived CD133+ cells formed fewer vessels incorporating human EPC–derived mature endothelial cells than did tumors from mice that received transplants of CT‐26 cells and CD133+ cells from healthy control subjects (P = 0.0002).

Conclusion

We established a system that can be used to evaluate the in vivo neovascularization capacity of freshly isolated EPCs. EPCs contribute to vascularization by incorporating into vessel walls and by differentiating into endothelial cells. These EPC functions are impaired in SSc.
Periostin induces chemoresistance in colon cancer cells through activation of the PI3K/Akt/survivin pathway
Authors: Xiao Zhi‐ming , Wang Xiao‐yan , Wang Ai‐min
Published: December 2013

In the present study, we aimed to explore the effects of periostin, a cell adhesion protein, on chemoresistance in colon cancer cells. Reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analyses were employed to detect periostin expression in SW480 and HT‐29 colon cancer cells treated with oxaliplatin or fluorouracil (5‐FU). Small interfering RNA was used to downregulate endogenous periostin. Annexin‐V/propidium iodide staining was performed to analyze the effects of periostin on drug‐induced apoptosis. The results showed that treatment with oxaliplatin or 5‐FU elevated both the mRNA and protein levels of periostin in SW480 and HT‐29 cells. Silencing of periostin significantly (P < 0.01) augmented drug‐induced apoptosis in colon cancer cells, coupled with enhanced cleavage of caspase‐3 and poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase. Mechanistic studies revealed that periostin silencing significantly (P < 0.01) suppressed the expression of survivin, an antiapoptotic protein in colon cancer cells. Enforced expression of survivin repressed drug‐induced apoptosis in periostin‐depleted SW480 and HT‐29 cells. Additionally, periostin overexpression increased the expression of survivin and the phosphorylation of Akt, which was reversed by pretreatment with the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)‐specific inhibitor LY294002. Taken together, our data demonstrate that periostin induces chemoresistance in colon cancer cells through activation of the PI3K/Akt/survivin pathway.
JavaVis: An integrated computer vision library for teaching computer vision
Authors: Cazorla Miguel , Viejo Diego
Published: December 2013

In this article, we present a new framework oriented to teach Computer Vision related subjects called JavaVis. It is a computer vision library divided in three main areas: 2D package is featured for classical computer vision processing; 3D package, which includes a complete 3D geometric toolset, is used for 3D vision computing; Desktop package comprises a tool for graphic designing and testing of new algorithms. JavaVis is designed to be easy to use, both for launching and testing existing algorithms and for developing new ones. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 23:258–267, 2015; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.21594
Transient folate deprivation facilitates the generation of mouse‐induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Yan Qiuyue , Xu Jie , Hu Wentao , Li Zhen , Wu Jun , Zhang Suming
Published: December 2013

Somatic cells can be reprogrammed into iPS (induced pluripotent stem) cells through the ectopic expression of defined transcription factors. However, the inefficiency and amount of time needed limited the potential application of iPS cells. We report an efficient method to generate iPS cells from MEF (mouse embryonic fibroblasts) through folate‐depriviatoin, which was used to change the methylation of MEF. Without folate for 3 days, the induction efficiency is enhanced fivefold. Karyotype analysis showed that transient folate‐depriving treatment did not negatively affect properties of iPS cells; characterised iPS cells show normal karyotypes. Thus, a new method has been found that can improve the induction efficiency, but not increase the chance of chromosomal mutation.
2013 statement on human papillomavirus DNA test utilization
Authors: Davis Davey Diane , Goulart Robert , Nayar Ritu ,   on behalf of the Cytopathology Education and Technology Consortium (CETC)
Published: December 2013

This statement from the Cytopathology Education and Technology Consortium summarizes appropriate and inappropriate uses of human papillomavirus testing in cervical cancer screening based on guidelines from the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology and the American Cancer Society.