bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolically induced pH fluctuations by some coastal calcifiers exceed projected 22nd century ocean acidification: a mechanism for differential susceptibility?
Authors: Hurd Catriona L. , Cornwall Christopher E. , Currie Kim , Hepburn Christopher D. , McGraw Christina M. , Hunter Keith A. , Boyd Philip W.
Published: June 2011

Anthropogenically mediated decreases in pH, termed ocean acidification (OA), may be a major threat to marine organisms and communities. Research has focussed mainly on tropical coral reefs, but temperate reefs play a no less important ecological role in colder waters, where OA effects may first be manifest. Herein, we report that trends in pH at the surface of three ecologically important cold‐water calcifiers (a primary producer and herbivores), under a range of fluid flows, differ substantially from one another, and for two of the three calcifiers, the pH, during darkness, is lower than the mean projected pH due to OA for the surface waters of the global ocean beyond the year 2100. Using micro‐electrodes, we show that each calcifier had a different pH gradient between its surface and mainstream seawater, i.e. within the diffusion boundary layer (DBL) that appears to act as an environmental buffer to mainstream pH. Abalone encountered only mainstream seawater pH, whereas pH at the sea urchins’ surface was reduced by ~0.35 units. For coralline algae, pH was ~0.5 units higher in the light and ~0.35 units lower under darkness than in ambient mainstream seawater. This wide range of pH within the DBL of some calcifiers will probably affect their performance under projected future reductions in pH due to OA. Differing exposure to a range of surface pH may result in differential susceptibility of calcifiers to OA. Such fluctuations are no doubt regulated by the interplay of water movement, morphology and metabolic rates (e.g. respiration, calcification and/or photosynthesis). Our study, by considering physics (flow regime), chemistry (pH gradients vs. OA future projections) and biology (trophic level, physiology and morphology), reveals that predicting species‐specific responses and subsequent ecosystem restructuring to OA is complex and requires a holistic, eco‐mechanical, approach.
Job demands, job resources and long‐term sickness absence in the Danish eldercare services: a prospective analysis of register‐based outcomes
Authors: Clausen Thomas , Nielsen Karina , Carneiro Isabella Gomes , Borg Vilhelm
Published: June 2011

clausen t., nielsen k., carneiro i.g. & borg v. (2012) Job demands, job resources and long‐term sickness absence in the Danish eldercare services: a prospective analysis of register‐based outcomes. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(1), 127–136.

Aim.  To investigate associations between psychosocial job demands, job resources and cases of registered long‐term sickness absence among nursing staff in the eldercare services.

Background.  Research has shown that psychosocial work environment exposures predict sickness absence in healthcare settings. However, only few studies have longitudinally investigated associations between specific job demands and job resources and risk of long‐term sickness absence.

Methods.  Questionnaire data were collected in 2004 and 2005 among all employees in the eldercare services in 35 Danish municipalities and were followed in a National register on payment of sickness absence compensation for a 1‐year follow‐up period (N = 7921). Three psychosocial job demands – emotional demands, quantitative demands and role conflicts – and three job resources – influence, quality of leadership and team climate – were investigated to predict risk of sickness absence for eight or more consecutive weeks in the follow‐up period. Data were analysed using Cox proportional hazards model.

Results.  A percentage of 6·5 of the respondents were absent for eight or more consecutive weeks during follow‐up. The analyses showed that emotional demands, role conflicts, influence, quality of leadership and team climate were significantly associated with risk of long‐term sickness absence. In an analysis with mutual adjustment for all job demands and job resources, influence constituted the strongest predictor of long‐term sickness absence (negative association).

Conclusions.  Job demands and job resources are significantly associated with risk of long‐term sickness absence. Interventions aimed at improving the psychosocial work environment may, therefore, contribute towards preventing long‐term sickness absence in the eldercare services.
Addressing sexuality issues of women with gynaecological cancer: Chinese nurses’ attitudes and practice
Authors: Zeng Ying Chun , Liu Xiangyu , Loke Alice Yuen
Published: June 2011

zeng y.c., liu x. & loke a.y. (2012) Addressing sexuality issues of women with gynaecological cancer: Chinese nurses’ attitudes and practice. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(2), 280–292.

Aim.  This paper reports a study conducted to describe Chinese nurses’ attitudes and practice in addressing the sexuality concerns of people with gynaecological cancer.

Background.  Women with gynaecological cancer face numerous challenges to their sexuality. The importance of addressing sexuality concerns of people with cancer is emphasized by a growing body of literature in Western countries.

Methods.  This is a descriptive and correlational study. An inventory was adopted to explore Chinese nurses’ attitudes and practice related to sexuality care in nursing. Data were collected from December 2009 to February 2010.

Results.  A sample of 202 nurses working in gynaecological units in China was recruited. Study results revealed that the majority (77·7%) held the attitude that ‘sexuality is too private an issue to discuss with patients’. Only 34·2%‘make time to discuss sexual concerns with patients’. Regression analysis revealed that nurse’ marital status and hospital type in which they were working influenced their practice in sexuality care. Nurses’ conservative attitudes towards sexuality, their prejudices about gynaecological cancer, the lack of availability of private environment, the lack of sexuality care training and the failure to include sexuality care in routine nursing care, were found to be factors that significantly influenced sexual care and nursing practice (adjusted R2 = 0·542, P < 0·001).

Conclusions.  The study findings contribute to the understanding of Chinese nurses’ attitudes and practice in addressing the sexuality concerns of people with gynaecological cancer. There is a need to increase Chinese nurses’ awareness of their roles and the importance of equipping themselves with relevant skills in sexuality care in nursing practice.
Using lichen functional diversity to assess the effects of atmospheric ammonia in Mediterranean woodlands
Authors: Pinho Pedro , Dias Teresa , Cruz Cristina , Sim Tang Y. , Sutton Mark A. , Martins‐Loução Maria‐Amélia , Máguas Cristina , Branquinho Cristina
Published: June 2011

1. Atmospheric ammonia (NH3) is one of the main drivers for ecosystem changes world‐wide, including biodiversity loss. Modelling its deposition to evaluate its impact on ecosystems has been the focus of many studies. For that, universal indicators are needed to determine and compare the early effects of NH3 across ecosystems.

2. We evaluate the effects of atmospheric NH3 in ecosystems using lichens, which are one of the most sensitive communities at the ecosystem level. Rather than measuring total diversity, we use a functional diversity approach because this is potentially a more universal tool.

3. We evaluated the spatial and temporal patterns of atmospheric NH3 concentrations ([NH3]atm) emitted from a point‐source over a 1‐year period in a cork oak Mediterranean woodland. We observed a temporal pattern of [NH3]atm, with maximum concentrations during autumn.

4. The distribution of lichen species was c. 90% explained by [NH3]atm. The tolerance of lichen species to atmospheric NH3, based on expert knowledge from literature, was tested for the first time against direct measurements of atmospheric NH3. Most species were well classified, with the exception of Lecanora albella and Chrysothrix candelaris, which were more tolerant than expected. Our updated lichen classification can be used to establish lichen functional groups that respond to atmospheric NH3, and these can be used in other Mediterranean countries.

5. Increasing [NH3]atm led to a complete replacement of oligotrophic by nitrophytic species within 65 m of the NH3 source. The geostatistical analysis of functional diversity variables yielded a spatial model with low non‐spatial variance, indicating that these variables can cope robustly with high spatial variation in NH3.

6. Synthesis and applications. Our results support the use of functional diversity variables, such as a lichen diversity value, as accurate and robust indicators of the effects of atmospheric NH3 on ecosystems. The spatial modelling of these indicators can provide information with high spatial resolution about the effects of atmospheric NH3 around point‐ and diffuse sources. As this methodology is based on functional groups, it can be applied to monitor both the impact of atmospheric NH3 and the success of mitigation strategies.
Identification of 14‐3‐3 proteins as a target of ATL31 ubiquitin ligase, a regulator of the C/N response in Arabidopsis
Authors: Sato Takeo , Maekawa Shugo , Yasuda Shigetaka , Domeki Yukie , Sueyoshi Kuni , Fujiwara Masayuki , Fukao Yoichiro , Goto Derek B. , Yamaguchi Junji
Published: June 2011

The balance between carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) availability is an important determinant for various phases of plant growth; however, the detailed mechanisms regulating the C/N response are not well understood. We previously described two related ubiquitin ligases, ATL31 and ATL6, that function in the C/N response in Arabidopsis thaliana. Here, we used FLAG tag affinity purification and MS analysis to identify proteins targeted by ATL31, and thus likely to be involved in regulating the phase transition checkpoint based on C/N status. This analysis revealed that 14‐3‐3 proteins were associated with ATL31, and one of these, 14‐3‐3χ, was selected for detailed characterization. The interaction between ATL31 and 14‐3‐3χ was confirmed by yeast two‐hybrid and co‐immunoprecipitation analyses. In vitro assays showed that ubiquitination of 14‐3‐3χ is catalyzed by ATL31. Degradation of 14‐3‐3χin vivo was shown to be correlated with ATL31 activity, and to occur in a proteasome‐dependent manner. Furthermore, 14‐3‐3 protein accumulation was induced by a shift to high‐C/N stress conditions in Arabidopsis seedlings, and this regulated response required both ATL31 and ATL6. It was also shown that over‐expression of 14‐3‐3χ leads to hypersensitivity of Arabidopsis seedlings to C/N stress conditions. These results indicate that ATL31 targets and ubiquitinates 14‐3‐3 proteins for degradation via the ubiquitin–proteasome system during the response to cellular C/N status.
Population‐specific spectrum of the F11 mutations in Koreans: evidence for a founder effect
Authors: Kim J , Song J , Lyu CJ , Kim YR , Oh SH , Choi YC , Yoo JH , Choi JR , Kim H , Lee K‐A
Published: June 2011

Kim J, Song J, Lyu CJ, Kim YR, Oh SH, Choi YC, Yoo JH, Choi JR, Kim H, Lee K‐A. Population‐specific spectrum of the F11 mutations in Koreans: evidence for a founder effect.

The aim of this study was to investigate a mutation spectrum of F11 among Korean patients with factor XI (FXI) deficiency and to determine the haplotypes of mutations frequently found in Koreans. Thirteen unrelated patients from non‐consanguineous families with FXI deficiency were included in the study. In the mutation analysis, the most frequently found mutations were Q263X (four cases; 31%) and Q226X (three cases; 23%). The frequency of Q263X‐bearing haplotype was significantly different between normal and patient groups (p = 0.001), which is consistent with a founder effect of Q263X mutation. Testing for the presence of these two mutations should be the first genetic screening in Korean patients with FXI deficiency.
Experimental evaluation of fatigue crack initiation from corroded hemispherical notches in aerospace structural materials
Authors: GARCIA D. B. , FORMAN R. , SHINDO D.
Published: June 2011

A test program was developed and executed to evaluate the influence of corroded hemispherical notches on the fatigue crack initiation process in aluminium 7075‐T7351, 4340 steel and D6AC steel. Surface enhancements such as shot peening and laser shock peening were also incorporated as part of the test effort with the intent of assessing any improvements in fatigue performance. The aluminium specimens exhibited a relative insensitivity to the surface enhancements for crack initiation in pits ranging from 0.3 to 2.0 mm, and localized yielding was only a factor for smaller pits operated at an elevated load ratio. Residual stresses created by the surface enhancements as well as localized yielding improved the crack initiation behavior from the base of the pits for both the 4340 and D6AC steel specimens. This behaviour was evident at high and low load ratios. In particular, laser shock peening induced residual stresses produced a significant increase in the crack initiation stress even when localized yielding was not a factor.
Comparative microbial diversity analyses of modern marine thrombolitic mats by barcoded pyrosequencing
Authors: Mobberley Jennifer M. , Ortega Maya C. , Foster Jamie S.
Published: June 2011

Thrombolites are unlaminated carbonate structures that form as a result of the metabolic interactions of complex microbial mat communities. Thrombolites have a long geological history; however, little is known regarding the microbes associated with modern structures. In this study, we use a barcoded 16S rRNA gene‐pyrosequencing approach coupled with morphological analysis to assess the bacterial, cyanobacterial and archaeal diversity associated with actively forming thrombolites found in Highborne Cay, Bahamas. Analyses revealed four distinct microbial mat communities referred to as black, beige, pink and button mats on the surfaces of the thrombolites. At a coarse phylogenetic resolution, the domain bacterial sequence libraries from the four mats were similar, with Proteobacteria and Cyanobacteria being the most abundant. At the finer resolution of the rRNA gene sequences, significant differences in community structure were observed, with dramatically different cyanobacterial communities. Of the four mat types, the button mats contained the highest diversity of Cyanobacteria, and were dominated by two sequence clusters with high similarity to the genus Dichothrix, an organism associated with the deposition of carbonate. Archaeal diversity was low, but varied in all mat types, and the archaeal community was predominately composed of members of the Thaumarchaeota and Euryarchaeota. The morphological and genetic data support the hypothesis that the four mat types are distinctive thrombolitic mat communities.
Evaluating environmental policies under uncertainty through application of robust nonlinear programming
Authors: Doole Graeme J. , Pannell David J.
Published: June 2011

Environmental policy evaluation is characterised by a paucity of information. The novel technique of robust mathematical programming is introduced as a means to proactively account for this uncertainty in policy analysis. The procedure allows identification of expected bounds on the range of abatement costs associated with environmental policy. It also has the advantage of not limiting conclusions to realisations of specific point estimates or probability distributions. Empirical insights are provided in an application to a New Zealand inland lake threatened by nitrate pollution from dairy farming. Overall, this novel framework is demonstrated to have several key advantages, including explicit treatment of severe uncertainty, capacity to bound the range of expected abatement costs accruing to a given policy instrument, and the opportunity to identify robust plans that are immune to parametric variation.
The impact of locus of control and priming on the endowment effect
Authors: SUN YA‐CHUNG
Published: June 2011

Sun, Y.‐C. (2011). The impact of locus of control and priming on the endowment effect. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology 52, 420–426.

This paper demonstrates the effects of different priming conditions on the endowment effect with respect to seller and buyer roles for individuals with different loci of control. Individuals with an external locus of control process information less rationally, and they are more susceptible to external influences. In addition, the literature reports that when individuals are making a purchasing decision, they tend to perceive the value of the product as being higher because of its utility aspect because decision makers search for reasons and arguments to justify their choices (Shafir 1993; Tversky & Griffin, 1991). Therefore, this study investigates the effects of different priming conditions (utilitarian priming vs. hedonic priming) on the endowment effect according to each type of locus of control (internal vs. external). The results showed that the endowment effect was larger when externals were exposed to utilitarian priming as opposed to hedonic priming. Finally, the implications of these findings and suggestions for future research are discussed.
URBAN TOURISM AND REGIONAL TOURISTS: SHOPPING IN JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
Authors: ROGERSON CHRISTIAN M.
Published: June 2011

In the international literature on urban tourism most research concentrates on cities and tourists from the global North. The patterns of urban tourism development unfolding in emerging destinations of the global South exhibit differences to the well‐documented experiences of cities in North America or Western Europe. One factor is the influence of regional tourists. It is evident South Africa's tourism economy is dominated by African tourists. Likewise, the urban tourism economy of Johannesburg is distinguished by regional tourists. This paper examines the role of ‘Southern’ tourists in urban tourism and of policy responses by Johannesburg authorities to promote shopping tourism as an element of local economic development planning.
A holistic view of adenosine in the control of intestinal neuromuscular functions: the enteric ‘purinome’ concept
Authors: Antonioli Luca , Fornai Matteo , Colucci Rocchina , Tuccori Marco , Blandizzi Corrado
Published: June 2011

Adenosine is involved in the modulation of enteric neuromuscular functions, operating a fine tuning of smooth muscle contractility, peristaltic reflex and transit. In this issue of the BJP, Zizzo et al. report novel findings on the expression of adenosine receptors in mouse duodenum, extending our knowledge of their involvement in the control of spontaneous and neurogenic intestinal motility. In this study, particular attention was paid to the differential activation of adenosine receptors, as a result of their interplay with regulatory systems, modulating the availability of endogenous adenosine in a compartmentalised manner. This evidence will contribute to the holistic evaluation of the role played by adenosine in the regulation of intestinal motility, in accordance with the novel concept of the enteric ‘purinome’. This commentary discusses the role of the ‘purinome’ in the modulation of enteric neuromuscular activity, pointing out its involvement in the intestinal neuroplasticity associated with bowel dysmotility.

LINKED ARTICLE

This article is a commentary on Zizzo et al., pp. 1580–1589 of this issue. To view this paper visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2011.01498.x
Plumbagin inhibits tumour angiogenesis and tumour growth through the Ras signalling pathway following activation of the VEGF receptor‐2
Authors: Lai Li , Liu Junchen , Zhai Dong , Lin Qingxiang , He Lijun , Dong Yanmin , Zhang Jing , Lu Binbin , Chen Yihua , Yi Zhengfang , Liu Mingyao
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Angiogenesis‐based therapy is an effective anti‐tumour strategy and previous reports have shown some beneficial effects of a naturally occurring bioactive compound plumbagin (5‐hydroxy‐2‐methyl‐1, 4‐naphthoquinone). Here, we sought to determine the biological effects of plumbagin on signalling mechanisms during tumour angiogenesis.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The effects of plumbagin were evaluated in various in vitro assays which utilised human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) proliferation, migration and tube formation. Plumbagin was also evaluated in vivo using chicken embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and mouse corneal micropocket models., Human colon carcinoma and prostate cancer xenograft mouse models were used to evaluate the effects of plumbagin on angiogenesis. Immunofluorescence, GST pull‐down and Western blotting were employed to explore the underlying mechanisms of VEGF receptor (VEGFR)2‐mediated Ras signalling pathways.

KEY RESULTS

Plumbagin not only inhibited endothelial cell proliferation, migration and tube formation but also suppressed chicken chorioallantoic membrane neovascularzation and VEGF‐induced mouse corneal angiogenesis. Moreover, plumbagin suppressed tumour angiogenesis and tumour growth in human colon carcinoma and prostate cancer xenograft mouse models. At a molecular level, plumbagin blocked the Ras/Rac/cofilin and Ras/MEK signalling pathways mediated by VEGFR2 in HUVECs.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Plumbagin inhibited tumour angiogenesis and tumour growth by interference with the VEGFR2‐mediated Ras signalling pathway in endothelial cells. Our findings demonstrate a molecular basis for the effects of plumbagin and suggest that this compound might have therapeutic ant‐tumour effects.
TLS data denoising by range image processing
Authors: Smigiel Eddie , Alby Emmanuel , Grussenmeyer Pierre
Published: June 2011

The work described in this paper deals with denoising of fine detail in terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) data for close‐range applications. In contrast to other denoising methods described in the literature, the method described here puts the problem back into two dimensions. In the proposed method, data from each instrument station is processed by denoising the range image as a 2D function. Then, after denoising, the registration process is applied to obtain the final 3D point cloud. Two image denoising methods are tested. Wavelet analysis and a “non‐local means” (NL‐means) algorithm are applied to archaeological objects of sizes described as medium (around one cubic metre) and small (around one cubic decimetre). The rich relief of these objects proves the efficiency of the method on all kinds of surface shape. The experience shows that the NL‐means method achieves good results: the standard deviation of 2 mm in the raw data is decreased to 1 mm. Besides, NL‐means denoising requires very few parameters to be set (generally two) whilst wavelet denoising requires many. Hence, the extreme simplicity of the NL‐means method makes it much more efficient and suitable for use by non‐specialists. The method, which slightly modifies the standard production process and inherits the algorithmic complexity of the classical 2D image processing schemes, allows the range of applications of TLS to be extended to small and finely detailed objects.
Calibrating and validating multispectral 3D imaging systems at a permanent test site—case study with an Intergraph DMC
Authors: Honkavaara Eija , Nurminen Kimmo , Markelin Lauri , Suomalainen Juha , Ilves Risto
Published: June 2011

Novel photogrammetric sensors open up new possibilities for measuring the radiometric and geometric properties of the earth’s surface. To ensure optimal use of these complex, rapidly developing, diverse systems, it is becoming crucial to have a means of calibrating and validating complete imaging systems, and even production lines, in operational conditions. This paper presents a calibration and validation methodology based on a permanent test site (Sjökulla) and demonstrates its use in a calibration and validation campaign for a large‐format photogrammetric imaging system, the Intergraph DMC. The major objective of the campaign was to perform acceptance testing of the new camera system procured by the National Land Survey of Finland. The evaluation proved the high geometric and radiometric performance of the imaging system and demonstrated the potential of spectrodirectional photogrammetric 3D imaging. The usability aspects of test site calibration and validation from the point of view of a mapping organisation were also considered.
Low‐cost compact cameras: a medical application in CMT disease monitoring
Authors: Chong Albert K.
Published: June 2011

Recently, the price of low‐cost compact cameras has fallen further, while in many brands and models the image pixel count has improved. These factors have increased their potential for photogrammetric measurement. In a recent event, there was a need for practitioners to have access to a photogrammetric technique for an application relating to Charcot–Marie–Tooth (CMT) disease. In this investigation, a low‐cost multi‐camera imaging system was developed for use by health‐care practitioners. A case study of CMT disease of the upper limb was provided to demonstrate the suitability of the imaging system using these compact cameras. The objective of this paper is, therefore, to discuss the methodology and test results of an investigation into the suitability of these cameras for application in CMT disease. The imaging system was evaluated using four compact cameras, namely: Sony DSC‐S700; Fujifilm A170; Canon A495; and Canon A490. Twenty‐four calibrated slope distances were used for comparison of 3D measurement precisions with the different cameras used at two different object distances. The investigation showed that these compact cameras produced less precise measurements compared to the more expensive (above US$700) compact or SLR cameras. However, the current desired accuracy requirement for CMT disease applications is around 1 mm; hence these cameras are appropriate for the planned application.
Superior Mesenteric Artery Mycotic Aneurysm in Patients With Left Ventricular Assist Device Support and Intravenous Drug Abuse
Authors: Motomura Tadashi , Bruckner Brian , Leon‐Becerril Joel , Ayala‐Anayal Javier , de Rienzo‐Madero Beatriz , Bismuth Jean , Bunge Raquel , Irwin Suellen , Loebe Matthias
Published: June 2011

Mycotic aneurysm of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) is one of the complications associated with infective endocarditis. However, there are no previous case reports in the literature describing mycotic SMA aneurysm after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. We describe the case of a 31‐year‐old male diagnosed with congestive heart failure due to nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy who underwent LVAD implantation for bridge to heart transplantation. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient was maintained on anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy. There were no signs of pump failure or device‐related infections. However, 7 months post‐LVAD support, the patient complained of abdominal symptoms (nausea and vomiting) with low‐grade fever. Computed tomography identified an aneurysmal change of the SMA (2.2 × 1.8 cm). There was no evidence of thrombus or septic vegetation inside the heart. Aneurysm and segmental small bowel resection was performed. Pathological study revealed typical findings of mycotic aneurysm with significant infiltration of inflammatory cells. The patient, however, expired due to concurrent brain hemorrhage. Postmortem study indicated no sign of pump thrombus or septic emboli inside the pump or inflow/outflow conduit. This case report presents a rare mycotic aneurysm that developed in the SMA after chronic LVAD support.
New Anticoagulants for Prevention of Stroke in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: VILES‐GONZALEZ JUAN F. , FUSTER VALENTIN , HALPERIN JONATHAN L.
Published: June 2011

New Anticoagulants in Atrial Fibrillation.  Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac rhythm disorder and a major risk factor for ischemic stroke. Antithrombotic therapy using vitamin K antagonists (VKA) is currently prescribed for prevention of ischemic stroke in patients with AF. A narrow therapeutic range and frequent food and drug interactions underly the need for regular monitoring of anticoagulation intensity and impairs the utility and safety of VKA, stimulating a quest for alternative anticoagulant agents. Recently developed anticoagulants include the direct thrombin inhibitor, dabigatran, and the factor Xa inhibitors rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban, to name those in the most advanced stages of clinical development. This review focuses on advances in the development of novel antithrombotic agents to provide practical information to clinicians on the use of these new drugs in patients with AF. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 22, pp. 948‐955, August 2011)
The Prevalence of Mind–Body Dualism in Early China
Authors: Slingerland Edward , Chudek Maciej
Published: June 2011

We present the first large‐scale, quantitative examination of mind and body concepts in a set of historical sources by measuring the predictions of folk mind–body dualism against the surviving textual corpus of pre‐Qin (pre‐221 BCE) China. Our textual analysis found clear patterns in the historically evolving reference of the word xin (heart/heart–mind): It alone of the organs was regularly contrasted with the physical body, and during the Warring States period it became less associated with emotions and increasingly portrayed as the unique locus of “higher” cognitive abilities. We interpret this as a semantic shift toward a shared cognitive bias in response to a vast and rapid expansion of literacy. Our study helps test the proposed universality of folk dualism, adds a new quantitative approach to the methods used in the humanities, and opens up a new and valuable data source for cognitive scientists: the record of dead minds.
Therapeutic benefit of melatonin in experimental feline uveitis
Authors: Del Sole María José , Sande Pablo H. , Fernandez Diego C. , Sarmiento María Inés Keller , Aba Marcelo A. , Rosenstein Ruth E.
Published: June 2011

Abstract: Uveitis is a frequent ophthalmic disorder which constitutes one of the main causes of blindness in domestic cats. The aim of this report was to analyze the effect of melatonin on experimentally induced uveitis in cats. Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was injected intravitreally into one eye from intact cats, while the contralateral eye was injected with vehicle. Melatonin was orally administered every 24 hr to a group of ten cats, from 24 hr before until 45 days after intravitreal injections. Eyes were evaluated by means of clinical evaluation, intraocular pressure (IOP), blood–ocular barrier integrity (viameasurement of protein concentration and cell content in samples of aqueous humor [AH]), electroretinogram (ERG), and histological examination of the retinas. In LPS‐treated eyes, several clinical signs were observed until day 45 postinjection. The treatment with melatonin significantly decreased clinical signs and prevented the reduction in IOP induced by LPS. In LPS‐injected eyes, melatonin significantly preserved the blood–ocular barrier integrity, as shown by a decrease in the number of infiltrating cells and protein concentration in the AH. Mean amplitudes of scotopic ERG a‐ and b‐waves were significantly reduced in eyes injected with LPS, whereas melatonin significantly prevented the effect of LPS. At 45 days after injection, LPS induced alterations in photoreceptors and at the middle portion of the retina, whereas melatonin preserved the retinal structure. These results indicate that melatonin prevented clinical, biochemical, functional, and histological alterations induced by LPS injection. Thus, melatonin might constitute a useful tool for the treatment of feline uveitis.
Bidirectional Insulin Granule Turnover in the Submembrane Space During K+ Depolarization‐Induced Secretion
Authors: Hatlapatka Kathrin , Matz Magnus , Schumacher Kirstin , Baumann Knut , Rustenbeck Ingo
Published: June 2011

Like primary mouse islets, MIN6 pseudoislets responded to the depolarization by 40 mm KCl and the resulting increase in the free cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) with a massive increase in insulin secretion, whereas 15 mm KCl had little effect in spite of a clear increase in [Ca2+]i. Analysis of insulin‐enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)‐labeled granules in MIN6 cells by total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy showed that 40 mm KCl increased the number of short‐term resident granules (<1 second presence in the submembrane space), while the total granule number and the number of long‐term resident granules decreased. The rates of granule arrival at and departure from the submembrane space changed in parallel and were two orders of magnitude higher than the release rates, suggesting a back‐and‐forth movement of the granules as the primary determinant of the submembrane granule number. The effect of 15 mm KCl resembled that of 40 mm but did not achieve significance. Both 15 and 40 mm KCl evoked a [Ca2+]i increase, which was antagonized by 10 µm nifedipine. Nifedipine also antagonized the effect on secretion and on granule number and mobility. In conclusion, during KCl depolarization L‐type Ca2+ channels seem to regulate two processes, insulin granule turnover in the submembrane space and granule exocytosis.
Doing Better Research on Organizational Behaviour in Chinese Cultural Settings: Suggestions from the Notebooks of Two Fellow-Travellers
Authors: Bond Michael Harris , Muethel Miriam
Published: June 2011

In this article, we describe the development of cross-cultural research in organizational behaviour over the last few decades. Distinguishing four epochs of cross-cultural research, i.e., the Aristotelian, Linnean, Newtonian, and Einsteinian, we explain research questions, empirical approaches, and research designs that have guided contributions to each epoch. Based on this description, we outline a route for future research that takes Chinese indigenous constructs as points of departure to describe how individual outcomes of interest are embedded in their cultural environment. Finally, we provide concrete implications for future research in this area.
Charge-exchange X-ray emission of M82: Ka triplets of OVII, Ne IX and Mg XI
Authors: Liu Jiren , Mao Shude , Wang Q. Daniel
Published: June 2011

Starburst galaxies are primary feedback sources of mechanical energy and metals, which are generally measured from associated X-ray emission lines, assuming that they are from the thermal emission of the outflowing hot gas. Such line emission, however, can also arise from the charge-exchange X-ray emission (CXE) between highly ionized ions and neutral species. To understand the feedback of energy and metals, it is crucial to determine the origin of the X-ray emission lines and to distinguish the contributions from the CXE and the thermal emission. The origin of the lines can be diagnosed by the Kα triplets of He-like ions, because the CXE favours the intercombination and forbidden lines, while the thermal emission favours the resonance line. We analyse the triplets of O vii, Ne ix and Mg xi observed in the XMM—Newton reflection grating spectra of the starburst galaxy M82. The flux contribution of the CXE is 90, 50 and 30 per cent to the O vii, Ne ix and Mg xi triplets, respectively. Averaged over all the three triplets, the contribution of the CXE is ∼50 per cent of the total observed triplet flux. To correctly understand the hot outflow of starburst galaxies, it is necessary to include the CXE. Based on the measured CXE fluxes of the O vii, Ne ix and Mg xi triplets, we estimate the relative abundances of O, Ne and Mg of the outflow and find they are similar to the solar ratios.
Oil price changes and total productivity fluctuations in an oil‐exporting country
Authors: Kavand Hossein , Shahmoradi Asghar
Published: June 2011

This paper estimates a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model to investigate how oil price changes can affect the technological fluctuations in an oil‐exporting country like Iran. Focusing on Iran as an example of a resource‐intensive emerging economy, the paper uses the Blanchard–Kahn approach and the Kalman filter method to estimate unobservable technological deviations from its steady state. The estimated model simulates the stylised facts of the comovement, standard deviation and persistence of the cyclical components of macroeconomic variables. Based on these results, there is a positive correlation between oil price changes and the estimated technological fluctuations. In addition, this positive relationship is stronger in the period of accumulated positive oil price shocks, such as during the March 2003 to April 2007 period. The results show that oil price changes can be used as an indicator to predict the technological fluctuations in this economy.
DNA barcoding of Canada’s skates
Authors: COULSON M. W. , DENTI D. , VAN GUELPEN L. , MIRI C. , KENCHINGTON E. , BENTZEN P.
Published: June 2011

DNA‐based identifications have been employed across broad taxonomic ranges and provide an especially useful tool in cases where external identification may be problematic. This study explored the utility of DNA barcoding in resolving skate species found in Atlantic Canadian waters. Most species were clearly resolved, expanding the utility for such identification on a taxonomically problematic group. Notably, one genus (Amblyraja) contained three of four species whose distributions do not overlap that could not be readily identified with this method. On the other hand, two common and partially sympatric species (Little and Winter skates) were readily identifiable. There were several instances of inconsistency between the voucher identification and the DNA sequence data. In some cases, these were at the intrageneric level among species acknowledged to be prone to misidentification. However, several instances of intergeneric discrepancies were also identified, suggesting either evidence of past introgressive hybridization or misidentification of vouchered specimens across broader taxonomic ranges. Such occurrences highlight the importance of retaining vouchered specimens for subsequent re‐examination in the light of conflicting DNA evidence.
FACTORS EXPLAINING THE ACADEMIC SUCCESS OF SECOND‐YEAR ECONOMICS STUDENTS: AN EXPLORATORY ANALYSIS
Authors: HORN PETRONELLA , JANSEN ADA , YU DEREK
Published: June 2011

Factors influencing the academic success of first‐year economics students have been intensely researched. Lecture and tutorial attendance, age, gender, as well as matriculation results have been identified as significant in explaining academic performance. The academic success of senior students, however, has received less attention in South Africa. This paper presents the findings of an investigation into the academic performance of second‐year economics students at Stellenbosch University. Using a Heckman two‐step model, the study analyses whether the factors explaining first‐year academic success are applicable in the second year or if other factors are relevant. The results suggest that most matriculation subjects become statistically insignificant for second‐year students, whereas lecture and tutorial attendance remain important contributors to academic success. Furthermore, academic performance in the first year is an important determinant of success in the second year.
Experimental Investigation of Boiler Pressure Behavior in Closed-Open-Closed System
Authors: Gowreesh S. , Estrada J. , Ong C. K. , Xiao T. K.
Published: June 2011

A boiler or steam generator is a device used to create steam by applying heat energy to water. Compact boilers are specially designed to generate unlimited amount of steam in short time span for home appliance applications. The main objective of the present work is to analyze pressure behavior of a compact boiler when heat energy is applied under closed-open-closed system conditions (saturation pressure condition) and to study the characteristic behavior of water during the transition between liquid and vapor phases. This experiment investigates the pressure-temperature relationship at constant volume when the system reaches saturation point. This experiment also investigates the effect of suction pressure (saturation pressure at room temperature) on the system during the cold start condition and possible solutions to overcome the undesired final effect. Also, experiments are conducted on a small scale of the equipment and used as a base line values for the current experiments.
A New Aspheric Surfaces Polishing by Parallel Orthogonality Movement/Force Servomechanism
Authors: Zhan Jianming , Yu Sihai
Published: June 2011

According to the all-pervading theory, the best strategy for multiaxis compliant control system is the famous hybrid movement/force control. Until now, the typical way to get it inclines to integrate force control with movement control into one numerical control (NC) interpolator. The more axes being taken for the interpolator, the lower calculating and computerizing speed and the greater errors are. Furthermore, the errors of movement control, including the position errors and pose errors, would inevitably disturb the processing of force control for their coupling relationship. In this paper, the orthogonal movement/force servo strategy is brought forward based on the orthogonality relation of force control and movement control. Combining with the processing of aspheric surfaces polishing, the paper develops a new three-axis computer numerical control (CNC) compliant polishing method and system by the hybrid orthogonal movement/force servomechanism, in which the force controlling and movement controlling are taken in its orthogonal complement space, respectively. Experiments show that this new polishing system is of great robustness for the change of slope and curvature of the aspheric surfaces and it can polish aspheric surfaces to get ultrasmooth surfaces at nanoscale.
Global Tangent Visibility Analysis for Polyhedral Computer Aided Design Models
Authors: Yang Zhi , Wysk Richard A. , Joshi Sanjay
Published: June 2011

Visibility analysis is broadly used in milling and casting process planning and in coordinate measuring machine applications. However, standard visibility analysis (which involves determining visibility from a given viewpoint), cannot be applied directly to in-line cutting systems such as wire electrical discharge machines or hot wire foam cutters. The motivation of this paper is to accurately calculate the tangent visibility for objects represented by polygonal surfaces. In this paper we define a new type of visibility - tangent visibility. We develop an algorithm to calculate the global tangent visibility for in-line cutting systems, and several models are tested to verify its accuracy. Several polyhedral models are tested to verify the correctness of the tangent visibility algorithm; and the complexity of the algorithm is also discussed.
Terrestrial Ecosystem Responses to Species Gains and Losses
Authors: Wardle David A. , Bardgett Richard D. , Callaway Ragan M. , Van der Putten Wim H.
Published: June 2011

Ecosystems worldwide are losing some species and gaining others, resulting in an interchange of species that is having profound impacts on how these ecosystems function. However, research on the effects of species gains and losses has developed largely independently of one another. Recent conceptual advances regarding effects of species gain have arisen from studies that have unraveled the mechanistic basis of how invading species with novel traits alter biotic interactions and ecosystem processes. In contrast, studies on traits associated with species loss are fewer, and much remains unknown about how traits that predispose species to extinction affect ecological processes. Species gains and losses are both consequences and drivers of global change; thus, explicit integration of research on how both processes simultaneously affect ecosystem functioning is key to determining the response of the Earth system to current and future human activities.
The mTOR-Regulated Phosphoproteome Reveals a Mechanism of mTORC1-Mediated Inhibition of Growth Factor Signaling
Authors: Hsu Peggy P. , Kang Seong A. , Rameseder Jonathan , Zhang Yi , Ottina Kathleen A. , Lim Daniel , Peterson Timothy R. , Choi Yongmun , Gray Nathanael S. , Yaffe Michael B. , Marto Jarrod A. , Sabatini David M.
Published: June 2011

A search for substrates of a growth-promoting kinase revealed a regulatory feedback loop involved in tumor suppression.
No Need to Coax Monocytes
Authors: Randolph Gwendalyn J.
Published: June 2011

Although inflammation has been thought to rely on recruitment of macrophages from the blood, tissue macrophages can proliferate for an inflammatory response.
Computer Scientist Goes on Offensive to Defend Climate Scientists
Authors: Kintisch Eli
Published: June 2011

John Mashey is spending his retirement years compiling voluminous critiques of what he calls the "real conspiracy" to produce "climate antiscience."
‘It was a freak accident’: an analysis of the labelling of injury events in the US press
Authors: Smith Katherine C , Girasek Deborah C , Baker Susan P , Manganello Jennifer A , Bowman Stephen M , Samuels Alicia , Gielen Andrea C
Published: June 2011

Objectives

Given that the news media shape our understanding of health issues, a study was undertaken to examine the use by the US media of the expression ‘freak accident’ in relation to injury events. This analysis is intended to contribute to the ongoing consideration of lay conceptualisation of injuries as ‘accidents’.

Methods

LexisNexis Academic was used to search three purposively selected US news sources (Associated Press, New York Times and Philadelphia Inquirer) for the expression ‘freak accident’ over 5 years (2005–9). Textual analysis included both structured and open coding. Coding included measures for who used the expression within the story, the nature of the injury event and the injured person(s) being reported upon, incorporation of prevention information within the story and finally a phenomenological consideration of the uses and meanings of the expression within the story context.

Results

The search yielded a dataset of 250 human injury stories incorporating the term ‘freak accident’. Injuries sustained by professional athletes dominated coverage (61%). Fewer than 10% of stories provided a clear and explicit injury prevention message. Stories in which journalists employed the expression ‘freak accident’ were less likely to include prevention information than stories in which the expression was used by people quoted in the story.

Conclusions

Journalists who frame injury events as freak accidents may be an appropriate focus for advocacy efforts. Effective prevention messages should be developed and disseminated to accompany injury reporting in order to educate and protect the public.