bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding and becoming – the heart of the matter in nurse education
Authors: Sandvik Ann‐Helén , Eriksson Katie , Hilli Yvonne
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to deepen the understanding of student nurses' processes of understanding and becoming nurses. The study is phenomenological‐hermeneutic in design, comprising data from three focus group interviews in two Scandinavian countries. The process of student nurses' understanding and becoming a nurse emerged as a hermeneutical movement. A caring student–preceptor relationship and a growth‐promoting preception in a supportive and inclusive environment provide the frame within which the movement happens. The movement towards understanding and becoming is initiated as students, based on their level of knowledge, are given responsibility. In order to fulfil the responsibility imposed on them, students take their entire repertoire of knowledge into consideration. By tying these threads together, they found the basis for conscious action, and care is provided according to what the current situation requires. The experiences obtained are reflected on and integrated with earlier knowledge, which leads to enhanced understanding. Students form a new base to stand on. They show increased readiness for still more responsibility and action. This movement towards deeper understanding and becoming affects the students also ethically and deepens their ethical awareness. When one loop of understanding and becoming is closed the process continues by passing into a new loop. This movement could be described as a hermeneutical spiral consisting of interconnected loops taking the students further and deeper in their process of understanding and becoming a nurse. The student–preceptor relationship and the ethos permeating it are decisive for students' learning both epistemologically and ontologically. Responsibility is the catalyst in students' understanding and becoming both intellectually and ethically. Understanding and becoming are ongoing processes of appropriation, thus altering students both professionally and personally. Understanding and becoming can be perceived as the hearth of the matter in nurse education.
A Biophysical Analysis of Mitochondrial Movement: Differences Between Transport in Neuronal Cell Bodies Versus Processes
Authors: Narayanareddy Babu Reddy Janakaloti , Vartiainen Suvi , Hariri Neema , O'Dowd Diane K. , Gross Steven P.
Published: March 2014

There is an increasing interest in factors that can impede cargo transport by molecular motors inside the cell. Although potentially relevant (Yi JY, Ori‐McKenney KM, McKenney RJ, Vershinin M, Gross SP, Vallee RB. High‐resolution imaging reveals indirect coordination of opposite motors and a role for LIS1 in high‐load axonal transport. J Cell Biol 2011;195:193–201), the importance of cargo size and subcellular location has received relatively little attention. Here we address these questions taking advantage of the fact that mitochondria – a common cargo – in Drosophila neurons exhibit a wide distribution of sizes. In addition, the mitochondria can be genetically marked with green fluorescent protein (GFP) making it possible to visualize and compare their movement in the cell bodies and in the processes of living cells. Using total internal reflection microscopy coupled with particle tracking and analysis, we quantified the transport properties of GFP‐positive mitochondria as a function of their size and location. In neuronal cell bodies, we find little evidence for significant opposition to motion, consistent with a previous study on lipid droplets (Shubeita GT, Tran SL, Xu J, Vershinin M, Cermelli S, Cotton SL, Welte MA, Gross SP. Consequences of motor copy number on the intracellular transport of kinesin‐1‐driven lipid droplets. Cell 2008;135:1098–1107). However, in the processes, we observe an inverse relationship between the mitochondrial size and velocity and the run distances. This can be ameliorated via hypotonic treatment to increase process size, suggesting that motor‐mediated movement is impeded in this more‐confined environment. Interestingly, we also observe local mitochondrial accumulations in processes but not in cell bodies. Such accumulations do not completely block the transport but do increase the probability of mitochondria–mitochondria interactions. They are thus particularly interesting in relation to mitochondrial exchange of elements.
Coinfusion of dextrose‐containing fluids and red blood cells does not adversely affect in vitro red blood cell quality
Authors: Keir Amy K. , Hansen Adele L. , Callum Jeannie , Jankov Robert P. , Acker Jason P.
Published: March 2014

Background

Transfusion guidelines advise against coinfusing red blood cells (RBCs) with solutions other than 0.9% saline. We evaluated the impact of coinfusion with dextrose‐containing fluids (DW) on markers of RBC quality.

Study Design and Methods

A pool‐and‐split design was used to allow conditions to be tested on each pool within 2 hours of irradiation. Three pools at each storage age (5, 14, and 21 days) were created for each phase. In Phase 1, samples were infused through a neonatal transfusion apparatus alone or with treatment solutions: D5W, D10W, D5W/0.2% saline, and 0.9% saline. In Phase 2, samples were incubated alone or in a 1:1 ratio with treatment solutions and tested after 5, 30, and 180 minutes. Hemolysis, supernatant potassium, RBC indices, morphology, and deformability were measured on all samples.

Results

In Phase 1, RBCs transfused alone through the apparatus had higher (p < 0.01) hematocrit, total hemoglobin, and supernatant potassium compared to all other groups. No statistical differences were identified between groups for other measured variables. In Phase 2, mean corpuscular volume of all samples containing DW increased with incubation length and were higher (p < 0.01) than RBCs incubated alone or with 0.9% saline after 30 and 180 minutes. RBCs incubated with D5W and D5W/0.2% saline had greater (p < 0.05) hemolysis than RBCs alone after 180 minutes.

Conclusion

In vitro characteristics of RBCs coinfused with 0.9% saline or D10W were not adversely impacted. When developing clinical studies in neonates, we recommend use of D10W and a transfusion apparatus that minimizes the contact volume of the coinfusate with the RBC.
AABB validation study of the CDC's National Healthcare Safety Network Hemovigilance Module adverse events definitions protocol
Authors: AuBuchon James P. , Fung Mark , Whitaker Barbee , Malasky Jacquelyn
Published: March 2014

Background

The utility of a hemovigilance system depends on appropriate, reproducible application of system definitions. This is even more important when submissions are not reviewed by an adjudicating body. We sought to determine how participants would code adverse reactions at institutions that had or had not received training on the application of definitions used in the CDC's National Healthcare Safety Network Hemovigilance Module (HVM).

Study Design and Methods

Facilities that were (11) or were not (11) submitting adverse reaction data to the HVM reviewed 36 hypothetical cases containing elements of 37 case definitions from 12 different diagnostic groups. Respondents were required to determine the type of adverse event, if any, and assign a case definition (diagnostic probability), severity, and imputability using the January 2013 HVM Surveillance Protocol definitions. Those submitting HVM data had access to an instructional slide set prepared by CDC using similar hypothetical cases. Concordance with expert analysis was determined for the two groups of respondents.

Results

The frequencies of agreement with the expert assessment were not different according to prior training exposure in any of the diagnostic groups, and results were totaled across both groups. Response accuracy varied by type of categorization (adverse event type, 72.1%; match with case definition, 76.5%; severity, 69.6%; imputablity, 64.4%) and by type of adverse event.

Conclusion

Despite delineated definitions, considerable variability in responses was seen, and this was not reduced by the available training. This degree of inconsistency in application of the surveillance definitions could degrade the utility of comparative reports.
A longitudinal study of Babesia microti infection in seropositive blood donors
Authors: Leiby David A. , Johnson Stephanie T. , Won Kimberly Y. , Nace Eva K. , Slemenda Susan B. , Pieniazek Norman J. , Cable Ritchard G. , Herwaldt Barbara L.
Published: March 2014

Background

Babesia infection is caused by intraerythrocytic tick‐borne parasites. Cases of transfusion‐transmitted babesiosis have been increasingly recognized. To date, no Babesia test has been licensed for screening US blood donors. We conducted a longitudinal study to assess the course and markers of Babesia infection among seropositive donors identified in a seroprevalence study.

Study Design and Methods

Eligible donors had B. microti indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) titers of 64 or greater. Enrollees were monitored up to 3 years, by IFA and three methods for evidence of parasitemia: B. microti nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis (at two laboratories), hamster inoculation, and blood‐smear examination.

Results

Among 115 eligible donors, 84 (73%) enrolled. Eighteen enrollees (21%) had evidence of parasitemia for 30 total specimens (17% of 181), which were collected in 9 different months and tested positive by various approaches: PCR (25 specimens/16 persons), hamster inoculation (13 specimens/8 persons), and blood smear (one specimen positive by all three approaches). Overall, 14 persons had one or more specimen with positive PCR results at both laboratories (12 persons) and/or had parasitologically confirmed infection (eight persons). Three of nine persons who had more than one specimen with evidence of parasitemia had nonconsecutive positives. Several enrollees likely had been infected at least 1 year when their last positive specimen was collected. The final three specimens for seven persons tested negative by all study methods, including IFA.

Conclusion

Seropositive blood donors can have protracted low‐level parasitemia that is variably and intermittently detected by parasitologic and molecular methods. Donor‐screening algorithms should include serologic testing and not solely rely on molecular testing.
The real superdonors
Authors: Lefrère Jean‐Jacques , Hermine Olivier
Published: March 2014

Before frequency and age limits were established for blood donations, certain individuals were exceptional in the frequency and the number of blood donations over their life. We call them “superdonors” and describe their common characteristics through some examples. The physiologic characteristics allowing these individuals to give blood several hundred times without developing an anemia are unknown.
Expression of tissue factor in canine mammary tumours and correlation with grade, stage and markers of haemostasis and inflammation
Authors: Andreasen E. B. , Nielsen O. L. , Tranholm M. , Knudsen T. , Kristensen A. T.
Published: March 2014

Tissue factor (TF) expression in human cancers has been associated with a procoagulant state and facilitation of metastasis. This study was conducted in order to evaluate if TF was expressed in canine mammary tumours. Forty epithelial mammary tumours from 28 dogs were included. TF expression of the tumours was evaluated by immunohistochemistry using a polyclonal antibody against recombinant canine TF. In addition, thromboelastography, haemostatic and inflammatory parameters were evaluated in the patients. TF was recognized in 44% of benign and 58% of malignant tumours. TF localized to the cytoplasmic membrane of neoplastic luminal epithelial cells and/or diffusely in the cytoplasm. No association was found between TF expression and stage or grade of disease. A significant association between TF expression and antithrombin and plasminogen was found, and extensive TF expression was seen in a lymph node metastasis classified as anaplastic mammary carcinoma from a dog with concomitant disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
Draft Genome Sequence of an Invasive Multidrug-Resistant Strain, Pseudomonas aeruginosa BK1, Isolated from a Keratitis Patient
Authors: Jeganathan Lakshmi Priya , Prakash Logambiga , Sivakumar Neelamegam , Antony Aju , Alqarawi Sami , Prajna Lalitha , Devarajan Bharanidharan , Mohankumar Vidyarani
Published: March 2014

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
infections are difficult to treat due to the presence of a multitude of virulence factors and antibiotic resistance. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
P. aeruginosa
BK1, an invasive and multidrug-resistant strain, isolated from a bacterial keratitis patient in southern India.
Genome Sequence of the Quorum-Quenching Rhodococcus erythropolis Strain R138
Authors: Kwasiborski Anthony , Mondy Samuel , Beury-Cirou Amélie , Faure Denis
Published: March 2014

Rhodococcus erythropolis
strain R138 was isolated from the rhizosphere of
Solanum tuberosum
and selected for its capacity to degrade
N
-acyl-homoserine lactones, quorum-sensing signals used as communication molecules by the potato pathogens
Pectobacterium
and
Dickeya
. Here, we report the genome sequence of
Rhodococcus erythropolis
strain R138.
Double trouble: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy coexistent with malignant anomalous right coronary artery
Authors: Liddy Stephen , Roy Andrew K , McCreery Charles
Published: March 2014

A 40-year-old man with no cardiac history was admitted for evaluation of atypical chest pain of 1-month duration. On investigation he was found to have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and an anomalous right coronary artery arising from the left sinus of Valsalva. This is of great clinical significance as both these conditions are independently associated with sudden cardiac death. Following extensive risk assessment and detailed discussion with the patient, he was discharged on medical therapy, comprising bisoprolol, aspirin and rosuvastatin. He has remained free of symptoms for 1 year. This report describes the rare coexistence of these two distinct clinical entities, examines the various treatment options and provides support for medical management as an acceptable treatment strategy in appropriately selected cases.
Sequoyitol ameliorates diabetic nephropathy in diabetic rats induced with a high-fat diet and a low dose of streptozotocin
Authors: Li Xian-Wei , Liu Yan , Hao Wei , Yang Jie-Ren
Published: March 2014

Sequoyitol decreases blood glucose, improves glucose intolerance, and enhances insulin signaling in ob/ob mice. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sequoyitol on diabetic nephropathy in rats with type 2 diabetes mellitus and the mechanism of action. Diabetic rats, induced with a high-fat diet and a low dose of streptozotocin, and were administered sequoyitol (12.5, 25.0, and 50.0 mg·(kg body mass)−1·d−1) for 6 weeks. The levels of fasting blood glucose (FBG), serum insulin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and serum creatinine (SCr) were measured. The expression levels of p22phox, p47phox, NF-κB, and TGF-β1were measured using immunohistochemisty, real-time PCR, and (or) Western blot. The total antioxidative capacity (T-AOC), as well as the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were also determined. The results showed that sequoyitol significantly decreased FBG, BUN, and SCr levels, and increased the insulin levels in diabetic rats. The level of T-AOC was significantly increased, while ROS and MDA levels and the expression of p22phox, p47phox, NF-κB, and TGF-β1were decreased with sequoyitol treatment both in vivo and in vitro. These results suggested that sequoyitol ameliorates the progression of diabetic nephropathy in rats, as induced by a high-fat diet and a low dose of streptozotocin, through its glucose-lowering effects, antioxidant activity, and regulation of TGF-β1expression.
The axiom of multiple choice and models for constructive set theory
Authors: van den Berg Benno , Moerdijk Ieke
Published: March 2014

We propose an extension of Aczel's constructive set theory CZF by an axiom for inductive types and a choice principle, and show that this extension has the following properties: it is interpretable in Martin-Löf's type theory (hence acceptable from a constructive and generalized-predicative standpoint). In addition, it is strong enough to prove the Set Compactness theorem and the results in formal topology which make use of this theorem. Moreover, it is stable under the standard constructions from algebraic set theory, namely exact completion, realizability models, forcing as well as more general sheaf extensions. As a result, methods from our earlier work can be applied to show that this extension satisfies various derived rules, such as a derived compactness rule for Cantor space and a derived continuity rule for Baire space. Finally, we show that this extension is robust in the sense that it is also reflected by the model constructions from algebraic set theory just mentioned.
The Yangian symmetry for three-spin-1/2 and four-spin-1/2 Heisenberg XXX models
Authors: Liu Ying , Xue Kang , Wang Gangcheng , Liu Bo , Sun Chunfang
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we investigate Yangian symmetry for the three-spin-1/2 and four-spin-1/2 Heisenberg XXX models. Applying Yangian Y(sl(2)) theory to three-spin-1/2 and four-spin-1/2 systems, we construct Yangian Y(sl(2)) realizations for these systems. We show that these Yangian realizations can be used to describe three-spin-1/2 and four-spin-1/2 Heisenberg XXX models. The Yangian operators as shift operators are also studied in this paper.
EFFECT OF THE CHROMOPHORES STRUCTURES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SOLID-STATE DYE SENSITIZED SOLAR CELLS
Authors: TIAN HAINING , SOTO ANDREA , XU BO , SUN LICHENG , HAGFELDT ANDERS , FABREGAT-SANTIAGO FRANCISCO , MORA-SERO IVAN , KANG YONG SOO , BISQUERT JUAN , BAREA EVA M.
Published: March 2014

The effect of metal-free chromophores on dye-sensitized solar cell performance is investigated. Solid state dye-sensitized solar cells (ssDSCs) using different molecular sensitizers based on triphenylamine (TPA) with thiophene linkers and different alkyl chain in the donor unit have been characterized using impedance spectroscopy (IS). We show that different molecular structures play a fundamental role on solar cell performance, by the effect produced on TiO 2 conduction band position and in the recombination rate. Dye structure and its electronic properties are the main factors that control the recombination, the capacitance and the efficiency of the cells. A clear trend between the performance of the cell and the optimization level of the blocking effect of the dye structure has been identified in the solid state solar cells with Spiro-OMeTAD hole conductor.
Exercise training protects against an acute inflammatory insult in mouse epididymal adipose tissue
Authors: Castellani Laura , Root-Mccaig Jared , Frendo-Cumbo Scott , Beaudoin Marie-Soleil , Wright David C.
Published: March 2014

Exercise training reduces systemic and adipose tissue inflammation. However, these beneficial effects seem to be largely tied to reductions in adipose tissue mass. The purpose of the present study was to determine if exercise training confers a protective effect against an acute inflammatory challenge. We hypothesized that the induction of inflammatory markers, such as interleukin 6 (IL-6), suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), and TNF-α by the beta-3 adrenergic agonist CL 316,243 would be reduced in adipose tissue from trained mice and this would be associated with reductions in transient receptor potential cation channel 4 (TRPV4), a protein recently shown to regulate the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Exercise training (4 wk of treadmill running, 1 h/day, 5 days/wk) increased markers of skeletal muscle mitochondrial content and the induction of PPAR-gamma coactivator 1 alpha in epididymal adipose tissue. The mRNA expression of IL-6, SOCS3, and TNFα were not different in subcutaneous and epididymal adipose tissue from sedentary and trained mice; however, the CL 316,243-mediated induction of these genes was attenuated ∼50% in epididymal adipose tissue from trained mice as were increases in plasma IL-6. The effects of training were not explained by reductions in lipolytic responsiveness, but were associated with decreases in TRPV4 protein content. These results highlight a previously unappreciated anti-inflammatory effect of exercise training on adipose tissue immunometabolism and underscores the value of assessing adipose tissue inflammation in the presence of an inflammatory insult.
uso do tabaco entre os universitários de enfermagem da Universidade do estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ)
Authors: Matsumoto Karen dos Santos , Craveiro Mariana Freire , Rocha Patrícia Rodrigues da , Lopes Gertrudes Teixeira
Published: March 2014

O estudo refere-se ao hábito de fumar entre alunos de Graduação em Enfermagem da Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro e tem como objetivos identificar os fatores que estimulam o uso de tabaco e verificar a sua incidência entre esses alunos. Trata-se de estudo descritivo quantitativo que investigou 213 estudantes do 1º ao 9º período, de abril a dezembro de 2004, mediante aplicação de um questionário. Os resultados demonstraram que 42% dos alunos experimentou o fumo alguma vez na vida, porém, a maioria desses (73%) não continuou o uso. Dos que continuaram (26%), 65% iniciou entre 16 e 20 anos de idade, e 53% desenvolveu o hábito por curiosidade e desejo de fumar.
Padrão de consumo de bebidas alcoólicas entre graduandas de enfermagem de uma Universidade Estadual Paulista
Authors: Balan Thaís Grecchi , Campos Claudinei José Gomes
Published: March 2014

Este trabalho verificou o padrão de consumo de bebidas alcoólicas entre jovens universitárias. Trata-se de estudo descritivo-quantitativo, realizado com amostra de 105 estudantes do sexo feminino, do 1º ao 4º ano de um curso de graduação em enfermagem, de uma universidade estadual paulista, utilizando-se como instrumento um questionário e o teste AUDIT. De acordo com a quantidade ingerida, foram identificados bebedoras com consumo moderado e alto de bebidas alcoólicas, indicando potencial risco para a saúde e de se tornarem, no futuro, freqüentes consumidoras de bebidas alcoólicas e, desse modo, terem também suas carreiras profissionais prejudicadas.
Cambios en las representaciones sociales sobre las drogas y sus usuarios en la sociedad Española
Authors: Jiménez María de la Villa Moral
Published: March 2014

En este artículo se describen las representaciones sociales sobre la experimentación juvenil con sustancias psicoactivas y los cambios en las tendencias dominantes acerca de los riesgos asociados al consumo de alcohol en la cultura mediterránea u otras drogas como los derivados canábicos o los psicoestimulantes. Se propone como estrategia preventiva y de intervención psicosocial y sociocomunitaria incidir en repensar las representaciones sociales y el discurso dominante sobre las drogas para tratar de redimensionar las consecuencias de la experimentación con sustancias psicoactivas, aumentar las percepciones de riesgo y promover cambios actitudinales que redunden positivamente en una tendencia salubrista a nivel global.
Grupo de pais de jovens homossexuais
Authors: Santos Manoel Antônio dos , Júnior José Urbano Brochado , Moscheta Murilo dos Santos
Published: March 2014

O objetivo desse trabalho é relatar uma experiência de planejamento e implementação de um grupo de apoio para pais de jovens homossexuais. Nos primeiros meses a adesão ao grupo restringiu-se às mães, que relataram haver maior dificuldade por parte de seus maridos em lidar com a homossexualidade do filho. As participantes descrevem o impacto dos encontros na redução do isolamento em que se encontravam anteriormente e na possibilidade de dialogarem sobre questões comuns de seu cotidiano com outras mães que vivem situações semelhantes, em suas famílias. O grupo tem se configurado como contexto fértil para intercambiar informações e experiências de vida.
Differences in Vascular Nitric Oxide and Endothelium-Derived Hyperpolarizing Factor Bioavailability in Blacks and Whites
Authors: Ozkor Muhiddin A. , Rahman Ayaz M. , Murrow Jonathan R. , Kavtaradze Nino , Lin Ji , Manatunga Amita , Hayek Salim , Quyyumi Arshed A.
Published: March 2014

Objective—

Abnormalities in nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability have been reported in blacks. Whether there are differences in endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF) in addition to NO between blacks and whites and how these affect physiological vasodilation remain unknown. We hypothesized that the bioavailability of vascular NO and EDHF, at rest and with pharmacological and physiological vasodilation, varies between whites and blacks.

Approach and Results—

In 74 white and 86 black subjects without known cardiovascular disease risk factors, forearm blood flow was measured using plethysmography at rest and during inhibition of NO with N
G
-monomethyl-
l
-arginine and of K
+
Ca
channels (EDHF) with tetraethylammonium. The reduction in resting forearm blood flow was greater with N
G
-monomethyl-
l
-arginine (
P
=0.019) and similar with tetraethylammonium in whites compared with blacks. Vasodilation with bradykinin, acetylcholine, and sodium nitroprusside was lower in blacks compared with whites (all
P
<0.0001). Inhibition with N
G
-monomethyl-
l
-arginine was greater in whites compared with blacks with bradykinin, acetylcholine, and exercise. Inhibition with tetraethylammonium was lower in blacks with bradykinin, but greater during exercise and with acetylcholine.

Conclusions—

The contribution to both resting and stimulus-mediated vasodilator tone of NO is greater in whites compared with blacks. EDHF partly compensates for the reduced NO release in exercise and acetylcholine-mediated vasodilation in blacks. Preserved EDHF but reduced NO bioavailability and sensitivity characterizes the vasculature in healthy blacks.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://clinicaltrials.gov/
. Unique identifier: NCT00166166.
Impaired Glucose Regulation Predicted 1-Year Mortality of Chinese Patients With Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Jia Qian , Liu Gaifen , Zheng Huaguang , Zhao Xingquan , Wang Chunxue , Wang Yilong , Liu Liping , Wang Yongjun
Published: March 2014

Background and Purpose—

It remains uncertain if impaired glucose regulation (IGR) as a predictor for stroke outcomes. This study aimed at observing the effect of IGR on the 1-year outcomes in Chinese patients with ischemic stroke.

Methods—

Patients with acute ischemic stroke were recruited consecutively in multihospitals across China. Oral glucose tolerance test was performed to identify IGR. Cox proportion hazard model was performed to investigate the effect of IGR on 1-year mortality or stroke recurrence in patients with ischemic stroke.

Results—

The study recruited 2639 patients with ischemic stroke. IGR was shown as an independent risk factor for the mortality of patients with ischemic stroke (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], 3.088 [1.386–6.884];
P
=0.006). However, IGR showed no significant effects on the dependency or stroke recurrence of patients (
P
=0.540 and 0.618, respectively).

Conclusions—

IGR was an independent predictor for the mortality of patients with ischemic stroke. IGR should be highlighted and intervened actively in the patients with ischemic stroke.
On the Universal Generation Problem for Unification Grammars
Authors: Wedekind Jürgen
Published: March 2014

The universal generation problem for unification grammars is the problem of determining whether a given grammar derives any terminal string with a given feature structure. It is known that the problem is decidable for LFG and PATR grammars if only acyclic feature structures are taken into consideration. In this brief note, we show that the problem is undecidable for cyclic structures. This holds even for grammars that are off-line parsable.
First record of the leafhopper genus Soractellus Evans, 1966 (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) from China, with description of a new species
Authors: XING JI-CHUN , LI ZI-ZHONG
Published: March 2014

The genus Soractellus Evans, 1966 is reported for the first time based on a new species, Soractellus jianfengensis sp. nov., here described and illustrated from China. A key is given to distinguish all species of the genus. The type specimens of the new species are deposited in the Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China (GUGC).
A new species of Duvalius from world’s deepest cave (Coleoptera: Carabidae)
Authors: REBOLEIRA ANA SOFIA P. S. , ORTUÑO VICENTE M.
Published: March 2014

The new hypogean ground beetle, Duvalius abyssimus n. sp., from Krubera-Voronja, world’s deepest cave (Arabika massif, Western Caucasus) is described and illustrated. Diagnostic morphological characters of the imago, male and female genitalia are provided. Its relations with other Duvalius Delarouzée species from the Western Caucasus geographic area are discussed. An updated overview of the biocoenosis of its peculiar habitat is made.
The advertisement call of Dendropsophus pseudomeridianus
(Cruz, Caramaschi & Dias) (Anura: Hylidae)
Authors: CARAM JOANA , DE LUNA-DIAS CYRO , HEPP FABIO , DE CARVALHO-E-SILVA SERGIO POTSCH
Published: March 2014

The advertisement call plays a fundamental role in anuran reproduction (Duellman & Trueb 1994; Wells 2007). Some species that may be confused morphologically with each other can be distinguished by vocalization (Pombal et al. 1995). It is the case of Dendropsophus pseudomeridianus, which is phenotypically very similar to D. berthalutzae (Bokermann), D. branneri (Cochran), D. decipiens (Lutz), D. haddadi (Pombal & Bastos), D. meridianus (Lutz) and D. oliveirai (Bokermann). Herein, we present the first quantitative description of the advertisement call of D. pseudomeridianus and compare it with the advertisement call of morphologically similar species of the D. microcephalus group.
Injury in Minipig Parotid Glands following Fractionated Exposure to 30 Gy of Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Wang Ren‐Sheng , Zhang Ting‐Ting , Xu Zhuo‐Hua , Hu Kai , Shi Yu , Long Sha , Yue Hai‐Ying
Published: March 2014

Objective

To explore the effects of 30 Gy of 60Co γ‐rays on apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in minipig parotid cells as a possible mechanism for radiation‐induced parotid injury.

Study Design

Experimental study.

Setting

Department of Radiotherapy, First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China.

Subjects and Methods

Forty male minipigs were divided into control and irradiated groups. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate nick‐end labeling was used for detecting apoptosis in the parotid cells, immunohistochemistry, and western blots were used to test expression of the B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2) and BCL2‐associated X (Bax) proteins, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze the expression of Bcl‐2, Bax, p53, and caspase‐3 messenger ribonucleic acid. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect ROS levels in the parotid tissue.

Results

At each time point, the apoptotic rates in the irradiated group were higher than those in the control group. Furthermore, the ROS and expression levels of Bax, p53, and caspase‐3 messenger ribonucleic acid and proteins gradually increased and were higher than those in the control group. Conversely, the expression of Bcl‐2 was decreased in the irradiated group (P <. 05).

Conclusions

Ionizing radiation induces the production of ROS and promotes changes in the expression of several apoptotic proteins, which increases apoptosis and likely contributes to the mechanism of radiation‐induced parotid injury.
Multiferroic oxide composites: Synthesis, characterisation and applications
Authors: Sreenivasulu G. , Qu H. , Srinivasan G.
Published: March 2014

The nature of mechanical strain mediated electromagnetic coupling in multiferroic composites has been studied extensively in recent years. This review is on composites with ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic oxides and ferroelectrics. Systems studied so far include samples with spinel ferrites, hexagonal ferrites or lanthanum manganites for the ferromagnetic phase and barium titanate, lead zirconate titanate (PZT), lead magnesium niobate–lead titanate (PMN-PT) or lead zinc niobate–lead titanate (PZN-PT) for the ferroelectric phase. Bilayer and multilayer heterostructures, bulk composites, core shell nanoparticles and core shell nanotubes and nanowires were investigated for their response to magnetic fields, termed direct magnetoelectric effect (DME). Several systems show a giant low frequency DME and resonance enhancement at bending and electromechanical resonance. The response of the composites to an electric field, called converse ME effect, is found to be strong in several ferrite–ferroelectric composites. The potential for use of the composites for pico-Tesla magnetic sensors and high frequency electric field tunable ferrite signal processing devices are also addressed in this review.
Disruption of mutated BRAF signaling modulates thyroid cancer phenotype
Authors: Hanly Elyse K , Rajoria Shilpi , Darzynkiewicz Zbigniew , Zhao Hong , Suriano Robert , Tuli Neha , George Andrea L , Bednarczyk Robert , Shin Edward J , Geliebter Jan , Tiwari Raj K
Published: March 2014

Background

Thyroid cancer is the most common endocrine-related cancer in the United States and its incidence is rising rapidly. Since among various genetic lesions identified in thyroid cancer, the BRAFV600E mutation is found in 50% of papillary thyroid cancers and 25% of anaplastic thyroid cancers, this mutation provides an opportunity for targeted drug therapy. Our laboratory evaluated cellular phenotypic effects in response to treatment with PLX4032, a BRAFV600E-specific inhibitor, in normal BRAF-wild-type thyroid cells and in BRAFV600E-positive papillary thyroid cancer cells.

Methods

Normal BRAF-wild-type thyroid cells and BRAFV600E-mutated papillary thyroid cancer cells were subjected to proliferation assays and analyzed for cell death by immunofluorescence. Cell cycle status was determined using an EdU uptake assay followed by laser scanning cytometry. In addition, expression of proteins within the MAPK signal transduction pathway was analyzed by Western blot.

Results

PLX4032 has potent anti-proliferative effects selectively in BRAF-mutated thyroid cancer cells. These effects appear to be mediated by the drug’s activity of inhibiting phosphorylation of signaling molecules downstream of BRAF within the pro-survival MAPK pathway. Interestingly, PLX4032 promotes the phosphorylation of these signaling molecules in BRAF-wild-type thyroid cells.

Conclusions

These findings support further evaluation of combinational therapy that includes BRAFV600E inhibitors in thyroid cancer patients harboring the BRAFV600E mutation.
Random noise attenuation byf-xempirical-mode decomposition predictive filtering
Authors: Chen Yangkang , Ma Jitao
Published: March 2014

Random noise attenuation always played an important role in seismic data processing. One of the most widely used methods for suppressing random noise was [Formula: see text] predictive filtering. When the subsurface structure becomes complex, this method suffered from higher prediction errors owing to the large number of different dip components that need to be predicted. We developed a novel denoising method termed [Formula: see text] empirical-mode decomposition (EMD) predictive filtering. This new scheme solved the problem that makes [Formula: see text] EMD ineffective with complex seismic data. Also, by making the prediction more precise, the new scheme removed the limitation of conventional [Formula: see text] predictive filtering when dealing with multidip seismic profiles. In this new method, we first applied EMD to each frequency slice in the [Formula: see text] domain and obtained several intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). Then, an autoregressive model was applied to the sum of the first few IMFs, which contained the high-dip-angle components, to predict the useful steeper events. Finally, the predicted events were added to the sum of the remaining IMFs. This process improved the prediction precision by using an EMD-based dip filter to reduce the dip components before [Formula: see text] predictive filtering. Synthetic and real data sets demonstrated the performance of our proposed method in preserving more useful energy.
Seismic data restoration via data-driven tight frame
Authors: Liang Jingwei , Ma Jianwei , Zhang Xiaoqun
Published: March 2014

Restoration/interpolation of missing traces plays a crucial role in the seismic data processing pipeline. Efficient restoration methods have been proposed based on sparse signal representation in a transform domain such as Fourier, wavelet, curvelet, and shearlet transforms. Most existing methods are based on transforms with a fixed basis. We considered an adaptive sparse transform for restoration of data with complex structures. In particular, we evaluated a data-driven tight-frame-based sparse regularization method for seismic data restoration. The main idea of the data-driven tight frame (TF) is to adaptively learn a set of framelet filters from the currently interpolated data, under which the data can be more sparsely represented; hence, the sparsity-promoting [Formula: see text]-norm (SPL1) minimization methods can produce better restoration results by using the learned filters. A split inexact Uzawa algorithm, which can be viewed as a generalization of the alternating direction of multiplier method (ADMM), was applied to solve the presented SPL1 model. Numerical tests were performed on synthetic and real seismic data for restoration of randomly missing traces over a regular data grid. Our experiments showed that our proposed method obtains the state-of-the-art restoration results in comparison with the traditional Fourier-based projection onto convex sets, the tight-frame-based method, and the recent shearlet regularization ADMM method.
Field examples of the joint petrophysical inversion of resistivity and nuclear measurements acquired in high-angle and horizontal wells
Authors: Ijasan Olabode , Torres-Verdín Carlos , Preeg William E. , Rasmus John , Stockhausen Edward
Published: March 2014

A recently introduced interpretation workflow has confirmed that inversion-based interpretation is more reliable than conventional well-log analysis in high-angle (HA) and horizontal (HZ) wells because the former accounts for well trajectory and shoulder-bed effects on well logs. Synthetic examples show that the inversion workflow could improve the estimation of hydrocarbon volumes by 15% and 10% in HA and HZ intervals, respectively. Using field examples of thinly interbedded calcite-cemented siltstone formations, we document results of the joint petrophysical inversion of logging-while-drilling multisector nuclear (neutron porosity, density, natural gamma ray, photoelectric factor) and multiarray propagation resistivity measurement for improved formation evaluation in HA/HZ wells. Under the assumption of multilayer formation petrophysical models, the inversion approach estimates formation properties by numerically reproducing the available measurements. Subsequently, inversion-derived hydrocarbon pore volume is calculated for assessment of reservoir pay. Application of the joint inversion-based interpretation in challenging field examples highlights petrophysical characteristics such as capillary trends or water saturation variations in a hydrocarbon column influenced by reservoir quality and formation electrical anisotropy which otherwise remain inconspicuous with conventional and quick-look interpretation of well-logs.
Moving without a purpose: an experimental study of swarm guidance in the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera Linnaeus)
Authors: Makinson James C. , Beekman Madeleine
Published: March 2014

During reproductive swarming honey bee scouts perform two very important functions. Firstly, they find new nesting locations and return to the swarm cluster to communicate their discoveries. Secondly, once the swarm is ready to depart informed scout bees act as guides, leading the swarm to its final destination. We have previously hypothesised that the two processes, selecting a new nest site and swarm guidance, are tightly linked in honey bees. When swarms can be laissez faire about where they nest, reaching directional consensus prior to lift off seems unnecessary. If, on the other hand, it is essential that the swarm reaches a precise location, either directional consensus must be near unanimous prior to swarm departure or only a select subgroup of the scouts attempts to guide the swarm. Here we test experimentally if directional consensus is necessary for the successful guidance of swarms of the Western honey bee Apis mellifera by forcing swarms to the air prior to the completion of the decision-making process. Our results show that swarms were unable to guide themselves prior to the swarm reaching the pre-flight buzzing phase of the decision-making process, even when directional consensus was high. We therefore conclude that most likely not all scouts involved in the decision-making process attempt to guide the swarm.
Robust Stabilization of Micro Aerial Vehicles with Uncertain Actuator Nonlinearities
Authors: Guruganesh R , Bandyopadhyay B. , Arya Hemendra
Published: March 2014

Low cost actuators and linkages used in Micro Aerial Vehicles will lead to unmodeled nonlinearities like dead zone and backlash in the actuator. These actuator nonlinearities are often neglected in the design of feedback control system and can detoriate the system performance remarkably. This paper presents the design of robust control laws for Micro Aerial vehicles (MAV) using sliding mode control approach to deal with nonlinear uncertain plant models. The uncertainties can be in the form of parametric variations, external disturbances or uncertain actuator nonlinearities. The uncertainties are assumed to be bounded with known values. Simulation has been carried out using MAV 6 DoF nonlinear model and the results are provided to check the performance of the control laws.
Performance of Tunnel Lining Materials under Internal Blast Loading
Authors: Chakraborty Tanusree , Larcher Martin , Gebbeken Norbert
Published: March 2014

Performance of different tunnel lining materials under internal blast loading is compared in the present study through three-dimensional nonlinear finite element analyses. A tunnel in sandy soil has been considered for the analyses. The performance of single layered steel plate, plain concrete (PC) slab, steel fibre reinforced concrete (SFRC) slab, sandwich steel-dytherm foam-steel (SDS) panel and steel-polyurethane foam-steel (SPS) panel linings under blast loading has been examined. For material modelling, Drucker-Prager plasticity for soil, Johnson-Cook plasticity for steel, concrete damaged plasticity based on the concepts of fracture-energy-based damage and stiffness degradation in continuum damage mechanics for concrete, SFRC and crushable-foam plasticity for foams have been used. Strain rate dependent material parameters have been used for all lining materials and soil. Internal blast loading of 10 kg TNT has been simulated using the pressure-time curve obtained through CFD-calculations. The resulting displacements at soil-lining interface have been evaluated. It is observed that SDS and SPS sandwich panel linings cause much less displacement in the soil under blast loading as compared to the PC and SFRC linings.
Plato and Divination
Authors: Struck Peter
Published: March 2014

Plato uses the idea of divinatory knowledge as a metaphorical descriptor for a variety of kinds of daytime, waking knowing. What unites these examples is that they all include discussion of a kind of knowing that cannot account for itself, and that is tentative, imagistic and non-discursive. These metaphorical uses can further be illuminated by his more detailed discussion of divinatory knowledge itself in Timeaus.
The Jews and their God of Wine
Authors: Kirkpatrick Jonathan
Published: March 2014

In the period between the two revolts of the Jews of Palestine against Roman rule some non-Jews sought to identify the God of the Jews with their own god of wine, Dionysus or Liber. The actual evidence suggests three things. The cult of the Temple at Jerusalem was seen by outsiders to be characterised by an association with, and the use of, wine, an impression Jews did nothing to counteract. Second, outsiders acted on this impression, both as part of the cognitive step of identifying the God of the Jews with Dionysus, and, possibly, making gifts to the Temple, while it stood, of wine-related dedications. Third, this was a characterisation Jews were willing to embrace themselves, even at times of revolt. It should be emphasised that there is no evidence for any change in actual Temple practice. The wine libations, presumably, were poured as prescribed with their sacrifices, and nobody drank of the libations, least of all the priests.
Paulus in Philippi: Ethik und Theologie
Authors: Becker Eve-Marie
Published: March 2014

During his missionary activities in Asia Minor and Greece, Paul is continuously confronted with the ‘Gods of Others’. Interestingly enough, he is quite reluctant in reacting against his ‘pagan surroundings’-as Luke is in his portrayal of Paul (esp. Acts 16-17). On the basis of reconstructing Paul’s missionary activities in Philippi- a city which was most obviously characterized by ‘Romaness’ (romanitas)-and analyzing Phil 2:6-11-a core piece of Paul’s proclamation of ‘Christ’ -, this article argues that Paul was neither interested in anti-imperial polemics nor in the mythical construct of a ‘Christ-cult’. In order to react on his pagan surroundings in Macedonia and to make the ekklesia of Christ-believers attractive to its sympathizers, he rather uses a myth-historical text by which he teaches the ethos of Christ’s ‘Statusverzicht’ as a moral paradigm (exemplum): In pagan surroundings, Pauline theology thus finds its actual vanishing point in the discourse on ethics and ‘moral progress’.
Estradiol regulates insulin signaling and inflammation in adipose tissue
Authors: Shen Minqian , Kumar Shiva P.D. Senthil , Shi Haifei
Published: March 2014

Background: Obesity-associated low-grade inflammation at white adipose tissue (WAT) leads to metabolic defects. Sex steroid hormone estrogen may be protective against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and insulin resistance. This has been tested by many previous studies utilizing rodent models of ovariectomy (OVX) and/or treatment of estradiol (E2), the major biologically active form of estrogen. Body weight and adiposity are increased by OVX and reduced following E2 treatment, however. Thus, the protective roles of E2 may be secondary effects to the changes in body weight and adiposity. We hypothesize that E2 directly prevents inflammation and maintains insulin sensitivity in WAT independent of energy status using mice with similar body weights and adiposity.

Materials and methods: Four groups of female C57BL/6 mice were used, including sham-operated mice treated with vehicle for E2 and fed with either a low-fat diet (LFD; Sham-Veh-LFD) or a HFD (Sham-Veh-HFD), and HFD-fed OVX mice treated with either vehicle (OVX-Veh-HFD) or E2 (OVX-E2-HFD). Body weight and abdominal parametrial WAT mass, insulin signaling, and expression levels of genes related to low-grade inflammation in WAT were compared between these groups pair-fed with equal amounts of calories for a period of 4 days.

Results: Body weights and WAT mass were similar in all four groups. OVX-Veh-HFD mice had impaired insulin signaling associated with rapid activation of inflammation, whereas OVX-E2-HFD group maintained insulin sensitivity without showing inflammation in WAT.

Conclusions: E2 directly contributed to the maintenance of insulin sensitivity during the early phase of development of metabolic dysfunction, possibly via preventing low-grade inflammation in WAT.