bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Transcriptional Repressor DEC2 Regulates Sleep Length in Mammals
Authors: He Ying , Jones Christopher R. , Fujiki Nobuhiro , Xu Ying , Guo Bin , Holder Jimmy L. , Rossner Moritz J. , Nishino Seiji , Fu Ying-Hui
Published: August 2009

Reducing Sleep Length

Humans, like most animals, need their beauty sleep. But the preferred amount and quality of sleep varies between individuals—and some individuals exhibit a heritable, lifetime tendency to sleep less then 6 hours per night.

He
et al.

(p.
866
; see the Perspective by

Hor and Tafti

) identified a mutation in humans associated with people who regularly require shorter than usual sleep duration. The mutation is found in the gene encoding a transcriptional repressor, DEC2, already implicated in regulation of circadian rhythms. Related mutations introduced into mice and flies similarly resulted in shortened sleep phases.
Cellulosic Biofuels—Got Gasoline?
Authors: Regalbuto John R.
Published: August 2009

Several routes are being developed to convert biomass into hydrocarbon fuels instead of ethanol.
Protein Friction Limits Diffusive and Directed Movements of Kinesin Motors on Microtubules
Authors: Bormuth Volker , Varga Vladimir , Howard Jonathon , Schäffer Erik
Published: August 2009

Friction in Microscopic Motor

Friction arises because adhesive bonds between two bodies must be broken in order for them to move relative to each other. Now

Bormuth
et al.

(p.
870
; see the Perspective by

Veigel and Schmidt

) have used single molecule measurements to characterize the frictional drag force of kinesin-8 motor proteins interacting with their microtubule track. Friction, arising from rupture of bonds with the track, constrains the speed and efficiency of the motor protein.
Mesotocin and Nonapeptide Receptors Promote Estrildid Flocking Behavior
Authors: Goodson James L. , Schrock Sara E. , Klatt James D. , Kabelik David , Kingsbury Marcy A.
Published: August 2009

Why Birds of a Feather Flock Together

The biological determination of sociality, that is, why one might choose to associate with others and how many, has been unclear.

Goodson
et al.

(p.
862
) show that in gregarious finches, oxytocin-like receptors and their cognate ligand, mesotocin, are associated with group size choices. Receptor distributions clearly differentiate territorial species from flocking species. Furthermore, these compounds appear to play a role in affecting choice in affiliation in mammals, and thus may be conserved across evolutionary distant taxa.
Docking in Metal-Organic Frameworks
Authors: Li Qiaowei , Zhang Wenyu , Miljanić Ognjen Š. , Sue Chi-Hau , Zhao Yan-Li , Liu Lihua , Knobler Carolyn B. , Stoddart J. Fraser , Yaghi Omar M.
Published: August 2009

MOFs with Guest Rooms

Metal organic framework (MOF) solids typically boast large pores in their crystal lattices that can accommodate molecular guests and are useful as compact media for gas storage. However, guest binding has generally relied upon nonspecific interactions with the framework components.

Li
et al.

(p.
855
) have now prepared MOFs that incorporate macrocyclic ethers into the structural ligands comprising the framework walls within which certain cationic guests can bind quantitatively and site-specifically, akin to the molecular docking of drug molecules within protein receptors.
Capuchin Monkeys Display Affiliation Toward Humans Who Imitate Them
Authors: Paukner Annika , Suomi Stephen J. , Visalberghi Elisabetta , Ferrari Pier F.
Published: August 2009

Monkey See Human Do

Imitation has been put forth as one mechanism through which cultural learning occurs.

Paukner
et al.

(p.
880
; see the Perspective by

Call and Carpenter

) now demonstrate that imitation may also contribute to prosocial behaviors. Capuchin monkeys behaved in a more affiliative manner—as assessed by direction of gaze, physical proximity, and token exchange—toward humans who imitated them as compared to humans who performed the same movements, but did not do so simultaneously.
Impact of Anode Microstructure on Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Suzuki Toshio , Hasan Zahir , Funahashi Yoshihiro , Yamaguchi Toshiaki , Fujishiro Yoshinobu , Awano Masanobu
Published: August 2009

Porous Anodes for Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Fuel cells that use ion-conducting oxides as the electrolyte can be highly efficient and use hydrocarbon fuels directly. However, their very high operating temperatures (usually above 700°C) can lead to unwanted reactions with their electrode materials and premature degradation of their performance. In order to improve fuel-cell electrochemical performance,

Suzuki
et al.

(p.
852
) describe a route for increasing the porosity of the anode material, which contains nickel oxide and zirconia doped with scandium and cerium and is fabricated as a cylinder. Subsequent coating and firing steps added a layer of a zirconia-based electrolyte and the (La,Sr)(Co,Fe)O
3
cathode. The resulting fuel-cell power density exceeded 1 watt per square centimeter at 600°C, and its performance improved as hydrogen fuel velocities were increased through the cell.
ER Stress Controls Iron Metabolism Through Induction of Hepcidin
Authors: Vecchi Chiara , Montosi Giuliana , Zhang Kezhong , Lamberti Igor , Duncan Stephen A. , Kaufman Randal J. , Pietrangelo Antonello
Published: August 2009

Ironing Out Stress

The peptide hormone, hepcidin, is secreted from the liver in response to extracellular factors, including inflammation, and regulates iron homeostasis by controlling transmembrane iron transport.

Vecchi
et al.

(p.
877
) showed that intracellular stress signals in the endoplasmic reticulum also control hepcidin expression and can thus modulate local or systemic iron traffic. This mechanism occurs through the transcription factor CREBH, which is a known mediator of the inflammatory response. Collectively, the results suggest a direct link between the intracellular stress response, innate immunity, and iron metabolism.
Friction in Motor Proteins
Authors: Veigel Claudia , Schmidt Christoph F.
Published: August 2009

Single-molecule experiments elucidate the role of friction in the motion of the kinesin motor protein.
Monkeys Like Mimics
Authors: Call Josep , Carpenter Malinda
Published: August 2009

Human and nonhuman primates recognize when they are being imitated. Is there a social advantage to that?
Northern India's Groundwater Is Going, Going, Going …
Authors: Kerr Richard A.
Published: August 2009

Satellite remote sensing of a 2000-kilometer swath running from eastern Pakistan across northern India and into Bangladesh indicates that 54 cubic kilometers of groundwater are being lost per year from the world's most intensively irrigated region hosting 600 million people.
Chu Lays Out an Agenda for PCAST and Asks for Help
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: August 2009

Energy Secretary Steven Chu says that one of his top budget priorities—to spend $288 million on eight break-the-mold energy-research centers modeled after the legendary Bell Labs—was rejected by the U.S. Congress because he failed to deliver the sales pitch in person.
Margaret Hamburg Aims to Strengthen FDA Science
Authors: Koenig Robert
Published: August 2009

In an interview with
Science
last week, U.S. Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Margaret Hamburg discussed her plans for the agency and dismissed rumors that she and Deputy Commissioner Joshua Sharfstein would each manage different FDA functions. The interview has been edited for brevity.
Recipe for Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Just Got Clearer
Authors: Normile Dennis
Published: August 2009

A clutch of five letters published online this week shows that
p53
hinders the generation of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. The work suggests ways to control the formation of iPS cells, although that capability will have to be used judiciously because
p53
helps ensure the fitness of generated cells.
Many More More-Efficient Computers
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: August 2009

One watt in every 50 now goes to powering computers, but big savings can still be made by using more-efficient power supplies and automatically putting idling computers into an energy-saving "sleep" mode.
Wanted: Help With Building Design
Authors: Charles Dan
Published: August 2009

Current computer-aided design tools are not making it easy for architects to design buildings for energy efficiency. New software is needed.
The Quest for White LEDs Hits the Home Stretch
Authors: Service Robert F.
Published: August 2009

White light–emitting diodes are still not ready to go head to head with cheaper incandescent bulbs and fluorescents. A new spate of advances, however, suggests that the whitecoats are coming.
Aircraft Designers Shoot for Savings on the Wing
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: August 2009

Commercial aircraft have become steadily more fuel-efficient by using better engines and reducing the drag and weight of the planes themselves. But efficiency increases beyond that may require a radical change in the shape of the aircraft, which carries enormous risks for manufacturers and airlines.
Immune Responses of Human Immature Dendritic Cells Can Be Modulated by the Recombinant
Aspergillus fumigatus
Antigen Aspf1
Authors: Ok Michael , Latgé Jean Paul , Baeuerlein Carina , Ebel Frank , Mezger Markus , Topp Max , Kurzai Oliver , Killian Doreen , Kapp Markus , Grigoleit Goetz-Ulrich , Sennefelder Helga , Arroyo Javier , Einsele Hermann , Loeffler Juergen
Published: August 2009

Invasive aspergillosis is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients after stem cell transplantation, in solid organ transplant recipients, and in patients with hematological malignancies. The interactions between human immature dendritic cells (iDCs) and
Aspergillus fumigatus
antigens are widely uncharacterized. We analyzed the immune response of iDCs to different recombinant
A. fumigatus
antigens (Aspf1 and Crf1). One of these antigens, the 18-kDa RNase Aspf1, triggered the increased level of expression of genes encoding proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and augmented the activation of NFκB and the apoptosis of iDCs. Furthermore, by fluorescence microscopy, we could demonstrate that in the first 3 h a major portion of Aspf1 accumulates on the cell surface. Finally, we could show an increased segregation of cytokines and chemokines after the stimulation of iDCs by an Aspf1 deletion mutant strain of
A. fumigatus
.
Detection of
Coccidioides
Antigenemia following Dissociation of Immune Complexes
Authors: Durkin Michelle , Estok Lois , Hospenthal Duane , Crum-Cianflone Nancy , Swartzentruber Samantha , Hackett Emily , Wheat L. Joseph
Published: August 2009

Having reported that pretreatment of serum samples with EDTA at 100°C improved the sensitivity for the detection of
Histoplasma
antigenemia, we have evaluated this method for the detection of
Coccidioides
antigenemia. Urine and serum samples from patients with coccidioidomycosis were tested using the MVista
Coccidioides
enzyme immunoassay, and serum samples with and without EDTA-heat treatment were tested. Antigenemia was detected in 28.6% of patients whose samples were not EDTA-heat treated and in 73.1% of those whose samples were treated. Antigenuria was detected in 50% of patients. Specificity of 100% was obtained in healthy subjects, but cross-reactions were seen in 22.2% of patients with histoplasmosis or blastomycosis. EDTA-heat treatment improves the sensitivity for the detection of
Coccidioides
antigenemia.
Genomic Analyses of Recombinant Adenovirus Type 11a in China
Authors: Yang Zhaohui , Zhu Zhen , Tang Liuying , Wang Li , Tan Xiaojuan , Yu Pengbo , Zhang Yong , Tian Xiaoping , Wang Jingjun , Zhang Yan , Li Dexin , Xu Wenbo
Published: August 2009

Whole-genome sequencing of human adenovirus type 11 (HAdV-11) strain QS, isolated in China, was conducted, and its sequence was compared with the sequences of strains within the species of HAdVs. The HAdV-11 QS genome contains 34,755 nucleotides. Similar to the other HAdV subgenus B sequences, the HAdV-11 QS genome coded 37 functional proteins and could be divided into four early, two intermediate, and five late transcription regions. The amino acid sequences of the fiber and the hypervariable regions (HVRs) within the hexon gene of HAdV-11 QS were identical to the corresponding sequences of the HAdV-11a strain; further analyses that compared those amino acid sequences with the amino acid sequences of the HAdV species subgenus B:2 strains revealed that the highest degree of homology (>99.2%) existed between HAdV-11 QS and the prototypical HAdV-14 strain, except for a few coding sequences of HVRs within the hexon gene, DNA polymerase, pVI, and pre-terminal protein. This indicate that HAdV-11 strain QS, isolated in China, is a recombinant adenovirus of HAdV-14, and the recombination analyses also confirmed this finding. It is difficult to clarify the time and manner of the recombination, and further investigations are required to determine whether the emergence of recombination between HAdV-11a and HAdV-14 might increase virulence, thereby posing a new global challenge with regard to acute respiratory diseases in the near future.
Porphyromonas gingivalis
Strain Diversity
Authors: Igboin Christina O. , Griffen Ann L. , Leys Eugene J.
Published: August 2009

Porphyromonas gingivalis
is implicated in the etiology of chronic periodontitis. Genotyping studies suggest that genetic variability exists among
P. gingivalis
strains; however, the extent of variability remains unclear and regions of variability remain largely unidentified. To assess
P. gingivalis
strain diversity, we previously used heteroduplex analysis of the ribosomal operon intergenic spacer region (ISR) to type strains in clinical samples and identified 22 heteroduplex types. Additionally, we used ISR sequence analysis to determine the relatedness of
P. gingivalis
strains to one another and demonstrated a link between ISR sequence phylogeny and the disease-associated phenotype of the strains. In the current study, heteroduplex analysis of the ISR was used to determine the worldwide genetic variability and distribution of
P. gingivalis
, and microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) analysis was used to more comprehensively examine the variability of major heteroduplex type strains by using the entire genome. Heteroduplex analysis of clinical samples from geographically diverse populations identified 6 predominant geographically widespread heteroduplex types (prevalence, ≥5%) and 14 rare heterodpulex types (prevalence, <2%) which are found in one or a few locations. CGH analysis of the genomes of seven clinically prevalent heteroduplex type strains identified 133 genes from strain W83 that were divergent in at least one of the other strains. The relatedness of the strains to one another determined on the basis of genome content (microarray) analysis was highly similar to their relatedness determined on the basis of ISR sequence analysis, and a striking correlation between the genome contents and disease-associated phenotypes of the strains was observed.
First Case of Disseminated
Mycobacterium bolletii
Infection in a Young Adult Patient
Authors: Koh Won-Jung , Kwon O. Jung , Lee Nam Young , Kook Yoon-Hoh , Lee Hyung-Ki , Kim Bum-Joon
Published: August 2009

Mycobacterium bolletii
is a rapidly growing nontuberculous mycobacterium first characterized in 2006. Here, we report a case of disseminated infection caused by
M. bolletii
in a young adult patient. To our knowledge, this is the first case of disseminated
M. bolletii
infection in an otherwise healthy young adult.
Fatal
Actinomucor elegans
var.
kuwaitiensis
Infection following Combat Trauma
Authors: Tully Charla C. , Romanelli Anna M. , Sutton Deanna A. , Wickes Brian L. , Hospenthal Duane R.
Published: August 2009

We report the first case of invasive mucormycosis secondary to
Actinomucor elegan
s
infection. A severely injured soldier with a fatal
A. elegans
var.
kuwaitiensis
infection is described. The identification of this fungus was performed by classical and molecular methods, and this report documents the pathogenicity of the recently described variety
Actinomucor elegans
var.
kuwaitiensis.
Selection of surrogates for a genetically engineered microorganism with cellulolytic capability for ecological studies in streams
Authors: Bott T. L. , Kaplan L. A.
Published: August 2009

Aerobic cellulolytic bacteria were ranked according to ability to degrade cellulose azure and to clear cellulose agar. Cellulomonas uda NRRL B404 and Cellulomonas sp. NRC 2406 showed greater clearing of cellulose agar than other isolates, but differences in cellulose azure decomposition were not statistically significant. Isolates were tested for ability to accelerate decomposition of tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) leaves and Cladophora glomerata (Chlorophyta) detritus in stream water. There was significantly more cellulose lost from leaves exposed to Cellulomonas flavigena NRC 2403, Cellulomonas fimi NRRL B402, Cellulomonas sp. NRC 2406, and Cellvibrio gilvus ATCC 13127 and NRC 2407 than in the stream-water control, and the weight losses of leaves exposed to some isolates were significantly greater than in the control. There was significantly more cellulose lost from Cladophora glomerata detritus exposed to these and five other isolates, and there were greater weight losses than in the stream-water control. Cellulomonas uda NRRL B404 was the slowest growing isolate, although growth rates of isolates did not differ statistically. Cellulomonas uda NRRL B404, Cellulomonas sp. NRC 2406, Cellulomonas fimi NRRL B402, Cellulomonas flavigena NRC 2403, and Cellvibrio gilvus ATCC 13127 were selected as the best candidates for larger scale experiments. Persistence of Cellulomonas uda, Cellulomonas sp. NRC 2406, and Cellulomonas sp. CS1-1 in stream-bed sediments was studied in flowing-water microcosms, using fluorescent antibodies and epifluorescence microscopic counts to asses densities of target cells. Isolate densities declined from postinoculation maxima, but organisms were detected 2–4 weeks later in three different experiments. Key words: cellulolytic bacteria, detritus, decomposition, population dynamics, microcosms.
Environmental factors affecting the antagonism of Pseudomonas cepacia against Trichoderma viride
Authors: Upadhyay Ram S. , Visintin Luisa , Jayaswal R. K.
Published: August 2009

Antagonistic activity of the bacterium Pseudomonas cepacia against Trichoderma viride was greatly influenced by nutritional and environmental conditions. Xylose and trehalose strongly enhanced the antifungal activity of P. cepacia, whereas mannitol and glucose had little effect. The carbon sources that enhanced the antagonistic activity also inhibited sporulation of T. viride. Antagonism of P. cepacia was enhanced by ammonium nitrogen; however, with nitrite or nitrate there was only a little antagonism. The antagonism of P. cepacia was optimal at pH 5.0. Although P. cepacia showed maximum antagonism against T. viride at 37 °C, the antagonism was fairly good at temperatures as low as 18 °C, indicating that there is a broad range of temperature for the antifungal activity of P. cepacia. Key words: antagonism, environmental factors, Pseudomonas cepacia, Trichoderma viride.
Polyamine distributions in the Flavobacterium–Cytophaga–Sphingobacterium complex
Authors: Hamana Koei , Matsuzaki Shigeru
Published: August 2009

Homospermidine was found as the major polyamine in one newly described species of Flavobacterium (F. indologenes), in three species of Sphingobacterium (S. mizutae, S. multivorium, and S. spiritivorum), and in 10 species of Cytophaga (C. aquatilis, C. arvensicola, C. heparina, C. hutchinsonii, C. johnsonae, "C. keratolytica," C. lytica, C. marinoflava, C. uliginosa, and "C. xantha"). These bacteria also all contain putrescine and agmatine as minor components. Flavobacterium indologenes and C. johnsonae contain an unusual diamine, 2-hydroxyputrescine, as a major polyamine. The polyamine distributions of four other species originally included in Flavobacterium (F. acidurans, "F. dormitator," "F. tirrenicum," and Halomonas halmophila), whose taxonomic positions are or were uncertain, were different from the group mentioned above. They either contain spermidine as the major polyamine or lack any polyamine. These results suggest that homospermidine can serve as a chemotaxonomic marker to delineate true members of the Flavobacterium–Cytophaga–Sphingobacterium complex. Key words: polyamine, homospermidine, hydroxyputrescine, Flavobacterium, Cytophaga, Sphingobacterium.
Electrical resistance properties of tree tissues in cankers incited by Endothiaparasitica and Nectriagalligena
Authors: Sylvia David M. , Tattar Terry A.
Published: August 2009

Electrical resistance (ER) measurements were taken with a Shigometer across tree cankers found on Castaneadentata, Betulalenta, and B. populifolia. Cankers were incited by Endothiaparasitica and Nectriagalligena, respectively. Measurements taken along the vertical axis of the stem were at 2-cm intervals from 8 cm above the canker margin to 8 cm below the canker. Three zones of electrical character were distinguished. The canker margin exhibited decreased ER as compared with healthy tissue, whereas ER increased in the canker face. Moisture content, mobile cation concentration, and the path of current flow were all found to contribute to ER. Multiple regression analyses indicated fundamental changes in the variables contributing to ER in summer and winter samples. Strong inverse relationships were found between ER and total ash and between ER and potassium concentrations in September. February samples, however, exhibited an inverse correlation between ER and moisture content. These data indicated that moisture was the dominating factor in ER measurements of stem tissue in the winter.
Stump colonization and spread of Fomesannosus 5 years after thinning
Authors: Morrison D. J. , Johnson A. L. S.
Published: August 2009

Plots were thinned each month for 1 year in a Douglas-fir (Pseudotsugamenziesii (Mirb.) Franco) plantation and western hemlock (Tsugaheterophylla (Raf.) Sarg.) stand. Stumps colonized by Fomesannosus (Fr.) Karst. declined from an average of 82% in Douglas-fir and 62% in hemlock, 6 months after thinning, to 4 and 9%, respectively, 5 years after thinning. In 7 Douglas-fir and 14 hemlock stumps, F. annosus had colonized one or more primary roots and the stumps were a source of inoculum for new infection centers. The thinning, which removed about 25% of the stems, potentially doubled the number of F. annosus infection centers.
A system using aerial photography to estimate area of root disease centers in forests
Authors: Williams Ralph E. , Leaphart C. D.
Published: August 2009

The area of root disease centers on the Coeur d'Alene National Forest in northern Idaho was effectively estimated from large-scale color infrared aerial photographs. An estimated 5.1% (12 160.7 ha) of the commercial forest land was occupied by infection centers. Root disease centers were identified in 113 of 364 stands actually surveyed. Although most of these 113 stands were of the Tsugaheterophylla – Pachistimamyrsinites habitat type, the highest percentage of stands with root disease was found in the Abiesgrandis – Pachistimamyrsinites habitat type.Observations made during these studies suggest that occurrence of Pseudotsugamenziesii (Mirb.) Franco, Abiesgrandis (Dougl.) Lindl., or both in a stand is the most important factor in the expression of root disease centers. Accuracy of interpretation of photographs was 92%; incorrect interpretations were consistently associated with stands in the Abieslasiocarpa series of habitat types or with stands stocked with conifers tolerant of root pathogens.
Age-class distribution and the forest fire cycle
Authors: Wagner C. E. Van
Published: August 2009

The expected age-class structure of a forest dependent on random periodic fire for disturbance and renewal is derived and presented. It is simply the negative exponential distribution, well known in probability mathematics. An important feature of this concept is that the present age-class structure of such a forest is the key to its past fire history. Its limitations are discussed, and the computer simulation of variations, including the interaction of fire and logging, is described. Three examples of its use in interpreting fire history are given.
Some toxic effects of fenitrothion on seed germination and early seedling growth of jack pine, spruce, and birches
Authors: Weinberger Pearl , Pomber L. , Prasad R.
Published: August 2009

The seeds of four tree species (two conifers and two angiosperms) indigenous to the spruce boreal forests of Canada were exposed to 10 ppm (field concentration) and 1000 ppm fenitrothion during stratification and (or) early seedling growth. Pinusbanksiana Lamb. (jack pine) seeds exposed to 1000 ppm fenitrothion germinated more rapidly at first (0–10 days) but later were indistinguishable from untreated or 10 ppm fenitrothion treated seeds. The speed and percent germination of Piceaglauca (Moench) Voss (white spruce) seeds were unaffected by either fenitrothion treatment. After 5 months growth the conifer seedlings derived from fenitrothion treated seeds were comparable to untreated seedlings. The (angiosperm tree) seeds of Betulaalleghaniensis Britton and Betulapaperifera Marsh, (yellow and white birch) showed reduced germination following exposure to 10 ppm fenitrothion and marked toxicological damage when exposed to 1000 ppm fenitrothion.
Illustration of nursery stock distribution by computer graphics
Authors: Lester D. T. , Martin G. L.
Published: August 2009

Contour and three-dimensional representations were drawn by computer using data for Wisconsin. Utility of the technique and implications of the results are discussed.
ACCURACY OF GENERALIZED DIMENSIONS ESTIMATED FROM GRAYSCALE IMAGES USING THE METHOD OF MOMENTS
Authors: PERFECT E. , TARQUIS A. M. , BIRD N. R. A.
Published: August 2009

The moment-based box counting method of multifractal analysis is widely used for estimating generalized dimensions, Dq, from two-dimensional grayscale images. An evaluation of the accuracy of this method is needed to establish confidence in the resulting estimates of Dq. We estimated Dq from q = -10 to +10 for 23 random geometrical multifractal fields with different grid sizes, and known analytical Dq versus q functions. The fields were transformed to give normalized grayscale values between zero and one. Comparison of the estimated and analytical functions indicated the moment-based box counting method overestimates Dq by as much as 6.9% when q ≪ 0. The root mean square error, RMSE, for the entire range of q values examined ranged from 7.81 × 10-6 to 1.35 × 10-1, with a geometric mean of 6.50 × 10-3. The RMSE decreased with decreasing grid size and increasing heterogeneity. These trends appear to be largely due to the presence of zeros in the normalized grayscale fields. Variations in the slope of the log-transformed partition function, ln [χ(q,δ)], with box size resulted in the overestimation of Dq when q ≪ 0. An alternative procedure for estimating Dq was developed based on the numerical first derivatives of ln [χ(q,δ)]. Using this approach the maximum deviation in Dq values was only 1.2%, while the RMSE varied from 3.11 × 10-6 to 2.72 × 10-2, with a geometric mean of 2.57 × 10-4. When analyzing normalized grayscale fields, moment-based estimates of Dq should be interpreted with care. An order of magnitude increase in the accuracy of Dq can be achieved for such fields if the numerical first derivatives of ln [χ(q,δ)] are used in the analysis instead of standard linear regression.
NORMAL FAMILIES OF BICOMPLEX HOLOMORPHIC FUNCTIONS
Authors: CHARAK K. S. , ROCHON D. , SHARMA N.
Published: August 2009

In this article, we introduce the concept of normal families of bicomplex holomorphic functions to obtain a bicomplex Montel theorem. Moreover, we give a general definition of Fatou and Julia sets for bicomplex polynomials and we obtain a characterization of bicomplex Fatou and Julia sets in terms of Fatou set, Julia set and filled-in Julia set of one complex variable. Some 3D visual examples of bicomplex Julia sets are also given for the specific slice j = 0.
ON A GENERALIZED FATOU–JULIA THEOREM IN MULTICOMPLEX SPACES
Authors: GARANT–PELLETIER V. , ROCHON D.
Published: August 2009

In this article we introduce the hypercomplex 3D fractals generated from Multicomplex Dynamics. We generalize the well known Mandelbrot and filled-in Julia sets for the multicomplex numbers (i.e. bicomplex, tricomplex, etc.). In particular, we give a multicomplex version of the so-called Fatou-Julia theorem. More precisely, we present a complete topological characterization in ℝ2n of the multicomplex filled-in Julia set for a quadratic polynomial in multicomplex numbers of the form w2 + c. We also point out the symmetries between the principal 3D slices of the generalized Mandelbrot set for tricomplex numbers.
Baleno: Expanding Retail Operations in China
Authors: Luk Sherriff T. K. , Chen Ivy S. N.
Published: August 2009

Fuelled by impressive economic growth in recent years, consumers' demand for clothing in China had been increasing. Expenditure on clothing of urban households rose from 374.19 billion yuan in 2004 to 509.29 billion yuan in 2006 (an increase of 36.1%), and for rural households, this increased from 91.66 billion yuan to 118.36 billion yuan (an increase of 29.1%).

Baleno, a casual wear retailer, had used mainly franchising to expand its retail network. This method allowed for rapid expansion but controlling franchisees in China could be problematic. Opening directly managed stores, on the other hand, required more capital. Baleno needed to decide how it should keep up with the growth in demand and with the expansion of its competitors.
Dettol: Managing Brand Extensions
Authors: Jaiswal Anand Kumar , Srivastav Arpita , Kothari Dhwani
Published: August 2009

This case is about evolution of a parent brand and its subsequent extensions into different product categories. Dettol as a brand has immense trust and loyalty from the consumers. Since the 1930s when Dettol was introduced in India, it has occupied a distinct position in the mind of its consumers. To achieve fast growth and leverage the strong brand equity of Dettol, Reckitt Benckiser India Limited (RBIL) rolled out a number of brand extensions. Some of these extensions such as Dettol soap and Dettol liquid hand wash became phenomenal successes, but most others failed to perform. The case deals with the questions of why some extensions achieve great success while others fail miserably.
Density Matrix Description of Fast and Slow Light Propagation in Sodium Vapour
Authors: Alhasan Abu Mohamed
Published: August 2009

The dual-colour excitation for D1 transition is analysed taking into account the hyperfine structure of sodium atomic vapour. The advancement of the probe and restoring fields are calculated through different time average schemes. The first scheme depends on the arrival time of the pulse. The other one depends explicitly on the arrival time of photons. The evolution of atomic states is described by the Liouville-von Neumann equation for the density matrix of the dressed atom. The spatiotemporal behaviour of radiation fields is described by the reduced Maxwell's field equations. We monitor the populations of atomic levels and calculate the scattered light intensity. The mean arrival time of photons is suitably defined in terms of the scattered light intensity and the total scattered light at a given distance.
The Frame Potential, on Average
Authors: Bengtsson Ingemar , Granström Helena
Published: August 2009

A Symmetric Informationally Complete Positive Operator Valued Measure (SIC) consists of N2 equiangular unit vectors in an N dimensional Hilbert space. The frame potential is a function of N2 unit vectors. It has a unique global minimum if the vectors form a SIC, and this property has been made use of in numerical searches for SICs. When the vectors form an orbit of the Weyl-Heisenberg group the frame potential becomes a function of a single fiducial vector. We analytically compute the average of this function over Hilbert space. We also compute averages when the fiducial vector is placed in certain special subspaces defined by the Clifford group.
On a Combined Quantum Baker's Map and Its Characterization by Entropic Chaos Degree
Authors: Inoue Kei , Ohya Masanori , Volovich Igor V.
Published: August 2009

Quantum Baker's map is a theoretical model that exhibits chaos in a quantum system. In this paper, we introduce a combined map by combining several quantum Baker's maps. Chaos of such a combined dynamics is studied by the entropic chaos degree.
Entanglement Generation and Evolution in Open Quantum Systems
Authors: Isar Aurelian
Published: August 2009

In the framework of the theory of open systems based on completely positive quantum dynamical semigroups, we study the continuous variable entanglement for a system consisting of two independent harmonic oscillators interacting with a general environment. We solve the Kossakowski-Lindblad master equation for the time evolution of the considered system and describe the entanglement in terms of the covariance matrix for an arbitrary Gaussian input state. Using Peres–Simon necessary and sufficient criterion for separability of two-mode Gaussian states, we show that for certain values of diffusion and dissipation coefficients describing the environment, the state keeps for all times its initial type: separable or entangled. In other cases, entanglement generation, entanglement sudden death or a periodic collapse and revival of entanglement take place. We analyze also the time evolution of the logarithmic negativity, which characterizes the degree of entanglement of the quantum state.
Schwinger Geometry, Bethe Ansatz, and a Magnonic Qudit
Authors: Jakubczyk Paweł , Topolewicz Stanisław , Wal Andrzej , Lulek Tadeusz
Published: August 2009

Schwinger approach of unitary geometry for a finite-dimensional Hilbert space is interpreted in terms of a magnonic qudit — a hypothetic elementary unit of memory of a quantum computer. The space is interpreted within the Heisenberg model for a magnetic ring, its calculational basis as the classical configuration space for a single spin deviation, treated as a Bethe pseudoparticle, and the dual basis corresponds to quasimomenta, so that the classical phase space spans the quantum algebra of observables. Effects of the Schur-Weyl duality and Bethe ansatz exact eigenstates of the Heisenberg Hamiltonian for the XXX model on properties of the magnonic qudit are presented.
On the Structure of Generators for Non-Markovian Master Equations
Authors: Kossakowski Andrzej , Rebolledo Rolando
Published: August 2009

Complete characterization of complete positivity preserving non-Markovian master equations is presented.
Some Aspects of Complexities for Quantum Processes
Authors: Watanabe Noboru
Published: August 2009

In quantum information theory, Emch, Conne, and Stormer were the first who studied the complexity of quantum dynamical processes. After that, Ohya introduced the [Formula: see text]-mixing entropy for general quantum systems and he defined the mean entropy and the mean mutual entropy for quantum dynamical systems based on the [Formula: see text]-mixing entropy. Conne, Narnhoffer and Thirring introduced the dynamical entropy (CNT entropy) and several researchers discussed this concept. Alicki and Fannes defined a different dynamical entropy — AF entropy. In 1995, Voiculescu proposed the dynamical approximation entropy. Accardi, Ohya and Watanabe defined yet another dynamical entropy (AOW entropy) through a quantum Markov process in 1997. In 1999, Kossakowski, Ohya and Watanabe introduced the dynamical entropy (KOW entropy) with respect to completely positive maps. In this paper, we discuss the complexity of quantum dynamical processes to calculate the dynamical entropy for noisy optical channels.

In order to discuss the efficiency of information communication processes, a measure of complexity of initial state itself and a measure of transmitted complexity through communication channels are necessary. Quantum entropies were formulated on the basis of the quantum probability theory. In quantum communication systems, von Neumann entropy and Ohya mutual entropy relate to these measures of complexities, respectively. Recently, several mutual entropy type measures (Lindblad-Nielsen entropy and coherent entropy) were defined making use of entropy exchange with respect to a channel and initial state. In this paper, we show which of the measures is the most suitable one for discussing the efficiency of information transmission for quantum processes.
Vernalization: Winter and the Timing of Flowering in Plants
Authors: Kim Dong-Hwan , Doyle Mark R. , Sung Sibum , Amasino Richard M.
Published: August 2009

Plants have evolved many systems to sense their environment and to modify their growth and development accordingly. One example is vernalization, the process by which flowering is promoted as plants sense exposure to the cold temperatures of winter. A requirement for vernalization is an adaptive trait that helps prevent flowering before winter and permits flowering in the favorable conditions of spring. In Arabidopsis and cereals, vernalization results in the suppression of genes that repress flowering. We describe recent progress in understanding the molecular basis of this suppression. In Arabidopsis, vernalization involves the recruitment of chromatin-modifying complexes to a clade of flowering repressors that are silenced epigenetically via histone modifications. We also discuss the similarities and differences in vernalization between Arabidopsis and cereals.
Closed-state inactivation in Kv4.3 isoforms is differentially modulated by protein kinase C
Authors: Xie Chang , Bondarenko Vladimir E. , Morales Michael J. , Strauss Harold C.
Published: August 2009

Kv4.3, with its complex open- and closed-state inactivation (CSI) characteristics, is a primary contributor to early cardiac repolarization. The two alternatively spliced forms, Kv4.3-short (Kv4.3-S) and Kv4.3-long (Kv4.3-L), differ by the presence of a 19-amino acid insert downstream from the sixth transmembrane segment. The isoforms are similar kinetically; however, the longer form has a unique PKC phosphorylation site. To test the possibility that inactivation is differentially regulated by phosphorylation, we expressed the Kv4.3 isoforms in Xenopus oocytes and examined changes in their inactivation properties after stimulation of PKC activity. Whereas there was no difference in open-state inactivation, there were profound differences in CSI. In Kv4.3-S, PMA reduced the magnitude of CSI by 24% after 14.4 s at −50 mV. In contrast, the magnitude of CSI in Kv4.3-L increased by 25% under the same conditions. Mutation of a putatively phosphorylated threonine (T504) to aspartic acid within a PKC consensus recognition sequence unique to Kv4.3-L eliminated the PMA response. The change in CSI was independent of the intervention used to increase PKC activity; identical results were obtained with either PMA or injected purified PKC. Our previously published 11-state model closely simulated our experimental data. Our data demonstrate isoform-specific regulation of CSI by PKC in Kv4.3 and show that the carboxy terminus of Kv4.3 plays an important role in regulation of CSI.
Secretory state regulates Zn2+ transport in gastric parietal cell of the rabbit
Authors: Naik Haley B. , Beshire Melissa , Walsh Breda M. , Liu Jingjing , Soybel David I.
Published: August 2009

Secretory compartments of neurons, endocrine cells, and exocrine glands are acidic and contain high levels of labile Zn2+. Previously, we reported evidence that acidity is regulated, in part, by the content of Zn2+ in the secretory [i.e., tubulovesicle (TV)] compartment of the acid-secreting gastric parietal cell. Here we report studies focusing on the mechanisms of Zn2+ transport by the TV compartment in the mammalian (rabbit) gastric parietal cell. Uptake of Zn2+ by isolated TV structures was monitored with a novel application of the fluorescent Zn2+ reporter N-(6-methoxy-8-quinolyl)- para-toluenesulfonamide (TSQ). Uptake was suppressed by removal of external ATP or blockade of H+-K+-ATPase that mediates luminal acid secretion. Uptake was diminished with dissipation of the proton gradient across the TV membrane, suggesting Zn2+/H+ antiport as the connection between Zn2+ uptake and acidity in the TV lumen. In isolated gastric glands loaded with the reporter fluozin-3, inhibition of H+-K+-ATPase arrested the flow of Zn2+ from the cytoplasm to the TV compartment and secretory stimulation with forskolin enhanced vectorial movement of cytoplasmic Zn2+ into the tubulovesicle/lumen (TV/L) compartment. Our findings suggest that Zn2+ accumulation in the TV/L compartment is physiologically coupled to secretion of acid. These findings offer novel insight into mechanisms regulating Zn2+ homeostasis in the gastric parietal cell and potentially other cells in which acidic subcellular compartments serve signature functional roles.
The role of nitric oxide in the development of neurogenic pulmonary edema in spinal cord-injured rats: the effect of preventive interventions
Authors: Šedý Jiří , Zicha Josef , Kuneš Jaroslav , Hejčl Aleš , Syková Eva
Published: August 2009

Neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE) is an acute life-threatening complication following an injury of the spinal cord or brain, which is associated with sympathetic hyperactivity. The role of nitric oxide (NO) in NPE development in rats subjected to balloon compression of the spinal cord has not yet been examined. We, therefore, pretreated Wistar rats with the NO synthase inhibitor NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) either acutely (just before the injury) or chronically (for 4 wk prior to the injury). Acute (but not chronic) l-NAME administration enhanced NPE severity in rats anesthetized with 1.5% isoflurane, leading to the death of 83% of the animals within 10 min after injury. Pretreatment with either the ganglionic blocker pentolinium (to reduce blood pressure rise) or the muscarinic receptor blocker atropine (to lessen heart rate decrease) prevented or attenuated NPE development in these rats. We did not observe any therapeutic effects of atropine administered 2 min after spinal cord compression. Our data indicate that NPE development is dependent upon a marked decrease of heart rate under the conditions of high blood pressure elicited by the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. These hemodynamic alterations are especially pronounced in rats subjected to acute NO synthase inhibition. In conclusion, nitric oxide has a partial protective effect on NPE development because it attenuates sympathetic vasoconstriction and consequent baroreflex-induced bradycardia following spinal cord injury.
Sex-specific differences in cardiac control and hematology of sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) approaching their spawning grounds
Authors: Sandblom Erik , Clark Timothy D. , Hinch Scott G. , Farrell Anthony P.
Published: August 2009

Some male salmonids (e.g., rainbow trout) display profound cardiovascular adjustments during sexual maturation, including cardiac growth and hypertension, and tachycardia has been observed in free-ranging male salmonids near their spawning grounds. In the present study, we investigated cardiac control, dorsal aortic blood pressure, cardiac morphometrics, and hematological variables in wild, sexually maturing sockeye salmon ( Oncorhynchus nerka) with a particular aim to decipher any sex-specific differences. Routine heart rate ( fH) was significantly higher in females (52 vs. 43 beats/min), which was due to significantly lower cholinergic tone (28 vs. 46%), because there were no differences in adrenergic tone or intrinsic heart rate between sexes. No differences in blood pressure were observed despite males possessing an 11% greater relative ventricular mass. Concomitant with higher routine heart rates, female sockeye had significantly higher levels of cortisol, testosterone, and 17β-estradiol, whereas the level of 11-ketotestosterone was higher in males. There were no differences in hematocrit or hemoglobin concentration between the sexes. The findings of this study highlight the importance of considering sex as a variable in research fields such as conservation biology and when modeling the consequences of local and global climate change. Indeed, this study helps to provide a mechanistic basis for the significantly higher rates of female mortality observed in previous studies of wild-caught sockeye salmon.
Unlike each drug alone, lisinopril if combined with avosentan promotes regression of renal lesions in experimental diabetes
Authors: Gagliardini Elena , Corna Daniela , Zoja Carla , Sangalli Fabio , Carrara Fabiola , Rossi Matteo , Conti Sara , Rottoli Daniela , Longaretti Lorena , Remuzzi Andrea , Remuzzi Giuseppe , Benigni Ariela
Published: August 2009

In the present study, we evaluated the effect of simultaneously blocking angiotensin II synthesis and endothelin (ET)-1 activity as a multimodal intervention to implement renoprotection in overt diabetic nephropathy. Mechanisms underlying combined therapy effectiveness were addressed by investigating podocyte structure and function and glomerular barrier size-selective properties. Uninephrectomized rats made diabetic by streptozotocin received orally placebo, lisinopril (12.5 mg/l), the ETAreceptor antagonist avosentan (30 mg/kg), or their combination from 4 (when animals had proteinuria) to 8 mo. Proteinuria, renal damage, podocyte number, nephrin expression, and glomerular size selectivity by graded-size Ficoll molecule fractional clearance were assessed. Combined therapy normalized proteinuria, provided complete protection from tubulointerstitial damage, and induced regression of glomerular lesions, while only a partial renoprotection was achieved by each drug alone. Lisinopril plus avosentan restored to normal values the number of podocytes. Single therapies only limited podocyte depletion. Defective nephrin expression of diabetes was prevented by each drug. Altered glomerular size selectivity to large macromolecules of diabetic rats was remarkably improved by lisinopril and the combined treatment. Avosentan ameliorated peritubular capillary architecture and reduced interstitial inflammation and fibrosis. The ACE inhibitor and ETAreceptor antagonist induced regression of glomerular lesions in overt diabetic nephropathy. Regression of renal disease was conceivably the result of the synergistic effect of the ACE inhibitor of preserving glomerular permselective properties and the ETAantagonist in improving tubulointerstitial changes. These findings provide mechanistic insights to explain the antiproteinuric effect of this combined therapy in diabetes.