bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tbr2 Is Required to Generate a Neural Circuit Mediating the Pupillary Light Reflex
Authors: Sweeney Neal T. , Tierney Hannah , Feldheim David A.
Published: April 2014

There are ∼20 types of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in mice, each of which has distinct molecular, morphological, and physiological characteristics. Each RGC type sends axon projections to specific brain areas that execute light-dependent behaviors. Here, we show that the T-box transcription factor Tbr2 is required for the development of several RGC types that participate in non-image-forming circuits. These types are molecularly distinct, project to non-image-forming targets, and include intrinsically photosensitive RGCs. Tbr2 mutant mice have reduced retinal projections to non-image-forming nuclei and an attenuated pupillary light reflex. These data demonstrate that Tbr2 acts to execute RGC type choice and/or survival in a set of RGCs that mediates light-induced subconscious behaviors.
Different Neuronal Computations of Spatial Working Memory for Multiple Locations within versus across Visual Hemifields
Authors: Matsushima Ayano , Tanaka Masaki
Published: April 2014

Spatial working memory is one of the most studied cognitive functions, serving as a model system to decipher computational principles of the brain. Although neuronal mechanisms for remembering a single location have been well elucidated, little is known about memory for multiple locations. Here, we examined the activities of prefrontal neurons during monkeys remembered positions of one or two visual cue(s). When the two cues were presented across the left and right visual fields, neurons exhibited a comparable response to the activity for the preferred cue presented alone. When the two cues were presented within the same hemifield, neurons exhibited an intermediate response between those to the individual cues. Subsequent computer simulations predicted a lower signal-to-noise ratio in the latter condition, which was further verified by behavioral experiments. Considering the separation of contralateral and ipsilateral visual processing, the lateral inhibition in local circuits might implicitly determine different neuronal computations and memory capacities for bilateral and unilateral displays.
Transduction without Tip Links in Cochlear Hair Cells Is Mediated by Ion Channels with Permeation Properties Distinct from Those of the Mechano-Electrical Transducer Channel
Authors: Marcotti Walter , Corns Laura F. , Desmonds Terri , Kirkwood Nerissa K. , Richardson Guy P. , Kros Corné J.
Published: April 2014

Tip links between adjacent stereocilia are believed to gate mechano-electrical transducer (MET) channels and mediate the electrical responses of sensory hair cells. We found that mouse auditory hair cells that lack tip links due to genetic mutations or exposure to the Ca2+chelator BAPTA can, however, still respond to mechanical stimuli. These MET currents have unusual properties and are predominantly of the opposite polarity relative to those measured when tip links are present. There are other striking differences, for example, the channels are usually all closed when the hair cell is not stimulated and the currents in response to strong stimuli can be substantially larger than normal. These anomalous MET currents can also be elicited early in development, before the onset of mechano-electrical transduction with normal response polarity. Current–voltage curves of the anomalous MET currents are linear and do not show the rectification characteristic of normal MET currents. The permeant MET channel blocker dihydrostreptomycin is two orders of magnitude less effective in blocking the anomalous MET currents. The findings suggest the presence of a large population of MET channels with pore properties that are distinct from those of normal MET channels. These channels are not gated by hair-bundle links and can be activated under a variety of conditions in which normal tip-link-mediated transduction is not operational.
Myocilin Is Involved in NgR1/Lingo-1-Mediated Oligodendrocyte Differentiation and Myelination of the Optic Nerve
Authors: Kwon Heung Sun , Nakaya Naoki , Abu-Asab Mones , Kim Hong Sug , Tomarev Stanislav I.
Published: April 2014

Myocilin is a secreted glycoprotein that belongs to a family of olfactomedin domain-containing proteins. Although myocilin is detected in several ocular and nonocular tissues, the only reported human pathology related to mutations in theMYOCILINgene is primary open-angle glaucoma. Functions of myocilin are poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that myocilin is a mediator of oligodendrocyte differentiation and is involved in the myelination of the optic nerve in mice. Myocilin is expressed and secreted by optic nerve astrocytes. Differentiation of optic nerve oligodendrocytes is delayed inMyocilin-null mice. Optic nerves ofMyocilin-null mice contain reduced levels of several myelin-associated proteins including myelin basic protein, myelin proteolipid protein, and 2′3′-cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphodiesterase compared with those of wild-type littermates. This leads to reduced myelin sheath thickness of optic nerve axons inMyocilin-null mice compared with wild-type littermates, and this difference is more pronounced at early postnatal stages compared with adult mice. Myocilin also affects differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursorsin vitro. Its addition to primary cultures of differentiating oligodendrocyte precursors increases levels of tested markers of oligodendrocyte differentiation and stimulates elongation of oligodendrocyte processes. Myocilin stimulation of oligodendrocyte differentiation occurs through the NgR1/Lingo-1 receptor complex. Myocilin physically interacts with Lingo-1 and may be considered as a Lingo-1 ligand. Myocilin-induced elongation of oligodendrocyte processes may be mediated by activation of FYN and suppression of RhoA GTPase.
Cannabis Use Is Quantitatively Associated with Nucleus Accumbens and Amygdala Abnormalities in Young Adult Recreational Users
Authors: Gilman Jodi M. , Kuster John K. , Lee Sang , Lee Myung Joo , Kim Byoung Woo , Makris Nikos , van der Kouwe Andre , Blood Anne J. , Breiter Hans C.
Published: April 2014

Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States, but little is known about its effects on the human brain, particularly on reward/aversion regions implicated in addiction, such as the nucleus accumbens and amygdala. Animal studies show structural changes in brain regions such as the nucleus accumbens after exposure to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, but less is known about cannabis use and brain morphometry in these regions in humans. We collected high-resolution MRI scans on young adult recreational marijuana users and nonusing controls and conducted three independent analyses of morphometry in these structures: (1) gray matter density using voxel-based morphometry, (2) volume (total brain and regional volumes), and (3) shape (surface morphometry). Gray matter density analyses revealed greater gray matter density in marijuana users than in control participants in the left nucleus accumbens extending to subcallosal cortex, hypothalamus, sublenticular extended amygdala, and left amygdala, even after controlling for age, sex, alcohol use, and cigarette smoking. Trend-level effects were observed for a volume increase in the left nucleus accumbens only. Significant shape differences were detected in the left nucleus accumbens and right amygdala. The left nucleus accumbens showed salient exposure-dependent alterations across all three measures and an altered multimodal relationship across measures in the marijuana group. These data suggest that marijuana exposure, even in young recreational users, is associated with exposure-dependent alterations of the neural matrix of core reward structures and is consistent with animal studies of changes in dendritic arborization.
Environmental Acoustic Enrichment Promotes Recovery from Developmentally Degraded Auditory Cortical Processing
Authors: Zhu Xiaoqing , Wang Fang , Hu Huifang , Sun Xinde , Kilgard Michael P. , Merzenich Michael M. , Zhou Xiaoming
Published: April 2014

It has previously been shown that environmental enrichment can enhance structural plasticity in the brain and thereby improve cognitive and behavioral function. In this study, we reared developmentally noise-exposed rats in an acoustic-enriched environment for ∼4 weeks to investigate whether or not enrichment could restore developmentally degraded behavioral and neuronal processing of sound frequency. We found that noise-exposed rats had significantly elevated sound frequency discrimination thresholds compared with age-matched naive rats. Environmental acoustic enrichment nearly restored to normal the behavioral deficit resulting from early disrupted acoustic inputs. Signs of both degraded frequency selectivity of neurons as measured by the bandwidth of frequency tuning curves and decreased long-term potentiation of field potentials recorded in the primary auditory cortex of these noise-exposed rats also were reversed partially. The observed behavioral and physiological effects induced by enrichment were accompanied by recovery of cortical expressions of certain NMDA and GABAAreceptor subunits and brain-derived neurotrophic factor. These studies in a rodent model show that environmental acoustic enrichment promotes recovery from early noise-induced auditory cortical dysfunction and indicate a therapeutic potential of this noninvasive approach for normalizing neurological function from pathologies that cause hearing and associated language impairments in older children and adults.
The effect of media on domestic violence norms: Evidence from India
Authors: Bhushan Kuhuk , Singh Prakarsh
Published: April 2014

Greater access to media may influence norms about domestic violence. It may lead to greater acceptance of violence due to an increase in the incidence of violence or to lower acceptance due to a change in gender norms. Applying a difference-in-differences methodology to the National Family Health Survey, India (1998-99 and 2005-06), we find evidence that regularly accessing television and radio leads to a small but statistically significant reduction in the probability of women accepting domestic violence. The effect of regularly accessing both media is equivalent to the effect of three additional years of education on reducing acceptability of domestic violence. This suggests that increasing access to both media may lead to greater empowerment of women in India.
Preliminary Study on the Relation between the Coping Patterns and Mental Health of Radiation Control Personnel and Nondestructive Inspectors Engaged in the Periodic Inspections of Nuclear Power Plants
Authors: Nagaoka Chika , Uchida Yukiko
Published: April 2014

Preliminary Study on the Relation between the Coping Patterns and Mental Health of Radiation Control Personnel and Nondestructive Inspectors Engaged in the Periodic Inspections of Nuclear Power Plants: Chika NAGAOKA, et al. Department of Management, Otemon Gakuin University—

Objective

In order to safely manage nuclear power plants, their workforce should be mentally healthy. This study clarifies the coping strategies of radiation control personnel and nondestructive inspectors engaged in the periodic inspection of nuclear power plants, the effect of the coping strategies on their mental health, as well as any effect based on whether or not they had worked after the nuclear disaster caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami in March 2011.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was administered to 133 technicians attending a certification course, and among them, our subjects of analysis were 104 people with work experience in radiation control and/or nondestructive inspection.

Results

The results indicated that even among workers of the same company who were assigned to similar duties in the periodic inspections of nuclear power plants, the group that had worked at a nuclear plant after the disaster had a tendency to use coping strategies, such as giving up and avoidancelike thinking, which was dissimilar to the group that had not worked at a nuclear plant after the disaster. Further, the former group had higher levels of distress than those who tended to use other coping strategies. In addition, the results suggested that the plan‐drafting strategy adopted by the group that had not worked after the disaster did not result in stress reduction.

Discussion

Based on these results, we propose a stress management program specifically for radiation workers.
Photoluminescence Characterization of Phosphorus Diffusion and Hydrogenation in Continuous Wave Diode Laser Crystallized Si Thin-Film on Glass.
Authors: Jung Miga , Teal Anthony , Evans Rhett , Yun Jae Sung , Varlamov Sergey , Green Martin A.
Published: April 2014

In this paper, the effect of phosphorus diffusion and hydrogen passivation on the material properties of laser crystallised silicon on glass is investigated. Photoluminescence imaging, as well as Hall effect and Suns-Voc techniques are applied for the characterisation of laser crystallized silicon thin-film material properties. Hall effect as well as Suns-Voc measurements supports the photoluminescence imaging results; phosphorus diffusion and hydrogen passivation of laser crystallized films improves the overall material quality. Hydrogen passivation is more effective at improving the electronic properties of the laser crystallized films than phosphorus diffusion. Hydrogen passivated samples improved the photoluminescence intensity even further by a factor of 3. In addition, a correlation between photoluminescence intensity and open-circuit voltage is demonstrated: samples with highest photoluminescence intensity (1678 counts/s), gave the highest voltage (530 mV). Hall effect measurement shows a significant improvement in the bulk material, with carrier mobility increasing from 208 cm2/Vs to 488 cm2/Vs.
Visualising the New Oxford Circus junction in London, UK
Authors: Coupe Gavin , Greenwood Chris , Fraser Paul , Hinks Mark
Published: April 2014

This paper presents the development of a three-dimensional simulation of the Oxford Circus junction in London, UK to promote radical proposals for improving the junction, including diagonal pedestrian crossings. While the project team was confident the scheme would deliver benefits for pedestrians and make a step change in the quality of the public space, stakeholders and the general public needed to appreciate how the junction would perform on a day-to-day basis, as well as how much the public realm would be transformed. To achieve this, the project team produced a real-world animation featuring a three-dimensional simulation of the junction. Accurate movement of both people and vehicles through the space was achieved through the complex integration of a range of modelling software.
Photoactivity of Metal-Phenylporphyrins Adsorbed on TiO2 Under Visible Light Radiation: Influence of Central Metal
Authors: Granados-Oliveros Gilma , Ortega Fernando Martínez , Páez-Mozo Edgar , Ferronato Corinne , Chovelon Jean-Marc
Published: April 2014

A set of Co, Cu, Zn and metal-free phenylporphyrins were studied by spectroscopic (UV-vis, FTIR) and
quantum-chemical methods. The Q and Soret bands were identified in the UV-vis spectra of solid samples. In all the
complexes the frontier molecular orbitals (OMs) predict that the electronic processes sites are localized on the ligand
rather than in the metal atom. Metal ion has a largely influence on energy of OMs. The calculated values of electronic
transitions between the OMs are in good agreement with the UV-vis data. Phenyl porphyrins were attached onto TiO2 to
be evaluated as photocatalysts, under visible light irradiation. The interaction of porphyrins with TiO2 surface was
investigated using UV-vis and FT-IR spectroscopies and it was found that the dyes were adsorbed to the semiconductor
by carboxylate groups. Degradation of luminol and photooxidation of terephthalic acid to 2-hydroxyterephthalic acid
(TAOH) were employed as probe reactions. Luminol was degraded from 20 – 60% in presence of O2. In the same way,
the formation of TAOH values of comprises between 0.12 – 0.17 mM, in presence of H2O2 and O2 was obtained. It was
found that superoxide anion radicals (O2•_) are primarily formed and they are the precursor for the hydroxyl radicals
(•OH) production when H2O2 is added to suspension. Influence of metal on photoactivity was analyzed, specifically, in
terms of: the nature of metal (number of d electrons), photophysical properties and energies of frontier molecular orbitals
(OMs). Apparently, energy of OMs is an important factor which could affect photoactivity of sensitizers attached on TiO2
Thermal and Metallurgical Effects Associated with Gas Carburized and Induction Hardened Components
Authors: Palaniradja K. , Alagumurthi N. , Soundararajan V.
Published: April 2014

Dimensional distortion occurs due to the thermal and transformation stresses formed during the heat treatment processes. Taguchi and Factorial design of experiment concepts were applied to optimize the operating variables involved in the gas carburising and induction hardening processes so as to minimize the geometrical distortions. Experimental data obtained for the materials EN353, EN351, AISI 4140, and AISI 9255 were analyzed by Response graph method and Signal to Noise method. Even though, EN 351 and EN 353 are having the same carbon percentage, EN 353 gives minimal dimensional and volume changes because of the presence of three alloying elements namely cobalt, molybdenum and nickel. Analysis by variance (ANOVA) results indicated that the furnace temperature and quenching time in the gas carburising process were the variables which had more influence on distortion. The percentage deviations between the experimental and predicted results for the runout and helix variations were in the range of 7 to 10%.
Study on the Synthesis, Characterization of p-CuSCN/n-Si Heterojunction
Authors: Chao Xiong , Lei Chen , Hongchun Yuan
Published: April 2014

The p-CuSCN/n-Si heterojunction is fabricated by depositing CuSCN films on n-Si (111) films substrate using
successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SULAR). CuSCN films show 􀀂-phase structure by virtue of X-ray
diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy. ZnO/CuSCN heterojunctions exhibit good diode characteristics and photovoltaic effects
with illumination form its current-voltage (I-V) measurements. The linear relationship of 1/C2 versus voltage curve
implies that the built-in potential Vbi and the conduction band offset of the heterojunctions were found to be 2.1eV and
1.5eV, respectively. The forward conduction is determined by trap-assisted space charge limited current mechanism. At
forward bias voltages, the electronic potential barrier is larger than holes in the p-CuSCN/n-Si heterojunction interface. In
this voltage area, a single carrier injuction is induced and the main current of p-CuSCN/n-Si heterojunction is hole
current. In addition, a band diagram of ZnO/CuSCN heterojunctions is also proposed to explain the transport mechanism.
This heterojunction diode can be well used to light emission devices and photovoltaic devices.
Size and Shape of TBM Debris Estimated by the Nishimatsu's Cutting- Resistance Equation
Authors: Okubo S. , Fukui K. , Chen W.
Published: April 2014

Information concerning the size and shape of tunnel boring machine (TBM) debris is essential for designing
efficient loading, hauling and dumping systems for TBM excavation. It is also very important in deciding how to recycle
the TBM debris. However, only very limited information is available at present, and theoretical or calculation methods
to estimate the size and shape are still open to discussion. In this paper, the size and shape of TBM debris are estimated
by the well-known Nishimatsu's equation that is usually applied to roadheaders or shield-type machines with chisel bits.
In this study, the equation was applied to the case of TBM excavation with disc cutters in which the shear failure or plane
extends from a new groove to an adjacent pre-existing one. The estimated size and shape of TBM debris were found to be
consistent with the measured results. Side forces applied to a disc cutter and the resultant stress on the cutter were considered.
The maximum debris size encountered in tunnel excavation was also discussed assuming that it followed the Gumbel
distribution. The results suggest that the proposed approach based on Nishimatsu's equation shows potential for future
study.
A Critical Review of Nuisance Foam Formation and Biological Methods for Foam Management or Elimination in Nutrient Removal Facilities
Authors: Parker Denny , Bratby John , Esping Don , Hull Ted , Kelly Rick , Melcer Henryk , Merlo Rion , Pope Rod , Shafer Todd , Wahlberg Eric , Witzgall Robert
Published: April 2014

The classifying selector was introduced to the wastewater industry in 2001, after several successful full‐scale applications. The classifying selector concept distinguishes itself from the earlier surface foam wasting schemes in that negative selection pressure is maintained so that nuisance foam‐causing organisms cannot gain a foothold in sufficient numbers to cause nuisance foams. The propensity of the nuisance‐causing organism to attach to bubbles and establish a rising velocity is used to enrich them in a surface mixed liquor layer, where they are wasted. Neither standard texts nor the Water Environment Federation's Manuals of Practice adequately describe this, and as a result, the benefits of foam elimination obtainable through use of the classifying selector concepts have not been broadly obtained in our industry. In certain types of processes that are inherently foam trapping situations, the only solution is surface foam wasting, as foam cannot be eliminated. Potential efficiency gains possible in these situations are addressed.
Age Differences in Expected Satisfaction with Life in Retirement
Authors: Gutierrez Helen C. , Hershey Douglas A.
Published: April 2014

Research on expected quality of life in retirement has focused on the perceptions of individuals either living in retirement or nearing retirement age. In this article, data are reported that examine expectations of (future) retirement quality of life among younger and middle-aged adults. Toward this end, a new scale–the Satisfaction with Life in Retirement Scale–is introduced. As part of the study, a pair of age-specific, theoretically-driven, hierarchically-structured path models were tested in which individuals' perceptions of future retirement satisfaction were regressed on indicators of financial knowledge, future time perspective, financial risk tolerance, and parental financial values. Models from both age groups were successful in accounting for variability in perceptions of future retirement satisfaction; however, age differences in the model were observed. The results of this investigation have implications for retirement counselors and intervention specialists who seek to cultivate positive perceptions of late life among individuals of different ages.
A Structured Reading Materials-Based Intervention Program to Develop the Psychological Capital of Chinese Employees
Authors: Zhang Xichao , Li Yan-Ling , Ma Shuang , Hu Jing , Jiang Li
Published: April 2014

In this study we introduced an easy-to-use, structured reading materials-based psychological capital (PsyCap) intervention program, and examined its effectiveness with a sample of 234 employees in China. The results at posttest showed that PsyCap and job performance of the intervention
group significantly increased after the program, whereas they remained unchanged in the control group. These results support the effectiveness of the intervention program, and confirm that PsyCap can be developed. Analyses of follow-up retest scores taken 3 months after the program was conducted
showed that overall PsyCap, hope, and job performance were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the pretest group. Furthermore, the program control group's PsyCap and job performance retest scores were significantly lower than their pretest scores. The results suggest a long-lasting,
though not robust, effect of the intervention.
Novel methylene bridged ethylenediamine-type ligands: Synthesis and spectral characterization
Authors: Mihajlovic-Lalic Ljiljana , Savic Aleksandar , Bradjan Gabrijela , Sabo Tibor , Grguric-Sipka Sanja
Published: April 2014

Herein we report the synthesis of two new organic compounds, diisobutyl- and
diisopentyl
N,N?-methylene-(S,S)-ethylenediamine-N,N?-di-2-(3-cyclohexyl)propanoate. A
one-pot procedure was carried out by adding the reducing agent and carbonyl
compound into the methanol solution of the parent compounds (iso-butyl and
iso-pentyl esters of (S,S)-ethylenediamine-N,N?-di-2-(3-cyclohexyl)propanoic
acid) in appropriate stoichiometric ratios. The compounds were fully
characterized by infrared, ESI-MS, 1D (1H, 13C) and 2D (COSY, HSQC, HMBC) NMR
spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The spectral data confirm the presence
of -CH2- group introduced between nitrogen atoms of the ethylenediamine
moiety revealing neutral form of potential bidentate ligand.
Osteosarcoma following tibial plateau leveling osteotomy in dogs: 29 cases (1997–2011)
Authors: Selmic Laura E. , Ryan Stewart D. , Boston Sarah E. , Liptak Julius M. , Culp William T. N. , Sartor Angela J. , Prpich Cassandra Y. , Withrow Stephen J.
Published: April 2014

Objective—To determine the signalment, tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) plate type, clinical staging information, treatment, and oncological outcome in dogs that developed osteosarcoma at the proximal aspect of the tibia following TPLO and to calculate the interval between TPLO and osteosarcoma diagnosis.

Design—Multi-institutional retrospective case series.

Animals—29 dogs.

Procedures—Medical records from 8 participating institutions were searched for dogs that developed osteosarcoma (confirmed through cytologic or histologic evaluation) at previous TPLO sites. Signalment, TPLO details, staging tests, treatment data, and outcome information were recorded. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and disease-free intervals and survival times were evaluated by means of Kaplan-Meier analysis.

Results—29 dogs met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 9.2 years and mean weight was 45.1 kg (99.2 lb) at the time of osteosarcoma diagnosis. Most dogs had swelling over the proximal aspect of the tibia (17/21) and lameness of the affected limb (28/29). The mean interval between TPLO and osteosarcoma diagnosis was 5.3 years. One type of cast stainless steel TPLO plate was used in most (18) dogs; the remaining dogs had received plates of wrought stainless steel (n = 4) or unrecorded type (7). Twenty-three of 29 dogs underwent treatment for osteosarcoma. Median survival time for 10 dogs that underwent amputation of the affected limb and received ≥ 1 chemotherapeutic treatment was 313 days.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results supported that osteosarcoma should be a differential diagnosis for dogs with a history of TPLO that later develop lameness and swelling at the previous surgical site. Oncological outcome following amputation and chemotherapy appeared to be similar to outcomes previously reported for dogs with appendicular osteosarcoma.
A cohomological index of Fuller type for parameterized set-valued maps in normed spaces
Authors: Skiba Robert
Published: April 2014

We construct a cohomological index of the Fuller type for set-valued flows in normed linear spaces satisfying the properties of existence, excision, additivity, homotopy and topological invariance. In particular, the constructed index detects periodic orbits and stationary points of set-valued dynamical systems, i.e., those generated by differential inclusions. The basic methods to calculate the index are also presented.
Statistical Large-Break LOCA analysis for PWRs with combined ECC injection
Authors: Seeberger G.-J. , Pauli E.-M. , Trewin R. , Zeisler L.-P.
Published: April 2014

A statistical analysis methodology based on the code scaling, applicability and uncertainty (CSAU) evaluation approach for predicting the safety margin in case of a postulated large-break loss-of-coolant accident (LBLOCA) in a pressurized-water reactor (PWR) was developed by AREVA. All expected LBLOCA phenomena are listed in the Phenomena Identification and Ranking Table (PIRT) and are prioritized according to their importance on the figure of merit, here the fuel rod peak cladding temperature (PCT). For the high-ranked phenomena parameters are identified, which allow a quantification of the analysis uncertainty. AREVA has updated the PIRT to the state of the art and extended it to the application to pressurized-water reactors with combined emergency core cooling injection of German-type PWRs. This paper describes how the uncertainty distributions, required for a statistical analysis, have been derived and presents the result of an exemplary statistical analysis for a German-type 4-loop plant compared to that of a conservative deterministic analysis.
Explicit formulation of a nodal transport method for discrete ordinates calculations in two-dimensional fixed-source problems
Authors: Tres A. , Picoloto C. B. , Filho J. F. Prolo , da Cunha R. D. , Barichello L. B.
Published: April 2014

In this work a study of two-dimensional fixed-source neutron transport problems, in Cartesian geometry, is reported. The approach reduces the complexity of the multidimensional problem using a combination of nodal schemes and the Analytical Discrete Ordinates Method (ADO). The unknown leakage terms on the boundaries that appear from the use of the derivation of the nodal scheme are incorporated to the problem source term, such as to couple the one-dimensional integrated solutions, made explicit in terms of the x and y spatial variables. The formulation leads to a considerable reduction of the order of the associated eigenvalue problems when combined with the usual symmetric quadratures, thereby providing solutions that have a higher degree of computational efficiency. Reflective-type boundary conditions are introduced to represent the domain on a simpler form than that previously considered in connection with the ADO method. Numerical results obtained with the technique are provided and compared to those present in the literature.
Policymaking in the Italian Courts
Authors: Anaya Lauren A.
Published: April 2014

In this article, I use the current struggle over recognition of rights for same-sex couples in Italy as a window on larger policymaking processes. Associazione Radicale Certi Diritti is leading the charge for the recognition of rights for same-sex couples in Italy with its innovative national campaign Affermazione Civile that seeks to obtain marriage equality for same-sex couples in Italy through the deployment of judicial initiatives. Through the Affermazione Civile project, Italian LGBTI rights activists successfully circumvent national politics and advance recognition of same-sex couples' rights in Italy. I argue that recent policy changes with respect to the treatment of this group are direct products of the EU's influence on the national judicial system and demonstrate a continuing trend towards increased judicial activism at the expense of national politics. This article illustrates how the EU influences the making of national public policy outside the economic realm in unanticipated and unintended ways.
Platelet-mediated changes to neuronal glutamate receptor expression at sites of microthrombosis following experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Bell Joshua D. , Thomas Theresa Currier , Lass Elliot , Ai Jinglu , Wan Hoyee , Lifshitz Jonathan , Baker Andrew J. , Macdonald R. Loch
Published: April 2014

Object

Glutamate is important in the pathogenesis of brain damage after cerebral ischemia and traumatic brain injury. Notably, brain extracellular and cerebrospinal fluid as well as blood glutamate concentrations increase after experimental and clinical trauma. While neurons are one potential source of glutamate, platelets also release glutamate as part of their recruitment and might mediate neuronal damage. This study investigates the hypothesis that platelet microthrombi release glutamate that mediates excitotoxic brain injury and neuron dysfunction after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).

Methods

The authors used two models, primary neuronal cultures exposed to activated platelets, as well as a whole-animal SAH preparation. Propidium iodide was used to evaluate neuronal viability, and surface glutamate receptor staining was used to evaluate the phenotype of platelet-exposed neurons.

Results

The authors demonstrate that thrombin-activated platelet-rich plasma releases glutamate, at concentrations that can exceed 300 μM. When applied to neuronal cultures, this activated plasma is neurotoxic, and the toxicity is attenuated in part by glutamate receptor antagonists. The authors also demonstrate that exposure to thrombin-activated platelets induces marked downregulation of the surface glutamate receptor glutamate receptor 2, a marker of excitotoxicity exposure and a possible mechanism of neuronal dysfunction. Linear regression demonstrated that 7 days after SAH in rats there was a strong correlation between proximity to microthrombi and reduction of surface glutamate receptors.

Conclusions

The authors conclude that platelet-mediated microthrombosis contributes to neuronal glutamate receptor dysfunction and might mediate brain injury after SAH.
Ceftriaxone Associated Biliary Sludge in Children - A Study in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University
Authors: Alam M Kabir , Karim ASM Baslul , Kabir Mosha Hafsa , Huque Syed Saimul , Samsuzzaman M
Published: April 2014

Background: Ceftriaxone is known to induce reversible precipitations, called billiary sludge or pseudolithiasis in the gall bladder.Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of biliary sludge and factors that contribute to this side effect in children. Methodology: This study was conducted on 50 consecutive children who were admitted at paediatric department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) for different illness and who received ceftriaxone in different dosage and duration. Ultraso-nography of hepatobiliary system was done before and at the end of therapy. Children who developed biliary sludge, a third ultrasonography was done after one month. Results: Biliary sludge was found in 4 (08%) of 50 children which resolved within 30 days of cessation of therapy. The mean dose and duration of ceftriaxone in these four children were 92.5±9.6 mg/kg/day and 8.0±2.0 days respectively while it was 78.5±5.2 mg/kg/day and 6.1±1.2 days respectively rest 46 children who did not develop biliary sludge (p<0.05). The mean age of children in sludge formation group was 8.3±2.1 years while it was 5.6±1.6 years in the normal group (p<0.05). Conclusion: Biliary sludge was found in older children who got higher doses of ceftriaxone for a longer period and it was reversible in all the studied children. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v37i3.18617 Bangladesh J Child Health 2013; Vol.37(3): 142-145
Hematuria Due to Leech Bite in the Urinary Bladder: A Case Report
Authors: Ahmmad BE Nazir , Uddin Soharab , Rumi Ahsanullah
Published: April 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjch.v37i3.18624 Bangladesh J Child Health 2013; Vol.37(3): 183-185
Anesthesia and the Developing Brain: Relevance to the Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Wise-Faberowski Lisa , Quinonez Zoel , Hammer Gregory
Published: April 2014

Anesthetic neurotoxicity has been a hot topic in anesthesia for the past decade. It is of special interest to pediatric anesthesiologists. A subgroup of children potentially at greater risk for anesthetic neurotoxicity, based on a prolonged anesthetic exposure early in development, are those children receiving anesthesia for surgical repair of congenital heart disease. These children have a known risk of neurologic deficit after cardiopulmonary bypass for surgical repair of congenital heart disease. Yet, the type of anesthesia used has not been considered as a potential etiology for their neurologic deficits. These children not only receive prolonged anesthetic exposure during surgical repair, but also receive repeated anesthetic exposures during a critical period of brain development. Their propensity to abnormal brain development, as a result of congenital heart disease, may modify their risk of anesthetic neurotoxicity. This review article provides an overview of anesthetic neurotoxicity from the perspective of a pediatric cardiac anesthesiologist and provides insight into basic science and clinical investigations as it relates to this unique group of children who have been studied over several decades for their risk of neurologic injury.
Food Craving and Its Relationship with Restriction and Liking in Japanese Females
Authors: Komatsu Sakura , Aoyama Kenjiro
Published: April 2014

Craved foods are thought to be those that are well liked but restricted. However, this claim has not been demonstrated empirically. Japanese female undergraduate students (n = 144) completed a questionnaire measuring their craving for, degree of liking, and frequency of restricting their eating of 47 widely consumed foods. The food with the highest mean craving score was rice. We plotted the craving scores as a function of restriction and liking scores for the 47 foods. The students’ craving scores were strongly correlated with their restriction scores and liking scores. Thus, craved foods are those that are restricted and liked. However, in both scatter plots, rice was an outlier. While it was the most craved food, neither the restriction nor liking score of rice was very high. These findings were consistent with the view that craved foods are generally liked, yet restricted, implying the generation of food related conflicts. Interestingly, the mechanism of craving rice, the main staple in Japan, may differ from other foods.
A Survey of the Perception of Comprehensiveness among Dentists in a Large Brazilian City
Authors: Mattos Grazielle , Sirineu Cleiton , Teixeira Bruno , Gallagher Jennifer , Paiva Saul , Abreu Mauro
Published: April 2014

Objectives: To quantitatively identify the perception of dentists regarding comprehensiveness and its domains of “patient welcoming”, “bonding” and “quality of care” in primary dental care settings of a large Brazilian city. Methods: A questionnaire was administered to all dentists comprising the primary health care service to Belo Horizonte with tenured jobs and 40 work hours per week, totalling a population of 207 professionals. The response rate was 90.34%. A pilot test was conducted with 44 dentists working in primary care for at least two years and who did not participate in the main study. Descriptive statistical analysis involved calculating proportions. No confidence intervals were calculated because this was a census study. Results: In most items (79.0%), professionals’ perceptions about the comprehensiveness were overwhelmingly positive. When we stratified the analysis by domain and checked those items about which dentists had a less favourable perception, 22.7% were in the patient welcoming domain, 25.0% were in the bonding domain and 12.5% were in quality of care. Conclusions: Comprehensiveness, as an approach in health care practice, needs to be enhanced, and there is evidence that these dentists are aware of its importance.
Rhagoletis cerasi: Oviposition Reduction Effects of Oil Products
Authors: Daniel Claudia
Published: April 2014

The European cherry fruit fly, Rhagoletis cerasi (L.) (Diptera: Tephritidae), is a highly destructive pest. Methods to control it are limited and alternatives are needed. Observations of cherry fruit flies suggest that females exert much effort to penetrate cherries at color change stage (from green to yellow) for oviposition. Therefore, the question arose as to whether a physical barrier on the fruit surface could reduce oviposition. The effects of different commercial horticultural oil products on R. cerasi oviposition were evaluated in a series of laboratory, semi-field and field experiments. In the laboratory experiments, the rate of successful oviposition on fruits treated with 0.25% v/v of the rapeseed oil product Telmion was significantly reduced by 90% compared to the untreated control. In semi-field experiments, deposits of 1% of rapeseed, mineral and paraffinic oil significantly reduced oviposition for up to 3 days. Semi-field experiments indicated that the oil products lose efficacy within 3 to 6 days after application due to degradation. Although treatments with the rapeseed oil product Telmion reduced infestation rates in an on-farm field experiment, the infested fruit clearly exceeded the level of market tolerance of 2%. Further research is needed to assess whether combinations of oil products, higher application rates and different formulations might improve field efficacy.
Cortical Volume Alterations in Conduct Disordered Adolescents with and without Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Olvera Rene , Glahn David , O'Donnell Louise , Bearden Carrie , Soares Jair , Winkler Anderson , Pliszka Steven
Published: April 2014

Background: There is increasing evidence that bipolar disorder (BD) and conduct disorder (CD) are co-occurring disorders. Magnetic resonance imaging has revealed differences in the structure and function of the frontal cortex in these disorders when studied separately; however, the impact of BD comorbidity on brain structure in adolescents with CD has not yet been examined. Method: We conducted an optimized voxel based morphometry (VBM) study of juvenile offenders with the following diagnoses: conduct disorder with comorbid bipolar disorder (CD-BD; n = 24), conduct disorder without bipolar disorder (CD; n = 24) and healthy controls (HC, n = 24). Participants were 13–17 years of age, in a residential treatment facility for repeat offenders. The three groups in this study were similar in age, gender, socioeconomic status and ethnicity. Results: We found CD-BD subjects had decreased volume relative to controls at the voxel level in the right medial prefrontal cortex (PFC). Using a Threshold-Free Cluster Enhancement (TFCE) technique, the CD-BD subjects had significantly decreased volumes of the right medial prefrontal cortex and portions of the superior and inferior frontal gyrus, anterior cingulate and temporal gyrus. The CD subjects did not have differences in brain volume compared to control subjects or CD-BD subjects. Conclusions: Our findings suggest the comorbidity between CD and BD is associated with neurobiological impact namely volumetric differences from healthy controls. Furthermore subjects with this comorbidity had poorer lifetime functioning, more mood and attentional dysfunction, and more medication exposure than subjects with CD who were not BD.
Pharmacological and Structure-Activity Relationship Evaluation of 4-aryl-1-Diphenylacetyl(thio)semicarbazides
Authors: Wujec Monika , Kędzierska Ewa , Kuśmierz Edyta , Plech Tomasz , Wróbel Andrzej , Paneth Agata , Orzelska Jolanta , Fidecka Sylwia , Paneth Piotr
Published: April 2014

This article describes the synthesis of six 4-aryl-(thio)semicarbazides (series a and b) linked with diphenylacetyl moiety along with their pharmacological evaluation on the central nervous system in mice and computational studies, including conformational analysis and electrostatic properties. All thiosemicarbazides (series b) were found to exhibit strong antinociceptive activity in the behavioural model. Among them, compound 1-diphenylacetyl-4-(4-methylphenyl)thiosemicarbazide 1b was found to be the most potent analgesic agent, whose activity is connected with the opioid system. For compounds from series a significant anti-serotonergic effect, especially for compound 1-diphenylacetyl-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)semicarbazide 2b was observed. The computational studies strongly support the obtained results.
Exploring the Phe-Gly Dipeptide-Derived Piperazinone Scaffold in the Search for Antagonists of the Thrombin Receptor PAR1
Authors: Valdivielso Ángel , García-López M. , Gutiérrez-Rodríguez Marta , Herranz Rosario
Published: April 2014

A series of Phe-Gly dipeptide-derived piperazinones containing an aromatic urea moiety and a basic amino acid has been synthesized and evaluated as inhibitors of human platelet aggregation induced by the PAR1 agonist SFLLRN and as cytotoxic agents in human cancer cells. The synthetic strategy involves coupling of a protected basic amino acid benzyl amide to 1,2- and 1,2,4-substituted-piperazinone derivatives, through a carbonylmethyl group at the N1-position, followed by formation of an aromatic urea at the exocyclic moiety linked at the C2 position of the piperazine ring and removal of protecting groups. None of the compounds showed activity in the biological evaluation.
Buddhist Mind and Matter
Authors: Cho Francisca
Published: April 2014

Classic Buddhist thought understands the mind as arising in dependence on the body. This causal dependence may be fashioned as a kind of “Buddhist materialism”. However, this should not be confused with any variety of scientific materialism, in which ontological and/or causal reductions of mind to brain affirm matter as the fundamental entity or property. Buddhist materialism, in contrast, is a purely phenomenological description that rejects both “mind” and “matter” as entities possessing substance or essential natures. This view questions the presumption that matter is external, real, and scientifically accessible, whereas mind is internal, subjective, and harder to empirically observe. Instead, perceptions of mind and matter are understood to be different kinds of experiences of equal phenomenological reality.
IMU-Based Joint Angle Measurement for Gait Analysis
Authors: Seel Thomas , Raisch Jörg , Schauer Thomas
Published: April 2014

This contribution is concerned with joint angle calculation based on inertial measurement data in the context of human motion analysis. Unlike most robotic devices, the human body lacks even surfaces and right angles. Therefore, we focus on methods that avoid assuming certain orientations in which the sensors are mounted with respect to the body segments. After a review of available methods that may cope with this challenge, we present a set of new methods for: (1) joint axis and position identification; and (2) flexion/extension joint angle measurement. In particular, we propose methods that use only gyroscopes and accelerometers and, therefore, do not rely on a homogeneous magnetic field. We provide results from gait trials of a transfemoral amputee in which we compare the inertial measurement unit (IMU)-based methods to an optical 3D motion capture system. Unlike most authors, we place the optical markers on anatomical landmarks instead of attaching them to the IMUs. Root mean square errors of the knee flexion/extension angles are found to be less than 1° on the prosthesis and about 3° on the human leg. For the plantar/dorsiflexion of the ankle, both deviations are about 1°.