bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Derrida's “Antigonanette”: On the Quasi‐Transcendental
Authors: Kramer Sina
Published: December 2014

In this article, I rely both on Derrida's 1974 work Glas, as well as Derrida's 1971–72 lecture course, “La famille de Hegel,” to argue that the concept of the quasi‐transcendental is central to Derrida's reading of Hegel and to trace its implications beyond the Hegelian system. I follow Derrida's analysis of the role of Antigone—or, as the lecture course has it, “Antigonanette”—in Hegel's thought to argue that the quasi‐transcendental indicates a re(con)striction of empirical difference into the transcendental, which is thereby only ever provisionally transcendental. I then argue that the economy of difference indicated by the quasi‐transcendental is neither a general economy, nor is it in each case singular, but rather it ambivalently oscillates between these two. Finally, I treat the temporality of the quasi‐transcendental, arguing that the economy of difference indicated by the quasi‐transcendental is not prior to the re(con)striction of empirical difference, but is paradoxically produced by it by being retroactively constituted. I take up this analysis for the sake of describing what I contend is the quasi‐transcendental structure of constitutive exclusion, a way of understanding the conceptual structure of political bodies, and the political structure of concepts.
Introducing ‘Seeds of Change’ into the Food System? Localisation Strategies in the Swiss Dairy Industry
Authors: Forney Jérémie , Häberli Isabel
Published: December 2014

TheSwiss dairy‐farming sector faces challenging times after the removal of milk quotas. In this context, several cooperative and federative structures have developed new strategies to improve the situation of dairy farmers. Local products play an important role in these strategies. Based on ethnographic work, this article looks at the social construction and negotiation of ‘the local’ in three case studies. Firstly, we show what diverging geographical and moral definitions of the local emerge from the development of these localised food networks. Then we look at how the various moralities of the local in turn contribute to the transformation of the actors' position in the broader food system. Finally, we argue that apparently narrow economic strategies might open new paths for more transformative developments based on alternative values such as regional development, solidarity and identity.
Kinetically Distinct Sorting Pathways through the Golgi Exhibit Different Requirements for Arf1
Authors: Whitt Michael A. , Cox Michelle E. , Kansal Rita , Cox John V.
Published: December 2014

To investigate the role of cytoplasmic sequences in directing transmembrane protein trafficking through the Golgi, we analyzed the sorting of VSV tsO45 G fusions with either the native G cytoplasmic domain (G) or an alternative cytoplasmic tail derived from the chicken AE1‐4 anion exchanger (GAE). At restrictive temperature GAE and G accumulated in the ER, and upon shifting the cells to permissive temperature both proteins folded and underwent transport through the Golgi. However, GAE and G did not form hetero‐oligomers upon the shift to permissive temperature and they progressed through the Golgi with distinct kinetics. In addition, the transport of G through the proximal Golgi was Arf1 and COPI‐dependent, while GAE progression through the proximal Golgi was Arf1 and COPI‐independent. Although Arf1 did not regulate the sorting of GAE in the cis‐Golgi, Arf1 did regulate the exit of GAE from the TGN. The trafficking of GAE through the Golgi was similar to that of the native AE1‐4 anion exchanger, in that the progression of both proteins through the proximal Golgi was Arf1‐independent, while both required Arf1 to exit the TGN. We propose that the differential recognition of cytosolic signals in membrane‐spanning proteins by the Arf1‐dependent sorting machinery may influence the rate at which cargo progresses through the Golgi.
Business continuity in blood services: two case studies from events with potentially catastrophic effect on the national provision of blood components
Authors: Morgan S. J. , Rackham R. A. , Penny S. , Lawson J. R. , Walsh R. J. , Ismay S. L.
Published: December 2014

Background and Objectives

NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) and the Australian Red Cross Blood Service (ARCBS) are national blood establishments providing blood components to England and North Wales, and Australia, respectively. In 2012, both services experienced potentially catastrophic challenges to key assets. NHSBT suffered a flood that closed the largest blood‐manufacturing centre in Europe, whilst ARCBS experienced the failure of a data centre network switch that rendered the national blood management system inaccessible for 42 h. This paper describes both crisis events, including the immediate actions, recovery procedures and lessons learned.

Materials and Methods

Both incidents triggered emergency response plans. These included hospital reprovisioning and recovery from the incident. Once normal services had been restored, both events were subjected to root cause analysis (RCA) and production of ‘lessons learned’ reports.

Results

In both scenarios, the key enablers of rapid recovery were established emergency plans, clear leadership and the support of a flexible workforce. Product issues to hospitals were unaffected, and there were no abnormal trends in hospital complaints. RCA identified the importance of risk mitigations that require co‐operation with external organizations. Reviews of both events identified opportunities to enhance business resilience through prior identification of external risks and improvements to contingency plans, for example by implementing mass messaging to staff and other stakeholders.

Conclusions

Blood establishment emergency plans tend to focus on responding to mass casualty events. However, consolidation of manufacturing to fewer sites combined with a reliance on national IT systems increases the impact of loss of function. Blood services should develop business continuity plans which include prevention of such losses, and the maintenance of services and disaster recovery.
Factors Associated with the Inappropriate Use of Antimicrobials
Authors: McIntosh W. , Dean W.
Published: December 2014

Antimicrobial resistance continues to grow and antimicrobial use in food animal production and to a lesser extent in human patients is under fire. Much of the criticism has to do with the misapplication of these drugs in both settings. Research indicates that patients, food animal producers, physicians and veterinarians have all played a part in misusing antimicrobials, often because of mistaken beliefs. This paper reviews this research and introduces a theoretical perspective, the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), which broadens our understanding of the motivations for misuse. In particular this approach shows that individuals making decisions about antimicrobial use take into account social pressures from and a sense of obligation to significant others in their social networks. Our own work summarized in this paper indicates that both feedlot veterinarians and feedlot managers’ antimicrobial decisions are influenced by both expectations from and obligations to a variety of actors in the feedlot network (other veterinarians, feedlot clients, consumers, pharmaceutical companies, and regulatory bodies). Generally across 4 circumstances of antimicrobial use (for acutely sick cattle, chronically‐sick cattle, at‐risk cattle, high‐risk cattle), it is largely the perception that peers and clients expect feedlot veterinarians to use antimicrobials and feedlot veterinarians sense of obligation to these groups that have the most influence on their decisions to recommend antimicrobials. Based on these findings, the question of engaging in changing the choices made by those working with food animals must start with those who influence the decision to proscribe or use antimicrobials. As our data come from the United States and may be unique relative to other countries, these efforts should begin by ascertaining who influences these decisions. The next step is to then change the beliefs of these significant others.
Characterization of Ru thin films from a novel CVD/atomic layer deposition precursor “Rudense” for capping layer of Cu interconnects
Authors: Maniwa Atsushi , Chiba Hirokazu , Kawano Kazuhisa , Koiso Naoyuki , Oike Hiroyuki , Furukawa Taishi , Tada Ken-ichi
Published: December 2014

The authors have succeeded in development of a novel Ru precursor, Ru(EtCp)(η5-CH2C(Me)CHC(Me)O) [Rudense], for CVD and atomic layer deposition (ALD) processes under nonoxidative condition. Rudense has sufficient vapor pressure and good thermal stability (decomposition temperature = ca. 230 °C). Ru thin films were grown on Pt, Ru, Si, and SiO2 substrates using Rudense and NH3 as Ru precursor and reactant, respectively. Rudense gave the conformal, low-impurity (<1021 atoms/cc), and low-resistivity (16 μΩ cm) Ru thin films. Moreover, Rudense showed substrate selectivity; therefore, Rudense will be a candidate for area-selective CVD and ALD precursor for Ru capping layers of Cu interconnects.
Inhibition of LSD1 reduces herpesvirus infection, shedding, and recurrence by promoting epigenetic suppression of viral genomes
Authors: Hill James M. , Quenelle Debra C. , Cardin Rhonda D. , Vogel Jodi L. , Clement Christian , Bravo Fernando J. , Foster Timothy P. , Bosch-Marce Marta , Raja Priya , Lee Jennifer S. , Bernstein David I. , Krause Philip R. , Knipe David M. , Kristie Thomas M.
Published: December 2014

Epigenetic suppression of herpes simplex virus demonstrates an approach to control persistent viruses.
Filled with Evil: Molecular Signatures of Tumor-Associated Immune Cells
Authors: Sun Jie
Published: December 2014

Molecular profiling unveils how monocytes and macrophages in human renal cancers contribute to tumor progression.
The Clot Thickens…
Authors: Spiller Kara L.
Published: December 2014

Ultra-deformable synthetic platelets stop bleeding in minutes.
Morphing Cell Identity to Treat Diabetes
Authors: Tesar Paul J.
Published: December 2014

An optimized protocol enables in vivo conversion of pancreatic acinar cells to functional pancreatic beta cells with implications for treating diabetes.
Watch Your Leftovers: Remnant Cholesterol Brings Oversized Risk to Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Drum Chester L.
Published: December 2014

A large-scale analysis of a Copenhagen cohort reveals mediators of cardiovascular risk for obese individuals.
Azathioprine-induced hepatitis and cholestasis occurring 1 year after treatment
Authors: Chertoff Jason , Alam Sabikha , Black Michael , Elgendy Islam Y
Published: December 2014

Azathioprine is an immunosuppressive medication used in the management of many autoimmune conditions. Commonly reported adverse effects from azathioprine therapy are nausea and bone marrow suppression, while less common side effects include hepatotoxicity. We present the case of a 47-year-old man with a history of myasthenia gravis on azathioprine for 1 year, who presented to our institution with painless jaundice. On initial laboratory evaluation, the level of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and total bilirubin were markedly elevated. Owing to the potential diagnosis of acute liver failure secondary to azathioprine toxicity, this medication was discontinued. A liver biopsy demonstrating drug-induced liver injury, along with high serum levels of 6-methylmercaptopurine nucleotide confirmed the diagnosis of azathioprine-induced hepatotoxicity. Upon discontinuation of the medication, the patient's transaminases and bilirubin levels improved steadily over the four-day hospital course. This case emphasises azathioprine's potential for hepatotoxicity, even 1 year after the initiation of its use.
Spatial variation of heart failure and air pollution in Warwickshire, UK: an investigation of small scale variation at the ward-level
Authors: Bennett Oscar , Kandala Ngianga-Bakwin , Ji Chen , Linnane John , Clarke Aileen
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To map using geospatial modelling techniques the morbidity and mortality caused by heart failure within Warwickshire to characterise and quantify any influence of air pollution on these risks.

Design

Cross-sectional.

Setting

Warwickshire, UK.

Participants

Data from all of the 105 current Warwickshire County wards were collected on hospital admissions and deaths due to heart failure.

Results

In multivariate analyses, the presence of higher mono-nitrogen oxide (NOx) in a ward (3.35:1.89, 4.99), benzene (Ben) (31.9:8.36, 55.85) and index of multiple deprivation (IMD; 0.02: 0.01, 0.03), were consistently associated with a higher risk of heart failure morbidity. Particulate matter (Pm; −12.93: −20.41, −6.54) was negatively associated with the risk of heart failure morbidity. No association was found between sulfur dioxide (SO2) and heart failure morbidity. The risk of heart failure mortality was higher in wards with a higher NOx (4.30: 1.68, 7.37) and wards with more inhabitants 50+ years old (1.60: 0.47, 2.92). Pm was negatively associated (−14.69: −23.46, −6.50) with heart failure mortality. SO2, Ben and IMD scores were not associated with heart failure mortality. There was a prominent variation in heart failure morbidity and mortality risk across wards, the highest risk being in the regions around Nuneaton and Bedworth.

Conclusions

This study showed distinct spatial patterns in heart failure morbidity and mortality, suggesting the potential role of environmental factors beyond individual-level risk factors. Air pollution levels should therefore be taken into account when considering the wider determinants of public health and the impact that changes in air pollution might have on the health of a population.
Protocol for REducing Anti-Psychotic use in residential care-Huntington Disease (REAP-HD): a pilot cluster randomised controlled trial of a multifaceted intervention for health professionals
Authors: Loy Clement T , Hayen Andrew , McKinnon Colleen
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Antipsychotics are commonly used for management of behavioural symptoms in dementia, among people in residential care. This continues to occur despite their modest effectiveness, potential harms including increased risk of death and stroke, and absence of detrimental effect when people with dementia were randomised to antipsychotic withdrawal. This study aims to test the hypothesis that the multifaceted REducing Anti-Psychotic use in residential care-Huntington Disease (REAP-HD) programme is more effective than standard staff education (SSE) in reducing antipsychotic use for people with HD in residential care facilities (RCF).

Methods and analysis

this is a cluster randomised controlled trial with blinded outcome assessment. The study population is healthcare professionals looking after people with HD in individual RCF, in the state of New South Wales. Each RCF will be centrally randomised to the REAP-HD programme or the comparator, SSE. Blinded outcome assessment will be performed by examining drug charts and using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory-Q (NPI-Q). Primary outcome is the proportion of people with HD who have had a reduction in antipsychotic use 4 months after the intervention. Secondary outcome measures are (1) change in severity of behavioural symptoms, as measured by the NPI-Q at 4 months (to ensure antipsychotic reduction has not lead to worsening behavioural symptoms), and (2) proportion of people with HD who have had a reduction in antipsychotic dosage at 4 months for each strategy, compared to 4 months prior to enrolment (to capture the possibility that both arms reduced antipsychotic use). Analysis will be by Intention-To-Treat and take into account the clustering. Recruitment is ongoing, as of July 2014.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol has been approved by the Western Sydney Local Health District Human Research Ethics Committee, trial registration ACTRN12614000083695. Study results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication in an anonymous manner.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12614000083695, the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry.
Assessment of equity in healthcare financing in Fiji and Timor-Leste: a study protocol
Authors: Asante Augustine D , Price Jennifer , Hayen Andrew , Irava Wayne , Martins Joao , Guinness Lorna , Ataguba John E , Limwattananon Supon , Mills Anne , Jan Stephen , Wiseman Virginia
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Equitable health financing remains a key health policy objective worldwide. In low and middle-income countries (LMICs), there is evidence that many people are unable to access the health services they need due to financial and other barriers. There are growing calls for fairer health financing systems that will protect people from catastrophic and impoverishing health payments in times of illness. This study aims to assess equity in healthcare financing in Fiji and Timor-Leste in order to support government efforts to improve access to healthcare and move towards universal health coverage in the two countries.

Methods and analysis

The study employs two standard measures of equity in health financing increasingly being applied in LMICs—benefit incidence analysis (BIA) and financing incidence analysis (FIA). In Fiji, we will use a combination of secondary and primary data including a Household Income and Expenditure Survey, National Health Accounts, and data from a cross-sectional household survey on healthcare utilisation. In Timor-Leste, the World Bank recently completed a health equity and financial protection analysis that incorporates BIA and FIA, and found that the distribution of benefits from healthcare financing is pro-rich. Building on this work, we will explore the factors that influence the pro-rich distribution.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of University of New South Wales, Australia (Approval number: HC13269); the Fiji National Health Research Committee (Approval # 201371); and the Timor-Leste Ministry of Health (Ref MS/UNSW/VI/218).

Results

Study outcomes will be disseminated through stakeholder meetings, targeted multidisciplinary seminars, peer-reviewed journal publications, policy briefs and the use of other web-based technologies including social media. A user-friendly toolkit on how to analyse healthcare financing equity will be developed for use by policymakers and development partners in the region.
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Pointing Steve
Published: December 2014

With a passion for travel, Steve Pointing travelled to the Falkland Islands in 1998 to become the islands' senior veterinary officer.
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Stirling Jonathan
Published: December 2014

Jonathan Stirling is managing director of the Pet Vaccination and YourVets group of practices that specialise in cost‐effective primary care. The company employs around 100 full‐time staff and is looking to expand.
Building a certificate block by block
Authors: Millington Claire
Published: December 2014

The RCVS recently enrolled the 500th vet on its new modular certificate. Claire Millington of the Royal College's communications department explains how flexibility is a key feature of the new system
Writing a good letter
Authors:   BVA New graduate guide
Published: December 2014

Your job application covering letter is crucial to making a good first impression. It should leave the prospective employer wanting to know more about you
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Wensley Sean
Published: December 2014

Sean Wensley is senior veterinary surgeon for communication and education at PDSA and a member of the Companion Animal Welfare Council; he is a trustee of the BVA Animal Welfare Foundation and a committee member of the BVA Ethics and Welfare Group.
Time to train?
Authors: Millington Claire
Published: December 2014

From April this year, employees working in organisations of 250 people or more will be able to request time to undertake study or training in a government initiative called ‘time to train’. From April 2011, this will apply to all employees
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Shield Christine
Published: December 2014

Christine Shield is a non‐executive clinical director for Companion Care, a part‐time role which she performs alongside other freelance and locum work within the profession. After graduating from the Edinburgh vet school in 1983, she opened her own single‐handed small animal practice in 1987, selling it as a going concern in 2004. She is a past‐president of the Society of Practising Veterinary Surgeons (SPVS) and sits on the councils of the BVA and the RCVS.
A taste of research
Authors: Johnson Hannah
Published: December 2014

Research plays a pivotal role in veterinary and human medicine, but is often overlooked as a career option. Dick Vet undergraduate Hannah Johnson undertook a summer research project to get a better idea of what is involved
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Bower John
Published: December 2014

John Bower, a former BVA President, was presented with his MBE for services to the BVA Animal Welfare Foundation on April 13, having been a trustee for 15 years. He retired from practice in 2007. He has also written a number of veterinary books for pet owners.
A career in pharmaceuticals
Authors: Zeneca Astra
Published: December 2014

Industry offers a range of opportunities for vets who wish to pursue an alternative to practice, including opportunities in research and development
Guidance and support for mental wellbeing
Authors: Bartram David
Published: December 2014

David Bartram considers some of the support mechanisms available to veterinary surgeons
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Lister Stephen
Published: December 2014

Stephen Lister spent 10 years in the State Veterinary Service before setting up a poultry advisory and consultancy service in Norfolk. He is currently president of an EU poultry vet group
A career in government service
Authors: Smith Linda
Published: December 2014

Linda Smith looks at some of the options available
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Ogilvie‐Graham Tom
Published: December 2014

Tom Ogilvie‐Graham, MBE, is commanding officer of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) – a unit of highly motivated soldiers that cares for the ceremonial horses and the growing team of dogs deployed in operational units
Overcoming loneliness or feelings of isolation in your first job
Authors: Hubbard Jill
Published: December 2014

You had a whale of a time at vet school, worked hard and couldn't wait to get on with being a vet. You got your first job and suddenly you're on your own. Jill Hubbard, a facilitator with the BVA's Young Vet Network, offers some advice
Thinking globally
Authors:   University of Edinburgh
Published: December 2014

THE University of Edinburgh runs a part‐time distance learning programme leading to a Masters degree in International Animal Health.
Opening new doors
Authors: Hill Myfanwy
Published: December 2014

Doing a research project as an undergraduate gives you experiences and skills that will benefit you as a vet or as a scientist, says third‐year veterinary student Myfanwy Hill
PDP three years on
Authors: Wells Julian
Published: December 2014

The professional development phase (PDP) was introduced three years ago to help support veterinary graduates as they begin their careers in clinical practice. Julian Wells, one of the scheme's postgraduate deans, assesses progress so far
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Richards Iain
Published: December 2014

Iain Richards has a mixed role in a mixed practice in Cumbria – one day he might be on a farm, another in theatre and the next at the computer. He has just finished his term of office as president of the Society of Practising Veterinary Surgeons
Vets in the Army
Authors: Ogilvie‐Graham Tom
Published: December 2014

In a generally contracting Army, the Royal Army Veterinary Corps has doubled in size in the past five to six years. Brigadier Tom Ogilvie‐Graham, MBE, its commanding officer, discusses what being a vet in the Army entails
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Wilson Roger
Published: December 2014

Apart from being the senior partner in a five‐vet small animal practice in the New Forest, Roger Wilson is chairman of the Royal Yachting Association Racing Committee, which is responsible for all yacht and dinghy racing in the UK, from running race training for children, to choosing the yachts to represent Team GBR in the Commodores Cup. Part of this involves the development of the facilities at Weymouth for the 2012 Olympics, as well as developing the training schemes and policies for selection for the volunteers that will run the Olympics in 2012.
Distance learning from Dublin
Authors: Cashman Diane
Published: December 2014

Distance learning is growing in popularity as a method of accessing continuing education. Diane Cashman, of University College Dublin, explains that this is particularly true in Ireland where many vets and nurses live in rural communities
Preparing tomorrow's vets
Authors: Andrews Tony
Published: December 2014

The Embryo Vet School was set up in 2005 to give schoolchildren a realistic view of what it is like to work in the veterinary profession. One of its directors, Tony Andrews, discusses its aims
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Brownlie Joe
Published: December 2014

Joe Brownlie is Emeritus Professor of Veterinary Pathology at the Royal Veterinary College and head of two active research groups, one on bovine viral diarrhoea virus and the other on canine infectious coronavirus disease. He developed the first BVDV vaccine that gave fetal protection.
Widening access to veterinary school
Authors: Cannon Jim
Published: December 2014

The RVC's Gateway Programme aims to widen the opportunities for students who do not meet the College's normal entry requirements to study for a veterinary degree. Jim Cannon discusses progress so far
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Robson Emily
Published: December 2014

Emily Robson followed in her family's footsteps and studied veterinary medicine. After three years in mixed and equine practice, she embarked on a sculpture degree at Gray's School of Art in Aberdeen.
Communication – a skill that needs to be acquired
Authors: Magrath Christine , Little Geoff
Published: December 2014

Effective communication is essential in both human and veterinary medicine. Christine Magrath and Geoff Little of the Veterinary Defence Society communications team describe an initiative to bring communications training into veterinary practices
A residency in equine clinical epidemiology
Authors: Salonen Laura
Published: December 2014

As a competition horse owner and rider, vet Laura Salonen was keen to work in the equine sector, so she took up a residency in equine clinical epidemiology
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Middleton Sarah
Published: December 2014

Sarah Middleton qualified from the University of Liverpool in 2003. After working in mixed and small animal practice she set up a self‐contained cat‐only veterinary clinic in the north east of England.
Students contribute at EU level
Authors: Giles George
Published: December 2014

DG SANCO recently invited one student from each EU veterinary school to meet to discuss its ‘one health’ initiative in Brussels. George Giles was one of the students involved
Ten‐minute chat
Authors: Baillie Sarah
Published: December 2014

Sarah Baillie, senior lecturer in veterinary education at the Royal Veterinary College, was featured in New Scientist last year as having one of the ‘10 Best Jobs in Science’. As she says, ‘It was great to see a veterinary career featured – some of the other jobs were F1 mechanic and astronaut.’
Writing a grant proposal
Authors: Mitchell Natasha
Published: December 2014

Natasha Mitchell, who recently completed a Petsavers‐funded research project from practice, offers some advice on writing a grant proposal
Working in post‐conflict and developing countries
Authors: Love David
Published: December 2014

David Love works in challenging situations that are not without risk. Here, he describes how his veterinary degree has allowed him to expand his career horizons beyond what may be considered normal for many British veterinarians
A career in emergency medicine
Authors: Chan Dan
Published: December 2014

Despite unsociable hours, an unpredictable workload, coping with stressful situations and having to face difficult ethical dilemmas, working in emergency care is nevertheless gratifying, explains Dan Chan, who has worked in this field for 14 years
Gaining new insight into disease control
Authors: Gibbens Nigel
Published: December 2014

The UK Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO), Nigel Gibbens, visited the University of Liverpool's Leahurst campus last month to take part in a mock animal disease outbreak exercise and to talk about his role
The glucocorticoid stress response in Magellanic Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus): comparing within and between breeding seasons, by age and colony, after fighting, and with other penguin species
Authors: Walker Brian G. , Boersma P. Dee , Wingfield John C.
Published: December 2014

Comparing baseline and stress-induced glucocorticoid hormone levels in animals is a popular tool to assess differences in stress experienced among groups. We compare corticosterone levels in Magellanic Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus (J.R. Forster, 1781)) in situations where we hypothesize differences in stress patterns may exist. We compared penguins both within and between breeding seasons, birds breeding at two different locations, penguins at three different ages, penguins that had shown evidence of recent fighting, and, finally, how stress patterns differed for four different penguin species. Throughout a breeding season (settlement, incubation, and chick-rearing), we found no differences in either baseline or stress-induced hormone concentrations. Chick, juvenile, and adult penguins did not differ in baseline corticosterone levels, but juveniles had a reduced stress response. Penguins in one season showed a stress response to capture, likely due to a recent severe weather event. We found no differences in baseline or stress-induced hormone titers for birds from two different breeding locations. Evidence of recent fighting also did not alter baseline corticosterone levels. Finally, among four species of penguins measured (Magellanic, Humboldt (Spheniscus humboldti Meyen, 1834), Galápagos (Spheniscus mendiculus Sundevall, 1871), and Rockhopper (Eudyptes chrysocome (J.R. Forster, 1781)), baseline levels were always consistent, while stress-induced levels were significantly higher in the Rockhopper Penguin only.
The importance of silicon detectors for the Higgs boson discovery and the study of its properties
Authors: Bortoletto Daniela ,   (on behalf of the CMS Collaboration)
Published: December 2014

Recent studies are presented demonstrating the important role played by silicon detectors in the discovery of the Higgs boson. CMS is planning to replace it in an extended technical stop of the LHC in the winter of 2016. We present results showing that this replacement will significantly increase the sample of Higgs bosons that will be reconstructed enabling precision studies of this particle.
Photonic processes in Born–Infeld theory
Authors: Dávila José Manuel , Schubert Christian , Trejo María Anabel
Published: December 2014

We study the processes of photon–photon scattering and photon splitting in a magnetic field in Born–Infeld theory. In both cases we combine the terms from the tree-level Born–Infeld Lagrangian with the usual one-loop QED contributions, where those are approximated by the Euler–Heisenberg Lagrangian, including also the interference terms. For photon–photon scattering we obtain the total cross-section in the low-energy approximation. For photon splitting we compute the total absorption coefficient in the hexagon (weak field) approximation, and also show that, due to the non-birefringence property of Born–Infeld theory, the selection rules found by Adler for the QED case continue to hold in this more general setting. We discuss the bounds on the free parameter of Born–Infeld theory that may be obtained from this type of processes.
Identifying and Exploiting Diurnal Motifs in Wind Generation Time Series Data
Authors: Fan Ya Ju , Kamath Chandrika
Published: December 2014

Wind energy is scheduled on the power grid using 0–6 h ahead forecasts generated from computer simulations or historical data. When the forecasts are inaccurate, control room operators use their expertise, as well as the actual generation from previous days, to estimate the amount of energy to schedule. However, this is a challenge, and it would be useful for the operators to have additional information they can exploit to make better informed decisions. In this paper, we use techniques from time series analysis to determine if there are motifs, or frequently occurring diurnal patterns in wind generation data. We compare two different representations of the data and four different ways of identifying the number of motifs. Using data from wind farms in Tehachapi Pass and mid-Columbia Basin, we describe our findings and discuss how these motifs can be used to guide scheduling decisions.
On the braid index of Kanenobu knots II
Authors: Takioka Hideo
Published: December 2014

In our previous paper, we studied the braid index of the Kanenobu knot k(n) for n ≥ 0. In this paper, we study the braid index of the Kanenobu knot K(a, b) for a, b ∈ ℤ. In particular, k(n) is K(2n, -2n). The MFW inequality is known for giving a lower bound of the braid index of an oriented link by applying the HOMFLYPT polynomial. The HOMFLYPT polynomial of K(a, b) is given by Professor Taizo Kanenobu. Therefore, we have a lower bound of the braid index of K(a, b). The purpose of this paper is to give an upper bound of the braid index of K(a, b). As a result, we determine the braid indices of infinitely many Kanenobu knots.
Improved Listless Embedded Block Partitioning Algorithms for Image Compression
Authors: Senapati Ranjan Kumar , Mankar Prasanth
Published: December 2014

In this paper, two simple yet efficient embedded block-based image compression algorithms are presented. These algorithms not only improve the rate distortion performances of set partitioning in hierarchical trees (SPIHT) and set partitioning in embedded block coder (SPECK) at lower bit rates but also reduces the dynamic memory requirement by 91.1% in comparison to SPIHT. The former objective is achieved by better exploiting the coefficient decaying spectrum of the wavelet transformd images and the later objective is realised by improved listless implementation of the algorithms. The proposed algorithms explicitly perform breadth first search like SPECK. Extensive simulation conducted on various standard grayscale and color images indicate significant peak-signal-to-noise-ratio (PSNR) improvement over most of the state-of-the-art wavelet-based embedded coders including JPEG2000 at lower rates. The reduction of encoding and decoding time as well as improvement in coding efficiency at lower bit rates facilitate these coder as better candidates for multimedia applications.
Fingerprint Liveness Detection Using Multiple Static Features and Random Forests
Authors: Guo Yanyan , Fei Xiangdong , Zhao Qijun
Published: December 2014

It has been demonstrated that fingerprint recognition systems are susceptible to spoofing by presenting a well-duplicated synthetic such as a gummy finger. This paper proposes a novel software-based liveness detection approach using multiple static features. Given a fingerprint image, the static features, including fingerprint coarseness, first-order statistics and intensity-based features, are extracted. Unlike previous methods, the fingerprint coarseness is modeled as multiplicative noise rather than additive noise and is extracted by cepstral analysis. A random forest classifier is employed to select effective features among the extracted features and to differentiate fake from live fingerprints. The proposed method has been evaluated on the standard database provided in the Fingerprint Liveness Detection Competition 2009 (LivDet2009). Compared with other state-of-the-art methods, the proposed method reduces the average classification error rate by more than 20%.
EFFECT OF THE POSITION OF THE CORONARY SINUS ORIFICE ON AORTIC LEAFLET COAPTATION
Authors: PAN YOULIAN , QIAO AIKE , DONG NIANGUO
Published: December 2014

Background: The various components of the aortic root maintain a particular geometric relationship to guarantee unobstructed blood flow across the aortic valve and valve competence. Objective: To quantify the effect of the position of the coronary sinus orifice (CSO) on aortic leaflet coaptation. Methods: 2D and 3D finite element models of an aortic valve and root were constructed, with the CSO located on the bottom and middle of the sinuses. ADINA fluid-structure interaction solver was employed to perform computational simulation. Results: The mean sinus pressure with left and right CSO was 1.02E+4 Pa and 1.03E+4 Pa, respectively, and the average leaflet pressure with left and right CSO was 1.06E+4 Pa and 1.05E+4 Pa, respectively, for the model with CSO located in the middle and bottom of the sinus. The leaflet summit displacement differences of the CSO position on the bottom and middle between left and right coronary sinuses and none were 11.56, -107.57, 16.17 and -92.86 μm, respectively. Conclusions: The position of the CSO affects the pressure distribution of the aortic root. The local high pressure results in symmetrical deformation of the three leaflets, and decreases the risk of leaflet mismatch in coaptation.
DYNAMIC RECURRENT NEURAL NETWORK BASED CLASSIFICATION SCHEME FOR MYOELECTRIC CONTROL OF UPPER LIMB REHABILITATION ROBOT
Authors: CUI YUDING , XIONG CAIHUA
Published: December 2014

This paper proposes and evaluates the application of a modular dynamic recurrent neural network (DRNN) to classify upper limb motion using myoelectric signals. The DRNN algorithmic issues, including the structure selection, the segmentation of the data and various feature sets such as time-domain features and frequency features, were evaluated experimentally in order to actualize the optimization and configuration of this classification scheme. This was achieved by using a majority vote technique to post-process the output decision stream. The DRNN-based approach was then been compared with two commonly used classification methods: multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural network and linear discriminant analysis (LDA). The DRNN-based motion classification system demonstrated exceptional accuracy and a low computational load for the classification of robust limb motion. The DRNN may also display utility for online training and controlling rehabilitation robots.
Examples of simply-connected K-contact non-Sasakian manifolds of dimension 5
Authors: Kim Jin Hong
Published: December 2014

The existence of compact simply-connected K-contact, but not Sasakian, manifolds has been unknown only for dimension 5. The aim of this paper is to show that the Kollár's simply-connected example which is a Seifert bundle over the complex projective space ℂℙ2 and does not carry any Sasakian structure is actually a K-contact manifold. As a consequence, we affirmatively answer the above existence problem in dimension 5, establishing that there are infinitely many compact simply-connected K-contact manifolds of dimension 5 which do not carry a Sasakian structure.
Overview and biostratigraphy
Authors: Rees A. J. , Thomas A. T. , Lewis M. , Hughes H. E. , Turner P.
Published: December 2014

Excellent coastal exposures of strongly folded and faulted Cambrian rocks occur around the St David's Peninsula of SW Wales. The best sections occur in the St David's Anticline, in the vicinity of St David's itself, and these have been the subject of scientific study since the mid-Nineteenth Century. Based on this early work, a quadripartite lithostratigraphical scheme emerged, comprising the Caerfai, Solva and Menevian groups and the Lingula Flags Formation. However, this scheme is unnecessarily complex, and sometimes unworkable in practice. The Caerfai Group is here redefined to embrace much of the Solva Group of earlier authors, while the upper part of the Solva Group, the Menevian Group and Lingula Flags are combined in the new Porth-y-rhaw Group. Traditionally, all these Cambrian rocks have been thought of as being deposited on a stable cratonic platform, but there is substantial evidence of tectonic influences on sedimentation, particularly in the older part of the succession. The Cambrian was originally recognized and defined in North Wales. There, as in many other areas, it became common practice to divide the period into three parts, but more recent work favours a four-fold chronostratigraphical subdivision. The oldest part of the Cambrian is missing in South Wales, but rocks of Terreneuvian, C2, C3 and Furongian age are all represented. Age-diagnostic fossils are few in the older part of the local succession. Trace fossils low in the Caerfai Group indicate the
avalonensis
Ichnozone or
Teichichnus
Interval of the Terreneuvian, while a radiometric date of early C2 (CS3) age has been obtained higher up. Trilobite faunas occur more commonly in the higher parts of the Caerfai Group and in the Porth-y-rhaw Group, and these facilitate international correlation of the C3 (CS5) to Furongian (Paibian) parts of the succession. Trilobites characteristic of the
oelandicus
Biosuperzone and the
gibbus
,
fissus
,
parvifrons
,
punctuosus
,
pisiformis
and
Olenus
biozones all occur.
Physical activity: benefit or weakness in metabolic adaptations in a mouse model of chronic food restriction?
Authors: Méquinion Mathieu , Caron Emilie , Zgheib Sara , Stievenard Aliçia , Zizzari Philippe , Tolle Virginie , Cortet Bernard , Lucas Stéphanie , Prévot Vincent , Chauveau Christophe , Viltart Odile
Published: December 2014

In restrictive-type anorexia nervosa (AN) patients, physical activity is usually associated with food restriction, but its physiological consequences remain poorly characterized. In female mice, we evaluated the impact of voluntary physical activity with/without chronic food restriction on metabolic and endocrine parameters that might contribute to AN. In this protocol, FRW mice (i.e., food restriction with running wheel) reached a crucial point of body weight loss (especially fat mass) faster than FR mice (i.e., food restriction only). However, in contrast to FR mice, their body weight stabilized, demonstrating a protective effect of a moderate, regular physical activity. Exercise delayed meal initiation and duration. FRW mice displayed food anticipatory activity compared with FR mice, which was strongly diminished with the prolongation of the protocol. The long-term nature of the protocol enabled assessment of bone parameters similar to those observed in AN patients. Both restricted groups adapted their energy metabolism differentially in the short and long term, with less fat oxidation in FRW mice and a preferential use of glucose to compensate for the chronic energy imbalance. Finally, like restrictive AN patients, FRW mice exhibited low leptin levels, high plasma concentrations of corticosterone and ghrelin, and a disruption of the estrous cycle. In conclusion, our model suggests that physical activity has beneficial effects on the adaptation to the severe condition of food restriction despite the absence of any protective effect on lean and bone mass.
Malouf Syndrome with Hypergonadotropic Hypogonadism and Cardiomyopathy: Two-Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Şilfeler Dilek Benk , Karateke Atilla , Keskin Kurt Raziye , Aldemir Özgür , Buğra Nacar Alper , Baloğlu Ali
Published: December 2014

Malouf syndrome is a very rarely encountered syndrome which was first diagnosed in 1985 upon the examination of two sisters, with findings of hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, dilated cardiomyopathy, blepharoptosis, and broad nasal base. Later on, Narahara diagnosed another sporadic case with the same findings. A survey of relevant literature leads us to three women cases in total. Here we present two cases of Malouf syndrome and literature review.
An Electronic Circuit Model of the Interpostsynaptic Functional LINK Designed to Study the Formation of Internal Sensations in the Nervous System
Authors: Vadakkan Kunjumon I.
Published: December 2014

The nervous system makes changes in response to the continuous arrival of associative learning stimuli from the environment and executes behavioral motor activities after making predictions based on past experience. The system exhibits dynamic plasticity changes that involve the formation of the first-person internal sensations of perception, memory, and consciousness to which only the owner of the nervous system has access. These properties of natural intelligence need to be verified for their mechanism of formation using engineered systems so that a third person can access them. In the presence of a synaptic junctional delay of up to two milliseconds, we anticipate that the systems property of formation of internal sensations is likely independent of the mode of conduction along the neuronal processes. This allows testing for the formation of internal sensations using electronic circuits. The present work describes the neurobiological context for the formation of the basic units of inner sensations that occur through the reactivation of interpostsynaptic functional LINKs and its connection to motor activity. These mechanisms are translated to an analogue circuit unit for the development of robotic systems.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Indigo Carmine Dye Using Calcium Oxide
Authors: Devarahosahalli Veeranna Kirana , Theeta Lakshamaiah Madhu , Thimmasandra Narayan Ramesh
Published: December 2014

Calcium oxide was used as photocatalyst for the degradation of indigo carmine dye solution in the visible, long UV, and short UV radiation. We have investigated the effectiveness of degradation of indigo carmine dye solution at pH 9 and 12 using calcium oxide with the particle size of 30–36 nm by varying the concentration, dose of adsorbent, and duration. It has been found that the degradation of indigo carmine dye is effective at pH = 9, when 0.12 g of calcium oxide was used. The nature of interaction between calcium oxide and indigo carmine dye was discussed.
Characterization of thealgCGene Expression Pattern in the Multidrug ResistantAcinetobacter baumanniiAIIMS 7 and Correlation with Biofilm Development on Abiotic Surface
Authors: Sahu Praveen K. , Iyer Pavithra S. , Barage Sagar H. , Sonawane Kailas D. , Chopade Balu A.
Published: December 2014

Relative quantification ofalgCgene expression was evaluated in the multidrug resistant strainAcinetobacter baumanniiAIIMS 7 biofilm (3 to 96 h, on polystyrene surface) compared to the planktonic counterparts. Comparison revealed differentialalgCexpression pattern with maximum 81.59-fold increase in biofilm cells versus 3.24-fold in planktonic cells (P<0.05). Expression levels strongly correlated with specific biofilm stages (scale of 3 to 96 h), coinciding maximum at initial surface attachment stage (9 h) and biofilm maturation stage (48 h). Cloning, heterologous expression, and bioinformatics analyses indicatedalgCgene product as the bifunctional enzyme phosphomannomutase/phosphoglucomutase (PMM/PGM) of ∼53 kDa size, which augmented biofilms significantly inalgCclones compared to controls (lackingalgCgene), further localized by scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, molecular dynamics analysis on the three-dimensional structure of PMM/PGM (simulated up to 10 ns) revealed enzyme structure as stable and similar to that inP. aeruginosa(synthesis of alginate and lipopolysaccharide core) and involved in constitution of biofilm EPS (extracellular polymeric substances). Our observation on differential expression pattern ofalgChaving strong correlation with important biofilm stages, scanning electron-microscopic evidence of biofilm augmentation taken together with predictive enzyme functions via molecular dynamic (MD) simulation, proposes a new basis ofA. baumanniiAIIMS 7 biofilm development on inanimate surfaces.