bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A prospective evaluation of the impact of second‐opinion histopathology on diagnostic testing, cost and treatment in dogs and cats with cancer
Authors: Regan R. C. , Rassnick K. M. , Malone E. K. , McDonough S. P.
Published: February 2013

Second‐opinion histopathology is a common practice in human medicine to avoid unnecessary procedures, costs and to optimize therapy. Histopathology review has been recommended in veterinary oncology as well. In this prospective evaluation of 52 tumours over a 1‐year period, there was diagnostic agreement between first and second opinions in 52% of cases. Twenty‐nine percent of cases had partial diagnostic disagreement, most often a change in grade, tumour subtype or margin status. Nineteen percent had complete diagnostic disagreement, including a change in cell of origin or a change from benign to malignant. Minor disagreements, which would not affect treatment or prognosis, were present in 21% of cases. Major disagreements, which would affect either treatment or prognosis, were present in 37% of cases. Costs of ideal staging and treatment recommendations were considerably different between first and second opinions.
Genetic removal of basal nitric oxide enhances contractile activity in isolated murine collecting lymphatic vessels
Authors: Scallan Joshua P. , Davis Michael J.
Published: February 2013

Key points

Stimulation of nitric oxide (NO) production by lymphatic endothelium was originally thought to inhibit lymphatic contractile function.

However, recent studies have suggested that basal NO paradoxically increases the strength of contractions as a consequence of decreasing contraction frequency.

Here, we tested that hypothesis directly for the first time by establishing a new preparation where lymphatic vessels were isolated from transgenic mice and retained robust contractile activity.

Genetic removal of basal NO using endothelial NO synthase−/− mice led to an increase in contraction strength without increasing contraction frequency, opposing this hypothesis. In contrast, higher levels of NO production stimulated by ACh inhibited lymphatic contractile function in wild‐type and inducible NO synthase−/− mice, consistent with previous studies.

Our results show that NO functions in the peripheral lymphatic vasculature to depress contractile function, which will ultimately depress lymph flow that determines fluid homeostasis, humoral immunity and cancer metastasis.

Abstract  The role of nitric oxide (NO) in regulating lymphatic contractile function and, consequently, lymph flow has been the subject of intense study. Despite this, the precise effects of NO on lymphatic contractile activity remain unclear. Recent hypotheses posit that basal levels of endogenous NO increase lymphatic contraction strength as a consequence of lowering frequency (i.e. positive lusitropy), whereas higher agonist‐evoked concentrations of NO exert purely inhibitory effects on contractile function. We tested both hypotheses directly by isolating and cannulating collecting lymphatic vessels from genetically modified mice for ex vivo study. The effects of basal NO and agonist‐evoked NO were evaluated, respectively, by exposing wild‐type (WT), endothelial NO synthase (eNOS)−/− and inducible NO synthase (iNOS)−/− lymphatic vessels to controlled pressure steps followed by ACh doses. To compare with pharmacological inhibition of eNOS, we repeated both tests in the presence of l‐NAME. Surprisingly, genetic removal of basal NO enhanced contraction amplitude significantly without increasing contraction frequency. Higher levels of NO production stimulated by ACh evoked dilation, decreased tone, slowed contraction frequency and reduced fractional pump flow. We conclude that basal NO specifically depresses contraction amplitude, and that greater NO production then inhibits all other aspects of contractile function. Further, this work demonstrates definitively that mouse collecting lymphatic vessels exhibit autonomous, large‐amplitude contractions that respond to pressure similarly to collecting lymphatics of other mammalian species. At least in the peripheral lymphatic vasculature, NO production depresses contractile function, which influences lymph flow needed for fluid regulation, humoral immunity and cancer metastasis.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Pseudomonas fluorescens Bacteriophage UFV-P2
Authors: Eller Monique R. , Salgado Rafael L. , Vidigal Pedro M. P. , Alves Maura P. , Dias Roberto S. , de Oliveira Leandro L. , da Silva Cynthia C. , de Carvalho Antônio F. , De Paula Sérgio O.
Published: February 2013

Milk proteolysis caused by
Pseudomonas fluorescens
is a serious problem in the dairy industries as a result of its ability to grow under refrigeration. The use of phages to control contaminants in food has been considered an alternative to traditional methods; therefore, a thorough understanding of such organisms is vital for their use. In this study, we show the complete genome sequence and analysis of a
P. fluorescens
phage isolated from wastewater of a dairy industry in Brazil.
Complete Genome Sequence of Simiduia agarivorans SA1

T

, a Marine Bacterium Able To Degrade a Variety of Polysaccharides
Authors: Lin Silk Yu , Shieh Wung Yang , Chen Jwo-Sheng , Tang Sen-Lin
Published: February 2013

Simiduia agarivorans
strain SA1

T

is able to degrade a variety of polysaccharides found in marine algae, plants, and animals. The genome of
S. agarivorans
SA1

T

consists of a single chromosome (4,309,711 bp), and its information may provide insights into the polysaccharide-degrading capability, cell division, flagellar motility, and chemotaxis of this bacterium.
Whole-Genome Shotgun Sequencing of Mycobacterium abscessus M156, an Emerging Clinical Pathogen in Malaysia
Authors: Choo Siew Woh , Wong Yan Ling , Beh Ching Yew , Lokanathan Naline , Leong Mee Lian , Ong Chia Sui , Ng Kee Peng , Ngeow Yun Fong
Published: February 2013

Mycobacterium abscessus
is an emerging clinical pathogen commonly associated with non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections. We report herein the draft genome of
M. abscessus
strain M156.
Draft Genome Sequence of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Strain J96
Authors: Klein Eric A. , Gitai Zemer
Published: February 2013

Escherichia coli
J96 (O4:K6) was isolated from a human pyelonephritis patient. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
E. coli
J96, which contains virulence genes, including adhesion factors, alpha-hemolysins, and cytotoxic necrotizing factor. J96 infects the kidney and bladder, making it an important tool for studying
E. coli
pathogenesis.
UNIVERSALITY OF QUARK–LEPTON MASS MATRIX
Authors: FUKUYAMA TAKESHI , NISHIURA HIROYUKI
Published: February 2013

The recently observed lepton mixing angle θ13 of the MNS mixing matrix is well incorporated in a universal mixing hypothesis between quark and lepton sectors. This hypothesis asserts that, in the charged lepton diagonal base, all other mass matrices for up- and down-type quarks and light neutrinos are diagonalized by the same unitary matrix except for the phase elements. It is expressed as V CKM = U MNS (δ′)†PU MNS (δ) for quark mixing matrix V CKM and lepton mixing matrix U MNS (δ) in the phenomenological level. Here P is a diagonal phase mass matrix. δ′ is a slightly different phase parameter from the Dirac CP-violating phase δ = 1.1π (best fit) in the MNS lepton mixing matrix.
FERROMAGNETISM IN MECHANICALLY MILLED PURE SnO2
Authors: MOHANTY SUNITA , KAR MANORANJAN , RAVI S.
Published: February 2013

Pure SnO 2 based wide band gap semiconductors were prepared by mechanical alloying method by using steel and tungsten carbide vials. They were further annealed at 900°C. The XRD patterns could be refined by using P42/ mnm space group with typical lattice parameters a = b = 4.7322 Å and c = 3.1848 Å. The as milled powders obtained from both the vials exhibit room temperature ferromagnetism (FM) without any transition element doping. However upon annealing, the FM was destroyed in one of the samples. The observed FM is explained in terms of oxygen vacancy and defects induced electrons and exchange interaction between them. The ferromagnetic transition temperature obtained from the temperature variation of magnetization was found to be 915 K. The initial magnetization data could be analyzed in terms of bound magnetic polaron model. The resonance field shift in electron spin resonance spectrum is explained in terms of observed ferromagnetism.
BACK-REACTION IN RELATIVISTIC COSMOLOGY
Authors: CLIFTON TIMOTHY
Published: February 2013

We introduce the concept of back-reaction in relativistic cosmological modeling. Roughly speaking, this can be thought of as the difference between the large-scale behavior of an inhomogeneous cosmological solution of Einstein's equations, and a homogeneous and isotropic solution that is a best-fit to either the average of observables or dynamics in the inhomogeneous solution. This is sometimes paraphrased as "the effect that structure has of the large-scale evolution of the universe." Various different approaches have been taken in the literature in order to try and understand back-reaction in cosmology. We provide a brief and critical summary of some of them, highlighting recent progress that has been made in each case.
EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF THE PHOTOCHROMIC EFFECT AND TWO-COLOR HOLOGRAPHIC RECORDING IN NEAR-STOICHIOMETRIC LiNbO3:Fe:Mn CRYSTALS
Authors: LIU YOUWEN , ZHOU YUANYUAN , ZHU MINJUN , HE CONGJUN
Published: February 2013

Near-stoichiometric LiNbO3:Fe:Mn crystals are grown, then annealed in the oxygen atmosphere at 900°C for 6, 10 and 18 h. The photochromic effect of samples are investigated by measuring UV/VIS/NIR spectra before and after illumination of sensitizing light of 405 nm, and the dynamic characteristics were evaluated by use of the pump–probe method. Both the saturated absorption change and the photochromic speed increase with increases in the sensitizing intensity and the Fe concentration. In the two-color recording experiment, the holographic gratings were recorded by a red light of 633 nm, simultaneously sensitized by a violet light of 405 nm. The results show that the saturated diffraction efficiency increases with an increase in the ratio of recording light to sensitizing beam intensities, however, the sensitivity decreases. Higher concentration of Fe enables higher diffraction efficiency and higher sensitivity. In our investigation, the photochromic effect, and the two-color recording properties have little dependence on the oxidation time in the oxygen atmosphere when the oxidation time is longer than 6 h. An optimization may be obtained by further modifying these conditions appropriately.
Commercial Banks and Value Relevance of Derivative Disclosures after SFAS 133: Evidence from the USA
Authors: Siregar Dona , Anandarajan Asokan , Hasan Iftekhar
Published: February 2013

In the last decade there has been a significant increase in the use of derivatives as a vehicle to manage financial risk. The sudden spurt of derivatives has resulted in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) being forced to develop new standards for quantification and disclosure. The financial standard of interest to this study is Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS 133). SFAS 133 requires all derivatives, without exception and regardless of the accounting treatment for the underlying asset, liability, or transaction, to be recognized in the balance sheet as either liabilities or assets. SFAS 133 entitled Accounting for derivative activities and hedging (and SFAS 137, which postponed the implementation of SFAS 133 until June 2000) is different from prior standards in that it requires recognition as opposed to mere disclosure in the notes. The justification given for implementing SFAS 133 was to increase transparency to investors. In this study we empirically investigate this issue with particular focus on whether SFAS 133 provides incremental information above that provided by reported earnings, book value, and proxies for omitted variables. We study commercial banks since they are among the most frequent users of large-scale derivative contracts and their use has increased significantly over the last two decades, and in particular over the last five years. Our findings indicate that information regarding total derivative contracts, when disclosed in the financial statements as required by SFAS 133/137, is value relevant to investors. However, investors view this information negatively, perhaps attributing this to higher risk. Losses on holding derivatives are viewed positively and gains are viewed negatively.
ENHANCING GENOMICS INFORMATION RETRIEVAL THROUGH DIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS
Authors: HU QINMIN , HUANG JIMMY XIANGJI
Published: February 2013

We propose a novel dimensional analysis approach to employing meta information in order to find the relationships within the unstructured or semi-structured document/passages for improving genomics information retrieval performance. First, we make use of the auxiliary information as three basic dimensions, namely "temporal", "journal", and "author". The reference section is treated as a commensurable quantity of the three basic dimensions. Then, the sample space and subspaces are built up and a set of events are defined to meet the basic requirement of dimensional homogeneity to be commensurable quantities. After that, the classic graph analysis algorithm in the Web environments is applied on each dimension respectively to calculate the importance of each dimension. Finally, we integrate all the dimension networks and re-rank the outputs for evaluation. Our experimental results show the proposed approach is superior and promising.
HIERARCHICAL AND PROBABILISTIC QUANTUM STATE SHARING WITH A NONMAXIMALLY FOUR-QUBIT CLUSTER STATE
Authors: PENG JIA-YIN , MO ZHI-WEN
Published: February 2013

A scheme that probabilistically realizing hierarchical quantum state sharing of an arbitrary unknown qubit state with a nonmaximally four-qubit cluster state is presented in this paper. In the scheme, the sender Alice distributes a quantum secret with a Bell-state measurement and publishes her measurement outcomes via a classical channel to three agents who are divided into two grades. One agent is in the upper grade while other two agents are in the lower grade. Then introducing an ancillary qubit, the agent of the upper grade only needs the assistance of any one of the other two agents for probabilistically getting the secret, while an agent of the lower grade needs the help of all the other two agents by implementing a controlled-NOT operation and a proper positive operator-valued measurement instead of usual projective measurement. In other words, the agents of two different grades have different authorities to reconstruct Alice's secret by a probabilistic manner. Moreover, the total success probability and the maximum success probability of the scheme are also worked out.
USING OF BEZIER FORMULATION FOR CALCULATION OF STREAMLINE, STRAIN DISTRIBUTION AND EXTRUSION LOAD IN RECTANGULAR CROSS SECTION OF ECAE PROCESS
Authors: NAROOEI K. , TAHERI A. KARIMI
Published: February 2013

In this research, a general solution of volume constancy differential equation is presented based on the equation of deformation field for a general process. As the Bezier method is suitable for construction of complex geometries, the solution is used in conjunction with the Bezier method to analyze the equal channel angular extrusion (ECAE) process of rectangular cross section. Thus, a generalized kinematically admissible velocity field is derived from the equation of deformation zone such that the compatibility of the surface representing the deformation zone is fulfilled. The effects of die angle, friction between the billet and die wall, and the angle of outer curved corner, on extrusion pressure are all considered in the analysis. It is found that extrusion pressure decreases with increasing both the die angle and the outer curved corner angle and with decreasing the friction coefficient. Also, the effect of die curvature on inhemogenity of strain is assessed. It is exhibited that increasing the angle of outer curved corner decreases the extrusion pressure and increases the inhomogeniety of strain field of deformation zone. A good agreement is found between the predicted and experimental results pertaining to two dies of different outer curved corner.
A FAST PALMPRINT VERIFICATION SYSTEM BASED ON FRACTAL CODING
Authors: ZHANG HUAN
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a fast palmprint verification system based on fractal coding. In the stage of registration, a sub-image from user's training palmprints is intentionally extracted and stored as his or her template. In the stage of verification, the step of region of interest extraction is not needed, the sample image is directly matched with the template based on fractal coding, which can reduce the whole response time. Whether the sample image and the template are from the same person or not is decided by their matching scores. Experimental evaluation results on two databases clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
MP-CLOSED SUBSETS IN BASIC ALGEBRAS
Authors: Chajda I. , Krňávek J.
Published: February 2013

A subset M of a given basic algebra [Formula: see text] is MP-closed if a ∈ M and a → b ∈ M always imply b ∈ M for b ≤ a. We get a characterization of MP-closed subsets for commutative basic algebras in terms of closedness in the derived operation ⊙. If, moreover, the basic algebra is a chain, then a particular simple condition is derived. For basic algebras which are not commutative we derive only a closedness with respect to the deduction rule Modus Tollens.
A GRAPHICAL TECHNIQUE TO FIND THE PERMUTATION REPRESENTATION OF THE TRIANGLE GROUPS △(2, 3, k)
Authors: Mushtaq Qaiser , Baig Sadef
Published: February 2013

In this paper we have developed a graphical technique by which a suitably created fragment of a coset diagram for the action of PSL(2, ℤ) on projective lines over Galois fields can be used to obtain a complete coset diagram depicting finite homomorphic images of groups Δ(2, 3, k) = 〈x, y : x2 = y3 = (xy)k = 1〉.
σ-IDEALS OF ALMOST DISTRIBUTIVE LATTICES
Authors: Sambasiva Rao M. , Rao G. C.
Published: February 2013

The concept of σ-ideals is introduced in almost distributive lattices (ADLs). Generalized stone ADLs are characterized in terms of their σ-ideals and α-ideals. Normal ADLs are also characterized in terms of their O-ideals and σ-ideals. Finally, a discussion is made about the epimorphic images and inverse images of σ-ideals.
Reconstructing surfaces of particle-based fluids using anisotropic kernels
Authors: Yu Jihun , Turk Greg
Published: February 2013

In this article we present a novel surface reconstruction method for particle-based fluid simulators such as Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics. In particle-based simulations, fluid surfaces are usually defined as a level set of an implicit function. We formulate the implicit function as a sum of anisotropic smoothing kernels, and the direction of anisotropy at a particle is determined by performing Principal Component Analysis (PCA) over the neighboring particles. In addition, we perform a smoothing step that repositions the centers of these smoothing kernels. Since these anisotropic smoothing kernels capture the local particle distributions more accurately, our method has advantages over existing methods in representing smooth surfaces, thin streams, and sharp features of fluids. Our method is fast, easy to implement, and our results demonstrate a significant improvement in the quality of reconstructed surfaces as compared to existing methods.
Spectral appearance changes induced by light exposure
Authors: Kimmel Bradley W. , Baranoski Gladimir V. G. , Chen T. F. , Yim Daniel , Miranda Erik
Published: February 2013

The fading of materials due to light exposure over time is a major contributor to the overall aged appearance of man-made objects. Although much attention has been devoted to the modeling of aging and weathering phenomena over the last decade, comparatively little attention has been paid to fading effects. In this article, we present a theoretical framework for the physically based simulation of time-dependent spectral changes induced by absorbed radiation. This framework relies on the general volumetric radiative transfer theory, and it employs a physicochemical approach to account for variations in the absorptive properties of colorants. Employing this framework, a layered fading model that can be readily integrated into existing rendering systems is developed using the Kubelka-Munk theory. We evaluate its correctness through comparisons of measured and simulated fading results. Finally, we demonstrate the effectiveness of this model through renderings depicting typical fading scenarios.
UV‐Ozone Treatment on Cs2CO3 Interfacial Layer for the Improvement of Inverted Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Xin Yusheng , Wang Zixuan , Xu Lu , Xu Xiaowei , Liu Yang , Zhang Fujun
Published: February 2013

Inverted configuration polymer solar cells (IPSCs) were prepared by using Cs2CO3 modified indium tin oxide (ITO) substrates as cathode and MoO3/Al as anode, ITO/Cs2CO3/P3HT:PCBM/MoO3/Al. The interfacial Cs2CO3 layers were conducted with annealing treatment and different time UV‐Ozone treatment. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of IPSCs was improved to 1% when the UV‐Ozone treatment time is 15 minutes, with the open‐circuit voltage of 0.48 V, short‐circuit current density of 5.4 mA/cm2, and fill factor of 39%. The improvement of IPSCs should be attributed to the increased electron transporting and collection ability of Cs2CO3 layer induced by UV‐Ozone treatment. The underlying mechanism of PCE improvement was discussed in terms of series and shunt resistance of cells induced by UV‐Ozone treatment on Cs2CO3 layer, and the mole ratio of Cs to O of Cs2CO3 layer with different UV‐Ozone treatment was investigated by scanning electron microscopy operating in the mode for in situ energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectra.
A Pilot Study Verifying How the Curve Information Impacts on the Driver Performance with Cognition Model
Authors: Zhao Xiaohua , Guan Wei , Liu Xiaoming
Published: February 2013

Drivers' misjudgment is a significant issue for the curve safety. It is considered as a more influential factor than other traffic environmental conditions for inducing risk. The research suggested that the cognition theory could explain the process of drivers’ behavior at curves. In this simulator experiment, a principle cognition model was built to examine the rationality of this explanation. The core of this pilot study was using one of the driving decision strategies for braking at curves to verify the accuracy of the cognition model fundamentally. Therefore, the experiment designed three treatments of information providing modes. The result of the experiment presented that the warning information about curves in advance can move the position of first braking away from curves. This phenomenon is consistent with the model’s inference. Thus, the conclusion of this study indicates that the process of the drivers' behavior at curves can be explained by the cognition theory and represented by cognition model. In addition, the model’s characteristics and working parameters can be acquired by doing other research. Then based on the model it can afford the advice for giving the appropriate warning information that may avoid the driver’s mistake.
Accuracy of an Accelerated, Culture-Based Assay for Detection of Group BStreptococcus
Authors: Faro Jonathan P. , Bishop Karen , Riddle Gerald , Ramirez Mildred M. , Katz Allan R. , Turrentine Mark A. , Faro Sebastian
Published: February 2013

Objective. To determine the validity of a novel Group BStreptococcus(GBS) diagnostic assay for the detection of GBS in antepartum patients.Study Design. Women were screened for GBS colonization at 35 to 37 weeks of gestation. Three vaginal-rectal swabs were collected per patient; two were processed by traditional culture (commercial laboratory versus in-house culture), and the third was processed by an immunoblot-based test, in which a sample is placed over an antibody-coated nitrocellulose membrane, and after a six-hour culture, bound GBS is detected with a secondary antibody.Results. 356 patients were evaluated. Commercial processing revealed a GBS prevalence rate of 85/356 (23.6%). In-house culture provided a prevalence rate of 105/356 (29.5%). When the accelerated GBS test result was compared to the in-house GBS culture, it demonstrated a sensitivity of 97.1% and a specificity of 88.4%. Interobserver reliability for the novel GBS test was 88.2%.Conclusions. The accelerated GBS test provides a high level of validity for the detection of GBS colonization in antepartum patients within 6.5 hours and demonstrates a substantial agreement between observers.
Remarkable Role of Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase and Tryptophan Metabolites in Infectious Diseases: Potential Role in Macrophage-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Murakami Yuki , Hoshi Masato , Imamura Yukio , Arioka Yuko , Yamamoto Yasuko , Saito Kuniaki
Published: February 2013

Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), the L-tryptophan-degrading enzyme, plays a key role in the immunomodulatory effects on several types of immune cells. Originally known for its regulatory function during pregnancy and chronic inflammation in tumorigenesis, the activity of IDO1 seems to modify the inflammatory state of infectious diseases. The pathophysiologic activity of L-tryptophan metabolites, kynurenines, is well recognized. Therefore, an understanding of the regulation of IDO1 and the subsequent biochemical reactions is essential for the design of therapeutic strategies in certain immune diseases. In this paper, current knowledge about the role of IDO1 and its metabolites during various infectious diseases is presented. Particularly, the regulation of type I interferons (IFNs) production via IDO1 in virus infection is discussed. This paper offers insights into new therapeutic strategies in the modulation of viral infection and several immune-related disorders.
Gastric Duplication Cyst: Two Case Reports and Review of the Literature
Authors: Singh Jai P. , Rajdeo Heena , Bhuta Kalyani , Savino John A.
Published: February 2013

Background. Duplication of the alimentary tract is a rare congenital anomaly. Gastric duplication cysts (GDCs) represent 4% of all alimentary tract duplications, and approximately 67% manifest within the first year of life. Duplication cysts in adults are generally encountered as incidental findings at endoscopy or laparotomy. Herein, we report two rare cases of symptomatic GDC presenting in adults.Case 1. A 27-year-old male presented with a five-month history of back pain. Exam revealed mild epigastric tenderness with a vague palpable mass in left upper abdomen. CT scan showed 8 × 7.4 × 6 cm homogenous, nonseptated cystic mass posterosuperior to pancreatic tail. On laparotomy, a cystic mass measuring 11 × 8 cm was found, which was densely adherent to posterior wall of stomach suggestive of GDC.Case 2. A 28-year-old woman presented with epigastric pain associated with vomiting for 2 months. Exam revealed mild epigastric tenderness. CT scan showed four cystic lesions in the medial wall of distal stomach measuring approximately one cm each suggestive of duplication cysts. Exploratory laparotomy with antrectomy and truncal vagotomy with Billroth II reconstruction were performed. Pathology in both patients was diagnostic of GDC.Conclusion. GDC is a rare anomaly, and its presentation in adults is even rarer.
Effect of Acid‐ and Ultraviolet/Ozonolysis‐Treated MWCNTs on the Electrical and Mechanical Properties of Epoxy Nanocomposites as Bipolar Plate Applications
Authors: Rajendran Royan Nishata Royan , Sulong Abu Bakar , Sahari Jaafar , Suherman Hendra
Published: February 2013

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have a huge potential as conductive fillers in conductive polymer composites (CPCs), particularly for bipolar plate applications. These composites are prepared using singlefiller and multifiller reinforced multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) that have undergone a chemical functionalization process. The electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of these composites are determined and compared between the different functionalization processes. The results show that UV/O3‐treated functionalization is capable of introducing carboxylic functional groups on CNTs. Acid‐treated CNT composites give low electrical conductivity, compared with UV/O3‐treated and As‐produced CNTs. The in‐ and through‐plane electrical conductivities and flexural strength of multifiller EP/G/MWCNTs (As‐produced and UV/O3‐treated) achieved the US Department of Energy targets. Acid‐treated CNT composites affect the electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. These data indicate that the nanocomposites developed in this work may be alternative attributers of bipolar plate requirements.
Influence of the Steric Demand of Coligands on the Catalytic Activity of Nickel(II) Complexes in the Copolymerization of Ethene and Carbon Monoxide
Authors: Lindner Monika M. , Beckmann Udo , Frank Walter , Kläui Wolfgang
Published: February 2013

The copolymerization of ethene and carbon monoxide can be catalyzed with square planar arenidotriphenylphosphane nickel(II) complexes containing an N,O-chelate ligand. To examine the influence of the phosphorus ligand on the catalytic activity, five new nickel(II) complexes with P-ligands of different basicities and different steric demands were synthesized and fully characterized including the determination of the crystal structures of three of the complexes. The investigation of the catalytic activity of the new compounds showed a decisive influence of the steric properties of the P-ligand. A minimum steric demand is essential to ensure catalytic activity.
Towards Reviving Electroweak Baryogenesis with a Fourth Generation
Authors: Hou Wei-Shu , Kohda Masaya
Published: February 2013

Electroweak baryogenesis is an attractive scenario for explaining the baryon asymmetry of the universe. However, it does not work within the standard model due to two reasons: (1) the strength of CP violation from the Kobayashi-Maskawa mechanism with three generations is too small; (2) the electroweak phase transition is not first order for the experimentally allowed Higgs boson mass. We discuss possibilities to solve these problems by introducing a fourth generation of fermions and how electroweak baryogenesis might be revived. We also discuss briefly the recent observation of a Higgs-like boson with mass around 125 GeV, which puts the fourth generation in a difficult situation, and the possible way out.
Dendritic Cell Development: A Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Story
Authors: Moore Amanda J. , Anderson Michele K.
Published: February 2013

Dendritic cells (DCs) are essential components of the immune system and contribute to immune responses by activating or tolerizing T cells. DCs comprise a heterogeneous mixture of subsets that are located throughout the body and possess distinct and specialized functions. Although numerous defined precursors from the bone marrow and spleen have been identified, emerging data in the field suggests many alternative routes of DC differentiation from precursors with multilineage potential. Here, we discuss how the combinatorial expression of transcription factors can promote one DC lineage over another as well as the integration of cytokine signaling in this process.
Neuroimaging Diagnosis and the Collateral Circulation in Moyamoya Disease
Authors: Liu Wenhua , Xu Gelin , Liu Xinfeng
Published: February 2013

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is an uncommon cerebrovascular disease that is characterized by progressive stenosis of the terminal portion of the internal carotid artery and its main branches, which is accompanied by the development of dilated, fragile collateral vessels at the base of the brain. This review will present different neuroimaging modalities for the diagnosis of MMD. Importantly, we will discuss the role of hyperintense vessels on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery images and their contribution to the evaluation of collateral patterns in MMD patients. Additionally, this review will summarize these common collateral patterns of MMD assessed by conventional cerebral angiography, and the associations of these angiographic collateral patterns with cerebrovascular lesions, including ischemia and hemorrhage will also be reviewed.
Expanded Granulocyte/Monocyte Compartment in Myeloid-Specific Triple FoxO Knockout Increases Oxidative Stress and Accelerates Atherosclerosis in Mice
Authors: Tsuchiya Kyoichiro , Westerterp Marit , Murphy Andrew J. , Subramanian Vidya , Ferrante Anthony W. , Tall Alan R. , Accili Domenico
Published: February 2013

Rationale:

Increased neutrophil and monocyte counts are often associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, but their relationship to insulin sensitivity is unknown.

Objective:

To investigate the contribution of forkhead transcription factors (FoxO) in myeloid cells to neutrophil and monocyte counts, atherosclerosis, and systemic insulin sensitivity.

Methods and Results:

Genetic ablation of the 3 genes encoding FoxO isoforms 1, 3a, and 4, in myeloid cells resulted in an expansion of the granulocyte/monocyte progenitor compartment and was associated with increased atherosclerotic lesion formation in low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout mice. In vivo and ex vivo studies indicate that FoxO ablation in myeloid cells increased generation of reactive oxygen species. Accordingly, treatment with the antioxidant N-acetyl-
l
-cysteine reversed the phenotype, normalizing atherosclerosis.

Conclusions:

Our data indicate that myeloid cell proliferation and oxidative stress can be modulated via the FoxO branch of insulin receptor signaling, highlighting a heretofore-unknown link between insulin sensitivity and leukocytosis that can affect the predisposition to atherosclerosis.
NOAA's Second-Generation Global Medium-Range Ensemble Reforecast Dataset
Authors: Hamill Thomas M. , Bates Gary T. , Whitaker Jeffrey S. , Murray Donald R. , Fiorino Michael , Galarneau Thomas J. , Zhu Yuejian , Lapenta William
Published: February 2013

A multidecadal ensemble reforecast database is now available that is approximately consistent with the operational 0000 UTC cycle of the 2012 NOAA Global Ensemble Forecast System (GEFS). The reforecast dataset consists of an 11-member ensemble run once each day from 0000 UTC initial conditions. Reforecasts are run to +16 days. As with the operational 2012 GEFS, the reforecast is run at T254L42 resolution (approximately 1/2° grid spacing, 42 levels) for week +1 forecasts and T190L42 (approximately 3/4° grid spacing) for the week +2 forecasts. Reforecasts were initialized with Climate Forecast System Reanalysis initial conditions, and perturbations were generated using the ensemble transform with rescaling technique. Reforecast data are available from 1985 to present.

Reforecast datasets were previously demonstrated to be very valuable for detecting and correcting systematic errors in forecasts, especially forecasts of relatively rare events and longer-lead forecasts. What is novel about this reforecast dataset relative to the first-generation NOAA reforecast is that (i) a modern, currently operational version of the forecast model is used (the previous reforecast used a model version from 1998); (ii) a much larger set of output data has been saved, including variables relevant for precipitation, hydrologic, wind energy, solar energy, severe weather, and tropical cyclone forecasting; and (iii) the archived data are at much higher resolution.

The article describes more about the reforecast configuration and provides a few examples of how this second-generation reforecast data may be used for research and a variety of weather forecast applications.
Sociology of reconciliation: Learning from comparing violent conflicts and reconciliation processes
Authors: Trimikliniotis Nicos
Published: February 2013

This article aims at drawing on sociological insights into reconciliation processes which emerge out of ethnic, national and state conflicts. First, the concept of reconciliation is interrogated as an instrument for sociological enquiry. The article locates the concept’s lexical origins in western/northern Christian traditions and identifies the usages of religious connotations in secularised strands of conflict resolution theory and praxis. While acknowledging the problems involved in assuming a conceptual universality, the basic meaning of the concept is located in many different historical, religious and secular traditions across the globe. Once overcoming Christiano-centric and western/northern biases and limitations, reconciliation can be retrieved and operationalised as a sociological concept for understanding and comparing ethnically and other deeply divided societies. Second, the article argues for further development of sociological comparative perspectives on how societies deal with violent and divisive past, which enhances academic knowledge and may impact policy as regards reconciliation processes, both in terms of understanding the past as well as dealing with the present and future of post-conflict societies. A sociology of conflict and reconciliation offers frames for transferring knowledge and experience that transcends simplistic assumptions and enriches understanding of the complexities of conflict and its transformations.
Coming to terms with the native practitioner: Indigenous doctors in colonial service in South India, 1800–25
Authors: Brimnes Niels
Published: February 2013

This article explores the engagements between the colonial state and indigenous medical practitioners in the Madras Presidency in the early nineteenth century; a period characterised by openness and ambiguous relations. An analysis of textual representations of the ‘native practitioner’ reveals ambiguity. Often the practitioners were portrayed as representing flawed systems of knowledge, yet possessing valuable insight into specific medical practices. Texts written for internal administrative purposes tended, however, to view the native practitioner more as a resource for the colonial state than a representative of worthless bodies of knowledge. Turning to actual engagements with native practitioners a varied, context-sensitive picture emerges. In connection with the campaign to prevent smallpox, the native practitioner was envisaged as both a self-interested entrepreneur and a zealous bureaucratic servant. When an epidemic fever struck the southern part of the Presidency, it was suggested that the colonial authorities continue a pre-colonial practice and distribute native practitioners in the villages through grants in revenue. Finally, when cholera struck dramatically in south India from 1818 the colonial authorities resorted to extensive hiring of practitioners on a short-term basis. The variety of ways in which the colonial authorities came to terms with the native practitioner—from mainly dismissive accounts to praise of their usefulness in specific disease control—reminds us that we need to differentiate our understanding of the colonial encounter not only according to time and place but also according to administrative context.
Ubuntu in S. M. Kapwepwe’s Shalapo Canicandala
Authors: Mukuka Richard
Published: February 2013

The year is 1884. Somewhere in Central Africa is a vast Bantu kingdom known as luBemba. The people are abaBemba. Somewhere else, and unbeknownst to abaBemba, European nations are sharing African land including that of abaBemba. Consequent to this “scramble for Africa,” abaBemba find themselves in an arbitrary amalgamation of 70-plus ethnic groups. The amalgam is Northern Rhodesia. Bemba sociopolitical systems collapse. Young men are forced into mine labor for tax money. Mine townships bring together cultures from Africa, India, and Britain. For abaBemba, this experience is characterized by a multilayered psychological destabilization. Taking advantage of the onset of the written text, Bemba authors delineate for their kinsfolk an Afrocentric space around their new sociopolitical reality. These novelists are neither psychologists nor conventional philosophers; yet their literary treatment of the African psyche is profound. From one such novelist, this article draws insights for Afrocentric psychology.
Development of sol-gel-derived multi-wall carbon nanotube/hydroxyapatite nanocomposite powders for bone substitution
Authors: Hooshmand Tabassom , Abrishamchian Alireza , Najafi Farhood , Mohammadi Mohammadreza , Najafi Hossein , Tahriri Mohammadreza
Published: February 2013

Carbon nanotubes with unique physical and mechanical properties have shown great potential for biological applications, including tissue engineering and mimicking the structure and properties of human bones. In the present work, sol-gel synthesized nanocomposite powder of multi-wall carbon nanotube/hydroxyapatite characterized using field-emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy and thermal analyses. The results show homogenous dispersion of nanotube in well-crystallized hydroxyapatite ceramic matrix. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscope observations show the sodium dodecyl sulfate–adsorbed multi-wall nanotube almost wrapped completely by crystals of hydroxyapatite that will help better integration of bone substitute materials with the surrounding bone tissue. Eventually, in vitro study confirms the biocompatibility of composite powder comparable to monolithic hydroxyapatite.
Academic Institutions in Search of Quality: Local Orders and Global Standards
Authors: Paradeise Catherine , Thoenig Jean-Claude
Published: February 2013

Quality judgements in terms of academic standards of excellence required by external stakeholders such as labour markets and steering hierarchies obviously exert strong pressure on universities. Do they generate an ‘iron cage’ effect, imposing a passive and uniform conformity on global standards? The paper examines the organization of higher education and research set-ups with a strong lens. What does academic quality actually mean when observed in the field? How do universities and their subunits – professional schools, colleges, etc. – actually achieve what they call quality? A methodological and analytical framework is tested. Three sociological concepts – diversity, recognition and local order – make it possible to build four ideal types applicable to comparative inquiry. Such a typology identifies the interdependencies existing between how they position themselves with respect to quality dimensions and internal organizational measures. The paper contributes to a broader organizational study agenda: how do local orders face and deal with market and hierarchy dynamics in a global world of apparently increasing standardization under pressure from soft power. It questions the effect of the ‘iron cage’ hypothesis. It lists a series of changing patterns or dynamics between types of universities in terms of quality sensitivity, fabrication and content. Diversity and standardization in fact coexist.
Economic Theories of Medieval India
Authors: Khan Iqtidar Alam
Published: February 2013

This article tries to investigate as to what were the notions of economic theory informing the working of the state and society in medieval India in order to identify and explain the social contradictions manifested in Indian history. As a preliminary step in the direction of such an investigation, it aims at identifying the notions, popular, religious, as also those underlying rules framed by the sultans for regulating the economy in medieval India.
William James and psychical research: towards a radical science of mind
Authors: Sech Junior Alexandre , de Freitas Araujo Saulo , Moreira-Almeida Alexander
Published: February 2013

Traditional textbooks on the history of psychiatry and psychology fail to recognize William James’s investigations on psychic phenomena as a legitimate effort to understand the human mind. The purpose of this paper is to offer evidence of his views regarding the exploration of those phenomena as well as the radical, yet alternative, solutions that James advanced to overcome theoretical and methodological hindrances. Through an analysis of his writings, it is argued that his psychological and philosophical works converge in psychical research revealing the outline of a science of mind capable of encompassing psychic phenomena as part of human experience and, therefore, subject to scientific scrutiny.
Determinants of Self-Management Among Diabetic Patients
Authors: Tahmasebi Rahim , Noroozi Azita , Tavafian Sedighe Sadat
Published: February 2013

Diabetes self-management (DSM) is a complex behavior and various factors influence it. Despite continual recommendations to DSM, implementation of this behavior still remains a major health problem for diabetic patients. Identifying effective factors in DSM is useful to promote health in diabetic patients. The purpose of this study was to test the effects of individual and environmental factors on DSM. Path analysis was used to examine both one-way direct and indirect effects of 7 constructs and 3 demographic factors on DSM in this population (N = 396). Data were collected from a convenience sample of 104 (26.3%) males and 292 (73.7%) females with a median age 53 years. The final model provided a good fit to the data explaining 25% of the variance in DSM. Illness perception and provider–patient communication were the most effective factors in DSM. Knowledge and self-efficacy affected DSM indirectly via illness perception. The results of this study showed that effective DSM interventions should be designed to change illness perception and patient–provider communication, especially in patients with low duration of diabetes and low level of education.
The structural failures of the heavenly markets
Authors: Young Christopher W. , Eastman Wayne
Published: February 2013

Previous scholarship analyzing cross-sectional international data has noted that religious monopolies impede the efficiency of religious markets and that the benefits of competitive markets apply in religion as elsewhere. Our paper, analyzing U.S. state-level data, is premised on the complementary point that competitive markets in religion as elsewhere may fail if there are externalities, public goods, or asymmetries in information. In our model, we hypothesize that perfect competition will foster forms of religion that fail to create positive externalities and that in turn engender doubts about religious faith. We test empirically the Iannaccone hypothesis that more religious competition/diversity engenders more religious faith and our contrary hypothesis using state-level data showing overall levels of religious competition among Protestants provokes less religious faith.
Effects of Adolescent Physical Abuse, Exposure to Neighborhood Violence, and Witnessing Parental Violence on Adult Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Covey Herbert C. , Menard Scott , Franzese Robert J.
Published: February 2013

Research on the effects of adolescent physical abuse, witnessing domestic violence, and perceptions of community violence have generally, with few exceptions, found them to be predictive of subsequent negative behavioral outcomes, such as substance abuse, crime, and other problem behaviors. Less frequently studied is the relationship of these adverse adolescent experiences to adult socioeconomic statuses. This study utilizes longitudinal self-report data from the National Youth Survey Family Study to investigate how these three factors influence future socioeconomic statuses: marital status, educational attainment, employment, income, and wealth (net worth). Significant associations with adult socioeconomic statuses are found most often for physical abuse, but neighborhood violence is the only one of the three that is predictive of adult employment. Witnessing parental violence is associated with adult income and net worth. Limitations and policy implications of the present research, in the context of past research in this area, are considered.