bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomic and physiological responses to fishmeal substitution with plant proteins in formulated feed in farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Tacchi Luca , Secombes Christopher J , Bickerdike Ralph , Adler Michael A , Venegas Claudia , Takle Harald , Martin Samuel AM
Published: August 2012

Background

Aquaculture of piscivorous fish is in continual expansion resulting in a global requirement to reduce the dependence on wild caught fish for generation of fishmeal and fish oil. Plant proteins represent a suitable protein alternative to fish meal and are increasingly being used in fish feed. In this study, we examined the transcriptional response of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) to a high marine protein (MP) or low fishmeal, higher plant protein replacement diet (PP), formulated to the same nutritional specification within previously determined acceptable maximum levels of individual plant feed materials.

Results

After 77 days of feeding the fish in both groups doubled in weight, however neither growth performance, feed efficiency, condition factor nor organ indices were significantly different. Assessment of histopathological changes in the heart, intestine or liver did not reveal any negative effects of the PP diet. Transcriptomic analysis was performed in mid intestine, liver and skeletal muscle, using an Atlantic salmon oligonucleotide microarray (Salar_2, Agilent 4x44K). The dietary comparison revealed large alteration in gene expression in all the tissues studied between fish on the two diets. Gene ontology analysis showed, in the mid intestine of fish fed PP, higher expression of genes involved in enteritis, protein and energy metabolism, mitochondrial activity/kinases and transport, and a lower expression of genes involved in cell proliferation and apoptosis compared to fish fed MP. The liver of fish fed PP showed a lower expression of immune response genes but a higher expression of cell proliferation and apoptosis processes that may lead to cell reorganization in this tissue. The skeletal muscle of fish fed PP vs MP was characterized by a suppression of processes including immune response, energy and protein metabolism, cell proliferation and apoptosis which may reflect a more energy efficient tissue.

Conclusions

The PP diet resulted in significant effects on transcription in all the 3 tissues studied. Despite of these alterations, we demonstrated that high level of plant derived proteins in a salmon diet allowed fish to grow with equal efficiency as those on a high marine protein diet, and with no difference in biometric quality parameters.
Spontaneous splenic rupture in patient with metastatic melanoma treated with vemurafenib
Authors: Castellani Elisa , Covarelli Piero , Boselli Carlo , Cirocchi Roberto , Rulli Antonio , Barberini Francesco , Caracappa Daniela , Cini Carla , Desiderio Jacopo , Burini Gloria , Noya Giuseppe
Published: July 2012

Background

BRAF inhibitors such as vemurafenib are a new family of biological drugs, recently available to treat metastatic malignant melanoma.

Methods

We present the case of a 38-year-old man affected by metastatic melanoma who had been under treatment with vemurafenib for a few days. The patient suffered from sudden onset of abdominal pain due to intra-abdominal hemorrhage with profuse hemoperitoneum. An emergency abdominal sonography confirmed the clinical suspicion of a splenic rupture.

Results

The intraoperative finding was hemoperitoneum due to splenic two-step rupture and splenectomy was therefore performed. Histopathology confirmed splenic hematoma and capsule laceration, in the absence of metastasis.

Conclusions

This report describes the occurrence of a previously unreported adverse event in a patient with stage IV melanoma receiving vemurafenib.
A zoological catalogue of hunted reptiles in the semiarid region of Brazil
Authors: Nóbrega Alves Rômulo Romeu , Pereira Filho Gentil Alves , Silva Vieira Kleber , Silva Souto Wedson Medeiros , Mendonça Lívia Emanuelle Tavares , Montenegro Paulo Fernando Guedes Pereira , Almeida Waltécio de Oliveira , Silva Vieira Washington Luiz
Published: July 2012

The variety of interactions between human cultures and herpetofauna is the subject matter of Ethnoherpetology, a subdivision of Ethnozoology. In the semi-arid region of Brazil, many reptiles interact with human communities because of their utility or because of the risks they represent. These interactions have obvious implications for the conservation of reptiles from this region.In this context, ethnoherpetology studies are crucial because they serve as subsidies for guiding strategies for the handling and conservation of reptiles. This paper presents ethnozoological and taxonomic informations of hunted reptiles in the semiarid region of Brazil and analyse the implications on conservation that are related to the interactions between people and reptiles in this region. Taxonomic keys to identifying recorded reptiles are provided. Records of humans interacting with 38 reptile species that belong to 31 genuses and 16 families have been found. The groups with the largest numbers of recorded species were snakes (18 species), and this group was followed in number by lizards (13), chelonians (4), and crocodilians (3). The reptiles that were recorded may be used for the following purposes: medicinal purposes (24 species), food (13 species), ornamental or decorative purposes (11 species), in magical/religious practices (10 species), and as pets (10 species). Some species (n = 16) may have multiple uses. Furthermore, more than half of the species (n = 19) are commonly killed because they are considered potentially dangerous. Strategies for conserving the reptiles of the Brazilian semi-arid region must reconcile and integrate human and conservation needs.
The role of the maximum involvement of biopsy core in predicting outcome for patients treated with dose-escalated radiation therapy for prostate cancer
Authors: Murgic Jure , Stenmark Matthew H , Halverson Schuyler , Blas Kevin , Feng Felix Y , Hamstra Daniel A
Published: August 2012

Purpose

To evaluate the influence of the maximum involvement of biopsy core (MIBC) on outcome for prostate cancer patients treated with dose-escalated external beam radiotherapy (EBRT).

Methods and materials

The outcomes of 590 men with localized prostate cancer treated with EBRT (≥75 Gy) at a single institution were retrospectively analyzed. The influence of MIBC on freedom from biochemical failure (FFBF), freedom from metastasis (FFM), cause-specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS) was compared to other surrogates for biopsy tumor volume, including the percentage of positive biopsy cores (PPC) and the total percentage of cancer volume (PCV).

Results

MIBC correlated with PSA, T-stage, Gleason score, NCCN risk group, PPC, PCV, and treatment related factors. On univariate analysis, MIBC was prognostic for all endpoints except OS; with greatest impact in those with Gleason scores of 8–10. However, on multivariate analysis, MIBC was only prognostic for FFBF (hazard ratio [HR] 1.9, p = 0.008), but not for FFM (p = 0.19), CSS (p = 0.16), and OS (p = 0.99).

Conclusions

In patients undergoing dose-escalated EBRT, MIBC had the greatest influence in those with Gleason scores of 8–10 but provided no additional prognostic data as compared to PPC and PCV, which remain the preferable prognostic variables in this patient population.
Phytochemicals and biological studies of plants from the genus Balanophora
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Liu Zizhen , Qiao Wenlin , Cheng Ruiyang , Liu Bin , She Gaimei
Published: August 2012

This review focus on the phytochemical progress and biological studies of plants from the genus Balanophora (Balanophoraceae) over the past few decades, in which most plants growth in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Oceania, and nearly 20 species ranged in southwest China. These dioeciously parasitic plants are normally growing on the roots of the evergreen broadleaf trees, especially in the family of Leguminosae, Ericaceae, Urticaceae, and Fagaceae. The plants are mainly used for clearing away heat and toxic, neutralizing the effect of alcoholic drinks, and as a tonic for the treatment of hemorrhoids, stomachache and hemoptysis. And it has been used widely throughtout local area by Chinese people.

Cinnamic acid derivative tannins, possessing a phenylacrylic acid derivative (e. g. caffeoyl, coumaroyl, feruloyl or cinnamoyl), which connected to the C(1) position of a glucosyl unit by O-glycosidic bond, are the characteristic components in genus Balanophora. In addition, several galloyl, caffeoyl and hexahydroxydiphenoyl esters of dihydrochalcone glucosides are found in B. tobiracola, B. harlandii, and B. papuana. Other compounds like phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, terpenoids and sterols are also existed. And their biological activities, such as radical scavenging activities, HIV inhibiting effects, and hypoglycemic effects are highlighted in the review.
Carnitine deficiency presenting with encephalopathy and hyperammonemia in a patient receiving chronic enteral tube feeding: a case report
Authors: Ling Peter , Lee Douglas J , Yoshida Eric M , Sirrs Sandra
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Carnitine is an essential cofactor in mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation. Carnitine deficiency results in accumulation of non-oxidized fatty acyl-coenzyme A molecules, and this inhibits intra-mitochondrial degradation of ammonia. Hyperammonemia may lead to encephalopathy. This scenario has been previously reported.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 47-year-old Caucasian man who had sustained a remote motor vehicle accident injury and relied on long-term tube feeding with a commercial product that wascarnitine-free. He was also on phenytoin therapy for control of his chronic seizures. He developed significant acute psychological and behavioral changes superimposed on his chronic neurological impairment. His ammonia level was found to be elevated at 75 to 100μmol/L (normal <35μmol/L). Phenytoin was found to be at a supra-therapeutic level of 143μmol/L (therapeutic range 40–80μmol/L). After adjusting the dose of phenytoin, other pharmacological and hepatic causes of his hyperammonemia and subacute encephalopathy were excluded. His carnitine levels were found to be low. After initiating carnitine supplementation at 500mg twice daily, the patient’s mental status improved, and his ammonia level improved to 53–60μmol/L.

Conclusion

This case illustrates the importance of avoiding carnitine deficiency and anti-convulsant toxicity in tube-fed patients encountered in hospital wards and nursing homes. These patients should have their carnitine levels assessed regularly, and supplementation should be provided as necessary. Manufacturers of enteral feeds and formulas should consider adding carnitine to their product lines.
Induction of microRNA-214-5p in human and rodent liver fibrosis
Authors: Iizuka Masashi , Ogawa Tomohiro , Enomoto Masaru , Motoyama Hiroyuki , Yoshizato Katsutoshi , Ikeda Kazuo , Kawada Norifumi
Published: August 2012

Background

miRNAs are non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression in a wide range of biological contexts, including a variety of diseases. The present study clarified the role of miR-214-5p in hepatic fibrogenesis using human clinical tissue samples, livers from rodent models, and cultured hepatic stellate cells.

Methods

The expression of miR-214-5p and genes that are involved in liver fibrosis were analyzed in hepatitis C virus-infected human livers, rodent fibrotic livers, a human stellate cell line (LX-2), and the cells from intact mouse livers using real-time PCR. The effect of miR-214-5p overexpression in LX-2 cells on cell function was investigated. Twist-1 expression in the liver tissues of mouse models and primary-cultured stellate cells was also analyzed.

Results

miR-214-5p was upregulated in human and mouse livers in a fibrosis progression–dependent manner. miR-214-5p expression increased during the culture-dependent activation of mouse primary stellate cells and was significantly higher in stellate cells than in hepatocytes. The overexpression of miR-214-5p in LX-2 cells increased the expression of fibrosis-related genes, such as matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9, α-smooth muscle actin, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. TGF-β stimulation induced miR-214-5p in LX-2 cells. Twist-1 was increased in fibrotic mouse livers and induced during mouse stellate cell activation.

Conclusion

miR-214-5p may play crucial roles in the activation of stellate cells and the progression of liver fibrosis. Twist-1 may regulate miR-214-5p expression in the liver, particularly in stellate cells.
Phenetic and genetic structure of tsetse fly populations (Glossina palpalis palpalis) in southern Ivory Coast
Authors: Kaba Dramane , Ravel Sophie , Acapovi-Yao Geneviève , Solano Philippe , Allou Koffi , Bosson-Vanga Henriette , Gardes Laetitia , N’Goran Eliezer Kouakou , Schofield Christopher John , Koné Moussa , Dujardin Jean-Pierre
Published: July 2012

Background

Sleeping sickness, transmitted byG. p. palpalis, is known to be present in the Ivory Coast.G. p. palpalishas recently been reported to occur in several places within the town of Abidjan, including: (i) the Banco forest, (ii) the Abobo Adjamé University campus and (iii) the zoological park. Could these three places be treated sequentially, as separate tsetse populations, or should they be taken as one area comprising a single, panmictic population?

Methods

The amount of gene flow between these places provides strategic information for vector control. It was estimated by the use of both microsatellite DNA and morphometric markers. The idea was to assess the interest of the faster and much less expensive morphometric approach in providing relevant information about population structure. Thus, to detect possible lack of insect exchange between these neighbouring areas of Abidjan, we used both genetic (microsatellite DNA) and phenetic (geometric morphometrics) markers on the same specimens.

Using these same markers, we also compared these samples with specimens from a more distant area of south Ivory Coast, the region of Aniassué (186 km north from Abidjan).

Results

Neither genetic nor phenetic markers detected significant differentiation between the three AbidjanG. p. palpalissamples. Thus, the null hypothesis of a single panmictic population within the city of Abidjan could not be rejected, suggesting the control strategy should not consider them separately. The markers were also in agreement when comparingG. p. palpalisfrom Abidjan with those of Aniassué, showing significant divergence between the two sites.

Conclusions

Both markers suggested that a successful control of tsetse in Abidjan would require the three Abidjan sites to be considered together, either by deploying control measures simultaneously in all three sites, or by a continuous progression of interventions following for instance the "rolling carpet" principle. To compare the geometry of wing venation of tsetse flies is a cheap and fast technique. Agreement with the microsatellite approach highlights its potential for rapid assessment of population structure.
Severe Plasmodium vivax malaria among sudanese children at New Halfa Hospital, Eastern Sudan
Authors: Mahgoub Hyder , Gasim Gasim I , Musa Imad R , Adam Ishag
Published: July 2012

Background

There are few published reports on severe Plasmodium vivax malaria in Africa.

Methods

Clinical pattern/manifestations of severe P. vivax were described in children admitted at New Halfa Hospital in Sudan between September 2009-December 2011.

Results

Eighteen children were admitted at the hospital during the study period with different manifestations of severe P. vivax malaria namely: severe anaemia (6, 33.3%), jaundice (5, 27.8%), thrombocytopenia (4, 22.2%), hypotension (3, 16.7%), cerebral malaria (2, 11.1%), epistaxis (2, 11.1%), renal impairment (1, 5.5%), hypogylcaemia and more than one manifestation (5, 27.8%).

By day 2, all patients were asymptomatic, a parasitaemic and had started oral quinine and primaquine. There was no death among these patients

Conclusion

Severe P. vivax malaria is an existing entity in eastern Sudan. Further studies are required to understand emergence of severe P. vivax malaria.
Perceptions of the ankle brachial index amongst podiatrists registered in Western Australia
Authors: Chen Pamela Y , Lawford Kaye M , Shah Naiya , Pham Julie , Bower Virginia M
Published: July 2012

Background

The ankle brachial index (ABI) is an objective diagnostic tool that is widely used for the diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease. Despite its usefulness, it is evident within the literature that many practitioners forgo using this screening tool due to limiting factors such as time. There is also no recommended technique for ABI measurement. The purpose of this study is to investigate the perceptions of the use of ABI clinically among Western Australian podiatrists.

Methods

This study was a cross sectional survey which evaluated the perceptions of the ABI amongst registered podiatrists in Western Australia. The study sample was obtained from the register of podiatrists listed with the Podiatrists Registration Board of Western Australia. Podiatrists were contacted by telephone and invited to participate in a telephone questionnaire. Chi‐square tests were performed to determine if there was a statistically significant relationship between use of the ABI and podiatrists' profile which included: sector of employment; geographical location; and length of time in practice.

Results

There is a statistically significant relationship (p=0.004) between podiatrists' profile and the use of ABI, with higher usage in the tertiary hospital setting than in private practice. Length of time spent in practice had no significant impact on ABI usage (p=0.098). Time constraints and lack of equipment were key limiting factors to performing the ABI, and no preferred technique was indicated.

Conclusion

Western Australian podiatrists agree that the ABI is a useful tool for lower limb vascular assessment, however, various factors influence uptake in the clinical setting. This study suggests that a podiatrists' profile has a significant influence on the use of the ABI, which may be attributed to different patient types across the various settings. The influence of time spent in practice on ABI usage may be attributed to differences in clinical training and awareness of lower limb pathology over time. The authors recommend publication of ‘best practice’ guidelines to ABI performance, as well as further education and financial rebates from health organizations to facilitate increased utility of the ABI based on the findings of this study.
Sexually dimorphic effects of oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) variants on Harm Avoidance
Authors: Stankova Trayana , Eichhammer Peter , Langguth Berthold , Sand Philipp G
Published: July 2012

Background

Recent research has suggested that oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) variants may account for individual differences in social behavior, the effects of stress and parenting styles. Little is known, however, on a putative role of the gene in heritable temperamental traits.

Methods

We addressed effects of two common OXTR variants, rs237900 and rs237902, on personality dimensions in 99 healthy subjects using the Temperament and Character Inventory.

Results

When sex was controlled for and an OXTR genotype*sex interaction term was included in the regression model, 11% of the variance in Harm Avoidance could be explained (uncorrected p ≤ 0.01). Female carriers of the minor alleles scored highest, and a novel A217T mutation emerged in the most harm avoidant male participant.

Conclusions

Findings lend support to a modulatory effect of common OXTR variants on Harm Avoidance in healthy caucasian women and invite resequencing of the gene in anxiety phenotypes to identify more explanatory functional variation.
Intrusive memories of trauma in PTSD and addiction
Authors: Reynolds Martina , Nayak Sheena , Kouimtsidis Christos
Published: August 2012

Aims and method

To study intrusive phenomena relating to traumatic experiences in a community sample seeking treatment for substance use disorder and an in-patient sample from an addiction in-patient detoxification service in London. Perceived effect of drugs and drug use on traumatic intrusion and memory experiences was also analysed. The study was conducted using a semi-structured patient interview comprising a series of questionnaires.

Results

The most frequently identified traumatic memories were those of traumatic bereavements. Substance use appears to have had the effect of dampening the memories for those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and significantly more individuals reported that their memories were less vivid and less distressing before they ceased substance use.

Clinical implications

The findings suggest that continued substance use could in part be motivated by its capacity to dampen distressing memories within the PTSD group. This should be addressed within a treatment plan of comorbid PTSD.
Masters of Adaptation: Paul Bowles, the Beats, and “Fellaheen Orientalism”
Authors: Wilson Rob
Published: July 2012

This essay aims to think through the worldly presence of two important and culturally influential American writers in the cultural contact zones of Tangier and North Africa: Paul Bowles and Jack Kerouac. It contrasts their differing attitudes toward “conversion” and toward the implicit poetics and politics of converting the writing subject into a medium of worlded multicultural otherness and/or the consolidation of selfhood and cultural-political belief in such settings. In Cold War contexts threatened with the allure and bad faith of orientalism and the romantic sublime, the stylistic austerity of Bowles is countered by the mimetic exuberance of Kerouac in world-cultural contact zones from San Francisco and Mexico City to Paris and Tangier. Resonances of stance and style are brought forward in text and context, urging an overall contrast between modernist and Beat writers on the transatlantic world edge where Christian and Islamic mores interact, fuse, and clash.
Three Works on the Politics and Possibilities of Hip-Hop Now
Authors: Gamso Nicholas
Published: July 2012

This essay considers the political efficacy of hip-hop, as genre and as lifestyle, three decades after it emerged from the South Bronx and as its artists and cultural critics variously mourn, endure, and embrace its institutionalization. I look at three recent critical works on hip-hop: Paul Gilroy's 2011 Darker than Blue, which sees in the genre empty posturing and codes of conspicuous consumption; the 2012 edition of Murray Forman and Mark Anthony Neal's anthology That's the Joint! The Hip-Hop Studies Reader, which with a wide array of essays and interviews seeks to establish the contours of a discipline that's lost its novelty but continues to evolve; and Nitasha Tamar Sharma's 2010 ethnography Hip Hop Desis, which explores hip-hop culture among South Asian American youths who found in connoisseurship, collaboration, and performance a language for negotiating race and asserting identity. In particular, this essay takes up a charge issued by Gilroy in several works, that reductive racial politics are promoted by black Atlantic popular culture and by members of the academy. I argue on the contrary that the proliferation of hip-hop's technologies, language, and ethic of collaboration remains a viable political tool and meaningful artistic gesture—one that in overlooked contexts endorses Gilroy's views and engages in a rigorous critique of race.
Social policy learning and diffusion in China: the rise of welfare regions?
Authors: Shi Shih-Jiunn
Published: July 2012

This article offers an account of the peculiar phenomenon of social policy learning in China, and illustrates the situations in which local policy learning can either facilitate, or constrain, the capacity of the central government to monitor social policy development. Based on analyses of the urban pension reform and the introduction of the Minimum Living Standard Scheme, the article concludes that local activism has become an eclectic tool for policy learning and diffusion leading to subnationalisation of social protection, which poses a challenge to the central government in its efforts of coherent social policy governance.
Thin-layer Steam Distillation of Fermented Grains: Effects of Steam Flow Rate and Temperature
Authors: Chen Jingju , Li Zhanyong , Xu Qing , Song Jitian , Ye Jingsheng
Published: August 2012

Bioethanol was obtained by distillation of solid-state fermented biomass. In this process, the objective material is ethanol and it is not necessary to consider other contents, like aromatic compounds, as essential in Chinese traditional alcohol distillation. In this paper, the characteristics of steam distillation of fermented grains were investigated and interpreted by means of steam drying. Two criteria were defined to evaluate the process unit energy consumption. The results indicated that the ethanol removal rate is improved with an increase of steam flow rate and the unit energy consumption is higher. But with an increase of inlet steam temperature, the constant distillation rate keeps invariant, and the unit energy consumption is lower.
Application of box-behnken design to the extraction of flavonoid fraction of Schizophyllum commune and the empirical kinetic study
Authors: Teoh Yi. Peng , Mat Don Mashitah , Ujang Salmiah
Published: August 2012

This paper describes the use of the Box–Behnken experimental design to optimize the extraction parameters for producing maximum yield and total flavonoid content (TFC) from S. commune mycelia extract. The range of the independent variables, such as methanol-water concentration (0-100% v/v), extraction temperature (25-65°C), and mixing rate (0-250 rpm) were identified by a first set of single factor experiments. The actual values of the independent variables coded at three-level were selected based on the results of single factor experiments. Results showed that 3.0% extraction yield and 1.1 g% TFC were obtained under extraction condition of 84.6% (v/v) methanol-water concentration, extraction temperature 40.5°C, and mixing rate 162 rpm, respectively. In such condition, the error percentage between experimental and predicted data was 0.11 to 0.82%, which was less than 1%, thus indicating that the suitability of the models developed in optimizing the extraction conditions. The extraction mechanism was also investigated using a parabolic diffusion model, which described the washing and diffusion-controlled step. The proposed empirical model was valid with MSE value less than 10%.
Limit and Unlimitedness in the Philebus: An Argument for the Gadamerian Reading
Authors: Lynch Greg
Published: August 2012

In ‘The Limits of Being in the Philebus’, Russell Dancy argues that the Philebus is incoherent because a central concept - that of the apeiron (the unlimited) - functions entirely differently in the discussions of the ‘Heavenly Tradition’ and the ‘Fourfold Division’. I argue that a phenomenological reading of the type developed by Hans-Georg Gadamer, one according to which ‘limit’ and ‘unlimitedness’ describe the way entities appear when approached with certain concepts, shows Dancy’s worry of incoherence to be unfounded. On this reading, in both the Heavenly Tradition and the Fourfold Dividsion for a thing to be apeiron is for it to escape comprehension due to its appearing in terms of an indefinite plurality rather than a defined (limited) unity. I argue further that this interpretation allows us to properly understand the methodological character of Plato’s discussion. His account aims to help us distinguish the damaging instances of apeiron from the benign and to show how the former can be avoided.
The gap between the perception and production of tones by American learners of Mandarin – An intralingual perspective
Authors: Yang, Bei
Published: August 2012

Linguists have predominantly maintained that perception precedes production (Dinnsen 1983), an assertion also accepted by those studying second language acquisition (Flege 1995). However, an observation of acquisition of tones in Chinese as a second language suggests that American learners make different tonal mistakes in perception and production. This study explores tonal perception and production referring to the sound system of Mandarin, since a tone has a close relationship with an initial that is an onset and a final that is a rhyme within a syllable in Mandarin. The research instrument has 84 monosyllables that are representative according to the relationship among initials, finals and tones. Twenty-five American learners of Chinese in second-semester Chinese class and 11 learners of Chinese in fourth-semester Chinese class participated in this study. A two-way mixed ANOVA is the main statistical method used to analyze the acquisition data. The results reveal that tonal production is better than tonal perception. The error distribution of perception is influenced not only by tonal features, but also by initial features and final structures. For production, however, initial and final features do not influence tones. Therefore, the paper argues that tones are perceived at the phonological level and produced at the phonetic level and it takes L2 learners longer time to acquire phonological features of tones.
Plasma homocysteine and the risk of venous thromboembolism: insights from the FIELD study
Authors: Herrmann Markus , Whiting Malcolm J. , Veillard Anne-Sophie , Ehnholm Christian , Sullivan David R. , Keech Anthony C. ,   for the FIELD study investigators
Published: August 2012

Background:The lipid-lowering effect of fenofibrate is accompanied by a rise in plasma homocysteine (HCY), a potential risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE). This study investigated the relationship between HCY and the risk of VTE in patients treated with fenofibrate.

Methods:The relationship between HCY and deep-vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism was investigated in 9522 participants of the 5-year Fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes (FIELD) trial. All subjects received fenofibrate during a 6-week active run-in phase before randomization. A Cox proportional-hazards model was used to assess the effect of HCY on risk of venous thromboembolic events.

Results:During active-drug run-in, HCY rose on average by 6.5 μmol/L, accompanied by a substantial rise in plasma creatinine (+12%). Fenofibrate-induced changes in HCY and creatinine were fully reversible in the placebo group but persisted in the treatment group until reversing at the end of therapy. During follow-up, 1.8% had at least one episode of deep-vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism: 103 on fenofibrate and 68 on placebo (log-rank p=0.006). In multivariate analysis, every 5 μmol/L higher baseline HCY was associated with 19% higher risk of VTE. Fenofibrate treatment was associated with 52% higher risk, but the change in HCY with fenofibrate was not significantly associated with VTE after adjustment for baseline HCY.

Conclusions:Hyperhomocysteinemia is prospectively associated with VTE. Fenofibrate may predispose individuals with high pretreatment HCY towards VTE. The fenofibrate-induced increase in HCY did not, however, explain the risk associated with fenofibrate therapy.
The usefulness of cystatin C and related formulae in pediatrics
Authors: Filler Guido , Huang Shih-Han S. , Yasin Abeer
Published: August 2012

Serum creatinine does not share the properties of an ideal marker of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) like inulin, but continues to be the most widely used endogenous marker of GFR. In the search of a better biomarker of GFR, the small molecular weight protein cystatin C has been introduced with features more similar to that of inulin, such as constant production and no non-renal elimination. However, it has not enjoyed widespread use despite its significantly improved diagnostic performance in the detection of impaired GFR and its independence of body composition. A variety of formulae based on either cystatin C or creatinine or both have been developed to estimate GFR. We summarize the currently used methods of GFR measurement, their limitations and analytical errors. The review also summarizes the history, features and the feasibility of cystatin C measurements as well as the most widely used formulae for the estimation of GFR in children. The diagnostic performance of the cystatin C derived eGFR formulae at various levels of GFR is also discussed. An eGFR formula derived from pooled studies analyzing both creatinine and cystatin C, and using a biology-based mathematical approach may be advantageous.
Elevated liver enzymes resulting from an interaction between Raltegravir and Panax ginseng: a case report and brief review
Authors: Mateo-Carrasco Héctor , Gálvez-Contreras María C. , Fernández-Ginés Francisco D. , Nguyen Timothy V.
Published: August 2012

Background: In the last decade, some evidence has arisen supporting the usefulness of Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng, fam. Araliaceae) as a complementary remedy in patients receiving antiretroviral therapy. However, its role in current therapeutics remains unclear.

Methods: The patient was admitted for an acute elevation of liver enzymes, marked jaundice, and significant weight loss after taking ginseng-based tablets starting approximately 39 days prior. His past medical history (PMH) was also significant for HIV+, long-term hepatitis C, an episode of mitochondrial toxicity, and several comorbidities. His outpatient medications included raltegravir 400 mg plus lopinavir/ritonavir 400/100 mg twice daily, aspirin 100 mg daily, and esomeprazole 40 mg daily as needed.

Results: The cessation of the ginseng lozenges led to a progressive improvement in the performance status and laboratory values. Both the Hansten and Horn nomogram and the Roussel Uclaf Causality Assessment Method indicated that the association between the ginseng medicine and the liver injury was probable (six points).

Conclusions: We suggest that ginseng is involved in the episode through an interaction resulting in elevated plasma concentrations of raltegravir. As a consequence, clinicians should be alert when managing patients on other CYP3A4-metabolized drugs or previous liver-damaging conditions. However, larger studies are required to explicitly clarify these statements.
Achievable sets in ℤ
n
Authors: Sankar Krishanu Roy
Published: August 2012

What sets A ⊂ ℤ
n
can be written in the form
(K-K) ∩ ℤ
n
, where K is a compact subset of ℝ
n
such that K+ℤ
n
= ℝ
n
? Such sets A are called achievable, and it is known that if A is achievable, then 〈A〉 = ℤ
n
. This condition completely characterizes achievable sets for n = 1, but not much is known for n ≥ 2. We attempt to characterize achievable sets further by showing that with any finite, symmetric set A ⊂ ℤ
n
containing zero, we may associate a graph 𝒢(A). Then if A is achievable, we show that the set associated to some connected component of 𝒢(A) is achievable. In two dimensions, we can strengthen this theorem. Further generalizations and open questions are discussed. Throughout, the language and formalism of algebraic topology are useful.
Rational production of veneer by IR-heating of green wood during peeling: Modeling experiments
Authors: Dupleix Anna , Ould Ahmedou Sid’ Ahmed , Bleron Laurent , Rossi Frédéric , Hughes Mark
Published: August 2012

Heating green wood logs by infrared (IR) radiation during peeling for veneer production has been numerically simulated, focusing on the heating kinetics of a green wood cylinder rotating with a decreasing radius. The results confirm those of previous experiments, that this kind of heating is a promising alternative to soaking wood prior to peeling. The model integrates the green wood parameters such as moisture content, density, distribution and ratios of earlywood and latewood, on the one hand, and the peeling conditions of veneer thickness and peeling speed, on the other. The following heat transfer processes were considered: conduction within the bolt, external heating by the IR source, and convection between the bolt surface and the external environment. The outputs were the temperatures of the bolt surface and of layers several millimeters deep. For maximal heat penetration, the bolt should turn in front of the IR source before cutting starts and the IR source should be positioned at the greatest angular distance ahead of the knife. Several heating scenarios could be simulated by the model, thus it is a useful decision-making tool for the design of an in-line IR heating system installed on the peeling lathe.
Odd Repdigits to Small Bases Are Not Perfect
Authors: Broughan Kevin A. , Zhou Qizhi
Published: August 2012

We demonstrate, by considering each base in the range 2 through 9, that
Mean-Value Theorems for Multiplicative Arithmetic Functions of Several Variables
Authors: Ushiroya Noboru
Published: August 2012

Let

if this limit exists. We first generalize the Wintner theorem and then consider the multiplicative case by expressing the mean-value as an infinite product over all prime numbers. In addition, we study the mean-value of a function of the form
The (r1,...,rp)-Stirling Numbers of the Second Kind
Authors: Mihoubi Miloud , Maamra Mohammed Said
Published: August 2012

Let
Nanoclusters in magnetoresistance
Authors: Tao Jing
Published: August 2012

Electronic phase separation is one of the most exciting findings during the study of strongly correlated electron systems in past decades. Inhomogeneities at the nanoscale have been proven to not only play a key role in the material properties but also challenge the fundamental concepts of condensed matter physics. In rare earth doped manganites, a nanoscale phase with unique structural modulations has attracted particular attention because of its relationship with the renowned behavior of the material, colossal magnetoresistance (CMR). Direct observations of the nanoscale phases are usually difficult but necessary to unravel the controversies and unveil the underlying physics in this case. In this review paper, recent achievements of direct imaging of the nanoscale phase are shown by using advanced transmission electron microscopic techniques correlated with the material property measurements. Based on those results, the relationship between the nanoscale phase and the CMR effect was established, and unexpected magnetic and physical properties of the nanoscale phase were found. Although the microscopic origin of the nanoscale phase is not fully interpreted yet, the findings here shed light on the pathway to a deeper understanding of the mechanism of CMR and other properties in these materials.
Effect of ultrashort laser microstructuring of enamel and dentin surfaces on bond strengths in orthodontics and conservative dentistry
Authors: Lorenzo María de la Cruz , Portillo María , Albaladejo Alberto , García Ana , de Aldana Javier R. Vázquez , Moreno Pablo
Published: August 2012

The improvement of adhesion properties in orthodontics and conservative dentistry still remains an open issue. In this work, dentin and enamel surfaces have been totally conditioned by means of ultrashort pulsed laser microstructuring (wavelength: 795 nm, pulse duration: 120 fs, repetition rate: 1 kHz, maximum mean power: 1 W) in order to assess the procedure as an alternative to conventional techniques (acid etching and Er:YAG processing) for clinical practice. Molar dentin surfaces and premolar specimens were used for the study. Adhesive bond strengths were evaluated by means of microtensile bond strength (μTBS) and shear bond strength (SBS) tests of a total etch adhesive system to microstructured dentin and enamel, respectively. The results were related to scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations of the processed and failure surfaces. Bonding strengths were found to be comparable to other conditioning techniques and sometimes even higher. This makes femtosecond laser conditioning of dental tissues a suitable procedure for clinical practice of orthodontics and conservative dentistry.
Was ist Religion? Kulturwissenschaftliche Überlegungen zum Gegenstand der Religionswissenschaft
Authors: Bergunder Michael
Published: August 2012

Die Religionswissenschaft kann sich nicht auf einen gemeinsamenGegenstand einigen. Bei genauerem Hinsehen zeigt sich jedoch, dass inder bisherigen Diskussion ein konsensfähiges zeitgenössisches Alltagsverständnisvon „Religion“ vorausgesetzt wird, das aber unerklärt und unreflektiert blieb.Im Rahmen eines kulturwissenschaftlichen Ansatzes ist es möglich, dieses Alltagsverständnisso zu konzeptualisieren, dass es als historischer Gegenstand derReligionswissenschaft etabliert werden kann. Dazu wird insbesondere auf dietheoretischen Ansätze von Ernesto Laclau, Judith Butler und Michel Foucaultzurückgegriffen. Die vorgestellten Überlegungen sind unmittelbar anschlussfähigan die postkolonialen Debatten und ermöglichen dadurch zugleich, dasKonzept eines „europäischen Religionsbegriffs“ zugunsten eines globalen Verständnisseszu überwinden.
Radionuclide behaviour in the near-field of a geological repository for spent nuclear fuel
Authors: Metz V. , Geckeis H. , González-Robles E. , Loida A. , Bube C. , Kienzler B.
Published: July 2012

Even though chemical processes related to the corrosion of spent nuclear fuel in a deep geological repository are of complex nature, knowledge on underlying mechanisms has very much improved over the last years. As a major result of numerous studies it turns out that alteration of irradiated fuel is significantly inhibited under the strongly reducing conditions induced by container corrosion and consecutive H2 production. In contrast to earlier results, radiolysis driven fuel corrosion and oxidative dissolution appears to be less relevant for most repository concepts. The protective hydrogen effect on corrosion of irradiated fuel has been evidenced in many experiments. Still, open questions remain related to the exact mechanism and the impact of potentially interfering naturally occurring groundwater trace components. Container corrosion products are known to offer considerable reactive surface area in addition to engineered buffer and backfill material. In combination, waste form, container corrosion products and backfill material represent strong barriers for radionuclide retention and retardation and thus attenuate radionuclide release from the repository near-field.
Understanding the Impact of Porosity and Pore Structure in Ultra Low Dielectric Constant Organosilicate Glasses
Authors: Hsu Irene J. , Vrtis Raymond N. , Al-Rashid Jennifer E. , Mallikarjunan Anupama , Theodorou Kathleen E. , Zielinski John M.
Published: July 2012

Recently there have been a number of reports indicating concern relating to the effect of porosity, pore size distribution, and pore interconnectivity on the integration of highly porous ultra low-k organosilicate glasses (OSGs) as back-end-of-line (BEOL) interconnect dielectrics. In an effort to address these concerns a number of options to control the skeleton and pore structure of OSGs have been proposed, from adding alternative OSG precursors to alternative porogen precursors. In all these options there is a need to balance pore structure modification with critical film properties such as dielectric constant and mechanical strength. In this context, this paper examines porosity and its impact on film properties for highly porous ultra low dielectric constant films. A series of PDEMS® porous OSG films were deposited by plasma enchanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) from DEMS® precursor (diethoxymethylsilane) and porogen ATRP (alpha-terpenine). The percent porosity and pore interconnectivity of these films relative to the dielectric constant were measured by ellipsometric porosimetry (EP) and positron annihilation spectroscopy (PALS) respectively. Porosity and pore-size distribution for films deposited using several different species (structure former or porogen precursors) were examined using EP in an effort to understand the impact of the chemical nature of the precursor on pore morphology. Results from these depositions show that it is possible to deposit films with smaller pores using alternative structure formers (ASFs) with bulky organic groups, although there are tradeoffs with respect to other film characteristics. The addition of a separate porogen (ATRP) to the ASF lowered the dielectric constant and the addition of DEMS® precursor to the ASF/ATRP mix gave the films added structural integrity and mechanical strength. Such a fundamental understanding of structure-property relationships will help support successful integration of these porous OSG films.
A novel polymer technology for underfill
Authors: Suzuki Osamu , Sato Toshiyuki , Czubarow Paul , Son David
Published: July 2012

Capillary type underfill is still the mainstream underfill for mass production flip chip applications. Flip chip packages are migrating to ultra low-k, Pb-free, 3D and fine pitch packages. Underfill selection is becoming more critical. This paper discusses the performance and potential of underfills using a novel organic-inorganic hybrid polymer technology.

Compared to eutectic and high lead solder, tin-silver-copper solder has lower C.T.E., higher elasticity and greater brittleness. In light of these properties, it is generally better to select high Tg and lower CTE underfill in order to prevent bump fatigue during reliability testing. Given the brittleness of low-k dielectric layers of flip chips, the destruction of low-k layers by stress inside the flip chip packages has become a major issue. Underfills for low-k packages should have low stress, and the warpage should be small. It is expected that as the low-k trend expands, the underfill is required to provide less stress. Low Tg underfill shows lower warpage. New chemical technologies have been developed to address the needs of underfills for low-k/Pb-free flip chip packages, specifically organic-inorganic hybrid polymer compounds. The organic-inorganic hybrid polymer provides excellent cure properties which enable a balanced combination of low stress and good bump protection. The material properties of the underfill were characterized using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermo-Mechanical Analysis (TMA), and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA). A daisy-chained test vehicle was used for reliability testing. A detailed study is presented on the underfill properties, reliability data, as well as finite element modeling results.
Systematic investigation of the aqueous processing of CdSe quantum dots and CuS nanoparticles for potential bio-medical applications.
Authors: Crespo Raquel Feliciano , Perales-Perez Oscar , Bailon-Ruiz Sonia J. , Guinel Maxime J-F
Published: July 2012

Semiconductor quantum dots are considered very promising candidates for bio-imaging and diagnosis applications because of their tunable optical properties and good optical stability in aqueous phase. Any practical application of these materials will rely on the viability of their simple and direct synthesis in aqueous phase with no need for toxic and unstable organic media. The optical properties of CdSe quantum dots and CuS nanoparticles are desirable in bio-imaging and cell sorting applications because of their tunable photoluminescence at the visible range. The present work addresses the synthesis of CdSe quantum dots and CuS nanoparticles via an optimized, simple and scalable aqueous processing route at low temperatures. The tunability of the optical properties was achieved by a suitable control of the citrate/Cd mole ratio, temperature of synthesis (20-90°C) and reaction time (0-1 hour). In the case of CuS, the strong plasmonic absorption offers the opportunity to investigate this material as a photothermal coupling agent for photothermal therapy. The intensity of the plasmonic absorption was enhanced by selecting an appropriate sulfide precursor (Na2S, Thioglycolic acid), temperature of synthesis (90-120°C) and reaction time. Nanocrystals were characterized by x-ray diffraction, UV-VIS, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy techniques and electron microscopy. The effects of the synthesis conditions on the crystal size and the corresponding functional properties of synthesized quantum dots are presented and discussed.