bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross‐talk of global nutritional regulators in the control of primary and secondary metabolism in Streptomyces
Authors: Martín Juan F , Sola‐Landa Alberto , Santos‐Beneit Fernando , Fernández‐Martínez Lorena T , Prieto Carlos , Rodríguez‐García Antonio
Published: December 2010

Limitation of different nutrients in Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2) triggers nutrient‐stress responses, mediated by PhoP, GlnR, AfsR and other regulators, that are integrated at the molecular level and control secondary metabolite biosynthesis and differentiation. In addition, utilization of chitin or N‐acetylglucosamine regulates secondary metabolite biosynthesis by a mechanism mediated by DasR. Phosphate control of primary and secondary metabolism in Streptomyces species is mediated by the two‐component PhoR–PhoP system. In S. coelicolor, PhoP controls secondary metabolism by binding to a PHO box in the afsS promoter overlapping with the AfsR binding site. Therefore, the afsS promoter serves to integrate the PhoP‐mediated response to phosphate limitation and AfsR‐mediated responses to other unknown environmental stimuli. Interestingly, phosphate control oversees nitrogen regulation but not vice versa. In ΔphoP mutants, expression of some nitrogen metabolism genes including glnA, glnII and glnK is increased. Phosphate control of these genes is exerted through binding of PhoP to the promoters of glnR (the global nitrogen regulator), glnA, glnII and the amtB–glnK–glnD operon. This regulation allows a ‘metabolic homeostasis’ of phosphate and nitrogen utilization pathways, preventing nutritional unbalances. Similar mechanisms of interaction between phosphate control and carbon catabolite regulation or between phosphate and DasR‐mediated N‐acetylglucosamine regulation appear to exist. Transport of N‐acetylglucosamine by the NagE2 permease and, therefore, regulation of secondary metabolism, is dependent upon the balance of phosphorylated/dephosphorylated proteins of the N‐acetylglucosamine phosphotransferase system. These findings provide the bases for understanding the mechanisms underlying systems biology of Streptomyces species.
Developing EPIC markers for chalcidoid Hymenoptera from EST and genomic data
Authors: LOHSE KONRAD , SHARANOWSKI BARBARA , BLAXTER MARK , NICHOLLS JAMES A. , STONE GRAHAM N.
Published: December 2010

Increasing numbers of phylogeographic studies make comparative inferences about the histories of co‐distributed species. Although the aims of such studies are best achieved by jointly analysing sequences from multiple loci in a model‐based framework, such data currently exist for few nonmodel systems. We used existing genomic data and expressed sequence tags (ESTs) for Hymenoptera and other insects to design intron‐crossing primers for 40 loci, mainly ribosomal proteins, for chalcidoid parasitoids. Amplification success was scored on a range of taxa associated with two natural communities; oak galls and figs. Taxa were chosen at increasing distance from Nasonia, which was used for primer design, (i) within Pteromalids, (ii) within Chalcidoidea (Eupelmidae, Eulophidae, Eurytomidae, Ormyridae, Torymidae) and (iii) for a selection of distantly related gall and fig wasps (Cynipidae, Agaonidae). To assess the utility of these loci for phylogeographic and population genetic studies, we compared genetic diversity between Western Palaearctic refugia for two species. Our results show that it is feasible to design a large number of exon‐primed‐intron‐crossing (EPIC) loci that may be informative about phylogeographic history within species but amplify across a large taxonomic range.
Impairment of Cardiac Function and Remodeling Induced by Myocardial Infarction in Rats are Attenuated by the Nonpeptide Angiotensin‐(1–7) Analog AVE 0991
Authors: Zeng Wu‐tao , Chen Wei‐yan , Leng Xiu‐yu , Tang Li‐long , Sun Xiu‐ting , Li Cui‐ling , Dai Gang
Published: December 2010

Aims: We evaluated effects of the nonpeptide angiotensin (ANG)‐(1–7) analog AVE 0991 (AVE) on cardiac function and remodeling as well as transforming growth factor‐beta1 (TGF‐β1)/tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) expression in myocardial infarction rat models. Methods and Results: Sprague–Dawley rats underwent either sham surgery or coronary ligation. They were divided into four groups: sham, control, AVE, and AVE+A‐779 [[D‐Ala7]‐ANG‐(1–7), a selective antagonist for the ANG‐(1–7)] group. After 4 weeks of treatment, the AVE group displayed a significant elevation in left ventricular fractional shorting (LVFS) (25.5 ± 7.3% vs. 18.4 ± 3.3%, P < 0.05) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (44.8 ± 7.6% vs. 32.7 ± 6.5%, P < 0.05) when compared to the control group, but no effects on the left ventricular end‐diastolic and end‐systolic diameters (LVDd and LVDs, respectively) were observed. In addition, we found that the myocyte diameter (18 ± 2 μm vs. 22 ± 4 μm, P < 0.05), infarct size (42.6 ± 3.6% vs. 50.9 ± 4.4%, P < 0.001) and collagen volume fraction (CVF) (16.4 ± 2.2% vs. 25.3 ± 3.2%, P < 0.001) were significantly reduced in the AVE group when compared to the control group. There were no differences in LVFS, LVEF, myocyte diameter, and infarct size between the control and AVE+A‐779 groups. AVE also markedly attenuated the increased mRNA expression of collagen I (P < 0.001) and collagen III (P < 0.001) and inhibited the overexpression of TGF‐β1 (P < 0.05) and TNF‐α (P < 0.05) compared to the control group. Conclusion: AVE could improve cardiac function and attenuate ventricular remodeling in MI rat models. It may involve the inhibition of inflammatory factors TGF‐β1/TNF‐α overexpression and the action on the specific receptor Mas of ANG‐(1–7).
Drug Profile: Transdermal Rivastigmine Patch in the Treatment of Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Emre Murat , Bernabei Roberto , Blesa Rafael , Bullock Roger , Cunha Luis , Daniëls Hugo , Dziadulewicz Edward , Förstl Hans , Frölich Lutz , Gabryelewicz Tomasz , Levin Oleg , Lindesay James , Martínez‐Lage Pablo , Monsch Andreas , Tsolaki Magda , Van Laar Teus
Published: December 2010

Cholinesterase inhibitors constitute one of the mainstays of treatment of Alzheimer disease (AD). Gastrointestinal side effects, difficulty accessing therapeutic doses and poor patient compliance have been identified as barriers to effective treatment with these substances. The rivastigmine transdermal patch provides continuous delivery of drug through the skin into the bloodstream, avoiding the fluctuations in plasma concentration associated with oral administration. This pharmacokinetic profile is associated with reduced side effects, resulting in easier access to expected target doses. These benefits, along with other practical advantages of the transdermal patch, may contribute to enhanced patient compliance. Here, we present a review of the current literature on rivastigmine patch, and offer advice based on our own collective clinical experience. Rivastigmine patch provides an efficient option for managing patients with AD, to be considered among the first line therapies for the disease.
Why Has the Antidepressant–Placebo Difference in Antidepressant Clinical Trials Diminished over the Past Three Decades?
Authors: Khan Arif , Bhat Amritha , Kolts Russell , Thase Michael E. , Brown Walter
Published: December 2010

The increasing rate of failure of antidepressant clinical trials has led to the assertion that antidepressants do not have meaningful clinical benefits. Our hypothesis was that the decrease in antidepressant–placebo differences in antidepressant clinical trials over the past three decades could be explained by changes in research design features rather than a lack of potency of the antidepressants being tested. We collected data from 130 double blind placebo controlled antidepressant clinical trials conducted between 1981 and 2008 that included 35,122 depressed patients with 23,157 patients assigned to antidepressants and 11,965 assigned to placebo. We conducted a hierarchical regression analysis of change in HAM‐D scores in antidepressant and placebo groups separately with year of publication, and research design features as independent variables. We found that antidepressant–placebo differences in antidepressant clinical trials have declined markedly over the past three decades. Decline in change scores in the antidepressant group was related to mean total baseline HAM‐D scores in the trial, the version of HAM‐D used, and duration of trial. Similarly, decline in change scores in the placebo group was related to mean total baseline HAM‐D scores, duration of trial, and year of publication. Overall, we found that antidepressant–placebo differences were statistically significantly higher in trials that used HAM‐D 21 rather than HAM‐D 17 and in trials that lasted 6 weeks or less. These data suggest that, apart from the efficacy of the antidepressant being tested, factors such as baseline HAM‐D scores, version of HAM‐D used and duration of trial have a significant impact on outcome. As such a clinician's assessment of the usefulness of antidepressants should not be based solely on the results of such clinical trials. In the meantime there is a need for continuing research to improve the methodology of antidepressant clinical trials. These data suggest that many aspects of the design of antidepressant trials have a significant impact on outcome. Further, these data suggest that the results of more recent placebo controlled trials do not adequately inform clinicians about the potential utility of antidepressants.
Working out abjection in the Panapompom bêche‐de‐mer fishery: Race, economic change and the future in Papua New Guinea1
Authors: Rollason Will
Published: December 2010

This is a paper about how men from Panapompom, an island in Milne Bay Province of Papua New Guinea (PNG), understand how they relate to white people and imagine the future. Until recently, men from Panapompom understood themselves to be engaged in a project of ‘development’, in which they would become more and more similar to white people. This was a desirable future. However, changes in the way Panapompom men work for money have resulted in a very different imagination of the future—one in which Panapompom people are not getting whiter, but blacker, and hence more and more excluded from the lives to which they aspire. Men now dive for bêche‐de‐mer, work which they regard as being particularly hard and dangerous. Diving has profound effects on the skin, blackening and hardening it, leading Panapompom men to liken themselves to the machines that create the wealth that white people use. These ‘mechanising’ effects that diving has on the black body lead men to see white people as the sole beneficiaries of the bêche‐de‐mer industry, and black people as mere tools or extensions. For bêche‐de‐mer divers, value and desired forms of life are lodged in Australia, Europe or America, while they find themselves excluded from this future by their growing blackness.
Mythologising culture
Authors: Cowlishaw Gillian
Published: December 2010

In western Sydney, I found an extreme version of what I propose is a national Aboriginal mythopoeia, that is, a powerful system of beliefs and practices in relation to Aboriginal people and culture. A reified Aboriginal culture is promoted at institutional sites and in reconciliation discourses that evokes the presence of something precious and mysterious that must be re‐read into local Aboriginal people, but which assiduously avoids their actual circumstances and subjectivities. The awkward relationships and avoidances evident in a western Sydney reconciliation group are posited as a benign example of this mythology, born of a ‘sentimental politics’ of regret and reparation at work in Australia. Unity between the state and civil society is evident here, thus requiring an analysis that goes beyond a critique of government policies and programmes as intentional and rational, and grasps the nature of the widespread desire for Aboriginality. Through ethnographic attention to the actual relationships of Indigenous people and others, anthropologists can avoid being complicit in this regressive, separatist construction.
Surface Roughness Effects on Energy Dissipation in Fretting Contact of Nominally Flat Surfaces
Authors: Eriten M. , Polycarpou A. A. , Bergman L. A.
Published: December 2010

The effect of roughness on the frictional energy dissipation in fretting contact of nominally flat rough surfaces is studied. The contact is modeled as the statistical sum of asperity tip junctions. A mathematical analysis with a probability distribution of asperity heights in the form of a delta sequence is conducted to analytically show that a rougher surface dissipates more energy than a smoother surface. Numerical simulations with three typical measured surface roughness profiles are presented, validating the analytical finding that rougher surfaces dissipate more energy than smoother surfaces in fretting contact. The proposed statistical approach is compared with so called “direct” calculation methods, which analytically model discrete asperity contacts, and the differences regarding the energy dissipation in fretting are discussed.
A Computational Investigation of the Disk-Housing Impacts of Accelerating Rotors Supported by Hydrodynamic Bearings
Authors: Zapoměl Jaroslav , Ferfecki Petr
Published: December 2010

As the radial clearance between disks and the casing of rotating machines is usually very narrow, excessive lateral vibration of accelerating rotors passing critical speeds can produce impacts between the disks and the housing. The computer modeling method is an important tool for investigating such events. In the developed procedure, the shaft is flexible and the disks are absolutely rigid. The hydrodynamic bearings and the impacts are implemented in the mathematical model by means of nonlinear force couplings. Most of the publications and computer codes from the field of rotor dynamics are referred only in the case when the rotor turns at a constant angular speed and in simple cases of disk-housing impacts. Moreover, if the disks turning at variable speed are investigated, the resulting form of the equations of motion derived by different authors slightly differs and the differences depend on the method used for their derivation. Therefore, particular emphasis in this article is given to the derivation of the motion equations of a continuous rotor turning with variable revolutions to explain the mentioned differences, to develop a computer algorithm enabling the investigation of cases when impacts between an arbitrary number of disks and the stationary part take place, and to analyze the mutual interaction between the impacts and the fluid film bearings. The Hertz theory is applied to determine the contact forces. Calculation of the hydrodynamic forces acting on the bearings is based on solving the Reynolds equation and taking cavitation into account. Lagrange equations of the second kind and the principle of virtual work are used to derive equations of motion. The Runge–Kutta method with an adaptive time step is applied for their solution. The applicability of the developed procedure was tested by computer simulations. The results show that it can be used for the modeling of complex rotor systems and that the short computational time enables carrying out calculations for a number of design and operation parameters.
Mechanics Modeling of the Contact Loads on Dovetail Attachments
Authors: Gean Matthew C. , Farris Thomas N.
Published: December 2010

A procedure for calculating contact loads on a dovetail surface for given engine performance parameters such as speed and temperature is described. The procedure requires a small number of predetermined calibrating finite element analyses to obtain empirical constants. Verification is provided by detailed finite element analyses. Contact loads can be calculated for an entire mission history in near real-time. The contact load histories could be used to calculate local stress necessary for fatigue life prediction.
Disruption Mechanisms in Electrified Solid Copper Jets
Authors: Appelgren Patrik , Skoglund Melker , Lundberg Patrik , Westerling Lars , Larsson Anders , Hurtig Tomas
Published: December 2010

Interaction between a solid copper jet and an electric current pulse is a complex process that has been experimentally studied by letting a jet created by a shaped charge device pass through an electrode configuration consisting of two aluminum plates with a separation distance of 150 mm. When the jet bridged the electrodes, which are connected to a charged pulsed power supply, current pulses with amplitude up to 250 kA were passed through the jet. By using flash X-ray diagnostics, the disruption of the electrified jets could be studied. In this paper, the disruption of the electrified jets is discussed and compared with disruption phenomena observed in electrically exploded metal rods in a static setup. Necks are naturally formed along a stretching jet, and in the experiments with current interaction these necks explode electrically. In the static experiments, the metal rods have small notches distributed along the rod to resemble the necks of the jet. When two neighboring necks or notches explode, the shock of the explosion compresses the intermediate jet or rod segment axially and the material is forced out radially. The disruption phenomena in the jet and rod experiments are similar with rapid expansion of the metal at explosion and at comparable velocities.
Longitudinal Waves in a Submerged Cylindrical Rod 1
Authors: Iosilevskii G.
Published: December 2010

This study is concerned with longitudinal displacement waves propagating in an elastic cylindrical rod submerged in a viscous fluid. Provided that the wave propagation velocity in the rod is small compared with the velocity of sound in the surrounding fluid and the wavelength is large compared with the thickness of the boundary layer around the rod, an analytical relation is obtained between the wave number and the frequency. The presence of the fluid makes the waves disperse—the short waves become faster than the long ones.
Analytical Approach of Unsteady Boundary-Layer Flows Over a Semi-Infinite Plate for All Strouhal Numbers
Authors: Bachiri Mohamed , Bouabdallah Ahcene
Published: December 2010

In this paper, the unsteady boundary-layer flow over a semi-infinite flat plate is solved by means of an analytic approach. Via an ad hoc technique based on the boundary-layer flow evolution, an analytic expression of the velocity profile is proposed. The proposed formula verifies well the results given by Rayleigh, Blasius, and Williams–Rhyne for all time, thus for all Strouhal number values, which is the characteristic of the studied problem. As the main results, the local skin friction depending on a Strouhal number is given in an aim to show an explanation on the flow evolutions from the initial solution to the steady solution in the whole spatial region. This approach permits us to take many applications in engineering technology when the analytic expressions of the velocity, temperature, and matter are looked for.
Momentum and Heat Transfer in MHD Stagnation-Point Flow Over a Shrinking Sheet
Authors: Mahapatra T. Ray , Nandy S. K. , Gupta A. S.
Published: December 2010

The steady two-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) stagnation-point flow of an electrically conducting incompressible viscous fluid toward a shrinking sheet is investigated. The sheet is shrunk in its own plane with a velocity proportional to the distance from the stagnation-point and a uniform magnetic field is applied normal to the sheet. Velocity component parallel to the sheet is found to increase with an increase in the magnetic field parameter M. A region of reverse flow occurs near the surface of the shrinking sheet. It is shown that as M increases, the tendency of this flow reversal decreases. It is also observed that the nonalignment of the stagnation-point flow and the shrinking sheet considerably complicates the flow structure. The effect of the magnetic parameter M on the streamlines is shown for both aligned and nonaligned cases. The temperature distribution in the boundary layer is found when the surface is held at constant temperature. The analysis reveals that the temperature at a point increases with increasing M in a certain neighborhood of the surface but beyond this, the temperature decreases with increasing M. For fixed M, the surface heat flux decreases with increase in the shrinking rate.
Modified Finite Element Transfer Matrix Method for Eigenvalue Problem of Flexible Structures
Authors: Rong Bao , Rui Xiaoting , Wang Guoping
Published: December 2010

The speedy computation of eigenvalue problems is the key point in structure dynamics. In this paper, by combining transfer matrix method and finite element method, the modified finite element-transfer matrix method and its algorithm for eigenvalue problems are presented. By using this method, the speedy computation of eigenvalue problem of flexible structures can be realized, and the repeated eignvalue problem can be solved simply and conveniently. This method has the low order of system matrix, high computational efficiency, and stability. Formulations of this method, as well as some numerical examples, are given to validate the method.
Triangular Cellular Automata for Computing Two-Dimensional Elastodynamic Response on Arbitrary Domains
Authors: Hopman Ryan K. , Leamy Michael J.
Published: December 2010

This study extends a recently developed cellular automata (CA) modeling approach (Leamy, 2008, “Application of Cellular Automata Modeling to Seismic Elastodynamics,” Int. J. Solids Struct., 45(17), pp. 4835–4849) to arbitrary two-dimensional geometries via the development of a rule set governing triangular automata (cells). As in the previous rectangular CA method, each cell represents a state machine, which updates in a stepped manner using a local “bottom-up” rule set and state input from neighboring cells. Notably, the approach avoids the need to develop and solve partial differential equations and the complexity therein. The elastodynamic responses of several general geometries and loading cases (interior, Neumann, and Dirichlet) are computed with the method and then compared with results generated using the earlier rectangular CA and finite element approaches. Favorable results are reported in all cases with numerical experiments indicating that the extended CA method avoids, importantly, spurious oscillations at the front of sharp wave fronts.
Elastic Green’s Functions for a Specific Graded Material With a Quadratic Variation of Elasticity
Authors: Yuan Zifeng F. , Yin Huiming M.
Published: December 2010

In this work, Green’s functions for unbounded elastic domain in a functionally graded material with a quadratic variation of elastic moduli and constant Poisson’s ratio of 0.25 are derived for both two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cases. The displacement fields caused by a point force are derived using the logarithmic potential and the Kelvin solution for 2D and 3D cases, respectively. For a circular (2D) or spherical (3D) bounded domain, analytical solutions are provided by superposing the above solutions and corresponding elastic general solutions. This closed form solution is valuable for elastic analysis with material stiffness variations caused by temperature, moisture, aging effect, or material composition, and it can be used to perform early stage verification of more complex models of functionally graded materials. Comparison of theoretical solution and finite element method results demonstrates the application and accuracy of this solution.
Initial Blank Optimization in Multilayer Deep Drawing Process Using GONNS
Authors: Morovvati M. R. , Mollaei-Dariani B. , Haddadzadeh M.
Published: December 2010

The initial blank in the deep drawing process has a simple shape. After drawing, its perimeter shape becomes very complex. If the initial blank shape is designed in such a way that it is formed into the desired shape after the drawing process, not only does it reduces the time of trimming process but it also decreases the raw material needed substantially. In this paper, the genetically optimized neural network system (GONNS) is proposed as a tool to predict the initial blank shape for the desired final shape. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) represent the final blank shape after a training process and genetic algorithms find the optimum initial blank. The finite element method is employed for simulating the multilayer plate deep drawing process to provide training data for ANN. The GONNS results were verified through experiment in which the error was found to be about 0.2 mm. At last, variations of deformation force, thickness distribution, and thickness strain distribution were investigated using optimum blank. The results show 12% reduction in deformation force and more uniform thickness distribution as well as more consistent thickness strain distribution in the optimum blank shape.
Variable Geometry Casting of Concrete Elements Using Pin-Type Tooling
Authors: Pedersen Troels H. , Lenau Torben A.
Published: December 2010

Today, free-form parts are made in small production volume with time consuming methods and a significant amount of material waste. These methods include computer numerical control (CNC)-machining and the layered rapid prototyping techniques stereolithography apparatus (SLA), selective layer sintering (SLS), fused deposition modeling (FDM), 3D print, etc., which are well suited for smaller parts that are rich in detail. Variable geometry molds (VGMs) offer a different approach to small production volume. A die or mold can change shape between the castings, and parts with a different geometry can be made in the same mold. VGM is used in a multitude of applications such as sheet metal forming of parts for aircrafts, trains, and cranial prostheses. The present project focuses on VGM for free-form concrete facade elements, which, in contrast to previous VGM projects, uses a liquid raw material and involves the use of only a small amount of force. The present VGM process is based on the so-called reconfigurable pin-type tooling (RPT) principle. The geometric possibilities have been examined using a proof-of-concept RPT test mold. Sixty closely packed adjustable pin-elements with hemispherical tops and a square section of 43.3×43.3 mm2 create a dimpled surface that is evened out using an elastic interpolating layer. Castings with concrete and plaster are made on an elastic membrane that is sucked toward the pins using a vacuum. The shape of the cast elements and the mold surface have been measured and compared. The RPT test mold can produce a large variety of free-form geometric shapes. It is possible to make straight vertical surfaces and even horizontal surfaces with dimples of only 0.3 mm. Part details can be made down to the size of a pin with hole depths up to 65 mm and protrusions up to 19 mm. Repeatability is better than the measurement uncertainty. VGMs using the RPT principle can be used for making scale models of a range of free-form cast concrete façade elements. It is almost possible to remove the imprints from the pins by using the right interpolators, but the dimples could also be a visually attractive characteristic of the process that could be valued by architects. Large hole depths and smaller protrusions are possible.
Dielectric Coating of Cathodes for Microfabrication Using Electrochemical Method
Authors: Brusilovski Anna
Published: December 2010

Pulse microelectrochemical machining (ECM) by bipolar current is a method allowing the manufacturing of microholes and micropatterns. In many cases, microholes with parallel walls and accurate micropatterns can only be manufactured with the application of an electrically isolating coating to the side surfaces of the cathode. The goal of this research was to find a durable coating for this process. Epoxy resins, Teflon, and diamond-like carbon are considered as dielectric cathode coatings. Different aspects of the working environment of these coatings in the pulse bipolar ECM process, such as electric field, chemical composition, and physical influences of the electrolyte, are analyzed. The main reasons for the low process durability of coatings are poor adhesion and harsh chemical and physical environments. The most promising coating for the process is diamond-like carbon, which shows significantly better performance than the other coatings. Improved adhesion of a coating to the cathode can dramatically improve its durability in the pulse bipolar ECM environment and therefore permits an efficient manufacturing process.
Perioperative Acupuncture and Postoperative Acupressure Can Prevent Postoperative Vomiting following Paediatric Tonsillectomy Or Adenoidectomy: A Pragmatic Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Liodden Ingrid , Howley Michael , Grimsgaard Anne Sameline , Fønnebø Vinjar Magne , Borud Einar Kristian , Alraek Terje , Norheim Arne Johan
Published: December 2010

Objective

To investigate the effectiveness of acupuncture and acupressure as supplements to standard treatment for postoperative vomiting in children undergoing tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy.

Methods

A pragmatic, open, block-randomised controlled trial. The results were analysed according to the intention-to-treat principle. The study was conducted without extra resources in a normal setting at the day-surgery department of Lovisenberg Diakonale Hospital in Oslo. 154 children with an American Society of Anesthesiologists grade 1–2, weighing at least 10 kg, were included. Children with concomitant gastrointestinal diseases, emesis or antiemetic treatment <24 h preoperatively, rash or local infection over the actual acupuncture points were excluded together with patients whose parents’ informed consent could not be obtained. The intervention group received acupuncture at pericardium 6 bilaterally, at a depth of approximately 0.7 cm with a median of 21 min during anaesthesia, followed by acupressure wristbands for 24 h and standard treatment. The control group received standard treatment. The primary end point was the occurrence of vomiting or retching during 24 h postoperatively.

Results

Children in the acustimulation group experienced less retching and vomiting than the control group—46.8% versus 66.2% (p=0.015). The effect of acustimulation was specifically pronounced in girls and children aged 1–3 years.

Conclusion

This trial indicates the effectiveness of acustimulation as an adjunct to standard treatment. The results should encourage and promote the implementation of acustimulation for postoperative vomiting in children undergoing adenoidectomy or tonsillectomy.
Molecular phylogeny of two coelomycetous fungal genera with stellate conidia,ProsthemiumandAsterosporium, on Fagales trees
Authors: Tanaka Kazuaki , Mel’nik Vadim A. , Kamiyama Maasa , Hirayama Kazuyuki , Shirouzu Takashi
Published: December 2010

Prosthemium (teleomorph Pleomassaria ) and Asterosporium (teleomorph unknown) are coelomycetous genera with stellate conidia on Fagales trees. Their morphological resemblance suggests their close relationship, but phylogenetic relatedness remains unknown. They have been distinguished on the basis of either conidiomatal morphology (pycnidia in Prosthemium and acervuli in Asterosporium) or their differing conidial septation (euseptate in Prosthemium and distoseptate in Asterosporium). To reveal their phylogenetic affinities and clarify reliable distinguishing phenotypical characters, five species of Prosthemium and two species of Asterosporium were investigated using sequences of the small subunit, large subunit, and internal transcribed spacer region of nuclear ribosomal DNA and β-tubulin gene from 43 isolates of these species. The analyses revealed the following: (i) Asterosporium typified by Asterosporium asterospermum on Fagus is a member of the Sordariomycetes and is distinct from Prosthemium belonging to the Dothideomycetes; (ii) Asterosporium betulinum on Betula species should be excluded from Asterosporium and transferred to Prosthemium as Prosthemium neobetulinum nom. nov.; (iii) conidial septation does not seem to have a diagnostic value, whereas conidiomatal morphology is useful in distinguishing both genera; (iv) the number and length of conidial arms are useful criteria in distinguishing Prosthemium species. A new species, Prosthemium intermedium sp. nov., found on both Betula ermanii and Betula maximowicziana , is described and illustrated.
Conservation genetics of Hill’s thistle (Cirsium hillii)
Authors: Freeland Joanna R. , Gillespie Joy , Ciotir Claudia , Dorken Marcel E.
Published: December 2010

Populations at the edges of their geographical ranges are often characterized by reduced genetic diversity and increased genetic differentiation. These patterns may be exacerbated by specialized associations between plants and uncommon habitats. Together, reduced diversity and increased subdivision may increase the risk of population extirpation, an issue that is particularly important for plants classified as rare or threatened. Hill’s thistle (Cirsium hillii (Canby) Fernald), is a perennial herb endemic to the Great Lakes region and is considered threatened in Canada where its northernmost distribution occurs. We used microsatellite markers to genotype plants from 11 populations of Hill’s thistle that span the range of the species distribution within Canada. These data were used to investigate levels of genetic diversity within populations and genetic differentiation between populations, and to evaluate associations between patterns of genetic variation and those expected under ongoing habitat loss. Genetic differentiation among populations was low, although significant pairwise FST values, along with the presence of private alleles in most populations, was consistent with moderate to low gene flow. Nevertheless, in comparison with a congeneric rare species (Cirsium pitcheri) that occurs in the same geographical region in Canada, genetic diversity within most populations was high, and we suggest that this is at least partially attributable to this species’ combination of sexual and clonal reproduction. Despite high levels of genetic diversity, Hill’s thistle should probably remain a designated species at risk because of ongoing habitat loss; however, our data suggest that Hill’s thistle is unlikely to suffer from reduced genetic diversity in the foreseeable future.
KNOWLEDGE-BASED REPRESENTATION OF 3D MEDIA
Authors: VASILAKIS GEORGE , GARCIA-ROJAS ALEJANDRA , PAPALEO LAURA , CATALANO CHIARA E. , ROBBIANO FRANCESCO , SPAGNUOLO MICHELA , VAVALIS MANOLIS , PITIKAKIS MARIOS
Published: December 2010

In recent years, 3D media have become more and more widespread and have been made available in numerous online repositories. A systematic and formal approach for representing and organizing shape-related information is needed to share 3D media, to communicate the knowledge associated to shape modeling processes and to facilitate its reuse in useful cross-domain usage scenarios. In this paper we present an initial attempt to formalize an ontology for digital shapes, called the Common Shape Ontology (CSO). We discuss about the rationale, the requirements and the scope of this ontology, we present in detail its structure and describe the most relevant choices related to its development. Finally, we show how the CSO conceptualization is used in domain-specific application scenarios.
A THEORETICAL AND EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF THREE SLICE-BASED METRICS FOR COHESION
Authors: COUNSELL S. , HALL T. , BOWES D.
Published: December 2010

Sound empirical research suggests that we should analyze software metrics from a theoretical and practical perspective. This paper describes the result of an investigation into the respective merits of two cohesion-based metrics for program slicing. The Tightness and Overlap metrics were those originally proposed by Weiser for the procedural paradigm. We compare and contrast these two metrics with a third metric for the OO paradigm first proposed by Counsell et al. based on Hamming Distance and based on a matrix-based notation. We theoretically validated the three metrics using the properties of Kitchenham and then empirically validated the same three metrics; some revealing properties of the metrics were found as a result. In particular, that the OO-based metric was the most stable of the three; module length was not a confounding factor for the Hamming Distance-based metric; it was however for the two slice-based metrics supporting previous work by Meyers and Binkley. The number of module slices however, was found to be an even stronger influence on the values of the two slice-based metrics, whose near perfect correlation with each other suggests that they may be measuring the same software attribute. We calculated and then compared the three metrics using first, a set of manufactured, pre-determined modules as a preliminary analysis and second, approximately nine thousand functions from the modules of multiple versions of the Barcode system, used previously by Meyers and Binkley in their empirical study. The over-arching message of the research is that a combination of theoretical and empirical analysis can help significantly in comparing the viability and indeed choice of a metric or set of metrics. More specifically, although cohesion is a subjective measure, there are certain properties of a metric that are less desirable than others and it is these 'relative' features that distinguish metrics, make their comparison possible and their value more evident.
FORMALIZATION OF TEXTUAL USE CASES BASED ON PETRI NETS
Authors: SOMÉ STÉPHANE S.
Published: December 2010

A use case is a specification of interactions involving a system and external actors of that system. The intuitive, user centered nature of textual use cases is one of the reasons for the success of the use case approach. A certain level of formalization is however needed to automate use case based system development, including tasks such as design synthesis, verification and validation. In this paper, a mapping from textual use cases to a formal model (Petri nets) is proposed. Use cases are described in a restricted-form of natural language. The abstract syntax of the language is formally defined using a tuple structure. The mapping from use cases to Petri nets considers use cases sequencing constraints defined at the syntactic-level, and provides a definition of execution semantics to use cases.
STABILITY OF (α, β, γ)-DERIVATIONS ON LIE C*-ALGEBRAS
Authors: GORDJI M. ESHAGHI , GHOBADIPOUR N.
Published: December 2010

Petr Novotný and Jiřĺ Hrivnák [14] investigated and generalized the concept of Lie derivations via certain complex parameters and obtained various Lie and Jordan operator algebras as well as two one-parametric sets of linear operators. Moreover, they established the structure and properties of (α, β, γ)-derivations of Lie algebras.

We say a functional equation (ξ) is stable if any function g satisfying the equation (ξ) approximately is near to true solution of (ξ). In the present paper, we investigate the stability of (α, β, γ)-derivations on Lie C*-algebras associated with the following functional equation [Formula: see text]
ITERATIVE GEOMETRIC STRUCTURES
Authors: BERCU GABRIEL , CORCODEL CLAUDIU , POSTOLACHE MIHAI
Published: December 2010

In this work, we propose a study of geometric structures (connections, pseudo-Riemannian metrics) adapted to some fundamental problems of Differential Geometry. Then we find geometrical characteristics of some ODE or PDE of Mathematical Physics. While Sec. 1 contains the general setting, Secs. 2–5 contain our results. In Sec. 2, we introduce a Hessian structure having the same connection as the initial metric. In Sec. 3, we initiate a study on iterative 2D Hessian structures. In Sec. 4, we find pairs (metric, connection) generated by special functions. In Sec. 5, we find geometric characteristics of a PDE.
ON PLANAR AND NON-PLANAR ISOCHRONOUS SYSTEMS AND POISSON STRUCTURES
Authors: GUHA PARTHA , CHOUDHURY A. GHOSE
Published: December 2010

We construct certain new classes of isochronous dynamical systems based on the recent constructions of Calogero and Leyvraz. We show how a Poisson structure can be ascribed to such equations in ℝ3 and indicate their connection with the Nambu structures.
MATTER LAGRANGIANS COUPLED WITH CONNECTIONS
Authors: FATIBENE L. , FRANCAVIGLIA M. , MERCADANTE S.
Published: December 2010

We shall consider here extended theories of gravitation in the metric-affine formalism with matter coupled directly to the connection. A sufficiently general procedure will be exhibited to solve the resulting field equation associated to the connection. As special cases one has the no-coupling case (which is standard in f(R) literature) as well as the cases already analyzed in [1].
RELATIVISTIC MECHANICS IN A GENERAL SETTING
Authors: SARDANASHVILY G.
Published: December 2010

Relativistic mechanics on an arbitrary manifold is formulated in the terms of jets of its one-dimensional submanifolds. A generic relativistic Lagrangian is constructed. Relativistic mechanics on a pseudo-Riemannian manifold is particularly considered.
PSEUDO-HERMITIAN REPRESENTATION OF QUANTUM MECHANICS
Authors: MOSTAFAZADEH ALI
Published: December 2010

A diagonalizable non-Hermitian Hamiltonian having a real spectrum may be used to define a unitary quantum system, if one modifies the inner product of the Hilbert space properly. We give a comprehensive and essentially self-contained review of the basic ideas and techniques responsible for the recent developments in this subject. We provide a critical assessment of the role of the geometry of the Hilbert space in conventional quantum mechanics to reveal the basic physical principle motivating our study. We then offer a survey of the necessary mathematical tools, present their utility in establishing a lucid and precise formulation of a unitary quantum theory based on a non-Hermitian Hamiltonian, and elaborate on a number of relevant issues of fundamental importance. In particular, we discuss the role of the antilinear symmetries such as [Formula: see text], the true meaning and significance of the so-called charge operators [Formula: see text] and the [Formula: see text]-inner products, the nature of the physical observables, the equivalent description of such models using ordinary Hermitian quantum mechanics, the pertaining duality between local-non-Hermitian versus nonlocal-Hermitian descriptions of their dynamics, the corresponding classical systems, the pseudo-Hermitian canonical quantization scheme, various methods of calculating the (pseudo-) metric operators, subtleties of dealing with time-dependent quasi-Hermitian Hamiltonians and the path-integral formulation of the theory, and the structure of the state space and its ramifications for the quantum Brachistochrone problem. We also explore some concrete physical applications and manifestations of the abstract concepts and tools that have been developed in the course of this investigation. These include applications in nuclear physics, condensed matter physics, relativistic quantum mechanics and quantum field theory, quantum cosmology, electromagnetic wave propagation, open quantum systems, magnetohydrodynamics, quantum chaos and biophysics.
ON THE EQUIVALENCE BETWEEN THE CATEGORIES OF LOCALLY SLICEABLE FIBER SPACES AND SHEAVES OF SETS
Authors: Abel Mart
Published: December 2010

In this paper we prove that the category of locally sliceable fiber spaces over the fixed topological space X and the category of sheaves of sets over the same topological space X are equivalent.
COEFFICIENTS OF A p-ADIC MEASURE ON ${\mathbb Z}_p^n $ AND IWASAWA λ-INVARIANT OF ITS Γ-TRANSFORM
Authors: Barman Rupam , Saikia Anupam
Published: December 2010

In this paper we relate the coefficients of a p-adic measure α on [Formula: see text] to the λ-invariant of the Iwasawa series of the Γ-transform of α.
A HIDDEN SYMMETRY RELATED TO THE RIEMANN HYPOTHESIS WITH THE PRIMES INTO THE CRITICAL STRIP
Authors: Beltraminelli Stefano , Merlini Danilo , Sekatskii Sergey
Published: December 2010

In this note concerning integrals involving the logarithm of the Riemann Zeta function, we extend some treatments given in previous pioneering works on the subject and introduce a more general set of Lorentz measures. We first obtain two new equivalent formulations of the Riemann Hypothesis (RH). Then with a special choice of the measure we formulate the RH as a "hidden symmetry", a global symmetry which connects the region outside the critical strip with that inside the critical strip. The Zeta function with all the primes appears as argument of the Zeta function in the critical strip. We then illustrate the treatment by means of a simple numerical experiment. The representation we obtain goes a little more in the direction to believe that RH may eventually be true.
THE JORDAN FORM PROBLEM FOR C = AB: THE BALANCED, DIAGONALIZABLE CASE
Authors: Johnson Charles R. , Zhang YuLin
Published: December 2010

We consider a key case in the fundamental and substantial problem of the possible Jordan canonical forms of A, B, C ∈ Mn(F) when C = AB. If A ∈ M2k(F) (respectively B, C ∈ M2k(F)) is diagonalizable with two distinct eigenvalues a1, a2 (respectively b1, b2, and c1, c2), each with multiplicity k, and when C = AB, all possibilities for a1, a2, b1, b2, c1, c2 are characterized. The possibilities are much more restrictive than the obvious determinant condition: (a1a2b1b2)k = (c1c2)k allows. This is then used to settle the general, two eigenvalues per matrix, diagonalizable case of the Jordan form problem for C = AB.
ONE-ONE CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN A CLASS OF IDEALS AND A CLASS OF CONGRUENCES OF A GENERALIZED LATTICE
Authors: Kishore P. Radha Krishna
Published: December 2010

There is one-one correspondence between a subfamily of strong ideals and the family of strong congruences in a distributive and complemented generalised lattice.
ON THE BRAIDING OF AN ANN-CATEGORY
Authors: Quang Nguyen Tien , Hanh Dang Dinh
Published: December 2010

A braided Ann-category [Formula: see text] is an Ann-category [Formula: see text] together with the braiding c such that ([Formula: see text], ⊗, a, c, (1, l, r)) is a braided tensor category, and c is compatible with the distributivity constraints. The paper shows the dependence of the left (or right) distributivity constraint on other axioms. Hence, the paper shows the relation to the concepts of distributivity category due to M. L. Laplaza and ring-like category due to A. Fröhlich and C.T.C Wall.

The center construction of an almost strict Ann-category is an example of a non-symmetric braided Ann-category.
A NOTE ON MAXIMAL SUBFACTORS
Authors: Wang Liguang , Ma Xiujuan
Published: December 2010

In this note, we consider the maximal subfactors of factors. We show that there is no maximal subfactor of type In factors when n is finite. We also consider the relation between maximal subfactor and Jones' basic construction. In the end, we give an example of an index 2 maximal subfactor in free group factor with 2 generators.
The occurrence of a new species of Gomphocythere (Ostracoda, Limnocytheridae) in the Holocene of SE Turkey: the northernmost record for the genus
Authors: Boomer Ian , Gearey Ben
Published: December 2010

Abstract. A new species of the genus Gomphocythere (Sars, 1924) from SE Turkey extends the known Holocene biogeographical range of this taxon northwards by 500 km although only sub-fossil remains have been discovered so far. The species has been recorded previously in open nomenclature, from a middle Pleistocene site in northern Israel but the genus Gomphocythere is particularly abundant and diverse in the large lakes of South and East Africa (e.g. Lakes Malawi, Tanganyika and Victoria). The closest relative of the new species, based on external carapace characteristics, is known to be alive today along one of the sources of the River Jordan, central Israel. This suggests the presence of a geographically distinct ‘northern group’ of Gomphocythere separated from the majority of known occurrences in eastern and southern Africa.