bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPIEGELUNGSSATZ: A COMBINATORIAL PROOF FOR THE 4-RANK
Authors: HABSIEGER LAURENT , ROYER EMMANUEL
Published: August 2011

The Spiegelungssatz is an inequality between the 4-ranks of the narrow ideal class groups of the quadratic fields [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. We provide a combinatorial proof of this inequality. Our interpretation gives an affine system of equations that allows to describe precisely some equality cases.
Graft Copolymerization of Styrene from Poly(vinyl alcohol) via RAFT Process
Authors: Koohmareh Gholam Ali , Hajian Morteza , Fallahi Hazhir
Published: August 2011

Polystyrene, PS, was grafted from poly(vinyl alcohol), PVA, backbone by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. The hydroxyl groups of the PVA were converted into aromatic dithioester RAFT agent and polymerization began in the presence of this agent. The structure of compounds was confirmed by FT-IR and1HNMR spectroscopy. The graft copolymer was characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Grafted polystyrene chains were cleaved from the PVA backbone by acidic hydrolysis of the PVA-g-PS, and its polydispersity index, PDI, was determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) showing narrow molecular weight distribution.
Broadband Seismic Deployments for Imaging the Upper Mantle Structure in the Lützow-Holm Bay Region, East Antarctica
Authors: Kanao Masaki , Usui Yusuke , Inoue Tomofumi , Yamada Akira
Published: August 2011

Broadband seismic deployments have been carried out in the Lützow-Holm Bay region (LHB), Dronning Maud Land, East Antarctica. The recorded teleseismic and local events are of sufficient quality to image the structure and dynamics of the crust and mantle of the terrain. Passive seismic studies by receiver functions and shear wave splitting suggest a heterogeneous upper mantle. Depth variations in topography for upper mantle discontinuities were derived from long period receiver function, indicating a shallow depth discontinuity at 660 km beneath the continental area of LHB. These results provide evidence of paleo upwelling of the mantle plume associated with Gondwana break-up. SKS splitting analysis anticipated a relationship between “fossil” anisotropy in lithospheric mantle and past tectonics. Moreover, active source surveys (DSSs) imaged lithospheric mantle reflections involving regional tectonic stress during Pan-African and succeeding extension regime at the break-up. By combining the active and passive source studies of the mantle structure, we propose an evolution model of LHB for constructing the present mantle structure.
Automatic Discrimination of the Geographical Origins of Milks by Excitation-Emission Fluorescence Spectrometry and Chemometrics
Authors: Xu Lu , Deng De-Hua , Cai Chen-Bo , Yang Hong-Wei
Published: August 2011

This paper presents the automatic discrimination of geographical origins of milks from Western Yunnan Plateau areas and eastern China by excitation-emission fluorescence spectrometry and chemometrics. Genuine plateau milks (n=60) and milks from eastern China (n=89) are scanned in the regions of 180–300 nm for excitation and 200–800 nm for emission. Different options of data analysis are investigated and compared in terms of their performance in discriminating milks of different geographical origins: (1) two-way partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA) based on excitation and emission spectra, respectively; (2) two-way PLSDA based on fusion of excitation and emission spectra; (3) three-way PLSDA based on excitation-emission matrix spectra. The two-way PLSDA methods with excitation spectra, emission spectra, and fusion of excitation and emission spectra correctly classify 91.3%, 88.6%, and 95.3% of the milk samples, respectively; while the total accuracy of three-way PLSDA is 96.0%. The results demonstrate the two-way data combining excitation and emission spectra are sufficient to characterize and identify the plateau milks. Considering both model accuracy and the analytical time required, two-way PLS-DA with fusion of excitation and emission spectra is recommended as a reliable and quick method to discriminate plateau milks from ordinary milks.
Fractals and Independent Component Analysis for Defect Detection in Bridge Decks
Authors: Abdel-Qader Ikhlas , Abu-Amara Fadi , Abudayyeh Osama
Published: August 2011

We present in this paper a framework for the automatic detection and localization of defects inside bridge decks. Using Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) raw scans, this framework is composed of a feature extraction algorithm using fractals to detect defective regions and a deconvolution algorithm using banded-independent component analysis (ICA) to reduce overlapping between reflections and to estimate the radar waves travel time and depth of defects. Results indicate that the defects' estimated horizontal location and depth falling within 2 cm (76.92% accuracy) and 1 cm (84.62% accuracy) from their actual values.
An Autoradiographic Study on the Pathogenesis of Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesia: Regulation of Dopamine Transporter by Levodopa in a Rat Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Cai Xiu-ying , Kong Xiao-ming , Fang Qi , Ning Ping , Xu Yu-jie , Zhang Bin , Xue Shou-ru
Published: August 2011

Background: The development of abnormal involuntary movements or dyskinesia is a serious complication of L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) therapy for Parkinson’s disease (PD). Objective: To evaluate the correlation between dopamine transporter (DAT) regulated by L-DOPA and the pathogenesis of dyskinesia in PD rats. Methods: Thirty rats were used to establish the PD model by injecting 6-hydroxydopamine into the right medial forebrain bundle. The sham surgery rats (n = 4) received 4 µl of physiological saline. Then, 19 rats in which PD has been successfully induced were randomly assigned to the L-DOPA (20 mg/kg/day; n = 15) or model (saline; n = 4) group. After 4 weeks of treatment, 131I-N-(3-fluoropropyl)-2β-carbomethoxy-3 β-(4-iodophenyl)nortropane was injected into the rats, and images of DAT in the brain were acquired using a storage phosphor plate. The levels of DAT-specific radioactivity uptake in the bilateral corpora striata (left/right) were compared. Results: There was no difference in DAT-specific radioactivity uptake between the bilateral corpora striata in the sham surgery rats. The images were clear and symmetrically distributed in the corpora striata. In PD model rats, the DAT-specific radioactivity uptake decreased on the lesioned side and the ratios of uptake between the corpora striata were increased. Accumulation of the radioligand on the lesioned side was sparse. In the L-DOPA group, the average ratio values were significantly increased in dyskinetic rats and reduced in nondyskinetic rats. In addition, the differences between the bilateral corpora striata were reduced in nondyskinetic rats. Conclusion: L-DOPA was shown to downregulate DAT in some PD model rats. That process may be involved in the pathogenesis of dyskinesia.
Toll-Like Receptor 9 Is a Novel Biomarker for Esophageal Squamous Cell Dysplasia and Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression
Authors: Takala Heikki , Kauppila Joonas H. , Soini Ylermi , Selander Katri S. , Vuopala Katri S. , Lehenkari Petri P. , Saarnio Juha , Karttunen Tuomo J.
Published: August 2011

Background: Stimulation of Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) has been linked to invasion in various cancer cells in vitro. We investigated TLR9 expression in normal, dysplastic and malignant esophageal squamous epithelium. Methods: TLR9 expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry in 46 cases of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, including 12 cases with adjacent squamous dysplasia and 24 cases with normal esophageal epithelium. TLR9 expression was compared with tumor grade, stage, proliferation, apoptosis and vascular density. Results: In normal esophageal squamous epithelium, TLR9 staining intensity decreased linearly from the basal layers to the superficial layers (p < 0.001). Strong TLR9 expression was detected across full thickness of high-grade dysplasia, the intensity clearly differing from the normal squamous epithelium and squamous cell carcinoma (p < 0.001). All squamous cell carcinomas exhibited TLR9 expression that was positively associated with a high grade (p < 0.05), the presence of lymph node metastases (p < 0.05) and previously undetected distant metastases (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Expression of TLR9 in the basal parts of normal esophageal epithelium suggests a role related to cell proliferation and differentation. TLR9 upregulation detected in dysplastic epithelium and in disseminated carcinomas indicates that this protein may serve as a novel marker for esophageal squamous dysplasia and carcinoma with metastatic potential.
The Dowager’s Hump: An Early Start?
Authors: Weale Robert , Weale Martin
Published: August 2011

Background: A recent study has shown that biomarkers relating to the variation of muscle strength with age exhibited gender differences. Objective: To discover whether gender differences in kyphosis and its progression with age might be explained in a related manner. Methods: Relevant aspects of muscular ageing, and related changes in the Cobb angle (a measure of kyphosis) were examined and linked to data on the gerontology of musculature. A hypothesis regarding embryonic antecedents was advanced. Results: Kyphosis appears to rest on a multifactorial basis, with age and muscular changes playing potentially important roles. Conclusions: The role of muscle strength as a cause of kyphosis merits further investigation. Both muscular and kyphotic studies should be repeated on the same subjects, and relevant embryonic antecedents be examined. A study of the relation between gonadal and antenatal muscular development might yield conclusive results.
Effects of a Supplementation of n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids with or without Fish Gelatin on Gene Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Obese, Insulin-Resistant Subjects
Authors: Rudkowska Iwona , Ponton André , Jacques Hélène , Lavigne Charles , Holub Bruce J. , Marette André , Vohl Marie-Claude
Published: August 2011

Aim: To investigate gene expression changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) following an n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) and n-3 PUFA plus fish gelatin (+FG) supplementation. Methods: A transcriptome comparison of 8-week supplementation with n-3 PUFA and n-3 PUFA+FG was carried out in PBMCs of 16 obese insulin-resistant subjects. Results: Erythrocyte n-3 PUFA concentration increased and plasma triglycerides decreased significantly without altering inflammatory parameters after both supplementations. n-3 PUFA supplementation changed the expression of 805 genes, whereas n-3 PUFA+FG supplementation altered the expression of 184 genes. Three genes were commonly changed: fatty acid desaturase 1, free fatty acid receptor 3, and ectodysplasin. Pathway analyses indicate changes in gene expression via the nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α pathway after both supplementations. Further, the extent of modifications in the expression of genes implicated in the inflammatory pathways – the oxidative stress response mediated by nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2, nuclear transcription factor ĸB, oxidative stress, and hypoxia-inducible factor signaling – was different after each supplementation. Conclusion: Although n-3 PUFA and n-3 PUFA+FG supplementations have a distinct impact on gene expression levels, the consequences on biochemical parameters and metabolic pathways were comparable after both supplementations.
Gene Polymorphisms and Low Dietary Intake of Micronutrients in Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Singh Prakruti R. , Lele Smita S. , Mukherjee Manjari S.
Published: August 2011

Background/Aims: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a complex disorder involving genetic and non-genetic factors. Food is an important component of the latter. We examined if DNA polymorphisms in genes encoding enzymes of one-carbon metabolism coupled with low consumption of micronutrients such as folate, vitamins B6 and B12 might increase the risk of CAD. Methods: A case-control study consisting of 252 CAD patients and 252 controls were included. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), 2 insertion/deletion and 1 repeat polymorphism were typed. The micronutrient intake was estimated from a standard 24-hour dietary recall coupled to a food frequency questionnaire. Results: The results suggest an association of ‘early-onset CAD’ with betaine homocysteine S-methyl transferase (BHMT) 742G→A SNP (odds ratio = 1.52; 95% confidence interval, 0.96–2.41; p = 0.04). No association was observed for all age of onset, but more patients than controls whose micronutrient intake was in the lowest quintile also carried the minor allele (50% patients vs. 37% controls; p = 0.042). Furthermore, dietary intake of folate micronutrients below the recommended daily allowance was observed in a larger percent of patients than controls with the minor BHMT allele (51% patients vs. 44% controls; p = 0.021). Conclusions: In the presence of the minor BHMT allele, a decreased consumption of folate micronutrients might increase the risk of CAD.
Efficacy of Paroxetine in Primary Palmoplantar Hyperhidrosis Occurring with Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy
Authors: Katshu Mohammad Zia Ul Haq , Bhattacharya Arnab , Nizamie S. Haque
Published: August 2011

Primary palmoplantar hyperhidrosis (PPH) is believed to be a dysfunction of emotional sweating, with an estimated prevalence of around 3%. Several treatment options including topical antiperspirants, tap water iontophoresis, botulinum toxin injections, oral anticholinergics, and tricyclic antidepressants are available, each with a significant adverse event profile. For the first time, we report a PPH patient with comorbid juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) treated successfully with a combination of paroxetine and divalproex sodium. Paroxetine resulted in improvement in PPH, possibly through its anticholinergic and/or noradrenergic actions. Though the occurrence of PPH and JME together seems to be a chance association, some common frontal lobe mechanisms may be involved that need to be explored further.
Determinants of Infarction Patterns in Cardioembolic Stroke
Authors: Kim Young Dae , Hong Hyun Jung , Cha Myoung Jin , Nam Chung Mo , Nam Hyo Suk , Heo Ji Hoe
Published: August 2011

Background: Embolic infarctions from the heart are known to cause multiple scattered infarct lesions as well as single, large territorial infarctions. However, it remains unknown which factors contribute to these different infarction patterns in patients with potential cardiac sources of embolism (PCSE). Methods: We examined 388 ischemic stroke patients with a high-risk PCSE using diffusion-weighted imaging. Infarction patterns were categorized into a single large lesion, a single small lesion, confluent and additional lesions, or small scattered lesions. The relationships between infarction patterns and clinical and hematologic parameters were investigated. Results: Of the 388 patients, a single large lesion was detected in 139 (35.8%), a single small lesion in 29 (7.5%), confluent and additional lesions in 171 (44.1%), and small scattered lesions in 49 (12.7%). Prior use of antiplatelet agents and anticoagulant were associated with the pattern of small scattered lesions and a single small lesion, respectively. Additionally, higher white blood cell counts were associated with confluent and additional lesions. The type of high-risk PCSE was not related to a specific infarction pattern. Conclusions: These results suggest that platelet function and inflammatory processes may directly affect the thrombus formation in the cardiac chamber.
Antiproteinuric Effect of Chemokine C-C Motif Ligand 2 Inhibition in Subjects with Acute Proliferative Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Ble Alessandro , Mosca Marta , Di Loreto Giorgio , Guglielmotti Angelo , Biondi Giuseppe , Bombardieri Stefano , Remuzzi Giuseppe , Ruggenenti Piero
Published: August 2011

Background/Aims: To test the role of chemokine C-C motif ligand 2 (CCL2) in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis (LN), we evaluated the effects of CCL2 inhibition by bindarit therapy in patients with systemic lupus and active renal disease. Methods: In this proof-of-concept, prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical study, 22 subjects with acute LN were assigned on a 1:1 ratio to 24-week treatment with bindarit (1,200 mg/day) or matching placebo. All subjects were on the same standardized steroid background therapy. Urinary CCL2, urinary albumin excretion (UAE), estimated glomerular filtration rate, time to remission and time to relapse of LN were compared between groups. Results: Urinary CCL2 significantly decreased during bindarit therapy (p = 0.008 vs. baseline) with a reduction that approximated 50% at study end. CCL2 reduction was paralleled by a persistent reduction in UAE that averaged 80% vs. baseline and approximated 90% at study end. Renal function recovery was similar and no difference was found in terms of time to remission and time to relapse of LN between treatment arms. Treatment was safe and well tolerated in all patients. Conclusion: In lupus subjects with active nephritis, bindarit significantly reduced albuminuria and urinary CCL2 levels. This study provides the background for longer trials to test renoprotective effect of CCL2 inhibition in LN.
Decrease of GABAergic Markers and Arc Protein Expression in the Frontal Cortex by Intraventricular 192 IgG-Saporin
Authors: Jeong Da Un , Chang Won Seok , Hwang Yong Sup , Lee Dongkyu , Chang Jin Woo
Published: August 2011

Background/Aims: Previous studies used 192 IgG-saporin to study cholinergic function because of its facility for selective lesioning; however, results varied due to differences in the methods of administration and behavioral tests used. We examined an animal model of dementia using 192 IgG-saporin to confirm its features before applying this model to research of therapeutic drugs or electrical stimulation techniques. Methods: Features were verified by the Morris water maze test, immunochemistry, and Western blotting. Animals were examined after intraventricular injection of 192 IgG-saporin (0.63 µg/µl; 6, 8, and 10 µl) or phosphate-buffered saline. Results: In the acquisition phase of the Morris water maze test, the latencies of the injection groups were significantly delayed, but recovered within 1 week. In the probe test, 2 of 4 indices (time in the platform zone and the number of crossings) were significantly different in the 8-µl injection group. Immunohistochemistry revealed the extent of cholinergic destruction. Activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein and glutamate decarboxylase expression significantly decreased in the frontal cortex (8- and 10-µl groups), but not in the hippocampus. Conclusion: Spatial memory impairment was associated with cholinergic basal forebrain injury as well as frontocortical GABAergic hypofunction and synaptic plasticity deceleration.
Evaluation of JNK Blockade as an Early Intervention Treatment for Type 1 Diabetic Nephropathy in Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Lim Andy K.H. , Ma Frank Y. , Nikolic-Paterson David J. , Ozols Elyce , Young Morag J. , Bennett Brydon L. , Friedman Glenn C. , Tesch Gregory H.
Published: August 2011

Background/Aims: The c-Jun amino-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathway is activated in human kidney diseases and promotes renal injury in experimental glomerulonephritis. In this study, we examined whether JNK signaling plays a role in the development of diabetic nephropathy or in regulating hypertension, which exacerbates diabetic renal injury. Methods: Diabetes was induced in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) using streptozotocin. At week 16 of diabetes, rats with equivalent hyperglycemia and albuminuria were randomized into groups which received no treatment, vehicle alone or a selective JNK inhibitor (CC-930, 60 mg/kg/bid) for 10 weeks. These rats were assessed for hypertension and progression of renal damage. Results: At week 16, diabetic rats showed increased kidney JNK activation compared with nondiabetic controls. Effective JNK inhibition was demonstrated at week 26 by reductions in c-Jun phosphorylation. CC-930 did not affect blood pressure, kidney hypertrophy, glomerular hyperfiltration, podocyte loss, glomerular fibrosis or tubulointerstitial injury in diabetic SHR. However, CC-930 reduced macrophages and ccl2 mRNA levels in diabetic kidneys. In contrast, CC-930 exacerbated albuminuria at week 26, which was associated with reduced glomerular mRNA levels of the podocyte-specific molecules, nephrin and podocin. Conclusion: JNK inhibition does not prevent the progression of early diabetic renal injury in hypertensive rats, which contrasts with the ability of JNK inhibition to suppress albuminuria and injury in experimental glomerulonephritis.
A new member or an intruder: how do Sinai spiny mouse (Acomys dimidiatus) families respond to a male newcomer?
Authors: Frynta Daniel , Cížková Barbora , Šumbera Radim
Published: August 2011

Recruitment of unrelated individuals into a group plays an important role in the social life of the group living animals. The main goal of our study was to analyze the reactions of established, breeding families of the Sinai spiny mouse, Acomys dimidiatus (Muridae, Rodentia), a social species with precocial pups, to male newcomers in the presence and the absence of a breeding resident male. We compared the behaviour of family members of different sex or age to the presence of a new male. The number of non-aggressive and aggressive interactions with the focal male (resident/newcomer male) was recorded during three periods: before, during and one month after the addition of the newcomer. Only a few aggressive and/or non-aggressive types of contacts occurred before and one month after the addition of the new male. During the experiment, both types of contacts arose, but the results were highly variable. Increased aggressive behaviour of the family toward the intruder was explained mainly by the presence of pregnant or lactating females, which suggests that aggression towards a male newcomer is associated with the reproductive status of females. This phenomenon is most likely connected with the counter-infanticide strategy.
Effects of a trematode infestation on body condition, reproduction and mating behaviors in a livebearing fish
Authors: Deaton Raelynn , Martin Rachel E. , Stoops Stacy B. , Cureton II James C. , Lewis Richard L.
Published: August 2011

Most studies of parasite-mediated sexual selection target organisms where female or male mate choice is the major driving force of sexual selection, leaving the effects of parasites on coercive mating systems understudied. Here, we investigated the role of a trematode infestation (black spot disease (BSD)) on female body condition, female fecundity, male coercion, and female resistance in a coercive livebearing fish (the western mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis). We tested the following predictions: (1) infected females are in poorer body condition and have lower fecundity than uninfected females; (2) males prefer to coerce uninfected females; (3) infected males coerce less frequently than uninfected males; and (4) infected females are less resistant to male coercion. In contrast to our first prediction, infected females had more energy reserves than uninfected females during one month and infected females had increased fecundity compared to uninfected females. In the behavior experiments, we found BSD influenced male coercion in two of our experiments supporting our third, but not second or fourth, prediction. These results suggest this parasitic infestation may play a minor role in sexual selection on G. affinis.
Clinically healthy amphibians in captive collections and at pet fairs: A reservoir of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
Authors: Woeltjes Tonnie , Rendle Matthew , der Sluijs Annemarieke Spitzen-van , Haesebrouck Freddy , Martel An , Pasmans Frank , Wombwell Emma , Van Rooij Pascale , Zollinger Ronald
Published: August 2011

Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis is the cause of the fungal disease chytridiomycosis, a potentially lethal skin disease of amphibians. Asymptomatically infected amphibians may pose a risk for environmental pathogen pollution. This study therefore assessed the role of healthy, captive amphibians as a reservoir of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. Samples were collected from captive amphibians in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and France (559 from anurans, 330 from urodelans and 4 from gymnophians) from private owners, zoos, and laboratories. In addition to which, 78 anurans from 19 living collections were sampled during a pet fair in the Netherlands. Nearly 3% of the captive amphibians were infected by B. dendrobatidis, and 13.6% of the collections yielded at least one positive result. At the fair, 7 out of 78 anurans, representing 2 collections were positive. None of the animals that tested positive showed any obvious health problems at the time of sampling. Our results demonstrate the potential of the amphibian pet trade as a vehicle for the spread of B. dendrobatidis.
Survival of Alytes cisternasii tadpoles in stream pools: a capture-recapture study using photo-identification
Authors: Ribeiro Joana , Rebelo Rui
Published: August 2011

For amphibians with complex life cycles, the regulation of populations may occur in each life history stage and although available data stress the importance of studying amphibian population dynamics during the larval stage, most studies so far still focus only on the adult phase, due to the difficulty to estimate larval survival under field conditions. Through a two-months capture-recapture study of 646 photo-identified tadpoles of Alytes cisternasii we aimed to estimate tadpole survival in isolated temporary stream pools – their main habitat – as well as to evaluate how pool characteristics and intraspecific competition (tadpole density) affect this parameter. Photo-identification was performed with the help of the software I3S. We used the POPAN formulation of the Jolly-Seber model to estimate survival rates and population size in 9 stream pools. Tadpole density varied from ∼1 to 40 tadpoles · m–2. Tadpole weekly survival was relatively high, varying from 75 to 99% · week–1. Among-pool differences in survival were best explained by pool depth, and not by tadpole density or other pool characteristics. The lower survival estimates were obtained for the deep pools. The very high survival estimates for some pools are an indication that this type of discrete habitat may play an important role for this species. To our knowledge, this is the first time that photo-identification is used to obtain estimates for survival and density of tadpoles.
Eastern Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) with proportionally larger heads are in better condition
Authors: Elgee Karen , Blouin-Demers Gabriel
Published: August 2011

We investigated sexual size dimorphism and trophic morphology dimorphism in Eastern Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) to test predictions derived from the reproductive role hypothesis. Our first objective was to examine whether structures involved in feeding (head and jaws) are more divergent than body size. Female T. sirtalis were larger than males and had proportionally larger heads. Our second objective was to look for an advantage of large head size by examining the relationship between body condition and head size. Body condition was positively correlated with relative head size in T. sirtalis for both sexes, in agreement with the reproductive role hypothesis.
Tail breakage frequency as an indicator of predation risk for the aquatic snake Natrix maura
Authors: Vidal-García Marta , Llorente Gustavo A. , León Raúl , Pleguezuelos Juan M. , Filippakopoulou Aikaterini , Santos Xavier , Feriche Mónica
Published: August 2011

It is difficult to measure predation risk for secretive animals such as snakes. The frequency of tail breakage has been suggested as a parameter for measuring predation risk in these reptiles. Consequently, we hypothesise that tail breakage frequency is expected to vary intraspecifically between populations submitted to different numbers of predators, probably, to different predation risk. The colubrid snake Natrix maura has adapted to living on fish farms, which are protected from aerial predators by wire mesh, so that these farms provide researchers with a predator-exclusion scenario. We measured tail breakage frequency in this snake on a fish farm and compared the results with data from three populations in natural settings in the Iberian Peninsula under assumed higher predation risk from a complete community of predators. A logistic regression analysis demonstrated that snake body size and predator exclusion affected the probability of tail breakage, while sex had no effect. We found an ontogenetic increase in the frequency of tail breakage, a general pattern in snakes and, notably, marked differences between populations according to predation risk: snakes from the fish farm showed a low frequency of tail breakage (5.1%), whereas snakes from natural habitats, with five-fold more potential predators on average, demonstrated a higher frequency of tail breakage (18.7%). We conclude that tail breakage frequency is a reliable indicator of predation risk in this aquatic snake.
Mitochondrial sequences do not support the independent taxonomic position of the extinct Alpine newt subspecies Mesotriton alpestris lacusnigri
Authors: Lužnik Martina , Kryštufek Boris , Bužan Elena Varljen
Published: August 2011

Mesotriton alpestris lacusnigri is regarded as being an extinct subspecies of the Alpine newt endemic to a small fishless alpine lake called Črno jezero (Black Lake) in the Julian Alps in Slovenia. To re-assess its taxonomic position we sequenced fragments of two mitochondrial genes (309 bp of cytochrome b and 315 bp of 16S rRNA) of two museum specimens collected in 1953. Specimens of the ssp. lacusnigri yielded two new haplotypes which formed a monophyletic group within a cluster of other Slovenian and central European haplotypes of ssp. alpestis. The name lacusnigri is therefore merely a junior synonym of the nominotypical subspecies and should be removed from red data listing. Our study highlights the outstanding value of natural history collections as baselines for contemporary biodiversity assessments.
Symbolic Accoutrements of Power: Appropriation of Culture within the British Managerial Elite
Authors: Warde Alan
Published: August 2011

This paper arises from a study examining cultural participation, knowledge and taste across the British population. The study includes in-depth interviews with a small number of individuals occupying prestigious positions in British business, politics and administration. A managerial elite, they exhibit a significant degree of homogeneity of cultural attachment and invest heavily in participation in many cultural activities. Their pattern of cultural consumption is described in terms of three principles: plenitude, proficiency and capability. This paper focuses on a number of mechanisms of acculturation, which are identified and illustrated. Differences associated with social trajectory are emphasised. The everyday routine nature of intensive and selective cultural consumption for this section of the population is noted and it is shown how culture is embedded in social life through social connections. Implications for the status and changing character of legitimate culture are considered, leading to reflections on the demise of the British “Establishment” and the changing role of culture in elite formation.
Lifestyles of the Rich and Infamous: The Creation and Implications of China’s New Aristocracy
Authors: Gerth Karl
Published: August 2011

This essay examines how the consumption of luxury goods and services in contemporary China has become a key way of defining membership in what Chinese popularly refer to as the “new rich” (xin fu) or “new aristocracy” (xin gui). During the Maoist era (1949-1976) and extending into the first decade of the Reform Era in China (1978-1988), political power bestowed modest material advantages. But now state officials can directly - or indirectly via their friends, family, and even mistresses - convert political power into wealth and pursue more luxurious lifestyles, fueling both popular desire for the lifestyles of the rich and a deep resentment based on the belief that many of the new rich secured access to those lifestyles through graft.
Distinctly Different Everywhere: Politics of Appearance Amongst Rana Elites Inside and Outside Nepal
Authors: Lotter Stefanie
Published: August 2011

Based on fieldwork with the Rana clan in Nepal, the author argues that ways of distinction differ between cultures but can be transferred and introduced cross culturally. Thus relocated, unfamiliar ways of distinction may be used as strategic tools to gain status otherwise unattainable. Taking the Ranas of Nepal as an example, the author shows with historical references that introducing foreign ways of distinction does however not come without complications. Customs have to be modified, the rules of religious obligations bent and first-rate performance is necessary to convince locals and foreigners that a new social hierarchy has been established.
Cosmopolitan Culture as Elite Distinction among African Business Professionals in Johannesburg
Authors: Bourgouin France
Published: August 2011

This article unpacks the practices of cosmopolitan elite distinction among a group of successful business professionals of African origin, who were employed in middle and senior management positions in Johannesburg during the height of the “bull market” in 2004. It considers the self-identification of these professionals as cosmopolitan in light of our theoretical understanding of social distinction. Building on Veblen, Bourdieu, and Goffman, this article shows how these business professionals claiming to belong to a cosmopolitan community enacted these hierarchies through everyday distinctions in place, leisure and dress. The article concludes that while cosmopolitanism is an escape from local African identity, appeals to a cosmopolitan community transform and reconfigure society through the inscription of new inequalities and particularities.
Elite Distinction and Regime Change: The Ethiopian Case
Authors: Vadala Alexander Attilio
Published: August 2011

This article analyzes the symbolic manifestations of power by Ethiopian political elites at the national level. It explains what power symbols they associate themselves with and what meanings these symbols have. More particularly, it analyzes whether these power symbols have changed over time, and if so what explains the change(s). These questions are answered by comparing the last three Ethiopian regimes. The article relies on secondary sources and on the author’s personal observations.
Image and Text in the Jewish Epitaphs of Late Ancient Rome
Authors: Williams Margaret H.
Published: August 2011

This paper aims to establish for the first time the relationship between the verbal and visual elements of the Jewish epitaphs from 3d/4th-century C.E. Rome. A close analysis of the approximately 500 usable inscriptions leads to the conclusion that, the Jewish character of most of the images notwithstanding, the key operative factor at every social level was Roman memorialisation practice. The study thus throws considerable light on the acculturation of Rome’s Jews in Late Antiquity. Two appendices, in which all the symbols that occur are listed individually and by cluster, complete the study.
Confession cum Deliverance:In/Dividuality of the Subject Among Kinshasa’s Born-Again Christians
Authors: Pype Katrien
Published: August 2011

The article deals with the social significance of confessions among Kinshasa’s born-again Christians.1 Together with conversion narratives and former witches’ testimonies, confessions represent the main discursive rituals in the religious practices of newborn Christians. The analysis departs from the observation that among Kinshasa’s born-again Christians confessions are usually preceded or followed by deliverance rituals, and, that they are rarely acted out in an intimate and private encounter with the pastor. Rather, these narratives are usually expressed in public, preferably with the sinners’ victims as audience. The public nature of the confessions and their co-occurrence with spiritual cleansing as performed via deliverance rituals allow us to embark on an analysis that foregrounds the uncertainty of the Christian subject and the ways in which the subject can emerge but also be broken down.
(In-)Dividual Pentecostals in Ghana
Authors: Daswani Girish
Published: August 2011

How are Ghanaian Pentecostals related to others, not just as individuals but relationally and as partible and divisible selves that have an influential force over each other? In answering this question I use the example of two Ghanaian Pentecostal women who face personal problems in their lives and who seek different alternatives in alleviating their suffering. While claims to individuality may be important in born-again conversion, I argue that we also need to consider how Pentecostal Christians are dividual and related to others. In doing so, I examine these Ghanaian Pentecostal women as ethical subjects who are involved in balancing individual achievements against moral obligations to others.
The Role of Air–Sea Interaction for Prediction of Australian Summer Monsoon Rainfall
Authors: Hendon Harry H. , Lim Eun-Pa , Liu Guo
Published: August 2011

Forecast skill for seasonal mean rainfall across northern Australia is lower during the summer monsoon than in the premonsoon transition season based on 25 years of hindcasts using the Predictive Ocean Atmosphere Model for Australia (POAMA) coupled model seasonal forecast system. The authors argue that this partly reflects an intrinsic property of the monsoonal system, whereby seasonally varying air–sea interaction in the seas around northern Australia promotes predictability in the premonsoon season and demotes predictability after monsoon onset. Trade easterlies during the premonsoon season support a positive feedback between surface winds, SST, and rainfall, which results in stronger and more persistent SST anomalies to the north of Australia that compliment the remote forcing of Australian rainfall from El Niño in the Pacific. After onset of the Australian summer monsoon, this local feedback is not supported in the monsoonal westerly regime, resulting in weaker SST anomalies to the north of Australia and with lower persistence than in the premonsoon season. Importantly, the seasonality of this air–sea interaction is captured in the POAMA forecast model. Furthermore, analysis of perfect model forecasts and forecasts generated by prescribing observed SST results in largely the same conclusion (i.e., significantly lower actual and potential forecast skill during the monsoon), thereby supporting the notion that air–sea interaction contributes to intrinsically lower predictability of rainfall during the monsoon.
On the Squall Lines Preceding Landfalling Tropical Cyclones in China
Authors: Meng Zhiyong , Zhang Yunji
Published: August 2011

Based on a 3-yr (2007–09) mosaic of radar reflectivity and conventional surface and synoptic radiosonde observations, the general features of squall lines preceding landfalling tropical cyclones (TCs) (pre-TC) in China are examined and compared with their midlatitude and subtropical counterparts. The results show that about 40% of landfalling TCs are associated with pre-TC squall lines with high-occurring frequency in August and from late afternoon to midnight. Most pre-TC squall lines form in a broken-line mode with a trailing-stratiform organization. On average, they occur about 600 km from the TC center in the front-right quadrant with a maximum length of 220 km, a maximum radar reflectivity of 57–62 dBZ, a life span of 4 h, and a moving speed of 12.5 m s−1. Pre-TC squall lines are generally shorter in lifetime and length than typical midlatitude squall lines.

Pre-TC squall lines tend to form in the transition area between the parent TC and subtropical high in a moist environment and with a weaker cold pool than their midlatitude counterparts. The environmental 0–3-km vertical shear is around 10 m s−1 and generally normal to the orientation of the squall lines. This weak shear makes pre-TC squall lines in a suboptimal condition according to the Rottuno–Klemp–Weisman (RKW) theory. Convection is likely initiated by low-level mesoscale frontogenesis, convergence, and/or confluence instead of synoptic-scale forcing. The parent TC may contribute to (i) the development of convection by enhancing conditional instability and low-level moisture supply, and (ii) the linear organization of discrete convection through the interaction between the TC and the neighboring environmental system.
Competitive intelligence in the biopharmaceutical industry
Authors: Aspinall Yulia
Published: August 2011

Competitive Intelligence (CI) can be described as a process of gathering, analysing and interpreting internal and external intelligence on competitors and the competitive environment to guide a company’s strategy, planning and tactical decision making in its commercial operations. Intelligence provision is done through the CI cycle, which includes identification of key intelligence topics and questions, intelligence collection, analysis, interpretation and dissemination. CI can bring value to the company if it is delivered regularly and if no elements of the CI cycle are overlooked.
RSS to monitor business threats
Authors: O’Flynn Sheila
Published: August 2011

This article discusses practical issues around using RSS and Google Reader to monitor business threats. RSS technology offers speed, efficiency and sustainability in any process which aims to monitor threats to critical suppliers or materials. A framework for conceptualizing and ordering business threats is outlined and includes ways of looking at blogs, tweets, news feeds, company websites and more. Finally the author gives details of how to customize Google’s RSS reader to ensure maximum efficiency.
Does the Party Matter? Endorsements in Congressional Primaries
Authors: Dominguez Casey B. K.
Published: August 2011

Research suggests that endorsements should affect outcomes in low-information elections such as primaries, but that hypothesis has not yet been tested empirically. Based on a survey of 2002 congressional campaigns, this article describes the universe of individuals and groups that offer endorsements to primary candidates and analyzes their effects on primary election results. It finds that a primary candidate’s share of the partisan endorsements issued in the race significantly affects the candidate’s vote share, even controlling for campaign funds and candidate quality. Implications for theories of candidate emergence and success are discussed.
Influence of electrolyte pH on composition, corrosion properties and surface morphology of electrodeposited Cu–Ni alloy
Authors: Mohan S , Rajasekaran N
Published: August 2011

Cu–Ni alloys were electrodeposited by the brush plating technique from sulphate/citrate electrolyte at various pH values. The effects of pH on composition and surface morphological properties of alloys were investigated by X-ray fluorescence and atomic force microscopy. The Cu content increased in the composition of Cu–Ni alloy at electrolyte pH 2. The deposition mechanisms of Cu, Ni and Cu–Ni were investigated by cyclic voltammetry. The lower electrolyte pH leads to the higher reduction current density. The corrosion behaviours of the deposits at different pH values were investigated by Tafel analysis and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The corrosion studies indicate that the Cu–Ni alloy exhibits better corrosion resistance at higher pH values than at lower pH values. The surface roughness decreases with increasing solution pH and this observation was confirmed by atomic force microscopy measurements.
Relationship between distinctness of image of organic coatings and texture of substrate sheets
Authors: Lu L , Ren Y L , Wen N M , Li X G
Published: August 2011

With the application of scanning electrical microscopy, surface profilometer and surface mapping microscopy, the two- and three-dimensional surface morphologies of the different substrate sheets, including cold rolling, hot dipped galvanised and electrogalvanised sheets, were characterised. The overlaid effect of paint on the surface texture of substrate sheets was analysed with the aid of low pass filtering. The specular gloss and distinctness of image (DOI) of organic coating were also measured, which are finally related to the texture of substrate sheets. The results showed that the DOI of organic coating on cold rolling, hot dipped galvanised and electrogalvanised sheets were ranked in descending order, which was identical to the tendency presented by the roughness and waviness of substrate sheets. A series of parameters was postulated under the consideration of DOI control for organic coating. In this study, the DOI score was >69% when Ra<0·86 μm, Rz<5·43 μm, Rpm<2·26 μm, Sm<78·81 μm and Wca<0·411 μm.
Effects of bias on properties of Ti–C: H films coated by filtered cathodic vacuum arc
Authors: Lee S , Chu C-L , Gwo J , Huang J-J , Tsai M-J , Wang S-M
Published: August 2011

A bias voltage apparatus is attached to the filtered cathode vacuum arc system for coating a diamond-like film containing Ti on WC substrate. Ti, which acts as the cathode target, is sputtered by plasma, and reacts with C2H2 gas, then deposits on the WC under working conditions of 60 A current and voltage between −50 and −275 V. Such processed diamond-like film containing Ti(Ti–C:H) is analysed by glow discharge spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and nanoindentation for determining Ti concentration, crystallographic structure, bonding mode and mechanical properties. Characteristic parameters are determined to obtain suitable properties, and the underlying reasons are also addressed.
Synthesis and tribological properties of MoS2 composite nanoparticles with different morphologies
Authors: Hu K H , Cai Y K , Hu X G , Xu Y F
Published: August 2011

Molybdenum disulphide composite particles made of both hollow nanospheres and nanoplatelets were synthesised in a single process using a chemical method that was optimised by adjusting the relative proportions of Na2S and thioacetamide (TAA) precursors. The composite nanoparticles were characterised using powder X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and thermal analysis; four-ball tribological tests were used to assess their lubricating effect when used as additives in liquid paraffin dispersions. The results showed that composite nanoparticles of appropriate shape distribution could only be synthesised with a high dosage of TAA: too high concentrations of Na2S were shown to destroy the template chain of TAA and disturbed the formation of nanospheres. The MoS2 composite particles exhibited a better lubricating effect as compared to composite particles produced by mechanical mixing of separately produced nanospheres and nanoplatelets, confirming that the chemical method can lead to a better synergistic lubrication between two kinds of MoS2 nanoparticles.