bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversity, natural history, and geographic distribution of snakes in the Caatinga, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: GUEDES THAÍS B. , NOGUEIRA CRISTIANO , MARQUES OTAVIO A.V.
Published: September 2014

The present study is a synthesis on snake diversity and distribution in the Caatinga region of northeastern Brazil, providing an updated species list and data on natural history and geographic distribution. Our study is based on the careful revision of 7,102 voucher specimens, housed in 17 herpetological collections, complemented by data on taxonomic literature. We recorded a total of 112 snake species in the Caatinga, belonging to nine families: Anomalepididae, Leptotyphlopidae, Typhlopidae, Aniliidae, Boidae, Viperidae, Elapidae, Colubridae, and Dipsadidae. Our list includes at least 13 never recorded species for this region, as well as distribution records for all species known from the Caatinga (including expansion and new records of distribution). The snake assemblage of the Caatinga is complex, sharing species with other continental open areas (38.4%), forested areas (27.7%), and both open and forested areas (32.1%). The richest areas were isolated plateaus, followed by contact areas, semi-arid caatinga, and sandy dunes of the São Franscisco River. We identified 22 Caatinga endemic species with the sandy dunes of São Franscico River showing the highest endemism level (12 species, with six endemic species restricted to the area) followed by semi-arid caatinga, and isolated plateaus (eight endemic species each, and six and three endemic species with restricted distribution to each area, respectively). Most species show relatively restricted ranges in parts of the Caatinga. The snake assemblage in Caatinga includes mainly terrestrial species (38.4%), followed by fossorial/cryptozoic (26.8%), arboreal/semi-arboreal (26.8%), and aquatic/semi-aquatic (7.1%) species. Vertebrates are the most important dietary item (80.4%), with 56.6% of species being generalist consumers of this kind of prey; 24.4% are frog-eaters, 7.8% prey on caecilians/amphisbaenians, 6.7% lizard-eaters, 3.3% mammal-eaters, and 1.1% are fish-eaters. Only 18.7% of the snakes eat invertebrate prey, as arthropods, annelids, and mollusks. In relation to time of activity, 35.7% of snakes are both diurnal and nocturnal, 33.0% are strictly nocturnal, and 30.4% are diurnal. The data provided herein increase the list of Caatinga snake species from 50 to 112, and includes detailed maps and information on geographic distribution. The Caatinga snake assemblage shows high richness and endemism levels, and our results highlight the usefulness of basic natural history data and revision of voucher specimens as baseline information for biogeographic studies and conservation strategies.
Faunistic review of the cuckoo wasps of Fennoscandia, Denmark and the Baltic countries (Hymenoptera: Chrysididae)
Authors: PAUKKUNEN JUHO , ROSA PAOLO , SOON VILLU , JOHANSSON NIKLAS , ØDEGAARD FRODE
Published: September 2014

A critical and annotated review of published records of the Chrysididae of the Nordic and Baltic countries and the Russian part of Fennoscandia is presented with some taxonomic and faunistic notes. A total of 73 species are listed from the region. Additionally, 17 species are deleted. Three species are recorded for the first time from Denmark, six species from Estonia, one from Finland, eleven from Latvia, four from Norway, one from Sweden and 15 from Russian Fennoscandia. Elampus foveatus and Chrysis pulcherrima are reported for the first time from the Nordic and Baltic countries. Lectotypes are designated for Hedychrum cupreum Dahlbom, 1845, Chrysis zetterstedti Dahlbom, 1845, Chrysis succincta var. chrysoprasina Trautmann, 1927, Chrysis succincta var. virideocincta Trautmann, 1927 and Chrysis succincta var. nordstromi Trautmann, 1927. Information and images of the holotypes of Hedychrum metallicum Dahlbom, 1854, Chrysis succincta var. westerlundi Trautmann, 1927 are given. Chrysis integra Dahlbom, 1829 is found to be a new synonym of Hedychridium ardens (Coquebert, 1801) and Chrysis scintillans Valkeila, 1971 a new synonym of Chrysis solida Haupt, 1957. Chrysis terminata Dahlbom, 1854 is reported for the first time as the valid name for C. ignita Form A sensu Linsenmaier, 1959.
Augustine and Spiritual Autobiography, Part 1
Authors: Hollingworth Miles
Published: September 2014

This is the first of two articles investigating the extent to which an appreciation of St. Augustine of Hippo’s Confessions as literature can morph into an appreciation of them as Christian apologetics. I begin by acknowledging the value of saying that the Confessions should primarily be understood historically and philologically as a key document in the emergence of Christian orthodoxy in late antiquity. But I then look to what we might recover from them of unmediated spiritual truth. I argue that the back story to the book may be its plain virtuosity and inspiration, rather than the factionalisms of North African Christianity and the projection of one man’s view.
Cultural Differences in Perceptions of Intragroup Conflict and Preferred Conflict-Management Behavior
Authors: Murayama Aya , Ryan Carey S. , Shimizu Hiroshi , Kurebayashi Koichi , Miura Asako
Published: September 2014

This study focused on cultural differences in perceived relationship and task conflict within groups and preferences for active and agreeable conflict-management behavior. Task conflict (low vs. high) and relationship conflict (low vs. high) were manipulated within subjects in a 2 × 2 × 2 (culture) mixed design. Japanese ( n = 100) and American ( n = 121) undergraduate students rated each scenario with respect to task conflict, relationship conflict, and preferred conflict-management behavior. Results showed that task and relationship conflict were mistaken for each other in both cultures; however, Americans misattributed strong task conflict to relationship conflict more than Japanese. Cultural differences in preferred conflict management also emerged. Japanese preferred active conflict management more than Americans in the strong (vs. weak) task conflict situation when relationship conflict was low (vs. high), whereas Americans preferred active conflict management more than Japanese when relationship conflict was high—regardless of task conflict. Finally, Americans preferred agreeable conflict-management behavior more than Japanese when both types of conflict were low.
Situating the local in the neoliberalisation and transformation of urban governance
Authors: Blanco Ismael , Griggs Steven , Sullivan Helen
Published: September 2014

The local state, and more broadly the logic of the local, remains divorced from accounts of urban governance. Addressing this omission, this article examines how a focus on the local opens up new avenues of enquiry in urban governance. It first discusses the interactions of the ‘urban’ and the ‘local’, analysing the significance of both to an understanding of neoliberalism in action. It then evaluates the opportunities and challenges that emerge from the multiple interplays of the ‘local’ and the ‘urban’, setting out five focal points for the exploration of the local: understandings of ‘crisis’; politics, meaning and affect; agency and regulatory intermediaries; the turn to practice; and place and comparison. The article concludes by calling for the study of local practices, in ways that recognise the multiple logics at play in different conjunctures, and the spaces such ambiguities and ‘messiness’ open up for different forms of situated agency.
Between Tourists’ Faith and Perceptions of Travel Risk
Authors: Mansfeld Yoel , Jonas Aliza , Cahaner Lee
Published: September 2014

Attempting to uncover the factors that generate risk perceptions, the literature so far has been looking primarily at sociodemographic determinants. Significantly less attention has been given to cultural constructs as possible explanatory determinants. This exploratory paper aims to show within the cultural framework how being a religious tourist shapes one’s range, characteristics, and relative importance of travel-related risk perceptions. The study used Haredi women (a community of ultraorthodox religious Jews living in Israel) as a case study and nominal group technique (NGT) embedded into a value stretch model as an integrated methodology. Results show that unlike what was initially postulated, Haredim share risk perceptions common among nonreligious tourists but they are more concerned with travel logistics and physical conditions. However, religiously induced risk perceptions are surprisingly minimal due to zero risk tolerance. Consequently, operation management issues are discussed to offer risk-reduced travel to groups with special risk perception characteristics.
An alternative treatment approach in tetanus: Botulinum toxin
Authors: Aktug Demir Nazlim , Sumer Sua , Ural Onur , Ozturk Serefnur , Celik Jale Bengi
Published: September 2014

Tetanus is a preventable infectious disease caused by tetanus toxin (tetanospasmin) produced by Clostridium tetani. Tetanus is still an important health problem in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Botulinum toxin administration is a treatment approach that has been used in recent years to reduce rigidity and spasms in tetanus patients. This case report focuses on its efficacy.
Moral Transformation and Local Identity
Authors: McNeal Robin
Published: September 2014

The article explores recent restoration of ancient temples and the creation of new, modern monuments dedicated to the legendary sage ruler Shun, considered one of the “founding fathers” of the Chinese people and state. The article shows how local elites have tried to build a sense of their community’s historical and moral identity while at the same time pursuing economic and political advantage through the promotion of cultural sites. Drawing on time-honored symbols and narratives that celebrate the unity of the Chinese state, these local constructions of Chinese identity promote the local and regional while integrating with higher levels of social and political organization, ultimately re-creating and reinforcing the Chinese nation and, through an appeal to Sinophone sentiment, extrapolating a global Chinese identity. The powerful hold that historical memory still has on people’s imaginations is revealed through an examination of prominent temple sites in two locales, in southwestern Hunan and northern Zhejiang.
Impact of Oral Nutrition Supplements on Hospital Outcomes in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Lakdawalla Darius N. , Mascarenhas Maria , Jena Anupam B. , Vanderpuye‐Orgle Jacqueline , LaVallee Chris , Linthicum Mark T. , Snider Julia Thornton
Published: September 2014

Background: Nutrition deficiency is common among hospitalized children. Although oral nutrition supplements (ONS) may improve malnutrition in this population, the benefits and healthcare costs associated with their use have not yet been fully explored. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of ONS use on inpatient length of stay (LOS) and episode cost in hospitalized children. Materials and Methods: Retrospective analysis of 557,348 hospitalizations of children aged 2–8 years in the Premier Research Database. The effect of ONS use on LOS and episode cost in a propensity score– matched sample was estimated in analyses with and without the use of instrumental variables (IVs) to reduce confounding from unobserved variables. Results: ONS were prescribed in 6066 of 557,348 inpatient episodes (1.09%). In IV analysis, using a matched sample of 11,031 episodes, hospitalizations with ONS use had 14.8% shorter LOS (6.4 vs 7.5 days; 1.1 days [95% CI, 0.2–2.4]). Hospitalizations with ONS use had 9.7% lower cost ($16,552 vs $18,320; $1768 [95% CI, $1924–$1612]). Conclusions: ONS use was associated with lower LOS and episode cost among pediatric inpatients. ONS use in hospitalized pediatric patients may provide a cost‐effective, evidence‐based approach to improving pediatric hospital care.
Economic Burden Associated With Hospital Postadmission Dehydration
Authors: Pash Elizabeth , Parikh Niraj , Hashemi Lobat
Published: September 2014

Background: Development of dehydration after hospital admission can be a measure of quality care, but evidence describing the incidence, economic burden, and outcomes of dehydration in hospitalized patients is lacking. Objective: The objective of this study was to compare costs and resource utilization of U.S. patients experiencing postadmission dehydration (PAD) with those who do not in a hospital setting. Methods: All adult inpatient discharges, excluding those with suspected dehydration present on admission (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification [ICD‐9‐CM] codes for dehydration: 276.0, 276.1, 276.5), were identified from the Premier database using ICD‐9‐CM codes. PAD and no‐PAD (NPAD) groups were matched on propensity score adjusting for demographics (age, sex, race, medical, elective patients), patient severity (All Patient Refined Diagnosis‐Related Groups severity scores), and hospital characteristics (geographic location, bed size, teaching and urban hospital). Costs, length of stay (LOS), and incidence of mortality and catheter‐associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) were compared between groups using the t test for continuous variables and the χ2 test for categorical variables. Results: In total, 86,398 (2.1%) of all the selected patients experienced PAD. Postmatching mean total costs were significantly higher for the PAD group compared with the NPAD group ($33,945 vs $22,380; P < .0001). Departmental costs were also significantly higher for the PAD group (all P < .0001). Compared with the NPAD group, the PAD group had a higher mean LOS (12.9 vs 8.2 days), a higher incidence of CAUTI (0.6% vs 0.5%), and higher in‐hospital mortality (8.6% vs 7.8%) (all P < .05). The results for subgroup analysis also showed significantly higher total cost and longer LOS days for patients with PAD (all P < .05). Conclusions: The economic burden associated with hospital PAD in medical and surgical patients was substantial.
Knowledge and Use of Emergency Contraception in College Women
Authors: Lehan Mackin Melissa , Clark M. Kathleen , McCarthy Ann Marie , Farris Karen
Published: September 2014

Despite the value of emergency contraception (EC) in reducing unintended pregnancy, use in college women has not been widely studied. This exploratory descriptive study, using a web-based survey, described knowledge and use of EC in 2,007 college women and identified associations between selected personal characteristics and EC use. Most women (72.2%) knew EC could be obtained over the counter and was most effective within 72 hr of intercourse (93%). Women inaccurately thought EC was effective through the first trimester of pregnancy (87.1%) and could cause birth defects (27.8%). Among sexually active women, 37% reported use. Experiencing a false alarm pregnancy, knowing that EC was available over the counter, and being Asian/Pacific Islander were positively associated with use. Additional studies should explore the utility of EC in other populations and efforts should be stepped up to provide accurate information about access and mechanism of use.
The Biopolitics of Biometrics: An interview with Btihaj Ajana
Authors: Beer David
Published: September 2014

As a result of a growing interest in neoliberal political economy, surveillance and new forms of data, questions around metrics and the governance of life are moving to the forefront of contemporary conceptual analysis. This particular interview draws upon the key themes from Btihaj Ajana’s recently published book Governing through Biometrics: The Biopolitics of Identity (2013). Although the interview focuses centrally upon the book, it also covers broader topics including identity, measurement, the work of Foucault, big data, biopolitics, bioethics and biometrics. Ajana’s book sketches out a valuable conceptual set of resources for thinking through these pressing issues, the interview looks to explore how such a set of resources might continue to develop.
Dubai in extremis
Authors: Smith Richard G
Published: September 2014

Dubai, the most extreme example to date of a realized neo-liberal capitalist urban utopia, is perhaps at its point of death. That is to say that, barring suicide, the only hope Dubai’s bonded labour – those tricked, forced and exploited into negated lives of low-paid wage servitude – have of losing their chains, given the emirate’s resilience to objections and protests from a multitude of commentators and activists, seems to be the stalling of construction, the falling demand for building projects – mega or otherwise – that the latest major financial crisis and economic recession necessitates.
More national less European? The comparison of the last two general elections in Turkey
Authors: Toker Huriye
Published: September 2014

This article will examine how the media reported the 2011 election campaign in Turkey in comparison to the 2007 elections. In order to reflect the different ideological segments within the society (pro-secular, nationalist vs religious-conservative), four newspapers – Zaman, Cumhuriyet, Hürriyet and Posta – are chosen. The empirical evidence suggests that there are similarities between the analysis of the 2011 elections and the previous research findings of the 2007 elections with regard to the topics garnered, the main themes and the absence of the European Union-membership-related narratives. Yet, we also observe a major difference in the 2011 elections. The themes of the contestation between competing party programmes, values, and issue positions have shifted away from the secularism and Islam to the daily politics such as the economic progress, the military operations, the terrorist attacks, the corruption allegations and the Kurdish issue.
Different effects of alcohol on automatic detection of colour, location and time change: A mismatch negativity study
Authors: He Jinbo , Hu Yue , Pakarinen Satu , Li Bingbing , Zhou Zongkui
Published: September 2014

The effects of alcohol on pre-attentive processing have been well studied in the past decades. However, the majority of studies focus on pre-attentive auditory processing and only a few studies have examined the effects of alcohol on visual processing. This study investigates the effects of alcohol on automatic pre-attentive processing of visual changes in colour, location and duration. We compared the mean amplitudes and the amplitude decline ratios of visual mismatch negativity (vMMN) responses elicited for small and large changes in image colour, location and duration in 12 individuals under the influence of alcohol and in a placebo condition. The vMMN amplitudes for changes in location and duration significantly decreased in the alcohol condition as compared with the placebo condition, and the magnitude of decrease was not related to the magnitude of change in the deviant stimuli. However, the amplitude of colour vMMN, in the alcohol condition, did not change significantly compared to the placebo condition. These results show that pre-attentive visual processing is impaired by alcohol, and that this impairment may be feature-specific. In addition, this impairment was not related to the magnitude of stimuli change.
Serotonergic impairment and memory deficits in adolescent rats after binge exposure of methylone
Authors: López-Arnau Raúl , Martínez-Clemente José , Pubill David , Escubedo Elena , Camarasa Jorge
Published: September 2014

Methylone is a cathinone derivative that has recently emerged as a designer drug of abuse in Europe and the USA. Studies on the acute and long-term neurotoxicity of cathinones are starting to be conducted. We investigated the neurochemical/enzymatic changes indicative of neurotoxicity after methylone administration (4 × 20 mg/kg, subcutaneously, per day with 3 h intervals) to adolescent rats, to model human recreational use. In addition, we studied the effect of methylone on spatial learning ad memory using the Morris water maze paradigm. Our experiments were carried out at a high ambient temperature to simulate the hot conditions found in dance clubs where the drug is consumed. We observed a hyperthermic response to methylone that reached a peak 30 min after each dose. We determined a serotonergic impairment in methylone-treated rats, especially in the frontal cortex, where it was accompanied by astrogliosis. Some serotonergic alterations were also present in the hippocampus and striatum. No significant neurotoxic effect on the dopaminergic system was identified. Methylone-treated animals only displayed impairments in the probe trial of the Morris water maze, which concerns reference memory, while the spatial learning process seemed to be preserved.
Dopamine DRD2/ANKK1 Taq1A and DAT1 VNTR polymorphisms are associated with a cognitive flexibility profile in pathological gamblers
Authors: Fagundo Ana B , Fernández-Aranda Fernando , de la Torre Rafael , Verdejo-García Antonio , Granero Roser , Penelo Eva , Gené Manel , Barrot Carme , Sánchez Cristina , Alvarez-Moya Eva , Ochoa Cristian , Aymamí Maria Neus , Gómez-Peña Mónica , Menchón Jose M , Jiménez-Murcia Susana
Published: September 2014

Like drug addiction, pathological gambling (PG) has been associated with impairments in executive functions and alterations in dopaminergic functioning; however, the role of dopamine (DA) in the executive profile of PG remains unclear. The aim of this study was to identify whether the DRD2/ANKK1 Taq1A-rs1800497 and the DAT1-40 bp VNTR polymorphisms are associated with cognitive flexibility (measured by Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) and Trail Making Test (TMT)) and inhibition response (measured by Stroop Color and Word Test (SCWT)), in a clinical sample of 69 PG patients. Our results showed an association between DA functioning and cognitive flexibility performance. The Taq1A A1+ (A1A2/A1A1) genotype was associated with poorer TMT performance ( p < 0.05), while DAT1 9-repeat homozygotes displayed better WCST performance ( p < 0.05) than either 10-repeat homozygotes or heterozygotes. We did not find any association between the DRD2 or DAT1 polymorphisms and the inhibition response. These results suggested that pathological gamblers with genetic predispositions toward lower availability of DA and D2 receptor density are at a higher risk of cognitive flexibility difficulties. Future studies should aim to shed more light on the genetic mechanisms underlying the executive profile in PG.
On the Culture of Forgiveness: On ‘Victimhood, Vengefulness, and the Culture of Forgiveness’ by Urlić, Berger and Berman
Authors: Urlić Ivan
Published: September 2014

Victims with traumatic histories and hatred may suspect that forgiveness is an impossible illusion and resign themselves to an existence in a harsh, hostile world in which one is destined to live chronically by one’s sword; such a stance undermines constructive vision, hinders learning from experience, and obstructs healing and renewal. It is therefore crucial to enable the unfolding of a culture of forgiveness as an essential element woven into the process of reconciliation with oneself and others. In the framework of this dynamic the process of mourning all losses is of crucial importance, in order to restore the capacity to believe and to enable a dialogue to unfold.
The Social Unconscious and the Large Group – Part III: Listening to the Voices in the Wind
Authors: Tubert-Oklander Juan , Hernández-Tubert Reyna
Published: September 2014

This is the third of a series of three articles, based on the lecture we delivered at the International Workshop ‘Studies of Large Groups and Social Unconscious’, which took place in Belgrade in June 2013. In the first part we compared the British and the Latin American traditions of group analysis. In the second, we discussed the conception of the social unconscious and the group analytic large group, in both traditions. Now we present our own approach to large groups and discuss the problem of the wider context in which the large group takes place.
Modeling the resin flow and numerical simulation of the filling stage for vacuum-assisted resin infusion process
Authors: Yang Bo , Jin Tianguo , Bi Fengyang , Li Jianguang
Published: September 2014

The preform is covered by a flexible vacuum bag in vacuum-assisted resin infusion process, and the preform compaction state is time and space dependent during the mould-filling stage, there is no practical tool for the filling simulation. In this paper, the resin flow governing equations for vacuum-assisted resin infusion are built based on the analysis of the preform compaction behaviour and the fibre tow impregnation. For obtaining the numerical solution conveniently and accurately, an alternative approach is proposed in which the primary flow is computed from the normal Darcy’s law, two-slave elements are added to each master element, named sink slave element and deformation slave element, to calculate the resin mass variation caused by fibre tow infiltration and preform deformation. Three examples are conducted to verify the precision and broad applicability of the approach. The influence of the preform deformation and the unsaturated effect on the mould filling is analysed.
Evaluation of Five Methods for Genome-Wide Circadian Gene Identification
Authors: Wu Gang , Zhu Jiang , Yu Jun , Zhou Lan , Huang Jianhua Z. , Zhang Zhang
Published: September 2014

Identification of circadian-regulated genes based on temporal transcriptome data is important for studying the regulation mechanism of the circadian system. However, various computational methods adopting different strategies for the identification of cycling transcripts usually yield inconsistent results even for the same dataset, making it challenging to choose the optimal method for a specific circadian study. To address this challenge, we evaluate 5 popular methods, including ARSER (ARS), COSOPT (COS), Fisher’s G test (FIS), HAYSTACK (HAY), and JTK_CYCLE (JTK), based on both simulated and empirical datasets. Our results show that increasing the number of total samples (through improving sampling frequency or lengthening the sampling time window) is beneficial for computational methods to accurately identify circadian transcripts and measure circadian phase. For a given number of total samples, higher sampling frequency is more important for HAY and JTK, and the longer sampling time window is more crucial for ARS and COS, as testified on simulated and empirical datasets from which circadian signals are computationally identified. In addition, the preference of higher sampling frequency or the longer sampling time window is also obvious for JTK, ARS, and COS in estimating circadian phases of simulated periodic profiles. Our results also indicate that attention should be paid to the significance threshold that is used for each method in selecting circadian genes, especially when analyzing the same empirical dataset with 2 or more methods. To summarize, for any study involving genome-wide identification of circadian genes from transcriptome data, our evaluation results provide suggestions for the selection of an optimal method based on specific goal and experimental design.
A Specific Role for the REV-ERBα–Controlled L-Type Voltage-Gated Calcium Channel CaV1.2 in Resetting the Circadian Clock in the Late Night
Authors: Schmutz Isabelle , Chavan Rohit , Ripperger Jürgen A. , Maywood Elizabeth S. , Langwieser Nicole , Jurik Angela , Stauffer Anja , Delorme James E. , Moosmang Sven , Hastings Michael H. , Hofmann Franz , Albrecht Urs
Published: September 2014

Within the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, circadian timekeeping and resetting have been shown to be largely dependent on both membrane depolarization and intracellular second-messenger signaling. In both of these processes, voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) mediate voltage-dependent calcium influx, which propagates neural impulses by stimulating vesicle fusion and instigates intracellular pathways resulting in clock gene expression. Through the cumulative actions of these processes, the phase of the internal clock is modified to match the light cycle of the external environment. To parse out the distinct roles of the L-type VGCCs, we analyzed mice deficient in Cav1.2 ( Cacna1c) in brain tissue. We found that mice deficient in the Cav1.2 channel exhibited a significant reduction in their ability to phase-advance circadian behavior when subjected to a light pulse in the late night. Furthermore, the study revealed that the expression of Cav1.2 mRNA was rhythmic (peaking during the late night) and was regulated by the circadian clock component REV-ERBα. Finally, the induction of clock genes in both the early and late subjective night was affected by the loss of Cav1.2, with reductions in Per2 and Per1 in the early and late night, respectively. In sum, these results reveal a role of the L-type VGCC Cav1.2 in mediating both clock gene expression and phase advances in response to a light pulse in the late night.
The Hepatic Circadian Clock Modulates Xenobiotic Metabolism in Mice
Authors: DeBruyne Jason P. , Weaver David R. , Dallmann Robert
Published: September 2014

The circadian clock generates daily cycles of gene expression that regulate physiological processes. The liver plays an important role in xenobiotic metabolism and also has been shown to possess its own cell-based clock. The liver clock is synchronized by the master clock in the brain, and a portion of rhythmic gene expression can be driven by behavior of the organism as a whole even when the hepatic clock is suppressed. So far, however, there is relatively little evidence indicating whether the liver clock is functionally important in modulating xenobiotic metabolism. Thus, mice lacking circadian clock function in the whole body or specifically in liver were challenged with pentobarbital and acetaminophen, and pentobarbital sleep time (PBST) and acetaminophen toxicity, respectively, was assessed at different times of day in mutant and control mice. The results suggest that the liver clock is essential for rhythmic changes in xenobiotic detoxification. Surprisingly, it seems that the way in which the clock is disrupted determines the rate of xenobiotic metabolism in the liver. CLOCK-deficient mice are remarkably resistant to acetaminophen and exhibit a longer PBST, while PERIOD-deficient mice have a short PBST. These results indicate an essential role of the tissue-intrinsic peripheral circadian oscillator in the liver in regulating xenobiotic metabolism.
Embryonic Development of Circadian Oscillations in the Mouse Hypothalamus
Authors: Wreschnig Daniel , Dolatshad Hamid , Davis Fred C.
Published: September 2014

Circadian rhythms in mammals are regulated by the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The generation of circadian oscillations is a cell-autonomous property, and coupling among cells is essential for the SCN to function as a pacemaker. The development of SCN anatomy and cytology has been extensively studied, but the point in development when the SCN first has the capacity to generate circadian oscillations has not been established. We therefore examined the development of circadian oscillations using per2::luc mice in which bioluminescence tracks the expression of the circadian clock protein, PER2. In vitro, hypothalamic explants first expressed consistent oscillations when isolated between 15 and 16 days postfertilization (e15). Oscillations were more robust at later ages. Explants from other brain areas did not express oscillations, indicating that the development of oscillations is not a general property of embryonic tissue. SCN explants obtained on e14 did not initially express oscillations but developed them in vitro over 4 to 6 d. Although coupling among cells is required for the long-term expression of tissue-level oscillations, explants from mice lacking the coupling peptide vasoactive intestinal peptide still developed oscillations. In the mouse, the capacity to generate molecular oscillations on e15 coincides with the completion of neurogenesis and SCN-specific transcription factor expression. Thus, within a day of its genesis at an age approximately equivalent to the end of the first trimester in humans, the SCN develops the capacity to express circadian oscillations and autonomously develops mechanisms sufficient to couple and synchronize its cells.
Platelet-rich plasma encapsulation in hyaluronic acid/gelatin-BCP hydrogel for growth factor delivery in BCP sponge scaffold for bone regeneration
Authors: Son So-Ra , Sarkar Swapan Kumar , Linh Nguyen-Thuy Ba , Padalhin Andrew R , Kim Bo Ram , Jung Hae Il , Lee Byong-Taek
Published: September 2014

Microporous calcium phosphate based synthetic bone substitutes are used for bone defect healing. Different growth factor loading has been investigated for enhanced bone regeneration. The platelet is a cellular component of blood which naturally contains a pool of necessary growth factors that mediate initiation, continuation, and completion of cellular mechanism of healing. In this work, we have investigated the encapsulation and immobilization of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with natural polymers like hyaluronic acid (HA) and gelatin (Gel) and loading them in a biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) scaffold, for a synthetic-allologous hybrid scaffold. Effect of PRP addition in small doses was evaluated for osteogenic potential in vitro and in vivo. BCP (10%) mixed HA–Gel hydrogel with or without PRP, was loaded into a BCP sponge scaffold. We investigated the hydrogel-induced improvement in mechanical property and PRP-mediated enhancement in biocompatibility. In vitro studies for cytotoxicity, cell attachment, and proliferation were carried out using MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblast cells. In in vitro studies, the cell count, cell proliferation, and cell survival were higher in the scaffold with PRP loading than without PRP. However, in the in vivo studies using a rat model, the PRP scaffold was not superior to the scaffold without PRP. This discrepancy was investigated in terms of the interaction of PRP in the in vivo environment.
Colistin- and Polymyxin-Induced Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Pike Matthew , Saltiel Emmanuel
Published: September 2014

With the reintroduction of colistimethate and polymyxin B into clinical practice, a review of their individual and comparative nephrotoxicity attributes as reported in contemporary literature was undertaken. Given variability in definitions used for acute kidney injury, a particular focus was placed on studies utilizing the Risk-Injury-Failure-Loss-End Stage Kidney Disease (RIFLE) criteria of assessment to provide for standardized comparison. Primary risk factors examined included the influence of dosing and the receipt of concomitant nephrotoxins. The typical severity and time course of renal injury that develops were also analyzed. Nephrotoxicity rates with colistimethate appear to approach 50%, and could be of lower frequency and severity with polymyxin B based on limited literature. Acute kidney injury generally appears to be mild to moderate in magnitude and reversible in nature, though as many as 20% of patients experiencing it may require renal replacement therapy of some duration. The majority of studies showed some relationship with dosing- variably reported as being associated with daily dose or cumulative exposure. Traditional nephrotoxic agents did not appear to confer additional risk individually in the majority of investigations, though receipt of multiple concurrent nephrotoxins did yield a relationship in several. Further studies will be required to better characterize the renal adverse effect profile of these agents, particularly in the case of polymyxin B.
Understanding Depressive Symptoms Among Community-Dwelling Chinese Older Adults in the Greater Chicago Area
Authors: Dong XinQi , Chen Ruijia , Li Chengyue , Simon Melissa A.
Published: September 2014

Objective: This study aimed to examine the prevalence of depressive symptoms among U.S. Chinese older adults. Method: Data were from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago (PINE) study, a population-based survey of U.S. Chinese older adults aged 60 years and above. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to examine depressive symptoms. Results: Of the 3,159 community-dwelling Chinese older adults, 1,717 (54.4%) reported having any depressive symptoms in the last 2 weeks. Older age ( r = .09), being female ( r = .10), lower income ( r = .09), not being married ( r = .07), having fewer years in the United States ( r = .05), lower overall health status ( r = .32), poorer quality of life ( r = .14), and worsening health over the past year ( r = .24) were significantly and positively correlated with any depressive symptoms. Discussion: Depressive symptoms are common among U.S. Chinese older adults in the Greater Chicago area. Further longitudinal studies should be conducted to better understand risk factors and outcomes of depressive symptoms among U.S. Chinese older adults.
Prevalence and Correlates of Elder Mistreatment in a Community-Dwelling Population of U.S. Chinese Older Adults
Authors: Dong XinQi , Chen Ruijia , Fulmer Terry , Simon Melissa A.
Published: September 2014

Objective: This study aimed to examine the prevalence and correlates of elder mistreatment among U.S. Chinese older adults. Method: Data were drawn from the Population-Based Study of ChINese Elderly (PINE) study, a population-based epidemiological survey of 3,159 U.S. Chinese older adults in the Greater Chicago area. The study design was guided by a community-based participatory research approach. Results: This study found a prevalence of 15.0% for elder mistreatment among community-dwelling Chinese older adults. In addition, higher levels of education ( r = .16, p< .001), fewer children ( r = .1, p< .001), lower health status ( r = .11, p< .001), poorer quality of life ( r = .05, p< .01), and worsening health over the past year ( r = .08, p< .001) were positively correlated with any elder mistreatment. Discussion: Elder mistreatment is prevalent among U.S. Chinese older adults. The findings point to a pressing need for researchers, community service workers, health care providers, and policy makers to increase efforts on reducing elder mistreatment in U.S. Chinese communities.
The Expectation and Perceived Receipt of Filial Piety Among Chinese Older Adults in the Greater Chicago Area
Authors: Dong XinQi , Zhang Manrui , Simon Melissa A.
Published: September 2014

Objective: Filial piety is a key Chinese cultural value that determines children’s caregiving obligation to older adults. This study aims to evaluate the expectations and perceived receipt of filial piety from the perspectives of Chinese older adults. Method: Data were drawn from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago (PINE) study, a population-based study of U.S. Chinese older adults aged 60 and above in the Greater Chicago area. Filial care was examined in six domains, including care, respect, greeting, happiness, obedience, and financial support. Socio-demographics correlate with expectations and receipt of filial piety were also reported. Results: Participants reported high level of overall expectations and receipts of filial piety, and highest expectation and perceived receipt were placed on the domain of respect. Discussion: This study provides insights on the extent to which U.S. Chinese older adults expect and perceive receipt of filial care. Our findings have implications for the provision of culturally appropriate health care services.
A Psychometric Assessment of the Psychological and Social Well-Being Indicators in the PINE Study
Authors: Chang E-Shien , Beck Todd , Simon Melissa A. , Dong XinQi
Published: September 2014

Objective: This report aims to establish the reliability and validity of five psychological and social well-being indictors in their applications to a U.S. Chinese aging population. Method: The Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago (PINE) is a population-based epidemiological study of Chinese older adults in the Greater Chicago area. Internal consistency reliability was assessed by determining the coefficient alpha and inter-item correlation coefficients. Content validity was assessed by bilingual and bicultural study researchers and community leaders. Results: The reliability and validity analysis supported the use of the Chinese version of the psychological and social well-being indicators in the PINE study. The value of Cronbach’s alpha for fives scales ranged from .64 to .82, indicating reasonable internal consistency. Content validity was established through intensive review by a panel of experts. Discussion: The instruments discussed in this report are reliable and valid measures to assess key dimensions of psychological and social distress of Chinese older adults.
Demographic Characteristics of U.S. Chinese Older Adults in the Greater Chicago Area
Authors: Simon Melissa A. , Chang E-Shien , Rajan Kumar Bharat , Welch Mary Jane , Dong XinQi
Published: September 2014

Objective: We aimed to assess the representativeness of the demographic characteristics of the PINE study to the Chinese aging population in the Greater Chicago area. Method: The PINE study is a population-based study of Chinese older adults aged 60 and over in the Greater Chicago area. In preparation of the PINE study, we conducted a random block census study in Chicago. Demographic characteristics of the PINE study were compared with the data drawn from U.S. Census 2010 and random block census study using chi-square tests. Results: The PINE study is representative of the Chinese aging population in the Greater Chicago area. No significant difference was found in key attributes including age, sex, income, education, number of children, and country of origin. Discussion: Our report is critical in understanding the vast socio-demographic diversity of U.S. Chinese older adults. Rigorous studies are needed to explore the heterogeneity among the diverse aging populations.
Reliability optimization design for stochastic static deformation of computer numerical control lathe spindle
Authors: Li Changyou , Guo Song , Zhang Yimin , Shi Yanlin
Published: September 2014

The number and the mean price of lathes manufactured in China are, respectively, large and low. However, the reliability of these lathes is comparatively lower to lathes manufactured in some countries. To overcome this major drawback, the reliability optimization design for the failure due to the overlarge static deformation of the computer numerical control lathe spindle is presented here. First, the static deformation of the spindle front end is formulated. This deformation results from the pre-tightening force acting on the front cylindrical roller bearing and the cutting force applied to the spindle front end. In the next step, the corresponding reliability is modeled and estimated. An expression for sensitivity calculation is determined. Subsequently, the reliability optimization method is proposed and is illustrated using a numerical example. The results show that the reliability corresponding to the stochastic static deformation of the computer numerical control lathe spindle was improved, and the reliability robustness increased significantly using the proposed method.
Camber deformation estimation of bridge crane and energy-consumption analysis
Authors: Yifei Tong , Lijin Lu , Guomin Shen , Dongbo Li , Xiangdong Li
Published: September 2014

The crane is a mechanical device used to move materials in modern production. It plays a very important role in the national economy by greatly reducing labor intensity, improving production efficiency, and promoting social development as an indispensable auxiliary tool. The energy consumption of a crane is very large. There are several factors influencing energy loss, especially the camber of the girder, which is thought to compensate for the operation downwarping and, thus, decrease the energy consumption of trolleys with improved operation performance. Thus, analysis and calculation of the camber for crane girder is necessary in order to design a reasonable camber curve for the compensation of girder deformation by self-weight and loading. In this study, the deformation source is analyzed, and an estimation model of camber for the bridge crane is proposed. The camber is theoretically discussed and estimated with respect to self-weight, wheel pressure, and welding. As a result, the optimal corresponding camber curve that could compensate the deformations by self-weight, wheel pressure, and welding were obtained. Calculation of the energy consumption of the trolley is also presented. By using a 50-t, 31.5-m double girder crane as the research object, calculation of its camber and design of the reasonable camber curve for energy-saving were analyzed and demonstrated. These results may provide a design reference for girder camber curve and validation of the effectiveness of crane simulation modeling.
Disturbance observer control method in SGMSCMG
Authors: Peng Cong , Sun Jinji
Published: September 2014

To restrain disturbances produced by parameter variations and external disturbances in axial magnetic bearing in the application of single-gimbal magnetically suspended control moment gyro (SGMSCMG), a disturbance observer control method is proposed, which integrated [Formula: see text] controller and disturbance observer. This method considers parameter variations of the axial magnetic bearing and the effect of gimbals on axial magnetic bearing. Consequently, the state space equation is changed to include the disturbances. Then the robust controller is designed, which includes the disturbance observer design and robust [Formula: see text] controller design. The stability analysis is given for the proposed controller. Simulation and experiment results on the SGMSCMG verified the correctness of the proposed method.
Simulation of air jets for controlling stall in a centrifugal fan
Authors: Lei Zhang , Rui Wang , Wei Yuan , Songling Wang
Published: September 2014

The main goal of the present work is to analyze the three-dimensional unsteady flow field of a centrifugal fan by solving Navier–Stokes equations, coupled with the throttle condition. The results show that rotating stall occurs in the original fan when the flow rate is 4.30 m3/s, and the stall inception first appears at three impeller passages near the volute tongue and front disc. An active control method is proposed to inhibit the stall inception, which involves blowing air at the inlets of the three impeller passages. This blowing control method cannot inhibit the stall inception when the blowing speed is lower than 50 m/s. The stability margin of the centrifugal fan is extended when the blowing speed is increased from 50 to 110 m/s, while no further effect is obvious with a further increase in the blowing speed. At a blowing speed of 110 m/s, rotating stall occurs again when the fan flow reaches 3.46 m3/s. After the application of the nozzle blowing, the safety margin of the centrifugal fan is extended by 13%, and an obvious stability enhancement effect is achieved. From an engineering standpoint, this new active control method for rotating stall offers a valuable means to ensure the safe operation of a centrifugal fan.
Identification and localization of fovea on colour fundus images using blur scales
Authors: Ganesan Karthikeyan , Acharya Rajendra U , Chua Chua Kuang , Laude Augustinus
Published: September 2014

Identification of retinal landmarks is an important step in the extraction of anomalies in retinal fundus images. In the current study, we propose a technique to identify and localize the position of macula and hence the fovea avascular zone, in colour fundus images. The proposed method, based on varying blur scales in images, is independent of the location of other anatomical landmarks present in the fundus images. Experimental results have been provided using the open database MESSIDOR by validating our segmented regions using the dice coefficient, with ground truth segmentation provided by a human expert. Apart from testing the images on the entire MESSIDOR database, the proposed technique was also validated using 50 normal and 50 diabetic retinopathy chosen digital fundus images from the same database. A maximum overlap accuracy of 89.6%−93.8% and locational accuracy of 94.7%−98.9% was obtained for identification and localization of the fovea.