bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fibrin and Collagen Differentially but Synergistically Regulate Sprout Angiogenesis of Human Dermal Microvascular Endothelial Cells in 3-Dimensional Matrix
Authors: Feng Xiaodong , Tonnesen Marcia G. , Mousa Shaker A. , Clark Richard A. F.
Published: May 2013

Angiogenesis is a highly regulated event involving complex, dynamic interactions between microvascular endothelial cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Alteration of ECM composition and architecture is a hallmark feature of wound clot and tumor stroma. We previously reported that during angiogenesis, endothelial cell responses to growth factors are modulated by the compositional and mechanical properties of a surrounding three-dimensional (3D) extracellular matrix (ECM) that is dominated by either cross-linked fibrin or type I collagen. However, the role of 3D ECM in the regulation of angiogenesis associated with wound healing and tumor growth is not well defined. This study investigates the correlation of sprout angiogenesis and ECM microenvironment using in vivo and in vitro 3D angiogenesis models. It demonstrates that fibrin and type I collagen 3D matrices differentially but synergistically regulate sprout angiogenesis. Thus blocking both integrin alpha v beta 3 and integrin alpha 2 beta 1 might be a novel strategy to synergistically block sprout angiogenesis in solid tumors.
Classification in Networked Data with Heterophily
Authors: Wang Zhenwen , Yin Fengjing , Tan Wentang , Xiao Weidong
Published: May 2013

In the real world, a large amount of data can be described by networks using relations between data. The data described by networks can be called networked data. Classification is one of the main tasks in analyzing networked data. Most of the previous methods find the class of the unlabeled node using the classes of its neighbor nodes. However, in the networks with heterophily, most of connected nodes belong to different classes. It is hard to get the correct class using the classes of neighbor nodes, so the previous methods have a low level of performance in the networks with heterophily. In this paper, a probabilistic method is proposed to address this problem. Firstly, the class propagating distribution of the node is proposed to describe the probabilities that its neighbor nodes belong to each class. After that, the class propagating distributions of neighbor nodes are used to calculate the class of the unlabeled node. At last, a classification algorithm based on class propagating distribution is presented in the form of matrix operations. In empirical study, we apply the proposed algorithm to the real‐world datasets, compared with some other algorithms. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm performs better when the networks are of heterophily.
Predicting Sea Surface Temperatures in the North Indian Ocean with Nonlinear Autoregressive Neural Networks
Authors: Patil Kalpesh , Deo M. C. , Ghosh Subimal , Ravichandran M.
Published: May 2013

Prediction of monthly mean sea surface temperature (SST) values has many applications ranging from climate predictions to planning of coastal activities. Past studies have shown usefulness of neural networks (NNs) for this purpose and also pointed to a need to do more experimentation to improve accuracy and reliability of the results. The present work is directed along these lines. It shows usefulness of the nonlinear autoregressive type of neural network vis-à-vis the traditional feed forward back propagation type. Neural networks were developed to predict monthly SST values based on 61-year data at six different locations around India over 1 to 12 months in advance. The nonlinear autoregressive (NAR) neural network was found to yield satisfactory predictions over all time horizons and at all selected locations. The results of the present study were more attractive in terms of prediction accuracy than those of an earlier work in the same region. The annual neural networks generally performed better than the seasonal ones, probably due to their relatively high fitting flexibility.
Rich Dynamics of an Epidemic Model with Saturation Recovery
Authors: Wan Hui , Cui Jing-an
Published: May 2013

A SIR epidemic model is proposed to understand the impact of limited medical resource on infectious disease transmission. The basic reproduction number is identified. Existence and stability of equilibria are obtained under different conditions. Bifurcations, including backward bifurcation and Hopf bifurcation, are analyzed. Our results suggest that the model considering the impact of limited medical resource may exhibit vital dynamics, such as bistability and periodicity when the basic reproduction numberℝ0is less than unity, which implies that the basic reproductive number itself is not enough to describe whether the disease will prevail or not and a subthreshold number is needed. It is also shown that a sufficient number of sickbeds and other medical resources are very important for disease control and eradication. Considering the costs, we provide a method to estimate a suitable treatment capacity for a disease in a region.
Network-BasedH∞Filter Design for Linear System with Random Delays
Authors: Yan Ruixia , Wu Zhong , Liu Jinliang
Published: May 2013

This paper investigates the filtering problem for a class of network-based systems with random network-induced delays. The considered random delay between the sensor and the filter is assumed to be satisfying a certain stochastic characteristic. Considering the probability of the delay taking value in different intervals, a stochastic variable satisfying Bernoulli random binary distribution is introduced and a new system model is established by employing the information of the probability distribution. By using a properly constructed Lyapunov function, sufficient conditions for the existence of theH∞filters are presented in terms of linear matrix inequalities, which are dependent on the occurrence probability of both the random communication delays. The filter parameter is then characterized by the solution to a set of LMIs. A simulation example is employed to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Synthetic Methods, Chemistry, and the Anticonvulsant Activity of Thiadiazoles
Authors: Sharma Bhawna , Verma Amita , Prajapati Sunil , Sharma Upendra Kumar
Published: May 2013

The chemistry of heterocyclic compounds has been an interesting field of study for a long time. Heterocyclic nucleus 1,3,4-thiadiazole constitutes an important class of compounds for new drug development. The synthesis of novel thiadiazole derivatives and investigation of their chemical and biological behavior have gained more importance in recent decades. The search for antiepileptic compounds with more selective activity and lower toxicity continues to be an active area of intensive investigation in medicinal chemistry. During the recent years, there has been intense investigation of different classes of thiadiazole compounds, many of which possess extensive pharmacological activities, namely, antimicrobial activity, anticonvulsant, antifungal antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antituberculosis activities, and so forth. The resistance towards available drugs is rapidly becoming a major worldwide problem. The need to design new compounds to deal with this resistance has become one of the most important areas of research today. Thiadiazole is a versatile moiety that exhibits a wide variety of biological activities. Thiadiazole moiety acts as “hydrogen binding domain” and “two-electron donor system.” It also acts as a constrained pharmacophore. On the basis of the reported literature, we study here thiadiazole compounds and their synthetic methods chemistry and anticonvulsant activity.
Extended Jacobi Functions via Riemann-Liouville Fractional Derivative
Authors: Çekim Bayram , Erkuş-Duman Esra
Published: May 2013

By means of the Riemann-Liouville fractional calculus, extended Jacobi functions are defined and some of their properties are obtained. Then, we compare some properties of the extended Jacobi functions extended Jacobi polynomials. Also, we derive fractional differential equation of generalized extended Jacobi functions.
A Characterization for Compact Sets in the Space of Fuzzy Star-Shaped Numbers withLpMetric
Authors: Zhao Zhitao , Wu Congxin
Published: May 2013

By means of some auxiliary lemmas, we obtain a characterization of compact subsets in the space of all fuzzy star-shaped numbers withLpmetric for1≤p<∞. The result further completes and develops the previous characterization of compact subsets given by Wu and Zhao in 2008.
Control for Networked Control Systems with Time Delays and Packet Dropouts
Authors: Wang Yilin , Karimi Hamid Reza , Xiang Zhengrong
Published: May 2013

This paper is concerned with the control issue for a class of networked control systems (NCSs) with packet dropouts and time-varying delays. Firstly, the addressed NCS is modeled as a Markovian discrete-time switched system with two subsystems; by using the average dwell time method, a sufficient condition is obtained for the mean square exponential stability of the closed-loop NCS with a desired disturbance attenuation level. Then, the desired controller is obtained by solving a set of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Women’s Attitudes towards the Option to Choose between Karyotyping and Rapid Targeted Testing during Pregnancy
Authors: Kooper Angelique J. A. , Smeets Dominique F. C. M. , Feenstra Ilse , Wijnberger Lia D. E. , Rijnders Robbert J. P. , Quartero Rik W. P. , Boekkooi Peter F. , van Vugt John M. G. , Smits Arie P. T.
Published: May 2013

Objectives. Pregnant women, referred because of an increased risk of fetal Down syndrome, who underwent an invasive prenatal procedure were offered a choice between karyotyping and rapid targeted testing. This study aims to assess women’s attitudes and experiences towards what option to choose.Methods. A retrospective multicentre survey (2008–2010) was conducted among 1370 women. General questions were asked about decision making issues, followed by personal questions about their experiences in choice making, test preference, influence of others, and possible regrets.Results. In total, 90.1% of the respondents (N=825) indicated that pregnant women are able to choose, although 33.1% stated that the choice can best be made by a professional. 18.4% indicated that making a choice places a burden on women. In 96.4%, respondents preferred to have the option to choose again in case of a next pregnancy, whereas 2.7% preferred the choice to be made by a professional. Regret was indicated by 1.2%. Decision making was influenced by others in 64.9%. A slightly higher preference for karyotyping was indicated by 52.7% of the respondents.Conclusions. Positive attitudes and experiences were expressed towards the option to choose. Respondents took decisions freely, although sometimes influenced by a partner or a professional, to follow their individual perspectives.
Analysis of Dry Sliding Wear Behaviour of Aluminium-Fly Ash Composites: The Taguchi Approach
Authors: Palanisamy Shanmughasundaram , Ramanathan Subramanian , Rangaraj Ravikumar
Published: May 2013

Dry sliding wear test was conducted on Al-fly ash composites employing pin-on-disc wear testing rig. The influence of parameters such as weight percentage of fly ash, load, and sliding speed on the wear rate of specimens was investigated. Specimens were fabricated by adapting a modified two-step stir casting method. The Taguchi and analysis of variance (ANOVA) techniques were employed to investigate the influence of parameters on the wear rate of composite. Multiple linear regression models were developed to predict the wear rate of the composites. It was found that the weight percentage of fly ash was the most dominant factor influencing the wear rate followed by the applied load and sliding speed. The morphology of worn surfaces of the wear pins was analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) to analyze the wear behaviour. EDS analysis was carried out to investigate the mechanical mixed layer (MML), which forms on the worn surface of the wear pins.
Site-Specific Antioxidative Therapy for Prevention of Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Otani Hajime
Published: May 2013

Oxidative stress has been implicated in pathophysiology of aging and age-associated disease. Antioxidative medicine has become a practice for prevention of atherosclerosis. However, limited success in preventing cardiovascular disease (CVD) in individuals with atherosclerosis using general antioxidants has prompted us to develop a novel antioxidative strategy to prevent atherosclerosis. Reducing visceral adipose tissue by calorie restriction (CR) and regular endurance exercise represents a causative therapy for ameliorating oxidative stress. Some of the recently emerging drugs used for the treatment of CVD may be assigned as site-specific antioxidants. CR and exercise mimetic agents are the choice for individuals who are difficult to continue CR and exercise. Better understanding of molecular and cellular biology of redox signaling will pave the way for more effective antioxidative medicine for prevention of CVD and prolongation of healthy life span.
A Case of Spontaneous Ruptured Solid Pseudopapillary Tumor of Pancreas Resected by Laparoscopic Surgery
Authors: Takamatsu Susumu , Nagano Hiroto , Ohtsukasa Shunroh , Kawachi Yasuyuki , Maruyama Hiroshi
Published: May 2013

Solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) is an uncommon neoplasm of the pancreas. A rare case of spontaneous rupture of SPT is reported. A 13-year-old female felt acute abdominal pain without blunt abdominal trauma. Enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed a tumor in the pancreas tail with fluid collection around it. The tumor was diagnosed as SPT with hemoperitoneum associated with spontaneous rupture. The bleeding was stopped conservatively and she was referred for surgery at three months after the rupture. At that time, CT revealed a tumor 4 cm in diameter, which protruded from pancreas tail without distant metastases. Since peritoneal dissemination was not seen on intraoperative exploration, laparoscopic enucleation was performed. Pathologically, the tumor was diagnosed as SPT with rupture of the capsule of tumor, and complete resection was confirmed. The patient has been followed up for two years, and she is alive without recurrence.
Critical Role of STAT3 in IL-6–Mediated Drug Resistance in Human Neuroblastoma
Authors: Ara Tasnim , Nakata Rie , Sheard Michael A. , Shimada Hiroyuki , Buettner Ralf , Groshen Susan G. , Ji Lingyun , Yu Hua , Jove Richard , Seeger Robert C. , DeClerck Yves A.
Published: May 2013

Drug resistance is a major cause of treatment failure in cancer. Here, we have evaluated the role of STAT3 in environment-mediated drug resistance (EMDR) in human neuroblastoma. We determined that STAT3 was not constitutively active in most neuroblastoma cell lines but was rapidly activated upon treatment with interleukin (IL)-6 alone and in combination with the soluble IL-6 receptor (sIL-6R). Treatment of neuroblastoma cells with IL-6 protected them from drug-induced apoptosis in a STAT3-dependent manner because the protective effect of IL-6 was abrogated in the presence of a STAT3 inhibitor and upon STAT3 knockdown. STAT3 was necessary for the upregulation of several survival factors such as survivin (BIRC5) and Bcl-xL (BCL2L1) when cells were exposed to IL-6. Importantly, IL-6–mediated STAT3 activation was enhanced by sIL-6R produced by human monocytes, pointing to an important function of monocytes in promoting IL-6–mediated EMDR. Our data also point to the presence of reciprocal activation of STAT3 between tumor cells and bone marrow stromal cells including not only monocytes but also regulatory T cells (Treg) and nonmyeloid stromal cells. Thus, the data identify an IL-6/sIL-6R/STAT3 interactive pathway between neuroblastoma cells and their microenvironment that contributes to drug resistance. Cancer Res; 73(13); 3852–64. ©2013 AACR.
Cancer Stem–like Cell Marker CD44 Promotes Bone Metastases by Enhancing Tumorigenicity, Cell Motility, and Hyaluronan Production
Authors: Hiraga Toru , Ito Susumu , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: May 2013

CD44, an adhesion molecule that binds to the extracellular matrix, primarily to hyaluronan (HA), has been implicated in cancer cell migration, invasion, and metastasis. CD44 has also recently been recognized as a marker for stem cells of several types of cancer. However, the roles of CD44 in the development of bone metastasis are unclear. Here, we addressed this issue by using bone metastatic cancer cell lines, in which CD44 was stably knocked down. Tumor sphere formation and cell migration and invasion were significantly inhibited by CD44 knockdown. Furthermore, the downregulation of CD44 markedly suppressed tumorigenicity and bone metastases in nude mice. Of note, the number of osteoclasts decreased in the bone metastases. Microarray analysis revealed that the expression of HA synthase 2 was downregulated in CD44-knockdown cells. The localization of HA in the bone metastatic tumors was also markedly reduced. We then examined the roles of CD44–HA interaction in bone metastasis using 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU), an inhibitor of HA synthesis. 4-MU decreased tumor sphere and osteoclast-like cell formation in vitro. Moreover, 4-MU inhibited bone metastases in vivo with reduced number of osteoclasts. These results collectively suggest that CD44 expression in cancer cells promotes bone metastases by enhancing tumorigenicity, cell migration and invasion, and HA production. Our results also suggest the possible involvement of CD44-expressing cancer stem cells in the development of bone metastases through interaction with HA. CD44–HA interaction could be a potential target for therapeutic intervention for bone metastases. Cancer Res; 73(13); 4112–22. ©2013 AACR.
Meat-Related Mutagens and Pancreatic Cancer: Null Results from a Clinic-Based Case–Control Study
Authors: Jansen Rick J. , Robinson Dennis P. , Frank Ryan D. , Stolzenberg-Solomon Rachael Z. , Bamlet William R. , Oberg Ann L. , Rabe Kari G. , Olson Janet E. , Petersen Gloria M. , Sinha Rashmi , Anderson Kristin E.
Published: May 2013

Background: Pancreatic cancer is a devastating disease for which the role of dietary factors remains inconclusive. The study objective was to evaluate risk of pancreatic cancer associated with meat preparation methods and meat-related mutagen consumption using a clinic-based case–control design.

Methods: There were 384 cases and 983 controls; subjects provided demographic information and completed a 144-item food frequency questionnaire, which was used to estimate meat mutagen intake using the National Cancer Institute's CHARRED database (Bethesda, MD). Logistic regression was used to calculate ORs and 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusted for factors including age, sex, cigarette smoking, body mass index, and diabetes mellitus.

Results: Overall, the findings were null with respect to meat mutagen intake and pancreatic cancer.

Conclusions: The results do not support an association between well-done meat or meat-related mutagen intake and pancreatic cancer and contrast with generally increased risks reported in previous studies.

Impact: These data contribute to evidence about pancreatic cancer and potentially carcinogenic compounds in meat. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(7); 1336–9. ©2013 AACR.
Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase 1 Is a Novel Molecular Therapeutic Target for Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: von Roemeling Christina A. , Marlow Laura A. , Wei Johnny J. , Cooper Simon J. , Caulfield Thomas R. , Wu Kevin , Tan Winston W. , Tun Han W. , Copland John A.
Published: May 2013

Purpose: We set out to identify Stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) as a novel molecular target in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and examine its role in tumor cell growth and viability in vitro and in vivo independently as well as in combination with current U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved regimens.

Experimental Design: Patient normal and ccRCC tissue samples and cell lines were examined for SCD1 expression. Genetic knockdown models and targeted inhibition of SCD1 through use of a small molecule inhibitor, A939572, were analyzed for growth, apoptosis, and alterations in gene expression using gene array analysis. Therapeutic models of synergy were evaluated utilizing pharmacologic inhibition of SCD1 with the tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) sunitinib and pazopanib, and the mTOR inhibitor temsirolimus.

Results: Our studies identify increased SCD1 expression in all stages of ccRCC. Both genetic knockdown and pharmacologic inhibition of SCD1 decreased tumor cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. Upon gene array, quantitative real-time PCR, and protein analysis of A939572-treated or SCD1 lentiviral knockdown samples, induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress response signaling was observed, providing mechanistic insight for SCD1 activity in ccRCC. Furthermore, combinatorial application of A939572 with temsirolimus synergistically inhibited tumor growth in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions: Increased SCD1 expression supports ccRCC viability and therefore we propose it as a novel molecular target for therapy either independently or in combination with an mTOR inhibitor for patients whose disease cannot be remedied with surgical intervention, such as in cases of advanced or metastatic disease. Clin Cancer Res; 19(9); 2368–80. ©2013 AACR.
Conjunctival Melanomas Harbor BRAF and NRAS Mutations and Copy Number Changes Similar to Cutaneous and Mucosal Melanomas
Authors: Griewank Klaus G. , Westekemper Henrike , Murali Rajmohan , Mach Monika , Schilling Bastian , Wiesner Thomas , Schimming Tobias , Livingstone Elisabeth , Sucker Antje , Grabellus Florian , Metz Claudia , Süsskind Daniela , Hillen Uwe , Speicher Michael R. , Woodman Scott E. , Steuhl Klaus-Peter , Schadendorf Dirk
Published: May 2013

Purpose: Conjunctival melanoma is a rare but potentially deadly tumor of the eye. Despite effective local therapies, recurrence and metastasis remain frequent. Once the tumor has metastasized, treatment options are limited and the prognosis is poor. To date, little is known of the genetic alterations in conjunctival melanomas.

Experimental Design: We conducted genetic analysis of 78 conjunctival melanomas, to our knowledge the largest cohort reported to date. An oncogene hotspot array was run on 38 samples, screening for a panel of known cancer-relevant mutations. Thirty tumors were analyzed for genome-wide copy number alterations (CNA) using array-based comparative genomic hybridization. Sanger sequencing of selected target mutations was conducted in all samples.

Results: BRAF mutations were identified in 23 of 78 (29%) tumors. NRAS mutations, previously not recognized as relevant in conjunctival melanoma, were detected in 14 of 78 (18%) tumors. We found CNAs affecting various chromosomes distributed across the genome in a pattern reminiscent of cutaneous and mucosal melanoma but differing markedly from uveal melanoma.

Conclusions: The presence of NRAS or BRAF mutations in a mutually exclusive pattern in roughly half (47%) of conjunctival melanomas and the pattern of CNAs argue for conjunctival melanoma being closely related to cutaneous and mucosal melanoma but entirely distinct from uveal melanoma. Patients with metastatic conjunctival melanoma should be considered for therapeutic modalities available for metastatic cutaneous and mucosal melanoma including clinical trials of novel agents. Clin Cancer Res; 19(12); 3143–52. ©2013 AACR.
Walking Impairment Questionnaire Improves Mortality Risk Prediction Models in a High-Risk Cohort Independent of Peripheral Arterial Disease Status
Authors: Nead Kevin T. , Zhou Margaret , Caceres Roxanne Diaz , Olin Jeffrey W. , Cooke John P. , Leeper Nicholas J.
Published: May 2013

Background—

The Walking Impairment Questionnaire (WIQ) is a subjective measure of patient-reported walking performance developed for peripheral arterial disease. The purpose of this study is to examine whether this simple tool can improve the predictive capacity of established risk models and whether the WIQ can be used in patients without peripheral arterial disease.

Methods and Results—

At baseline we assessed the walking distance, stair-climbing, and walking speed WIQ category scores among individuals who were undergoing coronary angiography. During a median follow-up of 5.0 years, there were 172 mortalities among 1417 study participants. Adjusted Cox proportional hazards models showed that all 3 WIQ categories independently predicted future all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, including among individuals without peripheral arterial disease (
P
<0.001). Compared with the cardiovascular risk factors model, we observed significantly increased risk discrimination with a C-index of 0.741 (change in C-index, 0.040; 95% confidence interval, 0.011–0.068) and 0.832 (change in C-index, 0.080; 95% confidence interval, 0.034–0.126) for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, respectively. Examination of risk reclassification using the net reclassification improvement index showed a 48.4% (
P
<0.001) improvement for all-cause mortality and a 77.4% (
P
<0.001) improvement for cardiovascular mortality compared with the cardiovascular risk factors model.

Conclusions—

All 3 WIQ categories independently predicted future all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Importantly, we found that this subjective measure of walking ability could be extended to patients without peripheral arterial disease. The addition of the WIQ scores to established cardiovascular risk models significantly improved risk discrimination and reclassification, suggesting broad clinical use for this simple, inexpensive test.
Binding and the Structure of NP in Serbo-Croatian
Authors: Despić Miloje
Published: May 2013

On the basis of binding facts, I argue that Serbo-Croatian (SC) does not project DP and that DP is not a universal property of language. I show that a number of binding contrasts between English and SC follow straightforwardly from independently motivated differences in their nominal structure, most notably from the assumption that DP is present only in English. I also discuss in detail the potential significance of this puzzling set of facts for the binding theory in general. Specifically, I propose that SC employs Condition C as defined in Lasnik 1989 and, in addition to the core binding conditions, a competitive mechanism adopted from Safir 2004 , which regulates the distribution of reflexives, pronouns, and R-expressions. I also argue that the binding domains for pronouns and reflexives in SC need to be formulated differently.
New taxa and distributional notes on Abbottella and related taxa (Gastropoda: Littorinoidea: Annulariidae)
Authors: WATTERS G. THOMAS
Published: May 2013

Seven new species of Abbottella and related taxa are described from Hispaniola: Abbottella calliotropis n. sp., Abbottella diadema n. sp., Abbottella dichroa n. sp., Abbottella nitens n. sp., Abbottella paradoxa n. sp., Abbottella tenebrosa n. sp., and Leiabbottella thompsoni n. sp. Distributional and habitat notes are given for additional taxa.
First record of Latris lineata (Forster, 1801) in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean
Authors: WAESSLE JUAN A. , MILESSI ANDRÉS C.
Published: May 2013

Striped trumpeter, Latris lineata (Forster 1801), is an important deep-water by-catch and recreational fisheries species in New Zealand and Australia (Tracey & Lyle 2005; Beentjes et al. 2010). The species can grow to a relatively large size (1200 mm total length, 25 kg body weight) and live more than 40 years old (Tracey & Lyle 2005; Beentjes et al. 2010). It is regarded as a southern circum-global species widely distributed in the temperate waters of Australia, New Zealand, sub-Antarctic Auckland Island, the Gough and Tristan Da Cunha Island groups, the southern Atlantic Ocean, the Amsterdam and St. Paul Island groups in the southern Indian Ocean, and possibly across the South Pacific to the Juan Fernández Islands and Chile (Nelson 1994; Beentjes et al. 2010; Froese & Pauly 2012) and more recently the Foundation seamount in the southern Pacific Ocean (Roberts 2003). From these accounts their distribution is limited to a latitudinal belt spanning from 35º S to 51º S (Roberts 2003; Tracey et al. 2007). However, the striped trumpeter has never been reported from the southwest Atlantic.
Description of three females of the genus Acanthagrion (Odonata: Coenagrionidae) with a key to the females of Argentina
Authors: LOZANO FEDERICO
Published: May 2013

The neotropical genus Acanthagrion Selys (Odonata: Coenagrionidae) is composed of 44 species, of which the females of 31 species are currently known. In this contribution the females of A. aepiolum Tennessen and A. minutum Leonard are described and that of A. ascendens Calvert is redescribed. Distribution maps and new records are provided for all three species. Finally, a key to females of the genus Acanthagrion from Argentina is provided.
Geoparnus loebli, a new species of terrestrial dryopid from Peninsular Malaysia (Coleoptera: Dryopidae)
Authors: KODADA JÁN , KADUBEC MICHAL , ČIAMPOR FEDOR JR
Published: May 2013

Three species have been recognized in the genus Geoparnus Besuchet, 1978, all collected by sifting ground debris from tropical rainforests of Malaysia. The new species Geoparnus loebli sp. nov. is described; morphological similarities to known species G. setifer Besuchet, 1978 and G. rhinoceros Kodada, Jäch, Čiampor Jr & Čiamporová-Zaťovičová, 2007 are discussed. Habitus of adult, male and female genitalia as well as other diagnostic characters are illustrated.
A new species of Lasianobia Hampson, 1905 (Lepidoptera, Noctuinae) from China
Authors: SALDAITIS AIDAS , FLORIANI ALESSANDRO , IVINSKIS POVILAS , BABICS JÁNOS
Published: May 2013

A new species, Lasianobia pensottii, from southwest China is described. The new species clearly differs in appearance and genitalia from its closest known relative L. fickleri Gyulai, Ronkay & Saldaitis, 2011 and from the sympatric L. superba (Alphéraky, 1892).
The genus Neoanthrenus Armstrong, 1941 (Coleoptera: Dermestidae: Anthrenini): A new synonym of Anthrenus Geoffroy, 1762
Authors: KADEJ MARCIN , HÁVA JIŘÍ
Published: May 2013

A new synonym is proposed for Anthrenus Geoffroy, 1762 (= Neoanthrenus Armstrong, 1941 syn. n.) and the following species are transferred to Anthrenus (Nathrenus): Anthrenus (Nathrenus) armstrongielus replacement name for Neoanthrenus armstrongi Kalík, 1957; Anthrenus (Nathrenus) consobrinus (Háva), 2005 new combination; Anthrenus (Nathrenus) frater Arrow, 1915 return to former combination; Anthrenus (Nathrenus) king (Háva), 2002 new combination; Anthrenus (Nathrenus) macqueeni (Armstrong), 1949 new combination; Anthrenus (Nathrenus) niveosparsus (Armstrong), 1941 new combination; Anthrenus (Nathrenus) ocellifer Blackburn, 1891 return to former combination; Anthrenus (Nathrenus) parallelus (Armstrong), 1941 new combination; and Anthrenus (Nathrenus) svatopluki replacement name for Neoanthrenus bilyi Háva, 2003b.
Looking up to regulations, out at peers or down at the bottom line: How institutional logics affect the prevalence of age-related HR practices
Authors: Ollier-Malaterre Ariane , McNamara Tay , Matz-Costa Christina , Pitt-Catsouphes Marcie , Valcour Monique
Published: May 2013

Drawing on new institutionalism theory, this study examines the influence of institutional logics, the belief systems that direct decision-makers’ attention to particular sets of issues, on human resource (HR) adaptation to demographic changes. We argue that the prevalence of age-neutral HR management and of age-related HR practices such as age assessment and older worker-targeted practices, are shaped by the strength of the strategic (business case), benchmarking (comparing one’s set of policies with peers’) and compliance (laws and regulations) logics. In a sample of 420 US organizations, a strong strategic logic was associated only with greater prevalence of age-neutral HR management. A strong benchmarking logic was associated with greater prevalence of age-neutral HR management, of age assessment practices, and of older worker-targeted practices. A strong compliance logic was associated with greater prevalence of age-assessment and older worker-targeted practices. This article contributes to research on ageing and extends work on institutional logics by (1) focusing on organizations’ differential enactment of institutional logics, reflecting the contextual embeddedness of HR practices, and (2) showing that the prevalence of age-neutral HR management and of age-related HR practices are associated with competitive as well as institutional isomorphism.
Effect of air plasma treatment on the mechanical properties of polyphenylene sulfide/glass fiber cloth composites
Authors: Zhang Shouyu , Huang Guangshun , Wang Xiaojun , Huang Yajiang , Yang Jie , Li Guangxian
Published: May 2013

In this research study, air plasma-treated polyphenylene sulfide film was used to prepare polyphenylene sulfide/glass fiber cloth composites for improving interfacial adhesion and mechanical properties. The effect of air plasma treatment on the properties of polyphenylene sulfide films was investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and water contact angle analysis. According to the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis, it was found that plasma treatment led to the emergence of oxygen-containing polar groups on the film surface. The intensity of sulfide oxides (S = O and O = S = O) on the surface of polyphenylene sulfide films increased to 79.03% after it was modified by air plasma. Water droplet contact angle analysis indicated that plasma treatment significantly increased the hydrophilicity of the polyphenylene sulfide film. The contact angle was 38 degrees for plasma-treated polyphenylene sulfide film, compared to 78.5 degrees for untreated polyphenylene sulfide film. Tensile strength and notched impact strength of plasma-treated polyphenylene sulfide/glass fiber cloth (50/50) composite increased by 11% (from 248.49 MPa to 275.70 MPa) and 18% (from 52.26 KJ/m2 to 61.43 KJ/m2), respectively, compared with the raw specimen, which was consistent with the morphology analysis result. Meanwhile, the mechanical properties of the composites were improved with the increased discharge power density and treatment time.
Research and design guidelines for the construction of fiber-reinforced polymer reinforced concrete structures under fire exposure: A brief review
Authors: Faruqi MA , Escobedo G , Sun D , Sai J
Published: May 2013

This article presents the state-of-the-art literature review for the behavior of fiber-reinforced polymer and performance of fiber-reinforced polymer reinforced concrete structures exposed to high temperatures. The article is organized into six parts. They are thermo-mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced polymer composites, bond characteristics of fiber-reinforced polymers at high temperatures, fire reaction properties of fiber-reinforced polymer composites, fire protection methods, performance of fiber-reinforced polymer reinforced concrete structures under fire conditions, and design codes. The design codes presented herein are that of American Concrete Institute and the Canada Standards Association. Sections pertaining to fiber-reinforced polymer fire design in these codes are discussed, including the future developments for enhancing the performance of fiber-reinforced polymer reinforced concrete structures under elevated temperatures.
Nanoscale analysis of tensile properties and fracture of nanoreinforced epoxy polymer using micromechanics
Authors: Wang Zhenqing , Liu Fang , Liang Wenyan , Zhou Limin
Published: May 2013

Tensile properties of nanocomposites (silica/epoxy) with some aggregations of nanosilica are studied by nanoscale simulation, particularly with regard to the effective modulus and tensile strength. Three analytical models are used to obtain the effective elastic modulus of nanoparticle-reinforced composites (silica/epoxy). Then a multi-scale finite element method is proposed to study the interaction of particles and matrix for silica/rubber/epoxy systems at the nanoscale near a crack tip. A multi-scale finite element model with effective homogeneous material properties is used to study the fracture of a compact tension sample. The simulation results for effective elastic modulus and tensile strength of SiO2 particle-reinforced epoxy composites, and fracture toughness at the nanoscale for SiO2/rubber/epoxy with various volume fractions, show good agreement with previously published experimental data. It is demonstrated that the proposed parametric model can be used to efficiently study the toughness mechanisms at the nanoscale.
Serum amyloid A as a prognostic marker in cats with various diseases
Authors: Tamamoto Takashi , Ohno Koichi , Takahashi Masashi , Nakashima Ko , Fujino Yasuhito , Tsujimoto Hajime
Published: May 2013

Serum amyloid A (SAA) is reported not only as a marker for the presence of inflammation but also as a prognostic indicator in human beings. In cats, however, there is no report on the association between SAA concentration and prognosis. The objective of the current study was to evaluate SAA concentration as a prognostic marker in diseased cats. A total of 175 cats with neoplastic diseases, inflammatory diseases, and other diseases were retrospectively recruited, and the medical records of these cats, including follow-up data on mortality, were reviewed. Cats were divided into 2 groups according to SAA concentration, and differences in survival between each group were assessed. Median survival time of cats in the elevated SAA (>0.82 mg/l) group was significantly shorter than that in the nonelevated SAA (≤0.82 mg/l) group ( P < 0.001). Furthermore, by multivariate analysis, SAA concentration was shown as a significant and independent prognostic marker in cats with various diseases ( P = 0.015). Serum amyloid A concentration in diseased cats is a useful predictive indicator of prognosis regardless of diagnosis.
Characterization of blood lipoproteins and validation of cholesterol and triacylglycerol assays for free-ranging polar bears (Ursus maritimus)
Authors: Whiteman John P. , Frank Nicholas , Greller Katie A. , Harlow Henry J. , Ben-David Merav
Published: May 2013

Blood triacylglycerol (TG) and lipoproteins are important variables for evaluating nutritional status of wildlife, but measurements are often expensive and difficult. Performance of a small, portable blood analyzer intended for human medical diagnostics was evaluated in measuring these variables in plasma and serum from free-ranging polar bears ( Ursus maritimus), which are experiencing nutritional stress related to sea ice loss. The analyzer accurately tracked changes in concentration of total cholesterol (Ctotal), cholesterol associated with high-density lipoprotein (CHDL), and TG during a validation protocol of diluting samples and spiking them with exogenous cholesterol and glycerol. Values of Ctotal and TG agreed well with values obtained by other methods (ultracentrifugation followed by colorimetric assays); agreement was variable for values of cholesterol associated with specific lipoproteins. Similar to a study of captive polar bears, ultracentrifugation methods revealed greater TG in very low-density lipoproteins than in low-density lipoprotein, which is unusual and merits additional study.
Goal Instructions, Response Format, and Idea Generation in Groups
Authors: Goldenberg Olga , Larson James R. , Wiley Jennifer
Published: May 2013

This study examined the separate and joint impact of two standard, but seemingly conflicting brainstorming rules on idea generation in interacting and nominal groups: the free-wheeeling rule, which calls for the production of dissimilar ideas, and the build-on rule, which encourages idea combination and improvement. We also tested whether the superior performance of interacting groups found in several previous studies using a brainwriting technique may have been due to the different response formats employed by groups and individuals. Interacting groups and individuals generated ideas for improving their university under one of three sets of instructions. In one condition, participants were given the build-on rule, but not the free-wheeling rule, and in another condition, the reverse was true. In the third condition, both rules were provided. When the two rules were presented separately, interacting and nominal groups responded similarly, generating ideas from more semantic categories in response to the free-wheeling rule, and generating more practical ideas in response to the build-on rule. But when those rules were presented simultaneously, interacting groups generated ideas from fewer semantic categories than did nominal groups. In addition, interacting groups produced more ideas overall than nominal groups, but only when the two used different response formats.
Predicting Dissemination of News Content in Social Media
Authors: Weeks Brian E. , Holbert R. Lance
Published: May 2013

Social media are an emerging news source, but questions remain regarding how citizens engage news content in this environment. This study focuses on social media news reception and friending a journalist/news organization as predictors of social media news dissemination. Secondary analysis of 2010 Pew data ( N = 1,264) reveals reception and friending to be positive predictors of dissemination, and a reception-by-friending interaction is also evident. Partisanship moderates these relationships such that reception is a stronger predictor of dissemination among partisans, while the friending-dissemination link is evident for nonpartisans only. These results provide novel insights into citizens’ social media news experiences.
Effects of prenatal stress on pregnancy and human development: mechanisms and pathways
Authors: Coussons-Read Mary E
Published: May 2013

A growing body of research shows that prenatal stress can have significant effects on pregnancy, maternal health and human development across the lifespan. These effects may occur directly through the influence of prenatal stress-related physiological changes on the developing fetus, or indirectly through the effects of prenatal stress on maternal health and pregnancy outcome which, in turn, affect infant health and development. Animal and human studies suggest that activation of the maternal stress response and resulting changes in endocrine and inflammatory activity play a role in the aetiology of these effects. Ongoing research is focusing on clarifying these mechanisms, understanding the role of racial and cultural factors in these effects, and examining the epigenetic and transgenerational influences of prenatal stress.
Possible mechanisms for the skeletal effects of antipsychotics in children and adolescents
Authors: Calarge Chadi A. , Ivins Stephanie D. , Motyl Katherine J. , Shibli-Rahhal Amal A. , Bliziotes Michael M. , Schlechte Janet A.
Published: May 2013

The increasing use of antipsychotics (APs) to treat pediatric psychiatric conditions has led to concerns over the long-term tolerability of these drugs. While the risk of cardiometabolic abnormalities has received most of the attention, preclinical and clinical studies provide preliminary evidence that APs can adversely impact bone metabolism. This would be most concerning in children and adolescents as suboptimal bone accrual during development may lead to increased fracture risk later in life. However, the potential mechanisms of action through which APs may impact bone turnover and, consequently, bone mineral content are not clear. Emerging data suggest that the skeletal effects of APs are complex, with APs directly and indirectly impacting bone cells through modulation of multiple signaling pathways, including those involving dopamine D2, serotonin, adrenergic, and prolactin receptors, as well as by affecting gonadotropins. Determining the action of APs on skeletal development is further complicated by polypharmacy. In children and adolescents, APs are frequently coprescribed with psychostimulants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which have also been linked to changes in bone metabolism. This review discusses the mechanisms by which APs may influence bone metabolism. Also covered are preclinical and pediatric findings concerning the impact of APs on bone turnover. However, the dearth of clinical information despite the potential public health significance of this issue underscores the need for further studies. The review ends with a call for clinicians to be vigilant about promoting optimal overall health in chronically ill youth with psychopathology, particularly when pharmacotherapy is unavoidable.
A metadata-aware application for remote scoring and exchange of tissue microarray images
Authors: Morris Lorna , Tsui Andrew , Crichton Charles , Harris Steve , Maccallum Peter H , Howat William J , Davies Jim , Brenton James D , Caldas Carlos
Published: May 2013

Background

The use of tissue microarrays (TMA) and advances in digital scanning microscopy has enabled the collection of thousands of tissue images. There is a need for software tools to annotate, query and share this data amongst researchers in different physical locations.

Results

We have developed an open source web-based application for remote scoring of TMA images, which exploits the value of Microsoft Silverlight Deep Zoom to provide a intuitive interface for zooming and panning around digital images. We use and extend existing XML-based standards to ensure that the data collected can be archived and that our system is interoperable with other standards-compliant systems.

Conclusion

The application has been used for multi-centre scoring of TMA slides composed of tissues from several Phase III breast cancer trials and ten different studies participating in the International Breast Cancer Association Consortium (BCAC). The system has enabled researchers to simultaneously score large collections of TMA and export the standardised data to integrate with pathological and clinical outcome data, thereby facilitating biomarker discovery.