bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Benefit of the Underfloor Air Distribution System for Reducing Air-Conditioning and Heating Loads in Buildings
Authors: Lim Tae Sub , Schaefer Laura , Kim Jeong Tai , Kim Gon
Published: September 2011

Although there have been continuing efforts recently for low-energy buildings as parts of the low-carbon green growth movement, particular attention has been paid to architectural design, the elective control of façades, and the efficiency of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) mechanical systems. To maximize the gains from these efforts, it is essential to consider the energy distribution approach and its layout during the design stage of the building. To this end, air distribution principles in HVAC have grown in popularity in buildings. The method to deliver the energy is strongly associated with increasing concerns about indoor environmental quality on occupants’ well-being, as well as rising energy costs for space heating and cooling. This paper identifies types of air distribution systems for heating and cooling in buildings and addresses the potential energy benefit of an underfloor air distribution (UFAD or UAD) system over the conventional ceiling air distribution system. A series of EnergyPlus simulations shows performance differences between the two distribution systems. One result is that the potential benefits of an UFAD are clearly demonstrated for a large space with a high ceiling.
Assessment of Airborne Fine Particulate Matter and Particle Size Distribution in Settled Chalk Dust during Writing and Dusting Exercises in a Classroom
Authors: Majumdar Deepanjan , Gajghate D.G. , Pipalatkar Pradeep , Chalapati Rao C.V.
Published: September 2011

Airborne PM1, PM2.5, PM5 and PM10 generated during writing with three types of chalk sticks on a board and particle size distribution of chalk dust fall during writing and dusting of board were studied by portable aerosol spectrometer and particle size analyzer. ‘Local Gypsum’ chalk led to the highest increase in airborne particulate matter while ‘Clean-Write’ the least during writing. About 10% of particles in chalk dust fall during writing were finest from: ‘Clean Write’ (0.5 µm) followed by ‘Abroad Quality’ (0.67 µm) and ‘Local Gypsum’ (1.15 µm), while 50% was finest in abroad quality (5.12 µm) followed by ‘Clean Write’ (6.36 µm) and ‘Local Gypsum’ (77.65 µm). In dusting samples, 10%, 50% and 90% of particles were finest in ‘Clean Write’ followed by ‘Abroad Quality’ and ‘Local Gypsum’ chalks. ‘Clean Write’ chalk produced least total amount of PM1, PM2.4 and PM5 and PM10 per unit time in dust fall during writing. Although short-term exposure to airborne fine chalk particles may be low in classrooms, several years of exposure may be a matter of concern. Purpose of this work was to provide data that would lead to measures for minimization of health risk due to chalk dusts in classrooms.
On grief, fathering and the male role in men’s accounts of stillbirth
Authors: Bonnette Shari , Broom Alex
Published: September 2011

Stillbirth experiences are a traditionally under-researched area of health, with the limited research available focusing on women’s perspectives. Drawing on qualitative interviews with 12 men in Australia who have experienced stillbirth, this article explores how they engaged with their unborn and stillborn child as fathers and the perceived legitimacy of male grief. The results reveal the complex ways in which these men identify as fathers to their unborn and stillborn child; how they develop dynamic and ongoing relationships with their child post-stillbirth; and the problematic of expressing grief in the context of ‘the male role’. Our findings suggest cultural constructions of the ‘male role’ are both manifest and contested in the context of stillbirth, and that fathering and grief are situated within a highly gendered and relational dynamic. These findings suggest that further work is needed to explore and conceptualize the interplay of gender identity and bereavement for Australian men.
Harsher Sentences?
Authors: Bond Christine E.W. , Jeffries Samantha
Published: September 2011

Overall, reviews of international sentencing research conclude that offenders’ race/ethnicity has a direct effect on sentencing outcomes. Although specific research on Indigenous status and sentencing is much more limited, there is emerging evidence that Indigeneity also has a direct impact on sentencing outcomes. While North American research suggests harsher outcomes, Australian research indicates more lenient outcomes at some stage of the process. The current study examines the effect of Indigenous status on the length of imprisonment decision in Western Australia’s higher courts. We found that Indigenous offenders receive shorter terms of imprisonment than non-Indigenous offenders in statistically similar circumstances. We argue that our findings are broadly consistent with focal concerns of blameworthiness, risk and practical concerns having an impact on decisions about length of term. However, Indigeneity does not evoke the same judicial perceptions of race as suggested by prior North American research.
Modelling clear sky colours: A single scattering approach
Authors: Kocifaj M , Kránicz B
Published: September 2011

The theoretical formulae derived in this paper allow a rapid numerical modelling of clear sky colours under various aerosol loadings. After a detailed description of physical models of the atmosphere, numerical examples are performed for different situations. It is shown that the colours of daylight may become unstable even under cloudless conditions, which might become important for daylight photometry, colorimetry and related engineering applications. Based on the calculations, the isolines of hue and saturation are shown in figures related to the CIE u′v′ chromaticity description.
The assessment of vertical daylight factors across the walls of atrium buildings, Part 2: Rectangular atria
Authors: Du J , Sharples S
Published: September 2011

This study investigated the impact of well geometry and surface reflectance on vertical daylight factors on the walls of rectangular atria under a CIE standard overcast sky. The vertical daylight factors predicted using the modelling software Radiance were validated by artificial sky scale model measurements. More simulated data of vertical daylight factors for a very wide range of rectangular atrium geometries and surface reflectances are presented. From the results the variations of the vertical daylight factor on the walls of rectangular atria were assessed and some empirical functions were derived. Initial guidelines for supporting design are presented.
Lighting and display screens: Models for predicting luminance limits and disturbance
Authors: Ramasoot T , Fotios SA
Published: September 2011

An investigation of the level of disturbance caused by reflections from a variety of display screens, including interactive whiteboards, has been carried out using three test methods: Luminance adjustment, category rating and reading. The results from the luminance adjustment test and the category rating test were consistent, both showing similar significant effects of lighting-display parameters on the disturbance caused by screen reflections. In contrast, the objective measure of task performance in the reading test was barely responsive to reflections on the screens. Two models have been developed, one to predict the luminaire luminance at which 95% of observers were not disturbed by the reflections and the other to predict the rating of disturbance caused by reflections from the screens. Both models are based on lighting-display parameters including the size and luminance of the reflected light source and the specular reflectance, the effect of haze reflection and the background luminance of the display screen. These models can be used generally, to guide lighting recommendations and, specifically, to identify suitable luminaires to be used with given set of display screens or suitable display screens to be used with a given lighting installation.
Hybrid lighting systems: Performance and design
Authors: Mayhoub MS , Carter DJ
Published: September 2011

Hybrid lighting systems simultaneously deliver daylight and electric light into the core of a building where they are combined and distributed via luminaires. The systems have only been developed in the last few years and accordingly there is little accumulated experience of light delivery or design methods. This paper presents measured data for a commercially available hybrid system located in the United Kingdom. The performance of the hybrid system is compared with that of a tubular daylight guidance system. The results are discussed in the context of use of the systems for a range of sky conditions. Design recommendations and limitations to address knowledge shortfalls for hybrid systems are put forward.
Concurrent Treatment of Early Childhood OCD and ODD
Authors: Ale Chelsea M. , Krackow Elisa
Published: September 2011

A total of 12% of young children with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) present with comorbid oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), yet empirically based treatment packages are designed for implementation with monodiagnostic cases. The current case illustrates treatment of both disorders using concurrent exposure with response prevention and behavioral parent training. A 6-year-old male child is presented with significant obsessions and compulsions. To accommodate his OCD, his parents set limits inconsistently and used consequences infrequently. In addition, the child often was aggressive and defied adults. Treatment focused on training the child’s mother to differentiate anxiety-related behavior from oppositional behavior. The mother was also trained to conduct exposure and response prevention for compulsive behaviors and to increase positive parental attention, use a token economy for compliance, and implement time-out for aggressive behavior.
Mosaics, Triangles, and DNA
Authors: Bazeley Pat , Kemp Lynn
Published: September 2011

Metaphors used to describe the process of integration of analyses in mixed methods research are analyzed to determine various ways in which researchers think and write about integration. By examining the metaphors used and through examples of the application of each metaphor, the authors clarify the integrative processes they point to. The authors conclude this analysis by identifying from these metaphors eight principles to guide the effective integration of analyses in mixed methods research.
A Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Rinne Tiffany , Fairweather John
Published: September 2011

This article highlights the benefits of jointly using cultural modeling and cultural consensus analysis for the purpose of triangulation in research in which a cultural group’s point of view is desired. Cultural models are those presupposed, taken-for-granted models of knowledge and thought used in the course of everyday life to guide a person’s understanding of the world. These models can be identified by discourse analysis. Cultural consensus analysis is a quantitative-based methodological tool that asks if shared knowledge of a specific cultural domain exists within a group of informants. In presenting their results, the authors recommend the joint use of these two methods in research in which a broad understanding of a cultural group’s perspective on a given topic is needed.
Animated Recollection and Spectatorial Experience in Waltz with Bashir
Authors: Landesman Ohad , Bendor Roy
Published: September 2011

This article explores the ways in which Waltz with Bashir (2008), Ari Folman’s animated war memoir, combines a commentary on memory with a moral stance on war. The authors argue that the film exemplifies the capacity of animated documentaries not only to show what is otherwise difficult or impossible to represent in non-animated documentaries, but to serve as a vehicle for fostering new relationships between the viewer and the documentary text. In this vein, the authors argue that Waltz with Bashir synthetically produces a rich, consistent, and thus trustworthy sense of reality for its viewers not despite but because of its unique aesthetic choices – its innovative animation techniques and mixing of reality with fantasy. Accordingly, the authors weave together analyses of the film’s content and form with accounts of their reception, discuss how the film evokes certain somatic responses with individuals, and consider the political significance these responses may engender.
Animating the Real: A Case Study
Authors: Piotrowska Agnieszka
Published: September 2011

The ethics of collecting testimonies in documentary filmmaking has been the subject of academic discussion for decades, in particular since Claude Lanzmann’s landmark film Shoah (1985). There are occasions however when a subject of a potential film would like to tell his or her story but for some reason is unable to speak. Language breaks down when an attempt is made to symbolize the trauma. This article gives an account of the author’s experience of such an instance in making a three-part documentary series for the National Geographic about refugees coming to London. The article uses Lacanian psychoanalytical thought to give a theoretical framework to the events leading to the use of animation in the series.
The Secret “Spice”: An Undetectable Toxic Cause of Seizure
Authors: Havenon Adam de , Chin Brian , Thomas Karen C. , Afra Pegah
Published: September 2011

Neurologists and emergency department physicians are frequently involved in the comprehensive evaluation of a first generalized seizure. An important aspect of this evaluation is a detailed history which can identify a provoked seizure secondary to drug toxicity and hence avoid unnecessary treatment with antiepileptic drugs. “Spice” is an umbrella term for a variety of synthetic cannabinoid products whose inhalation has been associated with an increasing number of toxic side effects resulting in emergency department visits. These side effects (including psychosis, tachyarrhythmia, and seizures) are not typically seen with marijuana ( Cannabis sativa) use. We report 2 patients with no prior history of neurological disease that experienced their first generalized tonic–clonic seizure after smoking Spice. The mechanism behind the possible proconvulsant effect of synthetic cannabinoids is not known, but it may be due to their effects at the cannabinoid receptor CB1. Although the US Drug Enforcement Administration placed 5 synthetic cannabinoids into schedule 1 for a 12-month period beginning March 2011, new Spice products containing different synthetic cannabinoids continue to emerge. Because synthetic cannabinoids are not detectable on commercial drug screens it is important that neurologists and emergency department physicians consider Spice inhalation in their differential diagnosis of a first generalized seizure.
A novel pro-lymphangiogenic function for Th17/IL-17
Authors: Chauhan Sunil K. , Jin Yiping , Goyal Sunali , Lee Hyun Soo , Fuchsluger Thomas A. , Lee Hyung Keun , Dana Reza
Published: September 2011

Th17 cells, in addition to their proinflammatory functions, have been recognized as potent inducers of angiogenesis in autoimmune diseases and malignancies. In the present study, we demonstrate distinct mechanisms by which IL-17 induces lymphangiogenesis. Using the mouse cornea micropocket and cell culture assays, our data demonstrate that IL-17 directly promotes growth of lymphatic vessels by inducing increased expression of prolymphangiogenic VEGF-D and proliferation of lymphatic endothelial cells. However, IL-17–induced growth of blood vessels is primarily mediated through IL-1β secretion by IL-17–responsive cells. Furthermore, in vivo blockade of IL-17 in a preclinical model of Th17-dominant autoimmune ocular disease demonstrates a significant reduction in the corneal lymphangiogenesis and in the progression of clinical disease. Taken together, our findings demonstrate a novel prolymphangiogenic function for Th17/IL-17, indicating that IL-17 can promote the progression and amplification of immunity in part through its induction of lymphangiogenesis.
Enhanced levels of both the membrane-bound and soluble forms of IgM Fc receptor (FcμR) in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Li Fu Jun , Kubagawa Yoshiki , McCollum Matthew K. , Wilson Landon , Motohashi Tomoko , Bertoli Luigi F. , Barton James C. , Barnes Stephen , Davis Randall S. , Kubagawa Hiromi
Published: September 2011

The association of an IgM-Fc receptor (FcμR) with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) was suggested more than 30 years ago, but its authenticity has never been formally addressed. We examined the expression of the recently identified FcμR by B and T cells in CLL patients using receptor-specific monoclonal antibodies. CLL B cells (CD5+/CD19+) expressed much higher levels of FcμR on their cell surface than B cells from healthy donors. Such enhanced expression was more evident in immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region (IGHV)–mutated, CD38− or early Rai-stage CLL than in IGHV-unmutated, CD38+, or advanced Rai-stage CLL. Intriguingly, surface FcμR levels also were significantly elevated in the non-CLL B cells (CD5−/CD19+) and T cells (CD5+/CD19−), especially in IGHV-mutated CLL. CLL patients also had high serum titers of FcμR compared with healthy donors, and serum FcμR levels correlated significantly with circulating lymphocyte numbers but not with the IGHV mutation status or Rai stage. The serum FcμR was resolved as an ∼ 40-kDa protein, distinct from the cell surface FcμR of ∼ 60 kDa, and it was produced by both CLL B and non-CLL B cells. Mass spectrometric analysis revealed that the serum FcμR is a soluble form of the receptor encoded by an alternatively spliced FcμR transcript. These findings indicate enhanced levels of both membrane-bound and soluble forms of FcμR in CLL patients.
Major histocompatibility complex class II expression deficiency caused by a RFXANK founder mutation: a survey of 35 patients
Authors: Ouederni Monia , Vincent Quentin B. , Frange Pierre , Touzot Fabien , Scerra Sami , Bejaoui Mohamed , Bousfiha Aziz , Levy Yves , Lisowska-Grospierre Barbara , Canioni Danielle , Bruneau Julie , Debré Marianne , Blanche Stéphane , Abel Laurent , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Fischer Alain , Picard Capucine
Published: September 2011

Inherited deficiency of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules impairs antigen presentation to CD4+ T cells and results in combined immunodeficiency (CID). Autosomal-recessive mutations in the RFXANK gene account for two-thirds of all cases of MHC class II deficiency. We describe here the genetic, clinical, and immunologic features of 35 patients from 30 unrelated kindreds from North Africa sharing the same RFXANK founder mutation, a 26-bp deletion called I5E6-25_I5E6 + 1), and date the founder event responsible for this mutation in this population to approximately 2250 years ago (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1750-3025 years). Ten of the 23 patients who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) were cured, with the recovery of almost normal immune functions. Five of the patients from this cohort who did not undergo HSCT had a poor prognosis and eventually died (at ages of 1-17 years). However, 7 patients who did not undergo HSCT (at ages of 6-32 years) are still alive on Ig treatment and antibiotic prophylaxis. RFXANK deficiency is a severe, often fatal CID for which HSCT is the only curative treatment. However, some patients may survive for relatively long periods if multiple prophylactic measures are implemented.
Quaternary organization of GPIb-IX complex and insights into Bernard-Soulier syndrome revealed by the structures of GPIbβ and a GPIbβ/GPIX chimera
Authors: McEwan Paul A. , Yang Wenjun , Carr Katherine H. , Mo Xi , Zheng Xiaofeng , Li Renhao , Emsley Jonas
Published: September 2011

Platelet GPIb-IX receptor complex has 3 subunits GPIbα, GPIbβ, and GPIX, which assemble with a ratio of 1:2:1. Dysfunction in surface expression of the complex leads to Bernard-Soulier syndrome. We have crystallized the GPIbβ ectodomain (GPIbβE) and determined the structure to show a single leucine-rich repeat with N- and C-terminal disulphide-bonded capping regions. The structure of a chimera of GPIbβE and 3 loops (a,b,c) taken from the GPIX ectodomain sequence was also determined. The chimera (GPIbβEabc), but not GPIbβE, forms a tetramer in the crystal, showing a quaternary interface between GPIbβ and GPIX. Central to this interface is residue Tyr106 from GPIbβ, which inserts into a pocket generated by 2 loops (b,c) from GPIX. Mutagenesis studies confirmed this interface as a valid representation of interactions between GPIbβ and GPIX in the full-length complex. Eight GPIbβ missense mutations identified from patients with Bernard-Soulier syndrome were examined for changes to GPIb-IX complex surface expression. Two mutations, A108P and P74R, were found to maintain normal secretion/folding of GPIbβE but were unable to support GPIX surface expression. The close structural proximity of these mutations to Tyr106 and the GPIbβE interface with GPIX indicates they disrupt the quaternary organization of the GPIb-IX complex.
Mouse models of MYH9-related disease: mutations in nonmuscle myosin II-A
Authors: Zhang Yingfan , Conti Mary Anne , Malide Daniela , Dong Fan , Wang Aibing , Shmist Yelena A. , Liu Chengyu , Zerfas Patricia , Daniels Mathew P. , Chan Chi-Chao , Kozin Elliot , Kachar Bechara , Kelley Michael J. , Kopp Jeffrey B. , Adelstein Robert S.
Published: September 2011

We have generated 3 mouse lines, each with a different mutation in the nonmuscle myosin II-A gene, Myh9 (R702C, D1424N, and E1841K). Each line develops MYH9-related disease similar to that found in human patients. R702C mutant human cDNA fused with green fluorescent protein was introduced into the first coding exon of Myh9, and D1424N and E1841K mutations were introduced directly into the corresponding exons. Homozygous R702C mice die at embryonic day 10.5-11.5, whereas homozygous D1424N and E1841K mice are viable. All heterozygous and homozygous mutant mice show macrothrombocytopenia with prolonged bleeding times, a defect in clot retraction, and increased extramedullary megakaryocytes. Studies of cultured megakaryocytes and live-cell imaging of megakaryocytes in the BM show that heterozygous R702C megakaryocytes form fewer and shorter proplatelets with less branching and larger buds. The results indicate that disrupted proplatelet formation contributes to the macrothrombocytopenia in mice and most probably in humans. We also observed premature cataract formation, kidney abnormalities, including albuminuria, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and progressive kidney disease, and mild hearing loss. Our results show that heterozygous mice with mutations in the myosin motor or filament-forming domain manifest similar hematologic, eye, and kidney phenotypes to humans with MYH9-related disease.
Gut flora enhance bacterial clearance in lung through toll-like receptors 4
Authors: Tsay Tzyy-Bin , Yang Ming-Chieh , Chen Pei-Hsuan , Hsu Ching-Mei , Chen Lee-Wei
Published: September 2011

Background

The influence of the gut flora on lung inflammatory reaction against bacterial challenge remains undefined. This study was designed to investigate whether gut flora enhances lung defense againstE.colipneumonia through TLR4 signaling.

Methods

C3H/HeN (WT) mice and C3H/HeJ (TLR4 deficient) mice were treated with antibiotics in drinking water for 4 weeks to deplete gut commensal microflora. At week 3, drinking water was supplemented with lipopolysaccharide (LPS); a ligand for TLR4, to trigger TLRs in intestinal tract. At the end of 4thweek,E.coliwas injected to trachea to induceE.colipneumonia.

Results

We found that commensal depletion by antibiotic pretreatment beforeE.colipneumonia challenge induced a 30% decrease of MPO activity in the lung, a significant decrease of bacterial killing activity of alveolar macrophage, and bacterial counts in C3H/HeN mice but not in C3H/HeJ (TLR4 deficient) mice. LPS, a TLR4 ligand, supplementation during antibiotic pretreatment reversed these effects and decreasedE.colipneumonia-induced mortality in C3H/HeN mice. Furthermore, commensal depletion induced a suppression of NF-κB DNA binding activity and an increase of KC, MIP-2, IL-1β expression in the lung in C3H/HeN mice but not in C3H/HeJ mice.

Conclusions

Taken together with that commensal depletion increasedE.colipneumonia-induced mortality and LPS supplementation decreased it, we conclude that gut flora enhances bacterial clearance againstE.colipneumonia through TLR4.
High frequency chest wall oscillation for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations: a randomized sham-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Mahajan Amit K , Diette Gregory B , Hatipoğlu Umur , Bilderback Andrew , Ridge Alana , Harris Vanessa Walker , Dalapathi Vijay , Badlani Sameer , Lewis Stephanie , Charbeneau Jeff T , Naureckas Edward T , Krishnan Jerry A
Published: September 2011

Background

High frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) is used for airway mucus clearance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of HFCWO early in the treatment of adults hospitalized for acute asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

Randomized, multi-center, double-masked phase II clinical trial of active or sham treatment initiated within 24 hours of hospital admission for acute asthma or COPD at four academic medical centers. Patients received active or sham treatment for 15 minutes three times a day for four treatments. Medical management was standardized across groups. The primary outcomes were patient adherence to therapy after four treatments (minutes used/60 minutes prescribed) and satisfaction. Secondary outcomes included change in Borg dyspnea score (≥ 1 unit indicates a clinically significant change), spontaneously expectorated sputum volume, and forced expired volume in 1 second.

Results

Fifty-two participants were randomized to active (n = 25) or sham (n = 27) treatment. Patient adherence was similarly high in both groups (91% vs. 93%; p = 0.70). Patient satisfaction was also similarly high in both groups. After four treatments, a higher proportion of patients in the active treatment group had a clinically significant improvement in dyspnea (70.8% vs. 42.3%, p = 0.04). There were no significant differences in other secondary outcomes.

Conclusions

HFCWO is well tolerated in adults hospitalized for acute asthma or COPD and significantly improves dyspnea. The high levels of patient satisfaction in both treatment groups justify the need for sham controls when evaluating the use of HFCWO on patient-reported outcomes. Additional studies are needed to more fully evaluate the role of HFCWO in improving in-hospital and post-discharge outcomes in this population.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00181285
A global view of porcine transcriptome in three tissues from a full-sib pair with extreme phenotypes in growth and fat deposition by paired-end RNA sequencing
Authors: Chen Congying , Ai Huashui , Ren Jun , Li Wanbo , Li Pinghua , Qiao Ruimin , Ouyang Jing , Yang Ming , Ma Junwu , Huang Lusheng
Published: September 2011

Background

Elucidation of the pig transcriptome is essential for interpreting functional elements of the genome and understanding the genetic architecture of complex traits such as fat deposition, metabolism and growth.

Results

Here we used massive parallel high-throughput RNA sequencing to generate a high-resolution map of the porcine mRNA and miRNA transcriptome in liver, longissimus dorsi and abdominal fat from two full-sib F2 hybrid pigs with segregated phenotypes on growth, blood physiological and biochemical parameters, and fat deposition. We obtained 8,508,418-10,219,332 uniquely mapped reads that covered 78.0% of the current annotated transcripts and identified 48,045-122,931 novel transcript fragments, which constituted 17,085-29,499 novel transcriptional active regions in six tested samples. We found that about 18.8% of the annotated genes showed alternative splicing patterns, and alternative 3' splicing is the most common type of alternative splicing events in pigs. Cross-tissue comparison revealed that many transcriptional events are tissue-differential and related to important biological functions in their corresponding tissues. We also detected a total of 164 potential novel miRNAs, most of which were tissue-specifically identified. Integrated analysis of genome-wide association study and differential gene expression revealed interesting candidate genes for complex traits, such as IGF2, CYP1A1, CKM and CES1 for heart weight, hemoglobin, pork pH value and serum cholesterol, respectively.

Conclusions

This study provides a global view of the complexity of the pig transcriptome, and gives an extensive new knowledge about alternative splicing, gene boundaries and miRNAs in pigs. Integrated analysis of genome wide association study and differential gene expression allows us to find important candidate genes for porcine complex traits.
Serotype and genotype analysis of dengue virus by sequencing followed by phylogenetic analysis using samples from three mini outbreaks-2007-2009 in Pakistan
Authors: Fatima Zareen , Idrees Muhammad , Bajwa Mohammad A , Tahir Zarfishan , Ullah Obaid , Zia Muhammad Q , Hussain Abrar , Akram Madiha , Khubaib Bushra , Afzal Samia , Munir Saira , Saleem Sana , Rauff Bisma , Badar Sadaf , Naudhani Mahrukh , Butt Sadia , Aftab Mahwish , Ali Liaqat , Ali Muhammad
Published: September 2011

Background

Since the first reported outbreak of dengue hemorrhagic fever in Pakistan, several mini outbreaks have erupted in the region. Dengue virus serotype 3 (DEN-3) was first documented in 2005 outbreak in Karachi. Reports show that serotype 3 is prevalent in Lahore since 2008. Serotype 2 (DEN-2) is the major circulating serotype in Pakistan as it is documented since 1994. We have conducted a detailed study of three outbreaks of dengue virus infection that occurred in years 2007, 2008 and 2009 in Lahore by using molecular techniques such as PCR and nucleotide sequencing of the C-prM gene junction of Dengue virus.

Results

Through the analysis of 114 serum samples collected over the period of three years (2007-2009), total 20 patients were found to be infected with dengue virus. In year 2007, four were positive for serotype 2 and one sample was positive for serotype DEN-3. In 2008, five samples had concurrent infection with serotypes DEN-2 and DEN-3 while three samples were infected only with serotype DEN-2. In year 2009, one sample had concurrent infection with serotypes DEN-2 and DEN-3 while six were positive for serotype DEN-2 only.

Conclusions

Our study showed that serotype DEN-2 was dominant in positive samples of dengue virus infection collected during the period of three years (2007-2009). The other serotype present was serotype DEN-3. Genotypes of serotype DEN-2 and serotype DEN-3 were subtype IV and subtype III, respectively.
A preliminary investigation assessing the viability of classifying hand postures in seniors
Authors: Tavakolan Mojgan , Xiao Zhen Gang , Menon Carlo
Published: September 2011

Background

Fear of frailty is a main concern for seniors. Surface electromyography (sEMG) controlled assistive devices for the upper extremities could potentially be used to augment seniors' force while training their muscles and reduce their fear of frailty. In fact, these devices could both improve self confidence and facilitate independent leaving in domestic environments. The successful implementation of sEMG controlled devices for the elderly strongly relies on the capability of properly determining seniors' actions from their sEMG signals. In this research we investigated the viability of classifying hand postures in seniors from sEMG signals of their forearm muscles.

Methods

Nineteen volunteers, including seniors (70 years old in average) and young people (27 years old in average), participated in this study and sEMG signals from four of their forearm muscles (i.e. Extensor Digitorum, Palmaris Longus, Flexor Carpi Ulnaris and Extensor Carpi Radialis) were recorded. The feature vectors were built by extracting features from each channel of sEMG including autoregressive (AR) model coefficients, waveform length and root mean square (RMS). Multi-class support vector machines (SVM) was used as a classifier to distinguish between fifteen different essential hand gestures including finger pinching.

Results

Classification of hand gestures both in the pronation and supination positions of the arm was possible. Classified hand gestures were: rest, ulnar deviation, radial deviation, grasp and four different finger pinching configurations. The obtained average classification accuracy was 90.6% for the seniors and 97.6% for the young volunteers.

Conclusions

The obtained results proved that the pattern recognition of sEMG signals in seniors is feasible for both pronation and supination positions of the arm and the use of only four EMG channel is sufficient. The outcome of this study therefore validates the hypothesis that, although there are significant neurological and physical changes occurring in humans while ageing, sEMG controlled hand assistive devices could potentially be used by the older people.
Characteristics of Chinese patients with cough in primary care centre
Authors: Hong Qunying , Bai Chunxue , Wang Xiangdong
Published: September 2011

Background

Cough is one of the most common respiratory symptoms and is well characterized in specialized cough clinics with high success rates of diagnosis and treatment. However, there is a paucity of data regarding cough in primary care settings. The present study aimed at investigating clinical epidemiology of cough through a national study of two questionnaire surveys sent to primary care physicians in China.

Methods

Approximately 18,000 subjects recruited were having daytime or night symptoms of cough and diagnoses of respiratory disease from February 2005 to April 2006 as Survey 1 and from June 2007 to December 2007 as Survey 2. Patients suffering from respiratory malignancy, hyperthyroidism, hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, severe hypohepatia or renal dysfunction, pregnancy, possible pregnancy or lactation, neutropenia were not eligible. Information regarding demography, history of allergies, symptomatic profile, treatment and curative effects for cough was elicited.

Results

8216 questionnaires were collected in Survey 1 and 9711 in Survey 2. The mean values of ages were 25.7 and 22.3 years old, respectively. Symptoms included expectoration (74% and 76%), wheeze (59% and 74%), breathlessness (22% and 26%), chest pain (9% and 13%) and fever (15% and 18%). About 15% and 23% patients had hypersusceptibility, of whom 6% to 17% had a family history. More than 50% of the cases had histories of allergic rhinitis, asthma, conjunctivitis or atopic dermatitis. Asthma, COPD, and bronchitis were dominant etiologies of cough. Procaterol or the combination of antibiotics and steroids were used as the treatment.

Conclusion

Causes and outcomes of cough differed with ages and time in this particular national study, while successful and precise diagnosis and management of cough in primary care settings need to be further improved in China.
Honokiol, a chemopreventive agent against skin cancer, induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in human epidermoid A431 cells
Authors: Chilampalli Chandeshwari , Guillermo Ruth , Kaushik Radhey S , Young Alan , Chandrasekher Gudiseva , Fahmy Hesham , Dwivedi Chandradhar
Published: September 2011

Honokiol is a plant lignan isolated from bark and seed cones of Magnolia officinalis. Recent studies from our laboratory indicated that honokiol pretreatment decreased ultraviolet B-induced skin cancer development in SKH-1 mice. The aim of the present investigation was to study the effects of honokiol on human epidermoid squamous carcinoma A431 cells and to elucidate possible mechanisms involved in preventing skin cancer. A431 cells were pretreated with different concentrations of honokiol for a specific time period and investigated for effects on apoptosis and cell cycle analysis. Treatment with honokiol significantly decreased cell viability and cell proliferation in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Honokiol pretreatment at 50 μmol/L concentration induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest significantly ( P < 0.05) and decreased the percentage of cells in the S and G2/M phase. Honokiol down-regulated the expression of cyclin D1, cyclin D2, Cdk2, Cdk4 and Cdk6 proteins and up-regulated the expression of Cdk's inhibitor proteins p21 and p27. Pretreatment of A431 cells with honokiol leads to induction of apoptosis and DNA fragmentation. These findings indicate that honokiol provides its effects in squamous carcinoma cells by inducing cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase and apoptosis.
Terminology of polymers and polymerization processes in dispersed systems (IUPAC Recommendations 2011)
Authors: Slomkowski Stanislaw , Alemán José V. , Gilbert Robert G. , Hess Michael , Horie Kazuyuki , Jones Richard G. , Kubisa Przemyslaw , Meisel Ingrid , Mormann Werner , Penczek Stanisław , Stepto Robert F. T.
Published: September 2011

A large group of industrially important polymerization processes is carried out in dispersed systems. These processes differ with respect to their physical nature, mechanism of particle formation, particle morphology, size, charge, types of interparticle interactions, and many other aspects. Polymer dispersions, and polymers derived from polymerization in dispersed systems, are used in diverse areas such as paints, adhesives, microelectronics, medicine, cosmetics, biotechnology, and others. Frequently, the same names are used for different processes and products or different names are used for the same processes and products. The document contains a list of recommended terms and definitions necessary for the unambiguous description of processes, products, parameters, and characteristic features relevant to polymers in dispersed systems.
A Cost Effective Triaxial Test Method for Unsaturated Soils
Authors: Burrage R. E. , Anderson J. B. , Pando M. A. , Ogunro V. O. , Cottingham M. A.
Published: September 2011

This paper describes a test method to measure the shear strength of unsaturated soils using standard triaxial equipment with minor, low-cost modifications. The method is based on using the axis translation technique in a standard triaxial testing apparatus with a base pedestal slightly modified to accommodate a high-air-entry ceramic disk. The testing apparatus and procedure are described. The aim of the proposed test setup was to limit the modifications of the standard triaxial setup within a reasonable budget to make the method accessible and attractive to researchers and practitioners that may otherwise not be able to afford the testing devices commonly used in the field of unsaturated soil mechanics. Thus, the paper discusses the effectiveness of the proposed test method, and also discusses the potential limitations that may exist due to some of the simplifications used in this methodology. The proposed methodology was used to evaluate the shear strength of residual soils at the Auburn National Geotechnical Experimentation Site. The shear strength parameters obtained for the Auburn unsaturated soils were compared to previous tests conducted in similar soils and proved to be reasonably accurate.
A Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical True Triaxial Cell for Evaluation of the Impact of Anisotropy on Thermally Induced Volume Changes in Soils
Authors: Russell Coccia Charles James , McCartney John S.
Published: September 2011

This paper describes a new thermo-hydro-mechanical true triaxial cell used for the evaluation of the impact of stress-induced anisotropy on thermally induced volume changes in saturated soils. Specifically, details of the experimental setup, instrumentation, thermal calibration of the device, experimental procedures, and typical measurements are presented in this paper. Principal stresses were applied to the sides of a cubical specimen with a side length of 178 mm independently using flexible bladders, while the pore water pressure and temperature were controlled at the top and bottom of the specimen using rigid plates with embedded heaters and fluid control ports. In the testing program, temperatures between 25 and 65 °C were applied in stages to four different specimens of compacted bonny silt which had been consolidated to different initial anisotropic stress states under quasi-plane strain conditions. Consistent volumetric contraction was measured in each of the specimens during heating, regardless of the initial stress state. However, for specimens with a greater initial principal stress difference, the soil was observed to expand in the direction of the minor principal axis and contract in the direction of the major principal stress during heating. Relatively consistent elastic volumetric and axial contraction was noted during cooling regardless of initial stress state. The results from this preliminary investigation indicate the importance of measuring the impact of temperature changes in the directions of anisotropic stresses as part of the design of thermally active geotechnical systems.
Resistance of Short, Stiff Piles to Multidirectional Lateral Loadings
Authors: Su D.
Published: September 2011

Lateral loads applied to pile foundations in some cases are multidirectional. However, most of the past studies only considered soil-pile interaction under unidirectional horizontal loadings. This paper describes a comprehensive experimental study on a pile-sand system under both unidirectional and multidirectional horizontal loadings using a computer numerically controlled biaxial motion platform. The displacement paths at the pile head include unidirectional regular paths, cross paths, figure-8 paths, and unidirectional and multidirectional irregular paths with different displacement amplitudes and different aspect ratios of the displacement amplitudes along two horizontal directions (α). The test results indicate that the preloading along one horizontal direction influences the subsequent response along the orthogonal horizontal direction, in terms of the pile resistance and the direction of the force increment vector. In the figure-8 tests, the shapes of the force-displacement curves in most cases differ significantly from that obtained from the unidirectional regular test and different from the unidirectional regular test, the maximum forces appear before the displacements reach the maximum values. In these tests, the direction of the force increment vector always deviates from the direction of the displacement increment vector. According to the results of the regular and irregular loading tests, the lateral resistance of the pile under the multidirectional paths is generally lower than that under the unidirectional path, and the degree of reduction increases with the aspect ratio (α). The ratio of force (rF), defined as the maximum force in the multidirectional tests to that in the unidirectional test, can be expressed as an exponential function of α. Considering that the reduction in the resistance can reach as large as about 30%, overlooking the multidirectional loading effect can lead to unconservative analysis or design in some cases.
Induction of specific immune response and suppression of fertility by B-cell-epitope-based mimovirus vaccine
Authors: Shen Zi-gang , He Wei , Zhang Ji , He Hai-yang , Yang Xia , Chen Zheng-qiong , Yang Ping , Li Jian , Liang Zhi-qing , Wu Yu-zhang , Li Jin-tao
Published: September 2011

SPINLW1 (previously known as eppin (epididymal protease inhibitor)) is a target under intense scrutiny in the study of male contraceptive vaccines. B-cell-dominant epitopes are now recognized as key parts of the induction of humoral immune responses against target antigens. The generation of robust humoral responsesin vivohas become a crucial problem in the development of modern vaccines. In this study, we developed a completely novel B-cell-dominant-epitope-based mimovirus vaccine, which is a kind of virus-size particulate antigen delivery system. The mimovirus successfully self-assembled from a cationic peptide containing a cell-penetrating peptide of TAT49–57and a plasmid DNA encoding both three SPINLW1 (103–115) copies and adjuvant C3d3. The male mice were immunized with the epitope-based mimovirus vaccine, which resulted in a gradual elevation of specific serum IgG antibody levels. These reached a peak at week 4. Mating for the fertility assay showed that the mimovirus vaccine had accomplished a moderate fertility inhibition effect and investigation into the mechanism of action showed that it did so by interfering with the reproductive function of the sperm but that it did not damage the structures of the testes or cause serum testosterone to decline. Our results suggest an ideal protocol for suppressing fertility in mice by an engineered mimovirus vaccine.
Mammalian meiosis is more conserved by sex than by species: conserved co-expression networks of meiotic prophase
Authors: Su Yongchun , Li Yunfei , Ye Ping
Published: September 2011

Despite the importance of meiosis to human reproduction, we know remarkably little about the genes and pathways that regulate meiotic progression through prophase in any mammalian species. Microarray expression profiles of mammalian gonads provide a valuable resource for probing gene networks. However, expression studies are confounded by mixed germ cell and somatic cell populations in the gonad and asynchronous germ cell populations. Further, widely used clustering methods for analyzing microarray profiles are unable to prioritize candidate genes for testing. To derive a comprehensive understanding of gene expression in mammalian meiotic prophase, we constructed conserved co-expression networks by linking expression profiles of male and female gonads across mouse and human. We demonstrate that conserved gene co-expression dramatically improved the accuracy of detecting known meiotic genes compared with using co-expression in individual studies. Interestingly, our results indicate that meiotic prophase is more conserved by sex than by species. The co-expression networks allowed us to identify genes involved in meiotic recombination, chromatin cohesion, and piRNA metabolism. Further, we were able to prioritize candidate genes based on quantitative co-expression links with known meiotic genes. Literature studies of these candidate genes suggest that some are human disease genes while others are associated with mammalian gonads. In conclusion, our co-expression networks provide a systematic understanding of cross-sex and cross-species conservations observed during meiotic prophase. This approach further allows us to prioritize candidate meiotic genes for in-depth mechanistic studies in the future.
Mendel’s Genes: Toward a Full Molecular Characterization
Authors: Reid James B , Ross John J
Published: September 2011

The discipline of classical genetics is founded on the hereditary behavior of the seven genes studied by Gregor Mendel. The advent of molecular techniques has unveiled much about the identity of these genes. To date, four genes have been sequenced: A (flower color), LE (stem length), I (cotyledon color), and R (seed shape). Two of the other three genes, GP (pod color) and FA (fasciation), are amenable to candidate gene approaches on the basis of their function, linkage relationships, and synteny between the pea and Medicago genomes. However, even the gene (locus) identity is not known for certain for the seventh character, the pod form, although it is probably V. While the nature of the mutations used by Mendel cannot be determined with certainty, on the basis of the varieties available in Europe in the 1850s, we can speculate on their nature. It turns out that these mutations are attributable to a range of causes—from simple base substitutions and changes to splice sites to the insertion of a transposon-like element. These findings provide a fascinating connection between Mendelian genetics and molecular biology that can be used very effectively in teaching new generations of geneticists. Mendel’s characters also provide novel insights into the nature of the genes responsible for characteristics of agronomic and consumer importance.