bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyzing Macroeconomic Forecastability
Authors: Fair Ray C.
Published: February 2011

This paper estimates, using stochastic simulation and a multi‐country macroeconometric model, the fraction of the forecast error variance of output changes and the fraction of the forecast error variance of inflation that are due to unpredictable asset price changes. The results suggest that between about 25% and 37% of the forecast error variance of output growth over eight quarters is due to asset price changes and between about 33% and 60% of the forecast error variance of inflation over eight quarters is due to asset price changes. These estimates provide limits to the accuracy that can be expected from macroeconomic forecasting. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of structural modifications on 3‐(3,5‐dichlorophenyl)‐2,4‐thiazolidinedione‐induced hepatotoxicity in Fischer 344 rats
Authors: Patel Niti N. , Crincoli Christine M. , Frederick Douglas M. , Tchao Ruy , Harvison Peter J.
Published: February 2011

Glitazones, used for type II diabetes, have been associated with liver damage in humans. A structural feature known as a 2,4‐thiazolidinedione (TZD) ring may contribute to this toxicity. TZD rings are of interest since continued human exposure via the glitazones and various prototype drugs is possible. Previously, we found that 3‐(3,5‐dichlorophenyl)‐2,4‐thiazolidinedione (DCPT) was hepatotoxic in rats. To evaluate the importance of structure on DCPT toxicity, we therefore studied two series of analogs. The TZD ring was replaced with: a mercaptoacetic acid group {[[[(3,5‐dichlorophenyl)amino]carbonyl]thio]acetic acid, DCTA}; a methylated TZD ring [3‐(3,5‐dichlorophenyl)‐5‐methyl‐2,4‐thiazolidinedione, DPMT]; and isomeric thiazolidinone rings [3‐(3,5‐dichlorophenyl)‐2‐ and 3‐(3,5‐dichlorophenyl)‐4‐thiazolidinone, 2‐DCTD and 4‐DCTD, respectively]. The following phenyl ring‐modified analogs were also tested: 3‐phenyl‐, 3‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐, 3‐(3,5‐dimethylphenyl)‐ and 3‐[3,5‐bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]‐2,4‐thiazolidinedione (PTZD, CPTD, DMPT and DFMPT, respectively). Toxicity was assessed in male Fischer 344 rats 24 h after administration of the compounds. In the TZD series only DPMT produced liver damage, as evidenced by elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities at 0.6 and 1.0 mmol kg−1 (298.6 ± 176.1 and 327.3 ± 102.9 Sigma‐Frankel units ml−1, respectively) vs corn oil controls (36.0 ± 11.3) and morphological changes in liver sections. Among the phenyl analogs, hepatotoxicity was observed in rats administered PTZD, CPTD and DMPT; with ALT values of 1196.2 ± 133.6, 1622.5 ± 218.5 and 2071.9 ± 217.8, respectively (1.0 mmol kg−1 doses). Morphological examination revealed severe hepatic necrosis in these animals. Our results suggest that hepatotoxicity of these compounds is critically dependent on the presence of a TZD ring and also the phenyl substituents. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of aluminium content and iron homeostasis in nipple aspirate fluids from healthy women and breast cancer‐affected patients
Authors: Mannello Ferdinando , Tonti Gaetana A. , Medda Virginia , Simone Patrizia , Darbre Philippa D.
Published: February 2011

Aluminium is not a physiological component of the breast but has been measured recently in human breast tissues and breast cyst fluids at levels above those found in blood serum or milk. Since the presence of aluminium can lead to iron dyshomeostasis, levels of aluminium and iron‐binding proteins (ferritin, transferrin) were measured in nipple aspirate fluid (NAF), a fluid present in the breast duct tree and mirroring the breast microenvironment. NAFs were collected noninvasively from healthy women (NoCancer; n = 16) and breast cancer‐affected women (Cancer; n = 19), and compared with levels in serum (n = 15) and milk (n = 45) from healthy subjects. The mean level of aluminium, measured by ICP‐mass spectrometry, was significantly higher in Cancer NAF (268.4 ± 28.1 μg l−1; n = 19) than in NoCancer NAF (131.3 ± 9.6 μg l−1; n = 16; P < 0.0001). The mean level of ferritin, measured through immunoassay, was also found to be higher in Cancer NAF (280.0 ± 32.3 μg l−1) than in NoCancer NAF (55.5 ± 7.2 μg l−1), and furthermore, a positive correlation was found between levels of aluminium and ferritin in the Cancer NAF (correlation coefficient R = 0.94, P < 0.001). These results may suggest a role for raised levels of aluminium and modulation of proteins that regulate iron homeostasis as biomarkers for identification of women at higher risk of developing breast cancer. The reasons for the high levels of aluminium in NAF remain unknown but possibilities include either exposure to aluminium‐based antiperspirant salts in the adjacent underarm area and/or preferential accumulation of aluminium by breast tissues. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identifying Critical Brand Contact Elements of a Tourist Destination: Applications of Kano's Model and the Importance–satisfaction Model
Authors: Chang Kuo‐Chien , Chen Mu‐Chen , Hsu Chia‐Lin
Published: February 2011

A destination brand comprises brand elements that lead tourists to form a brand impression of a destination. Based on a literature review, this study contributes to a model for exploring tourist destination brand contact experiences. The results from applying Kano's model and the importance–satisfaction model to a specific hot spring destination indicate that four types of contact elements can be identified as having different quality attributes. The contact elements related to staff's service efficiency, attitude and willingness of serving customers are identified as the critical brand contact elements for the tourist destination. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Validation of the Distress Thermometer, Impact Thermometer and combinations of these in screening for distress
Authors: Baken Donald McLaren , Woolley Cheryl
Published: March 2011

Objective: Screening for distress is important for identifying those who might benefit from support and allocating limited resources. A common screening tool is the Distress Thermometer (DT) but other thermometers such as the Impact Thermometer (IT) have also been suggested. The objective of this study was to investigate the accuracy in identifying distress of these two screening thermometers individually and two possible methods of combining the responses.

Methods: A random selection of 400 patients from a regional cancer treatment service data base was selected and 50% responded to a mailed questionnaire. The accuracy of these screening options individually and of two methods of combining the responses was investigated by comparison with responses to the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.

Results: The results supported the cut off suggested in the literature for the DT. The IT individually was found to perform at least as well as the DT individually. However, the combinations of the two generally proved to be more accurate than either used alone.

Conclusions: These results suggest that the accuracy of the DT in identifying distress can be increased by combining it with the IT. This increase in accuracy must be weighed against the possible increase in complexity. However, one method of combining the responses from the two thermometers simply involves summing the two scores and this should not be enough to deter busy clinicians from screening patients and family members. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation on the Reaction of Powdered Tin as a Metallic Fuel with Some Pyrotechnic Oxidizers
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Ghorban , Eslami Abbas
Published: March 2011

Thermogravimetry (TG), differential thermal analysis (DTA), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) have been used to examine the thermal behavior of Sn+KClO3, Sn+KNO3, and Sn+KClO4 pyrotechnic systems and the results were compared with thermal characteristics of individual constituents. TG curves for tin powder, heated alone in air, showed a relatively slow oxidation above 570 °C. From thermal results the decomposition temperatures of KClO3, KClO4, and KNO3, in nitrogen atmosphere, were measured at 472, 592 and 700 °C, respectively. For the Sn+KNO3 pyrotechnic system, the tin oxidation was completed within the range of 480 to 500 °C. Replacing KNO3 with KClO4 led to an increase of thermal stability of the pyrotechnic mixture. Among above‐mentioned pyrotechnic mixtures, Sn+KClO3 has the lowest ignition temperature at about 390 °C. The apparent activation energy (E), ΔG#, ΔH# and ΔS# of the combustion processes were obtained from the DSC experiments. Based on these kinetic data and ignition temperatures, the relative reactivity of these mixtures was found to obey in the following order: Sn+KClO3>Sn+KNO3>Sn+KClO4.
Chemical composition, impact from biomass burning, and mass closure for PM2.5 and PM10 aerosols at Hyytiälä, Finland, in summer 2007
Authors: Maenhaut Willy , Nava Silvia , Lucarelli Franco , Wang Wan , Chi Xuguang , Kulmala Markku
Published: March 2011

A comprehensive chemical aerosol characterisation was carried out at the forested site of Hyytiälä, Finland, from 2 to 30 August 2007. PM2.5 and PM10 Nuclepore polycarbonate and quartz fibre filter samples were taken in parallel, typically for separate day‐time and night‐time periods. All samples were analysed for the particulate mass by weighing. The Nuclepore filters were analysed for over 20 elements by particle‐induced X‐ray emission (PIXE) spectrometry and for major anions and cations by ion chromatography. The quartz fibre filters were analysed for organic and elemental carbon by a thermal‐optical transmission technique. A number of samples exhibited high K, Zn, and oxalate levels, indicating an impact from biomass burning. A noteworthy episode occurred on 12‐13 August, when air masses were advected from the southern part of European Russia where extensive biomass burning had occurred. In the aerosol chemical mass closure calculations, eight aerosol types were considered. Organic matter (OM) contributed by far the most to the PM2.5 and PM10 mass; it accounted for about 70% of the average PM2.5 and PM10 mass and 48% of the coarse (PM10–2.5) aerosol. Crustal matter, deduced from the PIXE data, provided a rather small contribution; only 3% in PM2.5, 13% in PM10, and 32% in the coarse aerosol. The mean PM2.5 and PM10 mass concentrations and their attribution to the eight aerosol types for the 2007 campaign at Hyytiälä were similar to those for the cold period of a 2006 summer campaign at the forested site of K‐puszta, Hungary. OM was more important and nitrate was clearly less important at Hyytiälä, though. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of a chondrite meteorite from Slovenia
Authors: Šmit Ž. , Jezeršek D. , Pelicon P. , Vavpetič P. , Jeršek M. , Mirtič B.
Published: March 2011

The chondrite meteorite that exploded above the city of Jesenice in north‐west Slovenia on April 2009, and was partly recovered during the subsequent summer months, was investigated by the in‐air method of proton‐induced X‐rays and gamma rays (PIXE‐PIGE) and by microbeam mapping in a vacuum. The chondrules composed of olivine/pyroxene and pyroxenes were identified and the composition of the minerals determined. Different pyroxene types were found in the chondrule core and in the enveloping material. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Review: Can we identify how programmes aimed at promoting self‐management in musculoskeletal pain work and who benefits? A systematic review of sub‐group analysis within RCTs
Authors: Milesl Clare L. , Pincusl Tamar , Carnesl Dawn , Homerl Kate E. , Taylorl Stephanie J.C. , Bremnerl Stephen A. , Rahmanl Anisur , Underwoodl Martin
Published: February 2011

Background: There are now several systematic reviews of RCTs testing self‐management for those with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Evidence for the effectiveness of self‐management interventions in chronic musculoskeletal pain is equivocal and it is not clear for which sub‐groups of patients SM is optimally effective.

Aims: To systematically review randomized controlled trials of self‐management for chronic musculoskeletal pain that reported predictors, i.e., ‘baseline factors that predict outcome independent of any treatment effect’; moderators, i.e., ‘baseline factors which predict benefit from a particular treatment’; or mediators i.e., ‘factors measured during treatment that impact on outcome’ of outcome.

Method: We searched relevant electronic databases. We assessed the evidence according to the methodological strengths of the studies. We did meta‐regression analyses for age and gender, as potential moderators.

Results: Although the methodological quality of primary trials was good, there were few relevant studies; most were compromised by lack of power for moderator and mediator analyses. We found strong evidence that self‐efficacy and depression at baseline predict outcome and strong evidence that pain catastrophizing and physical activity can mediate outcome from self‐management. There was insufficient data on moderators of treatment.

Conclusions: The current evidence suggests four factors that relate to outcome as predictors/mediators, but there is no evidence for effect moderators. Future studies of mediation and moderation should be designed with ‘a priori’ hypotheses and adequate statistical power.
Canine parvovirus type 2c infection in a kitten associated with intracranial abscess and convulsions
Authors: Morton Carolyn M. , Grant Debbie , Johnston Laura , Letellier Ingrid M. , Narbe Ruediger
Published: February 2011

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and palatability of meloxicam 0.5 mg/ml oral suspension, compared to ketoprofen tablets in cats suffering from painful acute locomotor disorders. This single blinded, positively-controlled, randomised, multicentre trial involved 121 client owned cats. Cats received either meloxicam (0.5 mg/ml oral suspension) at 0.1 mg/kg on day 1 followed by 0.05 mg/kg q 24 h on days 2–5, or ketoprofen 5 mg tablets at 1.0 mg/kg q 24 h for 5 days. The efficacy of the two treatments was assessed subjectively by clinicians on day 6 using a clinical sum score (CSS). Palatability and accuracy of dosing were also assessed. The baseline CSS was not significantly different between the groups, and after 5 days of treatment the CSS had decreased to a similar extent, reflecting a reduction in pain. There were no significant differences between the CSS of each group at day 6. Both treatments were well tolerated. Meloxicam was significantly more palatable than ketoprofen, and allowed for more accurate dosing. Meloxicam and ketoprofen are a safe and efficacious treatment for acute locomotor disorders in cats. Meloxicam (Metacam) may be associated with superior compliance in clinical practice due to the higher palatability, which results in better ease of administration.
Assay of two 10% (w/v) fipronil spot-on formulations against feline infestations with Ctenocephalides felis
Authors: Cadiergues Marie-Christine , Bonneau Stéphane G. , Fourier Josephus J.
Published: February 2011

A new fipronil-based spot-on formulation was evaluated against experimental flea infestations in cats in two studies. In both studies, eight cats served as negative controls (groups 1 and 4); on day 0, eight cats were treated with a 10% w/v fipronil-based spot-on solution (Effipro Spot-on, 0.5 ml per cat, groups 2 and 5) and eight cats served as positive controls (Frontline Spot-on, 0.5 ml per cat, groups 3 and 6). Each cat was infested on day − 1 with 50 fleas (study 1) and weekly (day 7–day 56) with 100 fleas (study 2). Geometric mean flea counts obtained 48 h after the treatment or each re-infestation were reduced by 99.0 and 98.3% in groups 2 and 3, respectively, on day 2, compared to the negative control group. Cats were protected from re-infestations with an efficacy >99% for 58 days in group 5 and for 37 days in group 6.
Feline intracranial meningioma with skull erosion and tumour extension into an area of skull hyperostosis
Authors: Gutierrez-Quintana Rodrigo , Gunn-Moore Danièlle A. , Lamm Catherine G. , Penderis Jacques
Published: February 2011

Skull hyperostosis is a frequently recognised feature of meningioma in feline and human patients, occurring at a frequency of around 4.5% of human cases. Evidence of osteolysis with extension of meningioma into, and in some cases through, the region of skull hyperostosis is much less commonly described in human patients. Here we present a 12-year-old cat with marked skull hyperostosis secondary to an intracranial meningioma, with magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography evidence of tumour extension into the skull, centrally within the region of hyperostosis. Only a thin layer of bone was remaining between the mass and the extracranial region. Surgical resection of the region of skull demonstrating tumour invasion and the underlying mass resulted in good resolution of clinical signs and no post-surgical recurrence of meningioma within the 5 months follow-up period. Histopathological examination confirmed the mass to be fibroblastic meningioma.
Estradiol upregulates calcineurin expression via overexpression of estrogen receptor alpha gene in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lin Hui‐Li , Yen Jeng‐Hsien , Chiou Shi‐Shin , Tsai Wen‐Chan , Ou Tsan‐Teng , Wu Cheng‐Chin , Liu Hong‐Wen
Published: February 2011

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease primarily affecting women (9:1 compared with men). To investigate the influence of female sex hormone estrogen on the development of female‐biased lupus, we compared the expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) gene and protein levels as well as expression of T‐cell activation gene calcineurin in response to estrogen in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) from SLE patients and normal controls. PBLs were isolated from 20 female SLE patients and 6 normal female controls. The amount of ERα protein in PBL was measured by flow cytometry. The expression of ERα and calcineurin messenger RNA was measured by semi‐quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. Calcineurin phosphatase activity was measured by calcineurin assay kit. The expression of ERα messenger RNA and ERα protein was significantly increased (p = 0.001 and p = 0.023, respectively) in PBL from SLE patients compared with that from normal controls. In addition, the basal calcineurin in PBL from SLE patients was significantly higher (p = 0.000) than that from normal controls, and estrogen‐induced expression of calcineurin was increased (p = 0.007) in PBL from SLE patients compared with that from normal controls, a 3.15‐fold increase. This increase was inhibited by the ERα antagonism ICI 182,780. The effects of ER antagonism were also found in calcineurin activity. These data suggest that overexpression of ERα gene and enhanced activation of calcineurin in response to estrogen in PBL may contribute to the pathogenesis of female dominant in SLE.
The view from city hall: Local perceptions of intergovernmental fiscal relations in the Czech Republic
Authors: Smith Scott M. , Bryson Phillip J. , Cornia Gary C.
Published: February 2011

This article analyzes perceptions of inter-governmental fiscal relations as held by local officials of the Czech Republic. The field study probes local perceptions of progress toward fiscal decentralization in the Czech Republic. A statistical analysis is based on a scaling of cities according to size and according to a generalized, multi-part measure of fiscal autonomy. This measure is effective in discriminating high and low autonomy cities by size, types of expenditures, and funding sources. Cities of diverse sizes are divided into groups reflecting perceptions of greater or lesser autonomy. The implications of the findings are discussed.
China in Darfur: humanitarian rule-maker or rule-taker?
Authors: LEE PAK K. , CHAN GERALD , CHAN LAI-HA
Published: March 2011

Most people hold that in its quest for natural resources abroad, China shields rogue states with egregious human-rights record from international opprobrium and sanctions. Its political support for Sudan is a case in point. By examining Chinese perspectives on humanitarian intervention and national sovereignty, this article first argues that Beijing's interests are so multiple and complex that concern about the implications of humanitarian intervention for national integration is more crucial than oil in determining its policy towards Sudan. Paradoxically it asserts that China, a non-democratic country, is more influential than liberal democratic states in making the rules of humanitarian intervention in Darfur because of a lack of political will in the West. In addition, there are early signs that China intends to utilise its newfound power to remake international rules regarding territorial sovereignty. Further development is likely to be shaped by its interactions with the United States.
Writing in the university: education, knowledge and reputation
Authors: Hyland Ken
Published: March 2011

This paper challenges the widespread view that writing is somehow peripheral to the more serious aspects of university life – doing research and teaching students. It argues that universities areaboutwriting and that specialist forms of academic literacy are at the heart of everything we do: central to constructing knowledge, educating students and negotiating a professional academic career. Seeing literacy as embedded in the beliefs and practices of individual disciplines, instead of a generic skill that students have failed to develop at school, helps explain the difficulties both students and academics have in controlling the conventions of disciplinary discourses. Ultimately, and in an important sense, we are what we write, and we need to understand the distinctive ways our disciplines have of addressing colleagues and presenting arguments, as it is through language that academics and students conceptualise their subjects and argue their claims persuasively.
Midinfrared surface plasmon sensor based on a substrateless metal mesh
Authors: Limaj O. , Lupi S. , Mattioli F. , Leoni R. , Ortolani M.
Published: March 2011

A midinfrared mass sensor based on high quality factor surface plasmon modes was designed, fabricated, and tested by infrared spectroscopy for the detection of nanometric layers of dielectric materials. Substrate removal below a metal mesh with period of 2 μm results in the coupling between degenerate surface plasmon modes on the two surfaces, resulting in a quality factor up to 33 for the antisymmetric mode. The presented substrateless metal mesh integrates mass sensing capability together with midinfrared spectroscopy, and is therefore of potential interest for substance-selective environmental and biomedical sensing applications
Interlaced phase stepping in phase-contrast x-ray tomography
Authors: Zanette I. , Bech M. , Pfeiffer F. , Weitkamp T.
Published: March 2011

We report on an interlaced acquisition scheme in grating-based x-ray phase-contrast tomography in which different viewing angles are used to retrieve a single differential phase projection. This interlaced acquisition scheme is particularly beneficial for region-of-interest tomography since it substantially reduces the artifacts caused by the external region and can eliminate the need for stop-and-go motion of the tomography rotation axis. In this letter, the higher accuracy of the region-of-interest phase reconstructions obtained with the interlaced approach is demonstrated by numerical simulation and experimental results.
Charge fluctuations for particles on a surface exposed to plasma
Authors: Sheridan T. E. , Hayes A.
Published: March 2011

We develop a stochastic model for the charge fluctuations on a microscopic dust particle resting on a surface exposed to plasma. We find in steady state that the fluctuations are normally distributed with a standard deviation that is proportional to (CTe)1/2, where C is the particle-surface capacitance and Te is the plasma electron temperature. The time for an initially uncharged ensemble of particles to reach the steady state distribution is directly proportional to CTe.
Climate change risks for African agriculture
Authors: Müller Christoph , Cramer Wolfgang , Hare William L. , Lotze-Campen Hermann
Published: March 2011

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessment of major risks for African agriculture and food security caused by climate change during coming decades is confirmed by a review of more recent climate change impact assessments (14 quantitative, six qualitative). Projected impacts relative to current production levels range from −100% to +168% in econometric, from −84% to +62% in process-based, and from −57% to +30% in statistical assessments. Despite large uncertainty, there are several robust conclusions from published literature for policy makers and research agendas: agriculture everywhere in Africa runs some risk to be negatively affected by climate change; existing cropping systems and infrastructure will have to change to meet future demand. With respect to growing population and the threat of negative climate change impacts, science will now have to show if and how agricultural production in Africa can be significantly improved.
Asparagine repeat function in a
Plasmodium falciparum
protein assessed via a regulatable fluorescent affinity tag
Authors: Muralidharan Vasant , Oksman Anna , Iwamoto Mari , Wandless Thomas J. , Goldberg Daniel E.
Published: March 2011

One in four proteins in
Plasmodium falciparum
contains asparagine repeats. We probed the function of one such 28-residue asparagine repeat present in the
P. falciparum
proteasome lid subunit 6, Rpn6. To aid our efforts, we developed a regulatable, fluorescent affinity (RFA) tag that allows cellular localization, manipulation of cellular levels, and affinity isolation of a chosen protein in
P. falciparum
. The tag comprises a degradation domain derived from
Escherichia coli
dihydrofolate reductase together with GFP. The expression of RFA-tagged proteins is regulated by the simple folate analog trimethoprim (TMP). Parasite lines were generated in which full-length Rpn6 and an asparagine repeat-deletion mutant of Rpn6 were fused to the RFA tag. The knockdown of Rpn6 upon removal of TMP revealed that this protein is essential for ubiquitinated protein degradation and for parasite survival, but the asparagine repeat is dispensable for protein expression, stability, and function. The data point to a genomic mechanism for repeat perpetuation rather than a positive cellular role. The RFA tag should facilitate study of the role of essential genes in parasite biology.
MARITAL STATUS, NATION MARITAL STATUS COMPOSITION, AND SELF-ASSESSED HEALTH
Authors: Huijts Tim , Kraaykamp Gerbert
Published: March 2011

This study examines to what extent the often found association between marital status and self-assessed health is influenced by the marital composition of the country people live in. Four hypotheses explaining why the national marital status composition may be influential are derived and tested. Whereas earlier research in this field solely focused on divorce rates, this study includes six different indicators of the national marital status composition to provide a comprehensive test of our expectations. We employ data on 29 European countries (European Social Survey 2002, 2004, and 2006, N=97,797). Multilevel regression analyses demonstrate that both the strength of the relationship between marital status and health, and which unmarried group is most disadvantaged, vary across European countries. Living in a country with a high proportion of married people appears to be beneficial to the health of never married persons, but detrimental for widowed people. Additionally, our findings contradict the argument that divorced, widowed, and never married persons may be best off when living in countries with high proportions of people who are in the same situation. Finally, our results show that the never married are worst off in countries with a high proportion of cohabitants. This may reflect stronger health selectivity into cohabitation in countries where cohabitation is more common. We conclude that the ways through which the marital status composition influences the association between marital status and health appear to be complex and highly dependent on the exact marital status groups that are examined.
Translation of myelin basic protein mRNA in oligodendrocytes is regulated by integrin activation and hnRNP-K
Authors: Laursen Lisbeth S. , Chan Colin W. , ffrench-Constant Charles
Published: March 2011

Myelination in the central nervous system provides a unique example of how cells establish asymmetry. The myelinating cell, the oligodendrocyte, extends processes to and wraps multiple axons of different diameter, keeping the number of wraps proportional to the axon diameter. Local regulation of protein synthesis represents one mechanism used to control the different requirements for myelin sheath at each axo–glia interaction. Prior work has established that β1-integrins are involved in the axoglial interactions that initiate myelination. Here, we show that integrin activation regulates translation of a key sheath protein, myelin basic protein (MBP), by reversing the inhibitory effect of the mRNA 3′UTR. During oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination α6β1-integrin interacts with hnRNP-K, an mRNA-binding protein, which binds to MBP mRNA and translocates from the nucleus to the myelin sheath. Furthermore, knockdown of hnRNP-K inhibits MBP protein synthesis during myelination. Together, these results identify a novel pathway by which axoglial adhesion molecules coordinate MBP synthesis with myelin sheath formation.
hERG potassium channel gating is mediated by N- and C-terminal region interactions
Authors: Gustina Ahleah S. , Trudeau Matthew C.
Published: March 2011

Human ether-á-go-go–related gene (hERG) potassium channels have voltage-dependent closing (deactivation) kinetics that are unusually slow. A Per-Arnt-Sim (PAS) domain in the cytoplasmic N-terminal region of hERG regulates slow deactivation by making a direct interaction with another part of the hERG channel. The mechanism for slow deactivation is unclear, however, because the other regions of the channel that participate in regulation of deactivation are not known. To identify other functional determinants of slow deactivation, we generated hERG channels with deletions of the cytoplasmic C-terminal regions. We report that hERG channels with deletions of the cyclic nucleotide–binding domain (CNBD) had accelerated deactivation kinetics that were similar to those seen in hERG channels lacking the PAS domain. Channels with dual deletions of the PAS domain and the CNBD did not show further acceleration in deactivation, indicating that the PAS domain and the CNBD regulate deactivation by a convergent mechanism. A recombinant PAS domain that we previously showed could directly regulate PAS domain–deleted channels did not regulate channels with dual deletions of the PAS domain and CNBD, suggesting that the PAS domain did not interact with CNBD-deleted channels. Biochemical protein interaction assays showed that glutathione S-transferase (GST)–PAS (but not GST) bound to a CNBD-containing fusion protein. Coexpression of PAS domain–deleted subunits (with intact C-terminal regions) and CNBD-deleted subunits (with intact N-terminal regions) resulted in channels with partially restored slow deactivation kinetics, suggesting regulatory intersubunit interactions between PAS domains and CNBDs. Together, these data suggest that the mechanism for regulation of slow deactivation in hERG channels is an interaction between the N-terminal PAS domain and the C-terminal CNBD.
Angular-resolved energy flux measurements of a dc- and HIPIMS-powered rotating cylindrical magnetron in reactive and non-reactive atmosphere
Authors: Leroy W P , Konstantinidis S , Mahieu S , Snyders R , Depla D
Published: March 2011

A rotating cylindrical magnetron equipped with a titanium target was sputtered in dc and in HIPIMS mode, both in metallic and in the oxide regime. For all sputter modes, the same process conditions and the same average sputtering power of 300 W were used. An angular-resolved study was performed, 90° around the rotating cylindrical magnetron, which obtained the total energy flux arriving at the substrate. Furthermore, the energy flux per adparticle was calculated by measuring the deposition rate for all sputter modes and regimes. There is only a small difference in total arriving energy flux between the dc mode and the HIPIMS mode. A maximum arriving energy flux of ca 0.26 mW cm−2 was measured, when normalized to the sputtering power. Concerning the deposition rate, up to a 75% decrease was found from dc to HIPIMS mode. Furthermore, the emission and the transport of the particles have a similar angular profile for all sputter modes. Among the HIPIMS modes, a decrease in deposition rate was measured with increasing pulse length. Therefore, the energy which arrives per adparticle is the highest for the HIPIMS modes. A difference in the angular shape of the energy per arriving adparticle is noticed between the dc and the HIPIMS modes. The dc mode has a maximum arriving energy per adparticle at around 50°, while this is at 60° for the HIPIMS mode.
Effect of interphase on effective permittivity of composites
Authors: Liu Xiangxuan , Wu Youpeng , Wang Xuanjun , Li Rong , Zhang Zeyang
Published: March 2011

A unique model for predicting the effective permittivity of a filler/polymer composite system with an interphase is presented. In order to take into account the interactions between the filler and the matrix as well as filler–filler overlapping, a microscopic modification is introduced into the interphase volume fraction as a function of filler concentration. The proposed model shows that the effective permittivity relies on the volume fractions of the filler phase, the matrix phase and the interphase region as well as the permittivity of each phase. This model also provides a means to determine the volume and permittivity of the interphase in a composite by fitting the experimental data. Based on the present model, the effects of filler concentration, filler size, volume and permittivity of the interphase region on the effective permittivity of the composite are investigated. The theoretical results of the proposed model on filler/polymer composites are in agreement with experimental data.
STOCHSIMGPU: parallel stochastic simulation for the Systems Biology Toolbox 2 for MATLAB
Authors: Klingbeil Guido , Erban Radek , Giles Mike , Maini Philip K.
Published: February 2011

Motivation: The importance of stochasticity in biological systems is becoming increasingly recognized and the computational cost of biologically realistic stochastic simulations urgently requires development of efficient software. We present a new software tool STOCHSIMGPU that exploits graphics processing units (GPUs) for parallel stochastic simulations of biological/chemical reaction systems and show that significant gains in efficiency can be made. It is integrated into MATLAB and works with the Systems Biology Toolbox 2 (SBTOOLBOX2) for MATLAB.

Results: The GPU-based parallel implementation of the Gillespie stochastic simulation algorithm (SSA), the logarithmic direct method (LDM) and the next reaction method (NRM) is approximately 85 times faster than the sequential implementation of the NRM on a central processing unit (CPU). Using our software does not require any changes to the user's models, since it acts as a direct replacement of the stochastic simulation software of the SBTOOLBOX2.

Availability: The software is open source under the GPL v3 and available at http://www.maths.ox.ac.uk/cmb/STOCHSIMGPU. The web site also contains supplementary information.

Contact:  klingbeil@maths.ox.ac.uk

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Automatically identifying and annotating mouse embryo gene expression patterns
Authors: Han Liangxiu , van Hemert Jano I. , Baldock Richard A.
Published: February 2011

Motivation: Deciphering the regulatory and developmental mechanisms for multicellular organisms requires detailed knowledge of gene interactions and gene expressions. The availability of large datasets with both spatial and ontological annotation of the spatio-temporal patterns of gene expression in mouse embryo provides a powerful resource to discover the biological function of embryo organization. Ontological annotation of gene expressions consists of labelling images with terms from the anatomy ontology for mouse development. If the spatial genes of an anatomical component are expressed in an image, the image is then tagged with a term of that anatomical component. The current annotation is done manually by domain experts, which is both time consuming and costly. In addition, the level of detail is variable, and inevitably errors arise from the tedious nature of the task. In this article, we present a new method to automatically identify and annotate gene expression patterns in the mouse embryo with anatomical terms.

Results: The method takes images from in situ hybridization studies and the ontology for the developing mouse embryo, it then combines machine learning and image processing techniques to produce classifiers that automatically identify and annotate gene expression patterns in these images. We evaluate our method on image data from the EURExpress study, where we use it to automatically classify nine anatomical terms: humerus, handplate, fibula, tibia, femur, ribs, petrous part, scapula and head mesenchyme. The accuracy of our method lies between 70% and 80% with few exceptions. We show that other known methods have lower classification performance than ours. We have investigated the images misclassified by our method and found several cases where the original annotation was not correct. This shows our method is robust against this kind of noise.

Availability: The annotation result and the experimental dataset in the article can be freely accessed at http://www2.docm.mmu.ac.uk/STAFF/L.Han/geneannotation/.

Contact:  l.han@mmu.ac.uk

Supplementary Information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
aCGH.Spline—an R package for aCGH dye bias normalization
Authors: Fitzgerald Tomas W. , Larcombe Lee D. , Le Scouarnec Solena , Clayton Stephen , Rajan Diana , Carter Nigel P. , Redon Richard
Published: February 2011

Motivation: The careful normalization of array-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) data is of critical importance for the accurate detection of copy number changes. The difference in labelling affinity between the two fluorophores used in aCGH—usually Cy5 and Cy3—can be observed as a bias within the intensity distributions. If left unchecked, this bias is likely to skew data interpretation during downstream analysis and lead to an increased number of false discoveries.

Results: In this study, we have developed aCGH.Spline, a natural cubic spline interpolation method followed by linear interpolation of outlier values, which is able to remove a large portion of the dye bias from large aCGH datasets in a quick and efficient manner.

Conclusions: We have shown that removing this bias and reducing the experimental noise has a strong positive impact on the ability to detect accurately both copy number variation (CNV) and copy number alterations (CNA).

Contact:  l.larcombe@cranfield.ac.uk; tf2@sanger.ac.uk

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Composition and Sensory Evaluation of Popcorn Flake Polymorphisms for a Select Butterfly‐Type Hybrid
Authors: Sweley Jess C. , Rose Devin J. , Jackson David S.
Published: March 2011

The objective of this study was to identify and characterize different popped popcorn flake shapes, or polymorphisms, arising from a yellow butterfly popcorn hybrid (YP‐213), and then to determine the impact of popcorn flake shape on composition and sensory characteristics. Kernels were popped using a microwave oven and visually sorted into three different polymorphisms depending on whether the appendages were expanded unilaterally, bilaterally, or multilaterally. When popped, 9.0 ± 3.1%, 71.2 ± 5.9%, and 12.3 ± 3.8% of kernels were expanded unilaterally, bilaterally, and multilaterally, respectively, while 7.6 ± 1.4% of kernels remained unpopped. Expansion volumes for unilaterally, bilaterally, and multilaterally expanded polymorphisms were 28.6 ± 3.84, 43.0 ± 0.84, and 53.5 ± 2.5 cm3/g, respectively. Unilateral popcorn flakes retained the most fat, saturated fat, and sodium, while multilaterally expanded flakes had the highest levels of protein, total carbohydrate, and popcorn‐like aromatic pyrazines. Sensory evaluation revealed significant differences among polymorphisms for flavor and texture attributes, with the unilaterally expanded polymorphism receiving the highest overall product liking. These data show that different popcorn flake polymorphisms produced from a single hybrid of popcorn affect sensory and compositional profiles. More research is necessary to elucidate the factors that affect popcorn flake polymorphisms and support development of new varieties or techniques to produce the most desirable microwave popcorn.
Monitoring rFVIIa 90 μg kg−1 dosing in haemophiliacs: comparing laboratory response using various whole blood assays over 6 h
Authors: BROPHY D. F. , MARTIN E. J. , CHRISTIAN BARRETT J. , NOLTE M. E. , KUHN J. G. , GERK P. M. , CARR M. E. , PELZER H. , AGERSØ H. , EZBAN M. , HEDNER U.
Published: March 2011

Summary.  Recombinant FVIIa is a haemostatic agent administered to patients with severe FVIII or FIX deficiency with inhibitors. Although rFVIIa is effective at stopping bleeding, a reliable assay to monitor its effect is lacking. To characterize the pharmacokinetics and global coagulation effects of rFVIIa for 6 h following a IV dose of 90 μg kg−1. Ten non‐bleeding subjects with severe FVIII or FIX deficiency were infused with a single‐dose of rFVIIa 90 μg kg−1 body weight and blood was collected before and at 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 6 h postdose. Global haemostasis was characterized throughout the study utilizing whole blood analyses (Hemodyne HAS, TEG, ROTEM). The clearance and half‐life of factor FVII:C was estimated as 39.0 ± 8.8 mL h−1 kg−1 and 2.1 ± 0.2 h respectively. There was good inter‐assay agreement with respect to clot initiation parameters (R, CT and FOT) and these parameters all fell to a mean of approximately 9 min following rFVIIa dosing. The platelet contractile force (PCF) and clot elastic modulus (CEM) were positively correlated to FVII:C (P < 0.0001), and these parameters were dynamic throughout the 6‐h period. The MA and MCF did not correlate to FVII:C nor did they significantly change during the study. Prothrombin F1 + 2 significantly increased following rFVIIa dosing (P < 0.001), but remained steady throughout the study. There was no change in D‐dimer concentrations over time. The FOT, R and CT characterized clot initiation following rFVIIa dosing. The PCF and CEM were correlated to FVII:C and characterized the dynamics of platelet function and clot strength over the rFVIIa dosing interval. The clinical significance of these findings needs additional study.
Healthcare experiences of women who have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection
Authors: East Leah , Jackson Debra , O’Brien Louise , Peters Kathleen
Published: March 2011

Aim.  This paper reports the healthcare experiences of women who have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection.

Background.  The incidence of sexually transmitted infections is increasing throughout the globe on an annual basis. To effectively curb this trend and reduce the spread of these infections, effective education and treatment is essential.

Design.  This study used a feminist approach.

Methods.  Ten women participated in this study. Interviews were conducted online and transcripts were thematically analysed.

Results.  Findings from this study revealed that the women generally characterised their healthcare experiences as negative. Some women perceived being negatively judged by healthcare professionals and felt they were not provided with sufficient information or support when diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection.

Conclusion.  This paper reveals how healthcare professionals have the ability to exacerbate the adversity felt by women diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection and how providing appropriate therapeutic care can assist young women who have been diagnosed with these types of infections.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nurses and other healthcare professionals can better serve patients by providing emotional and therapeutic support and information about the possible effects and long‐term sequelae of sexually transmitted infections. Further, by providing sufficient information and support, the negative effects of having a sexually transmitted infection can be reduced and women’s ability to cope with a sexually transmitted infection can be enhanced.
Activation of cerebral peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors γ (PPARγ) reduces neuronal damage in the substantia nigra after transient focal cerebral ischaemia in the rat
Authors: Zuhayra M. , Zhao Y. , von Forstner C. , Henze E. , Gohlke P. , Culman J. , Lützen U.
Published: March 2011

M. Zuhayra, Y. Zhao, C. von Forstner, E. Henze, P. Gohlke, J. Culman and U. Lützen (2011) Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology37, 738–752

Activation of cerebral peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors γ (PPARγ) reduces neuronal damage in the substantia nigra after transient focal cerebral ischaemia in the rat

Aim: The function of brain (neuronal) peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor(s) γ (PPARγ) in the delayed degeneration and loss of neurones in the substantia nigra (SN) was studied in rats after transient occlusion of the middle cerebral artery (MCAO). Methods: The PPARγ agonist, pioglitazone, or vehicle was infused intracerebroventricularly over a 5‐day period before, during and 5 days after MCAO (90 min). The neuronal degeneration in the SN pars reticularis (SNr) and pars compacta (SNc), the analysis of the number of tyrosine hydroxylase‐immunoreactive (TH‐IR) neurones and the expression of the PPARγ in these neurones were studied by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. The effects of PPARγ activation on excitotoxic and oxidative neuronal damage induced by glutamate and 6‐hydroxydopamine were investigated in primary cortical neurones expressing PPARγ. Results: Pioglitazone reduced the total and striatal infarct size, neuronal degeneration in both parts of the ipsilateral SN, the loss of TH‐IR neurones in the SNc and increased the number of PPARγ‐positive TH‐IR neurones. Pioglitazone protected primary cortical neurones against oxidative and excitotoxic damage, prevented the loss of neurites and supported the formation of synaptic networks in neurones exposed to glutamate or 6‐hydroxydopamine by a PPARγ‐dependent mechanism. Conclusions: Activation of cerebral PPARγ confers neuroprotection after ischaemic stroke by preventing both, neuronal damage within the peri‐infarct zone and delayed degeneration of neurones and neuronal death in areas remote from the site of ischaemic injury. Pioglitazone and other PPARγ agonists may be useful therapeutic agents to prevent progression of brain damage after cerebral ischaemia.