bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testosterone and prolactin increase carboxypeptidase‐D and nitric oxide levels to promote survival of prostate cancer cells
Authors: Thomas Lynn N. , Morehouse Timothy J. , Too Catherine K.L.
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND

Plasma‐membrane carboxypeptidase‐D (CPD) releases arginine from extracellular substrates. Arginine is converted intracellularly to nitric oxide (NO). This study determined the effects of testosterone (T) and prolactin (PRL) on CPD expression, and the role(s) of CPD in NO production and survival of prostate cancer (PCa) cells.

METHODS

LNCaP cells were treated with T and/or PRL. CPD expression was measured. Regulation by T (low doses) was determined using transfected cells overexpressing 5α‐reductase type‐1 (5αR1), which converts T to the more potent dihydrotestosterone. The effects of siRNAs targeting CPD (siCPDs) on NO production, cell viability, and apoptosis were determined using DAF2‐DA, MTS, and Annexin‐V assays. The effects of PRL/T on CPD/NO levels in PC‐3, MDA‐PCa‐2b, and 22Rv1 cells were also evaluated.

RESULTS

In LNCaP cells, 10 nM T and 10 ng/ml PRL‐upregulated CPD mRNA/protein levels. In pTRE‐transfectants, 1 nM T‐upregulated CPD mRNA levels by ∼2‐fold over controls, whereas 0.1 nM T caused similar upregulation in pTRE‐5αR1‐transfectants. In LNCaP cells cultured in arginine‐free medium, addition of furylacryloyl‐Ala‐Arg (FAR; CPD substrate) increased NO levels. NO production, with FAR, was enhanced by PRL and/or T. siCPDs decreased NO production and cell viability, but increased apoptosis. QPCR analysis showed T/PRL‐upregulation of CPD in 22Rv1, MDA‐PCa‐2b, and PC‐3 cells. NO production was doubled by T/PRL in 22Rv1 cells, tripled by T in MDA‐PCa‐2b cells, and marginally increased by PRL in MDA‐PCa‐2b and PC‐3 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

T and PRL upregulate CPD and NO levels in PCa cells. CPD increases NO production to promote PCa cell survival. Prostate 72:450–460, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The impact of deep convection on the West African summer monsoon climate: a regional climate model sensitivity study
Authors: Sylla M. B. , Giorgi F. , Ruti P. M. , Calmanti S. , Dell'Aquila A.
Published: June 2011

The role of the representation of deep convection on key elements of the West African summer monsoon climate is addressed using the Regional Climate Model RegCM3. Two simulations in which a scheme of deep convection is activated and then turned off are performed and intercompared. Results show that the presence of deep convective heating along the intertropical convergence zone sustains increased lower‐level baroclinicity favoring intensification of the jet core and leading to a more realistic African easterly jet. In addition, although the isentropic potential vorticity (IPV) is lower when the convection scheme is switched off, African easterly waves (AEWs) are still generated and propagate westwards but they dissipate around the west coast. Substantial differences between the two simulations occur mainly at the 6‐ to 9‐day time‐scale over land, when much weaker activity is simulated in the absence of convection. This indicates that orographic friction and low‐level large‐scale moisture convergence, generating high values of latent heat and IPV, may play the dominant role in the genesis and growth of AEWs and that deep convection acts to strengthen the overall wave activity and to favor their west coast development. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
A pre‐operative approach of range of motion simulation and verification for femoroacetabular impingement
Authors: Chang Ta‐Cheng , Kang Hyosig , Arata Louis , Zhao Weizhao
Published: June 2011

Background

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is increasingly recognized as a potential cause of hip osteoarthritis. A system capable of pre‐operatively simulating hip range of motion (ROM) by given surface models from either healthy or FAI diseased bone is desirable.

Methods

An impingement detection system using bounding sphere hierarchies was first developed. Both precision and accuracy of the impingement detection system were verified by a custom‐designed phantom to imitate ball‐and‐socket hip movement. The impingement detection system was then implemented into the hip ROM simulation system to simulate the ROM of (1) healthy pelvis and femur, and (2) healthy pelvis and pathologic femur. The ROM simulation system was also verified by manipulating sawbones under the navigation of an optical tracking system.

Results

The impingement detection system achieved a distance error of 0.53 ± 0.06 mm and an angular error of 0.28 ± 0.03°. The impingement detection accuracies were 100%, 100%, and 96% in three different phantom orientations, respectively. The mean errors between simulated and verified ROM were 0.10 ± 1.39° for the ‘healthy pelvis and femur’ group, and − 2.38 ± 3.49° for the ‘healthy pelvis and pathologic femur’ group.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates a pre‐operative approach to virtually simulate and predict the functional hip ROM based on the given bone models. The impingement detection and ROM simulation systems developed may also be used for other orthopedic applications. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Training program for fundamental surgical skill in robotic laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Suh Irene , Mukherjee Mukul , Oleynikov Dmitry , Siu Ka‐Chun
Published: June 2011

Background

Although the use of robotic laparoscopic surgery has increased in popularity, training protocols for gaining proficiency in robotic surgical skills are not well established. The purpose of this study was to examine a fundamental training program that provides an effective approach to evaluate and improve robotic surgical skills performance using the da Vinci™ Surgical System.

Methods

Fifteen medical students without any robotic surgical experience were recruited. Participants went through a 4‐day training program for developing fundamental robotic surgical skills and received a retention test 1 day after the completion of training. Data analysis included time to task completion, average speed, total distance traveled and movement curvature of the instrument tips, and muscle activities of the participants' forearms. Surgical performance was graded by the modified Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills for robotic laparoscopic surgery. Finally, participants evaluated their own performance after each session through questionnaires.

Results

Significant training effects were shown for the time to task completion (p < 0.001), average speed (p < 0.01), and movement curvature (p < 0.05) for the test conditions. Significant learning effects were also found for EMG activation (p < 0.05). Participants reported more mastery, familiarity, and self‐confidence and less difficulty in performing fundamental tasks with the surgical robot in both post‐testing and retention sessions.

Conclusions

Our 4‐day training program comprising of a series of training tasks from fundamental to surgical skill levels was effective in improving surgical skills. Further studies are required to verify these findings with a longer period of retention. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does the apple always fall close to the tree? The geographical proximity choice of spin‐outs
Authors: Berchicci Luca , King Andrew , Tucci Christopher L.
Published: June 2011

Previous studies suggest that spin‐outs will locate in close proximity to the firm from which they spawn. As a result of this process, clusters of entrepreneurial activity tend to develop around a few strong parent firms. But do all spin‐outs really stay close to home? We demonstrate that spin‐out firms choose heterogeneous technological and market strategies, and we hypothesize that firms with more aggressive strategies have a greater need to maintain local relationships. We find supporting evidence of our theory by analyzing the location, technology, and market decisions of intraindustry spin‐outs in their first year in the disk drive industry. Copyright © 2011 Strategic Management Society.
Explaining growth paths of young technology‐based firms: structuring resource portfolios in different competitive environments
Authors: Clarysse Bart , Bruneel Johan , Wright Mike
Published: June 2011

We explore how environmental contingencies determine the way resources are accumulated in young technology‐based firms and argue that growth paths are critically shaped at the nexus between resource management and the competitive environment, defined along its most important dimensions, ‘stability’ and ‘complexity.’ We also build propositions about the way environmental conditions affect resource portfolio development or acquisition. We show how particular high‐growth paths result from structuring resource portfolios in accordance with environmental demands and provide insights into why, based on six case studies of young technology‐based high‐growth firms, involving 27 interviews, 121 press releases, 605 press articles, and archival data. Copyright © 2011 Strategic Management Society.
Effect of enzyme‐modified carboxymethyl starch as a fat replacer on the functional properties of sausages
Authors: Luo Zhigang , Gao Qunyu
Published: June 2011

Enzyme‐modified carboxymethyl starch (ECMS), carboxymethyl starch (CMS), and enzyme‐modified starch (ES) were prepared and used as fat replacers in low‐fat sausages. The effects of fat level (5, 10, and 20%) and three modified starches (ECMS, CMS, and ES) on energy, color, texture, and sensory characteristics of sausages were investigated. The addition of three modified starches in reduced‐fat sausages reduced total energy and redness, and increased the lightness of the products. Except adhesiveness, ECMS had no effect on any of the textural parameters of sausages, but CMS or ES lowered any of the textural parameters at their respective target fat levels. The 10% fat sausage with added ECMS was similar to the 20% fat sausage control for overall acceptability. The results indicated that the new multiplex modified starch‐ECMS could be used as a suitable fat replacer since it offset some of the changes caused by fat reduction.
Synthesis and evaluation of physicochemical properties of cross‐linked Phaseolus aconitifolius starch
Authors: Singh Akhilesh V. , Nath Lila K.
Published: June 2011

Highly substituted moth bean starch (MBS) phosphate ester was synthesized using POCl3 as cross‐linking reagent. Titrimetric and FT‐IR spectral analysis was used to characterize the substitution. The physicochemical properties of cross‐linked moth bean starch (CLMBS) were done by using X‐ray powder diffractometer (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and swelling study at various temperatures. The change in starch morphology was done using scanning electron micrograph (SEM), and found that it lost its crystallinity after cross‐linking. The results revealed that crystalline nature of native MBS was transformed into amorphous after cross‐linking. TGA report exhibited higher thermal stability, which make it suitable for various industrial applications. Swelling behavior showed high swelling at low temperatures (30 and 60°C) as compared to at high temperature (90°C).
Stratospheric temperature trends: our evolving understanding
Authors: Seidel Dian J. , Gillett Nathan P. , Lanzante John R. , Shine Keith P. , Thorne Peter W.
Published: June 2011

We review the scientific literature since the 1960s to examine the evolution of modeling tools and observations that have advanced understanding of global stratospheric temperature changes. Observations show overall cooling of the stratosphere during the period for which they are available (since the late 1950s and late 1970s from radiosondes and satellites, respectively), interrupted by episodes of warming associated with volcanic eruptions, and superimposed on variations associated with the solar cycle. There has been little global mean temperature change since about 1995. The temporal and vertical structure of these variations are reasonably well explained by models that include changes in greenhouse gases, ozone, volcanic aerosols, and solar output, although there are significant uncertainties in the temperature observations and regarding the nature and influence of past changes in stratospheric water vapor. As a companion to a recent WIREs review of tropospheric temperature trends, this article identifies areas of commonality and contrast between the tropospheric and stratospheric trend literature. For example, the increased attention over time to radiosonde and satellite data quality has contributed to better characterization of uncertainty in observed trends both in the troposphere and in the lower stratosphere, and has highlighted the relative deficiency of attention to observations in the middle and upper stratosphere. In contrast to the relatively unchanging expectations of surface and tropospheric warming primarily induced by greenhouse gas increases, stratospheric temperature change expectations have arisen from experiments with a wider variety of model types, showing more complex trend patterns associated with a greater diversity of forcing agents. WIREs Clim Change 2011 2 592–616 DOI: 10.1002/wcc.125

This article is categorized under:

Paleoclimates and Current Trends > Modern Climate Change
Do naturalistic enclosures provide suitable environments for zoo animals?
Authors: Fàbregas María C. , Guillén‐Salazar Federico , Garcés‐Narro Carlos
Published: June 2011

Zoo visitors perceive naturalistic enclosures (i.e. those attempting to replicate identifiable parts of the landscape of the species' habitat) as those that best satisfy the biological needs of the animals, and ensure therefore their welfare. However, the provision of a suitable environment with the resources that will allow the animals to satisfy their main biological needs in naturalistic enclosures has never been systematically explored; instead, it has been assumed. In this study we provide evidence that supports the general idea that naturalistic designs provide suitable environments for the animals. For that purpose, we analyzed 1,381 naturalistic and non‐naturalistic enclosures in 63 Spanish zoological parks. In order to assess the suitability of the environment provided within each enclosure, a number of aspects related to the animals' main biological requirements were analyzed. We found a relationship between naturalistic designs and the suitability of the environment for the species housed. Most naturalistic enclosures (77.8%) provided suitable environments for their inhabitants. Non‐naturalistic ones also had suitable environments, but in a lower percentage (39.7%). These results should be taken into account during zoo inspection and accreditation appointments, where enclosure suitability must be assessed in an accurate and fast manner. In this regard, a naturalistic design can be used as an adjunct indicator of enclosure suitability, but not exclusively, as not every naturalistic enclosure was suitable for the animals, neither as an indispensable one, given that near 40% of non‐naturalistic ones were appropriate for the species housed. Zoo Biol 31:362–373, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Zoo and aquarium webcams: an informed view
Authors: Dodson Gary , Murphy Cory
Published: June 2011

Providing webcams for public viewing is a relatively new but growing phenomenon among zoos and aquariums. Reasons for incorporating this programmatic feature are varied, and no guidelines exist to aid institutions considering webcam installations. Decision makers need to know how much effort the cameras require as well as how successful other zoos have found them to be. We evaluated existing webcams and provide an overview of their characteristics, including reliability. Quantitative evaluations provided by zoo/aquarium staff and by zoo members indicate generally positive perceptions of webcams, whereas staff acknowledge a notable level of effort required. Here, we strive to offer guidelines that will help institutions considering this venture. Zoo Biol 31:414–425, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Detection of dichloromethane with a bioluminescent (lux) bacterial bioreporter
Authors: Lopes Nicholas , Hawkins Shawn A , Jegier Patricia , Menn Fu-Min , Sayler Gary S , Ripp Steven
Published: June 2011

The focus of this research effort was to develop an autonomous, inducible, lux-based bioluminescent bioreporter for the real-time detection of dichloromethane. Dichloromethane (DCM), also known as methylene chloride, is a volatile organic compound and one of the most commonly used halogenated solvents in the U.S., with applications ranging from grease and paint stripping to aerosol propellants and pharmaceutical tablet coatings. Predictably, it is released into the environment where it contaminates air and water resources. Due to its classification as a probable human carcinogen, hepatic toxin, and central nervous system effector, DCM must be carefully monitored and controlled. Methods for DCM detection usually rely on analytical techniques such as solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and capillary gas chromatography or photoacoustic environmental monitors, all of which require trained personnel and/or expensive equipment. To complement conventional monitoring practices, we have created a bioreporter for the self-directed detection of DCM by taking advantage of the evolutionary adaptation of bacteria to recognize and metabolize chemical agents. This bioreporter, Methylobacterium extorquens DCMlux, was engineered to contain a bioluminescent luxCDABE gene cassette derived from Photorhabdus luminescens fused downstream to the dcm dehalogenase operon, which causes the organism to generate visible light when exposed to DCM. We have demonstrated detection limits down to 1.0 ppm under vapor phase exposures and 0.1 ppm under liquid phase exposures with response times of 2.3 and 1.3 h, respectively, and with specificity towards DCM under relevant industrial environmental monitoring conditions.
Urine analysis of glucose tetrasaccharide by HPLC; a useful marker for the investigation of patients with Pompe and other glycogen storage diseases
Authors: Manwaring Victoria , Prunty Helen , Bainbridge Katie , Burke Derek , Finnegan Niamh , Franses Rebecca , Lam Amanda , Vellodi Ashok , Heales Simon
Published: June 2011

A high performance liquid chromatography method, adapted from an established urinary sugars method, has been developed for the analysis of a tetraglucose oligomer (Glc4) in urine. Pompe disease results from defects in the activity of lysosomal acid α‐glucosidase (GAA) with patients typically excreting increased amounts of Glc4. Rapid determination of GAA in dried blood spots is now possible. However, enzymatic analysis is unable to discriminate between patients with Pompe disease and those individuals harbouring pseudo deficiency mutations. This method was able to quantify Glc4 levels in all patients analysed with an established diagnosis of Pompe disease, and all controls analysed had Glc4 levels below the limit of detection for this method. Importantly the method was able to discriminate between an individual known to harbour a pseudo Pompe mutation and patients with Pompe disease, providing a useful supporting test to enzymatic analysis. Sequential measurement of urinary Glc4 has been proposed to monitor the effects of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). We observed a clear decrease in Glc4 levels following commencement of treatment in three patients studied. Additionally, raised levels of Glc4 were observed in patients with glycogen storage disease (GSD) type Ia and type III suggesting that this method may have applications in other GSDs.
Leptospirosis is Associated with Markedly Increased Triglycerides and Small Dense Low‐Density Lipoprotein and Decreased High‐Density Lipoprotein
Authors: Gazi Irene F. , Apostolou Fotini A. , Liberopoulos Evangelos N. , Filippatos Theodosios D. , Tellis Constantinos C. , Elisaf Moses S. , Tselepis Alexandros D.
Published: June 2011

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of acute infection with Leptospira interrogans on lipids, lipoproteins and associated enzymes. Fasting serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), triglycerides (TG), apolipoproteins (apo) A‐Ι, B, E, C‐II, C‐III and lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] were determined in patients with Leptospirosis on diagnosis and 4 months after recovery as well as in age‐ and sex‐matched controls. Activities of cholesteryl‐ester transfer protein (CETP) and lipoprotein‐associated phospholipase A2 (Lp‐PLA2) as well as paraoxonase 1 (PON1) hydrolysing activity and levels of cytokines were determined. LDL subclass analysis was performed with Lipoprint LDL System. Eleven patients (10 men, mean age 49.5 ± 8.4 years) and 11 controls were included. TC, HDL‐C, LDL‐C, apoA‐I, apoB and Lp(a) levels were lower at baseline, whereas TG and apoE levels were elevated compared with 4 months later. At baseline, higher levels of cytokines and cholesterol concentration of small dense LDL particles (sdLDL‐C) were noticed, whereas LDL particle size was lower compared with follow‐up. Activities of plasma Lp‐PLA2 and HDL‐associated Lp‐PLA2 were lower at baseline compared with post treatment values, whereas PON1 activity was similar at baseline and 4 months later. 4 months after recovery, the levels of all lipid parameters evaluated did not differ compared with controls, except for HDL‐C which remained lower. PON1 activity both at baseline and 4 months later was lower in patients compared with controls. Leptospirosis is associated with atherogenic changes of lipids, lipoproteins and associated enzymes.
Optimization of Enzymatic Synthesis of Cetyl 2‐Ethylhexanoate by Novozym® 435
Authors: Chen Hsiao Ching , Kuo Chia‐Hung , Chen Hsin Hung , Liu Yung‐Chuan , Shieh Chwen Jen
Published: June 2011

Waxes are esters obtained from long‐chain fatty acids and long‐chain alcohols which are biodegradable, biocompatible and nontoxic. Seafowl feather oil is a natural wax ester that exists on seafowl feathers. Cetyl 2‐ethylhexanoate is the major ingredient of seafowl feather oil. Cetyl 2‐ethylhexanoate is widely used in cosmetics as a base oil because of its lubricity, moisture retention and non‐toxic properties. An optimal production of cetyl 2‐ethylhexanoate by direct esterification of cetyl alcohol with 2‐ethylhexanoic acid was developed using an immobilized lipase (Novozym® 435) as a catalyst in n‐hexane. Response surface methodology (RSM) and 5‐level‐4‐factor central composite rotatable design (CCRD) were employed to evaluate the effects of reaction time, reaction temperature, substrate molar ratio, and enzyme amount on the yield of cetyl 2‐ethylhexanoate. The results show that reaction time, reaction temperature, substrate molar ratio, and enzyme amount have significant effects on the yield of the esterification reaction. On the basis of ridge‐max analysis, the optimum conditions were as follows: a reaction time of 2.65 days, a reaction temperature of 56.18 °C, a substrate molar ratio of 2.55:1, and an enzyme amount of 251.39%. The predicted and experimental values of molar conversion were 91.95 and 89.75 ± 1.06%, respectively.
Transcranial direct current stimulation for the outpatient treatment of poor-responder depressed patients
Authors: Dell’Osso B. , Zanoni S. , Ferrucci R. , Vergari M. , Castellano F. , D’Urso N. , Dobrea C. , Benatti B. , Arici C. , Priori A. , Altamura A.C.
Published: June 2011

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a selective, painless, brain stimulation technique that allows the electric stimulation of specific cortical regions. TDCS has been recently used as investigational intervention for major depression and treatment resistant depression (TRD) with encouraging results. The present study was aimed to investigate the efficacy and tolerability of tDCS in major depressives with poor response to pharmacological treatment. Twenty-three depressed patients, with a diagnosis of major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder, were treated with augmentative tDCS for 5 days, two sessions per day in a blind-rater trial. The course of depressive symptoms was analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA for HAM-D and MADRS total scores. A qualitative analysis on the basis of the HAM-D response was performed as well. Both analyses were conducted at three time-points: T0 (baseline), T1 (endpoint tDCS) and T2 (end of the first week of follow-up). All patients completed the trial without relevant side-effects. A significant reduction of HAM-D and MADRS total scores was observed during the study (P<0.0001). Treatment response (endpoint HAM-D reduction ≥50%) was obtained by four patients (17.4%) at T1 and by seven patients (30.4%) at T2 and remission (endpoint HAM-D<8) by three patients (13.0%) at T1 and by four subjects (17.4%) at T2. Present findings support the efficacy and good tolerability of tDCS in the acute treatment of patients with TRD with clinical benefit being progressive and extended to the first week of follow-up. Further sham-controlled trials with longer follow-up are needed to confirm present results.
The Cambridge Companion to English Poets
Authors: Rawson Claude
Published: June 2011

This volume provides lively and authoritative introductions to twenty-nine of the most important British and Irish poets from Geoffrey Chaucer to Philip Larkin. The list includes, among others, Shakespeare, Donne, Milton, Wordsworth, Browning, Yeats and T. S. Eliot, and represents the tradition of English poetry at its best. Each contributor offers a new assessment of a single poet's achievement and importance, with readings of the most important poems. The essays, written by leading experts, are personal responses, written in clear, vivid language, free of academic jargon, and aim to inform, arouse interest, and deepen understanding.
Biomimetics and cilia propulsion
Authors: MAXEY MARTIN R.
Published: June 2011

Many swimming microorganisms are able to propel themselves by the organized beating motion of numerous short flagella or cilia attached to their body surface. For their small size and the inherently viscous nature of the motion, this mechanism is very effective and they can swim several body lengths per second. The quest has been to see if artificial cilia may be developed and if the strategy of cilia propulsion can be used in microfluidic devices to transport fluids in a localized and controllable manner. Babataheri et al. (J. Fluid Mech., this issue, vol. 678, 2011, pp. 5–13) explore the response of chains of small paramagnetic beads that are elastically bonded together to form artificial cilia. The chain or fleximag is tethered to the surface and driven by external magnetic fields, responding also to both fluid and elastic forces. A key observation from their experiments and model is that for a simple planar-forcing strategy there is a hidden symmetry that limits the net transport of fluid.
Estimated dietary intakes of flavonols, flavanones and flavones in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) 24 hour dietary recall cohort
Authors: Zamora-Ros Raul , Knaze Viktoria , Luján-Barroso Leila , Slimani Nadia , Romieu Isabelle , Fedirko Veronika , Santucci de Magistris Maria , Ericson Ulrica , Amiano Pilar , Trichopoulou Antonia , Dilis Vardis , Naska Androniki , Engeset Dagrun , Skeie Guri , Cassidy Aedin , Overvad Kim , Peeters Petra H. M. , María Huerta José , Sánchez María-José , Quirós J. Ramón , Sacerdote Carlotta , Grioni Sara , Tumino Rosario , Johansson Gerd , Johansson Ingegerd , Drake Isabel , Crowe Francesca L. , Barricarte Aurelio , Kaaks Rudolf , Teucher Birgit , Bas Bueno-de-Mesquita H. , van Rossum Caroline T. M. , Norat Teresa , Romaguera Dora , Vergnaud Anne-Claire , Tjønneland Anne , Halkjær Jytte , Clavel-Chapelon Françoise , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Touillaud Marina , Salvini Simonetta , Khaw Kay-Thee , Wareham Nicholas , Boeing Heiner , Förster Jana , Riboli Elio , González Carlos A.
Published: June 2011

Flavonols, flavanones and flavones (FLAV) are sub-classes of flavonoids that exert cardioprotective and anti-carcinogenic propertiesin vitroandin vivo. We aimed to estimate the FLAV dietary intake, their food sources and associated lifestyle factors in ten European countries participating in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study. FLAV intake and their food sources for 36 037 subjects, aged between 35 and 74 years, in twenty-seven study centres were obtained using standardised 24 h dietary recall software (EPIC-SOFT). Anad hocfood composition database on FLAV was compiled using data from US Department of Agriculture and Phenol-Explorer databases and was expanded using recipes, estimations and flavonoid retention factors in order to increase its correspondence with the 24 h dietary recall. Our results showed that the highest FLAV-consuming centre was the UK health-conscious group, with 130·9 and 97·0 mg/d for men and women, respectively. The lowest FLAV intakes were 36·8 mg/d in men from Umeå and 37·2 mg/d in women from Malmö (Sweden). The flavanone sub-class was the main contributor to the total FLAV intake ranging from 46·6 to 52·9 % depending on the region. Flavonols ranged from 38·5 to 47·3 % and flavones from 5·8 to 8·6 %. FLAV intake was higher in women, non-smokers, increased with level of education and physical activity. The major food sources were citrus fruits and citrus-based juices (especially for flavanones), tea, wine, other fruits and some vegetables. We concluded that the present study shows heterogeneity in intake of these three sub-classes of flavonoids across European regions and highlights differences by sex and other sociodemographic and lifestyle factors.
Population genetics ofSchistosoma haematobium:development of novel microsatellite markers and their application to schistosomiasis control in Mali
Authors: GOWER C. M. , GABRIELLI A. F. , SACKO M. , DEMBELÉ R. , GOLAN R. , EMERY A. M. , ROLLINSON D. , WEBSTER J. P.
Published: June 2011

The recent implementation of mass drug administration (MDA) for control of uro-genital schistosomiasis has identified an urgent need for molecular markers to both directly monitor the impact of MDA, for example to distinguish re-infections from uncleared infections, as well as understand aspects of parasite reproduction and gene flow which might predict evolutionary change, such as the development and spread of drug resistance. We report the development of a novel microsatellite tool-kit allowing, for the first time, robust genetic analysis of individualS. haematobiumlarvae collected directly from infected human hosts. We genotyped the parasite populations of 47 children from 2 schools in the Ségou region of Mali, the first microsatellite study of this highly neglected parasite. There was only limited evidence of population subdivision between individual children or between the two schools, suggesting that few barriers to gene flow exist in this population. Complex relationships between parasite reproductive success, infection intensity and host age and gender were identified. Older children and boys harboured more diverse infections, as measured by the number of unique adult genotypes present. Individual parasite genotypes had variable reproductive success both across hosts, a pre-requisite for evolutionary selection, and, phenotypically, in hosts of different ages and genders. These data serve as a baseline against which to measure the effect of treatment on parasite population genetics in this region of Mali, and the tools developed are suitable to further investigate this important pathogen, and its close relatives, throughout their range.
The Revolutionary Interpretation of the Analytic of Concepts
Authors: Grier Michelle
Published: June 2011

The interpretation of Kant's Critical philosophy as a version of traditional idealism has a long history. In spite of Kant's and his commentators’ various attempts to distinguish between traditional and transcendental idealism, his philosophy continues to be construed as committed (whether explicitly or implicitly and whether consistently or inconsistently) to various features usually associated with the traditional idealist project. As a result, most often, the accusation is that his Critical philosophy makes too strong metaphysical and epistemological claims.

In his The Revolutionary Kant, Graham Bird engages in a systematic and thorough evaluation of the traditionalist interpretation, as part of perhaps the most comprehensive and compelling defence of a revolutionary reading of Kant's thought. In the third part of this special issue, the exchanges between, on the one hand, Graham Bird and, on the other, Gary Banham, Gordon Brittan, Manfred Kuehn, Adrian Moore and Kenneth Westphal focus on specific aspects of Bird's interpretation of Kant's first Critique. More exactly, the emphasis is on specific aspects of Bird's interpretation of the Introduction, Analytic of Principles and Transcendental Dialectic of Kant's first Critique.

The second part of the special issue is devoted to discussions of particular topics in Bird's construal of the remaining significant parts of the first Critique, namely, of the Transcendental Aesthetic and the Analytic of Concepts. Written by Sorin Baiasu and Michelle Grier, these articles examine specific issues in these two remaining parts of the Critique, from the perspective of the debate between the traditionalist and revolutionary interpretation. The special issue begins with an Introduction by the guest co-editors. This provides a summary of the exchanges between Bird and his critics, with a particular focus on the debates stemming from the differences between traditional and revolutionary interpretations of Kant.
The Status of the Principles of the Analogies
Authors: Banham Gary
Published: June 2011

The interpretation of Kant's Critical philosophy as a version of traditional idealism has a long history. In spite of Kant's and his commentators’ various attempts to distinguish between traditional and transcendental idealism, his philosophy continues to be construed as committed (whether explicitly or implicitly and whether consistently or inconsistently) to various features usually associated with the traditional idealist project. As a result, most often, the accusation is that his Critical philosophy makes too strong metaphysical and epistemological claims.

In hisThe Revolutionary Kant, Graham Bird engages in a systematic and thorough evaluation of the traditionalist interpretation, as part of perhaps the most comprehensive and compelling defence of a revolutionary reading of Kant's thought. In the third part of this special issue, the exchanges between, on the one hand, Graham Bird and, on the other, Gary Banham, Gordon Brittan, Manfred Kuehn, Adrian Moore and Kenneth Westphal focus on specific aspects of Bird's interpretation of Kant's first Critique. More exactly, the emphasis is on specific aspects of Bird's interpretation of the Introduction, Analytic of Principles and Transcendental Dialectic of Kant's first Critique.

The second part of the special issue is devoted to discussions of particular topics in Bird's construal of the remaining significant parts of the first Critique, namely, of the Transcendental Aesthetic and the Analytic of Concepts. Written by Sorin Baiasu and Michelle Grier, these articles examine specific issues in these two remaining parts of the Critique, from the perspective of the debate between the traditionalist and revolutionary interpretation. The special issue begins with an Introduction by the guest co-editors. This provides a summary of the exchanges between Bird and his critics, with a particular focus on the debates stemming from the differences between traditional and revolutionary interpretations of Kant.
Graham Bird, The Revolutionary Kant: Introduction
Authors: Brittan Gordon
Published: June 2011

The interpretation of Kant's Critical philosophy as a version of traditional idealism has a long history. In spite of Kant's and his commentators’ various attempts to distinguish between traditional and transcendental idealism, his philosophy continues to be construed as committed (whether explicitly or implicitly and whether consistently or inconsistently) to various features usually associated with the traditional idealist project. As a result, most often, the accusation is that his Critical philosophy makes too strong metaphysical and epistemological claims.

In his The Revolutionary Kant, Graham Bird engages in a systematic and thorough evaluation of the traditionalist interpretation, as part of perhaps the most comprehensive and compelling defence of a revolutionary reading of Kant's thought. In the third part of this special issue, the exchanges between, on the one hand, Graham Bird and, on the other, Gary Banham, Gordon Brittan, Manfred Kuehn, Adrian Moore and Kenneth Westphal focus on specific aspects of Bird's interpretation of Kant's first Critique. More exactly, the emphasis is on specific aspects of Bird's interpretation of the Introduction, Analytic of Principles and Transcendental Dialectic of Kant's first Critique.

The second part of the special issue is devoted to discussions of particular topics in Bird's construal of the remaining significant parts of the first Critique, namely, of the Transcendental Aesthetic and the Analytic of Concepts. Written by Sorin Baiasu and Michelle Grier, these articles examine specific issues in these two remaining parts of the Critique, from the perspective of the debate between the traditionalist and revolutionary interpretation. The special issue begins with an Introduction by the guest co-editors. This provides a summary of the exchanges between Bird and his critics, with a particular focus on the debates stemming from the differences between traditional and revolutionary interpretations of Kant.
Comments on Graham Bird'sThe Revolutionary Kant
Authors: Westphal Kenneth R.
Published: June 2011

The interpretation of Kant's Critical philosophy as a version of traditional idealism has a long history. In spite of Kant's and his commentators’ various attempts to distinguish between traditional and transcendental idealism, his philosophy continues to be construed as committed (whether explicitly or implicitly and whether consistently or inconsistently) to various features usually associated with the traditional idealist project. As a result, most often, the accusation is that his Critical philosophy makes too strong metaphysical and epistemological claims.

In hisThe Revolutionary Kant, Graham Bird engages in a systematic and thorough evaluation of the traditionalist interpretation, as part of perhaps the most comprehensive and compelling defence of a revolutionary reading of Kant's thought. In the third part of this special issue, the exchanges between, on the one hand, Graham Bird and, on the other, Gary Banham, Gordon Brittan, Manfred Kuehn, Adrian Moore and Kenneth Westphal focus on specific aspects of Bird's interpretation of Kant's first Critique. More exactly, the emphasis is on specific aspects of Bird's interpretation of the Introduction, Analytic of Principles and Transcendental Dialectic of Kant's first Critique.

The second part of the special issue is devoted to discussions of particular topics in Bird's construal of the remaining significant parts of the first Critique, namely, of the Transcendental Aesthetic and the Analytic of Concepts. Written by Sorin Baiasu and Michelle Grier, these articles examine specific issues in these two remaining parts of the Critique, from the perspective of the debate between the traditionalist and revolutionary interpretation. The special issue begins with an Introduction by the guest co-editors. This provides a summary of the exchanges between Bird and his critics, with a particular focus on the debates stemming from the differences between traditional and revolutionary interpretations of Kant.
Replies to my Critics
Authors: Bird Graham
Published: June 2011

The interpretation of Kant's Critical philosophy as a version of traditional idealism has a long history. In spite of Kant's and his commentators’ various attempts to distinguish between traditional and transcendental idealism, his philosophy continues to be construed as committed (whether explicitly or implicitly and whether consistently or inconsistently) to various features usually associated with the traditional idealist project. As a result, most often, the accusation is that his Critical philosophy makes too strong metaphysical and epistemological claims.

In hisThe Revolutionary Kant, Graham Bird engages in a systematic and thorough evaluation of the traditionalist interpretation, as part of perhaps the most comprehensive and compelling defence of a revolutionary reading of Kant's thought. In the third part of this special issue, the exchanges between, on the one hand, Graham Bird and, on the other, Gary Banham, Gordon Brittan, Manfred Kuehn, Adrian Moore and Kenneth Westphal focus on specific aspects of Bird's interpretation of Kant's first Critique. More exactly, the emphasis is on specific aspects of Bird's interpretation of the Introduction, Analytic of Principles and Transcendental Dialectic of Kant's first Critique.

The second part of the special issue is devoted to discussions of particular topics in Bird's construal of the remaining significant parts of the first Critique, namely, of the Transcendental Aesthetic and the Analytic of Concepts. Written by Sorin Baiasu and Michelle Grier, these articles examine specific issues in these two remaining parts of the Critique, from the perspective of the debate between the traditionalist and revolutionary interpretation. The special issue begins with an Introduction by the guest co-editors. This provides a summary of the exchanges between Bird and his critics, with a particular focus on the debates stemming from the differences between traditional and revolutionary interpretations of Kant.
Multiscale modeling of chemotaxis in homogeneous porous media
Authors: Porter Mark L. , Valdés‐Parada Francisco J. , Wood Brian D.
Published: June 2011

We present a predictive, multiscale modeling framework for chemotaxis in porous media. This model results from volume averaging the governing equations for bacterial transport at the microscale and is expressed in terms of effective medium coefficients that are predicted from the solution of the associated closure problems. As a result, the averaged chemotactic velocity is an explicit function of the attractant concentration field and diffusivity, rather than an empirical effective chemotactic sensitivity coefficient. The model was validated by comparing the transverse bacterial concentration profiles with experimental measurements for Escherichia coli HCB1 in a T‐sensor. The averaged chemotactic velocity predicted by the model was found to be within the range of values reported in the literature. Reasonable agreement (approximately 10% mean absolute error) between theory and experiments was found for several flow rates. In order to assess the potential for decreasing the computational demands of the model, the macroscale domain was divided into subdomains for the coupling of bacterial transport to that of the attractant. Sensitivity analysis was performed regarding the number of subdomains chosen, and the results indicate that bacterial transport (as measured by concentration profiles) was not highly affected by this choice. Overall, these results suggest that the predictive, multiscale modeling framework is reliable for modeling chemotaxis in porous media when chemotactic transport is significant compared to convective transport.
Sellmeier and thermo-optic dispersion formulas for CdSiP2
Authors: Kato K. , Umemura N. , Petrov V.
Published: June 2011

High-accuracy Sellmeier and thermo-optic dispersion formulas for CdSiP2 that reproduce excellently the temperature-dependent phase-matching conditions for the Tm:YALO and Nd:YAG laser-pumped optical parametric oscillator (OPO) are presented.
Activation of erbium films for hydrogen storage
Authors: Brumbach Michael T. , Ohlhausen James A. , Zavadil Kevin R. , Snow Clark S. , Woicik Joseph C.
Published: June 2011

Hydriding of metals can be routinely performed at high temperature in a rich hydrogen atmosphere. Prior to the hydrogen loading process, a thermal activation procedure is required to promote facile hydrogen sorption into the metal. Despite the wide spread utilization of this activation procedure, little is known about the chemical and electronic changes that occur during activation and how this thermal pretreatment leads to increased rates of hydrogen uptake. This study utilized variable kinetic energy X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to interrogate the changes during in situ thermal annealing of erbium films, with results confirmed by time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry and low energy ion scattering. Activation can be identified by a large increase in photoemission between the valence band edge and the Fermi level and appears to occur over a two stage process. The first stage involves desorption of contaminants and recrystallization of the oxide, initially impeding hydrogen loading. Further heating overcomes the first stage and leads to degradation of the passive surface oxide leading to a bulk film more accessible for hydrogen loading.
Ultra fast polymer network blue phase liquid crystals
Authors: Hussain Zakir , Masutani Akira , Danner David , Pleis Frank , Hollfelder Nadine , Nelles Gabriele , Kilickiran Pinar
Published: June 2011

Polymer-stabilization of blue phase liquid crystal systems within a host polymer network are reported, which enables ultrafast switching flexible displays. Our newly developed method to stabilize the blue phase in an existing polymer network (e.g., that of a polymer network liquid crystal; PNLC) has shown wide temperature stability and fast response speeds. Systems where the blue phase is stabilized in an already existing polymer network are attractive candidates for ultrafast LCDs. The technology also promises to be applied to flexible PNLC and/or polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) displays using plastic substrate such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
In-plane impedance spectroscopy in aerosol deposited NiMn2O4 negative temperature coefficient thermistor films
Authors: Ryu Jungho , Park Dong-Soo , Schmidt Rainer
Published: June 2011

Temperature dependent in-plane impedance spectroscopy measurements were carried out in order to analyze the charge transport properties of functional oxide NiMn2O4 negative temperature coefficient thermistor films deposited via aerosol deposition techniques onto glass and Al2O3 substrates. The in-plane resistivity (ρ) versus temperature (T) curves of all films were uniform over a large temperature range (180 K to 500 K) and showed the typical exponential power-law behavior associated with variable-range hopping. The ρ-T dependences of annealed and as-deposited films exhibited power-law exponents p of about 0.6 and thermistor constants B in the range of 3500 K to 5000 K. As-deposited films showed higher p values as compared to annealed films. As-deposited films exhibited also increased B values, leading to increased sensitivity of the resistance to temperature changes, whereas annealed films deposited on Al2O3 showed the lowest scatter in differentiated ρ-T data and might display superior reliability for temperature sensing applications.