bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The clinical consequences of a pre-hospital diagnosis of stroke by the emergency medical service system. A pilot study
Authors: Wennman Ingela , Klittermark Paula , Herlitz Johan , Lernfelt Bodil , Kihlgren Mats , Gustafsson Claes , Hansson Per-Olof
Published: October 2012

Background

There is still a considerable delay between the onset of symptoms and arrival at a stroke unit for most patients with acute stroke.

The aim of the study was to describe the feasibility of a pre-hospital diagnosis of stroke by an emergency medical service (EMS) nurse in terms of diagnostic accuracy and delay from dialing 112 until arrival at a stroke unit.

Methods

Between September 2008 and November 2009, a subset of patients with presumed acute stroke in the pre-hospital setting were admitted by EMS staff directly to a stroke unit, bypassing the emergency department. A control group, matched for a number of background variables, was created.

Results

In all, there were 53 patients in the direct admission group, and 49 patients in the control group. The median delay from calling for an ambulance until arrival at a stroke unit was 54 minutes in the direct admission group and 289 minutes in the control group (p < 0.0001).

In a comparison between the direct admission group and the control group, a final diagnosis of stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA) or the sequelae of prior stroke was found in 85% versus 90% (NS). Among stroke patients who lived at home prior to the event, the percentage of patients that were living at home after 3 months was 71% and 62% respectively (NS).

Conclusions

In a pilot study, the concept of a pre-hospital diagnosis of stroke by an EMS nurse was associated with relatively high diagnostic accuracy in terms of stroke-related diagnoses and a short delay to arrival at a stroke unit. These data need to be confirmed in larger studies, with a concomitant evaluation of the clinical consequences and, if possible, the level of patient satisfaction as well.
Physicochemical and biological factors controlling water column metabolism in Sundarbans estuary, India
Authors: Chaudhuri Kaberi , Manna Suman , Sarma Kakoli Sen , Naskar Pankaj , Bhattacharyya Somenath , Bhattacharyya Maitree
Published: October 2012

Background

Sundarbans is the single largest deltaic mangrove forest in the world, formed at estuarine phase of the Ganges - Brahmaputra river system. Primary productivity of marine and coastal phytoplankton contributes to 15% of global oceanic production. But unfortunately estuarine dynamics of tropical and subtropical estuaries have not yet received proper attention in spite of the fact that they experience considerable anthropogenic interventions and a baseline data is required for any future comparison. This study is an endeavor to this end to estimate the primary productivity (gross and net), community respiration and nitrification rates in different rivers and tidal creeks around Jharkhali island, a part of Sundarbans estuary surrounded by the mangrove forest during a period of three years starting from November’08 to October’11.

Results

Various physical and chemical parameters of water column like pH, temperature, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, suspended particulate matter, secchi disc index, tidal fluctuation and tidal current velocity, standing crop and nutrients were measured along with water column productivity. Relationship of net water column productivity with algal biomass (standing crop), nutrient loading and turbidity were determined experimentally. Correlations of bacterial abundance with community respiration and nitrification rates were also explored. Annual integrated phytoplankton production rate of this tidal estuary was estimated to be 151.07 gC m-2 y-1. Gross primary productivity showed marked inter annual variation being lowest in monsoon and highest in postmonsoon period.

Conclusion

Average primary production was a function of nutrient loading and light penetration in the water column. High aquatic turbidity, conductivity and suspended particulate matter were the limiting factors to attenuate light penetration with negative influence on primary production. Community respiration and nitrification rates of the estuary were influenced by the bacterial abundance. The estuary was phosphorus limited in postmonsoon whereas nitrogen-limited in premonsoon and monsoon period. High algal biomass and primary productivity indicated the estuary to be in eutrophic state in most of the time throughout the year. Our study also indicated a seasonal shifting between autotrophic and heterotrophic conditions in Sundarban estuarine ecosystem and it is a tropical, well mixed (high tidal influx) and marine dominated (no fresh water connection) system.
Surface Segregation of 1H,1H,9H-Hexadecafluorononyl Acrylate in Dimethacrylate Resin Films Cured by Exposure to Ultraviolet Light
Authors: Ito Shunya , Yun Cheol Min , Kobayashi Kei , Nakagawa Masaru
Published: October 2012

The surface free energies of dimethacrylate resin films containing a fluorinated reactive additive, 1H,1H,9H-hexadecafluorononyl acrylate, cured by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, were investigated. Hansen’s solubility parameter was useful for choosing a base monomer suitable for the fluorinated additive, which lowered the surface free energy of the cured resin film and decreased the release energy on demolding in UV nanoimprinting.
EC-STM Investigation of Electrochemically Active 2D Adlayer Consisting of Metal Ions and a Bis(terpyridine) Derivative
Authors: Nishiyama Katsuhiko , Ono Yuta , Taniguchi Isao , Yoshimoto Soichiro
Published: October 2012

Two-dimensional (2D) molecular assemblies of 4′,4′′′′-(1,4-phenylene)bis(2,2′:6′,2′′-terpyridine) (PTPy) with several metal ions were investigated in 0.1 M HClO4 by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical scanning tunneling microscopy (EC-STM). An STM image revealed that a disordered adlayer was deposited when iron ions were used, whereas well-ordered PTPy and gold complex adlayers were clearly observed when the electrode potential was precisely controlled. We succeeded in the direct formation of electrochemically active adlayers and the determination of the dependence of the electrocatalytic activity of O2 on the metal ion present.
A Strategy for Amorphous Arrangement of Gold Nanoparticles Using Eccentric Hybrid Particles
Authors: Ohnuma Akira , Cho Eun Chul , Ohtani Bunsho
Published: October 2012

Herein, we report a strategy to fabricate a three-dimensional amorphous arrangement of gold nanoparticles from eccentric gold–polymer hybrid particles. The arrangement of the gold nanoparticles in the three-dimensional colloidal lattice of the hybrid particles was amorphous because of the disordered orientation of the gold nanoparticles in each polymer bead. The amorphous arrangement was different from ordinary random structures, since it had a particular short-range order. Such an amorphous arrangement should have the potential for use in a new class of functional materials.
Highly Dispersive Deposition of Pt Nanoparticles on CdS Nanostructures for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Sakamoto Masanori , Xiong Anke , Kanakubo Ryo , Ikeda Takahiro , Yoshinaga Taizo , Maeda Kazuhiko , Domen Kazunari , Teranishi Toshiharu
Published: October 2012

We have succeeded in depositing monodisperse 1 nm Pt nanoparticles (NPs) on cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanostructures by employing a facile wet-chemical method. This approach is applicable for various CdS nanostructures regardless of their size, shape, and crystal structure. Moreover, photocatalytic measurements revealed that the Pt NP-deposited CdS NPs showed higher activity than those synthesized by photodeposition did. The mechanism of Pt NP deposition on CdS was investigated using transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, X-ray fluorescence analysis, and absorption spectroscopy.
Long-range Attractive Tail of Colloidal Interaction
Authors: Sogami Ikuo S
Published: October 2012

To describe the rich phenomena in dilute dispersions of highly charged colloidal particles, it is necessary to modify the long-range electric part of the DLVO potential. The screened Coulombic potential of pure repulsion obtained from the Helmholtz free energy in the DLVO theory is replaced by a new screened electric potential with a long-range attractive tail derived from the generalized Gibbs free energy, which is identified with the total sum of chemical potentials.
Pinning-induced Variations of the Contact Angle of Drops on Microstructured Surfaces
Authors: Papadopoulos Periklis , Mammen Lena , Deng Xu , Vollmer Doris , Butt Hans-Jürgen
Published: October 2012

The shape of droplets placed on a microstructured pillar surface is investigated by laser scanning confocal microscopy, LSCM. The microstructure consists of cylindrical pillars arranged in a square lattice. Using LSCM the three-dimensional shape of drops and the contact angle are imaged above and between neighboring pillars. Pinning of liquid at the three-phase contact line prevents mm-sized drops to reach their global equilibrium profile. Pinning is observed along the main and diagonal axes of the quadratically arranged pillars. If the preferred orientation of pinning changes, the contact angle can vary by almost 20° between neighboring pillars. Periodic variations of the contact angle are observed along the contact line. The contact angle is determined by the local constraints set by the Young’s equation and large scale constraints set by the Laplace pressure.
The Swelling Pressure of Na–Bentonite: Study with a Density Functional Approach
Authors: Wang Zhao , Liu Longcheng
Published: October 2012

The combination of the fundamental measure theory (FMT) and the weighted correlation approach (WCA) within the framework of the density functional theory, i.e., the FMT/WCA approach, is applied to study the swelling pressure of Na–bentonite at different salt conditions. Good agreement between the FMT/WCA simulations and the results from both experiments and a Donnan-equilibrium-based DLVO model suggests that the hydration repulsion between charged surfaces can be well accounted by the ion–ion correlations effect.
Adsorption Behavior of Coacervates on the Human Hair Surface
Authors: Akiyama Yoko , Matsue Yukako , Kasagawa Arina , Mori Tatsuya , Nishijima Shigehiro
Published: October 2012

The frictional feeling of human hair is an important factor in evaluation of hair care products. The microscopic interactions between human hair and shampoo components were investigated to clarify the mechanism of improvement of frictional sensation by shampoo components. By microscopic analysis and adsorption experiments, it was indicated that the polymer and the surfactant are strongly adsorbed on the cuticle even after rinsing by electrostatic interactions, depending on the kind of surfactant.
Novel Multilayer IR-786-loaded Nanocarriers for Intracellular Delivering: Characterization, Imaging, and Internalization in Human Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Bazylinska Urszula , Saczko Jolanta , Zielinska Katarzyna , Wilk Kazimiera A
Published: October 2012

We aimed to fabricate new oil-core polyelectrolyte-shell nanocapsules loaded with IR-786 cyanine, a third generation photosensitizer, and to evaluate their biocompatibility upon different human cancer cell lines, i.e., breast (MCF-7/WT), skin melanoma (MEWO), and lung (A549). The nanocarriers were fabricated via direct layer-by-layer adsorption of polyanionic poly(l-glutamic acid) sodium salt (PGA) and polycationic poly(l-lysine) (PLL) on a positively charged nanoemulsion template stabilized by N,N-bis[3,3′-(trimethylammonio)propyl]dodecaneamide dimethylsulfate, C12(TAPAMS)2. All studied nanocapsules demonstrated good capacity for IR-786 encapsulation, cellular internalization, and low cytotoxicity.
Effects of Carbon-based Materials and Catalysts on the Hydrogen Desorption/Absorption of LiAlH4
Authors: Rangsunvigit Pramoch , Purasaka Phunsup , Chaisuwan Thanyaluck , Kitiyanan Boonyarach , Kulprathipanja Santi
Published: October 2012

Among the tested carbons, only carbon aerogels (CAs) had significant effects on the hydrogen desorption behavior of LiAlH4. Adding 15 wt % CAs decreased the desorption temperature, while, with 5 wt % CAs, the desorption temperature was still the same. The desorption kinetics of the hydride with 15 wt % CAs, however, did not improve but adding 5 wt % CAs resulted in desorption kinetics improvement. In addition, mixing LiAlH4 with a catalyst decreased the desorption temperature and desorption kinetics of the hydride.
Physicochemical Mechanism for the Lipid Membrane Binding of Polyarginine: The Favorable Enthalpy Change with Structural Transition from Random Coil to α-Helix
Authors: Takechi Yuki , Mizuguchi Chiharu , Tanaka Masafumi , Kawakami Toru , Aimoto Saburo , Okamura Emiko , Saito Hiroyuki
Published: October 2012

Lipid membrane binding of polyarginine with different chain length was evaluated. From our findings, it is suggested that the secondary structural change of polyarginine from random coil to α-helix upon lipid binding facilitates insertion into lipid membrane of the polypeptide, leading to the enhanced membrane penetration of polyarginine.
Advanced Nanocarbon Materials Facilitated by Novel Stimuli-responsive Stabilizers
Authors: Texter John , Ager David , Vasantha Vivek Arjunan , Crombez Rene , England Dustin , Ma Xiumin , Maniglia Rafael , Tambe Nikhil
Published: October 2012

Carbon nanotubes and graphene have been fully dispersed in water using novel stimuli-responsive stabilizers derived from ionic liquid-based reactive surfactants. These stabilizers include nanolatexes and a new family of triblock copolymers. Our waterborne dispersions of fully exfoliated carbon nanotubes yield templated coatings exhibiting the highest thermal conductivity of any materials made outside of a vacuum chamber. Our graphene dispersions compose a new class of rheo-optical fluids. With these graphene dispersions we demonstrate new stimuli responsively controlled coating methods.
In-vivo metabolic characterization of healthy prostate and orthotopic prostate cancer in rats using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 4.7 T
Authors: Walker Paul , Provent Peggy , Tizon Xavier , Créhange Gilles , Duchamp Olivier , Brunotte François , Genne Philippe
Published: October 2012

Background

To assist the development of new anti-cancer drugs, it is important to identify biomarkers of treatment efficacy in the preclinical phases of drug development. In order to improve the predictivity of preclinical experiments, more realistic animal models are needed, for example, tumors xenografted directly on the prostate gland of rodents.

Purpose

To characterize the in-vivo metabolism of healthy rat prostate and of an orthotopic human prostate cancer model using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS).

Material and Methods

The highly metastatic and hormone-independent PC3-MM2 human prostate cancer model was implanted into the ventral prostate lobe of three Nude rats. Healthy Nude (n = 6) and Sprague-Dawley (n = 6) rats were also studied for interspecies comparison of normal prostate metabolism. Magnetic resonance imaging and short echo-time (TE 11.2 ms) single voxel PRESS spectroscopy were performed on dorsal (DP) and ventral (VP) prostate as well as tumor at 4.7 T. The metabolic content and volume of dorsal and ventral lobes were characterized as a function of species and age.

Results

Slightly lower total creatine (tCr)/water (11.3±2.6 vs. 15.3±3.0, NS), but significantly higher Inositol (Ins)/water (18.9±1.9 vs. 6.6±3.3, P < 0.003) and total choline (tCho)/water (15.0±2.1 vs. 5.6±1.1, P< 0.00007) were observed within healthy DP lobes with respect to VP lobes. No significant variation in metabolic content was seen in healthy DP and VP lobes of Nude rats as a function of age, and no species dependence was observed in their metabolic content. For the orthotopic PC3-MM2 tumor, implanted in VP, the tCr/water ratio was significantly lower (3.1±0.9) than neighboring DP (12.8±1.8, P < 0.00003) and healthy VP (15.3±3.0, P < 0.00006). For Ins, the metabolite ratio in PC3-MM2 was close to that of healthy VP (4.3±2.8 vs. 6.6±3.3, p = NS), but much lower than in neighboring DP (19.1±1.3, P < 0.00005). A similar trend was also observed for tCho, where metabolite ratios in PC3-MM2, healthy VP and neighboring DP were 3.5±0.9, 5.6±1.1, and 15.9±0.8, respectively.

Conclusion

The in-vivo MRS study of healthy prostate and orthotopic prostate cancer is feasible in rats. Such baseline data could be important when following the modifications in metabolism, including during anti-cancer drug development protocols or following radiotherapy.
Can Labeling and Information Policies Harm Consumers?
Authors: Lusk Jayson L. , Marette Stéphan
Published: October 2012

Information and labeling are popular food policy instruments because of their presumed positive influence on consumer welfare. In a one-good case with unlimited attention, we show consumer welfare is always improved with the provision of accurate information. However, in a two-good case with limited attention, we show that consumer welfare is not always improved with the provision of accurate information. When attention is constrained, welfare may fall with information provision policies irrespective of their costs. The results suggest information and labeling polices may sometimes be counterproductive when attention is limited.
Modeling and Control of Multi-Functional DVR Supported from Wind Energy System
Authors: Bajpai Ram S. , Gupta Rajesh
Published: October 2012

Dynamic voltage restorer (DVR) is a custom power device used for voltage compensation of sensitive loads against voltage disturbances in power distribution lines. However the DVR spend most of its time in standby mode, since voltage sags occur very infrequently, and hence their utilization is low. In principle, it would be advantageous if the series connected converter based DVR could also be used to compensate for any steady state load voltage harmonics and power flow control in the line. This paper proposes a phase angle regulator which compensates the load voltage during sag with minimum distortions and also controls the flow of power in line when there is no disturbance in the feeder, through a phase adjustment technique. The compensation process is accompanied by an exchange of power between the DVR supported from wind energy conversion system and the grid. Controller works according to progressive phase advance strategy to correct voltage sag as well as power sharing between the DVR and the network as per available power from the wind. In this paper, different control strategies of dynamic voltage restorer are analyzed with emphasis put on the compensation of voltage sag and power flow control. The proposed control performance of the multi-functional DVR is verified through the PSCAD/EMTDC simulation studies.
Active, Reactive and Harmonic compensation control of grid interfaced fuel cell system
Authors: Mehta Gitanjali , Singh S. P. , Patidar Ram Dayal
Published: October 2012

This paper presents the modelling and control of grid interfaced fuel cell distributed generation system with embedded active filter function. The features of active power filter have been incorporated in the control circuit of the current controlled-voltage source inverter interfacing the fuel cell to the grid. Thus the same inverter is utilised to inject power generated from fuel cell source to the grid and to act as shunt active power filter to compensate for load current harmonics, load reactive power demand and load current imbalance. Thus, after compensation, the grid current is sinusoidal and in-phase with grid voltage. Simulation in MATAB and experimentation using DSP is carried out to verify the operation and the control principle. The results are obtained for different operating conditions with varying load demands to prove the effectiveness of the entire system.
Seasonal variation in floating persistence of detached Durvillaea antarctica (Chamisso) Hariot thalli
Authors: Graiff Angelika , Karsten Ulf , Meyer Steffi , Pfender David , Tala Fadia , Thiel Martin
Published: October 2012

Several large kelp species are capable of long-distance dispersal via rafting. However, seasonal changes in environmental conditions at the sea surface may variably affect the physiological status of the floating thalli; challenging conditions during summer may accelerate disintegration and cause rapid sinking. We used the bull kelp Durvillaea antarctica from northern-central Chile (30°S) to test seasonal variation in floating persistence. Experiments with tethered specimens were conducted in all seasons to assess how variable environmental conditions influence the morphology and photosynthetic characteristics of floating D. antarctica. Floating specimens stayed afloat at the surface for more than 1 month during moderate environmental conditions that prevailed in winter, spring, and fall. However, higher water temperatures and intense solar radiation in summer resulted in significant biomass losses and rapid disintegration of the floating kelps; consequently, they sank within <1 month. These strong seasonal effects were reflected in decreasing maximal quantum yield as well as in maximum relative electron transport rates of photosynthesis. Understanding physiological responses of floating algae is important because increasing global temperatures and shifts in solar radiation may strongly affect the survival of floating algae, potentially reducing the distances and frequencies of rafting dispersal.
Target analyte quantification by isotope dilution LC-MS/MS directly referring to internal standard concentrations – validation for serum cortisol measurement
Authors: Maier Barbara , Vogeser Michael
Published: October 2012

Background: Isotope dilution LC-MS/MS methods used in the clinical laboratory typically involve multi-point external calibration in each analytical series. Our aim was to test the hypothesis that determination of target analyte concentrations directly derived from the relation of the target analyte peak area to the peak area of a corresponding stable isotope labelled internal standard compound [direct isotope dilution analysis (DIDA)] may be not inferior to conventional external calibration with respect to accuracy and reproducibility.

Methods: Quality control samples and human serum pools were analysed in a comparative validation protocol for cortisol as an exemplary analyte by LC-MS/MS. Accuracy and reproducibility were compared between quantification either involving a six-point external calibration function, or a result calculation merely based on peak area ratios of unlabelled and labelled analyte.

Results: Both quantification approaches resulted in similar accuracy and reproducibility.

Conclusions: For specified analytes, reliable analyte quantification directly derived from the ratio of peak areas of labelled and unlabelled analyte without the need for a time consuming multi-point calibration series is possible. This DIDA approach is of considerable practical importance for the application of LC-MS/MS in the clinical laboratory where short turnaround times often have high priority.
Composition and antifungal activity of balsam from Liquidambar formosana Hance
Authors: Chien Shih-Chang , Xiao Jun-Hong , Tseng Yen-Hsueh , Kuo Yueh-Hsiung , Wang Sheng-Yang
Published: October 2012

Formosan sweet gum (Liquidambar formosana Hance) is a tree species endemic in Taiwan. In this study, the composition of balsam from L. formosana has been determined by several chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. Among the 26 compounds identified, three new triterpenoids were detected, namely, 2α,3α-dihydroxyolean-12-en-28-al (1), 3α-hydroxyolean-12-en-30-ol (2), and 3α-hydroxyolean-2-oxo-12-en-28-al (3). The most abundant volatile compounds were β-caryophyllene (22.7%), α-pinene (23.3%), and β-pinene (19.6%), and the most abundant nonvolatile compounds were 3α,25-dihydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (12, 19.1%), oleanonic aldehyde (9, 14.0%), and betulonic acid (15, 13.4%). The compounds 3α,25-dihydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid and bornyl cinnamate were found to be inhibitory for white rot (Lenzites betulina) and brown rot (Laetiporus sulphureus) fungi.
Three-dimensional transient analysis of functionally graded cylindrical shells subjected to asymmetric dynamic pressure
Authors: Tahani Masoud , Setoodeh Ali Reza , Selahi Ehsan
Published: October 2012

This paper presents an efficient and accurate numerical method based on the three-dimensional (3-D) elasticity theory for the transient analysis of functionally graded (FG) hollow cylindrical shells subjected to asymmetric dynamic pressure. The Fourier expansion is employed to describe the displacement components and dynamic pressure in the tangential direction. In addition, the layerwise theory is used to accurately account for the displacement components in the radial direction. The equations of motion and the related boundary conditions are derived using Hamilton’s principle. Then, differential quadrature method (DQM) is implemented to discretize the resulting equations in the both spatial and time domains. The convergence, accuracy and performance of the present method are established through the convergence study and comparison with available results in the literature. Also, the effects of different parameters such as thickness-to-inner radius ratio and boundary conditions on the dynamic behavior of hollow FG cylinders are investigated. The present method can accurately predict transient displacement and stress with less computational efforts.
The encyclopedia in Umberto Eco's semiotics
Authors: Desogus, Paolo
Published: October 2012

In Umberto Eco's semiotics, the encyclopedia is a multidimensional space of semiosis. It is a complex system of shared knowledge that governs the production and interpretation of signs inside communicative contexts. Every semiotic act involves the elements that form the encyclopedia.

By means of several examples and comparisons with different semiotic theories, my paper aims to show how semiosis is governed by semantic categorizations, pragmatic rules, and narrative frames that the encyclopedia articulates and makes operative for interpreters and producers of signs.
Semiotic value in advertisements in Silesian Catholic periodicals from the second half of the nineteenth to early twentieth centuries
Authors: Haładewicz-Grzelak, Małgorzata , Lubos-Kozieł, Joanna
Published: October 2012

The paper studies semiotic values in advertisements appearing in German Catholic periodicals in Silesia in the second half of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The study is grounded in the Tartu School of Semiotics and shows shifts and hierarchies in the semiotic valuations of particular commodities. Collected advertisements were classified into four main groups: (1) books, (2) church art, (3) church and devotional accessories, (4) everyday life commodities. We motivate the claim that the group (2) of the advertisements in the Catholic press we analyzed was the driver for the introduction of the remaining two categories of ads, hence the study of this group is pivotal for our analysis. The parameters of center, periphery, and “border,” as between the sacred and the profane are also taken into account, within the structural interrelation of Sr (religious system) (cf. Zaliźniak et al. 1975 [1962]) and Sc (commercial code). Assuming the usefulness of explanatory mechanisms, in conclusion a heuristic interpretation is provided in terms of the relations of semiotic primes.
Icons of novel thought: A new perspective on Peirce's definition of metaphor (CP 2.277)
Authors: Lattmann, Claas
Published: October 2012

This paper tries to elucidate Peirce's notoriously obscure definition of metaphor (CP 2.277) in the context of his general theory of signs. It is argued that Peirce defined metaphor not as a proposition, but as a genuinely original iconic (meta-)sign that represents a novel sign relation and, hence, novel thought. The adequacy of this approach is discussed against the background of rival theories of metaphor. This shows, inter alia, 1) that metaphors can and must be interpreted like ordinary signs (which in particular allows for paraphrases); 2) how they get conventional and how they can be revived; and 3) that they are intrinsically independent of linguistic levels (e.g., words) and media (e.g., natural language). Peirce's theory thus turns out to be a reasonable explanation of a central semiotic phenomenon and, hence, promises to serve as a powerful tool for modern literary and cultural studies.
Le chronotope littéraire de l'étranger
Authors: Baroni, Raphaël
Published: October 2012

Cet article traite de la question des rapports entre la dynamique de l'intrigue et la représentation de l'étranger dans sa dimension temporelle. A la suite de Bakhtine, il s'agira de montrer que le récit littéraire produit un “chronotope” dans lequel la représentation s'abaisse “au niveau d'une réalité actuelle, fluide et inachevée” (1978 : 472). On défendra l'idée que, loin de n'être qu'un dispositif commercial aliénant le lecteur, la tension narrative, qui représente la part dynamique de l'intrigue littéraire, produit un espace temporel orienté permettant le déploiement de l'étranger. Cette réflexion visera par ailleurs à entamer un dialogue interdisciplinaire entre, d'une part, la poétique de l'intrigue telle que l'articule la narratologie contemporaine et, d'autre part, une réflexion philosophique visant la description phénoménologique de l'étranger.
Peirce and the logic of image
Authors: Pietarinen, Ahti-Veikko
Published: October 2012

Peirce divided hypoicons into images, diagrams, and metaphors. For diagrams, he developed a logical theory of graphs: many-dimensional linguistic expressions analyzing meaning by virtue of iconicity of logical form. He neglected the logic of images as well as metaphors, however. Metaphors relate to non-standard meanings that combine complex diagrammatic representations. Images are elementary constituents of qualitative space. I will argue that the interpretation of images corresponds to the interpretation of non-logical vocabularies. This raises the question of whether images are also linguistic, in other words whether the simple qualities they partake of are the simple qualities of some propositional content. I will argue that Peirce favored a picture theory of language that takes images to interpret elementary characters of objects that constitute propositions. He did not ascribe images with properties of propositions, as that would have rendered them non-hypoiconic signs.
Acylated ghrelin as a provocative test for the diagnosis of GH deficiency in adults
Authors: Gasco Valentina , Beccuti Guglielmo , Baldini Chiara , Prencipe Nunzia , Di Giacomo Stellina , Berton Alessandro , Guaraldi Federica , Tabaro Isabella , Maccario Mauro , Ghigo Ezio , Grottoli Silvia
Published: October 2012

Objective

Insulin tolerance test (ITT) is the test of reference for the diagnosis of adult GH deficiency (GHD), although GHRH in combination with arginine (ARG) or GH secretagogues are considered equally reliable tests. Testing with GH secretagogue alone is, anyway, a potent stimulus exploring the integrity of hypothalamic pathways controlling somatotropic function. We therefore aimed to determine the diagnostic reliability of testing with ghrelin, the natural GH secretagogue.

Methods

We studied the GH response (every 15 min from −15 to +120 min) to acylated ghrelin (1 μg/kg i.v. at 0 min) in 78 patients with a history of pituitary disease (49 male, 29 female; age (mean±s.d.): 52.1±18.7 years; BMI: 26.7±5.3 kg/m2). The lack of GH response to GHRH+ARG and/or ITT was considered the gold standard for the diagnosis of GHD. The best GH cut-off to ghrelin test, defined as the one with the best sensitivity (SE) and specificity (SP), was identified using the receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

The best GH cut-off to ghrelin test was 7.3 μg/l in lean subjects (SE 88.2%, SP 90.9%), 2.9 μg/l in overweight subjects (SE 92.6%, SP 100%) and 0.6 μg/l in obese subjects (SE 50%, SP 100%). The diagnostic accuracy was 89.3, 94.1 and 62.5% respectively.

Conclusions

Our data show that testing with acylated ghrelin represents a reliable diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of adult GHD, in lean and overweight subjects, if appropriate cut-off limits are assumed. Obesity strongly reduces GH response to ghrelin, GH weight-related cut-off limit and diagnostic reliability of the test.
Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists and renal involvement in primary aldosteronism: opening of a new era
Authors: Catena Cristiana , Colussi GianLuca , Sechi Leonardo A
Published: October 2012

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is one of the commonest forms of curable hypertension, and use of the plasma aldosterone-to-renin ratio as a screening test has led to a more efficient identification of this condition. Both animal and human studies have indicated that PA is associated with a variety of cardiovascular and renal complications that reflect the capability of elevated aldosterone to induce tissue damage exceeding that induced by hypertension itself. Involvement of the kidney in PA is highly relevant because structural renal damage is associated with less favorable outcome, both in terms of blood pressure response to treatment and possibility to develop progressive renal failure. However, early involvement of the kidney in PA is characterized by functional changes that are largely reversible with treatment. Unilateral adrenalectomy or administration of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists are the current options for treating an aldosterone-producing adenoma or idiopathic adrenal hyperplasia. Both treatments are effective in correcting hypertension and hypokalemia, and currently available information on their capability to prevent deterioration of renal function indicates that both surgery and medical treatment are of considerable value.
The in vitro metabolism of cortisol by ovarian follicles of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): comparison with ovulated oocytes and pre-hatch embryos
Authors: Li Mao , Christie Heather L , Leatherland John F
Published: October 2012

Mid-vitellogenic stage rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) ovarian follicles (both intact and yolk free (YF)), ovulated oocytes and embryos were co-incubated with [2,4,6,7-3H]cortisol for 18 h to determine the degree and nature of the metabolism and biotransformation of the glucocorticoid. There was evidence of the conversion of cortisol to the less biologically potent glucocorticoid, cortisone, and the formation of glucocorticoid sulphates (both cortisol and cortisone) for all cell and tissue samples, suggesting the presence of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) and glucocorticoid sulphotransferase (GST) activity at all stages; however, GST activity was particularly marked in both intact and YF ovarian follicles, suggesting an important role of follicles in limiting the exposure of oocyte to maternal cortisol. As there was no evidence of 11β-HSD or GST activity in ovarian fluid, the findings affirm that ovarian follicles (probably the thecal and granulosa cells) provide a barrier against the transfer of cortisol to the oocytes by forming sulphated steroids, whereas ovulated oocytes and early embryos have a more limited capacity to either metabolize or conjugate cortisol and are therefore more vulnerable at the post-ovulatory and early embryonic stages to increases in exposure to the glucocorticoid.
The Impact of Congenital Cardiovascular Malformations on the Assessment and Surgical Management of Infants with Cleft Lip and/or Palate
Authors: Harry Brian L. , Tebockhorst Seth , Deleyiannis Frederic W.-B.
Published: October 2012

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the cardiac evaluation of cleft lip and/or palate patients, characterize their cardiovascular malformations, and determine the impact of cardiovascular malformations on surgical management.

Design

A single-institution retrospective study of 329 consecutive cleft patients was performed. Cardiovascular malformations were categorized according to involvement of cardiac septa, vasculature, and valves. Their impact on the need for cardiac surgery, timing of cleft repair, need for subacute bacterial endocarditis (SBE) prophylaxis, and the perioperative experience was evaluated.

Results

Ten percent (33/329) of cleft patients had a cardiovascular malformation, and 3% underwent cardiac surgery prior to cleft repair. Malformations of the septa, vasculature, and valves were present in 9%, 6%, and 2% of cleft infants, respectively. Murmur as a sign of structural cardiovascular disease was 79% sensitive and 97% specific. Cleft palate repair was delayed by 2 months in patients with a cardiovascular malformation ( P = .001). Subacute bacterial endocarditis prophylaxis was recommended, not recommended, or not specified by cardiology in 18%, 33%, and 48% of cleft patients with a cardiovascular malformation, respectively. Postoperative stay and surgical complications were not associated with cardiovascular malformation.

Conclusions

Even in the absence of a murmur, echocardiographic screening should be considered in infants with nonspecific signs of cardiovascular disease. Greater awareness of the guidelines for SBE prophylaxis is needed. Most cleft patients with a cardiovascular malformation do not require cardiac surgery and do not experience an increased rate of complications associated with cleft surgery.
Effects of Environmental Factors on Seed Germination and Emergence of Smutgrass (Sporobolus indicus) Varieties
Authors: Rana Neha , Wilder Barton J. , Sellers Brent A. , Ferrell Jason A. , MacDonald Gregory E.
Published: October 2012

Smutgrass is an invasive warm-season perennial bunch-type grass native to tropical Asia. The two varieties of smutgrass prevalent in Florida are small smutgrass and giant smutgrass. Laboratory seed germination experiments were conducted on both smutgrass varieties to determine the effect of various environmental factors on germination and emergence. The average germination rate for both varieties was 88% at 30/20 C day/night temperatures. Seed germination for both varieties was greater under simulated temperature flux than at constant temperatures. Seed of both varieties germinated at four simulated Florida temperature fluxes (22/11, 27/15, 33/24, and 29/19 C day/night), although the germination of small smutgrass and giant smutgrass was reduced at 33/24 and 22/11 C, respectively. Germination of small and giant smutgrass under dark conditions was 27 and 53%, respectively. Both smutgrass varieties germinated over a wide range of pH values. Small and giant smutgrass germination was inhibited at water potentials below −0.2 MPa and when small smutgrass seed was placed below the soil surface. Emergence of giant smutgrass seed did not occur below 3 cm. Both smutgrass varieties germinated over a broad range of environmental conditions, indicating their capability of year-round germination; however, germination is only likely to occur under field conditions during the summer growing season when rainfall is prevalent. These results indicate that both species have the ability to germinate over a wide range of environmental conditions but that germination is inhibited by moisture stress and depth of burial. Considering that giant smutgrass prefers higher temperatures than small smutgrass, the advent of rainfall from June through September is conducive for germination. Practices that focus on the germination pattern of smutgrass could lead to better long-term management of smutgrass in Florida.
Phytotoxic Activity of Clove Oil, Its Constituents, and Its Modification by Light Intensity in Broccoli and Common Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album)
Authors: Stokłosa Agnieszka , Matraszek Renata , Isman Murray B. , Upadhyaya Mahesh K.
Published: October 2012

Herbicidal activity of clove oil and its main constituents eugenol, β-caryophyllene, and α-humulene was studied by measuring their effects on cell membrane integrity in broccoli and common lambsquarters plants at the three- and nine-leaf stage, respectively. Roles of essential oil constituents in the overall phytotoxicity of clove oil, dose-response (10 to 160 mM) relationships of their phytotoxicity, and the effect of light intensity on phytotoxicity of clove oil and eugenol were studied. Most of the phytotoxicity of clove oil (2.5% solution) was due to eugenol, its largest constituent. β-caryophyllene and α-humulene played little or no role. Dose-response relationships showed that at equimolar concentration, eugenol was the most phytotoxic essential oil constituent of the clove oil. On a per unit biomass basis, membrane damage in response to clove oil and eugenol sprays decreased with increasing light intensity. This suggests that efficacy of essential oil in causing plant damage could be affected by light intensity experienced by plants prior to the oil spray.
Early Physiological Mechanisms of Weed Competition
Authors: Afifi Maha , Swanton Clarence
Published: October 2012

Early physiological mechanisms that occur in crop plants in response to neighboring weeds are not well understood. In this experiment, it was hypothesized that, in the absence of direct competition for resources, low red to far red ratio (R:FR) reflected from neighboring weeds will modulate the phenylpropanoid pathway, increase hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and up-regulate the expression of ethylene biosynthesis and auxin transport genes. Laboratory experiments were conducted under conditions of nonlimiting resources using perennial ryegrass as a model weed species. We discovered that the detection by phytochrome (Phy) of low R:FR signals reflected from both biological and nonbiological sources triggered an up-regulation of ethylene biosynthesis genes and stimulated an auxin transport gene. The low R:FR also modulated the phenylpropanoid pathway resulting in a reduction in anthocyanin content and an enhancement of lignin synthesis. The presence of neighboring weeds also caused an accumulation of H2O2in the first leaf and crown root tissues of the maize seedling. Stomata were observed to be closed as H2O2accumulated in leaf tissue. This is the first study to report the modulation of phenylpropanoid pathway and the accumulation of H2O2attributed to low R:FR. We further suggest that these physiological changes that occur in response to early weed competition result in a physiological cost to the crop plant, which contributes to the rapid loss in yield observed in weed competition studies conducted under field conditions.
ρ-Cymene Inhibits Growth and Induces Oxidative Stress in Rice Seedling Plants
Authors: Zhang Fengjuan , Chen Fengxin , Liu Wanxue , Guo Jianying , Wan Fanghao
Published: October 2012

ρ-Cymene was one of the major components of volatiles released by croftonweed. The allelopthy of ρ-cymene on the growth of upland rice seedlings was performed. Hydrogen peroxide generation, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, proline content, total ascorbate (ascorbate/dehydroascorbate), reduced/oxidized glutathione, and the levels of induction of antioxidant enzyme were studied in the seedlings of upland rice. ρ-Cymene inhibited the growth of upland rice seedlings. Exposure of upland rice seedlings to ρ-cymene increased levels of H2O2, MDA, and proline, indicating lipid peroxidation and induction of oxidative stress. Activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, guaiacol peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and glutathione reductase were significantly elevated during the treatment period (7–15 d) compared with enzymes in the upland rice seedlings unexposed to ρ-cymene, thereby indicating the enhanced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon ρ-cymene exposure. These results suggest that activation of the antioxidant system by ρ-cymene led to the formation of ROS that resulted in cellular damage and decreased growth of upland rice seedlings.
Pollen-Mediated Gene Flow in Common Lambsquarters (Chenopodium album)
Authors: Yerka Melinda K. , de Leon Natalia , Stoltenberg David E.
Published: October 2012

Common lambsquarters is highly competitive in many cropping systems and has demonstrated resistance to several herbicide mechanisms of action. However, predicting the spread of resistance is difficult due to limited information about gene flow. We conducted research to determine the potential for movement of resistance alleles in common lambsquarters under field conditions.Chenopodium giganteum(a member of theC. albumaggregate) that has a dominant magenta phenotypic marker was used as a pollen parent in gene flow experiments. A wild-type accession of common lambsquarters was used as a seed parent. Seed parents were grown in a soybean field and arranged in concentric circles 2 to 15 m from a center which contained 24 pollen parents. The concentric circles were divided into eight directions. Pollen movement was estimated by determining the percentage of progeny with the magenta phenotype from seed parents. Average cross-pollination across directions was greatest (3.0%) at 2 m and decreased to low levels (0.16%) 15 m from the center, consistent with observations of other primarily self-pollinated species. Cross-pollination was greatest (P < 0.10) in the south-southwest, west-southwest, and west-northwest directions, approximately 180° from the prevailing wind direction during the time of pollen shed. Since common lambsquarters does not have an active dispersal mechanism for seeds, pollen-mediated gene flow may play an important role in the transfer and frequency of resistance alleles within and between populations.
What causes size coupling in fruit–frugivore interaction webs?
Authors: Burns K. C.
Published: October 2012

The simplest and arguably the most ubiquitous pattern in seed dispersal mutualisms is size coupling: large frugivores tend to consume larger fruits and small frugivores tend to consume smaller fruits. Despite the simplicity of this pattern, the potential mechanisms responsible for fruit–frugivore size coupling are mechanistically divergent and poorly resolved. Size coupling could arise deterministically, if large frugivores actively seek out larger fruits to maximize their foraging efficiency. Alternatively, size coupling could also arise passively, if frugivores forage randomly, but are able to consume only those fruit species that are smaller than their gape width. I observed birds forage for fruits in a New Zealand forest reserve at approximately five‐day intervals for six years to test for fruit–frugivore size coupling. I then derived a suite of network analyses to establish whether fruit–frugivore size coupling was best explained by active or passive foraging by frugivores. Results showed a strikingly strong pattern in size coupling; the average size of fruits consumed by each frugivore species increased with their maximum gape width. Simulation analyses revealed that over 70% of variation in interaction frequencies in the observed fruit–frugivore web could be explained by a size‐constrained, passive, foraging model. Foraging models in which birds foraged actively for different‐sized fruits to improve their foraging efficiency performed more poorly. Results were therefore consistent with the hypothesis that apparently nonrandom patterns in seed dispersal mutualisms can sometimes arise from simple stochastic processes.