bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Local Conflicts to Global Terrorism: Can Refugees and Regional Security Problems Jeopardise the Renewal of Kenya
Authors: Babere Kerata Chacha
Published: November 2011

Over the last decade or so the African continent has continued to experience political changes of monumental proportions. Monumental not only because of the drastic restructuring of social and economic and political spaces, but also because of the introduction of new forms of politics and political actors. These changes were driven a great deal by the developments in the global system, in particular, the demise of the Soviet Union as a nation and super power, the triumph of the market, and more importantly, the end of the Cold War. In relation to these changes, the African continent has equally been characterisedby a succession of large-scale refugee movements, internal population displacements and mass repatriation movements. In a number of countries – Angola, Burundi, Liberia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Rwanda, Sierra Leone and Somalia, for example, large proportions of the population have been uprooted, forced to abandon their homes by communaland ethnic conflict, persecution and violence. Most of these refugees have ended up in Kenya with a number of arms or religious fundamental ideologies. The process has witnessed an influx of arms in Kenya, helping fuel intra-ethnic and inter-border conflicts. Kenya has witnessed massive devastating terrorist attacks beginning with the bombings of the US Embassy and now Kenya has become an easy prey and target for terrorist activities. The reasons for this trend have been a concern for academics around the globe. A close look at intra-state conflicts in East Africa reveals a common pattern, for example: rebellion against central authority; inter-communal ethnic or religious conflicts; sporadic short lived conflicts related to resource around livestock; and generalised violence which is banditry-related. This study is a historical investigation of the development of
Civil Society Organisations and Democratic Consolidation in Uganda1
Authors: Mesharch W. Katusiimeh
Published: November 2011

consolidation in Uganda. It argues that civil society organisations (CSOs) play an important role in building democratic governments but also questions whether the CSOs can live up to the theoretical expectations of building democratic governments. This paper, based on case study evidence from Uganda, attempts to bridge the gap between theory and reality by offering a realistic assessment of CSOs’ capabilities as regards democratic consolidation. Because of Uganda’s political history, political activism and political advocacy have not been widely embraced by CSOs. Negative political experiences have created some apathy and wariness resulting in many CSOs maintaining that they are apolitical. As a result, CSOs havefailed to mark distance from the NRM government in a manner that affirms their autonomous and independent growth. Ultimately, such a posture has undermined the CSOs’ cause and has confined them to issues that do not fundamentally challenge or affect the status quo.
The Utilisation of Africa’s Environmental Resources and the Challenges of Globalisation: A Case Study from Eastern Tanzania
Authors: William Rugumamu
Published: November 2011

This paper concerns the micro-environment and globalisation nexus. With the effectiveparticipation of the leadership in Morogoro region, Melela village on the leeward side of the Uluguru mountains was identified as an ecologically and economically problem area typified by, among others, periodic drought, crop failure, food shortage and famine, relief food supplies, urban-rural migration, land use conflicts and a community sensitive to agricultural market signals. It is indeed thisstate of affairs that makes Melela village an interesting diagnostic case that calls for in-depth analysis of agro-biodiversity conditions under economic globalisation and indeed for urgent resource planning and management.
Accounting for non-linear chemistry of ship plumes in the GEOS-Chem global chemistry transport model
Authors: Vinken G. C. M. , Boersma K. F. , Jacob D. J. , Meijer E. W.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. We present a computationally efficient approach to account for the non-linear chemistry occurring during the dispersion of ship exhaust plumes in a global 3-D model of atmospheric chemistry (GEOS-Chem). We use a plume-in-grid formulation where ship emissions age chemically for 5 h before being released in the global model grid. Besides reducing the original ship NOx emissions in GEOS-Chem, our approach also releases the secondary compounds ozone and HNO3, produced during the 5 h after the original emissions, into the model. We applied our improved method and also the widely used "instant dilution" approach to a 1-yr GEOS-Chem simulation of global tropospheric ozone-NOx-VOC-aerosol chemistry. We also ran simulations with the standard model (emitting 10 molecules O3 and 1 molecule HNO3 per ship NOx molecule), and a model without any ship emissions at all. The model without any ship emissions simulates up to 0.1 ppbv (or 50%) lower NOx concentrations over the North Atlantic in July than our improved GEOS-Chem model. "Instant dilution" overestimates NOx concentrations by 0.1 ppbv (50%) and ozone by 3–5 ppbv (10–25%), compared to our improved model over this region. These conclusions are supported by comparing simulated and observed NOx and ozone concentrations in the lower troposphere over the Pacific Ocean. The comparisons show that the improved GEOS-Chem model simulates NOx concentrations in between the instant dilution model and the model without ship emissions, which results in lower O3 concentrations than the instant dilution model. The relative differences in simulated NOx and ozone between our improved approach and instant dilution are smallest over strongly polluted seas (e.g. North Sea), suggesting that accounting for in-plume chemistry is most relevant for pristine marine areas.
A 3-D tomographic retrieval approach with advection compensation for the air-borne limb-imager GLORIA
Authors: Ungermann J. , Blank J. , Lotz J. , Leppkes K. , Hoffmann L. , Guggenmoser T. , Kaufmann M. , Preusse P. , Naumann U. , Riese M.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Infrared limb sounding from aircraft can provide 2-D curtains of multiple trace gas species. However, conventional limb sounders view perpendicular to the aircraft axis and are unable to resolve the observed airmass along their line-of-sight. GLORIA (Gimballed Limb Observer for Radiance Imaging of the Atmosphere) is a new remote sensing instrument that is able to adjust its horizontal view angle with respect to the aircraft flight direction from 45° to 135°. This will allow for tomographic measurements of mesoscale structures for a wide variety of atmospheric constituents. Many flights of the GLORIA instrument will not follow closed curves that allow measuring an airmass from all directions. Consequently, it is examined by means of simulations, what spatial resolution can be expected under ideal conditions from tomographic evaluation of measurements made during a straight flight. It is demonstrated that the achievable horizontal resolution in the line-of-sight direction could be reduced from over 200 km to around 70 km compared to conventional retrievals and that the tomographic retrieval is also more robust against horizontal gradients in retrieved quantities in this direction. In a second step, it is shown that the incorporation of channels exhibiting different optical depth can further enhance the spatial resolution of 3-D retrievals enabling the exploitation of spectral samples usually not used for limb sounding due to their opacity. A second problem for tomographic retrievals is that advection, which can be neglected for conventional retrievals, plays an important role for the time-scales involved in a tomographic measurement flight. This paper presents a method to diagnose the effect of a time-varying atmosphere on a 3-D retrieval and demonstrates an effective way to compensate for effects of advection by incorporating wind-fields from meteorological datasets as a priori information.
A study of Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances and Atmospheric Gravity Waves using EISCAT Svalbard Radar IPY-data
Authors: Vlasov A. , Kauristie K. , van de Kamp M. , Luntama J.-P. , Pogoreltsev A.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. We present a statistical study of Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (TIDs) as observed by the EISCAT Svalbard Radar (ESR) during the continuous IPY-run (March 2007–February 2008) with field-aligned measurements. We have developed a semi-automatic routine for searching and extracting Atmospheric Gravity Wave (AGW) activity. The collected data shows that AGW-TID signatures are common in the high-latitude ionosphere especially in the field-aligned ion velocity data (244 cases of AGW-TID signatures in daily records), but they can be observed also in electron density (26 cases), electron temperature (12 cases) and ion temperature (26 cases). During the IPY campaign (in solar minimum conditions) AGW-TID events appear more frequently during summer months than during the winter months. It remains still as a topic for future studies whether the observed seasonal variation is natural or caused by seasonal variation in the performance of the observational method that we use (AGW-TID signature may be more pronounced in a dense ionosphere). In our AGW-TID dataset the distribution of the oscillation periods has two peaks, one around 0.5–0.7 h and the other around 1.1–1.3 h. The diurnal occurrence rate has a deep minimum in the region of magnetic midnight, which might be partly explained by irregular auroral activity obscuring the TID signatures from our detection routines. As both the period and horizontal phase speed estimates (as derived from the classical AGW dispersion relation) show values typical both for large scale TIDs and mesoscale TIDs it is difficult to distinguish whether the generator for high-latitude AGW-TIDs resides typically in the troposphere or in the near-Earth space. The results of our statistical analysis give anyway some valuable reference information for the future efforts to learn more about the dominating TID source mechanisms in polar cap conditions, and to improve AGW simulations.
An Electrochemical Sensor Based on Carbon Nanotube Bimetallic Au‐Pt Inorganic‐Organic Nanofiber Hybrid Nanocomposite Electrode Applied for Detection of Guaifenesin
Authors: Gholivand Mohammad Bagher , Azadbakht Azadeh , Pashabadi Afshin
Published: November 2011

A glassy carbon electrode modified with carbon nanotube and bimetallic inorganic‐organic nanofiber hybrid nanocomposite was prepared and used for determination of trace levels of guaifenesin. A modified glassy carbon electrode was developed for the rapid, selective, sensitive and low cost monitoring of guaifenesin. Oxidation of guaifenesin on the surface of the modified electrode was investigated with differential pulse voltammetry and the results showed that the modified electrode remarkably improved sensitivity and selectivity for the electrochemical assay of guaifenesin. Detection limit and quantitation limit were found to be 0.0175 µM and 0.0583 µM, respectively.
Improvement of the droop efficiency in InGaN‐based light‐emitting diodes by growing on GaN substrate
Authors: Fang Yen‐Hsiang , Xuan Rong , Chao Chu‐Li
Published: November 2011

The high quality GaN substrates were fabricated by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE). The threading dislocation densities (TDDs) in the InGaN/GaN multiple‐quantum‐well light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) on high quality GaN substrate was substantially reduced, leading to a significant reduction in an improved droop effect at high current density. Compared to the same devices grown on Al2O3, these LEDs showed the enhancement in output power and reduction in droop. In this study, we demonstrate the optical and electrical properties of LEDs grown on Al2O3 and GaN substrate. The LEDs on GaN substrate outperformed the LEDs on Al2O3 at forward voltage, output power, and external quantum efficiency (EQE) for 1.5%, 40%, and 15% enhanced, respectively (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Multiple Attribute Control Charts with False Discovery Rate Control
Authors: Li Yanting , Tsung Fugee
Published: November 2011

The statistical cumulative sum (CUSUM) chart is a powerful tool for monitoring the attribute quality variable in manufacturing industry. In this article, we studied the multiplicity problem caused by simultaneously monitoring more than one attribute quality variable. Multiple binomial and Poisson CUSUM charts incorporating a multiple hypothesis testing technique known as false discovery rate control were proposed. The procedures for establishing the new control schemes were presented, and the performance of the new methods was evaluated using Monte Carlo simulation. The approximation methods for obtaining the p‐values of the CUSUM statistics for conducting the new control schemes were also provided and evaluated. The new methods were also illustrated with a real example. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of prey-mediated effects of the coleopteran-specific toxin Cry3Bb1 on the generalist predator Atheta coriaria (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae)
Authors: García M. , Ortego F. , Castañera P. , Farinós G.P.
Published: November 2011

A laboratory study was carried out to assess the potential prey-mediated effects of Cry3Bb1-expressing Bt maize on the fitness and predatory ability of Atheta coriaria Kraatz (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae), using Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) as prey. The concentration of Cry3Bb1 toxin through the trophic chain significantly decreased from Bt maize (21.7 μg g−1 FW) to mites (5.6 μg g−1 FW) and then to A. coriaria adults (1.4 μg g−1 FW), but not from mites to A. coriaria L1–L3 larvae (4.1–4.6 μg g−1 FW). Interestingly, the toxin levels detected in A. coriaria larvae represent more than 20% of the concentration found in Bt maize, and the toxin was detected up to 48 h after exposure. To our knowledge, this is the highest level of exposure ever reported in a predatory beetle to the Cry3Bb1 protein. When A. coriaria larvae were reared on Bt-fed mites, Bt-free mites or rearing food, no significant differences among treatments were observed in development, morphological measurements of sclerotized structures and body weight. Moreover, no negative effects on reproductive parameters were reported in adults feeding on Bt-fed prey after 30 days of treatment, and survival was not affected after 60 days of exposure. Similarly, predatory ability and prey consumption of A. coriaria larvae and adults were not affected by exposure to the toxin. All together, these results indicate a lack of adverse effects on A. coriaria, a species commonly used as a biological control agent. The use of A. coriaria as a surrogate species for risk assessment of GM crops that express insecticidal proteins is discussed.
Cyclocephala (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Dynastinae) evolution in Lesser West Indies indicates a Northward colonization by C. tridentata
Authors: Giannoulis T. , Dutrillaux A.-M. , Stamatis C. , Dutrillaux B. , Mamuris Z.
Published: November 2011

A dual cytogenetic and molecular analysis was performed in four species of Cyclocepala (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Dynastinae) from Lesser Antilles (Martinique, Dominica and Guadeloupe). Two species/sub-species, C. mafaffa grandis and C. insulicola, are endemic to Guadeloupe. They have their own non-polymorphic karyotype and a fairly homogeneous haplotype of the COI gene. C. melanocephala rubiginosa has a distinct karyotype. Its COI haplotype is homogeneous in Guadeloupe and heterogeneous in Martinique. Finally, C. tridentata has highly different karyotypes and haplotypes in the three islands. In Martinique, its karyotype, composed of metacentrics, is monomorphic while its haplotype is fairly heterogeneous. Both are close to those of other Cyclocephala and Dynastinae species, thus fairly ancestral. In Guadeloupe, its karyotype is highly polymorphic, with many acrocentrics, and its haplotype fairly homogeneous. Both are highly derived. In Dominica, both the karyotype and the haplotype represent intermediate stages between those of Martinique and Guadeloupe. We conclude that several independent colonization episodes have occurred, which excludes that C. insulicola is a vicariant form of C. tridentata in Guadeloupe. Both chromosome and COI gene polymorphisms clearly indicate a recent colonization with a northward direction for C. tridentata.
Neuropsychological Functioning in Girls with Premature Adrenarche
Authors: Tissot A. , Dorn L.D. , Rotenstein D. , Rose S.R. , Sontag-Padilla L.M. , Jillard C.L. , Witchel S.F. , Berga S.L. , Loucks T.L. , Beers S.R.
Published: November 2011

Contemporary research indicates that brain development occurs during childhood and into early adulthood, particularly in certain regions. A critical question is whether premature or atypical hormone exposures impact brain development (e.g., structure) or function (e.g., neuropsychological functioning). The current study enrolled 40 girls (aged 6–8 years) diagnosed with premature adrenarche (PA) and a comparison group of 36 girls with on-time maturation. It was hypothesized that girls with PA would demonstrate lower IQ and performance on several neuropsychological tasks. The potential for a sexually dimorphic neuropsychological profile in PA was also explored. No significant univariate or multivariate group differences emerged for any neuropsychological instrument. However, effect size confidence intervals contained medium-sized group differences at the subscale level. On-time girls performed better on verbal, working memory, and visuospatial tasks. Girls with PA showed improved attention, but not a sexually dimorphic profile. These results, though preliminary, suggest that premature maturation may influence neuropsychological functioning. (JINS, 2012, 18, 151–156)
Interactions between hepatitis B virus and aflatoxin B1: effects on p53 induction in HepaRG cells
Authors: Lereau Myriam , Gouas Doriane , Villar Stéphanie , Besaratinia Ahmad , Hautefeuille Agnès , Berthillon Pascale , Martel-Planche Ghislaine , Nogueira da Costa André , Ortiz-Cuaran Sandra , Hantz Olivier , Pfeifer Gerd P. , Hainaut Pierre , Chemin Isabelle
Published: November 2011

Infection by hepatitis B virus (HBV) and dietary exposure to aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) are the main risk factors for the development of chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). How these factors cooperate is still largely unknown. AFB1 activation leads to DNA adduction and mutagenesis, with a specific mutation at codon 249 in TP53 (p.R249S). So far, only limited studies have addressed the effects of AFB1 on HBV replication. We have analysed the effects of both risk factors on p53 induction during HBV infection in HepaRG, a cell line with hepatocyte-like morphology that metabolizes AFB1 and supports HBV infection. Exposure to AFB1 up to 5 µM induced a downregulation of HBV replication after 48 h, as measured by a decrease in viral antigens in the culture medium (HBsAg, HBeAg and large envelope protein) and in intracellular levels of HBV transcripts, DNA and HBsAg. Conversely, HBV infection did not significantly modify AFB1-DNA adduct formation or repair as assessed by immunodot-blot assay, and the induction of p53 in response to AFB1 was similar in infected and non-infected HepaRG cells. Overall, our results suggest that AFB1 exposure decreases HBV replication, whereas DNA damage by AFB1 and subsequent p53 induction is not affected by the presence of the virus. Thus, in HepaRG cell line, AFB1 and HBV do not cooperate to increase DNA damage by AFB1. Further studies on the effects of both factors in a context of chronicity are needed to better understand synergistic effects.
Vectorial signalling mechanism required for cell–cell communication during sporulation in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Diez Veronica , Schujman Gustavo E. , Gueiros‐Filho Frederico J. , de Mendoza Diego
Published: November 2011

Spore formation in Bacillus subtilis takes place in a sporangium consisting of two chambers, the forespore and the mother cell, which are linked by pathways of cell–cell communication. One pathway, which couples the proteolytic activation of the mother cell transcription factor σE to the action of a forespore synthesized signal molecule, SpoIIR, has remained enigmatic. Signalling by SpoIIR requires the protein to be exported to the intermembrane space between forespore and mother cell, where it will interact with and activate the integral membrane protease SpoIIGA. Here we show that SpoIIR signal activity as well as the cleavage of its N‐terminal extension is strictly dependent on the prespore fatty acid biosynthetic machinery. We also report that a conserved threonine residue (T27) in SpoIIR is required for processing, suggesting that signalling of SpoIIR is dependent on fatty acid synthesis probably because of acylation of T27. In addition, SpoIIR localization in the forespore septal membrane depends on the presence of SpoIIGA. The orchestration of σE activation in the intercellular space by an acylated signal protein provides a new paradigm to ensure local transmission of a weak signal across the bilayer to control cell–cell communication during development.
Pilot double‐blind, randomized controlled trial of short‐term atorvastatin for prevention of acute kidney injury after cardiac surgery
Authors: PROWLE JOHN R , CALZAVACCA PAOLO , LICARI ELISA , LIGABO EMMANUELA V , ECHEVERRI JORGE E , HAASE MICHAEL , HAASE‐FIELITZ ANJA , BAGSHAW SEAN M , DEVARAJAN PRASAD , BELLOMO RINALDO
Published: November 2011

Aim:  To test whether short‐term perioperative administration of oral atorvastatin could reduce incidence of postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) in cardiac surgical patients.

Methods:  We conducted a double‐blind, randomized controlled trial in 100 cardiac surgical patients at increased risk of postoperative AKI. Patients were randomized to atorvastatin (40 mg once daily for 4 days starting preoperatively) or identical placebo capsule. Primary outcome was to detect a smaller absolute rise in postoperative creatinine with statin therapy. Secondary outcomes included AKI defined by the creatinine criteria of RIFLE consensus classification (RIFLE R, I or F), change in urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) concentration, requirement for renal replacement therapy, length of stay in intensive care, length of stay in hospital and hospital mortality.

Results:  Study groups were well matched. For each patient maximal increase in creatinine during the 5 days after surgery was assessed; median maximal increase was 28 µmol/L in the atorvastatin group and 29.5 µmol/L in the placebo group (P = 0.62). RIFLE R or greater occurred in 26% of patients with atorvastatin and 32% with placebo (P = 0.65). Postoperatively urine NGAL changes were similar (median NGAL : creatinine ratio at intensive care unit admission: atorvastatin group 1503 ng/mg, placebo group 1101 ng/mg; P = 0.22). Treatment was well tolerated and adverse events were similar between groups.

Conclusion:  Short‐term perioperative atorvastatin use was not associated with a reduced incidence of postoperative AKI or smaller increases in urinary NGAL. (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00910221).
Multiple Biosynthetic Trafficking Routes for Apically Secreted Proteins in MDCK Cells
Authors: Mattila Polly E. , Youker Robert T. , Mo Di , Bruns Jennifer R. , Cresawn Kerry O. , Hughey Rebecca P. , Ihrke Gudrun , Weisz Ora A.
Published: November 2011

Many newly synthesized membrane proteins traverse endocytic intermediates en route to the surface in polarized epithelial cells; however, the biosynthetic itinerary of secreted proteins has not been elucidated. We monitored the trafficking route of two secreted proteins with different apical sorting signals: the N‐glycan‐dependent cargo glycosylated growth hormone (gGH) and Ensol, a soluble version of endolyn whose apical sorting is independent of N‐glycans. Both proteins were observed to colocalize in part with apical recycling endosome (ARE) markers. Cargo that lacks an apical targeting signal and is secreted in a nonpolarized manner did not localize to the ARE. Expression of a dominant‐negative mutant of myosin Vb, which disrupts ARE export of glycan‐dependent membrane proteins, selectively inhibited apical release of gGH but not Ensol. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) measurements revealed that gGH in the ARE was less mobile than Ensol, consistent with tethering to a sorting receptor. However, knockdown of galectin‐3 or galectin‐4, lectins implicated in apical sorting, had no effect on the rate or polarity of gGH secretion. Together, our results suggest that apically secreted cargoes selectively access the ARE and are exported via differentially regulated pathways.
Bilateral complicated crown fractures secondary to chin injury: a case report
Authors: Dragstedt Alissa N. , Mixon Robert , Holan Gideon , Guelmann Marcio
Published: November 2011

Abstract –  Traumatic injuries to the chin are not uncommon in children. Nevertheless, crown fractures, which are common sequelae to this type of injury, might be overlooked, especially if dental care is not sought immediately after a visit to a non‐dental facility. The present case report reviews the delayed diagnosis and treatment outcome of a bilateral posterior complicated crown fracture affecting mandibular second primary molars in a young child. Pharmacologic and orthodontic considerations are also discussed in the paper.
Phylogenetic and functional features of the plastid transcription kinase cpCK2 from Arabidopsis signify a role of cysteinyl SH‐groups in regulatory phosphorylation of plastid sigma factors
Authors: Türkeri Hacer , Schweer Jennifer , Link Gerhard
Published: November 2011

A plastidic serine/threonine protein kinase, initially named plastid transcription kinase (PTK) has been implicated in phosphorylation and redox control of chloroplast transcription. This kinase was later renamed as chloroplast casein kinase 2 (cpCK2) because of its physical and functional similarity to nucleocytosolic casein kinase 2 (ncCK2). It shares all four of its cysteine residues with ncCK2 from land plants, while only three of these residues are conserved in algal CK2‐type sequences, and just two in animals. Using bacterial overexpression of cpCK2 from Arabidopsis thaliana, here we show the principal features of this enzyme and assign functional determinants of its role as a transcriptional regulator in vitro. The recombinant protein is capable of using various plant sigma transcription factors as phosphorylation substrates. Electrophoretic mobility shift DNA‐binding assays reveal differential effects of sigma phosphorylation, depending on the factor and the promoter used. Treatment of the kinase with redox‐active reagents indicate a critical involvement of thiol groups in both its enzymatic activity and interaction capabilities. Mutational exchanges of cysteine to serine residues, in combination with in vitro assays, have provided clues to the possible role of individual cysteines. For instance, while Cys4 but not Cys2 is essential for activity, the latter seems to be involved in the formation of intermolecular (regulatory) disulfide bonds.

Structured digital abstract

cpCK2 phosphorylates SaSig2 by protein kinase assay (View interaction)

cpCK2 phosphorylates AtSig6 by protein kinase assay (View interaction)

cpCK2 and cpCK2 bind by comigration in gel electrophoresis (View interaction)

cpCK2 phosphorylates AtSig1 by protein kinase assay (View interaction)

cpCK2 phosphorylates SaSig1 by protein kinase assay (View interaction)
Effects of Lower Limb Reciprocal Pedalling Exercise on Motor Function after Stroke: A Systematic Review of Randomized and Nonrandomized Studies
Authors: Hancock Nicola J. , Shepstone Lee , Winterbotham Will , Pomeroy Valerie
Published: November 2011

This review systematically synthesized current evidence on the effects of lower limb reciprocal pedalling exercise on motor function poststroke. Detailed analysis of single studies in the review revealed multiple instances of heterogeneity including outcome measures; therefore we decided to avoid undertaking a single, potentially misleading meta-analysis. We found that despite beneficial (although nondefinitive) effects on balance, functional independence, and muscle strength, it is not possible to make clinical recommendations that support or refute the use of reciprocal pedalling exercise to enhance recovery of motor function after stroke. Our findings provide proof-of-concept for pedalling interventions and provide a foundation for subsequent research, suggesting a need for further standardized, controlled clinical trials of clearly described pedalling interventions for stroke survivors and with subsequent transparent reported findings.
Technical Comment on “Hydrogen Mapping of the Lunar South Pole Using the LRO Neutron Detector Experiment LEND”
Authors: Lawrence David J. , Eke Vincent R. , Elphic Richard C. , Feldman William C. , Funsten Herbert O. , Prettyman Thomas H. , Teodoro Luis F. A.
Published: November 2011

Based on a study of high-energy epithermal (HEE) neutrons in data from the Lunar Exploration Neutron Detector (LEND) on NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO), the background from HEE neutrons is larger than initially estimated. Claims by Mitrofanov
et al
. (Reports, 22 October 2010, p. 483) of enhanced hydrogen abundance in sunlit portions of the lunar south pole and quantitative hydrogen concentration values in south pole permanently shaded regions are therefore insufficiently supported.
Factors associated with rapid neurological improvement 24 h following intra-arterial thrombolytic treatment for acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Christoforidis Gregorgy , Mohammad Yousef M , Khadir Mohammed , Yang Ming , Slivka Andrew P
Published: November 2011

Background and Purpose

Significant 24 h improvement is the strongest indicator of functional recovery following thrombolytic treatment for acute ischemic stroke. This study sought to analyze factors contributing to rapid neurological improvement (RNI) following intra-arterial thrombolytic treatment (IATT).

Methods

Angiograms and clinical information derived from consecutive patients receiving treatment initiated within 6 h of stroke onset were retrospectively reviewed. RNI was defined as at least 50% 24 h improvement on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score. Logistic regression analysis identified factors associated with RNI. Variables tested included: age, gender, serum glucose, platelet count, pial collateral formation, presenting National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, time to treatment, extent of reperfusion, site and location of occlusion, treatment agent and systolic blood pressure.

Results

Greater than 50% reperfusion of the involved territory, time to treatment within 270 min and good pial collateral formation (large penumbra zone) significantly predicted RNI. RNI occurred in 31% of the 112 patients studied. RNI occurred in 21/26 (80.8%) patients exhibiting all three favorable variables whereas patients with only one favorable variable had a 6.5% chance of RNI. 94% of patients displaying RNI had a modified Rankin Scale score of 2 or less at 3 months compared with 28.6% without RNI.

Conclusions

RNI following IATT for stroke is more likely when at least two of the following are present: good reperfusion, good pial collateral formation and treatment within 4.5 h of symptom onset, and is strongly predictive of 3 month outcomes. Important to clinical management, IATT may need to be reconsidered in patients with poor pial collateral formation if time to treatment exceeds 4.5 h.
Nanoaggregates of Mn(III)tetraperfluorophenylporphyrin: a greener approach for allylic oxidation of olefins
Authors: Aggarwal Amit , Singh Sunaina , Drain Charles M.
Published: November 2011

Organic nanoparticles of metalloporphyrins can be a versatile catalyst for the selective oxidation of alkenes and other hydrocarbons. The catalytic activity of the metalloporphyrin depends on the nature of the central metal atom, peripheral groups, and the architecture of the porphyrin macrocycle. Herein, we report the catalytic activity of organic nanoparticles of 5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorophenyl)porphyrinato manganese(III), Mn (III)TPPF20, for the oxidation of cyclohexene using molecular oxygen as an oxidant in aqueous solvent under ambient conditions. While the solvated metalloporphyrins catalytically oxidize alkenes to the corresponding epoxide with a modest turn-over numbers, ca. 30 nm organic nanoparticles of Mn (III)TPPF20 have enhanced catalytic activity with up to a two-fold greater turn-over number and yields only allylic oxidation products. The activity of organic nanoparticles is slow compared to the solvated metalloporphyrins. These organic nanoparticles catalytic systems facilitate a greener reaction since ca. 89% of the reaction medium is water, molecular oxygen is used in place of man-made oxidants, and the ambient reaction conditions require less energy. This organic nanoparticle catalytic system also avoids using halogenated solvents commonly used in solution phase reactions. The enhanced catalytic activity of these organic nanoparticles is unexpected because the metalloporphyrins in the nanoaggregates are in the close proximity and the turn-over number should diminish by self-oxidative degradation.
Ovine middle cerebral artery characterization and quantification of ultrastructure and other features: changes with development
Authors: Goyal Ravi , Henderson David A. , Chu Nina , Longo Lawrence D.
Published: November 2011

Regulation of tone, blood pressure, and blood flow in the cerebral vasculature is of vital importance, particularly in the developing infant. We tested the hypothesis that, in addition to accretion of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in cell layers with vessel thickening, significant changes in smooth muscle structure, as well as phenotype, extracellular matrix, and membrane proteins, in the media of cerebral arteries (CAs) during the course of late fetal development account for associated changes in contractility. Using transmission electron, confocal, wide-field epifluorescence, and light microscopy, we examined the structure and ultrastructure of CAs. Also, we utilized wire myography, Western immunoblotting, and real-time quantitative PCR to examine several other features of these arteries. We compared the main branch ovine middle CAs of 95- and 140-gestational day (GD) fetuses with those of adults ( n = 5 for each experimental group). We observed a graded increase in phenylephrine- and KCl-induced contractile responses with development. Structurally, lumen diameter, media thickness, and media cross-sectional area increased dramatically from one age group to the next. With maturation, the cross-sectional profiles of CA SMCs changed from flattened bands in the 95-GD fetus to irregular ovoid-shaped fascicles in the 140-GD fetus and adult. We also observed a change in the type of collagen, specific integrin molecules, and several other parameters of SMC morphology with maturation. Ovine CAs at 95 GD appeared morphologically immature and poorly equipped to respond to major hemodynamic adjustments with maturation.
WNK4 inhibits NCC protein expression through MAPK ERK1/2 signaling pathway
Authors: Zhou Bo , Wang Dexuan , Feng Xiuyan , Zhang Yiqian , Wang Yanhui , Zhuang Jieqiu , Zhang Xuemei , Chen Guangping , Delpire Eric , Gu Dingying , Cai Hui
Published: November 2011

WNK [with no lysine (K)] kinase is a subfamily of serine/threonine kinases. Mutations in two members of this family (WNK1 and WNK4) cause pseudohypoaldosteronism type II featuring hypertension, hyperkalemia, and metabolic acidosis. WNK1 and WNK4 were shown to regulate sodium chloride cotransporter (NCC) activity through phosphorylating SPAK and OSR1. Previous studies including ours have also shown that WNK4 inhibits NCC function and its protein expression. A recent study reported that a phorbol ester inhibits NCC function via activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 kinase. In the current study, we investigated whether WNK4 affects NCC via the MAPK ERK1/2 signaling pathway. We found that WNK4 increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation in a dose-dependent manner in mouse distal convoluted tubule (mDCT) cells, whereas WNK4 mutants with the PHA II mutations (E562K and R1185C) lost the ability to increase the ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Hypertonicity significantly increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation in mDCT cells. Knock-down of WNK4 expression by siRNA resulted in a decrease of ERK1/2 phosphorylation. We further showed that WNK4 knock-down significantly increases the cell surface and total NCC protein expressions and ERK1/2 knock-down also significantly increases cell surface and total NCC expression. These data suggest that WNK4 inhibits NCC through activating the MAPK ERK1/2 signaling pathway.
Neural correlates of changing intention in the human FEF and IPS
Authors: Astle Duncan E. , Nixon Elena , Jackson Stephen R. , Jackson Georgina M.
Published: November 2011

Previous research demonstrates that our apparent mental flexibility depends largely on the strength of our prior intention; changing our intention in advance enables a smooth transition from one task to another (e.g., Astle DE, Jackson GM, Swainson R. J Cogn Neurosci 20: 255–267, 2008; Duncan J, Emslie H, Williams P, Johnson R, Freer C. Cogn Psychol 30: 257–303, 1996; Husain M, Parton A, Hodgson TL, Mort D, Rees G. Nat Neurosci 6: 117–118, 2003). However, these necessarily rapid anticipatory mechanisms have been difficult to study in the human brain. We used EEG and magnetoencephalography, specifically event-related potentials and fields (ERPs and ERFs), respectively, to explore the neural correlates of this important aspect of mental flexibility. Subjects performed a manual version of a pro/antisaccade task using preparatory cues to switch between the pro- and antirules. When subjects switched their intention, we observed a positivity over central electrodes, which correlated significantly with our behavioral data; the greater the ERP effect, the stronger the subject's change of intention. ERFs, alongside subject-specific structural MRIs, were used to project into source space. When subjects switched their intention, they showed significantly elevated activity in the right frontal eye field and left intraparietal sulcus (IPS); the greater the left IPS activity on switch trials, the stronger the subject's change of intention. This network has previously been implicated in the top-down control of eye movements, but here we demonstrate its role in the top-down control of a task set, in particular, that it is recruited when we change the task that we intend to perform.
On the Fuzzy Convergence
Authors: Al-Tai Abdul Hameed Q. A.
Published: November 2011

The aim of this paper is to introduce and study the fuzzy neighborhood, the limit fuzzy number, the convergent fuzzy sequence, the bounded fuzzy sequence, and the Cauchy fuzzy sequence on the base which is adopted by Abdul Hameed (every real number r is replaced by a fuzzy number (either triangular fuzzy number or singleton fuzzy set (fuzzy point))). And then, we will consider that some results respect effect of the upper sequence on the convergent fuzzy sequence, the bounded fuzzy sequence, and the Cauchy fuzzy sequence.
Nearly Ternary Quadratic Higher Derivations on Non‐Archimedean Ternary Banach Algebras: A Fixed Point Approach
Authors: Gordji M. Eshaghi , Ghaemi M. B. , Rassias J. M. , Alizadeh Badrkhan
Published: November 2011

We investigate the stability and superstability of ternary quadratic higher derivations in non‐Archimedean ternary algebras by using a version of fixed point theorem via quadratic functional equation.
Adult Diapause in Coleoptera
Authors: Hodek Ivo
Published: November 2011

Recent studies dealing with adult (reproductive) diapause in the Coleoptera are reviewed, as a kind of supplement to the classic compendia. In the first two sections, the general characteristics of adult diapause are described and principal terms explained. Original articles dealing with 19 species from nine coleopteran families (Coccinellidae, Chrysomelidae, Bruchidae, Curculionidae, Carabidae, Silphidae, Scolytidae, Scarabaeidae, and Endomychidae) are reviewed. Finally attempts are made at generalisations from the papers reviewed, and hypotheses on diapause evolution are inferred. A polyphenic character of diapause is a prominent feature inC. septempunctataandL. decemlineata, but has been found also in other Coleoptera and in insects generally and often generates voltinism heterogeneity within populations.
The Role of T-Cell Leukemia Translocation-Associated Gene Protein in Human Tumorigenesis and Osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Kotake Shigeru , Yago Toru , Kawamoto Manabu , Nanke Yuki
Published: November 2011

Synovial tissues of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) include factors regulating bone resorption, such as receptor activator NF-κB ligand (RANKL), TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17, and IFN-γ. However, in addition to these cytokines, other factors expressed in synovial tissues may play a role in regulating bone resorption. In 2009, we demonstrated that novel peptides from T-cell leukemia translocation-associated gene (TCTA) protein expressed in synovial tissues from patients with RA inhibit human osteoclastogenesis, preventing cellular fusion via the interaction between TCTA protein and a putative counterpart molecule. Only a few studies on the role of TCTA protein have been reported. Genomic Southern blots demonstrated a reduced TCTA signal in three of four small cell lung cancer cell lines, suggesting the loss of one of the two copies of the gene. In the current paper, we reviewed the roles of TCTA protein in lung cancer cell lines and human osteoclastogenesis.
Current State-of-Art and New Trends on Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN and NLC) for Oral Drug Delivery
Authors: Severino Patrícia , Andreani Tatiana , Macedo Ana Sofia , Fangueiro Joana F. , Santana Maria Helena A. , Silva Amélia M. , Souto Eliana B.
Published: November 2011

Lipids and lipid nanoparticles are extensively employed as oral-delivery systems for drugs and other active ingredients. These have been exploited for many features in the field of pharmaceutical technology. Lipids usually enhance drug absorption in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), and when formulated as nanoparticles, these molecules improve mucosal adhesion due to small particle size and increasing their GIT residence time. In addition, lipid nanoparticles may also protect the loaded drugs from chemical and enzymatic degradation and gradually release drug molecules from the lipid matrix into blood, resulting in improved therapeutic profiles compared to free drug. Therefore, due to their physiological and biodegradable properties, lipid molecules may decrease adverse side effects and chronic toxicity of the drug-delivery systems when compared to other of polymeric nature. This paper highlights the importance of lipid nanoparticles to modify the release profile and the pharmacokinetic parameters of drugs when administrated through oral route.
Sociology after Fordism: Prospects and problems
Authors: Holmwood John
Published: November 2011

A number of commentators have suggested that the shift from a Fordist to a post-Fordist regime of political economy has had positive consequences for sociology, including the reinforcement of critical sociologies ( Burawoy, 2005 ; Steinmetz, 2005 ). This article argues that, although disciplinary hierarchies have been destabilized, what is emerging is a new form of instrumental knowledge, that of applied interdisciplinary social studies. This development has had a particular impact upon sociology. Savage and Burrows (2007) , for example, argue that sociological knowledge no longer has a privileged claim to authority and is increasingly in competition with social knowledge produced by the private sector and agencies of the public sector. The response of many sociologists to such claims has been to reassert the importance of the discipline as the purveyor of critically relevant knowledge about society. The article traces how the idea of internal critique within sociology has developed to embrace ‘knowing capitalism’ ( Thrift, 2005 ), at the same time as declaring the impossibility of sociological knowledge. The critique of sociology also becomes the critique of critique and what remains is the instrumentalization of knowledge. Where many sociologists continue to claim a special interest in critical knowledge, the article suggests that, in contrast, we potentially confront the problem that such knowledge may itself be facing a crisis of reproduction.
Increased interleukin-1β levels following low dose MDMA induces tolerance against the 5-HT neurotoxicity produced by challenge MDMA
Authors: Mayado Andrea , Torres Elisa , Gutierrez-Lopez Maria D , Colado Maria I , O'Shea Esther
Published: November 2011

Background

Preconditioning is a phenomenon by which tolerance develops to injury by previous exposure to a stressor of mild severity. Previous studies have shown that single or repeated low dose MDMA can attenuate 5-HT transporter loss produced by a subsequent neurotoxic dose of the drug. We have explored the mechanism of delayed preconditioning by low dose MDMA.

Methods

Male Dark Agouti rats were given low dose MDMA (3 mg/kg, i.p.) 96 h before receiving neurotoxic MDMA (12.5 mg/kg, i.p.). IL-1β and IL1ra levels and 5-HT transporter density in frontal cortex were quantified at 1 h, 3 h or 7 days. IL-1β, IL-1ra and IL-1RI were determined between 3 h and 96 h after low dose MDMA. sIL-1RI combined with low dose MDMA or IL-1β were given 96 h before neurotoxic MDMA and toxicity assessed 7 days later.

Results

Pretreatment with low dose MDMA attenuated both the 5-HT transporter loss and elevated IL-1β levels induced by neurotoxic MDMA while producing an increase in IL-1ra levels. Low dose MDMA produced an increase in IL-1β at 3 h and in IL-1ra at 96 h. sIL-1RI expression was also increased after low dose MDMA. Coadministration of sIL-1RI (3 μg, i.c.v.) prevented the protection against neurotoxic MDMA provided by low dose MDMA. Furthermore, IL-1β (2.5 pg, intracortical) given 96 h before neurotoxic MDMA protected against the 5-HT neurotoxicity produced by the drug, thus mimicking preconditioning.

Conclusions

These results suggest that IL-1β plays an important role in the development of delayed preconditioning by low dose MDMA.
The crystal structure of S. cerevisiae Ski2, a DExH helicase associated with the cytoplasmic functions of the exosome
Authors: Halbach Felix , Rode Michaela , Conti Elena
Published: November 2011

Ski2 is a cytoplasmic RNA helicase that functions together with the exosome in the turnover and quality control of mRNAs. Ski2 is conserved in eukaryotes and is related to the helicase Mtr4, a cofactor of the nuclear exosome involved in the processing and quality control of a variety of structured RNAs. We have determined the 2.4 Å resolution crystal structure of the 113 kDa helicase region of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Ski2. The structure shows that Ski2 has an overall architecture similar to that of Mtr4, with a core DExH region and an extended insertion domain. The insertion is not required for the formation of the Ski2–Ski3–Ski8 complex, but is instead an RNA-binding domain. While this is reminiscent of the Mtr4 insertion, there are specific structural and biochemical differences between the two helicases. The insertion of yeast Mtr4 consists of a β-barrel domain that is flexibly attached to a helical stalk, contains a KOW signature motif, and binds in vitro-transcribed tRNAiMet, but not single-stranded RNA. The β-barrel domain of yeast Ski2 does not contain a KOW motif and is tightly packed against the helical stalk, forming a single structural unit maintained by a zinc-binding site. Biochemically, the Ski2 insertion has broad substrate specificity, binding both single-stranded and double-stranded RNAs. We speculate that the Ski2 and Mtr4 insertion domains have evolved with different properties tailored to the type of transcripts that are the substrates of the cytoplasmic and nuclear exosome.