bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new species of the genus Rhabdophis Fitzinger, 1843 (Squamata: Colubridae) from Guangdong Province, southern China
Authors: ZHU GUANG-XIANG , WANG YING-YONG , TAKEUCHI HIROHIKO , ZHAO ER-MI
Published: February 2014

A new species, Rhabdophis guangdongensis sp. nov., is described from the Guangdong Province, China. It can be easily distinguished from other known congeners by cyt b and c-mos sequences, and by the following combination of morphological characters: body size small; head distinct from the neck; 20 maxillary teeth, the three most posterior teeth strongly enlarged, and not separated by diastemata from other teeth; six supralabials, the third and fourth touching the eye; seven infralabials, the first four in contact with anterior chin shields; dorsal scales in 15 rows throughout the body, weakly keeled, the outer row smooth; 126 ventrals; 39 paired subcaudals; anal scale divided; 44 pairs of narrow dorsolateral black cross-bars on body and 15 pairs on tail; body and tail with two dorsolateral longitudinal brownish-red lines, respectively with a series of white spots in cross-bars. The description of this new species brings the total number of described species of this genus to 21 and represents the tenth known Rhabdophis species in China.
A synoptic review of the genus Stagmomantis (Mantodea: Mantidae)
Authors: MAXWELL MICHAEL R.
Published: February 2014

Stagmomantis is a remarkable genus within the Mantodea, being relatively species-rich and geographically widespread.  Yet, the number of species within the genus remains curiously unresolved.  The present synoptic review surveys the literature on Stagmomantis to identify named species for which scientific consensus exists, as well as to summarize basic biological information for each species, including geographic distribution, morphological features, and sex-specific biometric data.  The review identifies 23 consensus taxa within Stagmomantis:  22 separate species, with one of these species, S. montana, split into two subspecies (S. m. montana and S. m. sinaloae).   The review indicates morphological features that may prove to be diagnostic for a given species, particularly when examined in conjunction with male genitalia.  Such features include dark spots on the anterior femur (S. amazonica, S. centralis, S. marginata, S. nahua, S. venusta, S. vicina), spines or denticulations on the anterior coxa (S. colorata, S. montana montana, S. parvidentata, S. theophila), and dark bands on abdominal tergites (S. californica, S. colorata, S. domingensis).  Color variation of certain features with respect to body coloration, such as stigma coloration and body and leg markings, requires more attention. Information on life history, reproduction, and ecology are summarized, particularly for temperate populations of S. carolina and S. limbata.  While the 23 consensus taxa represent a robust appraisal of the existing literature, some taxonomic uncertainties remain.  The status of two species are somewhat unclear (S. marginata and S. tolteca), calling for taxonomic evaluation.  Furthermore, proposed within-genus groupings deserve examination, as do possible subdivisions within some species (e.g., S. limbata, S. parvidentata).  Information on basic morphology and biometry remains incomplete for nearly all species.  Extreme examples are S. amazonica, S. costalis, and S. paraensis, for which females have not been described.  Live animal research on life history, behavior, and ecology is needed for all species, with the possible exceptions of S. carolina and S. limbata.  By reconciling species assignments and consolidating biological information for the 23 consensus taxa, this synoptic review promises to guide subsequent systematic and phylogenetic investigations of the genus Stagmomantis.
Redescription of a poorly known epialtid crab Pugettia pellucens Rathbun, 1932 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura: Majoidea) and description of a new species from Sagami Bay, Japan
Authors: OHTSUCHI NAOYA , KAWAMURA TOMOHIKO , TAKEDA MASATSUNE
Published: February 2014

A poorly known epialtid crab species, Pugettia pellucens Rathbun, 1932, is redescribed and a closely allied new species P. vulgaris n. sp. is described and illustrated on the basis of material from Sagami Bay, Japan. Pugettia pellucens was originally described as a subspecies of P. quadridens (De Haan, 1839), but it is confirmed that the taxon is distinct from P. quadridens. The superficially similar Pugettia vulgaris n. sp. can be distinguished from P. pellucens by several morphological characters. The new species is also similar to P. elongata Yokoya, 1933, and P. intermedia Sakai, 1938, but can also be separated by various carapace and gonopodal characters.
New species of Creagrutus Günther (Characiformes: Characidae) from rio Tapajós basin, Brazil, with comments on its phylogenetic position
Authors: DAGOSTA FERNANDO CESAR PAIVA , PASTANA MURILO NOGUEIRA DE LIMA
Published: February 2014

Creagrutus nigrotaeniatus n. sp. is described from the rio Juruena basin, upper rio Tapajós system, Mato Grosso State, Brazil. Creagrutus nigrotaeniatus differs from its congeners by having the dentigerous surface of the premaxilla longitudinally elongate from ventral view, 4–5 post-anal scales and 2–4 maxillary teeth. The new species also has the anterior margin of hyomandibula straight or slightly concave which is a unique condition within the genus, and possesses a series of non-exclusive osteological modifications (e.g. medial opening of the dentary foramen located distinctly anteroventral to the tip of Meckel’s cartilage; anterior portion of the laterosensory canal segment in first infraorbital terminating distinctly posterior to the anterior margin of this bone; presence of the third posttemporal fossa within the epioccipital; one epural present). A comparison with Caiapobrycon tucurui is provided and the placement of the new species within Creagrutus and its close relationship with C. cracentis, C. gephyrus, and C. maxillaris are discussed.
Revision of the genus Delenda Croissandeau, 1891 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae)
Authors: BEKCHIEV ROSTISLAV , BRACHAT VOLKER
Published: February 2014

The genus Delenda Croissandeau, 1891 is revised and redescribed. The taxonomic position of the Delenda frivaldszkyi Reitter, 1893 is discussed, and its species status is resurrected. Delenda carthago Croissandeau, 1891, and D. frivaldszkyi Reitter, 1893 are redescribed. One new species D. rhodopensis sp. n. is described.
Distribution of Acanthephyra brevicarinata Hanamura, 1984 and A. brevirostris Smith, 1885 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Caridea: Acanthephyridae), in Pacific Mexico
Authors: HENDRICKX MICHEL E. , RÍOS-ELÓSEGUI DANIELA
Published: February 2014

Two species of the Acanthephyridae, Acanthephyra brevicarinata Hanamura, 1984, and A. brevirostris Smith, 1885, are reported for the Pacific coast of Mexico. The number of known localities for A. brevicarinata, a species endemic to the eastern Pacific, is increased from 24 to 70 and the number of specimens on records from 160 to 363. New distribution limits are provided for this species, from 25°02’N; 112°54’W to 16°58’N; 100°55’W, including the central and northern Gulf of California from 28°01’N; 112°17’W southwards. Based on previous information related to its capture and the morphology of its first larval stage, A. brevicarinata is considered to be part of the nektobenthic fauna. New records for A. brevirostris confirm its presence within the Gulf of California.
Neck Myoclonia With Absence Seizures in an Indian Girl
Authors: Jain Puneet , Sharma Suvasini , Aneja Satinder
Published: February 2014

Absence seizures associated with myoclonic phenomena have been associated with 4 seizure types. Recently, a new seizure type of neck myoclonia with absences was described. We present a case of 9-year-old girl who presented with abnormal head shaking and vacant stare for the past 5 months with an ictal electroencephalograph (EEG) record showing 3-Hz spike-and-wave discharges. The seizures were easily controlled with valproate and clobazam. Neck myoclonia with absences might be a new idiopathic generalized epilepsy syndrome in development.
The Superior Longitudinal Fasciculus in Typically Developing Children and Adolescents
Authors: Urger Sacide E. , De Bellis Michael D. , Hooper Stephen R. , Woolley Donald P. , Chen Steven D. , Provenzale James
Published: February 2014

The relationship between superior longitudinal fasciculus microstructural integrity and neuropsychological functions were examined in 49 healthy children (range: 5-17 years) using diffusion tensor imaging. Seven major cognitive domains (intelligence, fine-motor, attention, language, visual-spatial, memory, executive function) were assessed. Data analyses used correlational methods. After adjusting for age and gender, fractional anisotropy and axial diffusivity values in the superior longitudinal fasciculus were positively correlated with executive functions of set shifting, whereas left superior longitudinal fasciculus fractional anisotropy values correlated with attention and language. Apparent diffusion coefficient values in the left superior longitudinal fasciculus negatively correlated with inhibitory control. In the left arcuate fasciculus, fractional anisotropy correlated with IQ and attention, whereas radial diffusivity values negatively correlated with IQ, fine-motor skills, and expressive language. Findings from this study provide an examination of the relationship between superior longitudinal fasciculus integrity and children’s neuropsychological abilities that can be useful in monitoring pediatric neurologic diseases.
Biomarker time out
Authors: Petzold Axel , Bowser Robert , Calabresi Paolo , Zetterberg Henrik , Uitdehaag Bernard MJ
Published: February 2014

The advancement of knowledge relies on scientific investigations. The timing between asking a question and data collection defines if a study is prospective or retrospective. Prospective studies look forward from a point in time, are less prone to bias and are considered superior to retrospective studies.

This conceptual framework conflicts with the nature of biomarker research. New candidate biomarkers are discovered in a retrospective manner. There are neither resources nor time for prospective testing in all cases. Relevant sources for bias are not covered. Ethical questions arise through the time penalty of an overly dogmatic concept.

The timing of sample collection can be separated from testing biomarkers. Therefore the moment of formulating a hypothesis may be after sample collection was completed. A conceptual framework permissive to asking research questions without the obligation to bow to the human concept of calendar time would simplify biomarker research, but will require new safeguards against bias.
Supporting self-management of obesity using a novel game architecture
Authors: Giabbanelli Philippe J , Crutzen Rik
Published: February 2014

Obesity has commonly been addressed using a ‘one size fits all’ approach centred on a combination of diet and exercise. This has not succeeded in halting the obesity epidemic, as two-thirds of American adults are now obese or overweight. Practitioners are increasingly highlighting that one’s weight is shaped by myriad factors, suggesting that interventions should be tailored to the specific needs of individuals. Health games have potential to provide such tailored approach. However, they currently tend to focus on communicating and/or reinforcing knowledge, in order to suscitate learning in the participants. We argue that it would be equally, if not more valuable, that games learn from participants using recommender systems. This would allow treatments to be comprehensive, as games can deduce from the participants’ behaviour which factors seem to be most relevant to his or her weight and focus on them. We introduce a novel game architecture and discuss its implications on facilitating the self-management of obesity.
A Promising Approach to Narrowing the School-to-Prison Pipeline
Authors: Fader Jamie J. , Lockwood Brian , Schall Victoria L. , Stokes Benjamin
Published: February 2014

Recent dramatic increases in the number of youth arrested for nonserious behavior in schools have led some jurisdictions to search for solutions to the “school-to-prison pipeline.” In this article, we evaluate the WISE arrest diversion program in Utica, New York. We use a mixed-methods evaluation design including: (1) a pre–post program comparison of school conduct by participants, (2) a pre–post program comparison of school-based arrests at Upstate High School, (3) a multivariate analysis that estimates the influence of the WISE program on school-based arrests while controlling for citywide juvenile arrests and the passage of time, and (4) interviews conducted with students, program staff, and stakeholders. Although the program appeared more successful in reducing Upstate High School’s reliance on arrest than in improving school conduct among participants, results suggest that the WISE arrest diversion program contains promising elements and lessons for narrowing the school-to-prison pipeline.
From Bullied to Deviant
Authors: DeCamp Whitney , Newby Brian
Published: February 2014

Although much research has explored bullies and bullying victims, little has been done to explore the long-term effects on those who have been bullied. Separately, a growing body of evidence suggests that there is a victim–offender overlap, in which many victims are or become offenders themselves. Taken together, this suggests that bullying victims may themselves be at elevated risk of involvement in deviance or crime. The present study uses data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 to explore this issue, utilizing propensity score matching to control for the shared predictors of offending and victimization. Given that bullying experiences can vary dramatically by gender, gender-specific analyses are performed. Results indicate that controlling for the propensity to be bullied reduces, but does not eliminate, the effect on later criminality.
Right from primary school, I liked science: understanding health research capacity building in sub-Saharan Africa through Kenyan training experiences
Authors: Daniels Joseph , Nduati Ruth , Farquhar Carey
Published: February 2014

Defining research career paths that enable Africans to address local and global health issues is essential for population health. This study was conducted to better understand how international health training programs contribute to human resource capacity building in health research. Research career motivations, decision-making and experiences were explored among a small group of Kenyan HIV/AIDS researchers who had completed an international training program. We found that intersecting social dynamics within specific geographic spaces influenced individual training decision-making and motivated research career decisions over time. The concept that ‘geo-social motivation’ is an important determinant of success for an African considering a research career developed from this study, and may be used to tailor future health research human resource capacity-building programs.
Control of VWF A2 domain stability and ADAMTS13 access to the scissile bond of full-length VWF
Authors: Lynch Christopher J. , Lane David A. , Luken Brenda M.
Published: February 2014

Key Points

The vicinal disulphide bond and occupancy of its Ca2+-binding site cooperatively determine the stability of the VWF A2 domain. These 2 structural elements control the susceptibility of FL-VWF to proteolysis by ADAMTS13.
Anaphylaxis caused by repetitive doses of a GITR agonist monoclonal antibody in mice
Authors: Murphy Judith T. , Burey Andre P. , Beebe Amy M. , Gu Danling , Presta Leonard G. , Merghoub Taha , Wolchok Jedd D.
Published: February 2014

Key Points

Repeated doses of agonist antibodies targeting the costimulatory receptors GITR and OX40 result in anaphylaxis in mice. Anaphylaxis caused by the GITR agonist antibody DTA-1 is dependent on GITR, IL-4, basophils, and platelet-activating factor.
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles mediated 131I-hVEGF siRNA inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma tumor growth in nude mice
Authors: Chen Jing , Zhu Shu , Tong Liangqian , Li Jiansha , Chen Fei , Han Yunfeng , Zhao Ming , Xiong Wei
Published: February 2014

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver tumor and is the most difficult human malignancy to treat. In this study, we sought to develop an integrative approach in which real-time tumor monitoring, gene therapy, and internal radiotherapy can be performed simultaneously. This was achieved through targeting HCC with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIOs) carrying small interfering RNA with radiolabled iodine 131 (131I) against the human vascular endothelial growth factor (hVEGF).

Methods

hVEGF siRNA was labeled with 131I by the Bolton-Hunter method and conjugated to SilenceMag, a type of SPIOs. 131I-hVEGF siRNA/SilenceMag was then subcutaneously injected into nude mice with HCC tumors exposed to an external magnetic field (EMF). The biodistribution and cytotoxicity of 131I-hVEGF siRNA/SilenceMag was assessed by SPECT (Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography) and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) studies and blood kinetics analysis. The body weight and tumor size of nude mice bearing HCC were measured daily for the 4-week duration of the experiment.

Results

131I-hVEGF siRNA/SilenceMag was successfully labeled; with a satisfactory radiochemical purity (>80%) and biological activity in vitro. External application of an EMF successfully attracted and retained more 131I-hVEGF siRNA/SilenceMag in HCC tumors as shown by SPECT, MRI and biodistribution studies. The tumors treated with 131I-hVEGF siRNA/SilenceMag grew nearly 50% slower in the presence of EMF than those without EMF and the control. Immunohistochemical assay confirmed that the tumor targeted by 131I-hVEGF siRNA/SilenceMag guided by an EMF had a lower VEGF protein level compared to that without EMF exposure and the control.

Conclusions

EMF-guided 131I-hVEGF siRNA/SilenceMag exhibited an antitumor effect. The synergic therapy of 131I-hVEGF siRNA/SilenceMag might be a promising future treatment option against HCC with the dual functional properties of tumor therapy and imaging.
Causes of death and associated risk factors among climacteric women from Southern Brazil: a population based-study
Authors: Colpani Verônica , Oppermann Karen , Spritzer Poli Mara
Published: February 2014

Background

Aging and menopause are particular cardiovascular risk factors for women, due to estrogen deprivation at the time of menopause. Studies show that diabetes mellitus (DM), smoking, hypertension, high body mass index (BMI), and serum lipids are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), the main cause of female mortality in Brazil. The aim of this study was to assess the mortality rate, causes of death and associated risk factors in a cohort of women from Brazil.

Methods

A longitudinal population-based study of menopausal status is currently underway in a city in South Brazil. In 2010, a third follow-up of this population was performed to assess cardiovascular risk and mortality rate between 1995 and 2011. For this analysis, 358 participants were studied. At baseline, participants had completed a standardized questionnaire including demographic, lifestyle, medical and reproductive characteristics. In addition to the contacts with relatives, mortality data were obtained through review of medical records in all city hospitals and the Center for Health Information (NIS/RS-SES). Multivariate-adjusted hazard risk (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI95%) were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression. Survival curves were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier curve.

Results

There were 17 (4.7%) deaths from all causes during the study period. Seven (41.2%) deaths were caused by CVD, including four cases of stroke and three cases of myocardial infarction. Six (35.3%) deaths were due to cancer, and four (23.5%) were due to other reasons. In the age and smoking-adjusted multivariate models, diabetes (HR 6.645, 95% CI: 1.938–22.79, p = 0.003), alcohol intake (HR 1.228, 95% CI: 1.014-1.487, p = 0.035) and postmenopausal status (HR = 6.216, 95% CI: 0.963–40.143, p = 0.055) were associated with all-cause mortality. A significant association was found between abdominal obesity (WHR ≥ 0.85) and mortality even after the adjustment for BMI (HR = 9.229, 95% IC: 2.083–41.504, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

CVD was an important cause of mortality in this cohort and DM and/or central adiposity were associated with all-cause mortality. Lifestyle and dietary factors seem to be related to risk of mortality in middle-aged women.
Differences in virulence of pneumolysin and autolysin mutants constructed by insertion duplication mutagenesis and in-frame deletion in Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Liu Esther Yip-Mei , Chang Feng-Yee , Chang Jen-Chang , Fung Chang-Phone
Published: February 2014

Background

Insertion duplication mutagenesis (IDM) and in-frame deletion (IFD) are common techniques for studying gene function, and have been applied to pneumolysin (ply), a virulence gene in Streptococcus pneumoniae (D39). Discrepancies in virulence between the two techniques were observed in both the previous and present studies. This phenomenon was also observed during mutation analysis of autolysin (lytA).

Results

Our data showed that target gene restoration (TGR) occurred in IDM mutants, even in the presence of antibiotics, while the IFD mutants were stable. In PCR result, TGR occurred later in IDM-ply and -lytA mutants cultured in non-supplemented medium (4–5 h) compared with those grown in medium supplemented with erythromycin (erm)/chloramphenicol (cat) (3–4 h), but plateaued faster. Real-time PCR for detecting TGR had been performed. When compared with 8-h culture, TGR detection increased from Day 1 and Day 2 of IDM mutant’s culture. erm-sensitive clones from IDM mutant were found. Southern blot hybridization and Western blotting also confirmed the phenomenon of TGR. The median survival of mice following intraperitoneal (IP) injection with a 3-h culture of IDM-mutants was significantly longer than that with an 8-h culture, irrespective of antibiotic usage. The median survival time of mice following IP injection of a 3-h culture versus an 8-h culture of IDM-ply in the absence of antibiotics was 10 days versus 2 days (p = 0.031), respectively, while in the presence of erm, the median survival was 5 days versus 2.5 days (p = 0.037), respectively. For an IDM-lytA mutant, the corresponding values were 8.5 days versus 2 days (p = 0.019), respectively, for non-supplemented medium, and 2.5 versus 2 days (p = 0.021), respectively, in the presence of cat. A comparable survival rate was observed between WT D39 and an 8-h IDM culture.

Conclusion

TGR in IDM mutants should be monitored to avoid inconsistent results, and misinterpretation of data due to TGR could lead to important biological meaning being overlooked. Therefore, based on these results, IFD is preferable to IDM for disruption of target genes.
Zyflamend, a polyherbal mixture, down regulates class I and class II histone deacetylases and increases p21 levels in castrate-resistant prostate cancer cells
Authors: Huang E-Chu , Zhao Yi , Chen Guoxun , Baek Seung Joon , McEntee Michael F , Minkin Steven , Biggerstaff John P , Whelan Jay
Published: February 2014

Background

Zyflamend, a mixture containing extracts of ten herbs, has shown promise in a variety of preclinical cancer models, including prostate cancer. The current experiments were designed to investigate the effects of Zyflamend on the expression of class I and II histone deacetylases, a family of enzymes known to be over expressed in a variety of cancers.

Methods

CWR22Rv1 cells, a castrate-resistant prostate cancer cell line, were treated with Zyflamend and the expression of class I and II histone deacetylases, along with their downstream target the tumor suppressor gene p21, was investigated. Involvement of p21 was confirmed with siRNA knockdown and over expression experiments.

Results

Zyflamend down-regulated the expression of all class I and II histone deacetylases where Chinese goldthread and baikal skullcap (two of its components) appear to be primarily responsible for these results. In addition, Zyflamend up regulated the histone acetyl transferase complex CBP/p300, potentially contributing to the increase in histone 3 acetylation. Expression of the tumor suppressor gene p21, a known downstream target of histone deacetylases and CBP/p300, was increased by Zyflamend treatment and the effect on p21 was, in part, mediated through Erk1/2. Knockdown of p21 with siRNA technology attenuated Zyflamend-induced growth inhibition. Over expression of p21 inhibited cell growth and concomitant treatment with Zyflamend enhanced this effect.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the extracts of this polyherbal combination increase histone 3 acetylation, inhibit the expression of class I and class II histone deacetylases, increase the activation of CBP/p300 and inhibit cell proliferation, in part, by up regulating p21 expression.
On mappings with φ-contractive iterate at a point on generalized metric spaces
Authors: Gajić Ljiljana , Stojaković Mila
Published: February 2014

We prove a set of fixed point theorems for mappings with φ-contractive iterate at a point in a class of generalized metric spaces. This is a generalization of some well-known results for Guseman and Matkowski types of fixed point results in metric and generalized metric spaces.

MSC:47H10, 54H25.
Common fixed points for weak commutative mappings on a multiplicative metric space
Authors: He Xiaoju , Song Meimei , Chen Danping
Published: February 2014

In this paper, we discuss the unique common fixed point of two pairs of weak commutative mappings on a complete multiplicative metric space. They satisfy the following inequality:

d
(
S
x
,
T
y
)
≤

{
max
{
d
(
A
x
,
B
y
)
,
d
(
A
x
,
S
x
)
,
d
(
B
y
,
T
y
)
,
d
(
S
x
,
B
y
)
,
d
(
A
x
,
T
y
)
}
}

λ

, where A and S are weak commutative, B and T also are weak commutative. Our results substantially generalize and extend the results of Özavsar and Cevikel (Fixed point of multiplicative contraction mappings on multiplicative metric space).

MSC:46B20, 47A12.
An online tool for mapping insecticide resistance in major Anopheles vectors of human malaria parasites and review of resistance status for the Afrotropical region
Authors: Knox Tessa B , Juma Elijah O , Ochomo Eric O , Pates Jamet Helen , Ndungo Laban , Chege Patrick , Bayoh Nabie M , N’Guessan Raphael , Christian Riann N , Hunt Richard H , Coetzee Maureen
Published: February 2014

Background

Malaria control programmes across Africa and beyond are facing increasing insecticide resistance in the major anopheline vectors. In order to preserve or prolong the effectiveness of the main malaria vector interventions, up-to-date and easily accessible insecticide resistance data that are interpretable at operationally-relevant scales are critical. Herein we introduce and demonstrate the usefulness of an online mapping tool, IR Mapper.

Methods

A systematic search of published, peer-reviewed literature was performed and Anopheles insecticide susceptibility and resistance mechanisms data were extracted and added to a database after a two-level verification process. IR Mapper (http://www.irmapper.com) was developed using the ArcGIS for JavaScript Application Programming Interface and ArcGIS Online platform for exploration and projection of these data.

Results

Literature searches yielded a total of 4,084 susceptibility data points for 1,505 populations, and 2,097 resistance mechanisms data points for 1,000 populations of Anopheles spp. tested via recommended WHO methods from 54 countries between 1954 and 2012. For the Afrotropical region, data were most abundant for populations of An. gambiae, and pyrethroids and DDT were more often used in susceptibility assays (51.1 and 26.8% of all reports, respectively) than carbamates and organophosphates. Between 2001 and 2012, there was a clear increase in prevalence and distribution of confirmed resistance of An. gambiae s.l. to pyrethroids (from 41 to 87% of the mosquito populations tested) and DDT (from 64 to 91%) throughout the Afrotropical region. Metabolic resistance mechanisms were detected in western and eastern African populations and the two kdr mutations (L1014S and L1014F) were widespread. For An. funestus s.l., relatively few populations were tested, although in 2010–2012 resistance was reported in 50% of 10 populations tested. Maps are provided to illustrate the use of IR Mapper and the distribution of insecticide resistance in malaria vectors in Africa.

Conclusions

The increasing pyrethroid and DDT resistance in Anopheles in the Afrotropical region is alarming. Urgent attention should be afforded to testing An. funestus populations especially for metabolic resistance mechanisms. IR Mapper is a useful tool for investigating temporal and spatial trends in Anopheles resistance to support the pragmatic use of insecticidal interventions.
Familial testicular germ cell tumor: no associated syndromic pattern identified
Authors: Mueller Christine M , Korde Larissa A , McMaster Mary L , Peters June A , Bratslavsky Gennady , Watkins Rissah J , Ling Alex , Kratz Christian P , Wulfsberg Eric A , Rosenberg Philip S , Greene Mark H
Published: February 2014

Background

Testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) is the most common malignancy in young men. Familial clustering, epidemiologic evidence of increased risk with family or personal history, and the association of TGCT with genitourinary (GU) tract anomalies have suggested an underlying genetic predisposition. Linkage data have not identified a rare, highly-penetrant, single gene in familial TGCT (FTGCT) cases. Based on its association with congenital GU tract anomalies and suggestions that there is an intrauterine origin to TGCT, we hypothesized the existence of unrecognized dysmorphic features in FTGCT.

Methods

We evaluated 38 FTGCT individuals and 41 first-degree relatives from 22 multiple-case families with detailed dysmorphology examinations, physician-based medical history and physical examination, laboratory testing, and genitourinary imaging studies.

Results

The prevalence of major abnormalities and minor variants did not significantly differ between either FTGCT individuals or their first-degree relatives when compared with normal population controls, except for tall stature, macrocephaly, flat midface, and retro-/micrognathia. However, these four traits were not manifest as a constellation of features in any one individual or family. We did detect an excess prevalence of the genitourinary anomalies cryptorchidism and congenital inguinal hernia in our population, as previously described in sporadic TGCT, but no congenital renal, retroperitoneal or mediastinal anomalies were detected.

Conclusions

Overall, our study did not identify a constellation of dysmorphic features in FTGCT individuals, which is consistent with results of genetic studies suggesting that multiple low-penetrance genes are likely responsible for FTGCT susceptibility.
Free amino acid content in breast milk of adolescent and adult mothers in Ecuador
Authors: Baldeón Manuel E , Mennella Julie A , Flores Nancy , Fornasini Marco , San Gabriel Ana
Published: February 2014

Because of increased incidence of teenage births and high prevalence of lactation in Latin America, we determined the patterning of free amino acids (FAAs) in breast milk of 65 primiparous Ecuadorian women of varying ages (14–27 years). An automatic amino acid analyzer quantified levels of FAAs in milk samples obtained at three lactation stages: colostrum, transition, and mature milk. Regardless of mother’s age, most FAAs increased with time postpartum, with taurine, glutamic acid, glutamine, and alanine being most abundant in all stages.
Effect of ambient storage on the quality characteristics of aerobically packaged fish curls incorporated with different flours
Authors: Raja Waseem Hussain , Kumar Sunil , Bhat Zuhaib Fayaz , Kumar Pavan
Published: February 2014

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of ambient storage on the quality attributes of aerobically packaged fish curls incorporated with optimum levels of different flours. The curls were developed by extrusion technology using fish meat (Catla catla). The fish curls containing optimum levels of different flours viz. 20 percent corn flour, 10 percent black gram flour and 10 percent peanut flour were compared with the control snacks containing 30 percent rice flour and assessed for storage quality and shelf life at ambient temperature. The curls were aerobically packaged in LDPE (low density polyethylene) pouches and evaluated for various physicochemical, microbiological and sensory parameters. Mean values of pH of all the curls showed significantly (p < 0.05) decreasing trend with increasing days of storage (6.34 ± 0.01 on day 0 and 5.90 ± 0.005 on day 28 for control samples, 6.41 ± 0.009 on day 0 and 6.11 ± 0.02 on day 28 for corn flour incorporated samples, 6.36 ± 0.01 on day 0 and 6.14 ± 0.01 on day 28 for black gram flour incorporated samples, 6.57 ± 0.007 on day 0 and 6.34 ± 0.01 on day 28 for peanut flour incorporated samples). TBARS (mg malonaldehyde/kg), total plate count (log cfu/g) and yeast and mould count (log cfu/g) for the control as well as treatment samples showed significantly (p < 0.05) increasing trend with storage. Coliform counts (log cfu/g) were not detected until day 28 in all the products. The mean scores of sensory parameters i.e. appearance and colour, flavor, crispiness, texture and overall acceptability for control as well as treatment samples showed significantly (p < 0.05) decreasing trend with storage period. The decrease was significantly (p < 0.05) highest on 21st and 28th day of storage. The mean values for all the quality and storage parameters up to the day 21 of the storage were within the acceptable limits. Thus, based on various physicochemical and sensory parameters, the curls incorporated with optimum level of different flours were acceptable up to 21 days of ambient storage within the LDPE pouches.
Neutrophils mediate edema formation but not mechanical allodynia during zymosan-induced inflammation
Authors: Suo Jing , Linke Bona , Meyer dos Santos Sascha , Pierre Sandra , Stegner David , Zhang Dong Dong , Denis Cecile V , Geisslinger Gerd , Nieswandt Bernhard , Scholich Klaus
Published: February 2014

Inflammatory pain is based on stimulation and sensitization of peripheral endings of sensory neurons (nociceptors) by pronociceptive mediators. These mediators can be released by resident cells, as well as invading immune cells. Although neutrophils are known to release various mediators, which can stimulate or sensitize nociceptors, the extent of their contribution to nociceptive responses is unclear. Here, we studied the contribution of neutrophils to zymosan-induced inflammatory pain, which is characterized by an early recruitment of high numbers of neutrophils. Surprisingly, antibody-mediated neutrophil depletion caused a complete loss of edema formation but had no effect on mechanical pain thresholds. Blockage of the interaction between neutrophils and platelets or endothelial cells using antibodies directed against CD11b and CD162 reduced neutrophil recruitment to the site of inflammation. Again, the treatment decreased zymosan-induced edemas without altering mechanical pain thresholds. Also, HLB-219 mice, which have five to 10 times less platelets than WT mice, showed reduced neutrophil recruitment to the site of inflammation and decreased edema sizes, whereas, again, mechanical thresholds were unaltered. The effects observed in HLB-219 mice were relatively small and not reproduced in vWF-deficient mice or after antibody-mediated blockage of GPIbα. Flow chamber and transmigration assays showed that platelets were not necessary for neutrophil adhesion to endothelial cells but increased their transmigration. Taken together, zymosan-induced mechanical allodynia is, in contrast to edema formation, independent of neutrophils, and recruitment of neutrophils is only partly influenced by interactions with platelets.
Three-dimensional distribution of igneous rocks near the Pebble porphyry Cu-Au-Mo deposit in southwestern Alaska: Constraints from regional-scale aeromagnetic data
Authors: Anderson Eric D. , Zhou Wei , Li Yaoguo , Hitzman Murray W. , Monecke Thomas , Lang James R. , Kelley Karen D.
Published: February 2014

Aeromagnetic data helped us to understand the 3D distribution of plutonic rocks near the Pebble porphyry copper deposit in southwestern Alaska, USA. Magnetic susceptibility measurements showed that rocks in the Pebble district are more magnetic than rocks of comparable compositions in the Pike Creek–Stuyahok Hills volcano-plutonic complex. The reduced-to-pole transformation of the aeromagnetic data demonstrated that the older rocks in the Pebble district produce strong magnetic anomaly highs. The tilt derivative transformation highlighted northeast-trending lineaments attributed to Tertiary volcanic rocks. Multiscale edge detection delineated near-surface magnetic sources that are mostly outward dipping and coalesce at depth in the Pebble district. The total horizontal gradient of the 10-km upward-continued magnetic data showed an oval, deep magnetic contact along which porphyry deposits occur. Forward and inverse magnetic modeling showed that the magnetic rocks in the Pebble district extend to depths greater than 9 km. Magnetic inversion was constrained by a near-surface, 3D geologic model that is attributed with measured magnetic susceptibilities from various rock types in the region. The inversion results indicated that several near-surface magnetic sources with moderate susceptibilities converge with depth into magnetic bodies with higher susceptibilities. This deep magnetic source appeared to rise toward the surface in several areas. An isosurface value of 0.02 SI was used to depict the magnetic contact between outcropping granodiorite and nonmagnetic sedimentary host rocks. The contact was shown to be outward dipping. At depths around 5 km, nearly the entire model exceeded the isosurface value indicating the limits of nonmagnetic host material. The inversion results showed the presence of a relatively deep, northeast-trending magnetic low that parallels lineaments mapped by the tilt derivative. This deep low represents a strand of the Lake Clark fault.
Mining Shakespeare: Fred Wilson’s Visual Translations of Othello
Authors: Erickson Peter
Published: February 2014

Shakespeare is a cultural institution whose racial structures Fred Wilson began mining in his exhibition, Speak of Me as I Am, at the Venice Biennale in 2003. As the quotation from Othello’s concluding speech signals, Wilson initially focused on the play’s black figure. Wilson’s next step, Iago’s Mirror (2009), shifts attention to Othello’s nemesis. The mirror’s silence corresponds to Iago’s refusal to talk announced in his final statement: “From this time forth I never will speak word.” How does Wilson’s mirror speak, and what critical perspective does it imply toward the racial dynamic of Shakespeare’s plot? By using visual art to intervene in a literary classic, Wilson’s work performs an excavation that disrupts the conventional response to Shakespeare’s tragic script and opens up new possibilities for revisionary interpretations capable of transforming our view of the racial drama Othello enacts.
Geometrical Nonlinear Analysis of Tensegrity Based on a Co-Rotational Method
Authors: Faroughi Shirko , Lee Jaehong
Published: February 2014

Tensegrities are structures whose integrity is based on a balance between tension and compression. A numerical procedure is presented for the geometrical nonlinear analysis of tensegrity structures. This approach is based on a co-rotational method where the major component of geometrical non-linearity is treated by a co-rotational filter. This is achieved by separating rigid body motions from deformational displacements. The outcomes evince that the efficiency of the co-rotational approach is considerably greater than those using total Lagrangian and updated Lagrangian formulations for space rod elements, which have more rigid body movement modes than deformational modes. Numerical examples illustrate that the displacements of tensegrity systems depend on the applied force density coefficient and external loading values. Furthermore, in the analysis of tensegrity structures, constraints such as the yield strength of all elements and zero stiffness of string elements becoming slack at any equilibrium configuration must be allowed for.
Stirrup effects on compressive strength and ductility of confined concrete columns
Authors: Radnic Jure , Markic Radoslav , Harapin Alen , Matesan Domagoj , Baloevic Goran
Published: February 2014

The results of experimental testing of stirrup effects on compressive strength and ductility of axially loaded confined reinforced concrete columns of rectangular cross-section are presented. Effects of different concrete strengths, different stirrup bar diameters and different stirrup spacing on column's bearing capacity and ductility have been researched.
Effect of variation in SiC loading, current density and bath temperature on coating thickness and tensile strength of Ni-SiC nanocomposite coatings
Authors: Sharma K. , Seethagirisha A.
Published: February 2014

The mechanical properties like hardness, tensile strength, wear resistance of electro-co-deposited Ni-SiC coatings are dependent on factors like bath temperature, current density, duration of deposition, amount of SiC particles etc. Ni-SiC nano composite coatings were prepared on a mild steel substrate by electro-co-deposition process. In this study, the effect of electrochemical bath parameters such as bath temperature, current density and SiC loading were varied and effect of this variation on the coating thickness and tensile strength of Ni-SiC composite coating was studied. The experimental results showed that, a uniform deposit thickness was obtained for 3 A/dm2 current density, temperature of 55°C and loading of 4 g/l. A peak value of coating thickness was observed at a current density of 4 A/dm2 from the experiment. The experimental results also showed that, the tensile strength of the composite coating containing SiC the is significantly higher than pure Ni coating and the tensile strength increases with an increase in the percentage of SiC particles in Ni-SiC coatings. The tensile strength of the composite coating increased by nearly about 52% with increasing SiC loading and then decreased.
Comprehensive development and associated cobalt from Hanxing iron ore tailings
Authors: Meng Zhiqiang , Chu Yingjun , Zhang Zijian , Tian Xiaolong
Published: February 2014

Cobalt is an extremely useful element, but there are very few separate cobalt deposits in China and imported cobalt ores are usually toxic. In order to develop more low-toxicity cobalt resources, China has to encourage exploration and development of this element. Samples are taken from Hanxing iron ore tailings and analyzed by ICP-MS and barium chloride titration experiments. The results indicate that the cobalt content is relatively high in Hanxing iron ore tailings, and some exceed the industrial grade. Therefore, with the depletion of cobalt resources, iron ore tailings are bound to become an important resource in China, and as these tailings are abundant in the Hanxing area, this area is expected to be of high development value.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation on Hydrodynamic Response of Spar with Wind Turbine under Regular Waves
Authors: Nallayarasu S. , Saravanapriya S.
Published: February 2014

The necessity of offshore wind turbines to generate wind power is multifold and well known. The focus of offshore based wind farms are mainly due to abundant availability of unobstructed wind power and land use restriction. Therefore, the development of floating type supports for offshore wind turbines is getting more attention. In this paper the experimental and numerical investigation on the motion response of Spar supporting the wind turbine under regular waves is presented. The experiments were conducted in three stages viz. (a) Spar with stationary wind turbine under regular waves. b) Spar with rotating wind turbine under calm sea conditions. c) Spar with rotating turbine under regular waves. Numerical simulation of the Spar response due to incident waves and the wind turbine torque is carried out using AQWA software. The results obtained from experiments are then compared with that obtained from numerical analysis. The measured Response Amplitude Operator (RAO) compares well with that obtained from numerical analysis. The comparison of measured response and simulated response for wind turbine rotation case shows reasonable match. The combined effect of wind turbine rotation and incident wave on the hull response is 10%, 16% and 32% higher than that of the response due to incident wave alone for heave, surge and pitch responses respectively.
Phylogeny of the restiid clade (Poales) and implications for the classification of Anarthriaceae, Centrolepidaceae and Australian Restionaceae
Authors: Briggs Barbara G. , Marchant Adam D. , Perkins Andrew J.
Published: February 2014

Three families, Anarthriaceae, Restionaceae and Centrolepidaceae, are generally recognised in the restiid clade of Poales. A new phylogeny is presented, with fuller sampling of Australian taxa, based on analyses of trnL‐F, trnK and rbcL data from the chloroplast genome. The findings agree with the major groups shown in previous molecular studies but provide a more substantial basis for reviewing the classification at family and generic levels. Anarthriaceae is sister to Restionaceae, with Anarthria sister to Lyginia+Hopkinsia. Centrolepidaceae, on an extremely long branch, appears embedded in Restionaceae in Bayesian trees; although it appears as sister to Restionaceae in analyses that are more subject to long‐branch attraction (in parsimony analyses and those of data from the less‐conserved trnL‐F cpDNA region). Accepting the embedded position, which would make this a subfamily of Restionaceae, the basal division in the Restionaceae separates the African subfamily Restionoideae from the Australasian clade (Sporadanthoideae, Centrolepidoideae, Leptocarpoideae). In subfamily Leptocarpoideae, Eurychorda forms the basal branch. At the next dichotomy the Leptocarpus clade, together with the Winifredia clade, is separated from a diverse assemblage including Loxocarya, Chordifex, Baloskion, Desmocladus, Lepidobolus and allied genera. The phylogeny indicates that several currently recognised genera are not monophyletic and that changes to the generic classification are required. A matrix of morphological characters was prepared and these were mapped onto the Bayesian consensus DNA tree to identify synapomorphies of the clades and genera. Observations on leaf laminae indicate that fully or partially unifacial leaf laminae are a synapomorphy of the restiid clade. The morphological characterisation of the following are considered: the restiid clade, Anarthriaceae, Restionaceae enlarged to include subfamily Centrolepidoideae, Leptocarpus s.l. (including as potential synonyms Meeboldina and Stenotalis) and Desmocladus s.l. (including potentially Harperia, Onychosepalum and Kulinia).