bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of salmon consumption during pregnancy on maternal and infant faecal microbiota, secretory IgA and calprotectin
Authors: Urwin Heidi J. , Miles Elizabeth A. , Noakes Paul S. , Kremmyda Lefkothea-Stella , Vlachava Maria , Diaper Norma D. , Godfrey Keith M. , Calder Philip C. , Vulevic Jelena , Yaqoob Parveen
Published: October 2013

The gut microbiota plays an important role in the development of the immune and gastrointestinal systems of infants. In the present study, we investigated whether increased salmon consumption during pregnancy, maternal weight gain during pregnancy or mode of infant feeding alter the markers of gut immune defence and inflammation. Women (n123) who rarely ate oily fish were randomly assigned to continue consuming their habitual diet or to consume two 150 g portions of farmed salmon per week from 20 weeks of pregnancy to delivery. Faecal samples were collected from the mothers (n75) at 38 weeks of gestation and from their infants (n38) on days 7, 14, 28 and 84 post-partum. Fluorescencein situhybridisation was used to determine faecal microbiota composition and ELISA to measure faecal secretory IgA (sIgA) and calprotectin concentrations. There was no effect of salmon consumption on maternal faecal microbiota or on maternal or infant faecal sIgA and calprotectin concentrations. The degree of weight gain influenced maternal faecal microbiota, and the mode of infant feeding influenced infant faecal microbiota. Faecal samples collected from infants in the salmon group tended to have lower bacterial counts of theAtopobiumcluster compared with those collected from infants in the control group (P= 0·097). This difference was significant in the formula-fed infants (P< 0·05), but not in the exclusively breast-fed infants. In conclusion, the impact of oily fish consumption during pregnancy on maternal and infant gut microbiota composition is limited, but significant differences are associated with maternal weight gain during pregnancy and mode of infant feeding.
Two-dimensional echocardiographic predictors of coarctation of the aorta
Authors: Al Akhfash Ali A. , Almesned Abdulrahman A. , Al Harbi Badr F. , Al Ghamdi Abdullah , Hasson Maan , Al Habshan Fahad M.
Published: October 2013

Background: Coarctation of the aorta is a very common congenital heart malformation. It is frequently associated with other abnormalities. Echocardiography is the diagnostic modality for congenital heart disease. The carotid-subclavian artery index and the isthmus/descending aorta index were proposed for establishing the diagnosis of coarctation of the aorta. Objectives: The objectives were to evaluate such indexes and to look for other echocardiographic predictors of coarctation of the aorta. Method Echocardiography was reviewed for infants with coarctation of the aorta, as well as a control group, using the Echo PAC Dimension. Standard measurements were obtained from different sites of the aortic arch. Results: A total of 31 infants 3 months or less with coarctation of the aorta and 50 infants with no coarctation of the aorta were reviewed. Abnormal aortic valve was present in 65% of those with coarctation of the aorta. The diameters of the proximal and the distal transverse aortic arch were smaller in the coarctation of the aorta group. The distance between the aortic arch branches was longer in the coarctation of the aorta group. Apart from the ratio between distance 2 and the ascending aorta, other ratios/indexes were smaller in the coarctation of the aorta group than in the control group. Conclusion: The presence of abnormal aortic valve, a carotid subclavian index <1.1, I/AAo ratio <0.53, and DTA/AAo ratio <0.6 suggest the presence of coarctation of the aorta. Neonates with large patent ductus arteriosus and any of these findings need close observation until the patent ductus arteriosus closes. If the arch is difficult to assess by two-dimensional echocardiography, the patient may need further imaging to rule out coarctation of the aorta.
Development and validation of a nutritional questionnaire for the Palestine population
Authors: Hamdan May , Monteagudo Celia , Lorenzo-Tovar Maria-Luisa , Tur José-Antonio , Olea-Serrano Fatima , Mariscal-Arcas Miguel
Published: October 2013

Objective

Dietary habits vary widely among regions and cultural groups, and FFQ need to be designed for specific populations. The objectives of the present study were to develop and test the repeatability and relative validity of a medium-length semi-quantitative FFQ for measuring the energy and macronutrient intakes of a specific population and to contribute a methodological framework for this procedure.

Setting

Palestinian families in the Hebron area.

Design

After a preliminary survey of a subgroup of homemakers using 3 d diet recall, stepwise multiple regression analysis was used for selected nutrients to choose foods for inclusion in the FFQ.

Subjects

The FFQ was administered to a study population of 169 women representing the same number of families.

Results

The Wilcoxon test and Bland–Altman plots were used to compare the FFQ results with the mean 3 d diet recall results. A high level of concordance was found, validating the FFQ. In this population, the mean consumption of SFA was above recommendations and the intakes of vitamin D, folic acid, Ca, Fe and K were deficient.

Conclusions

The availability of diet assessment instruments designed for specific populations and cultures is of immense value to researchers and policy makers. The study describes a simple and effective method to develop and validate an FFQ for a given population of interest.
The influence of vitamin A status on iron-deficiency anaemia in anaemic adolescent schoolgirls in Myanmar
Authors: Htet Min Kyaw , Fahmida Umi , Dillon Drupadi , Akib Arwin , Utomo Budi , Thurnham David I
Published: October 2013

Objective

The present study was conducted to investigate reasons for the high prevalence of anaemia among adolescent schoolgirls and to elucidate the role of vitamin A in contributing to Fe-deficiency anaemia (IDA).

Design

Among 1269 schoolgirls who were previously screened for anaemia (Hb < 120 g/l), 391 anaemic girls were further assessed for Fe, vitamin A and subclinical inflammation status. Fe and vitamin A indicators were corrected for inflammation and were compared in the Fe-deficient and non-deficient groups as well as between those with and without inflammation. Logistic regression was done to determine whether vitamin A status and subclinical inflammation were risk factors for Fe deficiency. The differences in Fe status among tertiles of vitamin A concentrations were assessed using ANOVA.

Setting

Myanmar.

Subjects

Adolescent schoolgirls (n391).

Results

One-third of the anaemia (30·4 %) was IDA. Prevalence of low vitamin A status (serum retinol <1·05 μmol/l) was 31·5 %. Fe and vitamin A status were significantly different between the IDA and non-IDA groups and also based on their inflammation status. Logistic regression showed that low vitamin A status was a significant predictor for being Fe deficient (OR = 1·81; 95 % CI 1·03, 3·19 and OR = 2·31; 1·31, 4·07 in the middle (1·056–1·298 μmol/l) and low (≤1·056 μmol/l) vitamin A tertiles, respectively). ANOVA showed that better Fe status was associated with a higher concentration of serum retinol but only in IDA.

Conclusions

Fe deficiency was not the main cause of anaemia in the present population. The role of vitamin A as well as other micronutrients should be taken into account in addressing the problem of anaemia.
Examining Atomistic Defect-Boundary Interactions Induced by Ion Irradiation using Aberration Corrected Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Aguiar J.A. , Chi M. , Kotula P. , Bi Z. , Anderoglu O. , Baldwin J.K. , Valdez J.A. , Misra A. , Uberuaga B.
Published: October 2013

Extended abstract of a paper presented at Microscopy and Microanalysis 2013 in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, August 4 – August 8, 2013.
Fast Mapping of the Cobalt-Valence State in Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-dby Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy
Authors: Müller Philipp , Meffert Matthias , Störmer Heike , Gerthsen Dagmar
Published: October 2013

A fast method for determination of the Co-valence state by electron energy loss spectroscopy in a transmission electron microscope is presented. We suggest the distance between the Co-L3and Co-L2white-lines as a reliable property for the determination of Co-valence states between 2+ and 3+. The determination of the Co-L2,3white-line distance can be automated and is therefore well suited for the evaluation of large data sets that are collected for line scans and mappings. Data with a low signal-to-noise due to short acquisition times can be processed by applying principal component analysis. The new technique was applied to study the Co-valence state of Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-d(BSCF), which is hampered by the superposition of the Ba-M4,5white-lines on the Co-L2,3white-lines. The Co-valence state of the cubic BSCF phase was determined to be 2.2+ (±0.2) after annealing for 100 h at 650°C, compared to an increased valence state of 2.8+ (±0.2) for the hexagonal phase. These results support models that correlate the instability of the cubic BSCF phase with an increased Co-valence state at temperatures below 840°C.
Family members' views on the benefits of harp music vigils for terminally-ill or dying loved ones
Authors: Ganzini Linda , Rakoski Alexa , Cohn Sharilyn , Mularski Richard A.
Published: October 2013

Objectives:

Music-thanatology is a palliative modality that uses harp and voice to provide bedside vigils, particularly for terminally ill or actively dying. We sought to determine the benefits of music vigils for terminally ill patients.

Methods:

Survey of 55 family members, whose terminally ill loved one experienced a music vigil during hospitalization, regarding effects on the patient's breathing, relaxation, comfort, pain and ability to sleep. Written comments on negative and positive results of the vigils were coded using content analysis.

Results:

Family members perceived that the vigils resulted in modest improvement in the patients' breathing, relaxation, comfort, and ability to sleep, with fewer positive effects on pain, and almost no negative effects. Open ended comments focused on the positive benefit in increasing calm, relaxation, comfort. Comments on the positive effects for the family were almost as common as comments on the positive results for the patient.

Significance of Results:

The use of music-vigils in palliative care should be investigated more extensively as our study supports that this intervention has benefits, almost no risk, minimal cost, and may improve patient-family experience of the dying process.
Herzinsuffizienz mit erhaltener linksventrikulärer Auswurffraktion
Authors: Maeder Micha T. , Rickli Hans
Published: October 2013

Herzinsuffizienz mit erhaltener linksventrikulärer Auswurffraktion (LVEF; heart failure with preserved ejection fraction; HFpEF) ist eine häufige Form der Herzinsuffizienz bei älteren Patienten und entspricht typischerweise einer fortgeschrittenen hypertensiven Herzkrankheit. Der linke Ventrikel bei Patienten mit HFpEF ist charakterisiert durch ein konzentrisches Remodeling, eine normale LVEF, aber eine eingeschränkte linksventrikuläre Längsverkürzung und vor allem eine diastolische Störung. Eine konsekutive Füllungsbehinderung des linken Ventrikels mit schnellem Anstieg des Füllungsdrucks unter körperlicher Belastung und die fehlende Steigerungsfähigkeit des Schlagvolumens erklären Dyspnoe bzw. Leistungsintoleranz. Die Diagnose von HFpEF erfordert neben dem Ausschluss nicht-kardialer Ursachen der Symptome und anderer kardialer Entitäten wie einer Koronaren Herzkrankheit oder eines relevanten Klappenvitiums das Vorhandensein eines nicht-dilatierten linken Ventrikels mit einer LVEF >50% sowie einer relevanten diastolischen Störung des linken Ventrikels. Letzteres erfolgt durch invasive Messungen, Echokardiografie, natriuretische Peptide oder eine Kombination dieser Modalitäten. Im Gegensatz zur Herzinsuffizienz mit eingeschränkter LVEF existiert für Patienten mit HFpEF nach wie vor keine Therapie, die das Überleben verbessert oder die Hospitalisationrate infolge Herzinsuffizienz signifikant reduziert. Aktuell sind aber intensive Forschungsbemühungen im Gange, und Resultate von Studien, die den Effekt verschiedener Interventionen auf klinische Endpunkte untersuchen, können in den nächsten Jahren erwartet werden.
Kunsttherapeutische Interventionen bei Burnout in Prävention und Gesundheitsförderung
Authors: Oepen Renate , Gruber Harald
Published: October 2013

Die Wirkung kunsttherapeutischer Interventionen, insbesondere im Hinblick auf die gesellschaftlich aktuell hoch relevante Burnout-Problematik, ist derzeit noch sehr wenig erforscht. Die vorliegende explorative Einzelfallstudie beschäftigt sich mit der Fragestellung, ob kunsttherapeutische Interventionen das aktuelle und habituelle Wohlbefinden als Determinanten von Gesundheit bei Burnout-Betroffenen in einem präventiven Setting steigern können, und welche kunsttherapeutischen Wirkfaktoren für die Veränderung des Wohlbefindens ursächlich sind. Durchgeführt wurde ein indikationsspezifisches, kunsttherapeutisches Interventionskonzept an einem Projekttag mit sieben Klientinnen aus Burnout-Selbsthilfegruppen, das mit quantitativen und qualitativen Methoden evaluiert wurde. Die quantitative Analyse ergab eine signifikante Steigerung des aktuellen und habituellen Wohlbefindens, habituell in wesentlichen Skalen des SF-36 Health Survey, aktuell in der Beschwerdenliste (B-L) und der Aktuellen Stimmungsskala (ASTS). Drei allgemeine und acht spezifische kunsttherapeutische Wirkfaktoren konnten als Ursache für die Wohlbefindenssteigerung im Rahmen der qualitativen Untersuchung generiert werden. Besonders relevant für das positive Outcome waren die allgemeinen kunsttherapeutischen Wirkfaktoren „Regulation des aktuellen und habituellen Befindens”, „Förderung von Erkenntnisprozessen/Aufbau von Copingstrategien” sowie die spezifischen kunsttherapeutischen Wirkfaktoren „Stimulation und Ankerung von Symbolisierungsfähigkeit und Imagination” sowie „Förderung von Gemeinschaftsgefühl durch Gestalten in der Gruppe”. Die Ergebnisse dieser explorativen Studie sollen in weiteren Studien überprüft werden.
Musikanwendung bei Demenz
Authors: Neander Klaus-Dieter
Published: October 2013

In der hier vorgelegten Studie an 39 an Demenz erkrankten Menschen wurde der Frage nachgegangen, ob ein dem Patienten „bekanntes” Musikstück eine deutlichere Wirkung auf Schlafqualität, Ökonomisierung des Herzschlags und den Cortisolspiegel hat, als ein unbekanntes Musikstück. Ausgehend von den 2004 vorgelegten Untersuchungsergebnissen konnten in dieser Studie eindeutige Belege dafür gefunden werden, dass die beruhigende, schlaffördernde Wirkung sowohl bei dem „bekannten”, als auch bei dem „unbekannten” Musikstück eintrat.
Ausdrucksformen emotionaler Befindlichkeiten
Authors: Dentler Maike , Heimes Silke
Published: October 2013

Emotionale Kompetenz gilt als wichtige Fähigkeit im Hinblick auf eine erfolgreiche Alltags- und Lebensbewältigung. Verschiedene Studien belegen, dass sowohl soziale als auch schulische Erfolge durch emotionale Kompetenz positiv bedingt werden. Ebenso steht die psychische Gesundheit in Zusammenhang mit dieser Fähigkeit. Aufgrund ihrer Relevanz für Erfolg und Zufriedenheit werden erste Versuche unternommen, ein Training der emotionalen Kompetenz in den Schulalltag zu integrieren. 31 Schülerinnen und Schüler einer siebten Realschulklasse durchliefen die drei Monate andauernde Unterrichtseinheit „Gefühle–Ein Projekt”, in der eine Auseinandersetzung mit verschiedenen Gefühlsbausteinen unter Einsatz kunsttherapeutischer und kreativpädagogischer Methoden stattfand. Untersucht wurde die Veränderung der emotionalen Kompetenz vom Ausgangsniveau der einzelnen Schüler (Z0) über den Zeitpunkt unmittelbar nach der Intervention (Z1), bis hin zum Zeitpunkt drei Monate nach der Intervention (Z2) mithilfe des Emotionale-Kompetenz-Fragebogen von Rindermann (2009) . Des Weiteren wurden die teilnehmende Beobachtung, das problemzentrierte Interview, eine nicht standardisierte schriftliche Befragung sowie die Auswertung einzelner Dokumente zur Auswertung der Studie herangezogen. In allen Dimensionen des Emotionale-Kompetenz-Fragebogens liegt eine offenkundige Steigerung der emotionalen Kompetenz vor, alle Werte haben sich drei Monate nach Beendigung der Intervention deutlich erhöht und über dem Mittelwert angesiedelt. Bestätigt wird dieser Zuwachs durch die anderen eingesetzten Erhebungsverfahren. Das Training emotionaler Kompetenz in der Schule zeigt sich sehr Erfolg versprechend, allerdings müssten für eine Generalisierbarkeit auch in anderen Schularten und Altersstufen entsprechende Projekte erprobt werden. Für einen flächendeckenden Kompetenzzuwachs im Bereich der emotionalen Fertigkeiten müsste die Integration solcher Projekte in die Schulcurricula erfolgen und entsprechende Weiterbildungen in diesem Bereich für Lehrkräfte angeboten werden.
Single-Cell Resolution Mapping of Neuronal Damage in Acute Focal Cerebral Ischemia Using Thallium Autometallography
Authors: Stöber Franziska , Baldauf Kathrin , Ziabreva Iryna , Harhausen Denise , Zille Marietta , Neubert Jenni , Reymann Klaus G , Scheich Henning , Dirnagl Ulrich , Schröder Ulrich H , Wunder Andreas , Goldschmidt Jürgen
Published: October 2013

Neuronal damage shortly after onset or after brief episodes of cerebral ischemia has remained difficult to assess with clinical and preclinical imaging techniques as well as with microscopical methods. We here show, in rodent models of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), that neuronal damage in acute focal cerebral ischemia can be mapped with single-cell resolution using thallium autometallography (TlAMG), a histochemical technique for the detection of the K+-probe thallium (Tl+) in the brain. We intravenously injected rats and mice with thallium diethyldithiocarbamate (TlDDC), a lipophilic chelate complex that releases Tl+ after crossing the blood–brain barrier. We found, within the territories of the affected arteries, areas of markedly reduced neuronal Tl+ uptake in all animals at all time points studied ranging from 15 minutes to 24 hours after MCAO. In large lesions at early time points, areas with neuronal and astrocytic Tl+ uptake below thresholds of detection were surrounded by putative penumbral zones with preserved but diminished Tl+ uptake. At 24 hours, the areas of reduced Tl+uptake matched with areas delineated by established markers of neuronal damage. The results suggest the use of 201TlDDC for preclinical and clinical single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging of hyperacute alterations in brain K+ metabolism and prediction of tissue viability in cerebral ischemia.
Application of ggplot2 to Pharmacometric Graphics
Authors: Ito K , Murphy D
Published: October 2013

Visualization is a powerful mechanism for extracting information from data. ggplot2 is a contributed visualization package in the R programming language, which creates publication‐quality statistical graphics in an efficient, elegant, and systematic manner. This article summarizes key features of the package with examples from pharmacometrics and pointers to available resources for learning ggplot2.

CPT: Pharmacometrics & Systems Pharmacology (2013) 2, e79; doi:10.1038/psp.2013.56; advance online publication 16 October 2013
Structural basis for a class of nanomolar influenza A neuraminidase inhibitors
Authors: Kerry Philip S. , Mohan Sankar , Russell Rupert J. M. , Bance Nicole , Niikura Masahiro , Pinto B. Mario
Published: October 2013

The influenza virus neuraminidase (NA) is essential for the virus life cycle. The rise of resistance mutations against current antiviral therapies has increased the need for the development of novel inhibitors. Recent efforts have targeted a cavity adjacent to the catalytic site (the 150-cavity) in addition to the primary catalytic subsite in order to increase specificity and reduce the likelihood of resistance. This study details structural and in vitro analyses of a class of inhibitors that bind uniquely in both subsites. Crystal structures of three inhibitors show occupation of the 150-cavity in two distinct and novel binding modes. We believe these are the first nanomolar inhibitors of NA to be characterized in this way. Furthermore, we show that one inhibitor, binding within the catalytic site, offers reduced susceptibility to known resistance mutations via increased flexibility of a pendant pentyloxy group and the ability to pivot about a strong hydrogen-bonding network.
Magneto-electric Nanoparticles to Enable Field-controlled High-Specificity Drug Delivery to Eradicate Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Guduru Rakesh , Liang Ping , Runowicz Carolyn , Nair Madhavan , Atluri Venkata , Khizroev Sakhrat
Published: October 2013

The nanotechnology capable of high-specificity targeted delivery of anti-neoplastic drugs would be a significant breakthrough in Cancer in general and Ovarian Cancer in particular. We addressed this challenge through a new physical concept that exploited (i) the difference in the membrane electric properties between the tumor and healthy cells and (ii) the capability of magneto-electric nanoparticles (MENs) to serve as nanosized converters of remote magnetic field energy into the MENs' intrinsic electric field energy. This capability allows to remotely control the membrane electric fields and consequently trigger high-specificity drug uptake through creation of localized nano-electroporation sites. In in-vitro studies on human ovarian carcinoma cell (SKOV-3) and healthy cell (HOMEC) lines, we applied a 30-Oe d.c. field to trigger high-specificity uptake of paclitaxel loaded on 30-nm CoFe2O4@BaTiO3 MENs. The drug penetrated through the membrane and completely eradicated the tumor within 24 hours without affecting the normal cells.
Electromechanics in MoS2 and WS2: nanotubes vs. monolayers
Authors: Ghorbani-Asl Mahdi , Zibouche Nourdine , Wahiduzzaman Mohammad , Oliveira Augusto F. , Kuc Agnieszka , Heine Thomas
Published: October 2013

The transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMD) MoS2 and WS2 show remarkable electromechanical properties. Strain modifies the direct band gap into an indirect one and substantial strain even induces an semiconductor-metal transition. Providing strain through mechanical contacts is difficult for TMD monolayers, but state-of-the-art for TMD nanotubes. We show using density-functional theory that similar electromechanical properties as in monolayer and bulk TMDs are found for large diameter TMD single- (SWNT) and multi-walled nanotubes (MWNTs). The semiconductor-metal transition occurs at elongations of 16%. We show that Raman signals of the in-plane and out-of-plane lattice vibrations depend significantly and linearly on the strain, showing that Raman spectroscopy is an excellent tool to determine the strain of the individual nanotubes and hence monitor the progress of nanoelectromechanical experiments in situ. TMD MWNTs show twice the electric conductance compared to SWNTs and each wall of the MWNTs contributes to the conductance proportional to its diameter.
Genome-wide methylated CpG island profiles of melanoma cells reveal a melanoma coregulation network
Authors: Li Jian-Liang , Mazar Joseph , Zhong Cuncong , Faulkner Geoffrey J. , Govindarajan Subramaniam S. , Zhang Zhan , Dinger Marcel E. , Meredith Gavin , Adams Christopher , Zhang Shaojie , Mattick John S. , Ray Animesh , Perera Ranjan J.
Published: October 2013

Metastatic melanoma is a malignant cancer with generally poor prognosis, with no targeted chemotherapy. To identify epigenetic changes related to melanoma, we have determined genome-wide methylated CpG island distributions by next-generation sequencing. Melanoma chromosomes tend to be differentially methylated over short CpG island tracts. CpG islands in the upstream regulatory regions of many coding and noncoding RNA genes, including, for example, TERC, which encodes the telomerase RNA, exhibit extensive hypermethylation, whereas several repeated elements, such as LINE 2 and several LTR elements, are hypomethylated in advanced stage melanoma cell lines. By using CpG island demethylation profiles and by integrating these data with RNA-seq data obtained from melanoma cells, we have identified a co-expression network of differentially methylated genes with significance for cancer related functions. Focused assays of melanoma patient tissue samples for CpG island methylation near the noncoding RNA gene SNORD-10 demonstrated high specificity.
MAS promoter regulation: a role for Sry and tyrosine nitration of the KRAB domain of ZNF274 as a feedback mechanism
Authors: Prokop Jeremy W. , Rauscher Frank J. , Peng Hongzhuang , Liu Yuanjie , Araujo Fabiano C. , Watanabe Ingrid , Reis Fernando M. , Milsted Amy
Published: October 2013

The ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2)/Ang-(1–7) [angiotensin-(1–7)]/MAS axis of the RAS (renin–angiotensin system) has emerged as a pathway of interest in treating both cardiovascular disorders and cancer. The MAS protein is known to bind to and be activated by Ang-(1–7); however, the mechanisms of this activation are just starting to be understood. Although there are strong biochemical data regarding the regulation and activation of the AT1R (angiotensin II type 1 receptor) and the AT2R (angiotensin II type 2 receptor), with models of how AngII (angiotensin II) binds each receptor, fewer studies have characterized MAS. In the present study, we characterize the MAS promoter and provide a potential feedback mechanism that could compensate for MAS degradation following activation by Ang-(1–7). Analysis of ENCODE data for the MAS promoter revealed potential epigenetic control by KRAB (Krüppel-associated box)/KAP-1 (KRAB-associated protein-1). A proximal promoter construct for the MAS gene was repressed by the SOX [SRY (sex-determining region on the Y chromosome) box] proteins SRY, SOX2, SOX3 and SOX14, of which SRY is known to interact with the KRAB domain. The KRAB–KAP-1 complex can be tyrosine-nitrated, causing the dissociation of the KAP-1 protein and thus a potential loss of epigenetic control. Activation of MAS can lead to an increase in nitric oxide, suggesting a feedback mechanism for MAS on its own promoter. The results of the present study provide a more complete view of MAS regulation and, for the first time, suggest biochemical outcomes for nitration of the KRAB domain.
Lipreading in School-Age Children: The Roles of Age, Hearing Status, and Cognitive Ability
Authors: Tye-Murray Nancy , Hale Sandra , Spehar Brent , Myerson Joel , Sommers Mitchell S.
Published: October 2013

Purpose

The study addressed three research questions: Does lipreading improve between the ages of 7 and 14 years? Does hearing loss affect the development of lipreading? How do individual differences in lipreading relate to other abilities?

Method

Forty children with normal hearing (NH) and 24 with hearing loss (HL) were tested using 4 lipreading instruments plus measures of perceptual, cognitive, and linguistic abilities.

Results

For both groups, lipreading performance improved with age on all 4 measures of lipreading, with the HL group performing better than the NH group. Scores from the 4 measures loaded strongly on a single principal component. Only age, hearing status, and visuospatial working memory were significant predictors of lipreading performance.

Conclusions

Results showed that children's lipreading ability is not fixed but rather improves between 7 and 14 years of age. The finding that children with HL lipread better than those with NH suggests experience plays an important role in the development of this ability. In addition to age and hearing status, visuospatial working memory predicts lipreading performance in children, just as it does in adults. Future research on the developmental time-course of lipreading could permit interventions and pedagogies to be targeted at periods in which improvement is most likely to occur.
Eye-Tracking Measures Reveal How Changes in the Design of Aided AAC Displays Influence the Efficiency of Locating Symbols by School-Age Children Without Disabilities
Authors: Wilkinson Krista M. , O’Neill Tara , McIlvane William J.
Published: October 2013

Purpose

Many individuals with communication impairments use aided augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems involving letters, words, or line drawings that rely on the visual modality. It seems reasonable to suggest that display design should incorporate information about how users attend to and process visual information. The organization of AAC symbols can influence the speed and accuracy with which children select a target symbol on a display. This research examined why some displays facilitate responding.

Method

Eye-tracking technology recorded point-of-gaze while children without disabilities engaged in a visual search task with 2 AAC displays. In 1 display, symbols sharing an internal color were clustered together. In the other display, like-colored symbols were distributed. Dependent measures were (a) latency to fixate on the target compared with distracters and (b) the number of fixations to target and distracters.

Results

Participants were significantly slower to fixate on the target when like-colored symbols were distributed; there was a significant increase in the number of fixations to distracters that did not share color with the target.

Conclusions

Efficient search was related to minimizing fixations to nonrelevant distracters. Vulnerability to distraction can be a significant problem in individuals with disabilities who use AAC. Minimizing the intrusion of such distraction may, therefore, be of importance in AAC display design.
Modeling Mechanisms of Persisting and Resolving Delay in Language Development
Authors: Thomas Michael S. C. , Knowland V. C. P.
Published: October 2013

Purpose

In this study, the authors used neural network modeling to investigate the possible mechanistic basis of developmental language delay and to test the viability of the hypothesis that persisting delay and resolving delay lie on a mechanistic continuum with normal development.

Method

The authors used a population modeling approach to study individual rates of development in 1,000 simulated individuals acquiring a notional language domain (in this study, represented by English past tense). Variation was caused by differences in internal neurocomputational learning parameters as well as the richness of the language environment. An early language delay group was diagnosed, and individual trajectories were then traced.

Results

Quantitative variations in learning mechanisms were sufficient to produce persisting delay and resolving delay subgroups in similar proportions to empirical observations. In the model, persisting language delay was caused by limitations in processing capacity, whereas resolving delay was caused by low plasticity. Richness of the language environment did not predict the emergence of persisting delay but did predict the final ability levels of individuals with resolving delay.

Conclusion

Mechanistically, it is viable that persisting delay and resolving delay are only quantitatively different. There may be an interaction between environmental factors and outcome groups, with individuals who have resolving delay being influenced more by the richness of the language environment.
Bilinguals Use Language-Specific Articulatory Settings
Authors: Wilson Ian , Gick Bryan
Published: October 2013

Purpose

Previous work has shown that monolingual French and English speakers use distinctarticulatory settings,the underlying articulatory posture of a language. In the present article, the authors report on an experiment in which they investigated articulatory settings in bilingual speakers. The authors first tested the hypothesis that in order to sound native-like, bilinguals must use distinct, language-specific articulatory settings in monolingual mode. The authors then tested the hypothesis that in bilingual mode, a bilingual individual's articulatory setting is identical to the monolingual-mode setting of 1 of his or her languages.

Method

Eight French–English bilinguals each read 90 English and 90 French sentences, and the authors measured their interspeech posture (ISP) using optical tracking of the lips and jaw and ultrasound imaging of the tongue.

Results

Results show that bilingual speakers who are perceived as native in both languages exhibit distinct, language-specific ISPs, and those who are not perceived as native in one or more languages do not. In bilingual mode, bilinguals use an ISP that is equivalent to the monolingual-mode ISP of their currently most used language. The most balanced bilingual used a French lip ISP but an English tongue-tip ISP.

Conclusion

Results support the claim that bilinguals who sound native in each of their languages have distinct articulatory settings for each language.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.6170441
Accurate statistical associating fluid theory for chain molecules formed from Mie segments
Authors: Lafitte Thomas , Apostolakou Anastasia , Avendaño Carlos , Galindo Amparo , Adjiman Claire S. , Müller Erich A. , Jackson George
Published: October 2013

A highly accurate equation of state (EOS) for chain molecules formed from spherical segments interacting through Mie potentials (i.e., a generalized Lennard-Jones form with variable repulsive and attractive exponents) is presented. The quality of the theoretical description of the vapour-liquid equilibria (coexistence densities and vapour pressures) and the second-derivative thermophysical properties (heat capacities, isobaric thermal expansivities, and speed of sound) are critically assessed by comparison with molecular simulation and with experimental data of representative real substances. Our new EOS represents a notable improvement with respect to previous versions of the statistical associating fluid theory for variable range interactions (SAFT-VR) of the generic Mie form. The approach makes rigorous use of the Barker and Henderson high-temperature perturbation expansion up to third order in the free energy of the monomer Mie system. The radial distribution function of the reference monomer fluid, which is a prerequisite for the representation of the properties of the fluid of Mie chains within a Wertheim first-order thermodynamic perturbation theory (TPT1), is calculated from a second-order expansion. The resulting SAFT-VR Mie EOS can now be applied to molecular fluids characterized by a broad range of interactions spanning from soft to very repulsive and short-ranged Mie potentials. A good representation of the corresponding molecular-simulation data is achieved for model monomer and chain fluids. When applied to the particular case of the ubiquitous Lennard-Jones potential, our rigorous description of the thermodynamic properties is of equivalent quality to that obtained with the empirical EOSs for LJ monomer (EOS of Johnson et al.) and LJ chain (soft-SAFT) fluids. A key feature of our reformulated SAFT-VR approach is the greatly enhanced accuracy in the near-critical region for chain molecules. This attribute, combined with the accurate modeling of second-derivative properties, allows for a much improved global representation of the thermodynamic properties and fluid-phase equilibria of pure fluids and their mixtures.
Remarks on Kim's strong subadditivity matrix inequality: Extensions and equality conditions
Authors: Ruskai Mary Beth
Published: October 2013

We describe recent work of Kim [J. Math. Phys. 53, 122204 (2012)] to show that operator convex functions associated with quasi-entropies can be used to prove a large class of new matrix inequalities in the tri-partite and bi-partite setting by taking a judiciously chosen partial trace over all but one of the spaces. We give some additional examples in both settings. Furthermore, we observe that the equality conditions for all the new inequalities are essentially the same as those for strong subadditivity.
Quantum irreversible decoherence behaviour in open quantum systems with few degrees of freedom: Application to 1H NMR reversion experiments in nematic liquid crystals
Authors: Segnorile H. H. , Zamar R. C.
Published: October 2013

An experimental study of NMR spin decoherence in nematic liquid crystals is presented. Decoherence dynamics can be put in evidence by means of refocusing experiments of the dipolar interactions. The experimental technique used in this work is based on the MREV8 pulse sequence. The aim of the work is to detect the main features of the irreversible quantum decoherence in liquid crystals, on the basis of the theory presented by the authors recently. The focus is laid on experimentally probing the eigen-selection process in the intermediate time scale, between quantum interference of a closed system and thermalization, as a signature of the quantum spin decoherence of the open quantum system, as well as on quantifying the effects of non-idealities as possible sources of signal decays which could mask the intrinsic decoherence. In order to contrast experiment and theory, the theory was adapted to obtain the decoherence function corresponding to the MREV8 reversion experiments. Non-idealities of the experimental setting, like external field inhomogeneity, pulse misadjustments, and the presence of non-reverted spin interaction terms are analysed in detail within this framework, and their effects on the observed signal decay are numerically estimated. It is found that though all these non-idealities could in principle affect the evolution of the spin dynamics, their influence can be mitigated and they do not present the characteristic behaviour of the irreversible spin decoherence. As unique characteristic of decoherence, the experimental results clearly show the occurrence of eigen-selectivity in the intermediate timescale, in complete agreement with the theoretical predictions. We conclude that the eigen-selection effect is the fingerprint of decoherence associated with a quantum open spin system in liquid crystals. Besides, these features of the results account for the quasi-equilibrium states of the spin system, which were observed previously in these mesophases, and lead to conclude that the quasi-equilibrium is a definite stage of the spin dynamics during its evolution towards equilibrium.
Accurate ab initio-based adiabatic global potential energy surface for the 22A″ state of NH2 by extrapolation to the complete basis set limit
Authors: Li Y. Q. , Ma F. C. , Sun M. T.
Published: October 2013

A full three-dimensional global potential energy surface is reported first time for the title system, which is important for the photodissociation processes. It is obtained using double many-body expansion theory and an extensive set of accurate ab initio energies extrapolated to the complete basis set limit. Such a work can be recommended for dynamics studies of the N(2D) + H2 reaction, a reliable theoretical treatment of the photodissociation dynamics and as building blocks for constructing the double many-body expansion potential energy surface of larger nitrogen/hydrogen containing systems. In turn, a preliminary theoretical study of the reaction \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}${\rm N}(^2D)+{\rm H_2}(X^1\Sigma _g^+)(\nu =0,j=0)\break\rightarrow {\rm NH}(a^1\Delta )+{\rm H}(^2S)$\end{document}N(D2)+H2(X1Σg+)(ν=0,j=0)→ NH (a1Δ)+H(S2) has been carried out with the method of quasi-classical trajectory on the new potential energy surface. Integral cross sections and thermal rate constants have been calculated, providing perhaps the most reliable estimate of the integral cross sections and the rate constants known thus far for such a reaction.
Influence of plasma diagnostics and constraints on the quality of equilibrium reconstructions on Joint European Torus
Authors: Gelfusa M. , Murari A. , Lupelli I. , Hawkes N. , Gaudio P. , Baruzzo M. , Brix M. , Craciunescu T. , Drozdov V. , Meigs A. , Peluso E. , Romanelli M. , Schmuck S. , Sieglin B. ,   JET-EFDA Contributors
Published: October 2013

One of the main approaches to thermonuclear fusion relies on confining high temperature plasmas with properly shaped magnetic fields. The determination of the magnetic topology is, therefore, essential for controlling the experiments and for achieving the required performance. In Tokamaks, the reconstruction of the fields is typically formulated as a free boundary equilibrium problem, described by the Grad-Shafranov equation in toroidal geometry and axisymmetric configurations. Unfortunately, this results in mathematically very ill posed problems and, therefore, the quality of the equilibrium reconstructions depends sensitively on the measurements used as inputs and on the imposed constraints. In this paper, it is shown how the different diagnostics (Magnetics Measurements, Polarimetry and Motional Stark Effect), together with the edge current density and plasma pressure constraints, can have a significant impact on the quality of the equilibrium on JET. Results show that both the Polarimetry and Motional Stark Effect internal diagnostics are crucial in order to obtain reasonable safety factor profiles. The impact of the edge current density constraint is significant when the plasma is in the H-mode of confinement. In this plasma scenario the strike point positions and the plasma last closed flux surface can change even by centimetres, depending on the edge constraints, with a significant impact on the remapping of the equilibrium-dependent diagnostics and of pedestal physics studies. On the other hand and quite counter intuitively, the pressure constraint can severely affect the quality of the magnetic reconstructions in the core. These trends have been verified with several JET discharges and consistent results have been found. An interpretation of these results, as interplay between degrees of freedom and available measurements, is provided. The systematic analysis described in the paper emphasizes the importance of having sufficient diagnostic inputs and of properly validating the results of the codes with independent measurements.
Correlation of the structural properties of a Pt seed layer with the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy features of full Heusler-based Co2FeAl/MgO/Co2Fe6B2 junctions via a 12-inch scale Si wafer process
Authors: Chae Kyo-Suk , Lee Du-Yeong , Shim Tae-Hun , Hong Jin-Pyo , Park Jea-Gun
Published: October 2013

We elucidated the interfacial-perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (i-PMA) features of full Heusler-based Co2FeAl/MgO/Co2Fe6B2 magnetic-tunnel-junctions as functions of the structural properties of the Pt seed layer including its thickness and ex situ annealing temperature. All of the samples were prepared in a 12-inch silicon wafer process for real industry applications. The observations of the M-H loops emphasize that a thinner Pt seed layer and a high ex situ annealing temperature enhance the surface roughness of the seed layer, providing better i-PMA characteristics. HR-TEM images of the samples were evaluated to understand the structural effects of thin and thick Pt seed layers.
Abrupt and gradual transitions between low and hyperexcited firing frequencies in neuronal models with fast synaptic excitation: A comparative study
Authors: Rotstein Horacio G.
Published: October 2013

Hyperexcitability of neuronal networks is one of the hallmarks of epileptic brain seizure generation, and results from a net imbalance between excitation and inhibition that promotes excessive abnormal firing frequencies. The transition between low and high firing frequencies as the levels of recurrent AMPA excitation change can occur either gradually or abruptly. We used modeling, numerical simulations, and dynamical systems tools to investigate the biophysical and dynamic mechanisms that underlie these two identified modes of transition in recurrently connected neurons via AMPA excitation. We compare our results and demonstrate that these two modes of transition are qualitatively different and can be linked to different intrinsic properties of the participating neurons.
Constrained large-eddy simulation of wall-bounded compressible turbulent flows
Authors: Jiang Zhou , Xiao Zuoli , Shi Yipeng , Chen Shiyi
Published: October 2013

A constrained large-eddy simulation (CLES) approach is developed for wall-bounded compressible turbulent flows based on its incompressible analogue [Chen et al., “Reynolds-stress-constrained large-eddy simulation of wall-bounded turbulent flows,” J. Fluid Mech. 703, 1–28 (2012)]. In the new CLES approach, both the subgrid-scale (SGS) stress and the SGS heat flux are decomposed into an averaged part and a fluctuating part in the near-wall region with the mean SGS stress and heat flux constrained by prescribed Reynolds stress model and turbulent heat flux model, respectively. The Smagorinsky SGS models are employed to approximate the SGS stress and heat flux in the remaining region of the flow domain. The present CLES method is validated by simulating the compressible turbulent channel flows at various Reynolds numbers and Mach numbers. The mean velocity profiles, mean temperature profiles, and other statistical quantities and turbulent structures are obtained and well compared among the present approach, direct numerical simulation (DNS), detached eddy simulation (DES) and traditional large eddy simulation (LES). The results demonstrate that the dual constraint of Reynolds stress and turbulent heat flux plays a non-trivial role in enhancing the ability of LES for wall-bounded compressible flows. In addition, the Reynolds and Mach numbers effects on the mean and statistical quantities as well as the turbulence structures are investigated using the proposed CLES method. The main conclusions are in very good agreement with those drawn by other authors using DNS method. All the results manifest that the present CLES technique is an encouraging and useful tool for wall-bounded compressible turbulent flows.
The enhanced ASDEX Upgrade pellet centrifuge launcher
Authors: Plöckl B. , Lang P. T.
Published: October 2013

Pellets played an important role in the program of ASDEX Upgrade serving both for investigations on efficient particle fuelling and high density scenarios but also for pioneering work on Edge Localised Mode (ELM) pacing and mitigation. Initially designed for launching fuelling pellets from the magnetic low field side, the system was converted already some time ago to inject pellets from the magnetic high field side as much higher fuelling efficiency was found using this configuration. In operation for more than 20 years, the pellet launching system had to undergo a major revision and upgrading, in particular of its control system. Furthermore, the control system installed adjacent to the launcher had to be transferred to a more distant location enforcing a complete galvanic separation from torus potential and a fully remote control solution. Changing from a hybrid system consisting of PLC S5/S7 and some hard wired relay control to a state of the art PLC system allowed the introduction of several new operational options enabling more flexibility in the pellet experiments. This article describes the new system architecture of control hardware and software, the operating procedure, and the extended operational window. First successful applications for ELM pacing and triggering studies are presented as well as utilization for the development of high density scenarios.
High frequency electromagnetic resistive instability in a Hall thruster under the effect of ionization
Authors: Singh Sukhmander , Malik Hitendra K. , Nishida Yasushi
Published: October 2013

Two types of high frequency electromagnetic resistive instabilities are found to occur in a Hall thruster plasma in the presence of collisions and ionization, out of which one of lower growth rate (called lower magnitude high frequency instability (LMHFI)) is sensitive to the axial component of the wave vector. The effects of ionization, collisions, and electron drift velocity on the growth rates of these instabilities are studied in greater details. The LMHFI grows faster in the presence of ionization but shows weaker dependence on the electrons' E→×B→ drift, contrary to the case of other instability (called higher magnitude high frequency instability) which is sensitive to the azimuthal wave number and collisions.