bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IDO and Regulatory T Cell Support Are Critical for Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte-Associated Ag-4 Ig-Mediated Long-Term Solid Organ Allograft Survival
Authors: Sucher Robert , Fischler Klaus , Oberhuber Rupert , Kronberger Irmgard , Margreiter Christian , Ollinger Robert , Schneeberger Stefan , Fuchs Dietmar , Werner Ernst R. , Watschinger Katrin , Zelger Bettina , Tellides George , Pilat Nina , Pratschke Johann , Margreiter Raimund , Wekerle Thomas , Brandacher Gerald
Published: December 2011

Costimulatory blockade of CD28-B7 interaction with CTLA4Ig is a well-established strategy to induce transplantation tolerance. Although previous in vitro studies suggest that CTLA4Ig upregulates expression of the immunoregulatory enzyme IDO in dendritic cells, the relationship of CTLA4Ig and IDO in in vivo organ transplantation remains unclear. In this study, we studied whether concerted immunomodulation in vivo by CTLA4Ig depends on IDO. C57BL/6 recipients receiving a fully MHC-mismatched BALB/c heart graft treated with CTLA4Ig + donor-specific transfusion showed indefinite graft survival (>100 d) without signs of chronic rejection or donor specific Ab formation. Recipients with long-term surviving grafts had significantly higher systemic IDO activity as compared with rejectors, which markedly correlated with intragraft IDO and Foxp3 levels. IDO inhibition with 1-methyl-dl-tryptophan, either at transplant or at postoperative day 50, abrogated CTLA4Ig + DST-induced long-term graft survival. Importantly, IDO1 knockout recipients experienced acute rejection and graft survival comparable to controls. In addition, αCD25 mAb-mediated depletion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) resulted in decreased IDO activity and again prevented CTLA4Ig + DST induced indefinite graft survival. Our results suggest that CTLA4Ig-induced tolerance to murine cardiac allografts is critically dependent on synergistic cross-linked interplay of IDO and Tregs. These results have important implications for the clinical development of this costimulatory blocker.
Fundamental Characteristics of the Immunoglobulin VH Repertoire of Chickens in Comparison with Those of Humans, Mice, and Camelids
Authors: Wu Leeying , Oficjalska Katarzyna , Lambert Matthew , Fennell Brian J. , Darmanin-Sheehan Alfredo , Ní Shúilleabháin Deirdre , Autin Bénédicte , Cummins Emma , Tchistiakova Lioudmila , Bloom Laird , Paulsen Janet , Gill Davinder , Cunningham Orla , Finlay William J. J.
Published: December 2011

Examination of 1269 unique naive chicken VH sequences showed that the majority of positions in the framework (FW) regions were maintained as germline, with high mutation rates observed in the CDRs. Many FW mutations could be clearly related to the modulation of CDR structure or the VH–VL interface. CDRs 1 and 2 of the VH exhibited frequent mutation in solvent-exposed positions, but conservation of common structural residues also found in human CDRs at the same positions. In comparison with humans and mice, the chicken CDR3 repertoire was skewed toward longer sequences, was dominated by small amino acids (G/S/A/C/T), and had higher cysteine (chicken, 9.4%; human, 1.6%; and mouse, 0.25%) but lower tyrosine content (chicken, 9.2%; human, 16.8%; and mouse 26.4%). A strong correlation (R2 = 0.97) was observed between increasing CDR3 length and higher cysteine content. This suggests that noncanonical disulfides are strongly favored in chickens, potentially increasing CDR stability and complexity in the topology of the combining site. The probable formation of disulfide bonds between CDR3 and CDR1, FW2, or CDR2 was also observed, as described in camelids. All features of the naive repertoire were fully replicated in the target-selected, phage-displayed repertoire. The isolation of a chicken Fab with four noncanonical cysteines in the VH that exhibits 64 nM (KD) binding affinity for its target proved these constituents to be part of the humoral response, not artifacts. This study supports the hypothesis that disulfide bond-constrained CDR3s are a structural diversification strategy in the restricted germline v-gene repertoire of chickens.
Total Remission of Severe Immune Thrombocytopenia after Short Term Treatment with Romiplostim
Authors: Vlachaki Efthymia , Papageorgiou Vaia , Klonizakis Filippos , Spandonidou Maria , Chisan Sofia , Vetsiou Evaggelia , Ioannidou Elissavet
Published: December 2011

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in adults is an acquired chronic immune-mediated disorder defined by isolated thrombocytopenia. In recent years, an improved understanding of the pathophysiology of ITP has been achieved and it is now accepted that the disorder is due to increased platelet destruction and decreased platelet production from megakaryocytes. Thrombopoietin (TPO)-receptor agonists (romiplostim and eltrombopag) are new therapeutic modalities in the treatment of ITP. Here we describe a case of an elderly patient with severe ITP who presented complete remission after short-term use of romiplostim (only 3 weekly doses). This finding is quite interesting as the TPO-receptor agonists are, so far, believed to rarely lead to off-treatment sustained remission. The common notion of long-term use of romiplostim could be reexamined in future studies. Furthermore, the short term treatment with romiplostim may reduce the cost and the risk of side effects.
Implementing a Dietary Intervention in Primary Care Practice: A Process Evaluation
Authors: Lazovich DeAnn , Curry Susan J. , Beresford Shirley A. A. , Kristal Alan R. , Wagner Edward H.
Published: December 2011

Objectives.

Physicians acknowledge the need to advise their patients about dietary habits, but they may not have the training or tools to do this efficiently. In the context of a randomized trial, we investigated the feasibility of enlisting physicians to implement a dietary intervention in the primary care setting.

Methods.

Physicians from 14 primary care practices were assigned via randomization to introduce a self-help booklet to promote dietary change at routine appointments. Delivery of the booklet was recorded by these intervention physicians at the clinic appointment; intervention participants were asked 3 months later in a telephone interview about whether they received and used the booklet.

Results.

According to physician documentation, 95 % of intervention participants who kept an appointment (n = 935) received the booklet; among participants completing a 3-month interview (n = 890), 96% reported the same. However, only about 50% of participants reported receiving the booklet from their physician; the remainder received the booklet from other clinic staff. Overall, 93 % reported reading at least part of the booklet. Use of the booklet varied little whether it was delivered by a physician or staff person, but it was more likely to be read as time spent discussing the booklet increased.

Conclusions.

Physician cooperation and evidence of intervention effectiveness support the use of primary care for the delivery of interventions to change diet; training the entire health team and repeating dietary advice at subsequent visits may improve the success of such interventions.
Le Maroc entre la transition démocratique et une nouvelle renaissance socioculturelle
Authors: Bouazza Benachir
Published: December 2011

Beside its role of integrating Morocco in a globalized vision that also takes into account the cultural diversity of the country, there is need for a nuance of the Arab Renaissance’ paradigm in relation to the socio-cultural context of Morocco. This double movement (globality and specificity) correlates with the critical and theoretical perspective of the dialectic intermingling of three different major socio-political horizons: democratic transition as a means and not an end in itself; the region as an indicator of democratic efficiency; and Morocco’s cultural and human diversity. The umbrella theme of these three elements isthe unmitigated political relationship between culture, society and democracy
Transcending the Impasse: Rethinking the ‘State’ and ‘Development’ in Africa
Authors: Bobuin John Gemandze
Published: December 2011

This paper contributes to the ongoing debate on alternative development strategies in Africa by considering some of the alternative theories of ‘development’ that have been advanced in response to the developmental impasse faced by African states. It argues that a serious re-evaluation of what ‘development’ entails is now required that should involve a clear theoretical break with mainstream development theory. After a brief overview of the main alternative theories of development that have been proposed, the paper argues that the way to transcend the development impasse in Africa is through the concept of the ‘developmental state’. It then discusses the major concepts of the developmental state before considering the feasibility of the developmental state in Africa and the key issues of state strength, state autonomy, authoritarianism and the role of the bourgeoisie. The paper argues for the centrality of democratic rural development for the feasibility of developmental states in Africa and concludes with a call to rethink the concept of development and the developmental state from the point of view of democracy and the collective.
Towards an online-coupled chemistry-climate model: evaluation of trace gases and aerosols in COSMO-ART
Authors: Knote C. , Brunner D. , Vogel H. , Allan J. , Asmi A. , Äijälä M. , Carbone S. , van der Gon H. D. , Jimenez J. L. , Kiendler-Scharr A. , Mohr C. , Poulain L. , Prévôt A. S. H. , Swietlicki E. , Vogel B.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. The online-coupled, regional chemistry transport model COSMO-ART is evaluated for periods in all seasons against several measurement datasets to assess its ability to represent gaseous pollutants and ambient aerosol characteristics over the European domain. Measurements used in the comparison include long-term station observations, satellite and ground-based remote sensing products, and complex datasets of aerosol chemical composition and number size distribution from recent field campaigns. This is the first time these comprehensive measurements of aerosol characteristics in Europe are used to evaluate a regional chemistry transport model. We show a detailed analysis of the simulated size-resolved chemical composition under different meteorological conditions. Mean, variability and spatial distribution of the concentrations of O3 and NOx are well reproduced. SO2 is found to be overestimated, simulated PM2.5 and PM10 levels are on average underestimated, as is AOD. We find indications of an overestimation of shipping emissions. Time evolution of aerosol chemical composition is captured, although some biases are found in relative composition. Nitrate aerosol components are on average overestimated, and sulfates underestimated. The accuracy of simulated organics depends strongly on season and location. While strongly underestimated during summer, organic mass is comparable in spring and autumn. We see indications for an overestimated fractional contribution of primary organic matter in urban areas and an underestimation of SOA at many locations. Aerosol number concentrations compare well with measurements for larger size ranges, but overestimations of particle number concentration with factors of 2–5 are found for particles smaller than 50 nm. Size distribution characteristics are often close to measurements, but show discrepancies at polluted sites. Suggestions for further improvement of the modeling system consist of the inclusion of a revised secondary organic aerosols scheme, aqueous-phase chemistry and improved aerosol boundary conditions. Our work sets the basis for subsequent studies of aerosol characteristics and climate impacts with COSMO-ART, and highlights areas where improvements are necessary for current regional modeling systems in general.
Assessment of Arias Intensity of historical earthquakes using modified Mercalli intensities and artificial neural networks
Authors: Tselentis G-A.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. This paper presents the development of a non-parametric forecast model based on artificial neural networks for the direct assessment of Arias Intensity corresponding to a historic earthquake using seismic intensity data. The neural models allow complex and nonlinear behaviour to be tracked. Application of this methodology on earthquakes with known instrumental data from Greece, showed that the artificial neural network forecast model have excellent data synthesis capability.
Seasonal variations of glacier dynamics at Kronebreen, Svalbard revealed by calving related seismicity
Authors: Köhler A. , Chapuis A. , Nuth C. , Kohler J. , Weidle C.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. We detect and cluster waveforms of seismic signals recorded close to the calving front of Kronebreen, Svalbard, to identify glacier-induced seismic events and to investigate their relation to calving processes. Single-channel geophone data recorded over several months in 2009 and 2010 are combined with eleven days of direct visual observations of the glacier front. We apply a processing scheme which combines conventional seismic event detection using a sensitive trigger algorithm and unsupervised clustering of all detected signals based on their waveform characteristics by means of Self-Organizing Maps (SOMs). We are able to distinguish between false detections, instrumental artifacts, and three classes of signals which are, with different degrees of uncertainty, emitted by calving activity. About 10 % of the directly observed calving events close to the geophone (<1 km) can be correlated with seismic detections. By extrapolating the interpretation of seismic event classes beyond the time period of visual observations, the temporal distribution of glacier-related events shows an increase in event rate in autumn, particularly for the class which is clearly related to iceberg calving. Using the seismic event distribution in this class as a proxy for the calving rate and measurements of glacier velocity and glacier front position, we discuss the relationship between glacier dynamics and calving processes. On the seasonal time-scale, the well-marked glacier acceleration in spring is not accompanied by an increase in calving related seismicity. With a slowdown in glacier velocity in autumn, however, a remarkable increase in calving related seismicity is observed. The rate of seismic events due to calving seems thus to behave rather independently from the actual glacier speed, suggesting a complex and indirect dynamical link between the two quantities.
Manifestaciones del doble mítico en las voces poéticas de Fernando Pessoa, Antonio Machado y Juan Ramón Jiménez
Authors: Lorenzo García Esther
Published: December 2011

En poesía, el motivo del doble mítico se manifiesta en las duplicidades que el sujeto lírico percibe en su interior durante el proceso de exploración del mundo y de su propia conciencia. En las voces seleccionadas (Antonio Machado, Fernando Pessoa y Juan Ramón Jiménez) este mito opera mediante tres esquemas básicos no excluyentes entre sí: el doble como aspiración a la plenitud, el doble como puente hacia el otro, el doble como escisión de la personalidad. En todos los casos, se pueden encontrar reelaboraciones que parten de la tradición literaria, desde los diálogos platónicos (el origen dual del ser humano, el poeta como ser “poseído”…) al Doppelgänger.
Alas de ira: la poética de la revolución y mitopoiesis en William Blake
Authors: Muñoz García Adrián
Published: December 2011

RESUMEN Este ensayo explora los mecanismos de interacción discursiva y simbólica en la poética de William Blake. Con especial énfasis en el poema América, se trata de analizar los espacios en que la inquietud política se mezcla con el imaginario religioso y la formación de la mitología personal de Blake. El interés que Blake tuvo por la Revolución Francesa y la Independencia de los Estados Unidos de Norteamérica se vio reflejado en su obra, pero también estuvo filtrado por su particular concepción de la humanidad, a su vez proyectada según un simbolismo modificado del cristianismo. Así, las revueltas políticas en los continentes americano y europeo quedan enmarcadas en un simbolismo apocalíptico que, en la visión mítica de Blake, promete la renovación espiritual del ser humano a través de la libertad social.
An Investigation of Taiwanese Doctoral Students’ Academic Writing at a U.S. University
Authors: Chou Li-hua
Published: December 2011

The United States has always been the top choice of Taiwanese university students who want to study abroad.Consequently, English writing is especially vital for doctoral dissertation; insufficient research deals with academicwriting of such students, despite its importance to their success. This paper aims to fill the gap by analyzing thecourse syllabi as well as interviews with Ph.D. students at a university in New York State. Task analysis and verbalreports of these students yielded significant insights that may contribute to more effective guidance for bothacademic writing instructors and curriculum developers in Taiwan.
China English: Its Distinctive Features
Authors: Yang Wei-dong , Dai Wei-ping
Published: December 2011

This paper attempts to expound that China English boasting its own distinctive features on the levels of phonology,words, sentences and discourse has been playing an irreplaceable role in intercultural activities, though still in itsinfancy and in the process of developing and perfecting itself, and it now makes every effort to move towardsinternational self-assurance and gain its recognition in the English family.
Structural Characterization of ZS – 2A: An Antiplasmodial Compound Isolated from Zizyphus spina-christi Root Bark
Authors: Adzu Bulus , Haruna Abdu Kaita , Ilyas Mohammad , Pateh Umar Usman , Tarfa Florence David , Chindo Ben Ahmed , Gamaniel Karniyus Shingu
Published: December 2011

Zizyphus spina-christi (Rhamnaceae) is a popular medicinal plant that grows wildly in Asia and Tropical Africa. The plant is widely used in ethnomedical practice for the treatment of fever. As a step towards the isolation of biologically active constituents of this plant, we carried out a bioassay guided extraction of the root bark using solvents of varying polarity including, hexane, chloroform, ethylacetate and methanol. An antiplasmodial compound, designated as ZS-2A, was isolated from the chloroform extract and the chemical structure of the compound was characterized using UVvisible, IR, 13C and 1H NMR and thermo-analytical techniques. Our analysis established ZS – 2A as a betulinic acid.
Carbon Nanotubes, Multi‐Walled
Authors: Andrews Rodney , Weisenberger Matthew C. , Qian Dali , Meier Mark S. , Cassity Kelby , Yeary Paul E.
Published: December 2011

Well‐aligned carbon multiwalled nanotubes (MWNTs) have been synthesized continuously by pyrolysis of xylene–ferrocene mixtures. To study the MWNT growth mechanism, two‐step processes and various chemical vapor deposition (CVD) parameters have been employed. Transmission electron microscopy observations support a tip‐root growth model of MWNTs by floating catalytic CVD. Hydrocarbon analyzer is used to measure the total carbon balance within the CVD reactor, while mass spectra analyses monitor the concentrations of hydrocarbon species, which helps to understand the catalyst deactivation and pyrolysis chemistry of xylene over catalyst Fe(C) nanoparticles. MWNTs can be treated to attach required functional groups on nanotube walls and/or caps for specific applications by various methods including acid oxidation, reduction, addition of radicals, and cycloadditions. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have shown promising applications in advanced CNT–polymer composites. To realize CNT potentials to enhance the properties of matrices, several important issues such as dispersion, orientation, interfacial effects, and processing parameters have been addressed. The dependence of the CNT–polymer composite properties on CNT diameter, length, and interfacial effects has been used to develop models to predict and optimize variables for maximum composite performance. CNT–polymer composites have been developed for enhanced mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties, which have wide applications for the next generation of truly multifunctional materials as well as lighter weights and increased manufacturability over current materials.
A dynamic control middleware for cyber physical systems on an IPv6‐based global network
Authors: Park Sang Oh , Do Tae Hoon , Jeong Young‐Sik , Kim Sung Jo
Published: December 2011

A cyber physical system (CPS) is a deeply embedded system that can be applied to home devices, medical equipment, cars, and so on. Because it is expected that a CPS system will be integrated with other CPSes designed for various areas to ultimately create a global CPS network, IPv6 is suitable for these large‐scale integrated network environments. In addition, it is important to reduce high network load for efficient device control. This paper proposes a dynamic control middleware for an efficient search and control of devices on an IPv6‐based global network from anywhere through smartphones along with a new mechanism intended to drastically reduce the number of messages that are generated for searching devices. We construct an IPv6‐based testbed using laptops and smartphones to demonstrate that this middleware can be adopted by mobile devices for dynamic remote control of home devices. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Segment design under consideration of the material used to fill the annular gap / Tübbingbemessung unter Berücksichtigung der Eigenschaften des Ringspaltmaterials
Authors: Thienert Christian , Pulsfort Matthias
Published: December 2011

For the structural design using the bedding modulus method of the linings of tunnels to be driven by shield machines in granular soil, the surrounding ground is normally discretised with radially arranged extension springs, the stiffness of which is derived from the load‐displacement behaviour of the surrounding ground (stiffness modulus Es). The precondition for this is that the properties of the mortar used to fill the annular gap at least correspond to those of the surrounding soil. If this is not the case – for example, if the grout is softer than a densely bedded non‐cohesive soil – corresponding negative effects on the deformation of the tunnel lining are to be expected. This can even lead to damage to the segments in the form of spalling or leaks. In order to be able to quantify such effects and consider them in future structural calculations, the results of a parameter study using the finite‐element method (FEM) for a tunnel in water‐saturated granular soil are presented and a simply applied, modified bedding approach is proposed on this basis.

Bei der Bemessung von Tübbingschalen für im Schildvortrieb aufzufahrende Tunnel im Lockergestein mithilfe des Bettungsmodulverfahrens wird der umgebende Baugrund in einem ebenen Berechnungsausschnitt üblicherweise durch radial angeordnete Dehnfedern diskretisiert, deren Steifigkeit aus dem Last‐Verformungs‐Verhalten des Bodens (Steifemodul Es) abgeleitet wird. Voraussetzung hierfür ist, dass die Eigenschaften des im Zuge der Ringspaltverpressung eingesetzten Mörtelmaterials mindestens jenen des umgebenden Bodens entsprechen. Ist dies nicht der Fall – beispielsweise wenn das Verpressgut weicher als ein dicht gelagerter nicht bindiger Boden ist – sind entsprechende negative Auswirkungen auf die Verformungen des Tunnelausbaus und auf dessen Biegebeanspruchung zu erwarten. Letztlich können hierdurch sogar Tübbingschäden in Form von Abplatzungen und Leckagen begünstigt werden. Um entsprechende Einflüsse bei einer statischen Berechnung zukünftig quantifizieren und berücksichtigen zu können, werden Ergebnisse einer Parameterstudie nach der Methode der Finiten Elemente (FEM) für einen Tunnel in wassergesättigtem Lockergestein vorgestellt und auf deren Grundlage ein einfach handhabbarer, modifizierter Bettungsansatz vorgeschlagen.
The impact of emerging institutional norms on adoption timing decisions: evidence from C‐TPAT—A government antiterrorism initiative
Authors: Ritchie William J. , Melnyk Steven A.
Published: December 2011

Drawing upon an institutional theoretic perspective, this study explores the performance outcomes associated with adoption timing and level of investment in a government antiterrorism initiative—the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C‐TPAT). Using a large‐scale sample of C‐TPAT certified importers, this study found that performance outcomes for high levels of investment in adoption processes differ depending upon the strength of institutional forces. Specifically, early adopters of C‐TPAT processes in a weak institutional context that reported high levels of investment performed no better than firms who invested nominally in the processes, while late adopters in a strong institutional context that reported high investment levels outperformed those that invested nominally. This finding can be explained by viewing C‐TPAT as an ‘emerging’ institution, where forces are coalescing. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Testing convective transport on short time scales: Comparisons with mass divergence and ozone anomaly patterns about high rain events
Authors: Mitovski Toni , Folkins Ian , Martin Randall V. , Cooper Matthew
Published: December 2011

High rain events in the western tropical Pacific were identified using the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) 3B42 gridded rainfall data set. Horizontal wind measurements from radiosonde arrays, cloud top frequency measurements from CALIPSO, and ozonesonde measurements from SHADOZ were used to construct anomaly patterns of divergence, cloud top frequency, and ozone mixing ratio about the high rain events. The observed divergence anomaly pattern was compared with patterns produced by the Goddard Earth Observing System version 4 (GEOS‐4) and GEOS‐5 assimilated meteorological data sets. The midlevel (∼6 km) divergence dipole seen in observations, consisting of a local maximum in divergence 8 h before peak rainfall and a local maximum in convergence 8 h after peak rainfall, is not represented in the GEOS‐4 or GEOS‐5 meteorology. The ozone anomaly pattern shows ozone decreases at midlevels (3–8 km) up to 16 h prior to peak rainfall. These decreases occur in association with increases in the frequency of midlevel cloud tops and are due to increased detrainment from cumulus congestus clouds. The observed ozone anomaly pattern was compared with anomaly patterns produced by the GEOS‐Chem chemical transport model, driven by GEOS‐4 and GEOS‐5 assimilated winds and temperatures. The GEOS‐Chem simulations also exhibit negative ozone anomalies at midlevels in association with high rain events. However, these anomalies are nearly symmetric about peak rainfall, rather than strongest prior to peak rainfall. The upper level negative ozone anomalies of the models are more persistent than the observations. These results help characterize some of the difficulties of meteorological data sets in capturing the layered character of tropical convective outflow and its timing with respect to high rain events.
Estimating the spatial cumulative distribution of rain from precipitation amounts
Authors: Luini L. , Capsoni C.
Published: December 2011

This contribution describes SPET (Spatial P(R) Estimation Technique), a methodology aimed at estimating the spatial rain rate complementary cumulative distribution function, PS(R), from Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) rain precipitation data. SPET has been calibrated making use of a large database of rain maps derived from the S‐band weather radar sited in Spino d'Adda, Italy, while its performance has been assessed against an independent data set derived from the NIMROD C‐band radar network. Results indicate that SPET performance improves as both the observation area and reference time interval increase, which adds confidence to its use to estimate PS(R) starting from global rainfall data produced by meteorological re‐analyses. SPET also proved to correctly predict the fractional rainy area, showing an RMS of the relative error that falls approximately between 15% and 20% for area and time interval values typical of NWP re‐analysis data. As a final step, the proposed technique has been used to predict long‐term rainfall statistics collected by rain gauges worldwide, receiving as input rainfall data extracted from 10 years of ERA40 products (ergodicity of the rain field). Very good performances have been obtained, only limited by the poor quality of the input data.
Analytical and experimental study on the fluid structure interaction during air blast loading
Authors: Wang Erheng , Wright Jefferson , Shukla Arun
Published: December 2011

A new fluid-structure interaction model that considers high gas compressibility is developed using the Rankine–Hugoniot relations. The impulse conservation between the gas and structure is utilized to determine the reflected pressure profile from the known incident pressure profile. The physical parameters of the gas such as the shock front velocity, gas density, local sound velocity, and gas particle velocity as well as the impulse transmitted onto the structure are also evaluated. A series of one-dimensional shock loading experiments on free standing monolithic aluminum plates were conducted using a shock tube to validate the proposed model. The momentum was evaluated using high speed digital imagery. The experimental peak reflected pressure, the reflected pressure profile, and the momentum transmitted onto the plate were compared with the predicted results. The comparisons show that the gas’s compressibility significantly affects the fluid structure interaction behavior, and the new model can predict more accurate results than existing models. The effect of factors, such as the areal density of a plate and the peak incident pressure on momentum transfer are also discussed using the present model. Moreover, the maximum achievable momentum and the fluid structure interaction time are defined and calculated.
Preliminary characterization of a low-powered microwave induced flame plasma for direct organic solvent nebulization
Authors: Ng Kin C. , Bucay Phil
Published: December 2011

A low powered (<90 W) microwave-induced plasma has been generated at atmospheric pressure by using a Beenakker cavity, a laboratory constructed torch, and a gas mixture of argon (400 ml/min), hydrogen (100 ml/min), and air (130 ml/min). This plasma has an excitation temperature of 3300–3500 K, electron number density of 7 × 1014 cm−3, and easily accepts direct methanol and ethanol introduction with a 1 ml/min solution nebulization rate. Detection limits (3σ) obtained from the atomic emission signals of Li, Sr, and Cr in water are 15, 120, and 290 ng/ml, respectively. Similarly, detection limits for the metals in methanol are 15, 120, and 260 ng/ml, respectively, and in ethanol they are 25, 360, and 330 ng/ml, respectively. The linear dynamic range is greater than three orders of magnitude.
Localization and retention of p90 ribosomal S6 kinase 1 in the nucleus: implications for its function
Authors: Gao Xianlong , Chaturvedi Deepti , Patel Tarun B.
Published: December 2011

Ribosomal S6 kinase 1 (RSK1) belongs to a family of proteins with two kinase domains. Following activation in the cytoplasm by extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1/2), it mediates the cell-proliferative, cell-growth, and survival-promoting actions of a number of growth factors and other agonists. These diverse biological actions of RSK1 involve regulation of both cytoplasmic and nuclear events. However, the mechanisms that permit nuclear accumulation of RSK1 remain unknown. Here, we show that phosphorylation of RSK1 on S221 is important for its dissociation from the type Iα regulatory subunit of protein kinase A (PKA) in the cytoplasm and that RSK1 contains a bipartite nuclear localization sequence that is necessary for its nuclear entry. Once inside, the active RSK1 is retained in the nucleus via its interactions with PKA catalytic subunit and AKAP95. Mutations of RSK1 that do not affect its activity but disrupt its entry into the nucleus or expression of AKAP95 forms that do not enter the nucleus inhibit the ability of active RSK1 to stimulate DNA synthesis. Our findings identify novel mechanisms by which active RSK1 accumulates in the nucleus and also provide new insights into how AKAP95 orchestrates cell cycle progression.
Manual Dissection and Fixation of Drosophila Egg Chambers for Whole-Mount FISH
Authors: Dernburg Abby F.
Published: December 2011

This article describes a procedure for the manual dissection and fixation of Drosophila egg chambers for whole-mount fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). Egg chambers are more challenging to fix than embryos. They are easily overfixed so that probes will not penetrate well into the oocyte nucleus, even if some hybridization is detected in the follicle and nurse cells closer to the surface. If late-stage oocytes are to be examined, the tissue must also be protected against osmotic shock before and during fixation, because this will activate metaphase-arrested nuclei to undergo the metaphase–anaphase transition. Warming the buffered formaldehyde to 30°C immediately prior to fixation tends to enhance probe penetration. In contrast to reported results with immunostaining, FISH is equally successful whether fixation is performed with freshly prepared formaldehyde or commercial formaldehyde solutions. Manual dissection of fixed ovarioles gives a much higher yield per adult than the blender technique (facilitating analysis of mutants), and younger egg chambers in particular will be enriched, although the procedure itself is more laborious.
Co‐Localisation of Kisspeptin with Galanin or Neurokinin B in Afferents to Mouse GnRH Neurones
Authors: Kalló I. , Vida B. , Deli L. , Molnár C. S. , Hrabovszky E. , Caraty A. , Ciofi P. , Coen C. W. , Liposits Z.
Published: December 2011

The gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) secreting neurones, which form the final common pathway for the central regulation of reproduction, are directly targeted by kisspeptin (KP) via the G protein‐coupled receptor, GPR54. In these multiple labelling studies, we used ovariectomised mice treated with 17β‐oestradiol (OVX + E2) or vehicle (OVX + oil) to determine: (i) the ultrastructural characteristics of KP‐immunoreactive (IR) afferents to GnRH neurones; (ii) their galanin or neurokinin B (NKB) content; and (iii) the co‐expression of galanin or NKB with KP in the two major subpopulations of KP neurones located in the rostral periventricular area of the third ventricle (RP3V) and the arcuate nucleus (Arc). Electron microscopic investigation of the neuronal juxtapositions revealed axosomatic and axodendritic synapses; these showed symmetrical or asymmetrical characteristics, suggesting a phenotypic diversity of KP afferents. Heterogeneity of afferents was also demonstrated by differential co‐expression of neuropeptides; in OVX + E2 mice, KP afferents to GnRH neurones showed galanin‐immunoreactivity with an incidence of 22.50 ± 2.41% and NKB‐immunoreactivity with an incidence of 5.61 ± 2.57%. In OVX + oil animals, galanin‐immunoreactivity in the KP afferents showed a major reduction, appearing in only 5.78 ± 1.57%. Analysis for co‐localisation of galanin or NKB with KP was extended to the perikaryal level in animal models, which showed the highest KP incidence; these were OVX + E2 females for the RP3V and OVX + oil females for the ARC. In the RP3V of colchicine‐treated OVX + E2 animals, 87.84 ± 2.65% of KP‐IR neurones were galanin positive. In the Arc of the colchicine‐treated OVX + oil animals, galanin immunoreactivity was detected in only 12.50 ± 1.92% of the KP expressing neurones. By contrast, the incidence of co‐localisation with NKB in the Arc of those animals was 98.09 ± 1.30%. In situ hybridisation histochemistry of sections from OVX + E2 animals identified galanin message in more than a third of the KP neurones in the RP3V (38.67 ± 11.57%) and in the Arc (42.50 ± 12.52%). These data suggest that GnRH neurones are innervated by chemically heterogeneous KP cell populations, with a small proportion deriving from the Arc group. The presence of galanin within KP axons innervating GnRH neurones and the oestrogen‐dependent regulation of that presence add a new dimension to the roles played by galanin in the central regulation of reproduction.
Susceptibility to pulmonary tuberculosis in Iranian individuals is not affected by compound KIR/HLA genotype
Authors: Tajik N. , Shah‐hosseini A. , Mohammadi A. , Jafari M. , Nasiri M. , Radjabzadeh M. F. , Farnia P. , Jalali A.
Published: December 2011

Natural killer (NK) cells have distinctive functional capacities that are likely to contribute both to innate and adaptive immunity to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIR) and their ligands, i.e. human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules contribute partly in regulation of NK cell activity. In this study, the impact of compound KIR/HLA genotype on susceptibility to pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) has been evaluated in Iranian individuals. A total of 107 TB patients and 100 matched healthy controls were genotyped for 17 KIR genes and their three major HLA class I ligand groups (‐C1, ‐C2 and ‐Bw4: ‐B Bw4Ile80, ‐B Bw4Thr80 and ‐A Bw4) by a polymerase chain reaction‐sequence‐specific primers assay. Various analyses including distribution of KIR and HLA ligand genes and genotypes, frequency of inhibitory and activating KIR+HLA combinations and compound genotype status regarding balance of inhibitory and activating components showed no significant difference between patient and control groups. These findings may suggest that compound KIR/HLA genotype has no major impact on limiting Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection.
Sequential liver–kidney transplantation in a boy with congenital hepatic fibrosis and nephronophthisis from a living donor
Authors: Udagawa Tomohiro , Kamei Koichi , Ogura Masao , Tsutsumi Akiko , Noda Shunsuke , Kasahara Mureo , Fukuda Akinari , Sakamoto Seisuke , Shigeta Shigenobu , Tanaka Hideaki , Kuroda Tatsuo , Matsuoka Kentarou , Nakazawa Atuko , Nagai Takuto , Uemura Osamu , Ito Shuichi
Published: December 2011

Udagawa T, Kamei K, Ogura M, Tsutsumi A, Noda S, Kasahara M, Fukuda A, Sakamoto S, Shigeta S, Tanaka H, Kuroda T, Matsuoka K, Nakazawa A, Nagai T, Uemura O, Ito S. Sequential liver–kidney transplantation in a boy with congenital hepatic fibrosis and nephronophthisis from a living donor.  Pediatr Transplantation 2011. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  A five‐yr‐old boy developed chronic liver failure and ESKD because of CHF and juvenile NPHP. He underwent sequential liver and kidney transplantation with a compatible blood type from his father, at five yr, seven months and five yr, 11 months old, respectively. Because the patient was not in ESKD, we initially performed LDLT because of significant portal hypertension. Even after LDLT, his ascites was not ameliorated, and he needed continuous drainage of ascites and daily albumin and gamma globulin infusion. Thereafter, he progressed to ESKD and needed hemodialysis for one month before LDKT. CDC crossmatch for donor B cells in the warm test, FCXM for B cell IgG, and flow PRA for donor class II were positive before LDKT. After pretreatment of three courses of plasma exchange and intravenous gamma globulin, LDKT was performed. Two weeks after LDKT, AIHA concomitant with autoimmune thrombocytopenia, also called Evans syndrome, occurred because of passenger lymphocytes from the donor; however, the patient was successfully treated with intravenous methylprednisolone. Eighteen months have passed since LDKT, and liver and kidney function in both the recipient and donor are normal.
Hyaluronan in intra‐operative edema of NF1‐associated neurofibromas
Authors: Hagel Christian , Behrens Timo , Prehm Peter , Schnabel Claudia , Glatzel Markus , Friedrich Reinhard E.
Published: December 2011

The tumor suppressor disorder neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is associated with development of multiple neurofibromas which may grow intraneurally as plexiform neurofibromas (PNF) or intracutaneously (CNF). Upon surgery neurofibromas may show prominent swelling hindering skin‐edge approximation. To assess whether the water binding glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan is involved in intra‐operative swelling, 51 neurofibromas from 33 NF1‐patients were investigated. Hyaluronan was histologically demonstrated and was quantified by ELISA. Molecular weight of hyaluronan was determined by gel filtration. Further, hyaluronan content was measured in cultivated Schwann cells and fibroblasts. Clinically, 67% of PNF were associated with moderate or severe intra‐operative swelling, whereas only 36% of CNF showed this feature. Significantly higher levels of hyaluronan content were found in PNF compared to CNF (P < 0.05). Mast cell density did not correlate with any of the parameters. Molecular weight of hyaluronan in PNF and CNF ranged from higher than 106 Da to approximately 105 Da. Fibroblasts produced less hyaluronan than Schwann cells. The findings support the view that hyaluronan plays an important role in intra‐operative swelling in neurofibroma surgery.
Why Governments Should Use the Government Finance Statistics Accounting System
Authors: BARTON ALLAN
Published: December 2011

In May 2008, the Australian government presented its budget to parliament solely in terms of the IMF Government Finance Statistics (GFS) accounting system; and in December 2008 it announced that all outcome financial statements were also to be GFS based.

These two decisions brought to an end a long and arduous controversy over the use of accrual accounting by governments in Australia since their adoption the early 1990s. Initially, the Australian Accounting Standards (AAS) business‐based system was adopted, with a few modest extensions covering the public sector. However, there was much controversy over the displacement of cash accounting and budgeting systems by accrual accounting; and secondly whether the AAS system was appropriate for the public sector.

In May 1999, the Australian government introduced accrual budgeting in place of cash budgets. However two sets of accrual budgets were presented to parliament—an AAS‐based one and a GFS‐based one. The two budgets presented substantially different results, causing endless confusion in parliament. Furthermore, departments and the whole of government continued to present only AAS outcome financial statements.

In this paper, the above history is traced out together with the reasons for the decisions. The final decision to adopt the GFS system, covering both cash and accrual accounting systems, is explained in terms of the roles and operating environments of governments. These determine the financial information needs of government, and they are shown to be fundamentally different from those of business. Finally, the structure and concepts used in the GFS system are explained.
The Macro‐Fiscal Role of the U.K. Whole of Government Account
Authors: HEALD DAVID , GEORGIOU GEORGE
Published: December 2011

The U.K. Whole of Government Account (WGA) has been conceived by the Treasury as having a macro‐fiscal role. This WGA is about fiscal transparency at the aggregate level, rather than at a more disaggregated level with regard to public sector decision makers at tiers of government, each with their own chain of accountability. This paper analyses the U.K. conception of the WGA, examining its theoretical background and evolution since the 1995 decision to convert central government accounting from cash to accruals. The definition of the area of consolidation is governed by statute, the declared intention being to align as far as possible with the national accounts definitions that provide the basis for fiscal aggregates, thereby overriding IAS 27. Net liabilities per WGA is mapped in this paper to macro‐fiscal aggregates, including public sector net debt (the U.K. preferred measure), general government gross debt (the EU preferred measure) and public sector net worth (national accounts). Conceptually, the WGA measure is situated between net debt (against which only liquid assets are netted) and the long‐term cash projections developed by the Treasury. Insights are provided into the damage inflicted on U.K. public finances by a period of over‐optimism about fiscal performance and the economy's heavy exposure to the global financial crisis. Fiscal retrenchment in all countries can have a substantial illusory component, as proposals may reduce some measures of deficit and debt at the expense of the public sector balance sheet, to which the WGA draws attention. These measures may include: privatizing state assets; neglecting existing public sector assets; cutting public sector capital expenditure; substituting public–private partnerships for conventional procurement; and posting bills to the future. The U.K. WGA may also institutionalize some protection against accounting arbitrage that distorts policy choices and fiscal reporting. Well‐documented reconciliations between figures derived from national accounts and from IFRS‐based financial reporting are therefore imperative for fiscal transparency.
Implementation of a pediatric trauma massive transfusion protocol: one institution's experience
Authors: Hendrickson Jeanne E. , Shaz Beth H. , Pereira Greg , Parker Paul M. , Jessup Paula , Atwell Falisha , Polstra Beth , Atkins Elizabeth , Johnson Karen K. , Bao Gaobin , Easley Kirk A. , Josephson Cassandra D.
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND: Massive transfusion protocols (MTPs) with fixed ratios of blood products may improve outcomes in coagulopathic adult trauma patients. However, there is a paucity of data on transfusion support protocols for pediatric trauma patients, whose mechanisms of injury may differ from those seen in adults. We hypothesized that an MTP would improve outcomes in children, through a balanced blood product resuscitation.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A pediatric trauma MTP, with a fixed ratio of red blood cells (RBCs) : fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP) : platelets : cryoprecipitate in quantities based on the patient's weight, was initiated at a pediatric hospital. Data on clinical status, resuscitation volumes, and hospital course were collected and compared to data from pre‐MTP trauma patients requiring transfusion.

RESULTS: Fifty‐three patients were enrolled over a 15‐month period and compared to 49 pre‐MTP patients. Seventy‐two percent of MTP patients had at least one coagulation value outside of the normal range upon emergency department (ED) arrival, and the median time to FFP transfusion decreased fourfold after MTP implementation (p < 0.0001). A total of 49% of MTP patients received greater than 70 mL/kg blood products, and the 24‐hour median FFP : RBC transfusion ratio was twofold higher in these patients than the pre‐MTP cohort (median, 1:1.8 vs. 1:3.6; p = 0.002). No improvement in mortality was observed after MTP implementation, taking into consideration injury severity, prothrombin time, and partial thromboplastin time.

CONCLUSIONS: A pediatric trauma MTP is feasible and allows for rapid provision of balanced blood products for transfusion to coagulopathic children. Larger studies are warranted to determine whether such protocols will improve outcomes for pediatric trauma patients.