bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of calcitonin gene‐related peptide on tracheal smooth muscle of guinea‐pigs in vitro
Authors: Ninomiya Hiroki , Uchida Yoshiyuki , Endo Takeo , Ohtsuka Masahito , Nomura Akihiro , Saotome Mikio , Hasegawa Shizuo
Published: July 2012

The effect of calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) on airway smooth muscle is controversial. The aim of this study was to determine whether the action of CGRP on tracheal strips of guinea‐pigs is modulated by epithelium and whether this peptide‐induced action involves other mediators including nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin (ET)‐1.

CGRP produced a weak dose‐dependent increase in guinea‐pig tracheal tension in vitro (‐log EC50 = 8.5 ± 0.1, maximum contraction = 8.3 ± 1.2% of 50 mM KCl‐induced contraction, n = 6). In epithelium‐depleted preparations, CGRP (10−7 m)‐induced contraction was significantly potentiated from 9.0 ± 1.9% to 41.1 ± 6.0% (n = 6).

L‐NG‐nitro‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME, 10−4 m), which inhibits NO synthesis, enhanced the contractile response to CGRP from 9.0 ± 1.9% to 31.2 ± 1.1% (n = 6). Indomethacin (10−5 m) also enhanced the response to CGRP, although the effect was weak (13.4 ± 3.2%, n = 6).

Anti‐ET‐1 serum changed the CGRP‐induced contraction into a relaxation. After incubation of the trachea with ET‐1 (10−7 m) to attenuate ET‐1‐induced responses, the CGRP‐induced contraction also changed into a relaxation. BQ‐123 (an ETA receptor antagonist) and BQ‐788 (an ETB receptor antagonist) caused the same conversion of the CGRP response, from contraction to relaxation, although the relaxing effect elicited by BQ‐788 was more potent than that by BQ‐123. Maximum inhibitory responses were −31.0 ± 3.3% and −13.0 ± 2.3% of 50 mM KCl‐induced contraction, respectively (n = 6).

In primary culture, guinea‐pig tracheal epithelial cells released ET‐1, and CGRP (10−5 m) significantly increased the release of ET‐1.

These data suggest that the action of CGRP is modulated by airway epithelium and this mechanism involves the release of NO and ET‐1. Especially, the majority of contractile action elicited by CGRP consists of an action of ET‐1 via the predominant ETB receptor.
The P2Y purinoceptor in rat brain microvascular endothelial cells couple to inhibition of adenylate cyclase
Authors: Webb Tania E. , Feolde Erick , Vigne Paul , Neary Joseph T. , Runberg Anna , Frelin Christian , Barnard Eric A.
Published: July 2012

BIO cells, a clonal line of rat brain capillary endothelial cells, exhibit a single P2 purinoceptor, activation of which leads to increases in free intracellular calcium. In the current study the identity of this P2Y receptor was determined by its binding parameters for a range of purinoceptor ligands and by its complementary DNA (cDNA) sequence. The signal transduction mechanism activated by this receptor was also investigated.

The radioligand [35S]‐dATPαS bound with high affinity (Kd = 9.8nM) to the P2Y purinoceptor expressed on B10 cells, which was found to be extremely abundant (Bmax = 22.5 pmol mg−1 protein). The calculated Ki values of a range of P2 purinoceptor agonists which competitively displaced binding of [35S]‐dATPαS led to the rank order of affinity: dATPαS (Ki 3.4 nM) > 2‐chloroATP (2‐ClATP) (13 nM), ATP (22 nM) > ATPγS (43 nM) > 2‐methylthioATP (2‐MeSATP) (88 nM) > ADP (368 nM) > > UTP, L‐β,γ‐methyleneATP (both > 10,000 nM). The P2 purinoceptor antagonists, Reactive blue 2 and suramin, were also able to displace binding, with Ki values of 833 and 1358 nM respectively. In contrast pyridoxal‐phosphate‐6‐azophenyl‐2′,4′‐disulphonic acid 4‐sodium (PPADS) was able to displace only 20% of [35S]‐dATPαS binding at a concentration of 100 μm

2‐ClATP (EC50 = 0.22 μm), 2‐MeSATP (0.54 μm), ADP (7.9 μm) and ATP (a partial agonist), but not UTP, inhibited the cyclic AMP formation stimulated by cholera toxin, in a manner that was prevented by pertussis toxin. The purinoceptor antagonist, PPADS, was found to be inactive at a concentration of 100 μm

A P2Y receptor cDNA was derived from mRNA from B10 cells and from C6‐2B, a rat glioma cell line known to possess a P2Y receptor that is coupled to the inhibition of adenylate cyclase. Sequence analysis of the entire coding region revealed that both were 100% identical to the rat P2Y1 purinoceptor cDNA. No other P2Y‐type receptor mRNA could be detected in B10 cells. Exactly the same sequence was isolated from rat brain cortical astrocytes, where 2‐MeSATP has been shown to increase phospholipase C activity.

Since the receptor responsible for the transduction shares with the aforementioned binding site significant pharmacological features, including a strong activity of 2‐MeSATP (characteristic of P2Y1 receptors alone among all known P2Y purinoceptors) and an unusual insensitivity to PPADS, and since abundant mRNA is present of the P2Y2 receptor but not of any other type resembling the known P2Y receptors, it is concluded that a P2Y1 receptor on rat brain microvascular endothelial cells can account for all of the observations. This single P2Y1 receptor, therefore, appears to couple in different native cell types to either adenylate cyclase inhibition or to phospholipase C activation.
Lack of beneficial effects of the NO‐donor, molsidomine, in the L‐NAME‐induced pre‐eclamptic syndrome in pregnant rats
Authors: Richer Christine , Boulanger Henri , Es‐Slami Samira , Giudicelli Jean‐François
Published: July 2012

In pregnant rats, chronic NO‐synthase inhibition induces the development of a pre‐eclamptic syndrome, characterized by an increase in maternal blood pressure, a loss of vascular refractoriness to pressor stimuli, a reduction in litter size and a decrease in pups (and maternal) weight. We investigated whether a NO‐donor, molsidomine, administered during NO synthase inhibition, could restore a normal pregnancy.

Pregnant rats were given daily, starting from day 14 of gestation, saline (controls), or L‐NAME (50 mg kg−1 d−1), or molsidomine (15 or 30 mg kg−1 d−1), or the L‐NAME + molsidomine combinations. Maternal blood pressure and body weight, litter size, pups weight and vascular reactivity to pressor stimuli (angiotensin II, noradrenaline, electrical stimulation of the spinal cord) were investigated.

L‐NAME alone, as compared to controls, increased maternal blood pressure, reduced litter size (−59%), increased foetal reabsorptions (+625%) and decreased foetal weight (−10%). Vascular reactivity to pressor stimuli was enhanced.

Molsidomine alone, as compared to controls, dose‐dependently decreased maternal blood pressure but had no effect on vascular reactivity and, whatever the dose, on foetal outcome.

The L‐NAME‐molsidomine combinations dose (of molsidomine)‐dependently limited the rise in maternal blood pressure induced by L‐NAME alone but unexpectedly, dose‐dependently and significantly worsened pregnancy evolution, e.g., at 30 mg kg−1d−1: litter size (−80%), foetal reabsorptions (+1025%), foetal weight (−24%). Vascular reactivity to pressor stimuli was paradoxically further enhanced.

Thus, in a chronic NO deprivation‐induced model of pre‐eclampsia in rats, molsidomine, possibly because of its hypotensive action, worsens the foetal outcome, which questions the usefulness of NO‐donors in pre‐eclamptic women.
Naphthoquinone colorants from Arnebia nobilis Rech.f
Authors: Arora Anjali , Gupta Deepti , Rastogi Deepali , Gulrajani Mohan
Published: July 2012

The roots of Arnebia nobilis have traditionally been used as a colorant in food and cosmetic preparations. The deep red colour obtained is attributed to the presence of shikonin and its isomer alkannin and their derivatives. In this study, five colouring components were extracted from the roots of A. nobilis. These were separated and purified chromatographically and characterised using various spectrophotometric techniques. Three of the five components were identified. The major component was found to be alkannin β, β‐dimethylacrylate [5,8‐dihydroxy‐2‐(1′‐β, β‐dimethylacryloxy‐4′‐methylpent‐3′‐enyl)‐1,4‐naphthoquinone], accounting for nearly 25% of the total colouring matter. Alkannin acetate [2‐(1′‐acetoxy‐4′‐methylpent‐3′‐enyl)‐5,8‐dihydroxy‐1,4‐naphthoquinone] made up ca. 8% and shikonin [(5,8‐dihydroxy‐4′‐methylpent‐3′‐enyl)‐1,4‐naphthoquinone] contributed ca. 6% of the colouring matter. Polyester was dyed pink, nylon was dyed blue and all other substrates acquired a purple hue under similar dyeing conditions. The dyed fabrics showed excellent wash, rub and perspiration fastness; however, light fastness was found to be poor.
The Importance of Contract Design
Authors: Kim Yong Woon , Brown Trevor L.
Published: July 2012

This article examines the contract design decisions of three federal agencies—the Departments of Health and Human Services, Defense, and Homeland Security—using five years of data from the Federal Procurement Data System. Three basic contract design elements are charted—type (fixed price versus cost reimbursement), length, and value—across simple to complex products. All three agencies use short‐term, fixed‐price contracts for the majority of the purchases that they make. This basic contract design allows agencies to tap the benefits of competition: innovation and cost‐efficiency. However, the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security often dramatically increase the length and value of contracts through modifications to initial agreements. This approach forgoes the benefits of competition and may expose the agency to the risk of cost overruns, delivery delays, and diminished product quality.
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Therapy in Patients with Cardiac Sarcoidosis
Authors: SCHULLER JOSEPH L. , ZIPSE MATTHEW , CRAWFORD THOMAS , BOGUN FRANK , BESHAI JOHN , PATEL AMIT R. , SWEISS NADERA J. , NGUYEN DUY T. , ALEONG RYAN G. , VAROSY PAUL D. , WEINBERGER HOWARD D. , SAUER WILLIAM H.
Published: July 2012

ICD Shocks in Cardiac Sarcoidosis. Background: An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is indicated for some patients with cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) for prevention of sudden death. However, there are little data regarding the event rates of ICD therapies in these patients. We sought to identify the incidence and characteristics of ICD therapies in this patient population.

Methods: We performed a cohort study of patients with ICDs at 3 institutions. Cases were those patients with CS and an ICD implanted for primary or secondary prevention of sudden death. Additionally, we included a comparison with historical controls of ICD therapy rates reported in clinical trials evaluating the ICD for primary and secondary prevention of sudden death.

Results: Of the 112 CS subjects identified, 36 (32.1%) received appropriate therapies for ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VT) over a mean follow‐up period of 29.2 months. VT storm (>3 episodes in 24 hours) occurred in 16 (14.2%) CS subjects. Inappropriate therapies occurred in 13 CS subjects (11.6%). Covariates associated with appropriate ICD therapies included left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <55% (OR 6.52 [95% CI 2.43–17.5]), right ventricular dysfunction (OR 6.73 [95% CI 2.69–16.8]), and symptomatic heart failure (OR 4.33 [95% CI 1.86–10.1]).

Conclusions: In our cohort of patients with CS and ICDs, almost one‐third receive appropriate therapies. This may be due to a myocardial inflammatory process leading to increased triggered activity and subsequent scarring leading to reentrant tachyarrhythmias. Adjusted predictors of ICD therapies in this population include left or right ventricular dysfunction. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 925‐929, September 2012)
Creating model consumers: Producing ethnicity, race, and class in Asian American advertising
Authors: Shankar Shalini
Published: July 2012

How does Asian American advertising contribute to the construction of race and ethnicity in the contemporary United States? In this article, I consider how executives write advertising copy and create original artwork for Asian American advertisements in ways that index brand identities. I introduce the analytic of “metaproduction,” a process of material and linguistic signification that uses metacultural and metalinguistic values to connect microlevel signification of language and culture with broader social meanings and values. Analysis of ethnographic data from New York City advertising agencies shows how racialization occurs through the transformation of Asian Americans from model minority producers into model minority consumers.
Configuring the authentic value of real food: Farm‐to‐fork, snout‐to‐tail, and local food movements
Authors: Weiss Brad
Published: July 2012

The partibility of pigs and the circulation of their parts—from snout to tail, as the popular culinary phrase puts it—are routinely celebrated in communities committed to eating “local.” In this article, I explore how different kinds of totalities are configured in the practices of such “locavore” actors with respect to pigs and pork. Approaches as varied as Sausseurean structuralism, functionalist sociology, and actor network theory characterize their objects of inquiry as totalities constituted by relationships among component parts. So too the totalities in relationships forged via pigs become (mis)aligned with the totality of pigs as embodied, complex organisms. Such wholes from parts reveal the overdetermination (or fetishization) of the “connections” (between farmers and consumers, chefs and diners, humans and animals) extolled by “local food” actors.
Intragranular Tungsten/Zirconium Carbide Nanocomposites via a Selective Liquid/Solid Displacement Reaction
Authors: Lipke David W. , Zhang Yunshu , Cai Ye , Sandhage Kenneth H.
Published: July 2012

A selective liquid/solid displacement reaction has been used, for the first time, to convert non‐oxide ceramic solid solutions into composites comprised of intragranular metal nanoparticles embedded within non‐oxide ceramic microcrystals. The reaction of (ZrxW1−x)C microparticles with a Zr–Cu liquid at 1300°C resulted in the formation of W/ZrC microparticles with a core‐shell morphology. The internal microparticle core was comprised of W nanoparticles embedded within a single crystal ZrC matrix, whereas the W‐free shell was comprised of an epitaxial layer of ZrC. Such a selective liquid/solid reaction process may be used to generate a variety of intragranular metal/ceramic‐matrix composites.
Consumer valuation of safety‐labeled free‐range chicken: results of a field experiment in Hanoi
Authors: Ifft Jennifer , Roland‐Holst David , Zilberman David
Published: July 2012

This article presents results of a field experiment designed to assess willingness to pay for safely produced free‐range chicken in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Improved safety of chicken production and trading is suggested as an important component of avian influenza control strategy, which aims to address the direct costs of avian influenza as well as the global public health externality. However, consumer demand for safely produced free‐range chicken is unknown. Products that have credible food labeling are not common in traditional markets where the majority of free‐range chicken is purchased. Valuing characteristics of products sold in informal markets is a major challenge that our experiment overcomes. As part of the experiment, we provided several vendors from these markets with safety‐labeled free‐range chicken. Consumer valuation of safety labeling was elicited through having experiment participants, who were representative of potential consumers, select between discount coupons for either safety‐labeled chicken or regular chicken. Results indicate that consumers will pay at least $0.50, or a 10–15% premium, per chicken purchase for safety labeling, which emphasizes safe production, processing, and transport conditions. This premium is smaller than the premium currently paid for traditional chicken varieties that are considered to be tastier. Consumers with more education have higher valuation of safety labeling. Hence, safety labeling for high‐quality free‐range chicken can play a role in controlling livestock disease and improving public health.
Academic achievement of adolescents born with extremely low birth weight
Authors: Litt Jonathan S , Gerry Taylor H , Margevicius Seunghee , Schluchter Mark , Andreias Laura , Hack Maureen
Published: July 2012

Aim:  To assess academic achievement, rates of learning disabilities (LD) and special education in extremely low birth weight (ELBW <1 kg) adolescents relative to normal birth weight (NBW) controls and to identify cognitive weaknesses.

Methods:  Compared 181 ELBW adolescents born from 1992 to 1995 (mean age 14.8 years, mean BW 809 g, mean GA 26.4 weeks) and 115 NBW term controls. Measures included tests of IQ, reading and math achievement and executive function. Analyses included ANCOVA and logistic and linear regression. Covariates were sex, race and socioeconomic status.

Results:  Extremely low birth weight adolescents had significantly lower scores on tests of IQ (87.1 vs. 96.4), achievement (88.6 vs. 95.5 reading; 81.3 vs. 93.2 math) and executive function than the NBW group (all p‐values <0.001). ELBW also had higher rates of math LD, 51(50%) vs. 26 (28%), OR (95% CI) = 3.10 (1.65, 5.84), p < 0.001, and need for special education, 88 (49%) vs. 11(10%), OR (95% CI) = 11.78 (5.67, 24.47), p < 0.001. Measures of executive function were related to math independent of IQ.

Conclusions:  Extremely low birth weight adolescents born in the 1990s have poorer achievement and higher rates of math LD than NBW peers. The findings suggest a need for more intensive interventions addressing the specific cognitive vulnerabilities in this population.
Biodegradation Property of Beta‐Tricalcium Phosphate‐Collagen Composite in Accordance with Bone Formation: A Comparative Study with Bio‐Oss Collagen® in a Rat Critical‐Size Defect Model
Authors: Kato Eiji , Lemler Jeffery , Sakurai Kaoru , Yamada Masahiro
Published: July 2012

Purpose: The objective of this study was to compare osteoconductivity and biodegradation properties of an in‐house fabricated beta‐tricalcium phosphate (b‐TCP)‐collagen composite with those of Bio‐Oss Collagen® (Osteohealth, Shirley, NY, USA) using a rat calvarial critical‐size defect model.

Materials and Methods: b‐TCP–collagen composite material was fabricated by mixing b‐TCP granules having a particle size of 0.15 to 0.8 mm and 75% porosity, with bovine dermis‐derived soluble collagen sponge. The dry weight ratio of b‐TCP granules‐to‐collagen ratios was 4:1. Bio‐Oss Collagen or the b‐TCP–collagen composite was used to fill a 5.0 mm–diameter calvarial defect in rats. The defects were evaluated by histological and histomorphological analyses of decalcified histological sections with hematoxylin and eosin staining 6 and 10 weeks, respectively, after surgery.

Results: The defect implanted with the b‐TCP composite contained immature bone structures with dense connective tissue in contrast to the abundant fibrous tissue, but no trabecular structure was observed within the defect implanted with Bio‐Oss Collagen at 6 weeks postoperatively. Eventually, the defect filled with the b‐TCP composite was covered with dense, continuous, mature bone tissue with complete replacement of the graft material. However, in defects filled with Bio‐Oss Collagen, only dense connective tissue, containing limited amounts of immature trabecular bone and abundant remnant Bio‐Oss particles, was observed. Histomorphological analysis revealed that the b‐TCP composite caused greater tissue augmentation with a larger volume of bone tissue observed in the defect and greater bioabsorption of remnant material than Bio‐Oss Collagen.

Conclusion: These results indicated that the b‐TCP composite has greater osteoconductivity and better biodegradation properties than Bio‐Oss Collagen; these properties of the b‐TCP–collagen composite complimented bone formation and remodeling.
Interest Groups and Presidential Approval
Authors: COHEN JEFFREY E.
Published: July 2012

This article investigates the impact of interest group membership on presidential approval. Data come from the 2006 Cooperative Congressional Election Study, which asked respondents about membership in 11 interest groups. Distinguishing between easy and hard issues, I argue that interest groups will tighten the relationship between issue position and approval for hard issues because of the information that groups provide it members. Analysis looks at interest group effects on five issues: abortion and the Iraq War, both deemed easy; the environment and Social Security Reform, which are harder issues; and stem cell research, which is harder for some. As hypothesized, membership in abortion or veterans groups has no impact on members' approval either directly or through the relevant issues. But for members of environmental and senior groups, the relevant issues are found to have statistically significant impact on approval. And membership in abortion rights groups affects stem cell research. The conclusions put the findings into perspective and discuss directions for future research.
Increased Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Levels in a Mouse Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ellati Riyad T. , Dokun Ayotunde O. , Kavoussi Parviz K. , Steers William D. , Annex Brian H. , Lysiak Jeffrey J.
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major risk factor for developing erectile dysfunction (ED) and men with DM are often less responsive to phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors than ED due to other causes.

Aims

The aim of this study was to explore potential mechanisms whereby PDE5 inhibitors may have reduced efficacy in type 2 DM.

Methods

At 4 weeks of age, mice were either fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 22–36 weeks or fed regular chow (control). An additional group of mice in the same genetic background had a genetic form of type 1 DM.

Main Outcome Measures

Glucose tolerance testing, intracorporal pressures (ICPs), oxidative stress (OS), apoptotic cell death (active caspase-3 and apostain), PDE5, p53, and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels, and histological examination of inflow arteries were performed in mice fed a HFD and control mice. A group of mice with type 1 DM were studied for PDE5 expression levels.

Results

All mice fed a HFD had impaired glucose tolerance compared with the age-matched mice fed on standard chow diet (control). HFD fed mice had reduced maximum ICPs following in vivo cavernous nerve electrical stimulation and increased apoptotic cell death, OS, and p53 levels in the corporal tissue. Interestingly, PDE5 levels were increased and cGMP levels were decreased. In contrast, mice with type 1 DM did not have increases in PDE5.

Conclusions

Taken together, our results suggest that type 2 DM-induced ED is associated with findings that could lead to reduced cGMP and may account for reduced efficacy of PDE5 inhibitors.
Texture of Bread Crust: Puncturing Settings Effect and Its Relationship to Microstructure
Authors: Altamirano‐Fortoul R. , Hernando I. , Rosell C.M.
Published: July 2012

The effect of the puncturing settings (crosshead speed and punch cross‐section) on the crust mechanical parameters was investigated using breads with two different crust thickness. Results showed that, greater punch cross‐section was associated to compression behavior, which reduced the sensibility to detect changes in the crust structure. Moreover, low crosshead speed (0.5 mm/s) puncture test provided information about the cellular structure of the crust. The relationship between the puncturing parameters and the water activity and moisture content together with the crust microstructure analysis revealed that for obtaining reliable information about the structural ruptures related to crispiness texture, it is necessary to use low crosshead speeds (0.5 mm/s) and low punch cross‐section (3 mm2). Crust microstructure observations indicate that the crust layers and the size and shape of the air cells are responsible of the puncturing behavior.

Practical Applications

Texture of the bread crust is an important parameter used to define the quality of crispy breads and their freshness. Consequently, the extension of crust crispiness is still a priority for the baking industry. Different methods have been proposed for assessing the mechanical properties of the bread crust, although punching is a common feature in all of them. However, there is no information about the incidence of punching settings on the bread crust mechanical parameters. Water activity and moisture content of the crust, besides scanning electron microscopy of the crust section, were used to confirm the reliability of the mechanical parameters. The study allows defining the best conditions to study the crust's mechanical properties providing information about the internal cell structure. Results could be very useful at research level and also for the baking industry when investigating crust freshness.
New Corporate Forms: One Viable Solution to Advancing Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Mac Cormac Susan , Haney Heather
Published: July 2012

There is a clear trend in corporate governance toward increased attention to the environmental and social impacts of business operations. Major consulting firms are advising Fortune 500 companies on how to become more environmentally sustainable, private equity and “impact” investors are measuring environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, and voluntary reporting and shareholder resolutions on issues of environmental sustainability are on the rise. While traditional corporate forms allow companies to embrace social and environmental responsibility with some measure of success, various real and perceived risks encourage directors to focus on short‐term profitability. Even if a company has a strong social mission at inception, founders often have difficulty “anchoring their mission” over time. And the lack of required disclosure of social and environmental performance makes it more difficult for investors to evaluate and compare companies. Many believe that the institutionalized mispricing of natural resources and the continued failure to price externalities, combined with the progressive nature of climate change, require the transformation of both business and law.

This article discusses social and environmental sustainability within the traditional corporate form and then explores three emerging alternatives that are now being used by businesses in California: limited liability corporations (LLCs); benefit corporations (B corps); and flexible purpose corporations (FPCs). Of these three alternatives, FPCs—a corporate form that requires shareholders to agree on one or more social missions with management and the board—may be best suited to meet the needs of the many small private firms (as well as some large public companies) that, whether for purely economic or altruistic reasons, plan to integrate ESG into their operations.
Private Landowners Cooperate to Sustain Wildlife Habitat: The Case of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve*
Authors: Schmidtz David , Willott Elizabeth
Published: July 2012

Now over 60 years old, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a cooperative “for‐profit” arrangement among a group of private landowners in South Africa that has succeeded in protecting wildlife and wildlife habitat while substantially increasing the economic value of the landowners' property. On a per acre basis, the Sabi Sand's wildlife populations are at least as large and healthy as those of the adjoining Kruger National Park.

The lands that make up the reserve were once several fenced‐off properties that were managed unsuccessfully as cattle ranches in the early 20th century. The founding members concluded they would be better off using their land as a game reserve. To do that, they had to pool their landholdings to accommodate populations of large animals such as elephant, rhino, and buffalo that required more room than any one property could provide.

The authors describe how the rules governing Sabi Sand evolved in ways similar to those in other successful cases of common resource management that have been studied by, among others, the late Nobel laureate Elinor Ostrom. The asset is managed by a local community where those with a right to its use are clearly identified and others are clearly excluded. The reserve's private property owners use a mix of collective and individual decision‐making procedures, have procedures for resolving conflict, and have ways to punish those who would abuse the land or wildlife.
Association between the Amount of Right-to-Left Shunt and Infarct Patterns in Patients with Cryptogenic Embolic Stroke: A Transcranial Doppler Study
Authors: Kim Ji Won , Kim Suk Jae , Yoon Cindy W , Park Chang-Hyun , Kang Kun Woo , Kim Soo Kyoung , Kim Yun-Hee , Bang Oh Young
Published: July 2012

Background

Paradoxical embolism has been documented as a mechanism of cryptogenic embolic stroke. We investigated the frequency of right-to-left shunt in patients with cryptogenic embolic stroke and evaluated the factors associated with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) lesion pattern.

Methods

We analyzed data on 157 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke because of presumed cryptogenic embolism. Agitated saline transcranial Doppler study was conducted in all patients to detect right-to-left shunt. We evaluated the association of the amount (microemboli ≥20 vs. ≥20) and activity (spontaneous vs. after Valsalva maneuver only) of right-to-left shunt with diffusion-weighted imaging lesion patterns.

Results

Right-to-left shunt was observed in 96 (61·1%) patients. The multiplicity and distribution of diffusion-weighted imaging lesions did not differ depending on the amount and activity of right-to-left shunt. However, the size of diffusion-weighted imaging lesions differed depending on the amount of right-to-left shunt ( P = 0·019). Right-to-left shunt was more frequently observed in patients with small (<1 cm) infarcts than in those with a large infarct (66·7% vs. 45·9%), and most patients with a larger amount of right-to-left shunt were found to have small infarcts on diffusion-weighted imaging (80%). The clinical characteristics, including Framingham stroke risk strategy, did not differ between the groups.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that the amount of right-to-left shunt determines the Diffusion-weighted imaging lesion patterns and suggest that mechanisms of stroke other than paradoxical mechanism may play an important role in patients with large cryptogenic embolic stroke.
Treatment of landfill leachate using Fenton process and coagulation/flocculation
Authors: Boumechhour Fatima , Rabah Kerbachi , Lamine Chikbouni , Said Benmenni Med
Published: July 2012

Coagulation/flocculation process, Fenton oxidation and combinations between them were studied, aiming to provide an efficient method for the treatment of partially stabilized leachates. Leachates were collected from a municipal landfill site, samples containing around 3800 mg/L COD, BOD5/COD ratio about 0.11 and pH around 8. The sequence of stages implemented was: (a) coagulation/flocculation; (b) Fenton oxidation; (c) coagulation/flocculation followed by Fenton oxidation which resulted in a best COD removal (63.62%) and (d) Fenton oxidation followed by coagulation/flocculation.
The ethics of research on deep brain stimulation for depression: decisional capacity and therapeutic misconception
Authors: Fisher Carl Erik , Dunn Laura B. , Christopher Paul P. , Holtzheimer Paul E. , Leykin Yan , Mayberg Helen S. , Lisanby Sarah H. , Appelbaum Paul S.
Published: July 2012

Research on deep brain stimulation (DBS) for treatment‐resistant depression appears promising, but concerns have been raised about the decisional capacity of severely depressed patients and their potential misconceptions about the research. We assessed 31 DBS research participants with the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Clinical Research (MacCAT‐CR), a well‐validated capacity measure, and with a scale to measure therapeutic misconception, which occurs when subjects do not recognize key differences between treatment and clinical research. Correlations with baseline depressive symptoms were explored. Subjects’ performance on the MacCAT‐CR was excellent, but therapeutic misconception was still apparent. A trend toward significance was found in the correlation between baseline depression ratings and total therapeutic misconception score. Responses to open‐ended prompts revealed both reassuring and concerning statements related to expectations of risk, benefit, and individualization. Even severely depressed patients did not manifest impairments in their capacity to consent to DBS research. Therapeutic misconception, however, remained prevalent.
A fast, highly sensitive double‐nested PCR‐based method to screen fish immunobiomes
Authors: BOUTIN SÉBASTIEN , SEVELLEC MAELLE , PAVEY SCOTT A. , BERNATCHEZ LOUIS , DEROME NICOLAS
Published: July 2012

Efficient methods for constructing 16S tag amplicon libraries for pyrosequencing are needed for the rapid and thorough screening of infectious bacterial diversity from host tissue samples. Here we have developed a double‐nested PCR methodology that generates 16S tag amplicon libraries from very small amounts of bacteria/host samples. This methodology was tested for 133 kidney samples from the lake whitefish Coregonus clupeaformis (Salmonidae) sampled in five different lake populations. The double‐nested PCR efficiency was compared with two other PCR strategies: single primer pair amplification and simple nested PCR. The double‐nested PCR was the only amplification strategy to provide highly specific amplification of bacterial DNA. The resulting 16S amplicon libraries were synthesized and pyrosequenced using 454 FLX technology to analyse the variation of pathogenic bacteria abundance. The proportion of the community sequenced was very high (Good’s coverage estimator; mean = 95.4%). Furthermore, there were no significant differences of sequence coverage among samples. Finally, the occurrence of chimeric amplicons was very low. Therefore, the double‐nested PCR approach provides a rapid, informative and cost‐effective method for screening fish immunobiomes and most likely applicable to other low‐density microbiomes as well.
Music Perception and Cognition: A Review of Recent Cross‐Cultural Research
Authors: Stevens Catherine J.
Published: July 2012

Experimental investigations of cross‐cultural music perception and cognition reported during the past decade are described. As globalization and Western music homogenize the world musical environment, it is imperative that diverse music and musical contexts are documented. Processes of music perception include grouping and segmentation, statistical learning and sensitivity to tonal and temporal hierarchies, and the development of tonal and temporal expectations. The interplay of auditory, visual, and motor modalities is discussed in light of synchronization and the way music moves via emotional response. Further research is needed to test deep‐rooted psychological assumptions about music cognition with diverse materials and groups in dynamic contexts. Although empirical musicology provides keystones to unlock musical structures and organization, the psychological reality of those theorized structures for listeners and performers, and the broader implications for theories of music perception and cognition, awaits investigation.
A multi‐criteria based review of models that predict environmental impacts of land use‐change for perennial energy crops on water, carbon and nitrogen cycling
Authors: Thomas Amy R. C. , Bond Alan J. , Hiscock Kevin M.
Published: July 2012

Reduction in energy sector greenhouse gas GHG emissions is a key aim of European Commission plans to expand cultivation of bioenergy crops. Since agriculture makes up 10–12% of anthropogenic GHG emissions, impacts of land‐use change must be considered, which requires detailed understanding of specific changes to agroecosystems. The greenhouse gas (GHG) balance of perennials may differ significantly from the previous ecosystem. Net change in GHG emissions with land‐use change for bioenergy may exceed avoided fossil fuel emissions, meaning that actual GHG mitigation benefits are variable. Carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling are complex interlinked systems, and a change in land management may affect both differently at different sites, depending on other variables. Change in evapotranspiration with land‐use change may also have significant environmental or water resource impacts at some locations. This article derives a multi‐criteria based decision analysis approach to objectively identify the most appropriate assessment method of the environmental impacts of land‐use change for perennial energy crops. Based on a literature review and conceptual model in support of this approach, the potential impacts of land‐use change for perennial energy crops on GHG emissions and evapotranspiration were identified, as well as likely controlling variables. These findings were used to structure the decision problem and to outline model requirements. A process‐based model representing the complete agroecosystem was identified as the best predictive tool, where adequate data are available. Nineteen models were assessed according to suitability criteria, to identify current model capability, based on the conceptual model, and explicit representation of processes at appropriate resolution. FASSET, ECOSSE, ANIMO, DNDC, DayCent, Expert‐N, Ecosys, WNMM and CERES‐NOE were identified as appropriate models, with factors such as crop, location and data availability dictating the final decision for a given project. A database to inform such decisions is included.
Detection of Vibrio cholerae in environmental waters including drinking water reservoirs of Azerbaijan
Authors: Rashid Ahmadov , Haley Bradd J. , Rajabov Mukhtar , Ahmadova Sevinj , Gurbanov Shair , Colwell Rita R. , Huq Anwar
Published: July 2012

Cholera, a globally prevalent gastrointestinal disease, remains a persistent problem in many countries including the former Soviet republics of the Caucasus region where sporadic outbreaks occurred recently. Historically, this region has experienced cholera during every pandemic since 1816; however, no known comprehensive evaluation of the presence of Vibrio cholerae in surface waters using molecular methods has been done. Here we present the first report of the presence of V. cholerae in surface waters of Azerbaijan and its seasonality, using a combination of bacteriological and molecular methods. Findings from the present study indicate a peak in the presence of V. cholerae in warmer summer months relative to colder winter months. In the Caspian Sea, water temperature when optimal for growth of V. cholerae was significantly associated with detection of V. cholerae. Vibrio cholerae was simultaneously detected at freshwater sites including two water reservoirs. Most importantly, detection of V. cholerae in these water reservoirs, the source of municipal drinking water, poses a potential health risk to the population due to the limited and insufficient treatment of water in Azerbaijan. Routine monitoring of environmental waters used for recreational purposes, and especially drinking water reservoirs, is highly recommended as a measure for public health safety.
Uterine B cell lymphoma in a mare
Authors: Claes A. , Ball B. A. , Liu I. K. M. , Vaughan B. , Highland M. A. , Brown J. A.
Published: July 2012

In this report, we describe the diagnostic findings and outcome of a uterine B cell lymphoma in a mare. A well circumscribed uterine mass with significant peripheral vascularisation was identified by transrectal ultrasonography during the reproductive examination of an 8‐year‐old Thoroughbred mare. Subsequent hysteroscopy revealed that the uterine mass was located intramurally and contained a protruding polyp‐like structure. A diagnosis of uterine B cell lymphoma was established by histopathological examination of a hysteroscopically‐obtained tissue sample. Additional diagnostics demonstrated that the uterus was a site of metastasis. Due to her deteriorating condition, extensiveness of the tumour and poor prognosis, the owner decided that the mare should be subjected to euthanasia.
A sulfate polysaccharide/TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) complex for the long-term delivery of TRAIL in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres
Authors: Kim Hyemin , Jeong Dooyong , Kang Hee Eun , Lee Kang Choon , Na Kun
Published: July 2012

Objectives

The aim was to develop a long-term delivery system for Apo2 ligand/tumour necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) without chemical modification (such as pegylation).

Methods

A nanocomplex system between the positively charged TRAIL and the negatively charged chondroitin sulfate (CS) (CS/TRAIL) was designed and applied in poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microspheres (MSs).

Key findings

A nanocomplex of approximately 200 nm was easily formed in a weight ratio of 2 TRAIL to CS (TC2) at pH 5.0. The cytotoxicity of CS/TRAIL against HeLa cells was similar to that of native TRAIL. The complex also had higher loading efficiency (above 95%) in PLGA MSs prepared by the multi-emulsion method than that of native TRAIL. The release behaviour of TRAIL from the PLGA MSs was monitored. Although the release of TRAIL from native TRAIL-loaded PLGA MSs (TMS0) was almost complete after 3 days, TC2-loaded PLGA MSs (TMS2) showed sustained TRAIL release without an initial burst for 10 days. The released TRAIL from TMS2 led to cytotoxicity accompanied by massive apoptosis of cancer cells. TMS2 significantly inhibited tumour growth in an in-vivo xenograft model in mice, without any loss of body weight after treatment.

Conclusions

From the results, we concluded that TC-loaded PLGA MSs have the potential for long-term delivery of TRAIL without side effects.
Measurement of Flame Frequency Response Functions Under Exhaust Gas Recirculation Conditions
Authors: Ranalli Joseph , Ferguson Don
Published: July 2012

Exhaust gas recirculation has been proposed as a potential strategy for reducing the cost and efficiency penalty associated with postcombustion carbon capture. However, this approach may cause as-yet unresolved effects on the combustion process, including additional potential for the occurrence of thermoacoustic instabilities. Flame dynamics, characterized by the flame transfer function, were measured in traditional swirl stabilized and low-swirl injector combustor configurations, subject to exhaust gas circulation simulated by N2 and CO2 dilution. The flame transfer functions exhibited behavior consistent with a low-pass filter and showed phase dominated by delay. Flame transfer function frequencies were nondimensionalized using Strouhal number to highlight the convective nature of this delay. Dilution was observed to influence the dynamics primarily through its role in changing the size of the flame, indicating that it plays a similar role in determining the dynamics as changes in the equivalence ratio. Notchlike features in the flame transfer function were shown to be related to interference behaviors associated with the convective nature of the flame response. Some similarities between the two stabilization configurations proved limiting and generalization of the physical behaviors will require additional investigation.
Computing Axes of Rotation for Setup Planning Using Visibility of Polyhedral Computer-Aided Design Models
Authors: Li Ye , Frank Matthew C.
Published: July 2012

This paper presents a method for determining feasible axes of rotation for setup planning, based on the visibility of a polyhedral model. The intent of this work was to develop a feature-free approach to setup planning, with the specific focus on multi-axis machine setups. Visibility mapping can provide a quantitative evaluation of a surface, a feature or an entire part model; however, the next step is to use this information for process planning. In this paper, we present an approach of using a visibility map to evaluate axes of rotation that could be used in an indexer-type setup on a machine tool. Instead of using expensive and complicated multi-axis machining, it may be feasible to machine using multiple three-axis toolpaths if a single axis of rotation can be used to rotate the part through the minimum set of orientations. An algorithm is presented that is capable of processing visibility information from a polyhedral model; hence, the method is generic and does not require feature detection. As such, the work is applicable to a variety of applications; in particular for subtractive rapid prototyping where complex geometry may not contain recognizable features.
An Integrated Approach for the Multidisciplinary Design of Optimum Rotorcraft Operations
Authors: Goulos Ioannis , Pachidis Vassilios , d’Ippolito Roberto , Stevens Jos , Smith Chrissy
Published: July 2012

This work focuses on the development and application of a generic methodology targeting the design of optimum rotorcraft operations in terms of fuel burn, gaseous emissions, and ground noise impact. An integrated tool capable of estimating the performance and emitted noise of any defined rotorcraft configuration within any designated mission has been deployed. A comprehensive and cost-effective optimization strategy has been structured. The methodology has been applied to two generic, baseline missions representative of current rotorcraft operations. Optimally designed operations for fuel burn, gaseous emissions, and ground noise impact have been obtained. A comparative evaluation has been waged between the acquired optimum designs. The respective trade-off arising from the incorporation of flight paths optimized for different objectives has been quantified. Pareto front derived models for fuel burn and emitted noise have been structured for each mission. The Pareto models have been subsequently deployed for the design of operations optimized in a multidisciplinary manner. The results have shown that the proposed methodology is promising with regards to achieving simultaneous reduction in fuel burn, gaseous emissions, and ground noise impact for any defined mission. The obtainable reductions are found to be dependent on the designated mission. Finally, the potential to design optimum operations in a multidisciplinary fashion using only a single design criterion is demonstrated.
Experimental Study on Vibration-Assisted Grinding
Authors: Li Kuan-Ming , Hu Yang-Ming , Yang Zhong-Yi , Chen Ming-Yuan
Published: July 2012

This paper presents experimental studies of vibration-assisted grinding with small-amplitude vibration (in the order of 1 μm) in terms of ground surface finish and tool life. The objectives are to obtain finer surface finishes on molds and longer tool life. The investigation shows that vibration-assisted grinding can improve surface finishes when compared with conventional grinding. Two different vibration frequencies are conducted in the experiments. Results show that surface finish and tool life are influenced by different process parameters. In vibration-assisted grinding, the best surface finish is obtained by using higher frequency of 11.4 kHz and lower feed rates. In this study, vibration-assisted grinding can extend tool life more than twice as that in conventional grinding. It is also shown that tool life in vibration-assisted grinding can be significantly improved by using minimum quantity lubrication (MQL).