bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The VVDS: a journey through space and time
Authors: Garilli B. ,   the VVDS Group
Published: April 2007

The VVDS Surveys aim at understanding the combined evolution of galaxies and large scale structure and have by now collected more than 35000 redshifts in four sky areas covering a total of 4.3 square degrees. They are the only surveys of this kind using a purely apparent magnitude selection, thus avoiding the intrinsic biases present in most of the high redshift color based surveys.
Dissecting a site of massive star formation: IRAS 23033+5951
Authors: Reid Michael A. , Matthews Brenda C.
Published: April 2007

We present new BIMA observations of the massive star-forming region IRAS 23033+5951 in Cepheus. 3 mm continuum observations reveal that the source decomposes into at least three dusty clumps, each of which has sufficient mass to form a massive star. The most massive clump has a mass of about 225 M and appears to house the massive protostar which drives the prominent CO outflow seen in the region. Our H13CN, 1-0, N2H+ 1-0, and H13CO+ 1-0 maps show that the three continuum sources are all embedded in an elongated structure whose long axis is perpendicular to the outflow. Both H13CO+ and H13CN peak at the geometric center of this structure, which lies between the two prominent continuum peaks. All three lines – H13CN, H13CO+, and N2H+ –show the same velocity gradient along the long axis of their integrated intensity maps. Although the approximately 90,000 AU length of the elongated structure prohibits a disk interpretation, the fact that the dynamical and gas masses of the structure differ by only a factor of a few suggests that the structure may be partially rotationally supported. We also detect a signature of infall toward the center of the structure, seen as an asymmetrically blue HCO+ line where its optically thin isotope, H13CO+, is symmetric and single-peaked.
The mass distribution of unstable cores in turbulent magnetized clouds
Authors: Padoan Paolo , Nordlund Åke , Kritsuk Alexei G. , Norman Michael L. , Li Pak Shing
Published: April 2007

The predictions of the Padoan and Nordlund IMF model are tested using the largest simulations of supersonic hydrodynamic (HD) and magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) turbulence to date (~10003computational zones). The striking difference between the HD and MHD regimes, predicted by the model, is recovered.
Simulations of ionisation triggering
Authors: Clarke C. J. , Dale J. E.
Published: April 2007

We review recent pilot simulations that incorporate feedback from ionising radiation in SPH calculations of star forming clouds. In the case that the ionising radiation source is located within the star forming cloud, the inhomogeneity of the cloud significantly modifies the way that feedback operates compared with spherically symmetric cloud models. Inflow/outflow behaviour develops, combining accretion down dense filaments and thermally driven outflows that can remove many times the binding energy of the parent cloud. If the ionising source is located external to the cloud, we find evidence for triggered star formation but conclude that it is hard to find unambiguous observational signatures that would distinguish “triggered” stars from those created spontaneously.
New nearby young star cluster candidates within 200 pc
Authors: Mamajek Eric E.
Published: April 2007

I briefly describe two new young star cluster candidates found within 200 pc of the Sun, associated with the 4th-magnitude stars μ Oph and 32 Ori. The μ Oph group (d ≃ 170pc) has a space motion and age (~120± 25 Myr) suspiciously similar to the Pleiades, but lies in the opposite side of the sky behind ~0.9 mag of visual extinction in Ophiuchus. The 32 Ori group is a nearby (d ≃ 90 pc) loose aggregate of ~25-Myr-old post-T Tauri stars co-moving with the massive binary 32 Ori (B5V+B7V) in northern Orion. The 32 Ori group accounts for part of the population of “isolated” Li-rich RASS pre-MS stars in northern Orion.
Star formation in the Eagle Nebula and NGC 6611
Authors: Oliveira J. M. , Jeffries R. D. , van Loon J. Th
Published: April 2007

We present IZJHKL′ photometry of the core of the cluster NGC 6611 in the Eagle Nebula. This photometry is used to constrain the Initial Mass Function (IMF) and the circumstellar disk frequency of the young stellar objects. Optical spectroscopy of 258 objects is used to confirm membership and constrain contamination as well as individual reddening estimates. Our overall aim is to assess the influence of the ionizing radiation from the massive stars on the formation and evolution of young low-mass stars and their disks. The disk frequency determined from the JHKL′ colour-colour diagram suggests that the ionizing radiation from the massive stars has little effect on disk evolution (Oliveira et al. 2005). The cluster IMF seems indistinguishable from those of quieter environments; however towards lower masses the tell-tale signs of an environmental influence are expected to become more noticeable, a question we are currently addressing with our recently acquired ultra-deep (ACS and NICMOS) HST images.
Massive star formation in the outer Galaxy: S284
Authors: Puga E. , Neiner C. , Hony S. , Lenorzer A. , Hubert A.-M. , Waters L. B. F. M.
Published: April 2007

S284 is a diffuse HII region located in the anti-centre of the galactic disk (l=212, b=−1.3), at a distance of 5.5 kpc and it is relatively isolated. S284 harbours a cluster of stars in its centre known as Dolidze 25 (also known as C 0642+0.03). A spectroscopic study of the cluster sources (Lennon et al. 1990, A&A, 240, 349) revealed: a) the spectral types of these central sources and b) the low metallicity of the cluster (a factor six lower than the solar metallicity). The age of the cluster (6 Myr) has been determined through isochrone fitting of precision photometry (Turbide & Moffat, 1993, AJ, 105, 1831).

We have conducted Spitzer-IRAC observations of 0.9x1.2 degrees around S284 in the four IRAC bands (3.6, 4.5, 5.8 and 8.0 μm). These data provide us with an unprecedented perspective of the dust component toward S284. We also present complementary observations with the WFC-INT (Roque de los Muchachos) in the Hα filter. The inspection of the images reveals the existence of: i) Rings of dust that constraint the ionised gas, ii) Elephant trunks stretching toward the centre of the main HII region, namely the cluster Dolidze 25 and iii) various spatial scales (4 main shells and 22 knots).

We have calculated the dynamical age of the central HII region (S284) in a very simple pressure-driven scenario, using the strong-shock approximation. The resultant age of the main shell is 8 Myr, in good agreement with the estimated age of the central cluster (Dolidze 25). The presence of another two smaller ionised bubbles (with diameters of 3′ and 5′, respectively) located at the rim of this HII region suggests a later generation of high-mass star-forming regions. The color-color diagram of the IRAC photometry betrays the existence of several Class I objects, most of which are located at the rim of the most prominent shell.

Multi-wavelength photometry has been gathered to construct the Spectral Energy Distribution of the 22 blobs detected toward S284. The SEDs reveal luminosities corresponding to low- and intermediate-mass stars.

We conclude that the remarkable symmetry of the main HII bubble, the spectra of masses harboured by the different blobs around it, and most importantly, the uniform presence of elephant trunks that stretch toward the centre can be best explained by the growth of dynamical instabilities in a collected layer (Garcia-Segura & Franco, 1996, ApJ, 469, 171). In the context of this hypothesis, the low metallicity of the environment would significantly determine the length and stability over time of the elephant trunks.
CONDOR observations of high mass star formation in Orion
Authors: Volgenau N. H. , Wiedner M. C. , Wieching G. , Emprechtinger M. , Bielau F. , Graf U. U. , Honingh C. E. , Jacobs K. , Vowinkel B. , Güsten R. , Rabanus D. , Stutzki J. , Wyrowski F.
Published: April 2007

CONDOR, the CO, N+, Deuterium Observations Receiver, is designed to make velocity-resolved observations of the CO, [NII], and p-H2D+ lines in the 1.4 THz (200-240μm) atmospheric windows. CONDOR's first light observations were made with the APEX telescope in November 2005. The CONDOR beam on APEX (at ν = 1.5 THz) was expected to consist of a 4.3″ main beam and a 73″ error beam; this beam structure was verified from scans of Mars. The pointing accuracy, also determined from Mars scans, was better than 7″. The average atmospheric transmission during our Orion observations (elev~57°) was 19 ± 4% along the line-of-sight. A forward efficiency of Feff = 0.8 was determined from sky dips, and observations of the Moon and Mars were used to couple the CONDOR beam to sources of different sizes (ηc = 0.40 and ~0.10, respectively). For more information, see Wiedner et al. 2006.
The Tell-Tale Hand
Authors: Voracek Martin , Pavlovic Stefanie
Published: April 2007

Abstract. The second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D), an inconspicuous, but sexually differentiated anatomical trait (men present lower 2D:4D than women), has received intense research interest recently. Fairly strong evidence points to 2D:4D as a biomarker for the organizational (permanent) effects of prenatal testosterone on the brain and behavior. 2D:4D has been shown to be a correlate of a wealth of sex-dependent, hormonally influenced traits and phenotypes, which reach into the domains of behavior, fertility, health, physique, sexuality, and sports and also deeply into differential psychology (ability, cognition, and personality). This study investigated whether individual differences in 2D:4D are related to individual differences in attractiveness, sex typicality, and other attributes ascribed to palm images by raters. For both sexes, more sex-atypical trait expressions (i.e., higher 2D:4D in male, but lower 2D:4D in female palm specimens) were related to higher aggregate ratings of attractiveness, healthiness, sexiness, imagined handshake pleasantness, and imagined person dominance, albeit only the last association achieved formal statistical significance with two-tailed testing. These findings suggest that 2D:4D might be a correlate of perceived dominance and possibly also of other attributes. Digit ratio associations with sex-typicality ratings (sex-of-hand judgments and perceived palm masculinity and femininity) were inconsistent and mostly of smaller size. Finger lengths (2D and 4D) were generally more strongly and consistently related to palm attributes than 2D:4D was. Implications of the findings, study limitations, and directions for future research are considered.
Statistics of fracture strength and fluid‐induced microseismicity
Authors: Rothert Elmar , Shapiro Serge A.
Published: April 2007

In this paper we develop an approach for estimating the strength of rocks by analyzing fluid‐induced microseismicity. The strength corresponds to the value of critical pressure in the pore space that must be exceeded in order to activate preexisting fractures, i.e., to trigger earthquakes. We assume that during hydraulic injection experiments in boreholes, microseismicity is mainly triggered by a diffusive process of pore pressure perturbation. An analytical solution can be applied to find time‐dependent pore pressure perturbations in rocks caused by fluid injections. Characteristics of the spatiotemporal evolution of microseismic clouds can be then used to estimate minimum and maximum pressures necessary to trigger earthquakes. Moreover, we present a method for reconstruction of the full spectrum of rock strength; that is, we show how to estimate the probability density function of the critical pressure. We verify the approach using numerical data and apply it to real data of injection‐induced microseismicity from two Hot Dry Rock tests in crystalline rocks and one hydraulic fracturing experiment in a sedimentary rock. The results show that such an analysis of microseismicity is able to provide us with a completely new feature of natural fractured rocks in situ, namely, the statistics of their strength. We find that very low critical pressures, in the range 0.001–1 MPa, characterize the strength of preexisting cracks for all data sets analyzed. The range of critical pressures is broadly distributed within 3 to 4 orders of magnitude. However, the probability density functions of critical pressure change very quickly from the zero level to significant values and from significant values to the zero level at the lower and upper limits of their nonvanishing value ranges, respectively. The lower bound of critical pressure is possibly defined by the magnitude of tidal‐induced stresses, permanently occurring and relaxing in the Earth.
Seismically induced changes of the fluid signature detected by a multi‐isotope approach (He, CO2, CH4, N2) at the Wettinquelle, Bad Brambach (central Europe)
Authors: Bräuer Karin , Kämpf Horst , Koch Ulrich , Niedermann Samuel , Strauch Gerhard
Published: April 2007

We present a study considering the systematics of gas and isotope compositions (3He/4He, δ13CCO2, δ13CCH4, δ15N) of a permanent magmatic CO2 flux in the hydrothermal system of the spring “Wettinquelle” in Bad Brambach and their relation to the seismic activity beneath the western Eger rift. The gas and isotope compositions were monitored for more than 3 years. The time series includes periods before, during, and after a 4‐month‐long seismically active period from the end of August to the end of December 2000. Shifts due to admixture of crustal components were found for all monitored isotope ratios during and after the seismically active period. In case of helium and nitrogen, isotopic anomalies occurred already about 6 weeks before the beginning of the seismically active period, contemporaneous with a water level anomaly of the well VL4 near the Wettinquelle. On the one hand, preseismic deformations may be responsible for the observed isotope anomalies; on the other hand, coseismic fracturing processes in the surroundings of the hypocenters may play a role. Both effects produce greater permeability and result in the release of crustal fluids. The migration and admixture of these crustal components to the “permanent” upper mantle‐derived fluid flux result in geochemical anomalies that persist for more than 2 years. The results of the detailed isotope monitoring have proven to be an important contribution to understand the geodynamic processes that may presently be going on in the region Vogtland/NW Bohemia.
Adrenaline increases glucose transport via a Rap1‐p38MAPK pathway in rat vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Kanda Y , Watanabe Y
Published: April 2007

Background and purpose:

Adrenaline has been implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. However, little is known regarding the role of adrenaline in glucose transport in VSMC.

Experimental approach:

In this study, we examined the effects of adrenaline on glucose uptake in rat VSMC. We also examined the downstream signaling pathway from the β‐adrenoceptor to glucose uptake, using a pharmacological approach. To investigate the downstream action of adenylate cyclase, we studied the effects of GGTI‐298, an inhibitor of geranylgeranylation of GTPases, including Rap1. To confirm the involvement of Rap1, we silenced Rap1 by siRNA.

Key results:

Adrenaline induced glucose uptake in a dose‐dependent manner. The adrenaline‐induced glucose uptake was inhibited by L‐propranolol, (a selective β‐adrenoceptor antagonist), but not by prazosin (a selective α1‐adrenoceptor antagonist) or UK14304 (a selective α2‐adrenoceptor antagonist), suggesting the involvement of β‐adrenoceptors in glucose transport. Long‐term treatment with cholera toxin, which resulted in sequestration of Gs proteins, prevented the adrenaline‐induced glucose uptake. Forskolin, a direct activator of adenylate cyclase, was found to mimic the effects of adrenaline. Adrenaline‐induced glucose uptake was inhibited by GGTI‐298, not by H89 (a selective inhibitor of PKA). Silencing of Rap1 by siRNA attenuated the adrenaline‐induced glucose uptake. Adrenaline‐induced glucose uptake was inhibited by SB203580 (a selective inhibitor of p38MAPK) and adrenaline‐induced p38MAPK activation was inhibited by GGTI‐298 and siRNA against Rap1.

Conclusions and implications:

These findings suggest that adrenaline‐induced glucose transport is mediated by β‐adrenoceptors, Gs, adenylate cyclase, Rap1, and p38MAPK in vascular smooth muscle cells.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2007) 151, 476–482; doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0707247
Awards as compensation
Authors: Frey Bruno S.
Published: April 2007

Awards are non‐material, extrinsic compensation taking the form of orders, medals, decorations and prizes. They have been widely used in monarchies and republics, private organizations, not‐for‐profit and profit‐oriented firms. Nevertheless, they have so far not received much attention. This paper develops empirically testable hypotheses, analysing the determinants of the supply of awards. The hypotheses refer to the possibility of using awards, the effectiveness of awards, and the capacity to maintain the scarcity value of awards. As the number of awards bestowed cannot (at least so far) be measured adequately, empirical evidence is adduced by way of illustrative examples.
The role of rankings in codifying a business school template: classifications, diffusion and mediated isomorphism in organizational fields
Authors: Wedlin Linda
Published: April 2007

How are business school rankings shaping the international management education field? This paper investigates the role of classification mechanisms such as rankings in forming organizational fields, and asks to what extent rankings are influencing organizations to become more alike. Using a qualitative study of European business schools and their responses to international rankings, I show how the rankings are shaping and codifying an organizational template on which business schools form identities and identification with the field. The rankings codify this template by defining belongingness to a group, specifying measures for competition and comparison, and by promoting role models. Through the template, isomorphic pressures are mediated by the use of both specific and ambiguous criteria for performance, and in the way the template guides and channels imitation processes. This way, the template secures similarity and recognition of ‘belonging together’ in the field while allowing for considerable variation in organizational practices and identities.
The emergence of simple languages in an experimental coordination game
Authors: Selten Reinhard , Warglien Massimo
Published: April 2007

We investigate in a series of laboratory experiments how costs and benefits of linguistic communication affect the emergence of simple languages in a coordination task when no common language is available in the beginning. The experiment involved pairwise computerized communication between 152 subjects involved in at least 60 rounds. The subjects had to develop a common code referring to items in varying lists of geometrical figures distinguished by up to three features. A code had to be made of a limited repertoire of letters. Using letters had a cost. We are interested in the question of whether a common code is developed, and what enhances its emergence. Furthermore, we explore the emergence of compositional, protogrammatical structure in such codes. We compare environments that differ in terms of available linguistic resources (number of letters available) and in terms of stability of the task environment (variability in the set of figures). Our experiments show that a too small repertoire of letters causes coordination failures. Cost efficiency and role asymmetry are important factors enhancing communicative success. In stable environments, grammars do not seem to matter much, and instead efficient arbitrary codes often do better. However, in an environment with novelty, compositional grammars offer considerable coordination advantages and therefore are more likely to arise.
Mitochondrial permeabilization relies on BH3 ligands engaging multiple prosurvival Bcl-2 relatives, not Bak
Authors: Uren Rachel T. , Dewson Grant , Chen Lin , Coyne Stephanie C. , Huang David C.S. , Adams Jerry M. , Kluck Ruth M.
Published: April 2007

The Bcl-2 family regulates apoptosis by controlling mitochondrial integrity. To clarify whether its prosurvival members function by sequestering their Bcl-2 homology 3 (BH3)–only ligands or their multidomain relatives Bak and Bax, we analyzed whether four prosurvival proteins differing in their ability to bind specific BH3 peptides or Bak could protect isolated mitochondria. Most BH3 peptides could induce temperature-dependent cytochrome c release, but permeabilization was prevented by Bcl-xl, Bcl-w, Mcl-1, or BHRF1. However, their protection correlated with the ability to bind Bak rather than the added BH3 peptide and could be overcome only by BH3 peptides that bind directly to the appropriate prosurvival member. Mitochondria protected by both Bcl-xl–like and Mcl-1 proteins were disrupted only by BH3 peptides that engage both. BH3-only reagents freed Bak from Bcl-xl and Mcl-1 in mitochondrial and cell lysates. The findings support a model for the control of apoptosis in which certain prosurvival proteins sequester Bak/Bax, and BH3-only proteins must neutralize all protective prosurvival proteins to allow Bak/Bax to induce mitochondrial disruption.
Ubiquitination of the peroxisomal import receptor Pex5p is required for its recycling
Authors: Platta Harald W. , Magraoui Fouzi El , Schlee Daniel , Grunau Silke , Girzalsky Wolfgang , Erdmann Ralf
Published: April 2007

Pex5p, which is the import receptor for peroxisomal matrix proteins harboring a type I signal sequence (PTS1), is mono- and polyubiquitinated in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We identified Pex5p as a molecular target for Pex4p-dependent monoubiquitination and demonstrated that either poly- or monoubiquitination of the receptor is required for the ATP-dependent release of the protein from the peroxisomal membrane to the cytosol as part of the receptor cycle. Therefore, the energy requirement of the peroxisomal import pathway has to be extended by a second ATP-dependent step, namely receptor monoubiquitination.
Early Reversal of Profound Rocuronium-induced Neuromuscular Blockade by Sugammadex in a Randomized Multicenter Study: Efficacy, Safety, and Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Sparr Harald J. , Vermeyen Karel M. , Beaufort Anton M. , Rietbergen Henk , Proost Johannes H. , Saldien Vera , Velik-Salchner Corinna , Wierda J Mark K. H.
Published: April 2007

Background

Sugammadex reverses the neuromuscular blocking effects of rocuronium by chemical encapsulation. The efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of sugammadex for reversal of profound rocuronium-induced neuromuscular blockade were evaluated.

Methods

Ninety-eight male adult patients were randomly assigned to receive sugammadex (1, 2, 4, 6, or 8 mg/kg) or placebo at 3, 5, or 15 min after 0.6 mg/kg rocuronium. Patients were anesthetized with propofol and fentanyl. The primary endpoint of the study was the time to achieve a recovery of train-of-four ratio to 0.9. Neuromuscular blockade was measured using acceleromyography. Concentrations of rocuronium and sugammadex were determined in venous blood and urine samples. A population pharmacokinetic model using NONMEM (GloboMax LLC, Hanover, MD) was applied.

Results

The mean time to recovery of the train-of-four ratio to 0.9 after dosing at 3, 5, and 15 min decreased from 52.1, 51.7, and 35.6 min, respectively, after administration of placebo to 1.8, 1.5, and 1.4 min, respectively, after 8 mg/kg sugammadex. Sugammadex was safe and well tolerated. However, 20.4% of patients showed signs of inadequate anesthesia after its administration. The median cumulative excretion of rocuronium in the urine over 24 h was 26% in the placebo group and increased to 58-74% after 4-8 mg/kg sugammadex. The mean plasma clearances of sugammadex and rocuronium were 0.084 and 0.26 l/min, respectively.

Conclusions

In male subjects, sugammadex safely reversed profound neuromuscular blockade induced by 0.6 mg/kg rocuronium in a dose-dependent manner. Sugammadex enhanced the renal excretion of rocuronium, and its clearance is approximately one third that of rocuronium.
Response to Recruitment Maneuver Influences Net Alveolar Fluid Clearance in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Constantin Jean-Michel , Cayot-Constantin Sophie , Roszyk Laurence , Futier Emmanuel , Sapin Vincent , Dastugue Bernard , Bazin Jean-Etienne , Rouby Jean-Jacques
Published: April 2007

Background

Alveolar fluid clearance is impaired in the majority of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Experimental studies have shown that a reduction of tidal volume increases alveolar fluid clearance. This study was aimed at assessing the impact of the response to a recruitment maneuver (RM) on net alveolar fluid clearance.

Methods

In 15 patients with ARDS, pulmonary edema fluid and plasma protein concentrations were measured before and after an RM, consisting of a positive end-expiratory pressure maintained 10 cm H2O above the lower inflection point of the pressure-volume curve during 15 min. Cardiorespiratory parameters were measured at baseline (before RM) and 1 and 4 h later. RM-induced lung recruitment was measured using the pressure-volume curve method. Net alveolar fluid clearance was measured by measuring changes in bronchoalveolar protein concentrations before and after RM.

Results

In responders, defined as patients showing an RM-induced increase in arterial oxygen tension of 20% of baseline value or greater, net alveolar fluid clearance (19 +/- 13%/h) and significant alveolar recruitment (113 +/- 101 ml) were observed. In nonresponders, neither net alveolar fluid clearance (-24 +/- 11%/h) nor alveolar recruitment was measured. Responders and nonresponders differed only in terms of lung morphology: Responders had a diffuse loss of aeration, whereas nonresponders had a focal loss of aeration, predominating in the lower lobes.

Conclusion

In the absence of alveolar recruitment and improvement in arterial oxygenation, RM decreases the rate of alveolar fluid clearance, suggesting that lung overinflation may be associated with epithelial dysfunction.
Gene Targeting by Homologous Recombination as a Biotechnological Tool for Rice Functional Genomics
Authors: Terada Rie , Johzuka-Hisatomi Yasuyo , Saitoh Miho , Asao Hisayo , Iida Shigeru
Published: April 2007

The modification of an endogenous gene into a designed sequence by homologous recombination, termed gene targeting (GT), has broad implications for basic and applied research. Rice (Oryza sativa), with a sequenced genome of 389 Mb, is one of the most important crops and a model plant for cereals, and the single-copy gene Waxy on chromosome 6 has been modified with a frequency of 1% per surviving callus by GT using a strong positive-negative selection. Because the strategy is independent of gene-specific selection or screening, it is in principle applicable to any gene. However, a gene in the multigene family or a gene carrying repetitive sequences may preclude efficient homologous recombination-promoted GT due to the occurrence of ectopic recombination. Here, we describe an improved GT procedure whereby we obtained nine independent transformed calli having the alcohol dehydrogenase2 (Adh2) gene modified with a frequency of approximately 2% per surviving callus and subsequently isolated eight fertile transgenic plants without the concomitant occurrence of undesirable ectopic events, even though the rice genome carries four Adh genes, including a newly characterized Adh3 gene, and a copy of highly repetitive retroelements is present adjacent to the Adh2 gene. The results indicate that GT using a strong positive-negative selection can be widely applicable to functional genomics in rice and presumably in other higher plants.
SCABP8/CBL10, a Putative Calcium Sensor, Interacts with the Protein Kinase SOS2 to Protect Arabidopsis Shoots from Salt Stress
Authors: Quan Ruidang , Lin Huixin , Mendoza Imelda , Zhang Yuguo , Cao Wanhong , Yang Yongqing , Shang Mei , Chen Shouyi , Pardo José M. , Guo Yan
Published: April 2007

The SOS (for Salt Overly Sensitive) pathway plays essential roles in conferring salt tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana. Under salt stress, the calcium sensor SOS3 activates the kinase SOS2 that positively regulates SOS1, a plasma membrane sodium/proton antiporter. We show that SOS3 acts primarily in roots under salt stress. By contrast, the SOS3 homolog SOS3-LIKE CALCIUM BINDING PROTEIN8 (SCABP8)/CALCINEURIN B-LIKE10 functions mainly in the shoot response to salt toxicity. While root growth is reduced in sos3 mutants in the presence of NaCl, the salt sensitivity of scabp8 is more prominent in shoot tissues. SCABP8 is further shown to bind calcium, interact with SOS2 both in vitro and in vivo, recruit SOS2 to the plasma membrane, enhance SOS2 activity in a calcium-dependent manner, and activate SOS1 in yeast. In addition, sos3 scabp8 and sos2 scabp8 display a phenotype similar to sos2, which is more sensitive to salt than either sos3 or scabp8 alone. Overexpression of SCABP8 in sos3 partially rescues the sos3 salt-sensitive phenotype. However, overexpression of SOS3 fails to complement scabp8. These results suggest that SCABP8 and SOS3 are only partially redundant in their function, and each plays additional and unique roles in the plant salt stress response.
Fine structure of reproductive glands in two primitive marine pulmonates (Basommatophora: Siphonariidae)
Authors: Pal Purba
Published: April 2007

Within the clade Euthyneura the marine basommatophorans are particularly neglected. More morphological and molecular studies are needed because their phylogenetic relationships with other pulmonates remain unresolved. The present study examines the most conspicuous reproductive gland, the glandular complex in two marine limpets,Siphonaria capensisandS. serrata(Pulmonata: Basommatophora) at both gross and fine structural levels. These two sympatric species with different developmental modes were selected to compare the structure and function of this enormous glandular structure. In bothS. capensisandS. serrata, the glandular complex shows an undifferentiated state composed of an acidophilic albumen gland and a basophilic mucous gland. The glands contain secretory cells and supporting cells (= ciliated cells) that are highly ciliated. When the histochemical properties of the glandular complex were compared with those of siphonariid egg masses (of each species) it could be established that the albumen gland was responsible for the production of perivitelline fluid whereas the mucous gland secreted substances that help in the assembly of mucous layers surrounding the egg capsules. We suggest that the presence of a single glandular complex comprised of two glands is the most primitive organization of reproductive glands in pulmonates. Furthermore, the histology, fine structure and histochemistry of these glands are very similar to those of the reproductive glands of opisthobranchs.
Mood and Recall of Autobiographical Memory: The Effect of Focus of Self‐Knowledge
Authors: Sakaki Michiko
Published: April 2007

ABSTRACT
Mood state facilitates recall of affectively congruent memories (i.e., mood‐congruent recall). Mood state may also promote motivation to alleviate a negative affective state, leading to retrieval of affectively incongruent memories (i.e., mood incongruent recall). The present study demonstrates that the focus of self‐knowledge influences the occurrence of both mood‐congruent recall and mood‐incongruent recall. Three experiments found that mood‐congruent recall occurred when participants recalled their experiences from a self‐aspect that was related to the elicitor of moods, whereas mood‐incongruent recall occurred when they recalled their experiences from a self‐aspect that was unrelated to the elicitor of moods. These results suggest that the nature of the self‐aspect from which persons recall their experiences determines whether mood‐congruent or mood‐incongruent recall occurs.
Job Searching with A History of Drugs and Crime
Authors: ELEY SUSAN
Published: April 2007

Abstract:This article explores the experiences and aspirations of offenders with histories of substance misuse in job searching. The analysis is based upon qualitative data from a localised study of 27 men and two women who were undertaking community‐based court orders in Scotland. Their perspectives on job searching, job‐readiness and aspirations for sustained employment including the role of self‐employment are presented. The article concludes that with adequate support, greater tolerance and flexibility by employers and job searchers could contribute to reducing the vicious cycle of suspicion and dishonesty. Policy action needs to be sustained and possibly augmented to include enterprise training.
OPPORTUNISTIC MATCHING IN THE HOUSING MARKET*
Authors: Albrecht James , Anderson Axel , Smith Eric , Vroman Susan
Published: April 2007

We construct a model of the housing market in which agents differ in their flow values while searching. Agents enter the market relaxed (with high flow values) but move to a desperate state (low flow values) at a Poisson rate if they have not already transacted. We characterize the equilibrium steady‐state matching pattern and the joint distribution of price and time to sale (for sellers). The expected price conditional on time to sale falls with time spent on the market, whereas the conditional variance of price first rises and then falls with time on the market.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers from the chestnut‐backed antbird, Myrmeciza exsul
Authors: BARNETT J. R. , WOLTMANN S. , STENZLER L. , BOGDANOWICZ S. M. , LOVETTE I. J.
Published: April 2007

We describe nine microsatellite loci from the chestnut‐backed antbird (Myrmeciza exsul), and one locus from the spotted antbird (Hylophylax naevioides) that cross‐amplifies in chestnut‐backed antbirds. The chestnut‐backed antbird is a common understorey insectivore in Neotropical lowland rain forests ranging from eastern Nicaragua to western Ecuador. Primers were developed in order to assess population structure in a fragmented landscape and to study dispersal at a local scale. Primers were tested on 60–62 individuals from a single population in the Sarapiquí Province of Costa Rica. Loci had varying degrees of polymorphism, ranging from two to 19 alleles.
Argatroban in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Beiderlinden Martin , Treschan Tanja , Görlinger Klaus , Peters Jürgen
Published: April 2007

Abstract:  The objective of this study was to assess the required dose and anticoagulatory effect of argatroban (Mitsubishi, Pharma Deutschland GmbH, Düsseldorf, Germany), a direct thrombin inhibitor approved for anticoagulation in patients with heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Nine consecutive patients undergoing ECMO for severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and presenting with suspected HIT were treated with a continuous argatroban infusion. Coagulation variables were measured and dose adjustments of argatroban were performed to target for an activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) of 50 to 60 s. The first patient received argatroban 2 µg/kg/min as recommended by the manufacturer. This resulted in excessive anticoagulation and severe bleeding. The consecutive eight patients received a 10‐fold lower dose (0.2 µg/kg/min). This dose sufficiently increased aPTT time from 46 ± 6 s to 65 ± 14 s (P < 0.001) and thrombin time from 18 ± 8 s to 45 ± 11 s (P = 0.001). The maintenance dose averaged 0.15 µg/kg/min. Duration of argatroban infusion for ECMO averaged 4 ± 1 days and no oxygenator or extracorporeal system clotting was observed. In three of nine patients (33%), HIT was confirmed. Argatroban is a feasible and effective anticoagulant for patients with suspected HIT undergoing ECMO. However, a dose 10‐fold lower than that recommended by the manufacturer is sufficient to achieve appropriate anticoagulation in critically ill patients undergoing ECMO.
When Public Participation in Administration Leads to Trust: An Empirical Assessment of Managers’ Perceptions
Authors: Wang XiaoHu , Wan Wart Montgomery
Published: April 2007

This study empirically assesses the argument that public participation enhances public trust. A model was constructed to include five intermediate factors that might link participation and trust: consensus building, ethical behaviors, accountability practices, service competence, and managerial competence. As expected, participation does explain a significant amount of public trust. However, using path analysis, only two intermediate factors—ethical behaviors and service competence—were found to significantly contribute to trust. Even successful consensus‐building activities are not likely to enhance trust unless administrative performance improves. These results indicate that if increasing public trust is the primary goal, then the primary focus should be on administrative integrity and performance results.
Graft Materials in Peyronie's Disease Surgery: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kadioglu Ates , Sanli Oner , Akman Tolga , Ersay Ahmet , Guven Selcuk , Mammadov Firdovsi
Published: April 2007

Objective

To discuss the currently used graft materials in Peyronie's surgery.

Methods

A MEDLINE search was conducted till the end of September 2006 on the surgical treatment of Peyronie's disease, and all aspects of the graft materials used for Peyronie's surgery were examined.

Results

Currently available interposing graft materials may be classified in three categories: autologous tissues, extracellular matrix (ECM) tissues, and synthetic materials. Each grafting material in these categories has its own advantages and drawbacks in terms of tissue properties, antigenicity, availability, and cost-effectiveness. Saphenous vein grafts are the most widely used among autologous grafts, with acceptable functional outcomes in the long term. Other graft materials include tunica vaginalis, fascia lata, rectus fascia, and buccal mucosa, with variable results. Despite numerous advantages in terms of tissue compatibility, the major drawback of autologous grafts is tissue harvesting that to morbidities and longer operative durations. For this reason, the use of readily available ECM tissues as the products of tissue engineering is recommended by some authors. Among ECM grafts, cadaveric and bovine pericardia have satisfactory mid-term outcomes. However, longer follow-ups with an adequate number of patients are lacking. On the other hand, recent evidence suggests that small intestinal submucosa may be associated with high rate of operative failure and complications. Generally, synthetic materials are no longer used in grafting procedures in Peyronie's surgery because of their antigenicity and inappropriate functional properties. For prosthesis surgery, pericardia as well as autologous rectus fascia grafts are probably the most suitable graft materials because of their suitable tissue characteristics that satisfy the mechanical demands of the prosthesis.

Conclusion

Saphenous vein grafting from autologous tissues and pericardium from ECM tissues have satisfactory results. However, further research and clinical studies are needed in order to determine the optimal graft material.
Sexual Dysfunction in Patients with Chronic Hand Eczema in the Turkish Population
Authors: Ergün Mahizer , Türel Ermertcan Aylin , Öztürkcan Serap , Temeltaş Gökhan , Deveci Artuner , Dinç Gönül
Published: April 2007

Introduction

Hand eczema can cause considerable psychosocial disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and difficulties at work, and it may also cause sexual dysfunction.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate sexual function in patients with hand eczema and to find out whether concomitant depression has an additional negative effect on sexual function in these patients.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual functions were evaluated in hand eczema patients.

Methods

Ninety-one female (43 patients vs. 48 controls) and 79 male (45 patients vs. 34 controls) subjects were enrolled in the study. Hand eczema severity index was used to determine severity of hand eczema. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) were used to assess sexual function. Quality of life was assessed with the Dermatology Life Quality Index. Diagnosis of depression was made based on the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM-IV, while the Hamilton Depression Rate Scale was used for grading depression.

Results

Among 43 female subjects with hand eczema, 26 had depression (60.46%); of the 45 male patients, 11 had depression (24.44%). FSFI total score was found to be significantly decreased in female patients with both eczema and depression compared with controls (20.84 ± 9.19 vs. 24.04 ± 3.40, P <0.05). FSFI total score was found to be significantly decreased in female patients with both eczema and depression compared with those without depression (20.84 ± 9.19 vs. 22.23 ± 5.82, P <0.05). IIEF total score was also found to be significantly decreased in male patients with or without depression compared with controls (52.36 ± 14.83 vs. 59.88 ± 5.65 vs. 62.03 ± 11.04, P <0.05).

Conclusions

The results of the study demonstrated that patients with hand eczema had sexual dysfunction, and concomitant depression had an additional negative effect on sexual dysfunction. Patients with hand eczema should be evaluated with regard to sexual function and depression to provide a better quality of life.
Compressive Properties and Fracture Behavior of Two‐and‐a‐Half‐Dimensional C/SiC Composites
Authors: Ma Junqiang , Xu Yongdong , Cheng Laifei , Zhang Litong , Nie Jingjiang
Published: April 2007

Uniaxial compression tests for two‐and‐a‐half‐dimensional carbon fiber‐reinforced silicon carbide composites along the warp and weft directions were conducted at room temperature. The results show that the stress–strain behaviors for both loading directions exhibited great anisotropy. The compressive strength was greater in the weft direction than in the warp direction, which is attributed to good confinement of the weft yarns and resisting roles of the warp yarns in the former. Microscopic examinations reveal that the fracture surfaces had good correlation with the weave architecture, and the failure mechanism was characterized by transverse shear resulting from fiber microbuckling in the axial yarns.
Meeting the NRC Panel's Recommendations: Commentary on the Papers by Mislevy and Haertel, Gorin, and Abedi and Gándara
Authors: Lohman David F. , Nichols Paul
Published: April 2007

In this commentary, we summarize some of the main themes of the NRC report and note ways in which the papers by Mislevy and Haertel, Gorin, and Abedi and Gándara address the Panel's recommendations. We then briefly review and offer reflections on each paper. We see much to applaud here and also in the broader effort to build bridges between the cognitive and measurement sciences. However, much work remains, not only in building bridges, be also in educating the next generation of psychometricians about cognition and the next generation of teachers about psychometrics. Until that day, even the best work here will have little impact on the business of large‐scale assessment.
THERMOELECTROMAGNETIC COUPLING IN MICROWAVE FREEZE‐DRYING
Authors: HENG SUN , HONGMEI ZHU , HAIDONG FENG , LIE XU
Published: April 2007

A coupled thermoelectromagnetic model of microwave freeze‐drying was developed by introducing the reflection coefficient method of the electromagnetic theory into the sublimation‐condensation model, to describe the coupling between the electromagnetic field strength distribution and the heat and mass transfer in microwave freeze‐drying. The experiments of beef were provided and the good agreement between the predicted and experimental results validates the model. The variations of the field strength, the temperature and the moisture content distributions during the microwave freeze‐drying process were discussed based on the model. The simulated results show that the microwave distribution in the cavity is a moving standing wave and that the actual field strength inside the material is less than that in the cavity. The nonuniform heating of the microwave will increase either the temperature in the dried region or the temperature in the frozen region, depending on the microwave input direction.
APPLICATION OF THE TAGUCHI METHOD TO OPTIMIZE MONASCUS SPP. CULTURE
Authors: CHUNG C.C. , CHEN H.H. , HSIEH P.C.
Published: April 2007

The Taguchi method was applied to determine optimum conditions for submerged culture of Monascus spp. fermentation to produce a high yield of monacolin K (also known as lovastain, mevinolin or mevacor). The control factors included carbon, nitrogen, oil, and salt sources and pH values. In the growth phase the optimum culture conditions are 1% whole wheat flour, l% peptone, 0.01% olive oil and 0.01% potassium phosphate and a pH of 5.0 (P < 0.05). In the metabolic phase the optimal culture conditions are 1% whole wheat flour, 1% peptone, 0.01% soybean oil, 0.01% potassium phosphate and a pH of 3.0 (P < 0.001). Using optimal culture conditions in the growth and metabolic phases, the yield of monacolin K in the fermentation process was 151.06 ppm.
CHARACTERIZING QUALITY OF RENDERED DUCK FAT COMPARED TO OTHER FATS AND OILS
Authors: GONG YUANSHENG , WEBER PETER F. , RICHARDS MARK P.
Published: April 2007

The characteristics of rendered duck fat (RDF) were compared to commercial sources of soybean oil, lard, tallow, butter and olive oil. RDF was highly susceptible to lipid oxidation during storage compared to the other fats and oils. However, 0.005% tert‐butyl hydroquinone delayed the onset of lipid oxidation to an extent that was comparable to the lag phase observed in the commercial fats and oils. Positive attributes of RDF included a relatively high oleic acid content and low saturated fat content. Undesirable attributes of RDF included a lack of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and intermediate levels of trans fatty acids (TFA) compared to the other lipid sources. Decreasing the time and temperature of rendering decreased the TFA content in RDF. Around one‐half of the TFA content in RDF was vaccenic acid which is converted to CLA after ingestion.
Barriers to nurse entrepreneurship: A study of the process model of entrepreneurship
Authors: Elango B. , Hunter Gary L. , Winchell Mike
Published: April 2007

Purpose: The potential for nurse entrepreneurship to contribute to the effectiveness of healthcare delivery is well acknowledged, yet it has not been fully realized. Using the process model of entrepreneurship, we attempted to glean information from nursing professionals through focus groups on the barriers to starting a business.

Data sources: Two focus groups were used and expert moderators conducted these exercises. The first focus group included two hospital administrators, a nurse entrepreneur, an ophthalmology entrepreneur, and a dean of the nursing school familiar with nurse entrepreneurship. The second focus group used 20 students in a nurse practitioner program.

Conclusions: The study findings indicate nurse practitioners and other nursing professionals do recognize the potential of nurse entrepreneurship. However, several barriers prevent them from exploiting the identified opportunity.

Implications for practice: While the barriers are significant, we believe they can be overcome with coordinated action by individual nurses, professional associations, and public policy initiatives. Several suggestions are offered to nurses seeking to become nurse entrepreneurs.