bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stratigraphy and sedimentation in a rift basin modified by synchronous strike‐slip deformation: southern Xialiao basin, Bohai, offshore China
Authors: Hsiao L.‐Y. , Graham S. A. , Tilander N.
Published: November 2009

The southern Xialiao basin, Bohai, offshore China, developed during Palaeogene time as the northern arm of the North China rift system. The right‐lateral Tan‐Lu fault developed contemporaneously along the central axis of the southern Xiaoliao basin. The syn‐rift stratigraphic megasequence of the southern Xialiao basin consists of Kongdian, Shahejie and Dongying sequences, corresponding to different phases of rifting. Sedimentation kept pace with tectonic subsidence during the deposition of the Kongdian and Dongying sequences, but was outpaced by tectonic subsidence during Shahejie deposition. The initial rift Kongdian sequence consists of alluvial conglomerate near the faulted basin margins, whereas deposits of lacustrine, dry‐pan or fluvial environments dominated basin centre. The rift climax Shahejie sequence is characterized by deep lacustrine mudstone and marginal lacustrine mudstone and siltstone towards the basin centre and margins, respectively, and the latter may include sublacustrine fan or surfaces of subaerial exposure. The late rift Dongying sequence consists of upward‐coarsening deltaic deposits, indicated by large southward‐prograding clinoform complexes, overlain by fluvial strata. Syn‐rift basin structures defined a basin‐and‐range configuration, consisting of half‐grabens bounded by normal and strike‐slip faults. However, an impinging, basement‐cored, rift uplift block forced transpression and surface uplift along the Tan‐Lu fault early in basin history, partitioning the Xiaoliao system basin into subbasins. As rifting waned and the basement block subsided, the Tan‐Lu system became transtensional, sedimentation overtook subsidence and the basin became a unified depositional basin. The Dongying sequence includes higher‐order sequences related to frequent lake‐level fluctuations. In addition to tectonism, lake‐level fluctuations likely were driven by climatic cyclicity, which shaped stratigraphic facies architecture by controlling areal extent of lakes and stacking pattern of higher‐order stratigraphic sequences.
Host specificity and reproductive success of yucca moths (Tegeticulaspp. Lepidoptera: Prodoxidae) mirror patterns of gene flow between host plant varieties of the Joshua tree (Yucca brevifolia: Agavaceae)
Authors: SMITH CHRISTOPHER IRWIN , DRUMMOND CHRISTOPHER S. , GODSOE WILLIAM , YODER JEREMY B. , PELLMYR OLLE
Published: November 2009

Coevolution between flowering plants and their pollinators is thought to have generated much of the diversity of life on Earth, but the population processes that may have produced these macroevolutionary patterns remain unclear. Mathematical models of coevolution in obligate pollination mutualisms suggest that phenotype matching between plants and their pollinators can generate reproductive isolation. Here, we test this hypothesis using a natural experiment that examines the role of natural selection on phenotype matching between yuccas and yucca moths(Tegeticulaspp.) in mediating reproductive isolation between two varieties of Joshua tree(Yucca brevifolia var. brevifoliaandY. brevifolia var. jaegeriana). Using passive monitoring techniques, DNA barcoding, microsatellite DNA genotyping, and sibship reconstruction, we track host specificity and the fitness consequences of host choice in a zone of sympatry. We show that the two moth species differ in their degree of host specificity and that oviposition on a foreign host plant results in the production of fewer offspring. This difference in host specificity between the two moth species mirrors patterns of chloroplast introgression from west to east between host varieties, suggesting that natural selection acting on pollinator phenotypes mediates gene flow and reproductive isolation between Joshua‐tree varieties.
The chloroplast protein BPG2 functions in brassinosteroid‐mediated post‐transcriptional accumulation of chloroplast rRNA
Authors: Komatsu Tomoyuki , Kawaide Hiroshi , Saito Chieko , Yamagami Ayumi , Shimada Setsuko , Nakazawa Miki , Matsui Minami , Nakano Akihiko , Tsujimoto Masafumi , Natsume Masahiro , Abe Hiroshi , Asami Tadao , Nakano Takeshi
Published: November 2009

Brassinazole (Brz) is a specific inhibitor of the biosynthesis of brassinosteroids (BRs), which regulate plant organ and chloroplast development. We identified a recessive pale green Arabidopsis mutant, bpg2‐1 (Brz‐insensitive‐pale green 2‐1) that showed reduced sensitivity to chlorophyll accumulation promoted by Brz in the light. BPG2 encodes a chloroplast‐localized protein with a zinc finger motif and four GTP‐binding domains that are necessary for normal chloroplast biogenesis. BPG2‐homologous genes are evolutionally conserved in plants, green algae and bacteria. Expression of BPG2 is induced by light and Brz. Chloroplasts of the bpg2‐1 mutant have a decreased number of stacked grana thylakoids. In bpg2‐1 and bpg2‐2 mutants, there was no reduction in expression of rbcL and psbA, but there was abnormal accumulation of precursors of chloroplast 16S and 23S rRNA. Chloroplast protein accumulation induced by Brz was suppressed by the bpg2 mutation. These results indicate that BPG2 plays an important role in post‐transcriptional and translational regulation in the chloroplast, and is a component of BR signaling.
Sirolimus‐induced signaling modifications in Kaposi’s sarcoma with resolution in a liver transplant recipient
Authors: Ho Cheng‐Maw , Huang Shiu‐Feng , Hu Rey‐Heng , Ho Ming‐Chih , Wu Yao‐Ming , Lee Po‐Huang
Published: November 2009

Ho C‐M, Huang S‐F, Hu R‐H, Ho M‐C, Wu Y‐M, Lee P‐H. Sirolimus‐induced signaling modifications in Kaposi’s sarcoma with resolution in a liver transplant recipient. Clin Transplant 2010: 24: 127–132. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Sirolimus is one treatment option in transplant recipients with Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS), which involves dysregulation of Akt‐mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. Signal modifications after sirolimus therapy in organ recipients with KS are largely unknown and not verified. We reported a case of KS found two yr after liver transplantation in which the immunosuppression was changed from tacrolimus, MMF, and steroid to sirolimus alone. In skin, which was found to have persistent KS after a two‐month treatment of sirolimus and was removed completely one yr later, KS was no longer present. The patient went well without graft rejection. Tumor biopsies were performed before, two months, and one yr after the start of sirolimus. Immunohistochemical staining of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), p‐Akt, p‐mTOR, p‐p70 S6 kinase, and Western blot for p‐tuberin/ tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)2 was performed. VEGF was suppressed thoroughly in two‐month use of sirolimus. In addition, p‐Akt and p‐mTOR, which were decreased at two months, could not be detected after one yr of treatment. Moreover, p‐p70 S6 kinase, expressed strongly in overlying epidermis initially, was suppressed completely after two months of treatment. However, p‐tuberin/TSC2, contrary to suggested theoretically, was not detected through all specimens, implying not to be a significant event. Suppressed expression of VEGF, p‐Akt, and p‐mTOR was the major event of signaling modification through the long‐term use of sirolimus.
Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy – safety in a small‐volume transplant center
Authors: Riley Julie , Troxel Scott , Wakefield Mark , Ross Gilbert , Weinstein Stephen
Published: November 2009

Riley J, Troxel S, Wakefield M, Ross G, Weinstein S. Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy – safety in a small‐volume transplant center. Clin Transplant 2010: 24: 429–432. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract: Introduction:  Laparoscopy is a standard surgical option for live donor nephrectomy (LDN) at the majority of transplant centers. Equivalent graft survival with shorter convalescence has been reported by several large volume centers. With the arrival of an experienced laparoscopic surgeon in 2002, we began to offer laparoscopic LDN at our institution. We report our experience as a large volume laparoscopic surgery program but a low volume transplant center.

Methods:  A retrospective review of the previous 34 LDN (17 open, 17 laparoscopic) performed at the University of Missouri were included. A single laparoscopic surgeon performed all laparoscopic procedures. Hand assisted laparoscopy was performed in 15 and standard laparoscopy with a pfannenstiel incision in two. Open procedures were performed through anterior subcostal or flank incision. A single surgeon performed all open procedures.

Results:  There was no statistical difference in age, body mass index or American Society of Anesthesiologies Score between the two groups. Mean operative time, estimated blood loss and hospital stay were 229 minutes, 324 cc and 2.2 days respectively in the laparoscopic group compared to 202 minutes, 440 cc and five days for the open group. Average warm ischemia time was 179 seconds. Recipient creatinine for the two groups at one week, one month and one year was not statistically significantly different. Each group had one graft loss due to medication noncompliance.

Conclusion:  For small transplant centers with an advanced laparoscopic program, laparoscopic LDN is a safe procedure with comparable outcomes to major transplant centers.
Is plant endophyte‐mediated defensive mutualism the result of oxidative stress protection?
Authors: White James F. , Torres Mónica S.
Published: November 2009

In this review, we discuss the biology and beneficial effects of plant endophytes on host plants. The current explanation of endophyte protection (defensive mutualism) of host plants is based on the secondary metabolites (alkaloids) with antiherbivore properties produced by the symbiotic association between host plant and endophytes. We propose an alternative explanation of the mechanism of host protection through enhanced stress tolerance to oxidative stress. Several studies have demonstrated the production of different compounds (phenolics) with antioxidant capacity in endophyte‐infected plants. Endophytes may also produce mannitol, other carbohydrates and small molecules (proline) with antioxidant capacity. We suggest that enhanced antioxidant production by symbiotic plants may be the result of the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by endophytes. In turn, symbiotic plants are protected from oxidative stress produced by plant diseases, droughts, heavy metals and other oxidative stressors by the production of antioxidants. We also discuss the lichen symbiosis and evaluate whether management of ROS also plays a role in this defensive mutualism. Future experiments are needed to evaluate the hypothesis that antioxidants are responsible for enhanced stress tolerance in endophyte‐infected plants.
Relationships between auditory event‐related potentials and mood state, medication, and comorbid psychiatric illness in patients with bipolar disorder
Authors: Fridberg Daniel J , Hetrick William P , Brenner Colleen A , Shekhar Anantha , Steffen Ashley N , Malloy Frederick W , O’Donnell Brian F
Published: November 2009

Background:  Patients with bipolar disorder (BD) exhibit aberrations in auditory event‐related potentials (ERPs), although the relationships between these measures and mood state at testing, comorbid psychiatric illness, presence of psychotic features, and medication usage are unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between these factors and auditory ERP measures in BD patients.

Methods:  An auditory ‘oddball’ discrimination task was used to elicit ERPs from 69 patients with type I BD and 52 healthy controls. Patients were placed into subgroups based upon their mood state at testing (euthymic or symptomatic), and ANOVA was used to compare amplitude and peak latency measures from the N100, P200, N200, and P300 ERP components across subgroups. Multiple regression was used to investigate relationships between ERP measures and comorbid psychiatric diagnosis, history of psychotic features, and medication status.

Results:  Relative to healthy control participants, euthymic and symptomatic BD patients exhibited reduced P300 and P200 amplitude, but ERP measures did not differ among BD patients on the basis of mood status. A history of a comorbid anxiety disorder was associated with reduced N200 peak latency, but prolonged P300 peak latency among BD patients. No other relationships between clinical variables and ERP measures were significant.

Conclusions:  The results suggest that disrupted auditory attention may be observed in BD patients regardless of their mood state at testing, medication status, or history of psychosis. These results extend previous findings, and provide further evidence for aberrations in the P300 ERP as an endophenotype for BD.
The role of dopamine in bipolar disorder
Authors: Cousins David A , Butts Kelly , Young Allan H
Published: November 2009

Objective:  Despite effective pharmacological treatments for bipolar disorder, we still lack a comprehensive pathophysiological model of the illness. Recent neurobiological research has implicated a number of key brain regions and neuronal components in the behavioural and cognitive manifestations of bipolar disorder. Dopamine has previously been investigated in some depth in bipolar disorder, but of late has not been a primary focus of attention. This article examines the role of dopamine in bipolar disorder, incorporating recent advances into established models where possible.

Methods:  A critical evaluation of the literature was undertaken, including a review of behavioural, neurochemical, receptor, and imaging studies, as well as genetic studies focusing on dopamine receptors and related metabolic pathways. In addition, pharmacologic manipulation of the central dopaminergic pathways and comparisons with other disease states such as schizophrenia were considered, principally as a means of exploring the hypothesised models.

Results:  Multiple lines of evidence, including data from pharmacological interventions and structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging studies, suggest that the dopaminergic system may play a central role in bipolar disorder.

Conclusion:  Future research into the pathophysiological mechanisms of bipolar disorder and the development of new treatments for bipolar disorder should focus on the dopaminergic system.
Functional imaging of emotional memory in bipolar disorder and schizophrenia
Authors: Whalley Heather C , McKirdy James , Romaniuk Liana , Sussmann Jessika , Johnstone Eve C , Wan Hong I , McIntosh Andrew M , Lawrie Stephen M , Hall Jeremy
Published: November 2009

Objectives:  Although in current diagnostic criteria there exists a distinction between bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, many patients manifest features of both disorders, and it is unclear which aspects, if any, confer diagnostic specificity. In the present study, we investigate whether there are differences in medial temporal lobe (MTL) activation in bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. We also investigate associations between activation levels and symptom severity across the disorders.

Methods:  Functional magnetic resonance imaging scans were conducted on 14 healthy controls, 14 patients with bipolar disorder, and 15 patients with schizophrenia undergoing an emotional memory paradigm.

Results:  All groups demonstrated the expected pattern of behavioural responses during encoding and retrieval, and there were no significant group differences in performance. Robust MTL activation was seen in all three groups during viewing of emotional scenes, which correlated significantly with recognition memory for emotional stimuli. The bipolar group demonstrated relatively greater increases in activation for emotional versus neutral scenes in the left hippocampus than both controls and patients with schizophrenia. There was a significant positive correlation between mania scores and activation in the anterior cingulate, and a significant negative correlation between depression scores and activation in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

Conclusion:  These results provide evidence that there are distinct patterns of activation in the MTL during an emotional memory task in bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. They also demonstrate that different mood states are associated with different neurobiological responses to emotion across the patient groups.
Time course of rocuronium‐induced neuromuscular block after pre‐treatment with magnesium sulphate: a randomised study
Authors: CZARNETZKI C. , LYSAKOWSKI C. , ELIA N. , TRAMÈR M. R.
Published: November 2009

Background: A previously published study suggested that pre‐treatment with magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) had no impact on the speed of onset of rocuronium‐induced neuromuscular block. We set out to verify this assumption.

Methods: Eighty patients (18–60 years) were randomly allocated to MgSO4 60 mg/kg or placebo (saline). Study drugs were given intravenously for 15 min before induction of anaesthesia with propofol, sufentanil and rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg. Anaesthesia was maintained with a target‐controlled propofol infusion. Neuromuscular transmission was measured using train‐of‐four (TOF)‐Watch SX® acceleromyography.

Results: Onset was analysed in 37 MgSO4 and 38 saline patients, and recovery in 35 MgSO4 and 37 saline patients. Onset time (to 95% depression of T1) was on average 77 [SD=18] s with MgSO4 and 120 [48] s with saline (P<0.001). The total recovery time (DurTOF0.9) was on average 73.2 [22] min with MgSO4 and 57.8 [14.2] min with saline (P<0.003). The clinical duration (Dur25%) was on average 44.7 [14] min with MgSO4 and 33.2 [8.1] min with saline (P<0.0002). The recovery index (Dur25–75%) was on average 14.0 [6] min with MgSO4 and 11.2 [5.2] min with saline (P<0.02). The recovery time (Dur25%TOF0.9) was on average 28.5 [11.7] min with MgSO4 and 24.7 [8.4] min with saline (P=0.28).

Conclusion: Magnesium sulphate given 15 min before propofol anaesthesia reduces the onset time of rocuronium by about 35% and prolongs the total recovery time by about 25%.

Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT00405977.
Nocturnal fish utilization of a subtropical mangrove‐seagrass ecotone
Authors: Hammerschlag Neil , Serafy Joseph E.
Published: November 2009

Whereas diel fish migration between mangrove and seagrass habitats has been recognized for decades, quantitative studies have focused mainly on diurnal patterns of fish distribution and abundance. In general, previous studies have shown that fish abundances decline with increasing distance from mangroves; however, evidence for such a pattern at night, when many fishes are actively feeding, is scarce. The present study is the first to report nocturnal fish abundances along a continuous distance gradient from mangroves across adjacent seagrass habitat (0–120 m). Here, we used nocturnal seine sampling to test the null hypothesis (based on diurnal studies and limited nocturnal work) that fish abundance would decrease with increasing distance from shoreline. We focused on species and life‐stage‐specific abundance patterns of Lutjanus griseus, Sphyraena barracuda, Archosargus rhomboidalis, and Haemulon sciurus. Results indicated that assemblage composition and structure differed significantly by season, likely influenced by temperature. However, within each season, the fish habitat use pattern at both the assemblage and species‐specific level generally failed to support our working null hypothesis. Species‐specific analyses revealed that, for most species and life‐stages examined, nocturnal abundance either did not change with distance or increased with distance from the mangrove‐seagrass ecotone. Our results suggest that analyses where taxa are grouped to report overall patterns may have the potential to overlook significant species‐ and stage‐specific variation. For fishes known to make nocturnal migrations, we recommend nocturnal sampling to determine habitat utilization patterns, especially when inferring nursery value of multiple habitats or when estimating fish production.
Lipids' peroxidation markers in Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia
Authors: Gustaw‐Rothenberg Katarzyna , Kowalczuk Krystyna , Stryjecka‐Zimmer Marta
Published: November 2009

Aim:  Although a large body of evidence supports a role of oxidative stress in the etiopathogenesis of dementia, there is still a substantial lack of data regarding the biomarkers of oxidative stress characteristic of Alzheimer's disease (AD) as opposed to different types of dementia. In this study, the level of various oxidative stress parameters were measured in AD, vascular dementia (VaD), and age‐ and sex‐matched control patients. The AD and VaD patients all had similar levels of cognitive impairment as measured by the Mini‐Mental State Examination.

Methods:  Thirty AD, 19 VaD and 29 controls patients were recruited to the study. Plasma levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), total sulfhydryl (T‐SH), calcium (Ca++) and magnesium (Mg++) were measured.

Results:  In both AD and VaD groups, the levels of oxidative stress parameters were higher compared with controls. Further, the VaD patients expressed significantly higher levels of plasma parameters of oxidative stress than AD. The difference was noted in MDA, the marker of lipid peroxidation, whereas in VaD the level of MDA was more than 2.8‐fold higher than that registered in AD patients.

Conclusion:  Vascular dementia in patients is characteristic of increased levels of oxidative stress, especially lipid peroxidation markers. This finding is relevant to determining the pathophysiology of dementia, particularly in the light of the recently suggested importance of the vascular component in dementia development, in addition to aiding in the diagnosis of VaD following clinical presentation. The study will be continued to compare the character and level of decline in both groups.
On the estimation of fatigue life in notches differentiating the phases of crack initiation and propagation
Authors: VÁZQUEZ J. , NAVARRO C. , DOMÍNGUEZ J.
Published: November 2009

Over the last three decades, a variety of models have been developed in order to predict the life of components under fatigue. Some of the models are based on the definition of the fatigue process as a combination of the phases of crack initiation and crack propagation, considering component life as the sum of the duration of each phase. Other models consider only one of the phases; some consider only initiation while others only propagation, though in this case, from cracks with lengths in the order of the microstructural dimensions. This article will carry out a comparative analysis of the methods that consider life as the sum of the duration of both phases. In this same line, it proposes yet another method, which simulates crack growth according to damage theories. In analysing the behaviour of each model, this paper will describe various elements: the prediction that each of them produces regarding notched specimens submitted to testing, the advantages and inconveniences of each, and lastly, the possibilities of applying each of the models to more realistic geometries.
Land‐use intensification reduces functional redundancy and response diversity in plant communities
Authors: Laliberté Etienne , Wells Jessie A. , DeClerck Fabrice , Metcalfe Daniel J. , Catterall Carla P. , Queiroz Cibele , Aubin Isabelle , Bonser Stephen P. , Ding Yi , Fraterrigo Jennifer M. , McNamara Sean , Morgan John W. , Merlos Dalia Sánchez , Vesk Peter A. , Mayfield Margaret M.
Published: November 2009

Ecosystem resilience depends on functional redundancy (the number of species contributing similarly to an ecosystem function) and response diversity (how functionally similar species respond differently to disturbance). Here, we explore how land‐use change impacts these attributes in plant communities, using data from 18 land‐use intensity gradients that represent five biomes and > 2800 species. We identify functional groups using multivariate analysis of plant traits which influence ecosystem processes. Functional redundancy is calculated as the species richness within each group, and response diversity as the multivariate within‐group dispersion in response trait space, using traits that influence responses to disturbances. Meta‐analysis across all datasets showed that land‐use intensification significantly reduced both functional redundancy and response diversity, although specific relationships varied considerably among the different land‐use gradients. These results indicate that intensified management of ecosystems for resource extraction can increase their vulnerability to future disturbances.

Ecology Letters(2010) 13: 76–86
Improving glycaemic control in children and adolescents: which aspects of therapy really matter?
Authors: Skinner T. C. , Cameron F. J.
Published: November 2009

Diabet. Med. 27, 369–375 (2010)

In paediatric diabetes, the concept of intensive therapy in the post‐Diabetes Control and Complications Trial period has become subverted by a pharmaco‐technological paradigm at the expense of other aspects of care such as goal‐setting and psychosocial support. This review examines which patients benefit most from intensive therapy in terms of glycaemic control (HbA1c). It also reviews published controlled trial and observational data relating to the impact of various insulin types and delivery systems on glycaemic control and canvasses the literature dealing with the impact of patient support, philosophy of care, goal setting and treating team dynamic on HbA1c. Taking into account the characteristics of those patients who benefit most from intensive therapy, the quantum of HbA1c change and the persistence of changes that have been reported in selected and non‐selected patient groups, it appears that there is a clear hierarchy in aspects of therapy that improve glycaemic control for children and adolescents with Type 1 diabetes. Prime issues appear to be patient support, team cohesion and goal setting. The reported glycaemic benefits achieved by an isolated emphasis upon a pharmaco‐technological paradigm are limited in children and adolescents. It appears that only after the prime issues have been first considered will the potential benefits of the insulin types and regimens then be realized.
Measurements of medication adherence in diabetic patients with poorly controlled HbA1c
Authors: Cohen H. W. , Shmukler C. , Ullman R. , Rivera C. M. , Walker E. A.
Published: November 2009

Diabet. Med. 27, 210–216 (2010)

Aims  To assess pharmacy claims and self‐report data as measures of medication adherence and to describe baseline characteristics of subjects in the Improving Diabetes Outcomes Study.

Methods  Multi‐ethnic, lower‐income, insured adults (n = 526) in New York City with Type 2 diabetes were enrolled in a randomized, controlled, behavioural intervention study delivered by telephone. Baseline data were examined, including glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), objective measures of diabetes medication adherence [claims data medication possession ratio (MPR)], and two self‐report measures [Morisky Medication‐taking Scale and the medication‐taking item of the Summary of Diabetes Self‐Care Activities (SDSCA)]. Associations of highest tertile HbA1c (≥ 9.3%) with lowest tertile MPR (< 42%) were assessed with logistic regression models adjusting for potential confounders. Subset analyses were performed based on assessment of potential interaction.

Results  Participants (mean ± sd age 56 ± 7 years) had median (interquartile range) HbA1c 8.6% (8.0–10.0). Correlations of baseline MPR with Morisky score and SDSCA medication‐taking item were strongly significant (both ρ = 0.21, P < 0.001). Lowest MPR was significantly (P = 0.008) associated with highest HbA1c in the group as a whole and among the subset taking two or more oral glucose‐lowering agents (OGLA) (P = 0.002), but not among the subset taking only one (P = 0.83). Self‐report adherence measures were not significantly associated with HbA1c in either the whole group or either subset.

Conclusions  These results support the validity of MPR as an adherence measure for OGLA among insured diabetes patients with poorly controlled HbA1c, especially those taking two or more OGLA.
INFLATION AND CENTRAL BANK INDEPENDENCE: A META‐REGRESSION ANALYSIS
Authors: Klomp Jeroen , De Haan Jakob
Published: November 2009

Abstract Using 59 studies, we perform a meta‐regression analysis of studies examining the relationship between inflation and central bank independence (CBI). The studies considered are very different with respect to the CBI indicator used, the sample of countries and time periods covered, model specification, estimators used and publication outlet. We conclude that there is a significant publication bias. However, we also find a significant genuine effect of CBI on inflation. Differences between studies are not caused by differences in CBI indicators used.
Between Religion and Superstition: Buddhism and Daoism in Guangzhou, China, 1900–1937
Authors: POON SHUK‐WAH
Published: November 2009

This paper illustrates how Buddhist and Daoist monasteries in Guangzhou, with their legal religious status, situated themselves within the new concept of the modern nation‐state, and how the distinction between religion and superstition affected ordinary people's religious lives. There were inherent tensions between religion and the modern nation‐state, and the survival of Buddhism and Daoism was determined by their subordination to the state ideology and to political authorities’ regulation. However, the government did not regulate the form of worship in government‐approved religious sites. Due to the syncretic nature of Chinese religion, the select few of the Buddhist and Daoist monasteries in Guangzhou, with government recognition as symbols of “true religions,” paradoxically served as a protective umbrella for the people to carry on with their “superstitious” practices. At the level of praxis, the line between religion and superstition was not as distinguishable as the government had envisioned.
Self‐Selection and the Forecasting Abilities of Female Equity Analysts
Authors: KUMAR ALOK
Published: November 2009

This paper investigates whether there are systematic differences between the forecasting style and abilities of female and male analysts, and whether market participants recognize these differences. My key conjecture is that only female analysts with superior forecasting abilities enter the profession due to a perception of discrimination in the analyst labor market. Consistent with this conjecture, I find that female analysts issue bolder and more accurate forecasts and their accuracy is higher in market segments in which their concentration is lower. Further, the stock market participants are aware of the male–female skill differences. They respond more strongly to the forecast revisions by female analysts even though those analysts get less media coverage. The short‐term market reaction is incomplete, however, because it is followed by a strong post‐revision drift. The perception of abilities is similar in the analyst labor market, where female analysts are more likely to move up to high‐status brokerage firms, while their downward career mobility is lower. Collectively, these results indicate that female analysts have better‐than‐average skill due to self‐selection and market participants are at least partially able to recognize their superior abilities.
Dalcetrapib: no off‐target toxicity on blood pressure or on genes related to the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system in rats
Authors: Stroes ESG , Kastelein JJP , Bénardeau A , Kuhlmann O , Blum D , Campos LA , Clerc RG , Niesor EJ
Published: November 2009

Background and purpose:  The association between torcetrapib and its off‐target effects on blood pressure suggested a possible class‐specific effect. The effects of dalcetrapib (RO4607381/JTT‐705) and torcetrapib on haemodynamics and the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system (RAAS) were therefore assessed in a rat model.

Experimental approach:  Arterial pressure (AP) and heart rate were measured by telemetry in normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) receiving torcetrapib 10, 40 or 80 mg·kg−1·day−1; dalcetrapib 100, 300 or 500 mg−1·kg·day−1; or vehicle (placebo) for 5 days. Expression of RAAS genes in adrenal gland, kidney, aorta and lung from normotensive rats following 5 days' treatment with torcetrapib 40 mg·kg−1·day−1, dalcetrapib 500 mg·kg−1·day−1 or vehicle was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Key results:  Torcetrapib transiently increased mean AP in normotensive rats (+3.7 ± 0.1 mmHg), whereas treatment in SHR resulted in a dose‐dependent and sustained increase [+6.5 ± 0.6 mmHg with 40 mg·kg−1·day−1 at day 1 (P < 0.05 versus placebo)], which lasted over the treatment period. No changes in AP or heart rate were observed with dalcetrapib. Torcetrapib, but not dalcetrapib, increased RAAS‐related mRNAs in adrenal glands and aortas.

Conclusions and implications:  In contrast to torcetrapib, dalcetrapib did not increase blood pressure or RAAS‐related gene expression in rats, suggesting that the off‐target effects of torcetrapib are not a common feature of all compounds acting on cholesteryl ester transfer protein.
Cardiovascular changes in spontaneously hypertensive rats are improved by chronic treatment with zofenopril
Authors: Gómez‐Roso M , Montero MJ , Carrón R , Sevilla MA
Published: November 2009

Background and purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of chronic treatment with antihypertensive and non‐antihypertensive doses of zofenopril on cardiovascular changes in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR).

Experimental approach: Male SHR were treated with 0.5 or 10 mg·kg−1per day of zofenopril (Z0.5and Z10) for 3 months. SHR and Wistar‐Kyoto rats (WKY) receiving vehicle were used as controls. Systolic blood pressure was measured using the tail cuff method. Left ventricular weight/body weight ratio was calculated as cardiac hypertrophy index. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity was determined in plasma and tissues by a fluorimetric method. Vascular reactivity was evaluated on aortic rings by acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside relaxations. Effects on vascular structure were assessed by lumen diameter, wall thickness and medial cross‐sectional area determination. Superoxide anion generation was quantified using lucigenin‐amplified chemiluminescence in aorta.

Results: Long‐term daily administration of zofenopril (10 mg·kg−1) to SHR reduced blood pressure to WKY values, decreased cardiac hypertrophy, improved the acetylcholine‐induced relaxant response and reversed the vascular remodelling. ACE inhibition and antioxidant activity were involved in these effects. 0.5 mg·kg−1per day of zofenopril slightly modified blood pressure and the other effects were weaker.

Conclusions and implications: Antihypertensive effects of chronic treatment with zofenopril were accompanied by recovery of endothelial function and improvement of cardiovascular structure. Low‐dose zofenopril had little effect on blood pressure, with some benefits on cardiovascular structure and function. Inhibition of ACE and antioxidant activity were involved in these effects.
Proteolytic roles of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐13 during progression of chronic periodontitis: initial evidence for MMP‐13/MMP‐9 activation cascade
Authors: Hernández Ríos Marcela , Sorsa Timo , Obregón Fabián , Tervahartiala Taina , Valenzuela María Antonieta , Pozo Patricia , Dutzan Nicolás , Lesaffre Emmanuel , Molas Marek , Gamonal Jorge
Published: November 2009

Aim: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)‐13 can initiate bone resorption and activate proMMP‐9 in vitro, and both these MMPs have been widely implicated in tissue destruction associated with chronic periodontitis. We studied whether MMP‐13 activity and TIMP‐1 levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) associated with progression of chronic periodontitis assessed clinically and by measuring carboxy‐terminal telopeptide of collagen I (ICTP) levels. We additionally addressed whether MMP‐13 could potentiate gelatinase activation in diseased gingival tissue.

Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, GCF samples from subjects undergoing clinical progression of chronic periodontitis and healthy controls were screened for ICTP levels, MMP‐13 activity and TIMP‐1. Diseased gingival explants were cultured, treated or not with MMP‐13 with or without adding CL‐82198, a synthetic MMP‐13 selective inhibitor, and assayed by gelatin zymography and densitometric analysis.

Results: Active sites demonstrated increased ICTP levels and MMP‐13 activity (p<0.05) in progression subjects. The MMP‐9 activation rate was elevated in MMP‐13‐treated explants (p<0.05) and MMP‐13 inhibitor prevented MMP‐9 activation.

Conclusions: MMP‐13 could be implicated in the degradation of soft and hard supporting tissues and proMMP‐9 activation during progression of chronic periodontitis. MMP‐13 and ‐9 can potentially form an activation cascade overcoming the protective TIMP‐1 shield, which may become useful for diagnostic aims and a target for drug development.
Melatonin prevents capacitation and apoptotic‐like changes of ram spermatozoa and increases fertility rate
Authors: Casao Adriana , Mendoza Noelia , Pérez‐Pé Rosaura , Grasa Patricia , Abecia José‐Alfonso , Forcada Fernando , Cebrián‐Pérez José A. , Muino‐Blanco Teresa
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  We recently demonstrated the presence of melatonin in ram seminal plasma and differences in its concentration in this fluid between the breeding and nonbreeding season. In this study, we investigate the hypothesis that in vitro treatment with melatonin affects ram sperm quality, and that this is reflected in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) results. Semen from nine rams was collected during the nonreproductive season and treated with 1 μm, 10 nm and 100 pm melatonin. Samples were incubated at 39°C and 5% CO2, and motility, viability, capacitation status and phosphatidylserine (PS) translocation were assessed before and after melatonin addition, either 1 or 3 hr of incubation. Fertility rate of the melatonin‐treated samples was determined by means of IVF. Although melatonin failed to affect both sperm kinematic parameters and viability, the exposure of ram spermatozoa to melatonin has a direct effect, decreasing capacitation and PS translocation at 1 μm, and increasing short‐term capacitation at 100 pm, which caused an increased oocyte fertilization rate following IVF. Furthermore, cleavage rate of oocytes fertilized with 100 pm melatonin‐treated spermatozoa was higher than that with 1 μm melatonin and control samples (P < 0.1). These results prove that melatonin has a direct effect on ram spermatozoa in the nonreproductive season, which can be explained, at least in part, by the melatonin capacity as a reactive oxygen species scavenger and antioxidant. These findings might help to select the optimal experimental conditions for IVF and to improve sperm preservation protocols.
Reactions of the melatonin metabolite N1‐acetyl‐5‐methoxykynuramine with carbamoyl phosphate and related compounds
Authors: Kuesel Jana T. , Hardeland Rüdiger , Pfoertner Henrike , Aeckerle Nelia
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  N‐[2‐(6‐methoxyquinazolin‐4‐yl)‐ethyl] acetamide (MQA) is a compound formed from the melatonin metabolite N1‐acetyl‐5‐methoxykynuramine (AMK). We followed MQA production in reaction systems containing various putative reaction partners, in the absence and presence of hydrogen peroxide and/or copper(II). Although MQA may be formally described as a condensation product of either N1‐acetyl‐N2‐formyl‐5‐methoxykynuramine (AFMK) with ammonia, or AMK with formamide, none of these combinations led to substantial quantities of MQA. However, MQA formation was observed in mixtures containing AMK, hydrogen peroxide, hydrogen carbonate and ammonia, or AMK, hydrogen peroxide, copper(II) and potentially carbamoylating agents, such as potassium cyanate or, more efficiently, carbamoyl phosphate. In the presence of hydrogen peroxide, copper(II) and carbamoyl phosphate, MQA was the major product obtained from AMK, but the omission of copper(II) mainly led to another metabolite, 3‐acetamidomethyl‐6‐methoxycinnolinone (AMMC). This was caused by nitric oxide (NO) generated under oxidative conditions from carbamoyl phosphate, as shown by an NO spin trap. MQA formation with carbamoyl phosphate was not due to the possible decomposition product, formamide. The reaction of AMK with carbamoyl phosphate under oxidative conditions, in which inorganic phosphate and water are released and which differs from the typical process of carbamoylation via isocyanate, may be considered as a new physiological route of MQA formation.
Lubrication of a Porous Bearing With Surface Corrugations
Authors: Prakash J. , Tiwari K.
Published: November 2009

The paper considers the surface roughness effects in hydrodynamic porous bearings. On the basis of stochastic theory of hydrodynamic lubrication of rough surfaces developed by Christensen, different forms of Reynolds type equations, as applicable to a general porous bearings are derived for various types of surface roughness pattern. To illustrate the functional effects of surface roughness on the operating characteristics of a porous bearing, the case of nonrotating circular plates in normal approach is analyzed. It is shown that surface roughness may considerably influence the operating characteristics of porous bearings. The direction of the influence, however, depends upon the type of roughness assumed.
Effects of Die Surface Roughness on Lubricating Conditions in the Sheet Metal Compression-Friction Test
Authors: Mizuno T. , Hasegawa K.
Published: November 2009

Sheet specimen of soft copper were subjected to plastic compression in plane strain, and then, to measure friction, one of the platens was slid in the direction of sheet width. Combined effects of die surface roughness and oil film thickness on friction are shown as the relations between friction and relative oil film thickness (ratio of mean oil film thickness to die surface roughness). With relatively rough dies, friction decreases with increase in sliding speed, and a corresponding decrease in conformance of the workpiece to the die was observed.
Frictional Properties of a Surface Covered With a Soft Metal Film—Part 2: Analysis of Friction Between a Single Protuberance and a Surface
Authors: Kato Shinobu , Yamaguchi Katsumi , Marui Etsuo , Tachi Kiyoo
Published: November 2009

Analytical investigation of the evaluation of the coefficient of friction is made to clarify the mechanism of the load dependency of friction, which was obtained in Part 1 of this research, and also to ascertain the effects of the surface film on the friction characteristic. The plastic flow of the soft metal film between a protuberance and the subsurface is presumed, and the pressure distribution originating from the side flow is calculated on the basis of the plasticity theory. The effects of the coefficient of friction of the load, the thickness and hardness of the film, and the radius of the protuberance, are examined. As a result, it is clarified that the load dependency of friction arises from the extremely high pressure distribution generated in the film.
Stability and Unbalance Response of Large Turbine Bearings
Authors: Abdul-Wahed N. , Nicolas D. , Pascal M. T.
Published: November 2009

Different bearing types frequently used in turbine practice are studied for both stability and unbalance response by linear and nonlinear analysis. The bearing configurations studies are: plain circular, three-axial groove, elliptical, three-lobe, and the three-pocket type. For the film force calculation, the Reynolds equation was solved by finite difference techniques using the effective viscosity concept. The bearing unbalance response was investigated for two values of out-of-balance loads: small unbalance which corresponds to an inaccurate balancing of rotors, and large unbalance representative of some emergency conditions in turbomachineries (blade loss, for example.) In the nonlinear analysis, the effect of energy dissipation in the film by the dynamic motion on the effective viscosity was investigated. The principal results show that all parameters which stabilize the bearing increase the bearing sensitivity to large unbalances. The bearings are ranked as follows in the order of increasing resistance to unbalance loading: three pockets, three-axial groove, offset three lobe, elliptic, circular. A quite different classification was obtained for the stability characteristics where the circular bearing was one of the least stable bearings.
A Variational Approach to the Analysis of Rotor Dynamics Problems
Authors: Mayo R. A.
Published: November 2009

The differential equations for a rotating shaft system are derived variationally by the use of the Lagrange equations, where the kinetic and potential energy terms are obtained by integration of differential volume expressions which are in turn derived from system displacements and strains. Included, as a result, are the effects of initial and dynamic shaft curvature, gyroscopic moments, Coriolis forces, unbalances, rotatory inertia, static weight, and varying shaft cross-sections. Shown to be insignificant are the interacting effects of transverse shear, extensional displacements (and therefore axial constraint), torsion, product of inertia (for most shaft elements). Bearing forces are included as generalized forces on the shaft system. A sample solution of the equations uses the short bearing approximation to model bearing forces and derives expressions for shaft critical speed, equivalent bearing stiffness, and damping constants as functions of bearing eccentricity.
Analysis and Design of Segmented Dampers for Rotor Dynamic Control
Authors: Taylor D. L. , Fehr V. S.
Published: November 2009

Dampers have become of increasing importance in the control of shaft vibration of rotating equipment which must operate through one or more critical speeds. This paper presents the analytical results for the study of a new class of damper, the segmented film damper. A series of isolated segments of fluid are used rather than a continuous film as in the traditional squeeze film damper. This configuration provides energy dissipation through fluid viscosity within the film segments and through oriface flow in the supply and exit ports for each segment. The pressure distribution within an individual segment is developed on the basis of Reynolds equation with appropriate boundary conditions. The effects of various parameters are discussed in terms of this pressure distribution. The geometric effects of multiple segments are derived for both input, how shaft motion excites each segment, and output, how the segments’ pressure distributions combine to provide a net force. The damping force is shown to be linear for a wide range of operating conditions, speed and unbalance, and thus validly expressed in terms of a damping coefficient. Additionally, this class of damper is shown to have no radial stiffness. The limitations and implications for the designer are discussed in detail. A structured design procedure is given for the selection of parameter values, and a design example with numerical values is included.
Spherical Roller Bearing Analysis
Authors: Kleckner R. J. , Pirvics J.
Published: November 2009

This paper documents the analytic foundation and software architecture for the computerized mathematical simulation of spherical roller bearing behavior, with emphasis on the mechanical aspects of bearing operation at a given temperature. The resulting software, SPHERBEAN (SPHERical BEaring ANalysis), permits isothermal investigation of spherical bearing performance under axial, radial, or combined loading. The analysis considers elastohydrodynamic (EHD) and hydrodynamic (HD) lubrication loads, roller tilt and skew, roller speeds, and mounting fits. Sample problems illustrating program use are presented.