bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alternate day fasting impacts the brain insulin‐signaling pathway of young adult male C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Lu Jianghua , E Lezi , Wang WenFang , Frontera Jennifer , Zhu Hao , Wang Wen‐Tung , Lee Phil , Choi In Young , Brooks William M. , Burns Jeffrey M. , Aires Daniel , Swerdlow Russell H.
Published: January 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 117, 154–163.

Dietary restriction (DR) has recognized health benefits that may extend to brain. We examined how DR affects bioenergetics‐relevant enzymes and signaling pathways in the brains of C57BL/6 mice. Five‐month‐old male mice were placed in ad libitum or one of two repeated fasting and refeeding (RFR) groups, an alternate day (intermittent fed; IF) or alternate day plus antioxidants (blueberry, pomegranate, and green tea extracts) (IF + AO) fed group. During the 24‐h fast blood glucose levels initially fell but stabilized within 6 h of starting the fast, thus avoiding frank hypoglycemia. DR in general appeared to enhance insulin sensitivity. After six weeks brain AKT and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta phosphorylation were lower in the RFR mice, suggesting RFR reduced brain insulin‐signaling pathway activity. Pathways that mediate mitochondrial biogenesis were not activated; AMP kinase phosphorylation, silent information regulator 2 phosphorylation, peroxisomal proliferator‐activated receptor‐gamma coactivator 1 alpha levels, and cytochrome oxidase subunit 4 levels did not change. ATP levels also did not decline, which suggests the RFR protocols did not directly impact brain bioenergetics. Antioxidant supplementation did not affect the brain parameters we evaluated. Our data indicate in young adult male C57BL/6 mice, RFR primarily affects brain energy metabolism by reducing brain insulin signaling, which potentially results indirectly as a consequence of reduced peripheral insulin production.
The cannabinoid type‐1 receptor carboxyl‐terminus, more than just a tail
Authors: Stadel Rebecca , Ahn Kwang H. , Kendall Debra A.
Published: January 2011

J. Neurochem.(2011)117, 1–18.

The cannabinoid type‐1 (CB1) receptor is a G protein‐coupled receptor that binds the main active ingredient of marijuana, Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol, and has been implicated in several disease states, including drug addiction, anxiety, depression, obesity, and chronic pain. In the two decades since the discovery of CB1, studies at the molecular level have centered on the transmembrane core. This interest has now expanded as we discover that other regions of CB1, including the CB1carboxyl‐terminus, have critical structures that are important for CB1activity and regulation. Following the recent description of the three dimensional structure of the full‐length CB1carboxyl‐terminal tail [Biopolymers(2009) vol. 91, pp. 565–573], several residues and structural motifs including two α‐helices (termed H8 and H9) have been postulated to interact with common G protein‐coupled receptor accessory proteins, such as G‐proteins and β‐arrestins. This discourse will focus on the CB1carboxyl‐terminus; our current understanding of the structural features of this region, evidence for its interaction with proteins, and the impact of structure on the binding and regulatory function of CB1accessory proteins. The involvement of the carboxyl‐terminus in the receptor life cycle including activation, desensitization, and internalization will be highlighted.
Low‐n oligomers as therapeutic targets of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ono Kenjiro , Yamada Masahito
Published: January 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 117, 19–28.

The pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease involves the progressive accumulation of amyloid β‐protein (Aβ). Recent studies using synthetic Aβ peptides, a cell culture model, Aβ precursor protein transgenic mice models suggest that pre‐fibrillar forms of Aβ are more deleterious than extracellular fibril forms. Recent findings obtained using synthetic Aβ peptides and human samples indicated that low‐n oligomers (from dimers to octamers) may be proximate toxins for neuron and synapse. Here, we review the recent studies on the soluble oligomers, especially low‐n oligomers in Alzheimer’s disease.
Unmasking of LPA1 receptor‐mediated migration response to lysophosphatidic acid by interleukin‐1β‐induced attenuation of Rho signaling pathways in rat astrocytes
Authors: Sato Koichi , Horiuchi Yuta , Jin Ye , Malchinkhuu Enkhzol , Komachi Mayumi , Kondo Toshihiko , Okajima Fumikazu
Published: January 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 117, 164–174.

Action mechanism of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), and lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) to regulate motility, an important process of astrogliosis, was investigated in rat astrocytes. While LPA exerted no significant effect on the cell migration, the prior treatment of the cells with LPS or IL‐1β resulted in the appearance of migration activity in response to LPA. The LPS induction of the migration response to LPA was associated with the production of IL‐1β precursor protein and inhibited by the IL‐1 receptor antagonist. The IL‐1β treatment also allowed LPA to activate Rac1. The LPA‐induced Rac1 activation and migration were inhibited by pertussis toxin, a small interfering RNA specific to LPA1 receptors, and LPA1 receptor antagonists, including Ki16425. However, the IL‐1β treatment had no appreciable effect on LPA1 receptor mRNA expression and LPA‐induced activation of ERK, Akt, and proliferation. The induction of the migration response to LPA by IL‐1β was inhibited by a constitutively active RhoA. Moreover, LPA significantly activated RhoA through the LPA1 receptor in the control cells but not in the IL‐1β‐treated cells. These results suggest that IL‐1β inhibits the LPA1 receptor‐mediated Rho signaling through the IL‐1 receptor, thereby disclosing the LPA1 receptor‐mediated Gi protein/Rac/migration pathway.
Forest fragmentation drives Atlantic forest of northeastern Brazil to biotic homogenization
Authors: Lôbo Diele , Leão Tarciso , Melo Felipe P. L. , Santos André M. M. , Tabarelli Marcelo
Published: January 2011

Aim  To examine whether the tree flora of the Atlantic forest of northeastern Brazil has experienced detectable taxonomic homogenization via the proliferation of native pioneer species in response to habitat loss and fragmentation.

Location  Biotic homogenization (BH) was examined across the Atlantic forest of northeast Brazil, i.e. a 56,000 km2 piece of tropical forest and a distinct centre of species endemism in South America.

Methods  We assessed a dataset consisting of 5122 tree records and compared the similarity of tree floras from 12 semi‐natural sub‐regions of the Atlantic forest between two time periods: pre‐1980 (plant records between 1902 and 1980), and post‐1980 (between 1981 and 2006). To understand the mechanisms leading to BH (1) tree floras were ordered (via non‐metric multidimensional scaling – NMDS) by date (pre/post 1980) based on species occurrence and frequency, (2) NMDS axes were regressed against the proportion of those species that increased their occurrence post‐1980 (i.e. the winner species), and (3) patterns of geographic distribution and frequency of particular life‐history traits were examined across winner species and a control group.

Results  Tree floras across the Atlantic forest became c. 20–40% more similar to each other post‐1980, but patterns of species similarity were also influenced by between‐plot geographical distance. NMDS ordination clearly segregated pre‐ and post‐1980 floras with a clear signal of floristic convergence. Furthermore, winner tree species were largely composed of short‐lived and small‐seeded pioneer species that exhibit wide geographic distributions.

Main conclusions  Our results suggest that tropical forest biotas are susceptible to taxonomic homogenization (i.e. increasing levels of similarity) in the context of severe human‐disturbance via the proliferation of particular groups of native species comprised mainly by ecologically‐plastic, generalist species. We are thus extending the concept of homogenization to address and highlight a pervasive biological shift in the structure of tropical forest communities currently taking place across hyper‐fragmented landscapes.
Consequences and Institutional Determinants of Unregulated Corporate Financial Statements: Evidence from Embedded Value Reporting
Authors: SERAFEIM GEORGE
Published: January 2011

I analyze Embedded Value (EV) reporting by firms with life insurance operations to assess the impact of unregulated financial reporting on transparency and to examine the institutional characteristics that promote unregulated reporting. Under EV accounting, the present value of future cash flows from in‐force contracts is included in shareholders’ equity, and profit is calculated as the change in equity between two periods. In contrast to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), this approach produces higher shareholder's equity and recognizes income at contract inception. I find firms that adopt EV reporting exhibit a decline in information asymmetry, with the decline increasing as EV reporting evolves to address methodological deficiencies and to permit more comparability across firms. The decrease in information asymmetry is contingent on providing an audit certification, and larger for firms that commit to providing EV reports. Moreover, I document that EV reporting is more widespread in countries with more hostile takeovers, managers that do not avoid volatile income measures, regulators that are less likely to intervene in the product market, and analysts that believe EV disclosure increases the value of their information intermediation function.
Evaluation of S‐Adenosyl l‐Methionine in a Double‐Blinded, Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled, Clinical Trial for Treatment of Presumptive Osteoarthritis in the Dog
Authors: Imhoff Darren J. , Gordon‐Evans Wanda J. , Evans Richard B. , Johnson Ann L. , Griffon Dominique J. , Swanson Kelly S.
Published: January 2011

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of S‐adenosyl l‐methionine (SAMe) in the treatment of clinically inferred canine osteoarthritis (OA).

Study Design: Six weeks, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, clinical trial.

Animals: Dogs (n=33) with clinical signs, history, and orthopedic exams consistent with OA.

Methods: Dogs were block randomized by body condition score (<6/9, or ≥6/9) into either the placebo or SAMe group. Outcome was assessed using pressure platform gait analysis, examination score, goniometry, and the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) at the time of study entrance and at 3 and 6 weeks after entry. Groups were compared using parametric and nonparametric paired tests as appropriate, and numbers needed to treat (NNT) were calculated for the CBPI and peak vertical force (PVF).

Results: Both groups (n=15 placebo, n=18 SAMe) had a reduction in mean PVF (P=.02) and vertical impulse (VI; P=.06) from the 1st to 3rd visit. There was no significant difference between the placebo group and SAMe group for PVF, VI, or either part of the CBPI (Severity or Impact). The NNT at 6 weeks for the Severity score was 3, Impact score was 25, and PVF was 45.

Conclusions: These data do not support the use of SAMe as an effective stand alone treatment for reducing clinical signs of OA, as measured by PVF, VI, goniometry, CBPI (both Severity and Impact), and examination score within 6 weeks of treatment.
Management of Femoral Fractures in Dogs with Unilateral Semicircular External Skeletal Fixators
Authors: Yardimci Cenk , Ozak Ahmet , Nisbet H.Ozlem
Published: January 2011

Objective: To report use of semicircular external skeletal fixators (ESF) for management of femoral fractures in dogs.

Study Design: Prospective clinical study.

Animals: Dogs (n=16) with femoral fractures (n=18).

Methods: A semicircular ESF system composed of 6‐hole 45° or 5‐hole 40° carbon‐fiber arches, 6 mm threaded rods, half pin fixation bolts, 6 mm nuts, and negative profile end‐threaded half pins were used for open repair of femoral fractures. ESF configuration, complications, limb use, fixator removal time, and functional outcomes were evaluated. Outcome was graded as excellent, good, fair, or poor.

Results: Seventeen fractures with sufficient follow‐up healed. Eight dogs started using the limb immediately after waking up from anesthesia whereas initial limb use was 1–4 days after repair in the other dogs. Time to fixator removal ranged from 28 to 63 days (mean, 38 days). Functional outcome was excellent in 13 cases, good in 4, and poor in 1 nonunion.

Conclusion: Semicircular ESF combined with open surgical reduction can be used to successfully repair metaphyseal and diaphyseal femoral fractures in young growing dogs.
Evaluation of Ethyl Alcohol for Use in a Minimally Invasive Technique for Equine Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthrodesis
Authors: Wolker Ryan R.E. , Wilson David G. , Allen Andrew L. , Carmalt James L.
Published: January 2011

Objective:To determine whether intra‐articular 70% ethyl alcohol alone (IAEA) or in combination with 2 percutaneously placed transarticular lag screws (EA‐TLS) would result in arthrodesis of the equine proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint.

Study Design:Experimental.

Animals:Healthy horses (n=6), aged 1.5–3 years, free of lameness, diagonally paired front and hind PIP joints.

Methods:Six milliliters 70% ethyl alcohol was injected into randomly selected diagonally paired front and hind PIP joints. Thirty days later, 2 parallel 5.5 mm cortical screws were inserted in lag fashion across the hind PIP joints and the limbs were cast. Horses were confined for 60 days after surgery before free exercise was permitted. Serial lameness examinations were performed at 1, 6, and 10 months. Radiographs of the PIP joints were obtained before injection with alcohol (front, hind PIP joints), at 6 and 10 months (front PIP joints) and 1, 3, 6, and 10 months (hind PIP joints). At 10 months, horses were euthanatized and gross and histopathologic examination of the treated joints was performed.

Results:Horses had variable cartilage thinning (more severe in hind PIP joints) and dorsal bone proliferation. One front and 1 hind PIP joint were fused 10 months after alcohol injection.

Conclusions:Ethyl alcohol injected alone or in combination with percutaneously placed transarticular lag screws failed to reliably produce fusion of the PIP joint.
Taking Nonprofit Intermediaries Seriously: A Middle‐Range Theory for Implementation Research
Authors: Shea Jennifer
Published: January 2011

The federal government often works through nonprofit intermediaries to reach and empower communities in the United States. One increasingly popular policy strategy is to offer grant funding to intermediary organizations in an effort to strengthen communities. Funded intermediaries are tasked with building the capacity of faith‐based and community organizations at the local level, but the policy theory that informs these programs does not specify how these capacity‐building efforts will lead to stronger communities. Missing is a middle‐range implementation theory that links inputs to community‐level changes through the actions of an intermediary. Derived from empirical case study evidence using process‐tracing analysis, the theory of the community‐integrated intermediary posited in this article helps fill that gap.
Predictors of Administrative and Technological Innovations in Nonprofit Organizations
Authors: Jaskyte Kristina
Published: January 2011

This study examines the effects of human and structural/process factors on two types of innovation—administrative and technological—in a sample of nonprofit organizations. The results indicate that factors that are favorable to administrative innovations differ from those that are conducive to technological innovation. Three variables are significant predictors of administrative innovation: centralization, transformational leadership, and the executive director’s job tenure. Transformational leadership contributes significantly to the model of technological innovation. Based on the results of this study, the author provides implications for nonprofit management and future research.
Toward “Strong Democracy” in Global Cities? Social Capital Building, Theory‐Driven Reform, and the Los Angeles Neighborhood Council Experience
Authors: Musso Juliet , Weare Christopher , Bryer Thomas , Cooper Terry L.
Published: January 2011

With faith in government waning, cultural diversity spiraling, and fiscal stress straining the ability of policy makers to address the policy challenges accompanying these developments, the salience of (re)connecting citizens with government takes on renewed urgency today. Nowhere is this more the case than in urban America, where so‐called global cities teeming with ethnic diversity and controlling a disproportionate amount of global business in the world economy confront profound citizen participation challenges, choices, and opportunities. In this installment ofTheory to Practice,the authors cull lessons from their 10‐year action theory–based assessment and participation in the city of Los Angeles’ neighborhood council experience. Comparing and contrasting their findings in this global city with those from related studies on participatory mechanisms and deliberative processes more generally, they offer six lessons for those seeking to build stronger democracy in urban areas, argue that further advances require a greater research focus on the longitudinal implementation of these efforts rather than just on their design, and contend that university researchers have a role to play in these efforts as long as they appreciate the paradoxical nature of their participation.

Expert e‐commentary by Brian Cook of Virginia Tech, Tina Nabatchi of Syracuse University, and John Thomas of Georgia State University on the perspectives and arguments culled from Los Angeles’ theory‐based participatory efforts can be found on thePARwebsite (go to aspanet.org, click on the link toPAR,and then on theTheory to Practicelink). These e‐commentaries are accompanied by the authors’ response and instructions on howPARreaders can join the exchange.
Are Your Disputants Insecure and Does It Matter? Attachment and Disputants' Speech during Mediation
Authors: Nelson Noa , Albeck‐Solomon Rivka , Ben‐Ari Rachel
Published: January 2011

An exploratory qualitative study explored the effect of attachment styles on disputants' speech during real‐life mediations. Drawing on attachment theory, we classified disputants as secure or insecure individuals using a self‐report attachment‐style questionnaire.

Subsequently, they entered their mediation sessions, where their entire speech was recorded. Qualitative analysis of their speech yielded consistent and sometimes striking differences that portrayed secure speech as remarkably more useful and enhancing toward resolution compared with insecure speech. The findings, presented with many examples, strongly indicate the relevance of attachment to the research of communication during mediation sessions. In this report, we also consider the practical implications of the association between attachment and disputants' behavior, emphasizing the role of mediators.
A 2‐year prospective study on immediate loading with fluoride‐modified implants in the edentulous mandible
Authors: Collaert Bruno , Wijnen Lieve , De Bruyn Hugo
Published: January 2011

Objectives: Chemically modified surfaces were introduced during the last decade to improve indications for implant treatment. The fluoride‐modified implant (Osseospeed®) was launched in 2004 and clinical studies suggest a more rapid bone formation and stronger bone to implant contact. However, limited clinical data are available on marginal bone loss and the outcome after >1 year under immediate loading conditions is not fully understood. Hence, the purpose of this prospective study was to present implant survival and marginal bone level data when fluoride‐modified implants are supporting a fully functional rehabilitation from the day after surgery in the completely edentulous mandible.

Materials and methods: Twenty‐five patients, completely edentulous in the mandible, were consecutively treated with five fluoride‐modified implants that were functionally loaded with a provisional screw retained restoration. Marginal bone loss was measured from day of surgery to 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. Implants were considered successful after 24 months if radiographic bone loss did not exceed 1 mm and no pain or mobility was caused under a torque of 20 N cm. Statistical analysis was carried out on both patient and implant levels.

Results: All implants survived and mean bone loss on implant level after 3, 6, 12 and 24 months was 0.14, 0.13, 0.11 and 0.11 mm, respectively. Bone loss was only statistically significant between baseline and 3 months (P<0.001) and remained unchanged afterward. None of the implants lost >1 mm of bone after 2 years. On the patient level, the mean bone loss after 2 years was 0.12 mm (SD 0.14; range −0.06 to 0.55) with probing pocket depth 2.45 mm (SD 0.43; range 1.3–3.1) and bleeding index 0.55% (SD 0.34; range 0–1).

Conclusion: Immediate loading of fluoride‐modified implants is a predictable treatment yielding a high survival and success rate after 2 years.

To cite this article:
 Collaert B, Wijnen L, De Bruyn H. A 2‐year prospective study on immediate loading with fluoride‐modified implants in the edentulous mandible. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 22, 2011; 1111–1116. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.02077.x
A modified in vitro stripping method to automate the calculation of geometry of corneocytes imaged with fluorescent microscopy: example of moisturizer treatment
Authors: Li Shuzheng , Guz Natalia V. , Sokolov Igor
Published: January 2011

Background/purpose: To develop a modification of the stripping method allowing quick automated processing of corneocyte samples to study human skin conditions. Although the previous scrubbing technique and stripping method can provide sufficient information about human corneocytes, they are either subject to artifacts or involve time‐consuming data processing.

Methods and Materials: In the first stage, an adhesive tape is used to collect corneocytes as in the regular stripping method. Then, a D‐squame skin indicator is used to divide the collected corneocytes into a lesser populated sample, in which more individual corneocytes can be observed with the help of fluorescent microscopy after dye staining. The method was applied to study the change of corneocytes after moisturizer (glycerin) treatment.

Results: The modified stripping method described allows the automated processing of the geometrical characteristics of corneocytes. Data for several hundreds of corneocytes can easily be collected. The analysis of glycerin treatment demonstrated a high sensitivity for the method. An average increase of the corneocyte area of 5.1% was found after 9 days of treatment (the accuracy of the method was 0.5%).

Conclusion: The method described is suitable for the automated data processing. It allows for the reliable detection of the expansion of the average area of corneocytes after 9 days of daily glycerin treatment.
Analysis of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor‐1, Integrin Beta3, Beta Fibrinogen, and Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Polymorphisms in Iranian Women with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Jeddi‐Tehrani Mahmood , Torabi Raheleh , Zarnani Amir H. , Mohammadzadeh Afsaneh , Arefi Soheila , Zeraati Hojjat , Akhondi Mohammad M. , Chamani‐Tabriz Leili , Idali Farah , Emami Shaghayegh , Zarei Saeed
Published: January 2011

Citation  Jeddi‐Tehrani M, Torabi R, Zarnani AH, Mohammadzadeh A, Arefi S, Zeraati H, Akhondi MM, Chamani‐Tabriz L, Idali F, Emami S, Zarei S. Analysis of plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1, integrin beta3, beta fibrinogen and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase polymorphisms in Iranian women with recurrent pregnancy loss. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 66: 149–156

Problem  To identify the associations of the plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) −675 4G/5G, beta fibrinogen (BF) −455G/A, integrin beta 3 (ITGB3) 1565T/C, and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677C/T and 1298A/C polymorphisms with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL).

Method of study  Polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) were performed to assess the frequency of five candidate genetic risk factors for RPL, and the frequencies of the polymorphisms were calculated and compared between case and control groups.

Results  The BF −455G/A, MTHFR 677C/T, and 1298A/C polymorphisms were found to be positively, and ITGB3 1565T/C polymorphism negatively, associated with RPL. Homozygosity but not heterozygosity for PAI‐1 −675 4G/5G polymorphism was significantly higher in patients with RPL than in the control group. The presence of both mutations of MTHFR genes highly increased the risk of RPL.

Conclusion  The data highlight the importance of thrombophilia screening in patients with RPL.
Helicobacter pylori and autoimmune diseases
Authors: Hasni S , Ippolito A , Illei GG
Published: January 2011

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 621–627

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a widely prevalent microbe, with between 50 and 80% of the population infected worldwide. Clinically, infection with H. pylori is commonly associated with peptic ulcer disease, but many of those infected remain asymptomatic. H. pylori has evolved a number of means to affect the host immune response and has been implicated in many diseases mitigated by immune dysregulation, such as immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), atrophic gastritis, and mucosa associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. Autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjogren’s syndrome, are the result of a dysregulated host immune system which targets otherwise healthy tissues. The exact etiology of autoimmune diseases is unclear, but it has long been suggested that exposure to certain environmental agents, such as viral and bacterial infection or chemical exposures, in genetically susceptible individuals may be the catalyst for the initiation of autoimmune processes. Because of its prevalence and ability to affect human immune function, many researchers have hypothesized that H. pylori might contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases. In this article, we review the available literature regarding the role of chronic H. pylori infection in various autoimmune disease states.
Comparison of television viewing between children with autism spectrum disorder and controls
Authors: Chonchaiya Weerasak , Nuntnarumit Prapasri , Pruksananonda Chandhita
Published: January 2011

Aim:  To examine the pattern and extent of television viewing in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared with typically developing controls and those with delayed language development (DLD).

Methods:  Fifty‐four individuals with ASD (mean age 2.56 ± 0.66 years) and 84 controls (mean age 2.43 ± 0.81 years) were enrolled. Fifty‐six individuals with DLD, who had language developmental levels similar to those with ASD, were enrolled in our previous study. Main outcome measures included onset and frequency of television viewing, in addition to the type of programme and whether a caregiver cowatched television.

Results:  Those with ASD began to watch television significantly earlier than controls (6.44 ± 6.35 vs. 12.41 ± 6.00 months of age, p ≤ 0.0001*) and spent more time watching television than those with DLD (4.60 ± 1.91 vs. 3.05 ± 1.90 h/day, p ≤ 0.0001*) and controls (4.60 ± 1.91 vs. 2.06 ± 1.21 h/day, p ≤ 0.0001*). Those with ASD appeared to watch more adult programmes than normal controls, and they were less likely to watch television with caregivers than both control groups.

Conclusion:  There is an earlier onset and higher frequency of television viewing in autistic children compared with children with typical development.
Understanding Small‐Molecule Binding to MDM2: Insights into Structural Effects of Isoindolinone Inhibitors from NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Riedinger Christiane , Noble Martin E. , Wright David J. , Mulks Florian , Hardcastle Ian R. , Endicott Jane A. , McDonnell James M.
Published: January 2011

The interaction between murine double minute (MDM2) and p53 is a major target in anticancer drug design. Several potent compound series, including the nutlins and spirooxindoles, have previously been established as high‐affinity antagonists of MDM2. In this paper, we describe the interaction of isoindolinone inhibitors with MDM2, as characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Isoindolinone inhibitors bind specifically to the MDM2 p53 binding site and exploit all sub‐pockets used by p53, nutlins and spirooxindoles. Furthermore, isoindolinones bind with low micromolar to high nanomolar affinities, with the best compound approaching the potency of nutlin‐3.
Regional analysis of the annual maximum daily rainfall in the province of Malaga (southern Spain) using the principal component analysis
Authors: García‐Marín A. P. , Ayuso‐Muñoz J. L. , Taguas‐Ruiz E. V. , Estevez J.
Published: January 2011

The flood and drought cycles suffered of old by the province of Malaga, the variability in the distribution of rainfall throughout the province and the reduced length of the data series make it of interest to carry out a regional analysis (RA) of the yearly maximum daily precipitation data to obtain appropriate rainfall quantiles. By taking these maximum precipitations values from 72 weather stations, and their physiographic parameters latitude and altitude, four regions with similar rainfall patterns have been determined by the principal component analysis statistical technique. Then, carrying out an RA of the yearly maximum daily precipitations for each of the regions discriminated, it was observed that three of them were homogeneous for the parameter being studied. In those homogeneous regions that grouped data of different stations but close rainfall pattern, frequency curves could be calculated for several return periods by means of the functions that best fit the data of each region. With these regional curves, it has been possible to obtain more accurate values of the maximum daily quantiles for each of the stations analysed than through the conventional local frequency analysis.
The Vitamin D Debate: Translating Controlled Experiments into Reality for Human Sun Exposure Times
Authors: Webb Ann R. , Kift Richard , Berry Jacqueline L. , Rhodes Lesley E.
Published: January 2011

Exposure to sunlight, specifically the ultraviolet radiation, has both positive and negative health effects. Maximizing the benefits (vitamin D synthesis) while minimizing the damage is a multifaceted problem in which many of the elements are poorly quantified. Here we show how rigorously conducted large sample size laboratory studies of the effect of ultraviolet radiation dose on vitamin D status can be applied to real‐life situations. This was achieved by modeling the radiation incident on different surfaces for different solar locations, and equating with the controlled exposures in the laboratory studies. Results from both model and experimental data show that relatively short exposures of a modest amount of unprotected skin to summer sunlight in northern climes, on a regular basis during lunchtime hours, increases vitamin D to sufficiency status (≥20 ng mL−1) in the white Caucasian population. While both sun exposure conditions and human skin responses are variable in real life, these quantitative findings provide a guide for authorities devising sunlight exposure recommendations.
Cryptococcosis: update and emergence ofCryptococcus gattii
Authors: Lester Sally J. , Malik Richard , Bartlett Karen H. , Duncan Colleen G.
Published: January 2011

Abstract:Cryptococcosis is a fungal disease that occurs throughout the world. Recent reclassification ofCryptococcusspecies along with a change in the distribution pattern has prompted reevaluation of the organism and the diseases caused by this pathogen. This review highlights the emergence ofCryptococcus gattiias a primary pathogen in North America and summarizes our current understanding of the disease in mammals and birds.
Infrared photostimulation of the crista ampullaris
Authors: Rajguru Suhrud M. , Richter Claus‐Peter , Matic Agnella I. , Holstein Gay R. , Highstein Stephen M. , Dittami Gregory M. , Rabbitt Richard D.
Published: January 2011

Non‐technical summary  It has been shown previously that application of short pulses of optical energy at infrared wavelengths can evoke action potentials in neurons and mechanical contraction in cardiac muscle cells. Optical stimuli are particularly attractive because of the ability to deliver focused energy through tissue without physical contact or electrical charge injection. Here we demonstrate efficacy of pulsed infrared radiation to stimulate balance organs of the inner ear, specifically to modulate the pattern of neural signals transmitted from the angular motion sensing semicircular canals to the brain. The ability to control action potentials demonstrates the potential of pulsed optical stimuli for basic science investigations and future therapeutic applications.
Atomic-scale engineering of future high-k dynamic random access memory dielectrics: The example of partial Hf substitution by Ti in BaHfO3
Authors: Dudek P. , Lupina G. , Kozłowski G. , Zaumseil P. , Bauer J. , Fursenko O. , Dabrowski J. , Schmidt R. , Lippert G. , Müssig H.-J. , Schroeder T. , Schmeißer D. , Zschech E.
Published: January 2011

Controlled substitution of Hf4+ by Ti4+ ions in thin BaHfO3 was investigated in view of future dynamic random access memory (DRAM) applications. The 50% substitution of Hf ions reduces the crystallization temperature by about 200 °C with respect to BaHfO3 layers making the BaHf0.5Ti0.5O3 layers compatible with DRAM processing. The resulting cubic BaHf0.5Ti0.5O3 dielectrics show k∼90 after rapid thermal annealing at 700 °C which is three times higher than for BaHfO3 at similar temperatures. Leakage current values of 4×10−5 A/cm2 at 0.5 V for Pt/BaHf0.5Ti0.5O3/TiN capacitors with capacitance equivalent thickness <0.8 nm are achieved. Synchrotron-based photoelectron spectroscopy in combination with nanoscopic conductive atomic force microscopy measurements reveals that the use of high work function electrodes and homogeneous film deposition techniques is crucial for controlling the leakage current.
Quantitative simulation of ion-beam induced deposition of nanostructures
Authors: Ebm Christoph , Hobler Gerhard , Waid Simon , Wanzenboeck Heinz D.
Published: January 2011

Gas-assisted etching and deposition with focused ion beams are unique and flexible methods for the fabrication of nanostructures. To understand and improve these processes the ability to accurately simulate and predict the resulting structures is very important. In this paper we present a nonlocal recoil-based algorithm for topography simulation of ion-beam induced gas-assisted deposition. We have fabricated flying roof like overhanging structures and found very good agreement between simulation and experiment. These structures cannot be explained with a local model. Furthermore, we demonstrate a considerable influence of the beam diameter on the resulting structure by comparing otherwise identical simulations with different beam diameter.
Signals from the Nucleus: Activation of NF-κB by Cytosolic ATM in the DNA Damage Response
Authors: Hadian Kamyar , Krappmann Daniel
Published: January 2011

The kinase ATM has a cytosolic scaffolding function in the activation of NF-κB in response to DNA damage.
Controlling Inflammation
Authors: Vinson Valda
Published: January 2011

Substitution of a destabilizing sequence has allowed crystallization of a key enzyme of the inflammatory response.
Biomarkers to guide perioperative management
Authors: Edwards Mark , Whittle John , Ackland Gareth L
Published: January 2011

Stratifying preoperative risk and guiding perioperative therapy objectively has acquired critical importance, given robust data demonstrating that morbidity following non-cardiac surgery confers substantially increased risk of death, even beyond hospital discharge. The development of useful perioperative biomarkers depends fundamentally on both prospective morbidity data that enable the identification of higher risk patients as well as the translational understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms underlying postoperative organ dysfunction, the development of which may be specific to the perioperative environment. The emergence of cardiac insufficiency, rather than cardiac ischaemia, as the dominant factor associated with excess risk of prolonged postoperative morbidity has promoted the application of biomarkers used commonly in cardiovascular medicine. Several novel, organ specific biomarkers offer potential perioperative application. Nevertheless, common tests/biomarkers that are widely available do provide valuable, objective information that is perhaps under-utilised perioperatively. Despite significant challenges, perioperative medicine presents exciting—arguably unique—opportunities for novel biomarker development.
Late Holocene salt marsh development under a regime of rapid relative-sea-level rise: Chezzetcook Inlet, Nova Scotia. Implications for the interpretation of palaeomarsh sequences
Authors: Jennings S. C. , Carter R. W. G. , Orford J. D.
Published: January 2011

Pollen data illustrating a 2000-year record of salt marsh development have been obtained from a variety of outer-estuarine settings in close proximity to the present gravel-dominated coastal barriers at Chezzetcook Inlet, Nova Scotia. The relationship between the biostratigraphic and lithostratigraphic data and relative-sea-level movement is complex. In the outer estuary, temporal and spatial changes to the floral and sedimentological composition of the salt marsh reflect principally processes of estuarine and back-barrier sedimentation that resulted in steep environmental gradients and the development of regressive marsh–sediment complexes, despite a relative-sea-level rise of up to 3.8 mm/a during the late Holocene. Our results contrast with those from the inner estuary at Chezzetcook Inlet, where salt marsh has developed only over the last 200 years as a result of sediment inwash due to European land use, and followed a prolonged episode (approx. 5000 years) of tidal flat conditions. This contrast highlights differences in sediment input and distribution between the outer and inner estuary.
U–Pb geochronology of deformation and metamorphism across a central transect of the Early Proterozoic Torngat Orogen, North River map area, Labrador
Authors: Bertrand Jean-Michel , Roddick J. Christopher , Kranendonk Martin J. van , Ermanovics Ingo
Published: January 2011

The Early Proterozoic Torngat Orogen resulted from the oblique collision of the Archean Nain and southeastern Rae provinces and evolved in four stages: (0) deposition of platformal supracrustal assemblages followed by subduction-related arc magmatism in the margin of the Rae Province; (I) crustal thickening and nappe tectonics; (II) sinistral transpression and formation of the Abloviak shear zone; (III) uplift on steeply dipping, east-verging mylonites along the eastern orogenic front.U–Pb geochronology on zircon and monazite from major rock units and syntectonic intrusions indicates that arc magmatism at ca. 1880 Ma was followed by 40 Ma. of deformation and high-grade metamorphism from ca. 1860 to 1820. Subsequent uplift and final cooling occurred ca. 1795 – 1770 Ma. Several ages of mineral growth that correspond to distinct structural and metamorphic events have been recognized: (1) 1858 – 1853 Ma zircon and monazite dates are interpreted as the minimum age of stage I and peak metamorphic conditions; (2) 1844 Ma zircons from anatectic granitoids in the Tasiuyak gneiss complex (TGC), syntectonic with stage II deformation, are interpreted to date the formation of the Abloviak shear zone; (3) 1837 Ma magmatic zircons from an intrusive granite vein deformed along the western contact of the TGC represent a discrete intrusive event; (4) 1825 – 1822 Ma metamorphic overgrowths and newly grown zircons in granitic veins from the western portion of the orogen (Lac Lomier complex) represent a period of renewed transpressional deformation; (5) 1806 Ma magmatic zircons from a post-stage II granite emplaced along the eastern edge of the Abloviak shear zone defines the transition between stage II and stage III events; (6) 1794 – 1773 Ma zircons from leucogranites and pegmatites that are associated with uplift of the orogen (stage III). 1780 – 1740 Ma dates for monazite and a 40Ar/39Ar hornblende age correspond to the latest stages of uplift and cooling of the orogen.
Pontiac metavolcanic rocks within the Cadillac tectonic zone, McWatters, Abitibi Belt, Quebec
Authors: Morin David , Jébrak Michel , Bardoux Marc , Goulet Normand
Published: January 2011

The McWatters metavolcanic rocks are structurally bounded lenses within the Cadillac tectonic zone on the southern boundary of the Abitibi greenstone belt. They comprise komatiite, tholeiitic basalt and gabbro, and calc-alkaline andesitic lavas and volcaniclastic rocks cut by calc-alkaline dioritic and lamprophyric dykes. The McWatters basalts are mid-ocean-ridge basalt type tholeiites exhibiting low incompatible trace element contents and [La/Yb]N < 1. They may have formed via relatively high degree partial melting of a rare-earth element depleted mantle source. The andesites exhibit chondrite-normalized trace-element patterns with light-rare-earth and large-ion lithophile element enrichments and negative Nb and Ti anomalies, comparable to those of subduction-related calc-alkaline andesites. McWatters units are distinct from nearby Blake River Group rocks, despite comparable lithological assemblages and some common geochemical characteristics. The McWatters basalts exhibit lower Ti/Y, Zr/Y, and La/Yb than the Blake River tholeiites, whereas the McWatters andesites display lower Ti/Zr and higher Zr/Y than the Blake River calc-alkaline units. The McWatters tholeiites can be correlated with northern Pontiac Group tholeiitic units based on similar trace-element ratios and parallel rare-earth-element patterns. Thus, the McWatters tholeiites represent Pontiac rocks, underthrust beneath the southern Abitibi belt and appearing as isolated and retrograded lenses in the Cadillac tectonic zone. They may represent the remnants of an ocean basin that once separated the southern Abitibi greenstone belt from the Pontiac Subprovince.
Intraglacial volcanism in the Wells Gray–Clearwater volcanic field, east-central British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Hickson Catherine J. , Moore James G. , Calk Lewis , Metcalfe Paul
Published: January 2011

Small-volume, subaerial, subaqueous and subglacial basaltic eruptions occurred in the Wells Gray–Clearwater area during Quaternary time. Part of this time, significant thicknesses of glacial ice were present. Dating of intraglacial volcanic features corroborates other evidence of an Early Pleistocene, Cordilleran-wide ice sheet. Of the intraglacial volcanoes investigated, three were studied in detail and of these, two probably erupted during the Fraser glaciation (11–20 ka), when maximum ice level exceeded 2100 m elevation. Major-element and sulphur concentrations were measured in glass from the volcanoes to provide insight into vent conditions at the time of eruption. Hyalo Ridge (2102 m elevation, whole-rock K–Ar age of 0.02 ± 0.01 Ma) is a small volcanic edifice capped by lava flows with coherent pillowed lavas and interbedded hyaloclastite exposed over nearly 400 m altitude on its east flank. Low sulphur content (<0.03 wt.%) in pillow rim glasses indicates that the lavas are degassed. It is interpreted that the vent built above the water (or ice) surface then fed lava flows that crossed a shoreline and produced pillowed flows. Pyramid Mountain is a volcanic cone 240 m high, comprised of glassy, vesicular, lapilli-tuff breccia. The highly alkalic glass contains 0.1 wt.% S (considered high), and indicates a high original volatile content and drastic quenching, probably during phreatomagmatic eruption from a meltwater-flooded vent. East of the Clearwater River a sequence of massive pillowed flows and pillow joint-block breccias is exposed from 880 to 1320 m elevation (0.27 ± 0.05 Ma). The vent location is unknown. Moderate S content (0.040–0.055 wt.%) indicates that the lavas were erupted in shallow water and are largely degassed. The S content of glass in dykes cutting the pillow breccias is low. The dykes are interpreted as lava that has flowed laterally or down into cracks.
A comparison of the receiver structure beneath stations of the Canadian National Seismograph Network
Authors: Cassidy John F.
Published: January 2011

Three-component broadband data from the recently deployed Canadian National Seismograph Network provide a new opportunity to examine the structure of the crust and upper mantle beneath the Canadian landmass. Receiver function analysis is an ideal method to use with this data set, as it can provide constraints on the S-velocity structure beneath each station of this seismograph network. This analysis method is particularly useful in that it provides site-specific information (i.e., within 5–15 km of the station), low-velocity layers can be identified, and it is possible to examine structure to upper mantle depths. In this study, receiver functions were computed for each of the 19 stations that made up the seismograph network in June 1994. Five stations, sampling a variety of tectonic environments, including the Appalachian Orogen, the Canadian Shield, the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin, and the Cascadia subduction zone, were chosen for detailed modelling. The results presented here are the first estimates of the S-velocity structure beneath these five stations. For those stations where comparisons can be made with seismic reflection and refraction results, there is excellent agreement. In eastern Canada, simple receiver functions and clear Moho Ps conversions at most stations indicate a relatively transparent crust and a Moho depth of 40–45 km. In northwestern Canada, Moho Ps phases indicate a crustal thickness of 33–38 km. Beneath Inuvik, Northwest Territories, the Moho is interpreted as two velocity steps separated in depth by 5 km, and an upper mantle low-velocity zone is near 47 km depth. In western Canada, the data indicate a mid-crustal low-velocity zone beneath Edmonton. The Moho of the subducting Juan de Fuca plate is interpreted at 52 km depth beneath southern Vancouver Island. Several stations exhibiting complex receiver functions warrant further study. They include stations at Schefferville, Quebec, in the Canadian Shield; Deer Lake, Newfoundland, on the boundary of the Grenville Province and the Appalachian Orogen; and Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, at the intersection of the Churchill and Slave provinces and the Western Plains.
Upper Homerian (Wenlock, Silurian) graptolites and graptolite biostratigraphy, Arctic Archipelago, Canada
Authors: Lenz Alfred C.
Published: January 2011

Integration of graptolite data obtained from isolated and flattened material from Arctic Canada permits the recognition of three upper Homerian biostratigraphic zones. These, from oldest to youngest, are the Pristiograptus dubius – Gothograptus "nassa" interval Biozone, Colonograptus? praedeubeli – Colonograptus? deubeli Biozone, and Colonograptus? ludensis Biozone. Species of flattened graptolites described in this study include C.? deubeli, C.? ludensis, C.? praedeubeli, Colonograptus? schedidoneus,Lobograptus ? angustus n.sp., Lobograptus? claudiae, Lobograptus? sherrardae, Plectograptus macilentus, Agastograptus clathrospinosus, and Gothograptus "nassa." With only a few exceptions, the zone-by-zone diversity of monograptid and plectograptine graptolites of the Canadian Arctic is remarkably similar to that elsewhere.
A New Global Optimization Algorithm for Solving Generalized Geometric Programming
Authors: Liu San-Yang , Wang Chun-Feng , Liu Li-Xia
Published: January 2011

A global optimization algorithm for solving generalized geometric
programming (GGP) problem is developed based on a new linearization
technique. Furthermore, in order to improve the convergence speed of this algorithm,
a new pruning technique is proposed, which can be used to cut away a
large part of the current investigated region in which the global optimal solution
does not exist. Convergence of this algorithm is proved, and some experiments
are reported to show the feasibility of the proposed algorithm.