bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraseasonal response of the northern Indian Ocean coastal waveguide to the Madden‐Julian Oscillation
Authors: Vialard J. , Shenoi S. S. C. , McCreary J. P. , Shankar D. , Durand F. , Fernando V. , Shetye S. R.
Published: July 2009

A new observational record of upper‐ocean currents at 15°N on the western coast of India is dominated by intraseasonal (55–110 day) variations of alongshore currents, whereas sea level at the same location has a clear seasonal signal. These observations can be interpreted within the framework of linear wave theory. At 15°N, the minimum period for planetary waves is ∼90 day, meaning that intraseasonal energy is largely trapped at the coast in the form of poleward‐propagating Kelvin waves, while lower‐frequency signals associated with the annual cycle can radiate offshore as planetary waves. This dynamical difference results in a steeper offshore slope of sea level at intraseasonal timescale, and thus stronger geostrophic alongshore currents. A consequence is that the alongshore currents are in‐phase with intraseasonally‐filtered sea level near the coast, and a gridded satellite product is shown to reproduce the current variations reasonably well. The intraseasonal current variations along the west coast of India are part of basin‐scale sea‐level fluctuations of the Northern Indian Ocean equatorial and coastal waveguides. The wind forcing associated with this basin scale circulation closely matches surface wind signals associated with the Madden‐Julian Oscillation.
Entrepreneurship and Government Policy in Former Soviet Republics: Belarus and Estonia Compared
Authors: Smallbone David , Welter Friederike
Published: July 2009

In this paper we analyse the role of government in relation to the development of entrepreneurship in countries where private business activity was illegal until the beginning of the 1990s. By focusing on Estonia and Belarus we are concerned with countries with an ostensibly similar political heritage, yet with contrasting experiences during the post-Soviet period. Various authors have argued the need for entrepreneurship research to acknowledge the heterogeneity of environmental conditions, outcomes, and behaviours that exist with respect to entrepreneurship. Government policies and actions are a key element contributing to the heterogeneity of external conditions in which entrepreneurship occurs and are thus part of social embeddedness. The findings have implications for policy makers in transition and developing countries by emphasising the variety of ways in which the state can influence the nature and pace of private business development and the central role of institutional behaviour in this process. The findings also have implications for researchers interested in extending analysis of entrepreneurship into a wide range of business environments.
Pseudo-Outbreak of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Due to Cross-Reactivity of Surfactant and a Rapid Immunoassay
Authors: Gastelum Dawn Terashita , Peterson Ashley , Mascola Laurene , Dassey David , Camargo Elizabeth
Published: July 2009

We describe a pseudo-outbreak of respiratory syncytial virus infection in a neonatal intensive care unit at the White Memorial Medical Center in Los Angeles, California. Investigation of a reported cluster of cases in the early fall of 2007 identified false-positive results due to cross-reactivity between surfactant and a rapid immunoassay. This highlights the need for diagnosis confirmation, especially during periods of low disease prevalence.
Rhesus Disease in Pregnancy
Authors: Harrison Faye , Gardner Alice
Published: July 2009

Rhesus incompatibility between mother and foetus can, if undetected and untreated, lead to Rhesus disease of the newborn: a haemolytic state which can be fatal. Screening in pregnancy allows routine prevention of Rhesus disease. Post-delivery administration of anti-D immunoglobulin to Rhesus-negative women began in the UK in 1969. As a result, the deaths attributed to RhD alloimmunization fell from 46/100 000 births before 1969 to 1.6/100000 in 1990. However, antenatal procedures and presentations commonly encountered in primary care may cause the exposure of a Rhesus-negative mother to Rhesus antigens. Awareness of Rhesus disease in routine and emergency antenatal care is therefore essential.
Evolution, development and intentional control of imitation
Authors: Heyes Cecilia
Published: July 2009

Imitation is at the heart of social cognitive neuroscience. It is a neurocognitive process that bridges the gap between minds; powers cognitive and social development; promotes cooperation and well-being; and provides a channel of cultural inheritance. The papers in this theme issue review cutting-edge research on imitation and report original data using all of the principal methodologies, including comparative, developmental, cognitive-behavioural and neurological techniques. This paper introduces these interdisciplinary contributions and, proposing that the field currently has four inter-related foci—correspondence, control, cooperation and cultural inheritance—offers an overview of the state-of-the-art in research on the mechanisms and functions of imitation.
Imitation as an inheritance system
Authors: Shea Nicholas
Published: July 2009

What is the evolutionary significance of the various mechanisms of imitation, emulation and social learning found in humans and other animals? This paper presents an advance in the theoretical resources for addressing that question, in the light of which standard approaches from the cultural evolution literature should be refocused. The central question is whether humans have an imitation-based inheritance system—a mechanism that has the evolutionary function of transmitting behavioural phenotypes reliably down the generations. To have the evolutionary power of an inheritance system, an imitiation-based mechanism must meet a range of demanding requirements. The paper goes on to review the evidence for and against the hypothesis that there is indeed an imitation-based inheritance system in humans.
An Evolutionary Perspective on the Importance of Community Relations for Quality of Life
Authors: Grinde Bjørn
Published: July 2009

The evolutionary perspective is relevant for the study of quality of life in that the brain, including its capacity for positive and negative states of mind, has been shaped by the forces of evolution. The present text uses this perspective to discuss three questions related to the observation that human interactions are a particular important factor for well-being: (1) What is known about the inherent nature of our social propensities? (2) Is the present situation responsible for a suboptimal quality of life? (3) Are there alternatives to the organization of mainstream Western society? Based on this discussion, the question is raised as to whether it is possible to suggest improvements. Briefly, it seems possible to create conditions that enhance social relations and to the extent that happiness is considered an important objective, this is a relevant endeavor.
An integrative computational model for intestinal tissue renewal
Authors: Van Leeuwen I. M. M. , Mirams G. R. , Walter A. , Fletcher A. , Murray P. , Osborne J. , Varma S. , Young S. J. , Cooper J. , Doyle B. , Pitt‐Francis J. , Momtahan L. , Pathmanathan P. , Whiteley J. P. , Chapman S. J. , Gavaghan D. J. , Jensen O. E. , King J. R. , Maini P. K. , Waters S. L. , Byrne H. M.
Published: July 2009

Objectives:  The luminal surface of the gut is lined with a monolayer of epithelial cells that acts as a nutrient absorptive engine and protective barrier. To maintain its integrity and functionality, the epithelium is renewed every few days. Theoretical models are powerful tools that can be used to test hypotheses concerning the regulation of this renewal process, to investigate how its dysfunction can lead to loss of homeostasis and neoplasia, and to identify potential therapeutic interventions. Here we propose a new multiscale model for crypt dynamics that links phenomena occurring at the subcellular, cellular and tissue levels of organisation.

Methods:  At the subcellular level, deterministic models characterise molecular networks, such as cell‐cycle control and Wnt signalling. The output of these models determines the behaviour of each epithelial cell in response to intra‐, inter‐ and extracellular cues. The modular nature of the model enables us to easily modify individual assumptions and analyse their effects on the system as a whole.

Results:  We perform virtual microdissection and labelling‐index experiments, evaluate the impact of various model extensions, obtain new insight into clonal expansion in the crypt, and compare our predictions with recent mitochondrial DNA mutation data.

Conclusions:  We demonstrate that relaxing the assumption that stem‐cell positions are fixed enables clonal expansion and niche succession to occur. We also predict that the presence of extracellular factors near the base of the crypt alone suffices to explain the observed spatial variation in nuclear beta‐catenin levels along the crypt axis.
Carp (Cyprinus carpio) oils obtained by fishmeal and ensilage processes: characteristics and lipid profiles
Authors: Crexi Valéria T. , Souza‐Soares Leonor A. , Pinto Luiz A. A.
Published: July 2009

Fish oil is an important source of long‐chain ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid. The common carp (Cyprinus carp) is a major fish species in world aquaculture production. This study aimed towards obtaining carp viscera oil by ensilage and fishmeal processes. Characteristics of crude oils obtained were also compared with oil extracted by Bligh and Dyer methods. Crude oils obtained by the three processes resulted in significant difference (P < 0.05) for free fatty acids, peroxide, thiobarbituric acid and Lovibond colour values; however, iodine and saponification values were not significantly affected (P > 0.05). Recovery yield of crude oils was approximately 85% in relation to carp viscera oil. Carp crude oils obtained by the ensilage and fishmeal processes resulted in high unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acid contents (67.4%), and ω3/ω6 ratios around 1.15. These oils are applicable in fish diets; however, crude oils require refinement for human consumption.
Pretibial epidermolysis bullosa: is this case a new subtype with loss of types IV and VII collagen?
Authors: Lee Hong‐sun , Park Kun , Son Sook‐ja , Song Kye‐yong , Kim Seong Eon
Published: July 2009

Pretibial epidermolysis bullosa (PEB) is an extremely rare subtype of dominant dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DDEB), in which recurrent blistering with scarring predominantly involves the pretibial skin. Nail dystrophy, albopapuloid lesions, and hypertrophic scars may also occur. In PEB, immunohistochemical and electron microscopic studies demonstrate the complete or partial loss of the anchoring fibril (AF) in the basement membrane zone, suggesting disturbed synthesis or excessive degradation of collagen VII, the main component of AF. Interestingly, we report a case of PEB with unusual results of joint loss of types IV and VII collagen.
Cutaneous manifestations of Corynebacterium jeikeium sepsis
Authors: Olson Jonathan M. , Nguyen Viet Q. , Yoo Jane , Kuechle Melanie K.
Published: July 2009

Corynebacterium jeikeium is a rare but increasingly important cause of septicemia in neutropenic patients that can present with characteristic cutaneous findings. A 61‐year‐old man with myelodysplastic syndrome developed C. jeikeium sepsis and an erythematous papular eruption while neutropenic from induction chemotherapy. A review of the English language literature shows only six reported cases of hemorrhagic or erythematous papular eruption in C. jeikeium sepsis. The case is presented with an updated literature review of the history, risk factors, and treatment.
Intramuscular hemangiomas of the extremities: report of six cases
Authors: Ranero‐Juárez Alejandra Guadalupe , Rosales‐Galindo Víctor Manuel , León‐Takahashi Alberto Mitsuo , Arenas‐Guzmán Roberto , García Carlos
Published: July 2009

Background  Hemangiomas are benign endothelial cell‐derived tumors that are present in 1–2% of newborns. They are most frequent in females. Eighty per cent are located in the head and neck region. Intramuscular hemangiomas represent 0.8% of all cases. They are characterized by rapid endothelial growth. Treatment is indicated for lesions that have an organic or visceral location or those that present with deformities.

Methods  Six cases of intramuscular hemangioma are presented. They were collected during the period June 2003 to November 2005 from all surgical cases seen at the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Hospital General “Dr Manuel Gea Gonzalez,” Mexico City, Mexico. Their clinical appearance, treatment, and outcomes are discussed.

Results  There were five women and one man with a mean age of 24.6 years (15–44 years). Two hemangiomas were located on the upper extremities and four on the lower extremities. All six patients were treated by surgical resection. Four cavernous hemangiomas were revealed during microscopic examination. At 1–3 years of follow‐up, there were no recurrences and the functional and aesthetic results were good.

Conclusions  Intramuscular hemangiomas are rare. Lesions of the extremities are even rarer. Surgical excision in the six cases described here resulted in cure with good functional and cosmetic outcomes.
A fraction of deep vascular birthmarks are true deep hemangiomas of infancy
Authors: Lee Seok‐Jong , Shin Dong Ju , Kim Ho Youn , Lee Weon Ju , Kim Do Won , Chung Ho Yun , Baik Seung Kug , Lee Jong Min , Huh Seung , Yoon Ghil Suk
Published: July 2009

Background  Deeply‐located vascular birthmarks have been traditionally regarded as being identical to a deep type of hemangioma of infancy (HOI). However, there is increasing evidence that some venous malformations also mimic these deep type of HOIs clinically. This study investigates how many, if not all, deep vascular birthmarks are deep type HOIs.

Methods  Nineteen cases were selected on the basis of the clinical features of deeply‐located vascular birthmarks. Hematoxylin‐eosin slides were reviewed and immunohistochemistries were performed using CD31, D2‐40 and GLUT1 to confirm diagnoses before they were compared with the clinicoradiologic review by specialists other than dermatopathologists.

Results  Only 4 patients out of a total of 19 cases were strongly positive for GLUT1 staining and turned out to be true deep HOIs. The remaining were comprised of 6 venous malformations (31.6%), 3 lymphatic malformations (15.8%), 1 glomangioma (5.3%) and 5 tufted angiomas (26.3%).

Conclusion  It was demonstrated that all deeply‐located vascular birthmarks are not true deep HOIs. It is recommended that diagnosis for HOI be carried out cautiously earlier in life using GLUT1 in addition to clinical features. This would help prevent patients from being misled by anticipating the spontaneous involution in all deeply‐located vascular birthmarks.
Sporadic dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa with albopapuloid and prurigo‐ and folliculitis‐like lesions
Authors: Fan Yi‐Ming , Yang Yan‐Ping , Li Shun‐Fan
Published: July 2009

A case of sporadic dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) with albopapuloid and prurigo‐ and folliculitis‐like lesions is reported. Histopathology of the scalp biopsy showed hyperkeratosis, a subepidermal cleft near the orifice of a hair follicle, dermal fibrosis, and a moderate perivascular and perifollicular lymphohistiocytic inflammatory cell infiltrate in the papillary dermis, without neutrophilic infiltrate in the orifice of the hair follicle. It is uncertain whether the present case should be classified as DEB pruriginosa or represents a new subtype of DEB.
Efficacy of dioic acid compared with hydroquinone in the treatment of melasma
Authors: Tirado‐Sánchez Andrés , Santamaría‐Román Aleida , Ponce‐Olivera Rosa María
Published: July 2009

Background  Melasma is a common disorder of pigmentation characterized by relatively symmetric, brown or gray–brown patches on sun‐exposed facial areas. Hydroquinone, the most effective agent in melasma, is known to irritate the skin, and so new alternatives in the treatment of melasma are required. We sought to assess the clinical response of a new depigmenting agent in melasma.

Methods  Ninety‐six Mexican female patients with melasma were enrolled in this open, comparative, 12‐week study. The patients received 1% dioic acid cream (twice daily) or 2% hydroquinone cream (twice daily).

Results  There was a significant difference in the Melasma Area Severity Index (MASI) scores from baseline to the end of the study using treatment with dioic acid (baseline, 14.52 3.4; after 12 weeks of treatment, 6.05 ± 1.2; P = 0.001) and hydroquinone (baseline, 15.22 ± 2.4; after 12 weeks of treatment, 6.34 ± 1.3; P = 0.001); however, there were no significant differences between treatments (baseline, P = 0.311; after 12 weeks of treatment, P = 0.287). The side‐effects were similar with both medications; however, pruritus was more common in patients using hydroquinone.

Conclusions  Dioic acid is an effective and highly tolerated skin product, although further controlled, blind, multicenter studies are required to support these results.
5‐Fluorouracil superficial peel for multiple actinic keratoses
Authors: Bagatin Ediléia , Teixeira Solange P. , Hassun Karime M. , Pereira Taíse , Michalany Nilceo S. , Talarico Sergio
Published: July 2009

Background  Chronically photodamaged skin usually presents with multiple, widespread, actinic keratoses (AKs), and treatment of the entire affected area is recommended.

Methods  We report our experience with a combination of Jessner’s solution or 70% glycolic acid (GA) with 5% 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) solution for superficial pulse peeling used in the treatment of widespread AKs in 31 patients. Pulse peelings were performed at biweekly intervals. The endpoint for treatment was complete or maximum clearance of the lesions at clinical evaluation. Pre‐ and post‐skin biopsy and histopathologic examination were performed in three patients for the purpose of demonstrating the pulse peel effects.

Results  All patients achieved a satisfactory result, including the complete regression, or at least 80% clearing, of AK lesions and an overall improvement of photodamaged skin.

Conclusion  We consider this superficial 5‐FU pulse peel to be a safe, well‐tolerated, very effective, and highly inexpensive therapeutic option for the treatment of multiple, diffuse AKs. Its benefit/cost ratio will be of interest to public health services, mainly in developing countries.
Genetic diversity and relatedness of rice cultivars resistant to straighthead disorder
Authors: Agrama Hesham A. , Yan WenGui
Published: July 2009

With 4 figures and 3 tables

Straighthead, a physiological disorder of rice (Oryza sativa L.), has been reported in numerous rice‐growing countries for its severe impact on yield reduction. Genetic diversity, relatedness and structure of parental germplasm are important for breeders to design strategies in breeding programmes. We analysed 1002 rice accessions that were sampled from the USDA core collection, evaluated for straighthead and genotyped with 72 molecular markers. Forty‐two accessions were resistant to straighthead with no yield reduction under severe infestation. The resistant cultivars originated from 15 countries in 10 geographic regions worldwide. The accessions had great diversification indicated by 15 phenotypic characteristics including all types of grain and cooking quality. The number of alleles averaged 5.9, and the 72 molecular markers were highly informative among the 42 resistant accessions. Thirty resistant accessions were identified as indica type and were clearly classified in two groups. Ten resistant cultivars were identified as temperate japonica and the other two were positioned between temperate and tropical japonica rice. Breeders worldwide could use these findings on phenotypic diversification and genetic relatedness among the straighthead resistant accessions in order to make germplasm choices for transferring straighthead resistance to their local cultivars, serving various needs on grain, cooking quality and genetic classification in their programmes.
A case of melanotic desmoplastic ganglioglioma
Authors: Antonelli Manila , Acerno Stefania , Baldoli Cristina , Terreni Maria Rosaria , Giangaspero Felice
Published: July 2009

We describe a case of desmoplastic infantile ganglioglioma (DIG) in a 9‐month‐old boy located in the temporal lobe. Grossly the tumor was brown and superficially located. Histologically the tumor contained pigment in numerous neoplastic cells, shown to be melanosomal melanin by ultrastructural examination. Pigmented neoplasms have been reported at various sites in the central and peripheral nervous system. Previous reports on pigmented neuroepithelial tumors include neoplasms containing melanin, while others have contained neuromelanin and or lipofuscin. This case represents the first description of pigmented neoplastic cells in DIG, enlarging the spectrum of pigmented primary CNS tumors.
On Future Household Structure
Authors: Alho Juha , Keilman Nico
Published: July 2009

We develop a method for computing probabilistic household forecasts which quantifies uncertainty in the future number of households of various types in a country. A probabilistic household forecast helps policy makers, planners and other forecast users in the fields of housing, energy, social security etc. in taking appropriate decisions, because some household variables are more uncertain than others. Deterministic forecasts traditionally do not quantify uncertainty. We apply the method to data from Norway. We find that predictions of future numbers of married couples, cohabiting couples and one-person households are more certain than those of lone parents and other private households. Our method builds on an existing method for computing probabilistic population forecasts, combining such a forecast with a random breakdown of the population according to household position (single, cohabiting, living with a spouse, living alone etc.). In this application, uncertainty in the total numbers of households of different types derives primarily from random shares, rather than uncertain future population size. A similar method could be applied to obtain probabilistic forecasts for other divisions of the population, such as household size, health or disability status, region of residence and labour market status.
Integration, Participation, Identity: Immigrant Associations in the Province of Milan
Authors: Caselli Marco
Published: July 2009

The paper presents some results from a multi‐year research project on immigrant associations in the province of Milan, Italy. The analysis yields numerous issues for reflection and recurrent features of particular significance. The first is the fact that for all the associations surveyed, their main goal and the essential reason for their existence was the desire to integrate their community of membership into the host society. However, such integration did not consist in a desire to be assimilated into Italian society. Quite the opposite: the majority of the associations studied were wholly committed to maintaining ‐‐ and sometimes rediscovering ‐‐ the identity and culture of their reference community. The second main feature is that immigrant associations are crucial nodes in a dense network of relations involving numerous actors of very different kinds: the immigrants themselves, other immigrant associations, third‐sector organizations, and the local authorities. The third and final important issue concerns the representativeness of immigrant associations: whether, that is, they can be considered the legitimate representatives of the community of membership.
Workers’ Remittances to India: An Examination of Transfer Cost and Efficiency
Authors: Singh Bhupal
Published: July 2009

Regarding the time efficiency of remittance transfer channels to India, the evidence suggests that traditional banking instruments are relatively inefficient as compared to the new information technology‐enabled products. Transfer arrangement of the Indian banks with overseas exchange houses has reduced the settlement cycle and the cost. Both the banks and money transfer operators (MTOs) are able to keep the transaction cycle low through the use of information technology‐enabled formats. Given that the average cost curve of the banks is located to the right of the average cost curve of the MTOs, greater potential exists for the improvement in overall efficiency of the two entities, particularly through the sharing of messaging and the access and disbursement networks to reduce the overhead cost. The estimates of error correction model reveal that the transaction fee and payment infrastructure are significant determinants of remittance flows, underscoring the scope of policy measures in influencing remittance inflows. The estimates indicate that over the medium to long‐term horizon, transaction cost emerges as the most dominant variable explaining the variation in remittances. The payments infrastructure also explains about 10 per cent variation in remittances over the medium‐term. The impulse response analysis further reveals that the favourable shocks to transaction fees and the payments infrastructure cause steady improvement in remittance inflows over the medium‐term horizon, thus underlining the importance of cost and efficiency in affecting the workers’ remittances.
Niacin: a re‐emerging pharmaceutical for the treatment of dyslipidaemia
Authors: Vosper Helen
Published: July 2009

Dyslipidaemias, particularly those characterized by the ‘atherogenic profile’ of high low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol and triglycerides and low high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol, are the major modifiable risk factor for atherosclerosis. The search for drugs to favourably alter such lipid profiles, reducing the associated morbidity and mortality, remains a major research focus. Niacin (nicotinic acid) is the most effective agent available for increasing high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol, but its use is associated with side effects that negatively affect patient compliance: these appear to arise largely as a result of production of prostaglandin D2 and its subsequent activation of the DP1 receptor. Desire to reduce the side effects (and improve pharmacokinetic parameters) has led to the development of a number of agonists that have differing effects, both in terms of clinical potency and the severity of adverse effects. The recent discovery of the niacin G‐protein‐coupled receptor HM74A (GPR109A) has clarified the distinction between the mechanism whereby niacin exerts its therapeutic effects and the mechanisms responsible for the generation of side effects. This has allowed the development of new drugs that show great potential for the treatment of dyslipidaemia. However, recent advances in understanding of the contribution of prostaglandin metabolism to vascular wall health suggest that some of the beneficial effects of niacin may well result from activation of the same pathways responsible for the adverse reactions. The purpose of this review is to emphasize that the search for agonists that show higher tolerability must take into account all aspects of signalling through this receptor.
Assessment of Elementary School Students’ Sun Protection Behaviors
Authors: Hunter Seft , Wells Kristen J. , Jacobsen Paul B. , Lee Ji‐Hyun , Boulware David , Love‐Jackson Kymia , Abdulla Rania , Roetzheim Richard G.
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Background/Objectives: Studies suggest that excessive sun exposure in childhood contributes to the development of skin cancer later in life. Methods: This study explores 4th grade student assessment of their sun protection behaviors. This study used baseline data collected in the Fall of 2006 for the Sun Protection for Florida’s Children (SPF) project. In brief, the SPF project is a group randomized trial to test the effectiveness of a school based intervention promoting sun protection in general, and hat use in particular, in Hillsborough County Schools, Florida. The data reported in this study were collected at baseline before any intervention activities was initiated. Results: The self‐reported use of various methods of sun protection was low. Only a small percentage of students wore long sleeves or a hat with a brim before leaving for school. In addition, few students wore a hat with a wide brim when outside but not at school. Students spent an average of 59.1 minutes per week outdoors while attending school and 35.5 minutes during peak sun exposure. Conclusion: Sun exposure at school poses a significant risk to student health and more needs to be carried out to promote the use of a wide‐brimmed hat and limiting student sun exposure.
Extensive Neonatal Dermatophytoses
Authors: Metkar Amol , Joshi Anuja , Vishalakshi Vishwanath , Miskeen Autar K. , Torsekar Raghunandan Govind
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  We report a 25‐day‐old boy who was referred to our dermatology unit for evaluation of extensive annular erythematous lesions on his body. We initially considered the differential diagnoses of candidiasis and neonatal lupus erythematosus but investigations revealed the case as tinea corporis due to a relatively uncommon causative agent, Microsporum gypseum. To the best of our knowledge it is the first case of extensive neonatal dermatophytoses caused by this organism. The possible causes and the role of steroids in producing the clinical picture in our patient are discussed.
Dark impact and galactic star formation: origin of the Gould belt
Authors: Bekki Kenji
Published: July 2009

The Milky Way has a giant stellar structure in the solar neighbourhood, which has a size of ∼1 kpc, a mass of ∼106 M⊙ and a ring-like distribution of young stars. Fundamental physical properties of this local enigmatic structure, known as the Gould belt (GB), have not been reproduced by previously proposed models. We first show that the local enigmatic structure could have formed about 30 Myr ago as a result of a high-speed, oblique collision between a gas cloud with a mass of ∼106 M⊙ and a dark matter clump with a mass of ∼107 M⊙ based on numerical simulations of the collision. We find that strong dynamical impact of the clump transforms the flattened cloud into a ring-like stellar structure after inducing star formation within the cloud. Our simulations furthermore demonstrate that the stellar structure is moderately elongated and significantly inclined with respect to the disc of the Milky Way owing to the strong tidal torque by the colliding clump. We thus suggest that the GB is one of the stellar substructures formed from collisions between gas clouds and dark matter clumps predicted in the hierarchical clustering scenario of galaxy formation. We also suggest that collisions of dark matter clumps with their host galaxies can significantly change star formation histories for some of their gas clouds, and thus influence galactic global star formation histories to some extent. Our simulations predict that unique giant stellar substructures recently discovered in other galaxies can result from dynamical impact of their dark matter clumps on their gas clouds.
INACTIVATION OFLISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES,SALMONELLA ENTERITIDISANDESCHERICHIA COLIO157:H7 AND SHELF LIFE EXTENSION OF FRESH‐CUT PEARS USING MALIC ACID AND QUALITY STABILIZING COMPOUNDS
Authors: RAYBAUDI‐MASSILIA ROSA M. , MOSQUEDA‐MELGAR JONATHAN , SOBRINO‐LÓPEZ ANGEL , MARTIN‐BELLOSO OLGA
Published: July 2009

Inactivation ofListeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enteritidisandEscherichia coliO157:H7 and shelf life extension of fresh‐cut pears using malic acid (MA) and quality stabilizing compounds (N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine, glutathione and calcium lactate; CGLW) were investigated. Trays of treated fresh‐cut pears were wrap sealed with a thick polypropylene film (64 µm) semipermeable to water vapor, O2and CO2, and stored at 5C for 30 days. Changes in headspace gas, firmness and color of the fresh‐cut pears were also determined. Large reductions ofL. monocytogenes(6.57 log10 cfu/g),S. enteritidis(6.60 log10 cfu/g) andE. coliO157:H7 (2.62 log10 cfu/g) just after processing were achieved in those fresh‐cut pears dipped in CGLW + MA. Microbiological shelf life of pear pieces dipped in CGLW + MA was extended by more than 21 days in comparison with those cut pears immersed in water used as control sample. Lower consumption of O2and production of CO2, ethylene and ethanol of fresh‐cut pears dipped in CGLW + MA were also observed. In addition, the color and firmness of pear pieces in CGLW + MA were maintained by more than 21 days in comparison with control samples. In conclusion, the combination of MA with quality stabilizing compounds can be a good alternative for assuring the safety and quality of fresh‐cut pears.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The use of natural substances generally recognized as safe (GRAS) such as malic acid and N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine, glutathione and calcium lactate as antimicrobials and quality stabilizing compounds, respectively, can result suitable to fresh‐cut products industry, since they can assure the safety and quality of those products, while improving their sensory attributes and maintaining the fresh‐like and healthy properties of these products greatly demanded by the consumers.
Computer Simulation and the Philosophy of Science
Authors: Winsberg Eric
Published: July 2009

There are a variety of topics in the philosophy of science that need to be rethought, in varying degrees, after one pays careful attention to the ways in which computer simulations are used in the sciences. There are a number of conceptual issues internal to the practice of computer simulation that can benefit from the attention of philosophers. This essay surveys some of the recent literature on simulation from the perspective of the philosophy of science and argues that philosophers have a lot to learn by paying closer attention to the practice of simulation.
New record of Compsidolon elaegnicola Yasunaga (Hemiptera: Miridae) from Korea
Authors: CHO Young Jae , KWON Yong Jung , SUH Sang Jae
Published: July 2009

In this paper, two Korean Compsidolon species, C. salicellum (Herrich‐Schaeffer) and C. elaegnicola Yasunaga, were treated. Of these, C. elaegnicola Yasunaga, 1999, which was previously known only from Japan, is reported from Korea for the first time and diagnosed. A dorsal habitus image and illustrations of the male genitalia are provided.
Comparison of glutathione S‐transferase and general esterase in two bugs, Eurygaster integriceps Puton (Heteroptera: Scutelleridae) and Brachynema germari Kolenati (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: RAMZI Samar , BANDANI Ali Reza , ZIBAEE Arash , KWON Ohseok
Published: July 2009

Glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs) and general esterases play important roles in the detoxification of many substances including allelochemicals from plants and chemical pesticides. In this study, to determine the feeding status and effects of agronomical practices on GST and general esterase, two bug species, Eurygaster integriceps and Brachynema germari, were selected with differences in these cases. GST and general esterase responses varied when switching from 1‐chloro‐2,4‐dinitrobenzene (CDNB) and α‐naphtyl to 1,2‐dichloro‐4‐nitro‐benzene (DCNB) and β‐naphtyl in E. integriceps and B. germari, respectively. The activities of GST and esterase by using CDNB and α‐naphtyl were higher than that of DCNB and β‐naphtyl for both insects. It was shown that the optimal pH for GST and general esterase activity varied between pH 5.5 and 6. While the Michaelis constant (Km) value related to E. integriceps toward CDNB and α‐naphtyl was lower than Km for B. germari, Km values calculated for E. integriceps toward DCNB and β‐naphtyl corresponding to those related to A. hejeri were similar to CDNB and α‐naphtyl values. The maximal reaction velocity (Vmax) values related to E. integriceps for both substrates (CDNB and α‐naphtyl) were always higher than those from B. germari and showed significant differences. At the basement of the native‐PAGE electrophoresis, five bands were observed in for GST and three were visualized for B. germari, with a large, darker band for E. integriceps in the case of esterases. Studies on the detoxification enzymes of herbivores should be undertaken to determine accurately the effect of the host plants on the organisms eating them, particularly in terms of biochemical and ecological advantages.
Donor safety issues in high‐dose platelet collection using the latest apheresis systems
Authors: CHAUDHARY RAJENDRA , DAS SUDIPTA S. , KHETAN DHEERAJ , OJHA SHASHANK , VERMA SUNIL
Published: July 2009

The practice of high‐yield or double‐dose platelet (DDP) collection through automated apheresis is gradually increasing. Very few studies have examined donor safety issues in DDP collection. The present study highlights the process of DDP donor selection as well as the product quality and donor safety issues on 67 donors. All procedures were performed following the departmental standard operating procedure. We observed a significantly higher mean platelet yield with the Amicus separator than the Fresenius separator (5.4 × 1011vs. 5.1 × 1011, P = 0.03). The Fresenius separator processed a mean blood volume of 3974 mL and collected a mean platelet amount of 444.9 mL, and these were significantly higher when compared with Amicus (P < 0.0001). Mean values of procedure‐related parameters, such as acid‐citrate‐phosphate volume, donation time, needle time, processing time and whole blood processed, and donor‐related parameters, like citrate toxicity and vasovagal reactions, were significantly higher during DDP than single‐dose platelet collection (P < 0.05). We conclude that obtaining eligible donors for DDP from a shrinking donor population with low normal platelet values is a difficult task. Therefore, each transfusion service should set their own guidelines for DDP collection with the objectives of donor safety and optimal product quality.
5-TERMINAL THzGaN BASED TRANSISTOR WITH FIELD- AND SPACE-CHARGE CONTROL ELECTRODES
Authors: SIMIN GRIGORY , SHUR MICHAEL S. , GASKA REMIS
Published: July 2009

We present a novel approach to achieve terahertz-range cutoff frequencies and maximum frequencies of operation of GaN based heterostructure field-effect transistors (HFETs) at relatively high drain voltages. Strong short-channel effects limit the frequency of operation and output power in conventional geometry GaN HFETs. In this work, we propose a novel device with two additional independently biased electrodes controlling the electric field and space-charge close to the gate edges. As a result, the effective gate length extension due to short channel effects is diminished and electron velocity in the device channel is increased. Our simulations show that the proposed five-terminal HFET allows achieving fT=1.28 THz and fmax= 0.815 THz at the drain voltages as high as 12 V. Hence, this device opens up a new approach to designing THz transistor sources.
MBE GROWTH AND CHARACTERIZATION OF Mg-DOPED III-NITRIDES ON SAPPHIRE
Authors: CHEN X. , MATTHEWS K. D. , HAO D. , SCHAFF W. J. , EASTMAN L. F. , WALUKIEWICZ W. , AGER J. W. , YU K. M.
Published: July 2009

Plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxial growth of Mg -doped GaN and InGaN on a sapphire substrate is investigated in this study. Electrical characteristics of p -type GaN strongly depend on the flux of Mg acceptors and the growth temperature. Only the intermediate range of Mg fluxes (beam equivalent pressures near 1×10-9T) produce p -type GaN with good electrical properties, and a maximum hole concentration of 3.5 × 1018 cm-3 is obtained with a Hall mobility of 2.1 cm2/V·s. Due to the strong surface accumulation of electrons, Hall measurements do not indicate p -type polarity for In fraction beyond 11%. In contrast, hot probe measurements show that p -polarity can be measured for the entire range of Mg -doped In mole fractions. Electroluminescence also indicates p -polarity for Ga -rich mole fractions. In x Ga1- x N p - n homojunctions are fabricated and tested. All GaN devices show low series resistance (0.03 ohm-cm2) and insignificant parasitic leakage. IV curves of all three InGaN homojunctions show rectifying characteristics under dark conditions and photo-response under outdoor sunlight, indicating the existence of holes in InGaN with up to 40% In content.
HIGH CRITICAL CURRENT DENSITY OF MgB2 BULKS SINTERED IN FLOWING WELDING GRADE Ar ATMOSPHERE
Authors: ZHANG Y. , ZHOU S. H. , LI W. X. , WANG X. L. , DOU S. X.
Published: July 2009

The effect of processing atmosphere on the microstructure and superconducting properties of MgB 2 was studied for bulk samples made using the in situ reaction technique under argon gas with three different levels of purity: ultra-high, high, and welding grade. The critical temperature, T c , decreased by 0.5 K, while the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the MgB 2 peaks, and the resistivity showed an increase in the sample processed in welding Ar . The critical current density, J c , and the upper critical field, H c 2, for the welding Ar sample were improved in comparison with the samples treated in ultra-high and high purity argon. Optimal J c in MgB 2 can be achieved by using readily available and economical welding grade Ar as the protective atmosphere instead of using ultra-high or high purity Ar .
MAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF MULTIFERROIC MATERIALS
Authors: QI X. W. , WANG H. F. , HAN W. Q. , WANG-YANG P. H. , ZHOU J. , YUE Z. X.
Published: July 2009

Magnetic properties of multiferroic materials consisting of ferroelectric phase and ferrite phase have been investigated. Typical magnetic hysteresis loops of prepared multiferroic materials have been observed. The coercivity increases with the increase of ferroelectric phase. However, the saturation magnetization of multiferroic materials linearly decreases with the increase of ferroelectric phase. On increasing the content of ferroelectric phase, the initial permeability of multiferroic materials decreases and the peak of the quality factor tends to shift toward higher frequency. The Curie temperature of prepared multiferroic materials shifts toward higher temperature with the increase of ferroelectric phase. The microstructures of prepared multiferroic materials also have been studied.
EFFECT OF RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION ON RECORDING HEAD IN WRITING PROCESS AT 125 KHZ LOW FREQUENCY
Authors: PRATOOMTHIP APHAIPHAK , KRUESUBTHAWORN ANAN , SA-NGIAMSAK CHIRANUT , SIRITARATIWAT APIRAT , PAKPONGSIRI PONCHAI
Published: July 2009

This article presents the effect of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) at 125 kHz on GMR recording heads. The study is mainly concerned with the RFID effect on recording heads in terms of the distance (r) between the antenna reader of the RFID and the recording head, the coil radius (a) of the antenna reader, and the angle (θ) between antenna reader and recording head. The maximum error of the writing current is found in this experiment of about 2.5% (where r < a). An increase of angle affects the writing current error when the radius increases. It is found that the writing current error decreases when r > a. SEM result shows that radiated fields of RFID do not visibly degrade the writer part but only disturbance to recording heads in testing is found.
SOFTWARE ARCHITECTURE AND TASK DEFINITION OF A MULTIPLE HUMANOID COOPERATIVE CONTROL SYSTEM
Authors: LIM HEONYOUNG , KANG YEONSIK , LEE JOONGJAE , KIM JONGWON , YOU BUM-JAE
Published: July 2009

This paper presents a cooperative control software architecture that coordinates a team of multiple humanoid to complete a mission by collaborating with each other. The mission of the humanoid team is decomposed into tasks and distributed to each humanoid to be executed. Each task is described by the proposed humanoid action primitives, which are designed to abstract broad classes of humanoid tasks appropriately. In particular, missions and tasks for the humanoid team are designed by using a finite state machine with a developed user interface. The multiple humanoid cooperative control software consists of 3 layers: the mission layer, task layer, and action layer. The software architecture has scalability to the number of humanoids and the number of assigned missions with its framework based on the CORBA middleware, which integrates many different functionalities of the humanoid. The feasibility and robustness of the implemented software architecture are verified through successful completion of the mission assigned to the humanoid team while each humanoid performs its given task sequentially.
Preclinical photodynamic therapy in Spain 1: Chemical and photophysical studies on porphycenes and other photosensitizers
Authors: Sánchez-García David , Borrell José I. , Batllori Xavier , Teixidó Jordi , Tomás Xavier , Nonell Santi
Published: July 2009

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a rapidly expanding alternative to the treatment of solid tumors and other highly-proliferative diseases due to its many attractive features: high selectivity, repeatability, and lack of serious adverse effects. The five drugs approved for use in PDT to date suffer from different problems that limit their efficacy and safety. Current understanding of cell death mechanisms offers an opportunity for the development of new, more efficient and safer drugs. This highlight describes the efforts of our research group in the PDT field: chemical development of porphycenes as PDT photosensitizers, photophysical screening of new families of potential PDT agents, and development of spectroscopic techniques for directly monitoring singlet oxygen and thus better understand the production, diffusion, and reactivity of this primary cytotoxic species in cells.
Supramolecular organization of phthalocyanines: from solution to surface
Authors: Victoria Martínez-Díaz M. , Bottari Giovanni
Published: July 2009

Phthalocyanines are an interesting class of aromatic macrocycles which possess exciting electrical, redox and photophysical properties that make them ideal building blocks for applications in different technological fields. However, the incorporation of phthalocyanines into devices is often tied to the possibility of organizing these macrocycles into arrays using supramolecular interactions. To date, several supramolecular motifs such as hydrogen-bonding, donor-acceptor or metal-ligand interactions have been used to promote the phthalocyanines' organization in solution. Furthermore, such weak, non-covalent interactions have also been widely employed to foster the organization of these macrocycles in condensed phases such as liquid-crystals or thin films. This micro-review provides a brief overview of the contribution made by some research groups in Spain towards the preparation of organized phthalocyanine-based supramolecular systems.