bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limit cycle walking, running, and skipping of telescopic-legged rimless wheel
Authors: Asano Fumihiko , Suguro Masashi
Published: November 2011

This paper investigates the efficiency and properties of limit cycle walking, running, and skipping of a planar, active, telescopic-legged rimless wheel. First, we develop the robot equations of motion and design an output following control for the telescopic-legs' action. We then numerically show that a stable walking gait can be generated by asymmetrizing the impact posture. Second, we numerically show that a stable running gait can be generated by employing a simple feedback control of the control period, and compare the properties of the generated running gait with those of the walking gait. Furthermore, we find out another underlying gait called skipping that emerges as an extension of the walking gait. Through numerical analysis, we show that the generated skipping gaits are inherently stable and are less efficient than the other two gaits.
A case-control study on the occurrence ofSalmonellaspp. in the environment of pigs
Authors: GOTTER V. , BLAHA T. , KLEIN G.
Published: November 2011

The objective of this study was to compare the occurrence ofSalmonellaspp. found in the animal environment in pig herds with differentSalmonellarisks (61 herds with low seroprevalence, 81 herds with high seroprevalence) on a broad scale. The environmental samples were divided into two types: direct (n=1105) and indirect (n=1220) environmental samples. All samples were tested forSalmonellaspp. via real-time polymerase chain reaction. Most of the indirect environments were more oftenSalmonella-positive in the high-seroprevalence herds than in the low-seroprevalence herds; significantly higher were compartment aisles [odds ratio (OR) 3·45, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·61–7·41], driving boards (OR 3·06, 95% CI 1·38–6·92) and the central aisle of the barn (OR 3·03, 95% CI 1·35–6·83). The overall results show that especially areas in the indirect environment are the major, but mostly underestimated causes of residualSalmonella.
Estimating near‐surface shear wave velocities in Japan by applying seismic interferometry to KiK‐net data
Authors: Nakata N. , Snieder R.
Published: November 2011

We estimate shear wave velocities in the shallow subsurface throughout Japan by applying seismic interferometry to the data recorded with KiK‐net, a strong motion network in Japan. Each KiK‐net station has two receivers; one receiver on the surface and the other in a borehole. By using seismic interferometry, we extract the shear wave that propagates between these two receivers. Applying this method to earthquake‐recorded data at all KiK‐net stations from 2000 to 2010 and measuring the arrival time of these shear waves, we analyze monthly and annual averages of the near‐surface shear wave velocity all over Japan. Shear wave velocities estimated by seismic interferometry agree well with the velocities obtained from logging data. The estimated shear wave velocities of each year are stable. For the Niigata region, we observe a velocity reduction caused by major earthquakes. For stations on soft rock, the measured shear wave velocity varies with the seasons, and we show negative correlation between the shear wave velocities and precipitation. We also analyze shear wave splitting by rotating the horizontal components of the surface sensors and borehole sensors and measuring the dependence on the shear wave polarization. This allows us to estimate the polarization with the fast shear wave velocity throughout Japan. For the data recorded at the stations built on hard rock sites, the fast shear wave polarization directions correlate with the direction of the plate motion.
Lightning remagnetization of the Vredefort impact crater: No evidence for impact‐generated magnetic fields
Authors: Carporzen Laurent , Weiss Benjamin P. , Gilder Stuart A. , Pommier Anne , Hart Rodger J.
Published: November 2011

The Vredefort impact crater in South Africa is one of the oldest and largest craters on Earth, making it a unique analog for planetary basins. Intense and randomly oriented remanent magnetization observed in surface samples at Vredefort has been attributed to impact‐generated magnetic fields. This possibility has major implications for extraterrestrial paleomagnetism since impact‐generated fields have been proposed as a key alternative to the dynamo hypothesis for magnetization on the Moon and asteroids. Furthermore, the presence of single‐domain magnetite found along shock‐generated planar deformation features in Vredefort granites has been widely attributed to the 2.02 Ga impact event. An alternative hypothesis is that the unusual magnetization and/or rock magnetic properties of Vredefort rocks are the products of recent lightning strikes. Lightning and impact‐generated fields can be distinguished by measuring samples collected from below the present surface. Here we present a paleomagnetic and rock magnetic study of samples from two 10 m deep vertical boreholes. We show that the magnetization at depth is consistent with a thermoremanent magnetization acquired in the local geomagnetic field following the impact, while random, intense magnetization and some of the unusual rock magnetic properties observed in surface rocks are superficial phenomena produced by lightning. Because Vredefort is the only terrestrial crater that has been proposed to contain records of impact‐generated fields, this removes a key piece of evidence in support of the hypothesis that paleomagnetism of the Moon and other extraterrestrial bodies is the product of impacts rather than past core dynamos.
Pigeons steer like helicopters and generate down- and upstroke lift during low speed turns
Authors: Ros Ivo G. , Bassman Lori C. , Badger Marc A. , Pierson Alyssa N. , Biewener Andrew A.
Published: November 2011

Turning is crucial for animals, particularly during predator–prey interactions and to avoid obstacles. For flying animals, turning consists of changes in (
i
) flight trajectory, or path of travel, and (
ii
) body orientation, or 3D angular position. Changes in flight trajectory can only be achieved by modulating aerodynamic forces relative to gravity. How birds coordinate aerodynamic force production relative to changes in body orientation during turns is key to understanding the control strategies used in avian maneuvering flight. We hypothesized that pigeons produce aerodynamic forces in a uniform direction relative to their bodies, requiring changes in body orientation to redirect those forces to turn. Using detailed 3D kinematics and body mass distributions, we examined net aerodynamic forces and body orientations in slowly flying pigeons (
Columba livia
) executing level 90° turns. The net aerodynamic force averaged over the downstroke was maintained in a fixed direction relative to the body throughout the turn, even though the body orientation of the birds varied substantially. Early in the turn, changes in body orientation primarily redirected the downstroke aerodynamic force, affecting the bird’s flight trajectory. Subsequently, the pigeon mainly reacquired the body orientation used in forward flight without affecting its flight trajectory. Surprisingly, the pigeon’s upstroke generated aerodynamic forces that were approximately 50% of those generated during the downstroke, nearly matching the relative upstroke forces produced by hummingbirds. Thus, pigeons achieve low speed turns much like helicopters, by using whole-body rotations to alter the direction of aerodynamic force production to change their flight trajectory.
Bone morphogenetic protein 7 in dormancy and metastasis of prostate cancer stem-like cells in bone
Authors: Kobayashi Aya , Okuda Hiroshi , Xing Fei , Pandey Puspa R. , Watabe Misako , Hirota Shigeru , Pai Sudha K. , Liu Wen , Fukuda Koji , Chambers Christopher , Wilber Andrew , Watabe Kounosuke
Published: November 2011

Metastatic disease is the major cause of cancer deaths, and recurrent tumors at distant organs are a critical issue. However, how metastatic tumor cells become dormant and how and why tumors recur in target organs are not well understood. In this study, we demonstrate that BMP7 (bone morphogenetic protein 7) secreted from bone stromal cells induces senescence in prostate cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) by activating p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and increasing expression of the cell cycle inhibitor, p21, and the metastasis suppressor gene, NDRG1 (N-myc downstream-regulated gene 1). This effect of BMP7 depended on BMPR2 (BMP receptor 2), and BMPR2 expression inversely correlated with recurrence and bone metastasis in prostate cancer patients. Importantly, this BMP7-induced senescence in CSCs was reversible upon withdrawal of BMP7. Furthermore, treatment of mice with BMP7 significantly suppressed the growth of CSCs in bone, whereas the withdrawal of BMP7 restarted growth of these cells. These results suggest that the BMP7–BMPR2–p38–NDRG1 axis plays a critical role in dormancy and recurrence of prostate CSCs in bone and suggest a potential therapeutic utility of BMP7 for recurrent metastatic disease.
Riemann-Siegel integral formula for the Lerch zeta function
Authors: Balanzario Eugenio , Sánchez-Ortiz Jorge
Published: November 2011

Here we present a Riemann-Siegel integral formula for the Lerch zeta function. Proceeding as in Turing’s method for computing the Riemann zeta function, our integral formula allows for the numerical computation of the Lerch zeta function by numerical quadratures.
Control measures for a recent invasion of Hieracium pilosella in Southern Patagonian rangelands
Authors: CIPRIOTTI P A , RAUBER R B , COLLANTES M B , BRAUN K , ESCARTÍN C
Published: November 2011

Cipriotti PA, Rauber RB, Collantes MB, Braun K & Escartín C (2011). Control measures for a recent invasion of Hieracium pilosella in Southern Patagonian rangelands. Weed Research 52, 98–105.

Plant invasions have important ecological impacts on biodiversity, the functioning of ecosystems and economic sustainability. In this study, we evaluated the effects of four control measures (pasture sown + fertiliser, fertiliser and selective/non‐selective herbicide applications) in two different grazing conditions (grazed and ungrazed) during a recent invasion of the exotic herb Hieracium pilosella in northern grasslands of Tierra del Fuego Island in Southern Patagonia, Argentina. As response variables, we measured the cover of the invasive species, the dominant growth forms of other plant species, litter and bare soil at patch scales (m²) during two consecutive growing seasons. The effects of fertilisation depended on the grazing conditions; H. pilosella cover decreased by more than 92% and was replaced by dicotyledonous herbs in the ungrazed/fertilised subplots, while it exhibited no decrease in the grazed/fertilised subplots after the second growing season. Both herbicides (selective and non‐selective) reduced H. pilosella cover by c. 63% compared with the untreated subplots independently of grazing. However, the non‐selective herbicide application resulted in an increase in bare soil and litter cover in the treated grazed and ungrazed subplots respectively. In contrast, such effects were not observed with the selective broad‐leaved herbicide application. A control strategy based on the local application of selective herbicides and/or NP fertilisers, in conjunction with a transient ban on sheep grazing, reduced the invader’s cover in the short term and at a local scale and also reduced the cover of bare soil through the restoration of native vegetation. An economic assessment of this strategy supported the profitability of these control measures.
Block‐and‐ash flow deposit of the Narcondam Volcano: Product of dacite–andesite dome collapse in the Burma–Java subduction complex
Authors: PAL TAPAN , BHATTACHARYA ANINDYA
Published: November 2011

Narcondam Island in the Andaman Sea represents a dacite–andesite dome volcano in the volcanic chain of the Burma–Java subduction complex. The pyroclasts of andesitic composition are restricted to the periphery of the dome predominantly in the form of block‐and‐ash deposits and minor base surge deposits. Besides pyroclastic deposits, andesitic lava occurs dominantly at the basal part of the dome whereas dacitic lava occupies the central part of the dome. The pyroclasts are represented by non‐vesiculated to poorly vesiculated blocks of andesite, lapilli, and ash. The hot debris derived from dome collapse was deposited initially as massive to reversely‐graded beds with the grain support at the lower part and matrix support at the upper part. This sequence is overlain by repetitive beds of lapilli breccia to tuff breccia. These deposits are recognized as a basal avalanche rather than lahar deposit. This basal avalanche was punctuated by an ash‐cloud surge deposit representing a sequence of thinly bedded units of normal graded unit to parallel laminated beds.
Developing work–family balance through conflict management*
Authors: Lu Jiafang , Tjosvold Dean , Shi Kan , Wang Bin
Published: November 2011

An often‐neglected perspective is that work–family incompatibilities are not only intrapersonal role conflicts but also typically involve interpersonal conflicts. This study adopts an episodes approach and uses the theory of cooperation and competition to understand the interaction that promotes resolving work–family conflict incidents. Two‐hundred and four Chinese dual‐career parents each described a specific work–family conflict incident and responded to specific questions to code the interaction. Structural equation analyses indicated that cooperative goals facilitated constructive controversy that in turn promoted high quality resolutions, strong relationships, and confidence in the future of their work and family lives.
Differential inhibition of tumour cell‐induced platelet aggregation by the nicotinate aspirin prodrug (ST0702) and aspirin
Authors: Medina Carlos , Harmon Shona , Inkielewicz Iwona , Santos‐Martinez Maria Jose , Jones Michael , Cantwell Paula , Bazou Despina , Ledwidge Mark , Radomski Marek W. , Gilmer John F.
Published: November 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Tumour cell‐induced platelet aggregation (TCIPA) facilitates cancer cell invasion, angiogenesis and the formation of metastatic foci. TCIPA can be modulated by pharmacological inhibitors of MMP‐2 and ADP; however, the COX inhibitor aspirin did not prevent TCIPA. In this study, we have tested the pharmacological effects of a new group of isosorbide‐based aspirin prodrugs on TCIPA.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

TCIPA was induced in human platelets by mixing with human adenocarcinoma or fibrosarcoma cells under no flow and flow conditions. The release of gelatinases and P‐selectin expression during TCIPA were studied by zymography and flow cytometry respectively.

KEY RESULTS

Tumour cells caused platelet aggregation. This aggregation resulted in the release of MMP‐2 and a significant up‐regulation of P‐selectin on platelets, indicative of platelet activation. Pharmacological modulation of TCIPA revealed that ST0702, one of the aspirin prodrugs, down‐regulated TCIPA while aspirin was ineffective. The deacetylated metabolite of ST0702, 5‐nicotinate salicylate (ST0702 salicylate), down‐regulated both ADP‐stimulated platelet aggregation and TCIPA.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Our results show that ST0702 was an effective inhibitor of TCIPA in vitro. Its deacetylated metabolite may contribute to the effects of ST0702 by inhibiting ADP‐mediated TCIPA.
Basal metabolic rate and energetic cost of thermoregulation among migratory and resident blue tits
Authors: Nilsson Anna L. K. , Nilsson Jan‐Åke , Alerstam Thomas
Published: November 2011

Metabolic rates may be informative of adaptations to migration or wintering at high latitudes and may therefore be particularly interesting in partial migrants requiring adaptations to both migration and residency. To study the extent of physiological adaptations in migratory and resident blue titsCyanistes caeruleusduring the period of autumn migration in southern Sweden, we measured basal metabolic rate (BMR) and cost of thermoregulation at 0°C (CTR0). In contrast to other migrants en route, migratory blue tits had lower BMR than residents. As migratory blue tits travel extraordinarily slowly on autumn migration and residents suffer from harsher climate and severe competition, residents may need dynamic adjustments that involve larger metabolic costs than migrants. Resident males had lower CTR0 than migrants and resident females. Resident males are socially dominant, which suggests that they have priority of access to food sources during summer and early autumn. They also spend more time on moult, which would give them the time and energy needed for molting into a plumage of higher insulation quality than is possible for migrants and resident females.
Hematological, serum, and plasma chemical constituents in pantropical spotted dolphins (Stenella attenuata) following chase, encirclement, and tagging
Authors: St. Aubin David J. , Forney Karin A. , Chivers Susan J. , Scott Michael D. , Danil Kerri , Romano Tracy A. , Wells Randall S. , Gulland Frances M. D.
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Hematology, serum chemistry, and plasma hormones were evaluated in 72 pantropical spotted dolphins (Stenella attenuata attenuata) from the eastern tropical Pacific in an attempt to define the degree of stress associated with chase and encirclement by a tuna purse seiner, and are here reported for the first time for this species. Dolphins had high levels of dopamine and moderately elevated levels of enzymes indicative of the expected muscle damage following exertion of the chase. The length of time between the start of the capture operation and blood sampling correlated with increases in platelet and white blood cell counts and mean cell hemoglobin concentration, while the length of time between net tie‐down and blood sampling influenced platelet, white blood cell, and eosinophil counts. Ten dolphins recaptured 1–3 d after their first capture had significantly lower serum creatinine kinase, thyroid (T4) and globulin levels compared to values in dolphins sampled at nominal first capture. Although small sample sizes and large individual variation limit interpretation, these data indicate a stress response occurred in all dolphins, but the extent of the response is within the expected range for adaptive responses previously measured in limited numbers of wild mammals.
Heat Transfer Augmentation in a Rectangular Channel With Slit Rib-Turbulators on Two Opposite Walls
Authors: Hwang Jenn-Jiang , Liou Tong-Miin
Published: November 2011

The effect of slit ribs on heat transfer and friction in a rectangular channel is investigated experimentally. The slit ribs are arranged in-line on two opposite walls of the channel. Three rib open-area ratios (β = 24, 37, and 46 percent), three rib pitch-to-height ratios (Pi/H = 10, 20, and 30), and two rib height-to-channel hydraulic diameter ratios (H/De = 0.081, and 0.162) are examined. The Reynolds number ranges from 10,000 to 50,000. Laser holographic interferometry is employed to measure the local heat transfer coefficients of the ribbed wall quantitatively, and observe the flow over the ribbed wall qualitatively. The results show that the slit rib has an advantage of avoiding “hot spots.” In addition, the heat transfer performance of the slit-ribbed channel is much better than that of the solid-ribbed channel. Semi-empirical correlations for friction and heat transfer are developed to account for rib spacings and open-area ratios. These correlations may be used in the design of turbine blade cooling passages.
Laser Velocimeter Measurements in the Turbine of an Automotive Torque Converter: Part II—Unsteady Measurements
Authors: Brun K. , Flack R. D.
Published: November 2011

The unsteady velocity field found in the turbine of an automotive torque converter was measured using laser velocimetry. Velocities in the inlet, quarter, mild, and exit planes of the turbine were investigated at two significantly different turbine/pump rotational speed ratios: 0.065 and 0.800. A data organization method was developed to visualize the three-dimensional, periodic unsteady velocity field in the rotating frame. For this method, the acquired data are assumed to be periodic at synchronous and blade interaction frequencies. Two shaft encoders were employed to obtain the instantaneous angular position of the torque converter pump and turbine at the instant of laser velocimeter data acquisition. By proper “registration” of the velocity data, visualizing the transient interaction effects between the turbine, pump, and stator was possible. Results showed strong cyclic velocity fluctuations in the turbine inlet plane as a function of the relative turbine-pump position. These fluctuations are due to the passing of upstream pump blades by the slower rotating turbine blades. Typical fluctuations in the through flow velocity were 3.6 m/s. Quarter and midplane velocity fluctuations were seen to be lower; typical values were 1.5 m/s and 0.8 m/s, respectively. The flow field in the turbine exit plane was seen to be relatively steady with negligible fluctuations of less than 0.03 m/s. From the velocity data, the fluctuations of turbine performance parameters such as flow inlet angles, root-mean-square unsteadiness, and output torque per blade passage were calculated. Incidence angles were seen to vary by 3 and 6 deg for the 0.800 and 0.065 speed ratios, respectively, while the exit angles remained steady. The turbine output torque per blade passage fluctuated by 0.05 Nm for the 0.800 speed ratio and 0.13 Nm for the 0.065 speed ratio.
SOME HARMONIC AGGREGATION OPERATORS WITH 2-TUPLE LINGUISTIC ASSESSMENT INFORMATION AND THEIR APPLICATION TO MULTIPLE ATTRIBUTE GROUP DECISION MAKING
Authors: WEI G. W.
Published: November 2011

With respect to multiple attribute group decision making problems with linguistic information of attribute values, a group decision analysis is proposed. Some new aggregation operators are proposed: the 2-tuple linguistic weighted harmonic averaging (TWHA), 2-tuple linguistic ordered weighted harmonic averaging (TOWHA) and 2-tuple linguistic combined weighted harmonic averaging (TCWHA) operator and properties of the operators are analyzed. Then, a method based on the TWHA and TCWHA operators for multiple attribute group decision making is presented. In this approach, alternative appraisal values are calculated by the aggregation of 2-tuple linguistic information. Thus, the ranking of alternative or selection of the most desirable alternative(s) is obtained by the comparison of 2-tuple linguistic information. Finally, a numerical example is used to illustrate the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed method.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF BREACH GROWTH PROCESSES IN SAND DAMS OF QUAKE LAKES
Authors: YANG FENGGUANG , ZHOU XIAOQUAN , LIU XINGNIAN , CAO SHUYOU , HUANG ER
Published: November 2011

This paper describes an experimental study into the angle of repose for uniform sediment particles, which is important in describing the dam-break process. Two types of setups, Hele-Shaw cell and drum, were used in the experiments. Each experiment was conducted in two media, namely air and water. Based on the experimental data, an empirical formula that describes the angle of repose for uniform sediment particles under different mediums was developed. From the dam-break experiments, in general, four stages can be identified in the process of breach erosion. In Stage I, the downstream slope angle of the channel increased from an initial value θ0to θ1. In Stage II, retrograde erosion of the crest at the breached point occurred at constant angle due to seepage flow, leading to a decrease in the width of the crest of the dam in the breach. This stage ends when the crest vanishes. In Stage III, the breach continues to grow mainly laterally with the erosion propagating to the upstream slope, with the retrogressing downstream slope maintaining a constant slope. In Stage IV, the flow velocities in the breach become so small that the breach erosion stops. The results also show that the dam-breach growth process is developed with the eroding crest retrogressing at critical angle of sediment particles used for building the dam for Stages II and III and the results agree well with previous studies.
A Model-Driven Design Framework for Massively Parallel Embedded Systems
Authors: Gamatié Abdoulaye , Le Beux Sébastien , Piel Éric , Ben Atitallah Rabie , Etien Anne , Marquet Philippe , Dekeyser Jean-Luc
Published: November 2011

Modern embedded systems integrate more and more complex functionalities. At the same time, the semiconductor technology advances enable to increase the amount of hardware resources on a chip for the execution. Massively parallel embedded systems specifically deal with the optimized usage of such hardware resources to efficiently execute their functionalities. The design of these systems mainly relies on the following challenging issues: first, how to deal with the parallelism in order to increase the performance; second, how to abstract their implementation details in order to manage their complexity; third, how to refine these abstract representations in order to produce efficient implementations.

This article presents the
Gaspard
design framework for massively parallel embedded systems as a solution to the preceding issues.
Gaspard
uses the repetitive Model of Computation (MoC), which offers a powerful expression of the regular parallelism available in both system functionality and architecture. Embedded systems are designed at a high abstraction level with the MARTE (Modeling and Analysis of Real-time and Embedded systems) standard profile, in which our repetitive MoC is described by the so-called Repetitive Structure Modeling (RSM) package. Based on the Model-Driven Engineering (MDE) paradigm, MARTE models are refined towards lower abstraction levels, which make possible the design space exploration. By combining all these capabilities,
Gaspard
allows the designers to automatically generate code for formal verification, simulation and hardware synthesis from high-level specifications of high-performance embedded systems. Its effectiveness is demonstrated with the design of an embedded system for a multimedia application.
Computing and fabricating multilayer models
Authors: Holroyd Michael , Baran Ilya , Lawrence Jason , Matusik Wojciech
Published: November 2011

We present a method for automatically converting a digital 3D model into a
multilayer model
: a parallel stack of high-resolution 2D images embedded within a semi-transparent medium. Multilayer models can be produced quickly and cheaply and provide a strong sense of an object's 3D shape and texture over a wide range of viewing directions. Our method is designed to minimize visible cracks and other artifacts that can arise when projecting an input model onto a small number of parallel planes, and avoid layer transitions that cut the model along important surface features. We demonstrate multilayer models fabricated with glass and acrylic tiles using commercially available printers.
OSCAM - optimized stereoscopic camera control for interactive 3D
Authors: Oskam Thomas , Hornung Alexander , Bowles Huw , Mitchell Kenny , Gross Markus
Published: November 2011

This paper presents a controller for camera convergence and interaxial separation that specifically addresses challenges ininteractivestereoscopic applications like games. In such applications, unpredictable viewer- or object-motion often compromises stereopsis due to excessive binocular disparities. We derive constraints on the camera separation and convergence that enable our controller to automatically adapt to any given viewing situation and 3D scene, providing an exact mapping of the virtual content into a comfortable depth range around the display. Moreover, we introduce an interpolation function that linearizes the transformation of stereoscopic depth over time, minimizing nonlinear visual distortions. We describe how to implement the complete control mechanism on the GPU to achieve running times below 0.2ms for full HD. This provides a practical solution even for demanding real-time applications. Results of a user study show a significant increase of stereoscopic comfort, without compromising perceived realism. Our controller enables 'fail-safe' stereopsis, provides intuitive control to accommodate to personal preferences, and allows to properly display stereoscopic content on differently sized output devices.
The Genetics of 3-M Syndrome: Unravelling a Potential New Regulatory Growth Pathway
Authors: Hanson Dan , Murray Philip G. , Black Graeme C.M. , Clayton Peter E.
Published: November 2011

3-M syndrome is an autosomal recessive primordial growth disorder characterised by severe postnatal growth restriction caused by mutations in CUL7, OBSL1 or CCDC8. Clinical characteristics include dysmorphic facial features and fleshy prominent heels with a variable degree of radiological abnormalities. CUL7 is a structural protein central to the formation of an ubiquitin E3 ligase that is known to target insulin receptor substrate 1 for degradation. CUL7 also binds to p53 and may be involved in the control of p53-dependent apoptosis. OBSL1 is a cytoskeletal adaptor protein that was thought to play a central role in myocyte remodelling, and CCDC8 has no defined function as yet. However, the physical interaction of OBSL1 with both CUL7 and CCDC8 and its potential role in the regulation of CUL7 expression suggest all three proteins are members of the same growth-regulatory pathway. Future work should be directed to investigating the function of the 3-M syndrome pathway and in particular the role in the insulin like growth factor I signalling pathway with a view of potentially revealing new therapeutic targets and identifying key regulators of cellular growth.
Comment on "on the stability of quadratic double centralizers and quadratic multipliers: a fixed point approach" [Bodaghi et al., j. inequal. appl. 2011, article id 957541 (2011)]
Authors: Park Choonkil , lee Jung Rye , Shin Dong Yun , Gordji Madjid Eshaghi
Published: November 2011

Bodaghi et al. [On the stability of quadratic double centralizers and quadratic multipliers: a fixed point approach. J. Inequal. Appl. 2011, Article ID 957541, 9pp. (2011)] proved the Hyers-Ulam stability of quadratic double centralizers and quadratic multipliers on Banach algebras by fixed point method. One can easily show that all the quadratic double centralizers (L, R) in the main results must be (0, 0). The results are trivial. In this article, we correct the results.

2010 MSC: 39B52; 46H25; 47H10; 39B72.
Biochemical comparison of osteoarthritic knees with and without effusion
Authors: Cattano Nicole M , Driban Jeffrey B , Balasubramanian Easwaran , Barbe Mary F , Amin Mamta , Sitler Michael R
Published: November 2011

Background

Several symptom-relieving interventions have been shown to be efficacious among osteoarthritis (OA) patients with knee effusion; however, not every symptomatic knee OA patient has clinical effusion. Results may be over-generalized since it is unclear if effused knees represent a unique pathological condition or subset compared to knees without effusion. The primary purpose of this study was to determine if biochemical differences existed between OA knees with and without effusion.

Methods

The present cross-sectional study consisted of 22 volunteers (11 with knee effusion, 11 without knee effusion) with confirmed late-stage radiographic knee OA (Kellgren-Lawrence score ≥ 3). Synovial fluid samples were collected and analyzed using a custom multiplex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to determine eight specific biomarker concentrations (e.g., catabolic, anabolic).

Results

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3, tissue inhibitor of MMPs (TIMP)-1, TIMP-2, and interleukin-10 were significantly higher in the knees with effusion than in the knees without effusion.

Conclusions

The biochemical differences that existed between knees with and without effusion provide support that OA subsets may exist, characterized by distinct biochemical characteristics and clinical findings (e.g., effusion).
Metachronous pulmonary and adrenal metastases after liver transplantation for hepatocarcinoma
Authors: Chen Shan-Wen , Wang Shuo , Wang Bo , Li Wei-Dong , Yan Sheng , Xie Li-Ping
Published: November 2011

Background

The worldwide experience of surgical resection for isolated metastasis following liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is limited.

Methods

The case of a 60-year-old patient performed successful surgical management for metachronous pulmonary and adrenal metastases from HCC after LT.

Results

Eighty months after LT, he was presently alive and disease-free with a normal AFP value.

Conclusion

The case is an interesting report on a somehow indolent metastatic spread of HCC after LT. It should be considered that metachronous metastatic resectable disease, with no data of recurrence at the primary site in an operable patient, is an indication to perform a surgical resection.
Semistability of iterations in cone spaces
Authors: Yadegarnegad A , Jahedi S , Yousefi B , Vaezpour SM
Published: November 2011

The aim of this work is to prove some iteration procedures in cone metric spaces. This extends some recent results of T-stability.

Mathematics Subject Classification

47J25; 26A18.
Remarks on uniform attractors for the 3D non-autonomous Navier-Stokes-Voight equations
Authors: Dou Yiwen , Yang Xinguang , Qin Yuming
Published: November 2011

In this paper, we show the existence of pullback attractors for the non-autonomous Navier-Stokes-Voight equations by using contractive functions, which is more simple than the weak continuous method to establish the uniformly asymptotical compactness in H
1 and H
2.

2010 Mathematics Subject Classification: 35D05; 35M10
Risk factors for invasive fungal disease in critically ill adult patients: a systematic review
Authors: Muskett Hannah , Shahin Jason , Eyres Gavin , Harvey Sheila , Rowan Kathy , Harrison David
Published: November 2011

Introduction

Over 5,000 cases of invasive Candida species infections occur in the United Kingdom each year, and around 40% of these cases occur in critical care units. Invasive fungal disease (IFD) in critically ill patients is associated with increased morbidity and mortality at a cost to both the individual and the National Health Service. In this paper, we report the results of a systematic review performed to identify and summarise the important risk factors derived from published multivariable analyses, risk prediction models and clinical decision rules for IFD in critically ill adult patients to inform the primary data collection for the Fungal Infection Risk Evaluation Study.

Methods

An internet search was performed to identify articles which investigated risk factors, risk prediction models or clinical decisions rules for IFD in critically ill adult patients. Eligible articles were identified in a staged process and were assessed by two investigators independently. The methodological quality of the reporting of the eligible articles was assessed using a set of questions addressing both general and statistical methodologies.

Results

Thirteen articles met the inclusion criteria, of which eight articles examined risk factors, four developed a risk prediction model or clinical decision rule and one evaluated a clinical decision rule. Studies varied in terms of objectives, risk factors, definitions and outcomes. The following risk factors were found in multiple studies to be significantly associated with IFD: surgery, total parenteral nutrition, fungal colonisation, renal replacement therapy, infection and/or sepsis, mechanical ventilation, diabetes, and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) or APACHE III score. Several other risk factors were also found to be statistically significant in single studies only. Risk factor selection process and modelling strategy also varied across studies, and sample sizes were inadequate for obtaining reliable estimates.

Conclusions

This review shows a number of risk factors to be significantly associated with the development of IFD in critically ill adults. Methodological limitations were identified in the design and conduct of studies in this area, and caution should be used in their interpretation.
Loss of Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2) Expression in Metastatic Sites of HER2-Overexpressing Primary Breast Tumors
Authors: Niikura Naoki , Liu Jun , Hayashi Naoki , Mittendorf Elizabeth A. , Gong Yun , Palla Shana L. , Tokuda Yutaka , Gonzalez-Angulo Ana M. , Hortobagyi Gabriel N. , Ueno Naoto T.
Published: November 2011

Purpose

We evaluated whether patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) –positive primary breast tumors had metastatic tumors that were HER2 positive (concordant) or HER2 negative (discordant). We then evaluated whether treatment with trastuzumab or chemotherapy before biopsy of the metastasis had any effect on the rate of HER2 discordance. We also compared the overall survival durations of patients with HER2-concordant and -discordant tumors.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively identified all patients who initially had been diagnosed with HER2-positive (immunohistochemistry 3+ and/or fluorescent in situ hybridization positive) primary breast cancer between 1997 and 2008 at MD Anderson Cancer Center who also had metastatic tumor biopsy results available for review.

Results

We included 182 patients who met our criteria. Forty-three (24%) of the 182 patients with HER2-positive primary tumors had HER2-negative metastatic tumors. The HER2 discordance rates differed significantly on the basis of whether patients received chemotherapy (P = .022) but not on the basis of whether patients received trastuzumab (P = .296). Patients with discordant HER2 status had shorter overall survival than did patients with concordant HER2 status (hazard ratio [HR], 0.43; P = .003). A survival difference remained among the 67 patients who received trastuzumab (HR, 0.56; P = .083) and 101 patients who did not (HR, 0.53; P = .033) before their metastasis biopsies.

Conclusion

We confirmed that loss of HER2-positive status in metastatic tumors can occur in patients with primary HER2-positive breast cancer. Our data strongly support the need for biopsies of metastatic lesions to accurately determine patient prognosis and appropriate use of targeted therapy.
Modeling Contextual Influences on Parents With Intellectual Disability and Their Children
Authors: Wade Catherine , Llewellyn Gwynnyth , Matthews Jan
Published: November 2011

Many parents with intellectual disability experience living conditions associated with risk for children and parents. This study used structural equation modeling to test a theoretical model of the relationships among parent, child, family, and contextual variables in 120 Australian families where a parent had an intellectual disability. Findings revealed that parenting practices had a direct effect on children's well being, that social support was associated with children's well being through the mediator of parenting practices, and that access to social support had a direct influence on parenting practices. Implications of the findings for research, intervention, and policy are explored, with the goal of promoting optimal well being for children who are raised by parents with intellectual disability.
Community analysis of preservative-treated southern pine (Pinus spp.) using terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis. Part 1: Fungal field study
Authors: Kirker Grant T. , Prewitt M. Lynn , Schultz Tor P. , Diehl Susan V.
Published: November 2011

The effects of chlorothalonil (CTN), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and ammoniacal copper quat (ACQ-C) on the fungal community on southern yellow pine (SYP) were assessed using terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis over 15 months. Field stakes, treated with 0.25 and 0.37% ACQ-C, 0.1 and 0.25% CTN, 2% BHT alone, 0.1 and 0.25% CTN combined with 2% BHT, and untreated controls, were installed in two field sites in Mississippi. Stakes were sampled at 90-day intervals and rated for decay damage. Fungal DNA was extracted and amplified by non-specific (total fungi) and specific (Basidiomycete) primers and processes for T-RFLP. a-Diversity (richness and diversity) and b-diversity (similarity between communities) were calculated by means of T-RFLP data. The presence of wood preservatives slowed the initial colonization of field stakes by total fungi, resulting in lower richness and diversity that increased over time; however, preservatives increased the richness and diversity of Basidiomycetes. The b-diversity of treated samples was less similar in the early stages of exposure (3–9 months), but coalesced over time into equilibrium communities that were similar to communities on untreated controls. Basidiomycete species compositions were different among treated samples while control communities shared more than 75% of their species. Correlations were found between depletion of 0.1% CTN and increasing fungal diversity, but no other significant correlations were found.
Sexual violence and associated factors among women in HIV discordant and concordant relationships in Uganda
Authors: Shuaib Faisal M.B. , Ehiri John E. , Jolly Pauline , Zhang Qionghui , Emusu Donath , Ngu Julius , Foushee Herman , Katongole Drake , Kirby Russell , Wabwire-Mangen Fred
Published: November 2011

HIV serodiscordance is a sexual partnership in which one partner is infected with HIV while the other is not. Managing emotional and sexual intimacy in HIV serodiscordant unions can be difficult due to concerns about HIV transmission and the challenge of initiating and maintaining safe sex. In situations where couples are jointly aware of their HIV status, women in serodiscordant unions may face increased risk of partner violence. We conducted an investigation to assess risk factors for HIV serodiscordance and determine if HIV serodiscordance is associated with incident sexual violence among a cohort of women attending HIV post-test club services at three AIDS Information Centers (AICs) in Uganda. Using a prospective study of 250 women, we elicited information about sexual violence using structured face-to-face interviews. Sexual violence and risk factors were assessed and compared among HIV positive women in HIV discordant unions, HIV negative women in discordant unions, and HIV negative women in negative concordant unions. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between participants’ serostatus and sexual violence. HIV negative women in serodiscordant relationships (36.1±11.1 years, range: 19–65 years) were significantly older than either HIV positive women in serodiscordant relationships (32.2±9.0 years, range: 18–56 years), or HIV negative women in concordant relationships (32.3±11.0 years, range: 18–62), (p=0.033). Early age at sexual debut was associated with a 2.4-fold increased risk of experiencing sexual violence (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.27–4.65). Based on unadjusted analysis, HIV positive women in discordant relationship were at highest risk for sexual violence compared to HIV negative women in discordant unions, and HIV negative women in negative concordant unions. HIV negative women in discordant relationships and those in concordant negative relationships showed no increased risk for sexual violence. However, couples’ HIV serostatus was not significant related to incident sexual violence after controlling for potential confounding covariates. Nevertheless, the results were able to elucidate the sexual violence risk factor profile of participants based on couples’ HIV serostatus. Couple counseling protocols at HIV voluntary counseling and testing centers in Uganda should identify those at risk for sexual violence and develop interventions to reduce its incidence.
Body weight satisfaction among New Zealand adolescents: findings from a national survey
Authors: Wood Amanda , Utter Jennifer , Robinson Elizabeth , Ameratunga Shanthi , Fleming Theresa , Denny Simon
Published: November 2011

Body dissatisfaction has been extensively studied but, recently, the importance of body satisfaction and its attributing factors has received significant recognition. Also, there is an increasing awareness of the need for research examining body dissatisfaction and satisfaction in youth other than North American females. Thus, the current research examined the prevalence of, and the individual, social, and familial factors associated with, body-weight satisfaction among New Zealand male and female adolescents (n=9107). Data were analysed from Youth ’07, a nationally representative survey of New Zealand secondary school students. Overall, half of students were happy with their weight, with significantly more males than females reporting body-weight satisfaction. Students happiest with their weight were most likely to report healthy and supportive social and family environments, as well as higher levels of well-being. These findings are consistent with a growing body of research that suggests creating positive peer and family environments may lead to better developmental outcomes, such as body satisfaction, and also higher levels of well-being.
Colonial connections and consulting engineers 1850–1914
Authors: Andersen Casper
Published: November 2011

The paper analyses colonial connections and networks of British consulting engineers. It unravels how consulting engineers operated within different imperial contexts, including settler colonies, Egypt and Crown colonies in West Africa in particular. The paper also examines the close and at times strained connections that existed between London's consulting engineers and British engineers stationed overseas in colonial public works departments. By examining the colonial connections of metropolitan engineers, the paper sheds light on a hitherto ignored factor that tied Britain and the colonies together during the diaspora of British engineering. It argues that personal connections and relations remained of paramount importance during this period, which has traditionally been described as characterised by growing professionalisation and a subsequent loss of the personal element in British engineering.
Briefing: Creating a key walking route through Covent Garden, London, UK
Authors: Long Tim
Published: November 2011

London's longest key walking route was built by the Clear Zone Partnership through Covent Garden, London, UK to encourage walking. Great Queen Street was a key measure built in September 2009 that broke new ground in street, traffic and inclusive design. Great Queen Street was the first scheme to remove traffic lights in London in the last decade, explain how to design shared space, show that shared space can work in busier streets, and demonstrate how to ensure good inclusive design.
Briefing: An urban bill of rights
Authors: Hudson Sharon
Published: November 2011

They say that the road to hell is paved with good intentions. There is no group of people more dedicated to making urban life humane and attractive than urban planners and designers. However, there is also no group that can do more damage to the cause of urban livability if they allow pet theories, resource management and utilitarian assumptions to set their course, rather than a full understanding of the fundamental needs of those they plan for – individual human beings. Popular planning prescriptions such as ‘smart growth,’ new urbanism, and transit-oriented development have largely lost touch with the human beings they are meant to serve. To articulate and safeguard the needs and rights of urban residents, therefore, the author proposes an urban bill of rights, summarised in this Briefing. The full explanation of the urban bill of rights can be found in the document entitled ‘Cities fit for people: the urban bill of rights,’ located at www.intbau.org and www.sharonhudson.com/urban_planning/Urban_Bill_of_Rights.html .