bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distress, defiance or adaptation? A review paper of at‐risk mental health states in young offenders
Authors: Casswell Miranda , French Paul , Rogers Andrew
Published: February 2012

Aim: This paper firstly aims to explore the prevalence of mental health problems in young offenders and secondly, to review the factors which mean a young offender is at risk of developing more serious and chronic mental health problems, including psychosis.

Methods: The literature in this field will be reviewed, and the highlighted risk factors explored in detail.

Results: Reviewing the evidence base highlights the complex needs of this population, as the prevalence of mental health problems in both detained and community‐based young offenders is high, with the presence of at least one mental health problem found in up to 92%. There is much data to suggest that young offenders have many of the risk indicators that would place them at risk of significant mental health problems according to previously identified criteria. Factors such as intellectual level, difficulties in school, substance abuse problems, exposure to trauma and problems understood within an attachment framework are explored.

Conclusion: The main conclusion is that this population have many risk factors which increase the possibility of developing serious mental health problems, therefore highlighting the need for early intervention.
Primulina xiziae sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Li Jian , Wang Yue , Hua Guo‐Jun , Wen Fang
Published: February 2012

A new species of Gesneriaceae, Primulina xiziae Fang Wen, Yue Wang & G. J. Hua, from Zhejiang Province, China, is identified, illustrated and described. It resembles the widespread P. eburnea, and the stenochoric P. pseudoeburnea, but differs by the leaf blades being ovate‐elliptic or ovate, chartaceous with ciliate margins, 8.5–13.8 mm long, slender peduncle, ovate, ca 1.2 × 1.0 cm large bracts that are generally withered but persistent before full‐blooming stage, slender tubular‐infundibuliform, ca 25.0 × 7.5 mm corolla tube, limb lobes with acute apices, 3 staminodes, and by forming a dormancy bud in winter.
Taxonomic studies on Asplenium sect. Thamnopteris (Aspleniaceae) II: spore morphology
Authors: Wei Ling‐Ling , Dong Shi‐Yong
Published: February 2012

Asplenium sect. Thamnopteris is a morphologically distinct group within Asplenium, however, the species delimitation within the section is difficult. To evaluate the utility of spore morphology in the taxonomy of Asplenium sect. Thamnopteris, we examined 64 samples representing ca 25 species using scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the spores are monolete and ellipsoidal in shape, and range between 35.7–50.1 × 24.1–32.4 µm in size. The perispore is morphologically very diverse but relatively stable within species. Based on the morphology of spores, we discuss the species concept of A. nidus L. and A. phyllitidis D. Don, propose a new combination (A. latibasis) for Neottopteris latibasis Ching, and treat A. phyllitidis subsp. malesicum Holttum, N. latibasis, N. latipes Ching ex S. H. Wu, and N. subantiqua Ching ex S. H. Wu as new synonyms. A key to all known species of sect. Thamnopteris is provided using characters of spore morphology.
Ligusticum gongshanense sp. nov. (Umbelliferae) from western Yunnan, China
Authors: Li Rong , Pu Fa‐Ding , Li Heng
Published: February 2012

Ligusticum gongshanense Pu, R. Li & H. Li, a new species of Umbelliferae from western Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. It is closely similar to L. franchetii H. de Boissieu, but differs by having unbranched and light yellow stem, white petals, and styles shorter than stylopodium.
Scanning transmission electron microscopy of biological structures
Authors: Colliex Christian , Mory Claudie
Published: February 2012

The design of the scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) has been conceived to optimize its detection efficiency of the different elastic and inelastic signals resulting from the interaction of the high energy primary electrons with the specimen. Its potential use to visualize and measure biological objects was recognized from the first studies by Crewe and coworkers in the seventies. Later the real applications have not followed the initial hopes. The purpose of the present paper is to describe how the instrument has practically evolved and recently begun to demonstrate all its potentialities for quantitative electron microscopy of a wide range of biological specimens, from freeze‐dried isolated macromolecules to unstained cryosections. Emphasis will be put on the mass‐mapping, multi‐signal and elemental mapping modes which are unique features of the STEM instruments.
Combined use of freeze‐fracture electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction for the structure determination of three‐dimensionally ordered specimens
Authors: Gulik‐Krzywicki Thaddée , Delacroix Hervé
Published: February 2012

The cubic phases of lipid‐water systems have been studied by freeze‐fracture electron microscopy. The preservation of the sample structure following cryofixation was verified by low temperature X‐ray diffraction. Different types of fracture planes were identified; all display highly ordered two‐dimensional domains, each subdivided into sub‐domains related to each other by displacements and rotations related to the symmetry of the space group. The images were filtered using cross‐correlation averaging techniques and the filtered images were compared to the corresponding planar sections of the electron density maps. Several conclusions were drawn: 1) when properly cryofixed, as assessed by low temperature X‐ray diffraction, the structure of the sample was well preserved in the replicas; 2) the symmetry of the space group was faithfully reflected in the electron microscope images; 3) the crystallographic orientations of the most frequently identified'fracture planes coincided with those of the most intense X‐ray reflections indicating that the fracture propagates, preferentially, in regions where the electron density variations are the largest; 4) when different structural models are compatible with X‐ray diffraction data, it is possible to determine the correct model by comparing the filtered images with sections of the corresponding electron density maps; and 5) this approach constitutes a new and powerful tool of general interest for the low resolution study of three‐dimensionally ordered specimens.
Electron cryo‐microscopy of vitrified biological specimens: towards high spatial and temporal resolution
Authors: Ruiz Teresa , Erk Inge , Lepault Jean
Published: February 2012

A decade after the development of electron cryo‐microscopy for vitrified specimens, its advantages and limitations are analysed. Indeed, recent work carried out by different laboratories strengthens the idea that electron cryo‐microscopy might soon be an alternative method to X‐ray crystallography and NMR techniques for determining the structure of biological assemblies with both high spatial and temporal resolutions. High pressure freezing allows vitrification of larger volumes of biological suspensions. Thick vitrified objects can be cryosectioned. Electron cryo‐microscopy of the sections gives images having a resolution better than 2 nm. Although the high resolution imaging mode under low dose conditions is not yet fully understood, microscopes are being developed to provide better and better images. Image averaging is being facilitated by the development of both crystallization and computer methods. Thus, we can expect that electron microscopy will soon become a potential technique for structural determination at atomic resolution. Finally, much effort is being devoted to improving the temporal resolution of electron cryo‐microscopy. Soon, we may be able to observe molecules during their biological activity.
Cryoelectron microscopy of macromolecular complexes
Authors: Wade Richard H , Hewat Elizabeth A
Published: February 2012

Although there are many macromolecular complexes which play extremely important roles in biology, and despite continued progress in X‐ray crystallographic and NMR methods, it is still very difficult to obtain atomic level structural information about such large assemblies. It is now clear that a powerful approach is to combine structural information obtained at different levels. Cryoelectron microscopy of frozen‐hydrated samples together with computer based 3‐D reconstruction can give structural information at the quaternary level. This can then be combined with atomic level structures of individual components, obtained by X‐ray crystallography or NMR to build‐up a detailed picture of the overall architecture of the complexes and of the interactions between the components. In our laboratory we are particularly interested in developing the complementarity between the different structural approaches. The aim of this short review is to briefly present our ongoing work using cryolectron microscopy of vitreous ice‐embedded samples as a quantitative tool to investigate the assembly and organization of two important biological structures, namely, microtubules and viruses, in particular the bluetongue virus.
Power and limits of laser scanning confocal microscopy
Authors: Laurent Michel , Johannin Georges , Gilbert Nathalie , Lucas Laurent , Cassio Doris , Petit Patrice X , Fleury Anne
Published: February 2012

In confocal microscopy, the object is illuminated and observed so as to rid the resulting image of the light from out‐of‐focus planes. Imaging may be performed in the reflective or in the fluorescence mode. Confocal microscopy allows accurate and nondestructive optical sectioning in a plane perpendicular or parallel to the optical axis of the microscope. Further digital three‐dimensional treatments of the data may be performed so as to visualize the specimen from a variety of angles. Several examples illustrating each of these possibilities are given. Three‐dimensional reconstitution of nuclear components using a cubic representation and a ray‐tracing based method are also given. Instrumental and experimental factors can introduce some bias into the acquisition of the 3‐D data set: self‐shadowing effects of thick specimens, spherical aberrations due to the sub‐optimum use of the objective lenses and photobleaching processes. This last phenomenon is the one that most heavily hampers the quantitative analysis needed for 3‐D reconstruction. We delineate each of these problems and indicate to what extent they can be solved. Some tips are given for the practice of confocal microscope and image recovery: how to determine empirically the thickness of the optical slices, how to deal with extreme contrasts in an image, how to prevent artificial flattening of the specimens. Finally, future prospects in the field are outlined. Particular mention of the use of pulsed lasers is made as they may be an alternative to UV‐lasers and a possible means to attenuate photodamage to biological specimens.
Presence of Chromatium vinosum chaperonins 10 and 60 in mitochondria and peroxisomes of rat hepatocytes
Authors: Vélez‐Granell Carlos S , Arias Ariel E , Torres‐Ruíz Joséa , Bendayan Moïse
Published: February 2012

Summary— In the present study we report the occurrence of chaperonins, cpn 10 and cpn60, in Chromatium vinosum and rat hepatocytes, using specific polyclonal antibodies in conjunction with the protein A‐gold immunocytochemical technique. As demonstrated by quantitative evaluations, the immunolabeling for cpn10 and cpn60 in C vinosum cells was associated primarily with the bacterial cell envelope. In rat liver homogenates, Western immunoblotting analysis has shown that antibodies to cpn10 from C vinosum recognize an unique 25‐kDa protein that remains to be further characterized. On the other hand, the antibody to cpn60 from C vinosum revealed the presence of a 60‐kDa protein in the rat liver homogenates. Immunofluorescence on rat liver tissue revealed an intracellular granular labeling for both chaperonins. On the other hand, using the post‐embedding immunoelectron microscopy technique cpn10 and cpn60 were localized specifically in liver mitochondria and peroxisomes. Interestingly, further analysis of the labeling distribution confirmed the association of both proteins with the mitochondrial inner membrane whereas in the peroxisomes the chaperonins appeared to be located in the matrix, away from the limiting peroxisomal membrane. The colocalization of both chaperonins suggests that, as in other bacteria as well as eukaryotic cells, they may act in tandem for the proper folding of particular proteins.
High resolution localization of cruzipain and Ssp4 in Trypanosoma cruzi by replica staining label fracture
Authors: Nascimento Alana E , de Souza Wanderley
Published: February 2012

Summary— The replica staining label fracture technique was used to analyse the distribution of cruzipain and Ssp4 in Trypanosoma cruzi. Intense labeling for the two proteins was seen on the E fracture face of amastigote forms. Gold particles did not co‐localize with the intramembranous particles. Labeling was abolished by previous treatment of the parasites with phospholipase C from Trypanosoma brucei, which removes glycosylphosphatidyl inositol (GPI) anchored proteins. These observations suggest that cruzipain and Ssp4 are attached to the parasite surface via a GPI anchor.
Effects of different vertebrate growth factors on primary cultures of hemocytes from the gastropod mollusc, Haliotis tuberculata
Authors: Lebel Jean‐Marc , Giard Wilfrid , Favrel Pascal , Boucaud‐Camou Eve
Published: February 2012

Summary— A useful experimental system from primary cultures of hemocytes from Haliotis tuberculata has been established. Six days after initiation of the culture, the viability of hemocytes remained constant as measured by the MTT assay. In addition, hemocytes showed physiological responses as judged by protein and DNA syntheses in response to treatment with vertebrate growth factors. Porcine insulin and human epidermal growth factor (EGF) stimulated [3H]‐leucine and [3H]‐thymidine incorporation in hemocytes in a dose‐dependent manner. No additive effect of insulin and EGF is observed either for [3H]‐leucine or for [3H]‐thymidine incorporation. The response of primary cultures of abalone hemocytes to vertebrate growth factors confirms their growth potential in vitro and provides a suitable model for further studies on regulation of the control of cellular processes such as cell growth, differentiation and migration in invertebrate cells.
A mutation (dosach) in Drosophila which affects aster formation and nuclear migration during cleavage
Authors: Craig Sarah S , Brink Neil G
Published: February 2012

Summary— Here we describe a new mutant, dosach (dos), in Drosophila melanogaster. In the mutant, centrosomes divide and initiate spindle formation similar to that seen in wild‐type embryos. Nevertheless, mutant embryos form cleavage spindles that lack visible asters and display abnormal morphology, including mono‐ and tri‐polar spindles, spindle chains and incorrect alignment. Irregular nuclear migration is also observed in mutant embryos, and this may suggest that astral microtubules are important for spindle spacing during cleavage and also in maintaining the integrity of the mitotic apparatus. Confocal microscopy has been used to correlate organization of microtubules, centrosomal proteins and chromosomes in wild‐type and dosach (dos) embryos.
Hyperplasia, hyperproliferation and decreased migration rate of colonic epithelial cells in mice fed a diet deficient in vitamin D
Authors: Sadava David , Remer Tanya , Petersen Kate
Published: February 2012

Summary— Low serum levels of vitamin D metabolites have been associated with an increased risk for colon cancer. To investigate the effects of vitamin D deficiency on the colon, 4‐week‐old mice were fed a diet either containing (100000 IU/kg diet) or lacking this vitamin for 3 weeks. Food consumption and body weight gain were similar in both groups. Following injection with 3H‐thymidine to label dividing cells, cellular proliferation and migration up the colonic crypt were determined autoradiographically. Although overall crypt lengths were similar in both groups, there was hyperplasia and hyperproliferation in crypts of the deficient animals. Also, their epithelial cells migrated up the crypt at a significantly slower rate (maximum 0.78 μm/h) than did those from control mice (1.42 μm/h). There was no difference in cellularity, proliferation or migration in duodenal epithelium. These results indicate that vitamin D deficiency significantly alters colonic but not duodenal epithelial cells.
Small GTP‐binding proteins in Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Jambou Ronan , Zahraoui Ahmed , Olofsson Birgitta , Tavitian Armand , Jaureguiberry Ginette
Published: February 2012

Summary— During its erythrocytic life cycle Plasmodium falciparum exchanges compounds with host cells through phagocytosis and exocytosis. In eucaryotic cells, small GTP‐binding proteins of the Ras superfamily appear to be involved in different steps of membrane trafficking and in intracellular signals. In this paper, we investigate the Rab4, Rab6 and Ras‐related proteins in P falciparum infected red cells. We report that P falciparum Rab and Ras‐related proteins could be distinguished from their counterparts by iso‐electrofocusing and immunoblotting. The localization of P falciparum Rab 4 and Rab 6 was studied by immunogold electron microscopy on ultrathin frozen sections of infected red blood cells. Rab4 parasite‐relate protein was found associated with the membranes of early endosome‐like structures near the parasite plasma membrane. Rab6‐related protein was associated with the Golgi/trans Golgi network, as already suggested by immunofluorescence microscopy studies and Ras‐related protein was cytoplasmic and plasma membrane‐associated. These results are in accordance with their mammalian counterparts and support the implication of Rab‐related proteins in vesicular trafficking in Plasmodium.
Immunocytochemical localization of arabinoxylans in the cell wall of maize apical internode after microbial degradation in the rumen
Authors: Migné Carole , Prensier Gérard , Cornu Agnès , Grenet Elisabeth
Published: February 2012

Summary— Arabinoxylans were localised by immunocytochemistry using polyclonal antibodies in the cell walls of the apical internode of maize after degradation in the rumen. In order to understand the significance of arabinoxylan in digestibility property, two lines of maize differing in digestibility were used. Wide variations in the intensity of labelling were observed in the four tissues studied (sclerenchyma, fibres, xylem and parenchyma) from the first hours of incubation in the rumen. Incubation time in the rumen greatly influences the intensity of labelling.
Iron therapy in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: BHANDARI SUNIL
Published: February 2012

Iron deficiency, both functional and absolute, is common in patients with chronic kidney disease and in those requiring dialysis. The Renal National Service Framework and National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence advocate treatment of anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease. Oral iron is often both insufficient and slow to improve hemoglobin levels while intravenous supplementation replenishes and maintains iron stores more effectively. This leads to a reduction in the use of erythropoietin stimulating agents. This reduction in erythropoietin stimulating agents use may be potentially beneficial in certain cases in particularly reducing stroke risk. In contrast, intravenous iron has the potential to improve quality of life, reduce cardiovascular risk and produce cost savings. However, long‐term clinical data are needed to reassure one of the effectiveness of parenteral iron therapy and exclude potential long‐term cellular and systemic adverse effects.
Donor disclosure – a donor's right and blood bank's responsibility
Authors: DONTULA SANJANA , MATHUR ANKIT , KAMALADOSS THEODORE , ADIMURTHY SIDDAPPA , JAGANNATHAN LATHA
Published: February 2012

Informing blood donors about their reactive test results of viral transfusion transmissible infections (TTI) is an important aspect of donor care. Rotary Bangalore TTK Blood Bank offers counseling and referrals to donors to enable them to avail of timely treatment options. Recognizing that donor disclosure is an important public health issue that especially impacts blood safety, we started a program for donor disclosure, counseling and referrals. The number of enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay reactive units in our blood bank in 2007 and 2008 were 0.78% [hepatitis B virus (HBV)], 0.12% [human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)], 0.18% [hepatitis C virus (HCV)], and 0.73% (HBV), 0.16% (HIV) and 0.18% (HCV), respectively. The reactive donors were informed of their test results and called for counseling.

Overall, 41.18% and 48.17% of HBV reactive donors attended counseling in 2007 and 2008, respectively. Only 11.11% and 16.22% of HIV reactive donors attending counseling in 2007 and 2008, respectively. The HCV reactive donors who attended counseling were 14.63% for both years. All reactive donors who attended counseling were referred to gastroenterologist or physician for confirmatory testing and further management. This study describes our experiences in counseling donors who were enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay reactive for viral TTI, and challenges faced in implementing the donor disclosure program in a resource‐limited environment.
A Nursing Conceptual Model for Contamination
Authors: Green Pauline M. , Polk Laura V.
Published: February 2012

PURPOSE:  To propose a nursing model of contamination that describes the key features of contamination at a level of abstraction needed for clinical decision making.

DATA SOURCES:  Relevant literature on contamination, biopreparedness, and classic epidemiologic literature were reviewed and analyzed.

DATA SYNTHESIS:  A model of contamination was created along with a description of benefits of use in practice, education, and research.

DISCUSSION:  The nursing profession is called to respond to contamination incidents on a local, national, and global level. Achieving optimum health outcomes while managing contamination incidents is enhanced by nurses' use of a model that incorporates six elements to identify and name instances of contamination and select suitable outcomes and interventions.
Implementation and Evaluation of the Nursing Process in Primary Health Care
Authors: Pérez Rivas Francisco Javier , Santamaría García José Ma , Minguet Arenas Cristina , Beamud Lagos Milagros , García López Montserrat
Published: February 2012

PURPOSE.  The purpose of this study is to publicize the experience of implementing and developing the nursing process in a sanitary area of primary health care (PHC), and to assess the outcomes reached during the past 9 years.

METHODS.  This descriptive longitudinal study was carried out in the 42 PHC centers in the 11th Primary Care Area of Madrid, Spain.

FINDINGS.  Between 2001 and 2009, 243,838 new nursing diagnoses were performed. The indicator of resolution capacity ranged from 75% to 80% for the attended problems.

CONCLUSIONS.  Nurses in the 11th PHC Area have effectively incorporated the nursing process as a work methodology in their caregiving practices.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE.  The nursing process can be used to identify nursing care issues and assess the capacity for resolution.

OBJETIVO.  El objetivo de este estudio es dar a conocer la experiencia de implantación y desarrollo del proceso enfermero en un Área Sanitaria de Atención Primaria (AP) y evaluar los resultados alcanzados en los últimos nueve años.

MÉTODOS.  Estudio descriptivo longitudinal, realizado en los 42 centros de AP del Área 11 de Madrid (España).

RESULTADOS.  Entre 2001 y 2009 se han realizado 243838 diagnósticos de enfermería. El indicador de capacidad de resolución se ha situado entre el 75 y el 80% de los problemas atendidos.

CONCLUSIONES.  Las enfermeras de AP del Área 11 han integrado el proceso enfermero como metodología de trabajo en su práctica asistencial.

IMPLICACIONES.  El proceso enfermero permite identificar problemas de cuidados y evaluar la capacidad de las enfermeras para su resolución.

PALABRAS CLAVE.  Proceso Enfermero, Diagnósticos de Enfermería, Atención Primaria, Investigación en Enfermería, Efectividad.
GRAVITATIONAL WAVES IN BRANEWORLD SCENARIOS WITH AdS BACKGROUND
Authors: AMARO DE FARIA A. C. , DA ROCHA R. , ALVES M. E. S. , DE ARAUJO J. C. N.
Published: February 2012

In this paper, we investigate gravitational waves as metric perturbations around a general warped five-dimensional background. We find an analytical solution in Randall–Sundrum braneworld model and analyze the implications of braneworld models in the gravitational waves propagation.
ON ϵ-CONJECTURE IN a-THEOREM
Authors: NAKAYAMA YU
Published: February 2012

The derivation of the a-theorem recently proposed by Komargodski and Schwimmer relies on the ϵ-conjecture that demands decoupling of dilaton from the rest of the infrared theory. We point out that the decoupling, if true, provides a strong evidence for the equivalence between scale invariance and conformal invariance in four dimensions. Thus, a complete proof of the a-theorem along the line of their argument in the most generic scenario would establish the equivalence between scale invariance and conformal invariance, which is another long-standing conjecture in four-dimensional quantum field theories.
NORMALIZATION IN TYPE-2 FUZZY RELATIONAL DATA MODEL BASED ON FUZZY FUNCTIONAL DEPENDENCY USING FUZZY FUNCTIONS
Authors: SAXENA P. C. , TAYAL D. K.
Published: February 2012

In fuzzy relational databases, the data dependencies, especially the fuzzy functional dependency(ffd) plays an important role in maintaining the consistency of the database and in avoiding the redundant storage of the data. In the past, it has been shown that the type-2 fuzzy relational databases captures impreciseness and incompleteness in data in a better way. The aim of this paper is to provide the concepts for database normalization in a type-2 fuzzy relational database, so that the normalized schemas can be obtained. Here, we deal with the fuzzy functional dependency(ffd) based normalization of type-2 fuzzy relational databases. We use the concepts of fuzzy functions to derive the fuzzy equality and using this fuzzy equality, we define a new definition of fuzzy functional dependency. First we discuss various approaches proposed by the researchers in this context and show why our fuzzy functional dependency is better, as compared to the earlier ffds proposed by the researchers. We call our ffd as non-0 LHS ffd. We identify an anomaly called "spurious ffd" and show that some of the significant contributions proposed by the earlier researchers are suffering from this anomaly, but the non-0 LHS ffd does not suffer from it. Then, we prove that the set of inference rules for the non-0 LHS ffd are sound and complete. We use the definition of non-0 LHS ffd in obtaining the first three normal forms upto BCNF for type-1 and type-2 fuzzy relational schemas. The result of the decomposition and the procedure to obtain the membership value of the decomposed relations is proposed. The associated concepts like the fuzzy key, fuzzy superkey, fuzzy foreign key are defined in terms of non-0 LHS ffd. On the basis of these concepts, we define full ffd, partial ffd etc. In the last, we show that in our case, the relationship of total-ordering between the three normal forms in classical relational databases is also observed.
EFFECTS OF CFRP REINFORCEMENTS ON THE BUCKLING BEHAVIOR OF THIN-WALLED STEEL CYLINDERS UNDER COMPRESSION
Authors: BHETWAL KRISHNA KUMAR , YAMADA SEISHI
Published: February 2012

This paper presents a novel way of strengthening thin-walled steel cylindrical shells against buckling during axial compression in which a small amount of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite, coated from both sides can increase the buckling strength effectively. The effects of the reinforcement and the angle of fiber orientation as well as initial geometric imperfections on the buckling load-carrying capacity have been made clear through the three kinds of analytical procedures; the conventional linear eigen value buckling analysis, the reduced stiffness (RS) buckling analysis and the fully nonlinear numerical experiments. These multiple treatments suggest obtaining valuable information for the design of FRP-based hybrid structural elements and discusses influence of FRP to increase the load-carrying capacity of the thin-walled metallic structures having complex buckling collapse behavior. This paper also discusses how the angle of fiber orientation affects on the buckling strength and the associated buckling modes of the thin-walled shells.
A RESOURCE-DEPENDENT COMPETITION MODEL: EFFECTS OF POPULATION PRESSURE AUGMENTED INDUSTRIALIZATION
Authors: AGARWAL MANJU , DEVI SAPNA
Published: February 2012

In this paper, a nonlinear mathematical model is proposed and analyzed to study the effects of population pressure augmented industrialization on the survival of competing species dependent on resource. It is assumed that the growths of competing species are logistic and carrying capacities increase with increase in the density of resource biomass. Further, it is assumed that the resource biomass too is growing logistically in the environment and its carrying capacity decreases with the increase in densities of competing species and industrialization. The growth rate of population pressure is assumed to be proportional to the densities of competing species. Stabilities of all equilibria and conditions which influence the permanence of the system are carried out using theory of differential equations. Numerical simulations are performed to accomplish our analytical findings. It is shown that the equilibrium density of resource biomass decreases as (i) the growth rate coefficient of population pressure increases (ii) the growth rate coefficient of industrialization due to population pressure increases and (iii) the growth rate coefficient of industrialization due to resource biomass increases. It is found that the competitive outcome alters with increase in the growth rate coefficient of population pressure. Decrease in the equilibrium densities of competing species is also noted with increase in the growth rate coefficient of industrialization due to resource biomass.
Structures of Usher Syndrome 1 Proteins and Their Complexes
Authors: Pan Lifeng , Zhang Mingjie
Published: February 2012

Usher syndrome 1 (USH1) is the most common and severe form of hereditary loss of hearing and vision. Genetic, physiological, and cell biological studies, together with recent structural investigations, have not only uncovered the physiological functions of the five USH1 proteins but also provided mechanistic explanations for the hearing and visual deficiencies in humans caused by USH1 mutations. This review focuses on the structural basis of the USH1 protein complex organization.
Adult-Brain-Derived Neural Stem Cells Grafting into a Vein Bridge Increases Postlesional Recovery and Regeneration in a Peripheral Nerve of Adult Pig
Authors: Liard Olivier , Segura Stéphanie , Sagui Emmanuel , Nau André , Pascual Aurélie , Cambon Melissa , Darlix Jean-Luc , Fusai Thierry , Moyse Emmanuel
Published: February 2012

We attempted transplantation of adult neural stem cells (ANSCs) inside an autologous venous graft following surgical transsection ofnervis cruraliswith 30 mm long gap in adult pig. The transplanted cell suspension was a primary culture of neurospheres from adult pig subventricular zone (SVZ) which had been labeledin vitrowith BrdU or lentivirally transferred fluorescent protein. Lesion-induced loss of leg extension on the thigh became definitive in controls but was reversed by 45–90 days after neurosphere-filled vein grafting. Electromyography showed stimulodetection recovery in neurosphere-transplanted pigs but not in controls. Postmortem immunohistochemistry revealed neurosphere-derived cells that survived inside the venous graft from 10 to 240 post-lesion days and all displayed a neuronal phenotype. Newly formed neurons were distributed inside the venous graft along the severed nerve longitudinal axis. Moreover, ANSC transplantation increased CNPase expression, indicating activation of intrinsic Schwann cells. Thus ANSC transplantation inside an autologous venous graft provides an efficient repair strategy.
On Generalised Interval‐Valued Fuzzy Soft Sets
Authors: Zhou Xiaoqiang , Li Qingguo , Guo Lankun
Published: February 2012

Soft set theory, initiated by Molodtsov, can be used as a new mathematical tool for
dealing with imprecise, vague, and uncertain problems. In this paper, the concepts of two types of
generalised interval‐valued fuzzy soft set are proposed and their basic properties are studied. The
lattice structures of generalised interval‐valued fuzzy soft set are also discussed. Furthermore, an
application of the new approach in decision making based on generalised interval‐valued fuzzy
soft set is developed.
Effect of Land Application of Phosphorus-Saturated Gypsum on Soil Phosphorus in a Laboratory Incubation
Authors: Grubb Karen L. , McGrath Joshua M. , Penn Chad J. , Bryant Ray B.
Published: February 2012

Agricultural drainage ditches can deliver high loads of phosphorus (P) to surface water. Installation of filter structures containing P sorbing materials (PSMs), including gypsum, is an emerging practice that has shown promise to reduce these P loads. The objective of this study was to evaluate what effect soil amendment with gypsum would have on soil P concentrations and forms in a laboratory incubation experiment. Gypsum was saturated at two levels with P, and applied to a silt loam and a sandy loam at two rates. The treated soils were incubated in the laboratory at 25°C, and samples were collected on eight dates between 0 and 183 days after amendment. Spent gypsum application did not significantly increase soil water-extractable or Mehlich 3 P when applied at typical agronomic rates. This appears to be a viable strategy to remove P from agricultural drainage waters but does not appear to provide any additional P fertilizer value.
The Impact of Blue Inorganic Pigments on the Microwave Electrical Properties of Polymer Composites
Authors: Costa L. C. , Henry F.
Published: February 2012

We present the results of the measurement of complex dielectric permittivity, in the microwave frequency region, on glass reinforced polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) with blue inorganic pigments. The cavity resonant method had been used in order to measure the shift in the resonant frequency of the cavity, caused by the insertion of a sample, which can be related to the real part of the complex permittivity. Also, the quality factor of the cavity decreases with the insertion of a sample. The changes in the inverse of this quality factor give the imaginary part. In order to predict the dielectric behavior of this composite, we had developed a program of numerical simulation to calculate the complex permittivity of the inclusion. By using some of dielectric mixture laws (Maxwell-Wagner-Sillars, Hanai, Looyenga, inverse and direct Wiener, and Bruggemann), we can predict the dielectric behavior of the composite in a large range of volume fraction of inclusions.
On q‐Gevrey Asymptotics for Singularly Perturbed q‐Difference‐Differential Problems with an Irregular Singularity
Authors: Lastra Alberto , Malek Stéphane
Published: February 2012

We study a q‐analog of a singularly perturbed Cauchy problem with irregular singularity
in the complex domain which generalizes a previous result by Malek in (2011). First, we construct solutions defined in open q‐spirals to the origin. By means of a q‐Gevrey version of Malgrange‐Sibuya theorem we show the existence of a formal power series in the perturbation parameter which turns out to be the q‐Gevrey asymptotic expansion (of certain type) of the actual solutions.
An Iterative Method for Solving a System of Mixed Equilibrium Problems, System of Quasivariational Inclusions, and Fixed Point Problems of Nonexpansive Semigroups with Application to Optimization Problems
Authors: Sunthrayuth Pongsakorn , Kumam Poom
Published: February 2012

We introduce a general implicit iterative scheme base on viscosity approximation method with a ϕ‐strongly pseudocontractive mapping for finding a common element of the set of solutions for a system of mixed equilibrium problems, the set of common fixed point for a nonexpansive semigroup, and the set of solutions of system of variational inclusions with set‐valued maximal monotone mapping and Lipschitzian relaxed cocoercive mappings in Hilbert spaces. Furthermore, we prove that the proposed iterative algorithm converges strongly to a common element of the above three sets, which is a solution of the optimization problem related to a strongly positive bounded linear operator.
The Role of Dermcidin Isoform 2: A Two-Faceted Atherosclerotic Risk Factor for Coronary Artery Disease and the Effect of Acetyl Salicylic Acid on It
Authors: Ghosh Rajeshwary , Maji Uttam K. , Bhattacharya Rabindra , Sinha Asru K.
Published: February 2012

Hypertension and diabetes mellitus are considered to be two major atherosclerotic risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD). A stress-induced protein identified to be dermcidin isoform 2 of Mr. 11 kDa from blood plasma of hypertensive persons when injected (0.1 μM) in rabbits increased the systolic pressure by 77% and diastolic pressure by 45% over the controls within 2 h. Ingestion of acetyl salicylic acid (150 mg/70 kg) by these subjects reduced systolic (130 mm Hg) and diastolic pressures (80 mm Hg) with reduction of plasma dermcidin level to normal ranges (9 nM). The protein was found to be a potent activator of platelet cyclooxygenase and inhibited insulin synthesis. Aspirin was found to reduce hypertension by reduction of plasma dermcidin level, neutralized the effect of cyclooxygenase, and restored the pancreatic insulin synthesis through NO synthesis. These results indicated that dermcidin could be a novel atherosclerotic risk factor for its hypertensive and diabetogenic effects.
Uncertainties, Trends, and Hottest and Coldest Years of U.S. Surface Air Temperature since 1895: An Update Based on the USHCN V2 TOB Data
Authors: Shen Samuel S. P. , Lee Christine K. , Lawrimore Jay
Published: February 2012

This paper estimates the sampling error variances of gridded monthly U.S. Historical Climatology Network, version 2 (USHCN V2), time-of-observation-biases (TOB)-adjusted data. The analysis of mean surface air temperature (SAT) assesses uncertainties, trends, and the rankings of the hottest and coldest years for the contiguous United States in the period of 1895–2008. Data from the USHCN stations are aggregated onto a 2.5° × 3.5° latitude–longitude grid by an arithmetic mean of the stations inside a grid box. The sampling error variances of the gridded monthly data are estimated for every month and every grid box with data. The gridded data and their sampling error variances are used to calculate the contiguous U.S. averages and their trends and associated uncertainties. The sampling error variances are smaller (mostly less than 0.2°C2) over the eastern United States, where the station density is greater and larger (with values of 1.3°C2 for some grid boxes in the earlier period) over mountain and coastal areas. In the period of 1895–2008, every month from January to December has a positive linear trend. February has the largest trend of 0.162°C (10 yr)−1, and September has the smallest trend at 0.020°C (10 yr)−1. The three hottest (coldest) years measured by the mean SAT over the United States were ranked as 1998, 2006, and 1934 (1917, 1895, and 1912).
Impact of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation, Indian Ocean Dipole, and Southern Annular Mode on Daily to Subdaily Rainfall Characteristics in East Australia
Authors: Pui Alexander , Sharma Ashish , Santoso Agus , Westra Seth
Published: February 2012

The relationship between seasonal aggregate rainfall and large-scale climate modes, particularly the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), has been the subject of a significant and ongoing research effort. However, relatively little is known about how the character of individual rainfall events varies as a function of each of these climate modes. This study investigates the change in rainfall occurrence, intensity, and storm interevent time at both daily and subdaily time scales in east Australia, as a function of indices for ENSO, the Indian Ocean dipole (IOD), and the southern annular mode (SAM), with a focus on the cool season months. Long-record datasets have been used to sample a large variety of climate events for better statistical significance. Results using both the daily and subdaily rainfall datasets consistently show that it is the occurrence of rainfall events, rather than the average intensity of rainfall during the events, which is most strongly influenced by each of the climate modes. This is shown to be most likely associated with changes to the time between wet spells. Furthermore, it is found that despite the recent attention in the research literature on other climate modes, ENSO remains the leading driver of rainfall variability over east Australia, particularly farther inland during the winter and spring seasons. These results have important implications for how water resources are managed, as well as how the implications of large-scale climate modes are included in rainfall models to best capture interannual and longer-scale variability.
A Case Study of the Cutoff Process and Latent Heating Effect in an Upper-Level Cold-Core Low during the Mei-Yu Season in East Asia
Authors: Yin-Mao Wang Mark , Tai-Jen Chen George , Wang Chung-Chieh , Kuo Ying-Hwa
Published: February 2012

Using observational data and model sensitivity test, the present study diagnosed the evolution of an upper-level trough over 2–7 May 1998 during the mei-yu season in East Asia, with a focus on the role of latent heating downstream from the trough on the cutoff process and the formation of the cold-core low (CCL). Compared with conceptual models based on dry dynamics, the formation process of this cutoff low (COL) was inconsistent with the model of migratory jet streak–trough interaction, but the evolution of the upper-level trough (including its narrowing and rotation of axis) and the scale of the resultant COL generally agreed with the theory of interaction between trough and mean westerly flow with anticyclonic background shear. East/southeast of the trough, active and persistent convection appeared and induced 1) divergent ageostrophic flow near the tropopause, 2) an increase in mid- to upper-level thickness due to effective heating, and 3) amplification of an upper-level ridge downstream. Through a model sensitivity test, the diabatic heating is suggested to play a key role in the formation of the current CCL as the trough moved and extended southeastward to approach the amplifying ridge. Because of the east/southeast ageostrophic flow, the trough encountered a critical layer and became distorted, and its southern segment eventually detached to form a COL. When latent heating is turned off, the model produced a trough evolution anticipated by the dry theory but without cutoff. Such a role played by the moist process downstream of the trough during cutoff in the mei-yu season has not been previously noted in the literature.
Temperature Effect on the Reorientational Correlation Time of Water in Formamide– and N,N-Dimethylformamide–Water Mixtures
Authors: Okada Masaki , Ibuki Kazuyasu , Ueno Masakatsu
Published: February 2012

NMR spin–lattice relaxation times (T1) for nucleus D of D2O in FA-d3–D2O and DMF–D2O mixtures were measured up to 80 mol % of amide at 5, 25, and 45 °C under atmospheric pressure. To discuss the dynamic behavior of water molecules in the mixtures in detail, the reorientational correlation times (τc) of D2O molecules were estimated from the quadrupole coupling equation. In FA-d3–D2O mixtures, τc increased monotonously with increasing FA content at 25 and 45 °C, while we can recognize a shallow minimum at 5 °C in the D2O-rich region. In DMF–D2O mixtures, τc showed a remarkable maximum in the composition dependence at each temperature. In order to investigate the effect of the microscopic environments on the reorientational dynamics of water molecules, we calculated τc for individual environments through the MD simulations. From these results, we discussed the effects of hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions on the molecular reorientational dynamics.
Rapid Synthesis and Charge–Discharge Properties of LiMnPO4 Nanocrystallite-embedded Porous Carbons
Authors: Aono Shintaro , Urita Koki , Yamada Hirotoshi , Moriguchi Isamu
Published: February 2012

LiMnPO4 nanocrystallite-embedded porous carbons were successfully synthesized within a few minutes by a microwave-heating process. The nanocomposites showed higher charge–discharge capacity and better rate capability than bulk-LiMnPO4 particles synthesized in a similar manner without porous carbons.
One-touch Nanofabrication of Regular-sized Disks through Interfacial Dewetting and Weak Molecular Interaction
Authors: Mori Taizo , Sakakibara Keita , Endo Hiroshi , Akada Misaho , Okamoto Ken , Shundo Atsuomi , Lee Michael V , Ji Qingmin , Fujisawa Takuya , Oka Ken-ichiro , Matsumoto Mutsuyoshi , Sakai Hideki , Abe Masahiko , Hill Jonathan P , Ariga Katsuhiko
Published: February 2012

Nanodisks with uniform height and tunable diameter on the nanometer scale were constructed without any lithographic processes. The disks consisting of an amphiphilic triimide module were formed at the air–water interface in the presence of cyclen as an aqueous shackle and transferred onto substrates by the surface-touching (Langmuir–Schaefer) technique. The 3 nm height of the disks was maintained, whereas the diameter was tunable from 45 to 74 nm by varying surface pressures.
MRI of the cervical spine with neck extension: is it useful?
Authors: Bartlett R J V , Hill C A Rowland , Rigby A S , Chandrasekaran S , Narayanamurthy H
Published: February 2012

Objectives: Standard MRI of the cervical spine is performed in a different anatomical position to that utilised for traditional contrast myelography. Those well practised in myelography are familiar with the considerable changes in configuration of the bony and soft tissues of the cervical spine that may occur with changes in the degree of neck flexion and extension. We set out to compare the findings in a select group of patients with myeloradiculopathy who had undergone myelography and MRI in both standard and neck-extended positions. These findings were correlated with the clinical status.

Methods: 29 patients underwent myelography with CT (CTM) and MRI in neutral and neck-extended positions. The imaging was assessed for the degree of cord compression and neural foraminal narrowing, quantified using a simple grading scheme suitable for routine clinical practice. The degree of neck extension was assessed using an angular measurement.

Results: For both CTM and MRI, scanning with the neck extended significantly increases the severity of cord compression compared with the standard supine position, to a degree similar to that shown during conventional prone myelography. The degree of perceived cord compression is related to the degree of neck extension achieved. Correlation of standard MRI findings and the clinical level of radiculopathy is poor. This correlation improves when the neck is extended.

Conclusions: The most appropriate position for routine MRI of the cervical spine in degenerative disease remains unknown, but in selected patients imaging with the neck extended may provide important additional information.