bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Required time response of a variable valve actuator equiping a hybrid pneumatic–combustion engine
Authors: Basbous Tammam , Younes Rafic , Ilinca Adrian , Perron Jean
Published: July 2012

This work is a part of a research program that aims to modify a conventional internal combustion engine and turn it into a hybrid pneumatic–combustion engine. The hybrid pneumatic–combustion engine should be able to convert mechanical energy into compressed air and convert compressed air back into mechanical energy. The potential application for the concept is any use of the internal combustion engine where the load oscillates between a negative and a positive value, such as automobiles and hybrid wind diesel systems for remote area power generation. In the first application, during vehicle decelerations, an excess of power occurs, and a negative load could be applied to the engine, whereas during vehicle accelerations, a positive load is applied. In the second application, if the generated wind power is higher than consumption demand, then the load applied to the engine could be negative, and if the generated wind power is lower than consumption demand, then the load is positive. In previous work, we exposed an optimization followed by a fuel-saving evaluation of a new hybrid pneumatic–combustion engine concept that uses a variable valve actuator system. The optimization of the valve actuation was based on ideal thermodynamic cycle modeling, assuming therefore an instant response of the variable valve actuator system. In the present work, a more realistic analysis of the system is provided by taking into consideration the dynamic response of the variable valve actuator system.

Variable valve actuators have been widely studied for optimizing performance and fuel consumption of the internal combustion engine, especially in spark-ignition engines. For these engines, it is possible to reduce the pumping losses and to optimize the engine filling by controlling the intake and exhaust valve opening and closing angles, as well as their lifts. However, the variation of valve actuation crank angles required in a conventional internal combustion engine is significantly smaller than the one required in the hybrid pneumatic–combustion engine. This paper describes, through simulation, how the valve time response affects the performance of the hybrid pneumatic–combustion engine and recommends a required valve time response.
Internal media, conceptual metaphors and minority cultural identities
Authors: Wilson John , Hay Martin
Published: July 2012

In recent times we have witnessed a growth in the number of groups who are calling for cultural recognition on the basis of a putative discrete ethnicity. In this article we examine one such group, the ‘Ulster-Scots’ in Northern Ireland. We examine how this group metaphorically conceptualize their identity within their internal press media output, specifically the monthly publication The Ulster-Scot. Drawing on the conceptual metaphor approach of Lakoff and Johnson, which argues that metaphors are central to how we define and understand our everyday world, we examine the discursive construction of an Ulster-Scots collective identity and history through an analysis of the metaphors employed. We argue that a focus on the use of conceptual metaphors within discourses of ethnicity provides a valuable insight into ethnic self-understanding at a given point in time, and that, consequently, this approach is a valuable addition to the analytic repertoire for researchers concerned with issues of emergent ethnicity and the construction ethnic identities in general.
Reference ship selection for the on-time performance benchmarking of ships
Authors: Prabhu Gaonkar Rajesh S , Xie Min , Majumdar Indranil
Published: July 2012

The on-time performance of a ship is one of the major aspects of a ship’s operational reliability. The establishment of proper benchmarking for it would help the ship’s stakeholders to a considerable extent with respect to enhancement of the performance. This paper investigates and suggests a methodology for selection of a ship as a point of reference, so that improvement in the on-time performance of other ships could be achieved. The issue is addressed through comparative studies of ships, exclusively from an on-time performance viewpoint. The paper proposes a structure that would guide the development of a support system for improvement in the operational reliability of a ship. The on-time performance of a ship is expressed in terms of 12 primary attributes signifying the diverse aspects of its operational reliability. Four ships of like characteristics voyaging between Singapore and Japan are considered for the study and an assessor’s objective and subjective responses to the attributes are collected for these ships. The fuzzy analytical hierarchy process is used to allot priority weights to all the attributes, and then an evidential reasoning procedure is applied to obtain the utility values of the ships. Based on the utility values, comparison is carried out and the best of the four ships is selected as the reference ship for the marine sector under investigation. The proposed framework would be useful for enhancement of the ship’s operational efficiency, reliability and performance. It would also help the ship’s stakeholders in terms of better scheduling and proper management of the ship’s arrival at the destination harbour.
What determines the trust of immigrants in criminal justice institutions in Europe?
Authors: Röder Antje , Mühlau Peter
Published: July 2012

This study examines whether the confidence of immigrants in European countries in criminal justice institutions can be explained by two counteracting processes: expectations formed in the country of origin and discrimination experienced in the residence country. The study draws on the pooled waves of the European Social Survey (2002–8), comparing first- and second-generation immigrants from 66 countries of origin with natives in 21 residence countries. Multi-level regressions are employed to examine the relationship between confidence in institutions and proxy variables for the processes under study. The data strongly support the hypothesis that the high confidence of first-generation immigrants can be explained by frames of reference formed in the country of origin. Some, but limited, support is also found for the impact of discrimination.
Trials of loyalty: Ethnic minority police officers as ‘outsiders’ within a greedy institution
Authors: Peterson Abby , Uhnoo Sara
Published: July 2012

In this article we interrogate how ethnicity interfaces with the police culture in a major Swedish police force. While addressing administrative levels, in particular police security officers’ screening of new recruits, we focus on the role that loyalty plays in defining how ethnicity interacts with mechanisms of exclusion and inclusion in the structures of rank-and-file police culture. The police authorities, perceived as ‘greedy institutions’, demand and enforce exclusive loyalty. We argue that ethnic minority officers are rigorously tested as regards their loyalty to their fellow officers and to the police organization, and the demands made on their undivided loyalty and the misgivings as to their unstinting loyalty act as barriers to inclusion in the organization.
The impact of performance management culture on prison-based Therapeutic Communities
Authors: Shefer Guy
Published: July 2012

Based on a focused ethnographic study, this paper demonstrates how performance measurement culture affects the programme integrity of two English prison-based Therapeutic Communities. The study reveals how completion targets limited staff discretion in both programmes, although the two handled these pressures through different strategies. The paper analyses the factors that shaped these strategies and their consequences. It is argued that, whatever the reasons behind the recent flourishing of rehabilitation programmes in prison, their day-to-day monitoring reflects a highly managerialistic approach. Although the promotion of an entirely ‘target-less’ rehabilitation environment may not be realistic, the paper suggests that over-reliance on completion targets can be highly damaging to the fidelity of the implementation of such programmes.
The effect of labour market absence on finding employment: A comparison between ex-prisoners and unemployed future prisoners
Authors: Ramakers Anke , van Wilsem Johan , Apel Robert
Published: July 2012

A period of labour market absence reduces one’s chances of getting a job. The labour market position of both imprisoned and unemployed individuals tends to worsen after their time out of the labour market. This study considers whether imprisonment has ‘scarring’ effects on job acquisition over and above unemployment. Using a unique quasi-experimental design with a high-risk sample, we conduct event history analyses in order to estimate the time to employment for a group of ex-prisoners ( n = 1159) and a group of unemployed future prisoners ( n = 271). The results show that ex-prisoners find employment more quickly and more often than unemployed future prisoners. This suggests that job assistance and deterrence may have positive effects on the job chances of released prisoners.
‘Man’s best possession’: Period effects in the association between marriage and offending
Authors: Beijers Joris , Bijleveld Catrien , van Poppel Frans
Published: July 2012

We assess to what extent the associations between marriage and offending differ for high-risk men marrying in two distinct periods: 1930–70 and 1971–2006. Between these two periods, power relations between the sexes, laws governing marriage and in general the role and expectations attached to marriage differed. Based on these differences, we argue that – following two explanations for the ‘marriage effect’, that is the control and the social capital explanation – a different effect of marriage is expected for the two marriage cohorts. Our results confirm these expectations and thus provide support for both explanations.
Survival Benefit of Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine (a Herbal Formula for Invigorating Spleen) for Patients With Advanced Gastric Cancer
Authors: Xu Yan , Zhao Ai Guang , Li Zhao Yan , Zhao Gang , Cai Yong , Zhu Xiao Hong , Cao Ni Da , Yang Jin Kun , Zheng Jian , Gu Yin , Han Ying Ying , Zhu Ying Jie , Yang Jin Zu , Gao Feng , Wang Qiang
Published: July 2012

Background. Traditional Chinese herbal medicine (TCHM) is widely used for advanced gastric cancer (AGC) in China. In this study, the authors analyzed the prognostic factors of selected patients with AGC, and further studied the efficacy of TCHM (a herbal formula for invigorating spleen, formerly named Wei Chang’ An) on AGC. Methods. Patients with uncured AGC were prospectively enrolled. All patients were enrolled to either the TCHM group or non-TCHM group. TCHM was administered orally to the patients in the TCHM group for 3 months or more. Cox regression analysis was performed to determine survival trends adjusted for clinical and demographic factors. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to assess the differences in survival time. Results. There were a total of 399 eligible patients with histologically confirmed adenocarcinoma of the stomach from 2001 to 2009. In the overall group, Cox regression analysis suggested that histological type ( P = .016), radiotherapy ( P = .000), cycle of chemotherapy ( P = .000), and TCHM ( P = .000) were independent prognostic factors. In a stratification analysis of stage for 213 patients who received 3 or more cycles of chemotherapy, there was a significant increase in median overall survival from 14.0 (non-TCHM group) to 20.0 (TCHM group) months (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.538, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.385-0.750, P = .000). Among 186 patients who did not receive chemotherapy, but best supportive care, there was a significant increase in median overall survival from 7.0 (non-TCHM group) to 14.8 (TCHM group) months (HR = 0.443, 95% CI = 0.299-0.657, P = .000). Conclusions. TCHM has an important potential value for improving the prognosis of patients with AGC.
Same-Sex Sexual Behaviors Among Male Migrants in a Context of Male “Marriage Squeeze”
Authors: Yang Xueyan , Attané Isabelle , Li Shuzhuo , Yang Bo
Published: July 2012

The male marriage squeeze in China may increase the prevalence of male same-sex sexual behaviors among unmarried male migrants who lack stable female sexual partners. The same-sex sexual behaviors among unmarried male migrants appear to be at high risk of transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), mainly because of a lack of knowledge of these diseases. Using data from the “Survey on Reproductive Health and Family Life of Migrant Male Bachelors in Urban Areas” conducted in Xi’an City, Shaanxi Province, in December 2009 and January 2010, this study compares same-sex sexual behaviors of unmarried with that of married male migrants (including married but separated men who are migrating without their spouse or partner and cohabitating men who are migrating with their spouse or partner). It is reported that the prevalence of same-sex sexual behaviors among unmarried males reaches 11%, more than twice the 5.1% reported by married but separated men and thrice the 3.8% reported by cohabitating men. It also appears that the same-sex sexual behaviors is significantly associated with men’s attitudes toward same-sex sexual behaviors (odds ratio = 1.59, p < .001), toward life-long bachelorhood (odds ratio = 1.35, p < .01), and with marital status (odds ratio = 0.37, p < .01). The frequency of condom use appears to be higher among unmarried men than among men who are married, whether or not they migrated with their wives, and is significantly associated with scores on knowledge about HIV/AIDS (estimated coefficient = .12, p < .001) and STIs (estimated coefficient = .22, p < .01). It is also associated with the likelihood of same-sex sexual behaviors (estimated coefficients = .83, p < .01) and marital status (estimated coefficients for married but separated = −.50, p < .05; estimated coefficients for cohabitating = −.77, p < .001).
A study on the surface modification of a specialized porous silicon membrane
Authors: Wu Zonglin , Wang Xiaohong , Zhou Yan’an , Liu Litian
Published: July 2012

The surface modification of a porous silicon membrane is presented in this paper. The base porous silicon membrane is fabricated by anodization and has a range of pore sizes and porosities. In order to change its wettability, the surface of the porous silicon membrane is modified using silane-octadecyl-trichlorosilane. The average contact angle of the modified porous silicon membrane against water exceeds 126°. This modified membrane is incorporated to form part of the anode plate in a novel passive micro direct methanol fuel cell. Its use leads to a decrease in methanol crossover and an increase in the operating time.
A shell of memory: The Cyprus conflict and Nicosia’s walled city
Authors: Bakshi Anita
Published: July 2012

There are important reciprocities between conflict and memory, which often become embedded in disputed places or territories central to ethnonational conflicts. In Cyprus, the conflict and the subsequent division of the capital city of Nicosia, has disrupted the relationship between place and memory, as populations faced upheaval and displacement. The inability to cross the border running through the city center, from 1974 until checkpoints opened in 2003, resulted in the intensification of many aspects of memory, including forgetting, nostalgia and screen memory as related to the city. This article will describe Nicosia’s historic walled city center as a shell of memory by examining the material reality of the city today and investigating subjective constructions whereby the graphic image of the walled city is used as a symbol. The contested walled city is a site that negotiates between remembering and forgetting, between past and present, and between inside and outside.
Altered phenotype in peripheral blood and tumor-associated NK cells from colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Rocca Yamila S , Roberti María P , Arriaga Juan M , Amat Mora , Bruno Luisina , Pampena María B , Huertas Eduardo , Loria Fernando Sánchez , Pairola Alejandro , Bianchini Michele , Mordoh José , Levy Estrella M
Published: July 2012

Despite NK cells being originally identified because of their ability to kill tumor cells in vitro, only limited information is available on NK cells infiltration of malignant tumors, especially in humans. NK cells infiltrating human colorectal carcinomas (CRCs) were analyzed to identify their potential protective role in an antitumor immune response. The expression and function of relevant molecules were analyzed from different sources, comparing tumor-associated NK cells (TANKs) with autologous peripheral blood NK cells (PB-NKs) from CRC patients—the latter in comparison with PB-NKs from normal donors. TANKs displayed a profound alteration of their phenotype with a drastic reduction of NK cell receptor expression. Co-culture experiments showed that CRC cells produce modulation in NK phenotype and functionality. Moreover, PB-NKs from CRC patients also exhibited an altered phenotype and profound defects in the ability to activate degranulation and IFN-γ production. For the first time, TANK and PB-NK cells from CRC patients have been characterized. It is shown that they are not capable of producing relevant cytokines and degranulate. Taken together, our results suggest that NK cells from CRC patients present alterations of phenotype and function therefore supporting the progression of cancer.
Negotiating Control
Authors: Pfetsch Barbara , Voltmer Katrin
Published: July 2012

After the demise of communist rule the relationship between media and politics in Eastern European countries has to adjust to the conditions of democratic politics and a competitive communication environment. This study explores how journalists and politicians understand their relationship past and present and what orientations govern their day-to-day interactions. The political communication cultures in Bulgaria and Poland are investigated on the basis of semi-structured interviews with journalists and politicians. The findings suggest that in Bulgaria closed-knitted networks between the two sets of actors continue to shape political communication breeding ‘deals’ and even corruption that seriously undermine the independence of political journalism. In contrast, political communication roles in Poland appear more differentiated making it more difficult for political actors to exercise control over the public agenda.
Physical Pain and Guilty Pleasures
Authors: Bastian Brock , Jetten Jolanda , Stewart Elizabeth
Published: July 2012

Across two studies, the authors show that simply experiencing physical pain facilitates indulgence in guilty pleasures. This is because people feel justified in rewarding themselves when they are the victims of unfair treatment and concepts of punishment are embodied within the experience of physical pain. Study 1 demonstrates that pain leads to self-reward but only in contexts that frame the experience of pain as “unjust.” Study 2 shows that after pain people are more likely to self-reward with guilty pleasures (chocolate) in preference to other kinds of rewards (a pen). The authors find that this effect is only evident for people who are especially sensitivity to personal injustice. The findings provide support for the notion that painful experiences may increase entitlement to rewards through implicit activation of justice-related concepts, allowing people to take liberty with pleasures that might otherwise arouse feelings of guilt.
Cysteine peptidases and their inhibitors in Tetranychus urticae: a comparative genomic approach
Authors: Santamaría María Estrella , Hernández-Crespo Pedro , Ortego Félix , Grbic Vojislava , Grbic Miodrag , Diaz Isabel , Martinez Manuel
Published: July 2012

Background

Cysteine peptidases in the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae are involved in essential physiological processes, including proteolytic digestion. Cystatins and thyropins are inhibitors of cysteine peptidases that modulate their activity, although their function in this species has yet to be investigated. Comparative genomic analyses are powerful tools to obtain advanced knowledge into the presence and evolution of both, peptidases and their inhibitors, and could aid to elucidate issues concerning the function of these proteins.

Results

We have performed a genomic comparative analysis of cysteine peptidases and their inhibitors in T. urticae and representative species of different arthropod taxonomic groups. The results indicate: i) clade-specific proliferations are common to C1A papain-like peptidases and for the I25B cystatin family of inhibitors, whereas the C1A inhibitors thyropins are evolutionarily more conserved among arthropod clades; ii) an unprecedented extensive expansion for C13 legumain-like peptidases is found in T. urticae; iii) a sequence-structure analysis of the spider mite cystatins suggests that diversification may be related to an expansion of their inhibitory range; and iv) an in silico transcriptomic analysis shows that most cathepsin B and L cysteine peptidases, legumains and several members of the cystatin family are expressed at a higher rate in T. urticae feeding stages than in embryos.

Conclusion

Comparative genomics has provided valuable insights on the spider mite cysteine peptidases and their inhibitors. Mite-specific proliferations of C1A and C13 peptidase and I25 cystatin families and their over-expression in feeding stages of mites fit with a putative role in mite’s feeding and could have a key role in its broad host feeding range.
A review of the reporting and handling of missing data in cohort studies with repeated assessment of exposure measures
Authors: Karahalios Amalia , Baglietto Laura , Carlin John B , English Dallas R , Simpson Julie A
Published: July 2012

Background

Retaining participants in cohort studies with multiple follow-up waves is difficult. Commonly, researchers are faced with the problem of missing data, which may introduce biased results as well as a loss of statistical power and precision. The STROBE guidelines von Elm et al. (Lancet, 370:1453-1457, 2007); Vandenbroucke et al. (PLoS Med, 4:e297, 2007) and the guidelines proposed by Sterne et al. (BMJ, 338:b2393, 2009) recommend that cohort studies report on the amount of missing data, the reasons for non-participation and non-response, and the method used to handle missing data in the analyses. We have conducted a review of publications from cohort studies in order to document the reporting of missing data for exposure measures and to describe the statistical methods used to account for the missing data.

Methods

A systematic search of English language papers published from January 2000 to December 2009 was carried out in PubMed. Prospective cohort studies with a sample size greater than 1,000 that analysed data using repeated measures of exposure were included.

Results

Among the 82 papers meeting the inclusion criteria, only 35 (43%) reported the amount of missing data according to the suggested guidelines. Sixty-eight papers (83%) described how they dealt with missing data in the analysis. Most of the papers excluded participants with missing data and performed a complete-case analysis (n = 54, 66%). Other papers used more sophisticated methods including multiple imputation (n = 5) or fully Bayesian modeling (n = 1). Methods known to produce biased results were also used, for example, Last Observation Carried Forward (n = 7), the missing indicator method (n = 1), and mean value substitution (n = 3). For the remaining 14 papers, the method used to handle missing data in the analysis was not stated.

Conclusions

This review highlights the inconsistent reporting of missing data in cohort studies and the continuing use of inappropriate methods to handle missing data in the analysis. Epidemiological journals should invoke the STROBE guidelines as a framework for authors so that the amount of missing data and how this was accounted for in the analysis is transparent in the reporting of cohort studies.
Expression of protein-tyrosine phosphatases in Acute Myeloid Leukemia cells: FLT3 ITD sustains high levels of DUSP6 expression
Authors: Arora Deepika , Köthe Susanne , van den Eijnden Monique , van Huijsduijnen Rob Hooft , Heidel Florian , Fischer Thomas , Scholl Sebastian , Tölle Benjamin , Böhmer Sylvia-Annette , Lennartsson Johan , Isken Fabienne , Müller-Tidow Carsten , Böhmer Frank-D
Published: July 2012

Protein-tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) are important regulators of cellular signaling and changes in PTP activity can contribute to cell transformation. Little is known about the role of PTPs in Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). The aim of this study was therefore to establish a PTP expression profile in AML cells and to explore the possible role of FLT3 ITD (Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 with internal tandem duplication), an important oncoprotein in AML for PTP gene expression. PTP mRNA expression was analyzed in AML cells from patients and in cell lines using a RT-qPCR platform for detection of transcripts of 92 PTP genes. PTP mRNA expression was also analyzed based on a public microarray data set for AML patients. Highly expressed PTPs in AML belong to all PTP subfamilies. Very abundantly expressed PTP genes include PTPRC, PTPN2, PTPN6, PTPN22, DUSP1, DUSP6, DUSP10, PTP4A1, PTP4A2, PTEN, and ACP1. PTP expression was further correlated with the presence of FLT3 ITD, focusing on a set of highly expressed dual-specificity phosphatases (DUSPs). Elevated expression of DUSP6 in patients harboring FLT3 ITD was detected in this analysis. The mechanism and functional role of FLT3 ITD-mediated upregulation of DUSP6 was then explored using pharmacological inhibitors of FLT3 ITD signal transduction and si/shRNA technology in human and murine cell lines. High DUSP6 expression was causally associated with the presence of FLT3 ITD and dependent on FLT3 ITD kinase activity and ERK signaling. DUSP6 depletion moderately increased ERK1/2 activity but attenuated FLT3 ITD-dependent cell proliferation of 32D cells. In conclusion, DUSP6 may play a contributing role to FLT3 ITD-mediated cell transformation.
Rational design of HIV vaccines and microbicides: report of the EUROPRISE annual conference 2011
Authors: Ruffin Nicolas , Borggren Marie , Euler Zelda , Fiorino Fabio , Grupping Katrijn , Hallengärd David , Javed Aneele , Mendonca Kevin , Pollard Charlotte , Reinhart David , Saba Elisa , Sheik-Khalil Enas , Sköld Annette , Ziglio Serena , Scarlatti Gabriella , Gotch Frances , Wahren Britta , Shattock Robin J
Published: July 2012

Europrise is a Network of Excellence supported by the European Commission within the 6th Framework programme from 2007 to 2012. The Network has involved over 50 institutions from 13 European countries together with 3 industrial partners and 6 African countries. The Network encompasses an integrated program of research, training, dissemination and advocacy within the field of HIV vaccines and microbicides. A central and timely theme of the Network is the development of the unique concept of co-usage of vaccines and microbicides. Training of PhD students has been a major task, and some of these post-graduate students have here summarized novel ideas emanating from presentations at the last annual Europrise meeting in Prague. The latest data and ideas concerning HIV vaccine and microbicide studies are included in this review; these studies are so recent that the majority have yet to be published. Data were presented and discussed concerning novel immunisation strategies; microbicides and PrEP (alone and in combination with vaccines); mucosal transmission of HIV/SIV; mucosal vaccination; novel adjuvants; neutralizing antibodies; innate immune responses; HIV/SIV pathogenesis and disease progression; new methods and reagents. These – necessarily overlapping topics - are comprehensively summarised by the Europrise students in the context of other recent exciting data.
Luminescence of mesoporous silicon powders treated by high-pressure water vapor annealing
Authors: Gelloz Bernard , Loni Armando , Canham Leigh , Koshida Nobuyoshi
Published: July 2012

We have studied the photoluminescence of nanocrystalline silicon microparticle powders fabricated by fragmentation of PSi membranes. Several porosities were studied. Some powders have been subjected to further chemical etching in HF in order to reduce the size of the silicon skeleton and reach quantum sizes. High-pressure water vapor annealing was then used to enhance both the luminescence efficiency and stability. Two visible emission bands were observed. A red band characteristic of the emission of Si nanocrystals and a blue band related to localized centers in oxidized powders. The blue band included a long-lived component, with a lifetime exceeding 1 sec. Both emission bands depended strongly on the PSi initial porosity. The colors of the processed powders were tunable from brown to off-white, depending on the level of oxidation. The surface area and pore volume of some powders were also measured and discussed. The targeted applications are in cosmetics and medicine.
The ambiguity function associated with the linear canonical transform
Authors: Tian-Wen Che , Bing-Zhao Li , Tian-Zhou Xu
Published: July 2012

A new kind of ambiguity function (AF) associated with the linearcanonical transform (LCT) is proposed in this article, this new AF is defined based on the LCT and the classical AF. Firstly, the main properties and physical meanings of the newly defined AF are investigated, the results show that this kind of AF can be seen as one generalization of the classical AF. Then, the newly defined AF is applied to detect the parameters of the linear frequency modulated signals by combining with the classical Radon transform. The simulations are performed to verify the correctness of the derived results, and the comparison of the derived results with the common time-frequency analysis tools are also discussed.
Distribution of extrahepatic congenital portosystemic shunt morphology in predisposed dog breeds
Authors: Van den Bossche Lindsay , van Steenbeek Frank G , Favier Robert P , Kummeling Anne , Leegwater Peter AJ , Rothuizen Jan
Published: July 2012

Background

An inherited basis for congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (EHPSS) has been demonstrated in several small dog breeds. If in general both portocaval and porto-azygous shunts occur in breeds predisposed to portosystemic shunts then this could indicate a common genetic background. This study was performed to determine the distribution of extrahepatic portocaval and porto-azygous shunts in purebred dog populations.

Results

Data of 135 client owned dogs diagnosed with EHPSS at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Utrecht University from 2001 – 2010 were retrospectively analyzed. The correlation between shunt localization, sex, age, dog size and breed were studied. The study group consisted of 54 males and 81 females from 24 breeds. Twenty-five percent of dogs had porto-azygous shunts and 75% had portocaval shunts. Of the dogs with porto-azygous shunts only 27% was male (P = 0.006). No significant sex difference was detected in dogs with a portocaval shunt. Both phenotypes were present in almost all breeds represented with more than six cases. Small dogs are mostly diagnosed with portocaval shunts (79%) whereas both types are detected. The age at diagnosis in dogs with porto-azygous shunts was significantly higher than that of dogs with portocaval shunts (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The remarkable similarity of phenotypic variation in many dog breeds may indicate common underlying genes responsible for EHPSS across breeds. The subtype of EHPSS could be determined by a minor genetic component or modulating factors during embryonic development.
Outbreaks of highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome in Jiangxi province, China
Authors: Guo Aijiang , Wu Guohua , Gong Wei , Luo Xuenong , Zheng Haixue , Jia Huanjie , Cai Xuepeng
Published: July 2012

In 2007, herds of pigs in Jiangxi Province, China experienced outbreaks of a severe form of suspected porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) characterized by high fever, high morbidity and mortality in animals of different ages. 152 swine sera and 42 tissues (consisting of liver, lung, lymph node and kidney) from five herds of pigs were collected. Pigs were diagnosed as infected with a highly pathogenic form of the PRRS virus (PRRSV) based on ELISA and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) results. Serological surveys indicated that 67-100% of the examined pig herds in Jiangxi Province were seropositive. 42 tissue samples were used to detect classical swine fever virus, porcine circovirus type 2 and PRRSV. Results indicated that only PRRSV was detected in 42 samples. 12 PRRSV amplified products of five herds, which consisted of two or three samples randomly selected from each herd, were used for sequencing. Subsequent nucleotide sequencing showed that the NSP2 gene had 99–99.7% nucleotide and 99.2–100% derived amino acid sequence identities among 12 tissues with that of the PRRS-JXA1 strain, deletions of 29 amino acids corresponded to positions 534–562 of the NSP2 gene sequence. These results revealed that the diseased pigs were all caused by fatal PRRSV variant. Compared with the same period in 2006, the number of positive cases from Jiangxi Province remained unchanged. These findings demonstrated that the highly pathogenic Northern American type PRRSV was still spreading in Jiangxi Province, China in 2007.
Systematic reviews on behavioural and psychological symptoms in the older or demented population
Authors: van der Linde Rianne M , Stephan Blossom CM , Savva George M , Dening Tom , Brayne Carol
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPS) include depressive symptoms, anxiety, apathy, sleep problems, irritability, psychosis, wandering, elation and agitation, and are common in the non-demented and demented population.

Methods

We have undertaken a systematic review of reviews to give a broad overview of the prevalence, course, biological and psychosocial associations, care and outcomes of BPS in the older or demented population, and highlight limitations and gaps in existing research. Embase and Medline were searched for systematic reviews using search terms for BPS, dementia and ageing.

Results

Thirty-six reviews were identified. Most investigated the prevalence or course of symptoms, while few reviewed the effects of BPS on outcomes and care. BPS were found to occur in non-demented, cognitively impaired and demented people, but reported estimates vary widely. Biological factors associated with BPS in dementia include genetic factors, homocysteine levels and vascular changes. Psychosocial factors increase risk of BPS; however, across studies and between symptoms findings are inconsistent. BPS have been associated with burden of care, caregiver's general health and caregiver depression scores, but findings are limited regarding institutionalisation, quality of life and disease outcome.

Conclusions

Limitations of reviews include a lack of high quality reviews, particularly of BPS other than depression. Limitations of original studies include heterogeneity in study design particularly related to measurement of BPS, level of cognitive impairment, population characteristics and participant recruitment. It is our recommendation that more high quality reviews, including all BPS, and longitudinal studies with larger sample sizes that use frequently cited instruments to measure BPS are undertaken. A better understanding of the risk factors and course of BPS will inform prevention, treatment and management and possibly improve quality of life for the patients and their carers.
Bis-SNP: Combined DNA methylation and SNP calling for Bisulfite-seq data
Authors: Liu Yaping , Siegmund Kimberly D , Laird Peter W , Berman Benjamin P
Published: July 2012

Bisulfite treatment of DNA followed by high-throughput sequencing (Bisulfite-seq) is an important method for studying DNA methylation and epigenetic gene regulation, yet current software tools do not adequately address single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Identifying SNPs is important for accurate quantification of methylation levels and for identification of allele-specific epigenetic events such as imprinting. We have developed a model-based bisulfite SNP caller, Bis-SNP, that results in substantially better SNP calls than existing methods, thereby improving methylation estimates. At an average 30× genomic coverage, Bis-SNP correctly identified 96% of SNPs using the default high-stringency settings. The open-source package is available at http://epigenome.usc.edu/publicationdata/bissnp2011.
The subsurface temperature assessment by means of an indirect electromagnetic geothermometer
Authors: Spichak Viacheslav , Zakharova Olga
Published: July 2012

Advances have been made in the subsurface temperature estimation basing on the indirect electromagnetic geothermometer. The approach used was based on the artificial neural network technique, which, contrary to other available approaches, does not imply the prior knowledge of the electrical conductivity mechanisms and rock properties. Application of the indirect EM geothermometer to the interwell space interpolation in three areas (Tien Shan, Kyrgyzstan; Soultz-sous-Forêts, France; and Hengill, Iceland) characterized by different geologic environments indicated that the temperature estimation errors are controlled by four factors: faulting, distance between the EM site and the area where the temperature is estimated, meteoric and groundwater flows, and lateral geologic inhomogeneity (although the latter factor is less restrictive if appropriate EM inversion tools are used). It was demonstrated that the extrapolation errors depend on two factors: spacing between the EM site and the borehole, and ratio between the well length and the extrapolation depth. In particular, the relative accuracy of the temperature extrapolation to the depths twice as large as the borehole depth did not exceed an average of 5%. Using the indirect EM geothermometer, it was possible to reconstruct 2D and 3D temperature models of the studied areas from EM sounding data, which, in turn, enabled us to draw important conclusions regarding the dominating heat transfer mechanisms, fluid circulation paths, and better locations for drilling new boreholes. Application of the indirect EM geothermometer during exploitation of the geothermal reservoirs may enable one to monitor the variations of subsurface temperatures basing on the ground EM monitoring data and forecast future trends.
Functional implications of morphological specializations among the pectoral fin rays of the benthic longhorn sculpin
Authors: Taft Natalia K. , Taft Benjamin N.
Published: July 2012

Fin ray structure in ray-finned fishes (Actinopterygii) largely defines fin function. Fin rays convert the muscle activity at the base of the fin to shape changes throughout the external fin web. Despite their critical functional significance, very little is known about the relationship between form and function in this key vertebrate structure. In this study we demonstrate that morphological specializations of the pectoral fin rays of the benthic longhorn sculpin (Myoxocephalus octodecimspinosus) have specific functional consequences both within and among individual rays. The fin rays of longhorn sculpin have an elongate unjointed region with a cylindrical shape in cross-section proximally, and are jointed with a crescent-shaped cross-section distally. Variation in the relative length of the proximal versus distal regions affects the location of maximum curvature as well as the mean curvature along the length of individual rays. We experimentally manipulated fin rays to mimic the differential muscle activity that generates curvature of fin rays in living animals. We found that the shape of the fin rays in cross-section affects their curvature. Among fin rays, the most ventral fin rays with relatively longer proximal unjointed regions have a more distal location of maximum curvature. These ventral rays also have higher mean curvature, likely because of a combination of features including the cross-sectional shape, area and diameter of the distal segments as well as their relative size and number, which were not examined in detail here. Because these rays are used routinely for substrate contact, this higher curvature could contribute to increased flexibility for substrate contact behaviors such as clinging or gripping the substrate. These morphological and functional differences among fin rays are correlated with the functional regionalization of the fin. Specifically, the ventral fin rays that are used during substrate contact are more stiff proximally and more highly curved distally than the pectoral rays in the dorsal region, which are longer and used during slow swimming. This study highlights the importance of examining morphological and functional variation both within and among complex structures such as fin rays.
Reconfiguration and the reduction of vortex-induced vibrations in broad leaves
Authors: Miller Laura A. , Santhanakrishnan Arvind , Jones Shannon , Hamlet Christina , Mertens Keith , Zhu Luoding
Published: July 2012

Flexible plants, fungi and sessile animals reconfigure in wind and water to reduce the drag acting upon them. In strong winds and flood waters, for example, leaves roll up into cone shapes that reduce drag compared with rigid objects of similar surface area. Less understood is how a leaf attached to a flexible leaf stalk will roll up stably in an unsteady flow. Previous mathematical and physical models have only considered the case of a flexible sheet attached to a rigid tether in steady flow. In this paper, the dynamics of the flow around the leaf of the wild ginger Hexastylis arifolia and the wild violet Viola papilionacea are described using particle image velocimetry. The flows around the leaves are compared with those of simplified physical and numerical models of flexible sheets attached to both rigid and flexible beams. In the actual leaf, a stable recirculation zone is formed within the wake of the reconfigured cone. In the physical model, a similar recirculation zone is observed within sheets constructed to roll up into cones with both rigid and flexible tethers. Numerical simulations and experiments show that flexible rectangular sheets that reconfigure into U-shapes, however, are less stable when attached to flexible tethers. In these cases, larger forces and oscillations due to strong vortex shedding are measured. These results suggest that the three-dimensional cone structure in addition to flexibility is significant to both the reduction of vortex-induced vibrations and the forces experienced by the leaf.
The effects of three-dimensional gap orientation on bridging performance and behavior of brown tree snakes (Boiga irregularis)
Authors: Byrnes Greg , Jayne Bruce C.
Published: July 2012

Traversing gaps with different orientations within arboreal environments has ecological relevance and mechanical consequences for animals. For example, the orientation of the animal while crossing gaps determines whether the torques acting on the body tend to cause it to pitch or roll from the supporting perch or fail as a result of localized bending. The elongate bodies of snakes seem well suited for crossing gaps, but a long unsupported portion of the body can create large torques that make gap bridging demanding. We tested whether the three-dimensional orientation of substrates across a gap affected the performance and behavior of an arboreal snake (Boiga irregularis). The snakes crossed gaps 65% larger for vertical than for horizontal trajectories and 13% greater for straight trajectories than for those with a 90 deg turn within the horizontal plane. Our results suggest that failure due to the inability to keep the body rigid at the edge of the gap may be the primary constraint on performance for gaps with a large horizontal component. In addition, the decreased performance when the destination perch was oriented at an angle to the long axis of the initial perch was probably a result of the inability of snakes to maintain balance due to the large rolling torque. For some very large gaps the snakes enhanced their performance by using rapid lunges to cross otherwise impassable gaps. Perhaps such dynamic movements preceded the aerial behavior observed in other species of arboreal snakes.
Sensory receptor diversity establishes a peripheral population code for stimulus duration at low intensities
Authors: Lyons-Warren Ariel M. , Hollmann Michael , Carlson Bruce A.
Published: July 2012

Peripheral filtering is a fundamental mechanism for establishing frequency tuning in sensory systems. By contrast, detection of temporal features, such as duration, is generally thought to result from temporal coding in the periphery, followed by an analysis of peripheral response times within the central nervous system. We investigated how peripheral filtering properties affect the coding of stimulus duration in the electrosensory system of mormyrid fishes using behavioral and electrophysiological measures of duration tuning. We recorded from individual knollenorgans, the electrosensory receptors that mediate communication, and found correlated variation in frequency tuning and duration tuning, as predicted by a simple circuit model. In response to relatively high intensity stimuli, knollenorgans responded reliably with fixed latency spikes, consistent with a temporal code for stimulus duration. At near-threshold intensities, however, both the reliability and the temporal precision of responses decreased. Evoked potential recordings from the midbrain, as well as behavioral responses to electrosensory stimulation, revealed changes in sensitivity across the range of durations associated with the greatest variability in receptor sensitivity. Further, this range overlapped with the natural range of variation in species-specific communication signals, suggesting that peripheral duration tuning affects the coding of behaviorally relevant stimuli. We measured knollenorgan, midbrain and behavioral responses to natural communication signals and found that each of them were duration dependent. We conclude that at relatively low intensities for which temporal coding is ineffective, diversity among sensory receptors establishes a population code, in which duration is reflected in the population of responding knollenorgans.
Sensitivity and specificity of the olfactory epithelia of two elasmobranch species to bile salts
Authors: Meredith Tricia L. , Caprio John , Kajiura Stephen M.
Published: July 2012

Odor detection in vertebrates occurs when odorants enter the nose and bind to molecular olfactory receptors on the cilia or microvilli of olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs). Several vertebrate groups possess multiple, morphologically distinct types of ORNs. In teleost fishes, these different ORN types detect specific classes of biologically relevant odorants, such as amino acids, nucleotides and bile salts. For example, bile salts are reported to be detected exclusively by ciliated ORNs. The olfactory epithelium of elasmobranch fishes (sharks, rays and skates) is comprised of microvillous and crypt ORNs, but lacks ciliated ORNs; thus, it was questioned whether the olfactory system of this group of fishes is capable of detecting bile salts. The present investigation clearly indicates that the olfactory system of representative shark and stingray species does detect and respond to bile salts. Additionally, these species detect glycine-conjugated, taurine-conjugated and non-conjugated bile salts, as do teleosts. These elasmobranchs are less sensitive to the tested bile salts than reported for both agnathans and teleosts, but this may be due to the particular bile salts selected in this study, as elasmobranch-produced bile salts are commercially unavailable. Cross-adaptation experiments indicate further that the responses to bile salts are independent of those to amino acids, a major class of odorant molecules for all tested fishes.