bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Combination Algorithm in Partitioning Manufacture Technology
Authors: Wang Hui Feng , Zhang Yong Jun , Han Jing Tao , Chen Ling
Published: September 2011

Partitioning Manufacture Technology (PMT), which can get complex parts by simple processing has been developed to reduce tooling cost or increase machining efficiency. For the piece number is the primary reason influencing the machining efficiency, to reduce it, a combination algorithm is introduced based on the original feature-based partitioning algorithm. It consists of three steps: (1) Input a pieces set orderly. (2) Built a body attribute adjacency graph (BAAG) to describe the relationship of all pieces in the researching partitioning scheme; (3) Combine the vertices in BAAG, whose combination does not influence the visibility, to reduce the pieces number step by step until there is no redundancy partitioning (RP). At the end of paper, the partitioning schemes with and without combination algorithm are compared. From the comparison we can see introduction of combination algorithm can reduce the pieces number observably. It shows that the improved algorithm can fit to industry better then the former.
Research on Modeling for Administrative Law Enforcement Based on Workflow-Net
Authors: Qu Zhen Xin , Hui Zhang , Liu Li Ping
Published: September 2011

To create simulation experimental software correctly, how to model for process of administrative law enforcement was discussed. Taking current regulations in China as example, two laws was modeled using workflow-net. Net for administrative reconsideration law enforcement was simplified, and then proved to be soundless. Improving method was proposed for program realization. The research shows that workflow-net model is necessary and effective for analysis of enforcement, which helps to find problem and improve it.
Study of the Characteristic and Information Architecture Model of Enterprise Web Application
Authors: Shi Shuang Yuan , Zhang Ju Song , Qiu Zong Guo
Published: September 2011

In this paper, we systematically described the characteristics of traditional Web applications, as well as the advantages of Ajax technology, analyzed the differences between enterprise web application and public web application, and the differences between enterprise web applications and desktop applications; studied the characteristics of enterprise Web applications and Information Architecture Model; on the basis of the analysis of enterprise-class framework, proposed functional requirement of components and framework which support enterprise-class Web development, discusses computing balance between the client and server.
Mechanical Properties of Glass Fibre-Epoxy Based Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Srivastava S.K. , Singh I.P.
Published: September 2011

The experimental studies are conducted in this paper to optimize the three parameters for development of nanocomposite, namely (i) clay loadings, (ii) magnetic stirring time, and (iii) sonication time. Firstly polymer nanocomposites of varying contents nanoclay were prepared by using a mechanical stirrer and an ultrasound sonicator. The weight percentage of nanoclay in the nanocomposite with fixed stirring and sonication time was optimized for maximum intercalation within the polymer. After optimization of clay percentage, glass fiber based epoxy nanocomposite laminates were prepared. Nanocomposite structure was characterized by using X-Ray Diffraction and Transmission Electron Microscopy, which revealed the intercalated morphology of clay layers. Nanocomposites with 2.0% nanoclay content showed better intercalation with an increased interlayer spacing. The mechanical properties (impact and flexural property) were studied using an impact tester and three point bending tester. The flexural and impact properties of laminates with nanoclay contents were found to be better.
Beyond the Flatline
Authors: Jacob Sam
Published: September 2011

High Post‐Modernism with its understanding of the significance of the image anticipated the flattening of culture, first in advertising and the printed media, and more recently online. Sam Jacob of FAT speculates on architecture's relationship with the Internet, ‘a flatland of undifferentiated information’, and how Radical Post‐Modernism might be best placed to resist the ubiquity of global culture while reanimating the social and cultural agenda of Modernism and Post‐Modernism. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Too Good to Be True: The Survival of English Everyday PoMo
Authors: Rattenbury Kester
Published: September 2011

‘Intelligent, eclectic, witty, profoundly humanistic, and keen to debunk an inflexible, elitist and dangerously authoritarian Modernism’: Kester Rattenbury evokes the spirit of early British Post‐Modernism. She reminds us of how in the early 1980s it spearheaded a spirited community architecture that played a strategic role in protest against wholesale, motorway‐led redevelopments and the survival of Convent Garden. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organic Photorefractive Materials and Applications
Authors: Köber Sebastian , Salvador Michael , Meerholz Klaus
Published: September 2011

This review describes recent advances and applications in the field of organic photorefractive materials, an interesting area in the field of organic electronics and promising candidate for various aspects of photonic applications. We describe the current state of knowledge about the processes involved in the formation of photorefractive gratings in organic materials and focus on the chemical and photo‐physical aspects of the material structures employed in low glass‐transition temperature amorphous composites and organic photorefractive glasses. State‐of‐the art materials are highlighted and recent demonstrations of photonic applications relying on the reversible holographic nature of the photorefractive materials are discussed.
Reduced insular γ‐aminobutyric acid in fibromyalgia
Authors: Foerster Bradley R. , Petrou Myria , Edden Richard A. E. , Sundgren Pia C. , Schmidt‐Wilcke Tobias , Lowe Suzan E. , Harte Steven E. , Clauw Daniel J. , Harris Richard E.
Published: September 2011

Objective

Recent scientific findings have reinvigorated interest in examining the role of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), the major inhibitory central nervous system neurotransmitter, in chronic pain conditions. Decreased inhibitory neurotransmission is a proposed mechanism in the pathophysiology of chronic pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia (FM). The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that decreased levels of insular and anterior cingulate GABA would be present in FM patients, and that the concentration of this neurotransmitter would be correlated with pressure–pain thresholds.

Methods

Sixteen FM patients and 17 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls underwent pressure–pain testing and a 3T proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy session in which the right anterior insula, right posterior insula, anterior cingulate, and occipital cortex were examined in subjects at rest.

Results

GABA levels in the right anterior insula were significantly lower in FM patients compared with healthy controls (mean ± SD 1.17 ± 0.24 arbitrary institutional units versus 1.42 ± 0.32 arbitrary institutional units; P = 0.016). There was a trend toward increased GABA levels in the anterior cingulate of FM patients compared with healthy controls (P = 0.06). No significant differences between groups were detected in the posterior insula or occipital cortex (P > 0.05 for all comparisons). Within the right posterior insula, higher levels of GABA were positively correlated with pressure–pain thresholds in the FM patients (Spearman's rho = 0.63; P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Diminished inhibitory neurotransmission resulting from lower concentrations of GABA within the right anterior insula may play a role in the pathophysiology of FM and other central pain syndromes.
Modeling of activated sludge transient behavior induced by regulation of carbon and nitrogen metabolism
Authors: Lavallée B. , Lessard P. , Vanrolleghem P. A.
Published: September 2011

An experimental protocol to evaluate the structured biomass model proposed by Lavallée (Lavallée, Lessard, and Vanrolleghem, J Environ Eng Sci 2005;4:517–532) is presented. The protocol was devised to induce transient behavior and characterize the evolution of several internal biomass components. The proposed model is based on biochemical principles, and was fitted to the collected data. In these experiments, it was observed that filling the storage capacity of cells leads to special transient behavior, including a temporarily reduced metabolic activity. The model‐based interpretation of the results showed that the observed transient behavior can be explained by cross‐regulation of carbon and nitrogen metabolism. Hence, according to an extensive literature review, the cross‐regulation of carbon and nitrogen can be used to model some observed transient behaviors and regulation of the storage process in activated sludge. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011
Clinical evaluation of the signal‐to‐cutoff ratios of hepatitis C virus antibody screening tests used in China
Authors: Wu Shiji , Liu Yanling , Cheng Liming , Yin Botao , Peng Jing , Sun Ziyong
Published: September 2011

The clinical diagnosis of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is important to direct an accurate course of therapy. Previous studies have reported a correlation between the signal‐to‐cutoff (S/CO) ratios of the anti‐HCV screening test and confirm HCV infections for American anti‐HCV screening kits as well as for those in China. It is currently unknown whether clinical laboratories use the same threshold S/CO ratios under routine conditions and if these values are acceptable for the analysis of Chinese samples. A total of 336 anti‐HCV screening‐test‐positive serum samples were tested in duplicate using different lots of three most commonly used enzyme immunoassay (EIA) kits available in China. Samples were also tested using the Architect Anti‐HCV chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) kit and measured for HCV RNA. Recombinant immunoblot assays (RIBA) were additionally performed on samples with HCV RNA‐negative results with RIBA HCV 3.0. The relationship between S/CO ratios and confirmed HCV infection rates were analyzed. The threshold S/CO ratio for each screening kit correlated with the ≥95% positive predictive value was InTec 12.0, KHB 4.0, Wantai 5.0, and Abbott Architect 5.0. Therefore, the same threshold S/CO ratios for manufactured domestically EIA kits was difficult to attain. A multi‐center study with a large sample size is required to identify a uniform threshold S/CO ratio for use in different diagnostic laboratories. Alternatively, individual laboratories may be required to establish threshold S/CO ratios in their own laboratories to obtain consistent diagnostic results. J. Med. Virol. 83:1930–1937, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Possible association of lower rate of postherpetic neuralgia in patients on anti‐tumor necrosis factor‐α
Authors: Javed Saba , Kamili Qurat‐Ul‐Ain , Mendoza Natalia , Tyring Stephen K.
Published: September 2011

Recently, a study of patients with rheumatoid arthritis who developed herpes zoster while taking a tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α inhibitor reported a decreased incidence of postherpetic neuralgia. The objective of this study was to investigate whether patients on TNF‐α inhibitors who developed herpes zoster have a lower incidence of subsequent development of postherpetic neuralgia. A retrospective review of herpes zoster patients on TNF‐α inhibitors (infliximab, etanercept, or adalimumab) was conducted in 12 dermatology clinics. Medical records of such patients were reviewed thoroughly to confirm herpes zoster and TNF‐α inhibitors and any subsequent development of postherpetic neuralgia (pain score ≥3 out of 10 after 90 days of shingles onset) was noted. A total of 206 cases were reviewed, of which only 2 cases (<1%) developed postherpetic neuralgia, a considerably lower incidence rate than noted in the literature. Increasing age is a known risk factor in the development of postherpetic neuralgia. However, of the 58 (28.1%) cases ≥70 years of age, only 1 patient (1.7%) developed neuralgia compared to approximately 50% of patients who develop postherpetic neuralgia in this age group as reported in the literature. Treatment with TNF‐α inhibitors may be associated with a lower incidence of postherpetic neuralgia but further prospective large‐scale studies are needed to confirm this data. J. Med. Virol. 83:2051–2055, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Behavior of sandwich beams with functionally graded rubber core in three point bending
Authors: Doddamani M.R. , Kulkarni S.M. , Kishore
Published: September 2011

The three‐point bending behavior of sandwich beams made up of jute epoxy skins and piecewise linear functionally graded (FG) rubber core reinforced with fly ash filler is investigated. This work studies the influence of the parameters such as weight fraction of fly ash, core to thickness ratio, and orientation of jute on specific bending modulus and strength. The load displacement response of the sandwich is traced to evaluate the specific modulus and strength. FG core samples are prepared by using conventional casting technique and sandwich by hand layup. Presence of gradation is quantified experimentally. Results of bending test indicate that specific modulus and strength are primarily governed by filler content and core to sandwich thickness ratio. FG sandwiches with different gradation configurations (uniform, linear, and piecewise linear) are modeled using finite element analysis (ANSYS 5.4) to evaluate specific strength which is subsequently compared with the experimental results and the best gradation configuration is presented. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Use of pancreatic duct stents after pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Schulick Richard D.
Published: September 2011

After pancreaticoduodenectomy, the pancreatic anastomosis carries the highest risk of leak and cause of morbidity and mortality. In this review article, three randomized controlled clinical trials and a fourth prospective trial focused on pancreaticoduodenectomy that contribute to level‐one evidence are examined. The Johns Hopkins group demonstrated that internal pancreatic duct stenting did not decrease the frequency or severity of postoperative pancreatic fistulas. The Queen Mary Hospital group demonstrated that external drainage of the pancreatic duct with a stent reduced the leakage rate of pancreaticojejunostomy after pancreaticoduodenectomy. The University of Athens group demonstrated that internal stenting of the pancreaticojejunostomy anastomosis did not reduce the incidence of pancreatic fistula and related complications. Finally, the French Surgery Research Group demonstrated that the use of an external stent through the pancreatic anastomosis reduced the pancreatic fistula rate. In summary, two studies do not demonstrate an advantage to the use of internal pancreatic duct stents and two studies demonstrate a possible advantage to the use of external pancreatic duct stents, especially in highest risk patients with soft glands and small pancreatic ducts.
Shear instability in a stratified fluid when shear and stratification are not aligned
Authors: Candelier Julien , Le Dizès Stéphane , Millet Christophe
Published: September 2011

The effect of an inclination angle of the shear with respect to the stratification on the linear properties of the shear instability is examined in the work. For this purpose, we consider a two-dimensional plane Bickley jet of width$L$and maximum velocity${U}_{0} $in a stably stratified fluid of constant Brunt–Väisälä frequency$N$in an inviscid and Boussinesq framework. The plane of the jet is assumed to be inclined with an angle$\theta $with respect to the vertical direction of stratification. The stability analysis is performed using both numerical and theoretical methods for all the values of$\theta $and Froude number$F= {U}_{0} / (LN)$. We first obtain that the most unstable mode is always a two-dimensional Kelvin–Helmholtz (KH) sinuous mode. The condition of stability based on the Richardson number$Ri\gt 1/ 4$, which reads here$F\lt 3 \sqrt{3} / 2$, is recovered for$\theta = 0$. But when$\theta \not = 0$, that is, when the directions of shear and stratification are not perfectly aligned, the Bickley jet is found to be unstable for all Froude numbers. We show that two modes are involved in the stability properties. We demonstrate that when$F$is decreased below$3 \sqrt{3} / 2$, there is a ‘jump’ from one two-dimensional sinuous mode to another. For small Froude numbers, we show that the shear instability of the inclined jet is similar to that of a horizontal jet but with a ‘horizontal’ length scale${L}_{h} = L/ \sin \theta $. In this regime, the characteristics (oscillation frequency, growth rate, wavenumber) of the most unstable mode are found to be proportional to$\sin \theta $. For large Froude numbers, the shear instability of the inclined jet is similar to that of a vertical jet with the same scales but with a different Froude number,${F}_{v} = F/ \hspace *{-.1pc}\cos \theta $. It is argued that these results could be valid for any type of shear flow.
Mini-Nutritional Assessment predicts functional decline of elderly Taiwanese: result of a population-representative sample
Authors: Lee Li-Chin , Tsai Alan C.
Published: September 2011

Nutrition is a key element in geriatric health and is important for functional ability. The present study examined the functional status-predictive ability of the Mini-Nutritional Assessment (MNA). We analysed the dataset of the ‘Survey of Health and Living Status of the Elderly in Taiwan’, a population-based study conducted by the Bureau of Health Promotion of Taiwan. Study subjects ( ≥ 65 years old) who completed both the 1999 and 2003 surveys were rated with the long form and short form of the MNA at baseline and with the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and the Instrument Activities of Daily Living (IADL) scales 4 years later (end-point). The ability of the MNA to predict ADL or IADL dependency was evaluated with logistic regression models. The results showed that the elderly who were rated malnourished or at risk of malnutrition at baseline generally had significantly higher ADL or IADL scores 4 years later. Lower baseline MNA scores also predicted a greater risk of ADL or IADL dependency. These associations exist even among the elderly who were free of ADL or IADL dependency at baseline. The results clearly indicate that the MNA is able to predict ADL and IADL dependency (in addition to rating current nutritional status) of the elderly. The MNA, especially the short form, should be a valuable tool for identifying elderly at risk of functional decline and/or malnutrition in clinical practice or community programmes.
Detrital zircon populations in quartzites of the Krkonoše–Jizera Massif: implications for pre-collisional history of the Saxothuringian Domain in the Bohemian Massif
Authors: ŽÁČKOVÁ ELIŠKA , KONOPÁSEK JIŘÍ , KOŠLER JAN , JEŘÁBEK PETR
Published: September 2011

Age spectra of detrital zircons from metamorphosed quartzites of the Krkonoše–Jizera Massif in the northeastern part of the Saxothuringian Domain were obtained by U–Pb laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry dating. The zircon ages cluster in the intervals of 450–530 Ma and 550–670 Ma, and show individual data between 1.6 and 3.1 Ga. Zircons in the analysed samples are predominantly of Cambrian–Ordovician and Neoproterozoic age, and the marked peak atc. 525–500 Ma suggests a late Cambrian maximum age for the sedimentary protolith. Detritus of the quartzites probably originated from the erosion of Cambrian–Ordovician granitoids and their Neoproterozoic (meta)sedimentary or magmatic country rocks. The lack of Neoproterozoic (meta)sedimentary rocks in the central and eastern part of the Krkonoše–Jizera Massif suggests that the country rocks to voluminous Cambrian–Ordovician magmatic bodies were largely eroded during the formation of early Palaeozoic rift basins along the southeast passive margin of the Saxothuringian Domain. The detrital zircon age spectra confirm the previous interpretation that the exposed basement, dominated by Neoproterozoic to Cambrian–Ordovician granitoids, was overthrust during Devonian–Carboniferous subduction–collision processes by nappes composed of metamorphosed equivalents of the uppermost Cambrian–Devonian passive margin sedimentary formations. Only a negligible number of Mesoproterozoic ages, typically from the Grenvillian event, supports the interpretation that the Saxothuringian Neoproterozoic basement has an affinity to the West African Craton of the northwestern margin of Gondwana.
The origin and significance of pedogenic dolomite from the Upper Permian of the South Urals of Russia
Authors: KEARSEY TIMOTHY , TWITCHETT RICHARD J. , NEWELL ANDREW J.
Published: September 2011

Pedogenic carbonate nodules from six sections spanning the continental Permian–Triassic boundary in the South Urals, Russia, were analysed. Morphological, petrographic, SEM and XRD analyses have demonstrated that many of the latest Permian palaeosols are dolomitic. This dolomite forms the microcrystalline (5–16 μm) groundmass of the nodules. Later diagenetic phases, represented by coarser crystalline textures, were identified as calcite. Isotopic analysis of the microcrystalline dolomite has revealed it to be similar in isotopic composition to authigenic dolomite forming today in saline soils in Alberta, Canada. These data indicate that the dolomite found in these nodules is pedogenic, and formed in equilibrium with the atmosphere. Upper Permian pedogenic dolocretes in the studied sections are most frequent in (a) palaeosols that formed on palaeo-highs and (b) in the latest Permian period (Changhsingian), which may indicate that there was an increase in seasonality and evaporation in the South Urals region at this time. The presence of only calcitic palaeosols in the earliest Triassic may reflect a subsequent dramatic change in the basin conditions, possibly relating to the Permian–Triassic mass extinction, which stopped the conditions that are necessary for dolomite formation.
Malaria and Economic Productivity: A Longitudinal Analysis of the American Case
Authors: Hong Sok Chul
Published: September 2011

Using longitudinal data linked to the 1850 and 1860 U.S. federal census manuscript schedules, this article examines the effect of migration to high-risk malaria counties on real estate wealth accumulation. Although the migrants recognized the risk of malaria, they still migrated to malarial regions. Those who migrated to areas with higher risk of malaria experienced smaller increases in real estate wealth than migrants to less malarial areas. The findings in this study provide historical evidence with which to estimate the potential modern-day economic benefit of malarial eradication.
Temporomandibular joint herniation and the foramen of Huschke: an unusual external auditory canal mass
Authors: Prowse S J , Kelly G , Agada F
Published: September 2011

Objectives:

We describe a rare case of spontaneous temporomandibular joint herniation into the external auditory canal, and we also review the presentation, aetiology and management of such cases.

Case report:

An 87-year-old woman presented with a four-month history of left-sided otorrhoea and otalgia. Examination revealed a soft, polypoid mass in the left ear canal. When the patient opened her mouth the lesion disappeared. Subsequent computed tomographic imaging of the patient's temporal bones confirmed an 8.6 mm defect in the antero-inferior portion of the left ear canal, with herniation of retrodiscal soft tissues.

Conclusion:

The external auditory canal is intimately related to the temporomandibular joint, separated only by its bony anterior wall. Neoplasm, trauma or inflammation in this area can result in displacement of the temporomandibular joint into the ear canal; however, spontaneous herniation is rare. Persistence of the primitive foramen of Huschke can result in dehiscence of the anterior canal wall, allowing articular tissue to prolapse into the ear canal. Surgical closure of these defects is known to be effective in ameliorating symptomatic cases.
Characterization of deep-levels in silicon nanowires by low-frequency noise spectroscopy
Authors: Motayed Abhishek , Krylyuk Sergiy , Davydov Albert V.
Published: September 2011

We have used low-frequency noise (LFN) spectroscopy to characterize generation-recombination (G-R) centers in silicon nanowires grown using chemical vapor deposition. The LFN spectra showed Lorentzian behavior with well-defined corner-frequency indicative of single G-R center in the bandgap. From the temperature-dependent LFN measurement a single deep level at 0.39 eV from the bandedge is identified, which matches closely with the Au donor level in Si. The trap concentration was estimated at 2.0 × 1012 cm−3 with electron and hole capture cross-sections of 9.5 × 10−17 cm2 and 1.4 × 10−16 cm2, respectively. This study demonstrates the potential of the LFN spectroscopy in characterization of deep-levels in nanowires.
Electroforming and endurance behavior of Al/Pr0.7Ca0.3MnO3/Pt devices
Authors: Liao Zhaoliang , Gao Peng , Meng Yang , Zhao Hongwu , Bai Xuedong , Zhang Jiandi , Chen Dongmin
Published: September 2011

We have investigated the electroforming (EF) and resistive switching (RS) of Al/Pr0.7Ca0.3MnO3 (PCMO)/Pt devices by using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy combined with transport measurement. The device prefers EF with positive bias with respect to Pt electrode and their endurance is enhanced with the chemically reactive Al electrode. The presence of an Al2O3−δ layer in Al/PCMO junction indicates that the oxidization and reduction near the Al/PCMO interface play a key role in the RS.
Ascl1a/Dkk/β-catenin signaling pathway is necessary and glycogen synthase kinase-3β inhibition is sufficient for zebrafish retina regeneration
Authors: Ramachandran Rajesh , Zhao Xiao-Feng , Goldman Daniel
Published: September 2011

Key to successful retina regeneration in zebrafish are Müller glia (MG) that respond to retinal injury by dedifferentiating into a cycling population of retinal progenitors. Although recent studies have identified several genes involved in retina regeneration, the signaling mechanisms underlying injury-dependent MG proliferation have remained elusive. Here we report that canonical Wnt signaling controls the proliferation of MG-derived retinal progenitors. We found that injury-dependent induction of Ascl1a suppressed expression of the Wnt signaling inhibitor, Dkk, and induced expression of the Wnt ligand, Wnt4a. Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of Wnt signaling suppressed injury-dependent proliferation of MG-derived progenitors. Remarkably, in the uninjured retina, glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) inhibition was sufficient to stimulate MG dedifferentiation and the formation of multipotent retinal progenitors that were capable of differentiating into all major retinal cell types. Importantly, Ascl1a expression was found to contribute to the multipotential character of these progenitors. Our data suggest that Wnt signaling and GSK-3β inhibition, in particular, are crucial for successful retina regeneration.
PKA phosphorylation couples hepatic inositol-requiring enzyme 1α to glucagon signaling in glucose metabolism
Authors: Mao Ting , Shao Mengle , Qiu Yifu , Huang Jialiang , Zhang Yongliang , Song Bo , Wang Qiong , Jiang Lei , Liu Yi , Han Jing-Dong J. , Cao Pengrong , Li Jia , Gao Xiang , Rui Liangyou , Qi Ling , Li Wenjun , Liu Yong
Published: September 2011

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-resident protein kinase/endoribonuclease inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1) is activated through transautophosphorylation in response to protein folding overload in the ER lumen and maintains ER homeostasis by triggering a key branch of the unfolded protein response. Here we show that mammalian IRE1α in liver cells is also phosphorylated by a kinase other than itself in response to metabolic stimuli. Glucagon-stimulated protein kinase PKA, which in turn phosphorylated IRE1α at Ser
724
, a highly conserved site within the kinase activation domain. Blocking Ser
724
phosphorylation impaired the ability of IRE1α to augment the up-regulation by glucagon signaling of the expression of gluconeogenic genes. Moreover, hepatic IRE1α was highly phosphorylated at Ser
724
by PKA in mice with obesity, and silencing hepatic IRE1α markedly reduced hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance. Hence, these results suggest that IRE1α integrates signals from both the ER lumen and the cytoplasm in the liver and is coupled to the glucagon signaling in the regulation of glucose metabolism.
Spatially selective hormonal control of RAP2.6L and ANAC071 transcription factors involved in tissue reunion in
Arabidopsis
Authors: Asahina Masashi , Azuma Katsuya , Pitaksaringkarn Weerasak , Yamazaki Takashi , Mitsuda Nobutaka , Ohme-Takagi Masaru , Yamaguchi Shinjiro , Kamiya Yuji , Okada Kiyotaka , Nishimura Takeshi , Koshiba Tomokazu , Yokota Takao , Kamada Hiroshi , Satoh Shinobu
Published: September 2011

When grafting or wounding disconnects stem tissues, new tissues are generated to restore the lost connection. In this study, the molecular mechanism of such healing was elucidated in injured stems of
Arabidopsis
. Soon after the inflorescence stems were incised, the pith cells started to divide. This process was strongly inhibited by the elimination of cauline leaves, shoot apices, or lateral buds that reduced the indole-3-acetic acid supply. Microarray and quantitative RT-PCR analyses revealed that genes related to cell division, phytohormones, and transcription factors were expressed because of incision. Among them, two plant-specific transcription factor genes,
ANAC071
and
RAP2
.
6L
, were abundantly expressed.
ANAC071
was expressed at 1–3 d after cutting exclusively in the upper region of the cut gap, with concomitant accumulation of indole-3-acetic acid. In contrast,
RAP2.6L
was expressed at 1 d after cutting exclusively in the lower region, with concomitant deprivation of indole-3-acetic acid. The expression of
ANAC071
and
RAP2.6L
were also promoted by ethylene and jasmonic acid, respectively. In transformants suppressing the function of
RAP2.6L
or
ANAC071
, the division of pith cells was inhibited. Furthermore, the ethylene signaling-defective
ein2
mutant showed incomplete healing. Hence, plant-specific transcription factors differentially expressed around the cut position were essential for tissue reunion of
Arabidopsis
wounded flowering stems and were under opposite control by polar-transported auxin, with modification by the ethylene and jasmonic acid wound-inducible hormones.
Chiral skyrmions in thin magnetic films: new objects for magnetic storage technologies?
Authors: Kiselev N S , Bogdanov A N , Schäfer R , Rößler U K
Published: September 2011

Axisymmetric magnetic string-like objects of nanometre sizes (chiral vortices or skyrmions) have been predicted to exist in a large group of noncentrosymmetric crystals more than two decades ago. Recently, these magnetic textures have been directly observed in nanolayers of cubic helimagnets and monolayers of magnetic metals. We develop a micromagnetic theory of chiral skyrmions in thin magnetic layers for magnetic materials with intrinsic and induced chirality. Such particle-like and stable micromagnetic objects can exist in broad ranges of applied magnetic fields including zero field. Chiral skyrmions can be used as a new type of highly mobile nanoscale data carriers.
2α-Methyl-19-nor-(20S)-1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 protects the insulin 2 knockout non-obese diabetic mouse from developing type 1 diabetes without hypercalcaemia
Authors: Kiekhaefer C M , Weber B , Huggins M , Gorichanaz C , Nehring J A , DeLuca H F
Published: September 2011

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease that destroys the insulin-producing beta-islet cells of the pancreas. Currently, there are no treatment modalities for prevention of T1D, and the mechanisms influencing disease inception and early progression are not well understood. We have used the insulin 2−/− non-obese diabetic (Ins2−/− NOD) model to study stages of T1D and to examine the protective effects of a potent analogue of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, 2α-methyl-19-nor-(20S)-1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (2AMD). Pancreatic tissues from control and 2AMD-treated Ins2−/− NOD mice were obtained weekly from 5 to 16 weeks of age. Using immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis, samples were analysed for changes in beta cell survival, islet structure and T cell invasion. Weekly intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests (IPGTT) were performed to assess comparative beta cell function in control and treated animals. IHC demonstrated progressive beta cell destruction in control mice. In contrast, 2AMD treatment preserved islet cell architecture, arrested intra-islet T cell invasion and prevented the transition from insulitis to diabetes. IPGTT results revealed progressive impairment of beta cell function with increasing age in control mice, while 2AMD treatment resulted in normal beta function throughout the study. These results demonstrate that the Ins2−/− NOD model provides a rapid and effective method for studying T1D and for assessing efficacy of anti-diabetic agents.
The benefits of prophylaxis: views of adolescents with severe haemophilia
Authors: KHAIR K. , GIBSON F. , MEERABEAU L.
Published: September 2011

Summary.  It is well known and often reported that patients with long‐term health conditions have problems adhering to treatment regimens. This is often reportedly worst in adolescents who struggle with the physical and psychological impact of adolescence as well as with the limitations that treatment regimens impose on their day‐to‐day activities. This article presents results from a larger study that aimed to discover what living with haemophilia in the 21st century was like for boys with severe haemophilia. The overall study was a multi‐method, cross‐sectional interview based study of 30 boys with severe haemophilia, treated with prophylaxis at a single site in the UK. Although not specifically asked in the interview schedule, opinions about treatment (prophylaxis) were given by 66% of the boys. These boys recognized that prophylaxis offered them protection from bleeding, the older and more sporty boys understood the need for tailored prophylaxis around ‘risk’ activities such as sport or events away from home. For some boys this meant low dose daily prophylaxis, and this further enhanced treatment adherence, as it became firmly embedded in their daily ritual of health care. This study shows that adolescent boys are in fact adherent with treatment, possibly at a schedule decided upon by them rather than one directed by the haemophilia centre. They are able to comprehend complex treatment decisions and make treatment plans that offer them maximum protection with minimal interference in their day‐to‐day activities.
Inhibition of 5α‐Reductase Activity in Late Pregnancy Decreases Gestational Length and Fecundity and Impairs Object Memory and Central Progestogen Milieu of Juvenile Rat Offspring
Authors: Paris J. J. , Brunton P. J. , Russell J. A. , Walf A. A. , Frye C. A.
Published: September 2011

Psychological, physical and/or immune stressors during pregnancy are associated with negative birth outcomes, such as preterm birth and developmental abnormalities. In rodents, prenatal stressors can alter the expression of 5α‐reductase enzymes in the brain and may influence cognitive function and anxiety‐type behaviour in the offspring. Progesterone plays a critical role in maintaining gestation. In the present study, it was hypothesised that 5α‐reduced progesterone metabolites influence birth outcomes and/or the cognitive and neuroendocrine function of the offspring. 5α‐Reduced steroids were manipulated in pregnant Long‐Evans rats via the administration of vehicle, the 5α‐reduced, neuroactive metabolite of progesterone, 5α‐pregnan‐3α‐ol‐20‐one (3α,5α‐THP, allopregnanolone; 10 mg/kg/ml, s.c.), or the 5α‐reductase inhibitor, finasteride (50 mg/kg/ml, s.c.), daily from gestational days 17–21. Compared to vehicle or 3α,5α‐THP treatment, finasteride, significantly reduced the length of gestation and the number of pups per litter found in the dams’ nests after parturition. The behaviour of the offspring in hippocampus‐dependent tasks (i.e. object recognition, open field) was examined on post‐natal days 28–30. Compared to vehicle‐exposed controls, prenatal 3α,5α‐THP treatment significantly increased motor behaviour in females compared to males, decreased progesterone content in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and diencephalon, increased 3α,5α‐THP and 17β‐oestradiol content in the hippocampus, mPFC and diencephalon, and significantly increased serum corticosterone concentrations in males and females. Prenatal finasteride treatment significantly reduced object recognition, decreased hippocampal 3α,5α‐THP content, increased progesterone concentration in the mPFC and diencephalon, and increased serum corticosterone concentration in female (but not male) juvenile offspring, compared to vehicle‐exposed controls. Thus, inhibiting the formation of 5α‐reduced steroids during late gestation in rats reduces gestational length, the number of viable pups per litter, and impairs cognitive and neuroendocrine function in the juvenile offspring.
Vacuoles release sucrose via tonoplast‐localised SUC4‐type transporters
Authors: Schneider S. , Hulpke S. , Schulz A. , Yaron I. , Höll J. , Imlau A. , Schmitt B. , Batz S. , Wolf S. , Hedrich R. , Sauer N.
Published: September 2011

Arabidopsis thaliana has seven genes for functionally active sucrose transporters. Together with sucrose transporters from other dicot and monocot plants, these proteins form four separate phylogenetic groups. Group‐IV includes the Arabidopsis protein SUC4 (synonym SUT4) and related proteins from monocots and dicots. These Group‐IV sucrose transporters were reported to be either tonoplast‐ or plasma membrane‐localised, and in heterologous expression systems were shown to act as sucrose/H+ symporters. Here, we present comparative analyses of the subcellular localisation of the Arabidopsis SUC4 protein and of several other Group‐IV sucrose transporters, studies on tissue specificity of the Arabidopsis SUC4 promoter, phenotypic characterisations of Atsuc4.1 mutants and AtSUC4 overexpressing (AtSUC4‐OX) plants, and functional comparisons of Atsuc4.1 and AtSUC4‐OX vacuoles. Our data show that SUC4‐type sucrose transporters from different plant families (Brassicaceae, Cucurbitaceae and Solanaceae) localise exclusively to the tonoplast, demonstrating that vacuolar sucrose transport is a common theme of all SUC4‐type proteins. AtSUC4 expression is confined to the stele of Arabidopsis roots, developing anthers and meristematic tissues in all aerial parts. Analyses of the carbohydrate content of WT and mutant seedlings revealed reduced sucrose content in AtSUC4‐OX seedlings. This is in line with patch‐clamp analyses of AtSUC4‐OX vacuoles that characterise AtSUC4 as a sucrose/H+ symporter directly in the tonoplast membrane.
Effects of organic and conventional fertilizer treatments on host selection by the aphid parasitoid Diaeretiella rapae
Authors: Pope T. W. , Girling R. D. , Staley J. T. , Trigodet B. , Wright D. J. , Leather S. R. , van Emden H. F. , Poppy G. M.
Published: September 2011

The type and quantity of fertilizer supplied to a crop will differ between organic and conventional farming practices. Altering the type of fertilizer a plant is provided with can influence a plant’s foliar nitrogen levels, as well as the composition and concentration of defence compounds, such as glucosinolates. Many natural enemies of insect herbivores can respond to headspace volatiles emitted by the herbivores’ host plant in response to herbivory. We propose that manipulating fertilizer type may also influence the headspace volatile profiles of plants, and as a result, the tritrophic interactions that occur between plants, their insect pests and those pests’ natural enemies. Here, we investigate a tritrophic system consisting of cabbage plants, Brassica oleracea, a parasitoid, Diaeretiella rapae, and one of its hosts, the specialist cabbage aphid Brevicoryne brassicae. Brassica oleracea plants were provided with either no additional fertilization or one of three types of fertilizer: Nitram (ammonium nitrate), John Innes base or organic chicken manure. We investigated whether these changes would alter the rate of parasitism of aphids on those plants and whether any differences in parasitism could be explained by differences in attractivity of the plants to D. rapae or attack rate of aphids by D. rapae. In free‐choice experiments, there were significant differences in the percentage of B. brassicae parasitized by D. rapae between B. oleracea plants grown in different fertilizer treatments. In a series of dual‐choice Y‐tube olfactometry experiments, D. rapae females discriminated between B. brassicae‐infested and undamaged plants, but parasitoids did not discriminate between similarly infested plants grown in different fertilizer treatments. Correspondingly, in attack rate experiments, there were no differences in the rate that D. rapae attacked B. brassicae on B. oleracea plants grown in different fertilizer treatments. These findings are of direct relevance to sustainable and conventional farming practices.
Analysis of 32 common susceptibility genetic variants and their combined effect in predicting risk of Type 2 diabetes and related traits in Indians
Authors: Janipalli C. S. , Kumar M. V. K. , Vinay D. G. , Sandeep M. N. , Bhaskar S. , Kulkarni S. R. , Aruna M. , Joglekar C. V. , Priyadharshini S. , Maheshwari N. , Yajnik C. S. , Chandak G. R.
Published: September 2011

Diabet. Med. 29, 121–127 (2012)

Aims  Recent genome‐wide association studies have identified several Type 2 diabetes‐related loci. We investigated the effect of susceptibility genetic variants, individually, together and in combination with conventional risk factors, on Type 2 diabetes and diabetes‐related traits in Indians.

Methods  We genotyped 33 variants in 1808 Indian patients and 1549 control subjects and performed association analyses with Type 2 diabetes and related traits using an additive model for individual variant and for genetic risk score based on 32 polymorphisms. The discriminatory value of genetic risk over conventional risk factors was analysed using receiver‐operating characteristics curve analysis.

Results  The allelic odds ratio ranged from 1.01 (95% CI 0.85–1.19) to 1.66 (95% CI 1.32–2.01) for single‐variant analyses. Although, only 16 variants had significant odds ratios, the direction of association for others was similar to earlier reports. The odds ratio for Type 2 diabetes at each genetic risk score point was 1.11 (95% CI 1.09–1.14; P = 5.6 × 10−17) and individuals with extremes of genetic risk score (≥ 29.0 and ≤ 17.0) had a 7.5‐fold difference in risk of Type 2 diabetes. The discrimination rate between control subjects and patients improved marginally on addition of genetic risk score to conventional risk factors (area under curve = 0.959 and 0.963, respectively; P = 0.001). Of all the quantitative traits analysed, MC4R variants showed strong association with BMI (P = 4.1 × 10−4), fat mass per cent (P = 2.4 × 10−4) and other obesity‐related traits, including waist circumference and hip circumference (P = 2.0 × 10−3 for both), as well as insulin resistance (P = 0.02).

Conclusions  We replicated the association of well‐established common variants with Type 2 diabetes in Indians and observed a similar association as reported in Western populations. Combined analysis of 32 variants aids identification of subgroups at increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, but adds only a minor advantage over conventional risk factors.
FISCAL RETRENCHMENT IN ESTONIA DURING THE FINANCIAL CRISIS: THE ROLE OF INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS
Authors: RAUDLA RINGA
Published: September 2011

Unlike most other countries in Europe, which engaged in expansionary fiscal policies in 2009, the government of Estonia followed the opposite path by adopting several austerity packages, combining expenditure cuts and tax increases. This paper explores whether (and to what extent) the theoretical propositions from the literature on political economy of fiscal adjustment that focus on institutional factors are able to explain how it was possible to undertake such extensive fiscal adjustment in Estonia. The case study shows, first, that a coalition government and a minority government are able to achieve fiscal adjustments, especially if there is political commitment to lower the deficit. Second, the study indicates that an externally imposed fiscal rule can act as a major focal point in guiding deficit‐reduction efforts. Third, the Estonian case demonstrates that centralised budgetary institutions are conducive to fiscal adjustment and mitigate the problems arising from size fragmentation.
Twenty‐One‐Year Trends and Correlates of Pressure to Change Drinking
Authors: Polcin Douglas L. , Korcha Rachael , Greenfield Thomas K. , Bond Jason , Kerr William
Published: September 2011

Background:  The vast majority of individuals with alcohol problems in the United States and elsewhere do not seek help. One policy response has been to encourage institutions such as criminal justice and social welfare systems to mandate treatment for individuals with alcohol problems (Addiction, 1997;92:1133). However, informal pressures to drink less from family and friends are far more common than institutional pressures mandating treatment (Addiction, 1996;91:643). The prevalence and correlates of these informal pressures have been minimally studied.

Methods:  This analysis used data from 5 Alcohol Research Group National Alcohol Surveys (NAS) collected at approximately 5‐year intervals over a 21‐year period (1984 to 2005, pooled N = 16,241) to describe the patterns of pressure that drinkers received during the past year from spouse, family, friends, physicians, police, and the workplace.

Results:  The overall trend of pressure combining all 6 sources across all 5 NAS data sets indicated a decline. Frequent heavy drinking and alcohol‐related harms also declined, and both were strong predictors of receiving pressure. Trends among different sources varied. In multivariate regression models, pressure from friends showed an increase. Pressure from spouse and family showed a relatively flat trajectory, with the exception of a spike in pressure from family in 1990.

Conclusions:  The trajectory of decreasing of pressure over time is most likely the result of decreases in heavy drinking and alcohol‐related harm. Pressure was generally targeted toward higher risk drinkers, such as heavy drinkers and those reporting alcohol‐related harm. However, demographic findings suggest that the social context of drinking might also be a determinant of receiving pressure. Additional studies should identify when pressure is associated with decreased drinking and increased help seeking.