bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective Voltammetric Determination of Tartrazine in the Presence of Red 10B by Nanogold‐modified Carbon Paste Electrode
Authors: Ghoreishi Sayed Mehdi , Behpour Mohsen , Golestaneh Mahshid
Published: October 2012

A nanogold modified carbon paste electrode (NG‐CPE) was fabricated and used as selective voltammetric sensor for determination of Tartrazine in the presence of Red 10B using cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), and chronoamperometry (CHA). Electrochemical parameters including the diffusion coefficient (D), the electron transfer coefficient (aXXXXX), and the electron transfer number (n) were determined for the oxidation of Tartrazine. This modified electrode can be applied to simultaneous determination of Tartrazine and Red 10B, because of considerable decreases of anodic overpotentials for both compounds. After optimizing the experimental conditions, the anodic peak current of Tartrazine was linear to its concentration in the range of 0.05‐1.5 μmol l−1, and the detection limit was 0.017 μmol l−1 in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) at pH 4.0. The modified electrode has good stability and repeatability. It was applied to the determination of Tartrazine and Red 10B in soft drinks with satisfactory results.
Silk fibers and silk‐producing organs ofHarpactea rubicunda(C. L. Koch 1838) (Araneae, Dysderidae)
Authors: Hajer Jaromír , Malý Jan , Řeháková Dana
Published: October 2012

Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy were used to study the silk spinning apparatus and silks ofHarpactea rubicundaspiders. Three types of silk secretions that are produced by three kinds of silk spinning glands (ampullate, piriform, and pseudaciniform) and released through three types of spigots, were confirmed for both adult and juvenile spiders. Silk secretions for the construction of spider webs for shelter or retreat are produced by the pseudaciniform silk glands. Silk secretions that are released from spigots in the course of web construction are not processed by the legs during the subsequent process of hardening. Pairs of nanofibril bundles seemed to be part of the basic microarchitecture of the web silk fibers as revealed by AFM. These fiber bundles frequently not only overlap one another, but occasionally also interweave. This structural variability may strengthen the spider web. High‐resolution AFM scans of individual nanofibrils show a distinctly segmented nanostructure. Each globular segment is ∼30–40 nm long along the longitudinal axis of the fiber, and resembles a nanosegment of artificial fibroin described by Perez‐Rigueiro et al. (2007). Microsc. Res. Tech., 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Determination of chemotherapeutic agents in fish and shellfish by matrix solid‐phase dispersion and liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Carro Antonia M. , García‐Rodríguez Diego , Gonzalez‐Siso Paula , Lorenzo Rosa A.
Published: October 2012

Chemicals are widely used in aquaculture and one of the main recipients of these analytes is the aquatic environment. The aim of this work was to develop and validate a simple and sensitive method for the determination of multiclass chemotherapeutic agents in farmed fish and shellfish using matrix solid‐phase dispersion and liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Residues of azamethiphos, three avermectins, two carbamates, and two benzoylureas were extracted from samples using silica gel as clean‐up adsorbent and 0.5% acetic acid in acetonitrile as elution solvent. The extraction conditions were investigated and optimized using an experimental design. Mass spectrometry detection was carried out in positive electrospray ionization mode with multiple‐reaction monitoring scan (except for benzoylurea family). Matrix‐matched standards were used for the drugs quantification. Good linearity (R2 ≥ 0.996) was observed in the range of 5–500 μg kg−1. Limits of detection were in the range of 1.5–3.7 μg kg−1. Recoveries from salmon samples spiked with veterinary drugs were in the range 84.9–118%. Precision was satisfactory since relative standard deviations were lower than 10.6%. The method can be successfully applied for the analysis of fish and shellfish from aquaculture.
Winter home range and habitat use by porcupines in Alaska
Authors: Coltrane Jessica A. , Sinnott Rick
Published: October 2012

Habitat selection results from trade‐offs between availability and use of resources under constraints of predation, competition, or other threats, which can vary spatially and temporally. For northern herbivores, winter food availability and quality can limit population size and may drive habitat preference. North American porcupines (Erethizon dorsatum) are widespread generalist herbivores that range from Mexico to the northern reaches of Alaska. During the long Alaskan winter, porcupines deal with high energetic demands resulting from low ambient temperatures while subsisting on low quality forage. We tracked free‐ranging porcupines over 3 winters in southcentral Alaska to determine habitat selection and home range size in relation to diet. Porcupines maintained larger than expected home ranges, and selected for conifer‐hardwood forests at the home range level. Individual variation among porcupines was too large to determine a pattern of microhabitat selection among trees. Regardless, direct observations revealed that porcupines used only white spruce and paper birch trees for foraging. White spruce may provide some nutritional and thermoregulatory advantage over paper birch; however, porcupines did feed on paper birch cambium, suggesting some nutritional requirement is met by eating paper birch. Porcupines most likely feed on paper birch cambium when detoxification pathways used to process plant toxins in white spruce needles are saturated. Maintaining mixed conifer‐hardwood forests in southcentral Alaska would provide suitable winter habitat for porcupines and may alleviate damage to single species stands of conifers or hardwoods that are preferred by commercial forestry operations. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Polymer‐Grafted Silicon Nanoparticles Obtained Either via Peptide Bonding or Click Chemistry
Authors: Maurice Vincent , Slostowski Cedric , Herlin‐Boime Nathalie , Carrot Geraldine
Published: October 2012

Pegylated silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) are of great interest for applications in bio‐imaging as fluorescent tracers. Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) covalently attached to SiNPs may improve the (bio)compatibility, solubility in water and stability of SiNPs, without inhibiting their optical properties. SiNPs are first coated with silica followed by a silanization of the surface. Then, two versatile “grafting to” methods are used to provide pegylated SiNPs. Both peptide type coupling and copper(I)‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) are conducted and compared to graft PEG of different chain lengths. Infra‐red spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and transmission electron microscopy prove that theses methodologies are simple and efficient for the preparation of functional inorganic nanoparticles with luminescent properties.
Thalamic noradrenaline in Parkinson's disease: Deficits suggest role in motor and non‐motor symptoms
Authors: Pifl Christian , Kish Stephen J. , Hornykiewicz Oleh
Published: October 2012

The thalamus occupies a pivotal position within the corticobasal ganglia‐cortical circuits. In Parkinson's disease (PD), the thalamus exhibits pathological neuronal discharge patterns, foremost increased bursting and oscillatory activity, which are thought to perturb the faithful transfer of basal ganglia impulse flow to the cortex. Analogous abnormal thalamic discharge patterns develop in animals with experimentally reduced thalamic noradrenaline; conversely, added to thalamic neuronal preparations, noradrenaline exhibits marked antioscillatory and antibursting activity. Our study is based on this experimentally established link between noradrenaline and the quality of thalamic neuronal discharges. We analyzed 14 thalamic nuclei from all functionally relevant territories of 9 patients with PD and 8 controls, and measured noradrenaline with high‐performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. In PD, noradrenaline was profoundly reduced in all nuclei of the motor (pallidonigral and cerebellar) thalamus (ventroanterior: −86%, P = .0011; ventrolateral oral: −87%, P = .0010; ventrolateral caudal: −89%, P = .0014): Also, marked noradrenaline losses, ranging from 68% to 91% of controls, were found in other thalamic territories, including associative, limbic and intralaminar regions; the primary sensory regions were only mildly affected. The marked noradrenergic deafferentiation of the thalamus discloses a strategically located noradrenergic component in the overall pathophysiology of PD, suggesting a role in the complex mechanisms involved with the genesis of the motor and non‐motor symptoms. Our study thus significantly contributes to the knowledge of the extrastriatal nondopaminergic mechanisms of PD with direct relevance to treatment of this disorder. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Bilateral subthalamic nucleus stimulation for generalized dystonia after bilateral pallidotomy
Authors: Fonoff Erich Talamoni , Campos Wuilker Knoner , Mandel Maurício , Alho Eduardo Joaquim Lopes , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen
Published: October 2012

Background:

Thalamotomies and pallidotomies were commonly performed before the deep brain stimulation (DBS) era. Although ablative procedures can lead to significant dystonia improvement, longer periods of analysis reveal disease progression and functional deterioration. Today, the same patients seek additional treatment possibilities.

Methods:

Four patients with generalized dystonia who previously had undergone bilateral pallidotomy came to our service seeking additional treatment because of dystonic symptom progression. Bilateral subthalamic nucleus DBS (B‐STN‐DBS) was the treatment of choice. The patients were evaluated with the Burke–Fahn–Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale (BFMDRS) and the Unified Dystonia Rating Scale (UDRS) before and 2 years after surgery.

Results:

All patients showed significant functional improvement, averaging 65.3% in BFMDRS (P = .014) and 69.2% in UDRS (P = .025).

Conclusions:

These results suggest that B‐STN‐DBS may be an interesting treatment option for generalized dystonia, even for patients who have already undergone bilateral pallidotomy. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Surgical treatment for secondary dystonia
Authors: Tierney Travis S. , Lozano Andres M.
Published: October 2012

Surgical therapy for the secondary dystonias is generally perceived to be less effective than for primary disease. However, a number of case reports and small open series have recently appeared describing quite favorable outcomes following surgery for some nonprimary dystonias. We discuss surgical treatment options for this group of diverse conditions, including tardive dystonia, dystonic cerebral palsy, and certain heredodegenerative diseases in which deep brain stimulation and ablative lesions of the posteroventral pallidum have been shown to be effective. Other types of secondary dystonia respond less well to pallidal surgery, particularly when anatomical lesions of the basal ganglia are prominent on preoperative imaging. For these conditions, central baclofen delivery and botulinum toxin denervation may be considered. With optimal medical and surgical care, some patients with secondary dystonia have achieved reductions in disability and pain that approach those documented for primary dystonia. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Purification and characterization of an antitumor protein with deoxyribonuclease activity from edible mushroom Agrocybe aegerita
Authors: Chen Yijie , Jiang Shuai , Jin Yanxia , Yin Yalin , Yu Guojun , Lan Xianqing , Cui Mingyao , Liang Yi , Wong Barry Hon Cheung , Guo Lin , Sun Hui
Published: October 2012

Scope

Mushrooms are well known for their nutritional and medicinal value. Agrocybe aegerita has been used as a nutritious food around the world and for its herbal medicinal properties in Asia. In recent years, several antitumor proteins have been identified from A. aegerita. The objective of this study was to purify a novel antitumor protein from A. aegerita.

Methods and results

A novel antitumor protein A. aegerita deoxyribonuclease (AAD) was purified through a two‐step chromatographic procedure and was shown to possess antitumor activity against different cancer cell lines. Cells treated with AAD produced typical apoptotic morphological changes, which include chromatin condensation, the accumulation of sub‐G1 cells and caspase‐8 cleavage. Biochemical characterization of AAD showed that it was a member of the DNase I family and that it possessed divalent metal ion‐dependent endonuclease activity. The optimal temperature for AAD activity was 50°C and its optimal pH was 8.5. The MS‐identified peptides of AAD were found to match to Unigene3821, which has 97% homology with Aa‐Pri1, in our A. aegerita transcriptome.

Conclusion

We have identified a novel antitumor protein from A. aegerita. This fuller understanding of A. aegerita would help us to enhance its use in nutritional and medical applications.
Spatial structure of heptapeptide Aβ16–22 (beta‐amyloid Aβ1–40 active fragment) in solution and in complex with a biological membrane model
Authors: Usachev Konstantin S. , Efimov Sergej V. , Yulmetov Ajdar R. , Filippov Andrey V. , Antzutkin Oleg N. , Afonin Sergii , Klochkov Vladimir V.
Published: October 2012

The spatial structure of an active fragment of beta‐amyloid Aβ1–40 heptapeptide Aβ16–22 (Lys‐Leu‐Val‐Phe‐Phe‐Ala‐Glu) in aqueous buffer solution and in complex with sodium dodecyl sulfate micelles as a model membrane system was investigated by 1H NMR spectroscopy and two‐dimensional NMR (TOCSY, HSQC‐HECADE (Heteronuclear Couplings from ASSCI‐domain experiments with E.COSY‐type crosspeaks), NOESY) spectroscopy. Complex formation was confirmed by the chemical shift changes of the heptapeptide's 1H NMR spectra, as well as by the signs and values of the NOE effects in different environments. We compared the spatial structure of the heptapeptide in borate buffer solution and in complex with a model of the cell surface membrane. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bottom‐up zu molekularen Nanostrukturen
Authors: Gille Marie , Grill Leonhard , Hecht Stefan
Published: October 2012

Konventionelle Verfahren der Top‐down‐Nanofabrikation stoßen an ihre Grenzen — die Zeit ist reif für Alternativen. Durch Polymerisationen auf Oberflächen gelangt man bottom‐up zu ein‐ und zweidimensionalen molekularen Nanostrukturen.
Wenn Kunst‐Stoff verrottet
Authors: Osterath Brigitte
Published: October 2012

Der Zahn der Zeit nagt an Kunststoffen stärker als an Metall, Holz oder Glas. Viele Museen bekommen das schmerzlich zu spüren: Ihre Ausstellungsobjekte lösen sich an Licht und Luft einfach auf.
Developmental and androgenic regulation of chromatin regulators EZH2 and ANCCA/ATAD2 in the prostate Via MLL histone methylase complex
Authors: Duan Zhijian , Zou June X. , Yang Ping , Wang Yuzhuo , Borowsky Alexander D. , Gao Allen C. , Chen Hong‐Wu
Published: October 2012

BACKGROUND

Chromatin regulators ANCCA and EZH2 are overexpressed in prostate cancer and play crucial roles in androgen‐stimulated and castration‐refractory prostate tumor growth and survival. However, how their expression is regulated in the tumors and whether they play a role in prostate development remains unclear.

METHODS

Prostate tissue from different developmental stages of mouse and human were examined by IHC, qRT‐PCR and Western for expression of ANCCA, EZH2, and Ki‐67. Animals were castrated and T‐implanted for the expression response in normal prostate and tumors. siRNA knockdown and ChIP were performed for the mechanism of ANCCA regulation of EZH2.

RESULTS

In contrast to their very low level expression in adult prostate, ANCCA and EZH2 are strongly expressed in the epithelium and mesenchyme of mouse and human UGS. Their expression becomes more restricted to epithelial cells during later development and displays a second peak during puberty, which correlates with the proliferative status of the epithelium. Importantly, their expression in normal prostate and tumors is strongly suppressed by castration and markedly induced by testosterone replacement. While androgen suppresses EZH2 in CRPC cells, in LNCaP cells, physiological concentrations of androgen stimulate expression of PRC2 genes (EZH2, SUZ12, and EED), which is mediated by androgen‐induced ANCCA and involves E2F and histone H3K4me3 methylase MLL1 complex.

CONCLUSION

EZH2 and ANCCA are androgen regulated and strongly expressed in early prostate morphogenesis and during puberty, suggesting their important role in prostate development. Regulation of EZH2 by ANCCA emphasizes bromodomain protein ANCCA as a potential therapeutic target against prostate cancer. Prostate 73: 455–466, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Differential expression of VEGF ligands and receptors in prostate cancer
Authors: Woollard David J. , Opeskin Kenneth , Coso Sanja , Wu Di , Baldwin Megan E. , Williams Elizabeth D.
Published: October 2012

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer disseminates to regional lymph nodes, however the molecular mechanisms responsible for lymph node metastasis are poorly understood. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) ligand and receptor family have been implicated in the growth and spread of prostate cancer via activation of the blood vasculature and lymphatic systems. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively examine the expression pattern of VEGF ligands and receptors in the glandular epithelium, stroma, lymphatic vasculature and blood vessels in prostate cancer.

METHODS

The localization of VEGF‐A, VEGF‐C, VEGF‐D, VEGF receptor (VEGFR)‐1, VEGFR‐2, and VEGFR‐3 was examined in cancerous and adjacent benign prostate tissue from 52 subjects representing various grades of prostate cancer.

RESULTS

Except for VEGFR‐2, extensive staining was observed for all ligands and receptors in the prostate specimens. In epithelial cells, VEGF‐A and VEGFR‐1 expression was higher in tumor tissue compared to benign tissue. VEGF‐D and VEGFR‐3 expression was significantly higher in benign tissue compared to tumor in the stroma and the endothelium of lymphatic and blood vessels. In addition, the frequency of lymphatic vessels, but not blood vessels, was lower in tumor tissue compared with benign tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that activation of VEGFR‐1 by VEGF‐A within the carcinoma, and activation of lymphatic endothelial cell VEGFR‐3 by VEGF‐D within the adjacent benign stroma may be important signaling mechanisms involved in the progression and subsequent metastatic spread of prostate cancer. Thus inhibition of these pathways may contribute to therapeutic strategies for the management of prostate cancer. Prostate 73: 563–572, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessment of In vivo behavior of polymer tube nerve grafts simultaneously with the peripheral nerve regeneration process using scanning electron microscopy technique
Authors: Szarek Dariusz , Marycz Krzysztof , Laska Jadwiga , Bednarz Paulina , Jarmundowicz Włodzimierz
Published: October 2012

In this study, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been applied for instantaneous assessment of processes occurring at the site of regenerating nerve. The technique proved to be especially useful when an artificial implant should have been observed but have not yet been extensively investigated before for assessment of nerve tissue. For in vivo studies, evaluation of implant's morphology and its neuroregenerative properties is of great importance when new prototype is developed. However, the usually applied histological techniques require separate and differently prepared samples, and therefore, the results are never a 100% comparable. In our research, we found SEM as a technique providing detailed data both on an implant behavior and the nerve regeneration process inside the implant. Observations were carried out during 12‐week period on rat sciatic nerve injury model reconstructed with nerve autografts and different tube nerve grafts. Samples were analyzed with haematoxylin‐eosin (HE), immunocytochemical staining for neurofillament and S‐100 protein, SEM, TEM, and the results were compared. SEM studies enabled to obtain characteristic pictures of the regeneration process similarly to TEM and histological studies. Schwann cell transformation and communication as well as axonal outgrowth were identified, newly created and matured axons could be recognized. Concurrent analysis of biomaterial changes in the implant (degradation, collapsing of the tube wall, migration of alginate gel) was possible. This study provides the groundwork for further use of the described technique in the nerve regeneration studies. SCANNING 35: 232‐245, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Application of electrochemical noise analysis to corroding aluminium alloys
Authors: Curioni M. , Cottis R. A. , Thompson G. E.
Published: October 2012

On practical aluminium alloys, due to the complex interactions between microstructural features and local pH variations, corrosion initiation is generally observed close to intermetallics, and corrosion propagation requires the presence of a cluster of intermetallics immediately beneath the surface. Electrochemical investigations directed to the characterization of the corrosion process should be performed with minimal perturbation, in order to obtain information that can be translated into real‐life performance. Uniquely, electrochemical noise measurements enable information to be gathered by exploiting the natural fluctuations in the electrochemical potential and current flowing between two or more galvanically coupled corroding electrodes. In this work, the corrosion behaviour of AA2024T3 aluminium alloy and high‐purity aluminium macroscopic electrodes immersed in 3.5% NaCl at different pH was examined. The findings show that time‐resolved electrochemical noise analysis is a powerful tool for understanding the details of the corrosion process on aluminium alloys. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison between splines and fractional polynomials for multivariable model building with continuous covariates: a simulation study with continuous response
Authors: Binder Harald , Sauerbrei Willi , Royston Patrick
Published: October 2012

In observational studies, many continuous or categorical covariates may be related to an outcome. Various spline‐based procedures or the multivariable fractional polynomial (MFP) procedure can be used to identify important variables and functional forms for continuous covariates. This is the main aim of an explanatory model, as opposed to a model only for prediction. The type of analysis often guides the complexity of the final model. Spline‐based procedures and MFP have tuning parameters for choosing the required complexity. To compare model selection approaches, we perform a simulation study in the linear regression context based on a data structure intended to reflect realistic biomedical data. We vary the sample size, variance explained and complexity parameters for model selection. We consider 15 variables. A sample size of 200 (1000) and R2 = 0.2 (0.8) is the scenario with the smallest (largest) amount of information. For assessing performance, we consider prediction error, correct and incorrect inclusion of covariates, qualitative measures for judging selected functional forms and further novel criteria. From limited information, a suitable explanatory model cannot be obtained. Prediction performance from all types of models is similar. With a medium amount of information, MFP performs better than splines on several criteria. MFP better recovers simpler functions, whereas splines better recover more complex functions. For a large amount of information and no local structure, MFP and the spline procedures often select similar explanatory models. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Transparent Nanowire‐Based Cell Impalement Device Suitable for Detailed Cell–Nanowire Interaction Studies
Authors: Mumm Florian , Beckwith Kai M. , Bonde Sara , Martinez Karen L. , Sikorski Pawel
Published: October 2012

A method to fabricate inexpensive and transparent nanowire impalement devices is invented based on CuO nanowire arrays grown by thermal oxidation. By employing a novel process the nanowires are transferred to a transparent, cell‐compatible epoxy membrane. Cargo delivery and detailed cell‐nanowire interaction studies are performed, revealing that the cell plasma membrane tightly wraps the nanowires, while cell membrane penetration is not observed. The presented device offers an efficient investigation platform for further optimization, leading towards a simple and versatile impalement delivery system.
Fabrication of Graphene Sheets Intercalated with Manganese Oxide/Carbon Nanofibers: Toward High‐Capacity Energy Storage
Authors: Kwon Oh Seok , Kim Taejoon , Lee Jun Seop , Park Seon Joo , Park Hyun‐Woo , Kang Minjeong , Lee Ji Eun , Jang Jyongsik , Yoon Hyeonseok
Published: October 2012

Herein, 3D nanohybrid architectures consisting of MnOx nanocrystals, carbon nanofibers (CNFs), and graphene sheets are fabricated. MnOx‐decorated CNFs (MCNFs) with diameters of about 50 nm are readily obtained via single‐nozzle co‐electrospinning, followed by heat treatment. The MCNFs are then intercalated between graphene sheets, yielding the ternary nanohybrid MCNF/reduced graphene oxide (RGO). This straightforward synthesis process readily affords product on a scale of tens of grams. The ultrathin CNFs, which might be a promising alternative to carbon nanotubes (CNTs), overcome the low electrical conductivity of the excellent pseudocapacitive component, MnOx. Furthermore, the graphene sheets separated by the MCNFs boost the electrochemical performance of the nanohybrid electrodes. These nanohybrid electrodes exhibit enhanced specific capacitances compared with a sheet electrode fabricated of MCNF‐only or RGO‐only. Evidently, the RGO sheet acts as a conductive channel inside the nanohybrid, while the intercalated MCNFs increase the efficiency of the ion and charge transfer in the nanohybrid. The proposed nanohybrid architectures are expected to lay the foundation for the design and fabrication of high‐performance electrodes.
Pain
Authors: Melzack Ronald , Katz Joel
Published: October 2012

Pain has many valuable functions. It often signals injury or disease, generates a wide range of adaptive behaviors, and promotes healing through rest. Despite these beneficial aspects of pain, there are negative features that challenge our understanding of the puzzle of pain, including persistent phantom limb pain after amputation or total spinal cord transection. Pain is a personal, subjective experience influenced by cultural learning, the meaning of the situation, attention, and other psychological variables. Pain processes do not begin with the stimulation of receptors. Rather, injury or disease produces neural signals that enter an active nervous system that (in the adult organism) is the substrate of past experience, culture, and a host of other environmental and personal factors. These brain processes actively participate in the selection, abstraction, and synthesis of information from the total sensory input. Pain is not simply the end product of a linear sensory transmission system; it is a dynamic process that involves continuous interactions among complex ascending and descending systems. The neuromatrix theory guides us away from the Cartesian concept of pain as a sensation produced by injury, inflammation, or other tissue pathology and toward the concept of pain as a multidimensional experience produced by multiple influences. These influences range from the existing synaptic architecture of the neuromatrix—which is determined by genetic and sensory factors—to influences from within the body and from other areas in the brain. Genetic influences on synaptic architecture may determine—or predispose toward—the development of chronic pain syndromes. WIREs Cogn Sci 2013, 4:1–15. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1201

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Brain Function and Dysfunction
Notes on the Husbandry and Long‐Term Transportation of Bull Ray (Pteromylaeus bovinus) and Dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus and Coryphaena equiselis)
Authors: Rodrigues Nuno , Correia João , Pinho Rúben , Graça José , Rodrigues Filipe , Hirofumi Morikawa
Published: October 2012

Bull rays (Pteromylaeus bovinus) and Dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus and Coryphaena equiselis) were collected in Olhão (south of Portugal). These animals hosted multiple parasites, namely Caligus spp., and underwent a variety of treatments to remove them. Of all treatments tested, hydrogen peroxide showed the best results, although only concentrations above 100 ppm were effective in parasite removal. These high concentrations, however, proved to be highly toxic for the fish and led to the loss of some animals, especially those which had been handled before treatment. A total of 14 Bull rays were transported to Bolougne‐Sur‐Mer (France) by road and some animals were lost, which was attributed to excessive time in transit (>45 hr). In another transport, three Bull rays and 10 Dolphinfishes were moved to Stralsund (Germany) by road and air. The mechanical wounds suffered by one of the Bull rays during transport led to its death and, consequently, a deterioration of water quality in the tank containing two other conspecifics. This deterioration of water quality resulted in problems for the other two Bull rays, and one perished approximately 48 hr after arrival. The authors concluded that Dolphinfish can be transported with a low bioload for at least 27 hr, and Bull rays should not undergo transports longer than 35 hr. Special attention must be taken to injured animals, since this can lead to a decrease in water quality and consequently affect other animals in the same transport tank. Zoo Biol. 32:222–229, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Unitarity and the holographic S-Matrix
Authors: Fitzpatrick A. Liam , Kaplan Jared
Published: October 2012

Abstract

The bulk S-Matrix can be given a non-perturbative definition in terms of the flat space limit of AdS/CFT. We show that the unitarity of the S-Matrix, ie the optical theorem, can be derived by studying the behavior of the OPE and the conformal block decomposition in the flat space limit. When applied to perturbation theory in AdS, this gives a holographic derivation of the cutting rules for Feynman diagrams. To demonstrate these facts we introduce some new techniques for the analysis of conformal field theories. Chief among these is a method for conglomerating local primary operators
$ {{\mathcal{O}}_1} $
and
$ {{\mathcal{O}}_2} $
to extract the contribution of an individual primary
$ {{\mathcal{O}}_{{\varDelta, \ell }}} $
in their OPE. This provides a method for isolating the contribution of specific conformal blocks which we use to prove an important relation between certain conformal block coefficients and anomalous dimensions. These techniques make essential use of the simplifications that occur when CFT correlators are expressed in terms of a Mellin amplitude.
Evaluating Environmental Change Strategies: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Pettibone Kristianna G. , Friend Karen B. , Nargiso Jessica E. , Florin Paul
Published: October 2012

In this introductory article we define environmental change strategies (ECS), summarize the primary challenges associated with evaluating ECS, and provide an overview of the methods researchers have employed to begin to address these challenges. This special issue provides a range of examples, from researchers and practitioners in the field, of different approaches for addressing these challenges. These articles present new methods to understand and test how ECS are implemented and propose methods to evaluate their implementation. The content of the articles covers multiple public health issues, including substance abuse prevention, tobacco control, HIV prevention, and obesity prevention. This special issue is intended to build the evidence base for effective ECS, generate compelling discussion, critical analyses, and spur future research that will help improve the implementation and evaluation of ECS.
A New Documentation System for Congenital Absent Digits
Authors: Jones Neil F. , Kaplan Jesse
Published: October 2012

Background

Congenital absent digits continue to be described by many confusing terms and are currently classified in categories I, V, and VI of the International Federation of Societies for Surgery of the Hand classification and seven subclassification systems. Very few classification systems provide any logical basis for surgical reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to develop a simple alphanumerical documentation system to reproducibly describe the morphological or radiographic appearance of congenital absent digits and facilitate communication of these childrens' hand anomalies from one hand surgeon to another.

Methods

Dorsal and palmar photographs and PA radiographs of 235 hands in 204 children born with congenital absent digits over a 15-year period were analyzed to determine which digital rays were missing and their level of absence. Each hand can be described by three letters, R (radial), C (central), and U (ulnar), as well as numbers 1–5. The first letter and number designate which rays are missing and the second and third letters and numbers designate which rays remain present.

Results

There are 15 morphological phenotypes of congenital absent digits. The three most common phenotypes are U4R1 (a thumb but absence of all four fingers), R1U4 (absent thumb), and R5 (aplastic hand).

Conclusions

This new documentation system allows hand surgeons to describe the simple morphological or radiographic appearance of congenital absent digits; incorporates all the previous subclassification systems that have attempted to describe congenital absent digits in radial, central, and ulnar deficiencies, symbrachydactyly, and congenital constriction ring syndrome; and has subsequently allowed the development of an algorithm which predicts whether conventional or microsurgical reconstruction is indicated for each specific phenotype.
Analyse du statut oxydatif spermatique chez des patients infertiles
Authors: Ben Ali H. , Atig F. , Mehri S. , Saad A. , Ajina M.
Published: October 2012

Introduction

L’infertilité masculine constitue un problème de santé publique. Plusieurs facteurs sont à l’origine de ce phénomène. Actuellement, le stress oxydatif est incriminé comme l’une des principales causes. Dans notre étude, nous avons cherché une corrélation entre les marqueurs du stress oxydatif et les caractéristiques spermatiques (numération, mobilité, morphologie).

Matériel et méthodes

Nous avons évalué le statut oxydatif spermatique de 129 sujets infertiles. Ces sujets sont caractérisés par une infertilité de durée variable. Ils ont été subdivisés en quatre groupes: des sujets normozoospermiques considérés comme témoins (n=34); des asthénozoospermiques (Asthéno, n=43); des oligozoospermiques (Oligo, n=22) et tératozoospermiques (Térato, n=30). Parmi les marqueurs du stress oxydatif, nous avons évalué, dans le plasma séminal, le zinc, le calcium, le magnésium et le sélénium par spectrométrie d’absorption atomique à flamme et à four. Le malondialdéhyde (MDA) est dosé par spectrofluorométrie.

Résultats

Les résultats de notre étude montrent que les concentrations séminales du zinc et du sélénium sont plus élevées chez les normozoospermiques que les concentrations de ces mêmes éléments chez les autres groupes. La concentration séminale en zinc est significativement corrélée avec la numération spermatique (r=0,49; p<0,001) et le MDA (r=−0,35; p<0,05). La mobilité des spermatozoïdes est corrélée avec le calcium (r=0,41; p<0,001) et le magnésium (r=0,31; p<0,05). La concentration du MDA est plus élevée chez les trois groupes de patients: oligospermiques (3,22±1,37 μg/ml), asthénospermiques (3,52±1,93 μg/ml) et tératospermiques (3,64±1,73 μg/ml) par rapport aux témoins (2,32±0,94 μg/ml). Une seule corrélation positive a été observée entre le MDA et la morphologie (r=0,19; p<0,05).

Conclusion

Notre étude confirme que le stress oxydatif joue un rôle important dans le processus des altérations des spermatozoïdes. Les radicaux libres peuvent, en effet, modifier la structure membranaire ainsi que celle de l’acide désoxyribonucléique. Ces altérations conduisent aussi à une augmentation du pourcentage de spermatozoïdes de formes anormales.
Iron–sulfur cluster coordination in the [FeFe]‐hydrogenase H cluster biosynthetic factor HydF
Authors: Joshi Neelambari , Shepard Eric M. , Byer Amanda S. , Swanson Kevin D. , Broderick Joan B. , Peters John W.
Published: October 2012

HydF
and
HydF
bind by molecular sieving(View interaction: 1, 2)
Treatment of post-traumatic pain, and autonomic and muscular dysfunction by ganglion impar block and medial branch block of the facet joints: A case report
Authors: Hambræus Johan , Westergren Hans
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Patients exposed to whiplash trauma are at risk of developing pain and dysfunction of the neck and shoulder. Although rarely discussed in the literature, some patients also develop autonomic dysfunction.

Case presentation

A previously healthy 41-year-old woman was involved in a “head-on” car crash. During the following 3 years she developed severe and complex post-traumatic pain syndrome, which consisted of neck pain, lumbar pain, sensory-motor dysfunction, and myoclonic muscular contractions. Despite pharmacotherapy, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation, her condition worsened, resulting in severe disability. Fourteen years after the car crash, an interventional pain therapy program was started, which consisted of sympathetic ganglion impar block and medial branch blocks of facet joints at different levels. These treatment strategies ultimately normalized her sensory-motor dysfunction, reduced her autonomic dysfunction, and stopped the myoclonic muscular contractions.

Conclusion

This case highlights a possible interaction between the pain-generating facet joints, the somatosensory nervous system, and the autonomic/sympathetic nervous systems. The case also highlights the importance of identifying autonomic dysfunction in patients with persisting pain syndromes.

Implications

This complex case shows that many clinical phenomena cannot be explained using our present knowledge of pain mechanisms. We hope that readers who have observed similar cases can learn from our case, and are encouraged to publish their observations.
RELIABILISM: HOLISTIC OR SIMPLE?
Authors: Dunn Jeffrey
Published: October 2012

Simple versions of Reliabilism about justification say thatS's believing thatpis justified if and only if the belief was produced by a belief-forming process that is reliable above some high threshold. Alvin Goldman, inEpistemology and Cognition, argues for a more complex version of the view according to which it is total epistemic systems that are assessed for reliability, rather than individual processes. Why prefer this more complex version of Reliabilism? Two reasons suggest themselves. First, it seems that the interaction of various processes of belief formation is often important. The more complex version appears to account for the interaction of processes. Second, one might doubt whether individual processes will have determinate truth-ratios. If not, the simple version of Reliabilism is a nonstarter. In this paper I argue that, despite these two apparent advantages, the complex version of Reliabilism is untenable. I conclude by arguing that the simple version is actually fine as it is.
HOW TO BE A REDUNDANT REALIST
Authors: Sylvan Kurt L.
Published: October 2012

In Group Agency, List and Pettit (L&P) defend ‘non-redundant realism’ about group agency, a view on which (A) facts about group agents are not ‘readily reducible’ to facts about individuals, and (B) the dependence of group agents on individuals is so holistic that one cannot predict facts about group agents on the basis of facts about their members. This paper undermines L&P's case in three stages. §1 shows that L&P's core argument is invalid. L&P infer (A) and (B) from two facts: (1) that group agents must often believe what few members personally believe, and (2) that a group agent's beliefs in certain propositions must often ‘depend on’ member attitudes to distinct propositions. I note that (2) is ambiguous, and that the only true reading of it is irrelevant to the status of (A). I argue further that (1) cannot support (A), since a group agent's belief in P may neatly constitutively depend on member attitudes to P that are weaker than personal belief. §2 makes this idea concrete with a plausible toy theory of group belief that implies it. While this kind of theory is popular in the literature on joint belief, L&P never discuss it – a striking fact, since it explains why (1) is true. Having made these points, I turn to argue in §3 that (B) is either false or uncontroversial.
Inconsistent genetic structure among members of a multitrophic system: did bruchid parasitoids (Horismenusspp.) escape the effects of bean domestication?
Authors: Laurin-Lemay S. , Angers B. , Benrey B. , Brodeur J.
Published: October 2012

Anthropogenic range expansion and cultural practices have modified the distribution, abundance and genetic diversity of domesticated organisms, thereby altering multitrophic assemblages through space and time. The putative Mesoamerican domestication centre of the common bean,Phaseolus vulgarisL., in Mexico allows investigating the effects of plant domestication on the genetic structure of members of a multitrophic system. The aim of this study was to compare the evolutionary history ofHorismenusparasitoids (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) to those of their bruchid beetle hosts (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) and their domesticated host plant (P. vulgaris), in the context of traditional agriculture in Mexico. We analyzed the population genetic structure of fourHorismenusspecies in Mexico using mitochondrialCOIhaplotype data. The two most abundant parasitoid species wereHorismenus depressusandHorismenus missouriensis. Horismenus missouriensiswere infected byWolbachiaendosymbionts and had little to no population differentiation (FST = 0.06). We suspect the mitochondrial history ofH. missouriensisto be blurred byWolbachia, because differentiation among infected vs. non-infected individuals exists (FST = 0.11). Populations ofH. depressuswere found to be highly differentiated (FST = 0.34), but the genetic structuring could not be explained by tested spatial components. We then compared the genetic structure observed in this parasitoid species to previously published studies on bruchid beetles and their host plants. Despite extensive human-mediated migration and likely population homogenization of its twoAcanthoscelidesbruchid beetle hosts,H. depressuspopulations are structured like its host plant, by a recent dispersal from a diverse ancestral gene pool. Distinct evolutionary dynamics may explain inconsistent patterns among trophic levels. Parasitoids likely migrate from wild bean populations and are poorly adapted to bean storage conditions similar to their bruchid beetle hosts. Integrating several trophic levels to the study of evolutionary history has proven to be fruitful in detecting different ecological responses to human-mediated disturbances and host parasite interactions.
Spatial and temporal variability of sea ambient noise as an anthropogenic pressure index: the case of the Cres-Lošinj archipelago, Croatia
Authors: Rako Nikolina , Picciulin Marta , Vilibić Ivica , Fortuna Caterina M.
Published: October 2012

This study monitors the spatial and temporal variability of sea ambient noise (SAN) in the Cres-Lošinj archipelago from 2007 to 2009 (north-eastern Adriatic Sea, Croatia). The archipelago is an important marine habitat for many protected species, including the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) that is considered as vulnerable to disturbance from intense local vessel traffic. Systematic monthly sampling of SAN was carried out at ten predefined acoustic stations. Data on the presence, type and distance of vessels from these stations was also collected during sampling and vessels were allocated into four main classes. A sample of noise produced by a representative vessel of each vessel class was collected and the noise levels were extracted on the 1/3 octave band standard centre frequencies. All the recordings were analysed in terms of instantaneous sound pressure level (LLSP, L-weighted, 63 Hz–20 kHz, root mean square fast). The equivalent continuous sound pressure levels (LLeq) for vessel and SAN were calculated averaging the LLSP of vessel and SAN samples. Results indicate an increase of SAN levels particularly in the range of low frequencies (63 Hz–1 kHz) during the tourist season. A positive relationship was found between the spatial and temporal distribution of SAN and seasonal changes in anthropogenic pressure, in terms of vessel traffic. Potential implications for local marine life, with particular reference to bottlenose dolphins, are discussed.
A review and assessment of nature reserve policy in China: advances, challenges and opportunities
Authors: Xu Jiliang , Zhang Zhengwang , Liu Wenjing , McGowan Philip J. K.
Published: October 2012

There were 2,541 nature reserves accounting for c. 15% of China's land territory by 2009. As nature reserves hold the majority of the country's wildlife they play a fundamental role in protecting the country's biodiversity. National policies relevant to nature reserves have had a positive effect on biodiversity although these policies are now facing increasing challenges. We reviewed the development of relevant policy and legislation and identify and assess challenges, using a questionnaire survey and personal interviews. The main challenges identified and assessed included lack of harmonization between government departments, between nature reserves and other protected area designations, and between nature reserves and local communities. In addition, recent transfers of responsibilities between government entities, potential impacts of forest tenure reforms, and issues surrounding natural resource use and ecotourism were identified. These obstacles could undermine the achievements of biodiversity conservation in China if they are not addressed soon. Given these findings, we make recommendations to guide future policy formulation in relation to nature reserve management and development.
Arboreal camera trapping for the Critically Endangered greater bamboo lemurProlemur simus
Authors: Olson Erik R. , Marsh Ryan A. , Bovard Brittany N. , Randrianarimanana H. L. Lucien , Ravaloharimanitra Maholy , Ratsimbazafy Jonah H. , King Tony
Published: October 2012

Camera traps are standard tools for assessing populations of medium–large terrestrial mammals, particularly for rare, elusive or cryptic species, yet few researchers have attempted to employ camera traps to document rare primates in arboreal settings. We examined different arboreal camera-trap techniques to document the Critically Endangered greater bamboo lemurProlemur simusin Madagascar. We documentedP. simusat two sites, confirming presence at one site. Most species, including 86% of all lemur occurrences, were documented in low light conditions (c. < 105 lux). Our study suggests that camera traps can be effective in validating unconfirmed sightings of rare or secretive primate species. We recommend that future work with cameras in arboreal settings considers seasonal activity patterns, targets sites with high food densities, uses local knowledge, and utilizes available techniques (e.g. traditional trapping techniques) and landscape topography to concentrate animal movement (e.g. steep slopes or ridge lines).