bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of stratosphere‐troposphere coupling in the occurrence of extreme winter cold spells over northern Europe
Authors: Tomassini Lorenzo , Gerber Edwin P. , Baldwin Mark P. , Bunzel Felix , Giorgetta Marco
Published: September 2012

Extreme cold spells over Northern Europe during winter are examined in order to address the question to what degree and in which ways stratospheric dynamics may influence the state of the troposphere. The study is based on 500 years of a pre‐industrial control simulation with a comprehensive global climate model which well resolves the stratosphere, the MPI Earth System Model. Geopotential height anomalies leading to cold air outbreaks leave imprints throughout the atmosphere including the middle and lower stratosphere. A significant connection between tropospheric winter cold spells over Northern Europe and erosion of the stratospheric polar vortex is detected up to 30 hPa. In about 40 percent of the cases, the extreme cold spells are preceded by dynamical disturbances in the stratosphere. The strong warmings associated with the deceleration of the stratospheric jet cause the tropopause height to decrease over high latitudes. The compression of the tropospheric column below favors the development of high pressure anomalies and blocking signatures over polar regions. This in turn leads to the advection of cold air towards Northern Europe and the establishment of a negative annular mode pattern in the troposphere. Anomalies in the residual mean meridional circulation during the stratospheric weak vortex events contribute to the warming of the lower stratosphere, but are not key in the mechanism through which the stratosphere impacts the troposphere.
Sea surface temperature variability in the Pacific sector of the Southern Ocean over the past 700 kyr
Authors: Ho Sze Ling , Mollenhauer Gesine , Lamy Frank , Martínez‐Garcia Alfredo , Mohtadi Mahyar , Gersonde Rainer , Hebbeln Dierk , Nunez‐Ricardo Samuel , Rosell‐Melé Antoni , Tiedemann Ralf
Published: September 2012

In spite of the important role played by the Southern Ocean in global climate, the few existing paleoceanographic records in the east Pacific sector do not extend beyond one glacial‐interglacial cycle, hindering circumpolar comparison of past sea surface temperature (SST) evolution in the Southern Ocean. Here we present three alkenone‐based Pleistocene SST records from the subantarctic and subtropical Pacific. We use a regional core top calibration data set to constrain the choice of calibrations for paleo SST estimation. Our core top data confirm that the alkenone‐based UK37 and UK′37values correlate linearly with the SST, in a similar fashion as the most commonly used laboratory culture‐based calibrations even at low temperatures (down to ∼1°C), rendering these calibrations appropriate for application in the subantarctic Pacific. However, these alkenone indices yield diverging temporal trends in the Pleistocene SST records. On the basis of the better agreement withδ18O records and other SST records in the subantarctic Southern Ocean, we propose that the UK37 is a better index for SST reconstruction in this region than the more commonly used UK′37 index. The UK37‐derived SST records suggest glacial cooling of ∼8°C and ∼4°C in the subantarctic and subtropical Pacific, respectively. Such extent of subantarctic glacial cooling is comparable to that in other sectors of the Southern Ocean, indicating a uniform circumpolar cooling during the Pleistocene. Furthermore, our SST records also imply massive equatorward migrations of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) frontal systems and an enhanced transport of ACC water to lower latitudes during glacials by the Peru‐Chile Current.
Deformation behavior of metallic glass thin films
Authors: Liu Y. H. , Zhao F. , Li Y. L. , Chen M. W.
Published: September 2012

We report room-temperature deformation behavior of damage-free metallic glass films characterized by nanoindentation and atomic force microscopy. The glass films with thicknesses ranging from 5 μm down to ∼60 nm plastically deform by shear bands when subjected to both spherical and sharp Berkovich indenters. Importantly, we found that gallium contamination from focus ion beam (FIB) milling significantly suppresses shear band formation, indicating that the absence of shear bands in FIB milled samples may be caused by gallium irradiation damage, rather than sample size effect. Finite element simulation reveals that a high stress gradient at the film/substrate interface promotes the plastic deformation of the thin films but does not give rise to significant strain inhomogeneity.
Directed assembly of nano-scale phase variants in highly strained BiFeO3 thin films
Authors: Zhou Jian , Trassin Morgan , He Qing , Tamura Nobumichi , Kunz Martin , Cheng Chun , Zhang Jinxing , Liang Wen-I , Seidel Jan , Hsin Cheng-Lun , Wu Junqiao
Published: September 2012

The delicate balance between elastic energy and electrostatic energy in highly strained BiFeO3 (BFO) thin films results in complex mixed-phase patterns, which poses significant challenges for theoretical understanding and complicates the realization of its full potential in magnetoelectric, electromechanical, and photovoltaic devices. In this letter, we explore in-plane electric field induced phase transition in strain engineered BFO thin films and elucidate the mechanism behind the assembly behavior of complex nano-scale phase domains. Our approach enables deterministic control of phase variants with well-defined structures and orientation, paving the way for designing novel data storage devices based on mixed phase BFO.
Interpretation of the effects of electron cyclotron power absorption in pre-disruptive tokamak discharges in ASDEX Upgrade
Authors: Nowak S. , Lazzaro E. , Esposito B. , Granucci G. , Maraschek M. , Sauter O. , Zohm H. , Brunetti D. ,   ASDEX Upgrade Team
Published: September 2012

Tokamak disruptions are events of fatal collapse of the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) confinement configuration, which cause a rapid loss of the plasma thermal energy and the impulsive release of magnetic energy and heat on the tokamak first wall components. The physics of the disruptions is very complex and non-linear, strictly associated with the dynamics of magnetic tearing perturbations. The crucial problem of the response to the effects of localized heat deposition and current driven by external (rf) sources to avoid or quench the MHD tearing instabilities has been investigated both experimentally and theoretically on the ASDEX Upgrade tokamak. The analysis of the conditions under which a disruption can be prevented by injection of electron cyclotron (EC) rf power, or, alternatively, may be caused by it, shows that the local EC heating can be more significant than EC current drive in ensuring neoclassical tearing modes (NTMs) stability, due to two main reasons: first, the drop of temperature associated with the island thermal short circuit tends to reduce the neoclassical character of the instability and to limit the EC current drive generation; second, the different effects on the mode evolution of both the location of the power deposition relative to the island separatrix and the island shape deformation lead to less strict requirements of precise power deposition focussing. A contribution to the validation of theoretical models of the events associated with NTM is given and can be used to develop concepts for their control, relevant also for ITER-like scenarios.
Intraspecific variation in growth and yield response to elevated CO2 in wheat depends on the differences of leaf mass per unit area
Authors: Thilakarathne Chamindathee L. , Tausz-Posch Sabine , Cane Karen , Norton Robert M. , Tausz Michael , Seneweera Saman
Published: September 2012

In order to investigate the underlying physiological mechanism of intraspecific variation in plant growth and yield response to elevated CO2 concentration [CO2], seven cultivars of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) were grown at either ambient [CO2] (~384 μmol mol–1) or elevated [CO2] (700 μmol mol–1) in temperature controlled glasshouses. Grain yield increased under elevated [CO2] by an average of 38% across all seven cultivars, and this was correlated with increases in both spike number (productive tillers) (r = 0.868) and aboveground biomass (r = 0.942). Across all the cultivars, flag leaf photosynthesis rate (A) increased by an average of 57% at elevated [CO2]. The response of A to elevated [CO2] ranged from 31% (in cv. H45) to 75% (in cv. Silverstar). Only H45 showed A acclimation to elevated [CO2], which was characterised by lower maximum Rubisco carboxylation efficiency, maximum electron transport rate and leaf N concentration. Leaf level traits responsible for plant growth, such as leaf mass per unit area (LMA), carbon (C), N content on an area basis ([N]LA) and the C : N increased at elevated [CO2]. LMA stimulation ranged from 0% to 85% and was clearly associated with increased [N]LA. Both of these traits were positively correlated with grain yield, suggesting that differences in LMA play an important role in determining the grain yield response to elevated [CO2]. Thus increased LMA can be used as a new trait to select cultivars for a future [CO2]-rich atmosphere.
The cellular and molecular basis for malaria parasite invasion of the human red blood cell
Authors: Cowman Alan F. , Berry Drew , Baum Jake
Published: September 2012

Malaria is a major disease of humans caused by protozoan parasites from the genus Plasmodium. It has a complex life cycle; however, asexual parasite infection within the blood stream is responsible for all disease pathology. This stage is initiated when merozoites, the free invasive blood-stage form, invade circulating erythrocytes. Although invasion is rapid, it is the only time of the life cycle when the parasite is directly exposed to the host immune system. Significant effort has, therefore, focused on identifying the proteins involved and understanding the underlying mechanisms behind merozoite invasion into the protected niche inside the human erythrocyte.
The relationship between CSR and corporate strategy in medium‐sized companies: evidence from Italy
Authors: Lamberti Lucio , Noci Giuliano
Published: September 2012

The paper responds to the recent calls for further evidence on corporate social responsibility (CSR) in small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). Drawing on the extant literature, the authors identify four characteristics contended by academicians as peculiarities of SMEs’ approach to CSR: the intrinsic relationship between CSR and corporate strategy motivated by the need to continuously dialogue with stakeholders; the centrality of the entrepreneur's ethos in CSR decisions; the coexistence and the cross‐effect of economically instrumental and ethically motivated CSR policies; and the finalization of CSR initiatives to specific firm growth objectives. These four peculiarities are explored in the case of an Italian medium‐sized company operating in the furniture industry. The outcomes show how the four peculiarities are salient in analyzing the CSR approach by the company and suggest areas for further research aimed at developing a thorough theory of CSR in SMEs. In particular, we deepen the analysis of the nature of the uniqueness of medium‐sized companies’ approach to CSR, providing possible interpretations of the reasons making medium‐sized companies’ approach to CSR different from both small and large companies.
Combined targeting of MEK/MAPK and PI3K/Akt signalling in multiple myeloma
Authors: Steinbrunn Torsten , Stühmer Thorsten , Sayehli Cyrus , Chatterjee Manik , Einsele Hermann , Bargou Ralf C.
Published: September 2012

So‐called RAS‐dependent pathways, such as those signalling via mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphoinositide‐3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt, are implicated in proliferation and survival of multiple myeloma (MM) cells. However, the effects of their combined blockade and its potential therapeutic utility for the treatment of RAS‐mutated MM have not systematically been analysed. Here, we tested the functional consequences of single versus combined inhibition of the MEK/MAPK and PI3K/Akt pathways in a large series of primary MM samples (n = 55) and MM cell lines (n = 11). Additionally, the anti‐myeloma activity of different treatments was analysed with respect to the RAS mutation status. PI3K/Akt blockade was generally more pro‐apoptotic than blockade of MEK/MAPK both in cell lines and in primary MM samples. Simultaneous blockade of both pathways led to significantly enhanced anti‐myeloma activity in 75% of primary MM samples, whereas the remainder was largely resistant. Resistance to combination blockade was exclusively observed in RAS wildtype cases, whereas sensitivity was noted in RAS wildtype and in RAS mutated MM. These results suggest that oncogenic RAS is a predictor of sensitivity to combination treatment with PI3K/Akt and MEK/MAPK inhibitors and that such an approach might therefore be beneficial for this genetically well‐defined subgroup of MM patients.
Coda with aFinalTwist:theVivaceCodetta in theFirstMovement ofBrahms'sCello sonata inFmajor
Authors: Wu Nelson
Published: September 2012

In music theory, a coda is generally understood as an appendage or an epilogue to a musical structure. This is perhaps the reason that, as Joseph Kerman writes, ‘[m]usical analysts who deal with ... sonata‐form movements generally ... do less well ... in accounting for actual musical experience when dealing with codas than with other sections of the form.’

The first movement of Brahms's Cello Sonata in F major, Op. 99, is one of the most‐analysed works in the tonal repertoire. Yet its peculiar final twist, thevivacecodetta, has drawn little analytical comment. This re‐examination of the Allegro vivace aims to go beyond the ostensibly deeper element of melody and harmony by focussing on how prominent expository surface details (anacrusis, metre, articulation and texture) are manipulated in thevivacecodetta. This energetic ending manifests the persistent struggle between duple and triple rhythmic units, as well as the ambiguity between the perceived metre and the notated metre, by synthesising the two main thematic ideas in a sophisticated metrical framework. This approach sheds a new light on the significance of a seemingly negligible ‘coda to a coda’.
Transcriptional reprogramming by root knot and migratory nematode infection in rice
Authors: Kyndt Tina , Denil Simon , Haegeman Annelies , Trooskens Geert , Bauters Lander , Van Criekinge Wim , De Meyer Tim , Gheysen Godelieve
Published: September 2012

Rice is one of the most important staple crops worldwide, but its yield is compromised by different pathogens, including plant‐parasitic nematodes. In this study we have characterized specific and general responses of rice (Oryza sativa) roots challenged with two endoparasitic nematodes with very different modes of action.

Local transcriptional changes in rice roots upon root knot (Meloidogyne graminicola) and root rot nematode (RRN, Hirschmanniella oryzae) infection were studied at two time points (3 and 7 d after infection, dai), using mRNA‐seq.

Our results confirm that root knot nematodes (RKNs), which feed as sedentary endoparasites, stimulate metabolic pathways in the root, and enhance nutrient transport towards the induced root gall. The migratory RRNs, on the other hand, induce programmed cell death and oxidative stress, and obstruct the normal metabolic activity of the root. While RRN infection causes up‐regulation of biotic stress‐related genes early in the infection, the sedentary RKNs suppress the local defense pathways (e.g. salicylic acid and ethylene pathways). Interestingly, hormone pathways mainly involved in plant development were strongly induced (gibberellin) or repressed (cytokinin) at 3 dai.

These results uncover previously unrecognized nematode‐induced expression profiles related to their specific infection strategy.
Evaluating the peripheral optical effect of multifocal contact lenses
Authors: Rosén Robert , Jaeken Bart , Lindskoog Petterson Anna , Artal Pablo , Unsbo Peter , Lundström Linda
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Multifocal soft contact lenses have been used to decrease the progression of myopia, presumably by inducing relative peripheral myopia at the same time as the central image is focused on the fovea. The aim of this study was to investigate how the peripheral optical effect of commercially available multifocal soft contact lenses can be evaluated from objective wavefront measurements.

Methods

Two multifocal lenses with high and low add and one monofocal design were measured over the ±40° horizontal field, using a scanning Hartmann–Shack wavefront sensor on four subjects. The effect on the refractive shift, the peripheral image quality, and the depth of field of the lenses was evaluated using the area under the modulation transfer function as the image quality metric.

Results

The multifocal lenses with a centre distance design and 2 dioptres of add induced about 0.50 dioptre of relative peripheral myopia at 30° in the nasal visual field. For larger off‐axis angles the border of the optical zone of the lenses severely degraded image quality. Moreover, these multifocal lenses also significantly reduced the image quality and increased the depth of field for angles as small as 10°–15°.

Conclusions

The proposed methodology showed that the tested multifocal soft contact lenses gave a very small peripheral myopic shift in these four subjects and that they would need a larger optical zone and a more controlled depth of field to explain a possible treatment effect on myopia progression.
Scleral changes induced by atropine in chicks as an experimental model of myopia
Authors: Gallego Patricia , Martínez‐García Carmen , Pérez‐Merino Pablo , Ibares‐Frías Lucía , Mayo‐Iscar Agustín , Merayo‐Lloves Jesús
Published: September 2012

Purpose

To determine the effects of intravitreal atropine on scleral growth in the form‐deprived chick as an experimental model of myopia.

Methods

Five groups of five chicks were studied from day 0–12 post‐hatching. One group remained untreated (C), and four were form‐deprived by monocular light diffusers to induce myopia. Two groups (RLand A) wore diffusers for 9 days, and the other two groups (D and D + A) wore diffusers throughout the study. Group D received no further treatment (myopia positive control). Groups A and D + A received intravitreal injections of atropine for days 9–12. Measurements of refractive error and axial length were performed on days 0, 9, and 12. Sclera changes were assessed in cartilaginous and fibrous layers by histological analysis.

Results

All form‐deprived eyes had a myopic refractive error on day 9. All atropine‐treated groups were hyperopic on day 12. The effect of atropine was most evident in Group D + A in which diffusers were maintained throughout treatment and changes in refractive error were statistically significant. The observed changes in axial length were in line with the changes in refractive error. The scleral fibrous layer thickness increased, and the sceral cartilaginous layer underwent a slight thinning compared to Group D, the myopia positive control.

Conclusions

If the signals that induce growth remain during atropine treatment, morphological changes in sclera are produced: the scleral fibrous layer thickened, and the sceral cartilaginous layer thinned. These changes resulted in refractive error recovery, and the ocular growth was stopped. The data suggested the atropine was acting throughout the scleral fibrous layer.
Dietitians as leaders, past, present and future
Authors: CAPRA Sandra
Published: September 2012

Aim:  Dietetics as a form of study predates medicine, but the profession did not emerge until the nineteenth century and is still in an emergent stage today in many parts of the world. This paper seeks to demonstrate how the impact of leaders has been critical in terms of the growth and development of the profession.

Methods:  A narrative review was formed from searching the published literature.

Results:  The published literature is silent on many aspects of dietetics. In modern times, the majority of written works have come from North America and Western Europe. No work on historical or developmental aspects of dietetics from other parts of the world could be located. Leadership within the profession is well researched, but leadership by the profession in the broader arena of national and international policy and practice is harder to identify. There are calls for curricula to keep pace with the needs of modern healthcare systems if the profession is to flourish.

Conclusion:  Despite all the changes and the evolution of the profession, much remains unchanged. There are recurring themes throughout the literature reviewed here, those of the breadth of dietetics, the need for evolving curricula, the need for business acumen, the need for diversity and, in more recent times, the ability to work with interdisciplinary teams. But the profession has what it takes. It has within its ranks leaders of today and tomorrow. It is up to the profession to allow those leaders to emerge and take the profession to the next level.
Disruption of subcellular Arc/Arg 3.1 mRNA expression in striatal efferent neurons following partial monoamine loss induced by methamphetamine
Authors: Barker‐Haliski Melissa L. , Oldenburger Katharina , Keefe Kristen A.
Published: September 2012

The immediate‐early gene Arc (activity‐regulated cytoskeleton‐associated protein) is provocative in the context of neuroplasticity because of its experience‐dependent regulation and mRNA transport to and translation at activated synapses. Normal rats have more preproenkephalin‐negative (ppe‐neg; presumed striatonigral) neurons with cytoplasmic Arc mRNA than ppe‐positive (ppe‐pos; striatopallidal) neurons, despite equivalent numbers of these neurons showing novelty‐induced transcriptional activation of Arc. Furthermore, rats with partial monoamine loss induced by methamphetamine (METH) show impaired Arc mRNA expression in both ppe‐neg and ppe‐pos neurons relative to normal animals following response‐reversal learning. In this study, Arc expression induced by exposure to a novel environment was used to assess transcriptional activation and cytoplasmic localization of Arc mRNA in striatal efferent neuron subpopulations subsequent to METH‐induced neurotoxicity. Partial monoamine depletion significantly altered Arc expression. Specifically, basal Arc expression was elevated, but novelty‐induced transcriptional activation was abolished. Without novelty‐induced Arc transcription, METH‐pre‐treated rats also had fewer neurons with cytoplasmic Arc mRNA expression, with the effect being greater for ppe‐neg neurons. Thus, METH‐induced neurotoxicity substantially alters striatal efferent neuron function at the level of Arc transcription, suggesting a long‐term shift in basal ganglia neuroplasticity processes subsequent to METH‐induced neurotoxicity. Such changes potentially underlie striatally based learning deficits associated with METH‐induced neurotoxicity.
Do mesenchymal stem cells function across species barriers? Relevance for xenotransplantation
Authors: Li Jiang , Ezzelarab Mohamed B. , Cooper David K. C.
Published: September 2012

Li J, Ezzelarab MB, Cooper DKC. Do mesenchymal stem cells function across species barriers? Relevance for xenotransplantation. Xenotransplantation 2012; 19: 273–285. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Background:  Allogeneic mesenchymal stem (stromal) cells (MSC) are a promising therapy for various pathological conditions. Genetically modified pig MSC have been demonstrated to downregulate the human T‐cell response to pig antigens in vitro. Before genetically modified pig MSC can be used clinically, however, evidence needs to be provided to indicate whether they will survive in a human (xenogeneic) host.

Literature Search and Results:  A literature search through the end of 2011 identified 94 reports of the in vivo cross‐species administration of MSC in a variety of experimental models. The majority (n = 89) involved the use of human MSC in various other species, with an occasional study using pig, rat, or guinea‐pig MSC. When human MSC were used, they were largely derived from the bone marrow, adipose tissue, or umbilical cord blood. The routes of administration were varied, although almost half of the studies utilized the intravenous route. In 88 experiments (93.6%), there was evidence that the MSC engrafted and functioned across the species barrier, and in only six cases (6.4%) was there evidence of failure to function. Importantly, MSC function was confirmed in several different cross‐species models. For example, human MSC functioned in no fewer than seven different recipient species.

Conclusions:  The data provided by this literature search strengthen the hypothesis that pig MSC will function satisfactorily in a different species, for example, humans. The data also suggest that our own in vitro observations on the efficacy of pig MSC in downregulating the strength of the human T‐cell response to pig antigens will likely be reproduced in vivo in pre‐clinical large animal models and in clinical trials.
Retrograde dissection during percutaneous coronary intervention: sealing of the entry site by covered stent implantation
Authors: Danzi Gian Battista , Campanile Alfonso , Sozzi Fabiola B , Bonanomi Carla
Published: September 2012

We present a case of iatrogenic aortic haematoma, developed during percutaneous coronary intervention, treated with covered stent implantation followed by a conservative approach characterised by the integration of both clinical and multimodal imaging information. This complication can lead to overt aortic dissection (28–47%), rupture (20–45%) or death (21%). In 10% of the cases it can completely regress. Guidelines for its treatment are debated because of the unpredictable natural history of intramural haematoma. Nowadays, a close follow-up with multimodal imaging is considered a valid strategy for the appropriate management of this severe condition. On the basis of the patient's clinical condition and the information obtained by multiple imaging tests (angiography, transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography and multidetector CT scan) we decided to treat our patient with medical therapy. To date, a 1-year follow-up negative for cardiac events is recorded.
PS12 Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes Prevalence Rates in the Survey of Lifestyles, Attitude and Nutrition (Slan) in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Buckley CM , Kearney PM , McHugh S , Harrington J , Bradley CP , Perry IJ
Published: September 2012

Background

To date estimates of the prevalence of diabetes in Ireland have been based on models of UK data. Since 2009 the International Expert Committee has recommended that the diagnosis of diabetes and pre-diabetes can be made on the basis of HbA1c levels. The objectives of this study are to estimate the prevalence of diabetes and pre-diabetes in a nationally representative sample of adults living in private households in Ireland and to assess whether the discrepancy between self-report and objective diabetes status is influenced by socio-demographic characteristics.

Methods

Estimates were based on a nationally representative sample of participants in the Survey of Lifestyles, Attitude and Nutrition (SLAN) whom provided a blood sample at the physical examination. Diabetes was diagnosed based on an HbA1C level ≥6.5% or self-report of occurrence of diabetes or reporting of diabetes medications. Pre-diabetes was diagnosed based on HbA1c level ≥5.7% and <6.5% and no self-report of diabetes or diabetes medications. Prevalences are reported with their 95% confidence intervals. Comparisons between men and women were carried out using the design-adjusted chi2test. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The overall response rate among eligible adults (18+ years) was 62% for the main survey (n=10,364) and 66% for the physical examination substudy (aged 45+, n=1202). Among the 1202 participants who underwent a physical examination, 8 were excluded because they did not complete the questions on diabetes history and 65 were excluded from the analysis because they did not have HbA1c measurements. Among the remaining 1132 participants, 54 had diagnosed diabetes and 34 had undiagnosed diabetes based on HbA1c levels. Based on the HbA1c threshold, prediabetes was found in 214 individuals. The overall prevalence of diabetes was 7.7% (95% CI 6.2–9.4) and of pre-diabetes was 18.7% (95% CI 16.5–21). Prevalence of both diabetes and pre-diabetes were higher among men than women. A logistic regression model was used to investigate risk factors for undiagnosed diabetes.

Conclusion

The prevalence of diabetes and pre-diabetes in this study is high. Pre-diabetes is a well-established risk factor for progression to diabetes and of cardiovascular disease. Despite efforts to increase awareness and screening for diabetes, some individuals with diabetes remain undiagnosed. Undiagnosed diabetes is highest in younger men (46–64 years). Increased efforts are required to improve detection of diabetes and pre-diabetes and thus, identify and manage this high-risk population.
THE WORLD'S COLONIZATION AND TRADE ROUTES FORMATION AS IMITATED BY SLIME MOULD
Authors: ADAMATZKY ANDREW
Published: September 2012

The plasmodium of Physarum polycephalum is renowned for spanning sources of nutrients with networks of protoplasmic tubes. The networks transport nutrients and metabolites across the plasmodium's body. To imitate a hypothetical colonization of the world and the formation of major transportation routes we cut continents from agar plates arranged in Petri dishes or on the surface of a three-dimensional globe, represent positions of selected metropolitan areas with oat flakes and inoculate the plasmodium in one of the metropolitan areas. The plasmodium propagates towards the sources of nutrients, spans them with its network of protoplasmic tubes and even crosses bare substrate between the continents. From the laboratory experiments we derive weighted Physarum graphs, analyze their structure, compare them with the basic proximity graphs and generalized graphs derived from the Silk Road and the Asia Highway networks.
RESHAPING MODULATION PROFILE TO DECREASE AND INCREASE THE THRESHOLD FOR CHAOTIC BEHAVIOR IN A PUMP-MODULATION Nd:YVO4 LASER
Authors: WEI MING-DAR , HSU CHIH-CHANG
Published: September 2012

This study investigates the changes of the threshold of chaotic behavior in a pump-modulation Nd:YVO4 laser created by varying the shape of the modulation profile. The threshold for chaotic behavior can be increased and decreased when the modulation profiles are reshaped by triangular wave and Jacobi elliptic sine functions, respectively. Experimental results show that sinusoidal-wave, square-wave, and triangular-wave modulations have different chaotic thresholds, agreeing with numerical results. In addition to the dynamic parameters of modulation frequency and modulation depth, the shape of modulation is an important parameter for controlling the nonlinear dynamics in pump-modulation lasers.
SURFACE FITTING AND ERROR ANALYSIS USING FRACTAL INTERPOLATION
Authors: WANG HONG-YONG , JI JIA-BING
Published: September 2012

The fitting of a given continuous surface defined on a rectangular region in ℝ2 is studied by using a fractal interpolation surface, and the error analysis of fitting is made in this paper. The fractal interpolation functions used in surface fitting are generated by a special class of iterated function systems. Some properties of such fractal interpolation functions are discussed. Moreover, the error problems of fitting are investigated by using an operator defined on the space of continuous functions, and the upper estimates of errors are obtained in the sense of two kinds of metrics. Finally, a specific numerical example to illustrate the application of the procedure is also described.
MICROSTRUCTURE AND WEAR PROPERTIES OF LASER CLAD TiB2 + TiC/Fe COMPOSITE COATING
Authors: WANG X. H. , ZHANG M. , DU B. S. , LI S.
Published: September 2012

Iron-based composite coatings reinforced with TiB2–TiC multiple ceramic have been fabricated from a precursor of B4C , TiO2 and Al powders by laser cladding. The effect of TiO2 and Al on the microstructure and wear properties of the coatings was investigated. The results showed that the volume fraction, type and size of the reinforcements were influenced by the content of TiO2 and Al . TiB2 and TiC were evenly distributed in the coating; however, most of Al2O3 were ejected from the coatings, only few of them retained in the coating acting as nucleation core of reinforcement or inclusion. The microhardness and wear resistance of the coatings were improved, whereas the friction coefficients of the coatings were considerably lower than that of substrate.
Standardization of a Phonetic-Phonological Test for European-Portuguese Children
Authors: Lousada M. , Mendes A.P. , Valente A.R. , Hall A.
Published: September 2012

Objective: To develop and standardize a phonetic-phonological test (Teste Fonético-Fonológico-Avaliação da Linguagem Pré-Escolar, TFF-ALPE) for the assessment of European-Portuguese (EP) children’s articulation and phonological abilities. Patients and Methods: In order to standardize TFF-ALPE, 768 children aged 3;0–6;11 participated in this study. The standardization, validity and reliability of TFF-ALPE were analyzed. Results: TFF-ALPE presents strong cohesion and has strong inter- and intrajudge reliability. There was also a strong correlation between the TFF-ALPE data and those obtained in other studies. The content validity was demonstrated by the description of the test domain and the items that comprise TFF-ALPE. Conclusion: TFF-ALPE is a valid and reliable phonetic-phonological assessment instrument that speech-language pathologists can use with EP-speaking children.
High Incidence of Triple-Negative Tumors in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Prospective Study of Breast Cancer Characteristics and Risk Factors in Malian Women Seen in a Bamako University Hospital
Authors: Ly Madani , Antoine Martine , Dembélé Abdoul Karim , Levy Pierre , Rodenas Anita , Touré Boubacari Ali , Badiaga Youssouf , Dembélé Bakary Kossa , Bagayogo Djénèba Coulibaly , Diallo Yacouba Lazare , Koné Abdramane A. , Callard Patrice , Bernaudin Jean-François , Diallo Dapa Aly
Published: September 2012

Objective: Few studies have been conducted on breast cancer in Sub-Saharan Africa and their results have been suspected to be impaired by artefacts. This prospective study was designed to determine tumor and patient characteristics in Mali with control of each methodological step. These data are necessary to define breast cancer treatment guidelines in this country. Methods: Clinical and tumor characteristics and known risk factors were obtained in a consecutive series of 114 patients. Each technical step for the determination of tumor characteristics [histology, TNM, grade, estrogen (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR), HER2, and Ki67] was controlled. Results: Patients had a mean age of 46 years. Most tumors were invasive ductal carcinomas (94%), T3-T4 (90%) with positive nodes (91%), grade III (78%), and ER (61%) and PR (72%) negative. HER2 was overexpressed in 18% of cases. The triple-negative subgroup represented 46%, displaying a particularly aggressive pattern (90% grade III; 88% Ki67 >20%). Conclusion: This study demonstrates the high incidence of aggressive triple-negative tumors in Mali. Apart from a higher prevalence of premenopausal women, no significant difference in risk factors was observed between triple-negative tumors and other tumors. The hormonal therapy systematically prescribed therefore needs to be revised in light of this study.
Bacterial Quorum Sensing: Functional Features and Potential Applications in Biotechnology
Authors: Mangwani Neelam , Dash Hirak Ranjan , Chauhan Ashvini , Das Surajit
Published: September 2012

Quorum sensing (QS) represents an exceptional pattern of cell-to-cell communication in bacteria using self-synthesized signalling molecules known as autoinducers. Various features regulated by QS in bacteria include virulence, biofilm formation, sporulation, genetic competence and bioluminescence, among others. Other than the diverse signalling properties of autoinducers, there are non-signalling properties also associated with these signalling molecules which make them potential antimicrobial agents and metal chelators. Additionally, QS signal antagonism has also been shown to be a promising alternative for blocking pathogenic diseases. Besides, QS has impressive design features useful in tissue engineering and biosensor technology. Although many aspects of QS are well understood, several other features remain largely unknown, especially in biotechnology applications. This review focuses on the functional features and potential applications of QS signalling molecules in biotechnology.
Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in Bariatric Patients with a Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Weingarten Toby N. , Mantilla Carlos B. , Swain James M. , Kendrick Michael L. , Oberhansley Jeff M. , Burcham Robert J. , Ribeiro Tarsila C.R. , Watt Kymberly D. , Schroeder Darrell R. , Narr Bradly J. , Sprung Juraj
Published: September 2012

Objective: To study a possible association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity, managed with noninvasive ventilation, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in bariatric surgical patients. Methods: Medical records of 218 bariatric surgical patients who underwent liver biopsy were reviewed. OSA severity was determined from preoperative polysomnography (apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≤ 15 no/mild OSA vs. AHI ≥ 16 moderate/severe OSA). Patients diagnosed with OSA were prescribed noninvasive ventilation. Patients were categorized according to liver histopathology into 3 groups: i) no liver disease or simple steatosis, ii) mild NASH (steatosis with necroinflammation and mild fibrosis (stage 0–1)), and iii) advanced NASH (steatosis with necroinflammation and more advanced fibrosis (stage ≥ 2)). Results: 125 patients (57%) had no/mild OSA, and 93 (43%) had moderate/severe OSA. There was no difference in serum aminotransferases between patients by OSA severity classification. There was a high prevalence of hepatic histopathological abnormalities: 84% patients had steatosis, 57% had necroinflammation, 34% had fibrotic changes, and 14% had advanced NASH. There was no association between severity of NASH and severity of OSA. Conclusions: There is no association between stage of steatohepatitis and OSA severity among morbidly obese patients managed with noninvasive ventilation.
The Role of Mesoscale Convective Complexes in Southern Africa Summer Rainfall
Authors: Blamey R. C. , Reason C. J. C.
Published: September 2012

A combination of numerous factors, including geographic position, regional orography, and local sea surface temperatures, means that subtropical southern Africa experiences considerable spatial and temporal variability in rainfall and is prone to both frequent flooding and drought events. One system that may contribute to rainfall variability in the region is the mesoscale convective complex (MCC). In this study, Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) data is used to document the precipitation produced by MCCs over southern Africa for the 1998–2006 period.

Most of the rainfall associated with MCCs is found to occur over central Mozambique, extending southward to eastern South Africa. High precipitation totals associated with these systems also occur over the neighboring southwest Indian Ocean, particularly off the northeast coast of South Africa. MCCs are found to contribute up to 20% of the total summer rainfall (November–March) in parts of the eastern region of southern Africa. If the month of March is excluded from the analysis, then the contribution increases up to 24%. In general, the MCC summer rainfall contribution for most of the eastern region is approximately between 8% and 16%. Over the western interior and Botswana and Namibia, the MCC contribution is much less (<6%). It is also evident that there is considerable interannual variability associated with the contribution that these systems make to the total warm season rainfall.
Review of Bi2O3 based glasses for electronics and related applications
Authors: Maeder* T
Published: September 2012

The present work critically reviews the scientific and patent literature on low melting bismuth based oxide glass frits in materials for electronics, sensors and related applications such as sealing glasses, solar cells, architectural and automotive glass, the main motivation being to replace lead based materials by environmentally more benign ones. Due to similar glass forming properties of Bi and Pb, Bi based glasses are the closest ‘drop-in’ alternative for lead bearing formulations, and are therefore actually replacing them in many applications, helped also by previous experience with Bi containing materials in thick film technology and component metallisations. The outstanding issues are discussed, e.g. matching the lowest processing temperatures achieved by the classical lead based glasses without sacrificing durability and stability, as well as stability versus chemical reduction. Finally, consideration is also given to special ‘heavy’ glasses (often containing Bi and Pb together) that are useful in fields such as optics, superconductors and nuclear technology, as well as to specific Bi2O3 containing crystalline compounds.
Efficient experimental design and analysis strategies for the detection of differential expression using RNA-Sequencing
Authors: Robles José A , Qureshi Sumaira E , Stephen Stuart J , Wilson Susan R , Burden Conrad J , Taylor Jennifer M
Published: September 2012

Background

RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) has emerged as a powerful approach for the detection of differential gene expression with both high-throughput and high resolution capabilities possible depending upon the experimental design chosen. Multiplex experimental designs are now readily available, these can be utilised to increase the numbers of samples or replicates profiled at the cost of decreased sequencing depth generated per sample. These strategies impact on the power of the approach to accurately identify differential expression. This study presents a detailed analysis of the power to detect differential expression in a range of scenarios including simulated null and differential expression distributions with varying numbers of biological or technical replicates, sequencing depths and analysis methods.

Results

Differential and non-differential expression datasets were simulated using a combination of negative binomial and exponential distributions derived from real RNA-Seq data. These datasets were used to evaluate the performance of three commonly used differential expression analysis algorithms and to quantify the changes in power with respect to true and false positive rates when simulating variations in sequencing depth, biological replication and multiplex experimental design choices.

Conclusions

This work quantitatively explores comparisons between contemporary analysis tools and experimental design choices for the detection of differential expression using RNA-Seq. We found that the DESeq algorithm performs more conservatively than edgeR and NBPSeq. With regard to testing of various experimental designs, this work strongly suggests that greater power is gained through the use of biological replicates relative to library (technical) replicates and sequencing depth. Strikingly, sequencing depth could be reduced as low as 15% without substantial impacts on false positive or true positive rates.
Quantitative global and gene-specific promoter methylation in relation to biological properties of neuroblastomas
Authors: Kiss Nimrod B , Kogner Per , Johnsen John Inge , Martinsson Tommy , Larsson Catharina , Geli Janos
Published: September 2012

Background

In this study we aimed to quantify tumor suppressor gene (TSG) promoter methylation densities levels in primary neuroblastoma tumors and cell lines. A subset of these TSGs is associated with a CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) in other tumor types.

Methods

The study panel consisted of 38 primary tumors, 7 established cell lines and 4 healthy references. Promoter methylation was determined by bisulphate Pyrosequencing for 14 TSGs; andLINE-1repeat element methylation was used as an indicator of global methylation levels.

Results

Overall mean TSG Z-scores were significantly increased in cases with adverse outcome, but were unrelated to globalLINE-1methylation. CIMP with hypermethylation of three or more gene promoters was observed in 6/38 tumors and 7/7 cell lines. Hypermethylation of one or more TSG (comprising TSGsBLU,CASP8,DCR2,CDH1,RASSF1Aand RASSF2) was evident in 30/38 tumors. By contrast only very low levels of promoter methylation were recorded forAPC,DAPK1,NORE1A,P14,P16,TP73,PTENandRARB. Similar involvements of methylation instability were revealed between cell line models and neuroblastoma tumors. Separate analysis of two proposedCASP8regulatory regions revealed frequent and significant involvement of CpG sites between exon 4 and 5, but modest involvement of the exon 1 region.

Conclusions/significance

The results highlight the involvement of TSG methylation instability in neuroblastoma tumors and cell lines using quantitative methods, support the use of DNA methylation analyses as a prognostic tool for this tumor type, and underscore the relevance of developing demethylating therapies for its treatment.
Analysis of malaria surveillance data in Ethiopia: what can be learned from the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response System?
Authors: Jima Daddi , Wondabeku Milliyon , Alemu Abebe , Teferra Admas , Awel Nuraini , Deressa Wakgari , Adissie Adamu , Tadesse Zerihun , Gebre Teshome , Mosher Aryc W , Richards Frank O , Graves Patricia M
Published: September 2012

Background

Routine malaria surveillance data is useful for assessing incidence and trends over time, and in stratification for targeting of malaria control. The reporting completeness and potential bias of such data needs assessment.

Methods

Data on 17 malaria indicators were extracted from the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response System database for July 2004 to June 2009 (Ethiopian calendar reporting years 1997 to 2001). Reporting units were standardized over time with 2007 census populations. The data were analysed to show reporting completeness, variation in risk by reporting unit, and incidence trends for malaria indicators.

Results

Reporting completeness, estimated as product of unit-month and health facility reporting, was over 80% until 2009, when it fell to 56% during a period of reorganization in the Ministry of Health. Nationally the average estimated annual incidence of reported total malaria for the calendar years 2005 to 2008 was 23.4 per 1000 persons, and of confirmed malaria was 7.6 per 1,000, with no clear decline in out-patient cases over the time period. Reported malaria in-patient admissions and deaths (averaging 6.4 per 10,000 and 2.3 per 100,000 per year respectively) declined threefold between 2005 and 2009, as did admissions and deaths reported as malaria with severe anaemia. Only 8 of 86 reporting units had average annual estimated incidence of confirmed malaria above 20 per 1,000 persons, while 26 units were consistently below five reported cases per 1,000 persons per year.

Conclusion

The Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response System functioned well over the time period mid 2004 to the end of 2008. The data suggest that the scale up of interventions has had considerable impact on malaria in-patient cases and mortality, as reported from health centres and hospitals. These trends must be regarded as relative (over space and time) rather than absolute. The data can be used to stratify areas for improved targeting of control efforts to steadily reduce incidence. They also provide a baseline of incidence estimates against which to gauge future progress towards elimination. Inclusion of climate information over this time period and extension of the dataset to more years is needed to clarify the impact of control measures compared to natural cycles on malaria.