bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rheology of vesicle suspensions under combined steady and oscillating shear flows
Authors: Farutin A. , Misbah C.
Published: April 2012

Viscoelastic properties of complex fluids are usually extracted by applying an oscillatory shear rate ($\dot {\gamma } = \ensuremath{\alpha} {\dot {\gamma } }_{0} \cos (\omega t), $ where $\ensuremath{\alpha} {\dot {\gamma } }_{0} $ is a constant which is small for a linear response to make sense) to the fluid. This leads to a complex effective viscosity where its real part carries information on viscous effects while its imaginary part informs us on elastic properties. We show here theoretically, by taking a dilute vesicle suspension as an example, that application of a pure shearing oscillation misses several interesting microscopic features of the suspension. It is shown that if, in addition to the oscillatory part, a basic constant shear rate is applied to the suspension (so that the total shear rate is $\dot {\gamma } = {\dot {\gamma } }_{0} (1+ \ensuremath{\alpha} \cos \omega t)$, with ${\dot {\gamma } }_{0} $ a constant), then the complex viscosity reveals much more insightful properties of the suspension. First, it is found that the complex viscosity exhibits a resonance for tank-treading vesicles as a function of the frequency of oscillation. This resonance is linked to the fact that vesicles, while being in the stable tank-treading regime (with their main axis having a steady orientation with respect to the flow direction), possess damped oscillatory modes. Second, in the region of parameter space where the vesicle exhibits either vacillating-breathing (permanent oscillations of the main axis about the flow direction and breathing of the shape) or tumbling modes, the complex viscosity shows an infinite number of resonances as a function of the frequency. It is shown that these behaviours markedly differ from that obtained when only the classical oscillation $\dot {\gamma } = \ensuremath{\alpha} {\dot {\gamma } }_{0} \cos (\omega t)$ is applied. The results are obtained numerically by solution of the analytical constitutive equation of a dilute vesicle suspension and confirmed analytically by a linear-response phenomenological theory. It is argued that the same type of behaviour is expected for any suspension of soft entities (capsules, red blood cells, etc.) that exhibit periodic motion under constant shear flow. We shall also discuss the reason why this type of behaviour could not have been captured by existing constitutive laws of complex fluids.
Retirement intentions: what is the role of push factors in predicting retirement intentions?
Authors: OAKMAN JODI , WELLS YVONNE
Published: April 2012

Population ageing will significantly impact labour markets in most Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development countries and as a result individuals will need to remain in paid employment for longer to fund their retirement years. This study examines the retirement intentions of employees of a large public-sector organisation located in Victoria, Australia that was interested in developing policies to assist with retention of their mature-age workforce. Multivariate regression analyses were used to identify the most important predictors of intention to retire. The dependent variable, Intended timing of retirement, was analysed in two forms, as continuous and dichotomised measures. Age and Length of service were strong independent predictors of Intention to retire soon (within five years). Of the work factors that were analysed (Job satisfaction, Job demands, Job control, and Social cohesion), low Job satisfaction and high Social cohesion scores indicated an increased likelihood of retiring soon. The results provide some insight into the development of organisational interventions that might assist with retaining older employees for longer.
Does microglial dysfunction play a role in autism and Rett syndrome?
Authors: Maezawa Izumi , Calafiore Marco , Wulff Heike , Jin Lee-Way
Published: April 2012

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) including classic autism is a group of complex developmental disabilities with core deficits of impaired social interactions, communication difficulties and repetitive behaviors. Although the neurobiology of ASDs has attracted much attention in the last two decades, the role of microglia has been ignored. Existing data are focused on their recognized role in neuroinflammation, which only covers a small part of the pathological repertoire of microglia. This review highlights recent findings on the broader roles of microglia, including their active surveillance of brain microenvironments and regulation of synaptic connectivity, maturation of brain circuitry and neurogenesis. Emerging evidence suggests that microglia respond to pre- and postnatal environmental stimuli through epigenetic interface to change gene expression, thus acting as effectors of experience-dependent synaptic plasticity. Impairments of these microglial functions could substantially contribute to several major etiological factors of autism, such as environmental toxins and cortical underconnectivity. Our recent study on Rett syndrome, a syndromic autistic disorder, provides an example that intrinsic microglial dysfunction due to genetic and epigenetic aberrations could detrimentally affect the developmental trajectory without evoking neuroinflammation. We propose that ASDs provide excellent opportunities to study the influence of microglia on neurodevelopment, and this knowledge could lead to novel therapies.
The ties that bind: family and private life as bars to the deportation of immigrants
Authors: Ronen Yaël
Published: April 2012

This article analyses the way in which the use of the rights to family life and to private life has evolved as a bar to the deportation of immigrants. The analysis focuses on the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) with respect to the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, which uses a rights-based framework; and of the UN Human Rights Committee (HRC) with respect to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which uses a status-based framework. It notes the interaction between the two bodies and the attempt in each forum to modify its normative framework to follow the other's. The article further considers the implications of each normative framework for both integrated immigrants and other immigrants.
Improvements in short‐term forecasting of geomagnetic activity
Authors: Bala Ramkumar , Reiff Patricia
Published: April 2012

We have improved our space weather forecasting algorithms to now predict Dst and AE in addition to Kp for up to 6 h of forecast times. These predictions can be accessed in real time at http://mms.rice.edu/realtime/forecast.html. In addition, in the event of an ongoing or imminent activity, e‐mail “alerts” based on key discriminator levels have been going out to our subscribers since October 2003. The neural network–based algorithms utilize ACE data to generate full 1, 3, and 6 h ahead predictions of these indices from the Boyle index, an empirical approximation that estimates the Earth's polar cap potential using solar wind parameters. Our models yield correlation coefficients of over 0.88, 0.86, and 0.83 for 1 h predictions of Kp, Dst, and AE, respectively, and 0.86, 0.84, and 0.80 when predicting the same but 3 h ahead. Our 6 h ahead predictions, however, have slightly higher uncertainties. Furthermore, the paper also tests other solar wind functions—the Newell driver, the Borovsky control function, and adding solar wind pressure term to the Boyle index—for their ability to predict geomagnetic activity.
Geomagnetically induced currents in a power grid of northeastern Spain
Authors: Torta J. Miquel , Serrano Lluís , Regué J. Ramon , Sánchez Albert M. , Roldán Elionor
Published: April 2012

Using the geomagnetic records of Ebro geomagnetic observatory and taking the plane wave assumption for the external current source and a homogeneous Earth conductivity, a prediction of the effects of the geomagnetic activity on the Catalonian (northeastern Spain) power transmission system has been developed. Although the area is located at midlatitudes, determination of the geoelectric field on the occasion of the largest geomagnetic storms during the last solar cycles indicates amplitudes that are higher than those recorded in southern Africa, where some transformer failures on large transmission systems have been reported. A DC network model of the grid has been constructed, and the geomagnetically induced current (GIC) flows in the power network have been calculated for such extreme events using the electric field at Ebro as a regional proxy. In addition, GICs have been measured at one transformer neutral earthing of the power grid, so that there the accuracy of the model has been assessed. Although the agreement is quite satisfactory, results indicate that better knowledge of the ground conductivity structure is needed. This represents the first attempt to study and measure GICs in southern European power grids, a region considered to have low GIC‐risk up to the present.
A treatment for Polygala of northern Australia
Authors: Kerrigan Raelee A.
Published: April 2012

A taxonomic treatment is presented for all Polygala L. species of northern Australia (north of 26°S). In total, 45 species are treated, of which 44 are native and 36 are endemic to Australia. Twenty-six new species and four new varieties are described. A key to all 50 Australian species is provided, including six introduced species (five of which are restricted to southern states of Australia and are not treated here in detail). Lectotypes are here designated for five names. Nomenclatural issues regarding P. linariifolia Willd., P. glaucoides L. and P. triflora L. are discussed.
Navigating the floral Milky Way: the taxonomy of the microgeophytic triggerplants (Stylidium petiolare and allies: Stylidiaceae)
Authors: Wege Juliet A.
Published: April 2012

Stylidium petiolare Sond. and allies (Stylidiaceae) are a group of diminutive triggerplants from southern Western Australia that have evolved small corms capable of significant desiccation during summer dormancy. A taxonomic review of these microgeophytes has identified 14 taxa, of which S. cornuatum Wege, S. scintillans Wege and S. xanthellum Wege are newly described and S. asteroideum F.L.Erickson & J.H.Willis and S. rubricalyx F.L.Erickson & J.H.Willis are reinstated. S. emarginatum subsp. exappendiculatum Lowrie & Carlquist and S. emarginatum subsp. decipiens Carlquist are elevated to species level and their respective distributions significantly expanded following the assessment of herbarium specimens and field survey. Revised descriptions are provided for S. emarginatum Sond., S. insensitivum Carlquist, S. obtusatum Sond., S. periscelianthum F.L.Erickson & J.H.Willis, S. petiolare Sond., S. pulchellum Sond. and S. udusicola Lowrie & Kenneally. S. bolgartense F.L.Erickson & J.H.Willis is retained as a synonym of a broadly defined S. obtusatum, and S. petiolare var. paucifoliatum Sond. is newly placed into synonymy under S. xanthellum. Lectotypes are selected for S. asteroideum, S. emarginatum, S. petiolare, S. petiolare var. paucifoliatum, S. pulchellum and S. obtusatum. S. emarginatum var. macranthum E.Pritz. is newly placed into synonymy under S. emarginatum, with a neotype designated. S. scintillans, discovered during surveys of mining leases in the Yalgoo region, is considered Threatened in Western Australia, whereas S. asteroideum, S. cornuatum, S. exappendiculatum (Lowrie & Carlquist) Wege, S. periscelianthum and S. rubricalyx are all listed as being of conservation concern. Further field survey and collections of the microgeophytic triggerplants are required to refine the taxonomy presented herein and to better understand the distribution and conservation status of these taxa.
Downriver Passage of Juvenile Blueback Herring near an Ultrasonic Field in the Mohawk River
Authors: Dunning Dennis J. , Gurshin Christopher W. D.
Published: April 2012

At the Crescent Hydroelectric Project (Crescent), New York, the Mohawk River is impounded by two dams separated by an island, which creates two channels; the turbine channel conveys water to the hydroelectric turbines, and the main channel conveys water around the turbines. Our objective was to determine whether ultrasound could be used to divert juvenile blueback herring Alosa aestivalis from entering the turbine channel during their fall downriver migration. Fixed-location hydroacoustics (420 kHz) was used to continuously monitor fish passage in the main channel upriver and downriver of the 122–128-kHz ultrasonic projectors. A relative index of abundance was derived from echo integration of acoustic backscatter collected from three horizontally aimed single-beam transducers sampling across each channel, while the proportion and speed of fish moving downriver were estimated from upward-facing split-beam transducers. The presence of juvenile blueback herring was verified by castnetting. Fish migrated downriver episodically for periods of hours rather than days. The mean daily number of downstream migrants (Nd) in the main channel was estimated to be 4.2 times higher at the upriver site than at the downriver site. The estimate for Nd at the main-channel downriver site (NDM) was compared with the expected Nd (NEDM) based on the proportion of total river flow moving through the main-channel downriver site as measured by acoustic Doppler current profilers. The mean daily difference between NDM and NEDM was significantly different from zero. The estimated proportion of fish that passed the main-channel downriver site (31.3%) was almost three times greater than the proportion expected (11.5%). If it is valid to assume that water flow directly influences entrainment and impingement, then the significantly higher-than-expected number of blueback herring that migrated downriver in the main channel could be an indication that ultrasound at Crescent was partially effective in diverting fish.

Received July 17, 2011; accepted February 2, 2012
The time-course of recovery from interruption during reading: Eye movement evidence for the role of interruption lag and spatial memory
Authors: Cane James E. , Cauchard Fabrice , Weger Ulrich W.
Published: April 2012

Two experiments examined how interruptions impact reading and how interruption lags and the reader's spatial memory affect the recovery from such interruptions. Participants read paragraphs of text and were interrupted unpredictably by a spoken news story while their eye movements were monitored. Time made available for consolidation prior to responding to the interruption did not aid reading resumption. However, providing readers with a visual cue that indicated the interruption location did aid task resumption substantially in Experiment 2. Taken together, the findings show that the recovery from interruptions during reading draws on spatial memory resources and can be aided by processes that support spatial memory. Practical implications are discussed.
Cell migration: Fibroblasts find a new way to get ahead
Authors: Sixt Michael
Published: April 2012

Fibroblasts migrate on two-dimensional (2D) surfaces by forming lamellipodia—actin-rich extensions at the leading edge of the cell that have been well characterized. In this issue, Petrie et al. (2012. J. Cell Biol. http://dx.doi.org/10.1083/jcb.201201124) show that in some 3D environments, including tissue explants, fibroblasts project different structures, termed lobopodia, at the leading edge. Lobopodia still assemble focal adhesions; however, similar to membrane blebs, they are driven by actomyosin contraction and do not accumulate active Rac, Cdc42, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases.
Towards quantitative magnetic force microscopy: theory and experiment
Authors: Häberle Thomas , Haering Felix , Pfeifer Holger , Han Luyang , Achinuq Barat , Wiedwald Ulf , Herr Ulrich , Koslowski Berndt
Published: April 2012

We introduce a simple and effective model of a commercial magnetic thin-film sensor for magnetic force microscopy (MFM), and we test the model employing buried magnetic dipoles. The model can be solved analytically in the half-space in front of the sensor tip, leading to a simple 1/R dependence of the magnetic stray field projected to the symmetry axis. The model resolves the earlier issue as to why the magnetic sensors cannot be described reasonably by a restricted multipole expansion as in the point pole approximation: the point pole model must be extended to incorporate a ‘lower-order’ pole, which we term ‘pseudo-pole’. The near-field dependence (∝R
−1) turns into the well-known and frequently used dipole behavior (∝R
−3) if the separation, R, exceeds the height of the sensor. Using magnetic nanoparticles (average diameter 18 nm) embedded in a SiO cover as dipolar point probes, we show that the force gradient–distance curves and magnetic images fit almost perfectly to the proposed model. The easy axis of magnetization of single nanoparticles is successfully deduced from these magnetic images. Our model paves the way for quantitative MFM, at least if the sensor and the sample are independent.
A 𝑇(1)-theorem in relation to a semigroup of operators and applications to new paraproducts
Authors: Bernicot Frédéric
Published: April 2012

In this work, we are interested in developing new directions of the famous

T
(
1
)

T(1)

-theorem. More precisely, we develop a general framework where we look to replace the John-Nirenberg space

B
M
O

BMO

(in the classical result) by a new

B
M

O

L

BMO_{L}

, associated to a semigroup of operators

(

e

−
t
L

)

t
>
0

(e^{-tL})_{t>0}

. These new spaces

B
M

O
L

BMO_L

(including

B
M
O

BMO

) have recently appeared in numerous works in order to extend the theory of Hardy and

B
M
O

BMO

space to more general situations. Then we give applications by describing boundedness for a new kind of paraproduct, built on the considered semigroup. In addition we obtain a version of the classical

T
(
1
)

T(1)

-theorem for doubling Riemannian manifolds.
Graded decomposition matrices of 𝑣-Schur algebras via Jantzen filtration
Authors: Shan Peng
Published: April 2012

We prove that certain parabolic Kazhdan-Lusztig polynomials calculate the graded decomposition matrices ofvv-Schur algebras given by the Jantzen filtration of Weyl modules, confirming a conjecture of Leclerc and Thibon.
Water vapour foreign-continuum absorption in near-infrared windows from laboratory measurements
Authors: Ptashnik Igor V. , McPheat Robert A. , Shine Keith P. , Smith Kevin M. , Williams R. Gary
Published: April 2012

For a long time, it has been believed that atmospheric absorption of radiation within wavelength regions of relatively high infrared transmittance (so-called ‘windows’) was dominated by the water vapour self-continuum, that is, spectrally smooth absorption caused by H
2
O−H
2
O pair interaction. Absorption due to the foreign continuum (i.e. caused mostly by H
2
O−N
2
bimolecular absorption in the Earth's atmosphere) was considered to be negligible in the windows. We report new retrievals of the water vapour foreign continuum from high-resolution laboratory measurements at temperatures between 350 and 430 K in four near-infrared windows between 1.1 and 5 μm (9000–2000 cm
−1
). Our results indicate that the foreign continuum in these windows has a very weak temperature dependence and is typically between one and two orders of magnitude stronger than that given in representations of the continuum currently used in many climate and weather prediction models. This indicates that absorption owing to the foreign continuum may be comparable to the self-continuum under atmospheric conditions in the investigated windows. The calculated global-average clear-sky atmospheric absorption of solar radiation is increased by approximately 0.46 W m
−2
(or 0.6% of the total clear-sky absorption) by using these new measurements when compared with calculations applying the widely used MTCKD (Mlawer–Tobin–Clough–Kneizys–Davies) foreign-continuum model.
The water vapour self- and water–nitrogen continuum absorption in the 1000 and 2500 cm
−1
atmospheric windows
Authors: Baranov Yu. I. , Lafferty W. J.
Published: April 2012

The pure water vapour and water–nitrogen continuum absorption in the 1000 and 2500 cm
−1
atmospheric windows has been studied using a 2 m base-length White-type multi-pass cell coupled with a BOMEM DA3-002 Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. The measurements were carried out at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST, Gaithersburg, MD) over the course of several years (2004, 2006–2007, 2009). New data on the H
2
O:N
2
continuum in the 1000 cm
−1
window are presented and summarized along with the other experimental results and the continuum model. The experimental data reported on the water vapour continuum in these atmospheric windows basically agree with the most reliable laboratory data from the other sources. The MT_CKD (MlawerTobinCloughKneizysDavies) continuum model significantly departs from the experimental data in both windows. The deviation observed includes the continuum magnitude, spectral behaviour and temperature dependence. In the 2500 cm
−1
region, the model does not allow for the nitrogen fundamental collision-induced absorption (CIA) band intensity enhancement caused by H
2
O:N
2
collisions and underestimates the actual absorption by over two orders of magnitude. The water vapour continuum interpretation as a typical CIA spectrum is reviewed and discussed.
Global spectroscopy of the water monomer
Authors: Polyansky Oleg L. , Zobov Nikolay F. , Mizus Irina I. , Lodi Lorenzo , Yurchenko Sergei N. , Tennyson Jonathan , Császár Attila G. , Boyarkin Oleg V.
Published: April 2012

Given the large energy required for its electronic excitation, the most important properties of the water molecule are governed by its ground potential energy surface (PES). Novel experiments are now able to probe this surface over a very extended energy range, requiring new theoretical procedures for their interpretation. As part of this study, a new, accurate, global spectroscopic-quality PES and a new, accurate, global dipole moment surface are developed. They are used for the computation of the high-resolution spectrum of water up to the first dissociation limit and beyond as well as for the determination of Stark coefficients for high-lying states. The water PES has been determined by combined
ab initio
and semi-empirical studies. As a first step, a very accurate, global,
ab initio
PES was determined using the all-electron, internally contracted multi-reference configuration interaction technique together with a large Gaussian basis set. Scalar relativistic energy corrections are also determined in order to move the energy determinations close to the relativistic complete basis set full configuration interaction limit. The electronic energies were computed for a set of about 2500 geometries, covering carefully selected configurations from equilibrium up to dissociation. Nuclear motion computations using this PES reproduce the observed energy levels up to 39 000 cm
−1
with an accuracy of better than 10 cm
−1
. Line positions and widths of resonant states above dissociation show an agreement with experiment of about 50 cm
−1
. An improved semi-empirical PES is produced by fitting the
ab initio
PES to accurate experimental data, resulting in greatly improved accuracy, with a maximum deviation of about 1 cm
−1
for all vibrational band origins. Theoretical results based on this semi-empirical surface are compared with experimental data for energies starting at 27 000 cm
−1
, going all the way up to dissociation at about 41 000 cm
−1
and a few hundred wavenumbers beyond it.
Models of very-low-mass stars, brown dwarfs and exoplanets
Authors: Allard F. , Homeier D. , Freytag B.
Published: April 2012

Within the next few years, GAIA and several instruments aiming to image extrasolar planets will be ready. In parallel, low-mass planets are being sought around red dwarfs, which offer more favourable conditions, for both radial velocity detection and transit studies, than solar-type stars. In this paper, the authors of a model atmosphere code that has allowed the detection of water vapour in the atmosphere of hot Jupiters review recent advances in modelling the stellar to substellar transition. The revised solar oxygen abundances and cloud model allow the photometric and spectroscopic properties of this transition to be reproduced for the first time. Also presented are highlight results of a model atmosphere grid for stars, brown dwarfs and extrasolar planets.
Water in exoplanets
Authors: Tinetti Giovanna , Tennyson Jonathan , Griffith Caitlin A. , Waldmann Ingo
Published: April 2012

Exoplanets—planets orbiting around stars other than our own Sun—appear to be common. Significant research effort is now focused on the observation and characterization of exoplanet atmospheres. Species such as water vapour, methane, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide have been observed in a handful of hot, giant, gaseous planets, but cooler, smaller planets such as Gliese 1214b are now analysable with current telescopes. Water is the key chemical dictating habitability. The current observations of water in exoplanets from both space and the ground are reviewed. Controversies surrounding the interpretation of these observations are discussed. Detailed consideration of available radiative transfer models and linelists are used to analyse these differences in interpretation. Models suggest that there is a clear need for data on the pressure broadening of water transitions by H
2
at high temperatures. The reported detections of water appear to be robust, although final confirmation will have to await the better quality observational data provided by currently planned dedicated space missions.
Medicinal and Environmental Indicator Species ofUtriculariafrom Montane Forest of Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Haron Noorma Wati , Chew Ming Yee
Published: April 2012

The carnivorousUtricularia(Lentibulariaceae) is a small herb of multifarious wet habitats worldwide. Eleven of the 14 Peninsular Malaysian species range into the mountains. Distribution, disturbance adaptability and collection frequency were used to formulate their commonness category. Common (U. aurea,U. bifida, andU. minutissima) and fairly common (U. gibbaandU. uliginosa) species are mostly lowland plants that ascend to open montane microhabitats, while the fairly common (U. striatula), narrow-range (U. caeruleapink form andU. involvens), rare (U. furcellataandU. scandens), and endemic (U. vitellina) species are restricted to mountainous sites. Common species that colonise dystrophic to oligotrophic man-made sites in late succession could serve as predictors for general health and recovery of wet habitats. Rarer species are often locally abundant, their niches situated around pristine forest edges. When in decline, they indicate the beginning of problems affecting the forest.Utriculariais reportedly nutritious, mildly astringent, and diuretic. Preadapted to nutrient-poor, waterlogged soils,U. bifidais suitable as an alternative for small-scale herb cultivation on low pH, wet poor soils usually deemed not suitable for any crops.
Better Outcomes in Severe and Morbid Obese Patients(BMI>35 kg/m2)in Primary Endo-Model Rotating-Hinge Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Lozano Luis M. , López Vicente , Ríos José , Popescu Dragos , Torner Pere , Castillo Félix , Maculé Francisco
Published: April 2012

The Endo-Model rotating-hinge prosthesis is preferably indicated as a primary implant in patients with advanced axial deviation of the lower limbs or unstable knees with severe bone defects. Outcomes were studied in 111 knees, operated in a three-year period; the mean followup was 28 months. Joint balance enhancement and limbs mechanical axis correction were achieved after surgery. There were 6 deep infections and 16 patients referred postoperative anterior knee pain. WOMAC index scores disaggregated by gender and BMI showed better outcomes in obese patients (specifically, those with a BMI of 35–40 kg/m2) and in men. Although the lack of a control group did not allow definite conclusions and despite a nonnegligible complication rate, our results reveal that the Endo-Model total knee arthroplasty can be a useful tool to deal with severe and morbid obese patients affected of severe gonarthrosis associated with marked axial deviations, ligament instability, or bone defects.
Acceleration of Anaerobic Cysteine Transformations to Sulfane Sulfur Consequent toγ-Glutamyl Transpeptidase Inhibition
Authors: Kwiecień Inga , Iciek Małgorzata , Włodek Lidia
Published: April 2012

Toxicity of drugs and radiation in the cells is largely dependent on the level of thiols. In the present studies, an attempt has been made to inhibit γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (γGT) activity in EAT-bearing animals tissue. We have expected that administration of γGT inhibitors: acivicin and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline (TIQ) may influence GSH/γ–glutamyl transpeptidase (γGT) system in the regulation of cysteine concentration and anaerobic cysteine metabolism in normal and cancer cells. Development of Ehrlich ascites tumor in mice enhances peroxidative processes, diminishes levels of nonprotein thiols (NPSH) and sulfane sulfur, and lowers activities of enzymes involved in its formation and transfer in the liver and kidney. Although γGT inhibitors further decrease NPSH level, they increase cysteine and sulfane sulfur levels. This means that upon γGT inhibition, cysteine can be efficiently acquired by normal liver and kidney cells via another pathway, that is so productive that sulfane sulfur level and intensity of anaerobic cysteine metabolism even rise.
Distribution of Extrasynaptic NMDA Receptors on Neurons
Authors: Petralia Ronald S.
Published: April 2012

NMDA receptors are found in both synaptic and extrasynaptic locations on neurons. NMDA receptors also can be found on neurons in early stages prior to synaptogenesis, where they may be involved in migration and differentiation. Extrasynaptic NMDA receptors typically are associated with contacts with adjacent processes such as axons and glia. Extrasynaptic NMDA receptor clusters vary in size and may form associations with scaffolding proteins such as PSD-95 and SAP102. The best-characterized extrasynaptic NMDA receptors contain NR1 and NR2B subunits. Extrasynaptic NMDA receptors may be activated by glutamate spillover from synapses or from ectopic release of glutamate. Consequently, extrasynaptic NMDA receptor activation may occur under different circumstances than that for synaptic NMDA receptors, indicating different functional consequences for the neuron. In some cases, activation of extrasynaptic NMDA receptors may have a negative influence on the neuron, leading to cell damage and death, as may occur in some major diseases of the nervous system.
Impact of a Preemptive Multimodal Analgesia plus Femoral Nerve Blockade Protocol on Rehabilitation, Hospital Length of Stay, and Postoperative Analgesia after Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Controlled Clinical Pilot Study
Authors: Beaupre Lauren A. , Johnston D. Bill C. , Dieleman Sherry , Tsui Ban
Published: April 2012

Purpose. To compare preemptive multimodal analgesia (PMMA) without femoral nerve blocks (FNB) to PMMA including FNB following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).Methods. In a prospective, controlled pilot study, subjects with noninflammatory arthritis undergoing TKA and a short postoperative stay received either PMMA + FNB (FNB group;n=19) or PMMA only (PMMA group;n=20). No preoperative group differences were noted. Evaluations occurred in hospital and at 2, 6, and 12 weeks postoperatively. The primary outcome (knee flexion) was measured on day two postoperatively. Rehabilitation indices, pain, analgesic use, and length of stay (LOS) were also measured.Results. All subjects completed the study. The only significant group differences were quadriceps motor blocks in the FNB group (P<0.001). No significant differences were noted in ROM, pain levels, analgesic use, or hospital LOS.Conclusion. Other than the quadriceps motor block, no group differences were noted; both achieved satisfactory analgesia. Best postoperative pain management strategies when following a short hospital stay program are still unclear.
A Constitutively Mannose-Sensitive AgglutinatingSalmonella entericasubsp.entericaSerovar Typhimurium Strain, Carrying a Transposon in the Fimbrial Usher GenestbC, Exhibits Multidrug Resistance and Flagellated Phenotypes
Authors: Wu Kuan-Hsun , Wang Ke-Chuan , Lee Lin-Wen , Huang Yi-Ning , Yeh Kuang-Sheng
Published: April 2012

Static broth culture favorsSalmonella entericasubsp.entericaserovar Typhimurium to produce type 1 fimbriae, while solid agar inhibits its expression. A transposon inserted instbC, which would encode an usher for Stb fimbriae of a non-flagellarSalmonella entericasubsp.entericaserovar Typhimurium LB5010 strain, conferred it to agglutinate yeast cells on both cultures. RT-PCR revealed that the expression of the fimbrial subunit genefimA, andfimZ, a regulatory gene offimA, were both increased in thestbCmutant when grown on LB agar;fimW, a repressor gene offimA, exhibited lower expression. Flagella were observed in thestbCmutant and this phenotype was correlated with the motile phenotype. Microarray data and RT-PCR indicated that the expression of three genes,motA, motB, andcheM, was enhanced in thestbCmutant. ThestbCmutant was resistant to several antibiotics, consistent with the finding that expression ofyhcQandramAwas enhanced. A complementation test revealed that transforming a recombinant plasmid possessing thestbCrestored the mannose-sensitive agglutination phenotype to thestbCmutant much as that in the parentalSalmonella entericasubsp.entericaserovar Typhimurium LB5010 strain, indicating the possibility of an interplay of different fimbrial systems in coordinating their expression.
Survival after Cardiac Arrest and Changing Task Profile of the Cardiac Arrest Team in a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Möhnle Patrick , Huge Volker , Polasek Jan , Weig Isabella , Atzinger Rolf , Kreimeier Uwe , Briegel Josef
Published: April 2012

Background. The characteristics of in-hospital emergency response systems, survival rates, and variables associated with survival after in-hospital cardiac arrest vary significantly among medical centers worldwide. Aiming to optimize in-hospital emergency response, we performed an analysis of survival after in-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the task profile of our cardiac arrest team.Methods. In-hospital emergencies handled by the cardiac arrest team in the years 2004 to 2006 were analyzed retrospectively, and patient and event characteristics were tested for their associations with survival after cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The results were compared to a similar prior analysis for the years 1995 to 1997.Results. After cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the survival rate to discharge was 30.2% for the years 2004 to 2006 compared to 25.1% for the years 1995 to 1997 (difference not statistically significant). Survival after one year was 18.5 %. An increasing percentage of emergency calls not corresponding to medical emergencies other than cardiac arrest was observed.Conclusions. The observed survival rates are considerably high to published data. We suggest that for further improvement of in-hospital emergency response systems regular training of all hospital staff members in immediate life support is essential. Furthermore, future training of cardiac arrest team members must include basic emergency response to a variety of medical conditions besides cardiac arrest.
An Efficient In Vitro Propagation Protocol of Cocoyam [Xanthosoma sagittifolium(L) Schott]
Authors: Sama Anne E. , Hughes Harrison G. , Abbas Mohamed S. , Shahba Mohamed A.
Published: April 2012

Sprouted corm sections of “South Dade” white cocoyam were potted and maintained in a greenhouse for 8 weeks. Shoot tips of 3–5 mm comprising the apical meristem with 4–6 leaf primordial, and approximately 0.5 mm of corm tissue at the base. These explants were treated to be used into the culture medium. A modified Gamborg’s B5 mineral salts supplemented with 0.05 μM 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) were used throughout the study. Thidiazuron (TDZ) solution containing 0.01% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was used. Erlenmeyer flasks and test tubes were used for growing cultures. The effect of different media substrate, thidiazuron, and the interaction between TDZ and Benzylaminopurine (BAP) on cocoyam culture were tested. Results indicated that cocoyam can be successfully micropropagated in vitro through various procedures. All concentrations tested (5–20 μM BAP and 1–4 μM TDZ) produced more axillary shoots per shoot tip than the control without cytokinins. Greater proliferation rates were obtained through the use of 20 μM BAP and 2 μM TDZ, respectively, 12 weeks from initiation. Shoots produced with BAP were larger and more normal in appearance than those produced with TDZ, which were small, compressed, and stunted. The use of stationary liquid media is recommended for economic reasons.
Model Thermohaline Trends in the Mediterranean Sea during the Last Years: A Change with Respect to the Last Decades?
Authors: Soto-Navarro F. Javier , Criado-Aldeanueva Francisco
Published: April 2012

Temperature and salinity outputs from ECCO (years 93–09) and GLORYS (years 03–09) models have been used to compute the thermohaline and steric sea level trends in the surface (0–150 m), intermediate (150 m–600 m), and deep (600 m–bottom) layers of the Mediterranean Sea. Some changes with respect to the second half of the 20th century have been observed: the cooling of the upper waters of the entire eastern basin since 1950 seems to have vanished; the warming of WMDW historically reported for the second half of the last century could have reversed, although there is no agreement between both models at this point (trends of different sign are predicted); the salinification of WMDW reported for the previous decades is not observed in the south-westernmost area in the period 93–09, and a clear change from positive to negative in the steric sea level trend with respect to the period 93–05 is detected due to the sharp decreasing steric sea level of years 02–06.
Monocytes Do Not Transdifferentiate into Proper Osteoblasts
Authors: Schmitt Andreas , Ehnert Sabrina , Schyschka Lilianna , Buschner Peter , Kühnl Andreas , Döbele Stefan , Siebenlist Sebastian , Lucke Martin , Stöckle Ulrich , Nussler Andreas K.
Published: April 2012

Recent publications suggested that monocytes might be an attractive cell type to transdifferentiate into various cellular phenotypes. Aim was, therefore, to evaluate the potential of blood monocytes to transdifferentiate into osteoblasts. Monocytes isolated from peripheral blood were subjected to two previously published treatments to obtain unique, multipotent cell fractions, named programmable cells of monocytic origin (PCMOs) and monocyte-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells (MOMPs). Subsequently, MOMPs and PCMOs were treated with osteogenic differentiation medium (including either vitamin D or dexamethasone) for 14 days. Regarding a variety of surface markers, no differences between MOMPs, PCMOs, and primary monocytes could be detected. The treatment with osteogenic medium neither resulted in loss of hematopoietic markers nor in adoption of mesenchymal phenotype in all cell types. No significant effect was observed regarding the expression of osteogenic transcription factors, bone-related genes, or production of mineralized matrix. Osteogenic medium resulted in activation of monocytes and appearance of osteoclasts. In conclusion, none of the investigated monocyte cell types showed any transdifferentiation characteristics under the tested circumstances. Based on our data, we rather see an activation and maturation of monocytes towards macrophages and osteoclasts.
Evaluation of Minerals Content of Drinking Water in Malaysia
Authors: Azlan Azrina , Khoo Hock Eng , Idris Mohd Aizat , Ismail Amin , Razman Muhammad Rizal
Published: April 2012

The drinking and mineral water samples obtained from different geographical locations had concentrations of the selected minerals lower than the standard limits, except for manganese, arsenic, and fluoride. The concentrations of manganese and arsenic in two mineral water samples were slightly higher than the standard international recommended limits. One mineral water sample had a fluoride concentration higher than the standard limits, whereas manganese was not detected in nine drinking and mineral water samples. Most of the selected minerals found in the tap water samples were below the international standard limits, except for iron and manganese. The concentrations of iron and manganese in the tap water samples were higher than the standard limits, which were obtained from one and three of the studied locations, respectively. The potable water obtained from various manufacturers and locations in Peninsular Malaysia is safe for consumption, as the minerals concentrations were below the standard limits prescribed by the Malaysian Food Regulations of 1985. The data obtained may also provide important information related to daily intake of these minerals from drinking water.
The Effects of Addition of Mononucleotides on Sma nuc Endonuclease Activity
Authors: Romanova Julia , Filimonova Maria
Published: April 2012

Examination of the effects of mononucleotides on Sma nuc endonuclease originated from Gram negative bacteriumSerratia marcescensdisplayed that any mononucleotide produced by Sma nuc during hydrolysis of DNA or RNA may regulate the enzyme activity affecting the RNase activity without pronounced influence on the activity towards DNA. The type of carbohydrate residue in mononucleotides does not affect the regulation. In contrast, the effects depend on the type of bases in nucleotides. AMP or dAMP was classified as a competitive inhibitor of partial type. GMP, UMP, and CMP were found to be uncompetitive inhibitors that suggest a specific site(s) for the nucleotide(s) binding in Sma nuc endonuclease.
Ru (III) Catalyzed Oxidation of Aliphatic Ketones by N-Bromosuccinimide in Aqueous Acetic Acid: A Kinetic Study
Authors: Giridhar Reddy P. , Ramesh K. , Shylaja S. , Rajanna K. C. , Kandlikar S.
Published: April 2012

Kinetics of Ru (III) catalyzed oxidation of aliphatic ketones such as acetone, ethyl methyl ketone, diethyl ketone, iso-butylmethyl ketone by N-bromosuccinimide in the presence of Hg(II) acetate have been studied in aqueous acid medium. The order of [N-bromosuccinimide] was found to be zero both in catalyzed as well as uncatalyzed reactions. However, the order of [ketone] changed from unity to a fractional one in the presence of Ru (III). On the basis of kinetic features, the probable mechanisms are discussed and individual rate parameters evaluated.
Some Problems in Proving the Existence of the Universal Common Ancestor of Life on Earth
Authors: Yonezawa Takahiro , Hasegawa Masami
Published: April 2012

Although overwhelming circumstantial evidence supports the existence of the universal common ancestor of all extant life on Earth, it is still an open question whether the universal common ancestor existed or not. Theobald (Nature 465, 219–222 (2010)) recently challenged this problem with a formal statistical test applied to aligned sequences of conservative proteins sampled from all domains of life and concluded that the universal common ancestor hypothesis holds. However, we point out that there is a fundamental flaw in Theobald's method which used aligned sequences. We show that the alignment gives a strong bias for the common ancestor hypothesis, and we provide an example that Theobald's method supports a common ancestor hypothesis for two apparently unrelated families of protein-encoding sequences (cytbandnd2of mitochondria). This arouses suspicion about the effectiveness of the “formal” test.
Positive Identity as a Positive Youth Development Construct: A Conceptual Review
Authors: Tsang Sandra K. M. , Hui Eadaoin K. P. , Law Bella C. M.
Published: April 2012

Identity is a core construct in psychology because it refers to how a person addresses issues dealing with who that person is. Important theorists studying the concept of identity, like Erikson, Marcia, and Higgins, assert that identity is organized,is learned, and is dynamic, and a subjective evaluation of an individual’s identity has emotional consequences for that individual. Adolescents who can cultivate a clear and positive identity after their developmental struggles during adolescence often advance more smoothly into adulthood. This paper reviews literature on the nature and structure of identity and examines its importance on adolescent developmental outcomes. It traces significant determinants of identity and proposes strategies for cultivation of positive identity. Observations on current research gaps in the study of identity and future research directions will also be discussed.
Risk of colorectal adenomas and advanced neoplasia in Hispanic, black and white patients undergoing screening colonoscopy
Authors: Lebwohl B. , Capiak K. , Neugut A. I. , Kastrinos F.
Published: April 2012

Background

Racial and ethnic differences in the risk of premalignant colorectal neoplasia have not been extensively studied.

Aim

To measure adenoma prevalence among asymptomatic white, black and Hispanic patients undergoing screening colonoscopy.

Methods

In this cross sectional cohort study, data from individuals ≥50 years undergoing first‐time colonoscopy since 2006 at a single tertiary‐care medical centre were obtained from the electronic medical record. Adenoma prevalence among whites, blacks and Hispanics was calculated; multivariate Poisson and logistic regression were used to identify factors independently associated with adenoma rates and the presence of advanced adenomas.

Results

We identified 5075 eligible subjects: 3542 (70%) whites, 942 (18%) Hispanics and 591 (12%) blacks. The mean age was 62.2 years with 58% women. At least one adenoma was detected in 19%, 22% and 26% of whites, Hispanics and blacks respectively (Hispanics vs. whites P = 0.09; blacks vs. whites P = 0.0001). Isolated proximal adenomas were present in 9% of whites, 11% of Hispanics (P = 0.03) and 11% of blacks (P = 0.03). In multivariate analyses, a higher rate of adenomas was present in Hispanics (RR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.20–1.57) and blacks (RR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.52–2.04) than whites. Hispanics and blacks also had an increased risk of advanced adenomas compared to whites (ORHispanics: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.62–3.11; ORblacks: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.27–2.86).

Conclusions

Adenoma prevalence was higher in blacks and Hispanics than in whites. Both groups were at greater risk of having proximal adenomas in the absence of any distal pathology than whites, where these lesions would have only been detected by colonoscopy. Efforts to promote screening are necessary among diverse, under‐represented populations.
A randomised trial comparing the CEL‐100 videolaryngoscopeTM with the Macintosh laryngoscope blade for insertion of double‐lumen tubes
Authors: Lin W. , Li H. , Liu W. , Cao L. , Tan H. , Zhong Z.
Published: April 2012

We performed a randomised trial comparing the CEL‐100 videolaryngoscopeTM with the Macintosh laryngoscope blade in 170 patients undergoing double‐lumen tube placement for thoracic surgery. Compared with the Macintosh laryngoscope blade, use of the CEL‐100 resulted in significantly more patients with a Cormack and Lehane Grade‐1 laryngeal view (90.4% vs 61.0%, p < 0.001), a higher rate of successful intubation on the first attempt (92.8% vs 79.3%, p = 0.012), a lower median (IQR [range]) intubation difficulty score (0 (0–0 [0–60]) vs 15 (0–30 [0–80]), p < 0.001), a higher incidence of correct positioning of the tube (90.3% vs 79.2%, p = 0.041) and significantly fewer patients requiring external laryngeal pressure (19.3% vs 32.9%, p = 0.046). Median (IQR [range]) time to successful intubation was 45 (38–55 [22–132]) s with the CEL‐100 compared with 51 (40–61 [30–160] s using the Macintosh laryngoscope blade. We conclude that the CEL‐100 videolaryngoscope is superior to the Macintosh laryngoscope blade for double‐lumen tube insertion.