bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Role for the New Financial Stability Board? The Politics of International Standards after the Crisis
Authors: Helleiner Eric
Published: October 2010

Created in April 2009, the Financial Stability Board (FSB) represents the G20 leaders’ first major international institutional innovation. Why was it established and what role will it play in global economic governance? The creation of the FSB has been linked to a US‐led effort to strengthen an international prudential standards regime that had evolved in the years leading up to the 2007–08 global financial crisis. The FSB faces a number of serious challenges in its new role: developing effective mechanisms for monitoring and encouraging compliance; promoting the development of effective international standards and fostering consensus on their content; establishing its legitimacy vis‐à‐vis non‐members and within member countries; and clarifying its relationship with other global governance institutions. Since these are very difficult tasks, the FSB may be forced to assume a less ambitious role in international regulatory politics than some of its creators initially envisioned.

Policy Implications

 The creation of the FSB is part of an ambitious effort to strengthen international prudential standards in response to the recent global financial crisis.

 The FSB faces many challenges: developing effective mechanisms for monitoring and encouraging compliance; promoting the development of effective international standards and fostering consensus on their content; establishing its legitimacy vis‐à‐vis non‐members and within member countries; and clarifying its relationship with other global governance institutions.

 If these challenges prove too daunting, the FSB can still play an important, though less ambitious, role of fostering international cooperation to support a more pluralistic and decentralized international regulatory order.
Inconclusive Wars: Is Clausewitz Still Relevant in these Global Times?
Authors: Kaldor Mary
Published: October 2010

This article argues that the core Clausewitzean proposition that war tends to extremes no longer applies in contemporary wars. Instead an alternative proposition is put forward that war tends to be long lasting and inconclusive. The article adopts the Clausewitzean method and derives this proposition from the logic of a redefinition of war. It also shows the relevance of many of Clausewitz’s central tenets if reinterpreted. Thus contemporary wars are about politics, not policy; they are instrumental and rational but not reasonable (in the sense of being in accordance with universal values); and they bring together a trinity of motivations (reason, chance and passion) but not a trinity of the state, the generals and the people since new wars are fought by a range of nonstate actors. In particular, international missions in crisis zones should take seriously what Clausewitz says about the importance of political control, the character of the commander and the crucial significance of moral forces.

Policy Implications

 The redefinition of war as organised violence framed in political terms that can be either a mutual enterprise or a contest of wills has profound implications for policy.

 If war is a mutual enterprise rather than a contest of wills, then the international policy must aim to damp down violence rather than support one side or another or even find a compromise between the sides.

 Policy instruments like international law, creating humanitarian space or involving civil society may be just as or more important than political negotiation.

 Morale and leadership are crucial in international missions to crisis zones.
Metabolic effects of plasma expanders
Authors: MULLER LAURENT , LEFRANT JEAN‐YVES
Published: October 2010

All plasma expanders exert metabolic effects – either favorable effects such as correction of hypovolemia‐induced lactic acidosis or renal failure, or unwanted adverse effects such as hypotonic solution‐induced hyponatremia, acid‐base disorders such as hyperchloremic acidosis and effects related to buffers associated with plasma expanders (lactate, acetate). The use of crystalloids alone is associated with a risk of interstitial fluid overload responsible for organ dysfunction in anesthesia and intensive care. The exclusive and prolonged use of high doses of colloids is associated with a risk of severe renal failure. Crystalloids appear to be sufficient to correct tissue hypoperfusion induced by moderate hypovolemia. Alternating prescription of isotonic saline and balanced plasma expanders should be able to avoid the metabolic complications of these two types of crystalloids. Administration of colloids is safe when the recommended maximum doses are observed. When administration of a colloid is indicated, a latest generation hydroxyethyl starch solution appears to present the best benefit/risk ratio.
Rabies Status in Zambia for the Period 1985–2004
Authors: Munang’andu H. M. , Mweene A. S. , Siamudaala V. , Muma J. B. , Matandiko W.
Published: October 2010

Rabies has been present in Zambia since the early years of the 20th century. It is a significant public health problem in Zambia. Domestic dogs accounted for 69.7% (1348/1935) of the samples received for rabies diagnosis for the period 1985–2004. Of the 1069 positive cases confirmed by the fluorescent antibody test, 747 (69.9%) were from domestic dogs, 139 (13.0%) from cattle and 98 (9.2%) from humans. Wildlife samples accounted for 4.5% (87/1935) of the samples tested with the jackal (Canis adustus) being the predominant species. Cases of rabies were highest in Lusaka Province followed by the Copperbelt, Southern and Central Provinces. The monthly distribution of canine rabies showed an average of 2.93 (95% CI 2.59–3.29) dog positive cases per month. The study confirms that rabies is endemic in Zambia and that the domestic dog is the principal maintenance host. The epidemiology and control measures currently used in Zambia are herein discussed highlighting their limitations and successes. Based on the findings obtained from this study we advocate for strengthening the delivery of public health services and that steps must taken to reduce the incidence of rabies in Zambia.
Cardiovascular effects induced byN-(4'-dihydro)-piperoylthiomorpholine in normotensive rats
Authors: Araújo-Júnior João Xavier , Nogueira Ribeiro Êurica Adélia , Manssour Fraga Carlos Alberto , Lima Lídia Moreira , Barreiro Eliezer Jesus , De Medeiros Isac Almeida
Published: October 2010

Objectives

We have tested the cardiovascular effects of N-(4′-dihydro)-piperoylthiomorpholine (LASSBio 365) on rats using an in-vivo and in-vitro approach.

Methods

LASSBio 365 (0.025, 0.05, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5 or 1 mg/kg, randomly injected) was administered to conscious unrestrained rats and the mean arterial pressure and heart rate were measured. The effects of LASSBio 365 (3 × 10−6–3 × 10−4m) on rat isolated aortic rings with and without endothelium were investigated.

Key findings

LASSBio 365 induced a dose-dependent decrease in mean arterial pressure and heart rate (ED50 = 158 ± 53 µg/kg). The effects evoked by LASSBio 365 (0.5 mg/kg) were inhibited by pretreatment with atropine. In anaesthetized rats, electrocardiogram recordings revealed second/third degree sinoatrial and atrioventricular blockade induced by the compound, which were completely inhibited after cardiac muscarinic blockade or cervical bilateral vagotomy. In rat isolated aortic rings, LASSBio 365 (3 × 10−6–3 × 10−4m) was capable of antagonizing the contractile effects induced by phenylephrine (1 µm) or KCl (80 mm) (IC50 = 107 ± 6; 92 ± 6 µm, respectively). This effect was not inhibited after removal of the vascular endothelium (IC50 = 84 ± 4; 92 ± 10 µm, respectively). LASSBio 365 (10−6–10−4m) antagonized CaCl2-induced contractions in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, LASSBio 365 (98 µm) inhibited contractions produced by noradrenaline (1 µm), but not those induced by caffeine (20 mm).

Conclusions

These results suggested that LASSBio 365 produced negative chronotropism and reduced peripheral resistance that were probably due to the stimulation of cardiac muscarinic pathways. Peripheral vasodilation was probably linked to voltage-dependent Ca2+-channel blockade and/or specific inhibition of Ca2+ release from noradrenaline-sensitive intracellular stores.
Molecular docking and QSAR studies of aromatase inhibitor androstenedione derivatives
Authors: Roy Partha Pratim , Roy Kunal
Published: October 2010

Objectives

Aromatase (CYP19) inhibitors have emerged as promising candidates for the treatment of estrogen-dependent breast cancer. In this study, a series of androstenedione derivatives with CYP19 inhibitory activity was subjected to a molecular docking study followed by quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) analyses in search of ideal physicochemical characteristics of potential aromatase inhibitors.

Methods

The QSAR studies were carried out using both two-dimensional (topological, and structural) and three-dimesional (spatial) descriptors. We also used thermodynamic parameters along with 2D and 3D descriptors. Genetic function approximation (GFA) and genetic partial least squares (G/PLS) were used as chemometric tools for QSAR modelling.

Key findings

The docking study indicated that the important interacting amino acids in the active site were Met374, Arg115, Ile133, Ala306, Thr310, Asp309, Val370, Leu477 and Ser478. The 17-keto oxygen of the ligands is responsible for the formation of a hydrogen bond with Met374 and the remaining parts of the molecules are stabilized by the hydrophobic interactions with the non-polar amino acids. The C2 and C19 positions in the ligands are important for maintaining the appropriate orientation of the molecules in the active site. The results of docking experiments and QSAR studies supported each other.

Conclusions

The developed QSAR models indicated the importance of some Jurs parameters, structural parameters, topological branching index and E-state indices of different fragments. All the developed QSAR models were statistically significant according to the internal and external validation parameters.
Amlodipine suppressed cardiac gene expression of brain natriuretic peptide, transforming growth factor-β1 and fibronectin mediated by aldosterone in male stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Harasawa Shinsuke , Otsuka Yuji , Okubo Katsuaki , Koike Miyuki , Fujita Hirotaka , Kushiro Toshio , Nagao Ken , Hirayama Atsushi
Published: October 2010

Objectives

Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker (CCB), is one of the most common antihypertensive medicines in Japan. We evaluated whether the calcium channel blocker confers cardiac protection through the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system in male stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR-SP).

Methods

Fifteen week-old rats were divided into 2 groups: amlodipine group (3 mg/kg/day, n = 5) and control group (n = 5).

Key findings

The CCB lowered systolic blood pressure significantly (P < 0.05). Plasma aldosterone concentration in the amlodipine group was remarkably lower than in the control group (P < 0.05), but plasma renin activity and plasma angiotensin II concentration were not different between the two groups. The CCB also suppressed the mRNA expression of brain natriuretic peptide, transforminggrowth factor-β1, and fibronectin extracted from the left ventricle.

Conclusions

These results suggest that amlodipine attenuates cardiac damage by lowering plasma aldosterone concentration in hypertensive rats with developing arteriosclerosis.
Anti-arthritic and disease modifying activity of Terminalia chebula Retz. in experimental models
Authors: Nair Vinod , Singh Surender , Gupta Yogendra Kumar
Published: October 2010

Objective

This study evaluates the anti-arthritic effect of Terminalia chebula hydroalcoholic extract (TCHE) in experimental models and attempts to correlate the effect of treatment on macrophage-derived pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and extent of disease activity.

Methods

Arthritis was induced in rats by subplantar administration of either formaldehyde or complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). Joint size was measured at regular intervals by using a micrometer screw gauge. Serum and ankle joints of rats immunized with CFA were collected and subjected to ELISA for estimation of TNF-α level and immuno-histochemistry for detection of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-R1, respectively. An acute and 28-day oral toxicity study was carried out to evaluate the safety of the test drug.

Key findings

TCHE produced a significant inhibition of joint swelling as compared with control in both formaldehyde-induced and CFA-induced arthritis. TCHE treatment also reduced serum TNF-α level and synovial expression of TNF-R1, IL-6 and IL-1β. Results of acute toxicity study showed that the oral LD50 of TCHE was >2000 mg/kg. Chronic administration also did not produce any significant physiological changes as compared with normal rats.

Conclusion

Results indicate that the anti-arthritic activity of TCHE was at least in part due to its modulatory effect on pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in the synovium. We believe that TCHE has the potential to be used as a disease-modifying agent in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Cell Crawling Assisted by Contractile Stress Induced Retraction
Authors: Roy Sitikantha , Miao Feng , Qi H. Jerry
Published: October 2010

Cell locomotion is a result of a series of synchronized chemo-mechanical processes. Crawling-type cell locomotion consists of three steps: protrusion, translocation, and retraction. Previous works have shown that both protrusion and retraction can produce cell movement. For the latter, a cell derives its propulsive force from retraction induced protrusion mechanism, which was experimentally verified by Chen (1979, “Induction of Spreading During Fibroblast Movement,” J. Cell Biol., 81, pp. 684–691). In this paper, using finite element method, we take a computational biomimetic approach to study cell crawling assisted by contractile stress induced de-adhesion at the rear of the focal adhesion zone (FAZ). We assume the formation of the FAZ is driven by receptor-ligand bonds and nonspecific interactions. The contractile stress is generated due to the molecular activation of the intracellular actin-myosin machinery. The exerted contractile stress and its time dependency are modeled in a phenomenological manner as a two-spring mechanosensor proposed by Schwarz (2006, “Focal Adhesions as Mechanosensors: The Two-Spring Model,” BioSystems, 83(2–3), pp. 225–232). Through coupling the kinetics of receptor-ligand bonds with contractile stress, de-adhesion can be achieved when the stall value of the contractile stress is larger than a critical one. De-adhesion at the rear end of the FAZ causes a redistribution of elastic energy and induces cell locomotion. Parametric studies were conducted to investigate the connection between the cell locomotion speed and stall stress, and receptor-ligand kinetics. Finally, we provide a scaling relationship that can be used to estimate the cell locomotion speed.
Relationship Between Three-Dimensional Geometry of the Trochlear Groove and In Vivo Patellar Tracking During Weight-Bearing Knee Flexion
Authors: Varadarajan Kartik M. , Freiberg Andrew A. , Gill Thomas J. , Rubash Harry E. , Li Guoan
Published: October 2010

It is widely recognized that the tracking of patella is strongly influenced by the geometry of the trochlear groove. Nonetheless, quantitative baseline data regarding correlation between the three-dimensional geometry of the trochlear groove and patellar tracking under in vivo weight-bearing conditions are not available. A combined magnetic resonance and dual fluoroscopic imaging technique, coupled with multivariate regression analysis, was used to quantify the relationship between trochlear groove geometry (sulcus location, bisector angle, and coronal plane angle) and in vivo patellar tracking (shift, tilt, and rotation) during weight-bearing knee flexion. The results showed that in the transverse plane, patellar shift was strongly correlated (correlation coefficient R=0.86, p<0.001) to mediolateral location of the trochlear sulcus (raw regression coefficient βraw=0.62) and the trochlear bisector angle (βraw=0.31). Similarly, patellar tilt showed a significant association with the trochlear bisector angle (R=0.45, p<0.001, and βraw=0.60). However, in the coronal plane patellar rotation was poorly correlated with its matching geometric parameter, namely, the coronal plane angle of the trochlea (R=0.26, p=0.01, βraw=0.08). The geometry of the trochlear groove in the transverse plane of the femur had significant effect on the transverse plane motion of the patella (patellar shift and tilt) under in vivo weight-bearing conditions. However, patellar rotation in the coronal plane was weakly correlated with the trochlear geometry.
Cryosurgery: Analysis and Experimentation of Cryoprobes in Phase Changing Media
Authors: Shitzer Avraham
Published: October 2010

This article presents a retrospective of work performed at the Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, over the last 3-odd decades. Results of analytical and numerical studies are presented briefly as well as in vitro and in vivo experimental data and their comparison to the derived results. Studies include the analysis of both the direct (Stefan) and the inverse-Stefan phase-change heat transfer problems in a tissue-simulating medium (gel) by the application of both surface and insertion cryoprobes. The effects of blood perfusion and metabolic heat generation rates on the advancement of the freezing front are discussed. The simultaneous operation of needle cryoprobes in a number of different configurations and the effects of a thermally significant blood vessel in the vicinity of the cryoprobe are also presented. Typical results demonstrate that metabolic rate in the yet nonfrozen tissue, will have only minor effects on the advancement of the frozen front. Capillary blood perfusion, on the other hand, does affect the course of change of the temperature distribution, hindering, as it is increased, the advancement of the frozen front. The volumes enclosed by the “lethal” isotherm (assumed as −40°C), achieve most of their final size in the first few minutes of operation, thus obviating the need for prolonged applications. Volumes occupied by this lethal isotherm were shown to be rather small. Thus, after 10 min of operation, these volumes will occupy only about 6% (single probe), 6–11% (two probes, varying distances apart), and 6–15% (three probes, different placement configurations), relative to the total frozen volume. For cryosurgery to become the treatment-of-choice, much more work will be required to cover the following issues: (1) A clear cut understanding and definition of the tissue-specific thermal conditions that are required to ensure the complete destruction of a tissue undergoing a controlled cryosurgical process. (2) Comprehensive analyses of the complete freeze/thaw cycle(s) and it effects on the final outcome. (3) Improved technical means to control the temperature variations of the cryoprobe to achieve the desired thermal conditions required for tissue destruction. (4) Improvement in the pretreatment design process to include optimal placement schemes of multiprobes and their separate and specific operation. (5) Understanding the effects of thermally significant blood vessels, and other related thermal perturbations, which are situated adjacent to, or even within, the tissue volume to be treated.
NCO-Chelated organoantimony(III) and organobismuth(III) dichlorides: Syntheses and structures
Authors: Vrána Jan , Jambor Roman , Růžička Aleš , Holeček Jaroslav , Dostál Libor
Published: October 2010

The novel NCO chelating ligand L, 1-CH2N(CH3)2-3-CH2OCH3-C6H4, was prepared in four steps from commercially available m-tolunitrile in a good yield. Successful lithiation of this ligand was achieved by the reaction with n-BuLi in hexane. Using of this in situ prepared organolithium compound LLi in the reactions with MCl3 (M = Sb, Bi) in 1:1 molar ratio led to isolation of the desired mono-organocompounds MLCl2 (M = Sb (1), Bi (2)). Their structures were studied both in solution (NMR) and in the solid state (X-ray diffraction), and were compared with those of the NCN- and OCO-chelating analogues.
Neuromuscular responses to hydration in moderate to warm ambient conditions during self-paced high-intensity exercise
Authors: Marino F E , Cannon J , Kay D
Published: October 2010

Objective

To examine the neuromuscular responses to 60 minutes of self-paced high-intensity exercise punctuated with 6 × 1-minute “all-out” sprints at 10-minute intervals in moderate (19.8°C, SEM 0.3) and warm (33.2, SEM 0.1), humid (∼64% relative humidity) conditions with either complete hydration (CH) or without hydration (NF).

Design

Seven subjects (mean age 20.6 years (SE 1.1), mass 73.8 kg (SE 4.5), peak power 288 W (SE 11.3)) performed the time trial on four separate occasions, which were differentiated by ambient temperature and fluid ingestion. For each sprint interval, distance, power output and electromyographic (EMG) data from the rectus femoris and vastus lateralis muscles were recorded.

Results

The NF trials resulted in a reduction in body mass for the moderate and warm conditions of 1.7% and 2.1%, respectively. Final rectal temperatures were not different among conditions (∼38.7°C). Total body sweating was higher in the warm condition (19.1–21.3 ml/kg per hour) compared with the moderate condition (16.1–16.5 ml/kg per hour; p<0.05). Neither fluid ingestion nor ambient temperature altered total distance cycled for any of the trials (range 30.1–32.6 km). The normalised integrated EMG (as percentage of maximal voluntary contraction) when compared with the first sprint increased from sprint three for the rectus femoris muscle in both no and complete hydration but decreased for the vastus lateralis muscle. The mean percentile frequency shift increased for both the vastus lateralis and rectus femoris muscles in both no and complete hydration.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the integrity of the neuromuscular system is adjusted according to hydration status and ambient temperatures during intense self-paced cycling.
Occupation and risk of lymphoma: a multicentre prospective cohort study (EPIC)
Authors: Neasham David , Sifi Ahlem , Nielsen Kaspar Rene , Overvad Kim , Raaschou-Nielsen Ole , Tjønneland Anne , Barricarte Aurelio , González Carlos A , Navarro Carmen , Rodriguez Suarez Laudina , Travis Ruth C , Key Tim , Linseisen Jakob , Kaaks Rudolf , Crosignani Paolo , Berrino Franco , Rosso Stefano , Mattiello Amalia , Vermeulen R C H , Bueno-de-Mesquita H Bas , Berglund Göran , Manjer Jonas , Zackrisson Sophia , Hallmans Goran , Malmer Beatrice , Bingham Sheila , Khaw Kay Tee , Bergmann Manuela M , Boeing Heiner , Trichopoulou Antonia , Masala Giovanna , Tumino Rosario , Lund Eiliv , Slimani Nadia , Ferrari Pietro , Boffetta Paolo , Vineis Paolo , Riboli Elio
Published: October 2010

Objectives

Evidence suggests that certain occupations and related exposures may increase the risk of malignant lymphoma. Farming, printing and paper industry, wood processing, meat handling and processing, welding, shoe and leather manufacturing and teaching profession are among the categories that have been implicated in previous studies. The relationship between occupation and malignant lymphoma has been investigated in a large European prospective study.

Methods

We investigated occupational risks for lymphomas in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC). The mean follow-up time for 348 555 subjects was 9 years (SD: 2 years). The analysis was based on 866 and 48 newly diagnosed cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL). These were identified in the EPIC subcohorts with occupational data. Data on 52 occupations were collected through standardised questionnaires. Cox proportional hazard models were used to explore the association between occupation and risk of malignant lymphoma.

Results

The following occupations were positively associated with malignant NHL after adjustment for study centre, age, sex, socioeconomic status (SES), smoking and alcohol: butchers (HR=1.53, 95% CI 1.05 to 2.48, including multiple myeloma/plasmacytoma; HR=1.30, 95% CI 1.00 to 2.66, excluding multiple myeloma/plasmacytoma) and car repair workers (HR=1.50, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.00, including multiple myeloma/plasmacytoma; HR=1.51, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.31, excluding multiple myeloma/plasmacytoma). HL was associated with gasoline station occupation (HR=4.59, 95% CI 1.08 to 19.6).

Conclusion

The findings in this current study of a higher risk of NHL among car repair workers and butchers and a higher risk of HL among gasoline station workers suggest a possible role from occupationally related exposures, such as solvents and zoonotic viruses, as risk factors for malignant lymphoma.
Switching to Daylight Saving Time and work injuries in Ontario, Canada: 1993–2007
Authors: Morassaei Sara , Smith Peter M
Published: October 2010

Objective

To examine whether switching to and from Daylight Saving Time (DST)—1 h shift forward in the spring and 1 h shift back in the autumn—is associated with an increase in work injuries.

Method

Data on work-related injuries were obtained from compensation claim records from the Ontario Workplace Safety & Insurance Board for the period 1993–2007. A Poisson regression model was run separately comparing the number of no lost time claims and lost time claims during the week of DST change with the week following DST change, and the week preceding DST change. We also examined if differences in the relationship between DST and work injury claims were present across industry, age, gender and job tenure groups.

Results

The results of our regression model did not show an increase in the incidence of work injury claims in the days immediately following the spring shift to DST. There was a significant decrease in the number of claims on Thursday, Friday and Saturday following the spring transition to DST. However, this decline was solely due to the years when Good Friday occurred during DST week (1993, 1998 and 2004) when fewer people are at work. For the autumn transition from DST, no evidence was found that the gain of 1 h sleep results in a decrease or increase in work injury claims.

Conclusion

Our findings show that the shift to and from DST had no detrimental effects on the incidence of claims for work injuries in Ontario, Canada.
Drought stress ecophysiology of shrub and grass functional groups on opposing slope aspects of a temperate grassland valley
Authors: Letts Matthew G. , Johnson Davin R.E. , Coburn Craig A.
Published: October 2010

Plant functional groups with contrasting growth strategies co-occur in semiarid ecosystems. In the northern Great Plains, woody shrubs and grasses interact competitively, with shrubs prevalent on mesic hillslopes. To understand topographic influences on physiological drought acclimation, we measured seasonal photosynthetic water use in C3 shrubs ( Artemisia cana Pursh and Rhus trilobata Nutt.) and grasses ( Agropyron cristatum (L.) Gaertn. and Stipa viridula Trin.) on north- and south-facing slopes. Relationships between abiotic controls and photosynthesis were similar on both aspects, indicating an absence of long-term photosynthetic acclimation to xeric, south-facing conditions. Acclimatory differences were observed between functional groups. Soil moisture depletion lowered intercellular:atmospheric CO2 ratio (Ci/Ca) and increased intrinsic water-use efficiency (WUEi = Amax/gs) in shrubs, but not grasses. Consequently, between-slope differences in net photosynthesis (Amax) and stomatal conductance (gs) occurred only in shrubs, with lower values on the south-facing slope. Shrubs also exhibited between-slope differences in the photochemical reflectance index, suggesting drought-related photoprotection. The deuterium:hydrogen ratios of stem water showed that deep water use facilitated late summer growth in shrubs. Consistent with plant distribution, cumulative water use and photosynthesis were higher in shrubs than in grasses on the north-facing slope, but higher in grasses than in shrubs on the south-facing slope. This shows that topographic effects on leaf photosynthetic gas exchange are mediated by physiological acclimation strategy and water source use.
Évaluation de la tolérance à la salinité du myrte (Myrtus communis) aux stades germinatif et plantule
Authors: Lamia Hamrouni , Mohsen Hanana , Larbi Khouja Mohamed
Published: October 2010

The salinity tolerance and development of diverse myrtle ecotypes were evaluated in relation to salinity, at the germination and plantlet stages. Six myrtle ecotypes (Tébaba, Jbel Abderahmane, Diar Ferjan, Ain Bacouche, Ain Dhebla, and Ouchetata) were used to conduct germination tests, as well as cultivation to the plantlet stage. Disinfected seeds were germinated in a controlled growth chamber (RH, 80%; temperature, 25 °C) using different saline treatments (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 g·L–1 NaCl. Seedlings were cultivated in a greenhouse, in boxes filled with perlite. The seedlings were given Knop’s nutrient solution, up to the four-leaf stage. Thereafter, the saline stress treatments were applied as increasing concentrations of NaCl added to the Knop solution. The effects of salinity on germination varied with ecotype and concentration of NaCl. A progressive decrease in the rate of germination for myrtle was observed with increasing concentration of NaCl. Moreover, germination was delayed by salinity, especially with susceptible ecotypes. Ecotypes from Ouchetata and Diar Ferjan germinated better in presence of salt than did the Jbel Abderahmane ecotype. The growth of myrtle plantlets cultivated under salt stress was also variable according to ecotype and salt concentrations. Growth of aerial, as well as root parts, was reduced by NaCl concentrations higher than 6 g·L–1. The number of leaves was also affected by salinity; a reduction of five leaves was observed for most ecotypes when increasing NaCl from 0 to 12 g·L–1. It is concluded that development of myrtle under saline stress differs according to the development stage (germination, plantlet), and that the ecotypes tested can germinate and grow in the presence of 12 g·L–1 NaCl. This salt tolerance, observed at early stages, remains to be confirmed for the adult plants. This work was conducted as an essential preliminary step in preparing to cultivate myrtle in saline soils or soils irrigated with salt water, for prospective commercial exploitation of the essential oils of this species.
Flow permanence affects aquatic macroinvertebrate diversity and community structure in three headwater streams in a forested catchment
Authors: Clarke Amber , Mac Nally Ralph , Bond Nick , Lake P.S.
Published: October 2010

Drying can be a common disturbance affecting macroinvertebrate communities in headwater streams. Whether intermittent and ephemeral streams have a lower diversity and (or) unique assemblage structure relative to physically similar and nearby perennial streams is still debated. We investigated changes in the diversity and assemblage composition of aquatic macroinvertebrates occupying debris dams in three headwater streams with a gradient of flow permanence (perennial, intermittent, and ephemeral) during a dry period in the austral summer of 2007 and a wet period in the spring of 2008. In the dry period, mean taxon richness and abundance in debris dams were lower in the intermittent and ephemeral streams than in the perennial stream, and the length of time without connected surface flow appeared to produce different patterns in community composition. However, during the wet period, mean taxon richness, abundance, and community composition of macroinvertebrates were very similar among the three streams. Hierarchical Bayesian modeling showed evidence for a strong effect of permanence on taxon richness, abundance, and evenness within debris dams. Taxa from the perennial stream were extremely efficient at colonizing seasonally dry nearby streams. Differences in assemblage structure between these temporary and permanent headwater streams may only arise seasonally and also appear related to flow permanence.
Sequence characterization and phylogenetic analysis of the 5S ribosomal DNA in species of the family Batrachoididae
Authors: Úbeda-Manzanaro María , Merlo Manuel Alejandro , Palazón José Luis , Sarasquete Carmen , Rebordinos Laureana
Published: October 2010

5S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences were analyzed in four species belonging to different genera of the fish family Batrachoididae. Several 5S rDNA variants differing in their non-transcribed spacers (NTSs) were found and were grouped into two main types. Two species showed both types of 5S rDNA, whereas the other two species showed only one type. One type of NTS of Amphichthys cryptocentrus showed a high polymorphism due to several deletions and insertions, and phylogenetic analysis showed a between-species clustering of this type of NTS in Amphichthys cryptocentrus. These results suggest a clear differentiation in the model of 5S rDNA evolution of these four species of Batrachoididae, which appear to have been subject to processes of concerted evolution and birth-and-death evolution with purifying selection.
Fiber pullout model for aligned hooked-end steel fiber
Authors: Ghoddousi P. , Ahmadi R. , Sharifi M.
Published: October 2010

The main objective of this study is to derive an analytical model for the pullout behavior of hooked-end steel fiber. The pullout behavior of hooked-end steel fiber comprises a component due to interfacial bond stress at the fiber–matrix interface and a component due to mechanical anchorage at the hook end of the fiber. To study the first component, the effects of hooks on the distributions of the force and stresses along the fiber length are analyzed. Then these results are used, with the concept of bond shear stress versus slip relation between fiber and matrix, to obtain a force component due to the interfacial bond. After that the required theoretical relations are obtained to determine the component due to the mechanical anchorages. Finally, the model is validated with two existing experimental results on the hooked-end steel fiber pullout. The results show that the proposed model is able to estimate the pullout behavior of hooked-end steel fiber.
Study of the Raman spectra of phonons in disordered GaSb/AlSb (001) superlattices
Authors: Berdekas D.
Published: October 2010

In the present work, we study the influence of disorder in the Raman spectra of the phonons of (GaSb)n/(AlSb)n (001) superlattices (SLs), for n = 1, 2. Τhe disordered superlattices are approximated with primitive cells that are much larger than the primitive cells of the corresponding perfect SLs. We propose that disorder appears because of deviations from the sequence of the GaSb and AlSb layers, which is imposed by symmetry, or because of intermixing of Ga and Al in the cation lattice planes. The dynamical matrix of each SL is constructed from the combination of the dynamical matrices of the bulk crystalline constituents, which have been calculated at certain points of the Brillouin zone with a ten-parameter valence overlap shell model. Further, we have calculated the Raman spectra of the disordered 1 × 1 and 2 × 2 superlattices grown along the (001) direction, using an eight-parameter bond polarizability model, away from resonance conditions. Our results show that intermixing of Ga and Al cations produce Raman activity that is not present in the phonon spectra of perfect superlattices.
A quantum mechanical approach to the polarization transport of photons
Authors: Torabi Reza
Published: October 2010

Based on a quantum mechanical approach, the polarization transport of photons that propagate in a medium with slowly varying refractive index is studied. The photon polarizations are separated in opposite directions normal to the ray, which is called “spin Hall effect” of photons. Also, the rotation of the polarization plane occurs, a manifestation of the Berry phase. This approach can be generalized to other spinning particles in inhomogeneous media as a universal method.
Evaluation of the effect of rolling correction of double-o-tunnel shields via one-side loading
Authors: Shen Shui-Long , Du Yan-Jun , Luo Chun-Yong
Published: October 2010

During construction of a double-o-tunnel (DOT), rolling will inevitably occur due to the following: (i) nonuniformity of subsoil condition, (ii) manufacturing errors in the DOT shield machine, (iii) different pulling forces at two sides of the DOT, (iv) effect of assembled segments, (v) loss of grout, and (vi) inappropriate operation. In engineering practice, rolling correction using a one-side load at the elevated side is a cost-effective method. The weight of the one-side load is determined by the experience of the engineers and (or) through observation of the returned rolling angle. However, these methods cannot predict the value of the one-side load before applying it. This paper presents a series of finite element analyses that was performed to investigate the relationship among the one-side load, rolling angle, and subsoil deformation. The analytical results show that the proposed approach can predict field-observed data well. It is concluded that analytical results can be used as guidance for DOT construction.
Prediction of end-bearing capacity of rock-socketed shafts considering rock quality designation (RQD)
Authors: Zhang Lianyang
Published: October 2010

Existing empirical methods for determining the end-bearing capacity, qmax, use empirical relations between qmax and the unconfined compressive strength of intact rock, σc. As rock-socketed shafts are supported by the rock mass, not just the intact rock, one should consider not only the intact rock properties, but also the influence of discontinuities on rock mass properties when determining qmax. Although semi-empirical and analytical methods have been developed that can consider the effect of discontinuities, they are more complicated than the empirical relations and require information about discontinuities that is often not available or difficult to obtain in engineering practice. In this paper, an empirical relation between qmax and the unconfined compressive strength of rock mass, σcm, is developed. The new empirical relation explicitly considers the effect of discontinuities represented by rock quality designation (RQD), which is the parameter normally obtained in engineering practice. The accuracy of the expression for estimating σcm based on RQD is verified by comparing its estimation values with those from the existing empirical expressions based on rock mass classification. Two examples are presented to show the application of the newly developed empirical relation between qmax and σcm.
FTIR spectroscopic discrimination ofSaccharomyces cerevisiaeandSaccharomyces bayanusstrains
Authors: Adt Isabelle , Kohler Achim , Gognies Sabine , Budin Julien , Sandt Christophe , Belarbi Abdelkader , Manfait Michel , Sockalingum Ganesh D.
Published: October 2010

In this study, we tested the potential of Fourier-transform infrared absorption spectroscopy to screen, on the one hand, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and non-S. cerevisiae strains and, on the other hand, to discriminate between S. cerevisiae and Saccharomyces bayanus strains. Principal components analysis (PCA), used to compare 20 S. cerevisiae and 21 non-Saccharomyces strains, showed only 2 misclassifications. The PCA model was then used to classify spectra from 14 Samos strains. All 14 Samos strains clustered together with the S. cerevisiae group. This result was confirmed by a routinely used electrophoretic pattern obtained by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. The method was then tested to compare S. cerevisiae and S. bayanus strains. Our results indicate that identification at the strain level is possible. This first result shows that yeast classification and S. bayanus identification can be feasible in a single measurement.
Hyperosmolarity alters micturition: a comparison of urinary bladder motor activity in hyperosmolar and cyclophosphamide-induced models of overactive bladder
Authors: Juszczak Kajetan , Ziomber Agata , Wyczółkowski Marek , Thor Piotr J.
Published: October 2010

Hyperosmolar factors induce the neurogenic inflammatory response, leading to bladder overactivity (OAB). The aim of the study was to compare the bladder motor activity in a hyperosmolar and acute cyclophosphamide (CYP)-induced model of OAB. Furthermore, we set our sights on defining the most physiological model of OAB in experimental practice. Forty-two female rats were divided randomly into 5 groups. All animals underwent cystometry with the usage of isotonic saline or saline of increasing concentration. Acute chemical cystitis was induced by CYP to elicit OAB. The following cystometric parameters were analyzed: basal pressure, threshold pressure, micturition voiding pressure, intercontraction interval, compliance, functional bladder capacity, motility index, and detrusor overactivity index. CYP and hypertonic saline solutions induced OAB. Having been compared with CYP OAB, none of the rats infused with hypertonic solution exhibited macroscopic signs of bladder inflammation. The comparison of CYP and hyperosmolar models of OAB revealed that the greatest similarity existed between the 2080 mOsm/L OAB model and the acute CYP-induced model. We postulate that the 2080 mOsm/L model of OAB can be established as being a less invasive and more physiological model when compared with the CYP-induced OAB model. Additionally, it may also be a more reliable experimental tool for evaluating novel therapeutics for OAB as compared with CYP-induced models.
Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope discrimination factors from diet to blood plasma, cellular blood, feathers, and adipose tissue fatty acids in Spectacled Eiders (Somateria fischeri)
Authors: Federer R. N. , Hollmén T. E. , Esler D. , Wooller M. J. , Wang S. W.
Published: October 2010

Stable isotope analyses of animal tissues can be used to infer diet through application of mixing models. An important component in a mixing model is the incorporation of stable isotope discrimination factors so that isotopic shifts between diet and tissues built from the diet can be accounted for when comparing tissues to potential food sources. We determined the stable carbon and nitrogen isotopic discrimination factors between lipid-free diet and blood plasma, cellular blood, and adult chest contour feathers for captive female Spectacled Eiders ( Somateria fischeri (Brandt, 1847)). Mean discrimination factors for blood components and feathers were either similar or slightly larger compared with previously studied species. Additionally, we determined the stable carbon isotope discrimination factors between dietary lipids and adipose tissue fatty acids using three adipose tissue biopsies from captive male Spectacled Eiders that were fed three different diet treatments. Isotopic signatures of adipose tissue fatty acids closely reflected shifts in the diet and were either similar to or increased relative to diet. Our study provides a foundation for research using tissues as end-members in stable isotope nutrient allocation models and foraging ecology studies of Spectacled Eiders, and will provide the most applicable isotope data to date for sea ducks.
CONTRACTOR RENORMALIZATION GROUP THEORY OF THE EVEN-LEG SPIN TORI
Authors: CHEN QIHUI , LI PENG
Published: October 2010

The contractor renormalization (CORE) group method is applied to the even-leg spin tori to reveal their ground-state energies and the lowest excitation gaps. The spin tori are referred to the spin ladders that are closed along the rung direction. We designed an improved iterative CORE algorithm and applied it to the even-leg tori. The improvement is made by introducing an extrapolation based on a sequence of hierarchical data that is obtained by varying the size of the elementary block. Quite good results are obtained and compared with the ones by other methods.
EXISTENCE OF PULLBACK ATTRACTOR FOR A REACTION–DIFFUSION EQUATION IN SOME UNBOUNDED DOMAINS WITH NON-AUTONOMOUS FORCING TERM IN H-1
Authors: ANGUIANO MARÍA , CARABALLO TOMÁS , REAL JOSÉ
Published: October 2010

The existence of a pullback attractor in L2(Ω) for the following non-autonomous reaction–diffusion equation [Formula: see text] is proved in this paper, when the domain Ω is not necessarily bounded but satisfying the Poincaré inequality, and [Formula: see text]. The main concept used in the proof is the asymptotic compactness of the process generated by the problem.
DYNAMICS OF MODIFIED PREDATOR-PREY MODELS
Authors: KLOEDEN P. E. , PÖTZSCHE C.
Published: October 2010

Besides being structurally unstable, the Lotka–Volterra predator-prey model has another shortcoming due to the invalidity of the principle of mass action when the populations are very small. This leads to extremely large populations recovering from unrealistically small ones. The effects of linear modifications to structurally unstable continuous-time predator-prey models in a (small) neighbourhood of the origin are investigated here. In particular, it is shown that typically either a global attractor or repeller arises depending on the choice of coefficients.

The analysis is based on Poincaré mappings, which allow an explicit representation for the classical Lotka–Volterra equations.
NONCOERCIVE EVOLUTION INCLUSIONS FOR SkTYPE OPERATORS
Authors: ZGUROVSKY M. Z. , KASYANOV P. O. , VALERO J.
Published: October 2010

For a large class of noncoercive operator inclusions, including those generated by maps of Sktype, we obtain a general theorem on the existence of solutions. We apply this result to a particular example. This theorem is proved using the method of Faedo–Galerkin approximations.
USING PERMUTATIONS TO FIND STRUCTURAL CHANGES IN TIME SERIES
Authors: CÁNOVAS J. S. , GUILLAMÓN A. , RUIZ M. C.
Published: October 2010

The number of permutations appearing in data series is used for detecting changes in the structure of such series. We show the influence of the permutations length (embedding dimension) in order to get good results. We use permutations to analyze real data from medical and biological origins. Some problems that appear in applying these techniques are pointed out.
Linear logic
Authors: Wright Alex
Published: October 2010

A novel approach to computational logic is reaching maturity, opening up opening up new vistas in programming languages, proof nets, and security applications.
Platforms and services
Authors: Cusumano Michael A.
Published: October 2010

Combining new consumer devices and Internet platforms with online services and content is proving to be a successful strategy.
Risks of undisciplined development
Authors: Parnas David L.
Published: October 2010

An illustration of the problems caused by a lack of discipline in software development and our failure to apply what is known in the field.
Tackling architectural complexity with modeling
Authors: Montagne Kevin
Published: October 2010

Component models can help diagnose architectural problems in both new and existing systems.