bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The sea lamprey UNC5 receptors: cDNA cloning, phylogenetic analysis and expression in reticulospinal neurons at larval and adult stages of development
Authors: Barreiro‐Iglesias Antón , Laramore Cindy , Shifman Michael I.
Published: May 2012

UNC5 receptors mediate repulsive signaling of netrin on neurons. Although only one UNC5 receptor has been identified in invertebrates, four members of the UNC5 family have been identified in gnathostomes. Lampreys, together with mixynes, belong to the oldest branch of extant vertebrates, and their phylogenetic position near to the vertebrate root makes them an interesting model for understanding molecular evolution. Here, we cloned three sea lamprey UNC5 (UNC5L) receptors, and phylogenetic analyses indicated that the first two duplications of the ancestral UNC5 gene occurred before the separation of jawless and jawed vertebrates. UNC5 receptors play important roles during early development, but expression studies have also suggested that UNC5 receptors play roles in the mature nervous system. Here, we report the expression of the different UNC5L receptor transcripts in identified reticulospinal neurons of mature larval or adult sea lampreys detected by in situ hybridization in wholemounted brain preparations. In addition, an extensive expression of the UNC5 receptors was also observed in most brain regions of the adult lamprey. An increase in the types of identifiable reticulospinal neurons expressing the UNC5L receptors was observed in adults compared with larvae. Expression of UNC5 receptors at late developmental stages appears to be a shared characteristic of lampreys and mammals. In larvae, expression of UNC5L receptors was observed in reticulospinal neurons that when axotomized are known to be “bad regenerators.” Results in lampreys and mammals suggest that the UNC5‐Netrin axonal guidance system may play a role in limiting axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:4141–4156, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gossip learning with linear models on fully distributed data
Authors: Ormándi Róbert , Hegedűs István , Jelasity Márk
Published: May 2012

Machine learning over fully distributed data poses an important problem in peer‐to‐peer applications. In this model, we have one data record at each network node but without the possibility to move raw data because of privacy considerations. For example, user profiles, ratings, history, or sensor readings can represent this case. This problem is difficult because there is no possibility to learn local models; the system model offers almost no guarantee for reliability, yet the communication cost needs to be kept low. Here, we propose gossip learning, a generic approach that is based on multiple models taking random walks over the network in parallel, while applying an online learning algorithm to improve themselves, and getting combined via ensemble learning methods. We present an instantiation of this approach for the case of classification with linear models. Our main contribution is an ensemble learning method, which—through the continuous combination of the models in the network—implements a virtual weighted voting mechanism over an exponential number of models at practically no extra cost as compared with independent random walks. We prove the convergence of the method theoretically, and perform extensive experiments on benchmark data sets. Our experimental analysis demonstrates the performance and robustness of the proposed approach. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cell surface turnover of the glutamate transporter GLT‐1 is mediated by ubiquitination/deubiquitination
Authors: Martínez‐Villarreal Jaime , García Tardón Noemí , Ibáñez Ignacio , Giménez Cecilio , Zafra Francisco
Published: May 2012

The main glutamate transporter in the brain, GLT‐1, mediates glutamatergic neurotransmission in both physiological and pathological conditions. GLT‐1 activity is controlled by both constitutive and regulated trafficking, and although recent evidence indicates that the turnover of this protein in the plasma membrane is accelerated by protein kinase C via an ubiquitin‐dependent process, the mechanisms driving the constitutive trafficking of GLT‐1 remain unexplored. Here, we used a heterologous system and primary astrocytes to investigate the turnover of GLT‐1 and the role of ubiquitin attachment in this process. We show that GLT‐1 is endocytosed constitutively in a clathrin‐dependent manner, recycling the transporter into endosomes containing EEA1 and Rab4, a marker of rapidly recycling endosomes, and not Rab11 or Rab7, markers of the slow recycling and late endosomal compartments, respectively. We also show that this process is dependent on ubiquitination, because the inhibitor of the ubiquitin‐activating enzyme E1, 4[4‐(5‐nitro‐furan‐2‐ylmethylene)‐3,5‐dioxo‐pyrazolidin‐1‐yl]‐benzoic acid ethyl ester, promotes the retention of GLT‐1 at the plasma membrane. Moreover, site‐directed mutagenesis demonstrated the involvement of lysines 517 and 526 of GLT‐1 in the constitutive internalization of the transporter. The translocation of GLT‐1 from the recycling endosomes to the plasma membrane was blocked by LDN‐57444, a specific inhibitor to the deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) ubiquitin C‐terminal hydrolase‐L1, but not by an inhibitor of the related DUB ubiquitin C‐terminal hydrolase‐L3, supporting the existence of specific ubiquitination/deubiquitination cycles that ensure the correct concentrations of GLT‐1 at the cell surface. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessment of the snow conditions in the major watersheds of Afghanistan using multispectral and passive microwave remote sensing
Authors: Daly Steven F. , Vuyovich Carrie M. , Deeb Elias J. , Newman Stephen D. , Baldwin Timothy B. , Gagnon John J.
Published: May 2012

Since the winter season of 2004–2005, annual snow assessments have been conducted for the major watersheds of Afghanistan using multispectral (AVHRR and MODIS) and passive microwave (SSM/I and AMSR‐E) remote sensing technologies. Because of limited ground‐based observations of precipitation and snow pack conditions, remote sensing provides a unique opportunity to assess these conditions at different scales offering an appraisal of current conditions from a historical context. This paper describes the methodology that has been developed over the past seven winter seasons, wherein bi‐weekly snow products and assessments are produced including the following: current snow‐covered area (SCA) at regional and watershed scales; estimation of SCA by elevation band; current snowpack volume [snow water equivalent (SWE)] for each watershed with a historical perspective (1987–present); snow condition outlook by watershed; general summary of snow conditions based on remote sensing products and limited ground‐based observations; and if warranted, a snow melt flooding advisory. Further analysis of these snow products and assessments are presented. Moreover, comparisons between both available passive microwave estimates of SWE (SSM/I and AMSR‐E) for all watersheds differ in magnitude yet exhibit similar historical trends. The SSM/I versus AMSR‐E historical differences in SWE for each of the major Afghanistan watersheds are quantified and show a strong relationship (R2 = 96%) to the mean elevation of the watershed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Soil colour as a tracer of sediment dispersion from erosion of forest roads in Chichester State Forest, NSW, Australia
Authors: Erskine Wayne D.
Published: May 2012

A rainstorm on 27–28 May 2003 caused a debris slide in the fill batter of a recently constructed road crossing of a zero‐order stream in Compartment 107, Chichester State Forest, Australia. The slide became more liquid downslope, changing to a debris flow. This flow completely blocked the inlet of the next downstream road crossing of the same stream, where it had changed to first order. Gullying of the downstream fill batter at the second crossing was caused by water flowing over the road. The estimated volume of sediment removed by the upslope debris slide was 350 m3, and the estimated erosion volume by gullying of the downstream fill batter at the second crossing was 100 m3. Mass movements have occurred in Compartment 107 before any forestry activities because of the presence of colluvium‐filled bedrock depressions. Furthermore, the channel downstream of the second crossing has transported much larger quantities of coarser sediment than what was mobilized during and after the event of 27–28 May 2003. Channel bank exposures reveal up to 2.5‐m‐thick, poorly sorted gravels, which, on the basis of soil development in the overlying deposits, appear to be older than 200 years. Sediment was deposited in the channel downstream of the second crossing, as determined using Munsell Soil Colour as a fingerprinting technique. The volumes involved were relatively minor and were only deposited in slackwater areas as spatially disjunct, relatively thin patches. Sediment was restricted to the first 500 m downstream of the second crossing and was unlikely to have reached the main stream, Allyn River, in any measurable quantity. The channel downstream of the second road crossing is a high‐energy feature because it contains a range of channel units (waterfalls, bedrock, boulder and log steps, cascades, etc.) formed by erosion of resistant materials. Similar and larger events to that of 27–28 May 2003 in the following 13 months did not cause further road erosion, indicating that the installed rehabilitation measures stabilized the road. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interaction between regulatory T cells and cancer stem cells
Authors: Yu Xiaozhou , Li Hui , Ren Xiubao
Published: May 2012

The concept that cancer stem cells (CSCs)/tumor stem cells/cancer‐initiating cells are one of the key centers to cure neoplastic disease has drawn an increasing attention recent years. Because of their high resistance and potential to initiate tumors, CSCs are considered a critical factor associated with tumor relapse. Regulatory T (Treg) cells, a group of immune cells with tumor‐promoting effect, exert their function through inhibition of effector T cells and regulation of the tumor microenvironment by producing a series of soluble factors. However, the interactions between Tregs and CSCs are less understood. The mechanisms of how Tregs, as tumor‐promoting cells, manipulate CSCs remain obscure. In this review, we elucidate their interactions.
UNEMPLOYMENT, HUMAN CAPITAL DEPRECIATION, AND UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE POLICY
Authors: Pollak Andreas
Published: May 2012

This paper presents a structural estimation of a life cycle model with unemployment risk. The model allows for human capital depreciation during unemployment. It is estimated using German and US household‐level data. The data suggest that the adverse impact of unemployment on individual productivity is important in both countries, but quantitatively more relevant in Germany. Moreover, simulations show that the combination of skill depreciation with the generous unemployment insurance system that was in place in Germany until recently is a key factor in explaining the differences in labour market performance between these countries. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Turyn‐Type Sequences: Classification, Enumeration, and Construction
Authors: Best D. , Ðoković D. Ž. , Kharaghani H. , Ramp H.
Published: May 2012

Turyn‐type sequences, , are quadruples of ‐sequences , with lengths , respectively, where the sum of the nonperiodic autocorrelation functions of and twice that of is a δ‐function (i.e., vanishes everywhere except at 0). Turyn‐type sequences are known to exist for all even n not larger than 36. We introduce a definition of equivalence to construct a canonical form for in general. By using this canonical form, we enumerate the equivalence classes of for . We also construct the first example of Turyn‐type sequences .
O‐carboxymethyl chitosan entrapped by silica: preparation and adsorption behaviour toward neodymium (III) ions
Authors: Wang Fuchun , Zhao Junmei , Zhou Huacong , Li Wensong , Sui Na , Liu Huizhou
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND: The recovery of neodymium from dilute solutions has become important because of its wide application in industry. This work reports the preparation of novel carboxymethyl chitosan adsorbents entrapped by silica (SiO2/CMCH) and their application for adsorption of neodymium(III) ions from aqueous solution.

RESULTS: The effect of the CMCH content, equilibrium pH (pHe), contact time, initial concentrations of Nd(III) and temperature on the adsorption was investigated. The amount of Nd(III) adsorption increases with increasing pHe, which can be explained by the pH‐titration curve of CMCH. Temperature has a positive effect on Nd(III) adsorption, and the amount adsorbed is 53.04 mg g−1 dry adsorbent or 434.75 mg g−1 CMCH at 328 K. Adsorption kinetics and isotherm can be described by the pseudo‐second‐order model and Langmuir equation. Both complexation and ion exchange mechanisms are believed to play an important role in Nd(III) adsorption, and possible coordination between CMCH and Nd(III) is speculated. Complete desorption can be reached when the concentration of HCl is more than 0.1 mol L−1.

CONCLUSION: A novel method was developed to prepare SiO2/CMCH adsorbents through a one‐step sol‐gel strategy. The prepared adsorbents were biocompatible and non‐toxic with a good adsorption ability for Nd(III), and could be used for adsorptive recovery of Nd(III) from aqueous solutions. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
A Novel Lenticular Arena to Quantify Locomotor Competence in Walking Fruit Flies
Authors: TOM MEKDARA NALONG , GOTO JOY JUNE , CHOUDHURY SONGITA , JERRY MEKDARA PRASONG , YINGST NICHOLAS , CAO YU , BERG OTTO , KATHARINA MÜLLER ULRIKE
Published: May 2012

Drosophila melanogaster has become an important invertebrate model organism in biological and medical research, for mutational and genetic analysis, and in toxicological screening. Many screening assays have been developed that assess the flies’ mortality, reproduction, development, morphology, or behavioral competence. In this study, we describe a new assay for locomotor competence. It comprises a circular walking arena with a lenticular floor and a flat cover (the slope of the floor increases gradually from the center to the edge of the arena) plus automated fly tracking and statistical analysis. This simple modification of a flat arena presents a graduated physical challenge, with which we can assess fine gradations of motor ability, since a fly's time average radial distance from the arena center is a direct indicator of its climbing ability. The time averaged distribution of flies as a function of slope, activity levels, and walking speed, yields a fine grained picture of locomotory ability and motivation levels. We demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses of this assay (compared with a conventional tap‐down test) by observing flies treated with a neurotoxin (BMAA) that acts as a glutamate agonist. The assay proves well suited to detect dose effects and progression effects with higher statistical power than the traditional tap‐down, but it has a higher detection limit, making it less sensitive to treatment effects. J. Exp. Zool. 317A:382–394, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
First μ‐CT‐based 3D reconstruction of a dipteran larva—the head morphology of protanyderus (tanyderidae) and its phylogenetic implications
Authors: Wipfler Benjamin , Courtney Greg W. , Craig, Douglas A. , Beutel Rolf G.
Published: May 2012

The larval head of Protanyderus was examined and documented using innovative techniques, with emphasis on internal structures. A chart listing all head muscles of dipteran larvae and other holometabolan groups is presented in the Supporting Information. The results are compared to conditions found in other nematoceran lineages. The larval head of Protanyderus is characterized mainly by plesiomorphic character states such as the complete and largely exposed head capsule, the long coronal suture, V‐shaped frontal sutures, lateral antennal insertion areas, a transverse labrum, a nearly horizontal plane of mandibular movements, mandibles lacking a movable distal part, a mesal hook and mesal or distal combs, separated maxillary endite lobes, a comparatively complete array of muscles, and a brain only partly located within the head capsule. An anteriorly toothed hypostomal plate and dense labral brushes of microtrichiae are also likely groundplan features of Diptera. The pharyngeal filter is a possible apomorphy of Diptera excl. Deuterophlebiidae (or Deuterophlebiidae + Nymphomyiidae). The messors have also likely evolved early in the dipteran crown group but are absent in the groundplan. The phylogenetic interpretation of externolateral plates with growth lines is ambiguous. Autapomorphies of Tanyderidae are differences between the third and fourth instar larvae, the roof‐like extension above the antennal insertion area, the dorsal endocarina, and the posterodorsal internal ridge. The phylogenetic position of Tanyderidae is controversial, but features of the larval head do not support a proposed sistergroup relationship between Tanyderidae and Psychodidae. Both groups differ in many features of the larval head, and we did not identify a single potential synapomorphy. Larval characters alone are insufficient for a reliable phylogenetic reconstruction, though they vary greatly and apparently contain phylogenetic information. The evaluation of these features in the context of robust molecular phylogenies will be a sound basis for the reconstruction of complex evolutionary scenarios for the megadiverse Diptera. Diptera. J. Morphol. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variability of temperature in the Tibetan Plateau based on homogenized surface stations and reanalysis data
Authors: You Qinglong , Fraedrich Klaus , Ren Guoyu , Pepin Nick , Kang Shichang
Published: May 2012

The Tibetan Plateau (TP) with an average elevation of over 4000 m a.s.l. is the world's highest and most extensive highland. The scarcity of climatic observations limits our understanding of surface air temperature change in the region. Thus, we compare temperatures and their trends from 71 homogenized surface stations (with elevations above 2000 m a.s.l.) with National Centers for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP/NCAR) Reanalysis (NCEP/NCAR hereafter) and European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) reanalysis (ERA‐40 hereafter) in the eastern and central TP during 1961–2004. For current climatology, ERA‐40 is more similar to the surface stations than NCEP/NCAR. Compared with surface stations, both NCEP/NCAR and ERA‐40 reanalyses have cold biases, which are mainly a result of differences in topographical height, and station aspect and slope. Warming trends at the surface stations are on average stronger than in both reanalyses, but ERA‐40 captures the surface warming more clearly than NCEP/NCAR on an annual and seasonal basis. Since ERA‐40 more closely represents the surface temperatures and their trends in the central and eastern TP, ERA‐40 predictions are selected to examine change in the western TP where there are few surface stations. NCEP/NCAR, on the other hand, is more representative of free air temperature conditions. The ‘observation minus reanalysis’ (OMR) method can be used to estimate the impact of surface changes on climate by computing the difference between surface observations and NCEP/NCAR (which only contains the forcing influencing the assimilated atmospheric trends). The OMR trend is significantly increasing but the extent to which the changes in local environment are responsible needs further study. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
The ‘spring predictability barrier’ for ENSO predictions and its possible mechanism: results from a fully coupled model
Authors: Duan Wansuo , Wei Chao
Published: May 2012

Using predictions for the sea surface temperature (SST) generated by a Flexible Global Ocean‐Atmosphere‐Land System model of IAP/LASG (FGOALS‐g), the season‐dependent predictability of SST anomalies for El Nino/La Nina events is investigated by analyzing the forecast error growth in an imperfect model scenario. The results indicate that, for the predictions through the spring season in the growth phase of El Nino events, the prediction errors induced by both initial errors and model errors tend to have a prominent season‐dependent evolution and yield a prominent spring predictability barrier (SPB). For the decay‐phase predictions of El Nino events, a less prominent season‐dependent evolution of prediction errors and then a less prominent SPB are observed. For the growth‐ and decay‐phase predictions of La Nina events, the prediction errors do not exhibit a significant season‐dependent evolution and yield a less prominent SPB phenomenon. These results indicate that the SPB phenomenon depends remarkably on the ENSO events themselves, particularly the phases of the El Nino/La Nina events. We also report that the initial SST errors that correspond to a significant SPB for El Nino events tend to have the dominant modes in a large‐scale dipolar pattern with negative anomalies in the equatorial central‐western Pacific and positive anomalies in the eastern Pacific, or vice versa. We further demonstrate that the error growth related to a significant SPB for El Nino prediction generated by the FGOALS‐g model can result from two dynamical mechanisms: in one case, the prediction errors grow in a manner similar to El Niño; in the other, the prediction errors develop with a tendency opposite to El Niño. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Short latency afferent inhibition in Parkinson's disease patients with dementia
Authors: Celebi Ozlem , Temuçin Çağrı Mesut , Elibol Bulent , Saka Esen
Published: May 2012

Background:

Cortical cholinergic deficiency occurs in Parkinson's disease (PD) and is more severe in PD dementia (PDD). Short‐latency afferent inhibition (SAI) can be used as an in vivo test for the evaluation of the cholinergic circuit in the cerebral motor cortex.

Methods:

SAI and neuropsychological profile were studied in nondemented PD, PDD, Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients, and age‐matched controls.

Results:

SAI was significantly impaired in AD cases (94.7 ± 6.2 versus 55.5 ± 4.0; P < 0.0001). In PD patients, it was not different from controls (61.4 ± 5.8 versus 55.5 ± 4.0; P = 0.412). PDD cases demonstrated a significant impairment in SAI (91.4 ± 5.2 versus 55.5 ± 4.0; P < 0.0001). A high correlation was found between SAI and Mini–Mental State Examination (r = −0.68; P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

These findings add further evidence that differential cholinergic deficiency occurs in PD and PDD. SAI can be a neurophysiological correlate of PDD. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Polymeric superabsorbing composite prepared using a glow‐discharge electrolysis plasma for the removal of divalent heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions and its swelling properties
Authors: Wang Xinggang , Gao Jinzhang , Yang Wu
Published: May 2012

A novel polymeric superabsorbing composite was prepared using the graft copolymerization of acrylic acid (AANa, 70% neutralization with NaOH) and 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl propane sulfonic acid (AMPS) onto the hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) [HEC‐g‐P(AANa‐co‐AMPS)], which was initiated by means of a glow‐discharge electrolysis plasma rather than a chemical initiator. The composite material was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). We obtained absorbencies of 2490 g g−1 for distilled water and of 109 g g−1 for 0.9 wt% NaCl solution. Results show that the maximum adsorption capacities for Ni(II), Cu(II), Cd(II), Pb(II), and Hg(II) from aqueous solution were 974.84, 975.43, 1535.52, 1970.47, and 1879.53 mg g−1, respectively. The adsorption isotherm followed the Langmuir isotherm model very well. Adsorption kinetics results indicate that the fast adsorption rate followed the pseudo‐second‐order kinetics equations. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Toughening of polyvinylchloride by methyl methacrylate–butadiene–styrene core–shell rubber particles: Influence of rubber particle size
Authors: Zhou Chao , Liu Hua , Chen Ming , Wu Guangfeng , Zhang Huixuan
Published: May 2012

An analysis was made on the effects of rubber particle size on the mechanical properties and deformation mechanisms of transparent polyvinyl chloride (PVC) blends containing core–shell methyl methacrylate–butadiene–styrene (MBS) impact modifiers. The critical interparticle distance was found not to be the criterion for the brittle‐ductile transition in the blends. In tensile tests, the blends with larger (100–280 nm) rubber particles exhibited intense stress‐whitening, while one blend with small (83 nm) rubber particles showed only slight stress‐whitening. These differences were due to an increase in resistance to cavitation with decreasing rubber particle size. Transmission electron microscopy studies on blends with a bimodal distribution of particle sizes showed that in the whitened zone of Izod specimens the larger rubber particles cavitated and expanded on yielding, while the smaller particles remained intact. However, Izod test results showed that small MBS rubber particles can toughen the PVC matrix very effectively, especially at low temperatures and at low rubber concentrations. The deformation mechanisms responsible for these effects were discussed. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Electroluminescence as a spatial characterisation technique for dye‐sensitised solar cells
Authors: Bokalič Matevž , Krašovec Urša Opara , Topič Marko
Published: May 2012

In this study, electroluminescence as a spatial characterisation technique is used to characterise a 6.9% efficient dye‐sensitised solar cell. The obtained image is compared with a light beam‐induced current scan image and a transmittance image. Results reveal the presence of inhomogeneities including those resulting from the topography of the cell and from defects, for example, presence of iodine crystals in the electrolyte, localised absence of dye in the active layer and poor adhesion of the active layer to the electrodes. The ability to identify such inhomogeneities within a relatively short acquisition time gives electroluminescence an advantage over the light beam‐induced current technique. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mitigation of signal suppression caused by the use of trifluoroacetic acid in liquid chromatography mobile phases during liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis via post‐column addition of ammonium hydroxide
Authors: Chan Chang‐Ching , Bolgar Mark S. , Dalpathado Dilusha , Lloyd David K.
Published: May 2012

A method has been developed to reduce the mass spectrometric ion signal suppression associated with the use of TFA as an additive in LC mobile phases. Through post‐column infusion of diluted NH4OH solution to LC eluents, the ammonium ion introduced causes the neutral analyte‐TFA ion pair to dissociate which consequently releases the protonated analyte as free ions into the gas phase (through regular electrospray ionization mechanisms). An ion signal improvement from 1.2 to 20 times for a variety of compounds had been achieved through the application of this method. The molar ratios of NH4OH:TFA which result in a reduction of signal suppression were determined to be between 0.5:1 and 50:1. In addition, it was shown that this NH4OH infusion method could reduce the level of doubly‐charged species and the product ions formed via in‐source collision. The use of diluted NH4OH solution is favorable since it is compatible with mass spectrometry analysis, and it is applicable in both positive and negative‐ion generation mode. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Blind detection of spread spectrum flow watermarks
Authors: Jia Weijia , Tso Fung Po , Ling Zhen , Fu Xinwen , Xuan Dong , Yu Wei
Published: May 2012

Recently, the direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS)‐based technique has been proposed to trace anonymous network flows. In this technique, homogeneous pseudo‐noise (PN) codes are used to modulate multiple bit signals that are embedded into the target flow as watermarks. This technique could be maliciously used to degrade an anonymous communication network. In this paper, we propose an effective single flow‐based scheme to detect the existence of these watermarks. Our investigation shows that, even if we have no knowledge of the applied PN code, we are still able to detect malicious DSSS watermarks via mean‐square autocorrelation (MSAC) of a single modulated flow's traffic rate time series. MSAC shows periodic peaks because of self‐similarity in the modulated traffic caused by homogeneous PN codes that are used in modulating multiple bit signals. Our scheme has low complexity and does not require any PN code synchronization. We evaluate this detection scheme's effectiveness via simulations. Our results demonstrate a high detection rate with a low false positive rate. Real‐world experiments on Tor also validate the feasibility of the detection scheme. Our scheme is more flexible and accurate than the existing multiflow‐based approach in DSSS watermark detection. We also present a theory for reconstructing the DSSS code once the DSSS code length is known and simulations validate the feasibility. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hidden mortality of prenatally diagnosed vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation: retrospective study and review of the literature
Authors: Deloison B. , Chalouhi G. E. , Sonigo P. , Zerah M. , Millischer A. E. , Dumez Y. , Brunelle F. , Ville Y. , Salomon L. J.
Published: May 2012

Objective

To evaluate the prognosis of prenatally diagnosed vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation (VGAM) in a large cohort with this condition and to review the literature on prenatally diagnosed VGAM.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of all cases of prenatally diagnosed VGAM managed in our referral center during a 12‐year period. VGAM was categorized as being either isolated or associated with any other abnormality, based on fetal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging findings. Poor outcomes comprised termination of pregnancy with confirmation of antenatal findings, perinatal death and severe cardiac and/or neurological impairment in survivors. The literature was also reviewed for similar cases.

Results

Twenty‐one cases of prenatally diagnosed VGAM were managed in our center. Four (19.0%) cases were isolated and 17 (81.0%) were associated with other anomalies. There were nine terminations (42.9%) and six neonatal deaths (28.6%). Six children (28.6%) were still alive at last follow‐up, of whom three had abnormal neurological development. VGAM associated with other anomalies was strongly associated with a poor outcome compared with isolated forms (P < 0.0001). One hundred and nine cases from the literature were also reviewed.

Conclusion

Fetuses with prenatally diagnosed VGAM have unexpectedly poor outcomes in the presence of cardiac or cerebral anomalies, while those with strictly isolated VGAM tend to have more favorable outcomes. Our literature review corroborates these findings.
Lateral ventricles in fetuses with aneuploidies at 11–13 weeks' gestation
Authors: Loureiro T. , Ushakov F. , Maiz N. , Montenegro N. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: May 2012

Objective

To examine the possible association between aneuploidies and fetal lateral cerebral ventriculomegaly in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Methods

Three‐dimensional brain volumes were acquired by transvaginal ultrasound examination at 11–13 weeks' gestation in 410 euploid fetuses and 63 fetuses with trisomy 21, 34 with trisomy 18 and seven with trisomy 13. Lateral ventricles were assessed in a transverse view, just above the roof of the third ventricle and measurements of the areas of the lateral ventricles and choroid plexuses were obtained. The ratio between choroid plexus and lateral ventricle areas (CLR) was calculated. Measurements in aneuploid fetuses were compared to those in euploid fetuses.

Results

In euploid fetuses the lateral ventricle and choroid plexus areas increased, whereas the CLR decreased with fetal biparietal diameter. In fetuses with trisomy 21, lateral ventricle and choroid plexus areas were smaller but CLR was not significantly different from that in euploid fetuses. In trisomy 18 and 13 fetuses, CLR was significantly smaller than in euploid fetuses. The CLR was below the 5th centile of normal range in 11 (32.4%) fetuses with trisomy 18 and in six (85.7%) with trisomy 13.

Conclusion

There is evidence of ventriculomegaly at 11–13 weeks' gestation in most fetuses with trisomy 13 and one third of fetuses with trisomy 18. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resistance to Bemisia tabaci in tomato wild relatives
Authors: Firdaus Syarifin , van Heusden Adriaan W. , Hidayati Nurul , Supena Ence Darmo Jaya , Visser Richard G. F. , Vosman Ben
Published: May 2012

Bemisia tabaci is one of the most threatening pests in agriculture, particularly in Solanaceous crops such as tomato and pepper that are cultivated in the open field. Pesticide application is often not effective and hazardous to humans and environment. The exploitation of plant natural defenses that are present in wild relatives of tomato, may offer a solution. To evaluate resistance parameters and to identify plant material with high levels of resistance, we screened a number of accessions of tomato wild relatives using three methods; a free-choice test in a screenhouse in Indonesia, a no-choice test with clip-on cages in a greenhouse and a leaf disc test in a climate-room in the Netherlands. Antibiosis resulting in low adult survival was the major component for resistance in tomato. However, other resistance component(s) may play a role as well. In some accessions there was a change in the resistance level over time. Several resistance parameters used in the different tests were well correlated. The best resistance source was an accession of Solanum galapagense, which had not been identified as being resistant in the past. This is of particular interest as this species is closely related to the cultivated tomato, which may facilitate introgression of the resistance component(s). Whitefly non-preference and resistance were associated with the presence of type IV trichomes. Other mechanisms might be involved since some accessions without type IV trichomes showed low nymphal density. The leaf disc test is a good in vitro alternative for the clip-on cage whitefly resistance screening, as shown by the high correlation between the results obtained with this test and the clip-on cage test. This offers breeders the possibility to carry out tests more efficiently.
Elite Competition, Religiosity, and Anti-Americanism in the Islamic World
Authors: BLAYDES LISA , LINZER DREW A.
Published: May 2012

The battle for public opinion in the Islamic world is an ongoing priority for U.S. diplomacy. The current debate over why many Muslims hold anti-American views revolves around whether they dislike fundamental aspects of American culture and government, or what Americans do in international affairs. We argue, instead, that Muslim anti-Americanism is predominantly a domestic, elite-led phenomenon that intensifies when there is greater competition between Islamist and secular-nationalist political factions within a country. Although more observant Muslims tend to be more anti-American, paradoxically the most anti-American countries are those in which Muslim populations are less religious overall, and thus more divided on the religious–secular issue dimension. We provide case study evidence consistent with this explanation, as well as a multilevel statistical analysis of public opinion data from nearly 13,000 Muslim respondents in 21 countries.
Novel methodologies for assessing omega-3 fatty acid status – a systematic review
Authors: Klingler Mario , Koletzko Berthold
Published: May 2012

Over the last few decadesn-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid status became of special interest for scientists. Biochemical measures on then-3 fatty acid status vary depending on body compartment assessed and measures chosen. Plasma phospholipids and red blood cell membrane phospholipids are mainly used asn-3 fatty acid status marker. The conventional analysis of phospholipid fatty acids involves lipid extraction and consecutive chromatographic separation of phospholipids from other lipid fractions, which is time-consuming and costly. In recent years, different investigators have tried to overcome these limitations by using other biological markers or by modifying the analytical procedures used to assessn-3 fatty acid status. The aim of this systematic review was to provide an overview on these novel analytical methods developed for the fatty acid quantification by gas chromatography, highlights the methodological limitations, and discusses advantages or disadvantages of the biological markers used. Seventeen papers were identified that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. New opportunities arise from sensitive and precise high-throughput methodologies for assessment of plasma total lipid and plasma glycerophospholipid fatty acids, as well as cheek cell fatty acid composition.
Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and body weight
Authors: Martínez-Victoria Emilio , Yago María Dolores
Published: May 2012

In animal studies,n-3 PUFA have been shown to influence body composition and to reduce the accumulation of body fat, thereby affecting body weight homeostasis. In addition, it has been suggested that an additional supply ofn-3 PUFA during pregnancy or lactation, or both, would have a beneficial effect on birth weight and infant growth and development. The purpose of the present study was to systematically review interventional clinical trials on the effects of dietaryn-3 PUFA supplementation on body weight in adult subjects and in infants whose mothers were supplemented with these fatty acids during pregnancy and/or lactation. A systematic search, focused onn-3 PUFA and body weight, and limited to controlled clinical trials, was performed in different databases. The quality of all included studies was assessed against set criteria, and results of eligible trials were compared. There were few studies targeting this topic. In adults, all of the five studies included, except for one, show no change in body weight by dietary supplementation withn-3 PUFA. Within those trials conducted in pregnant and/or lactating women in which a main outcome was birth weight or growth in infancy, two showed a modest increase in birth weight and the rest showed no effect. None of the trials showed an effect of maternaln-3 PUFA supplementation on infant's weight at the short term. However, it should be noted that a number of limitations, including a variety of experimental designs, type and doses ofn-3 PUFA, and high attrition rates, among others, make impossible to draw robust conclusions from this review.
Omega 3 fatty acids in the elderly
Authors: Úbeda Natalia , Achón María , Varela-Moreiras Gregorio
Published: May 2012

Population ageing affects the entire world population. Also at world level one can observe a sharp increase in the proportion of older people. The challenge posed by population ageing translates into ensuring that the extra years of life will be as good as possible, free from high-cost dependency. Omega-3 fatty acids are now generally recognized as potential key nutrients to prevent the pathological conditions associated to the aging process. Ageing physiological process, its association with quality of life and the impact of omega-3 fatty acids intake and/or status is the focus of the present review. This report deals with the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on normal aging of older adults ( ≥  65 years) mainly on the effects such as nutritional status itself, cognition, bone health, muscle tonus, and general health status. The preliminary broad search of the literature on the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on normal aging yielded 685 citations. Forty two full text papers were checked for inclusion and thirty six studies were finally included in this review. It may be concluded that paradoxically even though the elderly population is the largest one, the number of studies and the methodology employed clearly lacks of sufficient evidence to establish definite conclusions on the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on aging metabolism without pathological conditions and on quality of life.
Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation on inflammatory biomakers: a systematic review of randomised clinical trials
Authors: Rangel-Huerta Oscar D. , Aguilera Concepcion M. , Mesa Maria D. , Gil Angel
Published: May 2012

Inflammation is part of the normal host response to infection and injury. Eicosanoids, cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules and other inflammatory molecules are frequently produced during this process. Numerous studies in humans have documented the inflammation-limiting properties of omega-3 fatty acids, but only a few have been randomised clinical trials. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic search of randomised clinical trials on omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory biomarkers in all subjects including healthy and ill persons up to February 2011 using PubMed and LILACS databases, defined by a specific equation using MeSH terms and limited to randomised clinical trials; there was no any a priori decision to include some diseases and not others. The quality of each publication was validated by using the JADAD scale and the CONSORT checklist. Inflammatory biomarkers were considered as primary outcomes. Twenty-six publications of the last 10 years were selected. Studies included healthy subjects and patients with cardiovascular disease and other chronic and acute diseases; all reported the number of subjects, type of study, type and doses of omega-3 fatty acids, main outcomes and major inflammatory biomarkers. Dietary omega-3 fatty acids are associated with plasma biomarker levels, reflecting lower levels of inflammation and endothelial activation in cardiovascular disease and other chronic and acute diseases, including chronic renal disease, sepsis and acute pancreatitis. However, further research is required before definitive recommendations can be made about the routine use of omega-3 fatty acids in critically ill patients or with neurodegenerative or chronic renal disease.
The effect of EPA and DHA on metabolic syndrome patients: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Lopez-Huertas Eduardo
Published: May 2012

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is characterised by accumulation of CVD risk factors. The use of very long chainn-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLCn3 PUFA) could potentially benefit MS by reducing risk factors. To better understand the possible VLCn3 PUFA benefits, the literature was systematically reviewed for randomised controlled trials (RCT) that published effects of VLCn3 PUFA on MS patients. 17 RCT fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were analysed for relevance to the research question. The available RCT convincingly show that the administration of VLCn3 PUFA doses > 1 g for at least 3 months produces a significant reduction of triglycerides ranging from 7 % to 25 %. These results confirm the hypotriglyceridemic effect of VLCn3 PUFA in MS patients. The triglyceride lowering may produce further benefits by reducing the % of pro-atherogenic small dense LDL particles (sdLDL) and also perhaps by ameliorating the inflammatory process associated with MS. High doses of VLCn3 PUFA ( ≥ 3 g/day) may produce further TAG reductions but could raise other risk factors such as LDL-C. No clear effects were found on other MS markers. The combination of VLCn3 PUFA plus a statin may be useful to prevent the occurrence of coronary events. More studies are needed using different amounts of VLCn3 PUFA, time lengths, dietary backgrounds and different profiles of MS patients before clear recommendations can be made.
Long chain omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease: a systematic review
Authors: Delgado-Lista Javier , Perez-Martinez Pablo , Lopez-Miranda Jose , Perez-Jimenez Francisco
Published: May 2012

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease remains the commonest health problem in developed countries, and residual risk after implementing all current therapies is still high. The use of marine omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) has been recommended to reduce cardiovascular risk by multiple mechanisms. Objectives: To update the current evidence on the influence of omega-3 on the rate of cardiovascular events. Review Methods: We used the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases to identify clinical trials and randomized controlled trials of omega-3 fatty acids (with quantified quantities) either in capsules or in dietary intake, compared to placebo or usual diet, equal to or longer than 6 months, and written in English. The primary outcome was a cardiovascular event of any kind and secondary outcomes were all-cause mortality, cardiac death and coronary events. We used RevMan 5·1 (Mantel-Haenszel method). Heterogeneity was assessed by the I2and Chi2tests. We included 21 of the 452 pre-selected studies. Results: We found an overall decrease of risk of suffering a cardiovascular event of any kind of 10 % (OR 0·90; [0·85–0·96],p = 0·001), a 9 % decrease of risk of cardiac death (OR 0·91; [0·83–0·99];p = 0·03), a decrease of coronary events (fatal and non-fatal) of 18 % (OR 0·82; [0·75–0·90];p < 1 × 10− 4), and a trend to lower total mortality (5 % reduction of risk; OR 0·95; [0·89–1·02];p = 0·15. Most of the studies analyzed included persons with high cardiovascular risk. Conclusions: marine omega-3 fatty acids are effective in preventing cardiovascular events, cardiac death and coronary events, especially in persons with high cardiovascular risk.
Omega-3 fatty acids and cancers: a systematic update review of epidemiological studies
Authors: Gerber Mariette
Published: May 2012

Experimental models showed consistently a modulation of carcinogenesis by omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω3 PUFA). Fish intake is often described as part of a beneficial dietary pattern. However, observational epidemiological studies on the relationship between ω3 PUFA reported conflicting results. The objective of this systematic review is to determine whether there exists any progress in the evaluation of the causal relationship between dietary ω3 PUFA and cancers since the previous FAO/OMS expert consultation and whether it is possible to propose preventive and/or adjuvant therapeutic recommendations. Prospective and case-control observational studies published since 2007 and meeting validity criteria were considered together with RCT. Experimental studies are mentioned to provide for biological plausibility. When evaluating the level of evidence, a portfolio approach was used, weighted by a hierarchy giving higher importance to prospective studies followed by RCT if any. There is a probable level of evidence that ALAper seis neither a risk factor nor a beneficial factor with regards to cancers. Observational studies on colorectal, prostate and breast cancers only provided limited evidence suggesting a possible role of LC-ω3PUFA in cancer prevention because insufficient homogeneity of the observations. Explanation for heterogeneity might be the inherent difficulties associated with epidemiology (confounding and dietary pattern context, measurement error, level of intake, genetic polymorphism). The role of LC-ω3PUFA as adjuvant, might be considered of possible use, in view of the latest RCT on lung cancers even if RCT on other cancers still need to be undertaken.