bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Representation, philosophical issues about
Authors: Roth Martin A. 
Published: December 2009

AbstractThe concept ofrepresentationplays a central role in philosophical and scientific theorizing about the mind, and according to the representational theory of mind (RTM), a wide variety of cognitive and perceptual capacities are best explained in terms of the occurrence and processing of mental representations. The concept of representation remains elusive, however, and there is no widespread agreement among philosophers or cognitive scientists over what it is for one thing to represent another. One reason for the lack of consensus is that philosophers and scientists deploy the concept in many different ways for many different purposes. Another reason for the lack of consensus is that, while it is generally agreed that a scientifically useful notion of representation should be informed and constrained by what we know about brains, there is disagreement over what contemporary neuroscience does or does not suggest about the nature of representation. This article discusses some of the key issues involved in developing a general theory of mental representation, in light of these divergent purposes and conflicting views. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.This article is categorized under:Philosophy > Foundations of Cognitive Science
The MHD boundary layer flow due to a rough rotating disk
Authors: Turkyilmazoglu M. 
Published: December 2009

AbstractThe present paper is devoted to the solution of the steady laminar flow of an incompressible viscous electrically conducting fluid over a rotating disk in the presence of a uniform transverse magnetic field. Classical von Kármán problem of a rotating disk is extended to the case where the disk surface admits partial slip. Using von Kármán similarity transformation the nonlinear equations of motion are reduced to a boundary value problem whose solution is then obtained in terms of a series of exponentially decaying functions for the full range of slip coefficients. The exact numerical method is found to improve as the strength of the magnetic field and the strength of the applied slip are increased. The effects of the magnetic field together with the slip on the physically significant relevant parameters, such as the wall shears, the torque, and the vertical suction are clarified. Purely explicit analytical expressions for the solution of magnetohydrodynamic equations to support the numerically evaluated solutions are also obtained via the homotopy analysis method.
On some constitutive equations for micropolar plates
Authors: Chróścielewski J. , Witkowski W. 
Published: December 2009

AbstractIn this paper we discuss the constitutive relations for micropolar plates recently obtained by Altenbach and Eremeyev. We pay particular attention to their relation for the resultant drilling stress couple and compare it with that used so far in the statically and kinematically exact nonlinear six‐parameter shell theory. Using the results of Altenbach and Eremeyev, we present bounds on values of the constitutive parameter αt from the six‐parameter shell theory model. Some representative numerical simulations show how the drilling stiffness αt affects the FEM results.
Styrene and Phenylethanol Adsolubilization of a Polymerizable Gemini Surfactant
Authors: Asnachinda Emma , Khaodhiar Sutha , Sabatini David A. 
Published: December 2009

AbstractA polymerizable gemini surfactant was used to adsolubilize styrene and phenylethanol, representing less and more polar organic solutes, respectively, in order to evaluate the impact of admicellar polymerization on the adsolubilization process. Adsolubilization was also evaluated using a polymerizable monomeric surfactant and conventional surfactant for comparison purposes. The main results were that: (1) polymerized and unpolymerized admicelles showed similar adsolubilization potential—validating the use of polymerized admicelles without sacrificing adsolubilization, and (2) gemini surfactants showed adsolubilization capacities equal to or higher than conventional surfactants.
A Novel mRNA Level Subtraction Method for Quick Identification of Target-Orientated Uniquely Expressed Genes Between Peanut Immature Pod and Leaf
Authors: Wu Ning , Matand Kanyand , Williams Sonya 
Published: December 2009

Abstract
Subtraction technique has been broadly applied for target gene discovery. However, most current protocols apply relative differential subtraction and result in great amount clone mixtures of unique and differentially expressed genes. This makes it more difficult to identify unique or target-orientated expressed genes. In this study, we developed a novel method for subtraction at mRNA level by integrating magnetic particle technology into driver preparation and tester–driver hybridization to facilitate uniquely expressed gene discovery between peanut immature pod and leaf through a single round subtraction. The resulting target clones were further validated through polymerase chain reaction screening using peanut immature pod and leaf cDNA libraries as templates. This study has resulted in identifying several genes expressed uniquely in immature peanut pod. These target genes can be used for future peanut functional genome and genetic engineering research.
“Top hat” versus conventional loop electrosurgical excision procedure in women with a type 3 transformation zone
Authors: Kietpeerakool Chumnan , Suprasert Prapaporn , Khunamornpong Surapan , Sukpan Kornkanok , Settakorn Jongkolnee , Srisomboon Jatupol 
Published: December 2009

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the “top‐hat” and conventional loop electrosurgical excision procedures (LEEP) performed in women with a type 3 transformation zone to assess the rate of endocervical margin involvement.MethodsWomen with a type 3 transformation zone randomly allocated into the conventional (n = 94) and top‐hat LEEP (n = 86) groups were analyzed.ResultsThe rate of endocervical margin involvement in the top‐hat group was lower than that in the conventional group (32.6% vs 53.2%; RR 0.36; 95% CI, 0.19–0.68; P = 0.003). Among women with positive endocervical margins, women undergoing top‐hat LEEP were less likely to have residual lesions compared with those in the conventional group (52.2% vs 84.1%, respectively, P = 0.04). There was no significant difference in the complication rate between the top‐hat and conventional groups (7.0% vs 10.6%, respectively, P = 0.39).ConclusionTop‐hat LEEP performed in women with a type 3 transformation zone reduces the risks of endocervical margin involvement and residual diseases compared with conventional LEEP, with no significant difference in perioperative complications.
Epicatechin induces NF-κB, activator protein-1 (AP-1) and nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2p45-related factor-2 (Nrf2) via phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) and extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) signalling in HepG2 cells
Authors: Granado-Serrano Ana Belén , Martín María Angeles , Haegeman Guy , Goya Luis , Bravo Laura , Ramos Sonia 
Published: December 2009

The dietary flavonoid epicatechin has been reported to exhibit a wide range of biological activities. The objective of the present study was to investigate the time-dependent regulation by epicatechin on the activity of the main transcription factors (NF-κB, activator protein-1 (AP-1) and nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2p45-related factor (Nrf2)) related to antioxidant defence and survival and proliferation pathways in HepG2 cells. Treatment of cells with 10 μm-epicatechin induced the NF-κB pathway in a time-dependent manner characterised by increased levels of IκB kinase (IKK) and phosphorylated inhibitor of κB subunit-α (p-IκBα) and proteolytic degradation of IκB, which was consistent with an up-regulation of the NF-κB-binding activity. Time-dependent activation of the AP-1 pathway, in concert with enhanced c-Jun nuclear levels and induction of Nrf2 translocation and phosphorylation were also demonstrated. Additionally, epicatechin-induced NF-κB and Nrf2 were connected to reactive oxygen species intracellular levels and to the activation of cell survival and proliferation pathways, being phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) and extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) associated to Nrf2 modulation and ERK to NF-κB induction. These data suggest that the epicatechin-induced survival effect occurs by the induction of redox-sensitive transcription factors through a tight regulation of survival and proliferation pathways.
Peanut protein reduces body protein mass and alters skeletal muscle contractile properties and lipid metabolism in rats
Authors: Jacques Hélène , Leblanc Nadine , Papineau Roxanne , Richard Denis , Côté Claude H. 
Published: December 2009

It is well known that diets high in nuts or peanuts favourably affect plasma lipid concentrations. However, few studies have examined the effects of nut and peanut protein (PP) on body composition and skeletal muscle properties. The present study was aimed at evaluating the effect of dietary PP compared with two animal proteins, casein (C) and cod protein (CP) on body composition, skeletal muscle contractile properties and lipid metabolism in rats. Thirty-two male rats were assigned to one of the following four diets containing either C, CP, PP or C+peanut protein (CPP, 50:50) mixture. After 28 d ofad libitumfeeding and after 12-h fast, blood, liver and muscle were collected for measurements of plasma and hepatic cholesterol and TAG, plasma glucose and insulin and contractile properties. Rats fed with the low-quality protein, PP, had lower body weight gain, body protein mass, soleus mass and liver weight than those fed with the high-quality dietary proteins, C and CP. PP also caused a deficit in contractile properties in soleus. Likewise, PP increased plasma cholesterol and body fat mass compared with CP. However, these elevations were accompanied with increased hepatic TAG concentrations and lowered intestinal fat excretion. These results show that PP intake alters body composition by reducing skeletal muscle mass and liver weight as well as muscle contractility and lipid metabolism. Adding a complete protein such as C might partially counteract these adverse effects.
An unusual case of cotton wool use to improve hearing
Authors: Bergin M , Murray D , Bird P 
Published: December 2009

AbstractObjectives:To report an unusual observation whereby hearing was improved by insertion of cotton wool onto a retracted tympanic membrane, and to explore potential explanations for this.Case report:We report the case of a 56-year-old woman with a severe mixed hearing loss who was noted to have a significant improvement in her hearing using a technique shown to her many years ago by a Russian physician. Upon application of a moist piece of cotton wool, gains of up to 40 dB were observed. This was associated with a significant subjective improvement in hearing. We discuss potential mechanisms for this effect, including amplification, a baffle effect and phase differences.Conclusion:The mechanism of the hearing improvement observed in this case is unknown, but is likely to be related to sound amplification from the relatively large surface area of the cotton wool to the smaller oval window.
The Transportation of Narain Sing: Punishment, Honour and Identity from the Anglo–Sikh Wars to the Great Revolt
Authors: ANDERSON CLARE 
Published: December 2009

AbstractThis paper examines fragments from the life of Narain Sing as a means of exploring punishment, labour, society and social transformation in the aftermath of the Anglo–Sikh Wars (1845–1846, 1848–1849). Narain Sing was a famous military general who the British convicted of treason and sentenced to transportation overseas after the annexation of the Panjab in 1849. He was shipped as a convict to one of the East India Company's penal settlements in Burma where, in 1861, he was appointed head police constable of Moulmein. Narain Sing's experiences of military service, conviction, transportation and penal work give us a unique insight into questions of loyalty, treachery, honour, masculinity and status. When his life history is placed within the broader context of continuing agitation against the expansion of British authority in the Panjab, we also glimpse something of the changing nature of identity and the development of Anglo–Sikh relations more broadly between the wars of the 1840s and the Great Indian Revolt of 1857–1858.
Concurrent nematode infection and pregnancy induce physiological responses that impair linear growth in the murine foetus
Authors: ODIERE M. R. , KOSKI K. G. , WEILER H. A. , SCOTT M. E. 
Published: December 2009

SUMMARYThis study examined concurrent stresses of nematode infection and pregnancy using pregnant and non-pregnant CD1 mice infected 3 times with 0, 50 or 100Heligmosomoides bakerilarvae. Physiological, energetic, immunological and skeletal responses were measured in maternal and foetal compartments. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) was elevated by pregnancy, but not by the trickle infection. Energy demands during pregnancy were met through increased food intake and fat utilization whereas mice lowered their body temperature during infection. Both infection and pregnancy increased visceral organ mass and both altered regional bone area and mineralization. During pregnancy, lumbar mineralization was lower but femur area and mineralization were higher. On the other hand, infection lowered maternal femur bone area and this was associated with higher IFN-γ in maternal serum of heavily infected pregnant mice. Infection also reduced foetal crown-rump length which was associated with higher amniotic fluid IL-1β.
Enhancing understanding: The development of a glossary of health technology assessment adaptation terms
Authors: Rosten Claire , Chase Deborah L. , Hicks Nicholas J. , Milne Ruairidh 
Published: December 2009

Background: The way people use health technology assessment (HTA) terms varies considerably across Europe. Such variation can lead to misunderstandings when reading HTA reports from different contexts. This work is one of the outputs of the EUnetHTA Project and was undertaken between 2006 and 2008.Objectives: The aim of this study was to develop a glossary of HTA adaptation terms to help reduce the misunderstandings of terms used in HTA reports from contexts other than the reader's own.Methods: Several HTA glossaries were examined to identify ways in which an additional glossary could offer readers something new and to identify adaptation terms for inclusion. Twenty-eight European HTA organizations provided terms for the glossary and drafted descriptions and examples of how each specific term was used in their particular setting. The organizations then commented on the descriptions provided by the other groups and worked together to draft a single description for certain terms.Results: A glossary of HTA adaptation terms was developed. It provides a comprehensive range of descriptions, examples, and comments for forty-two potentially confusing HTA terms related to adaptation.Conclusions: This glossary will be a valuable resource for European HTA agencies when reading HTA reports produced in different contexts and for adapting HTA reports produced in other countries. The glossary will help improve understanding and help facilitate the adaptation process.
A common policy framework for evidence generation on promising health technologies
Authors: Carbonneil Cédric , Quentin Fabienne , Lee-Robin Sun Hae 
Published: December 2009

Background:Generation of additional evidence may be necessary to access new promising technologies (marketing approval or coverage). Access with evidence generation (AEG) is a more recent concept with regard to coverage than to marketing approval.Objectives:One aim of Work Package 7 (WP7) Strand A of the European network for Health Technology Assessment (EUnetHTA) was to provide an overview of national AEG mechanisms associated with marketing approvals and funding or coverage decisions.Methods:A systematic literature review, surveys of WP7 Partners, and consultation of key people were used to obtain information on the AEG mechanisms used by twenty-three countries (twenty European countries, United States, Canada [Ontario], and Australia).Results:Interest in the implementation of AEG policies, particularly at the coverage decision stage, is growing. An overview of national experiences was used to draw up a generally applicable five-step policy framework for AEG mechanisms that comprised (i) a first assessment identifying knowledge gaps; (ii) a decision conditional to evidence generation; (iii) generation of the evidence requested; (iv) re-assessment integrating the new evidence; (v) a revised decision. The critical factors for success that were identified were coordination, methodological guidance, funding, and a regulatory framework. Countries were categorized on the basis of current implementation of the proposed policy framework.Conclusions:International collaboration is necessary to gather a critical mass of high-quality data quickly and to ensure timely access to new promising technologies. The overview produced by WP7A has led to development of tools to facilitate collaboration on evidence generation.
Internal evaluation of the European network for Health Technology Assessment project
Authors: Håheim Lise Lund , Imaz Iñaki , Loud Marlène Läubli , Gasparetto Teresa , González-Enriquez Jesús , Dahlgren Helena , Trofimovs Igor , Berti Elena , Mørland Berit 
Published: December 2009

Objectives: The internal evaluation studied the development of the European network for Health Technology Assessment (EUnetHTA) Project in achieving the general objective of establishing an effective and a sustainable network of health technology assessment (HTA) in Europe.Methods: The Work Package 3 group was dedicated to this task and performed the work. Information on activities during the project was collected from three sources. First, three yearly cross-sectional studies surveyed the participants’ opinions. Responses were by individuals or by institutions. The last round included surveys to the Steering Committee, the Stakeholder Forum, and the Secretariat. Second, the Work Package Lead Partners were interviewed bi-annually, five times in total, to update the information on the Project's progress. Third, additional information was sought in available documents.Results: The organizational structure remained stable. The Project succeeded in developing tools aimed at providing common methodology with intent to establish a standard of conducting and reporting HTA and to facilitate greater collaboration among agencies. The participants/agencies expressed their belief in a network and in maintaining local/national autonomy. The Work Package Leaders expressed a strong belief in the solid base of the Project for a future network on which to build, but were aware of the need for funding and governmental support.Conclusions: Participants and Work Package Leaders have expressed support for a future network that will improve national and international collaboration in HTA based on the experience from the EUnetHTA project.
Challenges in modeling disturbances' effects on terrestrial carbon cycling
Authors: Bond-Lamberty Ben 
Published: December 2009

AbstractEcosystem disturbance presents modelers with a number of problems, of which the disturbance event itself may be the least problematic. First, most ecosystem models depend on reaching a steady state before the main computation begins; this already-tricky initial value problem is complicated by disturbances during spinup, which may prevent steady state from being reached. Second, vegetation dynamics becomes more important in disturbed ecosystems, with nutrient cycling, albedo, and evapotranspiration all changing markedly. Succession is handled crudely (or not at all) by many large-scale models, however. Third, disturbances tend to export the carbon--and its climate forcing potential--from the system under study, complicating and expanding the scope of the problem at hand, whether the modeler likes it or not. And finally, humans tend to be intimately involved in disturbances in many ecosystems in some surprising ways. This talk looks at each of these factors in turn, with reference to specific modeling examples or problems, and considers their consequences for the modeling of the North American carbon cycle and the increasing disturbances that affect it.
Comment to "Endogenous Viral Etiology of Prion Diseases"
Authors: Bandea Claudiu 
Published: December 2009

AbstractThis note is intended as a comment to a paper in Nature Precedings entitled "Endogenous viral etiology of prion diseases":http://precedings.nature.com/documents/3887/version/1 . Because it contains illustrations that could not be displayed in the comments section of that paper, I’m posting this comment here as a PDF document.
Phosphorylation of Photosystem II Controls Functional Macroscopic Folding of Photosynthetic Membranes inArabidopsis
Authors: Fristedt Rikard , Willig Adrian , Granath Pontus , Crèvecoeur Michèle , Rochaix Jean-David , Vener Alexander V. 
Published: December 2009

AbstractPhotosynthetic thylakoid membranes in plants contain highly folded membrane layers enriched in photosystem II, which uses light energy to oxidize water and produce oxygen. The sunlight also causes quantitative phosphorylation of major photosystem II proteins. Analysis of the Arabidopsis thaliana stn7xstn8 double mutant deficient in thylakoid protein kinases STN7 and STN8 revealed light-independent phosphorylation of PsbH protein and greatly reduced N-terminal phosphorylation of D2 protein. The stn7xstn8 and stn8 mutants deficient in light-induced phosphorylation of photosystem II had increased thylakoid membrane folding compared with wild-type and stn7 plants. Significant enhancement in the size of stacked thylakoid membranes in stn7xstn8 and stn8 accelerated gravity-driven sedimentation of isolated thylakoids and was observed directly in plant leaves by transmission electron microscopy. Increased membrane folding, caused by the loss of light-induced protein phosphorylation, obstructed lateral migration of the photosystem II reaction center protein D1 and of processing protease FtsH between the stacked and unstacked membrane domains, suppressing turnover of damaged D1 in the leaves exposed to high light. These findings show that the high level of photosystem II phosphorylation in plants is required for adjustment of macroscopic folding of large photosynthetic membranes modulating lateral mobility of membrane proteins and sustained photosynthetic activity.