bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Immune responses to hapten conjugatesin vitro
Authors: Kontiainen Sirkka , Mäkelä O. , Hurme M. 
Published: March 2009

Several functions of the animal body can take place in cell or tissue cultures with almost unreduced efficiency and precision. Functions, where only one cell type is involved, often do so, but also some differentiation steps where interactions between two or more cell types are clearly needed can take place in tissue culture (Saxénet al.1968).Most immune responses require collaboration between two or more cell types (Claman, Chaperon & Triplett, 1966; Miller & Mitchell, 1968; Feldmann & Nossal 1972c). Some of them can be easily inducedin vitrobut others cannot. Even when antibody responses can be inducedin vitrotheir intensity varies a great deal. With some antigens and under some circumstances a responsein vitrocan be nearly as strong as onein vivo.A crude comparison can be derived from responsesin vitroandin vivoto the same antigen, conjugate of hapten NIP and pneumococcal polysaccharide type III (NIP-SIll, Nakamura, Ray & Mäkelä, 1973).
Anomalous small angle scattering
Authors: Stuhrmann H. B. 
Published: March 2009

Isomorphous replacement methods have been revolutionary in macromolecular structure research. This has been most clearly demonstrated in protein crystallography. Specific binding of heavy atoms to protein molecules in the crystalline state provides the necessary reference for the phase determination of each Bragg reflexion and opens the way to the direct structure determination to atomic resolution from X-ray diffraction.Are isomorphous replacement methods applicable to the investigation of non-crystalline structures as well? And if so, would there be any reasonable advantage?An answer has been given by neutron scattering. Macromolecular assemblies of nucleic acids, proteins and lipids are most easily studied in H2O /D2O mixtures, as the scattering density of the solvent can be adjusted to any of the chemically different partial structures (Stuhrmann, 1974).
Visual control of orientation behaviour in the fly: Part I. A quantitative analysis
Authors: Reichardt Werner , Poggio Tomaso 
Published: March 2009

An understanding of sensory information processing in the nervous system will probably require investigations with a variety of ‘model’ systems at different levels of complexity.Our choice of a suitable model system was constrained by two conflicting requirements: on one hand the information processing properties of the system should be rather complex, on the other hand the system should be amenable to a quantitative analysis. In this sense the fly represents a compromise.In these two papers we explore how optical information is processed by the fly's visual system. Our objective is to unravel the logical organization of the fly's visual system and its underlying functional and computational principles. Our approach is at a highly integrative level. There are different levels of analysing and ‘understanding’ complex systems, like a brain or a sophisticated computer.
Visual control of orientation behaviour in the fly: Part II. Towards the underlying neural interactions
Authors: Poggio Tomaso , Reichardt Werner 
Published: March 2009

Visual information processing in the nervous system of flies begins with a large array of photoreceptors, which transduce a light intensity pattern, and culminates in a behavioural response that depends on that pattern.In the previous paper we have given a quantitative description of visual control of flight orientation in the fly. This description can account for fixation, tracking and some instances of spontaneous pattern preference behaviour. The phenomenological theory outlines the basic logical organization of the visual control system of the fly. It requires the neural network between the receptors and the flight muscles to perform two main computations on the visual input. One computation extractsmovementinformation (the termr(ψ)ψ b of the phenomenological equation). The other provides position information (the termD(ψ)).
The production and absorption of heat associated with electrical activity in nerve and electric organ
Authors: Ritchie J. M. , Keynes R. D. 
Published: March 2009

SUMMARYAll living cells require a supply of energy from appropriate metabolic pathways in order in fulfill their physiological functions. A special function common to peripheral nerve fibres and the electroplates of the electric organ is the generation of electrical potentials and a consequent flow of current. A large fraction of their metabolism is therefore devoted basically to maintenance of the unequal distribution of sodium and potassium ions across the cell membranes on which their electrical excitability depends, and involves a consumption of ATP by the membrane-bound Na, K—ATPase system known as the sodium pump.
The solar Julia sets of basic quadratic Cremer polynomials
Authors: BLOKH A. , BUFF X. , CHÉRITAT A. , OVERSTEEGEN L. 
Published: March 2009

AbstractIn general, little is known about the exact topological structure of Julia sets containing a Cremer point. In this paper we show that there exist quadratic Cremer Julia sets of positive area such that for a full Lebesgue measure set of angles the impressions are degenerate, the Julia set is connected im kleinen at the landing points of these rays, and these points are contained in no other impression.
A quantitative mean ergodic theorem for uniformly convex Banach spaces
Authors: KOHLENBACH U. , LEUŞTEAN L. 
Published: March 2009

AbstractWe provide an explicit uniform bound on the local stability of ergodic averages in uniformly convex Banach spaces. Our result can also be viewed as a finitary version in the sense of Tao of the mean ergodic theorem for such spaces and so generalizes similar results obtained for Hilbert spaces by Avigad et al [Local stability of ergodic averages. Trans. Amer. Math. Soc. to appear] and Tao [Norm convergence of multiple ergodic averages for commuting transformations. Ergod. Th. & Dynam. Sys.28(2) (2008), 657–688].
Control scheme including prediction and augmented reality for teleoperation of mobile robots
Authors: Slawiñski Emanuel , Mut Vicente 
Published: March 2009

SUMMARYThis paper proposes a control scheme for the teleoperation of a mobile robot in presence of time delay. Our proposal uses a compensation of the time delay based on a human operator's model and a simple 3D augmented reality scheme; both are related through a prediction system. Unlike other strategies, the proposed scheme has a model of the human operator inside it, including his decision so that human and robot “push in the same direction.” The stability of the teleoperation system adding the proposed control scheme is proven concluding how the time delay changes the convergence rate and the convergence ball size. Finally, to illustrate the performance and stability of the proposed control structure, several teleoperation experiments in presence of various delays are shown.
Survey and case-control study during epidemics of Puumala virus infection
Authors: WINTER C. H. , BROCKMANN S. O. , PIECHOTOWSKI I. , ALPERS K. , AN DER HEIDEN M. , KOCH J. , STARK K. , PFAFF G. 
Published: March 2009

SUMMARYIn Baden-Wuerttemberg, a federal state in south-west Germany, a large outbreak of 1089 laboratory-confirmed human Puumala virus (PUUV) infections occurred in 2007. We conducted a survey to describe the disease burden and a case-control study to identify risk factors for acquiring PUUV. Case-patients were interviewed about clinical outcome and both case-patients and randomly recruited controls were interviewed about exposure. We calculated matched odds ratios (mOR) using a conditional logistic regression model. Multivariable analysis of 191 matched case-control pairs showed that case-patients were more likely than controls to have seen small rodents/their droppings (mOR 1·9, 95% CI 1·2–3·0), cleaned utility rooms (mOR 1·8, 95% CI 1·0–3·4) and visited forest shelters (mOR 3·9, 95% CI 1·1–14·3). Two thirds of case-patients required hospitalization. During PUUV epidemics rodent control measures and use of protective equipment should be considered in utility rooms and shelters.
Assessment and simulation of the implementation of brucellosis control programme in an endemic area of the Middle East
Authors: HEGAZY Y. M. , RIDLER A. L. , GUITIAN F. J. 
Published: March 2009

SUMMARYBrucellosis is an important zoonosis in Middle Eastern countries. In this study we assessed the extent of the application of planned official brucellosis control programmes in Kafr El Sheikh governorate, Egypt and we used a stochastic simulation model to assess the probable impact of changes to the official control strategy on the dynamics of small-ruminant brucellosis. Our results show that <7% of female livestock were tested in any given year in the study area and that quarantine was not consistently applied to infected herds. Simulation results revealed the inability of the applied control measures to reduce the prevalence of small-ruminant brucellosis. Given our assumptions, the intensity with which infected animals are removed under the actual levels of implementation of test-and-slaughter programmes would permit brucellosis to remain endemic at a level >8% of the sheep and goat population.
New reports of Australian cutaneous leishmaniasis in Northern Australian macropods
Authors: DOUGALL A. , SHILTON C. , LOW CHOY J. , ALEXANDER B. , WALTON S. 
Published: March 2009

SUMMARYCutaneous leishmaniasis caused by various species of Leishmania is a significant zoonotic disease in many parts of the world. We describe the first cases of Australian cutaneous leishmaniasis in eight northern wallaroos, one black wallaroo and two agile wallabies from the Northern Territory of Australia. Diagnosis was made through a combination of gross appearance of lesions, cytology, histology, direct culture, serology and a species-specific real-time PCR. The causative organism was found to be the same unique species of Leishmania previously identified in red kangaroos. These clinical findings provide further evidence for the continuous transmission of the Australian Leishmania species and its presence highlights the importance of continued monitoring and research into the life-cycle of this parasite.
Predicate transformers for extended probability and non-determinism
Authors: KEIMEL KLAUS , PLOTKIN GORDON D. 
Published: March 2009

We investigate laws for predicate transformers for the combination of non-deterministic choice and (extended) probabilistic choice, where predicates are taken to be functions to the extended non-negative reals, or to closed intervals of such reals. These predicate transformers correspond to state transformers, which are functions to conical powerdomains, which are the appropriate powerdomains for the combined forms of non-determinism. As with standard powerdomains for non-deterministic choice, these come in three flavours – lower, upper and (order-)convex – so there are also three kinds of predicate transformers. In order to make the connection, the powerdomains are first characterised in terms of relevant classes of functionals.Much of the development is carried out at an abstract level, a kind of domain-theoretic functional analysis: one considers d-cones, which are dcpos equipped with a module structure over the non-negative extended reals, in place of topological vector spaces. Such a development still needs to be carried out for probabilistic choice per se; it would presumably be necessary to work with a notion of convex space rather than a cone.
Cross‐talk between the VEGF‐A and HGF signalling pathways in endothelial cells
Authors: Sulpice Eric , Ding Shunli , Muscatelli‐Groux Béatrice , Bergé Mathieu , Han Zhong Chao , Plouet Jean , Tobelem Gérard , Merkulova‐Rainon Tatyana 
Published: March 2009

Background information. Endothelial cells play a major role in angiogenesis, the process by which new blood vessels arise from a pre‐existing vascular bed. VEGF‐A (vascular endothelial growth factor‐A) is a key regulator of angiogenesis during both development and in adults. HGF (hepatocyte growth factor) is a pleiotropic cytokine that may promote VEGF‐A‐driven angiogenesis, although the signalling mechanisms underlying this co‐operation are not completely understood.Results. We analysed the effects of the combination of VEGF‐A and HGF on the activation of VEGFR‐2 (VEGF receptor‐2) and c‐met receptors, and on the stimulation of downstream signalling pathways in endothelial cells. We found that VEGFR‐2 and c‐met do not physically associate and do not transphosphorylate each other, suggesting that co‐operation involves signalling events more distal from receptor activation. We demonstrate that the VEGF isoform VEGF‐A165and HGF stimulate a similar set of MAPKs (mitogen‐activated protein kinases), although the kinetics and strengths of the activation differ depending on the growth factor and pathway. An enhanced activation of the signalling was observed when endothelial cells were stimulated by the combination of VEGF‐A165and HGF. Moreover, the combination of VEGF‐A and HGF results in a statistically significant synergistic activation of ERK1/2 (extracellular‐signal‐regulated kinase 1/2) and p38 kinases. We demonstrated that VEGF‐A165and HGF activate FAK (focal adhesion kinase) with different kinetics and stimulate the recruitment of phosphorylated FAK to different subsets of focal adhesions. VEGF‐A165and HGF regulate distinct morphogenic aspects of the cytoskeletal remodelling that are associated with the preferential activation of Rho or Rac respectively, and induce structurally distinct vascular‐like patternsin vitroin a Rho‐ or Rac‐dependent manner.Conclusions. Under angiogenic conditions, combining VEGF‐A with HGF can promote neovascularization by enhancing intracellular signalling and allowing more finely regulated control of the signalling molecules involved in the regulation of the cytoskeleton and cellular migration and morphogenesis.
Why do speech and language therapists stay in, leave and (sometimes) return to the National Health Service (NHS)?
Authors: Loan‐Clarke John , Arnold John , Coombs Crispin , Bosley Sara , Martin Caroline 
Published: March 2009

Background: Research into recruitment, retention and return of speech and language therapists in the National Health Service (NHS) is relatively limited, particularly in respect of understanding the factors that drive employment choice decisions.Aims: To identify what factors influence speech and language therapists working in the NHS to stay, and consider leaving, but not do so. To identify what features of the NHS and alternative employers influence speech and language therapists to leave the NHS. To identify why some speech and language therapists return to the NHS after working elsewhere.Methods & Procedures: A total of 516 male and female speech and language therapists, in three distinct groups (NHS stayers, leavers and returners) completed a questionnaire and gave responses to open‐ended questions regarding their perceptions of the NHS and other employers. Qualitative data analysis identified reasons why individuals stayed in, left or returned to the NHS employment, and what actions could be taken by management to facilitate retention and return.Outcomes & Results: Stayers value job and pension security; professional development opportunities; the work itself; and professional support. Leavers not involved in childcare left because of workload/pressure/stress; poor pay; and not being able to give good patient care. Returners returned because of flexible hours; work location; professional development; and pension provision. Stayers and returners primarily wish to see more staff in the NHS, whereas leavers would return if there were more flexibility in work arrangements. Returners were particularly hostile towards Agenda for Change.Conclusions & Implications: Whilst some preferences appear to require increased resources, others such as reducing bureaucracy and valuing professionals do not. The full impact of Agenda for Change has yet to be established. Predicted excess labour supply of allied health professionals and future structural changes present pressures but also possible opportunities for speech and language therapists.
Influence of gender and experience on the maximal instep soccer kick
Authors: Shan Gongbing 
Published: March 2009

AbstractAlthough soccer is a popular sport worldwide, little work has been done to satisfy the increasing demand for quantitative research on female players. As a result, training programmes for female players are often taken directly from their male counterparts, without appropriate adaptations. In this study, I examine the influence of gender and experience on the maximal instep soccer kick among male and female college students, with equal numbers of novice and skilled players. The data collection equipment consisted of a synchronized system with VICON™ 3D motion capture (nine high‐speed cameras, 120 Hz) and NORAXON wireless electromyography. Results showed that trained male and female players have different techniques. After a powerful kick, males naturally follow through with a jump to dissipate residual leg momentum, whereas females avoid this airborne phase; instead, they counteract the momentum with upper‐body flexions. Skilled male players displayed a more powerful quasi whip‐like movement of the kicking leg and more explosive muscle work patterns (higher maximum and faster increase rate of muscle tension) than skilled females. During training, practitioners should pay special attention to repetitive injuries in small muscles like the adductor magnus. The differences observed may be important for the development of training programmes.
“The science of doping” revisited: Fallacies of the current anti‐doping regime
Authors: Pitsch Werner 
Published: March 2009

AbstractBiomedical doping tests specifically, as well as doping test practises as a whole, have severe shortcomings which are based upon the fact that test procedures are in principle imperfect. With the help of Bayesian logic, it can be shown that the interpretation of doping test results is far from trivial with reference to individual athletes and single doping tests, but that these tests can reveal results which can be fairly dependable when it comes to estimating the prevalence of doping. Even if multiple tests are conducted and the samples are analyzed repeatedly for substance abuse, the need for positive A‐ and B‐sample analysis is a strong argument in assuming that positive‐tested athletes are guilty. However, this does not save an anti‐doping policy which relies on increasing numbers of doping tests all over the world from the problem of false positive tests, which becomes the more severe the better anti‐doping works in terms of lowering doping prevalence through deterrence. The considerations based on test theory and Bayesian logic lead to important ethical questioning of anti‐doping policies.
GS2: an efficiently computable measure of GO-based similarity of gene sets
Authors: Ruths Troy , Ruths Derek , Nakhleh Luay 
Published: March 2009

Abstract
Motivation: The growing availability of genome-scale datasets has attracted increasing attention to the development of computational methods for automated inference of functional similarities among genes and their products. One class of such methods measures the functional similarity of genes based on their distance in the Gene Ontology (GO). To measure the functional relatedness of a gene set, these measures consider every pair of genes in the set, and the average of all pairwise distances is calculated. However, as more data becomes available and gene sets used for analysis become larger, such pair-based calculation becomes prohibitive.
Results: In this article, we propose GS2 (GO-based similarity of gene sets), a novel GO-based measure of gene set similarity that is computable in linear time in the size of the gene set. The measure quantifies the similarity of the GO annotations among a set of genes by averaging the contribution of each gene's GO terms and their ancestor terms with respect to the GO vocabulary graph. To study the performance of our method, we compared our measure with an established pair-based measure when run on gene sets with varying degrees of functional similarities. In addition to a significant speed improvement, our method produced comparable similarity scores to the established method. Our method is available as a web-based tool and an open-source Python library.
Availability: The web-based tools and Python code are available at: http://bioserver.cs.rice.edu/gs2.
Contact: troy.ruths@rice.edu
Using multi-data hidden Markov models trained on local neighborhoods of protein structure to predict residue–residue contacts
Authors: Björkholm Patrik , Daniluk Pawel , Kryshtafovych Andriy , Fidelis Krzysztof , Andersson Robin , Hvidsten Torgeir R. 
Published: March 2009

Abstract
Motivation:Correct prediction of residue–residue contacts in proteins that lack good templates with known structure would take ab initio protein structure prediction a large step forward. The lack of correct contacts, and in particular long-range contacts, is considered the main reason why these methods often fail.
Results: We propose a novel hidden Markov model (HMM)-based method for predicting residue–residue contacts from protein sequences using as training data homologous sequences, predicted secondary structure and a library of local neighborhoods (local descriptors of protein structure). The library consists of recurring structural entities incorporating short-, medium- and long-range interactions and is general enough to reassemble the cores of nearly all proteins in the PDB. The method is tested on an external test set of 606 domains with no significant sequence similarity to the training set as well as 151 domains with SCOP folds not present in the training set. Considering the top 0.2 · L predictions (L=sequence length), our HMMs obtained an accuracy of 22.8% for long-range interactions in new fold targets, and an average accuracy of 28.6% for long-, medium- and short-range contacts. This is a significant performance increase over currently available methods when comparing against results published in the literature.
Availability: http://predictioncenter.org/Services/FragHMMent/
Contact: torgeir.hvidsten@plantphys.umu.se
Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.