bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical study of varenicline adsorptive behaviour and its interaction with DNA
Authors: Radulovic Valentina , Aleksic Mara , Kapetanovic Vera
Published: July 2012

The electrochemical behaviour of novel nicotinic ?4?2 subtype receptor
partial agonist varenicline (VAR) which is used for smoking cessation, was
investigated in Britton-Robinson buffers (pH 2.0-12.0) by cyclic,
differential pulse and square wave voltammetry at a hanging mercury drop
elctrode. The influence of pH, scan rate, concentration, accumulation
potential and time on peak current and potential suggested that in alkaline
media the redox process was adsorption controlled. Also, the experimental
value of surface coverage, G = 1.03?10-10 mol cm-2, was used to determine the
conditions when VAR was fully adsorbed at the electrode surface. Having in
mind potential high toxicity of VAR due to the presence of quinoxaline
structure, its interaction with DNA was postulated, and studied when both
compounds were in the adsorbed state at modified HMDE. Using adsorptive
transfer technique, the changes in potential and decrease in normalized peak
currents were observed. The estimated value of the ratio of surface-binding
constants indicated that the reduced form of VAR interacted with dsDNA more
strongly than the oxidized form. Subtle DNA damage under conditions of direct
DNA-VAR interaction at room temperature was observed. The proposed type of
interaction was an intercalation. This study used simple electroanalytical
methodology and showed the potential of DNA/HMDE biosensor for investigation
of genotoxic effects.
Portal hypertension caused by postoperative superior mesenteric arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Popovic Dusan , Spuran Milan , Davidovic Lazar , Alempijevic Tamara , Ugljesic Milenko , Banzic Igor , Jadranin Dragica , Kovacevic Nada , Perisic Mirjana , Colic Momcilo , Krstic Miodrag
Published: July 2012

Introduction. Arteriovenous fistula of the superior mesenteric blood vessels
is a rare complicaton in abdominal surgery. Case report. We presented a
49-year-old man with cramplike abdominal pain, abdominal distension and
weight loss symptoms, with a history of previous small bowel resection and
right colectomy, due to Crohn disease, 16 years ago. Clinical examination
revealed a paraumbilical pulsation with systolic murmur and thrill.
Ultrasonography and computed tomography revealed cystic dilatation of the
superior mesenteric vein, hepatomegaly and ascites. Upper endoscopy revealed
grade I esophageal varices with portal hypertensive gastropathy. The
diagnosis of arteriovenous fistula between superior mesenteric artery and
vein was confirmed by angiogram of the superior mesenteric vessels and
resection of the fistula was performed. Control examination after nine months
showed no signs of portal hypertension. Conclusion. Early diagnosis and
treatment of mesenteric blood vessel arteriovenous fistula prevents portal
hypertension development and its complications.
Tolosa-Hunt syndrome - diagnostic problem of painful ophthalmoplegia
Authors: Paovic Jelena , Paovic Predrag , Bojkovic Ivica , Nagulic Mirjana , Sredovic Vojislav
Published: July 2012

Background. Tolosa-Hunt syndrome (THS) is an uncommon disease caused by
non-specific inflammation of the cavernous sinus, superior orbital fissure
and the apex of the orbit. The disease is characterized by periorbital pain,
paresis of the bulbomotor and quick response to steroid treatment. The
orbital process may lead to optic nerve atrophy. According to the
International Headache Society Classification of 2004, the diagnostic
protocol includes magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and biopsy. Case reports.
We presented 46-year old male patient, with THS. The patient had unilateral
periorbital pain, inflammatory process in the cavernous sinus, the apex of
the orbit and the paranasal sinuses. Inflammatory process had spread into
the fascia of the bulbomotor and performed compression to the optic nerve,
causing paresis of the bulbomotor, protrusion of the eyeball and atrophy of
the optic nerve. Pulse doses of corticosteroids were effective. Regarding
the presented patient, diagnostic dilemmas arose from nonspecific sinusitis.
The initial ophthalmological diagnosis, based on periorbital pain, drop in
visual acuity and the narrow chamber angle was angular glaucoma, which
resulted in a delayed diagnosis of THS and the beginning of the treatment.
MRI and positive response to the treatment with corticosteroids were
relevant for making the diagnosis. Conclusion. According to the
International Headache Society Classification of 2004, THS is an entity that
occurs rarely, its etiopathogenesis is unknown, it is manifested clinically
by unilateral orbital pain associated with simple or multiple oculomotor
paralyses, which resolves spontaneously but may recur. MRI orbital
phlebography and biopsy are the recommended methods for making diagniosis.
In our patient MRI findings and positive response to the corticosteroide
treatment were relevant for making the diagnosis.
Assigning Students to Edit Wikipedia: Four Case Studies
Authors: Carver Brian W. , Davis Rochelle , Kelley Robin T. , Obar Jonathan A. , Davis Lianna L.
Published: July 2012

During the 2010–11 academic year, the Wikimedia Foundation, the nonprofit organization that supports Wikipedia, worked with professors at universities across the United States who were interested in using Wikipedia as a teaching tool in their classrooms through a pilot version of the Wikipedia Education Program. This article presents a case study of four professors' experiences: two professors at Georgetown University, one professor at Michigan State University, and one professor at the University of California at Berkeley. Each describe the ways they incorporated Wikipedia into their classroom and the learning points that emerged from the experiences. Together, they offer suggestions for other professors who are interested in participating in the Wikipedia Education Program.
Is There Life after Facebook? The Cyber Gulag Revisited and Debate Reloaded
Authors: Bajrektarevic Anis
Published: July 2012

Misled by a quick triumphalism of the social media, the international news agencies have confused the two: revolt and revolution. The past episodes of unrest started as a social, not a political, public revolt. Through the pain of sobriety, the protesters are learning that neither globalisation nor the McFB way of life is a shortcut to development; that free trade is not a virtue, but an instrument; that liberalism is not a state of mind but a well-doctrinated ideology; and, finally, that the social media networks are only a communication tool, not a replacement for independent critical thinking or for the collapsed cross-generational contract. Londoners, Greeks and New Yorkers are experiencing the same thing. How does the ‘Arab Spring’ correlate with the European Eurofrost, and with American Occupy Wall Street unrest? For almost ten years now, the youth in Europe has been repeatedly sending us a powerful message about the perceived collapse of the social contract. The cross-generational contract should be neither neglected nor built on the over-consumerist, disheartened and egotistic McFB way of life. Equally alienating and dangerously inflammatory is the collision of the entering youth generation (if/when deprived of the opportunity and handed over a lame hope) – through a religious or political radicalisation. In this world spanning Kantian hopes and Hobbesian fears, thus, the final question is: Is there life after FB? If so, how can we register our future claims?
Effect of Artificial Aging and Surface Treatment on Bond Strengths to Dental Zirconia
Authors: Perdigão J , Fernandes SD , Pinto AM , Oliveira FA
Published: July 2012

The objective of this project was to study the influence of artificial aging and surface treatment on the microtensile bond strengths (μTBS) between zirconia and a phosphate monomer–based self-adhesive cement. Thirty zirconia disks (IPS e.max ZirCAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) were randomly assigned to two aging regimens: AR, used as received, which served as a control, and AG, artificial aging to simulate low-temperature degradation. Subsequently, the disks of each aging regimen were assigned to three surface treatments: NT, no surface treatment; CO, surface silicatization with CoJet sand (3M ESPE); and ZP, zirconia surface treated with Z-Prime Plus (Bisco Inc). Thirty discs were made of Filtek Z250 (3M ESPE) composite resin and luted to the zirconia discs using RelyX Unicem (3M ESPE). The specimens were sectioned with a diamond blade in X and Y directions to obtain bonded beams with a cross-section of 1.0 ± 0.2 mm. The beams were tested in tensile mode in a universal testing machine at a speed of 0.5 mm/min to measure μTBS. Selected beams were selected for fractographic analysis under the SEM. Statistical analysis was carried out with two-way analysis of variance and Dunnett T3 post hoc test at a significance level of 95%. The mean μTBS for the three AR subgroups (AR-NT, AR-CO, and AR-ZP) were significantly higher than those of the corresponding AG groups (p<0.0001). Both AR-CO and AR-ZP resulted in statistically significant higher mean bond strengths than the group AR-NT (p<0.006 and p<0.0001, respectively). Both AG-CO and AG-ZP resulted in statistically significant higher mean bond strengths than the group AG-NT (both at p<0.0001). Overall, AG decreased mean μTBS. Under the SEM, mixed failures showed residual cement attached to the zirconia side of the beams. CO resulted in a characteristic roughness of the zirconia surface. AR-ZP was the only group for which the amount of residual cement occupied at least 50% of the interface in mixed failures.
Salivary Diagnostics
Authors: Wong DTW
Published: July 2012

Saliva is a noninvasive and accessible biofluid that permits early detection of oral and systemic diseases. Recent scientific and technologic advances have uncovered specific salivary biomarkers for a number of clinical conditions, including cancers, autoimmune diseases, and cardiovascular disorders. The availability of highly sensitive and high-throughput assays such as microarray, mass spectrometry, reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and nano-scale sensors that can measure proteins and nucleic acids are poising saliva as an emerging biofluid for translational and clinical applications. This paper will discuss development of salivary biomarkers for the detection of oral and systemic diseases and the translational application of these markers for clinical applications.
The Bears Family Projective Test: Evaluating Stories of Children with Emotional Difficulties
Authors: Iandolo Giuseppe , Esposito Gianluca , Venuti Paola
Published: July 2012

The aim of this study was to describe and analyze the storytelling of children with emotional difficulties. Forty children with emotional and relational difficulties (inhibited and impulsive), ages between 5.5 and 9.4 years old, were assessed by a multiaxial procedure and the Bears Family Projective Test. The Bears Family Test is a constructive-thematic-projective method based on an anthropomorphic family of bears that children can manipulate to tell a story. The stories of 40 children without emotional difficulties (matched by IQ, socio-economic status, and gender) and 322 typically developing children, aged between four and 10 years old, were used as a reference for comparisons. Results indicated that the stories of children with emotional difficulties showed many unsolved problematic events, unclear characters, negative relationships, and negative behaviors. Unlike the stories of children without emotional difficulties, positive contents didn't prevail over negative, and there wasn't a positive compensation for negative elements.
Recognition of Extraversion Level Based on Handwriting and Support Vector Machines
Authors: Górska Zuzanna , Janicki Artur
Published: July 2012

This study investigated whether it is possible to train a machine to discriminate levels of extraversion based on handwriting variables. Support vector machines (SVMs) were used as a learning algorithm. Handwriting of 883 people (404 men, 479 women) was examined. Extraversion was measured using the Polish version of the NEO-Five Factor Inventory. The handwriting samples were described by 48 variables. The support vector machines were separately trained and tested for each sex, using 10-fold cross-validation. Good recognition accuracy (around .7) was achieved for 10 handwriting variables, different for men and women. The results suggest the existence of a relationship between handwriting elements and extraversion.
High Level Swimming Performance and its Relation to Non-Specific Parameters: A Cross-Sectional Study on Maximum Handgrip Isometric Strength
Authors: Garrido Nuno D. , Silva António J. , Fernandes Ricardo J. , Barbosa Tiago M. , Costa Aldo M. , Marinho Daniela. , Marques Mário C.
Published: July 2012

The relationship between handgrip isometric strength and swimming performance was assessed in the four competitive swimming strokes in swimmers of different age groups and of both sexes. 78 national-level Portuguese swimmers (39 males, 39 females) were selected for this study. Grip strength, previously used as a marker of overall strength to predict future swimming performance, was measured using a hand dynamometer. The best competitive time at 100 and 200 m in all four swimming strokes were converted into 2010 FINA points. Non-parametric tests were used to evaluate differences between groups. Pearson product-moment correlations were computed to verify the association between variables. Handgrip maximum isometric strength was significantly correlated with swimming performance, particularly among female swimmers. Among female age group swimmers, the relationship between handgrip and 100-m freestyle was significant. Handgrip isometric strength seems to be related to swimming performance, especially to 100-m freestyle and in female swimmers. For all other distances and strokes, technique and training probably are more influential than semi-hereditary strength markers such as grip strength.
Use of Electronic Games by Young Children and Fundamental Movement Skills?
Authors: Barnett Lisa M. , Hinkley Trina , Okely Anthony D. , Hesket Kylie , Salmon Jo
Published: July 2012

This study investigated associations between pre-school children's time spent playing electronic games and their fundamental movement skills. In 2009, 53 children had physical activity (Actigraph accelerometer counts per minute), parent proxy-report of child's time in interactive and non-interactive electronic games (min./week), and movement skill (Test of Gross Motor Development–2) assessed. Hierarchical linear regression, adjusting for age (range = 3–6 years), sex (Step 1), and physical activity (cpm; M = 687, SD = 175.42; Step 2), examined the relationship between time in (a) non-interactive and (b) interactive electronic games and locomotor and object control skill. More than half (59%, n = 31) of the children were female. Adjusted time in interactive game use was associated with object control but not locomotor skill. Adjusted time in non-interactive game use had no association with object control or locomotor skill. Greater time spent playing interactive electronic games is associated with higher object control skill proficiency in these young children. Longitudinal and experimental research is required to determine if playing these games improves object control skills or if children with greater object control skill proficiency prefer and play these games.
Writing and Reading Training Effects on Font Type and Size Preferences by Students with Low Vision
Authors: Uysa Songül Atasavun , Düger Tülin
Published: July 2012

The effect of writing and reading training on preferred font type and size in low-vision students was evaluated in 35 children. An ophthalmologist confirmed low vision according to ICD-10–CM. Children identified the font type and size they could best read. The writing subtest of the Jebsen–Taylor Hand Function Test, read in 1 min., and legibility as measured by the number of readable written letters were used in evaluating the children. A writing and reading treatment program was conducted, beginning with the child's preferred font type and size, for 3 months, 2 days per week, for 45 min. per day at the child's school. Before treatment, the most preferred font type was Verdana; after treatment, the preferred font type and size changed. Students had gained reading and writing speed after training, but their writing legibility was not significantly better. Training might affect the preferred font type and size of students with low vision. Surprisingly, serif and sans-serif fonts were preferred about equally after treatment.
A Prospective Genetic Marker of the Visual-Perception Disorder Meares-Irlen Syndrome
Authors: Loe Stephen J. , Watson Kenneth
Published: July 2012

Prior investigations of scotopic sensitivity or Meares-Irlen syndrome have identified several features also found in attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome, and a subtype of dyslexia in which visual recognition is the primary deficit. In particular, anomalies in lipid metabolism, including low essential fatty acid status and decreased serum cholesterol, have been identified in all three disorders. Genetic expression of the transporter molecule apolipoprotein B-100 (APOB) has been correlated with abnormal lipid metabolism, particularly in relation to levels of cholesterol. Cholesterol esters are important carriers of essential fatty acids entering the retina. The APOB gene coding for apolipoprotein B-100 is located on the short arm of Chromosome 2, and closely neighbours a gene (DYX3) known to confer susceptibility to dyslexia. The APOB locus is also recognised as being one of the most highly polymorphic regions of the human genome, and thus provides a promising tool for genetic researchers. In this pilot study, certain allelic variants of the APOB gene were more common in participants diagnosed with Meares–Irlen syndrome than in individuals without the condition. This study appears to be a first in which a condition known to cause reading difficulties has been associated with the APOB gene.
How Distance Mitigates Perceived Threat at 30–90 M
Authors: Stamps Arthur E.
Published: July 2012

It has previously been shown that distance mitigates the extent to which non-verbal cues such as direction of eye gaze, facial expression, sex, and posture communicate threat. However, the range of distances investigated has been limited to 45m or less. Theory predicts that there should be effects at distances up to 100m. This article reports findings on how strongly sex and posture communicate threat at ranges up to 90m. Results suggest that the distance where non-verbal cues cease to communicate threat is in the range of 30–90 m.
Contraction Intensity and Velocity on Vastus Lateralis Semg Power Spectrum and Amplitude
Authors: Miller John , Croce Ronald , Smith Wayne , Horvat Michael
Published: July 2012

Effect of contraction intensity [100%, 75%, 50%, and 25% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC)] and movement velocity [0° (isometric)], 50°, 100°, 200°, and 400°/sec. [isovelocities]) on root mean square amplitude (SEMG–RMS) and median frequency power spectrum (SEMG–MNF) of vastus lateralis (VL) surface electromyography was investigated with ten healthy female university students. Peak torque (PT), mean torque (MT), SEMG–MNF, and SEMG–RMS, analyzed using separate repeated-measures analyses of variance ( p ≤ .05), indicated: (1) an inverse relation between PT and MT and movement velocity, (2) greater SEMG–MNF values during all isovelocity conditions compared with isometric conditions, with highest values occurring at 50°/sec. and at 100% and 75% MVC, and (3) at all contraction intensities SEMG–RMS values were higher during dynamic movements than isometric movements and highest at 200° / sec. Isovelocity contractions were inferred to facilitate a greater recruitment of fast-twitch fibers (via increased SEMG–MNF), which was intensified at 50°/sec, whereas greater overall muscle activation was found at 200° / sec.
Effects of Arm Stiffness and Muscle Effort on Position Reproduction Error in the Horizontal Plane
Authors: Itaguchi Yoshihiro , Fukuzawa Kazuyoshi
Published: July 2012

The present study investigated the effects of two-dimensional arm stiffness and muscle effort required to maintain horizontal arm posture on position-reproduction errors. 12 participants performed a multi-joint position-reproduction task without visual feedback. They were required to indicate a proprioceptively remembered target position with the fingertip of the ipsilateral arm. The results showed that both constant and variable errors were larger in the direction of lower stiffness rather than in the direction of higher stiffness in the stiffness ellipse. In the condition where participants' arm was supported during position perception, variable error was larger than when it was vertically unsupported. These results suggested that proprioceptive accuracy and precision are positively related to the axis length of elliptically represented arm stiffness, and that exerting muscle effort to maintain the arm against the force of gravity may be supportive of human proprioceptive mechanisms.
Effects of Computer-Based Immediate Feedback on Foreign Language Listening Comprehension and Test-Associated Anxiety
Authors: Lee Shu-Ping , Su Hui-Kai , Lee Shin-Da
Published: July 2012

This study investigated the effects of immediate feedback on computer-based foreign language listening comprehension tests and on intrapersonal test-associated anxiety in 72 English major college students at a Taiwanese University. Foreign language listening comprehension of computer-based tests designed by MOODLE,3 a dynamic e-learning environment, with or without immediate feedback together with the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were tested and repeated after one week. The analysis indicated that immediate feedback during testing caused significantly higher anxiety and resulted in significantly higher listening scores than in the control group, which had no feedback. However, repeated feedback did not affect the test anxiety and listening scores. Computer-based immediate feedback did not lower debilitating effects of anxiety but enhanced students' intrapersonal eustress-like anxiety and probably improved their attention during listening tests. Computer-based tests with immediate feedback might help foreign language learners to increase attention in foreign language listening comprehension.
A Case of Uncontrolled Asthma
Authors: Aydin Ömür , Yüksel Cabir , Heper Aylin Okçu , Yildiz Oya , Kavukçu Şevket , Misirligil Zeynep
Published: July 2012

A 48-year-old female patient with uncontrolled severe asthma was referred to our hospital for anti-IgE therapy. She was suffering with persistent wheezing and dyspnea after a severe asthma attack that had taken place 5 months previously. Her asthma had not been controlled with adequate asthma treatment, including budesonide at 320 μg + formoterol at 9 μg b.i.d. combination, montelukast at 10 mg/day, and oral steroids (30–40 mg/day of prednisolone), during this period. She was hospitalized for evaluation for anti-IgE therapy. Chest radiography revealed a left-sided hilar opacity. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed and showed an endobronchial lesion obstructing the left lower bronchus lumen. Computed tomography also revealed a nodular lesion at the same location. The patient underwent left lower lobectomy and mediastinal lymph node dissection. Pathological examination concluded the diagnosis of typical carcinoid tumor. After surgery, her symptoms disappeared and she has had no recurrence. In conclusion, a diagnosis of severe asthma requires confirmation of asthma. Uncontrolled symptoms that linger despite aggressive therapy warrant evaluation to rule out other etiologies, such as a carcinoid tumor, before selecting new treatment options.
Role of ADAM33 Gene and Associated Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Asthma
Authors: Sharma Neeraj , Tripathi Priya , Awasthi Shally
Published: July 2012

Asthma is a multifactorial disorder, primarily resulting from interactions between genetic and environmental factors. ADAM33 gene (located on chromosome 20p13) has been reported to play an important role in asthma. This review article is intended to include all of the publications, to date, which have assessed the association of ADAM33 gene polymorphisms as well as have shown the role of ADAM33 gene in airway remodeling and their expression with asthma. A PubMed search was performed for studies published between 1990 and 2010. The terms “ADAM33,” “ADAM33 gene and asthma,” and “ADAM33 gene polymorphisms” were used as search criteria. Based on available literature we can only speculate its role in the morphogenesis and functions of the lung. Fourteen studies conducted in different populations were found showing an association of ADAM33 gene polymorphisms with asthma. However, none of the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of ADAM33 gene had found association with asthma across all ethnic groups. Because higher expression of ADAM33 is found in the fibroblast and smooth muscle cells of the lung, over- or underexpression of ADAM33 gene may result in alterations in airway remodeling and repair processes. However, no SNP of ADAM33 gene showed significant associations with asthma across all ethnic groups; the causative polymorphism, if any, still has to be identified.
Adult seafood allergy in the Texas Medical Center: A 13-year experience
Authors: Khan Faria , Orson Frank , Ogawa Yoshiko , Parker Crystal , Davis Carla McGuire
Published: July 2012

There is a paucity of data regarding prevalence and characteristics of adult seafood allergy in United States cohorts. This study was designed to determine the characteristics of patient-reported seafood allergy in a large allergy referral adult population. Retrospective analysis was performed of laboratory and clinical characteristics of seafood-allergic patients in three allergy clinics in the Texas Medical Center between January 1,1997 and January 30,2010. Of 5162 patients seen in this adult allergy referral population, 159 had physician-diagnosed seafood allergy with an average age of diagnosis of 50.2 (18–81 years) years. Shellfish allergy (59.1%) was more frequent than fish allergy (13.8%). Crustacean allergy (82.6%) was more frequent than mollusk allergy (7.2%). Shrimp (72.5%), crab (34.8%), and lobster (17.4%) were the most common shellfish allergies and tuna (28.6%), catfish (23.8%), and salmon (23.8%) were the most common fish allergies. One-third of seafood-allergic patients reported reactions to more than one seafood. Shellfish-allergic adults were more likely to experience respiratory symptoms than fish-allergic adults (p < 0.05). The likelihood of having anaphylaxis (32%) was not statistically different between shellfish- and fish-allergic subjects. Severe reactions were 12.9 times more likely to occur within the 1st hour of ingestion compared with nonsevere reactions (p < 0.005). The percentage of seafood allergy in this adult allergy referral population was 3.08%.
Postoperative Cephazolin Usage is Sufficient for Preventing Infection after Septoplasty Procedure
Authors: Erkul Evren , Babayigit Mustafa , Kuduban Ozan
Published: July 2012

The use of antibiotics in septoplasty is a common practice among most ear, nose, and throat doctors; however, there are few studies proving the efficacy, which is considered as unnecessary by some authors. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effect of two different kinds of antimicrobial agent on efficacy and safety after septoplasty surgery and to show that use of cephazolin, 1.0 g, postoperatively, might be sufficient for preventing infection after septoplasty procedure. Patients were randomly divided into two groups with a simple randomization method. The first group of 80 patients received cephazolin, 1.0 g i.v., once postoperatively and the second group of 80 patients received amoxicillin–clavulanate orally for 7 days postoperatively (1000 mg). An early and late postoperative questionnaire and nasal endoscopy evaluation was performed and patients were followed up in the outpatient service to investigate the presence of complications. There was no significant difference in postoperative pain between groups A and B, using visual analog scale scores at the 1st postoperative day. There were no differences related to the amount of purulent discharge found at the lower margin of the inferior turbinate through nasal endoscopy performed on the 14th day postoperatively. There were no statistical significances among groups for complications rates and postoperative endoscopic evaluation. Septoplasties are considered potentially contaminated surgeries, and cephazolin, 1.0 g i.v., given once postoperatively is enough to prevent potential complications with its easy and effective use.
Quantum Dynamical Entropies and Gács Algorithmic Entropy
Authors: Benatti Fabio
Published: July 2012

Several quantum dynamical entropies have been proposed that extend the classical Kolmogorov–Sinai (dynamical) entropy. The same scenario appears in relation to the extension of algorithmic complexity theory to the quantum realm. A theorem of Brudno establishes that the complexity per unit time step along typical trajectories of a classical ergodic system equals the KS-entropy. In the following, we establish a similar relation between the Connes–Narnhofer–Thirring quantum dynamical entropy for the shift on quantum spin chains and the Gács algorithmic entropy. We further provide, for the same system, a weaker linkage between the latter algorithmic complexity and a different quantum dynamical entropy proposed by Alicki and Fannes.
Reactivation System for Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel-Cells
Authors: Restrepo Carlos , Avino Oriol , Calvente Javier , Romero Alfonso , Milanovic Miro , Giral Roberto
Published: July 2012

In recent years, Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) have been the focus of very intensive researches. Manufacturers of these alternative power sources propose a rejuvenation sequence after the FC has been operating at high power for a certain period of time. These rejuvenation methods could be not appropriate for the reactivation of the FC when it has been out of operation for a long period of time or after it has been repaired. Since the developed reactivation system monitors temperature, current, and the cell voltages of the stack, it could be also useful for the diagnostic and repairing processes. The limited number of published contributions suggests that systems developing reactivation techniques are an open research field. In this paper, an automated system for reactivating PEMFCs and results of experimental testing are presented.
Physical Activity Associated with Public Transport Use—A Review and Modelling of Potential Benefits
Authors: Rissel Chris , Curac Nada , Greenaway Mark , Bauman Adrian
Published: July 2012

Active travel, particularly walking and cycling, has been recommended because of the health benefits associated with increased physical activity. Use of public transport generally involves some walking to bus stops or train stations. This paper is a systematic review of how much time is spent in physical activity among adults using public transport. It also explores the potential effect on the population level of physical activity if inactive adults in NSW, Australia, increased their walking through increased use of public transport. Of 1,733 articles, 27 met the search criteria, and nine reported on absolute measures of physical activity associated with public transport. A further 18 papers reported on factors associated with physical activity as part of public transport use. A range of 8–33 additional minutes of walking was identified from this systematic search as being attributable to public transport use. Using “bootstrapping” statistical modelling, if 20% of all inactive adults increased their walking by only 16 minutes a day for five days a week, we predict there would be a substantial 6.97% increase in the proportion of the adult population considered “sufficiently active”. More minutes walked per day, or a greater uptake of public transport by inactive adults would likely lead to significantly greater increases in the adult population considered sufficiently active.
Using Bioinformatic Approaches to Identify Pathways Targeted by Human Leukemogens
Authors: Thomas Reuben , Phuong Jimmy , McHale Cliona M. , Zhang Luoping
Published: July 2012

We have applied bioinformatic approaches to identify pathways common to chemical leukemogens and to determine whether leukemogens could be distinguished from non-leukemogenic carcinogens. From all known and probable carcinogens classified by IARC and NTP, we identified 35 carcinogens that were associated with leukemia risk in human studies and 16 non-leukemogenic carcinogens. Using data on gene/protein targets available in the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) for 29 of the leukemogens and 11 of the non-leukemogenic carcinogens, we analyzed for enrichment of all 250 human biochemical pathways in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database. The top pathways targeted by the leukemogens included metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, glutathione metabolism, neurotrophin signaling pathway, apoptosis, MAPK signaling, Toll-like receptor signaling and various cancer pathways. The 29 leukemogens formed 18 distinct clusters comprising 1 to 3 chemicals that did not correlate with known mechanism of action or with structural similarity as determined by 2D Tanimoto coefficients in the PubChem database. Unsupervised clustering and one-class support vector machines, based on the pathway data, were unable to distinguish the 29 leukemogens from 11 non-leukemogenic known and probable IARC carcinogens. However, using two-class random forests to estimate leukemogen and non-leukemogen patterns, we estimated a 76% chance of distinguishing a random leukemogen/non-leukemogen pair from each other.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Oxidative Stress Promote Apoptotic Cell Death in the Striatum via Cytochrome c/ Caspase-3 Signaling Cascade Following Chronic Rotenone Intoxication in Rats
Authors: Lin Tsu-Kung , Cheng Ching-Hsiao , Chen Shang-Der , Liou Chia-Wei , Huang Chi-Ren , Chuang Yao-Chung
Published: July 2012

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder marked by nigrostriatal dopaminergic degeneration. Evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction may be linked to PD through a variety of different pathways, including free-radical generation and dysfunction of the mitochondrial Complex I activity. In Lewis rats, chronic systemic administration of a specific mitochondrial Complex I inhibitor, rotenone (3 mg/kg/day) produced parkinsonism-like symptoms. Increased oxidized proteins and peroxynitrite, and mitochondrial or cytosol translocation of Bim, Bax or cytochrome c in the striatum was observed after 2–4 weeks of rotenone infusion. After 28 days of systemic rotenone exposure, imunohistochemical staining for tyrosine hydroxylase indicated nigrostriatal dopaminergic neuronal cell degeneration. Characteristic histochemical (TUNEL or activated caspase-3 staining) or ultrastructural (electron microscopy) features of apoptotic cell death were present in the striatal neuronal cell after chronic rotenone intoxication. We conclude that chronic rotenone intoxication may enhance oxidative and nitrosative stress that induces mitochondrial dysfunction and ultrastructural damage, resulting in translocation of Bim and Bax from cytosol to mitochondria that contributes to apoptotic cell death in the striatum via cytochrome c/caspase-3 signaling cascade.
Enzymatic Reduction of 9-Methoxytariacuripyrone by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Its Antimycobacterial Activity
Authors: Alvarez-Fitz Patricia , Alvarez Laura , Marquina Silvia , Luna-Herrera Julieta , Navarro-García Víctor Manuel
Published: July 2012

Biotransformation processes have been successfully utilized to obtain products of pharmaceutical, chemical, food, and agricultural interest, which are difficult to obtain by classic chemical methods. The compound with antituberculous activity, 9-methoxy-tariacuripyrone (1), isolated from Aristolochia brevipes, was submitted to biotransformation with the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae under culture, yielding 5-amino-9-methoxy-3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[h]chromen-2-one (2). The structure of 2 was elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analyses. The results mainly show the reduction of the double bond and the nitro group of compound 1. Metabolite 2 demonstrated an increase in anti-tuberculous activity (MIC = 3.12 µg/mL) against the drug-sensitive Mycobacterium tuberculosis (H37Rv) strain, with respect to that shown by 1.
Synthesis, Tautomeric Structure and Antimicrobial Activity of 3-Arylhydrazono-4-phenyl-[1,2,4]-triazepino[2,3-a]quinazoline-2,7(1H)-diones
Authors: Farghaly Thoraya Abdel Reheem , Edrees Mastoura Mohamed , Abdelnabi Mosselhi Mosselhi
Published: July 2012

A simple strategy for the synthesis of the hitherto unreported 3-arylazo-4-phenyl- [1,2,4]triazepino[2,3-a]quinazoline-2,7(1H)-diones is described. Spectral data indicated that the studied compounds exist predominantly in the hydrazone tautomeric form. The antimicrobial activity of the newly synthesized compounds was also evaluated. The results indicated that some of these compounds have moderate activity towards bacteria.
Road Target Search and Tracking with Gimballed Vision Sensor on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Skoglar Per , Orguner Umut , Törnqvist David , Gustafsson Fredrik
Published: July 2012

This article considers a sensor management problem where a number of road bounded vehicles are monitored by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with a gimballed vision sensor. The problem is to keep track of all discovered targets and simultaneously search for new targets by controlling the pointing direction of the vision sensor and the motion of the UAV. A planner based on a state-machine is proposed with three different modes; target tracking, known target search, and new target search. A high-level decision maker chooses among these sub-tasks to obtain an overall situational awareness. A utility measure for evaluating the combined search and target tracking performance is also proposed. By using this measure it is possible to evaluate and compare the rewards of updating known targets versus searching for new targets in the same framework. The targets are assumed to be road bounded and the road network information is used both to improve the tracking and sensor management performance. The tracking and search are based on flexible target density representations provided by particle mixtures and deterministic grids.
Study on Elastic Helical TDR Sensing Cable for Distributed Deformation Detection
Authors: Tong Renyuan , Li Ming , Li Qing
Published: July 2012

In order to detect distributed ground surface deformation, an elastic helical structure Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) sensing cable is shown in this paper. This special sensing cable consists of three parts: a silicone rubber rope in the center; a couple of parallel wires coiling around the rope; a silicone rubber pipe covering the sensing cable. By analyzing the relationship between the impedance and the structure of the sensing cable, the impedance model shows that the sensing cable impedance will increase when the cable is stretched. This specific characteristic is verified in the cable stretching experiment which is the base of TDR sensing technology. The TDR experiment shows that a positive reflected signal is created at the stretching deformation point on the sensing cable. The results show that the deformation section length and the stretching elongation will both affect the amplitude of the reflected signal. Finally, the deformation locating experiments show that the sensing cable can accurately detect the deformation point position on the sensing cable.
La double genèse franco-britannique du recrutement au mérite : les concours et l'open competition
Authors: Dreyfus Françoise
Published: July 2012

Résumé Dès la fin du XVIII e siècle, le recrutement dans les emplois administratifs fait l’objet de critiques politiques en France et en Grande Bretagne. Pour les réformateurs, le mérite associé au critère de compétence devait remplacer la faveur des gouvernants afin de professionnaliser la fonction publique confrontée à des tâches de plus en plus complexes. Les débats sur les concours permettant de vérifier les aptitudes des postulants, entamés dans les années 1850, ne déboucheront qu’à la fin du siècle sur des réformes instituant ce procédé et limitant l’emprise politique sur l’accès à la fonction publique.
Deux siècles de principe d'égale admissibilité aux emplois publics
Authors: Edel Frédéric
Published: July 2012

Résumé La présente étude a pour objet de retracer l’histoire juridique du principe de l’égale admissibilité aux emplois publics affirmé par l’article 6 de la Déclaration des droits de l’homme et du citoyen du 26 août 1789 jusqu’à aujourd’hui, particulièrement dans ses tout récents développements. Elle examine comment ce principe a été interprété, quelles en ont été les principales implications quant aux modalités de recrutement dans la fonction publique et quelles ont été les garanties qui ont été apportées pour rendre effective cette célèbre promesse révolutionnaire d’égalité.
Le droit français des concours entre permanence et évolution
Authors: Espagno Delphine
Published: July 2012

Résumé Les concours administratifs constituent une étape nécessaire au recrutement dans la fonction publique française. Soumis à de nombreux principes juridiques, l’organisation et le déroulement des concours supposent le respect des règles de droit sous l’œil attentif de la juridiction administrative. La modernisation des concours administratifs, liée à l’évolution de la fonction publique et de ses modes de recrutement, entraîne une adaptation des épreuves et des règles applicables en la matière. Parfois sévèrement remis en cause, le concours demeure toutefois le meilleur outil de recrutement dans la fonction publique
Les épreuves de culture générale du concours de l'ENA, entre discours légitime et mémoire institutionnelle
Authors: Oger Claire
Published: July 2012

Résumé Cet article analyse le discours produit, au sujet des épreuves de culture générale, dans les rapports annuels des jurys de l'ENA au cours des années 2000. En dépit de quelques infléchissements, il apparaît marqué par une forte continuité avec les deux décennies qui précèdent et, au-delà, avec le projet des fondateurs de l'École. Ce travail suggère que ces épreuves constituent le lieu privilégié où s'entretiennent et se renforcent les traits d'une culture commune : celle-ci pourrait constituer un pivot de stabilité au regard des réformes et des transformations qui affectent par ailleurs l'action publique.
Recruter les professeurs d'université : le cas du concours d'agrégation du supérieur en sciences de gestion
Authors: Pigeyre Frédérique , Sabatier Mareva
Published: July 2012

Résumé Ce texte interroge les vertus et les limites des concours nationaux de recrutement dans la haute fonction publique, valorisés comme garantissant à la fois l’intérêt général, en sélectionnant les plus qualifiés, et l’intérêt particulier, en assurant un jugement sur le mérite. Nous étudions plus précisément le dispositif de recrutement des professeurs d’université. Historiquement issues du droit, l’économie, la science politique et les sciences de gestion sont des disciplines dotées d’un concours national d’agrégation du supérieur. La recherche menée porte sur les concours organisés en sciences de gestion depuis leur création en 1976 jusqu’au concours de 2007. Elle identifie les facteurs déterminants de la réussite à ces concours. En réalisant des analyses économétriques qui donnent des effets toutes choses égales par ailleurs, elle met en évidence un impact significatif de la production scientifique, mais aussi un effet de réseau, quantitativement plus important que celui des publications. Ces résultats interrogent donc le caractère plus ou moins équitable de ces concours.
L'évolution des recrutements dans la fonction publique d'État : données d'actualité
Authors: Desforges Corinne
Published: July 2012

Résumé L'évolution des recrutements dans la fonction publique d’État est, depuis plusieurs années, autant quantitative que qualitative. D’un côté, les recrutements y ont fortement diminué, de près de 50 %, et, de l’autre, la sélectivité y a été accrue de manière significative tant pour les concours externes que les concours internes. Un mouvement de réforme a été lancé modifiant, tout à la fois, l’organisation des concours vers davantage de mutualisation, et les méthodes de recrutement vers davantage de professionnalisation et de démocratisation.
Les concours territoriaux : à l'ombre de l'État, entre les mains des élus ou aux avant-postes de la modernisation ?
Authors: Biland Émilie
Published: July 2012

Résumé Étudiant les différents modèles de concours qui ont prévalu dans la fonction publique territoriale française depuis les années 1970, cet article examine les modalités et les limites de la diffusion du modèle étatique dans un segment de l’emploi public à la fois hétérogène et davantage politisé. La plasticité et le caractère subsidiaire des concours dans la fonction publique territoriale apparaissent désormais, non plus comme un écart à la norme, mais comme une source d’inspiration possible pour les réformateurs critiques de l’administration wébérienne.
Le recrutement dans les administrations publiques et le principe du concours dans le système juridique italien
Authors: Cavallo Perin Roberto , Gagliardi Barbara
Published: July 2012

Résumé Le système juridique italien consacre expressément le principe du concours pour le recrutement dans la fonction publique au niveau constitutionnel. Mais la Constitution elle-même permet de faire exception à ce principe dans les cas prévus par la loi, pourvu que les exceptions soient raisonnables et justifiées par des exigences d’intérêt public spécifiques et extraordinaires. L’obligation d’utiliser le concours a été récemment imposée aux sociétés publiques in house . Cette réforme assure l’effectivité du principe de libre circulation des travailleurs européens à l’égard de ces sociétés en raison de leur caractère substantiellement public. Le principe du concours assure une application parfaite du principe de libre circulation dans le cadre du recrutement des fonctionnaires publics, puisqu’il garantit le droit à une prise en compte homogène des titres et expériences professionnelles.
Présider un jury de concours : enjeux et perspectives
Authors: Lombard Martine
Published: July 2012

Résumé Tout en s’inscrivant dans un cadre défini autant par la tradition que par les textes, la présidence des jurys de concours relève d’une gestion originale des ressources humaines en ce qu’elle est à repenser chaque année compte tenu de l’espace de liberté des jurys. Il est d’autant plus important pour ceux-ci de réfléchir aux objectifs (quels recrutements pour quels besoins ?) comme aux moyens susceptibles de les atteindre au mieux, en veillant à préserver leur principal atout : la collégialité.
L'État à l'épreuve du libéralisme : les entourages du pouvoir exécutif de 1974 à 2012
Authors: Rouban Luc
Published: July 2012

Résumé L’étude prosopographique des entourages du pouvoir exécutif français entre 1974 et 2012 permet de mesurer l’effet du libéralisme politique sur les élites de l’État. Le présent article compare notamment la présidence de Nicolas Sarkozy à celles qui l’ont précédée. Elle montre, tout d’abord, que le libéralisme politique de sa présidence n’a pas mis fin au monopole de la haute fonction publique ni à celui des grands corps administratifs sur ces entourages. Le renouvellement ne concerne donc pas les institutions. En revanche, les profils des hauts fonctionnaires qui accèdent aux sommets de l’État ont changé radicalement si on les compare notamment à ceux qui existaient lors du mandat de Valéry Giscard d’Estaing. Les membres des entourages passent désormais bien plus souvent par les entreprises privées, bien moins par les cabinets ministériels et sont bien plus engagés dans des activités politiques. Ensuite, l’étude montre qu’une dissociation et une hiérarchisation se sont produites entre les divers entourages.