bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A crucial role for polysialic acid in developmental interneuron migration and the establishment of interneuron densities in the mouse prefrontal cortex
Authors: Kröcher Tim , Röckle Iris , Diederichs Ute , Weinhold Birgit , Burkhardt Hannelore , Yanagawa Yuchio , Gerardy-Schahn Rita , Hildebrandt Herbert
Published: July 2014

Polysialic acid (polySia) is a unique glycan modification of the neural cell adhesion molecule NCAM and a major determinant of brain development. Polysialylation of NCAM is implemented by the two polysialyltransferases (polySTs) ST8SIA2 and ST8SIA4. Dysregulation of the polySia-NCAM system and variation in ST8SIA2 has been linked to schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders. Here, we show reduced interneuron densities in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of mice with either partial or complete loss of polySia synthesizing capacity by ablation of St8sia2, St8sia4, or both. Cells positive for parvalbumin and perineuronal nets as well as somatostatin-positive cells were reduced in the mPFC of all polyST-deficient lines, whereas calretinin-positive cells and the parvalbumin-negative fraction of calbindin-positive cells were unaffected. Reduced interneuron numbers were corroborated by analyzing polyST-deficient GAD67-GFP knock-in mice. The accumulation of precursors in the ganglionic eminences and reduced numbers of tangentially migrating interneurons in the pallium were observed in polyST-deficient embryos. Removal of polySia by endosialidase treatment of organotypic slice cultures led to decreased entry of GAD67-GFP-positive interneurons from the ganglionic eminences into the pallium. Moreover, the acute loss of polySia caused significant reductions in interneuron velocity and leading process length. Thus, attenuation of polySia interferes with the developmental migration of cortical interneurons and causes pathological changes in specific interneuron subtypes. This provides a possible link between genetic variation in polyST genes, neurodevelopmental alterations and interneuron dysfunction in neuropsychiatric disease.
Epidermal growth factor-induced C/EBPbeta participates in EMT by dampening miR-203 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Junxia , Shan Fabo , Xiong Gang , Chen Xuedan , Guan Xingying , Wang Ju-Ming , Wang Wen-Lin , Xu Xueqing , Bai Yun
Published: July 2014

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a developmental program, which is associated with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) progression and metastasis. Recently, C/EBPβ is reported to be an EMT inducer in cancer. However, the detailed molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here we report for the first time, that the truncated C/EBPβ LIP isoform was abnormally overexpressed and correlated with cancer metastasis in clinical specimens of human ESCC. Furthermore, we demonstrate that C/EBPβ LIP mediates epithelial growth factor (EGF) - induced EMT and increases migration and invasion of esophageal cancer cells dependent on a miR-203 inactivation. Finally, we identified miR-203 as a direct target of C/EBPβ LIP. Disruption of C/EBPβ LIP attenuated the EGF-mediated decrease in miR-203, whereas overexpression of C/EBPβ LIP alone markedly suppressed miR-203. In addition, we demonstrated that C/EBPβ LIP inhibited miR-203 transcription by directly interacting with a conserved distal regulatory element upstream of the miR-203 locus, and in doing so, orchestrated chromatin remodeling. In conclusion, our results have revealed a novel regulatory mechanism that involves C/EBPβ LIP-mediated down-regulation of miR-203, which plays a key role in EMT and metastasis.
An EMMPRIN/γ-catenin/Nm23 complex drives ATP production and actomyosin contractility at endothelial junctions
Authors: Moreno Vanessa , Gonzalo Pilar , Gómez-Escudero Jesús , Pollán Ángela , Acín-Pérez Rebeca , Breckenridge Mark , Yáñez-Mó María , Barreiro Olga , Orsenigo Fabrizio , Kadomatsu Kenji , Chen Christopher S. , Enríquez José A. , Dejana Elisabetta , Sánchez-Madrid Francisco , Arroyo Alicia G.
Published: July 2014

Cell-cell adhesions are important sites through which cells experience and resist forces. In endothelial cells, these forces regulate junction dynamics and determine endothelial barrier fitness. We identify the Ig superfamily member EMMPRIN as a coordinator of forces at endothelial junctions. EMMPRIN location at junctions correlates with endothelial junction strength at different mouse vascular beds. Accordingly, EMMPRIN-deficient mice show altered junctions and increased permeability. Lack of EMMPRIN alters VE-cadherin pattern and function by decreasing actomyosin contractility and tugging forces at endothelial cell junctions. EMMPRIN ensures proper actomyosin-driven maturation of competent endothelial junctions by forming a molecular complex with γ-catenin and Nm23, a nucleoside diphosphate kinase, thereby locally fueling ATP to the actomyosin machinery. These results provide a novel mechanism for regulation of actomyosin contractility at endothelial junctions and might have broader implications in biological contexts such as angiogenesis, collective migration and tissue morphogenesis by coupling compartmentalized energy production to junction assembly.
Gold Nanoparticles Modified with Artificial Siderophore–Iron(III) Ion Complexes: Selective Adsorption and Aggregation of Microbes Using “Coordination Programming”
Authors: Inomata Tomohiko , Murase Takanori , Ido Hiroki , Ozawa Tomohiro , Masuda Hideki
Published: July 2014

Artificial siderophore–Fe3+ complexes were prepared and modified with Au nanoparticles. These nanoparticles were found to selectively adsorb onto microbes and initiate selective aggregation. The aggregation of microbes leads to the amplification of the detection sensitivity when measured using siderophore-modified quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensors.
Synthesis and Properties of Poly(phenyleneethynylene)s Bearing Perylene Moieties at the Side Chains
Authors: Hashimoto Akinobu , Miyagi Yu , Sogawa Hiromitsu , Yamamoto Shunsuke , Sanda Fumio
Published: July 2014

The Sonogashira–Hagihara coupling polymerization of d-hydroxyphenylglycine-based diiodo monomers 1 and 2 with p-diethynylbenzene gave novel optically active poly(phenyleneethynylene)s 3 and 4 bearing perylene moieties with number-average molecular weights (Mn's) of 4800 and 3700 in 39% and 57% yields. The CD and UV–vis spectroscopic analysis revealed that polymer 3 formed folded helical structures in various solvents, while polymer 4 did not. UV–vis and fluorescence spectroscopic analysis indicated the presence of energy transfer from the phenyleneethynylene main chain to perylene side chains.
Understanding behaviour and communication
Authors: Gourlay Jo
Published: July 2014

Jo Gourlay BVM&S, MRCVS, Ceva Animal Health, explains how pheromones may help calm nervous behaviour in horses
Planning ahead
Authors: Sears Howard
Published: July 2014

Howard Sears of Price Bailey Chartered Accountants explains the auto enrolment guidelines for work-based pensions
The social determinants of knowledge and perception on pulmonary tuberculosis among females in Jakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Fuady Ahmad , Pakasi Trevino A. , Mansyur Muchtaruddin
Published: July 2014

Background: Indonesia has not resolved tuberculosis burden since its prevalence and incidence has remained high. As the capital of Indonesia with a large population and a high number of tuberculosis cases, Jakarta has a distinctive condition of tuberculosis burden. This study aimed to obtain social determinants of knowledge and perception of pulmonary tuberculosis in an urban community.Methods: This study used 2,323 samples taken by random sampling in Jakarta during February-May 2011. Questionnaires were delivered to assess respondents’ knowledge and perception about pulmonary tuberculosis. Levels of knowledge were categorized into ‘poor’ and ‘good’. Perceptions about tuberculosis were measured by whether respondents perceived tuberculosis as a humiliating disease and a shunned disease.Results: Most respondents (88.7%) had good level of knowledge about tuberculosis, but misperception remained high (45.9%) in the community. Education level determined level of knowledge. The higher the education level the lower the risk of lack of knowledge. Tuberculosis perceptions were determined by family income and education level. Higher family income and education level were protective factors of misperception about tuberculosis as a humiliating disease and tendency to shun tuberculosis patients.Conclusion: People in urban area of Jakarta have good level of knowledge about tuberculosis, but it does not necessarily lead to proper perception of tuberculosis. Age, education level and having health insurance determined level of knowledge, while tuberculosis perceptions were determined much more by education level and family income. Tuberculosis control program should consider these determinants prior to developing a comprehensive strategy.
Cost of hemodialysis after coverage by national health insurance in Japan: a sharing experience with Indonesian health reform system
Authors: Sawada Tokihiko , Kawahara Hirohisa
Published: July 2014

About 50 years ago, Japan established a health insurance system covering the entire population, and started a period of rapid economic growth, similar to what is happening now in Indonesia. Although improvements in health conditions definitely contributed to the development of modern Japan, the costs of medical care became a serious burden on the economy. In this short report, we review the concept of medical care expenditure in Japan, focusing especially on end-stage renal disease, to provide suggestions to medical reform in Indonesia.
Validation of simplified predictive score for postoperative mortality after pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Nugroho Adianto , Lalisang Toar J.M.
Published: July 2014

Background: Pancreaticoduodenectomy has long been associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. The key to a better postoperative outcome is a good patient selection. The aim of this study was to develop a simplified preoperative predictive score for postoperative mortality after pancreaticoduodenectomy.Methods: Patients who underwent elective pancreaticoduodenectomy from 1995 to 2012 were identified from the Division of Digestive Surgery database. Bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis identified prediction of morbidity and mortality. ROC curve estimation is use to determined the cut-off value of the predictive score.Results: Of 138 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy, 27 patients (19.6%) died. The predictor of mortality are serum total bilirubin ≥ 10 mg/dL, serum  creatinin ≥ 1.3 mg/dL, hematocrit ≤ 30%, serum albumin ≤ 3.0 g/dL and ASA status ≥ 3, with assign score 1, 1, 2, 1, 1, respectively. The cut-off value was 4 with 96% sensitivity and 91% specificity. The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve was 0.974 (SE 0.011; p < 0.001), which demonstrated a reasonable predictive value for the score.Conclusion: A total score of 4 or more is associated with increased postoperative mortality in patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy.
Effect of laser photocoagulation and bevacizumab intravitreal in proliferative diabetic retinopathy: review on biomarkers of oxidative stress
Authors: Victor Andi A. , Gondhowiardjo Tjahjono D. , Waspadji Sarwono , Wanandi Septelia I. , Bachtiar Adang , Suyatna Franciscus D. , Muhiddin Habibah
Published: July 2014

Background: This study was aimed to compare the effect of laser photocoagulation (LF), intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) and combined treatments on biomarkers of oxidative stress such as aldehhyde dehidrogenase (ALDH), malondialdehyde (MDA) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, and vitreal vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on proliferative diabetic retinopathy (DR) patients.Methods: In this single blind randomized clinical trial, 72 eyes from 69 cases of proliferative DR in Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital between February 2011 - June 2013 were randomized into 4 groups : 1) control (n = 18); 2) LF pre-vitrectomy (n = 18); 3) IVB pre-vitrectomy (n = 18); and 4) combined IVB and LF pre-vitrectomy (n = 18). One-way ANOVA was used to compare oxidative stress parameters in the four groups.Results: There were no statistically significant differences in the average plasma ALDH activity (0.034 ± 0.02; 0.027 ± 0.02; 0.025 ± 0.02; 0.031 ± 0.11 IU/mg protein; p = 0.66), vitreal MDA level (1.661 ± 1.21; 1.557 ± 1.32; 1.717 ± 1.54; 1.501 ± 1.09 nmol/mL; p = 0.96) and SOD activity) (0.403 ± 0.50; 0.210 ± 0.18; 0.399 ± 0.49; 0.273 ± 0.32 U/mL; p = 0.38) among these four groups, respectively. However, the VEGF vitreal level (pg/mL) showed a statistically significant difference (0.356 ± 0.60; 0.393 ± 0.45; 0.150 ± 0.24; 0.069 ± 0.13; p = 0.05). The VEGF level in combination group was five times lower than the control group (p = 0.05).Conclusion: Combined treatments of DR by IVB and LF were correlated with lower vitreal MDA and plasma VEGF level, but did not have any effect on plasma ALDH and vitreal SOD in proliferative DR. Combined treatments with IVB and LF are recommended for the management of proliferative DR patients.
Effect of lyophilized amniotic membrane, hyaluronic acid, and their combination in preventing adhesion after tendon repair in New Zealand white rabbits
Authors: Hadi Syaiful A. , Sukmawan Jefri
Published: July 2014

Background: Several promising methods to reduce the peritendinous adhesion after repair include amniotic membrane and hyaluronic acid application on the repaired tendon site. This study aimed to compare the effect of lyophilized amniotic membrane, application of hyaluronic acid, and their combination in preventing peritendinous adhesion after tendon repair in New Zealand white rabbits.Methods: 64 flexor digitorum fibularis tendon from 16 rabbits were cut and then repaired by modified Kessler technique. Samples were allocated into four test groups; group I as control had simple tendon repair, group II had amniotic membrane wrapping at repair site, group III had hyaluronic acid application at repair site, and group IV had combination of amniotic membrane wrapping and hyaluronic acid application. On 6th week, 8 tendon from each group underwent macroscopic and histologic evaluation of peritendon adhesion by Tang scoring system. The rest of samples were evaluated for tendon gliding at tenth week by measuring active and passive range of motion of metatarsophalangeal joint.Results: At 6th week, macroscopic and histologic evaluation showed that groups II, III, and IV had significantly lower peritendinous adhesion compared to control group (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference found among groups II, III, and IV (p > 0.05). Similar results were found in tendon gliding evaluation, groups II, III, and IV had significantly better range of motion compared to control group (p < 0.05), but there was no significant difference found between these groups (p > 0.05).Conclusion: The application of lyophilized amniotic membrane, hyaluronic acid, or their combination significantly reduce the formation of peritendinous adhesion in repaired flexor digitorum fibularis tendon in rabbit model.
Autoclaved bone graft usage revisited
Authors: Pawitan Jeanne A.
Published: July 2014

[no abstract available]
Mothers, daughters and sex: the negotiation of young women’s sexuality in Britain and Hong Kong
Authors: Jackson Stevi , Ho Petula Sik Ying
Published: July 2014

In Western sociology, much has been made of the impact of rapid social change on sexual lives over the last half century, represented as a consequence of modernity and often as a story of progress, or, in Weeks’s (2007) words, ‘the world we have won’. The ‘world’, however, generally means the Western world. This article is based on comparative qualitative research in Britain and Hong Kong, and explores how the sexuality of young women is managed and negotiated within families, particularly between mothers and daughters. In outlining similarities and differences between Britain and Hong Kong, we argue that these are not simple outcomes of the progress of modernity, or of cultural differences alone, but are related to the material conditions of life in each locale. In making this argument we hope to contribute to moving debates on sexuality and modernity beyond their currently Eurocentric focus.
Relación TG/HDL-C y resistencia a la insulina en mujeres adultas argentinas según su estado nutricional
Authors: Belén Lorena , Oliva Maria Laura , Maffei Laura , Rossi Maria Laura , Squillace Celeste , Alorda Maria Beatriz , Torresani Maria Elena
Published: July 2014

Introducción: la valoración del índice TG/HDL-C resulta un indicador del tamaño de las LDL, facilitando la detección de individuos con riesgo aterogénico aumentado. El objetivo del estudio fue estimar la asociación entre TG/HDL-C y resistencia a la insulina (RI) según el estado nutricional en mujeres adultas.Material y métodos: diseño descriptivo transversal, de mujeres adultas no embarazadas, y aparentemente sanas, mayores de 30 años de edad, concurrentes a la Fundación para Investigación de Enfermedades Endócrino Metabólicas e Investigación Clínica Aplicada (FIEEM) en la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires. Variable dependiente: relación TG/HDL-C considerando valor elevado ≥ 3,0. Variables independientes: RI por Índice modelo  homeostático HOMA-IR ≥ 2,5 categorizando a la muestra en dos grupos: con y sin RI, y controladas según el estado nutricional mediante índice de masa corporal (IMC) y circunferencia de la cintura (CC). Estadística con SPSS 15,0, calculando X2 o prueba exacta de Fisher, OR con intervalos de confianza del 95% y regresión logística estableciendo valor p < 0,05.Resultados: se evaluó una muestra intencional de 104 mujeres (31,4% con RI y 26% con TG/HDL-C elevada). El 84,6% presentó sobrepeso u obesidad y el 88,5% CC aumentada. Las mujeres con IMC aumentado presentaron significativamente 0,15 veces (IC 95% = 0,01-1,26; p = 0,04) más riesgo de TG/HDL-C elevada que las mujeres normopeso. No hubo significación con la CC aumentada. La relación TG/HDL-C elevada se correlacionó significativamente con RI (r = 0,30 p= 0,002).Conclusiones: el peso corporal se asoció significativamente con RI y la relación TG/HDL-C aumentada. Esta relación se correlacionó con la RI en mujeres aparentemente sanas.
El grupo de alimentos del maíz en la estructura energética de la dieta de madres de hogares productores de maíces nativos en dos comunidades del centro de México
Authors: Moreno-Flores Mayra E. , Vizcarra-Bordi Ivonne , Benítez-Arciniega Alejandra D. , Chávez-Mejía Cristina
Published: July 2014

Introducción: Analizar la participación del “Grupo de Alimentos del Maíz” (GAM) en la estructura energética de la dieta de las madres de los hogares que producen maíces nativos.Material y métodos: Estudio prospectivo, transversal descriptivo y comparativo. Se incluyeron a 80 madres en dos comunidades del Estado de México. 40 de una comunidad mestiza periurbana: Santa María Nativitas (SMN) y 40 de una comunidad indígena mazahua: San Jerónimo Mavatí (SJM). La muestra se seleccionó por conveniencia. Se aplicaron cuestionarios para determinar frecuencias de consumo y recordatorios de 24 horas. Se realizó estadística descriptiva y prueba Kolmogorov-Smirnov para una distribución normal de los datos. Se aplicó la prueba T de student (95%) para comparar comunidades empleando el método de análisis de componente principal.Resultados: En SMN las madres consumen 3.999,93 kcal al día, donde 20% proviene del GAM. En SJM ellas consumen 2.566,67 kcal, donde el 33,8% lo aporta GAM. No existe diferencia significativa entre ambas comunidades para el consumo de GAM, pero sí para cereales, azúcares, leguminosas y frutas.Conclusiones: En ambas localidades hubo desplazamiento del consumo del maíz debido a la introducción de otros alimentos a la dieta, destaca el elevado consumo de calorías que aportan cereales y bebidas azucaradas. Esta modificación dietética tiene implicaciones en la salud y en la pérdida de la importancia del maíz como base de la dieta rural y de la seguridad alimentaria asentada en la biodiversidad de maíces mexicanos.
Bioaccesibilidad de hierro de fortificación y zinc endógeno de fideos comerciales tipo spaghetti
Authors: Galán María Gimena , Llopart Emilce , Tissera Emilia , Alladio Anabela , Drago Silvina R
Published: July 2014

Introducción: El presente trabajo tiene por objetivo evaluar la bioaccesibilidad y Aporte Potencial (AP) de Fe y Zn de Fideos Comerciales Fortificados (FCF), y la relación entre el tiempo de cocción y la pérdida de sólidos, Fe y Zn de dichos fideos.Material y métodos: Se analizaron cuatro diferentes marcas de FCF. Se evaluó la pérdida de sólidos, Fe y Zn, a dos tiempos de cocción (tiempo óptimo indicado por el fabricante y una sobrecocción de 10 minutos). La bioaccesibilidad de Fe y Zn se estimó a través del porcentaje del mineral dializado. El AP de minerales se determinó como el producto de la concentración y la dializabilidad de cada mineral.Resultados: Las pérdidas de sólidos resultaron inferiores al 7%, aún con sobrecocción. Tres de los cuatro FCF no cumplían con los valores declarados de contenido de Fe. Se produjeron grandes pérdidas de Fe y Zn durante la cocción, las cuales aumentaron al prolongarse el tiempo de cocción (de 43,7% a 64,7% para Fe; y de 7,7% a 15,2% para el Zn), siendo mayores las pérdidas de Fe (mineral de fortificación), que de Zn (mineral endógeno). La bioaccesibilidad de Fe y Zn resultó baja (0,82±0,27% y 0,90±0,45%, respectivamente) y el AP de una porción de 80 g de FCF sólo cubriría en promedio 0,646% de los requerimientos de Fe y 0,708% de los requerimientos de Zn.Conclusiones: Los resultados muestran que la fortificación de fideos contribuye muy poco a cubrir los requerimientos de los minerales analizados ya que gran parte se pierde en el agua de cocción.
VuFind als Discovery-Tool für digitalisierte Kulturgüter
Authors: Mutschler Thomas
Published: July 2014

Im digitalen Zeitalter erschöpft sich das Aufgabenspektrum der Archive, Bibliotheken und Museen längst nicht mehr in der Sammlung, Erschließung, Bewahrung und Zugänglichmachung physischer Sammlungsbestände. Es bezieht die Digitalisierung ebenso mit ein wie die Zusammenführung der Digitalisate in übergreifenden Internetportalen. Der folgende Beitrag bietet einen Überblick zum Einsatz der Open-Source-Software VuFind, welche als Discovery-Tool für digitalisierte Kulturgüter vorgestellt wird. Erläutert werden nicht nur die Anforderungen, die sich für die Erschließung und das Metadatenmanagement ergeben, sondern auch die Chancen einer engeren Kooperation von Archiven, Bibliotheken und Museen im digitalen Zeitalter. Abgerundet wird der Beitrag um Ausführungen zum Portal digitales thüringen, welches die Anwendung VuFind-basierter Discovery-Technologie im Kontext der Digitalisierung von Kulturgut beispielhaft illustriert.
Singular limits solution for 2-dimensional elliptic problems involving
exponential nonlinearities with sub-quadratic convection nonlinear
gradient terms and singular weights
Authors: Baraket Sami , Ouni Taieb
Published: July 2014

Given a bounded open regular set Ω of

ℝ
2

$\mathbb {R}^2$

,

q
1

,
...
,

q
K

∈

Ω

${q_1, \ldots , q_K \hspace*{-0.85358pt}\in \hspace*{-0.85358pt} \Omega }$

, a regular
bounded function

ϱ

:

Ω

→

[
0
,
+
∞
)

${\varrho \hspace*{-0.56905pt}:\hspace*{-0.56905pt} \Omega \hspace*{-0.85358pt}\rightarrow \hspace*{-0.85358pt} [0,+\infty )}$

and a bounded function

V
:
Ω
→
[
0
,
+
∞
)

${V: \Omega \rightarrow [0,+\infty )}$

, we give a sufficient
condition for the model problem

-
Δ
u
-
λ
ϱ

(
x
)

|
∇
u
|

q

=

ε
2

V

(
x
)

e
u

$
-\Delta u -\lambda \varrho (x)\vert \nabla u\vert ^q = \varepsilon ^2 V(x) e^u
$

to have a positive weak solution in Ω with u = 0 on

∂
Ω

${\partial \Omega }$

, which is singular at each qi
as the parameters ε and λ tend to 0, without considering any relation between them, essentially when the set of concentration points qi
and the set of zeros of V are not necessarily disjoint and

q
∈
[
1
,
2
)

$q\in [1,2)$

is a real number.
Was hat Max Weber mit Kātib Čelebi zu tun? Ein Annäherungsversuch an Gottfried Hagen
Authors: Zemmin Florian
Published: July 2014

This article responds to Gottfried Hagen's extensive review (see Der Islam 2/2013) of my book Islamische Verantwortungsethik im 17. Jahrhundert. Ein weberianisches Verständnis der Handlungsvorstellungen Kātib Čelebis (1609–1657). Whilst I benefitted greatly from some of Hagen's critical remarks and historical elucidations, his review not only misstates crucial passages of my book but also largely disregards its main objective, which is to develop a systematic model for understanding Kātib Čelebi's ethical stance. Besides reiterating crucial arguments ignored and rectifying central aspects misrepresented in Hagen's review, I here ask how the more fundamental misunderstandings – exceeding differences in theoretical positions or empirical observations – between the au-thor's intentions and the reviewer's reception may be explained. Gottfried Hagen's historiographical perspective on Kātib Čelebi diverges from my sociological take on the same subject matter to the extent that both perspectives are struggling to enter into dialogue. Such dialogue, however, remains highly desirable so as to complement a historical reconstruction of Kātib Čelebi's life and times with a systematic, theoretically grounded understanding of his views.
A Note on the Multi-stage Spectral Relaxation Method for Chaos Control and Synchronization
Authors: Dlamini Phumlani Goodwill , Khumalo Melusi , Motsa Sandile Sydney
Published: July 2014

In this study, we present and apply a new, accurate and easy to implement numerical method to realize and verify the synchronization between two identical chaotic Lorenz, Genesio-Tesi, Rössler, Chen and Rikitake systems. The proposed method is called the multi-stage spectral relaxation method (MSRM). We utilize the active control technique for the synchronization of these systems. To illustrate the effectiveness of the method, simulation results are presented and compared with results obtained using the Runge-Kutta (4, 5) based MATLAB solver, ode45.
Military Spending and Economic Growth in An Augmented Solow Model: A Panel Data Investigation for OECD Countries
Authors: Hou Na , Chen Bo
Published: July 2014

The defence-growth nexus has been investigated by many studies and has always been a controversial area of research. By applying an Augmented Solow Growth Model integrated with a military burden variable, this paper examines the effect of military expenditure on economic growth for 21 OECD countries during the period 1960–2009. Different panel estimation methodologies are used to analyze the economic effects of military expenditure. The empirical results suggest that military expenditure would appear to have a negative effect on growth.
Endogenous technical change, employment and distribution in the Goodwin model of the growth cycle
Authors: Tavani Daniele , Zamparelli Luca
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we introduce endogenous technological change through R&D expenditure on labor-augmenting innovation in the cyclical growth model by Goodwin (Goodwin, R. 1967. “A Growth Cycle.” In
Lexical approaches to argument structure
Authors: Müller Stefan , Wechsler Stephen
Published: July 2014

In lexical approaches to argument structure, lexical items include argument structures. The argument structure represents essential information about potential argument selection and expression, but abstracts away from the actual local phrasal structure. In contrast,
TORC2—a new player in genome stability
Authors: Weisman Ronit , Cohen Adiel , Gasser Susan M
Published: July 2014

The inhibition of the central growth regulatory kinase TOR, which participates in two complexes, TORC1 and TORC2, has been a focus of metabolic and cancer studies for many years. Most studies have dealt with TORC1, the canonical target of rapamycin, and the role of this complex in autophagy, protein synthesis, and cell growth control. Recent work on TORC2 in budding and fission yeast species points to a conserved role of this lesser‐known TOR complex in the survival of DNA damage. In budding yeast, TORC2 controls lipid biosynthesis and actin cytoskeleton through downstream AGC kinases, which are now, surprisingly, implicated in the survival of oxidative DNA damage. Preliminary data from mTORC2 modulation in cancer cells suggest that an extension to human chemotherapy is worth exploring.
Exendin-4 stimulates islet cell replication via the IGF1 receptor activation of mTORC1/S6K1
Authors: Xie Jianling , El Sayed Norhan M , Qi Cheng , Zhao Xuechan , Moore Claire E , Herbert Terence P
Published: July 2014

Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP1R) agonists, such as exendin-4, potentiate glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and are currently used in the management of type 2 diabetes. Interestingly, GLP1R agonists also have the ability to augment β-cell mass. In this report, we provide evidence that in the presence of glucose, exendin-4 stimulates rodent islet cell DNA replication via the activation of ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) and that this is mediated by the protein kinase B (PKB)-dependent activation of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1). We show that activation of this pathway is caused by the autocrine or paracrine activation of the IGF1 receptor (IGF1R), as siRNA-mediated knockdown of the IGF1R effectively blocked exendin-4-stimulated PKB and mTORC1 activation. In contrast, pharmacological inactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor has no discernible effect on exendin-4-stimulated PKB or mTORC1 activation. Therefore, we conclude that GLP1R agonists stimulate β-cell proliferation via the PKB-dependent stimulation of mTORC1/S6K1 whose activation is mediated through the autocrine/paracrine activation of the IGF1R. This work provides a better understanding of the molecular basis of GLP1 agonist-induced β-cell proliferation which could potentially be exploited in the identification of novel drug targets that increase β-cell mass.
Кальций в растительных клетках
Authors: Schwartau V. V. , Virych P. A. , Makoveychuk T. I. , Artemenko A. Y.
Published: July 2014

Представлены данные о роли кальция в растительных организмах. Описано участие элемента в процессах размножения, роста и развития, поглощения и транспорта веществ, реакции на неблагоприятные факторы окружающей среды, в защитных реакциях на повреждения патогенами и в симбиотических взаимодействиях. Рассмотрены молекулярные и биофизические механизмы транспорта Ca2+, его участие в сигнальных системах, регуляции концентрации в компартментах клетки. Рассмотрены основные механизмы моделирования поведения кальциевой сигнальной системы в зависимости от типа фактора влияния и возможные модификации ответа путем влияния на ключевые компоненты системы.
Аліментарні тригери гормонзалежних форм раку молочної залози
Authors: Lykholat T. Y. , Lykholat О. А. , Nedzvetsky V. S. , Laktionov V. V.
Published: July 2014

Досліджено процеси перекисного окиснення ліпідів і стан системи антиокисного захисту в організмі щурів різного віку, що піддавалися впливу екзоестрогенів. Установлено різний ступінь інтенсифікації пероксидації залежно від віку та дослідного органа: максимальне перевищення контрольних показників відмічене у сироватці крові, що свідчить про вплив синтетичних естрогенів на всі основні системи організму. У самиць у препубертатному періоді у печінці реакція прооксидантної системи та напруження в системі антиоксидантного захисту перевищували силу відповіді в органі статевозрілих тварин. Відмічено органну дискретність змін активності ензимів антиоксидантного захисту, яка залежить від віку тварин. Ураховуючи залучення системи глутатіону до дезактивації естрогенів шляхом їх кон’югації в реакціях, що каталізуються глутатіонтрансферазою, зниження активності ензиму може викликати накопичення високоактивних проміжних метаболітів із наступним пошкодженням внутрішньоклітинних структур. Ці феномени надалі можуть стати тригером зниження потенціалу компенсаторних механізмів, що разом із генотоксичною дією екзоестрогенів є важливою патогенетичною ланкою в канцерогенезі: ініціюють розвиток проліферативних процесів та виникнення в майбутньому ракових станів і, зокрема, гормонзалежних пухлин молочної залози.
Micromorphological and physical properties of southern ravine soils in Dnipropetrovsk region
Authors: Bozhko K. M.
Published: July 2014

The article contains the results of determination of physical and micromorphological properties of soils under natural ravine vegetation in the southern part of Dnipropetrovsk region. The value of ravine forests for the steppe zone of Ukraine is analyzed, and the methods of investigation are shown. Forest typology characteristics of the vegetation stationary test areas, as well as macro- and micromorphological characteristic of the soil profile, structural condition of the soil, its aggregate composition, and water stability of aggregates, are determined. Soil-forming processes in ravine ecosystems of the southern variant in Dnipropetrovsk region are diagnosed. Micromorphological studies of soil in the intact state, as well as analysis of produced thin sections, revealed the high degree of aggregation of the upper (0–60 cm) soil horizons. Structure formation is of zoogenic origin. Large amount of soil aggregates of coprolite structure is clearly seen under the microscope. Well decomposed plant residues are visible in the aggregates. Soil over the entire area of the section is of dark brown, almost black color. This is due to the large amount (80%) of organic substances indicating the active processes of humification. Fine grained humus is represented by plenty of equally spaced bunches of humones. Humus is in mull form. Skeleton is composed of different sized minerals, with quartz and feldspars dominating in its structure. Plasma is of humus-clay type, uniform over the entire area of the section and anisotropic with point illumination. Visible pore surface area is significant (65%) in the upper layers of the soil profile. Pores feature round and oblong regular shape. Often (on 50% of the pore area) the outbreaks of small invertebrates are found. With the depth of the soil profile, visible pore area decreases, as well as the aggregation. While correlating with the micromorphological characteristics, water stability of the soil structural aggregates reaches very high (80%) indices in the upper horizons of the soil profile and gradually decreases with the soil profile depth. Active biogenic microstructure formation, defining significant aggregation and looseness of microstructure, was diagnosed.
Розмір кладки та успішність розмноження синиці великої (Parus major) та блакитної (P. caeruleus) у парках м. Харків
Authors: Chaplygina A. B. , Bondarets D. I. , Savynskaya N.
Published: July 2014

Установлено середній розмір повної кладки синиці великої 8,9 ± 0,35 (n = 61) та синиці блакитної 9,5 ± 0,33 (n = 12). У синиці великої більшу частину складають 10- (33,5%) та 9-яйцеві (16,7%) кладки. У синиці блакитної переважають 10-яйцеві (25,0%) кладки у Журавлівському гідропарку та 12-яйцеві (17,5%) – у парку імені М. Горького. Встановлено високу успішність розмноження  у синиці великої (85,1%) та блакитної (84,0%). У середньому на одну пару синиці великої із гнізда злітає 5,1 ± 0,16 пташеняти, у синиці блакитної – 8,5 ± 0,38 пташеняти. Це свідчить про стабільність урбопопуляції. Протягом існування популяції у синиці великої виявлено залежність зменшення успішності розмноження: у Журавлівському гідропарку у рік розміщення штучних гніздівель із гнізд злетіло у середньому 6,7 ± 0,12 пташеняти на одну пару, упродовж чотирьох років ця величина зменшилась майже удвічі і становила 3,6 ± 0,15. У синиці блакитної такої залежності не виявлено. Найпродуктивнішими у синиці великої виявилися кладки третьої декади квітня (89,7%), що у середньому складає 8,9 ± 0,78 пташеняти на одну пару. Найуспішнішими є 10-яйцеві кладки, частка зльоту пташенят із яких становила 98,3%, що у середньому складає 9,8 ± 0,18 на одну пару.
Влияние соли железа на массу тела Megaphyllum kievense (Diplopoda, Julidae) и гранулометрический состав подстилки в лабораторном эксперименте
Authors: Brygadyrenko V. V. , Ivanyshin V. М.
Published: July 2014

Оценено воздействие FeSO4·7H2O (10–1, 10–2, 10–3, 10–4, 10–5, 10–6, 10–7 и 10–8 мг Fe / г сухой подстилки) на массу тела и трофическую активность Megaphyllum kievense (Lohmander, 1928). Тридцатисуточный лабораторный эксперимент по изучению влияния M. kievense на разложение растительных остатков в градиенте концентрации Fe показал отсутствие достоверных изменений массы тела животных. Под влиянием M. kievense зарегистрировано достоверное ускорение разложения подстилки при возрастании концентрации в ней Fe. Слабее масса подстилки уменьшалась в контроле (на 45,7 ± 0,44%) и при концентрации 10–8 мг/г (на 44,9 ± 1,00%), сильнее – при 10–1 мг/г (на 46,1 ± 1,76%) и 10–2 мг/г Fe (на 47,0 ± 0,72%). По отношению к исходным значениям до начала эксперимента масса крупной фракции подстилки (>2,0 мм) под влиянием питания M. kievense уменьшилась на 9,8%, а масса фракции 0,7–1,0 мм – возросла на 7,06%. Увеличение доли средней фракции (0,7–1,0 мм) связано с накоплением экскрементов Julidae и фрагментов измельченных листьев при мацерации растительных остатков перед их употреблением в пищу. Влияние на массу тела животных и их кормового субстрата в различных вариантах опыта было недостоверным из-за возможной активации латентных инфекций в условиях лабораторного эксперимента.
A tool to draw chemical equilibrium diagrams using SIT: Applications to geochemical systems and radionuclide solubility
Authors: Puigdomènech I. , Colàs E. , Grivé M. , Campos I. , García D.
Published: July 2014

A set of computer programs has been developed to draw chemical-equilibrium diagrams. This new software is the Java-language equivalent to the Medusa/Hydra software (developed some time ago in Visual basic at the Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden). The main program, now named “Spana” calls Java programs based on the HaltaFall algorithm. The equilibrium constants that are needed for the calculations may be retrieved from a database included in the software package (“Database” program). This new software is intended for undergraduate students as well as researchers and professionals.

The “Spana” code can be easily applied to perform radionuclide speciation and solubility calculations of minerals, including solubility calculations relevant for the performance assessment of a nuclear waste repository. In order to handle ionic strength corrections in such calculations several approaches can be applied. The “Spana” code is able to perform calculations based on three models: the Davies equation; an approximation to the model by Helgeson et al. (HKF); and the Specific Ion-Interaction Theory (SIT). Default SIT-coefficients may be used, which widens the applicability of SIT significantly.

A comparison is made here among the different ionic strength approaches used by “Spana” (Davies, HKF, SIT) when modelling the chemistry of radionuclides and minerals of interest under the conditions of a geological repository for nuclear waste. For this purpose, amorphous hydrous Thorium(IV) oxide (ThO2(am)), Gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) and Portlandite (Ca(OH)2) solubility at high ionic strengths have been modelled and compared to experimental data from the literature. Results show a good fitting between the calculated values and the experimental data especially for the SIT approach in a wide range of ionic strengths (0-4 M).
Experimental adsorption studies on different materials selected for developing a permeable reactive barrier for radiocesium retention
Authors: García-Gutiérrez Miguel , Missana Tiziana , Benedicto Ana , Ayora Carlos , DePourcq Katrien
Published: July 2014

Cs-137 was accidentally spilled in an industrial waste repository located in a salt marsh in southern Spain, and a permeable reactive barrier was proposed to retain it. Cs adsorption properties of different natural clayey materials were analyzed. The salt marsh waters show high salinity and high chemical variability, therefore Cs adsorption was also analyzed in the presence of competitive ions, especially K+ and NH4+.

Cs adsorption was non-linear in all the analyzed materials, indicating more than one adsorption sites with different selectivity. It was shown that in mixed clay systems with illite, montmorillonite and kaolinite, the presence of illite favors Cs retention at low and medium Cs loadings and montmorillonite at high Cs loadings. In the presence of illite and montmorillonite, kaolinite plays almost no role in Cs retention. The presence of K+ and NH4+ significantly hinders cesium adsorption.
The Behavior of Radiocaesium Deposited in an Upland Reservoir After the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant Accident
Authors: Funaki Hironori , Hagiwara Hiroki , Tsuruta Tadahiko
Published: July 2014

In the autumn of 2012, the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) launched a new research project named F-TRACE (Long-Term Assessment of Transport of Radioactive Contaminant in the Environment of Fukushima). The aims of this project are to develop a system for prediction of radiation exposure, taking into consideration the transport, deposition, and remobilization behavior of radiocaesium (RCs) from the highest contaminated mountain forests, down through the biosphere, before deposition in a number of different aquatic systems. Especially, it is important to understand balances of suspended and deposited particles and RCs inventory in inflow water, discharge water and bottom sediments of an upland reservoir. In this paper, we describe current research activities performed by JAEA at the Ogi Reservoir, Fukushima prefecture, Japan.

According to our analyses the specific sediment yield and the average rate of storage capacity loss at the Ogi Reservoir are 210 m3 km-2 year-1 and 0.15 % year-1, respectively. The vertical distribution of RCs exhibits clear peaks at several sites in the reservoir formed by deposition of eroded soil particles from the catchment that were contaminated by accident fallout. Above the depth of each of the RCs peaks, the distribution of RCs was found to be variable with depth, with concentrations ranging over five orders of magnitude for a single core. The peaks in the sedimentation profiles are probably formed from eroded soil particles entering the reservoir from the surrounding contaminated watershed (most probably during storm events). Results from grain size analyses suggest that contaminated fine sediment tends to be deposited thickly within deeper parts of the reservoir. In addition, above the depth of RCs peaks at these deeper sites, the concentration of RCs approximately increased or decreased as the proportion of fine sediments increased or decreased. However, some fine particles are possibly discharged downstream during operational releases from the dam.
Effect of cement water on UO2 solubility
Authors: Cachoir C. , Mennecart Th. , Lemmens K.
Published: July 2014

To assess the stability of spent fuel in the highly alkaline chemical environment of the Belgian Supercontainer design, static leach experiments were performed with depleted UO2 and 238Pu-doped UO2 at different SA/V ratios for 1.5 years in cement waters (11.7< pH < 13.5) at ambient temperature and under argon atmosphere. The influence of the calcium concentration on the uranium release was also investigated. While the ultrafiltered U(IV) concentration was 10-9-10-8 mol.L-1 and independent of the pH, the U(VI) release from the UO2 surface was enhanced by the OH- concentration, leading to soluble U concentrations up to 10-5 mol.L-1 at high SA/V and under the influence of radiolysis. Together with the high Ca concentration, this can lead to the formation of Ca-U(VI) colloids as precursor of Ca-U(VI) secondary phases, decreasing the soluble U concentration. The precipitation of Ca-U secondary phases was however not clearly evidenced by surface analyses.
Calcium Vanadinite: An Alternative Apatite Host for Cl-rich Wastes
Authors: Gilbert M. R.
Published: July 2014

Apatites are often seen as good potential candidates for the immobilization of halide-rich wastes and, in particular, chlorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3Cl) has received much attention in recent years. However, synthesis of chlorapatite waste-forms can produce a complicated multi-phase system, with a number of secondary phases forming, including β-TCP (Ca3(PO4)2), spodiosite (Ca2(PO4)Cl) and pyrophosphate (Ca2P2O7), many of which require elevated temperatures and extended calcinations times to reduce. Calcium vanadinite (Ca5(VO4)3Cl) demonstrates a much simpler phase system, with calcination at 750 °C yielding Ca5(VO4)3Cl together a small quantity of a Ca2V2O7secondary phase, the formation of which can be retarded by the addition of excess CaCl2. Characterization of compositions doped with SmCl3as an inactive analogue for AnCl3show the Cl to be immobilized in the vanadinite whilst the Sm forms a wakefieldite (SmVO4) phase.
Effect of strontium oxide on the formation mechanism of dicalcium silicate with barium oxide and sulfur trioxide
Authors: Zhang Jie , Gong Chenchen , Wang Shoude , Lu Lingchao , Cheng Xin
Published: July 2014

Belite-barium calcium sulfoaluminate cement is a new type of cement characterised by low energy consumption and low carbon dioxde emissions, but the slow hydration of the belite phase leads to a slow mechanical property gain at early ages compared with ordinary Portland cement. A doping technique has been proposed as one option to promote its reactivity. Strontium slag, a kind of chemical industrial waste produced from the manufacture of strontium salt, has a high level of emissions in China. In this study, the influence of strontium oxide on the formation mechanism of dicalcium silicate with barium oxide and sulfur trioxide, which are both in excess in belite-barium calcium sulfoaluminate cement clinker, is investigated. Results show that strontium oxide accelerates the decomposition process of calcium carbonate, and its final decomposition temperature can be lowered by 67°C. Strontium oxide decreases the formation rate of dicalcium silciate at the same temperature, but the amount of total dicalcium silicate formed can still be as high as 94·5 wt% at 1350°C. Moreover, it is revealed that strontium oxide plays a significant role in stabilising β-dicalcium silicate, and reduces γ-dicalcium silicate by about 40%. This study could lead to environmental benefits and cement performance improvement.
The Influence of Pre-Heating on the Weldability of Pure Copper by FSW
Authors: Carlone Pierpaolo , Palazzo Gaetano S.
Published: July 2014

This paper deals with an experimental investigation on the friction stir welding of pure copper. 4 mm thick
copper plates have been welded in the butt joint configuration using a conical unthreaded tool, with and without
preheating. An electrically heated backing plate has been employed to increase the initial temperature of the plates and to
investigate the influence of pre-heating on the weld ability of the considered material. The welded joints have been
analyzed by means of macroscopic and microscopic observations, microhardness measurements and tensile tests.
Obtained outcomes suggest that more complex pin shape is needed to promote an adequate material flow without preheating.
Study on Air Flow Characteristics in Cylinders of a Four-Valve Engine
with Different Lifts of Valves
Authors: Zhang Shiqiang , Zhang Xianghong , Wang Huigang , Liu Ruilin , Liu Wuquan , Zhou Guangmeng , Chi Miao
Published: July 2014

A 1arge-scale tumble rather than swirl would exist in cylinders in the case of two valves’ opening in a fourvalve
engine. A strong swirl is generated when one valve is closed, yet the flow capacity is less than that of two valves
being opened. In order to change it, different lifts of valves (DLV) present are achieved. In the case of using different lifts
of two intake valves, both tumble and swirl would occur in cylinders, and the flow capacity will hardly change. A new
method of measuring the rotational speed of the intake swirl –the method of virtual rotational speed of theory has been put
forward. Not only does it eliminate the influence of frictional resistance, but also obtain a theoretic rotational speed, which
is only produced by intake swirl.