bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Where Security Meets Justice: Prosecuting Maritime Piracy in the International Criminal Court
Authors: O'BRIEN Melanie
Published: November 2013

The International Criminal Court (ICC) was established to prosecute crimes that “threaten the peace, security and well-being of the world”. Maritime piracy has a long history as a threat to international security and was in fact the first international crime. Yet piracy was excluded from the Rome Statute. In the years since the drafting of the Rome Statute, piracy has increased dramatically to become more like the threat it was in the “Golden Age of Piracy”. Criminal accountability for piracy has been minimal, due to logistical and jurisdictional difficulties. This paper offers an analysis of the potential of the ICC for prosecuting pirates: why it should be considered as a potential forum for ensuring criminal accountability for piracy, how piracy fits within the ICC's jurisdiction, and whether or not piracy should be added to the Rome Statute as a stand-alone crime or under the rubric of crimes against humanity.
Platelet-targeted gene therapy with human factor VIII establishes haemostasis in dogs with haemophilia A
Authors: Du Lily M. , Nurden Paquita , Nurden Alan T. , Nichols Timothy C. , Bellinger Dwight A. , Jensen Eric S. , Haberichter Sandra L. , Merricks Elizabeth , Raymer Robin A. , Fang Juan , Koukouritaki Sevasti B. , Jacobi Paula M. , Hawkins Troy B. , Cornetta Kenneth , Shi Qizhen , Wilcox David A.
Published: November 2013

It is essential to improve therapies for controlling excessive bleeding in patients with haemorrhagic disorders. As activated blood platelets mediate the primary response to vascular injury, we hypothesize that storage of coagulation Factor VIII within platelets may provide a locally inducible treatment to maintain haemostasis for haemophilia A. Here we show that haematopoietic stem cell gene therapy can prevent the occurrence of severe bleeding episodes in dogs with haemophilia A for at least 2.5 years after transplantation. We employ a clinically relevant strategy based on a lentiviral vector encoding the ITGA2B gene promoter, which drives platelet-specific expression of human FVIII permitting storage and release of FVIII from activated platelets. One animal receives a hybrid molecule of FVIII fused to the von Willebrand Factor propeptide-D2 domain that traffics FVIII more effectively into α-granules. The absence of inhibitory antibodies to platelet-derived FVIII indicates that this approach may have benefit in patients who reject FVIII replacement therapies. Thus, platelet FVIII may provide effective long-term control of bleeding in patients with haemophilia A.
Multivalent ion screening of charged glass surface studied by streaming potential measurements
Authors: Li Ran , Todd Brian A.
Published: November 2013

We used streaming potential technique to measure ζ potentials for glass as a function of Co(NH3)6Cl3 concentration, KCl concentration, and pH. Charge inversion was observed only at high surface charge densities and was inhibited by increased KCl concentration. Measured ζ potentials were compared with predictions from a recent theory by dos Santos et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 132, 104105 (2010)] that models multivalent ions adsorbed to the charged surface as a strong coupled liquid (SCL). The location of shear plane was determined independent of the SCL theory, allowing a rigorous experimental test of the theory with no fitting parameters. We found that SCL predictions agree quantitatively with our experimental data.
Raman intensity profiles of zone-folded modes in SiC: Identification of stacking sequence of 10H-SiC
Authors: Nakashima S. , Tomita T. , Kuwahara N. , Mitani T. , Tomobe M. , Nishizawa S. , Okumura H.
Published: November 2013

Raman intensity profiles are measured for 10H-SiC crystals, for which various zone-folded phonon modes are observed. Raman intensity profiles are calculated based on a bond polarizability model assuming several stacking sequences for the 10H polytype using a linear chain model. Among several candidates for the stacking sequences, the 3322 stacking structure provides the best-fit profile for experimental spectral profiles. The hexagonality value of 0.4 predicted from the stacking sequence of this polytype is consistent with that derived from the frequency splitting between the experimental A1 and E-type transverse optical modes. This fact is consistent with an empirical rule that the value of the reduced wavevector for the strongest folded transverse acoustic and optical modes are equal to the hexagonality of the polytype. In the present analysis of the Raman intensity profiles, the calculated intensity profiles for specified folded transverse optical modes are found to be relatively strong and strikingly dependent on force-field parameters in α-SiC that consists of the mixture of the cubic and hexagonal stacking structures. These force-field parameters can reproduce well the experimental Raman intensity profiles of various SiC polytypes including 10H-SiC.
Direct imaging of LaAlO3/SrTiO3 nanostructures using piezoresponse force microscopy
Authors: Huang Mengchen , Bi Feng , Ryu Sangwoo , Eom Chang-Beom , Irvin Patrick , Levy Jeremy
Published: November 2013

The interface between LaAlO3 and TiO2-terminated SrTiO3 can be switched between metastable conductive and insulating states using a conductive atomic force microscope probe. Determination of the nanoscale dimensions has previously required a destructive readout (e.g., local restoration of an insulating state). Here it is shown that high-resolution non-destructive imaging of conductive nanostructures can be achieved using a specific piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) technique. Images of conductive and insulating nanoscale features are achieved with feature sizes as small as 30 nm. The measured nanowire width from PFM is well correlated with those obtained from nanowire erasure.
Kinetics of thermal degradation of renewably prepared amines useful for flue gas treatment
Authors: Bhosale Rahul R. , Mahajani Vijaykumar V.
Published: November 2013

N-ethylmonoethanolamine (EMEA) and N-N-diethylmonoethanolamine (DEMEA) can be prepared from renewable resources and appear to be commercially attractive solvents for post-combustion CO2 capture by absorption/stripping process. In this paper, the thermal degradation of these renewably prepared amines was studied at 423 K and compared with other amines such as monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, and N-methyl diethanolamine. Furthermore, an investigation of the kinetics of thermal degradation of aqueous EMEA and DEMEA was conducted by using a 600 ml high-temperature high-pressure reactor in the temperature range of 393 to 423 K and amine concentration range of 1 to 3 kmol m−3, respectively. Estimation of the active solvent content of the reaction mixture samples obtained during the degradation experiments was performed using a gas chromatograph (GC) equipped with a Flame Ionization Detector (FID) and a Tenax GC column. The obtained results indicate that the rate of thermal degradation of both aqueous EMEA and DEMEA increases with the increase in the initial amine concentration and temperature. Additionally, the degradation reaction was observed to be first order with respect to the initial amine concentration. Two intrinsic kinetic power law models were formulated to describe the kinetics of the thermal degradation of aqueous EMEA and DEMEA and the kinetic parameters were predicted by using the linear least-squares regression analysis. The kinetic rate constants for the thermal degradation of these renewably prepared amines were determined (both experimentally and by the models) and on the basis of their temperature dependency, the activation energy for the degradation reaction was estimated. This work represents the first attempt towards obtaining the intrinsic kinetic data for thermal degradation of aqueous EMEA and DEMEA and formulating a kinetic model that fits the data based on the initial rate of degradation.
Convective amplification of a three-wave parametric instability in inhomogeneous plasma
Authors: Zhao Aihui , Gao Zhe
Published: November 2013

The three-wave parametric instability in inhomogeneous plasma is revisited and the inconsistency of the convective amplification in previous literatures is resolved. By employing multiple methods, the amplification factor of the decay mode due to the inhomogeneity is confirmed as A=πγ02/(vg1xvg2xκ′), which is independent of the linear damping rate of the decay mode, where γ0 is the nonlinear growth rate in homogeneous plasma, vg1x and vg2x are the group velocities in the x direction of the two decay modes and κ′ is the derivative of the wavevector mismatch of the three coupled waves due to the plasma inhomogeneity.
Di-interstitial defect in silicon revisited
Authors: Londos C. A. , Antonaras G. , Chroneos A.
Published: November 2013

Infrared spectroscopy was used to study the defect spectrum of Cz-Si samples following fast neutron irradiation. We mainly focus on the band at 533 cm−1, which disappears from the spectra at ∼170 °C, exhibiting similar thermal stability with the Si-P6 electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrum previously correlated with the di-interstitial defect. The suggested structural model of this defect comprises of two self-interstitial atoms located symmetrically around a lattice site Si atom. The band anneals out following a first-order kinetics with an activation energy of 0.88 ± 0.3 eV. This value does not deviate considerably from previously quoted experimental and theoretical values for the di-interstitial defect. The present results indicate that the 533 cm−1 IR band originates from the same structure as that of the Si-P6 EPR spectrum.
Diffusion coefficient of three-dimensional Yukawa liquids
Authors: Dzhumagulova K. N. , Ramazanov T. S. , Masheeva R. U.
Published: November 2013

The purpose of this work is an investigation of the diffusion coefficient of the dust component in complex plasma. The computer simulation of the Yukawa liquids was made on the basis of the Langevin equation, which takes into account the influence of buffer plasma on the dust particles dynamics. The Green–Kubo relation was used to calculate the diffusion coefficient. Calculations of the diffusion coefficient for a wide range of the system parameters were performed. Using obtained numerical data, we constructed the interpolation formula for the diffusion coefficient. We also show that the interpolation formula correctly describes experimental data obtained under microgravity conditions.
Ways to improve the efficiency and reliability of radio frequency driven negative ion sources for fusion
Authors: Kraus W. , Briefi S. , Fantz U. , Gutmann P. , Doerfler J.
Published: November 2013

Large RF driven negative hydrogen ion sources are being developed at IPP Garching for the future neutral beam injection system of ITER. The overall power efficiency of these sources is low, because for the RF power supply self-excited generators are utilized and the plasma is generated in small cylindrical sources (“drivers”) and expands into the source main volume. At IPP experiments to reduce the primary power and the RF power required for the plasma production are performed in two ways: The oscillator generator of the prototype source has been replaced by a transistorized RF transmitter and two alternative driver concepts, a spiral coil, in which the field is concentrated by ferrites, which omits the losses by plasma expansion and a helicon source are being tested.
Optimising a crossbreeding production system using three specialised imported swine breeds in south-western China
Authors: Tang Guoqing , Yang Ruifei , Xue Jia , Liu Tianfei , Zeng Zhiyao , Jiang Anan , Jiang Yanzhi , Li Mingzhou , Zhu Li , Bai Lin , Shuai Surong , Li Xuewei
Published: November 2013

Crossbreeding is an effective method for improving the efficiency and profit of production in pig commercial operations. It exploits available heterosis and combines breed differences for specific characteristics. Before application of a crossbreeding system, commercial swine producers should evaluate available crossbreeding systems using existing swine breeds, and choose one that is most beneficial for their own environment, resources, and management. In this study, the latest biological and economic data were collected from commercial producers in south-western China. Three imported swine breeds (Duroc, Landrace and Yorkshire) were evaluated with three simulated crossbreeding systems. System 1 used a three-breed terminal cross with Duroc × (Landrace × Yorkshire). System 2 was based on a three-breed rotational cross of Duroc, Landrace and Yorkshire. System 3 was a combined cross system with Duroc × (Landrace, Yorkshire) three-breed rotaterminal. System 1 was predicted to be the most beneficial system (￥3895.15/sow), followed by system 3 (￥3749.02/sow), and then system 2 (￥3317.33/sow). Results of this study suggested that three-breed terminal cross or rotaterminal cross should maximise effective use of heterosis and breed complementarity of three imported breeds in south-western China. Also, the relative economic values of objective traits for these systems were updated using the most up-to-date biological and economic parameters.
An assessment of the guidelines in Victoria, Australia, for land application of biosolids based on plant-available nitrogen
Authors: Al-Dhumri Sami , Beshah Firew H. , Porter Nichola A. , Meehan Barry , Wrigley Roger
Published: November 2013

In the application of biosolids to land for agricultural purposes, the supply of plant-available nitrogen (PAN) should match the crop requirements. This ensures that the crop yield is maximised while minimising the environmental risk from over-application. In Victoria, the amount to be applied is usually calculated according to the State EPA guidelines using the nitrogen limited biosolids application rates (NLBAR). These guidelines specify the mineralisation rates to be used in the NLBAR calculation for different types of biosolids. However, these rates have not been validated for Victorian soils and agricultural production systems. To test the veracity of these rates, this study quantified the amount of PAN for two different biosolids (anaerobically digested biosolids, ANDB; and aerobically digested biosolids, ADB) added to two types of soils, a sandy loam at Lara and a clay loam at the Melton Recycled Water Plant, Surbiton Park, Melton. The PAN was calculated by determining the N fertiliser equivalence of the biosolids. To achieve this, two field calibration plots were prepared, one for the biosolids and one for urea as the N fertiliser. Biosolids were applied based on total N at six rates (0, 68, 136, 204, 340 and 510 kg N ha–1); urea was applied at six rates (0, 60, 120, 180, 240 and 280 kg N ha–1). Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) was planted 1 day after the application of biosolids and harvested after 120 days. The calculated amount of mineralisable organic N in ANDB was estimated to be 41% and 39% when applied to the clay loam and sandy loam soils, respectively; for ADB, it was 12% and 9%, respectively. These values indicate that the organic N mineralisation rates provided in the EPA Victoria guidelines (15% for ANDB and 25% for ADB) might not always be applicable. Also of note is that the values obtained for the each of the biosolids appear to be independent of the soil type.
Enhanced in vivo fitness of carbapenem-resistant
oprD
mutants of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
revealed through high-throughput sequencing
Authors: Skurnik David , Roux Damien , Cattoir Vincent , Danilchanka Olga , Lu Xi , Yoder-Himes Deborah R. , Han Kook , Guillard Thomas , Jiang Deming , Gaultier Charlotte , Guerin François , Aschard Hugues , Leclercq Roland , Mekalanos John J. , Lory Stephen , Pier Gerald B.
Published: November 2013

Significance

It is thought antibiotic resistance carries a fitness cost and reduces microbial virulence. Using high-throughput sequencing analysis of a transposon insertion bank in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, we found enhanced fitness for in vivo mucosal colonization and systemic spread of strains with transposon insertions in the
oprD
gene. This conferred resistance to carbapenem antibiotics as well as enhanced resistance to killing at acidic pH and by normal human serum along with increased cytotoxicity against murine macrophages. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that
oprD
deficiency led to transcriptional changes in numerous genes that may contribute to the enhanced in vivo fitness observed. Thus, if carbapenem resistance develops during antibiotic therapy of
P. aeruginosa
infections, it may lead to enhanced fitness and virulence in infected hosts.
Control of creatine metabolism by HIF is an endogenous mechanism of barrier regulation in colitis
Authors: Glover Louise E. , Bowers Brittelle E. , Saeedi Bejan , Ehrentraut Stefan F. , Campbell Eric L. , Bayless Amanda J. , Dobrinskikh Evgenia , Kendrick Agnieszka A. , Kelly Caleb J. , Burgess Adrianne , Miller Lauren , Kominsky Douglas J. , Jedlicka Paul , Colgan Sean P.
Published: November 2013

Significance

Intestinal epithelial barrier dysregulation is a hallmark of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). A central role for hypoxic signaling has been defined in barrier modulation during inflammation. We demonstrate that genes involved in creatine metabolism, the creatine kinases (CKs), are coordinately regulated by hypoxia-inducible transcription factors (HIFs) and that such regulation is critical to barrier function. Inhibition of the CK pathway abrogates apical junction assembly and barrier integrity. Dietary creatine supplementation profoundly attenuates the pathogenic course of mucosal inflammation in mouse colitis models. Moreover, we demonstrate altered expression of mitochondrial and cytosolic CK enzymes in IBD patient tissue. These findings highlight the fundamental contribution of creatine metabolism to intestinal mucosal function, homeostasis, and disease resolution.
Effect of the Fukushima nuclear accident on the risk perception of residents near a nuclear power plant in China
Authors: Huang Lei , Zhou Ying , Han Yuting , Hammitt James K. , Bi Jun , Liu Yang
Published: November 2013

Significance

Because of its severity and proximity, the Fukushima nuclear accident exposed the Chinese public to the potential risks associated with nuclear power. Our analysis of surveys taken before and immediately after the event shows that this disaster has dramatically changed the risks of nuclear power perceived by the public and has significantly decreased public acceptance. Our study identified females, those who are not in public service, lower-income workers, and residents close to existing nuclear facilities as potentially the most affected. Effective communication strategies to facilitate public judgments about new nuclear plants should recognize these sensitive subgroups.
Nonmuscle myosin II powered transport of newly formed collagen fibrils at the plasma membrane
Authors: Kalson Nicholas S. , Starborg Tobias , Lu Yinhui , Mironov Aleksandr , Humphries Sally M. , Holmes David F. , Kadler Karl E.
Published: November 2013

Significance

Collagen is the most abundant protein in vertebrates and is the building block of strong tissues such as tendons, skin, and bones. The fibrils can be millimeters long and occur in the extracellular matrix as a scaffold for tissue growth. Important questions remain unanswered about how cells assemble and transport the fibrils. We show here that collagen fibril assembly can occur at the plasma membrane in structures called fibripositors. We show that fibripositors are a nonmuscle myosin II (NMII)-dependent mechanical interface between the actinomyosin machinery and the extracellular matrix; thus, we propose a new function for NMII. A unique mechanism of fibril transport is presented as a basis for studies of tissue morphogenesis and conditions including wound healing and fibrosis.
DREAM/calsenilin/KChIP3 modulates strategy selection and estradiol-dependent learning and memory
Authors: Tunur Tumay , Stelly Claire E. , Schrader Laura Ann
Published: November 2013

Downstream regulatory element antagonist modulator (DREAM)/calsenilin(C)/K+ channel interacting protein 3 (KChIP3) is a multifunctional Ca2+-binding protein highly expressed in the hippocampus that inhibits hippocampus-sensitive memory and synaptic plasticity in male mice. Initial studies in our lab suggested opposing effects of DR/C/K3 expression in female mice. Fluctuating hormones that occur during the estrous cycle may affect these results. In this study, we hypothesized that DR/C/K3 interacts with 17β-estradiol, the primary estrogen produced by the ovaries, to play a role in hippocampus function. We investigated the role of estradiol and DR/C/K3 in learning strategy in ovariectomized (OVX) female mice. OVX WT and DR/C/K3 knockout (KO) mice were given three injections of vehicle (sesame oil) or 17β-estradiol benzoate (0.25 mg in 100 mL sesame oil) 48, 24, and 2 h before training and testing. DR/C/K3 and estradiol had a time-dependent effect on strategy use in the female mice. Male KO mice exhibited enhanced place strategy relative to WT 24 h after pre-exposure. Fear memory formation was significantly reduced in intact female KO mice relative to intact WT mice, and OVX reduced fear memory formation in the WT, but had no effect in the KO mice. Long-term potentiation in hippocampus slices from female mice was enhanced by circulating ovarian hormones in both WT and DR/C/K3 KO mice. Paired-pulse depression was not affected by ovarian hormones but was reduced in DR/C/K3 KO mice. These results provide the first evidence that DR/C/K3 plays a timing-dependent role in estradiol regulation of learning, memory, and plasticity.
Temperature‐related variation in growth rate, size, maturation and life span in a marine herbivorous fish over a latitudinal gradient
Authors: L. Trip Elizabeth D. , Clements Kendall D. , Raubenheimer David , Choat J. Howard
Published: November 2013

In ectotherms, growth rate, body size and maturation rate covary with temperature, with the direction and magnitude of variation predicted by the Temperature‐Size Rule (TSR). Nutritional quality or availability of food, however, may vary over latitudinal gradients, resulting in ambiguous effects on body size and maturation rate. The Temperature‐Constraint Hypothesis (TCH) predicts that marine herbivorous ectotherms are nutritionally compromised at latitudes exceeding 30°. This provides an opportunity to resolve the contrasting demographic responses of ectotherms to variation in temperature and nutritional status over latitudinal gradients.

This study uses analysis of demographic rates to evaluate the predictions of the TSR in a marine herbivorous ectotherm sampled over a significant latitudinal gradient.

The direction and magnitude of demographic variation was established in the marine herbivorous fish, Odax pullus (the butterfish), and compared with that of a phylogenetically related but trophically distinct species, the carnivorous Notolabrus fucicola (the banded wrasse). Both species were sampled at three locations across the length of New Zealand covering latitudes between 35°S and 49°S. Growth rate, mean size‐at‐age, age‐ and size‐at‐maturity, life span and abundance were estimated for each species at each location.

Demographic traits of both taxa varied with latitude. Both species showed slower initial growth rates, and matured later at a larger body size at higher latitudes than populations sampled at lower latitudes. In addition, abundances increased significantly at higher latitudes in both species.

These results were consistent with the TSR but not with the TCH, confirming that nutritional ecology (herbivore vs. carnivory) did not determine demographic patterns over a biologically significant latitudinal gradient. Results from this study suggest that the absence of herbivorous reef fishes from the higher latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere may not reflect a general physiological mechanism as suggested by the TCH and highlights the need to clarify the evolutionary histories of the marine biota of each hemisphere.
Variation in Lycopene and Lycopenoates, Antioxidant Capacity, and Fruit Quality of Buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea[Pursh]Nutt.)
Authors: Riedl Ken M. , Choksi Krunal , Wyzgoski Faith J. , Scheerens Joseph C. , Schwartz Steven J. , Reese R. Neil
Published: November 2013

Buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea[Pursh] Nutt.) has historically been used as an important food source by North American indigenous peoples, but its commercial production has been limited. These plants produce fruits rich in carotenoid and phenolic antioxidants, which may have health benefits that may make buffaloberry commercially valuable. Here, we examined these constituents in the fruit of 7 Dakota‐grown buffaloberry selections. Primary carotenoids were determined by liquid chromatography‐mass spectral analysis and by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to be lycopene (0.27 ± 0.02 g/kg FW) and methyl apo‐6’‐lycopenoate (MA6L; 0.32 ± 0.03/kg FW). MA6L comprised the greatest proportion (55%) of carotenoid antioxidants, but its role in human nutrition is still to be evaluated. The fruit contained high total phenolics concentrations (9.06 ± 0.71 g gallic acid equivalents/kg FW). Hydrophilic antioxidant capacity among the 7 selections averaged 49.0 ± 6.6 mmol trolox equivalents/kg FW, respectively, as measured by ferric reducing ability of plasma assay. The soluble solids and titratable acids concentrations were 21% and 2.2%, respectively. This species is adapted to poor soils and can tolerate drier climates. In the Dakotas, buffaloberry flourishes on the American Indian Tribal Reservations, yielding copious amounts of health‐beneficial fruit for fresh and processing markets, making it a potentially valuable new crop for marginal lands.
Storage Study and Quality Evaluation of Coconut Protein Powder
Authors: Naik Aduja , Prakash Maya , R Ravi , Raghavarao KSMS
Published: November 2013

Coconut skim milk and insoluble protein are 2 major byproducts in the production of virgin coconut oil. Coconut skim milk was homogenized along with insoluble protein and spray dried to obtain a value‐added product, namely, coconut protein powder (CPP). This study deals with the storage study of CPP under different conditions (refrigerated [control], ambient and accelerated). CPP samples were withdrawn periodically at designated intervals of 15 d for accelerated and control, and 30 d for ambient condition. CPP stored at different conditions exhibited marginal moisture uptake (by 0.74 % w/w for control, 0.76 % w/w for ambient, and 1.26 % w/w for accelerated condition) and as a result, had very little effect on the functional properties of the powder. Withdrawn CPP was tested for sensory quality aspects and subjected to instrumental analysis as well. Withdrawn CPP was incorporated as a milk substitute in dessert (Kheer). Quantitative descriptive analysis of the powder and product (Kheer) showed no significant difference in attributes of CPP during the storage period of 2 mo. Electronic nose analysis revealed that CPP samples were not much different with respect to aroma pattern matching, respectively.
Analysis of Thermal Processing of Table Olives Using Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Dimou A. , Panagou E. , Stoforos N. G. , Yanniotis S.
Published: November 2013

In the present work, the thermal processing of table olives in brine in a stationary metal can was studied through computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The flow patterns of the brine and the temperature evolution in the olives and brine during the heating and the cooling cycles of the process were calculated using the CFD code. Experimental temperature measurements at 3 points (2 inside model olive particles and 1 at a point in the brine) in a can (with dimensions of 75 mm × 105 mm) filled with 48 olives in 4% (w/v) brine, initially held at 20 °C, heated in water at 100 °C for 10 min, and thereafter cooled in water at about 20 °C for 10 min, validated model predictions. The distribution of temperature and F‐values and the location of the slowest heating zone and the critical point within the product, as far as microbial destruction is concerned, were assessed for several cases. For the cases studied, the critical point was located at the interior of the olives at the 2nd, or between the 1st and the 2nd olive row from the bottom of the container, the exact location being affected by olive size, olive arrangement, and geometry of the container.
Aroma Characteristic and Volatile Profiling of Carrot Varieties and Quantitative Role of Terpenoid Compounds for Carrot Sensory Attributes
Authors: Fukuda Tomohiko , Okazaki Keiki , Shinano Takuro
Published: November 2013

The aroma characteristics and volatile profiles of 14 carrot varieties were investigated by sensory evaluations and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry volatile analyses. The sensory map obtained by principal components analysis showed that the sensory attributes comprised 3 categories: sour/green, overall carrot/harsh/ink‐like, and fruity/fresh/sweet. The Kuroda type is characterized by lower intensities of overall carrot/harsh/ink‐like and fruity/fresh/sweet notes. Furthermore, volatile profiling indicated that this type did not have significantly higher amounts of volatiles. Partial least squares regression analysis determined the quantitative contributions to ink‐like, harsh, and fruity carrot aromas; monoterpenes had significant positive correlations with these attributes, while bisabolene isomers had negative correlations. The aroma attribute intensity and contents of volatiles and nutritional compounds are relatively low in the Kuroda type than in other carrot types. This type may be useful for reducing carrot harshness during the development of new carrots with good eating qualities.
Antioxidant Effect of Poleo and Oregano Essential Oil on Roasted Sunflower Seeds
Authors: Quiroga Patricia R. , Grosso Nelson R. , Nepote Valeria
Published: November 2013

The objective was to evaluate the stability of sensory and chemical parameters in roasted sunflower seeds supplemented with oregano and poleo essential oils; and the consumer acceptability of this product. Four samples were prepared: plain roasted sunflower seeds (Control = RS‐C), and sunflower seeds added with oregano (RS‐O) or poleo (RS‐P) essential oils or BHT (RS‐BHT). Consumer acceptance was determined on fresh samples. The overall acceptance averages were 6.13 for RS‐C, 5.62 for RS‐P, and 5.50 for RS‐O (9‐point hedonic scale). The addition of BHT showed greater protection against the oxidation process in the roasted sunflower seeds. Oregano essential oil exhibited a greater antioxidant effect during storage than poleo essential oil. Both essential oils (oregano and poleo) provided protection to the product, inhibiting the formation of undesirable flavors (oxidized and cardboard). The antioxidant activity that presents essential oils of oregano and poleo could be used to preserve roasted sunflower seeds.
A novel integrative method for measuring body condition in ecological studies based on physiological dysregulation
Authors: Milot Emmanuel , Cohen Alan A. , Vézina François , Buehler Deborah M. , Matson Kevin D. , Piersma Theunis
Published: November 2013

The body condition of free‐ranging animals affects their response to stress, decisions, ability to fulfil vital needs and, ultimately, fitness. However, this key attribute in ecology remains difficult to assess, and there is a clear need for more integrative measures than the common univariate proxies.

We propose a systems biology approach that positions individuals along a gradient from a ‘normal/optimal’ to ‘abnormal/suboptimal’ physiological state based on Mahalanobis distance computed from physiological biomarkers. We previously demonstrated the validity of this approach for studying ageing in humans; here, we illustrate its broad potential for ecological studies.

As an example, we used biomarker data on shorebirds and found that birds with an abnormal condition had a lower maximal thermogenic capacity and higher scores of inflammation, with important implications for their ecology and health. Moreover, Mahalanobis distance captured a signal of condition not detected by the individual biomarkers.

Overall, our results on birds and humans show that individuals with abnormal physiologies are indeed in worse condition. Moreover, our approach appears not to be particularly sensitive to which set of biomarkers is used to assess condition. Consequently, it could be applied easily to existing ecological data sets.

Our approach provides a general, powerful way to measure condition that helps resolve confusion as to how to deal with complex interactions and interdependence among multiple physiological and condition measures. It can be applied directly to topics such as the effect of environmental quality on body condition, risks of health outcomes, mechanisms of adaptive phenotypic plasticity, and mechanisms behind long‐term processes such as senescence.
Testicular migration chronology: do the right and the left testes migrate at the same time? Analysis of 164 human fetuses
Authors: Favorito Luciano A. , Sampaio Francisco J.B.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To determine if the right and the left testes migrate at the same time during the human fetal period.

Subjects and Methods

We studied 164 human fetuses (328 testes) ranging in age from 12 to 35 weeks post‐conception. The fetuses were carefully dissected with the aid of a stereoscopic lens at ×16/25. The abdomen and pelvis were opened to identify and expose the urogenital organs. Testicular position was classified as: (a) Abdominal, when the testis was proximal to the internal ring; (b) Inguinal, when it was found between the internal and external inguinal rings); and (c) Scrotal, when it was inside the scrotum.

Results

The testes were abdominal in 71% of the cases, inguinal in 9.41%, and scrotal in 19.81%. There was asymmetry in testicular migration in nine cases (5.5%). In three of these nine cases, one testis was situated in the abdomen and the other in the inguinal canal; in another three one testis was situated in the abdomen and the other in the scrotum, and in the remaining three, one testis was in the inguinal canal and the other in the scrotum. In five of the nine cases of asymmetry, the right testis completed the migration first, but this was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Asymmetry in testicular migration is a rare event, accounting for <6% of the cases. The right testis seems to complete migration first.
The relevance of time series in molecular ecology and conservation biology
Authors: Habel Jan C. , Husemann Martin , Finger Aline , Danley Patrick D. , Zachos Frank E.
Published: November 2013

The genetic structure of a species is shaped by the interaction of contemporary and historical factors. Analyses of individuals from the same population sampled at different points in time can help to disentangle the effects of current and historical forces and facilitate the understanding of the forces driving the differentiation of populations. The use of such time series allows for the exploration of changes at the population and intraspecific levels over time. Material from museum collections plays a key role in understanding and evaluating observed population structures, especially if large numbers of individuals have been sampled from the same locations at multiple time points. In these cases, changes in population structure can be assessed empirically. The development of new molecular markers relying on short DNA fragments (such as microsatellites or single nucleotide polymorphisms) allows for the analysis of long‐preserved and partially degraded samples. Recently developed techniques to construct genome libraries with a reduced complexity and next generation sequencing and their associated analysis pipelines have the potential to facilitate marker development and genotyping in non‐model species. In this review, we discuss the problems with sampling and available marker systems for historical specimens and demonstrate that temporal comparative studies are crucial for the estimation of important population genetic parameters and to measure empirically the effects of recent habitat alteration. While many of these analyses can be performed with samples taken at a single point in time, the measurements are more robust if multiple points in time are studied. Furthermore, examining the effects of habitat alteration, population declines, and population bottlenecks is only possible if samples before and after the respective events are included.
SAaaS: a cloud computing service model using semantic‐based agent
Authors: Hsu I‐Ching , Cheng Feng‐Qi
Published: November 2013

Cloud computing, a common business model, provides cloud resources on demand to consumers over the Internet. However, because cloud computing lacks a uniform method of representing knowledge, which can offer customers a comprehensive solution for managing and developing cloud applications, cloud computing has low reuse potential. This work proposes a Semantic Agent as a Service (SAaaS), which was developed using Unified Modeling Language modelling. The SAaaS architecture is based on research into Cloud Computing, Semantic Web and Multi‐Agent Systems. The architecture can be combined with existing cloud service models, such as Software as a Service, Platform as a Service and Infrastructure as a Service, to design intelligent cloud computing applications. To demonstrate the efficacy of SAaaS, a Semantic‐based Project Resources Sharing Platform, an intelligent cloud computing application based on the SAaaS framework, is implemented to provide project resources on demand, consistent with the needs of project members.
Deleterious effect of triple antibiotic paste on human periodontal ligament fibroblasts
Authors: Yadlapati M. , Souza L. C. , Dorn S. , Garlet G. P. , Letra A. , Silva R. M.
Published: November 2013

Aim

To evaluate the cytotoxic effects of triple antibiotic paste (TAP), double antibiotic paste (DAP), minocycline and calcium hydroxide and their influence on cytokine mRNA expression levels on human periodontal ligament (HPDL) fibroblasts.

Methodology

Triple antibiotic paste, DAP and Ca(OH)2 test samples were immersed in culture medium and incubated at 37 °C for 24 and 48 h. HPDL cells were seeded at a density of 2 × 104 cells and exposed to either culture media (negative control), 0.1% SDS (positive control), 24‐ or 48‐h elutes of each test material and incubated for 24 h. A multiparametric cytotoxicity assay kit (XTT, NR and CVDE) was used to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of each test material. Results were analysed using an ELISA plate reader and light absorbances of 450 and 530 nm as references. Cytokine mRNA expression levels in HPDL cells treated with the materials were also investigated using real‐time PCR. Expression levels were calculated using the comparative 2−ΔΔCt method. Statistical analyses included anova followed by Bonferroni correction.

Results

Triple antibiotic paste and minocycline were the most cytotoxic materials when compared with DAP and Ca(OH)2 in all three (XTT, NR and CVDE) assays (P < 0.0001). No significant differences (P > 0.05) were found for cytokine gene expression levels after exposure to 24‐ or 48‐h elutes of any of the materials except for IL6, which had significantly higher mRNA levels with the 24‐h TAP elute (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Ca(OH)2 had a minimal effect on cell viability and cytokine production. The TAP showed deleterious effects on HPDL viability and increased expression of the pro‐inflammatory cytokine IL6.
Docetaxel, cisplatin and 5‐fluorouracil chemotherapy with concurrent radiation for unresectable advanced urethral carcinoma
Authors: Itoh Jun , Mitsuzuka Koji , Kimura Shingo , Tanaka Takaki , Yamamuro Taku , Yamashita Shinichi , Yamada Shigeyuki , Saito Hideo , Kaiho Yasuhiro , Arai Yoichi
Published: November 2013

The present case report describes two cases of unresectable advanced primary urethral carcinoma. Case 1 was a 61‐year‐old man with squamous cell carcinoma of the urethra that directly invaded into the perineal skin. Case 2 was a 64‐year‐old woman with adenocarcinoma, and solitary lung and lymph node metastases. Both patients received docetaxel/cisplatin/5‐fluorouracil chemotherapy with concurrent radiation. The docetaxel/cisplatin/5‐fluorouracil chemotherapy regimen consisted of docetaxel (75 mg/m2) on day 2, cisplatin (100 mg/m2) on day 2 and 5‐fluorouracil (1000 mg/m2) on days 1 to 5 and was repeated every 4 weeks. Complete response was achieved after two cycles of chemotherapy combined with radiation in case 1. In case 2, complete response was achieved locally after six cycles of chemotherapy combined with radiation, but the solitary lung lesion remained viable. We experienced two cases with advanced urethral carcinoma for whom docetaxel/cisplatin/5‐fluorouracil chemotherapy chemotherapy with radiation was effective.
Embedded Corporate Social Responsibility: Can't We Do Better Than GE, Intel, and IBM? How About a Benefit Corporation?
Authors: Sarason Yolanda , Hanley Grace
Published: November 2013

We agree with Aguinis and Glavas's (2013) conceptualization of embedded versus peripheral corporate social responsibility (CSR). Our concern is whether GE, Intel, and IBM are the best examples of companies with embedded CSR. We propose a more systematic identification of companies with embedded company-wide CSR. A source of exemplars may be aided in drawing upon companies that meet the criteria of “B Corps” or organize as “Benefit Corporations.” Patagonia and New Belgium Brewing Company are provided as examples of “B Corp” companies that utilize core competencies to create company-wide embedded CSR.
A Role for Ombuds in Embedded Corporate Social Responsibility Processes?
Authors: Ulrich Zachary P.
Published: November 2013

My purpose here is to suggest that the often-overlooked organizational ombudsman (OO) role can and should become an influential component of embedded corporate social responsibility (CSR) processes as defined by Aguinis and Glavas (2013). An OO is an employee who works with individuals and groups to help resolve conflicts inside or outside of an organization and who brings systemic concerns to the attention of organizational leadership (Howard, 2010). An OO does this while maintaining the confidentiality of office visitors, operating from a stance of neutrality and impartiality, remaining independent of formal organizational structures, and not adjudicating disputes or otherwise making policy recommendations regarding conflicts (International Ombudsman Association, 2013; Ziegenfuss & O'Rourke, 2011).
No CPR for CSR: A Call to Abandon Search for the “Holy Grail”
Authors: Aldag Ramon J.
Published: November 2013

Aguinis and Glavas (2013) offer a new attempt to explain the consistently weak but consistently inconsistent findings regarding the relationship of corporate social responsibility (CSR) to financial performance. Like many others writing in the field, Aguinis and Glavas appear to believe that further efforts to categorize types of CSR will somehow identify CSR forms that are financially rewarding. In this response, I challenge four assumptions underlying the Aguinis and Glavas manuscript: (a) that CSR has received little attention in the micro literature; (b) that CSR can be meaningfully conceptualized and operationalized; (c) that a continued search for the “holy grail” of a CSR–financial performance link is likely to be fruitful; and (d) that the “peripheral–embedded” distinction is useful and appropriate.
SAVING ENERGY THROUGH BETTER INFORMATION: A NEW ENERGY PARADIGM?
Authors: BERNSTEIN MARK , COLLINS MYLES
Published: November 2013

For the past 40 years, governments, utilities, and private companies have developed increasingly efficient appliances for household use and governments have initiated policies to encourage the deployment of these technologies. To the credit of these activities, we have improved the efficiency of electricity use in the United States, but it has not been enough to overcome the increasing demand from proliferation of electricity‐using devices. In addition, penetration rates for some types of efficient equipment have remained relatively low in certain regions. U.S. electricity demand thus continues to grow. In this paper, we argue that to achieve significantly greater efficiency improvements needed to meet future demand for energy services, we should provide more information to consumers about their energy use and give them more control over this use. While more studies are needed to assess just how far these types of measures can take us, there is enough evidence to show that with better information, consumers often make choices that reduce energy use.
Testing an extended theory of planned behavior to predict young people's intentions to join a bone marrow donor registry
Authors: Hyde Melissa K. , White Katherine M.
Published: November 2013

An extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) was used to understand the factors, particularly control perceptions and affective reactions, given conflicting findings in previous research, informing younger people's intentions to join a bone marrow registry. Participants (N = 174) completed attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control (PBC), moral norm, anticipated regret, self‐identity, and intention items for registering. The extended TPB (except PBC) explained 67.2% of variance in intention. Further testing is needed as to the volitional nature of registering. Moral norm, anticipated regret, and self‐identity are likely intervention targets for increasing younger people's bone marrow registry participation.
Continuous infusion of propofol or intermittent bolus of tiletamine‐zolazepam in feline night monkeys (Aotus infulatus)
Authors: Galante Rafaela , Muniz José A.P.C. , Castro Paulo H.G. , Amora Dorli S. , Gris Vanessa N. , Carvalho Elizabeth R. , Vilani Ricardo G.D′O.C.
Published: November 2013

Background

Although commonly used, dissociative anesthesia results in unsatisfactory and long recovery periods. The intravenous anesthetic propofol seems to be the most advantageous solution. The objectives of this study were to investigate the required infusion rate of propofol to maintain surgical anesthesia and to compare it to tiletamine‐zolazepam in Aotus infulatus.

Methods

Eight healthy feline night monkeys were anesthetized with propofol (PRO) or tiletamine‐zolazepam (TZ) during 60 minutes. Cardiopulmonary parameters, arterial blood gases and lactate and quality and times to recovery were determined.

Results

Mean infusion rate of propofol was 0.53 ± 0.10 mg/kg/minute. Cardiopulmonary effects did not show marked differences between groups. Times for hanging, ventral recumbency, and normal ambulation were lower in PRO. Establishment of desirable anesthetic depth was easier, recovery quality was superior, and lactate levels were lower in PRO.

Conclusions

Compared with tiletamine‐zolazepam, minor post‐anesthetic adverse events should be expected with propofol anesthesia, as well as faster and better anesthetic recovery.
Basilar Artery Thrombus vs. Fenestration: A Differential Diagnostic Challenge in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Palazzo Paola , Ruff Michael , Lyerly Michael J. , Alexandrov Andrei V.
Published: November 2013

We present a case of a man presenting with vertigo and nausea who was found to have multifocal infarcts in the posterior circulation on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) demonstrated focal widening and central signal dropout in the distal vertebral artery consistent with arterial fenestration. Transcranial Doppler ultrasonography showed turbulent flow and a spike waveform suggestive of an intra‐luminal thrombus. This was confirmed by computed tomography (CT) angiography. Following the initiation of dual antiplatelet therapy, the signal abnormalities on transcranial doppler (TCD) resolved suggesting dissolution of the thrombus. This case highlights the diagnostic pitfalls that may arise when relying on only one modality for assessing intracranial vasculature and the importance of clarifying the diagnosis of basilar thrombosis or fenestration.