bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two‐Dimensional Spatial and Temporal Variation of Soil Physical Properties in Tillage Systems Using Electrical Resistivity Tomography
Authors: Basso Bruno , Amato Mariana , Bitella Giovanni , Rossi Roberta , Kravchenko Alexandra , Sartori Luigi , Carvahlo Lucila M. , Gomes João
Published: March 2010

The objective of this research was to assess the effects of different tillage systems on the spatial and temporal variation of soil resistivity and soil features related to resistance to penetration and porosity using Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT). Two‐dimensional (vertical and horizontal) ERT was performed on long‐term conventional deep tillage (CT), minimum tillage (MT), no‐tillage (NT), and by tilling a no‐till plot (freshly tilled no‐till [FTNT]). The tillage treatments were compared in two different studies with measurements taken at different scale and with two different sampling configurations. The first study consisted of ERT measured on a 5.75 m linear transect with horizontal and vertical high resolution measurements and a second study performed at the field scale using an on‐the‐go automatic resistivity profile. The on‐the‐go equipment collected data simultaneously at three different depths (50, 100, 200 cm) and data were referenced by differential global positioning systems (DGPS). Total variation in soil resistivity was significantly explained by tillage treatment and soil depth and by their interaction. The response of soil resistivity to tillage was able to significantly discern between tilled and untilled soil, and between FTNT and the old tillage. Soil resistance to penetration also allowed to detect highly significant differences between the untilled and other treatments at 5 cm, but did not discriminate between FTNT and the other tilled treatments, due to high variability. The automatic resistivity profiling (ARP) measurements were affected by fresh tillage, given the strong response of resistivity to soil bulk density for the first layer.
Timing of Semisolid Dairy Manure Applications Does Not Affect Yield and Quality of Orchardgrass
Authors: Cherney Jerome H. , Ketterings Quirine M. , Cherney Debbie J. , Davis Michael H.
Published: March 2010

We studied the impact of semisolid dairy manure application rate and timing on yield and nutritive value of orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.). Manure was applied at spring greenup and after all three harvests in seven treatment combinations, not exceeding 44.8 Mg ha−1 per application during the growing season. Recommended rate of N fertilizer was also included as a treatment, and all treatments were applied for five growing seasons. A three‐cut system was used, producing suitable forage for lactating dairy cows for cuts 1 and 2. Average dry matter (DM) yields for total seasonal manure applications of 44.8, 67.2, and 89.6 Mg ha−1 were 7.02, 7.89, and 9.10 Mg ha−1, respectively. There was no significant effect of timing of manure applications on total DM yield, although there was a tendency for lower yields when manure was applied in the autumn. Manure applied at the seasonal rate of 179.2 Mg ha−1 resulted in greater DM yields than N fertilization by the second year of the study. Neither application rate nor timing of manure application had an impact on forage nutritive value. Strong correlations of neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD), relative forage quality (RFQ), and kg milk Mg−1 of forage DM (Milk Mg−1) with in vitro true digestibility (IVTD) suggest that NDFD, RFQ, and Milk Mg−1 provide little additional information beyond what is found in IVTD. We conclude that from a forage yield and nutritive value standpoint, timing of seasonal manure applications to orchardgrass is not a critical issue.
Corn Silage Growth and Yield after Application of Dairy Manure with High Copper Concentrations
Authors: Flis Sally A. , Ballard Catherine S. , Thomas Everett D. , Bosworth Sidney C. , Darrah Jeffrey W.
Published: March 2010

Dairy producers use footbaths containing CuSO4 for the prevention of papillomatous digital dermatitis. After cows (Bos taurus) have passed through the footbath, waste is usually disposed of into manure storages and applied to fields. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the effects of the application of high‐Cu dairy manure on growth and yield of corn (Zea mays L.) for silage and to evaluate the accumulation of Cu in the soil. Manure was collected, CuSO4 was added, and all plots received approximately 105.9 L of manure (53,572 L ha−1). A control (0.38 kg Cu ha−1), medium Cu (9.5 kg Cu ha−1), and high Cu (18.6 kg Cu ha−1) treatments were applied to the same plots in 2006 and 2007. An early maturity and late maturity corn hybrid was used each year. Soil samples from 0 to 15 cm were analyzed for solution, extractable, and total Cu. Soil samples from 15 to 46 cm were analyzed for solution and total Cu. The growth, yield, forage quality, and Cu concentration of corn were not affected by treatments. Soil extractable and total soil Cu increased linearly as Cu application increased (P < 0.001). Soil solution Cu increased as Cu treatment rate increased, but was not linear (P = 0.04). Solution and total soil Cu were not different as sampling depth increased. Two annual applications of high‐Cu dairy manure at rates relative to agronomic practices did not affect corn grown for silage and resulted in no vertical movement of Cu in the soil.
Information and Communication Technologies—Opportunities to Mobilize Agricultural Science for Development
Authors: Ballantyne Peter , Maru Ajit , Porcari Enrica M.
Published: March 2010

Knowledge, information, and data—and the social and physical infrastructures that carry them—are widely recognized as key building blocks for more sustainable agriculture, effective agricultural science, and productive partnerships among the global research community. Through investments in e‐Science infrastructure and collaboration on one hand, and rapid developments in digital devices and connectivity in rural areas, the ways that scientists, academics, and development workers create, share, and apply agricultural knowledge is being transformed through the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs). This paper examines some trends and opportunities associated with the use of these ICTs in agricultural science for development.
Development Perspectives Of The Biobased Economy: A Review
Authors: Langeveld J. W. A. , Dixon J. , Jaworski J. F.
Published: March 2010

This paper provides an outline of the biobased economy, its perspectives for agriculture and, more particularly, for development purposes. Possibilities of development of biobased products, advanced biofuels, and viable and efficient biorefinery concepts are explored. The paper lists non‐fuel bioproducts (e.g., chemicals, pharmaceuticals, biopolymers) and presents basic principles and development options for biorefineries that can be used to generate them alongside biofuels, power, and by‐products. One of the main challenges is to capture more value from existing crops without compromising the needs and possibilities of small‐scale, less endowed farmers. Biobased products offer the most development perspectives, combining large market volumes with medium to high price levels. Consequently, the most can be expected from products like fine chemicals, lubricants, and solvents. In addition, biosolar cells can help to relax pressures on biomass production systems while decentralized production chains can serve local needs for energy, materials, and nutrients as their requirement for viable economic development are linked to larger markets. Research challenges include development of such production and market chains, and of biosolar cells and selection of model crops that offer perspectives for less favored producers and underdeveloped rural areas.
Biofortification—A Sustainable Agricultural Strategy for Reducing Micronutrient Malnutrition in the Global South
Authors: Bouis Howarth E. , Welch Ross M.
Published: March 2010

Minerals and vitamins in food staples eaten widely by the poor may be increased either through conventional plant breeding or through use of transgenic techniques, a process known as biofortification HarvestPlus seeks to develop and distribute cultivars of food staples (rice [Oryza sativa L.], wheat [Triticum aestivum L.], maize [Zea mays L.], cassava [Manihot esculenta Crantz], pearl millet [Pennisetum americanum Leeke], beans [Phaseolus vulgaris L.], sweet potato [Ipomoea batatas L.]) that are high in Fe, Zn, and provitamin A through an interdisciplinary global alliance of scientific institutions and implementing agencies in developing and developed countries. Biofortified crops offer a rural‐based intervention that, by design, initially reaches these more remote populations, which comprise a majority of the undernourished in many countries, and then penetrates to urban populations as production surpluses are marketed. Thus, biofortification complements fortification and supplementation programs, which work best in centralized urban areas and then reach into rural areas with good infrastructure. Initial investments in agricultural research at a central location can generate high recurrent benefits at low cost as adapted biofortified cultivars become widely available in countries across time at low recurrent costs. Overall, three things must happen for biofortification to be successful. First, the breeding must be successful—high nutrient density must be combined with high yields and high profitability. Second, efficacy must be demonstrated—the micronutrient status of human subjects must be shown to improve when consuming the biofortified cultivars as normally eaten. Third, the biofortified crops must be adopted by farmers and consumed by those suffering from micronutrient malnutrition in significant numbers.
Rapid Determination of Gene Function by Virus‐induced Gene Silencing in Wheat and Barley
Authors: Cakir Cahid , Gillespie Megan E. , Scofield Steven R.
Published: March 2010

The cereal crops are essential components to the human and animal food supply. Solutions to many of the problems challenging cereal production will require identification of genes responsible for particular traits. Unfortunately, the process of identifying gene function is very slow and complex in crop plants. In wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), this process is made very difficult by the very large size and complexity of their genomes and the difficulty with which these crops can be genetically transformed. Additionally, the polyploidy of wheat greatly complicates any approach based on mutational analysis because functional, homeologous genes often mask genetic mutations. Virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) is an important new tool that overcomes many of these obstacles and promises to greatly facilitate the assessment of gene function. A VIGS system based on barley stripe mosaic virus (BSMV) has recently been developed for use in wheat and barley. The BSMV‐VIGS system allows researchers to switch‐off or “knockdown” the expression of chosen genes so that the gene's function may be inferred based on the knockout phenotypes. This article describes the characteristics of the BSMV‐VIGS system, relates examples of its application for functional genomics in wheat and barley, and discusses the strengths and weaknesses of this approach.
Enhancing Eco‐efficiency in Agro‐ecosystems through Soil Carbon Sequestration
Authors: Lal R.
Published: March 2010

Global cereal production must be increased by ∼50% by 2050. Crop yields in sub‐Saharan Africa and South Asia have either stagnated or declined since the 1990s because of the widespread use of extractive farming practices and problems of soil and environmental degradation. Yield potential of improved varieties and elite germplasm is not realized because of soil degradation. The concept of eco‐efficiency implies efficient and sustainable use of resources in agronomic production and soil management. However, it is not enough to merely minimize the environmental impact. It is also important to maximize agronomic production while enhancing ecosystem services. Most degraded and depleted soils of agro‐ecosystems contain a lower soil organic carbon (SOC) pool than in those under natural ecosystems. Thus, restoring the SOC pool is essential to improving soil quality, increasing eco‐efficiency, and enhancing numerous ecosystem services. Increasing the SOC pool in the root zone can enhance agronomic production (kg grains ha−1 Mg C−1) at the rate of 200 to 300 for maize (Zea mays L.), 30 to 60 for bean (Phaseolis vulgaris L.), 20 to 40 for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), 20 to 50 for soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], and 20 to 50 for rice (Oryza sativa L.). Not all improved management practices are applicable to all soil and ecological conditions. However, no‐till farming along with application of crop residue mulch, manuring, legume‐based complex rotations, and integrated nutrient management should be applicable under most conditions. Global food insecurity, affecting 1.02 billion people in 2009, can only be alleviated by improving soil quality and eco‐efficiency through restoration of degraded/depleted soils.
Optimized St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) Germplasm Lines Exert Cytotoxicity in HT-29 Colon Cancer Cells via Downregulation of NF-?B
Authors: Jain Swati S , Murch Susan J , Bird Ranjana P , Saxena Praveen K
Published: March 2010

Extracts of two germplasm lines of St. Johns wort (SJW; Hypericum perforatum L.) selected for enhanced hypericin and hyperforin content were evaluated for potential activity against colon cancer. Bioactivity was assessed in signaling pathways of tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-?) and nuclear transcription factor-?B (NF-?B) in HT-29 colon cancer cells. Both extracts and the hypericin standard significantly inhibited growth of HT-29 cells. Levels of active NF-?B were reduced in cells treated with either of the plant extracts or hypericin, but the purified hyperforin standard was comparatively ineffective. The combination of TNF-? and SJW treatments had significantly higher cytotoxic effects, and reduced the expression of NF-?B, inhibitor of NF-?Bs (I?Ba), I?B kinase b (IKKb), and TNF receptor-1. These observations indicate the potential of SJW as a source of cancer therapies, including those that act synergistically with TNF-?. The phytochemical complexity of SJW tissues necessitates consistent, optimized plant extracts for optimal results and the data indicate that additional, possibly unidentified, phytochemicals from SJW have potential in the treatment or prevention of colon cancer.
From Policy-Taker to Policy-Shaper: The Europeanization of Italian Cohesion Policy
Authors: Brunazzo Marco
Published: March 2010

The article illustrates the two dynamics of Europeanization presented in the literature, the top-down and the bottom-up dynamics. In particular, the article presents how and when the top-down Europeanization can foster a more active presence of a country in the European arena. Taking Italy and its role in the reforms of European cohesion policy regulations as a case study, it shows how and why Italy has been able to overcome its role of EU policy-taker and become an EU policy-shaper.
Book Review of Lessons from the Poor: Triumph of the Entrepreneurial Spirit
Authors: Carter‐Tripp Marshall
Published: March 2010

Marshall Carter‐Tripp reviews this collection of essays and assesses its value as an addition to the economic development literature already in place.
Molybdatophosphoric acid as an efficient catalyst for the catalytic and chemoselective oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides using urea hydrogen peroxide as a commercially available oxidant
Authors: Hasaninejad Alireza , Zolfigol Mohammad , Chehardoli Gholamabbas , Mokhlesi Mohammad
Published: March 2010

An efficient procedure for the chemoselective oxidation of alkyl (aryl) sulfides to the corresponding sulfoxides using urea hydrogen peroxide (UHP) in the presence of a catalytic amount of molybdatophosphoric acid at room temperature is described. The advantages of described method are: generality, high yield and chemoselectivity, short reaction time, low cost and compliment with green chemistry protocols.
Prediction of the retention of β-diketonato complexes in TLC systems on silica gel by quantitative structure-retention relationships
Authors: Baosic Rada , Radojevic Ana , Tesic Zivoslav
Published: March 2010

Quantitative structure-retention relationships for a series of 30 mixed ?-diketonato complexes of cobalt(III), chromium(III) and ruthenium(III) were derived by multiple linear regression analyses using molecular descriptors obtained by quantum chemical calculations. The retention parameters were obtained by thin layer chromatography on silica gel using mono and two-component solvent systems. The molecular descriptors included in the multiple linear regression analysis were molecular weight, molecular volume, surface area, hydrophilic-lipophilic balance, percent hydrophilic surface area, dipole moment, polarizability, refractivity, energy of the highest occupied molecular orbital and energy of the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital. High agreement between the experimental and predicted retention parameters was obtained when polarizability and the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance were used as the molecular descriptors. Comparison of the models with those established on polyacrylonitrile showed that the structure of the sorbent is responsible for the chromatographic behaviour of the same compounds. The presented models can be used for the prediction of the retention of new solutes in screening chromatographic systems.
On the removal of s-triazine herbicides from waters using commercial low-cost granular carbons
Authors: Moreno Rojas , López Cardenete , Galvín Marín , Cordón Martínez , Mellado Rodríguez
Published: March 2010

The adsorption capacities of three low-cost granular active carbons, used in a water treatment facility for the removal of the triazine herbicides propazine, prometryn and prometon, was evaluated. Kinetic studies showed that the three carbon samples used could be suitable in practice for the treatment of moderate contents of the herbicides in contaminated waters. The apparent adsorption rate constants were calculated. Equilibrium studies showed that the data fit the Frumkin isotherm. The results show that in the adsorption process there are repulsive lateral interactions that depend mainly on the adsorbate molecules rather than the nature or distribution of the adsorption sites. Such lateral interactions seem to be established mainly between the isopropyl groups of adjacent molecules, being of the same order for the three molecules.
Preparation and morphology of porous SiO2 ceramics derived from fir flour templates
Authors: Zhong Li , Shi Tiejun , Guo Liying
Published: March 2010

The preparation of SiO2 ceramics with controllable porous structure from fir flour templates via sol-gel processing was investigated. The specific size the fir flour, which was treated with 20 % NaOH solution, was infiltrated with a low viscous silica sol and subsequently calcined in air, which resulted in the formation of highly porous SiO2 ceramics. X-Ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) were employed to investigate the microstructure and phase formation during processing as well as of the SiO2 ceramics. N2 adsorption measurements were used to analyze the pore size distributions (PSD) of the final ceramics. The results indicated that the surface topography was changed and the proportion of the amorphous material was increased in NaOH-treated fir flour. The final oxide products retained ordered structures of the pores and showed unique pore sizes and distributions with hierarchy on the nanoscale derived from the fir flour.
Polyaniline-multi-wall-carbon nanotube nanocomposites as a dopamine sensor
Authors: Sabzi Emamali , Rezapour Kamran , Samadi Naser
Published: March 2010

A composite of polyaniline with multi-wall-carbon nanotubes (PANi/MWCNTs) was synthesized by an in situ chemical oxidative polymerization method. The PANi nanoparticles were synthesized chemically using aniline as the monomer and ammonium peroxydisulfate as the oxidant. The nanocomposites were prepared as a carbon paste using functionalized MWCNTs and PANi nanoparticles. The PANi/MWCNTs were characterized physically using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the electrochemical behavior of the composites in acidic solution (HCl) was investigated using cyclic voltammetry. The PANi/MWCNT composite electrode was used for studying dopamine (DA) as an electroactive material. The cyclic voltammetric results indicated that multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) significantly enhanced the electrocatalytic activity in favor of the oxidation of DA. The kinetics of the catalytic reaction was investigated using the chronoamperometry technique whereby the average value of the diffusion coefficient (D), the catalytic rate constant (K) for DA and the transfer coefficient (?) were determined to be 7.98 ? 0.8 ? 10-7 cm2 s-1, 8.33 ? 0.072 ? 104 dm3 mol-1 s-1 and 0.42, respectively.
Essential oil composition of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. cultivated in the mid hills of Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Verma Ram , Rahman Laiq , Chanotiya Chandan , Verma Rajesh , Chauhan Amit , Yadav Anju , Singh Anand , Yadav Ajai
Published: March 2010

The essential oil content in the inflorescence of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.) cultivated in the mid hills of Uttarakhand was found to be 2.8 % based on the fresh weight. The oil was analysed by capillary GC and GC- MS. Thirty seven constituents, representing 97.81 % of the oil were identified. The major components of the oil were linalyl acetate (47.56 %), linalool (28.06 %), lavandulyl acetate (4.34 %) and ?-terpineol (3.75 %). The quality of lavender oil produced in India was found to be comparable to that produced in Hungary, France, China, Bulgaria, Russia and the USA.
Digital holographic reconstruction detection of localized corrosion arising from scratches
Authors: Wang Liang , Chen Shenhao , Yuan Boyu , Meng Fanjiang , Wang Jianqiu , Wang Chao , Liang Li
Published: March 2010

In this study, electrochemical methods and the digital holographic reconstruction technique were combined to detect the localized scratch-induced corrosion process of Alloy 690 in 0.5 mol dm-3 H2SO4 containing 0.1 mol dm-3 NaCl. The numerical reconstruction method has been proved to be an effective technique to detect changes of solution concentration. It can obtain direct information from the reconstructed images and capture subtle more revealing changes. It provides a method to detect localized corrosion arising from scratches.
Hexamethylenetetramine reaction with graphite oxide (GO) as a strategy to increase the thermal stability of GO: Synthesis and characterization of a compound
Authors: de Fariasa , Airoldib Claudio
Published: March 2010

In this paper, the synthesis and characterization of a GO-hmta compound (GO = graphite oxide; hmta = hexamethylenetetramine) are presented. It is shown that the presence of hmta molecules inside the GO matrix, with very strong interactions, stabilize the GO matrix from a thermal point of view. Such a fact could be used to explore possible applications of GO matrix, especially in catalysis.
Enumeration of a class of IPR hetero-fullerenes
Authors: Ashrafi Ali , Ghorbani Modjtaba
Published: March 2010

Hetero-fullerenes are fullerenes in which some of the carbon atoms are replaced by other atoms. This paper uses the P?lya theorem to count the number of their possible positional isomers and chiral isomers. To do this, the computer algebra system GAP was applied to compute this number for a class of IPR hetero-fullerenes with Ih point group symmetry. These fullerenes were constructed by means of the leapfrog principle.
Evaluation of the oxidative activity of some free base porphyrins by a chemiluminescence method
Authors: Voicescu Mariana , Ion Rodica , Meghea Aurelia
Published: March 2010

Due to their spectral characteristics, phototoxicity and high affinity for tumour tissues, porphyrins and their derivatives are widely used in modern medicine as contrast agents for cancer diagnostics and as sensitizers in photodynamic therapy, where they kill tumours via enhancement of tumour oxidative stress. The aim of this work was to simulate in vitro the effects caused by oxidation of two free base porphyrins, 5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP) and 5,10,15,20-tetra(4-methoxyphenyl)porphyrin (TMOPP). The kinetic study was monitored using spectral techniques and chemiluminescence. The effect of both porphyrins on an oxidation process was evidenced using the chemiluminescent system, luminal-hydrogen peroxide, in a phosphate buffer at pH 7. It was found that at low concentration, TPP exerts the anti-oxidative effect in the employed chemiluminescent system, while at higher concentrations, its effect is pro-oxidative. TMOPP exerts a pro-oxidant effect, which was more pronounced than TPP. The results are discussed with respect to oxidative stress.
Effects of autoclaving and pullulanase debranching on the resistant starch yield of normal maize starch
Authors: Milasinovic Marija , Radosavljevic Milica , Dokic Ljubica
Published: March 2010

In this study, resistant starch (RS), type 3, was prepared by the autoclaving and debranching of normal maize starch isolated from a selected ZP genotype. The objectives of this study were to optimize both starch autoclaving and debranching with pullulanase (PromozymeBrewQ) for the production of RS. Autoclaving at 120?C (30 min) increased the RS content of all samples, whereas freezing at -20?C did not have an obvious effect on the RS contents. The highest RS yield in the autoclaved starch samples was 7.0 % after three autoclaving-cooling cycles. After pullulanase debranching at 50?C and retrogradation at 4?C, the RS yields ranged from 10.2% to 25.5 % in all samples (depending on the hydrolysis time). Debranched starch samples with a maximum RS yield of 25.5 % were obtained after a debranching time of 24 h. This study showed that starch from the selected ZP maize genotype is suitable for pullulanase treatment and RS preparation but that additional studies with a greater number of different treatments (incubation time/temperature) are necessary to manipulate and promote crystallization and enhance RS formation.
Macrocyclic complexes: Synthesis and characterization
Authors: Singh Dharmpal , Kumar Krishan
Published: March 2010

A novel series of complexes of the type [M(C28H24N4)X]X2, where M = Cr(III), Fe(III) or Mn(III), X = Cl?, NO3 ?, CH3COO? and (C28H24N4) corresponds to the tetradentate macrocyclic ligand, were synthesized in methanolic media by the template condensation of 1,8-diaminonaphthalene and 2,3- butanedione (diacetyl) in the presence of trivalent metal salts. The complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, conductance and magnetic measurements, and UV/Vis, NMR and IR spectroscopy. Based on these studies, a five-coordinate square pyramidal geometry for all the prepared complexes is proposed. All the synthesized macrocyclic complexes were tested for their in vitro antifungal activity against some fungal strains viz. Aspergillus niger and A. fumigatus. The results obtained were compared with the standard antifungal drug fluconazole.
Resistance of wood of European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) trees representing various health conditions to decay caused by fungi
Authors: Szczepkowski Andrzej
Published: March 2010

Odporność drewna buka zwyczajnego (Fagus syłvaticaL.), z drzew o zróżnicowanym stanie zdrowotnym, na rozkład powodowany przez grzyby
Competitive exclusion: A biological model applied to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict
Authors: Urban J. Kristen
Published: March 2010

The Principle of Competitive Exclusion, first articulated by Gause in 1934, states that two species or populations cannot inhabit the sameniche:one will consistently out-compete the other. Of four possible outcomes, the logistic equations that describe such interaction present only one possibility for coexistence, that being when the density-dependent mechanisms of one population become activated before intergroup competition eliminates the other. In applying Gause's Principle as an explanatory model to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, this research explores the present bantustanization of the West Bank as a logical outcome of interspecific competition, but sees the competition coefficients of the equations as the key factors in promoting a stable equilibrium.
Future Interior: Subjective (A)voidance in John Updike's “Rabbit” Novels
Authors: Jarraway David R.
Published: March 2010

Abstract:

In Rabbit Is Rich (1981), John Updike's use of Wallace Stevens's “Rabbit as King of the Ghosts” crystallizes what American literature in a (post-)Freudian age is particularly prone: ego is no longer master in his own house. Lacan's observation, therefore, that “[w]hat is realized in my history is not the past definite of what it was … but the future anterior of what I am in the process of becoming” will serve as a theoretical frame within which to critique the suspect future “interior” of “Rabbit” Angstrom throughout Updike's novel quartet.
Politics on Ice: The United States, the Soviet Union, and a Hockey Game in Lake Placid
Authors: Abelson Donald E.
Published: March 2010

Abstract:

This paper explores the intersection of sport and politics by examining how and to what extent the 1980 US Men's Hockey Team's gold medal victory in Lake Placid was catapulted from the hockey arena to the political arena.
Early optical detection of cerebral edema in vivo
Authors: Gill Amandip S. , Rajneesh Kiran F. , Owen Christopher M. , Yeh James , Hsu Mike , Binder Devin K.
Published: March 2010

Object

Cerebral edema is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in diverse disease states. Currently, the means to detect progressive cerebral edema in vivo includes the use of intracranial pressure (ICP) monitors and/or serial radiological studies. However, ICP measurements exhibit a high degree of variability, and ICP monitors detect edema only after it becomes sufficient to significantly raise ICP. The authors report the development of 2 distinct minimally invasive fiberoptic near-infrared (NIR) techniques able to directly detect early cerebral edema.

Methods

Cytotoxic brain edema was induced in adult CD1 mice via water intoxication by intraperitoneal water administration (30% body weight intraperitoneally). An implantable dual-fiberoptic probe was stereotactically placed into the cerebral cortex and connected to optical source and detector hardware. Optical sources consisted of either broadband halogen illumination or a single-wavelength NIR laser diode, and the detector was a sensitive NIR spectrometer or optical power meter. In one subset of animals, a left-sided craniectomy was performed to obtain cortical biopsies for water-content determination to verify cerebral edema. In another subset of animals, an ICP transducer was placed on the contralateral cortex, which was synchronized to a computer and time stamped.

Results

Using either broadband illumination with NIR spectroscopy or single-wavelength laser diode illumination with optical power meter detection, the authors detected a reduction in NIR optical reflectance during early cerebral edema. The time intervals between water injection (Time Point 0), optical trigger (defined as a 2-SD change in optical reflectance from baseline), and defined threshold ICP values of 10, 15 and 20 mm Hg were calculated. Reduction in NIR reflectance occurred significantly earlier than any of the ICP thresholds (p < 0.001). Saline-injected control mice exhibited a steady baseline optical signal. There was a significant correlation between reflectance change and tissue specific gravity of the cortical biopsies, further validating the dual-fiberoptic probe as a direct measure of cerebral edema.

Conclusions

Compared with traditional ICP monitoring, the aforementioned minimally invasive NIR techniques allow for the significantly earlier detection of cerebral edema, which may be of clinical utility in the identification and thus early treatment of cerebral edema.
Procedural Results and In-Hospital Adverse Outcomes Following Multivessel Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)
Authors: Hoque Md Harisul , Rahman Sufia , Siddique Md Abu , Ahsan Syed Ali , Ahmed CM , Zaman SM Mustafa , Mahmood Manzoor , Rahman Mukhlesur , Ahmed Md Khurshed
Published: March 2010

Several Studies have reported specific factors associated with increased risk of adverse outcome following balloon angioplasty. These factors include advanced age, female Sex, unstable angina, congestive heart failure, diabetes and multivessel Coronary artery disease. By this time, Studies have been shown the remarkable procedural success & minimum adverse outcomes following multivessel stenting. This comparative observational study shows no death, procedural MI, tamponade, cerebrovascular accident, heart failure or cardiogenic shock, vascular access site complications like bleeding, A-V fistula in any group (single vessel stenting vs multivessel stenting). However, minor adverse events occurred at an overall rate of 6% in single vessel stenosis (SVS) group & 12% in multivessel stenosis (MVS) group. Procedural results were also similar in both groups. Angiographic success of 100% in the SVS group & 98% in the MVS group noted. The difference in the outcomes were between the two groups was not significant. Key Words: Adverse Outcomes; Multivessel Coronary Stenting; Procedural Results DOI: 10.3329/uhj.v5i2.4557 University Heart Journal Vol.5(2) July 2009 pp.66-70
The Secret Lives of Pluripotent Cells: There and Back Again
Authors: Cinelli Paolo
Published: March 2010

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs) hold great promise for the therapeutic treatment of human diseases, but their functional similarity, their stability and especially the mechanism underlying their derivation are not yet clearly explained. [...]
Accuracy of the Simplified Thylstrup & Fejerskov Index in Rural Communities with Endemic Fluorosis
Authors: Adelário Ana Karoline , Vilas-Novas Lívia F. , Castilho Lia S. , Vargas Andréa Maria D. , Ferreira Efigênia F. , Abreu Mauro Henrique N. G.
Published: March 2010

The aim of the present study was to compare the values of the Thylstrup & Fejerskov Index (TF index) for the determination of the prevalence of dental fluorosis using either all teeth (gold standard) or six upper anterior teeth (simplified TF index). The sample was made up of 396 individuals aged six to 22 years from three Brazilian cities with endemic fluorosis caused by the ingestion of water with high fluoride concentration. The prevalence of dental fluorosis was evaluated by a single trained examiner with excellent intraexaminer agreement (kappa = 0.95). Intraexaminer reproducibilities were calculated at tooth level. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of the simplified TF compared to gold standard were 90.6 (95%CI: 86.6 to 93.6), 100 (95%CI: 95.3 to 100), 100 (95%CI: 98.3 to 100) and 77.5 (95%CI: 69.8 to 83.5), respectively. The ROC value was 0.953 (95%CI: 0.933 to 0.973). The simplified TF index proved suitable for determining the prevalence of dental fluorosis in regions with endemic fluorosis caused by the ingestion of water with high concentrations of fluoride.
Effect of Soybean Variety on Anti-Nutritional Factors Content, and Growth Performance and Nutrients Metabolism in Rat
Authors: Gu Chunmei , Pan Hongbin , Sun Zewei , Qin Guixin
Published: March 2010

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of soybean varieties on content of anti-nutritional factors, growth, and nutrient digestibility in rat. For this purpose, the content of trypsin inhibitor and lectin was firstly measured in five soybean varieties. Then sixty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups and fed on different diets as follows: groups 1 to 5 were fed on treatment diets containing five different varieties of soybean flour; group 6 was fed on a control diet containing casein. All animals were fed for four weeks. During this period, faeces and urine were collected to determine the nutritional efficiency of diets and body weight were measured weekly on ten rats from each group. The results showed that trypsin inhibitor and lectin content of Jilin45 was the highest, and those of Jinong7 were the lowest of the soybean varieties. In comparison, all measured parameters, that is including gain in body weight, feed utilization efficiency, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balance and nitrogen retention, were markedly different among the five groups of animals, but were significantly lower than the control group. These findings show that soybean varieties could significantly affect trypsin inhibitor and lectin content in soybean.
(2-Chlorophenyl)-3-methylchromeno[2,3-c]pyrazol-4(1H)-one
Authors: Batezila Giselle , Holzer Wolfgang
Published: March 2010

The title compound was prepared by treatment of 1-(2-chlorophenyl)-3-methyl-2-pyrazolin-5-one with 2-chlorobenzoyl chloride / Ca(OH)2 in 1,4-dioxane and subsequent cyclization of the thus obtained 4-aroyl-5-hydroxypyrazole with sodium hydride in dry DMF. Detailed spectroscopic data (1H NMR, 13C NMR, 15N NMR, IR, MS) are presented.
Synthesis and Conformational Study of a Novel Macrocyclic Chiral(Salen) ligand and its Uranyl and Mn Complexes
Authors: Amato Maria E. , Ballistreri Francesco P. , Pappalardo Andrea , Tomaselli Gaetano A. , Toscano Rosa M.
Published: March 2010

A novel chiral macrocyclic ligand incorporating a chiral salen moiety into a framework containing two biphenyl units was synthesized. Structural properties and conformational aspects of the free ligand and an UO2 complex were studied by using NMR spectroscopy in solution and MM calculations. The Mn(III) complex was tested as catalyst in enantioselective oxidation of prochiral unfunctionalized olefins to the corresponding optically active epoxides under very mild conditions.
Novel Oxidative Ring Opening Reaction of 1H-Isotelluro-chromenes to Bis(o-formylstyryl) Ditellurides
Authors: Sashida Haruki , Satoh Hirohito , Ohyanagi Kazuo , Kaname Mamoru
Published: March 2010

The oxidation of 1-unsubstituted or 1-phenyl-1H-isotellurochromenes with m-chloroperbenzoic acid (mCPBA) in CHCl3 resulted in a ring opening reaction to produce as the sole products the corresponding o-formyl or benzoyl distyryl ditellurides, which were also produced by the hydrolysis of the 2-benzotelluropyrylium salts readily prepared from the parent isotellurochromene.
Synthesis of a New Chiral Pyrrolidine
Authors: Flores Mari Fe. , Núñez Marta G. , Moro Rosalina F. , Garrido Narciso M. , Marcos Isidro S. , Iglesias Enrique F. , García Pilar , Díez David
Published: March 2010

The synthesis of a new chiral pyrrolidine has been performed using 2,3-O-isopropylidene-D-erythronolactol as a suitable starting material.
Near-Space Microwave Radar Remote Sensing: Potentials and Challenge Analysis
Authors: Wang Wen-Qin , Cai Jingye , Peng Qicong
Published: March 2010

Near-space, defined as the region between 20 km and 100 km, offers many new capabilities that are not accessible to low earth orbit (LEO) satellites and airplanes, because it is above storm and not constrained by either the orbital mechanics of satellites or the high fuel consumption of airplanes. By placing radar transmitter/receiver in near-space platforms, many functions that are currently performed with satellites or airplanes could be performed in a cheaper way. Inspired by these advantages, this paper introduces several near-space vehicle-based radar configurations, such as near-space passive bistatic radar and high-resolution wide-swath (HRWS) synthetic aperture radar (SAR). Their potential applications, technical challenges and possible solutions are investigated. It is shown that near-space is a satisfactory solution to some specific remote sensing applications. Firstly, near-space passive bistatic radar using opportunistic illuminators offers a solution to persistent regional remote sensing, which is particularly interest for protecting homeland security or monitoring regional environment. Secondly, near-space provides an optimal solution to relative HRWS SAR imaging. Moreover, as motion compensation is a common technical challenge for the described radars, an active transponder-based motion compensation is also described.
Electrical Capacitance Volume Tomography: Design and Applications
Authors: Wang Fei , Marashdeh Qussai , Fan Liang-Shih , Warsito Warsito
Published: March 2010

This article reports recent advances and progress in the field of electrical capacitance volume tomography (ECVT). ECVT, developed from the two-dimensional electrical capacitance tomography (ECT), is a promising non-intrusive imaging technology that can provide real-time three-dimensional images of the sensing domain. Images are reconstructed from capacitance measurements acquired by electrodes placed on the outside boundary of the testing vessel. In this article, a review of progress on capacitance sensor design and applications to multi-phase flows is presented. The sensor shape, electrode configuration, and the number of electrodes that comprise three key elements of three-dimensional capacitance sensors are illustrated. The article also highlights applications of ECVT sensors on vessels of various sizes from 1 to 60 inches with complex geometries. Case studies are used to show the capability and validity of ECVT. The studies provide qualitative and quantitative real-time three-dimensional information of the measuring domain under study. Advantages of ECVT render it a favorable tool to be utilized for industrial applications and fundamental multi-phase flow research.
Construction of an Environmentally Sustainable Development on a Modified Coastal Sand Mined and Landfill Site—Part 2. Re-Establishing the Natural Ecosystems on the Reconstructed Beach Dunes
Authors: Clements AnneMarie , Simmonds Appollonia , Hazelton Pamela , Inwood Catherine , Woolcock Christy , Markovina Anne-Laure , O’Sullivan Pamela
Published: March 2010

Mimicking natural processes lead to progressive colonization and stabilization of the reconstructed beach dune ecosystem, as part of the ecologically sustainable development of Magenta Shores, on the central coast of New South Wales, Australia. The retained and enhanced incipient dune formed the first line of storm defence. Placement of fibrous Leptospermum windrows allowed wind blown sand to form crests and swales parallel to the beach. Burial of Spinifex seed head in the moist sand layer achieved primary colonization of the reconstructed dune and development of a soil fungal hyphae network prior to introduction of secondary colonizing species. Monitoring stakes were used as roosts by birds, promoting re-introduction of native plant species requiring germination by digestive tract stimulation. Bush regeneration reduced competition from weeds, allowing native vegetation cover to succeed. On-going weeding and monitoring are essential at Magenta Shores until bitou bush is controlled for the entire length of beach. The reconstructed dunes provide enhanced protection from sand movement and storm bite, for built assets, remnant significant vegetation and sensitive estuarine ecosystems.
A Pilot Study of Nuclear Instability in Archived Renal and Upper Urinary Tract Tumours with Putative Ochratoxin Aetiology
Authors: Mantle Peter G. , Amerasinghe Cyrille , Brown Amy L. , Herman Diana , Horn Thomas , Krogh Thoger , Odell Edward W. , Rosenbaum Tomas , Tatu Calin A.
Published: March 2010

DNA ploidy measurement has been applied uniquely to wax-embedded tissue of primary renal cell and metastatic tumours of a key experimental researcher on porcine ochratoxicosis, a control, and four transitional cell carcinomas from cases of Balkan endemic nephropathy. Primary renal tumour was diploid, and hyperdiploid metastasis was within the lower ploidy range for typical renal cell carcinoma. Three Balkan primary tumours showed extensive aneuploidy indicating marked nuclear instability, similar to model rat renal carcinoma caused by ochratoxin A. In contrast, much less nuclear instability in the putative occupational ochratoxicosis case fitted poorly with the ochratoxin A model.
Serodiagnosis of tuberculous lymphadenitis using a combination of antigens
Authors: Beyene Demissew , Lumc Franken Kees , Yamuah Lawrence , Aseffa Abraham , Wiker Harald G , Kolk Arend , Engers Howard , Klatser Paul , Sviland Lisbet
Published: March 2010

Background: The diagnosis of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) by conventional methods such as culture and microscopy has low sensitivity and requires an invasive procedure. A simple rapid serological test would be of great value. Methodology: Six antigens (ESAT-6, Ag85A, TB10.4, Rv3881c, lipoarabinomannan (LAM) and Ara6-BSA) were tested in an ELISA to detect antigen-specific IgG and IgM antibodies in sera from 54 culture- and histology-confirmed tuberculous lymphadenitis (TBLN) patients as follows: four were HIV seropositive; sera from 25 was smear positive for pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB); 15 were culture- and histology-negative lymphadenitis (non-TBLN) patients; and 22 werehealthy controls (HCs). Results: The sensitivities of the antigens for the detection of IgG in sera of TBLN patients ranged from 4% to 30%. Specificities ranged from 73% to 100% with sera from non-TBLN patients and 91% to 100% with sera from HCs. Sensitivities of the antigens for detection of IgM ranged from 0% to 15% and specificities ranged from 80% to 100% with sera from non-TBLN patients and 91% to 100% with sera from HCs. LAM was the most potent antigen for detection of IgG. When LAM and ESAT-6 were combined, sensitivity increased up to 43% and specificity with non-TBLN was 80% with HC 96%. Conclusions: The study suggests that the combined use of LAM and ESAT-6 for IgG antibody detection in sera from TBLN patients could be a supplement to microscopy of fine-needle aspirate (FNA) to diagnose TBLN among patients suspected of TBLN.
Compararative evaluation of rK9, rK26 and rK39 antigens in the serodiagnosis of Indian visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: Mohapatra Tribhuban Mohan , Singh Dharmendra Prasad , Sen Malay Ranjan , Bharti Kalpana , Sundar Shyam
Published: March 2010

Background: This study was designed for comparative evaluation of two relatively newer recombinant hydrophilic antigens, rK9 and rK26 of Leishmania chagasi along with rK39 (a 39-aminoacid-repetitive immunodominant B-cell epitope of kinesin-related antigen from L. chagasi) and crude soluble antigen (CSA) for the serodiagnosis of Indian visceral leishmaniasis (VL) patients by quantitative ELISA. Methodology: In the present study a total of 80 subjects comprising of 55 confirmed VL cases and 25 endemic controls (EC) were subjected to ELISA using four different antigens, namely rK9, rK26, rK39 and CSA (derived from  Leishmania donovani promastigotes). Results:  Sensitivity was as follows:  78% (95%CI 63-100%) for rK9, 38% (95%CI 28-59%) for rK26, 100% for rK39, and 80% (95% CI 65-100%) for CSA. The specificity of rK9, rK26, rK39 and CSA was found to be 84% (95%CI 61-100%), 80% (95%CI 56-100%), 96% (95%CI 75-100%) and 72% (95%CI 49-100%), respectively. Conclusions: rK39 was observed to be the most suitable antigen as compared to rK26 and rK9 whereas rK9 performed better than rK26. Hence rK9 antigen may either be used as an adjunct to rK39 for accurate diagnosis of VL or may be used in the absence or non-availability of rK39 antigen for the serodiagnosis.