bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blackpool central area coast protection scheme, UK
Authors: Cunningham Lee , Robertshaw Gareth , Pomfret Mike
Published: February 2012

The Blackpool central area coast protection scheme is the largest single UK coastal defence project completed in the past 10 years. The scheme is situated in a key location of this nationally important tourist destination. It has successfully addressed the dual aims of delivering significantly improved coastal defences and high-quality public realm as an integral part of a regeneration masterplan. This paper discusses the partnering approach adopted throughout the design and construction of the scheme together with identifying the key challenges that were addressed, enabling innovative engineering and construction solutions to be adopted which delivered considerable benefits in terms of aesthetic quality, constructability and durability.
Removal of Cryptosporidium and polystyrene microspheres from swimming pool water with sand, cartridge, and precoat filters
Authors: Amburgey James E. , Walsh Kimberly J. , Fielding Roy R. , Arrowood Michael J.
Published: February 2012

Cryptosporidium has caused the majority of waterborne disease outbreaks in treated recreational water venues in the USA for many years running. This research project evaluated some common US swimming pool filters for removing Cryptosporidium oocysts, 5-µm diameter polystyrene microspheres, and 1-µm diameter polystyrene microspheres. A 946 L hot tub with interchangeable sand, cartridge, and precoat filters was used at room temperature for this research. Simulated pool water for each experiment was created from Charlotte, NC (USA) tap water supplemented with alkalinity, hardness, chlorine, and a mixture of artificial sweat and urine. Precoat (i.e., diatomaceous earth and perlite) filters demonstrated pathogen removal efficiencies of 2.3 to 4.4 log (or 99.4–99.996%). However, sand and cartridge filters had average Cryptosporidium removals of 0.19 log (36%) or less. The combined low filter removal efficiencies of sand and cartridge filters along with the chlorine-resistant properties of Cryptosporidium oocysts could indicate a regulatory gap warranting further attention and having significant implications on the protection of public health in recreational water facilities. The 5-µm microspheres were a good surrogate for Cryptosporidium oocysts in this study and hold promise for use in future research projects, field trials, and/or product testing on swimming pool filters.
Characterization of microbial communities distributed in the groundwater pumped from deep tube wells in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal
Authors: Tanaka Yasuhiro , Nishida Kei , Nakamura Takashi , Chapagain Saroj Kumar , Inoue Daisuke , Sei Kazunari , Mori Kazuhiro , Sakamoto Yasushi , Kazama Futaba
Published: February 2012

Although groundwater is a major water supply source in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, it is known that the groundwater has significant microbial contamination exceeding the drinking water quality standard recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), and that this has been implicated in causing a variety of diseases among people living in the valley. However, little is known about the distribution of pathogenic microbes in the groundwater. Here, we analysed the microbial communities of the six water samples from deep tube wells by using the 16S rRNA gene sequences based culture-independent method. The analysis showed that the groundwater has been contaminated with various types of opportunistic microbes in addition to fecal microbes. Particularly, the clonal sequences related to the opportunistic microbes within the genus Acinetobacter were detected in all samples. As many strains of Acinetobacter are known as multi-drug resistant microbes that are currently spreading in the world, we conducted a molecular-based survey for detection of the gene encoding carbapenem-hydrolysing β-lactamase (blaoxa-23-like gene), which is a key enzyme responsible for multi-drug resistance, in the groundwater samples. Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using two specific primer sets for amplifying blaoxa-23-like gene indicated that two of six groundwater samples contain multi-drug resistant Acinetobacter.
Removal of estrogens and estrogenicity through drinking water treatment
Authors: Schenck Kathleen , Rosenblum Laura , Wiese Thomas E. , Wymer Larry , Dugan Nicholas , Williams Daniel , Mash Heath , Merriman Betty , Speth Thomas
Published: February 2012

Estrogenic compounds have been shown to be present in surface waters, leading to concerns over their possible presence in finished drinking waters. In this work, two in vitro human cell line bioassays for estrogenicity were used to evaluate the removal of estrogens through conventional drinking water treatment using a natural water. Bench-scale studies utilizing chlorine, alum coagulation, ferric chloride coagulation, and powdered activated carbon (PAC) were conducted using Ohio River water spiked with three estrogens, 17β-estradiol, 17α-ethynylestradiol, and estriol. Treatment of the estrogens with chlorine, either alone or with coagulant, resulted in approximately 98% reductions in the concentrations of the parent estrogens, accompanied by formation of by-products. The MVLN reporter gene and MCF-7 cell proliferation assays were used to characterize the estrogenic activity of the water before and after treatment. The observed estrogenic activities of the chlorinated samples showed that estrogenicity of the water was reduced commensurate with removal of the parent estrogen. Therefore, the estrogen chlorination by-products did not contribute appreciably to the estrogenic activity of the water. Coagulation alone did not result in significant removals of the estrogens. However, addition of PAC, at a typical drinking water plant dose, resulted in removals ranging from approximately 20 to 80%.
Disinfection efficacy of chlorine and peracetic acid alone or in combination against Aspergillus spp. and Candida albicans in drinking water
Authors: Sisti Maurizio , Brandi Giorgio , De Santi Mauro , Rinaldi Laura , Schiavano Giuditta F.
Published: February 2012

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the fungicidal activity of chlorine and peracetic acid in drinking water against various pathogenic Aspergillus spp. and Candida albicans strains. A. nidulans exhibited the greatest resistance, requiring 10 ppm of chlorine for 30 min contact time for a complete inactivation. Under the same experimental conditions, peracetic acid was even less fungicidal. In this case, A. niger proved to be the most resistant species (50 ppm for 60 min for complete inactivation). All Aspergillus spp. were insensitive to 10 ppm even with extended exposure (>5 h). The combination of chlorine and peracetic acid against Aspergillus spp. did not show synergistic effects except in the case of A. flavus. Complete growth inhibition of C. albicans was observed after about 3 h contact time with 0.2 ppm. C. albicans was less sensitive to peracetic acid. Hence the concentrations of chlorine that are usually present in drinking water distribution systems are ineffective against several Aspergillus spp. and peracetic acid cannot be considered an alternative to chlorine for disinfecting drinking water. The combination of the two biocides is not very effective in eliminating filamentous fungi at the concentrations permitted for drinking water disinfection.
Association of blood pressure and metabolic syndrome components with magnesium levels in drinking water in some Serbian municipalities
Authors: Rasic-Milutinovic Zorica , Perunicic-Pekovic Gordana , Jovanovic Dragana , Gluvic Zoran , Cankovic-Kadijevic Milce
Published: February 2012

Chronic exposure to insufficient levels of magnesium (Mg) in drinking water increases the risk of magnesium deficiency and its association with hypertension, dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The aim of the study was to assess the potential association of mineral contents in drinking water with blood pressure and other components of metabolic syndrome (MetS) (BMI as measure of obesity, triglycerides, glucose, and insulin resistance, index-HOMA IR), in a healthy population. This study was conducted in three randomly selected municipalities (Pozarevac, Grocka and Banovci), and recruited 90 healthy blood donors, aged 20–50 years. The Pozarevac area had a four times higher mean Mg level in drinking water (42 mg L−1) than Grocka (11 mg L−1). Diastolic blood pressure was lowest in subjects from Pozarevac. Serum Mg (sMg) was highest, and serum Ca2+/Mg (sCa/Mg) lowest in subjects from Pozarevac, and after adjustment for confounders (age, gender, BMI), only total cholesterol and sMg levels were independent predictors of diastolic blood pressure, sMg levels were independent predictors of triglycerides, and sCa/Mg predicted glucose levels. These results suggest that Mg supplementation in areas of lower magnesium levels in drinking water may be an important measure in the prevention of hypertension and MetS in general.
Does the Act Predict “Inside the Box” Thinking or Creativity?: Creative Characters in the Personality Imagination Exercise
Authors: Dollinger Stephen J. , Skaggs Alberta
Published: February 2012

College Admissions Tests are designed to predict academic achievement in college but their use is often criticized as being biased toward selecting uncreative students who think “inside the box” and whose learning is superficial. The empirical literature hints that standardized tests do predict creative outcomes, although not as well as they predict achievement. However, few studies have examined actual creative products devised by college students. With a sample of 116 college students, the present study tested whether admission test scores on the American College Testing program exam (ACT) were predictive of a creative writing task involving the imagination of personalities. For comparison with the ACT, we used the Big Five Inventory as a personality predictor of creativity with a particular focus on Openness to Experience. The activity took place several years after students took the ACT. Results showed that the ACT and Openness predicted the Personality Imagination Exercise but both were mediated by verbal fluency.
Ontology Theory of Consciousness
Authors: Brooks Eugene M.
Published: February 2012

The transgenic extension of a mouse's color vision and research in which the insertion of a gene enables blind mice to see provide a much firmer basis for a materialist theory of consciousness than has hitherto been available. Such seminal research offers empirical evidence that qualities are physical. In the Ontology Theory, consciousness is described as resulting from a process beginning with energies conveyed from noumena in the environment. The energies stimulate sense receptors which in a recursive exchange with memory result in qualities. The qualities consist of proteins or other neuronal molecules which, to the mind of the conscious individual, comprise semi-independent memory items (SIMIs), or phenomenal objects which are projected to the environment and are perceived as environmental objects. Thus, in the consciousness of the individual, environmental objects consist of the ontology of particular molecules.
Demographic and Individual Correlates of Self-Rated Competency
Authors: Furnham Adrian , Miller Tony , Batey Mark , Johnson Sheena
Published: February 2012

This study was designed to explore sex, age, and personality differences in the way working people rated their own work competencies. A total of 723 working adults (mainly from Europe and the Middle East) completed a questionnaire which measured respondents self-assessed work competencies, self-rated intelligence, creativity, humor and ability to learn, core self-evaluations, and Big Five personality traits. Males rated themselves significantly higher than females on four competencies ( Leading and Deciding; Analyzing and Interpreting, Creating and Conceptualizing; and Enterprising and Performing). Factor analysis revealed one overall factor. Regressing the total competency rating onto demography (age and sex), core self-evaluations, and the Big Five showed a clear interpretable pattern. Older, stable, open, conscientious, extraverts tended to rate themselves highest on overall competency. Extraverted males rated their creativity and sense of humor highest. Core self-evaluations added little incremental validity over the Big Five. Personal ratings of competence are a function of sex and personality which may systematically relate to actual competency behaviors.

That is individual differences predict both self-ratings and actual behavior which are related. Using personal ratings of work behavior in appraisal procedures may be contaminated by humility and hubris effects associated with sex and personality. The first to explore self-ratings of the “Great Eight” competencies and to examine how individual differences influence self-perceptions of leadership competencies.
Salicylate Downregulates 11β-HSD1 Expression in Adipose Tissue in Obese Mice and in Humans, Mediating Insulin Sensitization
Authors: Nixon Mark , Wake Deborah J. , Livingstone Dawn E. , Stimson Roland H. , Esteves Cristina L. , Seckl Jonathan R. , Chapman Karen E. , Andrew Ruth , Walker Brian R.
Published: February 2012

Recent trials show salicylates improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, but the mechanism is poorly understood. Expression of the glucocorticoid-generating enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) in adipose tissue is increased in vitro by proinflammatory cytokines and upregulated in obesity. 11β-HSD1 inhibition enhances insulin sensitivity. We hypothesized that salicylates downregulate 11β-HSD1 expression, contributing to their metabolic efficacy. We treated diet-induced obese (DIO) 11β-HSD1–deficient mice and C57Bl/6 mice with sodium salicylate for 4 weeks. Glucose tolerance was assessed in vivo. Tissue transcript levels were assessed by quantitative PCR and enzyme activity by incubation with 3H-steroid. Two weeks’ administration of salsalate was also investigated in a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover study in 16 men, with measurement of liver 11β-HSD1 activity in vivo and adipose tissue 11β-HSD1 transcript levels ex vivo. In C57Bl/6 DIO mice, salicylate improved glucose tolerance and downregulated 11β-HSD1 mRNA and activity selectively in visceral adipose. DIO 11β-HSD1–deficient mice were resistant to these metabolic effects of salicylate. In men, salsalate reduced 11β-HSD1 expression in subcutaneous adipose, and in vitro salicylate treatment reduced adipocyte 11β-HSD1 expression and induced adiponectin expression only in the presence of 11β-HSD1 substrate. Reduced intra-adipose glucocorticoid regeneration by 11β-HSD1 is a novel mechanism that contributes to the metabolic efficacy of salicylates.
Heart Rate Variability and Sensorimotor Polyneuropathy in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Orlov Steven , Bril Vera , Orszag Andrej , Perkins Bruce A.
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE

Reduced heart rate variability (HRV) is classically viewed as an early phenomenon in diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy (DSP). We aimed to determine the characteristics of HRV across the spectrum of clinical DSP in type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Eighty-nine diabetic subjects and 60 healthy volunteers underwent assessment of RR interval variation (RRvar) during deep breathing and clinical and electrophysiological examination. We examined the distribution of age-standardized RRvar across the spectrum of clinical DSP, identified variables associated with RRvar in multivariate regression, and compared RRvar with validated measures of neuropathy.

RESULTS

Age-standardized RRvar had a significant, step-wise, inverse relationship with ordinal categories of increasing DSP severity (β = −5.4, P < 0.0001) among subjects with diabetes. Case subjects with DSP had substantially lower age-standardized RRvar compared with diabetic control subjects without DSP (β = −5.2, P < 0.01), although there was substantial overlap of RRvar between diabetic case subjects and control subjects and the healthy volunteer cohort. In multivariate analysis, advanced age was independently associated with lower RRvar in both healthy volunteers and diabetic subjects, whereas higher glycated hemoglobin A1c and systolic blood pressure were independently associated with lower RRvar in diabetic subjects. RRvar had a significant association with validated measures of large and small fiber neuropathy.

CONCLUSIONS

HRV may be a biomarker for clinical DSP and is associated cross-sectionally with both early and late measures of neuropathy. The low HRV observed in some control subjects without DSP and in most case subjects with severe DSP may signify that HRV has different prognostic implications in these groups, requiring further longitudinal study.
Chelystachya, a new genus of the subtribe Polystachyinae (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Mytnik-Ejsmont Joanna , Szlachetko Dariusz , Górniak Marcin
Published: February 2012

Chelystachya, a new genus of the subtribe Polystachyinae (Orchidaceae)

A new genus of Orchidaceae (Polystachyinae), Chelystachya Mytnik & Szlach. is described and illustrated basing on results of molecular and morphological studies. It is related to Polystachya Hook. but is distinct in having large, single-noded, spherical, succulent pseudobulbs flattened on the substratum, pendent and densely pubescent inflorescence, lowermost lip, and lip veins directed to the lip base. Results of phylogenetic analyses based on plastid markers validate the reason for a new genus. Keys for determination of all genera of the subtribe Polystachyinae and both species of Chelystachya are included. Two new combinations are made. A comprehensive description and full synonymy, as well as detailed ecological, phenological and distribution data and a list of 125 examined specimens are provided for each taxon treated. Because Polystachya affinis Lindl. is considered a holotype of Polystachya Hook. sect. Affines Kraenzl., this name is automatically a synonym of the newly introduced generic name Chelystachya. Other species of the former section Affines are classified within the section Humiles.
Study of the genetic diversity of Korean, Chinese and Japanese landraces of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) using microsatellites
Authors: Park Sang , Lee Dong , Baek Hyung-Jin , Lee Jeongran , Farooq Muhammad
Published: February 2012

Study of the genetic diversity of Korean, Chinese and Japanese landraces of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) using microsatellites

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one of important winter cereals in the world and has been the subject of numerous genetic investigations. Studies of its genetic diversity based on germplasm have a significant impact on crop breeding and conservation of genetic resources. This study was conducted to reveal the genetic diversity in barley landraces from Korean, Chinese and Japanese populations and evaluate the discrimination ability of SSR markers, distributed uniformly throughout the barley genome. Seven SSR primers were used to screen a set of 737 diverse barley landraces from Korea, China and Japan. The observed number of alleles per locus (Na), the effective number of alleles (Ne), and the mean gene diversity (He) were 11.14, 3.6245 and 0.7048, respectively. The number of alleles per locus was highest in Chinese landraces (8.9 alleles), followed by Korean (8.6) and Japanese (6.4). In this regard, HVKASI primer may be useful to distinguish Japanese landraces from others, as this unique allele was only detected at 175 bp in Japanese landraces. The average value of genetic distance was D=0.935. The largest genetic distance (D=1.209) among the three regional (representing each country in general) populations was found between Korean and Japanese populations. Based on the UPGMA dendrogram, four major groups can be distinguished at the similarity value of 0.43. The scatter plot showed overlapping in the central part amongst 3 groups of barley landraces. SSR markers are a powerful tool to examine functional diversity. Rich barley gene pool can be very useful for meeting current and future challenges in barley raising.
Further Development of Information Technology Transfer Concept for Adaptation and Exploitation of European Research Results in the Baltic Sea Region Countries
Authors: Mitasiunas Antanas , Rikure Tatiana , Novickis Leonids , Jurenoks Aleksejs
Published: February 2012

Further Development of Information Technology Transfer Concept for Adaptation and Exploitation of European Research Results in the Baltic Sea Region Countries

This paper describes further development of information technology transfer concept for adaptation and exploitation of European research results in the Baltic Sea Region (BSR) countries. Riga Technical University (RTU) and Vilnius University (VU) as the partners of BSR Interreg Programme project BONITA (Baltic Organisation and Network of Innovation Transfer Associations) participate in the research which aims to develop a generic innovation & technology transfer concept (ITTC) to improve the collaboration between academia and industry. Particular attention in the paper is paid to the successfully proven concept of small and specialized exhibitions (the so-called "showrooms") run by technology suppliers and technology transfer facilitators. The creation of the distributed multi-organisational showroom-network environment in the framework of BONITA project for the purpose of technology & innovation transfer improvement is described.
Influence of Membership Functions on Classification of Multi-Dimensional Data
Authors: Gasparovica Madara , Tuleiko Irena , Aleksejeva Ludmila
Published: February 2012

Influence of Membership Functions on Classification of Multi-Dimensional Data

The aim of this study is to explore whether the number of intervals for each attribute influences the classification result and whether a larger number of intervals provide better classification accuracy using the Fuzzy PRISM algorithm. The feature selection has been carried out using Fast correlation-based filter solution, and then the decreased data sets have been applied in experiments with preferences used in the previous experiment series. The article also provides conclusions about the obtained classification results and analyzes criteria of certain experiments and their impact on the final result. Also a series of experiments was carried out to assess how and whether the classification result is influenced by categorization of continuous data, which is one of the membership function construction steps; Fuzzy unordered rule induction algorithm was used. The experiments have been carried out using four real data sets - Golub leukemia, Singh prostate, as well as Gastric cancer and leukemia donor data sets of the Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Center.
An Integrated Approach to Product Delivery Planning and Scheduling
Authors: Merkuryeva Galina , Bolshakov Vitaly , Kornevs Maksims
Published: February 2012

An Integrated Approach to Product Delivery Planning and Scheduling

Product delivery planning and scheduling is a task of high priority in transport logistics. In distribution centres this task is related to deliveries of various types of goods in predefined time windows. In real-life applications the problem has different stochastic performance criteria and conditions. Optimisation of schedules itself is time consuming and requires an expert knowledge. In this paper an integrated approach to product delivery planning and scheduling is proposed. It is based on a cluster analysis of demand data of stores to identify typical dynamic demand patterns and product delivery tactical plans, and simulation optimisation to find optimal parameters of transportation or vehicle schedules. Here, a cluster analysis of the demand data by using the K-means clustering algorithm and silhouette plots mean values is performed, and an NBTree-based classification model is built. In order to find an optimal grouping of stores into regions based on their geographical locations and the total demand uniformly distributed over regions, a multiobjective optimisation problem is formulated and solved with the NSGA II algorithm.
Model-Based Supply Chain Management
Authors: Soshko Oksana
Published: February 2012

Model-Based Supply Chain Management

The paper is focused on application of modelling and simulation approaches in supply chain management. First, essentials of multi echelon supply chain management are discussed including the functionality of supply chain information systems. Then, a variety of modelling and simulation approaches are analyzed in the context of supply chain management, for example, simulation, stochastic programming, business process modelling and reference model. Finally, some illustrative examples are provided on application of simulation and modelling approaches to supply chain management.
Extraction of the deterministic ingredient of a dynamic geodetic control network
Authors: Shahar L. , Even-Tzur G.
Published: February 2012

Extraction of the deterministic ingredient of a dynamic geodetic control network

A minimum constraints solution, which resolves the datum defect of a control network, is an arbitrary solution that may result in a systematic error in the estimation of the deformation parameters. This error is not derived from measurements and is usually inconsistent with the geophysical reality. A free network is affected only by errors of measurement and, therefore, a free network is an accepted way of coping with this problem. Study of deformations, which is based on the use of geodetic measurements, is usually performed today by defining a kinematic model. Such a model, when used to describe a complex geophysical environment, can lead to the partial estimation of the deterministic dynamics, which characterize the entire network. These dynamics are themselves expressed in measurements, as the adjustment systems' residuals. The current paper presents an extension of the definition of the parameters that are revalued. This extension enables the cleaning of measurements by means of the extraction of datum elements that have been defined by geodetic measurement. This cleaning minimizes the effects of these elements on the revaluated deformation. The proposed algorithm may be applied to achieve the simultaneous estimation of the physical parameters that define the geophysical activity in the network.
Fruit and seed traits of Berberis croatica Horvat and Berberis vulgaris L.
Authors: Kremer Dario , Grubešić Renata , Popović Zvjezdana , Karlović Ksenija
Published: February 2012

Fruit and seed traits ofBerberis croaticaHorvat andBerberis vulgarisL.

The three year variability of fruits and seeds was investigated inBerberis croatica(Vošac, Mt Biokovo, Rakov Potok near Zagreb) and inB. vulgaris(Fran Kušan Pharmaceutical Botanical Garden in Zagreb).Berberis croaticahad the following dimensions of fruits (seeds): length 7.28-7.88 (4.57-5.03) mm; width 3.85-3.99 (width 1: 2.06-2.20; width 2: 1.44-1.63) mm; weight 0.065-0.078 (0.0116-0.0134) g. Dimensions ofB. vulgarisfruits (seeds) were: length 10.20-11.29 (5.71-6.24) mm; width 5.29-5.83 (width 1: 2.40-2.71; width 2: 1.60-1.98) mm; weight 0.1602-0.2199 (0.0146-0.0235) g. The fruit shape of both species was similar and the length/width ratio was 1.91-2.04 inB. croaticaand 1.77-2.07 inB. vulgaris.The number of seeds per fruit was 1.23-1.58 inB. croaticaand 1.36-1.54 inB. vulgaris. Generally, fruits and seeds ofB. vulgariswere significantly longer, wider and heavier than fruits and seeds ofB. croatica. ANOVA showed significant statistical differences between populations for all analyzed fruit and seed traits while the species significantly differed in all traits, except in the fruit shape and number of seeds in fruit.
Natural occurrence of Cucumber mosaic virus infecting water mint (Mentha aquatica) in Antalya and Konya, Turkey
Authors: Sevik Mehmet
Published: February 2012

Natural occurrence ofCucumber mosaic virusinfecting water mint (Mentha aquatica) in Antalya and Konya, Turkey

Avirus causing a disease in mint (the aromatic and culinary plant) has recently become a problem in the Taurus Mountains, a mountain range in the Mediterranean region of Turkey. To detect the virus and investigate its distribution in the region, mint leaf samples were collected from the vicinity of spring areas in the plateaus of Antalya and Konya in 2009. It was found that Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) was detected in 27.08% of symptomatic samples tested by DAS-ELISA. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of CMV on mint plants in this region of Turkey.
Incidence of post-harvest disease and airborne fungal spores in a vegetable market
Authors: Kakde Umesh , Kakde Hemalata
Published: February 2012

Incidence of post-harvest disease and airborne fungal spores in a vegetable market

The sampling of bioaerosols has been carried out using a Rotorod sampler as well as by exposing culture plates. The screening of some common vegetables was also done for the isolation of fungi as market pathogens to study post-harvest diseases. Altogether, fifty nine fungal spore types and 78 species of 33 genera belonging to different groups were recorded respectively on the rotorod strips and on exposed Petri dishes. Many saprophytic and pathogenic fungi were found to be associated with sampled vegetables from the market. In all forty-six fungal species belonging to 26 genera were recovered from five varieties of vegetables collected from the samemarket. The most dominant forms of fungi were ofAspergillusfollowed byCladosporium, Penicillium, Alternaria, Fusarium, Curvularia, Trichoderma, andRhizopus. Aspergillus niger, A.flavus, A. fumigatus, Penicillium spp.andCladosporium herbarum, found to be dominant during the period of investigation. Important mycotoxin-producing fungi such asA. flavus, A. fumigatusandFusarium moniliformewere isolated from the vegetables collected from the market.
Epiphytic metazoans on emergent macrophytes in oxbow lakes of the Krapina River, Croatia: differences related to plant species and limnological conditions
Authors: Špoljar Maria , Fressl Jelena , Dražina Tvrtko , Meseljević Matija , Grčić Zlatko
Published: February 2012

Epiphytic metazoans on emergent macrophytes in oxbow lakes of the Krapina River, Croatia: differences related to plant species and limnological conditions

This study investigated the structure of the epiphytic metazoans on emerged macrophytes in the littoral zone of two oxbow lakes with different trophic levels. Differences in the diversity and density of the epiphytic metazoans were analyzed in relation to plant architecture (simple or complex stems), food resources (algae and detritus) and water characteristics (transparency and derived trophic state index). A significant negative correlation was found between detritus on plants as food resource, and diversity and density of epiphytic metazoans, indicating grazing of microphagous species. Rotifers dominated in diversity and density in the epiphyton on all habitats. Total density of metazoans, rotifers and copepods in epiphyton were significantly higher onMenthain mesotrophic lake than onIrisin a eutrophic lake. We presume that macrophyte belt width and trophic state governed biotic interactions and consequently epiphytic assemblages more strongly than macrophyte architecture. However, aMenthahabitat showed a slightly higher density and diversity of epiphytic metazoans in relation toIrisat the same site, but these differences were not significant.
Brownian Oscillators Driven by Correlated Noise in a Moving Trap
Authors: Glod Lukáš , Vasziová Gabriela , Tóthová Jana , Lisý Vladimír
Published: February 2012

Brownian Oscillators Driven by Correlated Noise in a Moving Trap

Brownian oscillator, ie a micron-sized or smaller particle trapped in a thermally fluctuating environment is studied. The confining harmonic potential can move with a constant velocity. As distinct from the standard Langevin theory, the chaotic force driving the particle is correlated in time. The dynamics of the particle is described by the generalized Langevin equation with the inertial term, a coloured noise force, and a memory integral. We consider two kinds of the memory in the system. The first one corresponds to the exponentially correlated noise and in the second case the memory naturally arises within the Navier-Stokes hydrodynamics. Exact analytical solutions are obtained in both the cases using a simple and effective method not applied so far in this kind of problems.
The Convex-Concave Rules of Arthrokinematics: Flawed or Perhaps Just Misinterpreted?
Authors: Neumann Donald A.
Published: February 2012

The convex-concave rules purportedly help describe the roll-and-slide relationships that naturally occur between moving articular surfaces. There are 2 components of this rule, depending on whether the convex or concave articular member of the joint is considered the moving segment. As a teacher of kinesiology and a physical therapist, I have always respected these rules, primarily because of their ability to assist with the mental imaging of joint motion. Recently, I have been perplexed by questions from experienced physical therapists as to why the convex-concave rules are still being taught in college or continuing education venues, when research has shown that they are flawed. Perhaps I am so hopelessly infatuated with, and blinded by, the educational charm and utility of the convex-concave rules that I fail to realize they are flawed. Are they? I don't think so, which is the topic of this editorial.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(2):53–55. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.0103
A Study of Fluorinated β-Nitrostyrenes as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Lo King , Cornell Hugh , Nicoletti Gina , Jackson Neale , Hügel Helmut
Published: February 2012

The effect of variously fluorine-substituted β-methyl-β-nitrostyrenes on their antimicrobial activity was investigated. Their efficacy was determined by minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) in cultures of Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria and a fungus. Highest activity against the Gram negative bacterium, E.coli, was achieved with 4-fluorine-aryl substituted β-methyl-β-nitrostyrenes, while most compounds gave excellent results against gram positive bacteria. Importantly, the addition of the β-methyl group profoundly enhanced the antibacterial activity of the compounds tested. The comparative KD values for the most potent compounds against E.coli were much lower than those required for the gram positive and fungus counterparts. This investigation illustrated that fluorine substituted nitropropenylarenes have enhanced antimicrobial activity suitable for antibiotic applications.
Interaction of PTPIP51 with Tubulin, CGI-99 and Nuf2 During Cell Cycle Progression
Authors: Brobeil Alexander , Graf Michaela , Eiber Moritz , Wimmer Monika
Published: February 2012

Protein tyrosine phosphatase interacting protein 51 (PTPIP51), also known as regulator of microtubule dynamics protein 3, was identified as an in vitro and in vivo interaction partner of CGI-99 and Nuf-2. PTPIP51 mRNA is expressed in all stages of the cell cycle; it is highly expressed six hours post-nocodazole treatment and minimally expressed one hour post-nocodazole treatment. Recent investigations located PTPIP51 protein at the equatorial plate. This study reports the localization of the PTPIP51/CGI-99 and the PTPIP51/Nuf-2 complex at the equatorial region during mitosis. Moreover, Duolink proximity ligation assays revealed an association of PTPIP51 with the microtubular cytoskeleton and the spindle apparatus. High amounts of phosphorylated PTPIP51 associated with the spindle poles was seen by confocal microscopy. In parallel a strong interaction of PTPIP51 with the epidermal growth factor receptor phosphorylating PTPIP51 at the tyrosine 176 residue was seen. In the M/G1 transition a high level of interaction between PTPIP51 and PTP1B was registered, thus restoring the interaction of PTPIP51 and Raf-1, depleted in mitotic cells. Summarizing these new facts, we conclude that PTPIP51 is necessary for normal mitotic processes, impacting on chromosomal division and control of the MAPK pathway activity.
Bumps on the Road to Here (from Eternity)
Authors: Winsberg Eric
Published: February 2012

In his recent book, From Eternity to Here, and in other more technical papers, Sean Carroll (partly in collaboration with Jennifer Chen) has put forward an intriguing new way to think about the origin of the Universe. His approach, in a nutshell, is to raise certain worries about a standard Boltzmannian picture of statistical mechanics, and to present certain commitments that he thinks we ought to hold—commitments that the standard picture doesn’t share. He then proposes a cosmological model—one that purports to give us insight into what sort of process brought about the “initial state” of the universe—that can uniquely accommodate those commitments. The conclusion of Carroll’s argument is that statistical mechanical reasoning provides grounds for provisionally accepting that cosmological model. My goal in this paper is to reconstruct and critically assess this proposal. I argue that “statistical cosmology” requires a careful balance of philosophical intuitions and commitments against technical, scientific considerations; how much stock we ought to place in these intuitions and commitments should depend on where they lead us—those that lead us astray scientifically might well be in need of philosophical re‑examination.
Multi-Level Governance of Low-Carbon Energy Systems in Thailand
Authors: Kunchornrat Janthana , Phdungsilp Aumnad
Published: February 2012

Low-carbon future has in recent years recurred as a strategic element in energy and climate planning. The transition towards a low-carbon society requires fundamental changes in both the energy systems and in the ways that society adapts to large transformations. These changes cannot happen by themselves, but require purposeful mechanisms and measures steered by government and other actors in society. Actions are required at all levels of government from international to local. Thailand needs to transform its energy system to effectively address concerns about a range of environmental problems. This paper provides an analysis of Thailand’s carbon governance structure as applied to the energy systems. The study applies a multi-level governance framework to understand the policy environment. It presents the elements of existing energy and climate governance and an examination of modeling exercises of the existing literature. It is concluded that multi-level governance enables integration of divergent perspectives and helps steer the course of responsible development. The paper also provides some recommendations on issues related to the governance challenges.
Modeling Urban Land Cover Growth Dynamics Using Multi‑Temporal Satellite Images: A Case Study of Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Bayes , Ahmed Raquib
Published: February 2012

The primary objective of this research is to predict and analyze the future urban growth of Dhaka City using the Landsat satellite images of 1989, 1999 and 2009. Dhaka City Corporation (DCC) and its surrounding impact areas have been selected as the study area. At the beginning, a fisher supervised classification method has been applied to prepare the base maps with five land cover classes. In the next stage, three different models have been implemented to simulate the land cover map of Dhaka city of 2009. These have been named as “Stochastic Markov (St_Markov)” Model, “Cellular Automata Markov (CA_Markov)” Model and “Multi Layer Perceptron Markov (MLP_Markov)” Model. Then the best-fitted model has been selected by implementing a method to compare land cover categories in three maps: a reference map of time 1, a reference map of time 2 and a simulation map of time 2. This is how the “Multi Layer Perceptron Markov (MLP_Markov)” Model has been qualified as the most appropriate model for this research. Later, using the MLP_Markov model, the land cover map of 2019 has been predicted. The MLP_Markov model extrapolates that built-up area increases from 46% to 58% of the total study area during 2009–2019.
Primary Study for the Therapeutic Dose and Time Window of Picroside II in Treating Cerebral Ischemic Injury in Rats
Authors: Pei Haitao , Su Xi , Zhao Li , Li Hongyun , Guo Yunliang , Zhang Menizeng , Xin Hui
Published: February 2012

The aim of this study was to explore the optimal therapeutic dose and time window of picroside II for treating cerebral ischemic injury in rats according to the orthogonal test. The middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) models were established by intraluminally inserting a thread into middle cerebral artery (MCA) from left external carotid artery (ECA). The successful rat models were randomly divided into 16 groups according to the orthogonal layout of [L16(45)] and treated by injecting picroside II intraperitoneally with different doses at various times. The neurological behavioral function was evaluated by Bederson’s test and the cerebral infarction volume was measured by tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. The expressions of neuron specific enolase (NSE) and neuroglial mark-protein S-100 were determined by immunohistochemisty assay. The results indicated that the optimal compositions of the therapeutic dose and time window of picroside II in treating cerebral ischemic injury were ischemia 1.5 h with 20 mg/kg body weight according to Bederson’s test, 1.0 h with 20 mg/kg body weight according to cerebral infarction volume, 1.5 h with 20 mg/kg body weight according to the expressions of NSE and S-100 respectively. Based on the principle of the minimization of medication dose and maximization of therapeutic time window, the optimal composition of the therapeutic dose and time window of picroside II in treating cerebral ischemic injury should be achieved by injecting picroside II intraperitoneally with 20 mg/kg body weight at ischemia 1.5 h.
Development of Soil Compaction Analysis Software (SCAN) Integrating a Low Cost GPS Receiver and Compactometer
Authors: Hwang Jinsang , Yun Hongsik , Kim Juhyong , Suh Yongcheol , Hong Sungnam , Lee Dongha
Published: February 2012

A software for soil compaction analysis (SCAN) has been developed for evaluating the compaction states using the data from the GPS as well as a compactometer attached on the roller. The SCAN is distinguished from other previous software for intelligent compaction (IC) in that it can use the results from various types of GPS positioning methods, and it also has an optimal structure for remotely managing the large amounts of data gathered from numerous rollers. For this, several methods were developed: (1) improving the accuracy of low cost GPS receiver’s positioning results; (2) modeling the trajectory of a moving roller using a GPS receiver’s results and linking it with the data from the compactometer; and (3) extracting the information regarding the compaction states of the ground from the modeled trajectory, using spatial analysis methods. The SCAN was verified throughout various field compaction tests, and it has been confirmed that it can be a very effective tool in evaluating field compaction states.
Upconversion Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Mechanism, and Applications in Sensing
Authors: Chen Jiao , Zhao Julia Xiaojun
Published: February 2012

Upconversion is an optical process that involves the conversion of lower-energy photons into higher-energy photons. It has been extensively studied since mid-1960s and widely applied in optical devices. Over the past decade, high-quality rare earth-doped upconversion nanoparticles have been successfully synthesized with the rapid development of nanotechnology and are becoming more prominent in biological sciences. The synthesis methods are usually phase-based processes, such as thermal decomposition, hydrothermal reaction, and ionic liquids-based synthesis. The main difference between upconversion nanoparticles and other nanomaterials is that they can emit visible light under near infrared irradiation. The near infrared irradiation leads to low autofluorescence, less scattering and absorption, and deep penetration in biological samples. In this review, the synthesis of upconversion nanoparticles and the mechanisms of upconversion process will be discussed, followed by their applications in different areas, especially in the biological field for biosensing.
Interferometric Fiber Optic Sensors
Authors: Lee Byeong Ha , Kim Young Ho , Park Kwan Seob , Eom Joo Beom , Kim Myoung Jin , Rho Byung Sup , Choi Hae Young
Published: February 2012

Fiber optic interferometers to sense various physical parameters including temperature, strain, pressure, and refractive index have been widely investigated. They can be categorized into four types: Fabry-Perot, Mach-Zehnder, Michelson, and Sagnac. In this paper, each type of interferometric sensor is reviewed in terms of operating principles, fabrication methods, and application fields. Some specific examples of recently reported interferometeric sensor technologies are presented in detail to show their large potential in practical applications. Some of the simple to fabricate but exceedingly effective Fabry-Perot interferometers, implemented in both extrinsic and intrinsic structures, are discussed. Also, a wide variety of Mach-Zehnder and Michelson interferometric sensors based on photonic crystal fibers are introduced along with their remarkable sensing performances. Finally, the simultaneous multi-parameter sensing capability of a pair of long period fiber grating (LPG) is presented in two types of structures; one is the Mach-Zehnder interferometer formed in a double cladding fiber and the other is the highly sensitive Sagnac interferometer cascaded with an LPG pair.
Treatment Response and Evolution of HBV Resistance during Lamivudine plus Adefovir or Entecavir Therapy in Patients with Adefovir-Resistant Mutants
Authors: Chen Chien-Hung , Wang Jing-Houng , Lu Sheng-Nan , Hu Tsung-Hui , Hung Chao-Hung , Chang Min-Hui , Changchien Chi-Sin , Lee Chuan-Mo
Published: February 2012

Background

Here, we investigated the treatment response and evolution of HBV resistance during lamivudine (LAM) plus adefovir (ADV) and entecavir (ETV) monotherapy in patients with ADV-resistant mutants.

Methods

Of the 53 patients with ADV-resistant mutants, 25 received combined LAM plus ADV therapy (LAM+ADV group) and 28 received ETV monotherapy (ETV group) for at least 12 months (median 24 months and range 12–67 months).

Results

During 24 months therapy, no significant difference was noted in HBV DNA reduction from baseline, HBV DNA<200 copies/ml, hepatitis B e antigen loss and ALT normalization between the two groups. In the LAM+ADV group, patients with single rtN236T resistant mutation had higher rates of undetectable HBV DNA than those with the double mutant rtA181T/V+rtN236T at months 3–18 of therapy. No virological breakthrough occurred except for one patient with rtN236T resistant mutation who experienced virological and biochemical breakthrough after the emergence of an additional rtA181T mutant under LAM+ADV therapy. Of the 28 patients receiving ETV monotherapy, ETV-resistant mutants developed in 8. The cumulative rates of ETV-resistant mutations and virological breakthrough at months 12, 24 and 36 were 3.6%, 25.7% and 46.8%, respectively. ADV-resistant mutations were rapidly replaced by LAM-resistant mutations (median 12 months) followed by ETV-resistant mutations.

Conclusions

There was no significant difference in virological response between the LAM+ADV and ETV groups in patients with ADV-resistant mutants. LAM+ADV were less effective in patients with the double mutant rtA181T/V+rtN236T than the single rtN236T mutation. The incidence of ETV-resistant mutation was high in patients with LAM/ADV-resistant mutants treated with ETV monotherapy.
« Elle est encore aux Urgences »
Authors: Pommereau Xavier
Published: February 2012

Résumé Chaque année, en France, elles sont des milliers d’adolescentes et de jeunes adultes à être admises à l’hôpital à la suite d’une tentative de suicide. L’auteur revisite ce qui se joue ainsi en urgence et aux Urgences, entre rupture et revendication identitaire, afin de mieux prendre en charge ces jeunes filles en souffrance.