bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Equivalent susceptibility of Anopheles gambiae M and S molecular forms and Anopheles arabiensis to Plasmodium falciparum infection in Burkina Faso
Authors: Gnémé Awa , Guelbéogo Wamdaogo M , Riehle Michelle M , Sanou Antoine , Traoré Alphonse , Zongo Soumanaba , Eiglmeier Karin , Kabré Gustave B , Sagnon N’Falé , Vernick Kenneth D
Published: June 2013

Background

TheAnopheles gambiaesensu lato (s.l.) species complex in Burkina Faso consists ofAnopheles arabiensis,and molecular forms M and S ofAnopheles gambiaesensu stricto (s.s.). Previous studies comparing the M and S forms for level of infection withPlasmodium falciparumhave yielded conflicting results.

Methods

Mosquito larvae were sampled from natural pools, reared to adulthood under controlled conditions, and challenged with naturalP. falciparumby experimental feeding with blood from gametocyte carriers. Oocyst infection prevalence and intensity was determined one week after infection. DNA from carcasses was genotyped to identify species and molecular form.

Results

In total, 7,400 adult mosquitoes grown from wild-caught larvae were challenged with gametocytes in 29 experimental infections spanning four transmission seasons. The overall infection prevalence averaged 40.7% forA. gambiaeM form, 41.4% forA. gambiaeS form, and 40.1% forA. arabiensis. There was no significant difference in infection prevalence or intensity between the three population groups. Notably, infection experiments in which the population groups were challenged in parallel on the same infective blood displayed less infection difference between population groups, while infections with less balanced composition of population groups had lower statistical power and displayed apparent differences that fluctuated more often from the null average.

Conclusion

The study clearly establishes that, at the study site in Burkina Faso, there is no difference in genetic susceptibility toP. falciparuminfection between three sympatric population groups of theA. gambiaes.l. complex. Feeding the mosquito groups on the same infective blood meal greatly increases statistical power. Conversely, comparison of the different mosquito groups between, rather than within, infections yields larger apparent difference between mosquito groups, resulting from lower statistical power and greater noise, and could lead to false-positive results. In making infection comparisons between population groups, it is more accurate to compare the different groups after feeding simultaneously upon the same infective blood.
Biochemical and biological characterization of exosomes containing prominin-1/CD133
Authors: Rappa Germana , Mercapide Javier , Anzanello Fabio , Pope Robert M , Lorico Aurelio
Published: June 2013

Exosomes can be viewed as complex “messages” packaged to survive trips to other cells in the local microenvironment and, through body fluids, to distant sites. A large body of evidence indicates a pro-metastatic role for certain types of cancer exosomes. We previously reported that prominin-1 had a pro-metastatic role in melanoma cells and that microvesicles released from metastatic melanoma cells expressed high levels of prominin-1. With the goal to explore the mechanisms that govern proteo-lipidic-microRNA sorting in cancer exosomes and their potential contribution(s) to the metastatic phenotype, we here employed prominin-1-based immunomagnetic separation in combination with filtration and ultracentrifugation to purify prominin-1-expressing exosomes (prom1-exo) from melanoma and colon carcinoma cells. Prom1-exo contained 154 proteins, including all of the 14 proteins most frequently expressed in exosomes, and multiple pro-metastatic proteins, including CD44, MAPK4K, GTP-binding proteins, ADAM10 and Annexin A2. Their lipid composition resembled that of raft microdomains, with a great enrichment in lyso-phosphatidylcholine, lyso-phosphatidyl-ethanolamine and sphingomyelin. The abundance of tetraspanins and of tetraspanin-associated proteins, together with the high levels of sphingomyelin, suggests that proteolipidic assemblies, probably tetraspanin webs, might be the essential structural determinant in the release process of prominin-1 of stem and cancer stem cells. Micro-RNA profiling revealed 49 species of micro-RNA present at higher concentrations in prom1-exo than in parental cells, including 20 with cancer-related function. Extensive accumulation of prom1-exo was observed 3 h after their addition to cultures of melanoma and bone marrow-derived stromal cells (MSC). Short-term co-culture of melanoma cells and MSC resulted in heterologous prominin-1 transfer. Exposure of MSC to prom1-exo increased their invasiveness. Our study supports the concept that specific populations of cancer exosomes contain multiple determinants of the metastatic potential of the cells from which they are derived.
Activation of the mitochondrial ATP-sensitive K+ channel reduces apoptosis of spleen mononuclear cells induced by hyperlipidemia
Authors: Alberici Luciane C , Paim Bruno A , Zecchin Karina G , Mirandola Sandra R , Pestana Cezar R , Castilho Roger F , Vercesi Anibal E , Oliveira Helena CF
Published: June 2013

Background

We have previously demonstrated that increased rates of superoxide generation by extra-mitochondrial enzymes induce the activation of the mitochondrial ATP-sensitive potassium channel (mitoKATP) in the livers of hypertriglyceridemic (HTG) mice. The resulting mild uncoupling mediated by mitoKATPprotects mitochondria against oxidative damage. In this study, we investigate whether immune cells from HTG mice also present increased mitoKATPactivity and evaluate the influence of this trait on cell redox state and viability.

Methods

Oxygen consumption (Clark-type electrode), reactive oxygen species production (dihydroethidium and H2-DCF-DA probes) and cell death (annexin V, cytocrome c release and Trypan blue exclusion) were determined in spleen mononuclear cells.

Results

HTG mice mononuclear cells displayed increased mitoKATPactivity, as evidenced by higher resting respiration rates that were sensitive to mitoKATPantagonists. Whole cell superoxide production and apoptosis rates were increased in HTG cells. Inhibition of mitoKATPfurther increased the production of reactive oxygen species and apoptosis in these cells. Incubation with HTG serum induced apoptosis more strongly in WT cells than in HTG mononuclear cells. Cytochrome c release into the cytosol and caspase 8 activity were both increased in HTG cells, indicating that cell death signaling starts upstream of the mitochondria but does involve this organelle. Accordingly, a reduced number of blood circulating lymphocytes was found in HTG mice.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that spleen mononuclear cells from hyperlipidemic mice have more active mitoKATPchannels, which downregulate mitochondrial superoxide generation. The increased apoptosis rate observed in these cells is exacerbated by closing the mitoKATPchannels. Thus, mitoKATPopening acts as a protective mechanism that reduces cell death induced by hyperlipidemia.
Acupuncture for lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow): study protocol for a randomized, practitioner-assessor blinded, controlled pilot clinical trial
Authors: Shin Kyung-Min , Kim Joo-Hee , Lee Seunghoon , Shin Mi-Suk , Kim Tae-Hun , Park Hyo-Ju , Lee Min-Hee , Hong Kwon-Eui , Lee Seungdeok , Choi Sun-Mi
Published: June 2013

Background

Lateral epicondylitis is the most frequent cause of pain around the elbow joint. It causes pain in the region of the elbow joint and results in dysfunction of the elbow and deterioration of the quality of life. The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of ipsilateral acupuncture, contralateral acupuncture and sham acupuncture on lateral epicondylitis.

Methods/design

Forty-five subjects with lateral epicondylitis will be randomized into three groups: the ipsilateral acupuncture group, contralateral acupuncture group and the sham acupuncture group. The inclusion criteria will be as follows: (1) age between 19 and 65 years with pain due to one-sided lateral epicondylitis that persisted for at least four weeks, (2) with tenderness on pressure limited to regions around the elbow joint, (3) complaining of pain during resistive extension of the middle finger or the wrist, (4) with average pain of NRS 4 or higher during the last one week at a screening visit and (5) voluntarily agree to this study and sign a written consent. Acupuncture treatment will be given 10 times in total for 4 weeks to all groups. Follow up observations will be conducted after the completion of the treatment, 8 weeks and 12 weeks after the random assignment. Ipsilateral acupuncture group and contralateral acupuncture group will receive acupuncture on LI4, TE5, LI10, LI11, LU5, LI12 and two Ashi points. The sham acupuncture group will receive treatment on acupuncture points not related to the lateral epicondylitis using a non-invasive method. The needles will be maintained for 20 minutes. The primary outcome will be differences in the visual analogue scale (VAS) for elbow pain between the groups. The secondary outcome will be differences in patient-rated tennis elbow evaluation (PRTEE), pain-free/maximum grip strength (Dynamometer), pressure pain threshold, clinically relevant improvement, patient global assessment, and the EQ-5D. The data will be analyzed with the paired t-test and ANCOVA (P <0.05).

Discussion

The results of this study will allow evaluation of contralateral acupuncture from two aspects. First, if the contralateral acupuncture shows the effects similar to ipsilateral acupuncture, this will establish clinical basis for contralateral acupuncture. Second, if the effects of contralateral acupuncture are not comparable to the effects of ipsilateral acupuncture, but are shown to be similar to the effects of the sham acupuncture, we can establish the basis for using the same acupoints of the unaffected side as a control in acupuncture clinical studies.

Trial registration

This trial has been registered with the ‘Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS)’, Republic of Korea:KCT0000628.
Bovine and porcine heparins: different drugs with similar effects on human haemodialysis
Authors: Tovar Ana MF , Teixeira Lisandra AC , Rembold Simone M , Leite Maurilo , Lugon Jocemir R , Mourão Paulo AS
Published: June 2013

Background

Heparins from porcine and bovine intestinal mucosa differ in their structure and also in their effects on coagulation, thrombosis and bleeding. However, they are used as undistinguishable drugs.

Methods

We compared bovine and porcine intestinal heparin administered to patients undergoing a particular protocol of haemodialysis. We compared plasma concentrations of these two drugs and also evaluated how they affect patients and the dialyzer used.

Results

Compared with porcine heparin, bovine heparin achieved only 76% of the maximum plasma concentration as IU mL-1. This observation is consistent with the activities observed in the respective pharmaceutical preparations. When the plasma concentrations were expressed on weight basis, bovine heparin achieved a maximum concentration 1.5 fold higher than porcine heparin. The reduced anticoagulant activity and higher concentration, on weight basis, achieved in the plasma of patients under dialysis using bovine instead of porcine heparin did not affect significantly the patients or the dialyzer used. The heparin dose is still in a range, which confers security and safety to the patients.

Discussion

Despite no apparent difference between bovine and porcine intestinal heparins in the haemodialysis practice, these two types of heparins should be used as distinct drugs due to their differences in structure and biological effects.

Conclusions

The reduced anticoagulant activity achieved in the plasma of patients under dialysis using bovine instead of porcine heparin did not affect significantly the patients or the dialyzer.
Computational analysis of protein-protein interfaces involving an alpha helix: insights for terphenyl–like molecules binding
Authors: Isvoran Adriana , Craciun Dana , Martiny Virginie , Sperandio Olivier , Miteva Maria A
Published: June 2013

Background

Protein-Protein Interactions (PPIs) are key for many cellular processes. The characterization of PPI interfaces and the prediction of putative ligand binding sites and hot spot residues are essential to design efficient small-molecule modulators of PPI. Terphenyl and its derivatives are small organic molecules known to mimic one face of protein-binding alpha-helical peptides. In this work we focus on several PPIs mediated by alpha-helical peptides.

Method

We performed computational sequence- and structure-based analyses in order to evaluate several key physicochemical and surface properties of proteins known to interact with alpha-helical peptides and/or terphenyl and its derivatives.

Results

Sequence-based analysis revealed low sequence identity between some of the analyzed proteins binding alpha-helical peptides. Structure-based analysis was performed to calculate the volume, the fractal dimension roughness and the hydrophobicity of the binding regions. Besides the overall hydrophobic character of the binding pockets, some specificities were detected. We showed that the hydrophobicity is not uniformly distributed in different alpha-helix binding pockets that can help to identify key hydrophobic hot spots.

Conclusions

The presence of hydrophobic cavities at the protein surface with a more complex shape than the entire protein surface seems to be an important property related to the ability of proteins to bind alpha-helical peptides and low molecular weight mimetics. Characterization of similarities and specificities of PPI binding sites can be helpful for further development of small molecules targeting alpha-helix binding proteins.
Reduction of body temperature governs neutrophil retention in hibernating and nonhibernating animals by margination
Authors: Bouma Hjalmar R , Dugbartey George J , Boerema Ate S , Talaei Fatemeh , Herwig Annika , Goris Maaike , van Buiten Azuwerus , Strijkstra Arjen M , Carey Hannah V , Henning Robert H , Kroese Frans G M
Published: June 2013

Hibernation consists of periods of low metabolism, called torpor, interspersed by euthermic arousal periods. During deep and daily (shallow) torpor, the number of circulating leukocytes decreases, although circulating cells, is restored to normal numbers upon arousal. Here, we show that neutropenia, during torpor, is solely a result of lowering of body temperature, as a reduction of circulating also occurred following forced hypothermia in summer euthermic hamsters and rats that do not hibernate. Splenectomy had no effect on reduction in circulating neutrophils during torpor. Margination of neutrophils to vessel walls appears to be the mechanism responsible for reduced numbers of neutrophils in hypothermic animals, as the effect is inhibited by pretreatment with dexamethasone. In conclusion, low body temperature in species that naturally use torpor or in nonhibernating species under forced hypothermia leads to a decrease of circulating neutrophils as a result of margination. These findings may be of clinical relevance, as they could explain, at in least part, the benefits and drawbacks of therapeutic hypothermia as used in trauma patients and during major surgery.
A Redox-Active, Amphoteric Pyrogallolaldehyde Derivative: Electrochemical Characterization and Schiff Base Formation for Constructing Multifunctional Salphen Complexes
Authors: Shingai Hajime , Houjou Hirohiko , Yoshikawa Isao , Araki Koji
Published: June 2013

We synthesized and determined the crystal structure of a novel pyrogallolaldehyde derivative with a 5-dimethylaminomethyl group. In solution, this compound underwent autoxidation to form unidentified blue species under ambient conditions. Electrochemical measurements revealed that addition of a base promoted the autoxidation, whereas addition of an acid effectively suppressed it. Using p-toluenesulfonic acid, we isolated a hydroxy-rich salphen-type Schiff base ligand as an ammonium salt of the acid. We obtained several transition-metal complexes of this ligand that retained its antioxidant stability. We discuss the spectroscopic and electrochemical properties of these complexes in comparison with analogous complexes without a 5-dimethylaminomethyl group.
Time-integrated One-pot Synthesis, X-ray Structure, and Redox Properties of Electrochromic 1,3-Diarylisobenzofurans
Authors: Hamura Toshiyuki , Nakayama Ryosuke , Hanada Keisuke , Sakano Yuto , Katoono Ryo , Fujiwara Kenshu , Suzuki Takanori
Published: June 2013

1,3-Bis[4-(dimethylamino)phenyl]isobenzofuran (1a) and a derivative were efficiently prepared through a sequence of reactions in a single batch reactor (time integration). The o-quinodimethane-type π-conjugation in 1a was confirmed by bond alternation determined by a low-temperature X-ray analysis. Brightly colored heterocycle 1a undergoes reversible two-stage one-electron oxidation, and electrolysis of 1a induces a vivid change in UV–vis–NIR absorptions exhibiting several isosbestic points (electrochromism).
NS-Raubgut-Recherche im Landesbibliothekszentrum Rheinland-Pfalz/Pfälzische Landesbibliothek Speyer
Authors: Bartels Nicole , Bartels Nicole
Published: June 2013

Das Landesbibliothekszentrum Rheinland-Pfalz untersucht an seinem Standort Pfälzische Landesbibliothek (PLB) Speyer seit Oktober 2012 seine Bestände auf NS-Raubgut. Das zunächst auf ein Jahr angelegte Provenienzforschungsprojekt wird von der Arbeitsstelle für Provenienzforschung in Berlin gefördert. In den zurückliegenden sechs Monaten wurden rund 28 000 Kaufzugänge und 17 000 Geschenkzugänge geprüft. Dabei wurden u. a. ca. 50 Bücher mit Provenienzen der 1940 in das Internierungslager Gurs in Südfrankreich deportierten Speyerer Juden gefunden. Die Bücher wurden der PLB 1941 von der Stadt Speyer übergeben.
Zwischen Novellierung und Neuregelung
Authors: Soilihi Mzé Hassan
Published: June 2013

Nach dem Scheitern des Entwurfs zu einem eigenständigen Bibliotheksgesetz in Sachsen im April 2012 kam die Debatte um eine bibliotheksrechtliche Rahmensetzung im Freistaat dennoch nicht zum Stillstand. Schon im Januar 2013 brachten sowohl die regierungstragenden Koalitionsfraktionen von CDU und FDP als auch die Oppositionsfraktionen aus SPD und Bündnis ’90/Die Grünen je einen bibliothekspolitischen Antrag ins parlamentarische Verfahren ein. Der Beitrag stellt die beiden Initiativen kurz und problemorientiert vor.
Regularized theta liftings and periods of modular functions
Authors: Bruinier Jan H. , Funke Jens , Imamoḡlu Özlem
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we use regularized theta liftings to construct weak Maass forms of weight 1/2 as lifts of weak
Maass forms of weight 0. As a special case we give a new proof of some of recent results of Duke, Toth and the third author
on cycle integrals of the modular j-invariant and extend these to
any congruence subgroup. Moreover, our methods allow us to settle the
open question of a geometric interpretation for periods of j along
infinite geodesics in the upper half plane. In particular, we give the
`central value' of the (non-existent) `L-function' for j. The key to
the proofs is the construction of a kind of simultaneous Green
function for both the CM points and the geodesic cycles, which is
of independent interest.
The nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ promotes oligodendrocyte differentiation through mechanisms involving mitochondria and oscillatory Ca2+ waves
Authors: Bernardo Antonietta , De Simone Roberta , De Nuccio Chiara , Visentin Sergio , Minghetti Luisa
Published: June 2013

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) is one of the most studied nuclear receptor since its identification as a target to treat metabolic and neurological diseases. In addition to exerting anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, PPAR-γ agonists, such as the insulin-sensitizing drug pioglitazone, promote the differentiation of oligodendrocytes (OLs), the myelin-forming cells of the central nervous system (CNS). In addition, PPAR-γ agonists increase OL mitochondrial respiratory chain activity and OL’s ability to respond to environmental signals with oscillatory Ca2+ waves. Both OL maturation and oscillatory Ca2+ waves are prevented by the mitochondrial inhibitor rotenone and restored by PPAR-γ agonists, suggesting that PPAR-γ promotes myelination through mechanisms involving mitochondria.
Die Trasjanka und die Regiolektalisierung des Russischen in Weißrußland
Authors: Stern Dieter
Published: June 2013

Though a wealth of literature on Russian-Belorusian bilingualism and more specifically on Trasjanka has been published within recent years, the status of Trasjanka is still some matter of debate. None of the labels which have been proposed so far, seem to hit the mark. In this article it will be argued that the search for a label which will make sense, has been hampered by the fact that the language situation in Belorussia is still being interpreted in terms of bilingualism. By comparing the Belorusian situation to what is simultaneously going on in most Western European countries, among them Germany, it is hoped to demonstrate that what is going on in Belarus is more akin to processes of destandardisation and concurrent dialect-leveling and -death in monolingual dialect-standard-continua. It will also be argued that this parallel ought to be taken at face value, which implies that Russian-Belorusian bilingualism is in fact dialectal in nature and that Trasjanka is ultimately just another of the many regiolects of increasingly decentralising modern Europe.
Muscle function and quality of life are not impaired in familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia: a cross-sectional study on physiological effects of inactivating variants in the calcium-sensing receptor gene (CASR)
Authors: Jakobsen Niels Frederik Breum , Rolighed Lars , Nissen Peter H , Mosekilde Leif , Rejnmark Lars
Published: June 2013

Background

Familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH) is often due to inactivating variants in the calcium-sensing receptor (CASR) gene causing chronically elevated plasma calcium levels with inappropriately normal or elevated parathyroid hormone levels. In patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, the state of hyperparathyroid hypercalcemia is associated with reduced muscle strength and impaired quality of life (QoL).

Objective

To study whether FHH affects muscle function, postural stability, and QoL.

Design

In a cross-sectional study, we investigated muscle strength (handgrip, elbow flexion/extension, and knee flexion/extension), balance function, physical activity, and QoL in 50 patients with FHH and in a similar number of age- and gender-matched population-based healthy controls. All but one of the FHH cases had genetically verified inactivating variants in theCASRgene.

Results

Studied subjects (n=100, 68% females) had a mean age of 56.0 years. Muscle strength as assessed by measuring maximum force and maximum force production did not differ between the groups. Neither did groups differ in terms of QoL, physical activity, or postural stability, as assessed during normal standing with eyes open, normal standing with eyes closed, semi-tandem standing, or tandem standing. Adjustment for vitamin D status (plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels) and BMI did not change results.

Conclusion

Despite a state of chronic hypercalcemia, muscle strength, balance function, and QoL are not impaired in patients with FHH. Our findings are reassuring for patients with FHH as they should not be considered as having a severe disease.
Combinations of Corn Gluten Meal, Clove Oil, and Sweep Cultivation are Ineffective for Weed Control in Organic Peanut Production
Authors: Johnson W. Carroll , Boudreau Mark A. , Davis Jerry W.
Published: June 2013

Weed control in organic peanut is difficult and lack of residual weed control complicates weed management efforts. Weed management systems using corn gluten meal in combination with clove oil and sweep cultivation were evaluated in a series of irrigated field trials. Corn gluten meal applied in a 30 cm band over the row at PRE, sequentially at PRE+2 wk after emergence, and PRE+2wk+4wk did not adequately control annual grasses and smallflower morningglory. Similarly, a banded application of clove oil applied POST did not adequately control weeds. The only treatment that improved overall weed control was sweep cultivation. Peanut yields were not measured in 2006 due to heavy baseline weed densities and overall poor weed control. Peanut yields were measured in 2007 and were not affected by any weed control treatment due to poor efficacy. While sweep cultivation improved weed control, weeds were controlled only in the row middles and surviving weeds in-row reduced peanut yield. Even when used in combination with sweep cultivation, corn gluten meal and clove oil were ineffective and offer little potential in a weed management system for organic peanut production.
What is the “real” impact of invasive plant species?
Authors: Barney Jacob N , Tekiela Daniel R , Dollete Eugene SJ , Tomasek Bradley J
Published: June 2013

Invasive plant species should be evaluated and prioritized for management according to their impacts, which include reduction in native diversity, changes to nutrient pools, and alteration of fire regimes. However, the impacts of most invasive species have not been quantified and, when measured, those impacts are based on a limited number of response metrics. As a result, invasion ecology has been overwhelmed by speculation and bias regarding the ecological consequences of invasive plants. We propose a quantitative mathematical framework that integrates any number of impact metrics as a function of groundcover and geographic extent. By making relative comparisons between invaded and uninvaded landscapes at the population scale, which results in a percent change for each metric, we overcome previous limitations that confounded the integration of metrics based on different units. Our model offers a quantitative approach to ecological impact that may allow identification of the transition from benign introduction to impactful invader, while also allowing empirical comparisons at the species and population levels that will be useful for management prioritization.
Efficacy of Fungal Laccase to Facilitate Biodethatching in Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass
Authors: Sidhu Sudeep S. , Huang Qingguo , Carrow Robert N. , Raymer Paul L.
Published: June 2013

Accumulation of excessive organic matter in form of a thatch and/or mat layer can cause several problems in turfgrass management systems. A previous greenhouse study on creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.) demonstrated that direct application of laccase solution every 2 wk reduced the rate of accumulation of organic matter and hence buildup of the thatch layer. A 2‐yr field study was conducted on an ultra‐dwarf bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. X C. transvaalensis Burtt Davy, ‘TifEagle’] research green, and zoysiagrass (Zoysia japonica Steud., ‘Meyer’) maintained as a home lawn to observe the influence of laccase enzyme applications on thatch development. Laccase solution was applied biweekly at the activity levels of 0 (control) and 2.1 units cm–2. Response to laccase enzyme applications by both the turfgrass species was recorded by measuring thatch layer physical and chemical properties after 6 mo of treatment applications within each year. A significant 18 to 22% and 21 to 30% reduction in thatch layer thickness was observed for bermudagrass and zoysiagrass, respectively. Organic matter content (0–2.5 cm) decreased by 23 to 24% while saturated hydraulic conductivity increased by 19 to 30% for bermudagrass in both years. Acid‐soluble and ‐insoluble lignin was reduced in both turfgrass species after laccase treatments. Results indicate that bi‐weekly application of laccase on bermudagrass and zoysiagrass has positive impact on thatch management.
Soybean Response to Sulfur Fertilizer Applied as a Broadcast or Starter Using Replicated Strip Trials
Authors: Kaiser Daniel E. , Kim Ki‐In
Published: June 2013

Sulfur fertilizer is not recommended for soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] production in the northern Corn Belt even though responses to S have been occurring more frequently in other crops. The objectives of this study were to determine the impact of fluid fertilizer combinations containing N, P, and S on early S uptake, soybean grain yield, and S removal and to evaluate various soil and plant tissue testing factors for predicting S need. Field trials were conducted at four locations, one with a sandy soil and three locations with finer soil textures. Preplant broadcast S was compared with liquid starter N and NP combinations applied with and without S 5 cm beside and below the seed row. Nitrogen increased soybean early plant mass while S increased plant S concentration, uptake, S removal in grain, and grain protein concentration but decreased seed oil concentration. Soybean grain yield was increased by S at one location and was not increased by N or P. Grain yield response to S occurred only when soil organic matter concentration was<20 g kg–1. The factor best correlated to yield response to S was grain S concentration, followed by tissue S concentration at the R2 growth stage and whole‐plant S concentration at the V5 stage. Extractable SO4–S in the soil was negatively correlated to yield response to S. The data indicate that soybean plants will accumulate S in higher quantities than needed for growth and development and that yield response is possible under limited circumstances.
Maximum Rates of Seed Placed Fertilizer for Corn for Three Soils
Authors: Kaiser Daniel E. , Rubin John C.
Published: June 2013

Fertilizer is placed in the seed row with corn (Zea mays L.) to increase plant growth. Fertilizers contain salts that have the potential for damaging roots and reducing plant emergence. The objective of this study was to determine the rates of fertilizer sources that can safely be placed with the corn seed for three soils with differing chemical properties. Eleven liquid and dry fertilizer sources were tested at five rates in the greenhouse on three soils: clay loam (CL), fine sand (FS), and silt loam (SiL). After 14 d of plant growth, final stand counts and plant mass were used to develop damage index values using the mean and product of relative plant emergence and plant mass. Predicted rates indicated that 10.6 kg N + K ha–1 could be applied for CL and SiL soils while the rate was 5.7 kg for the FS. Predicted rates using total N plus K agreed with rates predicted when using the salt index of the fertilizer times the rate applied except for ammonium thiosulfate (ATS) and a low‐salt N–P–K fertilizer source. Better predictions were made when N and S were considered for ATS and only N for the low‐salt fertilizer. Both models predicted rates similarly for the FS, but the N plus K model was more conservative for the CL and SiL soils. The data indicate that a single model could be used for predicting seed‐safe rates for multiple fertilizer sources; however, care must be taken because predicted rates may assume optimal soil moisture.
Global Relationships of Pedodiversity and Biodiversity
Authors: Ibáñez Juan José , Feoli Enrico
Published: June 2013

Current studies indicate that biodiversity and pedodiversity may have similar patterns, for example diversity–area relationships. This study examines pedodiversity and biodiversity–area relationships on a global scale using countries as spatial units. The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) soil database and International Union for the Conservation of Nature–World Commission on Protected Areas (IUCN–WCMC) biological datasets have been used in this analysis. The results show that biodiversity of biological target groups (the number of species of vascular plants, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, and the total number of species of vertebrates) and pedodiversity (the number of pedotaxa or soil types at the second level of FAO classification) conform to the power law. The two types of diversity are strongly correlated at the global level. When a country has high pedodiversity it has also high biodiversity, and since pedodiversity may be interpreted as an expression of environmental heterogeneity in terms of geological parent material, geomorphology, and climate of a given area, this result suggests that the biodiversity of a country depends both on the extent of its area and on its environmental heterogeneity. We are conscious of the limitations of the results due to the inherent imprecision of the data set used for this study; however, we think that this analysis could motivate interest in continuing to study the pedodiversity–biodiversity relationships with a new pedotaxonomy that would take into consideration the deep regolith layers.
Geophysical and Hyperspectral Data Fusion Techniques for In‐Field Estimation of Soil Properties
Authors: Casa Raffaele , Castaldi Fabio , Pascucci Simone , Basso Bruno , Pignatti Stefano
Published: June 2013

There is great interest in the development of inexpensive and rapid soil mapping methods for precision agriculture applications. Proximal and remote soil sensing are particularly valuable for this purpose, and there is great scope for their synergic use. The objective of this study was to compare different methods allowing the joint exploitation of hyperspectral satellite data and geophysical data for estimating soil properties at the field scale. Soil samples were collected in an agricultural field in Central Italy for the determination of several soil properties. Satellite images were acquired by the CHRIS‐PROBA sensor, both under bare soil conditions and when the field was covered by a wheat crop. Geophysical data were obtained by the automatic resistivity profiling method (ARP), providing apparent soil electrical resistivity of the 0 to 50 cm layer. Regression‐kriging (RK), partial least square regression (PLSR), and a combination of PLSR with geostatistics through kriging of the PLSR residuals (PLSR‐K) were applied to estimate soil properties by employing all combinations of the available covariates. A multiple jack‐knifing procedure was used for a statistical comparison of the ratio of performance to deviation (RPD) statistics across 300 replicates. Clay, sand, and available soil water content were estimated with a sufficient degree of accuracy (RPD > 1.4), especially when using the RK technique. PLSR‐K estimated these variables with intermediate ability by using only remote sensing covariates and obtained, in most cases, better results than PLSR. For other soil variables, the prediction ability was unsatisfactory (RPD < 1.4) due to smaller sample and range and weaker correlation with the covariates.
Influence of fermentation conditions on production of plum (Prunus domestica L.) wine: A response surface methodology approach
Authors: Miljic Uros , Puskas Vladimir
Published: June 2013

Plum (Prunus domestica L.) is the most important and most commonly grown
fruit species in Serbia, one of the leading plum-producing countries. It is
mainly used for table consumption, drying and fruit brandy production. The
use of plums for wine production is not sufficiently investigated. The aim of
this study was to investigate the influence of temperature, pH and duration
of fermentation on the plum wine composition and quality, and to optimize
these factors by response surface methodology (RSM). Second order polynomial
equations, which represent fitted models for investigated responses, are
shown as adequate (R2 > 0.90 and P < 0.05). The average values of ethanol and
glycerol content in plum wine were 6% and 5 g/L, respectively, while high
methanol concentrations (above 1000 mg/L) were recorded in all wine samples.
This requires further investigation of possible procedures to reduce the
methanol content in the wines, according to its toxic properties to human.
Optimal conditions for plum wine production, obtained with the application of
RSM, were 18.3 ?C (temperature), 3.0 (pH) and 7 days (fermentation time).
Apart from the problem of very high methanol concentrations, plum wine
produced with the optimal conditions had good sensory properties and
acceptability.
The Integration of Women and Minorities into the Auditing Profession since the Civil Rights Period
Authors: Madsen Paul E.
Published: June 2013

Following the Civil Rights Movement and the “quiet revolution” in women's work over the years from 1950 to 1970, women and minorities increasingly joined the auditing profession while the profession ramped up efforts to encourage integration. The purpose of this study is to rigorously examine how the integration of auditors has evolved since the civil rights and quiet revolution period. The primary distinctive feature of this study is that it evaluates the auditing profession's integration by comparing it to samples of occupations similar to auditing for the purpose of isolating auditing-specific forces influencing integration. I find that the pay structure in auditing is unusually equal, consistent with “equal pay for equal work.” The results for women, Hispanics, and miscellaneous minorities are consistent with members of these groups responding as one might expect to equal pay in auditing: groups that are poorly paid in other occupations select into auditing at higher rates, and groups that are well paid in other occupations select out of auditing at higher rates. The results for blacks are anomalous in that their pay in auditing has been good relative to many comparable occupations, but they have nevertheless been poorly represented in auditing. There are a number of theories that could potentially explain why blacks may be anomalously underrepresented in auditing. To begin to test them, I perform an exploratory analysis of the representation of women and minorities among college freshmen, college graduates, and young auditors. The results suggest that accounting is a popular degree among black college freshmen and that a relatively high percentage of accounting graduates are black. However, although they are well represented in the pool of potential new auditors, black accounting graduates enter the auditing profession at very low rates relative to other occupations requiring levels of education similar to auditing. The results suggest that black underrepresentation in auditing is not due to a lack of awareness among, or role models for, young blacks.

Data Availability: Data used in this study are available in the IPUMS-CPS database, which is compiled and distributed by the Minnesota Population Center at the University of Minnesota; the National Survey of College Graduates, which is available from the National Science Foundation; and the Freshmen Survey of the Higher Education Research Institute, which is available to registered users of its website.
Analysis and synthesis of converter control system of autonomous induction generator with field oriented control
Authors: Jakubowski Błażej , Pieńkowski Krzysztof
Published: June 2013

The paper presents the mathematical model of an autonomous induction generator with the AC load circuit and the converter control system of the voltage magnitude at the terminals of stator generator. The control algorithm and the structure of the control system are described. The simulation results of the control system are presented and discussed.
LIPID PEROXIDATION AND OXIDATIVE PROTEIN PRODUCTS IN CHILDREN WITH EPISODIC FEVER OF UNKNOWN ORIGIN / LIPIDNA PEROKSIDACIJA I OKSIDATIVNI PROTEINSKI PRODUKTI KOD DECE SA EPIZODINOM GROZNICOM NEPOZNATOG UZROKA
Authors: Radović Jelena , Vojinović Jelena , Bojanić Vladmila , Jevtović-Stoimenov Tatjana , Kocićs Gordana , Milojković Maja , Veljković Andrej , Marković Ivana , Stojanovic Svetlana , Pavlović Dušica
Published: June 2013

Background: Episodic fever syndromes are commonly seen in pediatric practice. Episodic fever of unknown origin (FUO) lasts for a few days or weeks and is followed by a fever-free period with a sense of well-being. In this condition, activated neutrophils and monocytes intensively generate reactive oxidative species that may further damage various mole- cules. The aim of the study was to evaluate oxidative stress biomarkers, lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes and plasma, and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) in children with episodic FUO.

Methods: The study enrolled 25 children with episodic FUO in afebrile phase and 25 healthy children as controls. Lipid peroxidation was evaluated by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) production with the thiobarbituric-acid-reactive sub- stances (TBARS) assay in erythrocytes and plasma. Oxidative modification of proteins was measured spectrophotometri- cally by the determination of AOPP in plasma.

Results: Mean duration of episodic fevers was 3.96±2.8 years. Erythrocyte MDA levels were higher in children with FUO than in controls (86.26± 10.75 vs. 78.0±3.21 nmol/g hemoglobin), although not significantly (p=0.202). The MDA plasma concentrations were similar (2.42±0.35 vs. 2.41 ±0.39 (xmol/L) between the groups (p=0.732). Unexpectedly, levels of AOPP were significantly lower in chil- dren with FUO than in healthy controls (18.8±5.04 vs. 25.1 ±3.35 nmol/L, p=0.047).

Conclusions: Episodic fevers of unknown origin with an aver- age duration of 3.96±2.8 years do not cause significant oxidative modifications of lipids and proteins in children.
Cervical spine alignment, sagittal deformity, and clinical implications
Authors: Scheer Justin K. , Tang Jessica A. , Smith Justin S. , Acosta Frank L. , Protopsaltis Themistocles S. , Blondel Benjamin , Bess Shay , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Deviren Vedat , Lafage Virginie , Schwab Frank , Ames Christopher P. , _ _
Published: June 2013

This paper is a narrative review of normal cervical alignment, methods for quantifying alignment, and how alignment is associated with cervical deformity, myelopathy, and adjacent-segment disease (ASD), with discussions of health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Popular methods currently used to quantify cervical alignment are discussed including cervical lordosis, sagittal vertical axis, and horizontal gaze with the chin-brow to vertical angle. Cervical deformity is examined in detail as deformities localized to the cervical spine affect, and are affected by, other parameters of the spine in preserving global sagittal alignment. An evolving trend is defining cervical sagittal alignment. Evidence from a few recent studies suggests correlations between radiographic parameters in the cervical spine and HRQOL. Analysis of the cervical regional alignment with respect to overall spinal pelvic alignment is critical. The article details mechanisms by which cervical kyphotic deformity potentially leads to ASD and discusses previous studies that suggest how postoperative sagittal malalignment may promote ASD. Further clinical studies are needed to explore the relationship of cervical malalignment and the development of ASD. Sagittal alignment of the cervical spine may play a substantial role in the development of cervical myelopathy as cervical deformity can lead to spinal cord compression and cord tension. Surgical correction of cervical myelopathy should always take into consideration cervical sagittal alignment, as decompression alone may not decrease cord tension induced by kyphosis. Awareness of the development of postlaminectomy kyphosis is critical as it relates to cervical myelopathy. The future direction of cervical deformity correction should include a comprehensive approach in assessing global cervicalpelvic relationships. Just as understanding pelvic incidence as it relates to lumbar lordosis was crucial in building our knowledge of thoracolumbar deformities, T-1 incidence and cervical sagittal balance can further our understanding of cervical deformities. Other important parameters that account for the cervical-pelvic relationship are surveyed in detail, and it is recognized that all such parameters need to be validated in studies that correlate HRQOL outcomes following cervical deformity correction.
The Impact of Volunteer Corn on Crop Yields and Insect Resistance Management Strategies
Authors: Marquardt Paul , Terry Ryan , Johnson William
Published: June 2013

Volunteer corn (VC) has reemerged as a problematic weed in corn/soybean rotational cropping systems. This reemergence and increasing prevalence of volunteer corn has been correlated to an increased adoption of herbicide-resistant (HR) corn hybrids and the adoption of conservation tillage. Since the introduction of HR crops, control options, weed/crop competition, and other concerns (i.e., insect resistance management of Bt traits) have increased the amount of attention that volunteer corn is receiving. The objective of this review is to discuss what is known about VC prior to and after the introduction of HR crops, and to discuss new information about this important weed.
Optimal Binary Solvent Extraction System for Phenolic Antioxidants from Mengkudu (Morinda citrifolia) Fruit
Authors: Thoo Yin , Ho Swee , Abas Faridah , Lai Oi , Ho Chun , Tan Chin
Published: June 2013

Antioxidants have been widely used in the food industry to enhance product quality by preventing oxidation of susceptible substances. This work was carried out to maximise the recovery of total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radical-scavenging capacity and 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging capacity from Morinda citrifolia fruit via modification of the ethanol concentration, extraction time and extraction temperature at minimal processing cost. The optimised conditions yielded values of 881.57 ± 17.74 mg GAE/100 g DW for TPC, 552.53 ± 34.16 mg CE/100 g DW for TFC, 799.20 ± 2.97 µmol TEAC/100 g DW for ABTS and 2,317.01 ± 18.13 µmol TEAC/100 g DW for DPPH were 75% ethanol, 40 min of time and 57 °C. The four responses did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) from predicted values, indicating that models obtained are suitable to the optimisation of extraction conditions for phenolics from M. citrifolia. The relative amounts of flavonoids were 0.784 ± 0.01 mg quercetin/g of extract and 1.021 ± 0.04 mg rutin/g of extract. On the basis of the results obtained, M. citrifolia extract can be used as a valuable bioactive source of natural antioxidants.
Nouveaux regards sur l'expression poétique d'Homère
Authors: Rosén Haiim Baruch
Published: June 2013

L'auteur se propose de saisir la nature véritable de l'épopée homérique en restituant la prosodie primordiale, préhistorique, précédant l'émergence des restrictions quantitatives spécifiques des dialectes grecs. Après avoir montré des spécimens d'accentuation restituée à partir des règles portant sur l'accentuation indo-européenne, il montre que la structure de la poésie homérique peut être saisie à la lumière de cette accentuation restituée.
La divination dans les chœurs de l'Agamemnon d'Eschyle
Authors: Adrados Francisco Rodriguez
Published: June 2013

En poursuivant des études faites précédemment sur les unités élémentaires du théâtre et les modifications qu'elles subissent, aux mains des poètes, au service de l'intention dramatique, sont ici proposées quelques idées sur la façon dont le thème de la divination s'est implanté dans les types traditionnels des chœurs hérités de la lyrique pré-théâtrale. C'est en effet surtout dans les chœurs que s'exprime la divination, grâce à l'usage de laquelle Eschyle est parvenu à créer un nouvel instrument dramatique qui précède, accompagne, et explique l'action, le passé et l'avenir.
Sur la vie de Ctésias
Authors: Eck Bernard
Published: June 2013

Ctésias de Cnide, auteur notamment de Persica et médecin à la cour d'Artaxerxès II, a connu une existence assez mouvementée. Certains épisodes de sa vie sont bien attestés (missions diplomatiques), mais d'autres demeurent obscurs (durée de son séjour en Perse, dernière période de sa vie). Une extrême prudence est donc de mise pour qui veut donner des réponses définitives en ce qui concerne une éventuelle orientation partisane et du personnage et de son œuvre. En tout cas, Ctésias mérite le statut d'historien qu'on lui a trop souvent refusé.