bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Effect of Amphiphilic Crown Ether Azoprobes on Alkali Metal Ion Recognition and Aggregation Behavior in Water
Authors: Sato Fuyuki , Tsukano Miki , Sakamoto Koki , Umemoto Wakako , Hashimoto Takeshi , Hayashita Takashi
Published: December 2008

Amphiphilic azoprobes having a crown ether moiety (15C5–Azo–Cn; n=4, 6, 8, and 12 and 18C6–Azo–Cn; n=4, 6, and 8) were synthesized. We examined the effect of alkyl spacer length of the amphiphilic azoprobes on the spectral response to alkali metal ions in water by UV–vis spectral and 1H NMR measurements. 15C5–Azo–Cn exhibited self-assembly in response to K+ selectively and the most selective response to K+ was observed for an azoprobe possessing a hexyl spacer unit (15C5–Azo–C6). 15C5–Azo–C12 formed nano-size aggregates. 18C6–Azo–Cn (n=6 and 8) showed Cs+ selectivity and its molecular aggregation behavior was similar to that of 15C5–Azo–Cn.
Remarkable Substituent Effects on the Oxidizing Ability of Tetraarylbismuthonium Tetrafluoroborates in Alcohol Oxidation
Authors: Matano Yoshihiro , Suzuki Takeshi , Iwata Takaharu , Shinokura Tomonori , Imahori Hiroshi
Published: December 2008

Substituent effects on the oxidizing ability of tetraarylbismuthonium tetrafluoroborates in alcohol oxidation are reported. Intermolecular and intramolecular competition experiments on geraniol oxidation by the combined use of tetraarylbismuthonium tetrafluoroborates and N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylguanidine (TMG) have revealed that the oxidizing ability of the bismuthonium salt increases by the introduction of methyl groups at the ortho position and an electron-withdrawing group at the para position of the aryl ligands. The intermolecular and intramolecular H/D kinetic isotope effects observed for the competitive oxidation of p-bromobenzyl alcohols have shown that the present oxidation reaction consists of fast pre-equilibrium leading to alkoxytetraarylbismuth(V) intermediates (first step) and α-hydrogen abstraction by the aryl ligand attached to the bismuth (second step). The experimental results demonstrate that the electron-deficient aryl ligands enhance the electrophilicity at the bismuth center to put forward the first step and that the bulky ligands destabilize the alkoxybismuth(V) intermediates to accelerate the second step. The newly explored mesityl- and 2,6-xylyltriarylbismuthonium salts have proven to convert primary and secondary alcohols to the corresponding carbonyl compounds with high efficiency under mild conditions. A remarkable steric effect of these oxidants has also been exhibited in the chemoselective oxidation between primary and secondary benzylic alcohols.
Improvement of Co3O4 Nanoparticle Synthesis in Apoferritin Cavity by Outer Surface PEGylation
Authors: Tsukamoto Rikako , Muraoka Masahiro , Fukushige Yoshitsugi , Nakagawa Hiromichi , Kawaguchi Tomohiro , Nakatsuji Yohji , Yamashita Ichiro
Published: December 2008

The outer surface of horse spleen apoferritin (HsAFr) was chemically modified by poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) to prevent bulk precipitation during artificial biomineralization of the cobalt-oxide core (Co3O4) in its cavity. Two kinds of PEGs, with average molecular weights of 2000 and 5000 were covalently attached (PEGylation) on the outer surface of HsAFr and suppressed the bulk precipitation drastically, whereas neither free PEGs nor short PEG (N-{2-[2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy]ethanoyloxy}succinimide) performed such suppression. The PEGylated HsAFr accommodated fully developed Co3O4 cores and achieved a high yield of homogeneous Co3O4 nanoparticles. Investigation of the early biomineralization stage suggested that [CoIIIO] complex ions were accumulated around the negatively charged outer surface of HsAFr.
Electrocatalytic Reduction of Nitrate Using Cu–Pd and Cu–Pt Cathodes/H+-Conducting Solid Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Assemblies
Authors: Hasnat Mohammad Abul , Ishibashi Isao , Sato Kiwako , Agui Ryoko , Yamaguchi Tsuyoshi , Ikeue Keita , Machida Masato
Published: December 2008

Electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate ions (NO3−) was carried out over Cu–Pd and Cu–Pt bimetallic cathodes, which were deposited on a Nafion-117 H+-conducting polymer membrane. By applying DC current to the membrane–electrode assembly (MEA), H2 evolved on the cathode caused monotonic degradation of NO3− in the cathode compartment. The NO3− reduction proceeded in a consecutive manner and copper increased significantly the catalytic activity for the first step from NO3− to NO2−. The Cu–Pd and Cu–Pt cathodes, with 38 and 20 mol % Cu, respectively, exhibited the highest reduction rate. The product selectivity was also dependent on the content of Cu. The Cu–Pd cathode showed a lower selectivity to NO2− and a higher selectivity to NH4+, because the catalytic activity for NO2− reduction is high. The rate of nitrate reduction was increased by supplying CO2, which plays a role of a buffer to keep pH lower than 7 and promotes the reaction, 2NO3−+5H2→N2+2OH−+4H2O.
Guessing imagined and live chance events: Adults behave like children with live events
Authors: Robinson E. J. , Pendle J. E. C. , Rowley M. G. , Beck S. R. , McColgan K. L. T.
Published: December 2008

An established finding is that adults prefer to guess before rather than after a chance event has happened. This is interpreted in terms of aversion to guessing when relatively incompetent: After throwing, the fall could be known. Adults (N=71, mean age 18;11, N=28, mean age 48;0) showed this preference with imagined die‐throwing as in the published studies. With live die‐throwing, children (N=64, aged 6 and 8 years; N=50, aged 5 and 6 years) and 15‐year‐olds (N=93, 46) showed the opposite preference, as did 17 adults. Seventeen‐year‐olds (N=82) were more likely to prefer to guess after throwing with live rather than imagined die‐throwing. Reliance on imagined situations in the literature on decision‐making under uncertainty ignores the possibility that adults imagine inaccurately how they would really feel: After a real die has been thrown, adults, like children, may feel there is less ambiguity about the outcome.
Psychophysiological effects of biofeedback treatment in tinnitus sufferers
Authors: Heinecke Kristin , Weise Cornelia , Rief Winfried
Published: December 2008

Objectives. Psychophysiological factors in maintaining tinnitus‐related distress have been emphasized in current tinnitus models. Hyperreactivity in the autonomous nervous system is supposed to hinder habituation processes and might contribute to maladjustment to tinnitus symptoms in the long run. Accordingly, biofeedback treatment targeting physiological activity ought to reduce tinnitus annoyance and facilitate habituation.

Subjects. One hundred and thirty patients completed a manual‐based psychological treatment especially developed for chronic tinnitus sufferers. A subsample consisting of 67 participants were randomly assigned to a waiting list (3 months) and served as a control group. The programme consisted of 15 sessions of cognitive‐behavioural therapy combined with a psychophysiological treatment using a biofeedback approach.

Method. Different muscle regions of the head and neck and skin conductance level were assessed with biofeedback equipment. Physiological treatment effects were analysed using the pre‐post effect sizes in comparison to the waitlist group. Correlations for physiological changes and psychological treatment effects were computed.

Results. Moderate to large effect sizes for physiological changes were demonstrated. Physiological and psychological treatment effects were found to be unrelated.

Discussion. Our treatment approach, which combined biofeedback therapy with CBT elements, was found to be highly effective in reducing psychophysiological activation. Psychological and physiological variables seem to represent independent response systems.
Rejected! Cognitions of rejection and intergroup anxiety as mediators of the impact of cross‐group friendships on prejudice
Authors: Barlow Fiona Kate , Louis Winnifred R. , Hewstone Miles
Published: December 2008

In a sample of White Australians (N =273), cross‐group friendship with Aboriginal Australians was associated with reduced cognitions of rejection and intergroup anxiety, and these variables fully mediated the effect of cross‐group friendship on conversational avoidance of sensitive intergroup topics, active avoidance of the outgroup, and old‐fashioned prejudice. The novel mediator proposed here, cognitions of rejection, predicted intergroup anxiety, and also predicted the three outcome variables via intergroup anxiety. Over and above its indirect effects via anxiety, cognitions of rejection directly predicted both conversational and active avoidance, suggesting that whilst the cognitive and affective mediators are linked, they predict intergroup outcomes in different ways. The results demonstrate the beneficial impact of cross group friendship in reducing prejudice and avoidance by diminishing cognitions of rejection and intergroup anxiety. We also highlight that individuals without cross‐group friends may perceive the outgroup as rejecting, feel anxious about cross‐group interaction, and desire both conversational and physical avoidance of the outgroup.
Effects of victim gender, victim sexual orientation, victim response and respondent gender on judgements of blame in a hypothetical adolescent rape
Authors: Davies Michelle , Rogers Paul , Whitelegg Lisa
Published: December 2008

Objectives. Few studies have examined the judgements made towards adolescent rape victims, and none have investigated attributions towards gay male or lesbian adolescents. The current study examined the effects victim gender, victim sexual orientation, victim response, and respondent gender, on attributions of blame in the depicted rape of a 15‐year old adolescent.

Methods. A total of 164 respondents read details of this assault before completing 15 attribution judgments.

Results. Respondents were expected to attribute more blame to a victim who was male, gay, and who failed to resist the perpetrator. Male respondents were also expected to be more blaming of the victim than females. Overall these hypotheses were supported.

Conclusion. Results are discussed in relation to the role gender stereotypes and homophobia play within attributions blame in sexual assault cases. Specifically, it seems male adolescent rape victims are subjected to the same negative stereotypes as male adult victims. Implications and ideas for future research are considered.
Concentrations of C-Reactive Protein and B-Type Natriuretic Peptide 30 Days after Acute Coronary Syndromes Independently Predict Hospitalization for Heart Failure and Cardiovascular Death
Authors: Scirica Benjamin M , Cannon Christopher P , Sabatine Marc S , Jarolim Petr , Sloane Sarah , Rifai Nader , Braunwald Eugene , Morrow David A ,   for the PROVE IT–TIMI 22 Investigators
Published: December 2008

Background: Heart failure (HF) is an important cause of morbidity in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). C-reactive protein (CRP) has been implicated in experimental models as exacerbating myocardial injury, but data regarding the clinical relationship of high-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) concentrations with the risk of HF after ACS are few.

Methods: PROVE IT–TIMI 22 randomized 4162 patients who had been stabilized after ACS to either intensive or moderate statin therapy. hsCRP and BNP were measured 30 days after randomization. Hospitalizations for HF and cardiovascular death occurring after day 30 were assessed for a mean follow-up of 24 months.

Results: Patients who developed HF had higher concentrations of hsCRP (3.7 mg/L vs 1.9 mg/L, P < 0.001) and BNP (59 ng/L vs 22 ng/L, P < 0.0001). HF increased in a stepwise manner with hsCRP quartile [adjusted hazard ratio (HRadj) for Q4 vs Q1, 2.5; P = 0.01] and BNP quartile (HRadj for Q4 vs Q1, 5.8; P < 0.001), with similar results obtained for HF and cardiovascular death. In a multivariable analysis, higher concentrations of hsCRP and BNP were both independently associated with HF [HRadj, 1.9 for hsCRP >2.0 mg/L (P = 0.01) and 4.2 for BNP >80 ng/L (P < 0.001)]. Patients with increases in both markers were at the greatest risk of HF, compared with patients without an increased marker concentration (HRadj, 8.3; P = 0.01). The benefit of intensive statin therapy in reducing HF was consistent among all patients, regardless of hsCRP or BNP concentration.

Conclusions: Both hsCRP and BNP measured 30 days after ACS are independently associated with the risk of HF and cardiovascular death, with the greatest risk occurring when both markers are increased.
The Hungarian banking system 20 years after modernisation
Authors: Várhegyi É.
Published: December 2008

Introducing the two-tier banking system in 1987 was a pivotal step in modernising the Hungarian economy. For the last two decades the Hungarian banking industry has significantly changed regarding ownership, institutional and market structures. The quality of financial services has considerably improved. Financial deepening has taken place as a result of organic developments as well as government policies. Bank clients have, no doubt, gained a lot in terms of quality and price of services. However, as international comparisons of market efficiency demonstrate, elimination of oligopolistic market structures in retail banking should further enhance consumer welfare.
Model-based sensitivity analysis of the Hungarian economy to macroeconomic shocks and uncertainties
Authors: Bíró A. , Elek P. , Vincze J.
Published: December 2008

In this paper we analyse the most important mechanisms of the Hungarian economy with the help of a medium-sized quarterly macroeconomic model developed jointly by the Economic Policy Department of the Ministry of Finance and the Institute of Economics of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. After introducing the building blocks of the model we investigate, within a scenario analysis, the effects of the main factors behind the macroeconomic and budgetary processes. The sources of uncertainty — defined in a broad sense — are categorised into three groups: changes in the external environment (e.g. an adverse external business cycle shock or an exchange rate shock), uncertainties in the estimated behaviour of economic agents (e.g. in the speed of wage adjustment or in the extent of consumption smoothing), and economic policy decisions (such as the increase of public sector wages). Taking into account the complex relationships between the various areas of the economy, we analyse the short and medium term consequences of such shocks and uncertainties on GDP, its components, the general government deficit and the public debt. We also show that the macroeconomic consequences of the uncertainties are not independent of each other: for instance, the effects of an exchange rate shock are influenced by the speed of wage adjustment.
Banking reform in China: International standards and Chinese specifics
Authors: Kudrna Z.
Published: December 2008

This paper reviews the progress of banking reforms in China. Since 2002, the reform strategy has relied on publicly-financed bailouts, implementation of international best practices in bank governance and regulation, and listing of major banks in Hong Kong. The three largest banks have been stabilised, but we find little reason to expect this to be sustainable. Prudential indicators are comparable to international averages, but this is an outcome of bailouts and ongoing credit boom. Reforms of bank governance and regulatory frameworks that would alter banker’s incentives are implemented in a selective manner; principles that concentrate key powers in the centre are implemented vigorously, whereas those that require independent boards and regulators are ignored. Selectiveness of institutional reform means that the largest banks remain under state control and can be used as means of development policy for the better or the worse.
Legislative frameworks for port concessions in Greece
Authors: Patsiadas P. , Angelides D. C.
Published: December 2008

In Greece the legislative framework for concession contracts is mainly governed by recently enacted Law 3389/2005 related to public–private partnerships (PPPs). This paper first sets out the key provisions of the new law, which is basically divided into three main sections: (a) terms, field of application and central support mechanism; (b) award process; (c) contractual framework, financing and tax details. The paper then considers the particular situation of concession contracts involving Greek authorities. Recently, the Greek state started the simultaneous transformation of the twelve main port authorities from public to private entities (sociétés anonymes). Two of these entities (Piraeus and Thessaloniki) signed concession contracts with the state, according to which the usage and exploitation of existing and future infrastructure is accorded – in return for a fee – to the port authorities. Finally, other structures of financial cooperation in the port sector are also proposed, such as the creation of joint-venture partnerships.
Market Consistent Pricing of Insurance Products
Authors: Malamud Semyon , Trubowitz Eugene , Wüthrich Mario V.
Published: December 2008

We present the first step in a program to develop a comprehensive, unified equilibrium theory of asset and liability pricing. We give a mathematical framework for pricing insurance products in a multiperiod financial market. This framework reflects classical economic principles (like utility maximization) and generates pricing algorithms for non-hedgeable insurance risks.
Analytic Solution for Return of Premium and Rollup Guaranteed Minimum Death Benefit Options Under Some Simple Mortality Laws
Authors: Ulm Eric R.
Published: December 2008

Much attention has been focused recently on the issue of valuing guaranteed minimum death benefits embedded in annuity contracts. These benefits resemble a sequence of put options and their value should obey a differential equation similar to the Black-Scholes equation for simple put options. This paper derives a number of analytic solutions to this equation for a number of simple mortality laws.
Economic Capital Allocations for Non-negative Portfolios of Dependent Risks
Authors: Furman Edward , Landsman Zinoviy
Published: December 2008

In this paper we explore the problem of economic capital allocations in the context of non-negative multivariate (insurance) risks possessing a dependence structure. We derive a general result and illustrate it with a number of useful examples. One such example, for instance, develops explicit expressions for the discussed economic capital decomposition rule when the underlying portfolio consists of dependent compound Poisson risks.
Characterization of PVDF hollow-fiber membrane foulants on drinking water treatment
Authors: Sasaki T. , Hanaizumi N. , Minegishi S. , Henmi M. , Shimizu Y.
Published: December 2008

It is important to probe the cause of membrane fouling from the aspect of water qualities. The resultant technical findings on membrane foulants enable the development of low-fouling membranes and reflect a streamlined process for water purification with stable productivity. This study shows the relationships between the fouling rate of PVDF microfiltration (MF) membranes and NOM characteristics in Lake Biwa (Japan) detected by DAX fractionation and GPC-TC. The amount of the specific NOM (hydrophilic acid: HiA from DAX fractionation) is correlated with the increasing rate of filtration resistance, and the membrane foulants consist of aliphatic carboxylates and calcium ions. From the GPC-TC measurements, the specific NOM around 2,000 Da partially remains on the membrane to indicate a primary ingredient of foulants, while the high-molecular weight NOM (MW > 40,000) is removed without trace by the backwashing process.
Biofilm control using chlorine-based disinfectants in model drinking water distribution systems
Authors: Hu J. Y. , Fang W. , Yu B.
Published: December 2008

Model distribution systems (annular reactors) were operated to investigate the biofilm disinfection efficacies of three disinfectants: free chlorine, monochloramine and combination of free chlorine and silver ion. Biofilm cell number, coverage and structure were examined. At the same dosages, monochloramine showed the poorest biofilm disinfection efficiency compared to free chlorine and combination of free chlorine and silver ion. 40 μg/l of Ag+ showed positive effect to both two dosages of chlorine (0.5 mg/l and 1 mg/l) to disinfect biofilm bacteria. In addition, combinations of free chlorine and silver ion were found to achieve the highest biofilm coverage reduction, while monochloramine showed the least biofilm removal. Biofilm structure could also be affected by different testing agents.
Aqueous natural organic matter removal by quaternary-ammonium-compound-modified iron-oxide-coated sand
Authors: Ding Chunli , Shang Chii , Chang Yujung
Published: December 2008

In this study, modification of iron-oxide-coated sand (IOCS) with three quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) was tested as a means to improve the removal of aqueous natural organic matter (NOM) by IOCS. The assessment was conducted in batch, isotherm setup with changes in types and concentrations of QACs, modification pH, additions of H2O2 during modification, and adsorption pH. IOCS modification with long chain QACs, including hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (HDTMA) and hexadecylbenzyldimethylammonium chloride (HDBDMA) significantly increased the adsorption of NOM, while coating IOCS with short chain QAC, tetrapropylammonium chloride (TPA) had no positive effect. The enhancement increased with increasing pH and increasing QAC concentration used during modification. Co-additions of long chain QACs with H2O2 during modification could further improve NOM adsorption. Modification of IOCS with 10.0 mM HDTMA at pH 9.9 with the 0.2% H2O2 addition doubled NOM adsorption capacity on IOCS at pH 9.1. The results presented here suggest that the modification of IOCS using long chain QACs can enhance NOM removal by IOCS during drinking water treatment.
NEWater—multi safety barrier approach for indirect potable use
Authors: Seah H. , Tan T. P. , Chong M. L. , Leong J.
Published: December 2008

Singapore, a small island city-state depends on four sources, namely local catchment, imported water from Malaysia, desalinated water, and NEWater, to provide for its daily water consumption of about 1.36 million m3 per day. NEWater, a high grade reclaimed water, is key in achieving water sustainability through the multiplying effect of water reuse. In addition to being used for direct non-potable use (DNU) in wafer fabrication processes and other industrial processes, NEWater is being injected into surface reservoirs for indirect potable use (IPU). To ensure the safety of NEWater for IPU, PUB has adopted a multi barrier safety approach. The multi safety barrier approach starts from source and extends to taps in households in stages, namely source control; greater than 85% of wastewater from domestic source; comprehensive secondary wastewater treatment; microfiltration (MF) process, reverse osmosis (RO) process and ultra-violet (UV) disinfection in NEWater production; natural attenuation in surface reservoirs; as well as conventional water treatment process of coagulation, flocculation, sand filtration and disinfection. The approach is further enhanced by a comprehensive water quality monitoring programme that includes emerging contaminants of concern and a strict operating philosophy. The water quality test results are in turn reviewed by experts from local universities as well as overseas experts of international standing. Over the years of operations, NEWater has been found to be well within WHO Drinking Water Guidelines and USEPA Drinking Water Standards and each safety barrier has a significant role to play in ensuring the safety of NEWater for IPU.
Modelling raw water quality—development of a drinking water management tool
Authors: Kübeck Ch. , van Berk W. , Bergmann A.
Published: December 2008

Ensuring future drinking water supply requires a tough management of groundwater resources. However, recent practice of economic resource control often does not involve aspects of the hydrogeochemical and geohydraulical groundwater system. In respect of analysing the available quantity and quality of future raw water, an effective resource management requires a full understanding of the hydrogeochemical and geohydraulical processes within the aquifer. For example, the knowledge of raw water quality development with time helps to work out strategies of water treatment as well as planning finance resources. On the other hand, the effectiveness of planned measurements reducing the infiltration of harmful substances such as nitrate can be checked and optimized by using hydrogeochemical modelling. Thus, within the framework of the InnoNet program funded by Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology, a network of research institutes and water suppliers work in close cooperation developing a planning and management tool particularly oriented on water management problems. The tool involves an innovative material flux model that calculates the hydrogeochemical processes under consideration of the dynamics in agricultural land use. The program integrated graphical data evaluation is aligned on the needs of water suppliers.
Evolution of the relation between human society and urban water from ancient roman times to modern urbanization
Authors: Monteleone Maria Carmela
Published: December 2008

The acceptance of water structures into cities in varying degrees dates back to the first human agglomerations, water being essential to life. The impact of those systems and technologies on the surrounding environment and its evolution up to modern times is the object of this paper, concerning the comparison between ancient Roman water culture, the Roman empire being a place where water was first made available on a mass scale, and the modern concepts of urban water systems planning.

The comparison considers the functionalities and social values attributed to water in the urban spaces, and methods used to learn and practice technologies. The result is a vision of water that is not limited to the idea of a human need to maintain life, but also as an essence for life renovation and well being, that can be useful in the process of rebalancing the relationship between human communities and the other species and elements living within human agglomerations.
Institucije slobode - Hegelova filozofija prava u danasnjim diskusijama
Authors: Wischke Mirko
Published: December 2008

(nemacki) In den Diskussionen der Politischen Philosophie und Ethik ist es bis vor kurzem wenig sinnvoll gewesen, die Frage zu stellen, ob die Lekt?re von Hegels Rechtsphilosophie noch lehrreich ist. Dass Hegels Rechtsphilosophie zu aktuellen Diskussionen und gegenw?rtigen Problemschwerpunkten keinen wirklich substanziellen Beitrag mehr zu geben scheint, ist von John Rawls in seinen Vorlesungen zur Moralphilosophie relativiert und von Axel Honneth mit einer dezidierten Rehabilitierung zentraler ?berlegungen der Hegelschen Rechtsphilosophie in Frage gestellt worden. Und mit seiner Kritik an Honneths Ansatz einer Aktualisierung ist von R?diger Bubner eine Diskussion um die Frage ausgel?st worden, welche Teile der Rechtsphilosophie als die chancenreichsten Aktualisierungspotentiale anzusehen sind. Der folgende Beitrag exponiert zun?chst (I.) in Hegels Begriff des 'freien Willens' einen Problemaufriss, der als Voraussetzung unabdingbar ist, um (II.) die Interpretationsans?tze zu verstehen, von denen aus Honneth und Bubner f?r eine Aktualisierung der Hegelschen Rechtsphilosophie pl?dieren. Sodann gibt (II.2) eine stark verk?rzte Darstellung Auskunft ?ber den Gedanken, der f?r Honneths Rekonstruktion und Aktualisierung der Hegelschen Rechtsphilosophie von zentraler Bedeutung ist. Daran schlie?t sich (II.2) eine knappe Darlegung von Bubners ?berlegungen an, von der aus abschlie?end (III.) eine dritte Alternative - die bei Rawls anklingt, ohne dass er sie als solche wahrnimmt - auf ihr Aktualisierungspotential gepr?ft werden soll.
Political imagery: Sick philosopher and other as poison1 on violence and hypochondria
Authors: Bojanic Petar
Published: December 2008

U ovom radu pokusavam da rekonstruisem Levinasovo citanje Hegela i njegovo razumevanje nasilja (neprijatelja i rata), sluzeci se tekstovima Franza Rosenzweiga o Hegelovoj drzavi i Derridinom interpretacijom razlicitih atributa nasilja kod Emmanuel Levinasa. Interesovace me klasifikacija nekih figura nasilja iz razlicitih perioda Hegelovog zivota i njihovi tragovi u Levinasovim tekstovima pocevsi od teksta 'Libert? et commandement' iz 1953. godine. Analiza slavne Hegelove analogije iz njegove Rechtsphilosophie o suverenosti i organizmu, odnosno citanje nekih paragrafa njegove Naturphilosophie, treba da objasne vezu izmedju totaliteta i nasilja, kao i Levinasovu 'ontologiju kao alergologiju' odnosno Derridinu autoimunologiju. PR Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. 149031: Regionalni i evropski aspekti integrativnih procesa u Srbiji: civilizacijske pretpostavke, stvarnost i izgledi za buducnost.
The classical cosmopolitanian idea: Arguments for the world government
Authors: Prelevic Dusko
Published: December 2008

The Cosmopolitan idea of the World Government is quite rarely proposed in theory of international relations. Kant already claimed that this idea oscillates between anarchy and brute despotism. This is the reason why he described this standpoint as naive. The author tries to show that alternative theories, such as realism, Kantian and Rawlsian versions of statism and the conception of multilayered scheme of sovereignty, lead to more serious problems. The first one is rejected for the reason of the 'prisoner's dilemma' it implies. It is also argued that the Kantian version of statism is either inconsistent, or allows for totalitarian states if they have peaceful international politics. Many liberals reject Rawls's position because of his tolerant attitude towards 'decent peoples'. On the other hand, the conception of multilayered scheme of sovereignty is dismissed because of the non-existence of a unified decision-making procedure in global politics. At the end of the paper, the author defends Classical Cosmopolitanism theory from Kant's objections and indicates the main obstacles to its realization.
Avant-garde: Making war, revolutionary politics and art
Authors: Jeremic-Molnar Dragana , Molnar Aleksandar
Published: December 2008

In the article the authors are dealing with the militant potential of the concept of avant-garde. Emerging in the politics and art in the first half of the 19th century and designed to ruin almost the whole tradition of 'bourgeois' enlightenment, political and artistic avant-garde was never capable of emancipating itself from its roots in strategic military thinking. Its true essence was to create battlefields in every domain of public life where the chance was given to ruin civil society - its politics, its art, its way of thinking, its civilization. In the name of freedom never heard of before, it spread violence and spread totalitarian seeds on the scorched soil. And in the end it was not defeated by its numerous enemies because it became victim of its own destructiveness.
Lipase catalyzed synthesis of flavor esters in non-aqueous media: Optimization of the yield of pentyl 2-methylpropanoate by statistical analysis
Authors: Knezevic-Jugovic Zorica , Bezbradica Dejan , Jakovljevic Zivana , Brankovic-Dimitrijevic Suzana , Mijin Dusan
Published: December 2008

In this study, the synthesis of pentyl 2-methylpropanoate employing a commercial lipase from Candida rugosa was investigated, the emphasis being placed on analyzing the effects of various process conditions on the yield of ester. The response surface methodology (RSM) and five-level-five-factor central composite rotatable design (CCRD) were used to evaluate the effects of variables, namely the initial water content, 0.0-2.0% (w/v), the reaction temperature, 35-75?C, the enzyme concentration, 1.0-5.0 g dm-3, the acid/alcohol mole ratio, 1:2-5:2, and the reaction time, 4-48 h, on the yield (%) of ester. The production of pentyl 2-methylpropanoate was optimized and an ester yield response equation was obtained, enabling the prediction of ester yields from known values of the five main factors. It seems that the enzyme concentration, reaction time and acid/alcohol mole ratio predominantly determine the conversion process, while the amount of added water amount had no significant influence on the ester yield. Conversion of around 92 % of the substrate to ester could be realized using a concentration of lipase as low as 4.0 g dm-3 and in a relatively short time (26 h) at 35?C, when a high substrate mole ratio of 2.5 was used.
HPLC-DAD of phenolics in bryophytes Lunularia cruciata, Brachytheciastrum velutinum and Kindbergia praelonga
Authors: Jockovic Nebojsa , Andrade Paula , Valentão Patrícia , Sabovljevic Marko
Published: December 2008

The chemistry of bryophytes is not well known. The available data indicate interesting chemical constitutions of some bryophyte species, i.e., active and new compounds are to be found within bryophytes, especially liverworts. In this study, one liverwort and two moss species were studied: Lunularia cruciata (L.) Dumort, Brachytheciastrum velutinum (Hedw) Ignatov & Huttunen and Kindbergia praelonga (Hedw) Ochyra. The phenolic compositions of these bryophyte species have not hitherto been reported. Their methanolic extracts were analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC, coupled to a diode-array detector (DAD). Luteolin-7-O-glucoside and quercetin were found in the L. cruciata extract. The extract obtained from B. velutinum contained four phenolic acids (4-O-caffeoylquinic, 5-O-caffeoylquinic, caffeic and ellagic acids) and three flavonoids (apigenin-7-O-glucoside, luteolin and apigenin). The K. praelonga extract was characterized by the presence of several phenolic acids and their derivatives (4-O-caffeoylquinic, 5-O-caffeoylquinic, caffeic, p-coumaric, ferulic and ellagic acids, and caffeic and p-coumaric acid derivatives) and three flavonoids (apigenin-7-O-glucoside, luteolin, apigenin and an unidentified flavanone). .
Solvent extraction of Ca2+, Ba2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, Pb2+, UO22+, Mn2+, Co2+ and Ni2+ into nitrobenzene using strontium dicarbollylcobaltate and tetra-tert-butyl p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene tetraacetate
Authors: Makrlík E. , Budka J. , Vaňura P. , Selucký P.
Published: December 2008

The exchange extraction constants corresponding to the general equilibrium M2+(aq) + SrL2+(nb) ? ?ML2+(nb) + Sr2+(aq) occurring in the two- -phase water-nitrobenzene system (M2+ = Ca2+, Ba2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, Pb2+, UO22+ , Mn2+, Co2+ or Ni2+; L = tetra-tert-butyl p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene tetraacetate; aq = aqueous phase; nb = nitrobenzene phase) were evaluated from extraction experiments and ?-activity measurements. Furthermore, the stability constants of the ML2+ complexes in water saturated nitrobenzene were calculated; they were found to increase in the cation order Ba2+ < Mn2+ < Pb2+, Co2+ < Cu2+, Zn2+ < Cd2+, Ni2+ < UO22+ < Ca2+.
Electronic structures and spectra of conducting anthracene derivatives
Authors: Wang Zhongfa , Wu Shi
Published: December 2008

Theoretical studies on anthracene and a series of its derivatives were performed using the AM1 method and DFT. Based on B3LYP/6-31G(d) optimized geometries, the electronic, IR and NMR spectra of anthracene oligomers were calculated using the Indo/Cis, AM1 and B3LYP/6-31G(d) methods, respectively. The energy gaps of the oligomers decreased and the main absorptions in the electronic spectra of the oligomers were red-shifted, whereas the IR frequencies for some of the C=C and C-H bonds were blue-shifted with increasing chain length and in the presence of substituents. The 13C-NMR chemical shifts of the bridged carbon atoms were upfield shifted in the presence of an electron-donating group, while the chemical shifts of the carbon atoms on the two side rings of the anthracene moiety shifted downfield in the presence of an electron-withdrawing group.
Photoelectrochemical properties of sol-gel obtained titanium oxide
Authors: Panic Vladimir , Stevanovic Sanja , Miskovic-Stankovic Vesna , Jovanovic Bratislav , Nikolic Branislav
Published: December 2008

The photoelectrochemical properties of a sol-gel prepared titanium oxide coating applied onto a Ti substrate were investigated. The oxide coating was formed from an inorganic sol thermally treated in air at 350?C. The coating consisted of agglomerates of narrow size distribution around 100 nm. The photoelectrochemical characteristics were evaluated by investigating the changes in the open circuit potential, current transients and impedance characteristics of a Ti/TiO2 electrode upon illumination by UV light in H2SO4 solution and in the oxidation of benzyl alcohol. The electrode was found to be active for photoelectrochemical reactions in the investigated solutions.
Determination of dimethoxyphenethylamine derivatives in urine by deuterium labeled internal standards
Authors: Xu Ya-Zhu , Lin Huei-Ru , Lua Ahai-Chang , Chen Chinpiao
Published: December 2008

The use of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in forensic analysis is increasing. To exploit fully the capabilities of MS, labeled standards, that can be used to improve the performance of the quantitative analysis, and to increase accuracy and precision, are required. A series of deuterated internal standards, corresponding to the 2C-series of phenethylamine derivatives, including 4-bromo-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine-d6 (2C-B), 4-chloro- 2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine-d6 (2C-C), 4-iodo-2,5-dimethoxy-phenethylamine-d6 (2C-I), 4-ethylthio-2,5-dimethoxy-phenethylamine-d6 (2C-T-2) and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-n-propylthiophenethylamine-d6 (2C-T-7), were synthesized. These deuterated compounds were used to analyze for the corresponding unlabeled compounds in urine. The analysis was performed using GC-MS, with the selected ion monitoring (SIM) technique, whereby good results were achieved.
Study of solute-solvent interactions of nicotinic acid and benzoic acid in methanol and its binary solvent systems
Authors: Roy Nath , Sarkar Lovely , Sarkar Kumar
Published: December 2008

The apparent molar volumes, ?V, and viscosity B-coefficients, B, for nicotinic acid (NA) and benzoic acid (BA) in mixed solvents containing 10, 20, 30 mass % of n-amyl alcohol (n-AmOH) or isoamyl alcohol (i-AmOH) in methanol and in pure methanol (MeOH) were determined from the solution density and viscosity measurements at 298.15 K as function of concentrations of NA and BA. These results were, in conjunction with the results obtained in pure methanol, used to deduce the partial molar volumes of transfer, 0 ??V , and viscosity B-coefficients of transfer, ?B, for NA and BA from methanol to different mixed methanol solvents, in order to rationalize various interactions in the ternary solutions. An increase in the transfer properties of NA and BA with increasing mass % of n-AmOH and i-AmOH in methanol was observed and explained by the effect of structural changes and preferential solvation. Also, the free energies of viscous flow, ? 0? 1 ? and ? 0? ?2 , per mole of solvent and solute, respectively, were calculated and analyzed on the basis of the transition state theory of relative viscosity.
The acute effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine on oxidative stress in rat brain
Authors: Simic Ivan , Malicevic Zivorad
Published: December 2008

Introduction Oxidative stress and oxygen free radicals are thought to play an important role in acute effects of a number of neurotoxic processes. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy), a ring substituted amphetamine derivate, has attracted a great deal of media attention in recent years due to its widespread abuse as recreational drug by the young generation. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the acute effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine on oxidative stress parameters (index of lipid peroxidation - ILP, superoxide radicals O2-, superoxide dismutase - SOD and glutathione - GSH) in frontal cortex, striatum and hippocampus in Wistar rats. Materials and methods The study included 40 male Wistar rats (200-250 g), housed 4 per cage having free access to food and water. MDMA was dissolved in distillated water and administered peroraly at 5, 10, 20 or 40 mg/kg. 8 hours following MDMA, the rats were killed by decapitation, their brains were rapidly removed and the brain structures were dissected out on ice and analyzed biochemically. Results Acute peroral administration of a single dose (5, 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) resulted in increase of ILP, O2-, SOD and decrease of GSH. Conclusion The results obtained in the present study suggest that oxidative stress plays a crucial role in MDMA-induced neurotoxicity and that the mechanism of MDMA neurotoxycity may vary between brain regions.
Work stressors among physicians with and without the acquired cardiovascular disorders: Assessment using the Occupational Stress Index
Authors: Nedic Olesja , Belkic Karen , Filipovic Danka , Jocic Neda
Published: December 2008

The Occupational Stress Index (OSI) questionnaire for physicians was used in a case-control study, with a high participation rate (>90%). The study was carried out among physicians employed at clinical institutions in Novi Sad, receiving their medical care at the health center situated within the Novi Sad clinical center. The cases were physicians with one or more of the acquired (potentially stress-related) cardiovascular disorders (ACVD) (myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, arterial hypertension and certain arrhythmias). The control group included physicians without manifest ACVD. Two OSI dimensions: high demands (p<0.05) and threat avoidance (p<0.05) were dominant in showing significantly higher exposure levels among the cases. The most consistent and significant stressors that distinguished the physicians with ACVD from the referents were long work hours, speed-up and threat of job loss. Personality patterns were not associated with case status. Physicians are a heavily burdened occupational group, and several occupational stressors are significantly associated with case status. Improvements in working conditions as well as early diagnosis are essential for preventing further increases in these disorders among physicians. The next step would be multidisciplinary intervention studies aimed at the work environment, with the goal of identifying scientifically-based strategies that are most effective in preventing ACVD among physicians.
Influence of fibrinolitic potential reduction in ischemic brain disease development
Authors: Vuckovic Biljana , Djeric Mirjana , Zarkov Marija
Published: December 2008

Introduction Vascular brain diseases are the third leading cause of morbidity and mortality today. Among them ischemic brain disease caused mostly by cerebral atherosclerosis makes almost 80%. The main risk factors for this disease are arterial hypertension, dislipoproteinemia and diabetes but, recently hemostatic system disorders have also been underlined, especially fibrinolytic disorders. Physiology of fibrinolysis The primary role of fibrinolytic system is to make blood vessels passable by prevention of thromb forming or by removing the existing ones. This role is enabled by constant dynamic balance between activators and inhibitors of fibrinolysis. The leading activators are tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and urokinase plasminogen activator (u-PA) and the most important inhibitors are 2-antiplasmin, plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) and thrombin activated fibrinolytic inhibitor (TAFI). Fibrinolysis and thrombosis In patients with atherosclerosis there is clear insufficiency of fibrinolysis caused mainly by the increased activity of fibrinolytic inhibitors. There is evidence that the level of PAI-1 connected to fibrin directly affects thromb resistance to fibrinolysis and that velocity of thromb lysis in vitro predominantly depends on TAFI concentration. Factor XIII also has influence on thromb structure and stability and Lp(a) lipoprotein is one more factor that is responsible for resistency of thromb to fibrinolysis. Fibrinolysis in ischemic brain disease Reduced fibrinolytic capacity is noticed in patients with ischemic brain disease resulting from the increased PAI-1 activity. Higher risk for ischemic brain disease is verified among people with 4G/4G PAI-1 genotype. Raised level of t-PA antigene can also induce reduction of endogenous fibrinolysis. Conclusion In conclusion we want to underline that a possible pathophysiological significance of fibrinolytic system is assumed in a high percentage of patients with ischemic brain disease. Because of that we need further investigations to establish precise role of fibrinolytic mechanisms in genesis of this disease.
Endogenous anticonvulsants: Neuropeptide Y and delta sleep inducing peptide
Authors: Stanojlovic Olivera , Hrncic Dragan , Radosavljevic Tatjana
Published: December 2008

Introduction The same neuropeptides regulate both cycle sleep-wake and excitability of the brain. Conclusion Literature data together with our results support the idea that delta sleep - inducing peptide and neuropeptide Y could represent one of the factors of the endogenous stabilization of brain excitability and potent antiepileptic in generalized metaphit-induced audiogenic convulsive activity. The same holds true for DSIP analogues.
Cardiovascular risk factors in workers at Health Centre in Beocin
Authors: Petrovic Biljana , Jasarevic-Komljenovic Zlata , Srdic Biljana , Stokic Edita
Published: December 2008

Most cardiovascular diseases are caused by atherosclerosis, which is a result of interactions between risk factors such as gender, age, blood lipid concentrations, blood pressure, glucose tolerance, adiposity, physical activity and cigarette smoking. Identification of risk factors is the first step in cardiovascular disease prevention. As health workers contribute significantly to cardiovascular morbidity, the aim of our study was to analyze prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and to assess the level of mentioned risk in health workers employed in Health Centre Beocin. The study group consisted of 50 health workers. Obesity was evaluated according to BMI and body fat (BF%) values, while central obesity was defined using waist circumference. Serum lipid concentrations and glycaemia were used in metabolic profile definition. The level of physical activity was assessed using IPAQ, and information about smoking status and family history of cardiovascular diseases was obtained from self-report. Framingham point-scoring system was used to predict the risk for development of coronary heart disease in the 10-year period. Overweight was found in 36%, and obesity in 18% subjects. 42% of examined subjects had higher fat mass, while 24% of them had obesity. Central fat accumulation was observed in 50% subjects. We registered 56% smokers, 70% subjects with positive family history, 28% subjects with hypertension, and 56% subjects with dyslipidemia. According to IPAQ results 20% of exanimate subjects were minimally active and 70% were insufficiently active. Estimated risk of coronary heart disease was 7.38%, and 10% subjects had risk over 20%. In spite of lower cardiovascular risk level, our results showed high prevalence of overweight, smoking and physical inactivity in health workers, which suggests the importance of their own lifestyle modification. It should be the first step in increasing motivation of their patients.