bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of CTE–temperature curves of HCP with hydration time
Authors: Xuan Dongxing , Shui Zonghe
Published: November 2011

Hydrating cement paste (HCP) may be considered as a kind of porous material. The changes of its pore system and internal moisture state with cement hydration certainly influence its thermal expansion response. This study investigated the influence of hydration time on the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of HCP. Specimens (inner diameter 8 mm × 50 ± 0·5 mm long) were prepared using two water/cement ratios of 0·32 and 0·42. The linear thermal expansion of HCP was measured by a fused silica dilatometer after the HCP had been cured for different periods. The CTE–temperature curves of HCP were plotted from 30 to 60°C at intervals of 5°C. The results demonstrated that the CTE–temperature curve showed an approximately linear decrease, and its linear slope can be regarded as a strong logarithmic function of hydration time. Moreover, its linear slope showed a linear relationship with the degree of hydration. This evidence may potentially be used to show that the hydration development of pure ordinary Portland cement paste can be estimated on the basis of its thermal expansion characteristics over different hydration periods.
The effect of clinker SO3 on the mineralogical composition of the cement and its expected impact on sulfate resistance level
Authors: Horkoss Sayed , Lteif Roger , Rizk Toufic
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to clarify the influence of the SO3 on the mineralogical composition of low-alkali clinker and to evaluate its expected impact on the cement sulfate resistance level. The influence of the clinker sulfate on amounts of aluminate, alite and alite/belite ratio was investigated. The solubility rate of the clinker anhydrite was studied. The results showed that the clinker phases were affected by the amount of clinker SO3. The amounts of the aluminate, alite and alite/belite ratio were lower, in the high-SO3 clinker, than that calculated. Based on these results, cement produced with clinker containing around 2% sulfate and low alkali were expected to have a higher sulfate resistance level than the classical one with similar chemical composition. It was also found that formation of the soluble anhydride was not feasible. The anhydrite that was present in the clinker containing over 2% SO3, seemed to be dissolved completely within 5 days.
Periodontal Disease Decreases Insulin Sensitivity and Insulin Signaling
Authors: Colombo Natalia H. , Shirakashi Daisy J. , Chiba Fernando Y. , Sara de Lima Coutinho Maria , Ervolino Edilson , Saliba Garbin Cléa Adas , Machado Ubiratan Fabres , Sumida Doris H.
Published: November 2011

Background: The purpose of this study is to investigate whether local inflammatory events, such as periodontal disease, are able to increase tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) plasmatic concentration and decrease insulin sensitivity and insulin signaling in non‐diabetic rats.

Methods: Forty‐eight male Wistar rats (2 months old) were divided into two groups, with either ligature‐induced periodontal disease (LPD) or control conditions (CN). Experiments were performed in both groups 28 days after ligature placement. Plasmatic concentration of glycemia and TNF‐α (n = 10) were analyzed by the glucose oxidase and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method, respectively. Insulin sensitivity (n = 7) was measured using the insulin tolerance test. Insulin signal transduction (n = 7) was measured by pp185 tyrosine phosphorylation status in insulin‐sensitive tissues using the Western blotting method.

Results: The LPD group showed decreased insulin sensitivity (P <0.05), although no glycemic alterations were noted (P >0.05). TNF‐α plasmatic concentration was higher in LPD rats compared to CN rats. In addition, a decrease in the pp185 tyrosine phosphorylation status was observed after insulin stimulus in both white adipose and skeletal muscle tissues of the LPD group compared with the CN group.

Conclusions: LPD is able to cause alterations to both insulin signaling and insulin sensitivity, probably because of the elevation of TNF‐α plasmatic concentration. Thus, the present results emphasize the importance of the prevention of local inflammatory diseases, such as periodontitis, to prevent diabetes mellitus.
Pozzolanic mortars based on waste building materials for the restoration of historical buildings
Authors: Pasalic Snezana , Vucetic Snezana , Zoric Dmitar , Ducman Vilma , Ranogajec Jonjaua
Published: November 2011

The environmental aspects of waste building materials have been of great
interest in recent years. For the sector of building materials this means
increased recycling, reduction of energy consumption and natural resources
preservation. This also presents an important contribution in the field of
environmental protection. The work deals with the development of pozzolanic
mortars made of waste building materials, ground red structure bricks and raw
clay materials of inadequate characteristics for the production of ceramic
materials. Based on the results of historical mortar characterizations, a
group of mortars with specific characteristics (satisfied durability, good
compatibility with a historical mortar) was prepared. The potential of the
waste materials and domestic clay materials application in the production of
pozzolanic mortars was confirmed. In addition to the waste management,
pozzolanic mortars were designed taking into account the existing conventions
in the area of culture heritage.
X-ray structure of 1D-coordination polymer of copperII bearing 1,4-pyrazine-2,3-dicarboxylic acid and 2-aminopyrimidine
Authors: Mirzaei Masoud , Eshtiagh-Hosseini Hossein , Hassanpoor Azam , Barba Victor
Published: November 2011

The new 1D-coordination polymer of CuII ion, {(2- apymH)2[Cu(pyzdc)2]
.6H2O}n, (2-apym = 2-aminopyrimidine, pyzdcH2 = 1,4-
pyrazine-2,3-dicarboxylic acid), was synthesized based on proton transfer
mechanism and characterized by elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and
single crystal X-ray diffraction. The coordination polymer consists of
infinite anionic chains of [Cu(pyzdc)2]2- anion bridged crossing double chain
running along a-axis and discrete (2-apymH)+ fragment. The CuII ion is
located on inversion centre in the basal plane of an elongated octahedron and
two oxygen atoms from adjacent (pyzdc)2-ligands occupy axial position. The
interaction between oxygen atoms of water molecules along with the
dicarboxylic acid play an important role in the overall supramolecular
assembly.
New oxadiazole derivatives of isonicotinohydrazide in the search for antimicrobial agents: Synthesis and in vitro evaluation
Authors: Malhotra Manav , Sanduja Mohit , Samad Abdul , Deep Aakash
Published: November 2011

Structural modification of the front line antitubercular drug isoniazid
provide a lipophilic adaptations of the drug in which hydrazide moiety of
isoniazid is replaced by 1,3,4-oxadiazole heterocycles to eliminate in-vivo
acetylation by arylamine N-acetyltransferase which results to form inactive
acetylated drug. In the present study a series of sixteen oxadiazole
derivatives were synthesized and characterized by (IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and
Mass spectral) studies. All the synthesized compounds were evaluated for
their antimicrobial activity by broth dilution method against two Gram
positive strains (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus), two Gram
negative strains (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) and fungal
strain (Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger). The minimum inhibitory
concentration of the compounds was in the range of 1.56-50 ?g ml-1 against
bacterial and fungal strain. The results revealed that all synthesized
compounds have a significant biological activity against the tested
microorganisms. Among the synthesized derivatives 4g, 4h, 4m and 4p were
found to be most effective antimicrobial compounds.
Production and characterization of rhamnolipids from Pseudomonas aeruginosa san ai
Authors: Rikalovic Milena , Gojgic-Cvijovic Gordana , Vrvic Miroslav , Karadzic Ivanka
Published: November 2011

Production and characterization of rhamnolipid biosurfactant obtained by
strain Pseudomonas aeruginosa san ai was investigated. With regard to carbon
and nitrogen source several media were tested to enhance production of
rhamnolipids. Phosphate-limited proteose peptone-ammonium salt (PPAS) medium
supplemented with sun flower oil as a source of carbon and mineral ammonium
chloride and peptone as a nitrogen source greatly improved rhamnolipid
production, from 0.15 on basic PPAS (C/N ratio 4.0), to 3 g L-1, on
optimized PPAS medium (C/N ratio 7.7). Response surface methodology analysis
was used for testing effect of three factors: temperature, concentration of
carbon and nitrogen source (w/w), in optimized PPAS medium on rhamnolipid
production. Isolated rhamnolipids were characterized by IR and ESI-MS. IR
spectra confirmed that isolated compound corresponds to rhamnolipid
structure, whereas MS indicated that isolated preparation is a mixture of
mono-rhamno-mono-lipidic, mono-rhamno-di-lipidic- and dirhamno- di-lipidic
congeners.
Optimization of heterologous expression of banana glucanase in E. coli
Authors: Abughren Mohamed , Popovic Milica , Dimitrijevic Rajna , Burazer Lidija , Grozdanovic Milica , Atanaskovic-Markovic Marina , Gavrovic-Jankulovic Marija
Published: November 2011

For the heterologous production of a banana glucanase in Escherichia coli,
its gene (GenBank GQ268963) was cloned into a pGEX-4T expression vector as a
fusion protein with glutathione-S-transferase (GST). BL21 cells transformed
with the GST-Mus a 5 construct were employed for the protein production
induced by 1 mM of isopropyl-?-D-tiogalactopyranoside (IPTG). Conditions for
the protein expression were optimized by varying the temperature (25?C,
30?C, and 37?C) and duration of protein expression (3h, 6h and 12h). The
level of protein production was analyzed by densitometry of sodium dodecyl
sulfate - polyacrylamide gel (SDS-PAG) after electrophoretic resolution of
respective cell lysates. The optimal protein expression for downstream
processing was obtained after 12h of cell growth under 25?C upon addition
of IPTG. Recombinant GST-Mus a 5 purified by glutathione affinity
chromatography revealed a molecular mass of about 60 kDa. The IgE and IgG
reactivity of rGST-Mus a 5 was confirmed by dot blot analysis with
individual patient?s sera from subjects with banana allergy and polyclonal
rabbit antibodies against banana extract, respectively. Purified recombinant
glucanase is a potential candidate for banana allergy diagnosis.
Ultrasound-assisted catalytic synthesis of acyclic imides in the presence of p-toluenesulfonic acid under solvent free conditions
Authors: Nasr-Esfahani Masoud , Montazerozohori Morteza , Filvan Najmeh
Published: November 2011

A rapid and convenient preparation of acyclic imides by the reaction of
aliphatic and aromatic nitriles with acyclic carboxylic anhydride in the
presence of catalytic amounts of p-toluenesulfonic acid under thermal or
ultrasonic conditions is reported. The advantages of this procedure are
moderate reaction times, good to excellent yields, use of inexpensive and
ecofriendly catalyst. The reaction of nitriles with aliphatic anhydrides
proceeds in thermal conditions, while by the use of ultrasound irradiations
these reactions get accelerated.
Effects of changes in dynamic characteristics of the middle ear on transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions
Authors: Spiric Sanja , Spiric Predrag , Vranjes Dalibor , Aleksic Aleksandra
Published: November 2011

Transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions are transmitted through the middle
ear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of dynamic
properties of the transmission system on the measurability of transient
otoacoustic emissions. The authors analyzed the presence of transient
otoacoustic emissions in 48 children with serous otitis media regarding the
tympanogram, presence and type of effusion and pure tone average findings.
The results obtained in this research show the predominant absence of
transient otoacoustic emissions in patients with type B tympanogram (69.1%)
especially if the effusion is mucoid (77.5%) with the hearing loss of 15
decibel hearing level. This research shows that disorders in dynamic
characteristics of the middle ear in patients with serous otitis obstruct the
transmission of acoustic energy and affect the measurability of transient
otoacoustic emissions, especially if the effusion is mucoid and hearing loss
of 15 decibel hearing level.
Influence of the first episode duration on further course of bipolar disorder
Authors: Knezevic Vladimir , Nedic Aleksandra
Published: November 2011

Introduction. Bipolar disorder has been continuously studied due to its high
prevalence and incidence. The aim of this study was to explore the influence
of duration of the first episode of bipolar disorder on the further course of
this disorder. Material and Methods. The research was conducted as a
retrospective-prospective, naturalistic study, which included 65 bipolar
patients admitted to the hospital. We used Student?s t-test in addition to
descriptive parameters, mean, median and standard deviation. We followed the
5-year course of the disorder after the first episode. Results. Having
examined the medical records of the first episode and five-year follow-up of
the course of the disease we found a statistically significant difference (2
vs 1.54; df=120; p<0.05) in the number of episodes following the first
episode between the patients whose first episode was longer than 2 months and
the patients whose first episode was shorter than 2 months. In addition, we
found a statistically significant difference (55.42 vs 42.3; df=120; p<0.05)
in duration of episodes that followed the first episode between the patients
whose first episode was longer than 2 months and the patients whose first
episode was shorter than 2 months. Discussion. Since these results are in
accordance with the literature, we ought to point out the possibility of
developing chronic syndromes in patients with longer first episodes.
Conclusion. This study is a modest contribution to the trend of studying
bipolar disorder. Better knowledge of the course would enable better
treatment, prognosis and outcome of this disorder.
Thromboprophylaxis implementation during pregnancy in women with recurrent foetal losses and thrombophilia
Authors: Mitic Gorana , Novakov-Mikic Aleksandra , Povazan Ljubica , Mitreski Anita , Kopitovic Vesna , Vejnovic Tihomir
Published: November 2011

Recurrent foetal loss is a significant clinical problem, occurring in 1-5% of
reproductive females. Inherited or acquired thrombophilia has been diagnosed
in 50-65% of women with history of unexplained foetal loss. The low molecular
weight heparin was applied in 24 women with inherited thrombophilia and
previous recurrent foetal loss and in 6 women with primary antiphospholipid
syndrome throughout their following pregnancies. The dose of low molecular
weight heparin for the majority of women was 35-75 u/kg. Women with primary
antiphospholipid syndrome received both low molecular weight heparin and
aspirin 50-100 mg daily. Implementation of thromboprophylaxis resulted in
successful pregnancy outcome in 29 out of 38 pregnancies, which represents a
significant improvement of pregnancy outcome in comparison to previous 81
pregnancy losses. The number of treated pregnancies in our study is small,
but the rate of successful pregnancy outcomes is high (76%), indicating that
low molecular weight heparin may be a promising approach to women with
thrombophilia and recurrent foetal loss.
Frequency of vancomycin-resistant Enterococci isolated from blood cultures from 2008 to 2010
Authors: Mihajlovic-Ukropina Mira , Medic Deana , Jelesic Zora , Gusman Vera , Milosavljevic Biljana
Published: November 2011

Introduction. Enterococci are important hospital-acquired pathogens. The most
commonly isolated species of the genus, Enterococcus faecalis and
Enterococcus faecium are the third to fourth-most prevalent nosocomial
pathogens worldwide. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of
resistance to vancomycin and other antimicrobial agents of Enterococcus spp
strains isolated from blood cultures of hospitalized patients. Material and
methods. During the three-year period, from 2008 to 2010, 132 strains of
Enterococcus spp isolated from blood cultures of hospitalized patients were
tested for their susceptibility to ampicillin, vancomycin, gentamycin
(high-level resistance), erythromycin, chloramphenicol, teicoplanin,
ciprofloxacin by disc diffusion method according to the Clinical and
Laboratory Standards Institute recommendations. Susceptibility of vancomycin
resistant E. faecium to the same antibiotics and to linezolid,
quinopristin/dalfopristin and tigecyclin was determined using VITEK system.
Results and discussion. Resistance to vancomycin was detected in 21 (15.9%)
Enterococcus spp strains. The percentage of resistance to other antimicrobial
agents varied from 23.1% for chloramphenicol to 81.3% for ciproflxacin. All
vancomycin resistant enterococci were identified as E. faecium and belonged
to phenotype VanA. The resistance to other antibiotics was very high, except
for linezolid and quinopristin/dalfopristin (4.7%). The high-level
aminoglycoside resistance was 87.6% for gentamycin and 95.2% for
streptomycin. All isolates were resistant to ampicillin, teicoplanin and
ciprofloxacin. Conclusion. The detected high frequency of multidrug-resistant
isolates among vancomycin resistant enterococci is of great importance and
suggests the need for further monitoring of susceptibility in order to take
adequate measures to prevent and control spreading of resistant strains.
Dr. Livingroom, I Presume
Authors: Fessler Nicholas J.
Published: November 2011

This case places students in the context of personal negotiations with a health care provider regarding the price of offered services. This short but rich case is intended to be administered and discussed in a single hour-and-fifteen-minute class session, and enables instruction and discussion on important accounting concepts such as relevance, opportunity cost, breakeven, pricing, and fairness—in a personal-services setting.
The Personal Financial Reporting Project: A Student-Based Comprehensive Learning Project
Authors: Arel Barbara M. , Hughes Susan B. , Sander James F.
Published: November 2011

The Personal Financial Reporting Project is designed to help students better understand the basics of financial reporting by applying class concepts to their own financial situations. Through a series of monthly assignments, completed over a two- or three-month period, students identify their personal assets and liabilities, determine which of these are included within a balance sheet, develop an accounting system to track changes to their assets and liabilities and recognize revenue and expenses, prepare financial statements, and develop significant accounting policies. After the second assignment, each subsequent assignment builds on the prior part. As such, students must correct errors in the earlier parts to accurately finish the next assignment. The complete project is made up of five parts; however, during some semesters, the project was condensed to include only Parts 2 through 4. The latter approach may be very appropriate for programs on the quarter system. Students report the project enhances their understanding of accounting concepts, improves their ability to prepare accounting reports, helps them understand the articulation concept, and provides them with additional insight into their personal financial situation. The project motivates both top-tier students and those who do not perform as well on exams and quizzes.
Encouraging the Development of Critical Thinking Skills in the Introductory Accounting Courses Using the Challenge Problem Approach
Authors: Young Marilyn , Warren D. Lee
Published: November 2011

There are many obstacles to including critical thinking as a learning objective in Introductory Accounting courses. However, the presence of these obstacles does not change the collective conclusion from the accounting profession that critical thinking skills are a prerequisite for a successful accounting career and that accounting educators should assist students in the development of these skills. The purpose of this paper is to present a learning strategy, entitled the Challenge Problem approach, to encourage the development of critical thinking skills in Introductory Accounting courses. Under this approach, the development of critical thinking skills is a primary learning objective of Introductory Accounting courses that is fostered by an active learning environment in the classroom and supported by an experiential learning pedagogy. In addition, critical thinking skills are tested on each exam with a Challenge Problem. This paper presents two examples of Challenge Problems, along with rubrics to evaluate the students' performance. The rubrics identify the strengths and weaknesses in the students' critical thinking abilities and can improve the design of future critical thinking exercises in principles courses.
Teaching Inventory Accounting: A Simple Learning Strategy to Achieve Student Understanding
Authors: Greenberg Rochelle K. , Wilner Neil A.
Published: November 2011

This learning strategy offers an efficient and effective technique for teaching inventory in the introductory financial accounting course. It is motivated by the belief that many students memorize how to calculate the cost of goods sold and ending inventory under different cost flow assumptions, but that few understand the subject. This fundamental lack of understanding prohibits them from fully appreciating other issues, such as the difference between the physical flow and the cost flow assumption, the relevance of the cost flow assumption when computing cost of goods sold and income, and the irrelevance of the cost flow assumption when computing cash flow unless taxes are considered. Our learning strategy involves a convenience store selling three bottles of water. Inventory flow, cash flow, and the calculations of cost of goods sold, income, and ending inventory are illustrated under the first-in, first-out method; the last-in, first-out method; the weighted-average method; and specific identification.
Phenylpropanolamine toxicosis in dogs: 170 cases (2004–2009)
Authors: Peterson Katherine L. , Lee Justine A. , Hovda Lynn R.
Published: November 2011

Objective—To evaluate signalment, clinical signs, dose ingested, treatment requirements, duration of hospitalization, and outcome of dogs exposed to phenylpropanolamine.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—170 dogs with potential PPA toxicosis evaluated between 2004 and 2009.

Procedures—Dogs with potential PPA toxicosis were identified by reviewing the electronic database of an animal poison control center.

Results—66 of the 170 (39%) dogs reportedly did not develop any clinical signs. Clinical signs reported in the remaining 104 (61%) dogs included agitation (n = 40), vomiting (27), mydriasis (19), lethargy (17), tremor or twitching (16), panting (15), bradycardia (13), tachycardia (12), hypertension (11), and erythema (8). Median dose ingested for all dogs was 29 mg/kg (13.2 mg/lb). Dogs developing clinical signs had a significantly higher median dose ingested (373 mg/kg [170 mg/lb]) than did dogs that did not develop clinical signs (18 mg/kg [8.2 mg/lb]). Likewise, median dose ingested for the 123 dogs treated as inpatients (36.9 mg/kg [16.8 mg/lb]) was significantly higher than the median dose for the 14 dogs treated as outpatients (20.5 mg/kg [9.3 mg/lb]). Median duration of hospitalization was 18 hours (range, 4 to 72 hours), and hospitalization time increased as the dose ingested increased. Survival rate was 99.4% (169/170); the dog that died had ingested a dose of 145 mg/kg (65.9 mg/lb).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that with supportive care, the prognosis for dogs that had ingested an overdose of phenylpropanolamine was excellent.
Computation of the fundamental solution of electrodynamics for anisotropic materials
Authors: Yakhno Valery , Yaslan Handan , Yakhno Tatiana
Published: November 2011

A new method for computation of the fundamental solution of electrodynamics for general anisotropic nondispersive materials is suggested. It consists of several steps: equations for each column of the fundamental matrix are reduced to a symmetric hyperbolic system; using the Fourier transform with respect to space variables and matrix transformations, formulae for Fourier images of the fundamental matrix columns are obtained; finally, the fundamental solution is computed by the inverse Fourier transform. Applying the suggested approach, the fundamental solution components are computed in general anisotropic media. Computational examples confirm robustness of the suggested method.
Prescribers’ perspectives of the socioeconomic status and important indicators affecting prescribing behavior in a developing country
Authors: Shawahna Ramzi , Nisar-ur-Rahman  , Ahmad Mahmood , Debray Marcel , Declèves Xavier , Yliperttula Marjo , Blom Marja
Published: November 2011

Patients suffer differential prescribing behavior as a function of their socioeconomic status. The current study was conducted in a qualitative and two observational phases in Lahore metropolitan area to investigate physician’s perspectives of patients’ socioeconomic status and the important indicators influencing prescribing behavior. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with physicians (N=20) from 2 hospitals, 2 diabetes care centers and 2 private clinics and scripts were analyzed for socioeconomic indicators. In the second phase, the opinions of a panel of prescribers (N=43) on the influence socioeconomic indicators on prescribing behavior were elicited. In the third phase a bipolar 5-point Likert rating scale was used to elicit the importance of indicators for physicians (N=100) originated from urban and rural areas. In the interviews physicians gave 15 potential socioeconomic indicators. Following the two Delphi rounds, consensus was reached on 11 (73.3%) of the indicators, the remaining 4 (26.7%) were highly disputable. Bivariate analysis showed that literacy, educational background, compliance, dress and appearance were important indicators at the time of clinical decision making for physicians originating from urban areas than for physicians originating from rural areas. Physicians originating from urban and rural areas perceived the socioeconomic status differently.
Pregnancy length: Secular trends and patterns of variation in Sweden, 1982–2005
Authors: Vinicius Lucio , Tibbitts Holly
Published: November 2011

Anthropological and medical studies rarely investigate the existence of secular trends in the duration of human pregnancy, which is widely assumed to show less variation than traits such as body size, menarche or lifespan. Here we analyze pregnancy duration in the Swedish population between 1982 and 2005, and correlation patterns of four variables: pregnancy length, maternal height, newborn weight and newborn head circumference. Results reveal positive trends of very small magnitude in the four traits. Although bivariate correlations were all significant and positive, multiple linear regression shows a positive independent contribution of newborn size (both weight and head circumference) and a negative independent contribution of maternal height to pregnancy length. We propose that the very weak and negative independent contribution of maternal height to pregnancy duration, in contrast to the stronger and positive contribution of newborn size, explain the absence of significant secular trends in pregnancy duration in Sweden. The results confirm some of the predictions of the maternal investment hypothesis, the ‘obstetrical dilemma’, and Ellison's metabolic crossover hypothesis. Due to the weak association between pregnancy length and maternal height, we hypothesize that pregnancy length is expected to show limited secular change even in a population undergoing strong secular trends in maternal height.
Trepanation and artificial cranial deformations in ancient Armenia
Authors: Khudaverdyan Anahit
Published: November 2011

The purpose of the paper is to review surgical and ritual practices on people living on the Shirak Plateau (Armenia) during the Late Antiquity period (1st century BC – 3rd century AD) and is based on human remains uncovered at sites in Beniamin, Black Fortress I, Shirakavan, Karmrakar and Vardbakh. The basic demographic data for these cases, including the age and sex of the skeleton, the precise location of the trepanation, the form of the trepanation and instruments used, and the presence of any associated pathologies, injuries, diseases, or developmental deformities on the skeleton, are specified. The phenomenon of artificial skull and teeth modifications identified at ancient burials sites in Armenia clearly points to the emergence of social complexity and class differentiation, and hence the need for social distinction, which in this case was accomplished through the use of body markings. A compilation of case reports and information on trepanation and deformation is essential for a bioarcheological study of the procedure.
Age-related variability in buccal dental-microwear in Middle and Upper Pleistocene human populations
Authors: Pérez Beatriz Pinilla , Romero Alejandro , Pérez-Pérez Alejandro
Published: November 2011

Infants are thought to present a different buccal microwear pattern than adults and these, therefore, are generally analyzed separately. However, El-Zaatari & Hublin [2009] showed that occlusal texture in Neandertal and modern human juvenile populations did not differ from their elders. The microwear patterns of a sample of 193 teeth, corresponding to 61 individuals of Homo heidelbergensis, H. neanderthalensis and anatomically modern humans (AMH), were analyzed revealing that AMH infants up to 14 years old differ from older individuals in having fewer scratch densities, whereas the Neandertals have a much more variable microwear pattern. Age-at-death and dental age since emergence showed similar though somewhat diverging results, especially in the infant and subadult samples. Differences observed between the Neandertals and modern humans could be reflecting differential wearing patterns or distinct enamel structure and resistance to hard food items consumption. Interpopulation differences in striation densities were not apparent in either subadult or adult individuals, only adult Neandertals (26-45 yrs. old) showed fewer striations than the younger age groups. The AMH sample revealed a gradual cumulative pattern of striation density with age, suggestive of a non-abrupt change in diet.
‘Lonely, tragic, but legally necessary pilgrimages’: Transnational Abortion Travel in the 1970s
Authors: Palmer Beth
Published: November 2011

Abstract:

This article explores the work of the Calgary Birth Control Association with a particular focus on their referral service to help Albertan women obtain abortions in Seattle. The fact that Canadian women were travelling to the United States for abortions highlights the shortcomings of the Canadian health-care system and the legal changes in the 1969 omnibus bill. Cross-border travel is also compelling evidence for the argument that reproductive rights are an international issue. More particularly, this study demonstrates the tensions that reproductive-rights activists faced in addressing the needs of individual women vs the long-term objective of changing the laws and improving accessibility.
Empirical Analysis of Decision-Making and Tour Formation Process
Authors: Frignani Martina Z. , Auld Joshua , Mohammadian Abolfazl (Kouros)
Published: November 2011

The decision-making processes behind activity–travel planning and tour formation are still insufficiently understood. This lack of understanding is especially true in regard to seniors, the fastest growing age group in the United States. To understand these processes, activity–travel planning data collected in the Urban Travel Route and Activity Choice Survey for Chicago, Illinois, were analyzed. In this analysis, the activity planning behavior exhibited by respondents 65 years of age and older was compared with that of respondents younger than 65. The planning horizons and flexibilities of activity–travel attributes as well as the motivations for planning decisions were analyzed. Results revealed that elderly people tended to make fewer routine and more preplanned decisions, whereas younger people made more routine or impulsive decisions. People were highly inflexible in regard to activity location choice, but they were much more flexible when making timing decisions. An analysis of tour formation revealed that advanced age played a role in trip chaining behavior and that differences between younger and older people were observed in temporal distribution of tours, the activity planning horizon, and multistop-tour mode choice. These results re important because of the general unavailability of such decision-making process data.
Barriers to Teenage Mobility in the Greater Toronto Area, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Marzoughi Reihane
Published: November 2011

Conventional approaches to the management of transportation demand have had limited success in reducing automobile dependency. As a result, it has become increasingly important to understand the decision-making processes involved in determining travel behavior. To develop a more complete picture of travel behavior, research should consider diverse groups of travelers with various mobility abilities and needs. Research on urban form and travel behavior was extended beyond adult travel by examining teen travelers of 13 to 19 years of age in the greater Toronto area, Ontario, Canada. The issue was probed through the collection of quantitative and qualitative travel data from first-year students at the University of Toronto. The survey explored attitudes toward different modes in relation to the locational attributes of the respondent's hometown neighborhood. The narratives of the survey participants illustrate that the final travel choice is determined by the presence of supportive infrastructure that not only facilitates active mode choices but also shapes the perceptions and attitudes that teens form as a result of daily travel experiences. Findings underscore the importance of providing genuine choices that meet the needs of teens and other travelers with limited mobility.
Estimating Value of Travel Time Savings by Using Large-Scale Household Survey Data from Japan
Authors: Kato Hironori , Sakashita Ayanori , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Oda Takanori , Tanishita Masayoshi
Published: November 2011

Expressways provide road users with reduced travel time and safer driving conditions for a toll. The toll charge has been one of the most important issues in expressway planning. The user's willingness to pay for saving travel time by using an expressway service is one of the most important factors in examining toll charges for expressways. A large Japanese database was used to empirically estimate road users' value of travel time savings (VTTS). The results showed that the estimated VTTS of business travel was nearly equal to or a little lower than the average wage rate in Japan, whereas the estimated VTTS of home-to-workplace and private travels was lower than the estimated VTTS of business travel. VTTS increased with the trip length. The estimated VTTS from 07:00 to 09:59 was higher than during other periods. The estimated VTTS of individuals in their 20s and in their 60s was lower than that of individuals in other age groups. The estimated VTTS of men was a little higher than that of women. The estimated VTTS per vehicle when a person was driving alone was higher than the estimated VTTS per vehicle when a driver has passengers. The estimated VTTS of production and transport workers was lower than the estimated VTTS of people in other jobs. A toll charge should reflect the VTTS of road users, so policy implications for the charge were examined.
New Roles Assigned to the α1–β1 (and α2–β2) Interface of the Human Hemoglobin Molecule from Physiological to Cellular
Authors: Sugawara Yoshiaki , Yamada Mai , Ueno Eriko , Okazaki Mai , Okamoto Aya , Miyake Mariko , Fukami Fusako , Yano Ai
Published: November 2011

Cellular life is reliant upon rapid and efficient responses to internal and external conditions. The basic molecular events associated with these processes are the structural transitions of the proteins (structural protein allostery) involved. From this view, the human hemoglobin (Hb) molecule (α2β2) holds a special position in this field. Hb has two types of αβ interface (i.e., α1β1 [and α2β2] and α1β2 [and α2β1]). The latter α1–β2 (and α2–β1) interface is known to be associated with cooperative O2 binding, and exhibits principal roles if the molecule goes from its deoxy to oxy quaternary structure. However, the role of the former α1–β1 (and α2–β2) interface has been unclear for a long time. In this regard, important and intriguing observations have been accumulating. A new role was attributed first as stabilizing the HbO2 tetramer against acidic autoxidation. That is, the α1–β1 (and α2–β2) interface produces a conformational constraint in the β chain whereby the distal (E7) histidine (His) residue is tilted slightly away from the bound O2 so as to prevent proton-catalyzed displacement of O2– by a solvent water molecule. The β chains thus acquire pH-dependent delayed autoxidation in the HbO2 tetramer. The next role was suggested by our studies searching for similar phenomena in normal human erythrocytes under mild heating. Tilting of the distal (E7) His in turn triggered degradation of the Hb molecule to hemichrome, and subsequent clustering of Heinz bodies within the erythrocyte. As Heinz body-containing red cells become trapped in the spleen, it was demonstrated that the α1–β1 (and α2–β2) interface may exert delicate control of the fate (removal) of its own erythrocyte. Herein we review and summarize the related results and current interpretation of the oxidative behavior of human Hb, emphasizing the correlation between hemichrome emergence and Heinz-body formation, and specifically discuss the new roles assigned to the α1–β1 (and α2–β2) interface. The α1–β1 (and α2–β2) interface seems to adequately differentiate between the two types of function (dual roles) from physiological to cellular.
Impact of Temporary Nitrogen Deprivation on Tomato Leaf Phenolics
Authors: Bénard Camille , Bourgaud Frédéric , Gautier Hélène
Published: November 2011

Reducing the use of pesticides represents a major challenge of modern agriculture. Plants synthesize secondary metabolites such as polyphenols that participate in the resistance to parasites. The aim of this study was to test: (1) the impact of nitrogen deficiency on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) leaf composition and more particularly on two phenolic molecules (chlorogenic acid and rutin) as well as on the general plant biomass; and (2) whether this effect continued after a return to normal nitrogen nutrition. Our results showed that plants deprived of nitrogen for 10 or 19 days contained higher levels of chlorogenic acid and rutin than control plants. In addition, this difference persisted when the plants were once again cultivated on a nitrogen-rich medium. These findings offer interesting perspectives on the use of a short period of deprivation to modulate the levels of compounds of interest in a plant.
An Efficient Method for Genomic DNA Extraction from Different Molluscs Species
Authors: Pereira Jorge C. , Chaves Raquel , Bastos Estela , Leitão Alexandra , Guedes-Pinto Henrique
Published: November 2011

The selection of a DNA extraction method is a critical step when subsequent analysis depends on the DNA quality and quantity. Unlike mammals, for which several capable DNA extraction methods have been developed, for molluscs the availability of optimized genomic DNA extraction protocols is clearly insufficient. Several aspects such as animal physiology, the type (e.g., adductor muscle or gills) or quantity of tissue, can explain the lack of efficiency (quality and yield) in molluscs genomic DNA extraction procedure. In an attempt to overcome these aspects, this work describes an efficient method for molluscs genomic DNA extraction that was tested in several species from different orders: Veneridae, Ostreidae, Anomiidae, Cardiidae (Bivalvia) and Muricidae (Gastropoda), with different weight sample tissues. The isolated DNA was of high molecular weight with high yield and purity, even with reduced quantities of tissue. Moreover, the genomic DNA isolated, demonstrated to be suitable for several downstream molecular techniques, such as PCR sequencing among others.
Comparative Study of Quality Characteristics of Korean Soy Sauce Made with Soybeans Germinated Under Dark and Light Conditions
Authors: Choi Ung-Kyu , Jeong Yeon-Shin , Kwon O-Jun , Park Jong-Dae , Kim Young-Chan
Published: November 2011

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of germinating soybeans under dark and light conditions on the quality characteristics of Korean soy sauce made with germinated soybeans. The germination rate of soybeans germinated under dark conditions (GSD) was higher than that of soybeans germinated under light conditions (GSL), whereas the lengths of sprouts and relative weights of GSL did not differ from those of GSD. The L, a, b, and ΔT values of GSL were significantly lower than GSD. The color of GSD remained yellow, while GSL changed to a green color due to photosynthesis by chlorophyll. The total amino acid contents in soy sauce fermented with soybeans germinated under dark conditions (SSGD) and soy sauce fermented with soybeans germinated under light conditions (SSGL) were lower than in soy sauce fermented with non-germinated soybeans (SNGS). The levels of isoflavone content in SSGD and SSGL were significantly increased compared to the SNGS. In conclusion, the germination of soybeans under dark and light conditions is not only an increasing organoleptic preference, but also has implications for the health benefits of Korean soy sauce.
Mn(III)-Initiated Facile Oxygenation of Heterocyclic 1,3-Dicarbonyl Compounds
Authors: Rahman Md. Taifur , Haque Md. Aminul , Igarashi Hikaru , Nishino Hiroshi
Published: November 2011

The Mn(III)-initiated aerobic oxidation of heterocyclic 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, such as 4-alkyl-1,2-diphenylpyrazolidine-3,5-diones, 1,3-dialkylpyrrolidine-2,4-diones, 3-alkyl-1,5-dimethylbarbituric acids, and 3-butyl-4-hydroxy-2-quinolinone gave excellent to good yields of the corresponding hydroperoxides, which were gradually degraded by exposure to the metal initiator after the reaction to afford the corresponding alcohols. The synthesis of 30 heterocyclic 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, the corresponding hydroperoxides and the 10 alcohols, their characterization, and the limitations of the procedure are described. In addition, the mechanism of the hydroperoxidation and the redox decomposition of the hydroperoxides are discussed.
Testing the Environmental Kuznets Curve Hypothesis for Biodiversity Risk in the US: A Spatial Econometric Approach
Authors: Tevie Justin , Grimsrud Kristine M. , Berrens Robert P.
Published: November 2011

This study investigates whether the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) relationship is supported for a measure of biodiversity risk and economic development across the United States (US). Using state-level data for all 48 contiguous states, biodiversity risk is measured using a Modified Index (MODEX). This index is an adaptation of a comprehensive National Biodiversity Risk Assessment Index. The MODEX differs from other measures in that it is takes into account the impact of human activities and conservation measures. The econometric approach includes corrections for spatial autocorrelation effects, which are present in the data. Modeling estimation results do not support the EKC hypothesis for biodiversity risk in the US. This finding is robust over ordinary least squares, spatial error, and spatial lag models, where the latter is shown to be the preferred model. Results from the spatial lag regression show that a 1% increase in human population density is associated with about a 0.19% increase in biodiversity risk. Spatial dependence in this case study explains 30% of the variation, as risk in one state spills over into adjoining states. From a policy perspective, this latter result supports the need for coordinated efforts at state and federal levels to address the problem of biodiversity loss.
Antibodies against Anthrax: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications
Authors: Froude II Jeffrey W. , Thullier Philippe , Pelat Thibaut
Published: November 2011

B. anthracis is a bioweapon of primary importance and its pathogenicity depends on its lethal and edema toxins, which belong to the A-B model of bacterial toxins, and on its capsule. These toxins are secreted early in the course of the anthrax disease and for this reason antibiotics must be administered early, in addition to other limitations. Antibodies (Abs) may however neutralize those toxins and target this capsule to improve anthrax treatment, and many Abs have been developed in that perspective. These Abs act at various steps of the cell intoxication and their mechanisms of action are detailed in the present review, presented in correlation with structural and functional data. The potential for clinical application is discussed for Abs targeting each step of entry, with four of these molecules already advancing to clinical trials. Paradoxically, certain Abs may also enhance the lethal toxin activity and this aspect will also be presented. The unique paradigm of Abs neutralizing anthrax toxins thus exemplifies how they may act to neutralize A-B toxins and, more generally, be active against infectious diseases.
Introduction
Authors: Sucar L. Enrique , Morales Eduardo , Hoey Jesse
Published: November 2011

This chapter gives a general introduction to decision-theoretic models in artificial intelligence and an overview of the rest of the book. It starts by motivating the use of decision-theoretic models in artificial intelligence and discussing the challenges that arise as these techniques are applied to develop intelligent systems for complex domains. Then it introduces decision theory, including its axiomatic bases and the principle of maximum expected utility; a brief introduction to decision trees is also presented. Finally, an overview of the three main parts of the book –fundamentals, concepts and solutions– is presented.
Dynamic LIMIDS
Authors: Díez Francisco J. , van Gerven Marcel A. J.
Published: November 2011

One of the objectives of artificial intelligence is to build decision-support models for systems that evolve over time and include several types of uncertainty. Dynamic limited-memory influence diagrams (DLIMIDs) are a new type of model proposed recently for this kind of problems. DLIMIDs are similar to other models in assuming a multi-stage process that satisfies the Markov property, i.e., that the future is independent of the past given the current state. The main difference with those models is the restriction of limited memory, which means that the decision maker must make a choice based only on recent observations, but this limitation can be circumvented by the use of memory variables. We present several algorithms for evaluating DLIMIDs, show a real-world model for a medical problem, and compare DLIMIDs with related formalisms, such as LIMIDs, dynamic influence diagrams, and POMDPs.