bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Adaptive Hyperbox Algorithm for High-Dimensional Discrete Optimization via Simulation Problems
Authors: Xu Jie , Nelson Barry L. , Hong L. Jeff
Published: October 2011

We propose an adaptive hyperbox algorithm (AHA), which is an instance of a locally convergent, random search algorithm for solving discrete optimization via simulation problems. Compared to the COMPASS algorithm, AHA is more efficient in high-dimensional problems. By analyzing models of the behavior of COMPASS and AHA, we show why COMPASS slows down significantly as dimension increases, whereas AHA is less affected. Both AHA and COMPASS can be used as the local search algorithm within the Industrial Strength COMPASS framework, which consists of a global search phase, a local search phase, and a final cleanup phase. We compare the performance of AHA to COMPASS within the framework of Industrial Strength COMPASS and as stand-alone algorithms. Numerical experiments demonstrate that AHA scales up well in high-dimensional problems and has similar performance to COMPASS in low-dimensional problems.
Optimization of runner sizes and process conditions considering both part quality and manufacturing cost in injecting molding
Authors: Zhai Ming , Shen Changyu , Liu Chuntai , Chen Jingbo
Published: October 2011

Part quality and manufacturing cost are the key concerns of injection molding designers. The desired design can produce high quality parts with minimum manufacturing cost. The factors affecting part quality and manufacturing cost are discussed and a multi-objective optimization methodology presented to optimize runner sizes and process conditions simultaneously to achieve high quality parts with low manufacturing cost. This methodology optimizes a population of solutions and promotes individuals within the population according to Pareto-optimal criteria. A set of Pareto solutions was obtained, whereby each solution was both better and worse in at least one objective compared to another individual of the population. A weighted sum approach was employed to select the appropriate design parameters from the Pareto set.
IGF1 and IGFBP3 in acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Ahasic Amy M , Zhai Rihong , Su Li , Zhao Yang , Aronis Konstantinos N , Thompson B Taylor , Mantzoros Christos S , Christiani David C
Published: October 2011

Objective

IGF1 and its most abundant binding protein, IGF-binding protein 3 (IGFBP3), have been implicated in fibrotic lung diseases and persistent acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to profibrogenic and antiapoptotic activity. Whether circulating levels of IGF1 and IGFBP3 are altered in ARDS and whether they predict progression of and survival from ARDS remains unknown. This study aims to characterize the circulating levels of IGF1 and IGFBP3 in patients at risk for ARDS in relation to i) development of ARDS and ii) mortality among ARDS cases.

Design

In this case–cohort study, consecutive patients with risk factors for ARDS admitted to the intensive care unit were enrolled and followed prospectively for the development of ARDS. Cases were followed for all-cause mortality through day 60. Of the 2397 patients enrolled in the parent study, plasma samples were available in 531 (22%) patients (356 controls and 175 cases) from early in presentation. Total plasma IGF1 and IGFBP3 levels were measured.

Results

After adjusting for relevant clinical covariates including severity of illness, IGF1 and IGFBP3 levels were significantly lower in ARDS cases than in controls (odds ratio (OR), 0.58;P=0.006; OR, 0.57;P=0.0015 respectively). Among the ARDS cases, IGF1 and IGFBP3 levels were significantly lower in the 78 (45%) non-survivors (hazard ratio (HR), 0.70;P=0.024; HR, 0.69;P=0.021 respectively).

Conclusions

Lower circulating levels of IGF1 and IGFBP3 were independently associated with ARDS case status. Furthermore, lower levels were associated with mortality among the ARDS cases. These data support the role of the IGF pathway in ARDS.
Therapeutic management of patients with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Khan Mohid S , Caplin Martyn E
Published: October 2011

Patients with neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are best managed in a specialist centre as part of a multidisciplinary team comprising gastroenterologists, oncologists, endocrinologists, gastrointestinal and hepatopancreaticobiliary surgeons, pathologists, nuclear medicine physicians and technicians, radiologists, specialist nurses, pharmacists, biochemists and dieticians. This should ideally be led by a clinician with experience and interest in NETs. Although the number of medical treatments and clinical trials has increased in the decade, there is still a lack of prospective randomised trials; thus, management is mainly based on limited often single-centre studies, although there are now formal guidelines based on consensus expert opinion. We have outlined the current optimal management of patients with NETs. We have reviewed therapeutic options including surgery, somatostatin analogues and other biotherapies and peptide receptor-targeted therapy. We have discussed the challenge in managing hepatic metastases including hepatic artery embolisation, ablation and orthotopic liver transplant. In addition, we have briefly reviewed the emerging therapies such as the mammalian target of rapamycin and angiogenic inhibitors and the newer somatostatin analogues.
Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Adolescents Born Weighing <2000 Grams
Authors: Pinto-Martin Jennifer A. , Levy Susan E. , Feldman Judith F. , Lorenz John M. , Paneth Nigel , Whitaker Agnes H.
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To estimate the diagnostic prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in a low birth weight (LBW) cohort.

METHODS:

Participants belonged to a regional birth cohort of infants (N = 1105) born weighing <2000 g between October 1, 1984, and July 3, 1989, and followed up by periodic assessments to 21 years of age. At 16 years (n = 623), adolescents were screened for ASD using a wide net (previous professional diagnosis of an ASD or a score above a liberal cutoff on the Social Communication Questionnaire or the Autism Spectrum Symptoms Questionnaire). At 21 years (n = 189), 60% of screen positives and 24% of screen negatives were assessed for diagnoses of ASD by the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule or the Autism Diagnostic Interview–Revised.

RESULTS:

Samples retained at ages 16 and 21 years were representative of samples assessed at earlier ages except for lower levels of social risk. Of positive screens, 11 of 70 had ASD; of negative screens, 3 of 119 had ASD. The fractions of the 2 screening groups with ASD (14.3% in screen-positives and 2.5% in screen negatives) were weighted by fractions of screen-positives and screen-negatives among the adolescents (18.8% and 81.2%, respectively). This calculation produced an estimated prevalence rate of ASD in the entire cohort of 5% (31 of 623).

CONCLUSIONS:

The diagnostic prevalence of ASD in this LBW preterm cohort was higher than that reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for 8-year-olds in the general US population in 2006.
Hypotonic Versus Isotonic Maintenance Fluids After Surgery for Children: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Choong Karen , Arora Steve , Cheng Ji , Farrokhyar Forough , Reddy Desigen , Thabane Lehana , Walton J. Mark
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE:

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the risk of hyponatremia following administration of a isotonic (0.9% saline) compared to a hypotonic (0.45% saline) parenteral maintenance solution (PMS) for 48 hours to postoperative pediatric patients.

METHODS:

Surgical patients 6 months to 16 years of age with an expected postoperative stay of >24 hours were eligible. Patients with an uncorrected baseline plasma sodium level abnormality, hemodynamic instability, chronic diuretic use, previous enrollment, and those for whom either hypotonic PMS or isotonic PMS was considered contraindicated or necessary, were excluded. A fully blinded randomized controlled trial was performed. The primary outcome was acute hyponatremia. Secondary outcomes included severe hyponatremia, hypernatremia, adverse events attributable to acute plasma sodium level changes, and antidiuretic hormone levels.

RESULTS:

A total of 258 patients were enrolled and assigned randomly to receive hypotonic PMS (N = 130) or isotonic PMS (N = 128). Baseline characteristics were similar for the 2 groups. Hypotonic PMS significantly increased the risk of hyponatremia, compared with isotonic PMS (40.8% vs 22.7%; relative risk: 1.82 [95% confidence interval: 1.21–2.74]; P = .004). Admission to the pediatric critical care unit was not an independent risk factor for the development of hyponatremia. Isotonic PMS did not increase the risk of hypernatremia (relative risk: 1.30 [95% confidence interval: 0.30–5.59]; P = .722). Antidiuretic hormone levels and adverse events were not significantly different between the groups.

CONCLUSION:

Isotonic PMS is significantly safer than hypotonic PMS in protecting against acute postoperative hyponatremia in children.
Importance of Parent Talk on the Development of Preterm Infant Vocalizations
Authors: Caskey Melinda , Stephens Bonnie , Tucker Richard , Vohr Betty
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the sound environment of preterm infants cared for in the NICU and to test the hypothesis that infants exposed to more adult language will make more vocalizations.

METHODS:

This was a prospective cohort study of 36 infants who had a birth weight of ≤1250 g. Sixteen-hour recordings of the infant sound environment were made in the NICU from a digital language processor at 32 and 36 weeks' postmenstrual age. Adult word counts, infant vocalizations, and conversational turns were analyzed.

RESULTS:

Infant vocalizations are present as early as 32 weeks. Both adult word counts per hour and infant vocalizations per hour increase significantly between 32 and 36 weeks. Infant exposure to language as a percentage of time was small but increased significantly. When a parent was present, infants had significantly more conversational turns per hour than when a parent was not present at both 32 and 36 weeks (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Preterm infants begin to make vocalizations at least 8 weeks before their projected due date and significantly increase their number of vocalizations over time. Although infant exposure to language increased over time, adult language accounted for only a small percentage of the sounds to which an infant is exposed in the NICU. Exposure to parental talk was a significantly stronger predictor of infant vocalizations at 32 weeks and conversational turns at 32 and 36 weeks than language from other adults. These findings highlight the powerful impact that parent talk has on the appearance and increment of vocalizations in preterm infants in the NICU.
Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Series Initiation and Completion, 2008–2009
Authors: Dorell Christina G. , Yankey David , Santibanez Tammy A. , Markowitz Lauri E.
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE:

The goal was to describe factors associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination series initiation (≥1 dose) and completion (≥3 doses) and parents' intent to have their daughters vaccinated.

METHODS:

Data from the 2008 and 2009 National Immunization Survey-Teen were analyzed to estimate HPV vaccination coverage among girls 13 to 17 years of age (N = 18 228) and to examine associations of vaccination coverage with demographic characteristics.

RESULTS:

Overall, 40.5% of girls had received ≥1 HPV vaccine dose, and 53.3% of those girls completed the series. Factors independently associated with vaccination initiation included older age, having an 11- to 12-year preventive visit, insurance status, mother's age and marital status, not receiving all vaccines at public facilities, and provider recommendation, which was the factor most strongly associated with initiation (prevalence ratio: 2.6 [95% confidence interval: 2.4–2.9]). Compared with white girls (60.4%), black (46.0%) and Hispanic (40.3%) girls were less likely to complete the series. Lack of knowledge of the vaccine (19.4%), vaccination was not needed (18.8%), the daughter was not sexually active (18.3%), and a provider did not recommend (13.1%) were the most common reasons for parents' nonintent to have their daughters vaccinated.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although HPV vaccine coverage rates are increasing, they are still below target levels. Recommendations by providers to adolescent patients and parents likely would improve vaccine uptake. Parental education regarding disease risks and benefits of HPV vaccination before exposure is needed to promote vaccine uptake.
Pressure Dependence on the Electrical Properties of SiO2 Gate Oxide Formed by Inductive Coupled Plasma Oxidation
Authors: Kim Beom-jong , Kim Dong-chan , Kim. Yoon-jae , Lim Han-jin , Kim Ju-eun , Yi Wook-yeol , Kim Dae-hyun , Kim Bong-hyun , Kim Young-wan , Kang Sung-ho , Kim Yung-seok , Lee Woo-jun , Nam Seok-woo , Chung Chil-hee
Published: October 2011

We investigated the pressure dependence of the inductive coupled plasma (ICP) oxidation on the electrical characteristics of the thin oxide films. Activation energies and electron temperatures with different pressures were estimated. To demonstrate the pressure effect on the plasma oxide quality, simple N type metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS) transistors were fabricated and investigated in a few electrical properties. At higher pressure than 200mTorr, plasma oxide has a slightly higher on-current and a lower interfacial trap density. The on-current gain seems to be related to the field mobility increase and the lower defective interface to the electron temperature during oxidation.
Low-damage Preparation of SiO2 Dielectric Thin Film by the Photo-assisted Oxidation Processing
Authors: Kodzasa Takehito , Uemura Sei , Suemori Kouji , Yoshida Manabu , Hoshino Satoshi , Takada Noriyuki , Kamata Toshihide
Published: October 2011

We have already reported that low-temperature (about 170 °C) preparation technique of silicon dioxide (SiO2) dielectric thin film that has high resistivity and extremely smooth surface by the photo oxidation process. In this paper, we have developed a low-damage preparation technique to fabricate a SiO2 thin film by the photo-assisted low temperature oxidation process in order to apply this process to the flexible electronics using for convenient plastic films. We have reported that the SiO2 dielectric thin film with a high insulation performance can be prepared by the low temperature processing below 100°C by improving the pre-processing of the photo oxidation of thin film.
Low Temperature Zinc Indium Oxide Backplane Development for Flexible OLED Displays in a Manufacturing Pilot Line Environment
Authors: Marrs Michael A. , Venugopal Sameer M. , Moyer Curtis D. , Bawolek Edward J. , Bottesch Dirk , O’Brien Barry P. , Cordova Rita J. , Trujillo Jovan , Bell Cynthia S. , Loy Douglas E. , Raupp Gregory B. , Allee David R.
Published: October 2011

A low temperature amorphous zinc indium oxide (ZIO) thin film transistor (TFT) backplane technology for high information content flexible organic light emitting diode (OLED) displays has been developed. We have fabricated 4.1-in. diagonal OLED backplanes on the Flexible Display Center’s six-inch wafer-scale pilot line using ZIO as the active layer. The ZIO based TFTs exhibited an effective saturation mobility of 18.6 cm2/V-s and a threshold voltage shift of 2.2 Volts or less under positive and negative gate bias DC stress for 10000 seconds. We report on the critical steps in the evolution of the backplane process: the qualification of the low temperature (200°C) ZIO process, the stability of the devices under forward and reverse bias stress, the transfer of the process to flexible plastic substrates, and the fabrication of white organic light emitting diode (OLED) displays.
Synthesis of Graphene-ZnO Heterogeneous Nanostructures by Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Lin Jian , Penchev Miroslav , Wang Guoping , Paul Rajat K , Zhong Jiebin , Jing Xiaoye , Ozkan Mihrimah , Ozkan Cengiz S.
Published: October 2011

In this work, we report the synthesis and characterization of three dimensional heterostructures graphene nanostructures (HGN) comprising continuous large area graphene layers and ZnO nanostructures, fabricated via chemical vapor deposition. Characterization of large area HGN demonstrates that it consists of 1-5 layers of graphene, and exhibits high optical transmittance and enhanced electrical conductivity. Electron microscopy investigation of the three dimensional heterostructures shows that the morphology of ZnO nanostructures is highly dependent on the growth temperature. It is observed that ordered crystalline ZnO nanostructures are preferably grown along the <0001> direction. Ultraviolet spectroscopy indicates that the CVD grown HGN layers has excellent optical properties. A combination of electrical and optical properties of graphene and ZnO building blocks in ZnO based HGN provides unique characteristics for opportunities in future optoelectronic devices.
Study of scalable IBS nanopatterning mechanisms for III-V semiconductors using in-situ surface characterization
Authors: Allain Jean Paul , El-Atwani Osman , Cimaroli Alex , Rokusek Daniel L. , Ortoleva Sami , Suslova Anastassiya
Published: October 2011

Ion-beam sputtering (IBS) has been studied as a means for scalable, mask-less nanopatterning of surfaces. Patterning at the nanoscale has been achieved for numerous types of materials including: semiconductors, metals and insulators. Although much work has been focused on tailoring nanopatterning by systematic ion-beam parameter manipulation, limited work has addressed elucidating on the underlying mechanisms for self-organization of multi-component surfaces. In particular there has been little attention to correlate the surface chemistry variation during ion irradiation with the evolution of surface morphology and nanoscale self-organization. Moreover the role of surface impurities on patterning is not well known and characterization during the time-scale of modification remains challenging. This work summarizes an in-situ approach to characterize the evolution of surface chemistry during irradiation and its correlation to surface nanopatterning for a variety of multi-components surfaces. The work highlights the importance and role of surface impurities in nanopatterning of a surface during low-energy ion irradiation. In particular, it shows the importance of irradiation-driven mechanisms in GaSb(100) nanopatterning by low-energy ions and how the study of these systems can be impacted by oxide formation.
BYZO Nanopancakes in HTS YBa2Cu3O7-δ Films: Effect on Critical Current Density and Nonlinear Microwave Response
Authors: Flis Victor S. , Svetchnikov Vassily L. , Kalenyuk Oleksa A. , Kasatkin Alexander L. , Moskaliuk Viacheslav O. , Rebikov Andrey I. , Tretiatchenko Constantin G. , Pan Volodymyr M.
Published: October 2011

We have studied nanostructure, electric transport and microwave properties of HTS YBa2Cu3O7-δ films prepared by PLD on LaAlO3 single crystal substrates using targets doped with BaZrO3. Two essentially different types of nanoparticles are revealed by HREM: “nanopancakes” and “nanorods”. Tiny nanopancakes are 1-4 nm in ab-plane and only few atomic layers thick. Nanopancakes are surrounded with deformed area and numerous dislocations. Such nanoparticles seem to be responsible for jc enhancement. Nanopancakes evolve to much wider and longer nanorods at higher substrate temperatures and/or slower deposition. There are no dislocations around nanorods. Elastic strains are avoided due to slight inclination of the c-axis. Dislocations around nanopancakes are suggested to be additional flux pinning centers and retard thermally activated relaxation of the dislocation nanostructure.
Effect of different levels of water deficit on rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) crop
Authors: Bilibio Carolina , Carvalho Jacinto de Assunção , Hensel Oliver , Richter Uwe
Published: October 2011

Effects of different levels of water deficit applied during rapeseed crop development were assessed in a trial with metallic pots in greenhouse at the Department of Agricultural Engineering of Kassel University, Witzenhausen, Germany. A randomized block design was used with one cultivar (Ability Summer Rape) and three levels of water deficit (0, 30, and 60% of evapotranspiration) in three treatments and 20 replicates. Irrigation management was carried out through daily water balance, where ET = I - D; ET: evapotranspiration; I: irrigation; and D: drainage. The following evaluations were carried out weekly: stem diameter (mm); plant height (cm); number of leaves; number of branches and number of pods. At the end of the experiment, assessed total green matter (g plant-1), total dry matter (g plant-1), grain yield (g plant-1), grain protein content (%) and grain oil content (%) were also assessed. Data were submitted to variance analysis and the effect of the treatments was assessed by regression analysis. Results showed significant differences between the treatments in all analysed variables except for plant height and grain protein content, by test F at 5% probability. Factor of response ky, indicator of crop sensitivity to water deficit, was lower than one for all assessed variables. Grain yield showed the highest sensitivity to water deficit.
Normal Language: Cognitive and Linguistic Models
Authors: Radanovic Marcia , Lessa Mansur Leticia
Published: October 2011

Language is the “most human” of all cognitive abilities. Hence, understanding how our brains process language has intrigued neuroscientists since the first description of an aphasic patient by Paul Broca at the end of the eighteenth century. Much of our knowledge about language processing derives from the observation of signs and symptoms caused by brain injury, but normal language is also a topic of investigation among researchers, from Psycholinguistics to Computational Sciences. However, the exact nature of linguistic processing is yet to be fully understood. Oral language comprehension seems to be based on the auditory discrimination of word subunits, which vary depending on the language considered: stress units (English), syllables (French), mora (Japanese), and so on. These subunits must then be grouped and a selection mechanism has to discriminate among similar words to avoid ambiguities. Grammatical rules contribute to organize words (in their morphosyntactic aspects), and, finally, context and prosody give their contribution so that the listener is able to understand the content of discourse, as in a conversation. Language production relies on the phylogenetic development of a specific supra-laryngeal articulation mechanism under neocortical control, and also of a social competence now described as Theory of Mind (ToM). Language production starts with the mental generation of a message to be conveyed; this message has to be translated into grammatically encoded words. Grammatical encoding includes lemma selection, morphosyntactic composition, morphophonological and phonetic encoding, in a complex process at the end of which the message (words) is uttered by the speaker.
Language Alterations in Focal Lesions: Current Concepts in Aphasia
Authors: Radanovic Marcia , Lessa Mansur Leticia
Published: October 2011

Aphasia can be defined as an acquired deficit in language processing due to dysfunction in specific areas of the brain. The classic aphasias (Broca's, Wernicke's and Global) are representative of impairment in the very epicenters of language areas, thus inducing signs and symptoms that affect all levels of linguistic processing: phonological, syntactical, lexical, and semantic. However, there is a group of aphasias in which the lesion site spares the classic language areas, thus inducing more subtle signs and symptoms, and leading to a combination of linguistic symptoms mixed with those arising from other cognitive functions also affected by the same lesion. That is the case with the so called “transcortical aphasias” and “conduction aphasia”. Transcortical aphasias are classified as motor, sensory, and mixed. In transcortical motor aphasia (TCMA), the medial and the dorsolateral frontal lobes are compromised, interrupting the connections between these two systems and language areas; TCMA patients have impairment performance on tasks demanding speech generation (diminished fluency, impairment in narrative, and in the production of grammatically complex sentences), and a reduction in the motivation to engage in communication. In transcortical sensory aphasia (TCSA) there is a disorder in semantic processing, manifesting as comprehension and naming impairment, which indicates a disconnection between posterior language areas and semantic memory. In mixed transcortical aphasia (MTA) there is a combination of signs and symptoms of both TCMA and TCSA in varying degrees. Conduction aphasia, in which the core symptom is repetition deficit, represents a primary failure of the phonological loop.
Interface between Language and other Cognitive Functions
Authors: Radanovic Marcia , Lessa Mansur Leticia
Published: October 2011

Cognitive functions are intermingled and are known to depend upon each other for optimal efficiency. Linguistic performance depends on a series of cognitive domains known as “language supportive functions”. Among these are included attention, working memory, executive functions and visuospatial abilities. Attention plays a major role in several steps of linguistic processing, ranging from lexical selection to the comprehension of complex material (such as sentences and texts) and also writing. The phonological loop (the verbal component of working memory), which accounts for the transient manipulation of verbal material, is critical for adequate syntactic comprehension and vocabulary acquisition. Working memory deficits can interfere with the ability to comprehend texts, as well as discourse and conversation. Executive dysfunction interferes with the subject's ability to access semantic and lexical representations. Executive functions are also involved in sentence and discourse production, as they are necessary for planning how to express an idea. Visuospatial perception abilities may interfere with naming tasks, when subjects are unable to name an object because they cannot recognize it. Finally, it has been demonstrated that aphasia itself may hinder the subject's performance in several cognitive tasks, such as color-picture matching, picture ordering, calculation and drawing from memory. Moreover, the interface between language and other cognitive functions becomes evident in neuropsychological testing, as most tests require input and reasoning for verbally presented material (starting with test instructions), and frequently the output must also be verbal (oral or written), even when non-language functions are being tested.
Language Alterations in Subcortical Lesions: New Concepts
Authors: Radanovic Marcia , Lessa Mansur Leticia
Published: October 2011

The role of subcortical structures in language processing is a topic of intense debate in the literature. Language alterations resulting from subcortical damage, such as the basal ganglia and thalamus do not produce classical aphasia syndromes as those encountered in cortical lesions. Basal ganglia lesions (caudate nucleus, putamen, globus pallidus) produce a complex and varied symptomatology regarding language manifestations, being the more consistent an alteration in lexical selection processes. More recent theories implicate the striatum in sequential and computational aspects of language processing, combinatorial rule applications and procedural learning (which are related to morphology and syntax), as well as stuttering. Thalamic aphasias present a more homogeneous pattern, where anomia and semantic paraphasias predominate, pointing to the role of the thalamus in mechanisms of cortical engagement and semantic verification. There has been increasing evidence of the participation of the cerebellum in language processing. Among the language deficits found after cerebellar lesions are delay in language acquisition, deficits in speech initiation, and mutism. Other previously reported language alterations include deficits in speech production, such as short responses, difficulties in initiating a conversation, long latencies for answers, and word finding difficulties.
Induction and Inhibition of Drug Metabolizing Enzymes
Authors: Tihanyi Karoly
Published: October 2011

The induction of enzymes is an adaptive tool in maintaining homeostasis. However, in drug
development enzyme induction is an unwanted trait of NCEs. Enzyme inducers may alter the biotransformation
of xenobiotics and endogenous compounds. The consequence of faster conversion is a therapeutic insufficiency
or a too-high exposure to an active drug formed from its prodrug. An increased rate of reactive metabolite
production originating from lower bioavailability and higher dosage may have toxicological significance. The
sustained higher clearance of endogenous compounds, such as hormones, may have endocrinologic effects.
Nuclear receptor activation by xenobiotics, which precedes downstream events, mediates highly pleiotropic
effects, many of them unrelated to drug metabolism. The altered expression of various cell cycle regulating
factors through nuclear receptors may have a considerable influence on the cell cycle, growth and differentiation.
Apart from the potentially harmful effects of enzyme induction, increased metabolic enzyme activity is beneficial
when exposure to harmful xenobiotics is reduced due to their higher clearance.

The inhibition of metabolic enzymes is a frequent underlying cause of drug-drug interactions. Assessment of the
inhibitory potential of NCEs is a focus of ADME property screening in drug discovery. The prediction of in vivo
drug-drug interactions based on in vitro-generated enzyme kinetic constants is a challenging task. As the
inhibition of metabolic enzymes cannot be completely eliminated, low victim potential and low inhibitory
propensities are of equal importance in selecting drug candidates.
Transporterization: A Tool for Drug Delivery to the Central Nervous System
Authors: Orgovan Gabor , Noszal Bela
Published: October 2011

Drug delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) has long been recognised as an enormous task, due
to the physiological gate-keeping function of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). With the development of molecular
biology, the function and properties of the BBB are better understood. In this review, transporterization, a
promising method for drug delivery by endogenous proteins, is discussed, and a survey of the reported results is
presented.
A brief review of some application driven fast algorithms for elliptic partial differential equations
Authors: Daripa Prabir
Published: October 2011

Some application driven fast algorithms developed by the author and his collaborators for elliptic partial differential equations are briefly reviewed here. Subsequent use of the ideas behind development of these algorithms for further development of other algorithms some of which are currently in progress is briefly mentioned. Serial and parallel implementation of these algorithms and their applications to some pure and applied problems are also briefly reviewed.
Pneumatic pulsator design as an example of numerical simulations in engineering applications
Authors: Wołosz Krzysztof , Wernik Jacek
Published: October 2011

The paper presents the part of the investigation that has been carried out in order to develop the pneumatic pulsator which is to be employed as an unblocking device at lose material silo outlets. The part of numerical simulation is reported. The fluid dynamics issues have been outlined which are present during supersonic airflow thought the head of the pulsator. These issues describe the pneumatic impact phenomenon onto the loose material bed present in the silo to which walls the pulsator is assembled. The investigation presented in the paper are industrial applicable and the result is the working prototype of the industrial pneumatic pulsator. The numerical simulation has led to change the piston shape which is moving inside the head of the pulsator, and therefore, to reduce the pressure losses during the airflow. A stress analysis of the pulsator controller body has been carried out while the numerical simulation investigation part of the whole project. The analysis has made possible the change of the controller body material from cast iron to aluminium alloy.
Evaluation of stress-strain behavior of surface treated steels by X-ray diffraction
Authors: Coelho Luis , Batista A. , Nobre J. , Marques M.
Published: October 2011

X-ray diffraction assisted four-point bending method (XRDABM) enables to analyze the evolution of surface stress with the strain during bending of specimens. This experimental methodology was used to characterize the stress-strain behavior of two plasma nitriding steels, DIN 40 Cr Mn Mo 7 and DIN 32 Cr Mo V 13, with gradients of mechanical properties across the surface layers, allowing the characterization of the in-depth evolution of the local yield strength in the nitrided layer. The results show a significantly increase of the yield strength of the nitride layers and a good agreement between the in-depth evolution of the yield strength and the XRD peak breadth for the two nitrided steels.
Using Semiotics in Consumer Research to Understand Everyday Phenomena
Authors: Ogilvie Madeleine , Mizerski Katherine
Published: October 2011

This paper introduces a new method of studying consumer phenomena by combining two different semiotic philosophies. Using cosmetics as the vehicle to demonstrate the technique, this study explores the semiotics of visible face makeup in Australian Caucasian women. It aims to understand why women wear makeup and how they experience the signs of make-up and appearance in everyday life. The study comprises two phases. The initial phase adopts a communication model extended from Saussurean semiotics, while the second employs a triadic semiotic philosophy as proposed by Charles Sanders Peirce. Results indicate that, by combining the two semiotic perspectives within one study, the researcher is able to gain greater insights about the consumption behaviours of individuals from a communication as well as an experiential perspective. For marketers, this greater understanding of how the consumer interacts and experiences brands and products allows for more strategic and focused communication with their target market. In addition, this approach provides useful information about symbolic consumption, so trends and new directions in cultural paradigms can also be predicted. An example of this is shown in Figure 2.
Assessing the Effects of Teachers’ Reading Knowledge on Students’ Achievement Using Multilevel Propensity Score Stratification
Authors: Kelcey Ben
Published: October 2011

This study investigated the relationship of teachers’ reading knowledge with students’ reading achievement using a direct teacher knowledge assessment rather than indirect proxies (e.g., certification). To address the inequitable distribution of teachers’ knowledge resulting from differences in teachers’ backgrounds and the disparities in how schools attract and cultivate knowledge, the study developed multilevel propensity score methods to identify comparable teachers on the basis of both teacher and school backgrounds. Results suggest that schools are complexly associated with differences in teachers’ knowledge and that comparisons which ignore the relevance of schools may be misleading. By comparing teachers with similar personal and school backgrounds, results show measured knowledge is significantly associated with students’ achievement in reading comprehension but not word analysis. The findings support policies which leverage school capacities to develop the specialized knowledge needed for teaching reading.
Involvement of Type IV Pili in Pathogenicity of Plant Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Burdman Saul , Bahar Ofir , Parker Jennifer K. , De La Fuente Leonardo
Published: October 2011

Type IV pili (T4P) are hair-like appendages found on the surface of a wide range of bacteria belonging to the β-, γ-, and δ-Proteobacteria, Cyanobacteria and Firmicutes. They constitute an efficient device for a particular type of bacterial surface motility, named twitching, and are involved in several other bacterial activities and functions, including surface adherence, colonization, biofilm formation, genetic material uptake and virulence. Tens of genes are involved in T4P synthesis and regulation, with the majority of them being generally named pil/fim genes. Despite the multiple functionality of T4P and their well-established role in pathogenicity of animal pathogenic bacteria, relatively little attention has been given to the role of T4P in plant pathogenic bacteria. Only in recent years studies have begun to examine with more attention the relevance of these surface appendages for virulence of plant bacterial pathogens. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge about T4P genetic machinery and its role in the interactions between phytopathogenic bacteria and their plant hosts.
Malignant Catarrhal Fever: Understanding Molecular Diagnostics in Context of Epidemiology
Authors: Li Hong , Cunha Cristina W. , Taus Naomi S.
Published: October 2011

Malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) is a frequently fatal disease, primarily of ruminants, caused by a group of gammaherpesviruses. Due to complexities of pathogenesis and epidemiology in various species, which are either clinically-susceptible or reservoir hosts, veterinary clinicians face significant challenges in laboratory diagnostics. The recent development of specific assays for viral DNA and antibodies has expanded and improved the inventory of laboratory tests and opened new opportunities for use of MCF diagnostics. Issues related to understanding and implementing appropriate assays for specific diagnostic needs must be addressed in order to take advantage of molecular diagnostics in the laboratory.
Metal-Induced Oxidative Stress and Plant Mitochondria
Authors: Keunen Els , Remans Tony , Bohler Sacha , Vangronsveld Jaco , Cuypers Ann
Published: October 2011

A general status of oxidative stress in plants caused by exposure to elevated metal concentrations in the environment coincides with a constraint on mitochondrial electron transport, which enhances ROS accumulation at the mitochondrial level. As mitochondria are suggested to be involved in redox signaling under environmental stress conditions, mitochondrial ROS can initiate a signaling cascade mediating the overall stress response, i.e., damage versus adaptation. This review highlights our current understanding of metal-induced responses in plants, with focus on the production and detoxification of mitochondrial ROS. In addition, the potential involvement of retrograde signaling in these processes will be discussed.
The Origin of Tc Enhancement in Heterostructure Cuprate Superconductors
Authors: Bergman Doron L. , Pereg-Barnea Tamar
Published: October 2011

Recent experiments on heterostructures composed of two or more films of cuprate superconductors of different oxygen doping levels have shown a remarkable Tc enhancement (up to 50%) relative to single compound films. We provide a simple explanation of the enhancement which arises naturally from a collection of experimental works. We show that the enhancement could be caused by a structural change in the lattice, namely an increase in the distance of the apical oxygen from the copper-oxygen plane. This increase modifies the effective off-site interaction in the plane which in turn enhances the d-wave superconductivity order parameter. To illustrate this point we study the extended Hubbard model using the fluctuation exchange approximation.
Bioactive Cembranoids from the Soft Coral Sinularia crassa
Authors: Chao Chih-Hua , Chou Kuei-Ju , Huang Chiung-Yao , Wen Zhi-Hong , Hsu Chi-Hsin , Wu Yang-Chang , Dai Chang-Feng , Sheu Jyh-Horng
Published: October 2011

Eight new cembranoids, crassarines A–H (1–8) were isolated from the Formosan soft coral Sinularia crassa. Compounds 1–3 represent the rare cembranoids with a 1,12-oxa-bridged tetrahydrofuran ring, while 4 and 5 are the firstly discovered 1,11-oxa-bridged tetrahydropyranocembranoids. The absolute configuration of 6 was determined using the Mosher’s method. Compounds 6 and 8 were found to significantly inhibit the expression of both pro-inflammatory iNOS and COX-2 proteins at 10 µM, respectively, while compounds 4–8 were found to be non-cytotoxic toward the selected human liver cancer cells.
Induction of Cancer Cell Death by Isoflavone: The Role of Multiple Signaling Pathways
Authors: Li Yiwei , Kong Dejuan , Bao Bin , Ahmad Aamir , Sarkar Fazlul H.
Published: October 2011

Soy isoflavones have been documented as dietary nutrients broadly classified as “natural agents” which plays important roles in reducing the incidence of hormone-related cancers in Asian countries, and have shown inhibitory effects on cancer development and progression in vitro and in vivo, suggesting the cancer preventive or therapeutic activity of soy isoflavones against cancers. Emerging experimental evidence shows that isoflavones could induce cancer cell death by regulating multiple cellular signaling pathways including Akt, NF-κB, MAPK, Wnt, androgen receptor (AR), p53 and Notch signaling, all of which have been found to be deregulated in cancer cells. Therefore, homeostatic regulation of these important cellular signaling pathways by isoflavones could be useful for the activation of cell death signaling, which could result in the induction of apoptosis of both pre-cancerous and/or cancerous cells without affecting normal cells. In this article, we have attempted to summarize the current state-of-our-knowledge regarding the induction of cancer cell death pathways by isoflavones, which is believed to be mediated through the regulation of multiple cellular signaling pathways. The knowledge gained from this article will provide a comprehensive view on the molecular mechanism(s) by which soy isoflavones may exert their effects on the prevention of tumor progression and/or treatment of human malignancies, which would also aid in stimulating further in-depth mechanistic research and foster the initiation of novel clinical trials.
Charge transport in a zinc–porphyrin single-molecule junction
Authors: Perrin Mickael L , Martin Christian A , Prins Ferry , Shaikh Ahson J , Eelkema Rienk , van Esch Jan H , van Ruitenbeek Jan M , van der Zant Herre S J , Dulić Diana
Published: October 2011

We have investigated charge transport in ZnTPPdT–Pyr (TPPdT: 5,15-di(p-thiolphenyl)-10,20-di(p-tolyl)porphyrin) molecular junctions using the lithographic mechanically controllable break-junction (MCBJ) technique at room temperature and cryogenic temperature (6 K). We combined low-bias statistical measurements with spectroscopy of the molecular levels in the form of I(V) characteristics. This combination allows us to characterize the transport in a molecular junction in detail. This complex molecule can form different junction configurations, having an observable effect on the trace histograms and the current–voltage (I(V)) measurements. Both methods show that multiple, stable single-molecule junction configurations can be obtained by modulating the interelectrode distance. In addition we demonstrate that different ZnTPPdT–Pyr junction configurations can lead to completely different spectroscopic features with the same conductance values. We show that statistical low-bias conductance measurements should be interpreted with care, and that the combination with I(V) spectroscopy represents an essential tool for a more detailed characterization of the charge transport in a single molecule.
La représentativité des armées et ses enjeux
Authors: Boëne Bernard
Published: October 2011

Résumé L’interrogation sur la représentativité des organisations publiques par rapport à diverses mesures de la population nationale est d’origine anglo-saxonne. Le présent article s’attache à situer les causes et raisons qui pourraient conférer à une telle problématique, appliquée aux armées, substance et force dans le contexte français, comparé autant que de besoin aux cas américain et britannique. Il passe succinctement en revue la littérature pertinente, et précise les deux interprétations, issues des variétés classique et tardive de la modernité, que peut recevoir le concept. Ayant évoqué les mesures qui leur sont associées et les sources de problèmes liées à leur coexistence en tension, il examine, sur la base d’études des années 2000, les aspects (recommandés par les comparaisons anglo-saxonnes) qui semblent le mieux se prêter à une hypothétique montée en puissance de cette problématique en France : la composition sociale des armées, les femmes militaires, les minorités visibles. La réponse est prudente et nuancée : malgré d’indéniables tendances en ce sens, selon les deux logiques (mais avec une domination de la vision citoyenne sur la logique identitaire), nombre de facteurs, notamment l’absence de problèmes insurmontables depuis la professionnalisation intégrale, la forte adhésion des militaires aux valeurs institutionnelles et un manque d’intérêt pour les armées de la part des activistes extérieurs, ont jusqu’ici inhibé préoccupations et controverses de ce genre. L’auteur n’exclut cependant pas pour l’avenir des inflexions liées à la baisse programmée des effectifs et à une possible contagion à partir d’autres secteurs de la société française (médias, conseils d’administration des grandes entreprises, élus et cadres des partis, grandes écoles et classes préparatoires) où la question de la représentativité est déjà posée.
La gestion des émotions dans les opérations en faveur de la paix
Authors: Weibull Louise
Published: October 2011

Résumé Cet article aborde les diverses facettes de la gestion des émotions et de ses exigences au travers d’une étude qualitative portant sur les troupes suédoises déployées dans le cadre d’opérations en faveur de la paix, pour l’essentiel au Kosovo et au Libéria. Il s’éloigne des traditions de recherche établies en sociologie des émotions. L’analyse des données recueillies s’y réfère en effet à la typologie élaborée par Bolton (2005) à propos des émotions au travail. Cette typologie offre un cadre pluridimensionnel mettant en évidence la façon dont les règles de gestion du sentiment qui émanent de l’organisation, de la profession et de la société influent sur la motivation, l’identité professionnelle, l’efficacité et la manière de servir. L’étude valide une double hypothèse, la typologie de Bolton révèle certains aspects jusque-là restés dans l’ombre des contraintes qui pèsent en la matière sur les acteurs militaires des opérations en faveur de la paix ; les exigences de la gestion émotionnelle sont plus aiguës dans ce cadre d’activité que dans ceux dont a traité jusqu’ici la littérature.
The Nursing Role in Reporting Elder Abuse: Specific Examples and Interventions
Authors: Ziminski Carolyn E. , Phillips Linda R.
Published: October 2011

Elder abuse is a serious national problem with potential for significant physical, emotional, and financial harm. In some situations, elder abuse may lead to death. Nurses are mandated reporters for suspected elder abuse to help prevent and curtail these serious outcomes and thus are responsible for recognizing the types of elder abuse and ways it can manifest. However, the variety of settings, perpetrators, and types of elder abuse may make it difficult for nurses to recognize when elder abuse is present and to understand the proper course of action. In addition, it is necessary for nurses to be aware that elder abuse is not just a public problem but can occur in clinical settings and everyday practice. The purpose of this article is to provide several brief clinical scenarios that exemplify specific aspects of potential elder abuse and to identify appropriate nursing interventions.