bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes of undergraduate students towards persons with disabilities; the role of the need for social approval
Authors: Kowalska Joanna , Winnicka Justyna
Published: July 2013

The purpose of this study was a diagnosis of the attitudes of students of Warsaw universities towards people with disabilities and the variables which impacted on these attitudes. Additionally, we examined the relationship between the need for social approval and explicit attitudes towards people with disabilities. The study focused on two components of attitudes: behavioural (measured by preferable social distance - SDSB) and cognitive (tested with a semantic differential scale - SDSO). 318 students completed a survey including a demographic sheet, a social desirability scale, the SDSB and SDSO. The results indicate that students expressed positive attitudes towards people with disabilities. The impact of such variables as gender, the type of disability and the need for social approval was registered and were differentiated in regard to components of attitudes. The results are discussed with reference to earlier research and cues for further studies are suggested.
Attentional Control and Retrieval Induced Forgetting Self-regulation Perspective
Authors: Kolańczyk Alina , Reszko Marta , Mordasiewicz Paweł
Published: July 2013

Retrieval Induced Forgetting (RIF) refers to the finding that the retrieval of some items from memory (RP+) impairs the retrieval of related items (RP-). The RIF effect is indicated by a comparison of RP- with unrelated but also tobe- remembered items (NRP). Since RIF appears during intentional memorizing of words, therefore we checked whether it depends on attentional control (AC) involved in goal maintenance, and also if implicit evaluations of to-be-remembered (RP) contents moderate this process (causing e.g. inhibition). In three experiments, each including AC as the independent variable, we found AC to be related to the RIF effect. Only high but not low AC subjects showed the presence of RIF. The results of the affective priming procedure showed that implicit evaluations of NRP items moderate the relationship of high AC and the RIF effect. The explanation why temporarily devaluated NRP could enhance the RIF effect and suggestion concerning future research summarize the article.
Promoting eyewitness testimony quality: Warning vs. reinforced self-affirmation as methods of reduction of the misinformation effect
Authors: Szpitalak Malwina , Polczyk Romuald
Published: July 2013

In a typical experiment on the misinformation effect, subjects first watch some event, afterwards read a description of it which in the experimental group includes some incorrect details, and answer questions relating to the original event. Typically, subjects in the misled experimental group report more false details than those from the control group.

The main purpose of the presented study was to compare two methods of reducing the misinformation effect, namely - warning against misinformation and reinforced self-affirmation. The reinforced self-affirmation consists of two elements: the participants recall their greatest achievements of life, and are being given a positive feedback about their performance in a memory task.

The obtained results showed that the reinforced self-affirmation was more effective than warning, although the latter also caused a significant reduction of the vulnerability to misinformation.
Electrocortical Correlates of Temperament
Authors: Tatalović Vorkapić Sanja , Tadinac Meri , Lučev Ivana
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between three temperament dimensions: strength of excitation, strength of inhibition and mobility measured by Pavlov’s Temperament Survey (PTS), and amplitudes and latencies of evoked brain potentials (N1, P2, N2, P3 & SW) measured by a visual oddball paradigm in two blocks. The participants were female psychology students (N=54) with mean age of 20.

Significant positive correlations were determined between amplitudes of N1-P2-N2-P3 components and strength of excitation and mobility in the first and second block, mostly on parietal electrodes, as well as significant negative correlations of amplitudes of N1-P2-N2-P3 components and strength of inhibition. Considering measurement limitations important future study directions have been given.
Methodological considerations in studying awareness during learning: Part 1: Implicit learning
Authors: Nakamura Daisuke
Published: July 2013

Methodological problems of how awareness during learning should be measured have been extensively discussed and investigated in cognitive psychology. This review considers; 1)whether amnesics can perform implicit learning tasks at a similar level to normal controls, 2) whether differences in instructional orientations create dissociations in performance in tests of implicit and explicit knowledge, and 3) whether participants can retrospectively verbalise the learning outcomes. The paper concludes that; (1) amnesics’ implicit learning abilities differ from the normal controls, (2) instructions on implicit learning do not guarantee the occurrence of implicit learning, and (3) objective and subjective awareness measures used in the literature face inherent problems and so the awareness controversy remains unsettled.
Exploring the relationship between the body self and personality defence mechanisms in women with bulimia nervosa
Authors: Mirucka Beata
Published: July 2013

This study investigated the relationship between disorders of the body self and personality defence mechanisms of women with bulimia nervosa. It was hypothesized that women with bulimia nervosa would not form a homogeneous group in terms of the body self disorder and that the extent of this disorder would be significantly related to personality functioning in terms of the defence styles adopted. The hypothesis was investigated with the aid of two questionnaires: the Body Self Questionnaire (Mirucka, 2005) and the Defence Style Questionnaire by Andrews, Singh and Bond (1993). 36 women aged between 15 and 25 years, who fulfilled the DSM IV criteria for bulimia nervosa participated in the study. Conclusions from the study were that: (1) the body self of bulimic women is differentially disordered at three levels: profound, moderate and minimal. (2) the degree to which the body self was found to be disordered is significant in psychological terms as it is related to the defence style adopted by the bulimic personality. The profound and moderate levels of body self disorder related to immature defence styles, while minimal levels of disruption to body self were associated with neurotic and mature styles.
Apple-Tree Resistance to Abiotic Factors in Winter
Authors: Krasova Nina , Galasheva Anna , Golishkina Lubov
Published: July 2013

Data on the reaction of apple cultivars to unfavorable autumn-winter conditions were analysed and summarised. New scab resistant apple cultivars (gene Vf) obtained from the hybridisation of local adapted varieties with a donor of scab immunity also displayed hardiness to unfavourable winter conditions. As a result of artificial freezing, the cultivars resistant to spring frost (-3.5 oC) during flowering were identified. The mechanism of adaptation to unfavourable winter conditions, and the possibility of preliminary prediction of winter hardiness according to some indicators of the physiological state of tissues in wintering trees were found. In all apple cultivars, increase of the concentrations of sucrose, anthocyanin and cyanidin was noted during the autumn-winter period, but in winter-hardy cultivars this process was more intensive; the amount of cyanidin in the bark of shoots was 6-8 times higher in comparison with non-winter-hardy cultivars. Higher water loss in non-winter-hardy cultivars was observed under conditions of extreme temperatures, which can lead to significant freezing and sunburns late in winter. In winter-hardy cultivars, peroxidase activity decreased in winter, while in the non-winter-hardy cultivars it remains high, due to incomplete hardening of tissues.
Suitability of ‘Jonagold’ Apple Clones for Commercial Growing in Lithuania
Authors: Kviklys Darius , Kviklienė Nomeda , Ūselis Nobērtas
Published: July 2013

Seven apple clones of cv. ‘Jonagold’: ‘Red Jonaprince’, ‘Jonagold Boerekamp’, ‘Jonagored Supra’, ‘Jonaveld’, ‘Jonagold DeCoster’, ‘Jonagold Novajo’ and ‘Jonabel’ were tested at the Institute of Horticulture in Babtai in 2003-2011. Significant differences among cv. ‘Jonagold’ clones were recorded in yield, fruit quality parameters and winter hardiness. The highest total yield was recorded for cvs. ‘Jonagold Boerekamp’ and ‘Red Jonaprince’, the lowest for cv. ‘Jonagold Novajo’. Average fruit weight of cv. ‘Jonagold Novajo’ was significantly lower. ‘Red Jonaprince’ fruits had the best colouration. ‘Jonagored Supra’ fruits had the best appearance according to the test panel. During winter 2009-2010, 30% of ‘Red Jonaprince’ trees suffered frost damage. No losses were recorded for ‘Jonagored Supra’. During the experiment tree losses due to frost and disease damages were 25-60% and depended on the clone.
Body Fat Distribution in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Iuhas Cristian-Ioan , Costin Nicolae , Niţă Cristina , Mihu Dan
Published: July 2013

Background and Aims. Most women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) are thought to have an abdominal body fat distribution, regardless of body mass index (BMI). The objective of our research was to compare body fat distribution between PCOS cases and BMI/age matched healthy control women. Materials and Methods. We compared 102 women with PCOS and 120 healthy female patients matched for age and BMI (retrospective review of the medical records). Visceral fat area (VFA) was measured by bioelectric impedance. Results. No significant differences were noted between the PCOS group and controls regarding total cholesterol, LDLcholesterol and triglycerides levels. Mean HDL-cholesterol concentration was significantly lower in the PCOS group (p=0.03). Mean fasting serum insulin and calculated HOMA-IR were higher in the PCOS group (14.2±7.2 vs. 9.1±4.1μU/mL, p<0.001, and 3.1±1.8 vs. 2.3±1.1, p=0.01 respectively). VFA was similar in patients with PCOS and in the control group. Conclusions. Obese women with PCOS have no preponderant accumulation of visceral fat, compared with weight/age-matched controls. Our data suggest that the distribution of fat to visceral depots is unlikely to be the entire explanation for the metabolic abnormalities observed in women with PCOS.
Diabetes Mellitus, Obesity and Underlying Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease - Independent Risk Factors for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Suceveanu Andra-Iulia , Mazilu Laura , Catrinoiu Doina , Suceveanu Adrian-Paul , Voinea Felix , Parepa Irinel-Raluca
Published: July 2013

Background and Aims. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies. Obesity, together with the underlying liver steatosis, has received increased attention as a risk factor for HCC. Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is also reported to be associated with HCC. We aimed to estimate the risk of HCC in obese and diabetic patients. Material and method. We prospectively analyzed 414 obese and diabetic patients, over a period of 5 years. We evaluated all patients using screening methods such as abdominal ultrasound and serum alpha-fetoprotein every 6 month, in order to detect HCC occurrence. Kaplan-Meier analysis estimated the cumulative incidence of HCC. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis assessed the association between HCC and obesity. Results. Median follow-up was 4.3 years. 11 from 77 cirrhotic obese patients, and 18 from 150 non-cirrhotic obese patients developed HCC (p=ns). 7 from 51 patients with DM and cirrhosis, and 14 from 136 non-cirrhotic patients with DM developed HCC (p=ns). The cumulative incidence of HCC was 2.8%, respectively 2.6%, in cirrhotic patients with obesity or DM, compared with 2.2%, respectively 2.0%, in non-cirrhotic patients with obesity or DM (p=ns). Conclusion. Obesity and DM, along with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), seems to be independent risk factors for HCC occurrence.
Nutritional Deficiencies Associated to Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Zetu Cornelia , Munteanu Rubin , Parasca Raluca , Ionescu-Tîrgovişte Constantin
Published: July 2013

Obesity is an epidemic disease, increasingly addressed through surgical options for weight loss. Benefits of these surgical procedures, such as weight loss and improvement of obesity-related co-morbidities, are well established. However, postoperative complications do occur. Deficiencies in micronutrients, which include water and fat-soluble vitamins and minerals, are common after bariatric surgery. Recognition of the clinical signs and symptoms of micronutrient deficiencies is important to minimize long-term adverse effects.
Detecting Level-of-Detail Inconsistencies in Volunteered Geographic Information Data Sets
Authors: Touya Guillaume , Brando-Escobar Carmen
Published: July 2013

Whereas defining the level of detail (LoD) of authoritative data sets is possible, the opposite is true for volunteered geographic information (VGI), which is often characterized by heterogeneous LoDs. This heterogeneity is a curb for map-making, particularly when using traditional map derivation processes such as generalization. This paper proposes a method to infer the LoD of VGI features. Then, inconsistencies between features with different LoDs that get in the way of good map-making can be automatically identified. Some proposals are made to harmonize LoD heterogeneities. The inferring of LoDs is implemented, and results are presented on OpenStreetMap data.
An Information Model for Pedestrian Routing and Navigation Databases Supporting Universal Accessibility
Authors: Laakso Mari , Sarjakoski Tapani , Lehto Lassi , Sarjakoski L. Tiina
Published: July 2013

This study focuses on the information content of the geospatial databases used to guide pedestrians as well as those with disabilities. In this paper we introduce an information model for describing this content. The model covers the physical environment faced by a person moving on foot. We have used the Unified Modeling Language class diagrams to formalize the information model on a conceptual level. The features are divided into two abstract top-level classes: one allowing pedestrian access and the other hindering it. A consistent and comprehensive pedestrian network is at the core of the model. The model also covers other geographical information to increase accessibility. The aim of the created information model is to help data providers to collect and store appropriate data using the appropriate methods.
Studies on the Effect of Pellet Size on Positive Conveying in Helically Grooved Single Screw Extruders
Authors: Jia M.-Y. , Pan L. , Xue P. , Wang K.-J. , Jin X.-M.
Published: July 2013

The helical grooved barrel feed section permits, when the barrel channel aspect ratio and the barrel channel helical angle are properly designed, an operating mode where the positive conveying is prevailing. While the pellet size of materials is varied, different dimension relationships of the barrel channel depth and pellet size could induce different equivalent barrel channel aspect ratios with the transformation of solids conveying mechanisms from the positive conveying to the friction-drag conveying. Considering the effect of dimension relationships on the solids conveying mechanism, a novel pellet-size physical model was established to guide the available design of the barrel channel geometry for positive conveying. In the pellet-size model, one or two shear interfaces were identified inside the solid-plug resulting in different equivalent barrel channel aspect ratios, based on which the solids conveying mechanism on the shear interfaces was detailed by the boundary condition equations for positive conveying. Besides, the theoretical simulations are also compared with the on-line measuring experimental data. The results show that the equivalent barrel channel aspect ratio on the shear interfaces exists indeed and determines the solids conveying mechanism, which is well confirmed by the excellent consistence between the predicted and measured data.
Preparation and Characterization of PES and PA Composite Membranes for Air Separation at Low Pressures
Authors: Madaeni S. S. , Esmaeili M. , Attar Nosrati S. , Barzin J.
Published: July 2013

In this study poly(ether sulphone) (PES) asymmetric membranes and Polyamide (PA) composite membranes were used for gas separation at low pressures. The effect of PES concentration, contact time of sebacoyldichloride, addition of 1,6-hexaethylene diamine solution and PA active layer on the structures of PES support layer were studied. Changing the structure of PES membrane from channel-like to sponge form increased the selectivity in the gas separation process. However, this structural variation caused a considerable decline in gas permeability. The characteristics of top layer depend on the porosity and compactness of sub-layers structure. Active layer formation on the surface of support structure at PES concentrations of more than 25 %wt improved the oxygen selectivity considerably. The optimum conditions for preparation of PA active layer through interfacial polymerization process were elucidated in this paper. The PA composite membrane prepared at the PES concentration of 25 wt% and monomer concentration of 1 wt% provided the highest selectivity for oxygen enrichment process.
Polytetrafluoroethylene Paste Extrusion: A Fibrillation Model and Its Relation to Mechanical Properties
Authors: Ardakani H. A. , Mitsoulis E. , Hatzikiriakos S. G.
Published: July 2013

The effects of process conditions on fibrillation and mechanical properties of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) paste extrudates have been studied using capillary rheometers having barrels of different diameter and equipped with capillary dies of various designs. The tensile strength of PTFE extrudates is measured as a function of apparent shear rate (flow rate), reduction ratio (cross sectional area of barrel to that of die), contraction angle, and diameter of the barrel. To describe the effects of die design on the quality of the final product, a basic phenomenological mathematical model has been developed. The model consists of a simple equation that explains fibril formation, due to the compression of PTFE resins, plus a kinetic equation, which is coupled with the “radial-flow” hypothesis to predict the structure and the tensile strength of extrudates. The model predictions are found to be consistent with tensile strength measurements and SEM micrographs of the PTFE extrudates.
Application of the Network Simulation Method to Flat Dies with Inverted Prelands
Authors: Köpplmayr T. , Miethlinger J.
Published: July 2013

We present a systematic approach based on Kirchhoff’s laws that uses tensor algebra and analytical formulae obtained from constitutive equations for the analysis of flow resistance networks. The flow of a Carreau fluid in a flat die with inverted preland is analyzed in terms of mass flow, velocity, and residence time distributions. Viscous heating is taken into account by using an analytical model which depends on the Cameron number of the flow at different positions. Further, we report the results of a three-dimensional simulation, using the commercially available ANSYS Polyflow software, which are in good agreement with our numerical study.
Contribution of Root-Knot Nematodes to Aflatoxin Contamination in Peanut (Arachis hypogaea)
Authors: Timper P. , Wilson D. M. , Holbrook C. C.
Published: July 2013

Peanut kernels are susceptible to colonization by some species of Aspergillus which, under conditions of drought and high temperatures, can produce aflatoxins prior to harvest. The objective of this research was to determine the mechanism by which the peanut root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne arenaria) increases aflatoxin contamination in peanut. Research determined 1) the role of nematode infection of roots vs. pods in increased aflatoxin contamination and 2) whether increased aflatoxin production in nematode-infected peanut is due to a greater percentage of small or immature kernels. An additional objective was to determine whether a peanut cultivar with resistance to M. arenaria would reduce the risk of preharvest aflatoxin contamination. In the greenhouse, researchers physically separated root growth from pod set and inoculated each location with M. arenaria or a water control in a 2 × 2 factorial design with 12–15 replications. Of the six trials conducted, data indicated that pod and root infection by M. arenaria was associated with elevated aflatoxin concentrations in one and three trials, respectively. This suggests that root infection by the nematode can increase aflatoxin concentrations in the peanut kernel. Another 2 × 2 factorial experiment was conducted with two peanut genotypes (Tifguard and TifGP-2) and two nematode treatments (with and without M. arenaria) with six replications. The cultivar Tifguard is resistant to M. arenaria and TifGP-2 is susceptible. The experiment was carried out in 24 field microplots equipped with a rainout shelter. The experiment was conducted five times from 2006 to 2010. Infection of TifGP-2 by M. arenaria did not lead to greater percentages of small kernels. In only one year (2007), nematodes appeared to increase the percentage of damaged kernels, though aflatoxin concentrations were not affected by nematodes in that year. In the rainout shelter experiment, 2006 was the only year where nematode infection of peanut increased aflatoxin concentrations. In that year, there were lower aflatoxin concentrations in the nematode-resistant cultivar Tifguard than the susceptible germplasm TifGP-2 (12 vs. 136 ng/g).
Evaluation of Peanut Agrochemical Efficacy in Situations where Spray Solution Application is Delayed
Authors: Eure P.M. , Jordan D.L. , Fisher L.R. , York A.C.
Published: July 2013

The effect of delayed application of spray solutions is poorly understood with respect to efficacy of fungicides, insecticides, inoculants, and plant growth regulators commonly used in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Research was conducted in North Carolina during 2009 and 2010 to determine if tobacco thrips (Frankliniella fusca Hinds) control by acephate; early leaf spot (caused by Cercospora arachidicola Hori) and late leaf spot (caused by Cercosporidium personatum Berk. and Curt.) control by chlorothalonil, prothioconazole plus tebuconazole, pyraclostrobin, and tebuconazole; Sclerotinia blight (caused by Sclerotinia minor Jagger) control by boscalid and fluazinam; and improvement in row visibility by prohexadione calcium were affected by the time interval between solution preparation and application. Performance of the inoculant Bradyrhizobium was also compared when prepared in 25 different sources of water when application was delayed after preparation of solutions. Agrochemicals and prohexadione calcium solutions were prepared the d of application or 3, 6, and 9 d prior to application with all solutions applied on the same d. Similarly, inoculant solutions were prepared the d of application or 4 and 8 d prior to application and applied on the same d. Performance of fungicides, insecticides, inoculant, and prohexadione calcium was not reduced in most instances when left in spray solution up to 8 or 9 d. The magnitude of difference in efficacy was minor when differences were observed.
Stem Cell - The Future Little Master in Dentistry
Authors: Hasan Md Nazmul , Darendeliler Mehmet Ali
Published: July 2013

Abstract not availableDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/updcj.v2i2.15478 Update Dent. Coll. j: 2012; 2 (2): 01-02
Compressive Strength, Fluoride Release and Recharge of Giomer
Authors: Quader SM Abdul , Alam M Shamsul , Bashar AKM , Gafur Abdul , Mansur MA Al
Published: July 2013

Current restorative materials with high fluoride release generally have lower mechanical properties. Therefore they may not be as durable clinically as lower fluoride release materials, particularly in load bearing areas. The aim of the present study is to explore the fluoride release and recharging ability as well as its compressive strength of the newly developed material called Giomer. The name Giomer is a hybrid of the words Glass Ionomer and Composite. Giomer contain a revolutionary PRG (Pre Reacted Glass) filler technology. They have properties of both conventional Glass Ionomer (fluoride release and recharge) and resin Composite (excellent esthetics, easy polishability and biocompatibility). MATERIALS & METHODS: Seven disk specimens of Giomer, Compomer and Glass Ionomer restorative materials were prepared for measurement of fluoride release and recharge using Ion Chromatography (IC) anion analyzer machine. Another seven disk specimens of Giomer, Compomer and Composite restorative materials were prepared for measurement of compressive strength using Universal Testing Machine (UTM). RESULTS: The value of compressive strength of Giomer is greater than that of Composite and Compomer but the fluoride release capability of Giomer becomes low in comparison to Glass Ionomer but not significant in comparison to compomer. CONCLUSIONS: Giomer have high compressive strength (271 Mpa) and an initial fluoride (1.41 ppm) release. It also exhibit fluoride recharge capabilities. So, Giomer to be a better restorative material other than any fluoride releasing materials. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/updcj.v2i2.15533 Update Dent. Coll. j: 2012; 2 (2): 28-37
Non-surgical management of immature maxillary lateral incisor with palato-gingival groove with MTA
Authors: Wakia Tasnim , Islam Mohammad Aminul , Alam Md Shamsul
Published: July 2013

Palato-gingival groove is a developmental anomaly often affecting the maxillary lateral incisor. The aim of this presentation is to describe the clinical management of a maxillary lateral incisor tooth with a palato-gingival groove with perio-endo lesion having immature apex. Despite complex anatomy, this case was managed by using Mineral Trioxide Aggregate plug technique with as a non-surgical endodontic treatment. The tooth was functional without any complication on the basis of regular clinical and radiological evaluation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/updcj.v2i2.15534 Update Dent. Coll. j: 2012; 2 (2): 38-41
The Celebrated Monsieur Desnoyer, Part 1: 1721–1733
Authors: Goff Moira
Published: July 2013

George Desnoyer first danced in London in 1721 and 1722, and returned to pursue a successful performing career there between 1731 and 1742. He may have been born around 1700 in Hanover, for he was the son of the dancing master ‘Denoyé’ employed by Georg Ludwig Elector of Hanover (later King George I of England) from at least 1694. 1 Musicians named ‘Desnoyers’ can be found in Paris records from the 1650s. 2 The elder Desnoyer may have been related to Antoine Desnoyers, who was a member of the ‘violons de la Chambre’ at the court of Louis XIV from at least the late 1670s until about 1694. 3 He may also have been the Desnoyers who danced in the 1689 and 1690 revivals at the Paris Opéra of Lully's Atys and Cadmus et Hermione respectively. 4 Whatever his lineage, George Desnoyer was already a skilled exponent of French belle dance style and technique when he first appeared in London, at the Drury Lane Theatre, early in 1721. Desnoyer's father died on 18 April 1721, and he was presumably appointed to succeed him for he left England during the summer of 1722 to become dancing master to George I's grandson Prince Frederick, who had remained in Hanover. His appointment at the electoral court formally ended early in 1730, and the following year Desnoyer returned to London. He was billed as ‘first dancer to the King of Poland’ when he appeared at Drury Lane in late 1731, and for the next few years he divided his time between London, Dresden and Warsaw. Desnoyer's London career lasted until 1742. Over the years, he performed solos, duets and group dances as well as appearing in a variety of afterpieces, and he enjoyed notable partnerships with several leading female dancers. Although virtually all the choreographies he performed are lost, there is much other evidence to shed light on Desnoyer's dancing style and technique. I have documented the lives and careers, as dancing masters, of George Desnoyer and his son Philip elsewhere. 5 In this article I will explore and analyse George Desnoyer's repertoire during his first two periods in London, 1721–1722 and 1731–1733. In a second article, I will look at his repertoire and his dancing partnerships between 1734 and his retirement from the London stage in 1742. 6
Molecular Engineering of Therapeutic Cytokines
Authors: Vazquez-Lombardi Rodrigo , Roome Brendan , Christ Daniel
Published: July 2013

Over the past three decades, a large body of work has been directed at the development of therapeutic cytokines. Despite their central role in immune modulation, only a handful of cytokine therapeutics has achieved regulatory approval. One of the major challenges associated with the therapeutic use of cytokines relates to their short serum half-life and low bioavailability. High doses are required to overcome these problems, which often result in dose-limiting toxicities. Consequently, most cytokines require protein engineering approaches to reduce toxicity and increase half-life. For this purpose, PEGylation, fusion proteins, antibody complexes and mutagenesis have been utilized. Here, we summarize past, recent and emerging strategies in this area.
AZO Thin Films by Sol-Gel Process for Integrated Optics
Authors: Znaidi Lamia , Touam Tahar , Vrel Dominique , Souded Nacer , Yahia Sana , Brinza Ovidiu , Fischer Alexis , Boudrioua Azzedine
Published: July 2013

Undoped and aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) thin films are prepared by the sol-gel process. Zinc acetate dihydrate, ethanol, and monoethanolamine are used as precursor, solvent, and stabilizer, respectively. In the case of AZO, aluminum nitrate nonahydrate is added to the precursor solution with an atomic percentage equal to 1 and 2 at.% Al. The multi thin layers are deposited by spin-coating onto glass substrates, and are transformed into ZnO upon annealing at 550 °C. Films display a strong preferential orientation, with high values for the Texture Coefficients (TC) of the (002) direction (TC(002) ≈ 3). The structural, morphological, and optical properties of the thin films as a function of aluminum content have been investigated using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM). Waveguiding properties of the thin films have been also studied using m-lines spectroscopy. The results indicate that the films are monomodes at 632.8 nm with optical propagation optical losses estimated around 1.6 decibel per cm (dB/cm).
Assessing the Diversity and Composition of Bacterial Communities across a Wetland, Transition, Upland Gradient in Macon County Alabama
Authors: Shange Raymon , Haugabrooks Esther , Ankumah Ramble , Ibekwe Abasiofiok , Smith Ronald , Dowd Scot
Published: July 2013

Wetlands provide essential functions to the ecosphere that range from water filtration to flood control. Current methods of evaluating the quality of wetlands include assessing vegetation, soil type, and period of inundation. With recent advances in molecular and bioinformatic techniques, measurement of the structure and composition of soil bacterial communities have become an alternative to traditional methods of ecological assessment. The objective of the current study was to determine whether soil bacterial community composition and structure changed along a single transect in Macon County, AL. Proteobacteria were the most abundant phyla throughout the soils in the study (ranging from 42.1% to 49.9% of total sequences). Phyla Acidobacteria (37.4%) and Verrucomicrobia (7.0%) were highest in wetland soils, Actinobacteria (14.6%) was highest in the transition area, and Chloroflexi (1.6%) was highest in upland soils. Principle Components Analysis (relative abundance) and Principle Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) (Unifrac weighted metric) plots were generated, showing distinction amongst the ecosystem types through clustering by taxonomic abundance and Unifrac scores at 3% dissimilarity, respectively. Selected soil properties (soil organic carbon and phosphatase enzyme activity) also differed significantly in transition soil ecosystem types, while showing predominance in the wetland area. This study suggests that with further study the structure and composition of soil bacterial communities may eventually be an important indicator of ecological impact in wetland ecosystems.
Experimental Research and Control Strategy of Pumped Storage Units Dispatching in the Taiwan Power System Considering Transmission Line Limits
Authors: Kuo Ming-Tse , Lu Shiue-Der
Published: July 2013

Taiwan’s power system is isolated and not supported by other interconnected systems. Consequently, the system frequency immediately reflects changes in the system loads. Pumped storage units are crucial for controlling power frequency. These units provide main or auxiliary capacities, reducing the allocation of frequency-regulating reserve (FRR) and further reducing generation costs in system operations. Taiwan’s Longmen Nuclear Power Plant is set to be converted for commercial operations, which will significantly alter the spinning reserves in the power system. Thus, this study proposes a safe and economic pumped storage unit dispatch strategy. This strategy is used to determine the optimal FRR capacity and 1-min recovery frequency in a generator failure occurrence at the Longmen Power Plant. In addition, this study considered transmission capacity constraints and conducted power flow analysis of the power systems in Northern, Central, and Southern Taiwan. The results indicated that, in the event of a failure at Longmen Power Plant, the proposed strategy can not only recover the system frequency to an acceptable range to prevent underfrequency load-shedding, but can also mitigate transmission line overloading.
Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation of Distributed Intelligent Energy Management System for Microgrids
Authors: Oh Sang-Jin , Yoo Cheol-Hee , Chung Il-Yop , Won Dong-Jun
Published: July 2013

Microgrids are autonomous low-voltage power distribution systems that contain multiple distributed energy resources (DERs) and smart loads that can provide power system operation flexibility. To effectively control and coordinate multiple DERs and loads of microgrids, this paper proposes a distributed intelligent management system that employs a multi-agent-based control system so that delicate decision-making functions can be distributed to local intelligent agents. This paper presents the development of a hardware-in-the-loop simulation (HILS) system for distributed intelligent management system for microgrids and its promising application to an emergency demand response program. In the developed HILS system, intelligent agents are developed using microcontrollers and ZigBee wireless communication technology. Power system dynamic models are implemented in real-time simulation environments using the Opal-RT system. This paper presents key features of the data communication and management schemes based on multi-agent concepts. The performance of the developed system is tested for emergency demand response program applications.
Inland Treatment of the Brine Generated from Reverse Osmosis Advanced Membrane Wastewater Treatment Plant Using Epuvalisation System
Authors: Qurie Mohannad , Abbadi Jehad , Scrano Laura , Mecca Gennaro , Bufo Sabino , Khamis Mustafa , Karaman Rafik
Published: July 2013

The reverse osmosis (RO) brine generated from the Al-Quds University wastewater treatment plant was treated using an epuvalisation system. The advanced integrated wastewater treatment plant included an activated sludge unit, two consecutive ultrafiltration (UF) membrane filters (20 kD and 100 kD cutoffs) followed by an activated carbon filter and a reverse osmosis membrane. The epuvalisation system consisted of salt tolerant plants grown in hydroponic channels under continuous water flowing in a closed loop system, and placed in a greenhouse at Al-Quds University. Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) plants were selected, and underwent two consecutive hydroponic flowing stages using different brine-concentrations: an adaptation stage, in which a 1:1 mixture of brine and fresh water was used; followed by a functioning stage, with 100% brine. A control treatment using fresh water was included as well. The experiment started in April and ended in June (2012). At the end of the experiment, analysis of the effluent brine showed a remarkable decrease of electroconductivity (EC), PO43−, chemical oxygen demand (COD) and K+ with a reduction of 60%, 74%, 70%, and 60%, respectively, as compared to the influent. The effluent of the control treatment showed 50%, 63%, 46%, and 90% reduction for the same parameters as compared to the influent. Plant growth parameters (plant height, fresh and dry weight) showed no significant difference between fresh water and brine treatments. Obtained results suggest that the epuvalisation system is a promising technique for inland brine treatment with added benefits. The increasing of channel number or closed loop time is estimated for enhancing the treatment process and increasing the nutrient uptake. Nevertheless, the epuvalisation technique is considered to be simple, efficient and low cost for inland RO brine treatment.
Employing Acoustic Emission for Monitoring Oil Film Regimes
Authors: Hamel Mhmod , Addali Abdulmajid , Mba David
Published: July 2013

The major purpose of a gear lubricant is to provide adequate oil film thickness to reduce and prevent gear tooth surface failures. Real time monitoring for gear failures is important in order to predict and prevent unexpected failures which would have a negative impact on the efficiency, performance and safety of the gearbox. This paper presents experimental results on the influence of specific oil film thickness on Acoustic Emission (AE) activity for operational helical gears. Variation in film thickness during operations was achieved by spraying liquid nitrogen onto the rotating gear wheel. The experimental results demonstrated a clear relationship between the root mean square (r.m.s) value of the AE signal and the specific film thickness. The findings demonstrate the potential of Acoustic Emission technology to quantify lubrication regimes on operational gears.
Two New Phenolic Glycosides from Gnaphalium affine D. Don and Their Anti-Complementary Activity
Authors: Li Junli , Huang Doudou , Chen Wansheng , Xi Zhongxin , Chen Cheng , Huang Guanghui , Sun Lianna
Published: July 2013

Two new phenolic glycosides, named gnaphaffine A and B (compounds 1 and 2), were isolated from Gnaphalium affine. together with six known compounds, including caffeic acid (3), everlastoside L (4), isorhamnetin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (5), quercetin- 3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (6), scutellarein-7-O-β-D-glucoside (7) and api-genin-7-O-β-D- glucopyranoside (8). Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, including ESI-MS and 2D NMR spectroscopy (HMQC and HMBC). All compounds were evaluated for their anti-complementary activity on the classical pathway of the complement system in vitro.
In-silico Leishmania Target Selectivity of Antiparasitic Terpenoids
Authors: Ogungbe Ifedayo , Setzer William
Published: July 2013

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), like leishmaniasis, are major causes of mortality in resource-limited countries. The mortality associated with these diseases is largely due to fragile healthcare systems, lack of access to medicines, and resistance by the parasites to the few available drugs. Many antiparasitic plant-derived isoprenoids have been reported, and many of them have good in vitro activity against various forms of Leishmania spp. In this work, potential Leishmania biochemical targets of antiparasitic isoprenoids were studied in silico. Antiparasitic monoterpenoids selectively docked to L. infantum nicotinamidase, L. major uridine diphosphate-glucose pyrophosphorylase and methionyl t-RNA synthetase. The two protein targets selectively targeted by germacranolide sesquiterpenoids were L. major methionyl t-RNA synthetase and dihydroorotate dehydrogenase. Diterpenoids generally favored docking to L. mexicana glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. Limonoids also showed some selectivity for L. mexicana glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and L. major dihydroorotate dehydrogenase while withanolides docked more selectively with L. major uridine diphosphate-glucose pyrophosphorylase. The selectivity of the different classes of antiparasitic compounds for the protein targets considered in this work can be explored in fragment- and/or structure-based drug design towards the development of leads for new antileishmanial drugs.
A Robust Approach for a Filter-Based Monocular Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) System
Authors: Munguía Rodrigo , Castillo-Toledo Bernardino , Grau Antoni
Published: July 2013

Simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) is an important problem to solve in robotics theory in order to build truly autonomous mobile robots. This work presents a novel method for implementing a SLAM system based on a single camera sensor. The SLAM with a single camera, or monocular SLAM, is probably one of the most complex SLAM variants. In this case, a single camera, which is freely moving through its environment, represents the sole sensor input to the system. The sensors have a large impact on the algorithm used for SLAM. Cameras are used more frequently, because they provide a lot of information and are well adapted for embedded systems: they are light, cheap and power-saving. Nevertheless, and unlike range sensors, which provide range and angular information, a camera is a projective sensor providing only angular measurements of image features. Therefore, depth information (range) cannot be obtained in a single step. In this case, special techniques for feature system-initialization are needed in order to enable the use of angular sensors (as cameras) in SLAM systems. The main contribution of this work is to present a novel and robust scheme for incorporating and measuring visual features in filtering-based monocular SLAM systems. The proposed method is based in a two-step technique, which is intended to exploit all the information available in angular measurements. Unlike previous schemes, the values of parameters used by the initialization technique are derived directly from the sensor characteristics, thus simplifying the tuning of the system. The experimental results show that the proposed method surpasses the performance of previous schemes.
Shared Urban Greywater Recycling Systems: Water Resource Savings and Economic Investment
Authors: Zadeh Sara , Hunt Dexter , Lombardi D. , Rogers Christopher
Published: July 2013

The water industry is becoming increasingly aware of the risks associated with urban supplies not meeting demands by 2050. Greywater (GW) recycling for non-potable uses (e.g., urinal and toilet flushing) provides an urban water management strategy to help alleviate this risk by reducing main water demands. This paper proposes an innovative cross connected system that collects GW from residential buildings and recycles it for toilet/urinal flushing in both residential and office buildings. The capital cost (CAPEX), operational cost (OPEX) and water saving potential are calculated for individual and shared residential and office buildings in an urban mixed-use regeneration area in the UK, assuming two different treatment processes; a membrane bioreactor (MBR) and a vertical flow constructed wetland (VFCW). The Net Present Value (NPV) method was used to compare the financial performance of each considered scenario, from where it was found that a shared GW recycling system (MBR) was the most economically viable option. The sensitivity of this financial model was assessed, considering four parameters (i.e., water supply and sewerage charges, discount rate(s), service life and improved technological efficiency, e.g., low flush toilets, low shower heads, etc.), from where it was found that shared GW systems performed best in the long-term.
Anionic cascade reactions. One-pot assembly of (Z)-chloro-exo-methylenetetrahydrofurans from β-hydroxyketones
Authors: Markó István E , Schevenels Florian T
Published: July 2013

The assembly of (Z)-chloro-exo-methylenetetrahydrofurans by an original and connective anionic cascade sequence is reported. Base-catalysed condensation of β-hydroxyketones with 1,1-dichloroethylene generates, in moderate to good yields, the corresponding (Z)-chloro-exo-methylenetetrahydrofurans. Acidic treatment of this motif leads to several unexpected dimers, possessing unique structural features.
Investigation of Viral Escape Mutations within HCV P7 during Treatment with Amantadine in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Vermehren Annika , Welsch Christoph , Elsler Ulrike , Vermehren Johannes , Herrmann Eva , Sarrazin Christoph , Von Wagner Michael , Susser Simone , Hofmann Wolf Peter , Kronenberger Bernd , Zeuzem Stefan , Mihm Ulrike
Published: July 2013

Background

Combination of several direct-acting antiviral agents will be necessary to overcome viral resistance in interferon-free treatment regimens for chronic HCV infection. HCV p7 inhibitors may be part of such combination regimens. Understanding why amantadine, despite showing inhibition of HCV p7 in vitro, appears ineffective in clinical trials, may help in the design of novel HCV p7 inhibitors. So far it is unknown whether viral escape mutations within HCV p7 explain the ineffectiveness of amantadine in vivo.

Methods

Pretreatment HCV p7 was directly sequenced in 157 consecutive patients with chronic HCV genotype 1b infection who had been treated with amantadine/placebo plus pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN)-α2a/ribavirin within a multicentre clinical trial. Triple therapy was preceded by 2 weeks of amantadine/placebo monotherapy. In nine patients, clonal sequencing was performed at baseline and after 2 weeks of amantadine/placebo monotherapy.

Results

Changes of the relative frequency of amino acid substitutions by ≥20% between pretreatment and week 2 of monotherapy were considered potential resistance mutations if they were only found in patients receiving amantadine but not in patients receiving placebo. Seven substitutions fulfilling these criteria were identified in the subset of patients with clonal sequencing. However, none of these substitutions were associated with treatment outcome in the complete cohort of patients receiving triple therapy with amantadine.

Conclusions

Potential viral escape mutations within HCV p7 do not seem to play a major role for treatment response to antiviral therapy with amantadine and PEG-IFN-α2a/ribavirin in patients with chronic HCV genotype 1b infection.
Symbolique de la haute mer et exacerbation identitaire. De l'invention d'une tradition à ses usages politiques
Authors: Leloup Yves
Published: July 2013

En 1975, une équipe de piroguiers tahitiens revient victorieuse d’une course hauturière organisée à Hawaii. En raison, d’une médiatisation sans précédent, la course de haute mer – épreuve sportive jusque-là inconnue en Polynésie française – acquiert en quelques semaines une popularité singulière. Rapidement, acteurs politiques, instances territoriales et nationales s’intéressent alors à l’évolution des représentations populaires de la pirogue, dont la pratique sportive s’avère être un point d’ancrage matériel majeur pour retisser une identité culturelle ma’ohi . Une tradition sportive est bientôt réinventée au travers de l’éclosion pléthorique de « courses marathon » de haute mer. Support de visées tantôt identitaires, électoralistes où autonomistes, l’image fédératrice du sport pirogue devient enjeu d’influences et de pouvoir.