bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Substituted 3,4‐Dialkyl‐2,6‐Diaryl‐Piperidin‐4‐ol Derivatives and Their Conformational Study
Authors: Maruthavanan T. , Venkatesan P.
Published: March 2012

The synthesis of series of 3,4‐dialkyl‐2,6‐diaryl‐piperidin‐4‐ol derivatives (7-12) by reduction of cis‐3‐alkyl‐2,6‐diarylpiperidin‐4‐one (1-6) using Grignard reagent has been reported. The synthesized heterocycles have been characterized on basis of spectroscopic data and their conformation has also been discussed.
[Retracted] Improvement of Landfill Leachate Biodegradability with Ultrasonic Process
Authors: Amirhossein Mahvi , Aliakbar Roodbari , Ramin Nabizadeh Nodehi , Simin Naseri , Mohammadhadii Dehghani , Mahmood Alimohammadi
Published: March 2012

Leachate from mature landfills is typically characterized by high ammonium (NH4+) content, low biodegradability (low BOD5/COD ratio) and high fraction of refractory and large organic molecules such as humic and fulvic acids. Mature leachate effluents are known to contain recalcitrant and/or non‐biodegradable organic substances and biological processes are not efficient in these cases. A promising alternative to complete oxidation of biorecalcitrant leachate is the use of ultrasonic process as pre‐treatment to convert initially biorecalcitrant compounds to more readily biodegradable intermediates, followed by biological oxidation of these intermediates to biomass and water. The objectives of this study are to investigate the effect of son catalysts process on biodegradability improvement. Results showed that when applied as relatively brief pre‐treatment systems, the sonocatalysis processes induce several modifications of the matrix, which results in significant enhancement of its biodegradability. For this reason, the integrated chemical–biological systems proposed here represent a suitable solution for the treatment of landfill leachate samples with an efficient remediation of the relevant parameters (COD, TOC).
Dual Roles ofMETCAMin the Progression of Different Cancers
Authors: Wu Guang-Jer
Published: March 2012

METCAM, an integral membrane cell adhesion molecule (CAM) in theIg-like gene superfamily, is capable of performing typical functions ofCAMs, such as mediating cell-cell and cell-extracellular interactions, crosstalk with intracellular signaling pathways, and modulating social behaviors of cells.METCAMis expressed in about nine normal cells/tissues. Aberrant expression ofMETCAMhas been associated with the progression of several epithelial tumors. Furtherin vitroandin vivostudies show thatMETCAMplays a dual role in the progression of different tumors. It can promote the malignant progression of several tumors. On the other hand, it can suppress the malignant progression of other tumors. We suggest that the role ofMETCAMin the progression of different cancer types may be modulated by different intrinsic factors present in different cancer cells and also in different stromal microenvironment. Many possible mechanisms mediated by thisCAMduring early tumor development and metastasis are suggested.
An Efficient Synthesis of Thiazolo and Thiadiazolo Quinoxaline Derivatives in Ionic Liquid
Authors: Prasanna B. , Srinivas B. , Jagannadham Y. , Rao Sumangala
Published: March 2012

A series of 3‐substitutedphenyl‐1‐thia‐tetrazopentaleno[1,2‐b] naphthalene 4(a-d) and 2‐substitutedphenyl‐1‐thia‐pentazopentaleno[1,2‐b] naphthalene 5(a-d) were synthesized via., the reaction of 2‐aminothiazoles 2(a-d) and 2‐aminothiadiazoles 3(a-d) with 2,3‐dichloro quinoxaline 1 in ionic liquid without using any catalyst. This protocol has the advantages of easier workup, milder reaction conditions, high yields, and environmentally benign procedure over traditional methods. The synthesized compounds 4(a-d) and 5(a-d) tested for their anti‐fungal activity and these compounds were characterized by IR, NMR and Mass spectral analysis.
Study of Activated Carbons by Pyrolysis of Mangifera Indica Seed (Mango) in Presence of Sodium and Potassium Hydroxide
Authors: Moreno-Piraján J. C. , Giraldo L.
Published: March 2012

Activated carbons (ACs) were prepared by pyrolysis of seeds mango in presence of sodium and potassium hydroxide (chemical activities). Seeds mango from Colombian Mango cultives were impregnated with aqueous solutions of NaOH and KOH following a variant of the incipient wetness method. Different concentrations were used to produce impregnation ratios of 3:1 (weight terms). Activation was carried out under argon flow by heating to 823 K with 1 h soaking time. The porous texture of the obtained ACs was characterized by physical adsorptions of N2 at 77 K and CO2 at 273 K. The impregnation ration and hydroxide type had a strong influence on the pore structure of these ACs, which could be easily controlled by simply varying the proportion of the hydroxides used in the activation. Thus, the development of porosity for precursors with low structural order (high reactivity) is better with NaOH than KOH, whereas the opposite is observed for the highly ordered ones. Variable adsorption capacities and porosity distributions can be achieved depending on the activating agent selected. In general, KOH produces activated carbons with narrower micropore distributions than those prepared by NaOH.
Synchronization and Pinning Control in Complex Networks with Interval Time‐Varying Delay
Authors: Jiang Hai-Feng , Li Tao
Published: March 2012

The problems on synchronization and pinning control for complex dynamical
networks with interval time‐varying delay are investigated and two less conservative criteria are established based on reciprocal convex technique. Pinning control strategies are designed to make the complex
networks synchronized. Moreover, the problem of designing controllers can be converted into solving a
series of NMIs (nonlinear matrix inequalities) and LMIs (linear matrix inequalities), which reduces the
computation complexity when comparing with those present results. Finally, numerical simulations can
verify the effectiveness of the derived methods.
Kinetics and Mechanism of Oxidation of Diethyl Ether by Chloramine‐T in Acidic Medium
Authors: Hassan Y. I. , Saeed N. H. M.
Published: March 2012

The kinetics of oxidation of diethyl ether (DE) with sodium N‐chloro‐p‐toluenesulphonamide (CAT) in hydrochloric acid solution has been studied at (313°K).The reaction rate show a first order dependence on [CAT] and fractional order dependence on each [DE] and [H+] .The variation of ionic strength of the medium has no significant effect on the reaction rate , addition of p‐toluenesulphonamide (p‐TSA) affects the reaction rate marginally the rate increased with decreasing dielectric constant of the medium , the stochiometry of the reaction was found to be 1:2 and oxidation products were identified , A Michaelis – Menten type mechanism has been suggested to explain the results.The equilibrium and the decomposition constants of CAT – diethyl ether complex have been evaluated. Thermodynamic parameters were computed by studying reaction at temperatures range ( 308 – 323°K) for the rate limiting step and for the observed first order constants by the linear Arrhenius plot. The mechanism proposed and the derived rate law are consistent with observed kinetics.
Mode-Stirred Chamber Sample Selection Technique Applied to Antenna Correlation Coefficient
Authors: Hallbjörner Paul , Sánchez-Heredia Juan D. , Martínez-González Antonio M.
Published: March 2012

Mode-stirred chambers provide an excellent tool for antenna characterization. Recent research has focused on making the mode-stirred chamber technique more versatile. One result of these efforts is the sample selection technique, by which a subset of data with specific properties is extracted from a measured set of raw data. This paper presents how to apply the sample selection technique to measurements of the correlation coefficient in dual antenna measurements, for example, for diversity or MIMO applications. Theoretical background and useful mathematical relations are presented. The application is verified through measurements.
Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Surgery in Patients with Benign Adnexal Disease: A Comparative Study
Authors: Bedaiwy Mohamed A. , Starks David , Hurd William , Escobar Pedro F.
Published: March 2012

Background: Laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) is becoming increasingly popular in different disciplines. Evidence is scarce about its utility in gynecologic surgery. Aim: To compare our initial experience using LESS for benign adnexal disease to traditional laparoscopy. Methods: Since November 2008, we have performed LESS in 28 patients diagnosed with benign adnexal disease (group I). Patients with adnexal masses and a body mass index <35 were selected. An age-matched control group of patients with similar diagnoses who underwent traditional operative laparoscopy was included (n = 50; group II). Results: Both groups were comparable with regard to age, body mass index, preoperative diagnosis, indication of surgery and history of previous abdominal surgery. The operative blood loss ranged from minimal to <50 ml for both groups. The mean ± SD duration of surgery in group I (45 ± 19.5 min) was comparable to that of group II (46.4 ± 18.3 min). The duration of hospital stay was <24 h in both groups. Minimal use of postoperative narcotics was required in study subjects and no intraoperative complications occurred. Conclusions: LESS for benign adnexal disease is feasible in patients with or without previous surgery and is comparable to traditional laparoscopic surgery. Additional investigation is needed to evaluate the safety, cost-effectiveness and long-term outcomes of this new approach.
IL-33 Independently Induces Eosinophilic Pericarditis and Cardiac Dilation
Authors: Abston Eric D. , Barin Jobert G. , Cihakova Daniela , Bucek Adriana , Coronado Michael J. , Brandt Jessica E. , Bedja Djahida , Kim Joseph B. , Georgakopoulos Dimitrios , Gabrielson Kathleen L. , Mitzner Wayne , Fairweather DeLisa
Published: March 2012

Background—

IL-33 through its receptor ST2 protects the heart from myocardial infarct and hypertrophy in animal models but, paradoxically, increases autoimmune disease. In this study, we examined the effect of IL-33 or ST2 administration on autoimmune heart disease.

Methods and Results—

We used pressure-volume relationships and isoproterenol challenge to assess the effect of recombinant (r) IL-33 or rST2 (eg, soluble ST2) administration on the development of autoimmune coxsackievirus B3 myocarditis and dilated cardiomyopathy in male BALB/c mice. The rIL-33 treatment significantly increased acute perimyocarditis (
P
=0.006) and eosinophilia (
P
=1.3×10
−5
), impaired cardiac function (maximum ventricular power,
P
=0.0002), and increased ventricular dilation (end-diastolic volume,
P
=0.01). The rST2 treatment prevented eosinophilia and improved heart function compared with rIL-33 treatment (ejection fraction,
P
=0.009). Neither treatment altered viral replication. The rIL-33 treatment increased IL-4, IL-33, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels in the heart during acute myocarditis. To determine whether IL-33 altered cardiac function on its own, we administered rIL-33 to undiseased mice and found that rIL-33 induced eosinophilic pericarditis and adversely affected heart function. We used cytokine knockout mice to determine that this effect was due to IL-33-mediated signaling but not to IL-1β or IL-6.

Conclusions—

We show for the first time to our knowledge that IL-33 induces eosinophilic pericarditis, whereas soluble ST2 prevents eosinophilia and improves systolic function, and that IL-33 independently adversely affects heart function through the IL-33 receptor.
Ideal Cardiovascular Health in Childhood and Cardiometabolic Outcomes in Adulthood
Authors: Laitinen Tomi T. , Pahkala Katja , Magnussen Costan G. , Viikari Jorma S.A. , Oikonen Mervi , Taittonen Leena , Mikkilä Vera , Jokinen Eero , Hutri-Kähönen Nina , Laitinen Tomi , Kähönen Mika , Lehtimäki Terho , Raitakari Olli T. , Juonala Markus
Published: March 2012

Background—

The American Heart Association (AHA) defined a new concept, cardiovascular health, and determined metrics needed to monitor it over time as part of its 2020 Impact Goal definition. Ideal cardiovascular health is defined by the presence of both ideal health behaviors and ideal health factors. The applicability of this concept to a cohort of children and its relationship with cardiometabolic outcomes in adulthood has not been reported.

Methods and Results—

The sample comprised 856 participants aged 12 to 18 years (mean age 15.0 years) from the Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study cohort. Participants were followed up for 21 years since baseline (1986) and had data available concerning health factors and behaviors in childhood and cardiometabolic outcomes in adulthood (2007). The number of ideal cardiovascular health metrics present in childhood was associated with reduced risk of hypertension (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] 0.66 [0.52–0.85],
P
<0.001), metabolic syndrome (0.66 [0.52–0.77],
P
<0.001), high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (0.66 [0.52–0.85],
P
=0.001), and high-risk carotid artery intima-media thickness (0.75 [0.60–0.94],
P
=0.01) in adulthood. All analyses were age and sex adjusted, and the results were not altered after additional adjustment with socioeconomic status.

Conclusions—

The number of ideal cardiovascular health metrics present in childhood predicts subsequent cardiometabolic health in adulthood. Our findings suggest that pursuit of ideal cardiovascular health in childhood is important to prevent cardiometabolic outcomes in adulthood.
Mechanisms Involved in the Amplification of the 11-yr Solar Cycle Signal in the Tropical Pacific Ocean
Authors: Misios Stergios , Schmidt Hauke
Published: March 2012

It is debated whether the response of the tropical Pacific Ocean to the 11-yr solar cycle forcing resembles a La Niña– or El Niño–like signal. To address this issue, ensemble simulations employing an atmospheric general circulation model with and without ocean coupling are conducted. The coupled simulations show no evidence for a La Niña–like cooling in solar maxima. Instead, the tropical sea surface temperature rises almost in phase with the 11-yr solar cycle. A basinwide warming of about 0.1 K is simulated in the tropical Pacific, whereas the warming in the tropical Indian and Atlantic Oceans is weaker. In the western Pacific, the region of deep convection shifts to the east, thus reducing the surface easterlies. This shift is independent of the ocean coupling because deep convection moves to the east in the uncoupled simulations too. The reduced surface easterlies cool the subsurface but warm the surface due to the reduction of heat transport divergence. The latter mechanism operates together with water vapor feedback, resulting in a stronger tropical Pacific warming relative to the warming over the tropical Indian and Atlantic Oceans. These results suggest that the atmospheric response to the 11-yr solar cycle drives the tropical Pacific response, which is amplified by atmosphere–ocean feedbacks operating on decadal time scales. Based on the coupled simulations, it is concluded that the tropical Pacific Ocean should warm when the sun is more active.
Large-Scale Atmospheric Circulation Favoring Deep- and Intermediate-Water Formation in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Papadopoulos Vassilis P. , Josey Simon A. , Bartzokas Aristides , Somot Samuel , Ruiz Simon , Drakopoulou Paraskevi
Published: March 2012

Atmospheric circulation patterns that are conducive to extreme ocean heat loss are investigated at four sites of special interest in the Mediterranean Sea. The Gulf of Lions, the South Adriatic Sea, the Cretan Sea, and the Levantine Sea are areas where anomalously high winter heat loss may lead to deep- or intermediate-water formation. At each of the above sites, the atmospheric circulation during such events is derived by averaging the sea level pressure (SLP) fields during the lower decile of the wintertime series of the net heat exchange. A relatively simple SLP pattern dominated by an anticyclone over northwestern Europe with a weaker cyclone to the southeast is found to be associated with strong heat loss in the selected sites with minor variations in pattern structure depending on the site. The SLP composite pattern reflects the combined effect of different atmospheric modes of variability and the authors consider the impacts on heat loss of a number of these modes (North Atlantic Oscillation, east Atlantic pattern, east Atlantic–west Russia pattern, and Scandinavian pattern), together with the North Sea–Caspian pattern and the Mediterranean index. The extremes in heat loss are strongly connected with the intensity and the positions of the poles of these patterns that modulate, through the necessary SLP gradient and associated northerlies, the transfer of cold and dry air over the areas of dense-water formation. Analysis of air–sea temperature difference, specific humidity, and evaporation anomalies indicates that the extremes of the net heat fluxes are primarily due to the latent and sensible heat flux components.
Observations of Ice Crystal Habits with a Scanning Polarimetric W-Band Radar at Slant Linear Depolarization Ratio Mode
Authors: Matrosov Sergey Y. , Mace Gerald G. , Marchand Roger , Shupe Matthew D. , Hallar Anna G. , McCubbin Ian B.
Published: March 2012

Scanning polarimetric W-band radar data were evaluated for the purpose of identifying predominant ice hydrometeor habits. Radar and accompanying cloud microphysical measurements were conducted during the Storm Peak Laboratory Cloud Property Validation Experiment held in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, during the winter season of 2010/11. The observed ice hydrometeor habits ranged from pristine and rimed dendrites/stellars to aggregates, irregulars, graupel, columns, plates, and particle mixtures. The slant 45° linear depolarization ratio (SLDR) trends as a function of the radar elevation angle are indicative of the predominant hydrometeor habit/shape. For planar particles, SLDR values increase from values close to the radar polarization cross coupling of about −21.8 dB at zenith viewing to maximum values at slant viewing. These maximum values depend on predominant aspect ratio and bulk density of hydrometeors and also show some sensitivity to particle characteristic size. The highest observed SLDRs were around −8 dB for pristine dendrites. Unlike planar-type hydrometeors, columnar-type particles did not exhibit pronounced depolarization trends as a function of viewing direction. A difference in measured SLDR values between zenith and slant viewing can be used to infer predominant aspect ratios of planar hydrometeors if an assumption about their bulk density is made. For columnar hydrometeors, SLDR offsets from the cross-coupling value are indicative of aspect ratios. Experimental data were analyzed for a number of events with prevalence of planar-type hydrometeors and also for observations when columnar particles were the dominant species. A relatively simple spheroidal model and accompanying T-matrix calculations were able to approximate most radar depolarization changes with viewing angle observed for different hydrometeor types.
Assessing affect after mathematical problem solving tasks
Authors: Chamberlin Scott A. , Powers Robert A.
Published: March 2012

The focus of the article is the validation of an instrument to assess gifted students’ affect after mathematical problem solving tasks. Participants were 225 students identified by their district as gifted in grades four to six. The Chamberlin Affective Instrument for Mathematical Problem Solving was used to assess feelings, emotions, and dispositions after students solved model-eliciting activities in groups of three. Through the use of principal component analysis, it was determined that three factors should be retained. The instrument holds promise because it may be used to assess affect, which has implications for identification and curricular adjustments to optimize affect.
The association of music preferences and depressive symptoms in high school students: A community-based study from Istanbul
Authors: Ekinci Ozalp , Bez Yasin , Sabuncuoglu Osman , Berkem Meral , Akin Elif , Imren Sebla Gökçe
Published: March 2012

We investigated the association of music preferences with depressive symptoms among high school students in Istanbul; 10th-, 11th- and 12th-grade students ( N = 1226) were chosen for the study. The Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI) and a detailed, semi-structured, self-report inquiry assessing music preferences and various psychosocial variables were administered to the students. Adolescents reporting heavy metal music and arabesque music in their playlists had significantly higher CDI total scores compared to adolescents who did not report these genres in their playlists. The percentage of students with problematic parent relations was highest for those with preferences for heavy metal music. Alcohol use was highest among students with preferences for dance/hip-hop music, followed by those with preferences for heavy metal. Negative thoughts and feelings when listening to music were related to higher CDI scores regardless of the favourite music genre. Future studies are needed to clarify the relationship between music preferences and specific psychopathologies in adolescents.
Geography and abstraction
Authors: McCormack Derek
Published: March 2012

A critique of abstraction has become one of the most important reference points for contemporary human geography. The terms of this critique have, however, been limited by the tendency to oppose the abstract to the lived. This paper argues that abstraction can be affirmed as a necessary element of understandings of lived worlds in the making. Doing this requires revisiting the relation between abstraction and two matters of disciplinary concern: experience and materiality. These matters of concern are drawn together via one technology of abstraction, the diagram, before an affirmative critique of abstraction for geographical thinking is outlined in concluding.
Greenhouse gas emissions of different waste treatment options for sector-specific commercial and industrial waste in Germany
Authors: Helftewes Markus , Flamme Sabine , Nelles Michael
Published: March 2012

This article investigates greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from commercial and industrial (C&I) waste treatment considering five sector-specific waste compositions and four different treatment scenarios in Germany. Results show that the highest share of CO2-equivalent emissions can be avoided in each of the analysed industrial sectors if solid recovered fuel (SRF) is produced for co-incineration in cement kilns. Across all industries, emissions of approximately 680 kg CO2-eq. Mg−1 C&I waste can be avoided on average under this scenario. The combustion of C&I waste in waste incineration plants without any previous mechanical treatment generates the lowest potential to avoid GHG emissions with a value of approximately 50 kg CO2-eq. Mg−1 C&I waste on average in all industries. If recyclables are sorted, this can save emissions of approximately 280 kg CO2-eq. Mg−1 C&I waste while the treatment in SRF power plants amounts to savings of approximately 210 kg CO2-eq. Mg−1 C&I waste. A comparison of the treatment scenarios of the waste from these five sectors shows that waste treatment of the craft sector leads to the lowest CO2-equivalent reduction rates of all scenarios. In contrast, the treatment of waste from catering sector leads to the highest CO2-equivalent reduction rates except for direct incineration in waste incineration plants. The sensitivity analysis of the different scenarios for this paper shows that the efficiency and the substitution factor of energy have a relevant influence on the result. Changes in the substitution factor of 10% can result in changes in emissions of approximately 55 to 75 kg CO2-eq. Mg−1 in waste incineration plants and approximately 90 kg CO2-eq. Mg−1 in the case of cement kilns.
What can UK public administration learn from the devolved nations?
Authors: Parry Richard
Published: March 2012

Since the UK devolved administrations first took office in 1999, they have asserted their distinctiveness and identity while remaining within UK norms and traditions of public administration. Many variables now show a balance between institutional continuity and adaptive local practices, including: distinctions between the executive and legislative branches, and between ministers and civil servants; control of expenditure within the UK managed total; the unified Home Civil Service; the position of special advisers; professional networks inside government; public sector integration and joined-up government; techniques of coalition formation and management. Whether these amount to Scottish and Welsh models of public administration (alongside the clearly singular Northern Ireland model) is more contestable. Generally the devolved administrations fall within continuing patterns of UK government, including recent concepts such as ‘public service bargains’, ‘everyday life’ and ‘policy bureaucracy’. The system has proved resilient even in the face of challenges to the UK constitutional order, especially in Scotland, where officials have advised the Scottish National Party government about their constitutional aspirations in the same way as they do for other policy areas, whether or not devolved. Controversy over this role is a reminder that public administration is a third dimension alongside the politics of nationalism and devolution and the service-specific public policies of the devolved nations, and also a contribution to our understanding of adaptations of the Whitehall model.
Development of an algorithm for quality inspection of welded structures
Authors: Stenberg Thomas , Lindgren Eric , Barsoum Zuheir
Published: March 2012

A selection of reliable measurement systems that are able to measure the toe radius along the weld bead in a T-joint has been studied. The results show that the currently used methods and gauges do not provide the required accuracy when measuring the toe radius. The gauges are handled differently by different operators – even when using a vision system – which makes the current evaluation methods subjective and unreliable.

 Therefore, an algorithm has been developed that assesses weld bead surface data and automatically identifies and calculates the toe radius and the toe angle along the weld. The results obtained by the algorithm are consistent with reference measurements and it is possible for the algorithm to be used in improving the process and quality control during welding.
On the use of variable-separation method for the analysis of vibration problems with time-dependent boundary conditions
Authors: Aranda-Ruiz Josué , Fernández-Sáez José
Published: March 2012

In this article, the axial vibrations of a rod with a clamped end and the transversal vibrations of a cantilever beam, both with a time-dependent and non-harmonic force applied on their free ends, are analysed. These are problems in which the traction and the shear, for the rod and the beam, respectively, prescribed in the boundaries of the bodies vary with time. The problems can be solved by the method proposed by Mindlin and Goodman. However, it is usual to solve this problem by the classic variable-separation method (which does not properly fulfil the time-dependent boundary conditions). The displacements and the forces along the systems are derived from both cited methods, and the results are compared. These results highlight the importance of using the proper solution method for the vibration problems with time-dependent boundary conditions.
Organizing the present in anticipation of a better future: Bergson, Whitehead, and the life of a mental health service user
Authors: Tucker Ian
Published: March 2012

The work of Henri Bergson has been influential on recent conceptualizations of the relationship between past, present, and future, particularly in studies of social remembering that argue that the past is a transformative process on the present. This paper will draw on some of the similarities in the temporal ontologies of Bergson and Alfred North Whitehead, and utilize the latter’s work on theorizing the organization of the present in anticipation of the future. This will be used to analyse a case study of a community mental health service user, for whom the future exists as hopeful potential for a better life. The concepts of actual occasion and nexus are recruited to highlight the organized formation of the service user’s home, which enables the anticipatory perception of future life. The paper concludes by arguing for an approach to the study of mental distress that takes seriously the active role of the future on the present, and how such a process is organized as a relational phenomenon in domestic home environments.
Haptics: accessing unused sensory channel capacity
Authors: Book Wayne J
Published: March 2012

Total automation is often not a good solution for tasks in highly customized or unstructured environments or where human interaction itself is the task. Human operation of machines involves the transmission of information in two directions and clearly can confront the limited information channel capacity of the human. An effective solution is known to be the use of more channels or modalities of communication. Directly communicating with haptic channels can augment the overloaded visual and auditory channels and additionally stimulate appropriate corrective manual commands to machines under human control or supervision, resulting in a lower cognitive workload. Sensors, actuators and computational ability are constantly improving. This article examines the opportunities and challenges of employing the haptic sensory channels and also the associated command interfaces that take advantage of this channel. A systems and control perspective is essential to realize the advantages without unduly suffering the adverse effects.
Approximate analytical method for damage detection in free–free beam by measurement of axial vibrations
Authors: Sayyad FB , Kumar B , Khan SA
Published: March 2012

Nowadays, sophisticated structures and machinery parts are constructed by using metallic beams. Beams are widely used as structural element in civil, mechanical, naval, and aeronautical engineering. In structures and machinery, one undesirable phenomenon is crack initiation in which the impact cannot be seen overnight. Cracks develop gradually through time that lead finally to catastrophic failure. Therefore, crack should be monitored regularly with more care. This will lead to more effective preventive measure and ensure continuous operation of the structure and machine. Damage in structure alters its dynamic characteristics. The change is characterized by change in modal parameters, that is, modal frequencies. Thus, vibration technique can be suitably used as a nondestructive test for crack detection of component to be tested. Mostly modal frequencies are used for monitoring the crack because modal frequencies are properties of the whole structure component. In this paper, efforts are made to develop suitable methods that can serve as the basis to detection of crack location and crack size from measured axial vibration data. This method is used to address the inverse problem of assessing the crack location and crack size in various beam structure. The method is based on measurement of axial natural frequencies, which are global parameter and can be easily measured from any point on the structure and also indeed, the advantage in modeling complexity. In theoretical analysis, the relationship between the natural frequencies, crack location, and crack size has been developed. For identification of crack location and crack size, it was shown that data on the variation of the first two natural frequencies is sufficient. The experimental analysis is done to verify the practical applicability of the theoretical method developed.
Equal pay legislation and its impact on the gender pay gap
Authors: Gow Laura , Middlemiss Sam
Published: March 2012

Equal pay legislation has been in existence for over 40 years in the UK and the legal rules dealing with equal pay have been consolidated and amended recently with the implementation of the Equality Act 2010. However, despite this, problems can still be identified with equal pay in the UK, most notably the continued existence of a sizeable gender pay gap. This article will outline the current legal rules on equal pay and analyse their effectiveness in addressing the issue of the gender pay gap. It is clear that a problem such as the gender pay gap is often caused in society by deeply held stereotypical, discriminatory views and in employment by employers (and some employees) with institutionalised discriminatory attitudes and behaviour. These causes of the gender pay gap militate against it being tackled solely by the law (specifically equality legislation). In this article we will undertake a comprehensive analysis of the topic and establish to what extent the current law can facilitate the necessary changes to eradicate this gap. In areas where it is not sufficiently robust to do this we will analyse what further changes are required through adjustments in the legal rules in the UK. Clearly, much is to be gained from eradicating the gender pay gap. However, there are a number of obstacles to achieving this, which are considered.
A common world? Arendt, Castoriadis and political creation
Authors: Straume Ingerid S.
Published: March 2012

Among the many parallels between Hannah Arendt and Cornelius Castoriadis is their shared interest in the kind of politics that is characteristic of the council movements, revolutionary moments and the political democracy of ancient Greece. This article seeks to elucidate how the two thinkers fill out and complement each other’s thought, with special attention to political creation—an ambiguous theme in Arendt’s thought. While critical of the notion of ‘making’ in the political field, Arendt also emphasizes the importance of building institutions. To take this seriously means that her analyses of the nature of politics must be modified and, in this respect, Castoriadis’s understanding of politics as institution-building can serve as a guideline. However, Arendt’s concept of ‘plurality’ in the public sphere represents a level of political analysis that is under-developed in the work of Castoriadis. Taken together, their thought highlights many important aspects of political creation in a radical sense.
Nonlinear features for damage detection on large civil structures due to earthquakes
Authors: Chanpheng Theeraphong , Yamada Hitoshi , Katsuchi Hiroshi , Sasaki Eiichi
Published: March 2012

This article proposes the degree of nonlinearity as a feature for damage detection on large civil structures due to earthquakes. The degree of nonlinearity, which is a numerical value, represents how nonlinear structures behave during earthquakes. The degree of nonlinearity is computed directly from the data of the ground motion and vibration of the structure. The computation of the degree of nonlinearity uses a Hilbert transform and does not require any other nonlinear structural or mathematical models. Therefore, the damage detection process is very fast. Thus, an immediate decision about the condition of structures after strong earthquakes is possible. This article shows theoretically that a plot between the degree of nonlinearity against the magnitude of the ground motion represents the behavior of a structure. This plot is considered the signature of that structure. A structure that is healthy will have its specific healthy signature. If a new earthquake strikes and the new degree of nonlinearity deviates from its healthy signature, the structure may be damaged by that earthquake. To verify the validity of the degree of nonlinearity, numerical studies of nonlinear systems are presented. Although the application of degree of nonlinearity on a real civil structure is still not totally conclusive due to the limitation of data, the results from currently available data are encouraging. With more investigation, the degree of nonlinearity could be an additional or alternative feature for vibration-based structural health monitoring.
Translation and use of parent-completed developmental screening test in Shanghai
Authors: Bian Xiaoyan , Yao Guoying , Squires Jane , Hoselton Rob , Chen Ching-I , Murphy Kimberly , Wei Mei , Fang Binghua
Published: March 2012

As part of efforts throughout China to improve the outcomes of individuals with disabilities, the Shanghai government has launched a campaign to screen at least 95 percent of newborns. To assist in meeting this goal, the Ages & Stages Questionnaires (ASQ), Third Edition, was translated into Chinese and the feasibility of a screening system using the ASQ-Chinese translation (ASQ-C) was investigated in Shanghai. Twenty-nine primary children’s healthcare clinics and several district-wide children’s healthcare institutes participated. Validity and reliability of the ASQ-C were studied as well as utility in pediatric clinics as part of well child visits. Using a sample of more than 8000 caregivers and children from 3 to 66 months of age, screening cutoff scores for each of the 19 ASQ-C intervals were determined, based on two standard deviations below the mean domain score. Inter-rater agreement between ASQ-C completed by 519 parents and a professional assessor was .89. Test-retest reliability for 651 caregivers who completed two ASQ-C at a 1–4 week interval was .91. Cronbach’s coefficient alpha measuring internal consistency ranged from .37 to .79. Convergent validity, measuring agreement between Bayley Scales of Infant Development, 2nd edition, and Denver II outcome categories (i.e. risk, typical) and ASQ-C outcomes (i.e. risk, typical), ranged from .57 to .94. Results from this pilot study suggest the ASQ-C is a promising screening instrument for identification of developmental problems in the Shanghai region. Implementation of a universal screening system in pediatric clinics has the potential to assist in early identification of developmental delays, referral to rehabilitative services, and improvement of developmental outcomes for young children and their families.
When Service Learning meets the Project Approach: Incorporating Service Learning in an early childhood program
Authors: Chun Eul Jung , Hertzog Nancy B , Gaffney Janet S , Dymond Stacy K
Published: March 2012

The researchers described in this case study how Service Learning was incorporated within the context of an early childhood program where the teachers used the Project Approach. The Service Learning project was embedded in an investigation about water and was designed to help tsunami victims in Asia. Participants included two teachers and 12 children age five to seven in a kindergarten/first grade classroom. Data were collected over one month through observations and interviews. This investigation revealed common features shared by Service Learning and the Project Approach. Findings illustrated how the Project Approach facilitated the implementation of Service Learning.
DOCK8 is a Cdc42 activator critical for interstitial dendritic cell migration during immune responses
Authors: Harada Yosuke , Tanaka Yoshihiko , Terasawa Masao , Pieczyk Markus , Habiro Katsuyoshi , Katakai Tomoya , Hanawa-Suetsugu Kyoko , Kukimoto-Niino Mutsuko , Nishizaki Tomoko , Shirouzu Mikako , Duan Xuefeng , Uruno Takehito , Nishikimi Akihiko , Sanematsu Fumiyuki , Yokoyama Shigeyuki , Stein Jens V. , Kinashi Tatsuo , Fukui Yoshinori
Published: March 2012

To migrate efficiently through the interstitium, dendritic cells (DCs) constantly adapt their shape to the given structure of the extracellular matrix and follow the path of least resistance. It is known that this amoeboid migration of DCs requires Cdc42, yet the upstream regulators critical for localization and activation of Cdc42 remain to be determined. Mutations of DOCK8, a member of the atypical guanine nucleotide exchange factor family, causes combined immunodeficiency in humans. In the present study, we show that DOCK8 is a Cdc42-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor that is critical for interstitial DC migration. By generating the knockout mice, we found that in the absence of DOCK8, DCs failed to accumulate in the lymph node parenchyma for T-cell priming. Although DOCK8-deficient DCs migrated normally on 2-dimensional surfaces, DOCK8 was required for DCs to crawl within 3-dimensional fibrillar networks and to transmigrate through the subcapsular sinus floor. This function of DOCK8 depended on the DHR-2 domain mediating Cdc42 activation. DOCK8 deficiency did not affect global Cdc42 activity. However, Cdc42 activation at the leading edge membrane was impaired in DOCK8-deficient DCs, resulting in a severe defect in amoeboid polarization and migration. Therefore, DOCK8 regulates interstitial DC migration by controlling Cdc42 activity spatially.
Pan-genomic analysis of bovine monocyte-derived macrophage gene expression in response to in vitro infection with Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis
Authors: MacHugh David E , Taraktsoglou Maria , Killick Kate E , Nalpas Nicolas C , Browne John A , DE Park Stephen , Hokamp Karsten , Gormley Eamonn , Magee David A
Published: March 2012

Mycobacterium aviumsubspeciesparatuberculosisis the causative agent of Johne’s disease, an intestinal disease of ruminants with major economic consequences. Infectious bacilli are phagocytosed by host macrophages upon exposure where they persist, resulting in lengthy subclinical phases of infection that can lead to immunopathology and disease dissemination. Consequently, analysis of the macrophage transcriptome in response toM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisinfection can provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms that underlie Johne’s disease. Here, we investigate pan-genomic gene expression in bovine monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) purified from seven age-matched females, in response to in vitro infection withM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosis(multiplicity of infection 2:1) at intervals of 2 hours, 6 hours and 24 hours post-infection (hpi). Differentially expressed genes were identified by comparing the transcriptomes of the infected MDM to the non-infected control MDM at each time point (adjustedP-value threshold ≤ 0.10). 1050 differentially expressed unique genes were identified 2 hpi, with 974 and 78 differentially expressed unique genes detected 6 and 24 hpi, respectively. Furthermore, in the infected MDM the number of upregulated genes exceeded the number of downregulated genes at each time point, with the fold-change in expression for the upregulated genes markedly higher than that for the downregulated genes. Inspection and systems biology analysis of the differentially expressed genes revealed an enrichment of genes involved in the inflammatory response, cell signalling pathways and apoptosis. The transcriptional changes associated with cellular signalling and the inflammatory response may reflect different immuno-modulatory mechanisms that underlie host-pathogen interactions during infection.
Characterization of an inducible promoter in different DNA copy number conditions
Authors: Zucca Susanna , Pasotti Lorenzo , Mazzini Giuliano , Cusella De Angelis Maria Gabriella , Magni Paolo
Published: March 2012

Background

The bottom-up programming of living organisms to implement novel user-defined biological capabilities is one of the main goals of synthetic biology. Currently, a predominant problem connected with the construction of even simple synthetic biological systems is the unpredictability of the genetic circuitry when assembled and incorporated in living cells. Copy number, transcriptional/translational demand and toxicity of the DNA-encoded functions are some of the major factors which may lead to cell overburdening and thus to nonlinear effects on system output. It is important to disclose the linearity working boundaries of engineered biological systems when dealing with such phenomena.

Results

The output of an N-3-oxohexanoyl-L-homoserine lactone (HSL)-inducible RFP-expressing device was studied in Escherichia coli in different copy number contexts, ranging from 1 copy per cell (integrated in the genome) to hundreds (via multicopy plasmids). The system is composed by a luxR constitutive expression cassette and a RFP gene regulated by the luxI promoter, which is activated by the HSL-LuxR complex. System output, in terms of promoter activity as a function of HSL concentration, was assessed relative to the one of a reference promoter in identical conditions by using the Relative Promoter Units (RPU) approach. Nonlinear effects were observed in the maximum activity, which is identical in single and low copy conditions, while it decreases for higher copy number conditions. In order to properly compare the luxI promoter strength among all the conditions, a mathematical modeling approach was used to relate the promoter activity to the estimated HSL-LuxR complex concentration, which is the actual activator of transcription. During model fitting, a correlation between the copy number and the dissociation constant of HSL-LuxR complex and luxI promoter was observed.

Conclusions

Even in a simple inducible system, nonlinear effects are observed and non-trivial data processing is necessary to fully characterize its operation. The in-depth analysis of model systems like this can contribute to the advances in the synthetic biology field, since increasing the knowledge about linearity and working boundaries of biological phenomena could lead to a more rational design of artificial systems, also through mathematical models, which, for example, have been used here to study hard-to-predict interactions.
Towards linked open gene mutations data
Authors: Zappa Achille , Splendiani Andrea , Romano Paolo
Published: March 2012

Background

With the advent of high-throughput technologies, a great wealth of variation data is being produced. Such information may constitute the basis for correlation analyses between genotypes and phenotypes and, in the future, for personalized medicine. Several databases on gene variation exist, but this kind of information is still scarce in the Semantic Web framework.

In this paper, we discuss issues related to the integration of mutation data in the Linked Open Data infrastructure, part of the Semantic Web framework. We present the development of a mapping from the IARC TP53 Mutation database to RDF and the implementation of servers publishing this data.

Methods

A version of the IARC TP53 Mutation database implemented in a relational database was used as first test set. Automatic mappings to RDF were first created by using D2RQ and later manually refined by introducing concepts and properties from domain vocabularies and ontologies, as well as links to Linked Open Data implementations of various systems of biomedical interest.

Since D2RQ query performances are lower than those that can be achieved by using an RDF archive, generated data was also loaded into a dedicated system based on tools from the Jena software suite.

Results

We have implemented a D2RQ Server for TP53 mutation data, providing data on a subset of the IARC database, including gene variations, somatic mutations, and bibliographic references. The server allows to browse the RDF graph by using links both between classes and to external systems. An alternative interface offers improved performances for SPARQL queries. The resulting data can be explored by using any Semantic Web browser or application.

Conclusions

This has been the first case of a mutation database exposed as Linked Data. A revised version of our prototype, including further concepts and IARC TP53 Mutation database data sets, is under development.

The publication of variation information as Linked Data opens new perspectives: the exploitation of SPARQL searches on mutation data and other biological databases may support data retrieval which is presently not possible. Moreover, reasoning on integrated variation data may support discoveries towards personalized medicine.