bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hamiltonian model of electromechanical actuator in natural reference frame.: Part I: Topology-based approximation algorithm
Authors: Burlikowski Wojciech
Published: September 2011

Hamiltonian model of electromechanical actuator in natural reference frame.: Part I: Topology-based approximation algorithm

In the paper a novel mathematical model of electromechanical actuator is presented. It is based on application of Hamiltonian equations in the description of electromechanical energy conversion. It results in employment of flux linkages as state variables in the state space equations. For simplicity only a 3-phase wye connected stator winding without a neutral wire is considered in detail. The procedure can be generalised to any number of phases. Topology-based approach is used in the model implementation. Procedures for evaluation of all quantities (currents, energy/coenergy, electromagnetic torque) present in model equations are described. Eddy currents and hysteresis phenolmenon are neglected in formulation of the model to enable application of state-space description.
A study on permanent magnet topologies for hybrid bearings for medical drives applied in Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Pohlmann André , Hameyer Kay
Published: September 2011

A study on permanent magnet topologies for hybrid bearings for medical drives applied in Ventricular Assist Devices

In industrialized countries cardiovascular diseases are the major cause of death. The last clinical therapy option for some patients, suffering from terminal heart diseases, is donor heart transplantation. As the available number of donor organs is decreasing, many patients die while waiting for a transplant. For this reason Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs), which can mechanically support the human heart to achieve a sufficient perfusion of the body, are under development. For an implantable VAD, design constraints have to be deduced from the physiological conditions in the human body. In case of a VAD drive, these constraints are for example dimensions, electric losses, which might result in an overheating of blood, and a long durability. Therefore a hybrid permanent magnet hydrodynamic bearing is designed in this paper, which works passively and contactless. Based on Finite Element simulations of magnetic fields, various permanent magnet topologies are studied in terms of axial forces and stiffness.
Atomically Monodisperse Gold Nanoclusters Catalysts with Precise Core-Shell Structure
Authors: Zhu Yan , Jin Rongchao , Sun Yuhan
Published: September 2011

The emphasis of this review is atomically monodisperse Aun nanoclusters catalysts (n = number of metal atom in cluster) that are ideally composed of an exact number of metal atoms. Aun which range in size from a dozen to a few hundred atoms are particularly promising for nanocatalysis due to their unique core-shell structure and non-metallic electronic properties. Aun nanoclusters catalysts have been demonstrated to exhibit excellent catalytic activity in hydrogenation and oxidation processes. Such unique properties of Aun significantly promote molecule activation by enhancing adsorption energy of reactant molecules on catalyst surface. The structural determination of Aun nanoclusters allows for a precise correlation of particle structure with catalytic properties and also permits the identification of catalytically active sites on the gold particle at an atomic level. By learning these fundamental principles, one would ultimately be able to design new types of highly active and highly selective gold nanocluster catalysts for a variety of catalytic processes.
The Antioxidant Activity of New Coumarin Derivatives
Authors: Kadhum Abdul Amir H. , Al-Amiery Ahmed A. , Musa Ahmed Y. , Mohamad Abu Bakar
Published: September 2011

The antioxidant activity of two synthesized coumarins namely, N-(4,7-dioxo-2-phenyl-1,3-oxazepin-3(2H,4H,7H)-yl)-2-(2-oxo-2H-chromen-4-yloxy)acetamide 5 and N-(4-oxo-2-phenylthiazolidin-3-yl)-2-(2-oxo-2H-chromen-4-yloxy)acetamide 6 were studied with the DPPH, hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide radical methods and compared with the known antioxidant ascorbic acid. Compounds 5 and 6 were synthesized in a good yield from the addition reaction of maleic anhydride or mercaptoacetic acid to compound 4， namely N'-benzylidene-2-(2-oxo-2H-chromen-4-yloxy)acetohydrazide. Compound 4 was synthesized by the condensation of compound 3, namely 2-(2-oxo-2H-chromen-4-yloxy) acetohydrazide, with benzaldehyde. Compound 3, however, was synthesized from the addition of hydrazine to compound 2, namely ethyl 2-(2-oxo-2H-chromen-4-yloxy)acetate, which was synthesized from the reaction of ethyl bromoacetate with 4-hydroxycoumarin 1. Structures for the synthesized coumarins 2–6 are proposed on the basis of spectroscopic evidence.
Two Types of Inulin Fructotransferases
Authors: Haraguchi Kazutomo
Published: September 2011

Inulin is a polysaccharide contained in chicory, dahlia, and other plants. An oligosaccharide DFA III is produced from inulin using a microbial enzyme, inulin fructotransferase (DFA III producing) [EC 2.4.1.93]. The oligosaccharide DFAIII has a unique functionality that accelerates the assimilation of minerals (Ca, Fe, and so on) from intestines. Therefore, it has a potential for the improvement of osteoporosis and iron deficiency anemia. The production of DFA III was industrialized in 2004 in Japan. Another oligosaccharide DFA I is produced from inulin by another enzyme, inulin fructotransferase (DFA I producing) [EC 2.4.1.200]. The oligosaccharide DFA I has half the sweetness of sucrose. The genes of the two enzymes were cloned and the nucleotide sequences were determined. The deduced amino acid sequences of two enzyme genes had a homology of 49.8%.
Synthesis, Spectroscopic Properties and Antipathogenic Activity of New Thiourea Derivatives
Authors: Limban Carmen , Marutescu Luminita , Chifiriuc Mariana Carmen
Published: September 2011

A number of acylthioureas, 2-((4-methylphenoxy)methyl)-N-(aryl-carbamothioyl)benzamides (aryl = 3,5-dichlorophenyl, 2,3-dichlorophenyl, 3,4-dichloro-phenyl, 2,4,5-trichlorophenyl, 3,4,5-trichlorophenyl, 2-bromophenyl, 2,4-dibromophenyl, 2,5-dibromophenyl, 2-iodophenyl, 3-fluorophenyl, 2,3,4-trifluorophenyl, 2,4,5-trifluoro-phenyl, 2,4,6-trifluorophenyl) have been synthesized, characterized by elemental analysis, IR and NMR spectroscopy and tested for their interaction with bacterial cells in free and adherent state. The anti-pathogenic activity was correlated with the presence of one iodine, bromide or fluorine, and two or three chloride atoms on the N-phenyl substituent of the thiourea moiety, being significant especially on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus strains, known for their ability to grow in biofilms. Our results demonstrate the potential of these derivatives for further development of novel anti-microbial agents with antibiofilm properties.
Synthesis of Quinolin-2-one Alkaloid Derivatives and Their Inhibitory Activities against HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase
Authors: Cheng Pi , Gu Qiong , Liu Wei , Zou Jian-Feng , Ou Yang-Yong , Luo Zhong-Yong , Zeng Jian-Guo
Published: September 2011

Based on an established common pharmacophore of HIV-1 non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNTTIs), a series of quinolin-2-one derivatives were synthesized and assayed for their in vitro activities against HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT) for the first time. Some of the tested compounds were active against HIV-1 RT. Compounds 4a2 and 4d2 showed inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 0.21 and 0.15 mM, respectively, with a mode of interaction with RT residues of the allosteric pocket similar to that of efavirenz.
Synthesis of Some Oxadiazole Derivatives as New Anticandidal Agents
Authors: Kaplancikli Zafer Asim
Published: September 2011

In this study, 5-[(pyrimidin-2-ylthio)methyl]-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2(3H)-thione (3) was synthesized via the ring closure reaction of 2-(pyrimidin-2-ylthio)acetohydrazide (2) with carbon disulphide. New oxadiazole derivatives 4a-f were obtained by the nucleophilic substitution reaction of compound 3 with various phenacyl bromides. The chemical structures of the compounds were elucidated by IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and FAB+-MS spectral data and elemental analyses. The newly synthesized derivatives 4a-f were tested in vitro by using a microbroth dilution method against C. albicans (clinical isolate, Osmangazi University, Faculty of Medicine, Eskişehir, Turkey), C. albicans (ATCC 90028), C. glabrata (clinical isolate, Osmangazi University, Faculty of Medicine, Eskişehir, Turkey), C. tropicalis (NRRL Y-12968), C. krusei (NRRL Y-7179), C. parapsilosis (NRRL Y- 12696), C. albicans (NRRL Y-12983), C. glabrata (clinical isolate, Anadolu University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Eskişehir, Turkey). Among these compounds, compound 4a was found to be the most potent derivative (MIC = 0.007–0.06 versus ketoconazole: 0.001–0.007 mg/mL) against Candida species, except C. tropicalis and C. krusei when compared with the standard antifungal ketoconazole.
Antioxidant and Antiacetylcholinesterase Activities of Some Commercial Essential Oils and Their Major Compounds
Authors: Aazza Smail , Lyoussi Badiâ , Miguel Maria G.
Published: September 2011

The commercial essential oils of Citrus aurantium L., Cupressus sempervirens L., Eucalyptus globulus Labill., Foeniculum vulgare Mill. and Thymus vulgaris L., isolated by steam distillation by a company of Morocco were evaluated in terms of in vitro antioxidant activity through several methods. In vitro acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity was also determined. Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f. oil was also studied, but it was obtained by peel expression. The best antioxidant was T. vulgaris oil, independent of the method used, mainly due to the presence of the phenolic monoterpenes thymol and carvacrol, which when studied as single compounds also presented the best activities. Concerning the acetylcholinesterase inhibition activity, E. globulus was the most effective. Nevertheless its main components 1,8-cineole and limonene were not the most active, a feature that corresponded to d-3-carene.
A Fiber Bragg Grating—Bimetal Temperature Sensor for Solar Panel Inverters
Authors: Ismail Mohd Afiq , Tamchek Nizam , Hassan Muhammad Rosdi Abu , Dambul Katrina D. , Selvaraj Jeyraj , Rahim Nasrudin Abd , Sandoghchi Seyed Reza , Adikan Faisal Rafiq Mahamd
Published: September 2011

This paper reports the design, characterization and implementation of a Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG)-based temperature sensor for an Insulted-Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) in a solar panel inverter. The FBG is bonded to the higher Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) side of a bimetallic strip to increase its sensitivity. Characterization results show a linear relationship between increasing temperature and the wavelength shift. It is found that the sensitivity of the sensor can be categorized into three characterization temperature regions between 26 °C and 90 °C. The region from 41 °C to 90 °C shows the highest sensitivity, with a value of 14 pm/°C. A new empirical model that considers both temperature and strain effects has been developed for the sensor. Finally, the FBG-bimetal temperature sensor is placed in a solar panel inverter and results confirm that it can be used for real-time monitoring of the IGBT temperature.
Filoviral Immune Evasion Mechanisms
Authors: Ramanan Parameshwaran , Shabman Reed S. , Brown Craig S. , Amarasinghe Gaya K. , Basler Christopher F. , Leung Daisy W.
Published: September 2011

The Filoviridae family of viruses, which includes the genera Ebolavirus (EBOV) and Marburgvirus (MARV), causes severe and often times lethal hemorrhagic fever in humans. Filoviral infections are associated with ineffective innate antiviral responses as a result of virally encoded immune antagonists, which render the host incapable of mounting effective innate or adaptive immune responses. The Type I interferon (IFN) response is critical for establishing an antiviral state in the host cell and subsequent activation of the adaptive immune responses. Several filoviral encoded components target Type I IFN responses, and this innate immune suppression is important for viral replication and pathogenesis. For example, EBOV VP35 inhibits the phosphorylation of IRF-3/7 by the TBK-1/IKKε kinases in addition to sequestering viral RNA from detection by RIG-I like receptors. MARV VP40 inhibits STAT1/2 phosphorylation by inhibiting the JAK family kinases. EBOV VP24 inhibits nuclear translocation of activated STAT1 by karyopherin-α. The examples also represent distinct mechanisms utilized by filoviral proteins in order to counter immune responses, which results in limited IFN-α/β production and downstream signaling.
What does it take to resolve relationships and to identify species with molecular markers? An example from the epiphytic Rhipsalideae (Cactaceae)
Authors: Korotkova Nadja , Borsch Thomas , Quandt Dietmar , Taylor Nigel P. , Müller Kai F. , Barthlott Wilhelm
Published: September 2011

• Premise of the study: The Cactaceae are a major New World plant family and popular in horticulture. Still, taxonomic units and species limits have been difficult to define, and molecular phylogenetic studies so far have yielded largely unresolved trees, so relationships within Cactaceae remain insufficiently understood. This study focuses on the predominantly epiphytic tribe Rhipsalideae and evaluates the utility of a spectrum of plastid genomic regions.

• Methods: We present a phylogenetic study including 52 of the 53 Rhipsalideae species and all the infraspecific taxa. Seven regions (trnK intron, matK, rbcL, rps3‐rpl16, rpl16 intron, psbA‐trnH, trnQ‐rps16), ca. 5600 nucleotides (nt) were sequenced per sample. The regions used were evaluated for their phylogenetic performance and performance in DNA‐based species recognition based on operational taxonomic units (OTUs) defined beforehand.

• Key results: The Rhipsalideae are monophyletic and contain five clades that correspond to the genera Rhipsalis, Lepismium, Schlumbergera, Hatiora, and Rhipsalidopsis. The species‐level tree was well resolved and supported; the rpl16 and trnK introns yielded the best phylogenetic signal. Although the psbA‐trnH and trnQ‐rps16 spacers were the most successful individual regions for OTU identification, their success rate did not significantly exceed 70%. The highest OTU identification rate of 97% was found using the combination of psbA‐trnH, rps3‐rpl16, trnK intron, and trnQ‐rps16 as a minimum possible marker length (ca. 1660 nt).

• Conclusions: The phylogenetic performance of a marker is not determined by the level of sequence variability, and species discrimination power does not necessarily correlate with phylogenetic utility.
Failure of Pre-Emptive Treatment of Cytomegalovirus Infections and Antiviral Resistance in Stem Cell Transplant Recipients
Authors: van der Beek Martha T , Marijt Erik WAF , Vossen Ann CTM , van der Blij-de Brouwer Caroline S , Wolterbeek Ron , Halkes Constantijn JM , Claas Eric CJ , Kroes Aloys CM
Published: September 2011

Background

Treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections after stem cell transplantation (SCT) does not always lead to a rapid viral response. The causes of treatment failure may be either viral resistance or immunological failure to control viral replication. This study investigated the response to pre-emptive treatment in CMV infections in order to define risk factors for treatment failure, including the role of antiviral resistance.

Methods

Adult recipients of allogeneic T-cell depleted SCT were studied retrospectively ( n=92). CMV infections were treated with (val)ganciclovir according to a CMV DNA-load-based pre-emptive strategy. Treatment failure was defined as a CMV DNA load of 1,000 copies/ml or more after at least 2 weeks of treatment. Resistance was analysed by nucleotide sequence analysis of the UL97 and UL54 genes in the first CMV DNA-positive sample and in samples during treatment failure.

Results

Treatment failure occurred in 26 of the 47 pre-emptively treated patients (55%) and in 39 of 86 (45%) treatment episodes. The risk of treatment failure was increased during first treatment episodes ( P=0.01) and during the use of immunosuppressive medication ( P=0.02). Antiviral resistance was found in only 1 patient (4%) with treatment failure.

Conclusions

A slow response to pre-emptive antiviral treatment occurred frequently in CMV infections in SCT recipients. Antiviral resistance was observed but played a minor role in treatment failure.
Bilan organisationnel des compétences individuelles en fonction de leur criticité
Authors: Cesar Marianne
Published: September 2011

Afin de dépasser les limites d’une conception réductrice de la gestion des compétences axée sur l’évaluation d’une somme d’apprentissages individuels, le développement des capacités adaptatives d’une organisation a été abordé sous l’angle d’un processus d’apprentissage organisationnel. La construction d’un modèle cyclique de la dynamique d’apprentissage organisationnel a servi de cadre à l’opérationnalisation de la première de ses quatre phases, portant sur la répartition des compétences détenues par une organisation. Afin de décrire le risque de perte de compétences et de localiser les compétences détenues par rapport aux entités structurelles de l’organisation et aux activités qu’elle met en œuvre, la notion de compétence critique a été définie au regard de cinq facteurs de criticité (nombre de détenteurs, fréquence de mise en œuvre des compétences, autonomie des détenteurs, formalisation des compétences et âge des détenteurs). L’étude de ces facteurs réalisée dans une entreprise de tuyauterie industrielle a permis de distinguer des services caractérisés par un risque massif de perte de compétences et des services caractérisés par des difficultés à développer les compétences détenues, mais aussi des services « mixtes » caractérisés par ces deux types de risques. Ces résultats mettent en évidence la nécessité de décentraliser la fonction ressources humaines grâce à l’implication des chefs de service dans la gestion des compétences, mais également l’importance de redéfinir les modalités d’évaluation des compétences au regard du niveau individuel, collectif ou organisationnel de réalisation des apprentissages.
Réviser un texte procédural en manipulant un dispositif : implications sur l'élaboration de différents niveaux de représentation et sur la qualité du texte produit
Authors: Ganier Franck , Pétillon Sabine
Published: September 2011

Cet article a pour objectif de montrer l’importance que revêtent la présence d’un dispositif et sa manipulation lors de la révision de documents procéduraux. Une expérience a été conçue pour vérifier que la présence ou l’absence du dispositif à manipuler pouvait avoir une influence sur l’élaboration de différents niveaux de représentation (littérale, sémantique et référentielle ; Dixon, Harrison & Taylor, 1993). Les résultats montrent qu’en l’absence du dispositif à manipuler, les rédacteurs chargés de réviser sa notice se focalisent surtout sur l’élaboration de représentations littérales – mais aussi sémantiques – du texte. En revanche, en présence du dispositif, les rédacteurs se focalisent plutôt sur l’élaboration de représentations pragmatiques (ou référentielles) et sémantiques. En l’absence du dispositif, les révisions touchent plus particulièrement les aspects de surface (par exemple, l’orthographe) et sémantiques du texte, alors qu’en sa présence, elles concernent plutôt les aspects pragmatiques (mais aussi sémantiques) du texte, au détriment des aspects de surface (Diehl, 2004). Complémentairement à cette expérience, trois notices ont été évaluées comparativement : celle fournie par le fabricant, une notice révisée en l’absence du dispositif et une notice révisée en présence du dispositif. Les résultats montrent que la notice révisée en présence du dispositif est choisie préférentiellement aux deux autres, la notice du fabricant étant le plus souvent classée en dernière position. L’ensemble de l’étude donne lieu à des préconisations pour la révision des documents procéduraux.
Visual and IOP Outcomes After PRK in Pigment Dispersion Syndrome
Authors: Bower Kraig S. , Sia Rose K. , Ryan Denise S. , Mines Michael J. , Stutzman Richard D. , Kuzmowych Chrystyna P. , Eaddy Jennifer B. , Coe Charles D. , Wroblewski Keith J.
Published: September 2011

PURPOSE:

To report the results of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) in patients with pigment dispersion syndrome.

METHODS:

The pre- and postoperative records of patients with pigment dispersion syndrome who underwent PRK between January 2002 and March 2009 were reviewed. Data for analysis included gender, age, ablation depth, surgical complications, manifest refraction spherical equivalent, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), central corneal thickness (CCT), cup-to-disc (c/d) ratio, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS:

Thirty-seven eyes of 19 patients (17 men and 2 women) with a mean age of 37.5±6.9 years were included for review. At final follow-up, mean 404.1±119.5 days postoperative, UDVA was 20/15 or better in 67.6%, 20/20 or better in 91.9%, and 20/25 or better in 100% of eyes; 94.6% of eyes were within 0.50 diopters (D) and 100% were within 1.00 D of emmetropia. Corrected distance visual acuity was unchanged from preoperative in 73% and improved by one line in 27% of eyes. No eye lost 1 or more lines of CDVA. When corrected for change in CCT and curvature, mean postoperative IOP was elevated from baseline (16.7±3.8 mmHg) at 1 month (18.1±4.9 mmHg,
P
=.044) but unchanged at any other time postoperatively. Two (11%) of 19 patients were steroid responders, requiring a single topical agent until completing the course of steroids. No significant change was noted in mean c/d ratio from baseline (0.35±0.12) to final postoperative (0.35±0.13,
P
=.99).

CONCLUSIONS:

Although PRK in patients with pigment dispersion syndrome resulted in excellent UDVA, retention of CDVA, and low incidence of adverse effects 1 to 2 years after surgery, long-term safety and efficacy outcomes of PRK in this cohort remain speculative.
Analysis of the Relationship Between Drusen Size and Drusen Area in Eyes With Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Friberg Thomas R. , Bilonick Richard A. , Brennen Peter M.
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To examine the relationship between drusen counts and drusen area in eyes with age-related macular degeneration, and to correlate drusen areas between fellow eyes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Digital images from 378 patients (756 eyes) were analyzed using a validated drusen detection algorithm. Total drusen area and the number of drusen of various sizes (small: < 62 microns, intermediate: 63–124 microns, large: 125–249 microns, etc) were recorded for the central 1,000- and 3,000-micron diameter macular regions. Correlations were assessed using structural equation models.

RESULTS:

For the 1,000-micron region, the number of intermediate drusen was more highly correlated to total drusen area than the number of large drusen (R = 0.91 vs 0.82); this difference was statistically significant. The correlation coefficients for drusen area between fellow eyes was 0.73.

CONCLUSION:

The number of large drusen does not correlate better with total drusen area than drusen of other sizes. The number of large drusen is not necessarily a good surrogate for total drusen area.
Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Features of Mild and Severe Acute Solar Retinopathy
Authors: Bonyadi Mohammad Hossein Jabbarpoor , Soheilian Rasam , Soheilian Masoud , Peyman Gholam A.
Published: September 2011

Photochemical/thermal retinal damage that results from unprotected solar eclipse viewing has vague presentations and sometimes misleading diagnosis, especially in cases with unclear history. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) is a non-invasive imaging technique useful in differential diagnosis that can reveal characteristic foveal alterations in solar retinopathy to an unprecedented quasi histologic level. The authors present high-resolution SD-OCT findings correlated with clinical findings in three eyes of two cases with acute solar retinopathy. SD-OCT can precisely define the site and extent of damage in acute solar retinopathy. In mild forms, damage may be limited to the outer retina with inner segment/outer segment disruption. In severe forms, full thickness macular damage may be seen. Advances in retinal imaging have improved our ability to provide precise correlation with clinical presentation and prognosis.
Intravitreal Ganciclovir and Dexamethasone as Adjunctive Therapy in the Management of Acute Retinal Necrosis Caused by Varicella Zoster Virus
Authors: Kishore Kamal , Jain Sachin , Zarbin Marco A.
Published: September 2011

A 40-year-old man presented with a visual acuity of 20/400 in his right eye due to acute retinal necrosis involving two inferior quadrants. Diagnostic vitreous tap was positive for varicella zoster virus and he received intravitreal injections of ganciclovir (2 mg/0.1 mL) and dexamethasone (400 mcg/0.1 mL). Oral prednisone was added on day 3 and tapered over 3 months. Lesions showed pigmentation around day 5 and healed by day 9. He developed vitreous hemorrhage 5 months after presentation and was treated with 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy combined with panretinal photocoagulation. Final follow-up at 7 months showed a visual acuity of 20/30, mild optic atrophy, narrow arteries, healed retinal lesions, and good panretinal photocoagulation. Intravitreal injections of dexamethasone and ganciclovir may have a role as an adjunctive therapy in the management of patients with acute retinal necrosis, particularly those caused by varicella zoster virus.
Phylogeography of weakfish Cynoscion guatucupa (Perciformes: Sciaenidae) from the southwestern Atlantic
Authors: Fernández Iriarte Pedro J. , Pía Alonso María , Sabadin David E. , Arauz Pedro A. , Iudica Celia M.
Published: September 2011

The genetic structure of populations/species was established during the Quaternary glaciations. Over the last 250 ka (Pleistocene), the South American marine biogeographic history recorded three main glaciations: the most extensive one between 140 and 180 ka, a minor one between 60 and 70 ka, and the last glaciation approximately between 15 and 35 ka. With the aim of assessing the pattern of molecular diversity and historical demography of weakfish (Cynoscion guatucupa), a 365 bp sequence of the mitochondrial control region was amplified at four coastal sites located in the southwestern Atlantic. Haplotype diversity was high, whereas nucleotide diversity was low and similar at each sample site. AMOVA failed to detect population structure. This lack of differentiation was subsequently observed in the distribution of samples sites in the haplotype network. Fu’s Fs was negative and highly significant while the mismatch analysis yielded a unimodal distribution, indicating a global population expansion. The Bayesian skyline plot revealed a coalescence time of weakfish population at approximately 210 ka, and a very rapid expansion from 180-190 ka, probably caused by a habitat expansion, as these two events coincide in time.
Yersinia enterocolitica: Mode of Transmission, Molecular Insights of Virulence, and Pathogenesis of Infection
Authors: Sabina Yeasmin , Rahman Atiqur , Ray Ramesh Chandra , Montet Didier
Published: September 2011

AlthoughYersinia enterocoliticais usually transmitted through contaminated food and untreated water, occasional transmission such as human-to-human, animal-to-human and blood transfusion associated transmission have also identified in human disease. Of the sixY. enterocoliticabiotypes, the virulence of the pathogenic biotypes, namely, 1B and 2–5 is attributed to the presence of a highly conserved 70-kb virulence plasmid, termed pYV/pCD and certain chromosomal genes. Some biotype 1A strains, despite lacking virulence plasmid (pYV) and traditional chromosomal virulence genes, are isolated frequently from humans with gastrointestinal diseases similar to that produced by isolates belonging known pathogenic biotypes.Y. enterocoliticapathogenic biotypes have evolved two major properties: the ability to penetrate the intestinal wall, which is thought to be controlled by plasmid genes, and the production of heat-stable enterotoxin, which is controlled by chromosomal genes.
Multiple Comorbid Conditions among Middle-Aged and Elderly Hemophilia Patients: Prevalence Estimates and Implications for Future Care
Authors: Khleif Aroub A. , Rodriguez Nidra , Brown Deborah , Escobar Miguel A.
Published: September 2011

Introduction. Advances in hemophilia care and treatment have led to increases in the life expectancy among hemophiliacs. As a result, persons with hemophilia are reaching an older age and experiencing various age-related health conditions never seen before in this population.Aim. To determine the prevalence of comorbidities among middle-aged and elderly hemophilia A and hemophilia B patients.Methods. Retrospective chart review among all hemophilia patients, who attended the Gulf States Hemophilia and Thrombophilia Center.Results. All patients had at least one comorbid condition other than hemophilia, and the majority had between 3 and 6 comorbidities. The most common conditions identified were chronic hepatitis C, hypertension, HIV, chronic arthropathy, and overweight/obesity.Conclusions. Since persons with comorbidities are more likely to have poorer health outcomes and require greater care in managing their health needs, caring for aging hemophiliacs is likely to pose various social and economic challenges for both patients and providers.
Expression pattern of thymosin beta 4 in the adult human liver
Authors: Nemolato S. , Van Eyken P. , Cabras T. , Cau F. , Fanari M.U. , Locci A. , Fanni D. , Gerosa C.L.P. , Messana I. , Castagnola M. , Faa G.
Published: September 2011

Thymosin beta-4 (TÎ²4) is a member of beta-thymosins, a family of small peptides involved in polymerization of G-actin, and in many critical biological processes including apoptosis, cell migration, angiogenesis, and fibrosis. Previous studies in the newborn liver did not reveal any significant reactivity for TÎ²4 during the intrauterine life. The aim of the present study was to investigate by immunohistochemistry TÎ²4 expression in the adult normal liver. Thirty-five human liver samples, including 11 needle liver biopsies and 24 liver specimens obtained at autopsy, in which no pathological change was detected at the histological examination, were immunostained utilizing an anti-TÎ²4 commercial antibody. TÎ²4 was detected in the hepatocytes of all adult normal livers examined. A zonation of TÎ²4 expression was evident in the vast majority of cases. Immunostaining was preferentially detected in zone 3, while a minor degree of reactivity was detected in periportal hepatocytes (zone 1). At higher power, TÎ²4-reactive granules appeared mainly localized at the biliary pole of hepatocytes. In cases with a strong immunostaining, even perinuclear areas and the sinusoidal pole of hepatocytes appeared interested by immunoreactivity for TÎ²4. The current work first evidences a strong diffuse expression of TÎ²4 in the adult human liver, and adds hepatocytes to the list of human cells able to synthesize large amounts of TÎ²4 in adulthood. Moreover, TÎ²4 should be added to the liver proteins characterized by a zonate expression pattern, in a descending gradient from the terminal vein to the periportal areas of the liver acinus. Identifying the intimate role played by this peptide intracellularly and extracellularly, in physiology and in different liver diseases, is a major challenge for future research focusing on TÎ²4.
Community Genetics and Health Approaches for Bringing Awareness in Tribals for the Prevention of Beta-Thalassemia in India
Authors: Balgir Ranbir
Published: September 2011

Beta (β) thalassemia syndromes are a group of hereditary disorders characterized by a genetic deficiency in the synthesis of β-globin chains. In the homozygous state, β-thalassemia (i.e., thalassemia major) causes severe transfusion-dependent anemia. Inherited β-thalassemia syndromes cause high degree of hemolytic anemia, recurrent fever, clinical jaundice, frequent infections, bossing of cheek bones, growth retardation, splenomegaly, etc. and are responsible for high infant morbidity, mortality and fetal wastage in India. The victims include the infants, growing children, adolescent girls, pregnant women and a large chunk of ignorant people. In view of heavy genetic load, frequent requirement of blood transfusions, high cost of treatment and management, physical trauma, and mental and psychological harassment to the patients and their families, it has been realized that preventive community health and genetics approach is the most suitable for India. After carrier detection, prenatal diagnosis, and genetic couselling are the important options for couples at high risk for β-thalassemia. A prerequisite for successful prevention and intervention approach in India is the health education, bringing public awareness, sensitization, and community screening for the identification of heterozygotes or carriers in the concerned community. Some suggestions for the prevention of β-thalassemia in the vulnerable communities of India have been over emphasized for amelioration.
Mini-Workshop: Nonlinear Least Squares in Shape Identification Problems
Authors: Dambrine Marc , Hettlich Frank , Potthast Roland
Published: September 2011

This mini-workshop brought together mathematicians engaged in shape optimization and in inverse problems in order to address a specific class of problems on the reconstruction of geometries. Such a problem can be formulated as an inverse problem forgetting the shape point of view or as minimization with respect to the shape.
Topological and Geometric Combinatorics
Authors: Björner Anders , Kalai Gil , Novik Isabella , Ziegler Günter M.
Published: September 2011

The 2011 Oberwolfach meeting “Topological and Geometric Combinatorics” was organized by Anders Björner (Stockholm), Gil Kalai (Jerusalem), Isabella Novik (Seattle), and Günter M. Ziegler (Berlin). It covered a wide variety of aspects of Discrete Geometry, Topological Combinatorics, and Geometric Topology. Some of the highlights of the conference included (1) counterexamples to the Hirsch conjecture, (2) the latest results around the colored Tverberg theorem, and (3) recent developments on the complexity of the simplex algorithm.
Geometric Quantization in the Non-compact Setting
Authors: Jeffrey Lisa , Ma Xiaonan , Vergne Michèle
Published: September 2011

The purpose of the workshop was to bring together mathematicians interested in ”quantization of manifolds” in a broad sense: given classical data, such as a Lie group
G
acting on a symplectic manifold
M
, construct a quantum version, that is a representation of
G
in a vector space
Q
(
M
) reflecting the classical properties of
M
.
Mini-Workshop: History of Numerical and Graphical Tables
Authors: Tobies Renate , Tournès Dominique
Published: September 2011

Numerical tables were one of the most commonly used instruments of calculation from the earliest periods for which we have evidence of mathematical activity until the appearance of computing machines. Such tables (including graphical tables) are interesting both as tools of calculation and insofar as traces for certain social and scientific activities of the practitioners by, and for, whom they were produced. Nevertheless, despite the fact that the historical record has preserved thousands of tables from a broad range of civilizations, these tables have themselves received relatively little critical study. Hence, it has seemed to us both useful and innovative to consider the problem of tables in general by bringing together specialists of the different mathematical traditions and of the various professional milieus in which numerical tables have been developed. The workshop allowed us therefore to make significant breakthroughs in our understanding of the places and roles of tables in the history of science, and should bring us to publish a collective book on this subject.
Mini-Workshop: Level Sets and Depth Contours in High Dimensional Data
Authors: Hubert Mia , Li Jun , Polonik Wolfgang , Serfling Robert J.
Published: September 2011

Extraction of information about the distribution underlying a high-dimensional data set is a formidable, complex problem dominating modern nonparametric statistics. Two general strategies are (i) to extract merely qualitative information, such as modality or other shape information, and (ii) to consider relatively simple inference problems, such as binary classification. One approach toward (i) and (ii) is based on measuring qualitative information via mass concentration functions. Another approach is based on multivariate depth functions and inherently addresses issues of robustness. Having different orientations and aims, these approaches have evolved in parallel with little interaction. Yet they both in common implicitly involve level set estimation as a major tool. This mini-workshop was the first serious attempt to study and exploit such interconnections between these approaches. Researchers from both areas exchanged ideas toward forging a novel, synergistic approach that fruitfully strengthens the roles of mass concentration and depth methods in statistical inference for multivariate data. Foundations for level set estimation as a general statistical method were explored. Deeper understanding of the so-called generalized quantiles approach was pursued. Application to binary classification, a pervasive problem in modern statistics, received intensive special attention.
Automorphic Forms: New Directions
Authors: Kudla Stephen S. , Schwermer Joachim
Published: September 2011

The workshop on Automorphic Forms: New Directions provided a nice glimpse of the many streams of current research activity in this very active area. Topics included the relative trace formula and periods of automorphic forms, Arthur packets and locally/globally generic representations, Eisenstein cohomology, special values of L-functions, algebraic modular forms, p-adic modular forms, arithmetic theta functions, endoscopy and CAP representations, and proofs of the Gross-Prasad conjecture and the local Langlands conjecture for GL(n). The group of participants was notably broad in terms of nationality and age and the meeting confirmed the continued vigor of research in the field of automorphic representations.
Geometric Numerical Integration
Authors: Hairer Ernst , Hochbruck Marlis , Iserles Arieh , Lubich Christian
Published: September 2011

The subject of this workshop was numerical methods that preserve geometric properties of the flow of an ordinary or partial differential equation. This was complemented by the question as to how structure preservation affects the long-time behaviour of numerical methods.
Numerical Study of a 3D Two-Phase PEM Fuel Cell Model Via a Novel Automated Finite Element/Finite Volume Program Generator
Authors: Sun Pengtao , Zhou Su , Hu Qiya , Liang Guoping
Published: September 2011

Numerical methods of a 3D multiphysics, two-phase transport model of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is studied in this paper. Due to the coexistence of multiphase regions, the standard finite element/finite volume method may fail to obtain a convergent nonlinear iteration for a two-phase transport model of PEMFC [49,50]. By introducing Kirchhoff transformation technique and a combined finite element-upwind finite volume approach, we efficiently achieve a fast convergence and reasonable solutions for this multiphase, multiphysics PEMFC model. Numerical implementation is done by using a novel automated finite element/finite volume program generator (FEPG). By virtue of a high-level algorithm description language (script), component programming and human intelligence technologies, FEPG can quickly generate finite element/finite volume source code for PEMFC simulation. Thus, one can focus on the efficient algorithm research without being distracted by the tedious computer programming on finite element/finite volume methods. Numerical success confirms that FEPG is an efficient tool for both algorithm research and software development of a 3D, multiphysics PEMFC model with multicomponent and multiphase mechanism.
An Adaptive Moving Mesh Method for Two-Dimensional Relativistic Hydrodynamics
Authors: He Peng , Tang Huazhong
Published: September 2011

This paper extends the adaptive moving mesh method developed by Tang and Tang [36] to two-dimensional (2D) relativistic hydrodynamic (RHD) equations. The algorithm consists of two “independent” parts: the time evolution of the RHD equations and the (static) mesh iteration redistribution. In the first part, the RHD equations are discretized by using a high resolution finite volume scheme on the fixed but nonuniform meshes without the full characteristic decomposition of the governing equations. The second part is an iterative procedure. In each iteration, the mesh points are first redistributed, and then the cell averages of the conservative variables are remapped onto the new mesh in a conservative way. Several numerical examples are given to demonstrate the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Degenerate Anisotropic Elliptic Problems and Magnetized Plasma Simulations
Authors: Brull Stéphane , Degond Pierre , Deluzet Fabrice
Published: September 2011

This paper is devoted to the numerical approximation of a degenerate anisotropic elliptic problem. The numerical method is designed for arbitrary space-dependent anisotropy directions and does not require any specially adapted coordinate system. It is also designed to be equally accurate in the strongly and the mildly anisotropic cases. The method is applied to the Euler-Lorentz system, in the drift-fluid limit. This system provides a model for magnetized plasmas.
Diffusion of Electronic Health Records and electronic communication in Norway
Authors: Grimsmo A. , Faxvaag A. , Heimly V.
Published: September 2011

Objective: To assess the diffusion of Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems over time in Norwegian health care.

Methods: This study was based on a retrospective cross-sectional questionnaire survey. Questionnaires for three groups of responders were based on two validated questionnaires from prior studies, which were further customized through workshops. The questionnaires were sent to a random sample of 180 municipalities and 150 general practices in all 26 hospitals in Norway.

Results: The diffusion curves for EHR systems from 1980 to 2008 were established and analyzed. The most striking finding was the length of time from the availability of the first adequate EHR systems until full coverage was achieved in general practice and in hospitals. Diffusion of EHRs into nursing homes and maternal and child health centers started ten years later, and the diffusion for these centers has also been slow. In general practice the diffusion seems to follow the classical s-curve of diffusion. Costs and the increasing complexity of EHR systems were regarded by respondents as the most important challenges and concerns for the future. Resistance among health personnel was seen only as a small problem.

Conclusion: National strategic processes account for the slow diffusion and complexity of EHR systems in the health sector.
Chemical aging of m-xylene secondary organic aerosol: laboratory chamber study
Authors: Loza C. L. , Chhabra P. S. , Yee L. D. , Craven J. S. , Flagan R. C. , Seinfeld J. H.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Secondary organic aerosol (SOA) can reside in the atmosphere for a week or more. While its initial formation from the gas-phase oxidation of volatile organic compounds tends to take place in the first few hours after emission, SOA can continue to evolve chemically over its atmospheric lifetime. Simulating this chemical aging over an extended time in the laboratory has proven to be challenging. We present here a procedure for studying SOA aging in laboratory chambers that is applied to achieve 36 h of oxidation. The formation and evolution of SOA from the photooxidation of m-xylene under low-NOx conditions and in the presence of either neutral or acidic seed particles is studied. In SOA aging, increasing molecular functionalization leads to less volatile products and an increase in SOA mass, whereas gas-phase or particle-phase fragmentation chemistry results in more volatile products and a loss of SOA. The challenge is to discern from measured chamber variables the extent to which these processes are important for a given SOA system. In the experiments conducted, m-xylene SOA mass increased over the initial 12-h of photooxidation and decreased beyond that time. The oxidation of the SOA, as manifested in the O:C elemental ratio and fraction of organic ion detected at m/z 44 measured by the Aerodyne aerosol mass spectrometer, decreased during the first 5 h of reaction, reached a minimum, and then increased continuously until the 36 h termination. This behavior is consistent with an initial period in which, as the mass of SOA increases, products of higher volatility partition to the aerosol phase, followed by an aging period in which gas- and particle-phase reaction products become increasingly more oxidized. After about 12–13 h, the SOA mass reaches a maximum and decreases, suggesting the existence of fragmentation chemistry. When irradiation is stopped 12.4 h into one experiment, and OH generation ceases, no loss of SOA is observed, indicating that the loss of SOA is either light- or OH-induced. Chemical ionization mass spectrometry measurements of low-volatility m-xylene oxidation products exhibit behavior indicative of continuous photooxidation chemistry. A condensed chemical mechanism of m-xylene oxidation under low-NOx conditions is capable of reproducing the general behavior of gas-phase evolution observed here. Moreover, order of magnitude analysis of the mechanism suggests that gas-phase OH reaction of low volatility SOA precursors is the dominant pathway of aging in the m-xylene system although OH reaction with particle surfaces cannot be ruled out.
Aerosol classification using airborne High Spectral Resolution Lidar measurements – methodology and examples
Authors: Burton S. P. , Ferrare R. A. , Hostetler C. A. , Hair J. W. , Rogers R. R. , Obland M. D. , Butler C. F. , Cook A. L. , Harper D. B. , Froyd K. D.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. The NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) airborne High Spectral Resolution Lidar (HSRL) on the NASA B200 aircraft has acquired extensive datasets of aerosol extinction (532 nm), aerosol optical thickness (AOT) (532 nm), backscatter (532 and 1064 nm), and depolarization (532 and 1064 nm) profiles during 18 field missions that have been conducted over North America since 2006. The lidar measurements of aerosol intensive parameters (lidar ratio, depolarization, backscatter color ratio, and spectral depolarization ratio) are shown to vary with location and aerosol type. A methodology based on observations of known aerosol types is used to qualitatively classify the extensive set of HSRL aerosol measurements into eight separate types. Several examples are presented showing how the aerosol intensive parameters vary with aerosol type and how these aerosols are classified according to this new methodology. The HSRL-based classification reveals vertical variability of aerosol types during the NASA ARCTAS field experiment conducted over Alaska and northwest Canada during 2008. In two examples derived from flights conducted during ARCTAS, the HSRL classification of biomass burning smoke is shown to be consistent with aerosol types derived from coincident airborne in situ measurements of particle size and composition. The HSRL retrievals of AOT and inferences of aerosol types are used to apportion AOT to aerosol type; results of this analysis are shown for several experiments.