bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of mass, cosmological constant and Kerr parameter of different galaxies using geodesic motion in Kerr-de Sitter space-time
Authors: Poudel PC , Khanal U
Published: September 2012

In the present work, geodesic trajectories in Kerr-de Sitter geometry is used to fit the rotation curve of galaxies and estimate the values of mass M, Kerr parameter a, and cosmological constant  Ë. In this work, non-linear least square fitting of rotational velocity is used to estimate the some of the parameters. These estimates are mass in the range of (0.12±0.02) x1010 M to (70.37±11.26) x1010 M, the Kerr parameter in the range of  (0.7044±0.1127) to (0.9990±0.1598), and the cosmological constant in the range  of (1.790±0.286) x10-49 km-2 to (7.523±1.204) x10-42 km-2 for positive value of Ë while - (3.983±0.637) x10-41 km-2 to - (1.860±0.298) x10-42km-2 for negative value of Ë. The negative Ë values are found only for some galaxies with large recessional velocity. This suggests that the transition from anti-de-Sitter to de-Sitter phase with the deposition of vacuum energy may have occurred between the formation of these different galaxies. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6852
Photometry of Betelgeuse from the National Observatory, Nagarkot, Nepal
Authors: Koju RK , Aryal B , Shahi SR
Published: September 2012

Analyzing the visual flux collected by 16 inch Meade LX200GPS telescope placed at National Observatory, Nagarkot, Nepal in FITS format, we noticed a significant asymmetrical feature along the southern region of red giant Betelgeuse. The symmetrical feature is deviated widely when moving from inner to outer layer particularly in the southern direction. The southern region is expanded outward while the northern region is compressed. The region lying in the other two direction remains in intermediate. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p7-12 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6853
Allele Frequencies of 15 AmpFISTR Identifiler loci in the Nepalese population
Authors: Jha Dinesh Kumar , Gonzalez Luis Javier Martinez , Rijal Jiwan Prasad , Tuladhar Bhinu Shova , Chhetri Nirajan Thapa
Published: September 2012

Allele frequencies for the 15 STR loci in the AmpFlSTR® Identifiler® and statistical parameters were estimated from a sample of 233 unrelated individuals from different area of Nepal. A total of 161 alleles were found, with corresponding allelic frequencies ranging from 0.0021 to 0.4077. The MP, PD, PIC, PE, TPI, Ho and He ranged from 0.0282 to 0.1511, 0.8489 to 0.9717, 0.6478 to 0.8700, 0.4546 to 0.7631, 1.7651 to 4.3148, 0.7167 to 0.8841 and 0.7009 to 0.8833 respectively. Deviations from the Hardy–Weinberg Equilibrium were observed for D16S539, D18S51, D21S11 and TPOX Markers. One new allele has been detected in the process. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p20-23 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6856
Investigation on coagulation efficiency of polyaluminium silicate chloride (PASiC) coagulant
Authors: Gyawali G , Rajbhandari (Nyachhyon) A
Published: September 2012

Polyaluminium silicate chloride (PASiC) coagulant was synthesized by co-polymerization technique using aluminium salt and polysilicic acid at different OH/Al and Al/Si molar ratios. A synthetic turbid sample was used to investigate the coagulation efficiency of the prepared coagulant. After the coagulant dosing, flocculation time was set for 15 minutes followed by sedimentation for 20 minutes.  High performance of coagulant was achieved at 2.5 molar ratio of OH/Al and 5 molar ratio of Al/Si at the optimal pH. The optimum pH range was found to be 7±0.5.The effective coagulant dose for the efficient removal of turbidity was set as 2.5 mg/L. As compared to conventional alum, PASiC has been found to be excellent inorganic polymeric coagulant for turbidity removal from water and residual aluminum was found to be minimal in comparison to conventional alum treatment. Hence, PASiC has proven the potentiality for the turbidity removal in water treatment over conventional alum. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p33-37 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6859
In-vitroculture of Ophiocordyceps sinensis (Yarsagumba) and their associated endophytic fungi of Nepal Himalaya
Authors: Baral Bikash , Maharjan Jyoti
Published: September 2012

An array of Ophiocordyceps sinensis and its associated endophytic fungi residing in the high Nepalese meadows were isolated and studied for their association and symbiotic effectiveness with the host plant. Fungi are noted to be quite common in nature and some of them have been shown to have adverse effects against insects, nematodes and plant pathogens. Out of the few isolates, different types of associated fungi with Ophiocordyceps sinensis were screened viz. Acremonium strictum, Altenaria solani, Aspergillus flavus, Trichoderma virens, Colletotrichum gloeosporiode, Curvularia lunata, Thielaviopsis sp. and Verticillium sp. The growth rate of the Ophiocordyceps sinensis was found to be very slow as compared to other associated fungi with the diameter of only 1 cm in 2 weeks interval. Fast growing endophytic fungi was found to be Acremonium strictum followed by Altenaria solani.  However, the maintenance of the pure culture of the Ophiocordyceps fungi is rather difficult and was soon covered up with other associated fungi. Besides, it was rather difficult to sporulate the O. sinensis in the laboratory conditions despite using specific medias. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p38-42 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6860
Isolation and screening of thermophilic cellulolytic bacteria from compost piles
Authors: Acharya A , Joshi DR , Shrestha K , Bhatta DR
Published: September 2012

Cellulose, a major polysaccharide found in agricultural residues and industrial and municipal wastes. In the present study thermophilic cellulolytic microorganisms were isolated. The isolates were tested for their cellulytic activity. The enzyme production from potent isolates was optimised using cellulose basal broth medium. Activity of partially purified enzyme was determined. The most potent thermophilic cellulolytic isolates were identified as Bacillus subtilis. The crude cellulase enzyme concentrated at 80-85% ammonium sulfate produced highest zone of hydrolysis. The enzymatic degradation of cellulose waste has been suggested as a feasible alternative for the conversion of lignocelluloses substrate into fermentable sugars and application for biofuel production. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p43-46 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6861
Park-people interface: a case study of Ayodhyapuri VDC, Chitwan, Nepal
Authors: Pant Anita , Bhata Shivraj
Published: September 2012

The study in Ayodhyapuri Village Development Committee in Buffer Zone of Chitwan National Park revealed that the main source of energy is fuel wood, most of which is supplied from Buffer Zone Community Forestry (BZCF) and Chitwan National Park (37.93%) and partially from private land (2.15%). Agriculture was main source of livelihood among the villagers. Fuel wood consumption per household was found to be 3516.11 kg per year in the study area. Landless and low-income households were found using more fuel wood from BZCF and National Park.  The root problems in the study area are the maximum extraction of fuel wood and fodder from the CF and National Park, and the crop depredation by wildlife. The depredation of the crop by wildlife is one of the major barriers influencing the conservation attitude of local people. The CF is rich in biodiversity as revealed by presence of 36 species of trees, 54 species of shrubs and 66 species of herbs. Shorea robusta is the most dominating species in both trees and shrub strata whereas Imperata cylindrica is the most frequent herbaceous species. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p47-53 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6862
Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants of Resunga hill used by Magar community of Badagaun VDC, Gulmi district, Nepal
Authors: Acharya Rajendra
Published: September 2012

Present study aims to explore the ethnobotanical information on medicinal plants used by Magar community of Badagaun VDC of Gulmi district. The study was carried out during different periods of the year 2010. Informations on plant and plant parts uses were collected interviewing key informants by using semi-structured open-ended questionnaire. Altogether 161 different plant species belonging to 87 familes and 144 genera were documented and majority of them are herbs. In terms of plant parts use, leaf and stem/bark are in top priorities. These plants are used to treat different ailments ranging from gastro-intestinal to headache and fever, respiratory tract related problems to dermatological problems, snake bite to ophthalmic and cuts and wounds. Easy access to modern medicines and less recognition of traditional healers are the main causes leading to decrease in interest of young generation in the use of traditional medicinal practices. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p54-65 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6863
Effect of mycorrhizal soil and green manures on growth of Ipil Ipil (Leucaena diversifolia L.)
Authors: Bhattarai Nabin , Vaidya Geeta Shrestha , Baral Bikash
Published: September 2012

A pot trial research work of powder of Lantana camara L., Eupatorium adenophorum Spreng. and mycorrhizal soil on growth of Ipil Ipil (Leucaena diversifolia L.) fodder plant was conducted. Fifty gram of each green manure in powder form and mycorrhizal soil were used in each pot. Including control, altogether four treatments were made and each has fifty replicates. The treatment with green manure from Lantana camara showed maximum growth, survival and germination of the plants with maximum average length of 21.25 cm and 37.96 cm respectively, followed by Eupatorium adenophorum (16.51 cm and 23.46 cm) which was statistically significant (P < 0.05).  Survival of plants was higher Lantana camara. Number of mycorrhizal spores, soil bulk density and water holding capacity was higher in Lantana treated soil followed by Eupatorium adenophorum, Mycorrhizal soil and control. The nutrient status of the soil improved than the eroded soil. The soil sample treated with Eupatorium adenophorum showed the maximum percentage of organic matter, potash, phosphorus and nitrogen content i.e. 1.95, 58.14, 13.65, 0.17, respectively followed by Lantana, mycorrhiza and control. The green manures prepared from these plants and mycorrhizal soil can be used for the growth of plants which improves the nutrient status of soil and increases the mycorrhizal biomass stabilizing the eroded and land slided area. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p66-69 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6864
Effect of nitrogen on physical and optical properties of carbon films prepared by microwave plasma CVD for photovoltaic solar cells
Authors: Adhikary Sunil
Published: September 2012

Nitrogen doped amorphous carbon thin films were deposited on silicon and quartz substrates by microwave surface-wave plasma chemical vapour deposition (MW SWP CVD) to investigate effect of nitrogen on properties of the carbon films. Deposition rate of the films found in the range of 5-7.5 nm/min. Optical band gap of the films decreased from 3.3 eV to 2.3 eV corresponding to the increase of nitrogen flow rates from 0 to 10 sccm. RMS roughness of the undoped and Ndoped films was found to be 0.5 nm and 0.55 nm respectively suggesting that the amorphous carbon films deposited by MW SWP CVD are smooth. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p77-79 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6867
Preparation of activated charcoal adsorbent from waste tire
Authors: Barai Drona Raj , Jha Vinay Kumar
Published: September 2012

Activated carbons were prepared from waste tire in two different routes. Some physical properties of thus prepared activated carbons were measured and the characterization of their phases was done by XRD measurement. The adsorption isotherms of methylene blue were simulated by the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. The Langmuir isotherms were found to have better fitting with Qmax values 0.227, 0.255 and 0.256 mmol/g for the activated carbons prepared in air, nitrogen, nitrogen and steam respectively while it was 0.275 mmol/g for activated carbon impregnated with H3 PO4 . The overall reaction was found to be pseudo-second order with the rate constant of 8.314 × 10-4 Lg/(mmolmin). The surface area of the best prepared activated carbon was 334.2 m2 /g. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p80-83 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6868
Aroma profile of Eucalyptus globulus: collected from North West Karnataka, India
Authors: Joshi RK
Published: September 2012

The chemical composition of the essential oil of the leaves of Eucalyptus globulus (Myrtaceae) grown in North West Karnataka, has been analyzed by GC and GC/MS.  Forty-eight constituents were identified, accounting 97.93% of the total oil. The major compounds were á-phellandrene (40.31%), á-pinene (13.71%), â-pinene (13.31%), ã-terpinene (9.61%) and 1,8-cineol (4.96%). The oil was rich in monoterpene hydrocarbons (81.14%). Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p89-90 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6870
Solid–liquid equilibria, physicochemical and microstructural studies of binary organic eutectic alloy: urea + 2-aminobenzothiazole system
Authors: Sharma Krishna Prasad , Shakya Pawan Raj , Rai Ramananda
Published: September 2012

Phase diagram of binary organic system of urea (U) with 2-aminobenzothiazole (ABT) shows the formation of a eutectic at 0.350 mole fraction of urea. Growth kinetics of the eutectic and pure components studied by measuring the rate of movement of solid-liquid interface in a thin glass U-tube at different undercoolings (ÄT) suggests the applicability of HilligTurnbull’s equation:  v = u (ÄT) n. The thermodynamic functions such as heat of mixing, entropy of fusion, roughness parameter, interfacial energy and excess thermodynamic functions were calculated from the enthalpy of fusion values, obtained from DSC data. The optical microphotographs of pure and eutectic alloy show their characteristic features. Scientific World, Vol. 10, No. 10, July 2012 p91-94 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/sw.v10i10.6871
Posttraumatic skull hemangioma
Authors: Haeren Roel H. L. , Dings Jim , Hoeberigs M. Christianne , Riedl Robert G. , Rijkers Kim
Published: September 2012

Intraosseous cavernous hemangiomas of the skull are rare lesions for which the origin is unclear. The authors present a case in which there was a radiologically documented history of trauma preceding the development of a hemangioma in the frontal bone.

In a review of the literature the authors found 83 cases of skull hemangiomas, and 43% of the lesions were located in the frontal bone. In 25% of these lesions, previous trauma was reported anamnestically. The present case and radiological findings related to it suggest a causal relationship between trauma and the development of intraosseous hemangioma.
Effect of slosh mitigation on histologic markers of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Turner Ryan C. , Naser Zachary J. , Bailes Julian E. , Smith David W. , Fisher Joseph A. , Rosen Charles L.
Published: September 2012

Object

Helmets successfully prevent most cranial fractures and skull traumas, but traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concussions continue to occur with frightening frequency despite the widespread use of helmets on the athletic field and battlefield. Protection against such injury is needed. The object of this study was to determine if slosh mitigation reduces neural degeneration, gliosis, and neuroinflammation.

Methods

Two groups of 10 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to impact-acceleration TBI. One group of animals was fitted with a collar inducing internal jugular vein (IJV) compression prior to injury, whereas the second group received no such collar prior to injury. All rats were killed 7 days postinjury, and the brains were fixed and embedded in paraffin. Tissue sections were processed and stained for markers of neural degeneration (Fluoro-Jade B), gliosis (glial fibrillary acidic protein), and neuroinflammation (ionized calcium binding adapter molecule 1).

Results

Compared with the controls, animals that had undergone IJV compression had a 48.7%–59.1% reduction in degenerative neurons, a 36.8%–45.7% decrease in reactive astrocytes, and a 44.1%–65.3% reduction in microglial activation.

Conclusions

The authors concluded that IJV compression, a form of slosh mitigation, markedly reduces markers of neurological injury in a common model of TBI. Based on findings in this and other studies, slosh mitigation may have potential for preventing TBI in the clinical population.
Intrathecal baclofen therapy—how we do it
Authors: Ammar Amr , Ughratdar Ismail , Sivakumar Gnanamurthy , Vloeberghs Michael H.
Published: September 2012

Intrathecal baclofen has become an invaluable tool to treat spasticity of various etiologies. Children who benefit from intrathecal baclofen are often significantly underweight due to underlying disease pathology, and they lack adequate soft-tissue mass to effectively provide cover to the pump. Thus, in this population, subfascial implantation is favored over the subcutaneous technique in view of the high frequency of wound dehiscence and subsequent explantation of the pump associated with the latter method.

The authors describe and review their unit's adapted subfascial implantation technique that has been performed over a period of 10 years in 182 children. This technique provides better tissue coverage for the pump and has resulted in lowering the risk of complications as compared with the subcutaneous technique.
Electrocorticographic evidence of perituberal cortex epileptogenicity in tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Ma Tracy S. , Elliott Robert E. , Ruppe Véronique , Devinsky Orrin , Kuzniecky Ruben , Weiner Howard L. , Carlson Chad
Published: September 2012

Object

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a multisystem autosomal dominant disorder resulting in hamartomas of several organs. Cortical tubers are the most prominent brain lesions in TSC. Treatment-resistant epilepsy often develops early in life in patients with TSC and is associated with severe intellectual and behavioral impairments. Seizures may remit following epilepsy surgery in selected cases, yet it remains unclear whether the tuber or the perituberal cortex is the source of seizure onset. In this study, the authors reviewed the onset of seizures in patients in whom depth electrodes had been placed within or adjacent to cortical tubers.

Methods

After obtaining institutional review board approval, the authors retrospectively reviewed data from 12 pediatric patients with multifocal TSC and treatment-resistant epilepsy who had undergone invasive intracranial electroencephalographic monitoring. Tubers were identified on postimplantation MRI, and all depth electrodes were located. Depth electrode contacts were classified visually as either tuber/perituberal cortex or nontuber/nonperituberal cortex. Board-certified clinical neurophysiologists reviewed the seizures to identify all electrodes involved in the ictal onset.

Results

Among 309 recorded seizures, 104 unique ictal onset patterns were identified. Of the 11 patients with electrodes recording in a tuber, 9 had seizure onsets involving the tuber. Similarly, of the 9 patients with perituberal recording electrodes, 7 had perituberal ictal onsets. Overall, there was no difference in the percentage of contacts involved in seizure onset between the tuber and perituberal cortex. In a subset of 7 patients in whom at least 1 depth electrode contact was within the tuber and 1 was in the perituberal cortex, there was no difference between the percentage of tuber and perituberal onsets.

Conclusions

Findings demonstrated heterogeneity in the ictal onset patterns as well as involvement of the tuber and perituberal cortex within and between patients. Although the data are limited by the restricted region(s) sampled with intracranial electrodes, they do suggest that cortical hyperexcitability in TSC may derive from the tuber or surrounding cortex.
Changes in the Oswestry Disability Index that predict improvement after lumbar fusion
Authors: Djurasovic Mladen , Glassman Steven D. , Dimar John R. , Crawford Charles H. , Bratcher Kelly R. , Carreon Leah Y.
Published: September 2012

Object

Clinical studies use both disease-specific and generic health outcomes measures. Disease-specific measures focus on health domains most relevant to the clinical population, while generic measures assess overall health-related quality of life. There is little information about which domains of the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) are most important in determining improvement in overall health-related quality of life, as measured by the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), after lumbar spinal fusion. The objective of the study is to determine which clinical elements assessed by the ODI most influence improvement of overall health-related quality of life.

Methods

A single tertiary spine center database was used to identify patients undergoing lumbar fusion for standard degenerative indications. Patients with complete preoperative and 2-year outcomes measures were included. Pearson correlation was used to assess the relationship between improvement in each item of the ODI with improvement in the SF-36 physical component summary (PCS) score, as well as achievement of the SF-36 PCS minimum clinically important difference (MCID). Multivariate regression modeling was used to examine which items of the ODI best predicted achievement for the SF-36 PCS MCID. The effect size and standardized response mean were calculated for each of the items of the ODI.

Results

A total of 1104 patients met inclusion criteria (674 female and 430 male patients). The mean age at surgery was 57 years. All items of the ODI showed significant correlations with the change in SF-36 PCS score and achievement of MCID for the SF-36 PCS, but only pain intensity, walking, and social life had r values > 0.4 reflecting moderate correlation. These 3 variables were also the dimensions that were independent predictors of the SF-36 PCS, and they were the only dimensions that had effect sizes and standardized response means that were moderate to large.

Conclusions

Of the health dimensions measured by the ODI, pain intensity, walking, and social life best predicted improvement in overall health-related quality of life, as measured using the SF-36 PCS.
A Revisit to the Hydrogen Desorption/Absorption Behaviors of LiAlH4/LiBH4: Effects of Catalysts
Authors: Sridechprasat Pattaraporn , Phuirot Labhatrada , Rangsunvigit Pramoch , Kitiyanan Boonyarach , Kulprathipanja Santi
Published: September 2012

The hydrogen desorption/absorption behaviors of LiAlH4/LiBH4 with a focus on the effects of catalysts, namely TiCl3, TiO2, VCl3, and ZrCl4, were investigated using a thermal-volumetric apparatus. The hydrogen desorption was performed from room temperature to 300 °C with a heating rate of 2 °C min−1. The LiAlH4–LiBH4 mixture with a molar ratio of 2:1 decomposed between 100 and 220 °C, and the hydrogen desorption capacity reached up to 6.6 wt %. Doping 1 mol % of a catalyst to the mixture resulted in the two-step decomposition and a decrease in the hydrogen desorption temperature. All the doped samples provided lower amountz of desorbed hydrogen than that obtained from the undoped one. No hydrogen absorption was observed under 8.5 MPa of hydrogen pressure and 300 °C for 6 h. Despite the fact each of the catalysts may affect the hydrogen storage behaviors of the mixture differently, none resulted in a change in the sample reversibility.
When the Social Meets the Semantic: Social Semantic Web or Web 2.5
Authors: Pileggi Salvatore F. , Fernandez-Llatas Carlos , Traver Vicente
Published: September 2012

The social trend is progressively becoming the key feature of current Web understanding (Web 2.0). This trend appears irrepressible as millions of users, directly or indirectly connected through social networks, are able to share and exchange any kind of content, information, feeling or experience. Social interactions radically changed the user approach. Furthermore, the socialization of content around social objects provides new unexplored commercial marketplaces and business opportunities. On the other hand, the progressive evolution of the web towards the Semantic Web (or Web 3.0) provides a formal representation of knowledge based on the meaning of data. When the social meets semantics, the social intelligence can be formed in the context of a semantic environment in which user and community profiles as well as any kind of interaction is semantically represented (Semantic Social Web). This paper first provides a conceptual analysis of the second and third version of the Web model. That discussion is aimed at the definition of a middle concept (Web 2.5) resulting in the convergence and integration of key features from the current and next generation Web. The Semantic Social Web (Web 2.5) has a clear theoretical meaning, understood as the bridge between the overused Web 2.0 and the not yet mature Semantic Web (Web 3.0).
Methyl 2-Benzamido-2-(1H-benzimidazol-1-ylmethoxy)acetate
Authors: El Houssine Mabrouk , Abdelrhani Elachqar , Abdelilah El Hallaoui , Anouar Alami
Published: September 2012

The heterocyclic carboxylic α-aminoester methyl 2-benzamido-2-(1H-benzimidazol-1-ylmethoxy)acetate is obtained by O-alkylation of methyl α-azido glycinate N-benzoylated with 1H-benzimidazol-1-ylmethanol.
Isolation and Characterization of a Lycopene ε-Cyclase Gene of Chlorella (Chromochloris) zofingiensis. Regulation of the Carotenogenic Pathway by Nitrogen and Light
Authors: Cordero Baldo F. , Couso Inmaculada , Leon Rosa , Rodriguez Herminia , Vargas Maria Angeles
Published: September 2012

The isolation and characterization of the lycopene ε-cyclase gene from the green microalga Chlorella (Chromochloris) zofingiensis (Czlcy-e) was performed. This gene is involved in the formation of the carotenoids α-carotene and lutein. Czlcy-e gene encoded a polypeptide of 654 amino acids. A single copy of Czlcy-e was found in C. zofingiensis. Functional analysis by heterologous complementation in Escherichia coli showed the ability of this protein to convert lycopene to δ-carotene. In addition, the regulation of the carotenogenic pathway by light and nitrogen was also studied in C. zofingiensis. High irradiance stress did not increase mRNA levels of neither lycopene β-cyclase gene (lcy-b) nor lycopene ε-cyclase gene (lcy-e) as compared with low irradiance conditions, whereas the transcript levels of psy, pds, chyB and bkt genes were enhanced, nevertheless triggering the synthesis of the secondary carotenoids astaxanthin, canthaxanthin and zeaxanthin and decreasing the levels of the primary carotenoids α-carotene, lutein, violaxanthin and β-carotene. Nitrogen starvation per se enhanced mRNA levels of all genes considered, except lcy-e and pds, but did not trigger the synthesis of astaxanthin, canthaxanthin nor zeaxanthin. The combined effect of both high light and nitrogen starvation stresses enhanced significantly the accumulation of these carotenoids as well as the transcript levels of bkt gene, as compared with the effect of only high irradiance stress.
Influence of Sample Processing on the Analysis of Carotenoids in Maize
Authors: Rivera Sol , Canela Ramon
Published: September 2012

We performed a number of tests with the aim to develop an effective extraction method for the analysis of carotenoid content in maize seed. Mixtures of methanol–ethyl acetate (6:4, v/v) and methanol–tetrahydrofuran (1:1, v/v) were the most effective solvent systems for carotenoid extraction from maize endosperm under the conditions assayed. In addition, we also addressed sample preparation prior to the analysis of carotenoids by liquid chromatography (LC). The LC response of extracted carotenoids and standards in several solvents was evaluated and results were related to the degree of solubility of these pigments. Three key factors were found to be important when selecting a suitable injection solvent: compatibility between the mobile phase and injection solvent, carotenoid polarity and content in the matrix.
In Vitro Antioxidant Properties of Flavonoids and Polysaccharides Extract from Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) Leaves
Authors: Ru Qiao-Mei , Wang Li-Juan , Li Wei-Ming , Wang Jing-Lu , Ding Yu-Ting
Published: September 2012

In the present study, antioxidant properties of flavonoids and polysaccharides from tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) leaves were evaluated in several in vitro systems, e.g., scavenging activities on hydroxyl, superoxide anion, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radicals, and reducing power. Flavonoids showed much better activity than polysaccharides in scavenging activities on free radicals. When compared to the positive control, ascorbic acid, both showed weaker antioxidant potential. However, flavonoids possessed comparable superoxide anion, DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging abilities to ascorbic acid at high concentration (600 μg/mL). Meanwhile, it was found that flavonoids had prominent effects on the reducing power, which was equivalent to ascorbic acid, and was significantly higher than polysaccharides. These results clearly indicate that flavonoids are effective in scavenging free radicals and have the potential to be powerful antioxidants. Thus, tobacco leaves could be considered as a potential source of natural antioxidants for food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics or nutraceutical industries.
Uncovering Viral Protein-Protein Interactions and their Role in Arenavirus Life Cycle
Authors: Loureiro Maria Eugenia , D’Antuono Alejandra , Levingston Macleod Jesica M. , López Nora
Published: September 2012

The Arenaviridae family includes widely distributed pathogens that cause severe hemorrhagic fever in humans. Replication and packaging of their single-stranded RNA genome involve RNA recognition by viral proteins and a number of key protein-protein interactions. Viral RNA synthesis is directed by the virus-encoded RNA dependent-RNA polymerase (L protein) and requires viral RNA encapsidation by the Nucleoprotein. In addition to the role that the interaction between L and the Nucleoprotein may have in the replication process, polymerase activity appears to be modulated by the association between L and the small multifunctional Z protein. Z is also a structural component of the virions that plays an essential role in viral morphogenesis. Indeed, interaction of the Z protein with the Nucleoprotein is critical for genome packaging. Furthermore, current evidence suggests that binding between Z and the viral envelope glycoprotein complex is required for virion infectivity, and that Z homo-oligomerization is an essential step for particle assembly and budding. Efforts to understand the molecular basis of arenavirus life cycle have revealed important details on these viral protein-protein interactions that will be reviewed in this article.
Emerging Themes from EBV and KSHV microRNA Targets
Authors: Ramalingam Dhivya , Kieffer-Kwon Philippe , Ziegelbauer Joseph M.
Published: September 2012

EBV and KSHV are both gamma-herpesviruses which express multiple viral microRNAs. Various methods have been used to investigate the functions of these microRNAs, largely through identification of microRNA target genes. Surprisingly, these related viruses do not share significant sequence homology in their microRNAs. A number of reports have described functions of EBV and KSHV microRNA targets, however only three experimentally validated target genes have been shown to be targeted by microRNAs from both viruses. More sensitive methods to identify microRNA targets have predicted approximately 60% of host targets could be shared by EBV and KSHV microRNAs, but by targeting different sequences in the host targets. In this review, we explore the similarities of microRNA functions and targets of these related viruses.
Automated synthesis of sialylated oligosaccharides
Authors: Esposito Davide , Hurevich Mattan , Castagner Bastien , Wang Cheng-Chung , Seeberger Peter H
Published: September 2012

Sialic acid-containing glycans play a major role in cell-surface interactions with external partners such as cells and viruses. Straightforward access to sialosides is required in order to study their biological functions on a molecular level. Here, automated oligosaccharide synthesis was used to facilitate the preparation of this class of biomolecules. Our strategy relies on novel sialyl α-(2→3) and α-(2→6) galactosyl imidates, which, used in combination with the automated platform, provided rapid access to a small library of conjugation-ready sialosides of biological relevance.
Antiviral Drug Development – Success and Failure: A Personal Perspective with a Japanese Connection
Authors: De Clercq Erik
Published: September 2012

At the 25th International Conference on Antiviral Research, I received a special recognition for my contribution to the International Society of Antiviral Research over a period of 25 years (from 1987 until 2012). This review follows the theme of my presentation at that event, which comprised 10 reminiscences, all with a Japanese connection concerning the success, or otherwise, in the clinical development of: double- and single-stranded polynucleotides; suramin, a polysulfonate; dextran sulfate, a polysulfate; brivudin; BVaraU; 2′,3′-dideoxynucleoside analogues; HEPT; adefovir and tenofovir; CXCR4 antagonists; and elvitegravir.
Jalons pour une histoire des États face à la contrainte économique
Authors: Gazier Bernard
Published: September 2012

Résumé Cet article cherche, en se centrant sur l’expérience des États occidentaux et en prenant un recul historique de plusieurs siècles, à préciser les principales contraintes économiques auxquelles ils ont fait face et les marges de manœuvre qu’ils ont pu exploiter. Après une première partie consacrée au repérage des diverses modalités d’États et de contraintes, l’article considère les séquences dans lesquelles les contraintes s’enchaînent, pour déboucher sur les changements majeurs apparus au xx e  siècle.
L'État : contraintes et liberté, approche économique
Authors: Bacache-Beauvallet Maya
Published: September 2012

Résumé L’article présente l’analyse en sciences économiques des contraintes qui limitent l’action de l’État. La contrainte budgétaire consiste à rappeler que la somme des dépenses publiques doit être inférieure ou égale aux recettes publiques, et ce de manière intertemporelle. L’article évoque alors les débats qui émergent avec les travaux keynésiens sur l’importance de cette contrainte budgétaire et la possibilité de s’en émanciper. La prise en compte des anticipations rationnelles des agents restreint l’action publique et crée la justification d’une nouvelle contrainte : l’autocontrainte. Ensuite, la concurrence fiscale et la mondialisation constituent une nouvelle contrainte à l’action publique. Enfin, le nouveau management public renouvelle l’analyse de la contrainte aux marges de manœuvre de l’État.
La marge de manœuvre des États. La dictature des marchés ?
Authors: Kessler Denis
Published: September 2012

Résumé La crise des dettes souveraines qui s’est aiguisée au cours de ces dernières années a fait réapparaître le thème de la dictature des marchés. Derrière celui-ci se cache une longue liste de reproches : les marchés auraient pour seul objectif la spéculation, ils seraient myopes et court-termistes, ils fonderaient leurs décisions sur la base de notations émises par des agences irresponsables et ils exerceraient une pression inadmissible sur les pays emprunteurs. En un mot, ils bafoueraient la démocratie. La plupart de ces critiques ne résistent pas à l’analyse. Elles découlent largement du besoin des gouvernements de désigner un bouc émissaire face à la réticence des citoyens à accepter des efforts. Ceux-ci paraissent d’autant plus injustes à l’opinion publique qu’ils visent à rembourser des dettes dont les citoyens ne se sentent pas individuellement responsables. Il n’en demeure pas moins vrai que, en menant des politiques budgétaires insoutenables, les États se sont eux-mêmes placés dans une situation de dépendance vis-à-vis des marchés conduisant à certains égards à une situation d’inversion de la tutelle.
The Experience of Hope and Aging: A Hermeneutic Photography Study
Authors: Moore Sharon L.
Published: September 2012

The purpose of this hermeneutic photography study was to explore how older adults lived hope in their day-to-day lives. A purposive sample of 12 older adults 65 and older was asked to photograph how they experienced and lived hope in their everyday lives. Participants were asked to select four to five photographs that best reflected their “lived hope,” and these photographs were used as prompts for subsequent interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis of the interviews and photographs, which revealed that these study participants lived a philosophy of hope in which hope provided a kind of landscape through which these older adults lived and made sense of their life experiences. Implications for helping nurses foster and make hope more visible for their older clients are suggested.
Understanding Bereaved Family Members’ Dissatisfaction with End-of-Life Care in Nursing Homes
Authors: Thompson Genevieve N. , McClement Susan E. , Menec Verena H. , Chochinov Harvey M.
Published: September 2012

With increasing numbers of older adults identifying a nursing home (NH) as their final place of care, it is important to assess the quality of dying in this setting and understand factors that impact family members’ dissatisfaction with end-of-life care. A retrospective bereaved family member survey (
N
= 208) was conducted in 21 NHs located in urban areas of central Canada. Bereaved family members who were dissatisfied with care identified significantly more concerns in all domains assessed and were more likely to have problems with: (a) receiving confusing information from nursing staff about the resident’s care, including medical treatments; (b) receiving inadequate information from nursing staff; and (c) feeling that end-of-life care was different than they had expected. Since the quality of communication between nurses, residents, and family members is the main factor that determines families’ dissatisfaction with care, strategies and interventions aimed at reducing unmet information needs will be vital to improving end-of-life care in NHs.
Treatment of Alcohol-Dependent College Students
Authors: McGuinness Teena M. , Kelly Terri Ann
Published: September 2012

A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted that excessive alcohol consumption is responsible for more than 4,600 deaths in underage youth annually. Alcohol abuse is common among college-age youth and may progress to alcohol dependence, which includes tolerance, craving, physical dependence, and loss of control. Although treatment for alcohol dependence is effective, like all other chronic disorders, relapse is common. The purpose of this article is to examine the issues surrounding alcohol abuse and dependence as well as maintaining sobriety in light of the high-risk college student drinking environment.
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Two Protocols for Treating Nursing Home Residents with Advanced Dementia
Authors: Kovach Christine R. , Simpson Michelle R. , Joosse Laura , Logan Brent R. , Noonan Patricia E. , Reynolds Sheila A. , Woods Diana Lynn , Raff Hershel
Published: September 2012

The Serial Trial Intervention (STI) is a decision support tool to address the problem of underassessment and undertreatment of pain and other unmet needs of people with dementia. This study compared the effectiveness of the 5-step and 9-step versions of the STI using a two-group repeated measures quasi-experimental design with randomization of 12 matched nursing homes. The sample consisted of 125 residents with moderate to severe dementia. Both the 5- and 9-step STIs significantly decreased discomfort and agitation from pre- to posttest (effect sizes = 0.45 to 0.90). The 9-step version was more effective for comorbid burden and increased cortisol slope (effect sizes = 0.50 and 0.49). Process variables were all statistically significantly improved using the 9-step STI. Nurse time was not different between the two groups. The clinical decision support rules embedded in the STI, particularly the 9-step version, helped nurses change practice and improved resident outcomes.
Complementary/Alternative Therapy Use in Older Women with Arthritis
Authors: Cheung Corjena
Published: September 2012

The purpose of this study was to describe the experiences of using complementary/alternative therapy (C/AT) in community-dwelling older women with arthritis. A descriptive qualitative approach using focus groups for data collection was conducted with a purposive sample of 27 older female C/AT users (mean age = 77.8, range = 65 to 93). Content analysis was used to identify themes, which included (a) acceptance of the incurable nature of arthritis, (b) high use of nutritional supplements, (c) use of multiple C/AT to manage symptoms, (d) physical symptoms and limited treatment options motivated C/AT use, (e) most C/AT were perceived as effective, (f) C/AT knowledge was limited among users, and (g) older women did not fully disclose their C/AT use to their primary care physician. Findings revealed that older women are motivated to use C/AT, particularly nutritional supplements, to manage arthritis symptoms without seeking medical advice from their physician. Strategies are needed to improve communication between health care providers and older patients on C/AT use for optimal management of arthritis and prevention of adverse events.
Markov chain modeling of evolution of strains in reinforced concrete flexural beams
Authors: Anoop M. B. , Balaji Rao K. , Lakshmanan N. , Raghuprasad B. K.
Published: September 2012

From the analysis of experimentally observed variations in surface strains with loading in reinforced concrete beams, it is noted that there is a need to consider the evolution of strains (with loading) as a stochastic process. Use of Markov Chains for modeling stochastic evolution of strains with loading in reinforced concrete flexural beams is studied in this paper. A simple, yet practically useful, bi-level homogeneous Gaussian Markov Chain (BLHGMC) model is proposed for determining the state of strain in reinforced concrete beams. The BLHGMC model will be useful for predicting behavior/response of reinforced concrete beams leading to more rational design.
Effect of carbon nanofiber addition in the mechanical properties and durability of cementitious materials
Authors: Galao O. , Zornoza E. , Baeza F. J. , Bernabeu A. , Garcés P.
Published: September 2012

This paper reports on recent work that is directed at studying the changes in the mechanical properties of Portland cement based mortars due to the addition of carbon nanofiber (CNF). Both flexural and compression strength has been determined and related to the CNF addition to the mix, to the curing time and to the porosity and density of the matrix. Also, corrosion of embedded steel rebars in CNF cement pastes exposed to carbonation and chloride attacks has been investigated. The increase in CNF addition implies higher corrosion intensity and higher levels of mechanical properties.
Comparative Study on Acoustic Behavior Between Light Multi-layered and Traditional Façades
Authors: Ruiz L. , Delgado E. , Neila F. J. , Vega S.
Published: September 2012

Light multi-layered facade systems in general have been acoustically little studied. The data available suggests they do not usually fulfil the sound insulation values required in the Technical Building Code (CTE) in particularly in noisy environments. Therefore the main objectives of this study, is to obtain light multi-layered façade systems with a high degree of acoustic insulation that can be used in noisy environments. While in turn showing excellent thermal characteristics, without neglecting important aspects such as the sustainability of materials, industrialization, costs, among others. This article will explain the process that has been followed to carry out an investigation on the acoustic behaviour of light multi-layered facades. For this purpose acoustic behaviour and sound intensimetry measurement methods have been used. After obtaining these results, a comparison between light multi-layered and traditional facades was made.
The new european standard on common cements specifications EN 197-1:2011
Authors: Sanjuán M. A. , Argiz C.
Published: September 2012

In this paper, the novelties of European standard EN 197-1:2011 which has been aprobed on 6th August, 2011 are presented. The european standard EN 197-1:2011 has been published in the Official Journal of the European Union on 19th June, 2012 (C 176/1). The UNEEN 197-1:2011 will be published in Spain in the Official Journal of Spain (B.O.E.). The date of applicability (DAV) of the standard as a harmonised European standard is on 1st of July, 2012 and the date of the end of the coexistence period is on 1st of July, 2013.
The former EN 197-1:2000 has been the first European standard in the field of the Construction Products Directive (CPD) and this first revision include the requirements needed for a common cement to be, in addition, sulphate resisting cement. Therefore, the mandate given by the European Commission to CEN to prepare harmonised standards in the cement field (mandate M114) has been fulfilled.
Interaction between cements with different composition and superplasticizers
Authors: Ghorab H. Y. , Kenawi I. M. , Abdel All Z. G.
Published: September 2012

The slump behavior of ordinary Portland-, pozzolanic (red brick powder)-, sulfate resistant-, and limestone cement pastes caused by ≤ 1% additions of polycondensates and polycarboxylates superplasticizers are monitored for up to 90 minutes.

With the plolycondensates, Portland- and pozzolanic cements gain fluidity at higher dosages than sulfate resistant and limestone cements. Limestone cement shows the best slump retention. The aluminate and sulfate phases play a major role in the fluidity.

With the polycarboxylates, all cements gain fluidity with dosages of ≤ 0.3%. A polycarboxylate with no resonance of methyl methylene proton in the main chain identified in the NMR spectra creates good slump retention. This is explained by a low mobility of the structure and the predominance of the steric effect. The polycarboxylate shows also strong ether bands relative to the ester groups in the IR spectra and a low polydispersity observed in the elution of few low molecular weight species in the HPLC chromatogram.
Assessing the influence of surface roughness on the epilithic colonisation of limestones by non-contact techniques
Authors: Miller A. Z. , Rogerio-Candelera M. A. , Dionísio A. , Macedo M. F. , Saiz-Jiménez C.
Published: September 2012

The importance of stone colonisation by microorganisms has led to an extensive literature on mechanisms and rates of physicochemical degradation of stone surface, both in laboratory and field contexts. Biological colonisation of a stone surface depends on intrinsic stone parameters like mineral composition, texture, porosity, and permeability, as well as on environmental parameters. In the present study, quantification of stone surface roughness and its relationship to epilithic colonisation was demonstrated for three types of limestones throughout non-destructive techniques, namely optical surface roughness instrument and digital image analysis. According to the roughness average (Ra) and mean roughness depth (Rz) determined for Ançã limestone, Lioz limestone and Lecce stone, it can be concluded that great surface roughness stones render them prone to microbial colonisation.