bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A direct test of nitrogen and phosphorus limitation to net primary productivity in a lowland tropical wet forest
Authors: Alvarez-Clare S. , Mack M. C. , Brooks M.
Published: July 2013

Experimental evidence for limitation of net primary productivity (NPP) by nitrogen (N) or phosphorus (P) in lowland tropical forests is rare, and the results from the few existing studies have been inconclusive. To directly test if N or P limit NPP in a lowland tropical wet forest in Costa Rica, we conducted a full factorial fertilization experiment (4 treatments × 6 replicates in 30 × 30 m plots). We focused on the influence of tree size and taxa on nutrient limitation, because in these forests a wide variety of tree functional traits related to nutrient acquisition and use are likely to regulate biogeochemical processes. After 2.7 years, a higher percentage of trees per plot increased basal area (BA) with P additions (66.45% ± 3.28% without P vs. 76.88% ± 3.28% with P), but there were no other community‐level responses to N or P additions on BA increase, litterfall productivity, or root growth. Phosphorus additions resulted in doubled stem growth rates in small trees (5–10 cm diameter at breast height (dbh); [P ≤ 0.01]) but had no effect on intermediate (10–30 cm dbh) or large trees (>30 cm dbh). Phosphorus additions also increased the percentage of seedling survival from 59% to 78% (P < 0.01), as well as the percentage of seedlings that grew (P = 0.03), and increased leaf number (P = 0.02). Trees from Pentaclethra macroloba, the most abundant species, did not increase growth rates with fertilization (P = 0.40). In contrast, the most abundant palms (Socratea exorrhiza) had more than two times higher stem growth rates with P additions (P = 0.01). Our experiment reiterates that P availability is a significant driver of plant processes in these systems, but highlights the importance of considering different aspects of the plant community when making predictions concerning nutrient limitation. We postulate that in diverse, lowland tropical forests “heterogeneous nutrient limitation” occurs, not only driven by variability in nutrient responses among taxa, but also among size classes and potential functional groups. Heterogeneous responses to nutrient additions could lead to changes in forest structure or even diversity in the long term, affecting rates of NPP and thus carbon cycling.
Population dynamics of Sonoran Desert saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) at the Desert Laboratory (Tucson, Arizona)
Authors: Rodriguez-Buritica Susana , Raichle Helen , Birt Trevor , Webb Robert H. , Turner Raymond M. , Pierson Elizabeth A. , Venable D. Lawrence
Published: July 2013

The saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) is one of the most iconic perennials in the Sonoran Desert. The ecological importance of this species has motivated studies that explored its physiological adaptations to deserts, factors controlling its recruitment and distribution, and changes in its population density and extent over time. The population of saguaros on Tumamoc Hill (Tucson, Arizona) is one of the best studied. Saguaros on and nearby Tumamoc Hill were mapped in 1908, and in 1964 R. M. Turner and J. R. Hastings established four 250‐m wide plots within the original census area. Plots were established on the north‐, south‐, east‐, and west‐facing slopes of Tumamoc Hill, and each plot extends from the top to the base of the hill. Plots were resurveyed in 1970, 1987, 1993, and between 2010 and 2012. In this Data Paper, we present all information associated with this monitoring program, which includes digital versions of Spalding's original 1908 saguaro map as well as information regarding individual saguaros located in each of the four plots. Collected data include plant height, number of branches, and plant condition, as well as plant location. Starting in 1993, we also noted the identity and condition of plant species growing in close proximity to each saguaro. The archived data set described here contains information pertaining to >5800 saguaros.

Past analyses of these data include reconstructions of regeneration patterns from observed age structures and the determination of the average height‐specific growth rates for plants on each slope. The findings from these studies have broadened our understanding of the relationship between saguaro regeneration patterns and climate. These data have also provided pivotal information regarding regional trends of saguaro populations throughout the Sonoran Desert. As a group, the Tumamoc Hill censuses constitute one of the longest spatially explicit monitoring efforts for a single species in the world. They provide an observational baseline for future comparisons relating individual growth and population demographics to rising CO2 levels, climate change, vegetation change, or changes in other biotic or abiotic factors.
The Impact of Noise and Mismatch on SAR ADCs and a Calibratable Capacitance Array Based Approach for High Resolutions
Authors: Mueller Jan Henning , Strache Sebastian , Busch Laurens , Wunderlich Ralf , Heinen Stefan
Published: July 2013

This paper describes widely used capacitor structures for charge-redistribution (CR) successive approximation register (SAR) based analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) and analyzes their linearity limitations due to kT/C noise, mismatch and parasitics. Results of mathematical considerations and statistical simulations are presented which show that most widespread dimensioning rules are overcritical. For high-resolution CR SAR ADCs in current CMOS technologies, matching of the capacitors, influenced by local mismatch and parasitics, is a limiting factor. For high-resolution medium-speed CR SAR ADCs, a novel capacitance array based approach using in-field calibration is proposed. This architecture promises a high resolution with small unit capacitances and without expensive factory calibration as laser trimming.
Stream Division by a Channel Bottom Orifice
Authors: Sawicki Jerzy M. , Siebert Michał
Published: July 2013

A particularly important application of devices dividing a stream of liquid is in storm water drainage systems. Dividers of rainwater sewage streams have in recent years aroused considerable interest among producers of separators. It is therefore important to develop mathematically simple and, if possible, physically precise methods of sizing such structures. It is all the more important given that there are few such methods in the literature on hydraulics. This work is meant to partially remedy this deficiency by elaborating on the calculation methodology and by verifying it empirically. A circular orifice at the bottom of the supplying channel is technically the simplest type of stream divider (which makes it higly practical and particularly appealing to producers). A procedure for dimensioning the structure under consideration is proposed here. It is formally simple, being meant as a practical designing tool. This proposal has been verified experimentally. The degree of the division of the stream was measured in a laboratory model. The main issues were the stability of the characteristics of the lateral outflow and the possibility of applying the classical equations of hydraulics to size the type of divider considered here. In both cases the results obtained may be regarded as positive. Admittedly, the output of the lateral outflow exceeds the nominal value for greater inflows Qp, but it is at most double the nominal value. From a technical point of view, this may be regarded as a good result, considering the simplicity of the system. The answer to the second issue proved even more satisfactory. It turns out that the formally simple hydraulics relationships provide a technically consistency of theory with measurement results. Thus the designing of objective devices does not require the application of difficult, time-consuming and costly methodology.
Characteristics of body tissue composition and functional traits in junior football players
Authors: Burdukiewicz Anna , Chmura Jan , Pietraszewska Jadwiga , Andrzejewska Justyna , Stachoń Aleksandra , Nosal Jarosław
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The aim of this study was to examine the body tissue composition and functional traits of young football players.

Methods

Analysis was performed on 23 junior football players. Body mass and height were measured. Bioelectrical impedance was used to assess the players’ body composition (fat mass, muscle mass, body cell mass and extracellular mass). The body mass index, body cell mass index and the extracellular mass/body cell mass ratio were also calculated. Functional traits were assessed by a one-on-one football game in an enclosed space with the objective to score the highest number of goals in a timed setting. Measurements of HRrest, HRmax and heart rate reserve were used to evaluate the efficiency of the subjects’ cardiovascular systems.

Results

Insignificant differences in body tissue composition and cardiovascular efficiency were found regardless of what position was played. Overall, forwards were characterised by having the greatest height, the highest level of active body tissue development and the most efficient cardiovascular systems. Defenders were characterised by having larger body build, while midfielders displayed a significantly greater percentage of extracellular mass and EMC in relation to BC M.

Conclusions

The results reveal that trends exist in the body tissue composition and cardiovascular efficiency of football players depending on which position they play. These differences reflect the varied physical efforts players perform during a match and should be taken into consideration when designing training programmes.
Effects of elbow flexor muscle resistance training on strength, endurance and perceived exertion
Authors: Gonçalves Mauro , Oliveira Anderson Souza Castelo
Published: July 2013

Purpose

To verify the effects of resistance training at the electromyographic fatigue threshold (EMGFT) based on one-repetition maximum strength (1RM), heart rate (HR), rate of perceived exertion (PE) and endurance time (EndT).

Methods

Nineteen subjects (training group [TG]: n = 10; control group [CG]: n = 9), performed 1-min bicep curl exercises sets at 25%, 30%, 35% and 40% 1RM. Electromyography (biceps brachii and brachiorradialis), HR and PE were registered. Biceps brachii EMGFT was used to create a load index for an eight-week resistance training programme (three sets until exhaustion/session, two sessions/week) for the TG. The CG only attended one session in the first week and another session in the last week of the eight-week training period for EndT measurement. EndT was determined from the number of repetitions of each of the three sets performed in the first and last training sessions. After training, 1RM, EMGFT, EndT, HR and PE at the different bicep curl load intensities were again measured for both groups.

Results

Increases in 1RM (5.9%, p < 0.05) and EndT (> 60%, p < 0.001) after training were found. In addition, PE was reduced at all load intensities (p < 0.05), while no changes were found for HR and EMGFT after training.

Conclusions

Strength-endurance training based on the EMGFT improved muscular endurance and also, to a lesser extent, muscular strength. Moreover, the reduced levels of physical exertion after training at the same intensity suggest that endurance training exercises may improve comfort while performing strength exercises.
The effects of resisted sprint training on speed performance in women
Authors: Makaruk Beata , Sozański Henryk , Makaruk Hubert , Sacewicz Tomasz
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The main aim of the study was to examine the effects of resisted and standard sprint training on the kinematics of sprintrunning acceleration in women.

Methods

Thirty-six untrained but physically active female college students were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a running resisted training group (RTG, n = 12), a standard training group (STG, n = 12), and a control group (CON, n = 12). All participants in the experimental groups trained three times a week for four weeks, followed by a 1-week training break, after which they trained again for four weeks. Pre-training, post-training and detraining (three weeks after completing the training programs) measures of mean running velocity, stride length, stride frequency, knee angle at toe off and footstrike, ground contact time, and flight time were analyzed by a 20 m sprint test.

Results

The RTG improved mean running velocity and increased stride length and knee angle at toe off. Simultaneously, the RTG featured decreased stride frequency and increased ground contact time. The STG demonstrated an increase in mean running velocity due to higher stride frequency and a decrease in ground contact time. All of the measured parameters did not significantly decrease after the three-week detraining period. The control group featured no changes.

Conclusions

Both resisted and standard sprint training improves speed in sprint-running acceleration in women by improving different sprint kinematic parameters.
The Ottoman Model in Jerusalem, the Common Capital of All Religions
Authors: Akgündüz Ahmed
Published: July 2013

Muslim Quarter

“As Jerusalem was a sacred town for not only the Muslims but also the Christians and the Jews, it was visited by a colossal number of visitors from all over the world during the sovereignty of the Ottomans as has the case ever been. We will explore this fact with many firmans by Ottoman Sultans. During the reigning era of the Ottomans there used to be four large quarters in Jerusalem. In the northeast thereof was located the , where were found the Town Hall, Masjid Al-Aqsa and Sahra Al-Mukaddasa (the Holy Desert). In the northwest was the

During the period of Ottoman State, the holy places pertaining to Christians, Muslims and Jews have been explained and described according Ottoman Archives. If lesson is derived from history, there certainly exist ways out of the crisis of Jerusalem. Our proposal is to return those days of peace and tranquillity by setting forth, with some additions, from the Ottoman Model that had been successfully practiced for 450 years.
Engaging Student Teachers in Sustainable Praxis in Aotearoa/New Zealand
Authors: Smorti Sue , Peters-Algie Madeleine , Rau Cheryl
Published: July 2013

This paper draws on the narratives of three teaching staff as they collaborate to transform student teachersí thinking and praxis about sustainability through a bicultural perspective that acknowledges indigenous and Western ideologies. It will discuss some of the experiences that the student teachers found to be transformational such as: whakapapa (our connectedness to all things, both living and non-living) and a mini action research project on the ërubbishí generated on their class days. The question the co-researchers pose: How is the [bicultural] conceptual framework visible in our teaching and learning about sustainability? Our findings suggest that student teachers become articulate and passionate about sustainability through engagement in activities that challenge the ëtakenfor- grantedí everyday practices. As confidence and competence increases, student teachers can realise their potential to make significant curriculum changes as they work alongside children and their families to care for planet earth.
Positive Youth Action Towards Climate Change
Authors: Buttigieg Karen , Pace Paul
Published: July 2013

This study focuses on the experiences of young people who are leaders of change in the environmental field. This study views environmental activism as a personal commitment towards pro-environmental behaviour. The motivations and challenges of such work are viewed as important to learn more not only about volunteering in environmental organisations, but also about pro-environmental behaviour. The main research problem was to explore these individualsí present and past life experiences, in the light of their activism, towards the issue of climate change. Narrative inquiry was chosen as a methodology for this research as it gives importance to experience and facilitates the study of an issue in all of its wholeness and complexity. The research involved in-depth interviews with three participants as well as living alongside the participants in an effort to build a relationship with them and to experience being an environmental activist. The participants were members of a local environmental organisation ñ Friends of the Earth (Malta). The outcomes of this study provide an opportunity for reflection on the factors that affect pro-environmental attitudes and behaviour and their implications on environmental education. This reflection will enable informed efforts to engage more young people in environmental activism. From the narratives produced, it is clear that there is no single factor that is optimal for promoting pro-environmental behaviour and environmental activism. These are, in fact, determined by a combination of interrelated factors.
The Influence of Therapeutic Training on Changes in Selected Biomechanical Variables After an Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Jarocka Marta , Czaplicki Adam
Published: July 2013

Introduction. The number of arthroscopic reconstructions of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) has been increasing not only among competitive athletes, but also among recreational athletes. The monitoring of the rehabilitation process in order to determine a safe time to return to the pre-injury activity is thus of great practical importance. The aim of this paper is to analyse the changes in selected biomechanical variables which occur after the therapeutic training following an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Materials and methods. Twenty nine males (age 27.3 ± 5.7 years) after the anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction participated in the study. A quadruple-stranded semitendinosus/gracilis graft was used for the reconstruction. The biomechanical evaluation of the rehabilitation process was provided by an isokinetic dynamometer Biodex System Pro-3 working at speeds of 60 deg/s and 180 deg/s during testing the knee extensor and flexor muscles. In the case of an injured limb, the absolute peak torque, relative peak torque, average power and hamstring/ quadriceps (H/Q) ratio were determined. In addition, the values of flexor and extensor torques for healthy and injured limbs were compared. The study was carried out in four stages: before the surgery, three, six and twelve months after the surgery. Results and analyses. The results showed significant differences in each value between various stages of the biomechanical rehabilitation process of the knee. The applied therapeutic training influenced significantly the changes in the values of the tested variables. The results have confirmed that the biomechanical measurements can be treated as a supplementation to the clinical evaluation of the patient after ACL reconstruction. They may also be used for the optimisation of the therapeutic training.
Asymmetry of Complex Reaction Time in Female Épée Fencers of Different Sports Classes
Authors: Poliszczuk Tatiana , Poliszczuk Dmytro , Da̧browska-Perzyna Agnieszka , Johne Monika
Published: July 2013

Introduction. The issue of asymmetry is becoming more and more widespread, causing considerable difficulties for sportspersons. The aim of this study was to assess dynamic asymmetry of complex reaction time in female épée fencers from different sports classes. Material and methods. Study participants comprised 45 female fencers divided into 3 groups. The RT-S5 test of the Vienna Test System was used to record reaction time and motor time in response to visual and audiovisual stimuli. Conclusions. The study found differences in complex reaction time between fencers of different sports classes. Champion-class fencers showed a very high dynamic asymmetry. Considerable differences in complex reaction time were found depending on the type of stimulus involved.
Body Composition of Female Senior Inhabitants of Biała Podlaska vs Their Physical Activity
Authors: Wasiluk Agnieszka , Saczuk Jerzy
Published: July 2013

Introduction. The aim of this study was to analyze body composition of female inhabitants of Biała Podlaska aged 60 years and older and characterized by different levels of physical activity. Material and methods. The study material were results from a survey conducted with 180 female inhabitants of Biała Podlaska aged 60 years and older (x 65.30 ± 4.68). The women were analyzed for body height, body mass, BMI and body composition. Their physical activity was determined using the IPAQ questionnaire and according to results achieved the women were classified into two groups: low physical activity (n=132), and moderate and high physical activity (n=48). The average frequency, duration and weekly energy expenditure of physical activities undertaken by the respondents were estimated in both groups. In addition, a social enquiry was conducted that enabled gathering information on the level of education, marital status and family status of the women. Results achieved were elaborated statistically. Results. The marital status 2 2 (χ2 =11.001, p<0.05) and family status (χ2 = 4.113, p<0.05) of the female senior inhabitants of Biała Podlaska were 2 modifying their physical activity to a greater extent that the educational status did (χ2 = 30.360, p>0.05). In addition, significant correlations were observed between absolute values of tissue components of the body and physical activity of the senior women. The average total energy expenditure in the group with a low physical activity accounted for 236.5 MET, whereas in the group with moderate and high physical activity - for 2255.3 MET. Conclusions. The study demonstrated that not only time devoted to physical activity but also its intensity affected the levels of tissue components. Results achieved in the survey indicate the necessity of continuing studies to examine correlations between body composition and physical activity of older population.
Weldability of high strength steels in wet welding conditions
Authors: Fydrych Dariusz , Łabanowski Jerzy , Rogalski Grzegorz
Published: July 2013

In this paper are characterized problems of high strength steel weldability in underwater wet welding conditions. Water as a welding environment intensifies action of unfavourable factors which influence susceptibility to cold cracking of welded steel joints. The susceptibility to cold cracking of S355J2G3 steel and S500M steel in wet conditions was experimentally estimated (by using Tekken test). It was concluded that the steels in question are characterized by a high susceptibility to formation of cracks in welds. Usefulness of the proposed Temper Bead Welding technique (TBW) was experimentally verified as a method for improving weldability of the steels in the analyzed conditions.
The Image of Russia and Russians as Seen by Polish University Students
Authors: Awramiuk-Godun Alina , Wites Tomasz
Published: July 2013

The results presented in this study are part of a joint research project undertaken in 2011 by the University of Warsaw and the University of St. Petersburg entitled “The perception of Polish-Russian relations by students in Poland and Russia”. The main purpose of the research conducted in Poland was to investigate the beliefs and attitudes of students at the University of Warsaw toward Russia and Russians. Students are open to the surrounding reality, conscious of the mental and spatial proximity that links Poles and Russians, and aware of the problems that define the present-day Polish-Russian relations. A vast majority of participants are people who possess a fairly extensive knowledge of various aspects of life in Russia and express sympathy for Russia and Russian people. In the opinion of the authors, the results of the above study can be useful to teachers at universities, especially those that deal with European, socio-cultural and geographical subjects.
Stability of Land Structure of Agricultural Properties Sold by the Agencja Nieruchomości Rolnych in Szczecin
Authors: Foryś Iwona , Putek–Szeląg Ewa
Published: July 2013

Trading in agricultural land in the Zachodniopomorskie Voivodeship (a high-level administrative subdivision of Poland) is strictly connected with the local activity of the ANR (Agencja Nieruchomości Rolnych - Agricultural Market Agency), which is the effect of historical problems concerning the ownership of arable land left over from the communist era. In effect, the Polish State Treasury is still in charge of managing state-owned farmland and, therefore, plays an important role in shaping local agricultural land markets. The study includes all the sale transactions concluded by the Szczecin division of the ANR in the Zachodniopomorskie gminas.

The subjects of the study are lands described by quantitative variables, such as: property size, location, date of sale and sale price. The purpose of the study was to define the structure of agricultural land sold by the ANR. The authors verified their research hypothesis concerning the stability of land structure over time of the agricultural land being sold.
Social Valuation of City Public Residential Space
Authors: Groeger Lidia
Published: July 2013

The paper presents the attributes of good public residential space within cities. Features of public residential space significant for city inhabitants at the place of residence were defined. Valuation of the desired qualities of public residential space at the place of residence and valuation of the existing qualities of public residential space at the current place of residence were determined according to surveys conducted among 1,500 inhabitants in 6 cities. The level of maladjustment of qualities of public residential space and the expectations of inhabitants were defined according to the obtained indicators.
Analysis of Activities Aimed at Increasing the Value of Property - Research Results
Authors: Kocur-Bera Katarzyna , Dudzińska Małgorzata
Published: July 2013

The main aim of the study was to analyse the possibilities of increasing the market value of a property through various activities. Such activities referred to in the literature as “value based management” and are commonly applied in enterprise management. In the case of properties, this system is based on the appropriate identification of factors making up the value of the property. These factors can be divided into two groups, i.e., objective factors, independent of activities undertaken by the owner or the manager of the property, and subjective factors resulting from a consciously implemented policy. Since only the second group of activities depends on the property manager, it is possible to introduce “value based management” with regard to the manager’s activities. This article presents a case study implemented on a part of hospital property. The analysis proved that the method used can also be applied to undeveloped parts of the property and that the market value of the property in individual investigated scenarios reaches 100%.
Dynamics, structure and properties of plant litterfall in a 120-year old beech stand in Middle Pomerania between 2007-2010
Authors: Jonczak Jerzy
Published: July 2013

Studies of plant litterfall mass, its dynamics, structure and chemical composition were conducted between 2007.2010 in a 120-year old beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) stand located in Middle Pomerania. The annual mass of litterfall during the study period ranged from 2.793 to 5.398 t·ha.1 and its maximum was observed during the seed year. Leaves were the major component of plant litterfall and their contribution was 82.4.84.5% in the non-seed years and 47.2% during the seed year. Inflorescences, seeds, and seed coats were important components of litterfall during the seed year and accounted together up to 39.8% of the total litterfall mass. Particular fractions of litterfall significantly differed in the chemical composition. The highest concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were noticed in seeds and leaves collected in spring and the maximum content of calcium was observed in leaves collected in autumn. The weighted mean annual concentrations of nitrogen ranged within 0.81.1.13%, phosphate . 0.126.0.153%, potassium . 0.298.0.485% and calcium . 0.416.0.583%. The influx of elements with litterfall to the soil was: 167.3.225.9 kg·ha-1 of ash, 23.2.61.0 kg·ha-1 of nitrogen, 3.6.7.6 kg·ha-1 of phosphorus, 8.3.26.2 kg·ha-1 of potassium and 15.3.22.4 kg·ha-1 of calcium.
Dufourea wuae – a new name and first description of the female (Hymenoptera: Halictidae: Rophitinae), with an updated checklist of the genus Dufourea in China
Authors: Shebl Mohamed , Qiang Li
Published: July 2013

Two species of the genus Dufourea have the same scientific name, Dufourea longicornis (WARNCKE, 1979) distributed in the Middle East, and Dufourea longicornis WU, 1982 distributed in China. Dufourea wuae is a new name for Dufourea longicornis WU, 1982. The female of Dufourea wuae is described for the first time, and an updated checklist of the Chinese species of Dufourea is given; there are 29 species in total. Most species are distributed in southern China. Twenty-five of the Chinese species are endemic; only four are distributed in other areas of the western and eastern Palaearctic.
Taxonomy and ecology of Bombus pyrosoma MORAWITZ (Hymenoptera: Apidae) from the North-west Indian Himalaya
Authors: Raina Rifat H. , Saini Malkiat S. , Khan Zakir H.
Published: July 2013

Bombus pyrosoma MORAWITZ is an Oriental species. In the Indian Himalaya it is widely distributed in Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Sikkim with a long seasonal activity period. Queens and males were examined from the Kashmir Himalaya during June, August and September with altitudinal distribution ranges from 2300 to 4200 m. The species is abundant from 3000 to 4000 m in the Kashmir Himalayan belt and was found foraging on large wild flowers in open areas of the mountains. It has a preference for some species of Lamiaceae, as well as Taraxacum officinale and Cirsium spp. (Asteraceae), and Trifolium spp. (Fabaceae). The queens are very large, whereas males are medium-sized. Both have very different colour patterns. Due emphasis has been laid on its thorough taxonomic descriptions, food plants, synonymy, distribution pattern and illustration.
W kręgu Tanatosa – problematyka kresu w poezji Julii Hartwig / Under the Spell of Thanatos: The Sense of the Ending in the Poetry of Julia Hartwig
Authors: Flakowicz-Szczyrba Marta
Published: July 2013

The article is concerned with the Thanatic motifs in the poetry of Julia Hartwig. These images analysis, are an essential part of her philosophical and existential reflection that opens up an eschatological perspective. They also help define her attitude towards the sacrum, the religious tradition and spirituality. The analysis reveals a tension between the spiritual experience spurred by liturgical rites and its various manifestations produced by other forms of interaction, eg. exposure to nature. An important factor in the shaping of Hartwig’s spiritual experience is her reflection about the nature of her tie with another human being. The presence of that tie helps her to overcome the fear of inner emptiness and transience. The dead, too, are endowed with an existential presence (in that sense in which the term is used by Karl Jaspers insidious despair the sense of emptiness confront the stand up to that with.
Joint analysis by the Nordic countries of a hepatitis A outbreak, October 2012 to June 2013: frozen strawberries suspected
Authors: Nordic outbreak investigation team collective
Published: July 2013

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus among French prison inmates in 2010: a challenge for public health policy
Authors: Semaille C , Le Strat Y , Chiron E , Chemlal K , Valantin M A , Serre P , Caté L , Barbier C , Jauffret-Roustide M , the Prevacar Group Collective
Published: July 2013

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Synergistic Effects of Nano-Sized Titanium Dioxide and Zinc on the Photosynthetic Capacity and Survival of Anabaena sp.
Authors: Tang Yulin , Li Shuyan , Qiao Junlian , Wang Hongtao , Li Lei
Published: July 2013

Anabaena sp. was used to examine the toxicity of exposure to a nano-TiO2 suspension, Zn2+ solution, and mixtures of nano-TiO2 and Zn2+ suspensions. Typical chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, including effective quantum yield, photosynthetic efficiency and maximal electron transport rate, were measured by a pulse-amplitude modulated fluorometer. Nano-TiO2 particles exhibited no significant toxicity at concentrations lower than 10.0 mg/L. The 96 h concentration for the 50% maximal effect (EC50) of Zn2+ alone to Anabaena sp. was 0.38 ± 0.004 mg/L. The presence of nano-TiO2 at low concentrations (<1.0 mg/L) significantly enhanced the toxicity of Zn2+ and consequently reduced the EC50 value to 0.29 ± 0.003 mg/L. However, the toxicity of the Zn2+/TiO2 system decreased with increasing nano-TiO2 concentration because of the substantial adsorption of Zn2+ by nano-TiO2. The toxicity curve of the Zn2+/TiO2 system as a function of incremental nano-TiO2 concentrations was parabolic. The toxicity significantly increased at the initial stage, reached its maximum, and then decreased with increasing nano-TiO2 concentration. Hydrodynamic sizes, concentration of nano-TiO2 and Zn2+ loaded nano-TiO2 were the main parameters for synergistic toxicity.
Dependence of Interaction Free Energy between Solutes on an External Electrostatic Field
Authors: Yang Pei-Kun
Published: July 2013

To explore the athermal effect of an external electrostatic field on the stabilities of protein conformations and the binding affinities of protein-protein/ligand interactions, the dependences of the polar and hydrophobic interactions on the external electrostatic field, −Eext, were studied using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. By decomposing Eext into, along, and perpendicular to the direction formed by the two solutes, the effect of Eext on the interactions between these two solutes can be estimated based on the effects from these two components. Eext was applied along the direction of the electric dipole formed by two solutes with opposite charges. The attractive interaction free energy between these two solutes decreased for solutes treated as point charges. In contrast, the attractive interaction free energy between these two solutes increased, as observed by MD simulations, for Eext = 40 or 60 MV/cm. Eext was applied perpendicular to the direction of the electric dipole formed by these two solutes. The attractive interaction free energy was increased for Eext = 100 MV/cm as a result of dielectric saturation. The force on the solutes along the direction of Eext computed from MD simulations was greater than that estimated from a continuum solvent in which the solutes were treated as point charges. To explore the hydrophobic interactions, Eext was applied to a water cluster containing two neutral solutes. The repulsive force between these solutes was decreased/increased for Eext along/perpendicular to the direction of the electric dipole formed by these two solutes.
Membrane Trafficking of Death Receptors: Implications on Signalling
Authors: Schneider-Brachert Wulf , Heigl Ulrike , Ehrenschwender Martin
Published: July 2013

Death receptors were initially recognised as potent inducers of apoptotic cell death and soon ambitious attempts were made to exploit selective ignition of controlled cellular suicide as therapeutic strategy in malignant diseases. However, the complexity of death receptor signalling has increased substantially during recent years. Beyond activation of the apoptotic cascade, involvement in a variety of cellular processes including inflammation, proliferation and immune response was recognised. Mechanistically, these findings raised the question how multipurpose receptors can ensure selective activation of a particular pathway. A growing body of evidence points to an elegant spatiotemporal regulation of composition and assembly of the receptor-associated signalling complex. Upon ligand binding, receptor recruitment in specialized membrane compartments, formation of receptor-ligand clusters and internalisation processes constitute key regulatory elements. In this review, we will summarise the current concepts of death receptor trafficking and its implications on receptor-associated signalling events.
The Influence of Processing and the Polymorphism of Lignocellulosic Fillers on the Structure and Properties of Composite Materials—A Review
Authors: Paukszta Dominik , Borysiak Slawomir
Published: July 2013

Cellulose is the most important and the most abundant plant natural polymer. It shows a number of interesting properties including those making it attractive as a filler of composite materials with a thermoplastic polymer matrix. Production of such composite materials, meeting the standards of green technology, has increased from 0.36 million tons in 2007 to 2.33 million tons in 2012. It is predicted that by 2020 their production will reach 3.45 million tons. Production of biocomposites with lignocellulosic components poses many problems that should be addressed. This paper is a review of the lignocellulosic materials currently used as polymer fillers. First, the many factors determining the macroscopic properties of such composites are described, with particular attention paid to the poor interphase adhesion between the polymer matrix and a lignocellulosic filler and to the effects of cellulose occurrence in polymorphic varieties. The phenomenon of cellulose polymorphism is very important from the point of view of controlling the nucleation abilities of the lignocellulosic filler and hence the mechanical properties of composites. Macroscopic properties of green composites depend also on the parameters of processing which determine the magnitude and range of shearing forces. The influence of shearing forces appearing upon processing the supermolecular structure of the polymer matrix is also discussed. An important problem from the viewpoint of ecology is the possibility of composite recycling which should be taken into account at the design stage. The methods for recycling of the composites made of thermoplastic polymers filled with renewable lignocellulosic materials are presented and discussed. This paper is a review prepared on the basis of currently available literature which describes the many aspects of the problems related to the possibility of using lignocellulosic components for production of composites with polymers.
Synthesis of New RE3+ Doped Li1+xTa1−xTixO3 (RE: Eu, Sm, Er, Tm, and Dy) Phosphors with Various Emission Colors
Authors: Nakano Hiromi , Suehiro Shiho , Furuya Shohei , Hayashi Hiroyuki , Fujihara Shinobu
Published: July 2013

New phosphors with various emission colors for RE3+ doped Li1+xTa1−xTixO3 (LTT) (RE: Eu, Sm, Er, Tm, and Dy) were synthesized by electric furnace at 1423 K for 15 h. The microstructure of the host material and the photoluminescence (PL) property were determined and compared to those of RE3+ doped Li1+xNb1−xTixO3 (LNT). In the LTT phosphor, the highest PL intensity was achieved for the mixture composition Li1.11Ta0.89Ti0.11O3 with a LiTaO3 structure, although it has an M-phase superstructure. In the LTT host material, the effective activators were Eu3+ and Sm3+ ions, in contrast to the LNT host material. Here, we discuss the relationship between PL property and the host material’s structure.
Domoic Acid Improves the Competitive Ability of Pseudo-nitzschia delicatissima against the Diatom Skeletonema marinoi
Authors: Prince Emily , Irmer Friederike , Pohnert Georg
Published: July 2013

Because domoic acid, a neurotoxic secondary metabolite produced by marine diatoms in the genus Pseudo-nitzschia, is hypothesized to be part of a high affinity iron uptake system, we investigated whether domoic acid could improve the competitive ability of Pseudo-nitzschia delicatissima, and whether the availability of iron changed the outcome of competition experiments. We found that domoic acid had a slight negative effect on growth of the diatom Skeletonema marinoi when it was grown in monocultures. However, when S. marinoi was cultured with P. delicatissima the presence of domoic acid resulted in a reduction of S. marinoi cells by up to 38% and an increase in P. delicatissima cell numbers by up to 17% under iron replete conditions. Similar effects were not observed in low iron treatments. Domoic acid was not taken up by P. delicatissima cells. Overall, our results indicate that domoic acid can improve the competitive ability of Pseudo-nitzschia spp. and that iron is likely to be involved. This study provides an unusual example of indirect inhibition of competitor growth mediated by a secondary metabolite.
Advances in Fruit Aroma Volatile Research
Authors: El Hadi Muna , Zhang Feng-Jie , Wu Fei-Fei , Zhou Chun-Hua , Tao Jun
Published: July 2013

Fruits produce a range of volatile compounds that make up their characteristic aromas and contribute to their flavor. Fruit volatile compounds are mainly comprised of esters, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, lactones, terpenoids and apocarotenoids. Many factors affect volatile composition, including the genetic makeup, degree of maturity, environmental conditions, postharvest handling and storage. There are several pathways involved in volatile biosynthesis starting from lipids, amino acids, terpenoids and carotenoids. Once the basic skeletons are produced via these pathways, the diversity of volatiles is achieved via additional modification reactions such as acylation, methylation, oxidation/reduction and cyclic ring closure. In this paper, we review the composition of fruit aroma, the characteristic aroma compounds of several representative fruits, the factors affecting aroma volatile, and the biosynthetic pathways of volatile aroma compounds. We anticipate that this review would provide some critical information for profound research on fruit aroma components and their manipulation during development and storage.
Transdermal Delivery of Adriamycin to Transplanted Ehrlich Ascites Tumor in Mice
Authors: Shiozuka Masataka , Nonomura Yoshiaki , Matsuda Ryoichi
Published: July 2013

There is considerable interest in the skin as a site of anti-cancer drug application. Nevertheless, the skin poses a formidable barrier to drug penetration, thereby limiting topical and transdermal bioavailability. However, we previously showed that a thioglycolate-based depilatory agent increases the drug permeability of mouse skin. In the present report, we investigated the skin permeability and efficacy of the anti-cancer drug adriamycin increased when administered transdermally to mice in combination with a thioglycolate-based depilatory agent. Adriamycin in combination with depilatory treatment reduced Ehrlich tumor growth in hairless mice about the weight and size of harvested tumors. In addition, our delivery method for adriamycin increased the therapeutic effectiveness of this agent by decreasing toxicity. Moreover, measurement of adriamycin autofluorescence revealed that topically applied adriamycin penetrate the dermis after depilatory agent treatment. These results indicate that the transdermal delivery of anti-cancer drugs is feasible by handy pretreatment of the skin with a thioglycolate-based depilatory agent.
Ensuring Reproduction at High Temperatures: The Heat Stress Response during Anther and Pollen Development
Authors: Giorno Filomena , Wolters-Arts Mieke , Mariani Celestina , Rieu Ivo
Published: July 2013

Sexual reproduction in flowering plants is very sensitive to environmental stresses, particularly to thermal insults which frequently occur when plants grow in field conditions in the warm season. Although abnormalities in both male and female reproductive organs due to high temperatures have been described in several crops, the failure to set fruits has mainly been attributed to the high sensitivity of developing anthers and pollen grains, particularly at certain developmental stages. A global view of the molecular mechanisms involved in the response to high temperatures in the male reproductive organs will be presented in this review. In addition, transcriptome and proteomic data, currently available, will be discussed in the light of physiological and metabolic changes occurring during anther and pollen development. A deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the stress response to high temperatures in flowers and, particularly, in the male reproductive organs will be a major step towards development of effective breeding strategies for high and stable production in crop plants.
Addendum: Bastos, J.C.S.; Kohn, L.K.; Fantinatti-Garboggini, F.; Padilla, M.A.; Flores, E.F.; da Silva, B.P.; de Menezes, C.B.A.; Arns, C.W. Antiviral Activity of Bacillus sp. Isolated from the Marine Sponge Petromica citrina against Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus, a Surrogate Model of the Hepatitis C Virus. Viruses 2013, 5, 1219-1230.
Authors: Bastos Juliana , Kohn Luciana , Fantinatti-Garboggini Fabiana , Padilla Marina , Flores Eduardo , Da Silva Bárbara , De Menezes Cláudia , Arns Clarice
Published: July 2013

The authors wish to add the following Acknowledgments and completed Table 1 to their paper published in Viruses [1], doi:10.3390/v5051219, website: http://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/5/5/1219.
DETERMINING THE PURPOSEFULNESS OF NEW SERVICES ON THE GROUNDS OF THE RESULTS OF QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS
Authors: Drejeris Rolandas , Bivainis Juozas , Tunčikienė Živilė , Drejerienė Eglė
Published: July 2013

The goal of the present article is to propose a methodology for substantiating the purposefulness of new service development reasoned by the results of a quantitative analysis of the current situation. The core of determining the purposefulness of new service development is assessing and comparing two trends of service business development: new service implementation and the main alternative of this process – the expansion of the scope of the current services. The paper demonstrates how the authors consolidate, annotate and critique available research on some logical aspects of new service development in order to find more objective quantitative decisions. The study provides the methodology (process model) of determining the purposefulness of new service development. A new attitude is evidenced by discovering quantitative assessment according to different sets of criteria. The paper also improves the comprehension of the complex process of new service implementation – proves the necessity of the first step, i.e. the determination of the purposefulness of a new service, which is often missed by authors. Appropriate solutions, according to the results of the suggested quantitative analysis, would increase the objectivity of assessment and the probability of successful new services.
Réseaux et documentation, un lien originel à revisiter
Authors: Chartron Ghislaine
Published: July 2013

De tout temps, le travail en réseau s’est imposé pour gérer l’information et les enjeux très forts qu’elle représente en termes sociétaux, économiques et politiques ont déjà fait émerger dans le passé divers projets d’envergure nationale et internationale. Ce qui est nouveau n’est donc pas l’échelle géographique, déclinée à l’envi, mais « les changements de périmètres » tant de l’information à traiter que des outils et des usages du public. Que de défis passionnants à relever aujourd’hui, dans un domaine où le réseau reste plus que jamais prégnant ! C’est donc un jeu de plaques à multiples dimensions, entre tradition et nouveauté, que nous offrent les diverses initiatives retenues pour illustrer ces questions dans ce dossier.