bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meteorological, elevation, and slope effects on surface hoar formation
Authors: Horton S. , Schirmer M. , Jamieson B.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Failure in layers of buried surface hoar crystals (frost) can cause hazardous snow slab avalanches. Surface hoar crystals form on the snow surface and are sensitive to micro-meteorological conditions. In this study, the role of meteorological and terrain factors was investigated for three layers of surface hoar in the Columbia Mountains of Canada. The distribution of crystals over different elevations and aspects was observed on 20 days of field observations during a period of high pressure. The same layers were modelled over simplified terrain on a 2.5 km horizontal grid by forcing the snow cover model SNOWPACK with forecast weather data from a numerical weather prediction model. Modelled surface hoar growth was associated with warm air temperatures, high humidity, cold surface temperatures, and low wind speeds. Surface hoar was most developed in regions and elevation bands where these conditions existed, although strong winds at high elevations caused some model discrepancies. SNOWPACK simulations on virtual slopes systematically predicted smaller surface hoar on south-facing slopes. In the field, a complex combination of surface hoar and sun crusts were observed, suggesting the simplified model did not adequately resolve the surface energy balance on slopes. Overall, a coupled weather–snow cover model could benefit avalanche forecasters by predicting surface hoar layers on a regional scale over different elevation bands.
A moving point approach to model shallow ice sheets: a study case with radially-symmetrical ice sheets
Authors: Bonan B. , Baines M. J. , Nichols N. K. , Partridge D.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Predicting the evolution of ice sheets requires numerical models able to accurately track the migration of ice sheet continental margins or grounding lines. We introduce a physically-based moving point approach for the flow of ice sheets based on the conservation of local masses. This allows the ice sheet margins to be tracked explicitly and the waiting time behaviours to be modelled efficiently. A finite difference moving point scheme is derived and applied in a simplified context (continental radially-symmetrical shallow ice approximation). The scheme, which is inexpensive, is validated by comparing the results with moving-margin exact solutions and steady states. In both cases the scheme is able to track the position of the ice sheet margin with high precision.
Classical galactosemia in a Thai infant: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ngoenmak Thitima , Somran Julintorn , Phuaksaman Chutima , Khunrat Jaruwat
Published: August 2015

Background

Classic galactosemia is an inherited disorder of galactose metabolism that is caused by a deficiency of galactose-1-phosphate uridyl transferase (GALT). As in other Asians, the prevalence of galactosemia in Thai people is very low. An accumulation of its toxic metabolites leads to acute neonatal toxicity and long-term complications.

Objective

To present the fourth known published case of classical galactosemia in a Thai infant and review the English language literature.

Method

A 4-month-old boy who was born into a Thai family with no history of consanguinity developed persistent jaundice, hepatosplenomegaly, and lethargy, since introduction to breast-feeding.

Result

Urine gas chromatography-mass spectrometry demonstrated a high level of galactose, galactitol, and galactonate. Liver biopsy confirmed severe hepatocellular damage and fibrosis. Breast-feeding was immediately replaced by a lactose-free diet and soy milk. His clinical features and subsequent laboratory measurements improved. Developmental delays and defects on speech presented at the last followed up.

Conclusion

Long-term complications are diet-independent and inevitable. However early recognition and immediate withdraw of galactose from the diet can prevent serious morbidity and mortality.
Correlation between capillary and venous blood glucose levels in diabetic patients
Authors: Adnan Muhammad , Imam Fakhar , Shabbir Iffat , Ali Zahra , Rahat Tayyaba
Published: August 2015

Background

Rapid blood glucose estimation is required to prescribe treatments and to make dose adjustments in diabetic patients. However, measuring plasma glucose levels is time consuming. Therefore, the use of glucometers has greatly increased.

Objectives

To measure the correlation between capillary and venous blood glucose levels.

Methods

Seventy patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were enrolled in the present study and informed written consent was obtained from all participants. Demographic characteristics and clinical information was noted. Capillary and venous glucose levels were determined. Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21 was used for data analysis.

Results

Mean age of patients was 52 ± 12 years. It included 29% men; 71% women; 9% smokers; and 90% poor. Mean venous glucose was 11.73 ± 4.64 mmol/L and mean capillary glucose 12.57 ± 5.21 mmol/L. These findings demonstrated a significant intermethod mean difference of 0.84 mmol/L (P < 0.001). Inter-glucose difference was not significant at glucose levels near normal. However, it increased gradually with rise in glucose measurements and was significant at elevated glucose levels. Both concordance correlation coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient demonstrated positive correlation and more consistency between glucose estimations. A Bland and Altman plot presented excellent agreement between glucometrically and photometrically determined glucose levels.

Conclusion

A positive correlation coefficient showed strong association between capillary and venous glucose measurements.
Pyrosequencing analysis of KRAS codon 61 mutations in Thai patients with advanced colorectal cancer
Authors: Teerapakpinyo Chinachote , Wanthong Phanni , Aumchaaumchaya Mathawee , Chankate Piyamai , Kaikeaw Warisa , Tosakorn Warunya , Shaungshoti Shanop
Published: August 2015

Background

KRAS, coding for a small G-protein downstream of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays an important role in the EGFR signaling network. Mutation in KRAS is associated with resistance to anti-EGFR in patients with advanced colorectal cancer (CRC). According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) guidelines, screening for mutations in KRAS codons 12 and 13 in tumor samples is mandatory for all CRC patients who are candidates for anti-EGFR targeted therapy. However, some patients with undetectable mutations in codons 12/13 do not benefit from anti-EGFR treatment, and this might be because of mutations in codon 61, which is not currently recommended for screening.

Objectives

To develop an in-house pyrosequencing method to screen for KRAS codon 61 mutations, and examine the prevalence of mutations in Thai patients with advanced CRC with no detectable mutation in codons 12/13.

Materials and Methods

DNA extracted from FFPE specimens was screened for KRAS codon 61 mutations using pyrosequencing. Our method was suitable for routine clinical samples (formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue), and was able to detect 5 common mutations in codon 61 of the KRAS gene, including c.182AT (p.Q61L), c.182AG (p.Q61R), c.182AC (p.Q61P), c.183AC (p.Q61H), and c.183AT (p.Q61H).

Results

Of the 74 samples with undetectable codon 12/13 mutation examined, two (2.7%) were found to harbor mutation in codon 61.

Conclusion

Despite the low prevalence of KRAS codon 61 mutation in our population with advanced CRC, adding the mutation test into the routine molecular service deserves consideration because the cost of treatment is very expensive.
Epidemiology of upper gastrointestinal bleeding and Helicobacter pylori infection: review of 3,488 Thai patients
Authors: Suchartlikitwong Sakolwan , Lapumnuaypol Kamolyut , Rerknimitr Rungsun , Werawatganon Duangporn
Published: August 2015

Background

The current epidemiology of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) in Thailand is poorly understood and the reported prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection is outdated.

Objectives

To investigate the etiologies of UGIB and prevalence of H. pylori infection in Thailand, including its association with UGIB.

Methods

We retrieved information regarding patients attending the endoscopic unit of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital from June 2007 to January 2013. A database search using keywords “upper gastrointestinal bleeding” and “iron deficiency” was used. From 4,454 diagnoses, after exclusion criteria, 3,488 patients (2,042 male (58.5%) and 1,446 female (41.5%); mean age 63.3 ± 15.94 years, range 13–103 years) were included.

Results

The three most common causes of UGIB were peptic ulcer (38.2%), nonulcer-mucosal lesions (23.4%), and esophageal-related causes (20.4%). The 5 year-incidence of H. pylori was 25%–30%. The overall prevalence was 27%. The prevalence of H. pylori infection was found to decrease with age from 43.8% at <40 years to 21.7% at >79 years old. H. pylori infection was significantly associated with duodenal and gastroduodenal ulcers. Cirrhosis and nonulcer-mucosal lesions were significantly unrelated to H. pylori infection. Patients with concurrent cirrhosis with peptic ulcer were found to be negative for H. pylori infection.

Conclusion

Peptic ulcer is the leading cause of UGIB in Thailand. However, its incidence is declining. Patients who presented to hospital with UGIB were older, compared with those a decade ago. H. pylori infection plays an important role in UGIB and its incidence was stable during the past 5 years.
Assessment of health-related quality of life in Thai patients after heart surgery
Authors: Sakthong Phantipa , Kasemsup Vijj , Winit-Watjana Win
Published: August 2015

Background

Little is known about health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of Thai patients after heart surgery. The Thai government initiated a cardiac surgery project to celebrate the 80th birthday anniversary of His Majesty The King.

Objectives

To evaluate the HRQoL of Thai patients after heart surgery, as part of the Thai government’s cardiac surgery project, and to investigate the association of HRQoL instruments and patient characteristics.

Methods

Of 7,863 patients in the project, 386 were randomly selected for a telephone interview by trained researchers during June–November 2008. The HRQoL of Thai patients was measured using 12-item Short Form version 2 and EuroQoL (EQ-5D) plus an EQ-5D visual analog scale (EQ-VAS).

Results

The mean age of patient participants was 50.4 ± 13.7 years (range 17–82) and 49.5% were male. The Physical Component Summary (PCS) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores were reported as 46.91 and 54.44, respectively, compared with the US norm scores of 50. The EQ-5D and EQ-VAS utility scores of 0.81 and 0.84 were comparable to those of Thai general population (0.77–0.84), but higher than those of Thai patients with heart disease (0.73–0.75). Patients with older age, female sex, unemployment, and presence of comorbidity rated a lower HRQoL. The multiple linear regression models showed that both EQ-5D and EQ-VAS were associated with PCS and MCS and could be predicted by 40%–50%.

Conclusion

Overall, the HRQoL of patients after the heart surgery was satisfactory. The QoL in patients with a specific types of heart surgery warrants further study.
Doppler waveform patterns and reference ranges of fetal renal artery blood flow indices in normal Thai fetuses during the second trimester
Authors: Ponglopisit Surachai , Hanprasertpong Tharangrut , Geater Alan , Petpichetchian Chusana , Kor-anantakula Ounjai , Leetanaporn Roengsak , Suntharasaj Thitima , Suwanrath Chitkasaem , Pruksanusak Ninlapa , Pranpanus Savitree , Jitpiboon Walailak
Published: August 2015

Background

Fetal hemodynamics can be assessed by Doppler ultrasonography, but the normal Doppler waveform pattern and reference range of fetal renal artery blood flow indices in normal Thai fetuses during the second trimester have not been studied.

Objectives

To study the pattern and establish the normal reference range of fetal renal artery blood flow indices in the normal Thai fetus during the second trimester.

Materials and methods

This cross-sectional descriptive study included 512 normal singleton pregnant women, gestational age between 14(+0) and 28(+6) weeks. Ultrasonography was performed to assess the Doppler waveform pattern and estimate the normal reference range of fetal renal artery blood flow indices. All fetuses were delivered at term with normal outcomes at birth. The mean and 95th and 5th percentiles of the Doppler indices for each gestational week were estimated.

Results

Doppler patterns with absence of diastolic flow in the entire cardiac cycle (type I), and absence of diastolic flow at the end of cardiac cycle (type II) were presented in about 10.4% of normal fetuses during the second trimester of pregnancy. Values for pulsatility index, peak systolic velocity, systolic-to-diastolic ratio, and resistance index (with absent end-diastolic velocity (AEDV) removed) each increased significantly with gestational age. The increase in end-diastolic velocity (with AEDV removed) with gestational age was not significant.

Conclusion

These normative data could serve as a basis for evaluation of the fetal renal artery blood flow, which should be of benefit for pregnancy management, especially in situations that interfere with fetal renal perfusion.
Cultura e costumes: um campo em disputa
Authors: Longhi Carla Reis
Published: August 2015

Este artigo propõe a reflexão sobre o âmbito cultural no contexto da ditadura militar, priorizando a reflexão sobre os costumes. Propomos a análise do discurso produzido pelos governos militares sobre o tema, presente em documentação de circulação institucional, cruzando a perspectiva aí presente com as ações políticas de fomento cultural e o discurso publicitário daí decorrente, vislumbrando um campo em disputa, constituído por uma contínua tensão entre a ação repressora e a busca de legitimação. Nesta relação dicotômica, a ditadura militar buscou disseminar seu projeto ideológico na constituição de um Estado caracterizado por um modelo de desenvolvimento ao mesmo tempo modernizador e conservador.
De pedofiele relatie
Authors: Mulder Jules
Published: August 2015

The paedophile relationship

This article reflects on the various aspects of paedophile relationships. It is for a large part based on the author’s 30 years of clinical experience with the treatment of paedosexual men. The characteristics of paedophile relatonships are examined and how they usually develop. What does the paedophile seeks in a relationship with a child and vice versa? The prohibition of paedophilia and its consequences for the paedophile are also discussed. Paedosexuality is banned because of the supposed damage for the child involved. But what causes this damage? And what is the possible damage caused by the prohibition? Finally the author shows the interacting of elements like desire and love as well as manipulation and secrets. The friendship with an older man can be very valuable for a child, which is reflected in many books and movies on this topic. In this sense a paedophile relatonship can be appropriate. But this applies only if the adult has enough self control to refrain from giving in to sexual desires, since a paedosexual relationship can never be appropriate.
CD4 changes among virologically suppressed patients on antiretroviral therapy: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ford Nathan , Stinson Kathryn , Gale Howard , Mills Edward J , Stevens Wendy , González Mercedes P , Markby Jessica , Hill Andrew
Published: August 2015

Introduction

The effectiveness of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is assessed by measuring CD4 cell counts and viral load. Recent studies have questioned the added value of routine CD4 cell count measures in patients who are virologically suppressed.

Methods

We systematically searched three databases and two conference sites up to 31 October 2014 for studies reporting CD4 changes among patients who were on ART and virologically suppressed. No geographic, language or age restrictions were applied.

Results and discussion

We identified 12 published and 1 unpublished study reporting CD4 changes among 20,297 virologically suppressed patients. The pooled proportion of patients who experienced an unexplained, confirmed CD4 decline was 0.4% (95% CI 0.2–0.6%). Results were not influenced by duration of follow‐up, age, study design or region of economic development. No studies described clinical adverse events among virologically suppressed patients who experienced CD4 declines.

Conclusions

The findings of this review support reducing or stopping routine CD4 monitoring for patients who are immunologically stable on ART in settings where routine viral load monitoring is provided.
Investigating the Role of Government Policy and the Environment on Locals’ Loyalty to Spring Music Festivals
Authors: Lee Yao-Kuei , Liu Tsai-Lung , Chung Fang-Tsen , Ho Hsiao-Hui
Published: August 2015

This paper explores the importance of government policy and the environment in determining locals’ perceived value of and loyalty to festivals. Although past studies have analyzed attendee loyalty, little research has examined the perspectives of local businesses and residents. Locals with unsatisfactory experiences can hinder festivals from being held. This study applied a structural equation model (SEM) approach to investigate the responses of locals to spring music festivals in southern Taiwan. The results indicated that both government policy and the environment affected perceived value, which consequently influenced loyalty. Implications are drawn for government policy support, festival management, and tourism. Keywords: Festival Loyalty, Festivalscape, Perceived Value, Music Festival To cite this document: Yao-Kuei Lee, Tsai-Lung Liu, Fang-Tsen Chung, and Hsiao-Hui Ho, "Investigating the Role of Government Policy and the Environment on Locals’ Loyalty to Spring Music Festivals ", Contemporary Management Research, Vol.11, No.1, pp.35-54, 2015. Permanent link to this document: http://dx.doi.org/10.7903/cmr.13791
Copper‐Catalyzed Aerobic Autoxidation of N‐Hydroxycarbamates Probed by Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Xie Xiaobo , Zhang Long , He Qing , Hou Jian , Xu Changming , Zhang Ning , Luo Sanzhong , Nie Zongxiu
Published: August 2015

We present herein a mechanistic investigation by nanoelectrospray ionization mass spectrometry of copper‐catalyzed aerobic oxidative processes involved in the N‐nitrosocarbonyl aldol reaction of N‐hydroxycarbamates. Protonated amine and copper as charge‐tags aided the detection of reaction intermediates, which verified the enamine mechanism together with a competing enol process. Our experimental results reveal that the copper‐catalyzed aerobic oxidation of N‐hydroxycarbamates may proceed through an autoxidation catalytic mechanism in which a CbzNHO. radical abstracts a hydrogen from the bound N‐hydroxycarbamate to release the nitroso intermediate through a bimolecular hydrogen‐atom transfer. In this process, the chiral diamine also works as a ligand for copper to facilitate the aerobic oxidative step. The dual role of the chiral vicinal diamine as both an aminocatalyst and a bidentate ligand was finally uncovered.
Circular Dichroism of Amino Acids: Following the Structural Formation of Phenylalanine
Authors: Amdursky Nadav , Stevens Molly M.
Published: August 2015

Circular dichroism (CD) is frequently used to assess the secondary structure of peptides and proteins, whereas less attention has been given to their building blocks, that is, single amino acids, as they do not possess a secondary structure. Here, we follow the CD signal of amino acids and reveal that several acids exhibit a unique CD pattern as a function of their concentration. Accordingly, we propose an eight‐level classification of the CD signal of the various amino acids. Special focus is given to the CD pattern of phenylalanine (Phe), for which we observe the formation of an ultra‐narrow CD peak (full width at high maximum of only 5 nm). This CD peak can be attributed to the formation of Phe‐based chiral structural features. Further support for the formation of an ordered structure is given by using NMR, and the additional self‐assembly process of Phe to tubular structures.
Synthesis of Photodegradable Polystyrene with Trithiocarbonate as Linkages
Authors: Li Qianbiao , Hu Xiaoqian , Bai Ruke
Published: August 2015

Multiblock polystyrenes (PS) with trithiocarbonate groups as linkages are prepared via reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer polymerization using polytrithiocarbonate as a chain transfer agent. The photodegradability of the multiblock PS in the solid state is investigated under UV irradiation at room temperature in an air atmosphere. The experimental results demonstrate that the trithiocarbonate linkages in the multiblock PS can be broken under UV light irradiation at room temperature and the multiblock PS is degraded into separate PS blocks. Gel permeation chromatography measurement reveals that the molecular weight of multiblock PS is reduced from 27 900 to 7900 g mol−1 after UV light irradiation for 745 h. Moreover, the thermal stability of the multiblock PS is examined and the results indicate that the incorporation of trithiocarbonate shows little influence on the thermal stability of multiblock PS.

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Region‐Specific Alterations of Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity in Multiple System Atrophy
Authors: Bassil Fares , Monvoisin Arnaud , Canron Marie‐Helene , Vital Anne , Meissner Wassilios G. , Tison François , Fernagut Pierre‐Olivier
Published: August 2015

Background

MSA is a sporadic progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a variable combination of parkinsonism, cerebellar ataxia, and autonomic dysfunction. The pathological hallmark of MSA is the accumulation of alpha‐synuclein aggregates in the cytoplasm of oligodendrocytes along with neuronal loss and neuroinflammation, as well as blood–brain barrier dysfunction and myelin deterioration. Matrix metalloproteinases are zinc‐dependent endopeptidases involved in the remodeling of the extracellular matrix, demyelination, and blood–brain barrier permeability. Several lines of evidence indicate a role for these enzymes in various pathological processes, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's disease.

Methods

This study aimed to assess potential alterations of matrix metalloproteinase‐1, ‐2, ‐3, and ‐9 expression or activity in MSA postmortem brain tissue.

Results

Gelatin zymography revealed increased matrix metalloproteinase‐2 activity in the putamen, but not in the frontal cortex, of MSA patients relative to controls. Immunohistochemistry revealed increased number of glial cells positive for matrix metalloproteinase‐1, ‐2, and ‐3 in the putamen and frontal cortex of MSA patients. Double immunofluorescence revealed that matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and ‐3 were expressed in astrocytes and microglia. Only matrix metalloproteinase‐2 colocalized with alpha‐synuclein in oligodendroglial cytoplasmic inclusions.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate widespread alterations of matrix metalloproteinase expression in MSA and a pattern of increased matrix metalloproteinase‐2 expression and activity affecting preferentially a brain region severely affected (putamen) over a relatively spared region (frontal cortex). Elevated matrix metalloproteinase expression may thus contribute to the disease process in MSA by promoting blood–brain barrier dysfunction and/or myelin degradation. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Energetics and heterodiffusion of Cu on Ag(110) stepped surfaces
Authors: Sbiaai K. , Elkoraychy E. , Mazroui M. , Boughaleb Y. , Matrane I.
Published: August 2015

A molecular‐dynamics simulation study has been performed to investigate the Cu adatom diffusion on the (110) stepped surfaces of Ag, using interatomic potentials described by the embedded atom method. We have systematically calculated the energy barriers for different possible diffusion mechanisms, which occur on the terrace and near the step edge. Our findings show that the predominant atomistic diffusion process at step edge and on the terrace is the exchange mechanism with anES barrier about 220 meV lower than that via jumping (290 meV), indicating that the incorporation of Cu adatom into Ag(110) is ‘easier’ than making a jump on the surface. On the other hand, the calculation of the Ehrlich–Schwoebel (ES) barrier demonstrates that this quantity is equal to 0 meV for the exchange process near the step edge and about 60 meV for channel–channel migration. Thus, the mass transport across steps may be important due to the lack of the ES barriers for exchange mechanism, revealing the possible layer‐by‐layer growth mode for our heterogeneous system. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Monitoring landscape‐level distribution and migration Phenology of Raptors using a volunteer camera‐trap network
Authors: Jachowski David S. , Katzner Todd , Rodrigue Jane L. , Ford W. Mark
Published: August 2015

Conservation of animal migratory movements is among the most important issues in wildlife management. To address this need for landscape‐scale monitoring of raptor populations, we developed a novel, baited photographic observation network termed the “Appalachian Eagle Monitoring Program” (AEMP). During winter months of 2008–2012, we partnered with professional and citizen scientists in 11 states in the United States to collect approximately 2.5 million images. To our knowledge, this represents the largest such camera‐trap effort to date. Analyses of data collected in 2011 and 2012 revealed complex, often species‐specific, spatial and temporal patterns in winter raptor movement behavior as well as spatial and temporal resource partitioning between raptor species. Although programmatic advances in data analysis and involvement are needed, the continued growth of the program has the potential to provide a long‐term, cost‐effective, range‐wide monitoring tool for avian and terrestrial scavengers during the winter season. Perhaps most importantly, by relying heavily on citizen scientists, AEMP has the potential to improve long‐term interest and support for raptor conservation and serve as a model for raptor conservation programs in other portions of the world. © This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Towards the commercialization of Botryococcus braunii for triterpenoid production
Authors: Al-Hothaly Khalid A , Adetutu Eric M , May Brian H , Taha Mohamed , Ball Andrew S
Published: August 2015

Botryococcus braunii can accumulate unusually high levels of triterpenoid hydrocarbons making it a potential source of high value chemicals. However, its commercial application is hampered by its slow growth and lack of large-scale studies of triterpenoid hydrocarbon production. This study investigated hydrocarbon production in two race B of B. braunii strains, Overjuyo-3 and Kossou-4, at 25 °C in 500 L open tanks under artificial lighting in modified BG11 medium over 60 days. Maximum growth was reached by 40 days with Overjuyo-3 producing more biomass (3.05 g L−1) than Kossou-4 (2.55 g L−1). However, Kossou-4 produced more oil (0.75 g L−1) and triterpenoid hydrocarbons (C30–C34; 50 % of oil weight) compared to 0.63 g L−1 of oil in Overjuyo-3 with triterpenoid hydrocarbons making up 29 % of oil weight. This research demonstrates for the first time that large-scale production of high value triterpenoid hydrocarbon for commercial application is feasible with Kossou-4 strain.
The Consent of the First Wife in a Polygamous Marriage as a Requirement for the Validity of her Husband's Subsequent Marriage under South Africa's Recognition of Customary Marriages Act: Mayelane v Ngwenyama
Authors: Dyani-Mhango Ntombizozuko
Published: August 2015

In the South African case of Mayelane v Ngwenyama, the Constitutional Court held that the consent of the first wife in a polygamous marriage is a requirement for a subsequent marriage of her husband to be valid, even though the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act is silent on the issue. This article argues that this decision reinforces the equality of spouses in a polygamous marriage and customary marriages in general, as envisaged by the act and as the constitution demands. It also criticizes the legislature's failure to give guidance regarding the absence of consequences for failure to comply with the requirement for a husband to seek the court's approval of a contract to regulate future marriages before he marries a subsequent wife. The article suggests that the legislature should revisit the Recognition Act to repeal the provision or stipulate consequences for the failure to comply.
FIXED CAPITAL IN AGRICULTURE: RICHARD JONES’S CRITIQUE OF RICARDO’S THEORY OF RENT
Authors: Gehrke Christian
Published: August 2015

Richard Jones’s 1831 critique of David Ricardo’s theory of rent is generally viewed as ill-founded. The present paper shows that Jones’s Essay on the Distribution of Wealth contains an important analytical insight: Jones noticed that Ricardo’s treatment of agricultural improvements was seriously incomplete, because it failed to accommodate the historically important case of agricultural improvements that involve the use of fixed capital. More generally, it is suggested that Jones was correct in pointing out that Ricardo had not properly taken into account fixed capital in his analysis of rent and of agricultural improvements.
International law and armed conflict in dark times: A call for engagement
Authors: Modirzadeh Naz K.
Published: August 2015

This Opinion Note highlights the international humanitarian law (IHL) provisions mandating dissemination of the Geneva Conventions and the Additional Protocols to the civilian population. In referencing three dilemmas concerning contemporary challenges to international law in armed conflict and how each of those dilemmas may result in a “breaking point” or a “turning point”, the author argues that it is vitally important not only for armed forces but also for the general public to learn – and actively engage with – IHL both during war and in (relative) peacetime.
GSH extrusion and the mitochondrial pathway of apoptotic signalling
Authors: Coppola S. , Ghibelli L.
Published: August 2015

New evidence suggests that physiological and damaging agents activate two different pathways of apoptotic signalling, which are mediated by protein-protein interactions and mitochondrial alterations respectively. The two pathways converge at the activation of caspase 3, the key effector of the execution phase of apoptosis, thus giving similar final results. The knowledge that different biochemical routes exist allows us to re-evaluate previous apparently contradictory results concerning the events occurring during apoptosis, and their respective roles. In particular, this applies to the role of oxidative stress and redox imbalance in the signal transduction events of apoptosis. It now appears that oxidative alterations are absent, or at least unnecessary, for the development of the physiological pathway. Instead, clear indications are emerging showing that redox imbalance is required for the damage-induced mitochondrial pathway. This is suggested by the finding that the depletion of glutathione, a common event in damage-induced apoptosis, is necessary and sufficient to induce cytochrome c release, the key event of this pathway. A model is proposed with GSH efflux as the backbone of the damage-induced apoptotic pathway.
Regulation of apoptosis and replicative senescence in CD8+ T cells from patients with viral infections
Authors: Soares M.V.D. , Maini M.K. , Beverley P.C.L. , Salmon M. , Akbar A.N.
Published: August 2015

Activated T lymphocytes are generated during an immune response. The induction of T lymphocyte proliferation is one way in which cell numbers can be controlled. However, once generated, the increased numbers of cells must be removed in order to re-establish cellular homoeostasis within the immune system. In this paper we describe how the numbers of activated T cells can be regulated by two distinct mechanisms, namely apoptosis and replicative senescence. In addition, we suggest that the regulation of cell clearance, as opposed to cell persistence, after an immune response is intimately involved in the generation of immune memory.
Spectroscopic studies of phospholamban variants in phospholipid bilayers
Authors: Clayton J.C. , Hughes E. , Middleton D.A.
Published: August 2015

Phospholamban (PLB) is a 52 amino acid transmembrane protein found in the sarcoplasmic reticulum of cardiac myocytes, where it regulates the transport of calcium ions by SERCA (sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase). This work has shown that the cytoplasmic domain of PLB associates with phospholipid vesicles, possibly with the lipid polar head groups, and, in doing so, undergoes a transition from a random coil to a more helical conformation. These findings support a recent hypothesis that the cytoplasmic domain of PLB acts as a conformational switch, alternating between an orientation that lies across the membrane surface and an upright orientation that associates with the regulatory site of SERCA.
Defining the protein–protein interactions of the mammalian endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductases (EROs)
Authors: Dias-Gunasekara S. , Benham A.M.
Published: August 2015

The ER (endoplasmic reticulum) is the site of protein folding for all eukaryotic secreted and plasma membrane proteins. Disulphide bonds are formed in many of these proteins through a dithiol–disulphide exchange chain comprising two types of protein catalysts: PDI (protein disulphide-isomerase) and ERO (ER oxidoreductase) proteins. This review will examine what we know about ERO function, and will then consider ERO interactions and their implications for mammalian oxidative protein folding.
Regulation of small GTP-binding proteins by insulin
Authors: Welsh G.I. , Hers I. , Wherlock M. , Tavaré J.M.
Published: August 2015

Several members of the extensive family of small GTP-binding proteins are regulated by insulin, and have been implicated in insulin action on glucose uptake. These proteins are themselves negatively regulated by a series of specific GAPs (GTPase-activating proteins). Interestingly, there is increasing evidence to suggest that PKB (protein kinase B)-dependent phosphorylation of some GAPs may relieve this negative regulation and so lead to the activation of the target small GTP-binding protein. We review recent evidence that this may be the case, and place specific emphasis on the role of these pathways in insulin-stimulated glucose uptake.
Use of PKA-mediated phenotypes for genetic and small-molecule screens in Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: de Medeiros Ana Santos , Magee Alexander , Nelson Kyle , Friedberg Liora , Trocka Karolina , Hoffman Charles S.
Published: August 2015

PKA (protein kinase A) in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe controls transcription of genes involved in metabolism, cell growth and sexual development. In the present review, we discuss phenotypes associated with either high or low PKA activity in the context of how they can be used to carry out genetic or small-molecule screens that affect components of the PKA pathway. Although our recent research has focused on the study of heterologously expressed cyclic nucleotide PDEs (phosphodiesterases), these same methods can be used to target other S. pombe proteins or their functionally equivalent orthologues that act in the PKA pathway.
The endoplasmic reticulum/mitochondria interface: a subcellular platform for the orchestration of the functions of the PINK1–Parkin pathway?
Authors: Erpapazoglou Zoi , Corti Olga
Published: August 2015

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a hallmark of both idiopathic and familial Parkinson's disease (PD). Mutations in the PARK2 and PARK6 genes, coding for the cytosolic E3 ubiquitin protein ligase Parkin and the mitochondrial serine/threonine kinase PINK1 [phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN)-induced putative kinase 1], lead to clinically similar early-onset Parkinsonian syndromes. PINK1 and Parkin cooperate within a conserved pathway to preserve mitochondrial quality through the regulation of a variety of processes, including mitochondrial dynamics, transport, bioenergetics, biogenesis and turnover. The molecular mechanisms behind the orchestration of this plethora of functions remain poorly understood. In the present review, we emphasize the functional overlap between the PINK1–Parkin pathway and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-mitochondria interface, a subcellular compartment critically involved in neurodegeneration. We discuss how this compartment may constitute a hub for the spatiotemporal organization of the activities of the PINK1–Parkin pathway.
Method for computing state transformations of time‐delay systems
Authors: Huong Dinh Cong , Trinh Hieu
Published: August 2015

This study provides a systematic method for deriving state transformations of a class of time‐delay systems with multiple output. The significance of this study is that such state transformations can be used to transform time‐delay systems into new coordinates where all the time‐delay terms in the system description are associated with the output and input only. Therefore, in the new coordinate system, a Luenberger‐type state observer can be readily designed. Subsequently, of the three possible versions of the original state vector, namely, instantaneous, delayed, and a mixed of instantaneous and delayed, a state observer which estimates one of these versions can be obtained. This new finding allows the authors to design state observers for a wider class of time‐delay systems. Conditions for the existence of such coordinate changes and an effective algorithm for computing them are provided in this study. A numerical example and simulation results are given to illustrate the simplicity and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Regional observer synthesis for locally Lipschitz non‐linear systems
Authors: Rehan Muhammad , Hong Keum‐Shik
Published: August 2015

This study discusses a linear matrix inequality (LMI)‐based observer design for locally Lipschitz non‐linear systems that ensures an ellipsoidal region of stability in the estimation error, via a quadratic Lyapunov function analysis. An ellipsoidal Lipschitz region is defined in which a dynamical non‐linearity satisfies the Lipschitz condition locally. First, to provide a state feedback stabilisation scheme, the region of stability in terms of state of a non‐linear system is included in the ellipsoidal Lipschitz region, and LMIs are derived to ensure asymptotic stability. This novel state feedback stabilisation technique is broadened to the observer synthesis by defining a new region in the form of state estimation error, satisfying the ellipsoidal Lipschitz region. Further, under a bounded state operation, the region of convergence is included in the new region. Furthermore, a local robust observer synthesis methodology against bounded perturbations, for attaining multiple design objectives, is provided by ensuring the local exponential L2 stability of the estimation error. The proposed methodologies’ guaranteed regional stability, faster convergence, robustness against disturbances, ease of design, and computational simplicity make them superior from the traditional techniques. The results for the proposed schemes are validated by numerical simulations.
Feasibility study on signal separation for spontaneous alpha decay in LaBr3: Ce scintillator by signal peak-to-charge discrimination
Authors: Ogawara R. , Ishikawa M.
Published: August 2015

A novel analysis method named peak-to-charge ratio (Vp/Qtotal) discrimination, aiming at background rejection especially for alpha decay self-activity in LaBr3: Ce scintillators has been developed. This method is based on a waveform analysis using the peak-to-charge ratio in the output waveform of a photomultiplier tube. The discrimination of alpha-induced events was achieved by using a threshold function based on the error propagation of the Vp/Qtotal value. The accidental rejection ratio of gamma-induced events was evaluated to be 0.17%. Furthermore, a total absorption peak spectrum processed with the Vp/Qtotal discrimination method for 68Ga 1.883 MeV gamma rays, where the energy was overlapped with background alpha events, reproduced exactly the same result as that of the background subtraction method. The difference in measured peak counts of both methods was 0.716%, and the statistical error in the Vp/Qtotal discrimination method and background subtraction was 4.81% and 8.70%, respectively. Thus a higher-accuracy measurement could be achieved using the Vp/Qtotal discrimination method. The present study demonstrates that the Vp/Qtotal discrimination method is a promising method for background rejection of the spontaneous alpha decay in LaBr3: Ce scintillators.
Some free boundary problems involving non-local diffusion and aggregation
Authors: Carrillo José Antonio , Vázquez Juan Luis
Published: August 2015

We report on recent progress in the study of evolution processes involving degenerate parabolic equations which may exhibit free boundaries. The equations we have selected follow two recent trends in diffusion theory: considering anomalous diffusion with long-range effects, which leads to fractional operators or other operators involving kernels with large tails; and the combination of diffusion and aggregation effects, leading to delicate long-term equilibria whose description is still incipient.
Tumor‐related markers in histologically normal margins correlate with locally recurrent oral squamous cell carcinoma: a retrospective study
Authors: Wang Xinhong , Chen Si , Chen Xinming , Zhang Cuicui , Liang Xueyi
Published: August 2015

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is characterized by a high rate of local recurrence (LR) even when the surgical margins are considered histopathologically ‘normal’. The aim of our study was to determine the relationship between early tumor‐related markers detected in histologically normal margins (HNM) and LR as well as disease‐free survival in OSCC.

Methods

The loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of markers on 9p21 (D9s1747, RPS6, D9s162) and 17p13 (TP53) and the immunostaining results of the corresponding mutant P53, P14, P15, and P16 proteins were assessed and correlated with LR and disease‐free survival in 71 OSCC patients who had HNM.

Results

Fifteen of 71 patients with HNM developed LR. The presence of the following molecular markers in surgical margins was significantly correlated with the development of LR: LOH on chromosome 9p21 (D9s1747 + RPS6 + D9s162), any LOH, P16, and P53 (chi‐square test, P < 0.05). The presence of TP53 LOH, 9p21 LOH, any LOH, P15, P16, P53, P16 + D9s1747, and P53 + TP53 had a significant effect on LR (Kaplan–Meier analysis, P < 0.05). P16 + D9s1747 was the most predictive factor using multivariate Cox analyses.

Conclusions

Detection of tumor‐related markers in histologically ‘normal’ resection margins may be a useful method for assessing LR in OSCC patients.
Real-Time Computational Model of Ball-Milled Fractal Structures
Authors: Doumanidis Constantine C. , Gunduz I. E. , Rebholz Claus , Doumanidis Charalabos C.
Published: August 2015

Ball milling (BM) offers a flexible process for nanomanufacturing of reactive bimetallic multiscale particulates (nanoheaters) for self-heated microjoining engineering materials and biomedical tooling. This paper introduces a mechanics-based process model relating the chaotic dynamics of BM with the random fractal structures of the produced particulates, emphasizing its fundamental concepts, underlying assumptions, and computation methods. To represent Apollonian globular and lamellar structures, the simulation employs warped ellipsoidal (WE) primitives of elasto-plastic strain-hardening materials, with Maxwell–Boltzmann distributions of ball kinetics and thermal transformation of hysteretic plastic, frictional, and residual stored energetics. Interparticle collisions are modeled via modified Hertzian contact impact mechanics, with local plastic deformation yielding welded microjoints and resulting in cluster assembly into particulates. The model tracks the size and diversity of such particulate populations as the process evolves via sequential collision and integration events. The simulation was shown to run in real-time computation speeds on modest hardware, and match successfully the fractal dimension and contour shape of experimental ball-milled Al–Ni particulate micrographs. Thus, the model serves as a base for the design of a feedback control system for continuous BM.
High-energy magnetic excitations in cuprate superconductors
Authors: Kuang Lulin , Lan Yu , Zhao Huaisong , Feng Shiping
Published: August 2015

In this paper, the high-energy magnetic excitations in cuprate superconductors are studied based on the kinetic energy driven superconducting mechanism. The spin self-energy is evaluated explicitly in terms of the collective charge carrier modes in the particle–hole and particle–particle channels, and employed to calculate the dynamical spin structure factor. Our results show the existence of damped but well-defined dispersive spin excitations in the whole doping phase diagram. In particular, the charge carrier doping has a more modest effect on the high-energy spin excitations, and then the high-energy magnetic excitations retain roughly constant energy as a function of doping, with spectral weights and dispersion relations comparable to those found in the parent compound.
THE INTERPLAY OF DOMINANT LOGIC AND DYNAMIC CAPABILITIES IN INNOVATION ACTIVITIES
Authors: ELLONEN HANNA-KAISA , JANTUNEN ARI , JOHANSSON ANETTE
Published: August 2015

Within the strategic management literature, both managerial cognition and dynamic capabilities have been identified as drivers of change and transition in changing business environments. The purpose of this study is to explore the interplay of dominant logic and dynamic capabilities in the magazine publishing industry. We investigated four magazine publishing business units of a large media corporation situated in four different countries, namely Finland, the Netherlands, Hungary and Russia. A total of 40 magazine managers were interviewed. The results imply that dominant logic and dynamic capabilities coevolve in a reciprocal relationship, and the interplay of cognition and capabilities seems to be most visible in the seizing and reconfiguring capabilities. The results of the present study also illustrate that there may be several contradictory dominant logics within a single company. Dynamic capabilities useful to innovation processes are developed in the areas that are pinpointed by the managers as the locus of attention. Industry transition does not automatically change what companies think and do. That requires managerial attention and an active reconceptualization of the business and active development of not only day-to-day operations, but capabilities needed to change the way we work.
Coefficients of half-integral weight modular forms and indivisibility of class numbers of imaginary quadratic fields
Authors: Dai Haobo
Published: August 2015

In this paper, we investigate the nonvanishing coefficients of half-integral weight modular forms modulo a prime. We also consider the indivisibility of class numbers of imaginary quadratic fields.