bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Mutational Topology of the Bacterial Genome
Authors: Foster Patricia L , Hanson Andrew J , Lee Heewook , Popodi Ellen M , Tang Haixu
Published: March 2013

By sequencing the genomes of 34 mutation accumulation lines of a mismatch-repair defective strain of Escherichia coli that had undergone a total of 12,750 generations, we identified 1625 spontaneous base-pair substitutions spread across the E. coli genome. These mutations are not distributed at random but, instead, fall into a wave-like spatial pattern that is repeated almost exactly in mirror image in the two separately replicated halves of the bacterial chromosome. The pattern is correlated to genomic features, with mutation densities greatest in regions predicted to have high superhelicity. Superimposed upon this pattern are regional hotspots, some of which are located where replication forks may collide or be blocked. These results suggest that, as they traverse the chromosome, the two replication forks encounter parallel structural features that change the fidelity of DNA replication.
Novel Proteins Required for Meiotic Silencing by Unpaired DNA and siRNA Generation inNeurospora crassa
Authors: Hammond Thomas M , Xiao Hua , Boone Erin C , Decker Logan M , Lee Seung A , Perdue Tony D , Pukkila Patricia J , Shiu Patrick K T
Published: March 2013

During meiosis in the filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa, unpaired genes are identified and silenced by a process known as meiotic silencing by unpaired DNA (MSUD). Previous work has uncovered six proteins required for MSUD, all of which are also essential for meiotic progression. Additionally, they all localize in the perinuclear region, suggesting that it is a center of MSUD activity. Nevertheless, at least a subset of MSUD proteins must be present inside the nucleus, as unpaired DNA recognition undoubtedly takes place there. In this study, we identified and characterized two new proteins required for MSUD, namely SAD-4 and SAD-5. Both are previously uncharacterized proteins specific to Ascomycetes, with SAD-4 having a range that spans several fungal classes and SAD-5 seemingly restricted to a single order. Both genes appear to be predominantly expressed in the sexual phase, as molecular study combined with analysis of publicly available mRNA-seq datasets failed to detect significant expression of them in the vegetative tissue. SAD-4, like all known MSUD proteins, localizes in the perinuclear region of the meiotic cell. SAD-5, on the other hand, is found in the nucleus (as the first of its kind). Both proteins are unique compared to previously identified MSUD proteins in that neither is required for sexual sporulation. This homozygous-fertile phenotype uncouples MSUD from sexual development and allows us to demonstrate that both SAD-4 and SAD-5 are important for the production of masiRNAs, which are the small RNA molecules associated with meiotic silencing.
Identification of Small RNAs Associated with Meiotic Silencing by Unpaired DNA
Authors: Hammond Thomas M , Spollen William G , Decker Logan M , Blake Sean M , Springer Gordon K , Shiu Patrick K T
Published: March 2013

In Neurospora crassa, unpaired genes are silenced by a mechanism called meiotic silencing by unpaired DNA (MSUD). Although some RNA interference proteins are necessary for this process, its requirement of small RNAs has yet to be formally established. Here we report the characterization of small RNAs targeting an unpaired region, using Illumina sequencing.
The Innate Immune Response Transcription Factor Relish Is Necessary for Neurodegeneration in aDrosophilaModel of Ataxia-Telangiectasia
Authors: Petersen Andrew J , Katzenberger Rebeccah J , Wassarman David A
Published: March 2013

Neurodegeneration is a hallmark of the human disease ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) that is caused by mutation of the A-T mutated (ATM) gene. We have analyzed Drosophila melanogaster ATM mutants to determine the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration in A-T. Previously, we found that ATM mutants upregulate the expression of innate immune response (IIR) genes and undergo neurodegeneration in the central nervous system. Here, we present evidence that activation of the IIR is a cause of neurodegeneration in ATM mutants. Three lines of evidence indicate that ATM mutations cause neurodegeneration by activating the Nuclear Factor-κB (NF-κB) transcription factor Relish, a key regulator of the Immune deficiency (Imd) IIR signaling pathway. First, the level of upregulation of IIR genes, including Relish target genes, was directly correlated with the level of neurodegeneration in ATM mutants. Second, Relish mutations inhibited upregulation of IIR genes and neurodegeneration in ATM mutants. Third, overexpression of constitutively active Relish in glial cells activated the IIR and caused neurodegeneration. In contrast, we found that Imd and Dif mutations did not affect neurodegeneration in ATM mutants. Imd encodes an activator of Relish in the response to gram-negative bacteria, and Dif encodes an immune responsive NF-κB transcription factor in the Toll signaling pathway. These data indicate that the signal that causes neurodegeneration in ATM mutants activates a specific NF-κB protein and does so through an unknown activator. In summary, these findings suggest that neurodegeneration in human A-T is caused by activation of a specific NF-κB protein in glial cells.
Construindo o fazer gerontológico pelas enfermeiras das Unidades de Estratégia Saúde da Família
Authors: Polaro Sandra Helena Isse , Gonçalves Lúcia Hisako Takase , Alvarez Angela Maria
Published: March 2013

Este artigo teve como objetivo descrever como as enfermeiras percebem a construção de seu fazer gerontológico no âmbito da Estratégia Saúde da Família em um distrito de Belém-PA. Os dados foram coletados entre ago/2009 a fev/2010, por meio de entrevista com catorze enfermeiras, e tratados pelo método de análise de conteúdo, gerando temas (entre eles a matéria do presente artigo - construindo o fazer gerontológico) e subtemas: consulta de enfermagem, visita domiciliar, atenção à família, parcerias para ações integradas e atuação em ações consolidadas. Do resultado infere-se que as vivências do fazer gerontológico das enfermeiras em seu cotidiano de trabalho são dificultadas principalmente pela insegurança no trabalho devido à violência urbana, pela deficitária estrutura funcional dos serviços e falta de capacitação específica em gerontogeriatria. Contudo, elas vêm construindo um fazer gerontológico peculiar, criando estratégias de ações integradas, possíveis em cada situação que se apresenta no processo do trabalho, com base em conhecimentos gerais de enfermagem que advêm de formação geral.
Jovens trabalhadores: expectativas de acesso ao ensino superior
Authors: Corrochano Maria Carla
Published: March 2013

O presente artigo sustenta que as recentes transformações no ensino superior, especialmente no que se relaciona à ampliação da presença de jovens trabalhadores no meio universitário, tornam fundamental a retomada da categoria juventude nos estudos em torno desse nível de ensino, destacando a centralidade da categoria trabalho para sua constituição no Brasil. Tomando como referência um estudo realizado com jovens de baixa renda do Município de São Paulo, suas dificuldades e expectativas de acesso ao ensino superior, o artigo aponta a relevância e as limitações da atual expansão, bem como necessário um aprofundamento em torno da origem, das experiências e dos projetos dessa nova geração, que traz o ingresso no ensino superior como elemento essencial de sua trajetória desejada.
Educação superior: bem público, equidade e democratização
Authors: Dias Sobrinho José
Published: March 2013

A educação é um bem público, imprescindível e insubstituível, direito de todos e dever do Estado. É dever do Estado criar e oferecer condições efetivas para que isto se realize com a amplitude, a qualidade e a sustentabilidade necessárias e adequadas. Sendo bem público, a educação deve ser de qualidade. Esta é a base da discussão sobre democratização e políticas afirmativas. Por sua vez, a democratização e as políticas afirmativas da educação superior, como partes de um movimento muito mais amplo, impõem discutir um conceito de qualidade social, vinculado à pertinência, em contraposição a conceitos cientificistas e definições comprometidas com o mercado. Uma instituição educativa tem compromisso com o fortalecimento da democracia e deve ela mesma exercitar em seu cotidiano os conteúdos e formas da vida democrática. Não são muito precisos os limites do público e do privado, nem há consensos firmados sobre suas consequências na educação superior. Por isso é necessário discuti-los. De modo especial, importa examinar os limites e impactos da inclusão na educação superior de grupos tradicionalmente excluídos, em razão das escassas possibilidades de escolha de cursos de alto valor social e econômico, assim como as condições de permanência e de conclusão com qualidade e boas perspectivas de empregos. A inclusão desses grupos sociais vem acompanhada de sentimentos de ganhos e perdas. Cumpre uma essencial função social de incluir contingentes de indivíduos tradicionalmente excluídos, mas também pode estar contaminada por um fenômeno que pode ser chamado de "exclusão por dentro" do sistema educativo. Algumas das principais conclusões deste texto consistem em afirmar que a democratização da educação superior deve fazer parte da democratização da sociedade e da promoção da justiça social; não se restringe à ampliação do acesso, mas tem a ver com qualidade, pertinência e relevância social; além disso, a melhora da qualidade da educação superior está vinculada à ampliação e à elevação qualitativa de todo o sistema educativo e, mais amplamente, de transformações estruturais da sociedade. Portanto, é de responsabilidade coletiva.
Construção de instrumento para avaliação de cursos de pós-graduação
Authors: Vidor Gabriel , Fogliatto Flávio Sanson , Caten Carla ten
Published: March 2013

Este artigo tem como objetivo propor um método para avaliar cursos de pós-graduação em Instituições de Ensino Superior (IES). O método busca identificar, através de um questionário, critérios inibidores da qualidade e promotores da qualidade em cursos de pós-graduação. Critérios significativos nos dois blocos são identificados através de uma Análise Fatorial. Em um segundo passo, esses critérios são contemplados através de ações que atendem as demandas identificadas. O método proposto é ilustrado através de um estudo de caso. Ao final do estudo pode-se constatar a eficiência da Análise Fatorial como técnica auxiliar à tomada de decisão por parte da IES.
Diferenciais intraurbanos na distribuição de dengue em Cuiabá, 2007 e 2008
Authors: Souza Ludmila Sophia , Barata Rita de Cássia Barradas
Published: March 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: Cuiabá apresenta inúmeros casos de dengue tanto nos períodos endêmicos quanto nas epidemias cíclicas. O objetivo do estudo foi analisar os diferenciais intra-urbanos da incidência em 2007 e 2008 relacionando-os com as condições socioeconômicas e socioambientais. MÉTODO: estudo de abordagem ecológica usando dados secundários. A caracterização das condições de vida foi feita com dados do Censo Demográfico (IBGE, 2000) e os dados epidemiológicos foram obtidos no Sistema Nacional de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN). O índice socioeconômico mediu escolaridade, renda dos responsáveis pelos domicílios permanentes e aglomeração domiciliar; o índice socioambiental usou informações relativas ao saneamento básico e à proporção de domicílios precários. Os índices foram elaborados a partir da classificação das variáveis em quintis e atribuição de pontos para cada quintil. A pontuação por bairro foi resultante da soma dos pontos para cada variável. Os bairros foram classificados em estratos de risco a partir da combinação de resultados dos dois índices. RESULTADOS: A incidência foi menor nos estratos de risco médio e baixo, e alta no estrato de risco muito alto; entretanto, foi maior do que a esperada no estrato de risco mínimo, indicando dissociação entre condições de vida e ocorrência da doença. CONCLUSÃO: Maiores incidências da dengue em Cuiabá nos anos de 2007 e 2008 foram observadas em locais com precárias condições de saneamento ambiental e habitados por populações com menor nível de renda e escolaridade, embora não exista correlação linear entre condições de vida e incidência.
Condição de urgência odontológica e fatores associados em trabalhadores da construção civil: Bahia, 2008
Authors: Lima Luisa Silva , Silva Kátia Maria Gally , Mello Manuela Vanessa Fernandes Moreira , Santos Mércia Sacramento dos , Araújo Maristela Santos , Cangussu Maria Cristina Teixeira
Published: March 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: O ramo da construção civil lidera as taxas de acidentes de trabalho e a sua força produtiva caracteriza-se por empregar, a baixo custo, um número significativo de força de trabalho masculina com reduzido nível de escolaridade. Em relação à saúde bucal, percebe-se que este grupo apresenta problemas bucais relevantes, que podem culminar em urgências odontológicas. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar a condição de urgência odontológica e os fatores sociodemográficos associados, em trabalhadores da construção civil de empresas de Salvador-BA e região metropolitana, atendidos pelo SESI-BA. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Conduziu-se um estudo transversal com dados de 1057 trabalhadores, examinados no ano de 2008. Procedeu-se à análise descritiva de indicadores sociodemográficos e indicadores de saúde bucal, e ao teste de associação do qui-quadrado. A análise multivariada foi realizada e todas as variáveis que mostraram significância estatística com um p < 0,15 foram consideradas no modelo saturado da Análise de Regressão de Poisson Robusta. RESULTADO: Observou-se um percentual de 14% de condição de urgência e associação positiva com alta atividade de cárie (RP = 1,98 IC95% 1,32-2,64 p = 0,00) e menor grau de escolaridade (RP = 1,48 IC95% 1,01-1,95 p = 0,04). CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados mostram a necessidade do desenvolvimento de ações para tratamento dos problemas bucais instalados e ações de prevenção e promoção em saúde para melhorar a condição de saúde bucal de trabalhadores da construção civil.
Desenvolvimento de material de referência para microbiologia de alimentos contendo estafilococos coagulase positiva em matriz queijo
Authors: Brandão Marcelo Luiz Lima , Costa Juliana de Castro Beltrão da , Farias Felipe Miceli de , Rosas Carla de Oliveira , Bricio Silvia Maria Lopes , Nascimento Janaína dos Santos , Cardarelli-Leite Paola
Published: March 2013

O uso de materiais de referência (MR) é uma das principais ferramentas utilizadas para garantia e controle da qualidade de laboratórios de microbiologia de alimentos. No Brasil, a RDC n.º 12/01 da Anvisa prevê como um dos parâmetros para a avaliação da qualidade de queijos a enumeração de estafilococos coagulase positiva (ECP). O grande desafio na produção de MR destinados a ensaios microbiológicos é a instabilidade natural dos micro-organismos, o que dificulta o desenvolvimento e a manutenção desses MR. O objetivo deste estudo foi produzir um MR quantitativo destinado ao ensaio de enumeração de ECP em matriz queijo. Uma amostra de queijo ultrafiltrado com contagem de ECP <10 UFC/g e número de aeróbios viáveis de 1,22 × 10³ UFC/g foi utilizada como matriz para produção do MR. A matriz foi distribuída em frascos, contaminada com a bactéria alvo em concentração específica e submetida à liofilização. Como crioprotetor, foi utilizada sacarose. O MR produzido foi considerado homogêneo e estável à temperatura < -70 ºC durante todo o período estudado (dez meses). O material apresentou estabilidade a 4, 25, 30 e 35 ºC durante quatro dias; contudo, os resultados indicam que, a 35 ºC, ocorre um decréscimo na concentração celular. A -20 ºC, o MR apresentou-se estável durante 48 dias. Conclui-se que o material apresentou todos os requisitos necessários de um MR de qualidade e poderia ser transportado aos laboratórios participantes de um ensaio de proficiência a temperaturas de até 35 ºC por até quatro dias, uma vez que os resultados indicaram a manutenção da concentração celular neste período. Esse foi o primeiro trabalho a descrever uma metodologia de produção de MR contendo ECP em matriz queijo.
Relação entre atividade de plasmina e frações de caseína durante o armazenamento do leite longa vida
Authors: Corassin Carlos Humberto , Rosim Roice Eliana , Kobashigawa Estela , Fernandes Andrezza Maria , Oliveira Carlos Augusto Fernandes de
Published: March 2013

Este estudo teve como objetivo correlacionar a atividade da plasmina e as concentrações de frações de caseína no leite longa vida (UAT) produzido em usina de beneficiamento do Estado de São Paulo. O leite cru foi submetido à pasteurização (72-76 ºC, 15-20 segundos), seguida da esterilização por processo de injeção direta de vapor (132-136 ºC, 34 segundos), sendo homogeneizado e envasado assepticamente em embalagens cartonadas. Quatro lotes de UAT foram analisados para atividade de plasmina e frações de caseína após 10, 30, 60, 90 e 120 dias de armazenamento. A atividade de plasmina no leite longa vida aumentou durante o armazenamento, correlacionando-se negativamente com a concentração de αs1-caseína. A atividade da plasmina apresenta resistência à esterilização do leite pelo processo UAT e aumenta a proteólise do leite longa vida como consequência da degradação da αs1-caseína.
Protocols and Guidelines for Field-scale Measurement of Soil Salinity Distribution with ECa-Directed Soil Sampling
Authors: Corwin Dennis L. , Lesch Scott M.
Published: March 2013

Soil salinity is a spatially complex and dynamic property of soil that influences crop yields when the threshold salinity level is exceeded. The mapping and monitoring of soil salinity is necessary for reclamation, crop selection, and site-specific irrigation management of salt-affected soils in the arid and semi-arid agricultural regions of the world. Because of its spatial and temporal heterogeneity, soil salinity is difficult to map and monitor at field scales. There are various methods for characterizing soil salinity variability, but none of these approaches has been as extensively investigated and is as reliable and cost effective as apparent soil electrical conductivity (ECa) directed soil sampling. Geospatial measurements of ECa are well-suited for characterizing soil salinity spatial distribution because they are reliable, quick, and easy to take with GPS-based mobilized ECa measurement equipment. However, ECa is influenced by a variety of soil properties, which makes the measurement of soil salinity at field scale problematic. It is the goal of this review and analysis paper to provide an overview of the field-scale characterization of soil salinity distribution using ECa-directed soil sampling. Guidelines, special considerations, protocols, and strengths and limitations are presented for characterizing spatial and temporal variation in soil salinity using ECa-directed soil sampling. Original data is presented showing the critical importance of conducting ECa surveys at or near field capacity (≥70% of field capacity). A case study of a 32.4-ha field in San Jacinto, California, is provided as an example to demonstrate the effectiveness of generating soil salinity maps. Land resource managers, farmers, extension specialists, and Natural Resource Conservation Service field staff are the beneficiaries of field-scale maps of soil salinity.
Effect of O3 and O3/H2O2 on algae harvesting using chitosan
Authors: Pranowo R. , Lee D. J. , Liu J. C. , Chang J. S.
Published: March 2013

We examined the effects of pre-oxidation using ozone (O3) and a combination of O3 and hydrogen peroxide (O3/H2O2) on algae suspensions and their harvesting. Inactivation of algae cells, release of intracellular organic matter (IOM), mineralization of extracellular organic matter (EOM), and changes in molecular weight distribution of EOM were found after pre-oxidation. Enhanced separation efficiency of turbidity, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), protein, and polysaccharide using chitosan and polyaluminum chloride (PACl) was found after pre-oxidation, especially when algae cells were subject to O3/H2O2. Chitosan showed higher efficiency than PACl. Judging from the remarkable increase in floc size, it was proposed that released IOM formed complexes with cationic chitosan and resulted in enhanced dual flocculation and facilitated algae separation.
Irrigated agriculture and groundwater resources – towards an integrated vision and sustainable relationship
Authors: Foster Stephen , Garduño Héctor
Published: March 2013

Globally, irrigated agriculture is the largest abstractor, and predominant consumer, of groundwater resources, with large groundwater-dependent agro-economies now having widely evolved especially in Asia. Such use is also causing resource depletion and degradation in more arid and drought-prone regions. In addition crop cultivation practices on irrigated land exert a major influence on groundwater recharge. The interrelationship is such that cross-sector action is required to agree more sustainable land and water management policies, and this paper presents an integrated vision of the challenges in this regard. It is recognised that ‘institutional arrangements’ are critical to the local implementation of management policies, although the focus here is limited to the conceptual understanding needed for formulation of an integrated policy and some practical interventions required to promote more sustainable groundwater irrigation.
Linking near- and far-field hydrodynamic models for simulation of desalination plant brine discharges
Authors: Botelho D. A. , Barry M. E. , Collecutt G. C. , Brook J. , Wiltshire D.
Published: March 2013

A desalination plant is proposed to be the major water supply to the Olympic Dam Expansion Mining project. Located in the Upper Spencer Gulf, South Australia, the site was chosen due to the existence of strong currents and their likely advantages in terms of mixing and dilution of discharged return water. A high-resolution hydrodynamic model (Estuary, Lake and Coastal Ocean Model, ELCOM) was constructed and, through a rigorous review process, was shown to reproduce the intricate details of the Spencer Gulf dynamics, including those characterising the discharge site. Notwithstanding this, it was found that deploying typically adopted ‘direct insertion’ techniques to simulate the brine discharge within the hydrodynamic model was problematic. Specifically, it was found that in this study the direct insertion technique delivered highly conservative brine dilution predictions in and around the proposed site, and that these were grid and time-step dependent. To improve the predictive capability, a strategy to link validated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) predictions to hydrodynamic simulations was devised. In this strategy, environmental conditions from ELCOM were used to produce boundary conditions for execution of a suite of CFD simulations. In turn, the CFD simulations provided the brine dilutions and flow rates to be applied in ELCOM. In order to conserve mass in a system-wide sense, artificial salt sinks were introduced to the ELCOM model such that salt quantities were conserved. As a result of this process, ELCOM predictions were naturally very similar to CFD predictions near the diffuser, whilst at the same time they produced an area of influence (further afield) comparable to direct insertion methods. It was concluded that the linkage of the models, in comparison to direct insertion methods, constituted a more realistic and defensible alternative to predict the far-field dispersion of outfall discharges, particularly with regards to the estimation of brine dilution in the immediate vicinity of an outfall location.
Application of magnetic enhanced bio-effect on nitrification: a comparative study of magnetic and non-magnetic carriers
Authors: Yao Chuang , Lei Heng-Yi , Yu Qiang , Li Shu-Ping , Li Hua-Liang , Chen Kai , Zhang Xing-Hong
Published: March 2013

A novel magnetic carrier with surface magnetic field of 4 mT was developed for studying the magnetic enhanced bio-effect on nitrification. The bio-effect on nitrificaton induced by the magnetic carrier was studied by comparing the performance of sequencing batch biofilm reactors filled with magnetic (MC) and non-magnetic (NMC) carriers. The result showed that the bioreactor with MC had better performance for nitrification than bioreactor with NMC. During the biofilm culturing period, the time required for nitrification formation in biofilm of the MC reactor was 25% less than that for the NMC reactor. The results also showed that the ammonium oxidation rate of the MC reactor was 1.6-fold faster than that in the NMC reactor at high influent NH4-N concentration, while nitrite oxidation rate was always accelerated regardless of influent NH4-N concentration. The specific oxygen uptake rate analysis revealed that ammonia and nitrite oxidation activities in biofilm of the MC reactor were 1.65 and 1.98 times greater than those of the NMC reactor, respectively.
Compression of Khalimsky topological spaces
Authors: Kang Min , Han Sang-Eon
Published: March 2013

Aiming at the study of the compression of Khalimsky topological spaces which
is an interesting field in digital geometry and computer science, the present
paper develops a new homotopy thinning suitable for the work. Since Khalimsky
continuity of maps between Khalimsky topological spaces has some limitations
of performing a discrete geometric transformation, the paper uses another
continuity (see Definition 3.4) that can support the discrete geometric
transformation and a homotopic thinning suitable for studying Khalimsky
topological spaces. By using this homotopy, we can develop a new homotopic
thinning for compressing the spaces and can write an algorithm for
compressing 2D Khalimsky topological spaces.
Semi-continuous function versions of Urysohn Lemma
Authors: Xie Li-Hong
Published: March 2013

Some characterizations of semi-stratifiable and k-semi-stratifiable spaces in
terms of semi-continuous functions, analogous to Urysohn Lemma, were
established in this paper. Some applications of them in the insertion of
functions are given as well.
Spectral determination of some chemical graphs
Authors: Bu Changjiang , Zhou Jiang , Li Hongbo
Published: March 2013

Let Tk denote the caterpillar obtained by attaching k pendant edges at two
pendant vertices of the path Pn and two pendant edges at the other vertices
of Pn. It is proved that Tk is determined by its signless Laplacian spectrum
when k = 2 or 3, while T2 by its Laplacian spectrum.
The number of restricted lattice paths revisited
Authors: Prodinger Helmut
Published: March 2013

Ilic and Ilic have recently discussed lattice paths starting and ending at
the x-axis which are bounded by two horizontal lines. We establish a link of
this to an old paper by Panny and Prodinger where this was already treated.
Screenableness in countable products
Authors: Wang Jianjun , Zhu Peiyong
Published: March 2013

In this note, it is shown that the product ? n?u Xn is screenable if {Xn : n??}
is a countable collection of Cech-scattered screenable spaces. And a group
of equivalent conditions of screenableness of products is obtained.
Stability analysis of uncertain stochastic systems with interval time-varying delays and nonlinear uncertainties via augmented Lyapunov functional
Authors: Jeetendra R. , Vivin Vernold
Published: March 2013

In this work, the problem of delay-dependent stability for uncertain
stochastic systems with interval time-varying delays and nonlinear
uncertainties is addressed. The parameter uncertainties are assumed to be
norm bounded and the delay is assumed to be time-varying and belong to a
given interval, which means that the lower and upper bounds of interval
time-varying delays are available. By constructing an augmented Lyapunov
functional, a new delay interval-dependent stability criterion for the system
is obtained in terms of Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMIs). Comparisons are
made through numerical examples and less conservatism results are reported.
Bounded operators on topological vector spaces and their spectral radii
Authors: Hejazian Shirin , Mirzavaziri Madjid , Zabeti Omid
Published: March 2013

In this paper, we consider three classes of bounded linear operators on a
topological vector space with respect to three different topologies which are
introduced by Troitsky. We obtain some properties for the spectral radii of a
linear operator on a topological vector space. We find some sufficient
conditions for the completeness of these classes of operators. Finally, as a
special application, we deduce some sufficient conditions for invertibility
of a bounded linear operator.
Sustainable tourism development in the Carpathian region in Serbia
Authors: Popovic Vesna , Milijic Sasa , Vukovic Predrag
Published: March 2013

This paper analyzes natural and anthropogenic tourism resources in the
Carpathian region in Serbia, as well as legal and institutional frameworks
which need to be strengthened with the aim of ensuring sustainable tourism
development of the region. The sustainable tourism development will
necessitate the linking of stakeholders within and at the level of the
region, along with an adequate support at the national level in order to take
advantage of numerous opportunities offered by an increasingly intense
cross-border cooperation. Taking into account the greater number of protected
areas and those planned to be protected in the Carpathian region, as well as
specificities of tourism development in these areas, special attention in the
paper has been given to sustainable tourism development of protected areas.
Water, society and urbanization in the 19th century Belgrade: Lessons for adaptation to the climate change
Authors: Corovic Dragana , Blagojevic Ljiljana
Published: March 2013

This paper traces urban history of Belgrade in the 19th century by looking
into its waterscape in the context of its transformation as the capital of
the Princedom of Serbia. Aiming to underline the importance of water as a
resource, with the view to contemporary environmental concerns, we explore
how citizens historically related to waterscape in everyday life and created
a specific socio-spatial water network through use of public baths on the
river banks and public fountains, water features and devices in the city. The
paper outlines the process of establishing the first modern public water
supply system on the foundations of the city?s historical Roman, Austrian and
Ottoman waterworks. It also looks at the Topcider River as the most telling
example of degradation of a culturally and historically significant urban
watercourse from its natural, pastoral and civic past to its current polluted
and hazardous state. Could the restitution of the Topcider River be
considered as a legacy of sustainability for future generations, and are
there lessons to be learned from the urban history which can point to methods
of contemporary water management?
Ventilation via Cut Nasotracheal Tube During General Anesthesia
Authors: Asahi Yoshinao , Omichi Shiro , Adachi Seita , Kagamiuchi Hajime , Kotani Junichiro
Published: March 2013

Many patients with disabilities need recurrent dental treatment under general anesthesia because of high caries prevalence and the nature of dental treatment. We evaluated the use of a nasal device as a possible substitute for flexible laryngeal mask airway to reduce the risk of unexpected failure accompanying intubation; we succeeded in ventilating the lungs with a cut nasotracheal tube (CNT) with its tip placed in the pharynx. We hypothesized that this technique would be useful during dental treatment under general anesthesia and investigated its usefulness as part of a minimally invasive technique. A prospective study was designed using general anesthesia in 37 dental patients with disabilities such as intellectual impairment, autism, and cerebral palsy. CNT ventilation was compared with mask ventilation with the patient in 3 positions: the neck in flexion, horizontal position, and in extension. The effect of mouth gags was also recorded during CNT ventilation. The percentages of cases with effective ventilation were similar for the 2 techniques in the neck extension and horizontal positions (89.2–97.3%). However, CNT ventilation was significantly more effective than mask ventilation in the neck flexion position (94.6 vs 45.9%; P < .0001). Mouth gags slightly reduced the rate of effective ventilation in the neck flexion position. Most dental treatments involving minor oral surgeries were performed using mouth gags during CNT ventilation. CNT ventilation was shown to be superior to mask ventilation and is useful during dental treatment under general anesthesia.
Multifidus and Paraspinal Muscle Group Cross-Sectional Areas of Patients With Low Back Pain and Control Patients: A Systematic Review With a Focus on Blinding
Authors: Fortin Maryse , Macedo Luciana Gazzi
Published: March 2013

Background

Several studies have investigated differences in paraspinal muscle morphology between patients with low back pain (LBP) and control patients. However, inconsistencies in the results of some of these studies may limit generalizations.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to systematically review studies evaluating paraspinal muscle morphology in patients with LBP and control patients, with a focus on the effects of blinding.

Data Sources

An electronic search was performed with the use of relevant databases. Study quality was evaluated by means of the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale.

Study Selection

Case-control studies investigating paraspinal muscle size between patients with LBP and control patients who were healthy were included. Studies that compared paraspinal muscle size between symptomatic and asymptomatic sides of patients with unilateral LBP also were included.

Data Extraction

Studies investigating the same outcome—at the same spinal level and for the same muscle and population—were pooled. Mean differences with 95% confidence interval were calculated for each study.

Data Synthesis

Eleven studies were included. With 1 exception, all pooled results were significantly different statistically between groups, suggesting that paraspinal muscles are smaller in patients with chronic LBP than in control patients and on the symptomatic side of patients with chronic unilateral LBP. In patients with acute unilateral LBP, there was no significant difference between sides. A qualitative examination demonstrated a trend toward an increased effect size when outcome assessors were unblinded.

Limitations

Limitations of this review include the small number of studies included and their small sample size. Misclassification of blinding status may have occurred when the study did not report blinding status.

Conclusions

Evidence suggests that paraspinal muscles are significantly smaller in patients with chronic LBP than in control patients. Although no definite conclusion could be taken as to the effects of blinding, future imaging studies should consider the use of blinded outcome assessors.
Interaction of Tillage System and Irrigation Amount on Peanut Performance in the Southeastern U.S
Authors: Faircloth W. H. , Rowland D. L. , Lamb M. C. , Balkcom K. S.
Published: March 2013

A five-year study to investigate the potential interaction of conservation tillage with reduced irrigation amounts was conducted near Dawson, GA on peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Conventional tillage was compared to two conservation tillage programs (wide-strip and narrow-strip tillage) under four irrigation levels (100, 66, 33, and 0% of a recommended amount). Peanut yield did not exhibit a tillage by irrigation interaction as expected, although the main effects of irrigation and tillage were each significant by year due to weather variations. Peanut yield in narrow-strip tillage or wide-strip tillage were individually superior to conventional tillage in three seasons out of five, however only in one year did both conservation tillage systems outperform the conventional system. No detrimental effects on yields could be attributed to conservation tillage. Peanut quality and digging loss were dependent on the tillage by year effect as well as the main effect of irrigation. Irrigation increased total sound mature kernels (TSMK) 2% versus non-irrigated (0% irrigation level); tillage was not significant each year of the study but increased TSMK 2% in three of five years. Digging losses were greater in plots with increased yield potential such as those receiving irrigation. Net economic returns revealed a moderate trend towards sustained profitability under reduced irrigation levels through narrow-strip tillage and to a lesser extent, wide-strip tillage. Under conventional tillage systems, returns decreased with decreasing amounts of irrigation applied.
Effects of Female Body Size and Phylogeny on Avian Nest Dimensions
Authors: Deeming D. C.
Published: March 2013

This study used records collated from the literature to examine the relationships for nest dimensions and female body mass and to ascertain the impact of phylogenetic relatedness. Large bird species do build bigger nests than smaller bird species but they tend to be broader with shallower cups. Differences between passerines and non-passerines are observed for most nest dimensions; nest cup diameter scales to the cube root of female body mass and is unaffected by this high level of taxonomic distinction. Lower taxonomic levels, i.e. Order and Family, have significant but varying effects on the different nest dimensions. The nest materials define the space occupied by the eggs and incubating bird and would offer structural support. It is not possible to dismiss a role for various nest materials conferring a different insulatory property to the nest that is unrelated to its structure alone.
The Energetic Costs of Nest Building in Birds
Authors: Mainwaring Mark C. , Hartley Ian R.
Published: March 2013

Parental investment in reproduction is generally limited by the availability of food and so avian life-history research has generally focused on the brood rearing phase, when food requirements are greatest. Only relatively recently has the focus extended to the incubation phase and, even more recently, to the nest-building phase where there is now observational, comparative and experimental evidence that avian nest building is an energetically and temporally expensive activity. This review emphasises that nest construction is energetically expensive and we suggest that such costs should be incorporated into avian life-history research.
Timing and Stages of Nest-building by Marsh Tits (Poecile Palustris) in a Primeval Forest
Authors: Wesołowski Tomasz
Published: March 2013

The date of laying the first egg in a nest is conventionally taken as the date of breeding commencement in birds. However, to start egg-laying most birds first have to build a nest. As nest construction consumes time and energy, it could interfere with other activities, and beginning nest-building too late could delay egg-laying. How birds decide on when to begin nest building and how they allocate time to the different stages of the construction process remains poorly understood. Here I analyse factors influencing the timing of nest-building initiation and temporal arrangement of construction stages in the Marsh Tit ( Poecile palustris), a small non-excavating hole-nester. Data were gathered in primeval fragments of the Białowieża National Park (Eastern Poland). The temporal pattern of Marsh Tit nest building behaviour was highly versatile, varying between and within years (younger females commenced later). In warm springs, nest building started earlier but birds built nests at slower rates than in the late seasons. Marsh Tits often built nests ahead of time appropriate for egg laying, indicating that the timing of breeding in this population was not constrained by nest building activities. It is suggested that the tactic “build in advance, then wait for the right time for laying” could be widespread among sedentary birds, especially among ones which build nests in enclosed places.
Recent Developments in Experimental Techniques for Measuring Two Pulses Simultaneously
Authors: Wong Tsz , Trebino Rick
Published: March 2013

As many high-intensity ultrafast-optical measurements involve more than one pulse—typically one to excite a medium under study and another to probe it—a technique for measuring two pulses simultaneously is highly desirable. In two decades, two-pulse measurement techniques have advanced from ambiguity-laden to a recently developed technique that can measure a pulse pair with arbitrary central wavelengths, complexities and bandwidths. Here, we review recent efforts to simultaneously measure two ultrashort laser pulses using a single device.
Generation of Light Scattering States in Cholesteric Liquid Crystals by Optically Controlled Boundary Conditions
Authors: Vernon Jonathan , Serak Svetlana , Hakobyan Rafael , Tondiglia Vincent , White Timothy , Tabiryan Nelson , Bunning Timothy
Published: March 2013

Circularly polarized light was previously employed to stimulate the reversible and reconfigurable writing of scattering states in cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) cells constructed with a photosensitive layer. Such dynamic photodriven responses have utility in remotely triggering changes in optical constructs responsive to optical stimulus and applications where complex spatial patterning is required. Writing of scattering regions required the handedness of incoming radiation to match the handedness of the CLC and the reflection bandwidth of the CLC to envelop the wavelength of the incoming radiation. In this paper, the mechanism of transforming the CLC into a light scattering state via the influence of light on the photosensitive alignment layer is detailed. Specifically, the effects of: (i) the polarization state of light on the photosensitive alignment layer; (ii) the exposure time; and (iii) the incidence angle of radiation on domain formation are reported. The photogenerated light-scattering domains are shown to be similar in appearance between crossed polarizers to a defect structure that occurs at a CLC/air interface (i.e., a free CLC surface). This observation provides strong indication that exposure of the photosensitive alignment layer to the circularly polarized light of appropriate wavelength and handedness generates an out-of-plane orientation leading to a periodic distortion of the original planar structure.
Comparative Analysis of Serum (Anti)oxidative Status Parаmeters in Healthy Persons
Authors: Jansen Eugène , Ruskovska Tatjana
Published: March 2013

Five antioxidant and two oxidative stress assays were applied to serum samples of 43 healthy males. The antioxidant tests showed different inter-assay correlations. A very good correlation of 0.807 was observed between the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) and total antioxidant status (TAS) assay and also a fair correlation of 0.501 between the biological antioxidant potential (BAP) and TAS assay. There was no statistically significant correlation between the BAP and FRAP assay. The anti-oxidant assays have a high correlation with uric acid, especially the TAS (0.922) and FRAP assay (0.869). The BAP assay has a much lower and no statistically significant correlation with uric acid (0.302), which makes BAP more suitable for the antioxidant status. The total thiol assay showed no statistically significant correlation with uric acid (0.114). The total thiol assay, which is based on a completely different principle, showed a good and statistically significant correlation with the BAP assay (0.510) and also to the TAS assay, but to a lower and not significant extent (0.279) and not with the FRAP assay (−0.008). The oxy-adsorbent test (OXY) assay has no correlation with any of the other assays tested. The oxidative stress assays, reactive oxygen metabolites (ROM) and total oxidant status (TOS), based on a different principle, do not show a statistically significant correlation with the serum samples in this study. Both assays showed a negative, but not significant, correlation with the antioxidant assays. In conclusion, the ROM, TOS, BAP and TTP assays are based on different principles and will have an additional value when a combination of these assays will be applied in large-scale population studies.
The Lipid Transfer Protein StarD7: Structure, Function, and Regulation
Authors: Flores-Martin Jésica , Rena Viviana , Angeletti Sofía , Panzetta-Dutari Graciela , Genti-Raimondi Susana
Published: March 2013

The steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein-related lipid transfer (START) domain proteins constitute a family of evolutionarily conserved and widely expressed proteins that have been implicated in lipid transport, metabolism, and signaling. The 15 well-characterized mammalian START domain-containing proteins are grouped into six subfamilies. The START domain containing 7 mRNA encodes StarD7, a member of the StarD2/phosphatidylcholine transfer protein (PCTP) subfamily, which was first identified as a gene overexpressed in a choriocarcinoma cell line. Recent studies show that the StarD7 protein facilitates the delivery of phosphatidylcholine to the mitochondria. This review summarizes the latest advances in StarD7 research, focusing on the structural and biochemical features, protein-lipid interactions, and mechanisms that regulate StarD7 expression. The implications of the role of StarD7 in cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation are also discussed.
Gold-Coated Iron Composite Nanospheres Targeted the Detection of Escherichia coli
Authors: Tamer Ugur , Cetin Demet , Suludere Zekiye , Boyaci Ismail , Temiz Havva , Yegenoglu Hande , Daniel Philippe , Dinçer İlker , Elerman Yalçın
Published: March 2013

We report the preparation and characterization of spherical core-shell structured Fe3O4–Au magnetic nanoparticles, modified with two component self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) consisting of 3–mercaptophenylboronic acid (3–MBA) and 1–decanethiol (1–DT). The rapid and room temperature synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles was achieved using the hydroxylamine reduction of HAuCl4 on the surface of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-immobilized iron (magnetite Fe3O4) nanoparticles in the presence of an aqueous solution of hexadecyltrimetylammonium bromide (CTAB) as a dispersant. The reduction of gold on the surface of Fe3O4 nanoparticles exhibits a uniform, highly stable, and narrow particle size distribution of Fe3O4–Au nanoparticles with an average diameter of 9 ± 2 nm. The saturation magnetization value for the resulting nanoparticles was found to be 15 emu/g at 298 K. Subsequent surface modification with SAMs against glucoside moieties on the surface of bacteria provided effective magnetic separation. Comparison of the bacteria capturing efficiency, by means of different molecular recognition agents 3–MBA, 1–DT and the mixed monolayer of 3–MBA and 1–DT was presented. The best capturing efficiency of E. coli was achieved with the mixed monolayer of 3–MBA and 1–DT-modified nanoparticles. Molecular specificity and selectivity were also demonstrated by comparing the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectrum of E. coli-nanoparticle conjugates with bacterial growth media.