bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNAs in Amoebozoa: Deep sequencing of the small RNA population in the social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum reveals developmentally regulated microRNAs
Authors: Avesson Lotta , Reimegård Johan , Wagner E. Gerhart H. , Söderbom Fredrik
Published: August 2012

The RNA interference machinery has served as a guardian of eukaryotic genomes since the divergence from prokaryotes. Although the basic components have a shared origin, silencing pathways directed by small RNAs have evolved in diverse directions in different eukaryotic lineages. Micro (mi)RNAs regulate protein-coding genes and play vital roles in plants and animals, but less is known about their functions in other organisms. Here, we report, for the first time, deep sequencing of small RNAs from the social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum. RNA from growing single-cell amoebae as well as from two multicellular developmental stages was sequenced. Computational analyses combined with experimental data reveal the expression of miRNAs, several of them exhibiting distinct expression patterns during development. To our knowledge, this is the first report of miRNAs in the Amoebozoa supergroup. We also show that overexpressed miRNA precursors generate miRNAs and, in most cases, miRNA* sequences, whose biogenesis is dependent on the Dicer-like protein DrnB, further supporting the presence of miRNAs in D. discoideum. In addition, we find miRNAs processed from hairpin structures originating from an intron as well as from a class of repetitive elements. We believe that these repetitive elements are sources for newly evolved miRNAs.
Improved Curve Fitting Methods for Underdamped Slug Tests
Authors: Chapuis Robert P.
Published: August 2012

A slug test yielding an oscillating water level response is called “underdamped.” Usually, test data are fitted visually to theoretical solutions. Considering that visual fits are user dependent, this paper provides two best fit user independent methods for analyzing test data. It provides also a velocity graph method that can be used to select only those data that are not influenced by initial dynamic effects such as splashing. Several examples are provided, with emphasis on the utility of the three checks required by ASTM D5785. It is shown that the selected value of the soil modulus or its storativity S does not interfere with the fitting process but does influence the derived k value by about ±30% (the lower the selected S value, the higher the resulting k value). If the elastic S value is confused with a specific yield, the interpretation results do not pass the three checks of ASTM D5785, and, as shown by an example of a few hundred tests, they might yield k values that are wrong by about 300%, with serious consequences for estimates of groundwater velocity and the fate of contaminants.
Investigation on Characteristics of Internal Structure of Early-age Concrete by Non-destructive Testing
Authors: Shui Zhonghe , Ding Sha , Chen Wei , Li Kai , Lu Jianxin
Published: August 2012

Non-destructive methods such as ultrasonic wave, impact echo, and ground penetrating radar were used to study the internal structure of early-age concrete. The results indicate that the ultrasonic, stress, and electromagnetic wave velocity can reflect well the variation of the internal structure in concrete. With the influence of cement hydration, it is obvious that the three wave velocity increases and the dielectric constant decreases in the first 28 days. However, the changing of these characteristics tends to slow down with cement hydration. Results of compressive strength tests show that the combination of the three methods can accurately probe changes in the internal concrete structure at early ages. In addition, structural defects and the above steel bars in reinforced concrete were also investigated using ground penetrating radar together with the impact echo method.
Comparative Study on Laboratory Performance of Hot- and Warm-mix Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Tan Yiqiu , Guo Meng , Xu Huining , Zhang Rui
Published: August 2012

In an effort to study sustainable environmentally friendly pavement, the physical mechanics and road performance of warm-mix asphalt mixtures based on an emulsifying platform were studied via the Marshall design method. The results show that the optimum asphalt content of warm-mix asphalt mixtures is generally higher than that of hot-mix asphalt mixtures by 0.1 % to 0.2 %; the values of the stability, bulk specific gravity, air voids, and voids in mineral aggregate do not change significantly; and the number of voids filled with asphalt and the flow value increase a little. The residual stability value of warm-mix asphalt mixtures increases, whereas the freeze–thaw splitting strength decreases. The high-temperature performance and seepage performance of warm-mix asphalt mixtures are similar to those of hot-mix asphalt mixtures.
Degradation Behavior and Mechanism of HMA Aggregate
Authors: Ma Tao , Huang Xiaoming , Zhao Yongli , Yuan Hao , Ma Xin
Published: August 2012

The degradation behavior and mechanism of aggregate used for hot mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures has been investigated in this study. Laboratory tests, including the crushing test, Marshall compactor test, and Superpave gyratory compactor test, were used to evaluate the degradation behavior of single-size aggregate and/or graded aggregates. In order to verify the laboratory test results, the degradation of field HMA materials extracted from asphalt pavements after long-time service was also evaluated. The stress-transfer model for an aggregate skeleton was analyzed in order to provide a fundamental understanding of the stress distribution and degradation mechanism of the aggregate system. The results indicate that the degradation of the aggregate gradation is not random and has a fixed internal trend. The 4.75 mm aggregate proved to be the demarcation point between coarse and fine aggregate. During the degradation process, coarse aggregate tends to break into graded aggregate to form a well-balanced skeleton to bear an external load, and the 4.75 mm aggregate plays a key role in the graded aggregate. The crushing test and Superpave gyratory compactor test proved to be easily done and promising for capturing the degradation of aggregate and the gradation of HMA. The variation in the retained percentage of 4.75 mm aggregate and the breakdown ratio of the original aggregate and/or gradation can quantitatively depict the degradation of HMA aggregate.
Application of Sessile Drop Method to Determine Surface Free Energy of Asphalt and Aggregate
Authors: Wei Jianming , Zhang Yuzhen
Published: August 2012

Surface free energy is an important parameter to determine the work of adhesion between the asphalt binder and the aggregate, which is related to the moisture damage of asphalt mixture. In this study, the sessile drop technique was performed to obtain the contact angle between asphalt/aggregate and different probe liquids. The surface free energies of asphalt and aggregate were characterized on the basis of the Owens-Wendt’s theory. It was found that the sessile drop technique is a convenient way to determine the static contact angle. A test procedure was developed to offer a clear method to prepare the sample and measure the contact angle. The surface free energy of aggregate determined in this study was found to be smaller than that measured in other techniques because of equilibrium spreading pressure. The work of adhesion calculated from surface free energy can be utilized to choose the best combination of asphalt and aggregate, which can work as a reference in the selection of materials. Meanwhile, it was found that for the same aggregate, the pull-off strength and the work of adhesion of each asphalt-aggregate have the same trend of ranking.
Properties of Asphalt Mixtures Containing Various Fibers
Authors: Ye Qunshan , Guan Hongxin
Published: August 2012

The effects of fiber modifiers on the performance of asphalt mixtures were investigated. Cellulose fiber, polyester fiber, and basalt mineral fiber were adopted as modifiers, and the dynamic modulus test, indirect tension fatigue test, and wheel track test were conducted in order to study the properties of asphalt mixtures containing various fibers. The test results indicate that the viscoelastic property of asphalt mixtures can be improved by the addition of fiber modifiers, which resulted in an increase of the dynamic modulus and a reduction in the phase angle. Dynamic modulus master curves also confirmed that fiber addition caused a general increase in the dynamic modulus for all mixtures evaluated within the range of the loading frequency, especially at low frequencies. The fatigue property and rutting resistance of fiber modified asphalt mixtures could be enhanced significantly.
Study on the Intrinsic Viscosity of Bitumen Containing Organo Montmorillonite Nanoclay
Authors: Liu Gang , van de Ven Martin , Wu Shaopeng , Molenaar Andre
Published: August 2012

The intrinsic viscosity of the filler is a key parameter to determine the increase in viscosity of bitumen as a function of filler volume fraction. In this study, the intrinsic viscosity of bitumen containing different organo montmorillonite (Mt) nanoclay was studied by using Simha composite model. The comparison of intrinsic viscosity was made to bitumens containing different fillers. Compared with the data on the intrinsic viscosity of other mineral fillers in bitumen, organo Mt is more effective to enhance this rheological property, due to its better compatibility with bitumen and its intercalated structure formation. These data can give a clear insight into the reinforcement mechanisms of bitumen when different types of mineral filler are used to modify the bitumen.
Application of the Steam Aging Method to Evaluate the Long-Term Performance of Secondary Materials for Road Construction
Authors: Akbarnejad S. , Houben L. J. M. , Molenaar A. A. A.
Published: August 2012

Long-term performance of secondary materials is becoming a challenging aspect in road construction because, as a result of their benefits, they are being used on a large scale. The problem with these materials, however, is that their future behaviors are difficult to estimate. In this study, aging is proposed as a means of exploring the long-term mechanical and physical performance of secondary materials. A blast furnace slag (BFS) mixture, which is routinely used in the Netherlands in road (sub-)base construction, was selected as a reference material. A motorway in the Netherlands was used as a source of field-aged BFS materials. The base layer of this motorway suddenly experienced serious failures. To prevent similar problems, an aging method was suggested to detect potential poor material performance at an early stage. The steam aging approach was chosen and applied to the field-aged and fresh materials. This aging treatment has affected material characteristics. This showed that there is a linkage between material performance, mixture composition, and aging conditions.
The 2012 Phenomenon Comes of Age
Authors: Sitler Robert K.
Published: August 2012

This essay is an update on the “2012 phenomenon” first discussed in my article in Nova Religio 9, no. 3 (February 2006), which was the first academic assessment of the movement. Since then, this international movement has developed with remarkable speed, focusing intense and still-growing speculation on the completion of a major cycle in the Mayan Long Count calendar on 21 December 2012. Various factors have accelerated the 2012 phenomenon's recent growth, including the decipherment of two ancient Mayan hieroglyphic texts that explicitly refer to the 2012 date, and the release of the Hollywood film 2012. The topic now draws serious academic analysis, and has led to far greater involvement in the 2012 phenomenon by the Maya themselves, including publication of the first books on the subject by Maya authors. This article reassesses the movement as it approaches its culmination on 21 December 2012, and presents indigenous perspectives acquired through conversations with Maya spiritual guides and elders in Guatemala and Mexico.
Vitamin D deficiency in postmenopausal, healthy women predicts increased cardiovascular events: a 16-year follow-up study
Authors: Schierbeck Louise Lind , Rejnmark Lars , Tofteng Charlotte Landbo , Stilgren Lis , Eiken Pia , Mosekilde Leif , Køber Lars , Jensen Jens-Erik Beck
Published: August 2012

Objective

To investigate the relationship between vitamin D status in healthy women and cardiovascular outcome.

Design and methods

Between 1990 and 1993, 2016 healthy, recently postmenopausal women were enrolled in the Danish Osteoporosis Prevention Study. Serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D, nmol/l) were measured at baseline. Participants were followed for 16 years. The primary end point was a combination of death, heart failure, myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25(OH)D<50 nmol/l. The primary end point was adjusted for other risk factors of adverse cardiovascular events (age, smoking, blood pressure, hip–waist ratio, education and family history of MI).

Results

At baseline, mean age was 50 years and BMI 25. Women with vitamin D deficiency (n=788) had more cardiovascular risk factors than vitamin D-replete women (n=1225). Compared with vitamin D-replete women, women with low 25(OH)D levels had significantly higher BMI and triglycerides, lower HDL and hip–waist ratio and less education. More were smokers among the vitamin D deficient (47 vs 38%). A primary end point was experienced by 118 (15%) with vitamin D deficiency and by 125 (10%) of the vitamin D replete. Hazard ratio (HR) was 1.49 (95% confidence interval: 1.16–1.92;P=0.002) in the vitamin D deficient. Adjusted HR was 1.32 (1.02–1.71;P=0.03). In total, 135 women died; of these, 65 (8%) were of the vitamin D deficient and 70 (6%) in the vitamin D-replete group; unadjusted HR was 1.44 (1.02–2.01;P=0.04) for vitamin D deficiency.

Conclusion

Healthy women with vitamin D deficiency have increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcome.
Hypothyroidism reduces ObRb–STAT3 leptin signalling in the hypothalamus and pituitary of rats associated with resistance to leptin acute anorectic action
Authors: Calvino Camila , Souza Luana L , Costa-e-Sousa Ricardo H , Almeida Norma A S , Trevenzoli Isis H , Pazos-Moura Carmen C
Published: August 2012

Leptin has been shown to regulate the hypothalamus–pituitary–thyroid axis, acting primarily through the STAT3 pathway triggered through the binding of leptin to the long-chain isoform of the leptin receptor, ObRb. We previously demonstrated that although hyperthyroid rats presented leptin effects on TSH secretion, those effects were abolished in hypothyroid rats. We addressed the hypothesis that changes in the STAT3 pathway might explain the lack of TSH response to leptin in hypothyroidism by evaluating the protein content of components of leptin signalling via the STAT3 pathway in the hypothalamus and pituitary of hypothyroid (0.03% methimazole in the drinking water/21 days) and hyperthyroid (thyroxine 5 μg/100 g body weight /5 days) rats. Hypothyroid rats exhibited decreased ObRb and phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3) protein in the hypothalamus, and in the pituitary gland they exhibited decreased ObRb, total STAT3, pSTAT3 and SOCS3 (P<0.05). Except for a modest decrease in pituitary STAT3, no other alterations were observed in hyperthyroid rats. Moreover, unlike euthyroid rats, the hypothyroid rats did not exhibit a reduction in food ingestion after a single injection of leptin (0.5 mg/kg body weight). Therefore, hypothyroidism decreased ObRb–STAT3 signalling in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which likely contributes to the loss of leptin action on food intake and TSH secretion, as previously observed in hypothyroid rats.
Expression of LH receptor in nonpregnant mouse endometrium: LH induction of 3β-HSD and de novo synthesis of progesterone
Authors: Kundu Sourav , Pramanick Kousik , Paul Sudipta , Bandyopadhyay Arun , Mukherjee Dilip
Published: August 2012

In mouse uterus, at the late diestrus stage LH binding sites have previously been described. The aim of our study was to confirm the existence ofLHreceptor (Lhr(Lhcgr)) mRNA and its protein in mouse endometrium. Endometrium at all stages of the estrous cycle containedLhrmRNA, essentially identical to that found in mouse ovary. Endometrium also contained a 72 kDa immunoreactive receptor protein that bound to mouse anti-LHR antibody in western blot. Both receptor mRNA and protein were maximally expressed in the endometrium at metestrus and LH caused a significant increase in their expression levels. Endometrium also contained 3β-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase (3β-hsd) mRNA and 3β-HSD protein. LH addition elevated their expression and activity as evident from increased conversion of labeled pregnenolone to progesterone (P4) andde novoP4synthesis. LH-induced endometrial P4synthesis is mediated through expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory (Star) gene. Results demonstrated that LH-induced P4synthesis in endometrium is possibly mediated through the cAMP pathway. Involvement of a MAPK pathway was also evident. Gonadotropin-stimulated endometrial P4synthesis was markedly attenuated by an antagonist of MEK1/2, PD98059. LH-stimulated MEK1/2-dependent phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in a concentration- and time-dependant manner in cultured endometrial tissues. Moreover, involvement of cAMP in LH-stimulated activation of ERK1/2 was also evident. It is therefore possible that the major signaling pathways regulating endometrial steroidogenesis in mouse, including the adenylate cyclase and MAP kinase pathways, converge at a point distal to activation of protein kinase A and ERK1/2.
Prions in Yeast
Authors: Liebman Susan W , Chernoff Yury O
Published: August 2012

The concept of a prion as an infectious self-propagating protein isoform was initially proposed to explain certain mammalian diseases. It is now clear that yeast also has heritable elements transmitted via protein. Indeed, the “protein only” model of prion transmission was first proven using a yeast prion. Typically, known prions are ordered cross-β aggregates (amyloids). Recently, there has been an explosion in the number of recognized prions in yeast. Yeast continues to lead the way in understanding cellular control of prion propagation, prion structure, mechanisms of de novo prion formation, specificity of prion transmission, and the biological roles of prions. This review summarizes what has been learned from yeast prions.
Combinatorial New Facing Targets Sputtering
Authors: Maetani Takuya , Mori Naoya , Nakamitsu Yutaka , Hata Seiichi
Published: August 2012

Combinatorial sputtering is one of the useful methods that can be used to search for optimal composition of alloy materials or for new alloy materials. To search materials more efficiently, it is required that compositions and their distribution on samples can be easily controlled for the evaluation of their properties. Moreover, it is desirable that compositions change linearly to search for novel materials systematically. In conventional combinatorial sputtering method, it is difficult to fabricate samples having linear compositions distribution without moving hard masks or rotating substrate.

In this paper, a novel combinatorial sputtering method with New Facing Targets Sputtering (Combi-NFTS) of material search is introduced. In this method, several sputtering targets are placed in opposite direction, and substrates are placed in vertical direction of these targets. From this structure, thin film with binary/ternary composition distribution could be synthesized onto one single substrate. Moreover, it can fabricate samples having relatively linear composition distribution without moving hard masks or rotating substrate. As an example, Cu, Zr and Ti pure targets were used to confirm the performance of Combi-NFTS. Binary system of Cu-Zr and ternary system of Cu-Zr-Ti thin films were fabricated by using Combi-NFTS. After deposition, compositions of the films were characterized by the energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. As a result of Cu-Zr binary system, the composition of the thin film was changed as the power of targets was changed. Moreover, composition distribution was expanded as the distance from substrate to targets was decreased. In the Cu-Zr-Ti ternary system, it was obtained similar trend for composition distribution. Moreover, the composition changed two dimensional by changing the substrate position.

These results indicate that combi-NFTS can easily control the composition and composition distribution of thin films by changing the power of targets or the distance from substrate to targets which make combi-NFTS very suitable for combinatorial materials search.
Microstructure analysis of GdBa2Cu3O7-δ coated conductors by the RCE-DR process
Authors: Choi Soon-Mi , Lee Jung-Woo , Moon Seung-Hyun , Yoo Sang-Im
Published: August 2012

We report the microstructural features of GdBa2Cu3O7-δ (GdBCO) coated conductors (CCs) on LaMnO3 (LMO)-buffered IBAD MgO template, produced by the Reactive Co-Evaporation Deposition & Reaction (RCE-DR) process. Analysis results by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that a lot of elongated round second phase particles of 70-150nm size within the GdBCO matrix were the Gd2O3 phase, a small amount of Cu-O phase were also trapped in the GdBCO matrix, and a thick layer of Cu-excessive Ba-Cu-O phase was found on the top surface of the GdBCO film, suggesting that the GdBCO film might be grown from Gd2O3 and liquid phase by a peritectic recombination. While both the GdBCO film and some Gd2O3 particles grown on the LMO-buffer layer were biaxially textured, the Gd2O3 particles fully trapped in the GdBCO matrix were randomly oriented. The Gd2O3 particles located at the interface between the GdBCO and LMO buffer layer exhibited the following crystallographic orientation relationship: LMO [010] // GdBCO [010] // Gd2O3 [110]; LMO [001] // GdBCO [001] // Gd2O3 [001].
Model of Subgrain Structure Formation in HTS Cuprates and Ferropnictides
Authors: Tretiatchenko Constantin G. , Svetchnikov Vassily L. , Wiesmann Harold
Published: August 2012

We have modified the model of rotational relaxation of stresses at mismatched interface by taking into account elastic strains of the growing film. This extended the model validity range to a wider class of compounds including pnictides. The model describes formation of low angle boundaries consisting of threading edge dislocations. Calculated interface energy shows that rotational relaxation occurs due to finite size of clusters and to non-equilibrium effect of the film growth. Subgrain size and expected angle of domain rotation depending on the lattice mismatch have been estimated. Unusual effect of increasing angle between the film subgrains at reduction of the deposition rate is predicted. The computed parameters of subgrains are consistent with the observed film nanostructure.
Limitations and Perspectives of Optically Switched Interconnects for Large-scale Data Processing and Storage Systems
Authors: Aleksic Slavisa , Schmid Gerhard , Fehratovic Naida
Published: August 2012

The ever-growing Internet data traffic leads to a continuously increasing demand in both capacity and performance of large-scale Information and Communication (ICT) systems such as high-capacity routers and switches, large data centers, and supercomputers. Complex and spatially distributed multirack systems comprising a large number of data processing and storage modules with high-speed interfaces have already become reality. A consequence of this trend is that internal interconnection systems also become large and complex. Interconnection distances, total required number of cables, and power consumption increase rapidly with the increase in capacity, which can cause limitations in scalability of the whole system. This paper addresses requirements and limitations of intrasystem interconnects for application in large-scale data processing and storage systems. Various point-to-point and optically switched interconnection options are reviewed with regard to their potential to achieve large scalability while reducing power consumption.
Improving Photoresist Spray Coating on 3D Structures for Microfluidic Devices
Authors: Kumagai Shinya , Fukuda Naoya , Tajima Hisayoshi , Sasaki Minoru
Published: August 2012

Spray coating of a photoresist onto three-dimensional (3D) structure was investigated. To improve the uniformity of photoresist deposition onto the 3D structure, a shield plate with an aperture was used. The shield plate set over a sample permitted the resist deposition on the sample surface located in the aperture area while the plate blocked the deposition for the other area. The spray flow which is suitable for the resist deposition can be used effectively. Numerical analysis revealed that the vertical velocity component of gas flow was enhanced in the aperture area. In the experiments of the spray coating, the difference between the resist film thicknesses deposited on top and bottom trench surfaces was decreased. On the trench sidewall, resist bump formation, which was frequently observed in spray coating, was suppressed. The uniform resist deposition is necessary to realize 3D microdevices by lithography. In the microfluidic devices of dielectrophoresis, aside from the top and botttom trench surfaces, the trench sidewall can be used to fabricate device structures such as electrode for dielectrophoresis.
Truth-Telling and Cancer Diagnoses: Physician Attitudes and Practices in Qatar
Authors: Rodriguez del Pozo Pablo , Fins Joseph J. , Helmy Ismail , El Chaki Rim , El Shazly Tarek , Wafadari Deena , Mahfoud Ziyad
Published: August 2012

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Compare physician-stated and actual disclosure practices with respect to cancer diagnoses.Identify variables that influence physician truth-telling practices with respect to cancer diagnoses.

CME This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com

There is limited information regarding physicians' attitudes toward revealing cancer diagnoses to patients in the Arab world. Using a questionnaire informed by a seminal study carried out by Oken in 1961, our research sought to determine present-day disclosure practices in Qatar, identify physician sociodemographic variables associated with truth-telling, and outline trends related to future practice. A sample of 131 physicians was polled. Although nearly 90% of doctors said they would inform cancer patients of their diagnosis, ∼66% of respondents stated that they made exceptions to their policy, depending on patient characteristics. These data suggest that clinical practices are somewhat discordant on professed beliefs about the ethical propriety of disclosure.
Characterisation and undrained strength of amorphous clay
Authors: O'Kelly Brendan C.
Published: August 2012

This paper presents the physiochemical properties and relationship of saturated remoulded undrained shear strength, sur, against water content, w, for an amorphous organic clay, namely an alum water-treatment residue material derived from the production of potable water. The log w–log surrelationship was found to be strongly linear, and extended well beyond the measured plastic range. The effects of microstructure, and the shearing modes, rates and specimen confinement, are reported, along with the correspondence between surmeasured in triaxial compression and that deduced from fall-cone and miniature vane tests. The mobilised strength exhibited high strain-rate dependence, increasing by ∼30%/log ε˙ cycle increase. The bulk water-treatment residue material could be easily remoulded at water contents below the measured Casagrande plastic limit, indicating that the reported plastic range was notional and, furthermore, that the use of liquidity index as an indicator of the material's consistency is unreliable. The paper concludes by presenting a conceptual model that goes towards explaining the relatively high values of surmobilised for this material at extremely high water contents.
Compaction and volumetric shrinkage of bentonitic mixtures
Authors: Ören Ali Hakan , Kaya Abidin
Published: August 2012

This study presents compaction and volumetric shrinkage results for zeolite–bentonite mixtures and sand–bentonite mixtures in terms of bentonite content, zeolite particle size and mixture type. Based on the results obtained, the zeolite–bentonite mixtures had significantly lower dry unit weights and higher compaction water contents than those of the sand–bentonite mixtures. The volumetric shrinkage strains of bentonitic mixtures changed only slightly up to 30% bentonite content, but increased considerably when 50% bentonite content was used in the mixtures. The effect of zeolite particle size on the volumetric shrinkage of zeolite–bentonite mixtures was also determined. The measurements showed that the zeolite–bentonite mixtures prepared with fine zeolite were able to shrink more than those prepared with granular zeolite. However, there were comparable volumetric shrinkage strains between granular zeolite–bentonite mixtures and sand–bentonite mixtures. Two-way analysis of variance was conducted to evaluate whether zeolite particle size, bentonite content and mixture type have statistically significant effects on the volume shrinkage strains of bentonitic mixtures.
Drainage controlled uniaxial swelling cell
Authors: Langroudi Arya Assadi , Yasrobi S. Shahaboddin
Published: August 2012

A modified oedometer apparatus, the drainage controlled uniaxial swelling cell, is described. While inward vertical and radial flow paths are effectively adjustable, a drainage controlled uniaxial swelling cell can be applied to measure the vertical swelling pressure value at a predetermined drain path, when integrated with a closed-loop mechanical testing load frame. Aiming for calibration of the cell, a set of validation standard constant volume swell tests (ASTM D4546) is conducted on remoulded unsaturated expansive clay specimens. The results revealed an upper bound for the ultimate vertical swelling pressure under multilateral drainage condition.
Variable intertidal temperature explains why disease endangers black abalone
Authors: Ben-Horin Tal , Lenihan Hunter S. , Lafferty Kevin D.
Published: August 2012

Epidemiological theory suggests that pathogens will not cause host extinctions because agents of disease should fade out when the host population is driven below a threshold density. Nevertheless, infectious diseases have threatened species with extinction on local scales by maintaining high incidence and the ability to spread efficiently even as host populations decline. Intertidal black abalone (Haliotis cracherodii), but not other abalone species, went extinct locally throughout much of southern California following the emergence of a Rickettsiales‐like pathogen in the mid‐1980s. The rickettsial disease, a condition known as withering syndrome (WS), and associated mortality occur at elevated water temperatures. We measured abalone body temperatures in the field and experimentally manipulated intertidal environmental conditions in the laboratory, testing the influence of mean temperature and daily temperature variability on key epizootiological processes of WS. Daily temperature variability increased the susceptibility of black abalone to infection, but disease expression occurred only at warm water temperatures and was independent of temperature variability. These results imply that high thermal variation of the marine intertidal zone allows the pathogen to readily infect black abalone, but infected individuals remain asymptomatic until water temperatures periodically exceed thresholds modulating WS. Mass mortalities can therefore occur before pathogen transmission is limited by density‐dependent factors.
Participatory irrigation water management in the Jordan Valley
Authors: Salman Amer , Al-Karablieh Emad , Regner Hans-Jochen , Wolff Heinz-Peter , Haddadin Munther
Published: August 2012

This paper reviews Jordan's relatively short experience gained since participatory irrigation management (PIM), was introduced with due consideration of the traditional social and cultural merits. The introduction of PIM was a meaningful partial shift in the paradigm of operation of the Jordan Valley irrigation system that has been undertaken by government agencies since its staged implementation between 1960 and 1988. The Jordan Valley Authority (JVA) of the Ministry of Water and Irrigation, among other responsibilities, is the current government agency in charge of operation and maintenance of the irrigation system. The advantages of the introduced mode of operation, the PIM, especially in an environment of perpetual irrigation water shortage, are presented.

The paper further discusses the multi-dimensional facets of PIM expressed by the representation of users’ community and by the level of representation as well as the interaction between the targeted groups and the government and highlights the virtues of “learning while implementing” in which midcourse corrections can be made in order to arrive at a state of equilibrium between the various stakeholders. The adoption of traditional cooperation as a basis for setting up water users associations (WUAs), is presented. The emergence of PIM as a competitor to management contracts adopted in municipal water and wastewater management in Jordan is touched upon and the dynamics of PIM application in the Jordan Valley, including the division of labor between the WUAs and JVA, is described.
Futures: an exploration of scenarios for sustainable urban water management
Authors: Makropoulos C. K. , Memon F. A. , Shirley-Smith C. , Butler D.
Published: August 2012

The paper discusses issues related to the development of future scenarios appropriate for preparing robust, sustainable urban water management strategies. A discussion of existing approaches to future scenarios and their use in water management at an urban rather than catchment scale is included, from conventional to more radical, and their critical comparison is attempted. The paper presents a framework for scenario-variants generation and provides examples of its possible implementation in a component analysis of urban water management. Four major components of urban water are selected (stormwater, drinking water, wastewater and their integration through recycling) and their possible evolution under seven different scenarios is examined by means of regulatory, social, economic, environmental and technical drivers. It is anticipated that this work will further support the growing interest in providing tools for long term strategic planning into an uncertain future.
Silicalite-1, an adsorbent for 2-, 3-, and 4-chlorophenols
Authors: Sánchez-Flores N. A. , Solache M. , Olguín M. T. , Legaspe J. , Pacheco-Malagón G. , Saniger J. M. , Martinez E. , Bulbulian S. , Fripiat J. J.
Published: August 2012

The adsorption of the three chlorophenol isomers, ortho, meta and para, by silicalite-1 has been studied at 30 °C, below the solubility (at the same temperature) in water. Large differences, up to 30 times, have been observed between the adsorption of the para- vs. the ortho-isomer. The difference of behavior observed between the isomers is assigned to the tendency to self-organization of the para-isomer. It seems probable that the adsorption sites are at the intersection channels. From a technical point of view, silicalite-1 seems a competitive adsorbent for p-chlorophenol.
Use of sesame stalk biomass for the removal of Ni(II) and Zn(II) from aqueous solutions
Authors: Kırbıyık Çisem , Kılıç Murat , Çepelioğullar Özge , Pütün Ayşe E.
Published: August 2012

In this study an agricultural residue, sesame stalk, was evaluated for the removal of Ni(II) and Zn(II) metal ions from aqueous solutions. Biosorption studies were carried out at different pH, biosorbent dosage, initial metal ion concentrations, contact time, and solution temperature to determine the optimum conditions. The experimental data were modeled by Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R) and Temkin isotherm models. Langmuir model resulted in the best fit of the biosorption data. The pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models were used to describe the kinetic data and to evaluate rate constants. The best correlation was provided by the second-order kinetic model. The thermodynamic parameters such as ΔG°, ΔH° and ΔS° were calculated for predicting the nature of adsorption. The experimental results showed that sesame stalk can be used as an effective and low-cost biosorbent precursor for the removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions.
Mobility of 4-nonylphenol and di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in three agricultural soils irrigated with untreated wastewater
Authors: Murillo-Torres Rosa , Durán-Alvarez Juan C. , Prado-Pano Blanca , Jiménez-Cisneros Blanca
Published: August 2012

Agricultural irrigation using raw wastewater is a popular practice in developing countries. However, as endocrine disrupting chemicals have been found in this water, the potential pollution of soil and water sources has become a source of concern. Such pollutants may be removed during the passage of wastewater through the soil by degradation and/or sorption. In this study the sorption and mobility of bis-2-ethyl(hexyl)phthalate (DEHP) and 4-nonylphenol (4-NP) in three different soils (Leptosol, Phaeozem and Vertisol) was compared. The distribution coefficients showed that DEHP is rapidly sorbed onto the three tested soils (Kd between 1.8 × 104 and 4.2 × 04 L/kg), while sorption of 4-NP (Kd between 15 and 80 L/kg) was weaker. In batch experiments the soil sorption capacity observed was as follows: Vertisol > Phaeozem > Leptosol for both compounds. However, in column experiments the retardation factor (RF) for 4-NP was higher than for the DEHP in the three soils. This suggests the possible migration of DEHP through the soil via colloids. The column results were found consistent with those observed in the field. It was concluded that the risk of groundwater contamination is higher for Leptosol soil than for Phaeozem and Vertisol soils and that DEHP can reach the aquifer prior to 4-NP.
Interaction of Cocos nucifera cream casein with humic acid suspensions
Authors: Fatombi J. K. , Aminou T. , Lartiges B. , Topanou N. , Josse R. G.
Published: August 2012

Two caseins labelled as CaSMG (casein without fats) and CaMG (casein with fats) were extracted from coconut cream. Both caseins were used as coagulants for the aggregation of humic acid (HA) particles in synthetic water at pH = 6 during the jar-test essays. The optimum dosage of CaMG or CaSMG and the residual turbidities of treated water obtained depend on the type of used casein (CaMG or CaSMG) and the concentration of particles in solution. The optimal doses of CaMG and CaSMG are respectively 280 and 180 mg/L for solution S1 (HA aqueous solution at 15 mg/L), and then 340 and 240 mg/L for solution S2 (HA aqueous solution at 25 mg/L). The residual turbidities of treated water are respectively 6.88 and 3.85 NTU for solution S1 and 4.52 and 2.53 NTU for solution S2. The collected sediment volumes are respectively 1.2 and 1.5 mL for solutions S1 and S2. The electrophoretic mobility measurement and transmission electron microscopy images of flocs formed during the flocculation essays suggest that both caseins operate through both mechanisms (charge neutralisation and bridging process mechanism), this last one seems to be predominant. The aggregates formed are the large clusters and result from adsorption of HA particles by the casein molecules.
Ecofriendly approach for detection of phenols in water using laccase from different fungi
Authors: Kidwai Mazaahir , Jain Arti , Sharma Abha , Chander Kuhad Ramesh
Published: August 2012

Laccase-initiated oxidative coupling reactions of phenol and its derivatives with 4-aminoantipyrene using air as an oxidant has been investigated. The oxidation reaction of phenols and 4-aminoantipyrene is getting a lot of attention due to environmental concerns. Oxidation of simple phenol and 4-aminoantipyrene as a benchmark reaction enabled us to rank the relative oxidation ability of various laccases. Among the laccases tested, laccase from Pycnoporus cinnabarinus successfully yielded 72% antipyrilquinoneimine dye. The present method can also be used to determine p-substituted phenols and chlorophenols. In this work, the influence of mediators on laccase activity has also been studied.
Characterization of biofilm of a rotating biological contactor treating synthetic wastewater
Authors: Singh V. , Mittal A. K.
Published: August 2012

A four-stage rotating biological contactor (RBC) was designed and operated to treat synthetic wastewater containing 1,000 mg/l chemical oxygen demand (COD) and 112 mg/l NH4+-N. A mixed culture bacterial biofilm was developed consisting of a heterotrophic bacterium Paracoccus pantotrophus, nitrifiers and other heterotrophs. Applying the peculiar characteristics of P. pantotrophus of simultaneous heterotrophic nitrification and aerobic denitrification, high simultaneous removal of carbon and nitrogen could be achieved in the fully aerobic RBC. The microbial community structure of the RBC biofilm was categorized based on the nitrate reduction, biochemical reactions, gram staining and morphology. The presence of P. pantotrophus within the RBC biofilm was confirmed with an array of biochemical tests. Isolates from the four stages of RBC were grouped into complete denitrifiers, incomplete denitrifiers and non-denitrifiers. This categorization showed a higher relative abundance of P. pantotrophus in the first stage as compared with subsequent stages, in which other nitrifiers and heterotrophs were significantly present. High total nitrogen removal of upto 68% was in conformity with observations made using microbial categorization and biochemical tests. The high relative abundance of P. pantotrophus in the biofilm revealed that it could successfully compete with other heterotrophs and autotrophic nitrifiers in mixed bacterial biomass.
β-Cell Mass and Turnover in Humans
Authors: Saisho Yoshifumi , Butler Alexandra E. , Manesso Erica , Elashoff David , Rizza Robert A. , Butler Peter C.
Published: August 2012

OBJECTIVE

We sought to establish β-cell mass, β-cell apoptosis, and β-cell replication in humans in response to obesity and advanced age.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We examined human autopsy pancreas from 167 nondiabetic individuals 20–102 years of age. The effect of obesity on β-cell mass was examined in 53 lean and 61 obese subjects, and the effect of aging was examined in 106 lean subjects.

RESULTS

β-Cell mass is increased by ∼50% with obesity (from 0.8 to 1.2 g). With advanced aging, the exocrine pancreas undergoes atrophy but β-cell mass is remarkably preserved. There is minimal β-cell replication or apoptosis in lean humans throughout life with no detectable changes with obesity or advanced age.

CONCLUSIONS

β-Cell mass in human obesity increases by ∼50% by an increase in β-cell number, the source of which is unknown. β-Cell mass is well preserved in humans with advanced aging.
The Use of an Automated, Portable Glucose Control System for Overnight Glucose Control in Adolescents and Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: O'Grady Michael J. , Retterath Adam J. , Keenan D. Barry , Kurtz Natalie , Cantwell Martin , Spital Glenn , Kremliovsky Michael N. , Roy Anirban , Davis Elizabeth A. , Jones Timothy W. , Ly Trang T.
Published: August 2012

OBJECTIVE

A key milestone in progress towards providing an efficacious and safe closed-loop artificial pancreas system for outpatient use is the development of fully automated, portable devices with fault detection capabilities to ensure patient safety. The ability to remotely monitor the operation of the closed-loop system would facilitate future physician-supervised home studies.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This study was designed to investigate the efficacy and safety of a fully automated, portable, closed-loop system. The Medtronic Portable Glucose Control System (PGCS) consists of two subcutaneous glucose sensors, a control algorithm based on proportional-integral-derivative with insulin feedback operating from a BlackBerry Storm smartphone platform, Bluetooth radiofrequency translator, and an off-the-shelf Medtronic Paradigm Veo insulin pump. Participants with type 1 diabetes using insulin pump therapy underwent two consecutive nights of in-clinic, overnight, closed-loop control after a baseline open-loop assessment.

RESULTS

Eight participants attended for 16 overnight studies. The PGCS maintained mean overnight plasma glucose levels of 6.4 ± 1.7 mmol/L (115 ± 31 mg/dL). The proportion of time with venous plasma glucose <3.9, between 3.9 and 8 (70 and 144 mg/dL), and >8 mmol/L was 7, 78, and 15%, respectively. The proportion of time the sensor glucose values were maintained between 3.9 and 8 mmol/L was greater for closed-loop than open-loop (84.5 vs. 46.7%; P < 0.0001), and time spent <3.3 mmol/L was also reduced (0.9 vs. 3%; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the PGCS, an automated closed-loop device, is safe and effective in achieving overnight glucose control in patients with type 1 diabetes.
Concave iteration semigroups of linear continuous set-valued functions
Authors: Smajdor Andrzej , Smajdor Wilhelmina
Published: August 2012

Let {F
t: t ≥ 0} be a concave iteration semigroup of linear continuous set-valued functions defined on a convex cone K with nonempty interior in a Banach space X with values in cc(K). If we assume that the Hukuhara differences F
0(x) − F
t (x) exist for x ∈ K and t > 0, then D
t
F
t (x) = (−1)F
t ((−1)G(x)) for x ∈ K and t ≥ 0, where D
t
F
t (x) denotes the derivative of F
t (x) with respect to t and $$G(x) = \mathop {\lim }\limits_{s \to 0} {{\left( {F^0 \left( x \right) - F^s \left( x \right)} \right)} \mathord{\left/
{\vphantom {{\left( {F^0 \left( x \right) - F^s \left( x \right)} \right)} {\left( { - s} \right)}}} \right.
\kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {\left( { - s} \right)}}$$ for x ∈ K.
Homoclinic orbits for a class of singular second order Hamiltonian systems in ℝ3
Authors: Janczewska Joanna , Maksymiuk Jakub
Published: August 2012

We consider a conservative second order Hamiltonian system $$\ddot q + \nabla V(q) = 0$$ in ℝ3 with a potential V having a global maximum at the origin and a line l ∩ {0} = ϑ as a set of singular points. Under a certain compactness condition on V at infinity and a strong force condition at singular points we study, by the use of variational methods and geometrical arguments, the existence of homoclinic solutions of the system.
(S)-2,2,6,6-Tetramethyl-N-(Pyrrolidin-2-Ylmethyl)Piperidin-4-Amine as an Efficient Organocatalyst for Asymmetric Michael Addition
Authors: Cao Xiaohui , Wang Ge , Wei Yingying , Chen Ligong
Published: August 2012

A new organocatalyst derived from proline has been developed and shown to be an efficient catalyst for asymmetric Michael addition reactions of cyclohexanone to nitroolefins with high diastereo- and enantio -selectivities. (syn: anti up to 99:1, ee. up to 93%.).
Mild and Efficient One-Pot Three-Component Synthesis of Benzopyrimidoquinoline-Tetraone Derivatives in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Du Bai-Xiang , Zhao Bo , Cai Gan , Li Yu-Ling , Wang Xiang-Shan
Published: August 2012

An efficient one-pot synthesis of 5-aryl-5,12-dihydrobenzo[g]pyrimido[4,5-b]quinoline-2,4,6,11(1H,3H)-tetraone derivatives via three-component reaction of aromatic aldehydes, 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone and 6-aminouracil in ionic liquid [bmim]BF4 is reported. This method had the advantages of easier work-up, environmentally benign procedure, high yields and ease of recovery and reuse of reaction media.
Selective Conversion of Aldehydes into Nitriles and Primary Amides in aQueous Media
Authors: Wang Liang , Shen Chen , Wang Hai-ping , Zhou Wei-you , Sun Fu-an , He Ming-Yang , Chen Qun
Published: August 2012

A simple and selective conversion of aldehydes into the corresponding nitriles and primary amides in aqueous ammonia has been developed. The aldehydes were efficiently converted to the corresponding nitriles in moderate to excellent yields using tetrabutylammonium iodide/tert-butyl hydroperoxide system. The primary amides, however, can be selectively synthesised only in the presence of tert-butyl hydroperoxide.