bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exhibition Reviews
Authors: Assaf Zeina , Charlesworth Amy
Published: January 2016

De Sokkel #5: Private Colloquies on a Public Sculpture and The Making of De Sokkel #5, Ilaria Lupo, Stadspark, Antwerp, The Middelheim Museum and AIR Antwerpen, 11 May–22 September 2013

How to Construct a Time Machine, MK Gallery, 23 January–22 March 2015
Prevalence of overweight and obesity in schoolchildren of a rural Colombian community
Authors: Ortega-Bonilla Rubén Andrés , Chito-Trujillo Diana Maria
Published: January 2016

Introduction: The National Survey of the Nutritional Situation in Colombia does not establish the nutritional state of entire population living in the rural area of 32 departments that constitute the political division of Colombia. The purpose of this study was to assess the trends of nutritional status in school community in some rural and remote areas of Cauca department in the South of Colombia with emphasis on excess of weight.Material and Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive study of 6,664 schoolchildren of both genders, between 4 and 19 years of age from 12 schools was performed. Height and weight measurements were used to calculate body mass index and the prevalence of overweight and obesity were defined based on internationally accepted cut-off points. Gender, age, ethnicity and municipality were evaluated as factors associated to excess weight according to body mass index.Results: The mean of age was 13.2±2.9 years; 52.0% males and 48.0% aboriginal schoolchildren. School population was greater in the south and east of Cauca. Regarding nutritional status, almost 4.0% of students were in excess weight being significantly predominant the obesity in females. 55.2% of schoolchildren present normal values of body mass index.Conclusions: Low prevalence of overweight (3.3%) and obesity (0.3%) were correlated to adolescent students from South and Eastern Cauca. Although the rural schoolchildren obesity prevalence is low, the findings suggest implying proper and prompt interventions from alliances of national and global organizations in order to avoid immediate solutions that may promote the current nutritional status.
Metabolic disorders in medulloblastoma and acute lymphoblastic leukemia survivors
Authors: Tseloval'nikova Tat'yana Yur'evna , Pavlova Mariya Gennadievna , Zilov Aleksey Vadimovich , Mazerkina Nadezhda Aleksandrovna , Zheludkova Ol'ga Grigor'evna , Aref'eva Irina Alekseevna , Medvedeva Ol'ga Aleksandrovna
Published: January 2016

The childhood cancer morbidity has been steadily increasing over the last few decades. However, the recent more effective complex treatment approaches have led to a dramatic improvements in the survival rate in childhood cancers. Currently many childhood cancer survivors require a life-long follow-up. Therefore, today doctors of various specialties are faced with different long-term consequences after the complex treatment for cancer. Among the various complications metabolic disorders should be eparately identified as risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, which are the most frequent causes of death. This article describes the current understanding of the various metabolic changes in the patients after treatment for medulloblastoma and acute lymphoblastic leukemia in childhood, the mechanisms of their development and treatment issues.
The effect of type 2 diabetes and its drug therapy on bone quality.
Authors: Yalochkina Tat'yana Olegovna , Pigarova Ekaterina Aleksandrovna
Published: January 2016

Individuals with type 2 diabetes have increased risk of fragility fractures. It’s not completely clear by which mechanism type 2 diabetes increases skeletal fragility. A combination of factors, including an increased risk of falling (contributed by complications of the disease) and impaired bone quality apparently leads to a greater fracture risk. Some cl asses of drug therapy for type 2 diabetes may also increase fracture risk by their own mechanism of action.
Adrenocorticotropic hormone-producing pheochromocytoma: analysis of clinical cases
Authors: Marova Evgeniya Ivanovna , Voronkova Iya Aleksandrovna , Lapshina Anastasiya Mikhaylovna , Arapova Svetlana Dmitrievna , Kuznetsov Nikolay Sergeevich , Rozhinskaya Lyudmila Yakovlevna , Zhivotov Vladimir Anatol'evich , Zharkov Oleg Borisovich , Gurevich Larisa Evseevna , Polyakova Galina Aleksandrovna
Published: January 2016

Ectopic secretion of ACTH from non-pituitary tumors, referred to as ectopic ACTH syndrome (EAS), accounts for about 10–20% of Cushing’s syndrome (CS). Ectopic hormone-secreting pheochromocytomas (Pheo) are rare. The first publication of association between pheochromocytoma and Cushing’s syndrome by Roux is dated 1955. Pheochromocytoma represents a rare cause of hypercortisolism, accounting for less than 5 % of ectopic Cushing’s syndrome while less than 1 % of pheochromocytomas is accompanied by Cushing’s syndrome.We are reporting 4 cases of ACTH-secreting pheochromocytoma presenting as Cushing’s syndrome. Data from 4 patients were analysed. There were 4 women from 50 to 63 years old. All patients had a clinical presentation of hypercorticoidism. Their levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone in plasma, 24-hour urinary free cortisol and urinary catecholamine were high. Computed tomography scan of the abdomen in all cases revealed a mass in the left adrenal gland. Left sided adrenalectomy was performed under treatment with a-blocker doxazosin and b-blocker atenolol. Histological examination revealed in 3 cases – pheocromocytoma and in 1 case corticomedullary mixed tumor of the adrenal gland. Additional immunostaining (IHC)of these tumors showed positive immunostaining for chromogranin and ACTH. The IHC search for somatostatin receptors of subtype 2 and 5 (SSTR2, SSTR5) was performed in 3 cases and showed predominately expression SSTR2. The case index of Ki-67 ranged, from 0,5 to 4%. Biochemical signs of hypercortisolism rapidly began to disappear after surgery. Follow up of the patients during the next 2 years on average was with disease remission.
Metformin reduces energy consumption and increases satiety in obese children
Authors: Shvangiradze Teona Albertovna
Published: January 2016

Metformin reduces energy consumption and increases satiety in obese children
Study of Biodegradable Polyesters from Algal Sources for Use in Future Textile Fiber Applications
Authors: Banerjee Apurba , Singh Manjinder , Das Keshav , Sharma Suraj
Published: January 2016

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are a family of linear biodegradable thermoplastic polyesters that are synthesized in nature by bacterial fermentation. Their formation is triggered by a deficiency of nutrients and an excess supply of carbon sources. Despite the high yield of PHAs via bacterial fermentation, it is not an economically viable route. To reduce the cost, photoautotrophic production is thought to be a desired route. Cyanobacteria are one of the only prokaryotic species that naturally produces PHAs (under stress conditions) by photosynthesis. The current study describes the mixotrophic biosynthesis of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) in cyanobacteria (blue green algae) Nostoc muscorum followed by polymer extraction. The extracted polymers (in the fiber/yarn form) may have uses in various textile-related medical applications such as tissue scaffolds, sutures threads, and surgical meshes.
A Comparative Study on Absorbent Layers of Disposable Nursing Pads Produced from New Generation Fibers
Authors: Özdil Nilgün , Altaş Sevda
Published: January 2016

Nursing pads are generally used by nursing mothers to prevent staining of clothing and decrease skin irritation caused by leaking of milk. The aim of this study is the production of a new and alternative absorbent layer for disposable nursing pads. Mixtures of bamboo viscose, soybean, seaweed-embedded cellulose, and silver fibers with cotton fibers were used as raw materials for the production of absorbent layers. Water absorbency, air permeability, and handle properties of the fibers and blends, and antibacterial activity of the raw materials and silver-added absorbent layer were determined.
Image-Based Analysis of Seed Coat Fragments in Cotton Fabrics
Authors: Li Min , Fang Gang , Xu Changhai , Hinks David
Published: January 2016

Seed coat fragments (SCFs) in cotton fabrics are defects that negatively impact the value and quality of cotton if they are visible. The ability to accurately and rapidly count SCFs is important to efficient quality control and for research into improved cotton wet processing. Innovative scouring/bleaching using N-[4-(triethylammoniomethyl)benzoyl]butyrolactam chloride (TBBC) under neutral conditions produces satisfactory whiteness, but inferior performance in SCF removal. In this study, an image-based program was developed to quantitatively analyze SCFs based on their appearance on bleached cotton fabrics. With optimized thresholds, the program was capable of counting SCFs in fabric images semi-automatically, with a diagnostic sensitivity of 94.7% and an accuracy of 94.1%. Compared to the conventional method, image-based counting gave high accuracy and sensitivity.
Flame-Resistant Polyester Fiber Automotive Interior Materials
Authors: Du Zhaofang , Fu Zhengting , Hu Fengxia , Wang Anyang , Dong Dandan
Published: January 2016

The DBDPE (decabromodiphenyl ethane)/Sb2O3 flame-retardant (FR) system has been adopted to study the FR treatment of polyester (PET) fiber used in automotive interior carpet. The effect of low-temperature plasma processing was also studied. By using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential thermal analysis (DTA), and cone calorimetry, tests and analyses have been done to study PET interior carpet treated in various ways. The test results show that PET carpet had better FR performance after DBDPE/Sb2O3 treatment. Furthermore, the treated PET's FR performance was improved when low-temperature plasma treatment preceded the FR-treatment.
Water-Energy Nexus in Shared River Basins: How Hydropower Shapes Cooperation and Coordination
Authors: Kouangpalath Phimthong , Meijer Karen
Published: January 2016

The construction of hydropower plants on transboundary rivers is seldom done with equal benefits to all riparians, and therefore presents coordination and cooperation challenges. Without a supra-national authority in charge of transboundary river basins, coordination between sectors (water, energy and environment) and cooperation between countries largely depends on willingness of the individual nation states and the power relations between these countries. This paper discusses how the interests and relative power positions of actors in transboundary water management shape the outcomes, and what roles are played by River Basin Organisations and foreign investors (especially in hydropower development). These issues are illustrated with examples from the Mekong river in Southeast Asia (Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam), the Euphrates-Tigris (Turkey, Syria, Iraq, Iran and Kuwait) and the Çoruh in Turkey and Georgia.
Agriculture, biofuels and watersheds in the waterenergy- food nexus: governance challenges at local and global scales
Authors: Mwale Joseph T. , Mirzabaev Alisher
Published: January 2016

Agricultural land use in watersheds for food and biofuels production presents several challenges within the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) nexus at the local and global scales. Firstly, high global energy prices may lead to increasing demand for bio-energy crops, thereby intensifying the competition for arable land and water with food crops. There may be potential net welfare benefits from bio-energy development in terms of poverty reduction, higher agricultural household incomes, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. However, so far, there has been little quantitative research evaluating and communicating the nexus synergies and trade-offs. Another challenge is that differentiation of gender roles in the nexus trade-offs and synergies is mostly overlooked. This results in marginalisation of mostly the female gender in land use decisions. Therefore, there is a need for quantitative evidence-based research and incentive frameworks for governing the nexus to ensure the continuity and progress in global and local food supply and bio-energy development, while maintaining the sustainability of the watershed ecological services.
Stable cohomology of the perfect cone toroidal compactification of 𝒜
g
Authors: Grushevsky Samuel , Hulek Klaus , Tommasi Orsola
Published: January 2016

We show that the cohomology of the perfect cone (also called first Voronoi) toroidal compactification

𝒜
g
Perf

{{{\mathcal{A}}_{g}^{\operatorname{Perf}}}}

of the moduli space of complex principally polarized abelian varieties stabilizes in close to the top degree. Moreover, we show that this stable cohomology is purely algebraic, and we compute
it in degree up to 13. Our explicit computations and stabilization results apply in greater generality to various toroidal compactifications and partial compactifications, and in particular we show that the cohomology of the matroidal partial compactification

𝒜
g
Matr

{{{\mathcal{A}}_{g}^{\operatorname{Matr}}}}

stabilizes in fixed degree, and forms a polynomial algebra. For degree up to 8, we describe explicitly the generators of the cohomology, and discuss various approaches to computing all of the stable cohomology in general.
Design and synthesis of a novel rhodamine-based chemosensor and recognition study to Fe3+
Authors: Zhang Feifei , Gao Qi , Zhao Junxia , Ge Man , Bai Yinjuan
Published: January 2016

A fluorescent and colorimetric chemosensor Rh1 for Fe3+ was synthesized by condensation reaction of rhodamine B hydrochloride and 2-aminothiazole, and its structure was confirmed by NMR, IR, HRMS and crystal data. Upon coordination with Fe3+ in CH3CN-H2O (1:1, v/v) solution, the spirolactam of Rh1 is opened, which results in a dramatic enhancement of fluorescence intensity as well as the color change of the solution. Most importantly, other metal ions show no obvious interference with the detection of Fe3+. Under the optimum conditions described, the fluorescence intensity is linearly proportional to the concentration of Fe3+ in the range of 2 μm ~ 7 μm. The Job’s plot indicates a 1:1 binding stoichiometry between Rh1 and Fe3+. The association constant (Ka) is 2.26 × 104
m
-1.
Contactless dynamic tests for analyzing effects of speed and temperature on the natural frequency of a machine tool spindle
Authors: Matsubara Atsushi , Asano Kohei , Muraki Toshiyuki
Published: January 2016

This paper presents a contactless dynamic test for characterizing several effects on the dynamic stiffness, in particular the first mode frequency, in the radial direction of a rigidly preloaded spindle. The effects of the static load, spindle speed, and spindle outer race temperature on the frequency response function (FRF) are investigated independently in different measurement steps. The first mode frequency was estimated from the measured FRF to evaluate the effects. In the test measurement for a spindle with rigid preload, both thermal and speed effects on the first mode frequency were quantitatively evaluated and a simple prediction model based on the measured data is presented.
Crystal structure of 4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-6-pyrimidinylferrocene, C17H14FeN4
Authors: Wang Xin-Ling , Li Hong-Mei
Published: January 2016

C17H14FeN4, monoclinic, P21/c, a = 11.8213(11) Å, b = 10.3610(10) Å, c = 11.8552(11) Å, α = γ = 90°, β = 101.1540(10)°, V = 1424.6(2) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt
(F) = 0.0233, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.0653, T = 296(2) K.
Crystal structure of catena-poly[bis(μ
2-4-(3-(pyridin-3-yl)-1H-1,2,4-triazol-5-yl)benzoato)-κ
2
N:O)copper(II)] dihydrate, C28H22N8O6Cu
Authors: Zhao Yan , Zhu Mei
Published: January 2016

C28H22O6N8Cu, Triclinic, P1̅, a = 6.826(5) Å, b = 9.040(7) Å, c = 10.930(8) Å, α = 101.068(8)°, β = 95.054(8)°, γ = 96.278(8)°, V = 653.8(9) Å3, Z = 1, R
gt
(F) = 0.0469, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.1063, T = 293(2) K.
Liberal Education in Asia: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Lewis Pericles , Rupp Katherine
Published: January 2016

In this article, we seek to establish what liberal education means in the Asia of today by examining different institutions in India, Japan, South Korea, and China. In particular, we have analyzed fourteen such programs and identified certain commonalities, as well as important differences, particularly involving governance structure. We then offer some insights gleaned from the first three years of one of the largest such undertakings, Yale-NUS College in Singapore. We conclude that partnerships with U.S. institutions offer expertise and prestige, but the spread of liberal education in Asia will also depend on change within the relatively rigid but prestigious public systems that dominate most education in the region. The curriculum should embrace the local culture but put it in conversation with broader trends both in Asia and the West. In order for these institutions to thrive, faculty and students must be free to teach, study, and conduct research on controversial subjects without political interference.
Antieigenvalue analysis for continuum mechanics, economics, and number theory
Authors: Gustafson Karl
Published: January 2016

My recent book Antieigenvalue Analysis, World-Scientific, 2012, presented the theory of antieigenvalues from its inception in 1966 up to 2010, and its applications within those forty-five years to Numerical Analysis, Wavelets, Statistics, Quantum Mechanics, Finance, and Optimization. Here I am able to offer three further areas of application: Continuum Mechanics, Economics, and Number Theory. In particular, the critical angle of repose in a continuum model of granular materials is shown to be exactly my matrix maximum turning angle of the stress tensor of the material. The important Sharpe ratio of the Capital Asset Pricing Model is now seen in terms of my antieigenvalue theory. Euclid’s Formula for Pythagorean triples becomes a special case of my operator trigonometry.
Nonlinear maps preserving Lie products on triangular algebras
Authors: Yu Weiyan
Published: January 2016

In this paper we prove that every bijection preserving Lie products from a triangular algebra onto a normal triangular algebra is additive modulo centre. As an application, we described the form of bijections preserving Lie products on nest algebras and block upper triangular matrix algebras.
Landscape of somatic mutations in sporadic GH-secreting pituitary adenomas
Authors: Ronchi Cristina L , Peverelli Erika , Herterich Sabine , Weigand Isabel , Mantovani Giovanna , Schwarzmayr Thomas , Sbiera Silviu , Allolio Bruno , Honegger Jürgen , Appenzeller Silke , Lania Andrea G , Reincke Martin , Calebiro Davide , Spada Anna , Buchfelder Michael , Flitsch Joerg , Strom Tim M , Fassnacht Martin
Published: January 2016

Context

Alterations in the cAMP signaling pathway are common in hormonally active endocrine tumors. Somatic mutations atGNASare causative in 30–40% of GH-secreting adenomas. Recently, mutations affecting theUSP8andPRKACAgene have been reported in ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas and cortisol-secreting adrenocortical adenomas respectively. However, the pathogenesis of many GH-secreting adenomas remains unclear.

Aim

Comprehensive genetic characterization of sporadic GH-secreting adenomas and identification of new driver mutations.

Design

Screening for somatic mutations was performed in 67 GH-secreting adenomas by targeted sequencing forGNAS,PRKACA, andUSP8mutations (n=31) and next-generation exome sequencing (n=36).

Results

By targeted sequencing, known activating mutations inGNASwere detected in five cases (16.1%), while no somatic mutations were observed in bothPRKACAandUSP8. Whole-exome sequencing identified 132 protein-altering somatic mutations in 31/36 tumors with a median of three mutations per sample (range: 1–13). The only recurrent mutations have been observed inGNAS(31.4% of cases). However, seven genes involved in cAMP signaling pathway were affected in 14 of 36 samples and eight samples harbored variants in genes involved in the calcium signaling or metabolism. At the enrichment analysis, several altered genes resulted to be associated with developmental processes. No significant correlation between genetic alterations and the clinical data was observed.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of somatic mutations in a large series of GH-secreting adenomas. No novel recurrent genetic alterations have been observed, but the data suggest that beside cAMP pathway, calcium signaling might be involved in the pathogenesis of these tumors.
Germline PARP4 mutations in patients with primary thyroid and breast cancers
Authors: Ikeda Yuji , Kiyotani Kazuma , Yew Poh Yin , Kato Taigo , Tamura Kenji , Yap Kai Lee , Nielsen Sarah M , Mester Jessica L , Eng Charis , Nakamura Yusuke , Grogan Raymon H
Published: January 2016

Germline mutations in the PTEN gene, which cause Cowden syndrome, are known to be one of the genetic factors for primary thyroid and breast cancers; however, PTEN mutations are found in only a small subset of research participants with non-syndrome breast and thyroid cancers. In this study, we aimed to identify germline variants that may be related to genetic risk of primary thyroid and breast cancers. Genomic DNAs extracted from peripheral blood of 14 PTEN WT female research participants with primary thyroid and breast cancers were analyzed by whole-exome sequencing. Gene-based case-control association analysis using the information of 406 Europeans obtained from the 1000 Genomes Project database identified 34 genes possibly associated with the phenotype with P<1.0×10−3. Among them, rare variants in the PARP4 gene were detected at significant high frequency (odds ratio=5.2; P=1.0×10−5). The variants, G496V and T1170I, were found in six of the 14 study participants (43%) while their frequencies were only 0.5% in controls. Functional analysis using HCC1143 cell line showed that knockdown of PARP4 with siRNA significantly enhanced the cell proliferation, compared with the cells transfected with siControl (P=0.02). Kaplan–Meier analysis using Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), European Genome-phenome Archive (EGA) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets showed poor relapse-free survival (P<0.001, Hazard ratio 1.27) and overall survival (P=0.006, Hazard ratio 1.41) in a PARP4 low-expression group, suggesting that PARP4 may function as a tumor suppressor. In conclusion, we identified PARP4 as a possible susceptibility gene of primary thyroid and breast cancer.
TERT promoter mutations in thyroid cancer
Authors: Liu Rengyun , Xing Mingzhao
Published: January 2016

The 2013 discovery of Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutations chr5, 1,295,228 C>T (C228T) and 1,295,250 C>T (C250T) in thyroid cancer represents an important event in the thyroid cancer field and much progress has occurred since then. This article provides a comprehensive review of this exciting new thyroid cancer field. The oncogenic role of TERT promoter mutations involves their creation of consensus binding sites for E-twenty-six transcriptional factors. TERT C228T is far more common than TERT C250T and their collective prevalence is, on average, 0, 11.3, 17.1, 43.2 and 40.1% in benign thyroid tumors, papillary thyroid cancer (PTC), follicular thyroid cancer, poorly differentiated thyroid cancer and anaplastic thyroid cancer, respectively, displaying an association with aggressive types of thyroid cancer. TERT promoter mutations are associated with aggressive thyroid tumor characteristics, tumor recurrence and patient mortality as well as BRAF V600E mutation. Coexisting BRAF V600E and TERT promoter mutations have a robust synergistic impact on the aggressiveness of PTC, including a sharply increased tumor recurrence and patient mortality, while either mutation alone has a modest impact. Thus, TERT with promoter mutations represents a prominent new oncogene in thyroid cancer and the mutations are promising new diagnostic and prognostic genetic markers for thyroid cancer, which, in combination with BRAF V600E mutation or other genetic markers (e.g. RAS mutations), are proving to be clinically useful for the management of thyroid cancer. Future studies will specifically define such clinical utilities, elucidate the biological mechanisms and explore the potential as therapeutic targets of TERT promoter mutations in thyroid cancer.
Microvesicles and exosomes: new players in metabolic and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Lawson Charlotte , Vicencio Jose M , Yellon Derek M , Davidson Sean M
Published: January 2016

The past decade has witnessed an exponential increase in the number of publications referring to extracellular vesicles (EVs). For many years considered to be extracellular debris, EVs are now seen as novel mediators of endocrine signalling via cell-to-cell communication. With the capability of transferring proteins and nucleic acids from one cell to another, they have become an attractive focus of research for different pathological settings and are now regarded as both mediators and biomarkers of disease including cardio-metabolic disease. They also offer therapeutic potential as signalling agents capable of targeting tissues or cells with specific peptides or miRNAs. In this review, we focus on the role that microvesicles (MVs) and exosomes, the two most studied classes of EV, have in diabetes, cardiovascular disease, endothelial dysfunction, coagulopathies, and polycystic ovary syndrome. We also provide an overview of current developments in MV/exosome isolation techniques from plasma and other fluids, comparing different available commercial and non-commercial methods. We describe different techniques for their optical/biochemical characterization and quantitation. We also review the signalling pathways that exosomes and MVs activate in target cells and provide some insight into their use as biomarkers or potential therapeutic agents. In summary, we give an updated focus on the role that these exciting novel nanoparticles offer for the endocrine community.
Combined albumin and bicarbonate induces head-to-head sperm agglutination which physically prevents equine sperm–oviduct binding
Authors: Leemans Bart , Gadella Bart M , Stout Tom A E , Sostaric Edita , Schauwer Catharina De , Nelis Hilde , Hoogewijs Maarten , Van Soom Ann
Published: January 2016

In many species, sperm binding to oviduct epithelium is believed to be an essential step in generating a highly fertile capacitated sperm population primed for fertilization. In several mammalian species, this interaction is based on carbohydrate-lectin recognition.d-galactose has previously been characterized as a key molecule that facilitates sperm–oviduct binding in the horse. We used oviduct explant and oviduct apical plasma membrane (APM) assays to investigate the effects of various carbohydrates; glycosaminoglycans; lectins; S-S reductants; and the capacitating factors albumin, Ca2+and HCO3−on sperm–oviduct binding in the horse. Carbohydrate-specific lectin staining indicated thatN-acetylgalactosamine,N-acetylneuraminic acid (sialic acid) andd-mannose ord-glucose were the most abundant carbohydrates on equine oviduct epithelia, whereasd-galactose moieties were not detected. However, in a competitive binding assay, sperm–oviduct binding density was not influenced by any tested carbohydrates, glycosaminoglycans, lectins ord-penicillamine, nor did the glycosaminoglycans induce sperm tail-associated protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Furthermore,N-glycosidase F (PNGase) pretreatment of oviduct explants and APM did not alter sperm–oviduct binding density. By contrast, a combination of the sperm-capacitating factors albumin and HCO3−severely reduced (>10-fold) equine sperm–oviduct binding density by inducing rapid head-to-head agglutination, both of which events were independent of Ca2+and an elevated pH (7.9). Conversely, neither albumin and HCO3−nor any other capacitating factor could induce release of oviduct-bound sperm. In conclusion, a combination of albumin and HCO3−markedly induced sperm head-to-head agglutination which physically prevented stallion sperm to bind to oviduct epithelium.
Update and Perspective on Anesthesia and Cognitive Dysfunction
Authors: Tian Yi
Published: January 2016

Decrease in cognitive capacity after anesthesia has been admired by the medical profession and public for a long time. It is a settled process after cardiopulmonary surgery and late research uncovers it to be a shockingly common result after different sorts of real surgery. Much stays obscure about its etiology; however the suggestions for anesthesia and surgery in an undeniably seemingly perpetual populace are extensive. Clinically, cognitive dysfunction can be characterized as debilitation of cognitive dysfunctions, including memory, learning, focus, and speed of mental action. Influencing surgical patients in all age bunches over the short term, cognitive dysfunction shows days or weeks after surgery and shows quicker determination in more youthful populations, in spite of the fact that it might be perpetual. Generally, communicated by patients as another powerlessness to finish once effectively feasible tasks, signs include trouble staying concentrated on an errand, failure to multitask, trouble discovering words and reviewing information recently obtained. In more extreme cases, post-operative cognitive dysfunction can bring about a calamitous loss of cognitive capacity, with related expanded mortality, danger of rashly leaving work, and reliance on social welfare.
A kiégési szindróma megelőzése — A hagyományoktól a modern információs technológiákig
Authors: Szényei Gábor András , Ádám Szilvia , Győrffy Zsuzsa , Túry Ferenc
Published: January 2016

Háttér és célkitűzés

A kiégés a segítő foglalkozásúak gyakori szindrómája, mely az egyéni terheken túl az egészségügyi ellátó rendszer nehézségeihez vezet. Megelőzése alapvető fontosságú egyéni és szervezeti szinten egyaránt. Áttekintő tanulmányunkban a kiégés megelőzésének újabb módszereit összegezzük.

Módszer

Az utóbbi évtized irodalmi adatainak áttekintése. Elsősorban az újabb eljárásokat bemutató és hatékonyságot elemző kutatásokra támaszkodtunk (például az „e-mental health” terén végzett vizsgálatokra).

Eredmények

Az elsődleges, másodlagos és harmadlagos prevencióban gyakran alkalmaznak hagyományos módszereket (például relaxációkat, kognitív-viselkedésterápiás elemeket). Az újabb eljárások között említendők a stresszmenedzsment programjai, a mindfulness alkalmazása. A legmodernebb eszközök az új információs technológiák, amelyekkel egyre több prevenciós program él. Az új prevenciós stratégiák között ki kell emelni a prevenciós eszközök személyre szabott alkalmazását, valamint a szervezeti kultúra fejlesztését célzó programokat, amelyek egészségpolitikai lépések szükségességére is felhívják a figyelmet.

Következtetés

A kiégés megelőzése a munkalélektanban és a segítő foglalkozások terén lényeges feladat a szakemberek védelme és az ellátás minősége, valamint az egészségügyi gazdaságosság szempontjából. A prevenciót szolgáló programok hatékonysága jó, bár még kevés randomizált, kontrollált vizsgálat készült.
Biomineralised interpenetrating network hydrogels for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Ingavle Ganesh , Avadhanam Venkata , Zheng Yishan , Liu Christopher , Sandeman Susan
Published: January 2016

Hydrogels are attractive for tissue engineering applications due to their incredible versatility, but their use is limited by inadequate mechanical strength and poor biocompatibility. In this study, to better mimic the mineral component and the mechanical strength of natural bone, two biocompatible materials, 2-hydroxyethyl agarose and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, were combined with nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (nHAp)-coated poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres. A novel composite interpenetrating network (IPN) hydrogel scaffold was created to investigate its mechanical and osteoconductive performance for bone tissue engineering-related applications. The inclusion of nHAp-coated PLGA microspheres in an IPN hydrogel led to an increase in compressive modulus. In the absence of nHAp-coated microspheres, cell viability dropped to 59·1% at 3 weeks post-encapsulation. However, by incorporating nHAp-coated microspheres, cell viability improved to 80·6%. The capacity of composite IPN hydrogels to promote bone formation in cell culture was assessed. In the presence of mineralised microspheres, a composite IPN gel showed a significant increase in alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium (Ca) deposition following 3 weeks of incubation when compared with plain IPNs. This technology may be also applied to other cell-based applications where the improved mechanical integrity and osteoconductivity of cell-containing IPN hydrogels may be used to mimic bone tissue replacement.
Briefing: An update on reservoir safety regulation in Scotland
Authors: Thomas Huw V. H.
Published: January 2016

The regulatory landscape for reservoir safety in Scotland is changing. The regulatory duties are being transferred from local authorities to the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) in a phased manner through implementation of the Reservoirs (Scotland) Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’). This paper summarises the transitional timetable and describes the registration requirements for existing large raised reservoirs. The risk designation process for registered reservoirs is highlighted and information given on a new charging scheme for reservoir safety. New powers in the form of civil sanctions are to be made available to SEPA through separate legislation, which will be used positively to achieve compliance with the legislation and to ensure that the reservoir structures are safe. Ongoing, good communication will be essential as both SEPA and the reservoir industry adjust to the new regulatory regime in Scotland.
Mobility, Media (tions) and Culture
Authors: Araújo Emilia , Cogo Denise , Pinto Manuel
Published: January 2016

Nowadays, in Europe and the world, we experience the continued effervescence of mobility, dislocation, travels and comings and goings...
Tecnologias caracol e culturas na era da mobilidade: comunicação móvel e identidades no tempo/espaço Shuar
Authors: Agra Saleta de Salvador , Suárez Yolanda Martínez
Published: January 2016

Na antologia móvel e na cosmovisão Shuar dinâmica, cíclica e unidimensional, o tempo transcorre e, com ele, simultaneamente, o espaço. Autores como Ling e Haddon enfatizaram a influência dos telemóveis nos modelos de deslocação e destacaram a “liberdade de contato” que nos oferecem, dada a sua natureza nómada, permitindo libertar-nos do contexto espacial e transladar-nos para o espaço de fluxos comunicativos, onde apenas se mantém o tempo, ou onde, como diria um Shuar, o espaço transcorre em simultâneo com o tempo. Se os aparelhos móveis nos instigam a uma vida nómada, convertendo-nos em caracóis (Fortunati, 2005) que carregam na carapaça toda uma rede de relações, uma análise aos usos dos telefones móveis – desse ponto de vista – e em relação a um povo de tradição nómada como os Shuar, revela-se extremamente pertinente. A metáfora do caracol, que gira em constante espiral e que os Shuar empregam para descrever a sua cosmovisão e o modo como concebem a natureza, recorda a atual tecnologia móvel que todos “carregamos em cima”. O objetivo deste texto consiste, assim, em relacionar as cosmovisões da era móvel com a indígena Shuar, de forma a analisar as similitudes e diferenças na conceção espaciotemporal, assim como as suas repercussões identitárias
Comparison of Family Power Structure and Identity Style Between Delinquent and Non-Delinquent Juveniles
Authors: Khodabakhshi-Koolaee Anahita , Rahmatizadeh Masoumeh , Shaghelanilor Hossein , Pocock Lesley
Published: January 2016

Background:: Adolescence denotes a time in which youth begins to experience dangerous behaviors like substance use and delinquency. Objectives:: In this study, we investigated the family power structure and identity style in delinquent and non-delinquent juveniles residing in Tehran, Iran. Materials and Methods:: To accomplish the goal of the study, 80 adolescent delinquents of the correction and rehabilitation centers aged between 15 and 18 years were selected with convenience sampling method and 80 students of secondary school age between 15 and 18 years in Tehran, Iran in 2012. They answered the instrument of family power structure (Saidian, 2004) and identity style (ISI-6G: White et al. 1998). The obtained data were analyzed using the independent t-test, chi-square test, and Levene’s test. Results:: The findings indicated a significant difference between delinquent and non-delinquent juveniles with regard to family power structure, its subscales (P < 0.001), and identity style (P < 0.001). Moreover, the informational identity style was associated with lower levels of delinquency. In addition, a diffuse-evident identity style was related to the delinquency. Conclusions:: These results emphasize that the inappropriate decision-making process pattern in a family has a significant effect on deviant behavior and identity style in adolescents. So, family power structure can be considered in therapeutic interventions (prevention and treatment) for adolescent delinquency.
Developing a Local Cultural Indicator Framework in Australia: A Case Study of the City of Whittlesea
Authors: Yue Audrey , Khan Rimi , Brook Scott
Published: January 2016

This paper critically examines the cultural planning agenda of the City of Whittlesea, a local government municipality in Australia, and considers its impact on the region‟s multicultural communities. Located on the metropolitan fringe, the City is geographically one of the largest and most diverse municipalities in greater Melbourne, with more than half of the residents from non-Anglo-Celtic backgrounds. First, the paper shows how sustainability is achieved through a structure of inter-departmental collaboration as well as in a cultural planning focus on community cultural development. Next, it examines how sustainability is implemented in its policies and programs through the development of cultural citizenship. Finally, it evaluates two community events to consider the extent of cultural participation. Combining empirical data and theoretical research, this paper aims to produce a working model for developing local cultural indicators to measure the cultural participation of non-Anglo Celtic communities. Specifically, this paper hopes to establish cultural indicators with direct policy relevance for local government, and incorporate a detailed consideration of the „use-context‟ of the cultural indicators in the City in order to provide a template for best practice at municipal program levels. A localized cultural indicator framework will enable robust tools of measurement to account for thick narratives of multicultural participation that can continue to enhance well-being, place making, and belonging.
Neighbourhood Cultural Mapping: Lessons Learned from a Pilot Project in Bayshore
Authors: Dick Ben
Published: January 2016

The cultural mapping project in Bayshore was the first of three neighbourhood cultural mapping pilot projects in Ottawa. City-wide cultural mapping in Ottawa had shown Bayshore to have few cultural resources, and socio-economic indicators had shown Bayshore to be a low-income neighbourhood that faced many problems. However, discussions with neighbourhood residents told a different story. Bayshore has many cultural resources, though they are often intangible. Its residents benefit from the neighbourhood’s cultural diversity, as it is one of the most diverse neighbourhoods in the city. Informal networks have been established in Bayshore that provide support to new immigrants, and a wide variety of specialty stores and restaurants have been established nearby to serve this diverse community. The neighbourhood’s diversity may also be supporting the development of a creative cluster nearby. The Bayshore project forced the City’s cultural mapping team to re-think the way culture is defined and categorized.Keywords: neighbourhood cultural mapping, intangible cultural assets, informal networks, cultural diversity, creative clusterRésumé: Le projet de Bayshore est le premier de trois projets pilotes de cartographie culturelle initiés à la ville d’Ottawa. Une cartographie culturelle à l’échelle de la ville a révélé que le quartier de Bayshore était moins doté au plan de ressources culturelles que d’autres quartiers de la ville. De plus, les indicateurs révèlent que le quartier en question est également un quartier à faible revenu qui est confronté à plusieurs problématiques sociales et économiques. Cependant, des entretiens auprès des résidents du quartier nous offrent une autre perspective. Ces entretiens révèlent notamment que les ressources culturelles de Bayshore sont sous-estimées puisqu’elles sont souvent intangibles. Il est révélé que les résidents du quartier tirent profit de la diversité du quartier le plus culturellement diversifié de la ville. Bayshore se caractérise par une diversité de réseaux sociaux informels et par une grande diversité de commerces et de restaurants. Cette grande diversité serait un facteur qui participerait au développement d’une grappe créative dans un quartier voisin. Cet article met en évidence plusieurs constats qui nous invitent à revoir et repenser comment la culture est construite et modélisée dans le cadre des projets de cartographie culturelle.Mots clé: cartographie culturelle d’un voisinage, ressources culturelles immatérielles, réseaux informels, diversité culturelle, groupement créatif
Approximation of the encircled energy function for the far-field diffraction of a plane light wave by planar complex-shaped apertures
Authors:   P.N. Lebedev Physical Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Sizova I.
Published: January 2016

A method for approximating the encircled energy in a definite solid angle in the Fraunhofer region by the simulation of the optical transfer function derivative is proposed. The selection of free model parameters allow one to obtain a valid expansion of the encircled energy at the origin of the angular coordinate and at infinity, providing a good approximation in the intermediate domain.
Characteristics of sharp focusing of vortex Laguerre-Gaussian beams
Authors:   Image Processing Systems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Samara State Aerospace University, Savelyev D. , Khonina S. ,   Image Processing Systems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences,   Samara State Aerospace University
Published: January 2016

We investigate the intensity distribution of sharply focused Laguerre-Gaussian beams in relation to the uniform (linear and circular) polarization of the beam and the order of the vortex phase. It is shown that to the greatest extent the polarization state affects the longitudinal component of the electric vector of the light field. The greatest visual difference in the total intensity patterns for different polarization types is observed when using a first-order phase vortex. The use of a diffractive axicon improves focusing when compared with an aplanatic lens.
Diffractive vortex lenses for forming vortex light beams
Authors:   Image Processing Systems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Skidanov R. ,   Samara State Aerospace University, Ganchevskaya S. ,   Image Processing Systems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences,   Samara State Aerospace University
Published: January 2016

Generation of vortex laser beams by use of a parabolic vortex lens is discussed. We show that when generating such beams, topological charges of the vortex lens structure and those of the lens individual zones are summed up.
Comparative modeling of amplitude and phase zone plates
Authors:   Image Processing Systems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kozlova E. ,   Samara State Aerospace University, Kotlyar V. ,   Image Processing Systems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences,   Samara State Aerospace University, Nalimov A. ,   Image Processing Systems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences,   Samara State Aerospace University
Published: January 2016

In this paper using FDTD-method, we conduct a comparative modeling of a sharp focus of the laser light by using binary-phase and binary-amplitude Fresnel zone plates, with the latter being fabricated as thin metal films of 20-30-nm thickness. Subwavelength local maximums are found near the rings of the silver zone plates, with their intensity being comparable with the intensity in the focus. They can be explained by the excitation of surface plasmons.
Modeling of GPU computing using difference schemes
Authors:   Samara State Aerospace University, Vorotnikova D. ,   Image Processing Systems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kochurov A. ,   Samara State Aerospace University,   Image Processing Systems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Golovashkin D. ,   Samara State Aerospace University,   Image Processing Systems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: January 2016

We propose models of GPU (graphics processing unit) computing that can be recommended for implementation of explicit and implicit difference schemes on GPUs. In particular, these are models for selecting an optimal vector length in the 'long-vector' algorithms and for finding an optimal pyramid height in corresponding parallel algorithms.
An algorithm for generating digital watermarks robust against brute-force attacks
Authors:   Samara State Aerospace University, Mitekin V. ,   Image Processing Systems Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: January 2016

This paper presents a new method for high-capacity robust watermarking of hyperspectral images. A new algorithm for two-dimensional “noise-like” watermarking patterns generation is proposed as part of robust watermark embedding and detection procedures. The experimental research provided in this work shows that the average complexity of the brute-force key retrieval attack can be increased to 1014 watermark extraction attempts (compared to 104-105 for known robust watermarking schemes). Experimental results also show that the watermark preserves its robustness against lossy compression of host video, at the same time preserving a higher video quality (PSNR up to 51dB) compared to known wavelet-based and DCT-based watermarking algorithms.
1st National Conference on Innovations in Chemical Sciences & Technology (Abstract Proceedings)
Authors: Dwivedi Dr Priy Brat , Retna Dr A Malar
Published: January 2016

We the Department of Chemistry, Scott Christian College (Autonomous) put forth the National Conference on Innovations in Chemical Sciences and Technology NCICST- 2015 covering the concepts to update the various version of chemistry. It is the sincere hope of organizers of NCICST 2015 that the deliberations and proceedings of the conference will be fruitfully utilized by researchers in forthcoming days. I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all the organizers and faculty members of the Department of Chemistry for their sincere efforts. And I will feel grateful if this conference could contribute its mile to the world and society to bring up prosperity and enlightenment.Dr.A.Malar Retna Convener NCICSTTranslated in MalayKami Jabatan Kimia, Christian College Scott (Autonomi) putforth Persidangan Kebangsaan Inovasi dalam Sains Kimia dan Teknologi NCICST- 2015 meliputi konsep untuk mengemaskini versi pelbagai kimia. Adalah menjadi harapan ikhlas penganjur NCICST 2015, bahawa pertimbangtelitian dan prosiding persidangan itu akan fruitfully digunakan oleh penyelidik dalam hari keluar akan datang.Saya mengambil kesempatan ini untuk mengucapkan terima kasih kepada semua pihak penganjur dan fakultianggota Jabatan kimia untuk usaha-usaha ikhlas mereka. Aku akan bersyukur jika persidangan ini boleh menyumbang batu kepada dunia dan masyarakat untuk membawa kemakmuran dan penyedaran.