bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of 44 Cases before the Landlord and Tenant Board Involving Bed Bug Infestations in Ontario, Canada: Focus on Adjudicator Decisions Based on Entomological/Pest Management Evidence and Accountability under the Residential Tenancy Act and Other Applicable Legislation
Authors: Bryks Sam
Published: July 2011

The resurgence of bed bugs in major urban centres in North America has resulted in conflict between landlords and tenants. This is commonly focused on attribution of blame for source of infestation, on responsibility, on costs for preparation, treatment and losses, and for compensation as rent abatement and/or alternative temporary housing. In Ontario, Canada, these issues are often decided by adjudicators at the Landlord and Tenant Board hearing claims, counter-claims and defense by legal representation (lawyers and paralegals) as well as through mediation. Evidence in these hearings may include photographs, invoices for costs as well as testimony by tenants, landlords and “expert witnesses” who are most often pest control firms representing their landlord clients. A total of 44 Landlord and Tenant Board adjudicated cases available online were analyzed. The analysis included elements of the decisions such as adjudicator, claimant (landlord or tenant), basis of claim, review of evidence, amount of claim, amount awarded, and evaluation of the quality of the evidence. The results of the analysis of these findings are discussed. Recommendations for improvement of adjudicator decisions on the basis of knowledge of bed bug biology and Integrated Pest Management best practices are presented as well as the importance of education of tenants and landlords to a process of mutual trust, support and accountability.
Biogeography and Phylogeny of Wood-feeding Cockroaches in the Genus Cryptocercus
Authors: Maekawa Kiyoto , Nalepa Christine A.
Published: July 2011

Subsocial, xylophagous cockroaches of the genus Cryptocercus exhibit a disjunct distribution, with representatives in mature montane forests of North America, China, Korea and the Russian Far East. All described species are wingless and dependent on rotting wood for food and shelter at all stages of their life cycle; consequently, their distribution is tied to that of forests and strongly influenced by palaeogeographical events. Asian and American lineages form distinct monophyletic groups, comprised of populations with complex geographic substructuring. We review the phylogeny and distribution of Cryptocercus, and discuss splitting events inferred from molecular data.
Antioxidant Activities of Extracts and Fractions from Eupatorium lindleyanum DC
Authors: Yan Guilong , Ji Lilian , Luo Yuming , Hu Yonghong
Published: July 2011

The antioxidant activities of water extract (WE), ethanol extract (EE), residue water extract (RWE) and petroleum ether (PF), ethyl acetate (EF), n-BuOH (BF) and water (WF) fractions of the ethanol extract from Eupatorium Lindley DC were investigated for the first time. Total phenolics content, DPPH radical scavenging activities, superoxide radical scavenging activities, total reduction capability, and ferrous ions chelating activities were determined for all the extracts and fractions. The results showed that all the extracts and fractions exhibited antioxidant activities with different magnitudes of potency. Among all the samples, WE and RWE exhibited the best antioxidant capacities, the BF also exhibited high antioxidant abilities in all tests except for the metal chelating activity, while the other extracts and fractions were relatively weak antioxidants. The BF had the highest total phenolics contents in all extracts and fractions, and the WE and RWE were found to be rich in tannins. Furthermore, the content of total phenolics showed good correlation with DPPH radical scavenging activity, superoxide anion radical scavenging activity, and the reducing power. Phenolic composition of all the extracts and fractions was identified and quantified by HPLC. The results indicate that the extracts of E. Lindley DC might be a useful potential source of natural antioxidant ingredients.
Benzylidene-bis-(4-Hydroxycoumarin) and Benzopyrano-Coumarin Derivatives: Synthesis, 1H/13C-NMR Conformational and X-ray Crystal Structure Studies and In Vitro Antiviral Activity Evaluations
Authors: Završnik Davorka , Muratović Samija , Makuc Damjan , Plavec Janez , Cetina Mario , Nagl Ante , Clercq Erik De , Balzarini Jan , Mintas Mladen
Published: July 2011

We report on the synthesis of 4-hydroxycoumarin dimers 1–15 bearing an aryl substituent on the central linker and fused benzopyranocoumarin derivatives 16–20 and on their in vitro broad anti-DNA and RNA virus activity evaluations. The chemical identities and structure of compounds 1–20 were deduced from their homo- and heteronuclear NMR measurements whereas the conformational properties of 5, 14 and 20 were assessed by the use of 1D difference NOE enhancements. Unequivocal proof of the stereostructure of compounds 7, 9, 16 and 18 was obtained by single crystal X-ray diffraction method. The X-ray crystal structure analysis revealed that two 4-hydroxycoumarin moieties in the 4-trifluoromethylphenyl- and 2-nitrophenyl derivatives (compounds 7 and 9, respectively) are intramolecularly hydrogen-bonded between hydroxyl and carbonyl oxygen atoms. Consequently, the compounds 7 and 9 adopt conformations in which two 4-hydroxy-coumarin moieties are anti-disposed. Antiviral activity evaluation results indicated that the 4-bromobenzylidene derivative of bis-(4-hydroxycoumarin) (compound 3) possesses inhibitory activity against HSV-1 (KOS), HSV-2 (G), vaccinia virus and HSV-1 TK- KOS (ACVr) at a concentration of 9–12 μM and at a minimum cytotoxic concentration (MCC) greater than 20 μM. Compounds 4–6, 8, and 20 were active against feline herpes virus (50% effective concentration, EC50 = 5–8.1 μM), that is at a 4-7-fold lower concentration than the MCC.
Enzyme-Immobilized Microfluidic Process Reactors
Authors: Asanomi Yuya , Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Miyazaki Masaya , Maeda Hideaki
Published: July 2011

Microreaction technology, which is an interdisciplinary science and engineering area, has been the focus of different fields of research in the past few years. Several microreactors have been developed. Enzymes are a type of catalyst, which are useful in the production of substance in an environmentally friendly way, and they also have high potential for analytical applications. However, not many enzymatic processes have been commercialized, because of problems in stability of the enzymes, cost, and efficiency of the reactions. Thus, there have been demands for innovation in process engineering, particularly for enzymatic reactions, and microreaction devices represent important tools for the development of enzyme processes. In this review, we summarize the recent advances of microchannel reaction technologies especially for enzyme immobilized microreactors. We discuss the manufacturing process of microreaction devices and the advantages of microreactors compared to conventional reaction devices. Fundamental techniques for enzyme immobilized microreactors and important applications of this multidisciplinary technology are also included in our topics.
Towards Extrusion of Ionomers to Process Fuel Cell Membranes
Authors: Molmeret Yannick , Chabert France , Kissi Nadia El , Iojoiu Cristina , Mercier Regis , Sanchez Jean-Yves
Published: July 2011

While Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) membranes are currently prepared by film casting, this paper demonstrates the feasibility of extrusion, a solvent-free alternative process. Thanks to water-soluble process-aid plasticizers, duly selected, it was possible to extrude acidic and alkaline polysulfone ionomers. Additionally, the feasibility to extrude composites was demonstrated. The impact of the plasticizers on the melt viscosity was investigated. Following the extrusion, the plasticizers were fully removed in water. The extrusion was found to impact neither on the ionomer chains, nor on the performances of the membrane. This environmentally friendly process was successfully validated for a variety of high performance ionomers.
Isolation and Biochemical Characterization of Rubelase, a Non-Hemorrhagic Elastase from Crotalus ruber ruber (Red Rattlesnake) Venom
Authors: Komori Yumiko , Sakai Kaname , Masuda Katsuyoshi , Nikai Toshiaki
Published: July 2011

A novel non-hemorrhagic basic metalloprotease, rubelase, was isolated from the venom of Crotalus ruber ruber. Rubelase hydrolyzes succinyl-L-alanyl-L-alanyl-L-alanyl p-nitroanilide (STANA), a specific substrate for elastase, and the hydrolytic activity was inhibited by chelating agents. It also hydrolyzes collagen and fibrinogen. However, hemorrhagic activity was not observed. By ESI/Q-TOF and MALDI/TOF mass spectrometry combined with Edman sequencing procedure, the molecular mass of rubelase was determined to be 23,266 Da. Although its primary structure was similar to rubelysin (HT-2), a hemorrhagic metalloprotease isolated from the same snake venom, the circumstances surrounding putative zinc binding domain HEXXHXXGXXH were found to be different when the three-dimensional computer models of both metalloproteases were compared. The cytotoxic effects of rubelase and rubelysin on cultured endothelial and smooth muscle cells were also different, indicating that the substitution of several amino acid residues causes the changes of active-site conformation and cell preference.
Mechanism of Interaction of Novel Indolylarylsulfone Derivatives with K103N and Y181I Mutant HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase in Complex with its Substrates
Authors: Samuele Alberta , Bisi Sara , Kataropoulou Alexandra , Regina Giuseppe La , Piscitelli Francesco , Gatti Valerio , Silvestri Romano , Maga Giovanni
Published: July 2011

Background:

Novel indolylarylsulfones (lASs), designed through rational structure-based molecular modelling and docking approaches, have been recently characterized as effective inhibitors of the wild-type and drug-resistant mutant HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT).

Methods:

Here, we studied the interaction of selected halo- and nitra-substituted IAS derivatives, with the RT enzyme carrying the single resistance mutations K103N and Y181I through steady-state kinetic experiments. Results: The studied compounds exhibited high selectivity to the mutant RT in complex with its substrates, behaving as uncompetitive inhibitors. The presence of the K103N mutation, and to a lesser extent the Y181I, stabilized the drug interactions with the viral RT, when both its substrates were bound.

Conclusions:

The characterization of these mutation-specific effects on inhibitor binding might be relevant to the design of more effective new generation non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, with better resilience towards drug resistant mutants.
Nuevos taxones de Laparocerus Schoenherr, 1834 de El Hierro y La Gomera, islas Canarias (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae)
Authors: Machado A.
Published: July 2011

Se describe el subgénero Fortunotrox n. subg. (especie tipo: Laparocerus gracilis Wollaston, 1865) del género Laparocerus Schoenherr, 1834, al que se atribuyen doce especies endémicas de las Canarias occidentales (El Hierro, La Palma y La Gomera). De la isla de La Gomera se redescribe L. indutus Wollaston, 1865. Los ejemplares que tradicionalmente se venían asignando a esta especie pertenecen en realidad a L. confusus n. sp., que se describe junto con cuatro especies más: L. juelensis n. sp., L. rotundatus n. sp., L. pilosiventris n. sp., y L. magnificus n. sp. De la isla de El Hierro se describen: Laparocerus bimbache n. sp., L. cephalotes n. sp., L. orone hierrensis n. ssp., L. mateui tuberosus n. ssp., L. cavernarius n. sp. y L. hypogeus n. sp. De esta última isla se comentan cinco especies probablemente citadas por error, se cita por primera vez Laparocerus ellipticus Wollaston, 1863 y se aportan claves en español e inglés para determinar las especies de Laparocerus que la habitan.
Specific Sites of N-Linked Glycosylation on the Hemagglutinin of H1N1 Subtype Influenza A Virus Determine Sensitivity to Inhibitors of the Innate Immune System and Virulence in Mice
Authors: Tate Michelle D. , Brooks Andrew G. , Reading Patrick C.
Published: July 2011

Oligosaccharides on the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase of influenza A virus (IAV) are a target for recognition by lectins of the innate immune system, including soluble surfactant protein-D and the macrophage mannose receptor on airway macrophages. Glycans attached to the head of H1 subtype of IAV differ markedly in number and location. A reverse genetic approach was used to define the importance of particular N-glycosylation sites on H1 in determining sensitivity to innate immune defenses and virulence in mice. The HA of A/PR/8/34 (PR8, H1N1) and A/Brazil/11/78 (Brazil, H1N1) express zero and four glycosylation sites on the head of HA, respectively. Site-directed mutagenesis was used to add (PR8) or delete (Brazil) glycosylation sites, and IAV expressing wild-type or mutant HA were generated on a PR8 backbone. Addition or removal of particular glycans modulated sensitivity to mouse lung fluids but was not a major factor determining susceptibility of airway macrophages to infection. PR8 is a mouse-adapted virus, and mutations in multiple IAV genes have been shown to contribute to virulence, yet addition of glycosylation to PR8 HA was sufficient to attenuate disease. In contrast, removal of glycans from Brazil HA resulted in severe disease and death. These studies provide insight regarding the mechanisms by which IAV can induce disease in mice. Moreover, reduced glycosylation of HA is likely to be an important factor associated with adaptation of human IAV to growth in mouse lung.
Efficacy of trabectedin in metastatic solitary fibrous tumor
Authors: Chaigneau Loïc , Kalbacher Elsa , Thiery-Vuillemin Antoine , Fagnoni-Legat Christine , Isambert Nicolas , Aherfi Lionel , Pauchot Julien , Delroeux Delphine , Servagi-Vernat Stephanie , Mansi Laura , Pivot Xavier
Published: July 2011

Solitary fibrous tumor is a rare tumor type and has an unpredictable course. Local recurrence rate varies between 9 and 19%, and rate of metastatic involvement between 0 and 36 %. It is characterized by a typical architecture and immuno-histochemistry tests. The most important prognostic factor is the complete resection of primary tumor. Treatment of recurrences is not clearly established. If a solitary fibrous tumor is too advanced to allow surgical resection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be used. The most often used drugs are doxorubicine and\or ifosfamide. We report the case of man with metastatic solitary fibrous tumor treated with trabectedin, administered at a dose of 1.5 mg/m2 every 3 weeks. After 3 cycles, metastases had significantly decreased. Recurrence of the disease was demonstrated 8 months after the start of trabectedin. This case shows that trabectedin is a possible treatment option.
Potential granular aggregate resources in Northwest Territories and northern Yukon: an updated assessment integrating seismic shothole drillers' logs and surficial geology maps
Authors: Smith I R , Bednarski J M , Deblonde C , Duk-Rodkin A , Huntley D , Kennedy K E
Published: July 2011

This publication utilizes lithostratigraphic information provided by the revised and updated seismic shothole drillers' log database (GSC Open File 6833), and two other borehole databases, to identify potential granular aggregate resources. Lithostratigraphic
records are interpreted and presented in a GIS at two depth intervals; upper 10 m (76 958 records) and total shothole depth (89 019 records), and are distinguished by location (surface vs. subsurface) and sediment type (gravel; gravel + sand; sand). This point-stratigraphic information is augmented
by including granular aggregate-associated surficial geology map polygons (e.g., glaciofluvial deposits) from published and in progress maps throughout the Mackenzie corridor and northern Yukon. Where shothole records intersect map polygons, they can confirm the existence of aerially extensive
surface granular aggregate deposits, and by extension provide a characterization of their sedimentology and thickness. Where shothole data occurs outside of granular aggregate-associed map polygons they can identify sites potentially obscured by vegetation or missed during surficial geology mapping.
They also identify deposits in areas that have yet to be mapped.
Practical theology as ‘healing of memories’: Critical reflections on a specific methodology
Authors: Nell Ian A.
Published: July 2011

When developing new perspectives and paradigms for practical theology in South Africa, we obviously have to take our South African context seriously. We live in a post-conflict society in which gigantic sociocultural shifts have taken place since 1994. Many institutions and groups endeavour to address the conflict, injustices and pain of the past, including the Institute for the Healing of Memories (IHOM). The Institute makes use of a specific methodology in their workshops. Having participated in these workshops in congregational contexts as well as in the training of theological students, in this article I investigated the methodology of the Institute as a framework for new perspectives on practical theology in South Africa. Making use of Victor Turner’s theoretical construct of ‘social drama’ as one way of looking at the methodology of the IHOM, I reflected critically on the challenges that it poses to practical theology by making use of a ‘rhetorical frame’ and trying to delineate some constructive proposals for further reflections on practical theological paradigms and perspectives.
Galvanic Corrosion Study in Ethylene Glycol
Authors: Rostron P.
Published: July 2011

The potential for galvanic corrosion between carbon steel and duplex (22Cr) stainless steel in impure ethylene glycol (CH2OHCH2OH) is assessed. The temperature dependence of the corrosion is determined, as well as the effect of temperature on the conductivity of dry, wet, and impure wet ethylene glycol. The temperature dependence of the corrosion can be explained by the change in electrical resistance of the glycol with temperature. The authors also show the importance of testing corrosiveness by using the actual working fluid rather than a simulation fluid.
Genealogia, ontologia e paradigma da informática
Authors: Castro Murilo Cardoso de , Castro Raquel Cardoso de , Castro João Cardoso de
Published: July 2011

O desenvolvimento desse trabalho parte da obra “A Máquina Universal” de Pierre Lévy, excelente crítica da gestação da informática dentro da Razão Moderna, antes que Lévy se tornasse um total entusiasta das possibilidades desta tecnologia. Começamos por uma reflexão sobre a “máquina universal”, fundamento da informática e da informatização, passando em revista, brevemente, sua concepção. Avançamos sobre as ideias mentoras da máquina universal, sua genealogia e ontologia, no pensamento do "primeiro" Wittgenstein. Por último, uma breve análise do paradigma da informática formaliza as principais conclusões desta exposição.
A literatura sobre necessidades de informação: uma análise a partir de artigos publicados no Brasil
Authors: Hyodo Tatiana
Published: July 2011

Analisa os artigos publicados na revista “Ciência da Informação” nos últimos dez anos, através dos trabalhos que abordaram o tema “necessidades de informação dos usuários”, visando identificar a literatura que subsidiou pesquisas aplicadas bibliotecas e serviços de informação. O universo de estudo foi constituído de nove trabalhos publicados no periódico, e desses, foram analisadas as citações de quatro artigos, dentro do recorte proposto. As citações foram classificadas em quatro variáveis (tipologia, temporalidade, idioma e origem geográfica); destacam-se os documentos citados que abordavam temas relacionado ao assunto sobre “necessidades de informação”. Os resultados mostraram que as pesquisas publicadas no período se desenvolveram em torno dos usuários dos serviços de informação, acompanhando a mudança de paradigma ocorrida na área há pouco mais de 20 anos. A análise das citações demonstra uma alta utilização de literatura estrangeira, sobretudo de artigos publicados em periódicos americanos. Houve predomínio de citação a autores que abordaram as necessidades de informação com pesquisas aplicadas, através da realização de estudo de usuários de bibliotecas / serviços de informação especializados.
O modelo conceitual FRBR: discussões recentes e um olhar sobre as tarefas do usuário
Authors: Moreno Fernanda Passini
Published: July 2011

Este trabalho apresenta sucintamente o modelo Requisitos Funcionais para RegistrosBibliográficos (FRBR), para então apontar seus desdobramentos, isto é, os modelos quederivaram do original, alguns padrões que foram afetados após a sua publicação, trazendoalgumas discussões atuais sobre estas questões. Em seguida, detalham-se as tarefas do usuáriodo modelo FRBR e outras idéias encontradas na literatura, bem como as tarefas do modeloFunctional Requirements for Authority Data (FRAD). Concluindo, são apresentadoscomentários finais sobre o modelo FRBR e as tarefas do usuário.
Modelo de Avaliação de Risco do Capital Humano em Atividades de Inteligência Competitiva - MARCHAIC
Authors: Oliveira Paulo Henrique de
Published: July 2011

Apresenta uma breve revisão da literatura sobre a função de inteligência competitiva. Aponta as principais habilidades desejáveis aos profissionais de inteligência na atualidade, conforme estudos de Oliveira e Lacerda, Katz e Miller. Propõe um modelo para avaliar o risco do capital humano em atividades de inteligência competitiva (MARCHAIC) que foi desenvolvido em quatro etapas: pesquisa bibliográfica; definição da escala de mensuração; construção do modelo e teste em uma empresa fictícia do setor supermercadista. Os resultados demonstraram que o MARCHAIC pode ser uma importante ferramenta para os gestores na medida em que permite a identificação e gestão de pontos críticos relacionados com as habilidades dos profissionais envolvidos em funções de inteligência competitiva.
A 2.5 year's source apportionment study of black carbon from wood burning and fossil fuel combustion at urban and rural sites in Switzerland
Authors: Herich H. , Hueglin C. , Buchmann B.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. The contributions of fossil fuel (FF) and wood burning (WB) emissions to black carbon (BC) have been investigated in the recent past by analysis of multi-wavelength aethalometer data. This approach utilizes the stronger light absorption of WB aerosols in the near ultraviolet compared to the light absorption of aerosols from FF combustion. Here we present 2.5 years of seven-wavelength aethalometer data from one urban and two rural background sites in Switzerland measured from 2008–2010. The contribution of WB and FF to BC was directly determined from the aerosol absorption coefficients of FF and WB aerosols which were calculated by using confirmed Ångstrom exponents and aerosol light absorption cross-sections that were determined for all sites. Reasonable separation of total BC into contributions from FF and WB was achieved for all sites and seasons. The obtained WB contributions to BC are well correlated with measured concentrations of levoglucosan and potassium while FF contributions to BC correlate nicely with NOx. These findings support our approach and show that the applied source apportionment of BC is well applicable for long-term data sets. During winter, we found that BC from WB contributes on average 24–33 % to total BC at the considered measurement sites. This is a noticeable high fraction as the contribution of wood burning to the total final energy consumption is in Switzerland less than 4 %.
Electric field variability and classifications of Titan's magnetoplasma environment
Authors: Arridge C. S. , Achilleos N. , Guio P.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. The atmosphere of Saturn's largest moon Titan is driven by photochemistry, charged particle precipitation from Saturn's upstream magnetosphere, and presumably by the diffusion of the magnetospheric field into the outer ionosphere, amongst other processes. Ion pickup, controlled by the upstream convection electric field, plays a role in the loss of this atmosphere. The interaction of Titan with Saturn's magnetosphere results in the formation of a flow-induced magnetosphere. The upstream magnetoplasma environment of Titan is a complex and highly variable system and significant quasi-periodic modulations of the plasma in this region of Saturn's magnetosphere have been reported. In this paper we quantitatively investigate the effect of these quasi-periodic modulations on the convection electric field at Titan. We show that the electric field can be significantly perturbed away from the nominal radial orientation inferred from Voyager 1 observations, and demonstrate that upstream categorisation schemes must be used with care when undertaking quantitative studies of Titan's magnetospheric interaction, particularly where assumptions regarding the orientation of the convection electric field are made.
Investigation of the response time of the equatorial ionosphere in context of the equatorial electrojet and equatorial ionization anomaly
Authors: Jose L. , Ravindran S. , Vineeth C. , Pant T. K. , Alex S.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. Equatorial Electrojet (EEJ) and Equatorial Ionization Anomaly (EIA) are two large-scale processes in the equatorial/low latitude ionosphere, driven primarily by the eastward electric field during daytime. In the present paper we investigate the correlation between the Integrated EEJ strength (IEEJ) and the EIA parameters like the total electron content at the northern crest, location of crest in Magnetic latitude and strength of the EIA for the Indian sector. A good correlation has been observed between the IEEJ and EIA when a time delay is introduced between IEEJ and EIA parameters. This time delay is regarded as the response time of equatorial ionosphere in context of the evolution of EIA vis-à-vis EEJ. Further, a seasonal variation in the time delay has been observed, which is believed to be due to changes in thermospheric wind. Using the response time and the linear relationship obtained, the possibility of near-real time prediction of EIA parameters has been attempted and found that the prediction holds well during the geomagnetically quiet periods. The paper discusses these aspects in detail.
Above- and below-ground response to soil moisture change on an alpine wetland ecosystem in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, China
Authors: Wu G.-L. , Li W. , Zhao L.-P. , Shi Z.-H. , Shangguan Z.-P.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. Climate change is expected to affect plant communities worldwide. However, less is known about the consequences of global warming-induced decrease of soil moisture on alpine wetland ecosystem in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. To determine response of natural alpine wetland community to decrease of soil moisture, we did a gradient analysis of soil moisture by sequence space-series variation. We used sequence space-series variation of soil moisture to reflect potential time-series variation of soil moisture in alpine wetland community, by examining the effects of spatial heterogeneity of soil moisture on wetland community, as well as by determining how shifts in above- and below-ground properties of alpine wetland community. We found that vegetation aboveground biomass, cover and height all significantly increased with increase of soil moisture, but species richness was decreased. Soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, available nitrogen, total phosphorus and available phosphorus all significantly increased with increase of soil moisture, but soil pH value, total potassium and available potassium were significantly decreased. Meanwhile, species richness showed significantly positive correlations to aboveground biomass, covers and height. Aboveground biomass, vegetation covers and height were all significant positively related to soil organic carbon, total N, P, and available N, P, but negatively related to total K. But, species richness were significant negatively related to soil organic carbon, total N, P, and available N, P, but positively related to total K. Our observation indicates that decreasing of soil moisture may potentially negatively impact on the above- and below-ground properties in alpine wetland community.
Enhanced climate variability in the tropics: a 200 000 yr annual record of monsoon variability from Pangea's equator
Authors: Anderson R. Y.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. A continuous series of 209 000 evaporite varves from the equator of arid western Pangea (age = −255 ma), as a proxy for surface temperature, has a complete suite of Milankovitch cycles and harmonics as expected for a rectified reaction to precession-modulated insolation at the equator. Included are modes of precession (23.4 kyr, 18.2 kyr), semi-precession (11.7 kyr, 9.4 kyr), and harmonics at ~7 kyr and 5.4 kyr. An oscillation of ~100 kyr, with 35 % of total variance, originates as an amplitude modulation of precession cycles. An exceptionally strong 2.3 kyr quasi-bi-millennial oscillation (QBMO) appears to have had its own source of forcing, possibly solar, with its amplitude enhanced at Milankovitch frequencies. Seasonal information in varves traces the rectifying process to asymmetrical distribution of Pangea relative to the equator, and its effect on monsoonal circulation and heat flow near the equator during summer solstices in the hemispheres.
Extension of the Hapke bidirectional reflectance model to retrieve soil water content
Authors: Yang G.-J. , Zhao C.-J. , Huang W.-J. , Wang J.-H.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. Soil moisture links the hydrologic cycle and the energy budget of land surfaces by regulating latent heat fluxes. An accurate assessment of the spatial and temporal variation of soil moisture is important to the study of surface biogeophysical processes. Although remote sensing has proven to be one of the most powerful tools for obtaining land surface parameters, no effective methodology yet exists for in situ soil moisture measurement based on a Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) model, such as the Hapke model. To retrieve and analyze soil moisture, this study applied the soil water parametric (SWAP)-Hapke model, which introduced the equivalent water thickness of soil, to ground multi-angular and hyperspectral observations coupled with, Powell-Ant Colony Algorithm methods. The inverted soil moisture data resulting from our method coincided with in situ measurements (R2 = 0.867, RMSE = 0.813) based on three selected bands (672 nm, 866 nm, 2209 nm). It proved that the extended Hapke model can be used to estimate soil moisture with high accuracy based on the field multi-angle and multispectral remote sensing data.
First observational evidence for the CO2-driven origin of Stromboli's major explosions
Authors: Aiuppa A. , Burton M. , Allard P. , Caltabiano T. , Giudice G. , Gurrieri S. , Liuzzo M. , Salerno G.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. We report on the first detection of CO2 flux precursors of the till now unforecastable "major" explosions that intermittently occur at Stromboli volcano (Italy). An automated survey of the crater plume emissions in the period 2006–2010, during which 12 such explosions happened, demonstrated that these events are systematically preceded by a brief phase of increasing CO2/SO2 weight ratio (up to >40) and CO2 flux (>1300 t d−1) with respect to the time-averaged values of 3.7 and ~500 t d−1 typical for standard Stromboli's activity. These signals are best explained by the accumulation of CO2-rich gas at a discontinuity of the plumbing system (decreasing CO2 emission at the surface), followed by increasing gas leakage prior to the explosion. Our observations thus supports the recent model of Allard (2010) for a CO2-rich gas trigger of recurrent major explosions at Stromboli, and demonstrates the possibility to forecast these events in advance from geochemical precursors. These observations and conclusions have clear implications for monitoring strategies at other open-vent basaltic volcanoes worldwide.
Clinical presentation and surgical outcomes in primary myopic macular hole retinal detachment
Authors: Kumar Atul , Tinwala Sana , Gogia Varun , Sinha Subijay
Published: July 2011

Purpose

To describe the clinical presentation of primary macular hole retinal detachment (MHRD) secondary to high myopia and to evaluate the surgical outcomes.

Methods

Nine eyes of 9 patients with primary myopic MHRD (axial length ≥26.5 mm) were enrolled. A standardized surgical protocol was performed using vitrectomy with preservative-free triamcinolone acetonide–assisted internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and silicone oil tamponade and were followed for at least 6 months from the first surgery.

Results

There were 6 women and 3 men with a median age of 52 years. Six (66.6%) patients presented with inferior bullous configuration and 3 had subtotal retinal detachment. The mean preoperative refractive error (spherical equivalent) and mean axial length was 12±3.553 D (range 8.50-19.50) and 28.13±1.65 mm (range 26.50-31.50), respectively. The patients were followed up for a period of at least 6 months. The retina was attached and macular hole closed in all the eyes. There was significant visual acuity improvement from mean preoperative visual acuity of logMAR 1.85±0.11 (range 1.76-1.93) to postoperative visual acuity of logMAR 0.95±0.14 (range 0.84-1.06) (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Retinal detachment in highly myopic eyes can often be secondary to a macular hole with predominance of inferior bullous configuration and primary vitrectomy with ILM peeling with silicone oil tamponade results in good anatomic and functional outcomes.
A Seven-Zone Rating System for Assessing Bone Mineral Density after Hip Resurfacing Using Implants with Metaphyseal Femoral Stems
Authors: Naal Florian D. , Zuercher Patrick , Munzinger Urs , Hersche Otmar , Leunig Michael
Published: July 2011

The seven Gruen zones are widely accepted for the assessment of periprosthestic bone mineral density (BMD) following traditional total hip arthroplasty, but no comparable rating system exists for hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA).

We describe a seven-zone rating system around the femoral component of a typical HRA implant with a short metaphyseal stem and its intra- and inter-observer reliability.

A cohort of 23 selected male patients underwent bone mineral density (BMD) measurements by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) two years after HRA. After development of the new seven-zone rating system, reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). The coefficient of variation was also determined. The new rating-system proved high reliability with ICCs for the intra-and inter-observer reliability ranging from 0.92 to 1.0. The coefficient of variation ranged from 1.4% to 3.3%. Mean BMD values were highest in the medial zones 5 to 7 and lowest in the lateral zones 1 to 3 and below the stem tip, corresponding to zone 4. We observed that BMD after HRA can be measured reliably in seven zones around the femoral component. The use of this easily applicable method in future investigations might enhance the comparability of study results. However, the rating system described may have limitations in HRA implants with very short metaphyseal femoral stems.
The Association of Serenoa Repens, Lycopene and Selenium is Superior to Serenoa Repens Alone in Reducing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Squadrito Francesco , Morgia Giuseppe
Published: July 2011

Serenoa repens (SeR) is frequently associated with other natural compounds, such as lycopene (Ly), a carotenoid, and selenium (Se), an essential trace element, to increase its therapeutic activity in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The LY-Se-SeR association has a greater and stronger anti-inflammatory activity than SeR alone. In addition, the LY-Se-SeR combination is more effective than SeR alone in reducing prostate weight and hyperplasia, augmenting apoptosis, and reducing cell proliferation and growth factor expression. This experimental evidence suggests that Ly-Se-SeR association is superior to SeR alone in reducing benign prostate growth.
Did the Staging of Renal Neoplasm Improve with Time? Retrospective Study on a Cohort of 2000 Patients
Authors: Arrighi Nicola , Antonelli Alessandro , Zanotelli Tiziano , Danilo Danilo , Cunico Sergio Cosciani , Simeone Claudio
Published: July 2011

Objectives

During the last 3 decades ultrasonographic and cross-sectional imaging techniques have been widely adopted in the pre-operative staging of renal masses with a progressive technological refinement. The aim of this study is to evaluate if, according to such a change, the accuracy of pre-operative staging is getting better.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis of 1935 patients, surgically treated at our Institute since 1983 for a renal neoplasm, has been carried out. Dividing the experience in 2 periods, before and after the year 2000, the diagnostic tools adopted during pre-operative staging and their accuracy have been evaluated by a comparison with the post-operative data (accuracy=true positive+true negative/total number of cases), also taking into account each single aspect of staging (dimension of tumor, local extension, venous invasion, lymphnodal and distant metastasis).

Results and discussion

994 patients have been treated before 2000, and 941 afterwards. During time, a progressive reduction in the use of urography and, on the other hand, a diffusion of chest CT have been observed, whereas NMR maintained a similar and limited field of application in both periods. During time, the overall accuracy of staging has not significantly improved (69.5% vs 72.3%, p=0.18), but a slightly better staging of distant (93.9% vs 96.7%, p=0.01) and lymphnodal metastasis (90.9% vs 94.8%, p=0.01) can be found.

Conclusions

The pre-operative staging of renal cancer has not really improved during the last 3 decades, in spite of the availability of more precise radiological tools. Anyway, due to the diffusion of CT scan, a slightly better definition of lymphnodal and distant metastasis can be observed. This fact could play a role in indicating a targeted therapy for advanced disease, especially in the light of a neoadjuvant setting.
Ferroelectric and Magnetic Properties of Hot-Pressed BiFeO3-PVDF Composite Films
Authors: Reddy Annapu V. , Sekhar K. C. , Dabra Navneet , Nautiyal A. , Hundal Jasbir S. , Pathak N. P. , Nath R.
Published: July 2011

The ferroelectric and magnetic properties of hot-pressed BiFeO3- (BFO) polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) composite films have been studied. The BiFeO3 (BFO) ceramics have been synthesized by a rapid liquid phase sintering technique. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies revealed that the impure phase observed in pure BFO ceramics was significantly reduced in the composite films. The presence of both ferroelectric and magnetic hysteresis loops confirms the multiferroic nature of the composite films at room temperature. A well-saturated ferroelectric hysteresis loop with a remanent polarization (Pr)∼4.8 μC-cm-2 and coercive field (Ec)∼1.55 kV/cm has been observed in composite thin films at room temperature. The magnetic hysteresis loops were traced at room temperature with SQUID. The remanent magnetization (Mr)∼3.0×10−3 emu/gm and coercive field (Hc)∼0.99 kOe was observed in the composite film. The magnetic polarization of the composite films has found to be enhanced as compared to pure BFO and correlated to reduction in BFO impure peak intensity.
About Zero Torsion Linear Maps on Lie Algebras
Authors: Magnin Louis
Published: July 2011

We prove that any zero torsion linear map on a nonsolvable real Lie algebra is an extension of some CR-structure. We then study the cases of (2, ) and the 3-dimensional Heisenberg Lie algebra . In both cases, we compute up to equivalence all zero torsion linear maps on , and deduce an explicit description of the equivalence classes of integrable complex structures on .
Minimal Surfaces with Only Horizontal Symmetries
Authors: da Silva Márcio Fabiano , Lobos Guillermo Antonio , Ramos Batista Valério
Published: July 2011

The Schwarz reflection principle states that a minimal surface S in ℝ3 is invariant under reflections in the plane of its principal geodesics and also invariant under 180°-rotations about its straight lines. We find new examples of embedded triply periodic minimal surfaces for which such symmetries are all of horizontal type.
Highly Conductive Organosilica Hybrid Films Prepared from a Liquid‐Crystal Perylene Bisimide Precursor
Authors: Mizoshita Norihiro , Tani Takao , Inagaki Shinji
Published: July 2011

Significant anisotropic electrical conduction in organosilica films is achieved by long‐range orientation of electroactive perylene bisimide (PBI) moieties in the silica scaffold. A new PBI‐based organosilane precursor is designed with lyotropic liquid‐crystalline properties. The PBI precursor with triethoxysilylphenyl groups exhibits a hexagonal columnar phase in the presence of organic solvents. The lyotropic liquid‐crystalline behavior of the precursor enables the preparation of dip‐coated films consisting of uniaxially aligned columnar aggregates of the PBI precursor on the centimeter scale. The oriented structure is successfully fixed by in situ polycondensation, which yields insoluble, thermally stable PBI–silica hybrid films. The oriented organosilica films doped with hydrazine exhibit high electrical conductivities on the order of 10−2 S cm−1, which are at the highest level for organosilica materials, and are comparable to those of all‐organic PBI assemblies. Definite anisotropy of conductivities is also found for these films. The present results suggest that the induction of significant electrical properties in organic molecular assemblies is compatible with the structural stabilization by inorganic–organic hybridization.
Spinel‐Layered Core‐Shell Cathode Materials for Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Cho Yonghyun , Lee Sanghan , Lee Yongseok , Hong Taeeun , Cho Jaephil
Published: July 2011

In an attempt to overcome the problems associated with LiNiO2, the solid solution series of lithium nickel‐metal oxides, Li[Ni1–xMx]O2 (with M = Co, Mn, Al, Ti, Mg, etc.), have been investigated as favorable cathode materials for high‐energy and high‐power lithium‐ion batteries. However, along with the improvement in the electrochemical properties in Ni‐based cathode materials, the thermal stability has been a great concern, and thus violent reaction of the cathode with the electrolyte needs to be avoided. Here, we report a heterostructured Li[Ni0.54Co0.12Mn0.34]O2 cathode material which possesses both high energy and safety. The core of the particle is Li[Ni0.54Co0.12Mn0.34]O2 with a layered phase (R3‐m) and the shell, with a thickness of < 0.5 μm, is a highly stable Li1+x[CoNixMn2–x]2O4 spinel phase (Fd‐3m). The material demonstrates reversible capacity of 200 mAhg‐1 and retains 95% capacity retention under the most severe test condition of 60 °C. In addition, the amount of oxygen evolution from the lattice in the cathode with two heterostructures is reduced by 70%, compared to the reference sample. All these results suggest that the bulk Li[Ni0.54Co0.12Mn0.34]O2 consisting of two heterostructures satisfy the requirements for hybrid electric vehicles, power tools, and mobile electronics.
Iron overload and stem cell transplant—and the beat goes on
Authors: Tefferi Ayalew
Published: July 2011

No abtract.
Cancer‐testis antigen expression and its epigenetic modulation in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Atanackovic Djordje , Luetkens Tim , Kloth Benjamin , Fuchs Gregor , Cao Yanran , Hildebrandt York , Meyer Sabrina , Bartels Katrin , Reinhard Henrike , Lajmi Nesrine , Hegewisch‐Becker Susanna , Schilling Georgia , Platzbecker Uwe , Kobbe Guido , Schroeder Thomas , Bokemeyer Carsten , Kröger Nicolaus
Published: July 2011

Cancer‐testis antigens (CTA) represent attractive targets for tumor immunotherapy. However, a broad picture of CTA expression in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is missing. CTA expression was analyzed in normal bone marrow (BM) as well as in AML cell lines before and after treatment with demethylating agents and/or histone acetylase inhibitors. Presence of selected CTA with a strictly tumor‐restricted expression was then determined in samples of patients with AML before and after demethylating therapy. Screening AML cell lines for the expression of 20 CTA, we identified six genes (MAGE‐A3, PRAME, ROPN1, SCP‐1, SLLP1, and SPO11) with an AML‐restricted expression. Analyzing the expression of these CTA in blast‐containing samples from AML patients (N = 64), we found all samples to be negative for MAGE‐A3 and SPO11 while a minority of patients expressed ROPN1 (1.6%), SCP‐1 (3.1%), or SLLP1 (9.4%). The only CTA expressed in substantial proportion of patients (53.1%) was PRAME. Following demethylating treatment with 5′‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine, we observed an increased or de novo expression of CTA, in particular of SSX‐2, in AML cell lines. In AML patients, we detected increased expression of PRAME and induction of SSX‐2 after demethylating therapy with 5‐azacytidine. With the exception of PRAME, CTA are mostly absent from AML blasts. However, demethylating treatment induces strong expression of CTA, particularly of SSX‐2, in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, we propose that CTA‐specific immunotherapy for AML should preferentially target PRAME and/or should be combined with the application of demethylating agents opening the perspective for alternative targets like CTA SSX‐2. Am. J. Hematol., 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nitridosilicates and Oxonitridosilicates: From Ceramic Materials to Structural and Functional Diversity
Authors: Zeuner Martin , Pagano Sandro , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: July 2011

Silicates are one of the most important classes of compounds on this planet, and more than 1000 silicates have been identified in the mineral kingdom. Additionally, several hundreds of artificial silicates have been synthesized. The substitution of oxygen by nitrogen leads to the structurally diverse and manifold class of nitridosilicates. Silicon nitride, one of the most important non‐oxidic ceramic materials, is the binary parent compound of nitridosilicates, and it symbolizes the inherent material properties of these refractory compounds. However, prior to the last decades, a broad systematic investigation of nitridosilicates had not been accomplished. In the meantime, these and related compounds have reached a remarkable level of industrial application. This review illustrates recent progress in synthesis and structure–property relationships and also applications of nitridosilicates, oxonitridosilicates, and related SiAlONs.