bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BBS News Vol.4(1)
Authors: Editor The
Published: March 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bioethics.v4i1.14267 Bangladesh Journal of Bioethics 2013; 4(1):35
Overcoming Challenges and Opening New Opportunities in Glycoproteomics
Authors: Yen Ten-Yang , Dutta Sucharita , Litsakos-Cheung Christina , Corona Alejandro , Timpe Leslie , Macher Bruce
Published: March 2013

Glycoproteomics has emerged as a prime area of interest within the field of proteomics because glycoproteins have been shown to function as biomarkers for disease and as promising therapeutic targets. A significant challenge in the study of glycoproteins is the fact that they are expressed in relatively low abundance in cells. In response, various enrichment methods have been developed to improve the detection of glycoproteins. One such method involves their capture via oxidation of their glycan chains and covalent attachment with hydrazide resins which, when catalyzed by PNGase F, release N-linked glycans and convert the glycosite Asn to Asp; this conversion is identifiable with LC/ESI-MS/MS as a corresponding increase of 0.984 Da in molecular weight. The present study builds on this body of work, providing evidence of three additional strategies that improve glycoprotein identification: (1) use of a high resolution mass spectrometer—the Q Exactive MS—which delivers 2–3 times more glycoprotein identifications than a low resolution MS; (2) optimization of instrument settings and database search parameters to reduce misidentification of N-linked glycopeptides to ~1 percent; and (3) labeling glycopeptides with 18O during PNGase F treatment to locate N-linked glycosites within peptides containing multiple N-linked sequons.
A Drosophila Model to Image Phagosome Maturation
Authors: Shandala Tetyana , Lim Chiaoxin , Sorvina Alexandra , Brooks Douglas
Published: March 2013

Phagocytosis involves the internalization of extracellular material by invagination of the plasma membrane to form intracellular vesicles called phagosomes, which have functions that include pathogen degradation. The degradative properties of phagosomes are thought to be conferred by sequential fusion with endosomes and lysosomes; however, this maturation process has not been studied in vivo. We employed Drosophila hemocytes, which are similar to mammalian professional macrophages, to establish a model of phagosome maturation. Adult Drosophila females, carrying transgenic Rab7-GFP endosome and Lamp1-GFP lysosome markers, were injected with E. coli DH5α and the hemocytes were collected at 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes after infection. In wild-type females, E. coli were detected within enlarged Rab7-GFP positive phagosomes at 15 to 45 minutes after infection; and were also observed in enlarged Lamp1-GFP positive phagolysosomes at 45 minutes. Two-photon imaging of hemocytes in vivo confirmed this vesicle morphology, including enlargement of Rab7-GFP and Lamp1-GFP structures that often appeared to protrude from hemocytes. The interaction of endosomes and lysosomes with E. coli phagosomes observed in Drosophila hemocytes was consistent with that previously described for phagosome maturation in human ex vivo macrophages. We also tested our model as a tool for genetic analysis using 14-3-3e mutants, and demonstrated altered phagosome maturation with delayed E. coli internalization, trafficking and/or degradation. These findings demonstrate that Drosophila hemocytes provide an appropriate, genetically amenable, model for analyzing phagosome maturation ex vivo and in vivo.
Depression in Employees in Privately Owned Enterprises in China: Is It Related to Work Environment and Work Ability?
Authors: Sun Jing , Buys Nicholas , Wang Xinchao
Published: March 2013

This study examines the individual and workplace factors related to depression and stress in a large privately owned enterprise in China. The cross-sectional study design involved 13 privately owned retail enterprises in China. A self-report survey was administered to 4,847 employees aged 18–54 recruited through the management boards of the 13 enterprises. A chi-square test was used to compare differences between the depressed and non-depressed groups on a number of demographic variables and chronic diseases. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess depression in relation to individual factors (work ability and resilience) and organisational environmental factors (workplace ethos and culture, psychosocial environment and health promotion policies and activities). Significant relationships were found between employee depression all personal factors, and one organisational environmental factor. Personal factors include poor work ability and low resilience, while workplace factors include workplace ethos and culture. The primary organisational environmental factor was a low level of enterprise ethos and culture.
Nuclear Lipid Microdomain as Place of Interaction between Sphingomyelin and DNA during Liver Regeneration
Authors: Albi Elisabetta , Lazzarini Andrea , Lazzarini Remo , Floridi Alessandro , Damaskopoulou Eleni , Curcio Francesco , Cataldi Samuela
Published: March 2013

Nuclear sphingomyelin is a key molecule for cell proliferation. This molecule is organized with cholesterol and proteins to form specific lipid microdomains bound to the inner nuclear membrane where RNA is synthesized. Here, we have reported the ability of the sphingomyelin present in the nuclear microdomain to bind DNA and regulate its synthesis, and to highlight its role in cell proliferation induced by partial hepatectomy. During G1/S transition of the cell cycle, sphingomyelin and DNA content is very high and it is strongly reduced after exogenous sphingomyelinase treatment. During the S-phase of the cell cycle, the stimulation of sphingomyelinase and inhibition of sphingomyelin–synthase are accompanied by the DNA synthesis start. To assess the specificity of the results, experiments were repeated with trifluoperazine, a drug known to affect the synthesis of lipids and DNA and to stimulate sphingomyelinase activity. The activity of sphingomyelinase is stimulated in the first hour after hepatectomy and sphingomyelin–DNA synthesis is strongly attenuated. It may be hypothesized that the nuclear microdomain represents a specific area of the inner nuclear membrane that acts as an active site of chromatin anchorage thanks to the stabilizing action of sphingomyelin. Thus, sphingomyelin metabolism in nuclear lipid microdomains is suggested to regulate cell proliferation.
Mechanisms Involved in the Pro-Apoptotic Effect of Melatonin in Cancer Cells
Authors: Rodriguez Carmen , Martín Vanesa , Herrera Federico , García-Santos Guillermo , Rodriguez-Blanco Jezabel , Casado-Zapico Sara , Sánchez-Sánchez Ana , Suárez Santos , Puente-Moncada Noelia , Anítua María , Antolín Isaac
Published: March 2013

It is well established that melatonin exerts antitumoral effects in many cancer types, mostly decreasing cell proliferation at low concentrations. On the other hand, induction of apoptosis by melatonin has been described in the last few years in some particular cancer types. The cytotoxic effect occurs after its administration at high concentrations, and the molecular pathways involved have been only partially determined. Moreover, a synergistic effect has been found in several cancer types when it is administered in combination with chemotherapeutic agents. In the present review, we will summarize published work on the pro-apoptotic effect of melatonin in cancer cells and the reported mechanisms involved in such action. We will also construct a hypothesis on how different cell signaling pathways may relate each other on account for such effect.
Induction of Neuronal Differentiation of Rat Muscle-Derived Stem Cells in Vitro Using Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor and Ethosuximide
Authors: Kang Mi , Kwon Jin , Kim Moon
Published: March 2013

Several studies have demonstrated that basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) can induce neural differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. In this study, we investigated the neural differentiation of muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) following treatment with bFGF and ethosuximide, a small molecule used as an anticonvulsant in humans. Stem cells isolated from rat skeletal muscle (rMDSCs) were pre-induced by culturing with 25 ng/mL bFGF for 24 h and then were transferred to a medium supplemented with or without 4 mM ethosuximide. Neuronal differentiation was assessed by immunocytochemical and western blotting analyses of marker expression. Immunocytochemistry of rMDSCs treated with bFGF and ethosuximide identified abundant cells expressing neuronal markers (TuJ1, neuron-specific class III β-tubulin; NeuN, neuronal nuclear antigen; and NF-MH; neurofilament M and H). Olig2 (oligodendrocyte transcription factor 2)-positive cells were also observed, indicating the presence of oligodendrocyte lineage cells. These findings were substantiated by western blotting analysis of marker proteins. In particular, the expression of NeuN and TuJ1 was significantly higher in rMDSCs treated with ethosuximide and bFGF than in cells stimulated with bFGF alone (NeuN, p < 0.05 and TuJ1, p < 0.001). Expression of the astrocyte marker GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein) was not detected in this study. Collectively, the results showed that treatment with bFGF and ethosuximide induced effective transdifferentiation of rMDSCs into cells with a neural-like phenotype. Notably, rMDSCs treated with a combination of bFGF plus ethosuximide showed enhanced differentiation compared with cells treated with bFGF alone, implying that ethosuximide may stimulate neuronal differentiation.
Regulation of Ovarian Cancer Stem Cells or Tumor-Initiating Cells
Authors: Kwon Mi , Shin Young
Published: March 2013

Cancer stem cells or tumor-initiating cells (CSC/TICs), which can undergo self-renewal and differentiation, are thought to play critical roles in tumorigenesis, therapy resistance, tumor recurrence and metastasis. Tumor recurrence and chemoresistance are major causes of poor survival rates of ovarian cancer patients, which may be due in part to the existence of CSC/TICs. Therefore, elucidating the molecular mechanisms responsible for the ovarian CSC/TICs is required to develop a cure for this malignancy. Recent studies have indicated that the properties of CSC/TICs can be regulated by microRNAs, genes and signaling pathways which also function in normal stem cells. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that the tumor microenvironments surrounding CSC/TICs are crucial for the maintenance of these cells. Similarly, efforts are now being made to unravel the mechanism involved in the regulation of ovarian CSC/TICs, although much work is still needed. This review considers recent advances in identifying the genes and pathways involved in the regulation of ovarian CSC/TICs. Furthermore, current approaches targeting ovarian CSC/TICs are described. Targeting both CSC/TICs and bulk tumor cells is suggested as a more effective approach to eliminating ovarian tumors. Better understanding of the regulation of ovarian CSC/TICs might facilitate the development of improved therapeutic strategies for recurrent ovarian cancer.
Cytokines and the Skin Barrier
Authors: Hänel Kai , Cornelissen Christian , Lüscher Bernhard , Baron Jens
Published: March 2013

The skin is the largest organ of the human body and builds a barrier to protect us from the harmful environment and also from unregulated loss of water. Keratinocytes form the skin barrier by undergoing a highly complex differentiation process that involves changing their morphology and structural integrity, a process referred to as cornification. Alterations in the epidermal cornification process affect the formation of the skin barrier. Typically, this results in a disturbed barrier, which allows the entry of substances into the skin that are immunologically reactive. This contributes to and promotes inflammatory processes in the skin but also affects other organs. In many common skin diseases, including atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, a defect in the formation of the skin barrier is observed. In these diseases the cytokine composition within the skin is different compared to normal human skin. This is the result of resident skin cells that produce cytokines, but also because additional immune cells are recruited. Many of the cytokines found in defective skin are able to influence various processes of differentiation and cornification. Here we summarize the current knowledge on cytokines and their functions in healthy skin and their contributions to inflammatory skin diseases.
Synthesis of 1-isopropyl-3-acyl-5-methyl-benzimidazolone Derivatives and Their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Xu Nan , Yang Chunnan , Gan Xinqi , Wei Shaopeng , Ji Zhiqin
Published: March 2013

A series of N-acylated analogues of 1-isopropyl-3-acyl-5-methyl-benzimidazolone were synthesized. Bioassay results indicated that analogues 5-07 and 5-19 exhibited the most potency against Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Analogues 5-02, 5-07, 5-12, 5-15, 5-19, 5-20 and 5-25 could effectively inhibit the spore germination of Botrytis cinerea. The relationship between structure and their antimicrobial activity (SAR) has also been discussed according to aliphatic acids and aromatic acids derivatives, respectively. This implied that the N-acylated derivatives of 5-methyl-benzimidazolone might be potential antimicrobial agents.
Characterization of an Exopolymeric Flocculant Produced by a Brachybacterium sp.
Authors: Nwodo Uchechukwu , Agunbiade Mayowa , Green Ezekiel , Nwamadi Mutshinyalo , Rumbold Karl , Okoh Anthony
Published: March 2013

We evaluated the bioflocculant production potential of an Actinobacteria, which was isolated from a freshwater environment in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. 16S rDNA nucleotide sequencing analyses revealed that the actinobacteria belongs to the Brachybacterium genus, and the sequences were deposited in the GenBank as Brachybacterium sp. UFH, with accession number HQ537131. Optimum fermentation conditions for bioflocculant production by the bacteria include an initial medium pH of 7.2, incubation temperature of 30 °C, agitation speed of 160 rpm and an inoculum size of 2% (vol/vol) of cell density 3.0 × 108 CFU/mL. The carbon, nitrogen and cation sources for optimum bioflocculant production were maltose (83% flocculating activity), urea (91.17% flocculating activity) and MgCl2 (91.16% flocculating activity). Optimum bioflocculant production coincided with the logarithmic growth phase of the bacteria, and chemical analyses of the bioflocculant showed 39.4% carbohydrate and 43.7% protein (wt/wt). The mass ratio of neutral sugar, amino sugar and uronic acids was 1.3:0.7:2.2. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated the presence of carboxyl, hydroxyl and amino groups, amongst others, typical for heteropolysaccharide and glycosaminoglycan polysaccharides. Bioflocculant pyrolysis showed thermal stability at over 600 °C, while scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging revealed a maze-like structure of interlaced flakes. Its high flocculation activity suggests its suitability for industrial applicability.
An Ultrasensitive Electrochemical Immunosensor for HIV p24 Based on Fe3O4@SiO2 Nanomagnetic Probes and Nanogold Colloid-Labeled Enzyme–Antibody Copolymer as Signal Tag
Authors: Gan Ning , Du Xiaowen , Cao Yuting , Hu Futao , Li Tianhua , Jiang Qianli
Published: March 2013

An ultrasensitive portable electrochemical immunosensor for human immunodeficiency virus p24 (HIV p24) antigen detection has been developed, whereby the detection sensitivity was 1000 times higher than that of the ELISA method. Firstly, a novel HRP enzyme–antibody copolymer (EV-p24 Ab2) was synthesized through an EnVision regent (EV, a dextrin amine skeleton anchoring more than 100 molecules of HRP and 15 molecules of anti IgG), then incubated in the secondary antibody of p24. Secondly, the copolymer was immobilized on the gold nanocolloids (AuNPs) to fabricate a novel signal tag (AuNPs/EV-p24 Ab2). Subsequently, a sandwich-type immunoreaction would take place between the capture probe (silicon dioxide-coated magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (MNPs) labeled with the primary p24 antibody (MNPs-p24 Ab1)), p24 (different concentrations) and the signal tag [AuNPs/EV-p24 Ab2)] to form the immunocomplex. Finally, the immunocomplex was absorbed on the surface of screen printed carbon electrode (SPCE) by a magnet and immersed in the o-hydroxyl phenol (HQ) and H2O2. The large amounts of HRP on the signal tag can catalyze the oxidation of HQ by H2O2, which can induce an amplified reductive current. Moreover, the capture probe could improve the accumulation ability of p24 and facilitate its separation from the substrate through the magnet. Under optimal conditions, the proposed immunoassay exhibited good sensitivity to p24 within a certain concentration range from 0.001 to 10.00 ng/mL, with a detection limit of 0.5 pg/mL (S/N = 3). The proposed method can be used for real-time and early detection of HIV-infected people.
Fabrication of Cellulose Film with Enhanced Mechanical Properties in Ionic Liquid 1-Allyl-3-methylimidaxolium Chloride (AmimCl)
Authors: Pang Jinhui , Liu Xin , Zhang Xueming , Wu Yuying , Sun Runcang
Published: March 2013

More and more attention has been paid to environmentally friendly bio-based renewable materials as the substitution of fossil-based materials, due to the increasing environmental concerns. In this study, regenerated cellulose films with enhanced mechanical property were prepared via incorporating different plasticizers using ionic liquid 1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (AmimCl) as the solvent. The characteristics of the cellulose films were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), thermal analysis (TG), X-ray diffraction (XRD), 13C Solid-state cross-polarization/magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (CP/MAS NMR) and tensile testing. The results showed that the cellulose films exhibited a homogeneous and smooth surface structure. It was noted that the thermal stability of the regenerated cellulose film plasticized with glycerol was increased compared with other regenerated cellulose films. Furthermore, the incorporation of plasticizers dramatically strengthened the tensile strength and improved the hydrophobicity of cellulose films, as compared to the control sample. Therefore, these notable results exhibited the potential utilization in producing environmentally friendly cellulose films with high performance properties.
Synthesis of Structured Lipids by Lipase-Catalyzed Interesterification of Triacetin with Camellia Oil Methyl Esters and Preliminary Evaluation of their Plasma Lipid-Lowering Effect in Mice
Authors: Cao Yu , Qi Suijian , Zhang Yang , Wang Xiaoning , Yang Bo , Wang Yonghua
Published: March 2013

Structured lipids (SLCTs triacylglycerols with short- and long-chain acyl residues) were synthesized by interesterification of triacetin and fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) from camellia oil, followed by molecular distillation for purification. Different commercial immobilized lipases (Lipozyme RM IM and Novozyme 435), the substrate molar ratios of FAMEs to triacetin, the reaction temperatures and the lipase amounts were studied for their efficiency in producing SLCTs. Results showed that Novozyme 435 was more suitable for this reaction system. Moreover, the optimal reaction conditions for the highest conversion of FAMEs and the highest LLS-TAGs (triacylglycerols with one short- and two long-chain acyl residues) yields were achieved at a molar ratio of FAMEs to triacetin of 3:1, 50 °C of reaction temperature and a lipase amount of 4% (w/v). Scale-up was conducted based on the optimized reaction conditions. Results showed that after 24 h of reaction , the conversion rate of FAMEs was 82.4% and the rate of disubstituted triacetin was 52.4 mol%. The final product yield rate was 94.6%. The effects of the synthesized SLCTs on the plasma lipid level of fasting mice were also studied. The SLCTs could effectively lessen the total triacylglycerol levels in plasma compared to the triacylglycerol group in fasting NIH mice. It suggested that this type of structured lipid might be beneficial for human health, especially for the prevention of obesity.
Cholinesterase Enzymes Inhibitors from the Leaves of Rauvolfia Reflexa and Their Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Fadaeinasab Mehran , Hadi A. , Kia Yalda , Basiri Alireza , Murugaiyah Vikneswaran
Published: March 2013

Plants of the Apocynaceae family have been traditionally used in the treatment of age-related brain disorders. Rauvolfia reflexa, a member of the family, has been used as an antidote for poisons and to treat malaria. The dichloromethane, ethanol and methanol extracts from the leaves of Rauvolfia reflexa showed potential acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activities, with IC50 values in the 8.49 to 52.23 g/mL range. Further cholinesterase inhibitory-guided isolation of these extracts afforded four bioactive compounds, namely: (E)-3-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)acrylic acid (1), (E)-methyl 3-(4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl) acrylate (2), 17-methoxycarbonyl-14-heptadecaenyl-4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamate (3) and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-oxo-β-carboline (4). The isolated compounds showed moderate cholinesterase inhibitory activity compared to the reference standard, physostigmine. Compounds 1 and 2 showed the highest inhibitory activity against AChE (IC50 = 60.17 µM) and BChE (IC50 = 61.72 µM), respectively. Despite having similar molecular weight, compounds 1 and 2 were structurally different according to their chemical substitution patterns, leading to their different enzyme inhibition selectivity. Compound 2 was more selective against BChE, whereas compound 1 was a selective inhibitor of AChE. Molecular docking revealed that both compounds 1 and 2 were inserted, but not deeply into the active site of the cholinesterase enzymes.
Snow Cover Maps from MODIS Images at 250 m Resolution, Part 2: Validation
Authors: Notarnicola Claudia , Duguay Martial , Moelg Nico , Schellenberger Thomas , Tetzlaff Anke , Monsorno Roberto , Costa Armin , Steurer Christian , Zebisch Marc
Published: March 2013

The performance of a new algorithm for binary snow cover monitoring based on Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite images at 250 m resolution is validated using snow cover maps (SCA) based on Landsat 7 ETM+ images and in situ snow depth measurements from ground stations in selected test sites in Central Europe. The advantages of the proposed algorithm are the improved ground resolution of 250 m and the near real-time availability with respect to the 500 m standard National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) MODIS snow products (MOD10 and MYD10). It allows a more accurate snow cover monitoring at a local scale, especially in mountainous areas characterized by large landscape heterogeneity. The near real-time delivery makes the product valuable as input for hydrological models, e.g., for flood forecast. A comparison to sixteen snow cover maps derived from Landsat ETM/ETM+ showed an overall accuracy of 88.1%, which increases to 93.6% in areas outside of forests. A comparison of the SCA derived from the proposed algorithm with standard MODIS products, MYD10 and MOD10, indicates an agreement of around 85.4% with major discrepancies in forested areas. The validation of MODIS snow cover maps with 148 in situ snow depth measurements shows an accuracy ranging from 94% to around 82%, where the lowest accuracies is found in very rugged terrain restricted to in situ stations along north facing slopes, which lie in shadow in winter during the early morning acquisition.
DNA-Based Sensor for Real-Time Measurement of the Enzymatic Activity of Human Topoisomerase I
Authors: Marcussen Lærke , Jepsen Morten , Kristoffersen Emil , Franch Oskar , Proszek Joanna , Ho Yi-Ping , Stougaard Magnus , Knudsen Birgitta
Published: March 2013

Sensors capable of quantitative real-time measurements may present the easiest and most accurate way to study enzyme activities. Here we present a novel DNA-based sensor for specific and quantitative real-time measurement of the enzymatic activity of the essential human enzyme, topoisomerase I. The basic design of the sensor relies on two DNA strands that hybridize to form a hairpin structure with a fluorophore-quencher pair. The quencher moiety is released from the sensor upon reaction with human topoisomerase I thus enabling real-time optical measurement of enzymatic activity. The sensor is specific for topoisomerase I even in raw cell extracts and presents a simple mean of following enzyme kinetics using standard laboratory equipment such as a qPCR machine or fluorimeter. Human topoisomerase I is a well-known target for the clinically used anti-cancer drugs of the camptothecin family. The cytotoxic effect of camptothecins correlates directly with the intracellular topoisomerase I activity. We therefore envision that the presented sensor may find use for the prediction of cellular drug response. Moreover, inhibition of topoisomerase I by camptothecin is readily detectable using the presented DNA sensor, suggesting a potential application of the sensor for first line screening for potential topoisomerase I targeting anti-cancer drugs.
Frame Synchronization of High-Speed Vision Sensors with Respect to Temporally Encoded Illumination in Highly Dynamic Environments
Authors: Hou Lei , Kagami Shingo , Hashimoto Koichi
Published: March 2013

The authors propose a Manchester Encoding inspired illumination modulation strategy to properly index the temporally-aligned vision frames, which are successfully synchronized by the LED reference signal. Based on signal normalization, Manchester Encoded reference signals carry temporal information owing to serial communication and thus can timestamp the output vision frame. Both simulated and experimental results show satisfactory robustness to various disturbances, such as dynamic targets, fluctuant optical intensity, and unfixed cameras, etc. The 1,000 Hz vision sensor is locked to 500 Hz temporally modulated LED illumination with only 24 μs jitters. This result is believed to be applicable to low-cost wireless vision sensor network.
Household Solar Photovoltaics: Supplier of Marginal Abatement, or Primary Source of Low-Emission Power?
Authors: Palmer Graham
Published: March 2013

With declining system costs and assuming a short energy payback period, photovoltaics (PV) should, at face value, be able to make a meaningful contribution to reducing the emission intensity of Australia’s electricity system. However, solar is an intermittent power source and households remain completely dependent on a “less than green” electricity grid for reliable electricity. Further, much of the energy impact of PV occurs outside of the conventional boundaries of PV life-cycle analyses (LCA). This paper examines these competing observations and explores the broader impacts of a high penetration of household PV using Melbourne, Victoria as a reference. It concludes that in a grid dominated by unsequestered coal and gas, PV provides a legitimate source of emission abatement at high, but declining costs, with the potential for network and peak demand support. It may be technically possible to integrate a high penetration of PV, but the economic and energy cost of accommodating high-penetration PV erodes much of the benefits. Future developments in PV, storage, and integration technologies may allow PV to take on a greater long term role, but in the time horizon usually discussed in climate policy, a large-scale expansion of household PV may hinder rather than assist deep cuts to the emission intensity of Australia’s electricity system.
Inorganic Nitrogen Deposition and Its Impacts on N:P-Ratios and Lake Productivity
Authors: Hessen Dag
Published: March 2013

The pronounced increase in the cycling and deposition of biologically reactive dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) over large areas globally not only cause increased concentrations of DIN in surface waters, but it will also affect nutrient ratios in rivers, lakes and coastal areas. This review addresses the flux and fate of DIN, focusing NO3 in lakes of boreal and alpine catchments. Not only DIN-deposition, but also catchment properties strongly affect the concentrations of NO3 in lakes, as well as NO3:total P (TP) ratios. This ratio displays an extreme variability, and does also serve as an indicator of shift between N and P-limitation of aquatic autotrophs. A high share of forests and bogs in the catchment generally decreases NO3:total P ratios, while alpine and subalpine catchments with sparse vegetation cover may have high NO3:total P ratios, especially in regions with high DIN-deposition. Several empirical and experimental studies indicate a shift from an initial N to P-limitation, but for N-limited lakes, an increased growth of phytoplankton, periphytes and macrophytes may be accredited to elevated inputs of DIN. An intensified P-limitation may also be a consequence of elevated DIN-deposition. This P-limitation may again yield higher C:P-ratios in autotrophs with negative impacts on grazers and higher trophic levels.
Kinetics and mechanism of the anilinolysis of aryl phenyl isothiocyanophosphates in acetonitrile
Authors: Barai Hasi Rani , Lee Hai Whang
Published: March 2013

Kinetic studies on the reactions of Y-aryl phenyl isothiocyanophosphates with substituted X-anilines and deuterated X-anilines were carried out in acetonitrile at 55.0 °C. The free-energy relationships with X in the nucleophiles were biphasic concave upwards with a break region between X = H and 4-Cl, giving unusual positive ρX and negative βX values with less basic anilines (X = 4-Cl and 3-Cl). A stepwise mechanism with rate-limiting bond breaking for more basic anilines and with rate-limiting bond formation for less basic anilines is proposed based on the positive and negative ρXY values, respectively. The deuterium kinetic isotope effects involving deuterated anilines (XC6H4ND2) showed primary normal and secondary inverse DKIEs for more basic and less basic anilines, rationalized by frontside attack involving hydrogen-bonded four-center-type TSf and backside attack TSb, respectively. The positive ρX values with less basic anilines are substantiated by the tight TS, in which the extent of the bond formation is great and the degree of the bond breaking is considerably small.
Management of Fever in Older Adults
Authors: Outzen Mark
Published: March 2013

Few current standards exist for the identification and management of fever in older adults. Fever is one aspect of a controlled, complex febrile response that involves numerous physiological systems and must be distinguished from hyperthermia. Although most commonly identified with infection, numerous noninfectious etiologies exist. Fever is an adaptive response and is generally beneficial, especially in terms of the immunological response. Adverse consequences of fever are rare in older adults. Despite its metabolic costs, fever seldom requires treatment, except in certain patients who may not tolerate the stress. Controlling fever with antipyretic agents must be considered carefully, as the presence of fever may be helpful in guiding therapy, and antipyretic agents may have adverse effects. Recommendations are offered for identification and management of fever in older adults.
The Role of Friends in Predicting Loneliness Among Older Women Living Alone
Authors: Eshbaugh Elaine M.
Published: March 2013

This study examines the role of friends in predicting loneliness among 53 women age 65 and older who live alone. It was hypothesized that friends would be more important in predicting loneliness for those participants who did not have family living in close proximity than for those who had family nearby. However, this was not the case: Self-reported close friends were important for women living alone, regardless of whether they had family living locally. Nurses may want to use these findings to encourage older women to make social connections, even if they live close to their family.
A Comparison of Health Promotion Behaviors in Rural and Urban Community-Dwelling Spousal Caregivers
Authors: Lee Cheryl J.
Published: March 2013

Two decades of research describes the physical and mental stress experienced by caregivers, with little attention given to health promotion issues. The goal of this descriptive study was to identify and compare the health promotion behaviors (HPBs) used by older rural and urban women providing spousal care. Seventy-two women completed the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile-II (HPLP-II) and a demographic survey. The most frequently reported HPBs related to interpersonal relations, spiritual growth, and stress management, while the least frequent related to physical activity. No significant differences existed on mean scores of the six subscales and overall HPLP-II of the rural and urban sample population.
Suicidal Ideation, Hardiness, and Successful Aging with HIV: Considerations for Nursing
Authors: Vance David E. , Struzick Tom , Burrage Joe
Published: March 2013

Several predictors of suicidal ideation found in older adults and adults with HIV are the same; synergistically, those aging with HIV may be at risk for suicidal ideation. Focusing on the concept of hardiness provides insight into mitigating suicidal ideation and accentuating successful aging with HIV. Some individuals may have hardy characteristics that counteract the detrimental effects of aging with HIV; others may require greater guidance to cope with the effects that lead to suicidal ideation. As these connections are examined, the concept of hardiness is examined in relation to aging with HIV. Implications for nursing are posited.
Positive and Negative Neuroplasticity: Implications for Age-Related Cognitive Declines
Authors: Vance David E. , Wright Mary Annette
Published: March 2013

Cognitive complaints and declines increase with age, which can interfere with everyday functioning and quality of life for older adults. With the increasing number of older adults, the need to promote successful cognitive aging will grow. Nurses, as health educators, will be increasingly called on to provide patients with information on how to avoid cognitive problems and accentuate cognitive abilities. This article provides some of the basic principles and ways of facilitating successful cognitive aging, such as positive and negative neuroplasticity and cognitive reserve, that can be incorporated into nursing education. Furthermore, this information can be an impetus for nurse researchers to explore evidence-based methods to facilitate successful cognitive aging.
Don’t Just Do Something, Stand There
Authors: Dettmore Diane , Gabriele Louise Carmen
Published: March 2013

Nurses are taught a variety of interventions to relieve patient suffering. They are often more comfortable with patient suffering that is physical in nature rather than psychological, existential, and spiritual. Remaining present for patients and families whose suffering cannot be easily relieved is particularly challenging. This article describes how an expert nurse responded to unrelieved suffering and offers insight into ways of being present for patients and families.
Heráclito, DK 22 B 44 (frg. 103, Marcovich)
Authors: Vítek Tomáš
Published: March 2013

La autenticidad del fragmento B 44 de Heráclito puede ser cuestionada por los siguientes motivos: 1. anomalías estilísticas y sintácticas (artículos problemáticos, una extraña inserción de ὑπὲρ τοῦ γινομένου); 2. semejanza entre el mensaje of B 44 y B 115 (duplicación de la misma metáfora); 3. incongruencia entre el mensaje de B 44 y las posiciones de Heráclito; 4. significado anacrónico del término νόμος que no podía hacer referencia a una ley en tiempos de Heráclito; 5. analogía con la sabiduría gnómica tópica; 6. analogía con los falsa heracliteos de tenor moralizante; 7. existencia de una conexión de B 44 con B 43 que no se encuentra en ningún otro lugar. Semejantes objeciones no excluyen la autenticidad del fragmento, pero sus defensores debieran contrarrestarlos con argumentaciones solida.
Isidoro de Sevilla y los comici ueteres. Ad Isid., Orig. VIII 7.7
Authors: Rzepkowski Krzysztof
Published: March 2013

En el capítulo 7 del libro VIII de Las Etimologías, dedicado a los poetas romanos (De poetis), Isidoro de Sevilla separa ueteres de noui comici. Son Plauto, Luccio Accio y Terencio los que integran la nómina de los ueteres, aunque Accio, según nuestro conocimiento, compuso sólo tragedias, así que resulta difícil considerarlo un comediógrafo. En este artículo intento probar que todos los argumentos paleográficos, fonéticos, históricos y literarios están a favor de la enmienda del peculiar «Accius» por el esperado «Caecilius» (i.e. Cecilio Estacio).
Study on the Market Risk Measurement of the Style Portfolios in Stock Markets Based on EVT-t-Copula Model
Authors: Zhou Yuhong , Guo Wenwei
Published: March 2013

For the presence of non-normal distribution characteristics in the financial assets returns, the model of AR(1)-GJR(1,1) is used to characterize the marginal distribution of the style assets in China stock market. The Copula function is introduced to analyze the dependency structure between the six style assets, combined with the marginal distributed residual sequences. And the joint return distribution of the style portfolios is simulated, combined with extreme value theory and Monte Carlo simulation method. Then the market risks (VaR and CVaR) of the style portfolios in China stock markets are obtained. The results of the study show that the generalized Pareto distribution Model can well fit the non-normal distribution characteristics such as peak and fat tail in the style assets returns.
Performance Evaluation Method and Algorithm of Knowledge Management for Product Innovation Design
Authors: Chen Yongdang , Ren Huijuan , Bao Zhiqiang , Liu Guangmei , Ma Huali
Published: March 2013

This paper presents a discussion of knowledge management performance evaluation index and evaluation methods for product innovation. The content of knowledge management and the flow of knowledge in product innovation process are analyzed. According to the purpose of performance evaluation and combined with the characteristics of product innovation, the knowledge management performance index for product innovation is established, and the specific evaluation method and algorithm are described. The fuzzy comprehensive evaluation process is discussed.
Wildfire Impacts on Red Imported Fire Ant Captures Around Forest Ponds in the Lost Pines Ecoregion of Texas
Authors: Brown Donald J. , Preston Devin B. , Ozel Emrah , Forstner Michael R.J.
Published: March 2013

The impacts of high-intensity wildfires on red imported fire ant Solenopsis invicta abundances in forest systems are currently unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a high-intensity wildfire around pond edges on red imported fire ant captures in the Lost Pines ecoregion of Texas, which provides habitat for most of the remaining endangered Houston toads Bufo houstonensis. The red imported fire ant is a known predator of Houston toads, and thus there is interest in understanding the potential and realized impacts of this species on Houston toad survivorship. Our results suggest the wildfire did not directly impact captures-per-unit-effort, but it had indirect positive impacts through reductions in canopy cover due to overstory tree mortality. The results of this study indicate that both area occupied by red imported fire ants and site-specific red imported fire ant densities could increase dramatically in the Lost Pines as a result of the wildfire and subsequent human-based recovery efforts.
Fractal Analysis of Raceway Boundary in Blast Furnace Model
Authors: Sun Ye , Chen Ren , Wu Guo Xi , Sun Li Na
Published: March 2013

The raceway boundary described with contour field is coarse and fragmentized, but all of previous studies are based on Euclidean geometry. In this paper, particle velocity contour has been developed to define the raceway boundary. Then the fractal method of calculating raceway size, which describe boundary with extremely un-regular or fragment characteristic, is brought forward in physical model. The results show that the precise raceway boundary can be obtained by particle velocity contour.
Computation and Comparison of Dynamic Viscosity Based on Quasi-Static and Dynamic FEM Analysis for AL7050-T7451
Authors: Minhas Zill-e Hasnain , Qin Sun
Published: March 2013

Coefficients of dynamic viscosity for AL7050-T7451 at room temperature is extracted by creep and stress relaxation simulations in Ansys. An analogy has been established for both creep and stress relaxation, with simple Maxwell Model. The stress relaxation curve thus obtained is then used to generate the Prony series coefficients which are then used to run some dynamic analysis in Ansys to see the effect of loading at different frequencies on the value of η (i.e dynamic viscosity). This will be verified with the simple analytical dynamic formulation based on the Maxwell Model. A good agreement has been found for both quasi-static and dynamic tests with Maxwell model.
Three-Channel Control for the Depth of AUV and its Dynamic Performance Simulation
Authors: Teng Peng Hua , Zhang Yu Wen , Hou Er Hu
Published: March 2013

The autonomous underwater vehicle can be affected by sea flow and other factors when in a motion to a certain fixed depth. To guarantee the stability of cruise trajectory of autonomous underwater vehicle and considering the influence of sea flow on its motion, the underwater six-free-degree motion mathematical model for the vehicle is established in combination with the sea flow model. Besides, dynamic features of the longitudinal plane, horizontal plane and crosswise-rolling of the vehicle at different navigation speeds are simulated with the three-channel closed-loop control system. The simulation result indicates that the vehicle can move stably at a certain depth and with the achieved accuracy by means of closed-loop control.
PNAVSIM: A Numerical Simulation Package for Pulsar Navigation
Authors: Huang Liang Wei , Liang Bin , Zhang Tao
Published: March 2013

PNAVSIM is a package for numerical investigation of pulsar navigation. It contains a number of methods and algorithms for the simulation purpose in navigation. The photon-level integrated simulation model can be built easily based on the PNAVSIM library. The toolkit API can also be conveniently used by the developer in his own program. Functions are packed into modules at different levels. The top-level modules dealing with the spacecraft orbit dynamics, the pulse signal time delay, and the navigation algorithms are introduced. The structure of the PNAVSIM package makes it possible for developers to build simulation models flexibly and quickly, which enables more efficient applications of pulsar navigation.
Simulation on the Burden Distribution by DEM
Authors: Sun Ye , Wu Guo Xi , Chen Ren , Sun Li Na , Li Hai Feng
Published: March 2013

In this paper, a numerical simulation model based on discrete element method (DEM) has been developed to analyze the burden distribution in the Melter gasifier of COREX process. The burden trajectory, the location and the burden surface profile are analyzed in the top charging of melter gasifier. The distribution of ore and coke and the porosity in the radial direction are given under the different charging mode. The results can be used to optimize the charging patterns in order to obtain the reasonable gas distribution.
Research of Control and Calibration Method on Laser Simulator for Optoelectronic Confrontation HWIL Simulation System
Authors: Wang Jian Jun , Zhang Pei Lu
Published: March 2013

In the paper, the control and calibration method on laser simulator is studied, which is based on optoelectronic confrontation hardware-in-loop (HWIL) simulation system. The control of the laser energy and spot size are necessary in the simulation system, and it is important to make the test successfully. The laser simulator simulates the changing of laser energy by the continuous rotation of Glan prism and the changing of the spot size by the telescope system. To get high accuracy of laser power and spot size, the accurate calibration of the relation of the rotation position and the attenuation process and the relation of spot size and the position of the motion platform in laser simulator is necessary. We apply dual calibration on the laser energy. In order to achieve precision simulation of spot diameter changes, we need to calibrate the relationship between four parameters accurately, they are the laser frequency, expansion beam lenss linear position, the distance of the receiver screen to the laser beam exit and spot diameter. And the feasibility was proved by the calibration data.
Vehicle Clutch Dynamic Simulation Based on Matlab/Simulink
Authors: Shi Pei Cheng , Fang Tao
Published: March 2013

In order to achieve the dynamic simulation of vehicle clutch, the paper calculated the dynamic parameters of the locking and sliding process of vehicle clutch and established a Matlab/Simulink simulation model which can describe the revolution state of vehicle clutch. Also, it analyzed the dynamic behavior of clutch locking and sliding process. The research illustrates that the simulation model can correctly describe the dynamics of moving vehicle with combining and separating process of the clutch, and the dynamic simulation analysis reflects the alternation of clutch locking and slipping process more intuitively than the static model. Moreover, the method provides a reference for the dynamic control and integral optimization design of automatic clutch.
System of Greenhouse Temperature and Humidity Monitoring Based on LabVIEW
Authors: Chen Chun Ling , Jin Jian Feng , Li Tian Lai , Xu Tong Yu
Published: March 2013

The greenhouse temperature and humidity monitoring base on the application of virtual instrument technique apply LabVIEW as the software development platform, taking computer technology as the core. It equipment with the sensor, data acquisition, signal conditioning circuit and other hardware devices to achieve the greenhouse temperature and humidity parameters such as real-time acquisition, analysis, display, data storage function. The virtual instruments and the traditional monitoring equipment compared to display more intuitive, more easy to achieve functional expansion.
Simulation Study on Travel-Driven System of HST Loader with Matlab/Simulink
Authors: Song En Zhe , Ji Chang Xi , Yin Mei Liang , Sun Jun , Yin Cheng Shun
Published: March 2013

This paper establishes the mathematical model of the volume speed-modulating system and simulates dynamically with Matlab/Simulink. Provide a theoretical basis for algorithm of close loop control [ of the three variables which are diesel engines, variable pump and variable motor. Use PID control algorithm, through simulation and analysis, find out the parameter optimization adjustment rule [2,, seek matching operation between three variables. Provide a theoretical basis for the study on dynamic system of full-hydraulic loaders and have very important practical significance in realizing high efficiency energy saving and reducing energy consumption.
The Simulation Analysis of Harmonics in Typical Rectification Circuit
Authors: Zhou Jun , Han Gu Yong , Lu Song , Wang Jian Hua
Published: March 2013

Becauseof the existence of the nonlinear load, rectifier circuit in the work will produce harmonic. It analyzed the infection of the harmonicto the circuit and analyzed the quantity of differ-harmonic in theoutput from three-phase bridge rectification circuit and reversing double-starrectification circuit with equilibrium reactor.This can guide us to research how to suppress harmonic.