bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technical advances in pulsed-neutron interpretation for cased-hole logging: Physics, interpretation, and log examples
Authors: Jacobson Larry , Jambunathan Venkataraman , Liu Zhipeng , Guo Weijun
Published: January 2015

Recently developed multidetector pulsed-neutron tools (MDPNTs — a term describing a pulsed-neutron tool with at least three detectors) can provide three-phase formation fluid analysis in cased wells. These tools are 43 mm (1 11/16 in.) or 54 mm (2 1/8 in.) in diameter and can be logged in or below most tubing sizes. We reviewed traditional oil- and water-saturation techniques as well as indirect gas-saturation techniques, and we compared them with recently developed direct gas-saturation techniques, now available from MDPNTs. A log example developed the data verification and interpretation process. The interpretation process was divided into two parts: First, we verified the log data quality and second, we applied a newly developed gas model to the log data providing gas saturation without any reliance on the previously determined oil and water saturation.
Excess Iodide Induces an Acute Inhibition of the Sodium/Iodide Symporter in Thyroid Male Rat Cells by Increasing Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Arriagada Alejandro A. , Albornoz Eduardo , Opazo Ma. Cecilia , Becerra Alvaro , Vidal Gonzalo , Fardella Carlos , Michea Luis , Carrasco Nancy , Simon Felipe , Elorza Alvaro A. , Bueno Susan M. , Kalergis Alexis M. , Riedel Claudia A.
Published: January 2015

Na+/I− symporter (NIS) mediates iodide (I−) uptake in the thyroid gland, the first and rate-limiting step in the biosynthesis of the thyroid hormones. The expression and function of NIS in thyroid cells is mainly regulated by TSH and by the intracellular concentration of I−. High doses of I− for 1 or 2 days inhibit the synthesis of thyroid hormones, a process known as the Wolff-Chaikoff effect. The cellular mechanisms responsible for this physiological response are mediated in part by the inhibition of I− uptake through a reduction of NIS expression. Here we show that inhibition of I− uptake occurs as early as 2 hours or 5 hours after exposure to excess I− in FRTL-5 cells and the rat thyroid gland, respectively. Inhibition of I− uptake was not due to reduced NIS expression or altered localization in thyroid cells. We observed that incubation of FRTL-5 cells with excess I− for 2 hours increased H2O2 generation. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of excess I− on NIS-mediated I− transport could be recapitulated by H2O2 and reverted by reactive derived oxygen species scavengers. The data shown here support the notion that excess I− inhibits NIS at the cell surface at early times by means of a posttranslational mechanism that involves reactive derived oxygen species.
γ-Oryzanol Protects Pancreatic β-Cells Against Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Male Mice
Authors: Kozuka Chisayo , Sunagawa Sumito , Ueda Rei , Higa Moritake , Tanaka Hideaki , Shimizu-Okabe Chigusa , Ishiuchi Shogo , Takayama Chitoshi , Matsushita Masayuki , Tsutsui Masato , Miyazaki Jun-ichi , Oyadomari Seiichi , Shimabukuro Michio , Masuzaki Hiroaki
Published: January 2015

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is profoundly involved in dysfunction of β-cells under high-fat diet and hyperglycemia. Our recent study in mice showed that γ-oryzanol, a unique component of brown rice, acts as a chemical chaperone in the hypothalamus and improves feeding behavior and diet-induced dysmetabolism. However, the entire mechanism whereby γ-oryzanol improves glucose metabolism throughout the body still remains unclear. In this context, we tested whether γ-oryzanol reduces ER stress and improves function and survival of pancreatic β-cells using murine β-cell line MIN6. In MIN6 cells with augmented ER stress by tunicamycin, γ-oryzanol decreased exaggerated expression of ER stress-related genes and phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor-2α, resulting in restoration of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and prevention of apoptosis. In islets from high-fat diet-fed diabetic mice, oral administration of γ-oryzanol improved glucose-stimulated insulin secretion on following reduction of exaggerated ER stress and apoptosis. Furthermore, we examined the impact of γ-oryzanol on low-dose streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice, where exaggerated ER stress and resultant apoptosis in β-cells were observed. Also in this model, γ-oryzanol attenuated mRNA level of genes involved in ER stress and apoptotic signaling in islets, leading to amelioration of glucose dysmetabolism. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that γ-oryzanol directly ameliorates ER stress-induced β-cell dysfunction and subsequent apoptosis, highlighting usefulness of γ-oryzanol for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
Bisphenol A Alters Autonomic Tone and Extracellular Matrix Structure and Induces Sex-Specific Effects on Cardiovascular Function in Male and Female CD-1 Mice
Authors: Belcher Scott M. , Gear Robin B. , Kendig Eric L.
Published: January 2015

The aim of this study was to determine whether bisphenol A (BPA) has adverse effects on cardiovascular functions in CD-1 mice and define sex-specific modes of BPA action in the heart. Dams and analyzed progeny were maintained on a defined diet containing BPA (0.03, 0.3, 3, 30, or 300 ppm) that resulted in BPA exposures from 4–5 to approximately 5000 μg/kg · d or a diet containing 17α-ethinyl estradiol (EE; ∼0.02, 0.2, and 0.15 μg/kg · d) as an oral bioavailable estrogen control. Assessment of electrocardiogram parameters using noninvasive methods found that ventricular functions in both male and female mice were not altered by either BPA or EE. However, exposure-related changes in the rates of ventricular contraction, suggestive of a shift in sympathovagal balance of heart rate control toward increased parasympathetic activity, were detected in males. Decreased systolic blood pressure was observed in males exposed to BPA above 5 μg/kg · d and in females from the highest BPA exposure group. Morphometric histological measures revealed sexually dimorphic changes in the composition of the cardiac collagen extracellular matrix, increases in fibrosis, and evidence of modest exposure-related remodeling. Experiments using the α-selective adrenergic agonist phenylephrine found that BPA enhanced reflex bradycardia in females, but not males, revealed that BPA and EE exposure sex specifically altered the sympathetic regulation of the baroreflex circuits. Increased sensitivity to the cardiotoxic effects of the β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol was observed in BPA- and EE-exposed females. This effect was not observed in males, in which BPA or EE exposures were protective of isoproterenol-induced ischemic damage and hypertrophy. The results of RNA sequence analysis identified significant sex-specific changes in gene expression in response to BPA that were consistent with the observed exposure-related phenotypic changes in the collagenous and noncollagenous extracellular matrix, cardiac remodeling, altered autonomic responses, changes in ion channel and transporter functions, and altered glycolytic and lipid metabolism.
PAPSS2 Deficiency Causes Androgen Excess via Impaired DHEA Sulfation—In Vitro and in Vivo Studies in a Family Harboring Two Novel PAPSS2 Mutations
Authors: Oostdijk Wilma , Idkowiak Jan , Mueller Jonathan W. , House Philip J. , Taylor Angela E. , O'Reilly Michael W. , Hughes Beverly A. , de Vries Martine C. , Kant Sarina G. , Santen Gijs W. E. , Verkerk Annemieke J. M. H. , Uitterlinden André G. , Wit Jan M. , Losekoot Monique , Arlt Wiebke
Published: January 2015

Context:

PAPSS2 (PAPS synthase 2) provides the universal sulfate donor PAPS (3′-phospho-adenosine-5′-phosphosulfate) to all human sulfotransferases, including SULT2A1, responsible for sulfation of the crucial androgen precursor dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Impaired DHEA sulfation is thought to increase the conversion of DHEA toward active androgens, a proposition supported by the previous report of a girl with inactivating PAPSS2 mutations who presented with low serum DHEA sulfate and androgen excess, clinically manifesting with premature pubarche and early-onset polycystic ovary syndrome.

Patients and Methods:

We investigated a family harboring two novel PAPSS2 mutations, including two compound heterozygous brothers presenting with disproportionate short stature, low serum DHEA sulfate, but normal serum androgens. Patients and parents underwent a DHEA challenge test comprising frequent blood sampling and urine collection before and after 100 mg DHEA orally, with subsequent analysis of DHEA sulfation and androgen metabolism by mass spectrometry. The functional impact of the mutations was investigated in silico and in vitro.

Results:

We identified a novel PAPSS2 frameshift mutation, c.1371del, p.W462Cfs*3, resulting in complete disruption, and a novel missense mutation, c.809G>A, p.G270D, causing partial disruption of DHEA sulfation. Both patients and their mother, who was heterozygous for p.W462Cfs*3, showed increased 5α-reductase activity at baseline and significantly increased production of active androgens after DHEA intake. The mother had a history of oligomenorrhea and chronic anovulation that required clomiphene for ovulation induction.

Conclusions:

We provide direct in vivo evidence for the significant functional impact of mutant PAPSS2 on DHEA sulfation and androgen activation. Heterozygosity for PAPSS2 mutations can be associated with a phenotype resembling polycystic ovary syndrome.
Development of an image-based screening system for inhibitors of the plastidial MEP pathway and of protein geranylgeranylation
Authors: Hartmann Michael , Gas-Pascual Elisabet , Hemmerlin Andrea , Rohmer Michel , Bach Thomas J.
Published: January 2015

We have recently established an in vivo visualization system for the geranylgeranylation of proteins in a stably transformed tobacco BY-2 cell line, which involves expressing a dexamethasone-inducible GFP fused to the prenylable, carboxy-terminal basic domain of the rice calmodulin CaM61, which naturally bears a CaaL geranylgeranylation motif (GFP-BD-CVIL). By using pathway-specific inhibitors it was demonstrated that inhibition of the methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway with oxoclomazone and fosmidomycin, as well as inhibition of protein geranylgeranyl transferase type 1 (PGGT-1), shifted the localization of the GFP-BD-CVIL protein from the membrane to the nucleus. In contrast, the inhibition of the mevalonate (MVA) pathway with mevinolin did not affect this localization. Furthermore, complementation assays with pathway-specific intermediates confirmed that the precursors for the cytosolic isoprenylation of this fusion protein are predominantly provided by the MEP pathway. In order to optimize this visualization system from a more qualitative assay to a statistically trustable medium or a high-throughput screening system, we established new conditions that permit culture and analysis in 96-well microtiter plates, followed by fluorescence microscopy. For further refinement, the existing GFP-BD-CVIL cell line was transformed with an estradiol-inducible vector driving the expression of a RFP protein, C-terminally fused to a nuclear localization signal (NLS-RFP). We are thus able to quantify the total number of viable cells versus the number of inhibited cells after various treatments. This approach also includes a semi-automatic counting system, based on the freely available image processing software. As a result, the time of image analysis as well as the risk of user-generated bias is reduced to a minimum. Moreover, there is no cross-induction of gene expression by dexamethasone and estradiol, which is an important prerequisite for this test system.
Evidence of polygenic selection on human stature inferred from spatial distribution of allele frequencies
Authors: Piffer Davide
Published: January 2015

Spatial patterns of allele frequencies reveal a clear signal of natural (or sexual) selection on human height. The average frequency of 66 common genetic variants for 26 populations belonging to 5 sub-continental human groups was significantly correlated to average phenotypic population height. The method of correlated vectors provided additional evidence for a signal of natural selection in SNPs with higher significance. Factor analysis of the five top genome-wide association study (GWAS) hits revealed a clear factor indicating selection pressures on human height, peaking among northern Europeans and some African groups (Esan Nigeria) whilst reaching a nadir among South-East Asians.
Ketamine infusion for patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support: a case series
Authors: Tellor Bethany , Shin Nicole , Graetz Thomas J. , Avidan Michael S.
Published: January 2015

The use of ketamine infusion for sedation/analgesia in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy has not been described. The aims of this retrospective cohort study were to explore whether ketamine infusion for patients requiring ECMO therapy was associated with altered RASS scores, decreased concurrent sedative or opioid use, or with changes in vasopressor requirements. 

All patients on ECMO who received ketamine infusions in addition to sedative and/or opioid infusions between December 2013 and October 2014 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis were retrospectively identified. Patient characteristics and process of care data were collected.

A total of 26 ECMO patients receiving ketamine infusion were identified. The median (inter quartile range [range]) age was 40 years (30-52 [25-66]) with 62% male. The median starting infusion rate of ketamine was 50 mg/hr (30-50 [6-150]) and it was continued for a median duration of 9 days (4-14 [0.2-21]). Prior to ketamine, 14/26 patients were receiving vasopressor infusions to maintain hemodynamic stability. Ketamine initiation was associated with a decrease in vasopressor requirement in 11/26  patients within two hours, and 0/26 required an increase (p<0.001). All patients were receiving sedative and/or opioid infusions at the time of ketamine initiation; 9/26 had a decrease in these infusions within two hours of ketamine initiation, and 1/26 had an increase (p=0.02; odds ratio for decrease to increase = 9; 95% CI, 1.14 to 71.04). The median (IQR[range]) RASS score 24 hours before ketamine initiation was -4 (-3 to -5, [0 to -5]) and after ketamine was -4 (-3 to -4 [-1 to -5]) (P= 0.614).

Ketamine infusion can be used as an adjunctive sedative agent in patients receiving ECMO and may decrease concurrent sedative and/or opioid infusions without altering RASS scores. The hemodynamic effects of ketamine may provide the benefit of decreasing vasopressor requirements.
The Real Oscar Curse: The Negative Consequences of Positive Status Shifts
Authors: Jensen Michael , Kim Heeyon
Published: January 2015

We examine the negative consequences of upward mobility following a sudden positive status shift. Building on sociological and social psychological research on status and happiness, we argue that status disruption and status deprivation provide different explanations of why sudden positive status shifts can have negative consequences for upwardly mobile social actors. We use the “Oscar curse,” the colorful belief that misfortune paradoxically befalls Academy Award winners, as our empirical context for studying the negative consequences of positive status shifts. We find no evidence of a professional Oscar curse; male and female Oscar winners and Oscar nominees appear in more films following their Oscar experiences than do other actors. We find most evidence of a male personal Oscar curse: survival analysis shows that the divorce rates of male Oscar winners and nominees increase following the Oscars but not the divorce rates of female Oscar winner and nominees. Our survival analysis suggests also that status disruption accounts for the negative male Oscar winner effect, whereas status deprivation accounts for the negative male Oscar nominee effect. We conclude by discussing the implications of our findings for status theory and how our study draws attention to the negative aspects of the proliferation of tournament structures in organizations and other aspects of social life.
IMPROVEMENT OF POINT LEPREAU GENERATING STATION ROP DETECTOR CHARACTERISTICS BY ADJUSTING GAINS IN COMPENSATION AMPLIFIERS
Authors: Anghel V. , Basque M.-J. , Comeau D. , Sur B. , Taylor D.
Published: January 2015

Canadian Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors are protected against reactor overpower by 2 independent shutdown systems: Shut Down System 1 and 2. At Point Lepreau Generating Station, these shutdown systems can be actuated by signals from Platinum-clad Inconel In-Core Flux Detectors measuring the neutron flux. These detectors have a complex dynamic behaviour, characterized by “prompt” and “delayed” components with respect to immediate changes in the in-core neutron flux. In aging detectors, it was found that the prompt response decreases. A detector response that actuates the shutdown system effectively has to have a large prompt response and a small delayed response. These required responses may be obtained by adjusting the dynamic compensation amplifiers (compensator) settings.

This paper presents the measured results of a compensation adjustment procedure for the in-core platinum-clad Inconel detectors. The compensation is computed from the detector parameters estimated by VS, a fully automated and qualified computer program that analyzes the response of the detectors.
PRELIMINARY METHODOLOGY FOR THE ANALYSIS OF THE NATIONAL RESEARCH UNIVERSAL REACTOR USING INTEGRATED SEVERE ACCIDENT MODELLING CODES
Authors: Morreale A.C. , Brown M.J. , Petoukhov S.M.
Published: January 2015

The National Research Universal (NRU) Reactor is a multi-purpose research reactor located at Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) Chalk River Laboratories. The severe accident case for the NRU has been explored through deterministic and probabilistic safety analysis (PSA) including multi-level PSAs that detail the progression and consequences of a severe accident in the NRU. These previous calculations lack the interconnected and comprehensive features of a full severe accident modelling code that is now the standard for severe accident analysis of power reactors. It was of interest within AECL to evaluate modern severe accident modelling codes to the NRU reactor case to enhance the understanding of accident progression and predict the system damage and radiation release consequences of a severe accident, which is a very low probability event. The NRU is smaller and operates at a lower power than the large scale power reactors (e.g., pressurized heavy water reactors, pressurized water reactors, and boiling water reactors) that these codes were designed to analyze. Additionally, the NRU has a unique design different from the power reactors and several features relevant to severe accidents including filtered venting, large passive heat sinks, and a dispersion fuel design of uranium-silicide in an aluminum matrix. The major severe accident analysis codes available to AECL and their applicability to the NRU are explored in this paper. In addition, a preliminary strategy for employing the most applicable codes to the NRU for the purposes of severe accident modelling is proposed.
Bone Marrow Necrosis
Authors: Wool Geoffrey D. , Deucher Anne
Published: January 2015

Objectives:

Bone marrow can undergo necrosis for many different causes; malignant causes are reported to be more frequent.

Methods:

We undertook a 10-year retrospective review of all bone marrow biopsy specimens with bone marrow necrosis at our institution.

Results:

Identified cases represented approximately 0.3% of our bone marrow cases. Most identified bone marrow cases with necrosis were involved by metastatic tumor or hematolymphoid malignancy (90% of total) in relatively equal proportions. In those cases of bone marrow necrosis with hematolymphoid malignancy, lymphoid disease predominated and the necrosis was often seen in the setting of chemotherapy. In metastatic tumor cases, necrosis seemed to enrich in prostate adenocarcinoma and Ewing sarcoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumor; neuroblastoma showed much less necrosis. Ten percent of patients with bone marrow necrosis had no underlying malignancy, and the associated causes varied.

Conclusions:

The causes of bone marrow necrosis are diverse but should always prompt careful assessment for malignancy and infectious etiology.
The Vascular Marker CD31 Also Highlights Histiocytes and Histiocyte-Like Cells Within Cutaneous Tumors
Authors: Vanchinathan Vijay , Mizramani Neda , Kantipudi Ramya , Schwartz Erich J. , Sundram Uma N.
Published: January 2015

Objectives:

While useful in diagnosing angiosarcomas, CD31 can also highlight histiocytes within soft tissue tumors and lead to errors in diagnosis. We sought to determine how often CD31 highlights cutaneous histiocytomas and histiocytoma mimics.

Methods:

We examined eight epithelioid cell histiocytomas (ECHs), 12 xanthogranulomas (XGs), nine cases of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), eight reticulohistiocytomas, 11 xanthomas, 29 atypical fibroxanthomas, nine granular cell tumors, four cases of angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia, nine intradermal Spitz nevi, and nine angiosarcomas with antibodies directed against CD31, CD34, CD163, and factor VIII.

Results:

CD31 marked cells in three of 12 XGs, four of nine cases of LCH, one of eight reticulohistiocytomas, one of 11 xanthomas, 10 of 29 atypical fibroxanthomas, four of four cases of angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia, nine of nine angiosarcomas, zero of nine granular cell tumors, and zero of eight ECHs. CD34 and factor VIII were negative in all nonvascular cases.

Conclusions:

Our results indicate that CD31 can mark lesional cells and imitate vascular tumors in cutaneous histiocytomas and histiocytoma mimics, an error that can be avoided by using a panel of antibodies.
Enhanced FHL2 and TGF-β1 Expression Is Associated With Invasive Growth and Poor Survival in Malignant Melanomas
Authors: Westphal Philipp , Mauch Cornelia , Florin Alexandra , Czerwitzki Jacqueline , Olligschläger Nina , Wodtke Claudia , Schüle Roland , Büttner Reinhard , Friedrichs Nicolaus
Published: January 2015

Objectives:

This study examines the expression and the role of four-and-a-half LIM domains protein 2 (FHL2) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in human malignant melanoma. It is determined whether both proteins influence melanoma survival time.

Methods:

We analyzed the immunohistochemical staining intensities of FHL2 and TGF-β1 in normal skin and in 50 malignant melanomas with different mutation status (BRAF-V600E, NRAS codon 61 mutation, and wild type). Survival data were available for 45 cases.

Results:

In melanocytes of nonneoplastic human skin, FHL2 expression was absent. In contrast, 38 (76%) of 50 melanomas showed strong cytoplasmic and partly nuclear FHL2 expression. At the invasion front, cytoplasmic TGF-β1 staining was observed in 32 (64%) of 50 melanomas, and a correlation of FHL2 and TGF-β1 staining intensities was detectable. In follow-up analyses, enhanced FHL2 and TGF-β1 staining intensities in the tumor invasion front were associated with poor survival.

Conclusions:

Enhanced FHL2 and TGF-β1 expression is correlated with poor survival in human malignant melanoma. Protumorigenic effects of autocrine TGF-β1 secretion might be exerted by induction of FHL2 expression in melanoma cells. Since melanomas treated with targeted therapies often do not show sufficient response rates, inhibition of FHL2 and/or TGF-β1 might be a promising therapeutic approach.
Detection of Acetylcholine Receptor Modulating Antibodies by Flow Cytometry
Authors: Lozier Bucky K. , Haven Thomas R. , Astill Mark E. , Hill Harry R.
Published: January 2015

Objectives:

To determine the clinical utility and performance characteristics of a laboratory-adapted flow cytometric method for the detection of acetylcholine receptor (AChR) modulating antibodies in myasthenia gravis (MG).

Methods:

Serum samples from 120 healthy donors and 100 patients with suspected MG were assessed for the ability to reduce surface AChR concentrations (antigenic modulation) in RD (TE671) or DB40 human muscle cell lines by flow cytometry. Reference ranges were established by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and results were then compared with those of the current radioimmunoassay (RIA).

Results:

Flow cytometric results from the RD cell line had an interpretive threshold of 46% modulation or greater and correlated best (98% sensitivity, 99% specificity) with those of the current RIA.

Conclusions:

The new flow cytometric method using the RD cell platform provided higher quality clinical results, a more robust and efficient assay format, a significant cost savings, and less environmental burden.
Religion, Science, and Culture: An Integrated, Interconnected Paradigm of Science
Authors: Abdullah M. Amin
Published: January 2015

Discussing the paradigm of dialogue and integration in the Islamic science of religion is important since the practice of religious education still applies the paradigm of conflict and independence. These paradigms have a great influence on the formation of socio-religious and cultural ways of thinking. The relationship between Islamic religiousc and natural, social, as well as cultural sciences, needs patterns of integrated, interconnected relations and dialogues. Islamic Studies requires a multidisciplinary approach, that is, interdisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity. Scientific linearity, in which science is narrowly defined and mono-disciplinary, will lead to an understanding of religion and religious interpretations that has no contact with and relevance to the context in which it is studied. New types of religious thought that encourage independent discussion and dialogue on the subjective, objective and intersubjective aspects of science and religion will create the emergence of a new type of religiosity in the multicultural era. All of this requires more effort to undertake a serious reconstruction of scientific methodologies and the methodologies of scientific studies of religion.

[Penerapan paradigma dialog dan integrasi dalam ilmu-ilmu keislaman masih penting untuk didiskusikan mengingat praktik pendidikan agama masih menerapkan paradigm konflik dan independen. Paradigma-paradigma ini memiliki pengaruh yang besar dalam pembentukan cara pandang keagamaan, baik sosial maupun kultural. Hubungan antara ilmu-ilmu keislaman di satu sisi dengan ilmu-ilmu alam, sosial, dan budaya di sisi lain, memerlukan pola hubungan dan dialog yang terintegrasi-interkoneksi. Studi Islam mensyaratkan pendekatan multi disiplin, baik interdisipliner maupun transdisipliner. Linearitas keilmuan yang membatasi bidang ilmu secara sempit dan mono-disiplin akan menggiring pemahaman agama dan tafsir keagamaan yang tidak terkait dan tidak relevan dengan konteks pengkajian. Model baru pemikiran keagamaan yang mendorong dialog dan diskusi yang independen mengenai aspek-aspek subjektif, objektif, dan intersubjektif ilmu dan agama akan menciptakan munculnya model baru keberagamaan di era multicultural. Semua ini memerlukan lebih banyak upaya serius dalam merekonstruksi metodologi keilmuan dan metode-metode studi agama.]
Bolivian Teachers’ Agency: Soldiers of Liberation or Guards of Coloniality and Continuation?
Authors: Lopes Cardozo Mieke T. A.
Published: January 2015

This paper investigates the problems and promises of teachers’ agency associated with Bolivia’s current “decolonising” education reform. The Avelino Siñani Elizardo Pérez (ASEP) education reform is part of a counter-hegemonic and anti-neoliberal policy that aims to advance the political project of the government of Evo Morales, with teachers as its most strategic leading card. The article draws on theoretical insights from the Strategic Relational Approach (SRA) and applies this frame to analyse teachers’ agency for change in Bolivia’s contemporary socio-political context. This framework allows for a critical reflection of current discourses and educators’ efforts to decolonize the education system, in a context of political and societal tensions and inequalities. The article argues that the current political discourse and socio-political changes open up some spaces for teachers’ agency. However, the reality in rather conservative teacher education institutions and schools, together with teachers’ daily struggle for survival, provide serious constraints for teachers to become “committed or transformative intellectuals”.
Rethinking Institutional Secularization as an (Im)possible “Policy”
Authors: Gomez Caride Ezequiel
Published: January 2015

The paper analyzes through a genealogical discourse analysis how religion as a cultural practice escapes into the borders of state institutions. While most studies about secularization focus on institutional aspects, such approaches tend to link state secularist policies with cultural secularization. This essay argues that state promotion of religious institutional secularist policies needs to be rethought. The institutionalization of republicanism in Argentina exemplifies this problem. In order to shape a secular Argentinean citizen the government promoted an array of secularist policies (1860–1910). The article aims to problematize such linear historical account by showing how Catholic religious principles became part of the “secular” Argentinean citizen. In fact, religious connotations such as salvific narratives or dogmatic qualities were reenacted in seemingly secular state discursive spaces. Nowadays, several states are enacting secularist state policies to ban nonwestern religious manifestations from public spaces such as schools. In unraveling the Argentinean processes, the article aspires to highlight the impossibilities of banning religion from the narratives that shape the republican citizen.
Fabrication and characterization of nanostructured
thermoelectric FexCo1-xSb3
Authors: Tafti Mohsen Yakshi , Saleemi Mohsin , Toprak Muhammet S. , Johnsson Mats , Jacquot Alexandre , Jägle Martin , Muhammed Mamoun
Published: January 2015

A novel synthesis route for the fabrication
of p-type nanostructured skutterudite, FexCo1-xSb3
in large quantity is reported. This scalable synthesis route
provides nano-engineered material with less impact on
the environment compared to conventional synthesis
procedures. Several Fe substituted compositions have
been synthesized to confirm the feasibility of the process.
The process consists of a nano-sized precursor fabrication
of iron and cobalt oxalate, and antimony oxides
by chemical co-precipitation. Further thermochemical
processes result in the formation of iron substituted
skutterudites. The nanopowders are compacted by Spark
Plasma Sintering (SPS) technique in order to maintain
nanostructure. Detailed physicochemical as well as
thermoelectric transport properties are evaluated. Results
reveal strongly reduced thermal conductivity values
compared to conventionally prepared counterparts, due
to nanostructuring. P-type characteristic was observed
from the Seebeck measurements while electrical
conductivity is high and shows metallic behavior.
The highest TE figure of merit of 0.25 at 800 K has been
achieved, which is strongly enhanced with respect to the
mother compound CoSb3. This suggests the promise of
the utilized method of fabrication and processing for TE
applications with improved performance.
Generation of High Frequency Pin-hole Discharge
in Water Solutions
Authors: Krčma František , Kozáková Zdenka , Vašíček Michal
Published: January 2015

This paper presents results on electric discharge
generation by high frequency high voltage (15–100 kHz)
in NaCl solutions with different initial conductivity
(100–1300 mS cm-1), and compares them with DC discharge
in the same electrode configuration. A batch plasma reactor
in the pin-hole configuration contained a ceramic dielectric
barrier separating two planar stainless steel electrodes;
barrier thickness of 0.6 mm and pin-hole diameter of
0.6 mm was used. Lissajous charts were evaluated from
electric measurements for different discharge phases
(electrolysis, bubble formation and discharge regular
operation). Breakdown moments for different solution
conductivities were determined from discharge power
evaluation as a function of applied frequency. Breakdown
voltage amplitude was decreased by the increasing
conductivity in both regimes while frequency and current
decreased. Changes of physical parameters (temperature,
solution conductivity and pH) as well as production of
hydrogen peroxide at different solution conductivities were
compared. Solution conductivity was increased in both
discharge regimes and with the initial conductivity value.
Solution temperature was increased by the discharge in
both regimes and with the increasing initial conductivity,
too. Solution pH dropped to acidic conditions when HF or
DC positive regime was applied while it was enhanced by
DC negative regime.
Glycoprofiling of cancer biomarkers: Label-free
electrochemical lectin-based biosensors
Authors: Pihíková Dominika , Kasák Peter , Tkac Jan
Published: January 2015

Glycosylation of biomolecules is one of the
most prevalent post- and co-translational modification in
a human body, with more than half of all human proteins
being glycosylated. Malignant transformation of cells
influences glycosylation machinery resulting in subtle
changes of the glycosylation pattern within the cell
populations as a result of cancer. Thus, an altered terminal
glycan motif on glycoproteins could provide a warning
signal about disease development and progression
and could be applied as a reliable biomarker in cancer
diagnostics. Among all highly effective glycoprofiling
tools, label-free electrochemical impedance spectroscopy
(EIS)-based biosensors have emerged as especially
suitable tool for point-of-care early-stage cancer
detection. Herein, we highlight the current challenges
in glycoprofiling of various cancer biomarkers by
ultrasensitive impedimetric-based biosensors with low
sample consumption, low cost fabrication and simple
miniaturization. Additionally, this review provides a short
introduction to the field of glycomics and lectinomics and
gives a brief overview of glycan alterations in different
types of cancer.
Unexpected formation of [M]2+ from [M+CuCl+H]2+
ions under CID conditions, where M is a molecule
of 3,5-bis(2,2’-bipyridin-4-ylethynyl)benzoic acid
or its methyl ester
Authors: Frański Rafał , Zalas Maciej , Gierczyk Błażej , Cegłowski Michał , Schroeder Grzegorz , Kozik Tomasz , Hoffmann Marcin
Published: January 2015

[M+CuCl+H]2+ ions were generated using
electrospray ionization (ESI); where M is a molecule
of 3,5-bis(2,2’-bipyridin-4-ylethynyl)benzoic acid or its
methyl ester (1 and 2, respectively). The ions were subjected
to CID-MS/MS analysis. It was found that their gas phase
decomposition lead to the formation of rare di-cations
[M]2+, namely [1]2+ and [2]2+ ions. The formation of [1]2+ ion
from [3+H+CuCl]2+ ion in the second fragmentation, where
3 is ethyl ester of 3,5-bis(2,2-bipyridin-4-ylethynyl)benzoic
acid, was also observed since in the first fragmentation
step the loss of ethylene molecule from [3+H+CuCl]2+ ion
took place. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time
that [M]2+ ions formation from respective metal complexes
has been reported. It is also unusual that formation
of [M]2+ ions is not accompanied by formation of [M]+∙
ions. Furthermore, as expected, theoretical calculation
and electron ionization mass spectra show that 1 and 2 are
not especially prone to form [M]2+ ions. Thus formation of
[M]2+ ions under CID conditions is very surprising.
Chemometric Analysis of Grapes
Authors: Ranđelovic Sasa S. , Kostic Danijela A. , Arsic Biljana B. , Mitic Snezana S. , Rasic Ivana D. , Mitic Milan N. , Dimitrijevic Danica S. , Stojanovic Gordana S.
Published: January 2015

Concentrations of several heavy metals in soil,
water and grape samples (variety Plovdina) collected
at five locations at different distances from the road in
Southeast Serbia were determined using the Flame Atomic
Absorption Spectrophotometry. There was a decrease
in analyzed samples with an increase in distance from
the road. A complete absence of several examined, very
harmful heavy metals (Mn, Ni, and Cd) in all analyzed
samples was found. The analysis of grape samples proved
the presence of iron, zinc and copper in concentration
ranges 3.3-19.8, 0.31-0.63, and 3.4-13.6 μg g-1, respectively.
The content of heavy metals in soil, water and grapes
were below allowable limits. Correlation analysis showed
a significant relationship between the concentrations of
metals in soil and grape samples.
Comparing Data Envelopment Analysis and Human Decision Making Unit Rankings: A Survey Approach
Authors: Dimitrov Stanko
Published: January 2015

In this paper we compare the ordinal rankings generated through Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) methods to ordinal rankings generated by human decision makers.
Through eliciting the total rank ordering for approximately 100 individuals on all of the four different datasets of Decision Making Units (DMUs), we compare the rankings generated by individuals to those generated by ten DEA methods.
We observe that depending on the characteristics of the dataset one of the DEA methods performs better than the others in matching human decision makers.
Leverage Effect for Volatility with Generalized Laplace Error
Authors: Javed Farrukh , Podgórski Krzysztof
Published: January 2015

We propose a new model that accounts for
the asymmetric response of volatility to positive (`good news') and negative (`bad news') shocks in economic time series – the so-called leverage effect.
In the past, asymmetric powers of errors in the conditionally heteroskedastic models have been used to capture this effect.
Our model is using the gamma difference representation of the generalized Laplace distributions that efficiently models the asymmetry. It has one additional natural parameter, the shape, that is used instead of power in the asymmetric power models to capture the strength of a long-lasting effect of shocks.
Some fundamental properties of the model are provided including the formula for covariances and an explicit form for the conditional distribution of `bad' and `good' news processes given the past – the property that is important for statistical fitting of the model. Relevant features of volatility models are illustrated using S&P 500 historical data.
Integrated petrographic – rock mechanic borecorestudy from the metamorphic basement of thePannonian Basin, Hungary
Authors: Molnár László , Vásárhelyi Balázs , Tóth Tivadar M. , Schubert Félix
Published: January 2015

The integrated evaluation of borecores from theMezősas-Furta fractured metamorphic hydrocarbon reservoirsuggests significantly distinct microstructural androck mechanical features within the analysed fault rocksamples. The statistical evaluation of the clast geometriesrevealed the dominantly cataclastic nature of the samples.Damage zone of the fault can be characterised byan extremely brittle nature and low uniaxial compressivestrength, coupled with a predominately coarse fault brecciacomposition. In contrast, the microstructural mannerof the increasing deformation coupled with higher uniaxialcompressive strength, strain-hardening nature andlow brittleness indicate a transitional interval betweenthe weakly fragmented damage zone and strongly grindedfault core. Moreover, these attributes suggest this unit ismechanically the strongest part of the fault zone. Gougerichcataclasites mark the core zone of the fault, with theirwidespread plastic nature and locally pseudo-ductile microstructure.Strain localization tends to be strongly linkedwith the existence of fault gouge ribbons. The fault zonewith ∼15 m total thickness can be defined as a significantmigration pathway inside the fractured crystalline reservoir.Moreover, as a consequence of the distributed natureof the fault core, it may possibly have a key role in compartmentalisationof the local hydraulic system.
BRAFV600E mutation in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma: a meta-analysis
Authors: Li Fei , Chen Guangqi , Sheng Chunjun , Gusdon Aaron M , Huang Yueye , Lv Zhongwei , Xu Huixiong , Xing Mingzhao , Qu Shen
Published: January 2015

The prognostic value of the BRAFV600E mutation, resulting in poor clinical outcomes of papillary thyroid carcinoma, has been generally confirmed. However, the association of BRAFV600E with aggressive clinical behaviors of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) has not been firmly established in individual studies. We performed this meta-analysis to examine the relationship between BRAFV600E mutation and the clinicopathological features of PTMC. We conducted a systematic search in PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane library for relevant studies. We selected all the studies that reported clinicopathological features of PTMC patients with information available on BRAFV600E mutation status. Nineteen studies involving a total of 3437 patients met these selection criteria and were included in the analyses. The average prevalence of the BRAFV600E mutation was 47.48%, with no significant difference with respect to patient sex (male versus female) and age (younger than 45 years versus 45 years or older). Compared with the WTBRAFgene, the BRAFV600E mutation was associated with tumor multifocality (odds ratio (OR) 1.38; 95% CI, 1.04–1.82), extrathyroidal extension (OR 3.09; 95% CI, 2.24–4.26), lymph node metastases (OR 2.43; 95% CI, 1.28–4.60), and advanced stage (OR 2.39; 95% CI, 1.38–4.15) of PTMC. Thus, our findings from this large meta-analysis definitively demonstrate that BRAFV600E-mutation-positive PTMC are more likely to manifest with aggressive clinicopathological characteristics. In appropriate clinical settings, testing for the BRAFV600E mutation is likely to be useful in assisting the risk stratification and management of PTMC.
A Surprising Role for the Sch9 Protein Kinase in Chromosome Segregation in Candida albicans
Authors: Varshney Neha , Schaekel Alida , Singha Rima , Chakraborty Tanmoy , van Wijlick Lasse , Ernst Joachim F , Sanyal Kaustuv
Published: January 2015

The AGC kinase Sch9 regulates filamentation in Candida albicans. Here, we show that Sch9 binding is most enriched at the centromeres in C. albicans, but not in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Deletion of CaSch9 leads to a 150- to 750-fold increase in chromosome loss. Thus, we report a previously unknown role of Sch9 in chromosome segregation.
THE CYTOKINES SYNTHESIS IN VITRO IN THE TICK-BORNE ENCEPHALITIS VIRUS INFECTED CELLS AND IN THE PRESENCE OF INACTIVATED VACCINE
Authors: Mesentseva M. V. , Аntoshina I. F. , Мorozova O. V.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is severe neuroinfectious disease with involvement of immune mechanisms in pathogenesis. Comparative analysis of synthesis of key cytokines had been performed for the TBE virus (TBEV) infected cells and in the presence of inactivated vaccine against TBE in vitro. Persistent TBEV infection of immortal tissue culture of human larynx cancer cells caused transcription activation of interferons IFNα, IFNγ, IFNλ1, interleukins IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, tumour necrosis factor TNFα as well as one of apoptosis factors Fas. Comparison of transcription and production of cytokines revealed that the TBEV infection resulted in posttranscription Th1 shift of cytokine response. In the presence of inactivated vaccine against TBE based on the same strain Sofjin of the TBEV activation of transcription of cytokines IFNα, IFNλ1, IL-4, IL-10 was also observed as after the TBEV infection that together with an additional stimulation of GM-CSF production might serve as an evidence of Th2 response. Involvement of IFNIII type (IFNλ1) both during persistent infection and after addition of inactivated vaccines was found in the first time. Differences in dynamics of cytokines IL-2, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, TNFα response during the TBEV infection and in the presence of inactivated vaccine are described.
Sustainable site clean-up from megaprojects: lessons from London 2012
Authors: Hou Deyi , Al-Tabbaa Abir , Hellings Jan
Published: January 2015

The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games are considered to have been a great success for the UK. In building the Olympic Park, another great achievement was the clean-up and reuse of a large area of contaminated land. A remediation project of this size would typically take 5 to 15 years to complete, but the project team completed the remediation work in less than 3 years. This study provides an in-depth examination of the remediation practices at the site, mainly from the perspective of sustainable construction. Data were collected from multiple sources, including project files, publications by various government agencies and non-governmental organisations, as well as qualitative interviews with project team members. The paper first presents a review of brownfield redevelopment and sustainable remediation literature. Sustainability initiatives and achievements in the Olympic Park site remediation project are summarised and discussed. These mainly included suitable remediation strategies, recycling and reuse of contaminated soil by using soil washing and innovative in situ remediation of contaminated groundwater through bioremediation. The paper identifies a number of challenges and lessons learned regarding brownfield remediation in megaprojects, which warrant further technological development and appropriate policy actions to address.
Assessment of the degree of heating of lightweight concrete
Authors: Donchev Ted , Petkune Natalja , Kew Hsein , Ibsen Maia-Laura
Published: January 2015

Estimating the fire severity and temperature of structural elements in buildings during fire action is one of the primary factors for assessing their condition after a fire. Some existing traditional methods for assessing this temperature, such as visual inspection, hammer sounding and petrographic analysis, are well established. However, owing to the significant variation of the results it is highly advisable to conduct cross-checking by using parallel approaches. The aim of this paper is to offer initial information about the development of a novel approach, in addition to the traditional methods for estimating the degree of heating of normal and lightweight (lightweight expanded clay aggregate) concrete, which could be beneficial for cross-checking. This approach is based on results from an experimental study concerning the reduction of compressive strength of concrete after high-temperature exposure. Developed analytical correlation between the reduction of strength and the degree of heating is presented by way of parabolic equations. Further verification and consequent testing of the proposed methodology will allow a good estimation of the maximum temperature of different parts of fire damaged buildings to be obtained. It will provide an opportunity to use this information, as an additional tool, to estimate the condition of the remaining structure after a fire, in order to propose appropriate repairing methods.
Safety issues with elderly cyclists and barriers to cycling
Authors: Velasco Lara , Rojo Marta , Gonzalo-Orden Hernán , Diez Jose María
Published: January 2015

The mobility habits of elderly people are observed to arrive at an assessment of their views, as road users, on certain safety issues. A number of activities were organised for the survey in the city of Burgos, Spain that are detailed together with their methodology. This paper reports on the results of two surveys and the provisional conclusions drawn from them. The analysis examined the daily mobility habits of elderly people over 60 years of age, focusing especially on bicycle travel, travel by private vehicle and motorcycle, public transport and on foot. The findings suggest that elderly people prefer segregated bike lanes where they feel safer when travelling by bicycle. From their perspective, coexistence with pedestrians involves major hazards. Moreover, the authors consider that elderly people need to develop a greater awareness of safety elements, especially personal ones. This study is encompassed within the framework of the European Project SaMERU (safer mobility for elderly road users), which aims to reduce significantly major accidents on urban roads in the coming years in all member states of the EU.