bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production of Syngas by Combination of CO2 Reforming and Partial Oxidation of CH4 over Ni/Al2O3 Catalysts in Fixed-bed Reactor
Authors: Zangouei Mohammad , Zarringhalam Moghaddam Abdolsamad , Razeghi Abdolhosein , Omidkhah Mohammad Reza
Published: January 2010

Ni/Al2O3 catalysts were synthesized by sol-gel method with various nickel loadings. Chemical and physical properties of the catalysts were characterized by XRD and TPR techniques. X-ray diffraction patterns showed no peaks due to NiO species. Temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) indicated that the nickel species mainly presented in NiAl2O4 phase. The effect of nickel loading on the catalytic activity of Ni/Al2O3 catalysts, selectivity of products, yield of hydrogen production and H2/CO ratio was investigated in the combination of dry reforming and partial oxidation of methane (DRPOM) reaction. The results indicated that these parameters are greatly dependent on the amount of nickel loading. The results also revealed that the catalyst with 20 percent nickel loading had the highest activity for syngas production after 270 min reaction on stream. The SEM images of spent catalysts showed the formation of filamentous carbon on the 20Ni/Al and 30Ni/Al catalysts.
Effect of Drying Temperature and Soaking Conditions on Wet-Milling Characteristics of Amaranth Grain
Authors: Calzetta Resio Andrea N , Tolaba Marcela P , Suárez Constantino
Published: January 2010

Amaranth grains (Amaranthus cruentus) were air-dried at 40, 70 and 100 ºC and a moisture range from 29.5 to 10.2, dry basis (d.b.). Dried grains were wet-milled at 53.9ºC in the presence of SO2 aqueous solution in order to obtain fractions of starch, protein and fiber. Effect of drying temperature and SO2 concentration (0.01  0.05 w/v %) on fraction yields and protein content of starch were investigated using response surface method (RSM). A factorial design including triplicate of central point was performed. Starch and protein yields decreased as drying temperature increased while fiber yield and protein content in starch fraction shown the opposite behaviour. Protein yield and protein in starch fraction were affected negatively by SO2 concentration. Interaction among studied factors was only appreciable in fiber yield where a synergic effect was observed. The optimum conditions required to maximize starch together with the minimization of protein content in starch fraction included drying temperature of 40°C with amaranth soaking using 0.05 w/v % of SO2. These process conditions lead to 35.1 ± 1.4% of starch yield with a protein content of 1.93 ± 0.015%.
Editor's Letter
Authors: Skidmore Max J.
Published: January 2010

Editor‐in‐Chief, Max J. Skidmore, contextualizes the content of Volume Two, Issue One of Poverty & Public Policy.
Prediction of the sintering shrinkage of glass-alumina functionally graded materials by a BP artificial neural network
Authors: Yu C.L. , Yang H. , Zhao D.C. , Liu C.C. , Zhang T. , Jiang H.T.
Published: January 2010

The shrinkage of the glass-alumina functionally graded materials (G-A FGMs) as a function of sintering temperature, layers, and the alumina content was predicted by a back propagation artificial neural network (BP-ANN). The BP-ANN was composed of an input layer, a hidden layer, and an output layer. 21 sets of experimental data were trained, in which the temperature, layers, and the alumina content as input parameters whereas the shrinkage as the output parameter. 5 sets of experimental data were used to identify the accuracy of the BP-ANN. From the prediction, selection of the hidden layer neurons is essential for the convergence of the BP-ANN. The minimum predicted errors less than 6.6% are obtained with 8 neurons. Comparison of the predicted shrinkage shows that the increase of layers or alumina content is beneficial to the increase of the shrinkage and expansion resistance for the G-A FGMs.
Taxonomy of Fusarium genus: A continuous fight between lumpers and splitters
Authors: Moretti Antonio
Published: January 2010

The genus Fusarium comprises a high number of fungal species that can be plant-pathogenic, causing diseases in several agriculturally important crops including cereals, and also can be harmful for humans and animals since many of them are toxigenic. The identification of mycotoxigenic Fusarium species still remains a most critical issue, given that the number of species recognized in the genus has been constantly changing in the last century in accordance with the different taxonomic systems. Together with the morphological identification, current criteria for Fusarium species identification are also based on biological and phylogenetic species recognition. However these criteria rarely agree to each other. Therefore, it is still a charming scientific challenge to ascertain the taxonomic status of Fusarium species, which in the years have been continuously 'splitted' and 'lumpered' by scientists. The major cases of the taxonomic debates amongst the Fusarium community will be here discussed.
Identification of mycobiota in Serbian slaughterhouses
Authors: Veskovic-Moracanin Slavica , Borovic Branka , Velebit Branko , Raseta Mladen , Milicevic Dragan
Published: January 2010

Mould growth within slaughterhouses is not acceptable and is considered as both economic and aesthetic problem. Aim of this paper was to determine filamentous moulds in two slaughterhouses by investigating air, water, environment area and equipment. There were a total of 100 samples collected. According to S a m s o n (2004), 6 genera were determined among which Penicillium and Aspergillus were the most frequent. Three Penicillium species were identified; the most frequent were P. brevicompactum and P. solitum. The presence of P. verrucosum was not established. The presence of mycotoxigenic moulds, such as P. brevicompactum, indicates possible contamination of environmental area with mycophenolic acid (MPA). Results of investigation indicated that more comprehensive survey should be made in order to get a better insight of mycobiota in slaughterhouses in Serbia.
Medicinal mushroom Ganoderma lucidum in the production of special beer types
Authors: Leskosek-Cukalovic Ida , Despotovic Sasa , Nedovic Viktor , Niksic Miomir
Published: January 2010

Mushrooms like Ganoderma lucidum have been used for thousands of years as a traditional medicine in the Far East. Ganoderma received wide popularity as an eating mushroom with high nutritive value, but even more as medical fungi. It has been used for the treatment of various diseases: hepatitis, hypertension, insomnia, and even cancer. Due to its extraordinary action, it is often called 'Elixir of life', 'Food of gods' and 'Mushroom of universe'. The intracellular and extracellular polysaccharides (b-glucane) inhibit the growth of several types of cancer. Mushroom produces triterpenes of which especially ganoderic acid showed cytotoxicity on primary tumor liver cells, inhibition of histamine release, hepatoprotective effect, stimulation of the immune system functions, inhibition of the aggregation of blood plates, etc. On the other hand, beer as a purely natural beverage obtained in the process of fermentation, contains a number of ingredients which are important for human organism, and in moderate usage has favorable reaction on the general health condition of the body. As such, beer is a very good basis for the development of a number of new products with defined pharmacodynamics influence. In this work, we have investigated the possibilities of using extracts of mushroom Ganoderma lucidum in the production of special beer types. The composition of mushroom, properties of the most important active ingredients, extraction procedures, and sensory characteristics of the beers on the basis of such extracts were determined. The most important parameters of quality and possibility of adjustments using extracts of different medicinal herbs were investigated.
Combined Analyses of 20 Common Obesity Susceptibility Variants
Authors: Sandholt Camilla Helene , Sparsø Thomas , Grarup Niels , Albrechtsen Anders , Almind Katrine , Hansen Lars , Toft Ulla , Jørgensen Torben , Hansen Torben , Pedersen Oluf
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Genome-wide association studies and linkage studies have identified 20 validated genetic variants associated with obesity and/or related phenotypes. The variants are common, and they individually exhibit small-to-modest effect sizes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In this study we investigate the combined effect of these variants and their ability to discriminate between normal weight and overweight/obese individuals. We applied receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves, and estimated the area under the ROC curve (AUC) as a measure of the discriminatory ability. The analyses were performed cross-sectionally in the population-based Inter99 cohort where 1,725 normal weight, 1,519 overweight, and 681 obese individuals were successfully genotyped for all 20 variants.

RESULTS

When combining all variants, the 10% of the study participants who carried more than 22 risk-alleles showed a significant increase in probability of being both overweight with an odds ratio of 2.00 (1.47–2.72), P = 4.0 × 10−5, and obese with an OR of 2.62 (1.76–3.92), P = 6.4 × 10−7, compared with the 10% of the study participants who carried less than 14 risk-alleles. Discrimination ability for overweight and obesity, using the 20 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), was determined to AUCs of 0.53 and 0.58, respectively. When combining SNP data with conventional nongenetic risk factors of obesity, the discrimination ability increased to 0.64 for overweight and 0.69 for obesity. The latter is significantly higher (P < 0.001) than for the nongenetic factors alone (AUC = 0.67).

CONCLUSIONS

The discriminative value of the 20 validated common obesity variants is at present time sparse and too weak for clinical utility, however, they add to increase the discrimination ability of conventional nongenetic risk factors.
Peptide Designed to Elicit Apoptosis in Adipose Tissue Endothelium Reduces Food Intake and Body Weight
Authors: Kim Dong-Hoon , Woods Stephen C. , Seeley Randy J.
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Because adipose tissue is highly vascularized, modifying adipose tissue vasculature may provide a novel method for reducing body fat. A peptide sequence that elicits apoptosis of endothelium in white fat potently reduced body weight. We sought to determine how inhibiting adipose tissue vasculature changes key aspects of energy balance regulation and the neuroendocrine system that maintains energy balance.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Lean and obese mice or rats were treated with proapoptotic peptide for 4 or 27 days. Daily energy intake and expenditure were measured in mice on a low- (LFD) or high-fat diet (HFD) and in rats on a HFD. A conditioned taste aversion test was performed to assess whether proapoptotic peptide produces visceral illness. Hypothalamic neuropeptide Y, agouti-related peptide, and proopiomelanocoritin (POMC) mRNA expression and plasma leptin levels were evaluated.

RESULTS

Proapoptotic peptide completely reversed HFD-induced obesity in mice and reduced body weight in mice and rats on a HFD but not in those on a LFD. Fat loss occurred with no change of energy expenditure but reduced food intake that occurred without signs of illness and despite reduced circulating leptin and reduced hypothalamic POMC gene expression, indicating that the decrease in food intake is independent of the action of leptin.

CONCLUSIONS

These experiments provide compelling evidence for a previously unknown relationship between the status of adipose tissue vasculature and the regulation of food intake.
Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain Dysfunction in Dorsal Root Ganglia of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats and Its Correction by Insulin Treatment
Authors: Chowdhury Subir K. Roy , Zherebitskaya Elena , Smith Darrell R. , Akude Eli , Chattopadhyay Sharmila , Jolivalt Corinne G. , Calcutt Nigel A. , Fernyhough Paul
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Impairments in mitochondrial physiology may play a role in diabetic sensory neuropathy. We tested the hypothesis that mitochondrial dysfunction in sensory neurons is due to abnormal mitochondrial respiratory function.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Rates of oxygen consumption were measured in mitochondria from dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of 12- to- 22-week streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats, diabetic rats treated with insulin, and age-matched controls. Activities and expression of components of mitochondrial complexes and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Rates of coupled respiration with pyruvate + malate (P + M) and with ascorbate + TMPD (Asc + TMPD) in DRG were unchanged after 12 weeks of diabetes. By 22 weeks of diabetes, respiration with P + M was significantly decreased by 31–44% and with Asc + TMPD by 29–39% compared with control. Attenuated mitochondrial respiratory activity of STZ-diabetic rats was significantly improved by insulin that did not correct other indices of diabetes. Activities of mitochondrial complexes I and IV and the Krebs cycle enzyme, citrate synthase, were decreased in mitochondria from DRG of 22-week STZ-diabetic rats compared with control. ROS levels in perikarya of DRG neurons were not altered by diabetes, but ROS generation from mitochondria treated with antimycin A was diminished compared with control. Reduced mitochondrial respiratory function was associated with downregulation of expression of mitochondrial proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

Mitochondrial dysfunction in sensory neurons from type 1 diabetic rats is associated with impaired rates of respiratory activity and occurs without a significant rise in perikaryal ROS.
Serum Soluble Glycoprotein 130 Concentration Is Inversely Related to Insulin Sensitivity in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Nikolajuk Agnieszka , Kowalska Irina , Karczewska-Kupczewska Monika , Adamska Agnieszka , Otziomek Elzbieta , Wolczynski Slawomir , Kinalska Ida , Gorska Maria , Straczkowski Marek
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Insulin resistance might play a role in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The family of glycoprotein 130 (gp130) cytokines could influence insulin action. One of these cytokines is interleukin (IL)-6, which exerts a short-term insulin-sensitizing effect, whereas in a long-term period, it might induce insulin resistance. Some other gp130 activators are supposed to have beneficial metabolic effects. Gp130 is present in the circulation in the soluble form (sgp130), which inhibits intracellular gp130 signaling. The aim of the present study was to estimate the relation between sgp130 and insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied 78 women with PCOS (35 lean and 43 obese) and 34 healthy women (18 lean and 16 obese). The euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp and the measurements of serum sgp130, IL-6, soluble IL-6 receptor (sIL-6R), and sex hormones were performed.

RESULTS

Both obesity and PCOS were characterized by an increased sgp130 (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.0002, respectively). sIL-6R concentration was lower (P = 0.0036) in women with PCOS independently of obesity. Serum sgp130 was negatively correlated with insulin sensitivity when control and PCOS women were analyzed together (r = −0.36, P < 0.0001) and in the PCOS subjects separately (r = −0.34, P = 0.002). In multiple regression analysis, this correlation was significant after adjustment for BMI, waist, percent of body fat, postload glucose and insulin, triglycerides, and high-sensitive C-reactive protein.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum sgp130 is inversely and independently associated with insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS. An increased serum sgp130 in obesity and PCOS suggests an inhibition of intracellular gp130 signaling in insulin-resistant conditions.
C-C Chemokine Receptor 2 (CCR2) Regulates the Hepatic Recruitment of Myeloid Cells That Promote Obesity-Induced Hepatic Steatosis
Authors: Obstfeld Amrom E. , Sugaru Eiji , Thearle Marie , Francisco Anne-Marie , Gayet Constance , Ginsberg Henry N. , Ables Eleanore V. , Ferrante Anthony W.
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Obesity induces a program of systemic inflammation that is implicated in the development of many of its clinical sequelae. Hepatic inflammation is a feature of obesity-induced liver disease, and our previous studies demonstrated reduced hepatic steatosis in obese mice deficient in the C-C chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) that regulates myeloid cell recruitment. This suggests that a myeloid cell population is recruited to the liver in obesity and contributes to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used fluorescence-activated cell sorting to measure hepatic leukocyte populations in genetic and diet forms of murine obesity. We characterized in vivo models that increase and decrease an obesity-regulated CCR2-expressing population of hepatic leukocytes. Finally, using an in vitro co-culture system, we measured the ability of these cells to modulate a hepatocyte program of lipid metabolism.

RESULTS

We demonstrate that obesity activates hepatocyte expression of C-C chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2/MCP-1) leading to hepatic recruitment of CCR2+ myeloid cells that promote hepatosteatosis. The quantity of these cells correlates with body mass and in obese mice represents the second largest immune cell population in the liver. Hepatic expression of CCL2 increases their recruitment and in the presence of dietary fat induces hepatosteatosis. These cells activate hepatic transcription of genes responsible for fatty acid esterification and steatosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity induces hepatic recruitment of a myeloid cell population that promotes hepatocyte lipid storage. These findings demonstrate that recruitment of myeloid cells to metabolic tissues is a common feature of obesity, not limited to adipose tissue.
Cell de-energization prevents plasmid transformation of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae: evidence for the requirement of ATP
Authors: Chaustova Larisa , Miliukienė Valė , Zimkus Aurelijus
Published: January 2010

The dependence of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae transformation on energy requirement was studied. The inhibitory effect of sodium arsenate, used for the depletion of the intracellular ATP pool, was determined. Incubation of the yeast cells in 5 mM sodium arsenate diminished ATP accumulation by 50% and the transformation efficiency decreased by 65%. To discriminate between ATP produced by substrate level phosphorylation and oxidative phosphorylation, the inhibitory analysis of a mutant with defective mitochondria was performed. Sodium fluoride (10–50 mM), as inhibitor of glycolysis, elicited a concentration-dependent decrease in intracellular ATP levels in both parental and mutant cells. The equal transformation efficiency of the mitochondrial mutant and parental strain, in addition to experiments with oligomycin, demonstrated the independence of plasmid transformation on mitochondrial ATP synthesis. This is consistent with our hypothesis that yeast transformation efficiency is associated with ATP produced by substrate level phosphorylation.
Distribution and bioavailability of Cr in central Euboea, Greece
Authors: Megremi Ifigeneia
Published: January 2010

Plants and soils from central Euboea, were analyzed for Cr(totai), Cr(VI), Ni, Mn, Fe and Zn. The range of metal concentrations in soils is typical to those developed on Fe-Ni laterites and ultramafic rocks. Their bioavailability was expressed in terms of concentrations extractable with EDTA and 1 M HNO3, with EDTA having a limited effect on metal recovery. Cr(VI) concentrations in soils evaluated by alkaline digestion solution were lower than phytotoxic levels.

Chromium and Ni — and occasionally Zn — in the majority of plants were near or above toxicity levels. Cr(VI) concentrations in plants were extremely low compared to total chromium concentrations. Cr(total) in ground waters ranged from <1 μg.L−1 to 130 μg.L−1, with almost all chromium present as Cr(VI). With the exception of Cr(total) and in some cases Zn, all elements were below regulatory limits for drinking water. On the basis of Ca, Mg, Cr(total) and Si ground waters were classified into three groups: Group(I) with Cr concentrations less than 1 μg.L−1 from a karstic aquifer; Group(II) with average concentrations of 24 μg.L−1 of Cr and relatively high Si associated with ophiolites; and Group(III) with Cr concentrations of up to 130 μg.L−1, likely due to anthropogenic activity. Group(III) is comparable to ground waters from Assopos basin, characterized by high Cr(VI) concentrations, probably due to industrial actrivities.
Performative Atlases: Memory, Materiality, and (Co-)Authorship
Authors: Dora Veronica della
Published: January 2010

Maps have traditionally been conceptualized as visual representations and studied for what they represent. In the past few years, however, scholars from different disciplines have started to approach them from new perspectives. Broadly speaking, art historians have shown increased interest in their materialities, and geographers and map historians in their social and performative aspects. This article reviews and synthesizes these approaches using the example of the atlas in its earliest and latest incarnations (Abraham Ortelius’ Theatrum Orbis Terrarum and Google Earth). Atlases are conceptualized as mnemonic tools activated through different types of personal encounters that are at once visual and tactile. Focusing on performative encounters between atlases and their users, the article calls for a re-conceptualization of maps as fluid objects that are always in the making. It also invites a reading of the history of cartography as a history of interactions and co-authorships between map-makers and map users.
Varying Display Size and Resolution for Digitizing Vector and Raster Targets: A Study of Digitizing Performance on Multiple-Monitor High-Resolution Displays
Authors: Luebbering Candice R. , Carstensen Laurence W.
Published: January 2010

Despite technological advances, digitizing is still used for digital data creation. Although users work with large, high-resolution data sets, their workspace is often limited to a small, one-monitor viewing window. A low-cost upgrade is to build a multiple-monitor display. Multiple-monitor displays provide an increase in size and resolution, allowing concurrent access to greater context and detail, which may be particularly helpful for digitizing. To investigate the possible benefits of digitizing on multiple-monitor displays, the authors asked 57 participants to perform a map-reading test that included vector and raster target digitizing tasks. Participants took the test on one of three displays: one, four, or nine monitors. The testing program stored participants’ digitized shape files and the viewing area used for digitizing. Although participants were more efficient on the larger displays for other tasks, no statistically significant differences were found for the vector or raster digitizing tasks among display configurations, using goodness-of-fit and shape metrics to compare results. However, larger displays still potentially offer benefits for digitizing. Guideline provision and variability in image interpretation for vector and raster digitizing, respectively, may have been prevailing factors. Additionally, lack of motivation, along with the physical demands and unfamiliarity of large displays, may have hindered the realization of potential benefits.
Determination of grain boundary potentials in ceramics: Combining impedance spectroscopy and inline electron holography
Authors: Koch C. T.
Published: January 2010

The electrostatic potential arising from charge bound at grain boundary cores in ceramics and the accumulation of space charge in their vicinity is in many cases made responsible for the ion blocking or conducting behavior of electroceramics. While interpretation of impedance spectra of nominally undoped and acceptor doped SrTiO3ceramics and bicrystals implies that grain boundaries are positively charged and accompanied by fairly wide regions of negative space charge on both sides, a critical analysis of electron holography data available in the literature yields very narrow potential profiles of the opposite sign. This paper attempts to reconcile this apparent discrepancy by showing that within the Mott–Schottky model, impedance data which implies space charge dominated grain boundary resistivity must be interpreted in terms of even wider space charge regions than generally assumed. A review of electron holography results from grain boundaries in SrTiO3is extended by new results which were obtained by a novel inline electron holography reconstruction algorithm at a near Σ13 grain boundary in nominally undoped SrTiO3. This work is dedicated to the memory of Prof. Rowland M. Cannon.
Using microfabricated devices to determine the fracture strength of materials
Authors: Kahn H. , Ballarini R. , Heuer A. H.
Published: January 2010

Measuring the fracture strength of brittle materials is often difficult, because alignment of the load with the test specimen is critical. Any off-axis misalignment of the load will produce fracture in an undesired mode. This report describes several micrometer-scale devices, in which the “load cell” is fabricated simultaneously with the fracture mechanics specimen, so that precise alignment is assured. The devices utilize the residual stresses contained within the materials, which are deposited onto Si substrates, to create the loading forces and determine the fracture strength. The devices are passive, meaning that the fracture results are obtained immediately upon fabrication, and no external loading is required. Stress concentrations are generated at notches, and the fracture strength is determined by the critical stress required for failure. A variety of devices have been fabricated from materials of interest for microelectromechanical systems devices, including polysilicon, silicon nitride, and aluminum, with both tensile and compressive residual stresses.
Silver-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites as bactericidal and fungicidal materials
Authors: Miranda Miriam , Fernández Adolfo , Díaz Marcos , Esteban-Tejeda Leticia , López-Esteban Sonia , Malpartida Francisco , Torrecillas Ramón , Moya José Serafín
Published: January 2010

Silver-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites containing 1 wt.% of metallic silver have been obtained by a colloidal chemical route and subsequent chemical reduction process. The silver nanoparticles are supported on the hydroxyapatite surface without a high degree of agglomeration. The bactericidal effect against common Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as antifungal activity against yeast have been investigated. The results indicated a high antimicrobial activity for E. coli, M. Luteus and I. Orientalis, so this material can be a promising antimicrobial biomaterial for implant and reconstructive surgery, among other applications.
An Overview of the Processes Shaping Protein Evolution
Authors: Sleator Roy D.
Published: January 2010

From a comparatively small number of protein structural domains a staggering array of structural variants has evolved which has, in turn, facilitated an expanse of functional derivatives. Herein I review the primary mechanisms which have contributed to the vastness of our existing, and expanding, protein repertoires.
Life in the Gut: Microbial responses to Stress in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Louis Petra , O'Byrne Conor P.
Published: January 2010

The complex physical and chemical conditions encountered in the gut present a range of physiological challenges to both the commensal microbiota and to pathogenic microorganisms attempting to colonise the gut. The innate immune system of the host, the host's diet and the microbial population present in the gut all contribute to the chemical complexity of the environment. The huge population of microorganisms in the gut also has a significant impact on the physicochemical properties of the gut environment. By focussing on some of the key physical and chemical stresses encountered by microorganisms in the gut, some of the molecular responses are described. Some promising new experimental approaches are outlined for studying the behaviour of microorganisms and their communities within the gut environment.
Solar Energy: Principles and Possibilities
Authors: Rhodes Christopher J.
Published: January 2010

As the world faces an impending dearth of fossil fuels, most immediately oil, alternative sources of energy must be found. 174 PW worth of energy falls onto the top of the Earth's atmosphere in the form of sunlight which is almost 10,000 times the total amount of energy used by humans on Earth, as taken from all sources, oil, coal, natural gas, nuclear and hydroelectric power combined. If even a fraction of this could be harvested efficiently, the energy crunch could in principle be averted. Various means for garnering energy from the Sun are presented, including photovoltaics (PV), thin film solar cells, quantum dot cells, concentrating PV and thermal solar power stations, which are more efficient in practical terms. Finally the prospects of space based (satellite) solar power are considered. The caveat is that even if the entire world electricity budget could be met using solar energy, the remaining 80% of energy which is not used as electricity but thermal power (heat) still needs to be found in the absence of fossil fuels. Most pressingly, the decline of cheap plentiful crude oil (peak oil) will not find a substitution via solar unless a mainly electrified transportation system is devised and it is debatable that there is sufficient time and conventional energy remaining to accomplish this. The inevitable contraction of transportation will default a deconstruction of the globalised world economy into that of a system of localised communities.
Kinetics and Mechanism of the Permanganate-Induced Oxidative Catalytic Condensation of Sarcosine to a Diketopiperazine
Authors: Khatti Zahra , Davari Mehdi D. , Bahrami Homayoon , Zahedi Mansour
Published: January 2010

The kinetics and mechanism of the permanganate-induced oxidative catalytic condensation reaction of sarcosine, as a secondary amino acid, in buffered medium (pH = 1-3) has been investigated spectrophotometrically. Analysis of the reaction products has shown that, in contrast to oxidation product of primary α-amino acids which is an aldehyde species, a valuable diketopiperazine compound namely 1,4-dimethylpiperazine-2,5-dione has been obtained as the sole product in 95% yield via a cheap, simple, efficient, and novel method. In an analogy to some α-amino acids in concentrated acidic medium, conclusive evidence has demonstrated delayed autocatalytic activity by Mn2+ in this reaction. It has been found that such activity can appear when a certain concentration ratio of Mn2+ to sarcosine is built up in the medium, which we call the “critical ratio”. Decisive results have shown that the magnitude of the latter ratio depends on pH, and the exhibition of autocatalytic activity is affected by the pH and ionic strength of the medium. Regarding the “delayed autocatalytic behaviour” of Mn2+ ions, rate equations have been presented confirming observations for both catalytic and non-catalytic routes. The reaction displays a first order dependence on permanganate ions and sarcosine concentrations, both in the catalytic and non-catalytic pathways, and an apparent first order dependence on Mn2+ ions in the catalytic pathway. The “critical ratio” and “delayed autocatalytic behaviour” concepts have been corroborated by the correspondence of the pseudo-order rate constants of the catalytic and non-catalytic pathways to the Arrhenius and Eyring laws. The activation parameters associated with both pathways have been calculated and discussed. The much higher value of the activation entropy obtained for the catalytic process sows that this factor controls the higher reaction rate relative to that of the non-catalytic pathway. Mechanisms for both catalytic and non-catalytic routes have been proposed which include formation of a bislactam product through a diacylperoxide intermediate.
The Role of Duration of Diabetes in the Development of Diabetic Retinopathy in Young Diabetic Patients in Bangladesh
Authors: Subban SS , Rahman AHS , Sayeed A , Hasin F , Karim R , Ali L
Published: January 2010

The pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy is still unclear. The relative role of duration of diabetes have been thought to be factor associated with diabetic retinopathy. A total number of 91 diabetic subjects, diabetes diagnosed before the age of 30 years, was recruited from the outpatient department, BIRDEM Hospital. Diabetic subjects recruited were sub grouped according to the duration of diabetes and presence of diabetic retinopathy was compared. The incidence of retinopathy was highest among the patients with longest duration of diabetes (p=.004) the earlier the age of onset of diabetes the more is the chance of development of diabetic retinopathy. It may be concluded that the duration of diabetes plays a central role in development of diabetic retinopathy in absence of hypertension, hyperlipiedemia and obesity. DOI:10.3329/jbcps.v27i3.4289 J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2009; 27: 1330138
Familial Hypokalaemic Periodic Paralysis  A Case Report
Authors: Majumder Md Shafayet Hasan
Published: January 2010

Familial hypokalaemic periodic paralysis is a relatively uncommon but potentially life-threatening clinical condition. If recognized and treated appropriately during the episode, patients recover without any clinical sequellae. Reported case presented with recurrent attack of flaccid paralysis of limbs precipitated by carbohydrate meal. Familial periodic paralysis was diagnosed by clinical evidence of flaccid paralysis with positive family history and proved by ECG changes, biochemical findings and hypokalaemia in the absence of other causes of hypokalaemia. The patient improved dramatically with potassium supplementation. Understanding of the illness requires going through recent advances both in electrophysiology and in molecular biology of channelopathies, especially calcium channel structures, functions and genes. Key words: periodic paralysis, hypokalaemia. DOI:10.3329/jbcps.v27i3.4295 J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2009; 27: 166-168
Spectrally-Selective Photonic Structures for PV Applications
Authors: Peters Marius , Goldschmidt Jan Christoph , Löper Philipp , Groß Bernhard , Üpping Johannes , Dimroth Frank , Wehrspohn Ralf  B. , Bläsi Benedikt
Published: January 2010

We review several examples of how spectrally-selective photonic structures may be used to improve solar cell systems. Firstly, we introduce different spectrally-selective structures that are based on interference effects. Examples shown include Rugate filter, edge filter and 3D photonic crystals such as artificial opals. In the second part, we discuss several examples of photovoltaic (PV) concepts that utilize spectral selectivity such as fluorescence collectors, upconversion systems, spectrum splitting concepts and the intermediate reflector concept. The potential of spectrally selective filters in the context of solar cells is discussed.
Alcohol Abuse in Pregnant Women: Effects on the Fetus and Newborn, Mode of Action and Maternal Treatment
Authors: Ornoy Asher , Ergaz Zivanit
Published: January 2010

Offspring of mothers using ethanol during pregnancy are known to suffer from developmental delays and/or a variety of behavioral changes. Ethanol, may affect the developing fetus in a dose dependent manner. With very high repetitive doses there is a 6–10% chance of the fetus developing the fetal alcoholic syndrome manifested by prenatal and postnatal growth deficiency, specific craniofacial dysmorphic features, mental retardation, behavioral changes and a variety of major anomalies. With lower repetitive doses there is a risk of "alcoholic effects" mainly manifested by slight intellectual impairment, growth disturbances and behavioral changes. Binge drinking may impose some danger of slight intellectual deficiency. It is advised to offer maternal abstinence programs prior to pregnancy, but they may also be initiated during pregnancy with accompanying close medical care. The long term intellectual outcome of children born to ethanol dependent mothers is influenced to a large extent by the environment in which the exposed child is raised.
4,6-Diamino-5-(4-methylbenzylidene)pyrimidin-2(5H)-one
Authors: Lobo Gricela , Charris Jaime , Valderrama Margaret , Romero Jesús , Castelli Cristina , Taddei Antonieta
Published: January 2010

A new compound, 4,6-diamino-5-(methylbenzylidene)pyrimidin-2(5H)-one, was synthesized and its IR, 1H NMR,13C NMR and MS spectroscopic data are presented.
Towards the Development of Electrical Biosensors Based on Nanostructured Porous Silicon
Authors: Recio-Sánchez Gonzalo , Torres-Costa Vicente , Manso Miguel , Gallach Darío , López-García Juan , Martín-Palma Raúl J.
Published: January 2010

The typical large specific surface area and high reactivity of nanostructured porous silicon (nanoPS) make this material very suitable for the development of sensors. Moreover, its biocompatibility and biodegradability opens the way to the development of biosensors. As such, in this work the use of nanoPS in the field of electrical biosensing is explored. More specifically, nanoPS-based devices with Al/nanoPS/Al and Au-NiCr/nanoPS/Au-NiCr structures were fabricated for the electrical detection of glucose and Escherichia Coli bacteria at different concentrations. The experimental results show that the current-voltage characteristics of these symmetric metal/nanoPS/metal structures strongly depend on the presence/absence and concentration of species immobilized on the surface.
Spin State Control of the Perovskite Rh/Co Oxides
Authors: Terasaki Ichiro , Shibasaki Soichiro , Yoshida Shin , Kobayashi Wataru
Published: January 2010

We show why and how the spin state of transition-metal ions affects the thermoelectric properties of transition-metal oxides by investigating two perovskite-related oxides. In the A-site ordered cobalt oxide Sr3YCo4O10.5, partial substitution of Ca for Sr acts as chemical pressure, which compresses the unit cell volume to drive the spin state crossover, and concomitantly changes the magnetization and thermopower. In the perovskite rhodium oxide LaRhO3, partial substitution of Sr for La acts as hole-doping, and the resistivity and thermopower decrease systematically with the Sr concentration. The thermopower remains large values at high temperatures (>150 μV/K at 800 K), which makes a remarkable contrast to La1-xSrxCoO3. We associate this with the stability of the low spin state of the Rh3+ ions.
Phenological Characterization of Desert Sky Island Vegetation Communities with Remotely Sensed and Climate Time Series Data
Authors: Van Leeuwen Willem J.D. , Davison Jennifer E. , Casady Grant M. , Marsh Stuart E.
Published: January 2010

Climate change and variability are expected to impact the synchronicity and interactions between the Sonoran Desert and the forested sky islands which represent steep biological and environmental gradients. The main objectives were to examine how well satellite greenness time series data and derived phenological metrics (e.g., season start, peak greenness) can characterize specific vegetation communities across an elevation gradient, and to examine the interactions between climate and phenological metrics for each vegetation community. We found that representative vegetation types (11), varying between desert scrub, mesquite, grassland, mixed oak, juniper and pine, often had unique seasonal and interannual phenological trajectories and spatial patterns. Satellite derived land surface phenometrics (11) for each of the vegetation communities along the cline showed numerous distinct significant relationships in response to temperature (4) and precipitation (7) metrics. Satellite-derived sky island vegetation phenology can help assess and monitor vegetation dynamics and provide unique indicators of climate variability and patterns of change.
Association of Metalloproteinase Gene Polymorphisms with Systemic Sclerosis in the European Caucasian Population
Authors: WIPFF JULIEN , DIEUDE PHILIPPE , AVOUAC JEROME , TIEV KIET , HACHULLA ERIC , CRACOWSKI JEAN-LUC , DIOT ELIZABETH , SIBILIA JEAN , MOUTHON LUC , MEYER OLIVIER , KAHAN ANDRE , BOILEAU CATHERINE , ALLANORE YANNICK
Published: January 2010

Objective.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is classified among the complex genetic disorders and is characterized by massive extracellular matrix deposits. These may be due to overactivation of transforming growth factor ß that may be in part a result of abnormal remodeling of extracellular matrix and microfibrils. Metalloproteinases (MMP) are a family of proteolytic enzymes, and MMP 2, 9, and 14 contribute to the degradation of microfibrils. Our aim was to determine whether polymorphisms of the MMP2, MMP9, and MMP14 genes confer susceptibility to SSc in a large population.

Methods.

A case–control study was performed in 659 SSc patients and 511 healthy matched controls from a European Caucasian population. Six Tag single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of the MMP2 gene and 2 SNP of MMP9 and MMP14 genes were genotyped.

Results.

All SNP were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the control population. There was no association between the MMP2, MMP9, and MMP14 variants we investigated and SSc for allelic and genotype frequencies. No association was observed for the different subphenotypes of SSc patients.

Conclusion.

Our results in a large cohort of European Caucasian SSc patients do not support that MMP2, MMP9, and MMP14 genes are involved in the genetic background of SSc.
Nanoparticulate Radiolabelled Quinolines Detect Amyloid Plaques in Mouse Models of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Roney Celeste A. , Arora Veera , Kulkarni Padmakar V. , Antich Peter P. , Bonte Frederick J.
Published: January 2010

Detecting aggregated amyloid peptides (Aβplaques) presents targets for developing biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Polymeric n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (PBCA) nanoparticles (NPs) were encapsulated with radiolabelled amyloid affinityI125-clioquinol (CQ, 5-chloro-7-iodo-8-hydroxyquinoline) as in vivo probes.I125-CQ-PBCA NPs crossed the BBB (2.3±0.9 ID/g) (P<.05) in the WT mouse (N= 210), compared toI125-CQ (1.0±0.4 ID/g).I125-CQ-PBCA NP brain uptake increased in AD transgenic mice (APP/PS1) versus WT (N= 38;2.54×105±5.31×104 DLU/mm2; versus1.98×105±2.22×104 DLU/mm2) and in APP/PS1/Tau. Brain increases were in mice intracranially injected with aggregated Aβ42peptide (N= 17;7.19×105±1.25×105 DLU/mm2), versus WT (6.07×105±7.47×104 DLU/mm2). Storage phosphor imaging and histopathological staining of the plaques,Fe2+andCu2+, validated results.I125-CQ-PBCA NPs have specificity for Aβin vitro and in vivo and are promising as in vivo SPECT (I123), or PET (I124) amyloid imaging agents.
Adhesives, 1. General
Authors: Onusseit Hermann , Wefringhaus Rainer , Dreezen Gunther , Wichelhaus Jürgen , Schall Joel , Thiele Lothar , van Halteren Ansgar
Published: January 2010

The article contains sections titled:1.Introduction2.Adhesion Theories3.Definitions4.Raw Materials for Adhesives5.Classification of Adhesives6.Individual Adhesive Systems6.1.Adhesives That Set Without a Chemical Reaction (Physical Setting Adhesives)6.1.1.Solvent‐Free Adhesive Systems6.1.2.Adhesive Solutions, Solvents Escape before Bonding6.1.3.Adhesive Solutions, Solvents Evaporate during Bonding6.1.4.Aqueous Dispersions of Polymeric Compounds6.2.Adhesives Setting by Chemical Reaction6.2.1.Adhesives Setting by Polymerization6.2.2.Adhesives Setting by Polyaddition6.2.3.Adhesives Setting by Polycondensation6.2.4.Vulcanizing Adhesives6.2.5.Ultraviolet/Electron Beam (UV/EB) Curing Adhesives6.2.6.Conductive Adhesives7.Bonding Techniques8.Testing of Adhesives9.Economic Aspects
Pigments, Inorganic, 1. General
Authors: Völz Hans G.
Published: January 2010

The article contains sections titled:1.General Aspects2.General Chemical and Physical Properties2.1.Fundamental Aspects2.2.Methods of Determination3.Color Properties3.1.Fundamental Aspects3.2.Color Measurement3.3.Tinting Strength, Lightening Power, and Scattering Power3.4.Hiding Power and Transparency4.Stability Towards Light, Weather, Heat, and Chemicals4.1.Fundamental Aspects4.2.Test Methods4.2.1.Light Stability4.2.2.Weather Resistance4.2.3.Heat Stability4.2.4.Fastness to Chemicals5.Behavior of Pigments in Binders5.1.Fundamental Aspects5.2.Test Methods5.2.1.Pigment ‐ Binder Interaction5.2.2.Dispersing Behavior in Paint Systems5.2.3.Miscellaneous Pigment ‐ Binder Systems
Accuracy of self‐reported diagnosis of hip replacement
Authors: Parimi Neeta , Lane Nancy E. , Bauer Douglas , Hochberg Marc C. , Nevitt Michael C. ,   Study of Osteoporotic Fractures
Published: January 2010

Objective

To examine the accuracy and validity of self‐report of hip replacement for osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

We compared self‐reported hip replacement and the reason for surgery in elderly, white women age ≥65 years from the Study for Osteoporotic Fractures cohort with medical records and pelvis radiographs. Women, followed for an average of 8 years at the fifth clinic visit, were asked about any hip replacements since baseline.

Results

Among 7,421 women attending the fifth clinic visit, 347 reported 387 hip replacements. Radiographs and/or medical records were available for 316 self‐reported hip replacements. Participants accurately reported that hip replacements were for arthritis or fracture, with 94.5% and 97.2% of these self‐reported diagnoses, respectively, confirmed from medical records. However, 1 in 8 self‐reported hip replacements were not attributed by participants to either arthritis or a fracture; of these, medical records indicated that 88% were for OA. Overall, 302 self‐reported hip replacements (95.6%) were confirmed as hip replacements (for agreement with self‐report, κ = 0.95 [95% confidence interval 0.92–0.96]). Under‐reporting of hip replacements compared with hip replacements seen on radiographs was minimal (0.28%).

Conclusion

Elderly women accurately reported hip replacements and whether the surgery was for arthritis or a hip fracture, although a small number of hip replacements for arthritis were not attributed to this diagnosis by the women. Because hip OA and hip fracture have very different determinants, epidemiologic studies that use self‐reported hip replacement as an indicator for the presence of hip OA or as an outcome of hip OA should verify the underlying cause by asking about the reason for surgery.