bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sociopolitical Aspects of Interoperability and Enterprise Architecture in E-Government
Authors: Janssen Marijn
Published: January 2011

Enterprise architecture (EA) has been embraced by governments as an instrument to advance their e-government efforts, create coherence, and improve interoperability. EA is often viewed as a codified understanding covering elements ranging from organization till infrastructure. It is aimed at closing the gap between high-level policies of organizations and low-level implementations of information systems. Important elements of EA are a framework, tools, principles, patterns, basic facilities, and shared services. EA is influenced by the social interdependencies and interactions among stakeholders in which it is embedded. The survey among public organizations shows that current EAs are primarily product oriented, whereas sociopolitical aspects are often neglected. Architecture implementation also involves learning effects and requires effective communication among participants. The author argue that the architecture concept should be reconceptualized and can only be effective if they incorporate relational capabilities, clear responsibilities, and sound governance mechanisms.
Demographic and Contextual Factors Related to Knowledge About Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Carpenter Brian D. , Zoller Sarah M. , Balsis Steve , Otilingam Poorni G. , Gatz Margaret
Published: January 2011

Accurate knowledge about Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is essential to address the public health impact of dementia. This study examined AD knowledge in 794 people who completed the Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale and questions about their background and experience with AD. Whereas overall knowledge was fair, there was significant variability across groups. Knowledge was highest among professionals working in the dementia field, lower for dementia caregivers and older adults, and lowest for senior center staff and undergraduate students. Across groups, respondents knew the most about assessment, treatment, and management of AD and knew the least about risk factors and prevention. Greater knowledge was associated with working in the dementia field, having family members with AD, attending a related class or support group, and exposure to dementia-related information from multiple sources. Understanding where gaps in dementia knowledge exist can guide education initiatives to increase disease awareness and improve supportive services.
Antiviral memory CD8 T-cell differentiation, maintenance, and secondary expansion occur independently of MyD88
Authors: Rahman Adeeb H. , Zhang Ruan , Blosser Christopher D. , Hou Baidong , DeFranco Anthony L. , Maltzman Jonathan S. , Wherry E. John , Turka Laurence A.
Published: January 2011

Inflammatory signals induced during infection regulate T-cell expansion, differentiation, and memory formation. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are inflammatory mediators that allow innate immune cells to recognize and respond to invading pathogens. In addition to their role in innate immune cells, we have found that signals delivered through the TLR adapter protein myeloid differentiation protein 88 (MyD88) play a critical, T cell–intrinsic role in supporting the survival and accumulation of antigen-specific effector cells after acute viral infection. However, the importance of MyD88-dependent signals in regulating the generation and maintenance of memory T cells remained unclear. To address this, we used a novel, inducible knockout system to examine whether MyD88 is required for optimal memory CD8 T-cell generation and responses after lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infection. We show that whereas MyD88 is critical for initial T-cell expansion, it is not required for the subsequent differentiation and stable maintenance of a memory T-cell population. Furthermore, in contrast to naive CD8 T cells, memory CD8 T cells do not depend on MyD88 for their secondary expansion. Our findings clarify the importance of MyD88 during distinct phases of the antiviral T-cell response and establish differential dependence on MyD88 signaling as a novel characteristic that distinguishes naive from memory CD8 T cells.
The relationship between ambient particulate matter and respiratory mortality: a multi-city study in Italy
Authors: Faustini A. , Stafoggia M. , Berti G. , Bisanti L. , Chiusolo M. , Cernigliaro A. , Mallone S. , Primerano R. , Scarnato C. , Simonato L. , Vigotti M.A. , Forastiere F.
Published: January 2011

The association of air pollutants with natural and respiratory mortality has been consistently reported. However, several aspects of the relationship between particulate matter with a 50% cut-off aerodynamic diameter of 10 μm (PM10) and respiratory mortality require further investigation. The aim of the present study was to assess the PM10–respiratory mortality association in Italy and examine potentially susceptible groups.

All deaths from natural (n=276,205) and respiratory (n=19,629) causes among subjects aged ≥35 yrs in 10 northern, central and southern Italian cities in 2001–2005 were included in the study. Pollution data for PM10, nitrogen dioxide and ozone were also obtained. A time-stratified case-crossover analysis was carried out. Different cumulative lags were selected to analyse immediate, delayed, prolonged and best-time effects of air pollution. The shape of the exposure–response curve was analysed. Age, sex, chronic conditions and death site were investigated as potential effect modifiers.

We found a 2.29% (95% CI 1.03–3.58%) increase in respiratory mortality at 0–3 days lag. The increase in respiratory mortality was higher in summer (7.57%). The exposure–response curve had a linear shape without any threshold. Sex and chronic diseases modified the relationship between particular matter (PM) and respiratory mortality.

The effect of PM on respiratory mortality was stronger and more persistent than that on natural mortality. Females and chronic disease sufferers were more likely to die of a respiratory disease caused by air pollution than males and healthy people.
Different inflammatory phenotypes in adults and children with acute asthma
Authors: Wang F. , He X.Y. , Baines K.J. , Gunawardhana L.P. , Simpson J.L. , Li F. , Gibson P.G.
Published: January 2011

Inflammatory phenotypes are recognised in stable adult asthma, but are less well established in childhood and acute asthma. Additionally,Chlamydophila pneumoniaeinfection as a cause of noneosinophilic asthma is controversial. This study examined the prevalence of inflammatory phenotypes and the presence of currentC. pneumoniaeinfection in adults and children with stable and acute asthma.

Adults with stable (n=29) or acute (n=22) asthma, healthy adults (n=11), children with stable (n=49) or acute (n=28) asthma, and healthy children (n=9) underwent clinical assessment and sputum induction. Sputum was assessed for inflammatory cells, and DNA was extracted from sputum cell suspensions and supernatants forC. pneumoniaedetection using real-time PCR.

The asthma phenotype was predominantly eosinophilic in children with acute asthma (50%) but neutrophilic in adults with acute asthma (82%). Paucigranulocytic asthma was the most common phenotype in both adults and children with stable asthma.C. pneumoniaewas not detected in 99% of samples.

The pattern of inflammatory phenotypes differs between adults and children, with eosinophilic inflammation being more prevalent in both acute and stable childhood asthma, and neutrophilic inflammation being the dominant pattern of acute asthma in adults. The aetiology of neutrophilic asthma is unknown and is not explained by the presence of current activeC. pneumoniaeinfection.
The role of matrix metalloproteinases in cystic fibrosis lung disease
Authors: Gaggar A. , Hector A. , Bratcher P.E. , Mall M.A. , Griese M. , Hartl D.
Published: January 2011

Significant airway remodelling is a major component of the increased morbidity and mortality observed in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. These airways feature ongoing leukocytic inflammation and unrelenting bacterial infection. In contrast to acute bacterial pneumonia, CF infection is not cleared efficiently and the ensuing inflammatory response causes tissue damage. This structural damage is mainly a result of free proteolytic activity released by infiltrated neutrophils and macrophages. Major proteases in this disease are serine and matrix metalloproteases (MMPs). While the role of serine proteases, such as elastase, has been characterised in detail, there is emerging evidence that MMPs could play a key role in the pathogenesis of CF lung disease. This review summarises studies linking MMPs with CF lung disease and discusses the potential value of MMPs as future therapeutic targets in CF and other chronic lung diseases.
Cancer Portal Project: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Cancer Care Among Hispanic Patients
Authors: Gany Francesca , Ramirez Julia , Nierodzick Mary Lynn , McNish Thelma , Lobach Iryna , Leng Jennifer
Published: January 2011

Most patients in this study reported that financial, social, and logistical support would help them attend their appointments for cancer care and treatment. Further multidisciplinary interventions should be evaluated to address social and economic determinants in cancer care for this population.
Perspectives on Adherence and Persistence With Oral Medications for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Hohneker John , Shah-Mehta Shilpa , Brandt Patricia S.
Published: January 2011

Ensuring persistence, continuing treatment for the prescribed duration, and adherence—taking medication as prescribed—have been challenges for management of patients with oral cancer and for health care cost containment in real-world settings.
Hexameric architecture of CstF supported by CstF-50 homodimerization domain structure
Authors: Moreno-Morcillo María , Minvielle-Sébastia Lionel , Mackereth Cameron , Fribourg Sébastien
Published: January 2011

The Cleavage stimulation Factor (CstF) complex is composed of three subunits and is essential for pre-mRNA 3′-end processing. CstF recognizes U and G/U-rich cis-acting RNA sequence elements and helps stabilize the Cleavage and Polyadenylation Specificity Factor (CPSF) at the polyadenylation site as required for productive RNA cleavage. Here, we describe the crystal structure of the N-terminal domain of Drosophila CstF-50 subunit. It forms a compact homodimer that exposes two geometrically opposite, identical, and conserved surfaces that may serve as binding platform. Together with previous data on the structure of CstF-77, homodimerization of CstF-50 N-terminal domain supports the model in which the functional state of CstF is a heterohexamer.
A Compact, Pulsed Infrared Laser-Excited Photothermal Deflection Spectrometer
Authors: Dada Oluwatosin O. , Bialkowski Stephen E.
Published: January 2011

A prototype small photothermal deflection apparatus was constructed on a laboratory bench. Not including excitation laser, data collection computer, and gas pumps, the apparatus fits on a bench space with a footprint of about 10 cm × 10 cm. The apparatus lends itself to miniaturization in future assemblies. The apparatus was tested relative to the conventional laboratory-scale photothermal apparatus. Digital filtering procedures developed in this laboratory were used to collect and analyze the data. Numerical simulation of photothermal signal is performed to accurately predict the heat flow process as sample volumes are scaled down. The results show that increased sensitivity is possible with small apparatus configurations. The prototype apparatus also exhibits high linear response with pulsed irradiance for linear absorbers. Future improvements could include miniaturization with robust configuration that will allow for portable use in trace analysis monitoring of atmospheric pollutants.
Quantification of Iron (Fe) in Lithium Niobate by Optical Absorption
Authors: Ciampolillo Maria Vittoria , Zaltron Annamaria , Bazzan Marco , Argiolas Nicola , Sada Cinzia
Published: January 2011

A quantitative method, based solely on optical absorption, to determine the total iron (Fe) concentration in Fe : LiNbO3 is proposed. Absorption spectra of several samples doped by thermal diffusion with different concentrations and different [Fe2+]/[Fe3+] ratios show an isosbestic point at 342 nm. At this wavelength the absorption is proportional to the total Fe concentration and does not depend on the oxidation state. Thanks to the large number of samples covering a wide range of concentrations, in this work it was possible to estimate an effective absorption cross-section relating the absorbance of a given sample to its iron content. The main advantage of the proposed method is in its simplicity and the fact that the result does not depend on the reduction degree of the sample. As it is known that the absorbance of Fe : LN at another wavelength (532 nm) gives information on the amount of Fe2+ present in the sample, our method makes it possible to characterize both the total Fe amount and its reduction degree within a single optical absorption measurement.
Spectroscopic and X-Ray Diffraction Study of Structural Disorder in Cryomilled and Amorphous Griseofulvin
Authors: Żarów Anna , Zhou Bo , Wang Xianqin , Pinal Rodolfo , Iqbal Zafar
Published: January 2011

Structural disorder induced by cryogenic milling and by heating to the amorphous phase in the active pharmaceutical ingredient Griseofulvin has been studied using Raman spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), and fluorescence spectroscopy. A broad, exciting-frequency-independent scattering background in the Raman spectra and changes in intensities and splitting of some of the Raman lines due to lattice and molecular modes have been observed. In the cryomilled samples this strong background is deconvoluted into two components: one due to lattice disorder induced by cryomilling and the other due to Mie scattering from nanosized crystallites. A single-component background scattering attributed to lattice disorder is seen in the Raman spectrum of the amorphous sample. Fluorescence measurements showed an intrinsic fluorescence signal in as-received Griseofulvin that does not correspond to the inelastic background in the Raman spectra and, moreover, decreases in intensity upon cryomilling, thus excluding an assignment of the Raman background intensity to impurity- or molecular-defect-induced fluorescence. Wide-angle XRPD measurements on cryomilled Griseofulvin shows a broad two-component background consistent with the background-scattering component in the Raman data associated with lattice disorder, but at longer correlation lengths. Persistence of this disorder to even longer lengths is evident in small-angle synchrotron XRPD data on micronized Griseofulvin taken as a function of temperature from the crystalline to the amorphous phase.
Health Inequalities in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Lower Healthy Life Expectancy in Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Areas
Authors: Szwarcwald Célia Landmann , Corrêa da Mota Jurema , Damacena Giseli Nogueira , Sardinha Pereira Tatiana Guimarães
Published: January 2011

Objectives. We investigated deprivation and inequalities in life expectancy and healthy life expectancy by location in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Methods. We conducted a health survey of 576 adults in 2006. Census tracts were stratified by income level and categorization as a slum. We determined health status by degree of functional limitation, according to the approach proposed by the World Health Organization. We calculated healthy life expectancies by Sullivan's method with abridged life table.

Results. We found the worst indicators in the slum stratum. The life expectancy at birth of men living in the richest parts of the city was 12.8 years longer than that of men living in deprived areas. For both men and women older than age 65 years, healthy life expectancy was more than twice as high in the richest sector as in the slum sector.

Conclusions. Our analysis detailed the excess burden of poor health experienced by disadvantaged populations of Rio de Janeiro. Policy efforts are needed to reduce social inequalities in health in this city, especially among the elderly.
Integrated Behavioral Intervention to Improve HIV/AIDS Treatment Adherence and Reduce HIV Transmission
Authors: Kalichman Seth C. , Cherry Chauncey , Kalichman Moira O. , Amaral Christina M. , White Denise , Pope Howard , Swetzes Connie , Eaton Lisa , Macy Rene , Cain Demetria
Published: January 2011

Objectives. We conducted a randomized clinical trial to test an integrated behavioral intervention designed to enhance using HIV treatment as prevention by improving medication adherence, reducing risks for other sexually transmitted infections, and minimizing risk compensation beliefs.

Methods. Individuals living with HIV/AIDS (n = 436) participated in a randomized clinical trial testing an intensive behavioral intervention aimed at reducing HIV transmission risks compared with an attention control condition. We used unannounced pill counts to monitor antiretroviral therapy adherence and computerized interviews to measure risk behaviors.

Results. The integrated transmission risk reduction intervention demonstrated increased antiretroviral therapy adherence and less unprotected intercourse with nonseroconcordant partners at 3- and 6-month follow-ups as well as fewer new sexually transmitted infections diagnosed over the 9-month follow-up period (adjusted odds ratio = 3.0; P < .05; 95% confidence interval = 1.01, 9.04). The integrated intervention also reduced behavioral risk compensation beliefs.

Conclusions. A theory-based integrated behavioral intervention can improve HIV treatment adherence and reduce HIV transmission risks. HIV treatment as prevention should be bundled with behavioral interventions to maximize effectiveness.
The Effect of an Early Education Program on Adult Health: The Carolina Abecedarian Project Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Muennig Peter , Robertson Dylan , Johnson Gretchen , Campbell Frances , Pungello Elizabeth P. , Neidell Matthew
Published: January 2011

Objectives. We explored whether a successful randomized controlled trial of early education, the Carolina Abecedarian Project (ABC), which enrolled infants from 1972 to 1977 at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, improved health outcomes and behaviors by 21 years of age.

Methods. ABC randomized 111 infants to receive an intensive early education program or nutritional supplements and parental counseling alone; participants have been followed to the present day. We examined the effect of ABC on health outcomes and behavioral risk factors when participants were aged 21 years, and then explored the mediators of this relationship.

Results. Relative to the control group, the ABC treatment group was previously found to have improved cognition and educational attainment. We found that the intervention also improved heath (P = .05) and health behaviors (P = .03) when participants were aged 21 years. These improvements in behaviors were not mediated by IQ, math and reading scores at 15 years of age, educational attainment, or health insurance.

Conclusions. Effective early education programs may improve health and reduce risky health behaviors in adulthood.
Do major neogene hiatuses in the Ciscaucasian semi-enclosed basin (Eastern Paratethys, southwestern Russia) record eustatic falls?
Authors: Ruban Dmitry , Rogerson Michael , Pedley Martyn
Published: January 2011

Hiatuses in semi-enclosed basins can be caused by either eustatic falls or
local tectonic uplifts. The Ciscaucasian basin is located in the south of
European Russia. In the Neogene, it belonged to the Eastern Paratethys
domain. On the basis of available stratigraphic data, four major hiatuses are
traced in this basin as erosional surfaces or lengthy sedimentation breaks,
namely the Tarkhanian, Middle/Upper Sarmatian, Sarmatian/Maeotian, and
Kimmerian hiatuses. They are documented in most of the areas of the study
basin. The three earlier hiatuses mark short-term and nearly isochronous,
basinwide sedimentation breaks, whereas the latter hiatus is diachronous,
embracing more than 2 myr. All reported hiatuses record the eustatic falls.
Consequently, we argue that eustatic processes controlled sedimentation in
the Ciscaucasian basin throughout the entire Neogene. This means the basin
was connected to the open ocean throughout this period, with important
consequences for our understanding of watermass history in the Mediterranean
and Paratethyan basins further west and south.
The age of the Dinaride Ophiolite Belt: Derived olistostrome melange at the northern slope of Moracka Kapa (Montenegro)
Authors: Ercegovac Marko
Published: January 2011

This paper presents the first results of a palynological investigation of the
Dinaride Ophiolite Belt - derived olistostrome melange at the northern slope
of Moracka Kapa (Montenegro). The analysis of microfloral association
provided a reconstruction of the Late Jurassic sedimentation conditions and
depositional environment in the Moraca Kapa Unit. The samples (8) collected
from the different parts of ophiolite matrix yielded palynomorph assemblages
(fossil spores, pollen grains and dinoflagellates) of the Upper Jurassic
age. The uppermost part of the ophiolite suite on the presented palynomorphs
could also indicate the lowermost Lower Cretaceous. These palynological
results provide a very interesting framework of these widespread, but poorly
stratigraphically understood sediments. The paleoecological results suggest
humid and subtropical conditions in the hinterland.
In vitro antifungal activity of propolis samples of Czech and Slovak origin
Authors: Buchta Vladimír , Černý Jan , Opletalová Veronika
Published: January 2011

Propolis has been used in traditional folk medicine for ages owing to a number of biological effects. Four propolis samples of Czech and one of Slovak origin were extracted using Soxhlet apparatus and analysed by thin-layer chromatography. Raw propolis samples and their extracts were tested by microdilution broth method to determine minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) in eight strains of human pathogenic fungi. Raw propolis samples showed a lower in vitro antifungal activity than their extracts. In general, the petroleum ether extracts exhibited the highest in vitro antifungal activity (MIC range of 16–64 µg/ml). The content of flavonoids in the samples varied according to region. The highest amount of flavonoids was found in sample A that originated from Broumov (4%). The most susceptible to the propolis extracts were Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Candida albicans. The propolis samples of Czech and Slovak origin and their extracts showed a considerable in vitro antifungal effect which was associated especially with nonpolar petroleum ether and toluene extracts. There was only a partial correlation between flavonoids content and in vitro antifungal activity.
Lumbar spinal stenosis in elderly patients: is a unilateral microsurgical approach sufficient for decompression?
Authors: Morgalla Matthias Hubert , Noak Nicola , Merkle Martin , Tatagiba Marcos Soares
Published: January 2011

Object

For the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis, less invasive procedures, which preserve maximal bony and ligamentous structures, have been recommended to reduce associated morbidity. The authors examined the outcome after decompression of spinal stenosis in the elderly by comparing 3 different surgical approaches. Their focus was whether a unilateral microsurgical decompression provided sufficient outcomes in the elderly population.

Methods

The authors investigated 108 elderly patients (age ≥ 60 years) with lumbar spinal stenosis (mean age 71 years [range 60–93 years]) who underwent surgery between 2004 and June 2006 at the authors' institution. Three different modes of decompression were analyzed in this study: a unilateral partial hemilaminectomy, a hemilaminectomy, and a laminectomy. The outcome was assessed 12 months postoperatively using the Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale and the Hannover Functional Back Pain Questionnaire.

Results

The authors performed a unilateral partial hemilaminectomy in 53 patients (49%). Patients who underwent unilateral partial hemilaminectomies achieved favorable results of at least 80% as assessed using the Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale and Hannover Functional Back Pain Questionnaire. Hemilaminectomies were performed in 45 patients (41.7%), and laminectomies were performed in 10 patients (9.3%). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the various techniques regarding the postoperative results (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Laminectomies did not show any advantage when compared with unilateral transmedian approaches. A unilateral partial hemilaminectomy combined with a transmedian decompression sufficiently treated the stenosis. This method seemed advantageous in minimizing the procedure and associated morbidity in this elderly population. Further investigations with long-term results (> 5 years) are still necessary.
Theta-gamma dysrhythmia and auditory phantom perception
Authors: De Ridder Dirk , van der Loo Elsa , Vanneste Sven , Gais Steffen , Plazier Mark , Kovacs Silvia , Sunaert Stefan , Menovsky Tomas , van de Heyning Paul
Published: January 2011

Tinnitus is considered an auditory phantom percept analogous to phantom pain. Thalamocortical dysrhythmia has been proposed as a possible pathophysiological mechanism for both tinnitus and pain. Thalamocortical dysrhythmia refers to a persistent pathological resting state theta-gamma coupling that is spatially localized at an area where normally alpha oscillations predominate. Auditory cortex stimulation via implanted electrodes has been developed to treat tinnitus, targeting an area of activation on functional MR imaging elicited by tinnitus-matched sound presentation. The authors describe a case in which clinical improvement was correlated with changes in intracranial recordings. Maximal tinnitus suppression was obtained by current delivery exactly at the blood oxygen level–dependent activation hotspot, which colocalizes with increased gamma and theta activity, in contrast to the other electrode poles, which demonstrated a normal alpha peak. These spectral changes normalized when stimulation induced tinnitus suppression, both on electrode and source-localized electroencephalography recordings. These data suggest that thetagamma coupling as proposed by the thalamocortical dysrhythmia model might be causally related to a conscious auditory phantom percept.
Semiquantitative determination of chromium content of river bed soil of Buriganga River at different locations
Authors: Sadat ME , Haider AFMY , Abedin KM , Wahadoszamen M
Published: January 2011

Using the technique of Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy, the chromium content of river bed sediment of the Buriganga River is determined at various locations. Hazardous element, chromium is found in addition to other elements such as calcium, magnesium, titanium, sodium etc. The source of this chromium is most likely to be the effluent discharge from the tanneries located nearby. Semi quantitative analyses showed the relative abundances of Cr, Mg, and Ca in the river bed sediment at Kamrangir Char and Shoari Ghat locations are in the ratios of 1:9:23 and 1:11:17, respectively. Key words: Chromium content; River bed soil; Buriganga river DOI: 10.3329/jbas.v34i2.6856Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 34, No. 2, 123-131, 2010
Univariate Cubic L1 Interpolating Splines: Spline Functional, Window Size and Analysis-based Algorithm
Authors: Yu Lu , Jin Qingwei , Lavery John E. , Fang Shu-Cherng
Published: January 2011

We compare univariate L1 interpolating splines calculated on 5-point windows, on 7-point windows and on global data sets using four different spline functionals, namely, ones based on the second derivative, the first derivative, the function value and the antiderivative. Computational results indicate that second-derivative-based 5-point-window L1 splines preserve shape as well as or better than the other types of L1 splines. To calculate second-derivative-based 5-point-window L1 splines, we introduce an analysis-based, parallelizable algorithm. This algorithm is orders of magnitude faster than the previously widely used primal affine algorithm.
Cancer Stem Cells and Pediatric Solid Tumors
Authors: Friedman Gregory K. , Yancey Gillespie G.
Published: January 2011

Recently, a subpopulation of cells, termed tumor-initiating cells or tumor stem cells (TSC), has been identified in many different types of solid tumors. These TSC, which are typically more resistant to chemotherapy and radiation compared to other tumor cells, have properties similar to normal stem cells including multipotency and the ability to self-renew, proliferate, and maintain the neoplastic clone. Much of the research on TSC has focused on adult cancers. With considerable differences in tumor biology between adult and pediatric cancers, there may be significant differences in the presence, function and behavior of TSC in pediatric malignancies. We discuss what is currently known about pediatric solid TSC with specific focus on TSC markers, tumor microenvironment, signaling pathways, therapeutic resistance and potential future therapies to target pediatric TSC.
Electrostatic Discharge Current Linear Approach and Circuit Design Method
Authors: Katsivelis Pavlos K. , Fotis Georgios P. , Gonos Ioannis F. , Koussiouris Tryfon G. , Stathopulos Ioannis A.
Published: January 2011

The Electrostatic Discharge phenomenon is a great threat to all electronic devices and ICs. An electric charge passing rapidly from a charged body to another can seriously harm the last one. However, there is a lack in a linear mathematical approach which will make it possible to design a circuit capable of producing such a sophisticated current waveform. The commonly accepted Electrostatic Discharge current waveform is the one set by the IEC 61000-4-2. However, the over-simplified circuit included in the same standard is incapable of producing such a waveform. Treating the Electrostatic Discharge current waveform of the IEC 61000-4-2 as reference, an approximation method, based on Prony’s method, is developed and applied in order to obtain a linear system’s response. Considering a known input, a method to design a circuit, able to generate this ESD current waveform in presented. The circuit synthesis assumes ideal active elements. A simulation is carried out using the PSpice software.
Cycles of Conditional Cooperation in a Real-Time Voluntary Contribution Mechanism
Authors: Levati M. Vittoria , Zultan Ro’i
Published: January 2011

This paper provides a new way to identify conditional cooperation in a real-time version of the standard voluntary contribution mechanism. We define contribution cycles as the number of contributors a player waits for before committing to a further contribution, and use a permutation test on contribution cycles to assign a measure of conditional cooperation to each group play. The validity of the measures is tested in an experiment. We find that roughly 20% of the plays exhibit dynamics of conditional cooperation. Moreover, notwithstanding a decline in contributions, conditional cooperation is found to be stable over time.
Study of OH● Radicals in Human Serum Blood of Healthy Individuals and Those with Pathological Schizophrenia
Authors: Korotkova Elena I. , Misini Bashkim , Dorozhko Elena V. , Bukkel Mariya V. , Plotnikov Evgeniy V. , Linert Wolfgang
Published: January 2011

The human body is constantly under attack from free radicals that occur as part of normal cell metabolism, and by exposure to environmental factors such as UV light, cigarette smoke, environmental pollutants and gamma radiation. The resulting “Reactive Oxygen Species” (ROS) circulate freely in the body with access to all organs and tissues, which can have serious repercussions throughout the body. The body possesses a number of mechanisms both to control the production of ROS and to cope with free radicals in order to limit or repair damage to tissues. Overproduction of ROS or insufficient defense mechanisms leads to a dangerous disbalance in the organism. Thereby several pathomechanisms implicated in over 100 human diseases, e.g., cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes mellitus, physiological disease, aging, etc., can be induced. Thus, a detailed investigation on the quantity of oxygen radicals, such as hydroxyl radicals (OH●) in human serum blood, and its possible correlation with antioxidant therapy effects, is highly topical. The subject of this study was the influence of schizophrenia on the amount of OH● in human serum blood. The radicals were detected by fluorimetry, using terephthalic acid as a chemical trap. For all experiments the serum blood of healthy people was used as a control group.
Exploring the Immunoproteome for Ovarian Cancer Biomarker Discovery
Authors: Martin Karina , Ricciardelli Carmela , Hoffmann Peter , Oehler Martin K.
Published: January 2011

Most scientific efforts towards early detection of ovarian cancer are commonly focused on the discovery of tumour-associated antigens (TAA). Autologous antibodies against TAA, however, may serve as more sensitive diagnostic markers. They circulate in the blood before TAA and are usually more abundant than the TAAs themselves as a result of amplification through the humoral immune response. Accumulating evidence also suggests that a humoral response already exists during malignant transformation when aberrant gene expression is translated into premalignant cellular changes. This article reviews the current knowledge about autoantibodies against TAA in ovarian cancer and presents current immunoproteomic approaches for their detection.
New Information Measures for the Generalized Normal Distribution
Authors: Kitsos Christos P. , Toulias Thomas L.
Published: January 2011

We introduce a three-parameter generalized normal distribution, which belongs to the Kotz type distribution family, to study the generalized entropy type measures of information. For this generalized normal, the Kullback-Leibler information is evaluated, which extends the well known result for the normal distribution, and plays an important role for the introduced generalized information measure. These generalized entropy type measures of information are also evaluated and presented.
Thermotropic Ionic Liquid Crystals
Authors: Axenov Kirill V. , Laschat Sabine
Published: January 2011

The last five years’ achievements in the synthesis and investigation of thermotropic ionic liquid crystals are reviewed. The present review describes the mesomorphic properties displayed by organic, as well as metal-containing ionic mesogens. In addition, a short overview on the ionic polymer and self-assembled liquid crystals is given. Potential and actual applications of ionic mesogens are also discussed.
Monocyclic Phenolic Acids; Hydroxy- and Polyhydroxybenzoic Acids: Occurrence and Recent Bioactivity Studies
Authors: Khadem Shahriar , Marles Robin J.
Published: January 2011

Among the wide diversity of naturally occurring phenolic acids, at least 30 hydroxy- and polyhydroxybenzoic acids have been reported in the last 10 years to have biological activities. The chemical structures, natural occurrence throughout the plant, algal, bacterial, fungal and animal kingdoms, and recently described bioactivities of these phenolic and polyphenolic acids are reviewed to illustrate their wide distribution, biological and ecological importance, and potential as new leads for the development of pharmaceutical and agricultural products to improve human health and nutrition.
Phytochemical and Cytotoxic Investigations of Alpinia mutica Rhizomes
Authors: Malek Sri Nurestri Abdul , Phang Chung Weng , Ibrahim Halijah , Abdul Wahab Norhanom , Sim Kae Shin
Published: January 2011

The methanol and fractionated extracts (hexane, ethyl acetate and water) of Alpinia mutica (Zingiberaceae) rhizomes were investigated for their cytotoxic effect against six human carcinoma cell lines, namely KB, MCF7, A549, Caski, HCT116, HT29 and non-human fibroblast cell line (MRC 5) using an in vitro cytotoxicity assay. The ethyl acetate extract possessed high inhibitory effect against KB, MCF7 and Caski cells (IC50 values of 9.4, 19.7 and 19.8 µg/mL, respectively). Flavokawin B (1), 5,6-dehydrokawain (2), pinostrobin chalcone (3) and alpinetin (4), isolated from the active ethyl acetate extract were also evaluated for their cytotoxic activity. Of these, pinostrobin chalcone (3) and alpinetin (4) were isolated from this plant for the first time. Pinostrobin chalcone (3) displayed very remarkable cytotoxic activity against the tested human cancer cells, such as KB, MCF7 and Caski cells (IC50 values of 6.2, 7.3 and 7.7 µg/mL, respectively). This is the first report of the cytotoxic activity of Alpinia mutica.
Impact of Oral Fast Release Amantadine on Movement Performance in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Muhlack Siegfried , Müsch Patricia , Konietzka Sandra , Woitalla Dirk , Przuntek Horst , Müller Thomas
Published: January 2011

Application of oral fast release amantadine and levodopa may induce an improvement of motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). The objective of this trial was to investigate the clinical efficacy of a fast release amantadine sulfate formulation on simple and complex movement performance and putative relations to the pharmacokinetic behavior in PD patients. We challenged two cohorts of 12 PD patients, who were taken off their regular antiparkinsonian treatment for at least 12 hours, with oral 300 mg amantadine sulfate. We scored motor symptoms and performed instrumental tasks, which ask for performance of simple or complex motion series under cued conditions. Motor symptoms and performance of complex movements significantly improved in contrast to the carrying-out of simple motions. N-methyl-D-aspartic acid antagonistic and dopaminomimetic amantadine also influences altered higher predominant prefrontal cognitive functions. Therefore, performance of complex motion series improved, whereas carrying-out of simple repetitive movements is more associated to the striatal dopamine dependent basal ganglia function.
A Review of Accelerometry-Based Wearable Motion Detectors for Physical Activity Monitoring
Authors: Yang Che-Chang , Hsu Yeh-Liang
Published: January 2011

Characteristics of physical activity are indicative of one’s mobility level, latent chronic diseases and aging process. Accelerometers have been widely accepted as useful and practical sensors for wearable devices to measure and assess physical activity. This paper reviews the development of wearable accelerometry-based motion detectors. The principle of accelerometry measurement, sensor properties and sensor placements are first introduced. Various research using accelerometry-based wearable motion detectors for physical activity monitoring and assessment, including posture and movement classification, estimation of energy expenditure, fall detection and balance control evaluation, are also reviewed. Finally this paper reviews and compares existing commercial products to provide a comprehensive outlook of current development status and possible emerging technologies.
Characteristics of Ambient Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Measured in Shanghai, China
Authors: Cai Chang-Jie , Geng Fu-Hai , Tie Xue-Xi , Yu Qiong , Peng Li , Zhou Guang-Qiang
Published: January 2011

To better understand the characteristics of ambient abundance of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Shanghai, one of the biggest metropolis of China, VOCs were measured with a gas chromatography system equipped with a mass-selective detector (GC/MSD) from July 2006 to February 2010. An intensive measurement campaign was conducted (eight samples per day with a 3 hour interval) during May 2009. The comparison of ambient VOCs collected in different regions of Shanghai shows that the concentrations are slightly higher in the busy commercial area (28.9 ppbv at Xujiaui) than in the urban administrative area (24.3 ppbv at Pudong). However, during the intensive measurement period, the concentrations in the large steel industrial area (28.7 ppbv at Baoshan) were much higher than in the urban administrative area (18 ppbv at Pudong), especially for alkanes, alkenes, and toluene. The seasonal variations of ambient VOC concentrations measured at the Xujiahui sampling site indicate that the VOC concentrations are significantly affected by meteorological conditions (such as wind direction and precipitation). In addition, although alkanes are the most abundant VOCs at the Xujiahui measurement site, the most important VOCs contributing to ozone formation potential (OFP) are aromatics, accounting for 57% of the total OFP. The diurnal variations of VOC concentrations show that VOC concentrations are higher on weekdays than in weekends at the Xujiahui sampling site, suggesting that traffic condition and human activities have important impacts on VOC emissions in Shanghai. The evidence also shows that the major sources of isoprene are mainly resulted from gasoline evaporation at a particular time (06:00–09:00) in the busy commercial area. The results gained from this study provide useful information for better understanding the characteristics of ambient VOCs and the sources of VOCs in Shanghai.
Detection of Single Molecules Illuminated by a Light-Emitting Diode
Authors: Gerhardt Ilja , Mai Lijian , Lamas-Linares Antìa , Kurtsiefer Christian
Published: January 2011

Optical detection and spectroscopy of single molecules has become an indispensable tool in biological imaging and sensing. Its success is based on fluorescence of organic dye molecules under carefully engineered laser illumination. In this paper we demonstrate optical detection of single molecules on a wide-field microscope with an illumination based on a commercially available, green light-emitting diode. The results are directly compared with laser illumination in the same experimental configuration. The setup and the limiting factors, such as light transfer to the sample, spectral filtering and the resulting signal-to-noise ratio are discussed. A theoretical and an experimental approach to estimate these parameters are presented. The results can be adapted to other single emitter and illumination schemes.
On the Importance of Clar Structures of Polybenzenoid Hydrocarbons as Revealed by the π-Contribution to the Electron Localization Function
Authors: Zhu Jun , Dahlstrand Christian , Smith Joshua R. , Villaume Sébastien , Ottosson Henrik
Published: January 2011

The degree of p-electron (de)localization and aromaticity of a series of polybenzenoid hydrocarbons (PBHs) has been analyzed through the π-contribution to the electron localization function (ELFπ), calculated at the B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) hybrid density functional theory level. The extent of p-electron delocalization in the various hexagons of a PBH was determined through analysis of the bifurcation values of the ELFp basins (BV(ELFp)), the spans in the bifurcation values in each hexagon (ΔBV(ELFπ)), and the ring-closure bifurcation values of the ELFπ (RCBV(ELFπ)). These computed results were compared to the qualitative description of local aromaticities of the different hexagons in terms of Clar structures with p-sextets. Benzene, [18]annulene, and thirty two PBHs were analyzed at their equilibrium geometries, and benzene and triphenylene were also analyzed at bond length distorted structures. In general, the description of PBHs in terms of Clar valence structures is supported by the ELFp properties, although there are exceptions. For PBHs at their equilibrium geometries there is a clear sigmoidal relationship between the CC bond lengths and the amount of p-electron (de)localization at these bonds, however, this relationship is lost for bond distorted geometries. In the latter cases, we specifically examined benzene in D3h symmetric “1,3,5-cyclohexatriene” structures and triphenylene in eight different structures. From the distorted benzenes and triphenylenes it becomes clear that there is a distinct tendency for the p-electron network to retain delocalization (aromaticity). The ELFp analysis thus reveals an antidistortive rather than a distortive behavior of the p-electrons in these investigated compounds.
Chromatography, Gas
Authors: Snow Nicholas H. , Slack Gregory C.
Published: January 2011

The fundamental theory and technology of gas chromatography (GC) are reviewed with an eye toward assisting new users to become familiar with GC and to begin using to solve analytical problems. Theory and data analysis, including gas flows, band broadening and retention on columns is discussed. Instrumentation is reviewed, including inlets, column, detectors and data systems. Special topics, including multidimensional gas chromatography, fast and micro‐GC are introduced. Although new inlets such as programmed temperature vaporization are available and more versatile, split and splitless injection remain the mainstays of sample introduction. Column technology has evolved significantly in the last decade with myriad specialty stationary phases now available in capillary columns. Flame ionization remains the most common detector, although mass spectrometry has become less expensive and complicated and more widely used. There have been tremendous advances in multidimensional gas chromatography. Numerous references to literature and extensive reference sources are included. In 2010, gas chromatography is one of the most versatile and widely used instrumental techniques.
Drying
Authors: Mujumdar Arun
Published: January 2011

Drying is an operation in which volatile liquids are separated from solids, slurries, and solutions to yield solid products. Drying mechanisms and processes, including psychometry, heat‐ and mass‐transfer principles, and a description of liquid and vapor flow encountered during drying are discussed. In freeze drying (lyophilization), wet material is cooled to freeze the liquid and vaporization occurs by sublimation.

Industrial dryers may be broadly classified according to the method of heat transfer as being either direct‐heat or indirect‐heat dryers. The types of dryers employed in the chemical industry, which may also be classified as batch or continuous, are described. Conventional, radiant, dielectric, and microwave heat sources are discussed as are emission control and energy usage of the various dryer types.
Methyl Isobutyl Ketone
Authors: Muthusamy Durai , Fisher Ian
Published: January 2011

Methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) is an industrially important solvent and chemical intermediate, which after methyl methacrylate and bisphenol A is the third largest tonnage product obtained from acetone. MIBK is produced by four different routes: a three‐step process via diacetone alcohol and mesityl oxide intermediates; a one‐step process from acetone and hydrogen; a one‐step process from isopropyl alcohol; and a single or multistep mixed feed process. MIBK is generally considered to exhibit low mammalian toxicity. However, MIBK must be handled with adequate ventilation. Its vapor is heavier than air and can travel a considerable distance to a source of ignition. The major use of MIBK is as a solvent for surface coatings. It is also used in a variety of nonsurface‐coating applications. As a raw material it is used in the manufacture of rubber antiozonants.
Essential Oils
Authors: Başer K. Hüsnü Can , Demirci Fatih
Published: January 2011

An essential oil is defined as volatile part of a natural product, which can be obtained by distillation or expression in the case of citrus fruits. It consists of volatile hydrocarbons, which also may contain oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and rarely halogens in many diverse chemical forms.

These chemicals often have flavor and fragrance properties, and most of them are biologically active. Therefore, they are indispensable ingredients of foods, perfumes, pharmaceuticals, and so on. They also are used as sources of aromachemicals. This entry focuses on various aspects of essential oils from their chemistry, production, analysis, uses, economic aspects, safety, and regulatory considerations.