bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visuelle Stile
Authors: Meier Stefan
Published: November 2014

Welche kulturelle Praxis stellt visuelle Kommunikation in mediatisierten Alltagswelten dar? Wie lässt sich der soziale Sinn von Design in konvergenzkulturellen Settings erfassen? Stefan Meier entwirft ein sozialsemiotisches Modell zur Konzeptualisierung und Analyse visueller Stil-Praktiken. Er macht so die kontextabhängige Produktion zeichenhafter (Medien-)Materialitäten zur performativen Vermittlung von Funktion, Identität/Image und Vergemeinschaftung systematisch fassbar. Das Buch stellt damit eine angewandte (Medien-)Designtheorie dar, die an zahlreichen Beispielen aus den Handlungsfeldern Journalismus, Wirtschaft und Populärkultur veranschaulicht wird. Es bietet so ein praktisches Begriffs- und Analyseinstrument für die Medien- und Designforschung sowie für die (Medien-)Gestaltungspraxis in gleicher Weise.
Landschaft und Gestaltung
Authors: Hauck Thomas E.
Published: November 2014

Landschaft hat seit ihrer Entdeckung als Gestaltungsprinzip in der Malerei der Neuzeit einen radikalen Wandel vollzogen. Dieser betrifft aber nicht ihre Form, die sich über lange Zeit als bemerkenswert stabil erwies, sondern ihren Status als Gegenstand. Von einer bloßen Idee wandelte sie sich zu einem handfesten Gegenstand, der nicht mehr nur gemalt, sondern bewohnt, gestaltet und zerstört werden kann. Im Anschluss an aktuelle Diskussionen über das Entwerfen der »Sache« Landschaft zeichnet Thomas Hauck diesen Wandel vom Bild zum Garten, zur Kulturlandschaft und zum urbanen Parksystem als einen Prozess der Vergegenständlichung einer ästhetischen Idee nach.
Male infertility: biomolecular aspects
Authors: Pizzol Damiano , Bertoldo Alessandro , Foresta Carlo
Published: November 2014

Male infertility is a problem that faces increasing interest, and the continuous development of assisted reproduction techniques solicits attempts to identify a precise diagnosis, in particular for idiopathic infertile couples and those undergoing assisted reproductive technique cycles. To date, diagnosis of male infertility is commonly based on standard semen analysis, but in many cases, this is not enough to detect any sperm abnormality. A better understanding of biomolecular issues and mechanism of damaged spermatogenesis and the refinement of the molecular techniques for sperm evaluation and selection are important advances that can lead to the optimization of diagnostic and therapeutic management of male and couple infertility. Faced with a growing number of new proposed techniques and diagnostic tests, it is fundamental to know which tests are already routinely used in the clinical practice and those that are likely to be used in the near future. This review focuses on the main molecular diagnostic techniques for male infertility and on newly developed methods that will probably be part of routine sperm analysis in the near future.
The lymphocyte to monocyte ratio in peripheral blood represents a novel prognostic marker in patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Stotz Michael , Szkandera Joanna , Stojakovic Tatjana , Seidel Julia , Samonigg Hellmut , Kornprat Peter , Schaberl-Moser Renate , Seggewies Fridericke , Hoefler Gerald , Gerger Armin , Pichler Martin
Published: November 2014

Intra-tumoral macrophages have been involved as important players in the pathogenesis and progression of cancer. Recently, inflammatory parameters of the systemic inflammatory response have also been proposed as usefully prognostic biomarkers. One of these, the lymphocyte to monocyte ratio (LMR) in peripheral blood has been shown as a prognostic factor in hematologic and some solid tumors. In this study we analyzed for the first time the prognostic value of LMR in a large middle European cohort of pancreatic cancer (PC) patients.

Data from 474 consecutive patients with ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreas were evaluated retrospectively. Cancer-specific survival (CSS) was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. To further evaluate the prognostic significance of the LMR, univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were calculated.

Increased LMR at diagnosis was significantly associated with well-established prognostic factors, including high tumor stage and tumor grade (p<0.05). In univariate analysis, we observed that an increased LMR was a significant factor for better CSS in PC patients (HR 0.70; 95% CI 0.57–0.85; p<0.001). In multivariate analysis including age, Karnofsky Index, tumor grade, tumor stage, administration of chemotherapy, LMR and surgical resection, we confirmed increased LMR as an independent prognostic factor for CSS (HR 0.81; 95% CI 0.66–0.99; p=0.04).

In conclusion, we identified LMR as an independent prognostic factor in PC patients. Our results indicate that the LMR might represent a novel and useful marker for patient stratification in PC management.
A theoretical antioxidant pharmacophore for natural hydroxycinnamic acids
Authors: Szeląg Małgorzata , Urbaniak Alicja , Bluyssen Hans A.R.
Published: November 2014

The structure-activity relationship analysis has been performed for trans- and cis-hydroxycinnamic acids, to determine their theoretical antioxidant pharmacophore. Based on the detailed conformational studies, the most stable rotamers have been selected. We have analyzed the descriptors of four antioxidant mechanisms important in free radical scavenging: hydrogen atom transfer, sequential proton loss electron transfer, single electron transfer - proton transfer and transition metal chelation, based on the B3LYP/6-311++G(2d,2p) calculations in vacuum and polar media. The results explain the activity difference between cinnamic acid and its derivatives. The descending order of antioxidant potential is as follows: caffeic > sinapinic ~ ferulic > p-coumaric > o-coumaric > m-coumaric ~ phenol. The results have shown that transisomers indicate higher reactivity than cis- and may be considered as good antioxidants. It has been determined that the highest antioxidant ability is related to the hydroxyl group in para position, supported by planar structure and stability of radical forms. π-Type delocalization of unpaired electron on aromatic ring, double bond and para O-atom is the key to radical stabilization. The ortho-dihydroxy substitution in benzene ring positively influences the ability to neutralize free radicals and makes caffeic acid the antioxidant pharmacophore of hydroxycinnamic acids.
Separation of AsV from aqueous solutions
using chelating polymers containing
FeIII -loaded phosphorus groups
Authors: Negrea Adina , Ciopec Mihaela , Negrea Petru , Lupa Lavinia , Popa Adriana , Davidescu Corneliu M. , Ilia Gheorghe
Published: November 2014

AsV ions were removed by batch equilibrium with FeIII-loaded chelating polymers containing aminophosphinic or aminophosphonic groups. It was effectively removed AsV from a synthetic wastewater as well as from a real drinking water containing 40 μg As per liter. Sorption is best described by pseudo-second order kinetics and a Langmuir isotherm.
A Direct Entropic Approach to Uniform and Spatially Continuous Dynamical Models of Thermoelectric Devices
Authors: Fuchs Hans U.
Published: November 2014

If we accept temperature and entropy as primitive quantities, we can construct a direct approach to a dynamical thermal theory of spatially continuous and uniform processes. The theory of uniform models serves as a simple entry point for learners of modern thermodynamics. Such models can be applied fruitfully to an understanding of (the dynamics of) thermoelectric processes and devices. Entropy, temperature, charge, and voltage allow us to describe the role of energy concisely, and constitutive quantities can be given their natural entropic interpretation. In this paper, aggregate dynamical models of a Peltier device will be created and simulations will be compared to non-steady-state experimental data. Such overall models give us a simple image of the transport of charge and transport, production, and storage of entropy and can be easily extended to the spatially continuous case. Process diagrams for a uniform model can be used to visualize these processes and the role of energy. Device efficiency can be easily read from the model. Apart from external parameters such as load resistances or temperature differences, it depends upon three parameters of the device: internal electric resistance, entropy conductance, and Seebeck coefficient. The Second Law efficiency of a generator suggests how to define the figure of merit (
Some Considerations on the Back Door Theorem and Conditional Randomization
Authors: Molina Julieta , Pantazis Lucio , Sued Mariela
Published: November 2014

In this work, we propose a different “surgical modified model” for the construction of counterfactual variables under non-parametric structural equation models. This approach allows the simultaneous representation of counterfactual responses and observed treatment assignment, at least when the intervention is done in one node. Using the new proposal, the d-separation criterion is used to verify conditions related with ignorability or conditional ignorability, and a new proof of the back door theorem is provided under this framework
Political Generations in American Politics: Insights from Research in International Relations
Authors: Luecke Tim
Published: November 2014

The last decade has witnessed renewed interest in the concept of political generations and the role of generations in foreign and domestic politics. The purpose of this article is to discuss a number of patterns and insights concerning political generations in American politics that derive from my own research in international relations. In pursuit of this goal, I summarize a theory of political generations and explain how it was applied empirically. In the second half of the essay, I discuss what generational analysis might tell us about the study of political change and stability, the presidency, voters, social movements, parties, and bureaucracies. Finally, I briefly engage the methodological problems that can arise from the fact that political generations are in important respects socially constructed through public discourses, in the context of the work on the “Millennial Generation” conducted by the Pew Research Center. While this article can only suggest patterns and initial ideas for further development and research, the hope is that it will help to push forward research on political generations across disciplinary sub-fields.
Revisiting hardboard properties from the fiber sorting point of view
Authors: Tikhonova Elena , Irle Mark , Lecourt Michael
Published: November 2014

This study investigates the effects of fiber dimensions on hardboard properties. Fiber size is determined by the amount of energy applied during refining, and fiber size affects board properties; that is, production cost and board performance are closely related. Therefore, in the present paper, the effects of fiber dimensions on hardboard performance have been investigated. To optimize the hardboard process, fiber size was varied via screening, and the screen fractions were further classified using a Bauer-McNett apparatus. Hardboards were produced with mixtures of classified fibers. Bending strength, internal bond, and thickness swelling of the final boards were evaluated according to EN 310, EN 319, and EN 317, respectively. The effects of fiber size on the investigated properties were analyzed by means of multivariate linear regression. Generally, a higher proportion of small fibers appears to improve board performance presumably due to the higher specific surface area of fibers, which facilitate interfiber bonding.
The variation of tangential rheological properties caused by shrinkage anisotropy and moisture content gradient in white birch disks
Authors: Fu Zongying , Zhao Jingyao , Huan Siqi , Sun Xiaomin , Cai Yingchun
Published: November 2014

The focus of this study is the variation of practical shrinkage strain, elastic strain, viscoelastic creep strain, and mechanosorptive creep characteristics of white birch (Betula platyphylla Suk) disks caused by shrinkage anisotropy (ShrA) and its interaction with moisture content (MC) gradient. The rheological properties of white birch disks have been analyzed as a function of MC based on two different drying schedules at constant and increasing temperature. The drying conditions influence the strains remarkably. The stress characteristics and stress reversal mechanism under the conditions of increasing temperature are discussed based on stress analysis diagrams. Under both drying schedules, the wood disks are initially subjected to tangential tensile stress, and with decreasing MC, the tensile stress turns into compressive stress. Before stress reversal, the stresses of ShrA and MC gradient are aligned in the same direction and then point in opposite directions.
Chemical and ultrastructural changes of ash wood thermally modified using the thermo-vacuum process: I. Histo/cytochemical studies on changes in the structure and lignin chemistry
Authors: Kim Jong Sik , Gao Jie , Terziev Nasko , Cuccui Ignazia , Daniel Geoffrey
Published: November 2014

Changes in structure and lignin chemistry were investigated in ash wood thermally modified (TMW) by the thermo-vacuum (Termovuoto) process for 3 h at 190–220°C by means of light, fluorescence, and transmission electron (TEM) microscopy combined with histo/cytochemistry. Variation in changes in native cell color in TMWs was positively correlated with differences in lignin content between cell types and cell wall regions in the reference wood. Histochemical staining showed increasing amounts of acidic groups in TMWs with different response to ethanol extraction between secondary cell walls and CMLcc(compound middle lamella/middle lamella cell corner) regions. Fluorescence microscopy of TMWs and references showed a difference in intensity and color emission of lignin autofluorescence, reflecting modification of lignin in TMWs. Changes in histochemistry and fluorescence were prominent at and above 200°C. With TEM, increased intensity of lignin staining and distortion of fiber S1layers were detected in TMW treated for 3 h at 220°C (TMW3 h, 220°C). TMW3 h, 220°Cdiffered significantly in molecular ultrastructure of fiber cell walls compared to references, such as loss of the lamellar structure and size and distribution of lignin aggregates. The modification in CMLccstructure in ash TMW3 h, 220°Cis different from that of softwoods.
Structural and Magnetic Properties of Zinc and Silicon Oxides Doped Cu Ferrite for Temperature Controller Devices
Authors: Hessien M. M. , Ahmed E. M. , Hemeda O. M.
Published: November 2014

The effects of Si+4 and Zn+2 substitutions on the structural and magnetic properties of Cu1−xZnx+ySiyFe2−2yO4 ferrites prepared by double sintering ceramic technique have been investigated. From X-ray diffraction analysis, it was found that substitution of Zn and Si enhanced sintering process and crystallization. The XRD peaks increase by increasing Zn and Si content. On the other hand, the initial permeability decreases sharply at Curie temperature for all samples, which makes Zn/Si co-doped CuFe2O4 spinel ferrites a very promising candidate for magnetic switches, magnetic temperature transducers (MTT), and for fabrication of temperature sensitive controller devices. The important change of Curie temperature of CuFe2O4 compound occurs by simply controlling the content of Zn and Si within CuFe2O4 and results in obtaining magnetic materials with desired Curie temperature. Magnetic hysteresis loop measurements show that the samples have soft magnetic character.
Endothelium nitric oxide-independent vasorelaxant effects of the aqueous extract from Stephania abyssinica on the isolated rat thoracic aorta
Authors: Nguelefack Télesphore Benoît , Fodem Chamberlin , Nguelefack-Mbuyo Elvine Pami , Nyadjeu Paulin , Wansi Sylvie Léa , Watcho Pierre , Kamanyi Albert
Published: November 2014

Background: Stephania abyssinica (Dillon & A. Rich) Walp (Menispermaceae) is a medicinal plant used in the west region of Cameroon to treat arterial hypertension. The present study evaluated the vasorelaxant effects of the aqueous (AESA) and methanol (MESA) extracts from the fresh leaves of S. abyssinica on aorta rings isolated from Wistar rats.

Methods: Aorta rings with intact endothelium were contracted with KCl (60 mM) or phenylephrine (10−5 M) and exposed to cumulative concentrations of each extract, ranging from 10 to 1,000 µg/mL. The vasorelaxant effects of AESA were further evaluated in presence of Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10−4 M), tetraethylammonium (TEA, 5 µM), glibenclamide (5 µM), propranolol (5 µM), and the association glibenclamide–propranolol (AGP). In another set of experiments, the effect of AESA was evaluated on calcium-induced contraction in a hyperpotassic milieu.

Results: AESA and MESA exhibited a concentration-dependent vasorelaxation on KCl-contracted aortic rings with respective EC50 of 160.10 and 346.50 µg/mL. AESA similarly relaxed aortic rings contracted with phenylephrine (EC50, 176.80 µg/mL). The vasorelaxant activity of AESA was not significantly affected by L-NAME but was markedly reduced by TEA, glibenclamide, propranolol, and AGP. AESA strongly inhibited the Ca2+-induced contraction by 95%.

Conclusions: These results support the use of S. abyssinica against arterial hypertension and suggest that the vasorelaxant effect of AESA is not mediated via the endothelium/nitric oxide pathway. AESA relaxant properties might be due to an inhibition of Ca2+ influx and/or the activation of ATP-sensitive K+ channels probably via the stimulation of β-adrenergic receptors.
Enhancing the Security of Cloud Manufacturing by Restricting Resource Access
Authors: Liu Xiaoyun , He Wu , Xu Li , Yan Gongjun
Published: November 2014

Cloud manufacturing has recently become a hot research topic in the manufacturing industry. One of the key bottlenecks that hinders the development and application of cloud manufacturing is security. As the adoption and use of manufacturing cloud depends on its security mechanism to a large extent, we propose a new resource security method to enhance the security of cloud manufacturing services by providing resources exclusive access to cloud virtual machine and restricting cloud access from unauthorized users. To enable authorized users in the right location, right time and right network to access resources, a GeoAuthentication model that maps geographic location, access time, and subnetwork information into a secret key is proposed. We also propose conflict firewall in manufacturing cloud to separate users with conflict of interest.
Uterine rupture after the uterine fundal pressure maneuver
Authors: Hasegawa Junichi , Sekizawa Akihiko , Ishiwata Isamu , Ikeda Tomoaki , Kinoshita Katsuyuki
Published: November 2014

To clarify the incidence of uterine fundal pressure at delivery and its effect on uterine rupture.

A questionnaire was sent to 2518 institutions in Japan. We received a response from 1430.

Of reporting institutions, 89.4% used fundal pressure in at least some of their deliveries. Among the 347,771 women who delivered vaginally in this study, 38,973 (11.2%) were delivered with the assistance of fundal pressure. There were six cases of uterine rupture associated with uterine fundal pressure, with one case resulting in maternal death secondary to amniotic fluid embolism.

Since uterine fundal pressure may potentially cause serious injury to either the mother and/or neonates, the indications for application need to be clearly elucidated, and obstetric care providers also need comprehensive education and training.
Cost comparison of treating chronic hepatitis C genotype one with pegylated interferons in Ukraine
Authors: Mandrik Olena , Knies Saskia , Golubovska Оlha , Duda Oleksandr , Dudar Larisa , Fedorchenko Sergiy , Zaliska Оlha , Severens J. L. (Hans)
Published: November 2014

Based on the pivotal trial showing no clinicallyrelevant
differences between pegylated interferon α-2b
(Peg-α-2b) and α-2a (Peg-α-2a) combined with ribavirin
for treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype
1 infection in Ukraine, a cost-minimization analysis was
performed using a 1 year time horizon and both a health
care and patients’ perspective. A decision tree reflects
treatment pathways. Drug costs were based on drug labeling
and adjusted to the average body mass in Ukraine.
Subgroup analysis was applied to deal with heterogeneity
of patient’s weight causing dose changes. A break-even
price of Peg-α-2a and Peg-α-2b (based on the average dose)
was calculated. Univariate sensitivity analyses and probabilistic
sensitivity analysis were carried out to reflect
decision uncertainty. For an average body weight, total
medical costs per patient differ from US$9220 for Peg-α-2b
to US$9513 for Peg-α-2a from a health care perspective, and
from US$15,212 to US$15,696 from a patients’ perspective. Sensitivity analyses show these results are robust. With
average body weight, the break-even price of Peg-α-2b may
be 7.3% higher than Peg-α-2a to have similar total costs.
Correlation between SNPs in CDH1 and gastric
cancer in Chinese population
Authors: Lin Yijin , Yuan Jintao , Wang Lihui , Wang Lan , Ma Yunjia , Wang Yuhua , Chen Jianhong , Zhao Hong
Published: November 2014

Background. Many recent studies revealed that
the single nucleotide polymorphisms have considerable
effects on the susceptibility of cancer, such as prostate
cancer, lung cancer and gastric cancer. The E-cadherin, a
calcium-dependent transmembrane glycoprotein encoded
by CDH1 gene, is critical for epithelial construction, intercellular
adhesion and cell migration. Some associations
have been reported between single nucleotide polymorphisms
and gastric cancer in the Chinese population.
Objective. To investigate whether the single nucleotide
polymorphism in CDH1 gene is associated with the susceptibility
of gastric cancer in the Chinese population.
Material and methods. The genotypes of 5 known single
nucleotide polymorphisms (rs33935154, rs121964871,
rs121964874, rs121964875, rs121964876) were determined in 359 gastric cancer patients and 368 healthy controls.
High resolution melting curve detection and sequencing
analysis were used in the present study. Results. There
is a statistical significance in the rs121964871 C>G polymorphism
between gastric cancer patients and healthy
controls (OR=1.769, 95%CI: 1.051-2.976). Elderly male individuals
(>50 years of age) carrying this risk factor may
be more susceptible to gastric cancer. Conclusions. The
results indicated that the rs121964871 C>G polymorphism
is associated with the susceptibility of gastric cancer in
the Chinese population, with some age and sex-dependent
tendencies observed.
Submental epidermoid cysts in children
Authors: Zielinski Rafal , Zakrzewska Anna
Published: November 2014

Epidermoid cysts are lesions, which form as a
result of implantation of the epidermis in the layers of the
dermis or the mucous membrane. The lesions are rare in
adults with 7% occurring in the head and neck area and
most often located in the submental region. In children
population submental epidermoid cysts are extremely
rare. The differential diagnosis of the lesions is necessary
as it affects the choice of treatment methods. Among the
pathological conditions occurring in that region, salivary
retention cyst (ranula), thyroglossal duct cyst, vascular
lymphatic malformation (cystic hygroma), median neck
cyst, lymphadenopathy, thyroid gland tumor, laryngeal
cyst, epidermoid and dermoid cysts, submental abscess,
sialolithiasis and salivary gland inflammation should be
considered. The authors of the present report demonstrate
two cases of submental epidermoid cysts in children.
Differential diagnosis in case of suspected submental epidermoid
cyst in a child with proposed clinical practice
and literature review is provided.
Wide acquired arteriovenous fistula between main renal artery and interlobar vein treated with nephrectomy
Authors: Pejcic Tomislav , Cinara Ilijas , Markovic Biljana , Hadzi-Djokic Jovan , Menkovic Nemanja , Naumovic Radomir
Published: November 2014

A case of renal arteriovenous fistula between the main renal artery and interlobar vein diagnosed 25 years after percutaneous renal biopsy was presented. A 62-year-old female was referred to a urologist with dilatation of the left renal pyelocalyceal system diagnosed after abdominal ultrasonography, while intravenous urography did not confirm that finding. Historically, she underwent renal biopsy 25 years ago without any complication. Her hypertension was well controlled during the last 10 years, although three antihypertensive drugs with occasional additional diuretics were necessary during the last 6 months. Color Duplex Ultrasonography, arteriography and Multi-Slice Computed Tomography revealed the presence of renal arteriovenous fistula between the main renal artery and interlobar vein, as well as severe dilatation of all interlobar veins, renal, ovarian and adrenal vein on the left side. Urological and vascular surgeons operated to ligate the fistula and preserve the kidney. However, it was not possible to reach the fistula inside the kidney and nephrectomy was performed.
“We”, “They” and the Spaces In-Between: Hybridity in Intercultural Interactions between Portuguese and Chinese Residents in Macau
Authors: Amaro Vanessa
Published: November 2014

This study seeks to explore the hybrid cultural and linguistic spaces that Portuguese immigrants create in Macau in the process of engaging in intercultural communication with the Chinese local community. I use critical discourse analysis to examine data collected through in-depth interviews and observations in order to arrive at an understanding and provide an explanation of how Portuguese residents in Macau negotiate their interactions with the Chinese host culture. In these interviews participants furnish accounts of how they preserve their own cultural and linguistic space, while at the same time achieving functional integration in Macau when interacting with the Chinese population. Using hybridity as the theoretical framework, my research shows how participants deal with living and communicating within and between two distinct cultures; it also demonstrates how their lack of literacy in Cantonese limits the degree and form of integration that they are able to achieve.
The NPU format for clinical laboratory science reports regarding properties, units, and symbols (IUPAC Technical Report)
Authors: Férard Georges , Dybkaer René
Published: November 2014

The terminology of NPU (nomenclature for properties and units) aims at describing properties examined in clinical laboratories for a patient. It was originally jointly approved in 1966 by IUPAC and by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry (IFCC) and covers multiple disciplines in the field of clinical laboratory sciences, including clinical allergology, clinical chemistry, clinical haematology, clinical immunology and blood banking, clinical microbiology, clinical pharmacology, molecular biology and genetics, reproduction and fertility, thrombosis and haemostasis, and toxicology. The NPU terminology adheres to international standards of metrology and of terminology, in particular the International System of Quantities (ISQ) and International System of Units (SI), the International Vocabulary of Metrology (VIM), and also to ‘An outline for a vocabulary of nominal properties and examinations – basic and general concepts and associated terms,’ recently prepared on behalf of the IFCC-IUPAC Committee-Subcommittee on Nomenclature for Properties and Units. The present document recalls the definitions of the concepts used to express a property of a patient, regarded as a system. The aim is to promote by this comprehensive summary the proper NPU terminology for reliable exchange of patient examination data. The use of this syntax and of SI units enables the translation of these descriptions into other languages without loss of meaning or accuracy. The NPU format is also well adapted for comparative and epidemiological studies. More information will be found in the upcoming 2nd edition of the Compendium of Terminology and Nomenclature of Properties in Clinical Laboratory Sciences, the IUPAC and IFCC ‘Silver Book’, and in the recently published ‘Properties and units in the clinical laboratory sciences. Part XXIII. The NPU terminology, principles, and implementation: A user’s guide (IUPAC Technical Report)’ (DOI:10.1351/PAC-REP-11-05-03).
Environmental dependence of stellar velocity dispersion in the Main galaxy sample of SDSS DR10
Authors: Deng Xin-Fa
Published: November 2014

The aim of this work is to examine the environmental
dependence of stellar velocity dispersion in local
galaxies. In studies that likely suffer from the radial selection
effect, one has a preference for the use of volumelimited
samples. Two volume-limited samples with different
redshift and luminosity ranges were constructed from
the Main galaxy data of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data
Release 10 (SDSS DR10). Considering some drawbacks of
volume-limited samples, the apparent magnitude-limited
Main galaxy sample was also applied. Statistical analyses
in these different galaxy samples can reach the same conclusion:
galaxies with large stellar velocity dispersions exist
preferentially in high density regimes, while galaxies
with small stellar velocity dispersions are located preferentially
in low density regions, which is inconsistent with
that obtained at intermediate redshifts.
Mixer-settler runs for the evaluation of tri-iso-amyl phosphate (TiAP) as an alternate extractant to
tri-n-butyl phosphate (TBP) for reprocessing applications
Authors: Suresh A. , Sreenivasulu B. , Jayalakshmi S. , Subramaniam S. , Sabharwal K. N. , Sivaraman N. , Nagarajan K. , Srinivasan T. G. , Vasudeva Rao P. R.
Published: November 2014

As part of the studies on the development of alternate extractants for fast reactor fuel reprocessing, a mixer-settler facility for
performing counter-current solvent extraction runs with radioactive materials has been set up and commissioned in our laboratory for
flow sheet development experiments. Mixer-settler runs were carried out with 1.1 M TiAP/Heavy Normal Paraffin (HNP) as the
solvent using the above facility to test the equipment as well as the behaviour of the solvent for continuous solvent extraction
processes. Stage profile data generated for the extraction and stripping of nitric acid with TiAP based solvent have been
reported. Studies carried out on the continuous counter-current extraction and stripping of U(VI) for 1.1 M
TiAP/HNP-U(VI)-HNO3 system under high solvent loading conditions are also reported in this paper. Overall and stage-wise mass
balance data for the above runs are also discussed.
Digital liquid-scintillation counting and effective pulse-shape discrimination with artificial neural networks
Authors: Langrock Gert , Wiehl Norbert , Kling Hans-Otto , Mendel Matthias , Nähler Andrea , Tharun Udo , Eberhardt Klaus , Trautmann Norbert , Kratz Jens Volker , Omtvedt Jon-Petter , Skarnemark Gunnar
Published: November 2014

A typical problem in low-level liquid scintillation (LS) counting is the identification of α particles in the presence of
a high background of β and γ particles. Especially the occurrence of β-β and β-γ pile-ups may
prevent the unambiguous identification of an α signal by commonly used analog electronics. In this case, pulse-shape
discrimination (PSD) and pile-up rejection (PUR) units show an insufficient performance. This problem was also observed in own earlier
experiments on the chemical behaviour of transactinide elements using the liquid-liquid extraction system SISAK in combination with
LS counting. α-particle signals from the decay of the transactinides could not be unambiguously assigned. However, the
availability of instruments for the digital recording of LS pulses changes the situation and provides possibilities for new
approaches in the treatment of LS pulse shapes. In a SISAK experiment performed at PSI, Villigen, a fast transient recorder, a PC card
with oscilloscope characteristics and a sampling rate of 1 giga samples s−1 (1 ns per point), was used for the first
time to record LS signals. It turned out, that the recorded signals were predominantly α, β-β and β-γ pile up, and fission events. This paper describes the subsequent development and use of artificial neural networks (ANN) based on the
method of “back-propagation of errors” to automatically distinguish between different pulse shapes. Such networks can “learn”
pulse shapes and classify hitherto unknown pulses correctly after a learning period. The results show that ANN in combination with fast
digital recording of pulse shapes can be a powerful tool in LS spectrometry even at high background count rates.
Prospects of oxide ionic conductivity bismuth vanadate-based solid electrolytes
Authors: Khaerudini Deni S. , Guan Guoqing , Zhang Peng , Hao Xiaogang , Abudula Abuliti
Published: November 2014

The benefits of lowering the operation temperature of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) have attracted great attention worldwide. There has been an enormous effort in the literature for the improvement of the electrolyte materials working at lower temperatures. The family of BiMeVOx (Bi–bismuth, Me–dopant metal, V–vanadium, Ox–oxide) materials has been found to have specific properties as oxide ion conductor (electrolyte) for low operation temperature. These materials exhibit uniquely structural features rather different from those of other solid electrolytes. It is possible to use these as the electrolyte in SOFCs. This article attempts to review the main structural and electrochemical characteristics of BiMeVOx materials in order to show a guideline for designing novel BiMeVOx-based electrolyte for low-temperature SOFCs. The prospects and challenges for the application of these materials as the electrolyte are discussed.
Initial and final fracture behaviors of woven fabric composites
Authors: Demircan Ozgur
Published: November 2014

Within the scope of the experiments, the initial and final fracture behaviors in glass roving and glass cloth composites were investigated. After the production of two types of composite panels with the hand lay-up method, tensile and three-point bending tests on composites were conducted. Acoustic emission (AE) and optical microscopy (cross-sectional observation) analyses based on the various strain rates in bending tests were performed to see the fracture initiation and propagation in composites. The initial fractures were transverse cracks in the glass roving composites; these were delaminations in glass cloth composites. The final fractures were transverse cracks, delaminations, and fiber breakages in glass roving and glass cloth composites. In this study, the fracture process and mechanisms of glass roving and glass cloth composites were successfully identified by AE characteristics and cross-sectional observations.
Multi-voiced assessment in a mental health final statement
Authors: Günther Kirsi
Published: November 2014

The focus of this article is on the records written during an intensive assessment and rehabilitation course targeted at young adults suffering from severe mental health issues. The ability of the clients to cope with everyday life is assessed during the rehabilitation course and the final statement compiled by the keyworker includes the combined results of the assessments of each client. Using intertextual analysis, I examine these final statements and utilize the concepts of voice and direct and indirect reported speech. I ask how and what kinds of voices are used in final statement to assess the clients’ progress during the course and to define the future development tasks for them. Firstly, it is shown that the final statements are multi-voiced texts. They are persuasive statements about the clients’ development stories and descriptions of how the rehabilitation course practitioners have helped the client. Secondly, the analysis shows how voice and client knowledge are present in the final statement. The voices of assessment build the argument dialogically and highlight temporality, and in this way they produce a convincing description of the mental health client’s current ability to function and progress on the rehabilitation course.
High Pressure X-ray Studies of Lipid Membranes and Lipid Phase Transitions
Authors: Brooks Nicholas J. , Seddon John M.
Published: November 2014

Hydrostatic pressure has dramatic effects on biomembrane structure and
stability and is a key thermodynamic parameter in the context of the
biology of deep sea organisms. Furthermore, high-pressure and
pressure-jump studies are very useful tools in biophysics and
biotechnology, where they can be used to study the mechanism and
kinetics of lipid phase transitions, biomolecular transformations, and
protein folding/unfolding. Here, we first give an overview of the
technology currently available for X-ray scattering studies of soft
matter systems under pressure. We then illustrate the use of this
technology to study a variety of lipid membrane systems.
Two-Dimensional Arrays of Poly(N-Isopropylacrylamide) Microspheres:
Formation, Characterization and Application
Authors: Pacholski Claudia
Published: November 2014

In the present short review, loosely packed two-dimensional arrays of
hydrogel colloids with quasi-hexagonal order, which are fabricated by
self-assembly on solid substrates, are discussed. For this purpose the
most prominent hydrogel microgel, composed of
poly(N-isopropylacrylamide), is considered. Its extraordinary
properties dictate not only the formation of loosely packed 2D
colloidal crystals but also pave the road to various applications
ranging from optical devices to cell culture substrates.
Deletion of the von Hippel–Lindau gene causes sympathoadrenal cell death and impairs chemoreceptor‐mediated adaptation to hypoxia
Authors: Macías David , Fernández‐Agüera Mary Carmen , Bonilla‐Henao Victoria , López‐Barneo José
Published: November 2014

Mutations of the von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) gene are associated with pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas, but the role of VHL in sympathoadrenal homeostasis is unknown. We generated mice lacking Vhl in catecholaminergic cells. They exhibited atrophy of the carotid body (CB), adrenal medulla, and sympathetic ganglia. Vhl‐null animals had an increased number of adult CB stem cells, although the survival of newly generated neuron‐like glomus cells was severely compromised. The effects of Vhl deficiency were neither prevented by pharmacological inhibition of prolyl hydroxylases or selective genetic down‐regulation of prolyl hydroxylase‐3, nor phenocopied by hypoxia inducible factor overexpression. Vhl‐deficient animals appeared normal in normoxia but survived for only a few days in hypoxia, presenting with pronounced erythrocytosis, pulmonary edema, and right cardiac hypertrophy. Therefore, in the normal sympathoadrenal setting, Vhl deletion does not give rise to tumors but impairs development and plasticity of the peripheral O2‐sensing system required for survival in hypoxic conditions.
β-cell regeneration and differentiation: how close are we to the ‘holy grail’?
Authors: Tan Gemma , Elefanty Andrew G , Stanley Edouard G
Published: November 2014

Diabetes can be managed by careful monitoring of blood glucose and timely delivery of exogenous insulin. However, even with fastidious compliance, people with diabetes can suffer from numerous complications including atherosclerosis, retinopathy, neuropathy, and kidney disease. This is because delivery of exogenous insulin coupled with glucose monitoring cannot provide the fine level of glucose control normally provided by endogenous β-cells in the context of intact islets. Moreover, a subset of people with diabetes lack awareness of hypoglycemic events; a status that can have grave consequences. Therefore, much effort has been focused on replacing lost or dysfunctional β-cells with cells derived from other sources. The advent of stem cell biology and cellular reprogramming strategies have provided impetus to this work and raised hopes that a β-cell replacement therapy is on the horizon. In this review, we look at two components that will be required for successful β-cell replacement therapy: a reliable and safe source of β-cells and a mechanism by which such cells can be delivered and protected from host immune destruction. Particular attention is paid to insulin-producing cells derived from pluripotent stem cells because this platform addresses the issue of scale, one of the more significant hurdles associated with potential cell-based therapies. We also review methods for encapsulating transplanted cells, a technique that allows grafts to evade immune attack and survive for a long term in the absence of ongoing immunosuppression. In surveying the literature, we conclude that there are still several substantial hurdles that need to be cleared before a stem cell-based β-cell replacement therapy for diabetes becomes a reality.
Effects of glucocorticoids on human brown adipocytes
Authors: Barclay Johanna L , Agada Hadiya , Jang Christina , Ward Micheal , Wetzig Neil , Ho Ken K Y
Published: November 2014

Clinical cases of glucocorticoid (GC) excess are characterized by increased fat mass and obesity through the accumulation of white adipocytes. The effects of GCs on growth and function of brown adipose tissue are unknown and may contribute to the negative energy balance observed clinically. This study aims to evaluate the effect of GCs on proliferation, differentiation, and metabolic function of brown adipocytes. Human brown adipocytes sourced from supraclavicular fat biopsies were grown in culture and differentiated to mature adipocytes. Human white adipocytes sourced from subcutaneous abdominal fat biopsies were cultured as controls. Effects of dexamethasone on growth, differentiation (UCP1,CIDEA, andPPARGC1Aexpression), and function (oxygen consumption rate (OCR)) of brown adipocytes were quantified. Dexamethasone (1 μM) significantly stimulated the proliferation of brown preadipocytes and reduced that of white preadipocytes. During differentiation, dexamethasone (at 0.1, 1, and 10 μM) stimulated the expression ofUCP1,CIDEA, andPPARGC1Ain a concentration-dependent manner and enhanced by fourfold to sixfold the OCR of brown adipocytes. Isoprenaline (100 nM) significantly increased (P<0.05) expression ofUCP1and OCR of brown adipocytes. These effects were significantly reduced (P<0.05) by dexamethasone. Thus, we show that dexamethasone stimulates the proliferation, differentiation, and function of human brown adipocytes but inhibits adrenergic stimulation of the functioning of brown adipocytes. We conclude that GCs exert complex effects on development and function of brown adipocytes. These findings provide strong evidence for an effect of GCs on the biology of human brown adipose tissue (BAT) and for the involvement of the BAT system in the metabolic manifestation of Cushing's syndrome.
Requirement of the transcription factor USF1 in bovine oocyte and early embryonic development
Authors: Datta Tirtha K , Rajput Sandeep K , Wee Gabbine , Lee KyungBon , Folger Joseph K , Smith George W
Published: November 2014

Upstream stimulating factor 1 (USF1) is a basic helix–loop–helix transcription factor that specifically binds to E-box DNA motifs, knowncis-elements of key oocyte expressed genes essential for oocyte and early embryonic development. However, the functional and regulatory role of USF1 in bovine oocyte and embryo development is not understood. In this study, we demonstrated thatUSF1mRNA is maternal in origin and expressed in a stage specific manner during the course of oocyte maturation and preimplantation embryonic development. Immunocytochemical analysis showed detectable USF1 protein during oocyte maturation and early embryonic development with increased abundance at 8–16-cell stage of embryo development, suggesting a potential role in embryonic genome activation. Knockdown ofUSF1in germinal vesicle stage oocytes did not affect meiotic maturation or cumulus expansion, but caused significant changes in mRNA abundance for genes associated with oocyte developmental competence. Furthermore, siRNA-mediated depletion ofUSF1in presumptive zygote stage embryos demonstrated thatUSF1is required for early embryonic development to the blastocyst stage. A similar (USF2) yet unique (TWIST2) expression pattern during oocyte and early embryonic development for related E-box binding transcription factors known to cooperatively bind USF1 implies a potential link to USF1 action. This study demonstrates that USF1 is a maternally derived transcription factor required for bovine early embryonic development, which also functions in regulation ofJY1, GDF9, andFSTgenes associated with oocyte competence.
Kawasaki Shock Syndrome Complicating a Recurrence of Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Tissandier Côme , Lang Matthieu , Lusson Jean René , Bœuf Benoit , Merlin Etienne , Dauphin Claire
Published: November 2014

We describe a case of recurrent Kawasaki disease (KD) in a non-Asian 6-year-old boy who had been diagnosed with typical KD without cardiac involvement at age 3 years. He was admitted to the PICU 3 years later for heart failure, hypotension, and deterioration of his general condition. Ultrasonography revealed left ventricular dysfunction with a 44% ejection fraction and grade I mitral valve failure without coronary artery involvement. Subsequent observation of hyperemic conjunctiva, bilateral cervical adenopathies with erythematous skin (normal neck ultrasound and computed axial tomography findings), peeling of the fingertips at day 8 of the illness, and occurrence of an inflammatory syndrome led to a diagnosis of incomplete recurrent KD with a clinical picture of Kawasaki shock syndrome (KSS). Clinical improvement was rapidly obtained after intravenous immunoglobulin and intravenous corticosteroid therapy (30 mg/kg per day for 3 subsequent days). Left ventricular function gradually improved, with ultrasound returning to normal after 3 months. Diagnosis was difficult to establish because of the recurrence of the disease and the incomplete clinical picture, with clinical features of KSS. Physicians need to be aware of these pitfalls in the management of patients with clinical signs of KD.
Evacuation of a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in a Disaster: Lessons From Hurricane Sandy
Authors: Espiritu Michael , Patil Uday , Cruz Hannaise , Gupta Arpit , Matterson Heideh , Kim Yang , Caprio Martha , Mally Pradeep
Published: November 2014

NICU patients are among those potentially most vulnerable to the effects of natural or man-made disaster on a medical center. The published data on evacuations of NICU patients in the setting of disaster are sparse. In October of 2012, New York University Langone Medical Center was evacuated during Hurricane Sandy in the setting of a power outage secondary to a coastal surge. In this setting, 21 neonates were safely evacuated from the medical center’s NICU to receiving hospitals within New York City in a span of 4.5 hours. Using data recorded during the evacuation and from staff debriefings, we describe the challenges faced and lessons learned during both the power outage and vertical evacuation. From our experience, we identify several elements that are important to the functioning of an NICU in a disaster or to an evacuation that may be incorporated into future NICU-focused disaster planning. These include a clear command structure, backups (personnel, communication, medical information, and equipment), establishing situational awareness, regional coordination, and flexibility as well as special attention to families and to the availability of neonatal transport resources.