bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Chaotic Three Dimensional Non-Linear Autonomous System Beyond Lorenz Type Systems
Authors: Khan Md Shariful Islam , Islam Md Shahidul
Published: January 2013

Some fundamental properties of a chaotic three-dimensional non-linear system of the Lorenz type systems were studied. The invariance, dissipation, bifurcation and the strange attractors were investigated and analyzed one 1-scroll, two 2-scroll and two 4-scroll attractors by adding control   parameters to this system. The relationship and connecting function for the 2-scroll attractor of this system were also explored. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbas.v36i2.12959 Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 36, No. 2, 159-170, 2012
Report of Association of Mycoflora with Leaves And Stems of Leea Macrophylla Roxb. Ex Harnem from Bangladesh
Authors: Haq Rokeya , Shamsi Shamim
Published: January 2013

Fifteen species of fungi belonging to ten genera were found to be associated with Leea macrophylla Roxb. ex Harnem. The species are Alternaria tenuissima (Kunze ex Pers.) Wiltshire, Aspergillus flavus Link, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger van Tiegh, Chaetomium Kunze, Colletotrichum musae (Berk. & Curt.) Arx, Colletotrichum dematium (Pres. Ex Fr.) Grove, Curvularia pallescens Boedijn,, Fusarium moniliforme Shelden, Fusarium sp., Melasmia Lev, Penicillium sp., Rhizopus sp., Trichoderma harzianum Pers. and Trichoderma viride Pers. This is the first record of association of the fungi with Leea macrophylla from Bangladesh. All the identified fungi were tested for their pathogenic potentiality. Colletotrichum dematium, Curvularia pallescens, and Fusarium sp. produced symptoms on artificially inoculated leaves of Leea macrophylla. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbas.v36i2.12972 Journal of Bangladesh Academy of Sciences, Vol. 36, No. 2, 257-262, 2012
Use of Isomerization and Hydroisomerization Reactions to Improve the Cold Flow Properties of Vegetable Oil Based Biodiesel
Authors: Reaume Stephen , Ellis Naoko
Published: January 2013

Biodiesel is a promising alternative to petroleum diesel with the potential to reduce overall net CO2 emissions. However, the high cloud point of biodiesel must be reduced when used in cold climates. We report on the use of isomerization and hydroisomerization reactions to reduce the cloud point of eight different fats and oils. Isomerization was carried out at 260 °C and 1.5 MPa H2 pressure utilizing beta zeolite catalyst, while hydroisomerization was carried out at 300 °C and 4.0 MPa H2 pressure utilizing 0.5 wt % Pt-doped beta zeolite catalyst. Reaction products were tested for cloud point and flow properties, in addition to catalyst reusability and energy requirements. Results showed that high unsaturated fatty acid biodiesels increased in cloud point, due to the hydrogenation side reaction. In contrast, low unsaturated fatty acid biodiesels yielded cloud point reductions and overall improvement in the flow properties. A maximum cloud point reduction of 12.9 °C was observed with coconut oil as the starting material. Results of the study have shown that branching can reduce the cloud point of low unsaturated fatty acid content biodiesel.
Ecological Niche Modelling of Bank Voles in Western Europe
Authors: Amirpour Haredasht Sara , Barrios Miguel , Farifteh Jamshid , Maes Piet , Clement Jan , Verstraeten Willem , Tersago Katrien , Van Ranst Marc , Coppin Pol , Berckmans Daniel , Aerts Jean-Marie
Published: January 2013

The bank vole (Myodes glareolus) is the natural host of Puumala virus (PUUV) in vast areas of Europe. PUUV is one of the hantaviruses which are transmitted to humans by infected rodents. PUUV causes a general mild form of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) called nephropathia epidemica (NE). Vector-borne and zoonotic diseases generally display clear spatial patterns due to different space-dependent factors. Land cover influences disease transmission by controlling both the spatial distribution of vectors or hosts, as well as by facilitating the human contact with them. In this study the use of ecological niche modelling (ENM) for predicting the geographical distribution of bank vole population on the basis of spatial climate information is tested. The Genetic Algorithm for Rule-set Prediction (GARP) is used to model the ecological niche of bank voles in Western Europe. The meteorological data, land cover types and geo-referenced points representing the locations of the bank voles (latitude/longitude) in the study area are used as the primary model input value. The predictive accuracy of the bank vole ecologic niche model was significant (training accuracy of 86%). The output of the GARP models based on the 50% subsets of points used for testing the model showed an accuracy of 75%. Compared with random models, the probability of such high predictivity was low (χ2 tests, p < 10−6). As such, the GARP models were predictive and the used ecologic niche model indeed indicates the ecologic requirements of bank voles. This approach successfully identified the areas of infection risk across the study area. The result suggests that the niche modelling approach can be implemented in a next step towards the development of new tools for monitoring the bank vole’s population.
Effect of Human Flavin-Containing Monooxygenase 3 Polymorphism on the Metabolism of Aurora Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Catucci Gianluca , Occhipinti Andrea , Maffei Massimo , Gilardi Gianfranco , Sadeghi Sheila
Published: January 2013

Aurora kinases were recently identified as a potential target in anticancer therapy and, amongst their available inhibitors, Tozasertib (VX-680) and Danusertib (PHA-739358) have been indicated as possible substrates of human flavin-containing monooxygenase 3 (hFMO3). Here we report the in vitro rate of oxidation of these drugs by wild-type hFMO3 and its polymorphic variant V257M. The conversion of Tozasertib and Danusertib to their corresponding metabolites, identified by LC-MS, by the purified wild-type and V257M hFMO3 show significant differences. In the case of Tozasertib, the V257M variant shows a catalytic efficiency, expressed as kcat/Km, similar to the wild-type: 0.39 ± 0.06 min−1µM−1 for V257M compared to 0.33 ± 0.04 min−1µM−1 for the wild type. On the other hand, in the case of Danusertib, V257M shows a 3.4× decrease in catalytic efficiency with kcat/Km values of 0.05 ± 0.01 min−1µM−1 for V257M and 0.17 ± 0.03 min−1µM−1 for the wild type. These data reveal how a simple V257M substitution ascribed to a single nucleotide polymorphism affects the N-oxidation of relevant anticancer drugs, with important outcome in their therapeutic effects. These findings demonstrate that codon 257 is important for activity of the hFMO3 gene and the codon change V to M has an effect on the catalytic efficiency of this enzyme.
Synthesis, DNA Binding and Antitumor Evaluation of Styelsamine and Cystodytin Analogues
Authors: Fong Hugo , Copp Brent
Published: January 2013

A series of N-14 sidechain substituted analogues of styelsamine (pyrido[4,3,2-mn]acridine) and cystodytin (pyrido[4,3,2-mn]acridin-4-one) alkaloids have been prepared and evaluated for their DNA binding affinity and antiproliferative activity towards a panel of human tumor cell lines. Overall it was found that styelsamine analogues were stronger DNA binders, with the natural products styelsamines B and D having particularly high affinity (Kapp 5.33 × 106 and 3.64 × 106 M−1, respectively). In comparison, the cystodytin iminoquinone alkaloids showed lower affinity for DNA, but were typically just as active as styelsamine analogues at inhibiting proliferation of tumor cells in vitro. Sub-panel selectivity towards non-small cell lung, melanoma and renal cancer cell lines were observed for a number of the analogues. Correlation was observed between whole cell activity and clogP, with the most potent antiproliferative activity being observed for 3-phenylpropanamide analogues 37 and 41 (NCI panel average GI50 0.4 μM and 0.32 μM, respectively) with clogP ~4.0–4.5.
siRNA Genome Screening Approaches to Therapeutic Drug Repositioning
Authors: Perwitasari Olivia , Bakre Abhijeet , Tompkins S. , Tripp Ralph
Published: January 2013

Bridging high-throughput screening (HTS) with RNA interference (RNAi) has allowed for rapid discovery of the molecular basis of many diseases, and identification of potential pathways for developing safe and effective treatments. These features have identified new host gene targets for existing drugs paving the pathway for therapeutic drug repositioning. Using RNAi to discover and help validate new drug targets has also provided a means to filter and prioritize promising therapeutics. This review summarizes these approaches across a spectrum of methods and targets in the host response to pathogens. Particular attention is given to the utility of drug repurposing utilizing the promiscuous nature of some drugs that affect multiple molecules or pathways, and how these biological pathways can be targeted to regulate disease outcome.
Revisión de herramientas de asistencia en la selección de soluciones constructivas sostenibles de edificación
Authors: Huedo P. , López-Mesa B.
Published: January 2013

Este artículo presenta un estado del arte de las herramientas existentes a nivel internacional de asistencia en la selección de soluciones constructivas sostenibles de edificación basadas en el Análisis de Ciclo de Vida (ACV), identificándose las características de estas que pueden ayudar a los proyectistas en las fases iniciales de diseño. En una primera fase, se clasifican las herramientas existentes. En una segunda fase, analizamos en detalle las herramientas mejor valoradas por los autores del artículo como apoyo al proyectista en las fases iniciales del proyecto. En este análisis se describen las ventajas y limitaciones que presentan estas herramientas. Como conclusión, se elabora un listado de directrices para el desarrollo, en España, de una herramienta que sirva de apoyo al proyectista para la selección de materiales y soluciones constructivas en la fase de diseño.
Introducing Healthcare in Low-resource Settings
Authors: Lahariya Chandrakant
Published: January 2013

Not available.
Koinonia en diakonia as ’n missionale koninkryksdans
Authors: Ries Johannes , Hendriks H. Jurgens
Published: January 2013

Koinonia and diaconia as a missional kingdom dance. How does faith-based social involvement within a cultural diverse society express itself? Is the focus pure social outreach, that is, the rendering of services, or should the focus include meaningful interaction between the so called ‘outreacher’ and those being supported by the outreach? This article looks at the relationship between koinonia and diaconia in the creation of an intercultural space where individuals from different contexts are welcomed and supported in a mutual way. Through an interdisciplinary approach this article reflects on the experience of koinonia and diaconia in the mission of the church by bringing it into an interdisciplinary conversation with Sociology. God’s reign become visible if koinonia and diaconia can dance together!
Semi-monotone sets
Authors: Basu Saugata , Gabrielov Andrei , Vorobjov Nicolai
Published: January 2013

A coordinate cone in

\mathbb R^n

is an intersection of some coordinate hyperplanes and open coordinate half-spaces. A semi-monotone set is an open bounded subset of

\mathbb R^n

, definable in an o-minimal structure over the reals, such that its intersection with any translation of any coordinate cone is connected. This notion can be viewed as a generalization of convexity. Semi-monotone sets have a number of interesting geometric and combinatorial properties. The main result of the paper is that every semi-monotone set is a topological regular cell.
Ozone and fine particle in the western Yangtze River Delta: an overview of 1-yr data at the SORPES station
Authors: Ding A. J. , Fu C. B. , Yang X. Q. , Sun J. N. , Zheng L. F. , Xie Y. N. , Herrmann E. , Petäjä T. , Kerminen V.-M. , Kulmala M.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. This work presents an overview of 1-yr measurements of ozone (O3) and fine particular matter (PM2.5) and related trace gases at a recently developed regional background site, the Station for Observing Regional Processes of the Earth System (SORPES), in the western part of the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) in East China. O3 and PM2.5 showed distinguished seasonal cycles but with contrast patterns: O3 reached a maximum in warm seasons but PM2.5 in cold seasons. Correlation analysis suggests a VOC-sensitive regime for O3 chemistry and also indicates a substantial formation of secondary aerosols under conditions of high O3 in summer. Compared with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards in China, our measurements report 15 days of O3 exceedance and 148 days of PM2.5 exceedance during the 1-yr period, suggesting a severe air pollution situation in this region. Case studies for typical O3 and PM2.5 episodes demonstrated that these episodes were generally associated with an air mass transport pathway over the mid-YRD, i.e. along the Nanjing-Shanghai axis with its city clusters, and showed that synoptic weather played an important role in air pollution, especially for O3. Agricultural burning activities caused high PM2.5 and O3 pollution during harvest seasons, especially in June. A calculation of potential source contributions based on Lagrangian dispersion simulations suggests that emissions from the YRD contributed to over 70% of the O3 precursor CO, with a majority from the middle-YRD. North-YRD and the North China Plain are the main contributors to PM2.5 pollution in this region, especially for the burning episode days. This work shows an important environmental impact from industrialization and urbanization in the YRD region, and suggests an urgent need for improving air quality in these areas through collaborative control measures among different administrative regions.
Inner structure of the Puy de Dôme volcano: cross-comparison of geophysical models (ERT, gravimetry, muon imaging)
Authors: Portal A. , Labazuy P. , Lénat J.-F. , Béné S. , Boivin P. , Busato E. , Cârloganu C. , Combaret C. , Dupieux P. , Fehr F. , Gay P. , Laktineh I. , Miallier D. , Mirabito L. , Niess V. , Vulpescu B.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Muon imaging of volcanoes and of geological structures in general is actively being developed by several groups in the world. It has the potential to provide 3-D density distributions with an accuracy of a few percent. At this stage of development, comparisons with established geophysical methods are useful to validate the method. An experiment has been carried out in 2011 and 2012 on a large trachytic dome, the Puy de Dôme volcano, to perform such a comparison of muon imaging with gravimetric tomography and 2-D electrical resistivity tomography. Here, we present the preliminary results for the last two methods. North–south and east–west resistivity profiles allow us to model the resistivity distribution down to the base of the dome. The modelling of the Bouguer anomaly provides models for the density distribution within the dome that are directly comparable with the results from the muon imaging. Our ultimate goal is to derive a model of the dome using the joint interpretation of all sets of data.
How will climate change modify river flow regimes in Europe?
Authors: Schneider C. , Laizé C. L. R. , Acreman M. C. , Flörke M.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Worldwide, flow regimes are being modified by various anthropogenic impacts and climate change induces an additional risk. Rising temperatures, declining snow cover and changing precipitation patterns will interact differently at different locations. Consequently, in distinct climate zones, unequal consequences can be expected in matters of water stress, flood risk, water quality, and food security. In particular, river ecosystems and their vital ecosystem services will be compromised as their species richness and composition have evolved over long time under natural flow conditions. This study aims at evaluating the exclusive impacts of climate change on river flow regimes in Europe. Various flow characteristics are taken into consideration and diverse dynamics are identified for each distinct climate zone in Europe. In order to simulate present-day natural flow regimes and future flow regimes under climate change, the global hydrology model WaterGAP3 is applied. All calculations for current and future conditions (2050s) are carried out on a 5' × 5' European grid. To address uncertainty, bias-corrected climate forcing data of three different global climate models are used to drive WaterGAP3. Finally, the hydrological alterations of different flow characteristics are quantified by the Indicators of Hydrological Alteration approach. Results of our analysis indicate that on the European scale, climate change can be expected to modify flow regimes remarkably. This is especially the case in the Mediterranean (due to drier conditions with reduced precipitation across the year) and in the boreal climate zone (due to reduced snowmelt, increased precipitation, and strong temperature rises). In the temperate climate zone, impacts increase from oceanic to continental. Regarding single flow characteristics, strongest impacts on timing were found for the boreal climate zone. This applies for both high and low flows. Flow magnitudes, in turn, will be predominantly altered in the Mediterranean but also in the Northern climates. At the end of this study, typical future flow regimes under climate change are illustrated for each climate zone.
Evidence of non-extensivity in the seismicity observed during the 2011–2012 unrest at the Santorini volcanic complex, Greece
Authors: Vallianatos F. , Michas G. , Papadakis G. , Tzanis A.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. During the period of October 2011–January 2012, an increase of earthquake activity has been observed in the volcanic complex of Santorini Island, Greece. Herein, the magnitude distribution of earthquakes as well as the temporal distribution of seismicity are studied. The statistics of both parameters exhibit complexity that is evident in the frequency-magnitude distribution and the inter-event time distribution, respectively. Because of this, we have used the analysis framework of non-extensive statistical physics (NESP), which seems suitable for studying complex systems. The observed inter-event time distribution for the swarm-like earthquake events, as well as the energy and the inter-event earthquake energy distributions for the observed seismicity can be successfully described with NESP, indicating the inherent complexity of the Santorini volcanic seismicity along with the applicability of the NESP concept to volcanic earthquake activity, where complex correlations exist.
Ice tectonic deformation during the rapid in situ drainage of a supraglacial lake on the Greenland Ice Sheet
Authors: Doyle S. H. , Hubbard A. L. , Dow C. F. , Jones G. A. , Fitzpatrick A. , Gusmeroli A. , Kulessa B. , Lindback K. , Pettersson R. , Box J. E.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. We present detailed records of lake discharge, ice motion and passive seismicity capturing the behaviour and processes preceding, during and following the rapid drainage of a 4 km2 supraglacial lake through 1.1-km-thick ice on the western margin of the Greenland Ice Sheet. Peak discharge of 3300 m3 s−1 coincident with maximal rates of vertical uplift indicates that surface water accessed the ice–bed interface causing widespread hydraulic separation and enhanced basal motion. The differential motion of four global positioning system (GPS) receivers located around the lake record the opening and closure of the fractures through which the lake drained. We hypothesise that the majority of discharge occurred through a 3-km-long fracture with a peak width averaged across its wetted length of 0.4 m. We argue that the fracture's kilometre-scale length allowed rapid discharge to be achieved by combining reasonable water velocities with sub-metre fracture widths. These observations add to the currently limited knowledge of in situ supraglacial lake drainage events, which rapidly deliver large volumes of water to the ice–bed interface.
A Comparison of Outcomes and Dislocation Rates Using Dual Articulation Cups and THA for Intracapsular Femoral Neck Fractures
Authors: Tarasevičius Sarunas , Robertsson Otto , Dobozinskas Paulius , Wingstrand Hans
Published: January 2013

Total hip arthroplasty for intracapsular femoral neck fractures (FNF) is associated with a greater risk of dislocation. Dual articulation systems in this group of patients may provide better implant stability and a reduced dislocation rate. The aim of our study was to investigate FNF patients treated with dual articulation cups (DAC) and conventional THA and compare their clinical results at four months and one year after surgery.

Our study compared femoral neck fracture patients treated with either DAC or conventional THA during two different time periods. Before surgery and during follow-up, the patients answered questions regarding their mobility, pain and usage of walking aids. Additionally at four-month and one-year follow-ups EQ-5D and HOOS questionnaires were applied for those patients qualifying for functional and quality of life analysis.

Out of 125 femoral neck fracture patients 58 were treated with DAC and 67 with conventional THA. At four months and one year follow-up the HOOS and EQ-5D results did not differ significantly between DAC and conventional THA. Five hips in the THA group were revised for recurrent dislocation and two had a single dislocation.

One year after surgery, the functional result of DAC and conventional THA are comparable but DAC have a lower risk of dislocation.
Impact of Growing Up with a Chronically Ill Sibling on Well Siblings' Late Adolescent Functioning
Authors: Fleary Sasha A. , Heffer Robert W.
Published: January 2013

The purpose of this study was to explore the continuing impact of growing up with an ill sibling on well siblings' late adolescent functioning. Forty late adolescents (, ), who identified themselves as growing up with an ill sibling, completed a semistructured interview, demographic questionnaire, Personality Assessment Screener, and My Feelings and Concerns Sibling Questionnaire. Participants reported clinically significant problems on some PAS scales, and gender differences were found for acting out and alienation. Significant relationships were reported for communication and social withdrawal and alienation. Both positive and negative themes about the experience were elicited from the responses in the semistructured interview. This study provides evidence for some lingering negative effects of growing up with an ill sibling on well siblings' late adolescent functioning. Additionally, evidence for siblings' development of positive characteristics that may act as protective variables as they face the stressors of late adolescence was also highlighted.
Fermentative Capacity of Three Strains of Lactobacillus Using Different Sources of Carbohydrates: In Vitro Evaluation of Synbiotic Effects, Resistance and Tolerance to Bile and Gastric Juices
Authors: Pak Dolar , Muthaiyan Arunachalam , Story Robert S. , O'Bryan Corliss A. , Lee Sun-Ok , Crandall Philip G. , Ricke Steven C.
Published: January 2013

A fermentation study of three probiotic Lactobacillus strains was conducted on individual carbohydrates including glucose (GLU) high methoxy pectin (HMP), sugar beet pectin (SBP), fructooligosaccharide (FOS), galactooligosaccharide (GOS), and inulin agave (IA) as the sole carbon sources. It was observed that Lactobacillus bulgaricus (LB), Lactobacillus casei (LC) and Lactobacillus delbruckii (LD) achieved the highest growth rates when they were grown in the presence of GLU, FOS, and IA, but LB had a slower growth rate in these substrates compared to LC and LD. Only LC had a statistically significantly higher growth rate in GOS than in the basal medium which contained no carbohydrate source. Exposure to bile caused a significant reduction of log colony forming units/ml of all 3 strains, with LD grown in HMP exhibiting the highest survival followed by LC and LD grown in GLU, and LD grown on IA. Although HMP was not fermented by the test organisms, results indicate that HMP may in fact help certain probiotic bacteria to survive exposure to bile. Exposure to simulated gastric juices indicated that the studied Lactobacilli are tolerant to simulated gastric juice.
Study of the Volatile Compounds and Amino Acid Profile in Bacillus Fermented Castor Oil Bean Condiment
Authors: Ojinnaka Maureen-Theodore C. , Ojimelukwe Phillipa C.
Published: January 2013

Bacillus subtilis was used as a monoculture starter for the production of three different fermented castor oil bean condiments: B1 ( 0% NaCl/Lime), B2 (2% NaCl), B3 (3% Lime). The volatile components of the three samples were determined using Gas –Chromatography / Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) while High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used in the study of the amino acid contents. A total of seventeen volatile constituents were identified in the fermented castor oil bean samples using GC-MS. The compounds identified were of various types: acids, esters, alcohols, furans, ketones and others. However, acids were found to be the dominant constituent group followed by esters. Results from the amino acid analysis shows the three fermented castor oil bean samples contained sufficient amount of amino acids. The essential amino acids were in the range of 42.22 – 54.17% for EAA7 and 63.76 – 73.82% for EAA10 of total Free Amino Acids with the most abundant being tryptophan, isoleucine and phenyalanine. Bitter taste was observed as the predominant taste followed by sweet taste and tasteless amino acids. MSG-like taste was slight with B1:1.624 µg/ml, B2: 1.069 µg/ml and B3: 0.881 µg/ml. It is suggested that the desirable taste of ogiri from castor oil bean is formed by interactions between the amino acid and volatile components analyzed in this study.
Strategies for Using Peer‐assisted Learning Effectively in an Undergraduate Bioinformatics Course
Authors: Shapiro Casey , Ayon Carlos , Moberg‐Parker Jordan , Levis‐Fitzgerald Marc , Sanders Erin R.
Published: January 2013

This study used a mixed methods approach to evaluate hybrid peer‐assisted learning approaches incorporated into a bioinformatics tutorial for a genome annotation research project. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from undergraduates who enrolled in a research‐based laboratory course during two different academic terms at UCLA. Findings indicate that a critical feature of the peer‐assisted learning approach is to have near‐peer leaders with genome annotation experience, allowing them to communicate technical and conceptual aspects of the process in the context of a research project (a.k.a., the “big picture”). These characteristics are important for creating connections between the wet lab experiments and the computer lab activities, engendering excitement about the research project and fostering engagement in bioinformatics as a discipline. Likewise, it is essential to couple tutorial training in genome annotation with appropriate instructional materials, providing detailed, step‐by‐step instructions for database navigation. Finally, the assessment results support this hybrid peer‐assisted learning approach as a model for undergraduates to successfully learn bioinformatics in a course setting. © 2012 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 41(1):24–33, 2013
Extraordinary branching pattern of the aortic arch
Authors: Wiedemann Dominik , Kocher Alfred , Mahr Stephane , Longato Stefano , Bonaros Nikolaos , Schachner T.
Published: January 2013

A CT‐scan of a 75‐year‐old patient showed an aneurysm of the descending aorta with a maximum diameter of 4.8 cm involving the left subclavian artery. Due to the fact that the patient had several comorbidities including a severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease he was treated only conservatively. However, there were several interesting findings on the CT‐scan: the branching pattern of the aortic arch revealed a left carotid artery arising as first side branch of the distal part of the ascending aorta. This vessel crosses the midline right in front of the trachea. Apart from that the patient did not have a brachiocephalic trunk: the right carotid artery arose as the first branch from the aortic arch and crossed the right subclavian artery anteriorly. Furthermore, the left subclavian seemed to arise from the descending aorta and not from the aortic arch. Clin. Anat. 26:1006–1007, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Solvent‐Responsive Behavior of Polymer‐Brush‐Modified Amphiphilic Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Dong Jiaqi , Zhou Jian
Published: January 2013

Amphiphilic polymer brushes grafted onto gold nanoparticles impart distinct solvent‐responsive behavior via the change to particle size and surface chemistry and, therefore, wide application prospects can be expected. Coarse‐grained simulations are performed for block and/or mixed polystyrene (PS)/poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)‐modified amphiphilic gold nanoparticles (AuNP) to investigate their responsive behavior in five different solvents by analyzing their morphology, distribution density profiles, and gyration radii. Typical core–shell, Janus‐type, buckle‐like, ring‐like, jellyfish‐like, and octopus‐like morphologies are formed. Influence of block sequence, mixing mode, and several other effects are discussed. Responsive particle size and surface hydrophilicity can be successfully reproduced by altering solvents.

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Structure elucidation of four prenylindole derivatives from Streptomyces sp. isolated from Ailuropoda melanoleuca feces
Authors: Zheng Dan , Han Li , Jiang Yi , Cao Yan‐Ru , Liu Jiang , Chen Xiu , Li Yi‐Qing , Huang Xue‐Shi
Published: January 2013

Four new prenylindole derivatives, (R)‐6‐(2,3‐dihydroxy‐3‐methylbutyl)indole (1), (R)‐6‐(2,3‐dihydroxy‐3‐methylbutyl)indolin‐2‐one (2), and an unseparated mixture of (Z)‐6‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methylbut‐2‐en‐1‐yl)indolin‐2‐one (3a) and (E)‐6‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methylbut‐2‐en‐1‐yl)indolin‐2‐one (3b) with a ratio of 3 : 2, were isolated from the culture broth of a streptomycete isolated from Ailuropoda melanoleuca feces. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic techniques. The absolute configuration of 1 was determined by Mosher's method. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nanoinfusion of ZnO and ZnS nanoparticles into ethylene vinyl acetate in situ for improved optical properties
Authors: Bachus Matthew J. , Spendel Wolfgang U. , Steinecker William H. , Prybyla Stanley G. , Pacey Gilbert E.
Published: January 2013

ZnO nanoparticles were successfully synthesized within the free volume of an ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) polymer sheet. Using a process termed “nanoinfusion,” nanoparticles are created in situ. Vapor phase nanoparticle precursors first filled the polymer free volume. Nucleated components of the precursor molecule within the free volume enabled nanoparticle formation and immobilization within the polymer. Trapped nanoparticles were accessible to gas diffusion and can be modified as was demonstrated by the successful conversion of nanoinfused ZnO to ZnS nanoparticles. Successful nanoparticle formation was confirmed through fluorescence spectroscopy and the amount of material nanoinfused was obtained through thermal gravimetric analysis. The nanoinfused ZnO and ZnS exhibited unexpectedly high fluorescent quantum yields, significantly higher than that observed for comparable materials. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Personal genomes, quantitative dynamic omics and personalized medicine
Authors: Mias George I. , Snyder Michael
Published: January 2013

The rapid technological developments following the Human Genome Project have made possible the availability of personalized genomes. As the focus now shifts from characterizing genomes to making personalized disease associations, in combination with the availability of other omics technologies, the next big push will be not only to obtain a personalized genome, but to quantitatively follow other omics. This will include transcriptomes, proteomes, metabolomes, antibodyomes, and new emerging technologies, enabling the profiling of thousands of molecular components in individuals. Furthermore, omics profiling performed longitudinally can probe the temporal patterns associated with both molecular changes and associated physiological health and disease states. Such data necessitates the development of computational methodology to not only handle and descriptively assess such data, but also construct quantitative biological models. Here we describe the availability of personal genomes and developing omics technologies that can be brought together for personalized implementations and how these novel integrated approaches may effectively provide a precise personalized medicine that focuses on not only characterization and treatment but ultimately the prevention of disease.
Optimization of the Surimi Production from Mechanically Recovered Fish Meat (MRFM) Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Fogaça Fabíola H S. , Trinca Luzia Aparecida , Bombo Áurea Juliana , Silvia Sant'Ana Léa
Published: January 2013

The by‐products generated from industrial filleting of tilapia surimi can be used for the manufacture of surimi. The surimi production uses large amounts of water, which generates a wastewater rich in organic compounds (lipids, soluble proteins and blood). Optimizing the number of washing cycles will contribute to a more sustainable production. A mathematical model of mechanically recovered tilapia meat (Oreochromis niloticus) for the processing of surimi (minced fish washing cycles and tapioca starch addition) based on two quality parameters (texture and moisture) was constructed by applying the response surface methodology (RSM). Each factor had an important effect on the moisture and texture of surimi. This study found that the optimal formulation for producing the best surimi using the by‐products of tilapia filleting in manufacturing fish burger were the addition of 10% tapioca starch and three minced fish washing cycles. A microstructural evaluation supported the findings of the mathematical model.

Practical Applications

The use of mechanically recovered fish meat (MRFM) for the production of surimi enables the utilization of the by‐products of filleting fish. However, the inferior quality of the surimi produced from MRFM in relation to that produced with fillets necessitates the addition of starch; secondly, surimi production consumes a large volume of water. RSM provides a valuable means for optimizing the number of washing cycles and starch amounts utilized in fish burger production. Tapioca starch, widely produced in Brazil, has desirable characteristics (surface sheen, smooth texture, neutral taste and clarity in solution) for use in MRFM‐produced surimi.
A LOW DISTORTION BOOTSTRAPPED SWITCH FOR 4-BIT MDAC
Authors: ZHU ZHANGMING , YU GUANGWEN , WANG JINGYU , YANG YINTANG
Published: January 2013

A novel bootstrapped switch scheme with low distortion and high-speed is presented. Transmission gate (TG) switch is used to implement the switch circuit, which results in a reduction in the effect of charge injection during sampling phase and an improved linearity. The parasitic capacitance connected to the top plate of battery capacitor is minimized for higher output voltage. The switch has been simulated in Spectre using an SMIC 0.18 μm CMOS technology at 3.3 V and been applied to a 4-bit multiplying DAC (MDAC) in a 14-bit 100 MS/s pipelined analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The 4-bit MDAC has shown a satisfying dynamic performance.
GLOBAL CRISIS AND THE DEMAND FOR GOLD BY CENTRAL BANKS: A REVIEW ESSAY WITH REFERENCE TO INDIA
Authors: KARUNAGARAN A.
Published: January 2013

When India purchased 200 tons of gold in October 2009, it was perceived, inter alia that it may spur the demand for gold by many central banks and the price may further escalate. This paper examines the general trend among the central banks' demand for gold in the wake of the recent global financial crisis. In that context, the paper focuses on whether India's purchase of gold was an appropriate reserve management strategy and if it affected the gold price trends. Related issues such as optimum size of gold in foreign reserves and the rationale of central banks buying gold with special reference to the global crisis are also addressed.
Synonymous codon usage bias is correlative to intron number and shows disequilibrium among exons in plants
Authors: Qin Zhen , Cai Zhengqiu , Xia Guangmin , Wang Mengcheng
Published: January 2013

Background

Evidence has been assembled to suggest synonymous codon usage bias (SCUB) has close relationship with intron. However, the relationship (if any) between SCUB and intron number as well as exon position is at present rather unclear.

Results

To explore this relationship, the sequences of a set of genes containing between zero and nine introns was extracted from the published genome sequences of three algal species, one moss, one fern and six angiosperms (three monocotyledonous species and three dicotyledonous species). In the algal genomes, the frequency of synonymous codons of the form NNG/NNC (codons with G and C at the third position) was positively related to intron number, but that of NNA/NNT was inversely correlated; the opposite was the case in the land plant genomes. The frequency of NNC/NNG was higher and that of NNA/NNT lower in two terminal exons than in the interstitial exons in the land plant genes, but the rule showed to be opposite in the algal genes. SCUB patterns in the interstitial and two terminal exons mirror the different evolutionary relationships between these plant species, while the first exon shows the highest level of conservation is therefore concluded to be the one which experiences the heaviest selection pressure. The phenomenon of SCUB may also be related to DNA methylation induced conversion of CG to AT.

Conclusions

These data provide some evidence of linkage between SCUB, the evolution of introns and DNA methylation, which brings about a new perspective for understanding how genomic variation is created during plant evolution.
A promoção da saúde da criança: a participação da Fisioterapia
Authors: Sá Miriam Ribeiro Calheiros de , Gomes Romeu
Published: January 2013

O artigo objetiva analisar, na literatura disponível, o estado da arte das ações fisioterapêuticas voltadas para a criança, tendo como foco a promoção da saúde. Com isso, através da problematização de ideias presentes na produção do conhecimento, pretende-se contribuir com subsídios para a formulação de princípios para a Fisioterapia e promover ações de atenção integral à saúde da criança. Metodologicamente, o estudo consiste numa revisão bibliográfica de cunho qualitativo, focando artigos disponíveis em bibliotecas virtuais e bases de dados nacionais e internacionais. São apontados quatro eixos temáticos que permeiam a discussão, a saber: Fisioterapia na perspectiva da promoção da saúde da criança; práticas corporais em diferentes níveis de atenção; Fisioterapia voltada para crianças em âmbito coletivo e intersetorialidade. As discussões da literatura consultada possibilitaram evidenciar limites para o desenvolvimento da Fisioterapia voltada para a criança numa perspectiva da promoção da saúde.
Thermoelectric Nanomaterial: A Demiurgic Approach towards Improvement of Shale Stability
Authors: Pandey Prateek , Kapadnis Pratik Prakash , Ghansar Bilal Hameed , Mandan Sagar Pralhad
Published: January 2013

Abstract

Shale has presence of large amount of clay minerals and thus its instability is a major problem while drilling. The main factors contributing to this are the hydrostatic Pressure, Chemical and Thermal. The Thermal factor deals with difference in temperature of drilling fluid and reservoir and contributes mainly to the cause of instability. The use of mud at normal temperature results in high temperature difference between the reservoir and drilling fluid hence adding to the instability of shale.Wellbore stability is very critical for a successful drilling operation. Heating can enhance tensile failure in shale while cooling lowers its tensile stresses. This paper adduces a novel idea to ameliorate the shale stability by using low temperature drilling fluid and a cost effective thermoelectric nanomaterials and Ni-Fe nanomaterial to alter the mud temperature. Thermoelectric nanomaterial reduces the mud temperature as electricity is applied while Ni-Fe nanomaterial helps in increasing the mud temperature. While drilling, mud temperature becomes greater than formation temperature due to which stress on wellbore increases and therefore wellbore stability reduces. Apart from this the pore pressure increases and the fracture pressure decreases. Improved shale stability can be achieved if the difference between temperature of mud and formation temperature is reduced to an optimum value. This optimum temperature difference is found by considering values of pore pressure, stresses on formation and fracturing pressure for different temperatures. In case of practical purposes, stress test can be carried out at different temperatures which help in deciding the optimum temperature difference. It has been discovered that the less expensive and readily available thermoelectric nanomaterials can be used to reduce the mud temperature. The upper hand of this technique is the low dosage requirements. Moreover the nanoparticles used are innocuous and environmentally safe.
Increasing Drilling Performance Using Hydro-Mechanical Hole Cleaning Devices
Authors: VAN PUYMBROECK Luc
Published: January 2013

While hole cleaning is generally considered to be well understood in drilling deviated and horizontal wells, drillers still have difficulty properly managing the entire process. Experience reveals that less-than optimal hole cleaning can lead to non-productive time, poor bore-hole quality, and loss of drill string or even the well.

Efficient cuttings transport and keeping the well clean enough for trouble–free operations are challenges predominantly associated with drilling complex wells. Cuttings tend to accumulate on the low side of the hole forming thick beds causing the flow velocity to become insufficient to keep the hole clean. Large boreholes drilled at high ROPs will usually require additional rig time for cleanup. Time spent on hole cleaning operations can be significant, but essential. A more in-depth analysis of performance drilling in certain directional well profiles reveals a more efficient approach using Mechanical Hole Cleaning Devices (MCD) when economically justifiable.

This paper addresses a new drill pipe design integrating hydro-mechanical features in each tool joint has been developed to overcome limitations of MCDs in smaller diameter holes, and to extend the application of Hydroclean drill pipe to ERD (Extended Reach Drilling) wells. This innovation enables drilling with safer ECD (Equivalent Circulating Density) margins and reducing time spent on hole cleaning operations. Short of a full analysis with Key Performance Indicators, performance improvements compared with standard drill pipe are expected as a result of efficiency gains achieved by the three main principles of hole cleaning; scooping and eroding cutting beds at each tool joint, keeping cuttings continuously flowing on the high side of the hole, and maintaining the conveyor belts effect along the drill string while rotating.
Endothelial cell leptin receptor mutant mice have hyperleptinemia and reduced tissue uptake
Authors: Hsuchou Hung , Jayaram Bhavaani , Kastin Abba J. , Wang Yuping , Ouyang Suidong , Pan Weihong
Published: January 2013

Hyperleptinemia is usually associated with obesity and leptin resistance. Endothelial cell leptin receptor knockout (ELKO) mice without a signaling membrane‐bound leptin receptor in endothelia, however, have profound hyperleptinemia without signs of leptin resistance. Leptin mRNA in adipose tissue was unchanged. To test the hypothesis that the ELKO mutation results in delayed degradation and slowed excretion, we determined the kinetics of leptin transfer in groups of ELKO and wildtype mice after intravenous bolus injection of 125I‐leptin and the reference substance 131I‐albumin. The degradation pattern of 125I‐leptin in serum and brain homogenates at different time points between 10 and 60 min was measured by HPLC and acid precipitation. Although ELKO mice had reduced uptake of 125I‐leptin uptake by the brain and several peripheral organs, leptin was more stable in blood and tissue. There was no change in the rate of renal excretion. ELISA showed that serum soluble leptin receptor, known to antagonize leptin transport, had a 400‐fold increase, probably contributing to the hyperleptinemia and reduced tissue uptake. Thus, the ELKO mutation unexpectedly increased the stability of leptin but suppressed its tissue uptake. These changes probably contribute to the known partial resistance of the ELKO mice to diet‐induced obesity. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1610–1616, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TNFα induces expression of HIF‐1α mRNA and protein but inhibits hypoxic stimulation of HIF‐1 transcriptional activity in airway smooth muscle cells
Authors: Tsapournioti Stamatina , Mylonis Ilias , Hatziefthimiou Apostolia , Ioannou Maria G. , Stamatiou Rodopi , Koukoulis Georgios K. , Simos George , Molyvdas Paschalis‐Adam , Paraskeva Efrosyni
Published: January 2013

Airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) participate in tissue remodeling characteristic of airway inflammatory diseases like asthma. Inflammation and hypoxia pathways are often interconnected and the regulatory subunit of the hypoxia inducible factor, HIF‐1α, has been recently shown to be induced by cytokines. Here we investigate the effect of individual or combined treatment of ASMCs with the inflammatory mediator TNFα and/or hypoxia on the expression of HIF‐1α, HIF‐1 targets and inflammation markers. TNFα enhances HIF‐1α protein and mRNA levels, under both normoxia and hypoxia. TNFα‐mediated induction of HIF‐1α gene transcription is repressed by inhibition of the NF‐κB pathway. Despite the up‐regulation of HIF‐1α protein, the transcription of HIF‐1 target genes remains low in the presence of TNFα at normoxia and is even reduced at hypoxia. We show that the reduction in HIF‐1 transcriptional activity by TNFα is due to inhibition of the interaction of HIF‐1α with ARNT and subsequent blocking of its binding to HREs. Comparison between hypoxia and TNFα for their effects on the expression of inflammatory markers shows significant differences: hypoxia up‐regulates the expression of IL‐6, but not RANTES or ICAM, and reduces the induction of VCAM by TNFα. Finally, ex vivo treatment of rabbit trachea strips with TNFα increases HIF‐1α protein levels, but reduces the expression of HIF‐1 targets under hypoxia. Overall, TNFα induces HIF‐1α mRNA synthesis via an NF‐κB dependent pathway but inhibits binding of HIF‐1α to ARNT and DNA, while hypoxia and TNFα have distinct effects on ASMC inflammatory gene expression. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1745–1753, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.