bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knockdown of glucose-regulated protein 78 decreases the invasion, metalloproteinase expression and ECM degradation in hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Li Hongdan , Song Huijuan , Luo Junsheng , Liang Jia , Zhao Song , Su Rongjian
Published: April 2012

Background

We have reported previously that overexpression of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) promotes the invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma. However, whether GRP78 knockdown affects the extracellular matrix degradation has not been elucidated. Here we are going to determine whether GRP78 knockdown affect the ECM degradation and the role of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in these process in hepatocellular carcinoma cells.

Methods

Human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line SMMC7721 and HepG2 were cultured in DMEM supplemented with 10% FBS, RT-PCR and western blot were used to detect the endogenous expression of GRP78, MMP-2, MMP-9 and TIMP-2 in SMMC7721 and HepG2. GRP78 shRNAs were transfected using lipofection2000. Transwell assay and wound healing assay were used to analyze the invasion of each transfectant. Gelatin zymography and FITC-gelatin degradation assay were employed to investigate the capabilities of ECM degradation of each transfectant. MTT assay was used to determine the proliferation status. Western blot was employed to detect the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2(MMP-2), MMP-9, MMP-14, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2(TIMP-2), focal adhesion kinase (FAK), ERK1/2, JNK and Src.

Results

According to the expression levels of GRP78, MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-14 and TIMP-1 in hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines SMMC7721 and hepG2, we used SMMC7721 as the in vitro invasion model for further functional analysis. Using this model, we found that GRP78 knockdown decreased the invasion of tumor cells, and this inhibitory effect was independent of cell proliferation. In hepatocellular carcinoma cells, Grp78 knockdown inhibited ECM degradation and the decreased activity and expression of MMP-2, but not MMP-9 contributed largely to this impact. Further analysis revealed that the decreased activity and expression of MMP-2 is mediated by JNK.

Conclusion

Knockdown of GRP78 decreases ECM degradation, and downregulates the expression and activity of MMP-2 and TIMP-2. These results further demonstrate that GRP78 is a potential target for inhibiting the invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells.
Altering gait by way of stimulation of the plantar surface of the foot: the immediate effect of wearing textured insoles in older fallers
Authors: Hatton Anna L , Dixon John , Rome Keith , Newton Julia L , Martin Denis J
Published: April 2012

Background

Evidence suggests that textured insoles can alter gait and standing balance by way of enhanced plantar tactile stimulation. However, to date, this has not been explored in older people at risk of falling. This study investigated the immediate effect of wearing textured insoles on gait and double‐limb standing balance in older fallers.

Methods

Thirty older adults >65 years (21 women, mean [SD] age 79.0 [7.1]), with self‐reported history of ≥2 falls in the previous year, conducted tests of level‐ground walking over 10 m (GAITRite system), and double‐limb standing with eyes open and eyes closed over 30 seconds (Kistler force platform) under two conditions: wearing textured insoles (intervention) and smooth (control) insoles in their usual footwear.

Results

Wearing textured insoles caused significantly lower gait velocity (P = 0.02), step length (P = 0.04) and stride length (P = 0.03) compared with wearing smooth insoles. No significant differences were found in any of the balance parameters (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

A textured insole worn by older adults with a history of falls significantly lowers gait velocity, step length and stride length, suggesting that this population may not have an immediate benefit from this type of intervention. The effects of prolonged wear remain to be investigated.
Interleukin-6 regulates anti-arthritic effect of methotrexate via reduction of SLC19A1 expression in a mouse arthritis model
Authors: Hashizume Misato , Yoshida Hiroto , Tanaka Keisuke , Suzuki Miho , Matsumoto Isao , Sumida Takayuki , Mihara Masahiko
Published: April 2012

Introduction

Methotrexate (MTX) enters cells via the reduced folate carrier SLC19A1, suggesting that SLC19A1 is associated with the efficacy of MTX. We here examined the relationship between the efficacy of MTX and the expression of SLC19A1 in glucose 6-phosphate isomerase (GPI)-induced arthritis. We found that interleukin-6 (IL-6) regulated the expression of SLC19A1, so we studied the effect of a combination of MTX and anti-mouse IL-6 receptor antibody (MR16-1).

Methods

GPI-induced arthritis was induced by intradermal immunization with recombinant GPI. MTX was given from the first day of immunization. Mice were injected once with MR16-1 10 days after immunization. The levels of SLC19A1 mRNA in whole hind limbs and immune cells were measured. Synovial cells from arthritic mice were cultured with cytokines, and cell proliferation and gene expressions were measured.

Results

MTX inhibited the development of GPI-induced arthritis; however, the efficacy of MTX gradually diminished. SLC19A1 expression in immunized mice with arthritis was lower than in intact mice; moreover, SLC19A1 expression in arthritic mice was further decreased when they were treated with MTX. IL-6 was highly expressed in whole hind limbs of arthritic mice. In an in vitro study using synovial cells from arthritic mice, IL-6 + soluble IL-6 receptor (sIL-6R) weakened the anti-proliferative effect of MTX and reduced SLC19A1 expression. Finally, although MR16-1 did not improve arthritis at all when administered on day 10, MTX in combination with MR16-1 more potently reduced the development of arthritis than did MTX alone. When used in combination with MTX, MR16-1 apparently reversed the decrease in SLC19A1 induced by MTX alone.

Conclusions

In the present study, we demonstrated for the first time that IL-6 reduced the efficacy of MTX by decreasing the expression of SLC19A1, which is important for MTX uptake into cells.
Exploration for a cave by magnetic and electrical resistivity surveys: Ayvacık Sinkhole example, Bozdağ, İzmir (western Turkey)
Authors: Balkaya Çağlayan , Göktürkler Gökhan , Erhan Zülfikar , Levent Ekinci Yunus
Published: April 2012

Geophysical survey techniques have been successfully applied to near-surface cave detection in karstic terrains. We used magnetic and electrical resistivity surveys to delineate the karstic structure of the Ayvacık Sinkhole, which may be considered to be a vertical cave. The magnetic-total-field-anomaly map helped reveal the metamorphic and sedimentary units in the study area. The total-horizontal-gradient map, which was based on a calculated pseudogravity anomaly, successfully identified the contact between the limestone unit and the cave system. Using these results, we positioned and carried out a vertical electrical sounding (VES) survey with a Schlumberger array along a line that consisted of 11 stations. The VES data were then processed using a 1D global optimization technique, which used a genetic algorithm and a 2D linearized least-squares algorithm. The results were generally in good agreement with each other, and together they pointed out three geologic layers: (1) an overburden layer ([Formula: see text]), (2) an approximately 25-m-thick alluvial fill (100–316 Ωm), and (3) a limestone unit (316–3162 Ωm); and also suggested the existence of a high-resistive anomaly ([Formula: see text]), possibly a karstic cave, located at the depth of approximately 40 m. Also, the results suggested that the buried limestone unit had an undulating karstic topography including a probable pinnacle structure. A synthetic modeling study was carried out, and it validated the reliability of the results. Finally, our findings indicated that the geophysical survey techniques used here were successful in detecting a cave located deep enough to make human exploration difficult.
Moveout analysis of wide-azimuth data in the presence of lateral velocity variation
Authors: Takanashi Mamoru , Tsvankin Ilya
Published: April 2012

Moveout analysis of wide-azimuth reflection data seldom takes into account lateral velocity variations on the scale of spreadlength. However, velocity lenses (such as channels and reefs) in the overburden can cause significant, laterally varying errors in the moveout parameters and distortions in data interpretation. Here, we present an analytic expression for the normal-moveout (NMO) ellipse in stratified media with lateral velocity variation. The contribution of lateral heterogeneity (LH) is controlled by the second derivatives of the interval vertical traveltime with respect to the horizontal coordinates, along with the depth and thickness of the LH layer. This equation provides a quick estimate of the influence of velocity lenses and can be used to substantially mitigate the lens-induced distortions in the effective and interval NMO ellipses. To account for velocity lenses in nonhyperbolic moveout inversion of wide-azimuth data, we propose a prestack correction algorithm that involves computation of the lens-induced traveltime distortion for each recorded trace. The overburden is assumed to be composed of horizontal layers (one of which contains the lens), but the target interval can be laterally heterogeneous with dipping or curved interfaces. Synthetic tests for horizontally layered models confirm that our algorithm accurately removes lens-related azimuthally varying traveltime shifts and errors in the moveout parameters. The developed methods should increase the robustness of seismic processing of wide-azimuth surveys, especially those acquired for fracture-characterization purposes.
Clouds, clocks and policy dynamics: a path-(inter)dependent analysis of EU cohesion policy
Authors: Mendez Carlos
Published: April 2012

Recognising the limitations of existing conceptualisations of path dependence, this article advances a ‘path-interdependent’ approach to account for endogenous policy change by incorporating a more central role for agency through learning and problem-solving mechanisms. Additionally, it argues that monolithic conceptualisations of institutions should be unpacked to reveal their configurative elements. In doing so, attention is drawn to the way in which intra-policy dynamics may generate pressures for change and to the possibility for the mutual existence and co-evolution of continuity and change. These arguments are illustrated empirically through two cases of radical reform in European Union (EU) cohesion policy.
The politics of educational policy making under New Labour: an illustration of shifts in public service governance
Authors: Exley Sonia
Published: April 2012

This article draws on data from a study carried out on the evolution of specialist schools under New Labour in England in order to illustrate changes in educational governance. Shifts in policy-making power are highlighted, away from increasingly marginalised traditional corporatist partners, towards ‘denocracy’ (Seldon, 2004) or greater political centralisation. ‘Presidentialisation’ under Prime Minister Tony Blair was accompanied by fast-growing policy networks, lending legitimacy to centralised policy ideas while intensifying connections and blurring lines between state and non-state. However, while spaces and sites for policy activity became more extensive, they remained exclusive, with insiders and outsiders clearly defined.
The role of ideas and institutional change in Finnish public sector reform
Authors: Niemelä Mikko , Saarinen Arttu
Published: April 2012

This article explores institutional change and the role of ideas in Finnish public sector reform from the late 1970s to 2007. The main purpose of the study is to explore the ideas advanced in favour of legislative reforms – what have been the objectives behind them and to what extent have the objectives and arguments changed. The analysis illustrates that there have been ideational changes behind the public sector reforms and that they have served as policy blueprints, ideological weapons and cognitive locks. The article shows that ideas are an important locus of policy development and a source of institutional change.
‘Choice is a small word with a huge meaning’: autonomy and decision making at the end of life
Authors: Sutton Eileen , Coast Joanna
Published: April 2012

The United Kingdom (UK) End-of-Life Care Strategy, published in June 2008, recommends the identification, documentation and review of people's preferences for care and highlights the importance of choice at an individual level. Drawing on data from a qualitative research study, this article reflects on the complex range of interconnected factors impacting on older people's preferences and decision-making processes at the end of life. As older people consider not only themselves but also the impact on loved ones when making decisions, the pertinence of a relational conceptualisation of autonomy is considered. The impact of structural issues on the realisation of preferences is also explored.
Replication, Neurotropism, and Pathogenicity of Avian Paramyxovirus Serotypes 1–9 in Chickens and Ducks
Authors: Kim Shin-Hee , Xiao Sa , Shive Heather , Collins Peter L. , Samal Siba K.
Published: April 2012

Avian paramyxovirus (APMV) serotypes 1–9 have been isolated from many different avian species. APMV-1 (Newcastle disease virus) is the only well-characterized serotype, because of the high morbidity, mortality, and economic loss caused by highly virulent strains. Very little is known about the pathogenesis, replication, virulence, and tropism of the other APMV serotypes. Here, this was evaluated for prototypes strains of APMV serotypes 2–9 in cell culture and in chickens and ducks. In cell culture, only APMV-1, -3 and -5 induced syncytium formation. In chicken DF1 cells, APMV-3 replicated with an efficiency approaching that of APMV-1, while APMV-2 and -5 replicated to lower, intermediate titers and the others were much lower. Mean death time (MDT) assay in chicken eggs and intracerebral pathogenicity index (ICPI) test in 1-day-old SPF chicks demonstrated that APMV types 2–9 were avirulent. Evaluation of replication in primary neuronal cells in vitro as well as in the brains of 1-day-old chicks showed that, among types 2–9, only APMV-3 was neurotropic, although this virus was not neurovirulent. Following intranasal infection of 1-day-old and 2-week-old chickens, replication of APMV types 2–9 was mostly restricted to the respiratory tract, although APMV-3 was neuroinvasive and neurotropic (but not neurovirulent) and also was found in the spleen. Experimental intranasal infection of 3-week-old mallard ducks with the APMVs did not produce any clinical signs (even for APMV-1) and exhibited restricted viral replication of the APMVs (including APMV-1) to the upper respiratory tract regardless of their isolation source, indicating avirulence of APMV types 1–9 in mallard ducks. The link between the presence of a furin cleavage site in the F protein, syncytium formation, systemic spread, and virulence that has been well-established with APMV-1 pathotypes was not evident with the other APMV serotypes.
Geographic divergence in a species‐rich symbiosis: interactions between Monterey pines and ectomycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Hoeksema Jason D. , Hernandez Jesus Vargas , Rogers Deborah L. , Mendoza Luciana Luna , Thompson John N.
Published: April 2012

A key problem in evolutionary biology is to understand how multispecific networks are reshaped by evolutionary and coevolutionary processes as they spread across contrasting environments. To address this problem, we need studies that explicitly evaluate the multispecific guild structure of coevolutionary processes and some of their key outcomes such as local adaptation. We evaluated geographic variation in interactions between most extant native populations of Monterey pine (Pinus radiata) and the associated resistant‐propagule community (RPC) of ectomycorrhizal (EM) fungi, using a reciprocal cross‐inoculation experiment with all factorial combinations of plant genotypes and soils with fungal guilds from each population. Our results suggest that the pine populations have diverged in community composition of their RPC fungi, and have also diverged genetically in several traits related to interactions of seedlings with particular EM fungi, growth, and biomass allocation. Patterns of genetic variation among pine populations for compatibility with EM fungi differed for the three dominant species of EM fungi, suggesting that Monterey pines can evolve differently in their compatibility with different symbiont species.
Does agricultural food provide a good alternative to a natural diet for body store deposition in geese?
Authors: Eichhorn G. , Meijer H. A. J. , Oosterbeek K. , Klaassen M.
Published: April 2012

Over the past decades most goose populations have become increasingly dependent on agricultural crops during wintering and migration periods. The suitability of agricultural crops to support all nutritional requirements of migratory geese for the deposition of body stores has been questioned; feeding on agricultural crops may yield higher rates of fat deposition at the cost of reduced protein accretion due to an unbalanced diet. We compared amino‐acid composition of forage, and investigated food‐habitat use and dynamics and composition of body stores deposited by barnacle geese feeding on agricultural pasture and in natural salt marsh during spring migratory preparation. Overall content and composition of amino acids was similar among forage from both habitats and appeared equally suitable for protein accretion. There was no relationship between body composition of geese and their preferred food habitat. Fat and wet protein contributed with 67% and 33%, respectively, to body stores gained at a rate of 11 g/d throughout the one‐month study period. We found no evidence of impaired protein accretion in geese using agricultural grassland compared to natural salt marsh. Our study supports the hypothesis that the expansion of feeding habitat by including agricultural grassland has played an important role in the recent growth of the East Atlantic flyway population of barnacle geese and other herbivorous waterbirds. Feeding refuges of improved grassland provide geese with an adequate diet for the deposition of body stores crucial for spring migration and subsequent reproduction, thereby alleviating the conflict with agriculture.
The role of a lowland reservoir in the transport of micropollutants, nutrients and the suspended particulate matter along the river continuum
Authors: Urbaniak Magdalena , Kiedrzyńska Edyta , Zalewski Maciej
Published: April 2012

The water and sediment samples from the Sulejow Reservoir and Pilica River (Central Poland) were analysed for nutrients: total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN) and the suspended particulate matter (SPM) and dioxin-like PCBs (dl-PCBs) concentration. Dl-PCBs were detected in sediments from all seven sampling locations with mean concentrations of 14.29 ng kg−1 dry weight (d.w.). The lowest concentration was recorded in the sediment collected below the Sulejow Reservoir (PR5; 2.92 ng kg−1 d.w.) and the highest in the sample collected from the mouth section of the Pilica River (PR7; 26.30 ng kg−1 d.w.). The 29% reduction of the total dl-PCBs concentration – from 9.21 ng kg−1 d.w. in the middle section to 6.54 ng kg−1 d.w. in the dam section of the Sulejow Reservoir – demonstrated the hydraulic transport and deposition of measured pollutants in the reservoir's sediments. The results obtained also revealed the reduction of nutrients and the SPM concentrations. A 45% reduction of SPM, 28% reduction of TP and 34% of TN was observed between the water inflow and outflow from the Sulejow Reservoir.
High-accuracy mapping of inundations induced by ice jams: a case study from Iceland
Authors: Pagneux Emmanuel , Snorrason Árni
Published: April 2012

Hydraulic modelling is widely used for deriving flood hazard maps featuring depth of flooding and flow velocity from discharge scenarios. Due to uncertainties about flow conditions or inaccurate terrain models, flood hazards maps obtained from hydraulic modelling may be of limited relevance and accuracy. Hydraulic modelling is particularly challenging in Arctic regions, where ice jams lead to flooding in areas that would not be subjected to inundation under open-water conditions. As numerical models of ice jam processes require information that may be difficult and expensive to collect, an alternative approach based on the photo interpretation of documented historical events is presented here. Orthophotographs and a digital elevation model at high resolution are used to support the photo interpretation process. Tested in an Icelandic watershed prone to ice jam floods, reconstructions provide locally unprecedented and robust information on the extent and depth of flooding of inundations induced by ice jams.
Scale issues for assessment of nutrient leaching from agricultural land in Latvia
Authors: Lagzdins Ainis , Jansons Viesturs , Sudars Ritvars , Abramenko Kaspars
Published: April 2012

This paper deals with water quality assessment and recommendations for a classification system based on nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) concentrations. In order to evaluate the influence of agricultural intensity, climate and hydrology on water quality, the long-term data (from 1995 to 2009) collected in three Latvian diffuse pollution monitoring sites (Berze, Mellupite and Vienziemite) were analysed. Measurements were carried out within areas where agriculture was the main source of diffuse nutrient loading at four spatial scales, i.e. experimental plot, drainage field, small catchment and river. The available long-term data series shows large variations in nutrient concentrations, depending on the intensity of agricultural production system and the scale of measurements. The concentrations of total N are higher at the plot scale, decreasing when the spatial scale of measurements increase. The proposed simplified classification system (five classes) was based upon the assumption that good chemical status for rivers in agricultural areas represent concentrations of total N < 1.5 mg L−1 and total P < 0.075 mg L−1, while in small catchments total N < 2.5 mg L−1 and total P < 0.050 mg L−1 and in subsurface drainage water total N < 5.5 mg L−1 and total P < 0.020 mg L−1.
Effects of karst processes on surface water and groundwater hydrology at Skaistkalne Vicinity, Latvia
Authors: Delina Aija , Babre Alise , Popovs Konrads , Sennikovs Juris , Grinberga Baiba
Published: April 2012

The Skaistkalne area in Latvia is one of the places where karst processes in gypsum strata occurs. The Iecava and Memele rivers border the area with extensive surface karst features such as sinkholes and karst lakes. Earlier investigations suggested a hydraulic connection between the Iecava and Memele rivers exists via the karst conduits due to the water level (WL) difference in the rivers. A set of methods was performed to study the possible connection: dye tracer was applied in the Iecava river and its occurrence was visually observed at the karst lakes and Memele river; the current velocity was measured and discharge of rivers calculated at several profiles; surface water and groundwater composition was studied involving in situ measurements of water pH and electrical conductivity, water sampling and chemical analysis of the water samples on the content of sulphates, calcium and magnesium ions. A numerical finite element 3D groundwater flow model was developed to assess the impact of WL changes in rivers to groundwater flow. The study showed that there is direct hydraulic connection between the rivers – water from the Iecava river flows to the Memele river. The groundwater discharge to the Memele river varies seasonally, and more intensive groundwater discharge is observed during the high season.
Nutrient retention and export to surface waters in Lithuanian and Estonian river basins
Authors: Povilaitis Arvydas , Stålnacke Per , Vassiljev Anatoly
Published: April 2012

The statistical model MESAW was applied to simultaneously estimate export coefficients and retention of nutrients in four Lithuanian and three Estonian river basins (range 946–8,388 km2). This modelling approach uses non-linear regression to yield the export coefficients for total nitrogen and total phosphorus losses to surface waters, considering different land-use classes and retention of nutrients in the river network. The model was applied to data from 40 water quality monitoring sites and corresponding sub-basin data on land use, point sources and atmospheric deposition. The results showed that the studied river basins had a high nutrient retention capacity: 67–78 and 24–63% of total nitrogen and total phosphorus inputs remained in surface waters. The estimated retention was large in lakes: 27–59% for nitrogen and 11–31% for phosphorus. In-stream retention was apparently much lower, in the range 11–15% for total N and 3–12% for total P. Retention in lakes was lower in Estonia than in Lithuania due to the locations and smaller areas of the lakes in the Estonian basins. In Estonia, the highest relative retention in lakes was 46% for nitrogen and 35% for phosphorus. In-stream retention was also somewhat lower than in Lithuania, possibly because of the lower temperature in Estonian rivers in summer.
Scenarios for reduction of nutrient load from point sources in Estonia
Authors: Pachel Karin , Klõga Marija , Iital Arvo
Published: April 2012

This study aimed to develop scenarios for a further decrease of point source nutrient load in Estonia to achieve the nutrient reduction target levels set up by the HELCOM Baltic Sea Action Plan produced in 2007. A possible reduction in the total phosphorus (TP) and total nitrogen (TN) load has been assessed based on the requirements set up by Estonian and EU legislation as well as the HELCOM recommendations. Scenarios were developed for four urban pollution load classes with different requirements for waste water quality at the outlet of the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The results revealed that the load of TP and TN to the sea and to inland surface water bodies can be reduced by 68 and 352 tonnes, respectively, when following the most stringent HELCOM recommendation for the quality of sewerage outlets. These possibly reduced loads form only about 30% of required TP and 40% of TN annual reduction levels in Estonia which are 220 tons of phosphorus and 900 tons of nitrogen. Therefore, further decrease can mostly be made possible by lowering the diffuse load and that can also be problematic.
Stereospecific ligands and their complexes - Part XIV: Crystal structure of O,O’-dipropyl ester of (S,S)-ethylenediamine-N,N’-di-2-(4-methyl)-pentanoic acid dihydrochloride
Authors: Vujic Jelena , Garsia-Granda Santiago , Menėndeztaboada Laura , Novakovic Sladjana , Trifunovic Srecko
Published: April 2012

Bidentate N,N'-ligand precursor, O,O'-dipropyl ester of (S,S)-
ethylenediamine-N,N'-di-2-(4-methyl)-pentanoic acid dihydrochloride, [(S,S)-
H4eddl]Cl2, was prepared and its crystal structure is given herein. It
crystallizes in a P42 space group of tetragonal crystal system with a =
16.5620 (2) ?, b = 16.5620 (2) ?, c = 5.2240 (1) ? and Z = 2.
Assessment of species and quantity of biomass in Serbia and guidelines of usage
Authors: Brkic Miladin , Janic Todor , Igic Sasa
Published: April 2012

The motivation for this study is the disagreement of statistical and
literature data about potential quantities of biomass in Serbia. This
difference is mainly caused by changed status in practice due to several
reasons: changes in ownership caused by transition, different application of
technologies in practices, organization of work and economic reasons. The
main aim is to precisely establish sorts and amounts of organic biomass in
Serbia that can be transformed into heat and electricity. So far, data about
the quantities of biomass residues in agriculture, forestry and communal
services have been collected and published. Data collection methods are
different and generally based on statistical data. The paper explains in
detail methods of data collection and processing of crop production, fruit
growing and viticulture, livestock, forestry and communal services. On the
basis of precise data collection, it has been established that there are 26.3
million tons of biomass residue in Serbia every year. The total amount of
biomass is reduced by 20-30% in relation to the period of 10 and more years
ago. On the basis of the situation in agriculture and forest production in
Serbia, it is estimated that out of the total amount of biomass, some 30-40%
can be used for the production of heat energy, electricity and biofuel. The
remaining biomass can be used in order to increase soil fertility, as cattle
spread, for vegetable production, means for polishing in metal industry, for
insulation in civil engineering, in cosmetics industry, production of animal
feed, and so on.
New directions in development of city energy systems
Authors: Crncevic Branko
Published: April 2012

At the world level, the 20th century saw an increase from 220 million
urbanites in 1900 to 2.84 billion in year 2000. The present century will
match this absolute increase in about four decades. Developing regions, as a
whole, will account for 93% of this growth [1]. Until now humankind has lived
and worked primarily in rural areas. But the world is about to leave its
rural past behind. Today we are witness, for the first time, that more than
half of the globe?s population is living in towns and cities. The number and
proportion of urban dwellers will continue to rise quickly. Urban population
will grow to 4.9 billion by 2030. At the global level, all of future
population growth will be in towns and cities [1]. Two centuries ago there
was only one city on the planet that could say it had a million inhabitants -
that was London. Today more than 400 cities can boast that - 408 to be
precise, according to the Earth Policy Institute. But today a population of 1
million people means nothing; we are moving into the era of megacities of 10
million (and more) people. Today, there are 20 so-called megacities, whose
population, and therefore energy needs, easily exceed some countries
population, according to Earth Policy Institute. More people now live in
Tokyo than Canada, for example [2]. Despite only occupying 2% of the world's
surface area, they are responsible for 75% of the world's energy consumption.
New technologies in the production of motor fuels from renewable materials
Authors: Adnadjevic Borivoj
Published: April 2012

This work presents resources of the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina
available for bioethanol and motor fuels (gasoline and diesel fuel) from
sustainable resources: corn-stalks, straw, sweet sorghum, pork fat. The
physicochemical basis for novel processes for motor fuel production is
coupling microwave pyrolysis of oil shale and catalytic cracking of purified
pyrolysis oil, hydrothermal liquefaction of algae and swine manure. The
effects of the degree of purification of crude pyrolysis oil and oil shale on
the degree of their conversion to gasoline and diesel fuel, as well as the
product distribution are investigated. The effects of the duration and
temperature of hydrothermal liquefaction of microalga, Botryoccocus braunii,
and swine manure on their degrees of conversion into bio-oil and its thermal
properties are investigated. The development of novel strategy of biofuel in
the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina is presented.
Control of the lighting system using a genetic algorithm
Authors: Congradac Velimir , Milosavljevic Bosko , Velickovic Jovan , Prebiracevic Bogdan
Published: April 2012

The manufacturing, distribution and use of electricity are of fundamental
importance for the social life and they have the biggest influence on the
environment associated with any human activity. The energy needed for
building lighting makes up 20-40% of the total consumption. This paper
displays the development of the mathematical model and genetic algorithm for
the control of dimmable lighting on problems of regulating the level of
internal lighting and increase of energetic efficiency using daylight. A
series of experiments using the optimization algorithm on the realized model
confirmed very high savings in electricity consumption.
Covering of heating load of object by using ground heat as a renewable energy source
Authors: Cenejac Aleksandra , Bjelakovic Radivoje , Andjelkovic Aleksandar , Djakovic Damir
Published: April 2012

Rational use of energy, improving energy performance of buildings and use of
renewable energy sources are the most important measures for reducing
consumption of non-renewable primary energy (solid, liquid, and gaseous
fuels), environmental protection and for the future sustainable development
of mankind. In the total primary energy consumption great part is related to
building industry, for heating spaces in which people stay and live.
Renewable energy sources (RES) present natural resources and they are one of
the alternatives that allow obtaining heat for heating buildings, and by that
they provide a significant contribution to the energy balance of a country.
This paper analyzes the participation of ground source as RES, when the
vertical (the probe in the ground) and horizontal (registry in the ground)
heat exchangers are used for covering heating load of the building.
Business process management in sustainable property/asset management by using the TotalObserver
Authors: Milosavljevic Bosko , Congradac Velimir , Velickovic Jovan , Prebiracevic Bogdan
Published: April 2012

The use of software became of great importance for successful facility and
property management worldwide, because of its possibilities for generating
savings in multiple areas and not just in operational areas and improving
business processes. This paper displays the growing facility and property
management market in Serbia and the software TotalObserver as a solution for
the emerging problems for this market. Case studies and operational use of
TotalObserver confirmed that significant savings can be generated by using
software for asset management.
In-grid solar-to-electrical energy conversion system modeling and testing
Authors: Corba Zoltan , Katic Vladimir , Dumnic Boris , Milicevic Dragan
Published: April 2012

In this study, a simulation model of in-grid solar-to-electrical energy
conversion system is presented. In this case, the in-grid solar-to-electrical
energy conversion system is small photovoltaic power plant, which was
constructed by the Center for Renewable Energy and Power Quality from Faculty
of Technical Sciences (FTS). Equivalent circuit diagram of photovoltaic cell
is described which was used to develop the simulation model of modules.
Possible types and topologies of inverters are also described. The
photovoltaic power plant is described briefly, because it is necessary to
understand the simulation model. The result of simulation is an electricity
annual production by the power plant. These results were compared with the
real values, while its get a good overlap. The paper also presents the modern
modeling methods developed at Faculty of Technical Sciences in the Laboratory
for RES systems.
Nuclear fundamentals remain
Authors: Stosic Zoran
Published: April 2012

For Japan, the situation has become extremely difficult since
counter-measures to deal with the nuclear accident had to be carried out
along with dealing with the broader disaster caused by earthquake and the
tsunami. In terms of damage, the Tohoku earthquake and the tsunami have
caused the most fatalities and the largest economic loss ever from an
earthquake and/or tsunami. The impact of this natural disaster is present not
only in Japan but world-wide. The state of affairs in the global energy
sector is affected by the consequences which may be lasting for decades.
These effects are subject of this article dealing not with the nuclear
accident at Fukushima Daiichi NPPs itself, but rather with the world-wide
consequences and after effect on nuclear energy development. This includes:
environmental damages, socio-economic effects, actions of safety authorities,
extended protective measures against external events, the impact on global
nuclear energy, triggered nuclear phase-outs and changes in new build plans
as well as the sustainability of energy mix itself and an outlook.
Reasons for heat demand changes and effects on planning and development of heating systems
Authors: Petrovic Jovan , Gvozdenac-Urosevic Branka , Polc Josip
Published: April 2012

Planning the development of heating systems in circumstances of dynamic
changes in the energy field is becoming very demanding from the aspect of
consideration and involvement all impacts on the future development. The
paper deals with a methodological approach towards the change of normatives
which includes future conditions for the development and changes of heat
energy consumption and possible scenario for the change of consumption in
Novi Sad within the boundaries of capacities for future construction. The
possible dynamics is determined and the projection of the existing
consumption growth in the conditions of increasingly stringent energy
circumstances for the further growth and strict energy requirements of
contemporary moment.
European Energy Law and its impact on Serbia progress, perspectives and possibilities
Authors: Reich Dietmar
Published: April 2012

The European Energy Law will have great impact on Serbia and its renewable
energy sector. The Energy Community is extending the European Union ("EU")
internal energy market to Southeast Europe and beyond on the ground of
legally binding treaty. Thus, Serbia, as a member of the Energy Community,
has been committed to implement the relevant EU regulations concerning the
energy sector step-by-step. Furthermore, the ability of Serbia to assume the
obligations of membership is evaluated on the basis of the implementation of
the EU Acquis. The energy sector? has been outlined by the European
Commission as one of the fields where Serbia will have to undertake
additional efforts to align with the acquis in the medium term. As the
European Council granted Serbia the candidate status in March 2012, the EU
will monitor the adoption of the EU Energy Acquis closely.
Center effect and other factors influencing temporization and shunting of cerebrospinal fluid in preterm infants with intraventricular hemorrhage
Authors: Riva-Cambrin Jay , Shannon Chevis N. , Holubkov Richard , Whitehead William E. , Kulkarni Abhaya V. , Drake James , Simon Tamara D. , Browd Samuel R. , Kestle John R. W. , Wellons John C.
Published: April 2012

Object

There is little consensus regarding the indications for surgical CSF diversion (either with implanted temporizing devices [reservoir or subgaleal shunt] or shunt alone) in preterm infants with posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus. The authors determined clinical and neuroimaging factors associated with the use of surgical CSF diversion among neonates with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), and describe variations in practice patterns across 4 large pediatric centers.

Methods

The use of implanted temporizing devices and conversion to permanent shunts was examined in a consecutive sample of 110 neonates surgically treated for IVH related to prematurity from the 4 clinical centers of the Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network (HCRN). Clinical, neuroimaging, and so-called processes of care factors were analyzed.

Results

Seventy-three (66%) of the patients underwent temporization procedures, including 50 ventricular reservoir and 23 subgaleal shunt placements. Center (p < 0.001), increasing ventricular size (p = 0.04), and bradycardia (p = 0.07) were associated with the use of an implanted temporizing device, whereas apnea, occipitofrontal circumference (OFC), and fontanel assessments were not. Implanted temporizing devices were converted to permanent shunts in 65 (89%) of the 73 neonates. Only a full fontanel (p < 0.001) and increased ventricular size (p = 0.002) were associated with conversion of the temporizing devices to permanent shunts, whereas center, OFCs, and clot characteristics were not.

Conclusions

Considerable center variability exists in neurosurgical approaches to temporization of IVH in prematurity within the HCRN; however, variation between centers is not seen with permanent shunting. Increasing ventricular size—rather than classic clinical findings such as increasing OFCs—represents the threshold for either temporization or shunting of CSF.
Tris(Hydrogensulfato)Boron Catalysed Rapid Synthesis of 2-Substituted-2,3-Dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-Ones under Solvent-Free Conditions
Authors: Karimi-Jaberi Zahed , Zarei Leila
Published: April 2012

Aldehydes or ketones react readily in one-pot with isatoic anhydride and ammonium salts in the presence of tris-(hydrogensulfato)boron to produce the corresponding 2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1 H)-ones in high yields under solvent-free conditions. The use of tris(hydrogensulfato)boron makes this process quite simple, more convenient and environmentally friendly. 2,3-Dihydroquinazolin-4(1 H)-one derivatives have interesting biological and pharmacological activities.
CuBr-Catalysed Oxidative Desulfurisation of Thiobenzamides
Authors: Cheng Dongping , Sun Ruirui , Yan Jizhong
Published: April 2012

An efficient oxidative desulfurisation of thioamides by CuBr/TBHP is reported. Thioamides containing alkyl or aryl on the nitrogen undergo desulfurisation and give amides with good yields. Thioamides not containing substituent on the nitrogen undergo desulfurisation and give 1,2,4-thiadiazoles in moderate to good yields.
Boron Trioxide–Alumina as a Heterogeneous Catalyst in a Facile Solvent Free One-Pot Synthesis of 3,4-Dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-Ones
Authors: Zhou Xufeng , Cheng Tianxing , Zheng Xiangyong , Ke Qiang , Wang Xuebao
Published: April 2012

B2O3/Al2O3 has been found to be a new and highly efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the one-pot synthesis of 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1 H)-ones by the Biginelli reaction under solvent-free conditions. 3,4-Dihydropyrimidin-2(1 H)-ones have important pharmacological and biological activities.
An Efficient One-Pot Synthesis of 3,4-Dihydropyrimidin-2-(1H)-Ones/Thiones Catalysed by 2-Thienylboronic Acid
Authors: Fu Zhenfang , Shen Tianhua , Du Zhiping , Qiao Zhiguo , Song Qingbao
Published: April 2012

A simple efficient one-pot three-component condensation for synthesis of 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2-( 1H)-ones/thiones in good to excellent yields using 2-thienylboronic acid as a catalyst was described.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure and DNA-Binding Properties of a Seven-Coordinate Ternary Cadmium(II) Complex Formed with Tripod Ligand Tris[2-(N-Ethyl)Benzimidazylmethyl)]Amine and Salicylate
Authors: Wu Huilu , Bai Ying , Yuan Jingkun , Wang Hua , Pan Guolong , Yu Gangqiang , Shu Xingbin
Published: April 2012

A ternary Cd(II) complex with a tripodal ligand tris[2-( N-ethyl)benzimidazylmethyl]amine (Etntb) and salicylate, [Cd (Etntb)(salicylate)(DMF)](NO3)·DMF, has been synthesised. Its crystal structure reveals that the central Cd(II) atom is seven-coordinated. The DNA-binding properties of the Cd(II) complex have been investigated by spectrophotometric methods and viscosity measurements, and the results suggest that the Cd(II) complex binds to DNA via an intercalation binding mode.
O-Acetylation: Synthesis of Acetylated Phenols from Aryl-Methyl Ethers Over Boron Alkoxides
Authors: Balaydın Halis T.
Published: April 2012

A new acetylation procedure has been applied to 13 aryl-methyl ethers using boron chemistry. In this procedure, demethylation of aryl-methyl ethers and acetylation of the resulting phenols were combined into one procedure in order to shorten the number of stages and to achieve easy purification. Eleven known with/without bromine and two new [bis(3,4-diacetoxyphenyl)methanone and 5,5'-methylenebis(1,2-diacetoxy-3,4-dibromobenzene) (a natural bromophenol's acetylated derivative)] acetylated arene compounds were synthesised from their methoxy derivatives by this method. The effectiveness of the method was illustrated by producing an acetylated natural bromophenol from its methyl ether. The phenol form was obtained by hydrolysing the acetylated natural bromophenol. Thus, the advantage of this method in the natural product chemistry of phenolic compounds was confirmed.
MCM-41-Immobilised Bidentate Nitrogen Platinum Complex: A Highly Efficient and Recyclable Phosphine-Free Catalytic System for the Hydrosilylation of Olefins
Authors: Zhang Hean , Liu Jiaqin , Cheng Shaojuan , Cai Mingzhong
Published: April 2012

An MCM-41-immobilised bidentate nitrogen platinum complex (MCM-41-2N-Pt) was very conveniently synthesised from commercially available and cheap 3-(2-aminoethylamino)propyltrimethoxysilane by immobilisation on the mesoporous silica nanoparticles, MCM-41, followed by reaction with potassium chloroplatinite. It was found that the MCM-41-2N-Pt complex is a highly efficient catalyst for the hydrosilylation of olefins with triethoxysilane and can be easily recovered and reused several times without significant loss of activity.
Machinic Animism
Authors: Melitopoulos Angela , Lazzarato Maurizio
Published: April 2012

This catalogue essay is based on a series of interviews conducted by the authors with international scholars who were asked to reflect on Guattari's scattered comments concerning animism. Interviewees are: Eduardo Viveiros de Castro (anthropologist, Museu Nacional, Rio de Janeiro), Eric Alliez (philosopher, Paris), Jean Claude Polack (psychoanalyst, Paris), Barbara Glowczewski (anthropologist, Paris), Peter Pál Pelbart (philosopher, São Paolo) Janja Rosangela Araujo (master of Capoeira Angola, and professor, Salvador de Bahia) and Jean Jacques Lebel (artist, Paris). Animism was thought by Guattari in relation to a number of themes and places in excess of religion and ritual but in the context of the shattering of capitalism.
Bed Bug (Cimex lectularius L.) Population Composition as Determined by Baited Traps
Authors: Schaafsma Elizabeth J. , Hapke Samuel D. , Banfield Michael G.
Published: April 2012

Two established field populations of bed bugs were sampled using host-mimicking traps baited with a combination of CO2, heat and a synthetic kairomone. The proportion of first instar nymphs (between 52% and 78% of all captured insects) was significantly higher than reported in previous studies, which had employed different sampling methods. The proportion of adults was correspondingly much lower than previously reported, between 5% and 7% of total capture. As many as 120 bed bugs were captured in a single trap in one night; the variation in catches between sampling locations within the same room and between days at the same location indicates that multiple nights of trapping may be required to obtain an accurate representation of population structure.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Some Pyrazole Derivatives
Authors: Sharshira Essam Mohamed , Hamada Nagwa Mohamed Mahrous
Published: April 2012

Reaction of a series of (E)-3-phenyl-4-(p-substituted phenyl)-3-buten-2-ones with p-sulfamylphenyl hydrazine in glacial acetic acid gave the corresponding hydrazones, subsequent treatment of which with 30% HCl afforded pyrazole-1-sulphonamides. On the other hand, refluxing of chalcones with either thiosemicarbazide or isonicotinic acid hydrazide in ethanol containing a few drops of acetic acid gave pyrazoline-1-thiocarboxamides and isonicotinoyl pyrazolines, respectively. The structures of the synthesized compounds were determined on the basis of their elemental analyses and spectroscopic data. The antimicrobial activity of the newly isolated heterocyclic compounds was evaluated against Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria and fungi. Most of the compounds showed a moderate degree of potent antimicrobial activity.