bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accurate Phase Calibration for Digital Beam-Forming in Multi-Transceiver HF Radar System
Authors: Nguyen Hung Q. , Whittington Jim S. , Devlin John C. , Vu Ha L. , Vu Ngoc-Vinh , Custovic Eddie
Published: December 2013

The TIGER-3 radar is being developed as an “all digital” radar with 20 integrated digital transceivers, each connected to a separate antenna. Using phased array antenna techniques, radiated power is steered towards a desired direction based on the relative phases within the array elements. This paper proposes an accurate phase measurement method to calibrate the phases of the radio output signals using Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) technology. The method sequentially measures the phase offset between the RF signal generated by each transceiver and a reference signal operated at the same frequency. Accordingly, the transceiver adjusts its phase in order to align to the reference phase. This results in accurately aligned phases of the RF output signals and with the further addition of appropriate phase offsets, digital beamforming (DBF) can be performed steering the beam in a desired direction. The proposed method is implemented on a Virtex-5 VFX70T device. Experimental results show that the calibration accuracy is of 0.153 degrees with 14 MHz operating frequency.
Geochronology of the Neogene intrusive magmatism of the Oaș—Gutâi Mountains, Eastern Carpathians (NW Romania)
Authors: Kovacs Marinel , Pécskay Zoltán , Fülöp Alexandrina , Jurje Maria , Edelstein Oscar
Published: December 2013

Earlier geological work in the Oaș-Gutâi Mts (OG), Eastern Carpathians, has revealed the extensive presence of shallow subvolcanic intrusive bodies, both exposed on the surface and covered by Paleogene-Neogene sedimentary sequences and Neogene volcanic formations. This study is based on detailed mapping and sampling of the OG Neogene intrusive magmatic rocks. Thirty seven representative intrusions (sills, dykes, microlaccoliths, etc.) were selected for radiometric dating. These intrusions show a wide variety of petrographic rock-types: from microgabbros to microgranodiorites and from basalts to andesites. However, the intrusions consist of typical calc-alkaline, medium-K rocks, similar to the volcanic rocks which outcrop in the same areas. The K-Ar age determinations on whole-rock samples of intrusions yielded ages between 11.9 Ma and 7.0 Ma (from Late Sarmatian to Middle Pannonian). The results are in good agreement with the common assumption, based on the biostratigraphic and geological data, that large volumes of intrusions have formed during the paroxysm of the intermediate volcanic activity in the OG. Except for the Firiza basalt intrusive complex of the Gutâi Mts (8.1-7.0 Ma), the OG intrusions show similar K-Ar ages as the intrusions of the “Subvolcanic Zone” and Călimani Mts from Eastern Carpathians. The timing of the OG intrusive magmatism partially overlaps with the timing of the intrusive magmatic activity in the Eastern Moravia and Pieniny Mts. The systematic radiometric datings in the whole OG give clear evidence that the hydrothermal activity related to the epithermal systems always postdates intrusion emplacement.
Laser Reflectance Interferometry System with a 405 Nm Laser Diode for in Situ Measurements of CVD Diamond Thickness
Authors: Kraszewski Maciej , Bogdanowicz Robert
Published: December 2013

In situ monitoring of the thickness of thin diamond films during technological processes is important because it allows better control of deposition time and deeper understanding of deposition kinetics. One of the widely used techniques is laser reflectance interferometry (LRI) which enables non-contact measurement during CVD deposition. The authors have built a novel LRI system with a 405 nm laser diode which achieves better resolution compared to the systems based on He-Ne lasers, as reported so far. The system was used for in situ monitoring of thin, microcrystalline diamond films deposited on silicon substrate in PA-CVD processes. The thickness of each film was measured by stylus profilometry and spectral reflectance analysis as a reference. The system setup and interferometric signal processing are also presented for evaluating the system parameters, i.e. measurement uncertainty, resolution and the range of measurable film thickness.
Passive UHF RFID-Enabled Sensor System For Detection Of Product’S Exposure To Elevated Temperature
Authors: Janeczek Kamil , Jakubowska Małgorzata , Kozioł Grażyna , Jankowski-Mihułowicz Piotr
Published: December 2013

Temperature change is one of key factors which should be taken into account in logistics during transportation or storage of many types of goods. In this study, a passive UHF RFID-enabled sensor system for elevated temperature (above 58°C) detection has been demonstrated. This system consists of an RFID reader and disposable temperature sensor comprising an UHF antenna, chip and temperature sensitive unit. The UHF antenna was designed and simulated in an IE3D software. The properties of the system were examined depending on the temperature level, type of package which contains the studied objects and the type of antenna substrate.
Silicon Photomultiplier Gain Compensation Algorithm in Multidetector Measurements
Authors: Baszczyk Mateusz , Dorosz Piotr , Głąb Sebastian , Kucewicz Wojciech , Mik Łukasz , Sapor Maria
Published: December 2013

The paper stresses the issue of strong temperature influence on the gain of a Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM). High sensitivity of the detector to light (single photons) requires stable parameters during measurement, including gain. The paper presents a method of compensating the change of gain caused by temperature variations, by adjusting a suitable voltage bias provided by a precise power module. The methodology of the research takes in account applications with a large number of SiPMs (20 thousand), explains the challenges and presents the results of the gain stabilization algorithm.
Single-molecule FRET for Ultrasensitive Detection of Biomolecules
Authors: Yang Kun , Yang Yong , Zhang Chun-yang
Published: December 2013

Single-molecule Förster resonance energy transfer (sm- FRET) has been widely employed to detect biomarkers and to probe the structure and dynamics of biomolecules. By monitoring the biological reaction in a spatio-temporal manner, smFRET can reveal the transient intermediates of biological processes that cannot be obtained by conventional ensemble measurements. This review provides an overview of singlemolecule FRET and its applications in ultrasensitive detection of biomolecules, including the major techniques and the molecular probes used for smFRET as well as the biomedical applications of smFRET. Especially, the combination of sm- FRET with new technologies might expand its applications in clinical diagnosis and biomedical research
Diversity of microfungi on branches of Castanea sativa in Slovakia
Authors: Adamčíková Katarína , Juhásová Gabriela , Kobza Marek , Ondrušková Emília
Published: December 2013

Localities in Castanea sativa Mill. plantations were visited in a study aimed at identifying the mycoflora of C. sativa in Slovakia [excluding Cryphonectria parasitica (Murr.), Barr for which much data is available]. Samples from chestnut tree branches and stems were examined visually and microscopically. Seven species of microfungi were recorded, three with their anamorphs. Coryneum modonium (Sacc.) Griffon & Maubl. and Phomopsis castaneae Woron. were the most common. Libertella quercina Tul. & C. Tul. was identified in both states (anamorph and teleomorph) at two new localities. The records of Gloniopsis praelonga (Schwein.) Underw. & Earle and Dothidotthia celtidis (Ellis & Everh.) M. E. Barr are the first for Slovakia. These species were rare, found only in one locality. Two microscopic fungi were detected: Valsa ambiens (Pers.) Fr. [Cytospora ambiens (Nitschke) Sacc.] and Diplodina castaneae Prill. & Delacr.
Subgenus Fissidens in tropical Eastern Africa with emphasis on the Tanzanian collections by Tamás Pócs
Authors: Bruggeman-Nannenga Maria Alida
Published: December 2013

Illustrated revision of Fissidens subgenus Fissidens in tropical eastern Africa. Fissidens artsii Brugg.-Nann. is newly reported from Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda; F. gomae P. de la Varde & J.-F. Leroy to Uganda and F. leucocinctus Hampe to Angola; F. magnicellulatus Brugg.-Nann., F. pachylomadelphus Demaret & P. de la Varde, F. robynsianus P. de la Varde, F. rotereaui P. de la Varde and F. taylorii Müll. Hal. are new to Tanzania. The last is also new for Africa. The following taxonomic changes are proposed: Fissidens androgynus Bruch in Krauss (F. simensis Schimp. ex Müll. Hal., syn. nov., F. longipes Welw. & Duby, syn. nov., F. subremotifolius Müll. Hal., syn. nov., F. gueinzii Müll. Hal., syn. nov., F. malaco-bryoides Müll. Hal., syn. nov., F. obsoletidens Müll. Hal. var. schistophila Broth., syn. nov., F. platybryoides Müll. Hal. var. subimmarginatus Dixon, syn. nov., F. crateris Dixon, syn. nov., F. crateris Dixon var. sererekae Dixon, syn. nov.), Fissidens crispus Mont. (F. hoeegii P. de la Varde syn. nov. and F. cataractarum Demaret & P. de la Varde, syn. nov.). Reinstatements: F. pachylomadelphus Demaret & P. de la Varde and F. rotereaui P. de la Varde (confirmed synonym Fissidens schelpei P. de la Varde).
A small world: Uncovering hidden diversity in Frullania – a new species from Aotearoa-New Zealand
Authors: Konrat Matt von , Lange Peter de , Larraín Juan , Hentschel Jörn , Carter Benjamin , Shaw Jon , Shaw Blanka
Published: December 2013

Frullania is a large and taxonomically complex genus. Here a new Frullania, F. toropuku von Konrat, de Lange & Larraín, sp. nov. is described from New Zealand. Frullania toropuku is placed in F. subg. Microfrullania. The new species is readily recognised by a combination of morphological characters associated with branching, the perianth, sexuality, and sporophyte, which distinguish it from all other New Zealand and regional species of Frullania. However, morphologically F. toropuku most closely resembles the widespread F. rostrata, which might well be regarded as a Southern Hemisphere equivalent of the Holarctic F. tamarisci species-complex in terms of its cryptic diversity. A combination of morphological characters associated with branching, the perianth, sexuality, and sporophyte distinguish F. toropuku from all other New Zealand and regional species of Frullania. A comparison is made between F. toropuku and morphologically allied species of botanical regions outside the New Zealand region and an artificial key is provided. In a prior investigation, maximum parsimony and maximum likelihood analyses of nuclear ribosomal ITS2 and plastidic trnL-trnF sequences from purported related species confirms its independent taxonomic status and corroborates its placement within F. subg. Microfrullania. The ongoing studies of Frullania species-complexes reveal the urgent need for more species-level phylogenies with extensive population sampling to approximate the actual diversity of Frullania, and to elucidate speciation processes and distribution range formation.
Soret and dufour effects on MHD mixed convection heat and mass transfer in a micropolar fluid
Authors: Srinivasacharya Darbhasayanam , Upendar Mendu
Published: December 2013

This paper analyzes the flow, heat and mass transfer characteristics of the mixed convection on a vertical plate in a micropolar fluid in the presence of Soret and Dufour effects. A uniform magnetic field of magnitude is applied normal to the plate. The governing nonlinear partial differential equations are transformed into a system of coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations using similarity transformations and then solved numerically using the Keller-box method. The numerical results are compared and found to be in good agreement with previously published results as special cases of the present investigation. The rate of heat and mass transfer at the plate are presented graphically for various values of coupling number, magnetic parameter, Prandtl number, Schmidt number, Dufour and Soret numbers. In addition, the skin-friction coefficient, the wall couple stress are shown in a tabular form.
High temperature air oxidation resistance of TiAlCr-Y coated Ti45Al8Nb between 750 °C – 950 °C
Authors: Dudziak Tomasz , Datta Prasanta , Du Hailiang , Ross Ian
Published: December 2013

This study is concerned with air oxidation of TiAlCr-Y coated Ti45Al-8Nb (at%) alloy between 750 °C–950 °C for 500 hours. It was shown in these tests that at 750 °C, 850 °C and 950 °C, the oxidation degradation increased with temperature: at 750 °C the oxide scale consisted of TiO2/Al2O3/Cr2O3 phases, whilst at 850 °C the oxide scale consisted of TiO2/Al2O3 phases with a small amount of Cr2O3, and larger number of voids. The material exposed at 950 °C showed a significant formation of TiO2 with a small amount of Al2O3 and high number of voids; the formation of Cr2O3 at 950 °C was inhibited mainly due to the formation of volatile CrO3 or CrO2(OH)2 phase.
New Urbanization of the Steppe. Astana: A Capital Called the Capital
Authors: Gawęcki Marek
Published: December 2013

Relocating the capital of Kazakhstan from Almaty to Akmola (then renamed Astana) in 1997 has been the subject of an intense debate, particularly within media. The process of creating the new capital of Kazakhstan should consider the broader perspective of historical, political and ideological, social, climatic and geographical factors, and finally to put the matter in terms of architecture and urban planning. The author considers this very broad perspective, finally expressing the hope that the project of “the city of the future” analyzed in the article, will become a permanent part of the Kazakh reality.
Housing Demand in the Polish Peoples’ Republic
Authors: Jarmuż Michał , Jarosz Dariusz
Published: December 2013

Although historians and social scientists devoted considerable attention to issues related to housing in the Polish Peoples’ Republic era, many problems still need further research. The crucial problem of the paper is to find an answer to the question: what did Poles have to do in the period between 1944/45 and 1989 in order to obtain housing? The answer given is the effect of several years of primary source research which encompassed archival material of assorted types and origins
Assessment of soil structure of Luvisols developed from loess classified in various complexes of agricultural suitability
Authors: Paluszek Jan
Published: December 2013

The objective of the study was the estimation of the aggregate size distribution and water stability of aggregates in Luvisols developed from loess, classified in three agricultural suitability complexes of soils used in Poland: very good wheat (1), good wheat (2) and deficient wheat complex (3). Soils classified in the very good wheat complex had a significantly higher content of air-dry aggregates with sizes in the range of 0.25.10 mm than those classified in the good wheat and deficient wheat complexes. The aggregate size distribution of Ap horizons of soils classified in the very good wheat complex was assessed as highly favourable, and the composition of Ap horizons of soil from the good wheat and deficient wheat complexes as favourable. The aggregate size distribution of the subsoil in the depth of 25.75 cm was assessed as favourable, while in the depth of 75.100 cm as medium favourable. The soils classified in the very good wheat and good wheat complexes were characterised by significantly higher contents of stable aggregates with sizes of 0.25.10 mm and 1.10 mm compared to the soils of the deficient wheat complex. Water stability of aggregates in the Ap horizons of soils classified in the very good wheat and good wheat complexes was estimated as good, and in the Ap horizons of soils of the deficient wheat complex as medium. Whereas, the water stability of aggregates in the Et, Bt, BC and C horizons was assessed as very poor. The reason of the deterioration of aggregate-size distribution and decrease of water-stable aggregate content with sizes of 0,25.10 mm, especially in Luvisols classified in the deficient wheat complexes was accelerated soil erosion.
Field Evaluation of Automated Flagger Assistance Devices in Work Zones on Two-Lane Roads
Authors: Finley Melisa D.
Published: December 2013

Automated flagger assistance devices (AFADs) are designed to be operated remotely by a flagger positioned outside of the travel lanes and thus to reduce the flagger's exposure to vehicular traffic. There are two types of AFADs. One type uses a remote-controlled stop and slow sign to alternate the right-of-way; the other uses remote-controlled red and yellow lenses to alternate the right-of-way. A gate arm is required only with the latter. Although AFADs may have increased the safety of flaggers, there were concerns that motorists may have misunderstood AFADs and proceeded before it had been safe to do so. As part of a recent Texas Department of Transportation project, Texas A&M Transportation Institute researchers conducted field studies at lane closures on two-lane, two-way roadways in Texas to assess the operational and safety effectiveness of AFADs relative to the use of flaggers. The research findings show that the violation rate for the stop–slow AFAD without a gate arm is the highest and is significantly higher than the violation rate for the red–yellow lens AFAD (which requires a gate arm). Adding a gate arm to the stop–slow AFAD decreased the violation rate such that it was not significantly different from the red–yellow lens AFAD. In addition, alternative supplemental signs increased motorists' understanding that the stop sign would have changed to a slow sign when motorists were allowed to proceed. Overall, the research findings show that some motorists violate AFADs, especially when the queue of vehicles going in the same direction is visible to the stopped motorist.
Utility of multimaterial 3D printers in creating models with pathological entities to enhance the training experience of neurosurgeons
Authors: Waran Vicknes , Narayanan Vairavan , Karuppiah Ravindran , Owen Sarah L. F. , Aziz Tipu
Published: December 2013

The advent of multimaterial 3D printers allows the creation of neurosurgical models of a more realistic nature, mimicking real tissues. The authors used the latest generation of 3D printer to create a model, with an inbuilt pathological entity, of varying consistency and density. Using this model the authors were able to take trainees through the basic steps, from navigation and planning of skin flap to performing initial steps in a craniotomy and simple tumor excision. As the technology advances, models of this nature may be able to supplement the training of neurosurgeons in a simulated operating theater environment, thus improving the training experience.
Saharan Rock Art: Local Dynamics and Wider Perspectives
Authors: Gallinaro Marina
Published: December 2013

Rock art is the best known evidence of the Saharan fragile heritage. Thousands of engraved and painted artworks dot boulders and cliffs in open-air sites, as well as the rock walls of rockshelters and caves located in the main massifs. Since its pioneering discovery in the late 19th century, rock art captured the imagination of travellers and scholars, representing for a long time the main aim of research in the area. Chronology, meaning and connections between the different recognized artistic provinces are still to be fully understood. The central massifs, and in particular the "cultural province" encompassing Tadrart Acacus and Tassili n’Ajer, played and still play a key role in this scenario. Recent analytical and contextual analyses of rock art contexts seem to open new perspectives. Tadrart Acacus, for the richness and variability of artworks, for the huge archaeological data known, and for its proximity to other important areas with rock art (Tassili n’Ajjer, Algerian Tadrart and Messak massifs) is an ideal context to analyze the artworks in their environmental and social-cultural context, and to define connections between cultural local dynamics and wider regional perspectives.
The Perception of Depicted Motion
Authors: Dobrez Livio
Published: December 2013

Everyone knows that you can read a galloping horse in a still image as galloping. This paper asks how it is that we perceive motion in pictures. It considers perception of real motion in point-light experiments and the perception of motion in stills via the work of various psychologists, in the course of which it raises theoretical questions about the nature of visual perception. It then offers a detailed examination of knowledge regarding neural substrates for both real and depicted motion perception. Finally, it combines psychological and neurophysiological perspectives with phenomenologically-oriented observation of pictures, discussing both frontoparallel motion and motion in depth (in particular the phenomenon of “looming”) in terms of two kinds of depictions, the “narrative” and the “performative”. Examples are drawn from all kinds of pictures, but focus is on world rock art, whose time depth is especially amenable to the universalist approach adopted by the paper.
Opening Study on the Development of a New Biosensor for Metal Toxicity Based on Pseudomonas fluorescens Pyoverdine
Authors: Chiadò Alessandro , Varani Luca , Bosco Francesca , Marmo Luca
Published: December 2013

To date, different kinds of biosensing elements have been used effectively for environmental monitoring. Microbial cells seem to be well-suited for this task: they are cheap, adaptable to variable field conditions and give a measurable response to a broad number of chemicals. Among different pollutants, heavy metals are still a major problem for the environment. A reasonable starting point for the selection of a biorecognition element to develop a biosensor for metals could be that of a microorganism that exhibits good mechanisms to cope with metals. Pseudomonads are characterized by the secretion of siderophores (e.g., pyoverdine), low-molecular weight compounds that chelate Fe3+ during iron starvation. Pyoverdine is easily detected by colorimetric assay, and it is suitable for simple online measurements. In this work, in order to evaluate pyoverdine as a biorecognition element for metal detection, the influence of metal ions (Fe3+, Cu2+, Zn2+), but also of temperature, pH and nutrients, on microbial growth and pyoverdine regulation has been studied in P. fluorescens. Each of these variables has been shown to influence the synthesis of siderophore: for instance, the lower the temperature, the higher the production of pyoverdine. Moreover, the concentration of pyoverdine produced in the presence of metals has been compared with the maximum allowable concentrations indicated in international regulations (e.g., 98/83/EC), and a correlation that could be useful to build a colorimetric biosensor has been observed.
Recent Advances in Fluorescent Arylboronic Acids for Glucose Sensing
Authors: Hansen Jon , Christensen Jørn
Published: December 2013

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is crucial in order to avoid complications caused by change in blood glucose for patients suffering from diabetes mellitus. The long-term consequences of high blood glucose levels include damage to the heart, eyes, kidneys, nerves and other organs, among others, caused by malign glycation of vital protein structures. Fluorescent monitors based on arylboronic acids are promising candidates for optical CGM, since arylboronic acids are capable of forming arylboronate esters with 1,2-cis-diols or 1,3-diols fast and reversibly, even in aqueous solution. These properties enable arylboronic acid dyes to provide immediate information of glucose concentrations. Thus, the replacement of the commonly applied semi-invasive and non-invasive techniques relying on glucose binding proteins, such as concanavalin A, or enzymes, such as glucose oxidase, glucose dehydrogenase and hexokinases/glucokinases, might be possible. The recent progress in the development of fluorescent arylboronic acid dyes will be emphasized in this review.
Characteristics and Laser Performance of Yb3+-Doped Silica Large Mode Area Fibers Prepared by Sol–Gel Method
Authors: Wang Shikai , Lou Fengguang , Wang Meng , Yu Chunlei , Feng Suya , Zhou Qinling , Chen Danping , Hu Lili
Published: December 2013

Large-size 0.1 Yb2O3–1.0 Al2O3–98.9 SiO2 (mol%) core glass was prepared by the sol–gel method. Its optical properties were evaluated. Both large mode area double cladding fiber (LMA DCF) with core diameter of 48 µm and large mode area photonic crystal fiber (LMA PCF) with core diameter of 90 µm were prepared from this core glass. Transmission loss at 1200 nm is 0.41 dB/m. Refractive index fluctuation is less than 2 × 10−4. Pumped by 976 nm laser diode LD pigtailed with silica fiber (NA 0.22), the slope efficiency of 54% and “light-to-light” conversion efficiency of 51% were realized in large mode area double cladding fiber, and 81 W laser power with a slope efficiency of 70.8% was achieved in the corresponding large mode area photonic crystal fiber.
Biodegradation of Di-n-Butyl Phthalate by a Newly Isolated Halotolerant Sphingobium sp.
Authors: Jin Decai , Kong Xiao , Cui Bingjian , Bai Zhihui , Zhang Hongxun
Published: December 2013

A Gram-negative strain (TJ) capable of growing aerobically on mixed phthalate esters (PAEs) as the sole carbon and energy source was isolated from the Haihe estuary, Tianjin, China. It was identified as belonging to the Sphingobium genus on the basis of morphological and physiological characteristics and 16S rRNA and gyrb gene sequencing. The batch tests for biodegradation of di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) by the Sphingobium sp. TJ showed that the optimum conditions were 30 °C, pH 7.0, and the absence of NaCl. Stain TJ could tolerate up to 4% NaCl in minimal salt medium supplemented with DBP, although the DBP degradation rates slowed as NaCl concentration increased. In addition, substrate tests showed that strain TJ could utilize shorter side-chained PAEs, such as dimethyl phthalate and diethyl phthalate, but could not metabolize long-chained PAEs, such as di-n-octyl phthalate, diisooctyl phthalate, and di-(2-ethyl-hexyl) phthalate. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the biodegradation characteristics of DBP by a member of the Sphingobium genus.
Cytotoxic, Cytostatic and HIV-1 PR Inhibitory Activities of the Soft Coral Litophyton arboreum
Authors: Ellithey Mona , Lall Namrita , Hussein Ahmed , Meyer Debra
Published: December 2013

Bioassay-guided fractionation using different chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques in the analysis of the Red Sea soft coral Litophyton arboreum led to the isolation of nine compounds; sarcophytol M (1), alismol (2), 24-methylcholesta-5,24(28)-diene-3β-ol (3), 10-O-methyl alismoxide (4), alismoxide (5), (S)-chimyl alcohol (6), 7β-acetoxy-24-methylcholesta-5-24(28)-diene-3,19-diol (7), erythro-N-dodecanoyl-docosasphinga-(4E,8E)-dienine (8), and 24-methylcholesta-5,24 (28)-diene-3β,7β,19-triol (9). Some of the isolated compounds demonstrated potent cytotoxic- and/or cytostatic activity against HeLa and U937 cancer cell lines and inhibitory activity against HIV-1 protease (PR). Compound 7 was strongly cytotoxic against HeLa cells (CC50 4.3 ± 0.75 µM), with selectivity index of SI 8.1, which was confirmed by real time cell electronic sensing (RT-CES). Compounds 2, 7, and 8 showed strong inhibitory activity against HIV-1 PR at IC50s of 7.20 ± 0.7, 4.85 ± 0.18, and 4.80 ± 0.92 µM respectively. In silico docking of most compounds presented comparable scores to that of acetyl pepstatin, a known HIV-1 PR inhibitor. Interestingly, compound 8 showed potent HIV-1 PR inhibitory activity in the absence of cytotoxicity against the cell lines used. In addition, compounds 2 and 5 demonstrated cytostatic action in HeLa cells, revealing potential use in virostatic cocktails. Taken together, data presented here suggest Litophyton arboreum to contain promising compounds for further investigation against the diseases mentioned.
Efficient PPA-SiO2-catalyzed Synthesis of β-enaminones Under Solvent-Free Conditions
Authors: Nisar Muhammad , Ali Ihsan , Shah Muhammad , Qayum Mughal , Zia-Ul-Haq Muhammad , Rashid Umer , Islam Md.
Published: December 2013

An efficient method has been developed for the synthesis of β-enaminones under solvent-free reaction conditions using PPA-SiO2 as catalyst. The reaction yields were good to excellent (up to 90%). This methodology affords high selectivity and good tolerance of a variety of different functional groups present on both aromatic and aliphatic amines. In addition, the methodology is environmentally benign and cost-effective due to absence of solvent and easy work-up.
Facile Synthesis of the Naturally Cytotoxic Triterpenoid Saponin Patrinia-Glycoside B-II and Its Conformer
Authors: Ren Li , Liu Yong-Xiang , Lv Dan , Yan Mao-Cai , Nie Han , Liu Yang , Cheng Mao-Sheng
Published: December 2013

The first chemical synthesis of the natural triterpenoid saponin Patrinia-glycoside B-II, namely oleanolic acid 3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-[β-D-gluco-pyranosyl-(1→3)]-α-L-arabinopyranoside, has been accomplished in a linear 11-step sequence 11 with 9.4% overall yield. The abnormal 1C4 conformation of the arabinose residue was found to occur via conformational fluctuation during preparation of the intermediates. Molecular mechanism and quantum chemistry calculations showed that Patrinia-glycoside B-II and its conformer 1 cannot interconvert under normal conditions. Preliminary structure-activity relationships studies indicated that the 4C1 chair conformation of the arabinose residue in the unique α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-L-arabinopyranosyl disaccharide moiety is one of the chief positive factors responsible for its cytotoxic activity against tumors.
A Micromachined Pressure Sensor with Integrated Resonator Operating at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Ren Sen , Yuan Weizheng , Qiao Dayong , Deng Jinjun , Sun Xiaodong
Published: December 2013

A novel resonant pressure sensor with an improved micromechanical double-ended tuning fork resonator packaged in dry air at atmospheric pressure is presented. The resonator is electrostatically driven and capacitively detected, and the sensor is designed to realize a low cost resonant pressure sensor with medium accuracy. Various damping mechanisms in a resonator that is vibrating at atmospheric pressure are analyzed in detail, and a formula is developed to predict the overall quality factor. A trade-off has been reached between the quality factor, stress sensitivity and drive capability of the resonator. Furthermore, differential sense elements and the method of electromechanical amplitude modulation are used for capacitive detection to obtain a large signal-to-noise ratio. The prototype sensor chip is successfully fabricated using a micromachining process based on a commercially available silicon-on-insulator wafer and is hermetically encapsulated in a custom 16-pin Kovar package. Preliminary measurements show that the fundamental frequency of the resonant pressure sensor is approximately 34.55 kHz with a pressure sensitivity of 20.77 Hz/kPa. Over the full scale pressure range of 100–400 kPa and the whole temperature range of −20–60 °C, high quality factors from 1,146 to 1,772 are obtained. The characterization of the prototype sensor reveals the feasibility of a resonant pressure sensor packaged at atmospheric pressure.
Wireless Accelerometer for MRI-Guided Interventional Procedures
Authors: Paley Martyn , Ledger Araminta , Leach Martin , Cummings Craig , Hughes Raymond , Akgun Ali
Published: December 2013

MRI-guidance is increasingly used for minimally-invasive procedures, such as biopsy, and requires real-time active tracking of surgical instruments. Although optical and MR-based fiducial tracking devices have been used, these systems rely on complex contact with the operator or line-of-sight access for effective operation. A more straight-forward and clinically robust method is required to allow interactive real-time slice positioning of MR scan planes during interventional procedures. This study evaluated the use of a wristwatch-mounted, low cost wireless interface device for real-time MRI guidance. The device was designed to interact with software for planning rather than instrument guidance. The wireless device was integrated with two novel, open interventional magnet systems operating at 0.17T and 0.5T and utilized a novel customized graphic user interface (GUI) to assess interventional capability.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Levels in Dobrava/Belgrade Virus Infections
Authors: Tsergouli Katerina , Papa Anna
Published: December 2013

The levels of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF) were estimated in 102 serum samples from 63 hospitalized Greek patients with hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) caused by Dobrava/Belgrade virus. Significantly higher VEGF levels were seen in the severe when compared with non-severe cases (mean values 851.96 pg/mL and 326.75 pg/mL, respectively; p = 0.003), while a significant difference was observed among groups based on the day after the onset of illness. In both severe and non-severe cases, VEGF peaked in the second week of illness; however, elevation of VEGF in the severe cases started later and remained high until convalescence, suggesting that the role of VEGF was associated with repair of vascular damage rather than with increased permeability.
Nanninga, T.A., et al. Discussion on Sustainable Water Technologies for Peri-Urban Areas of Mexico City: Balancing Urbanization and Environmental Conservation. Water 2012, 4, 739–758
Authors: Nanninga Tiemen , Bisschops Iemke , López Eduardo , Martínez-Ruiz José , Murillo Daniel , Essl Laura , Starkl Markus
Published: December 2013

There is one mistake in this article [1]. On page 753, line 12, the phrase “(application load of 80 tons/ha)” should be “(application load of 80 kg/ha)”. [...]
Extracellular membrane vesicles from umbilical cord blood‐derived MSC protect against ischemic acute kidney injury, a feature that is lost after inflammatory conditioning
Authors: Kilpinen Lotta , Impola Ulla , Sankkila Lotta , Ritamo Ilja , Aatonen Maria , Kilpinen Sami , Tuimala Jarno , Valmu Leena , Levijoki Jouko , Finckenberg Piet , Siljander Pia , Kankuri Esko , Mervaala Eero , Laitinen Saara
Published: December 2013

Background

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) are shown to have a great therapeutic potential in many immunological disorders. Currently the therapeutic effect of MSCs is considered to be mediated via paracrine interactions with immune cells. Umbilical cord blood is an attractive but still less studied source of MSCs. We investigated the production of extracellular membrane vesicles (MVs) from human umbilical cord blood derived MSCs (hUCBMSC) in the presence (MVstim) or absence (MVctrl) of inflammatory stimulus.

Methods

hUCBMSCs were cultured in serum free media with or without IFN‐γ and MVs were collected from conditioned media by ultracentrifugation. The protein content of MVs were analyzed by mass spectrometry. Hypoxia induced acute kidney injury rat model was used to analyze the in vivo therapeutic potential of MVs and T‐cell proliferation and induction of regulatory T cells were analyzed by co‐culture assays.

Results

Both MVstim and MVctrl showed similar T‐cell modulation activity in vitro, but only MVctrls were able to protect rat kidneys from reperfusion injury in vivo. To clarify this difference in functionality we made a comparative mass spectrometric analysis of the MV protein contents. The IFN‐γ stimulation induced dramatic changes in the protein content of the MVs. Complement factors (C3, C4A, C5) and lipid binding proteins (i.e apolipoproteins) were only found in the MVctrls, whereas the MVstim contained tetraspanins (CD9, CD63, CD81) and more complete proteasome complex accompanied with MHCI. We further discovered that differently produced MV pools contained specific Rab proteins suggesting that same cells, depending on external signals, produce vesicles originating from different intracellular locations.

Conclusions

We demonstrate by both in vitro and in vivo models accompanied with a detailed analysis of molecular characteristics that inflammatory conditioning of MSCs influence on the protein content and functional properties of MVs revealing the complexity of the MSC paracrine regulation.
Superficial Parotid Lobe–Sparing Delineation Approach: A Better Method of Dose Optimization to Protect the Parotid Gland in Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang H.B. , Lu X. , Huang S.M. , Wang L. , Zhao C. , Xia W.X. , Li S.W. , Wang F.L. , Zhu Y.L. , Guo X. , Xiang Y.Q.
Published: December 2013

Purpose: We used a superficial parotid lobe–sparing delineation approach for dose optimization with better protection for the parotid glands in intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients. Methods: Compared with traditional contouring of the entire parotid glands as organs at risk (OARS) in IMRT for NPC, we used a superficial parotid lobe–sparing delineation approach of contouring the superficial parotid lobes as OARS. Changes in dose to the parotid glands, the targets, and other OARS were evaluated. Results: The mean dose to the parotid glands overall decreased by more than 4 Gy in the test plans. Impressively, the mean dose to the superficial parotid lobes in the test plans was not more than 30 Gy, regardless of clinical stage. In T1–3 NPC patients, the dose distributions for targets were not significantly different in the control plans and the test plans. However, for some T4 patients, the dose distributions for targets and brainstem in the test plans could not meet clinical requirements. Conclusions: The superficial parotid lobe–sparing delineation approach can significantly lower the mean dose to the entire parotid and to the superficial parotid lobe in T1–3 NPC patients, which would be expected to result in less xerostomia and better quality of life for those patients.
Outcomes of her2-positive Early-Stage Breast Cancer in the Trastuzumab Era: A Population-Based Study of Canadian Patients
Authors: Zurawska U. , Baribeau D.A. , Giilck S. , Victor C. , Gandhi S. , Florescu A. , Verma S.
Published: December 2013

Breast cancer is heterogenous, with variable expression of the estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Overexpression of HER2 is generally considered a negative prognostic feature, but whether outcomes for HER2-positive early breast cancer remain different from those for other subtypes in the era of trastuzumab-based adjuvant therapy is unknown. Methods: Using a retrospective chart review, we compared overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) in 3 groups of patients with early-stage breast cancer: ER-positive or PR-positive (or both) and HER2-negative [“hormone receptor–positive” (HR+)]; HER2-positive (HER2+); and ER-negative, PR-negative, and HER2-negative [“triple-negative” (TN)]. Results: In the 503 charts analyzed (332 HR+, 94 HER2+, 77 TN), the 5-year OS and RFS were, respectively, 94.2% and 87.2% for HR+ patients, 88.6% and 74.9% for HER2+ patients, and 85.4% and 76.2% for TN patients. On multivariate analysis, the OS for the HER2+ subtype was similar to that for the HR+ subtype (hazard ratio:1.07; 95% confidence interval: 0.31 to 3.67 with HR+ as reference), but OS was significantly worse for TN patients than for HR+ patients (hazard ratio: 4.37; 95% confidence interval: 1.56 to 12.24). In HER2+ patients, the 5-year OS and RFS trended better for patients with ER+ or PR+ disease than for patients with ER-negative and PR-negative disease (5-year OS: 92.1% vs. 86.9%; 5-year RFS: 79.8% vs. 71.4%). Of HER2+ patients, just 80.9% received trastuzumab, including 33.3% of HER2+ patients with sub-centimetre tumours. Conclusions: In the trastuzumab era, patients with HER2+ and HR+ early breast cancer have similar outcomes, while TN patients experience a significantly worse OS than either of the foregoing groups. Outcomes for HER2+ patients may differ by ER and PR status. Trastuzumab was underutilized in this cohort.
Meeting the Health Information Needs of Prostate Cancer Patients Using Personal Health Records
Authors: Pai H.H. , Lau F. , Barnett J. , Jones S.
Published: December 2013

Background: There is interest in the use of health information technology in the form of personal health record (PHR) systems to support patient needs for health information, care, and decision-making, particularly for patients with distressing, chronic diseases such as prostate cancer (PCa). We sought feedback from PCa patients who used a PHR. Methods: For 6 months, 22 PCa patients in various phases of care at the BC Cancer Agency (BCCA) were given access to a secure Web-based PHR called PROVIDER, which they could use to view their medical records and use a set of support tools. Feedback was obtained using an end-of-study survey on usability, satisfaction, and concerns with PROVIDER. Site activity was recorded to assess usage patterns. Results: Of the 17 patients who completed the study, 29% encountered some minor difficulties using PROVIDER. No security breaches were known to have occurred. The two most commonly accessed medical records were laboratory test results and transcribed doctor’s notes. Of survey respondents, 94% were satisfied with the access to their medical records, 65% said that PROVIDER helped to answer their questions, 77% felt that their privacy and confidentiality were preserved, 65% felt that using PROVIDER helped them to communicate better with their physicians, 83% found new and useful information that they would not have received by talking to their health care providers, and 88% said that they would continue to use PROVIDER. Conclusions: Our results support the notion that phrs can provide cancer patients with timely access to their medical records and health information, and can assist in communication with health care providers, in knowledge generation, and in patient empowerment.
[2H26]-1-epi-Cubenol, a completely deuterated natural product from Streptomyces griseus
Authors: Citron Christian A , Dickschat Jeroen S
Published: December 2013

During growth on fully deuterated medium the volatile terpene [2H26]-1-epi-cubenol was released by the actinomycete Streptomyces griseus. This compound represents the first completely deuterated terpene obtained by fermentation. Despite a few previous reports in the literature the operability of this approach to fully deuterated compounds is still surprising, because the strong kinetic isotope effect of deuterium is known to slow down all metabolic processes in living organisms. Potential applications of completely labelled compounds from natural sources in structure elucidation, biosynthetic or pharmacokinetic investigations are discussed.
New species of Lathrolestes Förster (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) from Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Reshchikov Alexey
Published: December 2013

Lathrolestes ivoriensissp. n. is described from Côte d’Ivoire. This is the second record of the genus from the Afrotropical region and the first record of the genus and the subfamily for the country. Illustrated re-description of L. ruwenzoricus (Benoit, 1955) is also provided.
A review of the subfamily Acaenitinae Förster, 1869 (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) from Ukrainian Carpathians
Authors: Varga Alexander
Published: December 2013

Ichneumonid wasps of the subfamily Acaenitinae Förster, 1869 are reviewed for the first time from the Ukrainian Carpathians. Two species, Coleocentrus exareolatus Kriechbaumer, 1894 and C. heteropus Thomson, 1894 are new records for Ukraine. Arotes annulicornis Kriechbaumer, 1894 is considered to be a junior synonym of A. albicinctus Gravenhorst, 1829 (syn. nov.). A key to species of Coleocentrus of the Carpathians is provided.
Bacterial skin commensals and their role as host guardians
Authors: Christensen G.J.M. , Brüggemann H.
Published: December 2013

Recent years’ investigations of the co-evolution and functional integration of the human body and its commensal microbiota have disclosed that the microbiome has a major impact on physiological functions including protection against infections, reaction patterns in the immune system, and disposition for inflammation-mediated diseases. Two ubiquitous members of the skin microbiota, the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus epidermidis and Propionibacterium acnes, are predominant on human epithelia and in sebaceous follicles, respectively. Their successful colonisation is a result of a commensal or even mutualistic lifestyle, favouring traits conferring persistency over aggressive host-damaging properties. Some bacterial properties suggest an alliance with the host to keep transient, potential pathogens at bay, such as the ability of S. epidermidis to produce antimicrobials, or the production of short-chain fatty acids by P. acnes. These features can function together with host-derived components of the innate host defence to establish and maintain the composition of a health-associated skin microbiota. However, depending largely on the host status, the relationship between the human host and S. epidermidis/P. acnes can also have parasitic features. Both microorganisms are frequently isolated from opportunistic infections. S. epidermidis is a causative agent of hospital-acquired infections, mostly associated with the use of medical devices. P. acnes is suspected to be of major importance in the pathogenesis of acne and also in a number of other opportunistic infections. In this review we will present bacterial factors and traits of these two key members of our skin microbiota and discuss how they contribute to mutualistic and parasitic properties. The elucidation of their roles in health-promoting or disease-causing processes could lead to new prophylactic and therapeutic strategies against skin disorders and other S. epidermidis/P. acnes-associated diseases, and increase our understanding of the delicate interplay of the skin microbiota with the human host.
Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled study of the effect of Lactobacillus paracasei NCC 2461 on skin reactivity
Authors: Gueniche A. , Philippe D. , Bastien P. , Reuteler G. , Blum S. , Castiel-Higounenc I. , Breton L. , Benyacoub J.
Published: December 2013

In recent decades, the prevalence of subjects with reactive skin has considerably increased in industrialised countries. 50% of women and 30% of men report cutaneous discomfort classified under reactive/sensitive skin. Several topical approaches have been proposed, in particular through improvement of galenic forms or protection of epidermal surface. We propose to act differently, deeply from inside the body via an innovative nutritional approach. To this purpose, Lactobacillus paracasei NCC 2461 (ST11) was selected because of its specific beneficial skin properties discovered in in vitro studies, i.e. diminution of neurogenic inflammation and promotion of the recovery of skin barrier function. We designed a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled clinical study with a two-month supplementation in two female treatment groups (n=32 per group). A capsaicin test was performed to monitor the time course of skin sensitivity. Moreover, transepidermal water loss was assessed to analyse the rate of skin barrier function recovery; dryness of the leg and roughness of the cheeks was investigated by a dermatologist as well as by self-assessment. The results of the present clinical trial show that oral supplementation with the probiotic decreases skin sensitivity and increases the rate of barrier function recovery. Thus, the data provide evidence that daily intake of ST11 could improve reactive skin condition.