bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Presputtering on the Adhesion of Cu to Teflon
Authors: Chang Chin-An , Lin K. C. , Baglin J. E. E. , Coleman G. , Park J.
Published: March 2011

Adhesion between Cu and Teflon has been greatly enhanced by a presputtering treatment of the Teflon prior to the deposition of Cu. Without such a treatment, the Cu-Teflon adhesion is weak, with a peel strength less than 1 gram/mm, and the Cu films can be easily peeled off using scotch tape. With the presputtering treatment, the adhesion rapidly increases, and reaches 50 grams/mm after 30 sec of sputtering. All the sputtered samples show strong adhesion, and the Cu films can only be scratched off forcefully using sharp tools. The presputtering treatment has changed the surface morphology of the Teflon and the deposited Cu layers, and also changes the chemical bonding between Cu and Teflon. The results are discussed to understand the mechanisms involved for the enhanced adhesion observed.
Surface Slip Retardation by ion Implantation
Authors: Samipath W. S. , Kustas F. M. , Wei R. , Wilbur P. J.
Published: March 2011

Ion implantation is shown to retard surface slip and thereby induce improvements in wear and fatigue resistance of metals. A simple test is described which can be used to study the effects of ion implantation in retarding motion of dislocations in the near-surface regions of metals. In this test, regions of annealed and etched surfaces of metals are masked and implanted with ions. The specimens are then deformed until significant plastic deformation is introduced and the slip-lines are observed under the microscope. Evidence of improved resistance to slip-line formation in nitrogen ion implanted surface regions is presented for copper, α-iron and 303 stainless steel. The test is shown to be a useful tool for comparing the effects of ion implantation conditions on surface slip retardation, since adjacent regions of the surface can be implanted to different conditions and the resistance to slip line formation in the different regions can be compared. For example, the resistance to slip line formation in 303 stainless steel was found to be greater in regions that were implanted at ultrahigh current densities (1500 μA/cm2) than in regions implanted at lower current densities (100 μA/cm2) to the same dose and at the same ion energy.
Optical Reflectometry for Detailed Modeling of Buried Layers in Silicon-on-Insulator
Authors: Bunker S. N. , Sioshansi P. , Sanfacon M. M. , Tobin S. P.
Published: March 2011

Optical reflectometry has been used to describe the morphology of buried layers by high dose oxygen ion implantation into silicon. Previous work has demonstrated that the layer depth, thickness, and shape of surrounding regions with a graded concentration of oxygen can be successfully modeled when compared to SIMS and XTEM. A selection of nomographs for analyzing spectra resulting from conventional implant conditions as a function of dose and screen oxide thickness are presented.
Epitaxial Crystallization of Amorphous Silicon Layers under Ion Irradiation: Orientation Dependence
Authors: Maher D. M. , Elliman R. G. , Linnros J. , Williams J. S. , Knoell R. V. , Brown W. L.
Published: March 2011

Ion-beam induced epitaxial crystallization of thin amorphous silicon layers at {100} and {110} crystalline/amorphous interfaces exhibits no orientation dependencies, whereas at a {111} crystalline/amorphous interface a weak orientation dependency relative to thermal-induced epitaxial crystallization is observed. This behavior supports an interpretation in which the thermal crystallization process is dominated by the need to form interfacial defects and/or growth sites and in the ion-beam experiment this formation process ocurrs athermally. It is thought that the observed orientation dependent regrowth on a {111} substrate relative to a {100} (or {110}) substrate is associated with the special correlated atomic sequencing which is believed to control solid-phase epitaxial crystallization at a {111) crystalline/amorphous interface.
Using Health Information Exchange to Improve Public Health
Authors: Shapiro Jason S. , Mostashari Farzad , Hripcsak George , Soulakis Nicholas , Kuperman Gilad
Published: March 2011

Public health relies on data reported by health care partners, and information technology makes such reporting easier than ever. However, data are often structured according to a variety of different terminologies and formats, making data interfaces complex and costly.

As one strategy to address these challenges, health information organizations (HIOs) have been established to allow secure, integrated sharing of clinical information among numerous stakeholders, including clinical partners and public health, through health information exchange (HIE). We give detailed descriptions of 11 typical cases in which HIOs can be used for public health purposes.

We believe that HIOs, and HIE in general, can improve the efficiency and quality of public health reporting, facilitate public health investigation, improve emergency response, and enable public health to communicate information to the clinical community.
Surviving Drug Addiction: The Effect of Treatment and Abstinence on Mortality
Authors: Scott Christy K. , Dennis Michael L. , Laudet Alexandre , Funk Rodney R. , Simeone Ronald S.
Published: March 2011

Objectives. We examined the relationships between substance abuse treatment, abstinence, and mortality in a sample of individuals entering treatment. We also estimated overall mortality rates and the extent to which they varied according to demographic, clinical severity, and treatment variables.

Methods. We used data from a 9-year longitudinal study of 1326 adults entering substance abuse treatment on the west side of Chicago, of whom 131 died (11.0 per 1000 person-years). Baseline predictors, initial and long-term treatment response, and substance use patterns were used to predict mortality rates and time to mortality.

Results. Older age, health problems, and substance use were associated with an increased risk of mortality, and higher percentages of time abstinent and longer durations of continuous abstinence were associated with a reduced risk of mortality. Treatment readmission in the first 6 months after baseline was related to an increased likelihood of abstinence, whereas readmission after 6 months was related to a decreased likelihood of abstinence, suggesting that treatment timing is significant.

Conclusions. Our findings suggest the need to shift the addiction treatment field from an acute care model to a chronic disease management paradigm and the need for more aggressive screening, intervention, and addiction management over time.
Characterizing Medical Providers for Jail Inmates in New York State
Authors: Shalev Noga , Chiasson Mary Ann , Dobkin Jay F. , Lee Gunjeong
Published: March 2011

Objectives. People who are incarcerated exhibit high rates of disease, but data evaluating the delivery of medical services to inmates are sparse, particularly for jail settings. We sought to characterize the primary medical care providers for county jail inmates in New York State.

Methods. From 2007 through 2009, we collected data on types of medical care providers for jail inmates in all New York State counties. We obtained data from state monitoring programs and e-mail questionnaires sent to county departments of health.

Results. In counties outside New York City (n = 57), jail medical care was delivered by local providers in 40 counties (70%), correctional medical corporations in 8 counties (14%), and public providers in 9 counties (16%). In New York City, 90% of inmates received medical care from a correctional medical corporation. Larger, urban jails, with a greater proportion of Black and Hispanic inmates, tended to use public hospitals or correctional medical corporations as health care vendors.

Conclusions. Jail medical services in New York State were heterogeneous and decentralized, provided mostly by local physician practices and correctional medical corporations. There was limited state oversight and coordination of county jail medical care.
Social Network Analysis of Patient Sharing Among Hospitals in Orange County, California
Authors: Lee Bruce Y. , McGlone Sarah M. , Song Yeohan , Avery Taliser R. , Eubank Stephen , Chang Chung-Chou , Bailey Rachel R. , Wagener Diane K. , Burke Donald S. , Platt Richard , Huang Susan S.
Published: March 2011

Objectives. We applied social network analyses to determine how hospitals within Orange County, California, are interconnected by patient sharing, a system which may have numerous public health implications.

Methods. Our analyses considered 2 general patient-sharing networks: uninterrupted patient sharing (UPS; i.e., direct interhospital transfers) and total patient sharing (TPS; i.e., all interhospital patient sharing, including patients with intervening nonhospital stays). We considered these networks at 3 thresholds of patient sharing: at least 1, at least 10, and at least 100 patients shared.

Results. Geographically proximate hospitals were somewhat more likely to share patients, but many hospitals shared patients with distant hospitals. Number of patient admissions and percentage of cancer patients were associated with greater connectivity across the system. The TPS network revealed numerous connections not seen in the UPS network, meaning that direct transfers only accounted for a fraction of total patient sharing.

Conclusions. Our analysis demonstrated that Orange County's 32 hospitals were highly and heterogeneously interconnected by patient sharing. Different hospital populations had different levels of influence over the patient-sharing network.
Electrode Configuration and Polarity Effects on Water Evaporation Enhancement by Electric Field
Authors: Zheng De-Jiang , Liu Hong-Jiang , Cheng Yong-Qiang , Li Li-Te
Published: March 2011

Applying an electric field to some water solutions or food materials has been shown experimentally to increase the drying rate. In this work, an electric field was applied cross the interface of water via electrodes located upright above the water and under the water container. The polarity and the strength of the electric field and the shape of the electrodes were altered to investigate their effect on the water evaporation rate. The results show that the water evaporation rate in AC field is higher than that in DC field, indicate that the AC field have more effect in water evaporation and heat transfer than DC field. With respect to the effect of electrode configuration, the evaporation rate in the point-to-plane electrode configuration is higher than that in parallel plate, wire-plane, and tube-plane electrode configurations. The point electrode with conical end has more effect on the enhancement of water evaporation rate than that with hemispherical end and flat end. Larger the curvature of stressed electrode lead to higher water evaporation rate. However, the diameter of the rod has little effect on the evaporation rate. Both grid and plate can be used as the grounded electrode where the water samples placed, the mesh number of grid has little effect on the water evaporation rate.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 5 Promotes Pancreatic β-Cell Survival via Fak-Akt Signaling Pathways
Authors: Daval Marie , Gurlo Tatyana , Costes Safia , Huang Chang-jiang , Butler Peter C.
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE

Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) regulatory subunit-associated protein 1-like 1 has recently been linked to type 2 diabetes by genome-wide association studies. While CDK5 and its regulatory protein p35 are both expressed and display enzymatic activity in pancreatic β-cells, their precise role in the β-cell remains unknown. Because type 2 diabetes is characterized by a deficit in β-cell mass and increased β-cell apoptosis, we investigated the role of CDK5 in β-cell survival.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used INS 832/13 cells, rat islets isolated from wild-type or human islet amyloid polypeptide (h-IAPP) transgenic rats, and pancreatic tissue from rats and humans with and without type 2 diabetes and investigated the effect of CDK5/p35 inhibition (by small interfering RNA or by chemical inhibition) as well as CDK5/p35 overexpression on β-cell vulnerability to apoptosis.

RESULTS

CDK5 inhibition led to increased β-cell apoptosis. To identify the mechanisms involved, we examined the phosphorylation state of focal adhesion kinase (Fak)Ser732, a known target of CDK5. Following CDK5 inhibition, the phosphorylation of FakSer732 decreased with resulting attenuation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt survival pathway. Conversely, CDK5 overexpression increased FakSer732 phosphorylation and protected β-cells against apoptosis induced by the inhibition of the β-1 integrin signaling pathway. Also, FakSer732 phosphorylation was less abundant in β-cells in both h-IAPP transgenic rats and humans with type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that by regulating Fak phosphorylation and subsequently PI3K/Akt survival pathway, CDK5 plays a previously unrecognized role in promoting β-cell survival.
Partial Inhibition of Insulin Secretion Results in Glucose Intolerance but Not Hyperglucagonemia
Authors: Ramanathan Ranjani P. , Arbeláez Ana María , Cryer Philip E.
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE

We tested the hypotheses that in nondiabetic individuals, partial inhibition of insulin secretion with the ATP-sensitive K+ channel agonist (opener) diazoxide, compared with placebo, results in higher plasma glucose and higher plasma glucagon concentrations after a mixed meal and after administration of the sulfonylurea glimepiride.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Plasma glucose, insulin, C-peptide, and glucagon concentrations were measured every 30 min from −60 through 180 min with random-sequence, double-blind administration of diazoxide (6.0 mg/kg) or placebo at −30 and 1 min, ingestion of a formula mixed meal (Ensure Plus) at 0 min after diazoxide and after placebo and, on a separate occasion, ingestion of glimepiride (4.0 mg) at 0 min (with glucose infused to prevent hypoglycemia) after diazoxide and after placebo in 11 healthy young adults.

RESULTS

With diazoxide administration, insulin (P = 0.0016) and C-peptide (P = 0.0287) concentrations were decreased and glucose concentrations were increased (e.g., 180-min values of 106 ± 4 mg/dL [5.9 ± 0.2 mmol/L] compared with 87 ± 2 mg/dL [4.8 ± 0.1 mmol/L] with placebo; P < 0.0001), but glucagon concentrations were no different after the mixed meal. Similarly, with diazoxide, C-peptide concentrations were decreased (P = 0.0015) and glucose concentrations were increased (P < 0.0001), but glucagon concentrations declined similarly after glimepiride administration.

CONCLUSIONS

Partial inhibition of insulin secretion results in impairment of glucose tolerance after a mixed meal and after glimepiride administration in the absence of a difference in glucagon secretion. They underscore the primary glucoregulatory role of insulin and support the evidence that β-cell secretion is not the only regulator of α-cell glucagon secretion.
Sperm Transfer Through the Vector Tissue in Piscicola Respirans (Clitellata, Hirudinea, Piscicolidae)
Authors: ŚwiĄtek Piotr , Świder Anna , Bielecki Aleksander
Published: March 2011

Sperm Transfer Through the Vector Tissue in Piscicola Respirans (Clitellata, Hirudinea, Piscicolidae)

In fish leeches (Piscicolidae) indirect (hypodermic) insemination has evolved, thus the spermatophores are released in the specialised region of the body wall known as a copulatory area or a copulatory region. The way in which the spermatozoa reach the ovaries is not fully understood. In piscicolids beneath the copulatory area there is a specialized connective tissue (vector tissue), which is thought to guide the spermatozoa toward the ovaries. To date the structure of the vector tissue has not been observed in copulating specimens, which have spermatophores implanted in their coplulatory area. Here we present the first ultrastructural observation of massive sperm transfer from the spermatophore throughout the vector tissue to the ovaries. Our results show that the sperm transfer is both massive and rapid. The migrating spermatozoa form huge aggregations which push aside the vector tissue cells, in such a way that between these cells voluminous gaps are formed. Unexpectedly to our previous suggestions, the ultrastructural pictures show that the long cytoplasmic processes of granular cells, which constitute the main mass of the vector tissue, are not engaged in sperm transport. We suggest that the sperm is pumped with a high pressure from the spermatophore into the vector tissue, and as a result the vector tissue cells are pushed aside and spermatozoa can freely pass between them.
Morphology and Morphometry of Caeca in the Tufted Duck Aythya Fuligula
Authors: Działa-Szczepańczyk Ewa , Charuta Anna
Published: March 2011

Morphology and Morphometry of Caeca in the Tufted Duck Aythya Fuligula

In this study, we examined the caeca of 44 individuals of Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula): 29 males (23 adult and 6 young) and 15 females (8 adult and 7 young). We analyzed the correlations between lengths of left (CLL) and right (CRL) caeca vs. the dimensions of the bird's body: body weight (BW), body length (BL), sternum length (SL) and tarsus length (TL), in relation to the sex of the animals. We also analyzed the asymmetry of caeca and determined its direction and strength, using a fluctuating asymmetry coefficient. Despite the observed sexual dimorphism in the body size, we found neither sex-related differences in the length of caeca, nor any significant correlation between the CLL and CRL vs. body size (BW, BL, SL, TL). 42 birds (94.5%) were asymmetrical with respect to the length of caeca, and in 37 (84.1%) the left caecum was longer. The fluctuating asymmetry coefficient for the length of these organs in the examined group was 0.413.
Metameric Malformations of Opisthosoma in Tegenaria Atrica (Araneae, Agelenidae)
Authors: Templin Julita , JacunAski Lech , Napiórkowska Teresa
Published: March 2011

Metameric Malformations of Opisthosoma in Tegenaria Atrica (Araneae, Agelenidae)

The opisthosoma of Tegenaria atrica is characterized by a high morphological stability, as it is exceptionally resistant to the teratogenic effect of most abiotic factors except temperature. The least frequent opisthosomal anomalies found in our experimental material were disturbances in the colouring of opisthosoma. Another rare anomaly was the elongation of the postspinneret zone of the opisthosoma, resembling the postabdomen of other arachnids. The occurrence of a much narrower elongation, sometimes with traces of segmentation, resembling the postabdomen the advanced spider, can be interpreted as a specific atavism. An equally rare anomaly was the presence of two independent anal orifices in the postspinneret zone. All the above-described anomalies appear extremely rarely, and some of them are related to the atavistic characteristics observed in the spiders' ontogeny.
Fish Parasites as Quality Indicators of Aquatic Environment
Authors: Dzika Ewa , Wyżlic Iwona
Published: March 2011

Fish Parasites as Quality Indicators of Aquatic Environment

Much research conducted during the last decades has shown that fish parasites are suitable indicators of aquatic environmental quality. They are sensitive to different kinds of pollution such as heavy metals, pesticides, oil-bearing substances, industrial and agricultural wastes and also thermal pollution.
Tilling and Fox-Hunting: New Methods for Functional Analysis of Genes
Authors: Rybka Krystyna
Published: March 2011

Theoretical and experimental bases of TILLING and FOX-hunting, new tools for precise identification of genes in functional studies are reviewed. TILLING (Targeting Induced Local Lesions IN Genomes) is a technique combining chemical mutagenesis with its sensitive and precise detection. The method involves PCR amplification of DNA samples pooled following extraction from a collection of chemically-treated organisms and a subsequent screening for mutations using Cel1 endonuclease, detecting mismatches in heteroduplexes [52]. FOX-hunting (Full-length cDNA Over-eXpressing gene hunting system) is a new method of plant gene overexpression, which enables a quick gene isolation and sequencing, paralelly with functional studies.
RT-PCR Analysis of TopBP1 Gene Expression in Hereditary Breast Cancer
Authors: Forma Ewa , Bernaciak Magdalena , Romanowicz-Makowska Hanna , Bryś Magdalena
Published: March 2011

Hereditary predisposition to breast cancer determined in large part by loss of function mutations in one of two genes BRCA1 and BRCA2. Besides BRCA1 and BRCA2 other genes are also likely to be involved in hereditary predisposition to breast cancer. TopBP1 protein is involved in DNA replication, DNA damage checkpoint response and transcriptional regulation. Expression of TopBP1 gene at the mRNA level was analyzed by semiquantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in 94 samples of hereditary breast cancer. Analysis of TopBP1 mRNA level showed that expression of TopBP1 is significantly downregulated in poorly differentiated breast cancer (grade III according Bloom-Richardson system (P<0.05).
The Influence of the Zebra Mussel (Dreisena Polymorhpa) on Magnesium and Calcium Concentration in Water
Authors: Wojtal-Frankiewicz Adrianna , Frankiewicz Piotr
Published: March 2011

In this study we examined changes in magnesium and calcium ion concentrations depending on Zebra Mussel biomass, pH values and temperature. We performed field experiments in years with different weather conditions using twelve 200 litre polycarbonate containers filled with 150 litres of non-filtered water from lowland, eutrophic reservoirs. Three treatments of the experiment were represented by: Phyto control with non-filtered water, Phyto+Dreis A with Zebra Mussel biomass of 500 g/m2, and Phyto+Dreis B with Zebra Mussel biomass of 1.000 g/m2. Magnesium and calcium ions concentrations were analyzed on an ion chromatograph (Dionex-1000). Results indicated a significant reduction in magnesium and calcium ion concentrations by Zebra Mussels (independent of mussel biomass), especially in the year with higher and more stable average temperatures. Mg concentration was significantly negatively correlated with temperature in this year. In both years of study the magnesium and calcium ion concentrations were negatively correlated with pH. Analyses of the Zebra Mussel’s impact on magnesium and calcium loss from water, linked with the influence of physical factors (temperature and pH), may be valuable for the management of invaded ecosystems.
30-Year-Long Changes in Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna of Niebieskie Źródła (Blue Springs) Nature Reserve in Tomaszów Mazowiecki, Central Poland
Authors: Wojciechowski Zbigniew , Markowski Janusz , Janiszewski Tomasz , Hejduk Janusz
Published: March 2011

The article focuses on changes in terrestrial vertebrate fauna of Niebieskie Źródła (Blue Springs) Nature Reserve that occurred between two censuses carried out in the area. The first census was carried out in the period of 1968-1970, and the second census in the period of 1998-1999. In 1998-1999 the occurrence of four species of amphibians, 41 of birds and 15 of mammals was recorded. In comparison with investigations from 1968-1970 two species of amphibians, two species of mammals, and nine species of birds were found to have disappeared from the reserve. In the census carried out in 1998 and 1999 we recorded 22 new species of vertebrates: one new species of amphibian, five species of mammals, and 16 species of birds. The recent observations showed a decline in the abundance of amphibian species in the reserve, especially in the closest vicinity to the urban development around the city of Tomaszów Mazowiecki. The quantitative data on birds showed an increase in the numbers and abundance, which was mainly pronounced in the group of forest species, especially cavity and shrub nesters. We suggest that these changes are directly related to the succession of forest vegetation and its developing vertical structure, as well as to an increase in the forestation of the reserve area.
Tempering Temperature Effects on Hardness and Impact Toughness of 56NiCrMo7 Steel
Authors: Dąbrowski R. , Dziurka R.
Published: March 2011

Tempering Temperature Effects on Hardness and Impact Toughness of 56NiCrMo7 Steel

The assessment of the effect of tempering temperature on hardness and impact toughness of a 56NiCrMo7 grade hot work tool steel was presented in the paper. It has been found that the investigated steel, after quenching in oil from 800°C, softens quite slowly upon tempering within the range between 100 and 675°C, which was confirmed not only by hardness measurements but also by observed changes occurring in its microstructure, whereas the impact energy (KV) absorbed by the test specimen increases with temperature, achieving >66J after tempering at 675°C. The changes observed in the character of the fracture surfaces allows of interpretation of the impact test results for the whole range of tempering temperatures.
Lichen flora of Žumberak-Samoborsko gorje Nature Park, NW Croatia
Authors: Partl Anamarija
Published: March 2011

Lichen flora of Žumberak-Samoborsko gorje Nature Park, NW Croatia

During 2007 and 2008 epiphytic and terrestrial lichen communities were surveyed in the Žumberak-Samoborsko gorje Nature Park (NW Croatia); 84 taxa were recorded including, Lecanora thysanophora, which was new to Croatia, and four, Bryoria fuscescens, Lobaria pulmonaria, Usnea subfloridana and Usnea hirta, which are red data species in Croatia.
Orchid diversity of the cape of Kamenjak (Istria, Croatia)
Authors: Vuković Nina , Brana Slavko , Mitić Božena
Published: March 2011

Orchid diversity of the cape of Kamenjak (Istria, Croatia)

Twentytwo taxa have been recorded in the south of Istrian peninsula (north Adriatic coast, Croatia). The research was performed in the period 2003-2004. A great majority of taxa belong to Euri-Mediterranean (seven taxa, 41.18%) and Steno-Mediterranean (six taxa, 35.29%) floral elements. Eurasiatic (two taxa, 11.76%), Atlantic (one taxa, 5.88%) and endemic (one taxon, 5.88%) plants were also present. Almost a half of recorded orchids are abundant or frequent. The most of taxa are endangered s.l.; nine vulnerable (VU) plants (52.94%), and one species endangered s.s. (EN) (5.88%). There are also near threatened (NT) (two taxa, 11.76%), and data deficient (DD) (one taxon, 5.88%) plants, while others have no category assigned (four taxa, 23.53%).
Mericarp micromorphology and anatomy of Salvia hedgeana Dönmez, S. huberi Hedge and S. rosifolia Sm. (section Salvia Hedge, Lamiaceae)
Authors: Büyükkartal Hatice , Kahraman Ahmet , Çölgeçen Hatice , Doğan Musa , Karabacak Ersin
Published: March 2011

Mericarp micromorphology and anatomy ofSalvia hedgeanaDönmez,S. huberiHedge andS. rosifoliaSm. (sectionSalviaHedge, Lamiaceae)

Mericarp (nutlet) micromorphology and pericarp structure of three morphologically similar endemicSalviaspecies;Salvia hedgeana, S. huberiandS. rosifoliawere investigated using LM, SEM and TEM.Salvia hedgeanahas larger mericarps and abscission scars thanS. huberiandS. rosifolia. Mericarp length to width ratio ranges from 1.11 inS. hedgeanato 1.60 inS. huberi. Mericarp shape is mainly ovoid, rarely broadly ovoid inS. hedgeana, and oblong inS. huberi. The mericarp surface sculpturing pattern in all species is colliculate. However, exocarp cells are pentangular-hexangular inS. hedgeana, irregular inS. huberiand rounded and smaller inS. rosifolia. InSalvia huberianticlinal walls are undulate whereas inS. hedgeanaandS. rosifoliaanticlinal walls are straight.Salvia hedgeanawas distinguished from the others by the thickest pericarp (146-185 μm). The sclerenchymatous region significantly varied between the species. It was 84-99 μm inS. hedgeana, 56-82 μm inS. huberiand 27-61 μm inS. rosifolia. The mesocarp was also thicker inS. hedgeana. The wetted mericarps produced mucilage, butS. huberidiffered from the others in having translucent-milky white opaque mucilage with fibres or radiating cordons.
Cytochemical and ultrastructural observations of anthers and pollen grains in Lathyrus undulatus Boiss
Authors: Vardar Filiz , Ünal Meral
Published: March 2011

Cytochemical and ultrastructural observations of anthers and pollen grains inLathyrus undulatusBoiss

InLathyrus undulatusBoiss. (Fabaceae), the young microspore stage of anther development was characterized by the enlarged secretory tapetal cells, which presented an intense reaction with regard to protein, insoluble polysaccharides and lipids. At bicellular pollen stage, the middle layer and the tapetum degenerated. After degradation of the tapetum, epidermis and single row U-shaped endothecium existed in the mature anther wall, and pollen grains remained in the locus. Young microspores had a spherical and centrally located nucleus with one or two nucleoli, many spherical lipid bodies and starchy plastids. A mature pollen grain contains insoluble polysaccharides, proteins, lipids and calcium. The mature pollen had the following morphological characteristics: 3-zonocolporate, prolate, tectate (imperforate) type of exine and perforate type of structure. The intine formed an important constituent portion of the wall, and consisted two sublayers: an outer intine (exintine) and an inner intine (endintine). The well-defined exine was made up of lipoidal substances and protein, but the intine composed of insoluble polysaccharides and protein. The bicellular state of the pollen grains persisted to anthesis.
Process Centerless Recess Grinding
Authors: Malík Andrej , Görög Augustín
Published: March 2011

Process Centerless Recess Grinding

The article deals with special centerless grinding using various methods, particularly the centerless grinding recess methods. The results of measuring the surface roughness of frontal and cylindrical areas of a workpiece, as well as the roundness of the cylindrical surface of the workpiece are presented in the paper. Qualitative parameters of the machined surfaces are supplemented by the course of the grinding process. The change in the shape of the workpiece in the process of grinding causes also the change of position of the workpiece in the work zone.
Selection of Materials and Technology for Forming the Layers Resistant to Abrasive Wear
Authors: Revesová Silvia , Blaškovitš Pavel
Published: March 2011

Selection of Materials and Technology for Forming the Layers Resistant to Abrasive Wear

This article deals with the selection of materials for forming wear resistant layers within agricultural machine parts wear. We can achieve required hardness, wear resistance and life extension of agricultural machine parts and tools by the selection of a suitable material and surfacing technology.
Electron Beam Welding of Duplex Steels with using Heat Treatment
Authors: Schwarz Ladislav , Vrtochová Tatiana , Ulrich Koloman
Published: March 2011

Electron Beam Welding of Duplex Steels with using Heat Treatment

This contribution presents characteristics, metallurgy and weldability of duplex steels with using concentrated energy source. The first part of the article describes metallurgy of duplex steels and the influence of nitrogen on their solidification. The second part focuses on weldability of duplex steels with using electron beam aimed on acceptable structure and corrosion resistance performed by multiple runs of defocused beam over the penetration weld.
Examining Evictions through a Life-Course Lens
Authors: McDonald Lynn
Published: March 2011

Evictions, as markers of housing instability, call attention to the “housing affordability crisis.” The purpose of this research was to examine the individual and structural circumstances that contributed to eviction transitions in housing careers across the life course, how housing trajectories spiralled into homelessness, and how the confluence of social policies operated during these transitions. Qualitative interviews indicated that transitions from eviction to homelessness were entangled across the life course and stretched across generations. The study shows how housing policies interact with life-course events and other policies to produce negative and costly effects for the precariously housed.
Cohort and Period Perspectives on Gender, Education, and Earnings in Canada
Authors: Ornstein Michael
Published: March 2011

Analysis of the 1971–2001 Canadian Censuses shows that both cohort- and period-based analyses contribute to understanding change. Cohort models reveal substantial reshaping of the age trajectories of the earnings of full-time full-year workers. The earnings of young men declined substantially, men's earnings increased more rapidly with age, the age of peak earnings increased, and earnings declined less after their peak. Women's earnings, nearly unrelated to age in 1970, came to resemble the age trajectory of men. Earnings trajectories are also a function of education, immigration, and racialization. The period models reveal a substantial shock between 1970 and 1980 that dramatically increased the earnings of women and lowered the university premium at all ages. These results do not support the argument that skill-biased technological change (SBTC) reshaped the earnings.
Contralateral spinal accessory nerve for ipsilateral neurotization of branches of the brachial plexus: a cadaveric feasibility study
Authors: Tubbs R. Shane , Mortazavi Martin M. , Shoja Mohammadali M. , Loukas Marios , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A.
Published: March 2011

Object

Additional nerve transfer options are important to the peripheral nerve surgeon to maximize patient outcomes following nerve injuries. Potential regional donors may also be injured or involved in the primary disease. Therefore, potential contralateral donor nerves would be desirable. To the authors' knowledge, use of the contralateral spinal accessory nerve (SAN) has not been explored for ipsilateral neurotization procedures. In the current study, therefore, the authors aimed to evaluate the SAN as a potential donor nerve for contralateral nerve injuries by using a novel technique.

Methods

In 10 cadavers, the SAN was harvested using a posterior approach, and tunneled subcutaneously to the contralateral side for neurotization to various branches of the brachial plexus. Measurements were made of the SAN available for transfer and of its diameter.

Results

The authors found an SAN length of approximately 20 cm (from transition of upper and middle fibers of the trapezius muscle to approximately 2–4 cm superior to the insertion of the trapezius muscle onto the spinous process of T-12) available for nerve transposition. The average diameter was 2.5 mm.

Conclusions

Based on these findings, the contralateral SAN may be considered for ipsilateral neurotization to the suprascapular and axillary nerves.
Epigenetic Alteration by DNA Promoter Hypermethylation of Genes Related to Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) Signaling in Cancer
Authors: Khin Sann Sanda , Kitazawa Riko , Kondo Takeshi , Idei Yuka , Fujimoto Masayo , Haraguchi Ryuma , Mori Kiyoshi , Kitazawa Sohei
Published: March 2011

Epigenetic alterations in cancer, especially DNA methylation and histone modification, exert a significant effect on the deregulated expression of cancer-related genes and lay an epigenetic pathway to carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Global hypomethylation and local hypermethylation of CpG islands in the promoter region, which result in silencing tumor suppressor genes, constitute general and major epigenetic modification, the hallmark of the neoplastic epigenome. Additionally, methylation-induced gene silencing commonly affects a number of genes and increases with cancer progression. Indeed, cancers with a high degree of methylation (CpG island methylator phenotype/CIMP) do exist and represent a distinct subset of certain cancers including colorectal, bladder and kidney. On the other hand, signals from the microenvironment, especially those from transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), induce targeted de novo epigenetic alterations of cancer-related genes. While TGF-β signaling has been implicated in two opposite roles in cancer, namely tumor suppression and tumor promotion, its deregulation is also partly induced by epigenetic alteration itself. Although the epigenetic pathway to carcinogenesis and cancer progression has such reciprocal complexity, the important issue is to identify genes or signaling pathways that are commonly silenced in various cancers in order to find early diagnostic and therapeutic targets. In this review, we focus on the epigenetic alteration by DNA methylation and its role in molecular modulations of the TGF-β signaling pathway that cause or underlie altered cancer-related gene expression in both phases of early carcinogenesis and late cancer progression.
Targets and Mechanisms of Photodynamic Therapy in Lung Cancer Cells: A Brief Overview
Authors: Chiaviello Angela , Postiglione Ilaria , Palumbo Giuseppe
Published: March 2011

Lung cancer remains one of the most common cancer-related causes of death. This type of cancer typically develops over a period of many years, and if detected at an early enough stage can be eliminated by a variety of treatments including photodynamic therapy (PDT). A critical discussion on the clinical applications of PDT in lung cancer is well outside the scope of the present report, which, in turn focuses on mechanistic and other aspects of the photodynamic action at a molecular and cellular level. The knowledge of these issues at pre-clinical levels is necessary to develop, check and adopt appropriate clinical protocols in the future. This report, besides providing general information, includes a brief overview of present experimental PDT and provides some non-exhaustive information on current strategies aimed at further improving the efficacy, especially in regard to lung cancer cells.
Photopyroelectric Spectroscopic Studies of ZnO-MnO2-Co3O4-V2O5 Ceramics
Authors: Rizwan Zahid , Zakaria Azmi , Ghazali Mohd Sabri Mohd
Published: March 2011

Photopyroelectric (PPE) spectroscopy is a nondestructive tool that is used to study the optical properties of the ceramics (ZnO + 0.4MnO2 + 0.4Co3O4 + xV2O5), x = 0–1 mol%. Wavelength of incident light, modulated at 10 Hz, was in the range of 300–800 nm. PPE spectrum with reference to the doping level and sintering temperature is discussed. Optical energy band-gap (Eg) was 2.11 eV for 0.3 mol% V2O5 at a sintering temperature of 1025 °C as determined from the plot (ρhυ)2 versus hυ. With a further increase in V2O5, the value of Eg was found to be 2.59 eV. Steepness factor ‘σA’ and ‘σB’, which characterize the slope of exponential optical absorption, is discussed with reference to the variation of Eg. XRD, SEM and EDAX are also used for characterization of the ceramic. For this ceramic, the maximum relative density and grain size was observed to be 91.8% and 9.5 μm, respectively.
Tamm-Horsfall Glycoprotein Enhances PMN Phagocytosis by Binding to Cell Surface-Expressed Lactoferrin and Cathepsin G That Activates MAP Kinase Pathway
Authors: Siao Syue-Cian , Li Ko-Jen , Hsieh Song-Chou , Wu Cheng-Han , Lu Ming-Chi , Tsai Chang-Youh , Yu Chia-Li
Published: March 2011

The molecular basis of polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) phagocytosis-enhancing activity (PEA) by human purified urinary Tamm-Horsfall glyco- protein (THP) has not been elucidated. In this study, we found human THP bound to lactoferrin (LF) and cathepsin G (CG) expressed on the surface of PMN, identified by a proteomic study with MALDI-TOF- LC/LC/mass spectrometric analysis. Pre-incubation of 10% SDS-PAGE electrophoresed PMN lysates with monoclonal anti-LF or anti-CG antibody reduced the binding with THP. To elucidate the signaling pathway of THP on PMN activation, we found THP enhanced ERK1/2 phosphorylation, reduced p38 MAP kinase phosphorylation, but had no effect on DNA binding of the five NF-kB family members in PMN. To further clarify whether the carbohydrate-side chains or protein-core structure in THP molecule is responsible for THP-PEA, THP was cleaved by different degrading enzymes with carbohydrate specificity (neuraminidase and β-galactosidase), protein specificity (V8 protease and proteinase K) or glycoconjugate specificity (carboxylpeptidase Y and O-sialoglycoprotein endopeptidase). We clearly demonstrated that the intact protein-core structure in THP molecule was more important for THP-PEA than carbohydrate-side chains. Putting these results together, we conclude that THP adheres to surface-expressed LF and CG on PMN and transduces signaling via the MAP kinase pathway to enhance PMN phagocytosis.
Integrating Geographical Information Systems, Fuzzy Logic and Analytical Hierarchy Process in Modelling Optimum Sites for Locating Water Reservoirs. A Case Study of the Debub District in Eritrea
Authors: Tsiko Rodney G. , Haile Tesfalem S.
Published: March 2011

The aim of this study was to model water reservoir site selection for a real world application in the administrative district of Debub, Eritrea. This is a region were scarcity of water is a fundamental problem. Erratic rainfall, drought and unfavourable hydro-geological characteristics exacerbates the region’s water supply. Consequently, the population of Debub is facing severe water shortages and building reservoirs has been promoted as a possible solution to meet the future demand of water supply. This was the most powerful motivation to identify candidate sites for locating water reservoirs. A number of conflicting qualitative and quantitative criteria exist for evaluating alternative sites. Decisions regarding criteria are often accompanied by ambiguities and vagueness. This makes fuzzy logic a more natural approach to this kind of Multi-criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) problems. This paper proposes a combined two-stage MCDA methodology. The first stage involved utilizing the most simplistic type of data aggregation techniques known as Boolean Intersection or logical AND to identify areas restricted by environmental and hydrological constraints and therefore excluded from further study. The second stage involved integrating fuzzy logic with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to identify optimum and back-up candidate water reservoir sites in the area designated for further study.
L'après-coup du colloque en guise d'introduction
Authors: Benarab Kedidja , Bugglin Élisabeth
Published: March 2011

Résumé L’originalité de cette journée a été de confronter des processus par lesquels le psychanalyste rencontre un écrivain et comment cette rencontre influe sur son travail avec ses patients. Se succéderont ainsi les élaborations de Pascal Herlem autour de la « force fantasmante » et du concept « d’ontalgie » de R. Queneau ; celles de Maurice Rey poursuivant ce sujet de manière plus tragique avec Rainer Maria Rilke, pour qui la place du moi-corps reste source continuelle de découverte et d’angoisse. Olivier Paccoud décrit un paysage fixé dans un perceptif traumatique, par lequel le poète André Du Bouchet se trouve sans cesse retraversé car à travers sa poésie , qui interroge les analystes, il reconvoque le pulsionnel infantile pour lier les excès d’une catastrophe. Ghyslain Lévy parti du travail d’Hélène Cixous questionne les temps ultimes accordés aux soins du corps maternel mourant et l’approche de l’irrémédiable à venir, à réintroduire dans le quotidien . Psychanalyse, science poétique ou poésie scientifique, demande Jean-Baptiste Guillaumin, s’éclairant de l’utilisation des lectures de son patient pouvant aussi devenir celles de l’analyste. Quant à Marianne Alphant, écrivain non psychanalyste, elle évoque la façon dont elle a pu dépasser ses amnésies et vécus d’étrangeté, en faisant de son addiction à ses lectures l’objet de sa cure analytique.
De la lecture à l'analyse
Authors: Alphant Marianne
Published: March 2011

Résumé 3 L’auteur évoque le parcours ayant animé l’écriture de son livre Petite nuit . Elle n’a pas eu, à l’origine, un objectif de récit de cure, mais au fil du texte, l’écrit s’est profilé comme celui de « l’écrivain et son analyste » en s’en révélant un moteur latent. Son livre est devenu le carrefour de deux lieux psychiques : la lecture et l’analyse. L’enquête intime de l’auteur décrit l’évolution énigmatique du surgissement de situations de lectures ressassées dans la mémoire, du rôle addictif et étrange des livres dans le cours de sa vie, ainsi que celui de certaines surprenantes amnésies. Peu à peu l’analyste a surgi dans l’écriture, avec sa ponctuation d’écoute faisant holding , permettant à l’écrivain de reconnaître et nommer la fonction très profonde de la lecture dans son histoire et sa vie psychique.
Freud, la psychanalyse et la littérature
Authors: Kamieniak Jean-Pierre
Published: March 2011

Résumé Freud était fin lettré et grand lecteur. La littérature occupe, en effet, une place de choix dans les plaisirs de l’homme et la curiosité du chercheur. Le génie viennois la considérera d’ailleurs comme une alliée précieuse quant à la compréhension des processus psychiques qui président à l’élaboration du rêve, avant que d’en faire – en tant que production – l’objet même de ses investigations, la resituant à sa juste place en regard de la science nouvelle. Aussi cette réflexion entend-elle retracer les grandes lignes de ce trajet freudien, qui mêle au bonheur de la lecture l’acuité de la découverte.
La psychose plus vraie que nature … Ou d'écrire « l'amante en glaise »
Authors: Selz Monique
Published: March 2011

Résumé Un texte qui dit et montre, une mise en scène qui en fait un véritable documentaire, un jeu d’acteurs d’une extrême justesse : ou comment une représentation théâtrale, tout en apportant le plaisir et l’émotion que l’on vient chercher, a le pouvoir de transmettre magistralement au spectateur ce qu’est la psychose vécue au quotidien par le sujet lui-même et par son entourage immédiat. C’est ce qu’offrait L’amante anglaise jouée au théâtre de la Madeleine, au printemps 2009.
Stability of RealC*-Algebras
Authors: Boersema Jeffrey L. , Ruiz Efren
Published: March 2011

We will give a characterization of stable realC*-algebras analogous to the one given for complexC*-algebras by Hjelmborg and Rørdam. Using this result, we will prove that any realC*-algebra satisfying the corona factorization property is stable if and only if its complexification is stable. RealC*-algebras satisfying the corona factorization property include AF-algebras and purely infiniteC*-algebras. We will also provide an example of a simple unstableC*-algebra, the complexification of which is stable.
Nondegeneracy for Lie Triple Systems and Kantor Pairs
Authors: García Esther , Lozano Miguel Gómez , Neher Erhard
Published: March 2011

We study the transfer of nondegeneracy between Lie triple systems and their standard Lie algebra envelopes as well as between Kantor pairs, their associated Lie triple systems, and their Lie algebra envelopes. We also show that simple Kantor pairs and Lie triple systems in characteristic 0 are nondegenerate.
Nonconstant Continuous Functions whose Tangential Derivative Vanishes along a Smooth Curve
Authors: Moonens Laurent
Published: March 2011

We provide a simple example showing that the tangential derivative of a continuous function ϕ can vanish everywhere along a curve while the variation of ϕ along this curve is nonzero. We give additional regularity conditions on the curve and/or the function that prevent this from happening.
The Infimum in the Metric Mahler Measure
Authors: Samuels Charles L.
Published: March 2011

Dubickas and Smyth defined the metric Mahler measure on the multiplicative group of non-zero algebraic numbers. The definition involves taking an infimum over representations of an algebraic number α by other algebraic numbers. We verify their conjecture that the infimum in its definition is always achieved, and we establish its analog for the ultrametric Mahler measure.