bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinetics of Aqueous Alteration of P0798 Simulated Waste Glass in the Presence of Bentonite
Authors: Yamaguchi K. , Inagaki Y. , Saruwatari T. , Idemitsu K. , Arima T. , Yoshikawa H. , Yui M.
Published: April 2011

Static aqueous alteration tests were performed with a Japanese simulated HLW glass, P0798, in the presence of bentonite in order to understand the effects of bentonite on the glass alteration kinetics and on the associated Cs release. Analogous alteration tests were performed in 0.001M NaOH solution without bentonite for comparison. The results indicated that; 1) at the initial stage of alteration up to 50 days, no remarkable difference was observed in the alteration rate between both cases “with” and “without” bentonite, 2) at the later stage beyond 50 days, however, the rate in the case “with” bentonite was larger than that in the case “without” bentonite. These results on the alteration rate were analyzed by use of a water-diffusion model. In the case “without” bentonite, a good agreement was observed between the model analysis and the experimental results at the initial stage of alteration up to 50 days, however, the model analysis deviated from the experimental results at the later stage beyond 50 days. In the case “with” bentonite, on the other hand, a good agreement was observed even at the later stage to give the value of the apparent diffusion coefficient, Di of 3.5×10−21m2/s. The comparison between both cases suggests that the alteration rate is controlled by the water diffusion in both cases “with” and “without” bentonite, however, the rate is depressed in the case “without” bentonite probably by the protective effects of the alteration layer developing at the glass surface. In the case “with” bentonite, on the other hand, the alteration layer is expected to be less protective. Cesium desorption tests performed for the altered glass and bentonite indicated that most of the cesium dissolved from the glass is retained in the secondary phase of smectite developing in the precipitated layer by sorption with ion-exchange in the case “without” bentonite. In the case “with” bentonite, however, it is likely to be sorbed at bentonite surface.
Assessing the durability of nuclear glass with respect to silica controlling processes in a clayey underground disposal
Authors: Windt Laurent De , Leclercq Stéphanie , van der Lee Jan
Published: April 2011

The long-term behaviour of vitrified high-level waste in an underground clay repository was assessed by using the reactive transport model HYTEC with respect to silica diffusion, sorption and precipitation processes. Special attention was given to the chemical interactions between glass, corroded steel and the host-rock considering realistic time scale and repository design. A kinetic and congruent dissolution law of R7T7 nuclear glass was used assuming a first-order dissolution rate, which is chemistry dependent, as well as a long-term residual rate. Without silica sorption and precipitation, glass dissolution is diffusion-driven and the fraction of altered glass after 100,000 years ranges from 5% to 50% depending on the fracturation degree of the glass block. Corrosion products may limit glass dissolution by controlling silica diffusion, whereas silica sorption on such products has almost no effect on glass durability. Within the clayey host-rock, precipitation of silicate minerals such as chalcedony may affect glass durability much more significantly than sorption. In that case, however, a concomitant porosity drop is predicted that could progressively reduce silica diffusion and subsequent glass alteration.
Chemical durability of high-level waste glass in repository environment: main conclusions and remaining uncertainties from the GLASTAB and GLAMOR projects
Authors: Iseghem P. Van , Lemmens K. , Aertsens M. , Gin S. , Ribet I. , Grambow B. , Crovisier J.L. , Nero M. Del , Curti E. , Schwyn B. , Luckscheiter B. , McMenamin T.
Published: April 2011

This paper reviews the main conclusions of two European Commission funded projects, GLASTAB and GLAMOR, on the durability of HLW glass in geological disposal, and the remaining uncertainties. The progress in GLASTAB relates to the characterization of the alteration layer, the modeling of glass dissolution, the interaction of glass with near field materials, the behaviour of radionuclides, and the calculation of HLW glass dissolution as part of geological disposal. The GLAMOR programme was focused on the decrease of the glass dissolution rate upon achieving silica saturation in solution. Two conclusions from this programme are the importance of the residual rate measured beyond silica saturation and the need to reduce the uncertainties in model parameters. The overall conclusion from the two projects is that strong progress has been achieved on basic dissolution mechanisms and interaction with disposal environments - HLW glass will act as a good barrier to the release of radionuclides in geologic disposal.
Development and application of knowledge-based source-term models for radionuclide mobilisation from contaminated concrete
Authors: Deissmann Guido , Bath Adrian , Jefferis Stephan , Thierfeldt Stefan , Wörlen Stefan
Published: April 2011

Concrete materials in nuclear facilities may become activated or contaminated by various radionuclides through different mechanisms. Consequently, decommissioning and dismantling of these facilities produce considerable quantities of these materials (e.g. concrete structures, rubble), which are at least potentially contaminated with radionuclides and which must be managed safely and cost-effectively. In this paper, we present results from a research project that aims at the development of source-term models for the mobilization of radionuclides from contaminated concrete. The objective of this task was to clarify whether a more realistic source-term description could be beneficial for optimization of the management of decommissioning wastes by reducing the amount of material for disposal as radioactive waste as well as by saving natural resources due to the recycling of building materials.

To identify important parameters and processes that affect the release rates of radionuclides, we evaluated the chemical behavior and the solid speciation of radionuclides in concrete materials and the influence of factors like concrete properties, source/pathway of contamination, and the scenario-specific chemical environment and hydraulic regime. Furthermore, concrete degradation processes and their influence on contaminant mobilization were addressed. On this basis, source-term models were developed to describe the radionuclide release by (i) the dissolution of radionuclide containing solid phases, (ii) the desorption of radionuclides from surfaces, and/or (iii) the leaching of radionuclides from a solid matrix without disrupting its structure. These source-term models were parameterized for probabilistic simulations of various release options, including the reuse of recycled building materials, the disposal of rubble in inert and municipal landfills as well as the on-site disposal of concrete materials (e.g. foundations remaining in the ground, in situ burial of rubble). For some scenarios and radionuclides, the calculated release rates were between one and two orders of magnitude lower than those used in former generic calculations. Based on the results of stochastic simulations, the consequences of the use of a more realistic source-term for dose assessments with respect to clearance/recycling of contaminated concrete will be illustrated and discussed.
Magnetic anisotropy, sress, and martensitic transformation in Ni-Mn-Ga thin films on Si(100) wafer
Authors: Hagler Michael , Chernenko Volodymyr A. , Ohtsuka Makoto , Besseghini Stefano , M¨llner Peter
Published: April 2011

Ni-Mn-Ga magnetic shape memory alloys (MSMAs) tend to undergo a large deformation upon the application of a magnetic field. This deformation is attributed to twin boundary motion in the martensitic phase. In an effort to harness the shape memory effect for use in sensors, actuators, and micro-devices, the behavior of Ni-Mn-Ga thin films is attracting attention. Substrate curvature measurements were done with Ni-Mn-Ga films with a thickness of 2.0 μm sputter-deposited on Si(100) wafer having amorphous 500 nm thick SiNx buffer layer. During the wafer bow curvature measurements, stress levels of 0.65 GPa were attained. The martensitic transformation is manifested by a stress-temperature hysteretic loop. Measurements of magnetization curves were carried out on Ni-Mn-Ga films with thickness between 0.5 and 3.0 μm. A change of the magnetization behavior from the easy-plane type for thin films to the out-of-plane easy-axis type for thick films is observed. This effect is caused by the interplay between different contributions to the overall anisotropy of film.
HRTEM and EELS Studies of Py/Al and Co/Al Multilayers
Authors: Zhang Jiaming , Crimp Martin A. , Theodoropoulou N. , Sharma A. , Loloee R. , Pratt W. P. , Bass J.
Published: April 2011

Ferromagnetic/non-magnetic (F/N) metallic multilayers in the Current-Perpendicular-to-Plane (CPP) geometry show giant Magnetoresistance (MR) and are promising candidates for potential use in high density storage devices. F/Al interfaces were recently shown to have large interface specific resistances that enhance the CPP-resistance. However, the CPP resistances showed instability over time at room temperature and also upon annealing to 453K. To help understand both the large interface specific resistances and their instabilities, we have undertaken cross-sectional High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) and Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) studies of both as-sputtered and annealed Py/Al and Co/Al multilayers. We find well-layered, but rough structures with local F/Al interfaces being tilted up to ˜15°from the plane perpendicular to the growth direction. HRTEM images appear to show diffuse interfaces, but a through-focus series of images suggests considerable grain overlap in the electron beam direction, thereby complicating interpretation. This combination of HRTEM imaging and EELS analysis suggests that any interfacial mixing is limited in scale, and shows no evidence of intermetallic compound formation. No obvious differences are seen between assputtered and annealed samples.
Efeito da adição de óleos ao acaricida cyhexatin sobre o ácaro Brevipalpus phoenicis e na retenção de calda por folhas de citros
Authors: Andrade Daniel Júnior de , Ferreira Marcelo da Costa , Santos Natali Calazança dos
Published: April 2011

A adição de óleos à calda de pulverização, muitas vezes, é utilizada a campo sem o adequado conhecimento sobre a absorção do produto fitossanitário pelo alvo, retenção de calda e até mesmo sobre a praga e a cultura. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da adição de óleos ao acaricida cyhexatin sobre o ácaro Brevipalpus phoenicis e na retenção de calda por folhas de citros. Avaliou-se a mortalidade de ácaros, utilizando-se de frutos de laranja com uma arena circundada com cola entomológica para confinar os ácaros. Adotou-se o delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial, constituído pelos fatores: duas formulações de cyhexatin (WG e SC), dois tipos de óleo (mineral e vegetal) e duas concentrações dos óleos (0,5 e 1,0%), e mais dois tratamentos adicionais (acaricidas não adicionados de óleo) e uma testemunha sem aplicação. A aplicação dos produtos foi realizada sobre frutos de laranja até além do ponto de escorrimento. Logo após a aplicação, transferiram-se 10 ácaros B. phoenicis para cada fruto.A contagem dos ácaros vivos, mortos e retidos na barreira adesiva foi realizada um dia após a aplicação. Para a determinação da quantidade de calda retida, utilizaram-se folhas de laranjeira, que foram pulverizadas até além do ponto de escorrimento, adotando-se os mesmos tratamentos e o delineamento estatístico mencionados para a avaliação da mortalidade de ácaros, com exceção da testemunha sem aplicação. Determinou-se a massa de líquido retido após a aplicação dos produtos por folha, com auxílio de balança de precisão. Verificou-se que um dia após a aplicação dos produtos, todos os tratamentos apresentaram mortalidade de B. phoenicis acima de 99%. Dessa forma, a adição de óleo, seja mineral, seja vegetal, ao acaricida cyhexatin não afetou a eficácia biológica deste acaricida nas formulações SC e WG. A maior fuga de B. phoenicis para a barreira de cola foi verificada nos tratamentos com adição de óleos, em comparação ao cyhexatin aplicado isoladamente. A adição de óleo, seja mineral, seja vegetal, ao cyhexatin na calda de pulverização reduziu a quantidade máxima de líquido retido pelas folhas de citros, podendo contribuir para a redução da quantidade de calda necessária para uma boa cobertura da planta.
Evidence of Qualitative Differences between Soil-Occupancy Effects of Invasive vs. Native Grassland Plant Species
Authors: Jordan Nicholas R. , Larson Diane L. , Huerd Sheri C.
Published: April 2011

Diversified grasslands that contain native plant species are being recognized as important elements of agricultural landscapes and for production of biofuel feedstocks as well as a variety of other ecosystem services. Unfortunately, establishment of such grasslands is often difficult, unpredictable, and highly vulnerable to interference and invasion by weeds. Evidence suggests that soil-microbial “legacies” of invasive perennial species can inhibit growth of native grassland species. However, previous assessments of legacy effects of soil occupancy by invasive species that invade grasslands have focused on single invasive species and on responses to invasive soil occupancy in only a few species. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that legacy effects of invasive species differ qualitatively from those of native grassland species. In a glasshouse, three invasive and three native grassland perennials and a native perennial mixture were grown separately through three cycles of growth and soil conditioning in soils with and without arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), after which we assessed seedling growth in these soils. Native species differed categorically from invasives in their response to soil conditioning by native or invasive species, but these differences depended on the presence of AMF. When AMF were present, native species largely had facilitative effects on invasive species, relative to effects of invasives on other invasives. Invasive species did not facilitate native growth; neutral effects were predominant, but strong soil-mediated inhibitory effects on certain native species occurred. Our results support the hypothesis that successful plant invaders create biological legacies in soil that inhibit native growth, but suggest also this mechanism of invasion will have nuanced effects on community dynamics, as some natives may be unaffected by such legacies. Such native species may be valuable as nurse plants that provide cost-effective restoration of soil conditions needed for efficient establishment of diversified grasslands.
Tarping as an Alternative for Perennial Pepperweed (Lepidium latifolium) Control
Authors: Hutchinson Rachel A. , Viers Joshua H.
Published: April 2011

Perennial pepperweed (Lepidium latifolium) is a potential threat to biodiversity and ecosystem function in the communities that it invades. The mechanism for its successful invasion of riparian and wetland environments includes reproduction via seed and root propagules and its ability to withstand long duration flooding and saline conditions once established. Controlling this species presents a number of challenges for land managers, including difficult property access, limited herbicide choice, and the varied success of weed control measures. In this study, we tested the efficacy of a nonchemical-modified tarp treatment, and compared posttreatment stem counts to herbicide treatments with Mow–glyphosate and chlorsulfuron in a wildland setting. We found that tarping applied in combination with a mow and till treatment was effective at controlling perennial pepperweed at levels similar to herbicide treatments with Mow–glyphosate and with Mow–chlorsulfuron. However, Mow–Till–Tarp treatment is extremely time consuming and has the potential to limit native plant community recovery.
Are We “Missing the Boat” on Preventing the Spread of Invasive Plants in Rangelands?
Authors: Davies Kirk W. , Johnson Dustin D.
Published: April 2011

Invasive plants are negatively affecting the ecological and economic production of rangelands by reducing resource productivity, decreasing biodiversity, displacing native vegetation, and altering ecosystem processes and functions. However, despite these well-known negative effects, once invasive plants are regionally established, limited effort is directed at preventing their continued spread across rangelands. Most efforts are directed at restoration at specific locations while additional rangelands are invaded. Restoring native plant communities invaded by exotic plants is frequently unsuccessful, especially in more arid environments, and is often too costly to apply at the scale required to make meaningful progress in reducing invasive plant populations relative to their expansion. Of the few prevention efforts being implemented, most are a second priority to control and restoration efforts. Integrating strategies to prevent new infestations and restrict the expansion of existing populations in invasive plant management programs is critical to limiting the negative effects of invasive plants in rangelands. However, we are “missing the boat” on this issue by not providing sufficiently developed and validated management actions. Limited information is available for developing management strategies to prevent the spread of invasive plants, although it has been suggested that land managers need to increase biotic resistance of desired plant communities, decrease invasive plant propagule pressure, and eradicate small incipient infestations to prevent the continued expansion of invasive plants. Thus, instead of scientifically validated methods developed to limit the spread of invasive plants, managers are often left with vague suggestions for preventing the continued spread of invasive plants. We suggest that if prevention is going to be successful, researchers are going to need to conduct more applied research to provide land managers with specific prevention strategies and quantify the benefits of various prevention strategies.
Geographic Origins and Genetic Diversity of Air-Potato (Dioscorea bulbifera) in Florida
Authors: Croxton Matthew D. , Andreu Michael A. , Williams Dean A. , Overholt William A. , Smith Jason A.
Published: April 2011

In Florida, air-potato is an invasive weed with high management priority, which may soon be targeted using classical biological control. This yam was introduced during the early 20th century by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) from areas throughout its extensive range. Our objectives were to characterize the genetic diversity of the invasive population in Florida and to identify the source regions of introduction. Authorities have often asserted the African provenance of the species in Florida, but our analyses, conducted using chloroplast markers, indicate that Florida air-potato is more similar to specimens examined from China than to those from Africa. Low intraspecific genetic diversity in Florida indicates that the invasive population was the result of at least two introductions becoming established in Florida.
Native and Exotic Grass Competition with Invasive Hoary Cress (Cardaria draba)
Authors: Puliafico Kenneth P. , Schwarzländer Mark , Price William J. , Harmon Bradley L. , Hinz Hariet L.
Published: April 2011

The Eurasian perennial mustard, hoary cress,Cardaria draba(Brassicaceae), is an invasive weed in western North America that can displace native plants and other desirable forage species in pastures and rangelands. This study investigated the competitive ability of 11 grasses representing nine species in the generaFestucaandPoafrom either North America (NA) or Europe (EU) against hoary cress. Hoary cress was grown alone and with four different grass densities under controlled conditions with ample water and nutrient supply, typical for riparian and disturbed habitats, in which hoary cress infestations are commonly found. Of the fiveFestucagrasses tested, onlySchedonorus phoenix(=F. arundinacea) decreased hoary cress biomass. Four of the sixPoagrasses tested decreased hoary cress biomass and were ranked by decreasing competitive effects as follows:P. annua>P. compressa(EU) >P. pratensis(EU) >P. compressa(NA). The most competitive grass species also experienced higher intraspecific competition. Within both grass genera, Eurasian species were more competitive against hoary cress than their North American congeners, which suggests that hoary cress establishment may be facilitated by lower biotic resistance in the invaded range. Regardless of origin, sod-formingPoaspecies were competitive at low densities, whileFestucaspecies only had significant effects at high densities if at all. Based on our results we recommend the use ofPoaspecies for restoration of riparian and disturbed sites following the control of hoary cress infestations to restrict recolonization.
Addition of Bevacizumab to XELOX Induction Therapy Plus Concomitant Capecitabine-Based Chemoradiotherapy in Magnetic Resonance Imaging–Defined Poor-Prognosis Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer: The AVACROSS Study
Authors: Nogué Miguel , Salud Antonieta , Vicente Pilar , Arriví Antonio , Roca José María , Losa Ferran , Ponce José , Safont María José , Guasch Inmaculada , Moreno Isabel , Ruiz Ana , Pericay Carles ,   on behalf of the AVACROSS Study Group
Published: April 2011

Background.

Concomitant chemoradiotherapy followed by total mesorectal excision is standard treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer. This approach, however, focuses on local disease control and delays systemic treatment. Induction chemotherapy has the advantage of earlier administration of systemic therapy and may improve distant control. The objective of the current study was to assess the efficacy and toxicity of adding bevacizumab to induction chemotherapy followed by preoperative bevacizumab-based chemoradiotherapy in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer.

Patients and Methods.

Eligible patients had high-risk rectal adenocarcinoma defined by magnetic resonance imaging criteria. Treatment consisted of four 21-day cycles of bevacizumab (7.5 mg/kg) and XELOX (capecitabine plus oxaliplatin), followed by concomitant radiotherapy (50.4 Gy) plus bevacizumab (5 mg/kg every 2 weeks) and capecitabine (825 mg/m2 twice daily on days 1–15). Surgery was scheduled for 6–8 weeks after chemoradiotherapy. The primary endpoint was pathologic complete response (pCR).

Results.

Between July 2007 and July 2008, 47 patients were recruited. Among 45 patients who underwent surgery, pCR was achieved in 16 patients (36%; 95% confidence interval: 22.29%–51.27%), and an additional 17 patients (38%) had Dworak tumor regression grade 3. R0 resection was performed in 44 patients (98%). Most grade 3/4 adverse events occurred during the induction phase and included diarrhea (11%), asthenia (4%), neutropenia (6%), and thrombocytopenia (4%). Eleven patients (24%) required surgical reintervention.

Conclusions.

Addition of bevacizumab to induction chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy is feasible, with impressive activity and manageable toxicity. However, caution is recommended regarding surgical complications.
The Role of n-3 Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Cognitive Function
Authors: Chiu Chih-Chiang , J Stewart Robert , Huang Shih-Yi
Published: April 2011

Recently, there has been an increase in research into the relationship between long-chain n-3
polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) and cognitive function although the topic remains controversial. In
epidemiological studies, fatty fish or n-3 PUFAs consumption has been found to be associated with a reduced risk
of cognitive decline or dementia. In addition, higher proportion of total n-3 PUFAs or higher ratio of n-3 to n-6
PUFAs on erythrocyte membranes have been found to be associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline.
Furthermore, in some animal models, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3) or eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA,
C22:5n-3) administration have been found to improve learning ability and reduce Aβ amyloid deposition.
However, findings from clinical trials of n-3 PUFAs supplementation to improve cognition in older people have
been inconsistent. Some sub-group analyses have suggested that people with mild dementia or mild cognitive
impairment may benefit most. Contradictory results may be clarified by better controlling possible confounders,
more consistency in interventions and outcome measurements, and longer follow-up. Larger but possibly more
focused trials should be considered along with efforts to develop better biomarkers for intervention response.
Beneficial Roles of the n-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on the Management of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Lopez-Alarcon Mardia , Bernabe-Garcia Mariela , Mancilla-Ramirez Javier
Published: April 2011

n-3 Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFAs) reduce inflammation through several
mechanisms; therefore, components of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) may be treated with n-3 LC-PUFAs not
only because of their anti-inflammatory effect but also through other mechanisms that reduce vascular reactivity,
oxidative stress, and insulin resistance. In this chapter, the positive effects of n-3 LC-PUFAs on each component
of the MetS are analyzed. Although information regarding the effect of n-3 LC-PUFAs on obesity is discordant, it
seems to either inhibit weight gain or decrease inflammatory status; thus, a positive effect is expected. Regarding
the effect on hypertension, evidence shows that treatment with n-3 LC-PUFAs reduces blood pressure by
modulating vascular reactivity and reducing arterial thickness. In the case of dyslipidemia, the triacylglycerollowering
properties of n-3 LC-PUFAs are among the best established in vivo actions. These fatty acids also
decrease the assembly and secretion of very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), increase the conversion of VLDL
to LDL particles, and increase β-oxidation of other fatty acids in mitochondria. Finally, insulin sensitivity is
improved by treatment with n-3 LC-PUFAs due to actions on lipid dysregulation, adiponectin production and by
their role as ligands to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. In conclusion, evidence mainly from
randomized trials supports the positive effect of n-3 LC-PUFAs in all four components of the MetS. Such
beneficial roles act at the cellular and the molecular levels and have been demonstrated in animal and human
experimental studies and at the community level. Therefore, use of n-3 LC-PUFAs may be widely recommended
to decrease the MetS and subsequently decrease the risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Effects of n-3 Fatty Acids Supplementation on Insulin Resistance
Authors: Teresa Villarreal-Molina Maria , Canizales-Quinteros Samuel
Published: April 2011

Studies in humans and animal models have demonstrated that fish oil, a natural source of n-3 long
chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA), has clinical significance in the prevention and reversal of insulin
resistance. Many studies support that higher proportion of serum and cell-membrane n-3 PUFA can improve
insulin sensitivity and prevent type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, epidemiological and dietary intervention studies
in healthy, obese and diabetic individuals have produced conflicting results on the metabolic effects of dietary n-3
PUFA. The present chapter discusses updated evidence on this matter, analyzes the possible reasons for these
inconsistencies, and the possible mechanisms by which n-3 LC-PUFA may prevent or revert insulin resistance.
The use of these fatty acids should be part of integral strategies, considering age, gender, metabolic or health
status and other variables. This strategy should include changes in lifestyle, adhering to a healthy diet and regular
physical activity. Although this is encouraging in the perspective of insulin resistance prevention, further clinical
and basic studies must be designed to confirm and complete our knowledge in this field.
Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs) as the "Mind-Body Interface" in Cardiovascular Diseases and Depression
Authors: Pei-Chen Chang Jane , Su Kuan-Pin
Published: April 2011

Depression and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are highly comorbid diseases, implying common
mechanisms interplay between these two. According to recent clinical and basic studies, omega-3 polyunsaturated
fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) seem to be a possible interface. N-3 PUFAs deficiency is associated with dysfunctions of
neuronal membrane stability and transmission of neurotransmitters, which might connect to the etiology of mood
and cognitive dysfunction of depression. N-3 PUFAs is essential in balancing the immune function by reducing
membrane arachidonic acid and prostaglandin E2 synthesis, which have been linked to the somatic manifestations
of CVDs and depression. The role of n-3 PUFAs in immunity and neural function further supports the hypothesis
of psychoneuroimmunology of depression and CVDs and provides an excellent interface between ‘mind’ and
‘body.’ This review is to provide an overview across evidences of the role of n-3 PUFAs in depression and CVD,
and to propose possible mechanisms by which they may act at molecular and cellular levels.
Factor Structure and Psychometric Properties of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) in Older Populations with and without Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Ros L. , Latorre J. M. , Aguilar M. J. , Serrano J. P. , Navarro B. , Ricarte J. J.
Published: April 2011

The CES-D is widely used for the assessment of depressive symptoms in the adult population. However, few studies have been performed to assess the utility of this scale in an older population with cognitive impairment. The factor structure of the Spanish version of the CES-D was examined in an observational, cross sectional study in 623 older adults ( M = 72.74 years; SD = 7.7). The validity of the scale was determined in two samples of older adults, one comprising 162 participants with cognitive impairment ( M = 76.73 years; SD = 8.1) and one with 58 participants without cognitive impairment ( M = 74.64 years; SD = 9.0). The results confirm previous results of a four factor structure. With regard to the validity of the scale, in the group with cognitive impairment the area under the ROC curve is 0.84 (95% CI: 0.77–0.89) and the cut-off point for possible depression is 13, while in the group without cognitive impairment the area is 0.90 (95% CI: 0.79–0.96) and the optimal cut-off point is 28. These results show that the Spanish version of the CES-D is a valid instrument for the identification of depression in older adults with and without cognitive impairment.
Moving International Technical Communication Forward: A World Englishes Approach
Authors: Bokor Michael Jarvis Kwadzo
Published: April 2011

This article explores how the English language contributes to cross-boundary communication failure and establishes that there is an “English language problem” that has not been adequately addressed in preparing United States native English-speaking students for international technical communication tasks. For example, U.S. technical communication scholars are still grappling with the problems of using English in software internationalization and translating technical communication products across boundaries of national culture and language without privileging Western values and beliefs. The tendency is to assume American culture and American Standard English as the norm, and to identify cultural and linguistic differences as problems only when there is a communication failure or when non-native speakers of English translate product users' manuals and other documents for use by Americans. The article draws attention to the limitations of the current favored strategies for training native speakers in international audience analysis and calls for a revamping of the curriculum to allow for the integration of language-based methodologies. It suggests the incorporation of the World Englishes perspective into training programs to internationalize students' learning experiences.
Analysis of Damping Torque and Synchronizing Torque Contributed by STATCOM Considering Two Different Damping Schemes
Authors: AL Jowder Fawzi A. Rahman
Published: April 2011

This paper studies the damping torque and synchronizing torque contributed by STATic Synchronous COMpensator (STATCOM), based on Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), in radial power system considering two different damping schemes: (1) the traditional damping scheme; and (2) a proposed damping scheme. Eigenvalue analysis is used to study the influence of the parameters of the Proportional and Integral (PI) of the dc voltage controller and ac voltage controller, real power, and reactive power as well as the damping controller gain of the STATCOM on the damping torque and synchronizing torque. Using a method developed in the literature, which depends on the time responses of the rotor speed, rotor angle and electrical torque, the damping torque and synchronizing torque coefficients are estimated and compared for different loading conditions and control parameters of STATCOM to confirm the results obtained from the eigenvalue analysis. Non-linear simulations of the STATCOM compensated radial power system using PSCAD are performed to validate the outcomes from the eigenvalue analysis and estimation of damping torque and synchronizing torque coefficients.
Synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial activity of (5- bromo-5-nitro-2-oxido-1,3,2-dioxaphosphinan-2-yl)amino acid esters
Authors: Santhipriya P. , Rani Radha , Reddy Jagannadha , Sundar Syama , Reddy Suresh
Published: April 2011

Synthesis of a new series of (5-bromo-5-nitro-2-oxido-1,3,2-
dioxaphosphinan-2-yl)amino acid esters (3a-l) was accomplished via a two step
process, which involves the prior preparation of the monochloride
intermediate (2) and its subsequent reaction with the amino acid esters in
dry tetrahydrofuran in the presence of triethylamine at reflux temperature.
The title compounds (3a-l) structures were established by analytical, IR,
1H-, 13C- and 31P-NMR, and mass spectral data. They exhibited significant
antibacterial and antifungal activity.
The partial characterization of the antibacterial peptide bacteriocin G2 produced by the probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus plantarum G2
Authors: Seatovic Svetlana , Jovanovic-Novakovic Jelena , Zavisic Gordana , Radulovic Zeljka , Gavrovic-Jankulovic Marija , Jankov Ratko
Published: April 2011

The aim of this study was the partial characterization of the antimicrobial
peptide bacteriocin G2 produced by probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus
plantarum G2, which was isolated from a clinical sample of a healthy person.
Antimicrobial substance was secreted in the supernatant of an L. plantarum
G2 culture, and showed a diverse spectrum of antimicrobial activity of all
the tested strains of the genera Lactobacillus and the pathogenic bacteria
Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella ?bony. Isoelectric focusing revealed
that bacteriocin G2 is a cationic peptide (pI about 10) with a molecular
mass of 2.2 kDa according to tricine-sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide
gel electrophoresis, SDS-PAGE. The antimicrobial activity of bacteriocin G2
was diminished by the proteolytic action of trypsin and proteinase K.
Bacteriocin G2 preserved its biological activity in the temperature range
40-60?C (15 min), which was lost at 80?C. Bacteriocin G2 was stable in the
pH range 2-9, while treatment with 1 % Tween 80 and 1 % urea resulted in
increased antimicrobial activity. The probiotic strain L. plantarum G2
produces the antimicrobial substance proteinaceous in nature with
bacteriocin characteristics. Bacteriocin production is one of the key
properties of probiotic bacteria with clinical potential as anti-infective
agents, which will increase the likelihood of its in vivo efficacy.
Empowered to Empower: A civil society–government partnership to increase girls' junior secondary school outcomes in Morocco
Authors: Muskin Joshua A. , Kamime Abdelhak , Adlaoui Abdellah
Published: April 2011

The empowerment literature has tended to focus on reinforcing the capacity of local populations to act effectively in promoting change on their own behalf. Borrowing from the social capital literature, achieving greater empowerment might be linked also to the actions and aims of the already powerful. A group might endeavor to exert its ability to change a situation or relation in its favour independently, but the ease, degree and durability of any changes will be heightened if they occur with the approval of those who control the major decisive factors or, especially, if they occur in complicity with them. The ‘Quality Girls' Dormitory’ model of the USAID/ALEF Project implemented by the Academy for Educational Development in Morocco (2005–2009) demonstrates the robustness of this dynamic at a few levels. For the girls, empowerment in both their academic and personal lives emerged from their personal growth and from the contexts for success created by their respective schools and the associations operating the dormitories. The associations grew in effectiveness and influence due to both a program of institutional capacity-strengthening and the collaborative approach of the Ministry of Social Affairs, their main funding source. Subsequently, only the ministry was able to undertake the model's nationwide adoption, both generalizing and sustaining the means to empowerment for the associations and the girls.
Girls' Education and Discursive Spaces for Empowerment: Perspectives from Rural India
Authors: Shah Payal P.
Published: April 2011

This article examines a national girls' education program and its role in addressing gender inequality in the Indian state of Gujarat. In 2004, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, enacted the Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyala (KGBV) program. As a national program designed to increase educational access for the most marginalized girls, the KGBV program innovatively partners with the non-governmental organization (NGO) CARE India and employs a curriculum focused on fostering girls' ‘empowerment’. Empowerment, a process relating to an increase in individuals' power over resources and decisions in their life, relies upon education as the key institution to provide the tools to expand women's access to the economic and political spheres of society. Employing an ethnographic and institutional approach, this article empirically investigates the education-empowerment link by examining how institutional form impacts the social processes that both define and characterize empowerment. In other words, it investigates how empowerment is manifested in one KGBV school. It presents an ethnographic study of a KGBV in Gujarat, and identifies findings related to the KGBV program's ability to create a unique ‘space’ that fosters empowerment.
Generation of Stable Pluripotent Stem Cells From NOD Mouse Tail-Tip Fibroblasts
Authors: Liu Jun , Ashton Michelle P. , Sumer Huseyin , O’Bryan Moira K. , Brodnicki Thomas C. , Verma Paul J.
Published: April 2011

OBJECTIVE

The NOD mouse strain has been widely used to investigate the pathology and genetic susceptibility for type 1 diabetes. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from this unique mouse strain would enable new strategies for investigating type 1 diabetes pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets. The objective of this study was to determine whether somatic fibroblasts from NOD mice could be reprogrammed to become iPSCs, providing an alternative source of stem cells for the production of genetically modified NOD cells and mice.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Adult tail-tip fibroblasts from male NOD mice were reprogrammed by retroviral transduction of the coding sequences of three transcription factors, OCT4, SOX2, and KLF4, in combination with a histone deacetylase inhibitor, valproic acid.

RESULTS

Eighteen NOD iPSC lines were generated, and three of these cell lines were further characterized. All three cell lines exhibited silencing of the three reprogramming transgenes and reactivation of endogenous pluripotent markers (OCT4, SOX2, NANOG, REX1, and SSEA1). These NOD iPSCs readily differentiated in vitro to form embryoid bodies and in vivo by teratoma formation in immunodeficient mice. Moreover, NOD iPSCs were successfully transfected with a reporter transgene and were capable of contributing to the inner cell mass of C57BL/6 blastocysts, leading to the generation of a chimeric mouse.

CONCLUSIONS

Adult tail-tip fibroblasts from NOD mice can be reprogrammed, without constitutive ectopic expression of transcription factors, to produce iPSCs that exhibit classic mouse embryonic stem cell (ESC) features. These NOD iPSCs can be maintained and propagated under normal ESC culture conditions to produce genetically altered cell lines, differentiated cells, and chimeric mice.
Impact of Natriuretic Peptide Clearance Receptor (NPR3) Gene Variants on Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Saulnier Pierre-Jean , Roussel Ronan , Halimi Jean Michel , Lebrec Jeremie , Dardari Dured , Maimaitiming Sulyia , Guilloteau Gérard , Prugnard Xavier , Marechaud Richard , Ragot Stephanie , Marre Michel , Hadjadj Samy ,   for the SURDIAGENE, DIAB2NEPHROGENE, and DIABHYCAR study groups
Published: April 2011

OBJECTIVE

Hypertension in diabetes is characterized by abnormal sodium homeostasis, suggesting a particular role of natriuretic peptide pathway. Natriuretic peptides can affect blood pressure (BP) through their plasma concentrations, which are dependent on their receptor activities. We thus assessed the association between nine NPR3 gene polymorphisms and BP levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Nine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) tagging the haplotype structure of the NPR3 gene were genotyped in the 3,126 French Non-insulin-dependent Diabetes, Hypertension, Microalbuminuria or Proteinuria, Cardiovascular Events, and Ramipril (DIABHYCAR) trial participants. We then used a second population (Diabete de type 2, Nephropathie et Genetique [DIAB2NEPHROGENE]/Survie, Diabete de type 2 et Genetique [SURDIAGENE] study) of 2,452 patients for the purpose of replication. Finally, we separately investigated subjects selected according to their rs 2270915SNP genotypes for their BP response to salt restriction.

RESULTS

In DIABHYCAR patients, three SNPs (rs6889608, rs1173773, and rs2270915) were significantly associated with systolic BP (SBP). The effect of the rs2270915 was replicated in the second step population: AA homozygotes had a lower SBP than G carriers (137.4 ± 19.1 vs. 140.0 ± 20.2 mmHg, P = 0.004). The rs2270915 influenced the response of SBP to salt reduction, with AA homozygous patients showing greater reductions after restriction of salt intake compared with G carriers: −20 mmHg (−43 to −8) vs. −3 (−20 to +7); P = 0.006.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a consistent and significant association between the rs2270915 polymorphism of the NPR3 gene and SBP in diabetic patients. This genetic variation may affect pressure response to changes in dietary sodium.
Can Administrative Claim File Review Be Used to Gather Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Psychology Payment Data and Functional Independence Measure Scores? Implications for Rehabilitation Providers in the Private Health Sector
Authors: Riis Viivi , Jaglal Susan , Boschen Kathryn , Walker Jan , Verrier Molly
Published: April 2011

Purpose: Rehabilitation costs for spinal-cord injury (SCI) are increasingly borne by Canada's private health system. Because of poor outcomes, payers are questioning the value of their expenditures, but there is a paucity of data informing analysis of rehabilitation costs and outcomes. This study evaluated the feasibility of using administrative claim file review to extract rehabilitation payment data and functional status for a sample of persons with work-related SCI.

Methods: Researchers reviewed 28 administrative e-claim files for persons who sustained a work-related SCI between 1996 and 2000. Payment data were extracted for physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), and psychology services. Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores were targeted as a surrogate measure for functional outcome. Feasibility was tested using an existing approach for evaluating health services data.

Results: The process of administrative e-claim file review was not practical for extraction of the targeted data.

Conclusions: While administrative claim files contain some rehabilitation payment and outcome data, in their present form the data are not suitable to inform rehabilitation services research. A new strategy to standardize collection, recording, and sharing of data in the rehabilitation industry should be explored as a means of promoting best practices.
The clipping of common and proper nouns
Authors: Berg Thomas
Published: April 2011

This paper takes issue with the general claim that clipping is a quite unpredictable und irregular derivational process in English. An analysis of 955 clippings is performed with a focus on the contrast between foreclipping and backclipping. The decision for or against backclipping is shown to be influenced by several factors – the stress pattern, the length and the lexical class (i.e. common or proper noun) of the base lexeme. A multifactorial analysis reveals that non-initial stress, a high number of syllables, and first-name status decrease the probability of backclipping, which is generally more frequent than foreclipping. A combined psycholinguistic and pragmatic account is developed which relies on a productive constraint facilitating foreclipping and a perceptual constraint facilitating backclipping. Because first names are typically used in highly restrictive pragmatic contexts and are highly predictable, they tolerate even radical forms of clipping which under normal circumstances would strain listeners’ word recognition capacity. By contrast, common nouns are less predictable and therefore support only less disruptive forms of clipping.
Inflectional diagrammaticity in Polish: A case study of Polish children
Authors: Konieczna Ewa
Published: April 2011

This paper constitutes an attempt to describe the early stages of morphological development of three Polish children on the basis of the language corpus collected in the form of parental diaries and audio recordings in the course of three-year-long longitudinal studies. The onset of morphological development is accounted for within the framework of Natural Morphology ( Galeas 1998 , Wurzel 1994 , Dressler et al. 1987 ). It is suggested that the premorphological stage is followed by the protomorphological stage which marks the beginning of morphological productivity, which is characterized by a significant degree of constructional iconicity defined by parameters of morphological naturalness, such as diagrammaticity, morphosemantic transparency and transparency of encoding. It is amply demonstrated that the language of children is far more regular than the language of adults due to its tendency to avoid alternation, which goes in line with previous research into the nature of the acquisition of Polish (see e.g. Smoczyńska 1985 ).