bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear acoustics for fatigue crack detection – experimental investigations of vibro-acoustic wave modulations
Authors: Klepka A , Staszewski WJ , Jenal RB , Szwedo M , Iwaniec J , Uhl T
Published: July 2011

Vibro-acoustic nonlinear wave modulations are investigated experimentally in a cracked aluminum plate. The focus is on the effect of low-frequency vibration excitation on modulation intensity and associated nonlinear wave interaction mechanisms. The study reveals that energy dissipation – not opening–closing crack action – is the major mechanism behind nonlinear modulations. The consequence is that relatively weak strain fields can be used for crack detection in metallic structures. A clear link between modulations and thermo-elastic coupling is also demonstrated, providing experimental evidence for the recently proposed non-classical, nonlinear vibro-acoustic wave interaction mechanism.
Toward Pragmatic Criteria for Evaluating HRD Research
Authors: Jayanti Elizabeth Bechtel
Published: July 2011

Although well-established criteria exist for evaluating the quality of research conducted using the Positivistic lens, and some criteria exist for judging research conducted using the Postmodernist lens, few criteria exist for judging research conducted using the Pragmatic lens. This is significant as mixed methods, complexity, and systems dynamics research belong to this lens, and a lack of criteria for judging quality may alternately contribute to either a shortage of Pragmatic research or a plethora of lower quality, uncritically evaluated Pragmatic research. The purpose of this article is to propose a theory-building process for Pragmatic research and to explore some possible criteria for evaluating the quality of Pragmatic research.
Promoting or Perturbing Success
Authors: Gross Jacob P. K.
Published: July 2011

Using event history modeling, this study explored to what extent loans, grants, institutional aid, and work-study affect timing to first departure for Latino college students. The goal is to understand more about how aid promotes or perturbs success for Latino students as well as how those effects vary over time. Federal grants and targeted loans reduced likelihood of departure (attrition). Findings suggest that aid is a necessary but not sufficient condition for success.
Authorship Policies for the Conduct of Graduate Research in Puerto Rico
Authors: Mulero-Portela Ana L. , Colón-Santaella Carmen L. , Bonet-Rivera Ivette
Published: July 2011

Authorship credit is one of the areas addressed by research integrity. Policies established by graduate academic programs and academic institutions in Puerto Rico are analyzed by describing authorship principles included. Twenty-six percent of the policies specify that students are authors of their research work. Four percent of the policies mention activities that do not qualify a person for author, and only 7% include a statement regarding the process to address authorship disagreement. Implications for institutional policy are discussed.
Downwards inference: Bayesian analysis of overlapping higher-level data sets of complex binary-state on-demand systems
Authors: Jackson C , Mosleh A
Published: July 2011

A developed Bayesian approach for generating inference from multiple overlapping higher level data sets on component failure probabilities within complex on-demand systems is presented in this paper. Data sets are overlapping if they are drawn from the same process or system at the same time. Alternate methodologies are typically strictly limited to analyzing non-overlapping data, which can both lose or incorrectly infer information if the data is overlapping in nature. The methodology outlined in this paper is based on typical understanding of system logic represented using fault-trees, reliability block diagrams or another equivalent representation. Structure functions of the system at relevant sensor locations (developed from the system logic) in terms of component states are used in conjunction with the probability of all possible system states (or all possible state vectors) to generate the likelihood function of overlapping evidence. This forms the basis of the likelihood function used in the Bayesian analysis of the overlapping data sets.
Therapeutic options in cutaneous melanoma: latest developments
Authors: Amaria Rodabe N. , Lewis Karl D. , Gonzalez Rene
Published: July 2011

Melanoma is a malignancy that is highly curable in the early stages but has devastating consequences in later stages due to lack of response to traditional treatments. Improved understanding of the basic science of tumorigenesis has helped lead to novel targeted therapies which are producing beneficial results in patients with melanoma. Enhancement of the immune system by blockade of the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated antigen-4 by the monoclonal antibody ipilimumab is now approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in patients with unresectable melanoma. The approval of this drug was based on the first ever data in melanoma showing an improvement in overall survival. New advances in targeting components of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway are showing impressive responses in clinical trials in most patients harboring activating mutations in BRAF. Thus, this is a new era in the management of melanoma and we review the recent progress made in treating patients with advanced disease.
A survey of green plant tRNA 3'-end processing enzyme tRNase Zs, homologs of the candidate prostate cancer susceptibility protein ELAC2
Authors: Fan Lijuan , Wang Zhikang , Liu Jinyu , Guo Weili , Yan Jie , Huang Ying
Published: July 2011

Background

tRNase Z removes the 3'-trailer sequences from precursor tRNAs, which is an essential step preceding the addition of the CCA sequence. tRNase Z exists in the short (tRNase ZS) and long (tRNase ZL) forms. Based on the sequence characteristics, they can be divided into two major types: bacterial-type tRNase ZSand eukaryotic-type tRNase ZL, and one minor type,Thermotoga maritima(TM)-type tRNase ZS. The number of tRNase Zs is highly variable, with the largest number being identified experimentally in the flowering plantArabidopsis thaliana. It is unknown whether multiple tRNase Zs found inA. thalianais common to the plant kingdom. Also unknown is the extent of sequence and structural conservation among tRNase Zs from the plant kingdom.

Results

We report the identification and analysis of candidate tRNase Zs in 27 fully sequenced genomes of green plants, the great majority of which are flowering plants. It appears that green plants contain multiple distinct tRNase Zs predicted to reside in different subcellular compartments. Furthermore, while the bacterial-type tRNase ZSs are present only in basal land plants and green algae, the TM-type tRNase ZSs are widespread in green plants. The protein sequences of the TM-type tRNase ZSs identified in green plants are similar to those of the bacterial-type tRNase ZSs but have distinct features, including the TM-type flexible arm, the variant catalytic HEAT and HST motifs, and a lack of the PxKxRN motif involved in CCA anti-determination (inhibition of tRNase Z activity by CCA), which prevents tRNase Z cleavage of mature tRNAs. Examination of flowering plant chloroplast tRNA genes reveals that many of these genes encode partial CCA sequences. Based on our results and previous studies, we predict that the plant TM-type tRNase ZSs may not recognize the CCA sequence as an anti-determinant.

Conclusions

Our findings substantially expand the current repertoire of the TM-type tRNase ZSs and hint at the possibility that these proteins may have been selected for their ability to process chloroplast pre-tRNAs with whole or partial CCA sequences. Our results also support the coevolution of tRNase Zs and tRNA 3'-trailer sequences in plants.
Open versus laparoscopically-assisted oesophagectomy for cancer: a multicentre randomised controlled phase III trial - the MIRO trial
Authors: Briez Nicolas , Piessen Guillaume , Bonnetain Franck , Brigand Cécile , Carrere Nicolas , Collet Denis , Doddoli Christophe , Flamein Renaud , Mabrut Jean-Yves , Meunier Bernard , Msika Simon , Perniceni Thierry , Peschaud Frédérique , Prudhomme Michel , Triboulet Jean-Pierre , Mariette Christophe
Published: July 2011

Background

Open transthoracic oesophagectomy is the standard treatment for infracarinal resectable oesophageal carcinomas, although it is associated with high mortality and morbidity rates of 2 to 10% and 30 to 50%, respectively, for both the abdominal and thoracic approaches. The worldwide popularity of laparoscopic techniques is based on promising results, including lower postoperative morbidity rates, which are related to the reduced postoperative trauma. We hypothesise that the laparoscopic abdominal approach (laparoscopic gastric mobilisation) in oesophageal cancer surgery will decrease the major postoperative complication rate due to the reduced surgical trauma.

Methods/Design

The MIRO trial is an open, controlled, prospective, randomised multicentre phase III trial. Patients in study arm A will receive laparoscopic-assisted oesophagectomy, i.e., a transthoracic oesophagectomy with two-field lymphadenectomy and laparoscopic gastric mobilisation. Patients in study arm B will receive the same procedure, but with the conventional open abdominal approach. The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the major postoperative 30-day morbidity. Secondary objectives are to assess the overall 30-day morbidity, 30-day mortality, 30-day pulmonary morbidity, disease-free survival, overall survival as well as quality of life and to perform medico-economic analysis. A total of 200 patients will be enrolled, and two safety analyses will be performed using 25 and 50 patients included in arm A.

Discussion

Postoperative morbidity remains high after oesophageal cancer surgery, especially due to major pulmonary complications, which are responsible for 50% of the postoperative deaths. This study represents the first randomised controlled phase III trial to evaluate the benefits of the minimally invasive approach with respect to the postoperative course and oncological outcomes in oesophageal cancer surgery.

Trial Registration

NCT00937456 (ClinicalTrials.gov)
High yield expression in a recombinant E. coli of a codon optimized chicken anemia virus capsid protein VP1 useful for vaccine development
Authors: Lee Meng-Shiou , Hseu You-Cheng , Lai Guan-Hua , Chang Wen-Te , Chen Hsi-Jien , Huang Chi-Hung , Lee Meng-Shiunn , Wang Min-Ying , Kao Jung-Yie , You Bang-Jau , Lin Wen- Hsin , Lien Yi-Yang , Lin Ming-Kuem
Published: July 2011

Background

Chicken anemia virus (CAV), the causative agent chicken anemia, is the only member of the genus Gyrovirus of the Circoviridae family. CAV is an immune suppressive virus and causes anemia, lymph organ atrophy and immunodeficiency. The production and biochemical characterization of VP1 protein and its use in a subunit vaccine or as part of a diagnostic kit would be useful to CAV infection prevention.

Results

Significantly increased expression of the recombinant full-length VP1 capsid protein from chicken anemia virus was demonstrated using an E. coli expression system. The VP1 gene was cloned into various different expression vectors and then these were expressed in a number of different E. coli strains. The expression of CAV VP1 in E. coli was significantly increased when VP1 was fused with GST protein rather than a His-tag. By optimizing the various rare amino acid codons within the N-terminus of the VP1 protein, the expression level of the VP1 protein in E. coli BL21(DE3)-pLysS was further increased significantly. The highest protein expression level obtained was 17.5 g/L per liter of bacterial culture after induction with 0.1 mM IPTG for 2 h. After purification by GST affinity chromatography, the purified full-length VP1 protein produced in this way was demonstrated to have good antigenicity and was able to be recognized by CAV-positive chicken serum in an ELISA assay.

Conclusions

Purified recombinant VP1 protein with the gene's codons optimized in the N-terminal region has potential as chimeric protein that, when expressed in E. coli, may be useful in the future for the development of subunit vaccines and diagnostic tests.
The added value of ordinal analysis in clinical trials: an example in traumatic brain injury
Authors: Roozenbeek Bob , Lingsma Hester F , Perel Pablo , Edwards Phil , Roberts Ian , Murray Gordon D , Maas Andrew IR , Steyerberg Ewout W ,   the IMPACT (International Mission on Prognosis and Clinical Trial Design in Traumatic Brain Injury) Study Group and the CRASH (Corticosteroid Randomisation After Significant Head Injury) Trial Collaborators
Published: July 2011

Introduction

In clinical trials, ordinal outcome measures are often dichotomized into two categories. In traumatic brain injury (TBI) the 5-point Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) is collapsed into unfavourable versus favourable outcome. Simulation studies have shown that exploiting the ordinal nature of the GOS increases chances of detecting treatment effects. The objective of this study is to quantify the benefits of ordinal analysis in the real-life situation of a large TBI trial.

Methods

We used data from the CRASH trial that investigated the efficacy of corticosteroids in TBI patients (n = 9,554). We applied two techniques for ordinal analysis: proportional odds analysis and the sliding dichotomy approach, where the GOS is dichotomized at different cut-offs according to baseline prognostic risk. These approaches were compared to dichotomous analysis. The information density in each analysis was indicated by a Wald statistic. All analyses were adjusted for baseline characteristics.

Results

Dichotomous analysis of the six-month GOS showed a non-significant treatment effect (OR = 1.09, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.21, P = 0.096). Ordinal analysis with proportional odds regression or sliding dichotomy showed highly statistically significant treatment effects (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.25, P = 0.0007 and 1.19, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.30, P = 0.0002), with 2.05-fold and 2.56-fold higher information density compared to the dichotomous approach respectively.

Conclusions

Analysis of the CRASH trial data confirmed that ordinal analysis of outcome substantially increases statistical power. We expect these results to hold for other fields of critical care medicine that use ordinal outcome measures and recommend that future trials adopt ordinal analyses. This will permit detection of smaller treatment effects.
A comparative study of two methods for identifying the solidliquid interface in a cold storage system
Authors: Fazeli H , Mirzaei M
Published: July 2011

In this article, shape identification in inverse heat conduction problems is applied to estimate the solidliquid interface in a cold storage system. The inverse algorithm consists of direct, inverse analysis, and gradient-based optimization method that iteratively estimates the unknown shape. The direct analysis used the finite-element method in the unstructured grid system to solve the direct heat conduction problem. The inverse analysis is based on recording temperature data on the outer surface of the storage capsule that calculates the objective function with calculated and measurement temperatures. The employed gradient-based optimization method is constructed using the adjoint and sensitivity equations that are used to calculate the gradient of the objective function and the optimal step size, respectively. Both the control point method (CPM) and proposed method (shape variables method) are used to estimate the unknown shape and to compare themselves. The effects of the number of sensors, grid sizes, shape scales, initial shapes, and noisy temperature data on the solution are investigated. The results show that the proposed method is more efficient in the prediction of the solidliquid interface in comparison with CPM.
Frequent detection of stomach contents in accidental drowning
Authors: Kibayashi Kazuhiko , Shimada Ryo , Nakao Ken-ichiro
Published: July 2011

We analysed forensic autopsies of 536 consecutive adults to determine the relationship between the presence of stomach contents and the manner of death. Stomach contents were identified in 27 (79.4%) of 34 accidental drownings and in 22 (43.1%) of 51 suicidal drownings ( P < 0.01). Accidental drowning was the manner of death most frequently associated with the presence of stomach contents, and stomach contents were found significantly more often in this type of death than in suicidal drowning. These findings indicate that food intake is a factor possibly related to accidental drowning and suggest that fasting may be required before swimming or taking a bath to prevent accidental drowning.
My patient has no blood pressure: introducing the FAST scan
Authors: Sloan J , Jarman R D
Published: July 2011

The origins and technique of the focused assessment with sonography (FAST) scan are explained in this article. Understanding where this technique fits in with clinical practice is discussed.
Structural basis for the dual U4 and U4atac snRNA-binding specificity of spliceosomal protein hPrp31
Authors: Liu Sunbin , Ghalei Homa , Lührmann Reinhard , Wahl Markus C.
Published: July 2011

Human proteins 15.5K and hPrp31 are components of the major spliceosomal U4 snRNP and of the minor spliceosomal U4atac snRNP. The two proteins bind to related 5′-stem loops (5′SLs) of the U4 and U4atac snRNAs in a strictly sequential fashion. The primary binding 15.5K protein binds at K-turns that exhibit identical sequences in the two snRNAs. However, RNA sequences contacted by the secondary binding hPrp31 differ in U4 and U4atac snRNAs, and the mechanism by which hPrp31 achieves its dual specificity is presently unknown. We show by crystal structure analysis that the capping pentaloops of the U4 and U4atac 5′SLs adopt different structures in the ternary hPrp31–15.5K–snRNA complexes. In U4atac snRNA, a noncanonical base pair forms across the pentaloop, based on which the RNA establishes more intimate interactions with hPrp31 compared with U4 snRNA. Stacking of hPrp31–His270 on the noncanonical base pair at the base of the U4atac pentaloop recapitulates intramolecular stabilizing principles known from the UUCG and GNRA families of RNA tetraloops. Rational mutagenesis corroborated the importance of the noncanonical base pair and the U4atac-specific hPrp31–RNA interactions for complex stability. The more extensive hPrp31–U4atac snRNA interactions are in line with a higher stability of the U4atac compared with the U4-based ternary complex seen in gel-shift assays, which may explain how U4atac snRNA can compete with the more abundant U4 snRNA for the same protein partners in vivo.
The intron of tRNA-TrpCCA is dispensable for growth and translation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Mori Shunsuke , Kajita Takuya , Endo Toshiya , Yoshihisa Tohru
Published: July 2011

A part of eukaryotic tRNA genes harbor an intron at one nucleotide 3′ to the anticodon, so that removal of the intron is an essential processing step for tRNA maturation. While some tRNA introns have important roles in modification of certain nucleotides, essentiality of the tRNA intron in eukaryotes has not been tested extensively. This is partly because most of the eukaryotic genomes have multiple genes encoding an isoacceptor tRNA. Here, we examined whether the intron of tRNA-TrpCCA genes, six copies of which are scattered on the genome of yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is essential for growth or translation of the yeast in vivo. We devised a procedure to remove all of the tRNA introns from the yeast genome iteratively with marker cassettes containing both positive and negative markers. Using this procedure, we removed all the introns from the six tRNA-TrpCCA genes, and found that the intronless strain grew normally and expressed tRNA-TrpCCA in an amount similar to that of the wild-type genes. Neither incorporation of 35S-labeled amino acids into a TCA-insoluble fraction nor the major protein pattern on SDS-PAGE/2D gel were affected by complete removal of the intron, while expression levels of some proteins were marginally affected. Therefore, the tRNA-TrpCCA intron is dispensable for growth and bulk translation of the yeast. This raises the possibility that some mechanism other than selective pressure from translational efficiency maintains the tRNA intron on the yeast genome.
Reported Prevalence by Australian Special Educators of Evidence-Based Instructional Practices
Authors: Carter Mark , Stephenson Jennifer , Strnadová Iva
Published: July 2011

This research examined the reported level of implementation of eight practices in a national sample of Australian special education teachers, replicating the North American study of Burns and Ysseldyke (2009). The 194 respondents reported extensive use of a number of evidence-based practices, such as direct instruction and applied behaviour analysis. Conversely, a number of practices that have very weak empirical foundations or can be considered disproven, such as perceptual-motor training and modality instruction, continue to be used at moderate-to-high levels. In addition, compared to their North American counterparts, Australian special education teachers used a number of evidence-based practices significantly less frequently and used perceptual-motor programs more frequently. Implications of these results are discussed.
The Ets Transcription Factor ELF5 Functions as a Tumor Suppressor in the Kidney
Authors: Lapinskas Erika J. , Svobodova Suzanne , Davis Ian D. , Cebon Jonathan , Hertzog Paul J. , Pritchard Melanie A.
Published: July 2011

Renal cell carcinoma is an important clinical disease with poorly understood etiology. ELF5 is an epithelial-specific member of the Ets family of transcription factors, characterized by the 80 amino acid Ets domain that binds the purine-rich GGAA/T Ets motif found in the promoter regions of a variety of genes. Since ELF5 is highly expressed in kidney and has been postulated to function as a tumor suppressor, at least in the context of the breast, we investigated its role in kidney cancer. In renal cell carcinoma ELF5 expression was consistently decreased in tumor samples versus normal. ELF5 mRNA was decreased in 94% of lesions tested and ELF5 protein was undetectable in 40/40 kidney-derived carcinomas. Re-expression of the ELF5 gene in 786-O renal carcinoma cells suppressed their tumorigenic capacity in vitro and in vivo. This work is the first to suggest that ELF5 has tumor suppressor activity in the kidney.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Propranolol for Infantile Hemangiomas
Authors: Hogeling Marcia , Adams Susan , Wargon Orli
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVE:

Propranolol hydrochloride is a safe and effective medication for treating infantile hemangiomas (IHs), with decreases in IH volume, color, and elevation.

METHODS:

Forty children between the ages of 9 weeks and 5 years with facial IHs or IHs in sites with the potential for disfigurement were randomly assigned to receive propranolol or placebo oral solution 2 mg/kg per day divided 3 times daily for 6 months. Baseline electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and laboratory evaluations were performed. Monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose was performed at each visit. Children younger than 6 months were admitted to the hospital for monitoring after their first dose at weeks 1 and 2. Efficacy was assessed by performing blinded volume measurements at weeks 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 and blinded investigator scoring of photographs at weeks 0, 12, and 24.

RESULTS:

IH growth stopped by week 4 in the propranolol group. Significant differences in the percent change in volume were seen between groups, with the largest difference at week 12. Significant decrease in IH redness and elevation occurred in the propranolol group at weeks 12 and 24 (P = .01 and .001, respectively). No significant hypoglycemia, hypotension, or bradycardia occurred. One child discontinued the study because of an upper respiratory tract infection. Other adverse events included bronchiolitis, gastroenteritis, streptococcal infection, cool extremities, dental caries, and sleep disturbance.

CONCLUSION:

Propranolol hydrochloride administered orally at 2 mg/kg per day reduced the volume, color, and elevation of focal and segmental IH in infants younger than 6 months and children up to 5 years of age.
School Outcomes of Children With Special Health Care Needs
Authors: Forrest Christopher B. , Bevans Katherine B. , Riley Anne W. , Crespo Richard , Louis Thomas A.
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To examine the associations between having a special health care need and school outcomes measured as attendance, student engagement, behavioral threats to achievement, and academic achievement.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS:

A total of 1457 children in the fourth through sixth grades from 34 schools in 3 school districts and their parents provided survey data; parents completed the Children With Special Health Care Needs Screener. School records were abstracted for attendance, grades, and standardized achievement test scores.

RESULTS:

Across 34 schools, 33% of children screened positive for special health care needs. After adjusting for sociodemographic and school effects, children with special health care needs had lower motivation to do well in school, more disruptive behaviors, and more frequent experiences as a bully victim. They experienced significantly lower academic achievement, as measured by grades, standardized testing, and parental-assessed academic performance. These findings were observed for children who qualified as having a special health care need because they had functional limitations attributed to a chronic illness or a behavioral health problem but not for those who qualified only because they took prescription medications.

CONCLUSIONS:

Specific subgroups of children with special health care needs are at increased risk for poor school outcomes. Health and school professionals will need to collaborate to identify these children early, intervene with appropriate medical and educational services, and monitor long-term outcomes.
Consent for Emergency Medical Services for Children and Adolescents
Authors: Sirbaugh Paul E. , Diekema Douglas S. ,   Committee on Pediatric Emergency Medicine and Committee on Bioethics
Published: July 2011

Parental consent generally is required for the medical evaluation and treatment of minor children. However, children and adolescents might require evaluation of and treatment for emergency medical conditions in situations in which a parent or legal guardian is not available to provide consent or conditions under which an adolescent patient might possess the legal authority to provide consent. In general, a medical screening examination and any medical care necessary and likely to prevent imminent and significant harm to the pediatric patient with an emergency medical condition should not be withheld or delayed because of problems obtaining consent. The purpose of this policy statement is to provide guidance in those situations in which parental consent is not readily available, in which parental consent is not necessary, or in which parental refusal of consent places a child at risk of significant harm.
Doped zirconia and ceria-based electrolytes for solid oxide fuel cells: a review
Authors: Mahato Neelima , Gupta Alka , Balani Kantesh
Published: July 2011

Zirconia and ceria possess fluorite-type structure and conduct electricity by means of oxide ion transport through the lattice. On doping, vacancies created at the oxygen site make way for the neighbouring oxygen atoms to ‘hop’ in the direction of electric field. Among doped zirconia, 8 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia and 9–11 mol% scandia-stabilized zirconia exhibit the highest conductivity. Ceria electrolytes require lower operational temperature (~600–800°C) compared to that of zirconia electrolytes (800–1000°C). With improvement in the processing and fabrication techniques, researchers have developed thinner electrolytes to minimize ohmic polarization and enhance the ionic conductivity enabling operation at lower temperatures (~400–600°C). But such electrolytes are required to be supported on electrodes (anode or cathode) and in later times heterostructured bi-, tri- and multi-layered electrolyte films have been constructed. Since the last decade, development of submicron grain size electrolytes and ultimately two-phase materials with nanodimension grain size has shown improvement in ionic conductivity as well as low-temperature workability. The article reviews the turning points in the technological development of fluorite-based solid oxide fuel cell electrolytes from single-phase micrometer dimension grain size to recently developed two-phase nanocomposites and nanowires, and the successful achievement of its workability at low temperatures (~450°C).
Prediction and Validation of Carbon Dioxide Gas Solubility in Ionic Liquids at T=298K and Atmospheric Pressure using Quantum Chemical Approach
Authors: Ramalingam Anantharaj , Banerjee Tamal
Published: July 2011

Carbon dioxide (CO2) gas solubilities are predicted via quantum chemical calculations, which only requires molecular structure as initial information. The quantum chemical based Conductor like Screening Model for Real Solvents (COSMO-RS) has been adopted for this purpose. Predictions of gas solubility at temperatures ranging from (283.15 to 323.15 K) at 0.1 MPa were done for the IL:[EMIM][TFI]. The relative absolute deviation of around 30% shows that the quality of predictions is highly dependent on the infinite dilution activity coefficient of CO2 in [EMIM][TFI].Additionally thermodynamic parameters such as Gibb’s Energy of solvation, enthalpies and entropies have also been predicted and compared for the IL:[BMIM][BF4]. In addition, the carbon dioxide solubility in 16 ionic liquids comprising of imidazolium and pyridinium based cations was validated with reported values. The Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD) obtained was: 3.09% [TFI], 6.5% [TFO] and 12% [PF6], respectively. Finally, the Henry’s constants of CO2 in 286 ionic liquids comprising of newer cations such as pyrrolidinium, piperidinium and morpholium were predicted at T=298.15 K. The saturated aromatic ring structure of pyrrolidinium, morpholinium and piperidinium based ionic liquids possessed low Henry’s constant values which indicates high solubility of CO2 in ionic liquids.
Role of the Calcium-Sensing Receptor in Reducing the Risk for Calcium Stones
Authors: Renkema Kirsten Y. , Bindels René J.M. , Hoenderop Joost G.J.
Published: July 2011

The tight control of blood Ca2+ levels within a narrow range is essential for the performance of vital physiologic functions. Muscle contraction, neuronal excitation, and intracellular signaling processes acquisitively require Ca2+. It is the concerted action of intestine, bone, and kidney that controls the Ca2+ balance through the regulation of intestinal absorption, bone (de)mineralization, and renal excretion of Ca2+, respectively. Along the nephron, fine-tuning of blood Ca2+ levels takes place by Ca2+ reabsorption. The calciotropic hormones regulate Ca2+ transport processes, leading to whole-body Ca2+ homeostasis and, importantly, preserving a constant Ca2+ concentration in the blood. Defects in renal Ca2+ handling can lead to hypercalciuria, consecutive kidney stone formation, and obstructive nephropathy. Here we give an overview of the key players involved in normal Ca2+ management and describe the in-depth investigations on a renal hypercalciuric model of disease, the Trpv5 knockout mouse, which naturally displays molecular adaptations that prevent Ca2+ precipitation in the kidney.
Association of Hemoglobin and Survival in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Molnar Miklos Z. , Mehrotra Rajnish , Duong Uyen , Kovesdy Csaba P. , Kalantar-Zadeh Kamyar
Published: July 2011

Background and objectives

Interventional trials and some observational studies show target hemoglobin >13 g/dl to be associated with higher mortality in erythropoiesis-stimulating agent–treated (ESA-treated) hemodialysis patients; data for peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients are limited.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We tested our hypothesis that higher and lower achieved hemoglobin levels are associated with increased mortality in 9269 ESA-treated PD patients from all DaVita dialysis clinics during the time period July 2001 through June 2006 followed through June 2007 using a time-dependent analysis.

Results

Lower hemoglobin was associated with significantly higher all-cause mortality in ESA-treated PD patients: with hemoglobin of 11.0 to <12.0 g/dl as reference, the time-dependent adjusted death hazard ratios for hemoglobin levels of 10.0 to <11.0, 9.0 to <10.0, and ≤9.0 g/dl were 1.12 (1.00 to 1.24), 1.30 (1.12 to 1.50), and 1.38 (1.14 to 1.67), respectively. The time-dependent adjusted hazard ratios for cardiovascular death with hemoglobin levels of 10.0 to <11.0, 9.0 to <10.0, and ≤9.0 g/dl were 1.11 (0.93 to 1.32), 1.37 (1.09 to 1.72), and 1.12 (0.79 to 1.57), respectively. The same trend for association of lower hemoglobin level with higher mortality was seen in African-American and non–African American men and women. In contrast, there was no association between higher achieved hemoglobin and all-cause or cardiovascular mortality in ESA-treated PD patients.

Conclusions

Lower, but not higher, achieved hemoglobin is associated with higher mortality in ESA-treated PD patients. Randomized controlled trials are needed to examine the target hemoglobin level with lowest mortality in PD patients.
Incompatible Live-Donor Kidney Transplantation in the United States
Authors: Garonzik Wang Jacqueline M. , Montgomery Robert A. , Kucirka Lauren M. , Berger Jonathan C. , Warren Daniel S. , Segev Dorry L.
Published: July 2011

Background and objectives

Use of incompatible kidney transplantation (IKT) is growing as a response to the organ shortage and the increase in sensitization among candidates. However, recent regulatory mandates possibly threaten IKT, and the potential effect of these mandates cannot be estimated because dissemination of this modality remains unknown. The goal of this study was to better understand practice patterns of IKT in the United States.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Directors from all 187 unique active adult kidney transplant programs were queried about transplantation across the following antibody barriers: positive Luminex, negative flow crossmatch (PLNF); positive flow, negative cytotoxic crossmatch (PFNC); positive cytotoxic crossmatch (PCC); and ABO incompatible (ABOi).

Results

Responses from 125 centers represented 84% of the live-donor transplant volume in the United States. Barriers of PLNF, PFNC, PCC, and ABOi are being crossed in 70%, 51%, 18%, and 24%, respectively, of transplant centers that responded. Desensitization was performed in 58% of PLNF, 76% of PFNC, 100% of PCC, and 80% of ABOi using plasmapheresis and low-dose intravenous Ig (IVIg) in 71% to 83% and high-dose IVIg in 29% to 46%.

Conclusions

A higher proportion of centers perform IKT than might be inferred from the literature. The rapid dissemination of these protocols despite adequate evidence of a clear advantage of IKT transplants argues for the creation of a national registry and randomized studies.
Systematic Shifts in Cystatin C Between 2006 and 2010
Authors: Maahs David M. , Jalal Diana , McFann Kim , Rewers Marian , Snell-Bergeon Janet K.
Published: July 2011

Background and objectives

Cystatin C is used increasingly as a biomarker of renal function; however, cystatin C assays are not standardized. Our objective was to compare cystatin C results within the Coronary Artery Calcification in Type 1 Diabetes (CACTI) study over time and in repeated measures to evaluate for assay drift.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Serum samples were obtained at baseline (visit 1 [V1], 2000 to 2002) and follow-up (visit 2 [V2], 2003 to 2005; visit 3 [V3], 2006 to 2008) and were assayed in 2006 (V1), 2007 to 2008 (V2), and 2010 (V3) in the same laboratory.

Results

Mean cystatin C levels measured using the Dade–Behring assay decreased over time in subjects, with measures at all three visits (V1: 0.80 ± 0.19 [0.42 to 3.41], V2: 0.75 ± 0.22 [0.39 to 3.77], and V3: 0.69 ± 0.22 [0.39 to 3.79]). Cystatin C values were lower in V1 and V2 samples remeasured in 2010 (mean differences −0.13 ± 0.04 and −0.08 ± 0.04, P < 0.0001 for both). Correlations for original and re-run values were strong for V1 (r = 0.99) and V2 (r = 0.99). Deming regression equations and Bland–Altman plots suggest a systematic shift in the values over time.

Conclusions

Systematic shifts in cystatin C levels, which can be corrected by regression adjustment, occurred in our laboratory in samples measured in 2006 and 2007 to 2008 as compared with 2010. Assay standardization and measurement reliability for cystatin C must be addressed.
Oxidative Stress and Galactose-Deficient IgA1 as Markers of Progression in IgA Nephropathy
Authors: Camilla Roberta , Suzuki Hitoshi , Daprà Valentina , Loiacono Elisa , Peruzzi Licia , Amore Alessandro , Ghiggeri Gian Marco , Mazzucco Gianna , Scolari Francesco , Gharavi Ali G. , Appel Gerald B. , Troyanov Stéphan , Novak Jan , Julian Bruce A. , Coppo Rosanna
Published: July 2011

Background and objectives

We assessed the activation of the oxidative stress pathway in patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN), while evaluating the classic marker of the disease (galactose-deficient serum IgA1).

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Sera from 292 patients and 69 healthy controls from Italy and the United States were assayed for advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), free sulfhydryl groups on albumin (SH-Alb), and IgA1 with galactose-deficient hinge-regionO-glycans (Gd-IgA1). Gd-IgA1 was detected by binding toHelix aspersaagglutinin (HAA) and expressed as total Gd-IgA1 or as degree of galactose deficiency relative to a standard Gd-IgA1 myeloma protein (%HAA).

Results

Sera from IgAN patients showed higher levels of Gd-IgA1, %HAA, and AOPPs, but lower levels of SH-Alb in comparison to that from healthy controls. Serum levels of AOPPs significantly correlated with serum Gd-IgA1 and %HAA. The relationship between these biomarkers and clinical features at sampling and during follow-up was assessed in 62 patients with long-term follow-up. AOPPs and %HAA correlated with proteinuria at sampling and independently associated with subsequent proteinuria. Levels of AOPPs correlated with rate of decline in renal function after sampling. The combination of a high level of AOPPs and a high level of %HAA associated with decline in estimated GFR.

Conclusions

Serum levels of aberrantly glycosylated IgA1 are elevated and oxidative stress pathways are activated in patients with IgAN; the intensity of the stress correlated with expression and progression of the disease. We speculate that oxidative stress may modulate the nephrotoxicity of aberrantly glycosylated IgA1 in IgAN.
Institutional forms of contemporary ecumenical dialogue
Authors: Nikolic Marko , Petkovic Petar
Published: July 2011

The article deals with ecumenism and the most important examples of its
?institutionalisation?. It is stated that ecumenism implies the doctrine
(idea), universal inter-church movement and the proclaimed goal of achieving
Christian unity. It possesses at least theological, sociological and
political determinants. The World Council of Churches is a universal
inter-church forum for dialogue and cooperation that lacks clear
ecclesiological identity. However, it is getting the characteristics of a
typical international political movement. The Conference of European Churches
is a similar European organization. The Parliament of World Religions tends
to found and promote ?global ethics? in order to accomplish pacifistic goals
in the world.
Investigation of 6-fluoroquinolones activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis using theoretical molecular descriptors: a case study
Authors: Minovski Nikola , Jezierska-Mazzarello Aneta , Vračko Marjan , Šolmajer Tom
Published: July 2011

A quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) study on a set of 66 structurally-similar 6-fluoroquinolones was performed using a large pool of theoretical molecular descriptors. Ab initio geometry optimizations were carried out to reproduce the geometrical and electronic structure parameters. The resulting molecular structures were confirmed to be minima via harmonic frequency calculations. Obtained atomic charges, HOMO and LUMO energies, orbital electron densities, dipole moment, energy and many other properties served as quantum-chemical descriptors. A multiple linear regression (MLR) technique was applied to generate a linear model for predicting the biological activity, Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), treated as negative decade logarithm, (pMIC). The heuristic method was used to optimize the model parameters and select the most significant descriptors. The model was tested internally using the CV LOO procedure on the training set and validated against the external validation set. The result (Q 2 ext = 0.7393), which was obtained on an external, previously excluded validation data set, shows the predictive performances of this model (R 2tr = 0.7416, Q 2 tr = 0.6613) in establishing (Q)SAR of 6-fluoroquinolones. This validated model could be proficiently used to design new 6-fluoroquinolones with possible higher activity.
Remazol Black B removal from aqueous solutions and wastewater using weakly basic anion exchange resins
Authors: Wawrzkiewicz Monika , Hubicki Zbigniew
Published: July 2011

In this study, the use of the weakly basic anion exchange resins of phenol-formaldehyde (Amberlyst A 23), polyacrylate (Amberlite IRA 67) and polystyrene (Lewatit MonoPlus MP 62) matrices for removal of the reactive dye Remazol Black B (RBB) from aqueous solution and wastewater were investigated. RBB sorption on the anion exchangers was a time dependent process. Color reduction percentiles of 75.2, 33.9 and 25.1% in wastewater treatment were found after 216 h of phase contact time with Lewatit MonoPlus MP 62, Amberlyst A 23 and Amberlite IRA 67, respectively. Inorganic salts and anionic surfactant action influenced RBB uptake by the anion exchangers. The amounts of dye retained by the anion exchangers increased with a rise in temperature. The maximum sorption capacities calculated from the Langmuir model were 66.4, 282.1 and 796.1 mg g−1 for Amberlite IRA 67, Amberlyst A 23 and Lewatit MonoPlus MP 62, respectively. Regeneration of phenol-formaldehyde and polystyrene resins were possible using 1 M NaOH, 2 M KSCN, 1M KSCN in 40–60% methanol as well as 1 M NaOH in 60% methanol.
Success Factors of Small and Medium-Sized International Enterprises in the Chinese Market from the Perspective of Polish Direct Investment (Cultural Approach)
Authors: Iwińska-Knop Krystyna , Linka Jarosław
Published: July 2011

Globalization has resulted in increasing transfer of firms operations, regardless of their size, to other countries. The recent dynamic emergence of China in the global economy, connecting with the vast inflows of foreign direct investment in their territory and common adjustments problems of many Western companies, has resulted in growing interest for best suitable business practices to this culturally and socially different environment. In this article, the key factors critical to the success of international companies in this region are introduced, with particular consideration to indigenous cultural elements and specific operation requirements of small and medium-sized enterprises in Business-to-Business sectors. The presented information are based on the broad literature review, five years of direct observation and thirty eight interviews conducted with Polish managers directly residing in China. In addition, some practical recommendations for managers and further research are given.
National Urban Wastewater Treatment Program: Assessment of Task Implementation
Authors: Lipińska Danuta
Published: July 2011

This paper presents an assessment of the state of advancement of work on tasks encompassed by the National Urban Wastewater Treatment Program that are vital in meeting the transitional goals as defined in the Poland's Treaty of Accession to the European Union in the section relating to Council Directive 91/271/EEC concerning urban wastewater treatment. Reasons behind delays in completing planned projects with respect to deadlines earmarked in the National Urban Wastewater Treatment Program are discussed, as are the consequences of the delays. Environmental effects in the area of biodegradable pollutants as achieved in 2009 in terms of individual voivodeships and the country as a whole have also been calculated.
A Facile Synthesis of Highly Functionalized 4-Arylcoumarins via Kostanecki Reactions Mediated by DBU
Authors: Hwang In-Taek , Lee Sun-Ah , Hwang Jin-Soo , Lee Kee-In
Published: July 2011

An efficient synthesis of 4-arylcoumarins has been accomplished via Kostanecki reactions of 2-hydroxybenzophenones with acetic anhydride employing DBU at ambient temperature. Using the same strategy, several 2-acyloxybenzophenone derivatives were readily converted to 3,4-difunctionalized coumarins. This protocol offers a notable improvement in reaction conditions for coumarin synthesis and takes advantage of its synthetic capability, especially for highly functionalized 4-arylcoumarins with structural diversity.
La place de la légion III Augusta dans la carrière des sénateurs affectés dans les provinces romaines d'Asie mineure au Haut-Empire
Authors: Remy Bernard
Published: July 2011

Service in Africa was not taken into account in the standard career profile of the senators appointed in Anatolia, although it was quite very varied. Out of the fifty-five young senators who did their military service, only two were tribunes of legio III Augusta : P. Cassius Dexter Augustanus Alpinus Bellicius Sollers Metilius [ — ]us Rutilianus who later obtained the governorship of the imperial province of Cilicy (ca 149-151) and an Anonymous who administered three praetorian provinces of Anatolia : Pontus-Bithynia (ca 156-158), Galatia (ca 165-167) and Cilicia (ca 167-169). Once they had reached praetorian rank these clarissimi very seldom went to the provinces "in arms" where they occupied only sixteen posts out of the one hundred and eight praetorian legations recorded. Only A. Iulius Pompilius Piso T. Vibfius — ] Laevillus [ — ]atus Berenicianus ca 176-178 and L. Iulius Apronius Maenius Pius Salamallianus, ca 225-227, had joint responsibility for the legateship of legio III Augusta and for the administration of the province of Numidia.
Quelques incursions dans la zone occidentale du limes de Numidie
Authors: Salama Pierre
Published: July 2011

The research bears on three points :

1°) A roman fortress in building stones (at present destroyed) at Sidi Khaled (69 km South-West of Gemellae), that is to say on the most western point of the area studied by J. Baradez (Fossatum Africae) .

2°) A small fort built on the site of Medjdel (Gsell, AAA, XXXV, between 207 and 208), where formerly was found a fragment of inscription of a cohort bearing the date 149 a.d., under the emperor Antoninus Pius. But the sketch of this fort relates to typology of military stonework which is not anterior to the second half of the third century. It is therefore obvious that the fort of Antoninus Pius was rearranged after wards, or that the very site of Medjdel neekney several military constructions scattered over the times.

3°) A camp, sincer long known, but never described nor measured at Hamman Charef (Gsell, AAA, XL VI, 41). The general typology of this camp (related in Africa to those of Tocolosida, Sadouri, Gemellae, Ad Maiores, Remada,...), together with various fragments of epigraphy (one of them discovered 1970) alloys to suppose that it was also built under Antoninus Pius, in order to watch a traditional way of invasion, which, coming from the South-West, could trach the heart of Numidia.