bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction
Authors: Damaceanu Romulus-Catalin
Published: March 2011

In this chapter, we offer the essential information to our readers regarding the two major fields approached by
the book: Applied Computational Mathematics and Social Sciences. The first field emphasizes algorithms, numerical
methods, and symbolic methods. The development of this field created new scientific disciplines like: Computational
Biology, Computational Chemistry, Computational Economics, Computational Electrodynamics, Computational Finance,
Computational Fluid Dynamics, Computational Geophysics, Computational Mechanics, Computational Physics, and
Computational Statistics. On the other hand, Social Sciences comprise academic disciplines concerned with the study of
the social life of human groups and individuals, and are dealing with complex systems that imply an interdisciplinary
research approach, that combines knowledge from Computational Mathematics and Social Sciences. The problems
connected with Social Sciences can be solved by using agent-based modeling (ABM). This technique uses a computational
model for simulating the actions and interactions of autonomous individuals in a network, with a view to study the effects
on the system as a whole. In order to create and implement a multi-agent computational model, you need a software
platform. We are going to use NetLogo software platform. NetLogo uses three types of agents A: turtles Ti, patches Pxy
and observer O. The main construction blocks of any agent-based computational model are the next: the set of agents (A),
the initializations (I), and the simulation specifications (R).
Conclusions
Authors: Damaceanu Romulus-Catalin
Published: March 2011

In this chapter, we draw the conclusions regarding the evolution of Agent-based Artificial Society described in
Chapter 2, implemented in Chapter 3 using NetLogo, and used for a set of computational experiments in Chapter 4.
Essential Oils for Preserving Perishable Foods: Possibilities and Limitations
Authors: Speranza Barbara , Rosaria Corbo Maria
Published: March 2011

Since the middle ages, essential oils (EOs) have been widely used for bactericidal, virucidal,
fungicidal, antiparasitical, insecticidal, medicinal and cosmetic applications. Nowadays, it is well known that
EOs can enhance the shelf life of unprocessed or processed foods because of their antimicrobial nature.
Nevertheless, very few preservation methods based on EOs utilization are implemented until now by the food
industry.

The aims of this chapter are: 1) to make an overview of the current knowledge on the antibacterial activity of
EOs; 2) to describe their possible modes of action; 3) to evaluate possibilities and limitations of their use in
the food industry.

In vitro studies have demonstrated antibacterial activity of EOs against a wide range of spoilage and
pathogenic bacteria. As EOs comprise a large number of components, it is likely that their mode of action
involves several targets in the bacterial cell, but it is generally recognized that their hydrophobicity enables
them to partition in the lipids of the cell membrane and mitochondria, rendering these membranes permeable
and leading to leakage of cell contents. A higher concentration is generally needed to achieve the same effect
in foods, but studies with meat, fish, milk, dairy products, vegetables and fruits have shown promising results
at very low concentrations of EOs (<0.5%, v/w). Toxicological data do not appear to raise concern in view of
their current levels of use in foods.
Chitosan: a Polysaccharide with Antimicrobial Action
Authors: Campaniello Daniela , Rosaria Corbo Maria
Published: March 2011

At present, discards from the world’s fisheries exceed 20 million tons. Traditionally, fisheries
wastes are used in the production of fertilizers, fish silage or pet foods; nowadays with advances in
bioprocess engineering technologies and novel enzymatic and microbial hydrolysis methods, processing
wastes may serve as cheap raw materials for the generation of high-value bioactive compounds and novel
environmental and ecological material derived from marine wastes. In particular, shellfish waste is the main
source of biomass for chitin (and its derivatives) production. In this contest chitosan, thanks to its versatility,
has found numerous applications as antimicrobial agents, antioxidants, additives, enzyme immobilization and
use in the encapsulation of nutraceuticals. In addition, chitosan possesses a film-forming properties for use as
edible films or coating. Several researchers studied chitosan, its chemical and physical characteristics and its
applications. This chapter is an attempt to summarize these works focused on the following questions: what is
chitosan? How does it act against microorganisms and what is its impact on food properties?
Use of High Pressure Processing for Food Preservation
Authors: Bevilacqua Antonio , Campaniello Daniela , Sinigaglia Milena
Published: March 2011

High pressure processing has been proposed since the beginning of the 1900, as a suitable mean
for reducing food contamination by pathogens and spoiling microorganisms. It is defined as non-thermal
treatment that uses the pressure (300-700 MPa, in some cases up to 1000 MPa) as the main preservation
method.

Based on the different ways to achieve pressure increase, we can distinguish between High Hydrostatic
Pressure (HHP) and High Pressure Homogenization (HPH); HHP attains pressure rise through a fluid,
whereas in HPH treatments pressure increases as a consequence of forcing product through a small valve
(homogenizing valve).

Both these approaches have been proposed for different kinds of foods (HHP, for chopped onions, apple
sauce and apple sauce/fruit blends as eat-on-to-the-go single serve tubes; HPH, for milk and juices) and
currently used in many industrial applications.

The chapter proposes an exhaustive description of both these methods, including the mode of actions against
the microorganisms, the modifications on foodstuffs, a possible combination with some other hurdles and
some examples of industrial applications.

Finally, in the case of HHP there is a report on its safety and implications on health, based on some
publications of Public Agencies.
Microencapsulation as a New Approach to Protect Active Compounds in Food
Authors: Gallo Mariangela , Rosaria Corbo Maria
Published: March 2011

Microencapsulation has been defined as “the technology of packaging solid, liquid and gaseous
active ingredients in small capsules that release their contents at controlled rates over prolonged periods of
time”. The production of microcapsules began in 1950s, when Green and Schleicher produced microcapsules
dyes by complex coacervation of gelatine and gum Arabic, for the manufacture of carbonless copying paper.

In relation to their structure, the particles can be classified as: mononuclear, polynuclear and matrix type.
There are some methods for the microcapsules production; the choice of the microencapsulation method
relies both on the nature and characteristics of the polymeric material used and the properties of the active
ingredients. The main encapsulation techniques are: emulsion and interfacial polymerization, coacervation,
liposome, suspension crosslinking, spray drying, spray cooling, solvent evaporation or extraction.

Firstly proposed in the pharmaceutical industry, today this technique is popular in agriculture, food industry,
cosmetic and energy generation. In food industry microencapsulation is used for vitamins, flavors, enzymes
and probiotic microorganisms.
Elderly
Authors: Lobo Alexandrina
Published: March 2011

Aging of the population has been one of the many successes of mankind; however, it
is also one of the biggest growing challenges, in addition to its social, economic and political
consequences, World Health Organization (WHO), 2005 [1]. Furthermore, the aging of the
population increased since several decades in each country around the world. That’s why it
becomes a public health care. From a public health stand-point, it is very important to identify
and develop preventive strategies that may attenuate the gradual decline in functional ability
associated with the aging process. The elderly, that were more physically active revealed a
positive attitude towards life, were healthier and demonstrated a better capacity to face stress
and tension [2]. Regular participation in physical activity, easily increased the functional status
and maintained an adequate level of physical and cognitive functions [3].
Physical Activity Programs for Elders
Authors: Lobo Alexandrina
Published: March 2011

Basing our argument on the Current health-related physical activity (PA) guidelines,
elders are encouraged to accumulate minimum 60 minutes per day of moderate or vigorous PA
for a healthy life style [1]. American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) [2] and Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [3] recommend a target intensity of 50-85% of oxygen
uptake reserve [4], that range includes at least 30 min per day of moderate-intensity activity, in
bouts of at least 10 min each; or continuous activity for minimum 20 min 3 days per week [1].
Although, the United States Surgeon General recommends daily regular exercise, many elders
do not adhere to this recommendation, thus do not exercise [5, 6]. These observations with
regards to moderate PA, suggest that it is necessary that the elderly spend their leisure time
more actively. Current recommendations have recognized that a combination of aerobic
activity, strength training and flexibility exercises is important for maintaining physical
function in elders [7, 8]
Exercises Seated in the Ground
Authors: Lobo Alexandrina
Published: March 2011

Aim: Gentle mobilization of the column

i) Sitting on the buttocks, supporting the hands in the ground
behind the hips, semi inflected legs, take the knees of a side to
other. (Fig. 30)

ii) Hands supported near the hips. Inflect the tips of the feet and be
maintained in the same position; next, spread out and maintain.
Inspire while inflecting and expire slowly while spreading out.
(Fig. 31)....
Exercises in Four Supports
Authors: Lobo Alexandrina
Published: March 2011

Aim: To reinforce the musculature of the back, of the lumbar and dorsal muscles; to
correct problems of column; to improve the posture

i) The cat: in 4 supports, to mobilize the hips in gently
side to-and-fro. The back must remain straights, without
be bending, and the pelvis, loose and relaxed. (Fig. 33)....
Current State-of-the-art for Quantum Mechanics-based Methods in Drug Design
Authors: Anthony Taft Carlton , Henrique Tomich de Paula da Silva Carlos
Published: March 2011

We review the current state of the art for quantum mechanics-based methods in drug design and
selected applications to various diseases. We present a brief introduction and give current trends for each section.
We review bioisosterims and quantum chemical topology (shape, conformation, multipole moments, hydrogen
bonding, fingerprint, charge distributions), free energy simulations (equilibrium, non-equilibrium), Molecular
Interaction Fields (grids, hotspots, fingerprints), solvation (MD/MM-PBSA-GBSA, FEP/TI/LIE, COSMO,
PCM/DFT), docking (algorithms, scoring, new approaches), summary of quantum mechanics approximations
focusing on density functional methods (AM1, HF, Post-HF, MP, QM/MM), DFT(GGA, Meta-GGA, pure τ
functionals, DHDF, MO6, vW-D, Hybrids)) and weak interactions (hydrogen, van der Waals, carbohydratearomatic,
halogen, environmental electron densities). Using these models we present selected applications of our
work during the last decade in which we proposed novel inhibitors for Cancer, Aids, Alzheimer, Parkinson and
other diseases.
The Role of Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3β in Alzheimer’s Disease, with Implications in Drug Design
Authors: Mieco Namba Adriana , Henrique Tomich de Paula da Silva Carlos
Published: March 2011

The main neuropathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the accumulation of aberrant
hyperphosphorylated microtubule-associated protein tau, forming the intracellular neurofibrillary tangles and the
extracellular deposits of β-amilóide peptide (βA). Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β (GSK-3β), a serine/threonine
kinase, has emerged as one of the most attractive therapeutic targets for the treatment of AD. This enzyme has
been linked to all the primary abnormalities associated with Alzheimer’s disease, including hyperphosphorylation
of the microtubule-associated protein tau, which contributes to the formation of neurofibrillary tangles, and its
interactions with others Alzheimer’s disease-associated proteins. Thus, the significant role of GSK-3β in essential
events in the pathogenesis of AD makes this kinase an attractive therapeutic target for neurological disorders.
This chapter explores the nature and the structure of this promising enzyme, focusing on the structure-based
design of new GSK-3β inhibitors.
Landau-Zener Phenomenon on a Double of Weakly Interacting Quasi- 2d Lattices
Authors: Bagraev N. , Martin G. , Pavlov B.
Published: March 2011

The dynamics of a single electron is considered on a periodic square lattice constructed
of rhomboidal quantum wells interacting via narrow links. The spectral structure
of bands and gaps of the lattice is derived from an accurate analysis of Bloch waves, based
on DN- maps of the quantum wells. For periodic lattice with rhomboidal periods, a solvable
model, is constructed based on a rational approximation of DN- maps of the quantum
wells by establishing a communication between them via partial boundary conditions emulating
the covalent bonds. In the case of the corresponding double periodic lattice, the weak
interaction of the two parallel periodic quasi-2d sub-lattices defines, due to the 2d Landau-
Zener effect, a high mobility of the corresponding charge carriers in certain direction on the
quasi-momenta plane.
Application of the Lasso to Expression Quantitative Trait Loci Mapping
Authors: Brown Andrew Anand , Richardson Sylvia , Whittaker John
Published: March 2011

Univariate methods have frequently been used to discover Quantitative Trait Loci for gene expression measurements, often with much success. However, correlations caused by Linkage Disequilibrium as well as chance correlations, which are functions of the large number of markers typically used in such studies, mean that causative regions can often cause multiple signals. Traditional investigations into the number of QTL for a given phenotype, such as visual inspection of likelihood plots, are not feasible when considering thousands of phenotypes. Stepwise methods have been suggested to counter this, but these are known to produce unstable models and there are difficulties in deriving significance estimates. The Lasso is a shrinkage method which has often been employed to discover true signals when the number of variables exceeds the number of observations. We propose a test statistic based on the threshold at which variables enter the Lasso model, prove analytic properties of this statistic which demonstrate parallels with univariate methods and demonstrate its utility in proposing candidate QTL. We show that this method controls for LD structure, and the estimates of statistical significance produced have superior properties when compared to those derived by stepwise methods. We study the performance of our method using simulation studies. These simulations find that the ratio of true discoveries to false positives is often superior for our method compared to univariate and stepwise approaches. Finally, we apply the derived method to data from a previous eQTL mapping experiment to investigate the nature of genetic regulation in this population.
Comment on DeLong: The Pain Has a Purpose, Namely, Higher Profits
Authors: Bergmann Barbara R.
Published: March 2011

Barbara Bergmann of the University of Maryland and American University provides a political economy hypothesis to explain Brad Delong's mystery: The pain has a purpose, namely, higher profits.
Impact of management practices on Italian ryegrass seed quality
Authors: Simic Aleksandar , Vuckovic Savo , Cupina Branko , Krstic Djordje , Stanisavljevic Rade , Milivojevic Marija
Published: March 2011

Thousand-seed weight and total germination from the first production year and
two seed harvests were measured in tetraploid Italian ryegrass (cv.
Tetraflorum) to study variations in seed quality. Four-year field experiments
were carried out (2002-2006) in western Serbia and Italian ryegrass was
established with three row spacings (20, 40 and 60 cm), four seeding rates
(5, 10, 15 and 20 kg ha-1) and using four spring nitrogen rates (0, 50, 100
and 150 kg ha-1). High seed quality was obtained, except for the first
experimental year (2003) and the second seed harvests which yielded the seed
of unsatisfactory quality and validity. Applied factors and treatments did
not change seed quality significantly unlike environmental conditions of
production years which had considerable influence on seed quality.
The use of river hopper barges as facilities for aquaculture: The growth characteristics of carp (Cyprinus carpio) depending on stocking density
Authors: Skoric Stefan , Mickovic Branislav , Regner Slobodan , Visnjic-Jeftic Zeljka , Hegedis Aleksandar
Published: March 2011

Carps (Cyprinus carpio) were farmed on a river hopper barge at two stocking
densities, 10 and 20 individuals per m3. A comparison of average weights,
specific growth rates and weight distributions was performed. The obtained
results show that there was no statistically significant difference in any of
the parameters studied with regard to stocking density.
Assessment of different sorbents efficiency for solid phase extraction of aquatic humic acids
Authors: Roba Carmen , Jimenez Cristina , Baciu Călin , Beldean-Galea Simion , Levei Erika , Cordoš Emil
Published: March 2011

In the present study, a simple procedure for the isolation by solid-phase extraction (SPE) and quantification by UV-Vis spectrometry (400 nm) of the humic acids (HAs) in the natural waters was developed. Seven different sorbents: Porapak P (polystyrene-divinylbenzene copolymer), Florisil (chemical composition: 84.0% SiO2, 15.5% MgO and 0.5% Na2SO4), Silica gel C18 (octadecyl silane), Strata X (surface modified polystyrene-divinylbenzene), Strata NH2 (silica-based trifunctional amino ligand), Strata SAX (silica-based trifunctional quaternary amine) and Strata C18-E (silica-based trifunctional C18 with hydrophobic end-capping of silanols) were tested. The HAs, adsorbed on SPE cartridges, were eluted using: NaOH (0.1 M), sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) (20 g L−1), and a 1:1 v/v mixture of SDS (20 g L−1) and NaOH (0.1 M). The extraction efficiency was evaluated by comparing the HAs recovery levels. The repeatability of results was estimated by the relative standard deviation (RSD). The data confirmed that Porapak P, Silica gel C18, Florisil, Strata NH2 and Strata X could be good alternatives for the traditional isolation of the aquatic HAs with XAD resin. The proposed method was applied for the determination of HAs in some waters sampled from the Western Romanian Plain. The content of HAs was correlated with the arsenic concentration and total organic carbon (TOC) level.
Characterization of CdSe quantum dots with bidentate ligands by capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Oszwałdowski Sławomir , Zawistowska-Gibuła Katarzyna , Roberts Kenneth
Published: April 2011

The CdSe quantum dots (QDs) with bidentate ligands: a-diimine (NN) and dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA) were synthesized and characterized by UV-Vis, particle size and capillary electrophoretic techniques. Two systems were analyzed: CdSe with one ligand (CdSe/ligand) and CdSe with two different ligands (CdSe//ligand1/ligand2), where ligand = α-diimine or DHLA. Hydrodynamic features of functionalized QDs were characterized by zone capillary electrophoretic (CZE), and particle size techniques and these methods were consistent. It was established that CZE, micellar (MEKC) and microemulsion (MEEKC) modes were suitable for separating charged CdSe QDs and that no peaks were obtained for QDs passivated with electrically neutral ligands. For CdSe QDs with neutral (NN) ligands, a preconcentration method with the use of a micellar plug was introduced for visualizing these QDs. A sharp peak representing neutral QDs was obtained within the zone of micellar plug of a non-ionic surfactant, Here, a ligand character used for CdSe modification and the type of the electrophoretic method applied were the determining factors for the QDs peak visualization. Moreover, examples of visualization of charged and neutral QDs on the same run were presented, and for this purpose, dual mechanism (separation/preconcentration) was proposed.
Quotients of peripherally continuous functions
Authors: Kosman Jolanta
Published: March 2011

We characterize the family of quotients of peripherally continuous functions. Moreover, we study cardinal invariants related to quotients in the case of peripherally continuous functions and the complement of this family.
Luminescence of silicon Dioxide — silica glass, α-quartz and stishovite
Authors: Trukhin Anatoly , Smits Krishjanis , Chikvaidze Georg , Dyuzheva Tatiana , Lityagina Ludmila
Published: March 2011

This paper compares the luminescence of different modifications of silicon dioxide — silica glass, α-quartz crystal and dense octahedron structured stishovite crystal. Under x-ray irradiation of pure silica glass and pure α-quartz crystal, only the luminescence of self-trapped exciton (STE) is detected, excitable only in the range of intrinsic absorption. No STE luminescence was detected in stishovite since, even though its luminescence is excitable below the optical gap, it could not be ascribed to a self-trapped exciton. Under ArF laser excitation of pure α-quartz crystal, luminescence of a self-trapped exciton was detected under two-photon excitation. In silica glass and stishovite mono crystal, we spectrally detected mutually similar luminescences under single-photon excitation of ArF laser. In silica glass, the luminescence of an oxygen deficient center is presented by the so-called twofold coordinated silicon center (L.N. Skuja et al., Solid State Commun. 50, 1069 (1984)). This center is modified with an unknown surrounding or localized states of silica glass (A.N. Trukhin et al., J. Non-Cryst. Solids 248, 40 (1999)). In stishovite, that same luminescence was ascribed to some defect existing after crystal growth. For α-quartz crystal, similar to silica and stishovite, luminescence could be obtained only by irradiation with a lattice damaging source such as a dense electron beam at a temperature below 80 K, as well as by neutron or -irradiation at 290 K.

In spite of a similarity in the luminescence of these three materials (silica glass, stishovite mono crystal and irradiated α-quartz crystal), there are differences that can be explained by the specific characteristics of these materials. In particular, the nature of luminescence excited in the transparency range of stishovite is ascribed to a defect existing in the crystal after-growth. A similarity between stishovite luminescence and that of oxygen-deficient silica glass and radiation induced luminescence of α-quartz crystal presumes a similar nature of the centers in those materials.
Multiconfiguration Dirac-Fock results for forbidden transitions in the 2p
4 configuration
Authors: Hu Feng , Yang Jiamin , Wang Chuanke , Jiang Gang , Zhao Xuefeng , Zang Huaping
Published: March 2011

Relativistic configuration interaction calculations with the inclusion of the Breit interaction, quantum electrodynamics and finite nuclear mass corrections have been carried out in the extended optimal level scheme using multiconfiguration Dirac-Fock wavefunctions on the forbidden transition probabilities for the 2p
4 ground state configuration of the oxygen isoelectronic sequence for 8 ⩽ Z ⩽ 42. Electric quadrupole and magnetic dipole transition probabilities are reported for transitions between several of these levels. Our results are compared with those from other theories and experiments. Our energy levels are in better agreement with experiment than other theories.
Daily and seasonal variation in the activity of potential vector mosquitoes
Authors: Šebesta Oldřich , Gelbič Ivan , Peško Juraj
Published: March 2011

In the course of season 2010 (May–September), three 2-day trappings of female mosquitoes were carried out at two sites in order to determine the daily activity of the common mosquito species (e.g. species from genus Culex, Aedes, Ochlerotatus, Anopheles, etc.) in the area. CDC light traps filled with CO2 and placed at a height of 1 m were used to trap individuals, and were sampled every 2 h. A total of 19,604 female mosquitoes from 20 identifiable species were trapped: 7,549 at Sedlec and 12,055 at Kančí obora. The activity of the major species of mosquitoes in South Moravia differed throughout the course of the day. Calamity species of the genus Aedes and Ochlerotatus remained active throughout the day and night, but with different course. Aedes vexans, Ae. cinereus, and Ae. rossicus were most active in the late afternoon and highly active for most of the night. Ochlerotatus sticticus was captured most often in the afternoon, and its abundance decreased rapidly before sunset. The activity of Oc. cantans s.l. (Oc. cantans + Oc. annulipes) females varied little during the day and night. The daily activity for the main vectors of West Nile virus, Culex pipiens and Cx. modestus, were totally different from that of other species. Cx. pipiens females showed significant night activity, while Cx. modestus was most active in the evening. Nighttime activity was also observed in female mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles.
Biology of Tetrix bolivari (Orthoptera: Tetrigidae)
Authors: Kočárek Petr , Holuša Jaroslav , Grucmanová Šárka , Musiolek David
Published: March 2011

The ecological requirements and biology of the Tetrigidae are almost unknown. The aim of the present work is to contribute to the knowledge of Tetrix bolivari, one of the least studied species of European Tetrigidae, by investigating its seasonal and daily activity, food biology, and vibratory communication. Adults of T. bolivari were found from March to September, with the greatest number of detections occurring between May and August. Based on the study of the daily activity patterns, most activities were positively correlated with temperature and negatively correlated with relative humidity. Detritus and mosses were the main components of the diet, with the most frequently consumed mosses being Bryum caespiticium and Bryum argenteum. Substrate-borne vibrational signals used in communication of T. bolivari are described here in detail for the first time. We distinguished four structural types of vibrational signals produced by males, including the signal produced by wing tremulation.
Spatial and temporal distribution of mineral nutrients and sugars throughout the lifespan of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. flower
Authors: Trivellini Alice , Ferrante Antonio , Vernieri Paolo , Carmassi Giulia , Serra Giovanni
Published: March 2011

Although the physiological and molecular mechanisms of flower development and senescence have been extensively investigated, a whole-flower partitioning study of mineral concentrations has not been carried out. In this work, the distribution of sucrose, total reducing sugars, dry and fresh weight and macro and micronutrients were analysed in Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. petals, stylestigma including stamens and ovary at different developmental stages (bud, open and senescent flowers). Total reducing sugars showed the highest value in petals of bud flowers, then fell during the later stages of flower development whereas sucrose showed the highest value in petals of senescent flowers. In petals, nitrogen and phosphorus content increased during flower opening, then nitrogen level decreased in senescent flowers. The calcium, phosphorus and boron concentrations were highest in ovary tissues whatever the developmental stage. Overall, the data presented suggests that the high level of total reducing sugars prior the onset of flower opening contributes to support petal cells expansion, while the high amount of sucrose at the time of petal wilting may be viewed as a result of senescence. Furthermore, this study discusses how the accumulation of particular mineral nutrients can be considered in a tissue specific manner for the activation of processes directly connected with reproduction.
Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of plants used in traditional Romanian herbal medicine
Authors: Spiridon Iuliana , Bodirlau Ruxanda , Teaca Carmen-Alice
Published: March 2011

A number of herbal plants from Romania widely used as natural food additives or for health promotion in traditional medicine were investigated for their antioxidant activity. Methanol extracts were obtained from plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family (lavender Lavandula angustifolia L.; lemon balm Melissa officinalis; sage Salvia officinalis; oregano Origanum vulgare L.; rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis L.; thyme Thymus vulgaris L.; mullein Verbascum phlomoides; mint Mentha longifolia), Clusiaceae family (St John’s wort Hypericum perforatum L.), and Compositae family (elecampane Inula helenium). Total phenolic concentration was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu phenol reagent method, while total flavonoids were measured using the aluminium chloride colorimetric method. Relationships between total antioxidant activity and composition of plant extracts were evaluated. Origanum vulgare extract showed the highest antioxidant activity and total phenolic content compared to the other plants extracts. A positive correlation was observed between total antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of the analyzed extracts.
An alternative synthetic process of p-acetaminobenzenesulfonyl chloride through combined chlorosulfonation by HClSO3 and PCl5
Authors: Tan Shiyu , Yang Yang , Luo Ziping , Zhao Shuo , Huang Dafu , Zhang Jun , Dong Lichun , Wang Gang
Published: March 2011

p-Aminobenzene sulfonamide (sulfanilamide, SN) is the simplest and most-used sulfonamide medicine. The key step of SN production via the commonly used chlorosulfonic acid routine is the synthesis of p-acetaminobenzenesulfonyl chloride (P-ASC). A large amount of HSO3Cl has to be used in the traditional process, which results in serious environmental problems. In this study, an alternative chlorosulfonic acid process to synthesize P-ASC was investigated by partially substituting HSO3Cl by PCl5 as the chlorination agent. Compared with the traditional process, the molar ratio of HSO3Cl to acetanilide (the main raw material) can be decreased from 4.96 to 2.1 using CCl4 as the diluent; also, addition of a small amount of NH4Cl was found to significantly increase the P-ASC yield. Operating conditions of the reaction were studied first by single-factor experiments and later by orthogonal experiments to obtain optimum operating conditions under which the P-ASC yield can reach as high as 86.3 %.
Zinc catalyst recycling in the preparation of (all-rac)-α-tocopherol from trimethylhydroquinone and isophytol
Authors: Gömöry Juraj , Králik Milan , Kaszonyi Alexander
Published: March 2011

Recycling of ZnCl2 as a catalyst in the cyclocondensation of trimethylhydroquinone and isophytol to all-rac-α-tocopherol was studied. ZnCl2 was recycled at over 98 % efficiency in required purity by repeated extraction of the reaction streams with water, followed by switching of solvent to butyl acetate and then back to water. Recycled ZnCl2 had no negative effect on the yield of all-rac-α-tocopherol (maintaining over 90 %) at nearly total conversion of isophytol and only a 3 % molar excess of trimethylhydroquinone.
Accuracy of three-point finite difference approximations for optical waveguides with step-wise refractive index discontinuities
Authors: Sujecki S.
Published: March 2011

A rigorous truncation error analysis of three-point finite difference approximations for optical waveguides with step-wise refractive index discontinuities is given. As the basis for the analysis we use the exact coefficients of the series that expresses the field value at a given finite difference node in terms of the field value and its derivatives at a neighbouring node. This series is applied to develop a rigorous formalism for the truncation error analysis of the three-point finite difference approximations used in the numerical modelling of light propagation in optical waveguides with step-wise discontinuities of the refractive index profile. The results show that the approximations reach O(h2) truncation error only asymptotically for sufficiently small values of the mesh size.
Determination of energy difference and width of minibands in GaAs/AlGaAs superlattices by using Fourier transform photoreflectance and photoluminescence
Authors: Motyka M. , Janiak F. , Misiewicz J. , Wasiak M. , Kosiel K. , Bugajski M.
Published: March 2011

In this work, Fourier transform photoreflectance (in a form of fast differential reflectance spectroscopy) has been used to study the interband optical transitions in molecular beam epitaxially grown GaAs/AlGaAs superlattices. The dependence of the measured features on the growth parameters (QW and barrier widths) has been studied. The minibands widths and energy differences between them have been obtained and matched to these coming from effective mass calculations. In addition, it has been shown that Fourier transform photoluminescence measurement might be used in the far infrared region (up to ∼15 μm) to the direct detection of the energies of intraband transitions between the electron minibands (subbands) in the superlattice and QW system.
The New Beginning
Authors: Editor The
Published: March 2011

DOI: 10.3126/jpn.v1i1.4437Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2011) Vol. 1
Fine needle aspiration cytology of palpable supraclavicular lymph nodes
Authors: Adhikari RC , Jha A , Sayami G , Shrestha G , Sharma SK
Published: March 2011

Background: Fine needle aspiration cytology as a first line of investigation has assumed importance in diagnosing a variety of disease process. The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic value of fine needle aspiration cytology in the evaluation of palpable supraclavicular lymph nodes. Materials and methods: This was a retrospective study of fine needle aspiration cytology of palpable supraclavicular lymph node done between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2009. Fine needle aspiration cytology was performed on 149 patients (49 cases at Om Hospital & Research Centre and 100 cases at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital). Results: The right supraclavicular lymph node was enlarged in 55% cases, while the left supraclavicular lymph node alone was palpable in 40.3% cases and in 7 of 149 (4.7%) cases, bilateral supraclavicular lymph nodes were palpable. Cytological diagnoses were categorized as reactive (8.7%), tuberculosis (41.6%), lymphoma (4.8%) and metastasis (44.9%). Of a total of 74 cases of malignancy, 90.5% were non-lymphoid and 9.5% were lymphoid (5 Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and 2 Hodgkin lymphoma). Of the 67 cases of metastatic disease, three major types of malignancy found in supraclavicular lymph nodes were Squamous cell carcinoma (28 cases), adenocarcinoma (21 cases) and others (small cell carcinoma, papillary thyroid carcinoma etc). Adenocarcinoma tended to metastasize to the left supraclavicular lymph node. Lung was the most common primary site (43.3%), followed by stomach, ovary, breast and larynx. However, in 28.4% cases, no primary site was found. Conclusion: The fine needle aspiration cytology can be used as a first line investigation in the evaluation of supraclavicular lymphadenopathy due to its low cost, simplicity and minimal invasiveness. Keywords: Supraclavicular lymph node; Fine needle aspiration cytology; Metastasis DOI: 10.3126/jpn.v1i1.4441 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2011) Vol.1, 8-12
Metastatic cutaneous and subcutaneous lesions: Analysis of cases diagnosed on fine needle aspiration cytology
Authors: Karki S , Pathak R , Manandhar U , Koirala S
Published: March 2011

Background: Cutaneous and subcutaneous metastasis from an underlying primary, indicates a dismal outcome for patients. It is appropriate to use fine needle aspiration cytology as a minimally invasive method for diagnosis. This study emphasises the role of fine needle aspiration cytology in diagnosing metastatic skin nodules. Materials and methods: This was a retrospective study in which the record of all patients subjected to fine needle aspiration cytology from April 2008 – Nov 2010 in the Department of Pathology, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, were reviewed. Of 5,927 patients, 19 cases diagnosed as metastatic skin lesions were included in the study. Results: Out of 19 patients with metastatic skin nodules, 9 patients had metastasis simultaneously with the primary and 8 cases were previously diagnosed. All metastases were from internal solid organ tumours with male to female ratio of 1.7:1. Lung carcinoma was the most common to metastasis in both sexes which included adenocarcinoma (5 cases) and squamous cell carcinoma (6 cases). Common sites for cutaneous/subcutaneous metastasis were the chest wall (9 cases) followed by abdomen (4 cases) and scalp (3 cases). Conclusion: Fine needle aspiration cytology can diagnose a variety of skin lesions which may be supportive in diagnosing a metastasis in cases with known primaries or it may offer a clue to underlying malignancy in unsuspected cases. Keywords: Fine needle aspiration; Cutaneous metastases DOI: 10.3126/jpn.v1i1.4449 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2011) Vol.1, 37-40
Study of gastrointestinal stromal tumors with c-kit immunostaining
Authors: Sigdel B , Vaidya S , KC Sabira
Published: March 2011

Background: Mutation of the C-KIT oncogene is the central event in gastrointestinal stromal tumors which are the most common mesenchymal tumors arising from the tubular gastrointestinal tract. Materials and Methods: A study was conducted in Patan hospital from April 2003 to May 2010. Mesenchymal tumors arising from the tubular gastrointestinal tract with the microscopic features suggesting gastrointestinal stromal tumor were included in the study. Results: A total of 22 cases were studied. The incidence was highest amongst the older age group (86.36%), than in younger people (13.63%). The tumor most commonly involved the small intestine (54.54%), followed by the stomach (36.36%). Most (59.09%) of the tumors were of huge size measuring >100 mm, and showed necrosis, hemorrhage and cystic degeneration. Mitotic activity was high (>5/50 high power fields) in 55% of the cases. Conclusion: C-KIT immunostaining showed positivity in 19 (86.36%) of the tumors in this study. Mutation of the C-KIT oncogene is seen in most of the gastrointestinal stromal tumors. Keywords: Gastrointestinal; Stromal tumors; C-KIT oncogene DOI: 10.3126/jpn.v1i1.4450 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2011) Vol.1, 41-44
Anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid - clinicomorphological spectrum and review of literature
Authors: Ghosh A , Nepal N , Gharti MD , Basnet S , Baxi M , Talwar OP
Published: March 2011

Background: Thyroid cancer is fairly common. The worldwide annual incidence ranges from 0.5 to 10 cases per 100,000 people. Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, comprising less than 10% of all thyroid carcinomas, remains one of the most virulent of all cancers in humans with a 10 year survival rate of only 0.1 %. In the present study we looked into the clinical, cytological and histological spectrum of anaplastic carcinoma and compared our experience with recent literature. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital based retrospective study from January 2000 to November 2010. Clinical, cytological and histopathological data of all the diagnosed anaplastic thyroid carcinoma cases were reviewed and analyzed. Results: Of the 59 thyroid malignancies diagnosed in the same period, 7 cases were anaplastic carcinoma. The mean age was 63 years and was predominantly found in females. All of the cases presented with a neck mass that lasted for a mean of 5.7 months. The mean tumor size was 14.9 cm and the most common sub-type was the spindle cell type. Atypical mitosis of more than 5 per high power field and necrosis was noted in all cases. Conclusion: Due to the markedly aggressive nature of this tumor and its association with areas of endemic thyroid disease, early diagnosis and aggressive therapy is essential, especially in the Himalayan and Sub-Himalayan belt. Keywords: Anaplastic carcinoma; Thyroid carcinoma; Spindle cell variant DOI: 10.3126/jpn.v1i1.4451 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2011) Vol.1, 45-48
Light chain deposition disease in kidney: A review of the literature
Authors: Pant AD , Solez K
Published: March 2011

Light chain deposition disease is a rather uncommon monoclonal gammopathy with predominantly renal manifestations with presence of monoclonal light chains in serum and urine. It usually occurs in elderly male patients but can have a wide age range. Patients usually present with proteinuria and some renal dysfunction, but other organs like the liver and heart may also be involved and lead to the death of the patient. The survival of the patients is only about 18 months and benefit of renal transplantation in these patients is debatable, because of high chances of recurrence. Typical light microscopic diagnostic features are important to recognize this disease, which include mesangial nodules and thickening of tubular and glomerular basement membranes. Immunofluorescence shows a monoclonal pattern for kappa light chain, or much less commonly lambda light chain. Electron microscopy is further invaluable in identifying the granular deposits in the mesangial nodules and basement membranes. Keywords: Light chain deposition disease; Renal failure; Plasma cell dyscrasia; Immunofluroescence; Electron microscopy DOI: 10.3126/jpn.v1i1.4454 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2011) Vol.1, 56-59
Histological assessment of the effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on conventional high grade osteosarcoma of the long bones
Authors: Thapa JB
Published: March 2011

A multidisciplinary team of an orthopaedic surgeon, medical oncologist, radiologist and pathologist was involved in the management of osteosarcoma cases. Four cases of osteosarcoma were examined for the effects of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Total histological mapping was done to study the postchemotherapy biopsies. Two cases were good responders (more than 90% response), and two cases were poor responders (less than 90% response). Good responders had limb sparing surgery performed on them. Long term follow up results are awaited. Keywords: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy; Osteosarcoma; Total histological mapping; Tumour response DOI: 10.3126/jpn.v1i1.4455 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2011) Vol.1, 60-62
Glomus tumor of uncertain malignant potential
Authors: Baral R , Limbu H
Published: March 2011

Glomus tumors closely resemble the normal glomus body and have a predilection for skin and subcutaneous tissue. Clinically, Glomus tumors are present on the nail bed and are of less than 1 cm. We report a case of a male who presented with a 3 month history of swelling in the left thumb which was mildly tender. The swelling measured 6 x 6.5 cm. On microscopy the tumor showed mild atypia with increased mitotic activity. These features, by current definition, would suggest uncertain malignant potential. Keywords: Glomus tumor; Glomangioma; Merkel cell carcinoma.DOI: 10.3126/jpn.v1i1.4457 Journal of Pathology of Nepal (2011) Vol.1, 66-68
The God of Life and the Spirit of Life: The Social and Political Dimension of Life in the Spirit
Authors: Rodríguez Darío López
Published: March 2011

In this work, the social and political dimensions of life in the Spirit are examined, starting with the premise that God requires that the churches which are energised by the Spirit be defenders of human dignity. The basic premise of our theological reflection is that the defense of human dignity and the struggle for social justice are two legitimate forms of living in the Spirit, and concrete expressions of the social and political dimensions of Christian holiness which is modeled by the Spirit of life. We affirm that the God of life is the God who loves and defends life, and liberates human beings from all oppression. In this sense, for Pentecostals who have been liberated by God from the chains of oppression, it should not be strange that they be involved in the defense of the dignity of all human beings as God's creations. This is a concrete form of living in the Spirit, and for this reason, they must denounce all forms of personal, social and structural sin.
Man of God Prophesy Unto Me: The Prophetic Phenomenon in African Christianity
Authors: Omenyo Cephas N.
Published: March 2011

One of the features of African primal religions that has stood the test of time is the practice of seeking the cause of evil occurrences, power to deal with it or to avert any future reoccurrence and the search for one's destiny through divination which has been designated ‘prophetism’ in Christianity. The African Indigenous Churches were the first to build the bridge between primal religion and African Christianity by appropriating resources from the gospel to deal with this typical African religious practice. This essay looks at the phenomenon in primal religion, African Indigenous Churches (AICs), the older or Classical Pentecostalism, and contemporary Pentecostal movements. One can establish a continuum from primal religion to the current renewal movements with regards to prophetism, due to the deep-seated quest of the phenomenon in African worldview, which indeed was predicted by Professor C. G. Baëta, Ghana's foremost distinguished scholar who studied the phenomenon more than four decades ago.
Gifted for Change: The Evolving Vision for Tongues, Prophecy, and Other Charisms in American Pentecostal Churches
Authors: Dodson Jacob D.
Published: March 2011

Over the past few decades many Pentecostal churches in the United States have experienced a decrease in the practices of prophecy and speaking in tongues during public worship. This article will explore how this change has taken place and why it matters to American Pentecostals. Three major trajectories will emerge in the discussion including: the changing self-identity of Pentecostals, the relations Pentecostals share with other Christian traditions, and Pentecostal efforts to reach out to a variety of groups. The thesis of this article is that the apparent declining interest in prophecy and speaking in tongues in America Pentecostal churches is misleading because it does not adequately acknowledge ecumenical developments in the broader Pentecostal theology of charismatic gifts. Many new approaches reexamine the roles of ordinary charisms, communal boundaries, non-Pentecostals, and those with intellectual disabilities. This shift in thinking has potential to reorient the larger tradition toward its ecumenical, interracial, and intercultural foundations.
Edinburgh and World Christianity
Authors: Stanley Brian
Published: March 2011

In his inaugural lecture as Professor of World Christianity at the University of Edinburgh, Professor Stanley discusses three individuals connected to Edinburgh who have major symbolic or actual significance for the development of world Christianity over the last 150 years. Tiyo Soga (1829–71) studied in Edinburgh for the ministry of the United Presbyterian Church, and became the first black South African to be ordained into the Christian ministry. His Edinburgh theological training helped to form his keen sense of the dignity and divine destiny of the African race. Yun Chi'ho (1865–1945) was the sole Korean delegate at the World Missionary Conference held in Edinburgh in 1910. His political career illustrates the ambiguities of the connection that developed between Christianity and Korean nationalism under Japanese colonial rule. John Alexander Dowie (1847–1907) was a native of Edinburgh and a student of the University of Edinburgh who went on to found a utopian Christian community near Chicago – ‘Zion City’. This community and Dowie's teachings on the healing power of Christ were formative in the origins of Pentecostal varieties of Christianity in both southern and West Africa.